Kilkenny Observer 1st September 2023

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Education Allens' 75th Anniversary How learning can be Allens your home and gift store your key to success now in its third generation  See pages 39 – 51

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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St Luke’s needs you!

Kilkenny people are being asked to support children at St Luke’s General Hospital by joining join their play volunteer team, according to Children in Hospital Ireland (CIH Ireland).

With almost 300 volunteers across 14 hospitals in

Ireland, CIH Ireland creates play opportunities and eases the experience of hospitalisation for children and their families. CIH Ireland also provides information and advocates on behalf of all children and their families to ensure they have access to the re-

sources and supports they need before, during and after hospitalisation.

Karen Byrne, Play Volunteer with CIH Ireland, told The Kilkenny Observer: “We would love to have more volunteers join our play team. Play creates a sense of fun and normalcy

for a child during what is usually a very distressing time. We also give the parents a break, whether that is to go get a cup of tea, go home and shower, or even attend to other children. It is a simple service that makes such a difference.”

CIH are looking for volun-

Shake-up sees extra 14 TDs in the next Dail The next Dáil is set to be made up of 174 TDs as the Electoral Commission adds an additional 14 seats.

The change to the constituencies has led to a further two TDs for Cork, with Cork NorthCentral and Cork South-Central each receiving an additional seat.

Four new seats are set to be added to Dublin, with the largest change in the capital coming from the split up of Dublin Fingal.

The former five-seat constituency is set to be split into two three-seaters, known as Dublin Fingal East and Dublin Fingal West.

It had been widely speculated that Tipperary would be separated into two separate constituencies, which has now come to pass.

The former five-seater becomes two three-seaters, known as Tipperary North and Tipperary South.

The Tipperary North seat is set to receive part of Limerick City as well as Carlow-Kilkenny to bring it over the population threshold for a three-seater.

The overall review is significant, with just seven constituencies remaining unchanged since the last redraw.

These constituencies are: Clare, Cork South-West, Donegal, Dublin Central, Kerry, Limerick County and Waterford.

Laois and Offaly have also been

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

teers to dedicate two hours a week to play with children in the hospital. Volunteers must be 18 years or older, Volunteer Co-ordinator at Children in Hospital Ireland Jessica Hurley said: “Our volunteers play a huge role in making hospital a happier

Dance Me To The End Of Love Robert Doyle [pictured] and Cohen Unlimited are bringing their sell out show to Kilkenny’s Watergate Theatre on Friday, September 8.

The show has sold out theatres all over Ireland in the last two years since the show first appeared in Gorey Little Theatre, September ’21. The last tour finished in Waterford’s Theatre Royal, selling out to Cohen’s loyal fans.

split into two separate constituencies, with Laois taking in some of Kildare South and becoming a three-seater. Meanwhile, Offaly will also see an electoral district transferred from Kildare South to become a three-seater.

While Wicklow and Wexford remain individual constituencies with four seats apiece, a new change has seen the area in between the two seats formed into a single three-seat constituency know as Wicklow-Wexford.

This area will take up both the towns of Arklow and Gorey.

Despite some expectations from TDs, there has been no change to the constituencies of Donegal and Kerry.

If a county’s population has increased, but not by enough to warrant an extra seat, then parts of it could be tagged on to a neighbouring constituency.

Constituency reviews are meant to avoid breaching county boundaries where possible, to follow geographical features and to maintain the continuity of electoral areas as much as they can.

Upon the establishment of the Electoral Commission in February this year, it asked for submissions on how the boundaries should be redrawn, and received 556 submissions..

In one submission, Dr Adrian Kavanagh, a geography expert from Maynooth University, suggested Dublin could gain an extra five or six seats .

Full story Page 4

place for children. They are truly at the heart of our organisation and we are delighted to be growing our volunteer team in Kilkenny.”

CIH Ireland is hosting an evening in Kilkenny on Thursday, September 21 for those interested in volunteering.

Hundreds of extra college places Hundreds of extra college places have taken some of the heat out of the CAO points race this year.

The Central Applications Office has made a record 87,075 offers to 57,980, mainly school-leaver, applicants.

It has broken another record, with 59% of Level 8 (honours degree) offers for an applicant’s first-preference course.

Full story Page 6

Remembering JFK 60 years on US President John F. Kennedy famously visited Ireland 60 years ago this year. During that visit, an official dinner at Iveagh House saw the best in Irish food served at a state banquet which was hosted in his honour by Taoiseach Sean Lemass. This Friday, September 1, at the 2023 Kennedy Summer School in a nod to the 60th anniversary of the presidential visit, the state dinner menu will be re-created and served at the Summer School luncheon at the JFK Memorial Park.

Full story Page 10

Parents, kids and social media All parents and guardians know that Social Media plays a prominent role in young people’s life with lots of benefits including connecting with friends, meeting and joining new communities and being a new creative outlet for many.

With many teens spending so much time online now, it’s only natural to be concerned about their online activity.

Special Report Page 14

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

News Robert Doyle and Cohen Unlimited [pictured] are bringing their sell out show to Kilkenny’s Watergate Theatre on Friday, September 8.

The show has sold out theatres all over Ireland in the last two years since the show first appeared in Gorey Little Theatre, September ’21. The last tour finished in Waterford’s Theatre Royal, selling out to Cohen’s loyal fans.

Former Wicklow resident Robert Doyle is a former national newspaper photojournalist who unbelievable only turned professional as a singer the week he got his pension in September 2021 after doing charity shows for 45 years.

The band are all Wicklow-based full-time musicians having played major venues and festivals both in Ireland and the UK but are now completely immersed in delivering Cohen’s words and music to nationwide audiences, apart from Doyle who now lives in Spain and commutes back home to do the shows.

Robert Doyle is a lifelong fan of Leonard Cohen, singing his songs since the age of 14 and met the Legendary Canadian singer/poet when working in Zurich when Cohen asked him to sing for the band after a show.

Already people booked for the show are travelling from as far away as Israel and Spain and the UK. This show in Kilkenny and the following night in Glór, Ennis are the last chance this year to see this show. Doyle tells stories and anecdotes between the songs and a visual display of Cohen’s life runs on the backstage screen.

Robert Doyle and Cohen Unlimited play the Watergate on Friday, September 8.

Thanks for the dance, Leonard

Cohen’s long love affair with Ireland

There were times between 2008 and 2013 when it seemed as if Leonard Cohen had up roots in his native Canada, moved to Ireland and taken up permanent residency in Ireland, most likely at the Gresham Hotel in Dublin, his favourite stay-at place when in town.

In those five years Cohen performed 12 shows in Dublin, Belfast and Sligo.

These concerts showed the kind of special bond between the Canadian artist and his Irish audiences that was an exception to the norm.

There were some milestones during those five years of Irish gigs, especially the first shows in Kilmainham, Dublin and those in Sligo which showed an artist in the autumn of his years, yet at the top of his art.

While his myriad shows came after a number of years of notable absence, he played many times in the 1970s and ‘80s at Dublin’s National Stadium, back then perhaps the only concert venue long before 3 Arena came along or the smaller, intimate venues like Vicar St or Whelan’s.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

News

Hundreds of extra college places offered Hundreds of extra college places have taken some of the heat out of the CAO points race this year.

The Central Applications Office has made a record 87,075 offers to 57,980, mainly school-leaver, applicants.

It has broken another record, with 59% of Level 8 (honours degree) offers for an applicant’s first-prefer-

ence course. That’s up from last year’s record of 54%. For years that figure was around 50%.

Meanwhile at Level 7/6 (ordinary degree/higher certificate), 90% of applicants received an offer for their first preference courses and 99% got one of their top three preferences.

Points remain high overall and many are up, but there

was some easing of pressure, particularly in sharply contested healthcare and education courses.

Importantly, for the highest Leaving Cert achievers, with 600 points or more, there was less use of lotteries to allocate places.

In recent years, as Covidera Leaving Cert grade inflation pushed up CAO applicants’ points, colleges were

forced to make greater use of random selection for the highest points courses.

Random selection means not everyone on the CAO cut-off is awarded a place, so among those tying on the minimum points a computer picks the winners.

With Leaving Cert grade inflation still running at 7%, when compared with 2019, the extra 420 healthcare

€2bn revenue drop halts dairy farmer spending Dairy farmers have put a temporary halt on buying and investing as the fall in milk price this year will wipe €2bn from their revenues, reducing spending in rural communities.

Almost half a billion has been wiped off dairy farm incomes in Cork alone, while Tipperary will lose almost a quarter of a billion in direct revenues, new figures from the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) show, with farmers pulling back from spending beyond the basics.

These counties have large processors and this is where the multiplier effect can hit even harder with so many indirect jobs depending on the dairy sector.

The knock-on impact, according to ICMSA, is that farmer spending has now fallen dramatically.

“From concrete to shed suppliers, to milking equipment to farm machinery, the reports coming back are that dairy farmers have stopped buying and investing,” said ICMSA President Pat McCormack.

“Only the very basics are being purchased and this is going to have a dramatic impact on the local economy.”

This, he said, was an astound-

ing amount to lose from the rural economy due to how much farmers spend in their local communities as many local services and companies were dependent on their investment.

“With an output multiplier of two for dairy, the total deficit from the Irish rural economy could be €4bn for 2023.”

The figures looked at the 26 counties to establish the reduction in revenues earned by dairy farmers over the last two years.

The analysis used an average milk price of 59c/L for 2022 and an expected average price of 37c/L for 2023, with production expected to fall by 2% yearon-year given the weather and price conditions at present.

This means almost 38% of dairy revenues have been wiped away in the space of 12 months and this analysis does not include the severe cost elements facing dairy farmers, meaning dairy farm incomes will be badly hit in 2023, Mr McCormack said.

“While fertiliser has reduced somewhat, most fertiliser was purchased early in the year or last year at inflated prices and, unfortunately, electricity and feed remain stubbornly high.”

places acted as a “valve” for courses with high demand and very limited availability.

As well as 197 nursing places through the CAO system, new routes to nursing degrees via colleges of further education also opened this year, leading to a widespread drop in CAO points for nursing.

While many CAO courses have seen points rise, the increased supply of places

announced earlier this year

by Further and Higher Education Minister Simon Harris has brought benefits.

The places were in courses including medicine (60), nursing (197) occupational therapy (24), podiatry (25) and speech and language therapy (20).

At Trinity College Dublin, points for medicine dropped from 745 to 741.

Kilkenny duo Rise to the occasion Kilkenny farmer Joanne Cusheen and her mother Bridget, who were awarded a €1000 cash grant in recognition of their entrepreneurial use of technology

The Rise Community Fund supported by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) and Granahan McCourt has awarded a €1,000 cash grant to Goresbridge-based farmers Joanne Cushen and her mother, Bridget, in recognition of their entrepreneurial use of technology to embrace new advances in biodiversity and sustainable farming.

In partnership with Macra na Feirme, the Rise Community Fund ran a national competition to find entrepreneurial young farmers with plans to use technology in innovative ways to enhance their business.

Running the mixed family farm, the mother and daughter team have several enterprises to manage, from dairy, sucklers, calf to beef, a small flock of ewes, tillage, forestry, and a brood mare. Joanne Cushen was quick to impress the judges with her desire to use technology to improve efficiencies and lower the carbon footprint of their various operations.

Joanne Cushen said: “Our aim with the family farm is to produce high quality produce from all of our animals in a sustainable way, utilising all available technologies and new research. We have a keen interest in biodiversity and

sustainable agriculture and try to be quick to embrace new technology to reduce our labour input and carbon footprint.”

David McCourt, technology entrepreneur, founder of Rise and Chairman of National Broadband Ireland, said: “Joanne is a fantastic example of a young farmer who is incredibly proactive in looking for ways to use technology to improve the operations of their family farm. By combining technology with her entrepreneurial mindset, she’s not only making the farm more efficient, but also driving real environmental benefits which will make the

farm more sustainable.”

“As a global leader in agriculture, we know that Ireland boasts some of the most talented farmers in the world, and with this dedicated programme awarding grants to young farmers, we’ve been honoured to champion recipients like Joanne who have crystal clear plans to use technology in new and exciting ways.”

NBI is reminding Kilkenny residents to also visit www. nbi.ie to check whether their home, farm or business is included in the National Broadband Plan and to sign up for Eircode specific updates on the rollout.

When walking couples slow each other down Couples often decrease their speed when walking together, researchers report. Couples decrease their speed even further when they hold hands, according to the new study.

Researchers looked at walking times and gait speeds of 141 people from 72 couples.

Participants ranged from age 25 to 79 who walked together, walked together holding hands, and walked individually. Settings included both clear

and obstacle-filled pathways.

“In our study, we focused on couples because partners in committed relationships often provide essential support to promote one another’s healthy lifestyle behaviours, including exercise,” says Melissa Franks, associate professor of human development and family studies at Purdue University.

“We were hoping that there would not be a reduction in speed where partners walked

together,” says Libby Richards, associate professor of nursing.

“We hoped that slower partners would speed up to match the faster partner, but that was not the case. However, it’s important to note that any physical activity or walking— regardless of speed — is better than none.”

Richards says it’s common for people to walk or exercise with a spouse, partner, or friend and doing so increases

the likelihood someone will be active. Americans are encouraged to meet a goal of 150 minutes of moderate activity every week.

“If someone substantially slows down when they are walking with someone else, that could negate some of the health benefits recognised if they walked alone at a faster pace,” Richards says.

There are many reasons to measure gait speed, says

Shirley Rietdyk, professor of health and kinesiology who specialises in biomechanics.

“Gait speed is important to measure because it is related to overall health,” Rietdyk says.

“Typical gait speed is predictive of fall risk, functional ability, disability recovery, and mortality.

“Common exercise interventions, including strength, coordination, and multimodal training, are all effective in

increasing gait speed,” she says. “These interventions can also delay the onset of slower gait speed and help slow the loss of gait speed. No one type of training is better than the other, so do the activity you are most likely to stick with.”

While walking is one of the easiest activities, people tend to walk slower as they get older and may have to find other fitness routines to stay active.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Opinion

The Fact Of OfThe Matter Paul Hopkins

The ‘kiddults’ moving back home with parents Come home now, your dinner’s poured out – The Ma. At one time as you grew in years, through late teens and early 20s and even, in a rural setting, your 30s, the above opening line would have been the norm. But life in Ireland evolved and things moved on. Now, though, it seems The Ma may be again pouring your dinner out for you.

New figures show that the number of young Irish adults still living with their parents has almost doubled in the past decade. And young men are less likely to leave the family home compared to their female counterparts, according to new data from Eurostat.

The latest figures show that 68% of Irish adults aged 25 to 29 were still living at home last year.That compares to an EU average of 42%. For women in this age group, 61% have yet to move

out, while almost threequarters (74%) of men have yet to fly the nest. However, a decade ago, just 36% of those aged 25 to 29 were still living with their parents.

A combination of high rents and a lack of affordable housing means more Irish adults than ever before are unable to leave the family home.

I have no doubt that for some parents of ‘kiddults’ who, because of the housing crisis, are still residing in the box room, such a scenario is not an issue. Indeed, to still have your grown-up children around you can be a joy.

