Healthy Ireland 2020 CalendarAN INITIATIVE OF

SEALED WITH A KISSPHOTOGRAPH: FERGAL PHILLIPS

Finnula Heaney is congratulated by her son Dylan after finishing the Dublin Marathon.

Live healthier, live better, live longer.. .

I t’s not only the start of a New Year but also a new decade, so it’s as good a time as any to start improving your health.

There are signs that more and more of us are choosing to lead healthier lives. For example, our smoking rate continues to fall and we now have 165,000 fewer smokers than five years ago. Quitting smoking is one of the most important things you can do to prevent ill health, but there are plenty of other steps we can all take to have a positive impact on our health.

Healthy Ireland, a Government initiative, aims to encourage everyone to be as healthy as possible. Making even small changes in how physically active we are every day and watching what we eat can greatly help reduce the risk of future illness, as well as improving our physical and mental wellbeing today.

For the Government’s part, we are investing in sport and wellbeing by expanding and improving cycle lanes, greenways, walking routes and sports facilities across the country. Since I became Taoiseach, we provided more than €100 million in grants to more than 3,000 sports clubs around the country.

We’re also continuing to focus on prevention, and on making the healthier choice the easier choice. Last year, we started new prevention initiatives in relation to HIV and to skin cancer, and set up a new vaccine alliance to help parents and carers get trusted and accurate information to help them protect their children from serious illness.

Healthy Ireland, working with a range of partners at local and national level in every county in Ireland, will continue to help you, your family and your community to make this your year to improve your health and wellbeing.

So, at the start of this new decade, check out how Healthy Ireland could help you to make a start on a healthier journey for you and your family.

LEO VARADKARTAOISEACH

AN INITIATIVE OFTHINKING DEEPLY PHOTOGRAPH: MARK CONDREN

Long-distance open water swimmer, Rachael Lee.

Sponsored by

European Cervical Cancer Prevention WeekUntil 26 January

Operation Transformation Walks Nationwide

Ireland Lights Up GAA PitchesUntil 26 February

Chinese New Year

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

30 31 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31 1 2

Third Quarter

New Moon

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

February 2020Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

December 2019

First Quarter

New Year’s Day

Quitting is winning — If you’re a smoker. you can QUIT and we can help — quit.ie

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse

HARDY SOULS PHOTOGRAPH: FRANK McGRATH

Swimmers prepare to take to the cold water before dawn at Dublin’s Forty Foot.

Healthy Ireland is here to help us all improve our health and wellbeing. We’re living longer so we want to ensure we live well, as we age. Keeping active in body and mind is a simple way to keep well. Thinking about making a start is often harder than actually doing it, and doing it with someone will make it even easier. So why not take the plunge, join a group and make a new start for this decade. Check out gov.ie/healthyireland for ideas from our partners.

January2020 Eanáir2020

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

January

International Epilepsy Day Sexual Health Awareness Guidance WeekUntil 14 February

Operation Transformation 5k Runs

World Cancer Day

National No Smoking Day

Ash WednesdayShrove Tuesday

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

27 28 29 30 31 1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24 25 26 27 28 29 1

Third Quarter

New Moon

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

March

First Quarter

Full Moon

February2020 Feabhra2020

St Brigid’s DayRBS Six NationsIreland v Scotland, 4.45pm

St Valentine’s Day

BE PREPARED PHOTOGRAPH: STEVE HUMPHREYS

Zoë Humphreys (13) enjoying a rain shower at Donabate Beach.

Getting out and about in nature and a good dose of fresh air is sure to leave you feeling energised. A recent Healthy Ireland survey showed only 49% of people are achieving the recommended level of physical activity. The benefits of 30 minutes of daily exercise are numerous. Get outdoors no matter what the weather and spend some time with family, friends and community. Explore some great opportunities and locations: Getirelandwalking.ie; getirelandactive.ie; mountaineering.ie; trails.ie; opw.ie

Battle Cancer 2020

RBS Six NationsIreland v Wales, 2.15pm

RBS Six NationsEngland v Ireland, 3pm

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

AprilMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

February

World Kidney Day

Daffodil Day

National Brain Awareness Week Until 22 March

Global Alcohol Policy Conference 2020, Dublin Until 11 March

HPV Awareness Day

World TB Day (24th)

