Kilkenny Observer - October 2, 2020 by kilkennyobserver

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Observer FREE EDITION Friday 2 October 2020

High flyers Shamrocks too good for ‘Boro

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Love, Love, Love: All You Need is Love

By Jimmy Rhatigan Tuesday coffee mornings thanks to the regular arrival of RUE LOVE is a doting big numbers of mums and their mother cradling a baby little bundles of joy. on a sun-kissed morn’. Because of Covid restrictions There is hardly a greater bond there is no singing or dancing than that of a mum and her wee but cleverly arranged tables, the son or daughter. aroma of coffee, the hum of chit It is apt that what is arguably chat and the odd baby tears for our city’s most beautiful street souvenirs ensure that the area plays host to the mothers and is delightful for chilling out. babies of our city and county It is also a curiosity corner every week. for recent born babes and a Business people with a huge healthy open air experience for pride in St Kieran’s Street and environs believed that a weekly those who appreciate the magic love affair in their shopping bai- of a city street that in many reliwick would add to the charm spects rivals the best that many of a picture postcard region that world capitals can muster. To be part of the festivities is one of the jewels in the crown you need only to agree with the of Kilkenny shopping. famous words of The Beatles, How right they were. All You Need Is Love. CURIOSITY CORNER Who loves you baby? We all do All human life thrives on Full story and pictures Pages 18 & 19

Lisdowney’s Houdini act as Shamrocks delight By Jimmy Rhatigan the ropes but failed to deliver a knockout blow. HE showpiece of local hurling was merely a support act as our DODGING BULLETS county final festival was hijacked More accurately, Lisdowney kept dodging the bullets and then fired their own by party poopers Lisdowney. Focus was on the senior final be- scuds. The fever pitch battle was level on and tween high kings Ballyhale Shamrocks off right up to the dying seconds when and brave Dicksboro. But it was the intermediate thunder- Lisdowney grabbed a Lazarus-like lifestorm of Lisdowney and Thomastown line with a rattling goal. The teams were still locked together that sparked pre-Hallowe’en fireworks as mighty men grappled for promotion after extra time and in an edge of seats penalty shoot-out and sudden death Listo senior. The game was a magical mystery downey completed its great Houdini act. In contrast the senior game proved to tour as nobody had a clue what was be a walk in the park. coming next. Take nothing away from Shamrocks. It was awesome, heart- thumping, a mishmash of gladiatorial proportions, Led by the clever Joey Holden, the club brilliant scores, blazing performances, showed no mercy for a ‘Boro that apan energy-sapping affair that would tire peared to get stage fright and didn’t perform as we know it can. the hind legs of a plough horse. Several times, Thomastown, led by More finals’ weekend words and pictures Another crown for Shamrocks, the thoroughbreds of Pages 4,6, 8, 34, 35, 38&39 Kilkenny hurling John Donnelly, had Lisdowney on

Comrades in arms who helped to fire Lisdowney to glory Pics: Danny Lahart EVERY FRIDAY

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The Invincibles: More silver for Shamrocks

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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Generation game: Kids are born to hurl

The Lisdowney girls behind the wire

Emotional victory Win was major for Lisdowney Up for the cup: Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top senior hurling next year Pics: Danny Lahart

Eoin Reid and Mark Aylward with the future generation of Shamrocks hurlers

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Tears of family joy as 60 year gap bridged

Happy stalwarts, Mick Fogarty and Jimmy Skehan, both of whom played in Lisdowney’s last Intermediate final appearance in 1978 when the club was beaten by O’Loughlin Gaels

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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EDITORIAL EXTRA

Workers offered 10cents as TDs climb to €98,000 JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

HEN politicians knock on doors seeking our votes they stop short of telling us they love us. But when it comes to any distribution of goodies, we are at the back of the queue as they mop up another generous wage hike. What we are putting up with is nothing short of reprehensible. The lads and lassies of the Dáil, our gracious TDs, have had their mitts out again to accept another bucket of money that will bring their generous salaries next door to €100,000, plus expenses. Senators too have had more money shovelled into their pockets and of course that is also

embellished with expenses. All this is at a time when a Government-appointed body called The Low Pay Commission could come up only with a proposed pitiful increase of 10 cents. And a grouping of TDs from Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Greens voted against a suggested plan to help out of work Debenhams employees. UNION WALKOUT Yes, it is hard to credit but a miserly 10 cents was the best that the Low Pay Commission could put on the table to top up the national minimum wage of €10.10 an hour. That led to the trade union reps on the commission walking out in disgust, saying it was not prepared up to sign up to what some called a derisory offer.

The walkout by Patricia King, general secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Gerry Light of the Mandate Union throws the commission into turmoil and may now leave any heavy lifting on the Government’s doorstep. The latter will hardly lead to

10 cents for the real workers and in contrast, another hefty rise at a time when the same mollycoddled boys and girls of the Dáil have cut Covid payment to those who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own. Let’s not forget the unfortunate ministers who all but admitted that they cannot do their own jobs without the aid of spin doctors and advisers. P45s must be out of print as SMALL BUSINESS RESPECT Come next election time, voters those we elected, God love us, to should not forget the figures, represent us are simply not able any optimism among our hard working men and women who were lauded for being so courageous at the peak of the pandemic as FF, FG and the Greens simply have no appetite to feed the families of those who backbone our country. But the politicians’ own hunger for money would appear to be insatiable.

to stand on their own legs. If all this weren’t so callous it would be laughable. All this is with respect to small businesses in particular in our communities, many of whom are struggling to keep their doors open, but in Kilkenny in particular are known to give staff the respect they deserve. In God we trust but our politicians at all levels have a question mark over them. Meanwhile the servants continue to be paid a hell of a lot more than the masters.

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CANDLELIGHT VISION for gran and grandson nanny’s pride and joy. Eoin is in 1st year at Presentation, Ballingarry.

JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

HERE may be half a century between a loving grandmother and a grandson but the close-knit pair have so much in common. Both are outgoing, quiet, very friendly and love a chat, especially with each other and from a recent chinwag has emerged a spark of brilliance that shows both in a new light. As well as being buddies from different eras, granny Eileen Lay of Foxcover, Cuffesgrange and grandson Eoin Cleary from Ballingarry, Tipperary are now business partners. “We were chatting in nanny’s house when she suggested we should go into business together,”12-year-old Eoin told The Kilkenny Observer. So the seeds were sown for a possible business empire. Cleary Candles, a name that got the thumbs up from the new business partners was launched at the Castleinch Car Boot Sale on Business partners: Granny Eileen Lay and grandson Eoin Cleary the periphery of our city.

AN AMBASSADOR He knows full well that his mother, a daughter of Kilkenny, is a big follower of our Cats while Tipp-born dad Noel is naturally, an aficionado of Tipperary. While he is a budding entrepreneur, Eoin is also an ambassador in the making as he says that he supports Kilkenny and Tipperary. His sporting preferences are soccer and basketball. Young Niall who is in 3rd Class at Ballingarry Primary School has a passion for hurling. When Tipp and Kilkenny clash the Cleary family is a love divided for a few hours. But at all other times it is a case of one happy and close-knit extended family. When it comes to Cleary Candles all will be flying the same flag. And in the back of Eoin’s mind, as he told The Observer, will be the expansion of a candle-making business with his nanny when he finishes school. Facebook address is Cleary Candles.

GOOD FOR ENVIRONMENT “We put our home-made candles on sale at a stall we paid €25 to rent and we were delighted with the response,” said Eoin. “We made €100, €50 will be reinvested in our partnership and we earned €25 each for our day’s work that started at 6am and finished at 3.30pm.” What was once a bake house with Mrs Lay providing brown bread and confections for family and friends is now a full steam ahead candle-making operation . The Foxcover woman whose husband Ted passed away recently had researched the art of making environmentally friendly candles, an idea that hit the spot with grandson Eoin. “We bought a beginners’ kit, Soy wax, a glue gun, wicks, jars, Business boy Eoin, smiling and delighted to meet customers at Castleinch Car Boot Sale tins, and in no time at all our products were ready for the market,” critics so we were happy to go to protect our environment and are est. Also it is nice to give people Eileen said. our first public sale. good value for money make good a product that is easy on the “Our launch at the Car Boot sales pitches for us. pocket.” THUMBS UP Sale went very well. A jar holds a The business has the backing of “We made two types of wax 6oz candle and sells for €8 while PRIDE AND JOY the entire Cleary family. candles. We put a wick in a tin or the tin, a first cousin of a church “I was very proud of Eoin at our Eoin’s mum Sinead and dad jar, poured the wax, added a fra- candle is good value at €3. first sale. He loves to chat to Noel are both keen hurling fans, grance and let it all settle. “People were very positive people and is really enthusiastic albeit in opposite camps. “Before putting our candles on and complimentary and liked about our business. We both had Sinead works in the household sale we gave samples to friends our candles. That gave us a great good fun too. department at our local St Luke’s and asked them to put the can- feeling. “The business will be good for General Hospital where sons dles to the test. “The candles make ideal gifts at us, particularly as winter looms. Eoin and Niall, aged 8 were born. “We got good reviews from our any time of the year and that they It will give us both an extra interThe Cleary brothers are their

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES: POITÍN MAKING, REARING PIGS, KNITTING see page 22

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Delivery Solutions: Medication from pharmacy to your home

and in turn they are comforted by the knowledge that come rain, hail or snow we will always return to them to replenish their tablet boxes,” David Duggan told The Kilkenny Observer.

