Tuesday 17th May
Heritage Keepers
Bere Island Projects Group are one of the groups who have been taking part in the Burren Beo Trust’s Heritage Keepers Programme. A group of 7 from Bere Island undertook the online training programme and have decided to base their project on recording an oral history of Bere Island. A leading oral history expert, Dr Angela Maye-Banbury will be on Bere Island over the weekend of May 28th and 29th, to hold an oral history workshop and will facilitate a public meeting on Saturday May 28th at 7.30pm at the Heritage Centre to outline the plans for the project, all are welcome to attend. For further details contact Helen on 027 75099.
Beara Historical Society
The next talk organised by the Beara Historical Society is titled Retrospection and Memories and will be given by Con O’Sullivan Durrihy, a retired secondary teacher from Lauragh. Con started teaching in the Convent of Mercy, Castletownbere in 1964 when the school became the first “Co-Ed” school in Ireland with girls and boys sitting alongside one another. He taught Latin, Irish, English and History, but as well as being a top class tutor Con was considered by his students to be a philosopher of sorts and was regarded as being ahead of his time in many ways. In 1980 he moved to the new Scoil Phobal Bhéarra when the Castletownbere schools were amalgamated. The talk will take place on Tuesday May 24th at 8pm in St Peter’s Church, Castletownbere. All are welcome to attend, there will be a cover charge of €5 for non-society members.
Michael Dwyer
The Michael Dwyer Festival will return to Allihies this summer, taking place from Friday June 10th to Sunday June 12th. A full programme is available on the Michael Dwyer Festival Facebook page.
Fundraising
A fundraising night in memory of the late Karyn O’Donoghue and to raise funds for the air ambulance, and Cork University ICU and family room will take place on Saturday May 28th at O’Donoghues Bar, Castletownbere. For further details see the O’Donoghue’s Bar Facebook page.
Comhar
Comhar na Oilean are coordinating housing for Ukrainian refugees on the West Cork Islands. If you have a house you would like to make available please contact Jude Gilbert at jude@oileain.ie
Bill Griffin
Beara based artist Bill Griffin will launch his new exhibition on Thursday May the 26th at 6.30pm at the Unitarian Church, Princes Street, Cork.
Bantry and District Cardiac Support Group
The next meeting of the Bantry and District Cardiac Support Group will take place on Tuesday May 24th at 8.00pm at Bantry Christian Fellowship Church, Tower Street, Bantry. Blood pressure monitoring will take place ahead of the meeting at 7.30pm. The meeting is open to all those in the Beara and Bantry areas who have suffered any cardiac event or had any cardiac surgery. For details contact Sarah on 087 3186443 or John 086 4048821.
Sylvie Moriarty RIP
We offer our sincere sympathy to the family of Sylvie Moriarty, St Albans, Hertfordshire, UK and Cloughland, Bere Island. May He Rest in Peace.
Monday 11th April
SVP Beara
To assist any Beara households, SVP Beara has a temporary arrangement with several energy providers to help with large bills. For further details contact SVP Beara on 083 356 1132.
Darkness into Light
The Castletownbere Darkness into Light Walk will take place on Saturday May 7th, following a two year break due to Covid restrictions. The event will follow a new route this year, starting at the Beara Coast Hotel. Those participating are asked to park at the Bakery Square, and near the playground. The walk will leave from the Beara Coast Hotel heading to Murphy’s Restaurant, around the back of Harrington’s, back up the town around the Tallon Road via Droum and returning to the Beara Coast for tea and scones (which will be served outside). For further details and to register see www.darknessintolight.ie – all funds raised will go towards supporting the work of Pieta.
Beara Ladies Football
Beara Ladies Football have now returned to training on the pitch behind the secondary school. For further information and details of training times contact Sandra on 087 2927534.
Marie Keating Foundation
The Marie Keating Foundation Mobile Unit will be visiting Castletownbere on Wednesday April 20th from 11am to 3pm. Their mission is to make “cancer less frightening by enlightening”. They provide free information about cancer and promote awareness and heathy lifestyle choices that reduce the risk of cancer to both men and women across Ireland. Nurses are available to talk to anyone in a private area on board the unit about any concerns they may have about cancer, either for themselves or for someone else such as a family member or friend.
SUSI
The Student Universal Support Scheme Ireland will be holding its first virtual information event on Saturday April the 23rd from 11.00am. Anyone is starting college in the 2022 / 2023 academic year is welcome to join the session to find out all you need to know on how to make a grant application. To register email events@susi.ie
RIP
We offer our sympathy to the family of Eileen Orpen, wife of Mick Orpen (Bere Island) who died on April 11th. May She Rest in Peace.
We offer our sympathy to the family of Josie Sullivan (nee Hanley) Bere Island who died on 29th March. May She Rest in Peace.
We offer our sympathy to the family of Mary O’Sullivan (nee Murphy) Bere Island who died on 24th March. May She Rest in Peace.
Monday 21st March
Beara Ukraine Meeting
A community meeting to discuss support that can be given to Ukrainian families will be on Monday March 28th at 7pm in Scoil An Chroi Ro Naofa, Castletownbere. Volunteers will be needed to help with translation and conversational English, family befriending and transport support. All are welcome to attend. For further information contact 027 70998.
Bere Island Women Create
A fundraising coffee morning held last Sunday by Bere Island Women Create in aid of those affected by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has raised €2,724.75 The organisers extended their thanks to all those who supported the event by donating baking and raffle prizes and who came along on the day.
Beara Ladies Football
Beara Ladies Football will be returning to training on Tuesday March the 29th on the pitch behind the secondary school. For further information and details for training times contact Sandra on 087 2927534.
