GOOD NEWS ONLY!
GOOD NEWS ONLY! LEGAL MATTERS CORNER
MIRIAM MC GILLICUDDY ANSWERS YOUR LEGAL QUERIES
Robin had to take leave from work to look after a close family member when they became seriously ill. She is wondering what her rights are in relation to this. She is also wondering what her rights would be if she was sick herself.
An employee can take up to 5 days unpaid leave in any 12 month period to deal with serious medical care for a child or other family member. This applies from 3rd July 2023. It is unpaid leave to provide personal care and attention and support. The persons that one can take the leave for includes a parent/grandparent, spouse/civil partner, cohabitant, brother/sister or a person residing in one’s household and they must be in need of significant care and support. for a serious medical reason. It must be one or more days. The employee should apply for the leave on a form explaining the circumstances arising. The employer should acknowledge receipt of the application and keep records of the leave. Any dispute can be referred to the Workplace Relations Commission.
The Sick Leave Act, 2022 provides for a statutory sick pay scheme for all employees. For 2023 the entitlement was 3 days paid sick leave.
From 1 January 2024 the entitlement is 5 days paid sick leave. It is proposed that the entitlement will increase to 7 days for 2025 and to 10 days for 2026. While on sick leave the employees are entitled to 70% of their usual daily earnings up to a maximum €110 a day. The sick leave must be certified. To qualify a person must have been employed for at least 13 weeks. It can include full-time and part-time employees. If the sick leave is unused by year end it cannot travel over to the next week. The statutory requirement does not apply if the employer provides a better sick leave rights as part of an employment contract. If the employer is in financial difficulty they might get an exemption from sick leave pay.
In relation to extreme weather events it is a matter of agreement between the employee and employer that the employee could take annual leave in lieu of working or unpaid leave. If extreme weather closes down a workplace the employer might look at sending employees off on layoff.
Lawquip: I think Smithers picked me because of my motivational skills. Everyone says they have to work a lot harder when I’m around.
– Homer Simpson
If you have a legal query or need further information on any item addressed in this column please send in your query to miriam.mcgillycuddy@gmail.com
Thomas McEllistrim Announces Candidacy for Kerry Constituency with Independent Ireland Party
Thomas McEllistrim has been announced as the Kerry candidate for Independent Ireland in the upcoming General Election. With a history of public service, including roles as County Councillor, Mayor of Tralee Municipal District, Leas Chathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, and TD, Thomas brings extensive experience and a longstanding family legacy in Kerry politics. McEllistrim’s priorities focus on critical issues:
• Housing: He aims to expand affordable and social housing options in Kerry to address local needs.
• Healthcare: McEllistrim plans to push for more investment in University Hospital Kerry and mental health services to improve healthcare standards in the county.
• Cost of Living: To alleviate
financial pressures on families, workers, and carers, he advocates for reducing USC and carbon taxes.
• Immigration: He supports a balanced approach to immigration, enforcing Ireland’s laws fairly.
• Agriculture: Representing Kerry’s agricultural base, he is committed to reducing red tape and securing fair treatment for farmers.
“I’m running with Independent Ireland to advocate for Kerry’s needs on housing, healthcare, and more,” McEllistrim said. “Politics is about improving lives, and Independent Ireland offers a genuine path for change.”
Michael Collins, Leader of Independent Ireland, endorsed him, saying, “Thomas is deeply committed to Kerry and embodies the values
of Independent Ireland.” Richard O’Donoghue, General Secretary, added, “Thomas’s experience and dedication make him a vital part of our mission for impactful change.”
As he begins his campaign, McEllistrim promises a focus on
genuine improvement for Kerry, believing that Independent Ireland offers a real alternative for voters seeking progress.
