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Site updated on: 18 January 2012

Welcome.

Welcome to the website of Banner Beekeepers Association. We have about 70 members from all over Co. Clare. Our meetings are generally held in Ennis, with outdoor classes in Inagh and Scariff.
We are a voluntary association affiliated to the Federation of Irish Beekeepers associations (FIBKA) 

What did we do last year?

We held four lectures, a beginners course, an intermediate workshop, an information night, an open day, 4 practical outdoor classes, an info stand a couples of meetings and dvd night. 

Aims of the Association

To promote the craft of beekeeping in Co. Clare.

To promote awareness of the importance of bees.

To advise, educate and support beekeepers in the locality.

To provide a network for local beekeepers.

To hold events related to bees and beekeeping.

Latest news.

January 2012.

Date: 5th February, 2012

Venue: Falls Hotel, Ennistymon

Speakers:

• Micheál Mac Giolla Coda - "Assessing Your Colonies for Queen Rearing"
• Ben Harden - "My Method of Queen Rearing"
• Noel Power - "Queen Rearing for Honey Production"
• Keith Pierce - "My Experience of Queen Rearing"
• Tom Prendergast - "The Importance of the Drone in Queen Rearing"

The Banner BKA is pleased to announce that we are holding two Beginners Courses this year

First Course Dates: 22nd October & 29th October 2011, 2p.m.

Venue: Bros. of Charity Building, Henrietta Street, Kilrush

Course Leader Fintan Ryan

This course will include an Apiary Demonstration

Price: 60 Euro: This also includes 1 years membership to Banner BKA

Second Course Dates: 5th November & 12th November 2011, 10am - 4pm

Venue: Auburn Lodge Hotel, Gort Rd, Ennis, Co. Clare

Course Leader Irene Power, South Tipperary BKA

Price: 60 Euro: This also includes 1 years membership to Banner BKA

What does membership consist of?

• Members have the opportunity to attend 3-4 lectures a year (held in Ennis).
• We run approximately 3 practical classes/demonstrations in Summer, where beginners will get a chance to handle bees.
• We hold an open day on June Bank holiday Monday with practical demonstrations
• We have set up a queen rearing group. Open to members with 2+ years beekeeping experience.
• We have a register of experienced beekeepers willing to give advice to beginners.
• After lectures, members have opportunity to talk to more experienced beekeepers in the association
• Where possible, members are helped to obtain bees from reputable sources.

