2020 News and Updates

from Heritage, Commemorations and Creative Ireland Offices

*Added on 08/01/20* Cork County Council Community Fund Scheme 2020 Cork County Council is committed to supporting local communities with financial assistance available through the Municipal District Community Fund Scheme which is administered by the County Council's 8 Municipal Districts. Guidelines are available here. The scheme is open for applications on Monday January 6th 2020 on YourCouncil.

Applications will close at 4pm, Friday 14th February.

Applications are open to the following schemes through this initiative:

1. Capital Fund Scheme - for community groups, sporting and local organisations in who wish to undertake infrastructural projects costing over €20,000 that will improve the range or quality of community-based facilities within their area e.g. community halls, sporting facilities, etc. 2. Community Contract - for Tidy Towns groups who work with Cork County Council on local works and projects, agreed with the Municipal District Officer and local Area Engineer that enhance the area in which the group is active. For the Community Contract it is strongly recommended that you contact your Area Engineer and Municipal District Officer to discuss your proposals before you apply. 3. Amenity Fund Scheme - for community groups, sporting and local organisations in County Cork who wish to undertake projects or purchase equipment that directly benefits communities and meets particular needs. Projects being applied for under this scheme must cost less than €20,000.

For more information visit the relevant section of Cork County Council’s website by clicking here

*Added on 09/01/20* 2020 Farming for Nature Ambassador Awards Now Open for Nominations Your chance to show your appreciation for those who actively care for nature on their land! Do you know of any farmer or farm family who you feel would make a great Ambassador for Farming for Nature? If so, we would love to hear from you! The Farming for Nature Awards 2020 nomination process is open now until 31st March 2020. We are looking for nominations of farmers and farm families who are doing great things for nature on their land while farming in an economically and socially progressive way. Farmers who are proud of what they do and why they do it, and who are happy to share their story with others. We will be contacting our network of ecologists, rangers, heritage officers and others to nominate their farming heroes. For more information visit https://www.farmingfornature.ie/awards/faqs

*Added on 13/01/20* Over €1.85m in Funding for Irish Culture Globally The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht TD, has recently announced over €1.85m in funding by Culture Ireland for the promotion of Irish arts globally during 2020. A total of €875,800 is directed to enable 150 Irish artists and arts organisations to present projects, covering circus, dance, film, literature, music, opera, theatre and the visual arts in 43 countries and build on Ireland's strong global reputation for creativity. Also included in the awards is a total of €980,000 annual funding for the promotion of Irish arts through partner organisations such as Literature Ireland, First Music Contact and Irish Film Institute International and Ireland's cultural centres in Paris and New York who work with Culture Ireland to present ongoing programmes of Irish artists abroad.

Announcing the awards Minister Madigan said "Working towards our aim to double Ireland’s global cultural footprint under Global Ireland 2025, my Department is focused through Culture Ireland on supporting our artists to present their work to audiences worldwide. The talent of Irish artists is endorsed by their continued selection to present on the world’s finest stages from Australia across Asia and Europe to the US and South America. The bodies being funded in 2020 will continue to make great impact showcasing Irish bands in key marketplaces, screening Irish film worldwide and supporting the translation of the work of Irish writers so Irish literature can be read more widely." The full list of supported projects is available to see on www.cultureireland.ie, which include, from Cork, Presentation by Cork Printmakers of 12 Irish artists at London Art Fair, England, 21 – 26 January 2020 and a US premiere of song cycles by Deirdre Gribbin presenting a Chamber Music Festival commission at the Lincoln Center in New York on the 6th of April 2020.

*Added on 13/01/20* MA in Local History (School of History U.C.C.) Applications now Open Applications are now being accepted for admittance to the MA in Local History degree programme beginning in September 2020. Applicants must have an honours degree in History or a cognate subject, or its equivalent. Candidates with relevant experience in local history study (e.g. membership of a local history society and/or a heritage group, publications, etc.) are also invited to apply. Such candidates are subject to the approval of the College of Arts, Celtic Studies and Social Sciences. The part-time MA Degree in Local History is offered by coursework and assessment and runs for two years (part-time) from the date of first registration for the programme. Coursework consists of a taught component of weekly evening lectures (Wednesday 6.30 - 8.30 pm) in Year I. Evaluation is by a 5,000-word essay and continuous assessment, to be completed by the end of the second semester, Year 1 (c. May 2021). A dissertation of 25,000-30,000 words on an approved topic to be submitted by the end of year 2. Lectures are specially tailored to provide a practical guide to the writing of Irish local history, indicating the main sources, their location and how best they might be exploited. Lectures will cover the introduction to sources and archives, approaches to Local History, reading the landscape, maps, census and parish records, Valuation Office records, Estate Records, sources for urban history, oral history and folklore, historiography, landscape and material history, gender and history, labour history, military and political history, cultural history, economic history, demographics, religion and much more. Applications are made through the Postgraduate Application Centre (PAC) in Galway. Further details and application forms are available from http://www.pac.ie/ . NOTE: There is no age barrier and a degree is not necessary in cases where evidence can be provided of an applicant’s interest in local history, e.g., if an applicant is a member of a local history society or has publications on local history topics. For further information please email Dr. Donal Ó Drisceoil, (e-mail [email protected]) or Maeve Barry (e-mail [email protected]).

*Added on 14/01/20* Open Call | LHQ Gallery, Library Headquarters, Carrigrohane Road, Cork Cork County Council is seeking proposals from artists and collectives working or living in Ireland for its LHQ Exhibition Space 2020/2021. LHQ exhibitions will be limited to one month per artist/collective. This is an opportunity to exhibit your work in a community space with the option of putting your work up for sale. There is no artist fee to exhibit. For further information please click the link: LHQ Open Call Further Information – and note that the closing date for receipt of proposals is Friday 21st February at 5pm

*Added on 15/01/20* Culture 2025 National Policy Framework Minister Madigan TD, has published Ireland’s first national cultural policy framework, Culture 2025 – A National Cultural Policy Framework to 2025. It is an overarching framework policy for all aspects of Irelands culture including our natural, cultural and built heritage. To find out more about this policy go to https://www.chg.gov.ie/app/uploads/2020/01/culture-2025.pdf

*Added on 15/01/20* GLAS Grants for Traditional Farmers The Heritage Council, in partnership with the Dept. of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, have opened the 2020 GLAS Traditional Farm Buildings grant scheme, open to GLAS participants only, for applications for the conservation and repair of traditional farm buildings and related structures for farmers. Deadline for completed applications (hard copy only) is 5pm Tuesday 18th February. Further details at http://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/traditional-farm-buildings-grant-scheme

*Added on 15/01/20* New Historical Records available Online New Historical Birth, Marriage & Death records are now available online with all civil marriage records from 1845 to 1944, birth register records for 1919 and death register records for 1969 available online to members of the public. Over 15.5 million register records are now available to the public to view and research online at www.irishgenealogy.ie

*Added on 15/01/20* New Draft National Policy on Architecture - Have Your Say The public is invited to comment on the public consultation phase of a new draft National Policy on Architecture. It’s a great opportunity for people to contribute their ideas to create the conditions for a high quality, low carbon and more resilient built environment for future generations and to ensure that our built heritage lives long into the future. To find out more go to https://www.chg.gov.ie/heritage/built- heritage/architectural-policy/. The consultation phase deadline has been extended to 13th March 2020.

*Added on 28/01/20* New All-Ireland Pollinator Plan 2021 to 2025 - Have Your Say The National Biodiversity Data Centre are preparing a new All-Ireland Pollinator Plan for 2021-2025 and they need your ideas and suggestions – however big, small or radical – to help fight the decline of Ireland’s important pollinators. To survive and thrive our bees need your help. To find out more about this exciting opportunity go to https://pollinators.ie/news/

*Added on 31/01/20* Heritage on the Edge A new platform has gone live on Google Arts & Culture titled ‘Heritage on the Edge’ exploring how cultural heritage sites are being protected against the effects of climate change. It is a most interesting and valuable experience – visit https://artsandculture.google.com/project/heritage-on-the-edgeA new platform has gone live on Google Arts & Culture titled ‘Heritage on the Edge’ exploring how cultural heritage sites are being protected against the effects of climate change. It is a most interesting and valuable experience – visit https://artsandculture.google.com/project/heritage-on-the-edge

*Added on 05/02/20* New EU Habitat Action Plan The European Commission has published its first Action Plan for habitat restoration and conservation of biodiversity in the EU. The plan has originated from the Commission’s Action Plan for nature, people and the economy which outlines a series of commitments on the preservation and restoration to two key types of habitat; dry heaths and dry calcareous grasslands. Both habitat types are considered among the most under threat in the EU. They are among the most species-rich plant communities in Europe and are key habitats for many protected species (plants, birds, insects and other invertebrates, reptiles and mammals). Therefore, their preservation is essential to maintaining a biodiverse ecosystem within the EU. This action plan aims to maintain and restore to favourable conservation status of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) Annex I listed habitat ‘Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco- Brometalia) (*important orchid sites) [6210]’. This habitat includes a wide range of grassland communities. This habitat is considered to be a priority habitat if it is an important orchid rich site. Over half (57%) of the habitat surface is included within the Natura 2000 network, covering a total area of around 9,700 km2. As the conservation status inside the network seems to be better than outside the Natura 2000 sites, the action plan includes measures for the conservation of the habitat both within and outside of the designated sites. Included within the main actions are the development of national and regional agri-environment schemes to maintain the habitat in good condition and incentivise participation. The habitat management measures outlined in this document will also be a useful in guiding the creation and implementation of habitat management plans for this habitat where incorporated into biodiversity net gain or compensation measures in future developments. https://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/natura2000/management/pdf/EUHabitat_ap6210.pdf

*Added on 05/02/20* Checklist of Protected and Threatened Species in Ireland An updated checklist of Irelands protected and threatened species has been recently published by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). The checklist provides a list of the plant and animal species that are afforded legal protection in Ireland, through the EU Nature Directives (Birds and Habitat Directives), and the Wildlife Acts and associated Statutory Instruments (e.g. the Flora (Protection) Order). The species covered in this checklist include; plants, vertebrates, insects and invertebrates. Each checklist also includes species that have been assessed as at risk of extinction on the island of Ireland. The checklist also provides a listing of the plant and animal species that Red Listed and therefore assessed as in danger of extinction, and/or assessed as Near Threatened and likely to qualify for a threat category in the future. In total, 1,050 species are included in the checklists. https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/iwm-116- checklists-protected-threatened-species-2019.pdf

*Added on 11/02/20* Irish Georgian Society Conservation Grants 2020

The Irish Georgian Society is inviting applications for its 2020 Conservation Grants Programme. Funding totaling €50,000 is available through the programme to support works to protected structures and recorded monuments. The Irish Georgian Society’s Conservation Grants Programme is supported through the fundraising efforts of its London Chapter. Over the last six years the Society has supported over fifty significant conservation projects around the country including works to country houses and castles, thatched cottages and historic townhouses, architectural follies, and churches. In marking the launch of this year’s Conservation Grants Programme, IGS Executive Director Donough Cahill remarked “Over the last six years the Irish Georgian Society has awarded €350,000 in small grants to support conservation projects around the country. Houses, churches, public buildings and architectural follies have all benefited from these grants with projects often overseen by heritage and community groups. Grants have been awarded for essential repair works to roofs, gutters and windows; for conservation works to decorative plasterwork and ironmongery; and for building appraisals to ensure best conservation practices are used. Through supporting the conservation of our heritage, the Irish Georgian Society’s grants scheme seeks to benefit everyone through enhancing the built environment of our cities, towns and rural areas.” Application forms are available on the website of the Irish Georgian Society – www.igs.ie/updates - and must be submitted by Monday 2nd March 2020.

*Added on 11/02/20* Cape Clear (Oileán Chléire) Bird Observatory Wildlife Weekends Announced BirdWatch Ireland is delighted to announce the launch of our Cape Clear wildlife courses and events for 2020. Starting in May, we are running five Cape Clear Wildlife Weekends (May, June, July, August & September). These offer a unique opportunity to spend a weekend exploring the spectacular wildlife of with the BirdWatch Ireland Wildlife Officer, Steve Wing. As part of our Heritage Week events, we are holding the Cape Clear Bird Race on the 22 August, which will be organised by the West Cork Branch of BirdWatch Ireland. In September Dick Coombes will lead our ever-popular Seabird to Songbirds course, which will run from the 14-18 September. Full details and booking information is available on the BirdWatch Ireland website: https://birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/cape-clear-bird-observatory/cape-clear-courses/. A couple of testimonials from people who have enjoyed our wildlife weekends and courses on Cape Clear: As a complete novice I leaned loads and was made to feel most welcome. I now know my shearwaters from my gannets and my black headed gulls from my terns! I stayed in the observatory- a great experience thanks to the welcoming warden. A great holiday on a beautiful island | The course on Cape Clear was truly life-enhancing; suddenly all of the brown blurs in hedgerows I’d always taken for granted were given names and destinations and personalities.

*Added on 13/02/20* Cork County Council adopts Pollinator Plan The Midleton Pollinator plan was adopted by members of Cork County Council’s East Cork Municipal District on Monday 3rd of February. The plan builds on the work already carried out in Midleton and on the recommendations of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan to support biodiversity throughout East Cork. One third of Irish bee species are threatened with extinction. This is due to a drastic reduction in the amount of food (flowers) and safe nesting sites in our landscapes. The All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, managed by the National Biodiversity Data Centre, is about everyone, from farmers to local authorities, schools to gardeners and businesses, coming together to create an Ireland where pollinators can survive and thrive. Cork County Council plans to play a leading role in making the island of Ireland a place where pollinators can continue to flourish. Last year, Cork County Council’s East Cork Municipal District successfully implemented actions of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan in public parks, open spaces, road verges and ornamental planting beds. Flower beds were planted with pollinator friendly perennials at The Rock and Coolbawn, spraying of pesticides was reduced and road verges in Midleton and Ballinacurra were left to flower into long flowering meadows. A five acre area of frequently mown grass in Midleton Lodge Park was identified where the frequency of mowing could be altered, leaving it uncut until September each year to allow the existing seed bank of wild flowers to flourish. The meadow was deemed a great success in its first year and native wildflowers such as Self Heal, Knapweed, Yellow Rattle and Birdsfoot Trefoil flourished, as did the very rare Bee Orchid. On visiting the emerging Midleton meadow, as part of a training workshop for Council staff, Dr. Una Fitzpatrick of the National Biodiversity Data Centre commented “Midleton Lodge meadow is the best news story of the year for me”. Schools, community groups and environmental groups already carry out great work in creating and maintaining attractive public areas throughout the East Cork and across the county. The Council’s community fund grants schemes will continue to be made available to successful applicants and these groups will be encouraged to implement the actions recommended in the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and to use the Midleton Pollinator plan as a template for their area. Deputy of the County of Cork, Cllr. Martin Coughlan welcomed the news, saying: “It is great to see East Cork continue its pioneering commitment to pollinator friendly policies and ideas. Cork County Council’s East Cork Municipal District is leading the way in biodiversity initiatives and I look forward to the innovations that they have led being replicated throughout the county. Pollinators play a vital role in our ecosystems and we need to ensure that we support them in every way we can.” Tim Lucey, Chief Executive of Cork County Council echoed the Deputy sentiments and added: “The new Midleton Pollinator Plan reflects the commitment of Cork County Council to lead the way in the promotion and protection of biodiversity. We have seen the benefits of sustainable land management methods, which are simple, cost effective and good for the environment, in our flagship Midleton Lodge meadow. We look forward to working with communities to replicate and cultivate this success.” To see the plan click here

*Added on 17/02/20* Creative Schools and Creative Associates The Creative Schools Programme is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme to enable the creative potential of every child in school, led by the Arts Council in partnership with the Department of Education and Skills and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. In the past two years a number of schools in the County of Cork have signed up as Creative Schools and a number of people now work as Creative Associates, working with the select schools to enhance their creativeness and interaction with culture. Creative Associates are artists, creative practitioners and teachers with a deep understanding of creativity and its potential to transform the lives of children and young people. They come from a range of creative professions, such as artists, designers, teachers and craftspeople. Whether from the arts, culture, heritage, creative industries, education, science or other sectors, they challenge, support and sustain new practice in schools in the field of the arts, culture and creative learning. Applications are now being invited from individuals, organisations and indeed teachers looking to join the Creative Associates Panel for the delivery of the Creative Schools programme for the academic year 2020-21 onwards. The Contract Notice, 2020 application forms and all relevant documents are available to download from http://www.etenders.gov.ie/ and for more information about the programme and the work of Creative Associates visit to http://www.artscouncil.ie/creative-schools/. For any school looking to become a Creative School, applications are being accepted between 18 February and 19 March 2020.

*Added on 17/02/20* Heritage Week 2020 (August 15th to 23rd) - Heritage and Education - Learning From Our Heritage Heritage Week 2020 takes place from Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd August and this year is themed ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’. Engaging with our shared heritage – in Ireland and across Europe – presents a rich source for learning, and an opportunity to rediscover and reconnect with the knowledge, traditions and skills of our ancestors. For Heritage Week this year people are encouraged to explore the close connection between education and heritage, and to consider what our heritage can teach us about our past, what it can tell us about our present and how it can provide fresh ideas for a sustainable future. When we look to the past we understand that there is much we can learn and indeed re-learn. Making and mending clothes, making tools, preserving foods, and cultivating and using plants for remedies were all common skills of the past and Heritage Week 2020 will bring these past ways of life to the fore. This year’s Heritage Week theme also offers an opportunity to celebrate our centuries of educational heritage, and to consider how school curriculums can draw on the lessons from the past to inspire a better tomorrow. From our early monasteries connecting Irish scholars to the rest of Europe; to the times of Ireland’s hedge schools during the 18th and 19th centuries; to school life in the 20th century and our present- day education system – our educational heritage provides much to draw from for talks, workshops, exhibitions and much more. The Heritage Council’s website www.heritagecouncil.ie contains some excellent examples of events that can be held as well as a few important items to consider when organising an event. Registration of Heritage Week 2020 events will not open for a while yet but it is never too early to begin planning and it is hoped that the County of Cork will see a wonderful variety of exciting events.

*Added on 24/02/20* Archaeology Research Grants and Radiocarbon Dates Schemes by RIA Open for Applications The Royal Irish Academy is delighted to announce that two grant schemes offering opportunities for Archaeological research are open to applications until March 24th 2020. Details as follows: Archaeology Research Grants Scheme: The Royal Irish Academy has traditionally run an annual Archaeology Research Grants Scheme in partnership with the National Monuments Service (Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht). This scheme funds projects that provide a significant and original contribution to archaeological knowledge. This year we are pleased to say that the Department for Communities Northern Ireland, through the Historic Environment Division are also partnering with us, allowing the scheme to now operate on an all-island basis. More details and application form Radiocarbon dates Scheme: We are also delighted that Queen's University Belfast have once again agreed to support radiocarbon dating for up to twelve applicants to be used for the purposes of archaeological research in Ireland. A minimum of two out of the twelve radiocarbon dates offered will be exclusively allocated to students. More details and applications form

*Added on 24/02/20* Seachtain na Gaeilge 2020 Seachtain na Gaeilge, taking place from March 1st to 17th 2020 is one of the biggest celebrations of our native language and culture both at home and abroad and there is always a range of different activities and events to engage in. Cork County Council, through its Irish Office always organises a range of Irish events for this celebration of our and hopefully a number of people will be able to partake in the various different activities taking place in County Hall. Whether fluent or if one only has the cúpla focail, Seachtain na Gaeilge is a great opportunity to take pride in our language and learn what it means to people. Indeed, the Irish language in the County of Cork fairs strongly with two wonderful Gaeltachts (Múscraí agus Oileán Chléire) and more and more people throughout the County are upping their Irish skills – people now tend to hear Irish anywhere at all in the County and not just in our Gaeltachts, be they in or or indeed or Dromina. Voluntary and community groups, local authorities, schools, libraries, and music, sports, arts and culture organisations all have the opportunity to get involved in Seacthain na Gaeilge. Visit www.snag.ie for more information and www.corkcoco.ie to see what is happening locally.

*Added on 24/02/20* National Tree Week 2020 (March 21st to 27th) - 'HEALTHY TREES HEALTHY PLANET' For the past number of years Tree Week has been growing from strength to strength in the County of Cork, supported by Cork County Council. National Tree Week is an initiative of the Tree Council of Ireland with the support of Coillte, and this year takes place from March 21st to 27th. It is a week to be proud of our trees; to learn about their folklore and their practical applications and to appreciate how important a healty and diverse tree stock is as we peer ever deeper into the impact that Climate Change may have.

To be part of National Tree Week, Community groups and organisations, schools and people everywhere are invited to organise or participate in one or more events for the week. As well as tree planting ceremonies, the range of events can include forest and woodland walks, nature trails, workshops, woodturning displays, listening to the trees and what lives in the trees. Talks, tree climbing, broadcasts, launches, poetry readings, exhibitions and dramas, and other similar ideas and events are all welcome. Thanks to the support of the Tree Council of Ireland, Cork County Council, through its Environmental Awareness Office and Heritage Unit, will have a number of native trees to give out to local schools, community groups and organisations on a first come first served basis, which can be planted during local Tree Week Events. Cork County Council takes pride in the natural heritage of the County and has been supporting National Tree Week for a number of years. All proposed Tree Week events can be registered on the Tree Council’s website https://treecouncil.ie/registeranevent and to ensure maximum exposure and promotion it is advised that event details are registered on the website as early as possible. Over 30 groups from throughout County Cork were allocated trees as part of Tree Week 2019 by Cork County Council and interest in Tree Week 2020 suggests it will be the benchmark for years going forward. For groups looking to avail of trees for planting and or simply to find out more about our trees and Tree Week itself, email [email protected] or phone 021 4285905. A video on Tree Week, produced by the Tree Council of Ireland is available to view at https://youtu.be/pPi37xCG_fI and all groups engaging in the week are requested to use the hashtag #treeweek2020.

*Added on 28/02/20* Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme 2020 (and details on the continuous Pop-up Shop Scheme) The Creative Ireland Programme is an ambitious one – it is ‘an invitation to the entire country to get involved in something truly inspirational. At its heart is collaboration - between central and local government, between culture and industry, between artists and policy makers - to facilitate an ecosystem of creativity’.

The Programme has five key strands, which are: 1: Enabling the Creative Potential of Every Child 2: Enabling Creativity in Every Community 3: Investing in our Creative and Cultural Infrastructure < 4: The Creative Industries including Media Production 5: Unifying our Global Reputation

The Community Participation Strand outlined above (2: Enabling Creativity in Every Community) is being led by local authorities across the country. As part of the Creative Ireland Programme, each City and County has published a 5-year Culture and Creativity Strategy. The County Cork Strategy is available to view online at www.corkcoco.ie/arts-heritage/creative-ireland or directly at https://www.corkcoco.ie/sites/default/files/2018-11/CreativeCounty_Cork_final.pdf

This strategy is underpinned by the following 6 key priorities: 1: Enhancing and Investing in our Local Cultural and Creative Infrastructure 2: Liberating Creativity – encouraging the exploration of creative ability through culture, both at the individual and community level 3: Knowing Ourselves – fostering a sense of belonging to place through our culture and heritage and expressing this creatively 4: Supporting and promoting full community engagement with culture 5: Showcasing County Cork – supporting and promoting Cork’s cultural wonders and talent at home and abroad 6: Our Native Voice – Our Irish Language

In order to work towards the key themes and priorities of the National Creative Ireland Programme and the County Cork 5-year Culture and Creativity Strategy, the 2020 Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme and Creative Ireland County Cork Pop-up Shop Scheme have been put in place, both of which are being financed through monies from the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. The Schemes recognise the importance of the community sector to the county’s very culture and well-being and aims to support people and communities in undertaking projects and events that are in keeping with any one or many of the Creative Ireland Programme Strands as well as any or many of the 6 priorities set out in the County Cork Culture and Creativity Strategy, in addition to initiatives that will generate awareness of the Creative Ireland Programme as a whole. The Pop-up Shop Grant Scheme is geared at promoting a wide range of activities and is also intended to support a number of festival events throughout the County. Consideration will also be given to events that are being undertaken for the national day of culture and youth – Cruinniú na nÓg – taking place on Saturday June 13th 2020.

Click here to access the Guidance Notes and Application Form for the Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme 2020 (closes for applications on 26/03/20) Click here to access the Guidance Notes and Application Form for the Creative Ireland County Cork Pop-Up Shops Scheme (note this is a continuous scheme with applications invited all year-round)

Please note that the closing date for applications under the Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme is 12:00 noon on Thursday 26th March 2020, to be sent to: ‘Creative Ireland Coordinator, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork or by email to [email protected]. Proposals under the Pop-up Shops Scheme can be received at any stage in 2020; however, only a limited amount of funding has been set aside for the scheme so potential applicants are encouraged to act quickly. For further information on these Grant Schemes or the Creative Ireland Programme email [email protected] or phone 021 4285905.

*Added on 28/02/20* Cork County Council announces the County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme 2020 Cork County Council, in recognition of the importance of the War of Independence and Civil War and acknowledging the enthusiasm that exists within the County to commemorate the centenary of this defining period of Irish history, has announced the opening of the County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme 2020. The County of Cork played a most pivotal role in this four year period of Irish history that in the county alone saw the loss of over 500 lives. Many of the events spanning the period of 1920 to 1923 have great local significance, several having national and even international significance. In County Cork during 1920 there were close to 100 significant War of Independence incidents including close to 20 ambushes alone, resulting in over 50 fatalities. That year in history and this year in centenary commemoration, Tomás Mac Curtáin from Mourneabbey in North Cork was assassinated and his successor, Terence McSwiney who had been a T.D. for mid County Cork in the First Dáil, died after 74 days on hunger strike. 1920 in County Cork saw the most significant Kilmichael Ambush, which resulted in 20 fatalities; the taking of the Military Barracks in Mallow and the official name change from Queenstown to in July 1920, to name but a few occurrences. Speaking of the grant scheme, the Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Ian Doyle noted ‘Cork County Council has already been approached by numerous community organisations throughout the county, looking to undertake commemorative centenary events and initiatives in their locality. This fund will allow the Commemorative Programme for County Cork to do justice to the past and provide the support for those community groups, who today, seek to remember these important historical events. Cork County Council recognises the commitment of local communities in honouring the past and as Mayor of the County of Cork, I encourage communities to consider applying to the fund’. Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey welcomed the opening of the scheme ‘The purpose of this fund is to support local groups, organisations and individuals who wish to commemorate significant events, through a variety of initiatives such as ceremonial events, school projects, the arts, documentaries and exhibitions. In 2016, Cork County Council provided support to over 160 different groups and organisations from throughout the County, resulting in the largest 1916 Commemorative Programme in the country with over 500 events. It is clear that the County of Cork prides itself in remembering the past and the people who made us who we are today.’ The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Thursday, 26th March 2020, which can be made online via www.yourcouncil.ie; emailed to [email protected], or delivered to ‘County Cork Commemorations Fund 2020, Cork County Council, Floor 3, County Hall, Cork. The application form is available to download by clicking here A timeline of centenary events in the County of Cork is available on www.corkcoco.ie/arts-heritage in the upcoming events page of the Heritage section. For further information email [email protected] or phone 021 4276891.

*Added on 28/02/20* National Famine Commemoration 2020 This year's National Famine Commemoration will take place on Sunday, 24th May 2020 in Buncrana, Co. Donegal – the third time the State Commemoration has taken place in Ulster. The ceremony will provide an opportunity for the people of Donegal to honour the memory of those who perished or sought escape for a new life from its ports and will feature National flag and military honours before culminating in a solemn wreath-laying ceremony. Speaking of the Day, Josepha Madigan T.D., Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee noted “The National Famine Commemoration affords us an opportunity to pay tribute to the memory of those who perished and suffered during that desolate time." Schools around the country will be invited to hold a minute of silent reflection on Friday 22nd May in memory of those who perished or suffered loss during the famine while sporting organisations will be invited to observe a minute of silent reflection at sporting and public events taking place on the weekend of the Commemoration. Cork has hosted the commemoration twice in recent years – in in 2009 and in U.C.C. in 2018. These wer both very memorable occurrences and the speech delivered by Uachtarán Michael D. Higgins at this latter event is available to see on https://www.chg.gov.ie/about/special-initiatives/commemorations/national-famine-commemoration/ - an event which saw the involvement of U.C.C., Cork and Cork County Council. It is hoped that schools and indeed groups from around the County of Cork will all play their part in remembering the impact of the Famine in their local area this May.

*Added on 05/03/20* Council's Heritage Plan for Múscraí Gaeltacht wins Acclaim at Irish Planning Awards

Cork County Council received a prestigious accolade at the Irish Planning Awards in Dublin on Thursday, winning the national "Planning and Economic Development” Award for their Heritage Plan for the Múscraí Gaeltacht region, Plean Oidhreachta Mhúscraí.

The award ceremony hosted by the Irish Planning Institute took place in the Westin Hotel on Thurs 27th February with Deputy Eoghan Murphy TD as guest speaker. Awards were presented across a total of 7 categories; plan making, participation and engagement, design, management and delivery, planning workplace of the year, climate change and the planning and economic development category won by Cork County Council. This category rewards planning projects that stimulate tourism or economic development. The award-winning application was submitted by Research and Dig, the lead consultant company who undertook the Plan on behalf of Cork County Council, working in association with Múscraí Gaeltacht group Acadamh Fódhla, and supported by the Heritage Council. The Plean Oidhreachta Mhúscraí is a comprehensive plan which recognises and considers the various unique features of Gaeltacht Mhúscraí which require recognition, promotion and protection including nature, landscape, art, culture and in particular, the Irish language. It identifies the inextricable links between the tangible elements (e.g. architectural, archaeological& natural) and the more intangible elements of heritage (e.g. folklore, placenames, customs, music and poetry). Accepting the award on behalf of Cork County Council and deputising for the Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Gobnait Moynihan, commented “These Awards highlight innovation and excellence in Irish Planning and the competition in 2020 was fierce. It’s great that Cork County Council is getting the recognition it deserves for the ‘Plean Oidhreachta Mhúscraí’.This is the first time such an approach has been taken in the making and preserving of place, where rural development and heritage are brought together in such a symbiotic manner. This considered and comprehensive plan was made possible by the collaboration and guidance of local group, An Acadamh Fodhla, Research & Dig consultants, Cork County Council Heritage Office and the support of the Heritage Council.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey commented, “The calibre of projects at the Irish Planning Awards is very high and this award is a credit to the innovative approach taken by Cork County Council to planning and development. The Múscraí Heritage Plan came about as a result of an extensive participatory process with public consultation meetings, workshops and interviews. All stakeholders are invested and looking forward to the implementation of the plan. I have no doubt it will be adopted as a template for similar approaches to place, by other local authorities across Ireland and further afield.”

*Added on 05/03/20* Cork Schools Garden Competition 2020 Launched

Muintir na Tire, Cork County Council Environment and Heritage Sections, and Griffins Garden Centre have all come together to organise this exciting competition for 2020, which is the eight year of the competition - now officially open for applications with many primary schools across the City and County of Cork having already entered. Speaking at the Launch Cllr. Michael Looney, deputising on behalf of the Mayor of the County of Cork, praised this great initiative that helps children to learn the importance of nature while staying active. Log on now to www.muintir cork.com to register your school for The 2020 School gardens competition.

*Added on 05/03/20* Praeger Grant in Natural History The Praeger Grant in Natural History has just been opened by the Royal Irish Academy. The Grant scheme is named for the renowned Natural Historian Robert Lloyd Praeger, and welcomes applications (particularly those from amateur natural historians) for fieldwork within the Natural History areas of Botany, Zoology and Geology. The scheme, which was last run in 2010 has previously funded a wide variety of fieldwork projects, such as ‘The diet of the hedgehog in suburban Dublin’; ‘The Ecology and hydrology of an isolated tidal pool in karst limestone’, and ‘A Vegetation survey of Fenor Bog, Co Waterford’.Further details of the scheme, including application information can be found here (https://www.ria.ie/praeger-grants-natural-history) and the scheme closes for applications on Tuesday 15th April 2020.

*Added on 16/03/20* Cork County Council Age-Friendly Grants Cork County Council, through its Age Friendly County Programme is now accepting applications for funding from groups interested in developing Age Friendly initiatives in their town. , Bandon, Cobh and have succeeded in securing this funding in the past and continue to work with the council’s Age Friendly County Programme to build on their achievements. This round of funding will offer communities throughout the county the opportunity to emulate their success. Examples of age friendly initiatives implemented in participating towns include accessible public seating, promotion of age friendly businesses, social inclusion events and public realm enhancements. The Cork County Age Friendly programme aims to support the development of a network of Age Friendly towns across County Cork and the current fund cycle from 2020 - 2021 will provide financial assistance to additional groups seeking to designate their town as Age Friendly. Announcing the opening of fund, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Ian Doyle said “Our needs in life change over time and can be different from place to place. This is why it is so important to engage with local communities throughout Cork, as they are best placed to identify opportunities that will make the most difference to the elderly in their towns and villages. We are very proud to support them through our Age Friendly County Programme.” Cork County Council’s Chief Executive Tim Lucey added “Providing for our ageing population is essential to developing sustainable communities. Our support of age friendly initiatives sends a strong message that Cork County is a great place to live for all.” The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday March 27th 2020 at 4pm and for further information visit www.corkcoco.ie or phone 021-4285557 or 021-4285161.

*Added on 16/03/20* National Tree Week 2020 Postponed Tree Week 2020, which was due to take place from Saturday 21st to Friday 27th March has been postponed. As noted on the Tree Council of Ireland’s website (www.treecouncil.ie): ‘Following the Taoiseach’s announcement in relation to COVID-19 specifically regarding mass gatherings of over 100 people; the Tree Council of Ireland, in partnership with Coillte, has made the decision to postpone National Tree Week 2020 and all related public events until further notice. We understand this will disappoint many people who had arranged such Tree Week planting events around the country, but we must prioritise the health and well- being of our communities’. With regard to Tree Week 2020 in the County of Cork, dozens of groups have already registered to play their part. Cork County Council will contact all intended participants with regard to the revised date for Tree Week, once available, and also with regard to the distribution and collection of trees for local events. Given the need to combat climate change and enhance local ecoysystem services, it is hoped that groups will continue to seek opportunities to plant trees in their local environment and that, when Tree Week 2020 does takes place later this year, that there will have been the highest number of participants yet.

