26/6/2008
Birr Singer Songwriter To Play In Glastonbury

Famous Birr singer songwriter Mundy will be playing in Glastonbury this weekend.
  Mundy (aka Edmund Enright) will be performing on Friday the 27th of June at 1a.m. with Sharon Shannon on the Avalon Stage.
  The Glastonbury Festival of Contemporary Performing Arts is the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world. It's best known for its contemporary music, but also features dance, comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret and many other arts.
  In 2007 a staggering 700 acts played on over 80 stages and 177,000 people attended.
  Glastonbury was heavily influenced by hippie ethics and the free festival movement in the 1970s, especially the Isle of Wight Festival.
  Mundy first emerge into the spotlight when he was 20 years of age back in 1996, having spent the previous two years busking on the streets of Dublin, writing songs and showcasing them at the legendary open mic nights at the International Bar.
  He signed a contract with Sony Music, who released his debut album, Jellylegs, which received much acclaim.
  His third album, Raining Down Arrows, was released in 2004 and entered the Irish charts at number one.
  He is releasing a new single this Friday 'Fever' with all profits going to the Maetao Clinic and to help in other Burmese Humanitarian Aid projects.

26/6/2008
Birr Ordination Is Heart-Warming Service

Fergal O'Neill was ordained into the Diaconate by Most Rev Willie Walsh Bishop of Killaloe in St Brendan's Church, Birr on Saturday evening last.
  This was a heart-warming service which created an atmosphere that is the very embodiment of what Christianity is all about.
  Rev O'Neill is originally from Shannon, County Clare, is in his early 30s and has been living in Birr for the last nine months. He will be staying on in Birr until next December when he will be ordained priest.
  The diaconate is one of the three ordained offices in the Roman Catholic church, the other two being those of priest and of bishop.
  Deacons assist priests in their pastoral and administrative duties, but report directly to the bishop. They have a distinctive role in the liturgy, their main tasks being to proclaim the Gospel, preach, and assist in the administration of the Eucharist.
  It is generally believed that the office of deacon originated in the selection of seven men, among them Stephen, to assist with the charitable work of the early church as recorded in Acts 6.
  The diaconate is often a stepping stone on the way to becoming a priest.
  Rev O'Neill quoted Psalm 40, 'I waited, I waited for the Lord; he inclined to me and heard my cry. He put a new song in my mouth, A song of praise to our God.'
  Rev O'Neill offered his sincere thanks to all who had supported him on this journey. 'To my family for their love and support, their help and patience, who have always supported me in whatever choice I have made, and who have been a great source of strength, in faith and in life.
  'To the people of Shannon, for their kindness, generosity, support and prayers over the years.
  'To the people of Birr, for the warm welcome, kindness, generosity and for inviting me into your lives, your parish and your homes. Thank you all for making this day so memorable and for the work that went into the preparation. To St Brendan's & Carrig Choirs, Mr Gerry Dolan, to Mr Enda O'Connor, on the organ, to the Folk Group, 6th Class boys of St Brendan's Boys P.S., the three musicians; Stephen O'Sullivan, Yvonne O'Toole and Louise Smith, and to all who contributed in different ways.'
  Rev O'Neill also extended his gratitude to his many friends and relations, who have always stuck by him, to the priests of the Diocese of Killaloe, for their constant support, guidance and readiness to help and for their prayers.
  He extended a special thanks to the Shannon parish team, Frs Tom, Brendan, Arnold, and Sr Jo, for nurturing the seed and keeping it watered. He thanked Fr Tom Hogan for his direction and belief, encouragement and knowledge and never giving up on him.
  He thanked the parish team in Birr, Frs Tony, David, Michael and Pat 'for their welcome, trust, belief and the love you have shown me over the months, and the wisdom and experience you have shared in helping me prepare for this day and for priesthood.
  'And to Bishop Willie Walsh, for his support, kindness and belief, and for accepting me into the Diocese of Killaloe.'
  Rev O'Neill concluded by quoting a passage from Corinthians, 'The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.'
  The ordination began with an introduction by Martina O'Carroll and the opening hymn was 'Christ be our light.' The first reading was from Acts 6 and included the reference to Stephen. This was  read by Michael Donegan: 'Brothers, choose seven from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom...They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit.'
  Barbara Hanamy then beautifully sang Psalm 23 in Irish, 'Sé an Tiarna m'aoire, ní beidh aon ní de dhíth orm' ('The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want').
  Chanel Murphy read the second reading which was from Romans 12 which included the passage, 'We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man's gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach...if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.'
  Fintan O'Carroll sang the alleluia and the gospel reading was from Matthew 10 which was read out by Fr Tony Cahir, 'Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell...But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.'
  Following this the rite of ordination took place. Addressing Rev O'Neill Bishop Walsh said, 'By your own free choice you seek to enter the order of deacons. You shall exercise this ministry in the celibate state for celibacy is both a sign and a motive of pastoral charity, and a special source of spiritual fruitfulness in the world. By living in this state with total dedication, moved by a sincere love for Christ the Lord, you are consecrated to him in a new and special way.
  'By this consecration you will adhere more easily to Christ with an undivided heart; you will be more freely at the service of God and humankind, you will be more untrammeled in the ministry of Christian conversion and rebirth. By your life and character you will give witness to your brothers and sisters in faith that God must be loved above all else, and that it is he whom you serve in others.'
  Bishop Walsh also spoke of the importance of assisting the sick, poor, lonely and marginalised during one's diaconate. He commented that through baptism all of us share in the priesthood, but through ordination the priest / deacon has a fully participation in the work of Christ.
  He said that we are living in a time when the priesthood is in some difficulty and fewer young people are entering the priesthood. He said that some of Rev O'Neill's contemporaries may have said to him that embarking on the diaconate path was a difficult or even foolish decision, while others might be inspired by his courage in making this decision.
  The Bishop prayed that God may give his grace to Rev O'Neill in abundance.
  And he asked for the congregation's prayers for all the priests present 'that we may remain faithful to the priestly commitment. And I pray that the God of tenderness may be with you Fergal throughout your priestly journey and that you, and we all, may serve humankind with joy and love.'
  He also spoke of entering into 'the joy of Heaven' after one's death. 
  Rev O'Neill then went to the bishop and knelt before him. The Bishop laid his hands on the candidate's head, in silence.
  Following the rite of ordination a violinist played 'Gabriel's Oboe' from 'The Mission' by Ennio Morricone and Ciaran Cooney from St Brendan's Boys P.S. sang beautifully.
  Addressing the congregation at the end of the service Paddy Duffy commented, 'I am sure you are all loathe to leave the wonderful atmosphere that permeates the church on this wonderful occasion.' He offered 'our warmest congratulations' to Rev O'Neill whom he called an 'admirable person.'
  'Fergal has been with us since last September on the parish team and he has impressed with his enthusiasm and initiative. He has made a significant contribution to the life and work of the parish. He has become one of us.
  'Having worked with him for nine months I agree with what we heard during the rite of ordination, that he is indeed a worthy person to become a deacon.
  'In this materialistic world it is great to see a person put aside worldly considerations and dedicate himself to God and to the people. And I hope Fergal's decision to follow this path will inspire others to follow suit.'
  He said Rev O'Neill's parents, Noel and Dolores, were present in the church 'and the fact that Fergal is here today is I am sure due in no small way to your efforts, encouragement and prayers over the years.'
  Bishop Walsh complimented the musicians who performed during the service, the choir, organist and violinist. 'The music makers in this parish are continuing their wonderfully high standard.' He also offered a word of thanks to the priests of Birr parish 'for looking after and mentoring Fergal during the last nine months.'
  

26/6/2008
Fond Memories Recalled During Birr Vocational School's Reunion

There were fond memories and nostalgia during a past pupils reunion held in the County Arms Birr on Saturday evening last.
  Birr Vocational School, which formerly inhabited the currentday Outdoor Education Centre on Roscrea Road, closed its doors and was amalgamated into the new St Brendan's Community School in 1980.
  211 people including past pupils, partners and ten former teachers turned up for the meal and dance in the County Arms and a booklet was prepared for the occasion.
  Joanne Mann said the food provided by the hotel was excellent and music was performed by Silver Sands from Athlone. The night was a great success and no one wanted it to end. The dance floor was filled with many people really enjoying themselves and some stayed up 'til dawn reminiscing about their schooldays.
  In the booklet Chairman of the organising committee Joe Davis commented that 'Like many of you, during my school years, I have many happy and fond memories, which I will always cherish.
  'I would like to remember at this time and reflect and pray for all the deceased members of our teaching staff and students, many of whom would have been held in high esteem in our hearts and with fond memories.
  'With any event such as ours, we rely on sponsorship, and I thank everyone who contributed to make our reunion a success. I would like to say a special word of thanks to Conor Loughnane and his staff, for all his help and advice during the early days and the lead up to our event tonight.
  'I hope you all enjoy the night and take home only fond memories of our first reunion and hope many of you will keep in touch and hopefully we may meet again in the future.'
  Vice Chairman Michael Hough said he attended Birr Vocational School from 1964 to 1967 where he made many friends.
  Joanne Mann, secretary, attended from 1965 to 1968 and 'I have some very fond memories of my time there. My fondest and most memorable achievement was obtaining a scholarship to training school for the Hotel and Catering Industry, which I enjoyed immensely.'
  Billy Shaw, treasurer, commented that it didn't seem forty years since he was a student at Birr Vocational School. 'They say school days are the best days of your life - however, as you live through those days, you begin to wonder!
  'We have a variety of memories of our time spent in the school, of the subjects we enjoyed and hated, the games and outings (all too few) and the pranks.
  ' I, like so many others, cycled to school in all weathers - and left just as the new yellow school buses were provided. Those who cycled together enjoyed great companionship and fun.
  'We had many good times in Birr including buying sticky buns for three old pence from Annie Connors and banging a ball around at lunchtime.'
   He said his happiest memories were of the time he spent in the woodwork room and the skills learned there had proved invaluable.
  'As we get older we think of times past. Last year, I began to wonder where life had taken my school friends. A chance meeting with Mr McAteer and the word Reunion sprang to mind. Would it be possible? A photograph from Eileen King; a call to an enthusiastic Joe Davis, many nights of phone calls and it has happened.
  'So, to the committee, especially Joe, Joanne, Eugene, Michael S and Michael H, a great big thanks for making my dream come true.'
  Former Irish teacher in the Vocational School Michael McAteer also wrote a piece for the booklet which began by saying that he and his wife Bríd were very happy to receive the invitation to this reunion and they conveyed their best wishes to all present: 'Ta an-áthas orm féin agus ar mo bhean Bríd glacadh leis an gcuireadh a fuaireamar ó iar-scoláiri Scoil na gCeard i mBiorra. Táimid beirt thar-a-bheith buíoch diobh uilig.'
  Michael said he was born in July 1935 in Fanard County Donegal. He grew up in Donegal and his father was a native Irish speaker and his mother had no Irish at all. 'We went to an All-Irish school. When we wanted to discuss matters that my mother didn't want to hear, we turned to Irish. My father was a very humorous man.'
  Michael graduated from St Patrick's College, Maynooth in 1958 and John Hume, former MEP, Derry, graduated the same day. 'The changes that have occurred in Ireland since 1958 are just unbelievable.'
  Michael said he arrived by train in Birr on the 30th of November 1961 and has lived here ever since.
  'I have wonderful memories of Scoil na gCeard in Birr. There was no mart in Birr in the early sixties. I used to watch out the top window of the school at the droves of cattle being driven to the station to be put on the train. Just imagine what it would be like in this day and age trying to drive cattle through Birr to the old train station - other days - other times - other joys.
  'The Christmas Party in the Vocational School was indeed a wonderful occasion. I organised the raffle for the only prize - a lovely cake made by the Domestic Science Teacher. The enthusiasm for the selling of the tickets was really wonderful. On one occasion one student sold 50 books of tickets. Then on Party day, there was a concert held in the school. I certainly will never forget those occasions.'
  Dick Langford was a former principal of the school and began teaching in Birr Vocational School in 1963. He is now living in Cork and said Birr has held a special place in his heart down through the years and he felt about Birr the same way Phil Coulter felt about Derry, 'Where I learned about life and I found me a wife in the town I loved so well.'
  In Birr Dick said he was most fortunate to work under two excellent mentors, the Chief Executive Officer of County Offaly VEC, Denis McSweeney and Jack McGlone, the principal of the vocational school. Dick took over Jack's job when Jack moved to the Department of Education at the end of 1965.
  He said he was delighted to note that following his departure from Birr in 1970 the valued diverse traditions and practices of the three secondary and vocational schools that once existed in the town had been incorporated 'in the subsequent development of the Community School which is continuing to ensure that Birr is recognised as a beacon both in education and sporting terms.
  'This was due in no small measure to the efforts of the wonderful staffs of the three schools some of whom were colleagues of mine in the Vocational School while many of the others were collaborators in the joint developments referred to above.
  'My memories of the students I encountered during my time in Birr have always been happy and positive and I am quite sure this is not just as a result of my mellowing over the years. Discipline was never an issue and unsavoury incidents of any description seldom if ever arose.
  'Parental support and interest was invariably strong and this was a major factor in the great progress made by so many of the students in their later lives and careers. School life was not just about the immediate education issues. Days in Croke Park with the Offaly Vocational Schools hurling team were of course special but they were preceeded by those dark and wet February days in places such as Tullow as we took on the boys of Wexford and other teams.'

26/6/2008
Birr News Digest

Summer Programme Of Events At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  The Summer programme is now in circulation. Starting on Wednesday 25th June with Opera Theatre Company's Bastien & Bastienne (opera written by Mozart at the age of 12) and Emmy Award Winner Maestro Garcia (Spanish Guitar) on Sunday 29th June, the Summer is packed with summer camps for all ages, music, theatre, dance, film and lots more. Full details on www.birrtheatre.com or call the box office on (057) 9122911 for a programme.

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  The finals of the Inter Firms competition, which is once again kindly sponsored by The Sportsman's Dream, Nenagh, will be played this week. The presentation Barbecue will take place in The Chestnut on this Friday June 27th, when the Spring League prizes will also be presented. Tickets (€8) are available from your inter firms captain or from Mary Horan or Tory Baker. All are welcome. Please confirm your attendance with Tory of Mary as soon as possible for catering purposes.
  The club's Senior Open Week will take place from Sunday June 29th to Saturday July 5th. Entry forms are available in the clubhouse. Closing date for entries is this Wednesday June 25th. Hopefully it will be a good week with plenty of good tennis. All members are encouraged to enter.
  Membership for the year is now due. Membership fees have remained the same as last year, so provide very good value for money. Seniors €125, family €175.

Rambles in Eireann
  Sunday 6th July. Meet at 2.15pm at the bridge Clonaslee for a walk of about 4 kms around the district led by Richard Jack. Because of problems with both accommodation and transportation the annual week-end away planned for West Clare has had to be postponed until late October.
   
Birr Teen Summer Project
  West Offaly Partnership will be hosting a summer project in Birr for young people aged 12-16. Activities will include, swimming, juggling, 10 pin Bowling, canoeing, orienteering and a trip to the cinema. If you would like to register or find out more please come along to the West Offaly Partnership Offices, Bridge Street, Birr (Old E.S.B. Office) on Monday 30th June between 7.00p.m. & 7.30p.m. A parent or guardian must be present to sign the registration form. The project will take place in St. Brendan’s Community School from the 29th July-1st August, from 10.30a.m. each morning until 3.30p.m. each afternoon. The cost will be €10 per Young Person. For further information please contact M.J. Grogan (057) 9151622.

Phelan Mullan School of Irish Dancing
  The Phelan-Mullan School of Irish Dancing donated the proceeds of their recent Feis to Down Syndrome Offaly. Sincere thank you from all the members.

Birr Town Lotto
  The numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 9, 12, 25, 29. Bonus number was 19. No jackpot winner or no match three winner. Five names drawn won €40 each: Willie O'Grady, c/o Havertys, Pat Brien, Presentation Place, George Manzor, Syngefield, Ray Walsh, c/o PJ, Paul Johnson, Emmet St. Next week's jackpot €6,200 with bonus no €9,200. Draw takes place in Fighting Cocks Monday June 30th. Thanking all for continued support.

Birr Scouts
  The final event for the Cubs summer programme is the day trip to Roscrea and meetings will resume after the summer holidays. The highlight for the scouts programme is our annual camp which will be held 11th July to 17th July. This year we are going to Glenshelane scout camp site, Cappoquin, Co Waterford. The site lies beneath the southern slopes of the Knockmealdown mountains and is well wooded and very beautiful, especially along the Blackwater valley.
  To finalise the arrangements for annual camp a special meeting of parents will be held in the scout hall at 9p.m. on the 2nd of July next. It is important that parents who have boys going on annual camp attend the meeting as they will have to complete the forms for insurance, medical, etc. A final meeting for scouts going on camp will be held in the hall at 7.30p.m. on Wednesday the 9th of July.
  The work day for parents at the log cabin was held on the 6th of June and the leaders wish to place on record their thanks to the parents who turned up to help out with the repairs to the cabin. We wish to sincerely thank also the County Arms for their most generous contribution towards scouting in Birr which went to cover the costs of the refurbishment of the Log Cabin.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo: The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this week is €3,000 on 47 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling 8.30p.m. sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night on 12 games were Seamus O'Grady and Tom Ryan, second on 11 games were Kieran Hennessy and Eugene O'Connor, One pair had ten games Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan. The last game went to Michael Carroll and Ronnie Horan while the table prize was won by Tim Hough and Freda Tierney. Raffle prize winners were Colman Loughnane, Carmel Nugent and Liam Shanahan. Cards continue at 9p.m. sharp on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Birr Order of Malta
  The Birr Order of Malta are holding their churchgate collection this weekend 28th/29th June. Your support will be greatly appreciated.

Birr Methodist Church
  Rev Colin and Mrs Anita Gracie, Eleanor and Alex will be leaving Birr in early July to take up a new appointment in Dromore, Co Down. To mark their departure, there will be a farewell gathering, followed by a cup of tea, in Birr Methodist Church on Sunday 29th June at 7.30p.m. There is an open invitation to all who would like to attend.

Birr Mart
  Bullocks: 1 ch 595 €1,150, 3 sim 685 €1,250, 4fr 375 €590,  1 ch 605 €1,220, 1 ch 590 €1,110, 1 fr 635 €1,070, 1 ch 735 €1,345, 1 her 405 €780, 4 her 638 €1,135, 1 fr 555 €875, 1 ch 610 €1,125, 5 her 333 €650. Heifers: 1 aa 470 €850, 1 ch 585 €1,075, 1 her 525 €900, 1 aa 625 €1,210, 1 aa 455 €970, 1 ch 575 €1,145, 3 sim 442 €765, 1 her 635 €985, 1 fr 685 €1,265, 1 lim 540 €1,030. Dry cows: 1 fr 695 €1,105, 1 aa 750 €1,235, 1 fr 630 €990, 1 fr 795 €1,270, 1 sim 685 €995, 1 fr 620 €935. Next week 30th June at 12 noon - special entry of 20 weanlings - weaned and eating meals all lim / char.

Creative Writing
  Offaly Writers Group meet every fortnight, alternating between Birr and Tullamore. Anyone interested in writing, either for pleasure or publication, is very welcome to come along. In the coming month the group will meet in Tullamore Library on Thursday 17 July and in Birr Library on Wednesday 30th July. Meetings start at 7p.m.

Birr Chamber Of Commerce 
  At the May meeting of Birr Chamber of Commerce, a new retail committee was formed. Following this it has been decided to run a series of Full Page Advertising Features in the Midland Tribune. Any member wishing to participate in these adverts will be most welcome to do so. For details, please contact Birr Chamber of Commerce on (086) 0784632. 

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book is available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Cost only €20. Contact the church or parish office.

Birr Leisure Centre
  Aquafit  continuing Monday, Wednesday, 9.30p.m. Tuesday, Thursday 7.00p.m. Friday 11.00a.m.
  Children’s Swim Lessons Tuesday and Thursday 5.00p.m. Saturdays 10.00a.m. and 11.00a.m.
  Summer Intensive Lessons starting 7th July 10.00a.m. on a weekly basis until end of August  Booking is essential.
  Next set of Child and Adult Sunday Lessons starting 6th July for seven weeks
  Swim Club is finished for the Summer and will restart in September. A big thank you to coach M.J. Grogan.
  A Lifeguard course will take place on the week-end of Saturday 28th June.
  Gym Classes - Beginners Spin Class, Advanced Spin Class, Fitness Pilates, Circuit Training, Step Aerobics, Body Conditioning. Book at reception, or on (057) 9120343
  Treatments available Full Body Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Holistic Massage, Sports Injury, Sports Massage - booking essential.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Wednesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie . Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dog Show
  A Dog Show will be held on the grounds of Dunkerrin Church on Saturday 19th July at 2.30p.m. in aid of Dunkerrin Church of Ireland parish.
  Tea and home bakes will be served in a marquee on the Church grounds and there will be cake and miscellaneous stalls. Any contributions for these stalls will be greatly appreciated and can be left in the Church porch on the day or the day before the event.
  There will be Floral Displays in the Church in appreciation of our loyal canine friends.
  All are welcome, especially all breeds and sizes of dogs.

Cloughjordan Street Market
  This Saturday morning, June 28th, Cloughjordan Street Market will run from 10a.m. to 4p.m., while at the same time entertainment will be taking part for the Cloughjordan Festival. New stalls will be welcome. Contact Gillian on (0505) 47205.  
  The next street market will take place on Saturday 5th July and will be on the first and third Saturday of every month from then onwards.  

Belmont Fishing Club
  A meeting of Belmont Fishing Club will be held on Wednesday June 25th at 8p.m. in High Street Community Centre. For further details contact Noel (087) 6986391. All are welcome.

Geranne's Boutique Sale 
  Geranne's Boutique, Ferbane and Mountrath, sale starts Thursday June 26th at 12 noon. (Advert).
 
Ladies Charity Tractor Drive
  A Tractor Drive with women drivers only will be held at The Black Bull on Sunday 29th June at 5p.m. It is in aid of Birr hospice and it is the first ever event of its kind in Ireland. 
  The starting point is Birr at 2.30p.m.so if you are driving around the town look out for them. They finish at the Black Bull, Sharavogue at approx 5p.m. to 5.30p.m. It will be followed by a b-b-q and traditional musical session. All musicians and singers welcome, so come along for the craic.
  Sponsorship cards available from Geraldine Malone at The Black Bull (086) 0640374. All monies raised will go towards Birr Hospice Services. Please support generously.

Pilgrimage To Fatima
  Local pilgrimage to Fatima and surrounding shrines will take place from September 18th to 25th. Transport arranged to and from the airport. If interested contact Bridie at (057) 9133006 for further information.

Birr Travellers And Settled People's Group
  A meeting of Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group will take place on Thursday June 26th at 8p.m. in the Methodist Hall. All are welcome.

Legion Of Mary Pilgrimage
  The 57th Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on Sunday 13th July. The Pilgrimage will be led by Bishop Willie Walsh.
  Owing to the increased cost of diesel the fare has been increased to €20 for adults, €10 for one child with 2nd child free.
  Booking through usual outlets or from any Legion of Mary member.

Canoe Courses
  Shannon Adventure Canoeing - Proficiency 1 open canoe courses for children and adults starting soon. For details contact (0570 9151411 or (087) 1250731.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 14th of July. The book for this month is 'Restless' by William Boyd (chosen by Pauline). New members welcome. Enquiries - (057) 91 39028.

Youth Disco In Melba's
  The youth disco in Melba's Nite Club will start on Thursday the 26th of June and will run until the 7th of August. 8p.m. to 10p.m. Admission €5. All proceeds to Cystic Fibrosis Midlands. Mineral Bar only. Music by JD Roadshow.

Birr Tourist Information Office
  Birr Tourist Information Office is now open for the 2008 season. It is located in The Civic Buildings, Wilmer Road, Birr and is open from 9.30a.m. until 5.30p.m. Monday to Saturday inclusive. The Office is closed for lunch from 1p.m.– 2p.m. each day.
  For enquiries and information please contact Mary or Breda on (057) 9120110.
 
Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30p.m. to 3.30p.m.
  For more information please call (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

26/6/2008
Birr Tidy Towns 

In the coming week adjudicators will be carrying out an assessment of Birr Town in the National Tidy Towns competition.  We hope that Birr won't receive the same negative vibes as did the capital town of Offaly recently. The Council employees and the Tidy Towns group will endeavour to keep the town clean. 
  If people would clean outside their own house it would benefit the town. It is very frustrating to clean up areas on any given day, only to find similar rubbish discarded once again on our roads and footpaths. If the council employees or Tidy Towns personnel were unable to collect the rubbish, the town of Birr would be castigated. Everything is taken for granted. People in the tourism business are finding it difficult financially. These people spent substantial amounts of money providing accommodation of excellence and should be rewarded.
  On a brighter note thanks to Tony Murphy who has completed the sowing of flowers at the Chains, Mill Street, the Crescent, Moorpark plus installing the lovely hanging baskets on the streets of Birr.  Thanks to Eamon Kelly and Cluid Housing Association for disposing of the ten bags of rubbish at Scurragh recently.  Thanks also to Pat Dunphy, Joe Kerins, Dympna McIntosh for their recent work at the Crescent, and to Birr Tidy Towns Personnel Mary, John Lawlor, Judy O'Neill, Tony McLoughlin.
  In the coming days Council staff will be installing four additional litter bins.  Please place your rubbish in the bins.  

26/6/2008
Birr Skate Park Committee Formed

Another meeting for the Birr Skate Park Committee was held on Wednesday last.  The meeting was a great success as everyone was still very positive and helpful. 
   The favourite location for the proposed park so far has been Mill Island but has not been confirmed yet.  There will be another meeting on Thursday, 26th June at 8.30p.m. in Dooly's Hotel for anybody with suggestions/ideas. They would be delighted to have them on board.  
 Two fundraisers have been organised, the first is a Junior Table Quiz for the ages 10-15 years, which will be held in Dooly's Hotel at 7.30p.m., price per person is €5 and there are four people to a table. The second is a gig/disco. T-shirts will be on sale at the gig with the Skate Birr Logo for €10.
SK8 Birr Gig
  A SK8 Birr Fundraising gig has been organised by young people anxious to help the Skate Park committee.  At the public meeting in Dooly's Hotel last week the young people informed those present that they had decided to arrange a fundraising gig in the Marian Hall. The bands had been booked and they designed and distributed the attractive posters to promote the gig themselves.
  The SK 8 Birr Rock Gig will be held in the Marian Hall, Birr on Saturday night, June 28th at 8p.m. Doors open from 7.30p.m.  Bands confirmed to date include Last Drag, Anderson Mesa, Alcohology, Shadow Fault, Reaper, Downfull, Broken Down 666, December's Ashes and DJ for the night is Gary Smith. Admission is €10 and specifically designed T-shirts will be available on the night priced at €10. The bands are performing for free and all proceeds will go towards the provision of a skate park in Birr.  

26/6/2008
Birr Woman Named Midwife Of The Year In Australia

A Birr native has been named Midwife of the Year in the Northern Territories in Australia.
  Maureen (Mo) Davy is the eldest daughter of Major & Mrs Raymond Hoare, 5 Roscrea Road, Birr. She was educated by the Dominicans in Dublin and trained by the Sisters of the Cross, St Anthony's Cheam. She did her midwifery at King's College Hospital, London before moving to Australia.
  She has lived in Darwin since 1974 where she works at the Darwin Private Hospital. She work in the ante-natal, birthing and post-natal care department.
  Maureen was nominated for the Johnson & Johnson Midwife of the Year for the Northern Territories by Sarah Thomson, after she helped her with the homebirth of her daughter. In her nomination she described Maureen as 'awesome' and a 'credit to midwifery and to homebirthing'.
  'She's understanding, cares, knows her stuff inside and out, is supportive and has an absolute wealth of knowledge and everything she suggested works. I couldn't imagine homebirthing without her,' continued Sarah. 
 Maureen said the joy of motherhood was a wonderful experience and she enjoyed being part of it. 'You're welcoming a new person into the world and to be with a mother in her first experience is very special,' she said. 
  'I want to be doing this for as long as I am able. Midwifery is a journey you take with a woman, which is very special,' she added.

26/6/2008
Wolftrap Cycling Club

Billy Butler Cycle, Birr Sunday 29th June
  The 2008 Billy Butler Leisure Cycle will be run on Sunday 29th June, starting from Birr Rugby Club at 10a.m. (Registeration at 9.30a.m.).
  There will be three routes:
  45 km easy-pace, ideal for beginners.
  115 km on undulating terrain.
  125 km, as above, plus the Wolftrap climb.
  This is the third year the event has been run and they expect about 80 riders. Motorcycle marshals will patrol the route and showers are available at the finish, as well as tea, sandwiches and cakes at the Rugby Club.
  All welcome, you don't have to be in a cycling club to enter.

26/6/2008
'Sex And The City' Comes To Birr

Birr is all set to have two screenings of this year’s biggest hit, Sex and the City, on this Wednesday June 25th and Friday June 27th. This is happening thanks to Cinemobile – Ireland’s travelling Cinema – which is making a return visit to Birr just in time to give the ladies of Birr a chance to see this year's biggest blockbuster Sex and the City …. all without having to leave their own home town! 
  Carrie Bradshaw, successful author and everyone’s favourite fashion icon has made the move to the big screen, narrating her own story about sex, love and the fashion obsessed single women in New York City. The mobile cinema seats one hundred cinema goers, so be there early to get your seat.
  Cinemobile will also be screening Red Mist - the documentary that tells the story of Saipan, May 2002. 
  Few Irish people will ever forget the biggest ever bust-up in Irish soccer, when Roy Keane was sent packing from the Irish squad just nine days before the start of  the 2002 World Cup.
  As Marian Finucane said 'We got more contact on this, of people’s hurt and rage and anger and sadness and mourning than we did following 9/11. I mean can you believe that?' 
  Using animation to depict scenes from a typical Irish family during those turbulent times and with the assistance of Eamon Dunphy, Tommie Gorman, Marian Finucane and others, Red Mist is a hilarious documentary that captures the state of the nation during that unforgettable week. 
  Red Mist will be screened in the Cinemobile in Birr in the Maltings Car park at 6.30p.m. on Thursday 26th June.
  Based upon Marvel's iconic Super Hero, Iron Man tells the story of Tony Stark a billionaire industrialist and genius inventor who is kidnapped and forced to build a devastating weapon which he uses to fight against evil. Iron Man stars Robert Robert Downey Jr., Jeff Bridges and Gwyneth Paltrow and can be seen in the Cinemobile on Thursday night at 8.30p.m. 
  For younger audiences Cinemobile will also be screening the ever popular Alvin and the Chipmunks, Dr Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who!, and the lovely Scottish film The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep. Cinemobile is also screening the family adventure tale, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull. 
  Get on board the Cinemobile and enjoy the Hollywood experience in the place you call home.
  Cinemobile is a non profit making organization and a registered charity, funded by the Irish Film Board, Galway County Council, RTE, The Arts Council, and Northern Ireland Screen. Cinemobile is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Irish Film Institute.

26/6/2008
Emmy-Award Winner Maestro Garcia At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Experience Spanish Flamenco Garcia at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Sunday 29th June at 8p.m. 
  Featuring Emmy-award winner Maestro Garcia on Guitar; maestro Salvador Andrades on Guitar (over 40 recordings include the soundtrack of The Mask of Zorro); Jose Parra Vocalist (Vicente Amigo Lead singer), Lucas Gonzales on Cajon, Martin Deiton on Bass Guitar, and special guest the international flamenco dancer David Lozano.
  The internationally renowned guitar virtuoso Garcia returns with a vengeance, his superb style and renowned technique weaving a path between pure flamenco and fusion that departs from the flamenco tradition of theme and variations. Garcia, considered by some as a living legend, in a magical reunion evening not to be missed!
  €18/16.  8p.m. Box Office (057) 9122911. www.birrtheatre.com  .

26/6/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Congratulations
  Heartiest congratulations to Patrice Delaney on winning the Munster Under-18 Ladies Championship at Mallow Golf Club during the week. Patrice, who plays off a handicap of 5.5, has just completed her Junior Cert and has decided to concentrate on her golf for the summer. This week she plays in the Under-18 Connaught Ladies in Westport, where no doubt she will keep up the good work. We wish her every success and obviously the Delaney trophy cabinet will be in need of an extension before the season is out. Already this year she has been selected for the Irish Under-16 and Under-18 teams and has been in receipt of special coaching at the Irish Golf Academy. Her younger sister Emer has also been selected for coaching at The Heath. Great to see the Forelacka girls hitting the headlines.
For Your Diary
  Wednesday 25th June: Loughnane Sisters. 18-Hole Scotch Foursomes Stableford. 
  Thursday 26th June: 10.30a.m. Seniors. One draw only.
  Friday 27th June: 5.00p.m. Semi-Open Mixed. Shotgun start.
  Saturday 28th June: Ladies 18-Hole Stableford. Valerie Doyle qualifier. Sponsored by Cameo Beauty Parlour, Birr.
  Saturday 28th June: 3.00p.m. to 3.30p.m. and 5.00p.m. to 5.30p.m. Ladies v Boystown and 4.00p.m. to 4.45p.m. and 6.00p.m. to 6.30p.m. Tudenham Cup v Mount Temple
  Sunday 29th June: 3-Ball Scramble. 
  Monday 30th June: 10.30a.m. Juveniles.
  Wednesday 2nd July: Ladies Valerie Doyle qualifier.
  Sunday 6th July: Lady Members’ Prize.
  Sunday 6th July: 3.30p.m.-4.00p.m. Heineken Mixed v Portarlington. Three home. Four away.
  Friday 11th July: Declan Lowry Classic.
Results
  Lorrha and Dorrha GAA Classic: 1st John Yates, Jonathan Yates, Michael Yates, Liam Kirwan. 2nd Gemma Butler, Tony McTague, Bobby Ryland, Billy Donlon. 3rd Pascal Moran, Enda Moran, Liam Donoghue, Joey Morris. 4th Michael Stephens, Dick Johnston, John Wims, Coleman Loughnane. 5th Maura Flannery, Frieda Tierney, Aileen Watkins, Margaret Murphy. 6th  Fr. Foley,  John Gilmartin, Tom Duffy, Tom Nestor. Ladies nearest pin at 14th. Gemma Burler. Ladies’ longest drive at 16th. Frances Ashe. Men’s nearest pin at 3rd Bobby Ryland. Men’s longest drive at 16th Vincent Liffey. 
  LMC Seniors Alliance at Roscrea Golf Club on June 12th, Captain’s (Mr. Philip Kennedy) Prize Winner: Jim McLoughney (12) Thurles 49 pts. Cat. A. 1. Paul Donoghue (21) Mountrath 40 pts; 2. Tony McTague (12) Birr 39 pts. 3. T.J. O’Callaghan (27) Portumna 37 pts. Cat. B. 1. Michael Varley (13) Nenagh 38 pts ; 2. Tim McGillicuddy (14) East Clare 38 pts; 3. Noel Finneran (12) Ballinasloe 38 pts. Cat. C: 1. William O’Grady (16) Thurles 39 pts, 2. Des Clarke (17) Portumna 38 pts; 3. Des Browne (19) The Heath 38 pts. Gross: Billy Donlon (2) Birr 34 pts. Next outing at Templemore Golf Club on Thursday June 26th.  
Ladies Golf 
  The Ladies continued the season with another great week in the AA Sponsored Inter- Club matches. On Monday 9th June the Minor Cup team scored a most convincing win over Cill Dara to reach the Semi-finals v Boystown. Margot Regan and Aileen Watkins held both home matches, while away in Cill Dara Lady Vice-Captain Mary Sullivan, Rita Delaney and Dor Dempsey had brought in two more with the fifth match called in when looking confident. 
  Congratulations are also in order to the Boyne Trophy Team led by Captain/Manager Mary Grennan. On Thursday at Home Mary Sullivan & Kathleen Doorley, Mary Ryan & Marie Tooher and Gemma Butler & Maura Flannery as well as the Away players – Ena Guilfoyle & Rita Delaney and Martina O’Brien & Aileen Watkins beat Carlow.
  Ladies participation in Mr President’s day took the form of a 9-hole Stableford Competition on Sunday evening; this was won by Yvonne Boland with 23 points; 2nd Jo Conniffe (20 points) & 3rd Carmel Ryan also on 20 points. Ladies also presented outstanding prizes before Mr President Michael Liffey’s evening began in earnest. The recent Allied Irish Bank medal was won by Yvonne Boland; 2nd Margaret Murphy; Gross Sheila Brennan; 3rd June Carroll.   
  Allure Beauty salon in Banagher sponsored competition: 1st Georgina Chambers, 2nd Liz Nolan & 3rd. Maura Flannery.  
  Monaincha Spa in Roscrea – this prize of pampering won by Liz Pardy, 2nd Mary Lonergan, 3rd M Spollen.   
  18-hole Club Competition on 7 & 11 June: 1st Tory Baker; 2nd Mary Bolger. 
  9-hole running V par Competition: 1st Liz Nolan, 2nd Maura Flannery & 3rd Aileen Watkins.   
  Congratulations to all winners and sincere thanks to our generous sponsors. Cathal McIntyre’s competition is being played this coming Wednesday (Stableford) and the Loughnane Sisters’ prize is scheduled for Wednesday 25th (timesheet). Watch the notice board.
  Evelyn Lynch’s Senior Foursome team won one of their three matches against Tullamore and now have the return match next Thursday 26th June. Good luck to all – they will be trying to win all three matches this time to ensure a place in the regional final.
Junior Golf 
  Junior golf takes place each Monday at 10a.m. – all juveniles welcome.
Inter Club Matches. 
  Well done to our Barton Shield team who qualified to meet Kilkenny in the divisional final. Michael Horan/John Dwyer and Billy Donlon/Declan Gath had a one-hole victory over a strong Carlow team in the semi-final.
  Best of luck to our Tudenham Cup team in their defence of the title under managers President Michael Liffey and Tony McTague in their match against Mount Temple on Saturday. Playing at home are: Michael Yates/Jonathan Kelly and Seamie Breen/Albert Kelly. Away are: Billy Donlon/Tom Wright, Roger Byrne/Pat Madden and Robbie Sheils/K.P.Kelly
Austin Gleeson Mixed
  The finalists for the Austin Gleeson Mixed are now known. Kay Kelly and Tim Kenny will play Maura Flannery and Pat Molloy in the final for the coveted trophy in memory of Austin, a loyal and dedicated member of our Club for many years. 
Sympathy
  The members extend deepest sympathy to Mary Duffy and her family on the death of her brother Tim Moloney in Spanish Point recently. Also to Jo Graham and her family on the recent death of her brother Michael Lyons in Monivea, Athenry.

26/6/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Feile Weekend
  Last weekend saw the Feile take place in Laois/Offaly and Birr Camogie Club were host club to Loughlene Gaels from Westmeath. T\hey arrived on Friday and we played them in St Brendan's Park in lovely sunshine. Birr girls tried hard but our visiting team were much stronger and went on to qualify from our group with wins over Drumcullen and Celbridge on Saturday in such terrible weather conditions.
  Birr club would like to thank the Drumcullen club for the excellent reception for the club players, management and parents on Saturday. They took care of every person from Birr and Loughlene Gaels and it was very much appreciated by everybody. Birr didn't win any of their games but the girls had a great weekend and made lots of new friends which is much more important.
  The Gaels travelled to Camross on Saturday evening to play the semi final and, unfortunately, they lost by two points. They all returned to Birr and enjoyed a disco in the Marian Hall before retiring for the night.
  Many thanks to all the parents who took girls into their homes for the weekend and looked after them and for travelling to the games also. Thanks to Tony Morris, Midland Home Improvements for sponsoring jerseys for the team, Simon Whelahan for sponsoring socks, Mick Lyons for sponsoring shorts and Brian Stephens of Threads for the gear bags. This sponsorship is very much appreciated by the club, especially the players, and we hope that the parents will now support these business people in the town. 
  Special thanks to Eileen and Jackie Cahill, Camillus and Imelda King, Lyn and Emma, the two Marys and Siobhan and Frank Lennon for their extra help and to the ladies who helped at the catering on Friday afternoon, Jim Lynch who cleaned playing gear at very short notice on Saturday evening. It was a great weekend and the terrible weather on Saturday didn't bother the girls and we hope our visitors enjoyed their stay with us. Special thanks must go to Gail Spain the club's Feile Secretary who did all the organizing for the weekend. Well done Gail, it was great!!
  Feile Panel: Emer Grimes, Ria Harding, Aine Delahunt, Lisa Maher, Dawn Whelahan, Rebecca Kinsella, Ravina Murdock, Nadia Feehan, Fiona Guinan, Jessica Spain, Hannah McLoughlin, Sarah Lyons, Lara Brady, Ciara Doran, Emer Teehan, Ailbhe Kenny, Roisin Watkins, Aoife Joyce, Ciara Ryan, Emer McMahon, Rachel Spain, Jane Bracken, Rebecca Corrigan, Serena Murphy, Gillian Irwin, Amelia Field.

19/6/2008
Birr Area Loses One Seat In Boundary Changes

Shock changes are to be made in the boundaries in advance of next year's local elections, the 'Tribune' has learned.
  The Birr Electoral Area is to lose one of its five seats and the Edenderry Electoral Area is to be expanded from a five-seater to a six-seater.
  Geashill is being transferred from the Tullamore Electoral Area to Edenderry, Killoughey is also being moved out of Tullamore, to Ferbane, and Banagher is shifting from the Birr Electoral Area to the Ferbane Electoral Area.
  The move of Killoughey from the Tullamore Electoral Area will cause huge problems for the two sitting councillors there, Danny Owens of Fianna Fail and Johnny Butterfield, an Independent councillor.
  The changes could also mean that seven councillors will have to fight for just four seats in the Ferbane Electoral Area.
  The Ferbane four-seater returned Tom Feighery, Eamonn Dooley (both Fianna Fail) and Connie Hanniffy and Marcella Corcoran-Kennedy (both Fine Gael) in 2004.
  But Banagher is the home base of Cllr Sinead Moylan-Ryan, and she successfully ran in the Birr Area four years ago.
  Cllr Butterfield, the long-serving member who was a victim of similar changes before, could also decide to switch to the Ferbane Area, as could Cllr Owens.
  Both the Killoughey councillors could also decide to take their chances in the restricted Tullamore Area but with their home hinterland not entitled to vote for them, they would face a huge challenge.
  The changes are being recommended to the Department of the Environment by the Boundary Commission.
  The commission is charged with making changes to the electoral boundaries on the basis of population shifts since the last census.
  The population of Tullamore has increased, hence the decision to cut away Killoughey and Geashill.
  The decision to expand Edenderry into a six-seater is also a reflection of the growing population in North Offaly.
  Most of the county's population growth has been in the Edenderry-Tullamore axis and the static nature of the population in Birr always meant there was a possibility it could lose a seat.

