01CPT2025-01-22

‘No decision has yet been made regarding the future use’ of the Clonmel Friary ...

...but it must close immediately?

Following on from a statement the Tipp Echo published last week on behalf of the Francisan Order, below is a statement sent to us for publication this week, by Joe McCormack, on behalf of the Abbey House of Prayer.

The ongoing controversy over the sudden December announcement of the closure of the beloved Friary in Abbey Street continues.

While the Franciscans issued a statement indicating that there are ‘no plans’ for the future use of the Church building, they are following what appears to be an urgent process to ensure its closure. It is hoped that this closure will not lead to a long period of abandonment of the building and possible deterioration.

A large group of supporters gathered at the Church on Friday 17th January to express support for the continued operation of the Church as a place of prayer and a Sit-in protest continues at the

Church. Many local elected representatives attended including the Mayor of Clonmel, local TDs and Borough Councillors.

Asked for comment, Pat O’Gorman, Manager of the Abbey House or Prayer, pointed out that some statements recently released by the Franciscans were not representative of all the facts. While it is correct that the Committee were given notice of the proposed closure in October 2024, they were requested to keep the matter confidential and not inform the congregation or the general public.

The public notice followed seven weeks later on December 20 and only gave 10 days’ public notice of closure. The reason for the level of confidentiality and keeping the matter from the public eye has not

been made clear. However, it is difficult to understand why there is such a haste to close a Church if there are no plans for its use.

The former residence of the Franciscans in Abbey Street has recently been converted into accommodation for refugees and is being managed by their property company.

Apart from the significance of the Church as a place of spiritual rest for the wider Clonmel community, the Friary has significant heritage value. It includes the historic Butler Tomb and the 13th Century Tower which are listed for preservation.

It is hoped that mediation will be proposed soon and will reflect and respect the wishes of the Clonmel community.

I, John Maguire intend to apply for retention permission for development that consists of works, that may or may not require planning permission, to a house listed in the Record of Protected Structures of the Tipperary Town & Environs Development Plan 2013 located at 6 Saint Michaels Street, Tipperary Town, Tipperary E34 F535. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

We, Blanco Nino Ltd., intend to apply to the above authority for (a) planning permission for retention of the existing storage containers, water tanks & lean-to structures, (b) permission to construct an extension to the existing unit and (c) permission for increasing the site area, relocating the entrance, construction of new underground services and new site layout and parking arrangements, including all associated site development works at Carrigeen Business Park, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

David & Steven Tierney intends to apply to Tipperary County Council for Permission to construct (i) slatted shed with loose area (ii) Walled Manure area and all associated site works at Bannixtown, Cloneen, Fethard, Co. Tipperary .The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours.A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed by : Aidan Kelly (ADPS) Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211)

John and David O’ Gorman of Drumlummin Diaries partnership intends to apply to Tipperary County Council for Permission to construct (i) Cubicle shed with underground slurry tanks and all associated site works at Drumlummin, Clogheen, Co Tipperary. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours.A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed by : Aidan Kelly (ADPS) Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211)

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Powerstown/ Lisronagh Comhaltas to host Fleadh Cheoil

Thiobraid Arann

Saturday & Sunday, 17th & 18th May

POWERSTOWN/LISRONAGH COMHALTAS is pleased to announce that the Branch is hosting the 2025 County Tipperary Fleadh/ Fleadh Cheoil Thiobraid Arann, in Clonmel, in collaboration with the Tipperary Co. Board. The CountyFleadh will take place the weekend of 17th and 18th May 2025 in the Gaelcholáiste, Clonmel.

Over the weekend, hundreds of musicians, their families and friends will arrive to Clonmel to participate in the opening ceremony, competitions, session trails and gig rig.

In the run-up to the Fleadh, as well as during the Fleadh, there will be many events for the people of Clonmel and surrounding areas to enjoy. These include a workshop titled Scoil Fonn agus Amhran, an art competition for primary schools with the theme ‘Traditional Irish Music, a singing circle event, dramaiocht competition for primary schools and a music for all event that is inclusive of neurodivergent individuals within our community. The committee also hopes to have a gig rig at the Plaza where people can come and soak up some Irish music.

The County Board are delighted to see the County Fleadh return to South Tipperary and to Clonmel which was the home of many successful All Ireland Fleadhanna over the years (1992-1994, 2003 and 2004).

SEEKING MUSICIANS AND VOLUNTEERS

Powerstown/Lisronagh branch are looking to the people of Clonmel and surrounding areas to support them in their endeavour by participating in the various events of the Fleadh Cheoil, many of which are free of charge. They will also be seeking volunteers the weekend of the competitions to help steward the event so that it runs smoothly and safely.

The official souvenir programme will include the programme of events as well as articles of historical and musical significance. If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Fleadh programme please email powerstown@comhaltas.net. In addition, the branch will be asking local businesses to support by sponsoring an advertisement in the souvenir programme and to participate in creating shop window displays.

On Sunday, 12th January, members of Powerstown/Lisronagh Comhaltas branch met and nominees were proposed for the Fleadh Committee, who will be officially elected at the Inaugral Fleadh meeting with the Co Board Committee which takes place on this coming Friday, 24th January at 8.15 pm in Ss Peter and St Paul’s primary school. All branch members welcome.

FONDNESS OF ALL-IRELAND FLEADHANNA REMEMBERED

Chairperson of Powerstown/Lisronagh Comhaltas, Roisin Egan, said’ We are looking forward to hosting other branches from North and South Tipperary here in Clonmel for Fleadh Cheoil Chontae Thiobraid Arann. Many people of Clonmel remember with fondness the years the All- Ireland Fleadhanna were hosted by this branch. The County Fleadh is definitely not on the same scale, nevertheless the branch is hoping that it will be a fun and memorable event for the town of Clonmel with lots of ceoil agus craic’. If anyone is interested in supporting Fleadh Cheoil Thiobraid Arann in Clonmel by volunteering, sponsoring, or writing an article for the programme please email us on Powerstown@comhaltas. net.

GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE

Busy birdfeeders

The bird feeders have been very busy for the last few weeks as the mercury rarely got above freezing many days during the snow. My garden is at the end of a deep valley and frost can linger for days. While gardens lower down can have daffodils in flower mine are at least five weeks behind.

We have been taking part in Birdwatch Ireland Winter Graden Bird Survey and recording the peak number of different species that we see each week. With the cold snap our regular pair of blue tits have been joined by another pair, and the chaffinch population has almost double in size.

These are being well fed on a diet of nuts, seeds and fat balls but there is still plenty of squabbling between the great and blue tits for the best place on the feeders. After a winter truce the breeding energy is starting to flow, and we heard the strident territorial calls of a great tit on a recent walk through the village. I have not seen any coal tits, but this species was never common in my garden during the winter but comes during the spring and the summer. There could be a local inter migration down the hills through the long-wooded valley to warmer and better sources of food.

The chaffinches get seeds on

the ground and occasionally a dunnock will shuffle out from cover and with a constantly flicking tail eat seeds. Another cold weather visitor is the pied wagtail. They appear in winter and will be gone by spring. The male looks particularly beautiful in spring with deep black and white plumage.

Rooks and jackdaws are plentiful and there is a wary pair of hooded crows, but they are starting to trust us a little. Magpies come down after the cat has finished eating and they devour any leftover cat food.

Blackbirds like grated cheese but have to battle with the robins. Another favorite food for

the thrushes is sliced up apples. The real stars are the beautiful goldfinches and charms of these have been visiting the bird feeders for the last week. They love nyger seeds but can be can take over and quite very entertaining and quarrelsome.

As natural food runs out in the countryside and the cold bites the siskins arrive. I had my first on New Year’s Day but again these are only passing through as will soon head of into the valley for nesting. Comments/ Questions to albert. nolan@rocketmail.com or 089 430502. Albert is also available to do walks/talks with schools, tidy towns, youth and community groups.

Birdwatch Outing on Saturday

Birdwatch Ireland is a voluntary organisation that promotes the welfare of birds and their habitats. Its members’ knowledge and expertise are sought in many areas of conservation. Outings and talks are organised to inform the public.

To this end the Tipperary Branch have organised an outing to Ashton’s Callows which is outside Birr on Sunday next, 26th January.

It’s a vast area of wetland and is the wintering grounds for thousands of geese, ducks, swans and waders. The outing is open to everyone. Meet at the old gates of Birr Castle at 11am. People will need to carpool from there to the MSM Metals building where there is limited parking. We will have to walk about a kilometre and a half from there to the hide. Please bring lunches. Wear wellies and suitable weather gear.

Children must be accompa-

Wetlands are no longer seen as wasteland but are valued for their biodiversity, their role in flood control and water purification. Photo by Eamon Brennan nied by an adult. If you have binoculars or a scope please bring them along. Members will be glad to share theirs so that everyone can enjoy the bird spotting.

Male Siskin

Comhaltas Powerstown Lisronagh Fleadh Committee 2025: Left to right: Siobhán Hahessy (PRO), Darragh Egan (Youth Officer), Róisín Egan (Chairperson), Mary Prenderville (Treasurer) and Norma Hurley (Secretary). Missing from photo is Martin Keane, Vice-Chairman.

Uisce Eireann’s €10m upgrade of Glenary Water Treatment Plant has commenced

The following is the latest update on ongoing works as part of the Clonmel Water Supply Upgrade Project which have now resumed along the R689 Fethard Road.

Please note that site investigation works will also take place on Dillon Street and Thomas Street on Wednesday, 22nd and Thursday, 23rd January from 6pm-11pm.

We will continue to provide you with these updates on a routine basis as this project progresses and you are welcome to

share them with your members. We’re also pleased to inform you that Uisce Éireann has announced the commencement of a €10 million upgrade to the Glenary Water Treatment Plant. The project will result in 5,000 homes and businesses in Clonmel and surrounding areas being able to enjoy a more secure and resilient water supply. As part of these works, the installation of 1.3 km of new water main to connect the Glenary plant to the reservoir will begin along the L5096 Kilcomma

Road, Co Waterford in the coming weeks, with the plant upgrade commencing in February.

The project is being carried out by Ward & Burke on behalf of Uisce Éireann and is expected to be completed in 2026.

For more details on this project, please see our website, www. water.ie

If you have any questions or require further details on these projects, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

The Clonmel Water Supply Project Team

Location Start Date End Date Planned Works Traffic Management Fethard Road Mid-Sept 2024 Ongoing Pipeline installation Traffic management will be in place alongside local and pedestrian access

Thomas Street & 22nd January 23rd January Site investigation Traffic management Dillon Street Night Works Night Works works will be in place

18.00-23.00 18.00-23.00 alongside local and pedestrian access

Monroe water supply upgrade underway

Uisce Éireann is progressing works to improve the security and resilience of the water supply in Clonmel.

The project represents a multi-million-euro investment in water infrastructure and will have many benefits for Clonmel and surrounding areas including a safer and more resilient water supply, as well as strategic infrastructure to support current and future growth and development in the area.

Shareridge is delivering the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann and the overall project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Works involve an upgrade to the treatment facilities at Monroe Water Treatment Plant (WTP); the installation of 15km of new water mains, as well as upgrades to the Rathronan Pump Station which will connect the Monroe supply to the Clonmel North Reservoir and Poulavanogue network. It will address water quality risks for customers on the town’s Poulavanogue supply.

Areas of work will be limited

to short sections to minimise impact on customers. To deliver the works safely and efficiently, traffic management will be required. This information will be shared with local stakeholders and the community. Local and emergency traffic will al-

ways be maintained.

The works may involve some short-term water interruptions and the project team will ensure that customers are given a minimum of 48 hours’ notice prior to any planned water interruptions.

STAG Notes

Junior STAG Art recommenced last Saturday, 18th January with a 5 week Art Course. A few places are still available in both sections, Primary, age 9 years to 6th Class and Seniors , 1st Year to Leaving Cert. Contact the Organiser STAG at 0868096823

The STAG Adult Artists are back in Ss. Peter and Paul’s Infant School’s Art Room on Tuesday nights, 7.30 pm to 9.30 pm. and Wednesdays from10.30am to 12.30 pm., in the Studio, in the Arts Centre, Nelson Street, Clonmel. New members are always welcome.

The criteria to join is to have a knowledge of Painting/Drawing etc., or have an Art Course or two completed as we don’t use a Tutor at STAG sessions.

Congrats. to Vinny Burke and Deirdre Burke who sold Artwork from the Showgrounds Shopping Centre at Christmastime. Many of the Artwork has been changed in the Outpatient’s Corridor in Tipperary University Hospital and new Artwork has been hung in the Consultant’s Waiting room also. For any info or to buy a STAG Artwork, contact 086-8096823.

Clonmel Community Choir returns for Spring Term

CLONMEL COMMUNITY

CHOIR is delighted to announce its return on Wednesday nights for the spring term, welcoming both returning members and newcomers alike. Under the energetic musical direction of Kate Twohig, the choir gathers each week to sing in a fun, social, and inclusive setting.

The choir was inspired by the many community ensembles formed for recent theatrical successes, including the 2023 blockbuster From Out The Land and the 2021 Irish outdoor premiere of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, both musically directed by Twohig. Building on this spirit of community and joy, the choir was officially established in January 2024, offering an open-door policy to bring music and connection to people of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Open to everyone over the age of 16 — from seasoned singers to those with no prior experience — the choir invites you to join them on Wednesday, 29th January, at 7:30 pm in the CTI Hall (Gaelcholáiste Chéitinn) on The Mall for a free, no-commitment Open Night

The group made its debut last November, performing to a packed audience in the familiar CTI Hall. Over 50 members stood strong in song that evening, delivering a heartfelt performance that laid the foundation for the choir’s bright future. As they look to build on this success in 2025, Clonmel Community Choir continues to embody a non-competitive ethos, welcoming all without audi-

tions. This inclusive approach has helped many members find their confidence, flourish, and, most importantly, find their voice.

If you’re seeking a weekly outlet to lift your spirits and connect with like-minded people, this choir might be perfect for you. Join the Spring Term Open Night, free of charge, on Wednesday, 29th January, and

decide if you’d like to commit from there. Membership fees are at just €5 per week. Nights out, performance opportunities and community involvement are all perks of being a part of this fantastic and positive group. For more information, email clonmelcommunitychoir@ gmail.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram to stay up-to-date.

Step Up for Children’s Palliative Care with Laura

Lynn’s

‘150K in February’

LauraLynn Ireland’s Children’s Hospice invites people throughout County Tipperary to dust off their runners and challenge themselves to walk 150km throughout the month of February.

LauraLynn is asking the public to take on the sponsored challenge, walking, jogging or running about 5.5km per day in February. The challenge is an important fundraiser for the Children’s Hospice supporting children with life-limiting conditions and their families.

LauraLynn Fundraising Executive Cathy White commented:

“Taking part in the ‘150K in February’ challenge is a great way to get outdoors now that the evenings are getting longer. We are asking people to walk or run and just have some fun while raising much needed funds for LauraLynn. These funds will allow us to continue supporting children with palliative care needs and their families all over Ireland.”

To take part participants register on the LauraLynn website where they will receive a T-shirt, as

well as their own sponsorship page. Funds raised from the “150K in February” challenge will help LauraLynn provide essential care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families from across the country.

Whether you walk or run regularly, or are trying to get more active as part of your new year’s resolutions this challenge is for everyone.

Participants can share their experiences and photos on social media using the hashtag #TeamLauraLynn and join the dedicated Facebook group to connect with others taking part in the challenge. How to register

For more information or to register go to lauralynn.ie/150K or contact Cathy at challenges@ lauralynn.ie.

About LauraLynn Children’s Hospice: LauraLynn is Ireland’s only Children’s Hospice providing palliative and hospice care and support for children (0-18 years) with life-limiting conditions and their families from all across Ireland.

‘We are better together’

Christian Unity Week 2025 in Nenagh

The Nenagh Church of Ireland and Catholic parishes invite you to join them, with Christians of all traditions, in an ecumenical prayer service for Christian Unity Week, in St Mary’s Church of Ireland, Church Road, Nenagh, on January 24 at 7pm. All are welcome.

The service will be based on materials prepared by the community of Bose, an ecumenical monastery of women and men in northern Italy. They have been distributed by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland.

We will listen to Martha confess her faith in Jesus, ‘Yes Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world’. In this 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, we will affirm the faith we share by saying together the Nicene creed in its original form,

shared by both the Western and Eastern churches before the ‘filioque’ schism. And the moment will be marked by sharing the light of Christ, symbolised by lighted candles, as the flame is passed on from the Paschal candle to candles held by the congregation, filling the church with light.

Deborah O’Driscoll, Minister for Catechetics in the Ódhrán Pastoral Area, comments: “God calls us to unity, not uniformity. Each of our Christian traditions has its own gifts to share, and when we come together, we enrich one another through the love of Christ.

“Let us celebrate the diversity God has made and recognise that, though we may worship differently, we are one family in faith. Unity doesn’t mean thinking the same way - it

means walking together in love, listening, and learning from one another as we strive to build God’s kingdom together. We are better together.”

Echoing Deborah’s words, Joc Sanders from the Church of Ireland Nenagh Union says:

“God surely loves the diversity of our Christian traditions, just as he loves the wonderful diversity of life he has made. We do not all need to worship in the same way, nor even hold exactly the same beliefs.

“But when we gather to pray together as Christians of different traditions, I believe the Spirit urges us to the unity Christ prays for, which is unity in diversity. We have much to learn from each other. We need each other to be salt and yeast to build God’s kingdom in the world. We truly are better together than apart.”

CBS recently. Michael Fitzgibbon, on behalf of the Lion’s Club, presented Guidance

Helen

on behalf of CBS Secondary school Nenagh, a generous donation in recognition and support of mental health projects and initiatives carried out with students in our school.

Donal Smyth presented a donation to Nenagh College Guidance Counsellor Rochelle Maharaj in recognition of important work in the promotion of positive mental health carried out in Nenagh College.

Nenagh Lion’s Club carries out important work in the community and we value our connection with the organisation, its generous support, and our shared goal of supporting young people. Wishing all at the Nenagh Lion’s Club continued success in their endeavours in 2025.

A sincere thank you to members of Nenagh Lions Club who visited St Joseph’s

Counsellor

O’Connor

Pictured are Lion’s Club members Jim Riordan, Rose Walsh, Michael Fitzgibbon, CBS Nenagh Guidance Counsellor Helen O’Connor, Nenagh College Guidance Counsellor Rochelle Maharaj, Donal Smyth and principal of CBS Nenagh, Karen O’ Donnell.

LAFFORD

In Memoriam In Memoriam

HEWITT

(Acknowledgements and 1st Anniversary) (1st Anniversary)

Caroline Lafford (Nee Duggan) College Court, Cahir

We sat beside your bedside Our hearts were crushed and sore we did our best until the end till we could do no more.

In tears we watched you sinking we watched you fade away and though our hearts were breaking we knew you could not stay. You left behind some aching hearts that loved you most sincere we never shall and never will forget you Caroline dear. ’

Caroline, who was predeceased by her father Dave Duggan, is sadly missed by her loving family; mother Christina, brothers Sean, Tony, David, sistersin-lawsMarie, Geraldine, Viki, Nieces Gemma, Arwen and nephews Marc, Jason and Killian.

Acknowledement

The family of the late Caroline Lafford, College Court, Cahir, Co. Tipperary who died 26th January 2024 wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our very sad loss. We offer our heartfelt thanks to her many wonderful friends expecially Siobhan, Jackie, Maeve, work colleagues, relatives, neighbours and well-wishers who attended the funeral mass and burial of our beautiful wife, mother, daughter, sister and aunt. For those who visited our home, texted, telephoned, and travelled long distances, sent mass cards, floral tributes, messages of condolences and dropped in food and refreshments, we are eternally grateful.

To all who helped in any way your contribution made our loss more bearable.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The holy sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions.

Caroline’s first anniversary mass takes place in St Mary’s Church, Cahir, Sunday 26th January 2025 at 11am. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.

In loving memory of Ann Hewitt whose 1st Anniversary occurs on 22nd January 2025. Deeply loved, very sadly missed and remembered every day by her loving family.

God saw the road was getting rough. The hill was hard to climb. He gently closed your weary eyes. And whispered peace be thine

Office: 052 614 8800 Mobile: 087 696 6357 Email: info@tippecho.ie

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Cashel Town in talk of

By Liam Browne

Town stunned at passing of popular rugby stalwart - Johnny Hannigan

‘Johnny was a long serving member of the club since his youth and served as player, under age coach, President (1973-1975) and committee member.’

CASHEL RUGBY CLUB and the whole of the town of Cashel were stunned over the weekend at the sudden passing of club stalwart Johnny Hannigan on Sunday night. Johnny was a long serving member of the club since his youth and served as player, under age coach, President (1973-1975) and committee member. In recent years his passion was the success of the club lotto to which he and his wife Dor devoted a huge amount of time and effort. The blue roses tin, full of lotto tickets was never too far away, at games and the various events the club hosted.

Johnny’s dedication to fundraising didn’t stop there. He was the beating heart of the clubs annual Golf Classic, a testament to how he brilliantly combined his love of golf with his unwavering commitment to the club. Year after year, you’d see Johnny’s familiar face around town, tirelessly visiting every business with his characteristic warmth and charm, gathering sponsorships that would make each Classic more successful than the last. No door was closed to Johnny, and his ability to recruit teams was second to none. His enthusiasm for both golf and rugby was simply infectious. The Golf Classic became not just a crucial fundraiser for the club, but a cher-

ished event that reflected Johnny’s special gift for bringing people together.

As a club member, administrator and friend Johnny had no equal and he will be very sadly missed by all who knew him. Johnny was the one who lit up every room he entered, always armed with that trademark smile and a twinkle in his eye, always up for a bit of craic. His lifelong friendships, forged through decades at the club, were a testament to his genuine, warm-hearted nature. Whether you knew him for fifty years or five minutes, Johnny had that rare gift of making a connection with everyone he met. His cool head and wise counsel was a wonderful asset to the club, but it was his extraordinary ability to forge lasting friendships and spread joy wherever he went that will perhaps be missed most of all. He also ran a very successful pub business, nestled just below the Rock of Cashel, where he was the smiling face for not only locals to enjoy a pint and some food, but also for the thousands of visitors to the town who passed in and out through the doors of his bar. To Dor, James, Yvonne, Anne-Marie, Darren, Claire, JJ, Faye, Cara and his extended family we extend our sincere condolences.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Cashel’s Young Lioness succeeds in National Young Ambassadors Awards

Cashel Lion’s Club Young Person of the Year, Maeve Carroll of Garrendee, New Inn, had more success at the weekend, when she was voted runner up in the National Final of the Lions Clubs of Ireland, Young Ambassador of the 21st Century Competition. The final took place on Saturday in Carlow, where Maeve was one of seven candidates from around the country who competed in this prestigious final.

Maeve impressed the adjudicators during her twenty-minute interview with the range of her community and school involvement. She also told the adjudicators and the audience of parents, Lions, family members and friends of her community involvement and future plans. Her genuine commitment and support for issues such as the environment, accessibility, care for our senior citizens really impressed the assembled audience.

On a personal level, Maeve has also distinguished herself on the camogie field and has represented her club and her county ‘playing one of the fastest field sports in the world’. She is the proud holder of a number of camogie medals and is particularly proud of ‘being part of the Tipperary under 16 team that won a Munster Camogie Shield’. Maeve has a ‘huge interest in dairy farming’ and after the Leaving Certificate she hopes to ‘pursue a career based on helping farmers develop more sustainable methods to enhance the future of Irish agriculture’. Cashel Lions Club congratulates Maeve on her achievements to date and wishes every success and happiness in the future.

The late Johnny Hannigan, ‘Fiodh Árd’, Old Road and formerly of Ladyswell, Cashel, who died on Sunday.

Maeve Carroll of Garrendee, New Inn, was voted runner up in the National Final of the Lions Clubs of Ireland, Young Ambassador of the 21st Century Competition in Carlow at the weekend.