*Added on 20/03/20* Leave No Trace Guidelines for Getting Outdoors Responsibly and Safely As we head into the weekend, though ‘weekend’ activities are becoming less defined, Leave No Trace Ireland have published a set of simple guidelines for getting outdoors responsibly and safely amid the Covid-19 crisis. Increasing numbers of people are seeking the natural benefits of getting outdoors, taking in fresh air, letting off pent up energy and enjoying our Island’s incredible nature during this difficult and uncertain time. Now, more than ever, it is vitally important that collectively, we use the outdoors responsibly, taking care of each other and taking care of our local environs, our magnificent wildlife, our lands and waters. As seen in the media, overcrowding at popular outdoor beauty spots, lack of social distancing, increased disturbance of wildlife and vegetation, rubbish left behind, are all indicators that outdoor use is up but we are not caring for our outdoor spaces as we should be. Following Leave No Trace Guidelines ensures we are being collectively responsible in our use of outdoor spaces, protecting ourselves, our families, our fellow citizens and our incredible island. The outdoors is our escape, somewhere to step away from the news cycle and gain some sense of normality. We need to pull together now and protect our nature, our wildlife, our local spaces so that we continue to have somewhere beautiful, natural and available to all the people to enjoy. Plan Ahead – Check weather; bring proper clothing and footwear, water and food. Park and walk responsibly. Expect Closures - Before leaving home, consider lack of usual facilities such as toilets, shops, cafes, restaurants. Stay Home or Local – Unwell? Don’t go! Feeling well? Look for local trails, hidden gems, explore closer to home. Be Considerate: Maintain social distancing throughout the day. Keep group sizes small. There is plenty of space in the outdoors for everyone! Time and Place: Find those hidden gems, avoid peak times, avoid difficult routes. Adhere to HSE guidelines. Leave No Trace: Don’t rely on or add to already overburdened services. Bring your own rubbish home. Be Dog Responsible: Keep dogs under control. Mind out for young wildlife. Pick up and bring home dog waste. Don’t Forget the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace: Remember, prepare for spring weather conditions, stick to trails, dispose of our waste properly, minimise fire impacts, leave what you find, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and be considerate of others. If you are well, remain active through outdoor pursuits, but do your part and comply with the latest Government guidelines issued by the HSE in the and the HSC Public Health Agency in Northern Ireland. For more up to date information and advice about Coronavirus (COVID-19), please visit www2.hse.ie/coronavirus. For ideas on where to find inspiration for safe and responsible outdoor activities, see www.leavenotraceireland.org. Share these ideas with friends and family on social media #LeaveNoTrace #WeLoveNature Leave No Trace Ireland is endorsed by Comhairle na Tuaithe, the National Countryside and Recreation Strategy, and the Northern Ireland Outdoor Recreation Plan as the only recognised outdoor ethics education programme in Ireland that promotes caring recreational use of the countryside. The Leave No Trace message has been adopted by key state and national organisations including government departments, state agencies and national governing bodies of sport, education and training and a range of businesses. These include the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Sport Ireland, Coillte, the OPW, Waterways Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Irish Environmental Network.

*Added on 23/03/20* Dúchas Heritage Journals Available Online For those who may not have copies, Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage has put their two journals up on the internet where they can be downloaded for free. To access them just click on the following link: http://www.duchasclonakiltyheritage.com/index.php/journals where you can either download the complete volumes or individual articles. Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage hopes that they will in some small way help to keep the spirits up during these strange times.

*Added on 23/03/20* Details of Cork County Council's 2020 Heritage Publications - Public Engagement Over the last number of years Cork County Council has been producing a heritage book each year, from bridges to houses and churches to castles. What is very evident in these pages is the great number of wonderful heritage sites scattered throughout the County; not to mention the household names and legendary cultural characters that are synonymous with the Rebel County of Cork. In 2019 Cork County Council undertook two new publications – the Industrial Heritage of County Cork, which was a continuation of the very popular Heritage of County Cork Publication Series, and a colouring book for all ages was also undertaken for the first time, titled ‘the Colourful Heritage of County Cork’. 2020, will see the undertaking of two further publications in the same vein. The Archaeological Heritage of County Cork will be the eighth in the series, a series which, has each year, been supported by the Heritage Council, and Volume Two in the Colourful Heritage of County Cork will also be undertaken, supported by the Heritage Council and also through the Creative Ireland Programme. With social isolation impacting so much on our daily lives due to Covid-19, now is a perfect opportunity for groups throughout the county to put their thoughts together on what sites they would like to see included in each publication, and with regard to the Colourful Heritage of County Cork Volume 2 publication, perhaps even put their pens to paper in drawing some of the County’s heritage sites and historical characters for inclusion in the book. Volume 1 of the colouring book, undertaken in 2019, has met with great reviews and included drawings by a number of people from throughout the County. Copies of this publication are available in many bookshops around the county as well as from the Heritage Unit on floor 3 of the County Hall. For the Colourful Heritage of County Cork Volume 2, Cork County Council is again inviting people to put forward any number of suggestions to include everything from natural and built heritage to archaeological sites and famous people from our past, even including traditional crafts and modern day festivals. The publication, which will be bilingual in both Irish and English, will include numerous drawings and associated text, as well as an overall map to indicate the location of the sites in the context of one another. The primary aim of the publication is to highlight the vastness of culture and heritage in County Cork, and in particular sites that can be visited and enjoyed by all the family. Everyone who submits and has a drawing included in the book will receive a number of copies of the publication to be shared with friends, colleagues, classmates and family alike and it is anticipated that the book will be published just before Christmas 2020. Cork County Council will be delighted to receive all suggestions and recommendations, and in particular, any drawings or sketches, up to the closing date of Friday the 29th of May. With regard to the County’s archaeological heritage, this truly is vast. One certainly does not need to travel far to come across an archaeological feature in the county, not surprising given that there are over 19,000 entries alone in the archaeological record (Cork Archaeological Survey). While previous publications in the Heritage of County Cork Series have touched on many more recent aspects of archaeology, this upcoming publication will pay particular attention to prehistoric monuments and those from the later periods that have not yet featured covering a range of periods from the Mesolithic; Neolithic and Bronze Age, to the Iron Age; Early Christian Age and elements of the Medieval and Post-Medieaval periods. Archaeological sites and monuments tell so much of Cork's history and heritage, ranging from stone circles and megalithic tombs to ringforts and Fulacht Fia, and this publication sets out to convey how our archaeology is at the heart of community, particuarlly with regard to the identity of place. One of the most important elements of this publication, if not the most important, is the input of local heritage groups and enthusiasts. Past publications in the Heritage of County Cork Series have benefited hugely from a great number of public submissions including photos for use, stories, and indeed lists of recommended sites that should be featured in the book(s). With respect to the upcoming publication on the County’s Archaeologial Heritage, the Heritage Unit of Cork County Council would be delighted to see a similar response in 2020. To this effect local heritage societies, community groups and individuals are requested to get involved in the project by submitting any specific information/stories/photos of interest to Cork County Council by Friday 29th May 2020. The publication will set out to include and reference as many submissions as possible and for further information email [email protected] or phone 021 4285905.

*Added on 24/03/20* Archaeology Research Grants and Radiocarbon Dates Schemes Extended Deadline The Royal Irish Academy is delighted to announce that two grant schemes offering opportunities for Archaeological research which were open to applications until March 24th 2020 have now been extended up until 14th April 2020. Details as follows: Archaeology Research Grants Scheme: The Royal Irish Academy has traditionally run an annual Archaeology Research Grants Scheme in partnership with the National Monuments Service (Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht). This scheme funds projects that provide a significant and original contribution to archaeological knowledge. This year we are pleased to say that the Department for Communities Northern Ireland, through the Historic Environment Division are also partnering with us, allowing the scheme to now operate on an all-island basis. More details and application form Radiocarbon dates Scheme: We are also delighted that Queen's University Belfast have once again agreed to support radiocarbon dating for up to twelve applicants to be used for the purposes of archaeological research in Ireland. A minimum of two out of the twelve radiocarbon dates offered will be exclusively allocated to students. More details and applications form

*Added on 25/03/20* County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme 2020 and Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme 2020 Applications Deadline extended up until 12 Noon on Thursday 23rd April 2020 In light of Covid-19 and the sheer impact that this has had on normal community and organisational life, the decision has been taken to extend the deadline for the Commemorations and Creative Ireland Grant Schemes, originally set to close on 26th March 2020. Applications can now be submitted under these schemes up to 12 noon on Thursday 23 April 2020. Full details are available below (see news item dated 28/02/20) and for more information email either [email protected] or [email protected] or phone 021 4285905.

*Added on 31/03/20* Heritage in Schools Scheme The Heritage in Schools Scheme has been running since the year 2000 and its purpose is to encourage greater awareness in primary schools of Ireland’s rich natural and cultural heritage with an engaging and stimulating visit from Heritage in School experts, of which there are 160 specialists all throughout Ireland. Their areas of expertise range from bats to whales, from Vikings to the history of bread, from story-telling to traditional dance, and from charcoal making to military heritage, to mention just a few. The Heritage in Schools Scheme supports the stated aims and objectives of the Social, Scientific and Environmental Education (SESE) curriculum and provides an additional educational tool and resource for teachers. The school visits relate to local heritage and cover heritage topics as defined by the Heritage Act (1995), which include monuments, archaeological objects, heritage objects such as art and industrial works, documents and genealogical records, architectural heritage, flora, fauna, wildlife habitats, landscapes, seascapes, wrecks, geology, heritage gardens, parks and inland waterways. Through the Scheme, the children can develop a knowledge and appreciation for the uniqueness of their locality through trips to local parks, woods, lakes, rivers, sea-shores, old graveyards, castles or churches or other places of interest through structured field trips with a Heritage Expert. The visit is part-funded by both the school and the Heritage Council. For the next School year 2020/2021, schools throughout Ireland will be booking a range of different experts and for the County of Cork, there are over 30 specialists to choose from, with over 100 visits held in 2019 through the County. Indeed, a number of visits were also supported by Cork County Council in 2019 through the Creative Ireland Programme. The Heritage in Schools website (www.heritageinschools.ie) contains a list of the specialists and much further information on the Heritage in Schools Programme, as well as wonderful educational resources for teachers. There are dozens of resource packs covering many different aspects of heritage (http://www.heritageinschools.ie/teachers-resources) including Youghal’s ‘Sir Walter Raleigh's Treasure Trail and Activity Booklet’. Further details on the scheme and how to apply are also available on https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/heritage-in-schools-scheme.

*Added on 01/04/20* How to Research Your Local Monument ‘Now that we are all staying safe at home, it might be an opportunity to begin a research project on your adopted monument or the monuments of your locality. The Heritage Council hopes that the tips and resources provided here can be used by people outside of the Adopt a Monument scheme as this short toolkit provides guidance on researching heritage, history and stories from the comfort of your own home. It gives some pointers on how to get started and outlines the vast amount of information that is available online to help along the way. Not all monuments are castles, cathedrals or prehistoric tombs - they can be lime kilns, cottages, handball alleys, walled gardens and other more recent and humble structures. Researching your monuments and your local area can be exciting and rewarding. Of course you may already know quite a lot about your monuments, but there is always the opportunity to discover new information and stories about the wider local area through research and there is potentially a lot of new information you can discover online. It could include: •Folklore and stories associated with the monument •Old photographs, sketches and drawings •Archaeological excavation reports and details of artefacts found in the area •The background to the name of the monument and associated historical figures' To illustrate this, and for top tips and resources on researching your local monument, access the PDF Toolkit by clicking the following link: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/content/files/Adopt-a-Monument-Research-Toolkit.pdf

*Added on 06/04/20* Documentary on 'The Taking of RIC Barracks 1920' by the Carrigtwohill Branch of the CYDS The Carrigtwohill branch of the ‘ Diocesan Youth Service’ (CDYS) has just launched a documentary on the Taking of Carrigtwohill RIC Barracks 1920, produced in association with Twenty4Films and CDYS, and supported by Cork County Council’s Commemorations Committee. It is a most enjoyable 18-minute feature and a credit to all involved including narrator Killian Kavanagh and Project Coordinator Adrian Nolan. To view same visit https://youtu.be/wKXrsuxE2SQ.

*Added on 06/04/20* Online Writing Workshops from Cork County Council Cork County Council Library & Arts Service, with support from the Arts Council is providing a series of free online writing workshops, designed to support creative writing throughout the county. Three new online courses, beginning on April 29th and running every Wednesday evening until late June, will offer those with an interest in poetry, fiction and the crime-writing genre an introduction to the skills and techniques used in these forms. Welcoming this initiative Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Ian Doyle said, “Ireland and Cork have been, and continue to be, home to exceptional talent in literature. This series of online workshops provides anyone with an interest in writing with the opportunity to work as part of a group with a professional writer. The online forum will provide support and encouragement for their writing. With the support of the Arts Council, we are able to offer these courses free of charge, so that they are accessible to anyone with a love for the written word.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey commented “This new series of online courses is an example of how Cork County Council can continue to support the cultural and creative needs of its citizens in the midst of this health crisis. Creativity is essential to our wellbeing and this imaginative use of digital resources is a dynamic and creative response which I am delighted that our Library & Arts Services have been able to develop at this difficult time for our community”. The courses are free, but places are limited. Applications are open to those over 18, by visiting corkcoco.ie/en/arts/opportunities

*Added on 06/04/20* Michael Collins House Virtual Tour

Usually used to accompany self-guided tours, Michael Collins House, Clonakilty, has now edited the Michael Collins House Virtual Tour Application to make it available to all at home. Containing a 45-minute Audio Guide; Photos and Videos, people can learn all about Michael Collins and the history of Irish independence. The application, which is available online at https://michaelcollinshouse.oncell.com/ (or on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store) now also contains a short 16 min Michael Collins documentary and the new Michael Collins House (MCH) Podcast, Episode One. With the commemoration of the War of Independence being such an important consideration right now – Covid-19 aside - it is a great way of learning all about this pivotal period in Irish life.

*Added on 06/04/20* Cork County Council County Development Plan 2022-2028 Extended Period for Public Consultation In light of recent legislation regarding Covid-19 (Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act, 2020), Cork County Council has now extended the period for consultation on the County Development Plan 2022-2028 up until Tuesday 2nd June, 2020. This is to facilitate engagement by members of the public and to allow for the holding of Public Consultation Events (details of which will be finalised when current restrictions on movement have been lifted). In order to stimulate debate and encourage participation in the Development Plan process a Public Consultation Document has been prepared and is available Online at www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County- Development-Plan-2022-2028. The Consultation Document is accompanied by a series of Background Documents on key topics which highlight the main issues to be considered as part of the Plan review. These documents can be downloaded from www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. The new plan will be different from previous County Development Plans in two key areas. Firstly, it will relate to the new administrative boundary of the county following the extension to the City Council boundary, and secondly, it will include all the settlements of the County, replacing the current 8 Municipal District Local Area Plans adopted in 2017 and the Town Development Plans for the nine former Town Council Towns. The current County Development Plan 2014 as varied can be viewed at County Development Plan 2014. Submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing Plan(s); the preparation of a new County Development Plan and the policies and objectives which should be included in the new Plan to deliver an overall strategy supporting the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, are welcomed from members of the public, children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children and other interested parties. Such submissions can be either written or made online and for more information visit www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. All valid submissions received by the Council will be published on the Cork County Council website within 10 working days of its receipt by the Council.

*Added on 08/04/20* 'SHADOWS' Now Available to Watch Online

Set in West Cork in 1947, “Shadows” tells the story of a middle-aged farmer - Tim Ahern, who is walking with his sixteen-year-old daughter “Mary” to the train station. She is heading off for war-scarred London to work as a nurse. Tim Ahern a veteran of the War Of Independence carries a dark secret, which is revealed during this sad walk with his daughter. The film also shines a light into other aspects of Irish society during that period and in particular the influence of the Church. “Shadows” was filmed in the Clonakilty / area in 2018, with the cast and crew primarily based in West Cork. The short while, which was supported by Cork County Council through the Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme is available to view online at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJ3swlGBxS4&feature=youtu.be

*Added on 15/04/20* County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme 2020 and Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme 2020 Applications Deadline extended up until 12 Noon on Thursday 14th May 2020 In light of Covid-19 and the sheer impact that this has had on normal community and organisational life, the decision has been taken to further extend the deadline for the Commemorations and Creative Ireland Grant Schemes from 12 noon on April 23rd 2020 up until 12 noon on Thursday 14th May 2020. Full details are available below (see news item dated 28/02/20) and for more information email either [email protected] or [email protected] or phone 021 4285905.

*Added on 16/04/20* Local Authorities Pollinator Award Newsletter Spring 2020 For the last number of years the National Tidy Towns Competition Award has included a bespoke biodiversity award - the Local Authorities Pollinator Award. Supported by the Local Authority Heritage Officer Network, which in turn is supported by the Heritage Council, there have been great success stories from around the Country, including from the County of Cork. A Recap of the Award in 2019 and all involved has been produced by Juanita Browne and Úna Fitzpatrick of the National Biodiversity Data Centre, supported by the Heritage Council, and together with a number of Heritage Officers in the Local Authority Pollinator Award Committee, the PDF is now available to view and download online. The publication is aimed at Tidy Towns Groups in particular, to highlight the fantastic work that local communities have been doing to support pollinators and the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan and the document should also provide some great tips and pointers for groups looking to enter the Awards next time around. The PDF can be downloaded by clicking https://pollinators.ie/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Tidy-Towns-Pollinator-Award-newsletter-2020- FINAL_compressed.pdf.

*Added on 16/04/20* White-Tailed Sea Eagle chick born in Nature Reserve, County Cork

Glengarriff Nature Reserve has announced the arrival of White-Tailed Sea Eagle chick, the second born in County Cork in this decade. Parents Black P (female) and Blue W (male) are two of the 100 eagle chicks brought to Ireland from Norway from 2007 to 2011 as part of a programme to introduce this iconic species back to Irish skies after a century of extinction. The White-tailed Sea Eagle reintroduction project is a joint initiative between the National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and the Golden Eagle Trust in collaboration with the Norsk Institutt for Naturforskning (NINA) and the Norwegian Ornithological Society. The project is managed by Dr Allan Mee. Despite the pressures of the Covid-19 situation, Rangers have had a bird’s eye view of the latest developments. Conversation Ranger Clare Heardman commented: “Covid-19 has severely restricted the amount of monitoring we can do this year, so we are especially lucky to have this camera set up so we can remotely monitor the Glengarriff nest. “It's a particular thrill this year to be able to share some of the excitement of watching eagles at the nest with a much wider audience. Many people are largely confined to home at the moment so I hope bringing this bit of nature to people wherever they are brings a spark of joy and a message of hope.” The time leading up to the birth was live-streamed by webcam. The camera was set up by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, with the permission of the OPW. Eagles have been nesting in Glengarriff since 2013. Three years later a pair of eagles at this nest raised the first eagle chick – named Eddie - to fledge in Co Cork in over a century. In 2018 the original female (Green D) was ousted by the younger female P. This new pairing of parents had up to now not fledged a chick. Bad timing and weather, including Storm Hannah were the causes - so the Rangers are delighted with their success now. Ireland’s new influx of eagles are gradually becoming established breeders with around a dozen nesting pairs currently in counties Cork, Kerry, Tipperary and Galway. It is Ireland’s largest bird, with a wingspan of up to 2.45m. Females are around 40pc larger than the males and can weigh up to 7kg. To see the live webcam click here and for more information about the history of eagles in Glengarriff and their breeding attempts click here.

*Added on 17/04/20* Wild Wednesday Webinars: County Cork Farmer Donal Sheehan to Speak on Wednesday 22nd April 2020

The Wild Wednesday Webinars is a series of webinars on the themes of farming, nature and heritage. Co- hosted by the Burrenbeo Trust and the Farming for Nature initiative, they will take place every Wednesday between 8 and 9pm, over the next few weeks. Each webinar will give us an opportunity to virtually meet and listen to a guest speaker as they talk about their ideas, experiences and lessons they have learned in their area of work. You can text in your questions during the webinar through the Q&A button in your webinar window. If you would like to email your questions beforehand or afterwards you can send them to [email protected]. The Webinar is free to attend but one needs to register for it. On registration, you will be sent an email invitation to join the webinar and will be prompted to download the free Zoom app if you don’t have it already. Attending the webinar requires you to have the free Zoom app on your device (you can also download it at www.zoom.us). For those who miss the talks, they will be posted on Burrenbeo Trust’s Youtube Channel. The next speaker in the Series is County Cork based Dairy Farmer Donal Sheehan who will give a talk titled ‘Improving biodiversity on farmland – where there’s a will there’s a way!’ Donal farms a 75-cow dairy herd on ‘Blossom Farm’ near , in the Bride valley, Co. Cork. While Donal runs what would at first be considered a ‘typical’ intensive farm, he has a keen interest in farming in a more nature-friendly way. As he puts it ‘we try to push the boat out all the time trying to make dairy farming more sustainable’. He dedicates a proportion of his farm to biodiversity including ponds, pollinator strips and wild bird cover for overwintering birds. He keeps bees and farms with these in mind minimising herbicide use. Donal believes farmers can make a huge difference in improving biodiversity, lowering their carbon footprint and improving the quality of our water. He is one of the people involved in an innovative new pilot project called The BRIDE (Biodiversity Regeneration In a Dairying Environment) Project which rewards farmers for delivering measurable improvements in biodiversity over a 5 year period. This Webinar takes place between 8 and 9 pm on Wednesday 22nd April and to register click https://bit.ly/WebinarWithDonal. Upcoming talks in the Series include Juanita Browne on 29th April who will discuss Biodiversity in our Backyards and one can register for this Webinar by visiting https://bit.ly/WebinarWithJuanita If you have any feedback or are seeking more information email [email protected] .

*Added on 17/04/20* Discover the Walled Towns of Ireland Workbook for Primary School Children

As the schools are closed and most of us are trying to stay safe at home, the Irish Walled Towns Network has created a workbook aimed at primary school children (9 - 13 yr olds) to keep them entertained and as a way to help to promote the fantastic heritage of our walled towns. The County of Cork has three member towns in the Network (Bandon, and Youghal). The workbook features colouring pages, a building challenge, quizzes and information about some of the features that can be found in our historic towns. The publication can be accessed/downloaded by using the following link: https://www.corkcoco.ie/sites/default/files/2020-04/iwtn-childrens-booklet-17_04.pdf. Drawings and Pictures of the ‘build your own walled town’ construction projects are all requested and will be posted on the IWTN social media channels. Email [email protected] for more information.

*Added on 20/04/20* Reminder to Public regarding any proposals to clear vegetation at this time of year Minister Josepha Madigan TD has been made aware of a number of recent incidents involving the illegal clearing of vegetation and burning on lands. With some limited exceptions, the cutting of vegetation is illegal at this time of the year and burning is not permitted in any form at this time. The dates for the cutting of hedges, burning and clearing vegetation are set down in primary legislation under the Wildlife Acts. Section 40 of the Act prohibits the cutting, grubbing, burning or destruction of vegetation, with certain strict exemptions, from 1 March to 31 August. There is provision in the legislation for some restricted exemptions from the prohibition during the closed period – for example, the current legislation allows both landowners and public authorities to address hedges for road safety reasons at any time of the year. The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan TD, said: “It is my Department’s policy to prosecute those found in breach of the legislation, including public bodies, and any incidents of illegal burning, clearing of vegetation or hedge cutting should be reported to the local National Parks and Wildlife Service Office or an An Garda Síochána.” Landowners are also reminded that where land drainage is an Activity Requiring Consent within a designated site, such work must not be undertaken without the prior consent of the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht or another public authority, if applicable.

*Added on 21/04/20* Cork County Council County Development Plan 2022-2028 Extended Period for Public Consultation In light of recent legislation regarding Covid-19 (Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act, 2020), Cork County Council has now extended the period for consultation on the County Development Plan 2022-2028 up until midnight on Thursday 18th June, 2020. This is to facilitate engagement by members of the public and to allow for the holding of Public Consultation Events (details of which will be finalised when current restrictions on movement have been lifted). In order to stimulate debate and encourage participation in the Development Plan process a Public Consultation Document has been prepared and is available Online at www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County- Development-Plan-2022-2028. The Consultation Document is accompanied by a series of Background Documents on key topics which highlight the main issues to be considered as part of the Plan review. These documents can be downloaded from www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. The new plan will be different from previous County Development Plans in two key areas. Firstly, it will relate to the new administrative boundary of the county following the extension to the City Council boundary, and secondly, it will include all the settlements of the County, replacing the current 8 Municipal District Local Area Plans adopted in 2017 and the Town Development Plans for the nine former Town Council Towns. The current County Development Plan 2014 as varied can be viewed at County Development Plan 2014. Submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing Plan(s); the preparation of a new County Development Plan and the policies and objectives which should be included in the new Plan to deliver an overall strategy supporting the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, are welcomed from members of the public, children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children and other interested parties. Such submissions can be either written or made online and for more information visit www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. All valid submissions received by the Council will be published on the Cork County Council website within 10 working days of its receipt by the Council.

*Added on 21/04/20* Irish Language Gaeltacht Summer Courses will not go ahead in 2020 Following consultation with health authorities and in the interests of protecting public health, having regard to the emergency measures being taken due to Covid-19, it has been announced by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht that no Irish language courses will be run in the Gaeltacht this summer as a result of Covid-19. It is recognised that this is an unusual, uncertain and challenging period and that this decision is a major blow to Gaeltacht areas and to the many thousands of students who had looked forward to attending courses over the summer. The health of our communities is the priority, however, and everybody has a role to play in the efforts to stop the spread of Covid-19. The Department has also confirmed that Gaeltacht households will not now be required to submit new engnineers certificates this year under the terms of Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge - as had previously been requested - and that the Department will be in contact with the households in question at a later date in relation to this.

*Added on 22/04/20* Inventories and Intangible Cultural Heritage Survey The DIGITAL ICH Observatory is conducting a survey on Inventories & Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). With this survey we intend to study the practices and opinions of users of ICH inventories. The survey refers to the different domains of ICH - oral expressions (legends, folk tales, traditional songs ...); arts and crafts; celebrations and rituals; performing arts (popular theatre, traditional dance...) and knowledge and practices related to nature and the universe. The sampling procedure is based on the snowball technique. So, please feel free to disseminate this message among your relevant contacts (ICH practitioners, representatives of communities, researchers, State entities, NGOs, heritage professionals, museums, ...). This survey is anonymous. No information about your identity is asked. The data will only be used for statistical treatment. Estimated time to answer: less than 15 minutes. Complete the survey through the link: Survey Inventories & Intangible CulturalHeritage

*Added on 22/04/20* Stories from the Waterside - Storytelling Competition

The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) in partnership with Inland Fisheries Ireland, Waterways Ireland, The Heritage Council and The Heritage Officers Programme have launched a national Storytelling Competition ‘Stories from the Waterside’ / ‘Scéalta Ó Thaobh An Uisce’. The competition is open to all with €4,000 in prizes to be won. Entries are welcomed from across the Island of Ireland and may be submitted in either in English or Irish. Stories should be 600 words or less and only original and previously unpublished stories. The closing date is 31st May 2020. We encourage online entrants through the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) website: http://watersandcommunities.ie/stories-from-the-waterside/ but you can also enter by post if you prefer. This website includes full details of how to enter the competition and the full Terms & Conditions.

*Added on 23/04/20* Farming for Nature Publication The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, T.D., has announced the launch of a new book dealing with agriculture and the environment, titled ‘Farming for Nature: The Role of Results- Based Payments’ which has been published by the National Parks & Wildlife Service of her Department and Teagasc. Minister Madigan welcomed the publication of the book by her Department: "I am pleased to announce the online launch of this important book, co-published by my Department and Teagasc. Farming has shaped the Irish landscape over many centuries and plays a dominant role in the fortunes of our native Irish flora and fauna, habitats and waterways. This book presents various lessons learned over decades of work involving farmers and practitioners, who have helped evolve new approaches to farming for nature in modern Ireland. This book shall serve as a useful review of what has been achieved to date, while providing important considerations for the future." Several projects and programmes in Ireland are widely acknowledged as frontrunners in the design and implementation of results-based approaches for conservation of farmland biodiversity. Results-based approaches are the focus of a growing discussion about improved biodiversity conservation and environmental performance of EU agri-environmental policies. This book outlines lessons learned from a collection of Irish case studies that have successfully implemented results-based approaches and payments for the conservation of farmland habitats and species. The case studies detailed in the book include prominent projects and programmes: the Burren Programme, AranLIFE, KerryLIFE, the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme and Result-Based Agri-environmental Payment Schemes (RBAPS) project. The case studies and accompanying chapters share some of the Irish experience in developing results-based approaches by, for example, providing actual farm plans and scoring sheets, as well as detailing governance mechanisms, the role of advisory services, the choice of indicators, monitoring details and the relationship between results and payment. The book also includes reflections on the scientific background to results-based approaches and their policy context. It concludes by asking: where do we go from here? This book is intended for an international audience of practitioners, policymakers and academics interested in results-based approaches for the conservation of biodiversity and the provision of ecosystem services. The book has clear relevance to research, policy and practice in the area of agriculture, environment, sustainability and rural development. It is borne out of close collaboration between practitioners and researchers. It is planned to physically launch the book in autumn 2020, but is available now for free download on the NPWS website at https://www.npws.ie/news/farming-for-nature-book

*Added on 23/04/20* The Impact of Covid-19 on the Heritage Sector Survey The Heritage Council has announced details a survey looking at the impact of Covid-19 on the heritage sector, which is accessible via the Heritage Council website at: https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/news/news- features/heritage-sector-survey. The questions have been developed from looking at existing surveys, testing on volunteers and from consultation with RedC. The Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has also helped devise the questions. Basically, it seeks to quantify how the sector is being impacted by the Covid 19 crisis. All community groups, heritage professionals, etc. are encouraged to participate and the closing date is 6th May 2020.

*Added on 24/04/20* Irish Historical Town Atlases Available online - Youghal just added

Irish Historic Towns Atlas (IHTA) no. 27 Youghal by David Kelly and Tadhg O'Keeffe, published by the Royal Irish Academy in 2015, is now available online for download, being the second Historic Town Atlas undertaken for Cork (the first of which was the walled town of Bandon in 1988 by Patrick O’Flanagan). The atlas collection has histories of over 1,500 urban sites with Ordnance Survey maps, thematic text maps and historic images in the text section. It can be compared with other Anglo-Norman towns in Ireland. IHTA Online contains tens of thousands of histories of urban sites with various cartographic material. See https://www.ria.ie/research-projects/irish-historic-towns-atlas for more information.

*Added on 24/04/20* Oral History Network of Ireland Summer Update The Oral History Network of Ireland (OHNI) undertakes great work in the field of Oral Heritage. Below is a number of updates from the OHNI regarding postponement of the Annual Conference for 2020 and details on upcoming online events and workshops. 1: Postponement of Annual Conference: In light of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the OHNI Steering Committee has decided unanimously to postpone our annual conference until 2021. We are currently working to reschedule dates and will keep you updated on our progress. Delegates who have been accepted to present at the conference will be invited to present at next year’s event. We wish to thank everyone involved in conference planning for their patience and support during these challenging times. 2: OHNI Virtual Networking Event, Thursday 30 April, 6–8pm: Booking is now open for our first online networking event, which will take place via Zoom. This free event is designed for oral historians to meet in an informal setting to discuss ideas, talk about past or current projects, and get to know other people involved in oral history. It is also an opportunity to share your views on how OHNI can develop in the months and years to come. To attend this online networking event, please register your details using the link here. 3: ‘Oral History Basics’ Online Training Workshop, Friday 15 May, 1–3pm: This two-hour online workshop is specifically designed for beginners who are interested in learning more about oral history and its potential as a research methodology. It outlines some of the key issues to consider when using oral history and offers a preliminary introduction to project planning, ethical considerations, interview techniques and potential outputs. This event will take place via Zoom. Prices are €15 for members and €20 for non-members. For further information and to book your place, please visit here 4: Panel Discussion: ‘Social Distancing and Oral History’: We are currently planning an online panel session, titled ‘Social Distancing and Oral History’, which is due to take place on Friday 19 June. We will circulate full registration details and further information on speakers in the coming weeks.

The OHNI is always looking for active new members and have a range of opportunities available. Details on how to become a member can be found here. If you have any suggestions for how OHNI can assist oral history practitioners during the current pandemic, make contact by emailing [email protected] or through the relevant social media pages.

*Added on 24/04/20* New Publication: Gardening for Biodiversity

A new publication to help everyone to help wildlife in their gardens, no matter how big or small, has been launched. The brainchild of Juanita Browne, the booklet was produced by Local Authority Heritage Officers across Ireland, with help from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Heritage Council. Taking a very practical approach, the book details projects to help wildlife of all kinds under a range of headings, with tasks suitable for everyone from the total beginner to the more ambitious DIY enthusiast. With clear instructions and step-by-step drawings by illustrator Barry Reynolds, the guide offers the gardener lots of options to help our biodiversity. Catherine Casey, Heritage Officer with said “We are all becoming much more conscious of what is in our own immediate area, and we know from an increase in enquiries that many people are taking a great interest in the birds, bees and bugs that are visiting their gardens. We hope that this little guide will help anyone who has the time and interest now to make their garden a haven for wildlife.” With increasing agricultural intensification, gardens in many areas can be an oasis for wildlife, and with small changes we can make them even better. The guide outlines actions that can be taken to improve gardens for birds, bees, butterflies, bats and more, and the good news is many of the steps that can be taken are really easy. Just leaving an “untidy” corner of your garden for nature, leaving roadside verges to grow naturally or allowing some of the gold star plants for biodiversity - dandelion, willow, bramble, clover, ivy - a spot in your garden can reap huge dividends for wildlife. Author of the guide, Juanita Browne said “I hope that this simple guide to gardening with biodiversity in mind will help all of us to create gardens that are more wildlife-friendly. Gardening for biodiversity doesn’t equate to letting your garden go wild, but simply doing things a little differently. For instance, when choosing plants to buy in a garden centre, perhaps you could choose plants that have insects on their flowers. Or you could create a wildflower strip around your lawn where dandelions, daisies, clover and other wildflowers are allowed to grow. These small changes can bring huge benefits for biodiversity” For the more adventurous the book contains step-by-step guidance on how to build a bird bath, create a log pile for hedgehogs and mini beasts, and how to install a pond or bog garden. With an estimated 2 million gardens in this country, action by just some of those gardeners could make a huge difference for our native wildlife. But it won’t just benefit the biodiversity. There is increasing evidence that time spent in nature is good for our own mental health and well-being too. As more of us spend time closer to home, regular contact with the natural world has become ever more important. A 2016 World Health Organisation review found that urban green spaces, such as parks, playgrounds, and gardens, can promote mental and physical health, and reduce morbidity and mortality in urban residents by providing psychological relaxation and stress alleviation, stimulating social cohesion, supporting physical activity, and reducing exposure to air pollutants, noise and excessive heat. “Gardening for Biodiversity”, funded by the Department for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht as part of an initiative to encourage projects under the National Biodiversity Action Plan, is available to download for free on www.corkcoco.ie by clicking here. Free hard copies may be ordered from your Local Authority Heritage Office and to obtain a copy in the County of Cork simply send an email to [email protected].

