Limerick Star News Blog

Social Welfare Targeting People Through Facebook - Sean O Neill (RSF)

2010-07-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

NO PROBING OF BANKERS AS WELARE
OFFICIALS CHECK SOCIAL NETWORK SITES

Social welfare investigators in Limerick are now probing internet
personal networking sites such as Facebook in a new drive to cut
payments, a local community activist said today.

Sean O’Neill from Quinn’s Cottages in Prospect said that young
people are being questioned about their living arrangements
and holiday plans by officials from the Department of Social
Protection.

Single mothers seem to be the targets of this latest probe
by the investigators he said. One young mother was asked
why there were two toothbrushes in her bathroom.

In addition to highly personal visits where living space is
examined the officials are also using social networking
sites to gain information on some claimants.

In recent days I have had a number of people come to
me and say that they were asked about information on
social networking sites. One person was asked about
an upcoming holiday.

All this type of behaviour smacks of Big Brother and
it contrasts starkly with the way the criminal bankers
are being treated.

The poorest and most deprived segment of society is
probed in such a fashion by social welfare officials,
yet the bankers can waltz off with millions in tax
payers money.

This latest example of targeting the less well off is
misplaced and instead the officials should direct their
snooping to the bankers and developers who have
brought this country to the brink of financial ruin.

Star Spots:

2010-07-28T06:47:00.001-07:00

The community of Moyross officially launched its own website this week. The site was launched by Minister Pat Carey (FF), you can view the site @ www.moyross.ie

The Limerick Tunnel is now open for business.

Gary Daly (23) of Ballynanty, has pleaded guilty to stealing copper piping from an industrial estate in Castletroy. The piping which belonged to Flextronics was stolen in November 2009. The case was adjourned for sentencing until September 28th at Limerick Circuit Court.

Limerick's Got Talent returns to Patrick Punch's Hotel this August after a very successful first year.

Power lifters from Southill have picked up five medals from the European Power lifting Championship, the five medal winners ares as follows,

Noel Kelly ( Junior ) - Gold
Jonathan Campbell - Gold
Jonathan Curtin - Gold
Barry Keelan - Silver
John Quinn - Bronze

Tommy Dillon was the Team Coach.

Mayor Byrne And Local Children Clean Up St Mary's Park

2010-07-28T06:33:00.000-07:00

Children From St Mary's Park, are spending a portion of their Summer holidays painting derelict houses on St Munchin's Street with Mayor Maria Byrne (FG). The initiative which is called "lets get together" is being supported by the Limerick Regeneration Agency. The Civic Trust and St Mary's aid are providing enviorment workers for the project. The idea behind the project is to clean up and maintain 60 derelict houses, by painting them, and cutting the grass in the gardens, thus making them alot more presentable. "Kings Island" came first when they first entered the tidy towns competition in 1999. That category is now defunct, so St Mary's Park is entering the urban housing estate category this year.

Woman Dies In Fall From Flat - Update Victim Named

2010-06-24T09:15:00.000-07:00

A 25 Year old woman, living on Clare Street, but originally from Fedamore in Co. Limerick has died after falling from the top window of her apartment. The accident took place in the early hours of this Morning. It is believed that the woman was impaled on Iron bars outside the apartment during the fall. Fire rescuers freed the woman and she was brought to the Mid Western Regional Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead from her injuries. Gardai from Henry Street are investigating the accident.

The victim has been named locally as Audrey Coffee.

Kevin Kiely's Time As Mayor Comes To An End

2010-06-22T12:50:00.000-07:00

Kevin Kiely the 813Th Mayor Of Limerick ( and current Mayor )leaves the highest office in Limerick this week. Throughout his time as Mayor Of Limerick he has made some controversial statements, such as calling for all Unemployed EU Nationals to be deported, a change in licencing laws, and the re introduction of the death penalty, ( even though that would be next to impossible while Ireland is a member of the EU. )

Earlier this month he expressed an interest in a second term as Mayor Of Limerick. This week he even went as far as stating that "its there for him if he wants it" ( a second term as Mayor ). Despite this other Fine Gael Councillors have gone on record as saying the next Mayor Of Limerick will be Cllr: Maria Byrne (FG).

By the end of the week, we will know if there will be a new Mayor Of Limerick, or if indeed Kevin Kiely will stay on for a second term.

Limerick Milk Market

2010-06-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

The Limerick Milk Market has been around since the 1800,s, this week it opened back up after months of work being done, which resulted in a roof being put over the market. In the past the market ran on Saturday morning, the new market will now operate three days a week, and eventually will open 7 days a week. In this post you can read all about the history of the Limerick Milk Market, from its inception right up to this present day.

The text below is credited to www.milkmarketlimerick.ie

History of the Milk Market

In the 1840s there was a belief that the dispersal of markets throughout the city, their fitness for purpose, and their general constitution and management, was not the best solution for the City and the Limerick Market Trustees was set up by an Act of the British Parliament, passed in 1852, to expand and manage the affairs of markets within the city boundary and its environs.

The Trustees consisted of representatives from three corporate bodies, the Corporation, the County Grand Jury and the Chamber of Commerce. Each body elected 9 representatives who would serve on the board for a twelve month period. The first board of Trustees was elected in July 1853 and the first chairman of the Limerick Market Trustees was John Croker of Ballynagarde who represented the County Grand Jury.

In order to fulfill their charter the Trustees raised finance and acquired a large parcel of land in the Garryowen area of the city where many of the markets were relocated with the original market properties disposed of. The Butter Market, the Pig Market and the Hay Market were transferred to the new market area but the Potato Market and the Corn Market (latterly known as the Milk Market) were retained. The Linen Hall, was an early victim of commercial change as the Linen industry in North Munster collapsed after the Famine, mainly because many of the Linen Mills were adapted for the grinding of Indian Corn which was brought in for Famine Relief.

In 1858 the National Bank transferred the mortgage to the Economic Life Assurance Society and the Trustees were required to service this mortgage by agreed payments. In 1897, however, the Trustees defaulted in their payments to the Society, who immediately sought a court judgement against the Limerick Market Trustees. This court action triggered a number of other claims against the Trustees. Eventually, in 1898, after the intervention of Limerick Corporation a receiver was appointed by the Court of Chancery to manage the affairs of the Market Trustees. Limerick Corporation now effectively became the official Receiver for the Market Trustees.

The Limerick Market Trustees were to continue in this economic limbo for ninety years during which time huge economic change occurred. The advent of co-operative creameries effectively spelled the end of the open marketing of butter on a large scale. The pig market went into decline long before Limerick’s four bacon factories closed their doors. The Hay market became a victim of the improved means of motorised transport and it came to an end in the 1930s. A vibrant cattle market was instituted, however, and this lasted well into the 1970s. The Potato Market lasted into the 1940s before it also became redundant. The Corn Market or Milk Market, however, continued to thrive even if the nature of the produce traded there had changed. In addition to the sale of fruit and vegetables there was a lively trade in fowl, homemade butter and homemade breads and cakes. It was not until the 1950s that the market for bedding plants and shrubs began to grow and this range of produce expanded rapidly in the 1960s. Another feature of the Market during this period was the Christmas market for turkeys.

All that time and, regardless of the market activity, the Limerick Market Trustees remained in receivership

In 1982 Limerick Corporation sought a new site for the city fire brigade as the existing premises in Thomas Street was found to be unsuitable because of the traffic flow in the city centre. Because the City Manager was the instigator of the purchase the price to be paid had to be set by independent arbitration. The final sum agreed was in the region of €508,000. This was a sum sufficient to pay off the outstanding debts of the Market Trustees. In February 1988 the receivership was terminated having gone into the record books as the longest receivership in Irish commercial history.

Following the release of the Trustees from receivership an ambitious renovation of the Milk Market was undertaken. This project won a European Heritage Award and it was reopened on September 1st 1995.
In keeping with the need to adapt to changing requirements the Trustees, in 2004, identified the need and the opportunity to undertake significant new works at Milk Market, in the heart of Limerick City, to make it into one the finest markets in Ireland. It was clear at that time that there was growing consumer interest in markets and the quality and range of new local produce that could be offered to the consumer. Since that time the Trustees worded on advancing their plans, which were realised in June 2010, with the opening the redeveloped Milk Market as an all-weather, all year round market space, accommodating major markets on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; occasional markets at other times; a new Food Pavilion and events.

Star Feature: Keith O Donnell

2010-06-22T12:38:00.000-07:00

Check back soon for a detailed feature of Keith O Donnell from Kileely who was convicted last week for sex with a minor.

Mobile Post: Test Two

2010-06-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

This is a mobile post. If mobile posting works out i will update the blog on a more regular basis. All mobile posts will be marked. This is a test post. Check back soon for more.

Advice For All Meteor Mobile Customers

2010-06-04T03:09:00.000-07:00

This post will be available on the blog soon. When it becomes available please copy and paste to Facebook, Myspace & Twitter etc. Please credit the Limerick Star www.limerickstar.blogspot.com

Statement From Sean O Niell - RSF

2010-06-04T03:08:00.000-07:00

HSE CUTBACKS HIT HANDICAPPED CHILDREN

Handicapped children are now being targeted by cutbacks
by the HSE in Limerick with families being forced to cope
without respite care, a local Republican spokesman said
today

Sean O’Neill from Quinn’s Cottages in Prospect said that
already vulnerable children at the Bawnmore facility have
been told that certain respite services will no longer be
available.

To date the canteen has been closed and a meal
service withdrawn and parents have also been
informed that they will have to pay for transport
costs in future.

The fact that the level of respite care is being so
widely affected is bad news for these parents who
have children in sheltered accommodation.

A number of parents have also been informed
that there will be cut backs in sheltered facilities
and the prospect of sending handicapped children
back to their homes is also a possibility.

The parents of handicapped children deserve
all the support the HSE can give rather than
have to suffer cutbacks and reductions in
basic services.

It is obscene at a time when politicians are
drawing down vast sums in expenses that
the HSE is cutting back on the services to
the handicapped. The fact is the expenses of one politician
would ensure the provision of these services
for all the children affected.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Blast From Limerick's Past - The History Of St Mary's Band

2010-06-04T03:02:00.000-07:00

St. Mary’s All Ireland Fife & Drum Band, Limerick.

By Patrick J.McNamara, Hon Life Member.

www.limerickhistoricalpublications.com

In the autumn of 1885, just twenty years after the end of the American Civil War, St. Mary’s Fife and Drum Band was founded. From its humble beginnings in the Yellow Driller on the Kings Island, it progressed next to Nicholas Street then onto Barrington’s Mall, Fish Lane and finally in 1922 the new band room was built in Mary Street. The brainchild of Patrick ‘Todsy’ McNamara, an Abbey Fisherman, many of who formed the original band.

Among the founding fathers of the band were Paddy Salmon, Steve Collins, Patrick and Michael McNamara (two of the famous McNamara’s Band quartet) Paddy (Halley) Kennedy, Jack Gogarty, Jim Ring, Paddy (Sparrow) O’Donoghue and his two brothers, Ned Walsh, John Lynch, Tom Forward, Jack McNamara, John Hayes, Jim Doyle, Gerry, Michael and Jimmy Frawley.

The musical talent of the band must have been unique, at its first attempt in September 1885, the band won the All Ireland Championship under the baton of maestro Steve Collins. The band line up on that occasion was J. Hayes, J. McNamara, J. Ring, J. Sullivan, T. Forward, J. Gogarty, J. Donoghue, P. McNamara (Bandmaster) J. O’Donovan and J. Salmon. Other championship successes were to follow; Limerick 1908, 1909, 1919; Waterford 1911, 1912; there were no contests during World War I or the years during the Anglo – Irish and Civil Wars.

The Great War saw the involvement of members of the band and the death of three of them. All three were members of the Royal Munster Fusiliers and all three were killed in action within six months of each other in 1915.

The band again achieved success at Limerick in 1927, 1928, and 1930. Cork in 1931, Limerick 1947. In 1963 and 1964 the band were again winners at the Limerick and Waterford venues. Dublin 1965 and Waterford in 1975 where the band “stole the show", winning 1st prize in all categories as well as the prize for Best Conductor, the late George Tweedle. In 1988 the band was again successful under the baton of John McNamara. There are only three surviving members who won six Republic of Ireland Championships with the band—Paddy ‘Whacker’ Casey, Jack McGrath and John McNamara.

In 1985, the late W.W. Gleeson, a local historian and honorary band member wrote the following passage in the bands centenary commemorative booklet published that year: I well remember the early days of 2RN (Radio Eireann) when listening in St. Mary’s Band room to parish-born Paddy O’Donovan–Reid, recording to the accompaniment of his wife, the former Ms Elizabeth Clifford his favourite piece, Bird Songs at Eventide, The same afternoon, two young officers from the Army School of Music, called to the home of Patrick Salmon, seeking his aid in the collection of traditional Irish ballads and classical music, at the request of Col. Fritz Brasse. As was to be expected from a man of Salmon’s kind-hearted nature, the request was granted.

In 1922, a proposal was made to visit America with the intention of taking part in the famous New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade; alas, due to civil unrest in the City, this was not to be, it would take another 70 years for the dream to come a reality! It finally happened In March 1992. The bands first American engagements were in New Haven and Meriden, Connecticut, where they participated in the local St. Patrick’s Day Parade; this was followed by the fulfilment of their 70-year-old dream, to play in the New York Parade on St. Patrick’s Day. This was an experience to be savoured and never forgotten.

During their American tour the Band journeyed to Glastonbury, Connecticut, to pay tribute to a fellow ex-band member, Michael Danford, who had emigrated to the United States some years previously. Presentation were made on behalf of the band to Michael, who delighted in hearing the band playing some of his favourite marches, alas, Michael is now longer with us. Beannacht De lena anam.

During the Band’s visit to New Haven in 1992, they established strong links with the Stony Creek Drum Corps (who visited Limerick in 1996). The Stony Creek Band was formed in 1886, one year after the foundation of St. Mary’s Band. The American contingent also included top representatives from several other American marching bands including Lancraft and the Westbrook Drum Corps. Also included in the group were members of The Connecticut Governor's Guard, they were welcomed in a special ceremony held in St. Mary’s Band Hall. The visitors made presentations to St. Mary’s, including greetings from the Governor of Connecticut, the Key to the City and various gifts of band memorabilia; their American hosts also presented them with photographs and citations. St. Mary’s in return presenting their American guests with similar mementos from Limerick. In his welcoming speech, the St. Mary’s Band President, Jack McGrath, noted that North Haven was a fishing area in Connecticut and the relationship between the two bands was appropriate because St. Mary’s Band was originally mainly made up of old Abbey Fishermen.

