Garda injured in motorcycle accident

A Garda motorcyclist has been injured in a road traffic accident in County Limerick this morning.

The Garda bike was in collision with a truck in the village around 11am. He was taken to the mid western regional hospital suffering only minor injuries.

A Garda investigation into the incident is underway. Its thought the Garda was on traffic duty for the tour of Ireland cycle event when the accident happened.

Man injured in Garryowen knife attack

A man was due before a special sitting of Limerick district court Saturday charged in relation to a serious assault in the city.

A man, believed to be in his 30’s, received serious injuries to his ear following a knife attack at a house on Downey Street in the Garryowen area of the city around 10.15pm Friday night. Gardai who arrived at the scene arrested one man.

The injured man was taken to the mid western regional hospital and is recovering from his injuries.

NEW DETAILS
22 year old Ian Butler with an address at Downey Street, Garryowen has been released on bail following the incident last night.

Three men held after discovery of cocaine

Three people have been arrested by Gardai following the discovery of a substantial amount of cocaine in a Limerick suburb today.

At least €400,000 worth of the drug was found at a house in the Castletroy view housing estate today during a planned Garda operation. Radio reports say the house was being used as a cocaine 'mixing factory'. Around 6kg of the drug along with mixing agents were also discovered at the house.

The arrested, two men in their twenties and man in his forties, are being questioned at Henry Station Garda Station in relation to the find.

NEW DETAILS
All men being detained are known to the Gardai and are connected to a Moyross criminal gang.

The three have been named as Timothy O'Grady(46) of St John's Terrace in Hospital; William O'Donnell(31) of Monabraher Road in Ballynanty and Patrick Hogan(26), of Long Range near the Sandmall.

They have been charged and have appeared in court Saturday.

A thorough forensic examination was being completed at the house. As well as the drugs, gardaí discovered weighing scales, blenders, plastic packaging, a cocaine press, masking tape, gloves and other items used to prepare cocaine deals for sale on the street.

Inspector John O’Reilly said: “This was a mixing house where cocaine was being prepared for distribution throughout the region. This is a very significant find and will make a major dent in the cocaine scene in the region.”
Via Examiner

All three will make an application for bail on Wednesday 3rd of September.

Pallasgreen boil water notice lifted

A water boil notice issued to residents in Pallasgreen and its surrounding areas has been lifted, the Limerick County Council said Thursday. The notice had been in place since last Friday after concerns about the discovery of E.Coli in the water supply in the area.

Testing by the local authority's Environmental Laboratory staff has since shown that the water being supplied to the Pallasgreen Water Supply Scheme is now meeting the drinking water standards.

Director of Services Transportation & Water Services at Limerick County Council Paul Crowe said in a statement today,

“The introduction of a boil notice was deemed a necessary precautionary measure to ensure that public health was not put at risk. Limerick County Council will continue to monitor the water supply to ensure compliance with water quality standards. The Council would like to thank the public for their support.”

Just yesterday a water notice issued for the Rockhill area of was also lifted meaning no drinking water alerts are now in effect in the county.

Two held followng gun and ammo seizure

Two people have been arrested following the discovery of a firearm and ammunition at locations in Ballynanty Wednesday morning.

A woman thought to be in her 30’s was arrested by Gardai at one property where 350 rounds of ‘assorted’ ammunition was discovered in a planned raid. At a second dwelling Gardai arrested a man in his 20’s following the discovery of a .38 calibre handgun.

Both are being held and questioned by Gardai at Mayorstone Garda Station.

Limerick man jailed for possession of false passport

Limerick man Gerard Dundon has been jailed today for using a false passport to board a plane at Cork airport earlier this year.

At a sitting of Cork district court this morning the 21 year old, a key figure in Limerick’s gangland, was jailed for nine months after pleading guilty to three charges in relation to the possession of a false passport.

While in custody he had told Gardai that he needed the fake document for his own protection saying there were constant death threats being made against him.

The Weston native was arrested by Gardai at the airport on the 4th of July when he produced a passport with the name of ‘Terence Ruth’ as he attempted to board a Friday night flight to Amsterdam with nothing but €5,850 in his possession and no luggage.

When stopped by Gardai at the time Mr. Dundon insisted he was Terence Ruth even attempting to fool officers with a Dublin accent, however Gardai later discovered he had just stuck his photo onto the passport.

Rockhill boil water alert lifted

A water notice issued by Limerick County Council last week for the Rockhill area of East Limerick has been lifted.

Around 340 people in 153 domestic and non-domestic connections were affected by the alert which was issued last Wednesday after council officials identified E-Coli in the water supply.

Testing by the authority’s laboratory staff has shown that the water being produced in the areas water treatment plant is now meeting drinking water standards.

The areas affected by the public water notice were Ballyteige Upper, Ballyfookeen, Howardstown North, Cappanafaraha, Ballywillin, Ballyclough Upper, Ballyinoran, Garryfine, Knockaunavoddig, Garrane, Ballynoe, Mounteagle and Lotteragh Upper.

A boil water notice remains in effect for the Pallasgreen area.

Millionaire JP's private lake gets green light

Limerick millionaire JP McManus has been granted permission by Limerick county council to build a lake on the grounds of his mansion in Martinstown just outside Killmallock.

Although not the size of 31,000sq meters he had been looking for, the 57 year old business man did mange to get council approval for a much smaller 5,500sq m lake.

"When plans for the lake were lodged with the county council earlier this year, planners said the size and shape of the lake would not blend into the local countryside. The local authority requested that the applicant, Noreen McManus – Mr McManus’s wife – supply a revised version of the plan minimising the use of artificial embankments and using gently sloping grades.

This week the council granted permission for the elaborate project subject to 11 conditions.One of the conditions is that no motorised vehicles be used on the lake and that the proposed boathouse, which is to be constructed nearby, must not be used for any other activity apart from those relating to the lake.

