A major golfing tournament is coming to Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort at the end of this month as the well-known Blessington venue plays host to the penultimate leg of the EuroPro Tour.

The PREM Group Irish Masters, which takes place from Wednesday August 29-31, is part of the third tier tour competition which gives the brightest young talents in European golf the chance to earn a place on the European Challenge Tour.

The Tulfarris event is the only tournament on the EuroPro Tour that will be played outside the British Isles this year, and there is more than €50,000 in prize money available to those competing in next week's three-day competition. The top five golfers at the end of the season will be awarded a category on the 2019 Challenge Tour.

Among those who will be playing is the Tulfarris touring professional and former European Tour winner Simon Thornton. He will also play in the Pro Am event on Tuesday, which will feature a number of celebrities.

Among the stars that will be tackling the beautiful course will be former Irish international soccer star Stephen Hunt and TV personality Brian Ormond, with many more yet to be announced.

They will be joining some of the touring professionals in what promises to be a competitive round, with Tulfarris professional and former European Tour winner Simon Thornton the headline name.

There has been some classy graduates from the EuroPro Tour in recent years, including Major winners Louis Oosthuizen and Carl Schwartzel, while Nicolas Colsaerts and Ross Fisher have represented Europe in the Ryder Cup after playing on the tour early in their careers.

A two-hour highlights package from the tournament will be broadcast on Sky Sports, and on 98 networks around the world beaming the spectacular images of Tufarris Hotel and Golf Resort into 400 million homes.

Jim Murphy, CEO of PREM Group, said; “We are proud to be the title sponsors of The PREM Group Irish Masters at Tulfarris Hotel & Golf Resort Hotel this year and are delighted to announce that we have completed a two year deal with the Euro Pro Tour for Tulfarris to continue to be the host venue for a further two years, until 2020. We have also just signed Simon Thornton as the Tulfarris Hotel and Golf Resort touring professional until the end of 2019. Simon is a wonderful ambassador for Tulfarris and we are very pleased with our association with him.  To have such a major golfing event coming here is a great coup for the golf club and for the area. It’s going to be an incredible, international showcase opportunity for Ireland, Wicklow and for Tulfarris as a two-hour highlights package from the event will be broadcast on Sky Sports, and on 98 networks around the world beaming the spectacular images of the resort and the area into 400 million homes.”

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Michael and Bernie Jacob - the parents of missing Deirdre Jacob say they have spent the last two decades looking at strangers passing by, thinking they see their daughter in the crowd.

The case has been upgraded to a murder investigation following new information.

"The reminders like that are daily and they are so powerful. You could be in Newbridge or Dublin or Cork and you would see someone that might look like her," says Michael.

Bernie continues: "You know the way her hair was? You would glance. The hair from the back..." she says, her voice breaking. "Even driving down our road, you see a girl walking that maybe might look like Deirdre and you have to look again."

Michael describes another fear: "Am I meeting someone going up and down the street that had something to do with this or at least knows something?"

Dealing with the trauma is a moment-to-moment struggle. "You can never say for the next hour you are going to be solid. Because it will hit you very hard at a moment's notice. What hits you hard is that you are in a helpless situation and you can't turn the page."

"You have to try and be positive, otherwise it will bring you down," Bernie says determinedly, "It will consume you." In spite of everything they say they still have "a solid faith".

Bernie adds: "Lots of people, particularly over the last few days and weeks, are saying they are praying for us. And we want them to know we appreciate all that because we need all the help we can get."

Bernie says the couple continue to be driven by the need to find answers. "There were years and months and days when nothing changed so while it has been a very tough week you really feel there is something happening."

"It's like a television screen," Michael adds. "You are looking at something and then the screen goes blank. She was there [and then she was gone]. Everything comes down to that. We don't know what happened next."

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

GALLERY: Taste of Kildare Food Festival at the KClub

PHOTOS BY AISHLING CONWAY

SEE MORE IN NEXT WEEKS KILDARE POST

Renowned TV chef and author Rachel Allen led the line-up at the Taste of Kildare food festival today (Sunday August 19), with large crowds turning out for the inaugural event which also featured other top Irish chefs and a host of food producers.

Other leading Irish chefs, including seafood expert Martin Shanahan, Ross Lewis of Chapter One and the award-winning Thomas Haughton joined in a series of cookery demonstrations and discussions celebrating the best the county’s great restaurants and food producers and suppliers have to offer.

Taking place in the K Club’s Walled Garden, Taste of Kildare featured a vast array of food stands from Kildare’s leading restaurants, producers and suppliers.

"This was such a great food festival as it provided an opportunity to showcase the superb fresh Kildare farm to fork food offering, as well as providing a springboard to the public arena for new local talent," said Rachel Allen.

Local restaurants and suppliers also came together to host a gala lunch in the K Club’s Legacy Suite for 300 guests.