19/6/2008
St. Brendan's Primary School Achieves Second Green School Award

On Tuesday night last a very special event took place in St. Brendan's PS, Birr.  A large crowd of people came to the school, including parents, teachers, children and members of Birr Town Council, Deputy Olwyn Enright, TD, members of the Presentation and Mercy Communities and local clergy, representatives of Birr Lions and Offaly Co. Co environment section. The occasion was the raising of the school's second Green Flag.  
  The ceremony was performed by Councillor Tony McLoughlin, Birr TC. Mr McLoughlin praised the teachers in the school for working to raise the awareness of the pupils to the importance of caring for the environment. He said it was a great tribute to everyone involved to achieve a second flag as some schools struggled to get their first flag.
  He was particularly pleased to see Brother Nilus from the Presentation Brothers in the audience. He had been taught by him 60 years ago and felt very proud to have passed through this school. The influence of the Brothers had been huge in the town and the academic standards they had achieved had been enormous. This year it would be 130 years since they had first come and he was delighted that their connection with the town still continued.  
  Mr McLoughlin stressed how important it was that the children should be taught to respect the environment and praised the parents, teachers and pupils for their hard work. He said he was delighted to see St. Brendans PS still thriving and doing the work of education so well.  
  Mr Michael Donegan, the school Principal, thanked everyone for coming to the event. He spoke briefly about the work of the Green School Committee and said that it was made up of parents, pupils and children. Everyone had their role to play.  The flag had been won on the basis of the plan for dealing with litter and waste and the school had succeeded in reducing waste from five wheelie bins to less than two each week. This time the focus was on conserving energy. The school had installed a wood pellet heating boiler and tried to make everyone conscious about the conservation and proper use of energy. It was on the basis of their plan for this that the school had achieved the award.
  The second part of the event was the official opening of the school garden. Mr Donegan explained that before the Brothers left Moorpark Street they had donated a portion of the old monastery garden to the school. The school had set about converting this into an outdoor classroom so that the boys could experience nature at first hand. He thanked the many people who had helped with the project. 
  The project had been spearheaded by the Parents Association and he paid tribute to their support and dedication with this and all matters pertaining to the school. They had succeeded in raising €10,000 to get the work done and had succeeded with the help of 'Gardenia' in turning a neglected piece of ground into wonderland with a playground, climbing equipment, play sandpits, a water feature, raised beds and a potting table. There was also a decking area and a shed for tools.  One of the most charming features was the fact that three fine old apple trees remained from the brothers time and had been included in the plan. 
  Aine Brumell, the Chairperson of the Parents Association spoke on their behalf.  She thanked all those who had given sponsorship towards the project such as Birr Lions, Rigney-Dolphin and Company, Palace Kitchens as well as all those who donated plants. She thanked Mr Donegan and the BOM for being open to new ideas and being willing to take them on. She thanked the members of the Committee, especially Emer Dolphin Murray for the hard work and dedication she had put into the project. 
   Afterwards Brother Nilus formally cut the ribbon the garden gate and Fr. Tony Cahir, PP blessed the garden.
  The final part of the evening was a presentation to Fr. Michael Reddan, CC by Mrs Maria Donegan on behalf of the Green Schools' Committee. The money had been raised by recycling old mobile phones. Fr. Reddan accepted the cheque on behalf of Sr. Bosco of the Mercy Sisters in Nenagh and thanked the school and committee.  Sr. Bosco raised money for relief work in Kenya and he guaranteed everyone that there would be no wastage before the money would reach its destination.
  Afterwards all the children present were treated to minerals and crisps and the adults were given tea and coffee courtesy of the Parents' Association.

19/6/2008
Birr Skate Park Committee Formed

A meeting was held on the 12th of June and the Birr Skate Park committee was formed. The committee includes ten local people including Chairperson Ann Spain, Vice Chair Luke Garland, Secretary Aine Brummel, Joint treasurers Imelda Clarke, Fergal Clarke, PRO Majella Featherstonehaugh. The meeting had a great turn out and great progress has been made. The first fundraiser for the skate park has been organised, a tablequiz, and details will be given soon. 
  The committee has the full support of all the local councillors and the results look promising. We are very grateful for their support.
  A skate park is greatly needed in Birr for the many teenagers who are deprived of a safe facility. There is great interest in the town of Birr in skateboarding and a facility like this would attract many more people to the sport.
  The Birr Skate Park committee would greatly appreciate your support and suggestions.

19/6/2008
Birr News Digest

Summer Fete
A reminder that the Annual Summer Fete is being held at the Rectory on Thursday 19th June from 3p.m. There will be the usual attractions: Cake Stall, Household goods, White Elephants, Country Produce and Refreshments, Side Shows and raffles to test your skills and luck. There will fun for the children too, with face painting and games. After all that exertion, why not have some tea and chat! All welcome.   

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  Registration for the annual Kit Kat Parks Tennis programme will take place at the Wilmer Tennis Club clubhouse on this Saturday June 21st from 11a.m. to 1p.m. The coaching takes place on the week of Monday July 28th to Friday August 1st. Classes will be divided according to age and standard. There is a once off course fee of €30 which includes one year's membership of the club. If you don't have a raccquet or ball, they will be provided.
  The Inter Firms competition, which is once again kindly sponsored by The Sportsman's Dream, Nenagh, is reaching its concluding stages. The finals in both sections will be played next week. The presentation Barbecue will take place in The Chestnut on Friday June 27th, when the Spring League prizes will also be presented. Tickets (€8) are available from your inter firms captain or from Mary Horan or Tory Baker. All are welcome.
  Beginners nights take place on Tuesday nights at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  The club's Senior Open Week will take place from Sunday June 29th to Saturday July 5th. Entry forms are now available.
  Membership for the year is now due. Membership fees have remained the same as last year, so provide very good value for money. Seniors €125, family €175.

Birr Chamber Of Commerce 
  At the May meeting of Birr Chamber of Commerce, a new retail committee was formed. Following this it has been decided to run a series of Full Page Advertising Features in the Midland Tribune. Any member wishing to participate in these adverts will be most welcome to do so. For details, please contact Birr Chamber of Commerce on (086) 0784632. The first feature appears on Page 27 of this issue. Watch out for a further feature in a few weeks time.

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book is available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Cost only €20. Contact the church or parish office.

Birr Leisure Centre
  Aquafit  continuing Monday, Wednesday, 9.30p.m. Tuesday, Thursday 7.00p.m. Friday 11.00a.m.
  Children’s Swim Lessons Tuesday and Thursday 5.00p.m. Saturdays 10.00a.m. and 11.00a.m.
  Summer Intensive Lessons starting 7th July 10.00a.m. on a weekly basis until end of August  Booking is essential.
  Next set of Child and Adult Sunday Lessons starting 6th July for seven weeks
  Swim Club is finished for the Summer and will restart in September. A big thank you to coach M.J. Grogan.
  A Lifeguard course will take place on the week-end of Saturday 28th June.
  Gym Classes - Beginners Spin Class, Advanced Spin Class, Fitness Pilates, Circuit Training, Step Aerobics, Body Conditioning. Book at reception, or on (057) 9120343
  Treatments available Full Body Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Holistic Massage, Sports Injury, Sports Massage - booking essential.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  The July-September programme of events will be in circulation this week. Forthcoming events include Opera Theatre Company's Bastien & Bastienne on Wednesday 25th June at 8p.m. This 50 minute opera, written by Mozart when he was just twelve, is an ideal family night out. Emmy Award Winner, Maestro Garcia (Spanish guitar) is joined by Salvadore Andrades, Jose Para  and friends with guest flamenco dancer David Lozano on Sunday 29th June. 
  Summer camps include: Children's Theatre Summer Camp (Monday 7th-Friday 11th July); The Reel World (filmmaking course for young people), Tuesday 15th- Friday 25th July - one week courses for ages 12-18; Summer School of Rock (Tuesday 5th-Thursday 14th August) - two week of training in performing and writing your own music. Full details on www.birrtheatre.com  or at box office (057) 9122911.
 
GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Wednesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie . Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Birr Neighbourhood Watch
  Birr Neighbourhood Watch Meeting will be held in Dool'ys Hotel this Wednesday June 18th at 8p.m. All members are asked to attend. New Members are always very welcome to come along.

Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club held their final meeting before the break up for summer last Wednesday night. It was also their AGM. They would like to extend a big welcome to the new members that were elected on the night. The new committee for September 2008 is as follows: Chairperson: Denise Tooher. Vice Chairperson: Marie Marshall. Secretary: Fidelma Carroll. Asst Secretary: Bernie Lyons. PRO: Caroline Corboy. Asst PRO: Margaret Grant. Treasurer: Cathy McCormack. Asst Treasurer: Marian Nolan.
  After the business on the night was carried out, everyone enjoyed a glass of wine, tea - coffee and lovely sandwiches and cakes.
  The annual Gardening Summer Trip on Saturday 5th July, is fully booked, and they all look forward to their visit to Rathwood Home Gift & Garden World in Tullow, Co. Carlow.
  It was a very successful year for the club and they would like to thank everyone who made this possible.

Yogabeats In Banagher!
  Want to try a special, different and fun form of Yoga? David Sye, (former musician, and son of a famous singing star) is an internationally known Yoga Master. For the first time, he's coming to Southern Ireland - to the Midlands! Join in at Salann Na Talún, Holistic Teaching Centre & Treatment Centre, Banagher, Offaly.
Date: Saturday, 21st June, 2008. Times: 2-5pm. Cost €50. Some places still available - Bookings: Maureen: (087) 6741162 
  Yogabeats™ is an eclectic mix of yogic styles, designed to accommodate all levels of fitness and ability. No prior experience is needed; it's for beginners as well as yoga addicts. It combines classic yoga postures with the latest rhythmic and ambient World music. This style of Yoga 'engages all of your physical senses and provides a natural high and feelings of joy in the body. It creates tremendous vitality, balance and flexibility regardless of size, age or experience. More than just Yoga, it's pure fun. Unapologetically sexy, empowering and provocative, leaving you higher than a kite and flying for the rest of the week.' How can you resist that temptation? The location is lovely, peaceful and serene, at Salann na Talun in Coolfin House. All you have to do is bring your own yoga mat, enjoy and relax.

Childminder Coffee Morning
  Are you childminding or thinking of becoming a Childminder? Childminder Coffee morning will be held on Thursday 19th June at 10.30a.m. in Jumpin' Jacks, Tullamore. If you would like to attend please phone Fiona on (057)9370630 /(086) 8103958.

Ladies Charity Tractor Drive
  A Tractor Drive with women drivers only will be held at The Black Bull on Sunday 29th June at 5p.m. It is in aid of Birr hospice and it is the first ever event of its kind in Ireland. 
  The starting point is Birr at 2.30p.m.so if you are driving around the town look out for them. They finish at the Black Bull, Sharavogue at approx 5p.m. to 5.30p.m. It will be followed by a b-b-q and traditional musical session. All musicians and singers welcome, so come along for the craic.
  Sponsorship cards available from Geraldine Malone at The Black Bull (086) 0640374. All monies raised will go towards Birr Hospice Services. Please support generously.

Pattern Mass
  Mass on St John's Eve in old Drumcullen Cemetery at 7.30p.m. Guest speaker. All welcome.

Pilgrimage To Fatima
  Local pilgrimage to Fatima and surrounding shrines will take place from September 18th to 25th. Transport arranged to and from the airport. If interested contact Bridie at (057) 9133006 for further information.

Social Adult Dancing
  Shinrone social adult dancing in the Community Centre Shinrone on Saturday June 21st. Dancing 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Music by Unity. Light refreshments. All welcome.

Birr Travellers And Settled People's Group
  A meeting of Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group will take place on Thursday June 26th at 8p.m. in the Methodist Hall. All are welcome.

Ordination To The Diaconate
  On this Saturday June 21st at 7.30p.m. Bishop Willie Walsh will ordain Fergal O'Neill a deacon in St Brendan's Church, Birr. As this is a unique event in the life of the parish, all are welcome to go along.

Legion Of Mary Pilgrimage
  The 57th Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on Sunday 13th July. The Pilgrimage will be led by Bishop Willie Walsh.
  Owing to the increased cost of diesel the fare has been increased to €20 for adults, €10 for one child with 2nd child free.
  Booking through usual outlets or from any Legion of Mary member.


Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 9, 10, 19, 24. No jackpot winner and one match three winner Eugene Gleeson, c/o C&P. Next week's jackpot for €11,450 takes place in the Sunrise Inn. Thanks to Whelehans and everybody who supports the Club every week.

Highfield United AGM
  The Club's AGM will be held in Dooly's Hotel on Saturday, 21st June at 8.30p.m. All are welcome to attend.  

Birr Town Lotto 
  The numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town FC lotto were 11, 14, 18, 19 and bonus number 13. No jackpot winner and one match three winner receives €200 M.U.M, c/o Birr Town. Next week's jackpot is €6,000 with the bonus number €9,000. The draw is in the Sunrise Inn on Monday, June 23rd next. Thanking all for your continued support.

Clareen ICA
  The Guild are meeting on Monday nights as usual. The patchwork quilt is almost complete and will be raffled in September. The Offaly Federation is on the 24th June in Tullamore and is hosted by Clareen ICA Guild at 8pm.
  The Annual Day Trip which was already advertised did not draw much of a response so the members are discussing travelling to Bru Boru Concert in Cashel on perhaps the 24th July at 9p.m. They will be leaving early in the day and having a meal in the town. The cost of the concert is €18 and has to be paid in advance, so if there are people interested please let any member know. A very enjoyable night is assured. There will be further details next week. The bus is already booked and it is important that names and money be paid up promptly for the fare and the concert.
  The Bru Boru concerts run Tuesdays to Saturdays right through the Summer. The show is the same each night with the exception of the 14th July when the Morrisseys are appearing.  

Birr Mart
  Bullocks: CH 605, €1,130; 4 FR 563, €910; CH 465, €900; 5 FR 374, €595; CH 375, €730; 7 AA 605, €1,095; HER 555, €950; AA 690, €1,210; CH 405, €815; 5 LIM 544, €1,000, CH 420, €835; 2 LIM 460, €870.
 Heifers; AA 600, €1,185; 4 AA 520, €950; 2 SIM 375, €635; LIM 430, €800; LIM 535, €985; LIM 595, €1,135; 3 AA 470, €850; 2 SIM 343, €630; 4 HER 463, €815; CH 505, €985.
  Dry Cows; 2 FR 668, €950; BB 755, €1,315; FR 605, €845; FR 540, €565.
  Special Entry at Birr Mart  on Monday, 30th June of 20 Char/Lim Weanlings, weaned and eating meal.  

Citizens Information Office 
  The Citizen Information Office will be closed Tuesday 24th June for staff training.
  The Back to School Clothing & Footwear Allowance is designed to help meet the cost of uniforms and footwear for students in Ireland attending school. The allowance is provided by the HSE as part of the Supplementary Welfare Scheme. The scheme operates from the 1st June to 30th September each year. The application may be sought from the Citizens Information Office between 10a.m. and 2p.m. Monday to Friday.  Telephone (057) 91 21017 for more details.  

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won.  Calling as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp.
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was won on 11 games by Carmel Nugent and Michael Stephens. Second on 10 games were Chrissie Hogan & Ena Loughnane, two pairs had nine games Liam & Olivia White, Jack Bermingham & Mick Moran. The table prize was won by Jack Corrigan, Adie O'Donoghue while the last game went to Michael Carroll & Ramie Horan. Raffle prize winners were Jimmy Byrne, Carmel Nugent and Angela English.  Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games starting at 9p.m. sharp.  

Birr Vocational School Past Pupils Reunion
  Final preparations are now being made for our Reunion on Saturday, 21st June, 2008 being held in the County Arms Hotel. Anyone requiring tickets for the event must contact Billy Shaw on (087) 2738926 before Thursday, 19th June, 2008. Admission is strictly by ticket only.  

Birr Social Club  
  Banner Scratch Cup Snooker Tournament sponsored by C/C. Results; Alan Naylor bt Brian Stephens 2-0; Derek Kelly bt Gary King 2-0; Eddie Nevin bt Paul Hogan 2-0; Barry Kennedy bt Pat Dunphy 2-0. All remaining 1st Round matches to be played as soon as possible.
   The Golf Society will hold its away outing to Ballinasloe on Thursday, 26th June.  

Canoe Courses
  Shannon Adventure Canoeing - Proficiency 1 open canoe courses for children and adults starting soon. For details contact (0570 9151411 or (087) 1250731.

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations
  A Special Mass to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of well-known and popular Shinrone priest, Fr. Frank Bergin, will take place at St. Mary's Church, Shinrone on Wednesday 18th June at 7.30p.m. Mass will be followed by refreshments in the Community Centre. All are welcome to come along to this very special celebration.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 14th of July. The book for this month is 'Restless' by William Boyd (chosen by Pauline). New members welcome. Enquiries - (057) 91 39028.

Youth Disco In Melba's
  The youth disco in Melba's Nite Club will start on Thursday the 26th of June and will run until the 7th of August. 8p.m. to 10p.m. Admission €5. All proceeds to Cystic Fibrosis Midlands. Mineral Bar only. Music by JD Roadshow.

Birr Tourist Information Office
  Birr Tourist Information Office is now open for the 2008 season. It is located in The Civic Buildings, Wilmer Road, Birr and is open from 9.30a.m. until 5.30p.m. Monday to Saturday inclusive. The Office is closed for lunch from 1p.m.– 2p.m. each day.
  For enquiries and information please contact Mary or Breda on (057) 9120110.
 
Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30p.m. to 3.30p.m.
  For more information please call (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

19/6/2008
Ordination Of Killaloe Student To The Diaconate In Birr

Bishop Willie Walsh will ordain Fergal O’Neill to the Diaconate on Saturday 21st June 2008 at St. Brendan’s Church, Birr.
  Ordination to the Diaconate is one of the final steps a student takes on the journey to being ordained a priest. At next Saturday’s ceremony Bishop Walsh will ask Fergal to make a commitment to serve the Church as a deacon. In this role he will be able to preside over some of the sacramental ceremonies of the Church such as Baptism and Marriage. He will also be taking on a commitment to pray daily for and on behalf of the people of God and to assist the ministry of the Church in whatever duties he is given by the Bishop. Fergal will engage in this ministry as his final preparation for the commitment to Priesthood which he hopes to make within the coming year.
  Fergal is a native of Shannon Co. Clare. He is the son of Noel and Dolores O'Neill and the brother of Declan and Sharon. He was educated in Shannon and completed his leaving certificate in 1990 at St. Patrick’s Comprehensive school. He qualified as a carpenter and while working in that trade began to investigate the possibility of following a call to priesthood. He began his journey towards priesthood with a religious order and later decided to apply to the Killaloe diocese in order to become a diocesan priest. Fergal continued his studies at St. Patrick’s College Maynooth and for the past year he has been engaged in pastoral work in the Parish of Birr as part of his training.
  Fergal is one of three students at present engaged in preparation for priesthood in the diocese of Killaloe. Gerard Jones from O’Brien’s Bridge, Co. Clare is studying at the Irish Pontifical College in Rome. Ger Fitzgerald from Castleconnell, Co. Limerick is studying at St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth.
 

19/6/2008
40th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival

The packed programme of events for the 40th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival is now being finalised. Any clubs, societies, venues or individuals who still wish to have an event included should forward details to the organisers as soon as possible. 
  The committee would like to thank most sincerely those sponsors who have sent their subscriptions to date. Without their generous support, the wide-ranging programme of events could not be put together. Any further sponsorship should be sent to Hon. Treasurer Dermot Maher, c/o Pharmacy Plus, Emmet Square as soon as possible to ensure inclusion on the Programme.
  The next committee meeting will take place next Tuesday, 24th June at 8.00pm in Dooly’s Hotel and all are welcome to attend. In view of the significance of this 40th anniversary, the committee wish to include commemorative material in the programme and are appealing to anyone who has old photographs (preferably with the year and names noted), newspaper articles, programmes, stories or anecdotes from previous Festivals to contact Brendan Fogarty on (086) 3051699 or to post them to Brendan at 3, Roscrea Road, Birr. All items will be returned if contact details are included. 
  It is hoped that this important anniversary year will see the biggest and best celebrations to date, however, as the Festival is entirely reliant on volunteers to help run events at all levels over the coming months and throughout the week itself, the Committee would like to hear from anyone interested in becoming involved in any aspect of the Festival. For further information on Fundraisers or the Festival itself, please contact (086) 8551937, info@birrvintageweek.com or check www.birrvintageweek.com.  

19/6/2008
Garden Sessions CD Raises €6,380 For Hospice

The Garden Sessions in aid of the Irish Hospice foundation has made a profit of €6,380, which were presented recently by Clodagh Fay. The costings of the album (with generously discounted rates) were approx €8,145.
  The Garden Sessions compilation was recorded in Birr in the summer of 2005, in conjunction with the Gardens Sessions festival held in The Chestnut and Ormond House (Enrights). The CD recorded musicians who were local and visiting, upcoming and established artists, who generously donated their performance at those garden sessions and were then whisked to Tullanisk House to record the album. 
  The double CD is still on sale on line and at The Chestnut for €15. All profits from the album sales go to the Irish Hospice Foundation.
  There are many people to thank for their help with the CD and hopefully are all mentioned below …if not sorry!! Clodagh extends a big thank you to everyone who made this album possible.
  Q, Nick Ward, Paul Glesson, Caelan Bristow, RMG – Seamus Carroll, Peter Kenny, Janine Nallen, Midlands Radio 3, Heartbeat City, Celtic Records, Mid Atlantic Duplications, Lizzie Gore-Grimes, Carolina Gustavsson, John Fay, Andrea Smith (PR) , Aengus Fanning (Sunday Independent), Brosna Press, Aine O Raghallaigh, Emma Ryan, Conor McGlone, Strephen De Forge, Emma Quearney,  Eoghan Scott, Midland Tribune, Tadgh Cooke, Keiron Black, Sandra O'Mahony, Matthew Devereux, Maggie McEntee, David Manzor, Christine Ellison and Eugene Murray (IHF), Dooly s Hotel, Jack & Elayne Devlin, Frank Conlon, Edward Conrad, Ronan O'Hare, Niall Fay, Grant Eng., Tom Parlon (OPW), J & E Hoctor and all the musicians featured on the album, and those who performed at instores in Tower Records and HMV Dublin, and at the St.Stephen's Green Bandstand Garden Sessions.
  Musicians featured on the album are as follows, Mundy, Tadgh Cooke, Fred, Q, The Pale, Ultan Conlon, Guggenheim Grotto, Joe Chester, Neosupervital, Eoghan Scott, Ann Scott, Stanley Super 800,
Cornerstone, Gavin Glass, Mark Geary, Sabrine Dinan, Ger Wolfe, Dana Donnelly & Philip D’Alton, Roesy, Brendan O'Shea, Freddie White, The Maladies, Alice Jago, Clive Barnes, Ian Whitty, Noelie McDonnell, Carol Koegh, Donal O’Mahony and Kim Porcelli.
  On  Sunday 6th July a BBQ fundraiser for the Offaly Hospice will take place in The Chestnut and all are welcome. It will include a bbq with Fuzzy on duty (burgers sponsored by Cullinane Butchers ), Music sponsored by EL Mush, and a magician / illusionist  at 6p.m. Kiddies drinks sponsored by Finches. Starting around 5pm!!!

19/6/2008
Birr Tidy Towns 

Civic spirit was very evident in the town of Birr last week. Thanks to the staff and management of Buckleys, Super-Valu who provided pickers and gloves for a clean up.  Two of the staff Gina Hehir and Frances Davis were to the forefront on Wednesday evening. Despite the wet evening it didn't deter these ladies from removing unsightly litter around the town.  
  There was a very large turnout of young volunteers on Thursday. 25 children from the Scurragh area collected 10 bags of rubbish. It had to be seen to be believed from the ages of three and a half to fourteen years with their safety vest supplied by Super-Valu Birr.  The helpers on the night included Judy O'Neill, Noel Kelly, Tony McLoughlin.
  Gina Hehir of Super-Valu has been a breath of fresh air to the Birr Tidy Towns.  At 8pm on 24th June she is organising a clean up from the Fire Station to the Banagher Road which includes five housing estates in this area.  See all the friends of Birr Tidy Towns at 8p.m. at the Fire Station.
  Congratulations to the parents, teachers, pupils of St. Brendan's National School on acquiring a second green flag. This marvellous achievement came about as a result of months of hard work with the refurbishment of a barren section of land adjacent to the school, which is now transformed into a beautiful garden, well done to all concerned. A visit to this lovely garden is recommended.  Bro Nilus, a very keen gardender himself, fittingly cut the ribbon on an historical evening.
  Thanks to Pat Cleary, Photographer with the Midland Tribune for promoting the efforts of Birr Tidy Towns. Keep Birr tidy and weedless. Thanks to the Birr Council staff who have done a wonderful job cutting the grass in the parks and the estates, and those picking up daily.
  The cutting of the grass on the Tullamore Road has enhanced the entrance to the town, as do the beautiful hedges left and right as you come into Birr. Having visited a number of estates during the week. congratulations to those who organise and maintain the housing estates. The gardens at the rear of Newbridge Street adjacent to the Camcor River are picturesque.Thanks to all the owners. The flower beds at St Brendan's Villas and Moorpark Street also look very well.
  Litter and a lack of civic pride are the negative aspects of Birr, also discarding litter beside bins, the bins are for litter.    

19/6/2008
Opera Theatre Company Presents Mozart's Bastien & Bastienne In Birr

Three talented young Irish singers take to the stage in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Wednesday June 25th at 8p.m. to perform the hilarious comedy Bastien & Bastienne, Opera Theatre Company’s first ever Young Associate Artist’s Production. Their last production BUG OFF!!!  was a complete sell-out, so buy your tickets early and make sure you get to see this madcap opera. 
  One of Mozart’s funniest pieces Bastien & Bastienne is a quirky story about a young country couple who are madly in love. Their perfect relationship is shattered when the boy, Bastien, fools around with another woman in the big city. Is their romance over for ever or can true love survive the mistakes and misunderstandings?
  Although Mozart was only 12 years old when wrote the opera, he was already excellent at writing vocal parts and had a talent for parody and whimsy that still amuses the modern audience. 
 Director Annilese Miskimmon describes Bastien & Bastienne as: 'a perfect hour of fun for someone who has never been to an opera before… (Mozart) didn’t write a serious piece to be worshipped in a hushed theatre – it was for people to laugh at and enjoy with their friends and family.'
  Soprano Claudia Boyle plays young farmer Bastienne, with tenor Andrew Boushell as her straying lover and baritone Gavan Ring as nosy neighour, Colas. The cast members are among the most gifted young performers in the country and they join the growing ranks of those who have been given their first taste of the professional world by Opera Theatre Company. The company is proud to present the next generation of singers to Irish audiences. 
  Sung in English, with piano accompaniment and musical direction by Andrew Synnott, Bastien and Bastienne is designed by David Craig, with lighting design by Kevin Treacy. This charming 50 minute piece is the perfect introduction to opera and should not be missed. ?

19/6/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Under 12 News
  Birr played St Rynagh's during the week in the under 12 championship and had a good win after a very good game of camogie at this level. Birr girls worked very hard for this victory and it wasn't easy by any means. Jamie Spain and Phillipa Ryan got the goals and Fiona Guinan who had another fine game pointed a 30m free. St Rynagh's failed to score but this was mainly due to the excellent work of the backline.
  Team: Emer Grimes, Roisin Watkins, Audrey McAuliffe, Fiona Guinan, Amelia Field, Ciara Ryan, Dawn Whelahan, Ciara Doran, Gillian Irwin, Sarah Lyons, Phillipa Ryan, Jamie Spain, Clodagh Hanniffy, Ali Lyons, Aoife Hogan, Amy Lyons, Shauna Ryan.
 
Feile Na nGael
  It has been a busy few weeks leading into the Feile na nGael weekend and it is just upon us now. Gail Spain has been the secretary in charge of organizing the event and has done great work to get things in order. Together with Mick Hough, Mick Lyons and Deirdre Cahill they have trained the team and prepared them for the event. Carmel Carroll has organized the tracksuits and gear for the girls and many thanks to our sponsors, Tony Morris of Midland Home Improvements who kindly sponsored a set of jerseys for the team, Brian Stephens of Threads, Main Street for gear bags, Simon Whelahan of Whelahans Newsagents for socks and Mick Lyons of Square News for shorts. Thanks to all the parents who are kindly hosting the travelling team in their homes over the weekend and who have helped out in any way in preparation for this great event. Birr camogie club are hosting Lough Lene Gaels from Collinstown, Westmeath and we will make them very welcome to Birr. They arrive in Birr on Friday next 21st June. All we need now is fine weather and good crowds to support the girls.
 
Sympathy
  The club extends sympathy to the following families on their recent bereavements, the Burns family, Clonoghill Lower, Rogers family, High Street, Kennedy family, Fairview and the O'Donoghue family, Cappaneale.

19/6/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Golfing In The Glenns

Presidents Prize Sponsored By Premier Insulations
  The Mens Presidents Michael Liffey Prize was held on Saturday and Sunday.  Over 180 players took part over the two days with some hot scoring returned. In his welcome address Captain Paddy O'Brien introduced the President Michael Liffey and paid tribute to Michael's long association with the Club over the last 40 years as a member of various Committees, team manager and one who worked so hard to promote the club.
  Michael in return thanked the Captain and members for their help during the year and paid tribute to all who played.  He especially thanked Mr Brendan O'Carroll of Premier Insulations who has been sponsoring the event over a long number of years now. 
  In his speech Brendan said he was delighted to be associated with the President's Prize and congratulated all the winners involved. Brendan also noted the improvements around the course which were most welcome.
  On the playing field Albert Kelly returned a great round of 60 Nett off 8 handicap to win followed closely by Pat Scully, 62 Nett and Francie Horan, 62 Nett, Padraig Moylan, 63 Nett and Tom Nestor, 63 Nett.
Result
  1st Albert Kelly (8) 60 Nett, 2nd Pat Scully (20) 62 Nett Gross Seamus Breen 67; 3rd Francie Horan (8)62 Nett; 4th Padraig Moylan (18) 63 Nett; 5th Tom Nestor (19) 63 Nett; 6th Denis Flynn (18) 64 Nett; 7th Jim Egan (12) 64 Nett. Past Presidents Tim Kenny (13) 71 Nett.
  Ladies 9 Hole: 1st Yvonne Boland 23pts; 2nd Liz Nolan, 20pts; 3rd Carmel Ryan, 20pts.

Drumcullen GAA Classic
  Over 50 teams took part in the Drumcullen GAA Classic last Friday organised by Paschal Troy.  A great day out was followed by Presentation and Social afterwards a great example of Club spirit.  
1st Ollie Nugent, Pamela Nugent, Tony Fanneran, Andrew Flanagan 109pts; 2nd P.J. Lowry, Sean Heffernan, Tom Fox, Joe Cuskelly 105pts; 3rd Michael Nolan, Liz Nolan, Ollie Nolan, Ger Claffey 101pts; 4th Ger Gath, Dick Johnston, Michael Stephens, Seamus Coakley 101pts; 5th Paddy Kirwan, Mike McNamara, Maggie Lynch, Elaine Dermody 100pts; 6th Liam Hogan, Niall Shinnors, Bernard Hogan, Liam Dwane, 99pts; 7th Joe Slevin, Frank Kearns, Conor Slevin, Denis Flynn 98pts; 8th John Grennan, Eddie Naughton, Peter Brady, Brendan Hoare 95pts; 9th Paschal Troy, Brian Guinan, Yvonne Guinan, John Sampson 94pts; 10th John Loughnane, Michael Feighery, Michael McGrath, John Hogan 93pts.
  Winner nearest the pin on the 8th was Mary Bolger. Winner Longest Drive on the 16th was Yvonne Guinan. Winner Two Ball Putter Mary Bolger.
Seniors
  1st Brendan Dermody, Tom Nestor, Jim Madden 68; 2nd Fr Foley, Arthur Joyce, Dick Johnston 63; Gross Michael Davis, John Gilmartin, Fergal Boland.
Inter Club
  Hard luck to the South Leinster team who went down to Coolatin by the odd match on Saturday.  Also good luck to Roger Byrne and his Jimmy Bruen team who play in Callan next Saturday in the qualifying round. 
Semi Open Mixed
  The ladies Committee have organised a shot gun mixed for Friday, 27th June at 5p.m sharp.  Refreshments will be served after so get your name down, sheets in both locker rooms.
For Your Diary
  Friday, 20th June Lorrha GAA Classic, contact Michael Liffey for details.
  Wednesday, 25th June Loughnane Sisters Timesheet available.
Junior Golf
  Junior Golf continues every Monday at 10am for boys and girls.  Contact Liz Nolan or Michael Stephens for details.
Course Improvements
  All volunteers are asked to convene at the Clubhouse at 7p.m. on this Wednesday evening for the weekly course clean up.  The Captains are delighted with the response each week when much good work is done.
  18 Hole Stableford on the 8th June was kindly sponsored by Greg Smyth who has opened his new Menswear shop on Main Street, Birr.
  This competition returned some very hot scores and resulted in a win for Tomas Bolger off 9 handicap, who took time out from his Leaving Cert to shoot a great score of 42 points, well done Tomas.  At the presentation Greg said this was his 2nd year to sponsor and was delighted to be associated with the Club.
Result
 1st Tomas Bolger (9) 42pts; 2nd Fran Quinn (8) 42pts; Gross Michael Coughlan 37pts; 3rd Brian Guinan (7) 41pts;
Kenny Cup 
  1st Round must be played by the 21st June.
Hackett Cup 
  2nd Round by the 28th June.
Junior Golf Results 
  9th June 2008; 1st Niall Finley 48pts; 2nd Eoin Pilkington 39pts; 3rd David Sheils 38pts.
  16th June, 2008; 1st David Sheils 42pts; 2nd Paul Daly 41pts; 3rd Daryl Nolan 39pts.  

12/6/2008
Birr Nursing Unit Will Not Close During Summer

A HSE official assured Birr Town Council this week that Birr Nursing Unit will not close during the summer period.
  Mr Liam O'Callaghan from the Health Service Executive said he manages six day care centres in the Laois / Offaly area and he oversees a budget of €178 million and a staff of 1,600 people. He said his problem is an inadequate budget to run the health centres under his remit. 
  Mr O'Callaghan remarked that he made a significant monetary input into Birr Nursing Unit during the last year.
  'The running of Birr Nursing Unit costs €5.8 million per annum and there are 104 members of staff in the facility,' he said. 'There are 30 day care places and about 120 people using them. There are 90 beds and a significant number of longstay beds and four rehab beds.'
  He admitted that because of his budgetary problems he had been looking at closing part of Birr Nursing Unit's operation during the summer months but this is now not going to happen.
  Cllr John Carroll commented that he had been told by staff in the nursing unit that they had been informed by management that the unit would close from the 16th of June next to the end of September.
  Mr O'Callaghan said management had never told staff this.
  Cllr Carroll remarked that many in the town were very concerned about the hospital's future and he wanted an assurance that were would be no downgrading of the hospital's services. Mr O'Callaghan said there would be no downgrading.
  Cllr Carroll commented that Birr Nursing Unit is an invaluable unit which is hugely important and which offers excellent, personal attention to patients. He added that it wasn't true that the number of patients attending the unit decreases during the summer months.
  Cllr Michael Campbell welcomed Mr O'Callaghan. 'It is always great to see someone from HQ, someone at the helm. This matter has been of great concern to the public and I am very glad to hear this evening that the hospital will not close nor will there be any downgrading.
  'This weekend I was in the hospital and we were celebrating the 100th birthday of a patient there. He told me that he wouldn't have made 100 if it hadn't been for the Nursing Unit.'
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin pointed out that the quality of the service provided in the Nursing Unit is second to none. 'Sadly some of the patients need 24 hour care because of declining health.'
  Mr O'Callaghan talked of the creation of a Primary Care Team which will bring the services provided by the nursing unit into a closer relationship with GPs thus benefiting patients.
  He spoke as well of the previous Birr Hospital, also known as Ely House. There are plans to provide some type of health facility here and it will cost about €1 million to revamp the building. He spoke of developing the mental health facility adjacent to the civic offices, a place which he said could offer a very impressive mental health care service.

12/6/2008
Progressive Democrats Member Is New Birr Council Chairman

Progressive Democrats member Cllr Seán Doorley was appointed the new Chairman of Birr Town Council during that body's AGM on Monday evening last.
  Cllr Doorley was proposed by Cllr Noel Russell (Fianna Fáil) and seconded by Cllr Michael Campbell (Fine Gael). There were no other proposals.
  Cllr Doorley began by thanking the members of the public who voted for him during the local elections four years ago. 
  He added that negative politics has never been a feature of Birr Council and it would not be while he is Chairman.
  He spoke of the achievements by the Council since he became a councillor and these included the new playground and the new civic offices. 
  He said one of his ambitions is to acquire a CCTV system for the town to combat criminal and anti-social behaviour.
  Cllr Doorley remarked that FAS still intend to move their head office to Birr.
  'Heavy traffic is an issue in the town and we need a bypass, but this will be a few years down the way. In the meantime we must deal with the problem as ably as we can.
  'And we must deal with the Seffin issue which is now a 20 year old problem.'
  Cllr Doorley spoke of the cynical attitude that one so often comes across among members of the public when they are talking about politicians. He commented that most of the time this cynical attitude is misplaced as politicians are decent individuals merely trying to do their best for their community.
  He remarked that he was disappointed that more members of the media don't cover Birr Town Council's meetings. Most of the time 'The Midland Tribune' is the only section of the media which is covering a Birr Council meeting.
  He encouraged the public to ask for the new brochure giving guidelines about the town's development plan, which can be obtained in Birr Civic Offices.
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain was then appointed Vice-Chairperson. She was proposed by Cllr Tony McLoughlin and seconded by Cllr Michael Loughnane.
  Cllr Hynes Spain wished Cllr Doorley the best in his new role and hoped that most importantly he would enjoy his year in the job.
  The outgoing Chairman was Cllr Michael Loughnane. Cllr Loughnane said he had thoroughly enjoyed his 12 months as Chairman but it was also filled with mixed emotions because of the passing of his late father, Michael Senior.
  Cllr Loughnane was made Chairman last year because his father was ill at the time, and Cllr Loughnane said he would always be grateful to the Council for this.
  He complimented the previous area engineer John Cunningham for his good work over the last couple of years before he was succeeded by Willie Ryan.
  He also complimented Michael Roche, Director of Services, who he said had an 'easygoing way of doing things, and I am not sure if that is a good or a bad thing.'
  Cllr Loughnane pointed out that one of the highlights of the year was when Brian Cowen became Taoiseach on the 7th of May last. On the 6th of May Cllr Loughnane took his late father's place on the national executive of Fianna Fáil.
  Reflecting on being Chairman he said 'it is a tremendous honour to be the first citizen of your town' and he looked back on the many achievements of the last year including the revamped swimming pool, broadband, civic amenity facility, Birr youth project, the new cemetery, the completion of part of a major water and sewage project, the advance of the LUTS (bypass) project, the Tesco development.
  One of the things that concerns him is the profile of the Town Council and some of the negative attitudes held by the public towards the Council. He said some people say the Council never does anything. 'This is clearly not true and we must do all we can to combat this negative attitude.'
  He added that Nenagh is presently aiming to procure natural gas for the region in view of the rising oil prices, and he said Birr and Roscrea should support Nenagh in this endeavour.
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain congratulated Cllr Loughnane on 'an excellent performance' during his tenure of the Chair and she said Cllr Loughnane was always very affable with the other councillors.
  Cllr Michael Campbell agreed with this adding that the outgoing Chairman never descended to petty party politics and always treated all of the councillors no matter what their political colouring with respect and affability. 
  Cllr McLoughlin said the outgoing chairman brought a businesslike and professional acumen to his role.
  In proposing Cllr Doorley, Cllr Russell said Cllr Doorley is 'heavily involved in local business and in local sport including the GAA and golf.'
  Labour member Timmy Molloy from Kilcormac was also co-opted onto the Council to replace Seamus Fanneran, who left the Council a few months ago because of his health.
  Welcoming Timmy, Cllr Russell commented that 'if your Council work is a good as your music then you will be a very successful politician.'
  'I often say that I am always in tune,' replied Cllr Molloy.
  In other business Willie Ryan said there has been good progress on the two Tesco's roundabouts, located on the Roscrea Road and the Nenagh Road. Councillors warned that traffic problems could occur on Moorpark Street. They suggested making Orchard Lane oneway.
  Mr Roche said the laying of the broadband ducting has been completed but it now needs to be 'lit'.
  Cllr Russell said ramps have been placed in Grove Street Crinkle and now every estate in Birr wants them. Mr Ryan pointed out that the County Council's policy is that ramps are a last resort and they create a problem with emergency vehicles.
  Cllr McLoughlin raised the problem of traffic congestion on High Street.
  Cllr Campbell pointed out that people attending Birr Theatre & Arts Centre performances are parking inconsiderately and blocking residents' cars.
  Cllr Campbell agreed with Cllr Doorley that many people had an unjustly negative attitude towards the Council. He suggested a PR campaign in the local media to create a positive image.
  Cllr Carroll wondered when the pavements on Connaught Street would be done.
  Mr Ryan said a design for traffic lights at Seffin was presently being drawn up.
  Cllr Loughnane asked for an update on the proposed tourism kiosk in Emmet Square. He was told this will be erected in the near future. Cllr Loughnane commented that the riverside walk between Wilmer Road and the Kinnitty road needs to be cleaned up.
  Mr Ryan commented that it's planned to make Rock Lane oneway. Cllr McLoughlin said it's very dangerous for cars exiting the lane onto Gallows' Hill. Cllr Russell said accidents have happened here.
  Cllr Campbell pointed out that Crotty's Church was recently sold and the council should now put the money towards creating a skate park. 
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain said Mill Island is 'an anti-social hangout' for young people and she welcomed the Gardaí's recent decision to crack down on young people drinking here and in Camcor Park. Cllr McLoughlin said the crack down has had noticeable results for the good.
  Cllr Denis Sheils sent his congratulations Cllr Loughnane on being an excellent chairman and said he had a very good year in difficult cirumstances, owing to the death of his father early in his term. He wished the incoming Chairman, Cllr Sean Doorley, all the best for the next year and said he looks forwards to working with Sean and working as hard as ever for the better of our town and the people of Birr.
  Cllr Sheils also extended his thanks to all staff, indoor and outdoor, of Birr Town Council for all the works carried out during the year. It was a very successful year. He paid tribute to the Engineer, Willie Ryan, John Cunningham and staff, for acting quickly on the works programme and that the town will be all the better for it.
  Cllr Sheils said there are still areas to be worked on, especially the footpaths on Military road coming down from the Birr side.
  He also hopes that more houses will come on stream, espectially for single people and young couples.

12/6/2008
Long-Awaited Birr Recycling Centre Opened

The long-awaited Birr recycling centre was finally opened last Tuesday the 3rd of June.
  Birr Civic Amenity Facility is located in Syngefield Industrial Estate and it will be open Tuesday to Saturday 9a.m. to 5.30p.m.
  The facility is being run by a Dublin company called Greyhound Recycling and to use it will cost €3 per car and €5 per trailer / van.
  The recycling facility is open to all and the public will be able to bring a wide variety of materials to the site.
  People will be able to recycle the following materials: household packagings such as glass bottles and jars, drink and food cans; paper such as cardboard, magazines and newsprint; car and household batteries; plastic; fluorescent tubes and lightbulbs; textiles eg. clothes and footwear; priority waste eg. paint and aerosols; scrap metal; tyres; timber; waste oils such as cooking and engine oil; electrical and electronic items.
  The opening of the new facility was warmly welcomed during the meetings of Birr Town Council and Birr Area Committee.
  Cllr Sinead Moylan Ryan, Chairperson of Birr Area Committee, said everyone had been waiting a long time for this much-needed facility.
  Cllr John Carroll asked what would now happen to the recycling bins located in Marian Hall Car Park.
  The Director of Services Michael Roche remarked that the bins in Marian Hall Car Park often look unsightly and create an unfavourable impression for tourists visiting Birr Castle. He said unless the public improve their usage of the bins then they will be removed.
  Cllr Michael Loughnane commented that it would be a good idea to remove the bins but to put them in a new location, such as Wilmer Road Car Park, which would be less visible. He said it could also be argued that the bins could create a good impression because they display a care for the environment.

