Kilkenny Observer - Augsust 21, 2020 by kilkennyobserver

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Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Lebanon love

Ali, Muhammad and our Mick for them. They were to make life so easy for us. They were doing their best to make a few Leb pounds to help support little children.

JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

KIND hearted local soldier who has just retired has spoken to The Observer about a fantastic friendship he built up with a poor family while on a peacekeeping mission in war-torn Lebanon. “A young boy called Ali and his teenage friend, Muhammad and their mobile shop, a donkey called daily to our outpost,” Corporal Mick McLoughlin of Callan said. “Very quickly we were all friends. The Lebanese boys who were selling Pepsi Cola, Mars and Twix Bars were so kind to us. They gave us credit when money was scarce. “In turn we looked after them as generously as we could with extra Lebanese pounds to help buy food for their struggling families. “It was a beautiful international camaraderie. The Irish Defence Forces travelled to help keep locals safe, they ended up looking after us and in turn we rewarded their generosity.

WASN’T EASY “It was a perfect relationship of respect and admiration. “Sadly, it had to come to an end. “At the finish of our six-month stint we had to say goodbye. “That wasn’t easy. “To me it was like moving on and having to leave a family member behind,” added Corporal McLoughlin who was a Private at the time. Mick, fondly Smokey as he was an avid supporter of the English rock band Smokey, later to EVERY FRIDAY

SPECIAL AFFINITY “The two of them were smashing, kind and caring and our Irish group quickly became admirers of the Lebanese sales team. “In fairness, it was a two-way street. They helped us, kept us munching and our thirsts quenched and in turn we looked after them. “We had a kind of international agreement that blossomed. “We all thought of Ali and Mumammad when news broke of the recent blast in Lebanon that killed so many people. “Thousands of Irish soldiers

will over the years have developed a special affinity with the Lebanon. “Our hearts went out to those who lost loved ones in the explosion,” said Mick. Army life is in Mick’s blood. His dad William was in the British Army in World War 1 and his son, Ian who followed his footsteps is now in the Defence Forces in Kilkenny, a technician learning his trade in Carlow IT. ORPHANAGE But it is perhaps as a humanitarian that Mick will be best remembered. “I travelled with Chernobyl Aid Ireland as a volunteer for two weeks every year of a seven-year spell. “I enjoyed the work as we

helped to re-build an orphanage and provided medical and other aid. “But it was a real eye-opener. It was very sad, many families lost loved ones and were devastated by a disaster that still brings suffering to so many. “During a time when I worked in London, I got to know many poverty-stricken people in Finsbury Park. “I loved to buy chips for men and women who were so grateful. My wife Caroline used to give out cigarettes. “It was not a major sacrifice for us at the time but what was important was that it brought a little joy into the lives of people who had so little,” Mick added. Army life as a career: See Page 18

Retirement time: Corporal Michael on his final day as a member of the Irish Defence Forces

become Smokie, has just called time after 41 years at Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny City. A friend and colleague described him as a conscientious soldier and a wonderful humanitarian who always tried to help and forever defended the underdog. “He was never a man of war but he was a dedicated peacekeeper and during duties with the Irish Defence Forces in war-torn countries he gave his heart and emptied his pockets as he helped families in need.” EMOTIONAL TIMES That was how fellow son of Callan, Pat Fitzgerald summed up his former army colleague and friend with whom he had served

The Kilkenny

Observer 1 GARDEN ROW, TOP OF WILLIAM STREET, JUST OFF FRIARY STREET.

in the Leb. Mick recalled his overseas stints in The Lebanon and Chad, his series of humanitarian driving trips to help orphans in Chernobyl and being kind to the poor at Finsbury Park, London, close to the old Arsenal Soccer Grounds in Highbury. He was reluctant to speak of his good deeds but he admitted that befriending the poor Lebanese local young boys was one of his very emotional times in an Irish Army uniform. “My first Lebanon mission was with the 50th Battalion in 1981. I was in an outpost when along came Muhammad and his 12 year old pal, Ali selling chocolate and cola. “I developed a great affection

A young Michael McLoughlin, left, with Lebanese friends Ali, centre and Muhammad in 1981 Pics: Pat Fitzgerald

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Turning blind eye is an easy option A cynic’s perception:

New technology that travels at god only knows how many miles an hour will ensure continued ‘progress’ as innocent people scramble in a day to day battle to keep up while often swimming in a choppy sea of social media.

JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

EEL the years back half a century and ask yourselves have we simply gone forward or have we made progress. It is a moot question as we have travelled from being wide open to lockdown by imposing restrictions on ourselves and by allowing others to dictate where we can go and when we make any journey. It is quite understandable that at this time of a pandemic we have rules and regulations to help kill a killer. But it is equally important to ensure that such orders, legislation or otherwise are extinguished, gone from the record books if and when we return to normal life. It is bad enough tying our own hands behind our backs but when we allow others to do it then we may be on a dangerous return journey to the days of slavery and control. Wealthy people love power and self-gratification. Jog your mind back 50 or

Waving goodbye to control by wealthy?

60 years and you will recall front doors, morning, noon and that practically every home in night. Kilkenny City and County was an Few if any, friend or foe, abused open house. the privilege, edging a door that was sometimes ajar, only to ask SECURITY ALERT the woman of the house for a It would not have been a good tumbler of milk or a pinch of time for locksmiths as most sugar. home owners left latch keys in That was mainly in suburbia

while our country cousins, many of whom lived in homes with half doors sometimes doubling as perches for farmyard hens, tended to leave the timber frames wide open even when jumping on a local bus for city shopping. Trust was the name of the game in those days.

Fast forward to the present and only fools and absent minded would dare leave their front doors swinging while rustic dwellers simply couldn’t leave home without locking doors and windows and ensuring that the family watchdog was on security alert.

A BLIND EYE When we talk about the good old days, we sometimes forget to remember that there were testing times too, mass unemployment, struggling families and frugal hospital facilities. Spring forward say quarter of a century and what will any update on life with Mother Ireland remind? The brutal truth is that it will probably be more of the same, huge unemployment (as is astutely forecast), an embarrassing health service, families in distress and with medicos here, there and everywhere still grappling for a cure for cancer. Going forward will continue. But, there will always remain a doubt over progress. God love the lot of us. Maybe that is the route to go? Then again…? You may decide to shut all this out of your mind. That may represent progress. But it is also called turning a blind eye.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Roll out the barrel By Jimmy Rhatigan

NE has to recognize the resilience of our much maligned publicans. The trade has already lost some great traditional family pubs, victims of a Coronavirus lockdown that for pub owners was as welcome as a drunk arriving at closing time. We could debate the enigma, created by ‘learned ones’ on some committee that a pub that serves a burger and chips and a pint can open up and its neighbour that could not provide a ‘substantial’ meal was banjaxed, shutters down. Ambling up Parliament Street it was great to see a selection of barrels, porter, ale, lager and whatever, outside the Pumphouse.

DR WHOEVER The unwritten message from pub boss John Breen had to be that his staff was ready, willing and able to open the doors once one Dr Whoever waved the starter’s flag. The pandemic has to be a horrific time for publicans but lest we forget all others who suffer, let’s remind that a visit by an evil killer was not exactly welcomed by anyone. Pubs in Parliament Street are something else. Tommy

Optimism: Name of the pub game

Hackett’s, Cleere’s and Ó Riada’s represent a great strip in the pub life of our city. A determined pub trade will fight the good fight to stay alive. Hated name Okay, some were struggling before Coronavirus became a hated household name. Hopefully the fact that so many of us missed them when they were under lock and key just may awaken us to the fact that if

pubs were to perish, a huge part of all of us would go with them. In any debate, dig a little deeper than the price of a pint or chaser and focus on some great people who provide a super service. Admittedly, a porter shop may provide sustenance for a family but it also provides a home from home for so many gentle souls who would be locked in their own homes if bars were to vanish.

