The Lord Mayor of Cork urges Primary Schools in the City to enter Cork School Garden Competition for 2026

 

The Lord Mayor of Cork urges Primary Schools in the City to enter Cork School Garden Competition for 2026

 

LtR.  Una Leader, Scientist for Environmental Awareness, Green Schools and Circular Economy Cork City Council. The Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy and Cathy Davis and Bethany Elvins  of St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld

Atkins Garden World was the venue as the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Feargal Dennehy launched the annual School Garden competition for Primary Schools in Cork City.

Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Fergal Dennehy emphasized the significance of school and community gardens in promoting Cork City Council’s biodiversity initiatives. He remarked, “These initiatives play a crucial role in our aim to achieve net-zero carbon emissions within the next decade. Cork City Council takes pride in collaborating with Muintir na Tire, Cork County Council, and Atkins Garden World on this creative project, and I encourage all primary schools in the city to get involved. Participating in this competition allows young people to develop a passion for horticulture and explore various facets of biodiversity, providing an invaluable learning experience that can spark a lifelong journey in gardening.”

Cork City Council was also represented by Una Leader, Scientist for Environmental Awareness, Green Schools and Circular Economy

 Cork County Federation of Muintir na Tire was represented by Sean Holland, Pauline O'Dwyer, Sean Finn, Finbar Motherway, Helen Kennedy and Denis Kelly, while Atkins Garden World was represented by Manager Cornelia Creedon.

St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown, winners of the Best School Garden in Cork City in 2025, were represented by Cathy Davis and pupil Bethany Elvins 

Cathy Davis and Bethany Elvins  of St. Mary’s Special School Rochestown at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld

For full competition details and Entry form go to https://www.muintircork.com/cork-school-gardens

Cork School Garden Competition Launched by Mayor of County Of Cork

The Mayor Of the County of Cork urges

Primary Schools to enter Cork School

Garden Competition for 2026

Atkins Garden World was the venue as the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary

Linehan Foley launched of the annual School Garden competition for Primary Schools

in County Cork.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said "Activities that

can help children to learn the importance of nature while staying active are crucial for

health and wellbeing". Since its establishment in 2012, the Muintir na Tire School

Garden Competition has inspired thousands of students across Cork County to

embrace the outdoors and Cork County Council is very proud to have supported the

competition each year. I urge all schools around the county to consider signing up this

year, whether a new entrant or a long-established participant. We want to see students

from every town and village involved in Cork.

County Council was represented by Ger Barry, Director of Services Planning and

Environment, Cork County Council, Aida Goold, Senior Executive Officer Cork

County Council, Michelle Greene and Katherine Corkery from the Environment

Directorate and Conor Nelligan Heritage Officer Cork County Council. The Cork

County Federation of Muintir na Tire was represented by Sean Holland, Pauline O

Dwyer, Sean Finn, Finbar Motherway, Helen Kennedy and Denis Kelly, while

Atkins Garden World was represented by Manager Cornelia Creedon.

Coachford National School, winners of the Best School Garden in Cork County in

2025, were represented by pupils Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska.

Photos DSC_5296.JPG and DSC _5293.JPG

The Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley with pupils of Coachford

National School Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska at the launch of the Cork School

Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld.

Photo DSC_5291.JPG

Pupils of Coachford National School Seán Murray and Mia Malinovska at the launch

of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins GardenWorld.

Photo DSC_5320.JPG

L-R Ger Barry, Director of Services Planning and Environment, Cork County

Council, Aida Goold, Senior Executive Officer Cork County Council, Sean Murray

Coachford National School, the Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan

Foley, Mia Malinovska Coachford National School, Katherine Corkery Planning &

Environment Directorate Cork County Council, Conor Nelligan Heritage Officer

Cork County Council at the launch of the Cork School Garden Competition in Atkins

GardenWorld.

For full competition details and Entry form go to https://www.muintircork.com/cork-school-gardens

Pride in our Community 2026 – Muintir na Tíre

 

It's that time of year again to be thinking about planning your community project for 2026.If you are thinking about entering the Pride in our Community Competition in 2026 You can fill in the form using the link below before Jun 30th 2026.

Pride in Our Community 2026 Entry Form – Fill in form it just takes a minute or two.

Please feel free to share this email with other groups in your area or beyond. (open to community groups in Cork County or City only) To find out more about this Competition go to https://www.muintircork.com/pride-in-our-community.

