The Smiddy report on the amalgamation of the two local authorities in Cork has recommended the ratio of councillors to constituents be altered, especially in West Cork where their number has been reduced but the area of representation significantly increased.

It was surprising to read that the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government plan to end funding from December 31 for five community development offices for the non-gaeltacht islands of Bere, Clare, Whiddy, Sherkin, Dursey, Long, Heir, Inishturk and Inishbofin. 

Communities on nine non-Gaeltacht islands have expressed concern at the news that the Department of the Environment, Community, and Local Government is to terminate funding to their five community development company offices from the end of next month.

BERE ISLAND WALK

WE all know Christmas is a time for catching up with friends and family, even those spending the festive period abroad.

Schoolchildren yesterday heard of their island home’s “unusual history” during a local commemoration of the 75th anniversary handover of a former British-built fort to Ireland.

Live Music: Philip Chevron Testimonial, The Olympia, Dublin

It takes two hours to drive from Páirc Uí Rinn to Castletownbere.

Renovated, old master gunner’s house is for sale, says Tommy Barker

Cash-stricken Cork County Council cannot afford to fix some of the “appalling” and “impassable” roads on its seven inhabited islands.

I HAVE travelled the road to Castletownbere en route to the Bere Island ferry many times over the last few months, and the sudden stunning vistas were never as striking as on the eve of winter solstice.

Resilient Bere Island has kept a steady population of 200, writes Denise Hall

THERE’S something special about landing on an island, whether you arrive by causeway or by bridge, by air, by ferry or other boat, by swimming, or swing by an island via a cable-car — and you’ve all those choices on offer for Ireland’s hundreds of islands.

ISLANDERS in west Cork are trying to encourage more people to visit and, ultimately, live among them.

A 10-YEAR strategy to enhance life for about 500 inhabitants on the seven islands off West Cork has been launched.

ISLANDS off the coast of Cork could become the first in the country to get a comprehensive refuse disposal service.

ISLANDERS off Cork are planning a sea change in their attitude to the development and promotion of tourism.