Questions journalists should now be asking W

HY ARE some quite eminent medicos who not too many months ago gave the thumbs down to face masks now applauding them as the sliced pan or the cart wheel of the modern era? Why are very outspoken GPs like Dr Marcus de Brun being muzzled? A reminder, he was the guy who resigned from The Irish Medical Council after criticising ‘mismanagement’ of the Covid19 outbreak. Are some medical folk and the pharmaceutical industry regular footsie partners or is that a figment of our imaginations? Did anyone notice that some high profile medical people and politicians are vying for high profile status as they engage in a verbal battle while Coronavirus numbers continue to rise in our country?

NO FAVOURS On the latter, we would suggest that former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar is not giving his successor Micheál Martin a look in.

Varadkar cuts a more confident figure as he gives his view but his obvious arrogance does him no favours. Meanwhile new Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly who took some time to decide where he would park his backside in the Dáil, is also trying desperately with what he may regard as good throwaway lines. Covid-19 will be with us for two years, he predicted. And, with all his medical experience (ahem), he should know. Incidentally, Mr Donnelly who started as an Independent then moved to the Social Democrats and is now in Fianna Fáil said of his present party in 2014: A party with a culture of jobs for the boys, bonuses for the boys, lack of accountability and two fingers to the Dáil. THE MIND BOGGLES. Why would so many Ministers and TDs in the Greens, Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael vote down a motion to give a decent minimum wage to hard working men and women, many of whom are starring during the

pandemic.

RISK THEIR LIVES We think in particular of bin men, shop workers, cleaners and many others who, like our frontline hospital staff and GP staff, continue to risk their lives for the greater good. Finally, we have a real conundrum. President Michael D Higgins has a habit of praising ordinary working people and often suggests that we should look after them well. THAT’S NICE. He then goes and signs an Eviction Bill into law that will see struggling families, men, women and children turfed out of their homes. That’s wicked. On the bill, Michael D just might offer as an excuse the fact that politicians from the three government parties queued up, or were party-whipped together like sheep to vote-in the bill. Strange old country we live in. It is riddled with hypocrisy. Mother Ireland has to be worried.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Boy soldier: Youngest casualty of WW1 By Jimmy Rhatigan Army saying that he was 18, the legal minimum age for military SON of Kilkenny who lied service, when he was 14 only. He enlisted at a time of dire about his age so that he could fight in World War poverty in our country and plan 1 is to be honoured by his own was to support his loving family in his native town shortly. Courageously, the son of EdThomas Joseph Woodgate, a pupil of the Christian Brothers in ward and Hanora Woodgate of Callan signed up for the British Mill Street, Callan was to see ac-

Edward ‘Teddy’ Woodgate at the military grave of his son in Grangegorman Cemetery

tion in a brutal war but, sadly, he drowned with some 501 other servicemen and women, passengers and crew when his Royal Merchant Ship, Leinster was sunk by a German Submarine on October 10, 1918. A memorial unveiling ceremony for Thomas Joseph, officially the youngest casualty of WW1 will be held almost to the date of his death, Sunday, October 11. Venue is the Market Yard entrance beside Kilkenny Courthouse in the heart of Kilkenny City. The event is being organised by the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee, led by Donal Croghan and will remember too all the youth of Ireland who left to take part in conflicts around the world. If all of the present Covid-19 restrictions are still in place the occasion will be restricted to 200 people only. The ship Leinster was bombed off the Kish Lighthouse, a mere month before the end of WW1. Plan was that the engraving on young Woodgate’s headstone was to be changed to show that he was killed at the age of 14 and not 18 that was etched on his tombstone when he was buried over a century ago at Grangorman Military Cemetery, Dublin.

Thomas Joseph Woodgate, a mere 14 years old when he was killed in war

Friary Court Dental and Facial Clinic upgrade F RIARY COURT Dental practice now Friary Court Dental and Facial Clinic has been practising dentistry in Kilkenny since 1980. It was originally on High Street and then moved to its current custom built location on Friary Street in 1985. Yvonne Finlay and Josephine Leahy have treated patients at the practice collectively for over 20 years. Yvonne will continue to provide quality caring dentistry to all patients, adult and child, and has a more recent interest in facial aesthetics, ie Anti-Wrinkle. Josephine will continue applying her lifelong professional skills treating children and any nervous patients. Kilkenny native Eoin Gough recently joined the team having previously practised in Cork post qualification. Eoin hopes to expand and grow his patient list under the experienced guidance of Yvonne and Josephine. Eoin’s particular areas of interest are making nervous patients feel comfortable and at ease throughout their dental visit as well as having an avid interest in the aesthetic side of dentistry, ie helping to restore patients’ confidence in their teeth and smile.

from Australia after performing similar roles in dental practices there.

The team at Friary Court Dental and Facial

Laura is a very welcome Eoin enjoys sport as a keen hurler for local club Dicksboro. addition to the team as she is providing the first of planned new treatment offerings for EXCITING ADDITION A further exciting addition to the patients of Kilkenny and clinical team is Laura Beschiu, surrounds. There is a fantastic special Specialist Orthodontist. Laura has been practising introductory offer for anyone in orthodontic orthodontics since 2008. interested Please see Her first clinic starts on treatments. accompanying advertisement. September 23.

Please call to make an appointment on 056-77-65613. Each of the clinicians is ably supported by a nurse receptionist and hygienist team. Receptionist, Margaret Ann has been politely welcoming patients to the practice for 30 plus years, greeting almost all on a first name basis. Linda Beale a senior nurse

now has 20 years’ experience assisting practice patients. Most of the nursing team have over 10 years’ experience assisting both clinicians and patients. A recent new appointment is another native of Kilkenny. Shaunagh Walshe is Practice Business Manager and nurse. Shaunagh has returned home

STATE OF THE ART In the recent practice downtime during the Covid Lockdown, a number of upgrades and improvements have been put in place. There is a complete upgrade to digital x-rays throughout to include a modern state of the art Orthopantomogram (OPG). There is also upgrade to the decontamination room with installation of modern equipment, more important than ever due to Covid risk. Surgery room upgrade includes a new hygiene and teeth whitening suite. There are extensive new IT and computer upgrades throughout. New website design and launch on the way…Watch Social Media for updates. Hopefully all patients will like the new look and appearance with a complete paint makeover inside and out. All of the above however is only the beginning. There are a number of further planned changes earmarked and in the pipeline for the practice. It is intended to keep you all updated on these new developments.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Bookworm Barra aged 4

Music is a child’s food of love

Bright as a button JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

RIGHT and bushy tailed and magnificently inquisitive, four years old Barra Holden is, with respect, a devoted bookworm. Since he was knee-high to a grasshopper, Barra, an focal Gaeilge for Barry, he has loved words, chatting and reading. And in fairness, he has great taste in literature. His dad, John Holden, told our city and county’s only locally owned newspaper that Barra loves reading The Kilkenny Observer. The boy also delights in Wildlife and Mr Men Books. He is quite adept at the English Language and has lots of French too. Baby brother Donnacha, 18 months, is hot on Barra’s reading trail. His favourites are Dear Zoo, Oh Dear! and Pip and Posy. The clever little brothers prefer

reading to watching television although they do enjoy the odd cartoon on telly. HAPPY HOLDENS Dad Johnny, a native of Waterford, along with Kilkenny man, Paul McCabe is fear an tí at Cleere’s Bar and Restaurant, Parliament Street. The quartet that is the happy Holden family now lives in Aughamucky. Barra arrived home from holidays in Kilmore Quay last weekend and is looking forward to returning to class at Ballyfoyle Playschool which his dad describes as a brilliant seat of learning and fun. “The children spend most of their school days in the great outdoors, hail, rain or snow, which is absolutely marvellous,” said John. “The only time the children return indoors is in a case of windy weather, a health and safety precaution.” The smashing young brothers already have some delightful chapters in their Barra Holden reads his favourite newspaper: The Kilkenny little lives. Observer