*Added on 27/04/20* Gréasáin na nGael (an tOireachtas) - Suirbhé/Survey An tOireachtas, the Irish cultural organisation has set up a new website entitled Na Gréasáin: www.greasain.ie. This website has been set up to form a linkage between the various Irish language groups and organisations throughout the country. As part of this development they have created a questionnaire/survey. The purpose of this questionnaire is to gather information from the Irish language community, nationally, on the opportunities for Irish speakers to use the language and to develop their own networks. The results of this research will inform work in developing a strategy to this end. "Tá An tOireachtas tiomanta do ghréasáin Ghaeilge a bhunú agus a bhuanú agus ba mhaith linn eolas a bhailiú ó phobal na Gaeilge, ar bhonn náisiúnta, chun ár gcuid oibre a stiúradh i bhforbairt straitéise chuige sin. Tá muid ag lorg eolais mar sin, maidir leis na deiseanna atá ann do dhaoine le Gaeilge an teanga a úsáid agus gréasáin dá gcuid féin a fhorbairt. Bheimis fíorbhuíoch dá nglacfá páirt sa taighde atá ar bun againn tríd an gceistneoir ar líne seo a líonadh isteach agus é a roinnt ar do theagmhálacha féin. Míle buíochas".

Click on this link to fill in the questionnaire: https://t.co/6YdyA1srx1?amp=1 Cliceáil ar an nasc seo chun an ceistneoir a líonadh isteach: Suirbhé Moncaí

*Added on 29/04/20* Creative Ireland Update: Creative Schools Documentary on RTÉ1 (Sunday 3rd May, 2020, at 18:30) and Extension of Deadline for Creative Schools Applications Supported by the Creative Ireland Programme, a Creative Schools documentary will take place this coming Sunday, 3rd May, 2020, on RTÉ1 at 18:30. It follows the journey of a number of schools through the Creative Schools Process and features schools from around the country including Donegal, Mayo, Kerry and Dublin. All of those with an interest in creativity within schools are encouraged to contribute to the online conversation on social media during the airing of the programme (hashtag #Creativekids). In addition, the deadline for the application of the next round of Creative Schools has been extended until Thursday 25th June 2020. Please find the relevant details here. This is a great opportunity for schools to really understand what is involved in Creative Schools and still have time to apply for the next round.

*Added on 05/05/20* 'Old House New Home' New Publication on the Repair and Reuse of Historic Buildings

The Department of Culture, Heritage and Gaeltacht & Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland announce new innovative publication which offers free guidance on the repair and reuse of historic buildings. Supported by the Creative Ireland Programme it is an innovative e-publication, offering free guidance and advice on repairing and reusing historic buildings. It explains how to understand your home, conserve period features and reimagine it for contemporary living, while maintaining the character and craftsmanship that come with historic properties. The guide includes a wealth of case study projects representing different sizes, conditions, characteristics and locations – from homes in urban and suburban settings to the adaptation of farmhouse complex, their yards and outbuildings. It also includes video footage telling the remarkable stories of five different built heritage scenarios - two urban residences above shops, a Cow House within a farmyard, a subdivided Georgian Town House and an Officers’ Mess that was the focus of a former military complex. These projects are of different scales, settings and complexities, but all have been reimagined for 21st century living, whilst retaining their unique architectural character. The success of many of these case studies is not just in the design of new works but also in the repair and conservation of historic fabric and retention of character. ‘These concepts,’ Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, TD, said, ‘of high quality design, reuse and good repair are of paramount importance to urban and rural regeneration alike, but of particular relevance to informing how to reimagine the historic building stock that lies vacant at the heart of our towns and villages’. ‘As well as making distinctive homes’, the Minister continued, ‘the reuse and repair of existing buildings is an important response to climate change and urban revitalisation. Consideration of reuse and reimagining of existing building stock, their embodied energy and craftsmanship is a carbon neutral option, which is part of sustainable development’. Old House New Home, hopes to encourage more people to consider the repair and reuse of vacant or under- utilised buildings in our urban neighbourhoods and towns and in rural settings. The publication is available by clicking here.

*Added on 05/05/20* Minister Madigan launches Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 (Saturday 13th June 2020) - Ireland's National Day of Free Creative Activities for Children and Young People Josepha Madigan TD, Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht today (5th May 2020) announced details of Cruinniú na nÓg 2020, Ireland’s national day of free creative activities for children and young people under the age of 18. Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 is a collaboration between the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the Creative Ireland Programme, local authorities and RTÉ, and is part of the Government’s #InThisTogether campaign which is supporting everyone to stay connected, stay active and look after our physical and mental wellbeing. Announcing Cruinniú na nÓg 2020, Minister Madigan said: “Creativity and culture are powerful means through which children and young people can explore communication and collaboration, stimulate their imaginations to be inventive and harness their innate curiosity. Creativity also helps to encourage social responsibility and personal qualities related to wellbeing such as resilience, empathy, and a capacity for connection and friendship. Over the past 2 years Cruinniú na nÓg has been a key point in the calendar for children and young people to try something creative, develop an appetite for discovery and acquire new skills – and 2020 will be no different.” In light of the public health restrictions currently in force, the Creative Ireland Programme and its partners have developed a number of creative, cultural and engaging “calls to action” which children, young people – indeed entire families – can create in their own homes and gardens on Saturday 13th June. Highlights will include: · Céilí in the Kitchen – A collective call to action for children, young people and their families to create a Céilí in their kitchen for Cruinniú, with Áirc Damhsa, who will guide us through the Irish tradition of these communal social events that take place in houses. · Let's Go Fly a Kite – A collective call to action for children, young people and their families to make and fly a kite for Cruinniú, in your county colours. On Saturday 13th June, in partnership with the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, in your back yard or on your street, with your back to the wind slowly let your kite leave your hand and watch it majestically rise into the air. · Become a Story Keeper – Fighting Words and Great Lighthouses of Ireland are inviting young writers between the ages of 7 and 12 years to become Story Keepers – to create a story inspired by lighthouses. Lighthouses are places of wonder that can provide safety and guidance on a journey through danger. · Create a Video Game App – If you could click your fingers and create a video game app, what would it be? A racing game or a coin collector? A target game or a platform? The choice is endless and it’s time for you to decide. Let us know and together with Whizz Kids Training, via their ground-breaking Digital Skills Virtual Classroom, we will help bring young people into the world of software design in 4 easy tutorials.

Online supports and resources are being provided by the Creative Ireland Programme in partnership with Áirc Damhsa, The Design and Crafts Council of Ireland, Great Lighthouses of Ireland, Fighting Words, Whizz Kids Training and RTÉ to enable children and young people to unleash their creativity. Everyone is invited to celebrate our culture and creativity and to start taking part online now, as we prepare for Cruinniú na nÓg on Saturday 13th June 2020. Further details and resources will be available from the Creative Ireland website and RTÉ platforms up to and including Saturday 13th June – see www.creativeireland.gov.ie and www.rte.ie. In addition, local authorities will also be hosting a range of cultural and creative activities and online events for Cruinniú na nÓg – full details will also be available at www.creativeireland.gov.ie. Minister Madigan added: “Central to the vision underpinning the Creative Ireland Programme is the belief that participation in cultural and creative activity promotes the wellbeing of the individual, the community and the nation. Looking after our physical and mental wellbeing is more important now than ever, and this is why only recently An Taoiseach launched the #InThisTogether campaign from Healthy Ireland – an initiative in which my Department and the Creative Ireland Programme are playing our part.”

*Added on 07/05/20* Invasive Australian Flatworms Discovered in West Cork From https://www.rte.ie/news/regional/2020/0504/1136386-flatworm-cork/: ‘Three invasive Australian flatworms have been discovered in Co Cork. A spokesperson for Friends of the Irish environment said she discovered the flatworms in her vegetable patch in the Beara peninsula in West Cork. Caroline Lewis told Morning Ireland that she had never seen one before (they are bright orange and flat) and warned that it could have significant effects on the environment and economy because it is an invasive species and could compromise soil fertility because it eats earthworms, which are essential to soil fertility. She said that there is no alternative but to kill them. She added that she does not like to do this, but she 'popped them in the freezer.' Ms Lewis warned the Australian flatworm could be quite widespread throughout Ireland, explaining that she never sees them during the day and only discovered them because she removes slugs from her vegetable patch every night. She said it was important to record sightings of them on the National Biodiversity Centre database’. The National Biodiversity Data Centre contains information on the many thousands of species that can be found throughout Ireland including details on a number of Invasive Species. Visit https://www.biodiversityireland.ie for more information.

*Added on 08/05/20* How Well do you KnowYour5K Heritage? Due to Covid 19 we have all become much more familiar with our immediate locality. This can help us to see things in a new light by noticing what we may have overlooked before. ‘Know Your 5K’ is a new initiative from the Heritage Council and National Museum of Ireland which provides an opportunity to share discoveries about our hidden heritage. The project helps the public to use a wealth of online resources to find out more about the story of their locality. Heritage is a very broad term. It includes archaeology and architecture like ancient monuments, old graveyards or historic buildings. It can be old documents, photographs or letters of historic value. It includes natural heritage like flora and fauna, rivers, lakes or mountains. It also includes local names for fields, music and songs, poems and storytelling, crafts and traditions, sports and leisure. Virginia Teehan, CEO of the Heritage Council stated that: “This crisis affects us all, our families, our friends and our colleagues, we have all felt anxiety or fear yet amidst all this people are seeing their immediate area with new eyes. In ‘KnowYour5k’ we are looking for any aspect of heritage that interests you, and that is associated with where you are. Tell us about your local historic graveyard, or the history of an old limekiln in your locality. You might have photographs or letters from long ago about a time or place, or you might know a folk tale behind a particular bridge or fairy tree. Was the old, dilapidated ballroom once the scene of romance? Was a field once the venue for hurling or football matches against the local rivals? Do the ruins of an old cottage at the end of the lane have a story to tell?’ Lorna Elms, National Museum of Ireland stated that the project can also be enjoyed by those cocooning in their home: ‘Evidence of our history and heritage can be found inside our homes and businesses as well as outside in our local environment. The KnowYour5K project is encouraging people to look around their homes and identify heritage items or architectural features. In attics, cupboards and drawers across the country, there may be forgotten letters, photographs, medals, newspaper clippings and other artefacts and memorabilia that could help to document many aspects of Irish history.’ Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Josepha Madigan welcomed the new collaboration: ‘Our heritage reminds us of our long history and great resilience, which is so important right now. This very practical and local initiative will brighten up many people’s days around Ireland over the coming crucial weeks. So many of our heritage, cultural and arts organisations are playing an invaluable role lifting our spirits and I want to thank both The Heritage Council and National Museum.’ Know Your 5k is part of the Heritage Council’s Adopt a Monument Scheme community heritage project, managed by Abarta Heritage. This project is a collaboration between the Heritage Council and the National Museum of Ireland. You can find more information about KnowYour5k on the OurIrishHeritage.org website - https://www.ouririshheritage.org/content/category/archive/place/knowyour5k Our Irish Heritage is the home of the Irish Community Archive Network (iCAN), a National Museum of Ireland project that is dedicated to improving access to Irish history and heritage by helping communities share their local collections online. On the website you can find a how-to section to help you to research your locality, you can browse other people’s submissions to see what they have in their area or you can submit your own through an easy to use form. The hope is that the KnowYour5k project will help people to discover the heritage that surrounds us all!

*Added on 08/05/20* Visiting the Offshore Islands ‘The Covid-19 pandemic is having a noticeable effect on the way in which we are and will be, over the short term, undertaking our day to day activities. It is of paramount importance that the highest priority be given to the health and welfare of the community. The Department is keenly aware of the concerns among the island communities regarding visitors to islands, particularly in these summer months. In accordance with phase 5 of the recently published roadmap issued by the Government for the reopening of Ireland’s economy and society, it is not envisaged that Ireland’s offshore islands will be opened for visitors until 10 August. The roadmap can be viewed here https://www.gov.ie/en/news/58bc8b-taoiseach-announces-roadmap-for- reopening-society-and-business-and-u/?referrer=/roadmap/. Accordingly, the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht reminds individuals, save for the permanent residents of those islands and those undertaking essential services, do not visit our offshore islands until 10 August. It is recognised that we are all in an unprecedented period, which creates challenges for us all. That said, these challenges will be best overcome if we work in partnership for the benefit of the communities we serve’ (Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, May 8th 2020).

*Added on 12/05/20* Cork County Council County Development Plan 2022-2028 Extended Period for Public Consultation In light of recent legislation regarding Covid-19 (Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (Covid-19) Act, 2020), Cork County Council has now extended the period for consultation on the County Development Plan 2022-2028 up until midnight on Thursday 2nd July, 2020. This is to facilitate engagement by members of the public and to allow for the holding of Public Consultation Events (details of which will be finalised when current restrictions on movement have been lifted). In order to stimulate debate and encourage participation in the Development Plan process a Public Consultation Document has been prepared and is available Online at www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County- Development-Plan-2022-2028. The Consultation Document is accompanied by a series of Background Documents on key topics which highlight the main issues to be considered as part of the Plan review. These documents can be downloaded from www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. The new plan will be different from previous County Development Plans in two key areas. Firstly, it will relate to the new administrative boundary of the county following the extension to the City Council boundary, and secondly, it will include all the settlements of the County, replacing the current 8 Municipal District Local Area Plans adopted in 2017 and the Town Development Plans for the nine former Town Council Towns. The current County Development Plan 2014 as varied can be viewed at County Development Plan 2014. Submissions or observations regarding the review of the existing Plan(s); the preparation of a new County Development Plan and the policies and objectives which should be included in the new Plan to deliver an overall strategy supporting the proper planning and sustainable development of the area, are welcomed from members of the public, children, or groups or associations representing the interests of children and other interested parties. Such submissions can be either written or made online and for more information visit www.corkcoco.ie/en/Cork-County-Development-Plan-2022-2028. All valid submissions received by the Council will be published on the Cork County Council website within 10 working days of its receipt by the Council.

*Added on 16/05/20* National Famine Commemoration 2020 The ceremony will take place at the Edward Delaney Famine Sculpture in St Stephen’s Green Dublin 2 at 12.30pm on Sunday 17th May and will include military honours and a wreath laying ceremony in remembrance of all those who suffered or perished during the Famine. Wreaths will be laid by Minister Madigan on behalf of the Irish people and by the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps on behalf of the Diplomatic Community. As with the recent Easter and Arbour Hill Commemorations, the ceremony will be conducted in line with current health and safety guidelines and will not be open to the public. As in previous years, coverage of the Famine Commemoration will be available to view live nationally and internationally on RTÉ News Now, on www.rte.ie and on the RTÉ Player. The National Famine Commemoration which had been scheduled to take place in Buncrana, Co. Donegal in May of this year will now be held in 2021. Speaking of the propose event Minister Josepha Madigan said: “This year the National Famine Commemoration was to have been held in Buncrana, Co. Donegal. However, due to the circumstances in which we find ourselves these plans, like so many others, have had to be put on hold for now. I look forward to Buncrana hosting the Commemoration next year. As we confront a pandemic today, let us recall that the Great Famine was a public health emergency in its own right. We think of the many heroes of the Famine years. People such as the doctors and nurses of the fever hospitals of who put themselves at risk to care for others will always have our thanks for their sacrifice. As our society has changed and evolved this commitment to helping others has never waivered and we see the same qualities of courage and commitment to others in our healthcare staff today.”

*Added on 18/05/20* #LoveNature - Call for Public to Engage in Online Activities and Resources to Mark National Biodiversity Week 2020

The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan TD, launches #LoveNature – an online initiative to mark National Biodiversity Week which was to take place from today until Friday, 22May 2020. Due to current restrictions in place across the country to combat the spread of Covid19, the Department has had to postpone scheduled events. However, the #LoveNature campaign aims to mark the week by raising awareness of Ireland’s biodiversity and nature conservation by promoting public engagement through digital resources and content. Using the hashtag #LoveNature, the online initiative will bring together experts in the field in the one place, including a series of practical advice for families and farmers to aid crucial pollination in their own gardens or on their land on Monday, 18 May, which is also ‘World Bee Day’. The public is invited to share their knowledge and love of nature and biodiversity through posting online using the hashtag #LoveNature. Minister Madigan said “my Department, through the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Heritage Council, and many others dedicated to biodiversity throughout Ireland, has created a bank of knowledge on our country’s biodiversity which will be highlighted throughout the week. I would invite everyone during what would have been an active National Biodiversity Week to take an active interest in nature and to share in this knowledge online - to tell us what nature means to them through art, photography or creativity of any kind.” She added that “nature is thriving now and can be enjoyed by many within the current 5K exercise limit. Physical events, regrettably, cannot take place this year, but families across the country are re- discovering nature throughout these difficult times, and I would like them to think about playing their part for nature in a fun but safe way. Small steps at home can create a place for nature,” the Minister said. “Practical advice, from helping pollinating bees to understanding the wealth of wildlife in Ireland, can focus our minds on why biodiversity is so crucial.” After a week of know-how and fun facts from #LoveNature at national level, the focus will turn to local initiatives led by our partners and stakeholders national and local from Friday, 22nd May. The biodiversity message will be kept alive through promotions by the Heritage Council, Local Authority Heritage Officer Network and Local Authority Biodiversity Officers, as well as initiatives from the Irish Environmental Network (IEN). Allied with ongoing projects from the Department’s National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), and the Notice Nature social media platforms (see links below), biodiversity will be sharply in focus right up to 29th May. Minister Madigan concluded: “Biodiversity isn’t about one week, it’s an ongoing mission to educate and inspire. Later in the year, the Department and agencies will turn their focus to another major event, European Green Week, as summer turns to autumn, all as part of our continuing efforts to highlight, celebrate and protect nature.” LoveNature campaign is very much a two-way initiative: members of the public are being asked to post their nature drawings, photographs, paintings, poems to [email protected] to be included in a video highlighting the nation’s love of our natural heritage. The video will be released to coincide with the highlight of the week’s calendar: UN International Day for Biological Diversity on Friday, 22nd May. For those with a further interest in Biodiversity, it should be noted that the National Biodiversity Data Centre is a hive of information on Irish biodiversity and will participate in #lovenature along with its year-round commitment to educating about nature https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/. The Irish Environmental Network will keep the #lovenature spirit in the public’s minds with a series of initiatives from 22nd May; see https://ien.ie/ for more information.

*Added on 29/05/20* €15 Million announced nationally for Economic Recovery in Ireland's Rural Towns and Villages Mr TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development has announced details of a €15 million allocation for the Town & Village Renewal Scheme for 2020. The Town & Village Renewal Scheme provides funding for projects that support our rural towns and villages to be more attractive and sustainable. This year’s scheme will, in particular, support projects that aid the economic and social recovery of towns and villages in response to COVID-19. Announcing the funding, Minister Ring said: “I am pleased to announce the launch of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme for 2020 with funding of €15 million. The impact of the Town and Village Scheme can be seen in every corner of Ireland, with over 800 projects approved for funding of almost €68 million since 2016. Towns and villages are at the heart of economic activity in rural areas and they are also key hubs of social interaction. As the COVID-19 restrictions are eased in line with the Government’s Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business, our rural towns and villages will have an important role to play in supporting economic activity and in providing safe spaces for people to meet. This year’s Town and Village Renewal Scheme has therefore been developed to help our towns and villages to bounce back from the impact of COVID-19”. The Minister continued: “As has been the case previously, the scheme will provide funding of up to €200,000 for a broad range of strategic proposals to support our towns and villages. This year, these strategic interventions will place a particular emphasis on the economic and social recovery of our towns and villages. This might include public realm projects to make our towns and villages more accessible in the context of COVID-19 public health requirements, or supports for projects with a direct economic component such as enterprise hubs or remote working solutions. In addition, I am introducing a new standalone Measure under the scheme that will provide accelerated support for towns and villages to adapt to public health requirements such as social distancing in the short term, and to encourage increased footfall in our towns and villages as we re-open society and business.” On the new accelerated Measure, Minister Ring said: “This new Measure will include a simplified application and approval process to enable smaller projects which are part of a response to COVID-19 to be approved and delivered quickly. The Measure will provide funding of up to €25,000 per project, increasing to €40,000 for higher impact projects. While the Measure will be delivered through Local Authorities, I will expect the project proposals to be developed in conjunction with local business and community groups in each town and village’. The type of initiatives which could be supported include projects which temporarily repurpose or pedestrianise public areas to facilitate street trading; the development of an online platform to promote all of the retailers in a particular town or village; small scale events that attract people back into town centres in a safe way; or minor public realm works that make our towns safer and more attractive. The Town & Village Renewal Scheme provides funding for projects that make our towns and villages more attractive and sustainable. The Scheme has previously invested in public-realm projects and the enhancement of town centre amenities, interventions to encourage town centre living and projects that support the economic development of our towns and villages. Applications under the Scheme are submitted to the Department of Rural & Community Development through the Local Authorities. Full details of the 2020 Town & Village Scheme are available at https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/01125e-town-and- village-renewal-scheme/.

*Added on 29/05/20* May 2020 Water News - Catchments Newsletter The May Catchments Newsletter is now out and contains much information on Irish waters including details on competitions and citizen science projects including an online training video to help you learn how to spot and record Dragonflies and Damselflies, which can be an indicator of good water quality. It also includes details of the recently published EPA Bathing Water Quality report for Ireland and details of public consultation where you can have your say on the Significant Water Management Issues in Ireland. See www.catchments.ie for more information.

*Added on 29/05/20* Creative Europe Showcase Webinar on Thursday 11th June Creative Europe Desk Ireland will showcase some of the most exciting and innovative Co-operation Projects which have been successful in the Creative Europe Culture sub-progamme 2014-2019. Some major European collaborative projects have had Irish organisations at the heart of them and have been successful in reaching new audiences both in Ireland and across Europe. VIBE and EUCIDA are two of these projects. Senior Curator, Chris Clarke, from the Glucksman Gallery, will talk us through how Voyage Inside a Blind Experience (VIBE) was developed for audiences and how Irish artists were involved. VIBE is a touring exhibition that can be enjoyed by a visually impaired public with works by the renowned artists Anni and Josef Albers that include tactile models, darkroom installations, interactive displays and educational programme. Director of Rua Red Arts Centre, Maoliosa Boyle will present the project European Connections in Digital Arts (EUCIDA) and elaborate on the connections they made across Europe. EUCIDA is an interactive and innovative community of digital artists and cultural workers working transnationally across Europe. Hearing from project participants will lead to a greater understanding of what Europe is hoping to achieve with its funding and explore the potential benefits to organisations, audiences and the wider sector both here in Ireland and across Europe. The Creative Europe Culture Desk will present on current and future funding opportunities for artists and organisations, and will talk though tips for developing partnerships and preparing proposals for the next Creative Europe Programme which is due to be launched in early 2021. Please register here for the Webinar event and for any queries contact Katie or Aoife on [email protected].

*Added on 29/05/20* Cork County Council Local Studies Library Covid019 Archive

The Cork Local Studies Library is compiling an archive of material related to the Covid-19 pandemic. We are interested in how this has impacted on the lives of ordinary people throughout the county. Perhaps somebody in your group is keeping a journal of reflections on this unique event or they might be contextualising it in terms of other pandemics that had an impact in your locality, e.g. the Spanish Flu etc. We would be very interested in receiving a copy of any work based on the pandemic in order to preserve it for future historians. Submitted material may be used for promotional and public relations purposes, in print and digital media form. Send your photos, reflections, stories and poems to [email protected].

*Added on 30/05/20* Cruinniú na nÓg, part of the National Creative Ireland Programme, takes place on Saturday 13th June 2020

The Creative Ireland Programme, which was announced in December 2016, has already met with great support and enthusiasm right throughout the Country and in particular here in the County of Cork; with one of the key aspects of same being a national day of cultural engagement for young people - aptly called Cruinniú na nÓg. Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 takes place on Saturday 13th June 2020, and while certainly not the day that had been envisaged a few months back prior to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government, Local Authorities and organisations throughout Ireland have pulled out all the stops to make it a very special day. Nationally, as part of Cruinniú na nÓg there are also many opportunities for young people to engage in culture and creativity on the day, from Céile in the Kitchen (a collective call to action for young people to hold a Céilí in their Kitchen at home) to ‘Becoming a Story Keeper’ and indeed even ‘Creating a Video Game App’. Details of these and many more creative opportunities for young people are available to see on www.creativeireland.gov.ie and speaking of the day, Josepha Madigan TD, Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht noted: “Creativity and culture are powerful means through which children and young people can explore communication and collaboration, stimulate their imaginations to be inventive and harness their innate curiosity. Creativity also helps to encourage social responsibility and personal qualities related to wellbeing such as resilience, empathy, and a capacity for connection and friendship. Over the past 2 years Cruinniú na nÓg has been a key point in the calendar for children and young people to try something creative, develop an appetite for discovery and acquire new skills – and 2020 will be no different.” Here in the County of Cork, with thanks to Cork County Council’s Culture Team and the Library and Arts Service in particular, there will be a whole range of online activities that young people can avail of on the day. Culture and Creativity comes in many different shapes and forms and with this in mind, Cork County Council, with the support of a number of creative professionals, have devised a number of different workshops and tutorials that will go live on 13th June 2020, sure to encourage young people to take note of the importance of immersing oneself in true creativity. From Youthful Mindfulness with Niamh Geoghegan and Storytelling with Paddy O’Brien to a Poetry Competition with Matthew Geden and making a Stop Motion Animation piece with Jane Lee, there really is so much to choose from. The productions being undertaken by Cork County Council for the day cater for young people of all ages (and perhaps a few of us older people might get involved too!). From ‘Dream a Little Dream’ with artist Avril O’Brien and ‘How to Make your own Personal Den’ with Julie O’Hea, there is so much to inspire and invigorate. People will also have the opportunity to get involved in a Lego ‘STEAMathon’ and find ways of making musical instruments from everyday household objects with Ruti Lachs and, for those with a love of literature and art, opportunities will be showcased on the day for making characters from one’s favourite stories; designing a cover for one’s favourite book and digital art through the medium of sketchbook is also proposed – these with thanks to Fiona Boniwell. The West Cork Arts Centre, supported by Cork County Council through the Creative Ireland Programme, is also hosting a number of different events for the day, again all geared towards young people. On the day young people will have the opportunity to partake in the Quarantíní Choir or become a Young Blogger – certainly a lot to write about these days due to Covid-19. Details of the events at Uilinn West Cork Arts Centre can be found on https://www.westcorkartscentre.com/uillinn-connect. Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 is a collaboration between the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, the Creative Ireland Programme, Local Authorities and RTÉ, and is part of the Government’s #InThisTogether campaign which is supporting everyone to stay connected, stay active and look after our physical and mental wellbeing. To see all that is happening in Ireland, with close to 400 events already announced, visit the National Creative Ireland Website. For those living in the County of Cork there is a great range of activities in store, details of which are on the national website and on Cork County Council’s YouTube page. For more information, email [email protected] or phone 021 4285905.

*Added on 04/06/20* People for Bees: Online Community Group Workshops in Helping Bees in Your Community

This summer Cork County Council are providing online community group training workshops in bee conservation, as part of the Irish Wildlife Trust Project People for Bees. The training will cover topics such as bee habitat creation and bumblebee monitoring and identification. These workshops are open to community groups located in Cork County Council Administrative Area. Workshops are free of charge and will be delivered directly to community groups via online video call. If your community group is interested, please send an expression of interest stating the name and location of your community group to [email protected]. These training events are free of charge thanks to support from Cork County Council through its Environment Directorate.

*Added on 04/06/20* National Heritage Week 2020

In light of the restrictions on social gatherings due to COVID-19, we know that many of you have been wondering if National Heritage Week will be going ahead this year. We are delighted to announce that it is, albeit in a different format to previous years. Since the emergence of the crisis, the Heritage Council has been examining how to deliver Heritage Week in a way that does not compromise public health. As restrictions are likely to still be in place in August, Heritage Week will not focus on the delivery of events this year. Instead, we are inviting you to undertake projects that will culminate during Heritage Week. As such, you are invited to consider exploring a topic – with your family, your community, or your organisation – that is associated with this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’. Projects can comprise researching an aspect of heritage on your doorstep, sharing or re-learning a skill from our heritage, or exploring an aspect of Ireland’s educational heritage. The results of your projects should be presented in a format that can be shared widely, for example through a video; podcast or oral history recording; a PowerPoint presentation or blog; through your community’s or organisation’s newsletter; via an online talk, workshop, demonstration or exhibition; or via an interview with your local radio station or newspaper. A newly opened – and moderated – social media account could also be used to tell others about your project. We encourage heritage newcomers, who have recently become curious about aspects of our heritage, previous Heritage Week event organisers, and those with a track record in championing aspects of our heritage to participate in Heritage Week 2020. Projects can involve developing something new, or revisiting a heritage project or research into an aspect of our heritage that you have already worked on. For now, we invite you to: · Think about a project that is linked to this year’s theme, and that you, your family, community or organisation can develop or revisit for Heritage Week. · Consider how you can engage with the community around you in building your project, and how to involve people across different generations. · Mark Heritage Week in your diary: it takes place from 15th – 23rd August and is the time when projects from around the country will be shared on the Heritage Week website. We will launch a national call for Heritage Week projects later this month, and registration for project ideas will open on the Heritage Week website then. Once you have registered your idea, you can move on to develop your project and to share your outcome with us in time for Heritage Week. We are building a new website to take account of the changes to Heritage Week this year and this will go live very soon. In the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing ideas on projects you might consider exploring for Heritage Week 2020, as well as further information on how you might construct your project; on the terms and conditions you must comply with; and what resources will be available to you to help support the development of your project. National Heritage Week is coordinated by the Heritage Council as part of European Heritage Days, and is supported by the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht and Fáilte Ireland.

*Added on 05/06/20* Cruinniú na nÓg and the Irish Georgian Society The Irish Georgian Society with Creative Ireland will be running four free online workshops and a lecture for children on Saturday 13th as part of Cruinniú na nÓg. The workshops are on stonework, joinery, gilding and stained glass and the lecture is on Georgian architecture. The links and details for registration are below. https://cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie/event/irish-georgian-society-series/

*Added on 05/06/20* European Commission's Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 The European Commission has adopted the new EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 and an associated Action Plan (annex) – a comprehensive, ambitious, long-term plan for protecting nature and reversing the degradation of ecosystems. It aims to put Europe’s biodiversity on a path to recovery by 2030 with benefits for people, the climate and the planet. It is also the proposal for the EU contribution to the upcoming international negotiations on the global post-2020 biodiversity framework. In the post-COVID context, the Biodiversity Strategy aims to build our societies’ resilience to future threats such as climate change impacts, forest fires, food insecurity or disease outbreaks, including by protecting wildlife and fighting illegal wildlife trade. A core part of the European Green Deal, the Biodiversity Strategy will also support a green recovery following the pandemic. Main elements of the Strategy for 2030 The Strategy contains specific commitments and actions to be delivered by 2030, including: • Establishing a larger EU-wide network of protected areas on land and at sea, building upon existing Natura 2000 areas, with strict protection for areas of very high biodiversity and climate value. • An EU Nature Restoration Plan – a series of concrete commitments and actions to restore degraded ecosystems across the EU by 2030, and manage them sustainably, addressing the key drivers of biodiversity loss. • A set of measures to enable the necessary transformative change: setting in motion a new, strengthened governance framework to ensure better implementation and track progress, improving knowledge, financing and investments and better respecting nature in public and business decision- making. • Measures to tackle the global biodiversity challenge, demonstrating that the EU is ready to lead by example towards the successful adoption of an ambitious global biodiversity framework under the Convention on Biological Diversity. For more information visit the website to see the document by clicking here

*Added on 09/06/20* Young People Encouraged to get Creative for an Online Cruinniú na nÓg 2020

Saturday 13th June 2020 marks Cruinniú na nÓg 2020, Ireland’s national day of free creative activities for children and young people under the age of 18, and Josepha Madigan T.D., Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, has encouraged young people all over Ireland to get online, get involved and get creative for Cruinniú. Minister Madigan said: “The global COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant and varied challenges to us all – not least in the area of providing direct services and activities for our citizens. Innovation and creativity have been required to address these challenges, and this has again shone a spotlight on the importance of supporting our youngest citizens to experience creative activities – to try something new, to uncover hidden talents or to hone their creative instincts. As such, on Saturday 13th June next, we will again celebrate Cruinniú na nÓg for which we have developed a number of creative, cultural and engaging activities which children, young people – indeed entire families – can create in their own homes and gardens between now and Saturday 13th June.” To date over 460 events have been confirmed, with full details available at https://cruinniu.creativeireland.gov.ie/. These range from nationwide calls to action such as Céilí in the Kitchen and Let’s Go Fly A Kite, to gentle poetry events for the under 4s with the Branar Theatre Company. There are plenty of activities planned that children and young people might need to practice now or create in advance, or on the day itself there will be a huge array of different activities to enjoy, from workshops and tutorials to recitals and readings, and everything in between. In the County of Cork there will be much happening with details available on https://www.corkcoco.ie/en/arts-heritage-irish- language/creative-ireland. Also featuring will be We Create Magic – a bespoke visual rap by Cappabue National School and GMC Beats, which will be shown on RTÉ2 on Saturday 13th June. Speaking of Cruinniú na nÓg Minister Madigan added: “Only a few short weeks ago I announced that Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 would go ahead, and since then we have received a wonderful response from children – and families – all over Ireland to our “Calls to Action”. But none of this would be possible without the extraordinary response from our Culture Team partners in each of the 31 local authorities, as well as the various local arts, culture, heritage and community groups and organisations, local artists, craft workers and creative that have risen to the challenge of making meaningful opportunities for children and young people to be creative on the 13th June.” Minister Madigan also thanked RTÉ for its increased role in supporting and hosting Cruinniú na nÓg 2020 events and activities. Dee Forbes, Director General of RTE said: “RTÉ is delighted to once again play an important role in supporting the Cruinniú na nÓg programme. While RTÉ has been involved in Cruinniú from the outset, this year’s programme, in the midst of a global pandemic, is perhaps the most important – and challenging - to date. As we’ve seen on a daily basis over these past months, creativity offers a way for our young people to stay positive, to explore this new world we are sharing and to express themselves. So, it is fitting that, through the programme of content we have put together for Cruinniú na nÓg across television, radio and online, RTÉ continues to support and encourage creativity in our youngest citizens, this year in their homes and gardens, while staying safe. Good luck to all involved.”

*Added on 09/06/20* Registration of Events for Culture Night 2020 Cork County Council Arts Service warmly invites groups and organisations to consider submitting a proposal for this year's Culture Night. In these ever-changing times we live in, Culture Night 2020 will be based on the theme of 'Culture Night Re-imagined'. The Covid19 situation has delayed confirmation of the event going ahead and consequently this means the Arts Service is now working to a slightly tighter time schedule. Nevertheless, it is hoped that as many artists and arts organisations as possible will consider taking part. The need to adhere to social distancing requirements means that public events will literally have to be re-imagined. This does not mean that events cannot go ahead, but they must be organised in accordance with the Covid19 safety regulations as set out by government. An alternative route to participating is to organise a virtual online event that is accessible on the night. This can be done as an actual live event or may be pre-recorded and issued as a live event over the course of the evening. For those looking get involved on the night one can access the event form by clicking here and for any queries contact [email protected] or phone the Arts Office on 021 4346210.