Cara Credit Union Honoured with Social Impact Award at All-Ireland Credit Union Awards 2024
Cara Credit Union is delighted to announce its receipt of the Social Impact Award at the esteemed Annual All-Ireland Credit Union Awards 2024. The event, held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dublin Airport, celebrated the exceptional contributions of credit unions throughout Ireland. Cara Credit Union was recognised for its impactful education programme designed to raise awareness about money muling among post-primary school students and third-level institutions. This initiative, shared with credit unions across Kerry, aimed to educate students and parents about the dangers of money muling and the steps to take if they suspect they are victims.
Campaign Highlights:
• Educational Outreach: The programme was rolled out in post-primary schools and thirdlevel institutions, equipping students with vital information
about money muling, its risks, and preventive measures.
• Community Engagement: By partnering with other credit unions in Kerry, the campaign ensured comprehensive awareness, reaching all schools and parents in the community.
• Support and Resources: The initiative provided resources and support for those who believed they might be victims of money muling, fostering a safer and more informed community.
Siobhan Donnelly, Marketing Manager, Cara Credit Union said:
“We are extremely proud of this campaign. As a Credit Union, we believe in people helping people and we take our social responsibility very seriously. We want to educate our members and protect our local communities across Kerry from the dangers of this criminal activity. That is why it’s so important that we be centrally involved in this initiative.
Step right up for the ultimate circus celebration! and Fireworks Parade on Friday Evening in Denny St
The National Circus Festival of Ireland returns to Tralee from October 31st to November 3rd, bringing four days of thrilling acts, hands-on workshops, breathtaking parades, and an unforgettable fireworks display along with the Parade on Friday Evening ( Today )
From daring stunts and jaw-dropping performances by global talent to family-friendly workshops and industry events, this is a festival for everyone. Discover circus magic in the heart of Tralee and be part of Ireland’s largest circus gathering!
Don’t miss out - tickets from €5-€70. See the full programme and secure yours at www.circusfestival.ie
This campaign could not have happened without Kerry’s Crime Prevention Office, Mike Quirke, the support of our local post-primary schools and third-level institutions, the support of all the credit unions, and the local media. However, I would especially like to thank the two young people who shared their story on how money muling impacted their lives; this video was
the cornerstone of the campaign. So, thank you.”
The Annual All-Ireland Credit Union Awards are a cornerstone event in Ireland’s credit union community, celebrating leadership, innovation, and social responsibility. These awards highlight the vital role credit unions play in promoting financial empowerment and community well-being.
TRALEE | CO KERRY
Guests and visitors alike can enjoy locally sourced, modern cuisine from our newly crafted menu and our extensive range of daily specials.
Dine in a casual and relaxed setting with breathtaking views of Tralee Bay and the Slieve Mish Mountains.
The Palace Bar & Restaurant is Open All Week!!! Sun - Thurs 12.30pm – 8pm | Friday & Sat 12.30pm - 9pm A la Carte & Daily Specials - All walk-ins welcome!
Ballyroe Heights Hotel hosts semi-private and private function rooms to cater for the perfect atmosphere for your party. To reserve your booking, please contact us by phone: 066-7126796 / Email: info@ballyroe.com or just call in to us .
...After last years HUGE Success
Come & Meet Santa and his Huskies this December!
Santa Claus will be coming to Sera Husky Animal Rescue Charity Store in Rock St, Tralee
On Arrival, each child will get Hot Chocolate & Soft drinks and a Goody Bag with Tea & Coffee for Mom & Dad (& all the adults!)
Watch Out for 'PantaClaws'Night: FriDec13th...OurSpecial NightforFamilies&their pets...mBringalongyour Dog, Cat, Hamster etc for a 'Meet & Greet with Santa
Times:
■ Warm indoor seated waiting area
■ Games while U wait
■ Raffles with Super Spot Prizes ....sponsored by Aldi Stores
Sunday Dec 8th..........................from 12 to 4pm
Wednesday Dec 11th .............from 6pm to 8pm
Friday Dec 13th (Panta Claws)..from 6 to 8pm
Sunday Dec 15th..........................from 12 to 4pm
NO RESERVATION IS NEEDED!
Cost is ONLY €10 per child!
