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CYMS Hosts Celebration Honouring 30 Years of the Community Employment Programme

A special gathering took place in the Youghal Catholic Young Men’s Society (CYMS) hall at Market Square on Monday, 3rd November 2025, as supervisors and participants from the Community Employment (CE) Programme, along with officials from the Department of Social Protection (DSP), were warmly welcomed by CYMS committee members. The morning marked the 30th anniversary of the Community Employment Programme — an initiative that has provided vital work and training opportunities across Ireland for three decades.

To commemorate the occasion, a newly designed plaque inscribed with “Fostaíocht Pobail Ag Comóradh 30 Bliain – Community Employment Celebrating 30 Years 2024” was unveiled and installed on the CYMS Sporting Wall of Fame inside the society’s recently refurbished premises.

Speaking at the event, Brendan Cooney, Honorary Vice President of the CYMS, expressed his delight in hosting the group alongside fellow committee members Anthony Horgan, Treasurer, and Gary Roche, CYMS employee. “We’re proud of our long-standing friendship with the CE supervisors and participants,” he said. “It’s a pleasure to welcome both the new faces and some of our retired supervisors back to see the wonderful improvements we’ve made to our historic venue.”

Brendan guided guests through the revamped facilities, which now include upgraded seating, new doors and heating, and four championship snooker tables fitted with under-table heating. “We’ve invested €20,000 in this refurbishment,” he noted, “ensuring CYMS remains a welcoming and well-equipped space for both senior and junior members—membership is now almost at full capacity.”

Among the guests was retired CE Supervisor Mary Carson, who fondly recalled her years of collaboration with CYMS. “The kindness and professionalism shown to me during my time here were exceptional,” she said, smiling as she reunited with familiar faces. Linda O’Loughlin, representing the CE Programme, also emphasised the enduring value of CE placements, remarking that many participants have gone on to successful and rewarding careers thanks to the experience gained through the scheme.

During the visit, the group admired the array of trophies and memorabilia celebrating CYMS sporting successes at national and international levels, including the most recent award presented by visiting snooker teams at the Anthony Fouhy Memorial Tournament, attended by Irish snooker legend and tournament patron Fergal O’Brien just two weeks ago.

The gathering concluded on a warm and convivial note, as everyone enjoyed tea, coffee, and scones in the inviting surroundings of Treacy’s Nook Bar on North Main Street. The welcoming atmosphere — complemented by a glowing fire on a wet November morning — perfectly reflected the enduring spirit of friendship, community, and hospitality that CYMS has exemplified for more than a century.

Pictured at the CYMS, Youghal, marking 30 years of the Community Employment Programme are: Linda O’Loughlin, Community Employment Supervisor; Edel Powell, Department of Social Protection, Community Development Officer; Dermot Ryan, Department of Social Protection, Assistant Participants Officer; Theresa Aherne, Assistant Supervisor, Youghal Community Services; Sarah McQuade, Chairwoman, Youghal Community Services; Mary Carson, Retired CE Supervisor; Brendan Cooney, Honorary Vice President, Youghal CYMS; Anthony Horgan, Treasurer, Youghal CYMS; and Gary Roche, CYMS employee. ... See MoreSee Less

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From Youghal to the Faroe Islands: The Legacy of Seaman Tommy Roche

The Roche family of Youghal continues to solemnly honour the memory of Seaman Thomas (Tommy) Roche, a native of Water Lane, The Mall, Youghal, who lost his life in service during the Second World War. Just after the Remembrance Service held last Sunday, this tribute reflects both remembrance and ongoing commitment to keeping Tommy’s story alive.

Born on 18th October 1909, Tommy was the son of Patrick (Pats) and Margaret Roche, and brother to Micky Roche, former Station Officer of the Youghal Fire Brigade, Bridie Nunn, Nellie McLoughlin, and Kitty Heaphy. He was also the uncle of Tommy Roche, also a former Station Officer of the Youghal Fire Brigade, Margaret Carey, Mary Hayes, and the late Mick Roche.