Cork County Council Announces the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026

 

Cork County Council has announced that applications are now open for the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026. Launched in 2021, the scheme highlights County Cork’s rich heritage and acknowledges the many community and voluntary organisations that work tirelessly to protect, celebrate, and share this heritage with both residents and visitors.

Funded by Cork County Council and the Heritage Council, the scheme aims to empower heritage groups across the county as they carry out initiatives that advance the goals of the County Cork Heritage Plan. In 2025, more than 30 organisations received funding under the scheme, enabling a wide range of projects including Heritage Week projects, video documentaries, conservation plans, exhibitions, archives, natural heritage projects, and heritage publications.

This year, a broad selection of heritage-related proposals can be submitted for consideration, including conservation projects that contribute positively to the county’s built heritage.

The Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the return of the scheme saying, ‘Since its launch in 2021, the Heritage Grant Scheme has supported more than 125 projects, with over €175,000 of funding allocated. This level of investment reflects the strong commitment to preserving Cork’s heritage and the outstanding dedication shown by local volunteers and heritage organisations. By backing community‑led projects, we are helping to safeguard the county’s history and traditions so they can be appreciated and passed on to future generations.’

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Moira Murrell added, The County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme reflects the Council’s dedication to preserving local heritage and sense of place. These projects play an important role in helping communities to celebrate their heritage while strengthening local identity and pride. Cork County Council appreciates the ongoing support from the Heritage Council and we look forward to seeing the diverse range of project proposals put forward this year.’

For further details of the County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026, including application forms, please click the link below.

The closing date for proposals and application forms is 17:00 on Thursday 16th April 2026, which can be made online, emailed to corkheritage@corkcoco.ie, or sent by post to ‘County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026’, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork. For further information email corkheritage@corkcoco.ie or phone 021 4276891. 

 

County Cork Heritage Grant Scheme 2026

Click here for more information

Upcoming parenting course Fermoy

 Dates have been rescheduled for the Understanding your baby, 6 week parenting course in Fermoy. The course is based on the Solihull approach and is suitable for parents and infants 0-6 months. Parents can book directly by contacting me. I have attached a jpg also for anyone who would be willing to share on a social media platform if you have access for work. Spaces are available. I would really appreciate your support in promoting this initiative. If there are any parents you think may benefit but would be nervous to attend, I am happy to meet them beforehand.

 

 

Any questions you know where I am.

 

 

Kind Regards,

Orla Geary

Public Health Nurse

 

Please note I do not work on Thursdays

 

Orla Geary BSc Nursing (General), PGdip Public Health Nursing, RGN, RM, PHN, Msc Perinatal Mental Health

Public Health Nurse | North Cork | Health Service Executive | Fermoy Primary Care Centre | Mill Island | Fermoy | Cork | Mob. 087-9394479 orla.geary@hse.ie

 

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL REQUIRES District Supervisor - Kanturk/Mallow MD

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL

REQUIRES

• District Supervisor - Kanturk/Mallow MD 

           

 Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is 4pm on Thursday, 9th April 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

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Mallow Library Launches Mallow Reads 2026, a Year‑Long Celebration of Books, Community, and the Joy of Reading

 

Mallow Library is delighted to announce the launch of “Mallow Reads 2026”, a year‑long reading campaign designed to inspire people of all ages to rediscover the joy, comfort, and creativity that books bring.

The campaign starts with a special emphasis on encouraging parents to share the library experience with their children. It aims to foster lifelong reading by encouraging parents to explore the library alongside their children, creating shared memories that bridge the gap between generations.

A symbolic “One Million Minutes” reading challenge will run throughout the year as a motivational marker of the town’s collective engagement, while the central focus remains on nurturing a culture of reading for pleasure.

Mallow’s year‑long community reading initiative unfolds like a shared storybook, with each season forming a chapter in the town’s collective reading journey. Spring opens with a preschool family launch and a town‑wide Reading Pledge, while Summer celebrates cultural diversity through a Multicultural Fun Day and multilingual storytelling. Autumn highlights intergenerational connection, engaging the Active Retirement community, integrating dementia‑awareness activities, and showcasing local creativity during Culture Night. Winter closes the final chapter with an author visit and a community‑curated Town Anthology, reflecting a year of shared stories, inclusion, and creativity across Mallow.

Mallow Library invites all residents to join in this town‑wide celebration of reading throughout 2026. Event details and updates will be available in Mallow library and on social media.
 