My only daughter, with her husband and two baby girls, lives nearby and that indeed is a joy. My two two sons live in America and that often causes me heartache because I don’t see them on a regular basis. I visited them recently and the trip

exceeded expectations, but oh the heartache of having to say goodbye.

All that said, I would suggest the dynamic of having your fully grown-up child back home living with you could be different kettle of fish altogether.

My late father used to say: “Loving someone is one thing but liking them and living with them is another matter altogether.”

Not long after the Covid-19 pandemic began to ease, my daughter moved back home.

At 39. With her husband and 10-month old daughter. And half a lifetime’s wardrobe that would have left Imelda Marcos looking like the poor relation.

The pair had sold their house in Dublin and were yet to find their ideal ‘family’ home in which to raise my granddaughter in the town where her parents were raised.

There I was the last number of years thinking it was safe to enjoy my newly empty nest, when the last of my three adult children flew the coop for the big city and bright lights of New York, to take on such formerly alien concepts as rent, household

“My daughter telling me what to do... ...

bills and car payments. But, then, wait... who’s that familiar face coming up the garden path with suitcase in hand? It’s my grown progeny!

The first week my darling daughter was home, she attempted to rule the roost, the child becoming mother to the man. Telling me — ME — what to do, what time to get up and what time to go to bed.

All perfectly well-intentioned but I am a bit long in the tooth now to be then told what to do, so I put that scenario very quickly in its place. Likewise the establishment of minor house rules like don’t leave the immersion on all night or have the house lit up like Blackpool illuminations. I figured such early intervention was vital to prevent misunderstandings later on.

Everyone needs boundaries, even grown up married

daughters. I did, however, for that month she stayed with me draw the line on drafting a brief ‘contract’ naming the conditions that must be met in order for her to live under my roof. I was never the martinet.

My psychologist friend from Magherafelt said then I should have been happy my grown-up daughter liked me enough to want to come home. That was true. We are more than father and daughter — we are good friends who enjoy each other’s company and not a little intellectual sparring from time to time.

Besides, my three grownup children should know that ‘their home’ is a safe, accepting place to land when they need to regroup.

And, back then, for that month, I actually enjoyed the opportunity to relate to my daughter as a grownup — just like me!

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News US President John F. Kennedy famously visited Ireland 60 years ago this year. During that visit, an official dinner at Iveagh House saw the best in Irish food served at a state banquet which was hosted in his honour by Taoiseach Sean Lemass.

This Friday, September 1, at the 2023 Kennedy Summer School in a nod to the 60th anniversary of the presidential visit, the state dinner menu will be re-created and served at the Summer School luncheon at the JFK Memorial Park, where EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness is this year’s special guest speaker.

In 1963 based on the advice given by JFK's aides that the President’s busy schedule meant he’d prefer a light meal that evening, Head Chef Pierre Rolland from the nearby Hotel Russell who was in charge of catering the event (and sworn to secrecy with regard to the menu content), replaced his original proposal and served Irish smoked salmon, followed by clear turtle soup garnished with sherry and Parmesan chips, Irish beef tournedos served with a mushroom sauce, new potatoes and fresh peas with butter, finished off with strawberries and cream, to the 80 guests gathered in the ballroom of Iveagh House.

The lunch menu in Wexford will feature a smoked salmon-

Remembering JFK visit, 60 years on

Dublin Bay prawn roulade, served with capers, watercress, Wicklow organic cold pressed lemon rapeseed oil, and garden pea shoots to

Bill to guarantee disability aid Independent Trinity Senator Dr Tom Clonan has introducing a Bill that will make it legally obligatory for the state and the HSE to provide therapies, interventions and supports outlined in any assess-

ment of need.

Ireland is the only country in the EU with no legal requirement to provide the supports listed in an assessment of need or other equivalent document.

begin. This will be followed by slow cooked rib of Slaney Valley beef served with buttered baby potatoes, roast carrots and new season broad

beans (which also featured on the state banquet menu at Dublin Castle for the late Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Ireland in May 2011).

In addition, there will be Kilmore Quay baked salmon, wrapped in Connemara ham, served with kale, stuffing, a Dublin Bay prawn broth, and

green beans. For dessert, guests will enjoy Wexford strawberries and cream biscuit cake.

Assisting in the event and curating the menu for the 60th anniversary lunch at the Kennedy Summer School is Dr Elaine Mahon, Gastronomy and Food Studies Lecturer in the School of Culinary Arts and Food Technology at Technological University Dublin. Dr Mahon, who will also be speaking about the menu to the guests at the luncheon, says: "Nations have been using food for centuries to display wealth, cement alliances and impress foreign visitors, and Ireland’s state dinners have certainly embodied this.

"The very best of Irish ingredients would have been selected by the Hotel Russell. By the 1950s, beef was often the centrepiece of Irish state menus, and this is why we also see it at JFK’s state dinner in 1963.

The menu featured the finest ingredients from all across the country and a nod to his Wexford heritage in the Slaney Valley beef and Wexford strawberries," she says.

"The menu being served to guests who will dine at the JFK Memorial Park in New Ross on Friday will enjoy a leap back in time to that very state dinner menu for JFK in 1963 on the 60th anniversary of his visit to his ancestral home place.”

Tickets to the luncheon are sold out. However, a limited number of tickets remain for some of the events which will take place across New Ross for the annual Kennedy Summer School.

The annual Kennedy Summer School is set to host a number of expert discussions and is billed as 'A Festival of Irish and American history, politics and culture.

There will be more than 60 guest speakers participating with Her Excellency, Canadian Ambassador Nancy Smyth, set to open the occasion.

Sports fans will be enthused to learn that football legend Martin O’Neill will also be taking to the stage to discuss his extraordinary life in football and share his views on the future of the beautiful game.

The weekend will be filled with panel discussions, debates and public interviews and addresses and the Kennedy Tea Party hosted by RTE’s Eileen Whelan. An expert panel will discuss the 50th anniversary of Ireland’s membership of the European Union with moderator Alex White SC, joined by Patrick Honohan, Suzanne Lynch, Lucinda Creighton and Dermot Murnaghan.

The Saturday interview will see a husband and wife political duo take to the stage to discuss their opposing political viewpoints.

Democratic political consultant James Carville and Republican political consultant Mary Matalin. An expert panel is also set to discuss ‘Celebrity Politics’.

For further details and tickets for the 2023 events see www. kennedysummerschool.ie or call St. Michael’s Theatre on 051 421255. The Kennedy Summer School and Festival is run in association with the Office of Public Works, New Ross District Council, Wexford County Council, Boston College, Purdue University & Failte Ireland.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Some interesting questions for the banks Money and morality make strange bedfellows, and there is no telling how that relationship will work out in different situations. And there have been plenty of examples of different attitudes in the last couple of weeks to the stuff that makes the world go around.

I used to love the story of Robin Hood and his Merry Men who robbed the rich to give to the poor, lived sustainably in Sherwood Forest and were the scourge of the Sheriff of Nottingham who was enforcing unjust taxes on people. Robin was just doing a spot of income redistribution before there were tax inspectors to do the job, nothing wrong with that.

There was more than a touch of Robin Hood in the story last week of punters who queued at ATMs to withdraw money they didn’t have

when the Bank of Ireland suffered a technical glitch. It was as though a whole lot of slot machines had suddenly started spewing out winnings to folk badly in need of a financial transfusion.

The story gives me the same kind of feelings that Robin the heroic outlaw aroused.

If anyone deserve the Robin Hood treatment it’s the banks.

Now I know that two wrongs don’t make a right but the banks have effectively been robbing their customers and treating them unjustly. Back in the day I used to think bankers were kindly types, there to mind your money, pay you interest on it or lend you funds if you needed them. But they haven’t been doing that – not in the way they should, quite aside from the fact that they brought this country to its knees in the

financial crash a decade and a half ago.

What they should do is to take in savings and deposits and then lend that money out to others as credit to make our own green bit of the world go round. The savers should get interest and the borrowers should be charged interest at a higher rate and the difference between the two is where the banks make their profits.

Lots of profits, last year the Bank of Ireland had profits of €1.1b. Half way through this year they have already made a €1.2b. pre-tax profit, a 192% increase. The banks here charge the highest interest rates on mortgages in Europe.

And let’s not forget that BOI were fined €100m. by the Central Bank for the way they treated people with tracker mortgages..

The banks haven’t been

doing things as they should.

They aren’t giving interest or virtually none to savers and depositors although the interest rate set by the European Central Bank ECB has risen from 0 % 13 months ago to 4.5% and have been trousering interest which should have been passed on to savers. They are reported

Robbed the rich to give to the poor...

to have passed on only a 7.% fraction of this although they haven’t passed on the full interest hike to mortgage holders yet. One estimate suggests that savers are currently being cheated of around €120m. a month. The so called pillar banks (we now have only two main banks BOI and AIB) are to be called before an Oireachtas Committee this month and are being pressurised by Minister for Finance Michael McGrath to increase rates to savers in Government-backed schemes.

They should be lending to help the economy, but they are being miserly with what is, in effect, our money and Ireland ranks alongside undeveloped countries at 90th in the world for domestic credit, according to the Global Innovation Index. The banks were lending just over

a quarter of national income in 2021, leaving small business, in particular, starved of credit and putting the brakes on all kinds of enterprises like small building companies and look what that feeds into – the housing crisis.

So, yes it wasn’t right of the ATM raiders to do what they did, but no I don’t have any sympathy for banks, our current Sheriff of Nottingham, who are morally in the wrong and appear to have learned nothing from their bail-out at our expense 15 years ago.

Why wait for the Government to call them to heel?

Why not if you are a saver call in to your branch, and ask about interest you may be due and enquire too about having it backdated.

Morality and business don’t always co-habit.

See John Ellis Page 16

How to reduce cholesterol naturally CLAIR WHITTY

I often get asked how to reduce cholesterol naturally. My cholesterol was high and I knew it was related to diet, hormonal changes, and stress and that it was time to do something about it. Other factors that can contribute to high cholesterol include; lack of physical activity, alcohol, smoking, and being overweight. High cholesterol can run in families.

The body needs cholesterol to build cells and hormones. In fact we would die if we had no cholesterol. But high choles-

terol is considered one of the risk factors for cardiovascular problems including heart attack and stroke. I see many customers at the shop who are looking for a natural solution to reduce levels.

Here’s what I did, I took Higher Nature Red Sterol Complex. It contains Red Yeast Rice, plant sterols, policosanol, and cinnamon bark. Red Yeast Rice is considered by many to act as a natural alternative to statins, as both contain monacolin K. Plant Sterols have been found to help block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet. I also took One Nutrition CoQ10, it’s an important nutrient for heart health energy, and energy production in

general. I also took Omega 3 fish oils because they can help to lower LDL, the bad cholesterol, and reduce triglyceride levels to healthier levels.

Dietwise, you don’t have to make all of these changes that I made. I reduced sugary foods, snack bars and treats. I cut back on butter and mayonnaise as I use far too much of these. It is just as important to eat healthy foods as it is to avoid the bad ones. I ate more oily fish, oat-based foods, and plenty of vegetables, I ate more apples too. Lecithin granules are used to help metabolise fats in the body, they can be added to any food or taken directly from the spoon.

I added in Inulin too, this is a source of fibre. I now regularly drink Salus House Hawthorn Tea as hawthorn is traditionally used for heart health.

These were the main changes I made.

The great news is, my total cholesterol is now down to healthier levels, it’s down from 6.6 to 5.4 in approximately 3 months. I am happy with this and I will continue with this protocol for another while.

Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.

Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

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SPECIAL REPORT/BACK TO SCHOOL All parents and guardians know that Social Media plays a prominent role in young people’s life with lots of benefits including connecting with friends, meeting and joining new communities and being a new creative outlet for many. With many teens spending so much time online now, it’s only natural to be concerned about their online activity, especially when it comes to social media.

You may wonder why teens spend so much time on social media, or worry about cyberbullying or that your child may be contacted by strangers behind a screen. Overall, you’re just concerned about their well-being and whether social media is the best thing for them to be spending a lot of time on.

With your child heading back to school, now is the perfect time to check in about social media, according to Webwise, the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre, cofunded by the Department of Education and co-financed by the European Commission. Being available to listen to them as they navigate the ups and downs of social media is key to helping them make the most of it.

Jane McGarrigle, Project Officer at Webwise, has put together a few some salient advice for keeping your teen safe online. Webwise offers a wide range of free resources to help families and schools to support children and teens online.

The various platforms There are lots of social media platforms available to teens in Ireland, with Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube among the most popular. While new apps come along all the time, many of the features remain the same for each platform for example; most social networks allow for messaging, sharing photos/videos, live streaming and following/ connecting with others. Understanding these features and helping establish rules around these is a good starting place for parents.

It can be hard to keep up to date with the latest apps our teens are on and parents feel like their kids know more than they do,” Jane McGarrigle says. “You can find out about the most popular platforms Irish teens are using on the Webwise Parents Hub. Everything from BeReal to TikTok is explained in plain english without the jargon.”

Communicate Having regular and open conversations with your children about their lives online is vital to ensuring that they have a safe and positive experience.

A good way to get them to open up is to ask what they like about the social media

How to ensure your child is safe on social media

they use. Staying in touch with friends, learning new things, or keeping up with their favourite celebrities are some of the reasons why your teen might like using social media.

When approaching the conversation, there’s a few things to keep in mind. For starters, keep an open mind, avoid criticism or judgement.

What teens do on social media is important to them and we shouldn’t dismiss it as something novel. Don’t overreact or scaremonger, keep it relevant and based on your child’s interests and experiences. Help connect with your teen by sharing your own stories or getting them to show you how different features work on platforms.

Having an open dialogue

means if something goes wrong then your child is more likely to speak to you about it. Remind them if something upsets them online, they can come to you or another trusted adult.

Privacy The next step you can take is to ensure your teen knows about privacy settings on each site. You may not be an expert on social media, but there are great resources on Webwise that outline everything you need to know from updating privacy settings to reporting and blocking features.

Explain to your teen the importance of letting only their friends see what they post and keeping information about themselves in a

small circle. It’s important to remind them that no matter what their privacy controls are, anything they post online can be copied and shared to a wider audience. Advise them to be mindful that things they post may have a longer life online than they anticipate.

Help your teen to develop good online habits – setting social media accounts to private and reviewing their followers,” Jane McGarrigle says.

Cyberbullying Establishing a good, open relationship around social media can pay off in the long run. Should your child be the victim of cyberbullying, they’ll want you to be able to understand and offer them advice on how to solve the issue.

Banning your child from using social media as a result of a bad experience might only serve to drive them away from you. You know your child better than anyone else.

If your child is a victim of online bullying, listen supportively to what they have to say, and avoid overreacting or banning technology.

You can report abuse on social media sites, as well as block those engaging in bullying. Prevention is always better than cure. We can encourage more positive con-

nections – getting permission before posting pictures for example. Talk about being a good friend online, supporting others who may be targeted and also ensuring your teen knows what to do if something goes wrong. They can talk to you and report it to the platform.

The issue of online bullying is constantly evolving and can be difficult to identify and combat for parents, but you can read an in-depth breakdown of cyberbullying and ways to prevent it on Webwise.