Monday 14th March
Bere Island Women Create
Island arts group, Bere Island Women Create will hold a fundraising coffee morning for Ukraine on Sunday March 20th from 11am to 1pm in the dining room at The Hotel. There will be a raffle, including a food hamper and many other great prizes. Raffle tickets can be bought in advance from The Hotel and Murphy’s shop.
Beara lorry bound for Ukraine
A lorry which is due to leave Castletownbere with supplies for Ukraine is now full. The lorry, which will be driven by Jason Quirke, is due to leave on St Patrick’s Day, and will feature in the Castletownbere St Patrick’s Day parade as it departs Beara on route for Warsaw on a 5000km round trip. An iDonate page for the Beara Ukraine Relief Fund is still accepting donations. To make a donation see: www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/bearaukraine relief fund
RNLI
Castletownbere RNLI lifeboat came to the assistance of an injured crewman onboard the naval vessel the LE George Bernard Shaw last Wednesday, March 9th
The crewman had become injured during exercises. The naval vessel, which was anchored off Lawrence Cove Bere Island requested assistance and the lifeboat was launched. The casualty was transferred to the lifeboat by stretcher and taken to Castletownbere where he was met by paramedics from the national ambulance service.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Hello, How Are You? is a campaign about connection and engaging in open conversations about mental health. The campaign asks individuals, communities, workplaces, friends and family to say ‘Hello’ and ask the question ‘How Are You?’ in a meaningful way. Beara West Family Resource Centre will be holding a coffee afternoon on Thursday April 7th and an Active Listening Workshop that evening to mark the ‘Hello, How Are You?’ campaign. Anyone who would like to get involved or is interested in attending either event, can contact Moira at 086 022 3398 or the Centre at 027 70998.
Monday 7th March
Fudraising for Ukraine
A fundraising initiative in Castletownbere in aid of Ukraine it sending a lorry load of supplies to Poland. For further information and to make a donation click here
Bere Island Projects Group
Bere Island Projects Group have been awarded funding from the Heritage Council’s Heritage Capacity Fund to undertake a number of actions on the Bere Island Conservation Plan during 2022. The Conservation Plan was first launched in 2003 following partnership with Bere Island Projects Group, the island community and the Heritage Council.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre provides information, advice and support to families, individuals and groups in the local community. The service is accessible to all and staff can also provide access to local affordable counselling. English classes have resumed at the centre, for further details call 027 70998.
Monday 21st February
St Patricks Day Parade
The Castletownbere Development Association are delighted that they will once again be able to hold the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade on Thursday March 17th. Any individuals, groups or organisations who would like to take part in the parade are asked to contact Anne Marie Cronin on 087 2386068 to register their entry
Community Walks
The Bere Island community walking group has restarted again and meets on Wednesdays at 7.30pm at the community centre. The walks are open to all abilities and those taking part are asked to wear a high vis and bring a torch.
The Caha Centre
Through its Cuisle Project, the Caha Centre recognises that some older people in the community may be facing a difficult time, challenged by the normal ageing process and perhaps the onset of dementia or other health issues. The centre will be holding a number of different supportive and social events over the coming year. The first event is a series of workshops for all family carers, anyone who cares for a family member regardless of their age, full time or part-time are welcome to attend. The workshops will be delivered by a healthcare tutor with a nursing background and the workshops are centred around the needs of the carer. For further details of dates and to book a place contact Julie on 087 9144427 or at Julie.thecahacentre@gmail.com.
Monday 14th February
Community Walks
The Bere Island community walking group has restarted again and meets on Wednesdays at 7.30pm at the community centre. The walks are open to all abilities and those taking part are asked to wear a high vis and bring a torch.
All Islands Football Competition
The All Islands Football Competition will be held on Bere Island over the weekend of May 21st 2022. There is a high level of demand for accommodation from players and supporters. If anyone has, or knows of accommodation available please contact Barry Hanley at bereislandholidayhomes@gmail.com
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre will host a chat and connect event on Thursday February 17th on All you need to know about Dementia, how not to get it and how to live through it. The evening will be facilitated by Dr Ray O’Neill who is assistant professor in psychotherapy in DCU and a contributor to the Ray D’Arcy show and Kate Irving, a Professor of Nursing in DCU. Kate has been caring for people with dementia, researching dementia and looking after family members with dementia for over 20 years. The evening will start at 7pm and take place at Scoil an Chroi Ro Naofa.
Sheep Meeting
The Ouvane Falls Hotel, Ballylickey is the place to be for all sheep farmers on Tuesday February 22nd, at 8.30pm. A meeting, which is the first of its kind for some time due to Covid, has been organised to get the most up-to date information to all sheep farmers, be they farming on the hills or in the lowlands. They can expect to hear the latest on CAP reform, market prospects for sheep, new veterinary rules and sheep health issues. Among the speakers will be Michael Gottstein, Veterinary Surgeon and Stephen O’Sullivan of Teagasc. Also taking part will be Tomás Bourke, IFA Livestock Executive as well as the National Chairpersons of both the IFA Sheep and Hill Farming Committees. In previous years, this meeting in Ballylickey has been seen by sheep farmers as an excellent means of obtaining the latest information for their business. Non-sheep farmers have also found the meeting to be an interesting event. All are welcome.
Monday 7th February
Community Walks
The Bere Island community walking group has restarted again and meets on Wednesdays at 7.30pm at the community centre. The walks are open to all abilities and those taking part are asked to wear a high vis and bring a torch.
IFA Meeting
The IFA will hold a meeting for all sheep farmers in Ouvane, Ballylickey on Tuesday February 22nd at 8pm.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre will host a chat and connect event on Thursday February 17th, on All you need to know about Dementia, how not to get it and how to live through it. The evening will be facilitated by Dr Ray O’Neill who is assistant professor in psychotherapy in DCU and a contributor to the Ray D’Arcy show and Kate Irving, a Professor of Nursing in DCU. Kate has been caring for people with dementia, researching dementia and looking after family members with dementia for over 20 years. The evening will start at 7pm and take place at Scoil an Chroi Ro Naofa.
