Rathdowney-Errill GAA announce the date for their annual fundraising golf classic

Rathdowney-Errill GAA are holding their Annual Golf Classic, in the always resplendent Rathdowney Golf Club on Friday, June 9 and Saturday, June 10.

The event is open to teams of 4 (any combination of ladies and men) at an entry fee of €120.

Juvenile and U-20 teams are also welcome at a cost of €60.

It will be the seventh annual running of the classic, which has become firm favourite in the sporting calendar.

Last year’s classic welcomed over 180 golfers, including former and current players, and many golfing enthusiasts who came out to help support the club.

The Camross-Ballacolla quartet of Fint Scully, Richie Moloney, Gerry Kavanagh and Tom Moore showed that they were just as adept with the golf clubs as they were were with a hurl, coming out on top last year with a marvellous return of 93 points.

They just edged out Sean Bolger, Billy Harte, Paud O’Reilly and Malachy Fogarty, after a countback.

Mark Aylward took home the longest drive, while the former Waterford and Limerick legend, Martin Geary, created a piece of golfing history when he scored a hole in one on the 17th – the first in the history of the classic.

The course is always kept in great condition by Lorcan Dunne and the greenkeeping staff, which certainly adds to the occasion.

Regardless of one’s golfing ability, the annual classic offers a great day out for all who take part.

For details regarding the timesheet, please contact Timmy Williams on 087-2885249.

 

SEE ALSO – Rathdowney-Errill beat Borris-Kilcotton to take control at the top of ACHL Division 1

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source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/rathdowney-errill-gaa-announce-the-date-for-their-annual-fundraising-golf-classic/

‘Government must accept its part in increasing women’s exposure to violence’ – Carol Nolan

TD for Laois Offaly, Carol Nolan has launched a stinging criticism of what she says is ‘government failure to provide sufficient domestic violence spaces for women’ in her constituency.

The Independent TD was speaking during a series of Dáil statements on the recent CSO Survey on Sexual Violence.

Deputy Nolan pointed to the Survey’s findings that the majority of adults (78%) who experienced sexual violence at least once in their lifetime knew the perpetrator, with very little difference between women (79%) and men (75%).

“My intention is to place this frightening statistic firmly in the context of domestic violence and the historical lack of such services in my own constituency,” said Deputy Nolan

“If we categorise violence as physical, sexual and emotional harm against women then I believe that the failure of this and previous Governments to provide women’s refuge spaces now means that those very same Governments must accept a direct proportion of the blame for the experiences that women and indeed their children could have avoided if such services were in place.

“The lack of a women’s domestic violence refuge in Offaly for at least 25 years has without any doubt contributed to the levels of violence that women and children in my county could have avoided if sufficient beds and safe spaces were available.

“How could it be otherwise when these women had nowhere else to go?

“I accept that there has been some additional investment in domestic violence services and indeed I welcome that.

“But it is also high time for Government to accept that the delays which they presided over in terms of funding refuges has played an indirect but no less real role in violence against women,” Deputy Nolan concluded.

SEE ALSO – Laois Councillor calls for upgrades to several roads around Durrow

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source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/government-must-accept-its-part-in-increasing-womens-exposure-to-violence-carol-nolan/

Portarlington Credit Union proud to support new book rental scheme for Coláiste Íosagáin

Portarlington Credit Union were delighted and very proud to welcome Coláiste Íosagáin to the office this morning (Tuesday, May 23) for a cheque presentation for their Book Rental Scheme that is being introduced in the school in September 2023, for their incoming first year students.

Portarlington Credit Union are donating €20,000 towards the setting up of this wonderful new Book Rental Scheme.

This scheme will benefit the youth, the education of our youth and it will support families with the cost of sending their child or children to school.

We are aware of the rising cost-of-living expenses and we are thrilled to be able to help develop this scheme in order to ease the burden on parents and continue to support our local community.

Coláiste Íosagáin is the sole provider of post primary education in Portarlington with an enrolment close to 1100 students so this initiative will be a massive difference to the community.

Portarlington Credit Union is a not for profit organization, ran by its members for its members.

Proudly, we are a huge part of this community and we thrive on supporting local.

Pictured at the presentation were:

Justin Brown (Principal), Conor Mitchell (Board of management & teacher), Bernard O’Grady (CEO), Michelle Shortall (Assistant Manager), Fiona Dunne (Youth Officer), Bridie Keegan (Board Member), Colm Coleman (Chairman of PCU), Shane Murray (Board member) and students of Coláiste Íosagáin.

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SEE ALSO – Laois garden designer creates Woodie’s show-garden for Bord Bia’s Bloom 

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source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/portarlington-credit-union-proud-to-support-new-book-rental-scheme-for-colaiste-iosagain/

Range of activities and great celebrations planned as date for Laois Africa Day 2023 confirmed

Laois County Council and the Laois African Support Group have  announced Saturday, June 3, as the date for Africa Day 2023.

