Conor Mullane, son of Conor and Mary B., Knocknagorna, on his wedding day with his bride Kelly McNamara of Doolin in Gougane Barra Church recently

Athea Duck and Swan

The Athea Duck and Swan group are having a fundraiser at Batt’s Bar in aid of Alzheimer Sociaty of Ireland. We would welcome any donation or a spot prize for the draw on the night.

Thanking you in advance,

Duck and Swan committee

Save the date-We’re on the Run

Knockdown Vintage are holding their Annual Vintage Charity Run on 30th March 2025 in Knockdown Arms, Athea. This year our two worthy beneficiaries are: Cystic Fibrosis Ireland and the Little Blue Heroe’s.

Following the run, we will hold our customary Auction and Raffle.

Anyone wishing to make a donation towards the Auction and Raffle would be much appreciated.

For further information contact Margaret Culhane on 087 2303918

Carol Noonan on 087 6535029

Mairead Langan on 087 6407026

Athea Drama Group 

Athea Drama Group who will present ‘Sharon’s Grave’ by John B Keane on February 27th, March 1st, 2nd, 6th, 8th & 9th at Con Colbert Hall , Athea at 8pm. The booking line is busy so the advice is to book now on 0876926746. Doors open at 7.15pm

The Way I See It

By Domhnall de Barra

There was a shocking story on the airwaves during the week about a woman who was at her wit’s end trying to get a school pace for her daughter who is autistic. She has been in a preschool for the past three years but now there is no place for her in any of the schools within a wide radius of her house. This is simply not good enough at a time when there seems to be plenty of money available, even for state of the art bike sheds. Every child has an entitlement to education under our constitution and it is time for our elected representatives to do their duty and ensure people like that woman and her daughter are not made to feel like pariahs. The sad thing is that this is not an isolated case. There are others throughout the country with the same problem. There is also something wrong with the two tier system we have in the health service at the moment. If you need certain treatments and are on a medical card you may be on a waiting list of up to two years but if you are going private, or have private insurance, you will be treated straight away. There’s a line in a song that goes: “if living was a thing that money could buy, the rich would live and the poor would die”.  Have we reached that reality now? Don’t get me wrong, I think our health service is fantastic, once you get inside the door of the hospital. The doctors and nurses are second to none but they are working under great duress. The blame lies with management at the very top. At a time when we were short of medical staff, what did they do?  They put an embargo on recruitment. These are the same geniuses who closed so many smaller hospitals around the country causing severe crowding in the main centres that were left. The hospital in Limerick is a case in point. It simply can’t accommodate the amount of patients that need it and, if you visit it by car, you will be very lucky to get a parking space. I was down there with Noreen lately and I had to drop her off and go to the car park in  The Crescent shopping centre. This is just bad planning and somebody needs to tackle the problem head on. As the saying goes about hospitals, they are good to have but bad to want. The reality is we all need them sooner or later and we deserve to be treated when we really need it, regardless of what category we are in.

I grew up learning that communism was a bad form of government and capitalism  was good. The idea of communism is good in that everyone is equal and all goods and wealth are shared by the people. The problem is, it is run by human beings who somehow make some people more equal than others. The flagship of communism is Russia yet there are more multi-billionaires in that country than anywhere else. The normal people haven’t such a good life though. Capitalism would have us believe that everyone has a right and an opportunity to become a millionaire. The problem is we end up with all the wealth in the hands of a few people just like in America at the moment. A rising tide is supposed to raise all boats but there is a lot of poverty in the US at the moment. We treat successful people like gods even though they may have bankrupted many people while amassing their own fortunes. We even think, because they have been successful in one area, they have the answer to every problem. That is not always the case as can be seen by the elevation of Elon Musk to Trumps team.  He is firing people left, right and centre, sometimes for all the wrong reasons and has had to reverse some of those decisions because the people fired were badly needed in their departments.  Maybe there are too many employed by the government but if that is the case, the way to deal with it is to put an embargo on recruitment until natural wastage lowers the numbers to the desired figure. It is not going to end well for him because what is happening is just wrong and government representatives, who depend on the votes of these workers, are getting it in the ear from them. There are also the unions who are not as powerful as they used to be but are needed more now than at any time. What kind of a system allows an unelected individual to go over the heads of departments and start firing people? If it happened in Russia we would be giving out about it. What am I saying, there seems to be no difference now between the US and Russia. It is sickening to hear Trump and other US politicians criticising the Ukrainian leader and trying to cosy up to Putin who, despite what they say, started the war by invading a peaceful sovereign country. Trump is even saying that he wants the 350 billions they gave to Ukraine back. Will he also ask Israel to return the multi-billions they have received from the US in military aid?  I don’t think so. This is just Trump being a bully because , in reality, most of the arms used in the war are made in America so jobs  were created and money flowed in. I was never more fearful for the world than now. Europe cannot afford to let Putin win on his own terms backed up by America. If that happens what country is going to be next? Peace at any price is not peace at all and we all know, all excerpt the Americans it seems, that Russia cannot be trusted to keep to any deal. Their track record proves that. Putin simply cannot be allowed off the hook because Trump wants to be the big hero and claim that he ended the war.