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

24 25 26 27 28 29 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23/30 24/31 25 26 27 28 29

Third Quarter

New Moon (24th)

First Quarter

Full Moon

March2020Márta2020

St Patrick’s Day March Equinox Mother’s Day

International Women’s Day

World Down Syndrome Day

MOVING FORWARD PHOTOGRAPH: DOUGLAS O’CONNOR

Daragh Mac Giolla Dhuibh of Gaelscoil Ros Eo faces up to the challenge from Donnacha Mac Fiach and Stephen Prís of Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada in Corn Chlanna Gael at Croke Park.

Encouraging your little ones to participate in sport is well worth the effort. Sport not only helps them to be physically active, but can teach them cooperation, build confidence and resilience and help them to make new friends. Get involved in your local sports organisations or through your school. Check out: Irishsport.ie; Activeschoolflag.ie; Sportireland.ie; GAA.ie; Dailymile.ie; parkrun.ie

RBS Six NationsIreland v Italy, 2.15pm

RBS Six NationsFrance v Ireland, 8pm

UEFA European Championship Qualifying Play-OffSlovakia v Rep of Ireland, 7.45pm

Cheltenham FestivalUntil 13 March

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

MarchMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

May

European Immunisation WeekUntil 26 April

World Autism Awareness Day

World Health Day

Active School Week Until 1 May

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

30 31 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 1 2 3

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

April2020 Aibreán2020

Good Friday

Easter MondayIrish Grand National, Fairyhouse

TWO’S COMPANY PHOTOGRAPH: JOHN ALLEN

Conor from Cork with his Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind Assistance Dog Quelda.

One in 7 of the population in Ireland identify as having a disability — some may not be visible, yet can have a major impact on person’s life. Healthy Ireland wants to support everyone to have a good life and maximise their full potential. Disability shouldn’t be a barrier and there are many supportive organisations. Check out: hse/disability.ie; Caracentre.ie; Specialolympics.ie

Easter Sunday

First Quarter

Aintree Grand National

Golf: Augusta MastersUntil 12 April

Fairyhouse Easter FestivalUntil 13 April

Punchestown FestivalUntil 2 May

World Asthma Day

World Hand Hygiene Day

World MS DayUEFA Champions League FinalAtatürk Stadium, Istanbul

World No Tobacco Day

Women’s Mini Marathon

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

AprilMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

June

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

27 28 29 30 1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

May2020 Bealtaine2020

May Day/Bank Holiday

AMONGST WOMEN PHOTOGRAPH: GERRY MOONEY

Christopher Marsan stands out from the crowd at the start of the Women’s Mini Marathon in Dublin.

A Women’s Health Taskforce was set up by The Department of Health in 2019 to improve women’s health outcomes and their experiences of care and health services. To keep up to date with progress check out gov.ie/en/campaigns/-womens-health It’s important to protect health and keep up to date with regular screening including breast and cervical screening. Learn more about screening tests at screeningservice.ie

National Volunteering WeekUntil 24 May

Walk to School WeekUntil 25 May

National Community GamesUntil 31 May

Rugby: European Challenge Cup FinalStade Vélodrome, Marseille

Rugby: Heineken Champions Cup FinalStade Vélodrome, Marseille

Golf: Irish OpenMount Juliet, until 31 May

Tattersalls International Horse Trials Until 31 May

UEFA Europa League FinalStadion Energa Gdańsk

Golf: USPGA ChampionshipTPC Harding Park, San Francisco, until 17 May

Bloom in the ParkUntil 1 June

LGBTQ Pride

World Blood Donor Day

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

MayMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

July

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30

Third Quarter

New MoonSolar Eclipse

First Quarter

June2020 Meitheamh2020

Father’s Day

LET FOOD BE THY MEDICINE PHOTOGRAPH: PAT MOORE

Dara McGauran, Daniel Sangodele, Robert Stanistow and Ishan Emil Jhurry from St Patrick’s Primary School, Lombard Street, Galway, overall school winners of the Incredible Edibles Programme 2018.