Pride in our Community 2026 – Muintir na Tíre

 

It's that time of year again to be thinking about planning your community project for 2026.If you are thinking about entering the Pride in our Community Competition in 2026 You can fill in the form using the link below before Jun 30th 2026.

Pride in Our Community 2026 Entry Form – Fill in form it just takes a minute or two.

Please feel free to share this email with other groups in your area or beyond. (open to community groups in Cork County or City only) To find out more about this Competition go to https://www.muintircork.com/pride-in-our-community.

Free Dementia Awareness Workshops Mallow - April 1 2026

 You and your organisation are cordially invited to the Friends of ASI Mallow Dementia Awareness Workshops which take place on Wednesday, 1st April 2026.

To date, the group has successfully hosted several dementia awareness workshops, reaching over 100 individuals from a variety of community and business organisations.
Whether you’re an individual, business owner, sports club member, community leader / group member, or community development organisation these workshops offer practical insights on how to better support those living with dementia in Mallow and North Cork.

Workshop Topics:

• Understanding Dementia
• Communicating Effectively
• Creating a Dementia Inclusive Community

Participants proudly display the ‘Friends of ASI Dementia Inclusive Community’ sticker — a visible sign of support, understanding, and inclusion for people living with dementia. Be sure to look out for these stickers around town and know that these businesses and groups are making a real difference.
We would greatly appreciate your support in creating dementia inclusive communities throughout North Cork.  I have attached a flyer that gives more details on the workshop and a poster that can be used for sharing on social media. 
Reserve your place today and be part of creating a more inclusive Mallow. Contact Laura Curtin, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Community Engagement Officer on 087 3736496 or email laura.curtin@alzheimer.ie .

Best regards,

Noelle Nally | PPN Support & Development Worker | Cork County PPN
Community, Tourism & Rural Development
Cork County Council | Cork | T12 R2NC Ireland
T (021) 4285265 | M +353 860597563
Noelle.Nally@corkcoco.ie
Cork County PPN | Public Participation Network

COUNTY COUNCIL REQUIRES Graduate Engineer

 

COUNTY COUNCIL

REQUIRES

• Graduate Engineer

           

 Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is 4pm on Wednesday, 1st April 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

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Rainbow Ready Training Fermoy

 

Please find attached information regarding upcoming training being hosted by the Fermoy Community Network.  A maximum of 30 people can attend, so if you or another member of your group/organisation would like to participate, please register as soon as possible.

To register, call or email Jacinta McCormack at 085 874 2320 or jacinta.mccormack@hse.ie

All the best

Jacinta McCormack 

Oibrí Sláinte Pobail Fhear Maí 

Fermoy Community Health Worker

 

Tionscadal Sláinte Pobail Fhear Maí | Ionad Acmhainní Pobail Fhear Maí | 42 Sráid McCurtain | Fhear Maí | Co. Chorcaí | P61 T267

Fermoy Community Health Project | Fermoy Community Resource Centre | 42 McCurtain Street | Fermoy | Co Cork | P61 T267

 

085 8742320 | jacinta.mccormack@hse.ie | www.southwest.hse.ie | www.healthactionzone.ie

 

Cork County Council Announces Completion of Upgrade Works in Ballydehob Tennis Courts, Multi-Use Games Area and Playground

 

Ballydehob is set to benefit from substantial investment in its recreational spaces, as Cork County Council, supported by national funding programmes, delivers major enhancements to the village tennis courts and local playground.

Upgrade works at Ballydehob Tennis Courts and Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) were completed with support from the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht under the CLÁR Programme, alongside a valuable contribution from Ballydehob Community Council, whose ongoing support helped bring the project to fruition. The works included drainage and groundwork, a new porous asphalt playing surface, line marking, new basketball hoops, and replacement perimeter fencing and gates, bringing the facilities up to modern standards.

In addition, Cork County Council secured funding through the Town and Village Renewal Scheme to enhance the Ballydehob Playground. Located adjacent to the village centre, the playground is an important community amenity.

🍀 Celebrate Cork: St. Patrick’s Festival City Events 2026

🍀 Celebrate Cork: St. Patrick’s Festival City Events 2026

Cork is gearing up for an unforgettable St. Patrick’s Festival from Friday 13th to Tuesday 17th March 2026! The city will come alive with culture, music, heritage and fun for all ages, as we honour Ireland’s patron saint with a vibrant programme of City Events across Cork’s historic streets, parks and venues.

🎉 What’s On Across the City

Whether you’re a local or visiting Cork for the festivities, there’s plenty to discover during the five-day celebration.

