Congratulations to Ciara O’Grady, Glenbawn, who graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and Financial Management in the GMIT in Castlebar last week. We wish Ciara success on her further studies.

The Ballyhahill primary school children managed to finish the mural on the school wall, making it a very attractive feature. Well done to all.

The Killeaney AFC is holding the annual Social & Awards Night on Friday November 23^rd in the Knockdown Arms. There will be a fundraising raffle on the night and the club would appreciate all the support that you can give.

My book “The Purple Pencil” – reflective poems celebrating everyday life – will be on sale in local shops and bookshops this weekend for €12. This includes a CD of the poems also. The following is an excerpt.

Emigration

There’s no more work in Ireland; she’ll have to go away.

I can see the sorrow in my daughter’s face.

This country is all corruption and decay.

She had great plans to be buried in this clay;

she wants to rear her family in this place.

There’s no more work in Ireland; she’ll have to go away

For the welfare of my daughter I have prayed

that all challenges in the future she’ll embrace.

This country is all corruption and decay.

In Australia her children will now play;

in King’s Park in Perth they’ll hide and chase.

There’s no more work in Ireland; she’ll have to go away

Her intention is to return – please God she may.

She is hoping that we’ll recover from disgrace.

This country is all corruption and decay.

With patience I am waiting for the day

When I will be gifted with that grace.

There’s no more work in Ireland; she’ll have to go away.

This country is all corruption and decay.