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Cork County Council is delighted to announce the return of Healthcare Hoolies 2026, a programme that promotes the wellbeing of older people through access to live music. Now entering its sixth year, the initiative will once again bring professional musicians, such as Down Memory Lane, Cork Pops Quartet and Fiona Kennedy into Community Hospitals and residential care settings across County Cork, while also expanding its reach into local libraries for the first time.
Since its inception in 2021, Healthcare Hoolies has delivered hundreds of live performances to older people in healthcare settings throughout the county, creating opportunities for connection, reminiscence and social engagement through music. The programme has become a much-loved feature of the summer calendar for residents, families, staff and performers alike.
This year to mark the 100-year anniversary of Cork County Library, Healthcare Hoolies 2026 will extend beyond healthcare settings and into communities, with a series of special concerts taking place in Bandon Library, Bantry Library, Cobh Library, Kinsale Library, Mallow Library, Mitchelstown Library, Skibbereen Library, Youghal Library.
The library concerts will be hosted throughout the summer, providing additional opportunities for older people and local communities to enjoy high-quality live musical performances in welcoming and accessible spaces.
Healthcare Hoolies is delivered by Cork County Council as part of its commitment to promote positive ageing and wellbeing through arts and culture. Research and experience have consistently demonstrated the positive impact that music can have on wellbeing, particularly for older adults, fostering social connection, stimulating memory and enhancing quality of life.
Supported through Creative Ireland’s Creative Health and Wellbeing programme and developed in partnership with healthcare and community stakeholders, Healthcare Hoolies reflects Cork County Council's ongoing commitment to inclusive cultural participation for all ages.
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To celebrate 100 years of Cork County Library and Arts service, we invite you to share a memroy of visiting your public library. Submisions are for adults only amd should be contained to 300 words. The deadline is August 29th.

Cork County Council is pleased to announce the return of the Youghal Medieval Festival on Sunday, 2nd August, with thousands of visitors expected to attend one of East Cork's most popular heritage events.
Organised by Living Youghal and supported by Cork County Council and the Heritage Council through the Irish Walled Towns Network, the festival will transform Youghal's historic Raleigh Quarter into a vibrant celebration of the town's rich medieval heritage, offering a full day of free family entertainment, interactive experiences and cultural activities.
Now in its nineteenth year, the festival has become a flagship event in Cork County’s programme of heritage and tourism initiatives, showcasing Youghal's unique history while supporting local businesses and enhancing the town's appeal as a visitor destination.
Set within the historic surroundings of St. Mary's College Gardens, visitors can enjoy medieval encampments and battle displays by the White Horse Living History Society, falconry demonstrations, traditional craft displays, archaeological workshops and the popular 'Big Dig' experience from the School of Irish Archaeology. A wide range of family activities, including face painting, balloon art, a petting farm and artisan food and craft stalls, will take place throughout the day.
A significant new addition for 2026 is the Sensory Orchard, located within the apple orchard at St. Mary's College Gardens. Designed as a calm and welcoming space, it provides children and families with an opportunity to step away from the busy festival atmosphere, reflecting Cork County Council's commitment to creating inclusive events that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Visitors can also explore nearby St. Mary's Collegiate Church and experience the award-winning Voices of St. Mary's audio tour and family treasure trail, offering another engaging way to discover the story of one of Ireland's most important medieval buildings.
The festival continues to deliver significant benefits for the local economy. Independent analysis found that the 2023 event generated almost €864,000 in economic activity for local businesses, demonstrating the important role heritage tourism plays in supporting jobs, investment and visitor spending in East Cork.

Cork County Council and HSE South West have officially launched the much anticipated return of ‘Together at Fair Green’, a free community mental health and wellbeing event in Midleton.
Following the tremendous success of last year's event, which attracted nearly 2,000 people, organisers are looking forward to welcoming the community back to Fair Green, Midleton on Sunday, August 23rd, 2026, from 12pm to 4pm. The event continues to grow as a key community initiative promoting positive mental health, wellbeing, connection and inclusion.
The day will feature live entertainment and family-friendly activities, and more than 30 local organisations providing information, advice and supports relating to mental health and wellbeing. The aim is to create an open and welcoming environment where people can connect with one another, learn about available supports, and celebrate the strength of the local community.
The event is a collaboration between Cork County Council, HSE South West, Connecting for Life, Midleton & Area Chamber of Commerce, Midleton Family Resource Centre and SECAD.
Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer, HSE South West, said, "It’s truly inspiring to see Cork’s statutory, voluntary and community partners come together to make ‘Together at the Fair Green’ such a welcoming space. By blending fun, creativity and open conversation, we’re breaking down stigma and ensuring everyone in East Cork knows where to turn for mental health support. This event is a testament to what we can achieve when we put community well-being first."
Martin Ryan, Resource Officer for Suicide Prevention, HSE South West welcomed the collaboration between Cork County Council, Midleton and Area Chamber of Commerce, and a broad range of community partners in delivering this year’s event. He said, “Suicide prevention is everyone’s business, which is the core principle of Connecting for Life. By working together, we can create communities where people feel connected, supported, and hopeful. This event reflects the shared commitment of local organisations, businesses, community groups, and services to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, while raising awareness of the supports available across our community.”
Adrianna Hegarty, President of Midleton and Area Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the wider impact of the day, "’Together at Fair Green’ shines a light on the importance of looking after our mental health, both individually and as a community. It’s an opportunity for people to come together, hear each other’s stories, and explore the wide range of support and resources available. It’s a day for connection, compassion and celebration."
CORK COUNTY COUNCIL
REQUIRES
West Cork Leisure Centre – Dunmanway
Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is 2pm on Thursday, 13th August 2026.
Further details and application forms for the above posts are available on the careers’ section of the website: www.corkcoco.ie; or by e-mailing: recruitment@corkcoco.ie