Tipperary Councillor Mr Willie Kennedy has confirmed tonight that following his ongoing representations, the following road repairs will be undertaken with immediate effect by Tipperary County Council.

In a statement Cllr. Kennedy said: “It has been confirmed to me personally that the road from Stouke to Whitepound Cross near Drumbane, Thurles, will be resurfaced in the coming weeks.
I can also confirm today that the following named roads will also receive much needed repair works, e.g. the road at Cloneyross and Gortahoola near Drumbane, Thurles; Gortakelly near Upperchurch, Thurles; Glentane near Borrisoleigh, Thurles and Ballypatrick, near Bouladuff, Thurles.  All these repairs will commence within the coming weeks.

Apologising for any inconvenience caused during these necessary repairs, shortly to be undertaken, Cllr. Kennedy continued; “These roads have had no repair works undertaken so far this year and these forthcoming improvements are therefore most welcome. I will continue to make representations to the council for the inclusion of these same roads in the new 3 year Road Programme, latter which is currently being compiled by the Council and expected to be fully finalised later this year.”

For further information and updates contact Cllr. Willie Kennedy at Tel: 0504-52122.

Dole Queue

As I write today, our local Tipperary politicians, who are paid salaries on average of €90.000 per annum or €43.25 per hour based on a 40 hour week, not to mention their €125,000 in annual expenses, are all on holiday.

Overall here in Co. Tipperary some 11.7 % of commercial properties (7,475 available business sites) remain unoccupied. In the South of Co. Tipperary, in the town of Clonmel, almost 15% of commercial units remain vacant, (the national average being 12.6%).

Last week politicians Mr Enda Kenny; Mr Alan Kelly; Mr Tom Hayes and Mr Richard Bruton boosted their personal travelling expenses, by trotting into the south of our county to the town of Cahir: here to announce 152 jobs and a €50m Investment at ABP Food Group, all designed to boost in particular the Cahir area and Co. Tipperary in general.

However unlike Enda Kenny’s and Richard Bruton’s attendance at the ‘Banking Inquiry’ hours previously; in ABP Cahir no one produced a Holy Bible asking that all Public Elected Representatives solemnly swear, by Almighty God, to “tell the truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth”.

Blatant General Election Spin In Co Tipperary.

Enda Kenny: Officially opening the new ABP facility, Taoiseach Enda Kenny appeared not to be wholly informed when he publicly announced 152 future jobs as part of ABP’s investment in Cahir, quoting; “another sign of the progress, momentum and confidence in the Agri-food industry”.

Richard Bruton: Jobs Minister Richard Bruton’s statement appeared to contradict Enda Kenny’s earlier announcement of a future 152 jobs when he added, “We have put in place our regional jobs plans to accelerate employment growth in every area. Today’s announcement that ABP continues to grow employment in Cahir, with 150 jobs created so far and more expected in the future, is a great boost for Tipperary.”

Then came his ‘Location Spin’, “The South East is growing jobs at the fastest rate of any region in the country, and with investments like this we can have confidence that this growth can continue in the coming years.” The East meaning Co. Dublin “Yes Minister,” but surely to add ‘South’ into this equation is somewhat of an exaggeration, especially when talking about a small town in Co. Tipperary.

Alan Kelly: Tipperary’s Minister for the Environment, Community & Local Government, Alan Kelly said the investment demonstrated a strong vote of confidence in both the region and the people of Co. Tipperary. “ABP Food Group has been in Cahir for over 40 years and with over 600 people employed, it has always been a big employer in the area.” he stated.

Tom Hayes: Tipperary’s Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine, Tom Hayes TD was under no such job illusions when he stated, “This is a huge investment in local Irish food with a global reach. As Minister of State it is heartening to see how the Department’s Beef and Sheep meat Investment Fund has encouraged companies to undertake a series of investments in the future of their industry. I would also like to congratulate ABP on their investment in people and in skills and their pioneering commitment to Origin Green, which brings so many benefits to rural communities.” Unusually no evidence of the promise of future jobs in your statement then Mr Hayes.

Paul Finnerty: ABP chief executive Paul Finnerty made no such futuristic jobs forecast; other than to state that the economic benefits of ABP’s recent redevelopment, particularly during the construction period, “have been delivered during a difficult period for the local labour market”.

The True Current Unemployment Figures In Co. Tipperary.

During the last two months of May 1st to June 30th of the current year, 2015, Co Tipperary’s unemployment figures, shown under the CSO categories of ‘All Ages’ – ‘Both Sexes’ increased / rose by 835 persons.

In the town of Cahir alone, during the same period (May 1st to June 30th 2015), some 74 persons joined the ranks of the unemployed.

To add fuel to this raging furnace, during this same period (May 1st to June 30th 2015) at least 373 unemployed persons here in Co. Tipperary had already been moved off the Unemployment Register to work on Tús schemes (See Rates) and therefore not correctly categorised as being unemployed persons.