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CATCH THE BUZZ - Corn Seed Pesticide Kills Bees EZezine
CATCH THE BUZZ
Corn Seed Treatment As Lethal As It Gets For Honey Bees All Season Long, And Long
After The Season Is Gone. It Just Keeps On Killing.
Alan Harman
Frightening new research shows honey bees are being exposed to deadly neonicotinoid insecticides and several other agricultural
pesticides throughout their foraging period. The research, published in the scientific journal PLoS One says extremely high levels
of clothianidin and thiamethoxam were found in planter exhaust material produced during the planting of treated maize seed. The
work, which could raise new questions about the long-term survival of the honey bee, was conducted by Christian H. Krupke of
the Department of Entomology at Purdue University, Brian D. Eitzer of the Department of Analytical Chemistry at the
Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and Krispn Given of Purdue.
neonicotinoids were found in the soil of each field we sampled, including unplanted fields, they report. Dandelions visited by
foraging bees growing near these fields were found to contain neonicotinoids as well. “This indicates deposition of neonicotinoids
on the flowers, uptake by the root system, or both,” the report says. “Dead bees collected near hive entrances during the spring
sampling period were found to contain clothianidin as well.”
The researchers also detected the insecticide clothianidin in pollen collected by bees and stored in the hive. “When maize plants in
our field reached anthesis, maize pollen from treated seed was found to contain clothianidin and other pesticides; and honey bees
in our study readily collected maize pollen. “These results have implications for a wide range of large-scale annual cropping
systems that utilize neonicotinoid seed treatments,” the report says. The research was funded by grants from the North American
Pollinator Protection Campaign and the Managed Pollinator Coordinated Agricultural Project.
There have been red flags about pesticide exposure for some time and of the many compounds detected, the neo-nicotinoid group
has received the most attention. As a group, neonicotinoids possess several key attributes that have seen their heavy adoption in
both agricultural and urban environments, including low vertebrate toxicity and the ability to be translocated by plants.
Neonicotinoids are also persistent, offering the potential for a large window of activity. The new report says the half-lives of
these compounds in aerobic soil conditions can vary widely, but are best measured in months – 148 - 1,155 days for
clothianidin.
Among the largest single uses of these compounds is application to maize seed. Production of maize for food, feed and ethanol
production represents the largest single use of arable land in North America, reaching a record 35.7 million hectares (88,216,620
acres) in 2010 and is expected to increase. All of the maize seed planted in North America except for 0.2% used in organic
production is coated with neonicotinoid insecticides.
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Two major compounds are used – clothianidin and thiamethoxam, with the latter metabolized to clothianidin in the insect. The
application rates for these compounds range from 0.25 to 1.25 mg/kernel. These compounds are highly toxic to honey bees – a
single kernel contains several orders of magnitude of active ingredient more than the published LD50 values for honey bees –
defined as the amount of material that will kill 50% of exposed individuals, which ranges from 22–44 ng/bee for clothianidin
(contact toxicity).
In fact, the amount of clothianidin on a single maize seed at the rate of 0.5 mg/kernel contains enough active ingredient to
kill more than 80,000 honey bees.
Maize seeds are typically planted at a rate of about 12,500 kernels/hectare (30,875 kernels/acre). The latest research was begun
after reports of bee kills at Indiana apiaries in the spring of 2010 that coincided with the peak period of maize planting in the area.
Analyses of these bees and pollen from the hives revealed that both clothianidin and thiamethoxam were present on dead bees and
in pollen collected from a single hive. The compounds were also present in dead bees from other hives but not in bees from hives
that did not show mortality. Also found was atrazine, a herbicide that is commonly used in maize production and is relatively nontoxic
to honey bees.
The results prompted researchers to carry out more experiments to determine how honey bees may be gaining exposure to
clothianidin and other pesticides commonly applied to either maize seed or to plants later in the season. They collected samples
from a variety of potential exposure routes near agricultural fields and analyzed them to determine whether pesticides were
present. They sampled soils, pollen both collected by honey bees and directly from plants, dandelion flowers, and dead and healthy
bees. They even checked waste products produced during the planting of treated seed. Maize seed is sewn with tractor-drawn
planters that use a forced air/vacuum system and a perforated disc to pick up individual seeds and drop them into the planting
furrow at the selected spacing. Maize kernels treated with neonicotinoids and other compounds such as fungicides do not flow
readily and may stick to one another, causing uneven plant spacing. To overcome this, talc (a mineral composed of hydrated
magnesium silicate) is added to seed boxes to reduce friction and stickiness and ensure the smooth flow of seed. Much of the talc
is exhausted during planting, either down with the seed or behind the planter and into the air using an exhaust fan. Researchers
sampled the waste talc after planting to determine whether this material was contaminated with pesticides abraded from treated
seeds. The waste is a mixture of the talc that has been in contact with treated maize kernels and minute pieces of the seeds.
“Soil collected from areas near our test site revealed that neonicotinoid insecticide residues were present in all samples tested,
with clothianidin occurring in each field sampled,” the research report says. “Herbicide residues were also found in these
samples.”
Extremely high concentrations of clothianidin were found in talc exposed to treated seed along with fungicides applied to the seed.
Analysis of talc used to plant untreated seed found low quantities of the same pesticides, likely due to contamination and
reflecting the difficulties associated with thorough cleaning of equipment between plantings. Direct sampling of anthers revealed
that many of the same compounds were present in maize grown from treated seed, but in far lower concentrations. Collection of
pollen from traps in the field showed thiamethoxam was present in three of 20 samples, while pollen containing clothianidin was
present in 10 of 20 samples. Fungicides were also frequently detected: azoxystrobin and propiconazole were found in all pollen
samples, while trifloxystrobin was found in 12 of the 20 samples. Maize pollen is frequently collected by foraging honey bees
while it was available and maize pollen made up more than 50% of the pollen collected by bees in 10 of 20 samples. Samples
collected again last year revealed some similar trends.
“Clothianidin was found on all the dead and dying bees we sampled, while the apparently healthy bees we sampled from the same
locations did not contain detectable levels of clothianidin,” the report says. “Atrazine and metolachlor were also found, providing
further evidence that these bees were foraging near agricultural fields; as these herbicides are commonly applied prior to or during
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maize planting.
When sampled, the contents of wax combs removed from two hives at the same apiary, researchers found both clothianidin and
thiamethoxam in pollen removed from both hives. Nectar did not contain either compound. The miticide coumaphos was found at
low levels in each nectar and pollen sample as well.
Both soil and dandelion flowers obtained from the fields closest to the affected apiary contained clothianidin and this could
have resulted from translocation from the soil to the flower, from surface contamination of the flowers from dust, or a
combination of these two mechanisms. Dandelion flowers growing far from agricultural areas served as controls and no
neonicotinoids were detected.
“These results demonstrate that honey bees living and foraging near agricultural fields are exposed to neonicotinoids and other
pesticides through multiple mechanisms throughout the spring and summer. The potential for greatest exposure (and the period
when mortality was noted), occurs during planting time when there is potential for exposure to extremely high concentrations of
neonicotinoids in waste talc that is exhausted to the environment during and after planting. Furthermore, we show that bees living
in these environments will forage for maize pollen and transport pollen containing neonicotinoids to the hive. Pollen contaminated
with levels of neonicotinoids similar to those shown in our results has been known to impair pollinator health,” researchers said.
The levels of clothianidin in bee-collected pollen the researchers found were about 10-fold higher than reported from experiments
conducted in canola grown from clothianidin-treated seed. “Detection of clothianidin in pollen, both in stored pollen in cells and in
pollen traps is a critical finding because clothianidin is even more toxic when administered to bees orally, with an LD50 of 2.8–3.7
ng/bee,” the report says. “Given an average weight of 80–100 mg/bee, some of our pollen sample concentrations exceed the oral
LD50. This, combined with the result that our samples of dead and dying honey bees consistently demonstrated the presence of
clothianidin, suggests that the levels of both clothianidin and thiamethoxam found in our sampling of stored pollen in May of 2011
may have contributed to the deaths of the bees we analyzed.”
The results also showed clothianidin present in the surface soil of fields long after treated seed has been planted. “All soil
samples we collected contained clothianidin, even in cases where no treated seed had been planted for two growing
seasons,” the report says.
During the spring planting period, dust that arises from this soil may land on flowers frequented by bees, or possibly on the insects
themselves. Of potentially greater concern are the very high levels of neonicotinoids and fungicides found in the talc that has been
exposed to treated seed. “The large areas being planted with neonicotinoid treated seeds, combined with the high persistence of
these materials and the mobility of disturbed soil and talc dust, carry potential for effects over an area that may exceed the
boundaries of the production fields themselves.”
“A key mechanism for honey bee exposure may occur during the period when maize is typically planted across much of the
Midwest (mid-April through early May). At this time, the energetic requirements of honey bee colonies are increasing rapidly and
pollen and nectar resources are being gathered for colony growth. Talc and soil dusts from planting are mobile and have the
potential to contaminate any flowering plants that are commonly found in or near agricultural fields and are visited by honey bees,
including dandelion. It is a preferred pollen and nectar source for honey bees during this period, when floral resources are
relatively limited.”
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Later in the season, when planting is largely complete, the researchers found bees collect maize pollen that contains translocated
neonicotinoids and other pesticides from seed. Translocation of neonicotinoids into pollen has previously been reported for maize
grown from imidacloprid-treated seed, but the researchers say the degree to which honey bees in their study gathered maize pollen
was surprising. “The finding that bee-collected pollen contained neonicotinoids is of particular concern because of the risks to
newly-emerged nurse bees, which must feed upon pollen reserves in the hive immediately following emergence,” they say.
“Lethal levels of insecticides in pollen are an obvious concern, but sub-lethal levels are also worthy of study as even slight
behavioral effects may impact how affected bees carry out important tasks such as brood rearing, orientation and communication.”
Also potentially important are the three fungicides found in bee-collected pollen samples – trifloxystrobin and azoxystrobin and
propiconazole. Azoxystrobin and trifloxystrobin are frequently used in maize seed treatments as protectants and all three are
widely applied to maize in North America, even in the absence of disease symptoms. These findings have implications both for
honey bees located near these crops year-round, but also for migratory colonies such as almonds and other fruit and nut crops, the
report says.
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International Bee Health Symposium 2012 EARLY REGISTRATION DISCOUNT CLOSING SOON Don’t delay! Get your discounted registration only until January 11th   To find out more and to register for the meeting online go to the website: www.beehealth2012.ie Or contact the Symposium Secretariat - Email: beehealth2012@mci-group.com or Telephone: +353 (0)1 280 2641 In a novel approach, The International Bee Health Symposium will feature roundtable discussions between beekeepers and leading scientists with the aim of transferring knowledge between the two groups, creating practical solutions to dramatically reduce colony loss. Professor Robert Paxton, (Martin Luther University, Halle-Wittenberg, Germany) – Nosema Professor Ingemar Fries, (University of Uppsala, Sweden) – Varroa Viruses & Foulbrood Dr Romée van der Zee, (Netherlands Centre for Bee Research, NCB, Netherlands) – Colony Losses Professor Francis Ratnieks, (University of Sussex, UK) - Bee Behaviour & Hygienic Behaviour Speaker TBC - Veterinary Regulations of Treatments These experts have been invited to report briefly on current advances in the field and then participate in roundtable discussions which will be facilitated by the scientists and leading beekeepers. These experts have been chosen not only for their research but also because we know they communicate this very well to beekeepers. The programme will consist of 3 state-of-the-art plenary lectures, (open to all), delivered by invited experts followed by 3 concurrent roundtable discussions led by the experts and facilitated by beekeepers and researchers. This format will be repeated in the afternoon with 3 further topics and the meeting will conclude with a short plenary discussion session. Exhibition & Sponsorship Opportunities A trade exhibition will run throughout the Symposium, giving organisations the opportunity to engage with delegates and contribute to future scientific research. For more details on how to partner the Symposium, please contact the sponsorship and exhibition team at exhibition.dublin@mci-group.com or download the industry prospectus at www.beehealth2012.ie We look forward to welcoming you, Bee Health Symposium 2012 Organising Committee   .

