Much-loved Limerick yearbook back on the shelves

CASTLECONNELL'S much loved chronicle returns after a four year hiatus.

The 25 years old legacy of An Caisleán has been revived by Castleconnell Action Network (CAN) and LOVE Castleconnell. 

An Caisleán was the brainchild of Joe Carroll, a prolific author, poet and historian who had a great love for his native village and its environs. His idea to publish a journal about life and events in Castleconnell, Ahane and Montpelier became a reality in 1997 when he gathered a group of like-minded people around him and An Caisleán was born. 

The late and much-loved parish priest, Fr James Minogue said in 1997: "An Caisleán is a journal with a mission to record all the present happenings in the parish as they happen each year. In that way it will be a wonderful source of information for all.

"It will be a newsletter that can be sent to friends across the seas, or a document that can be stored away for generations yet to come."

Over 25 years later, that hard-working committee handed the mantle of An Caisleán over to its new custodians.

This new collaboration has given the chronicle a fresh new look. They also archived previous editions and stories on a new website www.lovecastleconnell.com so the history and heritage of the 25 year legacy is not lost. 

This site is a gateway to the book; offering locals the chance to submit their stories online to feature in future publications as well as documenting the news in real-time. This online presence will be a vital resource to reach out to not only locals and visitors but to the worldwide diaspora.

An Caisleán 2022 features local and national stories including a profile on the wonderful Olympian Sarah Lavin and local Limerick heroes Ciarán Barry, Dan and Tom Morrissey, as well as Tidy Towns success stories and much more. The book has information about local schools, sports clubs and associations, as well as many photographs of familiar faces. A beautiful photo by Shane O'Brien graces the front cover.

It is available to purchase from local outlets in Castleconnell - Shannon Stores, Shannon House Restaurant, The Protea Café, Cunningham's SuperValu, Ryan’s Shop in Annacotty and Daly's Cross Service Station

It can also be purchased online at https://lovecastleconnell.com/product/an-Caisleán-2022/

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Nicky McNamara, of LOVE Castleconnell, said it was the summer of 2021 when they received a telephone call asking if they would be interested in taking over the production of An Caisleán.

"Of course, we all said 'yes' and agreed that Castleconnell must not lose this annual record of events, achievements and everyday life in our beautiful village," said Ms McNamara.

Tara Hartigan, LOVE Castleconnell, said the last committee did such an incredible job that they had big shoes to fill.

"However, we feel we have really brought it back to the highest standard and the local contribution was immense, and are incredible proud of it," said Ms Hartigan.