The true figures for increased unemployment in Tipperary during the period (May / June 2015) should therefore truly read approximately 1208.  This figure does not take into account those other persons who chose to accept emigration. Neither does it take into account those who could not afford to leave this country and have since become a member of that well known unpaid Internship Club called JobBridge; latter which continues to remain unmonitored, offering poor conditions and little if any insurance cover.

Almost 5 years in office and imagine, not even one job created during that time in Co. Tipperary – what an achievement!

To our Tipperary TD’s; enjoy the holidays boys and girls, and remember we the taxpayers have just employed, solely for your benefit, a new fitness instructor to be installed in the Oireachtas Gym on an annual salary of €56,580.

The reason you ask?  So that when you return, this instructor can assist in attempting to remove any recently gained, unrendered lard or other acquired fatty tissue from your lazy, useless, fat rear ends.

Colette Fitzpatrick

The broadcasting team at Newstalk (106 – 108fm) confirmed yesterday that Tipperary native Colette Fitzpatrick will be joining the broadcasting team at Marconi House to present a new Sunday morning Radio Show.

The new ‘Colette Fitzpatrick Show‘, which is sponsored by Marks & Spencer, will go out on air on Ireland’s National Independent Talk Radio with her show for the first time this coming Sunday (August 2nd) at 9:00am.

M/s Fitzpatrick’s new show will include discussions, expert advice, high profile interviews together with topics including psychology, women’s health and well-being, parenting, book reviews and of course TV.

The Co. Tipperary native, who gained her journalism degree from DIT Aungier Street originally began work at the now named East Coast FM radio station in Co Wicklow. She also spent time working at Today FM, before making the move to TV3 television in 2001.

Presently the 40-year-old mum-of-two is a household name, being one of TV3’s main news anchors and presenting daily news bulletins from the Ballymount station for the past fourteen years, together with hosting the prime time current affairs show ‘Midweek’ every Wednesday and writing her weekly column with ‘The Herald’ newspaper.

The TV hostess and natural beauty was married on May 16th 2009 at Holycross Abbey, Thurles, to Station Director Niall McDermott and the couple are parents to a son Milo (aged 5 in Nov.) and a daughter Olivia (aged 2).

Massive congratulations to top athlete Miss Rachel Ryan who was first to cross the finish line, taking a gold medal in the track events at the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles.

Miss Ryan aged 26 and a native of Templemore in Co. Tipperary, who was running in the 400 metres event at Loker Stadium, also posted a personal best time in her race this afternoon in 30 degree heat.

“I’m very happy and excited, I didn’t think I was going to come first, but I guess when you don’t think a thing it ends up happening. So I’m very excited,”  Miss Ryan stated.

Miss Ryan’s Gold, up to time of my writing, now brings to 22 the number of medal’s secured by the Irish Team at this year’s Summer Games.

M/s Ailish Smyth, head athletics coach, stated that she was thrilled with the performance of her athletics contenders.

These 2015 Special Olympics Summer games will continue until August 2nd, with athletes from across Ireland competing in 12 different disciplines.

It is with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Friday 31st July 2015) of Mrs Ellen Cormack (née Ryan), Manselstown, Moyne, Thurles, Co. Tipperary

The passing of Mrs Cormack, who was predeceased by her husband Anthony, is deeply regretted by her loving sons Paddy, Tony, Francis, Aiden and Paul, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister-in-law Monica, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

Funeral Arrangements
The earthly remains of Mrs Cormack will repose at Egan’s Funeral Home, Dublin Road, Thurles, on Sunday evening (August 2nd), from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, arriving at St. Mary’s Church, Moyne, at 7.30pm.

Funeral Mass will take place on Monday, August 3rd, at 11.30am, with burial after Mass in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Moyne, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

It is with great sadness we learned of the death today (Monday August 3rd)  of M/s Mary Croke, Curraheen, Horse and Jockey, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

M/s Croke passed away peacefully in the loving care of the excellent staff of the Community Hospital of the Assumption, Thurles, deeply regretted by her sorrowing son Phonsey, brothers, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, extended family and many friends.

Funeral Arrangements

M/s Croke will arrive at St. Peter’s Church, Moycarkey, Thurles, tomorrow (Tuesday August 4th), at 7.30pm.

Requiem Mass will take place on Wednesday morning at 11.30am with burial afterwards in St. Peter’s Cemetery.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

Miss Eibhlis Maher (International Miss Macra festival PRO), reports:-

Miss Susan Willis, representing Co. Carlow was crowned International Miss Macra 2015, at the close of the 44th International Miss Macra Festival, which took place over the August Bank Holiday weekend.

Miss Julie Muldowney, representing Co. Kilkenny, achieved second place, while Miss Helen Hayes representing North Tipperary, was awarded third position.