VITAL MEDICATION Indeed the innovative plan is for all family members as working parents liaise with Delivery Solutions to ensure that grandparents

UNDER PRESSURE Initial plan is to get the pharma section up and running and then to work closely with local retailers to support their businesses that are now more than ever under pressure from online giants in the UK and elsewhere. “By working as a unit we can not only help to strengthen the lot of retailers in our community who, in fairness, are the lifeblood of local trade and commerce and a jobs’ chain that will continue to support our children and children’s children,” said David. “We will carry goods from retailers to their customers’ doors so while online services may promise record-breaking delivery times we will always be at a home before them. “With competition now razor edge, it is most important that as Kilkenny people we should work together to support local, as neighbours’ children we are in this trade and retail battle together and with a great city and county as our base we have a real advantage.”

By Jimmy Rhatigan OR MILLIONS of people across the globe the Coronavirus Pandemic has been a bitter pill to swallow. But for a young local entrepreneur it is an ill wind that has given him a business opportunity and an avenue to helping families across urban and rural Kilkenny. Delivery Solutions is the brainchild of David Duggan, a member of the highly respected Duggan family of The Monster House, High Street, Kilkenny fame. For generations his family served our people well and provided hundreds of jobs over the years. Now, David who worked in the Monster House until 2003 has come up with a bright idea for his native place, a prescription delivery service to local homes that initially will be a local operation but will expand in coming months. His company will be a two-way street between delivery man and client, a new world service for those who may be cocooning in their homes.

David Duggan will deliver to family homes

and great grandparents always have a supply of vital medication. A small fleet of vehicles is already delivering prescriptions the length and breadth of our city and county and Delivery Solutions is delighted with the warm welcome it has received from local families. In a run-up to his launch, David Duggan did market research with the pharmacies of greater Kilkenny, also working closely with hospitals, medical centres and Bluebird Homecare Team. “The reaction of people on their own door steps when we arrive with their medical supplies has been really friendly and rewarding. “Keeping our distance, we are enjoying chatting with our clients

LADY DESART David worked in his family uniform section for many years as the business supplied outfits to schools and the hotel industry. Originally from Talbot’s Inch, David still lives in the Talbot’s Inch Village where one of our truly great entrepreneurs of yesteryear, Lady Desart lived and promoted small industries that provided jobs for locals and boosted the lot of Kilkenny families. It is a case of history repeating itself. His wife Gillian is from Limerick and teaches in Carlow. The couple has four children, Kate, aged 15, Cara 14, twins Tommy and Paddy, 11. It’s full speed ahead for the Duggan Family as Delivery Solutions cover homes in the main streets, side streets, avenues and boreens of Kilkenny. David loves working with communities he can identify with. He reminds that he is not running a courier service but a discreet delivery operation that respects the privacy of clients and carries out the wishes of medical and pharmaceutical suppliers in the region. Contact your local pharmacy for deliveries or David Duggan on 087-2863905 or david@deliverysolutions.ie

Anne celebrates 70th birthday

Anne Ryan: 70 years young

IGH STREET business woman Ann Ryan of RJ Ryan Electrical has celebrated a special birthday. The woman who for decades has been so kind to those who may have been going through bad times was delighted that so many of her friends called to wish her well. Saturday signalled 70 years and the daughter of Greenfields, a staunch supporter of the Kilkenny Observer celebrated with a glass or two of her favourite tipple, red vino. The store which Anne and her brother Martin have run for years is much more than a place of business. Family pride and huge respect for their parents and greater Ryan family spurred the duo to keep the doors open even in tough financial times. It was little to do with trade or commerce but all about care for customers who continue to be loyal as big business dominates.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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OBEY COVID RULES Murph appeals to young

RS MURPHY breaks the habit of a lifetime today. “All of my life I have admired young people and love their company but for the first time ever I am really disappointed with some of them who I feel are letting themselves and their families down badly. “As a young girl I loved to mix and make friends. We all played games together, enjoyed walking to school in groups and meeting particularly at weekends simply to enjoy each other’s company. “As His Nibs and me got older we encouraged our children to be outgoing and friendly and to help people where possible. “That tradition continued with the arrival of our grandchildren and I have to say that me and His Nibs are delighted with the way every one of them turned out and behaved themselves,” she told The Kilkenny Observer. “My gripe, if you could call it that, is that as Covid.19 is coming back at us without mercy for a second time that too many of our young, not all of them teenagers mind you are not showing this terrible illness the respect it deserves.

“Day after day as numbers of people infected increase dramatically and, sadly, more people are dying, medical experts are appealing and appealing again to everyone to keep their distance and not to be gathering in big groups, among other advice such as regular hand washing.

“I know that practically everyone in pension years is obeying this advice to the letter of the law. “We were locked down for many months and didn’t get to interact or even see our children or grandchildren for ages. “That was heartbreak but we knew it was also vital for the health of our people and hence we were prepared to make the sacrifices. “I would hope that our efforts will not amount to a waste of time as from what we see on the telly and read about in the newspapers our younger generation, a minority of them I would like to believe, are not playing ball, as my good father God rest him would say to us if we stepped out of line. “To be honest our elderly in particular are living in fear as the virus hits hard again. “That is only natural and to be truthful our concern is not for ourselves only but also for our loved one of all ages, all of whom can be victims of the disease. “I am well aware that younger people have a lot better chance of surviving the illness than us elder lemons.

“I hope our youth will always be safe but in asking our children and children’s children to be more cautious and to make the sacrifices, I would remind that as well as putting their grannys and grandads at risk, they are also endangering the lives of their mothers and fathers. “By ignoring the rules they heighten the risk of bringing the disease home to them through recklessness with social distancing and by gathering in forbidden numbers. “For the life of me, I would not want to see any young people hurt as every one of them is someone’s son or daughter. “I appeal to them to abide by all the medical advice, a route that could lead to a decrease in numbers getting the illness and hopefully the eventual eradication of the virus altogether. “It will take courage and sacrifice to keep everybody safe but that is a small price to pay for putting your own lives and the lives of others at risk. “Please god everybody will see the light and see it immediately, otherwise I fear that we may be in for a very dark and sad winter.” Keep safe everybody, Murph.

