Fermoy

Fermoy town is situated in the heart of Munsters Blackwater Valley. Fermoy is famous for its fishing and hospitality. Xplore Fermoy here.

Fermoy, Co. Cork, Ireland - Welcome to the Blackwater Valley

What is Fermoy Forum?

Fermoy Forum is a voluntary organisation made up of local people that works in partnership with your local businesses, community groups and the municipal authority to develop and communicate opportunities and implement plans for the economic, social and environmental development of Fermoy town.

Why has it been established?

In order to facilitate those within the community to work together through partnership to enrich our town as a great place to work, live and do business.

What are our objectives?

Working in partnership with Fermoy Municipal Authority, the forum’s activities include strategic business planning, pro-active sectoral development, feasibility assessment and management of projects, area branding, promotion, marketing and networking, communications, and monitoring/evaluation of projects and activities.

Membership Benefits

Establishing a representative body for Fermoy’s many businesses and non-profit organisations has never been more important than at this moment. Fermoy Forum is stepping into this role and has already established a working relationship with the Cork County Council as well as our Municipal Town Council and local Councillors.

As a subscribed member of the Fermoy Forum, we will work hard to represent your views, issues, needs and aspirations as we work closely with these state agencies. By encouraging a strong, unified business community, we help to create a stable local economy that provides a high quality of life for those who live and work in Fermoy.

Recent reports indicate that Cork County Council will have a reduced budget in the coming years. What budget is left will have to be used effectively. Fermoy Forum as a collective will be in a better position to advocate for better services than individual businesses and non-profits. 

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Michael Lyons

Chairman

David Horan

Vice Chairman

Ah, the debate about when Spring begins. For centuries, this has been a debate in Ireland, with both sides passionately making their case. On the one hand, there is the Celtic tradition that Spring starts in February, and on the other there is the popular belief that Spring begins in March. So, which is it? Let’s take a look at both sides of the argument and try to come up with an answer.

The most traditional view is that Spring begins in February. According to Celtic lore and mythology, the start of Spring was celebrated on Imbolc. Imbolc, the festival marking the beginning of spring has been celebrated since ancient times. It is a midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox, a Cross Quarter Day, and can fall between the 2nd & 7th of February, this year it’s Febrauay 5th. The Celts believed that this was the time of year when the earth began to wake up from its winter sleep and the days started to get longer and warmer.

The Celts celebrated this time of year with rituals such as lighting bonfires and feasting. In Ireland, this festival is still celebrated today and is known as Imbolc. It is a time for reflection and renewal, focusing on the coming of Spring and the promise of new life.

The other popular belief is that Spring begins in March. This argument is mainly based on the astronomical definition of the start of Spring, which is closely linked to the vernal equinox. The vernal equinox is the moment when the sun is directly above the equator, and this usually happens around the 20th of March each year.

This date is also significant for meteorologists, who use the vernal equinox as the point at which Spring is said to begin. It is based on the fact that, on this day, the amount of daylight and darkness is equal, and the days start to become longer than the nights. This is why many people believe that the start of Spring should be in March.

So, where does that leave us? It’s clear that there is a strong argument for both sides, and it seems that the debate will continue for some time. Of course, the reality is that Spring doesn’t begin on a single day, but is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months.

It also varies from year to year, and even from region to region. The weather patterns in Ireland can be unpredictable and, in some years, Spring may feel like it arrives earlier than usual, while in other years it may seem like it’s taking its time.

In conclusion, the debate about when Spring begins in Ireland is an interesting one that is likely to be around for some time. While there is a strong argument for both sides, the reality is that Spring is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months, and is different from year to year. So, for us it really comes down to going with your Head - March, or your Heart, February. 

Ah, the debate about when Spring begins. For centuries, this has been a debate in Ireland, with both sides passionately making their case. On the one hand, there is the Celtic tradition that Spring starts in February, and on the other there is the popular belief that Spring begins in March. So, which is it? Let’s take a look at both sides of the argument and try to come up with an answer.
The Celtic Tradition
The most traditional view is that Spring begins in February. According to Celtic lore and mythology, the start of Spring was celebrated on Imbolc. Imbolc, the festival marking the beginning of spring has been celebrated since ancient times. It is a midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox, a Cross Quarter Day, and can fall between the 2nd &amp; 7th of February, this year it’s Febrauay 5th. The Celts believed that this was the time of year when the earth began to wake up from its winter sleep and the days started to get longer and warmer.