The names of the winners were announced at that enchanting hour of midnight, when a rare eerie silence descended on the Ballroom in Dundrum House Hotel, marking the conclusion of this year’s festival and where the Macra Gala Banquet had taken place earlier that evening.

Miss Susan Willis was presented with a specially-made Sterling Silver Tiara, embellished with cubic Zirconia, designed and hand crafted by Michael’s Jewellers Thurles, marking the 40th anniversary of International Miss Macra Festival. Miss Willis also was proudly presented with the Perpetual Silver International Miss Macra Trophy, courtesy of Dundrum House Hotel management, together with a piece of Galway Crystal and a cash prize of €1000.

The second placed, Miss Julie Muldowney, received a specially commissioned piece of Galway Crystal and a cash prize of €500, while Miss Helen Hayes, adjudged a close third, also received a piece of Galway Crystal and €300 prize money.

A record over two hundred and forty people sat to dine at the five course Gala Banquet on Sunday evening last, held in the luxurious Dundrum House Hotel, thus concluding this year’ most successful festival to date.

Previously, that morning all International Miss Macra 2015 contestants attended mass in the local parish church in Clonoulty-Rossmore and afterwards togged-out to prove their worth by taking part in a sports day.

Musical entertainment on the Sunday night was provided by the band ‘The Guest Band’ followed by Ireland’s No 1 favourite DJ, ‘Don Andrews’.

This year saw twenty-two contestants, each chosen by their Macra Clubs, took part in the 44th International Miss Macra Festival.

The enormous success of this year’s festival, which attracted record crowds, is due completely to the hard work of all Clonoulty / Rossmore Macra members, who undertook the precise planning and organising of this festival on a completely voluntary basis, under the leadership of Mr Donnacha Ryan (Chairperson).  Indeed, speaking on behalf of this year’s sponsors Mrs Joan Pollard Carew (Michaels Jewellers, Friar Street, Thurles) strongly recommended that the Clonoulty / Rossmore committee should immediately take over from our present government, so successful were the formers efforts in the promoting of rural Ireland, its heritage, tourism and valued traditions.

In relinquishing her last year’s title, the former International Miss Macra winner of 2014, Miss Brid Cooney, stated “What an amazing 12 months it has been representing Macra na Féirme, Avondhu Macra and Clonoulty Rossmore Macra as International Miss Macra 2014. Thanks you all for the opportunity, it has been absolutely fantastic meeting all of this year’s contestants. You’re a fantastic bunch of ladies and did yourselves and your Counties / Clubs proud. It therefore gives me great pleasure to pass on the coveted crown to Miss Susan Willis of Carlow Macra and I hope and trust that you have a brilliant year while promoting the Macra na Féirme gospel! Warmest congratulations to the overall winners and those taking part – winners all.”

Speaking at the Gala Banquet, Mr Donnacha Ryan (Festival Chairperson) stated that “Miss Brid Cooney’s past year, as 43rd International Miss Macra 2014, was one of total dedication in the promotion of Macra principals and Macra Clubs throughout the length and breadth of Ireland and abroad.”

Well known and popular Irish broadcaster, journalist and rugby union pundit Mr George Hook visited Thurles yesterday.

During his visit to StakeFest at Stakelums Home & Hardware premises on Racecourse Retail Park, Thurles, the former coach of London Irish, Connacht and the United States National Team of the 1987 Rugby World Cup era met up with members and supporters of Thurles Rugby Club.

(L-R pictured here above) are Colin O’Shaughnessy, Mary Telford, Larry Moloney, George Hook, Eddie Smyth, Shane Moloney, Barry Cagney, Christina Telford.

Following her success as a writer and actor, Tipperary and Upperhurch native Áine Ryan brings to the stage her eagerly awaited second play entitled ‘Templemore’.  This new exciting play will première first at the New Theatre, Dublin, from September 8th – 12th, as part of ‘Tiger Dublin Fringe 2015′.

Following on from ‘Tiger Dublin Fringe 2015′ the play ‘Templemore‘ is scheduled to take to the stage in ‘The Source’ Arts Centre, Thurles, Co. Tipperary on Friday, 2nd October 2015 starting at 8.00pm.

Áine Ryan – Writer/Actor

Áine holds a BA in ‘Theatre and Performance’ from Goldsmiths, University of London. Her first play ‘Kitty in the Lane’ achieved much critical acclaim and was been performed in venues in Ireland, the U.K and the U.S.A. She has completed ‘E20 Writers School’ with the BBC, a programme for emerging scriptwriters. As well as playing the title role in ‘Kitty in the Lane’, other recent theatre credits include ‘Sive’ in the Irish première of ‘Desolate Heaven’ by Ailís Ní Ríain , directed by Tony McCleane Fay at the Everyman Theatre, Cork. Also, ‘May in Angel Dust and Dallas’ by Paul Maher, directed by Amy Hill, a touring comedy production. Her Film Credits include ‘Susan’ in the short film ‘Spellbound’, directed by Sean Breathnach together with ‘Rachel’ in ‘Five Pillars’, latter directed by Jon Rosling.

