Jane Crowley and Holly Rose Twomey from Youghal have been best friends for many years.   Jane, daughter of Margaret and Eoin, Copperally and Holly Rose, daughter of Michael and Catherine, Ardrath Park, are both thirteen years old and 1st year students in Pobalscoil na Tríonóide, Youghal. Denise FitzGerald Reports | Photo: Youghalonline.com

When the local radio station, C.R.Y. recently looked for volunteers to help with their extended on air-hours, the girls decided it would be fun and applied.  Speaking with the East Cork Journal, Holly and Jane told of how they met with Declan Gibbons, Station Manager, who discovered that the girls were top notchers on all the latest movie releases, gig reviews, music charts and magazines styles.   Declan gave them the opportunity to produce a pre-recorded show, and then another, before giving the go ahead to the girls for a live radio show as, Declan said, ‘they have a natural on-air chemistry’.

Tuesday, March 30th last was the fantastic debut of The janeholly Show when the girls plugged into the 104 frequency and let it fly.   Their 30 minute show covered a range of topics, including all the above, and also gave details of events in the town, school news and sport.    Such was the success of the show that their phones were inundated with calls, texts arrived at a hundred a minute, and there were many calls to the Station itself.

Chatting with the East Cork Journal, the girls told of how their parents were delighted with their involvement with CRY, and how their many friends contacted them with ideas for future broadcasts, ideas about what else could be covered (and sometimes HOW it should be done!).   As their show is all about what they themselves are interested in, it had a light, enthusiastic and enjoyable element which was picked up by all listeners.

Jane and Holly were loud in their praise of two more friends, Clare Keniry and Isha Savage, who worked very hard behind the scenes answering the phone and taking notes of the many requests and questions being submitted.

“It was great”, the friends enthused, “and we are working on future programmes together which will be bigger and better as time goes on.  We are delighted we had the courage to apply, and intend to present a great half hour each week.   We are hoping our show will encourage more young people to tune into CRY”.   Confidence, indeed, from two thirteen year old budding radio presenters.

You can give the girls a call on 024 91199  or text on 087 2544745 for any requests or suggestions, and you can be sure they “will give it Holly – or perhaps that should be

“give it janeholly!”

Check out the CRY facebook page entitled CRY Youghal where you can listen online while you chat to your friends, or of course on www.youghalradio.com or www.youghalonline.com

YOUGHAL TOWN COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 2010

Due to ongoing industrial action being undertaken by the council executive, Youghal Town Council’s April meeting was diverted from Monday night to 10am Tuesday morning. By Christy Parker

Votes of Congratulations:

Cllr Mary Linehan Foley congratulated 12 year-old Adam Curley of Fitzgerald’s Terrace on winning a gold medal in the all-Ireland boxing championships in Santry, Dublin last weekend.

Cllr Eoin Coyne paid tribute to David O’Callaghan in lieu of the Irish U-20 rugby team’s recent six-nation side triumph. “He played in every match,” noted the councillor “and is a credit to his town and family.”

Town Foreman’s report:

Cllr Michelle Hennessy said there were “bags and bags” of rubbish near the Lighthouse (diving board), containing items such as cans and bottles that “are above the water line” and need removing. Also the picnic area by the pitch and putt club is suffering overflowing bins, she said, while Claycastle beach and the New Line were similarly rubbish strewn. “There are two pillows on the side of the road at the New Line for about two months,” she noted. Mayor Sandra McLellan reminded that the New Line and Claycastle occupy Cork County Council’s domain.

Other items to which Cllr Hennessy drew attention were, the pothole at the bottom of Windmill Hill, a collapsed yield sign at the end of the Spa Hill, an incomplete footpath on Raheen Road and breaking tar at the entrance to Seaview.

Graveyard drinking

The councillor then referred to the ongoing problem of illegal and underage drinking in the graveyard and associated anti-social and criminal behaviour. She asked if lights could be installed in the area. “I know it may only move the problem on but at least it might stop the vandalism in there,” she ventured. Town Clerk Liam Ryan said the new Intoxicating Liquor bye laws had seen five fines issued in the past weeks in relation to offences in the graveyard. Interestingly, he observed, neither of the recipients had been underage or Youghal residents. He said due process was being followed and that, where appropriate, miscreants will be named in such cases. As regards lighting he would, on foot of a council proposal, investigate the costs, etc. prior to installing it. However, he stressed, “it is a social issue” and parents have to accept responsibility for what their children do.”

Mayor McLellan suggested CCTV might also be installed.

Cllr Barbara Murray said the poles supporting the town’s finger pointing signs were susceptible to being turned and so signs were misdirecting. She also called for more poop bins on the main walking areas.

Cllr Linehan Foley repeated the concerns over the drinking situation in the cemetery and other areas. She said the main protagonists ‘are known” and wondered if their parents should be approached by the gardai. Cllr Michael Beecher said gardai were sometimes abused by parents of children who are brought home intoxicated and that offenders should be “put out of the town.”

Cllr Linehan Foley asked that an engineer seek a solution for traffic dangers on the Copperally road exiting onto the Quarry Road where visibility was obstructed. She congratulated the council workers for the new blue and white flags on the town’s heritage buildings.

Housing

The councillor asked when the new houses at Seafeld were being allocated and sought a general overview on council housing availability and character in Youghal. The town clerk said 24 houses, largely two-bed and one of which pertains to special needs- will be allocated in about four to six weeks time.  He described the condition of the housing list as having been very good by comparison to other jurisdictions but that the council’s success had brought an increased demand from people arriving from other areas.

Cllr Murray suggested that council residents in two-storey, three-bedroom houses might downscale to smaller accommodation. Mr. Ryan said such applications do arise and, all being well, are duly considered. Somewhat unexpectedly, the prime demand for council houses is from two people, or two-bedroom applicants. He elaborated that the umber of families on the housing list is “quite small” with an estimated breakdown of 50-60% two person, 30% single personas and the balance in families. “The fact we have housed a lot of three-bedroom applicants/families in the past accounts in part for this,” he added.

Cllr Liam Burke said gravel and sand needed removing from the promenade, fencing at the railway station needed re-instating by Irish Rail and potholes and road surface at Ballyclamsy needed urgent remedial work, as indeed does Kilcoran Road.

