13/12/2007
Macregol Gospel Facsimile Presented To Council

The only copy facsimile of the Gospel Book of Macregol, also known as the Book of Birr, the Rushworth Gospels and Bodleian Ms D2.19. was officially handed over by Birr Historical Society to Offaly County Council at a reception last Wednesday evening held at the Birr Library and Civic Offices. This represented the culmination of many endeavours over the years by historians and local interest groups in Birr to bring back home to Birr this rich and profound manuscript. 
  The Macregol gospels are a testament to the master scholars of monastic Ireland whose works of art and illuminations filled the pages of the book of Kells, the Book of Durrow, the Book of Dimma, the Stowe Missal and many others. The gospels of Macregol were a beacon of light in a Europe plunged into the Dark Ages (c. 800AD). Macregol would have heard eye witness accounts of a battle fought between Birr and Clonmacnoise in 756 AD and would have known all too well about Viking raids that terrorised the local populace, many of their objectives, of course,  were the treasures housed in the local monasteries. The first Viking raid on Ireland took place in 795 during Macregol's lifetime.  
  Macregol's gospels are a priceless legacy to Ireland's rich Monastic heritage, as Margaret Hogan wrote in her book on the subject, 'Macregol wrote in a remarkably lovely hand called insular majuscule which somewhat resembles the hands of the Book of Kells and also that of the Faddenmore Psalter, found in a bog in 2006 in Birr Parish, near Carrig.' 
  Also like these other great works of art the Macregol gospels were adorned with motifs including spirals, frames with appendages, display letters, key patterns, tile patterns, an abundance of ribbon and animal interlace and confronted heads, the robes of the evangelists were depicted in thick swirls of red, green and yellow pigment. As Margaret pointed out in her pamphlet the pigments were probably derived from red lead, orpiment, copper sulphate and some vegetable dye. The vellum pages represent the skins of at least eighty five calves, a tumultuous sum indicative of the wealth associated with the Birr Monastery of the day.
  Amongst the many Councillors and public representatives present for the final presentation of the Macregol facsimile was the President of the Birr Historical Society, Rev. Irene Morrow, Researcher Margaret Hogan who wrote a detailed pamphlet on the manuscript, Project Co-ordinator Teresa Ryan-Feehan and Treasurer Bridget Sullivan. Others present were Cllr Michael Loughnane (Chairman Birr Town Council), Most Rev.  Willie Walsh, Bishop of Killaloe, Ann Coughlan (County Librarian), Cllr Tony McLoughlin, Pat Gallagher (County Manager). Cllr Tony McLoughlin accepted the hand over of the one and only copy facsimile of the Macregol gospels on behalf of the County Council. 
 President of the Birr Historical Society, Rev. Irene Morrow whilst outlining the history of the book, was keen to emphasise that ultimately this was a religious manuscript, as indicated by the lower two panels of Macregol's colophon and inscription: 'Macregol dipinxit hoc evangelium. Quicumque legerit et intellegerit istam narrationem orat pro Macreguil sciptori - Macregol illuminated this Gospel. Whoever reads and understands the narrative, pray for Macregol the scribe.'
  It was the above inscription that the Jesuit, Rev. Charles O'Connor of the O'Connor Don family, Co. Roscommon referred to in 1814 as evidence of the manuscript's distinctly Irish origin; up until that point it had been believed that these Gospels were Anglo-Saxon.  
  Macregol's name was recorded in the Ulster annals on the occasion of his death in 822 AD. Macregol had been the scribe, abbot and bishop of the monastery founded by St. Brendan the Elder at Birr in the mid sixth century.  As President of the Birr Historical Society, Rev. Irene Morrow remarked it was most unusual to find one man described in the Annals as fulfilling all the posts of scribe, bishop and abbot.
  As was explained in Margaret Hogan's book it was about AD 800 that Macregol wrote the manuscript of the four gospels in Latin. Macregol worked in what is known to scholars today as Irish half-uncial script. The Macregol Gospel manuscript is a copy of the Four Gospels of 169 vellum folios about 350mm high and 270 mm wide. 
  The manuscript disappeared twice for generations at a time and then reappeared. Somehow in about 975 it appeared in England. It was very plausible, as Margaret Hogan stated in her book, that the manuscript may have been taken there after the Viking raid on Birr in 842 AD. There were close connections between the Viking kingdom of Dublin and that of York at the time. 
  President of the Society, Rev. Morrow,  referring to Margaret's book remarked that it was in about 1000 AD that Farman and Owun, clerics somewhere in Britain, translated Macregol's original Latin text into Old English, writing their translation on the manuscript between the Latin lines (this is referred to today as a gloss by scholars). The Macregol Gospel gloss is the second oldest surviving translation of the Four Gospels into any version of the English language. The oldest is the Book of Lindisfarne. 
  Farman's translation of the Matthew gospel represents an invaluable record of the Mercian dialect of Old English and is of particular interest to scholars as it was from this particular Midland dialect that Standard Modern English derives. An interesting example of this can be viewed in the Matthew gospel where the Mercian dialect gloss of the Pater Noster (Our Father) appears: Faeder ure, thu the in heofunum earth. Beo gehalgad thin noma. Cume to thin rice. Weorth thin willa, swa swa on heofune, swilce on eorthe. 
  As Rev. Irene Morrow commented the local interest and endeavours to obtain copies of the manuscript have been taking place for many years. She referred to the Rev. Samuel Hemphill, Rector of Birr who submitted an article on the manuscript to the Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy in January 1911 and noted that many Birr people were aware that 'as well as a Book of Durrow and a Book of Kells, there existed a 'Book of Birr.' 
  Local historian Margaret Hogan visited the Bodleian Library, Oxford in 1975 and made a close study of the manuscript. She purchased transparencies and gave several illustrated lectures both in Birr and in neighbouring towns over the years. The Earl of Rosse ordered a set of postcard reproductions that were on sale for a time at the Birr Castle Demesne shop. 
  Other attempts were made in the mid 1970s by Birr Vintage Week Committee who tried to get a copy of the Macregol Gospel Manuscript. The Committee at that time wanted to bring the original manuscript to Ireland to be photographed. Unfortunately the conditions set down for Oxford were not tenable. Amongst the conditions Oxford submitted that the manuscript be protected by the Irish Army around the clock and the Irish government would have to give an undertaking that the manuscript would not be damaged whilst in Ireland and would be returned within a period of three weeks. To meet this last demand in particular would have required very specialised equipment to ensure that the temperature and environment of the precious manuscript was maintained to exacting standards throughout transport and display. 
  Subsequently, however, interest continued to prevail and illustrated lectures were delivered in Birr during Heritage week in September, 2000, by local Macregol historian Margaret Hogan. Margaret explains in her book that it was during the course of one of these lectures that Teresa Ryan Feehan and her late husband, Mr Joe Feehan took a particular interest in the endeavour to obtain a complete copy of the Manuscript. 
  Teresa wrote to the Bodleian Library in Oxford initially requesting if herself and her husband could view the manuscript and sought permission to obtain a complete copy of the entire manuscript. Whilst discussing this possibility with Professor Barker-Benfield, Senior Assistant Librarian of the Bodleian Library, Oxford it became apparent that once certain conditions were met the document could be relatively easily copied. This was of course simplified through the enormous advancements in technology that had occurred. 
  Teresa reported back enthusiastically to Birr Historical Society that both herself and Joe had been to Oxford and that the Bodleian Library had welcomed a project for Birr to have a copy of the Macregol Gospels made for permanent location at Birr. In March 2001 Birr Historical Society formally accepted the offer of the Trustees of the Bodleian Library to have a one only exhibition copy of the Macregol gospels made for Birr, to be displayed to the public free of charge with copyright in all images retained by the Bodleian. 
  Last Wednesday evening at the Birr Library and Civic Offices, Birr Historical Society, officially handed over the CDs and Hard Drive which were the predominant information and technology used in the production of the facsimile. 
  The CDs were produced by the Bodleian Library in Oxford and were used to transfer the images from the original manuscript into the printing process by Brosna Press, Ferbane. The digitally photographed images taken at Oxford University were produced under the supervision of James Allan, Head of Imaging Services. The manuscript was previewed and the condition of the binding, vellum, text and illumination noted prior to digitization and shooting of the manuscript at high resolution. The process involved some delicate work including the use of a device called a Grazer which tightly bound the book and sucking back the pages to keep them flat for scanning.
 The Hard Drive work was executed by Diarmuid Guinan and contains the finished artwork from the manuscript with colour corrections etc. This information can be used by the library in order to display the images on a computer screen and through the addition of modern computer graphics the pages of the manuscript can now be shown  turning on the screen for all to peruse. This ensures that the original facsimile of the gospels isn't damaged through handling.
  Cllr Tony McLoughlin, who accepted the handing over of the facsimile on behalf of the County Council acknowledged all those associated with this very worthy undertaking. In particular he thanked Rev. Irene Morrow, President of the Birr Historical Society, and the project committee members. He also noted the work carried out by Diarmuid Guinan at Brosna press and the work carried out in the binding of the facsimile. 
  This work was carried out by professional bookbinder, Mr Tony Cains, who employed the use of the very old terracotta coloured leather binding of the Book of Armagh as a reference point. Cllr McLoughlin in particular highlighted the excellent book on the subject matter of the Macregol gospels produced by Margaret Hogan and also thanked on behalf of the council the efforts endeavours of Teresa Ryan and her late husband Joseph Feehan. 
  Cllr McLoughlin commented that, 'Offaly County Council is honoured to accept the facsimile of the Gospel Book of Macregol of Birr and undertakes to display this unique treasure for the benefit of all, free of charge.' He added that this manuscript represents a link to Ireland's extraordinary past and the rich heritage laid down by the early Christians. He concluded by stating that the Macregol gospels are a testament to the incredible richness of the early Irish monastic civilisation of Birr and an emblem of the greatness of ancient Ireland.  
  
     

13/12/2007
Ten Burglaries In Birr/Roscrea Area

Ten burglaries took place in Birr and Roscrea on Friday night last and the Gardaí believe that all ten burglaries were committed by the same group of travelling criminals.
  In all instances the break-ins occurred in domestic dwellings. In Birr one break-in occurred in Clonoghill where a sum of money was taken. 
  There were two crimes in Bengal Lodge and in one of these a small sum of money was taken from a female Old Age Pensioner.
  In Hillside two houses were illegally entered but nothing was taken from them.
  In Roscrea three houses in The Haven housing estate were illegally entered and two houses in the countryside outside the town. Small sums of money and a small quantity of jewellery were taken from these dwellings.
  One of the houses was badly ransacked with the criminals breaking eggs all over the rooms.
  Meanwhile Councillor Seán Doorley's business premises in Market Square, Birr was vandalised when its street window was smashed on Saturday night. Two men and one woman were subsequently apprehended by the Gardaí for this.