Another first for the band was the official opening by Junior Minister Willie O’Dea in 1993 of the St. Mary’s Band Museum. The museum features all the memorabilia, trophies and prizes won since 1885, covering 120 years of music by St. Mary's. The museum was named in honour of Patrick McNamara, the person who first had the vision to suggest developing and building their own band room and dance hall.

Michael Burke, The band’s Honorary President up to the time of his death, was also honoured and remembered by having one of the display cabinets named in his memory. An appeal at the official opening was made to the general public who may have any artefacts associated with the band to consider donating them to the Museum. Junior Minister Willie O’Dea, in his remarks at the opening said “It’s great to see tradition, particularly in this historic part of Limerick being preserved in such a wonderful manner ". Band President Jack McGrath added “it was up to the present members to keep the tradition going and pass it on to those coming in after them”

The band is recognized world-wide due to its participation in the International Band Parade, held in Limerick every year, during St. Patrick’s week. The following is a translation of an article from the French journal Flutes du Monde, published 1993:

A fine example of the Irish flute & drum band is provided by a remarkable hundred-year-old band, The St. Mary’s All-Ireland Prize Band in Limerick. The band (founded in 1885) won the All-Ireland Championship for flute & drum bands twelve times between 1885 and 1947 as well as the Republic of Ireland Championship in 1963, 1964, 1975, 1986 and 1988. In 1992 the band put into effect a project proposed in 1922: a trip to the U.S. to take part in the New York St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The band now has 30 or so players. The repertoire of the St. Mary’s All-Ireland Prize Band includes classical pieces, marches and traditional Irish tunes.

Since its foundation in 1885, the Band has had just five Presidents. They are Patrick McNamara, Paddy O’Mahony, Michael Burke, Aidan Hurley and Jack McGrath. Some of the honorary members include W.W.Gleeson, Joe "The Dane" Hayes, Frances Condell, First Lady Mayor of Limerick, Jim Kemmy, Christy Nash, Isle of Wight, Monsignor Bourke and Jack County of Hew Haven, Connecticut.

Loyalty to the band is reflected in the long service given by its members; Paddy "Whacker" Casey who is the longest serving member, with over 65 years service and Colm McGrath former Vice President and current Honorary Sec. for the last 55 years.

Ever since its foundation in 1885,St. Mary’s Fife and Drum Band has honoured the unique custom of parading through the ancient Parish of St. Mary’s on New Year’s Eve and thence to St. Mary’s Cathedral to ring the old year out and the New Year in. It may not be the longest established Band in the City of Limerick but it holds the unique distinction of continuous establishment ever since its foundation; an unrivalled record. The Band can be rightfully and justifiably termed a great Parish and Limerick musical institution.

The first Sunday in November is a day set aside by the band for a Mass of Remembrance for deceased members, celebrated in St. Mary’s Church. In the story of St, Mary’s Fife and Drum Band, proud tribute must be credited to the numerous members who helped to keep the continuity of the band together for over a century.

Some of the past and present members who gave very long service to the band include:

Christy Nash (75 years), Gerry Clancy (73 years), Michael Burke (67 years), Paddy Casey (66 years), Michael Hayes (64 years), Sean Meehan (63 years), Miko Ryan (60 years), Colum McGrath (55 years), Michael Kelly (52 years), Jim Ring (45 years), Jack McGrath (43 years), Joe Sheehan (43 years), Aiden Hurley (42 years), Cyril Kiely (42 years), Paddy Kennedy (40 years), Tony McGrath (37 years). John McMahon (38 years), Joe McNamara (34 years), Jackie Harris (33 years), Christy Kiely (31 years), Kevin O’Donnell (31 years), Sean Cronin (30 years), Christy O’Connor (30 years), Derek Mulcahy (30 years), Noel Malone (30 years), and Gary O’Brien (30 years).

Most notable Conductors and Bandmasters from 1885 to the present:

Steve Collins, Pat McNamara, Jim Ring, Patsy Salmon, Miko Ryan, Christy Nash, Danny Flynn (uncle of Limericks famous poet and author, Criostoir O’Flynn), Gus McNamara, George Tweedle, Jimmy Daly, John A. McNamara and Derek Mulcahy

McNamara’s Band

My name is McNamara, I'm the Leader of the Band,

And tho' we're small in number we're the best in all the land.

Oh! I am the Conductor, and we often have to play

With all the best musicianers you hear about to-day.

There are few who are not familiar with the well know musical composition, McNamara’s Band. But how many know the world-wide celebrated musical ensemble got its name from four Limerick Brothers: Patrick, John, Michael and Thomas, all of who were born in the latter part of the last century in Meat Market Place, Old Thomas Street, off Athlunkard Street.

All four brothers played in one row with St. Mary’s Fife and Drum Band. Michael, a Boer War veteran, was an instructor and sergeant in the Royal Munster Fusiliers. He retired with the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major, and died in Devon, England in 1962.

John was a member of the 2nd Battalion, Royal Munster Fusiliers and was also attached to a regimental band. He previously had served in the South African Campaign and re-enlisted in August 1914, at the outbreak of World War I. On 9th May 1915, he was killed in action, at the Battle of Aubers Ridge in France; on that day, 139 members of the 2nd Battalion Royal Munster Fusiliers, including 30 Limerick men, were also killed. After the battle, none of the bodies were recovered; they are commemorated on the Le Touret` Memorial, Pas de Calais, France.

John was posthumously awarded the 1914 – 15 Star, the Victory Medal and the British War Medal.

On 18th July 1965, Thomas McNamara - the last of the quartet - paid his second and final visit in 64 years to the spot where he was born and reared. In May 1978, he passed to his eternal reward, the last member of the McNamara brother combination that had won the All-Ireland Championship in 1895.

Of Patrick, musician and composer, it could be said that there were few who could claim to be his peer, with the honourable exception of his good friend and neighbour, Patsy Salmon of Church Street.

Patrick was the bandmaster on the occasion of the 1895 championship. In 1905, when he emigrated to the United States, he carried with him this great musical tradition, where his band continued to be known as "McNamara’s Band." Reunited with his brother Thomas, who arrived in the States in 1901, the combination soon caught the imagination of a great songwriter and so, the famous ballad was born. Thomas returned home just before the out-break of World War I and joined the British Army; after the war he returned to America. Thomas was one of a group who helped to smuggle Eamon de Valera out of Ireland to the United States during the troubled days of 1920

In latter years, the McNamara Trio cut many records for Voralion Records: Thomas on the piccolo, Patrick on violin and Patrick’s daughter, Eileen on the piano. In 1921, The Aeolian Co. cut a number of other recordings.

The death of Thomas McNamara in 1978 ended the world-renowned saga of McNamara’s Band. Those who gave it the name and the musical life had all gone to their eternal reward.

Copyright & Credit: www.limerickhistoricalpublications.com & www.limerickslife.com

Two People Arrested

2010-06-04T02:46:00.000-07:00

Two people have been arrested and taken to Roxboro Garda station, after being caught with knives, cash and former legal highs. The arrests were made after Gardai stopped a car during a routine Garda check at the Roxboro Shopping Centre after 9.00 PM last night.

The legal highs seized were once legal until Mary Harney put a complete ban on them back in May. This should serve as a reminder to anybody who may have bought the once legal highs when they were legal, that they are no longer legal. If a person is caught in possession of the former legal highs they could end up with a big fine and/or a lenghty prison sentence.

Some Hope For Family Of Missing Limerick Man

2010-05-31T09:26:00.000-07:00

The family of missing Limerick man Aengus 'Gussie' Shanahan believe they are close to locating his body after receiving an anonymous call on a confidential line set up on the 10th anniverary of his disappearance last month.
The Shanahan family made an appeal for information on Radio Limerick and through other media organisations in April as they continued to hope for some news on their sons disappearance.

Gussie's father Bob ( a retired bank manager ) is certain the anonymous call was made by the same person who called with information six years ago.
The caller suggested that 20 year-old Gussie had been involved in a skirmish that went too far and told the family to concentrate their search on a specific area of Limerick City.
However, Bob says they need more information and hope to hear from the caller again

For further information check out www.missing.ws

Sunday World Pub Spy Comes To Limerick

2010-04-19T09:18:00.000-07:00

The Pub Spy from the Sunday World newspaper recently made a visit to Limerick, see what they thought of the pubs they called to.

5 pints to The Steering Wheel

4 pints to The Square Bar

3 Pints to The Launch

2 pints to Frawley's Bar

When the full article becomes available online i will post it here check back soon.

Statement From Joe Lynch - (RSF)

2010-04-19T09:13:00.000-07:00

NUCLEAR PLANT HAS POTENTIAL
FOR VOLCANO TYPE DISASTER

The current severe restrictions on air travel and the loss to the
people, airlines, tour companies and indeed the general economy
by the Icelandic volcano eruption highlights danger of such major
disasters but also brings into focus the potential for damage from
establishments such as the Sellafield nuclear plant across the Irish
Sea, a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra Weston in
Limerick, the RSF chairman in the south side of the city said that
while the current focus is on the fallout from the Iceland volcano
the danger from Sellafield is also a disaster waiting to happen.

There have been serious scares from Sellafield and indeed leaks
into the atmosphere of radio active material but the real danger
is from a meltdown and no one seems to be taking the potential
of such an incident seriously he said.

The fact is Sellafield is just a short distance across the Irish Sea
and if a volcano in Iceland can close all European airspace just
what would the implications be for a similar incident from a
nuclear plant?

Now is the time to draw up a major emergency plan in
the event of a spill from this British nuclear plant because
it does not have a good safety record.

There is no use waiting until a nuclear incident happens.
A plan for coping with such an eventuality must now be
drawn up and the safety of Irish people placed at the top
of the political agenda.

www.rsf.ie or www.rsflimerick.com

The Bus To England

2010-04-16T09:56:00.000-07:00

People in Limerick effected by flight cancellations are taking the bus to England. Bus Eireann in Limerick have reported a huge rise in demand for its Irish sea service due to flights being grounded over volcanic ash. Thousands of people are making alternative decisions due to ongoing flight cancellations.

Limerick Video's

2010-04-15T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have come across some videos of Limerick on YouTube, the videos were uploaed on the Limericks Life YouTube Channel. To watch the video please copy and paste the link below into your browser, the channel also contains other related content.

http://www.youtube.com/user/Limerickslife

There is also a Limericks Life website online which has great content about Limerick on it's website, to visit the website log on to www.limerickslife.com

Limerick Events

2010-04-15T07:33:00.000-07:00

LIMERICK CITY MACRA is a social club for young people. Macra consists of a nationwide network of 300 clubs with 6 key areas of activity: sports, travel, public speaking, debating, performing arts, community involvement and agriculture. The vehicle for all this is your club. LIMERICK CITY MACRA will be meeting in Collins Bar Dooradoyle Wednesday 14th April at 8:30pm. NEW MEMBERS EVERY WEEK.

If you have an event that you would like listed on the Limerick Star for FREE, please e-mail all deatils to limerickstar@gmail.com

Pike Rovers Thrown Out Of FAI Junior Cup

2010-04-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

A leading soccer club in Limerick is considering its legal options after being thrown out of the FAI junior cup. Pike Rovers could seek legal action in their bid to be returned to the league.

The FAI Senior council today upheld an appeal by Tipperary team St Michael's against the result of a quarter final match between the teams which was won by Pike Rovers. The decision was based on the eligibility of one player.

Pike Rovers have not ruled out the involvement of the high court, as the club committee prepares to meet later tonight.

The secretary of Pike Rovers Gerry Smith has said "no decision will be made until all club members have been consulted".

Motor Madness - Joe Lynch (RSF)

2010-04-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

CALL FOR PUBLIC TRANSPORT INSTEAD
OF MINISTERIAL MOTORCADES

The convoys of Ministerial cars speeding through urban areas
on busy roads is a potential danger to other motorists and the
practice must be curtailed, a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein
said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra Weston in
:Limerick said that the most recent case he came across was on
Thursday last when the 26 County Administration Justice Minister
was in Limerick.

In the mid afternoon the Ministerial convey swept along the main
Limerick to Dublin road and it was akin to a United States
Presidential motorcade, he said.

The reason seemingly why the Minister was in Limerick was to
inspect or unveil a plaque but his hurry to leave the city was only
too obvious to other road users.

In fact for such a visit surely the politicians could use the train.
At at time when the Green Party is in Government and some of
their Ministers cycle to work, the practice of these large
motorcades must be questioned.

Not only is it a waste of public money there is an inherent
danger to members of the public who are also using the
main roads.

The use of police outriders on these occasions is purely
for show and they serve no useful purpose. It is time that
the politicians came down to earth and used public
transport.

www.rsf.ie or www.rsflimerick.com

Blast From Limerick's Past

2010-03-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

Profile Of A Limerick Showman.

A proud �soda cake�, Joe Malone was born in Thomondgate and spent his youth around the Island Field, now known as St. Mary�s Park.

��It was here in St. Mary�s Parish that I first started to sing. Every night a crowed of us would gather at one of the local street corners to sing in harmony. Musical talent was in abundance in the area.��

One of Joe�s first jobs was as a pageboy in the Savoy Theatre, Bedford Row. The year was1949, post Second World War, and Joe who was not yet 14 years old, began a career which was to influence the reminder of his life.

��My love for the cinema began, a love which has continued to this day,�� said Joe, who admits to still being a cinema addict when as a Pageboy I watched three films every day except Sundays when all cinemas remained closed.

��As a cinema employee I also had free entry to all other cinemas in town.��

Joe�s family were also involved in the cinema as several of his brothers worked as Pageboys in the Savoy.

Room
This period could be regarded as a boom time for entertainment in Limerick city with ten cinemas in the town catering for audiences of 7,500 every night. ��Such was the popularity of the cinema in that area that many of these theatres recorded full houses regularly.��

Joe recalls the Tivoli and the Thomand Cinemas- the famous �bug houses� as they were known- which were the haunts of the real cinemagoer.

��The pattern was, Thomand on a Monday night, and the Tivoli on a Tuesday night, and this was a lifetime tradition.�� A sure sign that all the popular cinemas were full when you would see the discerning cinema goer heading downtown towards the Tivoli or the Thomand.��

Admission was cheap- four old pence and seven old pence and some people went twicw a day.