Johnny Fogarty centre, with a replica of the Swiss Cottage which he made. Also in pictured are Johnny’s daughter Olive and Seamus King. Seamus and Johnny had cooperated to launch their new book, The Many Places of Cashel and District: Ancient and Modern. (See full story on opposite page).

Well-known local duo collaborate to bring out new book about Cashel

SEAMUS KING AND JOHNNY FOGARTY are two names that are synonymous with the town of Cashel. Seamus is a well-known broadcaster, historian and author, who has written numerous books recording the history of the town and its institutions, but also on his most favoured topic, the GAA, both at a national and local level. His book on the history of the famed Cashel King Cormac’s is a must read for anyone who has even a passing interest in Gaelic Games in the town. And Johnny has risen to prominence in recent years, for a different kind of reminiscence, that in bringing the buildings of the town back to life, but at a smaller scale, building lifelike models of many of the towns famous houses, hotels and churches. So, with the two men also being long time friends, it wasn’t any surprise that they would get together and co-operate on a project that they could both bring their own unique skills to, and produce an outcome that was more than the sum of its parts. And that’s where their new book, The Many Places of Cashel and District: Ancient and Modern sprang from.

Johnny has become famous in Cashel for his model building work. After retiring from many years of work in the car repair business, he felt that he needed something to keep his mind fresh, and came up with a rather novel idea. To build scale models of buildings in his home town. He began with something simple. Or at least he thought it would be. Where else would you begin in Cashel, except with its most famous edifice, the Rock of Cashel itself. To do so, Johnny sought out as much information about the famous Rock, and its measurements, going so far as to get architect’s drawing plans, and then slowly and laboriously putting the model together. Once he had it completed, he showed it to his good friend Seamus King, who felt that more people should see the work of art, and Seamus sent pictures of the completed model to local media, who printed the story of how the miniature Rock came about.

That set the ball rolling, as one of the people to see the picture, was an overseer on the historic site, who contacted Johnny and asked him of they could display the model at the Rock itself. Surprised but delighted at the request, Johnny allowed the model to be put on display, and it received great acclaim from those who saw it, coming as they do from all over the world. It wasn’t long before Johnny started with another model. And then another, and another. Pretty soon he was taking the measurements of buildings all over town. But as he did so, his ambitions increased and the models became more elaborate. Not just was he getting the dimensions of the various constructions correctly, but now he needed to spruce up their outward image. They basically needed painting and decorating. And for that, Johnny enrolled none other than his daughter Olive. He also added in the rest of the family, by commandeering sons Brian and Aiden to get him the necessary plywood and tools from the

local Centenary Co-op.

One of the next big projects was the construction of a building that has gone through a large amount of construction in recent years itself, the newly renovated Cashel Palace Hotel. Again, working with the owners and manager of the hotel that is a centrepiece in the Main Street of the town, Johnny produced the goods, before Olive added the finishing touches. They handed over the completed article to hotel manager Adrian Baartels, and it now stands pride of place in the lobby.

Chez Hans, Devitts Funeral Home, and the churches in the town all got the same treatment as the number of models grew along with Johnny’s fame, and he was featured on the much loved and widely watched RTE program “Nationwide” in February 2022, telling the country that despite being then ninety-one years of age, that age should be no barrier to pursuing a hobby that you love. He also received local recognition when he was chosen as the Cashel Lions Club, Person of the Year, an accolade of which he is hugely proud. And although he is now being asked by individuals and businesses to produce unique pieces, he has had to tell them to go back to the end of the list, as he has plenty of models to get through at the moment. And on top of that, he had a book to write.

There was never a question, that when he decided to write the book, his co-author would be Seamus King. Not only because of Seamus’ extensive experience of writing. Not only because it was Seamus’ photo to the local media that set his fame rolling. But because they are great friends and have a long held mutual love and respect for the town they live in. Johnny provides the models, Seamus writes, and together they add the story to the building. They add to the rich tapestry of the past and what happened in and around those buildings. In some cases, explaining why they came to be where they are in the first place. And that takes the models from being wood and paint, to being a living, present experience as much as being a collection of past memories.

The book itself is a tribute to imagination and innovation. It stands as a monument to the ability of a person to take something they love, and turn it into a reason for creation. Johnny never envisaged that he would be famous for making models in his nineties. He’d lived a full life up to the time he first cut a piece of plywood. But it is a testament to the need to remain busy. To life long learning. To seeking out a hobby and turning it into a labour of love, not just to be enjoyed by oneself, but to bring in the support and good wishes of a whole town. Seamus adds to this, by once again committing to the written word, the rich history of his home place, a place that he is hugely proud of. And between them they leave a legacy to the future generations. The books name calls out the ancient and modern. But somewhere in the pages, it leaves a message for the future. When others will seek out the great buildings of Cashel. And there they will find, a man who fashioned them in wood.

‘Johnny Fogarty has risen to prominence in recent years, for a different kind of reminiscence, that in bringing the buildings of the town back to life, but at a smaller scale, building lifelike models of many of the towns famous houses, hotels and churches.’

Send us your news to info@tippecho.ie

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in. Email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

Sightsaver Bus Clinics to recommence in the area

Cllr. John O’Heney has announced that he will be organising new Sightsaver Bus Clinics again soon in locations around Tipperary (Tipperary Town, Cashel, Cahir and Clonmel). If you are on a Waiting List for Healthcare Treatment this could greatly assist you.

Some popular procedures people avail of are Cataracts, Knee & Hip Replacements and Tonsil Removals. But, there are many more procedures that are available. After the Clinics John and the team will arrange the following for patients;

- Organise travel arrangements

- Organise hotel stay in a 4 star hotel, where you avail of a discounted rate.

- Organise transfers to and from the Hotel to the Hospital.

- Organise all the Treatments you need to avail of.

You can avail of all types of medical procedures that you find yourself on a Waiting List for with the HSE, in Belfast. Fell free to contact John at any stage and he will do his best to be of assistance. Please Register your interest at the following email address; johnpoheneypc@gmail.com .

Social Signing get-together at Tipperary Library

New Directory of Service launched - accessing of essential info made easier

Tipperary Town Library invites you to join for a social signing get-together, which continues to work at breaking barriers in order to build a truly inclusive community for everyone.

Come along every Tuesday from 7:008:00pm and every Wednesday at 11 am commencing on Tuesday, 4th February. Contact 052 6166125 for more info.

The new Tipperary Town Directory of Services was launched in Tipperary Town recently. The initiative was led and compiled by Tipperary Town Revitalisation Team during 2023 and 2024. This project was carried out in collaboration with the SICAP Programme in Knockanrawley Resource Centre and South Tipperary Development Company, the Tipperary Local Development Committee, CYPSC Tipperary, and Ecovision, all of whom funded the printing of this Directory of Services. Many of the statutory and non-statutory organisations, agencies and community groups in Tipperary Town and County were also involved.

The Tipperary Town Directory of Services is being distributed to all households in Tipperary Town and the surrounding areas. It provides information on many of the statutory, community and a number of business services available in Tipperary Town, and some outside of the town. There is information on each service, with con-

tact phone numbers, websites and e-mails included. There is a summary at the end.

Maria Minguella, Social Inclusion Co-ordinator, from the Tipperary Town Revitalisation Committee welcomed the launch of the Directory.

“I am very happy that the Tipperary Town Directory of Services is complete, printed and available online complete with maps. This Directory will enhance access to information on available services to all households, and also strengthen the links and the collaboration that already exists between communities and services and between services themselves. It will also be a very important tool for any new residents coming to live in Tipperary Town or surrounding areas, and for any new staff members starting to work on the ground to provide such services. I wish to thank our team at Tipperary Town Revitalisation, particularly Alan Manning and Ceola Ryan, whom made this Directory possible, and also all of those agen-

cies and organisations who were involved in bringing this important communication tool to life” concluded Ms. Minguella.

Emer Duggan, Manager of the Knockanrawley Resource Centre in Tipperary Town, also welcomed the publication.

“This Directory highlights the incredible power of community collaboration, making it easier for individuals and families in Tipperary Town and surrounding areas to access essential information and supports in our local community. We are proud to have contributed to this initiative, which we believe will have a meaningful and lasting impact in supporting access to knowledge. Thank you to the Tipperary Revitalisation Team for making this directory possible” said Ms. Duggan. You can find an online version of this directory, with maps, using the following link; https://tipptownrevitalisation.ie/portfolio/ tipperary-town-directory-of-services/

with Martin Quinn

The Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District, Cllr. John Crosse was joined by representatives of the various agencies for the launch of the Tipperary Town Directory of Services.

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in, email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

Tipperary Credit Union Latest News

For our Christmas Jumper Day we were delighted to have raised a total of €330 for the Down Syndrome Tipperary Branch, based in Thurles. Huge thank you to all the staff and our members that contributed on the day. Karen O’Brien presented a cheque to Pamela Hickey (Down Syndrome Tipperary Branch member).

Congratulations to St. Anne’s Secondary School student Merle Antonia Butzmann, as her artwork came third in her category at the Chapter stage of the Credit Union Art competition 2024. We love how you captured this year’s theme “The Joys of Life” so beautifully. Karen O’Brien from Tipperary Credit Union presented Merle with her certificate and prize money, and was joined by Helen Ryan Art Teacher at St. Anne’s Secondary School.

Congratulations to all the boys and girls who won prizes at the Christmas Market in December.

Prizes were kindly sponsored by Tipperary Credit Union Limited. Well done to Johnnie who won the colouring competition, with Moya and Mia coming second and third respectively.

We are excited to announce that this year’s School Quiz will take place on Monday, 10th February at the Great National Ballykisteen Hotel. All local primary schools within our common bond will be receiving their application packs soon. To test your knowledge please see the following link; https://www. creditunion.ie/.../schoo.../trythe-online-quiz/

Tipperary should have been under a red weather warning says local councillor Councillors ask for feedback to severe weather

Cashel-Tipperary based County Councillor John O’Heney, has strongly criticised Met Éireann, and believes many parts of County Tipperary were so badly hit by the recent weather that a Red Weather Warning should have been issued.

“All week people were trapped in their homes with snow, and many people spent days without power and water. It has been an extremely difficult and challenging week for many people. I have received hundreds upon hundreds of calls this week from those in real states of distress. Outside

resources should have been sought to aid Council efforts. I want to commend the Council Ground staff and the Council Engineering Team who have been doing everything they can in challenging circumstances, but I believe they are under resourced. Many in rural areas were forgotten about due to lack of resources. While the main roads and routes were maintained, a lot of the rural roads were not and people are understandably very frustrated. How many snow ploughs, snow moving equipment were lying idle in counties not affected by the

current snowfall” said Cllr. O’Heney.

The Independent Councillor commended the efforts of local contractors, farmers and private individuals who took it upon themselves in many rural areas to help out where needed.

“The efforts of local contractors to help their local communities in this time of need has been hugely admirable, and many have given their time freely all week to help those in need. The implementation of a Community Centred Action Plan is something I have already proposed to Council Officials for future extreme

weather events. In future we need to support our Council staff by utilising the support we received from farmers and contractors in the area. We need to have a list of individuals ready, willing and able, who can assist us in times of emergency. We must ensure they are insured, have Health & Safety documents in place, and are compensated for their work. I also want to commend the great efforts of the Gardaí, the Civil Defence, the Red Cross and all local Businesses, for everything they did this week in this time of emergency.”

Cllr. Annemarie Ryan and Cllr. David Dunne are asking for the public’s feedback on the impact of the recent severe weather. At last week’s council meeting they raised queries on behalf of the public in relation to Tipperary County Council’s response to the inclement weather, covering the following areas;

- Assessment of the number of outdoor staff

- Provision of salt boxes to residents and community associations.

- Assessment of plant machinery in each district.

- Inclusion of feedback from the public on the impact of the weather.

- Support requested from the Defence Forces, other Local Authorities and Private Contractors.

- Roads & Footpaths, Priority Salting Routes, Rural roads & villages response.

They have asked for the above (and more) to be included in their post event review. They think its very important to hear how the weather impacted on the public and the area, so they can learn for future events. You are asked to keep your comments constructive and be mindful of the long hours / difficult conditions that faced the outdoor staff in dealing with these unprecedented conditions. They will share the results with the council and the public. (Please note they are not gathering email addresses or personal information).

Karen O’Brien from Tipperary Credit Union presenting a cheque for €330 to Pamela Hickey (Down Syndrome Tipperary Branch member).

Karen O’Brien from Tipperary Credit Union presenting Merle Antonia Butzmann, with her certificate and prize money along with Helen Ryan Art Teacher at St. Anne’s Secondary School.

Johnnie was the winner of the colouring competition at the Christmas Market, where the prizes were sponsored by Tipperary Credit Union.

Moya and Mia were placed 2nd and 3rd in the colouring competition at the Christmas Market, where the prizes were sponsored by Tipperary Credit Union.

Handball Club commences 50-50 Fundraiser

CARRICK ON SUIR HANDBALL CLUB has announced that it will be starting a new 50/50 draw commencing on Sunday, 2ndFebruary.

The club, situated on the grounds of the Davin Park is always a hub of activity throughout the winter months, with children and adults of all skill levels practicing, training and playing matches. The club is run on membership and court fees but in light of new buildings and the modernisation of existing walls more funds will be needed to ensure it’s survival and continued growth.

The club boasts several local and regional champions and under the watchful eye of David Tobin it promises to be a great source of exercise, fun and competitive games for decades to come.

CARRICK SWAN

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

History was made at the Carrick Swan AGM last Friday as Kevin Lanigan was appointed chairperson of the club. Kevin follows in the footsteps of his father, Dick Lanigan, our current Life President, who also served as chairperson in the past.

This marks the first time in the club’s history that a father and son have held the position.

We extend our best wishes to Kevin as he takes on this important role.

We also wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to Jim Bourke, who stepped down after six years of dedicated service as chairperson. Jim has been an outstanding leader, and we sincerely thank him for his commitment and contributions over the years.

We would also like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks to the outgoing committee for their hard work throughout 2024.

To the new committee, we wish you every success in the year ahead. Here’s to a fantastic 2025 for Carrick Swan GAA Club!

We would especially like to welcome our newest committee members. Elaine O’Neill, who takes over as club PRO and Sinead Blackmore, who takes over as our Healthy Club Officer.

Best of luck to both, in your new roles.

The full executive committee for 2025 can be seen on our website, and on our Facebook page.

SWAN SOCIAL

Excitement is building across Carrick and the surrounding ar-

Normal service resumes with All-Ireland title for St Nicholas Boxing Club

Only a few short weeks into 2025 and St Nicholas Boxing Club has picked up their first All-Ireland title thanks to the skill and athleticism of young Aleksej Lazic who adapted without any problems to three, three minute rounds.

The small but mighty club has produced many fine boxers down through the decades and even through a couple of years of uncertainty when the future of the club was facing an unknown future they continued to turn out champion after champion.

No with their home secure and an array of up and coming young pugilists the future looks brighter than ever for the club.

eas as we gear up for the highly anticipated Carrick Swan Social, set to take place at the Talbot Hotel, Clonmel on Saturday, 22nd February.

The 2025 Carrick Swan Social promises good music, nice food, and plenty of craic, all in the company of great friends.

Entertainment for the night features live music by Loose Cannons, followed by a DJ to keep the dance floor buzzing until late. There is a bar extension until late and your ticket includes return bus transport and a fantastic 3-course meal. Tickets cost just €50 and can be purchased from any committee member or by contacting one of the following. Elaine O’Neill: 085 7262688, Frankie Nolan: 086 3834086, Alan P Ryan: 086 3657657. Tickets are limited and will be sold on a firstcome, first-served basis!

SWAN LOTTO

There was no winner of last week’s Carrick Swan Lotto. Eight people matched 3 and won €30 each. The numbers drawn last week were 6 - 8 - 11 - 18.

This week, our Lotto jackpot is €2,250. This week’s draw takes place, on Thursday night, and it costs just €2 to enter. Best of luck everybody.

BINGO

Carrick Swan Bingo takes place every Thursday night after our Juvenile Lotto draw. Bingo commences each week at 8.30pm in The Swan Hall and all are welcome.

Come on down and bring some friends to enjoy bingo, a chat, and a bit of craic every time.

South Tipp GAA trials included plenty of talent from Carrick club

Last Saturday afternoon, following the hard-fought Tipperary V Dublin senior challenge in Fethard Town Park, the next generation of under 15 hurlers took to the field, hoping to emulate their heroes and don the famous Blue and Gold jersey.

Split into two fairly even groups, both teams gave their all for the three thirds of hurling that proved to be closely contested but played in a fair manner at all times. This was the first under 15 trial for some and the nerves were on display for a short period but soon enough all of the young lads were playing well and seemingly oblivious to the harsh, cutting winds that had parents and friends well wrapped up in the stands.

From a Carrick-on-Suir point of view, both local Tipperary based GAA clubs were well represented.

For the Davins Alex Stuart played some fine free flowing hurling and his club counterpart, Billy Murphy was a thorn in the side of the opposition’s defence for the entire time.

The young Swan players also gave a very good account of themselves with Odhran Reade settling into the number 6 position while around him Craig O’Donnell had a

superb game particularly under high balls. Aaron Brennan was his usual dogged self, fighting and battling for every ball that dropped in his vicinity and Aidan Sweetman grew steadily as the game progressed finding the confidence to run at the opposing defence at every opportunity.

The two newcomers to the trials were Jack Kiely and Liam Walsh.

Jack has grown and developed into a fine full-forward for club and school, a big powerful young man, with a fine hand to catch balls and a strong runner who has an eye for goal.

Liam is one of the quiet unassuming hurlers that every club needs. He goes about his work in a cool, calm manner, never in the spotlight but always doing the donkey work, putting in vital tackles and cutting off the supply to the opposition inside line.

Judging from the skill levels on display from all of the young hurlers over the hour there is a bright future in store for South Tipperary and with the local lads standing out so well it really does bode well for the future of the game in the proud hurling town that Carrick-on-Suir continues to be.

Finn McLoughlin who represented the Lion Club Carrick-on-Suir at the district 113 All Ireland Young Ambassador Award Competition in Carlow on Saturday last,

FINN McLOUGHLIN made the relatively short trip to Carlow last Saturday where he represented the Lion Club Carrick-on-Suir at the district 113 All Ireland Young Ambassador Award Competition.

Finn, a student at Comeragh College, was the youngest of all of the finalists on the day and although he did not scoop the top prize, he did his fellow Lions and the whole of the community proud.

The Lions Club expressed their thanks to the young ambassador Ireland officer, local woman, Stephanie Keating. They were also very thankful to Shirley O Shea, the local youth ambassador officer and Kendra Watson who is a past young ambassador winner, all who assisted Finn in his preparation for the day.

Aleksej Lazic, a promising young member of St Nicholas Boxing Club, Carrick-on-Suir, has picked up the club’s first All-Ireland title of 2025

FARMING IN FOCUS

Programme for Government lacking specific financial commitments for Agriculture

IFA President Francie Gorman said the agriculture section in the draft Programme for Government focuses on many of the issues raised by IFA during the General Election campaign last November.

Based on an initial assessment of the document, he said that a lot of the commitments lacked specifics and funding details.

“A lot of the commitments in the document are consistent with IFA policy, but it does not contain any clarity on the level of funding for farm schemes,” he said.

“I would acknowledge the strong commitments in relation to fighting to retain the Nitrates derogation for our grass-based

system. The commitment to oppose the current Mercosur deal is also important as the changes made in December are of no help to Ireland. I also want to recognise the commitment on live exports,” he said.

“We made a comprehensive submission to the political parties and candidates in advance of the election campaign and we invited the three main party leaders to address our National Council during the campaign.

Many of the points raised have been referenced in the agriculture section of tthe draft PfG document,” he said.

EARLY ENGAGEMENT

The IFA President said he looked forward to an early engagement with the Minister and Ministers of State for Agriculture, once the Government is formed next week.

“We have a number of priorities that will require strong political focus. Whoever is appointed Minister will have to hit the ground running.” he said.

“We want to ensure that commitments made during the election campaign are carried through to the workings of the new Government.”

ICMSA say 2025 beef prospects ‘good’ as year’s prices start strongly

The Chairperson of ICMSA’s Livestock Committee, Michael O’Connell, has welcomed the hugely positive start to the new year’s beef trade and said that it is absolutely essential that beef prices remain strong for the year ahead, so as to close the gap with our UK counterparts and deliver a realistic margin for farmers. Base prices for steers and heifers have seen positive upward momentum since Christmas with €5.60c/kg base price freely available for both categories and more to be gained through a bit of negotiation. Flat prices of up to €6.20c/kg is available for inspec Angus cattle while Friesian steers have commanded up to €5.70c/kg.

Describing these prices as a hugely positive opening for farmers, Mr. O’Connell said: “We have often seen processors in previous years talking down trade post-Christmas, but they won’t even try that this year because supply of slaughter-fit cat-

tle is at an all-time low”.

The ICMSA Committee Chairperson said that farmers with beef cattle to sell need to know the value of their own stock and explore their options. While mart re-openings are delayed in some cases due to weather, this is having a ‘knockon’ effect in terms of available cattle for slaughter with the mart trade expected to be ‘rip roaring’ according to factory agents and mart staff.

“We have heard cases of farmers being offered a ‘this is just for tomorrow because of the weather’ deal or being told ‘there’s plenty of cattle to come mid-January and I’ll get yours away before the trade settles’ deal, but realistically factories are very set on sourcing cattle. We want farmers not to feel pressurised into slaughtering cattle if they are not satisfied with the price”, Mr. O’Connell stressed.

Mr. O’Connell said that since

the resumption of slaughtering post-Christmas, ICMSA is aware of reports that a number of factories have been short up to 100 cattle against the daily kill plan. He said that while farmers will be told that weather is a very significant factor – and it may be for a few days and in a geographic way – the reality is that slaughter-fit cattle are not there. He said that year after year of farmers facing the whim of factories and being offered demonstrably unsustainable prices has eventually led to this gaping hole in supply.

“The line had to be drawn somewhere; famers have done the sums and finishing cattle wasn’t adding up. This is the reality behind the price of the R3 steer being approximately 70c/ kg ahead of where it was this time last year despite being a further 99c/kg behind our UK counterparts. It amazes me to see how our UK counterparts are so far ahead of us in terms

of beef price when we export roughly 45% of our beef to them – a fact that is not being reflected in our market returns here”, said Mr. O’Connell.

Mr. O’Connell concluded up by commenting on the transparency of the Organic Beef Sector and how the conventional factories could learn from them.

“Organic farmers have the option of signing up to a forward beef price contract, set out three to four months in advance. Conventional beef finishers would love to see this implemented by processors as we are told on a regular basis that there is no such thing as a ‘contract’ in place for finishers or feedlots. A forward price agreement would take a certain amount of the risk out of finishing cattle and taking into account the trade for store and forward store cattle, something will have to change to take the risk out of this huge investment. We think this would go a long way towards that”, he said.

Weekly Cattle Prices

Prices reported as quoted or paid to IFA members on week of 15th Januay, 2025.

Strong demand. Factories paying 10c/kg to 20c/kg above quotes. Steer base €5.70/5.80/kg.

Heifer base €5.80/5.90/kg. Young Bulls R/U €5.80/6.10/kg. Higher prices for larger and specialised lots.

Cows €4.90/€5.60/kg. In-spec bonus 20c/kg for under 30 months and 8c/kg for 30 to 36 months. 12c/kg bonus for under 30 month steers and heifers grading O- and those with a fat class of 4+ that meet all other in spec criteria.

FACTORY BASE QUOTES C/KG Steers Heifers Cows

Pig Market Update

There was a 4c/kg drop in Irish pig prices recently with producers reporting quotes ranging from €2.05 – €2.10 available from processors in ROI – however, there is still a good demand for pigs. The EU average price for week 1 for grade E carcass was €1.92/kg excluding vat. This represents a 0.9% change in last months prices and is -8.5% behind prices for the same week last year.