Getting it right Worrying about the impact social media can have on their teen is a common issue for parents. It can have a big influence on your child’s life, from questioning their body image to being exposed to harmful content or misinformation. It is important that we have a critical lens when using social media, as it’s not always a reflection of the real world and many teens can feel pressure to look a certain way.

Have a chat about who they are following and help them curate a healthy newsfeed, by following appropriate accounts and things that interest or benefit them,” Jane said.

Advise your child to spend some time off social media

too.

Encourage them to form strong in-real-life connections outside of social media and establish rules at home to encourage tech-free times, particularly at night time.

Staying safe Help your teen stay safe online as they start the new school year. Remember that, as Jane said, “The most important thing you can do to support your teen online is by having regular discussions.”

We understand that some of these chats are not easy to have particularly around porn or sexting and parents don’t know how to start the conversation. A great starting point is the Webwise Parents Hub - you’ll find talking points for all those hard to have conversations,” Jane McGarrigle says. * This article is brought to you by the Department of Education. Webwise is the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre. Webwise is co-funded by the Department of Education and cofinanced by the European Commission. Webwise.ie promotes safer, better Internet use through awareness raising and education initiatives targeting teachers, children, young people and parents.

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

The banks: putting profit before people The Irish banking sector are in the cross-hairs again.

Mortgage holders, particularly those on tracker mortgages have born the full weight of recent rate hikes while deposit holders have seen little of the ‘extra income’. Yet, the banks are proposing to lavish share options on their executives because of huge profits.

A recent survey conducted by renowned rating agency S&P has brought to light the striking difference between Irish banks and their European counterparts when it comes to rewarding depositors in line with higher interest rates. The report shows that, while UK banks have passed on 43% of the rate rises to savers, Irish banks have only offered a meagre 7% in comparison. The euro area average stands at 20%.

Italy passed on only 11% of the recent rate hikes to savers, prompting the Italian

Government to impose a once off 40% windfall tax on banks. The surprise move was agreed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ministers at a cabinet meeting earlier this month, vowing to invest the funds raised into helping households and businesses struggling with the cost of borrowing.

I can’t see our Government bringing in a windfall tax any time soon even in spite of John McGuinness, Chairman of the Oireachtas Finance Committee, calling on the Government to “to take a strong hand” with the banks and insist they increase their interest rate on deposits.

Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris recently said it was “utterly offensive” for Irish banks to be “complete and utter laggards” in passing on interest rate increases to savers.

“The extent of the profits now being made by banks re-

porting €1 billion in the first six months of a year is huge,” he told RTÉ Radio One. “The fact [is] that the interest rates are now increasing and depositors – those that have money on deposit – are largely being ignored. I think it’s time for the Government to take a strong hand in relation to this.”

Minister of Finance Michael McGrath said the windfall tax was not the proper way to go but threatened the banks with a review of the bank levy; he planned to review the scope and scale of the State’s bank levy in the Budget if the banks continued to fail to reward their deposit holders.

The banks are in the driving seat, grappling with an influx of deposits and a dearth of loans, aggravated by the departure of KBC and Ulster Bank from the market. This lack of competition is certainly not helping, with only

three major players remaining in the Irish banking sector offering deposit interest rates, meaning they can dictate terms leaving depositors with limited options for better returns.

The deposit profile of these banks is far from balanced as a significant amount of the funds are held in current accounts which attract little to no interest, while demand deposit accounts yield negligible returns. This sharply contrasts with the situation ten years ago when a majority of deposits were in some form of term deposits.

Compounding this issue, the European Central Bank used to charge negative interest on current accounts and demand deposits between 2014 and 2022.

However, after a shift in rates, Irish banks are now able to deposit this cash with the ECB, reaping substantial profits. As a result, “current

accounts have become the new focal point for profitability”, encouraging banks to prioritise these over higher-yielding term deposits.

Why wait for the Government or the Central Bank to intervene? The responsibility to get better value for your money remains with you. You need to consider options.

One such option is Raisin. ie, an online deposit broker, which offers considerably higher rates than Irish banks. The platform provides an opportunity to access European banks with attractive offers, promoting a more diversified approach to savings and they are all subject to their respective national Deposit Guarantee Schemes. The deposits you contract through Raisin Bank are therefore secured up to €100,000 per person and bank. At time of writing, the best five-year fixed-

term rate offered via Raisin Bank for someone with up to €100,000 to put away is 3.50% from Younited Credit in France.

Furthermore, Irish insurers such as Zurich and Standard life are offering attractive deposit returns for demand and longer-term investment policies with established institutions.

The current climate in the Irish banking sector paints a disheartening picture of profit before customer.

The disparity between the impact of rate hikes on mortgage holders and depositors underscores the urgent need for a more balanced and ethical approach. As the banks thrive we all need to explore alternative options and demand greater transparency and fairness from financial institutions. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362622

Electricity prices must come down for Carlow Kilkenny households to reflect lowest wholesale price in two years BY: DEPUTY KATHLEEN FUNCHION SINN FEIN TD FOR KILKENNY CARLOW Carlow Kilkenny Sinn Féin TD, Kathleen Funchion, has called on the government and regulator to ensure that the decrease in wholesale electricity prices is urgently passed on to ordinary workers and families across Carlow and Kilkenny.

Teachta Funchion was commenting on the recent figures from the CSO which report that wholesale electricity prices have fallen to their lowest point in two years.

Teachta Funchion said: “According to the wholesale price index, electricity prices have fallen to a two year low.

This follows a 17.9% reduction between June and July, and a 64% drop when compared to July last year. These reductions are not being felt by householders here in Carlow and Kilkenny.

“It is absolutely essential that these savings are passed onto consumers with immediate effect. It is totally unacceptable that ordinary workers and families continue to suffer under the weight of sky high energy bills while prices and

profits continue to soar.

“Despite the fact that retail prices are falling all over Europe, Ireland remains an outlier, with our electricity bills an eye-watering 80 percent above the EU average.

“According to the CRU’s latest figures, the average annual domestic electricity bill is between an eyewatering €2023 - €2886. There have been massive increases in arrears and disconnections during the first half of this year. Between February and May there has been an increase of over 10% in the number of households in arrears (364,131 to 405,997).

This means that there are now over 400,000 households in arrears. The figures for domestic electricity arrears are particularly alarming.

From February this year to the end of May, the number of households in arrears shot up by almost 30,000 to a staggering 240,791.

Unsurprisingly, energy poverty is at an all-time high.

“These figures

are shocking. They are the inevitable consequence of a government and a regulator that continues to allow energy companies to run rough-shod over consumers.

“In February and March, the Taoiseach and Minister for the Environment, Eamon Ryan, told us that the government would ensure energy companies bring prices down; that this would be more than ‘polite encouragement.’ It is now August and despite wholesale prices falling further, nothing has changed.

Instead the government and regulator seem content to act as mere commentators.

Whether incompetence or negligence, it is clear a stepchange is needed.

“Winter is fast approaching and many families risk not being able to keep the heat and lights on if things continue as they are. repeat “Sinn Féin has repeatgov edly called on the govregula ernment and the regulator to get to grips with the chaos that reigns in Ireland’s energy market. If today’s most recent news is anything to go by, It is high-time they heeded those calls.”

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News Science & Wellbeing In any one lifetime, your personality can change — sometimes in big ways. But psychologists didn’t always think this to be true. While one’s personality — that is, their broad pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours — might subtly shift at a peripheral level, scientists considered it to be largely fixed or somewhat subtle.

There is the old adage that one’s characteristics become more pronounced as one gets older.

Ultimately, long-term studies measuring movements in a person’s ‘Big Five’ personality traits have changed psychologists’ minds. As people grew older, these quintessential characteristics shifted. The Big Five traits are: (1) conscientiousness(how impulsive, organised, and disciplined someone is) (2) agreeableness(how modest, trusting, and caring they are) (3) extraversion(whether a person seeks excitement and social interaction) (4) openness to experience(someone’s curiosity and penchant for routine) (5) neuroticism(a person’s overall emotional stability).

But what triggers these personality changes? Recently, researchers have considered the impact of significant life events. Across dozens of studies published in the past 30 years, scientists have attempted to measure changes to the Big Five personality traits that occur following major family, career, and relationship events.

Last year, a team of scientists from institutions in Germany and Switzerland pooled all this research and conducted analysis to discern the broad findings. In their completed research paper published in the European Journal of Personality, they revealed the life events most likely to alter someone’s personality.

How life’s events can change your personality

The authors focused on 10 life events: (1) entering a new relationship (2) marriage

(3) birth of a child (4) separation (5) divorce (6) widowhood (7) graduation (8) entering one’s first job,

(9) unemployment (10) retirement They found 44 studies that tracked subjects’ Big fFve personality traits before and after

these events, and the studies included 121,187 participants in total, almost all from Western countries.

The researchers found that graduation, one’s first job, a

One’s characteristics become more pronounced as one gets older...

new relationship, marriage, and divorce were linked to the greatest personality changes.

Specifically, a new relationship and divorce appeared to make participants more conscientious — that is, they grew more dutiful and disciplined.

One’s first job also boosted conscientiousness to an even greater degree. Marriage was linked to a decrease in openness, as people became more predictable and averse to change. Graduation lowered neuroticism, as subjects grew calmer and more confident.

All the effects were fairly small, but the authors say they could equate to big personality changes over time.

Prior work has revealed that our personalities often ‘improve’ with age. In what psychologists have dubbed ‘the maturity principle’, people tend to grow more extraverted, agreeable, and conscientious as they grow older, and less neurotic. The transformation is gradual, essentially unnoticeable to the individual, but after many years, almost everyone can reflect on their past selves and be amazed at the differences.

As the new meta-analysis suggests, certain life events seem to accelerate this personality-changing shift.

Growing link between obesity and dementia New research shows there is a link between obesity and the risk of developing dementia. Exactly why is unclear, but research published in the past few years shows that being overweight or obese is associated with reduced grey matter volume throughout the brain, and this may contribute to cognitive decline.

Now, a new study shows that the volume of the hypothalamus — a brain region that controls appetite and satiety, among many other bodily functions — is significantly increased in people who are overweight or obese.

The findings, published in the journal NeuroImage: Clinical, are in line with evidence from animal studies linking inflammation of the hypothalamus to a high-fat diet, but they do not determine whether the observed

changes are a cause or an effect of obesity.

Regulating everything from body temperature and blood pressure to sex drive and sleep, the hypothalamus is a small structure located deep inside the brain. Our under-

standing of its role in regulating appetite comes from animal studies showing that distinct hypothalamic nuclei (that is, clusters of neurons) produce hormones that promote and suppress appetite.

Together, these nuclei form a

neural network that controls food intake and energy expenditure.

The human hypothalamus is difficult to visualise because of its small size.

Stephanie Brown of the University of Cambridge and her

colleagues used a machine learning algorithm to examine the structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 1,351 young adults with body mass indices (BMIs) ranging from underweight to obese.

They found that BMI was closely related to the volume of the hypothalamus, with the overall volume of the structure being significantly larger in the overweight and obese participants. These differences were most apparent in those regions known to regulate appetite and satiety.

It is not clear if the observed structural changes are a cause or a consequence of being overweight or obese. The researchers say that this could be determined in the future with longitudinal studies that measure hypothalamic vol-

ume over time.

The results are, however, consistent with previous findings in animal models of obesity that show that consumption of a high-fat diet is associated with inflammation of the areas of the hypothalamus involved in energy homeostasis.

These models suggest that inflammation occurs before weight gain, by means of a complex signalling process that increases expression of inflammatory cytokines in the hypothalamus.

“If what we see in mice is the case in people, then eating a high-fat diet could trigger inflammation of our appetite control center,” says Brown. “Over time, this would change our ability to tell when we’ve eaten enough and how our body processes blood sugar, leading us to put on weight.”

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Travel & Leisure

Five worth seeing in Vancouver 1. Yaletown Once rife with sawmills and shingle mills, Yaletown was a warehouse district that served as the Western terminus of the Canadian Pacific Railway in Vancouver’s early history.

Bounded by Homer Street to the west, Robson Street to the northeast, and False Creek to the south, this fashionforward shopping district has since earned a reputation as one of Vancouver’s ubertrendy neighbourhoods. It’s where you’ll find many of the glittering skyscrapers that dominate the city’s skyline.

Housed in old-school brick buildings, Yaletown’s upscale restaurants, designer boutiques offering haute couture for your furry friends, and swanky bars that spill out onto the pavement invite you to splurge. For lowcost experiences, spend an afternoon at the leafy parks of David Lam and George

Wainborn and bike, stroll, or rollerblade along the seawall while enjoying spectacular views of False Creek.

Within walking distance from West 4th is Kits Beach, a summertime hotspot for volleyball players, stand-up paddleboarders, kayakers, and sun worshippers who descend on the stretch of sandy shore, making this one of the top beaches in the city.

The 449-foot-long outdoor Kitsilano Pool is Vancouver’s only saltwater pool and is an ideal spot to cool off while overlooking the beach.

2. Gastown Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood on the south side of Burrard Inlet in downtown Vancouver owes its existence to John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton, a riverboat captain who was believed to be one of the area’s earliest settlers. The opening of his

saloon in 1867 attracted a slew of other businesses, forming Vancouver’s first downtown. Though Gastown was demolished in a city-wide fire in 1886, its structures were quickly restored.

Brimming with historic charm, a stroll along the gently lit cobblestone streets reveals Indigenous galleries, hipster cafes, indie boutiques, and tacky souvenir shops, all housed inside late-19th century Victorian Italianate style and early-20th century Victorian Romanesque Revival style heritage buildings. Stroll down Water Street and snap a photo at the Gastown Steam Clock, the area’s most recognised landmark.

By night, this fashion-forward retail and commercial district serves as the city’s party hub, and its bar-crammed streets entice those looking for innovative craft cocktails or a

rowdy night out.

3. Chinatown Canada’s largest Chinatown was first established in 1886 when roughly 90 Chinese residents occupied the area.

Centred on Pender Street, this neighbourhood just south of Gastown is bordered

by Taylor Street to the west and Gore Avenue to the east. Uncover the vibrant history of Chinatown through artifacts, photos, and voice recordings that date back to the 1880s at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, which also pays homage to the Chinese population that originally settled here to help build the most challenging section of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Bask in zen as you stroll along the covered walkways Despite being rooted in tradition, Chinatown’s newer additions, like hip cocktails and dumpling bars also make

this neighbourhood a hotspot for modern fusion cuisine.

4. South Main Dubbed ‘SoMa’ this part of Mount Pleasant in East Van encompasses the stretch of Main Street between East 2nd and East 33rd Avenues.

Earning its reputation as Vancouver’s hipster haven, SoMa is home to an eclectic collection of craft breweries, innovative vegan and vegetarian restaurants, barber shops, and indie cafes where digital nomads sip locally roasted coffee while perched on their laptops.

Work your way through SoMa from north to south, stopping in at the shops that boast all things retro, enticing treasure hunters after anything from vintage fashion to vinyl records. End your trek by enjoying a panoramic view of the city at Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver’s highest point.

5. Southeast False Creek Focusing on the design of energy-efficient buildings and emphasising low-carbon living by offering easy access to public transportation, one of Vancouver’s newest urban communities is also one of the most sustainably developed.