Breastfeeding during Covid.19 Pandemic T

HIS YEAR has been like no other. How we live our lives has changed drastically and breastfeeding support is no exception. When the country locked down, La Leche League (LLL) responded, hosting its first virtual meeting on March 18. Since then, there have been close to 200 meet-ups, almost daily, on a wide variety of platforms. Each virtual meet-up is guided by at least one internationally accredited La Leche League Leader, providing evidence-

based, up-to-date information as well as practical support for mothers. New babies are vulnerable and need support, and so too do new parents. Although they may be determined to breastfeed, it is increasingly difficult for expectant and new parents to know where to access correct information and breastfeeding support. It is normal to have questions and concerns about breastfeeding when it is so new to both baby and you. With current restrictions limiting access to family and commu-

nity support, many parents have increased anxiety levels around breastfeeding. INVADING PATHOGENS LLL aims to empower new parents by continuing to provide accurate breastfeeding information. With all in-person meetings currently suspended, La Leche League Leaders remain available to parents during this time by phone, social media and virtual meet-ups. During the pandemic, more parents are choosing breastfeeding to optimise the health of their children. Babies benefit from multiple and diverse immunological proteins, including antibodies, provided in human milk, particularly through direct breastfeeding. “Breastmilk contains numerous live components including immunoglobulins, antiviral factors... all of which help destroy invading pathogens and boost the baby’s own immune system” (UNICEF). Exciting new research shows that antibodies with reactivity to the Covid.19 virus have been detected in the breastmilk of mothers previously infected with Covid-19. With over 60 years of breastfeeding experience, LLL en-

courages and supports all families to establish and sustain breastfeeding. Breastfeeding and pregnant parents can access support during this difficult time of social distancing via ‘phone, Messenger and social media. TOUCH OF A BUTTON “It is nice to have that support at the touch of a button, especially when you feel quite isolated. “Advice, tips and encouraging support helps boost our confidence and encourage

us as mothers,” says Laoise, LLL member. They can also virtually attend group meet-ups and connect with other parents in the same situation. “The online Zoom meetings provide me with a sense of calm and normality, allowing me to be content at home and nurse my baby,” says Áine, LLL member. La Leche League Kilkenny hold a weekly zoom meet up on Wednesday mornings at 10.30am. This is open to all mums to be and breastfeeding mothers, who

would like to connect with other breastfeeding mums and our leaders, for a chat or for breastfeeding information. Please contact 086-662 7290 for information or on our Facebook page Kilkenny La Leche League. Details of virtual meetings can be found on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. La Leche League groups are listed on www.lalecheleagueireland.com, Facebook www.facebook.com/lalecheleagueireland, Instagram @lalecheleagueofireland, Twitter @LaLecheIreland.

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City centre alfresco party is JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

NNOVATIVE Kilkenny is certainly not sitting on its hands. It is standing up for itself, on its own two feet, thinking hard and copper-fastening the bond that already exists between customer and shopper. Ironically, the word sitting is at the heart of a brilliant plan that is running smoothly right through its well-planned schedule. Tuesday is Buggies, Bibs and Baby Chinos, a parent and baby morning hosted by St Kieran’s Street traders and immediate neighbours. Fulcrum of the Welcome to St Kieran’s Street gathering is the excellent new outdoor seating area for dining, relaxing or simply chatting, provided by our county council. It was perhaps the alfresco seating that promoted sharp

local business owners to issue an invite to the mums, dads and babies, grandparents and great grandparents as well, to a morning of fun and games and a little bit of shopping in the area. ROBIN HOOD Had Robin Hood of Sherwood Forest fired an arrow in the region it would have hit the spot. And hit the spot is exactly what this community initiative has done as families flock to the street called after St Kieran and its environs for a reunion on the town – make that city. Responsible for the positive thinking were Ann Barber of the Butterslip Shop, Rose Inn Street, JD Flynn of Kyteler’s Inn and Laura Gannon at Face 2. The thinking behind the project was that because of Covid19 mother and baby groups can no longer get suitable indoor venues to share the joy of their little ones. Our Market Yard, once famous for visiting carnivals, dare diving from on high and Hoopla

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a Mother and Child Reunion Stalls has again become a chil- MIRROR IMAGE dren’s playground on Tuesday “This is a two-way street with exmornings. tended families enjoying a break and businesses experiencing a IDEAL ANTHEM spin-off. Perhaps someone may have “A bunch of other stores them suggested it already but our came on board and gave disview is that the Paul Simon song counts to shoppers. The Pantry Mother and Child Reunion and The Yard provided diswould make an ideal anthem counted coffee. for what have become mag“The idea of giving people annificent market meetings. Cake other incentive to visit our city Face has served up free coffee centre certainly proved to be a and Kyteler’s Inn has opened its wise one. baby changing facility to the in“It has become a win-win fants of our city and county situation for customers and busi“We put out invites and word nesses.” spread like wildfire,” Ann Barber Perhaps the story of Cork-born told The Kilkenny Observer. Ann Barber’s life in Kilkenny will “We are delighted that fami- be mirrored by the success of the lies are coming from here, there city centre baby boom? and everywhere. The venue is “I came here for a weekend buggy and wheelchair-friendly, 20 years ago and stayed for a the area is top of the pops for lifetime. I love it here. We have social distancing and that it is a great city; there are so many outdoors is a huge plus. positives about it.” “It looks as if parents and chilPlan is to continue the cofdren were waiting for a meeting fee mornings every Tuesday, place to turn up. We are de- weather permitting. Details will lighted families are coming in be available on the St Kieran’s big numbers. Street Facebook page.

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Observations Can Santa deliver Stephen’s Day for Donnelly? with Jimmy Rhatigan

Donnelly has the dubious presence of a groom ambling to the altar because the bride’s father has a shotgun to his back. FF will long for Stephen’s Day for Donnelly. Their best bet is to have a word with Santa.

T MAY be a contradiction but sadly it is also a reality. Our dithering Government has become a playground for perfectionists of imperfection. Ideas may have been thrown around with good intention but for the most part ended up in chaos. Crazy cock-ups since the formation of Government have been akin to a groom who bought a trousers for a wedding but discovered only on the morning of the nuptials that the damn thing was four inches too long in the legs. Every time Fianna Fáil set out to march together they trundled to disaster as if most have their bootlaces tied together. Joined up planning may have been the plan but the common conclusion was that some if not all involved in any launch, press conference or debate may have been members of a committee that set out to design a horse but ended up with a camel. CLEVERFEST PARTY Awful leadership, most notably in Fianna Fáil and The Greens could be fingered for a lot of the bungling but many ministers have not covered themselves in glory either. As we have pointed out in recent weeks, Fine Gael is by far the cleverest party when it comes to strategy. Its obvious plan is to let its socalled colleagues in Government make fools of themselves and in fairness the Greens and FFers have become masters of imperfection. That FG has taken this route at a time when a pandemic is biting brutally is hardly to its credit either. As a Coalition it should be all hands to the pumps but with FG with home alone ambitious, obviously playing politics, taking advantage of weaker opponents all is certainly not fair in love and war. Or perhaps the latter would be more aptly a cold war. SQUARE PEGS With some notable exceptions, politics has developed a habit of trying to fit square pegs into round holes in Government. A man with a law degree could

We could go on but in summary we simply remind that the dirty world of politics hasn’t change and may never be any different. KILLING FIELD The real war should be against Coronavirus but the reality is that it is a background battle for future power is the killing field that would appear to have grasped most minds in the Dáil, perhaps because the rewards are lucrative. That politicians cocoon in a bubble of privilege there is no doubt. Most haven’t a clue about the realities of life. That is mainly because they live in a world where €100,000 a year and maybe as much again, plus generous expenses, has to mean a better quality of life than your average worker who may have to survive on €30,000 or much less while feeding and clothing children. The other world that wellheeled politicians live in was highlighted before the last General Election when so-called bigwig gurus from FF, FG and the Greens were asked if they knew how much an old age pensioner got a week from the State. easily fine himself in charge of an environment department while an agricultural student might end up in charge of Defence Forces affairs. That badly thought policy we could blame for many catastrophic appointments. But, on the other hand we have had some doctors as ministers for health, appointments that should have been neat fits but, sadly results were not great either. In modern politics it would appear that the belief is that it takes teams of highly paid advisers, jobs for the boys, to keep politicians with notions on the straight and narrow. Providing props for any strug-

glers has to be a waste of good money as confusion continues to reign supreme. Any FG master plan towards eventual domination in Government, we would assume, centres on a political game of man-toman marking. PLOT IS WORKING Whoever came up with the tactic may get kudos as the plot is working and until FF and the Greens waken up it will continue to do the business for the Blueshirts. Leo Varadkar has done a brilliant job of man-marking Micheál Martin, stealing his thunder at every hand’s turn. The latter is hardly a tough assignment in fairness as Martin is

akin to a soccer player in his near retirement years, still togging out but with more emphasis on copper-fastening his nest egg than concentrating on promotion for his team. Former Health Minister Simon Harris always appeared to be under pressure in office. But for whatever reasons the general public took him to its heart, perhaps because of his youth. We have no doubt that Harris was happy to offload the health burden and he too is now part of the Fine Gael man-to-man team.

the latest incumbent to a post that has to be a poison chalice of sorts. Many students of politics had suggested that Stephen Donnelly would eventually be a knight in shining armour. As an independent, he looked to be the real deal. Then, amid controversy he joined the Social Democrats where he continued to impress. Next stop was Fianna Fáil where, with respect, he has the demeanour of a former Second Division player struggling with life after a surprise transfer to The Premiership. KNIGHT IN ARMOUR Again Harris is his shadow and The latter is a party favourite that is being lauded by some pundits is keeping a watching brief on simply for hanging around while

