Fr Michael Murphy (b. 1925)

Track 1: Fr Michael Murphy grew up on a small farm at Knockmore, Barraduff. He recalls his education, his formation years for the priesthood and his first appointment to a parish in Scotland where he worked with Dingle man Fr Ashe. Track 2: After three years in Scotland, he was appointed to Ballinskelligs and Portmagee before moving to Tralee in 1955 where he remained until 1963. Dean Reidy is recalled and Fr Murphy discusses his responsibilities relating to the CYMS and the renovations to St John’s Church and grounds during his term in Tralee. Track 3: His relocation to Currow is recalled, his work with travellers and his first involvement there with the Tidy Towns Committee. Moving to Sneem, and the winning of the overall accolade for Tidy Towns there in 1987 is discussed. Track 4: Fr Murphy discusses his next appointment to Kenmare, where he remained for fourteen years, during which he helped to put in place a plan for the improvement of the appearance of the town. He reverts to his original term in Killarney during the 1970s, when the town did not look its best, and his efforts to improve the situation at that time. Track 5: Following his term in Kenmare, Fr Murphy was again appointed to Killarney. He recalls his interaction with the Town Clerk and Town Engineer in a bid to bring colour into the streetscapes. He also remarks on his meeting with the brother of Pope John XXIII, and he gives his views on the changes brought about in the Catholic Church by Vatican II.