Spotlights, slob, sluice, sign and Ashe Street

Cllr Michael Beecher repeated the need for action on underage/illegal drinking and anti-social behaviour in the graveyard and also in areas such as the Slob Bank and Indian Point. He too favoured spotlights, in all such areas if need be. He claimed parents were dropping children off at the Slob in some instances. The councillor also criticised illegal dumping and hoped the new CCTV initiative would catch offenders. Cllr Beecher also asked that the sleepers at the entrances to he promenade be removed, the developer be required to provide manholes at Parkland as water is lodging in rear gardens and a concrete bollard at Dominic Collins Place be stabilised.

Cllr Coyne said the sluice gates at the Slob weren’t closing properly, though he was reminded it was a county council matter. He asked that the gates at the town hall be opened to the public during the day, especially in summertime. Cllr Linehan Foley said they were closed because of vandalism at night in previous times. Cllr Coyne suggested re-landscaping at the front entrance to Sweetfield Estate and an entrance sign repaired. Litter from Dun Chorain to the Pobalscoil Trionoide needed removing, he concluded. The town clerk said all such issues would be considered but staff had been reduced from 20 to 13 since 2008. Town Manager Patricia Power said finances had also been considerably reduced.

Mayor McLellan noted that the Greens Quay area needed resurfacing and rubbish cleared. She said a wall in Ashe Street was about to collapse and Mr. Ryan said a ‘dangerous structure’ notice had been issued to the owner last week.

County Council Items:

Cllr Murray asked the town engineer Paul Murray that a ‘plan of work’ invoking gone hour on Friday evening and one hour on Monday morning be applied to cleaning up Claycastle beach. She stressed the area was “absolutely disgusting” at presence and that, it being one of Youghal’s prime tourist attractions, it cannot be allowed to reflect so bad an impression on visitors. She said flexibility was essential to ensure this. She said bins were pointless and better taken away with a cleaning regime and anti-litter signs preferable. ‘The Town Council have always been better on this matter and the County Council is letting us down very badly,” she stated.

The councillor then said that gravel needed to be removed from the front strand car park and, given one private individual had taken some of it last week, perhaps others might also wish to do likewise. She next alluded to the Slob Bank drains backing up, due to the sluice gate malfunctioning.

Roads and footpaths

Cllr Linehan Foley concurred with Cllr Murray’s views on the Claycastle. Her next concern was that “a major hole in the centre of the road” at Watson’s corner be repaired, where an elderly man nearly came to grief recently. The councillor asked for news on reducing the “massive footpath” at Dr. Kennedy’s Place, which motorists were continually mounting and damaging given the narrowness of the road. The town engineer said he would re-examine it. In reply to Cllr Linehan Foley, he also informed that plans to address the illegal parking that was causing loss of vision to exiting motorists at Quarryvale are currently being considered at County Hall. He would also provide a copy of any decisions to the councillor for residents to consider.

The town clerk interceded that the issue of Youghal’s main and back street roads were the responsibility of Cork County Council. He advocated that the issues be raised at the Area Roads and Southern Committee meetings by way of seeking the county council to prioritise them. ‘This council prioritised roads that urgently needed resurfacing and they must do the same, regardless of the upcoming main drainage scheme,’ he elaborated.

Looking for loo

Cllr Beecher said that road resurfacing on Cork Hill had now prompted a new problem of speeding. Mr. Ryan said that where speed limits are applied, enforcement is a garda matter. The town engineer explained that road lining soon to be applied would assist a solution, with parking bays etc also being re-installed and thus reducing the road width. Cllr Beecher then referred to a ‘toilet’ sign at Claycastle pointing to a private residence, whereby the householder now had people knocking at his door to use his facility! “All the signs need to looked at,” remarked Cllr Murray.

Cllr Burke sought an update on the Redbarn Blue Flag situation. He also referred with some exasperation to the “usual list” of broken footpaths at Tallow Street, South Main Street and Junction of South Abbey and Strand Street. “Its three years since I first raised these issues and not one part of one of them has been fixed,” he observed. Likewise he repeated his regular reference to “the Summerdale Lawn missing sign,” although he conceded he had only been raising that matter for “a year and a half.’ Other matters concerning Cllr Burke were potholes between the AIB and Church Street and a large quantity of sand near the bend close to Aura, that was causing cars to skid.

Foroige proposed beach clean

Cllr Revins said there were pothole problems at Brown Street and on Golf Links Road. He then brought a very welcome proposal to the table whereby Foroige had offered to conduct a beach clean up, should Cork County or Youghal Town Council provide the rubbish bags and facilitate their removal. Cllr Revins said a street clean up was also a possibility in due course The proposal was eagerly accepted, especially, as the town engineer advised, county council staff numbers had been substantially reduced in recent times. The town manager said such an initiative reflected the old, reliable ‘meitheal’ mentality whereby people undertook to resolve community needs themselves. She felt such methodology might be necessary by way of atoning for council cutbacks. However, Cllr Murray reminded her that a similar move by residents to empty street bins, etc in Castlemartyr met with a council warning not to touch them as it was ‘somebody else’s job.’

Cllr Henenssy warned that low signs on the island at the Bretton Road were obscuring motorists ‘and children’s vision and endangering the children going to nearby shop from the playground. The town’s zebra crossings need repainting and Raheen Road’s new footpath has caused problems, with cars parked on both sides  rending the road to narrow.

Mayor’s Business:

The mayor read a letter from South Abbey National Schools seeking support for a new premises. The letter referred to an engineer’s report that indicated a serious need it noted that a 2006 application to the Dept of Education for a new school remained unanswered. It has three teachers, two classrooms and 59 children, with a playground that can only facilitate 20 people at once. It was a critical situation and the council agreed to support it as best they could, including forwarding a letter to the Minister for Education.

Youth café  needs volunteers

The mayor also read a letter from the Garda Youth Project being run in conjunctions with Foroige and intended to assist young people in danger of or already within the Justice system. It was noted that funding cutbacks had claimed the job of the extremely accomplished youth worker Nicola Lucey and that services at the youth café now depended on voluntary endeavours. It was widely agreed that having fought so long and hard to acquire funding –including RAPID input- followed by the establishment of a highly acclaimed and badly needed service, Youghal cannot afford to see the Nagle House centre fall apart. Cllr.  Linehan Foley stressed that parents or other responsible adults need to dedicate the required  two hours per fortnight towards assisting the venture. She reflected that a previous youth centre failed because of flack of voluntary assistance amidst complaints from parents that their children had nowhere to go. “Yet they wouldn’t give an hour of their time,” she said. The town clerk said the government needed to reassess issues such as compelling social welfare recipients to contribute rime towards such community services.