13/12/2007
Drink In Moderation And Avoid Drugs, Advises Birr Chairman

The best way to enjoy the Christmas period was to drink alcohol in moderation and to avoid drugs, commented the Chairman of Birr Town Council, Cllr Michael Loughnane, recently.
  Cllr Loughnane made his comments at the end of the December monthly meeting of the Council and he said there may be peer pressure on young people to try drugs such as hashish or cocaine, but he urged them to rise above such peer pressure and to avoid drugs.
  Drugs, he said, is a fool's game, a game which can have tragic consequences as we saw in the last week with the tragic death of model Katy French and the two young men from Waterford.
  By advising the public to drink moderately the Councillor was following the thinking of many wise men who advised that moderation or the path between extremes was the sensible option for any right-thinking person, with the extremes perhaps being alcoholism on the one hand and abstinent puritanism on the other.
  The Councillor also referred to Birr's heroin problem. Birr has a higher than average number of heroin users and many of them are on a methadone programme in Athlone. Heroin is sometimes associated with the working class but cocaine has become a middleclass, fashionable drug which is a worrying development.
  But of course most public order offences are directly linked to alcohol where people drink to excess and lose their self-control. If drinking is a pleasurable act then losing your self-control and engaging in violent, aggressive behaviour is the very opposite of what would be defined as pleasurable.
  Prior to his remarks about drink and drugs the Councillor thanked the other councillors and the Council staff for their emotional support during what was an extremely difficult year because of his father's death. He said that in losing his father he lost his best friend.
  Cllr Loughnane added that as Chairman he is doing the best job that he can. 'It is an honour being Chairman of Birr Town Council and I want to thank Cllr Seán Doorley for standing aside during the year and allowing me to adopt the Chairman's mantle. I have engaged with it to the best of my ability but obviously you cannot please everyone. I would like to also extend my gratitude to the Council staff for their courtesy, kindness and helpfulness.'
  He said that the Councillors and Council Executive have important decisions to make over the next few weeks.
  He congratulated the Birr Senior Hurling Team on winning the Leinster Championship recently and suggested that the Council host a joint Civic Reception for both the Birr team and the O'Donoghue family which broke a Guinness World Record during the Dublin Marathon in October.
  He added that everyone was disappointed to learn of the eight burglaries in Birr during recent weeks, adding that Birr had a below average number of burglaries per annum.
  Cllr Michael Campbell congratulated the Birr company 'Midland Web Printing' of Syngefield which recently won a National Print Award.
  They received their award during the 30th annual Irish Print Awards which was a black tie awards dinner attended by 350 guests at the Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin. The show was compered by Colm Murray of RTE and a total of 22 awards were handed out during the night. The provincial newspaper award was accepted by Arnold and James Fanning, general managers of Midland Web Printing, for the company's printing of The Clare Champion, which is one of a range of newspapers they produce.
  Cllr Campbell said a lot of printing work is being carried out in Midland Web Printing which is employing a large number of people.
  Cllr Noel Russell congratulated the Community School camogie team which recently lost the Leinster Final.
  Mary Gaughran, Town Clerk, told the councillors that it is proposed to raise the Development Contribution Scheme. This is an obligatory sum of money which every builder has to pay for each housing development. She said it is proposed to raise this obligatory payment to €9,500 per residential unit.
  A development contribution is payable on all relevant grants of planning permission and this money goes towards public infrastructure and facilities in the area.
  The Town Clerk added that in 2007 the Town Council spent wisely and has a surplus of monies left over.
  The Area Engineer said 97 per cent of the broadband ducting has now been laid in Birr. '35 per cent of our footpaths are now classified as being in good order as opposed to 26 per cent in 2006.'
  He said work will soon be completed on the Civic Amenity Site / Recycling Centre in Syngefield.

13/12/2007
John Molloy Enthralls Home Audience With Wonderful Concert

Birr has produced some very talented singers and musicians who have made their names on a wider stage in recent years and one of those returned to entertain home audiences last Friday night when John Molloy gave a wonderful concert at Birr Theatre & Arts Centre.
  A bass baritone, John is fast making a name for himself in the world of opera, and it is clear to see why when you hear him perform in concert like this. Friday night's repertoire included arias from Verdi and Bellini, a few well known Irish parlour songs and some of the best known numbers from Broadway musicals from the mid 20th century.
  A packed theatre showed their appreciation at the conclusion of two hours of a musical journey through operas and musicals of the 19th and 20th centuries.
  The evening was further enhanced by the performance of violinist Lynda O'Connor, whose solo work was a delight to observe. On piano for the evening was Mairead Hurley, who has been a regular visitor to Birr, accompanying John Molloy on his regular appearances in his home theatre.
  The programme for Friday night looked at two different eras in the history of music. Opera was very much to the fore in the 19th century while in the latter part of that century, the parlour songs become very popular in Ireland, while in Italy, their version of the parlour song was the Neapolitan Song, which were hugely enjoyed by the masses.
  In the 20th century, the broadway musical came to the fore and reigned for many years. The musical is still very popular today and many musical societies throughout the country still perform these for their annual productions each year.
  John Molloy covered all these formats of music in Friday night's performance, displaying his versatility and musical range.
  John has a commanding presence on stage when he is performing and he really gets into the role of the character who is singing. His facial expressions and movement on stage all add to the performance.
  He also builds up a good rapport with this audience and his chatty and informative links between numbers add to the enjoyment of the evening.
   Friday night's programme began with a serenade by Gounod from 'Faust' and the early part of the programme also included arias from Verdi and Bellini, including Vi Ravviso from 'La Sonnambula' and Vieni O Levita  . . . Tu sul labbro from 'Nabucco'.
  These were interspersed with violin solos by Lynda O'Connor. It was easy to see why Lynda has been described as 'Ireland's finest young virtuosic violinist'. She could almost make the violin come to life and her performance enraptured the audience. She displayed tremendous finger dexterity and great speed and control of the bow as she entertained with pieces such as Mascagni's 'Intermezzo', Caprice Basque for violin and piano, the theme from Schindler's List and Banjo & Fiddle by William Kroll. She certainly seemed to be enjoying herself as she performed and the audience definitely enjoyed her interpretation and performances of these pieces.
  The first half concluded with a selection of Irish parlour songs. The songs were all written by James Lynam Molloy, who was actually born in Offaly. John Molloy has been doing some research into his fellow county man and namesake and the British Library Museum has over 250 entries under the composers name. The 100th anniversary of the death of James Lynam Molloy occurs in 2009.
  An indication of how successful a composer James Lynam Molloy was can be gauged from the three songs that John sang, 'Love's Old Sweet Song', 'Bantry Bay' and 'The Kerry Dance', which are all very well known and popular numbers, which was proved by the audience who gladly joined in singing all three numbers.
  The second half began with a selection of Neapolitan Songs by Italian composer FP Tosti, including Marechiare, l'Ultima Canzone and La Serenata.
  In the latter part of the show John concentrated on songs from the musicals and again these were all familiar to the audience, who again gladly joined in. 'I Talk To The Trees' from Paint Your Wagon and 'Oh What A Beautiful Morning' from Oklahoma set the scene before John gave a tremendous interpretation of 'It I Were A Rich Man' from Fiddler On The Roof. He concluded with 'You'll Never Walk Alone' from Carousel - dedicated to the Birr hurlers - before returning for a rousing encore of 'O Sole Mio'.
  All three performers on the night performed superbly and it was a hugely enjoyable night. The home town audience certainly got their money's worth and they will be looking forward to seeing John Molloy return home again to perform in the not too distant future.

13/12/2007
Birr News Digest

The Chestnut Art Exhibition
  The Christmas Art exhibition in The Chestnut, Birr, this year is entitled 'Seen and Not Heard' by Sorcha O’Raghallaigh. The official opening is on this Friday December 14th at 7p.m. The Exhibition continues from Friday December 14th–Friday December 21st (3p.m.–closing).
  Seen and Not Heard is a continuation of Sorcha’s installation ‘It's a doll's life’ which was exhibited over the month of September (2007) in Circus store and gallery Dublin. 
  Using materials such as water colour, ink, spray paint, crayon, markers, stitching thread, fabric, beads and buttons, Sorcha captures fragments of her childhood and the whimsical side of being a girl. 

Guest Preacher
  St. Brendan's Church of Ireland Church in Birr will have a special guest preacher at the 11.30a.m. service of Holy Communion this Sunday, 16th December. He is the Rev. Paul Hoey, who is Ministry Consultant for CPAS (The Church Pastoral Aid Society). He is secretary of the Church of Ireland Council for Mission and Chair of the Church21 Parish Development programme. All are welcome.

Hedgerows & Out Of The Blu
  Hedgerows Craft, Gift & Design and Out Of The Blu, Main St, Birr, invite you to their pre-Christmas shopping evening on Friday December 14th from 6p.m. to 10p.m. Browse in a treasure trove of gifts whilst enjoying some seasonal cheer. 
  Open on Sundays December 16th and December 23rd from 2p.m. to 6p.m.(Advert).

St. Brendan's Community 
  St. Brendan's Community School invites all past singers and musicians to join them at 12 noon Mass on Christmas day. 

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo; The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The Jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 48 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Lots of side prizes on offer for Christmas including Turkeys, Hams, Sweets and Biscuits. Calling starts as usual at 8.30p.m. sharp. 
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize was won on 12 games by Pat Heenan and Stephen Lonergan. Three pairs had 11 games and shared runners up Pat Craven and Kieran Guinan, Kieran Daly and Elsie O'Halloran, Kieran Coughlan and Sonny Ryan. The last game went to Michael Carroll and Ray Horan while the table prize winners were Liam and Marguerite Shanahan. Raffle prizes went to Jack Maher, Teresa Bennett and Terri Keenaghan. Big Christmas game next Sunday night at 9p.m. sharp. 

Birr Town Lotto 
  Lotto numbers drawn in the Birr Town lotto this week were 25, 27, 23, 28 and bonus 12. No winner. Five lucky dips won €40 each. They were Fergal Mulrooney, c/o Franks, John Guinan, Newbridge St., Fossie Egan Bulfin Pk., James Hoctor, c/o P.J., Darren Nevin, Main St. Turkey - Maisie Keeley Clareen, Voucher - Maire Sullivan Annagh. 
  Next week's jackpot is €17,000 with €3,000 on the bonus. Draw is in Watkins pub. Grand Christmas draw next Monday night. Lots of prizes to be won so make sure you have your tickets. Thanks for your support. 

Highfield Utd FC Christmas Draw 
  Winners of prizes in the Highfield United lotto draw were Tracey Kinsella - Hennessy, Niamh Coughlan - Powers, Vivienne Maher - Smirnoff, Craig Courtney Jack - Tin Roses, Matthew King - Jameson, Ann O'Connor - Jacobs Afternoon tea, Stephen Pardy - Budweiser, Ian Casey - Baileys, Mick Halvey - Carmen Wine pack, Maura Byrne - Budweiser, Davina Dempsey - Hamper. Seller: prize John Pardy. 
  Lotto numbers drawn were 9, 23, 24, 27. No jackpot winner. One match three winner receives €150 - Pauline McGarry Snr, Seller Stella Hernon. Next week's draw is in the Sunrise Inn for a jackpot of €7,500. 

Chesterfield Community Close
  Chesterfield Community Close after school presents their Christmas show on Tuesday 18th December at 7.30p.m. The children will be showcasing their 'African Drumming' skills and spreading Christmas cheer through their Christmas carols. 