Monday 31st January
Margaret Murphy RIP
We extend our sincere sympathy to the family of Margaret Murphy, Bere Island who was laid to rest at the weekend. May She Rest in Peace
Samso Energy Academy
The Bere Island Sustainable Energy Community are hosting a visit to Bere Island by the Samso Energy Academy this week. A public meeting will be held on Tuesday February 1st at 7.30pm in the Hotel. All are welcome to attend. The Samso Energy Academy is a is a non-profit organisation on the island of Samso in Denmark and has been instrumental in engaging their island community to participate and drive Samso’s transition to clean energy. For further details on the visit contact the Bere Island Sustainable Energy Community group on bereislandenergy@gmail.com
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre will hold an introduction to Art course starting on Monday February the 7th. Classes will run from 10am to 1pm. The course is aimed at those who have little or no artistic background, and participants will explore their creativity using various drawing and painting techniques. The centre also has a number of other courses running at the moment. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Youth Theatre Group
Castletownbere Youth Theatre will hold taster workshops for 10-12 year olds on Saturday January the 29th and Saturday February 5th the from 2.00-.3.30pm on each day at Beara Fitness. The price is €15 per person for further information and to book contact Shirley on 087 1234954 or Maria on 087 9141206. The project is supported by NYCI Spark Youth Arts Group.
Monday 24th January
White Goods Collection
The annual Bere Island white goods collection takes place on Monday January 31st. Anything with a plug or a battery should be dropped to the recycling centre before that date.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre will hold an introduction to Art course starting on Monday February 7th. Classes will run from 10am to 1pm. The course is aimed at those who have little or no artistic background, and participants will explore their creativity using various drawing and painting techniques. The centre also has a number of other courses running at the moment. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre provides information, advice and support to families, individuals and groups in the local community
The centre will be running an 8-week Parents Plus Adolescents Programme starting on Thursday February 3rd from 4.00pm to 6.00pm. The course is open to all parents and carers of teenagers in the Beara area, will cost €15 and payment plans are an option. For further information or to reserve a place please contact Trudy McQuaid or Claire Kelleher at the Centre on 027 70998 or drop an email to info@bearawestfrc.ie
For the moment, the centre’s Family Learning Group is taking the format of Social Buggy Walks. The group meets at the Circle K petrol station at the edge of Castletownbere on Thursday mornings at 10.30am and walk to Dinish Island and back. To register an interest, phone Claire Kelleher at 083 1599 748.
Monday 17th January
Ashling Murphy RIP
On behalf of the community of Bere Island we extend our sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Ashling Murphy, Tullamore, Co Offaly. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis
Martin O’Neill RIP
Sympathy is extended to the family of Martin O’Neill, Castletownbere and Bere Island.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a number of courses starting this month which will include computer courses for all levels, an introduction to ceramics, English language classes, office skills, gardening, Irish classes, and bookkeeping and accounts . For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Aidan Cremin Anniversary Mass
A first anniversary Mass for Garda Aidan Cremin will take place on Wednesday January 19th at 7.30pm at Adrigole Church.
Monday 10th January
BIPG Office
The Bere Island Projects Group office has now reopened following the Christmas break. The office is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and staff can be contacted on 027 75099.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a number of courses starting this month which will include computer courses for all levels, an introduction to ceramics, English language classes, office skills, gardening, Irish classes, and bookkeeping and accounts . For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Youth Theatre
Young people aged between 12 – 18 who are interested in getting involved in Youth Theatre are invited to a meeting on Friday January 14th from 6.00pm to 8.00pm at Beara Fitness. For further information contact Shirley on 087 1234954 or Maria on 087 9141206.
Engagement
Congratulations are extended to Margaret Denneny and Luke who announced their engagement over Christmas.
New Baby
Congratulations are extended to Aaron Hanley and Lorna Crowley on the birth of their son, Austin Denis.
2021 News
Tuesday 14th December
BIPG Office
The Bere Island Projects Group office will close for Christmas on Wednesday December 22nd and will reopen on Thursday January 6th.
Christmas Newsletter
The 2021 Bere Island Christmas Newsletter which is produced by Bere Island Projects Group is now on sale in Murphy’s Shop Rerrin and Supervalu Castletownbere priced €5.
Heritage Council Lego
The Heritage Council are holding a lego competition based on the built, natural and cultural heritage of Ireland. The competition is open to all children aged 4 to 12 years, who are invited to use their lego skills to build an object on based on one of the main themes of the competition. The closing date for all entries is January 2nd 2022, and the winners will receive Lego kits and will have their entries showcased online. For further details on how to enter see www.heritagecouncil.ie
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a number of courses starting in January 2022 which will include computer courses for all levels, an introduction to ceramics, English language classes, office skills, gardening, Irish classes, and bookkeeping and accounts. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
The centre’s Bantry branch is holding a free, eight week online course – Marketing Your Small Business in Today’s World. The course will show business owners how to spot opportunities and make their business stand out from the crowd, how to develop their brand in an online world, creating a compelling communication plan and an overview on blogging, online advertising and email marketing. Classes will be held online on Tuesday evenings from 6.30pm to 8.30pm commencing in mid January 2022.