12/6/2008
Keen Interest Shown In Provision Of Skate Park For Birr

The possibility of providing a Skate Park in Birr was discussed at a public meeting in Dooly's Hotel, Birr last week. There was a sizeable turnout of people, including the Councillors from Birr Town Council, who gave their backing and support for the project.  A committee was set up to give it its backing and try and bring the project forward.
  The background to the meeting was explained by Cllr John Carroll. He spoke of the lobbying being done by the young skate board enthusiasts. They had made a presentation to Birr Town Council and had lobbied councillors about the idea. 
  In the light of this lobbying Cllr. Carroll said he met Isaac Smith, Oisin Clarke, Damian Gormely and Luke Garland on a couple of occasions to measure the level of support for the idea, to look at prospective sites and examine how the project might be progressed.
  From these preliminary meetings, Cllr. Carroll continued, this meeting was organised and the large attendances surpassed expectations of all concerned but reinforced the views of the youth that a skate park is needed and would be a valuable addition to social outlets in Birr.
  Cllr Carroll presided at the meeting and was accompanied at the top table by Luke Garland, Oisin Clarke, Damien Gormley with Isaac Smith unavoidably absent.
  It was pointed out that if a park was to be set up possible locations for it could be beside the playground in the town or in Mill Island.  There are about 20-25 youngsters who skate regularly in the town at present.  
  The project would have to get funding and different points about the costings for it were referred to. It is envisaged that there would be a cost of €90,000 if it was contracted out, local involvement might reduce this.  
  The Chairman of Tullamore Town Council Richard Egan was present to explain the background to the Tullamore Skate Park on the invitation of Cllr Ann Spain. He said they set up an action group and brought a petition and a plan to the council. The cost of the skate park in Tullamore came to €92,000 with funding from the government. He said the Tullamore Town Park has CCTV in place and a full time park ranger. He went on to say that a consultation process would have to take place, and a committee set up to see how they would go about it.  
  A number of issues were identified which included procuring a site, insurance, maintenance, supervision and the cost of provision. It was queried would the project be provided by the Town Council or by the community getting support from Town Council? Another query was could the money for it come out of Capital Funding.  
  The Councillors made a commitment (all members of the council were present) to seek answers from the Executive on the questions re provision of finance, provision of a site, insurance, maintenances, promotion of the project.
  The meeting then selected a committee of five skate board enthusiasts who were prominent with Cllr. Carroll in organising the public meeting, together with six adults who volunteered. All the Councillors gave their full backing to it and agreed to work and assist the committee in every way as they go forward with it.  
  Cllr. Carroll thanked the people for attending, he congratulated the young people who had worked to get the project to this stage and Cllr. Richard Egan, Chairman Tullamore Town Council for his valuable insight into the background of the Tullamore Skate Park.
  There is an International maker of skate parks called 'Rhino' whose logo is 'The toughest name in Skate Parks Worldwide.' They have over 400 skate parks worldwide in different countries.
  'With our modular skate park system, we can design and construct every imaginable layout, for every budget, to fulfill the wishes of both skaters and communities. All our skate parks are designed by skaters for skaters and adhere to the most stringent engineering and safety norms for skate park construction in the world: the DIN standards,' says their promotional material.
  'With more than 34 years of manufacturing experience certified by ISO and TUV, we only offer the highest quality, CAD designed and CNC produced skate ramps possible,' it adds.

12/6/2008
Birr News Digest

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  The Inter Firms competition, which is once again kindly sponsored by The Sportsman's Dream, Nenagh, has now started. The schedule of matches is now displayed on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. The competition is divided into two sections and will continue over the next few weeks. The competition will be completed by the end of June as the presentation Barbecue has been arranged for The Chestnut on Friday June 27th.
  Beginners nights have started on Tuesday nights at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  The club's Senior Open Week will take place from Sunday June 29th to Saturday July 5th.
  Membership for the year is now due. Membership fees have remained the same as last year, so provide very good value for money. Seniors €125, family €175.

Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club will host a Garden Party Evening, on Wednesday 11th June at 8.30p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. This will be their final get together before they break up for the summer. After the AGM, which will take place on the night, they will have lots of lovely nibbles, wine and a bit of craic. There will be extra raffle prizes on this occasion, so don't miss out!!
  Please remember the Gardening Trip to Rathwood Home Gift & Garden World, Rath, Tullow, Co.Carlow, which takes place on Saturday 5th July. Bus leaving Ballyegan Hall at 9.30a.m. The trip costs €20 for members, €25 non-members. All names and money must be given at the meeting on 11th June. Places will not be held otherwise. Looking forward to a great evening!!

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book is available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Cost only €20. Contact the church or parish office.

Birr Town AGM
  The AGM of the Birr Town Football Club takes place in the Clubhouse on Tuesday, June 17th at 8p.m. All are welcome.  

Canoe Courses
  Shannon Adventure Canoeing - Proficiency 1 open canoe courses for children and adults starting soon. For details contact (0570 9151411 or (087) 1250731.

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations
  A Special Mass to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of well-known and popular Shinrone priest, Fr. Frank Bergin, will take place at St. Mary's Church, Shinrone on Wednesday 18th June at 7.30p.m. Mass will be followed by refreshments in the Community Centre. All are welcome to come along to this very special celebration.

Greg Smith Menswear
  Greg Menswear has re-located to Main Street, Birr (057) 9125472. (Advert)

Gun Club Barbecue
  Kinnitty Gun Club would like to thank everyone who supported the barbecue on Sunday June 1st. Donation was made to Crumlin Hospital.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 14th of July. The book for this month is 'Restless' by William Boyd (chosen by Pauline). New members welcome. Enquiries - (057) 91 39028.

St Pio Mass
  St Pio Mass will take place on Tuesday 17th of June next at 7.30p.m. Rosary 7.15p.m.

All Welcome To Tidy Towns Cleanup
  Are you interested in investing some time in your community? If you would like to help, join the Tidy Towns team on Wednesday 11th of June in Emmet Square at 8p.m. All are welcome.

Birr Mart
  Bullocks: 2 lim 535 €910, 2 ch 505 €955, 2 lim 605 €1,120, 6 fr 498 €805, 1 ch 615 €1,120, 1 ch 585 €1,070, 1 her 570 €1,000, 1 lim 655 €1,150, 2 her 695 €1,225, 2 aa 543 €945. Heifers: 4 sim 290 €530, 1 lim 550 €1,145, 1 her 465 €845, 2 aa 645 €1,250, 1 sim 600 €1,170, 1 sim 550 €1,055, 1 lim 590 €1,175, 2 her 535 €1,165, 1ch 630 €1,275, 1 ch 435 €775.

Youth Disco In Melba's
  The youth disco in Melba's Nite Club will start on Thursday the 26th of June and will run until the 7th of August. 8p.m. to 10p.m. Admission €5. All proceeds to Cystic Fibrosis Midlands. Mineral Bar only. Music by JD Roadshow.

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 9, 12, 13 and 22. No jackpot winner. One match three winner was Mary Finnerty c/o McKenna. Next week's Jackpot €11,300. Draw will take place in Whelahan's. Thanks to Nolan's and to everybody who supports the club every week.

Birr Town Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town lotto were 2, 10, 18 and 26. Bonus no 25. No Jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €200 - Luke Hoctor, Rosse Row. Next week's jackpot €5,800 with bonus no €8,800. Draw will take place in the Cherry Tree on Monday June 16th. Thanking all for continued support. The AGM of the club takes place on Tuesday 17th June in the clubhouse at 8p.m. All are welcome.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo: The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual 8.30p.m sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was won on 12 games by Michael Caffrey and Jimmy Dolan. Two pairs had 11 games Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan, Jack Maher and Stephen Lonergan. The last game went to Mary and Tony Larkin while the table prize was won by Seamus O'Grady and  Tom Ryan. Raffle prize winners were Tom Carroll, John O'Keeffe and Pat Smyth. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Childminder Coffee Morning
  Childminder Coffee morning will take place in Jumpin' Jacks, Tullamore on Thursday 19th June. This event is open to Childminders and those who are thinking of becoming a childminder. Please phone Fiona on  (057) 9370630 for more details.

Birr Tourist Information Office
  Birr Tourist Information Office is now open for the 2008 season. It is located in The Civic Buildings, Wilmer Road, Birr and is open from 9.30a.m. until 5.30p.m. Monday to Saturday inclusive. The Office is closed for lunch from 1p.m.– 2p.m. each day.
  For enquiries and information please contact Mary or Breda on (057) 9120110.
 
Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups. There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30p.m. to 3.30p.m.
  For more information please call (057) 9121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m. every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

12/6/2008
Enright Welcomes Steps To Address Seffin Junction By NRA

Laois/Offaly Fine Gael Deputy Olwyn Enright has welcomed the news that the National Roads Authority will undertake a traffic count at the N62 Seffin junction in Birr in the coming weeks. 
  Having called for the NRA to address the dangerous situation at the Birr junction for many years, Deputy Enright said that she was delighted to be told that the issue is being taken in hand by the Roads body. 
  'Having contacted the NRA again, I was told that they are looking into whether a set of signals will be a suitable solution at this location. The NRA said that if the signals are suitable, they will fund Offaly County County to design and install them,' she said. 
  Deputy Enright said that she will continue to keep in contact with the NRA to ensure that the safety concerns by the road users and pedestrians in the area are addressed at the earliest opportunity and in the safest manner.  

12/6/2008
Seminar In National Museum On Psalter Found In Faddan More Bog

Members of Birr Historical Society attended a Seminar in Dublin last week in the National Museum of Ireland about The Psalter or Book of Psalms found in Faddan More Bog, which is now undergoing extensive conservation work in the Museum's laboratory. The seminar was attended by a large number of visitors from both Ireland and overseas.
  Dr. Pat Wallace opened the seminar and began by saying that on the 26th July, 2006 the greatest single archaeological find ever made in Ireland after the Ardagh Chalice was found in a bog in Faddan More, Co. Tipperary. The remains of an illuminated manuscript of early medieval date along with a leather binding and remains of a leather bag were discovered by chance during turf cutting operations. The discovery is the first medieval manuscript ever found in a wetland environment.  
  Dr. Wallace said that it was a miracle that the manuscript survived at all, was found in such good condition and was found by men who knew what to do with it: keep the find covered with wet peat, thereby ensuring it wasn't damaged by its exposure to air after being buried for centuries. 
  Dr. Wallace paid tribute to the gifted team who have been committed to the task of restoring the manuscript, John Gillis, a senior book and manuscript conservator from Trinity College, Dublin, Rolly Read, Head of Conservation at the National Museum and he paid tribute to the people of Faddan More, Edward Fogarty, the excavator driver who dug up the Psalter, the Leonard family who own the land and he expressed his condolences to Kevin Leonard and to the Leonard family on the death of his brother Patrick who died shortly after the manuscript was found.  
  Dr. Wallace gave a special welcome to the Birr Historical Society who he said 'were the most active in Ireland' having recently launched a booklet about the Gospel Book of Macregol of Birr, and who were responsible for the production of a one only facsimile copy of the Macregol Gospels, now on display in Birr Library.
  President Irene Morrow introduced the first speaker, John Gillis, who had been working on the restoration of the Psalter led by Rolly Read, Head of Conservatism at the National Museum of Ireland.  Irene said that the discovery of the Psalter was an exciting discovery for the parish of Birr, as Faddan More is very near Birr.  She paid tribute to Kevin and Patrick Leonard who knew to phone the National Museum  and it was providential that the Director of the National Museum was in Dublin and that the find was rescued the following day.
  She said that the Psalter was a treasure when written. It took a lot of work to produce the herd of cattle used for the vellum, the flock of geese who provided the quills to write with, the ink, making the colours and the leather binding.  It was a very demanding and lengthy task. The Psalter is the word of God. The Bible was brought to Ireland in the 4th of 5th century before Declan, Ciaran, Patrick and it was the centre of their lives. The Psalter is used every day in the monasateries, used in services of worship. It expresses every emotion - there are Psalms for praise to God, for times of crisis, times of change, psalms of music.
  John Gillis, in consultation with other experts operating in the Museum's laboratory has undertaken the painstaking work of preserving the manuscript. He spoke about how the low oxygen and sphagnum moss conditions of the bog kept the Psalter intact for centuries. The challenge facing him was how to find the safest way to pry open the pages without damaging and destroying them. This has taken months of trial and error experiments to avoid shrinkage of the vellum. The writing is more clear in the wet state than when dry. Every stage of the conservation work is being photographed and documented.
  Eamonn Kelly, Keeper of the Irish Antiquities at the National Museum spoke at length about the discovery and excavation of the site at Faddan More. He said that Faddan refers to a small stream whose channel is narrow and deep. Faddan More is located close to the important monastic sites of Birr, Lorrha, Terryglass, Roscrea, Seir Kieran, Kinnitty and there was a high period of manuscript production in South Offaly. Faddan More is located 7km from Birr which had a large monstery founded by St. Brendan and it may be possible that the Psalter was made in Birr.
  Upon first examination it was clear that the manuscript was of exceptional importance. You could see gold paint. The main concern when the team from the National Museum arrived in Faddan More was to get the manuscript to the museum. The main findings of the excavation was that the manuscript had been found placed in an upright position resting on its spine. The book may have been wrapped in leather and may have been covered by calf skin. He said that carbon dating would provide an indication as to when the Psalter was left in the bog and this may provide the reasons why it was put in the bog. A sample of vellum from the manuscript has been sent to Copenhagen for carbon dating analysis. The depth the Psalter was found in the bog is arbitrary as the bog had been drained and a top layer removed by earlier peat harvesting.
  Rolly Read, Head of Conservation, National Museum of Ireland who has overall responsibility for the conservation of the manuscript, praised the Leonards for covering the manuscript in wet peat which stopped the manuscript from drying out. This type of object has never been found before in a waterlogged context. The challenge for the conservation team was how to find a means of controlling the drying out process to stop the vellum from blackening and shrinking on drying. Every stage of conservation is being recorded scientifically.  The National Museum have been able to draw on scientific research already done on the preservation of bog bodies to help in the restoration of the Psalter.
  Bernard Meehan, Keeper of the Manuscripts at Trinity College Dublin said that when he first saw the lump of peat at Collins Barracks where the Psalter had been placed, he saw glistening letters and it was clear within a few days that this was a special find. It is difficult at the moment to say when the psalter was written. The script is Insular Majiscule and the text compares with the Vulgate. The Psalter is difficult to work with as each page is in a different state of legibility - words and phrases are falling through the holes in the skin and a lot more conservation work needs to be done before the text of the Psalter can be full assessed.
  Chris Clarkson, conservator of parchment and paper manuscripts, early printed books and book-bindings, spoke about the leather binding of the Psalter in the wider context. In every country that produced manuscripts, fine bindings were also produced. Examples of early biblical book binding is rare as only a fraction of the wealth which once existed has survived. He said that binding on the Fadden More Psalter was pre 1200 AD.
  Raghnall O'Floinn, Head of Collections at the National Museum said that the nearest comparison to the Faddan More Psalter was the Book of Dimma (Roscrea). There are faint traces of decoration on the leather binding. The relationship between the manuscript and the cover is that this is the last element. The cover on the Faddan More Psalter is not attached to the manuscript.
  Daibhi O'Croinin, Lecturer at NUI Galway said that Latin writing and literacy was part of our Christian heritage.  He referred to Iona as the centre for Irish written culture. The Vatican Vergil (c 500) which is the oldest known manuscript has no paragraphs or punctuation - the words just run into each other. There are an enormous amount of Irish manuscripts written in both Latin and Irish in libraries in Europe. Irish scholars taught Europeans to write insular script. Irish scribes separated the words, put in capitals, punctuation. These features in writing are an Irish invention.
  In summary, the Faddan More Psalter discovered in a bog, provides us with lessons about the place of the Word of God in a bygone era, lessons about the spiritual riches in our tradition and it is a testament to the high achievement of our Early Christian civilisation. Restoration work is continuing in the Museum's laboratory on the Psalter and there are plans to exhibit the Psalter in the National Museum in about two years time.  

12/6/2008
Sinead Moylan Ryan Is Birr Area Chairperson

Cllr Sinead Moylan Ryan was appointed the new Chairperson of Birr Area Committee during the committee's June meeting on Monday morning last.
  Outgoing chairperson Cllr Tony McLoughlin thanked the staff for all their good work during the last 12 months.
  He said the previous area engineer John Cunningham achieved a large amount of work during his time as area engineer.
  He commended the outdoor staff including those who worked hard to ensure parts of Birr had a water supply a few months ago. Cllr McLoughlin also thanked The Midland Tribune for its coverage of area meetings.
  Cllr Sinead Moylan Ryan remarked that being made Chairperson was 'a great honour for me' and she looked forward to a productive 12 months.
  In other business area engineer Willie Ryan commented that the surface dressing period of the year had started and in Birr 30% of the year's dressing has been done. He said he will tackle the footpaths after the summer holidays.
  Cllr McLoughlin enquired about the school warning lights in Clareen. Mr Ryan said he hopes to do this before school begins in September.
  Cllr Peter Ormond once again raised the damage being done by trucks travelling to and from a sandpit near Shinrone. He said these trucks have caused about 400,000 Euros worth of damage to the Glasshouse Road. Mr Ryan said repair work will be carried out on the road and the manager of the sandpit has agreed that his trucks will only drive oneway on the road. 
  Cllr McLoughlin asked when was the work commencing on the Cloghan to Coolderry Road.

12/6/2008
Birr Tidy Towns - Dwindling Of A Community Spirit

Birr Tidy Towns will be holding a clean up on Wednesday June 11th at 8p.m. at the fire station. Residents from Chesterfield, Ashbrook, McAuley Drive, Presentation Place, Cappaneale Park and SupeValu staff will be assisting with the clean up. 
  On Thursday at 8p.m. there will be a clean up at Scurragh-Cluid Housing Estates. Residents' help is required.
  Thanks to Michael O'Brien for donating whitethorn trees and to the civic minded people who are watering the flowers at Bridge Street.
  Thanks to the McDonagh family, Lesley Farrar, Mary Lawlor and Tony McLoughlin for the clean up at Drombane last week.

12/6/2008
Birr Community Games

Athletics
  Congratulations to all the children who participated in the County finals in the Tullamore Harriers last Saturday. The sun shone all day which made for a wonderful day. Thanks to all the parents who helped on the day and to Michael Kenny, Josephine Rigney, Margaret Irwin and Catherine Barry.  
  The following won gold medals and will now travel to Mosney in August - Frances Hoare (Girls U-10 Hurdles), Oisin Murphy (Boys U-10 200m), Ronan Murphy (Boys U-12 600m), Oisin Clarke (Boys U-14 Long Jump), Michael Kenny (Boys U-16 Discus), Craig Taylor (Boys U-12 Long Puck), Oisin Murphy, Joseph Kennedy, Patryk Kwestarz, Moya Dickson, Grace Gorman, Laura Maloney (U-10 Mixed Relay), well done.  
  Congratulations to all the other medal winners - Joseph Kennedy (2nd Boys U-10 100m), Patryk Kwestarz (2nd Boys U-10 Hurdles), Daniel O'Meara (2nd Boys U-12 Long Puck), Ellen Kelly (2nd Girls U-13 Walk), Anna Barry (3rd Girls U-13 Walk), Sarah Harding (2nd Girls U-10 Hurdles), Kayleigh Shiels (2nd Girls U-14 100m), Kerrie Byrne (3rd Girls U-12 Ball Throw), Ria Harding (3rd Girls Long Puck), Amy Lyons, Gillian Irwin, Sarah Lyons, Ciara Maloney (2nd Girls U-12 Relay), Gillian Irwin (3rd Girls U-12 600m), Shannon Quegan, Amelia Field, Aine Delahunt, Kayleigh Shiels, Emily O'Brien (2nd Girls U-14 Relay), Emily O'Brien (3rd Girls U-14 Hurdles), Ronan Murphy, Conor Smyth, Daniel O'Meara, Cormac Kenny (3rd Boys U-12 Relay). Well done. 

12/6/2008
Wolftrap Cycling Club

Annual Billy Butler Leisure Cycle, Birr Sunday 29th June
  The 2008 Billy Butler Leisure Cycle will be run on Sunday 29th June, starting from Birr Rugby Club at 10a.m. There will be three routes:
? 45 km easy-pace, ideal for beginners.
? 115 km on undulating terrain
? 125 km, as above, plus the Wolftrap climb
  Motorcycle marshals will patrol the route and showers are available at the finish, as well as tea, sandwiches and cakes at the Rugby Club.
  All welcome, you don’t have to be in a cycling club to enter.
Beginners’ Group
  Want to start cycling, or haven’t ridden your bike for ages? Try the beginners’ group: 8–10 miles at an easy pace, starting at Horan’s shop, Newbridge St, Birr on Sunday mornings and/or Wednesday evenings. Contact Bernie at (085) 1500519 for details.
Sunday Morning Spin
  Leaves Horan’s shop in Newbridge St, Birr at 9a.m. in summer; 10a.m. in Winter. Medium and fast-paced groups. Contact Gary (086) 3580978 for details.

12/6/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

President’s Prize
  The centre of attraction this weekend will be President Michael Liffey’s prize sponsored by Brendan and Martina Carroll of Premier Insulations, Birr. A time sheet will be in operation for Saturday and Sunday. Presentation of prizes will take place at 9p.m. on Sunday followed by music and food. There will be a Ladies 9h Stableford from 5p.m. 
For Your Diary
  Thursday 12th June: 10.00a.m. Seniors. One draw.
  Friday 13th June: Drumcullen Classic. Tee reserved until 5.30p.m.
  Saturday/Sunday 14th/15th June: President Michael Liffey’s prize sponsored by Brendan and Martina Carroll of Premier Insulations Ltd. Time sheet. Presentation at 9.00p.m.
  Saturday 14th June: 2.30p.m. and 4.00p.m. South Leinster v Coolattin. First nine twice.
  Monday 16th June: 10.30a.m. Juniors (Boys and Girls).
  Friday 20th June: Lorrha Classic. Tee reserved until 5.30p.m.
  Wednesday 25th June: Loughnane Sisters.
Results
  Sunday 8th June: 18h Stableford sponsored by Greg Smith Menswear, Birr; 1st Tomas Bolger (9) 42 pts (13 on last 6). 2nd Fran Quinn (8) 42 pts. (12 on last 6) Gross: Michael Coughlan 37 pts. 3rd Brian Guinan (7) 40 pts.
Seniors
  1st Michael Liffey, Bernard Wilks, Tom Nestor, Paddy Greally, 68pts; 2nd Arthur Joyce, Paul Walshe, Fergal Boland, 66pts; Gross: Paddy O'Brien, Fintan Dolan, Tom Wright, 45pts
LCM At East Clare
  Sean O’Gara (17) Nenagh 41 pts. Cat. A. 1. Michael Keely (11) Templemore 39 pts; 2 Matt Hanly (36) Nenagh 36 pts; Cat. B. 1. Michael Varley (13) Nenagh 38 pts; 2. Paddy Gleeson (18) Thurles 36 pts; Cat. C: 1. Des Clarke (16) Portumna 36 pts; 2. J. O’Shaughnessy (11) 34 pts; Gross: Cecil Carter (7) Mountrath 26 pts.
Next outing: Captain’s (Mr. Philip Kennedy) Prize at Roscrea Golf Club on Thursday June 12th. 
Match Play
  The Austin Gleeson Mixed has reached the semi-final stage when Gavin Young/Sheila Brennan play Tim Kenny/Kay Kelly and Margot Regan/Liam O’Brien play Pat Molloy/Maura Flannery.
  The draw for the Kenny Cup has been made and posted in the locker room. The first round of the Hackett Cup must be played on or before Saturday June 14th.
Inter Club
  Congratulations to the Heineken Mixed on an excellent victory over Moate on Saturday. Managers Presidents Michael Liffey and Bernie McTague were very pleased with two home and two away wins. At home were: Kathleen Doorley/Michael Liffey, Ann Kenny/Pat Molloy and Aileen Watkins/Billy Donlon. Away were; Gemma Butler/Bernard Kennedy, Mary Ryan/Paschal Troy, Marie Tooher/Joe Slevin and Tori Baker/Eddie Nevin
  Hard luck on our Barton cup team and manager Ger Gath who went down by the odd match against Moate on Sunday. At home were John Dwyer/Ger Gath, Shane Guinan/Aidan Hogan, Pat Maher/John Wims. Away were Billy Donlon/Tim Kenny and Declan Gath/Pat Molloy.
  Best of luck to the South Leinsters against Coolattin on Saturday June 14th. At home are: Charlie Brophy, Tom King and Aiden Farrelly. Away are Seamas Guinan, Seamas Coakley, Martin Hogan and David Byrne. Managers are Tom King and Tony Hogan. 
Congratulations
  Congratulations to Emer Hanniffy on getting a hole-in-one at the 8th in her match against Moate on Sunday,
Course Work
  Course work continues each Wednesday at 7.00p.m. The captains were delighted with the large turnout last week when much work was done. Sincere thanks to all who volunteered.
Ladies’ Golf
  Congratulations to Rita Enright (Captain/Manager) of the Miele Fourball Team, players Gemma Butler & Kathleen Doorley and Emer Hanniffy &  Frances Ashe at home and to Martina O’Brien & Mary Ryan and Anne Kenny & Marie Tooher away, who scored a mighty victory against The Heath on Sunday. The team now meets the winners of the match between Gort & Curra West in the Regional Quarter finals. The Minor Cup team of Lady Vice-Captain Mary Sullivan, Rita Delaney, Dor Dempsey, (all away) & Margot Regan & Aileen Watkins (at home) play their Quarter final match against Cill Dara Monday June 9th. Evelyn Lynch’s Senior Foursome team have reached the Semi Finals, the first leg of which will be played against Tullamore at home on Thursday June 19th. Together with the wonderful win in the Heineken Mixed on Saturday June 7th it’s been another great week for Ladies’ Golf at the Glenns.
  Result of Allied Irish Bank sponsored Medal Competition – 1st. Yvonne Boland Nett 70 (on back 9) 2nd. Margaret Murphy – Nett 70; Best Gross – Sheila Brennan – 85; 3rd June Carroll 71 Nett.   
  An 18 hole Stableford competition is being completed on Wednesday June 11th – usual arrangement for draws at 10a.m. & 2 p.m. and play as you wish after 4p.m. Cathal McIntyre, our hard working capable caterer is kindly sponsoring a competition to be run on Saturday June 14th & Wednesday June 18th.   
Junior Golf 
Junior Golf is now taking place on Mondays at 10a.m. More information can be obtained from the clubhouse or Junior Organiser Aileen Watkins.
Sympathy
  The members extend deepest sympathy to Mary Duffy on the death of her brother Tim Maloney in Spanish Point recently.

5/6/2008
2nd Annual Birr Game Fair Launched

It proved an outstanding success last year, drawing large crowds, and it will be held once again in Birr this year.
  The second annual Irish Game and Country Fair will be held in Birr Castle on the 30th and 31st of August next and it will be a bigger event with a host of new attractions.
  A press reception was held in Birr Castle last Wednesday evening to launch the Fair and the organisers outlined a series of exciting new developments.
  These include championships in claypigeon shooting, fly casting, gundogs, terriers and lurchers. 
  They also include a medieval section with jousting, a medieval play and a medieval market. A falconry display will also feature.
  The Birr Game Fair gives local businesses an opportunity to advertise and sell their wares, and it's linked with Northern Ireland Game Fair in Shane's Castle, Antrim.
  Speaking at last Wednesday's press launch Albert Titterington, the marketing director for both the event at Birr Castle and the northern fair in Shane's Castle, said that the 2007 fair in Birr exceeded all their expectations in terms of attendance, the number of exhibitors and competitors, the number of visitors it brought to the area and the amount of commercial business that was done inside and outside of the event.
  'My wife Irene and I would like to pay tribute for this success to our Republic of Ireland colleagues Philip and David, our competition organisers - clay pigeon shooting, gundogs, fishing and terrier & lurchers; our sponsors; the staff from Shannon Development (especially Bernie Leonard) and Mid Ireland Tourism (especially Yvonne Mullally) - these two ladies helped in ways too numerous to mention and of course we must thank the ordinary people of Birr who took us to their bosom.
  'Finally, we must pay a massive tribute to our hosts Lord and Lady Rosse and their staff, who were involved in virtually every facet of the organisation of the event. I have worked with hosts for over 30 years and seldom have we had the real interest and commitment in the event that the team from Birr Castle have displayed. In real terms there were few places that were out of bounds on the estate to our visitors and I am delighted to say our visitors respected the beauty of the estate and we had a safe, vandal free and happy event.
  'In addition to hosting the event Lord Rosse came up with a great deal of very good advice and displayed an openness to facilitate the smooth operation of the fair - right down to opening up a couple of new roadways. He also came up with exciting marketing ideas, some of which we have incorporated this year.
  'As I said last year when I visited Birr Castle some years ago I thought it was a truly magical place and thought if we were to organise a true partner fair to our award winning Northern Fair at Shane's Castle, Birr Demesne was the place to do it. After 30 years of organising Irish Game Fairs I have to say it quite revitalised my commitment to the Game Fair concept when Lord and Lady Rosse agreed to make our vision a reality and host the inaugural Irish Game and Country Fair.'
  Mr Titterington said it is hoped to develop the two Fairs further which will make them stand out 'not only in Ireland but in the European marketplace as well'. He said that they plan to capitalise on the benefits that twinning the two can deliver not only to the fairs but to their host economies.
  He added that while the Great Game Fairs of Ireland concept has been planned with the discerning country audience very much front of mind, both shows have much wider family appeal as well. 
  At an early stage the organisers took the decision to maintain the sporting integrity and rural roots of the Game Fair but also to add to it events and attractions which appeal to the whole family.
  He said visitors to the Fair will be able to sample such rural pleasures as crafts, food and entertainment as well as country sports. They will also be entertained with rural sporting traditions of other ages in the form of a medieval encampment, complete with knights, squires, and ladies, sword fighting and impressive military skirmishes and formations, jousting, a medieval play and a medieval market place with authentic medieval products.
  He also assured the Fair's core country sports audience 'that we have no intention of forgetting our roots and 2008 promises to be a further development in the celebration of Ireland's fabulous legacy of country sports'.
  David Wilkinson, Operations Director, pointed out that last year in the Birr Fair there were the largest prize funds ever seen at any Game Fair in Ireland, as well as unrivalled competition structures for each of the two shows. 'In 2008 this has been further developed into All Ireland Championships in Clay Shooting, Fly Casting, Gundogs and Terrier & Lurchers. Nearly 200 sporting organisations and commercial and tourism interests have come together to help stage the two Fairs. We have secured major sponsorship to give us a prize fund of nearly €100,000. There will be stunning displays and exhibitions which touch almost every rural sporting theme and interest.'
  Philip Lawton, Director of Countrysports, gave details of the competitions which will include qualifying heats at Shane's Castle on the 21st and 22nd of June and heats at Birr on the 30th and 31st of August. From 2009 onwards two finals will be staged annually in each location.
  The clay competitions at Birr are organised by the team from the Birr Castle Shooting Syndicate headed by Seamus Glennon and Seamus Pierce, and are designed to appeal to game and clay shooters of all standards.
  The class winners at Birr will go forward to meet the finalist from Shane's Castle to compete for a superb Beretta EELL shotgun worth €10,000 sponsored by David Brennan from Ardee Sports and to compete for the title of the first All Ireland Game Fair Champion.
  In 2007 in some ways Gundogs took pride of place at Birr Castle with national and international competitions on both days sponsored by Massbrook Pet Foods. Once again Saturday sees international and national spaniel tests organised by the English Springer Spaniel Club of Ireland with a supporting minor breeds event organised by the Irish Water Spaniel Club. 
  On Sunday it is the turn of the retrievers with National and International Retriever Tests organised by the Broadmeadows Gundog Club. Participants could eventually win a dog trailer worth €6,000.
  The organisers say that the Fair will host one of the best outdoor angling shows ever mounted in Ireland. The competition classes include a Youth's Class and a Ladies Class and cash and tackle amounting to €1,500 can be won.
  The organisers are particularly keen to involve local commercial interests and are offering specially discounted exhibition rates for County Offaly exhibitors in the tented village. (For further details email: irishgameandcountryfair@yahoo.ie or call 048 90483873.)

5/6/2008
Warmest May In Over A Century At Birr

It was the warmest May in over a century of record at Birr, Met Eireann revealed this week.
  Birr also recorded the highest and lowest temperatures in the country over the three Spring months and recorded the lowest seasonal total of rainfall and lowest seasonal total of sunshine over the same period.
  Mean air temperatures for May were above normal everywhere and were more than three degrees higher than normal in western areas. It was the warmest May in over a century of record at the long-term stations of Dublin  (Phoenix Park), Malin Head and Birr, while at Valentia Observatory, the mean temperature for this month of 13.5°C equalled its previous highest May value, recorded in 1940. There was neither air nor ground frost during the month at the majority of stations, but five or six ground frosts were recorded in some inland areas. 
  It was a very dry month over much of the country, with less than half of the normal May rainfall in places, but isolated heavy or thundery showers on a number of days brought totals close to normal at stations in the south and southwest. A number of stations recorded their driest May since 1991.
  Between 4 and 13 wetdays were measured during the month (days with 1mm or more rainfall), around half of normal for May in many places. It was a sunnier than normal month at almost all stations,especially in the north and west, where totals were more than 35% higher than average. The first half of May was particularly sunny,with daily values of over 10 hours on many days. 
  The report for the months of March, April and May showed mean air temperatures for the season were between a half and one degree above normal almost everywhere, with highest departures from normal in the west of the country. Temperatures were close to normal values in both March and April, but May was exceptionally warm, especially over the western half of the country. 
  Temperatures rose above 20°C at many inland and western stations during the second week in May, with the highest spring maxima for between 5 and 11 years recorded during this period at many stations. The lowest temperatures of the season were associated with a spell of very frosty weather between March 17th and 19th, when ground temperatures fell below -10°C at Birr; there was a total of 47 ground frosts during the 3-month period recorded at this station, compared with its seasonal average of 32. 
  Rainfall totals for the season were close to normal generally. Both April and May were relatively dry except in parts of the west, but March was a very wet month in many areas. The number of wetdays (days with 1mm or more rainfall) measured during the season was close to or higher than normal; there were between 33 and 51 wetdays compared with the normal range for spring of between 32 and 42. Many stations recorded their highest daily falls of the season between March 28th and 31st. 
  Sunshine totals for the season were well above normal generally, with each of the spring months being sunnier than normal. At no station was it as sunny as spring of 2007, however, which was the sunniest on record in many places. Just over 15 hours of sunshine were recorded at Malin Head on May 26th. 

Extreme Values For Spring
Rainfall 
  Highest seasonal total: 319mm at Valentia Observatory. 
  Lowest seasonal total: 145mm at Birr. 
  Highest daily rainfall: 40.7mm at Valentia Observatory on May 21st. 
Temperature 
  Highest mean seasonal temperature: 10.2°C at Valentia Observatory. 
  Lowest mean seasonal temperature: 8.1°C at Knock Airport. 
  Highest temperature: 25.0°C at Birr on May 12th (its highest spring temperature since 1997). 
  Lowest air temperature: -4.1°C at Casement Aerodrome on March 18th. 
  Lowest grass minimum temperature: -10.9°C at Birr on March 18th. 
Sunshine 
  Highest seasonal total: 573 hours at Malin Head. 
  Lowest seasonal total: 449 hours at Birr. 
  Highest daily sunshine: 15.3 hours at Malin Head on May 26th (its highest daily spring value since 1997).

Extreme Values For May
Rainfall 
  Highest total: 103mm at Valentia Observatory. 
  Lowest total: 16mm at Malin Head (its driest May since 1975). 
  Highest daily rainfall: 40.7mm at Valentia Observatory on 21st. 
Temperature 
  Highest mean monthly temperature: 14.0°C at Shannon Airport (its warmest May since records began there in 1945). 
  Lowest mean monthly temperature: 11.6°C at Dublin Airport (its warmest May since 1992). 
  Highest temperature: 25.0°C at Birr on 12th (its highest May temperature since 1997).
  Lowest air temperature: 0.6°C at Dublin Airport on 20th.
  Lowest grass minimum temperature: -2.9°C at Casement Aerodrome on 20th. 
Sunshine 
  Highest monthly total: 265 hours at Malin Head (its sunniest May since 2000). 
  Lowest monthly total: 173 hours at Cork Airport. 
  Highest daily sunshine: 15.3 hours at Malin Head on 26th (its highest daily value for May since 1997). 

5/6/2008
Rath School Wins National Award For Foras Na Gaeilge

Scoil Naomh Eoin, Rath, was one of 21 schools to receive an All-Ireland award from Foras na Gaeilge, recognising outstanding commitment to spoken Irish last week.
  Foras na Gaeilge announced the results of its schools scheme ‘GLEO’ at a  ceremony hosted by them and Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD and Education Minister Caitríona Ruane MLA. 
  The scheme recognises best practice in the promotion of oral Irish in creative and innovative ways in English-medium primary and post-primary schools on the island of Ireland. A total of 21 schools, North and South of the border were recognised for their commitment to spoken Irish throughout the school. 
  Scoil Naomh Eoin was one of the twenty one successful schools recognised. 
  The ‘GLEO’ scheme was introduced by Foras na Gaeilge as part of their goal to normalise the Irish language on an everyday basis. It aims to recognise schools that provide the perfect environment in which to encourage such usage from a young age.
   Scoil Naomh Eoin was recognised for their outstanding commitment to spoken Irish, inside and outside the classroom. This year the school has been involved in promoting the Irish language with signage throughout the school, producing Irish teaching resources and Irish drama classes. The school also encourages parents to speak Irish both in the school and at home.
  Speaking at the awards ceremony, Ferdie Mac an Fhailigh, CEO of Foras na Gaeilge, said 'Foras na Gaeilge are delighted to recognise the efforts being made by schools to encourage the spoken language with their pupils. The 21 successful schools with us today are shining examples of schools that completely changed pupils’ attitudes towards the spoken language and improved their competency. They are exemplars of how to implement best practice in a whole school context and to bring the language alive for pupils, staff and parents.’
  Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe said 'I congratulate Foras na Gaeilge on their achievements with the GLEO scheme, in promoting spoken Irish in schools and on the pioneering role that they have taken in organising this on an all-island basis. This scheme draws together two jewels which are of the utmost importance to our society and our future together, that is, our youth and the Irish language'.
  Education Minister Caitríona Ruane congratulated the 'GLEO' winners and praised Foras na Gaeilge for their work in promoting the Irish language. The Minister said; 'The GLEO scheme gives worthy recognition to the valuable work being done in schools to encourage and support the use of Irish. Children who have early access to a second language have a great start to their education, and if that language is Irish, it can only help to enrich their understanding of their own culture.'
  Schools who applied for the scheme were assessed by a panel selected by Foras na Gaeilge. A shortlist of up to six schools at each level was drawn up for each region. After a thorough adjudication programme, 21 schools across the island of Ireland were selected for the GLEO award. The successful schools received €3,000 (£2,000) which is to be divided as follows:  €1,750 / £1,200 to the school for Irish-language resources, €1,250 / £800 to fund projects or events which promote the Irish language throughout the school.

5/6/2008
Room In Memory Of Librarian Violet Doolin Opened In Birr Library

A room was unveiled in Birr Library on Friday last in memory of the late revered Birr Librarian Violet Doolin by Chairman of Offaly County Council Cllr Eamon Dooley. Violet served as a Librarian where the library was originally located in John's Mall in Birr from 1942 up to 1991. The room is to be used for children's storytelling while a portrait of her is also in the room.  
  Tributes were paid by those who gathered and some of the various speakers who paid glowing tribute and plaudits in her memory. She served for almost fifty years as a librarian and during that time would have met a very many people who would come into the library to get books and return them.  
  Speaking at the unveiling County Librarian Ann Coughlan said it was a fitting tribute to her with the unveiling of the room. She described her as a unique person who served for a long duration as a librarian in the town. She said she was of the O'Carroll dynasty and was proud of her heritage during her time in Birr.   
  Branch Librarian Pat Dillon read a poem to those in the library. The insightful poem was written by Birr native Eileen Casey who lives in Dublin. A favourite prayer of Violet’s was read by Sister Maeve.   
  Chairman of Birr Town Council Cllr Michael Loughnane welcomed all those who attended the opening, thanked the staff at the library and said it was a great facility. He said Violet was an iconic person and one of the great people of the town over the years, and said she had a great gift with books. He said he was delighted to be paying tribute to her. One could recall her on several occasions in her dark coat from a distance off making her way up John's Mall to open the library.  
  In acknowledging her, Chairman of Offaly County Council Cllr Eamon Dooley said it is a tribute to Violet Doolin that they were holding the official opening of the new room. She came from a strong generation of Birr families, and she was unfailing and helpful to everybody as an individual during that time. He said she was responsible for erecting the Celtic Cross in memory of the poor of Birr.  He added it was fitting that this room was now dedicated to her memory.   
  Violet Doolin was appointed Branch Librarian on 1st July 1942 and paid a fixed salary of £26 per year and her holiday period also was fixed at two weeks per annum.  Cllr Dooley said that the first library at Birr opened at the Courthouse on the 18th July 1942 and remained the service venue until 1964, when the Presbyterian Church at John’s Mall was refurbished for library purposes. Violet was the first librarian and the library’s only staff member during those 49 years and she served with commitment, pride and distinction.  
  In the early 1960s, it was Violet, who suggested the Presbyterian Church to Paddy Daly the then County Librarian, as a possible library building and she took great pride in the building itself and the services she provided there. Cllr. Dooley paid tribute to Violet Doolin stating that she served generations of Birr families and knew the names of every child who visited her in John’s Mall. And she took great interest in the future lives and careers of her young readers. She was unfailingly helpful to all, especially to individuals who needed the most help. Individuals who remember her, have very fond memories of her. She had a very positive influence on many lives, both young and old.
  She erected the Celtic Cross in the Workhouse graveyard. This was prior to any Great Famine commemorations, which subsequently followed in the latter 1990s. She alone felt that the poor of mid-nineteenth century Birr should have at least some memorial in their name and from own resources, funded the erection of a fine Celtic Cross in honour of those who died in Birr Workhouse.
  It is unique occasion that Offaly County Council should see fit to name a room in this august building in honour of a deceased official. Violet Doolin gave generously of her talents, time and abilities on behalf of the Council and it is fitting that this room is named in her honour. 
  To end the proceedings, a number of pieces were performed by the Choir of the Mercy Convent Primary School with some Irish traditional dance to the great enjoyment of the large gathering.  

5/6/2008
Birr News Digest

Birr Stage Guild Says Thanks

Birr Stage Guild would like to say a big thank you to all who helped to make the recent 50th Anniversary Celebrations such a memorable and enjoyable occasion. To patrons, sponsors and advertisers, both on this occasion and through the years, who enable the Guild to meet the high costs of productions. To committee members, sub-committees, past and present members, friends and well-wishers, who gave  their time and talents to the celebratory Mass, the exhibition, and the G&S production. To all who contributed to the 50th Anniversary Magazine, in particular Tony Hogan, editor, and Sean Hanniffy, photoarchivest. To all from near and far who attended the events of the weekend. To the special guests of the 50th Anniversary year, Annie Noonan, Gerry Dolan and Frank McNamara for celebrating with us and passing the legacy of Birr Stage Guild on to the next generation.
   The next event in Birr Stage Guild's calendar is it's Childrens Theatre Summer Camp, from July 7th-11th, in Birr Theatre & Arts Centre. Call (057) 9122911 for details. Keep in touch with all Birr Stage Guild events on www.birrstageguild.com  

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  The Inter Firms competition, which is once again kindly sponsored by The Sportsman's Dream, Nenagh, has now started. The schedule of matches is now displayed on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. The competition is divided into two sections and will continue over the next three weeks. The competition will be completed by the end of June as the presentation Barbecue has been arranged for The Chestnut on Friday June 27th.
  Beginners nights have started on Tuesday nights at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  The club's Senior Open Week will take place from Sunday June 29th to Saturday July 5th.
  Membership for the year is now due. Membership fees have remained the same as last year, so provide very good value for money. Seniors €125, family €175.