...No booking is needed (Early bookings can be made for children with disabilities, call us 066-7118429)
(Note Cash & Revolut only)
WHAT DOES YOUR SANTA VISIT HELP US ACHIEVE AT SERA HUSKY?
Its simple really ....Your visit will help the rescue remain operational during the winter months, which is the most expensive time of year for us. Daily electricity bills can reach up to €80. Everything becomes more challenging and costly in the winter, and since we do not receive government funding, we rely heavily on these events to make it through.
HAVE YOUBRICFURNITURE? A BRAC? & CLOTHES
PleaseDONATE??TO contact the shop on 066 7118429
Barrow Golf Club caterers Honey Truffle Lands Catering Contract At Iconic Ballybunion Golf Club
Ballybunion Golf Club has awarded its catering contract to Truffle Honey, a local company known for high-quality, personalized dining experiences across Ireland. Truffle Honey, founded in 2015 by Mike and Collette Hayes, already provides food services at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club and Tralee Golf Club. The company is dedicated to offering premium service, using local ingredients to create a comforting yet refined dining experience. Mike Hayes, who leads Truffle Honey’s kitchen team, expressed enthusiasm about the new partnership: “The management and members at Ballybunion Golf Club have trusted us to deliver a food service that matches their iconic golfing experience. We’re excited to work with the existing team, bringing their knowledge of the club
together with our standards.”
Truffle Honey will cater to the 70,000 rounds of golf played annually on Ballybunion’s Old and Cashen Links Courses, including 20,000 rounds by international visitors, mainly from the USA. The Ballybunion restaurant offers a scenic view of the 1st Tee and the Atlantic Ocean, ensuring that guests enjoy their final impression of the club.
Ballybunion’s General Manager, John Eggleston, emphasized the importance of exceptional catering: “The last interaction guests have is with our restaurant, and Truffle Honey has proven expertise in the golf industry to meet the standards we maintain here at Ballybunion.”
Truffle Honey anticipates expanding its team from 65 to 80 staff by next year to meet the needs of this new partnership.
For more information or to make reservations, visit TruffleHoney.ie or email info@TruffleHoney.ie.
Truffle Honey Directors, Mike Hayes, Collete Hayes and Shane Edwards
Rally star Aoife Raftery
to inspire Munster Technological University students in Tralee
Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy driver Aoife Raftery will be a special guest at Munster Technological University (MTU) in Tralee on Monday, November 4, following The Rose Hotel Kerry Winter Rally held on Sunday. The rally’s service park is set at MTU’s North Campus, which earlier this year was chosen as one of three sites for a potential World Rally Championship return to Ireland. This collaboration between MTU and Kerry Motor Club aims to bring international rallying to Tralee. Raftery, the only female driver in the
Motorsport Ireland Rally Academy, will discuss her experiences in the Junior FIA European Rally Championship, where she recently placed third in the Junior British Rally Championship element of the Cambrian Rally in Wales. This event offers MTU students a unique opportunity to learn from her expertise, spanning engineering, data analysis, and motorsport logistics.
“I’m excited to talk to the students at MTU about rallying,
from the technical side to event management,” said Raftery, whose collaboration with engineers at PCRS Rallysport and Broderick Motorsport fine-tunes her Peugeot 208 Rally4’s performance.
Her insights will resonate with students from MTU’s School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics as well as those in Business, Computing, Humanities, and Health and Social Sciences.
During her visit, Raftery will conduct a series of lunchtime talks, join a
photo session at the Kerry Sports Academy, and explore MTU’s virtual reality suite, which includes a road safety demonstrator. As a road safety ambassador, Raftery champions the “Keep the Race In Its Place” message. MTU’s External Services Manager Anne Looney welcomed the collaboration: “This is a great opportunity for our students to hear firsthand about the diverse aspects of motorsport.”
Spotted on the Street
“SNAPPED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”
We pick out some great photos posted on social media each week ...if you have any good ones please send them in... email traleeadvertiser@gmail.com or message us on our Facebook page... Enjoy!