Following an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease in Brandenburg, Germany, a video conference by the Ministry of Agriculture highlighted containment measures. The origin of the pathogen remains unknown. Infected animals and those at risk in the vicinity were culled, and a regional standstill extended by two days. Fence construction will begin to prevent the disease’s spread among wild animals. Water buffalo were infected 2-3 weeks ago. A vaccine reserve is available for ring vaccinations if necessary. Import bans from third countries and potential issues with exports to England were reported. Regional restrictions are being expedited to mitigate market impacts, and economic support was announced. Under EU law, restrictions will last at least 30 days, potentially extending to three months per WHO guidelines. The UK banned imports of cattle, pigs, sheep, and fresh meat from Germany as of January 14. Strictest biosecurity measures must be implemented.

Potato Market Report

Demand and consumption are typical for this time of year. As growers plan their plantings for 2025, the issue of seed continues to be top of the agenda. The 2023 season continues to have an impact on seed supply, not just in Ireland but all across the continent. Given these issues, many growers may be forced into using a proportion of home saved seed and/or growing home saved seed this year.

Across Europe, fresh markets are described as “buoyant”, with good movement over the holiday period. In the U.K. it is reported that demand is very poor in all veg sectors as fresh markets recover from the Multiple promotions over Christmas. In terms of exports, there is still good demand from the Canaries but shipping is a “nightmare”, leading to shortages which have a direct effect on any planned promotions in the multiples or temporary oversupply.

Cahir Garda Districts Annual Senior Citizens

Party

This Friday we will see the welcome return of the Garda Districts Annual Senior Citizens Party. The Cahir Garda District would like to extend an invitation to all Senior Citizens to attend the Party will take place in Cahir House Hotel on this Friday January 24, 2024, starting at 5pm.

There will be Music, Dancing, Refreshments and Spot Prizes too. Any Neighbours, Family or Friends who bring an older person are also invited to stay and enjoy the evening if they wish to do so. If you require transport to this event please ring Cahir Garda Station on 052-7445630 and leave the name/address /eircode and phone number as soon as possible and they will arrange transport for you between 4pm and 5pm on the day.

This is always an entertaining and fun night and a popular one on the Senior Citizens social calendar, so all Senior Citizens should take this opportunity and come along and be entertained on the night! The members of the Cahir Garda District look forward to meeting you all there.

Cahir Tidy Towns

Don’t forget our fundraising Table Quiz has been set for Saturday February 15, 2025 in the Shamrock Lounge. The Quiz starts at 8pm and is always an enjoyable and entertaining night and definitely not an event to miss. So put the date in your diaries!

Thanks to everyone who continues to support our can recycling collection. Thanks also to ABP Food Group Cahir for supporting our ‘Cans for Trees’ initiative. We will continue again with the collection in 2025 and we will plant more trees. The next can collection is on Saturday, February 1, 2025 in the usual place of the Castle car park from 10 -11am.

The Cahir Group are delighted to see St. Declan’s Way being promoted as we were instigators in walking the trail and getting it established back over 12 years ago and we continue to promote and assist walks along the pilgrim path to this day. Our Liason Officer Catherine and many helpers who maintain the route through Cahir can assist anyone who needs help but most of the information is on the St. Declan’s Way social media pages and website. Why not put it on the ‘To do’ list for this year?

St. Declan’s Way a breathtaking 115km ancient Pilgrim Path that starts in Cashel, goes through Cahir and winds its way on to the village of Ardmore, Co. Waterford. This trail takes in all the natural beauty of the Irish countryside. The official brochure for St. Declan’s Way is now available with all the details you need to plan your journey.

Cahir Town in around the

By Maria Taylor

Cahir Social & Historical Society

Last Thursday, 16th January, the Society’s first lecture for 2025 saw a guest appearance by an Editor of a national publication.

The lecture took place in Cahir House Hotel and started at 8pm. Cahir Social & Historical Society were delighted to welcome Jack Kennedy, Editor of the ‘Farmers Journal’ to deliver a lecture.

Jack’s talk focused on “The Changing Face of Food and Agriculture in Rural Ireland - Through the History of the Farmers Journal” and it was well received by the audience. Jack has strong connections to Cahir with his parents, John and Bridie still residing in Garnavilla just outside the town.

Once again there was a great crowd attendance with great interest in the topic and many questions asked and answered on the night.

What a great start to activities for Cahir Social & Historical Society for 2025. We look forward to the next scheduled event on their calendar, so watch this space for more details.

Seventh Tipp Scout Group make busy start to the new year

All sections of the Group have been keeping busy over the last couple of weeks with activities. Beavers were out in Glengarra Woods where our youngest group Bree Beavers cooked sausages for everyone, Ruarc Beavers made pizzas on an open fire and Conn Beavers worked on their backwoods shelters. They’re starting January working on their emergencies badges.

The Cubs have been on a trip to Cahir fire station where the local Fire-fighters helped them earn part of their emergencies badges, they also got to see the Fire trucks and all the equipment that is used in emergencies. The Cubs Sixers and Seconders have just come back from their County Training day in Clonmel Scout Hall.

The Scouts are straight back to work prepping for their

County Shield competition that is coming up soon. In this competition they will put their skills to the test representing Seventh Tipperary Scout Group against other county teams.

They are full steam ahead getting their gear ready for competition and we wish them best of luck on the day. Well done to all members of the Seventh Tipp Scout Group for keeping up the great work.

At the Cahir Social & Historical Society Lecture on Thursday, 16th January were members of Cahir Social & Historical Society Michelle Crimmins, Guest Speaker Jack Kennedy, Editor of the ‘Farmers Journal’, PJ O’Meara & Eddie Kennedy CS&HS

These young boys and girls were clearly enjoying the Seventh Tipp Scout Group Cubs visit to Cahir Fire Station where the local Firefighters helped them earn part of their emergencies badges,

Cahir Beavers earned part of their emergencies badges. From left to right: Tom Halpin, Leon Mullally, Danny Orme, Oran McCarthy, Lilly Ryan and Evan St. John

Cahir GAA Club

DRAW THE JOKER

Last Sunday January 19 there was no winner of the €4,600 Jackpot and other winners were €100 Kevin Butler online, €50 Gerardine Hickey, €50 Yvonne Crowley online, €30 Finbarr Lonergan online and €20 Tom Byron. This Sunday January 26 the Joker Draw will take place in The Galtee Inn. Jackpot will be €4,800. Thank you to all for your support.

MY LIFE STEPS CHALLENGE

It’s that time of the year again when as part of our Healthy Club project we have signed up for the ‘Mylife Steps Challenge’.

So please join us in Clocking up the Steps, each club has to clock up 4,000km to be in with a chance of winning one of 3 prizes of €2,500 for their club. Walking is beneficial for physical health & mental health. All you have to do is download the MyLife App and follow instructions on our Facebook page.

Community Lotto Draw

The Community Lotto Draw took place on last Wednesday, January 15, 2025 in the Social Welfare Office at 12 noon. Draw was witnessed by Leo Coffey and the Jackpot of €3,000 was not won.

The numbers drawn were 7, 22, 24 and 27.

The four lucky Dip winners winning €25 each were Laura Butler, Lisava, Cahir, Patrick O’Donnell, Kilmalogue, Cahir, Betty Lowrey, Cahir Bingo and Maria Deegan, Cahir Bingo. Congratulations to all.

The next Draw will take place on today, Wednesday January 22 in the Social Welfare Office at 12 noon.

The Jackpot will then be €3,100 and results will be published next week.

Tickets are always available in the Enterprise Centre and in local shops too. We wish everyone the best of luck in the draw.

This Lotto supports Cahir Development Association Community Projects.

CAHIR PARK AFC

SYMPATHIES

The Cahir Park AFC family would like to extend their sincere sympathies to the family of Sam Shone who has passed away last week. Our thoughts are with his wife Josie, his daughter Kathy, sons Ian, Peter &Terry his brothers, sisters, grandchildren including our own Evan Cotter, Cahir Park Youth Player and sister Katie, also a Park Girls player and extended family and friends. We are thinking of you all at this sad time.

NEW FIRST TEAM

MANAGER TAKES CHARGE

We mark a new chapter at Cahir Park AFC as Christopher Higgins has now taken charge as our new A Team Manager. Chris took up the role just before Christmas and we’re thrilled to have him on board. We wish the best of luck to Chris and his team for the rest of the season.

JUNIORS

On Sunday, January 19, Cahir Park Firsts Team were away to Peake Villa in the TSDL Premier League. Although not the desired result the score being Peake Villa 4, 2 Cahir Park, some positives taken. Park Goal Scorers were John O’Brien and Willie O’Dwyer. Our thanks go to the supporters who travelled on the day.

We would like to mention our three Youth players, firstly Josh O’Dwyer who started center back and handled himself very well for his debut Junior game, Mark Flanagan made his Junior debut coming in at left back in the second half and again stood up well against a very good Peake team. And finally Callum Butler started right back and had a busy day up against a good experienced player and handled himself very well. All 3 players are 17 years of age and have a good future ahead of them in junior football. It was very satisfying for Management to see their progression.

We now go on to the next fixture for our First Team on this Sunday, January 26 at home to Clonmel Celtic (B) in the Tipperary Cup. We wish the best of luck to the Team and Management. Support always appreciated.

B TEAM

On last Sunday, January 19, 2025 in the TSDL Division 3 Cahir Park B Team were away to Donohill & District and came away with a fantastic win with the final score Donohill 2, 6 Cahir Park B at the full time whistle.

YOUTHS

Last Saturday at home in a TSDL Youths Division 1 match was Cahir Park Youths V Two Mile Borris. Result was Cahir Park 1-4 Two Mile Borris.

Youth Bs - Last Saturday January 18, in a Youth Division 2 match our Youth B team were away to Cashel Town and returned with a good win. Final Score was Cashel Town 1, 2 Cahir Park Youth B.

Park went a goal up after five minutes from a Cillian Carrigan corner, then Liam Kelly made it 2, nil with a volley from outside the box and it was 2 nil at half time. Cashel pushed very hard in the second half and were rewarded with a goal from a corner on 30

minutes. Bur Cahir Park hung in for the last 15 minutes to go home with the win. Well done to Team and Management.

Junior Fixtures - Cahir Park (A) v Clonmel Celtic (B) match is on this Sunday, January 26 at home. Support always appreciated. B team - Cahir Park B Team is away in the Tipperary Cup to Premier Division side, Clonmel Celtic (A) on this Sunday January 26. Support always appreciated.

Youths Fixture - Our Youth A’s & B’s face each other this weekend, as can happen, Cahir Park Youth As have been Drawn against Cahir Park Youth Bs this weekend in Tipperary Youth Cup. So, this Saturday, January 25 Cahir Park Youth Teams face each at home with Cahir Park (A) v Cahir Park (B). We wish the best of luck to both teams and Management on the day. Support is much appreciated.

Cahir Park U14A Boys - last Saturday January 18 in the U14 SFAI National Trophy Cahir Park U14A Boys took on Glynn Barntown in what was the fourth attempt to play this match due to postponements. Result was Cahir Park 5, Glynn Barntown 1. Cahir Park came out on top at the end of the match. Glynn Barntown came out with real intent and could have had a couple of early goals but Cahir Park weathered the storm. Our lads settled into the game and got the breakthrough goal after 18 mins by Kacper Miklaszewski. Another goal soon followed with a wonder strike from Captain Fionn Aird. Cahir Park went on to add another 3 showing quality all over the pitch. There was an outstanding display in the Cahir Park defence from the man of the match Daithi Goonan. Goal scorers were Kacper Miklaszewski with 2 goals, Fionn Aird (2) and Jack Noonan scored. Well done to Team and Management. This super young team are now into the next round at home to a very strong De la Salle side in 2 weeks time. We wish the Team and Management the very best of luck.

CAHIR PARK U14 GIRLS

Well done to our own Brid Quinn and Siobhán Sullivan who were on the U14 TSSDL Squad that played in Moate last Saturday in the All Ireland Quarter Final and came away with a well deserved 4-1 win. Well done Girls!

CAHIR PARK 50/50 DRAW

The Cahir Park 50/50 Draw took place Wednesday, January 15 in Cahir Park AFC. We had a 50/50 Draw winner of €450 that was won by Sean Flynn and Ger Ward won €150. in a second draw on the night that was sponsored by Cahir Park AFC and drawn due to a missed week. Thank you to all our ticket sellers, all our sponsors and everyone who buys tickets; we truly appreciate your support of our Club. We remind everyone that there is a cash winner every week. Tickets can be purchased from usual sources All tickets sold during our 2 week break in our Draw will be included in the Draw on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 8pm.

Cahir Park Girls win with TSSDL- Well done to Cahir Park U14 Girls Brid Quinn & Siobhán Sullivan who with the U14 TSSDL Squad won an All Ireland Quarter Final last Saturday.

Cahir Park U14A Boys win at home- Cahir Park U14A Boys won against Glynn Barntown of Wexford in fourth attempt to play match due to postponements last Saturday.

Recently Deceased

Prayed for at all Masses in Thurles parish at the weekend were the following who have died: Catherine Loughran, née Dooley, Castleknock, Dublin formerly Seán Treacy Avenue.

Fionnuala Purcell, Glasnevin, Dublin.

Date for the Diary

Friday 2nd May – Ormond Octaves in Concert in Thurles Cathedral of the Assumption. Further details to follow. All proceeds towards the Cathedral Reroofing Project.

Presentation Primary School Open Day

Children and parents are invited to the Open & Enrolment Day on Sunday, 26th January starting from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. The boys and girls will be taken on a tour of the school and information on enrolment will be available. Please visit www.presprimarythurles.ie or contact the school office on 0504 22331 for further information.

Gaelscoil Bhride – La Eolais

Bí linn d’ár Lá Eolais, ar an Domhnach, 26ú Eanáir ó 2.00 i.n.4.00 in. Fáilte roimh chách!Join us for our Open Day on Sunday, 26th January from 2.00pm - 4.00pm. to view the school, meet the staff and learn about immersion education. All are welcome. For further information, please contact the school on (0504) 21497 or email oifig@gaelscoildurlas.ie

Scoil Angela Primary School

Open Day

Join us the school for their Open Day on Sunday January 19th, (12.00 noon – 2.00p.m.). Parents and new children welcome. For further information contact (0504) 22561 or email info@scoilangela. ie. Follow them on Instagram and X @scoilangela

Family Mass

An open invitation is extended to all families to join Thurles parish for the Family Mass, next Saturday, January 25th at 7.00 p.m. in Cathedral. Theme: Jubilee Year of Hope. Please bring completed worksheets to the Family Mass. These worksheets will be issued through the schools during the week.

Eye onThurles

By the Cathedral Townie

Opening night beckons for ‘Like a Bat Out Of Hell’

Thurles CBS Secondary School is on high alert these days as the opening night of Like a Bat Out of Hell arrives in the Premier Hall.

Despite having lost a week of rehearsals just two weeks out from opening, the cast is closing in on the curtain rising on Thursday evening with a huge sense of anticipation racing through the corridors of the school.

Following the incredible success of Grease last year, Thurles CBS is changing direction and

is bringing Like a Bat Out of Hell to the stage– yes, it’s time to break out the torn jeans, the leather jackets and the biker haircuts in the Cathedral Town as the music of Meatloaf rips through the streets once again. Remember, he played Feile in Semple Stadium back in the early 1990’s and was literally a roaring success.

‘Like A Bat Out of Hell’ is a rock musical with music, lyrics and book by Jim Steinman, based on the Bat Out of Hell album by Meat Loaf. The musical

is a loose retelling of Peter Pan, set in post-apocalyptic Manhattan (now named ‘Obsidian’), and follows Strat, the forever young leader of ‘The Lost’ who has fallen in love with Raven, daughter of Falco, the tyrannical ruler of Obsidian.

Follow Strat, his friends ‘The Lost’, Raven and her parents Falco and Sloane featuring all of the great Steinman and Meatloaf songs some of which include, Bat Out Of Hell, Paradise by the

Dashboard Light, Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad, You Took The Words Right Out Of My Mouth and many more......

You can join the CBS for this spectacular show, running from this Thursday, 23rd January to Saturday, 25th January at 7.30pm in the Premier Hall. They will also stage matinee performances on Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th at 10:30am. Book your tickets now and don’t miss out!

Presentation Thurles

win local derby Munster

Senior ‘A’ Colleges

Camogie Final

Congratulations to the Presentation Thurles senior A camogie side which defeated neighbours Ursuline Thurles in the Munster Colleges final at the County Camogie Grounds at the weekend.

The Ursuline girls were going for three titles in a row, but they came up against a resolute Pres’ team coached by Tipp camogie star Cáit Devane and former Tipp camogie coach Cian Treacy, and were unable to turn them over.

The fact that two Thurles schools were in the final again, speaks volumes to the kind of local talent which exists and to the serious amount of work which is being invested in camogie in the schools and in the local clubs.

Well done to the Pres’ girls who progress to the All-Ireland series now – congrats to the Ursuline girls on being great champions for the last two years.

DURLAS EILE ELIOGARTY MEMORIAL COMMITTEE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Durlas Éile Eliogarty Memorial Committee

held its A.G.M last week with eighteen committee members participating in what could be described as a very successful meeting

The extension to the Community wall by 28 feet will be a very important project for St. Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance going forward. The extension will, when finished, enhance that area. The extension will also be available for new memorials and small plaques of remembrance.

The committee has had requests from various bodies over the years at home and overseas for permission to erect a plaque of remembrance. They have the full support from all organisations -Veterans Association; An Garda Siochana; Red Cross; Order of Malta; Church of Ireland church body; Foreign Ambassadors based in Ireland. All that is required now for the extension wall to go ahead is permission from the Thurles Municipal Council.

The Church of Ireland church body are fully behind the proposed extension and the committee is very grateful to the Church body and the Town Council as well as the Municipal Dis-

trict Council and the Heritage Department for all their help and advice over the years.

St Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance has become a very special Garden of Remembrance where people from at home and overseas have attended the Remembrance Sunday Ceremonies including the Irish Lebanese Culture Foundation and the Republic of Korea representatives.

It is very important that people who had relatives killed in all wars by terrorist authorities in the service of peace at home and overseas have a Garden of Remembrance to visit pay their respects and to say a prayer. The Committee would like to thank all the people who supported them and attended their ceremonies over the years.

A special word of thanks to sponsors: Dr Martin and Jo Ann Semple Denver Colorado U.S.A; the Republic of Korea Embassy Dublin; Thurles Municipal District Council, and to all who supported their church gate collection.

The committee is always looking for main sponsors to help them maintain a very high standard in the upkeep of St. Mary’s Inter-

national Garden of Remembrance. A very special word of thanks to Ambassador Mr. Abdo Haddad in Tibnin South Lebanon who represents the committee at all ceremonies in Lebanon in a very dangerous war zone at the moment. The Irish U.N Memorial Garden in Tibnin South Lebanon is twinned with St. Mary’s International Garden of Remembrance. Thanks also to Mr. Tony Lanigan and the TUS Team who help to maintain St. Mary’s.

OFFICERS ELECTED

The following Officers were elected. Mr. John Wort, Chairman; Vice-chairman, Mr. Guy Jones; Secretary’s Mrs. Roseanna Ryan; Assistant Secretary Mr. William Ryan; Third Secretary Councillor Jim Ryan; Treasurers Mr. P.J Ryan; Assistant Treasurer, Mr John Wort; President Mr. Dominic Moore P.C; Design Team Mr. Joe Fanning, Mr P.J Ryan, Mr. John Wort; Legal Adviser, Mr. William Ryan; P.R.O, Mr. J. Wort; Special Adviser to the Chairman, Mr. Noel O Dwyer; Head Gardeners Mr Michael Ryan, Mr. S O Brien. Photographer, Jim Troy.

Presentation College Thurles who defeated local rivals Ursuline College Thurles in the Munster Colleges final played at the County Camogie Grounds at the weekend. Ursuline College were going for three-in-a-row but this time they had to settle for second best against a fine Presentation side.

Thurles CBS play Harty Cup semi-final on Wednesday

Fresh from their victory over Ard Scoil Rís last week in the Dr Harty Cup quarter final, the Thurles CBS lads will tog out again this Wednesday January 22nd at 1:30 in Castlelyons GAA grounds to rumble with De la Salle College, Waterford in the penultimate game.

The Thurles lads have been improving with each game and they will be hoping to bring their best showing of the season to the semi-final clash, conscious that the opposition are a top notch side who will take beating.

Best of luck to the players and management team.

Sarsfields and Tipperary legend Padraic Maher to feature on TG4

Retired Thurles Sarsfields and Tipperary hurling star Padraic Maher is to feature on an episode of TG4’s Laochra Gael this week with viewers across the Premier County set to tune in on Thursday evening for the special edition.

The programme features much footage from Padraic’s time playing with Thurles Sarsfields and Tipperary while there are also extensive interviews with him and his family members including his brother Ronan who is the current defensive bulwark of Liam Cahill’s Tipp team.

Padraic, of course, was a selector with the Tipp senior hurling team following his injury-enforced retirement from the game he graced so magnificently yielding three All-Ireland senior medals as well as a scatter of county senior hurling championship titles and scores of other awards.

Rarely was seen, a player of such commanding presence on the field of play, and as wholehearted and committed a defender who enjoyed an exceptional career and the regard of players from all over the country.

Padraic was as tough as nails but as fair a hurler as there was –he never pulled a wrong stroke or engaged in on-field theatrics, but opponents knew full well that they had played a game after he was finished with them.

A member of An Garda Siochana working in Limerick, Padraic is currently Manager to the Thurles Sarsfields senior hurling team and already he has them back in training for the 2025 season.

The TG4 programme is sure to be a winner with Tipperary supporters and will be available to watch on the Player afterwards, for those who will be unable to view it on Thursday.

Sean McLoughlin to be honoured with Knocknagow Award

Thurles Sarsfields and Tipperary hurling legend Sean McLoughlin will be honoured this month and inducted into the Hall of Fame following a glittering career which spanned Tipperary’s golden era of success.

Sean will be presented with the Knocknagow Hall of Fame award by the Tipperary United Sports Panel at the Annerville Awards night at the Talbot Hotel in Clonmel on Saturday night, January 25, a hugely deserved if somewhat belated recognition of his exceptional contribution to the success of Tipperary and Thurles Sarsfields hurling from the late 50s right through to the 70s. His trophy collection is second to none and really volumes of the kind of attacking star he was at the edge of the square. Two minor All-Ireland medals, four senior All-Ireland’s, six National League, six Oireachtas’, two Railway cups with Munster, and ten county senior hurling titles with beloved Thurles Sarsfields.

Not only did he collect the accolades, but Sean produced consistently high levels of performances in a career that spanned three decades between club and inter-county action. As a goal-poacher supreme, Mac as he is known to his many friends inside and outside of Tipperary, had few equals. For instance in the 1952 minor All-Ireland hurling final, he scored 3-2 from play. The following year, against Dublin once more he bagged 4-3- how the Capitalists hated the sight of this tall, strong, gangly destroyer.

That early promise was realised at senior level in the years that followed. When Tipp needed a goal, McLoughlin was invariably the provider. His duels with Cork’s Jimmy Brohan and Kilkenny’s Pa Dillon were not for the faint-hearted and were the stuff that fuelled animated debate in GAA circles. They were like battle scenes from Game of Thrones right there on the edge of the square with neither side giving an inch – the unmovable object pitted against the unstop-

pable force.

He first figured at senior inter-county level in 1958 but it was not until the ‘60s that he cemented his place in the side, going on to win four senior All-Irelands in a five- year spell now regarded as Tipperary’s golden era.

The unorthodox manner in which this six feet tall player frequently found the net – hand-passes and kicked goals were a speciality but they did tend to overshadow his innate hurling skill. However, they were the ideal foil to the approach of the ball-playing Jimmy Doyle, Donie Nealon and Babs Keating – a template which Babs and Theo were to later deploy during their time as coaches to the Tipperary senior hurling teams in the ‘80’s and ‘90’s and copied by many other sides since.