This Week At Birr Theatre & Art Centre
  There are tickets available for Martin Hayes (undoubltedly the greatest Irish fiddler of his generation), who will be joined on stage by guitarist Dennis Cahill on Wednesday 4th June, 8p.m. Hayes and Cahill have been in Japan and Australia already this year promoting their album Welcome Home Again - come along and welcome them back to Birr.  
  Des Bishop on Friday 6th June is sold out, however, Des will return in the autumn.  
  Experience the joy of movement and dance on Tuesday 10th and Wednesday 11th June with Legitimate Bodies Dance Company. If you are aged 18 months or 100 years old, come and join Nick & Cristina in this celebration of dance for everybody. Tuesday 10th June:  Toddlers 10.15-11.15a.m.; Senior Citizens: 11.30a.m.-12.45p.m.; Pregnant 1-1.45p.m.; Post Natal 2.30-2.30p.m. Wednesday 11th June: Adult Ballet 6.30-7.45p.m.; Adult Jazz  8-9.15p.m. 
  On Wednesday 25th June Opera Theatre Company will perform Bastien & Bastienne - a short opera written by Mozart at the tender age of 12. This is an ideal evening for the family. Tickets €15/12 (Family of 1 adult and 2 children: €35). Full details of all events and online ticket sales for Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on www.birrtheatre.com or contact box office on (057) 9122911.
 
Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club will host a Garden Party Evening, on Wednesday 11th June at 8.30p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. This will be their final get together before they break up for the summer. After the AGM, which will take place on the night, they will have lots of lovely nibbles, wine and a bit of craic. There will be extra raffle prizes on this occasion, so don't miss out!!
  Please remember the Gardening Trip to Rathwood Home Gift & Garden World, Rath, Tullow, Co.Carlow, which takes place on Saturday 5th July. Bus leaving Ballyegan Hall at 9.30a.m. The trip costs €20 for members, €25 non-members. All names and money must be given at the meeting on 11th June. Places will not be held otherwise. Looking forward to a great evening!!

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book is available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Cost only €20. Contact the church or parish office.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday 9th of June. The book for this month is 'Their Eyes were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston (chosen by Sheila). New members welcome. Enquiries (057) 9139028.

Birr Garden Club
  Birr Garden Club will have their annual outing on 12th June. They will visit June Blake's garden and nursery and Jimmy Blake's Hunting Brook Gardens in Blessington. On their way home they will also call into Johnstown Garden Centre. Bus leaving the Marian Hall at 8.30a.m. Cost €28. Names and money can be left at Pat Guinan's shoeshop, Main Street, Birr. Non-members welcome.

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto draw were 8, 13, 18, 29. No jackpot winner and one match three winner Jack Pardy, c/o J. Pardy. Next week's draw takes place in Nolans for a jackpot of €11,150. Thanks to the Cherry Tree and everybody who supports the club.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won.  Calling as usual at 8.30pm sharp.
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was won on 12 games by Derek Foley and Pat Smyth. Two pairs had 11 games Bertie Coleman & Tim Hough, Pat Craven & Kieran Guinan. The last game went to Joe Cantwell & Peter Darcy while Jack Corrigan and Adie O'Donoghue won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Peter Darcy, Pat Smyth & PJ Nevin. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.  

Birr Town Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town FC lotto were 14, 21, 24, 29, bonus number 13. No jackpot winner and one match 3 winner receives €200, Emer Purcell, Emmet Street. Next week's jackpot is €5,600 with the bonus number €8,600. The draw takes place in the Swan on Monday, 9th June.  Thank you for your continued support of the lotto.

Birr Town AGM
  The AGM of the Birr Town Football Club takes place in the Clubhouse on Tuesday, June 17th at 8p.m. All are welcome.  

Metabo Demonstration
  Metabo Power Tool demonstration van will be at Haines in Woodlands, Birr on Thursday June 5th from 10a.m. to 5p.m. (See Advert).

Greg Smith Menswear
  Greg Menswear has re-located to Main Street, Birr (057) 9125472. (Advert)

Social Dancing
  Social Dancing in Rath Community Hall on Thursday June 5th. Music by Sam O'Doherty.

Kinnitty Drama
  Kinnitty Children's Drama Group in association with Jared Madden School of Speech and Drama, presents 'Once Upon A Time' in Kinnitty Community Centre on Thursday June 5th. An exciting night is promised - full of music, song and comedy. Curtain up at 8p.m. Suitable for all age groups.

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Childminder Coffee morning
  Childminder Coffee morning will take place in Jumpin' Jacks, Tullamore on Thursday 19th June. This event is open to Childminders and those who are thinking of becoming a childminder. Please phone Fiona on  (057) 9370630 for more details.

Skate Board Park
  Please note a public meeting will be held in Dooly’s Hotel on Thursday evening June 5th at 7.45p.m. to examine the feasibility of providing a skate park in Birr. More details next week.

Birr Tourist Information Office
  Birr Tourist Information Office is now open for the 2008 season. It is located in The Civic Buildings, Wilmer Road, Birr and is open from 9.30a.m. until 5.30p.m. Monday to Saturday inclusive. The Office is closed for lunch from 1p.m.– 2p.m. each day.
  For enquiries and information please contact Mary or Breda on (057) 9120110.
 
Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

5/6/2008
Dancers Honoured At Big Set Dancing Festival In Birr

There was a large turnout of set dancers from all parts of Ireland and abroad - one group came from Corsica - at the Birr Comhaltas Set Dancing Festival held in the Marian Hall over the Bank Holiday weekend. The event consisted of three huge ceilithe, a workshop on set dancing and also one on solo traditional dancing, as well as a session of traditional music and singing held in the Chestnut Lounge on Saturday night.
  Three new ceili bands were invited to play for the three ceilithe and gave excellent performances and were equally popular with the dancers. The Copperplate got proceedings underway on Friday night, with the Abbey taking the stage for the main ceili on Saturday night. The Five Counties completed the lineup for the final ceili on Sunday afternoon and despite the heat a large number of dancers waited on for this and thoroughly enjoyed it.
  Padraig and Roisin McEneany were very pleased with the turnout for the set workshop on Saturday and were able to teach a number of new sets to the large attendance. John Creed provided a very informative solo dance workshop and introduced a few new steps.
  The organisers, the members of the Birr Branch of Comhaltas, who are celebrating 50 years this year, decided to honour a member who had helped pioneer the teaching of Irish Dancing in the area back in the 1950s. The Marian Hall opened its doors in 1954 and one of the first activities was a weekly practice ceili. This was organised by Willie Smith and the late Eamon Sheppard. They continued to do this work through the Comhaltas Branch down the years and for his work Willie was presented with 'Gradam na Comhaltais', a specially struck medallion for those who have rendered outstanding service in the promotion of Irish culture.
  The memory of the late Paddy Meade was honoured for his work in the dancing field also. In his early days Paddy helped organise the famous Birr Feis. He joined the Comhaltas Branch at its formation and remained a member until his death. An inscribed piece of Galway Crystal was presented to Paddy's two daughters, Helena Spain and Marie Morrissey. His grandsons Donal and Ronan Morrissey were the chief organisers of the festival.
  Both the lecturers and the supporters were loud in their praise of the work of the organising committee and in particular of the hospitality shown to all.
  Next year's event is now eagerly looked forward to.

5/6/2008
Public Meeting To Highlight Need For Skate Park In Birr

The idea of a skate park in Birr has been floating around for over twelve months. A group of teenagers whose pastime is skateboarding have been campaigning and have already made a presentation to Birr Town Council.
  Presently you will see people skateboarding around the town on the various smooth surfaces, a practise that is not safe for participants or the general public.
  To seek to progress the project a public meeting has been called for next Thursday evening June 5th in Dooly’s Hotel, Birr at 7.45p.m.
  This meeting is open to everyone but a special welcome is reserved for stake board users, their parents and anybody who sees a need for such a facility in the town.
  All public representatives will be invited as we see the need for close co-operation between the Town Council and any committee promoting a skate park.
  The purpose of the meeting is to highlight the need for a safe, secure venue for our young people to pursue their pastime.
  It will be a priority to seek to put a broad based committee in place to drive the project if the meeting believes a skate park is feasible and viable.
  The committee will need to identify a suitable site, examine costing, examine which agency or state funds would be available, and explore possible fundraising events, if it is proposed to proceed.
  There will also be a need to consider insurance cost and care and maintenance of the project.
  Looking at the teens on the street we know there is a demand, this meeting will decide if there is a willingness and enthusiasm to undertake the work involved to provide the facility.
  Whatever your views on a skateboard park for Birr, they would love to hear them on this Thursday night June 5th at 7.45pm. in Dooly's Hotel.

5/6/2008
Tidy Towns Judges Visiting Birr In Near Future

The adjudicators of the national Tidy Towns competition will be visiting Birr in the near future and people are asked to please do everything they can to make the town as spruced up and beautiful looking as possible. Hopefully civic spirit will come to the fore and Birr will receive its best ever Tidy Towns results!
  The first phase of Birr Tidy Towns committee's plan came to fruition on Friday last on Bridge Street with the installation of street furniture. We wish to thank Tody Cox of West Offaly Partnership, who cut out the furniture. This was subsequently assembled and varnished by participants doing a business course in the Jobs Club. Thanks to Brendan O'Loughlin and all the course tutors for their help, to the FAS employees Michael Hansbury, Liam Moran, Michael Carter, Eamon Kelly who installed the planters, picnic bench and bins. 
  A special thanks to Aidan Duffy, Michael O'Brien, Paddy Seery who planted shrubs on Bridge Street; Aidan for cutting the unsightly high grass in the inner Mall. And to Tommy Moody, volunteer and friend of Birr Tidy Towns, whose horticultural advice was much appreciated.
  We intend to place another planter on the High Street side of the bridge and to place three small planters on the walls.
  Thanks as well to Mary Lawlor, Noel Kelly and Tony McLoughlin for removing the weeds on Moorpark street / Drumbane. 
  Birr Fishing Club members completed a much needed cleanup around the waterfall last Wednesday night and this area has been transformed by this cleanup.
  Gratitude as well to the Birr Town Council employee who cut the grass on the route to the Cluid Scurragh housing estates, and to the FAS employees who painted the railings of the Church of Ireland Church.
  The recent painting of commercial property on Main Street has added to the beauty of the town.
  On the negative side there is the broken railings on Hospital Lane, smashed glass and broken bottles in various parts of the town, rubbish on the streets and in the parks - we are asking people to please instead use the public bins provided and we are appealing to those who reside in housing estates to please keep their areas free of litter and rubbish.

5/6/2008
June Events At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Wednesday 4th June
Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill
  Undoubtedly the greatest Irish fiddler of his generation, Martin Hayes’ playing defies ordinary descriptions. Together with his musical partner, guitarist Dennis Cahill they have achieved the delicate balance of tradition versus creativity and innovation, carefully paying respect to the roots of the music whilst creating an engaging new sound. Attuned to each other they are adventurous, enabling them to stretch the music while remaining true to its essential qualities. 
  8p.m. €20/€18
 
Friday 6th June
Des Bishop
  Following on from the hugely successful ‘Fitting In’ Tour, Des is back with a totally original and inspired new live stand-show; ‘Tongues’ which deals with Des’s most recent challenge, taking the ultimate step towards Irishness, by moving to the Gaeltacht to learn his mother tongue. 
  8p.m. €25.
 
Tuesday 10th & Wednesday 11th June
D- Day: Dance All Day
  Are you between 18 month and 100 years old? Than come and join us in this three–day celebration of dance where everybody (really everybody!) can experience the joy of movement and dance.
Tuesday 10th June
  Toddler - 10.15a.m. -11.15a.m.; Senior Citizens - 11.30a.m.-12.45p.m.;  Pregnant - 1.00p.m.-1.45p.m.; Post-Natal - 2.30p.m.-3.30p.m. 
 
Wednesday 11th June
  Adult Ballet - 6.30p.m.-7:45p.m.;  Adult Jazz - 8.00p.m.- 9.15p.m.
Every session €5.
 
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th June
In-Step Stage School presents WHEN YOU WISH……
  A Disney extravaganza of song and dance performed by the multi-talented children of Birr promising an enchanting evening for both children and adults alike. The audience will accompany the children on a fairytale journey through the age of Disney. A great show to celebrate the end of the school year!
  Saturday 14th June 7.30p.m./ Sunday 15th June 3.30p.m. €12/€10 
 
Wednesday 25th June
Bastien & Bastienne
  Opera Theatre Company's Summer Tour is this enchanting one-act singspiel, one of Mozart’s earliest operas written in 1768 when he was only 12. This dramatic love-story tells the story of Bastien and Bastienne, young lovers who are destined to be together – but does the path of true love ever run smoothly? Sung in English with piano accompaniment this charming 50-minute piece is the perfect introduction to opera. A Great Family Night Out!
  8p.m. €15/€12. Family Rate (1 adult 2 children) €35.
 
Sunday 29th June 
Spanish Flamenco Garcia
Reunion Tour
  Emmy-award winner Maestro Garcia on Guitar; maestro Salvador Andrades on Guitar, Jose Parra Vocalist, Lucas Gonzales on Cajon, Martin Deiton on Bass Guitar, and special guest the international flamenco dancer David Lozano. The internationally renowned guitar virtuoso Garcia returns with a vengeance, his superb style and renowned technique weaving a path between pure flamenco and fusion. Garcia, considered by some as a living legend, in a magical reunion evening not to be missed! 
  8p.m. €18/€16.
 
For Further Information check out www.birrtheatre.com

5/6/2008
Madden Scores Four To Give Birr The Midland Shield

Midland Schoolgirls U-12 Soccer; Birr Town 6  Bealnamulla 2
  There were celebrations galore in Killeigh as the Birr girls claimed their second trophy in three years. Birr dominated from the start with Leanne Madden slotting home after five minutes after an inch perfect pass from Erin Byrne. This was to be the first of four on the night for Madden, who also claimed the top scorer of the season award. Captain Shauna Byrne was outstanding and scored Birr's other two goals.  
  The defence of King, Garland, Monaghan and Harding were all brilliant and keeper Emma Hart had little to worry about. Jessica Mahon and Kayleigh Shiels controlled the left and right side of midfield and Leona Tyrell sent ball after ball across the box putting the Athlone side under pressure for the whole match.  A great end to the season!
  Thanks to Kevin Mahon - Alpha Male/Female - who treated players and supporters alike to food and drinks in Macaris after the match.
  Manager Lisa Byrne, Mentor Anne Finnane and all the players enjoyed a night out in Croke Park on Saturday at the Ireland versus Serbia game. Congratulations to Leanne Madden and Emma Hart who have been selected on the Midlands Gaynor Cup team.  

5/6/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Under 14 News
  Our under 14 girls travelled to Clareen to take on Seir Kieran in the championship but were up against a strong home team. There was some very good camogie played on the day but the difference was that Seir Kieran took their scores and Birr didn't. The Birr backline were under constant pressure and Ria Harding made some great saves in goals and Jessica Spain, Ailbhe Kenny, Fiona Guinan and Eimer Teehan played very well in the backs. Rebecca Kinsella, Aoife Joyce and Dawn Whelahan worked hard at midfield while in the forwards Aine Delahunt, Lisa Maher, Ravina Murdock and Hannah McLoughlin tried but couldn't breakdown the strong backline of Seir Kieran.
Ciara Doran, Ciara Ryan, Jane Bracken, Rachel Spain and Sarah Lyons did well when introduced.
  Final score Seir Kieran 4-2 Birr 0-0
 
Senior Training
  As the Junior Cert and Leaving Cert are on for the next two weeks, there will be no training on Tuesday evenings. Training will continue on Friday evening at 7p.m. and on Sunday morning at 11a.m. Best of luck to all the girls sitting exams, we look forward to them all back to full training once they are over as our next game is away to Shinrone on Tuesday 24th June.
 
Club Reunion
  The plans are being put into place for the club reunion and if anyone has any photos newspaper clippings etc that may be of interest, please contact Caroline McCarthy club secretary on (087) 2989019 or any committee member. The date to remember is Sunday 26th October 2008.

5/6/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Volunteers
  The Captains were delighted with the exceptionally large turnout of volunteers on Wednesday evening. Much work was done with strimmers, rakers, diggers and general operatives busy all over the course. Work continues this Wednesday when hopefully more cleaning up will be done. Members are also reminded that sponsorship is requested for course furniture. Francie will be glad to accommodate all who wish to help.
  Members should also note that apart from four temporary greens the old 18 holes are now in play
For Your Diary
  Thursday 5th June; 10.00a.m. Seniors. One draw.
  Saturday 7th June; 3.00p.m. Heineken Mixed v Moate.
  Sunday 8th June; 18h Stableford sponsored by Greg Smyth Menswear.
  Sunday 8th June;  Barton Cup. 3.30p.m. Birr v Mountrath. Four home. Three away.
  Friday 13th June; Drumcullen Classic.
  Saturday 14th June; South Leinster. Birr v Coolattin. Three home. Four away.
  Sunday 15th June; President Michael Liffey’s Prize (GOY). Time Sheet.
  Wednesday 25th June; Loughnane Sisters.
Results
  Sunday 1st June; 18h Stableford. 1st Seamas Breen (5) 43 pts. 2nd Tom King (19) 43 pts. Gross: Cormac Moylan (4) 36 pts. 3rd Martin Hogan (16) 42 pts.
  Seniors, May 28th; 1st   Michael Stephens, Tom Nestor, Michael Langtry  68pts; 2nd  Michael Ashe, David McDowell, Tony Nevin 64pts; Gross: Paul Walshe, Cam Finnerty, Brian Guinan 44pts. Thursday draw at 10a.m.
Ladies’ Golf
  The Senior Foursomes AA Challenge team recorded a convincing win on the return match at home v The Curragh. Congratulations to Captain/Manager Evelyn Lynch and players Kathleen Doorley & Patrice Delaney, Ann Frawley & Gemma Butler and Anne Kenny & Mary Ryan. The Team meets the winner of the match between Cill Dara v Tullamore in the Midland Regional Semi finals.   
  Result of V Par competition kindly sponsored by Allure Health & Beauty, Banagher. 1st Georgina Chambers, 5 up; 2nd Liz Nolan, 4 up (back 9) & 3rd Maura Flannery 4 up.
  Medal Competition sponsored by Allied Irish Bank, Birr will be played on Wednesday June 4th. (Draws at 10a.m. & 2p.m. – arrange partners after 4p.m.) and on Sunday June 8th (Timesheet). On Saturday June 7th & Wednesday June 11th the weekly competition (Stableford this time) will take place. Usual entry conditions apply. 
Inter Club
  Best of luck to our teams who are playing this week. On Saturday the Heineken Mixed under managers Presidents Michael Liffey and Bernie McTague face Moate with three at home and four away. Playing at home are: Kathleen Doorley/Michael Liffey, Ann Kenny/Pat Molloy and Aileen Watkins/Billy Donlon. Away are: Gemma Butler/Bernard Kennedy, Mary Ryan/Paschal Troy, Marie Tooher/Joe Slevin and Tori Baker/Eddie Nevin.
  On Sunday at 3.30p.m. our Barton Cup team under manager Ger Gath play Mountrath with three at home and two away. At home are: John Dwyer/Ger Gath, Shane Guinan/Aidan Hogan, Pat Maher/John Wims.  Away are: Billy Donlon/Tim Kenny and Declan Gath and Pat Molloy.
  Hard luck on our O’Moore team on Sunday who came up against an in-form Athenry team. Manager Brian Guinan was very pleased with his team’s performance and feels that he has the nucleus of a group who will go places in future. At home were: Dick Quinn, Liam Hogan and Thady Clancy. Away were: Eamon Moore, Liam Cashin, Hubert Rigney and Jim Hamill.

29/5/2008
Cutbacks Could Hit Day Care Services In Birr

The provision of Day Care Services at Birr Community Nursing Unit could be hit this Summer by cutbacks in the HSE.
  The HSE said no decision has been taken yet and said it is committed to providing high quality services to the local population but admitted plans were being considered which would result in alteration to the current level of service.
  News broke at the weekend that the Day Care Centre in Birr would close for 10-12 weeks from mid June and this sparked outrage locally. Local politicians voiced their objections and called for a reversal of the decision.
  On Monday an emergency meeting of the Town Council was arranged for Tuesday evening to discuss the issue but following assurances he received later on Monday that front line services in day care in Birr would not be cut, Chairman Cllr Michael Loughnane cancelled the meeting.
  This decision did not meet with the approval of Cllr John Carroll, who said that the statement from the HSE had no guarantees regarding the future of either the Day Care Service, Rehab beds or any other service provided.
  In their statement the HSE said that 'the HSE Laois Offaly Local Health Office is committed to providing high quality services to the population of Laois Offaly. In this context all services are subject to constant monitoring and review bearing in mind the HSE requirement to keep expenditure levels within budget.
  'On the basis of detailed risk analysis and in the context of the requirement to maintain appropriate staffing and safety levels, plans are being considered which may result in alteration to current level of service in the near future.
  At this point in time no final decision has been taken in relation to any curtailment of services in Laois Offaly PCCC but the HSE will of course keep the situation under regular review,' concluded the statement.
  A statement from Council Chairman, Cllr Michael Loughnane said that he 'and the other Fianna Fail councillors from the Birr area have confirmed that there will be no change in front line services in the Birr Community Nursing Unit.'
  'Following reports last weekend that the Day Care Services were to be cutback for the three months of the Summer, I immediately contacted the Director of Community Services and local health manager for Laois/Offaly, Mr Liam O’Callaghan. I outlined to him that this facility is used by many people in the Birr district and is a valuable and critical resource. Cllrs S. Moylan, N. Russell, M. Loughnane and P. Ormond also met with An Taoiseach Brian Cowen last Sunday to convey our concerns.
  'On Monday last, I relayed to Mr O’Callaghan the concern that my colleagues and I had with the proposed cutbacks. After a meeting with Liam’s other Directors in Leinster on Monday morning, he assured me that there was no appetite for front line services to be cut. While working within a tight budget of €187m for Community Services in Laois/Offaly, there are certainly constraints and pressure on funding. However, Mr O’Callaghan assured me that he will do everything in his power to keep within Budget, without cutting frontline services in Day care in Birr. The HSE are currently working on savings in areas like training and travel and will only implement cuts in other areas as a last resort.
  'A couple of local Councillors felt that as Chairman of Birr Town Council, that I should call a special meeting of the Council to deal with this issue. However, following on from Liam O’Callaghan’s positive comments, I have invited him to attend the next meeting of the Town Council in Birr. Liam said that he would be more than happy to attend, to allay the fears of other Colleagues on the Council and the general public.'
  Cllr Loughnane's decision to cancel Tuesday night's meeting did not meet with the approval of Cllr John Carroll who stated that 'having read and re-read the statement issued by Liam O’Callaghan on behalf of HSE, I find it impossible to comprehend on what grounds the chairman of Birr Town Council suspended this evening’s (Tuesday) emergency meeting. There are no guarantees regarding the future of either our Day Care Service or Rehab Beds or any other service provided.'
  'Details of the cuts were relayed to staff last weekend and on Tuesday we are told no final decision has been reached.
  'To me the second paragraph of the HSE statement is a clear signal that cuts in services will be taken place, as they talk of risk analysis, alteration to current level of services etc.
  'They have failed to fill vacancies created by maternity leave etc, failed to provide a panel to be called on to maintain proper staffing and safety levels, failed to meet the staffing levels recommended by independent analysis of staffing levels after opening.
  'I believe Cllr. Loughnane was misguided in his unilateral decision to cancel the emergency meeting in return for a vague statement from the HSE with no commitment on the core subject under debate, the continued operation of our Day Care Service and maintaining our Rehab beds,' said Cllr Carroll.
  In an earlier statement, Cllr Carroll had pointed out that this day care service provides not only for the people of the town but a huge area of South Offaly and is a vital service for its patrons and their families.
   'Having invested millions in providing a state of the art centre, it is disgraceful that it is now proposed to suspend some of its most vital services i.e. day care service and rehab beds.
  'Why are the first cuts in the Health Service always aimed at the marginalised and people with weakest voice? Have we learned nothing from the mistakes made in the past?
   'The public are tired of looking at the millions been squandered by the HSE and its failure to provide the type of care the public are entitled to and expect for the millions been invested in it.
  'We have seen beds left idle in the past, we have seen wards closed down, now they are planning to suspend yet another vital service, it is time to show it is unacceptable and is a wrong policy to pursue.
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin told the 'Tribune' he received a lot of calls over the weekend when word spread that the Day Service would close for 10-12 weeks from the middle of June.
  Initial information seemed to indicate that that was the case but Cllr McLoughlin said that he was informed late on Monday evening that no decision had been taken by the HSE at this stage but they were looking at every avenue and addressing their financial policy for the Community sector.
  Cllr McLoughlin said any temporary closure would have a massive impact on a large area of South Offaly.
  It is a great outlet for them,' he said. 'They play cards, have a chat and are well looked after. There is a waiting list to go to the Day Centre of about 40 people. The staff are highly thought of,' he added.
  He said he was disappointed to hear the news initially as he knew how people looked forward to going to the Day Centre. He said he was informed that it was a staff related issue. He said in that period a lot of staff in the hospitals are on holiday and the staff in the Day Cenre have to fill in for them.
  He described the Centre as a valuable social outlet for the people who use it. He said many of those people lived on their own in isolated areas and they loved going to the Centre as it got them away from that loneliness at home.
  On Monday Deputy Olwyn Enright called on the HSE to immediately withdraw their decision to axe day care services at the Birr Community Nursing Unit for two months, starting in mid-June.
  This proposal, which would see 115 clients left without vital day care services, is simply unacceptable, according to Deputy Enright.
  'Many of these clients are extremely vulnerable and for others day care is the only real social interaction they have in the week. I know personally many people attending day care and it is an extremely important part of their lives. In addition, many vulnerable people who have no other family carers will be left in a particularly difficult position.
  'It is unbelievable that the HSE could ignore the plight of these elderly people. I would also like the HSE to explain to me and the general public how they expect public health nurses, who are already stretched to the limit and beyond, to cope with this additional work load. In addition, the cutting of rehab beds will leave people in pain, and in need of physiotherapy and other services, without proper access to these services.
  'The HSE has been operating under a Government imposed staffing embargo since last year and it is quite clear that the most vulnerable people are becoming victims of this. I call on the HSE to reverse this decision immediately and reassure the staff, and most particularly the patients, that this will not go ahead,' said Deputy Enright.

29/5/2008
Gardaí Target Juvenile Drinking In Birr

Birr Gardaí have decided to tackle juvenile drinking in the town and between Friday evening and Saturday evening last a large quantity of alcohol was seized.
  The seizures occurred in Camcor Park and Sandymount and the owners of the cans and bottles of alcohol were mostly juveniles.

29/5/2008
Public Consultation On Birr Town Development Plan 

A public consultation meeting in relation to the review of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010 and the preparation of the new Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 will be held in Dooly's Hotel, Birr on this Wednesday from 4p.m. to 9p.m.. 
  This plan sets a framework for the proper planning and sustainable development of the town over a six-year period. It includes sets of development policies, development objectives, development guidelines/standards in addition to the ‘zoning’ of land.
  The Planning Authorities have prepared an Issues Booklet which will is available to inspect/collect from Birr Town Council, Library & Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr, and Offaly County Council, Aras an Chontae, Tullamore during public opening hours and on the website at, http://www.offaly.ie/offalyhome/yourcouncil/towncouncil/birrtc/planning/ to assist individuals in making a submission/observation to be taken into account in the preparation of the draft plan. Copies of this Issues Booklet will also be available to collect at the public meeting. 
  The purpose of this booklet is to provide a pre-draft consultaton document which gives a broad overview of the main planning and development issues which relate ot Birr town and environs (including Crinkle) and subsequently to stimulate intest and debate with Councillors, the public and Council officials. 
  Cllr Michael Loughnane, Chairman of Birr Town Council has encouraged people to attend the public consultation session. 'We strongly encourage the people of Birr & Environs and Crinkle to come along Wednesday evening and let us have their views so these can be taken account by the councillors in making the development plan. Birr has a key role to play in the region and the making of a new development plan is an important excercise for the area.'
  These views were echoed by Cllr Eammon Dooley, Chairman of Offaly Co. Council. 'There is an opportunity for people to make written submissions until 27th June and I would encourage people to do so. The Council has produced an easy to read booklet to help people understand the issues involved which is widely available. I would also encourage agents who submit planning applications to involve themselves in the process.'
  'There will be maps and drawings on display on the night to explain the process and there will be staff available to meet people and explain the issues involved in making the new plan. The work on the new plan will only commence in late June after this first round of public consultation is complete and there will be further opportunities for public consultation and to make submissions later in the year when a Draft Birr & Environs Development  Plan is published,' stated Mr Gordon Daly, Senior Planner
  The Council hopes that the general public and interested parties will engage in the process, which will inform the preparation of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016.
  The Issues booklet looks at a variety of areas under a number of headings, including Population & Future Housing Trends; Settlement Policy; Employment & Economy; Infrastructure; Transport; Social, Community & Cultural Development; Environment; Heritage & Conservation; Tourism and Built Form.
  The Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016 sets out a framework for the proper planning and sustainable developmetn for the town and environs over a six year period. It is set with a framework of national and regional policy. It includes sets of development policies, development objectives, development guidelines/standards, in addition to the zoning of land.
  As well as setting out objectives and plans for the coming years, the Issues Booklet, also includes lots of interesting facts and figures about Birr and should provide a lot of useful information for local people on the town and its environs.
  Submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing Town and Environs Development Plan and preparation of the new plan (2010-2016) may be made in writing to the Town Clerk, Birr Town Council, Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr, Co. Offaly or by emailing birrdevplan@offalycoco.ie between 30th April 2008 and 27th June, 2008. 
  Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or email. All submissions to be clearly marked 'Review of Birr Town and Environs Development Plan'. The deadline for receipt of submissions is 27th June, 2008. 
  Further information can be obtained from: Mary Gaughran, Town Clerk, Birr Town Council, Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr. Ph: (057) 9124900, Fax: (057) 9124920
e-mail: birrdevplan@offalycoco.ie or may be found on the Birr Town Council link from http://www.offaly.ie/offalyhome/yourcouncil/towncouncil/birrtc/planning/

29/5/2008
Birr News Digest

Birr Vocational School Past Pupils Reunion
  This is a final reminder to anyone interested in attending, and requiring tickets for, the Birr Vocational School reunion on Saturday 21st of June next in County Arms Hotel, and to avoid disappointment please contact Billy Shaw (treasurer) on (087) 2738926 before 28th May, as tickets are running out fast. The final preparations are now being drawn up and the committee look forward to meeting everyone on the night.

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  The Inter Firms competition is starting this week. The schedule of matches is now displayed on the noticeboard in the clubhouse. The competition is divided into two sections and will continue over the next four weeks. The competition will be completed by the end of June as the presentation Barbecue has been arranged for The Chestnut on Friday June 27th.
  Beginners nights have started on Tuesday nights at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  Membership for the year is now due. Membership fees have remained the same as last year, so provide very good value for money. Seniors €125, family €175.

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book is available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Cost only €20. Contact the church or parish office.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday 9th of June. The book for this month is 'Their Eyes were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston (chosen by Sheila). New members welcome. Enquiries (057) 9139028.

Rambles In Eireann
  Sunday 1st of June meet at 2.30p.m. at the Mill House Pub / Restaurant - approx 14 km from Birr on the Roscrea road. The walk will be to and from Mount St Joseph's and will take about two hours. Visit www.ramblesineirinn.org.

Birr Garden Club
  Birr Garden Club will have their annual outing on 12th June. They will visit June Blake's garden and nursery and Jimmy Blake's Hunting Brook Gardens in Blessington. On their way home they will also call into Johnstown Garden Centre. Bus leaving the Marian Hall at 8.30a.m. Cost €28. Names and money can be left at Pat Guinan's shoeshop, Main Street, Birr. Non-members welcome.

FAI Summer Camp
  The FAI have informed Birr Town FC that the summer soccer camp in Woodfield Park Birr is now full and no more applications for the camp will be accepted. The policy of the FAI is not to accept any walk-ons during the week of the camp as no gear will be available for anyone not booked into camp. Thanks to everyone who applied for the camp.

Busy Bodies Summer Camp
  Busy Bodies Summer Camp takes place in Killeen National School for the month of July starting on June 30th for four weeks. Phone Ann at (057) 91 21842 for more information. Forms can be got from the Credit Union, Birr. Lots of fun and enjoyable month.  

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  An Afternoon Tea Dance takes place on Thursday 29th May. Bring yesteryear back to life in this unique opportunity to socialise and dance to nostalgic music by Last Chance, and if you don’t know the steps, just come along and have a cup of tea. Short performances from Legitimate Bodies members and Offaly Youth Dance will provide great entertainment.
  On Saturday 31st May don’t miss the opportunity to see the Chelsesa Ballet perform excerpts from the best loved classics; Sleeping Beauty, the Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Giselle and Coppelia. A Children’s Ballet Workshop will also take place earlier that day, from 2.30p.m.-6p.m. This will give them the chance to learn some of the dances which the Chelsea Ballet will perform later and also to try on some of the costumes and tiaras worn by the dancers. 
  Kick-start the Summer on Sunday 1st June with Cuba Classico! The Quintet de Urfé, founded in Havana in 1975 to showcase the works of the Urfé family and other Cuban composers of the 20th and 19th centuries, sets out to make the Cuban school of string music known internationally and to give each performance a dynamic flavour, to show the many facets of classical Cuban music to the public. This concert represents a rare opportunity to experience a wonderfully rich and atmospheric blend of Latin American folk and classical music. A unique evening!  
  Martin Hayes & Dennis Cahill take to the stage on Wednesday 4th June. Undoubtedly the greatest Irish fiddler of his generation, Martin Hayes’ playing defies ordinary descriptions. Together with his musical partner, guitarist Dennis Cahill they have achieved the delicate balance of tradition versus creativity and innovation, carefully paying respect to the roots of the music whilst creating an engaging new sound. Attuned to each other they are adventurous, enabling them to stretch the music while remaining true to its essential qualities.?  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Chamber Of Commerce 
  At the May meeting of Birr Chamber of Commerce, a new retail committee was formed. Following this it has been decided to run a series of Full Page Advertising Features in the Midland Tribune. Any member wishing to participate in these adverts will be most welcome to do so. For details, please contact Birr Chamber of Commerce on (086) 0784632.

Childminder Coffee morning
  Childminder Coffee morning will take place in Jumpin' Jacks, Tullamore on Thursday 19th June. This event is open to Childminders and those who are thinking of becoming a childminder. Please phone Fiona on  (057) 9370630 for more details.

Eglish/Rath Community Centre
  An exhibition takes place on Thursday, May 29th at 8p.m. It is an exhibition of artwork and crafts by the local womens group followed by music, song and dance. Those in attendance will be able to see a selection of slides from the Holy Land recently taken by Brian Pey. Anybody exhibiting pictures are asked to please have them in the hall at 2p.m. All are welcome and refreshments will be served.  

Mini Marathon
  Womens mini marathon is on Monday June 2nd. Mary Teehan of 25 St Mary's Terrace, Shinrone, will take part. This is Mary's 16th year in succession to participate in this event. All sponsorship raised by her will be donated to Action Breast Cancer. Anyone wishing to sponsor Mary may do so by contacting her at the above address.
    
Skate Board Aark
  Please note a public meeting will be held in Dooly’s Hotel on Thursday evening June 5th at 7.45p.m. to examine the feasibility of providing a skate park in Birr. More details next week.

Birr Tourist Information Office
  Birr Tourist Information Office is now open for the 2008 season. It is located in The Civic Buildings, Wilmer Road, Birr and is open from 9.30a.m. until 5.30p.m. Monday to Saturday inclusive. The Office is closed for lunch from 1p.m.– 2p.m. each day.
  For enquiries and information please contact Mary or Breda on (057) 9120110.

Little Brosna & Camcor Fishing Club
  The annual clean up of the River in association with Birr Tidy Towns, will take place on this Thursday night, 29th May at 8p.m. Meeting point is the Chapel Bridge. All members are invited to attend.    

Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group
  A meeting of Birr Travellers & Settled People's Group will take place in the Methodist Church on Thursday May 29th at 8p.m. All are welcome.

Chesterfield Community Centre
  The children and staff of Chesterfield Community Centre would like to thank everyone who contributed to our cake sale on Saturday. They raised an amazing €448. This will go towards the high cost of running this year's Summer Camp. A special thank you to the people who donated prizes for the raffle. They include Joey O'Loughlin, Cherry Tree, Londis, Birr, Paddy Walsh, the Kirwan family.  The winners of the raffle were Diane Mitchell, John Murphy, Joanna Maloney, Rebecca Nevin-McEvoy. Remember keep voting on the AIB Better Ireland Programme by texting Birr followed by A to 53099.

Birr Mart
  Bullocks; 2 CH 408, €790; AA 640, €1,040; LIM 515, €990; 4 FR 609, €1,045; HER 580, €1,035; 715, €1,380; 2 CH 590, €1,030; 2 LIM 695, €1,130; 4 HER 604, €1,030; BB 550, €1,010; 4 LIM 539, €1,020; LIM 455, €910.
  Heifers; LIM 515, €950; 4 HER 374, €695; 2 HER 505, €875; CH 440, €855; CH 575, €1,085; CH 425, €850; 5 CH 282, €630; HER 575, €995; CH 555, €1,000; CH 420, €855.
  Cows; 2 FR 603, €660; FR 675, €860; FR 485, €500; FR 470, €580.
  Please note Cattle Sale as usual next week Bank Holiday Monday.  

Eglish Cumann Fianna Fail
  Eglish Cumann Fianna Fail would like to thank everyone who contributed to their Church Gate collection on the weekend of 10th to 11th May. Your continued support is very much appreciated. Voters are reminded to come out and vote on Thursday, June 12th in the Lisbon Treaty Referendum.  

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 13, 14, 16, 22. No jackpot winner and two match three winners receive €75, M. Pardy, c/o J. Pardy, Elizabeth Spain, 26 McAuley Drive. Next week's jackpot for €11,000 takes place in the Cherry Tree. Thanks to the Palace Bar this week.  

Birr Town Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 4, 6, 7, 16, bonus 8. No jackpot winner and six match three winners each get €35. They were as follows Evelyn Bell, Townsend Street, Anne Hogan, Main Street, Tim Rowan, Moorpark Street, Mary Rigney, Main Street, Harry Reynolds, Cemetery Road, Crinkle, Serena Dempsey, Meadowville, Birr. Next week's jackpot is €5,400 with the star prize €8,400.  Next week's draw takes place in Craughwells. Thanks for all your continued support.  

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top prize of €300 if not won.  Bingo patrons please note that bingo this Friday night starts at 8pm sharp.
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was shared on 11 games by Bernie and Enda Carroll, Kieran Coughlan and Sonny Ryan.  Two pairs had 10 games Tom Ryan & Seamus O'Grady, Michael Caffrey & Jimmy Dolan. The last game was won by Jimmy Byrne & Jack Ryan, while the table prize went to Paddy and P.J. Nevin. Raffle prize winners were Michael Moran, Peter Darcy and Liam Shanahan. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games starting at 9pm sharp. 
 
Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

29/5/2008
Birr Stage Guild Marks 50th Anniversary With Exhibition And Commemorative Magazine

Birr Stage Guild marked the golden jubilee of its formation last weekend and recalled successful shows, plays, pageants and musicals presented by the Guild over the last 50 years in Birr town. 
  A commemorative magazine was launched and a show case of photographs was put on display at Dooly's Hotel last Saturday afternoon to mark the Guild's outstanding contribution over the last 50 years to the social development and artistic contribution of its members and supporters throughout the town and surrounding areas. 
  The guild was established in 1958 and one of its primary aims was the encouragement of cultural activities in general and the theatre in particular. As Chairperson of the Birr Stage Guild, Maureen De Forge remarked from extracts of the guild's first programme, the pantomine 'Little Red Riding Hood, 'Its approach to the theatre is based on the principal that the first duty of an amateur company is to serve its own community.' An estimated 10,000 people attended the guild's first pantomine which ran for two weeks. 
  The magazine, which was edited by Tony Hogan, outlines many poignant and entertaining memories from the Guild's half century of community entertainment. The display at Dooly's Hotel was also made possible through the ardent work of Sean Hanniffy who spent many months putting together over 50 years of memories for the public's perusal. A number of the photographs and scenes from the past were also transcribed on to Computer Discs.
  The weekend marked the high point of the Guild's 50 year celebrations and invited to speak to mark the occasion was one of the Guild's most ardent and enthusiastic supporters founder member Frank McNamara, who from the earliest years, both on stage and later as director of plays, pantomines, musicals, helped to carry the legacy of the founding aspirations and passion for theatre to the present generation. 
  Also speaking to mark the occasion was another founder member Gerry Dolan whose superb contribution both in singing and performance down through the years in many roles often became a highlight of many musical productions. 
  Frank McNamara remarked that when Jimmy Fanning founded the Birr Little Theatre back in 1934 it was unique in these islands, 'so much so that the world renowned Time Magazine from America sent representatives to Birr to review its plays. They were followed to Birr by many of the national papers including the Manchester Guardian amongst others.' Frank added that from the outset a number of professional actors took part in the productions in what was a very high standard and professional enterprise. 
  Tribute was also paid to Annie Noonan, the first Musical Director, whose brilliance for many years helped devise, arrange, and direct the music for pantomimes, pageants, Good Olde Days, reviews and musicals. Tribute was also paid to the Guild's many contributors and supporters including Per Johannson from Sweden who has been coming to Birr and supporting the theatre for numerous years. 
  Speaking on the occasion Gerry Dolan gave some interesting anecdotal insights into the Guild's history revealing to the audience the lines from the opening number  on the first pantomine ever performed by the Guild, namely Little Red Riding Hood, 'Good evening friends. How about some cheer before the evening ends. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow is far away but lets have a real good evening friends.'
  Gerry added, 'we cannot bring back those days at the Marian Hall or performing in the Theatre but we can cherish the memories and today is the day for sharing those memories. As I look around at this exhibit of the 50th Anniversary of the Guild we have very beautiful memories and many very happy days, evenings and great nights to recall.'
  Gerry concluded on the thoughtful note, 'Today's our Golden Jubilee and we want you all to know how we looked when we were young 50 years ago.'
  Also as part of the weekend of celebration of the Guild's Golden Jubilee Mass was celebrated in St. Brendan's Church on Sunday. Fr Tony Cahir PP recalled the original meeting of the Guild which took place on the 26th of October at the parochial House. 'Since that time,' Fr Cahir remarked, 'over a hundred productions have taken place affording a great opportunity to artists, musicians and script writers helping to develop the talent of the people in the area.' 
  Fr Cahir referred to the great Lourdes pageant/play put on in 1958 to mark the centenary of the Our Lady's apparition at Lourdes. Fr Cahir added that people travelled from the four corners of Ireland to see the spectacular presentation of the appearance of Our Lady in a  pageant at the Marian Hall. Fr Cahir explained that the reactions from the crowd drew gasps of wonder when they saw the transformation take place on the stage set out as the rock of massabielle (massabielle is the rock onto which is set the basilica at Lourdes). The pageant was entitled, 'Beyond the Mill' and was written, produced, designed and Directed by J.I. Fanning.
  Fr Cahir also recalled a beautiful production of an AIMS Choral Festival which was hosted by the Stage Guild and in particular the beautiful rendering of the Hallelujah chorus at the end of the evening prayer, 'it was so beautiful that it made goosepimples stand up on the back of your neck.'
  Fr Cahir added that a similar success was enjoyed last Sunday where people remarked on the outstanding musical performances during the Lourdes Mass. Outstanding musical performances were heard on Trumpet by Paul Hensey, Organ (Enda O'Connor) and by the Choir which was directed by Gerry Dolan. 
  Fr Cahir also complimented the dressing of the altar and the presentation of gifts which was executed most dutifully by the Corcoran Windsor School of Dancing with Michael Campbell leading the Choir in the hymn, 'we come to your feet.' 
  Other choral contributors on the day included Deirdre Hanniffy, Gerry Dolan, Tommy Lyndon and Ann Hogan. The lessons were read by Michael Donegan and Ann O'Callaghan and prayers led by John Irwin, Dawn Legace and Kathleen Garahy. The very creative sacred space was mounted by Agnes O'Brien and Peggy Dolan of the Altar Society. 