BLANKETY BLANK Some guessed and got it wrong and then had to admit that they simply didn’t know. Imaging asking those lads and lassies what is the average price of a sliced pan or a tin of peas. Blankety blank faces would no doubt result. Until politicians come out of their protective shells there will always be two worlds, one for the wealthy and the other for the struggling. The next election could help to change that but as our people have made no real effort for change over 100 years of same old, same old, there is little reason to believe that any cages will be rattled any time soon.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES SPECIAL

POITÍN MAKING

Famed in song and story JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

HAT WAS our country’s most famous cottage industry? All kinds of everything will be mentioned including pig rearing, knitting and country butter making. These and many more would have been hugely popular but the one to hit the jackpot and maybe the pee-pot was the wonderful, if frowned on occupation of poitíin making. For generations the art of making an illicit strong alcoholic drink kept many poor families afloat and ensured that our Gardai were never short of someone to chase. Distilling of what was colloquially called Moonshine was a huge cottage industry the length and breadth of our country, vilified and loved at the same time. It was just ahead in popularity of the back yard earner that was the industry of rearing bonhams or piglets to eventually bring The once popular poitín making still home the bacon. larly in rural parts. The death of cottage industries DODGING BOYS IN BLUE is blamed by many on the arrival There was a strong entrepre- of the so-called Celtic Tiger that neurial spirit among poitín mak- turned many of us into small ers who as well as being handed time big shots as with pockets down the tradition of making and wallets full we concentrated the rare auld mountain dew also on eating, drinking and being quickly learned the dubious art of merry. dodging the boys in blue. So cunning and clever were HOME BREWING the moonshiners that they often Another great home industry was positioned their still or poitín pot the sewing of the world famous on land boundaries so the issue Moccasin Shoes where mothers, of ownership could be disputed fathers, sons and daughters all if there was a raid and the often earned pocket money, in many mountainy men were caught cases funding bread and butter. with their trousers down. The work was for Padmore & A bit like the Robin Hoods Barnes Boot Factory, Wolfe Tone and Dick Turpins of other times, Street which over the years gave those who made poitín were employment to thousands of usually generous souls with their local families. strong potion, sometimes used to As a bonus, family members kill cold and also, we are told did not directly employed by the the trick as a muscle rub. company were given an opportunity of making money to boot. MEDICINAL PURPOSES Other, hardly lucrative but vital Dare we say it, while the con- for existence industries were jam stabulary’s job was to close down making, with blackcurrant, strawstills, the nod and wink was that berry, gooseberry and marmasome kindly and broadminded lade most popular. Gardai were partial to the odd Home brewing and wine makdropín themselves, for medicinal ing were also perfected by innopurposes! vative men in particular, with elSadly or perhaps gladiy for derberry and mulled wines going some, poitín is for the most part down well at Christmas time in a thing of the part, but a cottage particular. industry that along with many other such initiatives could play FAMILY SACRIFICES a real part in the revival of our There were times when family The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem sang the Irish Drinking Song Moonshiner country post pandemic, particu- sacrifices had to be made to facil-

itate these industries as children, adults too often had to make do with a sink wash as family baths would be filled with fermenting alcohol. Yet more home products included grandmothers in particular knitting jumpers and jerseys for grandchildren and neighbours’ children, candle making, butter making, rearing of chickens and ultimately egg rounds, bread and confectionary baking, cheese making, pottery honing, dog walking and a dying business called Taxidermy. Thinning beet, picking strawberries and blackcurrants were other ways of making pocket money. Many of the latter could be revived to give a new life to rural Ireland in particular. RIPE FOR RE-INCARNATION Taxidermy is ripe for re-incarnation as with our great love of family pets, particularly dogs and cats, there would be an opportunity to keep our canine pals alive after they sadly pass away. To end as we started we remind that a ballad called The Moonshiner was sung by the Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem on an album called Irish Drinking Songs. By an unknown author, the writer referred fondly to his dad whose passing was due to moonshine and he dared the poitín to kill himself. As an epilogue we remind of a world famous and inspirational speaker and author Dr Wayne Dyer. When he was a boy, his father absconded leaving his mother, himself and his brother in bad financial shape. COURAGE AND HARD WORK Dr Dyer never despaired, never resorted to ‘poor me’ and instead worked hard. As an orphan he was always thinking and being innovative. When snow would be forecast he would keep a shovel under his mattress in an orphanage. Following a heavy downfall, he would be out at cock crow on the following morning clearing footpaths for US neighbours. He would then call from door to door reminding that he was the worker who had done the business. His reward would be a few dollars from practically every home. In our country we need bundles of Dr Dyer’s courage and hunger for hard work as a survival kit and then a road to progress when we eventually conquer Coronavirus.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

News – KEEPING IT LOCAL

MacDonagh’s autismfriendly shopping

Fireworks:

Workers insulted by 10 cents

McDonagh Junction respects its shoppers

ACDONAGH Junction Shopping Centre has announced the introduction of autism-friendly retail hours. Aim of is to ensure a more inclusive shopping experience by regulating and reducing the amount of sensory stimulation taking place for people with autism. Reduced noise and lighting levels, priority seating, online social stories and the availability of ear defenders are among some of the measures being introduced by the programme which will run each Sunday between 12 noon and 2pm. The centre partnered with AsIAm, Ireland’s national autism charity and advocacy organisa-

tion to participate in a training session to gain a better insight into autism and to learn how best to engage with customers with the condition in an effort to resolve common challenges. The centre is long established as an inclusive shopping space. VERY PROUD Services include accessible toilet facilities, wheelchair loan service, height adjustable changing bench, baby feeding room, agefriendly shopping and free Wi-Fi. Centre Manager Marion Acreman told The Kilkenny Observer: “We are very proud of the space we occupy in Kilkenny since 2007 and the services we offer to the local community, not just

for shopping but as a living and a community space. “It is very important to us that all visitors can feel comfortable when they choose to support MacDonagh Junction. “It was a real pleasure, working with AsIAm, our own team and the retail teams to learn more about autism and to analyse our facilities to see how we can make the experience for people with autism better so we can continue to improve our service. “We welcome any feedback from people with autism or families of persons with autism in the weeks ahead as this programme begins.” More information from www. macdonaghjunction.com

UR workers deserve a minimum pay of €12.30 an hour, Sinn Féin’s Kathleen Funchion told The Observer. She was speaking after the contradictory position taken by the Government in denying a decent pay increase to low paid workers but gifting Junior Ministers with highly paid advisers. The Government-appointed Low Pay Commission could only manage a proposal for a 1% hike that of10cents increase on minimum pay of €10.10 an hour. “Following this ridiculous proposal the Irish Congress of Trade Union withdrew from the Low Pay Commission and Sinn Féin fully supports the unions.” Funchion added: “The global health emergency has put a spotlight on the need for high standards of health and safety at work and the derisory pay and protections many of our workers have to endure under our laws. “We must re-examine the manner in which we define essential or frontline work. “In addition to the excellent work of hospital and health care workers we continue to have Trojan work and service by retail and supply chain workers. NECESSITIES OF LIFE “The latter and others keep us supplied with essential food and goods. “These and countless other workers deserve more than a paltry increase.”

Not interested in sex: Is this you? CLAIR WHITTY Nutritional Health Coach

OW LIBIDO, low sex drive, or simply not being interested in sex, does this sound like you? Women will notice changes around the time of the menopause, and later as we get older, we may experience vaginal dryness and thinning mucous membranes. This can make sex feel uncomfortable which can result in lack of interest. Men too experience low sex drive. Both sexes can experience periods of low libido at any point. It’s considered normal as we get older but why is that some people never have this problem? Stress, tiredness, exhaustion, inadequate diet, and hormonal imbalance will affect sex drive.

Antioxidant rich foods found in brightly coloured fruit and vegetables will help too. You could add Maca (a Peruvian herb traditionally used to improve sex drive) to smoothies.

to improve circulation these small changes could make a difference. Take a look at an interesting supplement put together by Dr Marilyn Glenville PhD. This particular supplement can help men and women. It contains an excellent mix of nutrients to support the body and to help improve sex drive. It’s called NHP Libido Support. It contains L-arginine which is important for normal blood flow to those areas involved in a healthy sex life. Lhistidine is included because low levels can contribute to low sex drive. It also contains Damiana, Rhodiola and Ginger all considered natural aphrodisiacs, as well as Maca and Siberian ginseng. NHP Libido Support it could be worth a try. Call in to see us at Market Cross Shopping Centre to find out more.

