A new book aimed at supporting the self-employed sector has been launched at The Brehon Hotel in Killarney, with all proceeds being donated to the Kerry Mental Health Association.

The book, titled “Self-Employed: The Forgotten Community”, is written by Tralee-based author and Valentia Island native Dan O’Donoghue.

It addresses the specific pressures of working for yourself and provides practical guidance on how to run a business without letting it compromise personal wellbeing.

The publication challenges standard business mentalities by highlighting the mental health realities faced by independent operators.

“The self-employed employ most of the workforce, yet because we don’t shout, protest or complain, we are often the ones left alone,” Mr O’Donoghue said at the launch.

He added that the book contains real-world lessons focused on the importance of staying active, connecting with others, getting enough sleep, and asking for help.

John Drummey, General Manager of the Kerry Mental Health Association, attended the event to endorse the book and accept the donation of the proceeds.

He noted that while working for oneself offers freedom, it also brings unique and often invisible pressures.

He welcomed the book as a resource that acknowledges the link between business ambition and personal vulnerability.

Published by Orla Kelly Publications, the book is currently available to purchase online through the buythebook.ie platform for €20, plus postage and packaging.

Meentogues National School pupil wins regional Green-Schools award

A pupil from Meentogues National School was among the winners at the annual Uisce Éireann Green-Schools poster competition.

Julia Keane won the regional award in the primary school junior category. She received her prize at an awards ceremony held at Wood Quay in Dublin.
The competition received 1,600 entries from primary and secondary schools across the country. Students designed posters based on the theme ‘Water and Me / Mise agus Uisce’, focusing on moments when water has mattered to them.
As a regional winner, Julia received a €100 voucher, and her poster was professionally framed.
The event marked the 13th year of Uisce Éireann’s sponsorship of An Taisce’s Green-Schools programme. The initiative works with over 300 schools and 90,000 students on water conservation and environmental awareness.
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