29/5/2008
Extension To Oratory Opened At St Brendan's CS 

The official opening of the new extension to the St. Mary's Oratory at St Brendan's Community School, Birr, which  place last Thursday evening, was performed by Mos Rev. Willie Walsh, Bishop of Killaloe who conducted a blessing of the oratory. 
  School Principal, Mr Tom Foley  welcomed all those present at the opening including School Chaplain Fr Pat Gilbert., Bishop Willie Walsh, Rev. Wayne Carney, Rev Colin Gracie, Fr Tony Cahir PP, staff members, past and present pupils.
  Mr Foley remarked that this was a very special occasion for the school as it brings to fruition a project that has taken place over many years. Mr Foley commented that the extension at St Mary's Oratory was not merely a simple building extension onto the existing octagonal building but also an extension of the schools' spiritual education.
  The oratory is used for many different activities and caters for Leaving Cert examinations including language exams. It is also used for interviews, prayer meetings, counselling and above all provides a place of solitude for students, a place of meditation and relaxation. As the Principal pointed out, 'it provides an oasis of tranquillity away from the hustle and pressures of work in the school. It is a place where students can quietly reflect in thought.'
  Mr Foley extended his gratitude on behalf of St. Brendan's Community School to the number of people and bodies who contributed to making St. Mary's Oratory a reality. 'We have had a substantial contribution from the local community some of whom wish to remain anonymous, yet we recognise their invaluable input nonetheless. We have had contributions from Birr Lions Club, The Presentation Order, The Order of Mercy, The Parish of Birr and the Parents' Council to name but a few.'
  'I want to thank our architect Derek Coulter for his work on the original oratory and also for his work on the completion of St. Mary's. Derek often consulted our Chaplain Fr Pat and others and took into consideration their ideas and vision. I think it is important that we also recognise the input of the original people involved in this project, in particular my predecessor Brother Denis.'
  Mr Foley, explaining why it was so necessary to have an oratory for the school, remarked 'although the school has so many excellent facilities in so many areas from science, technology, sports and gym facilities there was, however, no particular space solely dedicated to spiritual and pastoral development. To have a special place dedicated to students where they can come to pray or to seek pastoral care and counselling is an essential facility to help towards the spiritual development of our students.'
  Complimenting the hard work undertaken for the pastoral care of the students by Fr Pat Gilbert, Mr Foley added that the task of caring for 750 students is a uniquely challenging duty for the school chaplain. 'The chaplain has an extensive influence for good in the school, not only in teaching in the classroom but also in many other roles of pastoral service. It is a task of enormous responsibility and hardwork.'
  'In real terms Fr Pat and his team and the staff must counsel, advise and minister to all the students who seek both advice and guidance at crucial points in their lives.' Mr Foley added that the oratory provides in real terms a place where troubled students can find genuine solace away from the crowded environment of the school, 'a place where a professional and a dedicated team can help them. The oratory provides a vital role in that undertaking, it is the Spirit Lab of the school. And the school is also very grateful to all its other associated chaplains in the community, I speak of Rev Carney and Rev Colin Gracie and also of the work of Fr Cahir and the St. Brendan's Parish of Birr.'
  Mr Foley added that the school chaplain and associated chaplains are a very important influence in teaching students about these traditions. 'They teach and guide those students who are interested in following the religious life and vocations but they also carry on the Christian tradition of involving students in voluntary and missionary work.'
  Mr Foley concluded by noting that the St. Mary's Oratory represented the embodiment of a vision and ongoing mission to bring Christian values and traditions into the lives of the students of St. Brendan's Community School. 
  Mr Foley added further that role of counselling has become a central part of the work of the school.

29/5/2008
Birr Girl Guide Receives Top Guiding Award

A Birr Girl Guide was recently presented with the top award in guiding, the Gold Award.
  Aisling Guinan from Whiteford, Birr, is the first member of the Birr Girl Guides to receive this award. About 30 Guides from all over Ireland were presented with their gold pins and certificates at an awards at a ceremony in Dublin recently by the President of the Irish Girl Guides. 
  Aisling was one of the youngest to receive the award. You have to be 13 to do the award and Aisling is only thirteen and a half. However she has been collecting other awards up along and that enabled her to go for the award at such a young age. 
  Aisling is a patrol leader of her Pack in the Birr unit. She has been working for her other badges over recent years. They include Copper Beech, Spruce and Silver Birch and the Gold Award is the highest award you can get. 
  To qualify for one of these badges you have to do five challenges and there are four optionals as well for each. Among the things you can do as part of the awards are everything from angling to camping, writing, DIY and farming. You pick what you are interested in and these are awarded within your own pack locally. 
  They all count then towards the Gold Award but there are additional challenges associated with the Gold award as well. 
  Linda Dowling is the Guide Leader in Birr and she was also in Dublin for the presentation ceremony.
  Aisling started in the Brownies locally before moving on to the Guides and her sisters are following in her footsteps as one is currently a Ladybird and another is a Brownie.
  Congratulations to Aisling on her achievement and well done.

29/5/2008
Birr Community Games

Art And Model Making
  Seven competitors travelled to Mosney last weekend from Birr to compete in the National Finals.  A huge congratulations to Sufyan Anjum who won a bronze medal in the Boys U-12 Art competition.  The standard as always was very high so well done Sufyan.  
  Well done also to Conor Sampson, Emily O'Brien, Leah Kelly, Kara Sampson, Aaron Murtagh and Elizabeth Harding for reaching the fnals. Thanks to their parents who travelled with them.
Athletics
  Our local heats took place last Saturday morning. Thankfully the sun kept shining on the day. Thanks to all who helped on the day especially John Gleeson, John Irwin, Valerie Reynolds, Marie Brady, Margaret Irwin, Catherine Barry, Josephine Rigney, Siobhan Rigney, Noel Coughlan, Dominic Sheehy, Tony Murphy and Michael Kenny.
These are the Results
Boys 
  U-8 60m: 1. Sean Thompson; 2. James Harding; 3. Oran O'Neill.  80m: 1.Sean Thompson; 2. Oran O'Neill; 3. James Harding.
  U-10 100m: 1. Joseph Kennedy; 2. Oisin Murphy; 3. Brandon Beale. Hurdles: 1. Joseph Kennedy; 2. Oisin Murphy; 3. Patryk Kwestarz. 200m: 1. Oisin Murphy; 2. Campbell Boyd; 3. Joseph Kennedy.
  U-12 100m: 1. Ronan Murphy; 2. Niall Dolphin Murray; 3. Dylan Watkins. 600m: 1. Ronan Murphy; 2. Conor Smith; 3. Dylan Watkins.
  U-14 100m: 1. Oisin Clarke; 2. Barry Hehir; 3. Stefan Carroll. Hurdles 1. Oisin Clarke; 2. Barry Hehir; 3. Stefan Carroll. 800m: 1. Barry Hehir; 2. Oisin Clarke; 3. Stefan Carroll.
  Long Puck U-12: 1. Craig Taylor; 2. Daniel O'Meara; 3. Cormac Kenny.
  Shot Putt U-14: 1. Stefan Carroll; 2. Ryan O'Meara; 3. Ciaran Cooney.
  Ball Throw U-12: 1. Donovan Finnerty; 2. Cormac Kenny; 3. Daniel O'Meara.
  Long Jump U-14: 1. Oisin Clarke; 2. Dilan Patel; 3. Stefan Carroll.
  U-6 60m: 1. Tom Erritty; 2. Gavin Carroll; 3. Barry Smith.
Girls 
  U-8 60m: 1. Edel Hoare; 2. Emma Tyrell; 3. Emma Guilfoyle. 80m: 1. Brooke Whelahan; 2. Emma Tyrell; 3. Edel Hoare.
  U-10 100m: 1. Moya Dickson; 2. Grace Gorman; 3. Sarah Harding. Hurdles 1. Sarah Harding; 2. Frances Hoare; 3. Grace Gorman. 200m: 1. Anne Gorman; 2. Laura Maloney; 3. Moya Dickson.
  U-12 100m: 1. Gillian Irwin; 2. Sarah Lyons; 3. Aoife Plunkett. 600m: 1. Gillian Irwin; 2. Aisling Garland; 3. Ciara Maloney.
  U-14 100m: 1. Kayleigh Shiels; 2. Aine Delahunt; 3. Shannon Quegan. Hurdles 1. Kayleigh Shiels; 2. Aine Delahunt; 3. Emily O'Brien. 800m: 1. Shauna Byrne; 2. Rachel Spain.
  U-14 Long Puck: 1. Ria Harding.
  U-14 Shot Putt: 1. Kayleigh Shiels; 2. Amelia Field; 3. Ailbhe Kenny.
  U-12 Ball Throw: 1. Kerrie Byrne; 2. Aisling Garland; 3. Gillian Irwin.
  U-14 Long Jump 1. Kayleigh Shiels; 2. Amelia Field.
  U-6 60m: 1. Lynn Hehir; 2. Nessa O'Neill; 3. Kate O'Meara.
  Well done to all who took part and best of luck to those who qualified for the County Finals in Tullamore on June 7th next.  

29/5/2008
Birr Prepares For Influx Of Set Dancers

The Set Dancing Committee of Birr Comhaltas are preparing for a very busy time over the June Bank Holiday weekend. The annual Set Dancing Festival takes place in the Marian Hall commencing on Friday evening, 30th May and this year the branch celebrates 50 years so something special is anticipated.
  Since its foundation the branch has always taken a keen interest in dancing. The ceili dancing of earlier days has now been replaced by set dancing. At the Saturday night ceili recognition will be given to some of those who pioneered the work of teaching dancing in the early days.
  Three new ceili bands are being introduced to the festival this year. While they may be new to local dancers they are very popular on the national scene. The Copperplate Ceili Band from Co. Fermanagh will get the weekend off to a lively start on Friday night with the opening ceili. On Saturday night the renowned Abbey Ceili band from Cork will take the stage for what is usually the highlight of the weekend, while on Sunday afternoon one of the most popular ceili bands to hit the scene in recent years will take to the stage for a ceili commencing at 3p.m.  They are known as the Five Counties Ceili Band due to the fact that it draws members from five different counties, mainly in the North.
  Padraig and Roisin McEneaney (Louth) will conduct a workshop for set dancers on Saturday commencing at 10.30a.m., and on Sunday John Creed from Waterford will conduct a traditional stepdancing workshop.
  Many of those who visit the festival are also musicians and a special session has been arranged for the Chestnut Bar, and the local musicians and singers will join the visitors for what should be a most enjoyable evening. This event will start at 7.30p.m. and all are welcome.
  There is a huge interest in this event and bookings have been received from all parts of Ireland and some of the dancing strongholds in Britain. It is hoped that as many locals as possible will come and enjoy the craic. It is not necessary to be an expert dancer to enjoy the fun. The workshops cater for all levels and it is hoped that many young people who are currently learning step dancing to avail of the expertise of the McEneanys and John Creed.  

29/5/2008
Birr Tidy Towns - Dwindling Of A Community Spirit

The Birr Tidy Towns committee is appealing to residents to keep their areas free of litter, and to engage in good maintenance such as edging and grass cutting. The committee is asking the people of Birr to be litter conscious: If it's there then please pick it up. 
  'Council staff are picking up litter on a daily basis,' commented Cllr Tony McLoughlin, chairman of Birr Tidy Towns. 'Sadly it seems that a community spirit has dwindled over recent years. 
  'I would like to see Birr doing considerably better in this year's Tidy Towns competition but we are facing many difficulties. Castle Street is not looking especially well, broken glass on Emmet Street is often in evidence.
  'On a positive note the street furniture will be installed next week on Bridge Street.
  'I would like to issue a special thanks to St Brendan's Environmental Group who have been part of the project where FAS workers have assisted Birr Tidy Towns. My thanks too to Cavanagh's Foundry for their financial donation, and to Rita Frawley for printing the cards for the recent sponsored walk, and to the Lawlors for all their work over the last year.
  'The water feature in Mill Island, beside the girls school, will be constructed in conjunction with the safety measures proposed by Birr Town Council for the children going to and coming from the school each day. 
  'On Thursday next Birr Fishing Club will carry out a cleanup on Mill Island and the Tidy Town members have been asked to assist them. The cleanup will start at 7.45p.m.
  'Thanks to all those who supported the sponsored walk and a sincere thanks to Birr Credit Union for their very generous contribution towards the prizes in local competitions, which included such categories as Best commercial shop front, gardens, best Council estate.'

29/5/2008
Birr Technology Centre Receives Promotional Boost

Birr Technology Centre received a boost when it was promoted at a special Shannon Development Knowledge Network Conference held recently at Adare, Co. Limerick. The Conference pulled together all five of Shannon Development’s world class business parks in the Shannon region which are developed specifically to attract and support knowledge-intensive enterprises. The aim of the Conference was to allow key business people from all five business parks to meet each other and network by pooling information, knowledge and expertise.
  'We wanted to create an environment where leading business people from our five business parks could meet and share ideas which could possibly lead to further partnerships, and new investment in the Region. We are delighted with the positive feedback from our client companies who say that the event allowed them to form invaluable new business contacts,' says Eugene Brennan, Executive Director Development and Marketing, Shannon Development.
  The five Shannon Development operated business parks around the region are: Birr Technology Centre in Co. Offaly; Tipperary Technology Park in Thurles, Co. Tipperary; the Information Age Park in Ennis, Co. Clare; the National Technology Park (NTP) in Limerick, and Kerry Technology Park in Tralee. 

29/5/2008
Birr Town Claim Shield Victory

Birr Town Under 10's claimed their second silverware of the season when they claimed the Shield on Thursday in what proved to be the match of the season.  Playing Mountmellick who were also league champions it was always going to be a tough match.
  The first half brought very few chances for either teams, but Mountmellick came the closest when a rifling shot was brilliantly saved by Birr keeper Dillon Murphy.
  And so the match continued at  this pace. Nothing could divide these two teams and after a very hard first and second halves both teams were deadlocked.  Extra time was then called for, ten minutes of extra time was played and still no score.
  When the referee finally blew the whistle penalties loomed and both teams contemplated the outcome.
  Birr's five penalty takers were superb, all firing into the left hand side of the Mountmellick keeper's goal. It was unfortunate for the young Mountmellick player who kicked his penalty to the left side of the post.  But it was Birr's day and there were joyous celebrations at the end of the shootout.
  It has been a fantastic season for the Birr U-10's and with the hard work of the Managers Alan Hoare and Shane Corboy, this team can look forward to a bright future.
 Special thanks to all the parents who travelled to the match and to all the matches, your support is greatly appreciated.
  Thanks to Birr Town FC who very kindly sponsored a meal for the team. To all the 25 boys involved with this team, you have put in a huge effort this season, and we look forward to our new season in September.
  Birr Team- Dillon Murphy; Alex Sarin, Shane Donovan, Joe Curran, Rian Dempsey, Eoin Cahill, Stefan Shalloe (Capt), Joe Corboy, Michael Gilligan. Subs: Luke Fox, Dermot Sheils, Conor Lavin.  
  

29/5/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Under 14 News
  Birr Under 14s travelled to Rath to take on Drumcullen in the championship on Tuesday evening last. Birr were without a few regular first team players and found it hard to deal with the Drumcullens experienced players in their backline especially. Aine Delahunt picked up a hand injury early on and was replaced by Ciara Doran. Ciara Ryan one of the younger girls on the Birr team had a fine game and Eimear Teehan, Jessica Spain, Sarah Lyons and Ailbhe Kenny did really well all evening. Birr tried the best they could but Drumcullen were a much stronger team and will more than likely be in the final and will be hard to stop so Birr will have to put more work in at this level and learn from this game.
  Team: Dawn Whelahan, Jessica Spain, Eimer Teehan, Fiona Guinan, Ailbhe Kenny, Aoife Joyce, Lisa Maher, Ravina Murdock, Aine Delahunt, Sarah Lyons, Rebecca Kinsella, Eimear McMahon, Rachael Spain, Jane Bracken, Emer Grimes, Ciara Ryan, Ciara Doran, Serena Murphy.
 
Sponsored Solo Run
  The Feile panel of players held a sponsored solo run in the Brothers Field on Saturday morning last and it was a great success. The monies raised will go towards the expenses of Feile e.g. buses, catering and tracksuits for the team. Many thanks to the girls who worked hard to get sponsorship and to all those individuals who supported the players. Well done girls!
 
Club Reunion
  All present and former players are invited to the club's 30th birthday celebrations which will take place on Sunday 26th October in Dooly's Hotel, Birr. It is hoped to have as many former players present as possible that have played with club over the last 30 years since the club was formed. So please inform any players who may be away and let them know that they are all very welcome to come along. Further information can be obtained from club secretary Caroline McCarthy (087) 2989019.
 
Congratulations
  The club send congratulations to all the girls who made their Confirmation recently.
 
Sympathy
  The club send their sympathy to the Stephens family on their recent bereavement.
 
Club Meeting
  The next meeting of Birr Camogie Club will take place on Thursday 29th May at 8.30p.m. in Dooly's Hotel. All committee members are requested to attend.
 
Best Wishes
  There are a large number of girls from the club doing exams next week and we wish them all the very best of luck in their Junior and Leaving Cert. Once the exams are over we expect to see them all back at all the training sessions for the rest of the season. A lot of the players have continued to train even though they are studying and there is no better way to clear the head than an hour training in the fresh air, so well done girls! As the college exams are near an end now we hope to see all the college girls back next week.
 

29/5/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Volunteers
  Members who have volunteered to do some work on the course are asked to meet at the clubhouse at 7.00pm on Wednesday evening. Please come prepared to work as the Course Committee has drawn up plans for the evening. The committee appreciates very much the generosity of the members who are prepared to devote their time and energy for the development of the course. Also members should note that there will be a walkabout on the course on Saturday 14th June at 4.00p.m.

For Your Diary
  Wednesday 28th May; 7.00p.m. Meeting of work volunteers.
  Thursday 29th May; 10.00a.m. Seniors. Note only one draw. 
  Sunday 1st June; 18h Stableford.
  Monday 9th June; 10.30a.m. Juveniles (Boys and Girls)
  Saturday 14th June; 4.00p.m. Walkabout on course.
  Saturday 14th June; 2.30p.m. South Leinster v Coolattin. Three home. Four away.
  Sunday 15th June; President Michael Liffey’s prize. 
Results
  May 22nd: 1st David Mc Dowell, Tom King, Ambrose Hughes 69pts; 2nd Paddy Byrne, Dick Quinn, Jim McGovern, Paddy Hollywood 68pts; Thursday as usual. One draw only at 10a.m.
  Sunday 25th May; Hackett Cup Qualifiers sponsored by Ulster Bank, Midland Business Centre: Jonathan Kelly 66. Roger Byrne, Hubert Rigney 67. Denis Flynn 68. Brendan Hogan, Dick Johnston, Jim Egan 69. Donal O’Brien, Michael Yates, Frank Lennon, Martin Young, Joe Slevin, Paschal Troy, Fran Quinn 70. Bernard Kennedy, Louis Vaughan, John Murphy, Michael Coughlan, Enda Carroll, Roddy Molloy, Dermot Harte, John Dwyer 71. Greg Smyth 72. Laurence Smyth, Eddie Nolan, Billy Donlon, Barry Davis, Gavin Young 73. Eddie Nevin, Michael Feighery, Charlie Brophy, Michael Flannery 74.
Kenny Cup
  The draw for the Kenny Cup will take place on next Monday 2nd June. Please put your name on draw sheet by this weekend. 
Juveniles
  The boys and girls in the Juvenile section are reminded that the summer competitions will start on Monday 9th June at 10.30a.m. This important part of our Club activities has grown from strength over the past few years and the organisers are to be congratulated and thanked for all their hard work.  
Ladies Golf
  The ladies of Birr scored yet another victory last week! This time the Boyne Trophy team with Kathleen Doorley & Mary Ryan, Gemma Butler & Maura Flannery and Anne Kenny & Mary Sullivan at Templemore as well as Emer Hanniffy & Rita Delaney and Martina O’Brien & Aileen Watkins at home won decisively. Congratulations to all – Mary Grennan managed the team, but was unable to be on course for the match on Saturday; she was ably represented by Ann McIntyre. Next match is v Carlow. 
  Next Saturday May 31st the Senior Foursomes have their return match v the Curragh at home. We need only to win one of the matches to progress to the semi finals. The Minor Cup will play their quarter final match against Cill Dara on Monday June 9th. Sadly we are no longer in the Newbridge mixed competition. 
  Results of the Stableford competition kindly and generously sponsored by Monaincha Health and Spa, Roscrea: 1st Liz Pardy 31 points;  2nd Mary Lonergan 36 points (21 on back 9);  3rd Margaret Spollen 36 points (20 on back 9).
  Forthcoming events: This week’s competition is kindly sponsored by Allure Health & Beauty, Main Street, Banagher. Draws take place on Wednesday at 10a.m. & 2p.m. – members may play as they like after 4.30p.m. A Medal Competition sponsored by AIB Birr will take place on Wednesday June 4th & Sunday June 8th. The weekly competition on Saturday June 7th & Wednesday June 11th will be Stableford. 
Sympathy
  The members extend deepest sympathy to Michael Stephens and his family on the death of his sister Bernie in Lucan last week. Also to Bernard Wilks and his family on the death of his wife May in Banagher at the weekend.

22/5/2008
Public Consultation Meeting On Birr Town And Environs Development Plan

A public consultation meeting is to be held by officials of both Birr Town Council and Offaly County Council in relation to the review of the Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2004-2010 and the preparation of the new Birr Town and Environs Development Plan 2010-2016. 
  This plan sets a framework for the proper planning and sustainable development of the town over a six-year period. It includes sets of development policies, development objectives, development guidelines/standards in addition to the ‘zoning’ of land.
  The meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 28th in Dooly’s Hotel, Birr from 4p.m.-9p.m.
  The Planning Authorities have prepared an Issues Booklet which will is available to inspect/collect from Birr Town Council, Library & Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr, and Offaly County Council, Aras an Chontae, Tullamore during public opening hours and on the website at, http://www.offaly.ie/offalyhome/yourcouncil/towncouncil/birrtc/planning/ to assist individuals in making a submission/observation to be taken into account in the preparation of the draft plan. Copies of this Issues Booklet will also be available to collect at the public meeting. 
  Submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing Town and Environs Development Plan and preparation of the new plan (2010-2016) may be made in writing to the Town Clerk, Birr Town Council, Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr, Co. Offaly or by emailing birrdevplan@offalycoco.ie between 30th April 2008 and 27th June, 2008. 
  Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or email. All submissions to be clearly marked 'Review of Birr Town and Environs Development Plan'. The deadline for receipt of submissions is 27th June, 2008. 
  Further information can be obtained from: Mary Gaughran, Town Clerk, Birr Town Council, Civic Offices, Wilmer Road, Birr. Ph: (057) 9124900, Fax: (057) 9124920
e-mail: birrdevplan@offalycoco.ie or may be found on the Birr Town Council link from http://www.offaly.ie/offalyhome/yourcouncil/towncouncil/birrtc/planning/

22/5/2008
50 Years Of Memories At Birr Stage Guild Anniversary Exhibition

An exhibition of photographs, programmes, press reports and memories from Birr Stage Guild's 50 years, will be held in Dooly's Hotel, Emmet Square, Birr on this Saturday and Sunday, 24th and 25th May.
  The 50 page Souvenir Magazine will  be launched on Saturday at the Official Opening of the Celebration Weekend, at 1.30p.m. During the past months Tony Hogan, editor, and Sean Hanniffy, photoarchivist, have delved through vast amounts of material, and with help from Stage Guild members past and present, have put together a fascinating picture of the Guild's history.
  To all who have ever been involved with Birr Stage Guild, back-stage, on stage, helping out during the Marian Hall years, the wandering years, the Oxmantown years and now Birr Theatre & Arts Centre years, a big invitation is extended to attend the exhibition.
  The many patrons, sponsors and advertisers without whose support many productions would have been impossible over the years, are also heartily invited to the official launch at 1.30p.m. on Saturday May 24th, in Dooly's Hotel. All are welcome.
 Exhibition times: 1.00p.m.-7.00p.m. Saturday May 24th. 1.00p.m.-5.00p.m. Sunday May 25th.
  On Sunday May 25th, 12.00 Mass will be a celebration Mass for Birr Stage Guild, remembering friends past and present.

22/5/2008
Birr Comhaltas Plan To Celebrate 50 Years

The members of the Birr Branch of Comhaltas will celebrate 50 years of activity during 2008. Details were announced at a special session of music, singing and dancing in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday last. Hosted by branch Chairman Jim Kinsella it featured branch musicians and singers from all over the district and provided top class entertainment for the large attendance. All look forward to many more successful event throughout the year. 
  Branch PRO Padraig Duffy outlined the proposed schedule of activities and began by explaining the origins of the branch and the events which led up to the first significant project undertaken by the branch, a Fleadh Cheoil agus Rince in August 1958. 
  The contribution made to the promotion of Irish Dancing in the area in the 1950s will be acknowledged at the annual set dancing festival which is now part of the regular branch programme at the June weekend. 
  There will be a special awards night in October at which founder members will honoured and the annual branch concert in November will be upgraded. There will also be a workshop for young musicians and singers in conjunction with this. There will be a special youth event in December organised by the youth officer, Olivia Douglas. 
  It is hoped to issue a special commemorative Booklet and the branch officers would like to hear from anyone with memories or anecdotes or old photos from the earlier days to contact them with a view to having these included. Information will be welcomed by Branch Secretary Donal Morrissey at (087) 9347968 or Padraig Duffy at (057) 91 20288.  

22/5/2008
Birr News Digest

Birr Vocational School Past Pupils Reunion
  This is a final reminder to anyone interested in attending, and requiring tickets for, the Birr Vocational School reunion on Saturday 21st of June next in County Arms Hotel, and to avoid disappointment please contact Billy Shaw (treasurer) on (087) 2738926 before 28th May, as tickets are running out fast. The final preparations are now being drawn up and the committee look forward to meeting everyone on the night.

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  Entries are now being taken for the Inter Firms competition. You can enter as a team (two men, two women) or as an individual and be placed on a team. Entries must be in by this Thursday May 22nd as it is planned to start this competition next week. If interested in entering, please write your name on the sheet on the noticeboard in the clubhouse or contact Therese Haverty. The competition will be completed by the end of June as the presentation Barbecue has been arranged for The Chestnut on Friday June 27th.
  Beginners nights have started on Tuesday nights at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  The next Social Tennis Night will be held on this Friday, May 23rd. Come along for a night of fun and enjoyment.

Methodist Church Summer Sale
  Birr Methodist Church annual Summer sale will be held on Friday 23rd May in Frawley's original shop on Main Street, Birr from 10a.m. to 4p.m. Stalls include plants, jams, cakes, children's stall and many more. All welcome and your support would be appreciated.

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book will soon be available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Pre-order your copy now by completing the order form and return to the Parish Office. Cost only €20. Order forms are available in the church.

Corpus Christi Procession
  The Corpus Christi Procession will take place after Saturday evening 7.30p.m vigil Mass on the 24th May. Those taking part will walk from the church to the Prayer Garden at the rear of the church concluding with Benediction. All are welcome. A special welcome is extended to the boys and girls who have just received their First Holy Communion.

24 Hours Of Adoration
  If you have a particular intention or anxiety of any kind come and pray for one hour in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.  Adoration will commence at 7p.m. on Friday, May 23rd in St Brendan's Church and will continue through the night and the following day concluding at 7p.m. on Saturday, 24th May. A time sheet will be left on the Altar rails and you may select the hour that is convenient for you.  

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  Birr Stage Guild’s Gala Anniversary Presentation; The Best Of Gilbert & Sullivan takes place on Saturday May 24th and Sunday May 25th. Ann Hogan (Mezzo Soprano), John Molloy (Bass Baritone), Naoise Stuart-Kelly (Soprano) and The Gilbert & Sullivan Orchestra with Birr Stage Guild Chorus present some of the best loved overtures, choruses, quartets, duets and solos in a memorable evening of music and song. A night not to be missed!!
  An Afternoon Tea Dance takes place on Thursday 29th May. Bring yesteryear back to life in this unique opportunity to socialise and dance to nostalgic music by Last Chance, and if you don’t know the steps, just come along and have a cup of tea. Short performances from Legitimate Bodies members and Offaly Youth Dance will provide great entertainment.
  On Saturday 31st May don’t miss the opportunity to see the Chelsea Ballet perform excerpts from the best loved classics; Sleeping Beauty, the Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Giselle and Coppelia. A Children’s Ballet Workshop will also take place earlier that day, from 2.30p.m.-6p.m. This will give them the chance to learn some of the dances which the Chelsea Ballet will perform later and also to try on some of the costumes and tiaras worn by the dancers. 
   Kick-start the Summer on Sunday 1st June with Cuba Classico! The Quintet de Urfé, founded in Havana in 1975 to showcase the works of the Urfé family and other Cuban composers of the 20th and 19th centuries, sets out to make the Cuban school of string music known internationally and to give each performance a dynamic flavour, to show the many facets of classical Cuban music to the public. This concert represents a rare opportunity to experience a wonderfully rich and atmospheric blend of Latin American folk and classical music. A unique evening!
  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday.
  Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Social Tea Dance
  Social tea dance in Carrig Community Hall, Birr on Thursday May 22nd. Dancing 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Music by Checkers. 

Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club would like to extend a big thank you to P.J. Kavanagh of Birr Garden Centre for his generous hospitality last Wednesday night when Mary Cahill from 'Sunflowers' gave a wonderful presentation on filling hanging baskets and pots for patios and decking. Refreshments were laid on by his family and a most relaxed evening was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to everyone who made the night possible. 
  Next meeting will be on June 11th when they will have their AGM and finalise details of their garden trip to Carlow, which will take place on Saturday July 5th.

Chesterfield Community Centre
  The Centre will host a cake sale on Saturday 24th May from 11a.m. to 1p.m. This is in aid of this year's summer camp. Your support would be much appreciated. Keep voting for the centre in this year's AIB Better Ireland programme by texting BIRR followed by A to 53099. For more details contact Sheila on (057) 9122289.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday 9th of June. The book for this month is 'Their Eyes were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston (chosen by Sheila). New members welcome. Enquiries (057) 9139028.

Crinkle NS Parents Association
  Crinkle NS Parents Association is holding its annual coffee morning on Saturday 24th May from 10a.m. to 1p.m. All are welcome.

Rambles In Eireann
  Sunday 1st of June meet at 2.30p.m. at the Mill House Pub / Restaurant - approx 14 km from Birr on the Roscrea road. The walk will be to and from Mount St Joseph's and will take about two hours. At Feighery's Kilcormac following the Boora walk on 4th May - for which thanks to leaders Seamus Barron and Liam Buckley - a presentation was made to Tadhg Pey to mark the occasion of his ninetieth birthday. Tadhg was one of the founder members of the Ramblers and is currently its president. His writings on history and chronicling of local life have been widely acclaimed. Visit www.ramblesineirinn.org.

Birr Garden Club
  Birr Garden Club will have their annual outing on 12th June. They will visit June Blake's garden and nursery and Jimmy Blake's Hunting Brook Gardens in Blessington. On their way home they will also call into Johnstown Garden Centre. Bus leaving the Marian Hall at 8.30a.m. Cost €28. Names and money can be left at Pat Guinan's shoeshop, Main Street, Birr. Non-members welcome.

Clareen ICA
  The Clareen ICA Guild held a meeting on Monday last. The annual tour was discussed and it was suggested that we go to Kildare and Newbridge and perhaps the Japanese Gardens. The date will be the 24th of July. The cost will be €20 and should be paid in advance. Enquiries to Bridie (057) 91 31198 or any members as soon as possible. Next meeting not yet decided.

Birr Social Club 
  Draw for the Banner Scratch Cup sponsored by C/C: K. Verney v S. Nevin, J. Mellsop v K. Hogan, B. Nolan v M. Whelahan, J. Dwyer v Brian Whelahan, A. Naylor v B. Stephens, D. Kelly v B. King, J. Ryland v B. Guinan, Barry Whelahan v R. Donnelly, P. Hogan v E. Nevin, P. Dunphy v B. Kennedy, J. Guilfoyle v B. Ryland, D. Kavenagh v B. Harding, A. Sullivan v T. Mac, A. Hennessy v D. Murray, M. Nolan (snr) v S. Whelahan, J. Carroll v P. Cleary. All 1st round games to be played by 22nd June.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo: The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 n 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp. Bingo players please note that Bingo on Friday week will start at 8p.m. 
  Progressive 25 Drive: Top prize on Sunday night was shared on 11 games by Jimmy Dolan and Jim Gallogly, Terrie Kinahan and Caroline McGee. Two pairs had ten games Mick and Dolores Ryan, Dick Johnston and Bill Owens. The table prize went to Rose and Angela English while the last game was won by Tony and Mary Larkin. Raffle prize winners were Kieran Henson, Tom Kennedy and Pat Tumulty. Cards continue on Sunday night at 9pm with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games.

Self Help Collection
  A churchgate collection for Self Help Africa will be taken at all Masses on Sunday next. Your support would be most welcome.

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 15, 20, 22 and 25. No jackpot winner. No match three. Five names drawn: D&M c/o D Cotter, Niall Halvey c/o M Halvey, Kieran Dooley c/o A Cooney, W McKenna Snr c/o W McKenna, Geraldine Kelly Wood c/o T Grainger. Next week's draw Palace Bar for a jackpot of €10,850. Thanks to the Market Tavern this week.

Birr Town FC
  Lotto: Numbers drawn this week were 3, 15, 16 and 21. Bonus 12. No jackpot winner. Three match three winners each get €70 - Gary Cahill c/o PJ, Anne Rowan Moorpark St, Karen Mooney. Next week's jackpot is €5,200 with star prize €8,200. Next week's draw will take place in Craughwell's. Thanks for all your continued support.

FAI Summer Camp
  The FAI have informed Birr Town FC that the summer soccer camp in Woodfield Park Birr is now full and no more applications for the camp will be accepted. The policy of the FAI is not to accept any walk-ons during the week of the camp as no gear will be available for anyone not booked into camp. Thanks to everyone who applied for the camp.

Birr Mart
  Bullocks: 1 ch 520 €1,020, 4 ch 623 €1,055, 1 ch 880 €1,760, 4 her 543 €930, 3 lim 533 €985, 2 ch 315 €660, 1 lim 560 €1,070, 1aa 610 €1,090, 7 sim 343 €690, 5 lim 307 €630, 2 ch 373 €765 1 ch 385 €740. Heifers: 4 her 331 €600, 1 ch 450 €810, 5 ch 286 €640, 1 fr 625 €1,070, 1 sim 655 €1,060, 3 ch 370 €800, 3 ch 382 €775, 1 ch 570 €980, 1 ch 425 €865, 2 ch 340 €745, 3 ch 387 €810, 1 sim 410 €780. Dry Cows: 1 sim 755 €1,080, 1 ch 640 €1,015, 1 fr 565 €940, 1 aa 795 €1,170, 1 lim 555 €870, 1aa 600 €885.

Busy Bodies Summer Camp
  Busy Bodies Summer Camp takes place in Killeen National School for the month of July starting on June 30th for four weeks. Phone Ann at (057) 91 21842 for more information. Forms can be got from the Credit Union, Birr. Lots of fun and enjoyable month.  

Teng Tool Demonstration
  Teng Tool demonstration van will be at Haines in Woodlands, Birr on Thursday May 22nd from 10a.m. to 5p.m. Special offers on the day (Advert).

School Enrolment Rath
  School enrolment for Rath National School for September next will take place on Monday 26th May at 2.15pm in the national school itself. All are welcome. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the school office beforehand; tel 05791 33011.

Carrig & Riverstown Ladies Club
  Will members please note there will be no meeting for May and June. They will regroup after the Summer break in September, when they hope to be back stronger than ever. Enjoy the summer everyone.

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Weight Watchers
  Weight Watchers Birr (086) 6086067, Dooly's Hotel, Wednesdays. Class times 11.30a.m. and 12.45p.m. Evenings 5.15p.m. and 6.30p.m.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

22/5/2008
St Brendan's Student Tops In German

Congratulations are extended to Elaine McAuliffe, St. Brendan’s CS, Birr, on her exceptional achievement of being one of a group of students who achieved the highest marks in German, in the 2007 Junior Certificate. 
  As a consequence of her results and a demanding oral in Dublin; Elaine has been awarded with a scholarship to Germany. This will take her to Bavaria during the summer break. 
  Currently in Transition Year in St. Brendan’s Elaine plays an active role in many aspects of school life and is an elected member of the Student Council. She is wished continued success as she enters 5th Year in September and begins study for the Leaving Certificate.

22/5/2008
Mundy Announces Summer Shows

Summer 2008 and Mundy is busy writing his fourth studio album in various towns and cities across Ireland. While his Galway Girl single with Sharon Shannon continues its reign at the top of the Irish charts, the Offaly singer songwriter has announced a number of Irish shows in July and August and Tullamore is on the list. Mundy will road test some of his new material with full band. The Tullamore show will be on Thursday July 3rd at the Tullamore Court Hotel.
  Also in the offing are dates with friend and musical collaborator, Sharon Shannon, including performances at both Womad and Glastonbury festivals.
  With the Live & Confusion album and DVD having achieved double platinum sales in Ireland, this round of touring will be the final chapter in an incredible success story. Live & Confusion captured the true spirit of Mundy and his band and produced two massive radio hits, the live versions of July and Galway Girl.
  Mundy has now released three hugely successful albums on his own Camcor label: the double platinum selling 24 Star Hotel and Live & Confusion albums and the platinum selling No. 1 album Raining Down Arrows. His debut album, Jelly Legs, was released on Sony Music.
  July is currently available as a free download at www.myspace.com/mundyirl 
  Live & Confusion, stand alone DVD releases on June 6th.
  Log on to www.mundy.ie  for news, tours and more.
  The full list of tour dates for the Summer is as follows: Sunday 25th May - Africa Day, Dublin Castle, Dublin; Thursday 3rd July - Tullamore Court Hotel, (with full band); Friday 4th July - Clarence Hotel, Sligo (with full band); Saturday 5th July - The Grill, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal (with full band); Monday 6th July - Carlton Shearwater Hotel, Galway (with full band) (Ballinasloe Community Arts Festival); Wednesday 16th July - Bray Summer Festival (with full band); Friday 8th August - Dolan’s, Limerick (with full band); Saturday 9th August - The Granary, Killarney (with full band); Sunday 10th August - Hillgrove Hotel, Dingle, Co. Kerry (with full band); Monday 11th August - Puck Fair, Killorglin, Co. Kerry (with full band). 

22/5/2008
'Waiting For Godot' Coming To Birr

'The Gate production is definitive, not just in Irish but in global terms…probably the closest we will ever get to the perfect official Godot' - The Irish Times 
  As part of the Gate Theatre’s 80th anniversary celebrations, the acclaimed production of Waiting for Godot will tour to 40 venues across the 32 counties of Ireland, playing for one night only in each venue. Birr Theatre & Arts Centre is one of those venues and Samuel Beckett's play will be staged there for one night only on Saturday October 18th. 
  The tour, which will also mark the 20th anniversary of this now legendary production, will star the original cast members including Stephen Brennan, Barry McGovern, Johnny Murphy and Alan Stanford.  
  The Gate Theatre is extremely grateful of its partners Ulster Bank, the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism and The Arts Council for their generous support without which this tour would not be possible. Michael Colgan, director of the Gate, added 'I am delighted that these respected institutions, who have all played such a significant role in support not only the Gate but the arts in general, have agreed to come on board and help with such an exciting and unique event'.
  Cormac McCarthy, Chief Executive, Ulster Bank Group said: 'we are very proud to support the Gate Theatre’s national tour, taking this much-acclaimed production to communities across the island. his announcement marks a new era for our relationship with the Gate Theatre of which we have been proud sponsors for more than ten years. The arts have a significant role to play in the modern economy and is a key element of Ulster Bank’s sponsorship portfolio which includes the Ulster Bank Dublin Theatre Festival and the Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s'.
  In 1987, Samuel Beckett asked Michael Colgan to produce Waiting for Godot at the Gate, and requested that Walter Asmus – his assistant director for the famous Schiller Theatre production – direct. Hailed by the international press as 'the definitive Godot', this production has since toured all over the world including China, Melbourne and Toronto, receiving unprecedented critical acclaim. It was also a central part of the Gate’s Becket Festivals in Dublin (1991 and 2006), New York (1996) and London (1999 and 2006).  
  Tickets (€25) for Waiting for Godot are now on sale, nationwide. Waiting for Godot will play at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Saturday, 18th October, 2008. Box Office open Monday-Friday 1p.m.– 5.30p.m. on (057) 9122911 or online www.birrtheatre.com.    Further info on www.godotontour.ie  

22/5/2008
Birr Community Games

Athletics 
  The local sports day takes place on Saturday, May 24th at 10.30am in Scurragh. This competition is open to both boys and girls aged from U-8 to U-16. Note, the long puck event will take place also at the same time. Some other field events will take place the following Monday, May 25th at 7.30p.m. Registration at training costs €2. 
Camogie
  Hard luck to the Birr U-14 camogie team who met a very strong Shinrone team last Wednesday in the semi-final. This was a home game but the visiting team outclassed Birr on the day. The team - Ailbhe Kenny, Fiona Guinan, Aoife Joyce, Aine Delahunt, Lisa Maher, Rebecca Kinsella, Revina Murdock, Eadaoin Nolan, Hannah McLoughlin, Jane Bracken, Serena Murphy, Rebecca Corrigan, Eimear McMahon, Maria Harding, Rachel Spain, Sinead Garland. 
Swimming 
  The local heats took place last Thursday in Birr Swimming Pool. The following are the results:
Backstroke
  Boys U-10 - 1st Mark Haines, 2nd Eoghan Maher. Girls U-10 - 1st Sinead Bergin, 2nd Sarah Byrne. Boys U-12 - 1st Liam Pingree, 2nd Conor Sampson, Girls U-12 - 1st Niamh Heffernan, 2nd Avril Fleury. Boys U-14 - 1st Chris Pingree. Girls U-14 - 1st Niamh Hogan, 2nd Rachel Spain, 3rd Deirdre Cashen. Boys U-16 - 1st Sam Pearson. Girls U-16 - 1st Clodagh Bergin. 
Breaststroke
  Boys U-12 - 1st Liam Pingree, 2nd Conor Sampson. Girls U-12 - 1st Niamh Heffernan, 2nd Aisling Garland, 3rd Clodagh Hanniffy. Boys U-14 - 1st Chris Pingree. Girls U-14 - 1st Sinead Garland, 2nd Kara Sampson, 3rd Ava Haines. 
Freestyle
  U-10 Boys - 1st Mark Haines, 2nd Eoghan Maher. U-10 Girls - 1st Sinead Bergin, 2nd Sarah Pingree, 3rd Elizabeth Harding. U-12 Boys - 1st Liam Pingree, 2nd Conor Sampson, 3rd John Hanlon. U-12 Girls - 1st Aileen Ryan, 2nd Niamh Heffernan, 3rd Aisling Garland. U-14 Boys - 1st Chris Pingree, 2nd Conor O'Meara, Jack O'Keefe. U-14 Girls - 1st Rachel Spain, 2nd Sinead Garland, 3rd Ava Haines. U-16 Boys - 1st Sam Pearson. U-16 Girls - 1st Aoife Cashen. 
  Congratulations to all the above. The first and second place winners will now represent Birr at the County Final to be held in Birr on the June Bank holiday weekend. Thanks to M.J. Grogan for organising this event and to Marian Carter and the Birr Swimming Pool staff for providing such a fine facility to Birr Community Games. 
Hurling 
  A huge congratulations to the Boys U-11 Hurling team who retained their County Title in Clara last Saturday. The team came up against a strong side from Ferbane in the semi final. The Birr lads got off to a great start but they had to keep focussed throughout the match as Ferbane were fighting back hard. The final score was Birr 6-9 to Ferbane 3-2. 
  The team had a well deserved break and luckily the weather kept good for the final. They met Kilcormac/Killoughey in the final. The Birr lads showed their experienced and ran out easy winners in the end. Many thanks to their Coaches/managers Gary Cahill, Noel Russell and Johnny Kelly. 
  The team was made up of Daniel O'Meara, Dylan Quegan, Dylan Watkins, Eoghan Cahill, Carmel Kirwan, Aaron Talbot, Oisin Murphy, Ryan Kelly, Brian Hynes, Dean Cahill, Niall Culbert, Ryan Hogan, Raymond Nolan, David Mullins, Keelan O'Brien, T.J. Talbot and Ben Russell. Well done lads. Best of luck with the Leinster competition. 
Rugby
  Well done to the boys U-11 Rugby team who took the gold medal in Clara last Saturday. The boys got off to a great start by beating Clara in the semi-final with ease. They knew the final would be a tougher battle against Brosna. At half time the score read 3-2 in Birr's favour so it was all to play for in the second half. The boys fought hard and managed to clinch the title. The final score was 5-2 to Birr with tries from Michael Milne (2), Oisin Murphy and Jack Delahunt (2). The team was made up of Jack Delahunt, Michael Milne, Oisin Murphy, Eoin Bergin, Donnacha Purcell, Ryan England, Conor Molloy, Barry O'Meara, Jack Pardy, Shane Hogan and Conor Smith.
  Well done thanks to their coaches and managers, Tony Murphy and Brian Hogan. Best of luck in the Leinster Competition. 
Tag Rugby
  This was the first year that Birr entered this event. The county finals took place in Ferbane last Sunday. The U-14 team were unfortunate to finish in 3rd place but they put in a great team performance. Many of them will be underage next year so this was a great learning experience. The panel was made up of Brendan Heffernan, Deirdre Cashen, Katie Harding, Aislinn Fox, Carmel Kenny, Ailbhe Kenny, Bronagh Rigney, Julie Fanneran, Aoife Plunkett, Anna Barry and Ciaran Cooney. 
  The U-11 team put in a great performance in the semi-final and reached the final. They met very strong opposition from Ferbane but they did themselves proud by winning the Silver medal. Well done to the panel: Conor Brummell, Clodagh Hanniffy, Avril Fleury, Alanna Duffy, Michael Seguin, Gillian Irwin, Michael Milne, Conor Smith, Amy Lyons, Aoife Hogan, Luke Barry, Erin O'Meara and Conor O'Meara. Thanks to all the parents who provided transport on the day. 