Bantry and District Cardiac Support Group
The Bantry Cardiac Support Group held their last monthly meeting in January 2020, none have taken place since then due to Covid-19 restrictions. The group had hoped to hold a meeting in November along with their annual social evening in December, however, with rising Covid numbers and following NPHET and Government advice it was decided to cancel both events. The group are hoping to see some local services resume in January 2022 and have planned a meeting Tuesday January 25th. The group is open to all those in the Bantry and Beara areas who may have suffered a cardiac event. For further information contact bantrycardiacgroup@gmail.com or John 0864048821
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre provide information, advice and support to families, individuals and groups in the local community. They work with a number of different agencies to support people in reaching their goals or to resolve issues they may be experiencing. The centre can also provide access to low-cost counselling. There is someone in the office Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and, for the moment, appointments must be prearranged and are held in line with national Covid-19 guidelines. For details contact 027 70998. The Beara West Family Resource Centre will close for the Christmas break at 5pm on Wednesday December 22nd and will reopen at 9am on Wednesday January 5th. The team at the Centre wish everyone a peaceful Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Tuesday 7th December
Christmas Newsletter
The 2021 Bere Island Christmas Newsletter which is produced by Bere Island Projects Group will be on sale from tomorrow in Murphy’s Shop Rerrin and Supervalu Castletownbere priced €5.
Parent and Toddler
The Parent and Toddler Group meet every Friday morning from 10.30am to 12pm at the community centre. All are welcome to attend and all Covid-19 regulations will be followed.
SVP Beara
SVP Beara will hold their Christmas church gate collection on the weekend of December the 11th and the 12th. All money collected will be spent in the local area. Anyone who may require assistance from SVP Beara, or knows of someone who does is asked to contact 083 356 1132 in strictest confidence.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a number of courses starting in January 2022 which will include computer courses for all levels, an introduction to ceramics, English language classes, office skills, gardening, Irish classes, bookkeeping and accounts and wellness courses. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Fundraising Calendar
The ‘This is Beara’ calendar 2022 in memory of the late John Eagle is now on sale in local shops throughout Beara. Priced €15, all proceeds will go to St Joseph’s Community Hospital, Castletownbere and Cancer Connect.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre offer pre-arranged appointments to anyone who would like to come and chat with them about anything such as family concerns, navigating social services, and seeking counselling support. All appointments are held in confidence and in line with national Covid-19 guidelines. To make an appointment or for further information contact 027 70998. The centre is currently welcoming volunteers to partake in their Care Ring phone service. Social phonecalls are made regularly to older people in the community keeping them in touch; and helping them to overcome feelings of loneliness. Anyone who is interested in volunteering or would like more information on the role, please contact Moira on 086 856 0319 or on 027 70998.
Monday 29th November
SVP Beara Church Gate Collection
SVP Beara will hold their annual Christmas church gate collection on the weekend of 11th and 12th December. All money collected will be spent in the local area. If anyone requires assistance or knows of someone how may do they can contact 083 3561132 in strictest confidence.
Christmas in Castletownbere
The Castletownbere Development Association will host a Christmas market at St Peter’s Church on Sunday December the 5th from 11.00am to 3.00pm. Anyone who would like to pitch a stall in the grounds of St Peters is asked to text Sandra on 087 2927534. The town Christmas lights will also be switched on the same evening.
Mens Group
It is hoped to set up a Men’s group in Beara. To discuss this further, an evening of storytelling with Teddy Black will take place on Wednesday December 8th at the Beara West Family Resource Centre. To book a place contact Claire Kelleher at 083 1599748 or by email on info@bearawestfrc.ie
Beara Film Fest
Submissions are now open for the 2022 Beara Film Fest. The festival is open to all directors who are living in or from Cork. Films must have been filmed from January the 1st 2019 and must have been filmed in the county of Cork. They should be a maximum of 25 minutes in duration and in the English language, or subtitled if filmed in Irish or a European language. All films should be submitted in MP4 format via WeTransfer or Vimeo (download enabled) to bearafilmfest@gmail.com The closing date for all submissions is 5pm on February 25th2022.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a a number computer classes for all levels starting in January 2022. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre look forward to welcoming mental health expert Ray O’Neill to a Chat and Connect evening at the centre on Thursday December the 2nd at 7pm. In light of the current Covid-19 situation this event will now take place online on Zoom. Ray will facilitate a talk about the challenges some may face in the run up to Christmas and will be sharing thoughts on how to mind wellbeing at Christmas time.
As part of their Winter Wellness Programme, the centre will be sending out a wellness pack each Thursday for people recently retired and older. The pack will contain information on getting through the winter includingnutritious recipes, positive wellbeing activities and general tips to stay healthy and connected. For further details contact Moira on 086 8560319.
The centre’s Family Learning Group get together on Thursday mornings. Parents and children are welcome to come along for singing, story-time and a range of activities. Anyone who is interested in joining the sessions is asked to contact Claire Kelleher on 083 1599748 to pre-book a space.
The centre provides a number of services for older people in the community. Hot meals are delivered every Thursday at a cost of €5 each. Senior Alert Scheme alarms can be ordered, the service is free for the first year and €66 each year thereafter. For details contact Moira at 086 856 0319. The centre is currently looking for volunteers to help with their Care Ring Service. Care Ring aims to reduce feelings of social isolation and loneliness in older people by making regular social phone calls. Anyone who is interested in volunteering, or would like more information on the role, is asked to contact Moira on 086 856 0319 or on 027 70998.
The Centre can also offer confidential, individual, and family support across a wide range of areas. They can assist with finding and navigating the right community services for the individual and can provide access to low-cost counselling through their links with a number of local counsellors and therapists. They also offer admin support with tasks like completing application forms such as housing support, medical card and much more. Appointments are held in line with National Covid guidelines and must be pre-arranged by calling 027 70998.
Monday 22nd November
Baby News
Congratulations are extended to Fiona Harrington and Dwayne Rodgers on the birth of their baby boy.
Christmas farmers market
A Festive Market will take place at the Bere Island Hotel on Sunday November 28th from 12.00pm to 2.00pm. Ferries will leave Castletownbere at 11.30am and 12.30pm, returning at 2.00pm. Transport will be provided to and from the Hotel.