“Food is at the heart of Kildare’s tourist offering, accounting for €2 out of every €5 spent by visitors,” said County Kildare Tourism Development Manager Aine Mangan.

The event will also featured craft beer, wine tasting, children’s activities and music from renowned singer-songwriter Paddy Casey, with visitors also able to view the All-Ireland hurling final live on a big screen.

The festival took place in partnership with Ardstone Homes and Kildare Village with the support of Kildare County Council.

Allan Shine, Roisin Crotty, Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Rachel Allen

Amy O'Neill from Kildare Brewing, Sallins

Brian Donovan, Sallyann Shaw, Mark Shaw, Noirin Donovan and Ann Shaw

Celebrity Chef Rachel Allen and Nathan Diamond (Head Chef Cliff at Lyons Estate)

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) with Deirdre Hanley, Eileen Scullion, Alison Johnston, Jisell Mansfield, Sinead Grace and Paula Ward from Kildare Village

Jim and Hilary Cahill (Punchestown Racecourse)

Lina Zalyte and Pablo Bernardo from Vie de Chateaux

Niall Morrissey (Kildare Co.Council), Mayor of Kildare Sean Power and Chief Executive Kildare County Council Peter Carey

Orlaith and Owen Edwards

Chief Executive Kildare County Council Peter Carey and Catherine Carey

Celebrity Chef Rachel Allen

Rachel Allen and Hilary Cahill (Punchestown)

KCLUB Chefs Sam Courtney, Marie O'Connor and Daniel Ennis

Sinead Mahony with her gran Maria Deegan

KCLUB Chefs Sam Courtney, Marie O'Connor and Daniel Ennis

Sarah Coyne, Dee Nix (General Manager) Phil Gleeson (Head Chef) and Grainne O'Donnell) from Killashee House Hotel

Sinead and Allan Shine with Roisin Crotty

Stephen and Oscar Walsh

Thomas Haughton, Martin Shanahan, John Healy, Rachel Allen, Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Ross Lewis

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Alison Johnston (Kildare Village)

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte), Rachel Allen, Gillian Pierce and Carlo Boersma from Carton House

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) with her family

Breda, Aine, Mairead and Siobhan Mangan

Camila Grey from the Lemongrass Restaurant Naas alongside chefs Nazrul Faiz, Syed Faiz and Zabir Kusuan

Rachel Allen and Nathan Diamond (Cliff at Lyons estate)

Martin Shanahan pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Martin Shanahan and Ross Lewis pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

On the sofa with the Head Chefs
pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Ciara and Jim Phibbs pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Attracta and David Mongey

Dorou Udovic and Tony Keogh from Fallons of Kilcullen

Emer McCabe (Osprey Hotel, NAAS)

Orlaith Hennessy ,Elaine Dunne, Caroline Brady and Louise Meagher

Head Chef Nathan Diamond (Cliff at Lyons Estate) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Jada Latifi (Bridgehouse Hotel, Tullamore) and Paula O'Rourke (Nature Made Ltd) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Jana Samalova (Silken Thomas, Kildare Town) with Shirley Flanagan and Emer Flanagan) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Joe Boland and Nicola Zammit (Two Cooks, Sallins) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Joe Flanagan and Brian Fallon pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Lina Zalyte and Pablo Bernardo from Vie de Chateaux pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

TD Fiona O'Loughlin with Mary Power, Helen Ryan, Catherine Flanagan and Niamh Swail pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Philip Maher (Brown Bear Twomile House)

Shane Fox and Barry Liscombe from Hartes of Kildare pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Tom Phelan, Barbara Sheridan (Editor Kildare Nationalist), Laura Coates (Editor Leinster Leader) and Marie Coates pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Martin Shanahan, John Healy, Rachel Allen and Ross Lewis pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Eloise, Celeste and Marianne Cassidy

Thomas Haughton Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Thomas Haughton Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Rachel Allen Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Barry Flanagan from Kildare Brewing at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Photos by Ben Kelly

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

GALLERY: Taste of Kildare Food Festival at the KClub

PHOTOS BY AISHLING CONWAY

Renowned TV chef and author Rachel Allen led the line-up at the Taste of Kildare food festival today (Sunday August 19), with large crowds turning out for the inaugural event which also featured other top Irish chefs and a host of food producers.

Other leading Irish chefs, including seafood expert Martin Shanahan, Ross Lewis of Chapter One and the award-winning Thomas Haughton joined in a series of cookery demonstrations and discussions celebrating the best the county’s great restaurants and food producers and suppliers have to offer.

Taking place in the K Club’s Walled Garden, Taste of Kildare featured a vast array of food stands from Kildare’s leading restaurants, producers and suppliers.

"This was such a great food festival as it provided an opportunity to showcase the superb fresh Kildare farm to fork food offering, as well as providing a springboard to the public arena for new local talent," said Rachel Allen.