The Celts celebrated this time of year with rituals such as lighting bonfires and feasting. In Ireland, this festival is still celebrated today and is known as Imbolc. It is a time for reflection and renewal, focusing on the coming of Spring and the promise of new life.
The March Argument
The other popular belief is that Spring begins in March. This argument is mainly based on the astronomical definition of the start of Spring, which is closely linked to the vernal equinox. The vernal equinox is the moment when the sun is directly above the equator, and this usually happens around the 20th of March each year.
This date is also significant for meteorologists, who use the vernal equinox as the point at which Spring is said to begin. It is based on the fact that, on this day, the amount of daylight and darkness is equal, and the days start to become longer than the nights. This is why many people believe that the start of Spring should be in March.
The Debate
So, where does that leave us? It’s clear that there is a strong argument for both sides, and it seems that the debate will continue for some time. Of course, the reality is that Spring doesn’t begin on a single day, but is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months.
It also varies from year to year, and even from region to region. The weather patterns in Ireland can be unpredictable and, in some years, Spring may feel like it arrives earlier than usual, while in other years it may seem like it’s taking its time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate about when Spring begins in Ireland is an interesting one that is likely to be around for some time. While there is a strong argument for both sides, the reality is that Spring is a gradual process that takes place over a period of weeks and months, and is different from year to year. So, for us it really comes down to going with your Head - March, or your Heart, February.&nbsp;
Spring has Sprung!

Is it Spring?

This February, we will be celebrating its first-ever Irish public holiday named for a woman: St. Brigid's Day, or Imbolc. This day marks the beginning of the Celtic new year and is an opportunity to honour the legacy of the beloved Irish saint and goddess Brigid of Kildare.

From the ancient pagan goddess to the much-loved saint, the figure of St. Brigid has been an integral part of Irish life for over 1600 years. Often known as the ‘Mary of the Gael’, her prominence in Irish culture is akin to that of the Virgin Mary in Christianity. The daughter of a pagan chieftain, she was born in Faughart, County Louth, in the fifth century, and her subsequent life and works have been remembered and celebrated in Irish folklore ever since.

Brigid was said to be a beautiful and intelligent child and was known for her deep compassion and generosity. She was known to have a deep affinity with animals, and there are numerous tales of her miraculous works, such as turning water into beer, milk into butter and even iron into gold. She was also credited with founding one of the first monasteries in Ireland and was a great advocate for women’s rights.

The most famous of her miracles is the ‘Fire of Brigid’, which is said to have been kept continually alight in the monastery she founded. It was believed to have been a source of protection, healing and luck for those who sought its blessing. The Fire of Brigid has been kept alight annually since ancient times and is still celebrated each year on the 1st of February, which is also known as St. Brigid’s Day.

Brigid is also the ‘mother saint’ of Ireland and is one of our three patron saints alongside St. Patrick and St. Columba. She is venerated as the goddess of poets, healers and smiths. She is also said to have been a significant influence on the development of the Irish language and is credited with writing some of the earliest Irish literature. She is often depicted with a cross made of reeds, the one we all made in school, which is said to represent her faith and compassion.

As well as the Perpetual Flame of Brigid, there are numerous monuments, shrines and churches devoted to St. Brigid throughout Ireland. The most famous of these is the Hill of Kildare, which is said to have been the site of her monastery. The ruins of the monastery are still visible today and are a popular tourist attraction.

For centuries, St. Brigid has been seen as a symbol of hope and faith in Ireland. She has been venerated by people of all faiths and backgrounds, and her spirit of compassion and generosity has touched the hearts of many. Her story is an important reminder of the power of kindness and of the importance of looking after one another.

St. Brigid is an integral part of Irish history and culture, and her legacy continues to be celebrated in Ireland. Whether you are Christian, pagan or none of the above, St. Brigid will always be remembered as a powerful symbol of womanhood, hope and kindness.

This February, we will be celebrating its first-ever Irish public holiday named for a woman: St. Brigid's Day, or Imbolc. This day marks the beginning of the Celtic new year and is an opportunity to honour the legacy of the beloved Irish saint and goddess Brigid of Kildare.
From the ancient pagan goddess to the much-loved saint, the figure of St. Brigid has been an integral part of Irish life for over 1600 years. Often known as the ‘Mary of the Gael’, her prominence in Irish culture is akin to that of the Virgin Mary in Christianity. The daughter of a pagan chieftain, she was born in Faughart, County Louth, in the fifth century, and her subsequent life and works have been remembered and celebrated in Irish folklore ever since.
Brigid was said to be a beautiful and intelligent child and was known for her deep compassion and generosity. She was known to have a deep affinity with animals, and there are numerous tales of her miraculous works, such as turning water into beer, milk into butter and even iron into gold. She was also credited with founding one of the first monasteries in Ireland and was a great advocate for women’s rights.