Birr Mart 
  Bullocks: 1 aa 680kgs €1,020, 1 lim 440kgs €740, 2 lim 780kgs €1,080, 1 sim 675kgs €1,025, 1 sim 505kgs €835, 4 her 370kgs €700, 1 aa 465kgs €720, 1 ch 545kgs €835, 4 aa 680kgs €965, 1 bb 760kgs €1,105. Heifers: 2 her 748kgs €1,070, 2 her 585kgs €890, 3 ch 547kgs €870, 1 lim 510kgs €945, 1 ch 425kgs €675, 3 ch 58kgs €910, 1 ch 630kgs €965, 1 ch 396kgs €630, 1 sim 405kgs €625, 3 aa 480kgs €680. Dry Cows: 1 ch 625kgs €620, 1 her 690kgs €685, 1 her 595kgs €615, 1 lim 660kgs €775. 
  Sheep sale: Thursday 6th December 2007. Lambs: €23 to €30 over a Kg. Cull Ewes: €25 to €49 per head. Forthcoming sales at Central Auctions Nenagh this Wednesday 12th December at 1p.m. are Dairy and Suckler sale. Birr, there will be a cattle sales as usual next Monday 17th December. Sheep sale as usual Thursday 20th December. 

Birr Apostolic Workers 
  The Birr Apostolic workers wish to thank everyone who supported their recent Christmas draw and also to thank SuperValu and Londis for use of Premises. They are greatful to sponsors and people who gave their time to help out. Winners: 1st prize - Billy Carroll Shinrone, 2nd Prize Hamper - Sally Nugent Green St., 3rd Prize Christmas Cake - Mrs Maeve Mooney 44 New Rd. Birr, 4th Prize Btl Whiskey - James Staunton Kilkenny, 5th Prize Candles and Holders - Liam O'Donoghue Ballingarry. 

Birr Historical Society
  A meeting will take place on Monday 17th December at 8p.m. in Dooly's Hotel. A lecture on Carols will be given. All are welcome. 

St. Pio Mass 
  St. Pio Mass takes place on Tuesday 18th December at 7.30p.m., Rosary 7.15p.m. 

Clareen ICA 
  The guild have their meetings at 8p.m. on Monday nights. They are doing Christmas Card making and the guild is also in progress at the moment. Three of the members attended the voting in the Burlington Hotel on Saturday 1st December. They will be arranging Christmas Dinner soon. If any new members are interested please ring Bridie at 91 31198 as soon as possible. 

Birr Scouts (Santa at the Log Cabin)
  The Annual Regional Orienteering event was held in the Slieve Bloom recently and was organised by Birr. The event which was run in the Log Cabin area was enjoyed by all and every unit in the region sent a team with Birr winning the senior event and Coolderry winning the Junior. 
  Last weekend nine scouts under the supervision of Mary Hayes and Padraig Connaughton attended the South East Conference in Mounty Mellary. The conference session included the new Youth programme, Youth Participation and the programme event for 2008. 
  Next weekend (December 15th/16th) the scouts are off to the Log Cabin to prepare and decorate it for Santa who is coming to the Cabin on Sunday next (16th December) at 2.30p.m. All cubs and their little friends are welcome as Santa has assured us that he will be there as Rudolf wants to meet his cousins in the mountains. He has asked us to provide a bed for himself and bale of straw for Rudolf as they will work their way around the Midlands from here on Christmas night. To help out Santa with his expenses we are holding a raffle at the Bingo session in the Marian Hall on next Friday night the 14th December. The Leaders wish to record their sincere thanks to the Marian Hall committee for their help and support over the past year. 
  Remember Santa will be in the Log Cabin on Sunday next at 3p.m. 

Birr Social Club 
  Teams Snooker Tournament in aid of the Birr Voluntary Nursing Unit sponsored by Buckleys Super-Valu Main St. Birr is continuing at Birr Social Club. 
  Results: on Tuesday night Bank of Ireland beat E. Nolans 4-1 and on Wednesday night Jim Cashens beat Gardai 3-2, Larry Broderick winning the vital game. Friday night's game between M. Nolans and P. Dunphy stands at two games each. M. Verney to play P. Dunphy in the decider on Friday next. 
  Sids v A. Sullivan will be played on Monday night and Derek Kelly v J. Dwyer will be played on Tuesday night. 
  Fixtures on Friday 14th Buckleys v S. Brown, Saturday 15th J. Ryland c/c v M. Parlon at 8.15p.m. The Committee and members would like to extend a vote of Sympathy to Maura Daly on the recent death of her brother Donal Beatty, Tullamore. 

Birr Methodist Church 
  The Annual Christmas sale is to be held on Friday 14th December 2007 in O'Connors shop, Main Street (By kind permission) from 10a.m. to 4p.m. There will be on sale Holly, Christmas decorations, cakes, jams and much more. Your support would be greatly appreciated. 

Camcor Bridge Club 
  Last week's Camcor Bridge Club results were as follows: 1st Nett - Aileen Watkins and Mary Byrne, Gross - Joe Kearns and Kieran Guinan, 2nd Nett - Michael Dolan and Michael Stephens. 

Christmas Trees
  Christmass trees, wreaths, candles and decorations at Wards Gardens Centre, Tullamore Rd., Birr. Tel: 9121215. 

Emporium At The Stables
  Emporium At The Stables, Oxmantown Mall, Birr December opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10a.m. to 6p.m. Sunday 16th and 23rd, 2p.m. to 6p.m. On Thursday December 13th and 20th, 'Ladies Retail Therapy Nights' 7p.m. to 10.30p.m. Christmas Eve opening 10a.m. to 5p.m. Tel (057) 9120263. (Advert).

Shinrone Social Dancing
  Shinrone Social Dancing Christmas Party Night on Saturday December 15th in Shinrone Community Centre. Dancing 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Music by Unity. Light refreshments. Prizes on door tickets. All welcome. This is the last dance before Christmas.

Thanks
  Many thanks to all who helped in so many ways to make the recent Kinnitty NS Parents Association table quiz a great success. Thanks to those who paid for a table and who who donated valuable prizes for the raffle, the committee are very grateful. A special thanks to Eamon Gath who gave a brand new stove.

Gem Hardware & Farm Supplies
  Gem Hardware & Farm Supplies, Cloghan (090) 6457112 - come on Friday December 14th and Saturday December 15th to our open days. Lots of special offers and free gifts. Demonstrations of Draper Power Tools for the DIY man of woman. Refreshments available for all. (Advert).

Geranne's Boutique
  Geranne's Boutique, Ferbane (090 6453815) is open seven days a week until Christmas. 15% discount for month of December. Louise Marlow, professional image consultant, will be in attendance on Sunday December 16th from 2p.m. onwards, plus makeover for customers every hour on the hour. Chocolates and wine served. (Advert).

Busy Bodies Christmas Play
  Busy Bodies Christmas play takes place in Carrig Hall on Sunday December 16th at 3p.m. All donations given at the door this year will be given to Ballinasloe Hospital Special Care Unit.
  If you want a laugh why not go along and support these little people in Carrig Hall on Sunday.

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. 
  For more details please phone Mary on (057) 9121912 or call in the office is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30a.m.-1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m.-1.00p.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
  The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone (057) 93 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. 

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)

13/12/2007
Birr Business People Speak Out On Budget Outcome At Local Event

Accountancy Firm, Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon, based in Birr, and Shannon Development co-hosted a Budget Briefing on Thursday last for local business people and clients in the Birr Technology Centre, where both companies are based. 
  Suzanne O’Neill, Partner in Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon spoke on how the budget affected business sections and Karen Sheehy Tax Senior, with Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon gave an overview of the income tax and stamp duty changes. The feedback received on the night was very positive and owing to its success, it is an event Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon would like to host annually for local business people.
  Speaking at the event, Jim Cashen, Broker/Owner of Remax Auctioneers in Birr had a positive reaction to the budget. 'I welcome the simplified stamp duty reform and feel it will kick start the stagnant property market and should boost buyers’ confidence that has suffered badly in the past 18 months. It will provide significant saving for non first time buyers purchasing 2nd hand homes,' he said. 'When you look at the overall reform packages with increases in mortgage interest relief, rent a room relief, tenant rent relief plus nine thousand new social housing units to be commenced or acquired in 2008, it can only mean a more positive outlook, with all buyers of property now paying less,' he added.
  Michael Gleeson, Gleeson Modern Homes, Birr broadly welcomed the outcome of the Budget and hopes it will have a positive affect on the economy.  'The introduction of tiered stamp duty rates will reduce the overall related costs for potential purchasers. That, together with an increase in mortgage interest relief may kick start the sale of residential property again. However, it will probably take at least six months before we see the results of these measures,' he said.
 Also in attendance at the event was Mr. Michael Kennedy of Michael Kennedy Motors Limited, Birr. 'I consider the change in VRT rates to be sensible and will generally have a positive impact. I expect the sales for bio-fuel, diesel and hybrids to increase as the VRT will decrease on these vehicles, consequently, the sales of both the larger petrol and large diesel vehicles will be hard hit as the VRT and extra road tax will increase on these,' he said. 
  However, he believes that the increase on road tax is unnecessary, as it is already expensive compared to the UK. Speaking about this increase, he added 'the likes of MPV’s should have been exempt from the increase, as these vehicles are purchased to accommodate families who need seven seaters in order to carry a large family instead of having an extra car and thus extra emissions. The changes in VRT will not take effect until the 1st of July 2008 and the road tax increase from the 1st of February 2008. So if your road tax in due for renewal soon, try and tax it for 12 months to avoid the increase.'
  Bank of Ireland has strongly welcomed the move on stamp duty by the Minister for Finance. The Bank is of the view that this change will be a strong support to prospective buyers of new and second hand houses. Seamus Pierce, Manager, Bank of Ireland Birr said: 'Bank of Ireland welcome this news from the Minister as the simplified stamp duty structure will help to re-establish customer confidence which will in turn generate a positive impact on the housing market overall. The strong economic forces that underpin the market are also still in place, including economic, population and employment growth and favourable demographics. We also welcome the Minister’s move on the provision of 5,500 new affordable homes, where Bank of Ireland is a leading provider of finance to get customers on the housing ladder.'

