The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
‘It’s an exciting occasion for PROBUS and for Tralee town’ – Liam Sayers
THE All Ireland Rally is one of the most celebrated events in the PROBUS calendar as clubs from all over Ireland converge on the same location for a celebration and to exchange stories while forming new friendships. Over 700 delegates are expected to make the trip to Tralee and Liam Sayers, President of the PROBUS ’97 Club and Chairman of the Steering Committee, is excited that preparations are nearing completion for the main event which runs from May 15-17.
“We’re very much looking forward to it as it’s the first time since 2002 that Tralee has hosted this event,” Liam said.
Following registration, delegates will gather in The Mall at 4pm on Tuesday (15th) where a parade of all the clubs, holding their own banners, will commence. On arrival at the Brandon Hotel the marchers will receive a civic reception from Mayor of Tralee, Norma Foley. This will be followed by a wine reception in the hotel and afterwards by a gala variety concert by the award-winning Opus 96 Chamber Choir which will conclude the opening day’s schedule. MC for the evening will be actor and storyteller, Owen McMahon.
Wednesday promises to be an interesting day also with a stellar line-up of speakers that includes Jim Daly, Minister with responsibility for Mental Health in Older People. Moreover, former Ministers Dick Spring and Mary O’Rourke will address delegates. The final day (Thursday 17th) will play host to a variety of bus tours to sites of interest in Killarney, Dingle, Waterville Cahersiveen, Killorglin, Dingle and Slea Head, as well as walking tours and numerous local visitor attractions. The entire event will have a positive effect on the local economy with accommodation bookings, shopping and socialising also expected take place with delegates enjoying everything the capital has to offer. Liam Sayers said it’s all about showcasing Tralee as Ireland’s Best Large Town and more recently the accolade of Ireland’s Most Enterprising Town.
“In essence, the social side of PROBUS is the most important part of it. Social isolation and loneliness can affect people of any age, but particularly older generations in cases where a partner may have died, or the children are all grown up and have left home. This is often a time when social inclusivity becomes even more important, something that PROBUS clubs have helped to combat.”
Liam continues: “At most of our meetings we invite a speaker and they relate to us their own stories. Speakers would also be there in an advisory role speaking about such topics as physical and mental health. All our discussions are very informative. Humour is also very important as we don’t want to take ourselves too seriously. We’re all very much looking forward to this exciting event and we hope as many members as possible enjoy the occasion.”