Local restaurants and suppliers also came together to host a gala lunch in the K Club’s Legacy Suite for 300 guests.

“Food is at the heart of Kildare’s tourist offering, accounting for €2 out of every €5 spent by visitors,” said County Kildare Tourism Development Manager Aine Mangan.

The event will also featured craft beer, wine tasting, children’s activities and music from renowned singer-songwriter Paddy Casey, with visitors also able to view the All-Ireland hurling final live on a big screen.

The festival took place in partnership with Ardstone Homes and Kildare Village with the support of Kildare County Council.

Barry Flanagan from Kildare Brewing at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Rachel Allen Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Thomas Haughton Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Thomas Haughton Cookery demo pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Eloise, Celeste and Marianne Cassidy pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Martin Shanahan, John Healy, Rachel Allen and Ross Lewis pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Tom Phelan, Barbara Sheridan (Editor Kildare Nationalist), Laura Coates (Editor Leinster Leader) and Marie Coates pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Shane Fox and Barry Liscombe from Hartes of Kildare pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Philip Maher (Brown Bear Twomile House) 

TD Fiona O'Loughlin with Mary Power, Helen Ryan, Catherine Flanagan and Niamh Swail 

Lina Zalyte and Pablo Bernardo from Vie de Chateaux pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Joe Flanagan and Brian Fallon pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Joe Boland and Nicola Zammit (Two Cooks, Sallins) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Jana Samalova (Silken Thomas, Kildare Town) with Shirley Flanagan and Emer Flanagan) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Jada Latifi (Bridgehouse Hotel, Tullamore) and Paula O'Rourke (Nature Made Ltd) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Head Chef Nathan Diamond (Cliff at Lyons Estate) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Orlaith,Elaine Dunne, Caroline Brady and Louise Meagher

Emer McCabe (Osprey Hotel, NAAS) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Dorou Udovic and Tony Keogh from Fallons of Kilcullen 

Attracta and David Mongey

Ciara and Jim Phibbs pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

On the sofa with the Head Chefs
pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Martin Shanahan and Ross Lewis pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Martin Shanahan pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Rachel Allen and Nathan Diamond (Cliff at Lyons estate) pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Camila  Grey from the Lemongrass Restaurant Naas alongside chefs Nazrul Faiz, Syed Faiz and Zabir Kusuan pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Breda, Aine, Mairead and Siobhan Mangan pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club.

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) with her family pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte), Rachel Allen, Gillian Pierce and Carlo Boersma from Carton House pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival gala banquet at the K Club. 

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Alison Johnston (Kildare Village) 

Thomas Haughton, Martin Shanahan, John Healy, Rachel Allen, Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Ross Lewis pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Stephen and Oscar Walsh pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden. 

Sinead and Allan Shine with Roisin Crotty 

Sarah Coyne, Dee Nix (General Manager) Phil Gleeson (Head Chef) and Grainne O'Donnell) from Killashee House Hotel 

KCLUB Chefs Sam Courtney, Marie O'Connor and Daniel Ennis 

Sinead Mahony with her gran Maria Deegan y

KCLUB Chefs Sam Courtney, Marie O'Connor and Daniel Ennis

Rachel Allen and Hilary Cahill (Punchestown) 

Celebrity Chef Rachel Allen pictured at the Taste of Kildare festival in the K Club’s walled garden.

Chief Executive Kildare County Council Peter Carey and Catherine Carey 

Orlaith and Owen Edwards 

Niall Morrissey (Kildare Co.Council), Mayor of Kildare Sean Power and Chief Executive Kildare County Council Peter Carey 

Lina Zalyte and Pablo Bernardo from Vie de Chateaux, Naas 

Jim and Hilary Cahill (Punchestown Racecourse) 

Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) with Deirdre Hanley, Eileen Scullion, Alison Johnston, Jisell Mansfield, Sinead Grace and Paula Ward from Kildare Village

Celebrity Chef Rachel Allen and Nathan Diamond (Head Chef Cliff at Lyons Estate) 

Brian Donovan, Sallyann Shaw, Mark Shaw, Noirin Donovan and Ann Shaw 

Amy O'Neill from Kildare Brewing, Sallins 

Allan Shine, Roisin Crotty, Aine Mangan (Kildare Failte) and Rachel Allen 

SEE MORE IN NEXT WEEKS KILDARE POST

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Just after confirmation that Myles and Ivan Carroll had won the final of the Mens' C Doubles at the World Handball Championships, KildareNow has just learnt that fellow club man Mick Dowling paired with Robbie McCarthy from Westmeath have won the Over 55 final.

That's two world titles for the small club in Ballymore Eustace which has consistently produced winners at county, Leinster, Masters and All-Ireland level.