Fantasy
��The movie world of our era was based on fantasy. We went for entertainment and we believed everything we saw without question.

��It was taken in poor taste if you mentioned the films of Charlie Chaplin or the Marx brothers as your favourites as they were regarded then as �B� type films- they were the ordinary persons� heroes. Today they are regarded as first class films.��

Joe is totally against violence in the movie world. ��It is difficult to come to grips with the amount of violence that is portrayed today. In the early days the cinema was fantasy, purely a means of escape and entertainment. With the introduction of violence in the movie world everything changed.��

Live theatre was also featured regularly at the Savoy where Joe assisted many of the all-time greats including Jimmy O� Dea, Maureen Potter, Josef Locke and Eamonn Andrews. These were known as the Cine-Variety days. Cinemas were heavily taxed and the more live shows presented, the less tax the cinema had to pay.

Seeing these live shows imbued Joe with a flair and a great love for the theatre.

After leaving the Savoy, Joe went to work in Ranks where he helped to form the Shannon Mills Male Voice Choir. Soon after their formation the choir performed on RTE radio in a programme titled, ��Beginners Please.��

The choir also performed at the Savoy with the No. 1 Army Band and with famous continental soprano, Madame Elaix Paix.

Joe was also a member of the Augustinian Choir under Fr. Oliver O� Brien.

Trained
After his vast experience with these choirs, Joe decided to have his voice trained. His teachers included Mrs. Baker, O� Connell Street; Eithne Pearse Troy, Michael O� Higgins and Anne Marie O� Sullivan who were based in Dublin.

Later he went on to win a gold medal at the All Ireland Feis Ceol, a silver medal at the Sligo Feis and the Sligo Cup for Operatic Singing. Joe also won the Todd Cup for German Lieder at Feile Luimni.

Television was his next big step with regular features on the Joe Linnane and Brendan O� Reilly show. Joe also featured with the Limerick Singers who recorded their own programme from Cork which ran for six weeks on Radio Eireann. He toured Germany with the Limerick Singers.

In the late1970s, Joe was featured in a film with Makem and Clancy at Bunratty Castle which has been shown all over the world.

He regularly produced shows at the Belltable Arts Centre, Limerick and describes the Belltable as the last grip we have on live theatre here in Limerick. ��If the Belltable were to close, Limerick would die as a theatre city forever.��

Joe feels that if we are to capture the interest of the young people theatrically and then develop this interest we must do so while they are still at school.

��Theatre must be portrayed as lively and exciting and The Belltable must be commended for their selection of plays . Also they are not adverse to giving local playwrights a chance. This modern theatre should interest all young people.��

St. John�s Temperance, St. Michael�s Temperance, the College Players, the mechanic�s and the Rural Drama Players were the natural haunts of the theatre fans in the area.

Regular
Many well known opera companies visited the Limerick area on a regular basis. Joe attributes these visits as a mark of our quick recovery foodwise after the Second World War- this prompted the companies to visit here in preference to other European countries.

��Mac Liammoir and Hilton Edwards were regular to the area. However, their favourite place was the Colisseum.��

Joe, famed also as a well known publican from 1971 to 1982, at his premises in Denmark Street, simply known as �Joe Malone�s.� ��The pub was closely associated with traditional music in Limerick and many poetry readings were also held here.��

Visitors to the region always included Joe Malone�s in their itinerary as did the All Blacks rugby team in 1979.

��Michael McNamara of RTE 2 fame began here with his first interview.��

Joe has contributed several articles to the Limerick Journal including one titled, ��The Leaving of Thomondgate.��

A keen gardener, Joe now devotes much of his time to this favourite hobby - reading.

''I am at present reading the short stories of Harry Secombe and J.B Keane's short stories are among my favourites.''

Joe loves the entertainment business and for him it�s not a business but a deep and affectionate interest, which visibly comes from the heart.

This post is copy right of the Author Joe Malone.

St Patricks Day Theme 2010

2010-03-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

The Limerick St Patrick’s Day Parade 2010 is set to be one of the biggest ever seen in the city. Crowds in excess of 60,000 are expected to line the O’Connell Street route to watch Ireland’s second largest parade.

The theme for the St Patrick’s Day Parade is ‘I Love Limerick’ and parade performers are being encouraged to wow the crowds with the things they love most about our great city.

This is an opportunity to display our civic pride and to celebrate all that’s great about our culture and heritage.

All sporting, cultural, community, business and social organisations are invited to take part in the event which takes place on Wednesday, March 17th.

RTE Sham - Joe Lynch (RSF)

2010-03-14T10:16:00.000-07:00

LIMERICK PRIME TIME A SHAM AND CHARADE

The RTE Prime Time programme on the Regeneration
of troubled areas in Limerick was a sham and a
charade unworthy of investigative journalism a
spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra Weston
the RSF chairman in the southside of Limerick said the
programme was an insult to the people the Regeneration
Boards are supposed to assist.

The fact is the Boards have lost the confidence of the
people of the areas where crime, drug dealing and anti
social behaviour are rife.

I am speaking out as a former member of an advisory
committee to the Board. Because of a lack of concrete
progress I resigned in protest. The Boards are now
more concerned with public relations and media coverage
than in doing the job given to them by the politicians.

The latest abuse of those living in hope of a new future
free from the crime gangs was the Prime Time programme.
Officials from the Board were seen driving through the
Clarina Park area of Ballinacurra Weston. They did not
even get out of their expensive cars to talk to the local
people.
Like some Roman Pro-Consul the Regeneration Board chief
drove through a troubled area but never once stopped
to walk among the ordinary people.

The Prime Time programme however served one useful
purpose...it showed how far removed the Boards have
become from the long suffering people they are
supposed to serve.

Good Friday Confirmed As Match Day

2010-03-01T09:48:00.000-08:00

Good Friday has been confirmed as the day Munster will take on arch rivals Leinster in Thomond Park. The city usually benefits hugely for Munster's home matches, however it is not to be this year, as pubs around the city will loose out due to licencing laws, which permits the sale of alcohol on Good Friday in pubs.

Cllr Gerry McLaughlin (Labour) said "its a pity the match is being played on Good Friday"

Cllr Maria Byrne ( FG ), whose family own and operate Bobby Byrnes's Bar in the city has said "the Limerick economy will loose out hugely and the atmosphere wont be the same as previous match days in the city"

The Mayor Of Limerick Kevin Kiely ( FG ) has blasted it as,

"outdated" and "stupid" laws which prevent alcohol being served on Good Friday.
We have to move on from this situation. As far as I am concerned, these laws are outdated and ridiculous, and if we have to compete as a modern European city, we have to forget about these stupid laws"

The only Establishments allowed to sell alcohol on Good Friday in Ireland are hotels. They are allowed to sell alcohol to their guests staying at the hotel and to customers eating in the hotel restaurant.

Star Spots

2010-03-01T02:07:00.000-08:00

The Gardai in Limerick have welcomed the new digital radio system which cannot be hacked into according to, telecommunication expert Sgt John Delaney who said the new system cannot be hacked into by criminal elements. The Chairman of the Joint Policing Committee Cllr Liam Galvin welcomed the new system also. Over 600 new digital radios will be issued to Gardai across Limerick city and county. The Limerick Garda division is the first outside Dublin to receive the new digital radios. Supt Frank O Brien welcomed the new radio system in the fight against serious crime in the city.

A woman was taken to hospital after a seven car accident on the Raheen exit to the M20. The accident happened in the very early hours of Sunday morning. The woman's injuries were not life threatening and it is believed she was released from hospital hours after the accident.

The Minister For Justice Dermot Ahern T.D. ( FF ) has praised the success rate of the Gardai in Limerick in solving serious crime. He was speaking in the Dail after Kieran O Donnell T.D. ( FG ) called for extra Gardai for Limrick city.

Mobile Post Test

2010-02-25T04:19:00.000-08:00

This is a test post for Mobile Posting. If mobile posting is suitable for this blog, i will be updating the blog more regularly. All posts written in this format will be marked Mobile Post.

Limerick Sports Clubs

2010-02-23T03:30:00.000-08:00

The Spring time is here and Summer is not far off, hopefully we will get a nice warm sunny Summer this year. This is the time of year when many people think about joining a sports club for themselves or signing their children up to a club. I have been searching around for a list of Limerick clubs, after much time spent searching, i found a very good list on the Limerick Leader Newspaper website, the list includes lots of different sports clubs such as Horse Riding, GAA, Soccer, Tennis and lots more. The list includes a website link for all clubs. Have a look at the list below and if you are interested in joining any club, then contact the club directly.

Limerick Sports Clubs List.

GAA clubs

Ahane GAA www.geocities.com/ballybrickengaa/

Camogue Rovers www.geocities.com/camogueroversgaa/

Cappamore GAA www.geocities.com/cappamoregaa/

Claughaun GAA www.hoganstand.com/ronanburke/claughaun.htm

Crecora/Manister GAA http://crecoramanistergaa.ie/

Croom GAA http://croomgaa.com/

Doon GAA http://doon.limerick.gaa.ie
Effin GAA http://www.geocities.com/effingaa/

Galbally GAA http://www.geocities.com/galballygaa/

Galtee Gaels http://galteegaels.limerick.gaa.ie/

Glenroe GAA http://www.glenroegaa.com/

Kildimo GAA http://homepage.eircom.net/~kildimogaa/

Kilteely GAA http://www.geocities.com/kilteely_dromkeen_gaa/

Knockainey GAA http://www.knockaineygaa.ie/

Knockane GAA http://www.knockane.com/web/

Milford GAA http://www.milford.limerick.gaa.ie/

St Pauls, Mungret http://www.mungretstpauls.ie/

Na Piarsaigh GAA http://napiarsaigh.limerick.gaa.ie/

Newcastle West GAA http://newcastlewestgaa.csn.ul.ie/

Pallaskenry GAA http://www.pallaskenrygaa.com/

Patrickswell GAA http://www.patrickswellgaa.com/

St Patrick's GAA http://www.stpatricksgaaclub.ie/

Fr Casey's GAA http://www.frcaseysgaa.ie/

Pallasgreen GAA http://pallasgreen.limerick.gaa.ie/

UL Hurling http://www.ul.ie/~hurling/homepage.htm

Limerick GAA site http://limerick.gaa.ie

Rugby

Munster Rugby www.munsterrrugby.ie

Bruff RFC www.bruffrfc.com

Shannon RFC www.shannonrfc.com

Young Munsters RFC www.youngmunster.com

Garryowen RFC www.garryowenrugby.com

UL Bohs RFC www.ulbohs.com

UL Bohs Video Blog www.ulbohemian.wordpress.com

Old Crescent RFC www.oldcrescentrfc.com

St Senan's RFC www.stsenansrugby.com

Soccer

Limerick 37 www.limerick37fc.ie

Pike Rovers www.pikeroversfc.com

Sunderland FC www.sunderlandecho.com

Holycross AFC www.holycrossafc.com

Golf

Castletroy Golf Club Castletroy
061 335753

Limerick Golf Club Ballyclough
061 414083/ 415146

Adare Manor Golf Club Adare Manor, Adare
061 396204

Limerick County And Country Club Ballyneety
061 351881

Foynes Golf Club Foynes
069 65522

Killeline Golf Club Cork Road, Newcastle West
069 61600

Abbeyfeale Golf Club Dromtrasna Collins, Abbeyfeale
068 32033

Horse Racing

Limerick Race Company plc, Greenmount, Patrickswell
061 320108
www.limerickraces.ie

Tennis

Limerick Lawn Tennis Club www.lltc.ie/LLTC/Welcome.html

Catholic Institute Athletic Club http://homepage.eircom.net/~catholicinstitutehc/aboutus/about_us.htm

Fencing

Limerick School of Arms http://www.skynet.ie/~nvl/lsa/main.php

Sub Aqua

Limerick Sub Aqua Club www.limericksubaqua.com

Blast From Limerick's Past

2010-02-23T03:12:00.000-08:00

Packet and Tripe - Limerick's Cavier
By Billy Mulqueen

France has snails, London has bubble and squeak, Scotland has haggis, Holland has cheese, Germany has frankfurters, Itialy has pasta, Dublin has coddle but Limerick has packet and tripe. Or had. It is a dish little eaten in these affulent days, McDonalds and Burger King have triumphed over a dish that was a staple food for many a Limerick family up to about 30 years ago. It was the McDonalds of its day.

It was a dish that transcend class barriers, rich or poor, it was eaten with relish by all.

To the exiles over a certain age, the mere mention of packet and tripe was enough to bring a wistful longing to the eyes and palate of most exiled Limerickmen in lands far away.

The "shop factories" where the packet and tripe was bought were in the oldest part of the city...Kings Island.

There was the Barrett family in the "sandmall" they were renowned for their packet and tripe in the early part of the last centuary, but the most famous and, the only one I remember, and the last to go, was Treacys.

Tracys was a cottage on a street called Courthouse lane, off the sandmall. A latched door gave way to a stone flagged room, whitewashed and divided by a counter. Large buckets held the packet and tripe.

Tripe is sheeps belly and is very much an aquired taste. The nuns in the local St. Marys convent had Treacys scrape (prepared) a special belly for Sunday and a "well-in" Treacys customer might, on a rare ocasion, and as a great favour, get a piece of the much coveted "nuns belly".

Treacys were the original owners but it was later run by Jim "packet" O'Halloran, who is credited with the immortal words: "Its 3 o clock, and not a belly in the house scraped yet".

A time honoured way of cooking tripe is to chop in into small cubes and steep in water overnight. Then, cooked in water, its cooked again a second time in milk with onions and breadcrumbs and the packet added with a knob of butter.

Jim Kemmy, a local historan and scholar, wrote about packet and tripe:" Packet and tripe, washed down with strong sweet tea has been found to be easily digestable and rests gently on the stomach, especially one ravaged by an excess of alcohol. For this reason the dish is very much in demand after a weekend "feed of porter" has rendered the stomach hostile to other forms of nourishment Packet and tripe is reputed to give a "lining" to the stomach so the dish has been traditionally been a weekend treat, a distintive Saturday night/Sunday morning ritual."

Packet is a blood sausage,or pudding and dark in colour. Sheeps' blood is poured into a skin taken from the intestine of the sheep, with spices and chopped onion added and boiled in a vat. Thereafter boiled again in milk with the packet and breadcrumbs.