Africa Day is an initiative of the African Union, which celebrates African diversity and success and the cultural and economic potential of the continent.

Laois County Council together with Laois African Support Group is among a number of organisations around the country that have been supported by Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas aid programme, managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs
to host Africa Day events this year.

The Africa Day Laois event is taking place on the grounds of Portlaoise Leisure Centre, Portlaoise.

“Portlaoise will be uplifted and transformed by the sights, sounds and smells of Africa, as we gather to celebrate Africa Day Laois,
2023,” the organisers said.

“Africa’s rich culture will be showcased through family-friendly activities, along with music, craft, performances, and educational elements.

“You will be entertained by live music, drama , poetry, along with many more performances.

“There will also be traditional African drumming and dance displays, African fashion, arts and crafts and much more.”

In the interest of sustainability and to help in reducing omissions and traffic congestion, attendees are encouraged to use public transport, to walk or to cycle to your local Africa Day.

Organisers have also recommend that attendees bring a refillable water container to avoid the use of single use plastic.

There will also be a Laois Africa v Laois Gardai soccer match on the astroturf pitch at 11.30am that morning as part of the celebrations.

“Last year’s event took place in glorious sunshine and was truly a great celebration of African culture. We hope to see you again on Saturday, the 3rd of June. You are invited to embrace African culture by wearing bright colours,” the organisers said.

SEE ALSO – Laois Association Dublin hold their first official outing since the pandemic

The post Range of activities and great celebrations planned as date for Laois Africa Day 2023 confirmed appeared first on Laois Today.

source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/laois-county-council-and-laois-african-support-group-announce-date-for-africa-day-2023/

Shine 2023 to go centre stage in Emo this Saturday – a brilliant free family event

This weekend will see the return of Shine 2023 to the beautiful surrounds of Emo Court Estate and Gardens.

After the super success of Shine 2022 that saw teams compete, spectators entertained and local businesses showcase all they had to offer, Emo is looking like the place to be this Saturday.

The all-day event, starting from 9am will see teams compete from all over Ireland seeking to be crowned “Ireland’s Fittest Team”.

Surrounding the centre stage, there will be numerous stalls to browse with quality, local offerings and plenty entertainment for all the family.

The Main Event

Shine will be one of the greatest athletic events in Ireland this summer. 32 teams from all across Ireland will come to Emo, Co. Laois and compete in a series of obstacle courses and head to head events.

Teams from different sporting backgrounds including GAA, basketball, soccer, athletics, and swimming and also from schools, colleges and businesses will battle it out in front of 5,000 spectators. Only one team can earn the crown of Ireland’s Fittest Team.

The team will be made up of six athletes. Each event requires four athletes to participate, with a minimum of one female member in each event. Subs will be used as per rules for use of Subs.

Support your team through each phase throughout the day as teams battle though the qualifiers and semi-finals in the hope of making it to the Grand Final on Saturday afternoon.

Trade Show in Association with Laois Chamber Alliance

Shine 2023 will also showcase some of the best of what Laois has to offer.

We are partnering with Laois Chamber of Commerce and other local organisations to bring a great array of products and services that’s on offer in Laois.

With up to 5,000 visitors expected on the day, this is a great opportunity for Laois business to have direct contact with their customers who in turn can taste, feel, understand and purchase the wonderful products and services that Laois companies produce.

Emo Court Estate will provide the setting for our trade show and with free entry on the day, this promises to be a fun, enjoyable family day out.

The Venue

Emo Court is a quintessential neo-classical mansion. This magnificent Estate and its Gardens is a popular tourist attraction all year round and is under the care of the OPW.

The gardens are a model of neo-classical landscape design, with formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks just waiting to be explored.

On the day, the events will take place across the lawns with spectacular views throughout. There will be plenty of parking and lots to do and see for the spectators.

Getting There

Shine 2023 is just 2.5km from Emo. (Accessed from Kildare – Portlaoise Road – N7, Just off the M7 Motorway).

Portarlington train station is 7km from Shine.

There will be ample free parking on the day.

Entry is Free

Entry is FREE on the day for the public and you can get your free tickets here.

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SEE ALSO – Win a Husqvarna Trimmer with Millers Home and Garden giveaway

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source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/shine-2023-to-go-centre-stage-in-emo-this-saturday-a-brilliant-free-family-event/

Deaths in Laois – Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Below are the recent local deaths.

May they rest in peace.

Paraic Cummins
Kilminchy, Portlaoise, Laois / Lullymore, Kildare

Cummins, Paraic, Limetree Ave., Kilminchy, Portlaoise. 20th May 2023. Peacefully at St James Hospital. After a short illness. Son of the recently deceased Margaret Cummins. Predeceased by his sister Maddie. Dearly loved husband to Linda. Cherished father to Sarah and Conor. Deeply regretted by his father John, brother Sean, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces, cousins and a large circle of friends and neighbours.