*Added on 10/06/20* Over €4.3m Awarded across the country under the 2020 Historic Structures Fund and Built Heritage Investment Scheme The Minister for Culture, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, TD, has announced that 449 heritage projects across every county in the country will benefit from a combined sum of over €4.3m under this year’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS). This funding will support the owners and custodians of historic and protected structures as they carry out hundreds of small- scale, labour-intensive projects to repair and safeguard our built heritage. “These schemes,” the Minister said, “are being released as we move through phase 2 of reopening our economy. I believe that they have the potential to provide some much-needed economic stimulus right across the country in all local authority areas and will provide employment for the many small businesses, skilled conservation specialists and tradespeople involved in heritage-related construction activity”. “These schemes will play an essential role in helping communities to regenerate the areas where they live and work, and, indeed, to protect our built heritage as part of our generation’s legacy for the future.” Under this year’s Historic Structures Fund (HSF), 56 projects will be funded, with grants ranging from €15,000 to €130,000 for the conservation and renovation of many different types of historic structures throughout the country. In the County of Cork four excellent projects are being supported to the sum of €171,000, which are Egmont Hall in ; Church of the Ascension in Timoleague; Myrtle Grove in Youghal and St. George’s Arts and Heritage Centre in Mitchelstown (funding for St. George’s is being provided over 2 years). Nationally, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) will support 393 projects in 31 local authority areas. Grants ranging from €1,000 to €15,000 will be provided and the scheme will generate several thousand days’ employment for skilled craftspeople. In the case of County Cork, ten projects will see investment under the scheme to the sum of €79,000, with some of the examples including the former Christ Church in ; St John the Baptist Church in Midleton; Glenville Park House and Charleville Community Hall. Also included under the BHIS 2020 is a pilot micro-grant stream to increase the resilience of historic structures to withstand the constant effects of climate change. This will allow local authorities to make smaller awards to owners of historic properties to carry out routine maintenance to offset the impact of climate change on their buildings. These grant schemes have the potential to offer confidence to communities across the country, provide a stimulus to the economy and help to maintain incomes and in the case of County Cork, the combined investment across both schemes of €250,000 is fantastic news. Speaking of both schemes, Minister Madigan noted: “I would like to thank the local authorities for their assistance in administering these schemes. I would also like to acknowledge the response of private owners and their willingness to invest their time and money in caring for our built heritage. I am delighted to be able to continue investing in our built heritage.”

*Added on 10/06/20* Cork Cultural Companions Cork Cultural Companions creates local networks of like-minded people interested in arts, heritage and culture who can accompany each other to events. It operates by bringing together like-minded people that meet up regularly to go out either with one other person or as part of a small group. The aim is to provide increased opportunities for older people to engage with Ireland’s vibrant cultural and arts scene and it is supported in Cork by Muintir na Tíre; the HSE; Cork County Council and Cork City Council. ‘OK so we can’t meet up to attend events at the moment and even if we could there are no events to attend. But, let us not allow that stop us! There are more resources, for all things cultural, than ever before available online and we want to share them with you. When you sign up as a member you will be added to our database and will then receive regular updates regarding various websites, podcasts and social media links to theatre performances, music, literature, dance, local interest items and a whole range of other things too. And, when we are free to move about and events begin to happen again you will be right there with us to celebrate. Membership is free and with no obligation so come join us today! Members can join Cork Cultural Companions by contacting Barbara Quinn, Coordinator, by emailing [email protected] or by phoning 021 4500688 / 085-1300335

*Added on 10/06/20* 15K Free West Cork Genealogy Records Now Online

Over 15,000 previously unavailable genealogy records relating to the greater West Cork area are now online to view free of charge. Skibbereen Heritage Centre has been digitising burial registers for a number of graveyards in West Cork for some time and the results of this work are now available on its website. These new records are in addition to the graveyards surveys already available on its West Cork Graveyards database. "We're delighted to bring these records into the public domain", said Centre manager Terri Kearney, "and we are very grateful to Cork County Council for its support of this project". With so many people around the world confined to their homes and with time on their hands, Skibbereen Heritage Centre's genealogy service has been inundated with online queries and there will be a big interest in these records. " We also got a great response to an online short video tour of Caheragh Old Graveyard that we put up recently and we hope to extend this to other graveyards over time", said Kearney," This allows the Diaspora to connect with their ancestors' burial places but we've also had messages from local people who appreciate being able to 'virtually visit' this site that means so much to them."

While Skibbereen Heritage Centre is currently closed, its staff are working hard to digitise even more records which will be added to its website over time as well as creating new graveyard videos and a 'virtual historic tour' of Skibbereen town. The West Cork Graveyards database is on Skibbereen Heritage Centre's website www.skibbheritage.com with a full list of the new graveyards covered as well as a tutorial video on how to use the database.

*Added on 11/06/20* Irish Walled Town Network June 2020 Ezine The June 2020 Ezine of the Irish Walled Towns Network has just been uploaded, containing loads of information on the new IWTN website; the IWTN Action Plan, the IWTN Children's Workbook and much more. The Ezine can be viewed by clicking here

*Added on 11/06/20* Day of the Straws Artist Marie Brett is developing the project ‘Day of the Straws’, which examines how social history surrounding the 1832 Cholera epidemic relates to modern-day Covid-19. ‘Day of the Straws’ explores events that, while distant in time, seem to share similar features, including supernatural phenomena and fake news. The project is created in collaboration with writer Katie Holly and made in dialogue with community historians, healers, fortune tellers and other interested people. The resulting work includes film, text, sound and image. The project, in all or some of its forms, is presented online via Cork Midsummer Festival and at Sirius Arts Centre throughout 2020. The Day of the Straws were a series of events that took place during Ireland’s 1830’s Cholera epidemic between 9 and 15 June 1832. These events involved folk cure, protective charms and social ritual that spread throughout the island starting in Charleville, County Cork. The earliest report of the mass hysteria which was sent to Dublin Castle came from Major General G H Barry, Ballyclough House, County Cork. He stated that the Virgin Mary appeared in Charleville church, leaving certain ashes, which she warned were the only protection against Cholera. These were to be delivered to four houses, and then these four householders were to proceed to four more homes, and so on, to spread the message. By the following Tuesday evening, the messengers had reached the borders of Ulster. The message changed on its northerly progression: ashes, turf and stones were used in the east, while straws were used further west. Participation Get involved with ‘Day of the Straws’: the team behind the project is seeking video clips, photos, poems, stories and songs that link to the project's themes. Get in touch with [email protected] to share any thoughts or items. Presentation Cork Midsummer Festival, from 21 June: piece available to experience through the website and social media channels; Sirius Arts Centre, Culture Night, 18 September and Samhain, 31 October. ‘Day of the Straws’ is commissioned by Cork Midsummer Festival, in partnership with Sirius Arts Centre. ‘Day of the Straws’ is part of BE PART, a project supported by Creative Europe, and is also funded by Cork County Council and The Arts Council.

*Added on 11/06/20* Cork Nature Network Musical Fundraiser for the #GiveNatureAChance Campaign June 25th Cork Nature Network is a charity working to protect and promote Ireland’s Wildlife through education, conservation, and research, to restore a healthy ecosystem for all species and peoples of Ireland. Cork Nature Networks run projects, including Local Biodiversity Action Plans, Beaumont Quarry nature reserve, Cork Otters and Green Spaces in the city alongside other surveys and research into wildlife protection. To build awareness of the need for conservation, we offer public events such as walks, seminars and talks. We have a number of informative online webinars coming up over the summer months and for Heritage Week 2020 - see www.corknaturenetwork.ie for more details. Our next event is a fundraiser concert on Thursday June 25th 7pm where a number of fantastic musicians from Cork and further afield will play live mini -gigs on our facebook page @corknaturenetwork.

*Added on 15/06/20* Independence Museum Kilmurry Opening Times Independence Museum Kilmurry will be reopening on Thursday 02nd July 2020. Opening times are 2pm- 5pm Thursday - Sunday. Opening at other times/days by request or prior notice (contact 021 7336932). As well as permanent exhibitions in place, 'The Atlas of the Irish Revolution' will also be on display. COVID 19 guidelines will be in operation.

*Added on 15/06/20* My Creative Life Podcast and Radio Series (Apple; Spotify, Google Podcasts; RTÉ Radio Player and RTÉJr)

MY CREATIVE LIFE PODCAST & RADIO SERIES is a brand new podcast and radio series celebrating creativity in young people across Ireland - from music, circus, writing, to visual art, dance and acrobatics and more. "My Creative Life is made by Grey Heron Media for Creative Ireland and RTEjr Radio. Season 1 was launched to celebrate Cruinniú na nÓg - Ireland's national day of free creativity for children and young people on June 13th 2020 – and has been created from scratch under lockdown in a remarkable remote collaboration between the young people who feature and the team at Grey Heron Media. Episodes 1 to 7 of the Podcast are now all available to listen to on the RTÉ Radio Player - https://www.rte.ie/radio/radioplayer/html5/#/podcasts/series/32225 and the episode for the County of Cork, which has been supported by Cork County Council through the Creative Ireland Programme., will feature later in the summer (July/August) with full details to be provided shortly.

*Added on 17/06/20* The Response to Covid-19 in the County of Cork Cork County Council’s Covid 19 Community Response Programme has continually highlighted a host of voluntary, community and statutory groups who have come to the fore in supporting the most vulnerable. The Council wants to share these acts of kindness, tales of community solidarity and remarkable individuals, in order to convey the many positive things happening throughout the county during these unique and challenging times. Two new service additions to the Council’s online customer service portal ‘Your Council’ have been designed to allow members of the public to do just that. Send a Thank You: Cork County Council wants to encourage people to share positive messages with each other. The “Send a Thank You” service allows anyone to quickly create a personalised Thank You message that can then be emailed to someone who has helped them during the COVID-19 emergency. Simply type a message, upload a photo, create and send a Thank You. Visit https://www.yourcouncil.ie/service/Send_a_Thank_You Feel Good Community Stories: Cork County Council would like to hear about the good things that are happening in your community. We want to share these stories with the people of the county. Do you have good news to share? We want to hear it. Fill out the simple online form and we will select community stories to share on our social media platforms. To submit your story, visit https://www.yourcouncil.ie/service/Feel_Good_Community_Stories Please share this information across your networks and tell your local communities.

*Added on 17/06/20* €25M extra Covid-19 Support for Arts and Culture An Taoiseach, and Minister for Culture, Heritage & the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan have announced €25 million in extra supports to help the Arts and Culture sector recover from the Covid19 Emergency. The funding will include bursaries and commissions to artists and arts organisations, and resources for museums and culture workers as they prepare for the re-opening of society. This is brand new funding, coming on top of funding previously allocated to the sector. A total of €20 million will be allocated to the Arts Council bringing its allocation this year to €100 million. A further €5 million will be available for other measures, including securing the future of key cultural and museum spaces and facilities throughout Ireland, and the production of high-quality digital art and on-line performances. Speaking at the announcement, An Taoiseach said: “Over the last few months we have had many days of sorrow and suffering. In times like this we see the true value of culture to society – the books, the films, the songs, the plays – all the different forms of culture that entertain as well as enlighten. The pandemic hasn’t been easy for our artists and cultural institutions, and I know their livelihoods have been hit hard. So many events have been cancelled, so many places have been forced to close. The Government wants to recognise how important culture is to our lives and it wants to match its words with actions’. Also speaking at the announcement, Minister Josepha Madigan TD said: “I am delighted to be able to announce this further investment in arts and culture. This sector has suffered more than most in the crisis and will continue to experience difficult and challenging times long after other sectors have returned to work. Despite this, I am confident that artists and arts organisations across the country can weather this storm and emerge with all the wonderful creativity that is its hallmark.” Among the measures that will be introduced will be new bursaries and commissions from the Arts Council, including supports for freelance artists and those looking to develop projects on a collaborative basis’. The Department will provide supports for cultural centres including local and regional museums, as well as for new online cultural and creative content to build on the success of programmes such as Ireland Performs, the Other Voices Courage programme and Cruinniú na nÓg. The Department is also working closely with the National Cultural Institutions to address issues arising from the crisis. The Department of an Taoiseach and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht will also convene a meeting of relevant representatives from the public and private sector to discuss how to protect and sustain the arts and culture sector through the Covid19 recovery and beyond, recognising that the issues faced by venues as well as artists in an era where mass gatherings are restricted, are unique and will be problematic for quite some time. “My Department has been engaged in extensive consultation with cultural bodies, the Arts Council, arts organisations and individual artists and arts practices since the commencement of the COVID-19 crisis. I am very aware of the challenges that artists have faced and also of the hugely important role that they have played in sustaining all of us in recent months. Many challenges lie ahead but the Government is determined to ensure that we have a vibrant arts and culture sector into the future. That is why we are making this announcement today” said Minister Madigan.

*Added on 17/06/20* Heritage Council Calls for Project Ideas for National Heritage Week 2020

Rather than focusing on the organisation of in-person public events, local heritage groups and organisers, families and communities are being invited to develop projects around this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’. Coordinated by the Heritage Council since 2005, National Heritage Week has become one of Ireland’s largest cultural events, and will run this year from Saturday, 15th – Sunday, 23rd August. The new approach is designed to promote the sharing of experience and knowledge. Expressions of interest and project ideas should be submitted to www.heritageweek.ie, and be carried out throughout June and July. Projects should be completed in time for National Heritage Week when they will be showcased. Accepted formats for showcasing may vary from online talks or exhibitions, to a video, podcast, slideshow presentation or blog, to media coverage, a dedicated website or moderated social media account, or by means of small, restricted social gatherings, which comply with official public health advice. All projects submitted will be considered for a Heritage Week Award. Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, TD, said: “My Department and I are delighted to support this year’s alternative version of National Heritage Week, which is always highly anticipated for its showcase of Ireland’s diverse heritage. This year, I hope that the community groups and heritage organisations – who are the backbone of National Heritage Week – get involved, as well as those who are new to Ireland’s varied heritage. The project dimension of this year’s National Heritage Week provides an opportunity to connect and reconnect with community and family – by phone, letters, emails or in other social-distanced ways, and particularly across generations – while working towards a worthwhile end. We are particularly keen to see projects being developed that have strong inter-generational participation: perhaps, where an older person teaches a child skills from their childhood. Younger people, particularly teens and young adults, could play a big role in showcasing projects in digital formats. I wish the very best to all those individuals and organisations undertaking projects, appreciate their dedication to our heritage and look very forward to seeing their projects showcased later this summer.” To support project organisers in arriving at an aspect of heritage that they might want to explore under this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’, three broad sub-themes can be considered for projects: Heritage on your doorstep: Projects might research, and collect local knowledge about a monument or landmark; explore the origins of local customs or traditions and how these may have changed over time; examine how aspects of the local landscape, such as a canal, river or lake, have influenced a community; or capturing stories from local members of the community who have survived adversity (for example, the TB epidemic of the 1940s). Relearning skills from our heritage: Projects could explore forgotten or overlooked skills with a view to sharing them among younger generations; document crafts, skills or trades that one’s community was previously well-known for; investigate traditional remedies unique to a locality which were used to treat common aches and pains, and record the stories of individuals who remember such remedies; research traditional food preparation or preservation methods throughout the ages. The heritage of education: Projects might explore the history of an old school which has served many generations; better understand the role of a local hedge school; delve into the history of a monastic settlement; interrogate how the experience of going to school has evolved over time.

In addition to developing new research, projects could also revisit or build on a heritage project which may already have been started at an individual, family or community level. In this instance, the National Heritage Week project could involve showcasing research already done on a monument, a waterway, or a skill or tradition in the community, and finding new ways to grow awareness of it. The Heritage Council is developing a suite of resources to support projects, which will be made available on HeritageWeek.ie The Chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons, said: “This year, perhaps more than any other year, National Heritage Week offers a moment for community engagement and social cohesion. Heritage – in all its forms – helps us to connect with our past, build resilience and enhance our health and wellbeing. For this reason, the Heritage Council is ensuring that Heritage Week goes ahead and we have modified our approach to ensure active engagement with our heritage, while protecting public health. During lockdown, many people around the country – in both rural and urban environments – have developed a greater appreciation for their immediate surroundings. The restrictions have caused us to reconnect with, and reconsider what can be found in our immediate locality, from noticing birds and birdsong, and changing patterns among plants and wildlife as spring became summer, to local built heritage and monuments. Others have returned to traditional skills, be that baking, growing fruit and vegetables or handcrafts, like knitting and embroidery. “National Heritage Week, and particular this year’s theme of ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our Heritage’ offers a chance to build on this renewed interest, by exchanging skills and knowledge in a community; exploring something new or diving deeper into the story behind something you may have recently discovered; or working as a family to renew a skill. I encourage everyone with an interest, enthusiasm or expertise in any facet of our rich heritage to consider putting together and submitting a project for National Heritage Week, and sharing it with our wider national community.” Check out our blog Inspiration for your National Heritage Week project and our new website for more details. Anyone who is interested in organising a Heritage Week project can register as a project organiser on the Heritage Week website and submit their idea before delving into their research work. By registering, you will gain access to our project organisers portal, where you will find some project inspiration and other resources to help you develop your project. So get thinking – we’re really looking forward to hearing about your project plans. Register here... #MyHeritageWeek: The heritage of Heritage Week While you’re thinking about your Heritage Week 2020 project idea, take some time to reminisce on Heritage Weeks past. We are marking the 15th year of the Heritage Council coordinating National Heritage Week. To celebrate, we are asking you to share your Heritage Week memories online using the hashtag #MyHeritageWeek. Find out more… National Heritage Week is coordinated by the Heritage Council as part of European Heritage Days and is supported by Fáilte Ireland, the OPW, the Local Heritage Officer Network and groups and organisations the length and breadth of the country. A short video outlining Heritage Week 2020 has been developed and is available to view on www.YouTube.com by clicking here – “National Heritage Week 2020: What's different this year?” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CU-tdI6Db6I&feature=youtu.be

*Added on 18/06/20* Help Record Ireland's Hedgehogs NUI Galway researchers and the National Biodiversity Data Centre are collaborating on an Irish Hedgehog Survey and they are looking for your help. There are two elements to this survey. They are asking you to submit sightings of hedgehogs to a dedicated recording page on the NBDC website. The second element of the survey will take place during the summer where volunteers can conduct a survey for the presence of hedgehogs in their garden using their own camera or a footprint tunnel which they can make themselves at home. For details on this go to www.irishhedgehogsurvey.com

*Added on 18/06/20* Can Accountants Put a Value on Biodiversity? What do accountants and biodiversity have in common? Here’s a short helpful film which explains how we can “account” for biodiversity. Produced by the Irish Forum on Natural Capital and funded by the EPA. https://youtu.be/ykzFmT4rhmM

*Added on 20/06/20* Europa Nostra 2021 Awards

The European Heritage Awards/Europa Nostra Awards scheme was launched in 2002 by the European Commission and is supported by the Creative Europe Programme. These annual Awards seek to identify and promote best practices in the conservation of tangible and intangible cultural heritage, to stimulate the trans-frontier exchange of knowledge and experience throughout Europe, to enhance public awareness and appreciation of Europe’s cultural heritage, and to encourage further excellent initiatives through the power of example. Outstanding heritage achievements are awarded in the following categories: Conservation Outstanding achievements in the conservation, enhancement and adaptation to new uses of cultural heritage. Research Outstanding research, digitisation and knowledge transfer projects which lead to tangible effects for the safeguard and enhancement of cultural heritage in Europe. Dedicated Service to Heritage Open to individuals or organisations whose commitment over a long period of time (minimum 10 years) demonstrates a high degree of dedication and civic engagement coupled with excellence in the safeguard and enhancement of cultural heritage in Europe, which exceeds normal expectations in the given context. Education, Training and Awareness-raising Outstanding initiatives related to education, training and awareness raising related to cultural heritage with the aim of fostering capacity-building and local support, building a sense of place and identity and stimulating citizens’ engagement and ownership. The European Heritage Awards/Europa Nostra Awards will honour up to 30 outstanding heritage achievements from all parts of Europe every year. Up to four winners will also receive a Grand Prix with a monetary award of 10,000 Euro. One winner will also receive the Public Choice Award following an online vote conducted via the Europa Nostra website. The closing date for the sending of entries is the 1st October 2020. For more information, contact the Heritage Awards Coordinator, Elena Bianchi, at [email protected]. You can download an entry form from www.europeanherigagewards.eu/apply.

*Added on 20/06/20* Create and Sirius Arts Centre Artist Residency Award Create and Sirius Arts Centre invite expressions of interest from artists from a minority ethnic background, and more broadly from a migrant background, based in Ireland, for a residency award. This award supports practitioners working across all artforms – visual, performing, live, film, sound, vocal, written, born-digital and beyond – to develop and/or consolidate their socially engaged arts practice. It offers opportunities for research, exchange, networking and learning, fostering dialogue and experimentation, with additional curatorial advice from Sirius Arts Centre. The residency takes place across both Sirius Arts Centre in Cobh, Co. Cork, and The Guesthouse Project in Cork city. It runs for four weeks, between 2 and 27 September 2020. It provides accommodation, a stipend and agreed expenses related to travel and subsistence. This residency award is funded through the Arts Council of Ireland’s Artist in the Community Scheme, which is managed by Create, and is organised through a partnership between Create and Sirius Arts Centre. Expressions of Interest are due by the 20th July 2020. To apply, follow the link Guidelines for Create/Sirius Arts Centre Artist Residency Awards 2020.

*Added on 20/06/20* European Natura 2000 Award The European Commission is proud to announce the 27 finalists for the 2020 European Natura 2000 Award. You can discover the finalists on the Award website. The 79 applications received for this edition of the Award have been through a gruelling evaluation to select the 27 finalists. Reaching the shortlist is therefore a significant result in itself and there are three Irish projects that made the shortlist: The Living Bog Life Project; the Aran Islands EIP & The Rock-a-bill Tern Conservation Project. The finalist applications highlight the many different achievements of those involved in Natura 2000. They include applications from 14 EU Member States and the United Kingdom, submitted by local and international NGOs, universities, municipalities, national administrations, businesses …. And they cover an array of issues from both marine and terrestrial Natura 2000 sites. The public vote for your favourite Natura 2000 Award finalist is also now open. You have until midnight on the 15 of September 2020 to vote for the finalist that you think deserves special recognition: the application which receives the most votes will be awarded the coveted European Citizens’ Award. The winners of the five category Awards – Conservation, Socio-Economic Benefits, Communication, Reconciling Interests/Perceptions, and Cross-Border Cooperation and Networking – and the Citizens’ Award will be announced at the Award Ceremony in Brussels, tentatively scheduled for 14 October 2020. And, in the meantime, let’s be in contact with nature this summer. Discover Natura 2000 in your country: if you can get out and about, plan a visit to a site near you – in the mountains, the coast, wetlands … Or you can discover sites locally and further afield via the Natura 2000 Award and Natura 2000 websites.

*Added on 24/06/20* Tourism Recovery Taskforce Consultation

The Tourism Recovery Taskforce (TRT) which was established by Ministers Shane Ross and Brendan Griffin on 20th May 2020, has launched a consultation process to help inform its work in drawing up a recovery plan for the tourism and hospitality industry. The consultation process is an opportunity for the Taskforce to hear directly from employers and employees across the tourism industry and submissions, by way of an online survey, are being invited up until Sunday 28th June 2020. By taking part in the survey those working in the tourism sector will have the opportunity to contribute as the Taskforce draws up its Recovery Plan. The purpose of the Taskforce is to prepare a Tourism Recovery Plan for submission to the ministers which will include a set of recommendations on how best the Irish tourism sector can adapt and recover in the changed tourism environment as a result of the Covid-19 crisis. The plan will identify priority aims, key enablers and market opportunities for the sector for the period 2020-2023. The consultation survey will be open for responses until June 28th. To find out more and take part in the consultation process Click Here

*Added on 24/06/20* National Heritage Week: Tips for Researching Your Heritage Project The Heritage Council: ‘This year’s National Heritage Week is all about projects and we are encouraging individuals and groups all around the country to get involved and create your own heritage projects. We will be here to support you every step of the way. Tips for researching your heritage project looks at elements you should consider as you plan your project and will give you some helpful tips, from how to register as a project organiser and decide on your topic, to building your team and promoting your heritage project in your community. Other useful resources are available in our Project Organisers’ Portal, which you can access once you have registered as a project organiser. Read our blog post here… Before you begin your Heritage Week project, it’s helpful to consider all of the elements of heritage and the role it plays in shaping our identity. Initiatives such as National Heritage Week are important in energising us all to better understand the heritage around us. ‘What is Heritage’ from the Heritage Council is a useful resource and may help you to shape your project. Find out more... While you’re thinking about your National Heritage Week 2020 project idea, take some time to reminisce on Heritage Weeks past. This year we are celebrating the 15th year of the Heritage Council coordinating National Heritage Week. Share your National Heritage Week memories online using the hashtag #MyHeritageWeek. We have already received some wonderful memories on social media from previous National Heritage Weeks. Find out more… This year's National Heritage Week is different, with a focus on creating heritage projects. To help you to stay up-to-date and to answer any questions you may have, we have created a ‘frequently asked questions’ blog on our new website, which we will be updating regularly. If you have a question that isn’t included here, send it to [email protected] and we will respond as soon as possible. Read the National Heritage Week FAQ here... National Heritage Week is coordinated by the Heritage Council as part of European Heritage Days’

*Added on 25/06/20* The Dangers of Gardening Pesticides/Weed Killers to Drinking Water Sources and Environmental Health While welcoming news of garden centres across the country reopening their doors, the National Federation of Group Water Schemes (NFGWS) is asking consumers to think carefully before purchasing or using environmentally-damaging pesticides/weed killers. Pointing out that access to clean treated drinking water ‘has never been more essential’, Federation CEO, Barry Deane, said that it is important that people ‘are aware of the damage that harmful chemicals, even in tiny quantities, can have on drinking water sources and on the wider aquatic environment’. ‘One drop of pesticides entering a stream or drain will cause an exceedance of the drinking water regulations along a 30km stretch of river. We have to ask ourselves do we really want to risk this?’ ‘We are encouraging gardeners to ask themselves if the spraying of harmful chemicals in their garden is really necessary and should we not be more conscious of the damage they do? We are also asking them to consult with their garden centre about alternative means of controlling unwanted vegetation and to download the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan guidance booklet for gardeners at pollinators.ie. ‘It is especially important that householders move away from having the roadside areas outside their properties sprayed with chemicals. Spraying chemicals on roads or hard verges increases the risk of chemical run off into drains, streams or rivers. ‘Besides the potential damage to human health, pesticides also have a damaging impact on our biodiversity which is already under enormous pressure from habitat loss.’

Urging its member group water schemes to access and adopt the biodiversity enhancement framework document at www.nfgws.ie/biodiversity, the NFGWS states that there is ‘growing recognition that a healthy water supply is best assured where it is abstracted from a healthy environment’: ‘Apart from its intrinsic value, there is a direct correlation between the environmental health of a source catchment and the cost of producing a potable water supply. Key measures of an environmentally healthy source catchment include the ecosystems and biodiversity that it supports. The presence or absence of these indicators is, therefore, an important element of overall water safety planning.’

*Added on 27/06/20* Independence Museum Kilmurry Re-Opens

Independence Museum Kilmurry is happy to inform that the museum is re-opening on Thursday 02nd July 2020. The Museum will have stringent cleaning protocols in place in accordance with Covid-19 restrictions & guidelines (hand sanitisers, social distancing, signage, etc.) and the health and safety of visitors, workers and volunteers is paramount. As well as the permanent exhibit space downstairs in the Museum, the ''Atlas of the Irish Revolution'' Exhibition, on loan from St. Peter's Cork, will be on display in the Heritage Room, upstairs. This exhibition will be in place throughout July. Normal opening times will resume (Thursday- Sunday, 2 - 5pm) and the Museum can open on other days by request or prior notice if required. Please contact 021 7336 932 or email [email protected] for information.

*Added on 02/07/20* The Gaeltacht, the Irish Language and Sport The Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Sport, Culture and Gaeltacht, Catherine Martin TD, has welcomed the appointment of Government Chief Whip, TD, as Minister of State for the Gaeltacht, the Irish language and Sport. Minister Martin said that the Irish language and the Gaeltacht was of huge importance to the Government and to her personally, and that she is looking forward immensely to working closely with Minister of State Calleary to progress the broad remit of the Department. She also intends to visit a Gaeltacht area with the Minister of State in the early stages of their appointment. “The newly appointed Minister of State has displayed throughout his years as Teachta Dála that he has a particular interest in the language and in the development of the Gaeltacht, and that he has a great understanding of the challenges facing Gaeltacht communities and the Irish language community on the island in general”, said Minister Martin. She added, “and as the Minister of State is also Government Chief Whip, I believe this is a great appointment that will ensure special status for the Gaeltacht and the language around the Cabinet table and which will expedite the implementation of the 20-Year Strategy for the Irish language 2010-2030 in the community and across the State sector”.

Speaking following his appointment, Minister Calleary said: “I am looking forward to taking on this role. The Government acknowledges the importance of the Irish language as the first language of the State, as a living language, and as a vital component of the heritage of this island. We are determined to increase not just the visibility of our native language but also its daily use within the community. I feel passionately about the protection and preservation of Gaeltacht areas to ensure they remain at the heart of a living language.” In relation to sport, the Minister of State said, “I look forward to doing what I can to ensure sporting events return safely for all. During the pandemic, it was clear that running, cycling and walking became increasingly popular as people wanted to mind their physical and mental health. We will build on this during my term in office to improve public health and wellbeing. We will also ensure our High Performance Athletes are assisted as much as possible to achieve their goals and inspire our nation.”

*Added on 02/07/20* Farming for Nature: Ask the Farmer Sessions

Farming For Nature Ambassadors Darina Allen, Mervyn Auchmuty, Suzanna Crampton, Feargal Ó Cuinneagain, and Bridget Murphy will be our featured guests during our upcoming ‘Ask the Farmer’ sessions this summer. These Monday evening sessions will include a short interview with the featured farmer and then an open Q&A session where you can ‘ask the farmer’ about anything you want to know about farming for nature on their farm, with a focus on practical management advice. It is a great opportunity to learn from our amazing Ambassadors who work with nature every day on their farms, and also to share your own ideas and experience of ‘Farming for Nature’. This will be all done online through Zoom which you can access on your smart phone or computer. All you have to do is register for free on the relevant link below. Note spaces are limited to 100 to do sign up as soon as possible if interested.

6th July: Dairy, horticulture & food education with Darina Allen Register here: https://bit.ly/AsktheFarmerDAllen 13th July: Farming tillage, beef & nature with Mervyn Auchmuty Register here: https://bit.ly/AsktheFarmerMA 20th July: Farming with sheep & agritourism with Suzanna Crampton Register here: https://bit.ly/AsktheFarmerSC 27th July: Farming for habitats & species with Feargal Ó Cuinneagáin Register here: https://bit.ly/AsktheFarmerFOC 3rd August: Hillfarming & species richness with Bridget Murphy Register here: https://bit.ly/AsktheFarmerBM

*Added on 03/07/20* Irish Museums Reopen The re-opening of Irish museums to the public is a very positive and welcome step. Museums play a vital role in connecting people to their cultural heritage and identity. Many museums will re-open throughout July and August but some regretfully will not. The Irish Museums Association have gathered together the information of those museums and galleries opening and produced an interactive map showing all the current details and will update the map as further openings take place. To find out more go to https://irishmuseums.org/text-pages/interactive-map-reopening-of-museums-across-ireland

*Added on 03/07/20* Heritage Council welcomes the appointment of Minister of State for Heritage Malcolm Noonan TD The Heritage Council has welcomed the appointment of a Minister of State for Heritage. Under the newly- formed Government, the heritage brief will fall under the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Speaking on the appointment of Malcolm Noonan TD of the as the Minister of State with responsibility for Heritage, the Chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons, said: “The decision by the Government to create a dedicated junior ministerial post to manage the heritage brief is very welcome. Heritage has often suffered by being tagged to various portfolios. Having a dedicated junior ministry is recognition of the importance that heritage has in the lives of every citizen, as well as the contribution it can make to tourism, economic recovery and, importantly, the future of our country and our planet’. Also commenting, the Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan, said: “In recent weeks, the Heritage Council has consulted with the heritage sector and presented government officials with some insights on how the heritage sector has coped during the lockdown. Heritage supports vital jobs, throughout communities, as well as playing a critical role in supporting our collective wellbeing. We believe this is the first time heritage has been assigned a dedicated junior minister and we very much look forward to working with Minister of State Noonan – and indeed with Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien - on promoting the value that heritage can have in COVID-recovery. It is especially welcome that Minister of State Noonan is from , home to the headquarters of the Heritage Council, and he is well-appraised of the value that heritage plays in the economy and social infrastructure of Kilkenny city and county” she added.

*Added on 04/07/20* All-Ireland Pollinator Plan Engagement Survey Any person who has participated in the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan is welcome to take this survey! The data collected from this survey will help form a masters thesis by Elizabeth Elli at Trinity College Dublin. This research is coordinated with the National Biodiversity Data Centre with the purpose of understanding user motivations to engage with the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan. This survey is anonymous, and any data collected will be used for the sole purpose of this study. We hope that recommendations from this survey will help form phase II of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan. The survey has 4 short sections and will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. The closing date to complete this survey is July 10th 2020 and can be accessed by clicking the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScjHnCywytG-3xUAfykV31E4V9a5l9aN3- Q0N9KczDS5TCIfQ/viewform

*Added on 07/07/20* Heritage Council Survey on the impact of Covid-19 on the Heritage Sector

The Heritage Council has recently undertaken a survey to assess the impacts of COVID-19 on the heritage sector. There was a strong response to the survey, with 510 individuals, businesses and agencies participating. Some of the key findings included:

· Two-thirds (66%) of heritage sector workers suffered loss or postponement of work due to COVID-19. · 52% of respondents had experienced temporary closure. · 51% experienced postponement or cancellation of events. · 46% experienced a lack of revenue streams. · 20% experienced staff well-being issues. · 17% believe their business / organisation would be unlikely to survive the next 12 months without major intervention. · 75% of heritage organisations did not have a recovery plan in place.

From the survey the Heritage Council is very aware, however, that heritage in all its forms – natural, built and intangible – has played a really important role for our citizens during lockdown. In this regard, the Heritage Council has proposed to Government a range of supports – including financial, capacity-building and advice – that can support the heritage sector in recovery. For more information on the survey see the infographic above or email [email protected].

*Added on 08/07/20* Inspiration for Heritage Week 2020 Projects The National Heritage Week 2020 theme ‘Heritage and Education: Learning from our heritage’ is proving to be a rich source of inspiration for heritage projects. To help you with your projects three heritage specialists have produced videos to inspire and help you to find out more about some of the resources that may inform your project. 1. Heritage on your doorstep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oV62OLvAeE 2. Heritage and education: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1RPsUvrugM 3. Relearning heritage skills: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49nPl61yUSk Good luck with your projects.