As already stated, Áine Ryan achieved much critical acclaim for her first play ‘Kitty in the Lane’. Through her production company ‘Studio Perform‘, she showcased her prevailing talents both nationally and internationally with performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival (Belfast) and the San Francisco International Arts Festival.

‘Studio Perform‘ and Áine Ryan’s latest venture, ‘Templemore,’ is set in a small rural Tipperary town, home to the prominent Garda College. Her play follows three young Gardaí about to graduate, who take a break away from the training grounds one sunny afternoon. Ryan, along with Cork actor Irene Kelleher (Mrs Shakespeare, Game of Thrones) and Clare actor Mark Griffin (The Turn of the Screw), take the audience on a suspenseful sixty minute journey, where a series of seemingly unrelated events culminate in a sinister twist, resulting in tragedy, suspicion and many unanswered questions.

Áine Ryan takes on the role of Éadaoin in the première production of ‘Templemore’ and explains the inspiration behind her new play: “I grew up close to Templemore and I have always been fascinated by people who choose to uphold laws and regulations, such as Gardaí. With recruitment to the force open once again, I wanted to examine what personal reasons people might have for joining. In this play, three students choose to be rebels for the day and we get to observe if control of our heart can ever be dominated by our head.”

‘Tiger Dublin Fringe’ is a platform for a new generation of emerging theatre makers. From September 7th – 20th 2015 this annual curated arts festival will showcase the very best of Irish and International performing arts.

Janice de Bróithe, the director of ‘Templemore’, was eager to take on this project, noting: “One read through was enough to get me incredibly excited to get stuck into ‘Templemore’. The characters, the situation, the stakes involved, all ensure that this is one incredibly gripping play. I am thrilled to be working with Áine, Irene and Mark, all very talented actors with whom I have had a blast making the show. I am looking forward to seeing them explode into life at the New Theatre Dublin”.

Bookings: www.fringefest.com  [Tiger Dublin Fringe Box office: (from August 26): Ground floor at DIFF, 13 Lower Ormond Quay, Dublin 1. Tel: – 1850 374 643 (International Bookings +353 1 687 7976)]

For further information please contact:
Rachel Willoughby PRO at Tel: 086 8106690  Email rachelwillo@gmail.com
Áine Ryan Tel: 087 2506878  Email aineryan121@hotmail.com
Janice de Bróithe Tel: 086 0759166  Email janicedebroithe@gmail.com

“Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.”  Matthew 15:27.

The long promised provision of free GP care for Tipperary residents, aged over 70 years old, will begin from today.

This provision is understood to be the next step towards the present Government’s plans for its long promised Universal Healthcare and follows the recent controversial roll-out of free GP care for all children under 6 years, latter introduced last month.

These new introduced health measures will apply to more 35,000 people nationally who qualify as being 70 years of age and over and who do not currently hold a Medical or GP visiting card.

This new provision is expected to cost the state between €18 and €20 million per year. Same costs are therefore reasonable when taxpayers consider that €1,016,924 (Over One Million) in special allowances, (including €610,763 for public relations) was paid out to cover just 29 Labour /Fine Gael government ministers and TD’s; to boost that little-known ‘Special Secretarial Allowance’ (Click Here – it is a must read)  since the General Election of 2011 of which Tipperary TD’s, namely Mr Alan Kelly and Mr Tom Hayes, respectively, gleaned €89,269.00 (A.K. €9,000.00 for IT, Training & Public Relations) plus €18,581.00 (T.H. €7,933.00 for PR), which collectively amounts to €107,850.00, courtesy of Irish citizens generosity.

However on a positive note, both these health moves will be seen as an important step forward in achieving Universal Health Care; with the youngest and oldest in Irish society now able to access GP care without being charged.

Although the scheme will be observed as good news for Ireland’s elderly, those now eligible for free GP care, under this scheme, will not have access to Allied Health Care Professionals, e.g. Public Health Nurses and Physiotherapists.

For those who do not currently hold a Medical or GP visiting card and wish to Register Online click HERE.

It is with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Wednesday 5th August 2015) of Mrs Kitty Croke (née Kennedy), Ballyerk, Moyne, Thurles, Co. Tipperary

Mrs Croke passed away after a short illness (predeceased by her husband James and sister Mary) and is deeply regretted by her daughter Rosemary, son Geoffrey, grandchildren Sineád and Cathal, son-in-law Tom, sisters Brigid and Alice, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Arrangements

Mrs Croke’s earthly remains will repose at Egan’s Funeral Home, Dublin Road, Thurles on tomorrow Friday, (August 7th) from 5:00pm with removal at 7:00pm to St.Mary’s Church, Moyne, Thurles.