The ultimate team player, who never chased personal glory, Sean delivered goals consistently and at crucial times during his wonderful career.

Tipp’s defeat by Waterford in 1963, sandwiched between the All-Ireland success of ’61,’62,’64 and ’65, denied the Premier County a record-breaking five McCarthy Cup titles in a row. Tipp dominated the game but lost 0-11 to 0-8 – a Sean McLoughlin goal disallowed in the second half would have drawn the game and given Tipperary the opportunity to keep alive their bid to achieve the magic five in the replay. To add to Sean’s frustration, he was the team captain that year and always lamented that defeat.

In the county semi-final against Roscrea in ’71 two disallowed goals helped Roscrea through by three points – one umpire reportedly commenting, ‘you got away with them before Mac, you’re not getting away with them again.’

Sean’s inter-county career ended in ’69 but he was still a key figure in the Sarsfields set up into the 70s. He was part of the glorious squad that claimed ten Dan Breen cups in eleven years – from 55-59 and 61-65. He established himself in the team in ’57 and when Sarsfields lost to Toomevara in the 1960 final, Sean played on the Thurles Crokes football team that won county senior honours that year, the only time the title came to Thurles.

In 2016 Sean was inducted into the Thurles Sarsfields club’s Hall of Fame, comfortably sitting alongside former colleagues such as Tony Wall, Jimmy Doyle, Martin “Musha” Maher and Mickey “Rattler” Byrne. In a typically unassuming acceptance speech, he described the speaking ordeal as more daunting than an hour on Pa Dillon.

The accolade from the Tipperary United Sports Panel is a most fitting recognition of Sean McLoughlin’s legacy. An unsung hero of the Tipperary GAA story, no one deserves it more that the great Sean McLoughlin who sadly buried his wife Eileen at the end of November last.

Sean McLoughlin leads Tipperary in 1963.

Sean McLoughlin

Laochra Gael Padraic Maher, of Thurles Sarsfields and Tipperary hurling fame, will appear on the popular TG4 programme Laochra Gael on Thursday evening next, 23rd January

Recollections from 2007 with Joe Kenny

Photographed at the Confidential Art Sale held at Holy Trinity Church of Ireland, Fethard, on June 17, 2007, were L to R: Leo Swift, Shirley Swift, Sandra Craik-White and Petranelle Clifton Brown.

Resident, John Cullinane, cutting the tape at the official opening of Comeragh Court Community Childcare Centre in Clonmel on June 8, 2007.

Gael Scoil, Thurles, team who played Clonoulty in the Under-11 D Hurling Final at the Cumann na mBunscol County Finals held at Semple Stadium on June 18, 2027.

Our Lady of Mercy Cahir N.S. team who beat the Presentation Thurles, in the Under-11 A Camogie Final at the Cumann na mBunscol County Finals held at Semple Stadium on June 19, 2007.

Making their way to the Tipperary v Limerick Senior Hurling Championship replay at Semple Stadium were Cllr John Fahey and his three sons from Killenaule L to R: Jack Fahey, Daniel Fahey, John Fahey and Harry Fahey. The final score in Thurles finished deadlocked at 1-24 to 2-21, leading to a second replay and a return to the Limerick’s Gaelic Grounds on Sunday, June 24, 2007.

Photographed at the opening of Comeragh Court Community Childcare Centre in Clonmel on June 8, 23007, are L to R: Marie Hawkins (Tenant Management Board), Patricia Power (Childcare Manager), Ann Kellegher (Tenant Management Board), Deirdre Garrett (AIB Better Ireland) and Michelle Gallagher (Tenant Management Board).

Recollections from 2007 with Joe Kenny

John Condon, Merck Sharp & Dohme, photographed at the launch of the Junction Festival Participation Programme outside Clonmel Library on June 8, 2007.

Roscrea athletes photographed at the County Athletics Finals of the Community Games held at CBS Nenagh on May 27, 2007. L to R: Niamh Talbot, Ciara Lupton, Katie McNamara, Karen Hogan, Graham Hogan and Laura Booth.

Mike Kelly, Rathfin, Fethard, photographed with friends on the occasion of his 21st birthday party celebrated in Moyglass on June 2, 2007

Gortnahoe Glengoole athletes who were third in the final of the boys under-14 relay photographed at the County Athletics Finals of the Community Games held at CBS Nenagh on May 27, 2007. L to R: Liam Fogarty, Colm Scott, Tim Dunne, Martin Barnaville and Kevin Slattery.

Carrick-on-Suir athletes photographed at the County Athletics Finals of the Community Games at CBS Nenagh on May 27, 2007. L to R: Corey O’Dwyer, Robyn O’Dwyer and Hollie Hickey

Photographed at the Sts Peter and Paul’s National School where the Band of the 1st Southern Brigade, under the baton of Lt. Fergal Carroll, played with the school band on June 7, 2007. L to R: Lt. Fergal Carroll, Danny Carroll, Yvonne Moran (teacher) and John Hickey (school principal).

Thurles Schools were well represented at this year’s Young Scientist competition

CONGRATULATIONS to all the students in Thurles schools who participated in the BT Young Scientist Competition in the RDS last week.

There was an enormous quantity of innovation and excellence on display throughout the competition and the students of Thurles CBS Secondary School, Colaiste Mhuire, Presentation Secondary School and the Ursuline Secondary School were front and centre of the standard setting.

The Presentation girls Caoimhe Ryan, Orlaith Timmons and Dearbhla Horan managed to meet and greet President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina when they visited their stand and they were thrilled to discuss their project with him –a project which earned them third place in their category. Their project investigated Loneliness in Irish Teenagers.

Coláiste Mhuire Co-Ed. BT Young Scientist finalists Cormac and Maria’s project, “Behind The Smiles: The Silent Struggle of Teenage Burnout,” made a great impact. They had the chance to meet Taoiseach Simon Harris, who showed great interest in their project, agreed it’s an important issue, and even asked them to send it on for a closer look Thurles CBS’s TY student Luke Blackwell came

away with two awards including one of the top four awards in the competition, ‘Runner up Individual’. He also won the ABP Farm Sustainability award. Luke is a fantastic student and has been hard at work at home on his farm and in the lab at this project since last March – the hard work paid off. Congratulations to Luke

There was also wonderful news from the RDS as Ursuline Thurles’ Julie and Ella were awarded the Department of Agriculture and Department of Health `One Health AMR` Award.Their project, entitled “Less Antibiotics, Less Resistance?”, investigated if reducing the routine use of antibiotics on dairy farms decreases the antimicrobial resistance in bacteria isolated from cows’ milk on those farms. Their insightful work was recognised at the ceremony much to the delight of the girls and their teacher Ms Ann Molony.

Meanwhile Róise and Clodagh’s project, entitled ‘No Environment No Well Being’, was Highly Commended. Here girls showcased their excellent work, a study into how engaged young people are with environmental issues and climate change measures while exploring positive interventions aimed at lessening eco-anxiety among their peers. Well done to one and all on their achievements.

Thurles CBS’s TY student Luke Blackwell came away with two awards including one of the top four awards in the competition, ‘Runner up Individual’.

Coláiste Mhuire Young Scientists met with Taoiseach Simon Harris.

The Presentation girls Caoimhe Ryan, Orlaith Timmons and Dearbhla Horan managed to meet and greet President Michael D Higgins and his wife Sabina.

Ursuline Thurles’ Róise and Clodagh’s project, entitled ‘No Environment No Well Being’, was Highly Commended.

Thurles CBS’s TY student Luke Blackwell came away with two awards at the BT Young Scientist

Ursuline Thurles’ Julie and Ella were awarded the Department of Agriculture and Department of Health `One Health AMR`

News from the Community

Burncourt

ANNUAL HOSPICE FUNDRAISER CARD GAME.

The Annual Skeheenarinky Card Game as part of the locality’s Annual Hospice Fundraiser in aid of South Tipperary Hospice will take place in Butlers Bar, Burncourt on Sunday February 2 at 3pm. This in conjunction with the New Years Day Walk and the Auction Night provide vital funds yearly for South Tipperary Hospice, The Hospice Suite at St. Theresa’s Hospital and Vee Valley Day Care Centre Clogheen. Please support Seánie and his team in what is tremendous work to add to money already raised which will benefit those in ill health and vulnerable in the local communities and beyond.

TIME TO READ, TIME TO CHAT.

The date for the first meeting of a Library Space in Burncourt Community Hall is Thursday, February 6 from 10am to 12. The idea is to provide a regular time and area where you come and bring, borrow or not/ stay,listen to a story being read and more importantly bring suggestions as to how this space and time could be used- recipe swopping, writing, crafts etc. This is the opportunity for you

to have a say as to what opportunies this time and space can provide.Of course, there will be a cup of tea/coffee. If you would like to be involved with this venture contact 0876967661.

UPCOMING DATES.

March 2- The Big Breakfast

March 14-Burncourt Drama Production

May 1- Burncourt Community Council AGM BRIAN BORUS CAMOGIE CLUB UPDATE.

The Club draws playersfroBallylooby, Clogheen, Ballyporeen, Burncourt and Skeheenarinky.

The club fields teams from U6 to Adult level. Our club Mission Statement is to promote the growth of Camogie and to encourage respect, honesty, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Training: Currently we are doing Strength & Conditioning with Fundamental Movements on Ballyporeen Astro on Monday nights from 7-9pm with girls from U9 to U14. This will continue until February 24. Come have a look to see what we are doing!

Training will resume on Monday nights at 7pm in Ballylooby/ Castlegrace Pitch -E21 TA47.

Newcomers are always wel-

come from aged 4.

Membership: Details for memberships on www.Foireann.ie

Log in or Create an account and look for Brian Borus Club. For any queries please contact Secretary Amy Coffey on 086-4099050.

SYMPATHY.

Our Sympathy to the Goff family Skeheenarinky on the death of John a beloved father , grandfather, brother. Our Condolences to John, Denis, Karen (Condon), Kevin and Brendan, sisters and brothers, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends. May your memories of John sustain you and may John rest in peace in the Comfort of God’s Heavenly Kingdom reunited with his beloved Josie.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK.

“Sometimes our fate resembles a fruit tree in winter. Who would think that those branches would turn green again and blossom, but we hope it, we know it.”

(Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, German poet, 17491832)

CONDOLENCES

The death has occurred of Michael Maher, Galbertstown, Holycross. Predeceased by his parents Jack and Peg and his brother Richard. We offer our sympathy to his brothers Thomas and John, his sister Peggy, nephew, nieces, relatives and friends. Peace to his kindly soul.

CONDOLENCES

The death has occurred of Donal Ryan, Fertiana, Holycross. Predeceased by his sons Gerard and Michael, brothers Pat and Michael, nieces Mar-

ian and Noreen and nephew David. We offer our sympathy to his wife Sadie (née Ryan), daughters Margaret, Ann (Kennedy) and Angela (Hickey), grandchildren Róisin, Eoin, Gerard, Margarette and Sara, great-grandchildren Jack, Sadie and Lilly, sons-in-law Har and Jimmy, sisters-in-law Sr Philomena (Lilly) and Ann (Scott), nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. Peace to his kindly soul.

ST MICHAEL’S GRAVEYARD COMMITTEE

Parishioners are kindly asked to bring Christmas wreaths home with them and not to dump in the Graveyard. Yours assistance in this is greatly appreciated.

TEXT ALERT

Text Alert scheme registration for residents of Holycross Ballycahill Parish is now open. Forms are available in the Parish Office and Garda Station. Holycross Garda Station 050443222.

Eire Og Annacarty GAA Club

Membership 2025: Membership for 2025 details will be on foireann.ie soon. All-Ireland Club winner: Congrats to Michael O’Dwyer (Knockgorman) who was selector/coach with the CLG Na Fianna Hurlers who won the All-Ireland club Hurling Final last Sunday.

Fundraiser:

Tickets for the Tipperary GAA “Win a House” are still on sale.

Eire Og Lotto results: This week’s Lotto results for 14 January 2025. Jackpot: €11,100.

Numbers drawn were 1, 3, 6, 9.

There were no winners.

2nd chance: €500.

Numbers drawn were 01, 04, 17, 26.

There were no winners.

3rd chance: €250.

Numbers drawn were 02, 08, 20, 29.

There were no winners. Lucky Dip Winners: Stephanie Ryan, Mohera€50.

Daragh Mooney (On-line)€30.

Mary Kelly, Chadville (Online)- €30.

Roisin Kelly, Pallasgreen (On-line)- €30.

Paddy O’Connor, Glasdrum - €30.

Sellers’ Prize: 1 x €30. Heidi Jordan.

Breeda Fitzgerald Holycross/Ballycahill

News from the Community

Killurney

Amanda Bergin

The late Stephen Charles Richard Weir, Killurney, Clonmel, and Benburb, Co. Tyrone, who died on 9th January, 2025.

SYMPATHY

Killurney Sports and Social Club would like to express their condolences to the family and friends of the late Stephen Weir. Stephen sadly passed away on 9th January surrounded by his caring family.

Stephen was a part of our Killurney family for 22 years. He was part of many worlds including his family home in Benburb, County Tyrone, London, Knocklofty and Raheen House to name a few.

Stephen was known to all who lived and came to Killurney. He was a very generous and caring person and would have done anything to lend a hand and make sure his neighbours were ok, by giving them veggies from his garden or sharing out his homemade toffee!

Stephen will be remembered for his love of his pets. He had seen many come and go but all meant the world to him. Sadly as Stephen was being cared for by his family in County Tyrone in his last few weeks, his beloved dogs had to be rehomed. He would have been delighted to know that both TK and Smudge have found loving abodes.

Stephen will return to Killurney one last time as his ashes will be scattered in his garden where his beloved past pets are resting.

Stephen will be missed by all in the community. He is now living his eternal reward with Tyler and his beloved pets.

Golden/Kilfeacle

Marcella Collins

SCRAP METAL COLLECTION

With only two weeks to go to our scrap metal fundraiser for Keith Landy, we urge all households, businesses and farmers to gather up any metal, piping, brass, stainless steel, old machinery, etc., etc., for this great cause.

If any information is needed

please contact Brian Leamy at 087 7975044

PILATES

Pilates classes with Malbay

Mindfulness and Lauren are starting this Wednesday evening at 6pm, upstairs at the Rejuvenate Golden Gym in the GAA Complex in Golden.

Please note there is a waiting list for further classes

If any of you ladies are interested in joining future classes please contact Lauren on 089 9486792

GOLDEN/KILFEACLE GAA

CLUB LOTTO

Congrats to Ian Lonergan, Cashel on winning the fourth chance prize of €200 last week.

Our lotto jackpot now stands at a whopping €20,600.

Tickets at just €2 are available locally and online at www.local-

lotto.ie

Log in to your account and play, you’d never know your luck and in any case you are supporting the local GAA Club.

Your continued support for our gaa club lotto is massively appreciated

REJUVENATEGOLDEN

Our gym has moved upstairs in the GAA Complex

With new training equipment added this local gym is ideal for all ages.

All information on joining can be had by contacting Adrian on 087 2257095

OVER 60S

Our over 60s get together is back for 2025 on Friday, 31st January at 10.30am in the GAA Complex Golden

All over 60s in our parish and surrounding communities are invited.

BINGO

The local GAA club’s bingo continues every Thursday night at 8 o’clock in the main hall at the Golden Kilfeacle GAA Complex.

Over €2,500 in prize money given out each night.

Thank you for your support.

Templederry

WE REMEMBER THIS WEEK

Friday, 24th January in Killeen Church at 7.30 pm, Johnny Ryan, Lisgoriff.

JANUARY ANNIVERSARY MASS

The January Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Templederry Church on Saturday next, 25th January at 7 pm. A lighted candle, commemorating each person remembered at the Mass , will already be on the Altar and can be taken home after Mass by a family member. Contact Templederry Parish Office, in good time, with the names you would like to have included. A voluntary contribution would be appreciated.

ANNUAL PARISH PARTY

The Annual Parish Party will be held on Sunday next, 26th January in The Kenyon Centre beginning with Mass at 1 pm. This will be followed by dinner and entertainment , and concludes with tea at 6.30 pm. Those attending are reminded to make sure you contact one of the Committee Members of the Parish Council to indicate your attendance. We look forward to

Mgt Kennedy

what is always a most enjoyable day.

TEMPLEDERRY PARISH OFFICE

The Parish is open each Wednesday and Thursday from 11 am to 1 pm. People can book Masses, etc., etc. and request information from the Parish Records. Phone 0504/52988 or 087/6564933 during the opening hours of 11 am to 1 pm each day. Or email templederryparishoffice@gmail.com with your request.

LATTERAGH COMMUNITY HALL

Latteragh Community Hall will hold their Annual Flag Day in Nenagh on Friday, 31st January If anyone is available to help out with this collection please contact John 087/2210967 or Therese 087/2719291

Any support would be greatly appreciated.

TEMPLEDERRY GAA LOTTO

Last week’s draw was held in Kennedy’s The Shop and there was no winner of the jackpot. This week’s Draw will be in Michael Hogan’s, Templederry and the jackpot will be €3,400.

SYMPATHY

Sincere sympathy is extended to the Ryan family, Ballykiveen on the death of Margaret.

Deeply regretted by her loving family, son Séan, daughterin-law Faustina,brothers Billy, John and Ger, sisters Kathleen, Noreen, Anne and Teresa, her special relative Rita Maher, adored grandchildren Leah, Shauna, Kayla and Aoife, and all extended family. Margaret was interred in Cappawhite, may she rest in peace.

SYMPATHY

Sincere sympathy is extended to the family of Molly (Mary) Hayes (nee Corcoran), Reask, Pallasgreen, and Gassdrum. Deeply regretted by the Corcoran Family and the extended Hayes Family, relatives, neighbours and friends. Mary was interred in Clonoulty.

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY

A big happy birthday to Evan O’Neill, Clonganhue who celebrated his 30th birthday in Toem on Saturday last with a lot of friends and family.

JOE DOLAN

On Saturday, 26th April a Concert with the Dolan family, Remembering Joe, takes place in the Community Centre. Tickets from Denise 087 7939527, Patricia 087 9829111 or any community council member.

BINGO

Every Friday night in the Community Centre. Great Prizes. All are welcome.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Would like to wish everyone

a very happy and healthy 2025. We will be back again with our monthly Cuairdaioch. A great opportunity to meet up with friends, for a catch up while enjoying a cup of tea and something nice.

This year the membership is €15, which is sent to Head office for membership of A.R.A. and includes us in Public Liability Insurance for all the activities we run. Membership to be given to any of the committee in the next few weeks. New members are always welcome.

DID YOU KNOW!

The correspondent, Ena Ryan (B) turned 94 on Sunday last, and celebrated with a gathering of family to celebrate on Sunday evening.

We would like to thank her for her many years of writing and wish her many, many more years of writing, health and happiness. Happy birthday Ena!

2025 FUN RUN, WALK AND LONG PUCK

Our Annual Fun Run/Walk & Long Puck will take place on the Bank Holiday Monday, 3rd February.

A donation from the proceeds will be made to Cappawhite N.S and Ayle N.S ASD classes, supporting pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorder. As always, the Fun Run/Walk will include a 6k & 10k option. The Run/Walk will start at 12pm, registration will be open from 10:45am. The Long Puck Competition will take place 11am – 11:45am. Please wear Hi-Vis/Bright

Clothing.

SCOR NA BPAISTI

We know that there is great talent among the children of this parish and to help celebrate and develop this, Cappawhite GAA is holding a parish final for Scór na bPáistí on Sunday 16th February at 3pm in the Cappawhite Community Centre. For further information, to receive a copy of the rules and to enter your child, please contact Bríd McGrath, Cappawhite GAA Irish Language and Culture Officer, on 083-0151938. GAA MEMBERSHIP

Membership for 2025 is now open. As well as renewing existing members, new members to our club are always welcome! Non-members can help support the clubs investment and maintenance of our walkway through our Social Membership. Any support would be greatly appreciated. This is a non-voting membership of Cappawhite GAA Club.

WIN A HOUSE Cappa GAA are delighted with the support received for the Tipperary GAA ‘Win A House’ in Cashel Fundraiser so far! The draw is due to take place on St. Patrick’s Weekend. 300k cash alternative also available. If interested,contact Kathleen 0871371548 or Éanna 0877522290 to purchase. Tickets are €100, Cappawhite GAA will retain €30 from every sale made via the Club so please consider purchasing through the Club if in a position to do so.

Pictured at the Parish Links party in the New Inn Community Centre on Sunday, 12th January was Tommy O’Mahoney singing a few songs on the day.

Cappawhite

Ena Ryan (B)

News from the Community

New Inn & Knockgraffon

Sandra English

NEW INN WOMEN’S GROUP

The New Inn Women’s Group is set to commemorate its 30th anniversary with a special Mass on Monday, February 3, at 7:30pm at New Inn Church. The community is warmly invited to participate in this significant event, which will be followed by refreshments at Barron’s Pub. Eamon O’Dwyer from “Down Your Way” will also be in attendance to engage with the ladies and discuss their remarkable history over the past three decades. Come and join us in celebrating this important milestone!

25 CARD KNOCKGRAFFON

Winners on Wednesday January 15 with 12 games were brothers Billy / Vincent Phelan and in joint second place with 10 games each were Maisie O’Grady/Mary Gleeson and Michael Murphy / Jimmy Looby. Table prizes to Mary Ann Healy / Eileen Howley and James Ryan/Eddie Ryan. Well done all. Cards start at 8.30pm sharp and all are welcome. Tea & refreshment afterwards.

NLN (NATIONAL LEARNING NETWORK)

Enrolling Now! Supportive Training courses including Options Rehabilitative Training,

General learning with ICDL Core & ICDL Advanced, Employer based Training, Ancaire Autism Outreach Service. Contact Kitty Galvin Hennessy on clonmel@nln.ie /052 6181555

LOTTO DRAW RESULTS

From Saturday January 18, Numbers drawn - 02,11,12,23No winner..

Lucky dips x 4: Jim Kelly, Jimmy Looby, Barry & Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Deirdre O’Dwyer all in January draw for €500 – Sellers: Phil Ryan c/o Ollies, Jimmy Looby, Rockwell Rovers x 2 in sellers draw for €100.

This week’s jackpot is €7,600. Thank you for your continued support !

TIPPERARIANA BOOK FAIR

Annual Book Fair for Book Lovers and Collectors on Sunday, February 12 in the Fethard Ballroom from 12 noon to 4.30pm. Adm: €3, Cafe on premises. No ATM facility. Books of all types and shapes, from valuable antiquarian to modern day “pulp fiction” paperbacks. Please come along for a browse!

For more info contact Michael Mallon tel :086 3777348, email: bookfair@fethard.com, www.tipperariana.com

Pictured at the Parish Links party held on Sunday, 12th January in the New Inn Community Centre were Mary O’Connor, Anne Shanahan and Helen Fitzgerald.

Pictured at the Parish Links party held on Sunday, 12th January in the New Inn Community Centre were John & Esther Ryan and Marie Ryan.

Pictured at the Parish Links party held on Sunday, 12th January in the New Inn Community Centre were Breda Sweeney, Maureen O’Brien and Margaret O’Connor

Pictured at the Parish Links party held on Sunday, 12th January in the New Inn Community Centre were Mairead Moloney and Bridget McGrath

Pictured at the Parish Links party held on Sunday, 12th January in the New Inn Community Centre were Mary Hennessy and Breeda Sweeney.

News from the Community

A sad day as Cistercians finally depart from Mount Melleray Abbey

Gortnahoe/Glengoole

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm.

The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

SACRAMENTAL DATES

The dates have been announced for the following sacraments in the parish.

Confirmation will take place on Friday 28th February at 11am.

First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

PARISH CONFIRMATION

The sacrament of Confirmation will be conferred on the children of 5th and 6th class of the 3 parish schools (Gortnahoe, Ballysloe and Glengoole) by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly on Friday, February 28th in Gortnahoe Church at 11 am.