13/12/2007
Birr Chamber Of Commerce Aim To Improve Christmas Lights

It was an aim of Birr Chamber of Commerce to extend and improve the Christmas lighting but this wouldn't be possible this year as the current electricity system wasn't able to cope with such an expansion, Chamber President, Nigel Craughwell, stated at their monthly meeting. What was needed was an improved electricity system.
  Greg Smith, Treasurer, commented that Roscrea had upgraded their ESB system about a year ago, and that the Chamber was going to be pushing hard to get Birr upgraded.
  The official switching on of the lights took place last Saturday in Emmet Square. It featured choral singing, Santa Claus & his elves (who moved through the crowd distributing sweets to children). 
  He said that once again the Chamber is looking for monetary donations towards the Christmas lights and this year there has been a swifter response by sponsors to this cause.
  The Chamber will be holding a church gate collection on December 22nd and 23rd which will have Birr's Christmas Lights as its theme and the monies gleaned from this collection will go towards upgrading the lights.
  Mr Craughwell commented that the Birr Booklet will soon be going to print and will be published by the time of the next Chamber meeting in January. He said the Minister for Finance will be launching this booklet. A previous booklet was published two years ago and 800 copies were printed. On this occasion 10,000 copies will be printed. 
  It will be in A4 format, will be glossy and will deal with business, tourism and hospitality matters relating to Birr.
  He added that the creation of a CCTV system in Birr will also be discussed during the Chamber's January meeting.
  Cllr Sean Doorley said he has asked for a meeting with the Director of Services regarding improving the signage in Birr.
  The President said there are problems with the current installation of broadband which is having a negative effect on some businesses, but of course the town needs broadband.
  However, the President added, it would be inappropriate for this work to be ongoing during the Christmas period.
  He also mentioned once again the dangerous zebra crossing at the junction of Emmet Square and Emmet Street.
  Cllr Michael Loughnane commented that this zebra crossing 'is a bit like Seffin in that if there was an easy solution to it it would have been done long ago.'
   The opening hours for the festive season were also discussed and it was agreed that shopowners would be opening on the three Sundays prior to Christmas beginning from last Sunday. Many shops will be open in Birr every day from the 9th of December until the end of Christmas Eve.
  Gary Smith addressed the meeting about Birrnet which he has been working on for the last year. He said that 12 months ago the site had lost its vitality but he has revamped it and it is now generating revenue. Last November there were 1800 visitors to the site many of them seeking news from The Midland Tribune section of the site.
  He commented that the site has much potential and plenty of space for advertising, and the advertising rates are competitive. 'If any advertiser wishes to change their advert then they can email me and I will change it within a couple of days.'
  He said that some derogatory remarks had been posted on the site but he was refereeing this practice now.
  The President pointed out that some derogatory remarks had also been made on the Birrnet signs around town.
  He added that a few years ago a successful Shopping Bonanza was held in Birr and the Chamber was proposing to run this again, probably some time in March.
  Cllr Loughnane said it was disappointing that the attendance at Chamber meetings is fairly small, usually between 15 and 20 people, a problem that existed when he was President. He suggested texting reminders to people about an hour before the meeting.
  Paul Barber complimented the Chamber executive on the good work that it is doing.

13/12/2007
Birr Review Magazine 2007 Launched

Each year more and more people eagerly await their copy of The Birr Review to catch up on all the news and events and happenings in its pages. 
  Over the past number of years The Birr Review has built up a loyal following at home and among Birr people abroad. This year's issue is just now in the shops and as usual it is packed with lots of interesting articles as well as the regular reports from clubs and organisations.
  Among the items concerning the activities of Birr people in other countries are reports on the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in Spain, the Special Olympics in Shanghi, the Niall Mellon Building Project in South Africa, Sr. Gabrielle Kearns in Brazil and Lorcan Kenny in Uganda. There's even a great account of life in a war-torn Iraq by Dickie Donnelly.
  All the churches are featured and there's a fine historical piece on John Wesley and his frequent visits to Birr. There are lovely articles on life in Birr in the past. Did you know that Birr had its own Banbh market and that three Victoria Cross winners came from our town or that one of its railway lines was actually stolen?
  All schools in the area are featured as well as many local characters and their activities. There are loads of photographs including a full-coloured double page spread covering all the weddings of Birr people during the year. On a sadder note the obituary page is a unique reminder of the much-loved members of our families and our friends who have sadly passed away since last year.
  There is simply too much in the Birr Review to summarise in one short piece. The best thing to go out and buy one immediately. A copy costs just €10 and it will make an ideal stocking filler for Christmas. There is only a single print run and all the copies on sale are usually sold out very quickly, so hurry. Birr people abroad will simply love it so don't waste any time in getting it into the post. All proceeds go to Birr Lions club for their many charities.    
  The Magazine is available in the shops now.      

13/12/2007
Birr Church of Ireland Christmas Services

The 2007 Christmas Services for the Birr Church of Ireland Group of Parishes are as follows:

Wednesday, 19th December
* Oxmantown School Nativity Play, Birr, 7.00p.m.

Sunday, 23rd December, Advent 4 
* Holy Communion, Lockeen, 9.30a.m.; Morning Prayer, Lorrha, 10.00a.m.; Morning Prayer, Birr, 11.30a.m.
* Ecumenical Carol Service, Birr, 7.30p.m.

Monday, 24th December, Christmas Eve
* Christmas Pageant & Family Communion, Lockeen, 7.00p.m.
* Holy Communion, Birr, 11.30p.m.

Tuesday, 25th December, Christmas Day 
* Holy Communion, Dorrha, 9.30a.m.; Lorrha, 10.00a.m.; Birr, 11.30a.m.

Sunday, 30th December, 1st Sunday of Christmas
* Service of the Word & Carols, Birr, 11.30a.m.

Tuesday, 1st January, The Naming of Christ 
* Holy Communion, Birr, 11.30a.m.

13/12/2007
News From St. Brendan’s CS

Parent-Teacher Meeting
  On Tuesday last the 3rd Year Parent-teacher meetings took place after school. There was an exceptional turn out of parents on the occasion and a great sharing of information was facilitated.

Parents’ Meeting
  Tony O’Carroll spoke to parents of the school last Monday evening on the topic of ‘The Facts each parent needs to know about drugs’. The large attendance were most impressed by his presentation and left with a greater knowledge on the realities of modern Ireland. Tony also spoke to year groups of students regarding the abuse of drink and drugs in today’s society. His undoubted communication skills clearly got an important message across to his teenage audiences.

Defibrillator
  Following the recent sudden death syndrome tragedies among secondary students and young sports people, the students of St. Brendan’s took the initiative on Friday December 7th of having an optional non uniform day. The proceeds of the event will go towards a defibrillator for the school.

Retreat
  The highly popular and spiritually rewarding 1st Year retreat, facilitated by Leaving Cert. students will take place on Friday next.

Talent Show
  The Student Council are organising our fourth annual ‘Talent Show’, which will bring the current term to an end. Auditions are taking place during lunch-time and judges are surprised by the extraordinary range of talent that is coming to the surface again this year.

Remembrance Service
  A well attended Service of Remembrance for deceased relatives took place in St. Brendan’s Oratory at lunch-time last Tuesday.

Lunch-time Activities
  The usual lunch-time activities for 1st year students are progressing as normal. All tastes are catered for ranging from table-quizzes, to guitar lessons and soccer leagues. Well done to the senior students who give freely of their own time to lead these activities in such a professional manner.

Commiserations
  Commiserations to St. Brendan’s senior camogie players recently defeated in the Leinster B Final. They were a true sporting side, who played with courage and determination. 

13/12/2007
Novel Youth Concert At Birr Theatre

A novel concert of Irish traditional music will take place in the Birr Theatre and Arts Centre on Saturday 26th January. On that evening the Comhaltas Youth Groups from Offaly and Tipperary will join forces to jointly present a programme of traditional music song and dance.
  The Offaly group, 'Mol an Oige', led by James Hogan from Killeigh has been performing for a number of years and were the driving force behind the youth events at Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann in Tullamore which drew much praise from all who attended. The Tipperary Group, led by Tadhg Maher and Claire Quinn was formed over two years ago and they too were very much involved in the All Ireland Fleadh.
  The groups will have had a joint workshop during the day and will take the stage at 8p.m. Further details will be announced in due course but booking as usual will be at the Theatre Booking Office (057) 91 22911.

13/12/2007
Birr Camogie Notes

Birr Camogie Club held their AGM last Thursday night and had a poor turnout on last year's numbers. 
  The following officers were elected: chairperson - Mary Rigney; vice-chairperson - Mick Hough; secretary - Caroline McCarthy; joint treasurers - Carmel Carroll and Frances Teehan; PRO - Caroline McCarthy and Shauna Walsh; delegate to County Board - Pat Ryan; President - Camillus King; committee - Gail Spain, Deirdre Cahill, Michelle O'Gorman, Patrick Hoctor, Des Ryan, Maria Ryan.
  Well done to Birr Scor dancers who qualified for the Leinster Final in set dancing and figure dancing last weekend.

13/12/2007
Golfing In The Glenns

Christmas Vouchers
  Looking for ideas for a Christmas gift? Why not consider a Birr Golf Club Subscription Voucher for your family or friends?  Please call Joan Grimes at (057) 912 0082.
New Members
 At the recent AGM the Management Committee proposed that as an incentive to encourage new members that the entry fee be reduced to €500 for a full member and €800 for family membership for the months of December, January and February only. This proposal will be reviewed on an annual basis.
Santa 
  Santa will pay his annual visit to the Club on Tuesday December 18th at 6p.m. His visit is now a long established tradition and has been an important date in the social events of the Club. Annette Kenny and her House Committee look forward to welcoming all to see Santa.
For Your Diary
  Monday December 10th to Sunday December 16th; 14h Hamper sponsored by John and Gail Kelly, Green St. Also 14h Turkeys. 
  Sunday: Ladies. 9h Turkey Draws for 9.30a.m. to 10.00a.m. and 12.30p.m. to 2.00p.m. Draw for partners on Wednesday at 5p.m.
  Wednesday December 12th; 10.30a.m. Seniors. Christmas Dinner at 6p.m. 
  Tuesday December 18th; 10.30a.m. Bridge in Clubhouse. Members and their friends most welcome. 
  Sunday December 23rd; 5p.m. Presentation of Christmas Hampers and Turkeys. 
Results
  14h Hamper sponsored by Brian Whelahan. 1st Dave Brown 31 pts. 2nd Fintan Dolan (12) 30pts. Gross: Joe Lyons (+1) 27 pts. 3rd Michael Lyons (7) 29 pts. 
  14h Turkey. Sean Cooney, David Browne 31 pts. James Maher 30 pts. 
Seniors. 1st Joe Hynes, Colman Loughnane, Martin Hynes 35 nett. 2nd Michael Stephens, Paul Walshe, John Lynch, Brian Guinan 35 nett.
Ladies 
  9h Turkey. 1st Jo Conniffe 4 up. 2nd Margaret Murphy and Mary Bolger (all flat)
  Bridge, 1st John and Roma Gilmartin. 2nd Mary O’Gorman and Peg Monaghan.
1st Phonsie and Maura Kerrigan, 2nd Kevin Delaney and Phyllis Landy.

6/12/2007
Mundy To Officially Switch On Birr Lights

The Christmas lights in Birr will be officially switched on by local music star Mundy on Saturday evening next.
  Although the Christmas lights in the town were turned on last Friday, the Chamber of Commerce has arranged this official 'switch on' for Saturday evening next in Emmet Square at 5p.m. and they hope to make a big event of the whole occasion.
  A local group of singers, better known as 'Encore', are going to sing Christmas Carols both before and after the official switch on. Santa Claus will also be making an appearance and some of his elves will be handing out sweets and goodies to all present.
  The Chamber of Commerce are obtaining on loan an old switch from the Museum at Birr Castle Demesne, which Mundy will use to switch on the lights.
  Once the lights are switched on there is a concert in the Courtyard of Birr Castle. ‘Christmas in the Courtyard’ is proudly hosted by Mid Ireland Tourism in conjunction with Birr Castle Demesne. The event will kick off at 6.00p.m. in the Courtyard at Birr Castle Demesne, just after the Christmas lights are turned on in Birr Square at 5.00p.m. Tickets are €10 for adults and €5 for children, which include the concert entertainment from ‘Encore,’ a mince pie and choice of mulled wine or juice. 
  Tickets may be purchased in advance by contacting Mid Ireland Tourism at (057) 91 20923, or on the night at the Birr Castle Demesne visitor’s entrance. 
  December 8th was always regarded as the traditional start of the Christmas season and Birr Chamber of Commerce are hoping that Saturday's event will provide a fitting start to the build up to Christmas in the town. Everyone is welcome to come along to Emmet Square at 5p.m. to join in the fun and get into the Christmas spirit.

