Florida Turtle makes its home in Limerick

Usually found in the wetlands of Florida, the yellow-bellied slider turtle is not a species you would expect to find in a Limerick waterway better known for its trout and salmon. On June 18th last, Inland Fisheries Officers were called out after such an unusual discovery was made in the river Maigue near Adare. A male yellow-bellied turtle, more at home in sub-tropical US States, was found in good physical condition in the Maigue’s tidal waters. It is likely the turtle either escaped by accident or was purposely released. Popular as pets, they thrive in warm climates and the Adare turtle was said to have been “enjoying the good weather conditions we are having at the moment”.

The fishery officers say it is now becoming more common to find non-nature species in Irish waterways and this causes problems if they breed and become established, thereby threatening native plants, animals and eco-systems. They can also suffer great hardship and die in unsuitable habitats and cold weather. The turtle was brought to Limerick Animal Welfare shelter in Kilfinane. Director at Ireland Fisheries Ireland (I.F.I.) Limerick, Amanda Mooney, is now urging the public to be more conscious when purchasing exotic species for pets. I.F.I. run a 24 hour service confidential line where anyone can contact them and report any discovery of an alien species at 1850Fish24 or 1890347424.

Bryan Dobson set to take up new roll at U.L.

RTE news presenter, Bryan Dobson, has been appointed as Adjunct Professor of Public Service Broadcast at the University of Limerick. Mr. Dobson, 53, who is main anchor of the flagship Six One News programme, is one of the most respected broadcasters in Ireland. He will take up the honorary position on September 1st for a three year period. As Adjunct Professor of Public Service Broadcast Journalism, he will conduct expert lectures in public service broadcast policy and master classes in broadcast service and journalism. “University of Limerick journalism students will now be working alongside one of the most recognized names and a trusted face in Irish broadcasting” said Professor Harper, head of the school of Culture and Communication at UL.

New Set Dancing Book

“Tabhair Dom Do Laimh” -Pat Murphy’s  4th set dancing book has just been released. There is a collection of 52 sets contained in this book which include some older sets which had been forgotten for many years which now have been revived and are being taught in workshops throughout Ireland and abroad and some newly composed sets (Camp Merchant Set, Corballa, Templebeg and many more). There are County Limerick sets included in Pat’s new book also including notes for the Ballyhahill half and Ballysteen half sets. Pat has also included some new two-hands, céilí dances and social dances. This book is also a great reference to those who are interested in learning about the history of Irish dance through the ages and there are also articles and information from other countries where Irish set dancing is very popular.

“Tabhair Dom Do Laimh” can be obtained locally by contacting Timmy Woulfe, Athea at 087-9451247 or Ultan Mulcahy at 087-6325199. The cost of the book is €25.

Seisiún

The Comhaltas Seisiún season is fast approaching. The weekly shows of traditional entertainment will commence locally at the Devon Inn on Thursday nights starting this Thursday July 3rd. The programme of music, song, dance and storytelling is enjoyed by both locals and visitors and has proved most popular over previous seasons.

Rathfredagh Garden Fete

The annual Rathfredagh Garden Fete takes place on Sunday, July 6th. If you have any items that would be suitable for any of the stands they would be very welcome. This is the biggest fundraising day for Rathfredagh and your support would be greatly appreciated. The funds raised will help in no small way to continue the marvelous work which has been done over the years.

Independent Booksellers Week

Independent Booksellers Week will take place in Newcastle West Book Store Ltd., Market Yard, from June 28th-July 5th. Pop in throughout this week and enjoy the benefit of the store’s promotions. A chance to show your love and interest in books at your local bookshop.