A Ceremony of Light, in preparation for the sacrament, will be held for the children on Wednesday, February 5th in Glengoole Church at 7pm.

All families are asked to take note of both events, including venues, dates and times.

GLENGOOLE NS GRANDPARENTS DAY

grammes and facilities, with a guided tour of the school, and fun activities for children.

PILGRIMAGES TO MEDJUGORJE

Departing from Shannon on May 21st and August 27th for one week. €50 early booking discount for bookings made before January 31st.

Contact John O’Brien, Group Leader, on 086 8586304 for further details.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening 25th January at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910

SPLIT THE POT

Predeceased by his parents Tweedy and Kit, sister Breda, brothers Tom and P.J. , nieces and nephews Diarmuid, Kay, Edward and P.J., and Moveta. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Ella, brothers and sisters Billy, Mary, Edward, Ann, Mick, Brendan and Peg, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, stepchildren Sean and Michelle, extended family and a wide circle of friends.

John reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home Urlingford last Friday evening. Removal to the Church of the Assumption, Urlingford took place on Saturday for Requiem Mass followed by cremation at the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy.

May he rest in peace.

ANNE POLLARD RIP

BALLYLOOBY/CASTLE-

GRACE GAA

Result: 14/01/25. No Jackpot winner. Next week’s prize €2,700. No match three.

Numbers this week were 2, 21, 26 and 27.

Four lucky dips: Helen Savage, Kathleen Moloney, Mary Burke and Joanne O’Gorman

The club extend their thanks for your continued support. Tickets available at usual outlets & clubforce.com-Ballylooby/ Castlegrace Gaa

RHODODENDRON WALK-

ING FESTIVAL

St. Bridget’s Day Walk, Slate House, The Galtees, on Saturday 1st February. See www.vee.ie for more details

Peers Standing Strong Together/ U Matter Community Coffee Morning FREE Community Coffee Morning:

Peers Standing Strong Together/ U Matter will hold their first Community Coffee Morning of 2025 on Saturday 25 th January

We welcome everyone to St. Paul’s Community Centre Clogheen for a cuppa and a chat from 10am to 12 pm.

BALLYLOOBY COMMUNITY

COUNCIL

Rambling House on Friday 31st January at 8 pm. Music, song, story-telling, dance, so come along and enjoy. Refreshments and raffle on the night. Everyone very welcome.

YOGA IN DUHILL HALL WITH MARIE KING

Monday morning at 9:45 & Chair Yoga at 11:15am AGE STRONG WITH JOANNE PURCELL

Every Tuesday at 6:45pm YOGA WITH NOELETTE Every Thursday at 7pm IRISH CLASSESGAEILGEOIRÍ NA DÚCHOILLE

Every Friday at 7:30pm. Suitable for all age groups

CAHIR GARDA & DISTRICT SENIOR CITIZENS

On Friday January 24th at 5pm in Cahir House Hotel. For those who might wish to receive transport contact Cahir Garda Station 052:7445630 for further info.

MOUNT MELLERAY ABBEYEND OF AN ERA

This is the last week, the Monks will reside in Melleray Abbey. Wishing the Cistercian Monks all of the best in their new home in Roscrea. It has been a wonderful peaceful & serene place for generations &

had visitors from all corners of the world & will be missed by so many.

SYMPATHY

The death occurred of Sr Monica (Margaret) Prendergast, Medical

Missionaries of Mary, Drogheda late of Bohernagore, Clogheen and Uganda. We extend our sympathy to her nephew Mike and niece Kate, relatives & friends from her life - long nursing days at home and abroad. St Monica was laid to rest in Drogheda on Thursday July 16th.

Sympathy also to the family and relatives of John Goff, Skeheenarinky who passed away last week.

John’s funeral Mass took place in the Church of the Assumption Ballyporeen followed by burial in St Mary’s Cemetery on Saturday, 18th January.

Sympathy is extended to the family and relatives of Johnny Darcy Cahir whose funeral mass took place in St Mary’s Church Cahir followed by burial in adjoining cemetery.

The death occurred of Sam Shone, Ardfinnan on 15th January we extend our sympathy to his wife and family May they rest in peace.

As part of Catholic Schools Week, the school will celebrate ‘Grandparents Day’ this Friday, January 24th. We invite grandparents, parents and family members to Mass in Glengoole Church at 9.30am followed by refreshments afterwards in the school.

BALLYSLOE NS “SCHOOL OPEN DAY”

Ballysloe NS School Open Day will take place this Sunday, January 26th from 12.30 pm to 2.30 pm.

Explore the school pro-

Congratulations to Nikki and John Jordan, Bawnreagh who won €238 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220.

For the month of January Split the Pot will be in support of St Vincent de Paul. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall.

Your support would be appreciated.

JOHN GLEESON RIP

The death has occurred of John Gleeson, Main Street, Urlingford Co. Kilkenny and formerly Gortnahoe, peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny in the presence of his loving family.

The death has occurred of Anne Pollard (nee Purcell), Brick, Knocklofty, Clonmel and formerly Glengoole. Anne passed away peacefully at Tipperary University Hospital last Thursday morning surrounded by her loving family.

Predeceased by her parents Michael and Statia and her brothers and sisters she will be sadly missed by her loving husband Billy, daughter Fiona (Fraher), son Liam, son-in-law Ian, daughter-in-law Lisa, grandchildren Theo, Isabelle, Josh and Ellie, sisters Mary, Margaret and Bernie, nephews, nieces, extended family and friends.

Anne reposed at Condons Funeral Parlour, Clonmel last Sunday evening. Removal took place on Monday to St Nicholas Church, Grange for Funeral Mass. Burial took place afterwards in the New Cemetery, Grange.

May she rest in peace

LOCAL LOTTO RESULTS

Last week’s lotto draw was held on Monday, 13th January. The numbers drawn were 3, 26,29,30.

There was no winner of the jackpot worth €5,500.

The lucky dip winners who each received €30 were : Sally and Oscar, Susan Large, Kitty Crosse, Albert and Rita & Mary Fitzgibbon.

Tickets can be purchased in all local businesses and from committee members.

SPLIT THE POT

The split the pot draw took place on Wednesday, 15th January with €180 up for grabs. Congratulations to lucky winner Irene Fitzgibbon. Envelopes

can be purchased for just €2 in all local businesses.

ZUMBA IS BACK !

Zumba fitness with Rebecca is back in Mullinahone Community Centre every Tuesday evening at 7pm. It’s €10 per class and everyone is welcome. For further information contact Rebecca on 083 4152756

GUITAR LESSONS

Guitar lessons will be starting very soon in the Community Centre. Shane Fogarty will help you to learn all about chords, rhythm and strumming, basic music theory and how to care and maintain your instrument. He will also help you to learn how to play your favourite song, help build confidence in your

playing and to play music with others.

All if this will be done in a supportive and fun environment.

For further details please contact Shane on 087 6738416. CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to the eight Mullinahone camogie girls who were part of the victorious Presentation Ballingarry Junior camogie team who won the Munster Junior Camogie Championship last week. Congratulations and well done to Aisling Slevin, Kayla McGuire, Siún McNamara, AimeeLynn Cawley, Dawn Cawley, Lauri Mai Brett, Faye Ahern and Evie Ahern.

Mullinahone

Sinead Moore

Richard Dunne

Ballylooby/Duhill

Kathleen Moloney

This is the last week, the Monks will reside in Melleray Abbey. Wishing the Cistercian Monks all of the best in their new home in Roscrea.

News from the Community

Oola

Donna Quinlan

OOLA COMMUNITY ALERT

If you wish to join Oola Community Alert Please contact 087 6634547. Application forms can be collected and returned to Aidan Kennedy, Paddy Ryan, Denis Ryan or Donna Quinlan. you may also request a form via email from oolacommunityalert@gmail.com.

OOLA COMMUNITY CENTRE

Bingo Bingo every Tuesday Night @8pm Sharp

Cards Progressive 45 Drive Thursday Nights @ 8pm Sharp all welcome.

Results from January 16th 1st place Pat Ryan, Paul Ryan, Eddie McConnell & Johnny Ryan. 2nd place, Dinny Morrissey, Ger Beary, Sharon Kavanagh & Larry Ryan Table Prizes Eileen Ryan & Mixie O’Dwyer

OOLA YOUTH CLUB

Junior Club 5pm - 6.30 Senior Club 6.45 - 8.15

If you have a young person who would like to join Oola youth club or if you are a parent and would like to volunteer as a leader please contact Donna at oolayouthclub@yahoo.com.

CLUB NEWS

Well done to our senior members Michael, Dylan andRobbie who successfully completed a First Aid training course on Saturday last, 18th January in Cappawhite which was run by Youth work Ireland Tipperary.

The focus of the training was on CPR, this is an extremely valuable skill to have and its great to see them taking a genuine interest in learning lifelong skills.

Bansha & Kilmoyler

Barry

GALTEE ROVERS ST. PECAUNS LOTTO

There was no jackpot winner in last week’s Bansha Kilmoyler Sports Lotto draw.

This week’s jackpot is €20,450. Last week’s €20 lucky dip winners were: Lorraine Nugent, Donna Ferris, Eamonn McCarthy and Jack Leonard, Amy & Ella Mullins.

Seller’s prize €20: Costcutters. Tickets, €2 each or 3 for €5, are available locally and online via Clubforce and Galtee Rovers social media pages.

Ballymacarbry

BALLYMACARBRY COMMUNITY CENTRE

BALLYMAC BINGO – THIS FRIDAY!!

We are ready to go at the centre for our January Ballymac Bingo event which takes place this Friday Jan 24th!!! First call will be at 8pm sharp so get down early! Our jackpot prize is well over €500 now which will come in handy to pay off some of those Christmas bills!!! See you there.

‘THE WEIR’ PLAY IN BALLYMACABRY

Ticket sales are flying for the hugely anticipated play ‘The Weir’ coming to the centre on Friday January 31st.

The talented Brideview Drama Tallow who recently won 2nd place in the All-Ireland One Act Open Finals will perform this critically acclaimed play by Conor McPherson on what is sure to be a fantastic night of drama!

Tickets are €15 and can be sourced from Ballymacarbry Central School by calling 052 –6136349. People can also text/ Watsapp our community centre mobile on 086 0328467. Please text your name, address and

Sologhead

ACE

OF HEARTS DRAW

The €2600 Jackpot on offer for Monday night, January 13, was not won while the following took the runners-up prizes, €50 Joanne O’Callaghan Sologheadbeg, (first name drawn), four €25 spot prize winners Gillian O’Brien Online, DJ Gleeson Tipperary Town, Danny Ryan Russelstown and Jonathan Ryan (S) c/o The Hideout. The sellers prize went to Timmy O’Dwyer and the Jackpot for last Monday night, January 20, was increased to €2700.

The draw committee wishes to say well done to all our winners and a big thank you to everyone who continues to support the draw which is now into its eleventh year.

REMEMBERANCE DAY

Last Sunday, January 19, wreath laying remembrance events took place at the site of the Soloheadbeg ambush and at the Sologhead Cross Memorial site to mark the 106th Anniversary Commemoration of the Sologheadbeg Ambush which has been well documented as being the watershed in our history with the start of the War of Independence that followed. Remembering the many volunteers of the Third Tipperary Brigade who lost their lives in the pursuit of Irish freedom a

how many tickets you would like to purchase, and we get the tickets to you!

All proceeds from this event will be going to four local causes; Brideview Drama Group, Ballymacarbry Tidy Towns., Ballymacarbry Central School and Panda Playground c/o Ballymacarbry Community Centre. This promises to be a night not to be missed, so get your tickets soon to avoid missing out!

SPINNING AT THE CENTRE

Looking for a great way to get fit this winter? Why not join one

of our spinning classes at Ballymacarbry Community Centre! We’re thrilled to offer additional spinning classes every Tuesday and Thursday from 7-8pm—a perfect way to stay active and healthy! Our classes are in high demand, but there’s still some availability at the moment. To book your spot, contact the Community Centre at 086 0328467.

We’re also excited to share that we’ve recently invested in new, top-of-the-line spinning bikes. These bikes are equipped with monitors to track your calories burned, distance covered, power, speed, and more, helping you get the most out of your workout. Plus, we’ve added extra bikes to accommodate larger class sizes! The purchase of this fantastic new equipment was made possible thanks to the 2023 Community Sports Facility Fund (formerly the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme). We were thrilled to be granted €24,916 under this fund last year and we are immensely proud that this new equipment will be used by the community for the first time this week!!

Drangan/Cloneen

CLONEEN SQUASH CLUB

Squash season is open and welcoming all players. Whether just playing for fun, wishing to improve fitness or interested in playing a competitive sport. All levels of fitness are catered for with fun ladders/leagues to get folks playing. Box league in progress to get players out playing and having fun. This ensures members get to play against players of similar abilities. Find out more at facebook.com/ CloneenSquashClub. Membership details are available on www.cloneenhall.com ‘Join the Squash Club SCHOOL ENROLMENT

“St Patrick’s Junior N.S Drangan are now accepting applications for September 2025. Enrolment packs are available from Drangan Playschool and the school office. Please email office@dranganns.ie or phone 052-9152278. GAA LOTTO RESULTS

your local promoter. We also wish one of our long standing promoters Seamus Moloney a speedy return to good health and his home in Cloran.

ST. PATRICK’S JUVENILE GAA AGM

wreath was laid at the Ambush site in Sologheadbeg and later at the Sologhead Cross Memorial site wreaths were laid on behalf of the Sologhead Heritage Group by Sally Ryan and Josephine Carroll (nee McCormack).

When one considers the enormity of the sacrifices made by so many young men throughout Tipperary who paid the ultimate price in shaping the Ireland as we know it today, they must never be forgotten.

ST NICHOLAS FC

In their Munster Shield last sixteen game played last Sunday at Bohertrime, Co. Limerick side Ashling Annacotty came out on top 2-1 winners following a cracking 90 minutes of football. Jason Sutton got St Nicholas got off to a dream start with the opening goal after four minutes when capitalising on a mix up in the Annacotty defence but the visitors regained their composure and replied with two super goals of their own to leave it 2-1 at the break which was how it stood at and at the final whistle.

Losing Jack Redican with a leg injury mid-way through the first half was always a threat going forward and would prove a bitter blow while the St. Nicholas keeper Bradley McNabb had

a super game in keeping them in contention right to the final whistle.

Well placed in the TSDL Div. 2 standings the attention now switches to the Tipperary Cup this Sunday, January 26, with an away tie against St. Michaels B. (Kick off time unavailable at time of writing)

The recent winners in their 50/50 fundraisers were (15/1/2025) Tadgh Murphy Greenane Tipperary Town who collected €200 and the Christmas Draw entry for €1000 went to Phillip Ryan Donohill. In the 50/50 fundraiser of (8/1/2025) Wally Myers won the top prize of €200 and the free Christmas draw entry went to Christine Ryan who now lives in Australia.

Tuesday January 14 Numbers Drawn were 2, 7, 8, 20. No jackpot winner. Four match 3 winners were: Margaret Clancy, Catherine Ryan, Niamh Fitzgerald and James Fitzgerald who won €25 each. Congrats. Second chance lotto for €1,000, numbers drawn were 3, 4, 11 & 30. No winners. Next draw will be on Tuesday January 28 for jackpot of €13,400. Don’t miss out, play online or in your local shops, pubs, garages or hairdressers and it could be you. Don’t miss out, play online or in your local shops, pubs, garages or hairdresser.

WIN A HOUSE WITH TIPPERARY CO. BOARD

Tipperary Co. Board are offering you the opportunity to win a House worth €350,000 in Cashel in a draw to be held in mid-March. Tickets @ €100 each can be purchased from St. Patricks GAA club with the club earning €30 commission on the sale. Anyone who purchases a ticket before 28th January will also be included in a draw for a weekend for four at the Maldron Hotel in Cork City which includes Bed and Breakfast for two nights, an evening meal for the four guests and four tickets for the Tipperary-Cork match that weekend on 26th-27th April. Be sure to get your ticket from any officer of St. Patricks GAA club within the next two weeks to be included.

CO. GAA CLUBS DRAW

Recent winners in the Co. GAA Clubs draw were Dick Mockler €300 and John and Paula Ryan who also won €300. If you wish to be in the draw please give €10 per month to

The Annual General Meeting of St. Patricks Juvenile GAA Club was held in the clubrooms at Anner Park on Friday night last. Officers elected were: Chairperson Julieann Gahan, Secretary Nicholas Moroney, Treasurer Julie O’Halloran, Delegates to South and County Boards Richie Butler, Edward O’Brien and Julieann Gahan. Under 7 Manager Eileen Smyth Selectors Lorraine Kennedy, James Denn, Joan O’Shea, Sarah Healy and Brian Clancy. Under 9 Manager Cathy Doran Selectors John Henry Smyth, P.J. Burke, T.J. Noonan, Mickey Fahey and Damian Murphy. Under 11 Manager Noel Clancy, Selectors Declan Ryan, Derek McMahon, John Hayden, Sylvia St John, Judy Noonan and Catherine Cullinane.

Under 13 Manager Tom Egan. Under 15 Manager Mike O’Brien. Under 17 Manager Jimmy O’Brien.

BEREAVEMENTS

We extend sympathy to the Quinn Family Ballywalter on the recent death of their father Jim who died in Kilkenny. Karl Hennessy lives in Magoury, Paula lives in Ballypatrick, Lorraine is in London, Dermot and Seán both live in the USA, Gary is in Germany and Adrian at home in Cloneen. Dermot, Seán, Adrian and Gary were all prominent members of St. Patricks teams over the years while Dermot also made his mark at Set Dancing. May the soul of Jim Quinn rest in peace.

We also extend sympathy to the Kennedy Family of Clonmel and Dublin on the recent death of Michael Kennedy. Michael was a former Tipperary minor hurler and footballer and also a senior footballer with Tipperary during his time with St. Marys, Marlfield and Commercials. When he moved to Dublin Michael was a member of the Faughs club and played senior hurling with Dublin.

Later Michael was a selector with Dublin senior hurlers and was instrumental in bringing the Dublin Senior Hurlers to play Tipperary in Anner Park Cloneen in 1989 for the official opening of the newly installed sideline seats.

May the soul of Michael Kennedy Rest in Peace.

Michael

Tommy Fitzgerald

Eamon Wall

Nicholas Moroney

News from the Community

Two-Mile-Borris, Moycarkey and Littleton

UPCOMING FEASTDAYS.

St. Brigid on Saturday, 1st February .

The Presentation of the Lord, on Sunday, 2nd February - Candlemas Day.

Candles are blessed on this day for all Services in the Church and in the homes throughout the year. Candles or donations in lieu can be handed into the Church prior to this day.

St. Blaise on Monday, 3rd February - Protector of throats.

St. John De Britto on Tuesday, 4th February.

RECENT DEATHS.

Beatrice O’Dwyer (nee Croke), Church View, Littleton.

Donal Ryan, Fertina, Holycross (formerly of Ballybeg, Littleton).

THE LATE FR. SEAN CARROLL.

The death occurred on Sunday, 5th January of Fr. Sean Carroll, Sacred Heart Church, Ruislip, London. Suddenly at the Presbytery, Pembroke Road, London.

Fr. Sean was native of Cloncleigh, Two Mile Borris, Thurles. Predeceased by his parents John and Chris, his brother Michael, nephew Robert and sister in-law-Rose.

Deeply mourned by his brothers Paddy and William, sisters Sarah (White) and Kathleen (O’Gorman, Cloncleigh), sister-in-law Ann, brothersin-law Pat and Jim, nephews, nieces, extended family, his dearly loved parishioners in all

six parishes where he served in the Diocese of Westminster, and a wide circle of friends.

Fr Sean’s mortal remains will be received into the Sacred Heart Church, Pembroke Road, Ruislip, London HA4 8NN on Wednesday, 29th January at 4.30pm, with Requiem Mass, with Bishop James Curry presiding at 7pm.

Funeral Mass on Thursday, 30th January at 12 noon with Cardinal Vincent Nichols presiding.

Fr.Joe Ryan Associate Pastor of Westminster Dioceses, a native of Coldfields, Two Mile Borris delivering the homily. Service at 2.30pm at Breakspear Crematorium. Masses on Wednesday and

Kilsheelan/Kilcash Declan Geoghegan

GAA

Well done to our winners in the Co. Board

Draw, Declan Geoghegan, Anne Neville, Paula Prendergast and also the overall club prize.

A huge thanks to all who helped with the organising of the inter county game on Sunday last Tipperary v Kerry especially PJ, Sinead, Brid and Anne who looked after the catering so well.

KILSHEELAN UNITED/SLIEVENAMON

CELTIC

TSDL Youths Division 2

Kilsheelan United FC 2-2 St. Michael’s AFC

TSDL Division 3

Kilsheelan United FC B 1-0 Tipperary Town

FC B

Munster Junior Shield Round 5 Kilsheelan United 4-1 UCC B

Please note our next 50/50 draw on January 24th. Tickets in all local bars and shops and also on Revolut, all support to date much appreciated. A great incentive to get in shape for the Kilsheelan 10 miler on St. Patricks weekend.

CONDOLENCES

Deepest sympathies to the Kehoe family on the untimely passing of Michael, to brothers Larry, John, Pat, Gérard and sister Mary and extended family we extend our deepest sorrow, may his gentle soul rest in peace

Gerry Bowe

Thursday will be live streamed from the Sacred Heart Church on www,youtube.com/@SacredHeartRuislipChurch.

MASS OF CELEBRATION

A Mass of celebration of Fr. Sean Carroll will take place in St.James Church, Two Mile Borris on Saturday, 15th February at 1.30pm, followed by Burial of Ashes in the adjoining Cemetery. Live streaming link rhealy. ie/funeral.

May Fr. Sean rest in peace. SCHOOLS ENROLMENT.

St. Kevin’s, Littleton on Thursday, 30th January from 6 to 8 pm.

Scoil Mochaomhog Naofa Two-Mile-Borris on Thursday, 30th January from 6.15 to 7.30 pm.

BORRISOLEIGH ACTIVE SOCIAL CLUB AGM

The AGM of Borrisoleigh Active Social Club takes place on Wednesday, 5th February at 7pm in the Community Centre Borrisoleigh.

Nominations for any of the officers roles can be registered with Dolly Secretary 087 1932196 or before Wednesday, 29th January.

Membership for the coming year is €20 which will need to be paid on or before Wednesday, 5th February.

Moyne/Templetouhy Eibhlis Purcell

CONDOLENCES

Sincere condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and neighbours of Patsy Kiely, Ballyknockane, Séan Moloney, Limerick & Thurles and May McGettigan (née Phelan), Dublin & Gortnahoe. May their souls have eternal rest.

WEDDING BELLS

Congratulations to Aileen Butler, Barna and Eamonn Connolly, Loughmore who were married recently in Templetuohy Church. We wish them both every blessing in their marriage.

TEMPLETUOHY COURSING

LOTTO

This week’s jackpot is €17,100. Lucky dip winners of €25 last week: Charlie Fennelly, Castleisland, Susan Kelly, Castleiney, Michael Cullagh, Templetuohy and Billy Collins, Templetuohy.

MOYNE ATHLETIC CLUB

Our postponed AGM takes place this Friday night, 24th January at 8.15pm in the clubhouse. All are welcome.

Training resumed for the indoor and outdoor indoor seasons last week and it was great to see the huge attendances. Reminder that all attending training and competition must be registered with the club. Details are on our website. New members are always welcome.

Congratulations to Dylan McLoughlin (1st U23), Eileen Ely (3rd O/40) and Lisa Quinlan (3rd O/35) on their performances at the County Masters Cross Country in Fethard on Sunday.

Congratulations also to the ladies who competed in the Na-

tional Indoor Club League in Dublin at the weekend.

Entries are now due for the County U9 to Junior Indoor Championships in Nenagh on Sunday 2nd February and the Munster U20, U23, Senior & Masters Indoor Championships also in Nenagh on Monday 3rd February.