Another condition is that no fish can be stocked in the lake without prior written approval of the planning authority."
via Irish Times

Reports say he originally wanted the lake to be in the shape of Limerick County itself.

Limerick man due in court on passport charge

A Limerick man is due before the District Court in Cork this morning charged with the possession of a false passport at Cork Airport on the July 4th of this year.

21 year old Gerard Dundon of Hyde Road in Weston was arrested by Gardai at the airport when he produced a passport with the name of ‘Terence Ruth’ as he attempted to board a Friday night flight to Amsterdam with nothing but €5,850 in his possession and no luggage.

At the time of his arrest he told Gardai he was informed his life was in danger and he needed the false document for his own protection, saying and he was only planning to stay in Amsterdam until Sunday.

Two questioned in Moloney murder inquiry

Gardai have confirmed that they are questioning two men in relation to the murder of Mark Moloney who was shot dead in April of this year.

The two men, one in his 20’s the other in his 40’s, are being held at Henry Street Garda station under section 30 of the offences against the state act. Local radio reports say the men are suspected of withholding information in relation to the gangland murder.

40 year old Mark Moloney was shot dead near his home in Garryowen on April 5th. 18-year-old Stephen O’Sullivan has already been charged with the murder of Mr. Moloney.

Both men being detained today can be held for up to 72 hours.

NEW DETAILS
Both men were released without charge Wednesday morning.

Shots fired in Foynes petrol station robbery

Gardai in Limerick are investigating a robbery at a petrol station in Foynes last night in which at least two shots were fired.

No one is believed to have been injured in the incident in which three men, who wearing balaclavas, entered Reidy's petrol station in the town around 10.45pm Monday night. Two assailants were armed with shotguns while the other man was in possession of a knife.

A woman who was sitting in her car outside the petrol station was taken from her car at knifepoint and led into the filling station shop.

The three, believed to be foreign nationals, left the scene by car shortly afterwards with a sum of money from a till, believed to be around €1,000.

Gardai at Askeaton are investigating and can be contacted on 061 601630.

Another missing girl turns up in Limerick

A second missing girl has been found safe and well in Limerick.

Radio reports say a 14 year old Wexford girl who had been missing from her home since last Thursday has been found outside the crescent shopping centre Monday afternoon.

The young girl is now in the care of the HSE and Gardai are continuing investigations. It is not clear whether anyone else is being sought in relation to the incident.

Just yesterday a missing 13 year old girl from Tyrone was located in Carrigkerry Co Limerick. Gardai are still looking for a Limerick man in his twenties in relation to the case.

Water main burst causes disruptions

Limerick City Council workers are dealing with a burst water main near the Roxboro Road roundabout this morning.

Some areas of the city were reported to be without running water this morning as a result of the pipe burst which happened around 7am. Areas affected include Janesboro, Roxboro and the Dock Road area.

The incident also caused some minor traffic disruptions in the Roxboro Road.

Second man dies following Rathkeale accident

A second man has died from injuries he sustained in a car crash in Co Limerick last Friday.

31 year old Polish national Adam Zajac, who was the driver of a car which crashed into a parked truck in Rathkeale late Friday night, died in hospital today.

A 30 year old man who was a passenger in the car, died at the scene of the accident. He was named by Gardai over the weekend as Tomasz Stelmasczczuk.

There were only two people in the car at the time of the accident which happened on N21 main Kerry to Limerick Road around 2.30am.

Missing Tyrone girl found in Limerick

A 13 year old Co. Tyrone girl who was feared abducted has been reportedly found by Gardai in Limerick.

Bailey O'Loughlin from Strabane was found by Gardai at an address in Limerick some time this morning. Police in Tyrone had suspected the missing teenager was in the company of a man in his twenties.

The PSNI had been liaising with Gardai believing the teenager was abducted by the man and asked Gardai to be on the lookout for a silver Vauxhall car fearing he may have crossed the border into the Irish Republic.

Following investigations, Gardai were able to trace the pair to a house in Limerick this morning, the exact location remains unknown at this time. The girl was reported missing Satarday morning.

Man dies, four injured in Ballingarry crash

A man has died and four others were left injured in a road crash Friday evening in County Limerick, the second death on Limericks roads in 24 hours.

The 25 year old was killed in the crash between a jeep and a car near Ballingarry around 9pm on Ballingarry to Newcastle West road, not far from the village’s creamery.

The four injured, a mother and her three children were transferred to hospital with minor injuries.The road was closed for a time while Gardai examined the scene but has now reopened.

Radio reports say the victim was from Adare and living in Ballingarry .

NEW DETAILS
The victim has been name as Mark Condon of Ballykevin, Ballingarry.

Three injured following Mungret crash

Three people including a pregnant woman have been injured in a road traffic accident in Co Limerick Friday evening.

Three units of the fire service along with two ambulances attended the scene of the accident which happened around 5.45pm at Baunacloka near Mungret village, which reportedly involved a pedestrian and two cars. The pregnant woman who is thought to be in her thirties was pinned against a wall by one of the cars in the incident.

The road between Mungret Village and the Fr. Russell road roundabout was closed for a time while emergency services dealt with the incident.

The injured were taken to the nearby Mid Western Regional Hospital where they are recovering. Their exact condition is not known.

NEW DETAILS
RTE now reporting the incident.

Second boil water notice issued in County Limerick

Limerick County Council has issued another boil water notice for County Limerick this week; this time affecting the Pallasgreen area.

100 households are affected by the new public water notice in areas including Knockanea, Grange West, Knockeen, Ballyart, Castle-erkin, Woodfarm, Dromkeen, Drombane, Sunville, Garranemore, Dromlara, Lisheen, Ballyvoneen, Brackylea and Linfield.