Mayor McLellan advised that Dublin man Cyril Delaney will be contacting councillors seeking support for his bid to acquire justice for his father Robert, a Dublin postman shot last year. The victim remains in a vegetative state. Two alleged ‘hit men’ have been arrested for the crime but the instigator of th eattcak remains at large.

No Tricolour on Easter Sunday

The mayor said she was absolutely disgusted and ashamed” that the 1916 Easter Rising was not honoured with the flag flying over the town hall on Easter Sunday. She said she did not accept the council executive’s reasoning of a work-to-rule regarding overtime as valid. Cllr Hennessy concurred and attested that several people had complained. She said several council employees who were working on the day would gladly have raised the flag. She believed, “we were the only town council in Ireland that failed to do so.”

The town clerk said that alongside the work-to-rule, a national flag has to be erected before dawn and taken down before sunset. Unimpressed, Cllr Hennessy reminded that on St. Patrick’s Day a phone call to the mayor saw the flag erected 20 minutes later. “Where was the work-to-rule then?!” she challenged. The councillor became increasingly vociferous as she informed the meeting that men and women died in 1916 so that “we can sit her in this chamber.” She said there were a flag and a proclamation in the chamber but “yet we couldn’t put up our flag! I don’t think it ever happened in Youghal Town Council Its a disgrace!”

When Mr. Ryan said he had been unaware of the situation, Cllr Hennessy demanded, “Who should have been be aware?! Easter Sunday cones every year!” Amidst a hushed chamber, Town Manager Patricia Power promised procedures to ensure the situation would not arise again.

Motion in the name of Cllr Linehan Foley, seconded by Cllr Burke:

‘That Kilcoran Road be prioritised for road resurfacing and that the works be completed during 2010’:

Cllr Linehan Foley said she had first introduced this Motion ten years ago “and we’re still talking.” She understood there had been extenuation issues meantime involving land purchases, etc. However, the subsequent, existing plans to widen the road would render it “a death tap” by inducing increased speeding. She said the narrow, winding nature of the route abetted safety and that resurfacing was what was required -and badly required, with tyres being blown by the state of the road. With other areas having been deservedly resurfaced, she now feared that money might continue to be allocated elsewhere.

Mr Ryan explained that the money for widening the road could directed towards resurfacing instead if the motion was amended to request that purpose and supported by the councillors. He would then have the work costed and report back so to whether the funding presently available could meet it. If a shortfall existed, they could deal with that issue in due course. Cllr Beecher suggested that “proper traffic calming measures, not strips” be incorporated into such work. He was informed that this was a separate issue and one that would require consensus from residents. The motion was amended to request re-surfacing instead of road widening and unanimously supported.

Motion in the name of Cllr. Murray seconded by Cllr. Beecher:

“That This Council consider a review of commercial development contributions. This review would apply to developments undertaken within a prescribed timeframe, thus encouraging economic activity that would have a positive impact for the town of Youghal”.

Cllr Murray argued that the Planning and Development Act may allow for payment of reduced contribution, or none, in certain circumstances. The motion sought to promote job creation, while in any case the council currently received scant income from development contributions. She elaborated that if contributions were paid in full and in advance and the development started and finished within 18 to 24 months, the council could thus help stimulate the local economy as well as accrue the benefit of rates, the actual contribution and jobs during and after construction while the county council would benefit through water charges.

Cllr Murray said that if the measure was adopted, a substantial decrease in the charge should be introduced to make it attractive, or at least a freeze on the 8% annual increase. Hotels, supermarkets and other private sector enterprises were employing flexibility and innovation and the council needed to think likewise, she   urged.

The town clerk said that the town council could consider its options on contribution fees but that the scheme had two components. The first related to water & sewerage and roads which had been calculated and adopted into al development contributions throughout the county. Those calculations are based on Cork County council’s calculations and can’t be altered by the town council. The other contributions, as levied by Youghal Town Council, concern public lighting, amenities and car parks. He warned that other areas such as expenditure on heritage, the swimming pool car park, etc have already been adopted, and will be impacted upon if the scheme contribution scheme is altered. Amidst widespread support for her motion, Cllr Murray said she was content to await the outcome of negotiations between Cork County Council and the Department of the Environment for water services with regard to the county council gaining a reduction of its 30% contribution to that body, which in turn might enable it to reduce it development contribution scheme. The issue will thus most likely return for further debate.

The May town council meeting will take place Tuesday 11th at 10 am.

YOUGHAL SUFFERS CRIMINAL DAMAGE AND BURGLARY INCREASES DURING MARCH.

By Christy Parker

Youghal experienced 21 incidences of criminal damage, nine burglaries and three drug detections in the period March 2nd to April 6th. There were also 33 drug searches conducted and four incidences of underage drinking detected. The statistics were relayed to April’s Youghal and District Community Alert meeting by the group’s PRO, Sergeant John Sharkey.

According to the sergeant, many occasions of criminal damage are likely related to the town’s ongoing scourge of underage drinking, which in turn seems to have been exacerbated by school holidays. Criminal and anti-social behaviour particularly afflicted the north end of town, from Tallow Street towards Keane Park during the month, with tyre slashed and other property vandalised. Over a dozen residents from the area attended the Community Alert meeting to highlight the issue.

Prosecutions

The North Abbey cemetery, St. Mary’s Collegiate Church, the Slob Bank, the old Murray’s Kitchens site and Mill Road are now recognised as prime locations for illegal drinking. With brighter evenings and finer weather already present and summer holidays imminent, an exasperated garda force last week announced that prosecutions for law breaking, including trespass, will ensue through the probation services, ASBO’s and eventually full criminal convictions if need be. It is being stressed that a criminal conviction carries the extended consequences of influencing visa applications for many years to come. Meanwhile, the gardai have again asked that information or sightings relevant to underage be reported to the station in person or by phone on (024) 92200.

Burglaries

Of the nine burglaries recorded five have been solved according to Sergeant Sharkey. Three of these involved a crime perpetrated by a sole individual at a hotel and another individual was apprehended in relation to burglaries in a restaurant and a bar. Burglaries perpetrated on private houses, including at Atlantic Park remain unsolved, while a car stolen from Atlantic Park last month was recently involved in an attempted robbery in Drogheda.

Other recent incidents of crime include an attempted arson attack at the old CBS building on Golf Links Road and damage to windows at Pobalscoil na Trionoide, both of which occurred on Wednesday night, April 7th. There was also an arson attempt on the old Hilltop Hotel earlier this month, which could have had disastrous consequences give the presence of a hundreds of gallons of heating oil in a neglected oil tank in close proximity.

