County Mayor's column: Initiatives demonstrate commitment to progress, culture, health, and sustainability in Cork

I CANNOT believe we are heading into the second week of September, hasn’t the weather over the last few days been just wonderful.

Lifting all our spirits before we head into the winter. The country roads are very busy with harvesters and tractors and trailers. Literally a mad dash to make hay while the sun shines.

N73

As Cork County has the largest road network in Ireland, improvements are very welcome. I was delighted to announce a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance our county’s infrastructure.

The N73 Annakisha Road Improvement Scheme is set to transform a 3.5km section of the N73 National Secondary Route, a vital link between the East and Southwest, and a gateway to the N8/M8 to Dublin via Mitchelstown.

Construction has already commenced, and we anticipate the project will take approximately 18 months to complete. While this may cause some temporary inconveniences due to traffic management, please bear with us as we work towards a brighter, safer future for Cork County.

Medicine disposal

Staying with the practical, I would encourage all of you to avail of the opportunity to dispose of unused medicines properly (DUMP) during the campaign which returns to Cork and Kerry from September 4 to October 15.

This invaluable initiative offers a free collection service at local pharmacies for the safe disposal of unused or expired prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

By participating in DUMP, you not only protect your loved ones from potential harm but also contribute to environmental conservation. Storing unused medicines poses risks such as accidental poisoning, improper sharing, and environmental damage.

Let us join hands in keeping our homes and environment safe. I could not believe that in 2022, almost seven tonnes of medicines, were safely disposed of as part of this vital campaign. That is the equivalent of a commercial truck with a 48ft enclosed trailer, that is a lot of potentially dangerous product out of circulation safely.

Exhibition

I’d strongly recommend that you avail of the opportunity to see and visit the “Matrix” Exhibition at LHQ Gallery by Artist Przemyslaw Richter. Richter, a graduate of MTU Crawford College of Art and Design and recipient of our Arts Office Bursary, explores the intricate genetic patterns found in human body parts through biometric technology. Art has the power to inspire, challenge, and provoke thought and this exhibition is no exception, as Richter explores the intricate genetic patterns found in human body parts through biometric technology. This exhibition encourages us to contemplate the uniqueness of our individual biometrics, often taken for granted in the age of technology. The exhibition is running from September 8th to October 20th so plenty of time to schedule a visit in.

Awards

Finally, I am thrilled to launch the inaugural Cork County Council “Best in Cork” Awards. These awards aim to recognise and celebrate the remarkable contributions of businesses and tourism providers to our county’s prosperity and sustainability.

I would encourage businesses of all sizes and sectors to apply. These awards spotlight sustainability efforts, acknowledging businesses that have taken steps to save energy, reduce waste, and promote environmental consciousness. The winners will be celebrated at a gala ceremony on January 25, 2024, where I will announce the Mayor’s Best Overall Business.

Together, let’s recognise and celebrate the diverse enterprises that enrich our lives, provide vital services, and contribute to our communities. Applications are open now, and I encourage everyone to take part in this celebration of Cork County’s finest.

Everything I’ve highlighted in this column I hope demonstrates our commitment to progress, culture, health, and sustainability in this vibrant and dynamic place we call home, Cork County.