Church Notices

Priests: Fr. Tom Mangan 087-2348226, Fr. Willie Russell 087 2272825, Fr. Dan Lane 087 2621911.

Masses this week- Tuesday morning 9.30am, Friday evening 7pm and Sunday 11am.

Eucharistic Adoration and the Devine Mercy Chaplet every Tuesday morning after mass.

To book a Mass intention contact the sacristy after mass or contact Siobhan on 087-3331459.

All masses are streamed live on https://www.churchservices.tv/athea

Baptisms take place on the fourth weekend of the month. Parents who wish to baptise their child in the next few months should contact Siobhan on 087-3331459.

ALONE are seeking volunteers in the ATHEA area. Full training and support provided. If interested, please contact Caroline on 086-4040910 .

Parish Administration: Tues-Fri 11am-1pm. call Siobhan on 087-3331459, outside of these hours text or email [email protected]     Facebook:  Athea Parish Church Community

Athea Community Council   Lucky Numbers Draw  24/02/’25

No’s Drawn: 1,  6,  21,  26.  No Winner

Lucky Dips

Maggie & Rob,                  c/o Collins’ Shop

Hearóid Collins,                The Nurseries

Micheál & Niamh  Ambrose,     Lr. Dirreen

Mary Sexton, c/o Collins’ Shop

Sellers Prize:  James Fitsgibbon & White’s

Next Draw:  03/03/’25  Venue:  Batt’s Bar

Jackpot €24,500

by Tom Aherne

PATRICK HARNETT: The death has occurred of Patrick (Patsy) Harnett, Ballinacally, Ardagh, peacefully in the loving care of The Bluebell Ward, St Ita’s Hospital Newcastle West on Thursday  February 13. Reposing  was held at Riedy’s Funeral home, Newcastle West on Sunday February 16, from 5pm followed by removal  to St Molua’s Church, Ardagh. The Requiem Mass was concelebrated by Fr Paddy Bowen, Fr Michael Noonan and Fr Raphael Okanumeh, in St Molua’s Church, Ardagh on Monday  at 11.30am. Family and neighbours participated in the ceremony and the Burke family supplied the music and hymns. Fr Paddy paid tribute to Patsy during the ceremony and John thanked all the care services who looked after Patsy in his later years. Burial took place afterwards in the local cemetery. Sympathy to  his brothers Tommy and John, his sisters in law Sandra and Chris, his nephews Stephen and Andrew and their families, his cousins, neighbours and many friends. Patsy was a gentleman, widely known and highly regarded around the locality. He lived close to nature and possessed great faith. He was a lovely singer and a past member of the Ardagh Church choir. Close to his heart would be farming,  Gaelic games and politics. It was always a pleasure to meet him at Dairygold  Co op Ardagh. May he rest in Peace.

MICHAEL FLYNN: Congratulations to Michael Flynn from Glensharrold, Carrigkerry who defied the odds to beat the three-time world champion Michael Van Gerwen 6-5 in the first round of the third Players Championship on home soil in Rosmalen, the Netherlands on Monday February 17. Michael is ranked 11th on the Challenge Tour, which is used as a reserve list for the Players Championship events. He was only added to the PDC event’s entry list on Sunday morning and his inclusion came after several late withdrawals from the tournament. The last-minute phone call  on Sunday meant a three-hour rush by car from his home in West limerick to Dublin airport  In the next round ” Flynn the Flyer” (nickname)was beaten 6-4 by Poland’s Tytus Kanik in the next round but what an achievement  to get past the PDC world championship finalist. Michael was interviewed on RTE Radio 1 on Wednesday morning. Next up for him is the Irish individual and team championship finals. Continued success to Michael (who is also a member of the St Kieran’s GAA club) in his darts career.

JAMES LAWLOR: Narrative 4 director James Lawlor from Knocknagun, Carrigkerry recently met Pope Francis at the Jubilee of the World of Communication Conference. As part of the inaugural Jubilee event the Vatican invited Limerick based storytelling organisation Narrative 4 to lead a special storytelling event with young journalists from many countries. The Pope urged those present to share stories that inspire hope, bridge divides and foster unity. James and his colleagues were invited to meet the Pope on the final day of the trip. It was a once in a lifetime experience, said James.