Personal alarms

A response from the Department of Community and Rural Affairs to the Community Alert groups brought unwelcome news. The group had sought funding for the provision of personal alarms for all 42 applications thus registered. However the department opted to enforce its new restrictions on a maximum of 15 cases per application. Some of the Youghal applications have been registered for over a year, prior to when the scheme was suddenly and temporarily suspended. “Now they want us to re-assess those case,” Sergeant Sharkey informed the meeting. The process will continue regardless however though the committee now face the unenviable task of deciding who to include and who no to include on the first application.

On a brighter note, once this application is processed and the funding put to use, a second application will ensue and so on. A time span of three to six months can be expected between applications. The personal alarm programme is run under the auspices of Muinter na Tire and helps greatly to improve home security for the isolated and elderly, through a central monitoring procedure. The project is not time constrained and applications are continuously accepted. Forms are available from the garda station.

On a concluding note, Youghal’s Foroige youth services continues to seek volunteers to supervise its activities and facilities at Nagle House. The excellent service, established through years of determination and commitment now finds itself combating ubiquitous government funding restrictions. Parents and other adults are asked to consider giving some time to the cause as it were, with as little as two hours per fortnight providing much needed assistance. In a collaborative, consequential way, volunteers are helping to provide Youghal’s youth with alternative options to slashing car tyres on the main streets, it can be said. Tele: 086-1702347.

The next Community Alert meeting is on Tuesday May 4th at 7.45pm in the Walter Raleigh hotel

Evening Echo U-14 Cup Semi-Final
Carrigaline Utd. Girls 1 – Youghal Utd Girls 0

On a balmy evening in Cork Youghal’s U-14s went down bravely in the Evening Echo Cup Semi-Final at the hands of Carrigaline last Tuesday. It was a case of so close yet so far away from a trip to Turner’s Cross. It was generally accepted that the victors here would hold the deserved title of favourites to lift the trophy next month. By Michael Twomey

This is the second season that the girls have seen glory snatched away at the most painful of occasions – a semi-final defeat. Carrigaline are unbeaten this season, breezing through games and scoring goals for fun. However, Youghal were aware that bringing their strongest side, denied them for much of the campaign, meant they had the element of surprising a team that were justified in feeling confident of repeating the 5-0 trashing handed mercilessly out to Youghal last February. So, it turned to be the case that Youghal did indeed surprise Carrigaline with a performance that had guts, guile and no little amount of football ability . Carrigaline started strongly, and as expected, tried to unhinge Youghal down both flanks. Molly Schofield, supported by Rachel Galvin on the right and Kamilla Piecuch, supported by Jessica Swayne on the left nullified the threat superbly throughout a tense opening 20 minutes.

Youghal’s game plan was to smother Carrigaline on the wings and hassle the midfield into submission. Ellen Benaim and Nora Walsh did exactly that. They were tigerish in the tackle while trying to hit quick balls behind Carrigaline to Jess Lawton and Holly Twomey. The plan almost worked when Rachel Galvin’s reverse pass on the right split the full back and centre-half. Jess Lawton took the ball to the byline and hit a forceful cross that evaded the keeper. Holly Twomey had read the move and rushed to the back post but the ball hit the ground and spun up. The striker’s desperate effort to connect with a left foot volley was in vain as the ball skimmed to safety.

Carrigaline continued to press, sticking to their own pattern of play. They finally got round the stubborn  Youghal defence only to see their goal ruled offside. It was a warning to Youghal that Carrigaline  were willing to persevere with their movement until it was rewarded. Jess lawton then broke free but saw her strike sail over the bar.

Youghal’s best effort came from the growing influence that Nora Walsh was having on this tightest of clashes. Her strike from 25 yards, though surrounded by three players, stung the hands of the keeper who dropped the ball onto the line. It brought a sharp intake of breath from both sets of supporters but the outcome was despair for Youghal  and relief for Carrigaline. There was a growing sense of dread that if Youghal failed to take their opportunities that they would pay for the waste. So it transpired when a carbon copy of the offside goal was scored, this time the goal stood. It was a poor goal to give away and showed that Youghal were guilty of being too anxious to clear. Carrigaline’s movement for the goal was excellent. The first half ended but there was no visible slump in either the faces or the body language of the players. On the contrary, talk was of going on to win the game.

The second half began with a series of outstanding saves from Aoife Landers as Carrigaline went in search of a killer blow to Youghal’s iron will with shots from outside the area. In fact, Youghal weathered the storm and a visibly tiring Carrigaline began to concede some ground in midfield. Youghal continued to apply pressure and their best hope was to catch Carrigaline on the counter. Time and again Youghal were only inches away from succeeding in their methods and an edgy Carrigaline defence were not allowed to venture too far forward. One of the best moves of the match, and any match Youghal have played this year, brought the opportunity to draw level. Under pressure by the corner flag, left back Kamilla Piecuch turned infield toward her area and found Ellen Benaim. With the opposition closing, Ellen rolled the ball to the left line where Jessica Swayne pushed it on to midfield. Nora Walsh turned on the ball away from the Carrigaline number 6 and played it wide right. Jess Lawton had to stretch to meet it but her toe poke sent a reverse ball through the middle of the opposition’s defence. The ever alert Holly Twomey was quickest to the ball. The number 9 could not be caught. However, as she got into the area her shot deflected off the keeper’s outstretch foot. The ball spun upward and as Holly chased it the bounce carried it over the dead ball line for a corner. It would prove to be the last chance.

The final minutes whimpered out and the hopes faded with the sunset over Pfizer’s sports centre. The final whistle was greeted with as much relief as joy for a triumphant Carrigaline who conceded that this was an encounter they would not forget. For Youghal, it was thoughts of what might have been, but quickly, words of encouragement led to talk of what will be for this team in the future. Losing today will make this particular team stronger in the long run and they will have their day in the sun. Team: Aoife Landers, Molly Schofield, Katie Manning, Sarah Roche, Kamilla Piecuch, Rachel Galvin, Nora Walsh, Ellen Benaim, Jessica Swayne, Jess Lawton and Holly Twomey. Subs. Marie-Louise Keane, Kelly Sullivan, Clodagh Whelan, Claire Keniry.

Youghal’s U-12 girls’ soccer

Youghal’s U-12 girls’ soccer team finished off their first season in fine style with a 2-0 win over Avondale Utd at Ardrath Park last Saturday.

This was a very evenly matched encounter on a stifling hot day. Chances were far and few between as the pace of the game started slowly. Youghal had most of the possession and pressed the visitors hard. Avondale had to rely on counter attacks. Louise Dempsey was solid at left back and her distribution to the industrious Amy Benaim and Emma Varney meant Youghal looked the more likely to break the deadlock.