 

 

 

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Shane McEntee TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with special responsibility for Horticulture, has announced details of the fifth round of the Grant Aid Scheme for the Development of the Commercial Horticulture Sector under the National Development Plan (2007-2013).

The closing date for receipt of applications is 10th February 2012 and only investments commenced after the issue of letters of approval will be eligible for aid.

A minimum investment of €2,000 applies in the case of beekeeping.

Further details may be obtained via the following link to DAFM website or by phoning: 01-5058797 or 01-5058801.

http://www.agriculture.gov.ie/farmingsectors/horticulture/horticultureschemes/

 

Regards, 

Joan Redmond

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Crop Policy, Production & Safety Division

Administration Building

Backweston Campus

Celbridge

Co Kildare 

Telephone: 01 5058785

Fax:           01 6275994

December 2011.

Seasons Greetings to all,

As you might be aware,I have become the latest Licenced Merchant to sell medicines for Bee Keeping.

As of yesterday, I now have a licence to sell by mail order.

I have in stock the new treatment

Api- Bioxal in 35g sachets at ?16,
vaporizers @? 120 euros,
syringes (20)ml @ ?1.20
safety kit comprising of a mask, goggles and gloves at ?12 euro.

 I have moved from Trim to 69 Heather Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate , Dublin 18 ( near to Alpac ). If you are in the area, please do call in.
 I have stocks of a few books which were recomended by a few associations, one is Bees at the bottom of the Garden @?15 and the other is the Haynes Bee Manual @ ?25 euro, both excellent for beginners.

 If you would like me to call to your association over the coming season to display and hopefully sell equipment, please let me know. Also if you need any samples of Hives to show your students, I can arrange same.
 I have Bee food in stock later on this week and I intend to keep the price of ?3 per kg bag.

Many Thanks for supporting me in the past year and I hope you have a successful year ahead.
Paul O Sullivan

 

November 2011.

Api- Bioxal

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food have recently sanctioned the use of Api-Bioxal as a medicine for bees. The product, which is based on Oxalic Acid must only be used as a supplementary treatment during the broodless period in winter as it has a detrimental effect on unsealed larvae. Beekeepers must continue to use either Bayvarol or Apiguard as a primary autumn treatment and follow up with Api-Bioxal where mite drop is excessive in winter.

The product may be administered using the trickling method or by vaporization with a suitable apparatus. Supplies of the medicine may be obtained from Ben Harden Beekeeping equipment or Mac Eoin Honey Farms who are the only Irish appliance dealers licensed to sell the bee medicines.

Seamus Reddy

President FIBKA

FIBKA Examinations 2012

Firstly I would like to congratulate all the candidates that sat the various FIBKA examinations in 2011. A total of 574 candidates from both North and South sat the various examinations most of whom were successful. To those that didn’t make it this time, I know that you will be successful in 2012. I wish to express my sincere gratitude to Dennis Ryan for his role as Education Officer in 2011. In addition to his duties as President he carried out the duties and responsibilities of Education Officer in a thorough and professional manner.

As you may be aware there were no nominations for the position of Education Officer at Congress this year and nobody has come forward since to undertake the role. So that there will be no disruption to our examination, I have decided to take on the role of Examination Coordinator for 2012. All FIBKA examinations will be available as in previous years and all enquiries for the 2012 examinations should be addressed to me as below.

Provincial Examinations 2012

The Provincial Intermediate Scientific Examination will be examined in 2012 and will be held on Saturday 31^st of March 2012. The closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 2^nd of March 2012. The minimum number of candidates for a centre is five; neighbouring associations may combine in order to reach the minimum number of five.

The Provincial Preliminary Examination will be held on Saturday 19^th of May 2012. The closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 20^th of April 2012. The minimum number of candidates for a centre is ten; neighbouring associations may combine in order to reach the minimum number of ten.

For those wishing to sit the Senior Apiary Practical Examination, the Intermediate Apiary Practical Examination, the Practical Beemaster Examination, the Microscopy Examination and the Lecturer Examination the closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 4^th of May 2012. For those wishing to sit the Honey Judge’s Examination the closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 3^rd of February 2012.

The Senior Apiary Practical Examination, the Intermediate Apiary Practical Examination and the Practical Beemaster Examination are held at the candidate’s apiary, usually on a Saturday in June or by arrangement of a convenient date between the Examiners and the candidate, there will be two Examiners.

Gormanston

The Microscopy Examination, the Lecturer Examination and the Honey Judge’s Examination will take during the 2012 Summer Course.

For those wishing to take the Intermediate and Senior paper during the 2012 Summer Course the closing date for receipt of application forms is Friday 4^th of May 2012. Those wishing to take the Preliminary paper during the 2012 Summer Course may apply at the Summer Course.

Full details and guidance including all application forms are available on the website www.irishbeekeeping.ie  All fees are listed on the application forms and can be downloaded from the website.

There can are be no exceptions from the deadlines as set out above. I would ask for the fullest cooperation from all concerned as in addition to taking on the responsibility of Examination Co-ordinator, I also have my elected role of FIBKA Secretary.

Michael G Gleeson, Ballinakill, Enfield, Co Meath, Tel No (M) 087-6879584, e-mail mgglee@eircom.net

 

