Ladies Club in Tipperary celebrates golden anniversary of 1974 foundation

Kilcash Ladies Club

The phrase Mná na hÉireann became synonymous with Mary Robinson when she became President of Ireland in 1990. With a little stretch of the imagination, Mná Chill Chaise were ahead of the posse with the launch of Kilcash Ladies Club in February 1974.

To be fair to Mary Robinson, she also addressed Fir na hEireann in her inaugural speech and you might be surprised to hear that there was a ‘fear’ involved in the setting up of Kilcash Ladies Club.

Much discussion and debate took place in the kitchen of Ann and Edmond O’Reilly on the possibility and the feasibility of the formation of a local club for local women. The next step involved inviting Joan O’Gorman to that kitchen and a plan was made. The carrying out of that plan involved many capable women from the area and the first meeting of Kilcash Ladies’ Club was held on February 21, 1974.

The first officers of the Club were Ann O’Reilly, Joan O’Gorman and Betty Walsh.

A committee representing each area of the parish were also elected.

Essie Walsh, Nora Tobin, Breda Hennessy and Ita Tobin. All members of the Ladies Club since it was formed in 1974.

Mrs C. Cashman, Toor; Mrs C. Donovan, Kilcash; Mrs M. Maher, Ballypatrick; Mrs Mulrooney. Kilnoracy/ Lisbalting; Mrs K. Brennan, Seskin; Mrs Mullins, Ballknockane.

Demonstrations and guest speakers, with a chat over a cup of tea and biscuits, was decided for each fortnightly meeting and an annual outing each Summer.

The benefit of the club to the women of the locality is immeasurable. All those years ago it provided an outlet for women to come together, to share ideas, to invite guest speakers, to attend classes, to enjoy an annual outing – and guess what, it continues to do the same fifty years on. It has been a fleeting fifty years.

Beír bua Kilcash Ladies Club. Neart do lámh.

We are grateful to have known so many wonderful women and to know the wonderful women who continue to make up Kilcash Ladies Club.

Celebrations included a special mass offered by Fr. Brian Power, with readings, offertory procession and hymns involving many members of the Ladies Club.

A wonderful meal was served by Condon Catering in Kilcash Community Centre and enjoyed by all.

Photographer Ed Darcy took a selection of photographs and copies can be ordered by contacting Ladies Club Secretary, Margaret O’Keeffe. 087 3811723.