Requiem Mass will take place on Saturday at 11.30am, with burial afterwards in Moyne Cemetery.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

It is with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Wednesday 5th August 2015) of Thomas (Tom) Ryan, No 6 Bóthar Aluine, Moyne and late of Kylemakill, Moyne, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Mr Ryan passed away peacefully in the care of the staff of Milford Care Centre. His passing is deeply regretted by his wife Helen, brothers Bill and Martin, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Arrangements

Mr Ryan’s earthly remains will repose at Egan’s Funeral Home, Dublin Road, Thurles this evening (6th August) from 5:00pm to 7:00pm, with removal to St. Mary’s Church, Moyne, to arrive at 7.30pm.

Funeral Mass will take place on Friday, August 7th at 11.30am, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations if desired to Milford Care Centre, Limerick.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

All eyes will be on Co. Tipperary rider Greg Broderick this afternoon as the show jumper makes his Aga Khan debut, at the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show in the grounds of the Royal Dublin Society (RDS).

The 29 year old Thurles rider has been selected by manager Robert Splaine onto the Irish team for the Nations Cup, where he will partner with the nine year old MHS ‘Going Global'; a 2006 bay gelding by Quidam Junior I (KWPN) out of Gowran Lady (ISH), by Cavalier Royale (HOLST), latter owned by Caledonia Stables in Tipperary, and bred by Ita Brennan in Kilkenny.

Also selected on this team are riders Bertram Allen, Cian O’Connor and Darragh Kenny. This Irish team will be the first of the eight teams competing to take on the course.

Greg has enjoyed numerous previous successes at the RDS Dublin Horse Show over the past few years. Last year (2014) was no exception where he won the 4, 5 & 6 year old Horse Sport Ireland Young Horse classes, and was crowned the Show-jumping Ireland National Champion 2014, having won the overall title of the Horseware/TRM Premier Series again partnering with MHS ‘Going Global’, taking the title Leading Horse.

In July of this year (2015) on a wild card entry, Greg competed in his first ever Global Champions Tour in Cascais, Portugal, with MHS ‘Going Global’. Broderick, aboard Caledonia Stables’ nine year-old Kilkenny-bred gelding, delivered a perfect clear round in his first appearance at the Global Champions Tour event, being placed third on time behind the Saudi owned ‘Abdullah Alsharbatly’ and winner rider Scott Brash.

Greg and his family currently run a show-jumping performance, training and breeding business at Ballypatrick Stables, The Ragg, near Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

UPDATE 7/8/2015

Congratulations to the Irish team in winning its first Aga Khan Trophy for three years at the Dublin Horse Show at the RDS today. A double clear round from Thurles, Co. Tipperary born Greg Broderick, on his Aga Khan début, firmly anchored the four-man Irish team to ensure a comfortable Irish victory.

Miss Katriona Shanahan (PRO ‘Trip to Tipp Weekend of Cycling’) reports.

Join us here in Tipperary for the 20th Anniversary of the ‘Trip to Tipp Weekend of Cycling’, which will take place on the 15th & 16th August 2015, in aid of NCBI, working for people with sight loss.  This year, as part of the celebrations, ‘Trip to Tipp’ have made some changes to the routes and participants and supporters also will be able to purchase a Special Limited Edition ‘Trip to Tipp’ jersey.

‘Trip to Tipp’ Programme of Events.
Saturday 15th August
12:00 pm. The Three Counties Tour.
Here you can choose from either the 70 KM route or the slightly more challenging 100 KM route!
Both Routes depart from the Sarsfields GAA Centre Thurles at 12:00pm sharp.

Links to both the maps for Saturday’s Challenge
70km Route – http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/788239301
100km Route – http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/788238589

12:30pm. Family Fun Cycle.
The family fun cycle departs from the Sarsfields GAA Centre Thurles at 12:30pm sharp.
Here participants can register online or on the day – €12.50.

Sunday 16th August
9:45 am: Grand Tipperary Challenge 140 KM.
The Grand Tipperary Tour departs the Thurles Sarsfields GAA Centre at 9:45am. The two notable climbs on the 140km route will be Dolla and the Glen of Aherlow. View Route at http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/788241117

10:15 am: Glen of Aherlow Challenge 100 KM.

The Glen of Aherlow Challenge departs the Thurles Sarsfields GAA Centre at 10:15am. View Route at http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/788240341

10:15 am: Scenic Tour of Tipperary 80 KM.

The Scenic Tour of Tipperary departs the Thurles Sarsfields GAA Centre at 10:15am. View Route at http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/788242015
Once again entries for all cycles can be taken on the day, or you can avail of the online reduced price by registering at: http://www.active.com/thurles-munster/cycling/races/trip-to-tipp-2015

Note: Online registration closes on Friday 14th August at 6:00pm.
Online Special Offers are as follows:–
2 days cycling & Cycling Jersey – €65.  2 days cycling only – €45
1 day cycling & Cycling Jersey – €45.  1 days cycling – €25

Entry on the day for all routes is €30.00 with Family Fun Cycle €12.50 – (Special offers for Families).
All participants over the weekend will receive a ‘Goodie Bag’ and ‘Certificate of Completion’.