Please ensure you have given your entries to either your coach or directly to competition secretary, Helen.

GAA, CAMOGIE, LGFA

The lotto jackpot will be €6,700 this week. The lucky dip winners last week were Jody Sweeney, Bridget Loughnane, Ryan Nolan, Reah Sweeney, Paul Kelly and Willie Butler. The adjourned AGM of the senior club will take place in Templetuohy Community Centre on Friday

Newcastle

BISHOPS PASTORAL VISIT TO THE COMMUNITY.

As we have just begun the jubilee of hope, Bishop Cullinan will be visiting all of the pastoral areas in the next few weeks. In order to promote the year and to explain the kind. of things that are planned, and how each pastoral area might partake in these events and to offer their own suggestions.

These areas cover, Ardfinnan, Newcastle, Fourmilewater, Touraneena, an the Nire. Along with Cahir, Clogheen, ballyporeen and Ballylooby.

All pf our local Parish and Finance Council along with all

the local priests are invited to meet with Bishop Cullinan on Wednesday 12th February at 7pm. All members will be contacted about the venue before then.

NEWCASTLE 5K ROAD RACE

Well done to everyone who participated in the Annual 5k Road Race on Sunday last 19th January. Thank you to the organisers and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes over the last few weeks. It was great to see the community come together for his enjoyable event.

All proceeds donated to Scoil Mhuire N.S Newcastle.

Clogheen PJ English

CAHIR GARDA DISTRICTS

SENIOR CITIZENS PARTY

The annual party will take place next Friday 24th January in Cahir House at 5pm. If you need transport please contact Cahir Gardai on 052 7445630.

SYMPATHIES

We offer our sympathies to the Kane and Meehan family on the recent death of Alice Kane nee Meehan Garrymore Clogheen. Alice is survived by her husband Paul, sons Alan and Oran, daughter Liz brother Tommy, sisters Elizabeth and Nora and all her extended family. May She rest in peace.

The death took place recently of Sr M Monica Prendergast, Medical Missionaries Of Mary Drogheda Co Louth and formerly of Bohernagore Clogheen and Uganda.

She is survived by her nephew Mike, Niece Kate and all her extended family. May she rest in peace.

VEE ROVERS FC

31st January at 8pm.

It would be great to see a large attendance at same. As part of Ireland Lights Up the club field in Templetuohy will be lit each Tuesday and Friday night from 7pm to 8.30pm. Every Step Counts Challenge is also back for five weeks from Wednesday 8th January to 12th February with a combined target of 4,000k to be reached.

Download the app if not already done since last year.

The LGFA are organising a Dinner Dance on Saturday, 15th February in the Templemore Arms. Tickets are prices at €50 and are available from any committee member. Music by Outta Diesel and DJ Colm. Everyone is welcome to come and celebrate their success in 2024.

Shanbally United: The under-12 boys were the team of the weekend when they entertained a team from Araglen at home in the SFAI Cup. After an exciting clash, they came away with a 2-0 victory to put them in the next round of the competition.

Shanbally youths were away to Galbally in a league game on Saturday. Played in breezy conditions, it was the visitors who struck first with an excellent finish by Conor English, who found the net after some inventive play by team captain Jack Shinnick. It lasted only minutes as a defensive error put Galbally in for the equaliser.

The home side stretched their lead just before the break, and Shanbally had to wait until the 67th minute for Harrison Conway to level the game once more.

Galbally United went ahead

once more on 70 minutes, and Shanbally missed a penalty on 85 minutes as the result looked like going to the home side. Conor English saved the day, however, when he grabbed an equaliser in injury time to give us a division of the spoils.

JUNIORS

The juniors were at home to Wilderness Rovers in a league tie on Sunday.

Played in excellent conditions, the visitors took the lead on 27 minutes, and so it remained until half-time. Wilderness Rovers enjoyed the majority of possession for much of the game, but Rovers stuck to their task but found it hard to create chances against a well-marshalled defence.

The chance came with five minutes remaining when Shane McGrath, with a clinical finish, levelled the game after the best move of the day, and so the game finished on a 1-1 scoreline, a point apiece for the sides.

BRIAN BORUS CAMOGIE CLUB UPDATE.

The Club draws playersfroBallylooby, Clogheen, Ballyporeen, Burncourt and Skeheenarinky.

The club fields teams from U6 to Adult level. Our club Mission Statement is to promote the growth of Camogie and to encourage respect, honesty, teamwork and sportsmanship.

Training: Currently we are doing Strength & Conditioning with Fundamental Movements on Ballyporeen Astro on Monday nights from 7-9pm with girls from U9 to U14. This will continue until February 24. Come have a look to see what we are doing!

Training will resume on Monday nights at 7pm in Ballylooby/ Castlegrace Pitch -E21 TA47. Newcomers are always welcome from aged 4.

Miriam O’Shea

News from the Community

FETHARD NEWS by Joe Kenny

Charity partner for Alice Leahy Trust

Phil O’Meara, son of David and Bernie O’Meara, Ballyvaden, Fethard, is the current President of the Pharmaceutical Managers’ Institute. Every December the institute host a charity lunch, and this year their nominated charity partner chosen was the ‘Alice Leahy Trust’. The successful and enjoyable event was held in the Mansion House in Dublin on December 12, 2024. Congratulations to Alice Leahy, originally from Fethard, who was a well-deserving recipient, in recognition of her work with the homeless since its existence in 1975. The Alice Leahy Trust is a befriending, social and health service for people who are homeless, Charity No. CHY7014

Bingo - January 28

After six months of planning, and so many people asking, we are delighted to finally announce that our new Fethard Ladies Football Bingo is starting on Thursday, January 23, 2025, in Fethard Ballroom at 8pm. The club is very grateful to everyone that has worked so hard in the background to make this happen, together with our new team of helpers on our Bingo Nights. Thank you for your patience and we look forward to seeing you there. Please note there will be no Bingo on the first Thursday of each month.

OSA, and Joe Kenny. An enjoyable morning was had by all in attendance with host and musical director, Ann Barry. Absent from photos were members Anita Maguire, Majella Walsh, and Geraldine McCarthy.

Tipperariana Book Fair on Sunday, February

9

Fethard Historical Society hold their annual Tipperariana Book Fair on the second Sunday in February each year. This year’s event takes place on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Fethard Ballroom, from 12 noon to 4.30pm.

The Book Fair was first held in 1996 and has now grown to be one of the largest, if not the largest, book fairs in Ireland. Dealers come from places as far away as Armagh City to West Cork, and from many places in between. It’s a great place to find a book that you may have been seeking for years - and if it is not available on the day you can be sure the dealers will find it for you.

If you have valuable books at home you can also bring them along and get them valued without obligation. Further Information Tel: 086 3777348.

SOME SEATS AVAILABLE FOR ‘JUNO AND THE PAYCOCK’ IN THE ABYMILL

Fethard Players production of Seán O’Casey’s, ‘Juno and the Paycock’, is booking very fast and the remaining seats still available are for Wednesday, and Thursday nights only; Friday and Saturday nights are sold out. Tickets are €18 (plus booking fee) and available online at www.gr8events.ie

Festival dates

Festival Dates for your 2025 Diary

Fethard & Killusty Community Council have two festival dates for your 2025 calendar. Our summer Heritage Day Festival will take place on Sunday, August 24, 2025; and our Christmas Street Market Festival will take place on Sunday, November 30, 2025.

Social Dancing

Social Dancing at Fethard Ballroom on Sunday night, January 26, to the music of ‘Checkers’. Social dancing from 8.30 to 11.30pm. Admission €10, which includes tea and cakes and raffle.

Church Lotto

There was no jackpot winner in the Parish Lotto on Thursday, January 16, 2025. The numbers drawn were 15, 20, 22, and 24. The winner of the weekly draw for €30 was Michelle Walsh. Jackpot for Thursday, January 23, €5,000.

Sports Lotto

Fethard GAA Sports Christmas Lotto draw results for January 14. Numbers drawn were: 17, 18, 28 and 35. No Jackpot winner and one Match 3 winner of €150: Kieran Quigley. One’ lucky dip winner €100: Majella Hayde. Next draw takes place on Tuesday, January 21. Jackpot is €30,000.

RECENT DEATHS

The death occurred on Saturday, January 11, , of Joan Coen (née Delahunty), Knockelly Road, Fethard, and formerly St Patrick’s Terrace, Clonmel, in Tipperary University Hospital, Clonmel, surrounded by her loving family.

Joan will be sadly missed by her loving husband Michael, sons Connie and Ethan, brothers Brian, Pat and Jimmy, sisters Pam, Liz, Toni and Caroline, sisters-in-law Aisling and Thelma, brother-in-law Shane, nieces Jenna, Jordan and Micheala, relatives friends.

Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday January 15 in the Holy Trinity Parish Church, Fethard, followed by burial in Calvary Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

The late Norah Day (née Fogarty), Cranleigh, Surrey, and late of Garrinch, Fethard, passed away peacefully at her home, just before Christmas in December, 2024. Although she had left Fethard in 1945, aged 21, almost eighty years ago, Norah never forgot her home place. She loved ‘tracing’ and talking about people and places around Fethard.

The highlight of her 100th birthday celebration in June, 2024, was receiving the letter that all Irish centenarians get from President Higgins. It was a complete surprise to her and meant so much after all her years away from Ireland. Norah’s funeral will take place in Cranleigh on January 23, 2025. May she rest in peace.

Phil O’Meara, President of the Pharmaceutical Managers’ Institute, photographed with Alice Leahy at the Charity Lunch, where the ‘Alice Leahy Trust’ was nominated as their Charity Partner for this year.

Fethard Players cast members at rehearsal for Juno and the Paycock staged this week in the Abymill Theatre from January 20 to 25. From left: Mary Boland Prendergast, Owen Healy and Pat Brophy.

The Fethard Choral Group members met at Sadlers’ Restaurant, Fethard, on Saturday morning, January 4, 2025, for a ‘Christmas Breakfast’, with invited guests Fr. Henry MacNamara

THE LATE JOAN COEN THE LATE NORAH DAY

052 61 48800

the week in SPORT

Kilsheelan advance in Munster Junior Shield - St Nicholas unlucky in defeat

stunning saves.

Played in fine weather, the home side started well and went 1-0 up on six minutes. Good work by Jack Landy and Tommy O’Connor resulted in a free kick 25 yards out on the left. Shane Garland stepped up and picked his spot in the top corner. On 29 minutes, Tommy O’Connor reacted quickest from a Nathan Dolan free kick to make it 2-0.

The home side were in total control and on 32 and 33 minutes the UCC goalkeeper produced two

UCC were back in the game when a defensive mixup resulted in the ball trickling over the line. On 40 minutes Ben Smith was fouled in the area and stepped up to slot home to make it 3-1 at the break.

After 63 minutes, a great ball from Shane Garland released substitute Gus Nolan who coolly slotted home to wrap the game up. Kilsheelan continued to control but a foul in the box on 75 minutes gave UCC a lifeline but it was hit over.

The rest of the game was played out in similar fashion and the home side reach the quarter-final of a Munster competition for the first time in its history.

second half before Town staged a comeback. Celtic held firm to record a 4-3 win to keep their title hopes very much alive.

Neither team created any clearcut chances in the first 15 minutes of this game but on 17 minutes a Borris player was fouled on the edge of the box and Charlie Walsh converted the free kick to give the away side a 1-0 lead. TMB probably had the better of the remainder of the half with the Cahir keeper saving a close range header the best of the chances.

Half Time 0-1

Two Mile Borris started the second half on the front foot and latched on to a poor clearance and Alex Coppinger finished from 20 yards to put his side 2-0 up. Both teams created half chances but Cahir Park couldn’t get back into the game. With 10 minutes to go Cahir Park conceded a penalty which was converted by Coppinger to secure the result followed by a fourth by Tristan Troy three minutes later. Rowan Barrett scored a fine 30 yard strike consolation goal for Cahir Park with a few minutes to play but it was Two Mile Borris who secured the deserved victory.

A competitive game played on a nice January’s day in Cashel saw Cahir maintain their lead at the top of the Youths Second Division. Cahir took the lead on five minutes through an own goal and they doubled their lead on 20 minutes when Liam Kelly added their second.

Cashel came out in the second half a lot more lively and pulled a great goal back on 65 minutes when Eoin Rice scored a great goal. Both sides had chances in the final 20 minutes but Cahir held on to take the points.

St Nicholas made a dream start, going ahead in the third minute.

Jason Sutton scored after great interplay between Jack Radigan, Jack Downey, and Mike Fitzgerald, whose through ball set Sutton up for a one-on-one finish. However, Aisling Annacotty equalised in the 13th minute, with their No. 8 heading in from a corner against the run of play.

effort, but the

made a fantastic save. Halftime: Ashling Annacotty 2–1 St. Nicholas

St Nicholas started brightly and created pressure, but Bradley McNabb had to be at his best on two occasions to keep the away side out, making two brilliant saves in the 58th and 63rd minutes.

Clonmel Celtic recorded an important derby win to make it three wins from three in the Youth League Division 1. Some first class

a commanding 4-1 early lead in the

The match took off to a quick start with both teams getting forward but it was Cullen Lattin who got the better of the opening 15 minutes and they got their reward through Daniel O’Connell who converted his chance well. Mullinahone grew into the game starting to play some nice football, especially down the flanks with Sean Fitzgerald and Darragh Walsh providing great pressure on the Cullen lattin defence. Tom Lee equalised the game through an excellent corner which found the back of the net. Mullinahone stayed putting the

pressure on with Cullen lattin struggling for chances with the five at the back of Mullinahone not giving any easy opportunities away. Cullen took the lead once again with a peach of a goal from Reece O’Dwyer from the edge of the box after Mullinahone failed to deal with a well executed corner by Sean O’Donnell. This woke Mullinahone up, taking the game to Cullen, whose defence was very resilient. After some great midfield play from Colin O’Brien and Luke Lacy creating some great chances, Adam Houlihan brought the sides level just before the half time break with a very tidy finish leaving the Cullen goalkeeper with little chance. The second half proved to be a very even battle, with both sides having opportunities to take the lead. As the half went on Mullinahone made a host of substitutions which nearly prevailed as the home side went close with Mike O’Dwyer hitting the bar with his headed effort. With the tiring small squad of Cullen Lattin showing great character and determination in their defence while still causing problems on the counter attack. However the sides couldn’t be seperated and shared the points.

again to put Galbally in front on 70 minutes but Harrison Conway got a late equaliser to ensure a share of the spoils for Shanbally.

St Nicholas had chances to regain the lead, notably through Thomas Flynn in the 15th minute, but his shot went just wide. But Aisling capitalised on another set piece in the 25th minute, as their number three scored from a corner to make it 2–1.

St Nicholas came close again in the 24th minute with Jack

ditions for the game good with a slight chill in the air. The first ten minutes, both sides were playing good possession football.

In a tightly contested game in Ballypatrick, in what was the first outing of 2025 for the home side, it ended with a share of the points in a 2-2 draw.

St Michaels started strongly, but the home defence held firm and it was Gus Nolan who put SC&K ahead after 15 minutes following an Adam Moran throw in.

The lead didn’t last long as Aaron Brazil equalised for the visitors from a free kick. Michael’s took confidence from their goal and pounced on a defensive mistake to make it 2-1 at the break, with Luke Webster applying the finish. SC&K put in a strong second half performance, aided by the return of both Sean Hughes and Brandon Landers from recent injury, with Landers providing a goal with a tidy finish from just inside the area.

There were chances for both sides in the final 10 minutes, but both defences held out and it ended in a 2-2 draw in what was an entertaining game.

Tiernan Ryan gave Galbally the lead on 20 minutes. Conor English levelled for Shanbally but Killian Peters restored the Galbally lead before Conor English got his second to make it 2-2. Tiernan Ryan was on hand

After the long Christmas break and the bad weather last week, Peake Villa were finally back in action Sunday morning.

Cahir were the visitors with con-

Villa were awarded a free kick in the 14th minute, and Cian Mitchell found the far post where Darragh Byrne was on hand to square it to Pippy Carroll, who made no mistake close in to make it 1-0.

Villa nearly doubled their lead midway through the half when Michael Quilnan came close, hitting the bottom of the crossbar from a header, but it didn’t cross the line.

Villa did extend the lead in the 39th minute with veteran Alan Leahy finding Dale Loughnane on the wing and his cross found Darragh Byrne who again squared the ball and Ronan Mcguire was on hand to score to make it 2-0.

Half time 2-0.

Villa pressing well in the second half were rewarded in the 56th minute when Cian Mitchell crossed for Ronan Mcguire, whose deft touch found the bottom corner of the Cahir goal to make it 3-0.

In the 65th minute, Pippy Carroll played a great ball over the top into the path of Ronan Mcguire, and he side footed past the oncoming keeper to make it 4-0. Cahir never gave up and got a goal back in the 73rd minute with John O’Brien scoring.

The final 15 minutes saw St Nicholas push hard for an equaliser, creating several opportunities. However, they were unable to convert their chances, and the match ended 2–1 in favour of Aisling Annacotty.

A spirited performance from St Nicholas fell short as Ashling Annacotty capitalised on set pieces and defended resolutely to secure their spot in the last eight of the Munster Shield.

Just before full-time Cahir got a second when Willie O’Dwyer was quickest to react from a corner to make it 4-2 at the full time whistle.

After an opening 20 minutes dominating possession, St Michaels took the lead when Ed O’Dwyer did well to evade the defence and after his shot was well saved by the keeper David Slattery was on hand to head home. Saints had a good chance to double the lead when the ball broke kindly in the box but the forward shot wide. Bansha had a free kick on the edge of the box taken by Robbie Byron but the away keeper did well to tip over the bar, keeping the score at 1-0 going to the break. The second half started with Bansha defending deep, and St Michaels made it two on 60 minutes when a free from the right was headed home by David Slattery. With Bansha forced to push men on to try and get back into the game, they came close to scoring when a Tony Egan free kick just cleared the bar. St Michael’s made it three nil on 75 minutes when the ball was pulled back from the end line and Ed O’Dwyer fired the shot to the bottom corner. St Michael’s saw out the remaining 15 minutes to ensure all three points.

finishing from Finn Napier (2), Jack Aylward and Cillian Fitzgerald had Celtic in

Kilsheelan Utd

Munster Junior Shield

The Kilsheelan Utd team that defeated UCC in the Munster Junior Shield.

Downey’s

Aisling goalkeeper

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the week in SPORT

RESULTS

A competitive game between two sides in the bottom half of the table but lacking quality throughout. Cashel shaded the first half and on 30 minutes had a great chance through Adam Hennessy but he couldn’t break the deadlock and the teams went to the half time break level.

The second half continued in the same vein, both teams not wanting for effort but lacking a bit of quality in the final third. The game was looking like petering out to a draw until two mins into injury time Clonmel Town won a corner and after a scrap in the six yard box Ian Healy somehow bundled the ball into the net to give Clonmel Town the win.

Cullen were 2-0 up on 18 minutes when Micheal Elligott controlled and turned well to play in Tony O’Neill who finished nicely. Cullen were 3-0 up when O’Neill did well to dispossess a Borris defender and finished well from close range.

Borris had a dominate period before half time and were awarded a penalty on 40 minutes but Darren Hueston in the Cullen goal saved well.

Borris starter well in the second half and and Darren Ivors got Borris back in the game with a well placed header to make it 3-1. However almost immediately, Orrin Jones played a one-two with Fiachra O’Grady and O’Grady played in Jones who produced a sublime dinked finish to put Cullen 4-1 up on 68 minutes. Jamie Meaney got Borris back in the game when the ball arrived to him at the edge of the Cullen box from a corner and he made it 4-2 on 79 minutes, However, Cullen got back of top for the final 10 minutes and saw out the game for a 4-2 win.

Galbally opened the scoring in the 5th minute when Mike Donavan converted a corner to give them an early lead. Twelve minutes later, Cathal Flynn tapped in a cross from the right after Powerstown failed to deal with the danger, making it 2-0. Flynn struck again in the 18th minute with a deflected shot finding the net to extend the lead to 3-0. Powerstown’s best chances came from Kevin Kirwan, whose shot was saved well, and Conor McGrath, whose curling corner hit the post. Galbally rounded off a dominant half in the 40th minute when Scott Fitzgerald finished off a quick break to make it 4-0. Second Half Powerstown came out with a renewed effort after the break, with Harry O’Connor’s shot tipped over the bar following a quick free-kick by Gino Lonergan. However, all this pressure was undone in the 66th minute, a wayward back pass gifted Donavan a straightforward finish to make it 5-0. Two minutes later, he held the ball up well, turned and slotted home to complete his hat-trick, making it 6-0. Powerstown grabbed a consolation goal in the 80th minute when Conor McGrath’s header hit the bar, and John Allan Lowes bundled the ball over the line. Full time Galbally 6, Powerstown 1.

A game where the away side had a lot of possession and the home side squandered numerous chances but in the end finished all square.

Nil all at the break the second half came alive when Kevin Browne finished a Dylan Cummins cross. Peake Villa responded with a corner which was tapped home from close range by Maris Baltins. The home side thought they won it when Vinny Godfrey found Olek Ivanov who spectacularly found the top corner. However, Villa equalised late on when Stephen Cahill finished off a flowing move down the right to earn his side a deserved share of the spoils,

Keating who played in Darragh Cronin who narrowly shot wide and on 41 minutes the breakthrough came. A diagonal ball from David Brannigan found Luke O’Brien who swept it wide to Dylan Price who beat two opponents before squaring for a Cronin effort that was blocked by Ian Ivors only for Tommy McDonagh to snap up the rebound to fire to the net. The second half was similar to the first with Ballingarry enjoying large periods of possession and resorting to long balls to try

and force an equaliser, which O’Brien, Mark Campbell and Jason Coffey dealt with. The evergreen Paul Kennedy started to control midfield for the home side with Conor Makin putting in an incredible shift. That said the best opportunity of the half came on 78 minutes when a Michael Ivors free kick was brilliantly saved by Dan Hayde. Not one for the purists but a very honest hard fought game throughout with the home side holding on for a 1–0 win in what is a very tight division.

minutes to go Rosegreen took the lead through a well crossed ball from Brian Morrissey and a lovely finish from Christopher Brabston.

Rosegreen welcomed Burncourt to the village for the home sides first game back after the winter break. Both sides started well and it was the home side who had the better chances early on. Burncourt kicked on midway through the first half and went close to troubling Tyler Barry in the Rosegreen goal. With five

Results January 18 & Sunday 19

Saturday January 18

Youth Division 1 Cahir Park 1-4 Two Mile Borris

Clonmel Town 3-4 Clonmel

Cullen started well and were one up after 10 minutes when

After a six-week break for Christmas and bad weather both sides got back to league action on Sunday last in Grange. The visitors had the better of the early exchanges and the first real chance of the game came when Eddie Mullaly ran clear of the defence and shot wide. Suirside then came into their own and forced a series of corners when Dylan Price forced a fine save as did John Darmody. Next it was Ballingarry’s turn when Keith Cleere, after a sweeping attack, struck the cross bar when it seemed he was destined to score. From then until half time it was all Suirside. Conor Makim played a smart ball into Tom

Mullinahone welcomed Clonmel Celtic to their fine grounds on Sunday morning and while both teams started brightly, it was the home side who emerged victorious.

Johnny Lawlor had a few chances in the opening minutes but it was Eoin O’Dwyer in the 8th minute who took a solo run breaking through the Celtic defence to open the scoring. Celtic then tore Mullinahone apart with a great ball from the centre out to the wing which was put in at pace, Mullinahone deflected the ball into the net, but it would have

Half time.

Rosegreen 1-0 Burncourt The second half was very entertaining and both teams went at it. Ian Collins hit the crossbar for Rosegreen in the 65th minute and a few minutes later Keith Bergin put Rosegreen further ahead with a powerful finish from inside the box.

been a tap in for the striker in any case. Within five minutes Johnny Lawlor and Eoin O’Dwyer had the homeside 3-1 up going into the second half.