🎠 City Funfair — Family Fun at Custom House Quay

From Saturday 14th to Tuesday 17th March, the funfair returns to Custom House Quay with waltzers, bumper cars, old-time carousels and more — bringing colourful carnival atmosphere right beside the river. Perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike!

💚 Cork City in Green

Throughout the festival, dozens of buildings and landmarks across Cork will glow in green as part of the City in Green tradition — creating an immersive festive backdrop as you explore local events and activities around the centre.

🎵 Music, Dance and Culture

The festival programme features a wonderful range of cultural highlights, from traditional music sessions and live performances to guided tours and street entertainment spanning March 13–17. Events span from casual pop-up experiences to more structured showcases celebrating Irish heritage and creative expression.

💃 Céilí Mór — Dance at Cork City Hall

On Sunday 15th March, join in the lively Céilí Mór at City Hall with live traditional music and guided ceili dancing. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a curious first-timer, everyone is welcome to take part in the joyous festival spirit.

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🎺 The Highlight — The St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The centrepiece of Cork’s celebrations is the iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade, kicking off at 1:00 pm on Tuesday 17th March. With the 2026 theme “Marsh, Myth & Magic”, the parade promises dazzling colours, creative floats, musicians, dancers, community groups and more marching from South Mall through the city centre. The Irish Guide Dogs have been announced as this year’s Grand Marshal, leading the festivities with heart, pride and plenty of wagging tails.

This flagship event brings together thousands of participants and spectators for one of Cork’s most beloved cultural traditions — capturing the spirit of community, creativity and Irish heritage in stunning style.

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🗺️ Explore More Festival Magic

Alongside the City Events listed above, Cork’s St. Patrick’s Festival also includes music gigs, guided walking tours, workshops, family-friendly activities and more — with something to delight every kind of festival-goer. Check the full programme on the official Cork City Council festival pages as more events are confirmed.

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Whether you’re planning to stroll through the parade, enjoy the funfair with the family, or dance the afternoon away at a céilí, Cork’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Festival promises an unforgettable celebration of culture, community and creativity. 🍀

Mallow Cultural Companions are joining the parade

 St Patricks Day Parade - Mallow Cultural Companions Represent!

☘️ This year's parade will be taking place on St. Patrick’s Day, Tuesday 17th March, at 2:30pm on Main Street, Mallow, with the assembly of participants at 2:00pm on Park Road.

☘️ This year's theme is: Fit for St. Patrick’s Day! With many community groups set to take part, it promises to be a great day out for all the family. Bígí linn!

Mallow members are joining the parade this year to fly the Cultural Companions flag! It will be a wonderful way to celebrate friendship, creativity, and culture and showing that being part of a shared experience makes every event special. We can’t wait to see everyone join in and make the parade brighter! Please let us know if you can make it.

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL REQUIRES 26/025 Programme Manager

 CORK COUNTY COUNCIL

REQUIRES

• 26/025 Programme Manager

           

 Closing date for the receipt of completed application forms is 4pm on Tuesday, 31st March 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

 

CORK COUNTY COUNCIL IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Spring at Mallow Library!

 Hello everyone,

 

Spring has arrived here at Mallow Library, and we have lots of lovely events happening this month.  Hopefully, you will get a chance to join us for an event over the coming weeks!

 

Tea, Time & Company – Thursday 19^th March at 11am

Book chats & recommendations over a cuppa!  Everyone welcome.  No booking Required.

 

“Feel Your Best Naturally” – Friday 20^th March at 2pm

Join Garima for this information session on easy nutrition & healthy lifestyle tips.  Learn how to improve your digestion, sleep, energy & overall wellbeing.  Everyone Welcome.  No Booking Required.

 

Fair Deal Scheme Talk – Wednesday 25^th March at 6:30pm

Tom Murray, Managing Director of Fair Deal Advice will present this informative talk on the Fair Deal & Nursing Home Support Scheme – who can apply & how to apply.  Everyone Welcome.  No Booking Required.

 

Friday Bingo – Friday 27^th March at 2pm

Join us for an hour of fun & bingo!  Lots of laughs guaranteed!  No Booking Required.

 

Repair Café – Saturday 28^th March 11am – 1:30pm

Have you got broken household items lying around that need a little TLC?  Would you like some advice on how to fix something instead of throwing it away?  Come along to our Repair Café!  Get your queries answered & your items repaired!  Household items, small furniture electrical items & clothing – all welcome.  No Booking Required.  Everyone Welcome.

