The Sliabh Luachra Bee-Keeping Club was set up in the Castleisland Community College on November 28th. 2011 by means of a series of night classes on beekeeping being held at the college at that time.
“On the first night of the meetings, 17 new and eager men and women signed on to join the club and apart from myself many of the new members had no beehives or practical experience in beekeeping,” said club founder and former community college teacher, Billy O’Rourke.
Three Tonnes of Honey
“However, the club has now grown from strength to strength and this year alone over three tonnes of honey has been produced by the members during the months of April to July alone.
“Due to awareness and popularity of beekeeping the club members have now decided to offer their expertise and knowledge to new members who wish to take this opportunity to learn the skills of beekeeping early in the new year.
Bees and the Ecosystem
“The full itinerary on dates and cost will be announced at a later stage. Bees are vital to the ecosystem and due to human activities, there has been a rapid decline in natural pollinators.
“Beekeeping is very rewarding and with the knowledge and help from seasoned beekeepers, new members can rest assured that they too can produce their ‘pot of honey,’ said Billy.
You can contact The Maine Valley Post on… Anyone in The Maine Valley Post catchment area who would like to send us news and captioned photographs for inclusion can send them to: jreidy@mainevalleypost.com Queries about advertising and any other matters regarding The Maine Valley Post can also be sent to that address or just ring: 087 23 59 467.