All routes will be marshalled and the roads will also be clearly marked. Each route will have a Water Stop and Food Stop.

Accommodation: For anyone seeking accommodation in Thurles for the weekend 15th & 16th August 2015, please note that special hotel rates have been secured from the following venues:-
Anner Hotel Thurles:- [(0504) 21799] B&B €45 pps. Hayes Hotel Thurles:- [(0504) 22122] B&B €35 pps.
In all bookings please reference ‘Trip to Tipp’ when securing accommodation.

To celebrate this 20th Anniversary Milestone, ‘Trip to Tipp’ are going to have a special night of entertainment, with spot prizes, in Hayes Hotel, Liberty Square, Thurles, Co Tipperary on Saturday 15th next.

For further information Email katriona.shanahan@gmail.com

It is with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Saturday 8th August 2015) of Mr Patrick Buckley, (formerly Gaile), Graigue, Horse and Jockey, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Predeceased by his sister Norrie; Mr Buckley’s passing is deeply regretted by his loving family: sons Michael and Pat, daughters Martina, Margaret and Noreen, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Arrangements

Mr Buckley’s earthly remains reposed at his residence today (Sunday, August 9th) from 5:00pm to 7.00pm and arrived at St. Peter’s Church, Moycarkey at 7.30pm this evening. Requiem Mass will take place tomorrow Monday at 11.30am. His burial will take place afterwards in Ballysheehan, Graveyard, Cashel, Co. Tipperary.

Note: Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, to Milford Hospice, Co Limerick.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

“School Ahead” – Picture taken yesterday on the outskirts of a rural village in Co. Tipperary. Same best depicts the destruction of rural Ireland, under a current Labour /Fine Gael led government. (NRA please take note.)

Viewing the latest unemployment figures, uploaded on line today (Monday August 10th 2015) by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), residents of Co. Tipperary, possibly, with the exception of our over paid politicians, are less likely to be “visiting the Bahamas to swim with pigs“ in the immediate future, as a current TV commercial currently invites.

Nationally the actual number of people currently unemployed in Ireland rose slightly during the month of July 2015, standing 300 higher than the seasonally adjusted figure for June at 208,900. Sadly the seasonally adjusted youth unemployment rate (persons aged 15-24) was 20.2% in July 2015; when compared to 19.9% in June 2015. Latter we understand was caused by a rise in the number nationally of unemployed females during the same month, which stood 500 higher at 81,200.

As we forewarned on Thurles.Info; here in Co. Tipperary some 251 extra persons joined our ever lengthening dole queues, despite continued political electioneered spin from our current Fine Gael & Labour government; no doubt assisted greatly by radio and newspaper journalists, happy to simply ‘copy and paste’ political press statements, without the slightest modicum of questioning as to the real facts.

In total, for just the three combined months of May, June and July 2015 a total of 1,086 Tipperary residents, represented under the CSO categories of ‘All Ages’ – ‘Both Sexes’ are now signing for unemployment benefit in the county as a whole; an increase of 251 within the last 31 days.

 June 30th – July 31st – North Tipperary and Associated Towns – 2015.
6,462 – 6,601 – North Tipperary, an overall increase of 139 persons.
2,635 – 2,658 – Nenagh, an increase of 23 persons.
1,187 – 1,246 – Roscrea, an increase of 59 persons.
2,640 – 2,697 – Thurles, an increase of 57 persons.

 June 30th– July 31st – South Tipperary and Associated Towns – 2015.
7,998 – 8,110 – South Tipperary, an increase of 112 persons.
1,145 – 1,164 – Cahir, an increase of 19 persons.
1,697 – 1,719 – Carrick-On-Suir, an increase of 22 persons.
1,025 – 1,063 – Cashel, an increase of 38 persons.
2,611 – 2,616 – Clonmel, an increase of 5 persons.
1,520 – 1,548– Tipperary (Town), an increase of 28 persons.

In July 2015, led by an Taoiseach Mr Enda Kenny (F.G.) and accompanied by Labour Minister Mr Alan Kelly, Mr Tom Hayes F.G. and F.G. Jobs Minister Mr Richard Bruton, latter politicians trotting into Tipperary South, to the town of Cahir, here to announce 152 imaginary jobs and a €50m Investment at ABP Food Group, which jobs so far to-date have failed to materialize.