Slovenia and the world of carniolan bees I invite you to choose Slovenian beekeeping routes for your next trip, vacations or excursion and learn about Slovenian beekeepers, Carniolan bee and take a step into the world of diligence, cooperation and friendship. Welcome to Slovenia! Bostjan NoÄ� President of Slovenian Beekeeper's Association www.beekeeping-tourism.si Destinations with beekeeping tourism in Slovenia Municipality Lukovica: Beekeeping as an important area of tourism Beekeepers as important co-creators of the events in the Celje fairgrounds Municipality Lukovica sees an important role in the development of tourism for two reasons: first, cooperation with the Beekeeping Centre of Slovenia, which represents a benchmark of six different trips around the area of the municipality and which includes local beekeepers. On the other hand, with the promotion of local beekeepers at various events and exhibitions of local and regional importance. The biggest local events are, the spring Peregrinâ??s and autumn Lukeâ??s fair, which are taking place at the Old Market in Lukovica. Municipality Lukovica Stari trg 1, 1225 Lukovica, Slovenia T: +386 1 729 63 00 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 1 729 63 00      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: info@lukovica.si www.lukovica.si At Celje fairground more than 3000 exhibitors from around the world are presented annually and more than 230.000 visitors come to see it. Faithful fair visitors are also beekeepers. From 16 to 18 March 2012 domestic and foreign beekeepers will gather on the 35th national beekeeping conference and on the international beekeeping sales exhibition, jointly prepared by the Slovenian Beekeeper's Association and Celje Fair. Celjski sejem d.d. DeÄ�kova cesta 1, 3000 Celje, Slovenia Kontaktna oseba: Renata KoĹĄenina T: +386 3 54 33 201 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 3 54 33 201      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: renata.kosenina@ce-sejem.si www.ce-sejem.si Other destinations with beekeeping tourism in Slovenia Municipality Dol pri Ljubljani Dol pri Ljubljani 1, 1262 Dol pri Ljubljani, Slovenia Contact person: Ivan Mlakar, president of Beekeeping society Dolsko T: +386 31 656 055 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 31 656 055      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: obcina@dol.si www.dol.si Thermana d.d., druĹžba dobrega poÄ�utja ZdraviliĹĄka cesta 6, 3270 LaĹĄko, Slovenia T: +386 3 423 20 00 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 3 423 20 00      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: info@thermana.si www.thermana.si Institute for Tourism and Culture Ĺ˝irovnica Ĺ˝irovnica 14, 4274 Ĺ˝irovnica, Slovenia T: +386 4 580 15 03 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 4 580 15 03      end_of_the_skype_highlighting Contact person: Maja Zupan E: maja.zupan@zirovnica.eu www.zirovnica.eu Stik - Tic LaĹĄko Trg svobode 8, 3270 LaĹĄko, Slovenia T: +386 3 733 89 50 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 3 733 89 50      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: tic@stik-lasko.si www.stik-lasko.si Providers of beekeeping tourism House honey BoĹžnar You can find HONEY HOUSE BoĹžnar in the heart of Polhov Gradec hills. Next to genuine nature and rich natural and cultural heritage, you will also find different bee products; honey, royal jelly, pollen, propolis and wax, which may be an excellent medicine and a beautiful Slovenian gift. Our goal is to offer to the fans of bee products new tastes and to inspire those who are not familiar to honey products to become excited users as well. We welcome any visit, however we ask for a preliminary announcement. Honey house BoĹžnar, BoĹžnar beekeeping d.o.o. Polhov Gradec 72, 1355 Polhov Gradec, Slovenia Contact person: MalÄ�i BoĹžnar T: +386 1 364 00 20 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 1 364 00 20      end_of_the_skype_highlighting E: info@boznar.si www.boznar.si VITA-MED beekeeping Posl We are one of the largest beekeepings in Slovenia, as we own 350 commercial bee colonies, which are housed in three hives and the two transport units around RogaĹĄka Slatina. We also have a small beekeeping museum at our headquarters, where we show to our visitors the process of production of each individual bee product with special tools and accessories. We recommend visiting us, when you pass RogaĹĄka Slatina. VITA-MED beekeeping Posl Ä?aÄ�a vas 46 E, 3241 Podplat, Slovenia T: +386 3 5 82 43 40 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 3 5 82 43 40      end_of_the_skype_highlighting, +386 31 419 111 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 31 419 111      end_of_the_skype_highlighting Contact person: Silvo Posl E: cebelarstvo.posl@siol.net www.vita-med-posl.si Other providers of beekeeping tourism Beekeeping and tourist farm Ĺ alamun JoĹžef Banovci 5 A, 9241 VerĹžej, Slovenia T: +386 51 606 963 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 51 606 963      end_of_the_skype_highlighting (Damjan), +386 41 740 676 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              +386 41 740 676      end_of_the_skype_highlighting (JoĹžef) E: jozef.salamun@gmail.com www.salamun.si Beekeeping museum Krapje - Beekeeping Tigeli Krapje 22, 9241 VerĹžej, Slovenia T: +386 31 761 680 Contact person: Dragica Tigeli E: jozef.tigeli@gmail.com Ecological tourist farm Ä?ebelji gradiÄ� Serdica 116, 9262 RogaĹĄovci, Slovenia T: +386 2 55 88 889, +386 41 761 050 Contact person: Andrej Kisilak E: cebelji_gradic@siol.net www.cebelji-gradic.com House with tradition Lectar, JoĹže AndrejaĹĄ s.p. Linhartov trg 2, 4240 Radovljica, Slovenia T: +386 4 537 48 00, +386 31 644 604 E: info@lectar.com , lectar.tradicija@gmail.com www.lectar.com BlaĹž AmbroĹžiÄ� Selo pri Bledu 26, 4260 Bled, Slovenia T: +386 41 657 120 Contact person: BlaĹž AmbroĹžiÄ� E: blazambrozic@gmail.com www.kralov-med.si Â

October 2011.

Beekeeping

for Beginners

Auburn Lodge

Ennis, Co Clare

November 5^th and 12^th

With Irene Power (south Tipperary Beekeepers Assoc.)

Cost 60.00 euro

Includes membership to Banner Beekeepers Assoc.

contact Banner Beekeepers at

bannerbees@gmail.com for bookings

Beekeeping

for Beginners

Kilrush Brothers of Charity Centre

Kilrush, Co Clare

with Finton Ryan (Banner Beekeepers Association)

October 22^nd and 29^th

2pm - 4pm

Includes practical demonstrations and BKA membership

Cost 60.00 euro

Includes membership to Banner Beekeepers Assoc.

contact Banner Beekeepers at

bannerbees@gmail.com for bookings

August 2011.

Hi All 

I hope ye all had a successful honey harvest and are happily busy extracting.
Having run out of them I am looking to get jars for honey from Allpack in Dublin and as things are always cheaper in bulk was wondering if anybody else was interested in talking part in a consignment of jars.
If enough people were interested (to make up an order of at least 1000 jars of various sizes) the transport costs could be shared for the following prices

I myself want to get 2 x 16oz and one each of 12oz and 8oz, so that leaves approx 800 more to make this worthwhile.

 Sorry for the short notice but with the meeting and lecture on Monday I thought it may be useful for people to collect jars at the meeting. If people are interested please let me know by return mail by Thursday evening.

OR via phone to 087 2415058, if sufficient interest is shown I would organize collection in Dublin Friday morning. 

Please let me know Jar size, Number of Trays of each size. 

I will get lids to match the number of jars – all Jars use the same lid size. 

Regards

Frank Doyle

Dear Members
I hope you had a good summer , that the bees came safely through the cold summer and that you had a bit of a crop for your efforts
we are kicking off our autumn series of lectures on Monday 5th of Sept at 8pm in the Adult Education Centre Clonroad Ennis.
Our guest speaker for the night is Jim Ryan, of the North Tipp Bee Keepers Assoc. The title of the talk is "Getting the most from your bees: A seasonal perspective" . Anyone who has heard jim before will know that he is a very entertaining and interesting lecturer.
Looking forward to seeing you  all there. best wishes Antoinette Lyons Hon. Sec. Banner Bee Keepers.
 

June 2011.

dear members i would like to hear what topics members (especially new members) would like covered for our autumn series of lectures. we would like to address the need s of all the members so any feed back is very welcome. i will be meeting plenty of speakers at the summer school in july so if i had an idea of what topics are of interest i will be able to book speakers there.
thanks for you input best wishes antoinette lyons hon. secretary  
 

dear members just a reminder that the banner bka members are invited to a queen rearing workshop hosted by the conemaras bee keepers assoc.  on july 3 at 2pm . we are hoping to organise a bus going from west clare stopping at ennis  for a pick up en route. we are subsidising it so it will be E10. for the return trip. could you please register your interest by emailing bannerbees@gmail.com. for those who wish to organise their own transport i will be putting directions on the website shortly. best wishes antoinette lyons hon. secretary banner bka

May 2011

Directions to Antoinettes house

from kinvara take road to ballyvaughan, turn right for traught beach/
dooras hostel. take 1st left at thatched cottage and continue straight.  you
will meet a sharp turn left and follow that . pass school on left and church
on right keep straight until you meet a causeway ( sea on both sides ) when
you enter the the village take a left at t junction we are last house on
left (blue).
 