This time 3 years ago!
...Remembering Joe!
Here’s a photo I took this time 3 years ago outside the Grand Hotel ...Miss you , Joe !
“Joe Hanley . a member of IUNVA 32 Post Kerry and members of 12Bn RDF, Tralee who attended mass last Sunday for deceased members of Defences and soldiers who served in overseas service Photo Chris Shortt“
Happy 4th Birthday to Parkgate Coffee!
As part of their birthday celebrations, this weekend Parkgate will be fundraising for Katie’s @coffeeforcancer2024
Thin Lizzy, formed in Dublin in 1969, is renowned for its blend of rock genres. The original lineup featured Phil Lynott, Brian Downey, and Eric Bell, with notable changes over the years, including the addition of twin guitarists Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson.
Top Social Media award for CH !
CH Chemists Tralee are honoured to have been awarded the Clarins Ireland ‘Social Media’ award which was presented by Eoghan O’Sullivan at the ie style awards in Cork recently.
Nearly €1.2 million raised and distributed to Kerry Charities from
photos by MACMONAGLE Photography
MTU Kerry Campus Conferring Ceremonies for Class of 2024
Over 600 graduates from diverse disciplines across the School of Business, Computing and Humanities, School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, and School of Health and Social Science received their awards.
By :
Domnick
Walsh © Eye Focus LTD .
Tralee Tidy Towns
Awards
At The Rose Hotel
Is Your Business Ready For The Brennan Brothers’ Magic Touch?
Following the success of their latest series of At Your Service on RTÉ One, John and Francis Brennan are seeking Irish hospitality businesses for a new season planned for 2025. Reflecting on Series 13, Francis Brennan says, “It’s incredible we’ve just wrapped up another season, and we owe it to our dedicated viewers. We’re looking for businesses eager to enhance their services and share their journey with us.”
John Brennan highlights the sector’s impact, stating, “Hospitality is crucial to Ireland’s economy, employing
over 200,000 people across all types of businesses. We want to feature those with passion and big plans to grow. If your project can benefit from our guidance and you don’t mind the cameras, we’d love to hear from you.”
At Your Service, produced by Waddell Media, seeks businesses launching this winter and aiming to open in late 2025, including new ventures and existing businesses with expansion ambitions.
Waddell Media’s Managing Director, Jannine Waddell, emphasizes, “This
The 3 Crowley Sisters graduate Together!!
series offers a unique opportunity for hospitality owners ready to elevate their service quality. Working with the Brennan Brothers means hard work, but also valuable advice and fun.”
Interested hospitality business owners in Ireland can apply for this opportunity by emailing info@ applyforatyourservice.com for a chance to be featured in four new one-hour episodes set for the New Year.
All three Crowley sisters—Caroline, Kate, and Mary Claire—have graduated together from Mary Immaculate College in Limerick this week, marking a memorable family achievement. Caroline, teacher CBS , The Green, earned her Master of Christian Leadership in Education, while her sisters, Kate and Mary Claire,both teaching in Dublin, graduated with their Bachelor of Education in Primary Teaching, a testament to their shared dedication to education.
A special mention goes to Kate, who received an award for Excellence in Education Specialism in DEIS, (Educational Disadvantage) , highlighting her commitment to promoting inclusion & tackling educational disadvantage in Primary School. It’s undoubtedly a proud moment for their parents, Susan Quirke-Crowley (Mounthawk Montessori, and John Crowley,and their three brothers,John(The Guitar Grove), Mikey & Tom & Nan , Maureen Quirke, Maureen’s Pre-school - as the three sisters continue on their promising careers in teaching.
Warriors’ shooting stars bring Belfast down to earth
Basketball Ireland Men’s Super League 2024/2025 – Round 6
Garvey’s Tralee Warriors 96 - Belfast Star 73
Garvey’s Tralee Warriors took the outright top spot on the Super League table with a 100-94 win over Energywise Ireland Neptune at the Tralee Sports Complex on Friday night. Next up for the Warriors is another home date against Maree on Saturday 9th November with tip off at 7.30pm at the Tralee Sports Complex.