*Added on 08/07/20* Bantry Museum Reopening

Bantry Museum is opening on Tuesday 14th July. Initially it will open 3 days per week, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays. from 10.00am to 16.00pm Bantry Historical & Archaeological Society hopes to extend these opening times in due course. See www.bantryhistorical.com for further updates.

*Added on 09/07/20* Skibbereen Heritage Centre Releases New Video - Aughadown Graveyard Skibbereen Heritage Centre has released another graveyard video tour - this time on Aughadown Graveyard, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpamfEUZIu0. Aughadown Graveyard is one of the most beautiful medieval graveyards in West Cork. Located on the banks of the River Ilen, west of Skibbereen town, it contains burials from the Roman Catholic, Church of Ireland and Methodist communities from Lisheen and Aughadown parishes and other areas of West Cork. This short film looks at some of the more famous people buried there - including the soldier who fought with King William of Orange at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690 who is buried alongside a young IRA soldier who was shot in 1922; a doctor who risked his life daily during Ireland's Great Famine and the man who is credited with saving the name 'Skibbereen'. Other graveyards in this series by Skibbereen Heritage Centre include Abbeystrowry https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUqbWMH3Mn4, Abbeymahon https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BR87NFAbcLo and Caheragh https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OB8nNdjiT68

*Added on 09/07/20* Sirius Arts Centre Cobh Reopens on July 10th 2020 The Sirius Arts Centre, Cobh, reopens on Friday, 10 July, after sixteen weeks of pandemic-related closure. ‘We look forward to welcoming artists and communities to our building as well as continuing our online offerings. As we reopen, the health and safety of visitors and staff is our priority. New COVID-19 prevention measures include enhanced cleanings, provision of hand sanitiser, removal of high-touch materials, discontinuation of cash payments and limitation of the number of visitors to secure physical distancing, all complemented by awareness signage. Team members are on hand to assist visitors both at reception and across the galleries. We are recommending the wearing of cloth face coverings while in the galleries, as per Irish government guidelines. Team members are using personal protection equipment when working together and/or in public. We have new summer opening hours: Thursday – Saturday, 11am – 5pm. Entry is free, and we are not using an advance booking system. We are prioritising people who identify themselves as vulnerable by dedicating the first hour of the day to them. We invite you to (re)explore our building, which is of architectural significance, and engage with our on-site programme – encompassing exhibitions, performances, events and learning activities. In addition, stay informed regarding our expanding online programme by visiting our website. We look forward to sharing our work with you once again!’

*Added on 09/07/20* Latest Tidy Towns Newsletter Published In a bid to keep the ethos of the SuperValu TidyTowns competition alive and well and to keep those many volunteers and TidyTowns groups up to date, it is planned to produce an issue of the Tidy Towns Magazine each month for the foreseeable future. The latest issue has just been published and features articles on Clonakilty, and . To view the newsletter, which can be accessed on the National Tidy Towns website, visit https://www.tidytowns.ie/about-us/newsletters/

*Added on 11/07/20* Minister Martin meets the Arts Council to discuss challenges facing the Arts and Culture Sector Catherine Martin TD, Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht today met with the Arts Council to discuss the immediate challenges facing the arts and culture sector, Arts Council funding, the re-opening of venues following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, and how all stakeholders might work together towards a sustainable future for arts, artists and arts workers, in which the sector is recognised and valued for its critical role in Irish society and the Irish economy. Minister Martin indicated that she was strongly committed to the arts and culture sector and that her objective in Government would be to support the immediate survival of the sector, and to support a strong renewal, with the ultimate aim of “ensuring that art and culture are at the centre of our society, that our artists are recognised and valued, and that the cultural creativity for which Ireland is renowned is reflected in a vibrant sector where artistic livelihoods are properly sustained and supported”. She said that she is committed to working with the Arts Council to support the sector by implementing policies that will sustain the arts throughout the Covid-19 crisis and build resilience for the future, as well as working on a longer term vision for the future of the arts in Ireland. As a first step, the Minister also announced today she is providing capital grants for arts and culture organisations to enable them to appropriate alterations to help them to reopen safely. Officials in her Department will be engaging with arts and culture organisations over the coming days with a view to assessing what individual supports may be required. The Minister also indicated that she will shortly establish a multi-disciplinary Task Force to protect and sustain the arts and culture sector through the Covid- 19 recovery and beyond building on the commitments in the Programme for Government. The Minister discussed the possible the composition of that Task Force with the Arts Council today and it is expected that an announcement will be made in the coming weeks. In discussions with the Arts Council Chair, Kevin Rafter, and new Director Maureen Kennelly, Minister Martin praised the Arts Council’s decision to appoint an Expert Advisory Group to respond to the crisis for the arts sector in Ireland and the timely report from the Group Survive, Adapt, Renew which has and will continue to provide valuable guidance on the way forward. The Minister particularly welcomed the leadership role played by the Arts Council in relation to equality, human rights and diversity, which said she strongly supports, noting that the culture sector has a particularly important leadership role to play in promoting and celebrating diversity, equality and human rights values. Minister Martin said: “I very much look forward to working with the Council in addressing the immediate challenges facing the sector and in charting a vibrant future for artists, art and culture in Ireland.”

*Added on 11/07/20* Minister Noonan Congratulates Farming for Nature on its prestigous International Recognition Minister Malcolm Noonan, Minister of State in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has welcomed the international recognition achieved by the Irish ‘Farming for Nature’ initiative. Farming for Nature was developed by the Burrenbeo Trust in 2018 and aims to acknowledge and support farmers who farm, or wish to farm, in a way that supports nature and biodiversity. Bord Bia sponsors an annual “Farming for Nature” award to farmers who have been nominated for having made a significant contribution to the protection or enhancement of nature on their farm and/or in their locality. The National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine provide additional support in the coordination and the development of educational resources for those who farm for nature. This additional funding commitment is one of “Our Seeds for Nature”, which was announced at the 2019 National Biodiversity Conference: New Horizons for Nature. This Irish partnership model has been recognised in the international competition ‘Act for Biodiversity Challenge’. Over 200 projects across the world were assessed and Farming for Nature was awarded second place in this competition, receiving a cash prize of €40,000. Farming for Nature will have access to an Accelerator Programme to share what has been successful in Ireland with other countries. Minister Noonan congratulated the Farming for Nature initiative and said, “I am delighted that Farming for Nature is being recognised and showcased for the excellent work that they are doing in the area of farmland biodiversity. I am particularly encouraged by the partnership model that involves staff of my Department working closely with others to deliver a Seed for Nature. Further information on ‘Farming for Nature’ is available at https://www.farmingfornature.ie/ and further information on “Act for Biodiversity Challenge” is available at https://network.changemakers.com/challenge/act-for-biodiversity- challenge/brief.

*Added on 11/07/20* Kilmurry Fieldtrip to Gurranreigh Famine Monument

Kilmurry Historical and Archaeological Association is pleased to announce their our first summer event, a field trip to the famine village at Gurranreigh. Local historian Michael Galvin will be giving the talk and those attending are to meet at Independence Museum Kilmurry at 3pm on Sunday July 26th (Weather permitting). The event is free to members and for non-members the cost is €5 per person. Social distancing and all applicable Covid 19 guidelines and restrictions will be adhered to. For further information, email [email protected].

*Added on 13/07/20* New Checklist of European Bryophytes Minister Malcolm Noonan, Minister of State in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, has welcomed the publication of the “Checklist and country status of European bryophytes – update 2020”. This is a benchmark publication, as it represents the culmination of intensive work by European bryophyte specialists over a number of years. Bryophytes are a group of plant species that reproduce by spores rather than by flowers or seeds. The word “bryophyte” is the collective term that includes mosses and liverworts. Ireland has a rich bryophyte flora and supports nearly 48% of the total European flora. This publication, as an Irish Wildlife Manual, presents the results of collaborative research, funded and coordinated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) on the conservation status of European bryophytes. This project would not have been possible without the international cooperation and input by bryologists from across all the states and territories of Europe. Members of the European Committee for Conservation of Bryophytes and other bryologists Europe-wide contributed to this report by generously providing information.

Tables listing all 2,137 bryophyte taxa (species, subspecies and varieties) recorded in Europe, along with their distribution and Red List status by country/territory, are presented. An extensive bibliography and literature list are provided, followed by an appendix with useful references. Appendices with lists of European bryological societies, journals, floras and the country contacts of the European Committee for Conservation of Bryophytes are presented at the end of the report. Minister Noonan congratulated the NPWS and said, “It is clear that bryophytes know no borders! It is very gratifying that scientific expertise in even the smallest of plants is being encouraged and showcased by publications such as this. I am delighted that the National Parks and Wildlife Service has provided the catalyst for this research across Europe.” The report is available to download from: https://www.npws.ie/publications/irish-wildlife-manuals and is the citation is: Hodgetts, N. & Lockhart, N. (2020) Checklist and country status of European bryophytes – update 2020. Irish Wildlife Manuals, No. 123. National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Ireland.

*Added on 17/07/20* Use Your Lego to Showcase Local Heritage The Heritage Council is calling on children, aged 4 to 12 years of age, across the country to put their imagination to good use this summer by using their Lego bricks to recreate their favourite example of Irish built, natural or cultural heritage. You must choose your category, build a model, write a short description of what your model represents and why it’s important to you. Closing date: Sunday 30th August. Lego books and kits will be provided for the winners. To find out more go to https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/lego-competition

*Added on 17/07/20* Ireland's Intangible Cultural Heritage The Dept. of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has launched an open call for applications to showcase elements of Ireland’s Intangible Cultural Heritage as part of Heritage Week 2020. They will provide bursaries to the successful applicants where costs for showcasing are involved, up to a maximum of €1000. Closing date for receipt of proposals: 12pm 24th July. Further details/application forms at https://nationalinventoryich.chg.gov.ie/intangible-cultural-heritage-and-heritage-week-2020-open-call- for-applications-to-showcase-irelands-intangible-cultural-heritage/

*Added on 17/07/20* ReThink Ireland Equality Fund The Equality Fund 2020-2023 has been launched to support organisation and groups that empower marginalised communities and tackle systemic inequality. It will focus on three strands: 1. Empowering Women 2. Strengthening Communities and 3. Building equality Together. Closing date for applications (submitted on line) is 5pm Monday 14th September. Further details at https://rethinkireland.ie/current_fund/equality-fund-2020-2023/

*Added on 17/07/20* Irish Music Legend Peadar Ó Riada is Cork Person of the Month

Musician and Composer, Peadar Ó Riada has been named as Cork Person of the Month for June 2020. The award marks Peadar’s contribution to Irish culture as a composer, musician, choir director and broadcaster. Peadar’s interest in music began at a young age, as he was inspired by his father, Seán Ó Riada, who was one of the most influential figures in the revival of Irish traditional music during the 1960s. Peadar graduated from University College Cork with a Bachelor of Music degree in 1976. After his graduation, he spent a few years as teacher, co-op manager, festival director, commercial beekeeper, broadcaster and educator. He has lived his life in , near the Cork-Kerry border, where he raised his family with his wife Geraldine Moloney. Over the years he has performed with many different groups. In 2008, he performed with the traditional Irish group, Triúr (with Martin Hayes and Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh), in 2013 with the traditional group The Drôle (with John Kelly and Eamon McGivney), and in 2014 with Continuing Traditions (with Wajahat Khan). He has been taking his father, Seán Ó Riada’s, place at the keyboards and directing Ceoltóirí Chualan since 1971. He also regularly performs in a duet with Seán Ó Sé. The contributions that Peadar has made during his career have been invaluable to the traditional music community, at both a local and national level. In 1986, he founded the all-female choir Cór Ban Cúil Aodha. He founded the traditional University Acadamh Fódhla in 2000, the Irish Cultural trust Iontaoibheas Fódhla in 1999, and in 2011 the international festival “Féile na Laoch” commemorating his late father Seán Ó Riada. Peadar has also acted as Director of Cór Cúil Aodha since September 1971. His work has given more people opportunities to pursue traditional Irish music and acquaint themselves with the traditions. Peadar has also composed extensively for Cór Cúil Aodha and has accumulated a large body of liturgical and secular works for Male Voiced Choir in the Irish traditional idiom. His compositions for Female choir are polyphonic and include several large works, as well as choral arrangements for traditional Irish songs. His body of traditional Irish Dance music compositions has made its way into the mainstream of Irish music and are recorded by many artists in this genre. Speaking on his success Peadar said, “It’s great to be recognised by the people of Cork who have supported me throughout my career. Irish traditional music is my passion and I am thankful that I have been able to do what I love every day.” Ó Riada has also been working on his autobiography over a number of years and says “It’s my intention to be very frank in it - so there’s a lot of stuff in it." Awards Organiser Manus O’Callaghan said, “Peadar Ó Riada’s own contribution to the Cork cultural and artistic scene has been wide reaching. Of course, you can’t mention the O’Riada family name, without thinking of Mise Eire. The emotional energy of that piece of music is deeply affecting in Ireland. Indeed, many feel it should be our National Anthem." Peadar Ó Riada’s name will now go forward for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year at an awards lunch on January 15th next at Rochestown Park Hotel. Sponsors of the awards scheme are the Irish Examiner/The Echo; RTE; Southern; Lexus Cork; AM O’Sullivan PR; Cork Crystal; Tony O’Connell Photography; CAVS; Musgrave MarketPlace.

*Added on 17/07/20* Rebel Rally Run 2020

Independence Museum Kilmurry is pleased to announce that the 3rd annual Car Run is proceeding this year, leaving the Museum at noon on Sunday 16th August. The event is open to all cars this year, not just vintage. Price per car is €20. The itinerary includes:

- Ambush site with Sean Crowley as speaker -Railway Bar Upton for Light refreshments - Ambush site with Mary O'Mahony as speaker -Finishing up at Creedon's Hotel Inchigeelagh (Lunch will available but is not included in the price)

Registration will begin at 10am and all cars are welcome. Contact Siobhan at 086 1767295. The Atlas of the Irish Revolution will also be on display at the Independence Museum. See attached poster for details and please share with anyone you think might be interested.

*Added on 18/07/20* Lissarda Ambush 100 Years On

Lissarda Ambush 100 years on: On 22nd August 1920 a group of Irish volunteers under the command of Patrick O’Leary attacked an RIC patrol just outside Lissarda Village in Mid Cork. The only fatality in the ambush was Michael Galvin, Quarter Master with the Irish Volunteers. Michael was a local man, married with two young children, and his memory is honoured with a monument on the Cork side of Lissarda village. The special 100th anniversary of the ambush is being commemorated this August by Kilmurry Historical & Archaeological Association with the launch of both an exhibition in Independence Museum Kilmurry and a book about the ambush by local historian Mary O’Mahony. The exhibition will educate the audience about those involved in the ambush as well as local events at the time and will be open to the public from 2pm Sunday August 23rd 2020 at Independence Museum Kilmurry. The book ‘Lissarda Ambush’ gives an in-depth account of the ambush and those who participated on both sides. It will be available for sale from that weekend also. The exhibition will be on display from launch date throughout September. Museum opening times are Thurs to Sun 2-5pm but can be visited at other times by prior request. Contact [email protected] or 021 7336932 with enquiries.

*Added on 20/07/20* €500,000 Investment in the Creative Ireland Programme's new Creativity in Older Age Programme Today the Minister for Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht, Catherine Martin T.D. announced an exciting new programme of creative activity for older people to be delivered by the Creative Ireland Programme through its strategic national partners and the local authorities. The Creativity in Older Age Programme has been designed to counteract the social side effects of the pandemic. It will begin immediately and will be rolled out over the next 18 months. Commenting on the need for creative activity for older people, Minister Catherine Martin T.D. said: “The effect of the pandemic on our older citizens has been devastating. Through necessity they have had to isolate themselves away from family and friends and in doing so have lost the social links that generate contentment, confidence and mental wellbeing. My department knows the arts and creative programmes can help to rebuild the social connections that have been lost.” The following projects will be delivered by the Creative Ireland Programme’s key strategic partners: Age and Opportunity will deliver a series of creative residencies in six care settings around the country. These creative residencies will last six months and will concentrate on dance, music and performance. The Irish Hospice Foundation (IHF) will deliver a programme of projects designed to give meaning to the difficulties experienced by dying, death and bereavement. These will include the curation of a poetry collection By Your Side that will assist with articulating feelings around dying, death and loss. The Creative Ireland Programme will support a research project with The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) to measure the effects of participation in social and creative activities on the health and wellbeing of adults aged 50+. Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA) Included in IMMA’s extensive programme of creative programmes will be 20 fully accessible short videos that will encourage the slow looking of their Collection. IMMA will hold fortnightly remotely accessible Azure dementia-inclusive sessions as well as providing once a week slots for nursing home groups. With the support of the Creative Ireland, IMMA will give older people the opportunity to take a virtual trip around some of the famous museum collections in the world. The museum will also provide printed resources to encourage accessible engagement with artworks from IMMA’s collection. These and other activities will expand IMMA’s national reach to older people who have been impacted by Covid19 restrictions. The Creative Ireland Programme will support Sing Ireland’s Ageing Voices project to produce resources and best practice training programmes for musicians and carers working with older people when it is safe to do so. In addition to the national programme, Creative Ireland will also deliver 25 creative projects for older people with our local authority partners around the country, including the County of Cork. Highlights include projections of slow-motion video portraits of older people in Carlow, a Community Notebook project in Kildare, Modern Day Mummers in Leitrim, an intergenerational film project in Louth with young people and their older neighbours recounting their experiences of lockdown, the publishing and recording of a 77 year old’s diary in Meath and mobile opera concerts in Waterford. Commenting on the participation of local authorities in Creative Ireland’s Positive Ageing and Creative Well Being Programme, Minister Catherine Martin T.D. said: “The enthusiasm and energy behind the projects that will be delivered by the local authorities is extraordinary. They are truly imaginative and are innately responsive to the needs of their community. I am delighted to be able to support such thoughtful and engaging projects for our older citizens.” For more information on the Creative Ireland Programme Creativity in Older Age programme, please go to www.creativeireland.gov.ie

*Added on 21/07/20* Recipients of Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme 2020 Cork County Council has awarded an allocation of €53,800 to 37 different groups and individuals throughout the County through its Creative Ireland Grant Scheme 2020. The Scheme is financed through Ireland's National Creative Ireland Office and aims to support people and communities in undertaking cultural projects in keeping with the Creative Ireland Programme Strands and the priorities set out in the County Cork Culture and Creativity Strategy 2018-2022. Allocations from the scheme were also informed by Project ACT, in recognition of the important role of culture and creativity in the social and economic reactivation of towns and villages. Under the 2020 scheme a range of proposals were granted, each having a strong connection with the key Creative Ireland principles, including the engagement of young people and communities in creative endeavours, promoting the Irish language and showcasing existing cultural resources in the region. Now in its 4th year, the Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme has been successful in supporting many cultural projects in Cork County. Prior to the 2020 Scheme announcement, 140 different projects were supported to an amount of over €170,000. Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the announcement saying, “Cork County has a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant artistic community and an important history of contribution to the arts. Being home to the Gaeltachtaí of Múscraí and Cléire, we also have an important role to play with regards to the Irish language and its community. The County Cork Creative Ireland Scheme assists us in support communities to engage with these vital parts of their heritage and identity, and we’re delighted to do so again for the 4th year running.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council Tim Lucey said, “The Creative Ireland County Cork Grant Scheme highlights Cork County Council’s commitment to supporting community groups and individuals who are passionate about culture, and their creativity in contributing to it. Awarded projects were selected with the Council’s Project ACT in mind, recognising the importance that culture and creativity plays in the social and economic prosperity of towns and villages in Cork County.” To find out more about the Creative Ireland Programme in the County of Cork visit www.corkcoco.ie/arts- heritage/creative-ireland or email [email protected].

*Added on 21/07/20* Heritage Week 2020 Projects

In little over three weeks’ time, Heritage Week 2020 gets underway from Saturday 15th to Sunday 23rd August. The theme for Heritage Week this year is Heritage and Education but given all that is happening and may still happen with regard to Covid-19, a different approach has been taken this year – one focused more on highlighting projects and marvellous past Heritage Week successes – over what has been established practice for Heritage Week being the holding of events. For the past many number of years Heritage Week in County Cork has traditionally seen over 150 events in as many as 60 different locations each year, however, this year, www.heritageweek.ie is the location to see all that is happening. Already a number of fascinating projects from throughout County Cork have been highlighted - from Skibbereen and Bere Island to Charleville, Cobh and Midleton - with more being uploaded every day. Anyone is welcome to submit a project and by way of guidance, three heritage specialists have produced videos to inspire and help groups on how to go about undertaking their project, based on ‘Heritage on Your Doorstep (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_oV62OLvAeE); Heritage and Education (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1RPsUvrugM) and Relearning Heritage Skills (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49nPl61yUSk ). For anyone looking for additional advice or a strong Cork County focus, simply send an email to Cork County Council at [email protected].

*Added on 30/07/20* New Videos on the History and Heritage of Inchigeelagh Joe Creedon of Inchigeelagh has undertaken a series of short videos, produced by Richard Fensome, which were recorded during Lockdown. The videos were primarily produced for Facebook, but proved so popular to an international audience that I they have now been released on Youtube as well. There are six videos currently uploaded and to watch same visit Joe Creedon’s Inchigeelagh on Youtube https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBNbiV7Y9XA2l9qPziLgEHXqn7riVCCll

*Added on 31/07/20* Heritage Council Welcomes Stimulus to Support Heritage Sector The Heritage Council has welcomed this week’s announcement by the Minister for State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, that an €8.5 million investment will be made available for heritage, as part of the Government’s overall €5-billion stimulus package. According to CEO of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan: “The decision to earmark a specific budget line to support the heritage sector is an acknowledgement of the role which heritage plays in our economy, in society and for us all personally. I have said it many times over the past months, heritage has been an escape; a source of learning and discovery; and an anchor for our wellbeing over the Covid-19 crisis, particularly during the lockdown days. During lockdown, the Heritage Council undertook a survey to establish the impacts of the crisis on the heritage sector. From visitor sites to heritage skills practitioners, the impacts were immediate and grave. The Heritage Council shared the results of this survey with our parent Department, and we are pleased that the €8.5 million package recognises the value that heritage plays. The Heritage Council is especially pleased that €900,000 has been identified for our administration to heritage businesses and organisations. Over the coming weeks, we will be designing a grants structure that is accessible and sustainable, and under which these funds will be disbursed. I will be remaining in close contact with Minister Noonan and his officials on the design of this scheme,” added Ms Teehan. Chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons added: “Heritage does not just happen. It needs to be cared for, nurtured and developed. That goes for all aspects of our cultural heritage: natural, built or intangible, such as language and traditional crafts. This funding stimulus will help heritage to continue to ‘happen’, and serve our population well as we enter into peak staycation period.”

*Added on 31/07/20* Prosecution for the Destruction of Vegetation The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) brought a case under Wildlife Acts before Judge Catherine Staines in Tullamore District Court on 20th July 2020. The case was prosecuted for the Department by William Maher BL and the State Solicitor for County Offaly, Sandra Mahon whereby a man was summonsed under Section 40 of the Wildlife Acts for the destruction of vegetation on lands not then cultivated and on vegetation growing in a hedge during the statutory bird nesting season. The offences took place on lands at Gortcreen, Shinrone, Co. Offaly on April 9 and 10 2019 and involved the destruction of over 300 metres of vegetation growing on a hedge and a plea of guilty was entered. William Maher BL outlined the facts of the case and highlighted the fact the vegetation destruction occurred at a particularly sensitive time for nesting birds. Judge Staines warned the defendant that the matter had serious implications for nesting birds and other wildlife and told him not engage in similar activity or come before her again on similar charges or the outcome would be more serious. Judge Staines then asked for a €300 contribution to a suitable wildlife charity payable by the September sitting of Tullamore District Court in lieu of a conviction. Conservation Rangers Kieran Buckley and Colm Malone nominated Butterfly Conservation Ireland. It is an offence under Section 40 of the Wildlife Acts to destroy vegetation growing in any hedge or ditch or on lands not then cultivated during the bird nesting season that runs from 1 March to 31 August each year. Speaking of the prosecution Minister Malcom Noonan, T.D. said “I welcome this prosecution as hedgerows are vitally important for our wildlife and contribute hugely to biodiversity. There have been other successful prosecutions this year taken by the NPWS for illegal vegetation clearance and hedge cutting in counties Laois, Tipperary and Waterford.” The Minister added “It is the Department’s policy to prosecute those found in breach of the legislation, including public bodies, and any incidents of illegal burning, clearing of vegetation or hedge cutting should be reported to the local National Parks and Wildlife Service Office or an An Garda Síochána.”

*Added on 31/07/20* Transport Infrastructure Ireland Story Maps as part of National Heritage Week 2020 Each year since 2015, Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has organised a national programme of events to mark Heritage Week, where it has shared the results of its archaeological and heritage work at a local, regional and national level. In past years this has included family days, pop-up exhibitions, seminars and lectures. With current public health restrictions, this year's project will focus on sharing some of the results of TII's work virtually, working with different partners including local authorities, archaeological companies, specialists and local heritage groups. In this regard, TII has created an exciting new resource on the TII website. Bringing together in one place (https://www.tii.ie/technical- services/archaeology/storymaps/index.xml) a series of Story Maps, which combine the latest mapping technology with narrative text, images, and multimedia content to tell compelling stories - an ideal tool to communicate archaeological discoveries and have been used on a number of TII projects. In the main these have been produced by the Archaeological Companies and Consultants who carried out the archaeological investigations and in the County of Cork include the archaeology of the N22 Baile Bhuirne to Road Development. As the details of other events and projects are finalised this page will be updated.

*Added on 05/08/20* Update from Richard T. Cooke regarding the Celebrating Cork Past Exhibition Video Due to the continued Covid-19 pandemic and the subsequent cancellation of the 12th Annual Family Heritage Festival - Celebrating Cork Past Exhibition 2020 (that was scheduled to take place in the Millennium Hall, City Hall, Cork City on Saturday, October 2nd next); the Committee is now compiling a film regarding the history of the Exhibition. You and your popular historical society/organisation are invited to be part of this very special film by contributing a brief history of your society including your society’s contact details (100 words approx.) and two photographs. This historical film is supported by Cork City Council, Cork County Council & the Cork Lions Club and will be launched on Exhibition Day, Saturday, October 2nd next on: Cork City Councils Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmRtn3cK-AoHRR09K5Us41A, and on, Cork County Council’s Heritage YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLpanPZv73IBwemrN91qhV1x4XwNyJPwj9. It will also feature on other youtube channels and will showcase and promote the dedicated work society members contribute to their community. You can send your Society’s brief rich colourful history/photographs/contact details to either my good self at [email protected] or to Conor Nelligan, Heritage Officer at [email protected]. Closing date: Monday, August 31st next. If you need any further information please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re looking forward to hearing from you. On behalf of the Committee we would like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours and your good colleagues a nice August – Take Care and Keep Safe, Richard T. Cooke.

*Added on 05/08/20* Mallow and Heritage Week 2020 For Heritage Week 2020 Mallow Field Club will publish a written version of its guided historical Mallow Town Walk - the first half on Thursday, 13th August and the second half on Thursday, 20th August - in two local newspapers: the Mallow Star and the Corkman. Those who wish can then self-guide through the fascinating and historic town of Mallow. For health and safety reasons due to Covid 19 restrictions, Mallow Field Club cannot undertake the popular, live, guided walks of last year’s Heritage Week but hopefully the detail in the papers will be of interest to many with an interest in the history and heritage of the Crossroads of Munster.

*Added on 05/08/20* Submit Your Heritage Week 2020 Project online at www.heritageweek.ie

For National Heritage Week 2020 a number of wonderful projects have already been submitted and are available to see on www.heritageweek.ie and for those yet to do so, it should be noted that project details can be submitted up to and including Monday 10th August 2020. Close to 20 projects have already been registered for the County of Cork and visit www.heritageweek.ie for details of each project as well details of any events on the ground to be held in accordance with Public Health Guidance.

*Added on 06/08/20* International Napoleonic Society Conference to be held in Cork in 2022 Cork has been selected as the Host for the International Napoleonic society conference in 2022. The Napoleon Society of Ireland (NSI) is particularly honoured to be chosen as this is the second time Ireland has hosted the INS Congress having hosted the 2016 event at the Stephen’s Green Club in Dublin. Cork has a many connections to the Napoleonic story from the Bantry Bay invasion to the Burial of Dr Verhling and the Conference in 2022 will be one to look forward to with more details provided closer to the date.

*Added on 06/08/20* Public Consultation on Draft Prioritised Action Framework for Ireland 2021-2027 A Draft Prioritised Action Framework (PAF) has been launched by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). This is a strategic planning tool, providing a comprehensive overview of the measures needed to manage the Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas network in Ireland. The draft framework identifies the financing needs for the implementation of these measures over the period 2021 - 2027. The estimated costs for Ireland are indications of the level of investment required to manage and restore habitats and species within the Natura 2000 network and is not a commitment to funding. https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/general/paf-2021-2027-consultation-draft.pdf

*Added on 06/08/20* Youghal Celebrates History to hold online Talk on Wednesday 12th August 2020 Youghal Celebrates History is holding another talk on line, at 7.30 on Wednesday 12th August. ‘This time we look at the short life of Eric Hodges. His father was Rector of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church. Eric and his brother, Ralph, fought at the Battle of the Somme. We traced his life, school days, and his army career before and during the Battle of the Somme where he was killed. His is one of the three crosses in St. Mary’s from World War One’. To attend log in to Zoom.us and follow the guidelines. The meeting ID is 984 675 0752 and the Password is History. The talk is free and for those seeking to attend, please log on five minutes before 19:30 to ensure all is well. The talk lasts 30 minutes and all welcome.

*Added on 18/08/20* Help Our Local Heritage Please help our local heritage sector by visiting heritage venues throughout the county in the coming months. Apart from being wonderful places to visit they need our support.

*Added on 18/08/20* 2020 Museums Audience Engagement Fund The Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Catherine Martin TD, announced a €2m funding scheme for not-for-profit small, regional and specialised museums that are not funded by the Arts Council or Fáilte Ireland. This fund will assist these venues in re-engaging with audiences, provide new or redeveloped cultural offerings and further develop online and social media engagement. Criteria and applications form can be accessed at https://www.chg.gov.ie/arts/culture/grants-and-funding/2020- audience-engagement-fund/ Closing date for applications is 5.30pm Friday 4th September 2020.

*Added on 18/08/20* A Museum of the Irish Language and Gaelic Revival in Béal Átha'n Ghaorthaidh () Ballingeary is working hard on development a museum of the Irish Language and Gaelic Revival. A recent video has been undertaken and is now available to view on www.YouTube.com by clicking the following link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TgvMEfrX7Q

*Added on 18/08/20* Stories from the Waterside Publication The Local Authority Waters programme is a shared service of all Local Authorities in the country, working with local communities, relevant stakeholders and state agencies to develop and implement River Basin Management Plans in Ireland, in line with the EU Water Framework Directive. ‘The Stories from the Waterside was a fantastic opportunity for us to engage with people during the Covid 19 lockdown in 2020. The huge public response to the competition and the wide range of themes illustrate just how important water is, not just as a utility, but also how it connects with us at a much deeper level’. A wonderful epublication has been put together available to view by clicking - http://watersandcommunities.ie/wp- content/uploads/2020/08/STORIES-FROM-WATERSIDE-A5-Digital.pdf

*Added on 19/08/20* Heritage Week Live Events and Recent Changes in Public Health Guidance In line with our project policy, any project that may result in a small community event or public gathering must be compliant with COVID-19 public health advice from the Irish Government. These guidelines have been updated recently. Should you need to postpone or cancel your event, please contact the National Heritage Week Office and we will update your project profile for you. If you plan on visiting a heritage site or joining in some of the in-person activities taking place this week, please remember to: 1. Visit the organiser’s website or call them to make sure the site is currently open or the event is still going-ahead. 2. Check if pre-booking is necessary. 3. Adhere to public health guidelines and social distancing – the event or site you are visiting may have additional restrictions in place, so check this before you visit.

*Added on 20/08/20* Irish Landmark Trust Competition for Heritage Week 2020 Irish Landmark Trust is an official partner of National Heritage Week. To celebrate Heritage Week 2020, Irish Landmark Trust is offering one lucky winner a voucher for a two-night break in one of its unique heritage properties. To enter the competition, visit the competition page. The competition closes at midnight on Friday, 28th August 2020.

*Added on 20/08/20* Encourage Young Heritage Enthusiasts this National Heritage Week National Heritage Week isn't just for seasoned heritage enthusiasts: There are lots of projects and resources online to encourage young heritage enthusiasts to explore the heritage around them too. From the Heritage in Schools online tutorial videos, to the wealth of heritage projects designed for children, there is a mine of resources to choose from. Find out more...

*Added on 20/08/20* Fáilte Ireland Covid-19 Adaptation Fund ‘Fáilte Ireland’s new €26 Million COVID-19 Adaptation Fund opened for applications this week and interest is already extremely high. The Fund will help offset some of the costs that you have incurred in adapting your premises and operations for safe re-opening. Expenditure on items such as protective screens, outdoor areas, PPE, online apps, technology and sanitisers are all covered. We expect up to 12,000 tourism businesses will be eligible to receive financial support, making it our largest funding programme to date in terms of the number of businesses that will directly benefit. Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin secured the funding as part of the Government’s July Stimulus package. Following an independent assessment of the potential costs, we developed a sliding scale to ensure a proportionate grant amount was allocated to different types of businesses. I am encouraging businesses to check eligibility criteria and to apply as soon as possible. Applications are open until October 8th. For more information, visit our website www.failteireland.ie/covid-19-adaptation-fund.‘

*Added on 28/08/20* Archaeologists Find 5,700 Year Old Neolithic House in North Cork

Archaeologists in Cork have uncovered the foundations of a 5,700-year-old Neolithic house in addition to evidence of Iron Age smelting and Bronze Age burial sites. The archaeologists excavated a total of eight sites as part of two road realignment projects on the N73 road which links Mallow and Mitchelstown in Co. Cork. The excavations were carried out near the villages of and Kildorrery and archaeologists discovered foundations of a house dating back to 3700BC at one of the sites. They believe that the house belonged to some of the first farmers to inhabit the area. The excavations at the Neolithic house also uncovered grain, pottery, and stone tools dating back to the same period and the archaeologists believe that the people who inhabited the house would have been pioneers for Irish farming. The Irish Examiner reports that farming knowledge only arrived in Ireland around 200 years before this house was built, meaning that the settlement is one of the oldest farming settlements on the island of Ireland. Archaeologists also discovered evidence of ritual sites dating back to roughly the same period at the settlement. They found evidence of stone tools and pottery deliberately buried in holes in the Middle Neolithic era (3500BC to 2900BC) in a form of ritual that may have been associated with human burials. The tools and pottery may have been buried as an offering of gifts for the gods of the underworld. There was also evidence of a barrow cemetery dating back to the Bronze Age nestled by the banks of a meandering stream and overlooked by a nearby settlement. At a different site in the townland of Waterdyke, archaeologists found evidence of charcoal pits required in the smelting process to produce iron. The pits date back to between 266AD and 1244AD while further evidence of smelting was also found at Annakiska South. There was also evidence of a 17th-century enclosure at Annakiska South as well as clay pipes and glass in addition to evidence of a 17th-century smithy situated on the original road that would have made horseshoes for travellers passing between Mallow and Mitchelstown. Cork County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), who carried out the excavations and the roadworks, published an "online story map" documenting the archaeologists' results. The online map, created by TII project archaeologist Ken Hanley and Cork County Council resident archaeologist Ed Lynne, also documents previously discovered sites along the route and can be viewed here.