Despite spending long periods trying to breach the Avondale defence, the excellent Aisling Fitzgerald at centre-half repelled everything Youghal had to offer. The breakthrough finally came on 22 minutes. Youghal’s debutant, Clodagh Whelan collected the ball on the right. She outpaced the Avondale midfield before slotting the ball behind the defence into the area. Holly Twomey, who had slipped past Aisling Fitzgerald, controlled with the left and finished with the right. 1-0 Youghal.

The second half was a repeat of the first and it became ever clearer that Avondale did not carry a goal threat. Youghal were comfortable in possession and began to play patches of really good football – their best of the season, in fact. They then scored an outstanding team goal. Lynda Galvin turned in midfield and fed a short pass to Amy Benaim, the winger, under pressure, spun the ball out right to Holly Twomey.

The number 9 carried the ball to the corner before turning the full back and crossing the ball into the area where the onrushing Clodagh Whelan struck the ball past the despairing keeper. 2-0. Avondal pushed Aisling Fitzgerald up front and the move almost paid dividends.

The number 5 went on a terrific solo run only to see her effort roll beyond the post. Holly Twomey then picked the ball up in midfield. The speedy striker could not be caught and carried the ball all the way into the area. Unfortunately, goal number 13 for the season evaded her as the ball skimmed the left post and was cleared. It has been a tough introduction to league football for many of the young players this season, especially those playing for the first time.

This match showed how well they have developed their skills and the hope is they will come back stronger next year.

On Monday evening 29th March, a large group of over 50 people attended the inaugural Cork East Labour Party Constituency meeting held in the SIPTU offices in Midleton.  The attendant members were drawn from all the various branches within the Cork East Constituency:- Mallow Branches 1 & 2 , Mitchelstown, Fermoy, Cobh, Midleton and Youghal.

The meeting was opened by Sean Sherlock TD, who was delighted and encouraged by the number of people that were able to attend on such an appalling evening, weather wise. The meeting proceeded to the election of officers as follows:-
President:                Paddy McCarthy.  (Cobh Branch)
Chairman:                Seamus Feehan.  (Fermoy Branch)
Vice Chair:              Donal Hennessy.   (Mallow  Branch)
Secretary:               Eric Nolan.          (Midleton Branch)
Assist. Sec:            Úna Sherlock.        (Mallow  Branch)
PRO:                        Cllr. Donie Daly. (Youghal Branch)
Equality Officer:    Bridget Crowley. (Mitchelstown Branch)
Co – Treasurers:              Cllr. Noel McCarthy (Fermoy ) &
Chris O’Sullivan (Midleton Branch)

Many individuals spoke passionately and enthusiastically and based on the evidence of this gathering the prospects for the Labour Party in Cork East at the next General Election are extremely heartening. Cllr. Noel McCarthy, Mayor of Fermoy spoke at length about these prospects and the goal of achieving 2 Labour TD’s should not be a dream but should be very much a reality. Among others who spoke on the night were  Cllr. James Kennedy (Mallow), Cllr. Donie Daly (Youghal), Cllr. Tom Cashman (Midleton).
Any people interested in joining any of the various Labour Party branches in Cork East should contact their local branch or alternatively Una Sherlock (022) 53523.
Please find attached pictures & piece about the above meeting that took place last Monday. I have been elected PRO for the Constituency council, so would hope to be in regualr conatct with you on various topics or events concerning the labour Party in the region. .

Picture 1 is as follows:-

(Standing from left):
Cllr. James Kennedy (Mallow), Cllr. Ronan Sheehan (Mallow), Úna Sherlock, Assist. Sec. (Mallow), Seán Sherlock, TD, Cllr. Noel McCarthy, Joint Treasurer (Fermoy), Cllr. Donie Daly, PRO (Youghal), Chris O’Sullivan, Joint Treasurer, (Midleton), Cllr. Tom Cashman (Midleton), Bridget Crowley. Equality Officer (Mitchelstown), John Walsh (Midleton).
(Seated from left):
Donal Hennessy, Vice Chairman (Mallow), Eric Nolan, Secretary (Midleton), Seamus Feehan, Chairman (Fermoy), Paddy McCarthy, President (Cobh).

Picture 3.
Cllr Tom Cashman (Midleton), Cllr Donie Daly (Youghal), Michael Sherlock (Midleton)

Picture 4.

Eric Nolan, (Secretary) Cllr. Donie Daly (PRO), Sean Sherlock TD

Picture 5,

Tara & Tommy O’ Connell From Youghal

Click on image to enlarge

Claycastle Pitch and Putt Club

9/5/10

President Thomas Bulman’s prize was played for over the May Bank
Holiday weekend. After  four days and eight rounds of play Don Sheehan
emerged victorious by just one stroke from Martin Dalton. There was  a
great turnout by the members with 170 cards played. Chairperson Joy
Bryan and Lady Captain Phil Mangan paid tribute to Thomas’s years of
dedication and tireless work in our club over the past number of
years. Thomas has been a hands on President in his time in the
position and is always willing and able to help out with any task be
it large or small, we as a club are truly fortunate to have a
President of Thomas’s stature.
Results-Presidents Prize 2010
Overall Nett- Don Sheehan, Overall Gross- Anthony O’ Loughlin, Gents-
1st Nett- Martin Dalton, 1st Gross- Paudie O’ Sullivan, 2nd Nett-
James Howes. Ladies- 1st Nett- Lily Bulman, 1st Gross- Joy Bryan, 2nd
Nett- Sally Wallace. Hole in one prize- Martin O’ Regan.
National Scramble 2010- Douglas/Ballinlough (Cork City)
Our scramble team of Don Sheehan, Colin Sheehan and Johan Brosnan put
in a superb effort at this years National Scramble. The lads performed
excellently on day one when they returned a nett score of 68.33 which
was 30 under par for the 36 holes. Cunnigar led the way overnight on
63.66, so despite the lads display it was still all to do heading into
the final 54 holes on Sunday. All the effort on Saturday proved futile
as the lads’ on route to Douglas on Sunday morning were delayed by a
flat tyre and missed their tee time by 20 minutes and were
unceremoniously disqualified from the competition. A disappointing end
to the challenge of one of the favourites and a sour taste left in the
mouth for the team and club.
Congratulations to Anthony O’ Loughlin and Johan Brosnan who qualified
out of tough sections in Collins for the Gents National Matchplay.
Both players will be playing in the Matchplay for the first time on
the June Bank Holiday weekend at the stunning Larkspur Park course in
Cashell.
Congratulations to Paudie O’ Sullivan and Colin Sheehan who qualified
for the Gents Munster Matchplay which will be played at the Parteen
course in Limerick on the weekend of 29th and 30th of May. Very best
of luck to all our players playing in these huge events over the
coming weeks.
Well done to Gary O’ Sullivan who finished runner-up at the Cunnigar
scratch cup on 19 under par. Ed Long and Martin Keohane also put in
solid performances by making the final 18.
The club matchplay sponsored by ‘Farrells Bar Summerfield’ has reached
the semi final stage this week with Brendan McCaughy awaiting the
winner of Thomas Bulman and Johan Brosnan in the top half of the
draw.Theres an all senior semi in the bottom half with Gary O’
Sullivan taking on Anthony O’ loughlin in what should be a craking
game for a place in this years final
Captain Martin Keohane’s  prize will be played for on the following
dates- Wednesday 12th at 6.15, Friday 14th at 6.15, Saturday 15th at
2.30 and  Sunday 16th at 10.30 + 2.30.
‘Keep Harry Pitchin’
As part of the ‘Barry Kelly memorial challenge’
a 3ball scramble in aid of Cystic Fibrosis will take place on Monday
17th May at 7.00pm.
Harry Hanlon is undertaking a challenge to play each course in Ireland
over a 30 day spell in aid of Cystic Fibrosis and will visit our
course on Tuesday 18th May at 9.00 am.
Harry hopes to raise as much funds as possible for this extremely
worthwhile cause so please give as generously as you can.