Olympic Village sits at the core of Southeast False Creek.

Originally built to house athletes for the 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, these condos have since been converted to over 1000 residential units.

Join the locals on the tranquil waters of False Creek by renting a kayak in the summer months, or for a more relaxed experience, enjoy a scenic stroll or bike ride along the 1.8-mile False Creek Olympic Village route that links Olympic Village to the Cambie Street Bridge, passing by BC Place Stadium and Science World along the way.

2021, it feels well- worn, in a good way, and has already become a London classic.

The short little menu is a true delight—Chef Florence Knight pulls inspiration from all across Europe for her

beautiful and unpretentious creations: from brown shrimp croquettes which explode with butter to fluffy panisse with pleasing peas and parmesan.

Enjoy.

Check out these London eateries Bao Noodle Shop The Shoreditch branch of this buzzy Taiwanese bao house is just as lively and inviting as its other locations in Soho, Borough Market, and Marylebone. Each one has a specialty, and Shoreditch is all about rich, beefy noodles.

Arriving in a bowl of deep, rich broth amid generous, flaky chunks of beef cheek and short rib, it’s a superindulgent hug in a bowl— perfect for a rainy London day. Bao’s signature buns are also a must-order: get one or two for each diner, including the classic pork-and-peanut plus a fried chicken or prawn croquette. And don’t skip the xiao chi: Taiwanese small plates like mutton dumplings bathing in chilli oil or a dish of pickled veggies (perfect to set off the beef). Everything is meant for sharing, and it’s all good.

Kiln Take a front row seat at the counter to see Chef Meedu Saad’s rustic Thai food come together over fire and embers, like the charred, cumin-dusted aged lamb skewers we always order on arrival. Ingredients on the short, changing menu here are impeccably sourced, from Cornish seafood (delivered fresh each day) to Britishgrown Thai and Chinese herbs. The turmeric-laced red mullet’s a must, if it’s on the menu; ditto the raw langoustines, spiked with mint and Kaffir lime.

Courtesy Manteca Manteca Against the backdrop of street-art splattered Shoreditch, the minimal exterior of Manteca is positively demure, giving nothing away of the delights

to come. But once through the door, you’re hit with the full-frontal buzz of one of London’s hottest Italian dining destinations.

Although it is possible to have a vegetarian meal here, Manteca is really all about the meat. This is a nose-totail establishment with their own in-house butchery and salumeria, a room full of hanging homemade goodies which use up all parts of the animal.

This is proudly displayed as you go down the stairs, (not one for the vegans) and is sliced to order at the bar in the centre of the restaurant. Ease yourself in with wild- farmed focaccia with rosemary and a plate of melt-in-the-mouth house charcuterie. Then it’s on to small plates of pork and beef meatballs, melon and prosciutto crudo and ‘nduja steamed mussels, with

some homemade ricotta and courgettes and a herby pea salad to lighten things up just in time for the pasta course— all homemade, of course.

Sessions Arts Club It might take a few furtive strolls around this Grade IIlisted former courthouse in Clerkenwell to discover the secret red door with a very discreet Sessions Arts Club buzzer. Once buzzed in and up the stairs, the candle-lit dining room might have you catching your breath.

Often described as the most beautiful restaurant in London, the two story high room is a heady mix of decadence and coziness, with huge arch windows and alcoves, peeling mint green paint, exposed plaster, artworks and sculptures, plants and velvet sofas. Even though it only opened in

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Five minutes with Nobel winner Seamus Heaney Seamus Heaney, Ireland’s Nobel Prize Winner for Literature in 1995, died 10 years ago on August 30, 2013. I once conducted a short interview with him after his reading in the Black Abbey during Arts Week, 1991. As presenter of Radio Kilkenny’s Arts programme at the time I was keen to interview Seamus who had just been described in the Sunday Times as “the greatest living poet in the English language”.

And so, with his book of poems, ‘Seeing Things’, in one hand and my tape recorder in the other I joined a long queue of admirers and he having signed my copy I asked Seamus for five minutes of his time. Although friends were impatient to whisk him away Seamus Heaney obligingly gave me five minutes in the back pew of the Black Abbey.

GM: Seamus Heaney you have been acclaimed as the greatest living poet in the

English language, how do you feel about that?

SH: Well it doesn’t affect me personally at all. I don’t think it affects my writing, I take it all as a lot of blarney, it’s a way of being praised excessively which makes other people immediately suspicious as your question (laughing) implies. The thing about writing is it’s no bigger than you are yourself: those things have to be forgotten about, it’s one of the first lessons you learn. My first book was published 25 years ago and one of the things you learn inside the first few months after a book is published is there’s a creature called by your own name who isn’t quite you and that creature is invented in the minds of others from the book and he goes about the world on other peoples’ lips as you, but you’re different from that imagined creature that people have out of the books, so that’s the creature who’s sometimes

praised, sometimes blamed, sometimes honoured, sometimes reviled and you have to have a very clear understanding as it develops that your personal life, your life in the eyes of your family, friends, citizens is a different life from the imagined, fictional Seamus Heaney.

GM: You mentioned in the reading today that one poem came to you as a gift – are you still a disciplined writer, do you sit down and write regularly or do you wait for the gift, the inspiration?

SH: It would be difficult to write without something like inspiration. It’s a large, ancient word, it means a sense of possibility, it means something that tempts you, that suggests you could go ahead, a little flicker of energy, now it doesn’t need to be dramatic but there has to be some faint sense of possibility and without that you

can’t go ahead, sometimes the sense of possibility resides in an invitation to do something. I would say you need

“Difficult to write without inspiration iinspiration.. .

inspiration but it doesn’t need to be melodramatic.

GM: In a week where I’ve seen paintings I cannot understand and readings I cannot relate to, is Art getting out of hand, are we losing track of the simple poem, the simple painting?

SH: I don’t know when this simple poem, simple painting you’re talking about existed.

There’s never such a thing. I mean the poem as a kind of populist utterance, as a kind of local ballad that’s fine but the poem as an expression of a sensibility of an individual’s sense of the world that has always been a little odd and a little resistant and there have always been complaints about it. It’s not necessarily its function to be immediately available, ah it’s not any put down of a work to say I don’t understand it, I don’t like it. The work itself is the real thing, it must have integrity, it

must be interested in doing its own work not in pleasing an audience GM: But who decides that integrity you just spoke of?

SH: People who have some knowledge of the art and who believe in the art rather than anything else.

GM: Seamus Heaney you have been very gracious with your time. One final question, what qualities do you NOT like in people?

SH: Well…self satisfaction… complacency….arrogance… stupidity…smarminess…I could go on.

PS: I was reminded recently that Seamus Heaney was first published in The Kilkenny Magazine, An All Ireland Literary Review, edited by James Delehanty and Associate Editor Frank McEvoy of the Kilkenny Literary Society.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

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Global Report It goes without saying that the internet is heavily dependent on shared standards across multiple platforms that have evolved over decades to assure compatibility across hardware and software. According to the journals Foreign Policy, these shared standards enable highly decentralised components developed by disparate parties to integrate into an effective overall system.

Talking about the original vision of the internet, one of the inventors of its protocols, Vinton G. Cerf, argued that “universal connectivity among the willing was the default assumption”.

This notion was based on a commitment to a unified cyberspace, says Foreign Policy. But the world of nation states is not unified and unfragmented. It is territorial and sovereign.

And now many countries, especially authoritarian regimes, want the basic governing structure of the internet to be the decisions of the state.

China in particular has proposed a fundamental internet redesign — the ‘New IP — whose official goal is to build “intrinsic security” into the web that in practice means creating the capacity to become a massive surveillance and information control system.

The battle for the internet governance of the future will differ from past struggles over technical standards in a fundamental way.

Setting these rules is not exclusively about addressing technical issues or projecting global power. It is about promoting different visions of the world: a decentralised and democratic one (the traditional internet) or a centralised and authoritarian one (China’s ‘New IP’). This is an entirely new chapter in the history of standards setting that will contribute to shape the relationship between China and the West, with enormous geopolitical and economic ramifications.

The French Government has announced it is to set aside €200m to fund the destruction of surplus wine production in an attempt to support struggling producers and shore up prices, according to the news agency Agence France Presse (AFP).

Several major wine-producing regions in France, particularly the Bordeaux area, are struggling because of a cocktail of problems including changes in consumption habits, the cost of living crisis and the after-effects of Covid-19.

A fall in demand for wine has led to over-production, a sharp fall in prices, and major financial difficulties for up to one in three winemakers in the Bordeaux region, according to the local farmers’ association.

An initial EU fund of €160m for wine destruction has been topped up to €200m by the French Government, the Agriculture Minister, Marc Fesneau, told reporters .

Why Big Brother wants to control your internet

Since the dawn of the First Industrial Revolution, setting standards has traditionally been a prerogative of technical experts, largely from the private sector. The regulation of the internet has roughly followed a similar pattern. From 1969 to 2000, the dominant ideology of the internet community resisted almost any form of conventional government regulation.

By virtue of its openness and international nature, it was believed that the internet could not be regulated.

But despite widespread support for a sort of ‘cyberanarchy’, the internet has always been regulated through a set of open standards and

platforms that required the engagement of many stakeholders: firms, governments, academics, and nonprofits.

The internet is truly a network of networks. It has evolved based on a modular structure requiring collaboration and coordination across multiple parties. The modules are part of a protocol stack, a term used by engineers to describe the many layers in a packet-switched network. Each layer handles a different set of tasks associated with networked communications (eg. addresses assignment, sessions managing, and congestion control). Engineers focusing on one layer need only to be concerned with implemen-

Why France is destroying €200m of their wine

tation details at that layer.

In short, a line is drawn between application layers (where humans and technologies interface) and the core architectural layers (where data are transmitted). The application layer is inherently political. Think about someone chatting on Facebook or watching a YouTube video. Communications take place at that level and, if the layer is centrally controlled, governments could limit freedom of expression and thought, while violating the privacy of an individual and targeting specific groups.

According to the Foreign Policy report, this open and modular standards model has been characterised by

pluralistic, voluntary, bottom-up participation, driven by innovation needs. Key organisations, such as the internet Engineering Task Force, the Institute for Electrical and Electronic Engineers or the World Wide Web Consortium, are mostly comprised of engineers and have emerged to establish these shared standards. The iconic internet protocol suite (TCP/IP), for example, was introduced in 1973 to allow physically distinct networks to interconnect with one another as “peers” in order to exchange packets through special hardware.

In this structure, operators of different components of the system cannot observe

all the aspects of the information sent. Imagine the internet as operating like a postal system. Messages that move from one computer to another are broken down into small packets. Each packet is stamped with the IP address of the computer it wants to reach. Eventually, the receiving computer reassembles the packets in the correct order.

The current system, says Foreign Policy, is akin to a postman who delivers envelopes along his route without knowing what’s inside them, while only the final recipient of the mail can piece the packets back together and read the entirety of a coherent letter.

The money was “aimed at stopping prices collapsing and so that winemakers can find sources of revenue again”, but he stressed that the industry needed to “look to the future, think about consumer changes ... and adapt”.

The south-west Languedoc region, the country’s largest wine area, known for its full-bodied reds, has been hit hard by the fall in wine demand.

The alcohol from destroyed wine can be sold to companies for use in non-food products such as hand sanitiser, cleaning products and perfume.

“We’re producing too much, and the sale price is below the production price, so we’re losing money,” said Jean-Philippe Granier, from the Languedoc wine producers’ association.

In June, the agriculture ministry also announced €57m to fund the pulling up of about 9,500 hectares of vines in the Bordeaux region, while other

public funds are available to encourage grape-growers to switch to other products, such as olives.

Europe last suffered a ‘wine lake’ in the mid-2000s, which forced the EU to reform its farm policy to reduce the massive overproduction of wine that was being stimulated by its own subsidies.

The 27-member bloc still spends €1.06bn annually on the sector, according to EU figures.

As well as a long-term trend of consumers switching to beer and other drinks, the industry was badly hit by the Covid pandemic that shut restaurants and bars worldwide, leading to a sharp fall in sales.

Recent rises in the prices of food and fuel, linked to rocketing global energy prices and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have also seen buyers reduce their spending on non-essential goods such as wine.

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Opinion Advertisement The Raggedy Bush group in 2001

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

In 2001, I called to see the revered Raggedy Bush, located about three miles outside Kilkenny along the route to Kells village.

I included a chapter about it in my book Kilkenny: People Places Faces, which is now out of print.

To an untutored newcomer, unversed in the traditions of the area, this relic of Celtic mysticism might be mistaken for an open-air clothes hanger. On the day I first saw it, the bush appeared to be almost weighed down with rags.

Its foliage was scarcely visible. From every sprig and leaf hung a piece of cloth.

There were rags of every description: scarves, ribbons, stockings, handkerchiefs and tattered banners, bits of blankets and sheets, and items of female lingerie.

Some were as good as new, I noticed, with the odd trademark or label still intact; but most looked as if they might have been there since the dawn of time. Loose threads and remnants of decaying haberdashery abounded.

Steam seemed to rise from the bush in the hot weather.

About twenty yards from the bush in a ditch clearing is a stone plaque announcing its

Part one

The Raggedy Bush presence to passers-by.

For the people of Kells Road, and the thousands who visit the hallowed site every year, St. Patrick’s Raggedy Bush has a deep significance. For them, it represents a historic landmark and is, to quote one resident, “a spot favoured by the very saints of Heaven.” For as long as locals can remember, visitors have been tying rags on the bush as “visible prayers” or to mark crucial turning points in their lives.

In 2001, I spoke to locals and members of the Raggedy Bush Preservation Group. Dermot Kearney was the driving force behind the group, which aimed to promote the traditions associated with the bush and, hopefully, develop its potential as a tourist attraction.

“The bush is very important to us”, he informed me, “and the legends surrounding it are legion”. He explained that its origins are shrouded in mystery, and that nobody

Rock The Troops in Set Theatre Operation Rock The Troops is coming to Kilkenny as part of the Texas Tornado Tour.

They will bring a huge line up of artists to Set Theatre on Thursday evening and again in Ryans of Friary Street on Friday.

The group of musicians form the band The JC All Stars who have performed at military bases all over the world including Hawaii, Kwajalein Island, Roi Island, Guam, and all over Japan and South Korea.

They come to Kilkenny with their songwriting healing program, Highway Home, which offers veterans healing through music. Groups of veterans will be joined by Texas recording artists for songwriting camps that will take place around the city. Some of the veterans will then perform with the band in Set Theatre.

The night kicks off at 7pm with sets from some of the finest Texas musicians fol-

Marianne Kelly at the Raggedy Bush

really knows how long it has been there or how it acquired its mystical status.

One legend, he added, relates that St. Patrick was resting at the spot where the bush now stands. As the saint relaxed after a day’s preaching, the Gaelic warrior Finn McCool caught a glimpse of the man who was seeking to convert Ireland to Christianity. Feeling that the old ways were threatened by this new doctrine, Finn took an

enormous rock and flung it at St. Patrick.

Alerted by an angel, Patrick ducked and avoided certain death. To give thanks to God for this close shave, he knelt and offered a prayer. His knees melted the ground beneath them and it was here that the famous bush grew “with God’s blessing”.

