All About Cork: Derek publishes his second volume of short stories

A Ballyphehane author has published his second volume of short stories, with one story being set in Tory Top Park.

Cork based teacher, head coach at UCC Soccer Club and Deerpark, Ballyphehane resident, author Derek O’Gorman sets many of his stories in Cork.

His new book ‘And on The Third Day’ is a follow up short story collection from the successful debut anthology ‘Barred’.

The Cork author’s first collection of short stories was published in 2023, and presents a varied cast of protagonists, some hardened by life and some still vulnerable.

The stories explore how fate can shape the path of life - life’s ups and downs, peaks, troughs, and redemptive moments. The dreamers in these stories look to forge better lives for themselves.

His new collection, ‘And on the Third Day’ serves as a sequel to ‘Barred: Short Stories’.

It exploresthe subjects of fate, the human condition, and the complexities of individuals and their sense of belonging.

Among the stories, ‘Heroes’ follows the struggles of two young couples attempting to survive in a city on the cusp of rebellion.

‘And On The Third Day’ explores the trauma experienced by family and friends following the tragic drowning of a young man in a river.

‘Aisling’ centers around a mother eagerly awaiting the return of her husband and children for a planned children’s party. However, the anticipation is met with an extended wait.

‘Before the Houses’ examines the strained relationship between a daughter and her mother, who is gradually succumbing to dementia.

‘1972’ is set during a sweltering summer in France, where a group of Irish female footballers are guests of a contemplative order of nuns near Paris.

Among Mr O’Donovan’s awards are the VSA Playwright Award, the Cork Arts Theatre Playwright Award, UCC DRAMAT Playwright Award, and the UCC Alumni Short Story Award. His work has won the All-Ireland One-Act play award on two occasions, been produced on RTÉ National Radio, and been adapted for short films, most notably for the Cork Midsummer Festival in 2021.

His new collection is now available from sulisinternationalpress.com, Amazon and other outlets in paperback, eBook and audio versions.

Vigilance urged over drug litter

Residents are being warned to stay vigilant as drug litter has been reported in the Turner’s Cross area.

Joe Curtin, a youth worker in the area, has shared advice in response to reports of drug-related litter being found in and around the locality.

“Drug litter or injecting equipment is hazardous. If you come across a needle or spoon, do not attempt to remove it yourself. Drug litter needs to be disposed of by people who know how. So instead of picking it up, pick up the phone.

“If the reported drug-related issues and hazardous behaviour continue, a meeting should be convened with relevant agencies and elected representatives to discuss practical solutions for the Turner’s Cross community.”

For the collection of needles in public areas, Cork City Council has two dedicated phone numbers:

n 1800 22 22 26 freephone number, open from 9am to 5pm;

n 021-4966512, out of hours service.

To contact a needle exchange worker who can provide information and address any queries, call 086-0255410.

Free further education

Cork College of Further Education and Training’s (FET) Tramore Road Campus has announced that all level five and six courses will be offered free of charge for the 2025-2026 academic year.

This initiative aims to make education more accessible, reflecting Cork ETB’s commitment to lifelong learning and a pathway for every learner in conjunction with the Mallow, Douglas St, Kinsale, and Morrison’s Island campuses.

“By eliminating fees for the upcoming academic year, Cork College of FET continues to honour the legacy of St Finbarr, the patron saint of Cork, who dedicated his life to teaching, ensuring that education remains a right, not a privilege, for Cork city and county,” said a representative for the college.

Former councillor Thomas Moloney welcomed the announcement: “This is a fantastic initiative and an amazing opportunity for people to avail of new training and skills.”

Togher garden needs helpers

Togher Community Garden are looking for volunteers for community garden-based activities, such as planting, weeding, harvesting, composting, and maintenance. The volunteers will learn gardening skills and work alongside other volunteers in a fun environment.

No major gardening skills are required, just the willingness to learn on the job. The group typically meets on Wednesdays and Saturdays, in both morning and afternoon sessions, for a minimum of three hours a week.

Togher Community Garden is based in Clashduv Park, Togher, and is developed with Cork Food Policy Council, Green Spaces for Health, and Cork City Council.

For more information, see https://shorturl.at/URJo1.

Community awards

Ballyphehane Community Centre are delighted to receive two nominations for the Lord Mayor’s Community & Voluntary Awards.

2025 marks the 22nd edition of the awards.

Once again, the awards celebrate the rich voluntary effort, dedication, and ‘building communities’ ethos in Cork city. More than 600 organisations engage in the community and voluntary sector. They form the heart of Cork society and its caring DNA of togetherness and solidarity.

A representative for Ballyphehane Community Centre said: “We are delighted to have received two nominations for the Lord Mayor’s Community & Voluntary Awards: The Community Association for the building works completed, nominated under the ‘Climate Action, Active Travel and Sustainable Development’ category; Ballyphehane Horticulture Course and Community Garden, under the Community Development and Lifelong Learning.

“Great work done by Jerry and Arthur here. Thanks for all the nominations, and for the community wide support on our building retrofit works. Best wishes to all the community and voluntary groups on the night.”

Quiz night

Togher-based amateur soccer club Everton AFC are to hold their annual table quiz on Saturday, April 26, in Flannery’s Bar and Lounge on Glasheen Road at 7.30pm. Tables of four are €40 and will include spot prizes, finger food, and live music.

The annual quiz promises to be a great night. For more information and to book a table, contact Michelle on 089 4518202 or message the Everton AFC social media channels.

Students mark Pope’s death

Coláiste Éamonn Rís have shared their sympathies, following the passing of Pope Francis, who died on Easter Monday aged 88.

“We were saddened to hear of the passing of Pope Francis. His leadership was marked by humility, kindness, and a strong sense of justice.

“As a school community, we remember him in our thoughts and prayers, and we are grateful for the positive example he gave to people of all ages around the world.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Have Ballyphehane, Togher and Turner's Cross news to share? Contact elaine.whelan@theecho.ie