The same political spin, on August 1st 2015, informed us of some 300 new jobs being created; supported by the IDA, in Cashel in Co Tipperary, by US generic drugs giant Amneal Pharmaceuticals, latter who purchased the former long idle Johnson and Johnson plant on the Cahir Road. In two years time following renovations Amneal expect to hire an estimated 250-300 employees, but only when the facility is at full capacity. Minister Richard Bruton F.G. described these latter futuristic jobs as being a massive boost for Cashel and the whole of Tipperary, capping what has been a good month for regional jobs announcements.

To add to today’s published CSO unemployment figures; during this same period (May 1st to July 31st 2015) at least 373 unemployed persons here in Co. Tipperary have already been moved off the Unemployment Register to work on Tús schemes (See Pay Rates of €1 per hour) and therefore not correctly categorised as being unemployed persons. A more accurate figure for unemployment in Tipperary during this same 3 month 2015 period should therefore read approximately 1459.

This latter figure does not take into account those other unemployed persons who chose to accept emigration. Neither does it take into account those who could not afford to leave this country and have since become members of that well known unpaid Internship Club known as ‘JobBridge'; latter which continues to remain unmonitored, offering poor conditions and little if any insurance cover through its forced membership.

Meanwhile, last week the drinks giant C&C announced the potential loss of 31 jobs, through redundancies, from its production workforce at Borrisoleigh, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Wright: It is with great sadness we learned of the death on Saturday last (8th August 2015) of Mr Michael (Mickey) Wright, Hazelwood Grove, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Mr Wright, formerly of Littleton and Manchester, passed away, deeply regretted by his sons, daughters, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and extended family.

Funeral Arrangements
Mr Wright’s earthly remains will repose at Egan’s Funeral’s Home, Thurles, today Tuesday (11th August 2015) from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with removal at 7.30pm to St. Kevin’s Church, Littleton. Requiem Mass will take place on Wednesday at 11.30am, followed by private cremation.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

 McGrath: It is also with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Monday 10th August 2015) of Mrs Peggy (Margaret) McGrath (née Ryan), Malahide, Dublin / Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Mrs McGrath, formerly of Thurles, Co. Tipperary, passed away peacefully in the wonderful care of the staff of Tara Winthrop Nursing Home. Loving wife of the late Edward and mother of the late Agnes (O`Leary)  Mrs McGrath will be very sadly missed by her son Denis, daughter Mary, sons-in-law Terence and P.J., grandchildren Alan, Cillian, Terryann, Catraoine, Amy and Andrew, great-grandchildren Neil, Chloe, Scott and Eve, her sister Kathleen, sister-in-law Breda, nieces and nephews, extended family and friends.

Funeral Arrangements
Mrs McGrath’s earthly remains will repose on Wednesday afternoon at Stafford`s Funeral Home, Strand Road, Portmarnock, from 4:00pm until 5:00pm before her removal that evening to St. Sylvester’s Church, Malahide, arriving for 5:30pm.

Funeral Mass will take place on Thursday morning at 10:00am, followed immediately thereafter by burial in Fingal Cemetery.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

Gilmartin: It is also with great sadness we learned of the death yesterday (Monday 10th August 2015) of Mrs Mary Gilmartin (née Quinlivan), Churchquarter, Kilcommon, Thurles, Co. Tipperary.

Mrs Gilmartin formerly of Annaholty, Birdhill passed away peacefully at University hospital Limerick. Sadly missed by her loving husband Patrick, daughter Nuala, son D.J., son in law Garrett, grandchildren Ciara, Connor and Donal, brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Funeral Arrangements
Mrs Gilmartin’s earthly remains will repose at Meehan’s Funeral Home, Newport, today (Tuesday 11th August) from 6:00pm to 8:00pm, with removal afterwards to Kilcommon Church. Requiem Mass on Wednesday 12th at 11.30am, with burial afterwards in the New Cemetery, Kilcommon.

Go ndéana Dia trócaire ar a anam dílis.

 Which Irish county grows the best potatoes?

Supposedly first discovered by the Spaniards back in the 16th Century, and understood to have been eaten by the Peruvians some 2,000 years previously, our humble potato is still, by far, the most popular of all consumed vegetables. This versatile tuber can be boiled, chipped, steamed, baked, roasted and sautéed.

However according to An Bord Bia which held its All Ireland Quality Potato Championships recently, not surprisingly the winning county was identified as; yes you have guessed correctly, Co. Tipperary.

Last weekend at the Tullamore Show in Co Offaly, latter which is attended by some 60,000 people annually, potato grower Mr David Curran from Fethard, Co. Tipperary was crowned All Ireland Champion and quality spud producer.

According to An Bord Bia, this annual competition is designed not just to increase the level of awareness among growers, but to highlight what actually constitutes a top quality potato.

According to a survey taken by MyHome.ie, the kingdom of Co. Kerry is Ireland’s favourite domestic holiday destination. This is the third time in a row that Kerry has topped this particular poll with 24.5% of voters highlighting it as their favourite county for a break.