USIC Generation Kilkenny in close partnership with Kilkenny County Council Library Service presents a series of early years music videos (age 3-5) online throughout this month The videos are streamed on Kilkenny County Council’s Youtube channel (kilkennycoco) Tuesdays and Fridays at 7pm, and are also be available on Kilkenny Library’s social media platforms. Musical content and programming is by Karen McMahon, an Early Years Specialist with Music Generation Kilkenny, who has a wealth of knowledge and experience working with children, as well as in primary schools, autism units and special needs settings. Karen gives every child a voice in her music room. She loves her work and her passion shines through in her fun, engaging, energetic and candid approach to teaching children. “The power of music on a child’s mind is quite phenomenal, even at the pre-

verbal stage,” Karen told The Kilkenny Observer. FUN AND RELAXATION “Using music as a medium to stimulate early childhood development (language acquisition, motor skills, social skills, cognitive development and emotional development) can really engage the young child, assisting his or her learning and development whilst having fun in a relaxed environment” The Music Generation super Kilkenny Development Officer, Sinéad Blanchfield said she was delighted to partner with the library on this project. “Music has such an important role to play in the life of every child and young person. The music videos produced by Karen are a pivotal starting point for young children in Kilkenny.” “We are delighted to partner with Music Generation to bring the love and enjoyment of music to children across Kilkenny,” said Executive Librarian, Aisling Kelly.

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Home Rule Club has backbone and bottle By Jimmy Rhatigan CORONAVIRUS HAD STRUCK. The order was a tough one but while the best made T WOULD be fair to say that that our local Home plans of mice and men can go awry, the men and Rule Club has a strong backbone and lots of bot- women of the Home Rule Club are made of tough, ambitious stuff. tle. While there was a spanner thrown into the works, Founded in 1894, the last surviving Home Rule Club in our country has battled through two world the latter served only as a spur to buck any downwars, years of austerity and not too long ago it was ward trend and continue with positive infrastructural projects. backs to the wall as the club fought for its life. Work continued behind closed doors and the Not surprisingly, it survived and along with hundreds, maybe thousands of others in many facets of result is that a beer garden has been extended and serving our people it now takes on the pandemic decorated and is now regarded as one of finest and safest, with regard to safe distancing, in the South that is Coronavirus. Corona is perhaps the club’s most vicious threat East. ever. But with warriors who wear their hearts on their BIG POSITIVE sleeves as they fly the Home Rule flag with pride, The layout has been altered giving an improved the notion is that the club will continue its great re- flow of people through the magnificent architectural edifice that is the club that sits on the banks of lationship with our city and surrounds. Considering its excellent record and nous for the River Nore at John’s Quay. A further boost is that there is WiFi on all floors. shrewd planning and development projects, it The big positive is that as soon as government should also progress and blossom thanks to a strong club committee and committed member- guidelines permit the main bar will be immediately opened. ship. In the meantime, the club, run by volunteers, is playing host to intimate gatherings of friends, family SPANNER IN WORKS Last year was massive for the club as it marked its and workmates. The beer garden has its own private bar and a 125th anniversary with a festival and a series of hissimple, tasty meal can be served in safe surrounds. torical talks. Any member of club will fill in Kilkenny There were many plans to build on the club’s sucObserver readers on the finer points or you may cess. Then on March 15 this year came the blow that prefer to speak directly to the manager on 056the Home Rule along with sister bodies in the pub, 7811048. Positivity abounds as the club boasts a entertainment and social spheres had to close healthy concoction of backbone and bottle in its temporarily on health and safety advice from ranks. Section of the Home Rule club’s magnificent garden government.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

WRITE ON RHATIGAN

Murph: ‘He was a pain in the backside’ JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

RS Murphy, popularly Murph is confused. There was a time when, she confessed that she believed everything that came out of the mouth of a politician. “Those days are long gone,” she said. “Perhaps it was reading Jimmy Rhatigan’s columns many moons ago that led me not to believe a single word they utter. “If a politician told me that it was raining, I would have to go out to find out if he or she was telling the truth. “ I’m not just going by what Jimmy said and continues to say. “I was once promised a new back window by a local councillor. “He didn’t deliver. “When the window was Mrs Murphy broken we patched it but time came when it was impossible I thought would look after me. to see out and there was no Innocence was bliss. light coming in. “It is only when I meet you Murph that I think of the INNOCENCE window, he would say. “I went cap in hand to a man “Two years later he was still

singing the same tune. Was it that he didn’t want to get me a window or he wasn’t able to oblige, I asked myself. “We bought our own glass and my son-in-law Alphonsus, did the rest. “I was glad that the episode ended that way as I was beholden to no one. “The man had done me a favour. He gave me a flavour of what politics was like and I took heed. “Since that time, I haven’t darkened the door of any politician so not one of them gets the opportunity to refuse or disappoint me.” CONTRARY When I started to read Jimmy Rhatigan’s columns I pictured him as a contrary so and so. “I had to admit I was wrong and I apologised when I met him in Bollard’s Bar, St Kieran’s Street having lunch with his fellow journalist and friend Seán Hurley. “Me and His Nibs had dropped in for soup and sandwiches. “Don’t be silly,” he told me. “You are fully entitled to your opinion. “That was in the ‘Seventies I would guess, when he asked me to write a column for the

Kilkenny People where he worked. “To be more accurate he asked me to talk my words and he would write them down. “He told me he would be my ghost writer. I was flattered and delighted even if I didn’t know what a ghost writer was. TELL THE TRUTH “We had had some great fun and ruffled many feathers and unlike our friends in politics we always told and still tell the truth. “We were together in the ‘People, then I moved with him to The Kilkenny Voice. “I didn’t team up with him when he was editor of The Reporter but it’s great to be back with him in The Kilkenny Observer. “His Nibs loves to read my column and, to be honest, I get a kick out of it too. “Freedom of speech is wonderful and I am happy to be playing my part. “As for the chancer who promised me the window, all I can say is that he proved to be a pane in the arse, or backside, whichever is most appropriate in a family newspaper.” “Till next week, God bless.” Love, Murph.

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‘Hypocrisy is alive and well at Indo’

Tipp farmer bags Kilkenny cash

ill RYAN was surprised and delighted to be the winner of €1000. A dairy and beef farmer, Bill had purchased an Advantage Feeder from Dairy Direct, Kilmanagh, Kilkenny to help cut labour costs and increase production on his farm in Tipperary.

He was unaware of the automatic entry for the €1,000 prize draw. He was thrilled not only with the winnings but now that the feeder saves him so much daily labour, he looks forward to having the time to spend it. Dairy Direct & Advantage

Feeders Ireland, thanked all who entered and remind that they have another draw running. There is a chance to win €1,000 Cash Back on any feeder purchased until the end of August. Find out more by calling 1800 817 462.

Letter to the Observer Editor,

ypocrisy is alive and well at Independent Newspapers. They printed page after page praising the late John Hume, one of the greatest Irishmen of all time. And yet, for years the Independent Sunday the (mainly Group Independent) printed numerous really awful, sometimes biased, and quite unjustifiable articles castigating the great John Hume whose only objective was to bring peace to Ireland. I say shame on Independent Newspapers. To make matters worse those so-called journalists, who are not fit to lace the great man’s boots are not alone a disgrace to themselves, but their newspaper as well. Ah yes, hypocrisy is alive and well at Independent Newspapers. Yours etc, Liam Burke, Dunmore, Co Kilkenny Kathryn Kenneally, Director, Dairy Direct presenting winner of the Advantage Feeders €1000 Cash Back cheque to Bill Ryan and his daughter Marette from Suirhouse, Roscrea

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At the Callan WW1 Memorial which bears the name of his dad, is Michael McLoughlin, third from left, with fellow Callan service men, Privates Dean Shea and Tony Delaney, Lieutenant Jason Nugent, Private Ian McLoughlin, Corporal Mark Laffin and Private Lee Delaney Pics: Pat Fitzgerald

Army career: Shot down by uncertainty JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

OLDIERING has become a way of life for a local family. A proud father was followed into uniform by his son and a grandson is now continuing the tradition. Yet retiring Corporal Mick McLoughlin is reluctant to recommend a Defence Forces career for young men and girls. “Like all jobs, we had some great times and some bad times,” he told The Kilkenny Observer. “My late dad fought in WW1, my son is now a proud member of our Defence Forces but my concern is that there is now too much uncertainty about an army career. “I would recommend it as a way of life. It is a good career but not a rewarding one. I would have to caution that an army career could be ended at any time. “What I am saying is that there is no real security nowadays, wages are simply not good enough and the prospects of a young soldier being accepted for a mortgage are remote.