Packet and tripe no longer comes from Limerick but is brought from Cork a few times a week and a small number of butchers sell it to an older and older customer base as each year passes. The younger generation would never eat the dish, prefering instead to eat "fast food" with ingredience that is made from god knows what.

But packet and tripe was an honest food, it was an "in your face" what you saw was what you got. And for a hundred years and long before, it helped to make life a bit more bearable in poverty stricken streets and lanes of the city in long gone days.

A little addendum. a sideline of Jim "packet" O'Halloran was that he used to sell an oil, derived from "trotters" (sheeps feet) as a hair restorative -Im not kidding. It is MOST unlikely that this oil was effective in restoring hair,but he did a roaring trade, and as a Kings Island wit remarked,"It might not work, but it does makes colourful patterns on the pillow.

The text of this post is copyright of the author Billy Mulqueen

Star Spots

2010-02-23T03:03:00.000-08:00

The Limerick Star received various e-mail scams in the last few days stating that our e-mail address won a cash lotto and a new car. This is a known scam, so the best thing to do if you get a similar e-mail is report it as spam to your e-mail provider.

The Mayor of Limerick Kevin Kiley (FG) has blamed the Green Party for Limerick loosing its cabinet minister in Willie O Dea T.D. (FF), after last week Mr O Dea stepped down as Minister For Defence, Peter Power T.D. (FF) stated this week that Willie O Dea dedicated his whole life to Irish politics. Whilst Willie himself stated in an interview on Sunday with the Sunday World Newspaper that he will be back in the future at cabinet level.

Willie O Dea Tape Recording

2010-02-18T05:31:00.000-08:00

The Limerick leader has released a controversial tape recording of Willie O Dea T.D. (FF). The tape has been live since 1.00 PM today on the Limerick Leader website. To listen to the recording log on to www.limericktoday.com

10 Years Later And Still Missing

2010-02-15T02:02:00.000-08:00

Aengus (Gussie) Shanahan (Limerick)

Aengus (Gussie) Shanahan

Missing since 11th February 2000 in Limerick City.

Born: 23 Jan 1980

Height: 5' 10

Hair: Brown

Eyes: Blue

Build: Thin build

Aengus (also known as Gussie and when he was a child he used to sign his name 'Aonghus') Shanahan was last seen at 22.30 on Friday 11th February 2000, and is on cctv leaving Coopers Bar (now Eric's Bar) on Joseph Street, Limerick at 23.30. (See photo of him taken that day at 15.31) He was born in 1980 and is 5ft 10 inches and walks with a slight stoop forward: eye colour is blue. He was wearing dark blue jeans with a blue top and a red, white and blue adidas jacket. If you have any information whatsoever, please call in Strictest of Confidence a new helpline number Tel: 085 2092119 or Email. find.gussie@gmail.com or write to PO Box 55, Limerick Leader, 54 O’Connell Street, Limerick

STRICT CONFIDENCE IS ASSURED

or contact Roxboro Garda Station: Tel 061-214340

We are still no wiser as to what happened to him. Somebody somewhere may know something. We are appealing to people to come forward with any information that they have. What may appear as trivial to one person may be of vital importance to us.

Copy & Paste the following link into your browser for a picture of Gussie Shannahan. http://www.missing.ws/_missingPersons/missingPerson.asp?id=45

Here is a personal appeal from Bob and Nancy Shannahan, Gussie's parents,

"I can't grieve. I can't move on. My life has been a daily torment for the past ten years," she said.

"After ten years of not knowing I am sure I could say 'I forgive you' to someone who may have harmed my son. Just please tell me where he is. Tell me what happened to him."

His father said the mental anguish of not knowing is most painful. "I've always had an open mind on the whole thing, and we've never had any clue since the last time he was seen down that lane," he told the Limerick Leader.

"My mind was open to everything, my view always was that I mightn't like it but at least I can manage it. Not knowing – it's very hard to manage it."

There have been rumours about Gussie's disappearance over the years but nothing precise, nothing definite. "We are not interested in rumours, we are looking for positive information," Bob said.

"Somebody knows and they might have been frightened to come forward in the past but any information that will come will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

"There's the telephone, the email and the PO Box, and they are all independent of the police," Bob said.

If you have any information on Gussie you can visiting www.missing.ws and contact Gussie,s uncle in confidence or you can use the new methods of contact below.

Information will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Telephone number: 085-2092119
Email address: find.gussie@gmail.com
Or write to PO Box 55, Limerick Leader, 54 O'Connell Street, Limerick

Or of course you can contact the any Garda Station.

Portrait Of A City

2010-02-15T01:57:00.000-08:00

A fascinating new publication featuring paintings, sketches and the earliest detailed maps of Limerick will shed light on the development of the city and the events that shaped it, writes Jennifer Moore
HAVE you ever wondered why the heart of Limerick city today is not centred on its historic foundations at St Mary's Cathedral as a Viking port in the tenth century?

Or why the city held such strategic importance in the seventeenth-century turmoil when Limerick citizens endured three sieges?

Or what the city may have looked like if its walls and gates were not taken down in the mid-eighteenth century?

The answers to all these questions, and more, can be found in the Royal Irish Academy's latest publication, 'Irish Historic Towns Atlas, No. 21, Limerick' by Eamon O'Flaherty.

The publication offers a fascinating insight into the city's development over the centuries and the major events that shaped it.
The atlas comes in two main parts: large loose sheets of maps and views of Limerick and a text section containing an essay describing the urban development of the city from its Viking foundations to the start of the 20th century.

Several thematic maps project Viking and medieval Limerick onto a modern map, pinpointing sites such as the original Viking longport near Athlunkard, the Frank House of Knight's Templar, or the long since disappeared, St Nicholas's Church.

There is also an extensive gazetteer of topographical information that breaks down into 22 sections that range from population, to the street names, factories, areas of primary production, hospitals, entertainment and residences, for example.

To accompany the text, and help bring Limerick's urban history to life, there are 27 historical and reconstructed maps and 12 views and photographs of Limerick depicting its growth, shape and importance as a trading post and one of military significance.

This work on Limerick is the fruit of many years of research by author and Limerick man, Dr Eamon O'Flaherty, a former Crescent student who now lectures in UCD.

The atlas traces the complicated histories of Limerick's three distinct urban cores: the Viking and Anglo-Norman Englishtown located on King's Island; the medieval Irishtown off the axis of Broad Street and John Street; and the Georgian Newtown Pery where today's city is concentrated.

Limerick is exceptionally well endowed in terms of illustrations, maps, plans and accounts of the city. The three earliest maps are from about 1590, pre-dating Dublin's earliest known map by 20 years.

Each map, varying in style, captures Elizabethan Limerick and shows individual houses, gardens, as well as the defences and religious houses. The originals are to be found in Hunt Museum, Trinity College Dublin and the National Archives in London, so it is fascinating to be able to compare each of these cartographic wonders side by side.

Common to each is the characteristic hourglass shape of Limerick city that continues through to the late eighteenth century. On closer examination of the beautifully crafted Hardiman map (TCD), a windmill and a hound may be seen chasing a bird in Irishtown; such details as these will entrance history lovers.

When compared to the later eighteenth-century maps and plans, the development of the three urban cores in the city is quite apparent.
Other sources, such as the Civil Survey, commissioned by the Cromwellian government and completed in 1654, supplies the basis for a detailed reconstructed map of mid-seventeenth century Limerick.
It provides the reader with a snap shot of the city that highlights the different types of houses and cabins, and also positions the mills, forges and tan houses of early modern Limerick.

Much of the information from the early religious churches of the city have been taken from the famous Black Book of Limerick. It records churches such as St John's dating back to 1200. The later thirteenth-century Dominicans, Augustinians and Franciscans built their substantial religious houses on the west side of King's Island.

King John's Castle has always featured prominently on the urban landscape of Limerick and has had many functions through its near 800 year history, and was even granted to the citizens for ten years in 1427.

The castle, while domineering at times, proved to be expensive for the crown to maintain with many enhancements added to it over the centuries, as it had to withstand many assaults, sieges and undermining.

The walls of Limerick, dating to c. 1175, have been vitally important to the protection of its citizens over the centuries. They were constantly being rebuilt, extended and strengthened up to the late seventeenth century when the city was famously besieged in 1690 and 1691.

Limerick was one of the last fortresses in Ireland to have its walls removed in the 1760s. The city was expanding and needed more space for its growing population.

It was at this point when a new town, adjacent to the medieval one, was planned out by Edmond Sexton Pery, a prominent politician.

He inherited vast tracts around the city and commissioned Christopher Colles to plan a new town on his land that became known as Newtown Pery.
This sparked a flurry of building on the grid system to specifications akin to the Georgian developments in Dublin and London, and still characteristic to Limerick today.

Important buildings, such as the Custom House (now the Hunt Museum), the Matthew Bridge and the canal were built on his land. All of which improved communication and transport to Newtown Pery.

Added incentives for people to move from Englishtown and Irishtown were lower taxes, better amenities, modern housing, drainage and entertainment facilities. The Newtown was even governed by a separate body for nearly 40 years, and Limerick became the second fastest growing city in Ireland after Belfast until about 1830.

In no other town in Ireland can the divide between medieval lanes and winding streets and the grid system be seen so clearly. Colles's extraordinary plan of the city is reproduced in colour in the atlas and shows Limerick at the dawn of its greatest change – shifting the heart of the city from King's Island to Pery's land.

In terms of the various factories in the city, Limerick proved to be a bustling trading post. From mills dating back to 1,200 the city had countless granaries, stores and warehouses earning it the epithet 'The granary of North Munster'.

The nineteenth century saw a number of bacon curing factories dotted around the city including Matterson's and Shaw's. Limerick also had many markets around the city, the first documented in 1108.

The printing trade is well represented in the city, the earliest known printer was established by 1673. However, it did not become a popular trade to enter until the later eighteenth century when large numbers of printers established newspapers and printing houses, notably on the corner of Bridge Street and Mary Street where John Ferrar's Limerick Chronicle was founded in 1768, the Republic's longest running newspaper. Indeed the Leader's Office is recorded on a detailed insurance map of the city from 1897.

Longstanding Limerick institutions such as Cruises Hotel, and Todds and Cannock's department stores feature in the atlas. Their histories are traced as drapery stores in the early nineteenth century to their expansive department stores by 1900.

In the entertainment section of the gazetteer, we learn of the numerous theatres, club houses and dance halls that were the social focal point for Limerick people from the eighteenth century.

The sporting element of the city was also present in the nineteenth century with numerous gymnasiums, tennis and ball courts, bicycle, athletics, rowing and tennis clubs all forming in the second half of the nineteenth century.

For more on the project see www.ria.ie/projects/ihta, or contact Irish Historic Towns Atlas, Royal Irish Academy, 19 Dawson Street, Dublin 2.
Irish Historic Towns Atlas, no. 21, Limerick by Eamon O'Flaherty is available in shops from the 6th of February and retails at €35.

Jennifer Moore is an editorial assistant with the Irish Historic Towns Atlas and also a Limerick historian.

Credit: Limerick Today - www.limericktoday.com

Worst Pub In Ireland

2010-02-15T01:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday the Sunday World took a go at Limerick, in its publication yesterday the Sunday World claimed The Mucky Duck in the city was the most lawless pub in Ireland. The full article will be available on the blog later today. Check back soon.

Sean O Neill ( RSF ) - Limerick Regeneration

2010-02-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

The 26 County Administration Defence Minister Willie O’Dea must be complimented for telling the truth in relation to the non payment of the 1.7 billion euro for Limerick Regeneration,
a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today

Sean O’Neill, from Prospect, a local RSF community activist said news will be devastating for the countless families in Limerick’s troubled estates who had looked forward to a bright new future free from crime gangs, arson, murder, violence and anti-social behaviour.

Many will recall the images of the fleet of shiny black Mercedes cars sweeping into the deprived estates of Moyross and Southill and Ballinacurra Weston and St. Mary’s Park all heralding a new dawn of enlightened local government and a vindication of the rights of people living in Local Authority housing.

Sadly the dream was only a mirage. The hope raised among the residents was merely words spun by well paid spin doctors. The tragedy is all the more depressing by the comments of the leaders of the failed Regeneration effort saying that private investment will come to the rescue. There is now way that private investment will make up the shortfall.

In effect private investment will engage in what can only be described as an ethnic cleansing exercise where families in local authority housing are evicted to make way for new private marinas, waterside apartments and leisure centres.

This awful image of privilege over people is the sad reality of regeneration in Limerick today. All those who promised false hope to people living with crime and violence should hang their heads in shame.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Fire At Hassetts Pub

2010-02-05T08:29:00.000-08:00

Gardai have confirmed the Army Bomb Disposal unit based in Cork will be in Limerick later this Friday to examine a suspicious object found at the rear of Hassett's Cross pub.
The pub was damaged by fire at around 4am this Friday morning. A considerable amount of smoke damage was caused.

Emergency services attended the fire at the pub close to Thomond Park at approximately 4:10am this Friday morning.

According to gardai, the fire was small, with only minimal damage caused. No-one was on the premises at the time.

Credit & Copyright: Limerick Today www.limericktoday.com

Statement From Des Long ( RSF )

2010-02-05T08:26:00.000-08:00

ECONOMIST FAILS TO CONDEMN REASONS FOR SHOPPING

A claim by a leading economist that cross border shopping is a factor driving young people to emigrate has been described as yet another tale from the Homer Simpson School of Higher Learning
by a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein.

Des Long from Cobally in Limerick a member of the RSF Ard Comhairle said that the assertion by Jim Power that people who shop in the Six Counties should save to visit their children in Australia is one of the most misguided theories to emerge from the economic brains trust in recent years.

The very idea that people who shop outside the 26 Counties are in any way contributing to young people emigrating is a farce.
The fact is that Jim Power never once reflected on the reason for the border or indeed why this false economic division exists. Instead he decided to focus on shopping and to link it to emigration.

There are many reasons for young people emigrating but the main one is a shortage of jobs in manufacturing and services and that fault lies firmly at the door of the job creation agencies.

Never once does this so called leading economist denounce the evil of partition nor the false divisions caused by the border imposed by the British Crown.

The island of Ireland operating as an economic unit could well achieve its full potential if there was unity and the natural entity operated on an all Ireland basis.

However partition enforced by the British prevents the achievement of this full economic potential and the outcome is the shopping that Jim Power condemns.