Report 25/04/10

Congratulations to our scramble team of Don Sheehan, Colin Sheehan and
Johan Brosnan who qualified for the National scramble. With a terrific
score of -22 for their 36 holes they sailed through the qualifying at
an excellent Lakewood course. The lads can now look forward to the
finals which will be played in Cork at the Douglas and Ballinlough
courses on the 8th and 9th of May. Well done lads and very best of
luck in the final from all at the club.
Well done to Gary O’ Sullivan, Paudie O’ Sullivan, Martin Keohane and
Anthony O’ Loughlin who qualified in Rosscarbery for the Cork senior
Matchplay. Don Sheehan also qualified out of Kilshanig for the
intermediate Matchplay The finals will take place over the weekend of
22nd and 23rd of May at the Collins course in Cork City.
The Club Matchplay sponsored by ‘Farrells Bar Summerfield’ threw up
some mouth watering ties in the first round, most notably the meeting
of Michael Landers and Edward Long. Players will have one week to play
their games with the 2nd round beginning on the 24th of  April.
President Thomas Bulman’s prize starts this Wednesday 28th April at
6.15 sharp. Play will continue on Friday 30th at 6.15, Saturday 1st
May at 2.30 and Sunday 2nd May at 10.30 + 2.30.
Ladies morning each Wednesday at 10.30.

Claycastle Pitch and Putt Club

Report 11/04/10

Our juveniles recorded a superb win in the Cork County Team event
played at the tricky Crosshaven course last Saturday. With just four
players available with Conor Farrell unable to travel due to sickness
the odds were against Claycastle with four scores to count. Stephen
Sheehan, David Poynton, Josh Whelan and Mark Coady played some great
pitch and putt to beat a fancied Fermoy panel into 2nd on a score of
220 to Fermoys 224.Under Johan Brosnan’s stewardship the boys have
started the year in great fashion and hopefully further honours will
follow in the individual tournaments later in the year. Well done
lads!
The scratch cup season took our players to the Majestic course in
Mallow on Easter Saturday where Paudie O’ Sullivan won the 36 hole
prize with a terrific score of -15, brother Gary won the final 18 with
a score of -8.Both players are in great form heading into the 2nd
Irish open at the R.G.S.C. course in Dublin next weekend. On Easter
Monday the lads travelled in force to Tipperary Hills, in what can
only be described as gale force conditions Anthony O’ Loughlin lead
the way after 36 holes on -12 with Colin Sheehan also making the cut.
Unfortunately the playoff didn’t go according to plan  for Anthony who
shot +3 for the front 9 but fought back to finish on -13 and a tie for
3rd place. Colin missed out on a prize by just one shot after carding
a superb round of -4. With our players in contention each week its
only a matter of time before a break through is made and one must have
confidence that top honours will soon be making their way to the club.
Our greens were hollow-tined last weekend with members both young and
old coming out in force to lend a hand. All the help was greatly
appreciated, there were some sore limbs after all the brushing but the
benefit will be seen for the season ahead. The course will re-open on
Saturday 17th April when Martin Keohane begins the defence of the Club
Matchplay Championship which is kindly sponsored by ’Farrells Bar,
Summerfield’. Any players who wish to take part in this terrific
competition should give their names to any member of the committee
before Saturdays draw. This year we will revert back to the old format
of each round being played over one week with each round consisting of
36 holes
Best of luck to Martin Keohane, Anthony O’ Loughlin, Gary O’ Sullivan
and Paudie O’ Sullivan who will atempt to qualify for the Cork
Matchplay in Rosscarberry this Sunday and also to our scramble team of
Don Sheehan, Colin Sheehan and Johan Brosnan who will also be in
qualifying action in Lakewood next weekend.
Dates to remember- President Thomas Bulman’s Prize will take place on
the following dates- 28th + 30th April at (6.30 sharp) ,1st (2.30) +
2nd (10.30+2.30) May. Ladies mornings continue each Wednesday at
11.00am.

Claycastle Pitch and Putt Report 28/3/10

Scratch Cup 2010
The Claycastle scratch cup was played for on Sunday 28th March. This
was the eight year of our hugely popular scratch cup with top players
from all over Munster taking part. With the course in immaculate
condition the scoring was excellent and after 36 holes Paul O’ Brien
(Templemore) lead the field on 12 under par. James Cleary (Clonmel)
-9, John Walsh (Collins) -9, Ray Murphy (Templebreedy)-8, Colin
Sheehan, Gary O’ Sullivan (Both Claycastle) -7 were all in contention
heading in to the final 18. Ray Murphy has struggled around Claycastle
in recent years but he proved he can master any course by shooting -9
for the final 18 to finish on 17 under par. Ray’s round started
quietly by his own high standards by paring the first 6 holes, on the
7th the machine clicked into gear and he went on to birdie 9 of the
next 10 holes to blow away the field. People have run out of
superlatives to describe Ray in recent years and it isn’t any wonder
after seeing him in devastating form at first hand. Paul O’ Brien
played superbly for his first visit to Claycastle and finished in
second place on 15 under par. In third place was James Cleary on 14
under par. Special mention must go to one of our young guns Johan
Brosnan who played superbly to win the final 18 in a field that
included 4 present Irish Internationals.
The club would like to thank the 90 players that took part and made
the day such a great success, looking forward to seeing ye all again
next year.
Scratch Cup Results-
1st Ray Murphy (Templebreedy), 2nd Paul O’ Brien (Lakeside), 3rd James
Cleary ( Hillview), Best 36 John Walsh ( Collins), Final 18 Johan
Brosnan ( Claycastle), 1st Inter- Liam Myers (St. Annes), 2nd James
McKeown ( St. Annes), 1st Junior Aiden O’ Rourke (Cunnigar), 2nd Tom
Pomphrett (Claycastle), Ladies 1st- Vera McCarthy (Collins) Ann
McCarthy (Rocklodge).