NO QUEUES “Soldiers have been battling for years for better pay and conditions but nothing positive has happened. “I would love to be able to say otherwise but the reality, I believe, is that unless things change one of the most respected peacekeeping armies in the world will always struggle. “It is now up to our Minister for Defence, Simon Coveney to step up to the plate, otherwise there will be no queues to sign up.” Mick is son of Margaret Campion, Thomastown and William McLoughlin, Inchicore. His family includes his brothers Tony and Willie and the late John; sisters Kathleen, Margo, Biddy and Mary. His dad died in 1965 and mother passed away in 1975. His early schooling was at CBS, Callan where he left at age 14 to work in construction. He joined the Naval Service in 1980 along with Kilkenny City lads Bullet Kelly and Ger Smyth. His home town navy colleagues were the Gunner Roche and Ignatius Kelly. He spent 14 months in Cobh, County Cork and was then

transferred to the 30th Infantry Battalion, Kilkenny. SIDE EFFECTS He also served with the 9th Battalion, the 33rd Battalion, the Brigade Training Centre, Cork and the Reserve Defence Force Cadre Staff in Brigade HQ, Cork. His final post was in Ordinance in Cork. Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny was his base right through his career. Mick married Caroline Costigan , Grovine and the couple have a daughter Amy and son Ian. His overseas service included two tours of the Lebanon and Chad. He is happy that he never took the controversial drug Lariam which was supposed to prevent and treat malaria but with a warning that it could have side effects in some patients. “I read up on Lariam and decided that it was too dodgy. However, I bought my own medications and when I ran out of supply I got a free dosage from fellow soldiers in the Norwegian Army who were stationed with us but did not use Lariam.” Corporal McLoughlin with his wife, Caroline Costigan, a Grovine woman and son, Army Private Ian

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Fan-tastic: Hurling’s ladder to Everest JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

LIMBING to the top of any sporting league ladder has taken on a whole new meaning since the arrival of a savage spoilsport called Coronavirus. In this crazy time of restricted spectator numbers, popular photographer Donal Foley was on the ball when it came to shooting the action on the pitch. His eagle eye also focused on enthusiastic local supporters who climbed a different kind of league ladders and had perhaps the best vantage point at the urban/rural clash of James Stephens and Tullaroan. Enjoying the cracking hurling in the St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Group ‘A’ game was local fitness guru, Army Sergeant at Stephens Barracks Kilkenny, Brian Kelly of BK Fitness, with his daughter Caoimhe and Callan United soccer volunteer of many years, Dick Dunne. Whatever about the atmosphere or the quality of play on the billiard table-like surface,

there was no shortage of ingenuity spectator numbers. At any time a match can outside John Locke Park, Callan. be postponed if a player, administrator or match official is BOB’S YOUR UNCLE It was a case of three fans, two hit by Covid-19. Because crowds are confined ladders and Bob’s your uncle as the happy trinity enjoyed to 200, including players and team a sporting spectacular from a management, there is a mere ripple of applause as opposed to distance. On the peripherals there a thunderous cheer when a player were loads of clever and tonnes weaves a magic wand, otherwise of initiative as friendly natives a hurley stick. Those looking in on streaming, without coveted tickets played ball, observed rules and enjoyed a listening to radio commentaries or swapping info on social rip roaring game. The enthusiasts who scaled the media all go to make up a surreal heights and peered over the walls phenomenon that no one had of the ground that is called after foreseen. But, as in a case after most Fenian activist John Locke, born in Callan in 1847, deserve full new laws are passed, someone marks, 10 out of 10, for brilliance somewhere will find a loophole, not within years, months or and boldness. Sporting life is obviously alive weeks, but in a matter of seconds. and kicking in the home town of Edmund Ignatius Rice, founder of EXCELLENT JOB The latter honour fell to a the Irish Christian Brothers. True love and a pinch of nous trinity of three wise supporters, can go a long way, hopefully far including Locke Park neighbour enough to help banish the Corona Dick Dunne who for years gave unselfishly of himself and his invader that is wreaking havoc. skills as a voluntary groundsman at Callan United Soccer Club. CONE OF SILENCE As he does an excellent job of Sport in battling under a cloud of uncertainty as it is controlled training sportsmen and women, by a Maxwell Smart-type Cone Brian Kelly was well prepared. He had a half time cuppa at the of Silence due to enforced small

Irish Army Sergeant and fitness guru Brian Kelly of BK Fitness, Callan takes hurling to new heights

Everest that is the perimeter wall of his local GAA club. It was a view that is usually strictly for the birds. YES, A BIRD’S EYE VIEW. The ladder crew is, from left,

Brian Kelly, his daughter Caoimhe and Dick Dunne. In the game, Stephens toppled Tullaroan by 22-18, an endgame score-line that is more akin to a rugby final score than to a GAA

Wall together: From left, Brian Kelly, his daughter Caoimhe and Dick Dunne of Edmund Rice Park, a next door neighbour of John Locke Park, Callan Pics: Donal Foley

result. The latter is not a criticism but a thumbs-up to defences. But it could also be a pinch in the backside for forwards who failed to achieve their goal.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

News – KEEPING IT LOCAL

Observations

with Jimmy Rhatigan

Killer monster could lead us to love I

F IT weren’t such a cruel killing machine, the invisible scourge that is Coronavirus could at the end of its days leave us with a noble legacy. Sadly, any good that it could cajole us into will never win any respectability prize for a virus that has stolen so many loved ones from all classes and creeds, people of many skin colours and god only knows how many religions on a global family tree that continues to be shrouded in grief. Whether or not the destroyer is man-made or a force of nature matters little to those who have and continue to be devastated as an altar of bereavement, a humble funeral, is stolen by pandemic rules. The human being, a frail and oft indecisive creature will continue to debate the latter. Most may be convinced that the virus is an evil concoction that may have accidentally escaped to terrorise an unsuspecting world. Others may believe that it is yet another member of a collection of killers that came, were sent or whatever to poison, slaughter, ways of aiding and abetting the Grim Reaper matter little. The fragility and fallibility of mankind, womankind too, even at a time when the very future of our world could be uncertain, once more highlights The Grim Reaper stalks with killer Corona how vulnerable we are when confronted by a cunning and of apathetic or easily influenced opportunity to repair our demon-like enemy. worldwide communities, to beings. The latter may have believed rebuild a fractured society TONGUE IN CHEEK that a billionaire with cravings for that dripped of wealth and Speaking perhaps with tongue power and control was of greater wanton destruction that saw the in cheek, yet without malice and value to a decent and fair society unscrupulous plunder riches. insincerity, it is worth noting than a caring nurse or doctor, a But, post pandemic, will we act that even the bad times, horrific bin man, cleaner or gravedigger. with wisdom and decency, admit spells, can in a weird way espouse Hopefully the bubble has that we have worshipped false goodness. burst, or rather has been pricked gods, played with hate and greed It is sad, crazy even, that it takes by those who finally saw the where love and care would have a catastrophe to waken us from light through the darkness of moved volcanos of destruction our slumbers as we sleepwalk a monster that would rival the and given our people real peace perhaps to Hell with little ruthlessness of murdering of mind and happiness in a world possibility of any return ticket. of make love not war? warlords. We have learned, or at least We have surely learned also The latter have and would should have copped on that unleash nuclear power to fuel that that governance in our for generations we were all their evil crusades that could one country desperately needs a worshipping at the wrong altars, day see as few as half a dozen makeover. pulpits of power that we now tyrants control us all. Our party political system know to be shambolic. is tribal, self-serving, flawed, Hopefully we should now be Ultimate price insincere, unfair and corrupt. au fait with those we may have In contrast to men and women of The latter are dubious traits come to realise are the real pillars wicked ways, nurses, doctors and that have been the filthy fulcrum of Mother Earth. other frontline warriors, including of so many governments that for For far too long we have those in the Corona wards at our over 100 years have failed those worshipped false gods as own St Luke’s General Hospital, we call real people, oft struggling men and women hogged the paid the ultimate price as they families whose needs are simple, headlines on the world stage, fought to keep us alive. fair play, a caring health service, peddling their public relations We have new heroes. enough money to feed, clothe through fake news that wormed But will we appreciate them? and educate children. its way into the hearts of millions We have been given a great

