All About Cork: Councillors’ welcome for Wendy’s and 50 new jobs

Councillors across the Cork City South East ward have welcomed the announcement that Mahon Point Shopping Centre will see 50 jobs created with the addition of a new food vendor at the facility.

American fast-food chain, Wendy’s, will join the facility’s suite of food offerings from October, joining its existing vendors, McDonald’s, Abrakebabra, Hillbilly’s, the Bagel Bar, and Ginzeng.

The addition of Wendy’s to Mahon Point Shopping Centre comes after the appointment of Corrib Oil, one of Ireland’s leading service station and energy distribution providers, as their Irish franchise partner in 2024.

With the arrival of Wendy’s, 50 new jobs will be created in Mahon, with recruitment currently underway.

As part of its commitment to the Irish market, Wendy’s will use 100% fresh Irish beef and chicken across its menu, which will feature some fan-favourites, including their square hamburgers, spicy chicken sandwich, and more.

Justin Young, centre director of Mahon Point Shopping Centre, said that the new venture is “great news for Cork”.

“To be part of bringing the very first Wendy’s restaurant to Ireland is really special,” he said. “This opening is great news for Cork — not only does it create 50 new local jobs, but it also gives people the opportunity to enjoy the craveable, high-quality food Wendy’s is famous for.”

Former deputy lord mayor of Cork, and Green Party councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Honore Kamegni, said the arrival represents “a real boost” for Mahon Point Shopping Centre.

“I warmly welcome the announcement of 50 new jobs being created at Mahon Point with the arrival of the American food chain Wendy’s,” said Mr Kamegni.

“As a local councillor, I am proud to see this kind of investment coming into Cork South East.

“It’s a real boost for the local economy and a positive opportunity for jobseekers in the area.

“I want to see more initiatives like this that support employment, attract business, and contribute to the ongoing growth and vibrancy of our community, not just in Cork South East, but across the city.”

Labour Party councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Peter Horgan, said this is “a good news story” for the Mahon and Blackrock area.

“Fifty jobs being created from this investment is a significant creation to be hailed,” said Mr Horgan. “I look forward to seeing that investment result in good paying roles for the area being created even more.

“There is a knock-on employment boost from tertiary services also that must be supported too.”

Blackrock couple’s tasty wedding anniversary trip

People invited to enjoy Blackrock Village Festival weekend

The Blackrock Village Festival will return to Leeside this weekend, with a jam-packed programme of family friendly events.

Fine Gael councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Des Cahill and Labour Party councillor for the Cork City South East ward Peter Horgan have called on members of the public to join them in celebration across Friday and Saturday.

“We want people to celebrate Blackrock this weekend,” said Mr Cahill, who is the chair of the Blackrock Village Festival committee.

“Whether it’s a celebration of all the clubs we have in the parish, the wonderful musical talents available, learning the heritage of our community through storytelling, or using the great amenities and local businesses we have on offer, there’s something for everyone.”

The festivities will kick-off with a special free opening concert from the Cork Light Orchestra on Friday from 5.30pm at St Michael’s Church.

On Saturday, the village will come alive from 1pm with a lively parade, followed by an afternoon of live music, with performances by Hank Wedel and the Down in the City band, Lee Sessions, Garden Party, and Colin McLean.

Festival-goers can also enjoy a talk from author Diarmuid Ó Drisceoil at 3pm in the Community Centre, followed by a special historical photo exhibition showcasing Blackrock’s rich heritage.

There will also be a Mini Fun Regatta from 3pm, hosted by the Blackrock Rowing Club, boat trips, funky bicycle rides, and a range of children’s activities will be on the green.

According to organisers, this year’s festival brings together the very best of Blackrock’s spirit, from music and literature, to history and family fun.

For more information on the programme of events for the 2025 Blackrock Village Festival, visit: https://www.facebook.com/BlackrockVillageFestival/.

Bad smell in Ballinure

Uisce Éireann have confirmed that the foul odour reported in the Ballinure area, has come as a result of septiox dosing.

Independent councillor for the Cork City South East Ward, Kieran McCarthy, who raised the issue with Uisce Éireann, said he continues to highlight the need for an “urgent resolution”.

“Uisce Éireann came back to me with their resolution on the odour,” said Mr McCarthy.

“They confirmed there was an issue with the septiox dosing.

“The level in the tank is monitored by Uisce Éireann, however, the signal seemed to be lost.

“There was a delivery due on August 1, which was delayed until August 6, so there was no dosing over that weekend.

“Uisce Éireann noted they have resolved it, however, local residents have since come to me saying that the smell is still very prevalent in the mornings.

“I have rewritten to Uisce Éireann, who have come back to me to say they have opened their investigation of the problem again.

“I have pressed that the problem needs an urgent resolution on public health grounds.”

Ringmahon Rangers recruiting

The Ringmahon Rangers AFC have issued a call for new recruits to join their girls U19s and U16s teams.

In a post shared on social media, a spokesperson for the club said they are actively recruiting girls for the forthcoming football season.

The club seek girls born in 2007, 2008, and 2009 to join their U19s team, and girls who were born in 2010 to join their U16s team.

Any interested players are asked to contact Maria White in relation to the U19s team at: 087-634-9333, or Éanna O’Suilleabháin in relation to the U16s team at: 086-806-5491.

Mahon Point CPR class

The National Ambulance Service will be present at Mahon Point Shopping Centre this Friday to deliver a “critical” CPR awareness day.

Representatives of the National Ambulance Service will be available from 12pm to 4pm tomorrow at Mahon Point Shopping Centre to teach members of the public critical lifesaving skills via hands-on demonstrations.

In a post shared on social media, a spokesperson for Mahon Point Shopping Centre said that the event will provide participants with the opportunity to “learn how to make a difference, because it could save someone you love”.

Representatives from Cork’s 96FM will also be present to provide on-site entertainment with music and “a lively vibe”.

Ballintemple fundraiser

The Ballintemple Friends Group have officially launched their annual charity fundraiser event.

The event will take place on November 28 at the Blackrock National Hurling Club.

A spokesperson for the Ballintemple Friends Group said they will be raising funds for the School of the Divine Child and Rainbow Club.

“We will continue our support of the amazing work done at the School of the Divine Child in Ballintemple and, this year, we will also help the Rainbow Club Cork based in Mahon,” they said. “We were blown away by the services they offer to autistic children and their families on a daily basis.

“We can only hope to make a small difference and nothing would be possible without your support.”

Have news to share? Contact rachel.lysaght@theecho.ie