Newmarket’s community spirit shines through
LAST week’s announcement by the Taoiseach directing all schools to close has left the community in shock.
The two primary schools sent local children home with extra homework for the two week period, and will continue to stay in touch with parents with any updates, advice and guidance over the coming weeks.
Shortly before a decision was made at a national level to close all pubs, our own local establishments came together on Sunday to close their doors in the interest of the health and safety of their staff and customers.
All weekend and weekday masses have been cancelled in Newmarket until further notice. Father Francis will continue to celebrate daily mass at 10am without a congregation for the people of the parish during this difficult time. Parishioners with parish radios can listen to this transmission.
These are challenging times but it is consoling to know that our community are coming together to offer support and help to those of us who may need it over the coming weeks.
The Newmarket Community Development Association has pulled together a list of local businesses and services who will provide support to those who need it (see below).
From their Facebook page: ‘We thank all local traders who have come on board with these measures and, above all, hope this offers some reassurance and comfort to those who may need it at this difficult time. We will come through this as a community and a country.’
For the most up to date and reliable information about Covid-19 go to the HSE website: www2.hse.ie/coronavirus.
If you don’t have internet access there will be daily updates on the news on TV or on radio, and in this newspaper.
There is a lot of misinformation and false medical advice circulating on social media so please make sure you are getting news from a trustworthy source.
HOME DELIVERIES
The following shops in Newmarket will be providing a home delivery service for those who need to self-isolate or are concerned about coming to town:
SuperValu: 029-6023
Tadgh Ryan: 029-60541 or 087-9218362 Hannon’s: 029-60006
O’Keefe’s Fruit & Veg: 087-6269129 Twomey’s Butchers: 029-61904
Phil O’Reilly Butchers: 086-3494398 They will also collect from other outlets like the pharmacy and bring any of those goods with your shopping once you have prearranged this with the pharmacy.
SOCIAL WELFARE & POST OFFICE
Any concerns regarding Social Welfare Payments can be dealt with by the Post Office on 029-60001.
You can contact Newmarket Social Welfare Office @ 029 22110 or email Newmarket@welfare.ie They ask that you please phone or email rather than coming in.
There is a lot of false information going around about Social welfare entitlements - even on ‘good’ sites. Their best advice is to talk to your local Social Welfare Office to ensure you get your best and full entitlements.
COUNSELLING
Teddie Drumm from Alaimh Counselling has offered his services to any members of our community who may be feeling anxious at this difficult time.
You can speak to Teddie on Facebook or at alaimhcounselling.ie.