IMPROVE CIRCULATION Make tea with some ginger

Phone: 056-7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

Some medication like anti-depressants may be impacting on your sex drive, have a chat with your doctor about this. BLOOD TESTS Ask your doctor to do some blood tests for you. You could check hormone levels and maybe thyroid too. Some changes that may help include: Regular exercise as this can increase your self-image and improve your mood. From time to time I have read about certain foods being helpful to boost libido, oysters in particular comes to mind. But I think that ultimately, it’s a healthy balanced diet that’s needed. I would aim to have plenty of omega oils from fish as this will help with lubrication in general throughout the body. Add in foods that are good for circulation like cayenne pepper, hawthorn tea, and buckwheat.

“We will hear the usual cries from the usual circles that this is populism. “It’s strange how we only hear that when it comes to helping working families and never when the tax breaks, concessions and grants are doled out to the rich.

Kathleen promises fireworks in the Dáil

She continued “A living wage is intended to establish an hourly rate that should provide a worker with enough income to have an acceptable standard of living. “It is the income floor which allows employees to obtain the necessities of life. “Earnings below the living wage mean workers are deprived of essentials. “With the cost of living increasing and the cost of rent and housing astronomical, it is time that we achieve the Living Wage. “Government has the wherewithal to take this decision through legislation and there is no need for them to hide behind any commission. “The lowest paid in society suffered most during the last recession.

INSULT TO INJURY “To add insult to injury, we had this FF, FG, Green Party Government agree to add 10 advisers for Junior Ministers. “These will be paid between €67,000 and €78,000 a year. Advisers are for Ministers and Junior Ministers paid between €87,000 to €101,000 a year. Minister Helen McEntee of FG defended the move on the basis that these Ministers ‘are making decisions that impact on thousands if not hundreds of thousands of people’s lives’. “That is a serious over statement of these Junior Ministers’ importance but how does the Government square that with standing by a miserly 10cent increase for workers? “Ironically the FG Government Minister made her statement at an event aimed at raising awareness to the damage fireworks can cause at Hallowe’en. “The Minister should prepare herself for further fireworks in the Dáil when its position on the Minimum Wage and their cutting of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment continues to be raised.”

Kilkenny Soccer Fixtures SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 Henderson Shield (2.30) Callan v Freebooters; Lions v Highview Athletic

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 (11AM) Evergreen B v Fort Rangers; Stoneyford v Evergreen C; East End A v Callan A

DIVISION 2 (2.30 UNLESS STATED) Castlewarren Celtic v Ballacolla; Freshford Town v Lions 11am; River Rangers v Spa United, 11am; Thomastown B v Highview B DIVISION 3 (11AM UNLESS STATED) Brookville v Deen Celtic B; Evergreen 46 v Newpark B; Spa B v East End B 2.30; St John’s v St Canice’s 11am; Tullaroan v Callan B 2.30

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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Ball of malt and Michael O’Dwyer’s book Review by Jimmy Rhatigan the rest of us enjoy. Lady Desart, aka Ellen BischoffT’S a fascinating journey down sheim, was eldest daughter of a Memory Lane, Talbot’s Inch wealthy Jewish London Banker. She married William Cuffe, the Village to be precise, on the periphery of our city, with a focus fourth Earl of Desart in 1881 and on Lady Desart and Otway Cuffe. came here to live in Desart Court, A book just published by a large estate near Callan. O’Dwyer Books, College Gardens, written by Michael O’Dwyer, is DARLING PUBLICATION exactly what we would expect Her brother-in-law Otway Cuffe from a great historian, top class who also features prominently writer on other times in particular in this darling of a publication became Mayor of our city. and avid fan of his native city. Lady Desart, after whom our Michael who is also the author of the History of Cricket in pedestrian and cycle bridge County Kilkenny and Shopping across the Nore opposite Dunnes in Kilkenny has always been a Stores, St Kieran’s Street was great man for detail, accuracy, named, was a philanthropist and and has a canny notion of what entrepreneur, a lover of arts, edu-

cation and many sports, but most of all she was an appreciator of human beings. Among her projects was a suspension bridge at Talbot’s Inch; Kilkenny Woollen Mills on the Bleach Road and Desert Hall, New Street, still positively used by Kilkenny youth. Otway founded Kilkenny Woodworkers, joined the Gaelic League and was elected Mayor in 1907 and 1908. Ellen eventually moved from Callan to Talbot’s Inch off our Freshford Road where she built a home which she called Aut Even House. Ellen and Otway became generous benefactors as they

Business must prepare for Brexit

the country and if you are trading in, out or through the United Kingdom you need to ensure you complete one of these.” “Businesses should not stop there though. While Brexit can be viewed as a threat, it is also an opportunity for savvy business owners. “Leo supports such as Lean for Micro and the Technical Assistance for Micro Exporting (TAME) grant, give small businesses the chance to maximise their potential and also see what new markets can be exploited to increase revenue streams outside of the UK. “Our Autumn training programme also includes an Advanced Management Development programme, which will run over a 10-week period towards year end and will afford participants a chance to focus on their business needs.” “Get in touch with us on 0567752662 or info@leo.kilkennycoco.ie Full details of all Leo assistance in relation to Brexit can be SAVVY OWNERS BEST PREPARED “The new phase of Customs found on www.localenterprise. The programme will prepare businesses for trade outcomes, Workshops is rolling out across ie/kilkenny. FTER an already challenging year for companies, small businesses are being urged to refocus their minds on Brexit ahead of the December 31 deadline. Irrespective of what happens in talks between the UK and the EU, the transition period expires and that will change Ireland’s trading position with the UK. This means any business that export or import with or through the UK will be affected and will have to change their processes. Kilkenny County Council’s Local Enterprise Office (Leo) is calling on all small businesses to check their Brexit readiness and if in doubt, to reach out. As part of its suite of Brexit preparedness services, Leo is running its ‘Prepare Your Business for Customs’ workshop, open to all small businesses. Courses are scheduled for October 7 and November 16. Bookings: www.localenterprise. ie/kilkenny.

ie if the UK leaves with a trade agreement or if it leaves without one, ensuring companies are best prepared for both scenarios. A Brexit supports webinar is scheduled for October 2 with expert one-to-one Brexit Advisory clinics on October 7 and November 11, also open for booking via www.localenterprise/ kilkenny. Businesses are reminded that at any stage they can avail of expert one-to-one mentoring to address their specific Brexit needs through a one-to mentoring programme. Fiona Deegan, Head of Enterprise said Businesses cannot ignore Brexit just because it has been a particularly difficult year to date. “Small businesses should not avoid their preparation for this, because the effects may be critical for them. “The good news is that you have the time to ensure you are ready.

There are great records founded a marvellous theatre in of those who lived in TalPatrick Street, Kilkenny in 1902. bot’s Inch at different times and what is perLEGAL WRANGLING We could go on and on but at haps more interesting this juncture that would be was the legal wrangling a great book spoiled, not by over many more great plagiarism but by too much places and establishments owned by Ellen, information. A tidy 64-page read, the book after she died. A Ball of Malt also has a series of black and white and colour pictures of in one hand and yesteryear, interesting people, Michael O’Dwyer’s curious places and amazing book in the other. Now there’s buildings. It will be of particular interest Heaven on Earth. The book is great to anyone who may have had ancestors living in Talbot’s Inch value at €10 and at any time and indeed those is on sale in local bookshops. living there today.