The Carroll cousins who hail from Dunlavin, are members of Ballymore Eustace Handball Club and defeated Troy Flanagan and Dainel Farrelly 21-18, 21-4.

Mick Dowling (Kildare) and Robbie McCarthy (Westmeath) defeated the USA pairing of Amijo and Brennan, 21-6, 21-16.

A jubilant Gavin Grace, PRO of Ballymore Eustace Handball Club congratulated the two successful pairs  and was speechless with excitement, save to say "C'mon the More!

Featured photo shows Mick and Robbie, photographed with Michael's sister Mairead Gleeson and mother, Maggie Dowling.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

GALLERY: Family Fun Day at Enquiring Minds Childcare in Prosperous

PHOTOS BY AISHLING CONWAY

SEE MORE PHOTOS IN NEXT WEEKS KILDARE POST

Andrew Johnston

Stephanie Johnston

Andrew Johnston

Harry Morley Kavanagh

Harry Morley Kavanagh

Amelie Morley Kavanagh

Damien Cassidy

Damien Cassidy

Fiona Morris, Shauna Gaynor and Michelle Farrell

Saoirse Lally

Tom, Finn and Enda O'Brien

Nathan and Ava Wilkinson

Catherine and Mary Dunne

Devran, Emre, Yalcin and Tara Yildirim

Marcel, Max and Julia Buksar

Enquiring Minds Staff - Terri Wilkinson (Montessori Teacher), Davile Cassidy (Montessori Teacher), Victoria Matten (Early childcare practitioner), Clare Venter (Owner), Paula Junquera (Manager), Nicola O'Malley (Regional Manager), Diane Melia (Admin service manager) and Amanda Kielty (Early years practitioner)

Paula Junquera (Manager),Clare Venter (Owner) and Nicola O'Malley (Regional Manager)

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

By Kim O'Leary

Residents living in St Dominick's Park in Newbridge are calling for action to be taken after in vehicles owned by non-residents being parked around the estate, blocking the nearby pedestrian walk way and causing other access issues for the housing estate.

Speaking to KildareNow about the illegal parking by non-residents in St Dominick's Park, one concerned resident said: "St Dominick's Park is been used as a free parking lot for Non Residents we can't even get through our pedestrian walk way women with buggys, elderly residents with walking aids."

A car with windows broken in parked in the housing estate

She said:"This is terrible as a resident it needs highlighting its a private housing estate, not a dumping ground. The people cars in these pixs are NOT Residents and have no permits or permission to park there and we're blocked in from walking through."

Meanwhile, a taxi was spotted parked in the housing estate recently.

A taxi was spotted parked illegally in the housing estate recently.

According to the resident: "This Driver is foreign national he lives in Ramblers court apartments he is parked in a private housing estate he has no permission he's that mean he wont pay €5 for a permit outside his own door this is my argument this has to stop."

The residents say that they are putting up with non-residents parking their cars outside their homes 'daily' and they have also said that they are currently engaging in talks with Kildare County Council and TDs to take action concerning the illegal parking.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

By Kim O'Leary

A concerned KildareNow reader has contacted us with video footage filmed over the weekend showing the shocking build-up of rubbish under the bridge in the town of Newbridge.

It is understood that the rubbish has been building up for several months, and the reader said that the rubbish is precariously close to where families visit.

He said: "This was under the bridge in Newbridge, disgusting seeing this so close to where families bring their children to play in the river and feed the Ducks/Swans and other birds. Obviously the Guards know about this and should definitely install CCTV to catch the culprits red handed."

Bottles and cans are wedged under the bridge

According to the reader, he has contacted several local councillors regarding the issue. Meanwhile, Independent Cllr Fiona McLoughlin Healy said that she intended to raise the issue with Kildare County Council and that she has shared the video with the environment services for their attention.

The video has thus far been shared over 100 times reaching as far as Limerick and Galway, with calls for Kildare County Council to clean the rubbish and to also install CCTV to deter people from dumping rubbish illegally in the area.

The reader added: "What's needed is a Garda to do a foot patrol at irregular times to off put the perpetrators and or a CCTV camera even a dummy one to scare them off, I know that will only entice them to go elsewhere but at least children that enjoy the park can be a little safer from the dirty foil or worse that's left behind."

He continued: "I'm actually shocked at the response and even people as far as Limerick and Galway are sharing it, hopefully the people in power will address the issue down there, as public lighting won't deter them as they do it in broad daylight anyway and in front of people as they've no shame."

https://mbasic.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=684995415185185&id=100010241971845&_rdr

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

The successful Kildare Under 20s team have been invited by the Curragh races on this Saturday to celebrate their recent All Ireland success.

A presentation will be made to them by the Racecourse and a race will be named Kildare Under 20s “All Ireland Champions” Handicap.