DYING ON STREETS Instead we have had to accept homelessness, people dying on our streets, banks and vulture funds dumping families from their homes, a two-tier way of life where our wealthy are featherbedded. We watched in horror but did little to comfort innocent victims of a Cervical Cancer Scandal that rocked the women of Ireland in a sea of insincerity and false promises from hard neck politicians. The latter may light candles and offer a round of applause for brave health workers but, inevitably, will then turn their backs instead of rewarding or at least properly acknowledging sacrifices that not all of us might be prepared to make. Is there even a smidgen of justice in the huge gap that exists between a nurse’s oft menial remuneration and the excess wages plus expenses of a politician? The world and its mammy are well aware who is getting the raw deal and who is bequeathed the

fatted calf – every day. Common sense changes and tweaking of insincerities could be tilted so that all of our children are treated equally. Inside everybody is a soul of love and charity that would dearly delight in being part of one big happy and united family, black or white, Islamic or Christian. TRAPPED IN BODIES Sadly, there are those trapped in the bodies of so many beasts that crave power and wealth at any cost. Wouldn’t it be great if the sacrifices of the pandemic could tilt the scales of life so that each of us can enjoy happiness and peace in a world where nobody shoots anyone and it never even dawns on anybody to slip an ace of hearts up his or her sleeve in a card game of twenty fives. We can dream about a new world. We can do our utmost to control the angst when we may find that the pace of any renaissance of love and kindness

may travel at tortoise-like pace. From a world that is gripped by fear, wouldn’t it be great to ease towards a Planet Earth where happiness and good health are the common denominators. That would be a world where power is something only that is provided by electricity and your wealth is judged by unselfish giving of yourself in contrast to a woeful culture where much wanted more. If Fine Gael were to practise a little bit of humility and work on their attitude to good decent people as opposed to the wealthy who sadly, are also the power brokers and Fianna Fáil were to consider a return to looking after those they once preached that they cherished, the aforementioned decent people, then we could be on the right road. Can we trust Mr Varadkar and Mr Martin to help turn the tide? At this juncture, one could not be optimistic that either would seek to deliver normality. But, hope springs eternal.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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So brave: New business brings 15 jobs A

BRAVE local business man is bucking the trend by opening a new store as our country grapples with a pandemic. Fifteen jobs have been created as Ronan Brett and staff of Brett’s Hardware Store, Mullinahone are expanding and opening a new complex at Mill Street, Callan today, Friday at 11am. It is a fantastic vote of confidence in rural Kilkenny as a two-acre site Mr Brett purchased has been vacant for several years now houses a magnificent nine departments including a garden store and restaurant. With the arrival of Covid-19 Man of courage: Ronan Brett the opening of the 16,000 square feet store was postponed from the best of Tipperary business March to this month. with the pride of Kilkenny. The entire site has been tasteTRUSTED AND RESPECTED fully landscaped and there is lots Manager, Noel Burke has been of parking. overseeing the development for For Mr Brett it is a case of the last year. hands across the border as the However the landmark venture combines the best of decision to expand a trusted and black and amber and blue and respected business at this time is gold and certainly deserves to get Mill Street Complex opens today a courageous move that marries off to a winning start.

Highbanks courts 150,000 readers

POPULAR US baking magazine, Bake from Scratch has dedicated its entire July/August issue to Ireland’s culinary scene. The bumper Authentic Ireland edition features delicious recipes and interviews with local food producers, as well as some of our top foodie experiences including Highbank Orchards, Cuffesgrange.

Bake from Scratch has a print circulation of 150,000 and a digital monthly reach of around 30 million readers. TEAM OF EDITORS Earlier this year, Tourism Ireland in the United States partnered with premier kitchen and home furnishings retailer Williams Sonoma and Bake from Scratch magazine. As part of the collaboration,

a team of editors from Bake from Scratch and Williams Sonoma – together with a videographer, photographer and five food and lifestyle bloggers – visited in January to capture content for the Authentic Ireland edition. The resulting July/August magazine features mouthwatering photography throughout and a great article profiling Highbank Orchards.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Fighting Irish are cheated of medals Quinlan left Katangese leader, Roger Faulques with some 1,000 fit men only. Military planning was brilEDITOR liant, described as a wonderful tactical exercise that is acknowlRAVE Irish Soldiers who edged by militaries around the were to be honoured for world as an example of how to their part in a horrific defend a built-up area. battle in 1961 have still not been acknowledged for their bravery and fighting skills. Some 150 men who went to the Congo as United Nations peacekeepers were attacked by between 3,000 and 5,000 Katangese Troops, supported by Foreign Mercenaries. The Irish were and still are recognised as the being among the best peacekeeping armies in the world. But as they protected locals Roger Faulques: Lost from invaders, members of A hundreds of men Company 35th Infantry Battalion from the Western Com- RISKED LIVES mand put their bodies on the The peace-loving Irish did line and fought to the bitter themselves, their families and end, surrendering only when country proud, letting nobody they ran out of ammunition and down as they risked their lives to save others. water. But, surprise, surprise, the The small band of Irish, led by Kerryman, Commandant Pat men were let down with a bang JIMMY RHATIGAN

Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny wants the eight stalwarts to get their deserved reward before the mighty men are called to their eternal reward. But, to now, campaigners have been knocking on a door that may never open. Apart from being fewer in numbers to their attackers, the Irish were badly armed with Vickers Machine Guns from World War 1 and Bren Guns from WW2. They had some then modern Belgian FN rifles. Sadly, none of the medals were ever awarded. The awards would have very little monetary value but would mean the world to the eight survivors in particular and to the loved ones of many others who did their turn for country. Sadly, politicians and civil servants and politicians continue to turn away as justice must be seen to be done. The estimate is that the 32 medals would cost about €20 each. This would cost taxpayers a paltry €640 to say thank you to of all the men for risking their lives.

by the Department of Defence and many Irish Governments. Five were recommended by Commandant Quinlan for the Irish Army’s Highest Awards, the Military Medal for Gallantry. Twenty seven were recommended for the Distinguished Conduct Medal. Fifty nine years later, not a single soldier has got proper recognition for bravery in The Congo’s Siege of Jadotville. The world class defensive display of military acumen was highlighted by Hollywood in a war spectacular. Today, there are eight veteran soldiers still alive from that famous attack as Katanga attempted to split from the Congo. The Irish held out for five days, killing at least 300 Katangese Troops, including 30 Foreign Mercenaries, Germans, French and Belgians. Today, retired Irish soldiers continue to fight for those who went before them and a handful who are still with us. DESERVED REWARD Brian Farrell, formerly

Superb leader: Commandant Michael Quinlan

Contrast that with the sneaky attempts recently to give government ministers a €16,000 hike on top of an already inflated salary and ridiculous expenses.

There is something very rotten in the State of Denmark. And the stench from Irish Government buildings is one that wreaks shame on our country.