6/12/2007
Driest Autumn In Birr Since 1933

Autumn 2007 was the driest Autumn for more than 20 years generally but it was the driest at Birr since 1933, according to figures released this week by Met Eireann.
  A temperature of minus 8.7 degrees Celsius was also recorded at Birr on November 23rd, the lowest grass minimum temperature during the Autumn months.
  Like the previous two Autumn months, most of November's weather was dominated by areas of high pressure close to or over Ireland, giving mainly dry conditions with light winds.
  There were also short spells of wet and windy weather around mid-month and also during the last few days, while overall it was a cloudy month, especially in the north and east.
  Mean air temperatures for the month of between 8 degrees celsius and 11 degrees celsius were around two degrees higher than normal generally and close to three degrees above normal in places.
  It was the warmest November for between five and 13 years generally and the warmest on record at Belmullet, where observations commenced in 1956.
  There were two or three air frosts recorded during the month at most inland stations, but none in coastal areas.
  Rainfall totals were below normal almost everywhere, with only between 50 per cent and 75 per cent of average amounts at many stations. Little rain was measured in most places between the 1st and 16th and again between the 20th and 27th, but there were some heavy falls at other times. The wettest days of the month were in the period 17th / 18th.
  The number of wetdays (days with 1mm or more rainfall) during the month was well below normal for November; only between 9 and 12 wetdays were recorded generally, compared with the normal range of between 13 and 20. 
  Sunshine totals for the month were very variable across the country. While Cork Airport measured 12 per cent more sunshine than normal, Malin Head's total of only 15 hours represented just 33 per cent of normal and was its lowest November total since sunshine measurements began there in 1915.
  The lowest grass minimum temperature during the month was minus 8.7 degrees Celsius and was recorded at Birr on the 23rd.
  When looking at September, October and November as a whole, Met Eireann remarked that it was the driest Autumn for more than 20 years generally and the driest at Birr since 1933. At stations in County Mayo it was the warmest autumn on record, but at most other stations it was not quite as warm as the autumn of 2006. Each of the Autumn months was warmer than the 1961-1990 normal. September and October were sunny months but November was dull, particularly in the north. Almost all stations recorded their sunniest days of the season during the first week of September.

6/12/2007
Birr Tidy Towns AGM

There was a very small attendance at the Annual General Meeting of Birr Tidy Towns held on the 19th November last.  Chairperson Denis Sheils was very disappointed with the small attendance.
  In his address to members at the meeting he highlighted some of the key points of the year. One of these was acquiring third place in the Cherished Places County Competition and also the local competition for the best front garden, estate, shop front, at which there was a very large attendance at an enjoyable night.
  He thanked the Birr Credit Union for their sponsorship of the local competition and thanked Birr Town Council for all their assistance during the year. He thanked the volunteers who assisted. Rita Frawley, Honorary Secretary highlighted the hard work of the Birr Tidy Town groups for all the work that was carried on the weekly work nights. Paul Barber, Treasurer relayed that the finances of the group were in a healthy state.
  The three outgoing officers informed those present that they were not seeking re-election. The following officers were elected Chairman - Tony McLoughlin, Joint Secretaries Mary McHugh and Judy O'Neill; Treasurer - John Hoare.
Committee - Maureen Frawley, Rita Frawley, Paul Barber, Denis Sheils, Mary Lawlor.  
  The new Chairman outlined his programme for 2008. It continues with the five year plan, with a special water feature going into the Mill Island.  dded to that to upgrade the green areas at Bridge Street areas, and to work with the various groups who had a similar interest with the group. He would also be looking for sponsorship to carry out the five year plan. He paid tribute to the outgoing officers for all their work during the year particularly the Church Gate collection. He thanked Paul for his twenty years of helping to promote Birr.  

6/12/2007
John Molloy Performs At Birr Theatre & Arts Centre

This Friday evening Birr Theatre & Arts Centre plays host to John Molloy bass, Lynda O Connor violin and Mairead Hurley piano, for a one-off performance of 19th and 20th Century Music. 
  John will perform opera arias by Verdi, Bellini and Gounod; songs by Paolo Tosti and the Offaly born composer, James Lynam Molloy and a selection of popular show tunes. 
  Lynda O Connor will play a selection of popular violin pieces including the haunting Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana by Mascagni, Monti's riveting Czardas and Kroll's humorous Banjo & Fiddle. 
  John Molloy is fast establishing a reputation for his versatile singing voice in repertoire from the early baroque through to the present day and his charismatic stage presentation. His future engagements include performances of Handel's Messiah, conducted by Prionnsias O Duinn, next week at the National Concert Hall, Dublin (sold out!), Haydn's Creation in The Hague and his first Verdi Requiem in Manchester with Stockport Symphony Orchestra.
  Along with Lynda O'Connor, Ireland's finest young virtuosic violinist and the indefatigable Mairead Hurley at the piano, this is an evening not to be missed. Tickets are available at the theatre box-office, (057) 9122911.

6/12/2007
Birr News Digest

Annual St Vincent De Paul Collection
  The annual St Vincent de Paul Church Gate Collection will take place on Saturday December 8th and Sunday December 9th. Other contributions will be gratefully received and receipted.

Wilmer Tennis Club
  The annual Christmas Tournament was held at the Wilmer Tennis Club on Saturday night last. It proved to be a most enjoyable occasion. The clubhouse was beautifully decorated and certainly created the right Christmas atmosphere. A little tennis was played but mainly members enjoyed the festive fare in the clubhouse and a great night was had by all. Two Santa Clauses even turned up to enhance the occasion!! Thanks to everyone who helped organise the night, decorate the clubhouse and who came along on the night. It was a great way to round off what has been a very good year at the club. Merry Christmas everybody.

Book Club
  The next Book Club meeting will be held on Monday, 10th December. The book for this month is 'The Pursuit Of Love' by Nancy Mitford (chosen by Olwyn). New members welcome. Enquiries to (057) 91 39028.  

Emporium At The Stables
  Emporium At The Stables, Oxmantown Mall, Birr December opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 10a.m. to 6p.m. Sunday December 9th, 16th and 23rd, 2p.m. to 6p.m. On Thursday December 6th, 13th and 20th 'Ladies Retail Therapy Nights' 7p.m. to 10.30p.m. Christmas Eve opening 10a.m. to 5p.m. Tel (057) 9120263. (Advert).

Eglish/Rath Parish Sale Of Work
  The Eglish/Rath Parish Sale of Work will take place on Friday December 7th in the Community Centre after Vigil Mass at 7.30p.m. The sale will include lots of home baking, jams, preservatives, etc, wheel of fortune, farm produce and they will also auction hay, silage, timber and gravel. Your support would be most welcome. All proceeds go to parish funds.

Lorrha Variety Group
  Lorrha Variety Group present three nights of entertainment, drama and music in Lorrha Community Hall on Thursday December 6th (including pupils of Lorrha and Redwood NS), Friday December 7th and Saturday December 8th at 8p.m. Doors open at 7.30p.m. Admission: adults €10, Senior Citizens and students €6.

Social Dancing
  Social dancing in Rath on Thursday night December 6th. Music by Cupla. There will be a full programme of of dances over the Christmas and new year season.

'Rockin' All Over The World'
  The Sarah Molloy School of Speech And Drama will present their annual show entitled 'Rockin' All Over The World' in the Marian Hall, Birr on Saturday December 8th at 8.30p.m. and Sunday December 9th at 4p.m.

Carrig and Riverstown Ladies Group 
  Carrig and Riverstown Ladies Group will hold their next meeting on Monday December 10th at 8p.m. As we are on the count down to Christmas. This will be a very informal meeting. They will have some lively chat and one or two party games and of course the obligatory mince pie. Everyone are welcome. 

CRK Active Retired Group
  Carrig Riverstown Killeen Active Retired Group now have application forms for security grants for older people in the Carrig area. The grant covers monitored alarms, security lights, smoke alarms, window and door locks. Interior emergency lights. As the closing date is the end of December will anyone requiring any of the items please get in touch within the next week. 

Marian Hall Notes
  Bingo;  The jackpot on Friday night last was not won. The jackpot this Friday night is €3,000 on 48 calls with a top game of €300 if not won. Lots of Christmas sideprizes on offer. Calling 8.30p.m. 
  Progressive 25 Drive; Top prize on Sunday night was shared by three pairs, Anne and Mai Hough, Tony and Mary Larkin, Dan Foley and Stephen Lonergan on 11 games. The table prize went to Maura Guilfoyle and Freda Tierney, while the table prize was won by Mary and Michael Morgan. Raffle prize winners Liam Shanahan Terri Kinahan and Dan Foley. Cards continue on Sunday night with a jackpot of €100 on 14 games. 9p.m. sharp. 

Birr Town Soccer Lotto 
  The numbers drawn in the Birr Town FC lotto were 9, 16, 23, 25 and bonus was 15. No winner of Jackpot. Ten people matched three numbers and receive €20 each. They were Theresa Bergin, Clareen, Kay Mannion, Lorrha, Frank McDermott, Camon, c/o E. Pardy, Theresa Frawley, Terry Flanagan, D. Kelly, c/o Willie, Declan Ganley, Meadowville, Annie Noonan, c/o P.J., Derek Ryan, c/o Willie. Turkey - Peader O'Meara, Voucher - Gail Spain. Thanks for your support. Next week's draw is in Nolans. 

Birr Social Club 
  Teams Snooker Tournament in aid of the Birr voluntary nursing unit (Sponsored by Buckleys Super-Valu Main St. Birr) is continuing at Birr Social Club. Last week's results: on Monday night John Dwyers beat Tony Macs 3-2. On Wednesday night Kennos beat Sunrise Inn 4-1, Friday nights match between Buckleys and Steve Brown was put back due to hurling commitments. Saturday night Mick Parlon's beat Richie Donnelly's 4-1. 
  This week's fixtures: Wednesday December 5th Gardai v Jim Cashen, Thursday December 6th E. Sullivans v Sids, Friday December 7th M. Nolans v P. Dunphy, Saturday December 8th Kelly v J. Dwyer. 
  Congratulations to Brian, Pat Joe and Birr Senior hurlers on winning another Leinster club final on Sunday last. 