Islands Youth Foruum
Comhdhail Oilean na hEireann is asking young islanders around the coast to take part in an islands youth forum. Any young person living on an island who is interested in having their say on issues affecting islands and islanders is asked to eamail comhdhail oilean na heireann @gmail.com by 5pm on Wednesday November 24th. A letter of permission from a parent or guardian is needed for anyone aged under 18.
Castletownbere Development Association
The Castletownbere Development Association have confirmed the dates for a number of Christmas events taking place in the town. On Sunday December 5th a Christmas market will take place in St Peter’s Church, and the town Christmas lights will also be switched on the same evening. On Sunday December 12th a drive through Santa visit will take place at the pier side of St Peter’s Gardens. To book a spot, text 086 8959321 with your name, car registration, child’s name, gender and age. The cost is €7 and bookings will be taken up until Monday December 6th. The annual St Stephen’s Day Treasure Hunt challenge will take place on Sunday December 26th.
Active Retirement Group
The Bere Island Active Retirement Group will hold a Chrismtas shopping trip to Ballincolling and Cork on Thursday November 25th. To book a place contact Tim on 027 75099.
Mens Group
It is hoped to set up a Men’s group in Beara. To discuss this further, an evening of storytelling with Teddy Black will take place on Wednesday December 8th at the Beara West Family Resource Centre offices at Unit 4 The Courtyard, Castletownbere. Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be provided. To book a place contact Claire Kelleher at 083 1599748 or by email on info@bearawestfrc.ie
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre has a a number of short courses running throughout November. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Sewerage Scheme
The Castletownbere Sewerage scheme is entering its final stage of commissioning this coming week. To accommodate this, the turning of existing flows to the new scheme will start from Monday November 22nd. A night shift will be required to accommodate this to undertake work on some manholes near Supervalu during low tides. A traffic management system will be in place while this work is being carried out. The completion of the turning of existing flows will signal an end to raw sewage entering the bay.
Tuosist Parish News
The 2021 Tuosist Parish Newsletter was launched this weekend and is available in shops throughout the local area or from www.tuosistnews.ie
Beara West Family Resource Centre
As part of their Winter Wellness programme, the Beara West Family Resource Centre look forward to welcoming mental health expert Ray O’Neill to a Chat and Connect evening at the centre on Thursday December 2nd at 7pm. Ray will be facilitating a talk about the challenges some may face in the run up to Christmas and will be sharing thoughts on how to mind wellbeing at Christmas time.
The centre will be sending out a wellness pack each Thursday for people recently retired and older. The pack will contain information on getting through the winter including nutritious recipes, positive wellbeing activities and general tips to stay healthy and connected. For further details contact Moira on 086 8560319.
English Language Classes have resumed on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings. A free and fun Family Learning Group has resumed on Thursday mornings, parents, babies, toddlers and school children are all welcome for singing, story-time and activities. The programme will help parents support their children to develop, learn and thrive. For further information on the English language classes and the Family Learning Group contact Claire Kelleher at 083 1599 748 to register.
The centre offers confidential, individual and family support across a wide range of areas. They can provide access to low-cost counselling through their links with a number of local counsellors and therapists and offer administrative support with tasks such as completing application forms for housing support, medical cards and more. All appointments are held in line with National Covid guidelines and must be pre-arranged for further details contact 027 70998.
The centre’s services for older people in the community include delivering meals on Thursdays, providing a Care Ring service whereby the team make social phone calls to people living alone, and linking people in with the Senior Alert Scheme of personal alarms. For information on any of these services the Project Worker for Older People, Moira at 086 856 0319.
Monday 15th November 2021
Islands Youth Foruum
Comhdhail Oilean na hEireann is asking young islanders around the coast to take part in an islands youth forum. Any young person living on an island who is interested in having their say on issues affecting islands and islanders is asked to email comhdhailoileannaheireann@gmail.com by 5pm on Wednesday November the 24th. A letter of permission from a parent or guardian is needed for anyone aged under 18.
Active Retirement Group
The Bere Island Active Retirement Group will hold a Chrismtas shopping trip to Ballincolling and Cork on Thursday November the 25th. To book a place contact Tim on 027 75099.
Castletownbere Development Association
The Castletownbere Development Association have confirmed the dates for a number of Christmas events taking place in the town. On Sunday December the 5th a Christmas market will take place in St Peter’s Church, and the town Christmas lights will also be switched on the same evening. On Sunday December the 12th a drive through Santa visit will take place at the pier side of St Peter’s Gardens. To book a spot, text 086 8959321 with your name, car registration, child’s name, gender and age. The cost is €7 and bookings will be taken up until Monday December the 6th. The annual St Stephen’s Day Treasure Hunt challenge will take place on Sunday December the 26th.
Lauragh and Tuosist Men’s Group
Lauragh and Tuosist Men’s Group will hold a walk and talk on Saturday November the 20th, meeting in the community centre car park at 10.30am. For further details and to book a place contact Lizzie on 087 1217745.
Beara Further Education
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre is running a number of short courses throughout November. Painting on Glass will start on Thursday November 18th from 7.30pm to 10.00pm and run for four weeks, and Painting on Slate will start on Friday November 19th from 9.30am to 12.00pm and also run for four weeks. All the courses are free of charge. For further details and to book contact Noreen on 086 8239147.