Piltown on the road to safety

ILKENNY County Council has welcomed the decision of An Bord Pleanála to approve the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the N24 Tower Road Junction Improvement Scheme at Piltown, County Kilkenny. The need for this road improvement project has been previously identified as an objective in the Kilkenny County Council Development Plan 2014 -2020. The proposed works include for widening of the existing 2+1 carriageway to a 2 + 2 carriageway for 1.8km, a compact grade separated junction at the Tower Road Junction and a new link road to join

with the Ink Bottle junction. “This decision by is very much welcomed by the people of Piltown,its wider catchment area and users of the N24. Getting to this stage has involved a collaborative effort by Kilkenny County Council, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the appointed consultants Atkins and landowners in the vicinity of the proposed scheme. The scheme can now progress through formal confirmation of the CPO, detailed design, contract document preparation, contractor procurement and ultimately commencing construction in 2021.

South East students get more college choices S

Spot the Ball

Our excellent picture from the weekend’s Mullinavat v Graigue Ballycallan game would have been ideal for the Spot the ball competitions of another time. Where is the sliotar?

TUDENTS looking for third level options in the South East will have more opportunities and choices than ever following significant investment for both Carlow Institute of Technology and Waterford Institute of Technology. Carlow Institute of Technology is to get a 6,100 square metre Science Building. The investment will provide additional space for STEM provision, in particular health science. The building will include provision for labs, lab support and specialist health science spaces. At Waterford Institute of Technology, investment provides for a 12,800 square metre Engineering, Computing and General Teaching Building. This project consists of the

construction of a new building at WIT’s Cork Road Campus. It will provide for the consolidation of a number of faculties in one space and generate efficiencies, Deputy John Phelan told The Kilkenny Observer.

eastern and southern regions and midlands. “We need to offer school leavers better options within the region if we are to retain them and attract further investment into the region. “This investment in the South BETTER OPTIONS East is a key milestone in a very “The tender for the first bundle ambitious programme of investwill proceed immediately and ment in higher education,” Depwill include six projects in the uty Phelan added.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Rest easy Hannah and Seán Revive Active: Super T supplement for kids

HOSE involved with voluntary groups will be aware of the time and effort that goes into a project. The fact that you are doing it out of a sense of love is the key. Many organisations communities, benefit from volunteerism. Whether charity, sports or the arts, the bottom line is, if you haven’t got commitment, you may as well throw your hat at it. In the close-knit, yet widespread local theatrical world, Hannah Davin was one such volunteer. From the days at the Friary Hall, whether musical or drama, Hannah was there to help. Husband Seán was either performing on stage, or, as the years rolled on, he was front of house. Hours before the red curtain was parted, Hannah was setting out her stall for interval coffees, teas and biscuits. UNDER SCRUTINY Hannah worked without fuss. She was as pleasant as the day was long. We are happy we speak for hundreds of adults and children who loved to see Hannah at the interval for a cuppa and USA Assorted. Hannah kept tabs on who took what and how many. The weekly budget was important. Your allocation to please your sweet tooth was under scrutiny.

CLAIR WHITTY Nutritional Health Coach

super supplement range helps to keep your children healthy so they hopefully miss fewer school days. IT IS JUST WHAT YOU NEED.

Rest easy Hannah and Seán

OLD IRISH PROVERB The old Irish proverb on hospitality comes to mind: Is leath den fhéile fáilte chaoin (Half of hospitality is a warm welcome). Hannah had the latter in buckets. Wherever Hannah was, Seán wasn’t far behind. God how many times he carried that Burco boiler, eight kettles, four tea pots and 43 cups to the Friary Hall. When the Watergate was opened in ‘93, Hannah and Seán and The Friary Hall crew signed up as volunteers. They looked after front of house, stage management and selling raffle tickets. They gave the Watergate a sense of structure and stability. Hanna’s contribution to the

arts was acknowledged in 2008 when she was awarded the AIMS Mary Kelly Unsung Hero Award. People will put the success of the Watergate down to many things, but for many, the driving force was the voluntary crew. The latter gave the venue a sense of the baton being passed on to the next generation. They gave it their blessings. There are a few only of the old brigade left. But they have left a memory that cannot be bought. A memory of the right way to do things; punctuality; loyalty and love of what you are doing. To Hannah and Seán, and all the crew, Míle Buiochas. Ger Cody. Ger Cody, Lake Productions

T’S BACK to school soon, or is it? What a strange time it is for parents and students alike as you wait to find out when school will begin and of course, what it will look like when it does. There are many unknowns that remain at this point. Some of you I am sure will feel nervous letting your children back into the classroom for fear of picking up infections. In addition to making sure your children have a good balanced diet, now would be a good time to consider a super supplement to support their immune system, cognitive function, and energy levels. I wouldn’t wait until they’re back at school, I would start now, even for a month or two. Take a look at one of my favourite supplements.

This is a brilliant all-round supplement with ingredients carefully selected to contribute to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue, with nutrients to support normal function of the heart, and normal maintenance of bone health. CAREFULLY SELECTED Importantly, it supports the Revive Active Junior/Teen. For- normal function of the immune mulated by the manufacturers system. It also contributes to of the popular Revive Active normal mental performance

and normal cognitive function, helping your child to concentrate on the task at hand. It’s a great choice for the child who is active after school. Both contain quite a list of Ingredients including Wellmune® Beta Glucans, Vitamins A, B, D, K, and Iron, Zinc, and Magnesium. ON THEIR TOES That is as well as prebiotics and probiotics designed for healthy digestive systems. It combines well with Omega 3 oil fish oil supplements for additional benefits. Revive Active Junior is suitable for ages 5-12. Revive Active Teen is suitable for age 13-18. You simply add the sachet to water, juice, cereal, or yoghurts, no more arguing over the size of a tablet! I love the fact that you only need to give them on school days, you can take the weekend off. For students heading off to college take a look at Revive Zest, it’s a great one to keep them on their toes. Call in to see us at our store at Market Cross Shopping Centre or contact us at 056-7764538 or info@naturalhealthstore.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Kind support for St Vincent de Paul CHUBBY BRENNAN’S CASTLECOMER

HE PARISH of Castlecomer Conference of the Society of St Vincent de Paul has thanked the people of the parish for their generous support at all times. In present circumstances the society is unable to hold the usual monthly collections. As an alternative way of supporting its work, if you wish you can contribute through the Bank and Credit Union Accounts. St Vincent de Paul Society, Castlecomer Bank of Ireland IBAN IE04 BOFI 9059 8530 2292 44 Castlecomer Credit Union Ltd. IBAN IE24CSEN99212410056956 REF 4995

ence of a play-based, child-led curriculum; Good communication and inter-personal skills. Successful candidate will be subject to Garda Vetting Please forward CV and letter of application to Deenside Early Years, Castlecomer Community Hall, Kilkenny Street; 056-4400947, 087-7961716 Email: deensideearlyyears@ gmail.com. Closing date for applications is September 3. THE LIBRARY Thomas Coogan Library is open Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm. To book and browse ring 4440561 or email castlecomer@ kilkennylibrary.ie

IN CHURCH Adoration & Prayer is in the church every Tuesday from 7pm to 9pm. Rosary recited at 8pm, Divine Mercy Chaplet at 8.45pm. EARLY YEARS All attendees are asked to obDeenside Early Years is recruit- serve social distance and to saniing for two Early Years Educator tise seats before locking church. roles. Roles: Part time role about 15 ART & CRAFT hours a week; Full time role about A group of local craft people and 35 hours a week. artists hold a pop-up exhibition Requirements: Minimum and sale in Castlecomer DiscovLevel 5 in Childcare; Awareness ery Park all this month. of preparations for inspections: The space is open daily from Current First aid, manual han- 10am to 5pm and will include a dling certificates desirable, Child wide range of affordable homeProtection; Knowledge of Aistear made products, many of which and Siolta Frameworks and its include upcycled, eco-friendly implementation. and sustainable materials. Blast from the past: Trish Tynan, Justin Ring, Caroline Coogan, Geraldine Shea, Geraldine Holohan and Martin Brennan Applicants will have experi-

Talented young Erin’s U10 camogie stars are starting out in the game

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

News – KEEPING IT LOCAL

‘We owe it to our older people’ A

ditional home-help with household tasks such as preparing meals, housework and grocery shopping in order to stay living at home and remain independent. However, Alone has found that for many, the issue is that home care solely relates to ‘personal care’ and does not extend to practical household services.