22/5/2008
Crinkle Tidy Villages And Development Association

It's that time of year again when Tidy Towns committees are out all over the country making improvements in their local communities and Crinkle is no different. Already this year we have sown almost 60 trees and with the assistance of the Rural Social Scheme the green areas are being kept mown and tidy. Committee members have been out on Tuesday nights recently picking up litter and dealing with weeds. There is a lot more to be done to have the village looking its best before the Tidy Towns' judge arrives, which can be any time after June 1st.
 
Sowing Of Summer Flowers
  A feature of Crinkle in recent years has been the splash of colour on Military Road and Main (Barrack) Street from Summer bedding plants. This colourful display has been the subject of favourable comment from local people and visitors alike.
  The committee plan to sow over 500 bedding plants on Tuesday next 29th May and will need a lot of volunteers to complete the task. If you have an hour to spare on Tuesday night please come along to lend a hand. Committee members will be working on Military Road from 7.30p.m. 
 
Improvements On Barrack Street And Cemetery Road
  The Association is delighted to see Offaly County Council carrying out major improvements in the village.  A footpath from Hawthorn Drive to the Roscrea Road has been completed, which is of great benefit to all the walkers in the area. The council will be carrying out realignment, drainage and resurfacing on Barrack Street. In conjunction with this work ducting has been installed for routing of cables underground.  Completion of this work will greatly enhance the appearance of the main street. 
  Offaly County Council is also carrying out major improvement works in Grove Street, where a tarmacadam play area is under construction and this will be accompanied by sowing of trees and shrubs.
  All of the above works will lead to a real improvement in Crinkle in 2008 and the Association is asking each and every resident to do their part by keeping the area immediately in front of their house free from litter and weeds.  

22/5/2008
Late Goal Seals Leinster Minor 'B' Camogie Title For St Brendan's CS

Leinster Minor 'B' Camogie Final; St. Brendan's CS 2-8  Presentation College Kilkenny 2-6

St. Brendan's Community School sealed a memorable win when they defeated Presentation College, Kilkenny by two points to win the Leinster Minor 'B' camogie title at Rathdowney on Thursday last.  In a a close and exciting finish to the match St. Brendan's led their opponents Presentation Kilkenny by a slight margin in the closing minutes and had to withstand some late pressure by them.
  Presentation Kilkenny netted a goal before St. Brendan's CS rallied with a final goal when a shot from out the field by Anne-Marie Guinan found the back of the Kilkenny net to put St. Brendan's into the lead.  Presentation Kilkenny kept up the pressure soon after and won a '45' which was sent over the bar. However St. Brendan's CS had done enough in the last few minutes and were able to hold out to the final whistle, to the delight of the team, panel and management.
  It was an exciting contest in the second half as both teams went for victory in the closing minutes.  It looked like St. Brendan's would hold on to win and it wasn't until a final goal by Anne Marie Guinan that the victory was assured.
  St. Brendan's had to work hard for the win in the last ten minutes of the match and defended gamely when the backline came under pressure from the Kilkenny forwards.   
  The match changed quickly in the space of a few minutes though St. Brendan's looked determined and didn't want the match to get away from them. St. Brendan's had the better of the two forwards in the first half and created more of the chances with efforts by Aine Kinsella and Anne-Marie Guinan giving Birr the edge.  They needed to be on their toes as the Kilkenny forwards often looked they could get scores if given the chance.  
  St. Brendan's had a three point lead at the halfway stage and it set them up nicely for the second half which picked up in tempo. Presentation Kilkenny came more into it and the Birr backs had to get in many blocks to deny them chances. A turning point occured with two goals in the space of a few minutes, firstly by Emily Quinlan, followed with a response by Emma Ayres. There were some exciting moments in the closing stages then it was the turn of the impressive Anne-Marie Guinan to find the net with the most crucial score in the final and were able to go on and seal victory.  
  St. Brendan's went ahead with a point by Aine Kinsella and minutes later she got by her marker to score a second point.  Presentation Killkenny had some moments of play and went close to a goal but the chance was kept out. St. Brendan's tried to get more ball into the forwards, then at the other end in the 18th minute Emma Ayres was fouled and a free was given which Yvonne McGrath sent over the bar. A minute later Birr added to the lead with a point by Aine Kinsella, her third since the start to lead 0-3 to 0-1.
  Ten minutes before the interval a converted free by Anne-Marie Guinan gave St. Brendan's a three point lead. Birr kept up the pressure in the next few minutes and Anne-Marie Guinan made it 0-5 to 0-1 with a point from play. Presentation added a point and St. Brendan's CS led 0-5 to 0-2 at half time.
  Five minutes into the second half a foul took place on Ciara O'Connor and Anne-Marie Guinan sent the free between the posts. Presentation Kilkenny began to make a battle of it again and found the range with two points in a two minute spell with efforts by Emma Ayres and Eibhlin Fogarty to cut Birr's lead to two points 0-6 to 0-4.
  St. Brendan's kept playing camogie and soon after won a free which was sent over the bar by Anne-Marie Guinan her fourth point in the match, three of those coming from frees as Birr led by 0-7 to 0-4 in the 45th minute of the contest. 
 Twelve minutes from the end St. Brendan's won a '45' and Anne-Marie Guinan sent the ball in amongst the forwards, where it broke for Emily Quinlan who got a hurl on the end of it and it found the back of the net from close range. The goal gave Birr a six point lead, then moments later at the opposite end Presentation scored a goal when the ball was knocked into the path of Emma Ayres and she sent a first time shot to the net.  Birr still had the advantage at that stage. 
  The Birr backline came under pressure late on and  five minutes from the end Presentation half forward Fiona Nolan sent in a shot that went high into the top of the net to level matters.
  It was an exciting finish to the match and two minutes from time St. Brendan's gave themselves a great chance when Anne-Marie Guinan fired in a shot from distance that finished in the back of the net.  Birr had to withstand a late rally by the Kilkenny school but were able to hold out for victory to win the Leinster Minor 'B' camogie title.
  ST. BRENDAN'S CS: Shauna Carroll; Mhuire Kennedy, Claire Burke, Mairead Dolan; Emma Burke, Niamh Reid (Capt), Margaret Teehan; Caroline Soupe, Emily Quinlan (1-0); Jezma Monaghan, Anne-Marie Guinan (1-5, 0-4 frees), Michelle Mann; Aine Kinsella (0-3), Ciara O'Connor, Rebecca Lambe.  
  PRESENTATION COLLEGE: Ciara Ryan; Emer Connick, Leasa Byrne, Sarah Walpole; Mairead Fogarty, Deirdre Phelan (capt), Emer Fennelly; Emma Ayres (1-1), Eibhlin Fogarty (0-1); Alyson Crane, Yvonne McGrath (0-4, 0-3 frees), Fiona Nolan (1-0); Orla Doyle, Emer Brennan, Julie Foyle. 

22/5/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Course Development
  Members should note that the first tee is back in play from this week. If a ball lands on the new ground it must be teed up before hitting. Much progress has been made on the new development with changes made to the 1st, 11th and 18th.  As the weather conditions have been favourable of late there is every possibility that the new course will be playable before the summer is out. 
For Your Diary
  Wednesday 21st May; Ladies Semi-Open sponsored by Monaincha Spa, Roscrea.
  Thursday 22nd May; 10.00a.m. and 10.30p.m. Seniors.
  Thursday 22nd May; Newbridge Mixed. Birr v Esker Hills. Two Home. Three Away.
  Saturday 24th May; 10.30a.m. Junior Cup at Castle Barna. 
  Sunday 25th May; 18h Stableford.
  Sunday 15th June; President Michael Liffey’s prize.
  Saturday 21st June; South Leinster. Birr v Coolattin. (Three home. Four away)
Ladies Golf 
  Ladies’ golf enjoyed what was probably its most successful week in recent years. On Thursday 15th Marie Tooher chipped into the hole from a bunker on the 18th hole at Portarlington to seal a result in our favour for the Miele Fourball team. Rita Enright’s team of Emer Hanniffy & Kathleen Tooher, Ann Frawley & Frances Ashe, Martina O’Brien & Mary Ryan and Anne Kenny & Marie Tooher now meet the Heath and play for a place in the Regional Final.  
  On Saturday 17th the Senior Foursome team with Emer Hanniffy & Ann Frawley, Kathleen Doorley & Patrice Delaney and Marie Tooher & Anne Kenny won two and halved one match at the Curragh, and are strongly fancied to secure a place in the semi-finals when the Curragh team visit Birr for the return match. In Evelyn Lynch’s absence Lady President Bernadette McTague travelled with, and captained the team. 
  Also on Saturday, Lady Vice-Captain Mary Sullivan with Rita Delaney & Maura Flannery secured two matches at home against Glasson in the Minor Cup, while Mona Collins and Des Mulcair won a vital 'away' match. The team will play in the quarter final next round.
  The bright fine week finished with Mr. President’s Prize to Ladies played on Wednesday as well as Sunday. Scoring was extremely competitive for the beautiful John Rocha glasses, which were won by Christine Bruce with a nett score of 60! A good crowd attended the Presentation of prizes which took place in the evening for this, as well as for Mr.Captain’s prize to Ladies, the Hedgerows Sponsored Prizes and 9-hole competitions.   
Ladies’ Results 
  Mr President’s Prize to Ladies: 1st Christina Bruce - Nett 60.   2nd Margot Regan - Nett 65; Best Gross Score – Anne Kenny 79; 3rd Lena Guinan – Nett 69; 4th Therese Kennedy – Nett 71. 
  Mr Captain’s Prize to Ladies; 1st Siobhan Tynan;  2nd Majella Duffy; Gross - Gemma Butler 3rd Tory Baker & 4th Liz Nolan.   
  The Hedgerows Sponsored Prize: 1st Margot Regan. 2nd Carmel Ryan & 3rd Jo Conniffe. 9-hole Competition: 1st Jo Conniffe; 2nd. Liz Nolan; 3rd Pauline Egan.   
  9-hole 21/5 1st Kay Kelly; 2nd Margot Regan; 3rd Maura Flannery.   
  Australian Spoons Foursomes were won by Rita Delaney & Maura Flannery – they will play in Regional Finals in Kilkenny.
  This week Semi-Open Competition on Wednesday May 21st kindly sponsored by Monaincha Spa, Roscrea. Time sheet is up in locker room; ladies are encouraged to invite their golfing friends from other clubs - an opportunity to socialise as well as a chance to win a generous prize.
Men’s Results
  Sunday 18th May: Lady President Bernie McTague’s Prize to Men. 1st John Gilmartin 42 pts. 2nd Tony McTague 42 pts. Gross: Seamas Breen 36 pts. 3rd Gavin Young 42 pts. 4th Michael McGrath 41 pts. 
  Seniors. 1st Michael Ashe, Paul Walsh. Tom King 67 pts. 2nd Tom Murtagh, Paddy Greally, Michael Stephens 64 pts. Gross: Brian Guinan, Dan Kealy, Tony Rosney 42 pts.
  Wheelchair Classic. 1st John Kelly, Tony McTague, Paul Walsh, Gerry McManus 103 pts. 2nd Niall Maher, David Sweeney, Alan Ward, Jerry Sheehan 98 pts. 3rd Cormac Moylan, Robert Ryland, Michael Lyons, Pauric Moylan 97 pts. 4th Barney Claffey, Kay Bell, Denis Buckley, Liam McCabe 97 pts. 5th Barry Kelly, Eugene Flynn, David Hughes, Jim Kelly 95 pts. 6th Hugh Healy, Damien Spollen, Colm Dunne, Una Dunne 94 pts.
Inter Club
  Good luck this week to our Newbridge Mixed and Junior Cup teams. The Mixed under Mary Ryan and Francie Horan is: Rita Delaney/John Dwyer and Frances Ashe/Brian Guinan at home. Playing away are: Ena Guilfoyle/Ger Gath, Tori Baker/David Byrne and Annette Kenny/Pat Maher. 
  The Junior Cup team under Sean Moylan are in the qualifying round at Castle Barna. The team is: Seamas Breen, Brian Guinan, Fergus Garland, Pat Madden and Joe Slevin. Subs are Roger Byrne, Michael Lyons and Albert Kelly.
Reminder
  Players are reminded that in any round of a handicap competition the competitor must ensure that his handicap is recorded on his score card before it is returned to the committee. Please see rule 6-2(b)
Congratulations
  Well done to the Offaly Wheelchair association and its director Kathleen Carroll on running a very successful Classic last week. In her address Kathleen thanked all who played and reserved special thanks for the sponsors and organisers. She mentioned in particular Francie Horan who did so much to make the day a success. In reply Captain Padddy O’Brien welcomed the Wheelchair Association saying that the Club was delighted to support such a worthy cause and guaranteed that our facilities would continue to be made available into the future.
  Also congratulations to Sinead Daly and Emer Delaney on being selected for coaching by the Leinster Branch. 
Sympathy
  The members offer sincere sympathy to Thady Clancy and his family on the death of his mother Annie in Belmont at the weekend. 

22/5/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Leinster Colleges Minor ‘B’ Camogie Final
 St. Brendan’s C.S. traveled to Rathdowney on Thursday last to take on Presentation College, Kilkenny in the Minor ‘B’ Final. The girls from St. Brendan’s were first to get into the match and gave a great team performance in the first half. Aine Kinsella opened the scoring for them with a point five minutes into the match. Caroline Soupe and Emily Quinlan were under pressure in centre field as Presentation College ran a three girl line out. Scorers for Birr Anne-Marie Guinan 0-2, Aine Kinsella 0-3. Half time score St. Brendan’s 0-5, Presentation College 0-2.
  Kilkenny came out the stronger in the second half and had the Birr girls under a lot of pressure.   With five minutes to go the teams were level scores Birr 1-8, Kilkenny 2-5. With minutes to go Ann-Marie Guinan scored a great goal and Kilkenny only managed another point. Second half scorers Emily Quinlan 1-0, Anne-Marie Guinan 1-3. Final score St. Brendan’s Birr 2-8, Presentation College Kilkenny 2-6.
 Club girls playing with team Shauna Carroll, Caroline Soupe, Emily Quinlan, Subs: Jessica Spain, Rebecca Hoctor, Eimear Teehan, Maria Harding, Ailbhe Kenny, Nadia Feehan, Katie Masterson, Aoife Joyce Aideen Nolan, Becky Kinsella, Maeve Monaghan, Serena Murphy.
 Well done also to Michelle Gleeson who was on the scoresheet again for the County Under 18 team against Down on Saturday last scoring 1-0 out of 5-9 in their victory over Down.
Community Games
  Birr played Shinrone on Wednesday evening in the Brothers Field but were unable to score against a strong Shinrone team. Best for Birr on the day were Jane Bracken, Ailbhe Kenny, Fiona Guinan, Aine Delahunt and Hannah McLoughlin. Shinrone now go forward to the county final and we wish them the best of luck.
  Team: Aideen Nolan, Aine Delahunt, Fiona Guinan, Jane Bracken, Ailbhe Kenny, Aoife Joyce, Eimear McMahon, Rebecca Corrigan, Ravina Murdock, Lisa Maher, Hannah McLoughlin, Serena Murphy, Rebecca Kinsella.
Feile
  Training for the feile under 14 team will take place at 4p.m. on Friday next in the Brothers Field. The sponsored solo run will take place on Saturday morning at 11a.m. in the Brothers Field also. All cards and monies are to be returned to training on Friday evening.
Training Times
  Training for under 16, under 18 and senior panels continues on Friday evenings at 7p.m. and Sundays at 11a.m. in Crinkle GAA pitch.
Club Reunion
  Birr Camogie Club are thirty years old this year and to mark the occasion, a reunion of all former players is being organized for Sunday 26th October. So if you are a former player or you know someone who played and are no longer living locally, please inform them and tell them to keep the date free in their diary. If you have any old photos, paper cuttings etc please contact club secretary Caroline McCarthy contact (087) 2989019.

15/5/2008
Celebratory Scenes As New Taoiseach Arrives In Birr

Led by the Mountbolus pipe band the man from Clara, Taoiseach Brian Cowen was greeted by cheers and applause in scenes of celebration around Emmet Square on a balmy Sunday afternoon in Birr town. 
  Welcoming the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen onto the reviewing stand was Chairman of Birr Town Council, Cllr Michael Loughnane who remarked, 'it was a great honour for all us here in the Midlands, not just those associated with the Fianna Fail, to see Brian Cowen ratified as the 7th leader of the Fianna Fail party and 12th leader, Taoiseach of our country since the foundation of the state.'
  Cllr Loughnane pointed out, 'as we all know Brian has great qualities but he is first and foremost a family man. He is a man of great intellect, a true patriot like Sean Lemass and a republican. Yet he remains, despite his achievements, a very approachable man.' Cllr Loughnane detailed some of the things Taoiseach Cowen has delivered in his previous Ministries. 'His record on delivery both nationally and locally is most impressive. Three examples of this would be the local Community Nursing hospital here in Birr, the new local authority offices on the Wilmer Road and of course our new swimming pool.' 
  Cllr Loughnane saluted the likes of Ber Cowen and members of the Fianna Fail organisation past and present. On a personal note he added, 'I and members of the Loughnane family we always be eternally grateful to you for your visits to our house last summer (during his late father's illness) even between negotiations on a new government. Taoiseach can wish you and your family many years of good health and happiness, in years to come we will be reflecting on the Cowen era and we will talk about him as a great Taoiseach.'
  The President of Birr Fianna Fail Cumann, Mr Jim McNamara made a presentation of commemorative medallion of the 1916-1966 celebrations to the Taoiseach. 'I am very honoured on behalf of Birr Cumann to make this presentation to you as a memento of your first visit to Birr as Taoiseach the home town of your wife Mary. I think this memento epitomises most of the idealism and vision which you have.'
  Addressing the gathering at the Square Mr Cowen stated, 'I want to say on behalf of everybody in my family that I greatly appreciate the very many people who have come out to the square here this afternoon on this wonderful sunny day to welcome us on our official visit to Birr since my appointment as Taoiseach in last week. I look forward to the challenge and I am very energised by the challenge my appointment as Taoiseach represents but I am also very much daunted by the responsibilities given the excellent service and record of achievement of so many of my predecessors.'
  Mr Cowen remarked that in taking up office he is acutely conscious that this country is facing into some difficult times ahead, 'but I think it is very important that we keep in perspective what exactly the nature of that challenge is. We need to draw inspiration from the tremendous example of previous generations who have built up this country in far more difficult and limited circumstances. It is not just simply about resources it is also about what sort of country we are and where we are heading.'
  The major theme that Mr Cowen has been discussing since his election as Taoisech has been an endeavour to put into perspective the nature of that challenge, 'I think that in looking at that challenge that we recognise that this Republic is made up of its citizens primarily. The basic point I want to make today is that the political narrative of Ireland is changing. Historically we have been country whose legacy has been one of grievance and injustice, a legacy of impoverishment and subsistence, a legacy of part of wider empire. But since the freedom and independence of this state was established we have seen the possibilities that this nation can develop on the basis on our freedom of action, our ability to manage our own affairs.'
  Taoiseach Cowen referred to the 'new' Irish who are coming to our shores and are helping us to build up the economy, 'in some cases they represent 30% of the labour in the hospitality sector, one in eight in manufacturing and one in seven in construction which is an indication of the tens of thousands of people who have now formed their home here.' 
  Mr Cowen added further that because this represents a complete change from a history of emigration being replaced by a reality of immigration today the political narrative of the country must change. 'But in changing that narrative we must look towards our highter motives and not allow those shrill voices to lead towards entertaining prejudice or those who have us think in a sectarian way or those who would think that citizenship is only something for ourselves and not for others. Because we owe to those others countries and to those people who come here now the same respect that our people got for generations as they headed towards other shores as well.'
  Mr Cowen emphasised this vision of leadership, 'my vision is of a pluralist, tolerant and diverse county, not a country that is the most dispersed nation in the world but a country that is clearly becoming one of the most diverse nations in the world. I firmly believe that it is for us in the political system to lead and manage that change.'
  Referring to the Lisbon Treaty he remarked on the fact Ireland today has benefited enormously from our membership of the European Union. Mr Cowen stated that the reason why this has happened is because of leaders and visionaries such as Lemass in the 60s who saw the weaknesses of a fledgling Irish industrial economy and knew that if the Irish people are to lose their dependancy and fixation on their nearest neighbour then they must widen and mature as people. Mr Cowen pointed, 'in order to that we had to look towards the greater scope of possibilities beyond our nearest shores. We looked to Europe and beyond.' 
  As a consequence of this leadership, the Taoiseach commented, the country has seen in the intervening four decades a more sophisticated Irish economy that has been built up providing jobs commensurate to the education of the Irish people and provided housing and welfare services and other services that could only be dreamed about by our predecessors who represented the people in the years before. 
  Mr Cowen explained that the reason why this has come about is because of the hard work of the Irish people, 'good political leadership was about taking faith in the people and their capacity to adapt, develop and mature and increase prosperity for themselves and their families. It is that effort by society that brought us a model of economic and social development which is the envy of many other of the new emerging democracies in Eastern Europe who are now part of our European Union.'
  Mr Cowen added that if those countries are to enjoy the same experience as Ireland has seen in the last 35 years then it is critical that this country that has been the biggest beneficiary per head of population in the European Union sends a positive message out on the Lisbon treaty. 'If we wish to continue with that kind of prospect of continuing prosperity in the future then we must be positive regarding the Lisbon Treaty for I can assure that it will not be understood by our colleagues in Europe and other citizens in Europe why we who have benefited could be so self indulgence and indifferent to others.'
  Mr Cowen remarked that people should always remember that a prosperous Ireland with the most open economy in Europe will have access to more markets, more disposable income in those countries and greater opportunity for the creation of jobs at home as well. 'It is highly important on 12th of June next that we send a positive signal to Europe and the world of our values and how we want to be seen in the world.' 
  Taoiseach Cowen referred to number of tendencies in our society that he wished to see quelled and moderated, 'what I call our tendency towards individualism. The idea that the only reason that we are here is to pursue our own interests exclusively. Of course there are self interests that are legitimate and valid such as the need to have a better for yourself and your family, the need to ensure that your children get better educated, the need to make sure that you have better housing and that you can advance and have some of the dignity of modern living - those goals are not in question.'
  Mr Cowen referred to point that we have also wider interests to consider including our neighbours, community and values that have sustained the Irish people so well through times of adversity and difficulty throughout our history, 'a fidelity to what we know is right and hope to live as well as we can and put out our hand to our neighbour and help those who are vulnerable and weak and have a civilized sense in our country, that is the Ireland I know.'
  Mr Cowen commented, 'citizens must give of our time to our kids to ensure that they don't live aimless lives, to ensure that our kids are not sucked into the pernicious drug culture by those criminals who are in networks throughout this country. We have to recognise as responsible citizens too that those people who work on our behalf to maintain law and order, the Gardai Siochana and the Army require and demand and are entitled to our respect and that we work with them to ensure we deal with those who are trying to corrupt our children or are destroying the quality of life of our elderly by not allowing them to be secure in their own homes. All of us have a job to do everyday when we get up to ensure that not only do we have a descent life but also for those that are around us.'
  Mr Cowen concluded by stating, 'I believe that if everyone in this country takes that approach it won't matter what sort of turbulence there are in the markets. We must have active citizens we understand there role to make sure that this country is caring, campassionate community. It is those qualities that will determine the quality of our lives and that is what politics is about a new type of dialogue and conversation with the people. One which say to the people - Yes, we will do all we can as government to enable and facilitate the sort of progress that we have had and endeavour to sustain it but most of all it has to be about us finding again that sense of resource within ourselves that was there with our forefathers in previous generations when they had no other options. They took up the proper priorities in their lives and made sure that they had proper housing for their children, who made sure that they had proper education, who knew where they were when they were going out at night and made sure they got home.'
  'They made sure they went to school and knew that discipline is part of character building as well and listened with respect to teachers and others in our roles as parents in those systems of education and elsewhere where they require our support and not simply taking up an adversarial role against them. That's what we need to see in Ireland today and I believe our young people are ready willing and able to shape the society of this country in the decades ahead on the basis of the example that we provide. We cannot expect with all of the influences that come in modern to expect those people to able to deal with those things until they come through to their mature years. They look to us - how are we handling our individual prosperity? how are we handling our individual responsibilities? and I believe if we go back to those basic values that those are the values that will inform a better country, a better community and better society in this country in the years ahead and I want to have that conversation with the Irish people.'
     

15/5/2008
Progress Has Been Made On Seffin

Birr Town Council was informed that progress has been made on dealing with the traffic problem in Seffin during its monthly May meeting recently.
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin told the meeting that he had been talking to Charlie McCarthy, the Executive Engineer in Tullamore.
  'Mr McCarthy told me that the NRA are going to send a roads inspector to look at Seffin in the near future. I am optimistic that some solution to the problem will be in place by the end of this year.'
  Prior to Cllr McLoughlin's comments Cllr John Carroll had submitted the following motion: 'That this Council calls for the immediate provision at Seffin of a pedestrian crossing pending the putting in place of a comprehensive traffic management plan for the area. We also call for the Coach Road to be returned to a two way carriageway in the interest of residents and road users'. 
  Cllr Carroll said he is very concerned about the elderly people crossing the road in Seffin. 'We are now into the last 12 months of this Council and I would like to see this problem solved before the present council dissolves. I said that I would raise this matter during every monthly meeting until something was done and I intend to keep my promise.
  'Implementing my motion won't solve the general problem but it will be a stopgap and safety measure, and at least people will feel they can cross the road.' 
  Cllr Denis Sheils said watching the elderly crossing the road in Seffin is frightening.
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain pointed out that when crossing the road one has to be light on one's toes.
  Cllr Carroll said some people are breaking the law and are using the Coach Road as a short cut even though it is a oneway road.
  Willie Ryan, Area Engineer, echoed Cllr McLoughlin's positive assessment saying that it seems that the NRA 'has finally realised what a problem this matter is. They are going to carry out a survey this month and then will present their solution.'
  The Director of Services, Michael Roche, said it was best to wait for the NRA's solution and not create a traffic lights system as a stopgap measure.
  Cllr Carroll remarked that this isn't good enough. 'I won't stand for this. We have all been so patient and still it drags on. With all due respects to Mr Ryan and Charlie McCarthy the NRA already did a survey of Seffin five years ago and nothing was done after that.'
  Cllr Noel Russell asked the NRA to carry out their survey on Thursdays and Fridays when traffic is at its worst.
  Cllr Carroll's motion wasn't passed.

15/5/2008
Traffic Congestion Worries Over Tesco Development

Concerns were expressed during the May meeting of Birr Town Council that traffic congestion will worsen considerably in the town when Tesco's opens.
  It is planned that Tesco will open next October and two roundabouts will be built to ensure a free flow of traffic. 
  However, there is a possibility the roundabouts won't be built by the time the supermarket opens which would lead to very bad traffic congestion in Birr especially on Thursdays and Fridays.
  The councillors called unanimously on the Area Engineer and Town Clerk to do everything they could to ensure the roundabouts were built in time. One of the roundabouts will be located at the Coach Road, Drumbane, Moorpark Street junction.
  Cllr Noel Russell said Tesco's has sent out letters to residents informing them of the development which has assuaged some people's fears.
  Cllr Michael Loughnane, Chairman, read out a letter from Offaly Arts Officer Sinead O'Reilly which said that four artists have submitted applications to create a GAA sculpture at Tesco's. One of these four artists will be chosen by the Council to create the sculpture.
  In other business, Cllr Michael Campbell congratulated the area engineer Willie Ryan and council workers on their quick reaction during the last week in dealing with a sewage problem. He said it would be better to have the proposed pedestrian crossing on Eden Road beside the service station.
  The councillor also raised the parking of trucks on Rosse Row at night. 'This matter is going on too long now,' he said, 'and it is getting worse. There will be a serious accident there during the night unless we do something.' Mr Ryan said he would look at putting a herringbone pattern in the area where the trucks park. 
  Cllrs Campbell and Denis Sheils pointed out that the footpath on Military Road needs to be attended to and the verges need to be cut.
  Cllr Loughnane said a pedestrian crossing at the service station on Eden Road would be best because cars are 'coming screaming down the hill, and the service station point is also beside the large housing estate there.'
  Cllr Noel Russell commented that Pound Street is now officially the Mondello of Birr and cars are regularly doing 60/70 mph down there. 'It is only a matter of time before someone is hurt. And we are not just talking about boy racers here, but also local people.' He said High Street is narrow and cars parking on the paths are forcing people with buggies to come out onto the road.
  Castle Street, he added, is looking a bit shoddy and the most unsightly building there was recently boarded up but now there are unsightly advertisements pasted on the boards.
  He added that warning lights are needed on Moorpark Street because of the boys' school.
  Cllr Sheils pointed out that ducting was provided for lights at Fairview but the lights never happened.
  Cllr Seán Doorley said a manhole beside Wilmer Tennis Club is forcing drivers to swerve around it.
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain said the junction in Market Square is a problem and an accident could happen there. She said the cobble-locking in Emmet Square is in a very poor state. She added that the manhole cover on Green Street is causing an obstruction.
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin commented that some signs around the town should be removed because they are unsightly. He added that some parts of the town need a lick of paint. 'There is a piece of land beside the fire station where we could build houses for the elderly.'
  Cllr Campbell objected to the Vote Yes to the Lisbon Treaty posters which went up in the town in the last week. He said such posters weren't allowed during the elections so they should be taken down. 'They are hideous looking things and will do us no favours during the Tidy Towns competition.'
  Cllr John Carroll asked if the lights at the pedestrian crossing on Eden Road would be flashing or push-button. He was told by Mr Ryan that the lights would be flashing and would be located near the school's entrance.
  In response to a question from Cllr Sheils the Town Clerk Mary Gaughran said there are 180 on the housing list and 71 are single persons. She said the Council recently allocated houses to 26 applicants and the town has a relatively small landbank. She announced the good news that €3.1million has been allocated towards social housing in Birr this year and €100,000 has been allocated for traveller accommodation. The social housing will be constructed in McAuley Drive this year.
  Mr Ryan said the Council is presently surveying the Tullamore Road signs with the aim of having some of them removed.
  Cllr Campbell said the councillors should be given Council neckties and Birr Town Council memorabilia should be displayed on the walls of the council chamber in the civic offices. 'We were told this memorabilia was going to be put up,' said Cllr Sheils, 'but nothing has happened.'
  'After the next election some of us mightn't need a necktie,' joked Cllr Campbell.

15/5/2008
Partly Negative Picture Painted For Birr

A partly negative picture on the prospect of attracting new industries to Birr was painted at the monthly meeting of Birr Town Council.
  Gillian Maunsell from the IDA addressed the meeting in the Civic Offices on Monday evening last. Ms Maunsell said Kevin McCarthy was supposed to be present as well but another unavoidable meeting had come up in Dublin.
  She said she is originally from Tullamore so her heart is in the right place.
  Ms Maunsell commented that Birr is a smaller town in the midlands gateway and its concern about not attracting foreign companies is shared by other towns in the region.
  She said it is often the bad news that gets all the attention, such as the recent job losses in Athlone and Longford and the good news stories simply don't receive anything like the same attention.
  'The gateways in the country,' the IDA representative continued, 'were created by the government to bring about critical mass so we could compete on a global level. These large companies are looking across the world for a place in which to locate and we are trying to attract them to Ireland. In the midlands we are competing with larger population centres such as Dublin or Cork which may seem to have more advantages than we have.
  'When we have a win for the midlands it is a win for the whole midland region not just the particular town in question.'
  She remarked that it is never a case that any particular town, such as Birr, is deliberately left out of the loop. She said the IDA would never consciously make a decision to not bring potential companies on visits to Birr to see if the town would be a suitable location in which to establish their companies.
  However the companies are tending to gravitate to population centres of a larger scale, which of course is not positive news for places such as Birr.
  Cllr Denis Sheils pointed out that it was about 1983 when Birr saw the last foreign company settle in the town. No foreign company has moved to Birr since. 'We have lost companies and many jobs since 1983. 
  'Our problem could be a lack of infrastructure. For example, we have no train station. But what I would like to know is what makes these companies decide on one locale over another?'
  Ms Maunsell replied that companies are thinking of time distances to airports and also quality of life. They are looking at the skillsbase of the area. She pointed out that the IDA doesn't actively market a town such as Birr but rather advertises the midlands as a whole.
  She said Birr has much going for it including a fine quality of life in a rural area and a connection with culture and heritage. Sadly many companies ignore this quality of life feature and gravitate elsewhere. She said potential companies are visiting Birr each year.
  Cllr Michael Campbell commented that it is a good thing to see an IDA representative addressing the Council's meeting. 'There is a perception out there amongst the people that Birr has been left in the dark.'
  Ms Maunsell added that the IDA is trying to attract more Irish emigrés back from abroad and informs them that there are more jobs now in Ireland for people with high qualifications. 'Companies are more and more seeking cutting edge, high-end skills from workers.'
  Cllr John Carroll said Ms Maunsell had painted a depressing picture for Birr. 'This picture is that we are a very small cog in the bigger wheel.' He added however that on the bright side Birr has been fortunate with its indigenous industries. He said there is a suspicion out there that these big companies are being steered towards the bigger towns such as Mullingar and Athlone, and Birr is not being considered at all. He asked how many company visits does the IDA host in the midlands per annum.
  Ms Maunsell replied that sometimes there are three or four per month and sometimes there are none per month. She gave an example of the process: 'A pharmaceutical company, say in Beijing, will contact the minister's office in Dublin. We then provide our information promoting the midlands as a possible destination to the Beijing company. Every region of Ireland provides its own information. And then you wait to see which part of Ireland the company wishes to visit.' She said the IDA is working closely with Athlone Institute of Technology to try and attract foreign investment.
  Cllr Ann Hynes Spain spoke of overheads and rates which in Birr might be less attractive than other midland towns. Ms Maunsell said the lower rates in the midlands does work in the region's favour as does the fact that companies can pay lower salaries here than they could elsewhere.
  She spoke of the foreign company 'Integra' which is now based in Tullamore. This company spent four years searching and with them the low rates in the midlands was a favourable thing. She said there may be more good news on the horizon and another company may be setting up in the midlands. 
  She spoke of the Birr company Nanoclean which was taken over by the American company G&K a few months ago. The IDA sees potential here for expansion.
  Some foreign companies, she added, are small in size employing about 50 people.
  She said the IDA has also taken visits to the advance factory in Birr which, she commented, is a fine building but often too big for the companies' needs.
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin pointed out that Birr is ideally situated and has plenty of space for new industry. 'We have so much going for us'. He asked how many visits were there to the advance factory in the last year. Ms Maunsell said there were very few, adding there has been a general fall-off of companies coming into the midlands. 'They are going to other countries and to other cities.' She said smaller towns such as Birr and Roscrea wouldn't receive as many visits as bigger towns such as Mullingar or Tullamore.
  Cllr Seán Doorley asked what is the midlands region and how many jobs have been created in recent years.
  Ms Maunsell replied that the midlands region is Offaly, Westmeath, Roscommon, Laois and Longford. Last year 500 jobs were created in Athlone and Tullamore. 'There were two wins in Athlone and one in Tullamore. In recent months more jobs have been created in Longford but unfortunately most of the media coverage has been of the job losses in Longford.'
  Cllr Noel Russell wondered if Ireland is too expensive. Ms Maunsell said there is a problem with that but on the other hand the rates are often an attraction. 
  The County Manager Pat Gallagher commented that he appreciates that the IDA have a very difficult job 'and the circumstances are becoming more difficult. However I think the IDA are doing a very good job. 
  'I also believe that we have to think regionally rather than locally regarding this issue. In the County Council we are acting closely with Westmeath to present a joint image.
  'The Midlands Gateway Chamber of Commerce was set up last year and is working on a marketing strategy which will emphasise the rural nature of the midlands and the fine quality of life we enjoy here. And I urge local businesses in Birr to join this Midlands Gateway Chamber of Commerce.
  'We work closely with the County Enterprise Board and Enterprise Ireland. Barry Egan is the new regional manager of Enterprise Ireland and Barry has strong links with the area.' Mr Gallagher pointed out that Birr and its environs is strongly associated with entrepreneurship. He added that the region also has a broadband network.
  Cllr Michael Loughnane, Chairman, said Ms Maunsell's news wasn't the news which the councillors wanted to hear. 'As the councillors said there are certain public perceptions out there about the IDA which you say are wrong.' He added that now that Brian Cowen is Taoiseach perhaps the midlands will see more companies locating here.

15/5/2008
Participants Receive Certificates At FAS Training Awards

The Graduation Ceremony for participants from a number of FAS training programmes run in the West and South Offaly area took place on Friday last at the West Offaly Partnership Offices at Bridge Street, Birr. Guest of Honour at the event was Mr Rody Molloy, FAS Director General.
  FAS in conjunction with West Offaly Partnership run five different types of training programmes in this region of Offaly, and cater for a great variety of needs from basic training, job preparation and business development training.
  Brendan O'Loughlin, West Offaly Partnership manager welcomed everyone and acted as MC for the Awards ceremony. Padraig Horan, West Offaly Partnership Chairperson outlined the organisation's role as sponsor for these training programmes. Padraig thanked the staff and complimented participants on their successes to date and the invaluable role FAS plays in funding these programmes.
  Roisin Doherty, FAS Regional Director, complimented West Offaly Partnership Co-Ordinators for their professionalism in facilitating these very successful Training Initiatives. Roisin outlined the various supports available through FAS for individuals wishing to re-enter the labour market or upskill in an existing role.
  Rody Molloy presented the awards to the participants. He paid tribute to all the programme participants on their hard work and wished them all the very best of luck in the future. He thanked Brendan O'Loughlin of West Offaly Partnership and his staff for the work they do. He thanked the agencies involved, their tutors and staff.
  He said that with some of the comments at the moment of the economy one would think we were on the edge of a precipice and were about to fall over. He recalled a time in Ireland when unemployment was at 15% and was going near 20%, and when it fell to 12% people allowed themselves a celebration, now unemployment is down at 6%. He said prospects and jobs have improved since then and said it was necessary to give the skills to people and match the skills to jobs. 
  He referred briefly to the opening of Tesco in Birr later in the year, and said he received a commitment that those jobs are coming to Birr.  
  The modules in the 13-week full time Lifeskills Programme are delivered as part of the Fetac Level 3 National Certificate. This programme is available to men and women aged from 16-64 and the various modules enable participants to access further training or employment. The Lifeskills Programme Co-Ordinator is Fidelma Donnelly.
  The Employment Options Programme modules are delivered as part of the Fetac Level 4 National Certificate. This 26 week programme is available to men and women aged from 16-64 who are unemployed or in part time work and it prepares participants to progress into employment. The Employment Options Programme Co-ordinator is Carmel Ormond.
  West Offaly Partnership also sponsors a 26 week Fetac Level 5 Business Start Up programme based in Crank House in Banagher. This is for unemployed men and women who are interested in acquiring skills to start their own businesses. The Business Start Up programme co-ordinator is Joan Quinlan.
  The following are those who received certificates on Friday last.
  Job Club Attendees (Certificate of Completion) - Patricia Sullivan; Mary Murphy; Margaret Kelly; Ann O'Connor; Kay Kelly.
  Business Start Up Participants (Fetac Level 5 Award) - Susan Jackson; Damien Keenaghan; Padraig Larkin; James Farrell.
  Employment Options (Fetac Level 4 Award) - Margaret Kelly; Lisa Nolan; Yvonne Cochran; Sharon Molloy. Eithne Kelly; Declan Cooke; Theresa McLoughney; Siobhan Regan; Pat Murray; Ailish Hough; Ann Maher; Finnula Campbell; Sarah Bergin.   

15/5/2008
Birr News Digest

Birr Historical Society AGM
  The AGM of Birr Historical Society will be held in Birr Library (by kind invitation) on Monday May 19th at 8p.m. A lecture will be given by architect Conor Finnegan on 'the conservation and Conversion of St John's Convent of Mercy to the Birr Civic Offices and Library'. All are welcome.

Wilmer Tennis Club 
  Entries are now being taken for the Inter Firms competition. You can enter as a team (two men, two women) or as an individual and be placed on a team. Entries must be in by this Friday May 16th as it is planned to start this competition the following week. If interested in entering, please write your name on the sheet on the noticeboard in the clubhouse or contact Therese Haverty. The competition will be completed by the end of June as the presentation Barbecue has been arranged for The Chestnut on Friday June 27th.
  Beginners nights begin on Tuesday next May 20th at 7.30p.m. If you are interested in playing why not come along. Members are also welcome to go along on these nights to participate.
  The Social Tennis Night last Friday night proved to be very enjoyable and a good crowd enjoyed a great night's tennis. The next night is scheduled for Friday week, May 23rd. Come along for a night of fun and enjoyment.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  On Wednesday 14th May there is a treat in store for all the family when the Talisman Theatre Company present an all time fairy-tale favourite; Puss In Boots. A 'purr-fect' treat! Step into a magical world presided over by the cleverest cat ever to wear boots! 
  An enchanting evening celebrating the dance and performance talent of Offaly’s children (aged 7-11) and youth (aged 12-16) takes place on Thursday 15th May in The Rite Of Summer. Choreographed by Legitimate Bodies Dance Company this is a wonderful opportunity for young people to take part in a full length contemporary dance piece. The programme also includes national and international guest artists as well as a performance by another guest youth group. 
  To celebrate Bealtaine 2008 Offaly poet Eileen Casey will read at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 16th May. Twice short-listed for a Sunday Tribune Hennessy Award, poetry (2004) and fiction (2005) Eileen is a regular contributor to Senior Times. Much of Eileen’s poetry draws on the richness of her growing up in the Midlands. A new poetry collection 'The Wolf’s Door' is due for publication in June 2008. 
  Also on Friday 16th May The New Theatre: Dublin present The Tailor & Ansty. The Tailor, Timothy Buckley, was a great storyteller and he and his wife, Ansty, used to hold court in their house near Gougane Barra in West Cork, welcoming all and providing food and drink. All human life is here – marriages, inquests, matchmaking, wakes – and always the Tailor, his wife and their black cow. This production has played to enthusiastic audiences throughout the country since its opening in July 2005.
  Birr Stage Guild’s Gala Anniversary Presentation; The Best Of Gilbert & Sullivan takes place on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May. Ann Hogan (Mezzo Soprano), John Molloy (Bass Baritone), Naoise Stuart-Kelly (Soprano) and The Gilbert & Sullivan Orchestra with Birr Stage Guild Chorus present some of the best loved overtures, choruses, quartets, duets and solos in a memorable evening of music and song. A night not to be missed!!
  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday.
  Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Meethodist Church Summer Sale
  Birr Methodist Church annual Summer sale will be held on Friday 23rd May in Frawley's original shop on Main Street, Birr from 10a.m. to 4p.m. Stalls include plants, jams, cakes, children's stall and many more. All welcome and your support would be appreciated.