Instead of criticizing people trying to make ends meet it would be more in his line to expose the evil of political and economic partition

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Limerick Leader To Launch Digital Edition

2010-02-04T08:49:00.000-08:00

The Limerick Leader is set to launch a digital edition of its paper. The editor of the Limerick Leader has confirmed that there WILL be a charge for the digital edition. Is this a fair charge or not, before making your decision it would be worth to note that the Limerick Post have a digital edition online and its free. Below is the statement from the Limerick Leader.

We are sorry that due to logistical issues we have been unable to update the local notes in recent weeks.

While we do have a big selection of local stories online, updated many times every day, often every hour, we are of course conscious that many readers of the website - particularly those abroad - do enjoy reading the notes from their locality.

I'm afraid we cannot promise the immediate return of the notes online - but we are working on a project which would offer readers full online access to the Limerick Leader exactly as it is printed - every page of every section. There would be a charge for this service but it would compare favourably to the cost of buying the print edition.

We hope to bring you news of this in the coming weeks. In the meantime, we apologise for the absence of the updated notes.

ALAN ENGLISH
Editor
Limerick Leader

What does our readers think ? Send all comments to limerickstar@gmail.com .

Blast From Limericks Past - Todds Fire

2010-02-04T07:36:00.000-08:00

The text below is copyright of Limerick's Life www.limerickslife.com

The Todds department store occupied about four-fifths of a large city block fronting onto on O'Connell Street. On Tuesday, 25 August 1959, at 11 in the morning, a fire was noticed in the building. By 12:30 the entire block was a blazing inferno. Todds, Burtons, Liptons, Goodwins and Cesars were completely gutted. While Gayware, Cromers and Nicholas were badly damaged.
The rubble from the fire was taken to the baths on the Mill Road in Corbally. It was spread where the new estate is now ,alongside the city nursery where they grow the plants for the city. For years locals could see bits of the Todd's pillars sticking out of the ground.

The Text below is copyright of Noel Hanley

A personal account of the fire, courtesy of Noel Hanley {Noel Hanley recalls his time with the Irish Red Cross during the 1950s}

"It was during that time frame that Todds went up in flames, and we parked the Red Cross Ambulance at the corner of Bedford Row and O'Connell St. Our first priority was to evacuate the patrons from Sullivans Bar in Thomas St as smoke started to enter from the restrooms area. During this trek we also liberated some Hennessy's Cognac which was taken to the Ambulance, Mullany's Restaurant donated a large Churn of fresh tea, and this is when we went slightly wrong. We added the contents of our bottles to the churn, and it tasted pretty good! Now the bad news, I went to relieve the Fireman with the hose trying to dowse the flames above the jewelry shop next to Todds. As the firemen got replenished, we were slightly inebriated and suddenly the entire front of Todds facade crashed to the ground. We could hear a gasp from the onlookers that gathered, but when the smoke and dust settled we were both still erect aiming the hose at where we thought the window was previously. Lacking pressure in the hose, (The tide was out) we were unable to break the windows of the Hairdressers above Burtons Tailoring on the corner of William St. This is when we reverted to throwing stones to try and break the glass. Unfortunately, we could not hit the side of the building as the bricks we threw were landing and causing havoc in William St. Somewhere around this time, we lost one Fire tender, and resumed trying to prevent the telephone wires leading into William St Garda Station from melting completely. To those unfortunates who chained their bikes to the railings outside the station, the tires had melted to the footpath. Faced with a lack of hoses, no pressure, the fire raged on. I resorted to throwing a steel bucket filled with water through the Plate glass window of Burtons store front on William St. This enabled the fire to take control and burn the entire block from William St to Thomas St to ground level and below. The only remaining feature was a large safe on what was the second floor. Day's following they uses a helicopter to assist in demolishing what we failed to achieve. And a good time was had by all"

Missing Teenager Found Dead

2010-02-03T07:01:00.000-08:00

The body of a 17 year-old female was recovered from the River Shannon in Limerick city on Wednesday morning, following a three-day search of the river.

The body has been identified as Hazel Shannon, who had not been seen since Saturday last.

A day previously the deceased girls mother, made an emotional appeal on radio for anyone with information about her missing daughter to come forward.

Doras Luimni On Immigration Fees

2010-02-01T07:51:00.000-08:00

Below is a press release from the Doras Luimni website.

Increase in Immigration Fees
We are appalled to see the government once again reach into the pockets of the hard pressed tax payers of the country for what are essentially small returns in the context of the billions which are required by the state. The new €500 fee for long term residency is an underhanded revenue collection method attacking a small but significant sector of the work force that already makes a considerable contribution to the exchequer in tax and PRSI. By singling out this sector of the work force for further penalties on top of the already demanded fees for work permits (€500 annually), re-entry visas (€100), Garda registration cards (€150) and citizenship application (€950), all of which were highlighted in yesterday’s Irish Times, is unfair.
We ask that the government readdress its fee structures so that all members of society are treated equitably and according to their means.

Press Release Ends.

We would like to hear the opinions of our readers, on whether or not these fees are fair or too hard.

E-mail all comments to limerickstar@gmail.com

For more information on Doras Luimni log on to www.dorasluimni.org

Star Spots

2010-02-01T07:39:00.000-08:00

The leader of Fine Gael Enda Kenny T.D has pledged that Limerick will be represented at cabinet level if his party forms the next Irish Government. Mr Kenny made the pledge whilst on a visit to the city for the grand opening of the Limerick based offices of Sean Kelly MEP (FG).

The latest Figures from the Central Statistics Office show that the murder rate in Limerick has halved during 2009. There was a total of three murders in Limerick in 2009, compared to six in 2008. The Mayor of Limerick Kevin Kiely (FG) welcomed the news but added one murder is one too many.

For more news like this and other posts stay tuned to the Limerick Star.

Stay In Touch With Home

2010-02-01T03:57:00.000-08:00

Limerick.Com are offering a free service to people living in Limerick, people from Limerick but working away from home or anybody just interested in Limerick a free Limerick related newsletter. The newsletter is packed with local news, gossip and lots more and best of all its free.

It only takes two minutes to sign up for the newsletter, once signed up, you will receive a monthly newsletter direct to your e-mail inbox. To sign up or for more information on Limerick.Com visit the following links

To Sign Up For a Free Limerick Newsletter
http://www.limerick.com/limericknewsletterreg.html

For More Information On Limerick.Com
www.limerick.com

Volunteer's Needed For The Special Olympics

2010-02-01T02:42:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Special Olympics which is set to take place in Limerick are looking for volunteers. The organizers of the event are holding a number of volunteer information nights in the near future, details of which can be found in this post. The Special Olympics is a really good cause, and if you have any spare time you should consider volunteering.

Volunteer Information Nights.

Monday, February 1, 7pm: Strand Hotel, Limerick.
Saturday, February 6, 10.30am: Jean Monnet theatre, UL.
Saturday, February 13, 10.30am: Strand Hotel, Limerick.
Monday, February 15, 7pm: Strand Hotel, Limerick.
Wednesday, February 17, 7pm: Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick.
Saturday, February 20, 10.30am and 1pm: Jean Monnet theatre, University of Limerick.

The Special Olympics also have a website with information about becoming a volunteer, you can view the site by logging on to www.specialolympics.ie

Free Advertising For Non Profit Lottery's

2010-01-30T03:28:00.000-08:00

Do you run a non profit lottery for a football club, GAA club, charity or any similar non profit lottery ? If so, the Limerick Star is offering your lottery free advertising of lotto results on the blog. To get the ball rolling send us an e-mail to limerickstar@gmail.com

Letter From Joe Lynch (RSF)

2010-01-30T03:24:00.000-08:00

ORANGE CARD STILL IN PLAY IN SIX COUNTIES

Playing the Orange card seems to be the latest political game in the Six Counties with both Provisional Sinn Fein and the UK
Conservative party engaging the sectarian division.

It is political hypocrisy for the Provisional leadership of Adams and McGuinness to now use the spectre of the Orange card because their sell out and surrender has cemented the role of Loyalism in the Six Counties.

The question that must be asked is why Adams is surprised at the playing of the Orange card? To use one of his well known phrases: They haven’t gone away you know!

An even more drastic Orange move is now on the cards with the Unionist unity talks and the links to the UK Conservative party in time for the next general election. Many people tend to forget that the official name is the Conservative and Unionist party and this move is simply designed to re-inforce the position of those loyal to the Union.

The sell out and surrender of the Adams and McGuinness led Provisional Movement continues to play a central role in the normalisation of British rule throughout the island of Ireland.

Therefore playing the Orange card is simply yet another way for the British to exercise their control of the Six Counties and it should come as no surprise to the discredited Provisional Movement.

Yours etc

Joe Lynch,
Republican Sinn Fein

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Sex And Money - Des Long (RSF)

2010-01-30T03:21:00.000-08:00

BRITISH MONEY CREATES GREED CULTURE

The attempts by both the British Government and the Dublin
Administration to secure a deal on devolving policing powers
in the face of the money and sex scandals in the Six Counties
smacks of desperation, a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein
said today.

Des Long from Corbally in Limerick, a member of the Ard
Comhairle said that the ordinary decent people of Ireland
are shocked and disgusted by the activities of politicians
in the Six Counties.

The behaviour of leading figures in both the DUP and in
Provisional Sinn Fein falls far below generally accepted standards for those in public life and in leadership positions.

The fact is the political rot and the core of politics in the Six Counties is caused by British money and politicians are being bought off with cash and jobs and that encourages greed and
financial corruption.

In their haste to involve Provisional Sinn Fein fully in administering British rule in the Six Counties, the British provided endless funds and continues to do so in the current climate where political hypocrisy and corruption has been exposed.

The behaviour of both the DUP and Provisional Sinn Fein is now exposed as self serving and in their own narrow interest and it smacks of hypocrisy.

Both parties have compromised all moral right to govern and their activities now exposed means they should not be trusted to act in the interests of ordinary decent people. But this is not about the ordinary people of Ireland who deserve better from their elected politicians – this so called peace process is aimed at normalizing British rule in Ireland. It is a process that must be exposed and opposed by all true republicans.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Blast From Limerick's Past: RLO TV

2010-01-04T05:35:00.000-08:00

Remember RLO TV, the channel was local which featured many local radio personalitys doing TV shows, in many cases for the first time. The channel was associated with Radio Limerick One (RLO), the owner of the channel was Gerry Madden.

Videos speak louder than words, so have a look of these RLO TV videos which are hosted on YOUTUBE.

Video 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_lOsTmsk_E

Video 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=83vL-UNU-fc&feature=related

These videos are circa 2000

Enjoy.

Limerick Roads Warning

2010-01-04T05:24:00.000-08:00

The roads of Limerick continue to be in a bad way for motorists and pedestrian's due to bad weather conditions. Limericks main roads are not in the best of condition due to near freezing for the past two nights.

Secondary roads and housing estates are believed to be a lot worse. Gardai and the AA have advised people only to travel if they really have to.

For more information on the condition of Limerick roads visit www.met.ie

First Limerick Road Related Death Of 2010

2010-01-04T05:16:00.000-08:00

Noel Hayes (25) of Shannagolden in Limerick has become the first fatality on Limerick roads in 2010.

Mr Hayes crashed his car in the early hours of new years day, he was brought to the Mid Western Regional Hospital in Limerick and he died there yesterday from his injuries. He is survived by his family and friends, for funeral arrangements, please visit www.rip.ie

Statement From Joe Lynch (RSF)

2010-01-04T05:11:00.000-08:00

RESIST MOVE TO DOWNGRADE MURDERED MAYORS

The call to hold a separate commemoration for the murdered
Mayors of Limerick apart from the Easter Sunday ceremonies
by Sinn Fein Councillor Maurice Quinlivan has been criticised by a spokeman for Republican Sinn Fein.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra, the RSF chairman in the south side of Limerick said the proposal by the Councillor is yet another attempt to distance his party from their Republican past.

It is all very well for Provisionals like Councillor Quinlivan to engage in political revisionism with his party but when he now attempts to enlist City Hall in this process someone must cry halt,
he said.

What Maurice Quinlivan is now trying to do is to get City Hall do his dirty work and move the ceremonies for the two Mayors who were murdered by British forces away from the Easter time.

The Mayors, Clancy and O’Callaghan who were murdered by
British armed forces are remembered during the Easter Sunday ceremonies by all true Republicans.

The pretext that Maurice Quinlivan uses to move the event is that they may be remembered by other political parties. But this excuse is a mere charade to remove the men from the Republican roll of honour and align them with Fianna Fail, Fine Gael and the Provisionals.

It is important that this tactic does not work because it is all part of the current attempts by the political parties to normalise British rule throughout Ireland. We must not forget that the party of Cllr. Quinlivan has Crown Ministers as members – and these men serve the British Crown – the very same crown whose forces murdered the Mayors of Limerick.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

HSE Scandal Des Long (RSF)

2010-01-04T05:07:00.000-08:00

SCANDAL OF CHILDREN IN ADULT WARDS EXPOSED

The placing of young children in adult psychiatric units is one of the great unspoken scandals within the Health Service and finally it has been exposed in Limerick, a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Des Long from Corbally in Limerick a member of the RSF Ard Comhairle said that the latest report from the Mental Health Inspectors clearly states that the practice continues in the Mid West Regional Hosptial.

For a considerable time those with family experience of the psychiatric unit at the Mid Western Hospital have expressed their concern about the unit located there, he said.

Not only the level of care but the placing of young people in the adult environment gave rise for concern. Finally the latest report of the Inspectorate of Mental Health Services focuses on the issue in Limerick.

The inspectors found that a significant number of children had been admitted to the adult psychiatric unit at the Limerick Hospital despite long standing concerns that the practice was inappropriate and counter therapeutic for children.

For too long it has been a scandal that has been ignored and unspoken. But it cannot be allowed continue and go to go unchallenged like the clerical abuse issue.

Now is the time to ensure that adequate services are provided for these children and actions taken to ensure that they never again have to be placed in adult units.

Surely the measure of the maturity of a country is judged by the way it treats children. The 26 County Administration does not have a proud record in this regard but now steps can be taken to eliminate the scandal once and for all.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Exclusive: Update On Jimmy "Whirlwind" White Coming To Limerick

2009-12-22T05:03:00.000-08:00

Previously on the Limerick Star we reported that Jimmy White may be coming to Limerick to play an exhibtion match. We contacted Jimmys booking agent John Callaghan and he had to say the following on the matter,

"No booking has been made that we are aware of.