Celtic came out strong and Dylan Kiely found the back of the Mullinahone net with a very well placed finish in the second minute of the second half. A great ball from the Mullinahone midfield, cut the Celtic defence in half and five mins into the second half, Johnny Lawlor regained the two goal lead. Tiredness began to show in the second half for both teams, substitutions were made, however the scoreline remained the same until the final whistle, Celtic never gave up and Mullinahone defended well as a unit to secure the win.

Fixtures Saturday January 25th & Sunday January 26th & Saturday January 25

Tipperary Youth Cup

Cashel Town V St Michael’s 2pm – M Freiberg

Galbally Utd v Shanbally 2pm – M Duffy

Cahir Park (A) v Cahir Park (B) 2pm – G Maher

Mullinahone v Clonmel Celtic 2pm – M Corrigan

Two Mile Borris v SC&K Utd 2pm – A Butler

FAI Youth Cup

Castleknock v Clonmel Town 1.45pm

Tipperary Cup

St Michael’s v Cashel Town B 5pm – J Maguire

Sunday January 26

Tipperary Cup

Ballingarry v Mullinahone 11.30 – G Ward

Galbally Utd v Wilderness Rovers 2.30pm – J Maguire

Suirside v Bansha Celtic 2.30pm – P Keane

Rosegreen Rangers v Peake Villa B 11.30 – N Coughlan

SC&K Utd (A) v Cullen Lattin 2.30pm – M Freiberg

Cahir Park (A) v Clonmel Celtic (B) 11.30 – M Jordan

Cashel Town (A) v SC&K Utd (B) 11.30 – M Corrigan

Donohill & District v Vee Rovers 2.30pm – G Maher

Old Bridge v Burncourt Celtic 11.30 – J Lyons

Killenaule Rovers v Dualla 11.30 – B O’Donoghue St Michael’s B v St Nicholas 2.30pm – M Chapman

Clonmel Celtic (A) v Cahir Park (B) 2.30pm – M Jordan

Clonmel Town v Tipp Town (B)

Tony O’Neill crossed from the left to find Danny O’Dwyer at the back post, O’Dwyer showed good feet and finished well. 1-0 Cullen.

Gino Lonergan in possession for Powerstown in their League Division 1 match against Galbally.

the week in SPORT

Syd Blossoms brightest in Rural Open

Unraced

- Busy days at Clonmel Track

GREYHOUND RACING

Last week was a very busy one at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium as the build-up is on for the National Coursing Festival continued.

The Open Unraced Stake renowned for producing some top class greyhounds kicked off on Friday night. This competition is sponsored once again by Helen O’Dwyer from Clonmel and is run as The Rural Kennels Open Unraced Stake carrying a winner’s prize of €7,000.

A fine kick-start this year’s event came with the Jennifer O’Donnell trained for The Born Wild Syndicate The Other Wild and the Adam Dunford trained for Alex Antonlou Clonmoyle Blacky inseparable in the opening heat in 28.66. Thomas O’Donovan trained for Gerard Hutton Radical Mystery took advantage of some congestion to land heat two in 28.84 with Timmy Holland and Siena Murphy’s Brideside Bill running in

LEFT:

Jennifer O’Donnell with The Other Wild and Adam Dunford with Clonmoyle Blacky who dead heated the opening heat of The Rural Open Unraced Stake.

RIGHT: Helen O’Dwyer who sponsors The Rural Kennels Open Unraced Stake with granddaughter Emily O’Dwyer and Rural Aloha.

second in 28.62.

second.

The first of the Graham Holland heat winners came in heat three as Snazzy Boss narrowly held on to win from Toolmaker Josepe in 28.73.

Heat four saw Justin and Pat Muldoon’s Blossoms Syd clock the fastest time of the opening round. Trained in Golden by Graham Holland he was on catchup behind his kennelmate until the final bend before driving through to win in 28.49. Faypoint Ranger having led for most of the contest took the runners-up spot.

Local owner Shari Anne O’Donnell took the fifth heat again running from the Holland kennels with a trap to line performance in 28.74. J.J Scully’s Cloncunny Flash ran in a strong second.

The final heat was a trap-to-line run from Michelle Dwan’s Borna Parachute running from trap one. Getup Me Girl finished quite strongly to take

LEFT: Owner Shari Anne O’Donnell with Timmy Holland and Newinn Vision heat 5 winner of The Rural Open Unraced Stake.

RIGHT: Michelle Dwan with the final heat winner Borna Parachute.

Overall six promising winners but with runs in defeat by others this stake if far from over and for anyone interested in getting a look at what will be some of Ireland’s top youngsters next Thursday night will feature the second-round heats on a special night’s racing.

Also, on Friday night the John White Memorial Guys & Dolls Stake had its quarter-finals decided. One of last week’s eye catching runners Blister Him Jim having produced a trap-to-line run was sold and did not compete in the quarter-finals for owner Michael Egan.

The Adam Dunford trained Imokilly Roxanne a winner last week continued his winning run with a trap-to-line show in the last quarter-final. Owned by Michael O’Driscoll from Cork she showed excellent early and held her line to win in 29.11.

Fethard trainer David Flanagan took the third quarter-final when Sunset Shannon leaving it late denied the long-time leader to win in 29.16.

The Jimmy Power trained Grant A Wish clocked the fastest of the quarter-finals when taking the

second quarter final. Led early on showed a very strong finishing kick to win in 28.93.

The first quarter-final went to Michael Clark’s Croydon Bay trained by Patrick Barrett. Lurking behind the two early leader he found an opening at the second bend and from there dominated to the line in 29.01.

The fully home breed Mallogs Freddie owned by Sean and Rian Drohan from Carrick-on-Suir won his debut race with a very impressive run also on Friday night. Wearing the red sheet hit the ground running and held a strong inside line to win in 29.14.

Yorkie Ollie was a youngster that had tongues wagging last year with runs in Shelbourne in 28.08 and 28.09. Losing his way for a while he showed his ability in the open race of the night leading from trap-to-line. When the pressure came from Lemon Ted he kicked on once again to win in the fastest time of the night 28.38.

TWO NIGHTS RACING AS CATCH UP

Two nights racing earlier in the week with meetings cancelled due to the weather had trainer Adam Dunford landing four winners in The John White Memorial Guys & Dolls on Monday night. Blister Him Jim taking the second heat followed by Ballinakill Liam in the third. First Light then won the fourth and Imokilly Roxanne tops in the fifth.

Quite an achievement in any grade to get four winners on the night.

Cora Doyle landed heat six with Glenbrook Bucko and Paraic Campion from Gortnahoe taking the opening heat with Boozed Mac. Emer Dunne’s Emer Rex eventually got of the mark taking the final race his 14th start to date.

It’s all go in the next few weeks at Clonmel Greyhound Track with the concluding rounds of The Rural Kennels Open Unraced Stake and The John White Memorial Guys & Dolls Stake while the opening heats of The Sporting Press A1/A2 550 Stake and The Clonmel Track DD0/D1 790 will start in the next week all to be run in conjunction with the coursing festival starting on Friday, 1st February in Powerstown Park.

Restaurant booking can still be made with Deirdre on 087 7025259 and early bookings advisable for the busy coursing week.

the week in SPORT

Daire won Tipp’s first Olympic medal in 92 years and CRC were Queens of the Indoors

Down at the UL Sports Arena in Limerick on Saturday last, 18th January, competitors from the four corners of Ireland and a few overseas raiders from the UK, gathered to go head to head on the 60 rowing ergometers for the Irish indoor rowing championships.

With a record number of 2,000 athletes taking part, it’s a good gauge of the healthy state of rowing in Ireland. The administators of the sport can take a bow as they have worked hard to broaden the appeal of the sport through the adoption of para-rowing,coastal rowing and other initiatives. It’s wonderful to see all the different age categories being catered for ranging from 12 to 80.

Spectators and coaches were caught up in the maelstrom of excitement with a number of records being broken on the day. Fastest time of the day went to Adam Murphy of UCC who dipped under the magic six minutes for 2k.

The Clonmel women’s relay team proved once again that they are the Queens of the Relay with a compre-

hensive win over their opposition in a cracking time of 6 minutes 12 seconds.

Kenny McDonald, the fitness instructor at the Garda Training College in Templemore practices what he preaches when he swept home in first place in the lightweight men 50-59 category.

Kate Fogarty CRC and occasional footballer for Munster Ladies Senior Football Champions Comeragh Rangers has an excellent track record at the UL sports arena. In the W j15 time trial she came home at the head of a 23-strong field. She very nearly completed a double in the 500m when she came second in another big field.

Our sole Masters rower on the day was Paul Nugent and he usually makes the podium. On the day he didn’t disappoint finishing third in the mens 60-64 1,000m.

Donnacha Keeley, winner in the 2x at last year’s U23 world championships, had a bit of a panic attack when he stepped on the scales for the U23 light-

weight weigh in. At 2.5kg over the maximum permitted weight, he had to don layers of training gear and go and sweat off that 2.5kg on the rowing machine.

Not only did he lose the weight but he went on to win the mens lightweight U23 title.

The remainder of our juniors put in decent performances with lessons to be learnt along the way.

Well done Donnagh Ryan, Edward Wall, Josh Kiely, Sean Fogarty, Chris Kane, Dominykas Valuzis, Rory Keeley, Cian Mellerick, Oisin Walsh, Brian Hurley, Darragh Noonan, Darren Kane, Nicholas Connolly, James Hurley, Sam Fleming, Gerald Nugent, Lola Cummins, Kate Meehan, Anna Kiely, Siofra O’Loughlin and Eimear Sweeney.

WHAT A YEAR IT WAS FOR DAIRE LYNCH

This time last year, Daire Lynch was gearing up for the biggest year of his sporting life. The previous September, he along with his rowing partner Phil-

ip Doyle had won a bronze medal at the World Rowing championships in Belgrade thereby qualifying the heavyweight 2x for the Paris Olympics. Along the way, they would have to meet the exacting standards of Rowing Ireland’s head coach Antonio Maurovaggio, a broken rib to Philip Doyle and their boat being broken in TWO just a fortnight before the Olympics.

The day finally arrived when Daire and Philip launched their boat at the Vaire-sur-Marne Olympic rowing stadium just outside Paris. Winning their opening round and semifinal in convincing fashion, they went into the final as realistic medal contenders. There was a large crowd gathered at the Kickham Plaza in Clonmel to watch the race on the big screen set up by the Borough Council.

The Romanians sprang a surprise, winning the gold medal, with the Netherlands in second place and Lynh and Doyle won the bronze medal, the first Olympic medal to come home to

County Tipperary in 92 years.

The people in Clonmel went wild, the whole event creating a feel good factor which was repeated a few weeks later for the homecoming for the Olympic heroes.

Since then Daire has enrolled at UCD to study medicine, to add to the degree in commerce which he got from Yale University. He has also made time to visit several schools in Clonmel with his Olympic medal. In recognition of his wonderful achievement, John Kennedy Motors has provided Daire with a Toyota Yaris Hybrid to get around in. When he doesn’t need the car, he can hop on the carbon fibre bike which he received from John Dempsey Cycles in Anglesea Street. Daire is very grateful for the support of these sponsors. Alongside his medical studies, he continues to train away in Dublin.

On this coming Saturday night he will be honoured with the Annerville sports award for rowing, presented by the Tipperary Sports Panel.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT:

A day to remember when the people of Clonmel turned out at the Kickham Plaza to welcome home Daire Lynch and Philip Doyle with their Olympic bronze medal.

LEFT: Kate Fogarty and coach Helen Mhic Chonmara celebrate the win at the UL Sports Arena.

BELOW: The Clonmel women’s relay team proved once again that they are the Queens of the Relay.

BOTTOM MIDDLE: Daire Lynch is set up for the year ahead with a sponsorship car presented by John Kennedy Motors with Andrew Bourke handing over the keys to the Daire.

BOTTOM RIGHT: The ever-Greenane Paul Nugent (left) on the podium with a third place finish at the UL Sports Arena.

LEFT: Jason Monua goes between two Midleton forwards during the AIL Division 2C game at Ard Gaoithe on Saturday last.

RIGHT: Clonmel’s Gerrit Huisamen goes past a couple of Bruff players while on a charge.

Clonmel defeat top of the table Midleton and enter play-off zone

All-Ireland League Division 2C

CLONMEL 7

CLONMEL 28

Report by SCHIRA LANE

Midleton RFC travelled to Ard Gaoithe grounds undefeated for Round 11 in the All Ireland League last Saturday. They have enjoyed the Top of the Table status since the get-go of Division 2C. Whilst they were some 8 points clear of the next team on the table before last Saturday, Clonmel were only marginally defeated 20-24 to the side in their first game against them before Christmas. And as there has been a long rivalry between the two sides for many years, there was a real sense of a Munster Derby as the teams took to the pitch.

The weather was fine and still as the Stand in Ard Gaoithe filled to capacity with a stunning spectacle of supporters decked out in the Clonmel colours. A large contingent from Midleton travelled and there was plenty of noise.

Clonmel started strong with some initial attack. We were awarded the first scrum of the game and secured our put in. Some fine breaks by the backs sent Albert Fronek up the wing. Despite not crossing the line, it was an exciting start.

We continued the attack with dominant carries by Andrew Daly, Gerrit Huisamen and Tony Cantwell. Midleton grappled with the pressure and Clonmel were quickly awarded two penalties in quick succession. Both were kicked softly between the uprights giving Clonmel an early lead of 6-0.

But Midleton came back and started to attack the Clonmel half. The home team were eventually penalised and the visitors kicked for the corner. They won their lineout and followed with a very strong maul. There were a few phases then, when things looked ominous as they continued to drive for the Clonmel line.

It was an immense defence by Clonmel as they pushed Midleton back left and right and it was this defensive effort that left Midleton awarded with only 3 points more in the entire half. It was an all-team effort by Clonmel in keeping them out and great credit must be given to Captain Henry Buttimer and pack leader Tony Cantwell for directing the traffic and keeping the energy strong.

Awarded a penalty, the visitors were successful with the kick and at 6-6, things could have gone either way. But the Cork side were most determined and came back strong. They continued attacking and Clonmel were forced to put in big hit after big hit. It was only when Michael Connellan at full-back gathered from deep that things turned around for the home side. And he used his jinking run to float deceptively up the park. Freddie Davies sat on his shoulder and despite not crossing the line, it was a pivotal moment in the first half bringing Clonmel back into possession.

IMMENSELY SWEET

Several phases of attacking ‘pick and go’ followed where so many of the strong pack were involved. There were great dives for the line by Andrew Daly, Ben Everard and Gerrit Huisamen. What was immensely sweet here was that Clonmel

held their nerve and kept their patience. And it was the long reach of Tom O’Dea eventually that touched down close to the posts. Joe O’Connor kicked the conversion and the home supporters waiting anxiously for the blow of half-time.

But Midleton weren’t done and immediately came back at Clonmel. Tom O’Dea and Bobby Doherty fronted up, in Midleton’s faces, all afternoon. Nothing got out of their sight as they chased and consistently tackled players into the turf.

In a frantic few minutes before half-time, Midleton pummelled the Clonmel line and it was another pivotal moment in the game, that the Clonmel defence matched up and refused to let them in. Both backs and forwards were most instrumental with the hits and pressure. Indeed such was the pressure created by Clonmel, Midleton knocked on the ball and the

teams went into the break 16-6.

Clonmel upped the intensity in the second half and a very attritional 30 minutes followed. Some fine box kicking by Alex Sheehan put Buttimer and Davies into space early. But Midleton kept coming back and indeed it was the defence by Buttimer and the pack especially that kept the scoreline sweet.

Ten minutes in, rotation of the front row brought young Jack Lane into the frey at Hooker and Tim Nugent at loose. Along with Ben Everard, youth didn’t stop them and it was a credit to their power and energy that they won several scrums in quick succession.

Clonmel won three penalties in a row and O’Connor kicked two between the uprights stretching the difference between the two teams. The score was 22-6 and Midleton started to attack again. Fine tackling by Bobby Doherty and Tom O’Dea

followed. Indeed both men were superb all afternoon in keeping Midleton from scoring.

Again Midleton attacked the Clonmel line. Lane, Doherty, and Brannock tackled hard forcing Midleton to spread it wide.

Another big hit by Jack Walsh slowed the off-load giving Freddie Davies the chance to grab an intercept and race up the park. And while several were in Man of the Match contention, it was this break away try to score under the posts that deservedly sealed it for Davies in the end.

The clock went red as O’Connor kicked the conversion bringing the score to 29-6. And as it was all Clonmel now, it was a somewhat annoying end when Midleton scored a late try in the corner. They failed to convert however and the match finished 29-11 in favour of the hosts.

UP TO FOURTH BUT OFF TO ENNISCORTHY

The win puts Clonmel in

fourth spot and there’s nothing between the four sides at the top. It’s the first play-off status we’ve earned in the last two years. And if we can keep this energy and intensity going, it’s a spot deservedly earned to keep. But such is the competition in the division, it’s hard to look beyond the next round and another tough battle will no doubt ensue as we head to Enniscorthy next Saturday for Round 12. All support is most welcome on the road.

Clonmel 1st XV: Tomas Stansky, Jason Monua, Ben Everard, Tony Cantwell, Gerrit Huisamen, Tom O’Dea, Bobby Doherty, Andrew Daly, Alex Sheehan, Dylan Cadogan, Freddie Davies, Joe O’Connor, Henry Buttimer (Capt.) Albert Fronek, Michael Connellan

Subs Jack Lane, Tim Nugent, Diarmuid Brannock, Luke Hogan, Jack Walsh

Man of the Match Freddie Davies scoring his breakaway try

Clonmel

Subdued Nenagh see super run end with shuddering loss to Naas

All-Ireland League Division 1B

NENAGH 21

Report by MIKE McMAHON

Nenagh try scorers: Dylan Murphy, Charlie O’Doherty

Charlie O’Doherty – 3 penalties, 1 conversion

Naas try scorers: Aidan O’Kane, Paddy Taylor, Michel Haznar, Darragh Murphy

Bryan Croke – 2 conversions

Peter Osborne – 1 penalty

Referee: Jonathan Erskine

Nenagh Ormond’s seven-match winning run in all competitions came to a shuddering end at Fournoughts, Naas, last Saturday at the hands of a spirited home outfit who outfought their division 1B rivals to hold out for a deserved 27-21 win.

When the sides met in the reverse fixture back on 7th December, they were only separated by a single point but Nenagh went into this match as red hot favorites. Lying second in the table to Old Belvedere, Nenagh had accumulated 42 from their

first 10 matches, compared to Naas’s tally of only 17 with the Kildare side lying in 8th place and looking not to get sucked into a relegation dogfight.

Nenagh began the game in uncharacteristically subdued fashion and lacking their usual energetic bite but the hosts were clearly up for the fight and it took them only 5 minutes to break the deadlock. A well-executed lineout close to the Nenagh line set up a driving maul from which hooker Aidan O’Kane touched down for the opening try. Experienced outhalf Bryan Croke converted to give his side an early 7-0 lead.

A comedy of errors from both sides following the re-start ended with a simple penalty chance for Nenagh full-back Charlie O’Doherty to get his side off the mark. Having settled, the visitors then enjoyed probably their best spell of the match as they largely dominated the rest of the opening quarter. Inaccuracy and a lack of patience cost them dearly however as they squandered two golden try opportunities during this period.

First of all Nenagh were held up as they drove over the line and they then botched another glorious chance when a well-

worked 5 metre penalty was knocked on with a try looking certain.

The game then became littered with errors from both sides and was turning into a very scrappy affair until 21 minutes in impressive Naas centre Paddy Taylor intercepted a loose Nenagh pass in midfield to race clear and score under the posts. A 14-3 lead for the home team then at half time but there was a feeling that Nenagh had yet to really land a blow of any significance.

The anticipated resurgence from the Tipperary visitors did materialise to a degree as they attacked with more urgency and accuracy in the early minutes of the second half. They got back to within 8 points with a well struck penalty from Charlie O’Doherty but Naas responded immediately and good handling from their backline sent winger Michael Haznar over in the corner to reassert their advantage and stretch the lead to 19-6.

Nenagh got their first try when hooker Dylan Murphy dotted down from a lineout maul to cut the deficit back to 8 points with 20 minutes remaining and the stage set for another trademark Nenagh comeback.

Lessons to be learned for Nenagh Under 16s

Munster U16 Cup Round 4

NEWCASTLE WEST 20 - NENAGH 7

Report by Barry Meehan

The scoreline does not reflect how close this game was but Nenagh ultimately paid the price for not retaining possession for long enough to put sustained pressure on the Newcastle West defence.

Nenagh started well and took the game to the home team but turned the ball over at the breakdown and lineout. Newcastle kicked the penalties to the corner, retained possession and scored two tries to take a 12-0 lead. The rest of the first half was evenly contested and Nenagh finally managed to get a foothold in the game. From a lineout in the Newcastle half the ball was moved wide to Hugo Healy who broke the first line of defense and offloaded to Oscar Griffin. While Newcastle West managed to clear their lines Nenagh came again, went through the phases staying patient in possession until the Newcastle West

defence cracked and Ronan Devlin powered over from close range with Charlie Talbot added the extras to leave the half time score 12-7.

Early in the second half Nenagh laid siege to the Newcastle try line and had opportunities to score again but the chance was missed. As the half wore on the physically bigger Newcastle West team started to take control through their big forwards and excellent kicking game and while Nenagh tried hard they struggled to get into their rhythm.

Eventually the home team scored their third try from a rolling maul. Nenagh were still in the game and a clever restart allowed Hugo Healy to regain possession. The forwards worked hard and carried into the 22 but eventually were bundled into touch.

A late Newcastle West penalty left the final score at 20-7 in their favour.

Our next game is Friday night away to Young Munster night in Round 5.

Frustratingly however, Ormond once again took their foot of the pedal and shockingly poor defence allowed Naas replacement back-rower Darragh Murphy to evade a number of tackles before touching down in the left corner for his side’s fourth try.

Softly conceded tries became the order of the day from the restart as O’Doherty caught the home defence off guard with a quickly tapped penalty to score way too easily.

A penalty for holding on allowed veteran replacement Peter Osborne to slot over a penalty for the home side, bringing the score to 27-18 but there was still an air of expectation that Nenagh might still produce a final flourish to eke out another late win. A long pass to Nicky Irwin out on the right wing looked like a certain try but he was tackled and ended up being penalised for holding on.

When Nenagh secured a kickable penalty with 5 minutes to go, they really had no option but to try to reduce the deficit to within bonus point range.

O’Doherty duly obliged to bring the deficit back to 6.

It was the last chance saloon time for Nenagh Ormond at this stage as they set up a lineout

maul 10 metres out. Half of the home pack seemed to be offside as they thwarted that particular advance and when Angus Blackmore failed to connect with his centre partner Conor McMahon in the closing moments, the game was well and truly up.

In the words of Van Morrison “there will be days like this” and in fairness this is probably the first time all season that Nenagh has produced such a lack-lustre display. With only 7 games left however and now 7 points behind leaders Old Belvedere, there is no scope for such lapses going forward.

Invariably at this time of the season, injuries come into the reckoning and this game saw that list grow with Patrick Scully, Conor O’Shaughnessy and Evan Murphy all sustaining heavy knocks and having to leave the field.

On the positive side, Nenagh have very good squad depth this year and are better placed to deal with injuries with excellent cover options throughout the side.

Back home next week, Nenagh will take on bottom side Shannon, who pushed leaders Old Belvedere all the way before losing narrowly 24-22 in a

much-improved display. A wonderful opportunity for Nenagh to get their promotion challenge back on track you would think but they will know that they need a serious step up from this ultimately disappointing performance at Forenaughts.