Castletownbere Fundraising Raffle
Castletownbere RNLI’s fundraising branch are holding a raffle to win a framed limited edition of Roancarrig Lighthouse by artist Ian Strachan. The closing date for donations is Monday December 20th at midday, the draw will take place at 6pm that evening, live on the Castletownbere RNLI Facebook page. To purchase a ticket see: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/castletownberernli
Bingo
The next drive-in bingo will take place on Friday November 19th November at the Beara Coast Hotel Car Park starting at 7.30pm. The jackpot will be €1600.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
This year as part of Beara West Family Resource Centre’s Winter Wellness programme, the team will be sending out a wellness pack to people recently retired and older. The Winter Wellness pack will contain information on ways to preserve gardens through the frost, the best ways to keep a house warm, along with nutritious recipes, positive wellbeing activities and general tips to stay healthy and connected throughout the winter. For further information contact Moira on 086 856 0319 or 027 70998.
Ray O’Neill, Mental Health Expert, will host a Chat and Connect evening on Thursday December 2nd at 7pm. Ray will be facilitating a talk about the challenges some may face in the run up to Christmas and will be sharing thoughts on how to mind wellbeing at Christmas time. To book a place contact Claire Kelleher on 083 1599 748 or drop an email to info@bearawestfrc.ie
A free and fun Family Learning Group is now back on Friday mornings. Parents, babies, toddlers and school children are all welcome for singing, story-time and activities. The programme will help parents support their children to develop, learn and thrive. It’s also a chance for adults to meet and chat with other parents. Places must be pre-booked by contacting Claire on 083 1599748.
The team at the centre offer confidential, individual and family support across a wide range of areas. They can assist with finding and navigating the right community services, provide access to low-cost counselling through their links with a number of local counsellors and therapists. They also offer admin support with tasks such as completing application forms for housing support, medical cards and much more. All appointments are held in line with National Covid guidelines and must be pre-arranged, for further information or to book an appointment, call 027 70998.
The centre’s services for older people in the community include delivering meals on Thursdays, providing a Care Ring service whereby the team make social phone calls to people living alone, and linking people in with the Senior Alert Scheme of personal alarms. For information on any of these services call the Project Worker for Older People, Moira at 086 856 0319.
Monday 8th November 2021
AGM
Bere Island Projects Group will hold their AGM on Wednesday November 10th at 7pm. Due to Covid-19 the meeting will be held online via Zoom conference call. A link to register has been sent to all island residents by text. Anyone who has any questions or issues about registration is asked to contact the Projects Group office on 027 75099 by 4pm on Tuesday November 9th.
Christmas
It’s that time of year again, and the Castletownbere Development Association have announced some dates to save for their Christmas activities. On Sunday December 5th the Christmas lights will be turned on in Castletownbere and there will also be a Christmas market in St Peter’s Church. On Sunday December 12ththere’ll be a drive through Santa event in the town and on Sunday December 26th the annual St Stephen’s Day Treasure hunt challenge will take place.
Rubbish Collection
The next Bere Island rubbish collection will take place on Tuesday November 9th. Please have your rubbish out for collection by 5pm. The cost is €10 per bag and rubbish stickers can be purchased from the Heritage Centre and Murphys Shop.
Clothing collection
Beara Ladies are holding a fundraising clothing collection. Bags of clothes, shoes etc can be dropped to Fast Fish from Monday to Friday between 10.00am and 4.00pm. Please note, no bedding, blankets or pillows can be accepted.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre have a number of events and activities taking place over the coming weeks. English Language Classes will resume on Tuesday November the 9th and will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10am for 4 weeks.
The centre’s free and fun Family Learning Group is is now back and meets on Friday mornings. Parents, babies, toddlers and school children are all welcome for singing, story-time and activities. Places must be pre-booked, to register contact Claire Kelleher on 083 1599748.
Louise O’Leary of Mindful Moments will host a Chat and Connect evening on Thursday November the 11th at 7pm. Louise will be sharing her tips and tricks to build resilience and mind wellbeing this winter. All are welcome to attend this free event. tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. For further details contact 027 70998.
Monday 1st November 2021
AGM
Bere Island Projects Group CLG will hold their AGM on Wednesday 10th November at 7pm. Due to Covid-19 the meeting will be held online via Zoom conference call. A link to register has been sent to all residents. Please click on the link and complete your details to register. Following this you will receive a confirmation email and all the information needed to join the online meeting. If you have any questions or issues about registration please contact the office by Tuesday 9th November at 4pm.
Beara Historical Society
The first talk organised by the Beara Historical Society since early 2020 will take place on Wednesday November 10th at 8pm at St Peter’s Church, Castletownbere. Polar author and historian Michael Smith will give a talk, “Lost and Found – Irishman Captain Francis Crozier and the Franklin Expedition disaster”.
Previously an award-winning journalist with ‘The Observer’ and ‘The Guardian’ newspapers, Michael Smith’s books on Tom Crean, Ernest Shackleton and on other Irish Polar explorers have sold over 250,000 copies worldwide and have been translated into a number of foreign languages. His latest book ‘Icebound in the Arctic’ tells the compelling story of the Irish explorer who took command of the 1845 ill-fated Franklin expedition and the recent discovery of his two lost ships high above the Arctic Circle. In order to safeguard all those attending, vaccination certificates and face maskes will be required. All are welcome to attend, the entry fee is €5 or free to fully paid-up members of the society.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
The Beara West Family Resource Centre have a number of events and activities taking place over the coming weeks. English Language Classes will resume on Tuesday November 9th and will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings at 10am for 4 weeks. The centre’s free and fun Family Learning Group is resuming this Friday November 5th. Parents, babies, toddlers and school children are all welcome for singing, story-time and activities. The programme will help parents support their children to develop, learn and thrive. It’s also a chance for adults to meet and chat with other parents. Places must be pre-booked, to register please contact Claire Kelleher at 083 1599748.
Louise O’Leary of Mindful Moments will host a Chat and Connect evening on Thursday November 11th at 7pm. Louise will be sharing her tips and tricks to build resilience and mind wellbeing this winter. All are welcome to attend this free event. tea, coffee and refreshments will be provided. Ray O’Neill, who is a mental health expert will host a Chat and Connect evening on Thursday December 2nd at 7pm. Ray will facilitate a talk about the challenges some may face in the run up to Christmas and will be sharing thoughts on how to mind wellbeing at Christmas time.