The age of the bush is unknown, but Dermot established that it has been sinec the early 1900s “I have a map dating to 1903 that mentions it “, he informed me, “but it may be hundreds of years old.”

Nor does anyone know when people began hanging rags on the bush. Dermot reflected: “That tradition is certainly older than any of us who live in these parts. All sorts of people tie the rags, and everyone has a different motive or purpose in visiting the bush. You can offer the

From Ukraine with love

lowed by the JC All Stars who will feature some veterans but also have a powerful rock show lined up covering popular artists and including some of their own material.

The event in Set Theatre will be filmed for the docu-

mentary Highway Home that will be aired on television in the United States including scenery from Kilkenny.

Both events are free entry and organisers are appealing to locals to come out and enjoy the music.

Bennettsbridge Art group has opened its doors to women artists from Ukraine in the aftermath of the continuing war in their country. Three women shared their experiences with the group in the past year, including Yuliia, Natalya and more recently, Olga. A painting by Olga is particularly poignant, depicting a pregnant woman carrying her home on her back. All three are talented artists, slotting in easily with the Bennettsbridge group.

Olga has presented the painting to the group and it will have pride of place in the Community Centre.

rag as a prayer or think of it as symbolising something you care about, or you can make a wish.”

Dermot revealed that the bush was almost uprooted during a storm three years ago.

“Luckily, it survived and we took steps to strengthen the bush by placing a forked branch under it”, he recalled.

He said he looked forward to the peak tourist season when sightseers will flock to see the bush and take photographs.

“There’s huge interest in it, and that interest could grow in the years ahead as word gets around”, he predicted.

(Picture: The Raggedly Bush group in June 2001. Left to Right: Dermot Kearney, Corey McHugh, Jack McHugh (aged four), Gavin Kearney and Derry Kearney.)

To be continued...

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

KATS News Theatre Photo Credit to: Fionn Bowes Fitzpatrick

Eclipsed - an exploration of Ireland’s parochial past sheds light on the nation's shadowy secrets A challenging play that balances light through community in the darkest scenarios, the production is a strong example of the power of theatre and deft design to allow discussion, expression and engagement with history.

The narrative, derived from the playwright Patricia Burke Brogan’s personal experience as a novitiate nun, follows five young women in a Magdalene laundry, and their relationship to Mother Victoria and her novice Sister Virginia. Though the lines of hierarchy are stark and oppressive, there is a bright and bubbling sense of hope among the subjugated girls, which drives their desire to imagine another, better life outside the walls of the laundry.

Visual storytelling is strong in this production. The set by

Siobhan Hegarty is austere and imposing, evoking a chilling cell when occupied by the young women —though adeptly transformed under Gerry Taylor’s lighting design to illustrate the opulence hypocritically enjoyed by senior members of the church.

The foundation of the set’s colour scheme matches that of the interior of the theatre, extending the world of the play outward, and immersing the audience’s surroundings into the narrative. The effect of this is resounding and impactful, communicating that this world is not strictly fiction, but a reality of our recent past which, as the play illustrates, we continue to face the consequences of.

The youth and desires of the entrapped women compound the tragedy of the play. They make it through

their workload singing Elvis - “Tomorrow will be too late / It's now or never / My love won't wait” – the words echoing not only the concurrent swinging sixties enjoyed outside of their oppressive precinct, but also the lack of justice awaiting the young women. The severity of the play’s context is dealt with sensitivety by director Delia Lowery, who highlights the nuanced and difficult experiences of all of the women, and the great lengths they go to make their lives worth living. Covert birthday celebrations and imaginary weddings pepper their monotonous days, as faith and commitment to a structure that allows such misogyny is deconstructed and examined from numerous angles. Space is occupied in a balanced and interesting manner,

with Lowery allowing for an exploration of physicality in the cast’s performance.

KATS’ production of Eclipsed is a brave choice for Ireland’s oldest amateur dramatic group, which uses the form to do what it best allows: the exposure of questions and rumination on the world around us. From the very introduction of the play right through to its conclusion questions remain open to answers. The characters,

portrayed lively and raw, stand to represent too many silenced Irish women, and the lasting impact of the Magdelene laundries. We are reminded to question forces that enforce blind obedience, and look beneath the surface of history in search of better understanding. There is hope and a reminder of agency in the face of oppressors, and how impactful curiosity and inquisition can be in the face of institutional violence.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Pilgrimage to Knock Photos: jbs photos Kilkenny On Monday 21st August, the 144th anniversary of the apparition at Knock, Fr Dan Carroll with Fr Joseph Lubula led a pilgrimage from St John’s Parish to the International Eucharistic and Marian Shrine. As Tom Cullen eased the coach out of the church grounds at 7.15am the day of faith and friendship began for the 53 parishioners.

The long journey to Knock included a stop at the Bridge House Hotel, Tullamore, for breakfast.

Replenished and refreshed the group continued the journey arriving just in time for midday Mass. The inclement weather failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the group as they visited the various area of religious significance. At 2.30pm the group reassembled as the afternoon religious programme began with the sacrament of Healing, followed by concelebrated Mass in the Basilica.

At the conclusion of the ceremonies the group departed for home. Again, there was a stop for sustenance in Tullamore after which the parishioners began the final part of the journey and arrived home safely, at 10.30pm.

(To the relief of Fr Dan all 53 passengers disembarked from the coach).

Speaking on behalf of the group Seán O’ Neill had words of praise for Fr Dan and Fr Joseph who led the pilgrimage with sincerity and kindness. Seán also acknowledged the integral roles of Jane Dineen and Áine Butler in overseeing the minutiae involved in the detailed organisation of the trip.

Fr Dan Carroll, Team Leader in St John's Parish, thanked all who had participated in the pilgrimage for their prayerful devotion and for their warm interactions. "I will always remember this as the friendly pilgrimage" he remarked. Concluding, a smiling Fr Dan stated that "adhering to pilgrimage tradition we prayed 'The Rosary' during the coach journey. However, I have never before witnessed such a unique recitation, as the decades were recited in Irish, English, Latin, Italian and Ugandan."

Participant reflection in the immediate aftermath indicates that the pilgrimage achieved all its goals and was a spiritual, inspiring, moving and enjoyable occasion.

Further vindication was the desire of the entire group to renew the experience in 2024.

Pilgrimage to K shrine enjoyed b John’s parishione

Mayor Joe Malone joined with parishioners Mary Manning and Margaret Coogan from St Johns parish Kilkenny for the pilgrimage to Knock

Parishioners from St John’s parish assemble outside their church prior to the pilgrimage of ‘faith and friendship’ to the Marian shrine at Knock

Mary Hilda Kavanagh in conversation with Bishop Wilkinson Margaret Kavanagh, Mayor Joe Malone and Davy Holohan who travelled to Knock on the anniversary of the apparition

Bella Connolly, Margaret Casey, Frances Donovan, Peggy Wall, Geraldine Roche

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Pilgrimage to Knock

nock

by Saint ers

Jim Delaney pictured at Knock

Siobhan McKiernan and Betsy Rice who joined parishioners of St Johns on the Knock pilgrimage

Eimear and Kathleen O’Connor

Nuala Culleton and Adeliene Kelly

Let the journey begin. Fr Dan Carroll assisted by Fr Joseph Lubula led a memorable St John’s Parish Pilgrimage of faith & friendship to the Marian Shrine at Knock on the anniversary of the apparition.(21st August )

David Holohan and Margaret Kavanagh prior to their journey to Knock

Jim Delaney and Ed Byrne joined the pilgrimage to Knock

Kathleen Meagher, Kay Foley, Bobbie Lahart all set for their pilgrimage to Knock

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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News

Burnchurch at Electric Picnic!

Kilkenny band Burnchurch are looking forward to performing on the Mindfield Stage at Electric Picnic at 9pm this Friday. This is one of the most popular stages,and they will be in the company of some of the best known names in the Irish music business.

It has been a great year for this young band who many would remember for their stunning soundtrack to the Katie Taylor fight ring walk watched globally, but also for their popular Kilkenny hurling song which was a feature on 'Up for the Match'.

All Burnchurch material is original and they are very excited to be close to completing their first full album. The renowned producer, Leo Pearson from Thomastown, has been closely involved.The music, though original and contemporary, uses ethnic sounds and rhythm, with pipes featuring prominently.

For Sadhbh (20), Síofra (19), Éanna (17) and Ruairí - who turned 16 with days to go and is therefore just old enough to qualify to perform - this is a big change from last year when they busked to make the money to attend, to now playing in front of thousands of people on Friday night at 9pm!

Storyteller in residence Kilkenny County Council Library Service

Kilkenny County Council Library Service are delighted to announce that Helena Byrne has been appointed as the Storyteller in Residence.

Helena will work with our library service to deliver a programme of activities across a network of branch libraries in the county. The activities are designed to promote literacy and foster the habit of enjoyment of reading and library usage amongst children and young people.

Helena Byrne is a storyteller and singer, originally from Ballyhale, Co.Kilkenny.

Combining her passion for music and singing with her love of Irish folklore, Helena performs as a seanachaí and folk singer for audiences of all

ages across Ireland, the USA and further afield.

Helena has worked with children in a creative capacity for over twelve years, regularly visiting primary schools and libraries across the country to run storytelling and song workshops for children.

These workshops combine interactive storytelling with speech and drama, fun vocal warm-ups, self-confidence exercises and musical games.

"I believe that reading books and storytelling is a crucial part of a child’s development for an abundance of reasons; namely improving their language and communication skills, gaining knowledge of the world around them and awakening their imaginations.

Every child is a storyteller in the making!” comments Helena.

The residency which runs from September to December 2023, will provide opportunities for parents and children to explore and enjoy reading and other family literacy activities together.

Following the appointment, Executive Librarian Aideen

McDonald said “We are delighted to work with Helena and are looking forward to forging new links within our communities and building

on our existing family literacy initiatives.”

Helena’s residency kicks off with a series of Mini Members’ workshops on

Saturday September 9th in Ferrybank Library @12 pm, Saturday September 16th @ 10am in Castlecomer Library & 12pm in Graiguenamanagh

Library.

These workshops are aimed at Parents and Pre-schoolers and bookings are now open to the public.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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Once upon a time…

In 1948 my grandparents Mary and Patrick Allen moved from Maudlin Street to 95 high Street in 1948. The building was purchased for £4,000. 95 High Street was purchased in the 1950’s which many will remember as a single storey building selling wallpaper and paint which was run by Tony Devlin. When the business was first established in high street a hair salon along with a boarding house were set up followed by a small knitwear factory. During match days the shop at 95 High Street was cleared and set up as a Tearoom selling teas, coffee and sandwiches.

My parents Patrick and Nancy Allen took over the business in the 1960’s and started selling chinaware, along with kitchen ware, wallpaper and paint and light hardware. In the 1980’s a major building project was started replacing the old single store wallpaper shop with a new 3 storey building, this is as the premises looks today.

As shopping habits changed over the years wallpaper was dropped in 2007 and replaced with a new bedding department. Along the way we also moved into lighting, lamps, pictures and mirros, occasional furniture and soft furnishings.

In 2015 myself along with

my two brothers took over the running of the business. We are split across the business in different areas ranging from store manager, buyers and accounts.

The business has expanded over the years with stores in Carlow, Athlone and Limerick, along with an active online website. We are also in the

process of opening a new store next year. In 2016 we established a new distribution centre in Limerick which services all the stores, along with a new head office in Kilkenny.

The business is now in its third generation but sadly, we are now one of the few remaining Irish run chain stores left in the country.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

e c i o h c f o A world at

Allens

Lauren Delacey displays a beautiful Tipperary Crystal necklace.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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Allens 75th Anniversary

Photos by Jack Moore

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Allens - an Irish success story At Allens, our current format can be divided into 4 areas, Giftware, Kitchenware, Interiors and bedding. Each area is repenting different rooms in a house.

Our Giftware department stocks a wide range of Irish companies from Tipperary crystal to Waterford crystal along with Geneses and Galway crystal. We also stock items from European and

are now selling more items in fashion wear from handbags to jewellery.

We can currently boast the largest number of specialist kitchen stores in Ireland.

This allows us to stock items not easily found elsewhere.

We are the only stockist for one of Spain’s and Portugal largest Kitchen Utensil suppliers helping use to provide high end kitchen products

at affordable prices. As more people are cooking from home we are now stocking a larger range of pots and pans along with knives and cutlery.

Our interiors department will help to add a touch of style to your home with our buyers travelling around Europe to find the best lighting or furniture for your home.

From lighting to furniture

to that small vase that will add a splash of colour. We are also committed to dealing with as many as Irish companies as possible and currently have great value in Scatter box cushions as part of our 75th anniversary sale.

Our bedding department currently located on the first-floor in Kilkenny stocks a wide range items from duvet covers to mattress

toppers to king pillows. We are currently stocking a large range of sheets ranging from Polycotton to 1200 Thread count sheets and huge a selection in between including own branded 300 Thread count sheets. Most of our sheets are deep fitted and as bed sizes changed, we now mainly stock deep fitted sheets. Keep an eye out for our new bedding depart-

ment next year.

The business is still changing today and now as an active online presence from our website to face book. As our lives are getting busier is it sometimes easier to do our research online and then buy in store or have delivered to our home.

As we are a family run business, we spent a lot of time on the shop floor with customers listening to feedback and comments, pricing and quality been of a major factor in the buying process, along with been able to do research on our website before entering the store. The environment is also of major concern. The Allens shop in Kilkenny was the first store in the country to sell packaging free Duvets, as part of our long-term commitment to reducing our need on packaging. We are also about to the start the process of insulating the Kilkenny store to help reduce our need on heating systems.

With a new store opening next year and more hopefully to follow in the future we will be able to continue our commitment of supplying branded and high-quality products at affordable pricing.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers and suppliers over the years who have helped make Allens an Irish success story in the previous 75 years and hopefully in the next 75 years.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Call to help the homeless Photos: jbs photos Kilkenny A recent initiative undertaken by Kilkenny musician John Travers came to fruition last week Mr. Travers, who is synonymous with the music scene in Kilkenny for many years, arranged for ten local musicians to record their music, with all proceeds going to ‘Kilkenny Helping the homeless’.

Speaking to the Kilkenny Observer, John explained that Kilkenny is bursting at the seams with musicians and talent. He continued: “That’s just ordinary everyday people who have a talent to entertain, and we arranged to get them together, with a CD culminating as the finished product.

John has played hotels, clubs and dancehalls the length and breadth of Ireland and if anyone knows their way around the music scene then it the Fatima Place musician and entertainer.

And it was fitting that Andrew McGuinness, a former student of John was on hand to launch the CD. Speaking at the launch, Cllr.

McGuinness congratulated John Travers for his foresight in organising the project. He thanked all those who contributed to bringing the project to completion, including musicians and singers, paying a special tribute to Broderick’s recording studio and Perfecto Print for their generosity.

Andrew McGuinness, apart from being a politician, is known to strum an odd tune on the guitar and is a regular at music gigs in the city.

Cllr McGuinness said that Kilkenny owes a great debt to Brendan and Mary Pierce for their amazing work with ‘Kilkenny helping the homeless’, and he was delighted that proceeds from the sale of the CD would make its way to this charity.