RIVALS IN SPORT ARE MATES IN LOVE

Bulmers thumbs up for Pub of Year

RIVALS in hurling are the best of buddies in love

Bulmers Ireland MD Tom McCusker presents Pat Crotty of Paris Texas with a specially commissioned painting of the bar in recognition of winning the Pub of the Year

hat’s the lot of Kilkenny woman Audrey Byrne and son of Tipperary Eddie Corbett who got engaged recently. The couple who live at Robertshill on the periphery of Kilkenny City plan to tie the knot in 18 months time.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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World study revolution starts here F

OR THE first time in Ireland and the world, a revolutionary performancebased study app called EKKER, developed in Kilkenny will enable students to improve how they approach studying, based on real time data. The app created by two Kilkenny brothers and teaching professionals, Carl and John Lynch, is set to change forever the way students learn. The new E-learning technology removes the guesswork of study and provides students with real time data, allowing them to predict their performance, and identify the changes necessary to see improved academic results. CEO and co-founder John Lynch told The Kilkenny Observer: “Academic study is the one area which has followed a very traditional path and unlike other areas, such as sport, has not moved into this digital and performance-led space. “We’ve seen first-hand how un-motivating unguided study is and we wanted to provide a system that will help students eliminate guesswork and deliver real performance-led data. “Our students go into exams knowing what they know – the performance follows.” NEW EDUCATION ERA Over 370,000 secondary school students across Ireland are returning to school this academic year, in which is a new term like no other. The Covid-19 pandemic has emphasised the importance of embracing new systems with

Co-inventor, Carl Lynch

enhanced technology. A recent study conducted by Amárach Research indicated that Ireland has seen an increase of 52% in connected devices, over the past six months during lockdown. This signifies our reliance on technological supports, and currently, there is no other study performance app on the market, that offer what EKKER can provide for students. The introduction of EKKER

to the app market will bring the education system into the new era enhancing performance by delivering content, tracking progress, and analysing data to empower individual learning and ensuring zero study waste and maximum efficiency. Users will be able to monitor, review and adjust study patterns whilst forming new study habits leading to better results and improved performance. EKKER’s key features include:

• Study Now – Select your subject, start your study, and rate your session when you finish. With a glance, see your subject’s average rating, the number of quality minutes you have studied and what subjects need more attention. • Study History – Allows you to see how you rated past study sessions, compare length of time studied across each subject and accurately measure study output – the first ‘fitness tracker’ for study. • Study Stats – Analyse your study patterns with graphs and data to encourage students to improve performance to attain higher grades. Benefit from peer to peer analysis of real data from other students. • My Study Club – Share your study streak, your cumulative time of quality study and the length of your average study session with a select group of your friends – be competitive or be supportive but be together. • Wellness Hub– An entire area dedicated to student wellbeing. With blogs and vlogs to help you with student specific exercise, nutrition, along with study skills, subject help and career advice ensuring you are in the best possible condition to perform, both physically and mentally. • Grade Estimator – An estimation from previous exam results and study on what your

Student study app

end grade will be, along with a handy points calculator to see what you need to target. • Exam Papers – A complete set of previous exam papers in every subject and at every level. • Live Classes – Access to streamed live free educational classes and, as an additional inapp purchase, subject grinds. EKKER’s real strength lies in the data that it analyses. It offers

each user the ability to make informed decisions around his or her study, based on real data, to ensure that students make the right choices. The app is now is available from the Android Play Store and Apple App Store – download now for a free 10-day trial. The app costs €4.99 a month or a discounted price of €45 for a year.

Changing up training to change up your results Eoin Everard Physiotherqphy AEROBIC CAPACITY Do one longer run at a slower pace than normal. Doing a longer run than HIS ARTICLE is all about vary- the distance you intend to race is a ing the stress we apply to our great way to increase your aerobic body. capacity. If I run or work out at the same inAerobic capacity simply is your tensity, for the same amount of time ability to use the oxygen you take in all the time do you think I will con- when you exercise. tinue to improve? No. Doing longer sessions can help inYour body gets used to the training crease your ability to use oxygen more or stress you apply to the body. efficiently when you run, which will How does this apply to your train- help you a lot in the shorter distances. ing? Well most people, like my friends Do one shorter distance run at a in Newcastle tend to start by doing the ‘one sentence’ pace. This is a rough same training again and again. introduction to what we call tempo They run the same distance at the runs. same pace every time they train. This is roughly the pace you would They wonder why after a few races run a 10k (if you are fitter this might be more half marathon pace). they keep getting the same results. What I mean by ‘one sentence’ We need to change up the training pace is this, you should run at a pace type to change up the results. Don’t keep putting the same stress where if you were talking to a person on the body. Vary it and your fitness you would be able to say one sentence before you would have to get will come on leaps and bounds. I will discuss three training types your breath. If you are on a run and you can talk that I think will really help. Here is a simple template for a person doing continuously on this run, you are not running hard enough. three 10k (six mile) runs per week.

TOO QUICKLY If you cannot talk at all due to having to breathe so hard, then you are going too quickly. I would recommend doing a very easy warm up jog of 10 minutes. Stretch. Then try 2 x 10 minutes at this tempo pace with two minutes between each 10 minute effort. Getting used to running hard for a prolonged period will really help you when racing at this pace. Finally, try to do one interval session per week. Interval sessions are sessions where you run shorter distances at quicker than race pace with a short recovery. Generally we can start with a 1:2 ratio. This is whatever time or distance we run hard for we have a break of the half that time or distance. The break that we take allows you to go quicker for each repetition than you could in a race. If you were used to running 10k in your runs, I would recommend maybe starting with five times 1000 metres.

CONTINUE GOOD PACE For simplicity, let’s say you can run a 10k race in 50 minutes. This is 1k in five minutes. Start by running 1k in five minutes and take a two and half minute rest afterwards. Repeat this four more times. If you feel the five minutes is a little too easy then move down to four minutes 50 seconds. Soon you will be running your K reps so much quicker than your race pace. By trying this type of training you will be so much more prepared for your 10k race. With the interval running, you will find the first few kilometres of the race slow because you are used to going a lot faster. You should be able to continue with your good pace near the end because you have been working on the longer runs also. This type of training is harder than just going out and doing the same thing over and over but I promise you it will give you better success in the races to come. For more articles visit Eoin Everard www.everardpilates.com

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

Sport––KEEPING KEEPINGIT ITLOCAL LOCAL News

Back: Darren O’Neill, Neal Prendergast, Richie Power, Niall Kennedy, Richie Dollard, John Tennyson, Sean Cummins, Sean Mahony, John Dalton, David Prendergast, Shane Prendergast, Kieran Joyce. Third Row: Adrian Finan (Manager) James Maher, David McCormack, T.J. Reid, Mark Aylward, Pat Hartley, Eamon Walsh, Donnacha Coady, Bill Beckett,Paddy Hogan , Austin Murphy, Matthew Ruth, Tom Doheny, Tom Hogan, Ger Fennelly. Second Row: Colin Grant, Damien Fogarty, Shane Cadogen, Liam Tierney, Michael Fennelly, Danny Loughnane, Peter Donovan, James Cha Fitzpatrick, Richie Hogan. Front: Gavin Nolan, Alan Healy, Martin Boran, John Broderick, Eddie O’Donoghue, Maurice Nolan.

Memory Lane with local hurling scribe Jim Fogarty 2006 U21 Final Replay Cats’ third title in four years Semple Stadium, Thurles Kilkenny 1-11, Tipperary 0-11

BIG attendance of 18,578 resulted in a 10-minute delay before throw-in. From the start, Kilkenny looked better prepared than for the drawn game. The pace was electric and there was no holding back from either side. Six minutes had elapsed before the first score which fell to Richie Ruth of Tipperary. Austin Murphy equalised. The Leinster champions led by two points at the end of the first quarter. Tipperary equalised through a Darragh Egan free and a Danny O’Hanlon point from play. In the 23rd minute Austin Murphy set up Paddy Hogan for the only goal of the final.

made an immediate impact with a point. Kilkenny led by three points at the end of the third quarter. Richie Power increased their lead to four when he converted a free from the side line. James Woodlock narrowed the gap with a point and a Darragh Egan free with 90 seconds remaining reduced the margin to two. Richie Hogan pointed for Kilkenny seconds into injury time. With time almost up, Woodlock was pulled to the ground.