Birr Mart 
  Bullocks: 4 ch 449kgs €790, 3 ch 460kgs €810, 1 aa 770kgs €1,090, 1 lim 680kgs €1,080, 2 ch 568kgs €920, 1 sim 655kgs €1,015, 1 ch 780kgs €1,170, 1 sim 825kgs €1,070, 1 ch 435kgs €775, 3 ch 502kgs €810. Heifers: 1 lim 465kgs €740, 1 her 525kgs €755, 2 aa 503kgs €745,s 2ch 513kgs €780, 1 ch 575kgs €930, 4 ch 296kgs €520, 3 ch 477kgs €735, 1 ch 540kgs €810, 1 ch 595kgs €885, 5 her 649kgs €935. 
  Sheep sale Thursday 29th November 2007. Lambs: €24 to €30 over the Kg. Cull Ewes: €26 to €50 per head. 
  Forthcoming sales at Central Auctions: Roscrea this Friday 7th December - clearance sale of 20 suckler cows for Mr John Hoolan Cloneganna Dunkerrin at 12 noon. 
  Nenagh - Dairy and Suckler sale next Wednesday 12th December at 1p.m. including clearance sale of 30 suckler cows for Mrs Rita Gleeson, Ballycormack, Moneygall. 

Christmas Trees
  Christmass trees, wreaths, candles and decorations at Wards Gardens Centre, Tullamore Rd., Birr. Tel: 9121215. 

Shoe B Doo 
 Due to the success of our 2006 Christmas customer evening, Shoe B Doo would like to welcome our customers to our 2007 Christmas Customer evening on Wednesday December 12th from 7p.m.-9p.m. Discounts and refreshments on the night. See you there. 

Birr Mentally Handicapped Association 
  Please support the annual flag day in aid of Birr mentally handicapped association on Friday next, December 7th. 

Highfield Utd FC 
  Numbers drawn in the Highfield United lotto this week were 12, 13, 20, 21. No jackpot winner. No match three winner. Five names drawn each receive €30 each. They were Aoife Cotter, c/o Seller, Cian and Amanda, c/o K. Nolan, Mrs Mgt Hanlon, c/o J. Hayes, Jim Roberts, c/o G. Carroll, John Pardy, c/o seller. Turkey: Karen Cotter, c/o D. Colter, Ham: Frank Coughlan, c/o Cherry Tree. Next week's draw is in the Sunrise Inn. Jackpot €7,400. 

Camcor Bridge Club 
  Results from Camcor Bridge Club last week were as follows:  First nett Theresa Kelly and Michael Stephens, Gross Ann Hough and Eddie Nolan, 2nd nett Freda Tierney and Sadie Leonard.  

Shinrone Social Dancing
  Shinrone Social Dancing on Saturday December 15th. Dancing 9.30p.m. to 12.30a.m. Music by Unity. Light refreshements. Prizes on door tickets. All welcome. This is the last dance before Christmas.

Geranne's Boutique
  Geranne's Boutique, Ferbane (090 6453815) is open seven days a week until Christmas. 15% discount for month of December. Louise Marlow, professional image consultant, will be in attendance on Sundays December 9th and 16th from 2p.m. onwards, plus makeover for customers every hour on the hour. Chocolates and wine served. (Advert).

Gem Hardware & Farm Supplies
  Gem Hardware & Farm Supplies, Cloghan (090) 6457112 - come on Friday December 14th and Saturday December 15th to our open days. Lots of special offers and free gifts. Demonstrations of Draper Power Tools for the DIY man of woman. Refreshments available for all. (Advert).

Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
  Galloglass Theatre company present Danti-Dan, a play by Gina Moxley on Thursday 6th December. Gallowglass promises a timely production of a proven play that will engage and delight both regular theatregoers and teenage audiences.
  Birr’s John Molloy (bass baritone) will be joined by guests Lynda O’Connor (violin) and Mairead Hurley (piano) on Friday 7th December. 
  Tallisman Theatre Company present Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer on Monday 10th and Tuesday 11th December. The three shows each morning at 9.55a.m., 11.15a.m. and 12.35p.m. are heavily booked. 
  Film Club on Tuesday 11th December will view the French film, Orchestra Seats.
  Box Office open Monday–Friday 1p.m.-5.30p.m. (057) 9122911 or see www.birrtheatre.com for full details.
 
Art: Not Just for Girls!
  Tin Jug Studio in Birr will be running an introductory art class for adults on Wednesday, 12th December, 7.30p.m.-9.30p.m. This is to give beginners and intermediaries a chance to try drawing and painting with artist and teacher Jennie Boelens, in the cosy and encouraging atmosphere of the studio. Bookings are being taken for evening classes and daytime art workshops to start in the New Year. For bookings and information, please ring Rosalind: (057) 91 21818/(087) 668 1783.

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. 
The next adult craft evening will be December 11th at 7p.m.-9p.m. The topic this month is Working with Acetate. Cost €10 materials and refreshments will be supplied. For more details please phone Mary on (057) 9121912 or call in the office is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30a.m.-1.30p.m. and Friday 9.30a.m.-1.00p.m.

Ballyegan Garden Club
  Trip to O’Meara’s Garden Centre Mullingar – all those travelling this Saturday, 8th December please note bus leaves at 10.00 a.m. from Ballyegan Hall, and will be back before 7 p.m. Please phone (087) 638 0516 with queries.
  Next meeting is Wednesday, 12th December at 8.00 p.m. in Ballyegan Hall. Petals Flowers, Roscrea will give a workshop in the preparation of arrangements, table centrepieces and swags for Christmas. Hands-on activity for the night. Materials including oasis and flowers will be available to purchase on the night, although if you wish to bring materials to use a nominal fee will be charged.  Alternatively, a standard fee will be charged to cover the cost of the workshop. Mulled wine and snacks for a fun seasonal evening.  Members & non-members welcome.  

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
  The Offaly Cancer Support Group is based at Teach Dóchas, Offaly St., Tullamore. They offer support to people living with cancer and their families and carers. Opening hours: Monday to Friday 10a.m to 2p.m. Telephone (057) 93 28268 email: dochasoffaly@eircom.net. 

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)

6/12/2007
Birr Comhaltas Reviews Successful Year

The members of the Birr Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann held their AGM in the County Arms Hotel on Wednesday last.  All the reports before the meeting indicated a very busy and satisfactory year.
  Amongst the highlights covered by Donal Morrissey in his Secretary's report were the Internatonal set dancing festival held in June and the visit of the Echoes of Erin concert group to the Birr Theatre and Arts Centre in October. The set dancing festival has gone from strength to strength and is now one of the country's major dancing events.
  For many members the highlight of the year is the Annual Christmas/New Year session in the County Arms Hotel. This year's event, which will take place on January 2nd, has been extended to include an awards night.
  Attracting less attention but perhaps the most important work of the organisation is the teaching of traditional music and this is done very effeciently by Olivia Douglas at the weekly Monday night class in the Marian Hall. It is still a source of disappointment that this excellent facility is not being availed of by more parents in the area.
  Set dancing classes are conducted by Donal Morrissey each Thursday evening also in the Marian Hall. The members also expressed appreciation of the exposure given to traditional Irish music on the Midlands 103 programme 'Coppers & Brass.'  This programme is now broadcast worldwide on the internet and can be accessed on www.midlands103.com.  It is suggested that local people include this information with their Christmas greeting to friends and relatives overseas to enable them to keep in touch with local activities.
  Treasurer Mary Darcy as usual kept the finances in order and the list of income and expenditure indicated the range of activities undertaken by the branch. On the positive side all events showed a profit. Warm tributes were paid to Donal and Mary for their work and efficiency over the year.
  Public relations officer Padraig O'Dufaigh in his report thanked the local media, particularly the Midland Tribune for the vast amount of coverage given to comhaltas activities. 'We are the envy of our colleagues in other parts,' he said.  He also thanked the management and staff of the County Arms Hotel for all their facilities and the committee of the Marian Hall. Padraig also pointed out that 2008 would be a significant year for the branch as it would mark their 50th year of active participation in the work of comhaltas.
  All the outgoing officers were re-elected. They were as follows Chairman - Jim Kinsella; Vice-Chairman - Tom Douglas; Secretary - Donal Morrissey; Treasurer - Mary Darcy; Auditor - Helena Spain; PRO - Paddy Duffy; Youth Officer - Olivia Douglas; Delegates - Donal Morrissey and Mary Darcy.
  Sympathy was extended to all who had suffered bereavements during the year.
  A special meeting will be held in mid January to plan activities for the coming year. 

6/12/2007
Budget 2008 Briefing In Birr Technology Centre

Shannon Development are hosting a budget briefing on Thursday evening, December 6th at 5p.m. in Birr Technology Centre to provide local businesses and entrepreneurs with an overview of Budget 2008 and its impact on Irish businesses. 
  As part this Budget 2008 business briefing, Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon will give an extensive overview of how the Budget will affect businesses and the self-employed. Baker Tilly Ryan Glennon are a leading accountancy firm with offices in Dublin, Belfast and at Birr Technology Centre. They are part of Baker Tilly International, one of the top ten global accountancy and advisory firms. 
  'This networking event provides an overview of the Minister of Finance's decisions in relation to the Budget for the coming year, and how these decisions will affect tax rates in relation to income tax, corporation tax, VAT, pensions and other issues affecting small and medium businesses generally,' according to Denis Duggan, Regional Development Executive with Shannon Development. 
  For those interested in attending, please contact Denis or Verona at Birr Technology Centre on (057) 9124000 or email duggand@shannondev.ie . Spaces are limited and booking is essential. 

6/12/2007
Birr Withstand Second Half Ballyboden Rally To Win Record Seventh Title