Brendan and Mary Pierce along with Jackie Cullen from Kilkenny Helping the Homeless were in attendance at the Home Rule Club where the CD was launched.

Mary said that Kilkenny Helping the Homeless were so appreciative to all the musicians and singers for this wonderful project. “There is only so much we as an organisation can do, and without regular contributions and assistance from volunteers our work would be much more difficult”.

Brendan Pierce announced on the night that their organisation had now achieved registered charity status from the Charity Regulator in Ireland.

Copies of the CD can be purchased at John Joe Cullen butchers on John Street or by contacting Mary Pierce.

FROM NEWPARK TO NEW YORK An interesting point that arose at the launch was that Joan Lomonoco who lives in New York and who is a friend of Alison Kealy Hayes, already purchased the CD and is playing it for her friends in The Big Apple.

Musicians and singers featured on the CD include: Alison Kealy Hayes, Johnny Comerford, Andrew McGuinness, Martin Satelle, John Joe Cullen, Noreen Travers Murphy, Eddie (Rajah) Byrne), Gerry Cody, Claire Kilkenny, Mary Butler, and Wrong Direction.

The Kilkenny Helping the Homeless band include: Alison Kealy Hayes (guitar) Andrew McGuinness ( guitar) and John Travers (Bass/Keyboards).

If you feel you can contribute in any way to ‘Kilkenny helping the homeless’ you should contact 085 7075348.

Local musicians and singers answer the call to help the homeless

Kay Marrow and Mick Comerford attended the cd launch at the Home Rule club in aid of Kilkenny Helping the Homeless

Patricia and Joe Nolan enjoying the evening at Kilkenny’s Home Rule Club

Brendan Pierce from Kilkenny Helping the Homeless with Martin Satelle, singer/musician

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Call to help the homeless

Weronica and Peter Wero attended the launch od the Charity CD in aid of ‘Kilkenny helping the homeless.’

Gerry Cody, Andrew McGuinness and Siobhán Healy who attended the celebrations at Kilkenny Home Rule Club

Veronica, Claire and Eamon Kilkenny attending the launch of the Charity CD

John Travers and Andrew McGuinness at the launch of the charity CD, featuring Kilkenny artists

Alison Kealy Hayes and John Travers who perform on the recently launched CD

Mary Pierce, Peter and Weronica Wero at the Charity CD Launch at the Home Rule Club

Johnny Comerford, whose rendition of ‘Save the last dance for me’ appears on the recently launched CD, pictured with his wife Mary

Trish and Davey ‘Doc’ Byrne enjoying the celebrations at the Home Rule Club

I’ll get by with a little help from my friends They say that a nice gesture can happen in the strangest of places.

As a nation we are a generous body as can be seen in the many contributions made by Ireland to various charitable causes.

Whether it is a national, International or a local cause, Irish people go that extra mile when it comes to offering a helping hand to those less well off.

A case in point would be the Trojan work being done by various charities in Kilkenny.

One such organisation is ‘Kilkenny Helping The Homeless’ (KHTH) headed up by the husband and wife team of Brendan and Mary Pierce.

At the launch of the charity CD for KHTH, Mary Pierce was introduced to Peter and Weronica Wero.

And as they say, one word borrowed another.

Weronica and Peter arrived in Kilkenny from Poland ten years ago and since then have started up their own cleaning company called WP4.

While Weronica deals with all matters internal of the house, husband Peter concentrates on the guttering, and window cleaning Weronica said she was very taken by the work of the Kilkenny charity and offered to do a house carpet cleaning job, payment for which would go toward the charity. Needless to say Mary , quick as a flash ( no pun intended) accepted the offer on her web page ready for auction !

It’s true what they say. There’s nice people out there. Well done Weronica, Peter and WP4.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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If you want to learn new ideas, concepts, or abilities, you must make the most of your efforts by knowing the most effective learning techniques. If you're like most people, you have a limited amount of time, therefore it's critical to maximise that time for learning.

However, learning speed is not the only consideration.

It's crucial to have the ability to retrieve knowledge from memory, apply it later, and do it successfully in a range of scenarios.

It takes time to develop effective learning skills, but by using a couple of these strategies on a regular basis, you can be sure to maximise your study time.

1. Look for Techniques to Improve Your Memory There are several different methods for improving your memory. Basic advice like sharpening your attention, avoiding cramming, and planning your study time are wonderful places to start, but there are additional psychological insights that may significantly boost your learning skills: • Regular physical activity • Socialising with others • Getting enough rest • Getting rid of distractions to help concentration • Putting material in order to make it simpler to recall • Use elaborative rehearsal; taking time to explain anything new to yourself in your own words • Using images, graphs, and charts as visual aids

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10 Ways to Learn How to Learn

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

5. Build on Previous Learning Relational learning involves relating new information to things that you already know.

When learning a new language, for instance, you could relate the vocabulary and grammar to what you already know about other languages you speak.

6. Gain Practical Experience Actually putting new knowledge and skills into practice can be one of the best ways to improve learning.

If it involves an athletic ability or sport, practice it frequently.

Practice speaking a language with a partner and immerse yourself in language-learning activities. To hone your abilities, watch foreign-language films and start talking with native speakers.

• Speaking aloud while you read the material you’re learning 2. Always Keep Learning New Things Simply continuing to study is one foolproof approach to improving as a learner. The brain is capable of neurogenesis the growth of new brain cells - however, if someone doesn't put any repetitive effort into learning, a lot of these cells will eventually perish. They are kept alive by learning new information.

The term ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ requires a mental process

called ‘pruning’. In pruning, certain brain connections are preserved while others are removed. By practising and using your newfound knowledge, there is a higher chance of retaining that information.

3. Use a Variety of Learning Techniques Find a technique to practice the material verbally, visually and audibly rather than merely focusing on one method of learning.

When learning a new language for example, try a variety of strategies, such as listening to language examples, reading

written language, practicing with a friend, and taking your own notes.

Research has found that taking notes on paper can help bind information into your memory more effectively than digital note-taking.

4. Teach What You Are Learning Put the material into your own words first. By itself, this procedure aids in retaining new information. Find a means to share what you've learnt; publishing a blog entry, starting a podcast, or taking part in a conversation with others.

7. Don't Be Afraid to Make Mistakes According to research, learning results might be amplified by making mistakes. One study found that making mistakes that were close to the right answer through trial and error was actually beneficial for learning.

Another research discovered that learning might benefit from mistakes that are followed by corrective feedback.

Spend some time fixing the error and considering how you came up with the incorrect response. This approach can improve your critical

thinking abilities and increase your adaptability in learning scenarios when it may be necessary to modify your viewpoint.

8. Use Distributed Practice Try a quick, concentrated session, followed by a break, rather than trying to pack all of your information into a few extended study sessions. After a pause, you should return and review your prior knowledge while expanding it to new information.

9. Take Exams By taking exams, you can improve your memory of what you've learnt. This shows that spending time recalling information from memory enhances long-term memory This retrieval technique increases the likelihood that you will be able to memorise that information later on.

10. Stop Multitasking It was long believed that multitaskers had an advantage over those who could not multitask. However, current research indicates that doing so not only affects productivity but also impedes attention and understanding.

Focus your attention on the subject at hand and keep working on that topic for a certain length of time.

Investigate learning methods that have been proven to be successful if you want to learn how to learn.

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Abolishing PLC Fees for Waterford Students: Enhanced Affordability and Access to Education Waterford College of Further Education (WCFE) is delighted to announce changes to fees for its PLC programmes. Following a decision taken by Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), WCFE will be eliminating fees for PLC students, and introducing kit rental and a course contribution instead. These changes will be implemented from September 2023, ensuring that students enrolling in courses for the next academic year can benefit from the new structure.

“I am absolutely delighted that WCFE is in a position to eliminate fees for PLC students from September," Noreen Reilly, Principal of WCFE stated.

"As a college committed to providing high-quality and accessible education, we strive to create an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential. The decision to eliminate fees and introduce a course contribution and kit rental programme aligns perfectly with our mission to make education more affordable and

accessible to all."

The implementation of the fee changes involves replacing the existing fee structure with a nominal course contribution of €200 for students across all courses. This course contribution will help to cover operational costs while significantly reducing the financial burden on students. Additionally, certain courses will require students to rent kits instead of purchasing them, further alleviating the financial strain associated with expensive equipment or materials. On completion of the courses where kits are rented, students will be reimbursed the rental costs.

Noreen continues, "At WCFE, we believe that education should not be hindered by financial constraints. By reducing the financial burden on students, we aim to open doors of opportunity and empower students from all walks of life to pursue their educational aspirations. This initiative will enable a wider range of students to access the education and skills they need to succeed

in their chosen careers."

Looking to the future, Noreen expresses her hopes and plans for WCFE, saying, "Our vision for WCFE is to continue to be a leading college that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. We will continue to innovate, improve our programmes, and provide outstanding support services to meet the evolving needs of our students. Our aim is to create

an environment where students can thrive academically, develop practical skills, and gain the confidence to pursue successful careers."

WCFE is committed to supporting students beyond the classroom. The college offers comprehensive student support services to address the diverse needs of students. These services may include academic support, study skills workshops, mental health counselling, dis-

ability support, and access to learning resources. The goal is to ensure that students have the necessary support to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.

WCFE also offers dedicated guidance counselling services, where trained professionals assist students in making informed decisions about their academic and career paths.

These counsellors provide personalised guidance, helping

students explore their interests, set goals, and develop plans for their future.

Recognising the importance of digital access, WCFE operates a laptop loan scheme.

This initiative allows students who may not have access to personal computers to borrow laptops for their coursework and online learning. By providing access to technology, WCFE ensures that students have the necessary tools to engage effectively with their studies and stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

WCFE is a further education college under the umbrella of WWETB. All PLC programmes operating throughout WWETB centres and colleges will benefit from the decision to abolish PLC fees. In Waterford, this includes PLC programmes that operate within Dungarvan College – Coláiste Dhún Gharbhán.

WCFE are welcoming applications for the September 2023 academic year. For more information visit www.wcfe.ie, or call the office on 051 874053.

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‘Come and join us’ Kilkenny Employment for Youth (KEY) is a Community Training Centre, founded in 1983, providing full time courses for young people in a friendly and safe environment.

“KEY gave me the SPACE and SUPPORT to really find what I wanted to do.”

Hannah, Aged 18 Is this you.…?

• Aged 16 to 21 years • Have left school • Not doing anything • Not sure what you want to do next List of Available Courses: QQI Level 3 • Apprenticeship Preparation • Catering and Hospitality • Catering and Art QQI Level 4 • Visual Communications & Design • Business & Office Administration VTCT Level 2 (QQI Level 4 equivalent) • Diploma in Hairdressing Services • Certificate in Barbering • The Art of Photographic Makeup.

While you are with us, we will provide additional supports such as Numeracy and

Literacy help for those who need it. Our Advocate is here to support you, one-to-one, in planning ways to achieve your goals.

Our new Future Focus programme will help you to stay healthy and well by exploring activities and ideas that are both healthy and fun. We can also provide access to a variety of local Counselling Services when needed.

KEY offers a wide range of other activities throughout the year. Trips, talks and outside workshops are just some of activities you can expect in KEY. Some of these activities are work and some are just for the fun of it!

Maybe you would prefer a work experience placement instead of doing a course? Then our Linked Work Programme is for you!

The Linked Work Experience (LWE) is a 6-month programme, for people aged 16 to 25. The programme provides an opportunity for you to gain on-the-job experience with an employer. You are paid a weekly training allowance during your placement. Ongoing support is provided by the Linked Work Coordinator who works closely with the employer.

If you are interested in finding out more about what we offer in KEY then check us out on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok or on our website at www.keyctc.ie Alternatively you should just call in and have a chat with the staff!

Barnstorm world premiere announced Barnstorm Theatre Company in Kilkenny City will launch its latest world-premiere at the Watergate Theatre this October.

Noah Barleywater Runs Away is the world premiere of a truly exciting theatre piece which has been adapted by internationally renowned playwright Mike Kenny from John Boyne’s novel of the same name.

The book explores the world of childhood and the adventures that we can all have there. Noah is running away from his problems, or at least that's what he thinks, the day he takes the untrodden path through the forest. When he comes across a very unusual toyshop and meets the even more unusual toymaker, he's not sure what to expect. But the toymaker has a story to tell, a story full of adventure, and wonder and broken promises.

And Noah travels with him on a journey that will change his life for ever.

This is a thought-provoking fable for our modern world from the author of the bestselling and critically acclaimed Boy in the Striped Pyjamas.

School performances for this magical play are from Monday 16th to Friday 22nd October with a family show on Thursday evening 19th October. To get your tickets, call the Watergate Theatre (056 7761674) or book online at watergatetheatre.com, and in a couple of weeks’ time you will be joining Noah, the old man and who knows who else might turn up!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Don’t miss out on Ireland’s biggest careers week for school leavers

From apprenticeships, training and skills, Worldskills Ireland 2023 is THE destination to help students choose the right career path!

Taking place at the RDS, Dublin, from 20th – 22nd September, there are just a few weeks to go before Ireland’s largest skills, careers and apprenticeship event. Expected to welcome over 25,000 people including students, parents and teachers, Worldskills Ireland 2023 will be a live celebration of apprenticeships, skills and careers with interactive demonstrations, career zones and employers who are ready to recruit.

The three-day event will offer a unique opportunity to learn about different industries, discover exciting pathways and options for a skills-based career, alongside showcasing the breadth of top-class apprenticeship programmes that are currently available.

From hospitality and tourism, manufacturing and engineer-

ing, ICT, digital, creative arts and construction, Worldskills Ireland 2023 will present something to excite, motivate and inspire every student, regardless of their interest.

There will be demonstrations, try-a-skill areas - where visitors can try their hand at some of the most exciting and innovative skills including, make up artistry and prosthetics, VR, aircraft maintenance, cyber security, vehicle repairs and restoration, and film and television to name but a few - inspiring real-live talks from industry experts, an opportunity to meet employers who are ready to recruit and the chance to view innovative digital tech skills that are the backbone of jobs of the future.

Celebrating excellence within the industry, the National Skills finals will be taking place at the event showcasing more than 25+ varied skills in a competitive setting. Joining over 160 finalists are: Quentin Smyth, from Tullow in County Carlow, who is competing in the Industrial Mechanic competition.

Waterford natives Adam Long from Mount Pleasant, who is competing in the Digital Construction BIM competition; Kelly Wyse, who is competing in the Hairdressing competition; Tadgh Whit-

more, from Ballinamult, who is competing in the Painting and Decorating competition; Tomás Nugent, from Ballysaggart, who is competing in the Plastic Die Engineering competition, and Chris Bolger, from Kill, who is competing in the Welding competition.

Kilkenny natives Fergal Suffin, from Kilmacow, who is competing in the Industrial Mechanic competition, and Jamie Chisholm from Stoneyford, who is competing in the Mechanical Engineering CAD competition.