To get to the community garden in Kilrush, take the kilkee road. Pass harveys vet clinic on the left and after it is kilrush medical center where people can park. Straight across from there is nagles terrace, proceed on through terrace and at the end on left is the entrance to community garden.
 

dear members due to unforeseen circumstances we have had to change our jim ryan lecture to wed may 4 . it will be held at 7.30 in the adult ed. centre clonroad ennis. apologies for this best wishes   antoinette lyons secretary.
 

directions to the orchard in dooras where the kinvara apiary demo takes place on may 14 7pm

directions to dooras orchard. take ballyvaughan road out of kinvara , take right turn for traught beach follow  road to traught and dooras youth hostel . just before beach there is a right turn for the dooras youth hostel. the orchard is behind the hostel..
thanks pat will start forwarding those messages now. regards antoinette
 

Historic Decision by Ombudsman on American Foul Brood Compensation

An ombudsman investigates complaints from members of the public who feel they have been unfairly treated by certain organisations. His/her office is impartial and independent. If he/she finds a complaint is justified he/she will take steps to secure redress for the complainant.

Last year a beekeeper in County Waterford who has American Foul Brood confirmed in his hives sought compensation for the loss of his hives from Waterford County Council. The County Council refused to pay and the beekeeper asked the Ombudsman to investigate the matter. The Ombudsman decided in favour of the beekeeper. The following is the content of the letter received from the Ombudsman:-

Oifig an Ombudsman

Office of the Ombudsman

Our Reference: L51/09/2857

29^th March 2011.

Dear Mr xxxxxxx

Xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Co Waterford

Dear Mr Xxxxxx, 

I refer to your complaint against Waterford County Council in respect of an application for compensation in respect of the destruction and disposal of 11 of your beehives as a result of American Foul Brood Disease as required under the Bee Pest Prevention (Ireland) Act 1908 and wish to apologise for the length of time it has taken to deal with your complaint.

This was because this Office was involved in lengthy correspondence, oral and written with Waterford County Council, the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, and various other local authorities. In addition the Office had not previously encountered a case similar to yours so we had to carry out a great deal of research which was complicated by the fact that the main piece of legislation the 1908 Act precedes the foundation of the State.

However, Waterford County Council have now accepted the Ombudsman’s suggestion in principle that they should make the outstanding payment of compensation due to you to the amount of €349.30 and they are currently finalising as to how the payment should be made within their administrative system.

I am continuing to monitor the situation and am hopeful that the payment will be made to you shortly. I will be in touch again with you as soon as possible. Please note my contact details are; Tel No 01-6395659, Email maurice_kiely@ombudsman.gov.iee   

Yours sincerely 

Maurice Kiely

On Behalf of the Ombudsman

March 2011.

Outdoor apiary demonstrations being run in May.

7th May, 2pm. Kilrush apiary, Fintan Ryan.      ryanhedderman@gmail.com

14th May, 7pm. Dooras Orchard Project, Antoinette Lyons.     bannerbees@gmail.com

19th May,  6.30pm. Seedsavers Scariff,  Patti Leigh-Cook.     patti@seedsavers.ie

 

Feb. 2011.

Wow! Over the weekend half a million of us have signed up to save the world's bees. Let's get to a million and get the ban now -- send this on to everyone

Dear friends,

 

Bees are dying off worldwide and our entire food chain is in peril. Scientists blame toxic pesticides and four European governments have already banned them. If we get the US and the EU to join the ban, other governments across the world could follow, and save bees from extinction. Sign the petition and forward this urgent appeal:

Silently, billions of bees are dying off and our entire food chain is in danger. Bees don't just make honey, they are a giant, humble workforce, pollinating 90% of the plants we grow.

Multiple scientific studies blame one group of toxic pesticides for their rapid demise, and some bee populations are recovering in countries where these products have been banned. But powerful chemical companies are lobbying hard to keep selling these poisons. Our best chance to save bees now is to push the US and EU to join the ban -- their action is critical and will have a ripple effect on the rest of the world.

We have no time to lose -- the debate is raging about what to do. This is not just about saving bees, this is about survival. Let’s build a giant global buzz calling for the EU and US to outlaw these killer chemicals and save our bees and our food. Sign the emergency petition now, and send it on to everyone and we’ll deliver it to key decision makers:

https://secure.avaaz.org/en/save_the_bees/?vl

Bees are vital to life on earth -- every year pollinating plants and crops with an estimated $40bn value, over one third of the food supply in many countries. Without immediate action to save bees many of our favourite fruits, vegetables, and nuts could vanish from our shelves.

Recent years have seen a steep and disturbing global decline in bee populations -- some bee species are already extinct and last week we learned that some US species are at just 4% of their previous numbers. Scientists have been scrambling for answers. Some studies claim the decline may be due to a combination of factors including disease, habitat loss and toxic chemicals. But increasingly independent research has produced strong evidence blaming neonicotinoid pesticides. France, Italy, Slovenia and even Germany, where the main manufacturer Bayer is based, have banned one of these bee killers. But, Bayer continues to export its poison across the world

This issue is now coming to the boil as major new studies have confirmed the scale of this problem. If we can get European and US decision-makers to take action, others will follow. It won’t be easy. A leaked document shows that the US Environmental Protection Agency knew about the pesticide’s dangers, but ignored them. The document says Bayer’s "highly toxic" product is a "major risk concern to non target insects [honey bees]".

We need to make our voices heard to counter Bayer’s very strong influence on policy makers and scientists in both the US and the EU where they fund the studies and sit on policy bodies. The real experts -- the beekeepers and farmers -- want these deadly pesticides prohibited until and unless we have solid, independent studies that show they are safe. Let's support them now. Sign the petition below, then forward this email:

https://secure.avaaz.org/en/save_the_bees/?vl

We can no longer leave our delicate food chain in the hands of research run by the chemical companies and the regulators that are in their pockets. Banning this pesticide will move us closer to a world safe for ourselves and the other species we care about and depend on.

With hope,

Alex, Alice, Iain, David and all at Avaaz

MORE INFORMATION

Bee decline could be down to chemical cocktail interfering with brains
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/jun/22/chemicals-bees-decline-major-study?INTCMP=SRCH

Bee briefing
http://www.soilassociation.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=RXLEm9WXrHk%3D&tabid=439

$15 Billion Bee Murder Mystery Deepens
http://www.businessinsider.com/colony-collapse-disorder-still-unsolved-lead-researcher-had-connections-to-bayer-2010-10

“Nicotine Bees" Population Restored With Neonicotinoids Ban
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2010/05/nicotine-bees-population-restored-with-neonicotinoids-ban.php

EPA memo reveals concern that pesticide causes bee deaths
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/green/detail?entry_id=79910

Beekeepers want government to pull pesticide
http://www.palmbeachpost.com/money/beekeepers-want-government-to-pull-pesticide-1107701.html

Bees in freefall as study shows sharp US decline
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/03/bumblebees-study-us-decline?INTCMP=SRCH

Pesticide industry involvement in EU risk assessment puts survival of bees at stake
http://www.corporateeurope.org/agribusiness/news/2010/11/16/pesticide-industry-future-bees

 

Jan. 2011.

Dear Member,  

            Please note the Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday 18^th January 2011 at 8pm. At the Adult Education Centre (beside Ryans Carpets), Clon Rd Business Park,       Clon Rd, Ennis. 

            There will be tea and refreshments beforehand at 7.30pm for those who would like to chat,        as the Adult Education Centre does not stay open after 10pm.