Eating well is important for all of us. Eating one more piece of fruit or veg a day helps to get closer to the recommended amount. Sharing fruit can help you and others experience, taste and hopefully eat more. Check out safefood.eu to find out some great recipes and for tips on a healthy, balanced diet. Also see makeastart.ie, hse/healthyeating.ie and bordbia.ie

Full Moon Lunar Eclipse

June Bank HolidayWorld Bike WeekUntil 14 June

Men’s Health WeekUntil 21 JuneUEFA Euro 2020 Group EPoland v Play-off Winner B, 5pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin

National Carers WeekUntil 14 June

Summer Solstice

Golf: US OpenWinged Foot GC, until 21 JuneBloomsday

Irish Derby FestivalCurragh Racecourse, until 28 June

UEFA Euro 2020 Group ESweden v Play-off Winner B, 2pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin

UEFA Euro 2020 Group ESpain v Play-off Winner B, 5pm, Bilbao Sweden v Poland, 5pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin

UEFA Euro 2020 Round of 161D v 2F, 5pm, Aviva Stadium, Dublin

Dublin Horse ShowRDS, until 19 July

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

JuneMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

August

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

29 30 1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 30 31 1 2 3

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

July2020 Iúil2020

SUNNY SMILES PHOTOGRAPH: PATRICK BROWNE

Sisters Katie and Emma Byrne enjoy a day at the beach on the Waterford coast.

Forty percent of all cancers can be prevented as they’re linked to how we live — what we eat, drink, how much we move and whether we smoke all have a role to play. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. So whatever the weather, from April to September, we need to protect our skin and that of our children against the high risk of UV damage and skin cancer. Check out: www.hse.ie/cancer and QUIT.ie

World Hepatitis Day

Lunar Eclipse

International TestAustralia v Ireland, Brisbane

International TestAustralia v Ireland, Sydney

Galway Races Summer FestivalBallybrit, until 2 August

Golf: The Open ChampionshipRoyal St. George’s Golf Course, until 19 July

UEFA Euro 2020 Final8pm, Wembley Stadium, London

International Youth Day

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann Mullingar, until 9 August

Rose of Tralee FestivalUntil 25 August

All-Ireland Hurling Final

All-Ireland Football Final

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JulyMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

September

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

27 28 29 30 31 1 2

3 4 5 6 7 8 9

10 11 12 13 14 15 16

17 18 19 20 21 22 23

24/31 25 26 27 28 29 30

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

August2020 Lúnasa2020

August Bank Holiday

CONNECTIONS PHOTOGRAPH: CLARE KEOGH

Uzma Shaheen and Aileen Linehan of Sanctuary Runners pictured before a run at The Marina, Cork city centre.

Healthy Ireland aims to build healthy communities all over the country. Healthy cities and counties connect and mobilise people and organisations at a local level. And getting involved and connecting with people is proven to be good for your mental health. See ‘Get involved’ on gov.ie/healthyireland and check out what’s happening in your local community at volunteer.ie; menssheds.ie and parkrun.ie

World Breastfeeding WeekUntil 7 August

Community GamesUntil 16 August

World Sexual Health DayElectric PicnicStradbally, until 6 September

Irish Heart Month - IHF | World Alzheimers Month

Suicide Awareness Day

World Alzheimer’s Day World Contraception Day National Fitness Day

National Community Walking Day

Great Dublin Bike Ride

All-Ireland Camogie Finals

All-Ireland Ladies Football Finals

Dublin Fringe FestivalUntil 20 September

Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Prevention Awareness Day

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

AugustMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

October

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

31 1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 1 2 3 4

Third Quarter

First Quarter

Full Moon

September2020 Meán Fómhair2020

National Ploughing ChampionshipsBallintrane, Fenagh, Co Carlow, until 17 September

AGE IS JUST A NUMBER PHOTOGRAPH: ANDREW DOWNES

Brendan Flynn, founder of the Clifden Arts Festival retires after 42 years working on the event.

