PICTURES: LGFA and GAA clubs team up with school to launch Limerick parish's Darkness into Light

KNOCKAINEY joined the list of Darkness into Light walks in Limerick last year and have already launched this year’s event which is set to take place on Saturday,  May 9.

John Macnamara, chairperson of Knockainey Ladies Gaelic Football Club (LGFA), said the event for Pieta to support mental health and prevent suicide is now in its second year.  

“Huge numbers attended last year, which we were very, very appreciative of. This event has been run in conjunction with Knockainey LGFA and GAA. Last year was the first time that we came together to do an event like this and it was brilliant that both organisations joined together,” said John.

Knockainey National School is part of  the winning team as the parish’s Darkness into Light walk was launched by pupils and teachers. Pupils made giant colourful banners in 2025. 

“We were delighted that we launched it at the school. Ourselves in the LGFA and the lads in the GAA, we feel that there's an onus on us to make people aware of the services that Pieta provide,” said Mr Macnamara, who added that there isn't a parish in County Limerick that has not been touched by the tragic loss of individuals.

“It's nice to be able to give something back on that morning when we will be shining a light into people's lives to show them that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

“It is important to show young people, who we deal with in the LGFA and GAA, that there is light at the end of those difficult days. There can be many difficult days there at the moment for young people,” he said.

Mr Macnamara said they always believed that there were a lot  of residents going to other Darkness into Light walks so it was really nice last year to have one in their home parish of Knockainey-Lough Gur. 

“We would like to acknowledge the support that we got from the parishioners on the walking route last year. They put displays on their windows, piers and gates of houses and had candles lighting in window sills.

“Considering this walk starts at 4.15am the LGFA and GAA really appreciates what the parishioners did on that route. I also want to thank all the volunteers that we had at the crossroads and this year is no different. 

“Sylvia Hayes Preschool and Conal Kelly will be doing the breakfasts again for us,” said Mr Macnamara.

All are welcome to take part in Knockainey's second Darkness into Light walk on May 9. Monies raised will help Pieta to provide free, accessible support to people affected by suicide and self-harm. 

Pieta now has over 20 centres nationwide with over 300 staff and offers a variety of supports to people impacted by suicide and self-harm, completely free of charge.

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