Best Wishes To Reef Stained In Dublin
  Best wishes to Reef Stained, the local now well known band with Peter Kelly and Brian Murphy (Birr), Michael Dalton and Mark Finery (Portumna) in the Coca-Cola Blast Beat All-Ireland Final in the Tripod in Dublin, next Saturday, May 17th. Best wishes from all the Birr supporters heading off to Dublin on two buses, very kindly organised by Luke Garland and David Maher.  

Confirmation
  Confirmation will take place on Saturday, 17th May at 11a.m. Welcome to Bishop Willie Walsh who will confirm 84 boys and girls from the five primary schools. Please take note that there will only be limited parking in the church grounds.  

Diocese Of Killaloe - An Illustrated History
  This colourful hard back book will soon be available to purchase in St Brendan's Church. Pre-order your copy now by completing the order form and return to the Parish Office. Cost only €20. Order forms are available in the church.

Corpus Christi Procession
  The Corpus Christi Procession will take place after Saturday evening 7.30p.m vigil Mass on the 24th May. Those taking part will walk from the church to the Prayer Garden at the rear of the church concluding with Benediction. All are welcome. A special welcome is extended to the boys and girls who have just received their First Holy Communion.

24 Hours Of Adoration
  If you have a particular intention or anxiety of any kind come and pray for one hour in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.  Adoration will commence at 7p.m. on Friday, May 23rd in St Brendan's Church and will continue through the night and the following day concluding at 7p.m. on Saturday, 24th May. A time sheet will be left on the Altar rails and you may select the hour that is convenient for you.  

Busy Bodies Summer Camp
  Busy Bodies Summer Camp takes place in Killeen National School for the month of July starting on June 30th for four weeks. Phone Ann at (057) 91 21842 for more information. Forms can be got from the Credit Union, Birr. Lots of fun and enjoyable month.  

St. Pio Mass
  St. Pio Mass is on Tuesday, 20th May at 7.30p.m. Rosary at 7.15p.m.  

CRK Active Retired
  CRK Active Retired Group will host a tea evening in aid of the Alzheimers Society of Ireland in Carrig Community Hall on Monday, May 19th at 7.30p.m. Please support this very worthy cause, everyone welcome to come along and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.  

Birr Social Club
  Darts tournament in aid of the IHCPT sponsored by Brian Whelahan, nightly prizes sponsored by Jim Cashen, John Reedy, Simon Whelehan.
  The first semi-final was played on Tuesday last with the Bulldogs beating Pascal Ryan's 14-11 after a close encounter. On Wednesday night Sullivans beat Brosna Lodge 14-11 with the Brosna getting lots of chances to win the game.  
  The final on Sunday evening produced the best darts of the tournament with Sullivans (Kilcormac) 11-7 down after the singles winning six out of the next eight to level the score. This left a nailbiter with Bulldogs (Belmont) holding their nerve and finishing on their first throw at a double to win the tournament.  
 Brian Whelahan (sponsor and Honorary Club member) stood in the for absent Chairman Derek Kelly at the presentation. He congratulated the two teams for serving up a wonderful final, all the other teams who took part, the various sponsors and background people who helped make this once again a successful tournament. He thanked the prizewinners who donated their winnings to the IHCPT and hoped that they would continue to support this worthy cause.
  Raffle Winners - Paul Tyrell, B. Guinan, P. Murphy, T. O'Brien, B. O'Brien, B. Guinan, N. Melia, G. Brophy.
  The Club would like to thank the Midland Tribune for their continued coverage of club activities.
  The Club would like to wish the best to our new Taoiseach Mr Brian Cowen.  

Birr Mart
  Bullocks; 4 HER 319, €745; 2 CH 410, €865; 6 CH 573, €975; CH 470, €990; 3 LIM 445, €780; 3 FR 392, €685; 3 CH 382, €830; FR 605, €880; 2 LIM 460, €990; CH 500, €880.
  Heifers; 3 CH 442, €860; 2 LIM 453, €855; 2 HER 415, €715; 2 LIM 425, €820; LIM 490, €955; LIM 480, €920; CH 365, €695; 3 CH 280, €580; 2 HER 485, €800; 5 AA 230, €460; LIM 570, €1,040; 2 HER 388, €675.
  Dry Cows; CH 680, €925; AA 565, €670.  

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won.  Calling as usual at 8.30pm sharp.
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was divided by three pairs on 10 games Mary and Tony Larkin, Terri Kinahan and Caroline Magee, Kieran Daly and Freda Tierney. The last game went to Dick Johnston and Bill Owens while the table prize was won by Enda Carroll and Tom Smyth. Raffle prizewinners were Freda Tierney, Peggy Martin and Tony Butler. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games starting at 9p.m. sharp.  

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Winning numbers in the Highfield United lotto on the 5th May last were 2, 5, 28, 29. No jackpot winner and one match 3 winner Patsy & Thomas c/o G. Carroll. The winning numbers on the 12th May were 1, 14, 21, 23. One match three winner was T. Keane, c/o T. Grainger.  Next week's jackpot is €10,700 and the draw takes place in the Market Tavern. Thanks to The Swan this week.  

Birr Town Lotto 
  Numbers drawn in this week's Birr Town lotto were 2, 13, 14, 23 and bonus 9. No jackpot winner and one match three winner Jacella O'Meara, c/o Eamon, who receives €200. Next week's jackpot is €5,000 with the bonus number €8,000. The draw takes place in Havertys on Monday, May 19th.  Thanks for your continued support of the lotto.  

DeafHear.ie 
  Services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing people will have a Mobile Resource Unit outside Birr Post Office, Emmet Square, on Friday 16th May ‘08, from 10a.m.-1p.m. & 2p.m.-3.30p.m. The mobile unit provides information on Deafness, Hard of Hearing, Tinnitus, demonstrations of Deaftech equipment (smoke alarms, door and phone alerts, amplified telephones, communication & TV listening devices etc.) and the Services of DeafHear.ie. The unit also provides free ‘hearing screening’ for people who are concerned about their hearing. All are welcome.

Energy Efficiency Grants for Homeowners
  North Tipperary County Council is administering an Energy Efficiency Grant Scheme for homeowners in the Riverstown and Carrig areas. Funding is provided by the EU Concerto Programme and the SEI Home Energy Saving Scheme. To register your interest, call 1850 927 000 or log onto www.sei.ie.  Further information available from North Tipp County Council on (067) 44671.

Offaly Hospice
  The directors of Offaly Hospice would like to sincerely thank Kathleen and Jack O’Meara of Sharavogue for their generous donation. The donation was raised at a recent family celebration.

Lourdes Fund Social Dancing
  Lourdes Fund social dancing in Shinrone Community Centre on Saturday May 17th. Dancing 9.30a.m. to 12.30p.m. Music by Midnight Melodies. Raffle on night for valuable prizes. Door prize of €300 travel voucher sponsored by Trudi O'Leary, Roscrea Travel and Shinrone & Ballingarry Social Dancing committee. You must be at the dance to be in the draw for the door prize. Light refreshments. All welcome.

Teng Tool Demonstration
  Teng Tool demonstration van will be at Haines in Woodlands, Birr on Thursday May 22nd from 10a.m. to 5p.m. Special offers on the day (Advert).

School Enrolment Rath
  School enrolment for Rath National School for September next will take place on Monday the 26th of May at 2.15pm in the national school itself. All are welcome. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the school office beforehand; tel 05791 33011.

Birr Town Summer Soccer Camp
  Birr Town FC Summer Soccer Camp is being held this year from the 7th to the 11th July at Woodfield Park. Open to girls and boys aged 7-15 this is always a very popular camp. Application forms are now in the Birr Post Office, Kilcormac and Banagher post office. You can also book online at www.fai.ie or call 1890 653653. Don't forget you get a free personalised jersey when you book before May 15th, 2008. Don't be disappointed apply now, any local information call (086) 8892429.

Family Funday 
  Mid Ireland Tourism in association with St. Anne’s Special School are holding a Family Funday on Sunday 18th May 2008 in Grant's Hotel Roscrea from 3p.m.– 6p.m. The event will feature a Children’s Disco, Puppet Show, Magic Show, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling, Prizes and much more. Tickets are only €5 and are available on the day.
  Come along and enjoy an afternoon of fun activities for all the family. Contact Mid Ireland Tourism on (057) 9120923 for more details.
 
Carrig & Riverstown Ladies Club
  Will members please note there will be no meeting for May and June. They will regroup after the Summer break in September, when they hope to be back stronger than ever. Enjoy the summer everyone.

Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club have organized a workshop which will be presented and supervised by Mary from Sunflowers but will be held in the Birr Garden Centre at 7p.m. on Wednesday 14th May. It will involve making hanging baskets and window boxes. All bedding plants available on the night. All are welcome. Their annual summer trip this year is a visit to the Rathwood Home Gift and Garden World, Rath, Tullow, Co Carlow on Saturday July 5th. Bus leaving Ballyegan Hall at 9.30a.m. Members €20. Non members €25. All monies to be paid in full by the next meeting in June. Any enquiries contact Caroline at 9120823 or (086) 3135153.

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Weight Watchers
  Weight Watchers Birr (086) 6086067, Dooly's Hotel, Wednesdays. Class times 11.30a.m. and 12.45p.m. Evenings 5.15p.m. and 6.30p.m.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

Information Session On Garda Vetting For Childminders
  Free information session on Garda vetting for Childminders will be held in Athlone on 22nd May at 7.30p.m. If you would like to attend please phone Fiona on (057) 9370630.

Understanding Your Accounts
  Offaly County Enterprise Board is running a one-day Understanding your Accounts course on Tuesday 20th May in Days Hotel, Tullamore.  The course is designed to help business owners interpret their financial reports and accounts in order to understand and identify profitable and unprofitable parts of their business. The course fee is just €70, booking is essential. For more information or to book a place contact Offaly CEB on 057 9352971 or check out their website www.offalyceb.ie
 

15/5/2008
Council Makes Presentation To Birr Stage Guild

Birr Town Council made a special presentation to members of Birr Stage Guild on Monday evening last. 
  Birr Stage Guild is this year celebrating its 50th anniversary and to mark the event is hosting nine events in 2008 and also launched a website, www.birrstageguild.com.
  Chairman of Birr Town Council Cllr Michael Loughnane recalled the history of the Guild and what an important organisation it was in the town, bringing pleasure, tears and laughter to thousands since 1958.
  The Guild's first shows were 'Little Red Riding Hood' and 'Beyond the Mill' (both produced in '58) and they were followed by 'Cinderella' ('59), 'Robinson Crusoe' ('60) and 'Aladdin - Anyone can rob a bank' ('61).
  Cllr Loughnane recalled that John Lucey was Chairman of the first committee and Jim Fanning was the original play director.
  'One of my earliest memories is from when I was four or five and was with my Dad in Marian Hall, where the Guild's plays were performed at that time. There was a problem with the heating or the plumbing and we were up in the attic trying to find the cause of the problem.'
  Cllr Loughnane then presented a plaque to Maureen De Forge Chairperson of the Guild.
  Ms De Forge said she hopes the plaque will find a place on the wall in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre.
  She said that on the 24th and 25th of May next there will be an exhibition of memorabilia relating to the Guild on display in Dooly's Hotel. The same weekend will also see 'The Best of Gilbert and Sullivan' in Birr Theatre and Arts Centre. This show will feature Ann Hogan (mezzo soprano), John Molloy (bass baritone), Naoise Stuart-Kelly (soprano), Oliver White (tenor), the Gilbert & Sullivan Orchestra with Birr Stage Guild Chorus; Enda O'Connor - musical director.
  The nine events during the year, she continued, will include events for children and workshops. A souvenir booklet detailing the company's history over the last 50 years will also be published.
  'The original purpose behind the Stage Guild,' Ms De Forge commented, 'was to involve the entire community.'
  She said the Guild has been a great source of fun and amusement over the last 50 years.

15/5/2008
UCC Road Show In Birr Library

The Commerce Faculty Road Show will be in Birr Library on Wednesday 21st May next from 7p.m. to 9p.m.
  The purpose of the road show is to provide information to prospective senior cycle students and their parents on the suite of business programmes available from the Commerce Faculty at UCC.
  Leaving Cert students who are still undecided about their CAO preferences and who may wish to change their choice before the 1st of July deadline are most welcome to attend.
  Mature students (aged 23 years and over) who are considering applying to UCC for business courses in the academic year 2008/09 are also very welcome.
  The format of the evening will be a Power Point Presentation on the degree programmes followed by a question and answer session. Light refreshments will also be available.

15/5/2008
Birr Community Games

Swimming
  The local competition heats take place this Thursday, May 15th at 5.30p.m. in Birr Swimming Pool. This competition is open to boys and girls ranging in ages U-8 to U-16.
Athletics
  Training continues on Thursday nights at 7.30p.m. in Scurragh. All welcome.
Good Luck
  Best of luck to our hurling, camogie and rugby teams travelling to Clara on May 17th and our tag rugby teams on May 18th travelling to Ferbane.  

15/5/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Michael Loughnane Memorial
  The sun shone beautifully for the unveiling of the Michael Loughnane memorial seat at the Glenns on Sunday. MC President Michael Liffey welcomed the large gathering of members and especially the Loughnane family to the presentation. He introduced Captain Paddy O’Brien who was delighted to accept the seat in memory of a great friend and benefactor of our Club. He recalled how proud he was to win Michael’s Captain’s Prize in 1979, something he will always cherish. He noted the position of the seat looking out over the newly developed lands to which Michael gave so much time and support.  
  Michael Loughnane Jnr. on behalf of the family thanked all present, especially the officers of the club who allowed him and his family erect a permanent structure in memory of his Dad. The location would have delighted him, facing the new lands to which he contributed so much. He was immensely proud of Birr Golf Club, always strove to promote it when away from home and felt it was a great honour to represent it in inter-club matches. His Dad was a great man for sourcing sponsorship, something he had done over a twenty-five year period for the Club with no complaints. It is never an easy thing to ask for money. He paid special tribute to Francie Horan, a dear friend of his father’s, who organised the occasion and liaised with the designer of the very attractive seat, Mark Devery. 

For Your Diary
  Wednesday 14th May: Lady President’s Prize to Men. Also on Sunday. Please see time sheet for details.
  Thursday 15th May: 10.00a.m. and 10.30a.m. Seniors. Outing to Mountrath on Tuesday 20th May. 
  Thursday 15th May: 3.00p.m. to 4.00p.m. Miele. Ladies v Portarlington.
  Saturday 17th May: Minor Cup. Ladies v Glasson.
  Saturday 17th May: Senior Foursomes. Ladies v Curragh. 
  Sunday 18th May: Mr. President’s Prize to Ladies. Lady President’s Prize to Men. See time sheet for details.
  Sunday 18th May: 9.00a.m. Pierce Purcell Trophy at Mount Temple.
Results
  O’Dowd Trophy (GOY). 1st  Tommy Hogan (11) 42 pts. 2nd Michael Stephens (12) 41 pts.. 3rd  Arthur Marsh (17) 40 pts. Gross: Willie Madden (7) 30 pts. Hole-in-One at 3rd Eddie Nevin..
Inter Club Matches
  A very good week for our inter-club team with all three returning victorious. The Heineken Mixed, under Presidents Michael and Bernie, saw off Glasson by 4/2. At home were: Kathleen Doorley/ Michael Liffey, Ann Kenny/Pat Molloy, Tory Baker/ Eddie Nevin and Aileen Watkins/Billy Donlon. Away were; Gemma Butler/Bernard Kennedy, Paschal Troy/Mary Ryan and Marie Tooher/Joe Slevin. 
  On Saturday the South Leinsters faced Kilkea Castle under managers Tom King and Tony Hogan. This was a close run affair with Seamas Coakley winning the decider at Kilkea on the 19th. Playing at home were: Tom King, Pat Gleeson, Aidan Farrelly and Charlie Brophy. Away were: Jim McGovern, Seamas Guinan and Seamas Coakley. 
  On Sunday our Barton Cup men defeated Esker Hills under manager Ger Gath. At home were Aidan Hogan/Shane Guinan, Billy Donlon/Tim Kenny and John Dwyer/Ger Gath. Away were Pat Maher/John Wims and Declan Gath/Pat Molloy
  Best of luck to our Pierce Purcell team on Sunday in Mount Temple under manager Michael Stephens. The team is: Tony Fanneran/Brendan Hogan, Adrian Sheils/Louis Vaughan, Pat Molloy/Martin Young, Aidan Hogan/Willie Nolan and Enda Carroll/Matt Feenane. This is a stroke qualifying round. 
Ladies Golf
  Mr President’s Prize to Ladies will be competed for on Wednesday May 21st & Sunday May 25th.   Ladies, please note entry is by DRAW at 10a.m. & 2p.m. and by arranging playing partners after 4p.m. on Wednesday, and by arranging partners and using the timesheet AFTER 2.30p.m. on Sunday.
  Mr Captain’s Prize to Ladies held on April 30th& May 4th was won by Siobhan Tynan. Majella Duffy was 2nd, Gemma Butler took the Gross prize, and 3rd & 4th places went to Tory Baker & Liz Nolan.
  This coming week sees the Miele Fourball team play Portarlington on Thursday May 15th under the captaincy of Rita Enright. Evelyn Lynch’s Senior Foursomes take on the Curragh on Saturday May 17th and the Minor team led by Yvonne Boland play Glasson, also on Saturday. All players are practising, and we hope  the hard work and commitment will pay off and that the weather holds good.

15/5/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Under 12 Championship
  Birr travelled to Rath on Tuesday evening last to take on Drumcullen in their second game in the competition. After their victory over St Sinchill's in the first game they started with confidence and Ciara Ryan, Fiona Guinan, Ciara Doran, Gillian Irwin all had very good game and they won on a scoreline of Drumcullen 1-1 Birr 3-1. 
  The team played very well and could have won by more except for the excellent goalkeeper on the Drumcullen team. This is a great start to the competition and hopefully they will continue to improve as the weeks go by. Many thanks to Martin Hogan who did a training session with the girls and it is really great that so many are willing to give of their time to the underage camogie teams.
  Team: Emer Grimes, Audrey McAuliffe, Phillipa Ryan, Fiona Guinan capt (0-1), Amelia Field, Ciara Doran, Ciara Ryan, Dawn Whelahan, Amy Lyons, Sarah Lyons, Gillian Irwin (2-0), Jamie Spain (1-0), Subs: Aoife Hogan, Ali Lyons, Clodagh Hanniffy, Laura Kealy, Shauna Ryan.   
 
Get Well
  The club wish Roisin Watkins a speedy recovery as she broke her thumb recently.
 
Well Done
  Well done to Michelle Gleeson who represented the club on the county under 18 team who travelled to Meath on Saturday evening last and they had a good victory winning Offaly 4-13 to Meath 1-2. Michelle had a very good game playing at full forward and scored a total of 3-2 in the game.
 
Community School News
  Best wishes to the Under 14 camogie team who are playing the Leinster B final 2008 in Rathdowney GAA pitch on Thursday next 15th May at 11.30a.m. against Presentation College Kilkenny. The club have a number of players on the panel and it would be great to see the parents and family members in Rathdowney to support them. There are also players from Seir Kieran, Drumcullen, Naomh Brid and Lorrha on the panel and the captain is Niamh Reid from Drumcullen. The team is trained by Sabrina Carroll and Jeannette Feighery. We hope the can bring back the cup to St. Brendan's Community School.
 
Hard Luck
  Unfortunatly the County Under 16 were deeated in the All Ireland B final in Ashbourne on Sunday last. Four girls from the Birr club started the game Shaunna Carroll was in goals, Emily Quinlan was on the full back line, Jane McCarthy was on the halfback line and  Julie Sephens was at midfield. Caroline Soupe came onto the half foward line in the second half and Rebecca Hoctor was an unused sub. These girls have done very well all year and it was a great achievement to get to the final and the club are very proud of them.
 
First Aid Course
  The club ran a very valuable First Aid course last week for the players and managements and they would like to thank Damien Harte who gave the class and to Patricia Ryan who organized the evening. Thanks also to Dooly's Hotel for the use of the hotel to hold the class. The girls found it very interesting and we hope to have a follow on course later in the year.
 
Nutrition In Sport
  Birr Camogie Club along with Offaly Sports Partnership and Lucozade Sport are hold an information evening in The County Arms Hotel, Birr on Friday night next 16th May at 8.30p.m. The evening is open to all females involved in any sport, it is not confined to camogie players. It is free of charge, and this is an ideal to opportunity to hear from qualified personnel the importance of proper eating etc when involved in competitive sport.

8/5/2008
Birr Comhaltas To Celebrate 50 Years

The members of the Birr branch of Comhaltas will celebrate 50 years of activity during 2008. A varied and extensive programme is being planned and details of the highlights of this will be announced at a special launch session in the County Arms Hotel on Thursday, 15th May starting at 9p.m.
  Entertainment will be provided by local and visiting artists but more importantly the organisers would welcome the attendance of those who have supported Comhaltas down the years or those who might have recently come to live in the area and might not be familiar with the work of the organisation. 
  Admission is free and refreshments will be provided.  

8/5/2008
Offaly Communities To Decide On AIB Funding Of €30,000 For Children

Offaly communities will have the final say in choosing children's projects to receive funding from the AIB Better Ireland Programme. Text votes from the general public will decide which of the most deserving children’s projects should receive funding of €10,000 from each of the local AIB branches.
  The three projects shortlisted in Birr are A. Chesterfield Community Childcare. B. Kidz Krafts. C. The SUB Project. Text BIRR followed by A, B or C to 53099 for the project of your choice 
  Voting starts on Tuesday 6th May and continues until Friday 6th June (phone lines open midnight 5th May). Each text vote costs 60c including VAT plus standard network charges, and all proceeds (after operator charges & VAT) will go to the relevant short-listed group, regardless of the final voting outcome.
  AIB’s Better Ireland Programme received almost 1,300 applications for funding across the country. Applications ranged from a wide variety of groups including homework clubs, teen clubs, autistic services, community crèches, schools and colleges as well as drug and alcohol services for youth.  
  Declan Quinn, AIB Regional Director, Offaly and Shannonside said: 'This year we broadened our programme to include children with physical, sensory and intellectual disabilities and there has been an overwhelming response. During May the public will be able to vote for the most deserving children’s project in their area. The new AIB Better Ireland Programme is all about local participation, local voting and local benefit for children and we would encourage everyone to get behind their local group.'
  Each branch has been assigned a ‘short code’ and each short-listed group has been assigned a letter (i.e., ‘A’, ‘B’, or ‘C’).  To register their votes, the public must text the branch short code followed by the letter ‘A’, ‘B’, or ‘C’ to 53099. Full details on the branch short codes and group letter are available on www.aib.ie/betterireland or in every AIB branch from 6th May.

8/5/2008
Birr Artist Exhibits At European Media Art Festival

For five whole days, the city of Osnabrück in northern Germany was a lively, prominent meeting place for artists, curators, lenders and gallery owners, as it hosted the European Media Art Festival 2008. 
  Birr artist Nicky Larkin was the only Irish artist selected for this year's European Media Art Festival, where his piece 'Pripyat' was screened. 
  The festival is the meeting place for specialists from the fields of art, culture and the media, as well as an interested international audience. Each year, the festival provides a current overview of the international media art scene. 
  Around 300 current installations, films and videos were selected and shown at this year's festival from a total of around 2200 works submitted from 50 countries. With more than 16,000 visitors and 800 accredited guests, who attended the screenings, performances, lectures and the exhibition, the festival received very positive responses from both the media and the art world.  
  Nicky Larkin's 'Pripyat' is an experimental short film shot in the Chernobyl exclusion zone, funded by the Irish Arts Council. The city of Pripyat was once considered the finest place to live in the whole of the Soviet Union. A thoroughly modern city, it was built in 1970 to house the workers of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant and their families, and was once happy home to 50,000 people. 
  In the aftermath of the accident in April 1986, the residents were instructed to pack one suitcase and told they would be returning in three days. One thousand buses were drafted in from all across the Soviet Union to take the residents of Pripyat out of their now highly-contaminated homes. They never returned.  
  Twenty two years later Pripyat stands empty, a ghost town deep within the exclusion zone, the last remaining Soviet city. The haunting experimental film takes the viewer inside Pripyat to examine the relationship between time, nature and culture, in a city that will never be lived in again. The film was screened twice at the festival, where it was warmly received by critics and audience alike.

8/5/2008
Birr News Digest

Big Welcome Planned For New Taoiseach 

Newly elected Taoiseach Brian Cowen will be visiting Birr as part of his big homecoming welcome next weekend. Mr Cowen is due to arrive in Birr at 4p.m. where he will be welcomed in Emmet Square. There will be music and festivities to welcome the new Taoiseach and Mr Cowen will address the crowd from a platform in the Square. Everyone is welcome to come along and give a big Birr welcome to the new Taoiseach.

Wilmer Tennis Club AGM
  The AGM of the Wilmer Tennis Club was held on Wednesday night last. There was a very small attendance, which was very disappointing. The following officers were elected for the coming year: President - Kathleen Roe; Chairperson - John O'Callaghan; Secretary - Grainne Cashen; Assistant Secretary - Ann Quinlan; Treasurer - Amanda Kenny; PRO - John O'Callaghan.
  The next Social Tennis Night will be on Friday next May 9th at 7.30p.m. With the sun out on the long evenings, hopefully it will attract a big crowd. All are welcome.
  The next tournament on the programme is the Inter Firms, which will start in the next few weeks. Watch the clubhouse notice board for details of entries.

Four Seasons Gardening Club
  Four Seasons Gardening Club will be going to Larch Hill Garden Kilcock on Sunday next May 11th. Bus will be leaving the Square, Kilcormac at 9.30a.m. €10 deposit will secure seat. Names to Eileen at 9135152. Thanks to everyone who went on the week away. Everyone had a great time and they are looking forward to next year already.

Birr Town Summer Soccer Camp
  Birr Town FC Summer Soccer Camp is being held this year from the 7th to the 11th July at Woodfield Park. Open to girls and boys aged 7-15 this is always a very popular camp. Application forms are now in the Birr Post Office, Kilcormac and Banagher post office. You can also book online at www.fai.ie or call 1890 653653. Don't forget you get a free personalised jersey when you book before May 15th, 2008. Don't be disappointed apply now, any local information call (086) 8892429.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  As part of the Bealtaine Festival the film being shown on Thursday 8th and Friday 9th May is Grow Your Own, set on an allotment in the North of England where a bunch of grumpy old men spend their days nurturing their beloved allotments. When a family of asylum seekers from China move in the locals are less than happy. With its focus on community and a determination to challenge British fears of being swamped by immigrants, the movie has a contemporary feel.  
  On Wednesday 14th May there is a treat in store for all the family when the Talisman Theatre Company present an all time fairy-tale favourite; Puss In Boots. A 'purr-fect' treat! Step into a magical world presided over by the cleverest cat ever to wear boots!  
  An enchanting evening celebrating the dance and performance talent of Offaly’s children (aged 7-11) and youth (aged 12-16) takes place on Thursday 15th May. Choreographed by Legitimate Bodies Dance Company this is a wonderful opportunity for the young people to take part in a full length contemporary dance piece. The programme also includes national and international guest artists as well as a performance by another guest youth group. Dance classes continue at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre under the guidance of Legitimate Bodies Dance Company. Members old and new can be guaranteed a fun, friendly and safe environment where everyone can experience the joy and beauty of dance. Yummy Dance – On Tuesdays at 3p.m. Dance games for 3-5 year olds to keep them active and nurture their creativity. First Footing – On Saturdays at 10a.m. Fun sessions for 7-11 years olds with the result being shown in the Rite Of Summer on 15th May. Offaly Youth Dance – On Saturdays at 12 noon exploring contemporary dance for 12-15 year olds. They too will be performing in the Rite Of Summer on 15th May. Community Dance Classes take place on Wednesdays at 8p.m. These are a great opportunity to maintain fitness and well being in a fun and relaxing environment. Ballet for Adults. These take place on Wednesdays at 6.30p.m. and are an opportunity to enjoy the dancing whilst benefiting from the health benefits of ballet.
  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Birr Library Hosts Age And Opportunity In The Community
  Bealtaine 2008 is a festival of activity for the active retirement community. Birr Library has a series of activities to suit most interests.  
  There will be computer workshops every Tuesday morning at 10.00a.m. and Cultural mornings every Thursday at 10.30a.m. throughout May.  
  This week in the computer workshop, learn how to create an e-mail account or how to book a flight/ hotel room/ holiday.
  Sister Maeve will be presenting a talk on old Irish sayings on Thursday morning.
  There is also free internet access for all retired individuals and people over 65 years old for the month of May.
  Story time will continue throughout May on Saturday mornings at 11.30a.m. 
  Bookworms are reading 'The Black Book of Secrets' by F.E. Higgins and will met on Saturday 10th May at 2.00p.m.
  The Children’s Book Club are reading 'A Thing With Finn' by Tom Kelly and will met on Saturday 10th May at 2.30p.m.
  New members are always welcome

Apostolic Work Group
  Kinnitty Apostolic Work Group would like to thank most sincerely all those who contributed so generously to their annual display and cake sale on Sunday April 27th. Your support is very much appreciated.

Table Quiz
  Table quiz in Milnes Pub Crinkle at 9p.m. on Friday 9th May in aid of Crinkle Feile na nGael Handball team. All welcome to attend.

Slieve Bloom Walks
  The Summer Programme of guided walks in the Slieve Blooms kicks off this weekend with two walks in the Kinnitty area. Richard Jack leads a Grade B walk in Kinnitty Woodland - Duration five hours, Distance five miles. Registration at Kinnitty Community Centre at 11a.m.
  John Scully and Chris Byrne lead a guided Eco Walk in Knockbarron. Duration two and a half hours. Distance three miles .
  Registration at Kinnitty Community Centre at 11a.m.
  At this time of year the woods are carpeted in bluebells and the colours are magnificent. Why not come along and join us.
 
Family Funday 
  Mid Ireland Tourism in association with St. Anne’s Special School are holding a Family Funday on Sunday 18th May 2008 in Grant's Hotel Roscrea from 3p.m.– 6p.m. The event will feature a Children’s Disco, Puppet Show, Magic Show, Face Painting, Balloon Modelling, Prizes and much more. Tickets are only €5 and are available on the day.
  Come along and enjoy an afternoon of fun activities for all the family. Contact Mid Ireland Tourism on (057) 9120923 for more details.
 
Carrig & Riverstown Ladies Club
  Will members please note there will be no meeting for May and June. They will regroup after the Summer break in September, when they hope to be back stronger than ever. Enjoy the summer everyone.

Sunrise Golf Society
  Sunrise Golf Society had a very enjoyable day last Saturday in Birr GC for their annual Lourdes Fund Day. The weather was good, the golf was so so but the craic was good. Congrats to the following: 1st place Alan Hennessy 36 pts, 2nd Martin Talbot 35 pts, 3rd Benny Beale 35 pts, 4th Pat Gleeson 34pts, 5th Paddy Melsop 31pts. They would like to thank everyone who played and subscribed to this worthy cause especially Seán O'Meara who sponsored all the prizes on the day. Finally they wish Benny Beale the best of luck on his trip to Belarus, another worthy cause.

Birr Town Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto his week were 2, 6, 10 and 20. Bonus 29. No jackpot winner. Four match three winners each get €50  - John Guinan, Newbridge St, Birr c/o PJ, Phil McDermott, c/o PJ, Martina Breslin, c/o County Arms, Ms Horan, Meadowville, Birr. Next week's Jackpot will be €4,800 and with star prize €7,800. Next week's draw will take place in Pilkington's. Thanks for all your continued support.

Intellectual Disability Association
  The annual general meeting of the Offaly Association for people with an intellectual disability will be held in Days' Hotel, Tullamore on Tuesday 13th May at 8.30p.m. There will be a special guest speaker at this meeting.

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo: The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot next Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Calling as usual 8.30p.m. sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive: Eight pairs shared top prize on 10 games, Dick Johnston and Bill Owens, Dan Foley and Freda Tierney, Tony Butler and John Coughlan, Bertie Coleman and Stephen Lonergan, Michael Coffey and Jimmy Dolan, Liam and Marguerite Shanahan, Kieran Daly and Elsie O'Halloran and Joe Cantwell and Peter Darcy. The last game went to Tim Carey and Jack Corrigan while Marie Banaghan and Paddy Daly won the table prize. Raffle prize winners were Terri Kinahan (x 2) and Angela English. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games. Cards at 9p.m. sharp.

Birr Apostolic Works
  Birr Apostolic Works would like to thank everyone who helped and supported their sale of work and display on last Sunday 27th April.

Birr Social Club
  Darts tournament in aid of the IHCPT sponsored by Brian Whelahan. Nightly prizes sponsored by John Reedy, Jim Cashen, Simon Whelehan.  The last two quarter finals were played last week with Brosna Lodge beating the Swan Bar in a very sporting game, and Bulldogs beating M Lyons Banagher after some super darts. Raffle winners, T Kenny, D Kenny, L Molloy, P Dunne.  This sets up this week's sem-ifinals, the first between Pascal Ryans and the Bulldogs, and the second between Sullivans Kilcormac and Brosna Lodge, with the final fixed for Sunday next 11th May. 
  Snooker, the draw for the Banner Scratch Cup will be in next week's issue.

Birr Scouts
  Birr and Coolderry hosted the mini olympics for cubs in the Slieve Bloom region. Sincere thanks to Coolderry GAA for allowing Scouting Ireland to use their grounds for the event. The day was a huge success with Cubs from Tullamore, Clara, Birr, Pullough, Coolderry, Mountrath and Roscrea participating in all the events. The overall winners of the day for the Perpetual Shield which was presented by Jim Windsor McGlynn (in memory of his father) was shared jointly by Coolderry and Roscrea. 
  Birr Scouts are going on annual camp to Glenshelane, Co Waterford on the 11th July and parents are reminded to send in the consent form to any of the leaders not later than the 8th of May. The usual June bank holiday camping weekend will be held in Portumna Forest Park. This is a popular event every year since the foundation of the scouts in Birr. We have a saying in the scouts, 'once a scout always a scout'; so any of our past members are welcome to drop in for a cup of smoked tea over the bank holiday weekend.

Ballyegan Gardening Club
  Ballyegan Gardening Club have organized a workshop which will be presented and supervised by Mary from Sunflowers but will be held in the Birr Garden Centre at 7p.m. on Wednesday 14th May. It will involve making hanging baskets and window boxes. All bedding plants available on the night. All are welcome. Their annual summer trip this year is a visit to the Rathwood Home Gift and Garden World, Rath, Tullow, Co Carlow on Saturday July 5th. Bus leaving Ballyegan Hall at 9.30a.m. Members €20. Non members €25. All monies to be paid in full by the next meeting in June. Any enquiries contact Caroline at 9120823 or (086) 3135153.

Emporium At The Stables
  Emporium At The Stables, Oxmantown Mall, Birr. Home furnishings, gifts and tea rooms. In conjunction with the launch of our customer loyalty card, come and enjoy a night of 'Me' time in the Summertime. Ladies Retail Therapy Night Thursday May 8th from 7p.m. to 10p.m. Tel (057) 9120263. www.thestablesbirr.com (advert).

Birr Employment Options
  Are you interested in improving your confidence upskilling or getting back into the workforce?
  West Offaly Partnership/FAS will be starting its sixth employment options course on the 19th May 2008. This is a Fetac level 4 course
  This course runs as a full time 26 week programme, Monday to Friday 9.30a.m. to 4.30p.m. The course is open to men and women aged 16 to 64. Course content will include Communications, Maths, Personal Development, Computers, Prep for work and much more. Places are limited. The programme is free of charge; There is a training and childcare allowance available for eligible candidates (FAS terms and conditions apply). Should you require any further information please contact Carmel Ormond, West Offaly Partnership, Bridge St. Birr or phone (057) 91 21155.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 12th May. The book for this month is 'The Last Coyote' by Michael Connelly (chosen by Sandra). New members welcome. Enquiries to (057) 91 39028.  

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Birr Active Retired 
  Next meeting of the Birr Active Retired takes place on the 8th May at 7.30p.m. Bealtaine Festival Celebration in the Birr Library each Thursday in May at 10.30am.

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Weight Watchers
  Weight Watchers Birr (086) 6086067, Dooly's Hotel, Wednesdays. Class times 11.30a.m. and 12.45p.m. Evenings 5.15p.m. and 6.30p.m.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

Information Session On Garda Vetting For Childminders
  Free information session on Garda vetting for Childminders will be held in Athlone on 22nd May at 7.30p.m. If you would like to attend please phone Fiona on (057) 9370630.

Understanding Your Accounts
  Offaly County Enterprise Board is running a one-day Understanding your Accounts course on Tuesday 20th May in Days Hotel, Tullamore.  The course is designed to help business owners interpret their financial reports and accounts in order to understand and identify profitable and unprofitable parts of their business. The course fee is just €70, booking is essential. For more information or to book a place contact Offaly CEB on 057 9352971 or check out their website www.offalyceb.ie
 

8/5/2008
Birr Tidy Towns AGM

There was a large attendance at the Birr Tidy Towns Annual Walk last week. Michael Donegan once again started the walk and then proceeded to guide the group through Birr Castle grounds. A very special thanks to the Rosse Family who allowed the walk through the Castle Demesne. Also thanks to their loyal supporters who have participated in the walk and are also their main source of funding. They have sold sponsored cards and they very much appreciate their ongoing support physically and financially. 
  A special thanks to Birr Tidy Towns Committee for their input into the walk. They appreciate the assistance we receive from Birr Knights of Malta. Adj. Johhny Kennedy, Lieutenant Ann Corcoran and the two volunteers Shane Hart and Marie Bolton. 
  The lack of civic pride in BIrr leaves a lot to be desired. On seven occasions over the weekend personnel from Birr Tidy Towns cleaned up tins, bottles, boxes from takeaway in Mill Island. Tourism has always been good for Birr Town but they were dismayed to hear of ongoing dumping on the old Rath Road, Woodlane, Rock Lane, plus leaving waste in bags around certain areas of Birr. Bins are for street waste not for household waste. 
  A special thanks Liam Moran and his FAS group for planting the trees in Sandymount, Bridge St., A hearty thanks to Pat Cleary photographer for coming down to photograph the walkers and sympathy to him on the passing of his Uncle. 
  Birr Fishing club and Birr Tidy Towns have planned a worknight on Wednesday week, 14th May in the Mill Island area. The ESB Personnel have included in their 2008 programme to commence the second phase of their walking route having completed the walk from Springfield Bridge to the Red Bridge (two and half miles). The 2nd phase is from Birr Hospital to Springfield, Birr. 

8/5/2008
40th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival

The next meeting of the 40th Annual Birr Vintage Week & Arts Festival will take place this Friday 9th May at 8.30p.m. in Dooly’s Hotel. Amongst the topics for discussion will be those of fundraising and upcoming Festival events. As this is such an important anniversary it is planned to have an even more extensive programme of events than in previous years.
  As the Festival is entirely reliant on sponsorship and voluntary contributions a number of fundraisers are planned over the coming months. All funds raised will go towards the many free and subsidised events held during the week long festival. Local businesses have been contacted for contributions to the programme and the committee are hoping for continuing generous support from annual sponsors and hope that new businesses will also appreciate the value of a large-scale community Festival in increasing local commerce.
  Since the Festival Memorabilia Appeal was launched a number of people have contacted Brendan Fogarty with their memories and memorabilia. The Committee are still asking that anyone who has either old photographs (preferably with the year and names noted), newspaper articles, programmes, stories or anecdotes from previous Festivals to contact Brendan on (086) 3051699 or to post them to Brendan at 3, Roscrea Road, Birr.  These are for inclusion in the special 40th Anniversary Commemorative Programme and all items will be returned if contact details are included.  
  Please support your local festival and make 2008 the one to remember! For further information on Fundraisers or the Festival itself, please contact info@birrvintageweek.com or check out www.birrvintageweek.com.

8/5/2008
New CD Launched Before Packed Crowd In Birr

Carmel Horan officially launched her new CD to a packed banquet hall at Dooly's Hotel in Birr last Tuesday evening. The CD entitled is 'I Know Who Holds Tomorrow' and all proceeds ill be going to two charities namely Offaly Hospice and Emmanuel House, Clonfert. 
  People travelled from far and near to pack out the hotel and hear Carmel performing tracks from the new CD. Since it was released it has generated phenomenal interest and has been getting airplay on a wide variety of radio stations. 
  Carmel was joined by family and friends for the launch and there were also a number of special guest present, who all helped make it an occasion to remember. 
  Carmel Is originally from Kilcormac/Killoughey, and her family the Guinans are well known in musical circles there, but she is now residing in Banagher, where she is married to Aodh. They have two children, Sharon and Patrick. 
  The CD includes many well known tracks including 'You Raise Me Up', 'Amazing Grace', Voice Of An Angel', 'The Old Rugged Cross,' 'Wings Of A Dove' and 'Lady of Knock' to highlight a few of the gospel orientated musical themes that Carmel excels in. Carmel remarked, 'most of the hymns on the CD are based on the Gospel. They could carry each one of us over different situations.' she added.
  The CD launch was overseen by Big Ed of Radio 3 and other radio stations representatives were present also. The CD itself was produced by Dessie Sheerin in his studio in Athlone and Carmel thanked him for all his professional advice and assistance in the project. The Sheerin family provided back music for Carmel on the night, while James Kilbane was one of the other guests present for the launch. There was also a wealth of professional and established musicians who performed on the night. 
  As well as raising money for the two charities, the CD is also a fitting tribute to a friend of Carmel's who sadly passed away last February, as Carmel remarked, 'She was really the inspiration behind the venture'. 
  Carmel explained the background to making the CD. She said it all started through her friend Barbara Kennedy, a young woman from Dublin who was married to Philip with three children and living in Eyrecourt. Barbara had ovarian cancer and Carmel got to know her through Emmanuel House where she came to pray. They became great friends, 'I used to visit her and she would ask me to sing a song or a hymn. One day I sang "I Know Who Holds Tomorrow". She started onto me to make a CD. There was no stopping her. We would make for the Hospice and Emmanuel House. I was to sing and she was to launch it. But God had other plans,' Carmel recalled. 
  Carmel said it was Barbara's wish that the proceeds would be to Offaly Hospice and Emmanuel House. Emmanuel House is a registered charity and the upkeep of the centre depends on donations coming to it. 
  Carmel pointed out, 'Offaly Hospice like all Hospices are doing extraordinary work for the sick and dying.' she added, 'Emmanuel House is probably my second home. It is a Catholic prayer centre of evangelisation under the ecclesiastical calling of the Bishop of Clonfert, John Kirby. It is run by Eddie and Lucy Stones as custodians appointed by Bishop Kirby. It is a place where thousands of people came, including myself and Barbara, to experience the healing power of mind, body, soul, and spirit through the Holy Eucharist and Sacraments. This place was Barbara's second home too.'
  Carmel recalled that it was just before Christmas last year when she was in the process of recording 'The Old Rugged Cross,' that it struck her that her friend would not be with her for the launch of the CD, 'I took off the headphones and said I needed a copy to bring to the hospital. I just knew I had to get it. When I came out her husband had texted me to she wanted to see me. I brought "The Old Rugged Cross" with me. She asked me where was the CD and I played her "The Old Rugged Cross" that was a very emotional time for me.'
  One of the main guests on the night was Big Ed of Radio 3 who originally heard about the CD and had contacted Carmel. She had sent him out a copy which he put out on the airwaves. Carmel said the response was brilliant. Tipp FM, Galway Bay FM, Clare FM and even a station in New York have all played track from the album. Carmel says she just can't keep up with the demand.
  On Easter Monday Carmel did a phone-in with Big Ed on Radio 3 and she said the texts and messages coming in were very moving, ' Every person was touched by the hymns in their own different way, different events in their lives from suicide to children's deaths to sickness and loneliness or being thankful for things in their lives.' 
  The fundraising proved a tumultuous success and Carmel extended thanks to her family, friends and neighbours for their support in making the CD. The CD is, of course, on sale in all shops locally and Carmel thanked everyone who offered to stock it. She extended particular thanks to Radio 3, Big Ed and Betty, Ricey Scully and all the other stations who supported and played tracks from the album. She extended thanks to John McCann, Chairman of Offaly Hospice, who supported Carmel with ticket sales and she also thanked Emmanuel House for all their support and help also. Finally she thanked all the local businesses who have offered sponsorship and anyone else who helped her in any way.
  