Supported by industry partners SISK, Construction Industry Federation (CIF), ESB Networks, Autodesk, Bus Eireann and Dublin Bus and education partners including the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science (DFHERIS), the Higher Education Authority (HEA), SOLAS and NAO, Worldskills Ireland 2023 is designed to give students a chance to discover the key skills and sectors that drive the Irish economy.

Taking place at the RDS, Dublin from 20th – 22nd September, don’t miss out on the country’s most exciting careers event. Free to attend, registration is now live www. worldskillsireland.ie.

Jeanette Delahunty of TSK Academy is an award winning and accredited neurodiversity consultant and trainer Jeanette started her company during what she calls ‘the great pause’ to provide education and training for those working with the vulnerable populations. She has since created a number of accredited courses and workshops for schools, Education and Training Boards, and childcare committees, as well as for parents.

In more recent times, Jeanette has turned her attention to the corporate sector to help organisations create belonging in their workplaces for neurodivergent individuals.

In her ambition to change the world to be more accepting of difference, Jeanette delivers training and consultancy to organisations to help reduce the risk of litigation and high staff turnover while creating higher productivity and profitability, simply by becoming more aware of bias and creating an inclusive workplace culture.

Jeanette’s unique method of delivery is both thought provoking and encouraging, to help managers and colleagues in understanding and accommodating difference and removing bias.

Some of the courses and workshops include training in ‘What is Neurodiversity?’, Autism Acceptance, how the environment affects the sensory system and our behaviour, Dyslexia and Mental Health, Understanding and Supporting ADHD, and Trauma Informed Practice.

Jeanette can provide bespoke training in many areas, including unconscious bias, dignity and respect, and mental health conditions such as PICA, trauma and anxiety.

TSK Academy has been awarded as an ‘Accredited Business All Star’ by the AllIreland Business Foundation for 3 years in a row, proving

trust, credibility and customer centricity, and is now a Founding Fellow of their leadership council. Jeanette herself won ‘Established Businesswoman of the Year’ in Kilkenny in 2022 and went on to represent Kilkenny in the National Finals, and was a finalist in last year's Kilkenny Chamber Awards in the ‘Diversity and Inclusion’ category. She was also a runner up in the Irish Institute of Training and Development Awards in 2022 in the category of ‘Equality and Diversity Participatory Initiative’.

It’s easy to see where her passion for change comes from when you look at her personal and professional background of eleven children in her blended family with varied complex needs and her fifteen years plus of working with vulnerable people.

Coming up on Saturday 7th October 2023, from 9am to 6pm, TSK Academy and sister company Tutors Made for You are launching Ireland’s FIRST Neurodiversity in Education Conference. This year’s theme is Inclusive Practice.

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Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny launch new Autumn training and events programme

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael Doyle officially launches the Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny Autumn Training and Events Programme 2023 alongside trainers, speakers and Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny staff.

A new Autumn Training and Events Programme aimed to empower small businesses in Kilkenny has been announced by the Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny.

The Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny has launched their online and in-person training and events programme for Autumn 2023. This programme schedule provides potential new entrepreneurs and small businesses currently operating in the County the opportunity to develop new skills and adapt to the ever-changing economic environment. The Local Enterprise Office will continue to deliver virtual and in-person programmes for the upcoming season.

The courses on offer range

from ‘Start Your Own Business Programmes’, ‘Leadership Excellence and Development Programme’, ‘Future Proofing your Business - Cyber Security/ GDPR’ and some exciting new clinics in areas such as Social Media, Financial, Business Advisory, Digital Marketing and many more. Additionally, educational networking events such as Funding & Supports for Going Green, National Women’s Enterprise Day and Optimising Your Bottom Line Are you afraid to make money in 2023? With Blaise Brosnan will take place in the coming months.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael Doyle expressed his excitement about the Autumn Training

and Events Programme, stating, "Investing in the growth and development of our small businesses is crucial for the success of our local economy.

The training sessions offered by the Local Enterprise Office are designed to empower entrepreneurs with practical skills and knowledge, enabling them to tackle challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their business goals."

“Small business owners have a range of different priorities and needs. The Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny is conscious that for a business to succeed, it is essential to support them by enhancing their skills, competencies and knowledge”, commented Aileen McGrath, Acting Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny. She further added “our Autumn Training and Events schedule is designed to support small businesses owners and entrepreneurs based in County Kilkenny”.

With hundreds of Kilkenny businesses availing of the Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny mentoring and training supports this year to date, there is something for all small businesses no matter what stage of their business journey they are at. The Autumn Training and Events Programme 2023 schedule is now available on www.localenterprise.ie/ kilkenny.

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National Learning Network Kilkenny; the first step to your future!

Just received your Leaving Certificate results? Not sure what path to choose next? Or are you unemployed and looking to return to education, learn a new skill but want to do so at your own pace? Our excellent staff can help.

Whatever your ability, we can offer you personalised learning supports and work placements to help build your confidence, develop new skills and gain recognised qualifications.

Every year, over 5,000 people of all ages and from all walks of life come to learn and study with us at our training centres, which are located in almost every county in Ireland. As Ireland's largest non-governmental training and education organisation, we offer over 70 different training programmes from art and cookery, to IT and business skills. Over 90 per cent of those who completed our programmes last year moved on to employment or further education and training. NLN will set you on the path to a brighter more independent future.

To find out more contact Emma on 087 290 1004, email kilkenny@nln.ie or visit our website www.nln.ie

Think Possible with National Learning Network!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

L to R: Borris Vocational School principal, Mr. Pat Coffey; Patrick Doyle who received 625 points in his Leaving Certificate; Acting Deputy Principal, Ms. Sarah Doyle

Students from Borris Vocational School receiving results with their teacher

Inspiring results for Borris Vocational School

Mr. Coffey and Ms. Doyle with some of the students from Borris Vocational School who received Leaving Certificate results on Friday

There were joyous scenes at Borris Vocational School last Friday when the Leaving Certificate Class of 2023 received their results. The school is immensely proud of all our students’ achievements. Despite being badly affected by Covid-19, this group of students showed remarkable grit and determination to reach their full potential. Great credit is due to the hard work and the dedication of the committed staff at Borris Vocational School and the support shown by all the parents and guardians in our school community. For the third consecutive year, the school has seen students achieve the maximum points of 625. Congratulations to Patrick Doyle, son of Eleanor and Martin Doyle of Carrignafeka, Garryhill for this great achievement.

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Smash burgers Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins Serves: 4

The new method of ‘smashing’ burgers creates the ultimate meaty crust. Serve in a burger bun with lettuce, gherkin, tomatoes and your favourite sauces.

Ingredients • 4 burger buns, sesame topped or brioche, whichever you prefer • 1 tbsp sunflower oil • 500g steak mince, 15-20% fat is good • 4 slices mild cheddar, or burger cheese • 1 red onion, finely sliced • handfuls of iceberg lettuce, finely shredded • 2 tomatoes, sliced • 1 large gherkin, sliced lengthways • mayonnaise, ketchup and American mustard, or your preferred sauces, to serve Method STEP 1 Slice the burger buns in half, then toast or grill the cut sides and set aside. Heat the oven to 100C/80C fan/gas ¼.

STEP 2 Divide the mince into four loose piles and season generously with salt. Heat ¼ tbsp oil in a heavy

frying pan or skillet over a high heat and put one of the piles in the pan. Working quickly, cover with a square of baking parchment and use a second smaller pan to press the beef patty down as hard as you can (you may wear oven gloves

or use the end of a rolling pin for pressing down, being careful of the heat and rising steam). Allow to cook for 2 mins.

STEP 3 Remove the parchment and turn

the patty over. Press down with a spatula, cover with a slice of cheese and cook for 1 min. Transfer to a baking tray and keep warm in the oven while you cook the other burgers in the same way.

STEP 4 To assemble the burger, scatter a bun base with onion, lettuce and tomato slices, followed by a smashed patty, gherkin slices and the bun top. Serve with your chosen sauces on the side.

Next level spaghetti carbonara Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins Serves: 2 Make the ultimate spaghetti carbonara with a creamy hollandaise-style sauce and crisp pancetta or guanciale. You can also mix in an egg yolk at the end.

Ingredients • 1 tbsp olive oil • 150g rindless unsmoked fatty pancetta or guanciale, finely chopped • 1 garlic clove, bashed • 200g spaghetti or fettuccine • 4 good quality egg yolks, (2 of them are optional) • 50g parmesan, finely grated • a few drops of truffle oil (optional) Method STEP 1 First, warm your serving dishes in a low oven or in the microwave. Heat the oil

gently in a large, shallow pan. Fry the guanciale or pancetta and garlic for 10 mins, or until all the fat has rendered off and the meat is golden and crisp.

Remove and discard the garlic clove, then turn off the heat.

STEP 2 Bring a large pan of salted water to a simmer and cook the pasta until it’s al dente (about a minute less than the pack instructions). Meanwhile, whisk 2 egg yolks in a small bowl with a pinch of salt.

STEP 3 Using kitchen tongs, lift the pasta from the water into the pancetta pan along with any dripping water. Use a wooden spoon to stir it into the rendered fat. If the pan looks dry, add a small ladleful of pasta water and mix it in. Keep adding until you see a little pasta water at the bottom of the pan – you’ll be surprised how much will be absorbed.

STEP 4 Working quickly, tip the beaten yolks in with the pasta and stir vigorously.

Rinse the yolk bowl out with a little more pasta water and pour that in too. Add most of the parmesan and beat again. If at any time it’s becoming claggy or starting to scramble, pour in a little more water.

If you’ve added too much, stir the pasta over the lowest heat for a few moments. You’re aiming for a smooth sauce that is the consistency of double cream. Season with a couple of pinches of ground black pepper and taste for salt.

STEP 5 Transfer the pasta to the warmed serving dishes, scatter over the remaining parmesan and nestle the last two egg yolks on top, if using.

Season them with some salt and pepper, and drizzle over the truffle oil, if you have it, just before serving.

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5

Star Wars: Ahsoka The highly anticipated Star Wars spin-off has finally dropped on Disney Plus, with former Jedi Knight Ahsoka Tano on a mission to investigate an as yet unknown

threat to a vulnerable galaxy.

The latest branch of the Star Wars tree, Ahsoka transplants some of The Clone Wars and Rebels’ best loved animated characters into the live action space. This Star Wars tale in a refreshingly new direction. Littered with top-notch lightsaber battles, combat scenes and flight sequences, this journey following Anakin Skywalker’s former apprentice, Ahsoka Tano, is one not to be missed.

Wanted: The Escape of Carlos Ghosn This is the remarkable reallife tale of a CEO-turnedfugitive, Carlos Ghosn.

Unleashing this fascinating documentary on the ex-car industry chief (now subject to an international arrest warrant), financial inconsistencies saw him imprisoned in Japan for 10 days in 2019. This no-frills documentary manages to pull off what many thought was impossible: tak-

viewers in 1997, and according to the producers of the show, the final season will follow Queen Elizabeth II’s reign into the 21st century (but it will not go all the way to her death in 2022).

As any royal followers might be able to tell you, the early 2000s is when Prince William first met Princess Catherine, while they were both students at the University of St Andrews.

While they had encountered each other on campus before, it was reported, when the Princess of Wales took part in a charity fashion show that she really caught Will’s eye. The see-through

1.Bird Box Barcelona

2. Choose Or Die

ing a tale of corporate sculduggery and transforming it into a palatable fable for the masses - all without the need for romantic subplots. A calculated getaway that gripped the world, the former NissanRenault CEO still remains at large. Apple TV Plus has absolutely nailed this one.

You Are Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah Prepare for another gem from Adam Sandler - this time, with the addition of his two daughters. Talk about keeping it in the family. A sweet tale likely to be an uncharacteristic winner for the platform, this coming-of- age tale sees up-and-comers Sadie Sandler as big sister Ronnie, alongside Sunny Sandler as younger sister Stacy Friedman – a 13-yearold struggling with the usual teenage dilemmas. One of which, happens to be her forthcoming Bat Mizvah.

A heartwarming and, to be

honest, utterly delightful feature-length watch, this Sammi Cohen-directed affair bridges the tricky gap between childhood innocence and awkward adolescence.

On Netflix.

The Ultimatum: Marry Or Move On Season 2 A reality series that comes complete with an ultimatum: Get hitched or call it quits?

Fronted by Nick and Vanessa Lachey, this series sees six couples once again faced with a life-changing dilemma, as one partner demands answers. Featuring more drama than you could shake a stick at, this engrossing dating experiment sees five couples swap partners in a bid to see whether they really are in a relationship with “the one”. It’s brash, bonkers, and just a little bit bizarre. Oh, and there’s the small matter of an unexpected pregnancy thrown into the mix. Watch on Netflix

Kate and William feature in The Crown S6 While Kate Middleton, 41, continues to be one of the world’s biggest fashion icons, her love for couture dates all the way back to her college days. In case you didn’t know, the Princess of Wales actually walked in a fashion show while she was a student at the University of St Andrews, and it was, apparently this runway moment that really got Prince William, 41, swooning.

Now, we’ve learned that this pivotal moment in the couple’s relationship will be recreated for the sixth and final season of The Crown.

The fifth season of the überpopular Netflix series left

scary ones to watch now on Netflix Bird Box Barcelona serves as a spinoff sequel to the hit 2018 thriller Bird Box, which is an adaptation of Josh Malerman’s 2014 novel of the same name. In the new film, the world continues to be overtaken by mysterious, invisible entities that cause people to die by suicide if they look at them. Although some people are immune, these ‘seers’ become devout followers of the entities and force others to reveal themselves to the creatures. After Barcelona is targeted, Sebastián and his daughter, Anna, try to make it out of the city alive by teaming up with other survivors.

New series coming this month and worth viewing Invasion Season 2 Invasion is back– and with it comes more perspective switching than a mindfulness retreat. This globe trotting Apple TV Plus series once again documents the alien invasion from multiple cities around the world. More than four months after the initial invasion, the world begins to unite and rise up, as a booming voice declares: “My fellow global citizens, look up!

This is our enemy”. Survival of the fittest in action, this gritty series sees the return of Shamier Anderson, Golshifteh Farahani, Sam Neill, Firas Nassar and Shioli Kutsuna.

Will the human race discover a way to outwit the aliens?

Only time will tell.

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knitted design, crafted by Charlotte Todd, was modelled by Princess Catherine in 2002. According to royal reporter Katie Nicholl, the Prince of Wales was showering his future wife with compliments that night.

This scene will be featured in season six of The Crown, according to The Sun newspaper. The outlet reports that producers of the show shared images of the recreated moment during the Edinburgh TV Festival.

While we’ve only been introduced to Prince William (and his younger brother, Prince Harry) as small children on The Crown so far, we

can’t wait to see them portrayed as young men.

For season six, Ed McVey will play Prince William, while Luther Ford will portray Prince Harry. Meanwhile, Meg Bellamy will fill in as Princess Catherine. (If you’re wondering, Prince Harry did not meet Meghan Markle until 2016, so she will not be featured in the series.)

There is no official release date for season six of The Crown. However Netflix has said that it will be released before the end of 2023. Yet, due to the simultaneous writers’ strike and SAG- AFTRA strike, the release date could be pushed back.

