The Feast of the “holy motorists”

Anyone who read William Mayne’s “Chorister Series” will know today as the Feast of the Holy Motorists — that is St Simon and St Jude, AA. Of course the AA does not refer to the Automobile Association but is simply an abbreviation for Apostles. However, it is a feast day that sticks in my brain … Read more

2020 Irish Poppy pins available

I’m really pleased to see the announcement from the Royal British Legion Republic of Ireland District that this year’s Irish Poppy pin is now available. It’s a new design with the shamrock alongside the familiar red poppy together with the year “2020” on the poppy. As the RBL said: Suggested donation €3/pin + €3.50 p&p … Read more

Concerns of Former Chief Scouts of Ireland – follow up letter to the Scouting Ireland Board

The text following was shared with me last night in order for it to be widely circulated amongst the membership of Scouting Ireland who are very concerned and worried about its lack of direction and development in line with its ethos and fundamentals.  Please feel free to circulate it as widely as possible.  Many thanks, … Read more

Get the Proclamation off the National Flag

It is most unfortunate that Carrolls Irish Gifts are advertising a version of the Irish National Flag with the Proclamation of the Republic in 1916 emblazoned upon it. The guidance on the National Flag from the Government of Ireland is very clear. The National Flag should never be defaced by placing slogans, logos, lettering or … Read more

An exploration of some heritage sites around Portarlington and Co. Laois

An interesting few hours was spent this afternoon in the company of Mr John Stocks Powell, an historian with a particular interest in Portarlington and environs. Having met him by chance about a month ago, whilst out for a walk near Killenard, he invited us to go on a tour of some local places of … Read more