Jimmy always loves to come and play in Limerick so would always be interested in appearing there."

We will keep you updated on whether or not Jimmy is coming to Limerick, check back for any future updates when/if they become available.

Statement From Sean O Neill (RSF)

2009-12-22T05:02:00.000-08:00

CALL TO PRESERVE CLOTHING FACTORY ARCH

The preservation and restoration of part of Limerick’s industrial
history must be undertaken at the site of the former Limerick
Clothing factory a local community activist said today.

Sean O’Neill from Quinn’s Cottages in Prospect said that the
factory at Edward Street played a vital role in the story of
Limerick’s industrial development as it was the place where
production line methods were first introduced to the clothing
industry.

The arch to the entrance to the factory is still standing and
it must be preserved as a tribute to the workers of the city
clothing industry he said. We must not forget that under the
direction of Peter Tait Limerick occupied a leading place in the
story of the clothing industry. In fact the Limerick factory made
and supplied uniforms during the American Civil War.

I am in touch with the Limerick Civic Trust in relation
to the preservation of the arch at the former clothing
factory site. Contact is now to be made by the Trust
with the Limerick City Council. It would be a fitting tribute
to the workers of the city for the arch to be restored as a
memorial to all those who worked in the clothing factory.

In fact the clothing tradition of Limerick is being
carried on today by the Limerick School of Art
and Design and the Fashion School so the restoration
of the arch would be fitting.

This type of project can be done as witnessed by the
Recent replacement of the drinking trough by the City
Council at Ballinacurra.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Statements From Joe Lynch (RSF)

2009-12-22T04:58:00.000-08:00

Statement 1: FORMER PRIESTS CANNOT BE CALLED FATHER

The use of the word Father to describe priests who have been
convicted of child abuse should be discontinued by the media,
a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch, from Beechgrove Avenue, Ballinacurra Weston in
Limerick, the RSF chairman in the south side of the city said
that the continued use of the term Father for these priests is
an insult to the rest of the clergy.

The fact is a priest who engages in child abuse and who is
convicted by the courts must surely forfeit the respect and
title that goes with his role in society.

A Garda convicted of any criminal offence is referred
to as a former Garda. Surely the same rule should be applied
to priests by the media.

For any man in a position of authority to abuse that
position is bad enough but when it comes to priests
abusing young children who are in their care there
should be no ambiguity about their status.

They have not only broken the criminal law code,
they have tarnished canon law and brought shame
and disgrace on the Catholic church as a whole.

Surely to refer to these convicted men as father
is an abuse of the term and an insult to genuine
and upstanding and law abiding priests who
continue to minister to their followers in these
difficult times for the Church.

It is time that there was an agreed policy by the
media in relation to referring to these convicts
as Father and surely they must be described as
former priests.

Statement 2: NON JURY COURT SHOULD BE RETIRED
The moving of one court from an old building to a new
purpose built complex has been presented as if the non-
jury Special Court has been abolished, a spokesman for
Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra
Weston in Limerick said the spin put on the move of the
Non Jury Court from Green Street to a new location was
that the practice is ended.

Far from it, in fact the Special Non Jury Court is fully
active and geared against any Republican who is brought
before it, he said.

The Special Court was established in the 1970’s by former
Justice Minister Desmond O’Malley who has since retired
from political life. However his legacy in the Special Non
Jury Court lives on and it is used daily to endeavour to crush
any Republican sentiment or opposition to the Stormont
Agreement.

It is time that this abuse of democracy was also retired
and some degree of fairness restored to the court process
when it comes to Irish Republicanism.

The ongoing attempt to crush the sentiments of Irish
Republicanism by police harassment and intimidation
will fail and unless the root cause of conflict in Ireland
is addressed, there will be continuing opposition to the
British presence.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Just A Few Notes

2009-12-22T04:49:00.000-08:00

The blog hasn't been updated in the last week for a number of reason, one, i am doing other things at the moment but i will try to update more regularly and two i want to write more posts/stories that is not available in the regular Limerick websites such as Limerick Today.

I hope to get my own domain name in the new year up and running, i also hope to have some advertising going to promote the blog in the new year. I am thinking of the Limerick Independent as it is a cheap and successful format of advertising, i am also hoping to get flyer's into every house in Limerick in the new year.

Gardai Appeal For Missing Limerick Man

2009-12-12T09:13:00.000-08:00

By David Hurley
GARDAI are appealing for information on the whereabouts of Kilteely man Francis Green, who has been missing from his home in the city for the past fortnight.
Mr Green, 48, who is also known as Francie, was last seen on Saturday, November 28, between 7pm and 9pm near his basement flat on Hartstonge Street.

Gardai at Henry Street have launched a major investigation into the circumstances of Mr Green's disappearance and are appealing to the public for information about his whereabouts.

The Shannon-based coastguard helicopter has been assisting in the search operation and uniformed gardai have conducted house to house inquiries in the area where Mr Green was last seen.

Detectives at Henry Street are continuing to view CCTV footage from cameras in the city centre in a bid to trace his movements.

"We have a lot of footage to sift through, and, hopefully, that will shed some light, but we are concerned about his safety and his whereabouts," said a member of the investigation team.

Mr Green is originally from Kilteely near Newcastle West, but he had been living in the city for some time.

He is described as being 5'8" in height and of slight build. He has brown receding hair and a moustache, and when last seen he was wearing light jeans, a dark sports jacket and white runners.

Henry Street Garda Station can be contacted at 061-212400.

The text of this post is copyright of the Limerick Leader www.limerickleader.ie

Joe Lynch (RSF) - On The Budget

2009-12-12T09:05:00.000-08:00

SAVAGE BUDGET HITS POOR AND ILL

The savagery of the Budget against the most vulnerable
and deprived section of society will place the health of
many people in danger, a spokesman for Republican
Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra
Weston the RSF chairman in the Southside of Limerick
said that taken with the increased charges for medical
card prescriptions, the Budget is a severe blow against
the elderly and those on limited social welfare incomes.

We now have cases where people on medical cards
will be paying between five and ten euro for their
medicine, he said.

This sleight of hand charge is like a three card trick
conman bamboozling his audience to find the lady.
The end result is that people on low and limited
incomes are done out of extra money for medicines.

As a result their overall income is reduced and
this has a huge effect on their already straightened
standard of living.

The temptation will be there to forego medicines
because of the increased cost and this in turn will have
a detrimental effect on the health of already ill
people.

Instead of punishing those who caused this crisis,
the 26 County Administration have rewarded the
bankers and the high earners and placed an intolerable
burden on the shoulders of the people who can least
afford it. It is time for this Administration to be
booted out at the next general election.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Exclusive: "Jimmy "Whirlwind" White May Be Coming To Limerick"

2009-12-07T07:08:00.000-08:00

We have received an e-mail stating that professional snooker player Jimmy White may be on his way to Limerick in 2010. Nothing has been set in stone, however there is a strong possibility that Jimmy White will play an exhibition match in Limerick in 2010, as he has an Irish date in the INEC in Co. Kerry in the new year www.inec.ie . Jimmy White is a well known professional snooker player, and has been in the news as of late for his appearance on I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. He made it to the finals of the 2009 ITV/TV3 show. He came third in the show. Who he would play if he comes to Limerick - its unknown, but it could be either a snooker or pool match as Jimmy is also an accomplished pool player.

More as/if it becomes available.

(This Post Was Posted On The Blog At 3.18 PM Irish Time )

The news in this post is exclusive to the Limerick Star. Do any search on the Internet and you will see, this is NOT available anywhere else. You are welcome to use this news post for your Blog/Website providing you quote the original source which is The Limerick Star.

Use the following text if using this content for any other site.

Source: Limerick Star www.limerickstar.blogspot.com

Update: Furniture Store Destroyed By Fire

2009-12-07T06:58:00.000-08:00

The owner of the furniture store destroyed in Limerick over night has spoken to the Limerick Leader about the fire at his business. Here is what Tony Cowell had to say

“The building is completely destroyed. We have lost everything. It was a fully stocked showroom and we were in the Christmas rush,” said Mr Cowell, adding the business was just beginning to “see a positive turn” after a challenging period for Irish retailers.
For people who have orders with us, I want to tell them we will be able to fulfil customer orders,”

People who have orders with the store have been guaranteed by Tony Cowell owner Eastpoint Furniture And Flooring, that their orders will be fulfilled.

More as it becomes available.

Entertainment: Brendan Grace Cancels Limerick Show

2009-12-07T06:10:00.000-08:00

Comedian Brendan Grace was force to cancel his upcoming Limerick Show, which was due to take place this Friday night in the South Court Hotel. He was rushed to a Dublin hospital last week after developing gangrene, which is associated with diabetes, which he has suffered with since 1994.

At first it was feared that Brendan Grace would have to have his leg amputated, but doctors performed surgery in a bid to save his leg, and the operation was a success. He is recovering well at the moment.

Tickets for Friday nights show will be valid for December 28Th when he appears at the South Court Hotel in Limerick. The Dublin born comedian owns Brendan Graces Bar in Killaloe.

No Progress On Jim Mulqueen Investigation

2009-12-07T04:05:00.000-08:00

Previously on the Limerick Star we reported the death of a man in his 90s who was found dead in his home in Co. Limerick, at the time Gardai could not rule his death as due to normal circumstances, and neither could they rule out foul play. More than a month after Mr. MulQueen's death there is still no progress with the Investigation.

The detailed results of a post mortem on Jim MulQueen's body are still being awaited on by the Gardai investigating his death. The investigation is still going strong and all leads are being followed up, but as of yet no progress has been made in the Investigation.

Anybody with information is being asked to contact either the Rathkeale or Askeaton Garda stations on the numbers below.

Rathkeale Garda Station: 069 67205
Askeaton Garda Station: 061 392102

Update: Furniture Shop Destroyed By Fire

2009-12-07T03:56:00.000-08:00

The Shop destroyed by a fire over night in the East Point Business Park on the Ballysimon road has been named as, "Eastpoint Furniture And Flooring".

It has also been revealed that the Limerick Fire Brigade had to be backed up by Fire Units from Co. Clare to bring the Blaze under control.

Fire Officials are yet to confirm the cause of the fire. The scene remains sealed off by Gardai.

More as it becomes available.

Emma O Driscoll Interview With Áine Fitzgerald

2009-12-07T03:51:00.000-08:00

RTE children's TV presenter Emma has just written a children's book 'The Misadventures of Max' the proceeds from which go to charity
I'm an awful home bird. I'm in Limerick whenever there is an opportunity. I'm working this Saturday but I always try and get home whenever I can because I have a house in Limerick with my boyfriend. In Dublin I mainly miss my family - you're home is your home and that's where my family are.

I am feeling terribly sorry for an awful lot of people at the moment. The flooding is horrific, especially at Christmas, because that's when people become very house proud- visitors are calling around, and people are hoping to put up their Christmas tree and the lights. Unfortunately, a lot of people aren't going to get to do anything like that this Christmas. More so than anything I feel very, very sorry for the people who have lived in their - I won't say houses because it's their homes - for 40 years or 50 years. I'm not saying that I want it to happen to me because if it happened to me in the morning I would be devastated, but you would cope and you would move on and start again. But for somebody who has been in their home for 40 or 50 years all your memories are washed away. What are you going to do? You can't recreate all that.

I am a city girl and I like being a city girl. A lot of people say 'oh where do you go out in Dublin - the big smoke?'. I don't go out a lot in Dublin - I don't hugely enjoy it to be honest. I miss the general social scene in Limerick because it's really good. It's not that there is anything wrong with it in Dublin - it's just that I prefer going out in Limerick. I prefer the craic, the people are better craic. I love live music. Limerick is brilliant for live music. There is loads of it available in Limerick and that's one of the big things I miss is the real live scene of music - there is nothing like it.

I wrote my first book when I was 11 or 12. It was a story book called My Amazing Journey. It was like an Alice in Wonderland story. I wrote it in school. The teacher at the time Sr Ita encouraged us to do it during out Christmas holidays. When I was in first year, I was about 13, I wrote another book of poetry - there was about 25 poems in it. I wrote a poem about Limerick in it - The Beauty of Limerick it was called. My music teacher put music to it and I sang for all the Americans in Adare Manor.

It was great to get it on the Toy Show. That's really what opened all the doors for us to get the book into all the nationwide stores. The Toy Show is one of the biggest plugs of the year. I had set myself the task during the summer of literally writing it - getting it done, tweaking it, editing it. There are eleven poems in The Misadventures of Max all together - such as Max the Musician, Max the Magician, Max the teacher, Max the tennis player and Max the tv presenter. The money goes towards the Baby Max Wings of Love Fund. It's a 100 per cent donation from all involved and I want to thank everyone who has supported it.

I get up at about a quarter to seven in the mornings at the latest, and I would be in RTE for about quarter to eight. I am on camera from nine o'clock until around one o'clock. It depends on the recording. If it goes out live you would be on longer, like I was on air today until about two. It just depends on the schedule. Coming up to Christmas you have to record a bit more to get ahead and then after Christmas, we do a lot of live stuff. It's basically so people can take Christmas holidays.

An ambition which is in the back of my head is - I would love to be in an Irish film. I really would love that. Something like the Showbands where you could record all the music.

Limerick people are so positive. They push you forward so much. Like all the messages I have got on Facebook over the last week since the book came out. All my friends in school as well as people I would have never have met in my life have left messages on Facebook saying that their little boy or little girl have written the book down on their list for Santa. It's so nice.

You can't be in children's television long-term - there is a lifespan. The natural progression, I suppose is to go to a slightly older age category eventually. I'm perfectly happy at the moment. I'm really enjoying working on the younger children's section. This year they have changed it whereby Socky goes to school half way through the show so that in the second half of the show I am by myself so there is a lot of focus on writing. I'm writing songs every week.
Interview: Áine Fitzgerald

The text of this post is copyright of the Limerick Leader www.limerickleader.ie

Patrick Collison Former Limerick Student

2009-12-07T03:28:00.000-08:00

Patrick Collison, a former Limerick city student and Co, founder of Auctomatic has developed a Wikipedia App for the iPhone. It allows users to search and read the entire online "encyolpedeia" of Wikipedia. The best thing about this App is that you need no Internet connection to browse the Wikipedia content. According to Patrick, it can be used anywhere, even on a plane or a mountain. The App costs e6.99 and can be downloaded form the address below,

http://www.apple.com/itunes/affiliates/download/?itmsUrl=itms%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2FWebObjects%2FMZStore.woa%2Fwa%2FviewSoftware%3Fid%3D288141564%26mt%3D8%26partnerId%3D30%26partnerId%3D30%26siteID%3DMm0tVuSi_Fw-TXj_A08eH9DLiPAPdfUzfA%26ign-mscache%3D1

Just copy and paste the address in to your browser to buy the APP.