*Added on 29/08/20* Upcoming An Teagasc Seminars An Teagasc has organised a number of webinars over the month of September, which should be of interest to a wide audience with an interest in biodiversity and natural heritage. Full details below: https://www.teagasc.ie/corporate-events/sustainable-agriculture-webinars/

*Added on 01/09/20* Fulbright Irish Awards Launched The 2021-2022 Fulbright Irish Awards have just been launched with an application deadline of 2 November 2020. These Awards will provide opportunities for passionate Irish and EU students, scholars and professionals to undertake programmes and collaborate with experts at a U.S. institution or organisation of their choice, from August 2021-August 2022. The Fulbright Commission in Ireland’s mission is to fortify Irish and American collaboration through exchanges of talent, knowledge and scholarship. Global Fulbright Alumni have achieved distinction in many fields, and include 60 Nobel Prize recipients, 88 Pulitzer Prize winners, and 37 who have served as a head of state or government. With an emphasis on cultural immersion and building long-term academic and professional connections, the Fulbright programme selects excellent candidates from all over Ireland to work with top U.S. Institutions. The Awards are open to all disciplines and backgrounds. The Fulbright Commission in Ireland partners with local and international agencies to offer additional funding in the areas of Culture and Heritage, Health, Geoscience, Agriculture, Environmental Protection, Business Innovation, Law, Cybersecurity and Irish language. Successful candidates receive a monetary stipend, travel costs, accident and emergency insurance, visa administration, cultural and professional programming, and introduction to a vast international professional and academic network. The application deadline is 4pm, 2 November 2020. To learn more about the Fulbright Awards visit www.fulbright.ie. A number of webinars are available to watch on Fulbright Ireland’s YouTube channel. Chair of the Board of the Fulbright Commission in Ireland, Professor Diane Negra: “As a Fulbright Alumna, I strongly encourage students, scholars and professionals to consider making an application for one of the 2021-2022 Fulbright Awards. The Fulbright Program is renowned for recognizing and facilitating research endeavours of the highest calibre. Since its formation, it has also promoted and encouraged the kind of cross- cultural collaboration and understanding that is so vital to addressing global challenges. These Awards provide unique opportunities to play a role in addressing our common interests and needs and to positively shape the future.” Executive Director of the Fulbright Commission in Ireland, Dr Dara FitzGerald: “Fulbright continuously creates many thousands of deep personal connections in a complex and changing world. Our programs continue to focus on diversity, inclusion and equity, enriching Awardees’ educations and life experiences, advancing their careers and supporting them to make meaningful contributions in the U.S. and at home. Upon returning to Ireland, they share their stories and join hundreds of thousands of international alumni serving as leaders across the globe. Fulbright programs are wholly supported by Irish an U.S. Governments. Additional support from Irish agencies and higher education institutions has allowed for significant increase in award funding and diversity.” The U.S. Ambassador to Ireland Edward F. Crawford: “The Fulbright program plays a crucial role in strengthening the unique relationship shared by the United States and Ireland. The durability of Fulbright is especially important during these challenging times.” Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr T.D.: “Over the past 60 years, the Fulbright Programme has given thousands of individuals the opportunity to pursue educational exchanges between Ireland and the United States, deepening the links across the Atlantic. Fulbrighters have shared their ideas and culture, embarked on research and contributed to finding solutions to important international problems. Ireland is proud to support such an excellent programme, and I look forward to seeing the collaboration and connections which develop as a result of the 2021-2022 awards"

*Added on 01/09/20* Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2020

The Heritage Council invites applications for our Community Heritage Grant Scheme 2020.

Communities and heritage non-governmental organisations (NGOs) are encouraged to apply for funding to support capital projects that improve access and inclusion to heritage sites; that apply good heritage practice to the management of places, collections or objects (including buildings). The scheme also supports the purchase of essential equipment. This Community Heritage Grant Scheme is part of the rescue package recently announced by the Minister for State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Mr Malcolm Noonan, TD. Apply by 15th September 2020. Find out more

*Added on 01/09/20* Fulbright Culture and Creativity in Bantry and Bantry Historical Society Update Bantry Historical Society members are working on gathering material for their project Celebrating Culture & Creativity of the Bantry Area. Bantry has been known down through the years for its creativity. We are looking for poems/stories/works of art created about the area or composed by people who visited or lived in the area. This project is supported by Cork County Council Creative Ireland 2020 Funding Scheme. If anyone can help us with this exciting project, we'd love to hear from you. Please email [email protected] or phone 027 51246 All our events up to end of Sept 2020 have been cancelled due to Covid 19 restrictions. However, we have a busy programme for the following few months, but we will be closely monitoring updates on any further Covid-related restrictions which would impact on our schedule. Keep an eye on our website for updates www.bantryhistorical.com

*Added on 06/09/20* Cork County Council Library and Arts Service Plan 2020 – 2025 Cork County Council Library and Arts Service is currently preparing a Development Plan for the years 2020- 2025. Library Services nationwide and worldwide, have over the past number of years changed and adapted in response to external factors from economic to social, and from technological to, in recent times, global public health factors. The County Cork Library and Arts Service wishes to establish how it may best serve its community in the coming years and is inviting input from one and all. Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, encouraged Library users to have their say; “For everyone who enjoys the library and all the many services it offers this is a great opportunity to help shape the future of the service. The local library is an asset to every community, they are often important social outlets, provide easy access to information, books, publications and music, opening up a world of imagination for children. There will always be a place for libraries even as we move into an increasingly technological age and this is a great chance to look forward and imagine the possibilities as to how our libraries can grow into the future.” Deputy Chief Executive of Cork County Council, James Fogarty, added; “Cork County Council’s Library & Arts Service came into its own during the Covid19 response and the value of our libraries was highlighted more than ever. The Library Service has been to the forefront of improving accessibility to services, developing disability, Age Friendly and neurodiverse friendly policies and ensuring as many people as possible can comfortably avail of services. Our libraries provide a vital community service. This is an opportunity to help us to shape the development of your library service over the coming years.” The public is invited to make comments and observations regarding the plan, which can be done online at www.yourcouncil.ie or by emailing [email protected]. The closing date for submissions is Friday 25th September 2020 at 5pm.

*Added on 07/09/20* My Creative Life - Radio and Podcast Series - County Cork Episode

My Creative Life Podcast and Radio Series is a podcast and radio series celebrating creativity in young people across Ireland - from music, circus, writing, to visual art, dance and acrobatics and more. "My Creative Life is made by Grey Heron Media for Creative Ireland and RTEjr Radio. Season 1 was launched to celebrate Cruinniú na nÓg - Ireland's national day of free creativity for children and young people on June 13th 2020 – and has been created from scratch under lockdown in a remarkable remote collaboration between the young people who feature and the team at Grey Heron Media. Seasons One and Two of the Podcast are now all available to listen to on the RTÉ Radio Player - https://www.rte.ie/radio/radioplayer/html5/#/podcasts/series/32225 and the episode for the County of Cork, which has been supported by Cork County Council through the Creative Ireland Programme, will air on RTÉ Jr on 13th October 2020. The Cork County episode features Aodhagán Ó Ríordáin - a 15 year old traditional storyteller from the rural village of Kilnamartyra in the County Cork Múscraí Gaeltacht. ‘Aodhagán loves the challenge of bringing a story to life for the people who gather round to hear it. Through his facial expressions, hand gestures and tone of voice, he enthrals his audience, and they forget about the modern-day lure of phones and social media for a while! For Aodhagán, nothing beats the simple, age old pleasure of making an audience laugh or smile with a story’. Social Media For Series Tags #mycreativelife #mycreativelifepodcast #CreativeIreland Handles - @greyheronmedia @RTEjr @CreativeIrl @rte @LAsIreland (Local Authorities Ireland) Apple - RTE Radio Player - Spotify - Google

*Added on 07/09/20* Ireland's Traditional Music Heritage added to Heritage Maps Information on Ireland’s traditional music heritage is now available on the Heritage Council’s Heritage Maps website, following a collaboration with the Irish Traditional Music Archive (ITMA). For more information visit www.heritagemaps.ie

*Added on 08/09/20* Community Monuments Fund 2020 Under the recent National Jobs Stimulus Package a new Community Monuments Fund is being established through which €900,000 is available for expenditure and drawdown in 2020. The Community Monuments Fund will invest essential capital in our valuable archaeological heritage and help the owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future for the benefit of communities and the public. The core aims of this new Fund are the conservation, maintenance, protection and promotion of local monuments and historic sites. It will: • enable conservation works to be carried out on monuments which are deemed to be significant and in need of urgent support; • encourage access to monuments and improve their presentation; • build resilience in our monuments to enable them to withstand the effects of climate change; The Community Monuments Fund has 3 Streams: 1. Stream 1 will offer grants up to €100,000 for essential repairs and capital works for the conservation of archaeological monuments. 2. Stream 2 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for development of Conservation Management Plans/Reports to identify measures for conservation of monuments and improved public access. 3. Stream 3 will offer grants of up to €30,000 for enhancement of access infrastructure (including COVID protection) and interpretation at archaeological monuments.

Full details of the Fund are set out in the attached Explanatory Memorandum Community Monuments Fund CMF 2020 which should be carefully noted by all applicants. Applications for grants can be made to the Department by Local Authorities for: • projects relating to monuments in public ownership where a clear heritage focus and community or public benefit has been demonstrated, and • projects proposed by a Local Authority on foot of applications from private applicants who are acting as owners or custodians of monuments. Private applicants or community groups who are the owners or custodians of monuments should: complete the application form below (relevant sections only); attach a Method Statement, as appropriate, and submit to Cork County Council on or before 17 September 2020. There will be a quick turnaround in decisions on applications submitted and please note that projects must be completed and monies drawn down by the start of November 2020. CMF 2020- Explanatory Memo Application Please note: parts of Form A must be completed by the Local Authority before submission to the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht. Community groups or private owners should complete only the relevant sections and submit to [email protected] by 16:00 on 17th September 2020.

*Added on 08/09/20* Royal Irish Academy Grants The Royal Irish Academy is pleased to inform that the call for applications for three of the Royal Irish Academy archaeology grant schemes is now live. Links to details on each of the schemes can be found on their website, at the links below and note that the closing date for each of the schemes is 15 October 2020. Research Excavation Grants scheme can be found here: https://www.ria.ie/archaeology-research- excavation-grants Directed Research for World Heritage Sites here: https://www.ria.ie/archaeology-radiocarbon-dates- scheme And Radiocarbon dates scheme here: https://www.ria.ie/archaeology-radiocarbon-dates-scheme

*Added on 09/09/20* Search for Ireland's Heritage Hero 2020 Begins Every year, the Heritage Council seeks nominations for an individual or a group of people who have worked tirelessly to protect and promote heritage. The public are invited to nominate who they feel deserves the award by completing the Heritage Hero nomination form. Nominations close at 12 noon on Friday, 18th September. According to Virginia Teehan, CEO of the Heritage Council: “Heritage Heroes come in different forms: last year, it was the Egan family from County Offaly who worked together to preserve and celebrate their old family homestead, and who have made it a place that people can visit from time to time. Previously, the award has gone to people who work tirelessly in their communities to promote and preserve aspect of local heritage. Ultimately, what makes a heritage hero is their relentlessly investment in heritage: it may be natural heritage, built heritage or in part of our intangible herniate, which comprises everything from skills to language and sport.” The heritage hero award is part of the National Heritage Awards, run annually to celebrate the outstanding projects and events from National Heritage Week. National Heritage Week 2020 ran from 15 – 23 August, and comprised a mix of online, in person and community events and projects. In total, 854 projects and events took place around the country, with many communities celebrating local heritage, for the first time, as part of National Heritage Week.

*Added on 09/09/20* Lissarda Ambush Exhibition

To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Lissarda Ambush there is an exhibition in Independence Museum Kilmurry for the month of September 2020. See poster for full details and note that Public Health Guidelines are in operation.

*Added on 11/09/20* Live Performance and Music Industry Support Packages The Minister for Culture, Arts, Media, Tourism, Sport and the Gaeltacht, Catherine Martin T.D., has recently launched a number of new music and performance support schemes to aid employment in the creative industries given the unprecedented nature of the challenge facing the music and live performance sectors owing to Covid-19 restrictions. An allocation of €5 million is being made available under the “Live Performance Support Scheme” which aims to assist commercial venues, producers and promoters of live performances and provide employment to workers in the creative industries. The scheme will help to de- risk the costs of preparing for new productions which may subsequently have to be postponed, cancelled or curtailed due to restrictions to safeguard public health. The main objective of the scheme is to provide employment opportunities in the ticketed performance sector and allow commercial organisers of live performances to commence preparations immediately and productions to go ahead in the near future while also complying with public health protection measures. This scheme has been developed following consultation with the sector and will be managed directly by the Department. A further support package, the Music Stimulus Package, involves three funding schemes designed to help sustain the popular and commercial music sector across all music genres, including rock, pop, hip hop, indie, jazz, country and western and traditional and folk. Under this package, a fund of €1,000,000 is being put in place to stimulate areas of work which artists would usually fund with income from own sources including live event fees. The music support schemes are targeted at professional musicians and their teams and will support song writing camps, recording and album releases. The aim is to ensure that Irish musicians, engineers, PR, media, agents, labels and publishers can continue to develop and share their work in the context of COVID restrictions. The Music Stimulus Package schemes will be managed on behalf of the Department by First Music Contact and will be subject to peer panel assessment.

Announcing the new measure of support Minister Catherine Martin said: “I am conscious of the unprecedented nature of the challenge facing live performance promoters and producers, not least from a financial point of view and accordingly am pleased to announce this funding response that will assist established commercial venues and promoters to employ performers, artists, technicians, creative and performance support staff up to the end of 2020 in anticipation of the return of audiences to live performance. Further, to help ensure the survival and revival of the music industry in Ireland, I am announcing the introduction of a number of schemes which have been designed to provide incentives for creating new work, the recording of new music from all music genres and the promotion and release of work, which might not otherwise happen in 2020. These schemes will also support the music professionals who work with artists and facilitate music performance, recording and album release.”

Application Form and Guidelines for “Live Performance Support Scheme” may be accessed here.

Application Form and Guidelines for “Music Stimulus Package” may be accessed here.

*Added on 13/09/20* Culture Night 2020 in the County of Cork Culture Night 2020 is taking place on Friday 18th September 2020. With over 25 events and counting taking place throughout the County there will be much to take in and participate in. From the Blackwater Valley Makers and Fermoy Forum in Fermoy, to the Freemason’s Hall in Youghal and the Adult Learning Centre, there is a great range of cultural activity taking place and for more information visit www.culturenight.ie.

*Added on 19/09/20* What Can You Do Today to Help Biodiversity? Biodiversity in Schools has produced a complete toolkit for outdoor learning. Their lesson “To do this month” helps our biodiversity. You could build a log pile or help our bugs, birds, bees and loads more. To find out how you can help go to https://www.biodiversityinschools.com/school-projects.html

*Added on 19/09/20* Irish Ecological Conference - Save the Date The 3rd Irish ecological Association Conference will take place online from 7th -8th January 2021 in University College Cork. Further details at https://www.irishecologicalassociation-conference.org/

*Added on 19/09/20* Farming For Nature Ambassadors 2020 You can now vote for your favourite Farming For Nature story this year. Eight Inspiring farmers with stories of change and working with nature have been put forward out of a selection of ambassadors for 2020. From organic to conventional, from beef to sheep, tillage to mixed farming systems, they range across the four provinces. View their short videos and get voting now for your favourite Farming For Nature Ambassador 2020 by clicking the button below.

View short videos & vote here

Now in its third year, Farming For Nature was set up with an aim to source, share and celebrate the stories of farmers across Ireland who manage their land in a way that sustains nature, while providing a livelihood for their family. Nominations are sought annually from a broad panel of environmental experts and through a rigorous system of interviews, farm visits and assessments by a panel of judges, 16 of these farmers were selected as Ambassadors in 2020. This year’s ambassadors come from right across Ireland and include beef, sheep, horticulture and tillage farmers who manage a wide range of very valuable habitats including species- rich grasslands and heaths, wetlands, woodlands and hedgerows. Their deep knowledge and passion shines through, providing powerful testimony as to how farming and nature can, and must, work in harmony. The intention is that these stories – which also demonstrate that simple actions can make a big difference for the wellbeing of nature and of people - will inspire other farmers to take some small steps to look after their farm’s wildlife. As a society we must recognise that these farmers are deserving of our respect and support: they embody all that’s great about rural Ireland and they offer great hope for practical solutions to the climate and biodiversity crises that we face. The deadline for 2020 voting is midnight Friday October 23rd 2020.

*Added on 19/09/20* Tree Day 1st October 2020 - 1,500 FREE Saplings available for Primary Schools to Plant

The Tree Council of Ireland, supported by Tetra Pak, is calling on primary schools across the country to get involved in Tetra Pak Tree Day and plant a tree on Thursday, 1st October 2020. The theme for this year’s campaign is “Be a Force for Nature” to encourage primary school children around the country to become more active in sustainability and climate issues. Tetra Pak Tree Day is an opportunity for children, teachers and parents to put down the schoolbooks, spend time outdoors and learn to become more environmentally aware. The campaign’s mascot Sammy Squirrel can be found on the back of Avonmore school milk cartons from September with simple tips on how to become more environmentally conscious. As part of this year’s Tetra Pak Tree Day, 1,500 native tree saplings will be made available through the campaign website for primary schools to plant on their school grounds, or in a pot in the classroom. More details on the campaign including new class lessons, videos, information on recycling, food waste and nature walks can be found on www.treeday.ie. Each year Tetra Pak Tree Day places a focus on a different native tree and this year the chosen tree is the Scots Pine or An Giúis, one of Ireland’s few native evergreen trees. The seeds from the Scots Pinecones are one of the red squirrels’ favourite foods and honeybees use the tree’s resinous sap to make propolis or bee glue; a sealant for their hive that also protects them from bacteria and viruses. To find out more about this year’s Tetra Pak Tree Day and to claim a free Scots Pine sapling for your school, visit www.treeday.ie.

*Added on 21/09/20* Exhibition to Commemorate the Centenary of the Capturing of Mallow Military Barracks

On September 28th 1920 Mallow Military Barracks was captured – the only Military Barracks captured nationally during the War of Independence – and a number of reprisals in the town of Mallow were to follow. To mark this event in Cork’s history, the Heritage Committee of Mallow Development Partnership courtesy of Cork County Library Service and Micheál O’Flaherty and team at Mallow Library is holding an Exhibition at Mallow Library from Wednesday 23 September 2020 to 3 October 2020. Library opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday 1000 to 1300 and 1400 to 1730.

*Added on 22/09/20* Illustrated Online Talk: 'The Year 1920 - Irish Trailblazers, National and International' A special lunchtime event, hosted online by Dr Sinéad McCoole, on Tuesday, 22nd September 2020 You are invited to attend this lunchtime lecture, which takes place online next Tuesday, 22nd September, from 1 pm to 2 pm. Admission is free and everyone is welcome. You can log in and join the discussion from 12.55 pm. Click this link to register for the lecture: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5OiSJ7WHTR-pyNLSXwF7sg. Our Speakers are; Dr Kate O’Malley is an Historian with the Royal Irish Academy. She is a graduate of Trinity College, Dublin (BA, PhD). Her most recent publication (with John Gibney and Michael Kennedy) is Ireland: a voice among the nations and Dr. Ann Marie O’Brien is a graduate of Maynooth University (BA, MA) and was awarded her Ph.D. in history from the University of Limerick funded by the Irish Research Council. Her first monograph, ‘The ideal diplomat? Women and Irish foreign affairs, 1946-90’ was published by Four Courts Press in 2020. This event is part of a programme of events to complement 100 Years of Women in Politics and Public Life, 1918 – 2018, a unique pop-up exhibition, curated by Dr McCoole. If you have any questions about Tuesday’s event, you can contact [email protected] (Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht)

*Added on 22/09/20* Cork Folklore Project Newsletter Winter 2020 In these peculiar times, the Cork Folklore Project team, has continued to work hard for the people of Cork to record and share the memories and stories of the city and county, in albeit different ways. They are delighted to now present the new edition of their Newsletter, which will update people on some of the work they have been engaged with over the last while, including their ground-breaking Chronicles of Covid and Oral History for Health Projects. Cork Folklore Project Newsletter Winter 2020

*Added on 25/09/20* 2020 National Archaeological Conference - The Archaeology of Coasts and Islands

The restrictions imposed by Covid-19 will be overcome in October when experts in archaeology and maritime culture and heritage will bring listeners to islands and communities from north Africa to Ireland, Wales, Britain, and even St Kilda, 45 miles west of the Outer Hebrides in Scotland. The National Monuments Service annual conference on archaeological and cultural heritage will go online this year but will cast its net far afield in exploring Land, sea and sky: the archaeology of coasts and islands. Speakers in recorded presentations will explore the concept of the sea as a natural highway bringing sometimes remote communities together, while examining how specific coastal peoples created distinctive maritime identities, heritage and traditions. Voyages of exploration and settlement, sites and features of coastal and intertidal zones, the challenges of recording unique heritage threatened by climate change, islands as refuges for the dispossessed or havens for illicit activities, the legacy and identity of coastal communities of Wales, Scotland, Ireland, England and North Africa and public attitudes to loss of heritage: all these questions and more will be discussed. The conference, Land, sea and sky: the archaeology of coasts and islands, is presented by the National Monuments Service in partnership with the Office of Public Works and organised by Archaeology Ireland. Land, sea and sky: the archaeology of coasts and islands will take place as a series of recorded free-to-view online presentations by eminent researchers, surveyors and boots-on-the-shore archaeologists between 1 and 10 October 2020 on the Archaeology Ireland website, https://archaeologyireland.ie. For details of the conference papers and to register to view go to https://archaeologyireland.ie.

*Added on 02/10/20* Ireland's 31 Local Authorities will carry out over 50 Projects that Promote Biodiversity across the Country First launched in 2018, the Local Authority Biodiversity Grant Scheme supports actions for biodiversity in local areas and is an important element of the overall National Biodiversity Action Plan implementation. Engagement with communities and local authorities is crucial to the implementation of the Plan and the grants help raise awareness of biodiversity issues locally, regionally and nationally. The Scheme is operated by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department and offers funding to assist local authority biodiversity officers (and heritage officers in local authorities without a biodiversity officer) with the implementation of projects that promote actions contained in the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP) 2017-2021. All 31 local authorities have been awarded funding through the Scheme in 2020. Local authorities will use the €696,000 funding awarded this year to carry out over 50 projects that promote actions in the NBAP. Projects supported by the Scheme range from those that aim to increase appreciation of biodiversity and ecosystem services, to projects that support endangered species, and include: • A multiannual project to tackle invasive alien species in County Sligo • Projects to raise awareness of biodiversity in Cavan, Clare, Roscommon and Longford • Surveying of breeding birds in North Bull Island, Dublin, to enhance understanding of the range, number and location of species nesting on the island • A project to assist in the adoption of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan in Galway In the County of Cork over €20,000 has been received towards the Development of Pollinator Plans and a Barn Owl and Swift Nest Box Project. The National Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2021 and its Interim Report is available in English or Irish at https://www.npws.ie/legislation/national-biodiversity-plan

*Added on 02/10/20* Ireland's Virtual History Conference to Mark the Centenary of the Terence McSwiney and the Cork Men's Gaol Hunger Strike - October 8th to 10th 2020

A three-day virtual history conference hosted by University College Cork will mark the centenary of the 1920 hunger strike of Terence MacSwiney and Cork republican prisoners. ‘Terence MacSwiney, Cork Men’s Gaol, and the Political Hunger Strike, 1920-2020’ will be made freely available to the public on the video webinar platform Zoom. Over the course of three days, 30 historians will explore various aspects of the 1920 hunger strike which aroused intense international attention. The event is sponsored by UCC, Cork City Council, and the Department of Art, Heritage, and the Gaeltacht. To register or find out more about the programme, please go to: https://conference.ucc.ie/terence-macswiney%2c-cork-mens-gaol%2c-and-the-political-hunger-strike%2c- 1920-2020/terence-macswiney/Site/Register

*Added on 02/10/20* Difficult Heritage International Conference Online University of Oslo, Norway will host a free online international conference titled ‘Difficult Heritage’ from 5th – 21st October. The lecture on 5th October might be of interest to Irish citizens. Its titled “Turning Difficult Pasts into Socially Engaged Heritage through Transitional Justice: Ireland’s Magdalene Laundries” All talks are via zoom and free/open to the public. For registration go to http://bit.ly/difficultheritage

*Added on 02/10/20* Fáilte Ireland Covid-19 Adaptation Fund Fáilte Ireland have extended their submission deadline from 8th October to 31st October 2020 for applications to help tourism and hospitality businesses offset some of the costs incurred in adapting their premises or operations. This funding may be of interest to the heritage visitor attraction sector. Further information and application criteria available at https://www.failteireland.ie/covid-19-adaptation-fund.aspx

*Added on 02/10/20* Business and Biodiversity Webinar The Irish Forum on Natural Capital Ireland are conducting a study on Irish Business & Biodiversity to examine how Irish businesses can take steps to help halt biodiversity loss. They will host a webinar, with BITC on 6th October where you can learn more about this project and the preliminary findings. Details of this webinar at https://www.naturalcapitalireland.com/post/ifnc-to-co-host-webinar-on-irish-business- biodiversity-on-october-6th-2020-alongside-bitc

*Added on 02/10/20* Oral History Virtual Networking Event The Oral History Network of Ireland will host a Virtual Networking Event – Experiences of Remote Interviewing on Thursday 15th October from 5 – 7pm. This online event offers an informal setting to discuss ideas, talk about past or current projects, get to know other people involved in Oral History and share experiences of and concerns about remote interviewing. Free event but registration is required. To find out more about this event/registration go to https://www.oralhistorynetworkireland.ie/events/ohni-virtual-networking-event-experiences-of-remote- interviewing-thursday-15-october-5-7pm/ They will also host an interactive online ‘Training Workshop – Interview Skills’ on Monday 16th November from 3 – 6pm. This workshop will focus on developing the key skills required to conduct the best possible oral history interview and will explore the relationship between interviewer and interviewee etc. Cost: Non- members €35, Members €25. For further details on this event/registration go to https://www.oralhistorynetworkireland.ie/training-courses/interview-skills/

*Added on 02/10/20* Farming for Nature Bimonthly Newsletter Farming for Nature have published their September-October edition of their newsletter. This publication contains news and upcoming events, offers helpful nature-friendly tips for the farm and shares useful resources, including words of wisdom from our farmers. To read go to https://sh1.sendinblue.com/acy2qhhc1ht7e.html?t=1600767897

*Added on 02/10/20* People and Place: Expression of Shared Heritage The International Council on Monuments & Sites Ireland (ICOMOS) will host, online, the annual Maura Shaffrey Lecture 2020, titled ‘People and Place: Expression of shared heritage through Intangible Cultural Heritage’, with guest speaker Clara Arokiasamy, followed by a response by Virginia Teehan, CEO The Heritage Council, on Thursday 8th October from 6.30 – 7.30pm. Pre-booking for this event is essential. To register go to www.icomosirelandamsl.eventbrite.ie

*Added on 02/10/20* Catchments Catch Up Autumn Newsletter 2020 The most recent edition of the Catchments Catch-Up from the South West Local Authorities Waters Programme Team is available by clicking here

*Added on 08/10/20* 1920 Local Elections Commemorative Booklet This year marks the centenary of the local elections of 1920 which were pivotal in the history of local government in Ireland. To mark these events because of their significance for the struggle for independence, the Dept. of Housing, Local Government & Heritage recently commissioned a publication, titled ‘1920 Local Elections commemorative booklet’, to commemorate the 1920 local elections. If you would like to find out more about this period in our history go to https://www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/attachments/localelections1920_english_web.pdf

*Added on 08/10/20* Business and Biodiversity Survey The Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, along with the Department of Housing and Local Government has commissioned a study on business and biodiversity. They would like to hear from businesses in County Cork to see how they benefit from, and impact on biodiversity, and hear about any actions that they have taken for biodiversity. They are asking businesses to spare 10/12mins to fill out this short survey https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/LYC756/ to help them to understand what companies are doing, or could be doing, and what supports are needed. The deadline for completing the survey is the end of October. To find out more about the project see https://www.naturalcapitalireland.com/post/the-ifnc- launches-a-study-on-business-biodiversity

*Added on 09/10/20* Official Languages Bill (Amendment) 2019 Before the Dáil The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD and the Government Chief Whip and the Minister of State for the Gaeltacht and Sport, Jack Chambers has welcomed the news that the Official Languages Bill is discussed at the second phase in the Dáil won Thursday 8th October 2020 and they have vowed that the Bill would be enacted before the end of the year. Minister Martin said: "I am delighted that the debate regarding the Official Languages Bill (Amendment) 2019 has commenced. While publication of the Bill was welcomed last year, many, including the Language Commissioner and Conradh na Gaeilge, insisted that a stronger Bill was required. This was recognised by the Government and it was promised in the Programme for Government that a stronger Bill would be brought forward and that it would be enacted before the end of the year. Government support has now been received to propose some amendments which will strengthen the Bill and the Minister of State Chambers will later be able to present those amendments to the Dáil. As I've previously stated, it is a great honour for me to be appointed as Minister for the Gaeltacht, and I would like to promote, strengthen and grow our native language, not only in the Gaeltacht, but throughout the island of Ireland. In order to achieve this, the language needs the official support of the State. We all understand that Irish has a particular status in the Irish Constitution, as the first official language of the State. But it is through legislation that the function of this status is exercised and this is the reason that this Bill is so important. I believe that through this Bill, we will be able to create an environment where the provision of services through the Irish language can be improved, appropriately, and will properly serve Ireland's Irish language community." • The Bill allows a statutory Irish Languages Services Advisory Committee to be established to increase and improve the provision of public services through the Irish language. The Government will be proposing that the Advisory Committee be established no later than six months after the Bill has been enacted. • The functions of the Advisory Committee are laid out in the Bill, including the publication of a National Plan with the aim of increasing the amount of public services provided through the medium of Irish. The Government will be proposing that the National Plan be prepared and provided to the Minister no later than two years after being established; • This Bill will see to it that the overall objective is achieved, with 20% of all new recruits in the public service being Irish language speakers. The lack of deadlines for this was the greatest aspect of the Bill which was criticised. The Government will now be proposing that 20% of new recruits in public bodies be competent in the Irish language no later than December 31st 2030. In light of the concern regarding the lack of Irish speakers being available for these roles, the Government will be proposing to allow the Minister to extend this date with an Order, after assessing the results of the first National Plan. This should happen approximately in the year 2028.

Minister of State for the Gaeltacht and Sport, Jack Chambers noted "In addition to this, the Government needs to give additional power to the Language Commissioner in order to monitor provisions in other enactments relating to the use or status of the official language and to provide commentaries in the way that he or she sees fit. This would be progress and it would greatly help Public Bodies to fulfil their duties in terms of the language. Minister Martin and I are of the same mind that this Bill, and the amendments which we will be proposing, are very important to the Irish Language and they will help to strengthen the Irish language in the State System so that high quality Irish language services will be available to the Irish speaking community and the Gaeltacht community’.

*Added on 09/10/20* Draft National Seascape Character Assessment The draft National Seascape Character Assessment was released for consultation on Wednesday 7th October 2020, along with an online survey. The focus of this consultation is on the draft names, boundaries and key characteristics and the draft assessment is available to download at https://emff.marine.ie/blue- growth/project-13-definition-and-classification-ireland%E2%80%99s-seascapes . A number of workshops will be held on the week of Monday 12th October and people feedback can also be submitted via an online survey - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QSWBVYX)

*Added on 09/10/20* 2020 Heritage Council Community Heritage Grants Scheme Hundreds of applications were received by the Heritage Council under the 2020 Community Heritage Grants Scheme. Amongst these were 7 successful applications from the County of Cork with a combined allocation of €39,536. Projects are located in Bere Island, , Cobh, Glenville, , Kilmurry and Mitchelstown.

*Added on 09/10/20* Release of Historic Genealogical Records Online Additional images taken from the Registers of Death for the years 1871 to 1877 are now available to view on the website, www.irishgenealogy.ie. In total, images for 671,599 Death entries have been added to the website meaning over 15.5 million register records are now available to the public to view and research online on the www.irishgenealology.ie website. The records now available online include: • Birth register records – 1864 to 1919 • Marriage register records – 1845 to 1944 • Death register records – 1871 to 1969 Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin, T.D., welcomed this latest release: "This release of death register data by the Civil Registration Service is part of an ongoing partnership between my Department and the Department of Social Protection, Community and Rural Development and the Islands. The aim is to make all of these historic records freely and easily accessible to all members of the public both at home and throughout our Diaspora". Ms T.D., Minister for Social Protection said: “I welcome the addition of these further years of Civil Death register entries. I had the pleasure four years ago of making most of these records available on the www.irishgenealogy.ie website, when I was Minister for the Arts, and it is wonderful to see that the Civil Registration Service of my Department has now nearly made all of these records available to be searched freely online”.

*Added on 14/10/20* Community Monuments Fund 2020 - 3 Successful applications from the County of Cork Heritage has seen significant investment over the past couple of weeks as a direct result of the Covid-19 stimulus package announced during the summer. One such investment has recently been announced in the form of the Community Monuments Fund 2020. The Community Monuments Fund sets out to support the conservation of archaeological structures, in either public or private ownership, and it is envisaged that the scheme will run again early in 2021. In the County of Cork, three projects have been supported under the 2020 Scheme to the sum of €78,365; two of these are in and relate to conservation works at Templebreedy Church and and the third successful application was in respect of Kilgullane Church near Fermoy and the undertaking of a conservation plan for same.