LONE, the organisation which supports older people has highlighted the need for an established and regulated home care sector to support seniors to age at home for as long as they wish. The organisation believes that the lack of governance within the home care sector has had an ongoing negative impact on home care workers, heightened by the Covid-19 pandemic. It contends that change is needed to ensure that home care workers are correctly protected, paid and trained. The home care sector has suffered as a result of Covid-19, with many care workers losing pay during the pandemic despite the HSE agreeing to pay providers who had to take time off work to self-isolate. During the height of the pandemic, many older people cancelled their home care services to avoid contact with a carrier of the virus. DUE TO RISKS Some older people also chose to pause care services during this time, due to the risks incurred from care providers going from house to house. In addition to this, many home care workers suffered a loss of income while self-isolating after coming into contact with a positive case of Covid, which resulted in some care workers experiencing additional financial pressure. Alone believe that increased supports are needed for home care workers for them to continue the valuable service they provide. Before the pandemic waiting lists for Home Care supports were continuing to lengthen and in many instances, lists were not being maintained.

Seán Moynihan, Alone CEO

The Home Care Coalition note that the shortfall in home care provision is resulting in delayed discharges from hospital settings and are impacting on waiting times in Accident and Emergency Departments. ACTION NEEDED The Coalition is aware of and is working to support the Department of Health in the development of a statutory scheme to be introduced in 2021. However, the current pandemic

will not grant this time and action is needed now. A home care packages allocation needs to be transparent while observing the allotment of hours required to provide an older person with an adequate and quality service. Alone believe that there needs to be a greater variety of practical supports available to older people to allow them to live independently at home. Many older people require the tra-

instatement have been successful, but there are still a number of older people who are struggling without the right level of support. To rectify this, we are encouraging Government to establish a regulated home care sector to ensure that every older person is receiving the necessary levels of support to age at home safely and securely.” He continued, “There are recurring SCALED BACK issues with the lack of hours and type Auxiliary support services such as of assistance offered by HSE, and Meals On Wheels have also been often the success of the application scaled back. for home support depends on the Although many older people have Public Health Nurse in some areas. now reinstated their home care services, but there are still individuals SPECIFIC NEEDS who have found themselves without “We owe it to our older people to prohome care services and are not re- vide them with a consistent level of ceiving an adequate level of support. high-quality service which is tailored Alone has been in touch with many to their specific needs for them to older people regarding issues with flourish independently in their own home care, and the organisation’s homes.” support line has received a number Since March, ALONE’s Support of calls from older people in relation Line has received 29,515 calls for to lapses in home care services. support. An older lady named Jane, who Alone staff and volunteers have has now enlisted the help of Alone, made over 155,267 calls to older had the same carer for 12 years but people who needed support, and had her pulled at the start of the provided more than 23,104 units of pandemic; the carer is yet to be rein- practical support, including collectstated. ing groceries and prescriptions. Jane is missing her carer and findAlone is providing ongoing support ing it difficult both on a social and 14,183 older people who require suppractical level not having her call in port for difficulties with loneliness, daily. health, finance, housing, accessing services, Covid-19 and other chalSTRUGGLING lenges. Seán Moynihan, CEO of Alone, told Alone is encouraging older people The Kilkenny Observer: “Quite a few who need advice to call 0818 222 024 of our older people put their Home from 8am-8pm, seven days a week. Support on hold at the height of lockContact Alone on 0818 222 024 if down due to fears of infection, or be- you have concerns about your wellcause they had family members avail- being, or the wellbeing of an older able to provide care. person you know. Further informaSince then, most requests for re- tion on www.alone.ie.

Advice for runners as you age By Eoin Everard Kilkenny Physiotherapy

The latter can reduce your risk of sustaining an overuse injury, strengthen alternative muscle groups that are not predominantly used when running, whilst also improving your aerobic fitness.

T’S NO secret that our bodies change as we age. However, whilst you may feel that your days as a whippet-like twenty something are behind you, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are no longer able to perform at your best. As the old adage says, ‘age is just a number’ and many runners find that through a combination of smart training and experience, they actually flourish once they hit the veteran ranks. So how can you ensure that age doesn’t get in the way of your running goals? Here are some tips for runners as they get older: CROSS TRAINING Many runners find that as they age the high impact nature of running can be unforgiving and persistent injuries and

Eoin Everard

niggles start to creep in. Your tendons become stiffer and therefore less able to tolerate stress. However cross training can

be the older runner’s saviour. Low impact activities such as cycling, swimming and aqua jogging make a great alternative to running.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY Whilst no training plan should ever be set in stone, it becomes even more important to listen to your body as you become older. As muscles age, the number and size of the individual muscle fibres decreases. This means that the body takes longer to recover between harder efforts. Try to listen to what your body is telling you and don’t be afraid to adapt your training when necessary. If you are feeling tired or have a niggle then schedule some extra easy days before your next hard work out.

QUALITY NOT QUANTITY As your power of recovery decreases with age, your focus should be on quality not quantity. The best older runners are savvy and know how to get the most ‘bang for their buck’ from training. You may find that it is beneficial to reduce your overall mileage to ensure that you are recovering optimally between your harder workouts and races. Focusing on the quality of your training rather than the quantity should also help you to achieve a healthy balance with the other commitments in your life.

if you have a sedentary job and spend most of your day sitting behind a desk. I came up with Sports Pilates to help me counteract aging and getting stiff while still trying to run at my best. Doing Sports Pilates moves helps to restore and keep the movement at your hip, your balance and core stability and glute strength. We have these things naturally enough when younger but need to work on them as we age.

USE EXPERIENCE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE One of the greatest benefits of hitting veteran status is that you can use your experience to your WORK ON MOBILITY As you age the elasticity of advantage. Older runners are far more your soft tissues decreases and joint motion becomes more re- likely to make smart and stricted, meaning your flexibility sensible decisions about their training because they is reduced.

This can be further impacted have learned from previous mistakes.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

SPORT – KEEPING IT LOCAL

Memory Lane with GAA scribe Jim Fogarty Dark, wet but sun shone for Cats 1999 U21 Hurling Final Kilkenny 1-13. Galway 0-14.

ITH DARK and wet conditions not helping the standard of hurling, this U21 All-Ireland Final at O’Connor Park, Tullamore was always going to be a dour struggle. Early signs before an attendance of 8,000 had been encouraging for Galway that had lost the previous two finals. Galway led by 0-5 to 0-1 after 10 minutes. It spurned an obvious point scoring opportunity in the 25th minute when Eugene Cloonan went for a goal from a free. The drive was parried to safety by Kilkenny goalkeeper Jamie Power. That miss lifted Kilkenny’s spirits and three minutes later Eddie Brennan goaled following a penetrating run by John O’Neill. Kevin Power added a point from a free for Kilkenny. Enda Linnane equalised for Galway before Eamon Donoghue gave them a single point advantage at the interval, 0-9 to 1-5. Cloonan pointed a free shortly

after the resumption. Kilkenny now hit form and points from Michael Gordon, John O’Neill and three Henry Shefflin frees had the Leinster champions ahead by 1-10 to 0-11 after 40 minutes. Galway retaliated with points from Enda Tannion, Darren O’Shaughnessy (free) and a lovely effort from play by Eugene Cloonan as they regained a narrow lead. Kilkenny drew level with Gordon’s second point and took the lead with a pointed free from Shefflin. Kilkenny midfielder JP Corcoran settled the issue with a magnificent sideline cut from 35 yards in the 59th minute. Over the course of the game, Galway drove 10 wides to Kilkenny’s 5. Best for Kilkenny were goalkeeper Jamie Power, Noel Hickey, Michael Kavanagh, John O’Neill, JP Corcoran, Michael Gordon, Eddie Brennan, until his injury, and Henry Shefflin for his free-taking. Enda Linnane was arguably Galway’s most prominent player. Goalkeeper Nigel Murray was

