Greetings, it is wonderful to have seen some sunshine and be back writing this column. There has been lots going on so where will I start?

A new Affordable Housing Purchase Scheme was introduced in Carrigaline and is a crucial part of our Housing Delivery Action Plan. These two-bed and three-bed terrace houses at The Waters Edge on Church Road offer an opportunity for first-time buyers and Fresh Start applicants to attain homeownership. Applications opened on Monday 28 August.

One minute it’s housing and the next it’s heritage - variety is the spice of life. I spent a few lovely hours in Kanturk where I unveiled the commemorative plaque in honour of the memory of Sean P. Keating at Kanturk library. Sean P. Keating, a Kanturk native left an indelible mark on both our county and the United States. His journey from a young volunteer in the Irish Republican Army to a prominent figure in American politics is awe-inspiring. He championed Irish culture, supported numerous charitable causes, and played pivotal roles in New York City government, including deputy mayor. It is fitting that we commemorated this extraordinary man and his legacy in his hometown, and it was lovely to meet so many of his descendants.

Heritage comes in many guises, and I had the pleasure of launching the Irish Community Archive Network (iCAN) in the County Hall recently. This initiative, led by the National Museum of Ireland and the Heritage Council, aims to digitise and preserve local community archives, ensuring our rich heritage reaches audiences at home and abroad. This initiative is a vital step towards preserving and celebrating our unique heritage. People from across the county, alongside heritage groups, are encouraged to submit their proposals to the council's Heritage Unit for integration into the archive. This initiative is a vital step towards preserving and celebrating our unique heritage.

Before I sign off, I want to invite all business in county Cork to enter the inaugural Cork County Council Best in Cork Awards. I see these businesses in action throughout the county as I cross from one side to the other, I witness the contribution they make to their local communities, sponsoring local events. Businesses are the lifeblood of our towns, villages, and communities in county Cork, providing vital jobs, services, and products.

There are incredible businesses with fascinating stories waiting to be told and we want to celebrate them. We are looking for businesses of all sizes to enter whether you are a sole trader, a family business that has been in operation for generations, a brand-new business, or a large multinational. Together, these businesses make our county such an incredible place to live, work and visit.

I am excited to witness the positive impact these initiatives will have on our community, and I encourage your active participation in making our county an even better place to live, work, and visit.