County Leagues
The senior teams quest for a final spot ended in vain at the hands of
a vastly experienced Templebreedy team at St.Annes on Sunday 21st
March. The team entered the semis with high hopes after topping their
group with a fantastic record of won 4 drew 1 lost 0.On the day they
came up against a truly inspired Temple outfit who have been here and
done it no less than 16 years in a row. With wins in the foursomes for
Martin Keohane/Ed Long and Gary O’ Sullivan/Colin Sheehan the lads
lead 2-1 with Anthony O’ Loughlin/Paudie O’ Sullivan losing to Ray
Murphy/Richard O’ Flaherty. Temple’s success over the years has been
based on solid singles performances and they duly delivered in
devastating fashion by whitewashing Claycastle 6-0,running out 7-2
winners overall. Although the defeat was hard to swallow the team can
take great heart from reaching the last four  at the first attempt and
hopefully bounce back next year to go a couple of steps further. Very
best of luck to Templebreedy who now face St.Annes in the final.

Congratulations to the O’ Sullivan brothers Paudie and Gary on
qualifying for the Irish open which will be played in RGSC in late
April. Best of luck lads!

Work will commence on the greens next Saturday and all help will be
greatly appreciated. Remember, you don’t have to be on the committee
to lend a hand!

A very glamorous and successful fashion show took place at the Youghal Golf Club on Wednesday 7th April 2010. The event was in aid of the worthy cause of The Emer Casey Foundation and was organised by Event Manager Avril Sheridan, who was a childhood friend of Emer. By Youghalonline reporter | Photos: Barry Lawlor Photography and Michael Hussey Youghalonline.com

Avril told Youghalonline.com that the reason she organised the fashion show is because she is  studying Event Management at college and part of her course is to organise an event. She said ” I choose this fashion show, even though a coffee morning would have done, I wanted to set myself a challenge”. “The reason I picked The Emer Casey Foundation was because Emer was a childhood friend of mine and I always wanted to contribute to such a wonderful charity”.

Avril said “It was a huge success and couldn’t have been done without help from my sponsors, my beautician Triona from Sky Beauty, my hairdresser’s Clodagh, Fiona and Catriona from Go Wild, my sister Emma for her delicious canapes, Pa in the Golf Club, DJ George Harrington and of course all the local shops including Sports and Leisure, Helen’s, Danielle, Genesis, Poppy, James and last but not least Neville’s.

She added ” I would like to give a huge ‘thank You’ to Patricia Kearney who did an incredible job as compere. She really made the night and created the atmosphere I was hoping to achieve. I would like to thank sincerely everyone that supported this wonderful cause and of course Emer’s family for all their tremendous work.”

The fashion show raised a staggering €2,777.50 for the charity on the night. Youghalonline.com would like to thank event organiser Avril Sheridan for her professional planning, management and courtesy shown to us in the smooth running of this event.

Click on image to start slideshow of the event, all photos by Youghalonline.com and are available to purchase, send email to news@youghalonline.com

Tickets on sale now at Cree’s Card Shop, North Main Street, Youghal at €20 on 024 93899.
For further information on bookings call 083 360 6507.

Prepare to be drawn in and bowled over. With four studio albums, a live album, double platinum sales and a Meteor Music Award under her belt, Juliet Turner plays for one night only at the Mall Arts Centre on  Saturday April 24th, 2010 at 8pm!

Turner’s live shows should be experienced. She is a quiet, relaxed performer with a wicked sense of humour. Her voice is unusually clear and sweet and her between song anecdotes are amusing, eccentric and off-the-cuff.

Currently Juliet is studying for a degree in Clinical Speech and Language Studies at Trinity College Dublin, but combines this with an on-going schedule of gigs to support her 5th  album “People Have Names”.

The slow pace of recording and the change of scenery from tour bus to lecture hall seemed to invigorate Turner and the album was a combination of beautiful, intelligent songwriting and subtle musicianship.

Originally from Tummery, near Omagh, Juliet is described by the Irish Times as ‘one of the most intriguing of Irish female song writers, arriving several years ago with a guitar and a batch of brittle, poignant songs; her broad accent and even broader outlook; her bitter-sweet tastes all marking her as one to watch’, this new album showed an exploratory and unsentimental side to Turner’s song writing.

The new batch of songs are thoughtful and less acerbic than some of her previous writing and the narrative lines running through the album are sympathetic and full of warmth. The release of new material seems to fall in a four year cycle and this new album, released in June 2008, was eagerly anticipated. It did not seem to disappoint, being her most critically acclaimed album to date.

On stage with long time guitarist Brian Grace, Juliet Turner has a wry charm, a beautiful voice and fine lyrics, making her a compelling and witty live performer.

Gate Is Open To Stand-Up Comedy And Open Mic On Friday Night

Stand-up comedy returns to Youghal with the Gate bar hosting three of Ireland’s finest up and coming comedians on Friday next (April 9th 2010). Headline act is Eugene Maher from Wexford on his second appearance at the venue, having gone down a storm at the inaugural comedy night last December.

The other booked performers are Jason Keegan from Limerick and Tipperary’s Ben Buckley.

The night belongs to the audience however and an open mic policy will also apply. All and anyone are welcome to give liberty to their talents, be they comedic, musical, yarn spinning, singing, dancing, or whatever; the only restraints being respect for the law and the avoidance of any act involving fireworks and petrol!

