County Mayor's Diary

Cllr Danny Collins

The saying about March - ‘in like a lion and out like a lamb’ didn’t follow through this year. Apparently, we just witnessed the wettest March on record in 83 years. Hopefully there will be nothing left for April showers. So far, April is lovely bright and dry, and it is so nice to see the brighter mornings and evenings.

I am mighty glad the weather has improved as I’ve been so busy traversing the county. I was delighted to be on home turf for the announcement that Bantry Library, a building of great architectural interest, is set to receive a grant of €259,920 from the Heritage Council for external conservation works. Cork County Council applied for the Historic Towns Initiative 2023 grant, which will fund much-needed refurbishment to preserve the library's unique features.

Keeping on the theme of libraries, Spring into Storytime is a national story-time initiative in Irish public libraries which Cork County Council Library and Arts Service celebrates throughout the month of April so enjoy the fun and excitement. The Easter holidays may provide the opportunity to avail of the opportunity for children, parents and carers to attend free readings in some of the branches or avail of the opportunity to joint the library and bring the magic of storytime home with you.

I had the pleasure of officially opening a new outdoor gym in Marmullane Park, Passage West. I love the diversity the role of Mayor of the County brings every day and week. This gym is designed to be universally accessible, which is marvellous and a very welcome amenity to the residents of Passage West and the environs.

The advances in technology never cease to amaze me, so this gym equipment displays a QR code connectable via Bluetooth to a virtual instructor, encouraging users to build and develop their fitness level and skills. I think this will encourage all members of the community of all abilities to make maximum use of this wonderful amenity - especially as the weather improves.

I was honoured to attend our first civic reception in Cork County Hall since Covid which was held to recognise the remarkable achievement of both Orla Finn and Orlagh Farmer on their retirement form football at inter-county level. Both women have had truly remarkable football careers and were members of that inspirational Cork team that won six-in-a-row All-Ireland titles between 2011 and 2016.

The team - I have no doubt - will go down in the annals of Ladies Football in Cork. Having heard both Orla and Orlagh address us on the day, I don’t think this is the last we will be hearing about either lady, there will be great things to come in their futures. Enjoy the Easter break with family and friends.