Dear Editor, God bless poor Ireland. Today I received my payslip for my HSE Pension. I worked as a Home Help for a few years and am now 72. I am in receipt of a “Pension” of 92 cents per fortnight! Every two weeks I receive an official payslip (54c), in an envelope with a 55 cent stamp. Today I got the surprise of my life to find I am now in the Tax Bracket! 18cents tax has been deducted from the 92cents and I am also paying the Universal Social Charge at the rate of [...] Continue Reading…

Said my granny to me as she jabbed her bony finger into my chest. I was a little confused and replied, “Noone.” Then why are you wearing it?” I was seventeen and going through my Bob Dylan phase. I was the coolest in black suede boots, black jeans, black polo neck jumper and the piece de resistance, a dark tan suede jacket that I had bought for £12 at a second hand clothing stall in the English Market. This was the item of clothing that she objected to. I merely shrugged at her lack of taste [...] Continue Reading…

The Cork City Council Heritage Grant Scheme is aimed at providing core funding in the form of small grants (€200 – €500) for local, communitybased heritage groups and individuals, who are involved in ongoing work that benefits the heritage of Cork City. Examples of eligible activities include holding public talks and meetings, exhibitions, training events, preparation costs for local publications, etc. Activities promoting the importance of all aspects of heritage in local communities and amongst young people are particularly welcome. The closing date for this application is 4pm, Friday, 10th February 2012. For an application form [...] Continue Reading…

The definition of organic depends on your focus, but some define it as of, relating to, or derived from living organisms. The chemist’s version uses the word to designate carbon compounds, and that also plays into our garden. But what do most people think of when you say organic? Another definition is simple, healthful, close to nature. Sure, that part fits too. Yet another definition is constituting an integral part of a whole. So what have we got? Organic gardening is a simple healthful way to convert living organisms into carbon compounds in a way that [...] Continue Reading…

The Blackrock Karate Club are now enrolling for free Beginners Classes. Training commences on Thursday February 2nd and are free for the entire month. Ages 6 + are all welcome. The Club is located in the Ursuline Convent in Blackrock Village. Classes are from 6.30 – 7.30 pm twice weekly. Ladies only classes are now also available with Ladies only Black Belt Instructors. For more information please contact 086 – 8872478 or dave_fskaireland@hotmail.com