Tommy served with the Royal Merchant Navy and was stationed aboard the HMS Europa from 5th to 11th September 1940 before being transferred to the HMS Trawler Lincoln City—an anti-submarine warfare vessel patrolling the waters between Denmark and the Faroe Islands.

In February 1941, the Lincoln City was based in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands. During a German air raid on 21th February 1941, the crew successfully shot down an enemy bomber before their vessel was torpedoed and sunk. All eight crew members, including Seaman Tommy Roche, aged just 33, were lost.

Tommy Roche is laid to rest in Grave 98, Tórshavn Cemetery, Faroe Islands. The gravestone, often covered by a blanket of white snow among the many others in the cemetery, stands as a silent tribute to sacrifice. A photomontage showing Tommy as a young man beside his headstone captures a poignant reminder of the life lost in service.

For many years, the Roche family has ensured that Tommy’s sacrifice is remembered by arranging for a wreath to be placed on his grave through the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. They remain dedicated to sharing Tommy’s story so that his service and ultimate sacrifice—and those of his shipmates—are never forgotten.

Seaman Tommy Roche’s name is also etched on the war memorial panels at St Mary’s Collegiate Church in Youghal, where over 200 men from the town are honoured for their service and sacrifice during both the First and Second World Wars. The panel bearing Tommy’s name is displayed in St Anne’s Chapel within the church, serving as a lasting tribute within the very heart of the community he called home. The photo of this memorial panel accompanies this article, providing a tangible connection to the many Youghal men remembered for their bravery and commitment. ... See MoreSee Less

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Honouring Courage and Sacrifice: Youghal's Annual Service of Remembrance 2025

The annual Service of Remembrance and Commemoration took place solemnly in the Collegiate Church of St Mary, Youghal, on this First Sunday of November, the 2nd of November, 2025. The sacred atmosphere was imbued with reverence as generations of families, and members of the services gathered to honour and remember those who sacrificed their lives in the pursuit of peace.

The service was graced by the voices of the clergy: Canon Peter Rhys Thomas, Rev Edwin Hunter, and The Ven. Andrew Orr, Archdeacon of Cork, Cloyne & Ross, whose moving words captured the depth of sacrifice and the enduring hope for peace. The Ven. Andrew Orr reminded those present that remembrance is not merely a look to the past but a profound commitment to peace in the present and future, resonating deeply with Ireland's shared history of service and sacrifice.

Colour parties from the Organisation of National Ex-servicemen (ONE), Royal Naval Association (RNA), RNLI, Coastguard, and the Royal British Legion brought a poignant and dignified presence to the occasion. The sounds of the lone piper, Ex Sgt Christy McCarthy of the Youghal Pipe Band, echoed hauntingly through the church as he played the bagpipes, weaving aural threads of remembrance and honour.

The church was further filled with the captivating singing of Mary Donnelly, whose rendition of "I'll walk with God" stirred the hearts of all. Accompanied by Kevin O'Connell on the organ, whose skill brought life to the bellows, the poignant notes of the Last Post were played by Alan MacDonald and the grandson of Norman MacDonald, marking the solemn close of the ceremony.

Members of the congregation took part in the solemn ceremony by reading out the names of those from Youghal and beyond who gave their lives in service. Their voices, steady and respectful, ensured that each individual was remembered personally and with honour. Adding to the gravitas of the occasion, the heartfelt recitation of the war poem "In Flanders Fields" by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae echoed through the church, resonating with the themes of sacrifice, remembrance, and hope.

Congregants moved with quiet dignity to place red poppy wreaths at the Nave of the church, their acts of remembrance framed by the magnificent stained glass windows rising above the altar on the East wing—a vivid symbol of light and hope standing against the shadows of loss.

Norman MacDonald, the chief organiser, ensured that every element of the service proceeded with perfect order and timing, his dedication contributing to the solemnity and grace of the event.

This Service of Remembrance was a powerful testament to courage, compassion, and hope, eloquently honouring the memory of those who served and died. It was a moment to remember their sacrifice and a call to cherish and protect peace, today and into the future. We will remember them. ... See MoreSee Less

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GALLERY MÓR OPENS AT YOUGHAL: A CREATIVE HUB UNITING EAST CORK AND WEST WATERFORD ARTISTS

The recent opening of the GALLERY MÓR at 74 North Main Street, Youghal, marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s artistic community. The gallery serves as a collective hub showcasing the talents of almost 60 artists from rural East Cork and West Waterford, making it a unique and vibrant addition to Youghal’s cultural landscape.

