John Cussen, Newcastle West, Tim Donovan, Rathkeale and Michael Kennedy, Newcastle West. — Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society —
Thomond Archaeological and Historical Society went on a 4 day outing to Northern Ireland in September. We travelled by coach and stayed in the Carrickdale Hotel, just south of the border. Among the places of interest visited were Armagh Cathedrals, Tomás O’Fiach Library, Navan Fort, the Titanic, Down Patrick Museum and Jail and Castle Ward House.
Good weather favoured us, especially on our trip up the Antrim coast, Glenariff and the Giant’s Causeway. Of special interest to everyone was our visit to Stormont which was facilitated by the Sinn Féin office. It is a most impressive building in a scenic setting. We looked down on the proceedings of the house from the visitors’ gallery and listened to some issues of the day being debated. Our hotel was very satisfactory and comfortable, our bus drivers (Carrick Coaches, Kildimo) were most competent and helpful. We concluded our outing with dinner in the White House, Roscrea. This concluded the society’s outings for 2015 which included trips to Abbeyfeale, Mountcollins, Holland and Belgium, Cobh, Bruree and Athlacca, Limerick city, Abington and Glenstal, Tulla and Galway city. The society welcomes new members, contact Pat O’Donovan PRO (087-9977340). Lectures take place each month from November to March in Mary Immaculate College (see local press for details).