Testing by laboratory officials within the council has identified E-Coli in the Pallasgreen Water Supply.

Director of Services with Limerick County Council Paul Crowe explains,

“Due to the recent heavy rainfall in the county, the Rockhill and Pallasgreen water supplies have been under continuous surveillance. The surveillance subsequently identified E-Coli in the water supply. As Water Services Authority, on receipt of Health Service Executive (HSE) advice we wish to advise customers that, water being supplied from now until further notice should not be used for human consumption except under a number of conditions and for certain purposes.”

Earlier this week, the local authority issued a similar public alert on the Rockhill Public Water Supply which affected around 153 homes and businesses.

The council is warning residents in both affected areas to take the following precautions,

Water for drinking purposes, brushing teeth and food preparation should be boiled. Boil the water to ensure a rolling vigorous boil and then allow it to cool. Cover it and store it in a fridge or cold place.

Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic filters will not guarantee that water is safe to drink. Discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers.Use water that has been prepared for drinking (i.e. that is boiled) for preparing foods that will not be cooked, e.g. for washing salads . It is safe to drink commercial bottled mineral water.

Prepare baby feeds with water that has been brought to the boil once and cooled. Do not use water that has been reboiled several times. If tap water is unavailable, use bottled water that has been brought to the boil and cooled. Avoid using water that is fizzy, unless boiling has removed all the fizziness. Check the label: water in bottles labelled “natural mineral water” is not required to meet all the standards of tap waters.

Don’t use natural mineral water with concentrations greater than the following for infant feeding: sodium –200mg/l; Nitrate –50mg/l; Nitrite –0.5mg/l; Sulphate –250mg/l.

Water maybe used for flushing of toilets and for internal house plumbing, as well as for personal hygiene and bathing.

For anyone concerned in the area, further information and advice is available from 061-496326 9.30am–4.30pm Monday-Friday or 061-419226 at other times.

1 killed, 2 injured in Rathkeale crash

A man has been killed and two others injured following a road traffic accident in Co Limerick overnight.

The accident between a car and a truck happened on the N21 Limerick to Kerry road at the Rathkeale bypass. Two ambulances and three units of Rathkeale fire service attended the scene of the accident around 2.30am.

The injured are being treated at the Mid Western Regional Hospital in Dooradoyle. A technical examination of the scene was carried out overnight by Gardai and the road has now reopened to traffic.

Crash victim transferred to Cork University Hospital

A Limerick man who was seriously injured in a car accident on Tuesday night has been transferred to Cork University Hospital.

19 year old Jamie Marshall from Thomondgate was the driver of a car which crashed into a wall at Punchbowl, near Woodcock Hill around 7.50pm. He sustained serious injuries in the crash and was needed to be cut free from the car by fire service personnel. Three other passengers were not seriously injured.

Since the accident the 19 year old has been recovering at Limerick regional hospital however he has now been transferred to Cork. A spokesperson for the HSE in Cork says he is in a “critical but stable condition” in an intensive care unit.

Gardai at Mayorstone are investigating the crash.

Limerick Quick Hits

This and that from here and there.

:: A new €2.2m public park will open in Castletroy later this week.The recreational park will be one of the largest purpose built public amenity areas developed in the county.Examiner

::Gardai are warning residents in the flood affected region around Newcastle West to mind their flood issued sandbags after some were stolen from houses. More Here

:: RTE is to screen a low budget film staring two Limerick girls. Marie Feehan from Moyross and Kim O’Loughlin from Dooradoyle star in the 10 minute production which was filmed in Limerick. More Here

:: 22 submissions have been received so far by Limerick City Council in relation to a possible monument in memory of “those men who down through the decades eked out a precarious livelihood as dockers in Limerick Docks”. More Here

:: Limerick Blogger reports the honeymoon period between the new Chair of Limerick County Council and members of the City Council looks like its coming to an end. More Here

:: Look what Bock found. Interesting stuff.

:: “What happens in the dressing room stays in the dressing room”, not anymore. A cameraphone video has appeared on YouTube showing former Limerick Institute of Technology manager David 'Davy' FitzGerald giving the Fitzgibbon Cup Hurling Team a coarse half time talk. Video Here.

Another water notice issued to Rockhill area

Residents of a county Limerick community who were issued a water notice last week have once again been issued with another boil alert.

Limerick County Council has issued a boil water notice to customers served by the Rockhill Water Supply Scheme Wednesday, following consultation with the HSE.

The areas affected by the public water notice are Ballyteige Upper, Ballyfookeen, Howardstown North, Cappanafaraha, Ballywillin, Ballyclough Upper, Ballyinoran, Garryfine, Knockaunavoddig, Garrane, Ballynoe, Mounteagle and Lotteragh Upper.

Director of Services, Transportation & Water Services at Limerick County Council said in a statement,

“Due to the recent heavy rainfall in the county, the Rockhill Water Supply has been under continuous surveillance. The surveillance subsequently identified E-Coli in the water supply. As Water Services Authority, on receipt of Health Service Executive (HSE) advice we wish to advise customers that, water being supplied from now until further notice should not be used for human consumption except under a number of conditions and for certain purposes.”

Residents in the affected areas should be aware of the following,

Water for drinking purposes, brushing teeth and food preparation should be boiled. Boil the water to ensure a rolling vigorous boil and then allow it to cool. Cover it and store it in a fridge or cold place.

Water from the hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic filters will not guarantee that water is safe to drink. Discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers.Use water that has been prepared for drinking (i.e. that is boiled) for preparing foods that will not be cooked, e.g. for washing salads . It is safe to drink commercial bottled mineral water.

Prepare baby feeds with water that has been brought to the boil once and cooled. Do not use water that has been reboiled several times. If tap water is unavailable, use bottled water that has been brought to the boil and cooled. Avoid using water that is fizzy, unless boiling has removed all the fizziness. Check the label: water in bottles labelled “natural mineral water” is not required to meet all the standards of tap waters.