A UNIQUE ARTISTIC COLLABORATION

John McHarg from Midleton and Judy Shinnick from Ardmore, key members of the MOR Artist Collective, shared insights about this inspiring new initiative in a lively interview recorded on November 1st. McHarg explained the significance of the collective’s name: “It’s very interesting today and very apt. Judy is from West Waterford, I’m from East Cork. The collective takes its name from An Abhainn Mhór (the Blackwater River), which joins our two regions together. It brings us all together.” This collaboration is supported by both the Cork and Waterford Arts Offices, emphasising its cross-county spirit.

SHOWCASING DIVERSE TALENT

Judy Shinnick, who works primarily in portraits and plein air painting, described her art practice and her excitement for the gallery: “I am doing a watercolor portrait of John here—it’s much easier to do in a setting like this rather than getting John to sit still for weeks with oils. Mostly, I do portraits but also landscapes and plein air work.” She highlighted the social aspect of their Saturday outdoor painting group, where artists of all disciplines gather, gently critique each other’s work, and enjoy lunch: “It’s very sociable. Anybody can join us on a Saturday. We have all disciplines—oils, watercolors, pastels, pen and ink. It’s a fantastic way to spend a morning.”

AN OPEN INVITATION TO THE COMMUNITY

Both artists expressed how the gallery is more than just a shop; it’s a real meeting place for creators and patrons alike. John McHarg said, “Everything here is priced to sell with Christmas in mind. It’s open every day from 11 till 4 and is manned by two artists daily. It might become permanent if the support is there.” Judy added, “It’s a fantastic initiative with 50 or 60 different artists of all disciplines. We meet monthly, hold workshops, and help each other out. It’s all about connection.”

ENRICHING YOUGHAL’S CULTURAL SCENE

This collective venture, which boasts not only painters but musicians, ceramicists, sculptors, and poets, brings a new energy to Youghal's historic streetscape. “Next door, you have the Film Museum, then further up the street you have the Lace Museum. It’s becoming once again a centre of great creativity,” said John McHarg. Both artists encourage locals and visitors to come in, browse, and connect with the artwork and the artists behind it.

VISIT GALLERY MÓR

The GALLERY MÓR is located at 74 North Main Street, open daily, offering a wonderful opportunity to discover and purchase unique pieces from East Cork and West Waterford artists. For those interested, more information is available at morartistscollective.com, and the gallery’s welcoming doors are open for visitors curious to experience this thriving artistic community firsthand.

This new artistic hub is a delightful celebration of local creativity and connection, supported generously by the Arts Councils of both Cork and Waterford, marking a promising future for Youghal’s cultural scene.

This encouraging spirit captured in the words of John McHarg and Judy Shinnick invites everyone to explore the GALLERY MÓR and witness first-hand the talents of this remarkable collective, fostering both community and artistic excellence.

The Mór Artists Collective is supported by the arts offices of Cork and Waterford County Councils and managed by Greywood Arts. The pop-up shop is supported by Creative Ireland and Cork County Council.

By Michael Hussey | Photo: Michael Hussey

Pictures taken inside and outside the GALLERY MÓR on November 1st, 2025:

1. Artist Judy Shinnick carefully paints a watercolour portrait of fellow artist John McHarg inside the GALLERY MÓR on Youghal’s North Main Street.

2. Locals Leah Ahern and Laura Donoghue watch with interest as Judy Shinnick works on her watercolour portrait of John McHarg.

3. Judy Shinnick demonstrates her artistic process with a detailed watercolour as visitors enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the new GALLERY MÓR.

4. Outside the GALLERY MÓR, artists Judy Shinnick and John McHarg stand beneath the distinctive "GALLERY MÓR" sign, proud to showcase East Cork and West Waterford creativity in Youghal. ... See MoreSee Less