CARER AWARD: Congratulations to Ellen Gannon, Newcastle West, who has been named Limerick Person of the Month Award sponsored by Limerick Leader and the Clayton Hotel. Ellen was honoured with the Munster Young Carer of the Year 2024 award last December as part of the Netwatch Young Carer of the Year national awards. Ellen aged 11 was recognised at the annual ceremony for minding her twin brothers with nonverbal autism. She attends Kilcolman National School, and her brothers Andrew and James Gannon attend Nano Nagle special school in Listowel. Ellen herself has ADHD and Dyslexia but helps to care for them both and dotes on them with love affection and countless energy. Despite her responsibilities , she excels in sports, enjoys art and brings joy to everyone around her. All three children live with their mother Helen O’Flynn, originally from Ballyegna, Ardagh. Ellen will be one of 12 Person of the Month recipients, at the Limerick Person of the Year  ceremony. Continued good wishes to Ellen and family.

GAA PRESENTATIONS:  St Kieran’s GAA Club made 2 presentations  following their annual road hurling  charity and auction event which raised €8,620 held on December 27. They presented Milford Care Centre Limerick with a cheque for €4,310. They presented a cheque to Brú Columbanus based in Cork city with the other half raised €4,310, plus an additional €500 received from Carrigkerry Wren group. The club would like to thank everyone who contributed  to the total presentation.

LOTTERY DRAW: The Ardagh Development Association and Saint Kieran’s GAA joint weekly lottery   draw took place on Monday February 17.The numbers drawn were 11,14,22,28 , and  there was no  winner of the €5,600 Jackpot. Congratulations to the five lucky dip winners who received  € 40 each: Helen Relihan c/o Ailish, Sandra O’Connor, Newcastle West, Paula Enright, Park Ballyhahill, Shane King, Carrigkerry, Kevin Browne, Newcastle West. Next week’s  Jackpot will be €5,700. People can play online using club force on the club’s Facebook page, with 6pm on Monday evening the deadline. The tickets are also on sale at the usual outlets, and all support will be appreciated.  Both organisations wish to thank all the people for their continued support.

RADIO DRAW: Congratulations to Adrian Leahy, Dromcollogher, who won €240 in the West Limerick 102fm 50/50 draw, held on Friday February 21. The tickets cost €2, or 3 for €5 and they are available from volunteers, in local shops, (including Moloneys Carrigkerry,  and from the radio station.  All support will be appreciated. The station can be contacted at 069-66200 if people have news of interest to the West Limerick area.

GAELIC GAMES: Congratulations  to St Kieran’s players Eoin Sheahan, Sean Long, Jack O’ Sullivan, Conor McMahon, Gavin Thompson, Shane O’ Mahony and David O’ Connell who were part of the Scoil Mhuire agus Íde, Newcastle West team panel who defeated St Mary’s, Newport  by  0-10 to 1-5 on  Saturday February 15, in the Munster Under 19 ‘C Hurling Championship Final played in Killmallock.  Congratulations to Cathal Mc Enery who was part of the Aughanish Alumina team who defeated Campion Insurance in the Limerick Inter Firm Junior Hurling Championship Final on Thursday February 13. Congratulations to Ben Hough, from St Kieran’s who has made the County U16s football panel for 2025.

Congratulations to Conor O’Sullivan who has made the U14s Limerick County Football panel for 2025!

SOCCER NEWS: Carrig Celtic defeated Glin Rovers B 5-2 at home in Division 2 the Desmond League on Sunday February 16. Adam Bennett 2, Seanie King, Ray Brouder and Sean Kelly scored their goals. In Division 3 Kilcolman Rovers lost 4-1 at home. Creeves Celtic had no match. In the Premier Ladies League Kilcolman Rovers defeated Charleville 2-1 at home with goals from Karen O’Leary and Mia Forrestal. In Division 1 Creeves Celtic defeated Feenagh 1-0 away with Laura O’Shaughnessy scoring.

POTHOLES GALORE: The winter weather has left our rural roads in a dangerous state with potholes appearing like mushrooms on poorly maintained surfaces. The snowfall and hard frost softened the tar, and the rainfall did the rest. Now  with increased large movement of machinery and vehicles on poor surfaces, these roads were not built to accommodate them. A number of owners have had to replace tyres as a result of hitting the side of potholes which are impossible to avoid due to the width of the narrow roads. The rural dwellers pay high motor insurance and tax and deserve good quality roads to conduct their everyday business. These roads need to be repaired and maintained now before it is too late to restore them.

PARK RUN: The very popular park run is held in the Demesne Newcastle West on Saturday morning from 9.30am. People can walk, jog or run in the free weekly event. It is a social event and a chance to meet new people in a friendly environment. All are welcome to join in the proceedings and to enjoy the delights of the Demesne.