Starts about 10.pm. The Gate Bar, South Main Street, Youghal

In one of the most challenging works of theatre ever performed in Youghal, a one-man play premiering in the Mall Arts centre this week depicts the human side of Christ in his final years. By Christy Parker | Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com | Barry Lawlor http://www.lawlorimaging.com/

The Passion sees local actor Brian Hogan adopt the roles of several characters as he leads the audience through the three years preceding and including the scourging at the cross. Brian’s challenge is to convey the emotions, conflicts and frailties of human beings caught up in what would transpire to be the most profound drama in history of mankind.

The 90-minute performance, across two acts, “has religious undertones but looks at the Easter story in a non-religious manner,” says playwright Sean O’Neill. “It focuses on the humanity of Christ and other central characters such as Pontius Pilate, Mary Magdalene and the Roman soldier who pierced Christ’s side with his sword.”

The writer -a Dubliner now living in Youghal- trawled across ancient manuscripts that included the Dead Sea Scrolls, in a research project spanning almost a decade. “I wanted to get as full a picture of Christ’s times and circumstances, as against the rather romanticised version of his life promoted by Church institutions,” he says of his work.

As far as the play is concerned, it’s irrelevant whether or not Jesus was the Saviour, because at the time he was considered just one of hundreds of self-acclaimed prophets.  “Nonetheless, he had acquired a large following while claiming to be the Son of God. This worried the high priests, known as the Sanhedrin, who enforced the law,” explains Sean. “So they killed him without a fair trial.”

Jesus’s Background

The playwright stresses the importance of the political and social structures of the time in defining Jesus. Sean subscribes that “there were four main religious sects in Israel; the Pharisees (generally artists and workers who believed in the afterlife and retribution in next world), the Essenes (ascetics who embraced self-sacrifice), Sadducees (elite class who also believed in afterlife, angels, etc but who made fortunes selling ‘indulgences’ in the temple) and the Zealots (off-stream revolutionaries, opposed to Roman rule). Various argument depict Jesus as being a member either of the Pharisees or the Essenes.

In Sean’s understanding, Jesus would have followed the teachings of his cousin, John the Baptist, an Essene who advocated redemption from sin through baptism. “Jesus spent time fasting in the dessert where, unsurprisingly, he suffered hallucinations,” Sean proceeds. “On his return John was beheaded and Jesus assumed his message. He also claimed he had to die to save mankind but he wouldn’t have been the first prophet to claim this.”

Profits as much as prophets were to be Jesus’s undoing. He routed the indulgence-selling, money-collectors in the temple for, basically, racketeering at a time when 50% of children died through poverty before reaching five. This enhanced his growing support and further undermining the power of the Sanhedrin and other elitists and sealed his faith. “Against this background, we see the non-divine, humanity of Jesus emerge,” observes Sean.

Judas, Pilate etc…

The play’s opening half deals with the three years of Jesus’s ministry. Part two addresses the scourging. Brian endeavours to bring a depth and a new perspective to each of seven characters. Pontius Pilate is re-assessed. “Its unlikely he ever actually met Jesus personally, as he would oversee hundreds of crucifixions in a week,” Sean reflects. Judas, likewise, is revisited. “He was a very learned man, who spoke several languages. I think he sought to intervene on Jesus’s behalf and in time the perception came about that he betrayed him,” Sean alaborates.

Other characters depicted are John the Baptist, Peter the Apostle and the Roman Centurion. Mary Magdalene (played in a short cameo by Terri McCarthy) is also represented amidst insinuation that she has conducted an emotional and physical relationship with Jesus. “He was a rabbi by then and rabbis were incomplete without a partner,” explains Sean.

Challenging

The play presents an unprecedented challenge to (pardon the ironic pun) the life of Brian Hogan, recently returned from his appearance as Vince Matthews in Fair City and more accustomed to plying his talents on a shared stage with Youghal’s Little Theatre and the Brideview Players. I In his first solo role, the actor is imposed upon to hold the audience as he invokes a gamut of emotions, from grief to anger, through guilt, joy, despair and much, much more. He cites “the self pity of Judas and the arrogance of the centurion” as characteristics he has not previously personified, while the reminder, “are familiar but demand more intensity.”

Relishing the challenge, Brian says he has “really, really strived to get into the heads of these characters.” To that effect, Sean encouraged him to let the characters “evolve through trial and error on the rehearsal floor.” As Brian observes, “Every person has many sides to their character and so it’s really about combining the script with personal experience.”  The end result, hopefully, will see audiences emerge with a renewed and deeper understanding of Christ and perhaps one closer to one’s own self-perception.

All local

Brian is abetted in his efforts by local contributions from sound engineer Warren Tivy, lighting technician Tony Irwin and set designer Jesse DeLacour. Local reflection perhaps further extends to the playwright himself, who believes he may be related to the 1798 martyr Fr. Peter O’Neill.  “It was often mentioned in my family when I was growing up that we were related to him, though I’ve no way of proving it just yet,” he explains.

Sean first came to Youghal 20 years ago, through his ex-wife, a Cork woman whom he met through theatre in London. Over the past decade he has twice lived here prior to this permanent reinstatement since 2007. “I have long considered Youghal my spiritual home and now it’s my physical home also,” he smiles.

A seasoned traveller, his life has centred on theatre as writer, actor, director and producer in Ireland, Britain and America. His work has played to audiences in San Francisco as well London and the Triskle in Cork, where, amongst other projects, he directed Frank O’Connor’s An Only Child. A former member of the Cork Shakespeare Company, he now teaches drama at the National Learning Institute in Model farm Road. In his spare time he is simultaneously working on two novels.

Sean says he turned down requests to open The Passion in London, Dublin and Cork. “I thought, ‘why not Youghal? There is enough talent here that’s for sure.” Now there is The Passion to match it.

The Passion runs from Tuesday March 30st to Saturday April 3rd. Admission €20; (opening night €15); concession/OAP/students €15.  Advance tickets at Cree’s card shop. Doors open 7.30. Complimentary wine, teas and coffee.

Click on image to enlarge

To keep Pearl in the wild just text PEARL 53030 ( text cost 30c) and vote each day to help the Youghal girl win the big prize!.
Go on, give Pearl your daily support.  If you can’t win it yourself, wouldn’t it be lovely for Pearl to get it?

Pearl is hoping that the people of Youghal and East Cork will rally round and help her win the competition and the only way to do that is by voting EACH DAY for her. Pearl is a member of the famous Youghal Pipe band and is keeping up the McCarthy family tradition of piping since way back in 1914!.  I havn’t had a holiday in more than five years, she admitted, and boy would I enjoy one with my family.

We wish Youghal’s Pearl McCarthy the best of luck in the RED FM/ FOTA “Week in the Wild” competition.