 Items on the Agenda

1.                  Minutes of previous AGM

2.                  Secretary’s Report

3.                  Treasurer’s Report

4.                  Election of Officers

5.                  Plan for 2010

6.                  Discussion on Conference in Ennistymon

7.                  Any Other Business

            Please note that           

Annua subscription remains at 22 euro (10 euro to FIBKA, 12 euro to Banner BKA)

-                   Insurance Remains at 8 euro

Membership & Insurance (optional) is 30 euro 

-           Associate Membership (for members already in another BKA) remains at 10 euro 

-                     New  Membership & Beginners Course together is 60 euro (excludes insurance) 

            Those who are unable to attend the AGM can send their subscription onto Antoinette    Lyons, Aughinish, Co. Clare, Via Kinvara PO, Co. Galway 

            Those who do not pay their membership subscription will not be informed of future events or lectures by Banner Beekeepers Association. 

            Beginners Course takes place on Saturdays Feb 26^th and March 5^th 2011, 10am to 4pm at    the Auburn Lodge Hotel, Gort Rd, Ennis – 60 euro(includes 1yrs membership)

            Please find attached the details of our Conference ‘Improving your Local Bees’,

            Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, . On  Sat 5^th and Sun 6^th of February 2011, 9am to 4pm. 20 euro per day

Wishing you all a Happy New Year,

Hope to see you soon

            Aoife Nic Giolla Coda

Secretary’s Report

Looking back on 2010, a lot was achieved in Banner Beekeepers Association. In January 2010, we held our AGM in the Clare Adult Education Centre. In early March we held the beginners course on 2 Saturdays in the Auburn Lodge Hotel. There was a great turnout with about 25 new members. The course was given by both myself and chairman Barry O’Loughlin. 

In late March, we held a lecture – The Importance of April and May in Beekeeping by John Donoghue. In mid April, we held a lecture – Swarming, Swarm Control and Nuc Production by Jim Ryan. Both were very worthwhile with a good crowd attending. 

On the June Bank Holiday Monday we held our annual Open Day at Michael Curran’s Apiary at Clooney. We had a practical demonstration with many of our new members attending. Spare beesuits were on loan from the Irish Seedsavers Association. All of them were put to good use on the day as there were many there who were not beekeepers, but were interested in possibly taking it up. Bee Hive Supplies from Co. Meath were also there selling equipment on the day. Antoinette Lyons was selling apideas to members on the day for 18 euro each which was a very reasonable price. Michael Curran, supplied tea, coffee and cake and it was a good success despite the damp day. 

We had 3 summer outdoor classes in June/July. Two were given by myself at the Irish Seedsavers Association and one was given by Barry O’Loughlin at Dave Smith’s Apiary in Inagh. Attendance in general at these outdoor classes is poor, which is disappointing considering that they are specifically run to help the beginners. A lot was going on in the hives at these classes and they would have been a great learning experience for beginners. 

We held a lecture in September – Preparing Bees for Winter by Tom Prendergast. A very good lecture with good attendance. 

Banner BKA had a  stand at the Apple Weekend at Irish Seedsavers Association. The stand was manned over the weekend by myself, Andres Paczy, Pat Rowan, Frank Doyle, Frank Benson and Pat McGuinness. It was a wonderful but exhausting weekend. I was hoarse for the rest of the week from talking to so many people who were interested in bees and beekeeping. The stand consisted of beekeeping equipment on display, one of the assoc. extactors, frames of honeycomb, photographs and information on bees. We also had a display hive on the Sunday. For those not familiar with one, it is a glass case in which you can place 1 or 2 frames of bees for a few hours. Onlookers could then witness the workers close up and the queen laying eggs aswell as seeing honey and pollen. 

We did not manage to hold another lecture in November as we normally have the last couple of years. A lot of work was being done by myself and Antoinette Lyons at that time of the year in organising the Conference in Ennistymon next February. 

The Study Group started up in November. I have not been involved in it this year due to other commitments. Frank Benson is the organizer this year and I hear it is going well and they are meeting on a regular basis. All the members of the study group are studying for the Intermediate Practical Beekeeping Exam to be held in May. Hopefully in March there will be a couple of day long workshops focusing on Practical Beekeeping with emphasis on the upcoming exam. We held these two years ago and they were a great success. They are not just for those wishing to do the exam. They are also for anyone who wishes to improve their knowledge of  beekeeping. 

We also set up a register this year. It consists of some of our members – beginners who would like advice and experienced members who would be willing to give advice. It is a bit disappointing that there isn’t a few more experienced members on the register. In Banner BKA, we are at a situation where over two thirds of our members have less than 2 years experience. A small a bit of advice available to these less experienced beekeepers would go a long way. It generally would just entail talking on the phone a couple of times over the summer. 

Antoinette Lyons, our treasurer has had a very busy year. First of all she obtained Leader funding to buy equipment to set up a queen rearing group with the objective of increasing stocks of local Irish Black Bees. She purchased the equipment and organized for its storage. Secondly, Antoinette went on to obtain an education grant from Leader. Part of  this was used for the 3 queen rearing workshops in July. The rest is being used to fund the Conference in Ennistymon on 5^th and 6^th of February. Thanks to Antoinette for all this work. 

Attached is a schedule of the conference. A lot of hard work has gone into organizing it. There seems to be a lot of interest in it with beekeepers already booked in from many associations around the country. It would be very beneficial to members of Banner BKA and if you could manage to attend for one or two of the days it would be very much appreciated. 

Over the past year, I have tried to the best of my ability to correspond and inform members of events as effectively as possible through text, email or post. I hope I have reached everyone and if I haven’t I apologise but sometimes it can be a bit of a job notifying 70 odd members. If you feel you haven’t been  notified of all the events in the past year please let us know.

I think that there should be a few more officers elected this year. No.1 a Public Relations Officer and No. 2 an Education Officer. This would get a few more members playing a more active role. It would also relieve the new secretary of a few responsibilities, considering there is enough to do as it is. Ideally there should also be a committee meeting a couple of times a year to try and help run the association more smoothly.

Public Relations Officer would 1. Notify Philip McCabe of upcoming events to be put in An Beachaire Magazine. 2. Promote the beginners course, print posters, give to existing members to circulate. 3. Email Clare Focus website about beginners course. 4. Notify Clare Champion/Clare People of the beginners course. 5. Would do anything else they could think of.

Education Officer would 1. Help to organize the study group. 2. Organise and post the applications for the exams for that year. 

As I mentioned in the previous correspondence, I will not be available for re-election as secretary. Barry O’Loughlin has informed me that he also will not be available for re-election as chairman. Anyone who would like to contribute, help with a bit of admin etc within the association should please come forward. It would be very much appreciated. There are many people I would like to thank for their co-operation during the last three years. This year, my thanks to Antoinette Lyons and Barry O’Loughlin they were great to work with. Thanks to those who helped out in someway during the year, to Dave Smith for providing a venue for an outdoor class; to Michael Curran for providing the venue, tea, coffee and cakes for the Open Day, also for providing a base at his home apiary for the queen rearing group working on increasing stocks of local Irish Black Bees; to Pat Casey for looking after our website www.bannerbeekeepers.com; to Peter Bourke and Patti Leigh Cook from Irish Seedsavers Association for loaning us beesuits for the Open Day and providing a venue for 2 outdoor classes; to Frank Benson for organizing the use of the Adult Education Centre for some of our lectures and AGM and for looking after the study group; to Kieran Byrnes for looking after one of the Association extractors; to those who helped out at the Apple weekend. Apologies if I’ve forgotten anyone. Also thanks to all those in the association who have helped out beginners in their area. This is extremely important to pass on knowledge and skills.