Don’t use natural mineral water with concentrations greater than the following for infant feeding: sodium –200mg/l; Nitrate –50mg/l; Nitrite –0.5mg/l; Sulphate –250mg/l.

Water maybe used for flushing of toilets and for internal house plumbing, as well as for personal hygiene and bathing.

For anyone concerned in the area, further information and advice is available from 061-496326 9.30am–4.30pm Monday-Friday or 061-419226 at other times.

Four injured following Woodcock hill crash

At least four people have been injured, two seriously, following a road traffic accident just outside Limerick city Tuesday evening.

Emergency services including three units of Limerick City Fire service responded to reports of a car accident at Punchbowl, near Woodcock Hill around 7.45pm.

Two people were cut from the wreckage by the fire service and transported to the Mid Western Regional Hospital. One of the injured, a 20 year old man is reported by NewsTalk radio to be in a critical condition.

AA Roadwatch reports the road to Woodcock Hill from the Old Cratloe Road remains closed and diversions are in place while technical examinations are carried out.

NEW DETAILS (21st Aug)
'Jamie Marshall from Thomondgate in Limerick city was the driver of a car which crashed into a wall shortly before 8pm on Tuesday night at Woodcock Hill near Cratloe'. Irish Times

Bruff students organs donated to save lives

Organs of a Limerick student who was killed in a road traffic accident have been donated to save the lives of four severely ill people, it’s reported today.

19 year old Erin Whelan from Bruff died in hospital Thursday from injuries she sustained in a car crash on Tuesday night, the night before she was due to receive her leaving cert results.

The Examiner reports a 4 year old girl, a 20 year old man, a mother of 6 and a 60 year old man who is on life support, have all received organs from Erin.

Fr. Joe Foley spoke at the funeral Saturday,

‘Erin was a young woman of wit and honesty who would have made a fine journalist. The death of a young person in the prime of her life, he said, was overwhelming in its effects.

“It raises unanswerable questions, it challenges the very meaning and purpose of life, and it taxes our faith,” he said.'

More from the Examiner.

Shebeen still operating despite yet another raid

A Shebeen in the Southill area of the city is up and running again tonight following yet another Garda raid on the premises this week which saw quantities of alcohol seized.

Proprietor Francis Kelly, who runs the bar named 'My Mothers’ from his house in Lilac court apparently had the shelves restocked just hours after a Garda raid Wednesday.

The Examiner also reports Mr. Kelly has acquired the services of solicitor John Devane in an effort to get back drink previously seized in Garda busts.

“Dancing girls have been entertaining people at the Shebeen in recent weeks, and facilities include poker machines, tv and pool.

A team of 10 gardaí from Roxboro Road station under Insp Gerry McNamara carried out Wednesday night’s raid. They arrived at the premises in two garda vans. There was no obstruction of the gardaí as they went about removing crates of beers and spirits.

Gardai intend to go to the district court next month to seek an order to dispose of confiscated drink under the police property act.”
Via Examiner

Since it opened in April of this year the Shebeen has been raided at least 4 times, but to the bemusement of Gardai, always up and running again shortly afterwards.Gardai have stressed though that this latest crackdown is ‘still continuing’.

Dressing down code at shebeen suits local punters - Aug 13th

No jail for shebeen owner - April 30th

East Limerick water notice lifted

A water notice issued by limerick County Council Thursday evening for the Rockhill area of East Limerick has been lifted, radio reports say.

Director of water services for Limerick county council Paul Crowe told Live95FM that following extensive further testing by the agencies environmental laboratories and in consultation with the HSE, they are now in a position to lift the notice and says that the level of nitrates in the water is now below permitable levels.

340 people along with 153 domestic and non-domestic connections were affected by the notice overnight and early Friday.

Gardai concerned over Castletroy ‘Crime Spree’

Gardai in Limerick have confirmed that they are stepping up community policing patrols in Castletroy amid fear of a crime spree in the area.

This weeks Limerick Post carries the story on its front page citing a Garda spokesperson as suggesting that there had been an ‘increase in crime in the general Castletroy district’.

Car vandalism, theft and home intrusions have been noticeably on the increase in the areas of Castletroy and Monaleen. The paper documents two stories of the latter,

“In the first incident, a former student was in her bedroom, which was locked, when intruders tried to open her door. Fearing for her safety and not wanting to leave her room, she rang her friends, who were living across the road, to come and check the house.

When the friends arrived, they saw the intruders rummaging through the living room. They entered the house through the backdoor to disrupt them. They were met by the culprits, who began waving machetes in their faces. The students, fearing for their lives, backed away as the thieves escaped with a number of valuables, including a laptop.

In the second incident, a student was sleeping in her bedroom when two intruders climbed in her window. Uncertain of their intentions, the student let out a scream which sparked the intruders’ swift getaway”
Via Limerick Post.ie

With incidents particularly among the student accommodations in the area, ULSU president Pa O’Brien told the paper that new students coming to the college for the first time this September need to be made aware of the situation.

Keane case goes to trial in September

The case against Limerick man Liam Keane has been sent forward for trial next month.

Despite the level of Garda interest of which he draws, 23 year old Keane along with his co accused, 20 year old Greg Crawford were travelling in a stolen car and in possession of a loaded Glock pistol in the Corbally area of the city in May of this year. They were arrested by local Gardai assisted by the Emergency Response Unit after a brief chase.

Both men appeared at a Limerick City court Wednesday where Det Sgt Derek Clancy served the book of evidence in the case. Solicitor John Herbert once again said no application for bail was being made for either accused.

The case will begin at the Circuit Court on September 30th. Both men have been in custody since their arrest on May 3rd.