We’re living longer and we want to ensure we live well as we age. Positive ageing allows us to weather the changes we experience — keeping active in body and mind, and keeping in touch with friends and neighbours are powerful ways to ensure we enjoy a healthier older age. Joining a walking group is a good way to achieve this — find one near you at getirelandwalking.ie

Positive Aging WeekUntil 2 October

New Moon

Autumn Equinox

European Week of SportUntil 30 September

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

National Breastfeeding WeekUntil 7 October

World Sight Day World Mental Health Day World Obesity Day

European Restart a Heart Day

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

SeptemberMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

November

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

28 29 30 1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31 1

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

October2020 Deireadh Fómhair2020

October Bank Holiday Halloween

Summer Time Ends

Dublin Marathon

SOMEWHERE OVER THE RAINBOW PHOTOGRAPH: DAMIEN EAGERS

A couple out walking as a rainbow appears after a shower off the coast of Skerries, Co Dublin.

Alcohol can mask problems and make life’s ups and downs harder to deal with. Cutting back on alcohol and learning better ways to manage our mental health can make us stronger, healthier and happier. There are lots of ways to promote good mental wellbeing — like being active, talking about our problems and keeping connected. Check out: AskAboutAlcohol.ie; yourmentalhealth.ie and spunout.ie.Your Mental Health information line provides signposting to mental health supports — Freephone 1800 111 888

Full Moon

Movember — Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

International Volunteer Managers Day

World Diabetes Day

International Men’s DayWorld COPD Day Antibiotic Awareness Day

EU Alcohol Awareness WeekUntil 20 October

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

OctoberMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

December

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

26 27 28 29 30 31 1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23/30 24 25 26 27 28 29

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon (30th)

November2020 Samhain2020

Science WeekUntil 15 November Remembrance Sunday

WINTER BEAUTY PHOTOGRAPH: GERRY MOONEY

Luke and Niamh Maguire from Kilrush in Co Clare walking in the rain.

Vaccines are important to protect your family’s health and to prevent the spread of serious disease. A Vaccine Alliance, set up by the Department of Health in 2019, aims to support parents and healthcare professionals and ensure everyone has the information they need. Check out: immunisation.ie and Mychild.ie

Lunar Eclipse

World Aids DayInternational Day of People with Disabilities Volunteer Ireland Awards International Volunteer Day

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

NovemberMo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

January 2021

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

30 1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31 1 2 3

Third Quarter

New Moon

First QuarterWinter Solstice

Full Moon

December2020Nollaig2020

Winter SolsticeChristmas Day

YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR WEALTH PHOTOGRAPH: MARK CONDREN

A jogger runs along Dollymount Strand in Dublin.

The Department of Health is working to lead and shape Ireland’s health and social care system so we can all live healthier, live better and live longer. Slaintecare is the ten-year plan to reform Ireland’s health services. See more information on gov.ie/health

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

Solar Eclipse

St Stephen’s DayLimerick + Leopardstown Racing Festivals

Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

December 2020Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28

February 2021

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Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

28 29 30 31 1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Third Quarter

New Moon

First Quarter

Full Moon

January2021 Eanáir2021

New Year’s Day

ALL TOGETHER NOW PHOTOGRAPH: STEVE HUMPHREYS

Lucy Ironside from Spanish Point, Anwar Hassan from Chad Africa and Lorna Cahill from Miltown Malbay taking part in an early-morning swim with the Snamhaí Sasta Group at Spanish Point in Co Clare.

The impact of positive social interaction cannot be underestimated. Mobilising communities to respond to the challenges that affect their communities is a key to a healthier Ireland. Volunteering is at the core of every community and while giving time to others there’s also a benefit for your own health. Get involved with what’s happening in your local community at volunteer.ie; menssheds.ie and parkrun.ie

RUNNING FOR SMILESPHOTOGRAPH: MARK CONDREN

Eight-year-old Emma Purcell runs through the sand dunes.

DANCE NATIONPHOTOGRAPH: GERRY MOONEY

Shay Wade from Blanchardstown and Shell Haverty from Loughrea, Co Galway

get in to the swing of things as Derek Ryan and his band play on the main entertainment stage at the National

Ploughing Championships.

3336_HEALTHY_IRELAND_COMMUTER_SQUARE_AT10PC_V3.indd 202/04/2019 16:16