Secre

Please

Dec. 2010

Dear Members,

Please find below info about a Queenrearing and Beebreeding conference we are holding on 5th and 6th of February. It is being funded by Leader. Many thanks to our treasurer, Antoinette Lyons who secured the funding. We would be very grateful if you could support it and attend either one or two days. It will be a very informative weekend well worth your while to attend. A knowledge of queenrearing is essential for increasing stocks these days. The revenue will also bring much needed funds into Banner Beekeepers Association. Paul O'Sullivan from Beehive Supplies (beesupplies.ie) will also have a stand there selling a vast array of beekeeping equipment for beginners and experienced alike. If you'd like to order anything, he will deliver it that weekend. He has also donated equipment for a raffle for those who attend.

We will hold our AGM in Mid January (date to be annouced) and we will be holding a beginners course on two saturdays in late February / early March (dates to be announced). So if you know anyone interested in learning about beekeeping please ask them to ring me or email us.

On a different note. I am coming to the end of my 3 year term as secretary and will not be staying on. Due to my two toddlers and other bee related projects I'm involved in, my spare time is very taken up. Also my family and I will not be in Clare for the summer so I will not be able to help out with outdoor classes. Also in the long term, my husband and I are leaving Clare in a couple of years time. So it is essential that new people start to take over.

For the AGM, I am going to put in a proposal that the Secretary's role is divided into a number of roles. Hopefully this will make it more appealing for members to volunteer to help out. As it is at the moment the Secretary's role consists of far too much work for an association with 75 members (and this will more likely increase to 100 in 2011). A lot of jobs which need to be done do not require vast knowledge of beekeeping. And I would urge you to consider helping out a little, whether you have two years or twenty years experience.

Wishing you all peaceful Christmas and Happy New Year.

Aoife Nic Giolla Coda

Honorary Secretary

Improving your Local Bees

A Conference on Bee Improvement and Queen Rearing. Run by Banner Beekeepers Association, Co. Clare

Venue: The Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, Co. Clare  (only 20 mins from Ennis)

Date: Saturday 5th & Sunday 6th February

Price: Full Conference (2 days) 40euro;  1 day 20euro

Saturday Schedule

8.30am          Registration.

9.15am          Official Opening, Dennis Ryan, President, FIBKA

9.30am          Bee Improvement - An Overview , Dennis Ryan

10.30am          Drone Rearing, Dave Cushman

11.30am          Coffee Break

12.15pm          History of the Native Irish Bee, Jim Ryan

1.15pm          Lunch Break

2.30pm          Methods of Larval Transfer, P.J. Curran

3.30pm          Tea Break

3.45pm          Replacing Lost Colonies (inc. Queen Introduction), Tom Prendergast

Sunday Schedule

8.30am          Registration

9.30am          The Bee Improvement Group, Micheál Mac Giolla Coda

10.30am          Simple - Genetics in Bee Improvement, Mary Ryan

11.30am          Coffee Break

12.15am           Selection of Breeding Material, Michael Maunsell

1.15pm          Lunch Break

2.30pm          The Apidea Mating Hive, Gerry Ryan

3.30pm          Tea Break

3.45pm          Nucleus Production and Management (inc. Queen Introduction), John Donoghue

For booking and info contact          

Antoinette Lyons - tel: 087 2132297; Aoife Nic Giolla Coda - tel: 087 6743030

          or  Email - bannerbees@gmail.com, www.bannerbeekeepers.com

Nov. 2010

Improving your local bees  : a conference on Bee Improvement and Queen Rearing
Run by Banner Bee Keepers Association ( funded by LEADER)

Date:5^th and 6^th February 2011

Venue:Falls hotel Ennistymon co. clare 

Saturday 5^th Feb.
8.30 Registration
9.15 Dennis Ryan official opening
9.30 Dennis Ryan  Bee improvement – an over view
10.30 Dave Cushman – drone rearing

11.30 Coffee break

12.15 Jim Ryan  - History of the Dark Bee in Ireland

1.15 Lunch Break

2.30 PJ  Curran – methods of larval transfer

3.15 Tea Break

3.45  Tom Prendergast Replacing lost colonies ( including Queen introduction)
4.45 close of conference day 1 

Sunday  6^th 

8.30 Registration
9.30 Micheal Mac Giolla Coda – the bee improvement group
10.30 Mary Ryan – simple genetics in Bee Improvement

11.30 coffee break

12.15 Michael Maunsell – Selection of Breeding material

1.15 lunch Break

2.30 Gerry Ryan  - The Apidea Mating Hive

3.15 tea break

3.45 John Donohue – nucleus production and management ( incl. Queen introduction)

4.45 Close of conference

The Banner Beekeepers study group is starting.
 
Date: Thursday 4th November
Time: 8pm-9.30pm
Venue: Education Centre, Clon Rd. Business Park, Ennis.
Tutor: Irene Power
 
Study will be for the FIBKA Intermediate Practical Exam. Those who wish to take the exam must have done their Preliminary Exam.
However it is not mandatory to take the exam. And if you just wish to learn more about beekeeping, you're more than welcome to come along.

Sept. 2010

Dear Members,

Please note that there will be a lecture next week.

Subject: Preparing bees for the Winter

Lecturer: Tom Prendergast, CFL

Date: Wednesday, 8th September at 8pm

Venue: Auburn Lodge Hotel, Gort Rd, Ennis

www.bannerbeekeepers.com for a list of services provided by Banner BKA and FIBKA

Irish Seedsavers Apple Day, Capparoe, Scarriff, 25th and 26th September

Banner BKA have been invited to have a stand at the upcoming Apple Day.

I will be setting up a stand for Sat and Sun and will have a glass demo hive with frame of bees and queen.

If there is anyone who would have a spare hour or two to help man the stand, I would really appreciate it. Please let me know if you could.

Its always an excellent event with great variety and of course lots of apples! More info www.irishseedsavers.ie

One of our members has

2 x 5 frame nucs for sale in Clare, June 2010 mated queens., Price:120.00 Euro.

Contact me for more info

Best Regards

Aoife Nic Giolla Coda

June. 2010

Open Day, June 7^th Bank Holiday Monday, 2pm

Michael Curran’s Home Apiary, Feenagh, Clooney, Quin

Directions: From Ennis: Drive out Tulla Rd. Drive Past Spancill Hill, Continue for few miles past Clooney Church on right, Petrol Station on left. Next Cross turn up left drive few hundred yards,  house on right.

From Scarrif: Drive Along main Ennis Rd, 3 miles after junctions for Tulla, drive past Norrie Henchy’s Pub, Third Cross after this, you come into Clooney. Turn up Right. Drive few hundred yards, house is on right.

There will be a sign directing people to Open Day on the Main Rd.

What will happen on the day

-Very worthwile for beginners to attend, we will be opening hives, small amount of bee suits will be available to borrow for the day.

-   BeeHiveSupplies.ie will have a stand where there will be equipment, foundation, beginners packs, etc for sale

-   Banner BKA Apideas will be for sale for 18 euro each.