Three injured in Dublin Road accident

At least three people have been injured in a road traffic accident in Limerick city Thursday night.

The two car collision happened at the junction of the Dublin road and Park Road. Multiple emergency service units attended the scene around 10pm.

The three injured were taken to the Mid Western Regional Hospital where they are being treated for their injuries.

Council issues water notice to Rockhill area

Limerick County Council has issued a public water notice to customers served by the Rockhill Public Water Supply this evening.

In a press release, the Sanitary Authority is advising members of the public in the following areas that “due to the presence of high nitrates, the water should not be used until further notice, except for flushing toilets and internal house plumbing.”

The areas affected by the alert are,

Ballyteige Upper, Ballyfookeen, Howardstown North, Cappanafaraha, Ballywillin, Ballyclough Upper, Ballyinoran, Garryfine, Knockaunavoddig, Garrane, Ballynoe, Mounteagle and Lotteragh Upper.

A spokesperson for the council said in the statement,

“Rockhill is a small scheme serving approximately 340 persons and some 153 domestic and non-domestic connections. Limerick County Council’s Environment Laboratory are continuing to investigate. The Council wishes to thank the public for their support to date. A further update will be issued to the public and media in due course.”

For anyone concerned in the area, further information and advice is available from 061-496326 9.30am–4.30pm Monday-Friday or 061-419226 at other times.

Leaving cert teen dies followng road accident

A woman who was critically injured after she crashed her car on the Bruff to Croom road Tuesday night has died in hospital.

19 year old Erin Whelan who was due to collect her leaving cert results Wednesday, died in hospital Thursday surrounded by her family.The Limerick Leader reports that the woman’s life support machine was switched off.

The teenager, who wanted to study to become a social worker, died this Thursday morning at the hospital surrounded by her parents Gerard and Marian, and her two brothers Colm and Graham.
Via Liemrick Leader

Husband and wife killed in county crash

A husband and wife have been killed in a devastating road crash in Co Limerick today.

The couple, a man in his 70’s and a woman in her late 50’s both sustained fatal injuries when the car in which they were travelling in, collided with a truck on the road between Ballylanders and Mitchelstown around midday.

Local radio reports sat the woman died at the scene and the man died as paramedics tried to save him en route to hospital. The driver of the truck is said to be uninjured.

Gardai are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash and are still at the scene. Newswire understands the road is still closed to traffic.

The deceased are understood to be from the area however their names will not be released until relatives have been informed.

NEW DETAILS
The couple have been named locally as 74 year old William Chapman and 59 year old Sarah Chapman and were living in Garyspillane.

Teenager in serious condition following crash

A teenage girl is in a very serious condition following a road traffic accident in Limerick overnight.

The 19 year old woman was injured after she crashed her car on the Bruff to Croom road around 3.30am last night.

Radio reports say the woman suffered major head injuries and is being treated at the Mid Western Regional Hospital. Gardai are investigating.

NEW DETAILS
Local radio reports this evening that the young woman was due to collect her Leaving Certificate results today. She remains in a critical condition in hospital.

The woman has been named as Erin Whelan from Bruff.

Limerick Quick Hits

We haven’t done quick hits here since 2006. About time to bring it back.

This and that from here and there.

::The font page of today’s Limerick Leader carries a story of a man who is now sleeping in his own truck after Limerick City Council boarded up the council house which they say he was squatting at in Ballynanty. The man says he was paying rent. Story Here.

::Richie Bennis hasnt yet been dismissed by the Limerick County Board as manager of the Limerick Senior Hurling team, but they're looking for nominations for a new manager. Story Here

::Think you have what it takes to be the next Mr. Limerick? Story Here

::Free cultural events will take place around the country in September organised by the Arts Council, all on the same night, Friday September 19th. Limerick is a part of the occasion. Story Here.

::Some video has appeared on Youtube showing the ‘action’ from the Baton Twirling championships currently being held at the UL. Video Here

::Women in Limerick can expect to only live for 79.3 years according to a new study. Story Here.

::Limerick Minister Peter Power in his new role with responsibility for Overseas Development, is in Brussels, representing Ireland today at an emergency meeting to discuss the Gerogia-Russia conflict. Story Here.

Severe weather warnings issued

Met agencies are warning of severe weather with heavy rain and local flooding around the country for tonight and tomorrow. A weather warning issued by Met Eireann this morning reads,

"Riks of 25 to 50 mm of rainfall in the 24 hour period 0600 Monday to 0600 Tuesday 12/8/2008. Heaviest rain mainly in Munster and Connacht this afternoon and evening and in Leinster and Ulster overnight."

Met Eireann also says that there is a lightning-risk associated with the Scattered thunderstorms that will move in today.

It’s also worth pointing out that European Storm Forecast Experiment has our area under a thunderstorm warning, saying low coverage of severe weather is expected.

NEW DETAILS
"There is a risk of more flooding in many parts of the country in the next few days with heavy downpours forecast between now and Thursday."

Prisoner updates webpage with photos from inside

Officials at Limerick prison on Mulgrave street are calling for mobile phone dampening technology to be implemented as soon as possible after it emerged that a prisoner in the facility has allegedly been furnishing a bebo page with photos taken of himself inside the prison.

The Irish Prison Service is investigating how 23 year old Liam Keane, from Singland in Ballysimon was allegedly able to take photos of himself and distribute them to the outside world where they were then placed on a bebo page.

Although the bebo page itself is not now accessible, only to selected friends, this evenings Daily Star has a selection of photos on display.

Mr. Keane is currently being held in custody at Limerick prison facing a number of charges including possession of a loaded pistol on May 4th.

11 flood victims currently living in emergency housing

At least 11 people are still living in emergency accommodation following the recent flooding in west Co. Limerick, local radio reported today.

Limerick county council in partnership with the Health Service executive are leading the rehousing effort which will see many more needing to be rehoused.