National Circus Festival
Enjoy a weekend of circus events at Siamsa Tíre including Whistle II, an interactive juggling and circus performance, keep the children busy this mid-term with Circus Workshops and enjoy family fun at Circus Siamsa. Tickets: €6 (workshops) €20 , Family (4) €50 (5) €65 (Circus performances)
A Viennese Strauss Gala
This sparkling production recreates the music and romance of a bygone era of glamourous soirees, glittering ballrooms, jaunty polkas and wonderous waltzes. Featuring highlights from some of the great Operettas and music of Strauss, Kalmar and Lehar.
Tickets €25
That's Entertainment
Tralee Musical Society returns with musical entertainment in this variety show. Following sell out success in 2023, book early for this extravaganza of music, dance, comedy and an abundance of local talent. Featuring scenes from Wicked, Hairspray, The Sound of Music, Dea evan Hansen, Wonka, Billy Elliot and more.
Tickets €21
ABBA Forever
One of the year's most popular shows, this smash hit returns for a party night to remember featuring ABBA's greatest hits, making a great start to the festive season. So get your dancing boots on cause 'Here We Go Again'!
Tickets €30
KERINS O’RAHILLYS GAA NOTES
Seniors
The season concludes with the Tralee/St. Brendan’s Town Board Championship, scheduled for November 9th/10th in Strand Road against Na Gaeil. Updates on fixtures will be posted on social media and the website.
Youth Athletic Development
Programme
The club’s Youth Athletic Development Programme, launched by chairman Oliver Molloy, begins next week and runs until Christmas. Aimed at U11–U17 boys (with plans to include the ladies), the programme introduces youth to age-appropriate strength and conditioning with a focus on fun, confidence, and resilience. Sessions, led by qualified instructors, prioritize bodyweight exercises and functional movements, fostering lifelong fitness habits.
Boys U10 Invitational Tournament
Saturday’s U10 tournament brought vibrant games with Kilmacud Crokes, St. Pats, Ardfert, John Mitchels, and Kilcummin competing in a fast-paced blitz format. Organized by John O’Connor and Declan Quill, the event included games lasting 15 minutes, engaging the young athletes and delighting parents. RTE’s Jacqui Hurley presented certificates, and goody bags and pizzas capped the day.
Ladies Notes
Best of luck to our U15 girls in their Tuesday final against Fossa. Congrats to Aimee, Cora, Mia, Aoife, and Taylor on representing Kerins O’Rahilly’s in the Tralee District game.
Condolences
Our sympathies to the families of Denis Foley and Con McCarthy. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dilís.
ST. PATS GAA NOTES
50th Celebrations Ticket Sales
Tickets for St. Pats’ 50th Celebration event are available for purchase or collection every Tuesday from 7–8 pm in the old clubhouse.
50th Celebration Event
Join us on Saturday, November
16th, at the Rose Hotel for St. Pats’ 50th Anniversary! Enjoy a drinks reception at 6:30 pm, followed by dinner and dancing. Tickets are €55. Book at 0876964673 or online here.
U10 Boys Tournament
Our U10 boys had a fantastic time in a blitz tournament hosted by Kerins O’Rahillys with teams from Dublin, Ardfert, and others. RTE’s Jacqui Hurley presented certificates.
Energywise Ireland Fundraiser
Energywise Ireland offers a fundraising opportunity for the club—€250 per completed energy upgrade project. Use code Sports2024-StPatsBlennerville at Energywise Ireland for donations.
Congratulations
• Birthdays: Happy Birthday to Kathleen Poff.
• Family News: Congratulations to Conor and Siobhan Burke on the birth of Rose.
• Game Wins: Well done to Mercy Mounthawk, CBS The Green, Blennerville National School, and U9 player Aaron Costello.