-   Tea, Coffee and Cake will be available,

-   Friends and Family are welcome

Summer Outdoor Classes/Demos

Essential for beginners. Taking place at

-Irish Seedsavers Association Apiary, Capparoe, Scariff, Monday June 14^th 7pm sharp

-Dave Smith’s Apiary, Crow’s Bridge, Inagh Wednesday June 23^rd 7pm sharp

-Irish Seedsavers Association Apiary, Capparoe, Scariff, Monday July 12^th 7pm sharp

Directions to Dave Smith’s Apiary, From Inagh: Take road for Miltown Malbay (between the two pubs); after approx half mile, left hand side road signposted Connolly/Kilmaley; follow the road and after approx 2 miles there is a ‘T’ junction; take right hand road (don’t go over bridge); cottage on right after 50 m, apiary just up from this

…………………………………………………………………………………

Queen Rearing Workshops (open to all members). three intensive workshop will take place during the summer Dates to be announced.

Queen Rearing Group Those who wish to join the group, please ring, text or email me. Must have 2 years beekeeping experience.

Dates of the above events will also be published on our website www.bannerbeekeepers.com

……………………………………………………………………………………………

If any members would like to help out in the running of the association in some way, please let me know. Help is always welcome.

      March. 2010.

Dear Member,

Please make a note the following dates in your diary. All members will be notified approx 1 week before each event by text, email or letter.

Meeting Wednesday March 24th, 8.00pm re proposed Leader grant (see below)

Followed by

Lecture Wednesday March 24th, 8.20pm

The Importance of April and May to Beekeeping by John Donoghue, CFL, Offaly BKA

Adult Education Centre, Clonroad Business Park

Lecture Wednesday April 14th, 8pm

Swarming, Swarm Control, and Nuc Production by Jim Ryan, CFL, North Tipp BKA

Adult Education Centre, Clonroad Business Park

Open Day June Bank Holiday Monday, 2pm

Michael Curran’s Home Apiary, Feenagh, Clooney, Quin

Outdoor Classes/Demos during summer (Dates to be announced)

Taking place at

- Irish Seedsavers Association Apiary, Capparoe, Scariff,

- Dave Smith’s Apiary, Inagh

Dates of the above events will also be published on our website www.bannerbeekeepers.com. 

Those who do not pay membership for 2010 will not receive future notification of events. 

Directions to Adult Education Centre – Drive up Clon Road, On the right  (across from Dunnes Stores Carpark is Clonroad Business Park. On entering the Business Park. Keep to the road on the left. It is right next door to Ryan’s Carpets. 

An application by Banner BKA for funding to buy equipment to set up Queenrearing Group has been accepted by Leader. Before we go ahead with the final application, there will be a brief meeting before lecture on March 24th. In order to get members views on the matter. 

The Association has bought apideas in bulk at a price of 17 euro each. Any members interested in buying some of them, please contact me. Those interest must be paid up members. 

It has come to my attention that a couple of members never closed off their open mesh floor in spring of last year. I just want to let any of the less experienced members know that this can seriously affect the brood development throughout Spring. Open Mesh Floors without inserts in Spring  makes it more difficult for the colony to maintain the optimum temperature for the growing amount of brood.

If any members would like to help out in the running of the association in some way, please let me know. Help is always welcome.

A special welcome to all our new members who attended the beginners course.

If any experienced members would like to make themselves available during summer for helping and mentoring beginners in there locality, please let me know.

The majority of these beginners wish to buy a nuc or a hive. If any members are selling nucs this summer or know of anyone selling nucs or hives please contact me.

Is Mise le Meas 

Aoife Nic Giolla Coda, Honorary Secretary

List of Services - FIBKA and Banner BKA  

Banner BKA Extractors (2): available to any paid up member:

Contact Barry O’Loughlin, 065 6828362 or Kieran Byrnes, 086 1520479 

Banner BKA Website: Bannerbeekeepers.com 

An Beachaire Magazine:  €25 /year, the national beekeeping magazine.

Can be paid along with Banner BKA subscription to Treasurer, Antoinette Lyons, 087 2132297

Or Contact  Manager An Beachaire, Mr David Lee, Scart, Kildorrey, Co Cork 022 25595,davidleej@eircom,net 

An Beachaire Magazine: To send in an article, photograph or letter, contact

Editor, Mr Jim Ryan, Innisfail, Kickham Street, Thurles, Co Tipperary0504-22228, jimbee1@eircom.net 

FIBKA Library: Containing over 700 books and journals on beekeeping can be loaned out to any member in any association. Details of books on irishbeekeeping.ie website. Please contact treasurer first to obtain proof of membership for the librarian. Contact Librarian, Mr Jim Ryan, Innisfail, Kickham Street, Thurles, Co Tipperary 0504-22228, jimbee1@eircom.net http://www.irishbeekeeping.ie/library/library.html 

FIBKA Video/DVD Library: Containing a large collection of videos/dvds which can be loaned out to any member in any association. Please contact treasurer first to obtain proof of membership for the librarian.

Contact Video Librarian, Mr Redmond Williams, Tincurry, Cahir, Co. Tipperary. 052 42617  

FIBKA Gormanston Summer Course: A week long event in Gormanston, Co. Meath. includes numerous classes, lectures, practical workshop, national honey show and a chance to meet beekeepers from Ireland and other parts of the world. Contact Course Convenor, Mary & Gerry Ryan,   

Bee Diagnostic Service: Samples of bees analysed for disease. Fee 5 euro.

Send to Pat Maloney, Bee Diagnostic Service, Teagasc, Kinsealy Research Centre, Malahide Road, Dublin 17

FIBKA Website: www.irishbeekeeping.ie, lots of information on all aspects of bees, beekeepin

Feb. 2010

AGM .
February 4^th 2010 8pm, Adult Education Centre, Clonroad Business Park 

Beginners Course (2 day course)
Saturdays 6^th and 13^th March 2010  10am to 4pm
Price:50 euro (this incorporates 1 years membership to Banner BKA) Pay on the day
To Book Contact Aoife Nic Giolla Coda, 087 6743030 or email bannerbees@gmail.com 

FIBKA Beekeeping Seminar

Sunday 14th February 2010 2 p.m. sharp

The O'Brien Suite, Carlton Castletroy Park Hotel, Dublin Road, Limerick
(near the University of Limerick) All are welcome
 

Nov. 09

Lecture: Wednesday, Nov 11th @ 8pm

Subject: Queen rearing

Lecturer: Denis Ryan

Venue: Teagasc, Station Rd, Ennis
 

For New Members

I hope that our new members that acquired bees and attended demonstrations had an enjoyable summer of beekeeping despite the weather. Those who have honey to take off should have their honey taken off by now. Bees should also be fed to prevent starvation over winter. Autumn Varroa treatment should also be considered. The main treatments are Bayvarol for 6 weeks (chemical method), or 2 treatments of Apiguard for 2 weeks each followed up by oxalic acid in December (organic method). For further information on Varroa control and other diseases, log onto www.irishbeekeeping.ie/beehealth   

Also for those members who might think I have incorrect contact details for them please let me know. Our membership has increased to almost 60 and sometimes especially with the more recent members over the summer, it can be difficult to keep track. I use post, email or text and sometimes all three. It is important to keep these details up to date. 

For those who might not be aware of the services that FIBKA and Banner Beekeepers Assoc. offer please find a small list overleaf. Members should make use of them where possible.