On December 8th, Seanachaí Teddy Black host an evening of story-telling. Tea, coffee and sandwiches will be provided. The centre are particularly inviting men to this evening as they would like to invite them to join the conversation about developing a men’s group in Beara. Pre-booking is encouraged for the above three events. Phone Claire Kelleher at 083 1599 748 or drop an email to info@bearawestfrc.ie All events will take place in the Beara West Family Resource Centre, Unit 4, The Courtyard, Castletownbere.
The centre also offer confidential, individual and family support across a wide range of areas and can help individuals navigate the right community services for them. They can provide access to low-cost counselling through their links with a number of local counsellors and therapists. They offer admin support with tasks like completing application forms such as housing support, medical card and more. All appointments are held in line with National Covid guidelines and must be pre-arranged, by contacting 027 70998. The centre’s services for older people in the community include delivering meals on Thursdays, providing a Care Ring service whereby staff make social phone calls to people living alone, and linking people in with the Senior Alert Scheme of personal alarms. For information on any of these services contact Moira, the Project Worker for Older People, at 086 856 0319.
Eyeries Road Race
The Eyeries 5 mile road race will take place this Saturday November 6th, starting at 2.30pm in Eyeries Village. This is the fourth and final race in the Beara AC autumn five mile race series. The event is sponsored by Murphy’s Supervalu, Castletownbere. For further information and to register see www.popupraces.ie
Clothing collection
Beara Ladies are holding a fundraising clothing collection. Bags of clothes, shoes etc can be dropped to Fast Fish from Monday to Friday between 10.00am and 4.00pm. Please note, no bedding, blankets or pillows can be accepted.
Monday 18th October 2021
Bere Island Projects Group AGM
Bere Island Projects Group CLG will hold their AGM on Wednesday 10th November at 7pm. Due to Covid-19 the meeting will be held online via Zoom conference call.
A link to register will be sent to all residents by text this week. Please click on the link and complete your details to register. Following this you will receive a confirmation email and all the information needed to join the online meeting.
If you have any questions or issues about registration please contact teh office by Tuesday 9th November at 4pm. If you do not receive our regular text messages and wish to do so, please contact the office to be added. Please show this to all members of your household.
Bere Island 5 Mile Road Race
The Bere Island 5 Mile Road Race took place last Saturday October 16th. The event was organised by Bere Island Projects Group CLG and Beara AC, and was part of the Beara AC Autumn 5 Mile Road Race Series. The main sponsor was Murphy’s Supervalu, Castletownbere and assistance was also provided by Cork Sports Partnership. A full list of results can be found here.
Christmas Newsletter
Bere Island Projects Group will be publishing the 2021 Bere Island Christmas Newsletter and are seeking contributions, such as family news items and photos, stories of Christmases on Bere Island from days gone by and updates from all island clubs and organisations. The deadline for all submissions is next Friday October the 22nd, they can be emailed to Helen at bereconservation@gmail.com or dropped into the Projects Group office.
Beara Film Fest
The organisers of the Beara Film Fest 2021 which was held over the weekend of October 1st and 2nd have extended their thanks to all those who supported the festival. A total of €771 was raised at the event, which will be donated to Cork Street Café, a voluntary organisation in Cork City that feeds the homeless. Beara Film Fest was supported by Cork County Council Arts Grant Scheme 2021 and Creative Ireland Arts Grant Scheme County Cork 2021. It was also sponsored locally by Murphys Supervalu and Castletownbere Development Association. The festival hope to be back in their usual slot of July for 2022 and submissions for the 2022 festival will be advertised in early November.
Learn a Trade
The West Cork Development Partnership in conjunction with St Goban’s College Bantry are running Try a Trade construction course from Monday November the 8thto Friday November the 12th at St Goban’s College Bantry. The aim of the course is to give those who interested in working in the construction industry a taste of the work involved in each sector. The sessions will be a mixture of theory and practical. For further information and to book contact Feargal on 086 856 6364 or email fergal@wcdp.ie
Film
Bere Island Projects Group have launched their film to commemorate the centenary of the Bere Island Internment Camp. The film can be viewed online at www.bereisland.net The film was funded by the Heritage Council’s Community Heritage Grant scheme.
Beara West
The Beara West Family Resource Centre offer confidential, individual and family support across a wide range of areas. The team can help individuals to find and navigate the right community services for their needs. They can also assist with completing application forms, and source low-cost counselling.
As the winter months are approaching, the centre would like to reach out to older people, or those who may be more isolated, to keep them connected. If anyone would like assistance or knows of a friend or neighbour who does, they are asked to contact the centre. The centre’s Care Ring team make regular social phone calls to those who live alone and enjoy a chat. A team of volunteers deliver meals to homes every Thursday. The food is prepared by a local restaurant with several options each week at a cost of €5. For safety and peace of mind for those living alone, the Senior Alert Scheme is available to anyone over 65 years of age. The personal alarm system, in the form of a pendant or wristband, is free of charge for the first year and costs €66 per year thereafter.
The team at the Centre are busy putting together an exciting and varied schedule of activities for the upcoming Winter Wellness Programme that will start in November 2021 and run until March. They plan to organise a range of activities such as talks and walks, workshops and social activities. Anyone who has any suggestions for events that could be included on the programme is asked to contact the centre. The centre can be contacted the centre at info@bearawestfrc.ie or on 027 70998.