Speaking to local limerick radio, Director of Housing Services Jimmy Feane said,

”We’re trying to deal with these people who have an emergency accommodation need discreetly and with compassion and understanding. Given what happened, the most venerable people tend to be those in their elder years.”

Residents affected who are still seeking accommodation are asked to make contact with the housing section of the County Council on 061 496 263. On the web at www.lcc.ie/housing

Memorial service to be held for Kilcornan climber

A memorial service will take place for Limerick climber Gerard McDonnell in his home village of Kilcornan next weekend.

His brother JJ and girlfriend Annie Starkey were scheduled to travel to Pakistan to meet other members of the ill-fated expedition. Adventurer and family friend Pat Falvey said a meeting was being arranged for JJ and Ms Starky.

"Some family members are hoping to meet up with the expedition leader of Ger's team, Wilco Van Rooijen," said Mr Falvey.

"At high altitude at over 8000 metres, it is too dangerous to mount a rescue to have the bodies returned," Mr Falvey added.
Via Belfast Telegraph

The service for the 37 year old, who was killed along with 10 others while descending the K2 Mountain last weekend, will take place at 1.30pm at Kilcornan community centre on August 17th.

An online book of condolences has been setup at http://www.patfalvey.com/condolences.php

Local councillors to brief flood victims; cleanup carries on

Fresh floods hamper efforts

An open meeting will be held in West Limerick tonight where residents affected by recent flooding will be able to put questions and concerns to local councillors.

It’s expected that local councillors from the Newcastle West and Rathkeale areas will be briefed this evening on the latest regarding cleanup efforts. Councillors will outline their own concerns regarding issues which have arisen in the aftermath of the flooding ranging from the level of damage to roads in the area, whether rates can be waved for those affected and the investigation of future flood prevention ideas.

The forum will also discuss the situation regarding elderly people that have been made homeless by the flooding as well as ruined businesses. It has again been stressed that Government funding is essential.

Meanwhile a hardware store owner in Castleisland, Co Kerry has said he is donating beds and other furniture free of charge to residents who suffered flood damage. Peter Brown of Browns Hardware shop is making beds, mattresses, bedside lockers and other furniture available.

Many homes in the region have suffered serious damage as a result of flooding from the river Arra. The chamber of commerce has welcomed the donation.

Anyone who wishes to avail of this offer must contact Councillor Michael Collins on 069 66766

The area was again affected by floods Wednesday night although not on the scale of last Thursday.All eyes in the region are now turning to Saturday morning when more heavy and persistent rain is due to move into the country.

Fatal crash on N21 near Garryduff

A man was killed in a two car collision in county Limerick Wednesday night.

The 36 year old died after the car in which he was travelling collided with another car near Ballintubird, on the N21 between Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale around midnight. Two other men in the second car were not injured.

Gardai have said that, at this stage, the cause of the accident is believed to be weather related. The victim is not understood to be from Limerick.

More flooding reported in West Limerick areas

Emergency services were dealing with even more flooding in the west Limerick area Wednesday night with Newcastle West reported to be back on flood alert.

TV3 news said in a late night TV broadcast that council officials were continuing to monitor the river Arra fearing that it could burst it’s banks once again.

As heavy rain fell across the country during the evening, Live 95FM reported a manhole cover on the N21 in the townland of Shangarry, which is just outside Newcastle West, had been uprooted due to rising water levels around 6pm. Motorists were being asked to avoid the area.

There were also concerns about the river Allaughan near Templeglantine West, as the level of the river was described as worrying. Flooding was also reported at premises in Rathkeale, Athea and Abbeyfeale.

Although the rain was heavy in bursts Wednesday, it is believed to be nowhere near the levels of last Thursday which saw millions of euro worth of damage caused by flash floods.

NEW DETAILS (7th August)
Local radio reports on of how residents in Newcastle West came together Wednesday night alongside the fire service as they watched the river Arra swell to dangerous levels.

Sandbags were distributed over fears the river may burst its banks however it never materialised.

Residents are defiant insisting that although they were not ready last Thursday, they are prepared for any flooding now.

:: Met Eireann Rain Radar

17 year old held following gun find

A 17 year old male is being detained at Henry Street Garda station this morning in relation to the discovery of a weapon and ammunition Tuesday night.

The young man was arrested after the discovery of what Gardai say was a “home made” and improvised handgun along with four rounds of ammunition during a planned search in the Garryowen area.

He is being held under Section 30 of the Offences against the State Act.

Calls for council meeting as flood cleanup continues

A call has been made this morning for a special meeting of the county council as the clean up operation continues for business owners and householders in the recently flooded areas of west Limerick.

Local councillors in the affected areas are calling for a forum to discuss efforts to prevent it happening again.

If a special meeting isn’t called, then the council will not convene again until there scheduled return at the end of September.

Local Cllr John Sheehan has said that this would be too late given the current conditions and has called for an urgent meeting suggesting it could include officials from the Office of Public works and the Irish Fisheries Board to “thrash it out” and see what remedial works can be achieved.

Speaking to local radio, a community leader in Athea meanwhile is insisting that government level aid is still needed as the clean up goes on.

Boil notice lifted following floods

A water boil notice issued by Limerick county council following the freak flooding in west county Limerick has been lifted Monday evening.

Following extensive testing by the councils local environmental laboratory staff,it was concluded today that the water being produced at the Newcastle West water treatment plant is meeting drinking water standards.

The alert was issued last Friday, the morning after the serious deluge of rainfall which caused the floods.

Newcastle West, Coolcappagh Rathcahill, Ballyine, Dually, Reens Kilscannell, Old Mill Road, Killoughteen and Killeline Group Water Supply Schemes were all affected by the notice.