The race day on Saturday features a competitive 7 race programme, while it will also be one of the first official events for the newly-crowned Rose of Tralee to attend.

She will be one of the judges for the Search for the Best Accessorised Ensemble Competition.

The prize bonanza will be include a series of the Tipperary Crystal Fine jewellery ranges and a range of high quality products from the Tipperary Crystal Handbag Giftware and Homeware Collections.

Racing also takes place on Sunday with a high quality programme includes the Galileo Futurity Stakes and Debutante Stakes, together with the Tipperary Crystal Ladies Invitational Race featuring for some of the leading female jockeys from around the world.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Co Kildare's Defence Forces Training Centre will be holding a scheme for unemployed  young people on the Live Register this October.

Minister with Responsibility for Defence, Mr Paul Kehoe, T.D., last Thursday, welcomed the graduation of 24 young jobseekers who participated in the Defence Forces Employment Support Scheme at Collins Barracks, Cork.

The 24 participants, 23 from Cork and one from Dublin, were presented with their graduation certificates at the ceremony which was presided over by the General Officer Commanding No. 1 Brigade, Brigadier General Patrick Flynn. Also in attendance was Deputy Chief of Staff Kieran Brennan.

In a Defence Forces statement, it said: "The scheme is an innovative joint initiative between the Department of Defence, the Defence Forces, the Department of Social Protection and the Education and Training Boards Ireland.  The collaboration stems from a Government commitment in the White Paper on Defence, 2015 and in the Programme for Government.  The scheme is co-funded by the Irish Government, the European Social Fund (ESF) and the Youth Employment Initiative as part of the ESF Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning 2014 – 2020."

The statement said: "This voluntary scheme is targeted at 18-24 year olds who are on the Live Register.  It aims to provide participants with the knowledge and skills that will assist them to participate fully in society, and enhance their capacity to pursue employment, work experience or further educational opportunities.  A central element throughout the programme is to enhance the self-confidence and personal drive of the participants by building their training and physical capability."

Minister Kehoe extends his warmest congratulations to all of the participants for the commitment they have made. He states that “they have all been on a fantastic journey of learning and self-discovery. They, together with their families and friends can be justifiably proud of their learning, training and physical achievements.”

In recognising the role of the Defence Forces, Minister Kehoe said “The Defence Forces has an exceptional record in creating leaders and decision makers. The Employment Support Scheme has provided the benefit of that experience; this, coupled with the education component, will set the participants apart from other jobseekers” 

Brigadier General Flynn congratulated each participant on their achievement in successfully completing the programme and stated that it is a milestone in their professional and personal development.

A Defence Forces statement said: "The objective of the scheme is to help develop a path to economic independence for unemployed participants, aged between 18 and 24, who are at a distinct disadvantage in terms of being able to develop their personal well-being and capacity with a view to advancing their job prospects.  The scheme encompasses a training programme of 10 weeks duration, consisting of five weeks of military-orientated training by the Defence Forces interspersed with 5 weeks of education-orientated training."

The Ballymun Job Centre assisted in the Initiative by working with the participants on personal development aspects of the programme.

This programme, based at Collins Barracks, Cork and involving 24 participants commenced in June of this year and ran for 10 weeks. The next programme for up to 30 participants is planned to commence in October based in the Defence Forces Training Centre, Curragh.

Meanwhile, earlier this week, a Curragh based soldier highlighted the financial difficulties that his family are enduring due to inadequate pay and conditions.

The father of three, who does not wish to be named said that both himself and his wife are 'lying awake' at night wondering if they can borrow again to ensure that their children get an education.

This also comes at a time when Defence Forces members are being told that they will just get €48 security allowance per day  on top of their basic wages to cover the Pope's upcoming visit.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

(Pictured at the Concern Debates National Final 2013 at the City North Hotel were the Winners from Newbridge College Team Captain Grainne Carr with trophy)

Kildare Rose Gráinne Carr will feature on tonight's first televised broadcast of The Rose of Tralee competition 2018 as the televised finals kick off this week.

Concern Worldwide is today extending its best wishes to Rose of Tralee contestant and former All-Ireland Concern Debates champion Gráinne Carr who will this week represent Co Kildare in the annual Rose of Tralee contest, with more than 57 contestants in all having travelled from around the world to take part in the festival now in its 59th year.

The international aid agency is proud to have the Kildare Rose as a volunteer adjudicator for Concern Debates – a nationwide school debating contest that gives teenagers a platform to discuss global development issues.

Gráinne captained the winning Concern Debates team for Newbridge College in 2013 and, as part of their prize, travelled to see some of Concern’s life-changing development work in Ethiopia.

Concern’s Head of Active Citizenship, Michael Doorly, said: “Concern would like to wish Gráinne Carr, the Kildare Rose and former All-Ireland Concern Debates champion, the very best of luck in this year’s Rose of Tralee competition. Gráinne has been an exceptional ambassador and advocate for Concern’s work with some of world’s poorest people.”