*Added on 14/10/20* National Heritage Budget sees a 51% Increase for 2021 Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, TD, today (14 October 2020) announced details of almost €96m funding allocated for heritage in Budget 2021. This represents an increase of 51% for our heritage on 2020. The total funding for 2021 comprises €42.5m in capital expenditure (an increase of €16.5m or 63% on January 2020) and €53m in current expenditure (an increase of €16m or 43% on January 2020). Announcing this funding, Minister Noonan said, ‘During the past difficult months, our built and natural heritage has provided a lifeline to many. Today’s announcement of €95.5m recognises the vital role played by our heritage in supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of the nation, contributing to biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The funding announced today will support an accelerated programme of conservation, health and safety, visitor and infrastructure projects across the 87,000-hectare National Parks and Reserves network and leverage support for rural employment. We are in the midst of a biodiversity and climate crisis and this funding reflects the Programme for Government response to both these areas. The biodiversity challenge is one of the defining issues of our generation and we all have a part to play. I know farmers want to do their bit so I am delighted that an additional 250 farms are joining the NPWS Farm Plan Scheme. My Department’s built and archaeological capital grant schemes provide over 35,000 days' employment annually to the many small businesses, specialists and tradespeople involved in heritage-related construction activity. They also support the tourism sector that benefits from the huge interest in our heritage. I am delighted to announce €8.3m in funding for these schemes to continue their important work in 2021. An increase to €9.6m in the allocation to the Heritage Council will allow it to deliver targeted supports to heritage organisations and heritage tourism businesses which have suffered as a result of Covid-19. I am very pleased to note that the Council will extend its popular Heritage at the Heart community grants scheme and also introduce a new Inclusive Heritage Programme.” Funding for Heritage comprises €42.5m in capital and €53m in current investment and includes the following: • €29m for National Parks and Wildlife Service and biodiversity. This funding will allow the NPWS to operate accelerated programmes of conservation, health and safety, visitor and basic infrastructure projects. It includes €1.5m to facilitate the clearance of invasive species clearance from 1,950 acres across our sites and will also enable the purchase of more electric and hybrid buses for our National Parks and the provision of sustainable solutions to traffic issues in our sites. • For biodiversity, it will allow the NPWS to expand on its existing programmes of work on nature and habitats protection with farmers and landowners and, as part of an increased NPWS Farm Plan Scheme, will see contracts in place for 250 new farms. There will be an expansion of the NPWS's scientific work, development and implementation of biodiversity policy, and awareness raising. This investment will allow the Department to be ambitious as it leads the development of the next National Biodiversity Action Plan in 2021. • An additional €14m for peatlands restoration and management. Increased funding allows for the restoration of up to 2,500 hectares of protected raised bogs across the midlands region which will benefit biodiversity; contribute to long-term carbon emission reductions and support up to 70 new jobs. Two Peatlands LIFE projects will also commence. • €8.3m for built heritage and archaeological capital grant schemes, supporting the protection and promotion of our much-loved monuments as well as supporting the owners and custodians of historic and protected structures as they carry out hundreds of small-scale, labour-intensive projects to repair and safeguard our built heritage. • €9.6m for the Heritage Council to facilitate targeted supports to heritage businesses and organisations impacted by Covid-19 and to grow its Heritage at the Heart community grants scheme. The Heritage Council will also develop an Inclusive Heritage Programme to ensure equal value is given to the heritage of all elements of our society and to improve access to our heritage for all. Phase 1 will focus on Traveller Heritage and will be developed in partnership with the Traveller community. • €29m for Waterways Ireland to fund the maintenance of critical infrastructure, the extension of Greenway and Blueway routes throughout the navigational network and the development of a new operational base at Tullamore, and improved facilities in Dublin’s Docklands. • €1.15m for the Irish Heritage Trust to develop programmes that share our biodiverse heritage and promote community wellbeing and to initiate a sustainability strategy focused on climate change and carbon neutrality.

*Added on 22/10/20* Funding of Commemorative Projects in County Cork 2020 Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin T.D., recently announced a range of funding supports in the region of €900,000, to support local authorities across Ireland to develop community-led commemorations of the significant historical events of 1920. In recognition of the transformative events that occurred in the City and County €200,000 has been allocated for Commemorations in the County of Cork, with a separate allocation for Cork City. Welcoming the announcement, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said “When commemorating the centenary of the Easter Rising in 2016, we had over 500 community events and initiatives in County Cork. Since then community interest has grown even further in commemorating the War of Independence and Civil War locally. This funding announcement is welcome. It is very important to remember where we have come from and history gives us our sense of place. In County Cork we take an inclusive approach to commemorations, where the past is always present and preserved for future generations. I would like to take this opportunity to commend the work of the county’s commemorative groups.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey commented “Cork County Council’s Commemorative Programme includes a wide range of initiatives. County Cork Commemorations Grant Scheme 2020 is a significant undertaking which will see over €80,000 in funding go to projects by over 50 community groups around the county. Other projects being progressed by Cork County Council include diaspora engagement, school competitions, exhibitions, virtual 3600 commemorative documentaries and oral history projects. Details of these and many other undertakings will be announced soon.” On the Cork County and City Commemorative Programmes, Minister Martin commented “Over the past number of months, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in the cancellation or postponement of public commemorative events in Cork County and City, in accordance with public health measures. This has caused great disappointment to everyone who has worked so hard to develop a very meaningful and significant commemorative programme. Both City and County Councils have redeveloped their plans to account for the restrictions and have come up with imaginative and thought-provoking programmes for the remainder of the year and I am delighted that my Department is contributing significantly to both programmes. I am confident that the events that took place in Cork in 1920 will be remembered in a meaningful, respectful and inclusive way.” See www.corkcoco.ie for more information or email [email protected]

*Added on 22/10/20* Expert Report on Marine Protected Area Expansion Minister Darragh O’Brien T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and Minister of State Malcolm Noonan T.D. today received the final report of an independent advisory group on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The report explores the need to expand Ireland’s MPA network, the benefits and costs of doing so, and how Ireland should go about doing it. A significant finding of the report is that under current legislation many threatened and important marine habitats, species and ecosystems that aren’t covered by the EU Birds and Habitats Directives cannot be afforded the protection necessary to meet Ireland’s international commitments and legal obligations. It also identified the possibility to greatly improve the level of stakeholder engagement and participation in the site selection and management process. Chaired by Professor Tasman Crowe of the UCD Earth Institute, the advisory group comprised 20 experts in life and ocean sciences, marine socio-economics, maritime culture, governance and legislation. It was tasked with providing important technical advice and recommendations on the processes required and the challenges to be addressed in the future expansion of Ireland’s network of MPAs, based on the group’s own work and on the views of a wide range of stakeholders. MPAs are geographically defined maritime areas that provide levels of protection to achieve conservation objectives. They support economic activity associated with the sea by ensuring that activity is kept at a level that ensures the seas and oceans continue to support life and human health. They also help reduce the effects of climate change and ocean acidification. Commenting after receiving the report, Minister O’Brien stated: “Never before have we, as a nation, faced the twin global crises of climate change and accelerating biodiversity loss on land and at sea. This comprehensive report represents a Call for Collective Action on behalf of our people and our natural marine environment, to ensure that we can sustain clean, healthy, diverse and productive oceans and seas around Ireland, both now and in the future. Minister Noonan and I sincerely thank Professor Crowe and his colleagues for providing this valuable and timely report today. The expansion of our network of MPAs is of great importance to us all here in Ireland, not least because the sea is in our blood and supports so many livelihoods and communities, but also because it unlocks future solutions to serious challenges that we face. Not only can MPAs provide us with answers to the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss, they also hold a key to our future - as a maritime nation that’s home to a bountiful and sustainable source of food, green energy and tourism activity for example. In this context, later this year we will be welcoming the views of the public and all stakeholders on this report and the process that lies before us.” Many of the challenges and recommendations set out in the advisory group report link with discussions this week as part of EU Green Week 2020. The annual EU event’s focus this year is on Biodiversity, Nature and a Green Recovery, highlighting biodiversity’s role in supporting and stimulating recovery in a post-pandemic world. Minister Noonan added: “As highlighted over the last number of days at EU Green Week 2020, biodiversity, nature and the green recovery all play a significant role in supporting and sustaining productive and healthy marine ecosystems into the future. This is our ongoing vision for Ireland’s marine environment - one that can not only sustain nature and people and support livelihoods, but also one that brings us together to solve some very real crises of our time.” Minister O’Brien intends to publish the Marine Protected Area Advisory Group’s report for an extensive period of public consultation in late 2020 and early 2021. The report will assist Government in meeting its target of 10% of Ireland’s maritime area to be Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as soon as is practicable, aiming for 30% by 2030. Further details are available at: https://www.housing.gov.ie/water/marine- environment/marine-protected-areas/marine-protected-areas

*Added on 23/10/20* Tomás Mac Curtáin and Terence McSwiney Remembered: To mark the centenary of the deaths of Tomás Mac Curtáin and Terence McSwiney Cork County Council’s Local Studies section has undertaken a commemorative podcast. The presentation, read by Kieran Wyse of Cork County Council’s Library Service, marks the centenary of the tragic loss of these two Cork Lord Mayors during the War of Independence. It looks at the lives and legacies of the two men, at how family members followed in their footsteps and at the homage that history has paid to them. To listen to the presentation visit https://soundcloud.com/user-500658861/maccurtain-macswiney-lord-mayors-of-cork.

*Added on 24/10/20* National Recognition of Independence Museum Kilmurry Independence museum Kilmurry was delighted to learn that they were chosen as the 1st runner up in the 'Best For Families', and the 'Best In Ireland' Categories, in the recent Museums and Me 2020 Series. These awards showcase 'Ireland's favourite family friendly cultural hubs'. They are chosen by the public and the Independence Museum wishes to sincerely thank all of those who took the time to vote for them. ‘It's a lovely honour to get and hopefully will bring more visitors to our museum and community’. See https://twitter.com/museumsandmeirl/status/1311715273217634310?s=21 for more information on these awards.

*Added on 27/10/20* Announcement by Greywood Arts of Upcoming Centre in Killeagh, East Cork

Greywood Arts wants to put creativity at the heart of East Cork

We are delighted to announce that our plans for an arts centre in Killeagh village are coming to fruition. We have raised 75% of the necessary funds to renovate a derelict coach house into a place where artists and the local community can connect, learn and explore the creative process.

All going to plan, renovations will begin in January and we hope to open our doors in autumn 2021. We are thrilled to announce support in the amount of €167,614.46 from the LEADER Programme with the assistance of the South Cork LCDC, the Department of Rural and Community Development and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development. We are grateful to SECAD, who saw the potential for our project and guided us on the path to LEADER funding. We are also pleased to announce additional support of €20,000 from Cork County Council, and €60,000 from a charitable trust. Just over a year ago we shared our vision for artist studios, an arts education room and a flexible event and exhibition space. With planning permission in place, we set our sights on raising the €365,000 needed to replace the roof, floors, doors and windows, add electricity, plumbing and heating, and restore the exterior with heritage materials. We believe meaningful experiences are made through creative engagement. Not only will our expansion allow us to offer ongoing arts classes for children, teens and adults – but will help us increase the scope of our community projects. We frequently collaborate with groups like the active retired, Fóroige, Scouts and local schools and have seen incredible outcomes from participation in our programmes. We believe exploring self-expression helps build self-confidence, as well as collaboration, communication and problem -solving skills. The coach house will also offer space for cultural events like literary readings, screenings, music and other live performances.

*Added on 08/11/20* New Short Film Documenting the Cillliní of West Cork Many are aware of the great work of Teri Kearney and the Skibbereen Heritage Centre on a range of different heritage projects, including a number of videos that have been undertaken documenting many important and historic graveyards in West Cork. A new video has now just been published: ‘Cillíní, also known as 'children's burial grounds', are unofficial burial grounds that are found all over Ireland. Unbaptised babies and young children were buried in them, as were some suicides, strangers whose religion was unknown, convicts, and they were also used by the general population during times of distress, for example the Great Famine of the 1840s. In this short film, Terri Kearney of Skibbereen Heritage Centre visits several cillíní around West Cork and reveals the tragic stories associated with some of them’. The video can be viewed on YouTube by clicking the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R2KyzC3Cotc

*Added on 10/11/20* Military Service (1916-1923) Pensions Collection The Minister for Defence, Mr Simon Coveney, T.D. launched the latest release of material from the Military Service (1916-1923) Pensions Collection online. This latest release of records is the ninth release of material and comprises of 3,383 new files representing 1,170 individuals. This includes applications for service pensions and applications under the Army Pensions Acts linked to disability pensions. In launching this latest release of material online, the Minister said “It gives me great pleasure to make further historical records available to the public through the continued scanning and digitisation of records contained in the Military Service Pensions Collection. This latest release of material, along with previous releases, provides an invaluable source of information that continues to greatly facilitate research around this defining period in Irish history, and captures first-hand accounts of individuals that participated in events of that period.” The ninth release of material is now available to view on www.militaryarchives.ie

Origins and scope: The archives contained within the Military Service Pensions Collection were once active administrative files generated through legislation enacted by the newly formed Saorstát Éireann from June 1923. In post-conflict conditions, various legal acts were sanctioned to compensate members of certain organisations and their widows, children and dependents. Over time, legislation was enhanced and broadened to include more veterans, including the members of Cumann na mBan. Two streams of legislation are relevant for the Military Services Pensions Collection: - The Army Pensions Acts, from 1923 to 1953: dealing with the wounded participants and deceased participants’ dependents. - The Military Service Pensions Acts, 1924, 1934, 1949: dealing with the surviving participants who could prove active service. Applicants were assessed by the Army Pensions Board, a Board of Assessors and later by a Referee and an Advisory Committee. The files are the result of the verification process and contain material submitted by the applicants in respect of their claims. A Guide to the Military Service Pensions Collection is available to download on the Military Archives website.

*Added on 10/11/20* to Newport News U.S.A. (1621) - A 400th Anniversary Webinar on Ireland-Virginia Connections

Organised by Dr. Hiram Morgan, U.C.C. an exciting commemorative webinar takes place on Saturday 21st November recognizing the establishment of Newport News 400 years ago in Virginia - and the County Cork connection with same. The day, which has been supported by Cork County Council, features a great line-up of speakers and will commence with an address by the Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley. For those looking to watch the webinar, send an email to [email protected] and see the above poster for more details.

*Added on 11/11/20* Kilmichael Ambush - Story of a Century

In the absence of a public Centenary Commemoration for the Kilmichael Ambush, due to Covid-19 restrictions, Coppeen Archaeological, Historical and Cultural Society has decided to produce a commemorative online programme to be broadcast on Facebook on Thursday 26th Nov. This will be a mix of interviews with world-renowned historians, film footage, images, sound clips and narration with significant thanks to Colum and Shane Cronin. The Society is taking a fresh look at the ambush story, primarily from a local perspective and plans to present a fitting programme to mark this momentous, history-changing event. For those seeking to be present for the event simply go to the Facebook page (@coppeenheritage) where all the info is updated daily.

*Added on 12/11/20* Heritage Council Welcomes Appointment of New Board Members The Heritage Council has welcomed the announcement by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, TD of the appointment of its new board. The newly appointed members of the board are: • Michael Farrell • John Patrick Greene • Sammy Leslie. • Fionnuala May. • Deirdre McDermott. • Martina Moloney. • Dr Patricia O’Hare. • John G Pierce. • Sheila Pratschke. • Dr Mary Tubridy. Michael Parsons is to remain as chair of the board.

Commenting, Mr Parsons said: “On behalf of the Heritage Council, I welcome the Minister’s appointment of our new board members. The Heritage Council received a significantly increased budget allocation for 2021, which will enable us to fulfil a very busy work programme next year, which includes the reinstatement of the community grants scheme and the development of a new ‘inclusive heritage’ programme. These appointees bring a wealth of experience and skills that are very valuable to the work of the Heritage Council and I very much look forward to working with them, harnessing their ideas and energy to deliver for heritage in the coming years. I would also like to thank the outgoing board members for their hard work, vision and commitment to Ireland’s heritage.”

*Added on 12/11/20* Heritage Council Celebrates 25th Anniversary Heritage is at the heart of Irish communities and shapes our identity, not just as a nation, but also as a society. That’s according to chief executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan, speaking as the Heritage Council marks its 25th anniversary. Established in 1995 as a result of the Heritage Bill that was introduced by then Minister for Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht, Michael D. Higgins, it promotes interest, education, knowledge, and pride in our heritage. It reaches into communities across the country by working with groups such as public authorities, educational bodies, youth groups, and many other organisations. In doing this, it promotes a knowledge and appreciation of built, natural and cultural heritage, such as monuments, archaeological objects, architectural heritage, flora and fauna, heritage gardens, wildlife habitats, seascapes, wrecks, geology, traditional skills and past times, to name but a few areas. The Heritage Council also provides policy advice for Government on heritage issues such as sustainability, landscape management, high nature value farming, forestry, and climate change. Paying tribute to President Michael D Higgins for his role in establishing the Heritage Council, Ms Teehan said: “He had the vision of bringing our heritage into our homes, our hearts and our communities.” She added: “Our heritage is precious. It is invaluable to the country’s economic wellbeing, but also to the wellbeing of every Irish resident. Heritage plays a huge part in our tourism sector, and in turn in our economy. While we have always appreciated how important it is to our individual, physical, mental, and social wellbeing, this has never been more obvious than during the current pandemic, when the restrictions brought a new focus on the hidden heritage in our local areas. “The Heritage Council has achieved so much over the past 25 years in highlighting the value of our heritage. We continually build new relationships with communities across the country, through voluntary groups, schools, local and national government, and the national cultural institutions to develop a wide understanding across society of the value of our heritage and building capacity for organisations and communities to continue their heritage work’. Standout initiatives include: • The heritage officer programme, which has resulted in a heritage officer role in most local authorities across the country. • The Heritage in Schools programme is marking its 20th anniversary this year. For primary school children, it aims to generate greater awareness, respect, interest in and appreciation of our heritage among 4-12-year-olds by encouraging teachers and pupils to engage with their local heritage in a hands-on, interactive and meaningful way through place-based learning and learning in the outdoor classroom. • The Museum Standards Programme for Ireland was established in 2007 and benchmarks and promotes professional standards of care in collections in the Irish museum sector. • Also established in 2007, the National Biodiversity Data Centre collects and manages data on Ireland’s biodiversity to document our wildlife resource and to track how it is changing over time. • In 2008, the Strategic Archaeological Research [INSTAR] Programme was launched. This research and funding programme supports Irish archaeology projects, promotes collaboration and partnerships, and features an online archaeology resource. • In 2009, we partnered with the National Monuments Service to publish the Brú na Bóinne Research Framework project, which assesses knowledge of and research into the UNESCO World Heritage Site and proposes a strategy for future research with a view to sustainable management. • National Heritage Week is the jewel in the crown. This year, despite the COVID-19 restrictions, more than 770 heritage groups and enthusiasts took part in National Heritage Week, when we innovated to create an online project-based initiative. • We have also provided heritage grants over the years, including buildings; thatch; biodiversity; museums and archives publications, and communities.

Ms Teehan added: “Protection and promotion of our heritage is vitally important. It allows us to better understand who we are and how we got here. Critically, it helps us to make informed decisions on where we are going. To this end, the Heritage Council’s role in advising the Government on heritage issues such as sustainability, landscape management, high nature value farming, forestry, and climate change is proving to be increasingly important.” This year has been a difficult one for the heritage sector, with COVID-19 restrictions having a deep impact as a result of closures, job losses, delays and increased home working. A Heritage Council survey conducted in April 2020 found that two-thirds of heritage sector workers suffered loss or postponement of work due to COVID-19; more than half (51%) experienced postponement or cancellation of events, and 52% had experienced temporary closure. Some 46% had experienced a lack of revenue streams. Commenting, Ms Teehan said: “We are very appreciative of the significant increase in the Council’s budget for next year. This commitment by Government will allow us to reinstate the community grants scheme and to develop a new ‘inclusive heritage’ programme, which aims to encourage diversity and inclusivity in heritage practice. With the support and engagement of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, we are also identifying additional budgets that can be frontloaded into supports for heritage NGOs that have sustained significant losses due to COVID-19. This funding recognises the role that heritage plays in supporting local economies and recognises the work of communities.” Chairman of the Heritage Council, Michael Parsons said: “When the Heritage Council was established in 1995, the concept of heritage was still generally broken up into disciplines such as archaeology and wildlife. Roles such as the local authority heritage officer did not exist. These are now funded by the Heritage Council and play a central role in promoting heritage locally. A quarter of a century later, the Heritage Council has established a wide-ranging network of collaborators - both individuals and organisations - which has made our understanding and appreciation of our heritage all the richer. I am very proud of what the Heritage Council has achieved over the past 25 years and I look forward to welcoming our new board members over the coming weeks to set the foundations for the coming years.”

*Added on 12/11/20* Minister Welcomes Release of over 1,200 Hares back into the Wild The Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O Brien TD has welcomed the release of some 1270 previously captured hares back into the wild by clubs affiliated to the Irish Coursing Club (ICC). The Department had been in communication with the ICC over recent weeks seeking to secure the release of hares that they were holding for future coursing meetings. Currently, coursing activities have been suspended under COVID-19 level 5 restrictions. In terms of the welfare and conservation of a protected species, the Department formally requested the ICC to release all captive hares given that, by December 1st, the current duration of level 5 restrictions, hares would have been held in captivity for at least six weeks, and in some cases for much longer. It is also not clear at what point after December 1st it may be permissible for coursing to recommence. Minister O’Brien commented: “There have been some claims that my intervention in seeking the release of hares would result in them being hunted illegally by others. It has been claimed that this measure will make it easier for illegal hunters, as they would now know the location of high numbers of hares. I would point out that after every coursing meeting hares are released in any case, and these hares were in the wild until recent weeks. Hares are a protected species, and are better off being in the wild rather than being held in captivity in large groups. I see no reason why they should have been held for the duration that coursing was suspended. As well as that, the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department and the Garda Síochana have taken a number of prosecutions in relation to illegal hunting of hares in recent years and along with my colleague Minister of State Malcolm Noonan, I recently announced the establishment next year of a Wildlife Crime Unit in the National Parks Service of my Department. This will put a greater focus on the issue of wildlife crime including the illegal hunting of hares. Finally, there have been a number of erroneous claims on social media that the National Park and Wildlife Service publish the release locations of hares by ICC clubs. That is absolutely not the case and such claims are misleading and designed solely to serve an agenda supporting the retention of the hares in continuing captivity,” he concluded. Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD, added: “A dedicated Wildlife Crime Unit will ensure a strategic and standardised approach to dealing with illegal persecution of wildlife. We would continue to urge members of the public to report any suspected incidents where hares are being illegally hunted.”

*Added on 14/11/20* Communities Caring for Water Conference This year’s Irish Rivers Trust and LAW Programme’s conference titled Communities Caring for Water on Saturday 28th November from 9am – 12.30pm is going digital and is free and accessible to any Rivers Trust or LAWPRO community group employee or volunteer. It will provide important updates, guidance and inspiration to those working to protect and conserve rives on the island of Ireland. To register for this online event, go to https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/communities-caring-for-water-in-ireland-registration- 128271839525

*Added on 14/11/20* 'Putting Town Centres First' The Heritage Council have launched its first ever podcast series ‘Putting Town Centres first’. This new series aims to raise awareness and understanding of key issues now confronting our historic town centres and explores the antiquity of our towns in a time of Covid-19. Further information available at https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/podcast-series-putting-town-centres-first

*Added on 14/11/20* 'The Kinsale Record' Volume 28 of the Kinsale Record has been published and is available in many outlets through Kinsale, retailing at €10. Volume 28 features many great articles and provides a great insight into the fascinating heritage of Kinsale.

*Added on 14/11/20* SPAB Ireland Maintenance Week 2020 The SPAB (Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) Annual Maintenance Week campaign reminds anyone who looks after a building - regardless of its age, type or purpose - of the simple, achievable steps they can take to prepare it for the worst that winter can bring. This year, from November 20th-27th, SPAB Ireland are promoting the importance of basic building maintenance by hosting a number of free online events to help owners and users get to know their old buildings better and take practical action to look after them. SPAB Ireland will also be posting videos and tips on social media every day on how to maintain your building so keep an eye on the hashtag #IrishMaintenanceWeek To kick things off on Friday 20th November at 12pm, Jamie McNamara (SPAB Trustee and SPAB Ireland Guardian) will be giving a lunchtime lecture on general maintenance issues and pitfalls to avoid, entitled, ‘Maintenance Matters in Ireland’. During Maintenance Week, SPAB Ireland will be giving two lectures in conjunction with the Lurgan Townscape Heritage Scheme of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. On Tuesday 24th November at 7.30pm, Lisa Edden (consulting structural engineer and co-author of Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht (DoCHG) Advice Series, ‘A Guide to the Repair of Historic Roofs’, will be speaking about roof and chimney maintenance, in a lecture titled ‘Maintaining Chimneys and Other Lofty Building Elements’. Following this, Wednesday 25th November at 7.30pm, Susan Roundtree (RIAI Conservation Architect & co- author of DoCHG’s Advice Series, ‘A Guide to the Repair of Historic Brickwork’) will be speaking about ‘Maintaining Historic Brickwork’. All lectures will be available online for free, but booking in advance is essential through the SPAB website https://www.spab.org.uk/whats-on/online-learning. If you cannot watch the talk live, it will be available to playback at your leisure for one week after the event, as long as you register prior to the event starting. SPAB Ireland are delighted to welcome Maggie Molloy of Cheap Irish Homes on RTE and @cheapirishhouses on Instagram in supporting Maintenance Week this year. ‘When you own an old building you become part of a story that has woven itself in and out through generations of Irish life. You become a caretaker of sorts, to an endangered species. If you do it right, the story continues. If you listen & learn, the show carries on. Something as simple as maintenance can mean the difference between a house staying habitable & it falling derelict. And whether you own, or simply reside in an old house, there are things everyone can do.” - Maggie Molloy The Irish branch of the UK’s oldest conservation charity, SPAB (The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings) supports the maintenance of all buildings; in the words of SPAB founder William Morris, ‘Stave off decay with daily care’. For any questions email: [email protected] and to stay up to date on SPAB Ireland's activities sign up to the monthly newsletter at http://eepurl.com/dqImSb.

*Added on 14/11/20* Henry Ford and Son: The Cork Connection - by the Local Studies Department of Cork County Council's Library and Arts Service The Ford Motor Assembly plant in Cork holds special memories for both the workforce and the general population of the city. For over 60 years Fords was a way of life as well as a business concern and this podcast is based on an exhibition that was put together by Cork County Library’s Local Studies Department in 2017 to mark the centenary of the company’s arrival in Cork. With thanks to Kieran Wyse and Rory Bunce, all those with an interest in County Cork’s connection with Ford will find this a fascinating listen: https://soundcloud.com/user-500658861/henry-ford-son-the-cork-connection

*Added on 14/11/20* Recording and Addressing Persecution and Threats to our Raptors Ireland’s native birds of prey are part of our natural heritage, key indicators of the health of our ecosystems and important assets in attracting tourists to come and stay in Ireland. High profile raptor poisoning or persecution incidents have been documented in the media. For example Hen Harriers shot in Kerry, a White- tailed Eagle shot in Tipperary, attempted poisoning of Peregrine Falcons in Dublin and numerous poisonings of Red Kites in Wicklow. There are however many other cases that are not highlighted in the media and for the past five years Government agencies have been systematically determining how great an issue poisoning and persecution is for Ireland’s native raptors. This has been made possible by a cooperative approach between the National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS), the Regional Veterinary labs and State Lab who collectively produced a formal protocol for investigating bird of prey deaths in 2011. This is known as the RAPTOR (Recording and Addressing Persecution and Threats to Our Raptors) protocol. This protocol entails a significant amount of effort between three Government Departments, from collecting and handling carcasses, injured birds and evidence, to x-rays, Post-Mortem examinations, toxicological testing and follow- up investigations, data analysis, interpretation and reporting. Statistics from 2007 to 2019 have just been published in a report, available to download by visiting https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/IWM126.pdf. The report finds that during this time period, a total of 338 incidents were confirmed and recorded on the RAPTOR database. ‘Those incidents were comprised of 214 incidents involving poison (poison in the system or poisoned bait), 58 incidents involving shooting, one trapping and one mutilation, in addition to 57 road collision incidents, six wind turbine strike incidents, three ‘traumatic death’ incidents, two disturbance incidents, two fence collision incidents and one powerline collision incident’. Between 2007 and 2019 County Cork had the fifth highest number of incidents on a county basis, behind, and in order; Wicklow, Tipperary, Kerry and Dublin.

*Added on 18/11/20* Disaster Advice Seminar and Launch of Publication

A seminar to mark the launch of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s Advice Series publication, Disaster: A guide to prevention and preparedness in the historic built environment will take place on Wednesday 9th December from 10:00 to 12:30. The purpose of the seminar is to help owners and custodians of an historic property, where possible, to prevent or reduce the risk of disaster striking their property by fire, floods, storms, lightening strikes or vandalism, and to lessen the damage caused should disaster occur. The seminar will outline how an owner can produce a disaster risk management plan (or ‘Disaster Plan’), a simple document setting out sensible measures to minimise the likelihood of an emergency and to reduce the extent of damage and loss should it occur. The seminar is free of charge but advanced registration is required. Please go to the Irish Georgian Society’s website (https://www.igs.ie/events/disaster-advice-seminar)for more information on the programme and how to join the seminar which will be delivered live online through Zoom.

*Added on 20/11/20* Heritage Council launches new Publication on Ireland's Prehistoric Rock Art

When it comes to knowledge of Ireland’s prehistoric art, the megalithic art of Ireland’s world-renowned passage grave cemeteries, Newgrange and Knowth in the Boyne Valley, have dominated. However, you do not have to travel to Meath to experience Ireland’s rich rock art – it can be found on rock surfaces and outcrops throughout the island. Irish prehistoric rock art is the subject of a new, richly illustrated booklet published by the Heritage Council. Written by archaeologist, Clare Busher O’Sullivan, ‘Rock Art’ explores the art form; where it can be found; what it means; and how it can be protected. Rock art is carved, drawn, painted, engraved, or incised imagery on natural rock surfaces. This art is found world-wide in various forms and from different periods, and includes the cave paintings of southern France and northern Spain, the passage tomb art of the Neolithic and the many examples of Bronze Age rock art in Atlantic Europe. Ireland is home to ‘open-air’ Atlantic rock art, a carving practice that was widespread across Atlantic Europe, including in Scotland, England, France, Spain and Portugal. Unlike megalithic art, which is associated with monuments, open-air Atlantic rock art is typically found on boulders and outcrops. The Atlantic tradition dates to the Later Neolithic / Early Bronze Age period (c3000-1500 BC). In Ireland, examples of this ancient art can be found in clusters in Carlow / Wicklow; Louth / Monaghan, Fermanagh and Donegal. However, the densest concentration can be found in the Cork / Kerry region. Commenting, the publication author Clare Busher O’Sullivan said: “In Ireland, the most common motif in Atlantic rock art is the ‘cup-mark’, which is a circular human-made depression in the rock surface. The cup- mark is often surrounded by one or more concentric rings. The art is referred to in Ireland and Britain as ‘cup and ring art’. The rock art is located in rural landscapes, often in open valleys or the foothills of mountains and almost always in close proximity to water sources.” She added: “There are many theories to explain the purpose and the significance of Atlantic rock art, but they are difficult to confirm due to its abstract nature and prehistoric date. Some researchers believe that the placement of rock art marks boundaries and routeways within prehistoric landscapes, while another theory is that rock art marks places of worship and pilgrimage in prehistoric society. However, there is no definitive explanation for the art.” An element of archaeological heritage, rock art is protected under the National Monuments Act. Perhaps one of the best-known examples of open-air rock art in Ireland is the Boheh stone in Co Mayo, from which on 18th April and between 22nd and 24th August, the sun can be seen to set on the summit of Croagh Patrick and then roll down the northern shoulder of the mountain. The Boheh stone is a national monument in State care. In recent years, archaeological surveys and receding blanket peat have revealed several previously unrecorded rock art panels throughout Ireland, most notably on the Iveragh Peninsula in Co Kerry. Meanwhile, more than half of the known examples of rock art from Louth / Monaghan occur at Drumirill townland in Co Monaghan. Many rock art examples in County Cork are scattered on the Mizen Peninsula. Head of Conservation at the Heritage Council, Ian Doyle added: ‘While this form of open-air art is widely known to archaeologists, it is not well known to the general public. We hope that this publication on Atlantic rock art will bring this internationally important but enigmatic form of prehistoric art to a wider consciousness and that walkers and landowners will be able to identify more of it and be aware of the need to care for it. This new publication also includes the ‘Rock Art Code’, which provides guidance for members of the public visiting rock art sites and interacting with decorated panels, and the landowners.”

The Rock Art booklet can be found on the Heritage Council website www.heritagecouncil.ie. Information on visiting rock art locally can be found on the Historic Environment Viewer on www.archaeology.ie.

*Added on 21/11/20* Survey on Museum Engagement during and post Covid-19 The Irish Museums Association (IMA) has published the Report arising from the Teachers’ survey on museum engagement during and post Covid-19 carried out between 18 September and 18 October 2020, aimed to inform and support the wider culture and heritage education sectors. Overwhelmingly, responses demonstrated the high value placed on school-museum partnerships and the appetite to develop these further. While almost 50% indicated they had not previously availed of online museum resources, 96% indicated they are likely to avail of remote museum programmes or resources for their classroom in addition to, or as an alternative to, a physical museum visit in the future. However, continued uncertainty over closure of museums within early levels of restrictions remain a concern. Despite the huge difficulties faced by all in 2020, museums have remained highly active and programming has focused on creating opportunities for audiences of all ages to realise their creative potential along with gaining new knowledge and skills. This survey clearly demonstrates how museums have successfully continued to find ways to inspire and engage with younger audiences. A meeting to present findings and discuss actions and recommendations, hosted by IMA Chair (and Head of Collections & Learning, NMI) Dr Audrey Whitty, is scheduled for next Thursday 26 November from 9.30 - 10.30 am. The pre-registration link is https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAqdOuupjgqE9O82VU2- V23nN16VJfvU2vH.

*Added on 22/11/20* Cork County Council Genealogy Podcast Find out how to trace your family's land or property records in this week's podcast. Karen O'Riordan of Cork County Council’s Library Service provides an introduction to Griffith’s Valuation which was conducted for the island of Ireland in the mid-19th century. This is followed by a brief overview of the Cancelled or Revision books which have their origins in Griffith’s Valuation and run up to the latter half of the twentieth century. The Tithe Applotment Books which were compiled between 1823 and 1837 consist primarily of occupiers of agricultural holdings in excess of one acre of land. Finally, there is an outline of possibilities if your ancestor lived or worked on a landed estate, with an introduction to the website landedestates.ie. Listen now at https://www.corkcoco.ie/en/library-online/library-podcasts. If you are only beginning to trace your family history, listen to our previous podcast 'Why can't I find my ancestors' and read our helpful online guide 'Walking in the footsteps of my ancestors' https://epublishbyus.com/ebook/10048255/html/index.html. As always, if you have any questions while tracing your family tree, contact the Local Studies Library by email at [email protected] or phone 021-4285640 from Monday-Friday - 10am to 5.30pm.