TOO MANY BODIES Darragh Egan shot for the equalising goal from the free but there were too many bodies in the way. The referee immediately blew for full time. Quality hurling was evident all through. Kilkenny were slightly the better side. Austin Murphy, Richie Power and Paddy Hogan were very dangerous forwards. In defence, John Dalton was INJURY TIME outstanding and was the deKilkenny led at the interval by served the man of the match . 1-6 to 0-7. Cha Fitzpatrick and Michael Tipperary introduced Philip Fennelly won the midfield duel. Austin for the second half. He Tipp did not play as well as in

the drawn game but Gerry Kennedy, Paddy Stapleton, Conor O’Brien, Danny O’Hanlon, James Woodlock and pacy sub Philip Austin put in huge efforts. Referee: Brian Gavin, Offaly. Kilkenny scorers: Richie Power 0-6 (5fs), Austin Murphy 0-3, Paddy Hogan 1-0, James Cha Fitzpatrick 0-1, Richie Hogan 0-1. Tipperary scorers: Darragh Egan 0-5 (4fs), Philip Austin 0-2, Danny O’Hanlon 0-2, James Woodlock 0-1, Richie Ruth 0-1. Kilkenny: Liam Tierney (Rower/Inistioge), Kieran Joyce (Rower/Inistioge), John Tennyson (Carrickshock), Sean Cummins (Rower/Inistioge), Pat Hartley (Tullogher/ Rosbercon), John Dalton (Carrickshock), Damien Fogarty (Erin’s Own), James Cha Fitzpatrick(Ballyhale), Michael Fennelly (Ballyhale), captain, TJ Reid (Ballyhale), Austin Murphy (Clara), Paddy Hogan (Danesfort), Richie Hogan (Danesfort), Richie Power (Carrickshock), David McCormack (James Stephens). Subs: Alan Healyv(Conahy) for McCormack. Danny Loughnane (O’Loughlins), Eamon Walsh (Ballyhale), Eddie

O’Donoghue (Dicksboro), Bill Beckett (St Lachtain’s), Shane Cadogan(St Martin’s), Gavin Nolan(Conahy), Peter O’Donovan (Erin’s Own), Neal Prendergast (Clara). Tipperary: Gerry Kennedy (Killenaule), Paddy Stapleton (Borris-Ileigh), Alan Byrne (Shannon Rovers), Conor O’Brien (Annacarty), David Young (Toomevara), captain, Jim Bob McCarthy (Golden/ Kilfeacle), Sean Horan (St Patrick’s), James Woodlock (Drom&Inch), Stephen Lillis (Thurles Sars), Ryan O’Dwyer (Cashel), Niall Teehan (Gortnahoe/Glengoole), David Sheppard (Moycarkey/Borris), Richie Ruth (Thurles Sars), Danny O’Hanlon (Carrick Swans), Darragh Egan (Kildangan). Subs: Philip Austin (Borrisokane) for Sheppard. Kevin Lanigan (Carrick Swans) for Horan. Darragh Hickey (Boherlahan) for Teehan. Kevin Quinlan (Kilruane) for Lillis. Matthew Ryan (Templederry), Stephen Murphy (Kilruane), Joe Dixon (Moycarkey/ Borris), Ian Murphy (Killenaule), Ray McLoughney (Kilruane).

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 jimkfog1@gmail.com. or at 086-1512946.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

Sport – KEEPING IT LOCAL

Ballyhale Shamrocks oozes class as the ‘Boro fails to ignite JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

YMPATHY is the last thing that young Dicksboro will want following their disappointing senior hurling final showing against three-in-a-row champs Ballyhale Shamrocks. Sometimes it is better to shut your mouth rather than to open it and insert a foot. This is one of those occasions. The ‘Boro players will feel the hurt, the pain, not brought about by their defeat by Shamrocks but by the manner in which they were humbled by the best senior hurling force in Ireland. We can focus our attentions on the ‘Boro, with respect, the bomb that never exploded but we must also doff our hats to James O’Connor’s merry men who were absolutely meticulous from A to Z. Watching them dismantle the city club with a cruel military-like precision that meant they dominated in practically every sector for the full 60 minutes was awesome and somewhat cruel. SUNDAY ROASTING It will be of little consolation to the losers, but reality is that the Shamrocks would have swept away the challenge of any other club in the country with the Sunday roasting that they dished up at the weekend. Young supporters watching the game on TV should have learned a lot. For the Ballyhale display was a masterclass of the beautiful game, a razor sharp performance of skill, vision, know how, and a radar-like performance of playing as a team. To write off this ‘Boro side that so many people were raving about on its way to the big match would be inconsiderate, unfair and utterly reckless. Dicksboro have many terrific players, young stars who could still be around as veteran heroes. If they committed a sin on Sun-

day it would most certainly not be considered a mortal one. It would at best, or worst, depending on your outlook, be a venial one. THE REAL ‘BORO It had nothing to do with lack of skill, lack of courage, commitment or lack of loyalty to a club that all of them would die for. Without being patronising, one would suggest that their only fault in the big match was that the real ‘Boro failed to show. Earlier games will have taught us that the team is well drilled, has buckets of talent and as others will attest the side is well capable of seeing off the challenge of other clubs with ambitions. What happened to the maroon and white has been the lot of people in all walks of life since the time of Adam and Eve. Actors forget their lines, public speakers completely freeze and world class golfers die a death on the final fairway. Some ‘Boro supporters, in their disappointment, could blame their city rivals James Stephens for their predicament. And, with respect to The Village, the ‘Boro lads could make the claim with some justification. NEAR DISASTER After the semi-finals we suggested that Shamrocks brush with near disaster against a super James Stephens could make life tougher for Dicksboro as alarm bells would ring for Ballyhale’s greatest ambassadors. It did not take a connoisseur of the game to come to that conclusion. There are times when common sense can be a very obvious quality. It turns out that Shamrocks, as well as being master hurlers are also good at taking a hint. They knew well that their win over Stephens was a skin of their teeth affair and they were well aware too that Dicksboro had the wherewithal to steal their thunder. Ballyhale acted accordingly,

rolled up their sleeves and vowed that their final performance would be nothing other than their brilliant best. The writing was on the wall from early on and by the first water break after 16 minutes the South Kilkenny lads were 1-6 to 0-2 in front. STARTING TO SINK But for ‘Boro goalkeeper Darragh Holohan the damage could have been worse and the very alert and brave ‘keeper went on to give a Herculean display. Early on the Good Ship Dicksboro was letting in water. By half time it was starting to sink as Shamrocks mercilessly torpedoed their defences. It was 2-9 to 0-7 at half time and even the most passionate of ‘Boro supporters knew that hopes of any renaissance were slim. It is nigh impossible to halt a juggernaut in top gear. And that is exactly what the Ballyhale team was as firing on all cylinders it proceeded to dish out a hurling lesson. It got worse for the ‘Boro as Fr Time ticked at a pace that may have appeared to be tantalisingly slow in the eyes of ‘Boro fans. The champs had no intention of pulling the brakes as they sped towards a deserved hat-trick. It ended 5-19 to 1-10. In defeat, Dicksboro was brittle but gracious.

TRUE COLOURS In time they may avenge this defeat and show their true colours. The only disappointment for Shamrocks has to be that because of the Coronavirus Pandemic there is no club championship. Hurling experts would no doubt tip the family club that truly is a hurling giant to add another na-