By John O'Callaghan

AIB Leinster Club Senior Hurling Final: Birr 1-11 Ballyboden St Enda's 0-13

Birr had to call on all their experience and craft to withstand a wind assisted Ballyboden onslaught in the second half to claim a record seventh Leinster Club Senior Hurling title after a dramatic final played at O'Connor Park, Tullamore on Sunday last.
  Birr had built up a nine point lead when they were backed by the wind in the first half but as Ballyboden whittled away their advantage in the second half Birr's dreams of glory looked to be slipping away. But they kept their heads and grabbed two vital points in quick succession to steady the ship and then they held on valiantly in the closing minutes.
  It was a real rearguard action from Birr in the second half but they stood up and were counted when it mattered and they did just about enough to hold on for victory by the minimum margin. 
  This victory puts Birr on top of the Leinster Roll of Honour with seven titles, one ahead of Rathnure, and for captain Brian Whelahan it gives him the unique distinction of being the only player to have been part of all seven victories.
  By beating Dublin representatives in the final, it means they have also beaten clubs from the four main hurling counties in Leinster in provincial finals following victories over Kilkenny, Wexford and Laois clubs in previous finals, and they are the only club in the province to have done that.
  It was heart stopping stuff in Sunday's final and for stages of the second half it looked like Birr might not hold on. Ballyboden had the bit between their teeth but when it came down to it at the death they weren't able to reel Birr fully in and the Offaly men celebrated another success.
  Birr had got off to a great start and were four points up after eight minutes. However they weren't making the wind advantage pay and they failed to score for the next 11 minutes by which time Ballyboden cut their lead to just two points. But Birr finished the half strongly, spurred on by a Paul O'Meara goal, set up by Brian Whelahan, and they scored 1-4 in a seven minute spell to go in leading by 1-9 to 0-3 at the break.
  A nine point lead might sound like a big advantage but considering the strength of the wind it certainly wasn't insurmountable. The consensus at half time was that Birr would be able to pick off enough scores against the wind to keep their noses in front.
  However Ballyboden came out and fired over three points in the first four minutes to serve notice that they meant business. Before the midway point of the half the lead was down to just a goal and Birr still hadn't scored in the half. Ballyboden were on top and it looked like just a matter of time before they would hit the front.
  Two further points by the 22nd minute had the lead down to the minimum as they struck eight points without reply and Birr were hanging on. Then after 23 minutes Birr finally broke their duck for the half and quickly followed up with another and the gap was a goal again. That broke Ballyboden's momentum for a few minutes and gave Birr renewed life. Ballyboden picked off two more points to get it down to the minimum again but time ran out on them and Birr were champions for the seventh time since 1991.
  It was a great day for Birr and they cemented their reputation as one of the top clubs in the game. Having lost last year's final by a big margin to Ballyhale it was a big ask to come back again this year and reach another provincial final but not only did they do that but they regained the title they last won in 2002.
  The conditions on Sunday were reminiscent of that day in 2002 when Birr defeated Young Irelands. Wind and rain made it very difficult for both sides with the wind blowing down the field from the road goal at O'Connor Park. The strength of it could be judged from the puck outs. In the first half Brian Mullins was landing them around the opposition 20m line while in the second half they stuggled to make his own 65m line.
  That meant that the wind was going to dictate the play and having won the toss Ballyboden opted to play against the elements in the first half. When they only trailed by 0-4 to 0-2 early in the second quarter they must have thought they had made the right decision but Birr's strong finish to the half put a different perspective on the scoreboard and left them with a bigger job to do after the break.
  They set about that task in impressive fashion and picked off their points well from out the field. They knew they had the time to get the lead down by just taking their points and they didn't try to go for goals. Indeed they didn't really create any goalscoring opportunity over the hour and that is a credit to the Birr defence as well. Ballyboden took their points from out the field but when they did try to get near the Birr goals their way was blocked by a resolute defence.
  Ballyboden's best chance of a goal was probably from a 20m free with five minutes left. Birr had just scored two points to go a goal up again when a free was moved to a central position following dissent. David Curtin could have gone for goal but he was instructed to take his point as Ballyboden felt they still had time to get the necessary scores. As it was they only managed one other point from a free and came up a point short at the final whistle.
  Birr got the only goal of the game and they also created a couple of other chances that weren't taken. In the very first minute Simon Whelahan pulled on a breaking ball that flew inches wide. Keith Hehir had a kicked effort from close range diverted out for a '65' while minutes later from a long Brian Mullins puck out Stephen Brown's first time pull from an angle was well saved by Gary Maguire.
  The crucial goal, which ultimately decided the game, came in the 25th minute when good Birr pressure resulted in Keith Hehir sending Brian Whelahan away. He closed in on goals before popping a pass across to Paul O'Meara and he batted the ball to the net. 
  Had Birr lost they probably would have rued a few missed chances from frees. Brian Whelahan was off target from a '65' and a close range free from a difficult angle in the first half and then in the second half he failed to rise a ball properly and his effort went along the ground. That came at a crucial time as Ballyboden had just started the half well with three quick points and a Birr score would have meant a lot to halt their early momentum but as it was it took them 23 minutes to get their first score of the half by which time their nine point lead had been cut to just one.
  Both sides dropped players back when facing the wind. Conal Keaney drifted back for Ballyboden in the first half but Birr detailed Michael Verney to follow him and Keaney actually gave away one point by passing the ball directly to a Birr man.
  In the second half, particularly towards the end, Brian Whelahan and Simon Whelahan, both dropped back, as they had done against Ballyhale, and they did great work in helping out the defence, which was under a lot of pressure. It did mean Birr were short of bodies up front when the ball did go upfield and it came back at them quickly again.
  Considering the difficult both sides were pretty economical with possession with Birr recording eight wides and Ballyboden just five. The Dublin men were awarded 13 frees over the hour with just five awarded to Birr.
  Once again the Birr defence did a terrific job. Brian Mullins kept another clean sheet in goals while John Paul O'Meara, Michael Verney and Brian Watkins all played very well in a strong defensive unit. 
  Rory Hanniffy had a terrific first half at midfield and he and Barry Whelahan did well overall in the middle of the field. In attack Paul O'Meara emerged as the hero on this occasion with a great tally of 1-4, while Brian Whelahan, Gary Hanniffy and Simon Whelahan also contributed enormously to their success.
  Ballyboden were bidding to become the first Dublin club since Crumlin in 1979 to win a Leinster title and they will be very disappointed to have gone so close and come up just short. Gary Maguire made a couple of very important saves while in defence Stephen Perkins, Daragh Spain and Malachy Travers were very much to the fore.
  David Sweeney made an impression when he switched to midfield for the second half while in attack Emmet Carroll, Simon Lambert and sub Shane Durkin did well. Conal Keaney won some good ball in the air but in general was well marshalled.
  Birr almost made the perfect start when good pressure by Paul O'Meara and Keith Hehir in the first minute led to the ball running loose and Simon Whelahan pulled first time and the ball went just outside the post. The same player did open the scoring for Birr after four minutes after collecting a crossfield pass from Gary Hanniffy and pointing from 50m.
  After good play by Paul O'Meara, Brian Whelahan was fouled and he took the free himself to add Birr's second point. Then Keith Hehir caught a high ball from Gary Hanniffy but he was closed down as he came in from a tight angle on the right and his kicked effort went out for a '65' which Brian Whelahan pointed. Gary Hanniffy then set Rory Hanniffy away on a run and he finished with another point and Birr were 0-4 to 0-0 in front after eight minutes.
  It was a great start for Birr but they didn't build on it. From a long Brian Mullins puck out the ball broke inside the 13m line on the right and Stephen Brown pulled first time but Gary Maguire saved at the expense of a '65' but this time Brian Whelahan was off target.
  Ballyboden got their first point after 12 minutes when David Sweeney linked with Emmet Carroll and his dipping shot was touched over the bar by Brian Mullins. They added a second point after 16 minutes when David Curtin pointed a free from 50m after Paul Ryan had been fouled. Birr had a chance of an immediate reply when Simon Whelahan was tripped but Brian Whelahan's free from near the right sideline went across the goals and wide.
  Birr had gone 11 minutes without a score before Paul O'Meara lofted a high ball over the bar from the right after 19 minutes. Four minutes later Sean Ryan, just on as a sub, closed on goals before passing to Paul O'Meara and he shot over.
  Birr kept on the pressure and when Michael Verney sent a high ball goalwards, it broke for Keith Hehir, who quickly transferred to Brian Whelahan. He closed in on goals before passing across to Paul O'Meara and he batted the ball into the net. 
  Birr had their tails up and Barry Whelahan's pass sent Rory Hanniffy away and he scored a good point from out the field. Conal Keaney then gave the ball away and Paul O'Meara availed of the chance to shoot another point. Shane Durkin pulled a point back from a difficult angle late in the half but Birr responded again and when Brian Kennedy slipped trying to clear the ball went straight to Barry Whelahan and he put it over the bar to give Birr a 1-9 to 0-3 interval advantage.
  Ballyboden rejigged their team at half time bringing David Sweeney and Simon Lambert to midfield and it was Lambert who got them off to a flying start to the half with a point after 17 seconds after good work by Emmet Carroll and Shane Durkin. A minute later Emmet Carroll took a pass from David Sweeney and pointed and then David Curtin pointed a 66m free and the gap had been cut to six points after just four minutes.
  Brian Whelahan then mishit a his free low and Paul O'Meara was off target with another effort as Birr missed opportunities. David Curtin pointed another free after seven minutes and five minutes later added another from his own 65m line. When Stephen Hiney and tim Sweeney linked up to set up Shane Durkin for another point it was 1-9 to 0-9 thirteen minutes into the half. 
  It stayed that way for seven minutes as Birr tried to halt the Ballyboden momentum. Then Conal Keaney pointed from the right wing and two minutes later David Curtin sent the ball to Enda Kinsella, who made a good catch before pointing, and the gap was down to a single point with eight minutes left.
  Birr were struggling to hold on but after initial work by Michael Dwane and Paul O'Meara, Brian Whelahan sent a low cross to Simon Whelahan and he sent over Birr's first point of the half after 23 minutes. Less than a minute later Niall Claffey fed Gary Hanniffy and his delivery found Michael Dwane, who passed to Paul O'Meara and he slotted over another point as Birr steadied the ship.
  Ballyboden came back and David Curtin elected to take his point from a 20m free with five minutes left. A minute later Conal Keaney looked to have got away but Dylan Hayden made a great hook as he tried to shoot and the danger was cleared. The Birr defence defended stoutly as Ballyboden piled on the pressure. With the 30 minutes just up David Curtin pointed another free from inside his own 65m line and the gap was down to a point again.
  Ballyboden pressed but in the final seconds David Sweeney's sideline cut from about 65m out was just to the left to the posts and with in went Ballyboden's last chance. Birr held on and were crowned champions for the seventh time.
  BIRR: Brian Mullins; John Paul O'Meara, Niall Claffey, Michael Verney; Brian Watkins, Paul Cleary, Dylan Hayden; Barry Whelahan (0-1), Rory Hanniffy (0-2); Gary Hanniffy, Brian Whelahan (0-2, 0-1 free, 0-1 '65'), Simon Whelahan (0-2); Stephen Brown, Paul O'Meara (1-4), Keith Hehir. Subs. Sean Ryan (for Stephen Brown, 22 mins), Michael Dwane for (Keith Hehir, 46 mins).
  BALLYBODEN ST ENDA'S: Gary Maguire; Cathal Ryan, Stephen Perkins, Daragh Spain; Malachy Travers, Tim Sweeney, Stephen Hiney; David Curtin (0-6, all frees), Brian Kennedy; David Sweeney, Enda Kinsella (0-1), Simon Lambert (0-1); Paul Ryan, Conal Keaney (0-1), Emmet Carroll (0-2). Subs. Shane Durkin (0-2) (for Emmet Carroll, inj., 13 mins), Emmet Carroll (for Brian Kennedy, half time), Michael Griffin (for Enda Kinsella, 54 mins), James Doody (for Paul Ryan, 60 mins).
  REFEREE: Anthony Stapleton (Laois).