Concern – which is marking its 50th anniversary this year – created Concern Debates in 1984 to challenge students to debate global development issues.

Any school interested in taking part in this year’s Concern Debates or any individual who would like to judge the debates in their local schools – just like Gráinne Carr – can email debates@concern.net.

The very best of luck to Gráinne tonight as the well-known show airs its first episode tonight from the Dome in Kerry at 8pm on RTE1, and the live finals will continue at the same time on Tuesday where the winner of 59th The Rose of Tralee 2018 will be announced.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

GALLERY: Back to School Healthy Lunchtime Demo's at Monread Centre Naas

PHOTOS BY AISHLING CONWAY

SEE MORE PHOTOS IN NEXT WEEKS KILDARE POST

Skaiste Vistockis

Elise Whelan and Joe Greene with Finn and Sam Walsh

Mario's back to school lunch demonstrations at Tesco Monread

Emma Farrell gets her face painted

Tiarnah, Darcey and James Egan

Marios's lunchtime demo at Tesco Monread

Mario's lunch time demonstrations in Tesco Monread with Mario, Elise Whelan and Joe Greene

Mario's lunch time demonstrations in Tesco Monread with Laura Farrell, Alexandra Reid and Emma Farrell

Benediktas and Jokubas Visockis

Skaiste Vistockis with her brother at Marios's lunchtime demo

Mario's Back to School lunch demonstrations

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

As commuter traffic gets ready to return to peak levels in September, Acquired Brain Injury Ireland is calling on anyone cycling to work to wear a helmet at all times, even on short journeys.

According to the national charity which is the leading provider of neuro-rehabilitation around the country, wearing a cycle helmet dramatically reduces the risk of a serious head or brain injury in the event of a collision. In Dublin alone, commuter cyclist figures are expected to return to more than 12,000 people cycling into the city in the mornings.

Last month (July) the Road Safety Authority’s mid-year review confirmed the deaths of six pedal users on Irish roads so far this year. This follows a 50% increase in cyclist fatalities in 2017.

Barbara O’Connell, Chief Executive with Acquired Brain Injury Ireland said: “Nobody ever thinks a brain injury will happen to them and yet it happens to 35 people in this country every day.  The reality is that regardless of whether people are cycling five minutes or an hour, unforeseen events can happen that can cause any cyclist to suddenly come off that bike.

“With the convenience of services like commuter bikes in our cities, it’s not hard to spot cyclists without helmets. But what those cyclists are not thinking about is that a fall off their bike could leave them with a chronic and ongoing condition that can affect their lives and those of their family for months, years and even decades after the initial injury. Wearing a helmet reduces the severity of the brain injury by absorbing the impact from the collision. This, in turn, reduces the amount of time a person spends in recovery and rehabilitation.”

Australian researchers in 2016 showed that cycle helmets reduced the risk of serious head injury by nearly 70% and that of fatal head injury by 65%.

Acquired Brain Injury Ireland is Ireland’s leading provider of community rehabilitation for those of working age (18-65 years) living with and recovering from an acquired brain injury. At any one time, the national not-for-profit organisation delivers dedicated individual rehabilitation and support to 1,100 brain injury survivors and their families, to rebuild their lives.

For more information see www.abiireland.ie

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

A substantial residential development site in Newbridge has been brought to the market by Jordan’s Estate Agents with a guide price of €4 million.

This development site is zoned residential under the Newbridge Local Area Plan which states the site could cater for 255 residential units, and although no planning permission is currently in place, the site is ideally located on the outskirts of the town for a residential scheme. The site extends to approx. 8.09 ha (20 acre).

Located in Newbridge, on the Great Connell Road, the site offers any developer the opportunity to acquire a strategic site in Newbridge benefiting from its proximity to the Main Streets, M7 motorway and many amenities within the town.

Paddy Jordan of Jordan’s Estate Agents commented:

“The property offers an exceptional development opportunity in Newbridge. The site has been zoned by Newbridge Local Area Plan as residential.  

"This zoning objective allows for a residential led development, subject to the necessary planning approval and hence expect strong interest.

"Furthermore, Newbridge is an expanding commuter town and this land holding, close to the town centre, railway and Motorway represents an excellent opportunity”

Newbridge is an important and established commercial town located approximately 48km from Dublin, 10km from Kildare, 39km from Celbridge and 38km from Maynooth, all of which are important commuter towns surrounding Dublin City and County.

Newbridge is the largest town in County Kildare with a population in excess of 22,700 per the 2016 Census and is regarded as the commercial capital enjoying excellent transport links including Mainline & Commuter Rail services, Public and Private Bus networks and excellent road infrastructure.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

The relics of St Louis and St Zelie Martin will visit Kildare Town this evening, as part of the World Meeting of Families.