For more information on the App and Patrick Collison visit the following links.

App Information: http://collison.ie/wikipedia-iphone/

Patrick Collison's Website: www.collison.ie

Google Ads & Other Blog News

2009-12-07T03:07:00.000-08:00

I have decided to remove google ads from the Blog, all except one.

The text number for the Blog will be available in the next day. I am hoping people that may read the blog will text on any news stories they have and i will try confirm them and put them on the Blog.

I am hoping to move the Blog to its own Domain Name after Christmas. Im looking into a website designer and a hosting package.

I have found it hard to get Links of this Blog on to other Limerick related Blogs to help promote the Limerick Star. If you know of any, please let me know.

I am still looking for writers for this Blog, if your interested e-mail me at the address at the end of this post.

I was away from the blog over the weekend, thats why there was no news.

Remember to follow us on Twitter @ www.twitter.com/limerickstar , and finally if you read this blog tell other people all about us.

You can e-mail me at limerickstar@gmail.com

Tragic Mountain Climber Listed In New Book

2009-12-07T02:57:00.000-08:00

Give Me Irish Hero's is a book by Author and Adventurer Ian McKeever is to be launched in Limerick next week. The aim of the book is to acknowledge people for different reasons who have became Irish hero's.

Ger McDonnell who was the first person to scale K2 is listed in the book. Ger tragically died while descending the mountain. The chapter on Ger, which has the full support of his family will detail his live right up until his tragic death.

To buy the book or for more information visit the following link for a list of stockists.

http://www.givemeheroes.ie/index.php/get-the-book

Or buy the book from www.amazon.com

St Vincent De Paul Christmas Appeal

2009-12-07T02:46:00.000-08:00

The recent Floods and continuous unemployment have added to the demand for services offered by the St Vincent De Paul charity in Limerick this Christmas. The charity will make up to 100,000 house calls throughout Ireland in the run up to Christmas. The SVP commence a week long fundraising initiative beginning today Monday 6th December 2009. It is asking the public and all businesses to support all fundraising activities.

Joe Dillon who is the regional president of the SVP said, "the loss of the social welfare Christmas bonus is a major concern for many families:"

The SVP in Limerick is based on Hartstonge Street, you can call to their office to make a direct donation or make your donation at one of the fundraising events or online by visiting www.svp.ie

Furniture Store Destroyed By Fire

2009-12-07T02:38:00.000-08:00

A furniture shop at the East Point Business Park on the Ballysimon road has been destroyed by a fire overnight. The alarm was raised after 1.30 AM this morning. Two ambulances, the Gardai, and four units of the Limerick fire brigade attended the scene. It took them well in to the early hours of this morning to bring the blaze under control, they prevented the fire from spreading to other retail units. There was no casualties, but hundreds of thousands of euros worth of stock was lost in the blaze. The scene is currently sealed off pending a Garda technical investigation.

Sean O Neill (RSF) On Brendan Kenny Of Regeneration Agency

2009-12-07T02:35:00.001-08:00

TIME FOR SERIOUS QUESTIONS FOR REGENERATION

The revelation that up to a half dozen jobs were given to
young people with links to officials of the Limerick
Regeneration Board with formal interviews is a national
scandal that is now being swept under the carpet, a local
community activist said today.

Sean O’Neill from Prospect said that the Chief Executive
of the Board Brendan Kenny cannot lightly dismiss the
story because it has all the hallmarks of jobs for the boys
syndrome.

For jobs to be filled without following formal laid down
procedure is one thing but for those who get the jobs
to have links to officials in the Board is a scandal.

The people of the area under re-development from
Prospect to Ballinacurra Weston and Hyde Road at
first welcomed the establishment and setting up of
the Regeneration Board as it seemed to offer some
hope for the future.

However in the years that the Board has fully
operational not much has been done on the ground
to improve the lives of the ordinary people in the
crime affected areas.

Instead of bring a new and improved quality of life
to the blighted areas, the Board to date has only
brought disappointment and disillusionment.

This latest example of jobs for the boys and girls
will further damage the already tarnished image
of the Regeneration Board. It is now time for serious
questions and honest answers.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Blog Template

2009-12-01T05:32:00.000-08:00

We are still working on getting the blog template back to "normal", since yesterday we have been working on the blog template and google ads, as i messed them them up, while i was doing or trying to do some work on the blog.

News will be VERY slow until further notice, however we will post twitter updates of all the news today, our twitter account is linked on the blog on the right hand side at the top of the page or you can follow us at the address below

Limerick Star Twitter: www.twitter.com/limerickstar

Sorry for the delay in bringing you the news today.

Blog Under Going More Work

2009-11-30T07:40:00.000-08:00

This will be one of the last posts for the day, as i have to do some work on the blog, i deleted some ads and messed up the template while i was experimenting. Its almost back to normal the blog that is but certain aspects will take up most of the day or whats left of it. However there will be twitter updates throughout the day. Normal service resumes tomorrow.

Dennis Leonard Dies

2009-11-30T04:32:00.000-08:00

Dennis Leonard (62) has died following an illness. Mr Leonard was one of the founders of the Limerick Civic Trust. He died yesterday morning. The LCT was the first in Ireland, its aim is to enhance the architectural heritage of Limerick through the renewal of historical buildings and cultural research. Dennis Leonard was one of the founding members in February 1983. His last official duty with the trust was to repoen the Richard Russell Drinking Fountain in the People's Park earlier this month.

Mr Leonard is survived by his wife Deirdre and daughters Rachel, Sarah and Kate.

For further information on the Limerick Civic Trust visit www.limerickcivictrust.ie

Dognapping In Limerick

2009-11-30T02:11:00.000-08:00

Two valuable Chihuahuas have been stolen from a house in Ballingarry Co. Limerick. The stolen dogs require daily medication otherwise they will die. This incident follows the theft of 14 Chihuahuas at the start of November in Kilmallock. The 2 dogs were stolen last Friday. That particular type of dog is very popular amongst young girls and is even seen "as the latest fashion accessory". From reading various online discussions, many people feel that the theft of the dogs is the work of the Traveller community, but of course there is no evidence to back these claims, and they could be completely wrong. Gardai at Newcastle West Garda Station have asked anybody with information to come forward.

Photos Of The Limerick Flood Damage

2009-11-30T01:58:00.000-08:00

Whilst looking at some Limerick related websites, i came across photographs of the damage the floods caused in various areas of Limerick. These photos are available to view on the website www.limericktoday.com , that website belongs to the Limerick Leader Newspaper. To see the photos copy and paste the link below into your browser.

http://www.limerickleader.ie/news/Limerick-floods-Aerial-photos-of.5860160.jp

There is a total of about 10 photos altogether.

Photo Source: www.limericktoday.com

Photos in the above link are copyright of the Limerick Leader www.limerickleader.ie .

Anthony Galvin Limerick Author

2009-11-30T00:56:00.000-08:00

Anthony Galvin Author of Family Feud, a book about Gangland in Limerick city, has just released his new book, entitled, The Cruellest Cut, Women Who Kill. The book is Anthony Galvin's second book. It details all the recent cases of women who kill in Ireland, from the Mulhall's to Catherine Nevin to Mammie Cadden and everybody in between. I have not read the book, but i am going to soon, so i will put a review up here when i have completed the book. For more information on the book or to buy the book, copy and paste the link below into your browser.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cruellest-Cut-Anthony-Galvin/dp/0717146758

The book is also available from Eason's, O Mahoney's and all other book shops.

Star Spots

2009-11-30T00:40:00.000-08:00

Limerick City Council are hoping that the repaired Christmas tree will be ready in the coming weeks. The tree was damaged after strong winds pushed it into the River Shannon. The repair work is estimated to have cost around 30,000 euro. A spokesperson from Limerick City Council has confirmed that no decision has been made as of yet whether or not to float the tree in the River Shannon after repairs.

Flood Warnings: Flood warning remain in various parts of Limerick, for the latest news on the floods visit www.rte.ie or www.met.ie .

Cllr: Diarmuid Scully (FG) has called on any gay politicians be it local or national to "come out", to read the full story visit, www.limericktoday.com .

A file is being prepared for the DPP in relation to the stabbing of a 15 year old school girl in Doon, Co. Limerick. 3 females, one in her twenties and two teenagers were arrested in relation to the incident. All 3 were arrested in Murroe, Co. Limerick, and later released without charge. It is expected that the gardai will recommend to the DPP that charges be brought against the 3 in relation to the stabbing.

Author David McWilliams has called on the Finance Minister Brian Lenihan to seek advice from Limerick billionaire JP McManus on the Irish economy.

News has been slow over the weekend, as news in general was slow. If you have any news, tips or whatever send them to us at limerickstar@gmail.com

Church Scandal: Statement From Joe Lynch (RSF)

2009-11-30T00:20:00.000-08:00

ALL PREVIOUS MINISTERS FAILED TO HOLD POLICE
AND CLERGY TO ACCOUNT FOR SERIOUS CRIME

The reaction of the 26 County Administration Justice Minister
to the scandal of abuse and cover up by the Catholic clergy is
a mere public relations exercise, a spokesman for Republican
Sinn Fein said today.

Joe Lynch from Beechgrove Avenue in Ballinacurra Weston,
the RSF chairman in the Southside of Limerick said the angry
declaration of the Minister that a collar will not protest priests
from the law rings hollow because all previous office holders
presided over the inaction of the police.

Limerick politicians must also shoulder responsibility for
the lack of enforcement. Desmond O’Malley in the 70’s,
Michael Noonan in the 80’s and the new EU Commissioner
in the 90’s all had control of the police force yet nothing
was done to tackle abuse and cover up in the Church.

The latest tough words from the Minister in relation to
past events must be contrasted by the current police
inaction in relation to criminal activity within the
Irish banking and financial sector.

All this tough talking from the Minister and the police
is mere window dressing and must be dismissed as
political hypocrisy.

The fact is the police and clergy colluded against the
ordinary decent citizens of the country by not
enforcing the law impartially and worse still allowed
the abuse and suffering of little children to continue.

If the Minister is serious he will unleash the police on
the corrupt bankers and enforce the law without fear
or favour.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Statement From Des Long (RSF)

2009-11-30T00:19:00.000-08:00

WREATH LAID FOR MANCHESTER MARTYRS IN LIMERICK
Local Republicans mark 142nd anniversary

A wreath was laid at the Manchester Martyrs memorial in Limerick
on Sunday to commemorate the 142nd anniversary of the hanging
of Allen Larkin and O’Brien in Salford Prison in November 1867

The gathering at the memorial in Mount St. Lawrence cemetery
was presided over by Des Long a member of the Ard Comhairle
of Republican Sinn Fein.

Annette Long laid the wreath on behalf of all local republicans
who still adhere to the principles of the Republican Movement.

The Manchester Martyrs—William Philip Allen, Michael Larkin,
and Michael O'Brien—were members of the Irish Republican Brotherhood
a movement dedicated to ending British rule in Ireland. The men were
executed after having been found guilty of the murder of a police officer
during an escape that took place close to Manchester city centre,England,
in 1867.

Allen, Larkin, and O'Brien were members of a group of 30–40 who
attacked a horse-drawn police van transporting two arrested leaders of the Brotherhood, Thomas J. Kelly and Timothy Deasy, to Belle Vue Gaol.
Police Sergeant Charles Brett, travelling inside with the keys, was shot
and killed.

Although it was claimed in their defence that Brett's death was
unintentional, Allen, Larkin, and O'Brien were found guilty of murder
and publicly hanged on a temporary structure built on the wall of
Salford Jail, outside Manchester on 23 November 1867

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

2 Men, 3 Murders

2009-11-26T03:07:00.000-08:00

Gardai investigating the murders of, Shane Geoghegan, Roy Collins and James Cronin have arrested 3 men in Wheatfield prison in Dublin. Both men were arrested in their cells at the prison on Wednesday morning.

James Cronin (20) was found buried in a shallow grave.
Roy Collins (34) was gunned down in his casino.
Shane Geoghegan (28) was gunned down in Dooradoyle.

Both men were brought to Lucan Garda station yesterday for questioning, the investigation is ongoing.

Over 170 Job Losses With The Closure Of Budget Travel

2009-11-26T02:57:00.000-08:00

Budget travel the largest tour operator in Ireland has closed with a total loss of 172 jobs throughout their operation. The tour operator had 17 retail shops in various parts of Ireland including one in Sarsfield Street in Limerick.

Its branch in the Crescent shopping centre closed last September. A "pro" liquidator was appointed by the courts yesterday afternoon. Flights booked by people departing from Shannon, Dublin and Cork between yesterday and Sunday have been cancelled.

It is unclear how many jobs have been lost in Limerick, but a total of 172 jobs has been axed throughout the 17 retail Budget Travel shops in Ireland.

Suicide Victims Remembered

2009-11-26T02:52:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS can be the most difficult time for a family who have lost a loved one to suicide.
And Limerick-based charity Console is offering people affected by suicide a chance to heal at its annual Celebration of Light this Sunday at 4.15pm.

The event will feature performances by Noreen Ni Riain and Amen, along with Kathleen Turner of the Irish Chamber Orchestra.

"It is a very beautiful service of light that allows families to remember loved ones they have lost through suicide," said Console's Paul Kelly.

"We will have a minute's silence, remembering those who have been lost to suicide. We light candles in their memory. It is an emotional service, but one that also heals."

Console's Celebration of Light will take place in the Augustinian Church in the city.

The ceremony will last for about 80 minutes and refreshments will be served afterwards.

Console run two separate helplines, for the families of suicide bereavement, 1800-201890 and the 24-hour helpline, 1 Life, for those under suicidal stress at 1800-247100.

Console House can be contacted on 061- 306792 / 307150, or log on to the website www.console.ie

The text of this post is copyright of the Limerick Leader. www.limerickleader.ie

Nice Reading: Remember John "The Man" Frawley

2009-11-24T06:05:00.000-08:00

Source: www.limerick.com
Author: John (JonJo) Johnston

The saga of John The Man & Walter Stanley

By John (JonJo) Johnston (ex-pirate)

Back in the golden days of pirate radio in the 70s & 80s, the people of limerick were truly blessed.

