All About Cork: Travel Counsellors Ireland is best long-haul agency again

Mahon company Travel Counsellors Ireland has won the Best Long-Haul Agency Award for the second year in a row at the 2025 ITTN Irish Travel Trade Awards.

The ceremony took place recently at the Clayton Hotel on the Burlington Rd in Co Dublin.

Hosted annually by ITTN, the Irish Travel Trade Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and customer care across Ireland’s travel industry.

Cathy Burke, managing director of Travel Counsellors Ireland, said the organisation is “incredibly proud to be recognised among Ireland’s best at this year’s ITTN awards”.

“This achievement is a tribute to our amazing community of travel counsellors across the country, who consistently go above and beyond for their clients,” said Ms Burke.

“Because these categories are voted on by customers, winning ‘best long-haul agency’ for the second year reflects the passion, care, and professionalism shown every day, as well as the trust customers continue to place in us.

“This recognition also speaks to the culture we’ve built: For anyone passionate about travel, being a travel counsellor is really the best job. The relationships our travel counsellors build with their clients, and the loyalty they’ve earned over the years, are at the heart of our success.”

Headquartered in the Loughmahon Technology Park, Travel Counsellors Ireland employs more than 80 independent travel counsellors and is part of a global community of more than 2,500 travel experts across six countries: Ireland, Britain, the Netherlands, Belgium, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates.

The company was established in Ireland in 2005, and is a trusted service, and Ireland’s largest platform for corporate travel professionals.

Ms Burke said that Travel Counsellors Ireland continues to grow its network of travel professionals by welcoming new entrants to the industry, and offering people the opportunity to run a “flexible, independent business with the support of cutting-edge technology and a strong, people-first community”.

Bessboro festive party

The Bessboro Day Care Centre is calling on members of the public to attend their upcoming Christmas party in honour of the Alzheimer Society of Ireland.

The event, at the centre in Blackrock on December 13 from 1pm to 3pm, will include treats from The Old Mill Bakery, live music by Paul O’Shea, and a spot-prize raffle.

In a post shared on social media, a representative from the club said this is a “wonderful opportunity for families living with dementia to come together, share the Christmas spirit, and make joyful memories”.

“Let’s celebrate the season with warmth, music, and community.” Contact Mary Hennessy at 021 4972504 or mary.hennessy@alzheimer.ie.

Lifelong learning events urged

Independent councillor for the Cork City South East ward, Kieran McCarthy, is calling on the public across Blackrock and Mahon to host an event at next year’s Cork Lifelong Learning Festival.

Cork City Council announced the opening of the window for submissions to the festival this week, which is taking place from April 22 to 29.

In a post shared on social media, Mr McCarthy called on people across the ward to get involved.

“The festival is open to individuals, organisations, and groups all over Cork city and surrounds, who want to engage with lifelong learners of all levels, interests and abilities,” said Mr McCarthy.

“Event hosts come from every walk of life, sharing their passions through a huge variety of free events all across the city.”

The deadline for submissions is January 31, with more information available here: tinyurl.com/uyz285ya

Nagle Community College presentation at Leinster House 

Nagle Community College’s 6th year student, Jayden, recently delivered a presentation to the Joint Committee for the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement in Leinster House in Dublin.

A spokesperson for Nagle Community College said the outcome of the presentation for Jayden, who is a member of the Gold Level Co-operation Ireland Future Leaders Programme, was “incredible”, with the committee agreeing to support the ‘See Our Silence, Hear Our Vision’ campaign.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about inclusive education for young people.

A letter of support for the campaign will now be sent to the Department of Education and the Education Sub-Committee.

“A massive step forward,” the spokesperson said.

“The core aim of their campaign is to raise awareness about inclusive education for young people across the Island of Ireland.

“It aims to influence public awareness, educational policy and societal attitudes for a more inclusive Island.”

Mahon Golf Club Call for Members 

Mahon Golf Club has issued a call for female members to join their club.

In a post shared on social media, a spokesperson for the club said applications for membership for the 2026 season are now open.

“Ladies, it’s time to get into the swing of things,” the spokesperson said.

“Looking to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors, and have a bit of friendly competition - our Ladies Golf Section is growing and we would be delighted to welcome you to be part of it.

“We are open to new members for the 2026 season.

“Whether you’re completely new to golf or a seasoned player, we offer relaxed social rounds; coaching sessions for all abilities; fun ladies’ competitions and events; and a welcoming, supportive community.” 

A year one membership is priced from €1,000, with a reduced renewal fee of €680 from year two onwards.

For more information, email: infoladies@mahongolfclub.com.

Tidy Towns’ Christmas Bucket Collection 

Mahon Tidy Towns will host their annual Christmas bucket collection in Blackrock this week.

The fundraising initiative will take place from 10am to 6pm tomorrow and Saturday at Aldi in Blackrock on the Skehard Road.

In a post shared on social media, a spokesperson for Mahon Tidy Towns urged willing donators to bring cash.

“Mahon Tidy Towns are having their annual bucket collection in Aldi Blackrock on Friday and Saturday,” they said.

"We will have a tap to donate option but cash is king.

“We look forward to meeting and chatting to you all.”