faultless. Enda Tannion tried his heart out at midfield. Up front was a struggle for Galway. Eugene Cloonan was their best forward, although restricted by a hand injury incurred early in the second half. The injury meant that he had to be withdrawn from free-taking duties. Referee was Ger Harrington, Cork. Kilkenny scorers: Henry Shefflin 0-8 (fs), Eddie Brennan 1-0, Michael Gordon 0-2, John O’Neill 0-1, JP Corcoran 0-1(lb), Kevin Power 0-1(f). Galway scorers: Eugene Cloonan 0-8 (7fs), Enda Linnane 0-1, Enda Tannion 0-1, Eamon Donoghue 0-1, Mark Kerins 0-1, David Donoghue 0-1, Darren O’Shaughnessy 0-1(f). Kilkenny: Jamie Power (Carrickshock), Adrian Walpole (Bennettsbridge), Noel Hickey (Dunamaggin), captain, Michael Kavanagh (St Lachtain’s), Aidan Cummins (Ballyhale), Sean Dowling (O’Loughlins), Richie Mullally (Glenmore), John O’Neill (John Lockes), JP

Corcoran (John Lockes), Michael Gordon (Piltown), Jimmy Coogan (Tullaroan), Kevin Power (Fenians), Alan Geoghegan (O’Loughlins), Henry Shefflin (Ballyhale), Eddie Brennan (Graigue/Ballycallan). Subs: Podge Delaney (Fenians) for Geoghegan. John Barron (Tullogher/Rosbercon) for Brennan. Niall McCormack (Dunamaggin), Derek Lyng (Emeralds), Pat Tennyson (Carrickshock), Paul Buggy (Conahy), Dick Carroll (Young Irelands), Tom Drennan (Young Irelands), Martin Comerford (O’Loughlins). Galway: Nigel Murray (Loughrea), Eoin McDonagh (Ballindereen), Diarmuid Cloonan (Athenry), Shane McClean (Killimor), Enda Linnane (Gort), Rory Gantley (Beagh), captain, Darren O’Shaughnessy (Turloughmore), Enda Tannion (St Thomas’s), Eamon Donoghue (Mullagh), David Tierney (Kilnadeema-Leitrim), Mark Kerins (Clarinbridge), David Loughrey (Gort), Aidan Poinard (Athenry), Eugene Cloonan (Athenry), David Donoghue (Athenry).

JIM FOGARTY is author of The Cross of Cashel All-Ireland U21 hurling finals 1964 to 2014. Kilkenny first appeared in an All-Ireland U21 final in 1968 and won a first title in 1974. Jim previously published a book on Tipperary County Senior Hurling Finals, The Dan Breen Cup, 1931 to 2011. He is a regular contributor to GAA match programme and GAA yearbooks. Jim took early retirement from his post as Kilkenny County Librarian as he always wanted to write books on the GAA. Jim can be contacted at jimfog1@gmail.com or at 086-1512946.

Subs: Shane Lawless (Killimor) for Poinard. Ronan Cullinane (Castlegar) for Loughrey, John Culkin (Abbeyknockmoy) for E. Donoghue. Terence Grogan (Castlegar), Shane Donoghue

Back: Seán Dowling, John O’Neill, Henry Shefflin, John Paul Corcoran, Aidan Cummins, Jimmy Coogan, Kevin Power, Richie Mullally. Front: Jamie Power, Michael Gordon, Alan Geoghegan, Michael Kavanagh, Noel Hickey (captain), Eddie Brennan, Adrian Walpole

(Athenry), Justin Cummins (Oranmore-Maree), Damien Huban (Kinvara), Cathal O’Reilly (Loughrea), David Huban (Kinvara).

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21 August 2020

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Fantastic value for a fiver T

HE CITY clash of noisy neighbours James Stephens and Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Loughlin Gaels was superb value for a fiver. The game was great and the only disappointment was more fans could not have been accommodated. However Covid rules had to be observed and in these tough

times there are drawbacks for everyone in every walk of life. Safety first is the name of the game as the GAA plays its part in battling to contain Coronavirus and in fairness the most ardent supporters accept that sacrifices have to be made. Among the attendance, running the rule over players

with the inter-county senior championship looming, were Kilkenny team boss, Brian Cody and selector James McGarry. There were many familiar faces in the sparse crowd and in fairness each and every one of them deserved access to tickets for their avid support of the game of hurling.

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When every mountain is Everest By Jimmy Rhatigan Graigue Ballycallan, often limping but ever willing, gave HEN the gods of all they had which unfortuhurling deem that nately for them was not good you have to play enough. ‘Vat will be delighted with without a string of injured players then every mountain the victory which, in fairness, they deserved. becomes an Everest. The possibility of a late, late Graigue Ballycallan will recovery was always there know the feeling. They were up against a but some wasteful efforts and Mullinavat team backboned stern defensive play ensured by a few experienced players, that Mullinavat eventually eased to their first win. including a solid defence. The position after a hectic And although they battled bravely to the bitter end, series of games over the the inevitable happened for weekend is that the St Canice’s Graigue Ballycallan as they Credit Union League Final lost all points to resilient South will be between O’Loughlin Gaels and Dicksboro while the Kilkenny opponents. The ‘Vat Club was a handful Senior Hurling Shield will be a clash of of points ahead at half time and after 65 minutes, including James Stephens and Clara. Then it will be into what five of extra time, five points separated the teams, 0-18 to some might term the real deal as he senior and other 0-13. championships get underway. After that, fingers crossed, it UPHILL BATTLE Although their players were will be the senior inter-county fighting an uphill battle, game that takes centre stage.

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Hens protected as bitter rivals JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

PECTATOR numbers in UPMC Nowlan Park may have been restricted but those who got their hands on what we might call Covid tickets certainly had their voice boxes working overtime. Whether a derby march is an Old Trafford clash between United and City or an Ibrox confrontation between Celtic and Rangers there is always passion and pride. The same can certainly be said when noisy neighbours meet in a St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League of Championship game. The fare was good, often exciting, and the standard was high as city clubs James Stephens

and O’Loughlin Gaels scrapped. some great hurling, ferocious Every ball was fought for with work rate and lashings of skills. gusto and fervour. PENDULUM SWUNG SHADOW BOXING Neither club could get a real grip The first half was a kind of on the game as a hurling pendushadow boxing exercise, high- lum swung to and fro. Right through the second lighting the respect that the local period it would have taken a rivals have for each other. It was as if both teams nesting brave man or woman, or a fool, hens sitting on eggs and the em- to put a handy €50 on either of phasis was on protecting their the teams. Result was that the teams own clucking girls rather than pinching any eggs from under ended with 2-16 apiece, a very fair result. rival Rhode Island Reds. Supporters will have had As if I wasn’t warm enough, a muggy 23 degrees for the most mixed views on the outcome. part, the throttles in the engines Optimists may have felt that of two brilliant hurling machines their favourites should have were roaring full blast after the done the business,. Pessimists were probably half time chinwag, stormy or happy that their club didn’t lose otherwise. and hurling neutrals, who may THAT WAS MORE LIKE IT. not have cared one way or the Caution was thrown to whatever other, went home happy with soft wind was blowing as the a derby in which both horses clubs went for the jugular with crossed the finish line together.

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fought to be cock of the walk

Stephens ardent supporter Alan Larkin, left, has a birdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eye view

Billy Kenny cleans his specs as the hurling action begins

These lads love their hurling

No doubt about whom Richie Manogue was supporting

Happiness is bringing a loving child to a hurling game

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