Family confirm they believe missing climber has died

"A great son, brother and friend"

The family of missing climber Gerard McDonnell have confirmed in a statement to the media today that they understand the 37 year old has died on the K2 mountain in northern Pakistan.

Speaking this afternoon on behalf of the family ,Gerards bother in law ,Damien O'Brien told the media that they were extremely proud of the man who has brought honour to the family,

”We are extremely proud of the many heroic and brave achievements of our son and brother Gerard.

The last few days have been a roller coaster of emotions as we celebrated with joy his historic achievement and now we must try to come to terms with the untimely loss of a great son, brother and friend."

Irish President Mary McAleese has paid tribute to Mr. McDonnell and his family,

"Following so closely on their righteous pride, and that of the country, at Gerard becoming the first Irish person to scale K2, it is truly heartbreaking that they must now contemplate the loss of a beloved son and brother."

Reports now say at up to 11 people may have died on the mountain after an avalanche of ice trapped the group in a dangerous section of the mountain on Friday night.

Hopes fade as search continues for Limerick climber

"It's turning from celebration of success to nightmare"

Search and rescue operations are continuing today high upon ‘the world’s most dangerous mountain’ for any sign of missing county Limerick climber Gerard McDonnell.

Mr. Mc Donnell was with a group of around sixteen other climbers when they became trapped after an ice fall upon their decent from the K2 Mountain in the Himalayas; just hours after he had become the first Irish man to reach the summit of the deadly peak on Friday night.

Prayers were being said at the 37 year olds home parish of Kilcornan at Sunday mass this morning.

There was some hope late last night as word emerged that another climber from the group had made his way down to a campsite at a safe altitude. At least 3 climbers from the Dutch expedition along with Mr. McDonnell, remain missing on the mountain.

The AFP news agency reported this morning that at least 7 climbers have been killed in the catastrophe.

The Local parish priest in Kilcornan, Fr. Willie Russell, says the whole community is hoping and praying for some good news.

Official site of the expidition
K2climb.net is following the developments.
Everestnews.com is following developments.
Gerards personal dispatches.

Askeaton residents on flood alert

Emergency sandbags have been deployed in the county Limerick town of Askeaton after the town experienced localised flooding from the nearby river Deel earlier today.

RTE reports Limerick county council officials are continuing to monitor the level of the river throughout the day and into the evening.

Residents in vulnerable areas have been issued with emergency sandbags ahead of high tide which is due at 8pm.

NewsTalk Radio reports that it's believed the flooding will be “minimum and not as extensive as the damage that was caused in Newcastle West”

NEW DETAILS
RTE News reports the threat of flooding has now diminished.

Contact lost with Limerick man who reached K2 summit

The status of a native Kilcornan man remains unknown after he became the first Irish person to successfully climb the world’s second highest mountain.

Fears are mounting for the safety of Co Limerick climber Gerard McDonnell after he went missing only hours after reaching the top of the 'worlds most dangerous mountain'.

The 37 year old who now lives in Alaska reached the summit of the K2 Mountain late last night in what was his second attempt to climb the peak. In 2006 he reportedly came to within 600 meters of the top before having to be rescued.

The Limerick native is part of an international expedition and is climbing with Dutch, Australian and Nepalese climbers. The expedition group is named “K2 Norit expedition”. Six climbers in total have been reported missing after an ice fall. A major search and rescue operation has been launched with the aid of experienced sherpas and helicopters.

Reports from the official website of the expedition group say,

”Major problems on K2. A big chunk of Ice fell down and took a lot of the fixed lines with it. A large portion (latest estimate is 12) climbers who were descending can NOT move any further. They halted before the traverse or before the Bottleneck. Cas and Pemba climbed without fixed ropes and are safe in C4 and resting. Wilco and Gerard are in the group with Marco and at least a couple of Koreans waiting (we think, and hope).”

The official website (new link) of the expedition is now carrying emergency updates on the status of the team. The Department of Foreign Affairs has confirmed it is monitoring the situation.

A friend of the climber, Pat Falvey, spoke to the Press Association this morning saying,

"It looks at that moment that there is a big rescue on the mountain, above the 8,000 metre mark and it looks like Ger and a few other friends are actually trapped higher on the mountain."

A comment posted by a reader on the official site says the people of Limerick are praying for Gerards safe return,

"We are all here praying for the safe return for all the climbers, may the work of the rescue team be succesful. Our thought and prayers are with you Ger and all on K2. May the path to Camp 4 descend upon ye. From all of us praying so hard in Limerick Ireland"

More details as they become available.

K2climb.net is following the developments.
Everestnews.com is following developments.
Gerards personal dispatches.

Water boil notice issued in flood region

Limerick County Council has issued a public drinking water notice for those in the recently flooded Newcastle West region.

The boil notice has been issued for the following areas:

Newcastle West, Coolcappagh and Rathcahill, as well as the Ballyine, Dually, Reens Kilscannell, Old Mill Road, Killoughteen and Killeline Group Water Supply Schemes.

Boil notice conditions:
Water for drinking purposes, brushing teeth and food preparation should be
boiled. Boil the water to ensure a rolling vigorous boil and then allow it
to cool. Cover it and store it in a fridge or cold place. Water from the
hot tap is not safe to drink. Domestic filters will not guarantee that water
is safe to drink.’

Discard ice cubes in fridges and freezers. Use water that has been prepared
for drinking (i.e. that is boiled) for preparing foods that will not be
cooked, e.g. for washing salads. It is safe to drink commercial bottled
mineral water’, he explained.

Baby feeds should be prepared with water that has been brought to the boil
once and cooled. Do not use water that has been reboiled several times. If
tap water is unavailable, use bottled water that has been brought to the
boil and cooled. Avoid using water that is fizzy, unless boiling has removed
all the fizziness. Check the label: water in bottles labelled “natural
mineral water” is not required to meet all the standards of tap waters.