 

When the Body Says No – The Hidden Cost of Stress – Saturday 28^th March at 2pm

Join Community Pharmacist, Dr. Sabine Eggers, & learn about the Mind-Body connection.  Learn how your mental health affects your physical condition & how to improve both.  Everyone Welcome.  No Booking Required.

 

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland – “Dementia Awareness” Workshops – Wednesday 1^st April, 10am, 12:30pm & 3pm.

Dementia is not just a health issue, but a social issue that requires a community response.  Book your place on one of these workshops a learn more.  Contact Laura Curtin – laura.curtin@alzheimer.ie or Mallow Library to book a place.

 

Give a Doll a Second Life & a Child a Gift for Easter!

Donate your pre-loved dolls at Mallow Library donation box.  Dolls will be upcycled by Kinga Ekert & donated to local children as an Easter gift.  Be part of this Donate, Restore & Gift programme!

 

Remember all our regular groups and activities are ongoing – book clubs, children’s story time, LEGO clubs and much more.

We look forward to seeing you soon.

 

Warm regards,

Lynda

 

Lynda McDonnell  | Leabharlannaí | Seirbhís Leabharlainne & Ealaíona Comhairle Chontae Chorcaí

Leabharlann Mhagh Ealla | Sráid an Dáibhisigh | Magh Ealla | Corcaigh | P51 DK50 | Éire.

T +353-(0)22 – 21821 | E. 6861

lynda.mcdonnell@corkcoco.ie |  www.corkcoco.ie/library-services  

Tairseach na gcustaiméirí: www.yourcouncil.ie

 

Lynda McDonnell |  Librarian  | Cork County Council Library & Arts Service

Mallow Library | Thomas Davis Street | Mallow | Cork | P51 DK50 | Ireland.

T +353-(0)22 - 21821 | E. 6861

lynda.mcdonnell@corkcoco.ie |  www.corkcoco.ie/library-services  

Customer Portal: www.yourcouncil.ie

 

     

Smaoinigh ar an timpeallacht sula ndéanann tú an ríomhphost seo a phriontáil. 

Please consider the Environment before printing this mail.

 

 

Mallow Art Course

 

Upcoming Dementia Events

 

Upcoming Workshops and Recognition Event for your Workplace

Upcoming Workshops

1. Introduction to Psyched Mental Health Awareness Training for Staff

• Date: Tuesday, 24th March 2026
• Time: 9:30 AM – 1:15 PM
• Venue: Talbot Hotel, Ballincollig
• Spaces Available
• Register here: Register Now

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2. All Things Sleep Exploring the Neuroscience of Sleep

• Date: Thursday, 23rd April 2026
• Time: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM (Registration from 10:15 AM)
• Venue: Talbot Hotel, Ballincollig
• 3 Spaces Available
• Register here: Register Now

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3. Building Resilience at Work Creating Supportive Work Environments

• Date: 29th April 2026
• Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Venue: Silver Springs Moran Hotel Events Centre, Tivoli, Cork
• Registration: Currently full. Join the waiting list for potential openings, and we may schedule a repeat session.
• Join the waiting list: Join Here

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Special Event: Psyched Celebration & Recognition Event

• Date: Tuesday, 26th May 2026
• Venue: Vertigo, Cork County Hall

The Psyched Recognition Awards celebrate workplaces in Cork and Kerry that promote positive mental health. If your organisation has engaged in meaningful activities, no matter how big or small, we encourage you to apply for recognition!

To apply:

1. Complete the online application form: Application Form
2. Share workplace activities from 1 January – 31 December 2025.
3. Join us for the certificate presentation by the Lord Mayor and County Mayor on Tuesday, 26th May 2026 (5:45 PM – 8:00 PM).

Deadline to apply: Friday, 15th May 2026, at 5:00 PM.

We would greatly appreciate your help in circulating these opportunities within your organisation to encourage participation. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to promoting positive mental health in the workplace! Further information available on our website https://psychedworkplace.ie/.

 

Best regards,

Aoife

Aoife Ní Chonchúir

Healthy Cities & Counties

Health Promotion & Improvement

Eye, Ear, Throat Hospital

Western Rd

Cork

Tel: 021 4921641

Mobile: 087 2288271

Email: aoife.nichonchuir@hse.ie

https://psychedworkplace.ie/

https://corkhealthycities.com/

 

 

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