*Added on 23/11/20* Virtual Spirit of Mother Jones Festival 27-30 November 2020 Cork Mother Jones Committee commemorates the 90th Anniversary of the death of Mother Jones on November 30th, 1930 with an online Spirit of Mother Jones Festival. According to Jim Nolan, spokesperson “Mother Jones survived at least 3 pandemics so we felt we had to make a very special effort to have a festival in spite of lockdowns and Covid-19, to commemorate the anniversary of her death. Our Cork Mother Jones Committee voluntary members have put in huge work to bring this festival to everyone. For the first time, it will literally be seen around the world. We have received special recorded tributes from Mount Olive and Chicago which will be shown. I also want to thank Frameworks Films for their massive contribution, our speakers, sponsors in the trade union movement, the Community and Civic Outreach in UCC and the Cork City Council Heritage Dept. We are grateful to all. Enjoy the festival’.

The festival opens on Friday afternoon 27th November when in partnership with University College Cork Civic & Community Engagement the role of the front line workers and the trade unions during the Covid-19 pandemic will be discussed. This will feature union leaders and workers such as Phil Ni Sheaghdha of the INMO and Anne Piggott of the ASTI. A documentary And The World Turns Away features a discussion with author and documentary film maker Peadar King who speaks about the devastating impact of war on ordinary people and their communities as detailed in his recent book War will also be shown. Several talks from the Spirit of Mother Jones festival archives will also be shown featuring Margaret Aspinall (Hillsborough Family Support Group) and Chris Mullin (Error of Judgement) and brave Cork woman Louise O’Keeffe. The festival will streamed throughout the weekend on www.corkcommunitytv.ie and the full festival programme, dates and times and streaming links will appear on www.motherjonescork.com or Facebook @MotherJonesCork.

*Added on 26/11/20* Save the Date - National Heritage Week 2021 (August 14th to 22nd) The Heritage Council is delighted to confirm that National Heritage Week 2021 will take place from Saturday, 14th August to Sunday, 22nd August 2021. Adapting to this year's circumstances was no easy feat but the energy and commitment of the 750+ project organisers who create heritage projects this year ensured that Heritage Week remained a vibrant celebration of Ireland's heritage. As a result of the creativity and passion heritage enthusiasts brought to this year's initiative, National Heritage Week 2021 will retain the project element that was introduced this year. More details on National Heritage Week 2021 will be available in the new year - including next year's theme. In the meantime, projects from this year's National Heritage Week will remain available online for you to browse.

*Added on 26/11/20* Kilmichael 100 Years

Kilmichael Ambush Centenary Commemoration is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting to take place at 7 p.m. Saturday 28 November 2020 - Address by Jack Lane, Aubane Historical Society “Lessons of the Kilmichael Ambush and reflections on the War of Independence” Join Zoom Meeting: https://scanner.topsec.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fus05web.zoom.us%2Fj%2F81934198589..&d=9 65&t=c8253e9d8f547037b1905dcc0a920b5e56c96c4a. Meeting ID: 819 3419 8589 Passcode: 8dYefp

Following the talk that evening, at 21:00 a Public Meeting on the Centenary of the Kilmichael Ambush is being held, arranged by Niall Meehan. All welcome, just click the zoom link https://scanner.topsec.com/?t=298d988a6cb62dd45a2bdbd4703602976648b3f9&u=https%3A%2F%2 Fus02web.zoom.us%2Fj%2F83980498436&d=965> and if you use Facebook, go to this event: https://scanner.topsec.com/?t=5b02286cc8d3509146767046f2e8587946060c6e&u=https%3A%2F %2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fevents%2F281268799586977%2F&d=965 and register for this commemoration of the Kilmichael Ambush.

In 2021, once permissible under public health guidance, the Crossbarry and Kilmichael Commemoration Committee intends to host a large commemorative gathering at Kilmichael and further details will be provided closer to date the date. To mark the centenary this year the committee has undertaken a video, available on facebook by visiting https://scanner.topsec.com/?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F1582924117%2Fvideos%2Fpcb.1 0217257934952078%2F10217257927631895&t=2029c1853ef3faa12e801bd31014831437c0decb&d=965

*Added on 26/11/20* Documentaries remembering the War of Independence in County Cork Cork County Council has undertaken two documentaries as part of its Decade of Centenaries Commemorative Programme to remember The Kilmichael Ambush and two of Cork’s revolutionaries, Tomás MacCurtáin and Terence McSwiney. The documentary videos, supported by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, will be released on Cork County Council’s YouTube channel on Friday, November 27th. November 28th, 2020 marks the centenary of the Kilmichael Ambush, a pivotal event in the War of Independence for Cork County and City and for the emerging nation as a whole. The ambush, led by Tom Barry as commander of the West Cork Brigade’s Flying Column, saw 20 fatalities, one of the highest number of casualties at any singular event in Ireland during the War of Independence. Tomás MacCurtáin and Terence McSwiney both held the office of the Lord Mayor of Cork City. While holding the office, MacCurtáin was assassinated by the Royal Irish Constabulary, and McSwiney, his successor and friend, died in prison on hunger strike in protest at his internment and trial as a civilian by a military court. These events sent shockwaves throughout the world and would influence future revolutionaries such as Mahatma Gandhi. The documentary will explore the ties of these important figures to the County of Cork. Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the new documentaries, “The wealth of cultural heritage in Cork County that we have today is thanks to generations of historians, archaeologists and ordinary people whose dedicated work throughout the years has enriched our understanding of our history. While these commemorations acknowledge the contributions of great individuals like Tomás MacCurtáin, Terence McSwiney and Tom Barry, it’s important we remember the significant community and voluntary work that has gone into enabling us, one hundred years later, to continue to learn about our history. Cork County Council’s Commemorations Committee and Commemoration Grant Schemes will continue to support this work, so that future generations, both at home and our diaspora across the globe, will benefit from these resources and connections to our past. This year, circumstances sadly prevent us from coming together physically in commemoration. These videos will bring us together while apart and inform our understanding of our shared history and heritage”. Cork County Council is also proud to support The Crossbarry and Kilmichael Commemoration Committee in delivering a commemoration event over Zoom at 7:00pm on Saturday, November 28th 2020. The talk will feature Jack Lane of Aubane Historical Society delivering “Lessons of the Kilmichael Ambush and reflections on the War of Independence” followed by an online public meeting at 9:00pm. Those interested in taking part can find the links to the meetings on the Heritage Section of the Cork County Council Website

*Added on 29/11/20* Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Historic Structures Fund (2021) Cork County Council in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage are inviting applications for grant funding under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and Historic Structure Fund 2021. The Conservation Office for Cork County Council will administrate the scheme which relates to buildings that are contained in the Record of Protected Structures and in Architectural Conservation Areas. The deadline for submission of completed applications for both the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structure Fund is 4pm on the 29th of January 2021.

Built Heritage Investment Scheme 2021. Project supports will range from a minimum of €2,500 to a maximum of €15,000 per application. This scheme will support small-scale conservation projects and support the employment of skilled and experienced conservation professionals, craftspeople and tradespersons in the repair of the historic built environment. 1. BHIS Application Form 2021 (pdf) 2. BHIS Application Form 2021 (doc) 3. BHIS Circular 2021 (pdf)

Historic Structure Fund 2021 The primary focus of the Historic Structures Fund will be on conservation and enhancement of historic structures and buildings for the broader benefit of communities and the public. 1. Stream 1 will offer grants from €15,000 up to €50,000 and is aimed at essential repairs and smaller capital works for the refurbishment and conservation of heritage structures. 2. Stream 2 will offer a small number of grants from €50,000 up to €200,000 for larger enhancement, refurbishment or reuse projects involving heritage structures, where a clear community or public benefit has been demonstrated. 3. Pilot Stream for Vernacular Structures - In the context of the forthcoming strategy for built vernacular, a pilot stream for vernacular structures is being introduced for 2021, with funding of €50,000. The purpose of the stream is to support conservation repairs and small capital works to vernacular structures that are not listed in local authority Records of Protected Structures or otherwise legally protected. Such structures may be located within an Architectural Conservation Area. All local authorities can apply for funding for specific projects of between €5,000 and €10,000 for eligible projects. 4. Pilot Stream for Historic Shopfronts – To incentivise the conservation of historic shop fronts, each Local Authority is invited to submit an additional application under Stream 1 for eligible essential repairs and small capital works for the refurbishment and conservation of historic shop facades, windows, signage and other associated details to safeguard them and keep them in use. 5. Irish Language Shopfronts - Each Local Authority is invited to make an additional application under Stream 1 for essential repairs and small capital works for the refurbishment and conservation of historic Irish-language shop facades, windows, signage and other associated details to safeguard them and keep them in use. This is in addition to the additional application already permitted under this stream for other shopfronts. The relevant application forms are as follows; 1. HSF Application Form 2021 (pdf) 2. HSF Application Form 2021 (doc) 3. HSF Circular 2021 (pdf)

Submission of Applications: Please note that multiple applications for the same structure under the Historic Structures Fund and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme will not be considered in 2021. Applications may be made as follows; 1. Hard copies are to be addressed to the Built Heritage Investment Scheme or Historic Structure Fund, Conservation Office, Floor 3, Planning Department, County Hall, Cork. 2. If you wish to submit your application by email please contact [email protected] and/or [email protected] for details of the same. The deadline for submission of completed applications is 4pm on the 29th of January 2021. Late applications and/or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley says, “The County of Cork is steeped in heritage and not least when it comes to our built heritage. Our protected structures and historic buildings are part and parcel of our identity. Our built heritage needs continued maintenance and investment to ensure its safeguarding for future generations. These schemes will see continued investment in the County’s built heritage in 2021 and are of significant benefit to County Cork.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, notes new Pilot funding schemes added this year, saying “Cork County Council recognises the value of our rich heritage here in County Cork and supports and promotes conservation. A Pilot Stream for Vernacular Structures, introduced for 2021, supports conservation repairs and small capital works to structures not listed in the Records of Protected Structures or otherwise legally protected. Funding of between €5,000 and €10,000 is available for eligible projects. A new Pilot Stream for Historic Shopfronts and Irish Language Shopfronts will incentivise their conservation and help ensure the protection of our historic shop facades, windows and signage that give Cork County towns such character.” The deadline for submission of completed applications for both the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and the Historic Structure Fund is 4pm on the January 29th, 2021. See Funds and Grants List on YourCouncil.ie or further details.

*Added on 30/11/20* Documentary 'The Hunger' based on the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine and new Website A major two-part documentary ‘The Hunger’ based on the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine will broadcast tonight, Monday 30 November and Monday 7 December at 9:30pm on RTÉ One TV. UCC is very proud of the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine, published by Cork University Press (CUP) in 2012, edited by John Crowley, William J Smyth, and Mike Murphy of our Department of Geography. Acclaimed as Best Irish Book of the Year for 2012, The Atlas of the Great Irish Famine is one of CUP’s most popular books ever with over 22,000 copies sold to date. This new documentary is a co-production of UCC, RTÉ, and ARTE, the European Culture Channel. Directed by Ruán Magan and produced by Tyrone Productions and Create One, it is narrated by Liam Neeson. Like the Atlas on which it is based, this documentary is an important contribution by UCC to the public understanding of an extremely complex period in Irish history and one which forms an important element in Irish identity, and I am sure that it will further deepen public awareness of the issues that it so ably articulates... In conjunction with the broadcast of ‘The Hunger’ I also wish to announce the launch on Monday of a new major website on the Great Irish Famine: https://www.rte.ie/history/the-great-irish-famine/. Hosted by RTÉ and edited by Dr John Crowley, UCC, this is a major new online source of information about the Great Irish Famine, including fascinating contributions with new research by the leading scholars in the area. I congratulate UCC colleagues Dr John Crowley and Mike Murphy of the Department of Geography and Dr Helene O’Keeffe of the School of History for their vision and leadership in creating and managing this new publicly accessible resource. This project is the product of a partnership between RTÉ History, the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media and the Atlas of the Great Irish Famine. Professor John O’Halloran, Interim President, U.C.C.

*Added on 30/11/20* The Colourful Heritage of County Cork Volume Two

Following the success of Cork County Council’s original ‘The Colourful Heritage of County Cork’ bilingual colouring book, a second volume has now been launched as part of the Council’s ‘Keep Well’ wellbeing campaign. Volume Two of the popular series features 30 brand new sites from across the county, from Bandon and Buttevant to Kanturk and Youghal. Supported by The Heritage Council and the Creative Ireland Programme, the publication is bilingual in both Irish and English and covers a wide range of culture and heritage, from craft and archaeology to biodiversity and maritime heritage. Members of the public were invited to contribute drawings of heritage and cultural sites, while the Council also worked with illustrators to complete the latest addition to ‘The Heritage of County Cork’ series, combining culture and heritage with colour and creativity. Welcoming the publication, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley said “This fantastic publication provides Corkonians near and far, and prospective future visitors, the opportunity to connect with the heritage of Cork County from the comfort of home. Thanks to the amazing public contribution there are illustrations for all ages and abilities, as well as fascinating insights into our heritage. Whether you’re looking for a quiet activity for yourself, or a fun family night, ‘The Colourful Heritage of County Cork Volume Two’ is an excellent companion to switching off, keeping well and staying active during the restrictions.” Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey noted “Cork County Council is committed to preserving, promoting and supporting our heritage in all its forms. The size of Cork County means we have a rich diversity of built, natural and cultural heritage to celebrate in our communities. This latest publication will provide a great resource for the people of Cork and future visitors for years to come.” The Colourful Heritage of County Cork - Volume Two is available to download on Cork County Council’s website at www.corkcoco.ie. A limited number of printed copies are available free of charge. To request a copy of the new release or the original publication, simply email [email protected]. The publication forms part of Cork County Council’s “Keep Well” Campaign, which aims to provide resources, advice and support on maintaining mental and physical health this winter. These resources are available on https://www.corkcoco.ie/en/keeping-well-your-community and are promoted across the Council’s social media channels. To download a pdf version of Cork County’s Colourful Heritage Book Returns click here.

*Added on 03/12/20* Ireland's Weather in 2020 indicates Further Evidence of Climate Change The WMO has published its Provisional Statement on the State of the Global Climate in 2020, on what is the 5th anniversary of the Paris Agreement. It stated that 2020 is on course to be one of the three warmest years on record worldwide. 2011-2020 will be the warmest decade on record. Ireland’s meteorological data for 2020 also provides further evidence of a warming Ireland, according to Met Éireann. 2020 is on course to be the joint ninth warmest year on record in Ireland. Met Éireann analysis of 2020 temperature and rainfall data from Ireland provides evidence of the country’s changing climate: • 2020 is on course to be the 10th consecutive year with an above normal temperature for Ireland • 2020 data indicates that 19 of the 20 years of this century have had an above normal temperature • February was the wettest February in over 50 years with 252% of normal rain falling and 16 of Met Éireann’s core network of 25 stations recorded their wettest February on record Furthermore, Ireland has felt the impacts of climate change this year: • Parts of the East had their driest Spring on record. Countrywide, only 58% of normal rainfall fell this Spring • August’s sustained wind (10-minute mean) and gust (3-second mean) records were broken during Storm Ellen Commenting on the data, Met Éireann Senior Climatologist Keith Lambkin said: “As the WMO publishes its ‘Provisional Statement of the State of the Global Climate 2020’, it’s an opportunity to reflect on how 2020 compares to Ireland’s normal climate. Extreme weather experienced in Ireland in 2020 is likely to become more common into the future. Our analysis shows a wetter Winter and drier Spring than we have been used to. This pattern is in line with predicted climate change-related trends for Ireland. We saw the impact of such weather on our daily lives this year with the high level of flooding in February, particularly in the Shannon catchment. At the other end of the spectrum, a national hosepipe ban was introduced after parts of the East had its driest Spring on record… By providing the latest climate information and projections, Met Éireann and its partners continue to help Irish society to develop plans to adapt to climate change and future extreme weather.” This news comes as the WMO outline the stark reality of increasing extreme events due to global warming. Their key messages include: o 2011-2020 will be the warmest decade on record globally o Despite the COVID-19 lockdown, atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases continued to rise globally, committing the planet to further warming for many generations to come o 2020 saw a record number of hurricanes in the Atlantic o Wildfires consumed vast areas in Australia, Siberia, the US West Coast and South America, sending plumes of smoke circumnavigating the globe o Flooding in parts of Africa and South East Asia led to massive population displacement and undermined food security for millions As records continue to be broken globally, so too are records being broken in Ireland. The science is complex but the message is simple – to reduce the extremes we must reduce the warming.

*Added on 05/12/20* Youghal Celebrates History - The Pandemic Lectures (via Zoom) Youghal Celebrates History is renowned for their annual conferences and the great talks and lectures they have each and every year. While physical lectures are not possible due to Covid-19, the group has arranged for a series of exciting lectures (online via Zoom) over the coming months. Talks will include ‘The Burning of Cork’; ‘A Virtual Tour of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church in Youghal’, ‘Florence Newton – the Witch of Youghal’ ‘The Liverpool Irish’ and ‘Images and Impressions of the Blackwater Valley from Past to Present’. Contact Kieran ([email protected] ) if you wish to attend any or all of the talks. A link will then be posted to you the night before each talk. All talks are on Zoom and are free and for further details see the attached schedule of talks by clicking here

*Added on 05/12/20* A Centenary publication for the town name Cobh

In July 1920, Queenstown in Cork Harbour was renamed as Cobh – a historic occasion in the town. One hundred years later, while Covid-19 prevented the holding of a large gathering, the Cobh Commemorations Committee no less undertook a bespoke publication to mark the occasion. Featuring a foreword by Gabriel Doherty, School of History, U.C.C. and wonderful articles by such historians as Anne McSweeney, John Hennessy, Paul O’Sullivan and Kieran McCarthy the publication is a fascinating insight into this important aspect of Irish history. The publication is available in numerous outlets throughout Cobh and has been supported by Cork County Council through its Commemorations Committee. A digital version is also available online

*Added on 06/12/20* Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage Lectures (via Zoom) Dúchas Clonakilty Heritage is pleased to announce that they will be hosting a number of lectures online (by Zoom webinar) over the winter and spring, until such time as they will be able to hold lectures safely in the Parish Centre once more. Pre-registration will be required for all lectures. The first lecture is by Colum Cronin of Coppeen Heritage who recently produced the very interesting and successful film documentary, ‘Kilmichael Ambush – A Story of a Century’, to mark the centenary of the Kilmichael ambush. This talk takes place on Thursday 10th at 8pm and if you are interested register immediately as numbers are limited – contact [email protected] for more information.

*Added on 06/12/20* The Community Water Development Fund is now open for 2021

The Community Water Development Fund aims to support the delivery of local projects and initiatives to address the major issues of water quality, biodiversity loss and climate change. The fund is administered by the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and is available to all community and voluntary groups. LAWPRO opened the 2021 fund on Saturday 28 November at the annual seminar of Irish Rivers Trusts and Catchment Groups. That seminar saw 246 people gather from across the whole of Ireland to share knowledge and experiences of ‘Communities Caring for Water’. Speaking at the event Sheevaun Thompson, Funding lead with LAWPRO said “demand for the Community Water Development Fund has increased year on year since it was first launched in 2018 and it is exciting to announce that the fund has been increased to €360,000 in 2021, up from €225,000 in 2020. This will allow LAWPRO to support even more locally led community projects next year.” A link to a recording of the seminar is available at www.lawaters.ie. For the 2021 Open Call, applicants are asked to complete the application form online and in conjunction with the guidelines provided online at www.lawaters.ie. Closing date for receipt of applications is Tuesday9 February 2021 at 12 noon and types of projects considered for funding will include:

• Capital projects such as: wildlife conservation and restoration of habitat; natural flood mitigation measures; fish passage projects; invasive species control, tree planting, rain garden and Nature Based Solutions, etc. • Awareness raising and information initiatives, such as videos and publications. • Projects that promote public awareness/education and events such as biodiversity days, surveys, training workshops, surveys and plans, water conservation initiatives, Citizen Science, etc. • Community benefit and amenity such as: beach clean-ups, improving amenity areas, bird watching facilities, etc. Grants awarded will range from €500 to €5,000; up to €10,000 and up to €25,000. If you experience any technical difficulties on the website or need advice contact Sheevaun Thompson, Funding Lead, Local Authority Waters Programme at 087 2436804, email [email protected] or at Facebook.com/LAWPROteam. Pictured above is Milford Tidy Towns and their new River Deel Biodiversity Sign.

*Added on 09/12/20* Finding Solace in Nature Biodiversity Ireland have confirmed a big increase in biological recording during 2020 with over 160,000 records through their system. To find out more about this and how you can help go to https://www.biodiversityireland.ie/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Biodiversity-Ireland-Issue- 20_WEB.pdf?fbclid=IwAR04zHN0mBCOgZphYt9s7dbAIUg4gvqp0owHwSf84ZjCJJseb_5RgjCJqtM

*Added on 13/12/20* Historic Town Initiative 2021 A total of €1.5 million has been allocated for the heritage-led regeneration of towns around the country in 2021, and will be particularly welcome by urban areas hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic. Speaking at the launch of the scheme, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Malcolm Noonan, TD, said ‘I am delighted to launch another year of the Historic Towns Initiative, which will support the regeneration of even more Irish historic towns. This Initiative will make €1.5 million available to a number of towns which will in turn help drive investment and renewal. Heritage-led regeneration can breathe new life into a town, helping to provide an attractive environment where people can live and work. The renewed vibrancy in the heart of a town brings its own economic benefits as footfall and visitor numbers increase and new light shines into once-vacant commercial and residential premises.” The Historic Towns Initiative (HTI) 2021 is a joint undertaking by the Department of Husing, Local Government and Heritage and the Heritage Council and to date, a total of 18 towns have benefitted under the scheme with a variety of projects funded over the past three years. Commenting on the Historic Towns Initiative, Chairman of the Heritage Council, Mr Michael Parsons said: “Programmes such as this rely on the strength of local communities and businesses in caring for their historic town. With support from local and national government we can use heritage to improve the quality of life in all in our historic towns.” Virginia Teehan, Heritage Council CEO, said: “This blending of the old and the new is a key factor in the regeneration of our towns. and this initiative clearly fulfils this objective. Over the past year there have been some outstanding examples where the fusion of community effort, coupled with expertise in the heritage field, have come together with a common purpose. We are confident that in the coming year, we will see further examples of projects and initiatives, which improve the quality of life for residents and visitors, while at the same time preserving the integrity of our past’. A town seeking to benefit from the Historic Towns Initiative should possess significant cultural and heritage assets and have an indicative minimum population of 1,500 inhabitants. The HTI 2021 is open for applications from local authorities and funding applications must be submitted via the Heritage Council’s online grants system. The closing date is 5th February 2020. For more information about the Historic Towns Initiative visit https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/projects/historic-towns- initiative and please note that Assessment criteria can be accessed at https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/funding/historic-towns-initiative-2021

*Added on 13/12/20* Bandon Historical Journal No. 37 Out Now

‘The new Bandon Historical Journal for 2021 is now available in Bandon Books, Hickeys, O'Farrells, O'Donovans, Kevin O'Leary and Billy Cahalanes for just €10. This is an ideal christmas stocking filler. This years journal is a must have as it covers detailed accounts of the troubles and tragedies from 100 years ago. It features poetry, photographs and covers a range of subjects from near and far. Grab your copy the next time your in Bandon’ – Cumann Seanchais na Banndan

*Added on 14/12/20* Christmas Traditions of Cork - by the Local Studies Department of Cork County Council's Library and Arts Service Cork County, containing a city, towns of various sizes, and remote peninsular areas has a corresponding diversity of Christmas traditions. This podcast offers a representative selection varying from the amusing to the intensely moving, and reflects the wealth of information on the subject in the holdings of the Reference & Local Department at Cork County Library. Podcast developed and recorded by Cork County Council’s Local Studies Department and available to listen at https://soundcloud.com/user-500658861/christmas- traditions-of-cork

*Added on 15/12/20* Online Talk by Catryn Power - The Skeletons in My Closet - Zoom - December 16th 2020 8-9pm Following a degree in Archaeology and postgraduate work in Dental Anthropology, Catryn trained in further skeletal studies abroad, in the Smithsonian, in Washington, in Brest, and in England. She was one of a small unit set up in University College Cork to carry out post excavation analysis of human and animal bones in the 1980's. Catryn taught probably the first physical anthropology courses for archaeologists in Ireland and she called it Palaeodemography, which was a unique course worldwide. Having taught this course for eighteen years she used the skeletal remains which she worked on to teach the archaeology students. They learned excavation of skeletons, forensic anthropology, epidemiology, palaeopathology, etc. When she moved roles to become Cork County Archaeologist, she continued to examine skeletal and cremated remains in her free time. There were a couple of experts in Ireland examining human remains from archaeological sites in the 1980's and early 1990's. Many Universities worldwide teach those very popular subjects now. Catryn having examined a few thousand skeletons from all periods from the Island of Ireland has at this stage published about sixty reports/papers, many on human remains. She has also carried out forensic examinations for the Gardaí and cremations are another expertise which she has studied. She has examined well known sites such as Neolithic Knowth and Fourknocks, Early Medieval Downpatrick's Cathedral Hill, the Vikings and Anglo-Norman remains from Wood Quay and Waterford, and the medieval Dominican Priory at Crosses Green from Cork City (to name but a few). Catryn has determined cause of death for some of these individuals, also familial relationships, diseases such as infections and degenerative diseases as well as injuries etc. Hosted by Trasna na Tíre and taking place on December 16th 2020 from 20:00 to 21:00. Join via Zoom ID 384 406 666

*Added on 15/12/20* Water Quality in 2019 - An Indicators Report

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has published the Water Quality Indicators Report 2019 which provides an assessment on Ireland’s surface water and groundwater quality. • Just over half of Irish surface waters are in a satisfactory condition. • Nutrient concentrations in waters are too high and the trends are going in the wrong direction. • Nitrate concentrations are now increasing in nearly half of our river and groundwater sites. • Phosphate levels are increasing in a quarter of river sites. • Concentrations of nitrate are highest in the south and south east of the country where the main source is agriculture. • Delivering on the key objectives of Ireland’s River Basin Management Plan and targeted action at local water catchment level is key to improving water quality. The main threat to water quality is the presence of too much nutrients, such as phosphorus and nitrogen, which come primarily from agriculture and waste water. Over one third of rivers, and a quarter of lakes are failing to meet their environmental quality standards for nutrients. Over one fifth of our groundwater, estuarine and coastal water bodies have high nitrogen concentrations. Just over half of rivers and lakes are in high or good biological quality. The rivers surveyed in 2019 have shown more improvements than declines overall, which is welcome, however further action is needed to return waters to a satisfactory condition. The report is available on the EPA website and the accompanying data used in the water quality assessments are available on www.catchments.ie An infographic is also available. This report provides an update on the quality of water in Ireland’s rivers, lakes, transitional and coastal waters and groundwater using information collected in 2019.

*Added on 16/12/20* EPA Publishes 7th State of the Environment Report The EPA has recently published its seventh state of the environment report. The aim of the report is to provide an overview of the current condition of Ireland’s environment and whether it is getting better or worse. The report covers climate, air, noise, soil and land cover, nature and the freshwater and marine environment; and integrated assessments covering waste, the economy/industry, transport, energy, agriculture and the interactions between the environment and human health and wellbeing. The report found that almost 90% of our energy is generated from fossil fuels giving rise to greenhouse gases; air quality in some urban areas doesn’t meet WHO standards; nature and habitats are being damaged (85% of EU listed habitats are in unfavourable condition) and wetland bird species, such as curlew, are under threat as a breeding species. In addition, raw sewage is being discharged to water from 35 towns and villages; pristine river water quality is being lost (from over 500 areas in the 80s to just 20 in 2020); nutrient concentrations in rivers and nutrient inputs to the marine environment are increasing; more than one million tonnes of food waste is generated each year in Ireland and littering remains a problem. Whilst the report does show Ireland going in the wrong direction, there are positives in the report that point towards what can be achieved at a local level in many areas. The overarching message from the report is that system-wide change is now needed in how we look after our environment. The fully report can be viewed at: https://www.epa.ie/pubs/reports/indicators/04654-EPA-SoE-Report- 2020-Proof-26-FINAL.pdf

*Added on 16/12/20* Heritage Sector Support Fund The Heritage Council’s Heritage Sector Support fund is now OPEN for applications. The scheme aims to support not for profit, heritage-focused organisations to deliver programmes that contribute to heritage priorities at a national level. Who can apply: Not for profit, heritage-focused organisations with a demonstrated national relevance. Please note: a separate grant scheme for Community organisations, will be announced in early 2021. Full details at https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/funding/heritage-sector-support-fund-2021

*Added on 16/12/20* Funding of €50,000 Announced for every Local Authority in 2021 under the Community Strand of the Decade of Centenaries Programme The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin T.D., today announced funding of €1.75 million for local authorities in 2021 to support their leading role in developing community- led commemorative activities for the final phase of the Decade of Centenaries Programme. €50,000 will be allocated to every Local Authority to support their plans for 2021. A further €200k is available for those local authorities who have any additional requirements in relation to specific centenary events and other larger projects. Speaking today, Minister Martin said: ‘I want to sincerely thank all of the local authorities for responding with such enthusiasm, ambition and imagination in developing their commemorative programmes for this year. I know that it took considerable work to adapt their plans so skilfully in response to the immense challenges imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The final phase of the Decade of Centenaries (2021 – 2023) recalls some of the most significant, traumatic and deeply personal events in our shared history, including the Struggle for Independence, the Civil War, Partition and foundation of Northern Ireland. The thoughtful and careful approach of our local authorities will have a key role in supporting the national conversation and respectful public engagement with this period in our history. I plan to continue the collaborative approach between the State, local authorities, and local communities, which has worked so well to date, to ensure that these challenging and sensitive events in our shared history are remembered in an inclusive, measured, and balanced manner. This funding package represents a significant increase on previous years and shows the confidence and trust we have in our local authority partners to deliver thought provoking and imaginative initiatives in 2021. I have asked local authorities to allocate at least €15,000 from this 2021 funding to support artistic and creative endeavours. I hope that the work of artists and creative practitioners will provide a platform to encourage and support reflection and shared remembrance of this very difficult period in our history’.

*Added on 16/12/20* Republication of the Late Siobhán Lankford's Book: The Hope and the Sadness

Siobhán Lankford’s book, The Hope and The Sadness, first published in 1980, is her personal recollection of a long and varied life. By the outbreak of WW1 she was working in Mallow Post Office, well placed to observe life around her in a town that was an important military and police centre, a railway junction, a point on the main cable and telegraph routes and home to a strong loyalist population. By the time news of the Easter Rising in Dublin spread around the town, Siobhán was already familiar with the activities of the Volunteers in Cork and Mallow and she was soon recruited into the intelligence network organized by Tomás MacCurtain. Her story then becomes the personal testimony of a woman who served as an Intelligence Officer with the Volunteers at local level in Cork during the revolutionary period, 1916-23, with an effectiveness that frequently impacted on decisions made at national level. The Epilogue in this edition, written by her son, Doctor Éamon Lankford, gives an account of the author’s later life as Materfamilias and cultural nationalist who engaged productively into her old age with the cultural life of Cork City. An appendix detailing the author’s protracted dealings with The Military Pensions Board shows how a strategic, courageous Intelligence Officer became a lost woman in the male-dominated bureaucracy of the new Irish State. The republication was supported by Cork County Council through the Creative Ireland Programme and for more information visit lankfordbooks.capeclearmuseum.ie or email [email protected].

*Added on 16/12/20* The War of Independence West Cork Trail

Cork County Council’s Michael Collins House has launched an all new heritage guide; ‘The War of Independence West Cork Trail'. The guide, which is available in print and online, details the key West Cork sites associated with the Irish War of Independence. The trail was researched and compiled by Michael Collins House Museum, Clonakilty as part of its centenary commemorative programme for the Irish War of Independence in West Cork. Taking into account the seven different 1920 IRA battalion areas of Bandon, Clonakilty, Skibbereen, , Bantry, and the trail highlights some of the key events and sites in each area giving participants an overall view and understanding of the war for which the ‘Rebel County’ is well known. West Cork was one of the most active regions in the Irish War of Independence, with many events of local and national importance taking place here. The “War of Independence Trail” aims to highlight some of the related sites and memorials, while providing a guide for both locals and visitors to the region. Encouraging viewers to engage with the fascinating revolutionary heritage of West Cork, the trail leads participants around some of the lesser known but nonetheless historically important and beautiful sites in the region. A printed leaflet and map are available throughout Cork County Council’s library network and other heritage attractions. An online version with even more information, sites and interactive maps is available on www.michaelcollinshouse.ie or through the Michael Collins House App. Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the new guide saying, “This is a fantastic resource for history and heritage enthusiasts, guiding visitors and West Cork natives to the sites of events which would change this nation’s history and the fate of an empire. Cork County is a proud home to rich cultural and historical heritage, and this guide from Michael Collins House meets the Council’s goals in promoting and sharing that heritage. The ‘The War of Independence West Cork Trail' highlights not just the history of events, but the tireless work of generations of historians which ensures that we can continue to learn from our history and share it with the world.”

*Added on 18/12/20* Cork School Gardens Competition Video The Cork School Gardens Competition is an initiative of the Cork Federation of Muintir na Tíre and supported by Cork County Council; Cork City Council and Griffins Garden Centre, Dripsey. While the competition did not take place in 2020 due to Covid-19 a promotional video has been undertaken, with support from the Creative Ireland Programme, to highlight the competition and to encourage schools to get involved in 2021 and in subsequent years. There will be more on the 2021 competition early next year with thanks to Muintir na Tíre and in the meantime the 2020 video can be viewed on Cork County Council’s YouTube channel by clicking here.

*Added on 18/12/20* Archaeological Heritage of County Cork

Cork County Council has launched the 8th instalment of its heritage publication series “The Archaeological Heritage of County Cork”. This publication draws from the wealth of knowledge of community groups countywide, whose submissions were assembled and enriched by the expertise of the former Director of the Cork Archaeological Survey, Denis Power. The publication takes readers on a journey of archaeological sites throughout the County, ranging from stone circles and standing stones, to ringforts, castles, lime kilns and many more, documenting millennia of human life in Cork County. Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley welcomed the publication saying; “This wonderful insight into our rich shared heritage is made possible by countless community groups throughout the County who provided over 75 submissions for this publication. Their photographs, writings and local knowledge are central to the completed work and reflect the irreplaceable value of community work in preserving, restoring and interpreting our built and cultural heritage.” “The Archaeological Heritage of County Cork” will be available from bookshops and retailers at €10. For more information visit www.corkcoco.ie/arts-heritage or email [email protected].

*Added on 18/12/20* New Irish Walled Towns Network Ezine The Irish Walled Towns Network (IWTN) has a membership of over two dozen towns throughout the island of Ireland (North, South, East and West) and includes 4 towns in Cork. Three of these are in Cork County – Bandon, Buttevant and Youghal – and Cork City is also part of the Network. The Irish Walled Towns Network over the last number of years has supported a range of different projects and undertakings, including here in the County of Cork. To further promote the work of the ITWN, a new Ezine, to be released every two months henceforth, has been embarked upon, with the very first issue just released. The first edition features articles on archaeological reconstruction drawings; impact scarring on town walls and further news about the network. Issue One can be viewed by clicking here .

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