By JJ Hurley

OVER 17 history societies were represented at the second AGM of the West Cork History Societies Association (WCHSA), held at the Christian Fellowship Hall, Bantry.

Stretching from Kinsale and Ballincollig in the East to the Beara Peninsula in the West, the society’s chairman, William Casey, paid tribute to the positive response from all the groups in West Cork in making the WCHCA a success.

In outlining the results of a survey across all societies compiled by outgoing secretary Dr Con Kelleher, Mr Casey said: ‘It was obvious from the survey that there were vibrant societies across the area, with a variety of talents featured in lectures, publications, and preserving the history of their areas.

There was agreement from all those attending that the survey and its results would ultimately prove crucial for societies to learn from each other, as individual groups have specific skill sets that can play an important role in the development of other history groups.’

With a strong presence on social media, Mr Casey said its viewership and following were growing, with one post on its Facebook page recently attracting 8,000 views alone.

If there were any real concerns, there was agreement among the large attendance of a need to attract more people to the executive of societies, particularly young people.

Reflecting on last year, the success of the one-day seminar on emigration at the Kilmurray War of Independence Museum had proven very successful, with a number of notable speakers in attendance including Terri Kearney, Ultan Cowley, Jarlath MacNamara, Dr Miriam Nyhan Grey, Dr James Walsh and Colum Cronin who provided the musical interludes during the day.

As well as paying tribute to all those who had played a part in the success of the day, treasurer Colum Cronin paid a special tribute to Conor Neiligan, the Heritage Officer with Cork County Council, whom he thanked for his ongoing support for all societies in West Cork.

While there are no plans for a seminar this year, the West Cork grouping is planning to travel to Cape Clear, and members have been invited to an Oral Heritage Training Session with Dr Tomás Mac Conmara in early April.

In the election of officers for the coming year, Mr Casey was returned as chairperson. Mr Cronin, who returned a healthy bank balance, retained the role of treasurer. While Dr Kelleher said he was unable to stay on as secretary and was replaced by Mr Tony McCarthy, he did agree to stay on the committee.

Joining Dr Kelleher on the committee for the coming year are JJ Hurley, Tim Feen, Marian O’Leary, Chris Peters, Dorothy Brophy and Tommy Collins.

Anyone seeking information on WCHSA can email [email protected] or visit www.westcorkhistory.ie