6/12/2007
Birr Captain Relieved To Hear Final Whistle

'My instant reaction is relief, total relief,' Birr captain Brian Whelahan said after leading his side to a record seventh Leinster title with a one point victory over Ballyboden St Enda's at O'Connor Park, Tullamore.
  In a career that has seen him named on the Team of the Millennium, win two All-Ireland titles with his county, four with his club, win 11 Offaly senior hurling medals, Brian Whelahan now has another unique distinction as he is the only player to have won seven Leinster Club medals - a great record. 
  Brian captained Birr to their first Leinster title in 1991 when they defeated Ballyhale Shamrocks and now 16 years later he has repeated that feat but whereas that first title was won by a big margin, Sunday's was by the minimum and Birr were delighted to hear the final whistle.
  'I defintely thought it was gone,' he said. 'I missed the free and we probably had a chance to get a point or two, so when we didn't get them I thought this is not going to be for us. Simon's point and Paul O'Meara's point straight away together gave us a little cushion again and a goal at that stage was always going to be hard to come by. The backs had pulled together a little bit tighter and it was going to be points but fair play to Ballyboden, they brought it back down to the minimum again.'
  'When the referee turned to Simon and said it's over, it was just huge relief. I am delighted for the lads in there who trained really, really hard. It has been a year that I thought we would never have come back after last year's defeat. We knuckled down to it and when we came out of Offaly, and some people might say we were lucky to come out of Offaly, but when we did, we trained really hard again and eventually it has worked out for us,' the Birr captain said.
  'We are under no illusions. Today is a great day for Birr and I hope it is a great day for Offaly as well. I hope it shows other clubs and especially the county players in Offaly that with a lot of hard work and a little bit of luck, we'll be back competitive again. 
  'We are facing into the new year against our old rivals Dunloy and wherever that is going to be played, I know it is going to be a ding dong battle as well. I am sure Gary O'Kane and his boys were down looking at this match and they fear nothing coming out of Leinster and that will be the case,' Brian added.
  Looking back at the decisive goal in the game, Brian recalled that 'Keith Hehir got it and I ran off him and he popped it out to me. I was going to tap it over the bar but I saw there was no one in front of me but I sensed I think it was Timmy Sweeney on my back and I think at that stage Stephen Perkins had come across so I said I would flick it across and thankfully for a change the ball went into the back of the net.'
  'I was delighted for Paul O'Meara today because he answered a lot of critics. He came off with 1-4 and I am delighted for him. It has been a tough year for Paul and he has had a lot of knockers but I think he proved today that he is well worth his place,' Brian said.
  Brian said the significance of the victory hadn't hit him yet. 'It hasn't sunk in yet but I think we are the only ones with seven now. Tonight when we go back and sit down and have our meal and tomorrow morning it will really sink in but for the moment, huge, huge relief, that is all I can say. When they had the lead knocked down to a point with 10 minutes to go I just said to myself it's not looking good but we just managed to get on a few balls and worked the ball up the field and thankfully, we got two points and we held on, basically we held on and that is it,' he said.
  Asked what another All-Ireland would mean at this stage he replied 'I wouldn't even think of an All-Ireland at this stage. I don't think there is a team left in the championship that could think of an all-Ireland other than maybe Portumna. Portumna are probably the strongest team left in the championship. They showed in their own Galway championship that they are very hungry. they look to be the class act at the moment. Loughmore will go and rattle the cage against Portumna and I'm sure it will be a ding dong battle but I am sure anyone that is left in it will be eyeing Portumna as the top team left. We have Dunloy and Dunloy  in a semi-final are very hard beaten. They have huge scalps to their name and they will be looking to add Birr to it in February,' the record maker said.

6/12/2007
One Point Win The Nicest Win Of All

'One point is the nicest win of all, very sweet,' said Birr manager Pat Joe Whelahan after his side's 1-11 to 0-13 victory over Ballyboden St Enda's in the Leinster Final at O'Connor Park, Tullamore on Sunday last.
  'We’re one hour away from St Patrick’s Day, one hour and that is going to drive us.' he said as he looked forward to a semi-final meeting with Dunloy in the Spring.
  The Birr manager has seen and done it all before but his enthusiasm never wanes and his delight was clear for all to see after Sunday's narrow victory.
  Sunday's win was far from playing sailing and the Birr manager admitted that they were worried in the second half when Ballyboden came back at them and Birr were struggling to get scores.
  'I thought after playing with the wind in the first half we still had a chance at half time, but when Brian missed the free after half time we were worried. They (Ballyboden) are a very fit team, they are a good team with some great hurlers but we finished well and fair play to the boys.
  'We trained hard for this and we are in good shape and we wanted to win it and get back into training on St Stephen’s Day and we’re in Clones the next day and the bandwagon is back on the road again,' Pat Joe said.
  It was pointed out that Birr went 23 minutes before scoring in the second half and he replied: 'I know there was a strong breeze out there and it’s not that easy when the ball is being pucked down on top of your own full back line, but I knew they wouldn’t score a goal with Mullins in the goals, he was well warned before the game and the back line covered good.
  'Everyone picked up their men and followed them no matter where they went and the bit of ground hurling helped as well. This win is great for Offaly hurling,' he added.
  Pat Joe returned as Birr manager after a two year gap this year and he said 'I knew there was something in this team. There are great hurlers in Birr and great young lads. The last two years in Birr I was worried about it, things weren’t going well and I came back to straighten them out.
  'The most important championship we won this year was the Intermediate and it keeps all those young lads at play and keeps them happy and that championship was so important for us to win, it brought all the young lads back.
  'Ballyboden are a good team. They have some great hurlers, Keaney, Hiney, boys from Dublin and lads from Wexford. They are a very strong team. Look at Birr they are very young. The oldest man on our half back line today was Dylan Hayden and he's just 22 years of age. It is great. I think it's great. One point is the nicest win of all, very sweet.,' he said.
 Selector Billy Mullins added ' young Watkins had a great game, as did Rory Hanniffy. I thought when Brian missed that free it was curtains, but we held strong there at the end. It is great for Brian Whelahan, captain after 20 years playing. It is fantastic for him and all the lads.'

6/12/2007
Birr's New Full Back Caps A Great Year With Another Leinster Title

Niall Claffey have been one of the revelations of Birr's march to Offaly and Leinster titles over the last couple of months. 
  He has always been one of Birr's most consistent players but for the Offaly quarter final against Tullamore he was given a new role at full back and he has quickly adapted to the position and has given some great performances since.
  Playing at full back, he was in the thick of the action when Ballyboden launched their second half comeback.
  'It was tough going in the second half. We didn't think we would go as bad as we did in the second half. Their physical size came out on top. We got ourselves in trouble. We didn't do much ground hurling and that got us in trouble in the second half,' he said.
  'I wasn't too worried when they got a good start to the second half because I said we still have it but then as the game went on and it came down to two points I thought we are not going to win this. Then I heard Brian Mullins ask the umpire how long was left and he said three minutes and I couldn't believe it as I thought there were about 10 minutes left. When I heard that it kept us going toward the end,' he added.
  'I would like to meet them on a calm day to see what they are like and what we are like as it is difficult on a day like today to know what teams are like because is is a game of two halves. They came a lot stronger at us in the second half that we did. The goal made a difference. Goals win games and we were lucky to get the goal,' the full back said.
  Niall said they didn't think that a nine point lead at half time was enough. 'We were kind of wary of it. You might think being nine points up is great but you have to see the other side of it and if you lose, people say you're after throwing away a nine point lead so you are under pressure either way and you can't be too relaxed going out.'
  Birr went a long time in the second half without scoring. 'They were getting on top and we weren't scoring. We weren't even getting the ball down the field. When we did get it down there, it was coming out a bit quick but once or twice if did go in we held it up. We got the goal and Simon missed one in the first half and in the second half we missed another chance but they had no chances. We can't complain too much.'
  'In the first half they was no ball coming in around the square. We were on top but in the second half I suppose my man got two balls and he did very well and Dylan helped me out one time when he hooked him but a lot of the play was out the field. The play was around our half backline and midfield so it was a strange game in that way,' he said.
  Niall won his first Leinster medal 10 years ago and he said he didn't think that ten years later he would be adding another to his collection. 'It is grand to be back. It is a great achievement for the rest of the lads. I am not the only one. Barry Whelahan is there and Brian Mullins, Gary was there in 1995, Simon was there so there are a good few lads there 10 or 12 years. It shows the commitment the boys do show. It is a fair achievement for anyone who is there from 10 years ago, but look at Brian. It is a huge committment. We were in college back then but we are all working now. It's getting tougher every year, it doesn't get any easier so it is a fair achievement,' Niall added.
  'We meet Dunloy now and we never got it too handy against them. It is a new team going up. The last time we met them it was a settled team. We met them twice, in a semi-final and a final, so it was the same bunch of players so you are confident back then but now it is a new team. We beat them three times and drew with them and people will say you should win again but it is a new team so you can't really say you beat them before,' he pointed out.
  Referring to his move to full back during this year's campaign, Niall said it is a change. 'When you play wing back you probably enjoy it more because you understand it a bit more but at full back you have to know when to go in and when to stand off. I am taking it game by game. Against Tullamore I was very green to it but hopefully I have improved since then,' he said.

6/12/2007
Loreto Show Experience To Claim Leinster 'B' Camogie Title

Leinster Camogie Senior 'B' Final; Loreto, Wexford 5-12 St. Brendan's CS, Birr 2-4

St. Brendan's Community School senior camogie team suffered defeat against a strong Loreto school side from Wexford in the Leinster Senior 'B' Camogie final at Dr. Cullen Park, Carlow on Saturday last.
  It turned out to be a disappoining outcome for the St. Brendan's team who came up against a more stronger and experienced team from Wexford on the day. St. Brendan's reached the All-Ireland 'C' camogie final earlier this year, and went up to the 'B' grade after that, so to make it into the Leinster final at the higher grade at the first attempt is a great achievement.  Loreto turned out to be formidable opposition on the day in a match played in very cold and blustery conditions.
  Loreto set out their stall in the early stages and put the St. Brendan's backs under a great deal of pressure making different chances for their players. They had some key players in their team, and one of those was Katrina Parrock who caused a lot of problems for the Birr backline and hit the majority of her team's scores including three goals before the end. She could have been nicknamed 'Hurricane Katrina' as her efforts on goal were often relentless for her team.  
  St. Brendan's found the net for two goals in the second half sent scored by Emma Dunne and Ann Cordial. St.  Brendan's fell behind in the first half and when Loreto began to get scores on the board St. Brendan's had to try and play camogie to get back into the match. 
  Loreto found the net with five goals overall, four of those netted in the first half.  The goals were a key factor and didn't give Birr enough of a chance to turn matters around. St. Brendan's rallied on a few occasions and full forward Bebhinn Kennedy hit two points as captain Aoife Corrigan scored a point and Michelle Gleeson was on target also. St. Brendan's came close and perhaps should have scored a goal in the first half but were denied by the Loreto defence who just about cleared their lines.  
  When Birr scored their goals in the second half it cut Loreto's lead but they still had a bit more to do to try and catch up with them. Loreto though looked determined and were able to find scores at the other end to keep their lead intact.  
  Loreto began well in the early stages with a goal and a point scored by Katrina Parrock. St. Brendan's hit their first point with an effort by captain Aoife Corrigan. It was followed with a point by full forward Behinn Kennedy to make it 1-1 to 0-2. Loreto went three points ahead before St. Brendan's went close with a chance at the other end.  
  Loreto then got in for a second goal when Laura Rowe passed to Katrina Parrock who sent a fortunate enough shot to the net. It gave them a boost at a right time and managed to add to their tally soon after. The St. Brendan's defence came under a lot of pressure from the experienced Wexford forwards and scored a third goal when Lisa Bolger finished to the net.  
  St. Brendan's hit a point from a '65' by Michelle Gleeson but the Loreto girls enjoyed a good spell in the half. Behinn Kennedy struck a point for Birr again then Loreto ended the half the stronger with a fourth goal scored by their dangerous player Katrina Parrock to lead at the interval by 4-6 to 0-4.
  St. Brendan's scored their first goal eight minutes into the second half when Emma  Dunne sent her shot to the