35 kilkennyobserver.ie The Kilkenny Observer Friday

18 September 2020

Sport – KEEPING IT LOCAL

e Stephens alarm bells mak er ugh ‘Boro’s final tilt much to

would have that has sur- eternal reward,mortem after a a post to the net Kilkenny team tick with him popping the 37th vived the most contrary of enjoyed mping Village effort provide the names that trophies. heart-thu from a tight angle in Even the dogs in the street the boxes. left seas to land a shoal of guiles was pipped at the post. their minute the Gaels were may have abandoned But for the wiles and Sunday’s final, a clash was billed as a squarnext The of to task So tough indoors the stay Fennelly to with may have lamp post loos City standof county stars Colin cour- 50/50 fight. Some could Deep South versus ing a circle. for a few hours of class, all and TJ Reid an SOS at any off. fancied O’Loughlin Gaels The ‘Boro was firing on ced age and magic. have been sounded because of its experien The ‘ifs’ and ‘buts’ will keep EDITOR cylinders. up stage. hands, notably Paddy Deegan hurling lovers in chat right MASTER CLASSES UPMC Nowlan Park and its steely and rather mean STEPHENS REVELATION the to ADLY, it won’t cure master were Both matches of a DON’T DO PANIC be defence. throw-in. Coronavirus but the The Gaels reminded classes in how sport should of In half two highly charged filled game of hurling has to be group of willing lads who went oh so highlighted a feast warriors played, Village CIRCLE A health. G forgot ALARM SOUNDED a cuppa but talent SQUARIN good for our mental risked hard a kettle for are experienced and rookie close to upsetting the hurling Only a fool would risk his or At a time when so many amazing Others perhapsthe ‘Boro who to turn on the gas. of a and featured many applecart. earned cash on her house or even a secondgripped in fear because Game No. 1 was an aficiod Between them Colin Fenour goals and goalkeeping. lawnmower on a game from an early stage reminde pandemic that restricts us The first match between of a sweet flowing river that nado’s delight. proved to be nelly and TJ Reid scored 3-13, handcould or might, or whatactivities and even locks Game No. 2 ro and O’Loughlin for e contribution that admire Dicksbo handsom and a enjoy sit to roast could battle one a ever end a particular way. g down, it was fantastic a tasty hurling Sunday any team performance, nal Gaels was a ding dong for hours. to sensatio two . of The ‘Boro will be champin Saturday boost a who the eventually served on semi- of city neighbours cks foundation that O’Loughlin Gaels team was bit. Shamro e the at Ballyhal county senior hurling from ck Nifty noisy. not as to once were saved Ship Shamro good, although maybe not It has the ammunition finals. opened in whirlwind fashion landing on the rocks. That its But unlike some derby ties had been. the undisputed was The games were a breath in many sports, it was not a impressive as it and after only 22 minutes do panic was a gun downof club hurling. n, The ‘Boro was poetry in mo- in cruise control as the score- players don’t m at of fresh air, rattling televisio who high kings slap, bang, wallop, stop ‘e of fresh air that huge plus for Shamrocks mean that breath a y, the ‘Boro’s auld games tion, 0-6. Ironicall ing to 2-8 a spirit-lift board read and with all costs affair. the throw-in signalled its Sham- steadied the boat the hopes enemy James Stephens may from ship qualgood the thousands can now savour against But off to It was quality forthe alarm late rally waved intention of winning a ticket positive vibes as they look was to hit choppy wateam just have sounded ity, beautiful moves, brilliant the lotto of local rocks at the finish life buoys of a stout-hearted Village all clock for Shamrocks and its ward to the county final. al- stick work, superb goals and the big one, ters and e etched acvessel that has brillianc hurling. crew will be reminded inAt a time when it is not at were at the ready as theunder. over it. TV magnificent points. The teams were together have gone of cordingly. In other words, ways exciting to watch Individuals whose names How the members Dicksboro had could easily of stealing its thunder, stead Stephens was a revsport because of the absence may not be well known in the half time. But and made the Philly James aka s’ Corner, cks tion, its young, brave and Speakers forecourt in Patrick Stephens did the Shamro will surely a sharper edge own. of spectator participa time elation, this at game sters, side Larkin’ of the driving wheel its the ‘semis’ were blockbu tremendously talented gone to their a favour. dis- be household names When a trick o’ the loop turning the screw on a South Street, who have albeit financial box office be- future. move by Eddie Nolan ended appointments for the GAA The experts will no doubt cause of a Covid ban on fans. JIMMY RHATIGAN

g from our last editio

We called it - A clippin

tional title to its long list of successes. On Saturday, Lisdowney and Thomastown served up a sensational thunder ‘n’ lightning game that ended in disappointment for the ‘Town, their second setback in successive seasons. The St Canice’s Credit Union senior final was prob-

ably a blip rather than a crash for Dicksboro. After the final whistle, Ballyhale reminded that the squad was dashing home to their village to meet the young hurlers and camogie stars of their parish. Therein lay a hint of why the club continues to rule the hurling world.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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All pics: Danny Lahart

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2 October 2020

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‘Till death do us part: JIMMY RHATIGAN EDITOR

OT EVERYONE may have heard of the barefooted man of the road who found a sandal. The belief may be that such a wayfarer has nothing going for him, nowhere to call home, no regular meals, no family to love. But in the case of our shabbily-clad friend he was blessed with the qualities of positivity, patience, courage and good humour. “Poor man,” said a woman who offered him alms, “did you lose a sandal?” “No ma’am,” he said, with a grin, “I found one.” Somehow, after years of hobbling with one shod-foot only, he luckily stumbled on a comrade sandal. The tale has miracle connotations. The nomad’s admirable qualities may have helped him to achieve a marvellous feat. The gladiators of Lisdowney GAA may know exactly how the sandal man felt. The club lost a senior hurling boot 60 years ago but with the patience of Job, the courage of a pride of lions and the fire of a

wounded warrior fighting for his life in a Roman Colosseum, its Herculean-like braves found the second boot last Saturday. The prize, akin to winning The Euro Millions, was the Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate Hurling Final silverware. But even more importantly, there was a return to senior hurling for Lisdowney, back playing with the big boys after six decades in a hurling wilderness as a renaissance had to be a craving. DING DONG BATTLE Lisdowney’s opponent in a ‘till death do us part battle of wits was a Thomastown team that had fallen at the final hurdle last year and had boomeranged with a vengeance. An OK Corral confined to 200 spectators because of Covid19 turned out to be a ding dong battle worthy of a full house of 27,000. A game that opened nervously, soon flashed into an at times scrappy but hotly contested eyeball to eyeball dinger. Slight favourites Thomastown seemed to have the edge. ‘Town players were more comfortable on the ball and at the end of a tit for tat first half it was 0-8 apiece. At this stage the ticket to the top tier of the local game was, like Bob Dylan’s famous song, Blowin’ in the Wind.

Lisdowney, back in senior hurling

Kavanagh were aided and abetted by comrades with the fighting qualities of the supposed 300 Spartans who defended the Pass of Thermopylae in 480 BC. It was as if the lives of the hurling heroes depended on the outcome. Some would say that it was a battle of life and death. Others might argue that it was more important than that. Lisdowney’s Pat O’Carroll looked to be bunched, all set to be carried to the side-line when injury struck. FEISTY COMBATANTS He was proof positive that old Any scout from the movies look- soldiers are prepared to die with ing for a modern day Spartacus, their boots on. Cú Chulainn or Brian Boru could have taken his or her pick from NAIL GNAWING two of the games bravest sets of His contribution in nail-gnawing feisty combatants. final stages was heroic. With seven minutes to go and John Donnelly was a giant the teams level at 0-15 the game among men for Thomastown, was belching flames. superbly skilled, brave. Sweating supporters must At the end of second half inhave generated enough electric- jury time Thomastown looked ity to light up Thomastown and like escaping to victory. Lisdowney bailwicks. The fat was in the fire. The immediate audience was The score-line reminded of the tiny but those glued to stream- revolution in our country. ing services and anxious radio It was 19 points to 16 with the ears from all corners of the world ‘Town in pole position. meant that the spectacle had Thomastown had to be cockalready garnered blockbuster a-hoop as the Fat Lady cleared status. her throat. Men of war such as the heavily Then with the kick of a dying bandaged Pat O’Carroll, Robbie horse a stubborn Lisdowney reand John Donnelly and Brian naissance was capped by a late, The pendulum could have swung either way but the most likely direction could have favoured wind-aided Thomastown. Both clubs now had fire in their bellies. At the second half water break it was 0-12 each. It went to 13 apiece as the heat reached furnace levels. It was as hard to tear apart two talented and spirited hurling foes as it would be to separate a romantic Tom Cat from his sweetheart.

when Lisdowney goalkeeper Liam Dunphy had his puck saved by his opposite number Dermot Galway. The teams were still locked together. The potentially cruel killer of Sudden Death, a first cousin of the Grim Reaper would have the final say. Lisdowney missed. Liam Dunphy saved brilliantly for Lisdowney. Cathal Jordan scored for Lisdowney. So it was down two a face-toface between the goalkeepers. Thomastown’s Galway struck the sliotar well but wide and the party was over. Lisdowney had trailed Thomastown for all of normal and extra time but they led when it mattered, 4-3 after the penalty shoot-out. SEE-SAW STRUGGLE Hurling is a beautiful game. Brave heart Brian Kavanagh It can be cruel too. made up for his blip and contributed three points to a Lisdowney never-say-die splurge, including an edge of cliff equaliser to make it 1-23 each. So to a penalty shoot-out. It was a bit like playing a slot machine or Black Jack. Luck could be vital. The game became a lottery that included scored and saved penalties. There was a hint of how the see-saw struggle could end All pics: Danny Lahart late Cathal Jordan goal that with a full house would have endangered the foundations of Nowlan Park. In two periods of extra time, the game of hurling poker continued to addle and tease. Thomastown led 0-23 to 1-18 at the end of the first period of a marathon final fling. Lisdowney had never led. Then came what could have been the difference between success and failure. Brian Kavanagh missed a free. As if to add insult to injury, Thomastown stormed up field and won a penalty, drilled home by Robbie Donnelly. The ‘Town appeared to have crushed stubborn resilience. It was 1-23 to1-18 with the clock ticking.

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Hurling is beautiful and cruel

History is made as a missed penalty catapults Lisdowney to victory

Thomastown: Pipped at the post

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