Weekly Update: Limerick introduces its first female postmaster
In the realm of Irish entertainment and sports, this week marks significant birthdays for several prominent figures. Maïa Dunphy, a versatile television producer, broadcaster, writer, and radio and TV presenter, turns 49. The Edge, lead guitarist for U2, celebrates his 64th birthday. Meanwhile, football pundit and former professional footballer Roy Keane turns 54.
Music took centre stage in 1979, with Shakira's 'Hips Don't Lie' featuring Wyclef Jean breaking the record for most radio plays in a single week in 2006. However, the top song in Ireland during the week of August 4th - 10th, 1979, remains undiscovered. On the other hand, 'So Good' by Boyzone was the number one single in Ireland in 1995, marking their third consecutive number one there. In 2006, "Hips Don't Lie" was the top song in Ireland, noted for breaking radio play records and being the fastest-selling digital download in the US.
Sports enthusiasts might remember the gig at Park Ui Chaoimh in 1987, which was the final show on the European leg of U2's Joshua Tree tour. Over 50,000 fans turned out to witness the event, with UB40, The Dubliners, and The Subterraneans providing support. In 2012, Armagh won their second All-Ireland title since 2002 in a tense and suffocating decider against Galway. The contest between Armagh and Galway in 2024 produced a cagey opening 35 minutes, but a goal from Aaron McKay in the 46th minute gave Armagh the momentum it needed to win. The game finished with a score of Armagh 1-11 and Galway 0-13.
In the world of Irish television, RTE series Scannal made its debut on Irish television in 2004. The show delved deeper by examining the impact of significant events on individuals, families, and the communities at their heart. In 2019, Aisling Bea's new series This Way Up received rave reviews on UK's Channel 4.
Notable achievements in Irish history include Declan Mackell becoming the first Irishman to sail around the world single-handed in 1982. In 2005, Dolores McNamara from Limerick won over €115 million in the Euromillions, the biggest jackpot in European lottery history at the time. In 1979, 18-year-old Patricia Dollard made history as the first postlady in Limerick, Ireland.
The series examines pivotal moments in Irish social history, tracing the scandals that have shaped the country. In 2012, Katie Taylor became an Olympic champion at the London 2012 Games.
The Edge, amidst his successful career as lead guitarist for U2, will celebrate his 64th birthday, highlighting a fusion of entertainment and lifestyle. On the contrary, in the realm of general news, 18-year-old Patricia Dollard marked a milestone in education and self-development in 1979, becoming the first postlady in Limerick, Ireland.