8/5/2008
Witness Talented Young Offaly Dancers In 'The Rite Of Summer'

After the completion of a successful tour in Mexico, that saw this growing local dance reality performing in Mexico City, Puebla and Tlaxcala as well as teaching at the Universidad De Las Americas and at the National School of Ballet and Contemporary Dance of Mexico, the Legitimate Bodies company is back in Ireland with a new exciting project.
  Legitimate Bodies’ first outreach season, a six-week project in various Offaly primary schools, together with Offaly Youth Dance, a young dance ensemble for 12-16 year old, First Footing, a dance club for children aged 7-11 and children from Chesterfield Community Centre will culminate in an evening performance called 'The Rite of Summer' on 15th May at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre.
  Thanks to the support of Offaly County Council and Birr Theatre, the young dancers will have the opportunity to perform in a mixed bill alongside professional work from Brian Degn, a Danish dance artist on his first visit to Ireland and Rebecca Armstrong, former Joffrey Ballet dancer, now resident in Offaly.
  During the same evening 'Monitor', a short dance film featuring the choreographies of Sascha Perfect, Katarina Mojzisova and company director Nick Bryson will be screened.
The film, directed by Luke McManus and produced by Eadaoin Patton, was commission by RTE and the Arts Council under the 'Dance on the Box' scheme and has been screened during the Dublin Dance Festival and on RTE2.
  The evening is a feast of joy of movement, heartfelt yet light, don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to support a growing local dance reality and the talent of 30 young Offaly dancers.
  With group rates available, tickets are €14/12. For more info and bookings please contact Box office at Birr Theatre, 0579122911, or e-mail legitimatebodies@eircom.net. 

8/5/2008
Birr Camogie Notes 

Senior Championship
  Birr were at home to Drumcullen in Crinkle on Tuesday evening of last week and those who attended were in for a treat because this was a great game of camogie played with passion and skill by both teams and in the end Birr seemed to want it more and came away with a two point win on a scoreline of Birr 2-6 Drumcullen 2-4.
  The scoring started in the 3rd minute when Tanya Coughlan collected on the right wing, rounded her player and laid off a great hand pass for Michelle Nagle to point. Drumcullen replied with a pointed free by Elaine Dermody in the 6th minute.
  Drumcullen then added a goal and point both from play by Elaine once again and she was causing problems for the Birr backline. Then Audrey Kennedy in Birr's goals was harshly judged to have fouled and a penalty was awarded to Drumcullen and while Audrey blocked the initial shot the rebound was doubled on by Drumcullen and they were seven points clear as the ball hit the net. 
  At this stage Birr began to get going and Arlene Watkins pointed a free on 26 minutes and Michelle Gleeson who was having a great game quickly pointed again from the puckout. Birr never let Drumcullen settle on the ball and were rewarded with a great goal by veteran Deirdre Cahill who had moved from full back to full forward and doubled on a great pass from Deirdre Ryan. This was Deirdre's very first score for the club in all her years playing and gave the whole team the lift they badly needed and at half time going in only two points behind playing against the wind.
  Birr got off to the start they needed in the second half when Michelle Gleeson pointed from almost half way after a great hand pass from Michelle Nagle after two minutes. From the puckout Arlene Watkins broke forward and when fouled, pointed the resulting free. With the teams on level scores it was end to end camogie and on 9 minutes Deirdre Cahill got her second goal after a great solo and pass from Katie Bergin. 
  Drumcullen added two points but it was Tanya Coughlan who finished the scoring on 23 minutes with a well taken point from the right side. Now Birr were playing with confidence and determination and the half back line of Michelle O'Gorman, captain Sheila Sullivan and player of the match Orla Masterson were not going to let any ball through. Maura Ryan played a superb game in the full back line and Grace Ryan broke down many attacks on the left wing. 
  Kady McKenna grew in confidence as the game went on and Arlene Watkins ran all evening. Michelle Gleeson played her best camogie this year, linking up well with Mairead Dooley, Katie Bergin and Michelle Nagle who delivered good ball to the inside forwards. Deirdre Ryan crossed some lovely ball before being replaced by Jane McCarthy for the last 10 minutes and Jane got stuck in and challenged for every ball not allowing the Drumcullen backs clear them easily. Tanya Coughlan played very well especially in the last quarter of the game. 
  This was a major scalp for Birr as it is over twenty years since they beat Drumcullen in championship camogie and it shows the work that is being done by a very strong management team and the club in general over the past few years. The future looks bright for Offaly camogie in general as there is very strong competition for the senior championship this year and any club could emerge as champions.
  This was a much improved performance from last week against Naomh Brid and they will have to play at this level to be in contention at the end of the league campaign. The next round is not until 24th June after all exams are over when they travel to Shinrone who have full points from their three matches.
  Team: Audrey Kennedy, Grace Ryan, Deirdre Cahill, Maura Ryan, Michelle O'Gorman, Sheila Sullivan (capt), Orla Masterson, Kady McKenna, Arlene Watkins (0-2), Katie Bergin, Mairead Dooley, Michelle Nagle (0-1), Deirdre Ryan, Michelle Gleeson (0-2), Tanya Coughlan (0-1). Subs. Jane McCarthy for Deirdre Ryan, Shauna Carroll, Julie Stephens, Jane McCarthy, Gillian Molloy, Orlagh Kirwan, Caroline Soupe, Siobhan Rogers, Rebecca Hoctor, Dearbhaile Sheils, Shauna Walsh.
  Training for the Under 16, U-18 and senior players continues at 7.30p.m. on Tuesday, Friday and on Sunday mornings.
 
Under 12 Championship; St Sinchills 0-0 Birr 2-5
  Our under 12 team travelled to Killeigh on Wednesday evening last to take on the home team in their first game of the championship. Birr had to wait a long time for the game to commence but this did not distract them from their task and played very well and came away with a very good victory. This victory will give the girls confidence going into their next games.
  Team: Emer Grimes, Roisin Watkins, Amelia Field, Fiona Guinan (0-4, 0-3 '30's), Audrey McAuliffe, Ciara Doran, Dawn Whelahan, Ciara Ryan, Jamie Spain (1-0), Sarah Lyons (1-0), Amy Lyons (0-1), Gillian Irwin, Ali Lyons, Clodagh Hanniffy, Philipa Ryan, Aoife Hogan.
 
Best Wishes
  The club wish our girls on the county under 16 panel the very best of luck in the All Ireland B Final against Derry on Sunday next. The players are Jane McCarthy, Shauna Carroll, Julie Stephens, Emily Quinlan, Caroline Soupe and Rebecca Hoctor. Let's hope the girls bring home All Ireland medals with them.
 
Club Meeting
  The next meeting of Birr Camogie Club will take place in Dooly's Hotel on Thursday 8th May at 8.30p.m. All committee members are requested to attend.
 
30 Years Old
  Birr Camogie Club is 30 years old this year and we are in the process of organising a club reunion. So keep Sunday October 26th free as that is the date. So if you have played camogie for Birr at any stage over the 30 years, you are very welcome to the reunion, so please pass on the word to any friends who may have moved away from the area. More details will be published over the next couple of weeks. 

8/5/2008
Golfing In The Glenns

Course Developments
  With the return of the course contractors many changes and further developments have been noted. The eleventh green has been enlarged and mounds and bunkers have been added. The eighteenth now has two new bunkers and some extra drainage. Work has also taken place on the new first. Hopefully the water that lodged ther over the winter will find a new home. With the removal of protective netting and the ropes the course is taking on a more attractive appearance with all members looking forward to exciting times later in the Summer.
Michael Loughnane Seat
  On Sunday next all members are invited to attend the presentation of the Michael Loughnane memorial seat to the Club. The seat is positioned on the new fourth tee facing towards the Club which Michael loved so much. He devoted many hours of his time to the running of The Glenns and contributed most generously towards the dozens of developments over the years. His family have kindly donated the seat in his honour. A most fitting memorial to his memory. 
For Your Diary
  Thursday 8th May; 10.00a.m. and 10.30a.m. Seniors. Please note that the outing to Mountrath has been changed to Tuesday 20th May.
  Thursday 8th May; 3.00p.m. Heineken Mixed v Glasson.
  Saturday 10th May; 2.30p.m. South Leinster v Kilkea Castle.
  Sunday 11th May; 12.30p.m. Presentation of Michael Loughnane Memorial seat on new 4th tee.
  Sunday 11th May; O’Dowd Trophy (GOY)
  Thursday 15th May; Miele Fourball.
  Friday 16th May; Wheelchair Classic.
  Saturday 17th May; Ladies Cup v Glasson.
  Sunday 18th May; President’s prize to members.
  Tuesday 20th May; 10.00a.m. Seniors outing to Mountrath.
Results
  Lady Captain’s prize to the men. 1st Pat Maher (5) 41 pts. 2nd Pat Pilkington (18) 40 pts. Gross: Billy McGarry (4) 33 pts. 3rd Liam O’Brien (9) 39 pts. 4th Greg Smyth (18) 39 pts,
Seniors. Ist Eddie Nevin, Brendan Dermody, Dick Johnston 69 pts. 2nd Tom Nestor, Paul Barber, Michael Ashe 66 pts. Gross: President Michael Liffey, Tim Kenny, Tom King 44 pts.
  Birr Community School Classic. 1st Mary Lonergan, Liz Pardy, Christine Bruce, Eleanor Campbell 108 pts. 2nd Michael Stephens, Dick Johnston, John Wims, Colman Loughnane 104 pts. 3rd Ger Claffey, Yvonne Claffey, Dara Claffey, Liam Hogan 103 pts. 4th Brendan O’Carroll, Frank Kenny, Paddy Hogan, Adrian Sheils 101 pts. 5th Aidan Farrelly, Paul Cleary, Damien Barron, Tim Carroll 101 pts. 6th Tony McCormack, Michael Coughlan, Brian Guinan, Tom Rigney 100 pts.
  Longest Drive Men: Michael Lyons. Longest Drive Ladies: Ming Loughnane.
  Nearest Pin Ladies: Liz Nolan. Nearest Pin Men: Ger Coughlan.
  Bridge: 1st John/Roma Gilmartin. 2nd Tie: Phonsie/Maura Kerrigan and Cecelia Doorley and Chris Harvey.
Inter Club Matches
  Well done to the Newbridge Mixed on their exciting win over Mount Temple on Thursday last. At home were Pat Molloy/Rita Delaney and Brian Guinan /Frances Ashe. Away were David Byrne/Tori Baker, Pat Maher/Annette Kenny and Ger Gath/Ena Guilfoyle. The Byrne/Baker combination brought off the heroics of the day being four down with six to play. They won five of the last six. The Guinan/Ashe combination kept the home end up by winning a tough match on the 20th. Well done to managers Mary Ryan and Francie Horan.
  Hard luck to Tim Kenny and his Duggan Cup team who went down 3/2 to Roscrea.
  On Thursday this week the Heineken Mixed managed by Presidents Michael and Bernadette take on Glasson. At home are Pat Madden/Kathleen Doorley, Pat Molloy/Ann Kenny, Eddie Nevin/Tori Baker and Billy Donlon/Aileen Watkins. Away are Bernard Kennedy/Gemma Butler, Seamas Breen/Mary Ryan and Michael Ashe/Marie Tooher. 
  On Saturday the South Leinsters under Tom King and Tony Hogan face Kilkea Castle. At home are Tom King, Aidan Farrelly, Pat Gleeson and Charlie Brophy. Away are Seamas Coakley, Seamas Guinan and Jim McGovern. Best of luck to both teams.
Ladies Golf
  Mary Ryan, Rita Delaney & Christine Bruce were the winning team in the AIB  Ladies Irish Open Club Challenge. We hope their winning score (106 aggregate points) will rank among the best 120 countrywide giving them a place in the play-off in June.
  Evelyn Lynch’s Senior Foursome team of Mary Ryan & Martina O’Brien; Ena Guilfoyle & Anne Kenny and Kathleen Doorley & Sheila Brennan successfully defended at home against Coolattin and they now proceed to the 3rd Round.   
  Mona Collins suffered the disappointment of seeing her Challenge Team beaten by Wicklow. Betty Feighery, Liz Nolan & Aileen Watkins played at home, Kay Kelly & Liz Pardy in Wicklow. All played tough tight matches and will live to compete again.
  The Newbridge Mixed team managed by Francie Horan & Mary Ryan beat Mount Temple.

1/5/2008
Leinster Regiment To Be Granted Freedom Of Belgian City

The 2nd Battalion of the Leinster Regiment, which was based at Crinkle, is to be granted the Freedom of the Belgian City of Ledegem later this year to mark the 90th anniversary of the liberation of Ledegem by the Regiment.
  The 2nd Battalion, also known as the Birr Battalion, was one of the oldest battalions of the Leinsters and many people from South Offaly and the surrounding areas joined the regiment.
  The Freedom of the City is the greatest tribute of respect that is in the power of a municipality to offer any person or organisation and the Burgemeester and Eldermen of Ledegem in West Flanders have proposed that the award be presented to the Leinster Regiment to coincide with the 90th anniversary commemoration on October 12th of the liberation of the town by the regiment during World War 1.
  It was on October 14th 1918, during the initial phase of the Battle of Courtrai, that the 2nd Battalion Leinster Regiment, as part of the 29th Dvision  (II Corps) liberated Legegem, a town then heavily defended by the German Forces. Not long after the Great War, as part of the British Governments re-organisation of its army, the Leinster Regiment, along with all the other Southern Irish regiments, was disbanded and the connection between Ledegem and the Leinster Regiment was consigned to a brief mention in hostory. Not so, however, for the community of Ledegem, that never forgot its gratitude to this Regiment from Ireland and has maintained its linke with the descendants of those soldiders through the Regiment's Association.
  Now 90 years later the people of Ledegem have asked the Regimental Association to accept, on behalf of the Regiment, the Freedom of the City, and to march into Ledegem 'with drums beating, colours flying and bayonets fixed'.
  The Burgemeester of Ledegem, Bart Dochy, in a letter to the Association wrote 'we would like to thank and honour all those men who lost their young lives in Ledegem . . . we want to give this award as a sign of deep respect and in gratitude to the courage and strong engagement from the Leinsters.'
  Sean Cooke from Crinkle, who is PRO of the Leinster Regimental Association in Ireland, said it is the first time that such an honour has been bestowed on a regiment.
  He said that he regularly gets people calling to his home looking for the history of Crinkle Barracks and information about the Regiment and people who served in it. He said he is delighted to be able to refer them to Birr Libary, which now has a lot of material and records about the Regiment and anyone can go in there and read the information about the Regiment. He paid tribute to County Librarian Ann Coughlan and the Library staff for all their help in setting up the Leinster Regiment part of the library.
  Sean said that a lot of members of the Leinster Regiment were locals and said this is a great honour for them and all their descendants. He described it as groundbreaking and said of all the 39 irish Regiments over a period of 200 years, this is the first time that such an honour has been given to one of them.
  The Prince of Wales's Leinster Regiment (Royal Canadians) was formed as the 1st and 2nd Battalions in 1881 with the amalgamation of the 100th and 109th Regiments of Foot. The Regimental Home Depot was in Crinkle.
  During World War I, the Regiment had seven battalions, four of which, 1st, 2nd, 6th and 7th, between them saw action on the Western Front, Gallipoli, Serbia, Macedonia and Palestine. 
  During the liberation of Ledegem by the 2nd Battlalion on October 14th, 1918, two members of the Battalion, Sgt. John O'Neil and Private Martin Moffatt performed deeds that resulted in the award of the Victoria Cross.
  On June 12th, 1922, the Regiment along with the other Southern Irish Regiments were disbanded as part of the Reduction in Establishment recommended by the Geddes Committee. Veterans of the Leinster Regiment maintained the Regimental Association until there were too few surviving original members remaining alive and at this time the administration of the Association passed to the descendants of the veterans.
  The Municipality of Ledegem has a population of just under 10,000 and is located 15km east of Ieper (known as Ypres during WW1. During that war the town was occupied from 1914 by the German Army for four years, during which time they established Ledegem as a major supply depot and hospital town. While under occupation 14 citizens of Ledegem were executived for aiding the Allies. 
  In the closing stages of the War, at the start of the Battle of Courtrai, Ledegem lay directly in the path of the advancing II Corps making its capture and liberation critical to the continued advance of the British II Army. There were three Victoria Crosses awarded for action during the liberation of Ledegem and two of those went to soldiers in the Leinster Regiment.
  Of the 1,126 allied soldiers that were killed in action during this period and that are buried in the three Commonwealth War Grave Cemeteries in the area, over 300 were from Irish Regiments.
  Now the actions of the Leinster Regiment in freeing Ledegem are to be recognised with the Freedom of the City next October.

1/5/2008
Bank Of Ireland Birr Retains National Title 

Bank of Ireland Birr has retained the title of 'Business Banking Retail Branch of the Year' at the 2008 National Excellence Awards. This is the second year in a row that the branch has won this prestigious award that recognises the retail branch that has made the most significant contribution in delivering products and services to its customers as well as achieving excellent standards of customer service. 
  This is the 6th year of the National Excellence Awards that are designed to recognise outstanding performance in three key areas of Bank of Ireland's banking business – customer service, sales and people. 
  Commenting on the Award, Seamus Pierce, Branch Manager, said, 'It is fantastic to be recognised at national level and a huge honour to retain the title for two years in a row. This success is thanks to the hard work and commitment of the team here in the branch who have worked very hard in the last 12 months to achieve this result. Because we know the value of quality service we will continually strive to improve our proposition for the Birr community and businesses we serve'. 
  Speaking at the Awards, Richie Boucher, Chief Executive Retail Financial Services at Bank of Ireland said: 'The Excellence Awards give us a platform to recognise individuals and teams who have excelled throughout the year, while also acknowledging the leadership and professionalism in the branches and business units they represent. This is a terrific accolade for Seamus and his team at Birr and I wish them continued success'. 

1/5/2008
Excellent Standard Of Entries In Castle Photographic Competition

The Official Exhibition, launch and Awards ceremony of the Birr Castle Demesne Public Photography Exhibition and competition took place last Friday at the Exhibition Gallery in the Historic Science Centre. 
  Speaking on the occasion, Jennifer Pike PRO, welcomed everyone to the first ever Public Photography Competition at Birr Castle Demesne. She remarked on behalf of those who contributed to the event that such an Exhibition would not have been possible without those who inspired it.
  Lady Rosse reiterated these sentiments adding, 'We could not have put on such an event with similar interest without our friends over the years who have shared our passion for the gardens and expressed it through beautiful photography.'  On behalf those who helped to contribute to the successful inaugural Public Photography Exhibition at the Castle Demesne Jennifer added further, 'We wish to thank all of the participants in the competition, for contributing to the creation of a charming exhibition which will remembered, it is hoped, for many years to come.' 
  Thanks were also extended sincerely to the judges who adjudicated on a very high standard of entries. 'We would also like to extend a sincere thank you to our judges, Marc Doyle, Jeff Harvey, Chris Sprucefield and Lady Rosse, who have volunteered their time to make some very difficult adjudication decisions given the level of talent on display here today. We thank also Shane Hollywood, Jimmy Bennett, Naomi Mooney and Philomena Jordan, who created the exhibition display. Sponsorship for the event was provided and made available by Emma Nee of Birr Theatre & Arts Centre, The Irish Game and Country Fair, The Birr Scientific and Heritage Foundation and the Courtyard Café.'
  The enthusiasm of the public entries must have been endemic because the staff also got enthusiastically involved displaying their very own photographic works of the Castle Gardens and its majestic environs. It was inevitable, therefore, that a separate and well spirited  rivalry sprung up amongst the staff who endeavoured to capture the heart of the Demesne through their cameras. 
  Professional photographer, Jeff Harvey, whose pictures of the Birr Castle Gardens have received much acclaim, remarked candidly, 'I am truly astonished, to say the least, with regard to the standard on display here today. It certainly can be said without hesitation that the standard here today would have anyone under the belief that these photographs were carried out by professionals. People's abilities truly amaze me at times. The works here on display here contain some truly astonishing moments captured in time. I hope people take the opportunity to view these photographs and find them as inspiring as I have.'
  There were a number of categories of prizes up for grabs at the Exhibition, amongst them were The Grand Overall Prize which included an Award Certificate, Friends of the Demesne One Year family Membership, two tickets to the Birr Theatre - a show of their choice, Family Pass to the Irish Game and Country Fair (30th-31st August) and Cream tea for two in the Courtyard Café. The Grand Overall Prize went to David Manzor for a stunning photograph depicting a convoy of ducks on the Lake of the Demesne in the process of taking flight. The image was quite profound in that it was equally viewable inverted as it was right side up. The photographer had captured a quite unique effect whereby the clouds were reflected in the glassy lake and were spread out amongst the ripples. It was a fusion of motion capturing in time forever a magical moment. The photo was also in black and white. 
  Launching the Exhibition was the Chairman of the Birr Town Council, Cllr Michael Loughnane, who also expressed many plaudits on the standard of the entries, some of whom were close colleagues and friends he has known for many years. 'I hope this will become a annual event, as you can see for yourself the standard is obvious and very high.'
  Judge Jeff Harvey concluded the event with the remarks, 'Everyone here desires a round of the applause. They have put in great effort in these displays. It is just unfortunate that we have to pick out a winner amongst so many excellent entries. The decisions were very difficult to make which reflects the standard on display here today. Everyone who put photographs on display here today is, in my opinion, a winner. This exhibition will be on display at the Castle for the following two months and I sincerely recommend that people drop in to take a look.'
  On a final note, PRO Jennifer Pike remarked that all competition winners who were not at Friday's launch can pick up their prizes at the reception desk at the Castle Demesne. 
  The other prize results were as follows: Best Landscape - Patrick O'Meara, Wildlife Award - Nora Skehan, Flora Award - Margaret O'Farrell, Creativity Award - Carol Kennedy, Heritage Award - Martin Spillane, Staff Award - Jennifer Pike. 

1/5/2008
Late Mr Ger Dunne, Birr

The death took place last week of Ger Dunne, Moorpark Street, Birr. Ger was a well known and much respected solicitor working in Birr who had been suffering from an illness for the last two years.
  Ger was only 50 years of age when he passed away and there was a very large turnout for his Funeral Mass in St Brendan's Catholic Church on Thursday morning last.
  He began working in Tom Enright's solicitor's practice in 1976 in a secretarial capacity. Next, he was indentured as an apprentice solicitor and when he eventually qualified went to work in the Department of Posts and Telegraphs, GPO, Dublin.
  This department split into An Post and Eircom and the Birr solicitor worked with An Post.
  After several years he returned to Birr where he worked in Tom Enright's practice once more, this time as an assistant solicitor.
  He also worked for several years in Carlow Town with Willie Clarke in Clarke Jeffers Solicitors. During this period he commuted every day between Birr and Carlow.
  Ger set up his own practice on Castle Street, Birr in 2000 and he established a substantial and well respected practice here which is called Gerard Dunne & Co. Michael Deegan, legal executive, and Bridget Sullivan, receptionist, continue to work in the practice.
  'We have built up a good practice,' commented Michael, 'and we are located in lovely offices. We want to keep the practice going.'
  Ger grew up in Castle Street, the son of Edward and Josephine. Edward originally came from Killoughey near Kilcormac.  Ger had two brothers, Charles, who lives in Waterford and Eamon who lives in Kilkenny.
  He married Jackie née Cloonan, also from Birr, and they had two children, Rory and Laura. Rory, who is 23 years of age, is presently doing a postgraduate course in Trinity College Dublin, and Laura is 12  years of age.
  Ger's hobbies included music and gardening. He loved playing the piano and would play different musical genres and his garden drew the admiration of those he showed it to. Ger took pleasure in cycling as well and often could be seen biking around the town and environs. He also had an interest in history and was a member of the Birr branch of Fine Gael.
  Amongst the large attendance at last week's funeral were a large representation of the local legal profession and former district court Judge Michael Reilly and present district court Judge Derek McVeigh. All the solicitors offices in Birr closed on Thursday as a mark or respect.
  In his sermon Fr Michael Reddan said Ger was a very sociable and companionable person. He also enjoyed respect from the clients that he represented in court. Sometimes Ger would travel a long distance to represent just one client in court, would sit through the court session all day, and be told at day's end that there wasn't enough time to hear his case, that it would have to be adjourned. Ger was a compassionate person who wanted to see his clients amend their behaviour and go on to live with troublefree behaviour.
  Fr Reddan said he had come to know Ger well over the last six months and they had enjoyed many conversations together.
  'Ger was a good friend of mine,' commented Tom Enright, 'and I thought he was a very fine solicitor. He was a friendly person to meet at all times.'
  Michael Deegan recalled that Ger was a man of wit and humour, that he was 'a man of the people who treated every client in the same way.'

1/5/2008
Birr News Digest

Alzheimer Society Tea Day
  The Alzheimer Society of Ireland will be hosting a Tea Day at Birr Resource Centre on Thursday, 1st May between 10a.m. and 3p.m. All are welcome and there will be a raffle and some nice refreshments to be had also, so please call in. All are very welcome.

Wilmer Tennis Club AGM
  The AGM of the Wilmer Tennis Club has been rescheduled for this Wednesday night April 30th at 8p.m. in the clubhouse. Last week's meeting was postponed as a mark of respect following the death of Ellen Horrigan, mother of former Club President, Eileen Delaney. Sympathy is extended to the family on their loss.
  All members are requested to attend the AGM. This is when decisions are made and you can have your say in the running of your club, so a good attendance would be appreciated.

Birr Town Summer Soccer Camp
  Birr Town FC Summer Soccer Camp is being held this year from the 7th to the 11th July at Woodfield Park. Open to girls and boys aged 7-15 this is always a very popular camp. Application forms are now in the Birr Post Office, Kilcormac and Banagher post office. You can also book online at www.fai.ie or call 1890 653653. Don't forget you get a free personalised jersey when you book before May 15th, 2008. Don't be disappointed apply now, any local information call (086) 8892429.

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  On Friday 2nd May Liam Kirwan, local comedian, performs 'A Tribute to Comedy Legends' with MC Mr Will O’Callaghan. All proceeds will be donated to Lynn Brophy’s participation with the Serve project in the Phillipines. Serve strives to improve the lives of all people, especially impoverished young people in the developing world.  
  Legitimate Bodies Dance Company, in conjunction with Bealtaine Festival presents the first in the series of Movement To Music Classes for Senior Citizens on Tuesday 6th May. These will take place every Tuesday for four weeks and are gentle movement sessions that bring benefits for joint mobility, posture and muscular tone while stimulating the creative mind. You are not too old to be young!
  The Bealtaine Festival Film on Thursday 8th and Friday 9th May is Grow Your Own, set on an allotment in the North of England where a bunch of grumpy old men spend their days nurturing their beloved allotments. When a family of asylum seekers from China move in the locals are less than happy. With its focus on community and a determination to challenge British fears of being swamped by immigrants, the movie has a contemporary feel. 
  Box office opens 1p.m.-5.30p.m. Monday-Friday. Contact (057) 9122911 or check out www.birrtheatre.com for further details.

Rambles In Eireann
  Sunday, 4th May meet at 2.00pm in the Kilcormac Community Centre car park for the Lough Farmlands Loop walk. This is a fairly easy two hour 7km walk on level farm tracks. Tea afterwards in Feighery's Kilcormac. 
  Subscriptions are now due. These are: family - €25, single €18 or €3 per walk. These membership fees go mainly to fund the Group Public Liability Insurance Policy.
  Visit our website : www.ramblesineirinn.org .

Birr Active Retirement Group
  Birr Active Retirement Group storytelling in Birr Library on Thursday May 1st at 10.30a.m. after Mass in St Brendan's Church. All are welcome.

Social Dancing
  Social Dancing in Rath Community Hall on Thursday May 1st. Music by Dermot Lyons.

Emporium At The Stables
  Emporium At The Stables, Oxmantown Mall, Birr. Home furnishings, gifts and tea rooms. In conjunction with the launch of our customer loyalty card, come and enjoy a night of 'Me' time in the Summertime. Ladies Retail Therapy Night Thursday May 8th from 7p.m. to 10p.m. Tel (057) 9120263. www.thestablesbirr.com (advert).

First Anniversary Sale
  Zandra Fashion House and Zandra 2, Main Street Birr, first anniversary sale starts today Wednesday April 30th. See Page 3 for details (advert).

To Russia With Love
  Well done to Alice Williams and all who took part in the 'To Russia With Love' walk on Sunday, April 6th.  The very impressive total of €10,100 'and counting'!) was raised for this very worthy event. 

Birr Employment Options
  Are you interested in improving your confidence upskilling or getting back into the workforce?
  West Offaly Partnership/FAS will be starting its sixth employment options course on the 19th May 2008. This is a Fetac level 4 course
  This course runs as a full time 26 week programme, Monday to Friday 9.30a.m. to 4.30p.m. The course is open to men and women aged 16 to 64. Course content will include Communications, Maths, Personal Development, Computers, Prep for work and much more. Places are limited. The programme is free of charge; There is a training and childcare allowance available for eligible candidates (FAS terms and conditions apply). Should you require any further information please contact Carmel Ormond, West Offaly Partnership, Bridge St. Birr or phone (057) 91 21155.

Book Club
  The next book club meeting will be held on Monday, 12th May. The book for this month is 'The Last Coyote' by Michael Connelly (chosen by Sandra). New members welcome. Enquiries to (057) 91 39028.  

Birr Tidy Towns Sponsored Walk
  Birr Tidy Towns Annual Sponsored Walk will take place on Wednesday, 30th April at 7.15p.m. Those participating will meet in Emmet Square. They will then walk from the Square to Birr Castle and commence the five kilometre walk in the Castle grounds. 
  Tidy Towns intend to do a water feature on the Mill Island and provide street furniture. They have planted white thorn trees at Sandymount, Bridge Street and the Crescent. Also included in their 2008 plan is upgrading unsightly areas. They need the support of the people of Birr. The cost of the water feature will be approximately €4,000, street furniture €1,000. Their long term goal is to install the railings in Emmet Square and install a sculpture whose theme should have relevance to Birr Town. Please support them financially and physically in their endeavours.  

Crinkill Handball And Recreation Centre Table Quiz
   Crinkle Handball and Recreation Centre are holding a table quiz in Milne's Pub Crinkle on Friday May 2nd at 9p.m. Everyone welcome.
  
Childminder Network Night
  Childminder network night will take place on 8th May at 7.30p.m. in Tullamore. The night will consist of discussion on Childminding policies and procedures, followed by talk on beauty care. If you would to attend please phone Fiona on (057) 93 70630. 

Information Session On Childminder Tax
  Free Information session on the Childminder Tax exemption will take place on the 14th May at 7.30p.m. in the Jobs Club in Birr. If you would like to attend please phone Fiona on (057) 9370630.

Music Nights At The Chestnut 
  Music event on Wednesday nights at the Chestnut (Advert).  

Social Dance
  Mike Denver will be playing in the County Arms Hotel on Monday, 5th May at 10a.m. in aid of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. All proceeds will go to providing Home Care, Respite and Day Care for those who suffer from Alzheimer's/Dementia in the Offaly area. Your support would be much appreciated. Their office is based at No. 2 St John's Place, Birr, Co. Offaly.  You can contact them at (057) 91 25909.

Birr Social Club
  Darts tournament in aid of the IHCPT sponsored by Brian Whalehan, nightly prizes sponsored by Jim Cashen, John Reedy and Simon Whelehan. Only two matches played this week with Brosna Lodge (2) beating K. Flannerys 14-9 and P. Ryans bt Brosna Lodge (2) 14-11.
Raffle Winners - K. Flannery, R. Cannon, P. Daly, G. O'Meara.
  This week sees the last two quarter finals between Brosna Lodge (1) and the Swan Bar and Bulldogs v M. Lyons. Next week the two semi-finals will be played with the final on that weekend.

Birr Active Retired 
  Next meeting of the Birr Active Retired takes place on the 8th May at 7.30p.m. Bealtaine Festival Celebration in the Birr Library each Thursday in May at 10.30am.

Sunrise Golf Society
  Next outing on the 3rd May in Birr Golf Club in aid of the Lourdes Fund. All members please try to attend.  

Camcor Bridge Club
  Results as follows 1st Nett Colette O'Brien, Margaret Feehan; Gross Liz Edge, Judy Craig; 2nd Nett John Gilmartin, Theresa Kelly.  

Birr Mart
  Bullocks; LIM 595, €1,145; AA 415, €775; 3 LIM 483, €905; CH 540, €925; 2 LIM 355, €675; LIM 535, €980; BB 480, €855; 4 LIM 369, €640; HER 425, €785; CH 495, €900.
  Heifers; CH 545, €960; 5 CH 238, €550; SIM 345, €740; SIM 470, €880; HER 470, €770; 4 CH 463, €905; LIM 510, €915; 2 CH 473, €895; CH 390, €810; LIM 585, €985; 3 CH 280, €600; 2 SIM 433, €795.
  Dry Cows;  FR 610, €660; AA 540, €630; BB 550, €825; CH 570, €720.
  Sale as usual next Monday, 5th May, Bank Holiday Monday.

Highfield Utd Lotto
  Numbers drawn in this week's Highfield United lotto were 2, 7, 24, 28. No jackpot winner and two match three winners each receive €75 Marian Grainger, c/o T. Grainger, Judy Cooney, c/o A. Cooney. Next week's jackpot is €10,400 and the draw takes place in the Cherry Tree.  Thanks to Craughwells this week.  

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot next Friday night is €3,000 on 46 calls with a top game of €300 if not won.  Calling as usual at 8.30pm sharp.
  Progressive 25 Drive; Two pairs shared top prize with 11 games on Sunday night last Joe Cantwell and Peter Darcy, Kieran Daly and Elsie O'Halloran. Jack Corrigan and Adi O'Donoghue shared third place. The last game was won by Jack Maher and Stephen Lonergan, while Michael Carroll and Ramie Horan got the table prize. Raffle prizes were won by Dan Foley, Peter Darcy and Jimmy Dolan. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games starting at 9p.m. sharp.  

Birr Town Lotto
  Numbers drawn in the Birr Town FC lotto this week were 19, 21, 23, 27, bonus 16. No jackpot winner and one match three winner Eddie Nevin, New Road gets €200. Next week's jackpot is €4,800 with the star prize of €7,800. Next week's draw will take place in Nolans. Thank you all for your continued support of the lotto draw.  

Riverside Summer Camp Birr Rugby Club
  Registration Day is on Saturday, May 3rd. Playdays Playschool, Emmet Street, Birr 9.30a.m.-11.30a.m. Age 4-9 years. For more information contact Anne (086) 1954743.  

Birr Resource Centre
  Birr Resource Centre is a community facility, providing affordable meeting space for community and voluntary groups.  There is a free administration service available to local groups. 
  This coming Thursday 1st May the Alzheimer’s Society are holding their Annual Coffee Morning here, this is a very worthy cause please show your support and drop in for a cuppa everyone welcome.
   Judy Pearsons art class has reconvened on Tuesdays from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm.
  For more information please call 0579121912 or email birrresourcecentre@eircom.net 

Weight Watchers
  Weight Watchers Birr (086) 6086067, Dooly's Hotel, Wednesdays. Class times 11.30a.m. and 12.45p.m. Evenings 5.15p.m. and 6.30p.m.

GROW
  A Grow Group meets each week in Birr. If you are someone who experienced depression or anxiety attacks or who is simply in need of company do come along. You will have an opportunity to meet others, share your problems in confidence, get support and make new friends. All are welcome. No fees. Meetings take place in the Community Health Centre, The Convent, Wilmer Road, Birr at 7.30p.m.  every Tuesday. For further information please contact Assumpta on (086) 8114135 or (057) 9351124. Website: www.grow.ie Infoline: 1890 474 474.

Dochas Offaly Cancer Support Group
  Birr Outreach Service is located in Health Centre, St John's Terrace. Open on Tuesdays from 10.30a.m. to 2p.m. They offer support and information to people living with cancer and their families and friends. Drop in for a chat and a cuppa. All welcome. Totally confidential.
  Volunteers needed. Training provided. Application forms can be obtained from Teach Dochas on (057) 93 28268.

Farmers Vegetable Market
  Farmers Vegetable Market will be in the Marian Hall Car Park every Saturday between 10a.m.-5p.m. (Advert)

Medical Herbalist 
  Emmett Walsh,  M.IIMH, M.NIMH, MSc (Herb Med), P.G.Dip (Herb Med),. B.Arg.Sc. (Hons) Clinic at Roscore, Blueball, Tullamore. Tel: (087) 2613042 or (057) 93 55844 by appointment only. Clinic at O'Meara's Pharmacy, The Square Birr on Wednesdays. (Advert)

1/5/2008
Bealtaine Festival Events At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

Bealtaine is the Irish national arts festival celebrating creativity in older age. It takes place each May countrywide and involves thousands of participants in events in every art form. Taking its name from the ancient Celtic festival celebrating Springtime, Bealtaine celebrates renewal, creativity and growth in ageing. Bealtaine is co-ordinated by Age & Opportunity - the national organisation working to promote greater participation by older people in society.
  On Tuesday 6th May Legitimate Bodies Dance Company in conjunction with Bealtaine Festival presents the first in the series of Movement to Music classes for senior citizens. These will take place every Tuesday for four weeks and are gentle movement sessions that bring benefits for joint mobility, posture and muscular tone while stimulating the creative mind. You are not too old to be young!
11.30a.m.– 12.45p.m. €5 (pay for four classes get T-Dance free on 29th May)  
  The Bealtaine Festival Film being shown on Thursday 8th & Friday 9h May is Grow Your Own directed by Richard Laxton. It is set on an allotment in the North of England where a bunch of grumpy old men spend their days nurturing their beloved allotments, whilst passing comment on their neighbours’ vegetables. When a family of asylum seekers from China move in on their precious patch the locals are less than happy.With its focus on community and a determination to challenge British fears of being swamped by immigrants, the movie has a contemporary feel.  
(West Offaly Community Transport Bus arrives in Birr by 11a.m. from Rath/Kilcormac, Kinnitty, Banagher)
Thursday 8th May, 8p.m. Friday 9th May, 11a.m. €7/5/3 (in celebration of Bealtaine Festival senior citizens €3)
  To celebrate Bealtaine 2008, Offaly Poet Eileen Casey will read at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 16th May. Twice short-listed for a Sunday Tribune Hennessy Award, poetry (2004) and fiction (2005), she is a regular contributor to Senior Times. Much of Eileen’s poetry draws on the richness of her growing up in the Midlands. Colourful characters and humorous memoir create the landscape for her early work, forming a well the poet constantly returns to for inspiration.  
  A poetry collection The Wolf’s Door is due for publication in June, 2008.
  (West Offaly Community Transport Bus arrives in Birr by 11a.m. from Rath/Kilcormac, Kinnitty, Banagher). 11.15a.m. €8 (in celebration of Bealtaine Festival senior citizens €5)   
  Based on the novel by P.J. O’Connor The Tailor And Ansty performed by The New Theatre:Dublin comes to Birr Theatre & Arts Centre on Friday 16th May. The Tailor, Timothy Buckley, was a great storyteller and he and his wife, Ansty, used to hold court in their house near Gougane Barra in West Cork, welcoming all and providing food and drink. All human life is here – marriages, inquests, matchmaking, wakes – and always the Tailor, his wife and their black cow. When the ban, imposed by the State Censorship Board in 1942 was lifted, Cross’s novel about their life was adapted by P.J. O’Connor and was first performed in The Peacock theatre in 1967.  
This latest production has played to enthusiastic audiences throughout the country since its opening in July 2005. 8p.m. €16/14 (To celebrate Bealtaine Festival older persons group rate available)
  An Afternoon Tea Dance in conjunction with Bealtaine Festival takes place on Thursday 29th May.  Bring yesteryear back to life in this unique opportunity to socialise and dance to nostalgic music. And if you don’t know the steps, just come and have a cup of tea! Short performances from Legitimate Bodies members and Offaly Youth Dance will provide great entertainment too.
4p.m.- 5.30p.m. €5.

1/5/2008
Birr Dancer To Feature On RTE

As Part of the Dublin Dance Festival 2008, RTE and the Arts Council has come together to bring television viewers four short dance films called Dance on the Box.
  Birr based dancer Nick Bryson of Legitimate Bodies Dance Company will feature in a short dance film called Monitor on Thursday May 1st at 11.15pm on RTE2.
   The last time RTE collaborated with the Dublin Dance Festival on this type of project the films were watched by over half a million people and went on to over thirty dance and film festivals around the world.
  Since establishing in Offaly eight months ago, Nick and Cristina from Legitmate Bodies have been making their mark not only locally but nationally and internationally. They have recently returned from performing in Mexico and Cristina has won a prestigious place on the Dance Web European Scholarship Programme in Vienna. Locally they will showcase the work of the Offaly Youth Dance Company on May 15th and also host a Tea Dance for the Bealtaine festival on May 29th, both at Birr Theatre and Arts Centre.

1/5/2008
Super Blues Enjoy Day In The Sun As They Outclass The Masters

Tullamore 3-9 Birr 0-15

TULLAMORE sensationally rallied with three second half goals to deservedly defeat All-Ireland finalists Birr in an enthralling Senior Hurling Championship encounter in Moystown on Saturday last.
  When Dylan Hayden sent over a superb point to put Birr 0-14 to 1-8 ahead with three minutes remaining in the second half, Tullamore looked to be drifting inevitably towards defeat but they never panicked, kept trying to do the right thing and goals from Shane Dooley and Francis Kerrigan in the dying minutes sealed an unlikely but merited win.
  A sensational game of hurling that provided magnificent entertainment for the passionate crowd had enough twists and turns worthy of a novel and the climax was fitting of a thriller. With an unseasonal sun beating down on Moystown on a perfect evening for hurling and a double header at the venue for the opening of the Championship, there certainly was a festive atmosphere at the game.
  For Tullamore, the win represents a sensational turnaround after a mediocre couple of years and player/manager Kevin Martin will argue that this team has taken time to build and is now coming together nicely for the championship. The signs of that were there last year when they produced a brilliant second half display to see-off the challenge of Kilcormac/Killoughey in the group stages. Birr were their conquerors in the quarter-finals however and they went all the way to a seventh Leinster final before succumbing to Portumna in the All-Ireland decider.
  The opening round of the SHC promised excitement and despite having taken a break since the defeat to Port