Do not use natural mineral water with concentrations greater than the
following for infant feeding: sodium –200mg/l; Nitrate –50mg/l;
Nitrite –0.5mg/l; Sulphate –250mg/l.

Water may be used for flushing of toilets and for personal hygiene and
bathing. Water may also be used for flushing of internal house plumbing.

Donal Brennan, A/Director of Services Transportation & Water Services, Limerick County Council told the media today,

“Due to recent flooding, the production of water at the Newcastle West Water Treatment Plant has been temporarily ceased. Limerick County Council is currently endeavouring to re-commence production at the plant. In the interim, we would ask members of the public in the affected areas to conserve water usage.The Council wishes to thank the public for their support to date. However, in the meantime the public are asked to conserve water in the areas supplied by the Newcastle West Water Treatment Plant. A further update will be issued to the public and media later this evening.

As the Water Services Authority for County Limerick, we wish toadvise members of the public that water being supplied from now untilfurther notice should not be used for human consumption except under anumber of conditions and for certain purposes.”

The alert likely to stay in effect until at least Tuesday 5th of August while operations return to normal at the affected water treatment plant.

Further information and advice is available from the following phone
numbers:(061) 496326 (9.30am – 4.30pm Monday - Friday) or (061) 419226
(after hours).

Minister of State to visit flood affected region

Month’s rainfall recorded over five hour period.

As fresh bursts of heavy rain inundate the flood stricken town of Newcastle West this evening, it has been reported that Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Martin Mansergh is to visit the affected region later tonight.

Mr Mansergh told national news radio station NewsTalk, that the Department of Social & Family affairs may help those residents worst hit who are not covered by insurance.

Meanwhile, NewsWire has learned that the following business have been affected or completely destroyed by the floods in Newcastle West alone:

Owen O Neills Furniture, Mallard Restaurant, Kimono Boutique, Desmond Credit Union, Cussen & Sons Solicitors, Bridge Bar, All Seasons, Dooleys, Fireworks NightClub, Objekt Furniture, The Cube hair salon and J.P. Moran & Co. Drapery.


Residents in affected areas are still being asked to conserve drinking water today as the possibility of water supply contamination cannot be ruled out.


A Radar image(below) form Met.ie shows a heavy cell of rain over the flooded region at 3.30pm this evening.



Note: This blogger is knackered tired

Flood waters recede but the damage is done

“It was like something out of a film”

Cleanup operations are continuing in Newcastle West and its environs following the “worst flooding in county Limerick history”.

The cleanup operation, unlike any ever seen, is being coordinated by Limerick county council in conjunction with emergency services. Numerous businesses including newsagents, a shoe shop, an auctioneers and a hair salon have been ruined. Numerous homes were also destroyed when the river Arra burst its bank.

Limerick areas of Newcastle West, Athea , Monegea , Glin ,Feenagh , Ballingarry, Ardagh, Broadford and Castlemahon have all been affected by the flooding but the worst of the flooding has been concentrated on the quays in Newcastle West.Adjoining roads of Maiden Street and St. Itas Road in thre town have also been badly affected. It’s feared there may be millions of euro worth of damage.

Reports on local radio today told of one story where local workers of a quarry used a front loader tractor in a desperate effort to remove water from a premise in the town.

The Waterford based coastguard helicopter spent nearly 3 hours surveying the damage from overhead this morning guiding emergency services to stranded motorists.

Roads were damaged as tarmac lifted from roads during the swell with reports that the centre of the town was ‘an ocean’ overnight. Residents in affected areas are asked to conserve drinking water today as the possibility of water supply contamination cannot be ruled out.

At this early stage it’s believed a cloudburst further up the River Arra may have been a major factor in Newcastle West flooding.

Officials from number agencies are on scene including the Fire service, Limerick county council, Civil defence, Gardai and Health Service Executive. Volunteers from the Marine Search and Rescue who were deployed to the area at 2am to rescue a man from the quays, were this morning, still on scene assisting locals.

County Councillor Patrick O' Donovan told the irish times website today,

“It was like something out of a horror film. I have never seen so much water floating down a street, there were cars and vans floating down the street.The rain was like a monsoon here last night. At one stage it was at my ankles, and as I turned the corner to leave it was at my knees."

Though the town is now passable by car, the north quay remains closed. Motorists are asked to take extra care while travelling in and around the area. Some Phone lines are down in Newcastle West with 1,500 people still without power.

The Limerick NewsWire Blog was the first to break the story at 10.45pm Thursday night following an email form a resident in the area.

Limerick Floods - First picture from the area

We have received the first image of the aftermath of the flooding in Newcastle West. This image was taken of the North Quay early this morning.

(Click image to enlarge)

Flood devastation in Newcastle West

Cars piled on top of cars, thousands without power, "Millions of euro worth of damage" as freak flooding ravages County Limerick.

>> Listen LIVE - Local Radio (Windows Media Player)

At least 5 people, including a disabled woman, have been rescued by emergency services from rapidly rising flood waters in Newcastle West overnight. A number of people have been taken to hospital suffering from hypothermia.

The town remains impassable this morning in the worst flooding in living memory after the river Arra bust its banks late last night following an onslaught of extreme rainfall.

Local radio reports this morning that some parts of the town are under 6 feet of water. A massive rescue operation involving the Limerick county Fire services, backed up by units from north Cork was launched late Thursday evening to rescue people from there homes.

Limerick Marine search and Rescue was called in from Limerick City at 2.00am to assist in rescuing a man trapped at an apartment complex. They are remaining in the town today. Power was also lost in the town around 2.15am.

Water levels are beginning to recede this morning as rescue and cleanup operations continue. The waterford based coastguard helicopter was circling the town this morning coordinating rescue efforts.

People reported stranded in their cars on the road to Ballingarry, out of Newcastlewest have been rescued this morning.