By switching on to Radio Lumni, you heard the best local radio programme, in some folk's opinion, that there ever has been.

Around 7.30 am, you would hear the soft tones of John The Man Frawley welcoming listeners to his station. John had the most incredible friendly intimate voice and in no time at all would soothe you and make you feel that you had a friend in your house.

He would relate all the local gossip and happenings about town, whom he'd met on his travels and what they had said. It must have taken him an hour to walk up William St.

Each day he would read out the news from the day's papers plus the horoscopes to keep you informed as to what was going in the world.

A godsend for people unfortunate enough to be confined to the house and cut off from the outside world as he brought all the news to them in his own inimitable way. You would feel that you were not alone. John was their lifeline.

Around 8am he would start his daily task of getting his meeces (the children) off to school, by roaring, 'get up out of it' to them. On would come crystal gayle singing- 'here i go once again with my suitcase in my hand'.

What was the weather doing? No satellites for John the man, a quick look out of the window and a guess at what was in store for us that day. Was sammy sunshine or ronnie rain on the way? Very sophisticated!!

His transport consisted of an old banger called the galloping maggot, (god knows where he got the name from) which had to be replaced often as it was always giving up the ghost!!

John had several features to his programme but one that was unique was his bit of fun with the listeners whereby he invited them to phone in to guess the title of the next song that he planned to play. The calls were numerous and he would tell them if they were warm, getting warmer or cold etc, in their guesses. Incredibly, when you consider all the possibilities that the listeners had to choose from, within about six tries someone had usually cracked it!!

But the show really excelled when the double act started with the appearance of walter stanley. Walter, a bar manager in Gus O'Driscoll's in Corbally, was a real live wire. Full of energy, he was quick and witty and the two-way repartee with John was electric and hilarious.

They created between them the illusion that they were broadcasting from an RTE or BBC type studio when Walter would roar out, 'yoohoo John, up there in studio four, I see you' and say he was giving him a wave when all the time they were hunched together in a little room.

'Any sca?', was always walter's enquiry when he wanted to know if John knew about any scandal that he, Walter, wasn't aware of.

'I heard you were seen last night, John, in a certain chemist shop' was Walter's way of saying that John had been spotted having a few pints in a certain licensed premises.

The listeners hung on every word they said, never knowing what they would come out with next.

John started his days in showbiz as a singer with the monarchs showband and his fine recording of Pearly Shells is still played locally. (I had the pleasure of doing so myself recently).

He immortalized Noel O'Connor, the butcher in Wickham Street, by christening him - the happy butcher- a name that still sticks.

At the end of John's programme he would announce that he was going walking about to, hopefully, get a few shillings from his advertisers to pay his bills.

The station had to close when an official broadcasting licence was given to someone else in Limerick but the legend of John the man frawley and Walter Stanley, (who both sadly were cut down in middle age), will live on in fond affection forever within the hearts of lovers of true local radio.

They were simply the best!! Thanks for the memories!!

Write To Santa

2009-11-24T05:59:00.000-08:00

The Limerick Leader is inviting all children from all parts of Limerick to write to or e-mail Santa Clause. So get writing your christmas letter today, and visit the following link to find out when Santa will be picking up yor letters and e-mails from the Limerick Leader.

http://www.limerickleader.ie/news/Calling-all-young-Limerick-Leader.5849543.jp

Irregular Posts Today

2009-11-24T05:13:00.000-08:00

There will be only irregular posts today as the blog is under going some work, google ads has also been added to the blog. This will not interupt the blog in any way in the future, as they are only basic ads and not popups. Twitter will be updated throughout the day.

Families Had To Leave Their Homes

2009-11-24T05:11:00.000-08:00

The Limerick Leader is reporting that up to 20 families in the Shannon Banks area of Limerick had to leave their home last night due to horror flooding. Check out Limerick Today for the full story.

Home Keyrings

2009-11-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

Homeless Organization Management Eire (HOME) is selling HOME keyrings, they cost 3 euro each and all profits go to HOME. I will post a picture as soon as i receive one. Please consider supporting this project.

For more information on HOME see the links below,

www.homecharity.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/homecharity
http://limerickstar.blogspot.com/2009/11/home.html

E: homecharityireland@gmail.com

Help Limerick Animal Welfare.

2009-11-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

Gourdon, a Foxhound, and Otto, a Boxer, are two very special dogs that have come to us in the last week needing extra care and treatment. Our funds are at an all-time low but we simply could not turn them away. Please read their special cases in the Re homing section, and if you can at all, please consider making a donation towards their vet's bills.

To make a donation log on to www.limerickanimalwelfare.ie or Phone them on 063 91110.

Statement From Des Long (RSF)

2009-11-23T08:11:00.001-08:00

The drift of people from the 26 Counties into the 6 Counties to
avail of lower prices in the run up to the Christmas season seems
to have upset the Minister for Enterprise and Employment and
Tanaiste Mary Coughlan who is now ranting against the move,
a spokesman for Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Des Long from Corbally in Limerick, a member of the RSF
Ard Comhairle said that the latest outburst from Minster
Mary made reference to Irish people spending money and
thus aiding Her Majesty the British Queen of England.

The fact is Mary and her colleagues in the 26 County Administration
have done more to aid the influence of Her Majesty in the
past few years than all the successive revisionist assemblies
since Partition he said.

It is the highest form of political hypocrisy for the Minister to
lecture people on where to spend their money. The fact is if
people feel they are doing better by buying in the Six Counties
then they will do so and no amount of bad mouthing them from
Mary Coughlan will change their minds.

It would be far more beneficial for the Minister to spend time
on ensuring that the Irish consumer is not continually ripped
off by cross border pricing. In fact the whole mess is caused by
partition and it is time that the British declared their intention
to withdraw from Ireland.

Instead of criticizing people for crossing the border and buying
from Her Majesty it would be more helpful to the Irish consumer
if Minister Coughlan ensured that there is no excessive mark up
on sterling goods in Irish stores.

Instead of protecting Irish consumers the Minister engages in the
sort of double talking out of the side of her mouth that puts her right
up there with the Provisionals and their re-writing of recent
Irish history.

www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Pub Power

2009-11-23T08:00:00.000-08:00

The first edition of pub power was put on hold, finally i have been able to confirm that it will be on the blog in the coming days. We made our visit to the first pub for the first edition of pub power. The pub in question is,

Gerry Power (PUB)
Upper William St
Limerick.

Check back soon to read the first article of pub power.

Warning: Flood Alerts

2009-11-23T07:57:00.000-08:00

People in various parts of Limerick are being warned that bad flooding may be on its way. For the latest up to date news on flood alerts check out www.rte.ie .

The End Of Jedward Mania

2009-11-23T07:54:00.000-08:00

By Clodagh O'Leary
LAST night's dramatic X-Factor results show marked the end of the road of the competition for the colourful Jedward twins - whose father is from Limerick.
John and Edward Grimes fans all over the city were disappointed to see three out of the four judges vote to keep Olly Murs in the competition, and to kick out Jedward.

The 18-year-olds, John and Edward, performed a unique rendition of Boyzone's hit No Matter What, but it proved not to be enough to keep the boys, dressed in matching white suits and 'Choose Life' t-shirts, in the competition.

Their mentor Louis Walsh said last night that the twins have been inundated with offers of work.

And this Monday morning, bookie Paddy Power announced they are to refund all bets placed on the twins to win The X-Factor, to the tune of €25,000.

"We really weren't expecting Jedward to go out this week," Paddy Power admitted. "It's debatable whether this year's show will even be worth watching now that the twins are gone and we hope that by refunding money on the lads that it will somehow soften the blow to those who got behind them. We're disappointed to see them go but at the same time we're a little relieved!"

The bookies are already taking bets on the boys' future. There are odds of 12/1 that the duo will be given their own TV show, 2/1 that they top the charts before the end of 2010 and 8/1 that they amass a £10m fortune by 2015.

The boys' dad John hails from the northside of Limerick city and was seen on Saturday night's show welcoming the boys home, along with mum Susannah. The twins grandparents Emily and Jim still live in Limerick city.

The text of this post is copyright of the Limerick Leader. www.limerickleader.ie

Star Spots

2009-11-22T05:42:00.000-08:00

A Moyross family have been left homeless in the run up to Christmas, after their house was destroyed by a random arson attack. The Troy family home in Moyross was completely gutted. Tommy Daly, who ran in the 2009 local elections as an independent is speaking to the regeneration agency and Limerick city council in a bid to obtain Ms Troy a new home before Christmas. The Moyross monks are also on hand to offer support.

Flood Alert: People living in Clonlara, Castleconnell and Montpelier are being warned that major floods are expected in those areas.

Former Mayor Cllr: John Gilligan (IND) has called on the people of Limerick not to judge Mayor Kevin Kiely (FG) too harshly, he stated while giving an interview to the Limerick Leader this week.

Blog Under Going Work

2009-11-21T14:52:00.000-08:00

The blog will be under going work from 11.00 PM to 10.00 AM Irish time from 21-11-2009 to 22-11-2009

Star Spots

2009-11-21T10:06:00.000-08:00

Kevin Kiely (FG) and Willie O Dea (FF) have convinced Det Supt Jim Browne not to retire. Some believe the deal involved Paul Williams of the Sunday World and Browne was promised the job of Chief Supt as part of the deal.

The public Christmas tree in Limerick which is the tallest tree in Ireland fell into the river Shannon last night at around 6 o clock, while workers were trying to assemble it.

Des Long (RSF) Statement

2009-11-21T10:05:00.001-08:00

STERLING EURO RIP OFF CONTINUES

The current exchange rate between sterling and the euro
is not benefiting the local consumer in what can only be
described as a gigantic rip off, a member of the Ard
Comhairle of Republican Sinn Fein said today.

Des Long from Corbally in Limerick said one of the
biggest offenders is the Eason chain of stores where
English magazines are priced away over the official
exchange rate.

A magazine costing 3 fifty sterling costs five euro
and one cent in the Eason store, he said. When the
price difference was brought to the notice of the
cashier all she said was that the magazine was priced
in sterling.

Even at the official exchange rate, the cost of the item
should only have been three euro ninety one cents but
Eason added one euro and ten cents to the price they
charged.

This type of blatant rip off is repeated in many more
places like department stores, and computer shops.
It is time that the consumer associations took action
to prevent this type of over charging.

If the stores and shops cannot be trusted to police
themselves when it comes to marking up prices
for imported goods, then it is time that some
official action was taken to ensure clarity and
openness in the sector.

New President Of RSF

2009-11-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

This is a press release from the Limerick branch of Republican Sinn Fein (RSF) www.rsflimerick.com or www.rsf.ie

Des Dalton from Athy, Co. Kildare has been elected as the incoming President of Sinn Féin. He replaces veteren Republican Ruairí Ó Brádaigh, who has been affirmed as the Patron of the organisation.

He has been a member of Sinn Féin since 1989, and has served many years as a member of An Ard-Chomhairle (National Executive). Des has been a Vice-President of Sinn Féin since 2003.

The 2004 and 2009 elections for Athy Town Council were contested by Des Dalton on behalf of Republican Sinn Féin. He has also represented the organisation throughout Europe during the course of the past eight years.

Des Dalton is also the Vice-President of the Athy branch of Siptu and a member of Cumann Lúthchleas Gael (the Gaelic Athletic Association).

Linda Casey Recieves 10 Months For Drug Bagging

2009-11-19T07:54:00.000-08:00

A Limerick mother has been jailed for 10 months after gardaí raided a heroin bagging operation in Castletroy last year.
Linda Casey with an address in O'Malley Park, Southill was arrested during a search of a house in Brú Na Gruadáin on the 30th of July 2008.
She pleaded guilty to possession of almost 15 hundred euro worth of heroin for sale or supply.
Hear Live 95FM's Eric Clarke's report below

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Detective Garda David McGrath told Limerick District Court that Gardai forced entry to the house at Brú Na Gruadáin and broke down a locked downstairs bedroom door where they met Linda Casey.
Bags, scissors and traces of diamorphine or heroin were present in the house and she was arrested.
During her detention she produced 2 bags of the drug worth €1,453.
The court heard Linda Casey has 58 previous convictions including previous drugs convictions.
Her solicitor, John Devane said the 43 year old mother became a pawn forced to sell on drugs to keep a supply for her own chronic drug habit and she was now trying to clean up her act while in custody.
Judge Tom O'Donnell backdated a 10 month sentence to September 29th.
Linda Casey was also disqualified from driving for 4 years on separate road traffic offences.

The text of this post is copyright of Radio Limerick www.95fm.ie

Two Men Arrested After Car Theft

2009-11-19T07:46:00.000-08:00

Two men have been arrested in connection with the theft of car in the Thomondgate area of the city last night. The car was later found burnt out in Parteen. The two men are both in their twenties and are from Moyross and Thomondgate. They were arrested at midnight last night, both men are being held for questioning at Henry street garda station.

Limerick Christmas Lights

2009-11-19T05:12:00.000-08:00

The Limerick Christmas lights will be turned on this Saturday 21-11-2009 at 6.00 PM. The lights will be turned on this year by the mayor Kevin Kiely and professional boxer Andy Lee. The presence of Andy Lee is expected to draw huge crowds to the city centre at the weekend. Mayor Kevin Kiely explained that the Christmas lights are very Eco friendly, and the Christmas tree is going to be taller than last year, making it the tallest Christmas tree in Ireland.

The tree is made of recycled metal from recent building projects in Limerick, including Thomond Park and the Shannon Tunnel. Throughout the weekend there is a number of markets being held throughout Limerick, there will be as much as 50% discounts from certain shops. The event will be broadcast live by Live 95 FM radio and there is lots of prizes to be won. Limerick city council are offering free on street parking during the weekend. For a list of markets and shops offering discounts, and for general information on the winter fest weekend visit the following website www.limerickcoordination.ie

Limerick Solicitor And Councillor For Dail

2009-11-19T03:54:00.000-08:00

William O Donnell better known as Bill who is a solicitor in Limerick and also a member of Limerick county council has confirmed today that he intends to run for a seat in the Dail, when the next general election is called. Mr O Donnell (42) runs his own practice based in Mallow street in the city, he is a nephew of former minister and honorary MEP Tom O Donnell.