Limerick Federation ICA Notes Week ending May4th

Limerick ICA Group on a visit to Titanic Centre Belfast

Feenagh/Kilmeedy Ladies at An Grianán

A MYSTERY:-

Nine ladies alighted from the ICA bus in Drogheda and the rest continued on their way to An Grianán, Termonfechin, County Louth. We were on our way to Belfast and we were spending the night in the charming manor house run by The Irish Countrywomen’s Association. From the moment we arrived we were met by a warm welcome and cup of tea. There was time to settle in and explore the house and grounds while some made their way to the beach before evening dinner.

Next morning all were up early for a delightful An Grianán breakfast and we set out for Belfast where we visited The Titanic Centre .The story starts in the famous Harland & Wolff ship yard and follows the construction and launch of the Titanic .It gives a glimpse of life on board the Titanic and  traces the story of sad events which followed. Everyone was delighted with the visit to this amazing centre and the use of modern technology was fascinating .We were treated to morning coffee and made an appearance on TV News as The Titanic centre celebrated its first year open to visitors.

The next stop was Stormont where we drove up Prince of Wales Avenue with a spectacular view of the Building. We were met by our guide who brought us through the building and gave an excellent talk on the history of the building. We were taken in to the public gallery to see the Assembly in action so it was quite an interesting experience.

Back again to An Grianán for evening dinner and entertainment. Next morning we set off on a tour of Carlingford Lough and The Cooley Peninsula with a stop off in Tallanstown for all The Tidy towns enthusiasts. The afternoon was spent shopping in Newry and then our trip came to an end with a special word of thanks for organiser Anne Rowlands and driver Dermot Kirby of Kellys Coaches Pallasgreen. If you are wondering about the nine ladies –well they re-joined us later at An Grianán and where they went is still a mystery.

WINNERS ALL:-

Congratulations to Anne Moloney of Grange Guild, Bruff who goes on to represent Limerick in The National Gem Pack cake Competition. Anne presented twelve beautifully decorated cakes on a high plate stand along with the recipes she used.Well done also to the Castleconnell Guild who won the Biddy Mullane Cup for their Craft Board.

Working with SERVE:-

Kate Tobin and William Brown were invited as guest speakers to The AGM of Limerick Federation. They spoke on the work this Organisation does for the women of Thailand and they were hoping ICA Guilds would help them to raise funds. Guilds were asked to hold a coffee morning and sell badges made by the women in this poor area. International Officer Kathleen Griffin will help them so if you need more details contact Kathleen.

Anne Moloney, Grange Guild, Bruff winner of the Gempack Competition

ICA President, Phyllis O Halloran Presenting The Biddy Mullane Cup to Castleconnell Guild, winners of the Craft Board Competition
Patricia Cronin PRO

AUTUMN TOUR:-

Kathleen Griffin is organising a five day trip to the North from Mon Sept 16^th to Friday Sept20th

You will be based in Monaghan and spend a day visiting Derry - City of Culture. Next day is spent in The Glens of Antrim with a visit to The Giants Causeway. The next day is a surprise so book early for this wonderful tour. The total cost for travel and accommodation is €365.

LIMERICK WEEK:-

Anne Rowlands is taking bookings for Limerick week 2013 which takes place from July 8^th to 12^th

The classes this year are Cookery, Your Special Time- Look good, feel good( Mon-Wed) & Image (Thurs), Fit Fun Active, Beaded Jewellery, Digital Photography  - Level 2, Fine Irish Cotton Crochet.

Don’t miss out on this wonderful holiday when you can learn some new skills and enjoy the luxury and comfort of An Grianán not to mention the wonderful food and the fun and entertainment .

FÓGRAÍ:-

May 15^th National AGM , Heritage Hotel, Portlaoise.

May 19^th NBCR walk, Assemble at Catholic Church, Castleconnell at 2pm

June 27^th Summer federation meeting , Deebert House Hotel, Kilmallock.