The relics will arrive at the Parish Church in  Kildare Town tonight from 8pm.

The sacred objects will then travel via a procession to the Carmelite Church on Green Road, where they will remain until 9.30am on Tuesday morning.

The parents of St Therese of Lisieux, the relics of St Louis and Zelie will also be presented at the Papal Mass in the Phoenix Park on Saturday, for the arrival of Pope Francis.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Kildare County Council are now allocated €12million in funding to provide affordable loans in a new scheme.

The benefits of this loan is that the borrowing rate of 2% fixed for 25 years.

Kildare Co Cllr Suzanne Doyle is holding the information evening at Newbridge Town Hall, between 7.30pm and 8.30pm, on Thursday, August 30, next.

She said: " This is a very worthwhile avenue for anyone trying to get on the home ownership ladder. Eoin McGee, financial consultant from ‘Crowded House’ will be attending to give advice. I will have forms on hand but for those who cannot attend or want information in advance."

Cllr Doyle added: "They must have two refusals from private banking and demonstrate an ability to pay, this will require savings, which will also be necessary as the loan amount cannot be for more than 90% of house value, upper limit of borrowing in Kildare is€ 288,000, and upper limit of income for eligibility is €50,000 single income and €75,000 dual income. The benefits of this loan is that the borrowing rate of 2% fixed for 25 years. The degree of certainty this gives low income families is very attractive and will insulate them from any possible or some might say guaranteed market fluctuation in the future."

The maximum market value differs depending on where your home is located. The maximum market value is:

• €320,000 in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kildare, Louth, Meath and Wicklow
• €250,000 in the rest of the country

You need to show that you can afford your monthly mortgage repayments, which must be less than one-third of your household income. You can use the Home Loan Calculator on rebuildingirelandhomeloan.ieto get an estimate of how much you can borrow and what your repayments will be.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

The death has occurred of Samuel (Sam) CLARKE (pictured)
Portarlington, Laois; St. John’s Drive, Clondalkin, Dublin 

Clarke Samuel (Sam), Portarlington and formerly St. John’s Drive, Clondalkin. August 17th 2018 (peacefully) in Our Lady’s Hospice, Harold’s Cross. Beloved husband of Patricia and devoted Dad to Sharon, Anthony, Tracey, Sarah-Jane and Alan. Cherished granddad to his 12 grandchildren and the Late Craig, his brothers, sisters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, extended family and friends.

May he Rest in Peace

Reposing on Monday between 4pm and 7pm at his daughter Sarah Jane’s home in Rathcoole. Funeral Service on Tuesday at 2.30pm in Newlands Crematorium Chapel followed by Cremation. Family flowers only please, donations, if desired, to Our Lady’s Hospice, Harold’s Cross. (Donation Box in Newlands Chapel). All enquiries to Massey Bros., Clondalkin Village on 01 4574455.

The death has occurred of Ethna FANNING (née Harrigan)
Old Greenfield, Maynooth, Kildare / Leixlip, Kildare

Fanning (Nee Harrigan), Ethna, Old Greenfield, Maynooth & late of Green Lane, Leixlip, Co. Kildare, August 18th 2018, peacefully at her residence, after a short illness, deeply regretted by her loving husband Michael, daughter Sharon & her partner Robbie, son John, daughter-in-law Trina, grandchildren Daniel, Sophia & Isabel, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours & close friends.   Rest In Peace.   Reposing at Reilly's Funeral Home, Leinster St., Maynooth on Tuesday from 5-8pm, with prayers at 7pm. Removal on Wednesday morning at 10.30am to arrive at St. Mary's Church, Maynooth for 11am Funeral Mass, followed by burial in Laraghbryan Cemetery.

The death has occurred of Gertrude (Gertie) MURPHY (née Somers)
Donnybrook, Dublin / Naas, Kildare

	Murphy (née Somers), Gertrude (Gertie) (late of Ailesbury Road, and formerly of Dublin Road, Naas) – August 18th, 2018, in the care of the staff of St. John’s House Nursing Home, Merrion Road. Beloved wife of the late Joseph (Joe). Deeply regretted by her loving brothers, family relations, neighbours and friends.   May she Rest in Peace
Funeral Arrangements Later

The death has occurred of Brendan NOLAN
7 Rushbrooke Terrace, Cobh, Cork / Newbridge, Kildare

Unexpectedly but peacefully. Beloved husband & best friend of Breda (nee Kennedy) & devoted dad to Maddy & Florin & dear brother of Shay, Kier & Eamon. Sadly missed by his loving wife & family. brothers, mother-in-law Kay, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives & a large circle of friends.   May He Rest In Peace   Reposing at his home on Tuesday August 21st from 5pm to 7pm. (House private outside of these times please). Reception into St. Colman's Cathedral on Wednesday August 22nd at 9.30 am for 10am Requiem Mass followed by private cremation at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. No Flowers Please Donations in lieu, if desired, to Pieta House or Muscular Dystrophy Ireland "Our Lives will never be the same"