<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/b567f130-d353-4341-9374-c68d1d72fd16.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

The most famous of her miracles is the ‘Fire of Brigid’, which is said to have been kept continually alight in the monastery she founded. It was believed to have been a source of protection, healing and luck for those who sought its blessing. The Fire of Brigid has been kept alight annually since ancient times and is still celebrated each year on the 1st of February, which is also known as St. Brigid’s Day.
Brigid is also the ‘mother saint’ of Ireland and is one of our three patron saints alongside St. Patrick and St. Columba. She is venerated as the goddess of poets, healers and smiths. She is also said to have been a significant influence on the development of the Irish language and is credited with writing some of the earliest Irish literature. She is often depicted with a cross made of reeds, the one we all made in school, which is said to represent her faith and compassion.
As well as the Perpetual Flame of Brigid, there are numerous monuments, shrines and churches devoted to St. Brigid throughout Ireland. The most famous of these is the Hill of Kildare, which is said to have been the site of her monastery. The ruins of the monastery are still visible today and are a popular tourist attraction.
For centuries, St. Brigid has been seen as a symbol of hope and faith in Ireland. She has been venerated by people of all faiths and backgrounds, and her spirit of compassion and generosity has touched the hearts of many. Her story is an important reminder of the power of kindness and of the importance of looking after one another.
St. Brigid is an integral part of Irish history and culture, and her legacy continues to be celebrated in Ireland. Whether you are Christian, pagan or none of the above, St. Brigid will always be remembered as a powerful symbol of womanhood, hope and kindness.

St. Brigid's Day, a new public holiday for Ireland.

It’s that time of year again! The Irish Restaurant Awards are back for 2023, and it’s time to nominate your favourite local restaurant. 

The Irish Restaurant Awards have been running since 2006, celebrating the best in Ireland's culinary scene. Restaurants from across the country can be nominated by customers and diners who have experienced their food first-hand. This year is no different and it is time to celebrate our beloved restaurants and all they bring to our communities. 

Nominating a restaurant couldn't be easier – simply visit irishtimes.com/sponsored/restaurant-awards-ireland and select your chosen restaurant from the list provided or enter its name into the search box at the top of the page if you don't see it listed already. You can then fill out some information about why you think this particular establishment should win an award in 2023 - whether it's for outstanding customer service, delicious food or excellent value for money – before submitting your nomination online. 

This is a great opportunity to show appreciation to those hardworking chefs, waitstaff and other staff members who make dining out such an enjoyable experience on a day-to-day basis - not just when awards season rolls around! So why not take five minutes to give credit where credit is due? After all, these restaurants add so much vibrancy, colour and flavour to our communities with their unique offerings that help shape what makes Ireland so special today; let's thank them properly by nominating them for an award!  

So please get involved in helping us recognise those establishments which offer consistently high standards throughout 2022 - because without them we'd be missing out on something truly special! Let's join together now and make sure these fantastic eateries get their moment in the spotlight during this year’s awards ceremony. Nominate today - CLICK HERE 

It’s that time of year again! The Irish Restaurant Awards are back for 2023, and it’s time to nominate your favourite local restaurant.&nbsp;
The Irish Restaurant Awards have been running since 2006, celebrating the best in Ireland's culinary scene. Restaurants from across the country can be nominated by customers and diners who have experienced their food first-hand. This year is no different and it is time to celebrate our beloved restaurants and all they bring to our communities.&nbsp;
Nominating a restaurant couldn't be easier – simply visit <a href="irishtimes.com/sponsored/restaurant-awards-ireland/" target="_blank">irishtimes.com/sponsored/restaurant-awards-ireland</a> and select your chosen restaurant from the list provided or enter its name into the search box at the top of the page if you don't see it listed already. You can then fill out some information about why you think this particular establishment should win an award in 2023 - whether it's for outstanding customer service, delicious food or excellent value for money – before submitting your nomination online.&nbsp;

<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/68f3cd52-d2d0-4262-b52b-c54d985a8b11.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

This is a great opportunity to show appreciation to those hardworking chefs, waitstaff and other staff members who make dining out such an enjoyable experience on a day-to-day basis - not just when awards season rolls around! So why not take five minutes to give credit where credit is due? After all, these restaurants add so much vibrancy, colour and flavour to our communities with their unique offerings that help shape what makes Ireland so special today; let's thank them properly by nominating them for an award!&nbsp;&nbsp;
So please get involved in helping us recognise those establishments which offer consistently high standards throughout 2022 - because without them we'd be missing out on something truly special! Let's join together now and make sure these fantastic eateries get their moment in the spotlight during this year’s awards ceremony. Nominate today - <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sponsored/restaurant-awards-ireland/" target="_blank">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;