Family flowers only, donations, if desired, to St James Hospital Foundation for the End of Life Initiative.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later.

Michael Delaney
Newtown Bog, Crettyard, Laois

Passed away peacefully at home in the company of his loving family.

Father of the late James. Michael will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his beloved wife Patricia, daughters Bernadette, Karen, Ann and Deirdre, sisters Helena and Julia, sons-in-law Peter, James, Eamonn and Frank, brother-in-law Sammy, his adored grandchildren Mike, Callum, Matthew, Evana, Noel, Jim, Luke and Ava, Mike’s wife Kat and Callum’s wife Georgia, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Reposing at his home (Eircode R93 XP48) on Tuesday (23rd May) from 4pm with Vigil Prayers and Rosary at 8pm. Funeral cortege arriving at St. Abban’s Church, Doonane, on Wednesday for Requiem Mass at 12 noon followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. House private on Wednesday morning, please.

Please use the online condolence link to offer the family your sympathies and share memories of Michael.

William (Will) Sherlock
Eyne, Portlaoise, Laois

The death has occurred of William (Will) Sherlock, Eyne, Portlaoise, Laois (R32WNR1). Will Sherlock, Eyne, Portlaoise, Co. Laois, died peacefully on 22nd May 2023, in the loving care of the staff at St Brigid’s Hospice The Curragh surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his father Mick, Uncle Billy and sister-in-law Brenda.

Beloved husband of Helen and devoted father of Ella, Billy, and Leah. Much loved son of Ann, Brother of John, Patrick, Michael, Roseann and Mark. He will be sadly missed by his Aunt Bridie, sisters-in-law Louise, Miriam, Roisin & Una, brothers-in-law Gearóid, Des & Seamus, father and mother in law, Michael and Teresa, nieces & nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends including those in Portlaoise Rugby Club & The Irish Prison Service.

Funeral Arrangements Later

Sr. Bridget (Bridie) Bolger
Loreto Convent, Kilkenny City, Kilkenny / Cullohill, Laois

Sr. Bridget (Bridie) Bolger (Loreto Convent, Kilkenny and late of Cullohill, Co. Laois) May 20th 2023 (peacefully) in the loving care of the staff at Brookhaven Nursing Home. Predeceased by her parents Michael John and Kathleen, brother Eddie. Deeply regretted by her Loreto Community, brothers and sisters Sheila, Kieran, Mary, Kathleen, Michael, Geraldine and Pat, aunt Maureen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family and friends.

Reposing at St. Canice’s Church from 6p.m. on Monday concluding with Vigil Prayers and Rosary at 7.30p.m. Requiem Mass on Tuesday at 12 noon followed by interment in the Convent Cemetery.

Sr. Bridie’s Requiem Mass will be live streamed on www.stcanicesparish.ie

SEE ALSO – Deaths in Laois – Monday, May 22, 2023

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source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/23/deaths-in-laois-tuesday-may-23-2023/

Extreme sadness at the death of the hugely popular Will Sherlock

There is a huge sadness around Laois today with the news of the death of Will Sherlock, a young man aged only in his mid 40s.

From Eyne outside Portlaoise, Will had been battling illness for the past couple of years.

A giant of a man and universally popular, Will worked as a prison officer in Portlaoise.

Will Sherlock in action against Portarlington in a league game in 2011. Picture: Alf Harvey.

He was synonymous with Portlaoise Rugby Club, with whom he played for more than 30 years. He was a former captain of the club and a Towns Cup winner in 2003.

He first joined the club as a young boy and went to play at all levels up until he got sick in recent years.

He was a hugely respected figure across all sections of the club and as well as playing, he regularly put his shoulder to the wheel in club activities off the pitch.

Will is survived by his wife Helen (nee Mulhare) and young children Ella, Billy, and Leah.

Predeceased by his dad Mick, Will is also mourned by mother Ann, brothers John, Patrick, Michael and Mark and sister Roseann.

He will be sadly missed by his aunt Bridie, sister-in-laws Louise, Miriam, Roisin and Una, brothers-in-law Gearóid, Des and Seamus, father and mother in law, Michael and Teresa, nieces and nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends including those in Portlaoise Rugby Club and The Irish Prison Service.

Funeral arrangements will be announced later. May Will Rest in Peace.

Will Sherlock in 2009 after being appointed Portlaoise RFC club captain. Also in the photo is president Ciaran Reilly and vice-captain Ivor O’Loughlin

SEE ALSO – 2017 LaoisToday interview with Will Sherlock on his involvement with Portlaoise Rugby Club

The post Extreme sadness at the death of the hugely popular Will Sherlock appeared first on Laois Today.

source https://www.laoistoday.ie/2023/05/22/extreme-sadness-at-the-death-of-the-hugely-popular-will-sherlock/