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Kitty Donohoe

Interviewed by Padraic & Cormac Mulligan / photos by Emma O’Brien

Padraic & Cormac: How long have you lived in the area?
Kitty: 50 years.

Padraic & Cormac: What’s a fond memory you have of living here?
Kitty: Ahh, great memories of the children growing up and people calling into the house and céilidhlíng and having a cup of tea and a laugh, things like that. Great memories of old times, céilí dances below in the Latin School on a Tuesday night.

Padraic & Cormac: Have you seen this community come back from hard times before?
Kitty: Yes, hard enough times growing up. We had none of the luxuries they have now. They worked hard and sure, they knew nothing different. There were no tractors, it was all done by horses out in the fields, and milking cows by hand. I helped with the milking too, baking, washing and whatever had to be done. Hard work and good neighbours helped us get through. Everyone helped each other.

Padraic & Cormac: What are some things that have helped you through lockdown and what brings you joy?
Kitty: The family coming, bringing shopping to the door. They wouldn’t come in, but maybe sit outside for an hour. I would read too. I wouldn’t be a big television person. My grandkids bring me joy. I have a bit of divilment with them.

Padraic & Cormac: What does community mean to you? What sort of things are you doing now to stay connected to your community and family?
Kitty: People around, and my neighbours mean a lot. We ring each other and have a chat. I like to go social dancing on a Sunday. I’d have visitors here most nights. I pick up my two grandsons from school every day, get their dinner, and help them with their homework.

Padraic & Cormac: What message do you want to share for yourself and this community in 10 years time?
Kitty: Well, I hope we’re all alive and well. There’s too much of this internet and phones, and children with phones. I think they’d be better off playing football. I hope the children stay safe and nothing happens to them and keep going, no matter what.

Shown below are images from Kitty’s shoot with photographer Emma O’Brien.

Kitty Donohoe

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