‘Recognition Of Achievement’ Certificates Presented At Limerick County Hall

A presentation ceremony marking the various achievements of groups and individuals from County Limerick took place this week at County Hall following a meeting of the Castleconnell Area Committee.

‘Recognition of Achievement’ certificates were presented to Pallasgreen Ballad Group, who won the Readoiri All Ireland 2008 competition; Cappamore Set Dancing Group, who recently won both Readoiri and Scór na nÓg All Ireland competitions; and Gillian Bourke, who was recently capped for the Irish Ladies National Rugby Team. Presenting the awards, Councillor Mary Harty, Chairperson of the Castleconnell Area Committee, congratulated those being honoured for their outstanding achievements in their respective fields.

“By presenting these certificates today the Castleconnell Area Committee and Limerick County Council are acknowledging the efforts of individuals who have brought great honour to their communities and the entire county. We are honoured to celebrate the contributions of these exceptional individuals, who I know will continue to show pride and confidence in their own abilities while achieving further success for County Limerick at national and international level”, added Councillor Harty.

She continued, “Gillian Bourke’s outstanding record of achievement as a rugby player and coach is a tribute to her steadfast commitment to constantly improving her game. As for the singers and dancers, their respective achievements are testament to their tutors and families, as well as their own hard work. I am especially delighted to learn that both sets of young people have made lasting friendships and that their involvement in Scór na nÓg has been a catalyst for involvement in other healthy, enjoyable activities together.”

The certificate recipients and all seven members of the Castleconnell Area Committee attended today’s ceremony. Micheál O Riain, Chairman, County Board Scór na nÓg; Ms. Anna Jane Ryan, Tutor, Pallasgreen Ballad Group; Mr. Michael Shinners, Secretary, Scór na nÓg, Pallasgreen; and Ms. Pauline Hynan, Tutor, Cappamore Set Dancing Group, were also present. The ceremony featured a performance of the Cavan Reel Set by the Cappamore Set Dancing Group. Ranging from age 10-14 years, the group consists of Cian O'Flynn, Patrick Berkery, Anthony Foley, Aoife Foley, Joseph Lonergan, Laura Lonergan, Caroline Collins and Jennifer Charles.

The group boasts a very strong tradition of Set Dancing having won at several levels over the years including the World Fleadh in Portlaoise (2007); Readoíri & All Ireland, Scór na nÓg, Set Dancing (2001, 2004, 2007). Last month, the group picked up a number of prizes at the International Set Dancing Competition in Manchester. In August 2007 three members of the group auditioned for the RTE daytime television programme, Star Search and were successful in entering the competition. They are now into the 3rd round of the competition, which is broadcast on ‘The Den’.

Gillian Bourke from Scart, near Ballyneety, received her first international cap by appearing for the Irish women’s rugby team in February 2008. The UL Bohemians player and former show jumper has since made four international appearances and continues to train with the national side ahead of the Amsterdam 7s Rugby Tournament next month. Gillian began her rugby career in 2003 when she commenced her studies with UL. Since then she has played for, captained and now coaches the UL Ladies Rugby team. In 2005 Gillian joined the Connaught provincial squad before departing the following year to work with the Border Reivers Rugby Club in southern Scotland, as part of her 8-month co-operative education for her studies. Since graduating in 2007, Gillian has become the IRFU Youth Development Officer for the Galway region.

The Pallasgreen Ballad Group consists of Edel O'Driscoll, Maria Ryan, Elaine O'Dwyer, Paul Lawton and Willie O'Dwyer, all of who are 15-16 years of age. Like the Cappamore Set Dancers, the group practises up to three 3 times a week for about 1.5 hours. In 2002, the group won the All Ireland Scór na nÓg and Readoírí competitions. They have also reached the Munster Final and County Final competitions during this period.

Councillor Mary Harty, Chairperson of the Castleconnell Area Committee presents Irish Womens Rugby International Gillian Bourke of Scart, Ballyneety, with a ‘Recognition of Achievement’ certificate at Limerick County Hall, 7th April, 2008. Also pictured are members of Gillian's family

Councillor Mary Harty, Chairperson of the Castleconnell Area Committee presents members of the Pallasgreen Ballad Group with a ‘Recognition of Achievement’ certificate at Limerick County Hall, 7th April, 2008. Also pictured are family members and representatives the County Board Scór na nÓg

Councillor Mary Harty, Chairperson of the Castleconnell Area Committee presents Ms. Pauline Hynan, Tutor, Cappamore Set Dancing Group, and members of the Cappamore Set Dancing Group with a ‘Recognition of Achievement’ certificate at Limerick County Hall, 7th April, 2008. Also pictured are family members and representatives the County Board Scór na nÓg

Cathaoirleach Of Limerick County Council Bemoans Lack Of Respect For National Flag

The Cathaoirleach of Limerick County Council has expressed concern over the growing number of incidents whereby the National Flag was being disrespected.

Councillor Kevin Sheahan said that guidelines for use of the Irish Tricolour, issued by the Department of the Taoiseach, were being contravened because many people were unaware of their existence. He explained, “It saddens me to see so many examples of our National Flag being disrespected. Such examples are visible all throughout the country and include the flag being displayed in the open after sunset and the hoisting of a flag that is worn or frayed.”

“I am aware that observance of the guidelines is a matter for each individual because there are no statutory requirements. However, it is only reasonable to expect that the National Flag would be treated at all times with appropriate respect by those who use it”, added Councillor Sheahan.
The protocol for the flying of the flag contains 23 guidelines relating to its display, placing and precedence. Among them is the ruling that the National Flag is displayed in the open only between sunrise and sunset, except on the occasion of public meetings, processions, or funerals, when it may be displayed for the duration of such functions.

“This is one guideline that is commonly disregarded, whether it be unintentionally or knowingly”, stated Councillor Sheahan. The Cathaoirleach continued, “Should you drive through any village or town in Ireland after sunset you will see incidences of the Irish National Flag being displayed. Furthermore, flags that have been erected to celebrate sports events, National Holidays, festivals and commemorations, often remain attached to buildings and other structures for weeks on end. It is especially disheartening to see the National Flag touching the ground, trailing in water or becoming entangled in trees or other obstacles.”

Councillor Sheahan said that the Government should consider developing a media campaign aimed at educating Irish citizens about the guidelines and the importance of respecting the National Flag. He added that the Department of Education and Science should also contemplate ways of educating children about the guidelines.

“There is no doubting the patriotism of Irish people at home and abroad when it comes to celebrating their nationality. However, it is disappointing to hear visitors to Ireland comment about the many examples of disrespect for the National Flag. I would appeal to people to view the guidelines for displaying the Irish Tricolour on the Office of An Taoiseach’s website”, concluded Councillor Sheahan.