The Irish Restaurant Awards are back for 2023

As January draws to a close, many of us are beginning to settle into a new year. At this time of year, the idea of throwing off what has been and trying something new can become appealing. However, before you declare 2023 to be your year of complete transformation, take a moment to pause and acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Mental health is a significant factor when settling into a new year. It can be difficult to process the uncertainty of the current climate and that is why it is important to remember your own mental health in the days and weeks ahead. According to Fiona O’Connor, a clinical psychologist, “It is okay to take time to look after yourself, fill your cup and love yourself before you try to move on. The most important person to take care of is you and it is okay to prioritise yourself from time to time”.

Of course, setting goals for the new year can be a great motivator. Whether you decide to tackle something new, such as learning a language, or revisit something that was started in the past, setting yourself a goal can provide steer and clarity. Whatever you choose, it is important to lead with kindness, including being kind to yourself. It is also a good idea to track progress and acknowledge successes no matter how small they may be.

With the Irish winter temperatures sometimes more suitable for polar expeditions than nature walks, it can be tricky to maintain good health. To boost spirits, try exploring the many outdoor activities available in your local area. A great way to get outside and explore the countryside can be a guided walk somewhere new or a leisurely stroll along a beach. Alternatively, book a visit to a local attraction and learn something new.

In addition to physical wellbeing, it is important to remember to give back to your community. 2023 has already brought a great deal of uncertainty, so consider ways to which you can help to boost the morale, resilience and wellbeing of your local community. Consider reducing meat consumption and increasing sustainable practices, such as composting and reducing food waste. Supporting local businesses is also a great way to give back to your local community and could even become a family weekend activity.

So, why not turn 2023 into a year of small successes? Make time to focus on your own well-being and mental health and consider setting yourself small, achievable goals. Sticking to them doesn't necessarily mean becoming a new person, it could just mean honouring who you were in 2022 while looking ahead to a brighter future when you can safely do so.

As January draws to a close, many of us are beginning to settle into a new year. At this time of year, the idea of throwing off what has been and trying something new can become appealing. However, before you declare 2023 to be your year of complete transformation, take a moment to pause and acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Mental health is a significant factor when settling into a new year. It can be difficult to process the uncertainty of the current climate and that is why it is important to remember your own mental health in the days and weeks ahead. According to Fiona O’Connor, a clinical psychologist, “It is okay to take time to look after yourself, fill your cup and love yourself before you try to move on. The most important person to take care of is you and it is okay to prioritise yourself from time to time”.

<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/4c9b6799-1ffc-4e9c-8977-d893179b83ff.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

Of course, setting goals for the new year can be a great motivator. Whether you decide to tackle something new, such as learning a language, or revisit something that was started in the past, setting yourself a goal can provide steer and clarity. Whatever you choose, it is important to lead with kindness, including being kind to yourself. It is also a good idea to track progress and acknowledge successes no matter how small they may be.

With the Irish winter temperatures sometimes more suitable for polar expeditions than nature walks, it can be tricky to maintain good health. To boost spirits, try exploring the many outdoor activities available in your local area. A great way to get outside and explore the countryside can be a guided walk somewhere new or a leisurely stroll along a beach. Alternatively, book a visit to a local attraction and learn something new.

<img src="https://d2hz75cbudexsj.cloudfront.net/insideAppNews/images/c15ac594-32ee-48c0-955f-03fd27bf1d14.jpg" alt="undefined" style="float:none;height: auto;width: auto"/>

In addition to physical wellbeing, it is important to remember to give back to your community. 2023 has already brought a great deal of uncertainty, so consider ways to which you can help to boost the morale, resilience and wellbeing of your local community. Consider reducing meat consumption and increasing sustainable practices, such as composting and reducing food waste. Supporting local businesses is also a great way to give back to your local community and could even become a family weekend activity.

So, why not turn 2023 into a year of small successes? Make time to focus on your own well-being and mental health and consider setting yourself small, achievable goals. Sticking to them doesn't necessarily mean becoming a new person, it could just mean honouring who you were in 2022 while looking ahead to a brighter future when you can safely do so.

Welcome to Fermoy

Fermoy town is situated in the heart of Munsters Blackwater Valley. Fermoy is famous for its fishing and hospitality. Xplore Fermoy here.

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Discover the past with self-guided tours exploring history. Interactive audio and turn-by-turn directions bringing the past to life