CorkIndependent.com Local News Feed http://www.corkindependent.com Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:11:59 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.corkindependent.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.corkindependent.com CorkIndependent.com Local News Feed http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7555&Itemid=82 Patients who did not turn up for outpatient appointments cost Cork University Hospital (CUH) approximately €2 million last year. Figures released reveal that 5,125 new patients, and 18,800 return patients did not show up for their appointments throughout 2009. The number of non-attendances amounted to 13.6 per cent of new patients and 14.8 per cent of return patients appointments during the time period. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7556&Itemid=82 After much delay and confusion, the first sailing of the new Swansea-Cork ferry service took place last night will arrive in Cork this morning. The inaugural sailing of the re-opened ferry service left Swansea at 9.50pm last night and was due in Cork at 8am today (Thursday). It comes nine days after the MV Julia was to make her maiden voyage but technical difficulties resulted in hundreds of potential customers not travelling and not knowing when the ferry would sail. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7557&Itemid=82 Bandon man Oliver Hayes was yesterday (Wednesday) sentenced to life in prison for the murder of widow Ann Corcoran. The 49-year from Clancool Terrace in Bandon beat 60-year-old Ms Corcoran with a stick and counter top after abducting her from her home in Kilbrittain in July of 2009. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7558&Itemid=82 Tickets are now on sale at the Firkin Crane and Pro Musica for an opportunity to see some of Cork's most talented singers and dancers in action, all in aid of charities working in Haiti. 'Hope for Haiti', an evening of song and dance at the Firkin Crane, in association with the Cork Independent, will showcase the talents of Alan Foley's ballet students, Sinéad Murphy's dance students and the vocal talents of the Polyphonics Barbershop Choir and St John's Gospel Choir. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7559&Itemid=82 Gardai investigating an international murder plot have said all those arrested in Ireland as part of the probe are legal residents here. There was also believed to be no prior connection between the couple arrested in Ballincollig and five detained in Waterford. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7560&Itemid=82 Many young people in Cork are preparing themselves for new lives in Canada, with emigration the only option left for many in search of work. Recent figures showed a fall in the number of people on the Live Register for February, but Opposition TDs claim that this is due to emigration and not an improvement in the economy. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7561&Itemid=82 The decision on a proposed retail development with the potential to create 1,500 jobs will be made next Monday. Planning has been sought by John Cleary Developments for the construction of a 32,000 square metre development near Mahon Point shopping centre. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7562&Itemid=82 A new levy to be imposed on local radio stations will "certainly" cause job losses in Cork if it goes ahead, according to local radio chief Fiona Darcy. "Job losses are certainly ahead if this local radio levy is imposed," she said. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7563&Itemid=82 CLLR Kenneth O'Flynn has warned Cork shoppers and business to be vigilant following recent reports of an influx of fake fifty-euro notes. "This issue has been highlighted to me by a number of constituents. It is easy to tell these forged fifties that are currently in circulation. The quality of them is below a real note and they have a waxy feel, poor watermark and hologram," said Cllr O'Flynn. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7564&Itemid=82 Fianna Fail members of Cork City council say staff are being compromised by the directive from their unions to not deal with members of the government parties. Members of the IMPACT and SIPTU trade unions have advised staff not to assist politicians "who have not supported the interest of public sector workers". Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7565&Itemid=82 It has been confirmed that St Mary's Road library will close at the end of the month. City Manager Joe Gavin revealed to Sinn Féin Cllr Thomas Gould at last Monday's City Council meeting that the library will be closed by the end of March. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7566&Itemid=82 A recent audit into foster care facilities in the South of Ireland suggests that Irish people have learned little from recent experiences with taking risks with the safety and security of children. That's according to Cork Labour Party TD Kathleen Lynch, who said news that foster carers have not been screened was "deeply disturbing". Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7567&Itemid=82 The Girls from Christ King Secondary School on South Douglas Road will dance all day long for charity on Tuesday 16 March, in a céilí organised by Michelle McGinley, a PE teacher in the school. Principal Mary Keane, was delighted to facilitate this novel and innovative idea where up to 150 students will be dancing in the school's hall any given time during the day accompanied by live musicians. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7568&Itemid=82 Concern Worldwide is very grateful for the extraordinary generosity shown by the people of Cork in response to the Haiti appeal. Recently Concern has sent out a letter to those who have donated €250 or more over the course of a year. If you are a PAYE tax payer and have given annual donations of €250 or more to Concern in any of the last four years since 2006, Concern can claim back money from Revenue on your donations. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7569&Itemid=82 A New planning application has been submitted for the proposed €80m clinic to be located in Lancaster Quay. The application was submitted by O'Callaghan Properties this week to Cork City Council for the site, next to Jury's Hotel on the Western Road. In December of last year, planning permission at the same site was refused by An Bord Pleanála following an appeal to the granting of permission by Cork City Council. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7570&Itemid=82 There were positive signs for the new car market in February with signs of a recovery for the wider motor industry. Statistics released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that there were 11,707 new private cars licensed in February 2010, compared with 8,793 in February of last year representing an increase of 33.1 per cent. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7571&Itemid=82 There has been strong criticism of the proposal to hold a motor rally at the site of the former city dump on the Kinsale Road. Cork Motor Club are seeking to hold the motor rally in aid of Marymount Hospice at the end of May at the Kinsale Road landfill site, which has been turned into an amenity park since its closure last year. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7572&Itemid=82 Businesspeople renting in places like the Wilton Shopping Centre believe some landlords are increasing commercial rent rates to make their properties appear more valuable before they enter the NAMA process. Cork South Central TD and spokesperson Ciaran Lynch, claimed the Government's plan to take over bad loans from banks is forcing shops and other businesses to pay higher rents instead of helping them by making credit more available. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7573&Itemid=82 John and Liz McCarthy of Mad Pride Ireland have been invited by President Mary McAleese to attend her annual St. Patricks Day celebration at Aras An Uachtarain. The invite is in recognition for Cork Independent columnist McCarthy's work as a mental health campaigner, and in particular his fight against stigma in mental health. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7574&Itemid=82 The possibility of withdrawing orthopaedic services from St Mary's Hospital has been criticised by local councillors. A senior medical consultant is currently completing a feasibility study to examine how the orthopaedic services at the hospital can be transferred to CUH. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7575&Itemid=82 Over 900 new jobs will be created through the establishment of over 70 start-up companies in 2009. This is according to Minister for Trade and Commerce, Billy Kelleher TD who announced that the Government through Enterprise Ireland has supported the establishment of 73 new high potential start-up companies (HPSUs) in 2009. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7576&Itemid=82 The latest figures released by the Central Applications Office (CAO) show that students are moving away from construction related programmes in favour of more general degrees in the arts, business and science. The record number of applicants hoping to secure a place in a third level institution is up six per cent on last year and the majority of the increase can be seen in the social science, arts and other healthcare programmes. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7577&Itemid=82 Hse South should move to reassure the people of Cork City and County that their X-rays have been reviewed by a consultant radiologist, in the wake of the controversy in Tallaght Hospital according to Deputy Michael McGrath. Deputy McGrath believes that the controversy concerning Tallaght hospital will inevitably cause a great deal of concern amongst the general public in Cork and he has asked the HSE to calm any fears that may arise. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7578&Itemid=82 Fianna Fail Cllr Kenneth O'Flynn has called on Minister for Agriculture to scrap the current dog licensing system. Cllr O'Flynn wants to replace it with a more modern, effective and technology driven incentive, he said he would be in favour of the current system being replaced with the compulsory chipping of dogs instead, this would then act as a one-off licence. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7579&Itemid=82 On St Patrick's Day, Irish people all over the world celebrate in style. Emma Donavan will have a day much like any other. She is living in Kenya now and working as a Fundraising Adviser with the Kenyan Association for the Blind. In Nairobi her day will be much the same as usual. Emma is a 37 year old from Rochestown in Cork. As a VSO volunteer she will be in Kenya for two years in total and is 11 months into her placement. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7580&Itemid=82 A New report has quantified the value to Cork provided by McDonald's restaurants in the City and County. With eight premises in Cork, the company employs 347 people and generates over €5m in household incomes. The research, prepares by Indecon International Economic Consultants, also shows that the overall impact of McDonald's operations in Cork, comprising wages, salaries and non-labour costs amounts to €9m annually. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7581&Itemid=82 Kevin Glavin was the popular winner of the final of Cork's Got Talent last Saturday night. He plans to release his single 'Pour it Out' next week and donate the proceeds to charity. Kevin revealed his initial reticence to be in the competition to the Cork Independent: "I was very reluctant to enter Cork's Got Talent at the start as it didn't really appeal to me but I ended up winning it! Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7582&Itemid=82 Cork Heritage sites which are crucial to the local tourism industry are to receive Government funding of over €500,000. According to Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin, "the funding will be used to protect local heritage buildings and sites throughout the city and county. These structures are a concrete link to our history, give us all a sense of pride in Cork and attract tourists into our communities." Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7583&Itemid=82 On Sunday 28 March, Ted Philpott will be swimming 4000 metres at LeisureWorld Bishopstown Pool to raise €4000 to take part in one of two 'build-it-weeks' that have been planned for April and October this year. Ted travelled to Haiti last October as a Haven Volunteer where he took part in Haven's Build-It-Week 2009. A total of 41 houses were built in one week, making a total of 200 built by Haven in 2009. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7584&Itemid=82 The Cork branch of the Irish Wildlife Trust will be holding an event on Saturday 20 March to introduce people to their seashores. The outing is free and anyone is welcome to attend. Anyone wishing to attend is asked to phone or text in advance. The group will meet at 11am in the main car park at Roches Point. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7585&Itemid=82 The Turner's Cross Heat of the over 60s competition takes place tonight, Thursday 11 March in Christ the King Girls Primary School at 8pm. All residents are welcome to come along on the night to show support. A fun night guaranteed with special guests and raffle! For any enquires call Emmet on 087-7855241. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7586&Itemid=82 A new initiative aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour and shortening response times to these incidents has been launched in Cork. Three pubwatch schemes have been launched here in the Midleton, Carrigtwohill and Cloyne areas. The intention is to reduce drink and drug fuelled anti-social behaviour and to enable a quick response from both the vintners and Gardaí when incidents do occur in pubs. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7587&Itemid=82 Preparations are well underway for the Cork Independent's second first time buyers evening as the event was launched with representatives from the event sponsor, Bank of Ireland in the Douglas Branch this week. The information evening will take place in the Silver Springs Moran Hotel on Thursday 25 March at 6.30pm. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7588&Itemid=82 Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Derry Canty was on hand recently to re-open the Ballincollig YMCA Youth Centre in Innishmore. The original building was destroyed by fire in November 2007 and after extensive refurbishment the centre is back open for business to the delight of all connected. Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7589&Itemid=82 Feed The Birds..... Sisters Mia and Ava Keane from Midleton, Co. Cork feeding the birds at the Lough, Cork. Photo BIlly macGill Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7590&Itemid=82 Big sister Iman Benhaffaf looking after her twin brothers Hassan and Hussein Benhaffaf pictured at a charity motorcycle run yesterday in the aid of the twins, organised by the Rebel Riders MCC in Cork yesterday. Photo Clare Keogh / Provision Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7591&Itemid=82 Micheal Sheridan, Executive Director Mercy University Hospital Foundation, Ray Houghton, Former Republic of Ireland player and Frankie Sheahan, Former Irish International Rugby Player attending 'It's A Man's Thing', in aid of The Men's Health & Prostate Cancer Fund, Mercy University Hospital, Cork. Photo Darragh Kane Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7419&Itemid=82 A Cork mother whose son suffered a three-day psychotic episode after taking "legal highs" has offered her full support to a protest, which takes place outside a Cork City head shop this afternoon (Thursday). The woman, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Cork Independent that she wants the shops closed. She was terrified by her 20-year-old son's behaviour just before Christmas when he took 'Blow', 'Charge' and 'Liquid Ecstasy', which he bought at a Cork City head shop. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7420&Itemid=82 Internet phenomenon Crystal Swing have continued to gain huge attention since one of their videos, 'He Drinks Tequila' went viral last week. Since the Cork Independent spoke to band leader Mary Burke last week, they have appeared on national radio, almost all the national papers and will soon appear on The Late Late Show. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7421&Itemid=82 The accolades keep rolling in for Cork as the city was this week listed by Yahoo China as one of the top ten tourist cities to visit globally in 2010. Cork came in third in the Yahoo China top 10 listing following Istanbul and Kyoto, and ahead of Vancouver and Singapore. The China accolade comes on foot of the Lonely Planet tourist guide listing earlier this year, when Cork was again named third in their league of World Cities to visit in 2010. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7422&Itemid=82 Gardai in an East Cork town are investigating bogus workers who carry out shoddy repairs and threaten homeowners who refuse to pay for the work. A number of families in the town have come across the so-called workers who have promised to carry out services ranging from farm work to driveway repairs. They offer the services at reduced prices and come equipped with business cards and contact numbers. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7423&Itemid=82 The Samaritans in Cork have returned to full service after their premises on Coach Street was damaged in November's flooding. The charity's drop-in service was closed from 20 November until last Monday 1 March due to extensive damage caused by the flooding that resulted in tens of thousands of euro worth of damage to its offices on Coach Street in the city. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7424&Itemid=82 A Cork head shop owner has called for regulation of her industry rather than prohibition, as the Government moves to ban a number of substances on sale as 'legal highs'. The laws are due to come into effect in June when the products will come under the Misuse of Drugs Act. It will make the possession of head shop products an offence, but not all head shop 'legal highs' goods are being blacklisted. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7425&Itemid=82 Whether woman are from Victoria Road or Venus, Cork's First Lady is urging them to join her at City Hall this Monday 8 March to support a fundraising event for International Women's Day. Lady Mayoress Tanya Murphy is asking Corkettes to help her raise funds for Cork's Sexual Violence Centre and the Women of Concern in Haiti. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7426&Itemid=82 On Saturday 6 March, Cork Tourism providers are coming together in Cork City Hall to showcase what is on offer in the rebel county in 2010 and put an end to the myth that there is nothing to do in Cork. RE-DISCOVER CORK is aimed at letting people in Cork know what is available to them on their doorstep. It will be a family fun afternoon from 12pm – 4pm in the millennium hall at Cork City hall with face painting, African drumming, train rides, food samples and competitions throughout the afternoon. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7427&Itemid=82 Tuesday saw the launch of the 2010 Cork's St Patrick's Day festival by the Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Dara Murphy and Grand Marshall Lisa Cummins. The three-day Cork St Patrick's Festival Programme for 2010 is presented by Cork City Council and sponsored by Cork Airport. This year's theme is 'Ships to Shore', celebrating Cork's maritime culture. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7428&Itemid=82 The Ballincollig Business Association (BBA) has organised the first St Patrick's Day Parade in the town for over 25 years and it will take place on 17 March at 3pm. Ballincollig has had so much success in recent years in a variety of fields such as business, sporting, academic and music and this year it was felt that this should be celebrated. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7429&Itemid=82 The final of Cork's Got Talent has finally arrived! It will be held on Saturday 6 March in the Silversprings Hotel with an audience of over 1,000 expected. The event will be hosted by Dave Mac of Red FM. The finalists include singers, dancers and martial artists. It has been an arduous journey for the talented acts that have gotten this far. Auditions for Cork's Got Talent were held in January and over 400 acts auditioned. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7430&Itemid=82 A Cork fashion student is cutting her cloth to fit success this week and hoping her haute couture creations will get more runway time as she has been nominated as a finalist of the Persil Irish Fashion Awards 2010. The creations by Aoife Hassett from Ballydehob came under the microscope when Irish fashion designer Peter O'Brien, Glenda Gilson from TV3's Xpose and Marketing Manager for Marks & Spencer Ireland, Carmel Breheny, judged the contest in search of eight finalists. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7431&Itemid=82 Gardai are still looking for witnesses to the fatal crash that killed a 21-year-old student early Monday morning. Stephen Allen from Calderwood in Douglas died when the white Honda Integra he was driving hit a wall at Carr's Hill on the main Douglas to Carrigaline road, near the Bloomfield interchange, around 3am on Monday morning. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7432&Itemid=82 Cork County Council has been criticised this week for abandoning vacant properties that have not been sold under the Affordable Houses Scheme. Calls are being made this week to transfer the houses into the rent-to-buy scheme in East Cork, following reports that some local authorities cannot sell its stock of homes. Labour's Cllr John Mulvihill Jnr in Cobh urged the movement this week following reports of one local authority unable to shift its affordable homes. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7433&Itemid=82 Cork City Ballet will host an Easter Ballet Intensive School for young dancers in the Firkin Crane Theatre, starting Monday 5 April - Friday 9 inclusive, from 10am to 4pm every day. Prima Ballerina Chika Temma, Bolshoi trained Principal Dancer Yuri Demakov, and international ballet star Guzel Atymtayeva make up the distinguished teaching faculty, providing classes in a variety of dance styles including classical ballet, pointe work, pas de deux and character dancing under the guidance of Cork City Ballet's Artistic Director, Alan Foley. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7434&Itemid=82 Cork director Margaret Corkery will have the pleasure of being able to watch her film being screened in her home city when the multi-award winning 'Eamon' opens at the Gate Cinema tomorrow, Friday 5 March. 'Eamon' opens in Cork following its successful run at various cinemas across Dublin in recent weeks. The director is delighted it will be shown in Cork. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7435&Itemid=82 The leader of the Fine Gael party, Enda Kenny, will visit Cork on Monday 8 March to discuss reform of the health service through his party’s FairCare health policy at a special public meeting at the Silversprings Hotel. If Fine Gael were in Government, the part claims, they would maximize the existing health services, while eliminating waiting lists. The policy outlines that it would change how hospitals work and would require the Minister for Health to be directly responsible for meeting key targets. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7436&Itemid=82 The Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children was only able to answer 60 per cent of calls last year. The Cork branch of the Society has 50 volunteers in Cork who each give fours hours of their time each week to man the Cork Childline call centre, which answered 54,278 calls in 2009. Releasing the figures at its Penrose Wharf branch, the group also announced details of its 'Who's Calling' awareness initiative, which outlines the concerns of young people who use the service. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7437&Itemid=82 News that plans have been lodged to construct the new M20 motorway between Cork and Limerick has been given a guarded welcome. Cork County Council this week welcomed the lodging of plans with An Bord Pleanala while Fine Gael TD Bernard Allen warned that just because plans were in place it didn't mean that the road would be built. The proposed route will commence at the existing Blarney Junction and will join the existing N20 to Mourneabbey near Mallow. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7438&Itemid=82 The Irish Cancer Society has urged Cork people to sign up and volunteer for Daffodil Day, which takes place on Friday 26 March and hopes to raise €4 million euros nationwide for patient care services. John McCormack, CEO of the Irish Cancer Society said: "Everyone has been touched by cancer either directly or indirectly and unfortunately the cancer incidence is growing all the time." Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7439&Itemid=82 Next Wednesday 10 March is the perfect chance to see up close how some of the country's top sports stars use mental strategies to improve their confidence and performance. A special seminar on 'Developing the confident performer' will be held at Nemo Rangers GAA Club aimed at coaches and sports people from all levels to learn more about how different mental strategies, techniques and approaches can be employed to develop confidence. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7440&Itemid=82 'Modfather' Paul Weller, most famously of mod revivalists The Jam and reformed Irish rock group, The Cranberries, confirmed they will perform at the Cork docklands venue this summer. It was confirmed this week that Weller, who sold out at the Marquee in 2008 will return play the Marquee on 27 June. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7441&Itemid=82 A monster Race Night, in aid of Cork Deaf Association will kick starts the Patrick's Day festivities a week early with a green-themed event next Friday at the Shelbourne Bar on MacCurtain Street. People can sponsor and name a horse for €10 with cash prizes for participants if their horse wins. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7442&Itemid=82 The fight against drug dealing in Cork is being stepped up this week with the re-launch of the Cork Dial to Stop Drug Dealing Campaign today (Thursday). The line was first launched in Cork in March 2009 and encourages members of the public to pass on helpful information to the gardai involved in ongoing investigations into drug dealing in Cork. David Lane, Co-ordinator of the Cork Local Drugs Task Force, who will speak at the event, said: Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7443&Itemid=82 Foreign Affairs Minister Micheal Martin this week launched a new masters in diplomacy at UCC. Minister Martin was on hand to cut the ribbon on the new MBS in International Public Policy and Diplomacy, giving a public lecture on contemporary global challenges. The MBS in International Public Policy and Diplomacy is a new masters degree targeted at those hoping to work in international affairs. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7444&Itemid=82 Community groups in the Macroom area were awarded over €12,000 in amenity grants this week to help provide sports and security equipment, as well as help afford community cleaning and wheelchair access. Cork County Council awarded €1,250 for a security system to the Kilinardrish Underage Soccer Club, while the Innishvilla Soccer Club will get €1,250 towards improving the grounds. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7445&Itemid=82 Euromedic Ireland, a leading provider of accessible diagnostic healthcare, has opened a state-of-the-art diagnostic clinic in the Elysian building in Cork City. The centre is Cork's first purposes built out-patient diagnostic centre and will make a range of diagnostics accessible to private and public patients in the Munster region. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7446&Itemid=82 On Thursday 4 March, the annual MedSoc Public Health Day takes place on UCC campus. Stands on display include: free health screening (Diabetes Ireland and Irish Heart Foundation), free First Aid and CPR lessons/Demos (St John’s Ambulance), free advice on all aspects of your health and well being: Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7447&Itemid=82 A charity gig will take place to rise vital funds for Cork Fighting Blindness Choroideremia Project at the Crane Lane, next Wednesday 10 March. Aoife Walsh from Bishopstown decided to run an event that would not only create awareness for this worthy cause in the city but as a daughter and mother to Choroideremia sufferers, she felt the need to help raise funds for this very worthy cause. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7448&Itemid=82 Some of Cork's best known musical celebritieswill join forces to present a Gala Concert in Cork City Hall on Friday 12 March at 8pm. Featured artistes will include Mary Hegarty, soprano; Breffni Horgan, tenor; and Louise O'Sullivan, mezzo soprano. Also appearing are the City of Cork Male Voice Choir and the Chorus of Opera Cork. Conductor is Frank Buckley, accompanist, Eleanor Malone and narrator, Kevin Goggin. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7449&Itemid=82 Speculation that tremors from the devastating earthquake in Chile caused a sea angler to be swept out to sea in Cork last weekend has been discounted. The 28-year-old man was washed offshore in West Cork and rescued by an Irish Coast Guard helicopter at the weekend. Tsunami warnings were issued for over a quarter of the planet after the earthquake, which registered 8.8 on the Richter scale. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7450&Itemid=82 Cork publicans have backed calls from their Limerick counterparts to have The Munster game on Good Friday rescheduled to give the recession-hit pub trade a boost. But Gardaí have warned that, should the game go ahead, the law remains the same and pubs will have to be closed. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7451&Itemid=82 Singer Gavin Moore, dance students from Colaiste Stiofain Naofa's Dance Diploma and members of the Polyphonics Barbershop group rehearsing for an evening of song and dance at the Firkin Crane on 19 March in aid of Haven and Plan Ireland, in association with the Cork Independent. The evening will be hosted by MEP Brian Crowley and St. John's Gospel Choir will also perform. Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7452&Itemid=82 Pictured at the announcement that the Republic of Ireland Strongest Man 2010 will be held in the Silver Springs Moran Hotel Cork Norina O' Callaghan Silver Springs Sales & Marketing Manager and strongman Glenn Ross. Photo: Daragh Mc Sweeney/Provision Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7453&Itemid=82 provision 280210 At the Bord Gais Energy Gala Opening of 21st Cork French Film Festival in the Vision Centre Cork : Director and Actor Christopher Lambert Photo: Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision Thu, 04 Mar 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7373&Itemid=82 The new League of Ireland club on Leeside, known as Cork City FORAS Co-Op will today (Thursday) name the club's first manager as they prepare for life after Cork City FC. The new club, which will be entirely owned by supporters, will play in the traditional Cork City colours of red, white and green and will play at Turners Cross next season, it has been confirmed. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7374&Itemid=82 Councillors have called for 'aggressive' clampers to be dropped by the City Council, with revelations this week that over 5,000 people were clamped in Cork during 2008. At Monday night's City Council meeting there were three separate motions to abolish clamping vehicles that aren't causing a direct obstruction. Councillors also called for the City Council to break the agreement with the current providers of the clamping and towing service, as their actions have been described as "too aggressive". Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7375&Itemid=82 Sinn Fein's branch in Cork has invited local head shop owners to attend a public meeting at the Imperial Hotel today (Thursday), to discuss public outcry over the 'legal high' premises in the city. Organisers of the meeting, headlined 'Head Shops: What's the Story?' have invited head shop owners and concerned members of the public to share their concerns. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7376&Itemid=82 A Former Green Party member has lashed out at the party's behaviour during the aftermath of two Green Party resignations. Following the resignations of Senator Déirdre de Búrca and Trevor Sargent, Independent Cork City Councillor Chris O'Leary said that while Mr Sargent had fallen on his own sword, the behaviour of the Green Party in relation to Déirdre de Búrca reminded him of why he left the party last year. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7377&Itemid=82 Three staff members from the Cork Independent are to join in the newspaper's Haven Haiti Appeal by sacrificing their hair. Fiona Hanley, the newspaper's office and accounts administrator, and journalists Eoin Weldon and Peter Tobin are to have their locks shorn in aid of Haven's work in Haiti. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7378&Itemid=82 Mental Health campaigner John McCarthy is optimistic of change, after taking his 'Delete 59b' campaign to the special Joint Oireachtas Committee set up by Minister of State John Moloney. Afterwards, he told the Cork Independent he was optimistic that there would be change: "I have called on President Mary McAleese to open the Áras, the conscience of Ireland, to those who claim they are victims of abuse." Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7379&Itemid=82 A Farranree mother of a two-year-old girl with Down Syndrome is appealing for help from the people of Cork to pay for a second speech and language therapist for Cork's branch of Down Syndrome Ireland. With over 100 children with Down Syndrome availing of Speech and Therapy classes at ten locations in Cork City and County, Ann Marie Kelly said there is huge pressure for a second therapist in Cork. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7380&Itemid=82 Concerns in relation to a Cork quarry were aired at European level this week as the Watergrasshill Community Association (WCA) had its case heard in Brussels. The group spoke to the European Commission's Petitions Committee, which is made up of a number of MEPs. Thu, 25 Feb 2010 08:00:00 +0100