Monday 11th October 2021
Road Race
Bere Island Projects Group in conjunction with Beara AC will host the Bere Island 5 mile road race on Saturday October 16th. This is the third race in the annual Beara AC 5 Mile Road Race Series. The organisers extended thanks to Murphy’s Supervalu, Castletownbere who are the main sponsor again this year and also to Cork Sports Partnership for their assistance. To register for the race click here
Active Retirement Group
The Bere Island Active Retirement Group will meet for a coffee morning on Tuesday October 12th from 10am to 12pm in the Community Centre. The group will have an outing to Whiddy Island on Thursday October 14th. Numbers are limited for this trip, to book contact Tim on 027 75099.
Christmas Newsletter
Bere Island Projects Group will be publishing the 2021 Bere Island Christmas Newsletter and are seeking contributions, such as family news items and photos, stories of Christmases on Bere Island from days gone by and updates from all island clubs and organisations. The deadline for all submissions is Friday October 22nd, they can be emailed to Helen at bereconservation@gmail.com or dropped into the Projects Group office.
Internment Camp Film
Bere Island Projects Group’s film to commemorate the centenary of the Bere Island Internment Camp can be viewed online at www.bereisland.net The film was funded by the Heritage Council’s Community Heritage Grant scheme.
Beara West
The Beara West Family Resource Centre offer confidential, individual and family support across a wide range of areas. The team can help individuals to find and navigate the right community services for their needs. They can also assist with completing application forms, and source low-cost counselling.
As the winter months are approaching, the centre would like to reach out to older people, or those who may be more isolated, to keep them connected. If anyone would like assistance or knows of a friend or neighbour who does, they are asked to contact the centre. The centre’s Care Ring team make regular social phone calls to those who live alone and enjoy a chat. A team of volunteers deliver meals to homes every Thursday. The food is prepared by a local restaurant with several options each week at a cost of €5. For safety and peace of mind for those living alone, the Senior Alert Scheme is available to anyone over 65 years of age. The personal alarm system, in the form of a pendant or wristband, is free of charge for the first year and costs €66 per year thereafter.
The team at the Centre are busy putting together an exciting and varied schedule of activities for the upcoming Winter Wellness Programme that will start in November 2021 and run until March. They plan to organise a range of activities such as talks and walks, workshops and social activities. Anyone who has any suggestions for events that could be included on the programme is asked to contact the centre.
The centre can be contacted the centre at info@bearawestfrc.ie or on 027 70998.
Monday 4th October 2021
After School Club
The Bere Island After School is back and meets in the Community Centre on Mondays from 3pm to 5pm.
Christmas Newsletter
Bere Island Projects Group will be publishing the 2021 Bere Island Christmas Newsletter and are seeking contributions, such as family news items and photos, stories of Christmases on Bere Island from days gone by and updates from all island clubs and organisations. The deadline for all submissions is Friday October 22nd, they can be emailed to Helen at bereconservation@gmail.com or dropped into the Projects Group office.
Beara Further Education and Training Centre
The Beara Further Education and Training Centre will hold Irish classes for parents of children attending primary school. These will start on Wednesday October 6th from 10.00am to 11.30am. Conversational Irish classes also start on October 6th from 11.30am to 1.00pm and will run for ten weeks.
Family Food Made Easy is an eight week course which will cover how to provide a balanced diet for a family while budgeting food spending for the week. The course starts on Wednesday October 6th from 10.00am to 12.30pm. All classes will be held at the Beara Further Education and Training Centre, North Road, Castletownbere. For further details and to book, please contact Noreen on 086 8239147 or email noreen.murnane@corketb.ie
Engagement
We extend our congratulations to Anne Marie Harrington and Geoff Manser, Bere Island, who announced their engagement recently.
Clothes Collection
Beara Ladies Football will be carrying out a clothes collection from Monday October 4th. Old clothes, shoes, and bags can be donated and can be dropped into Fast Fish. Please note, the group are unable to collect any form of bedding.
Beara West Family Resource Centre
As the winter months are approaching, the Beara West Family Resource Centre would like to reach out to older people, or those who may be more isolated, to keep them connected. If anyone would like to hear about the supports for older people the centre offers, or know of a friend or neighbour who does they are asked to get in touch with the centre. The centre’s Care Ring team make regular social phone calls to those who live alone and enjoy a chat. They can also deliver locally-prepared meals on Thursdays. For further information contact 027 70998.
The team at the Centre are busy putting together an exciting and varied schedule of activities for the upcoming Winter Wellness Programme that will start in November 2021 and run until March. They plan to organise a range of activities such as talks and walks, workshops and social activities. Anyone who has any ideas for the programme is asked to contact the centre by email at info@bearawestfrc.ie or by phone on 027 70998.
Oliver Sullivan RIP
We offer our sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Oliver Sullivan, Bere Island. Oliver was laid to rest on Bere Island last Wedneday. May He Rest in Peace.
Tuesday 28th September
Sincere sympathy is offered to the family and friends of Oliver Sullivan, Bere Island who died on Sunday 26th September. May He Rest In Peace.
https://rip.ie/death-notice/john-oliver-sullivan-beara-cork/470940
January 2021
We offer our sincere sympathies to the family of Bernadette O’Sullivan, Ballinakilla Bere Island who died on Monday January 25th. Bernadette’s funeral Mass will be broadcast on Bere Island Community Radio on Wednesday 27th January at 11am. Click here to listen.
Bere Islands Project Group CLG offer sincere sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of Garda Aidan Cremin, Castletownbere Garda Station. May He Rest in Peace.
Bere Island Projects Group are planning to develop an all weather play area for young people on the island and want to lease a suitable site for this purpose. If you have a site you that you are willing to lease, please email: bipginfo@gmail.com before 5pm this Friday January 22nd with the details.
Bere Island Projects Group would like to wish everyone a Happy, and Healthy New Year.
Bere Island Projects Group CLG are working to ensure Bere Island remains a vibrant and viable community.