NA GAEIL CLUB NOTES Bingo
Join us Monday for Bingo, with a €310 Mini Accumulator Jackpot House in 51 calls, Split the Bucket, and raffle prizes. Start time: 8 pm. Bus available (087 2817577). Over 18s only.
Volunteers Needed
The club seeks bingo volunteers for two hours every 5–6 weeks. Contact Niamh at 087-9863667 if interested.
Annual Race Night
Our Annual Race Night is Friday, November 29th, at 8:30 pm, live in the Clubhouse and on Facebook. Horses (€50 each) enter a draw for the NA GAEIL GOLD CUP with a €1,000 prize. Contact Donal (087 2577729) to purchase. Proceeds fund field development and club facilities.
Club Events
Mass for Deceased Members: November 6th, 8 pm in the clubhouse.
Senior Championship: Na Gaeil vs. Kerins O’Rahillys, Nov. 9th/10th. New-Look Website: Check out our updated website at www.nagaeil.ie. Premier League on Big Screen: Clubhouse showing live games. LGFA & Kerry Ladies
Congrats to Deirdre Kearney and Mary O’Connell on their All-Star nominations. Framed photos of Kerry’s All-Ireland winning team are available; contact 0873400206.
BALLYMACELLIGOTT
GAA CLUB NOTES
AGM Dates
Coiste Na nOg: Friday, 22nd November
Club AGM: Tuesday, 26th November, 8 pm
Ladies’ AGM: TBA
Ladies’ News
District U15 Championship Congrats to St. Kieran’s Ladies on their 4-18 to 2-8 win over East Kerry! Ballymac players Katie Turner, Michelle O’Connor, Fiona McCarthy, and Emily Heffernan played key roles. The next match is at home against Mid Kerry on Saturday.
Upcoming Matches
U13s vs. Mid Kerry, Castleisland Desmond’s, Bank Holiday Monday, 12 noon
U17s vs. Tralee District, Ballyrickard, Tuesday, 29th October, 4:30 pm
Quid Games Fundraiser
Senior Ladies’ player Úna Kerins proudly represented Ballymac in Austin Stacks’ Quid Games fundraiser, competing with skill and determination.
Scór na nÓg
Calling all young dancers, singers, musicians, storytellers, and quiz teams! Interested U17s should contact Josephine at 0861607355.
WARRIORS SECURE TOP SPOT
Garvey’s Tralee Warriors claimed the Super League’s top spot with a thrilling 100-94 victory over Energywise Ireland Neptune at home. Despite some final-second scuffles, the Warriors showed strong form, extending their season’s unbeaten record to six games with a dominant 96-73 win over Belfast Star.
Three-Point Shooting Masterclass
An outstanding shooting display led by Daniel Jokubaitis (7 threes) and Brandon Mahan (6 threes) helped the Warriors maintain control. By halftime, the Warriors were up 5537, bolstered by a barrage of threes from Jokubaitis, Mahan, and Rap Buivydas.
Unrelenting Offense
In the third quarter, the Warriors continued to extend their lead, with key contributions from MVP Mahan and Marquavian Stephens. Belfast’s Maurice Jones fought back with 10 points, but the Warriors’ scoring spree kept them ahead 7659 by quarter’s end.
Closing in Style
With young talents Zigi Kaletka and Olaf Michalczuk adding late scores, the Warriors completed their three-point tally at 18, sealing a comfortable win.
Top Scorers
Warriors: Jokubaitis 25, Mahan 23 Belfast Star: Jones 19, Richardson 14
The Warriors face Maree next on November 9th at 7:30 pm at Tralee Sports Complex.
Entertainment and Eating Out in Tralee
BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME? TALK TO US!
TriBella, this 3 in 1 provides total facial rejuvenation to improve overall skin tone, elasticity, and texture, targeting redness, sun spots and fine lines and wrinkles.
Normally €500 now only €250!
BODY CONTOURING & FAT REDUCTION