Nenagh Ormond: Nenagh: 1. Sean Frawley, 2. Dylan Murphy, 3. Jack O’Keeffe, 4. Craig Hannon, 5. Kevin O’Flaherty (c) 6. Jake O’Kelly, 7. Evan Murphy, 8. John O’Flaherty, 9. Nicky Irwin, 10. Ben Pope, 11. Davy Gleeson, 12. Patrick Scully, 13. Angus Blackmore, 14. Conor O’Shaughnessy, 15. Charlie O’Doherty, 16. Shane Malone, 17. Matthew Burke, 18. Fionn O’Meara, 19. Joseph Coffey, 20. Josh Rowland, 21. Conor McMahon.

Naas: 1. Conor Doyle, 2. Aidan O’Kane, 3. Adam Deay, 4. James O’Loughlin, 5. Koloa Aisake, 6. Muiris Cleary, 7. Will O’Brien (c), 8. Ryan Casey, 9. Cormac King, 10. Bryan Croke, 11. Michel Haznar, 12. Paddy Taylor, 13. Charlie Sheridan, 14. Donal Conroy, 15. Jack Sheridan, 16. Francisco Bartorelli, 17. Stephen Lackey, 18. Darragh Murphy, 19. Cillian Dempsey, 20. Peter Osborne, 21. Derry Lenehan.

Nenagh Under 12s

Our Under 12s welcomed Garryowen to Lisatunny for a Munster blitz on Sunday last. All teams put on a great display of rugby across four matches.

The Nenagh lads are progressing rapidly this season with the boys adapting to their positions and demonstrating a strong understanding of the rules. A huge thanks to Garryowen for providing such strong opposition, and also to all the parents who once again put on a great spread in the clubhouse afterwards. Keep up the good work and keep training!

The Nenagh Under 12 team who welcomed Garryowen for a Munster blitz on Sunday last

Bonus point victory away in Skibbereen maintains Kilfeacle’s forward momentum

Munster Junior League Division 1

SKIBBEREEN 14

KILFEACLE 28

Report by DENIS WADE

With games coming thick and fast and after winning last week it was vitally important to continue with a win in the league, however when the opponents were Skibbereen, who had an impressive away win the previous week against third placed Bandon and we were away from home it was going to be a tough assignment.

Although Kilfeacle form in the league has been good everyone knew that if we were to take something from this game they would have to perform to the best of our ability as a team.

On Sunday last the weather was dry, slippery underfoot and calm. Skibbereen started the game well and immediately pushed Kilfeacle back into their own 22. This was as far as the home side advanced as they met the Kilfeacle defensive wall.

As the half progressed Kilfeacle managed on a few occasions to push further into their opponent’s territory and managed to put together some threatening

Kilfeacle’s captain, Kevin Kinnane, scored an excellent try under the posts in the 77th minute to secure the bonus point win.

attacks but all the while the wet conditions and a marshalled and very large opposition stemmed the tide and using a good kicking game regained any territory lost.

After 15 minutes of Skibbereen having the better of both possession and territory there were signs that Kilfeacle were coming to terms with their opponents and the conditions. After 16 minutes of attrition

between the packs with the defences coming out on top the play was in the centre of the field. Skibbereen were awarded a penalty just inside their own half they opted to kick at goal but their attempt was wide and short of the mark. Immediately Kilfeacle took advantage of the uncertainty in the Skibbereen defence and piled on the pressure. Kilfeacle secured possession and after numerous phases of play had re-entered the Skibbereen half.

In the 24th minute an excellent break through run by Brian Barlow saw him stopped just metres short of the Skibbereen line. Skibbereen resorted to illegal means to stop Kilfeacle’s advance. The penalty that was awarded to Kilfeacle was taken quickly taking advantage of their opponent’s defensive disarray. Luke Heuston took the ball into contact, two passes later Bobby Purcell crashed over the line for Kilfeacle’s first try. Luke Heuston gingerly picked himself up to score the conversion. It soon became obvious that Thomas Fogarty couldn’t continue and was substituted by an impressive Beau Walker. Kilfeacle led by 7-0 but had lost an influential player in Thomas Fogarty.

The reshuffle did not hamper Kilfeacle, they maintained their impetus and started to win some of the battles in the middle of the pitch. In the last 15 minutes of the first half the ‘Boys in Blue were winning ground using their dominant scrum to

great advantage. The consensus from the very vocal travelling supporters was that their team, were playing the better of the two.

The majority of the remaining time was spent in the Skibbereen half however some excellent defence by Skibbereen meant that Kilfeacle were unable to add to their tally in the first half. The half time whistle sounded with the scoreboard showing 7-0 in favour of Kilfeacle and District. Winning by only 7 points meant that the Kilfeacle squad knew that their discipline and hard work during the first half could be eroded in a few short minutes and that Skibbereen could easily have a realistic chance of achieving a vital home win if their discipline and work ethic wasn’t maintained.

At half time team coach Shane Luby let his team know the gravity of the situation in no uncertain terms and Kevin Kinnane urged his team mates to continue on as they had been doing and that their patience and discipline would be rewarded.

The vast majority of the second half became a one sided affair with Kilfeacle completely on top until the dying moments. From the restart, Kilfeacle immediately took the game to their opponents and gained territorial advantage. Kilfeacle were the better side during the first 38 minutes of the second half however they were made work hard every time before they breached a very resolute Skibbereen defence and impact the scoreboard.

It was in the 54th minute two excellent breaks in quick succession by Brendan Barron and Gavin McCormack created the platform for Brian Barlow to crash over the line. Luke Heuston added the two points and Kilfeacle now led by 14-0.

In the 59th minute Gavin Heuston scored one of his trademark tries with a sniping run from the base of a ruck. His brother Luke Heuston slotted over the conversion. This brought the score to 21-0 in favour Kilfeacle.

The game and the atmosphere had reached fever pitch and Kilfeacle were searching for a fourth try to seal another bonus point. Finally in the 77th minute Kilfeacle’s captain, Kevin Kinnane, scored an excellent try under the posts and had se-

cured the bonus point win. Luke Heuston maintained his 100% kicking record on the day with his fourth conversion.

The game was now over as a contest with the score 28-0 to Kilfeacle. Before the restart Kilfeacle emptied the bench with a raft of positional and personnel changes. Skibbereen did not wait for Kilfeacle’s reshuffled team to settle and immediately secured the restart. Two missed tackles, some outstanding quick passing and a highly debated flagged foot in touch later and Skibbereen had scored under the posts.

The referee indicated that there was time for the restart as the conversion kick split the posts. Skibbereen had finally scored 28-7. Skibbereen secured the restart and inconceivably two missed tackles and one superb offload in the tackle later and they had repeated the feat and scored a very impressive and well earned try under the posts. The conversion kick brought the score to 28-14 and was the final act of the game.

Kilfeacle had gained another invaluable away win.

JUNIOR CLUBS CHALLENGE

CUP SEMI-FINAL

The team, as ever, are hum-

bled by the amount of support they receive and hope that everyone will come and support them again next Sunday the 26th of January for the hugely anticipated Junior Clubs Challenge Cup Semi-Final. Our opponents in Limerick on that date will be League leaders Thomond RFC and kick-off is at 2:00pm. Kilfeacle and District’s squad on the day consisted of 1 Brian Barron, 2 Brendan Barron, 3 Richard Whitney, 4 Thomas Fogarty, 5 Bob Purcell, 6 Gavin McCormack, 7 Brian Barlow, 8 Kevin Kinnane, 9 Gavin Heuston, 10 Luke Heuston, 11 Killian Noonan, 12 Muiri Lambe, 13 Jacques van Wyngaardt, 14 Kevin Doyle, 15 James Hogan, 16 Paddy Finnan, 17 Darragh Kennedy, 18 Beau Walker, 19 Cormac Ryan, 20 Adam Crowe, 21 Timmy Clarke and 22 Michael McCormack.

TRAINING IS STILL GOING STRONG.

We are delighted to announce that the training for the underage/younger teams continues every Friday. If you enjoy team sports in healthy surroundings with experienced coaches, great facilities and loads of fun then Morrissey Park is the place to be Friday nights

Kilfeacle & District’s Ricky Whitney put in another grafting performance away to Skibbereen on Sunday last.

Brendan Barron makes the hard yards for Kilfeacle against Skibbereen in the Munster League on Sunday last.

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the week in SPORT

THE VIEW by Noel Dundon

GAA President burns Gallagher as part of ‘Gamechanger’ but no pardon either for Hayes

Most GAA people like Jarlath Burns. They like the fact that an All-Ireland senior medal winner is at the helm of the Association while at the same time is still heavily involved with his own club. They like the fact that he showed great emotion when his county won the All-Ireland football title last year - against many odds - and that he shed tears when his son Jarlath Óg greeted him on the podium having followed in his fathers footsteps.

In Tipperary, we have witnessed a number of visits from Jarlath Burns at different events and the impression is always the same - he’s a very genuine, warm and impressive Uachtaráin who is not afraid to put his head above the parapet when he feels he needs to do so. Of course, when you do that, sometimes you turn yourself into a target - and that’s exactly what happened this week when the story broke about his intervention in the proposed selection of Naas GAA club of Rory Gallagher as their senior coach. Gallagher had been set to join the coaching team of the Kildare club’s senior football squad before the club announced that the former Fermanagh, Donegal, and Derry manager would not be taking up the role.

It later emerged that Jarlath Burns had sent an email to Naas GAA ahead of a club executive meeting, after which the decision was made not to proceed with Gallagher’s appointment. In response, Gallagher described Burns’ email as an “unprecedented move” and threatened

legal action unless the contents were withdrawn - Gallagher stepped back from his role as Derry manager in May 2023 following serious allegations about his private life. His former wife, Nicola, claimed on social media that she had been a victim of domestic violence during their marriage. The matter was investigated but no charges were proffered.

Jarlath Burns’ critics have been quick to point out that the President did not comment publicly when other high profile GAA stars ran into trouble - the awarding of an All-Star to Limerick’s Kyle Hayes, despite his conviction in a serious assault case, was highlighted. But, Jarlath Burns has pointed out that he did not make public the email to the club and that as head of the Association he felt obliged to express his private reservations.

The interview on the Late Late Show where he was hit with some heavy questions by host Patrick Kielty was insightful and the President

handled it expertly. An able speaker, Jarlath Burns made some very convincing arguments under the Gamechanger initiative to back up his actions, though there remains a void in the explanation as to how Kyle Hayes managed to get that All-Star despite questionable ‘role model’ credentials - remember a few years ago you could not get an All-Star if you were sent off -times have changed.

Allianz Leagues set to kick off

Thanks be to God, there will be on-field activities to focus on for the next few months with the Allianz National hurling and football leagues kicking off next weekend. The hurlers have a tricky opener indeed as they head to Salthill - it’s a hard place to get to, and an even harder one to get out of, with a good result.

The hurlers have had a few friendly games in preparation for the league with the Dublin match on Saturday in Fethard Town Park creating headlines following a tetchy encounterthat’s not the first time the Capitalists have come south and brought an element of ire with them. One recalls a similarly prickly game in Dr Morris Park a few seasons ago which resulted in rather liberal use of the ash.

Has the hurling management team learned much from the friendly games? Hard to say. Little could have been garnered from the Laois debacle surely, but maybe the Dublin match revealed a bit more? Time will tell.

The footballers will have their first competitive outing under new boss Philly Ryan in Carlow on Saturday evening. That’s not a simple assignment either but to come away with victory would be a major boost to the squad, especially since they have Longford at home the following weekend.

The footballers’ goal has got to be to get out of Division 4 and enter the championship in a really positive frame of mind. It will be very interesting to see how the players, and all the rest of us, navigate the new rules.

More from THE VIEW anon. Don‘t miss it.

Cross Country season finishes with a flurry of activity

County Tipperary Athletic News

The County Tipperary 2024/2025 Cross Country season was finalised last Sunday in Fethard where the Under 23 and Master titles were decided. Conditions were good and so spectators saw two great competitive races.

First up were the County masters and under 23 women and the men over 65 over a 4km course that consisted of two laps. Right from the start Dymphna Ryan of Dundrum AC went to the front and soon had the rest of the entry well spread out with only Kealey Tideswell of Clonmel AC and Eileen McCullagh of Moyne AC in close attention. Dymphna made every stride a winning one to come home a very worthy Champion over 40 and thus retain her title in style. Then we had Kealey Tideswell also running very well when winning the over 40 silver medal in 2nd place and she was followed home by Eileen Ely who won the over 40 bronze medal in 3rd place. The other Awards winners were as follows:1st 0/35 Marina Quinlan Clonmel AC, 2nd 0/35 Lisa Quinlan Moyne

AC, 3rd 0/35 Carol Molloy Fethard AC, 1st 0/45 Catherine Fogarty Dundrum AC, 2nd 0/45 Suzanne Shine Clonmel AC, 3rd 0/45 Edel Roche Fethard AC, 1st 0/50 Angela McCann Clonmel AC, 2nd 0/50 Sareen Walsh Clonmel AC, 3rd 0/50 Mairead Julian Dundrum AC, 1st 0/55 Martina Ryan Thurles Crokes AC, 2nd 0/55 Isobel Minogue Fethard AC, 3rd 0/55 Siobhan Maher Fethard AC, 1st 0/60 Esme Alexander Coolquill AC and 2nd 0/60 Lorraine Frances Fethard AC. In the Inter Club competition, the Clonmel team of Kealey Tideswell, Carmel Fitzgibbon and Suzanne Shine won the gold medals. The Dundrum AC trio of Dymphna Ryan, Catherine Fogarty and Karen Coughlan won the silver medals. The bronze medals were won by the Clonmel trio of Angela McCann, Marina Quinlan and Sareen Walsh. In the over 45 team Championships, the gold medals were won by the Clonmel team of Suzanne, Angela and Sareen. The Thurles Crokes team of Deniece Touhy, Martina Ryan and Regina Dorney won the silver medals. The host club team of Edel Roche, Aine Doocey and Deirdre Royce won the

bronze medals.

This race also incorporated the under 23 Championships and here Fethard AC made a complete sweep of the awards with gold going to Alison Connolly, the silver medal to Isobel Maher and bronze to Eabha Ryan. These three athletes combined to win the team event and gold medals.

The race also incorporated the Men over 65 Championships. Here Jim St John of Clonmel AC made every step a winning one to win the over 65 gold medal with Matthew Fleming of Fethard AC winning the silver medal and Billy Prout Fethard AC winning the bronze medal. Then we had two stalwarts of the Sport, still enjoying the scene with Matt Alexander of Coolquill AC winning the over 70 title and Myles McHugh of Clonmel AC winning the over 80 title.

The next race was the 7000m race for Master men over 35 and Men under 23, consisting of four laps. Right from the start three athletes dictated the pace and it soon became clear that the winner would emerge from this group. The group consisted of Dermot Gorman Carrick on

Suir AC, Barry Hartnett of Dundrum AC and Emmet McNamara of Fethard AC. For most of the race Barry was setting the pace but he could never shake off his two challengers, try as he might. Going out on the final lap they were still together with very little separating them. As they emerged from the forest with 300m to go, Emmet had gone clear and he held on to win a great race and the over 35 County title. Then we had Dermot Gorman finishing 2nd and winning the County over 40 title with Barry winning the over 40 silver medal. Great running by these three athletes. The other award winners were as follows: 2nd 0/35 Christopher Aylward Clonmel AC, 3rd 0/35 Joey Feery Clonmel AC, 3rd 0/40 was John Fitzgibbon of Thurles Crokes and it is great to see John back competing well after his lengthy lay off, 1st 0/45 Denis McCullagh Thurles Crokes, 2nd 0/45 James Maher Fethard AC, 3rd 0/45 Patrick Roche Carrick on Suir AC, 1st 0/50 Patrick Davoren Clonmel AC, 2nd 0/50 John Russell Thurles Crokes AC, 3rd 0/50 Gerard Hanley Mooreabbey Milers AC, 1st 0/55 Eugene O Keeffe Carrick on Suir AC, 2nd 0/55

Tom Blackburn Mooreabbey Milers AC, 3rd 0/55 Conor Fleming Clonmel AC, 1st 0/60 Fintan Rice Fethard AC, 2nd 0/60 Willie O Donoghue Mooreabbey Milers AC and 3rd 0/60 Tommy Moloney Thurles Crokes AC.

In the over 35 Club event the Clonmel team of Christopher Aylward, Patrick Davoren, Joey Feery and Trevor Whelan on the gold medals. The Thurles Crokes team of John Fitzgibbon, Denis McCullagh, John Russell and Liam McCullagh won the silver medals. The Fethard AC team of Emmet McNamara. James Maher, Fintan Rice and James Denn won the bronze medals. In the over 50 team event the gold medals were won by the Mooreabbey Milers team of Ger Hanley, Tom Blackburn and Willie O Donoghue. The Clonmel team of Patrick Davoren, Conor Fleming and Sean O Dea won the silver medals. The Fethard team of Fintan Rice, Nellie Hall and John Hurley won the bronze medals.

This race also incorporated the County under 23 Championships and here Dylan McLoughlin came home a very worthy winner.

CARRICK

RESULTS

9H S/F W/Ts - 13th January

25 1st Donald Walsh (PH 11)21 pts c/b 2nd Padraig Cullinane (PH 7)

- 21 pts c/b

15H S/F W/Ts - 18th January

25 1st William Walsh (PH 17)35 pts

2nd John Mahon (PH 11) - 33 pts c/b

3rd Terry O’Connor (PH 10) - 33 pts

FIXTURES

Mon to Sun – 9H Stableford White Tees Re-entry

Wed - Ladies 9H Stableford Sat & Sun – 15H Stableford White Tees Re-entry

CAHIR PARK

JOIN CAHIR PARK GOLF

CLUB IN 2025!

Looking to start something new this year? Explore the benefits of membership at Cahir Golf Club. Visit cahirgolfclub.com for membership details, pricing, and a downloadable application form.

FIND THE GOLF BALL DRAW

The latest draw took place on Saturday the 18th January. The envelope drawn was for our club president Marie Devitt but she wasn’t the winner of the jackpot. She picks up €20. Her number was 39.

Next week’s jackpot will be €520

Many thanks to everyone who supports the weekly draw.

THE PRO SHOP

New stock and the latest clubs are landing every week now. Our club PGA Professional Paul Eivers is also available for golf lessons.

LADIES GOLF

We held a ladies stableford competition from December 30th until January 5th over 12 holes. The results are as follows: 1st Chris Noonan 26 points 2nd Imelda Fitzpatrick 25 points

CLONMEL

CLUB EGM

An EGM of Clonmel Golf Club will take place on Monday 27th January 2025. Full notice and details will be forwarded to members.

CONDOLENCES

It is with sadness that we note the passing of our past lady member, Mrs Mary Magner (wife of the late Noel Magner) of Air Hill, Clonmel. Mary served as Lady Captain in 1969 and Lady President in 1986 and on many Ladies Committees over the years.

We extend our condolences to her family Bill, Dara, John and Sarah, her daughters-in-law Marie and Kylie, her grandchildren and extended family.

Ar dheis De go raibh a h-Anam Dilis.

MEN’S NOTES

A very welcomed return to golf this weekend after some harsh and hazardous conditions over the Christmas and New Year period. All praise to the green keepers and the course manager for the work put in over the past few weeks to have the course in such excellent playing conditions after such a difficult spell of weather.

With the conclusion of the Laharts Skoda Series for the year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone at Laharts Skoda for their generous and continued support for Clonmel Golf Club for which we are extremely grateful.

CLUB LOTTO

Kindly sponsored by Europlan Group

Lotto draw took place on Sunday 19th January with a Jackpot of €3,700.

Numbers drawn: 7-11-20-21.

No Jackpot winner. Three matched-three winners: Betty

Ryan, Kieran Quigley, Noreen O’Donoghue.

Next Draw takes place on Saturday 18th January with a Jackpot of €3,800.

Tickets at €2 each and three for €5. Also available to purchase online, QR codes, Facebook.

Vouchers available for all kinds of gifts and presents. Quick Pick Lotto available.

15 MONTH OFFER - NEW MEMBERS 2022/26

Offer available for new members joining from now up to 31st March 2026. If you are considering joining a club, why not give us a call. Full details please contact Aine at the office on 052-6124050 or download an application form from our website www.clonmelgolfclub.com.

LADIES NOTES

Fixtures:

Spring League – 12 Hole Singles Stableford.

Spring League kindly sponsored by Laharts Skoda commenced on Saturday 18th January with a total of 14 teams participating. Details of Teams and Terms have been posted. Ladies, please remember to place entry fee in envelope provided in advance of playing Round 1. Good luck to everyone taking part.

CLUB COMPETITION

Saturday 18th and Wednesday 22nd January – 12 Hole Singles Stableford.

There will be no further draws for partners on Wednesdays because of the uncertainty around the weather. Booking will now be through the BRS for both days.

DATE FOR YOUR DIARY:

An EGM of Clonmel Golf Club will take place on Monday, 27th January 2025.

CO. TIPPERARY GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB, DUNDRUM

SAD PASSING OF JOHNNY HANNIGAN

It was with great sadness we learned of the death of our past Captain of Co Tipperary Golf & Country Club Johnny Hannigan.

LADIES GOLF

Results: Wednesday, 15th January –

Club Day

Winner: Ann English (13)

22pts

Runner Up: Josie Dunne (14)

22pts

Updates: Wednesday, 22nd JanuaryClub Day

Sunday, 26th January - Club Day

Spring League will commence on Monday, 3rd February. Please put your name on the list in the locker room before Wednesday, 29th January.

Annual Senior Citizens’ Party

Our Annual Senior Citizens’ Party took place on Sunday, 12th January and was a great success. Many thanks to all the volunteers on the day.

(See photos elsewhere from the Christmas Party).

President Jenny Lawrence, Captains Marie Graves and Danny O’Dwyer on behalf of the members extend deepest sympathy to his wife Dorothea, son James, daughters Yvonne and Annmarie.

May He Rest in Peace.

LADIES GOLF

Tuesday Morning golf returns January 21th. We will be playing scrambles for the month of January and February and after that singles every second week. If you would like to play in the 9-hole competition on a Tuesday you can contact Pauline Tracey.

Our New Years 9-hole competition continues with two scores to count, you can play as often as you like and €3 per entry.

The spring league will be commencing soon and the first few rounds will be 9 holes, if you are interested in playing you can give your name to Caroline O’Dwyer as soon as possible so the teams can be drawn up.

We are hosting a mixed 9-hole full scramble once a month on a Saturday. Our first mixed scramble will be held next Sat-

urday, 25th January. The team will be two ladies and two gents. Tee times are available on the BRS from 1.30 -3.00pm. Prize giving afterwards in the Venue. MEN’S GOLF: Results of Week 10 of the 9-hole competition: In 1st place Andrew Heffernan with 22 pts, in 2nd place John Grogan with 22 pts. Best Gross Declan O’Dwyer with 20 pts. The winner of the Two’s competition Kevin O’Sullivan received €58.

SPRING LEAGUE:

If you are interested in playing in the Spring League, please put your name please put your details on the sheet on the Men’s Notice Board. This will be a singles competition with your own best scores over 4 weeks. Categories will be in place so you will play within your handicap bracket. Brackets will be made evenly across all entrants. The spring league will commence on 1st week in February.

INTER CLUB COMPETI-

TIONS:

If you are interested in been involved in managing any of our interclub competitions in 2025 please put your name on the men’s notice board. The competitions are the Senior Cup, Junior Cup, Barton Shield, Jimmy Brune, Pierce Purcell & the Mixed Competition.

The Co Tipperary Golf & Country Club Junior Boys President’s Prize winner at Dundrum House Golf & Leisure Resort, Cian Lawrence receives his President’s Prize from President Jenny Lawrence.

Thurles Golf Club’s Ladies Golfer of the Year 2024, Jane Meehan, pictured with Sponsor Peter Broderick and Lady Captain Reena O’Brien

The Co Tipperary Golf & Country Club Junior Girls President’s Prize winner at Dundrum House Golf & Leisure Resort, Andrea Rangelova receives her President’s Prize from President Jenny Lawrence.