Co. Galway gallops home in second place, polling 17%, while Cork arrives in third place with 14% of the poll. While Wexford was the only other county to hit double digits; counties Clare, Donegal, Mayo, Dublin, Wicklow, Kilkenny and Waterford rounded off the remaining surveyed Top 10.

With more than 5,200 people taking part in this survey of Irish holidaymakers Co. Tipperary, which receives little or no tourism marketing budget share, received just 1% of the vote in this survey undertaken. While only a brief survey, nevertheless Tipperary did outrank counties Leitrim (0.8%), Louth (0.7%), Kildare & Meath (0.3%), Cavan & Offaly, Armagh, Laois, Fermanagh, Limerick and Westmeath (latter 7 counties all receiving 0.17%).

Dublin despite millions of Euro being spent from our national tourism budget annually, to attract attention, received just 3% of the vote in this same survey. Regrettably counties Carlow, Derry, Down, Longford, Roscommon, Monaghan and Tyrone failed to attract even one single vote.

While Tipperary is only in joint 12th position with Co Antrim, it is however easy to see why we fails to attract a better and indeed deserved percentage vote in this survey. We now invite our readers to view the website launched in September 2014, by the current Tipperary Minister for Environment, Community & Local Government Mr Alan Kelly.  Next click HERE to view “Top Sights within an hour of Lough Derg”. Do you see Thurles or any of its superb local attractions get a mention?  No, I regret to say, only attractions which have had large sums of government money pumped into them by the Bord of Works and National Monuments are highlighted and recommended, the nearest some 5 miles away.

Note also the Lough Derg website fails to shows Links. For those of you not familiar with website Link Building, same is the process of acquiring and sharing hyperlinks (Links) from other websites to your own, thus offering a way for all users to navigate between pages on the internet and in doing so grant surfers a greater overview of all that our Premier County has to offer the visitor. Latter linking failure appears to be part of present overall tourism policy, but to the detriment of our tourist economy nationally.

Hyperlinks (Links) are a number one essential on all tourism websites if we are to truly compete, network and sell online.

Full-time score: Tipperary 3-16 (25pts) – Galway 0-26

No doubt whatsoever, it was the hurling game of the summer of 2015; an epic game that will be talked about for many years into the future; it was of course Tipperary v Galway at Croke Park today August 16th 2015.

The game was spellbinding to watch; demonstrating courage and much resilience from Galway, with ‘Man of the Match’ deservedly going to Seamus Callanan on the losing Tipperary team, having personally scored 3-09 (18pts).

The lead between the rivals changed hands many times, drawing level on some 10 different occasions and one could argue that a replay would have been perhaps the fairest outcome on the day. However following the final result; the question now remains can Galway end a 27-year drought and take the Liam MacCarthy Cup west of the Shannon River, when they meet on Sunday September 6th next, in the final of the 2015 All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship?

First Half  (38 min)
It took just 40 seconds, in the opening half, for Seamus Callanan to rifle the ball past Galway goalkeeper Colm Callanan for a goal (3pts) and six minutes for Galway to reply with a free taken by Joe Canning.  In the 16th minute Galway win a penalty, but to no avail, due to the brilliance of a save made by Tipperary goalkeeper Darren Gleeson and which would not be his last on the day.

From then on it was a first half game of points from Galway’s Jason Flynn, Joe Canning, Cathal Mannion, Andy Smyth, C. Whelan and David Burke  answered by Tipperary’s Seamus Callanan, Jason Forde, John ‘Bubbles’ O’Dwyer, Seamus Callanan and Brendan Maher; all leading to a half-time scoreboard which read Tipperary 1-09 (12pts) – Galway 0-13.

Second Half
In the fortieth minute Seamus Callanan gets his second goal; and add a third just 13 minutes later, but same gets slowly whittled away by points from determined hungry Galway’s players namely; Canning, Whelan and Jason Flynn with an almost tit-for-tat thrilling tie thus ensuing.

As the sides went deep into injury-time without either taking the lead for long, it looked like parity might be the outright winner today. However right at the death, Galway’s Joe Canning found sub S. Maloney with a diagonal pass, leaving him to slip away and past Tipperary’s Cathal Barrett, to fire over the eventual winning single point.

Best of luck to Galway who now go forward against Kilkenny in the final.

Tipperary Team: D. Gleeson, C. Barrett, J. Barry, C. O’Brien, R. Maher, Padraic Maher, K. Bergin, J. Woodlock, S. McGrath, J. Forde (0-01), B. Maher (0-01), Patrick Maher (0-01), N. O’Meara, S. Callanan (3-09 [18pts]), J. O’Dwyer (0-02).

Subs: Shane Bourke for J.Forde; Lar Corbett for S. McGrath;, N. McGrath for S.Bourke, C. O’Mahony for J. Woodlock and M. Breen for R. Maher.

Referee: B Kelly (Westmeath).