ATHEA DRAMA: The play ”Sharon’s Grave” by John B Keane will be performed by Athea Drama Group in Con Colbert Memorial Hall on Thursday February 27 at 8pm. Continuing on March 1st, 2nd, 6th, 8th, 9th. Tickets can be booked by text, Whats App on 087-6926746.

FITNESS CLASS: St Kieran’s GAA Club are holding a fitness on the move class for adults aged 55 plus  on Fridays from 2-3pm, at Ardagh Community Hall. This is a follow up to the 4-week class held last December. €5 per person per class and for more information call Paula on (087)2223581

LIMERICK FOOTBALL WALK: The Friends of Limerick Football are holding a sponsored 8k return Greenway Walk from Newcastle West to Ardagh on Saturday March 1, from 9.30am. The starting and finishing point in Newcastle West is beside Gaelscoil Ó Dóghair, V42PD71. Tea and coffee served afterwards.  Sponsorship  cards are available from Jacqueline O’Connor and Gerry Phillips. All the proceeds go to Limerick Football and the Football Academy.

MONTHS MIND: The Months Mind Mass for Nancy Daly Ardagh will be celebrated in St Molua’s Church Ardagh on Saturday March 1, at 6.30pm.

JIVE CLASS: A Jiving and Slosh dance class takes place  in Ardagh Hall on Sunday March 2, and Sunday March 9, from 7pm to 8.30pm. Niall Doorhy is the teacher and  €35 per person. All ages welcome. Contact Deirdre for all the details.

DRAMA DATE: Killeedy Parish Hall Committee in association with Spike Players Knocknagoshel  present ”The Beauty Queen of Leenane” by Martin Mc Donagh,  at St Ita’s Parish Hall Raheenagh (V42ET85) on Friday March 7, at 8pm. Tickets cost €10 and call 086-1649099 to reserve same. A raffle will be held also, and the proceeds are in aid of the Parish Hall.

by Kathleen Mullane

Bits and Bobs

All the very best of luck to the Athea Drama Group, who take to the stage here in the Memorial Hall starting this Thursday night and continuing into next week with their production of “Sharon’s Grave.” No doubt, if past dramas are anything to go by, this should be a great display of acting. Please give them your full support and enjoy the night.

Another great night is anticipated in April in Templegantine, when Strictly Come Dancing takes place as a fundraiser for both the Glantine Hurling and Camogie Clubs, with T.J. Hunt, son of John and Nora, taking to the floor with his cousin Ciara Stack, showing their footwork. No doubt it will be a great night, and your support would be welcome.

Congratulations are extended to Robbie Woulfe, son of Mary and Phillip, who celebrated his 21st birthday recently along with his family and friends. A great time was enjoyed by Robbie and all in attendance.

And weren’t Marion and Dick Chawke looking wonderful in last week’s newsletter as they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary, looking as happy and young as they did 50 years ago.

Can you believe it? Next Tuesday is Pancake Tuesday, and despite all the bad weather we have had, time has gone by so quickly since Christmas. No doubt the pans will be hopping next week as the pancakes are being made and the sugar and lemon are at hand, as well as all the different toppings that the young people like on top. Ash Wednesday, the day after, is the start of Lent, which in days gone by was the beginning of fasting for over six weeks. Nowadays, people are more likely to take on something rather than give up. Everyone is different, so it’s up to the individual.

Don’t forget there are many books for avid readers, both men and women, available to take from the bookshelf in the kitchen in the Hall when it’s open. There is no charge at all, and you can also leave books that you may have read for someone else.

It’s all on the news about the many Ukrainians who have now made Ireland their home since they fled the war three years ago. I just saw a 10-year-old boy who took up residence two years ago in Ballyferriter who is now an accomplished Irish speaker and has learned to play the accordion with gusto. Fair play to him at this young age, and they say Irish is a dead language—no way.

I don’t know if any of you were watching inside Beaumont Hospital last Wednesday night. It will be on again this week, where the neurosurgery was taking place. It was unreal. What gifted surgeons having patients’ brains in their so capable hands—one slip and it would be a sad story for the patients. A young girl who was a great runner suffered severe epileptic fits, and after extreme brain surgery, she was cured. A real joy at the end.

I was just thinking life can be so fragile, and this week our first cousin’s son in his mid-forties passed away suddenly from a heart attack in England. Robert Sweeney and his family spent many a summer in their young days here in Athea and always loved Athea. Only the night he passed away, he had asked to join the Ath an tSleibhe group. We must realise that we here in our little village are loved, and families keep in contact through this newsletter, GAA, church webcam, and so many other Athea groups that they keep up with the news about Athea, which is wonderful—here’s to Athea.

Congratulations to Fionn Histon, who celebrated his birthday recently with a party at Brown Joes. A great night was enjoyed by everyone.

Thought for the Week:

No one is to blame for your future situation but yourself.