Interviewed by Michael Donnelly / photos by Emilija Jefremova

Micheal: How long have you lived in the area?
Alice: 83 years.

Micheal: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Alice: I have lovely memories of my life- going to school and playing with my neighbours, the O’Donohoue family, next door.

Micheal: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Alice: Oh yes I have, what a different time! It’s so hard to get used to it (the lockdown). We can’t go to mass.

Micheal: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Alice: I go walking, say my prayers and sew my flowers. My favourite thing was going on skype and phone calls with my friends and family.

Micheal: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Alice: There isn’t much you can do now. I watch television and I do a bit of knitting and sewing.

Micheal: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Alice: I want to see better times. At least, that we don’t get locked down all day.

Pictured below is a photo of Micheal Donnelly at the graveside of his great-great grandfather Patrick O’Rourke, Lissycasey, who was killed on May 21st 1921 during the War of Independence.