The death has occurred of David Michael LOUGHMAN
The Moate, Ardschull, Athy, Kildare

David Loughman Snr. The Moate, Ardscull, formerly of Loughman’s Garage, Athy, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 while in the care of the Matron and staff of St. Joseph’s Ward, St. Vincent’s Hospital, Athy, surrounded by his loving family. He will be greatly missed by his family, neighbours and extended community. May David Rest in Peace. Reposing at Thompson's Funeral Home on Tuesday 21st August from 10am to 2pm, and thereafter at his home from 4pm to 8pm. Removal on Wednesday 22nd August to arrive at St. Michael's Parish Church for requiem Mass at 11am, followed by burial in St. Michael's New Cemetery, Athy. House private on Wednesday morning please. Funeral Cortege will drive from his home to the church. Family flowers only. Donations if desired to the Friends of St. Vincent's Hospital, Athy. Donation box in church.

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.

Having become the face of the Life Style Sports new Back to School campaign, Stand Out in a World of Uniform, Kildare model, James MacDougald, 9, from Naas is showing kids everywhere how they can express their personal style in the school yard this year.

With school dress code rules, expressing your personal style can be a challenge, but Life Style Sports, Ireland’s largest sports fashion retailer, is here to help you stand out in a world of uniform! A new school year is the perfect chance to get your style in check and Life Style Sports is the best place to pick out a bag that reflects your personality, along with other term time essentials for the new season ahead.

Bags are the ultimate way to make a style statement & stand out from the crowd as you enter a new class and with Life Style Sports students can opt to personalise their bags with customisation too! If you’re into keeping it simple and cool, why not opt for an adidas Originals Classic Backpack (from €30), available in pink, blue and black, or for a more stand out look, choose the adidas Originals Animal Print Backpack (€40), emblazoned with the iconic logo and including a laptop sleeve, exterior storage compartment and a padded back and straps, for extra comfort on the go.

The Jansport Big Student Backpack (€70) works for kids carrying around heavy books, with compartments to fit everything from binders, to stationary, to those all-important snacks, it’s a long-standing favourite with parents as it also comes with a lifelong warranty! If making a bold statement is more up your street, the Nike Elemental Air Backpack (€30) in a standout red will be sure to make heads turn and help you secure top marks for style - it also comes with a matching pencil case for the win!

Hauling dem’ books just got a whole lot more stylish this year, with thanks to the Puma Buzz Backpack (€30) - even though camouflage usually means blending in, this blue and black camo print bag, with two A4 compartments, a laptop sleeve and water bottle pocket will see you standing out in the yard. If superheroes are more your thing, the Vans Realm Marvel Backpack (€45) is a bang on-trend bag for this September! This bag showcases the women of Marvel in a special graphic print on the main compartment, paired with the classic Vans checkerboard print on the exterior compartment.

There are a range of options for football fans, including the Nike Neymar Backpack (€30) in black with a striking gold graphic, padded straps and a laptop sleeve is bound to shoot you straight to the top of the style leaderboard, or perhaps choose to stash your essentials in something classic and sporty like the Ellesse Khaki Sarral Backpack (€35), which has lots of space for all your bits and bobs with 2 x A4 compartments and water bottle pocket.

Still not sure what bag to buy? To help you decide, here’s 7 top tips from the experts at Life Style Sports to help you pick the bag that’s best for you:

• Stand Out! - with school rules in place, expressing your personal style can be a challenge, so pick a bag that lets your personality shine through and stand out in a world of uniform. For a bag that makes it ‘personal’ why not opt for bag customisation, which allows you to get up to 8 characters (including symbols) on your bag for €5, available on LifeStyleSports.com
• Support - padding on the straps and back will provide you with extra comfort for those days when your books are weighing you down
• Water resistant – Though we hope the sun decides to stay, this added feature will make sure you don’t wreck your expensive books and laptop when those rainy days kick in
• Size - make sure it fits all of your A4 books and notepads, along with being perfect for your height so that you’ve optimum weight distribution and it doesn’t get too heavy when it’s overloaded!
• Multi compartments – get organised and make things easy to find with a bag that has multiple compartments, along with an extra holding place for your water bottle to stay hydrated when the homework hits hard

• Added value - an added bonus is if your bag comes with a free pencil case or laptop sleeve. Look out for those extras to help you be extra!

• Long lasting – For those who are in it for the long haul, a lifelong warrantee gives you bang for your buck

If you have a story or want to send photos or videos to us please contact the KildareNow editorial team. via our Facebook, via our email at content@kildarenow.com or on 045 409350 during office hours.