Choose or Die follows a college student named Kayla who is struggling to make ends meet along with her mother, Thea. When she discovers an old ‘80s game that has an unclaimed cash prize, Kayla jumps at the opportunity to play, in hopes that she can win and use the money to help her family. However, Kayla soon realises the game is cursed, and whatever decisions she makes virtually come with dire consequences in real life.

3. Unfriended

Unfriended is a found-footage horror film that is told entirely through a computer screen. It centres on a group of high-school students who are video chatting online when a mysterious user joins their conversation. They discover the account once belonged to their classmate Laura Barns, who died by suicide after an embarrassing video of hers went viral online. They begin to suspect they’re being haunted by Laura’s spirit, and as the night goes on, the entity forces the friends to confront their darkest secrets or risk death.

4. Umma

In Umma, which is the Korean word for mother, Sandra Oh stars as Amanda, a Korean immigrant who lives on an isolated farm with her teenage daughter, Chrissy. When Amanda receives her mother’s cremated ashes, she and Chrissy’s seemingly idyllic life begins to unravel as they get haunted by Umma’s ghost. Things only get worse once Umma’s spirit takes over Amanda, which causes her to become overly protective of Chrissy and not allow her to leave the farm.

5. Texas Chainsaw Massacre

Despite being the ninth film in the franchise, Texas Chainsaw Massacre is meant to serve as a direct sequel to the original 1974 film. In this instalment, a group of friends travels to an abandoned Texas town with plans to gentrify it. However, they unknowingly find themselves in Leatherface’s neighbourhood. After 50 years of hiding, the notorious serial killer resurfaces to target the group to punish them for trespassing. When Sally Hardesty — the sole survivor in the original film — hears of his reappearance, she embarks on a mission to put an end to him once and for all.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Sport

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary Jack Ryan from Inistioge has been making huge strides in recent years on The Showjumping Circuit with a string of victories around the world, and he is part of an array of Showjumping talent from within the county who have been performing so well globally.

That was highlighted by the wonderful success at The European Showjumping Championships in Italy in July where their was plenty of Gold Medals won by Kilkenny competitors.

Seamus Hughes Kennedy won both individual and team gold in The Young Riders Competition aboard ESI Rocky, while The Brennans from Gowran, Eoin, James and Timmy were part of the Ireland Team that won Gold in The Junior competition.

Along with the rest of the successful Irish Squad, they were paraded in front of a packed attendance at the recent Dublin Horse Show in the RDS just before the start of the Puissance.

Jack Ryan competed in the RDS, where he performed very well as he won The 6-year-old qualifier aboard Mondavi.

EOIN EVERARD

If you haven't looked outside at all the rain in the last week let me tell you…It’s officially Autumn going into Winter! You can already feel the days becoming a lot cooler and shorter.

The morning air will start to feel brisk, and before you know it, it’ll be time to start thinking about winter coats and woolly hats – which is why the sudden transition from summer to cooler months can feel like a challenge.

And with that also comes the time for the annual onslaught of winter bugs and the odd spell of feeling under the weather as our bodies adapt.

But it doesn’t have to be that way – well, not entirely at least.

While you can’t completely avoid catching bugs and colds, you can give yourself and your immune system a helping hand to make sure you feel healthy, and great, this season.

And no, that doesn’t mean drinking all of those ‘vitaminboost’ drinks, and fizzy tablets to make sure you’re set-up. If you follow these 5 simple steps it will make the transition a lot smoother and keep you healthier.

1) Boost Your Immune System This one can tie in with both autumn and winter, but that’s because it’s an important one.

Jack Ryan Mondavi is owned by well known singer and Paralympic and World Gold Medalist Ronan Tynan, who is also an

Equestrian and Horse Racing enthusiast having competed in Showjumping competitions as well as currently owning

Racehorses who have won over the past year.

Jack also competed in The Grand Prix on the final day of

5 ways to stay active and prevent colds and flus as we get ready for winter You need to boost your immune system to help prevent those annoying colds and sniffles that always happen as the weather changes.

Drink plenty of water, wash your hands often to prevent sickness and eat nutritious foods that are proven to help your immune system such as;

The Show, where he was most unfortunate not to have made The Jump-Off aboard BBS McGregor having knocked the final fence in the process.

BBS McGregor is owned by Jack's Mum, Marguerite Ryan who herself has competed at The Dublin Horse Show, and she has performed superbly in high class competitions around the World.

He jumped a clear round in the first round of The Nations Cup Final in Barcelona last year, while also in 2022 they enjoyed a double clear round as part of the Ireland Team on their way to winning The 5-Star Nations Cup in Abu Dhabi.

Jack and BBS McGregor were also part of the winning Team that won The Nations Cup in Vilamoura in Portugal in 2021.

The Inistioge native began his career like so many across the county with the Moloney Family at the Warrington Equestrian Centre, and from there he moved on to Shane Breen in Hickstead where he spent two years based with the Tipperary native who won the Grand Prix at The Dublin Horse Show in 2019.

Jack is now currently based in Belgium in Dutch Equestrian

with former Olympic, World and European Champion Jos Lansink, having spent a month there when arriving first in the Young Riders Academy. Jos is originally from the Netherlands and has competed with both the Netherlands and Belgium, so Jack is in the perfect surroundings possible for his career to progress further.

He was a European Medalist at Underage having been part of James Kernan's Squad that won a Bronze Medal aboard Cavalier Teaca in The European Juniors in 2018, while in 2021 he was aboard BBS McGregor that won a Silver Team Medal in The European Young Riders competition.

Jack has made terrific progress in his career so far, and with Irish Showjumping on a crest of a wave particularly among the Kilkenny riders following their European Championship exploits in July.

The Inistioge native has the potential and determination to progress even further and under the stewardship of Jos Lansink he can without doubt look forward to more great days going forward.

shopping trolley with in season fruits and vegetables.

Getting outside and going for a walk is a great one – it can help get rid of your stress, lowers your risk of Alzheimer’s, tones you up, keeps you moving no matter what your age and burns calories!

What’s not to love about going walking during the autumn months with all of the scenery we have at our doorstep? Go down by the Castle Park and canal and you will see such an array of changing leaves it is amazing.

2) Embrace The Clocks Going Forward This is the one that always trips people up!

Switching from light mornings where the sun naturally wakes you, to darker mornings that still feel like night, can be a big struggle.

But by going to bed earlier, especially straight away as the clocks have changed can have a massive impact on how you deal with the clocks changing.

Longer periods of darkness = longer periods of sleep! And you’ll find it easier to throw that duvet off in the morning.

3) Buy In-Season Foods There’s so many great choices, but here’s just a few; apples, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, leek, onion, parsnips, pumpkin…I could go on but these are just some of the choices you have for in-season foods. Usually what is cheap in the supermarket is what is in season. Try to buy local foods as they are usually fresher.

Think delicious slow-cooked dinners, hearty soups and roasted vegetables. Probably one of my favourite times of year when it comes to food.

Roll on Turkey and ham!

broccoli, garlic, almonds, kiwi and poultry.

You can also drink green tea as a way to warm up on those bitter mornings and fill your

4) Stay Active!

This is my favourite one.

It can be really easy to sit around during the day when it starts to get colder, but it’s important to get in some daily movement.

5) Make Plans for The Cold Months A lot of us will just ‘hibernate’ if we don’t have things to do during the day as it starts to get colder…

The best way to help with this is to make plans.

It’s so simple!

You can even use the time to kill two birds with one stone and make plans to go for a walk with friends – that way you’re keeping active and you’ve made sure that you don’t spend the day hibernating on the sofa.

Don’t get me wrong, it can be good to do occasionally when you need to relax – but it’s important to make sure you do things so all of those good habits you created during the warmer months don’t get left behind. We have traditional, healthy aging and Sports Pilates classes on that a lot of our clients say are great just to have something in the diary that keeps them active when the motivation is not as high in the winter.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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Community & GAA Notes

JUNIOR HURLERS SQUEAK HOME The Clara Juniors returned to winning ways in Inistioge on Monday of last week when a rousing late rally saw them edge

Davy Barcoe of Clara accepts the cup on behalf of Kilkenny following their victory in the Michael Foley tournament

out the host club by a single point. In a most enjoyable affair Clara trailed 2-10 to 2-6 at the interval, the Rower men having struck for a goal on the stroke of halftime. Peter Nolan and Cian Kelly had scored the Clara goals and the four point deficit didn’t look like too much as Clara would turn with the aid of a brisk breeze.

But ten minutes into the new half Clara found themselves seven points down and in real bother as the Rower Inistioge had upped the intensity and Clara had failed to match it. Joe Connolly from a free and then from a 65 closed the gap but the Rower replied with a free of their own. The lead was still five when the fight back began in earnest. The two Rorys - O Keeffe and Glynn, notched a point apiece and Joe Connolly added a free to bring his side within two points. Another Connolly free looked set to cut the gap to the minimum but Joe had other ideas and a quick thinking short pass to Killian Phelan yielded the required result when “Farmer” ripped a rocket to the Inistioge net. Clara now led by a point and the hugely influential Killian then pulled a high ball from the clouds and doubled the lead. Substitute Noel Kehoe added another and a Rower free was cancelled out by a similar Joe Connolly score. Then a ball that should have been long cleared ended up in the Clara net and it looked like the home team had salvaged a draw. But there was time for one more play and it was Rory O Keeffe that was in the right place at the right time to fire over the winner. 3-19 to 4-15 was how it finished.

Team - Jason Barcoe, Ben Murphy, James Dowling, Jim Kehoe. Zach Lawlor, Tom Ryan, Harry Boyle. Killian Phelan 1-2, Luke Whelan. Rory O Keeffe 0-4, Joe Connolly 0-9, 0-7f, 0-2 x 65s, Sean Carrigan. Rory Glynn 0-2, Peter Nolan 1-1, Cian Kelly 1-0. Subs used Ben Crow, Alan Coleman, Noel Kehoe 0-1, Conor “Curly” Phelan, Alex McDonald.

Then on Friday Clara played host to Erin’s Own, Castlecomer.

Already short a few Leaving Certs on the day the results came out, they were further weakened by the withdrawal of a few other younger players due to a stomach bug. Nevertheless Clara opened brightly and when Killian Phelan brilliantly controlled a long ball and turned and shot to the net they found themselves 1-2 to 0-1 ahead after only 8 minutes, despite playing into a stiffish breeze. They maintained this lead for the first twenty minutes and then a thunderstorm of biblical proportions began and the game changed. Erin’s Own adapted

much better to the adverse conditions and their rangy centre forward nabbed a goal and a point before the break to give his team a 1-6 to 1-5 lead. Joe Connolly (2), Sean Carrigan (2) and Rory O Keeffe had accounted for the Clara points.

The second half started with the rain still pouring down and this had also killed the breeze. Points were exchanged for the first 10 minutes and then Erin’s Own made their break for home. Three points in a row from substitute Michael Brennan put some daylight between the sides and although Joe Connolly replied with two very good points, the Comer men had the bit between their teeth and closed the game out with three straight points, including two more from the aforementioned Brennan. Indeed were it not for the 20 wides that Erin’s Own struck, the margin of victory could have been greater for the deserving winners. They coped admirably in very testing conditions. Clara had big performances from Jim Kehoe, Ben Crow, Luke Whelan, Peter Nolan and Joe Connolly.

Team - Jason Barcoe, Jim Kehoe, James Dowling, Alan Coleman. Brandon Ryan, Tom Ryan, Ben Crow. Peter Nolan 0-1, Luke Whelan. Rory O Keeffe 0-1, Joe Connolly 0-5, 0-2f, Noel Kehoe. Sean Carrigan 0-2, Mick McDonald, Killian Phelan 1-0. Subs used Harry Boyle, Cian Kelly, Rory Glynn.

JUNIOR D’S ELIMINATED The Clara Junior D team lost out 1-19 to 2-10 to Lisdowney in Clara on Sunday evening. Some of their players were still feeling the affects of a stomach bug which had struck down some of the players during the week, and although they fought to the end, they had to give way to a superior and more experienced Lisdowney outfit. From the midway point of the first half Lisdowney hit an unanswered 1-7 to establish a serious foothold in the game and were not flattered by their 1-16 to 1-6 lead at halftime. Sean Carrigan had accounted for 1-2 of his side’s total, while two frees by Noel Kehoe and a point each by Ben Nolan and Harry Boyle following a great run made up the other scores.

Jim Kehoe and his cousin Noel from a free opened the scoring in the second half and when Jim then scored a goal from distance it looked like it was game on. But a real stop start nature developed from here and scores got very scarce. Some great defending from the likes of Mick McDonald, Zach Lawlor and Ben Crow kept Lisdowney chances to the minimum but at the other end Clara could only manage a Sean Carrigan point from play and a late Gary Kehoe free. They were chasing goals and a dogged Lisdowney defence kept them at bay.

Team Bill Cody, Ben Murphy, Mick McDonald, Zach Lawlor.

Ben Crow, Gary Kehoe 0-1f, Jim Kehoe 1-1. Luke Whelan, Conor (Curly) Phelan. Rory Glynn, James Dowling, Harry Boyle 0-1. Noel Kehoe 0-3f, Ben Nolan 0-1, Sean Carrigan 1-3. Subs used Adam Harding, Cian Kelly, Eoin Harding, Alex McDonald.

COUNTY CHAMPIONS Congratulations to Clara’s Jason Byrne who starred for Craanford as they claimed the Wexford Intermediate A title on Sunday. Jason top scored in the game and his tally of eight points, three from play, greatly helped steer the Fr. O’ Regan’s club home. They beat Rathgarogue-Cushinstown 3-13 to 1-15.

DEVELOPMENT SQUADS On a big weekend for inter county underage hurling some Clara lads were to the fore in the Kilkenny colours last

Champion Again Uppertown

weekend. Padraig Meany helped the Cats win the Shield final at the U14 Tony Forristal tournament in Waterford, having lost to eventual champions Cork by a single point in the cup competition.

The county U16A squad went one better when they won the Michael Foley tournament in Wexford. David Barcoe captained the side from midfield and Luke Lawlor also played his part at wing back as they defeated the host county in the final. Philip Carrigan was on the U16B team that also acquitted itself well.

Congratulations to all concerned.

CAMOGIE The Clara seniors kicked off their League/Championship campaign with a loss at home to St. Brigid’s Ballycallan on Sunday morning. On a wet miserable morning the Clara girls simply never got going in this one and played second fiddle to their opponents for most of the contest. After Brigid’s had opened the scoring Rachel Whelan and Emma Shortall pointed to put Clara ahead for the only time of the day.

However St. Brigid’s rattled off the next 1-4 without reply to take firm control and although Keara Ryan tagged on two points for Clara (one from a free) Ballycallan finished with the last 3 points of the half to lead 1-8 to 0-4. The goal was symptomatic of the Clara lack of urgency all day as nobody pounced on the goal scorer as she surged through the middle until it was too late.

Brigid’s then scored the first two points of the second half to move nine clear before Clara had somewhat of a mini revival with four points on the bounce from Keara Ryan (2), Rachel Whelan from a free and Lucy Boyd. It was at this stage that Clara shot several of their eleven wides, some of them bad wides, that might have sparked a touch of uneasiness in the Brigid’s rearguard had they been converted. As it was the Brigid’s full forward pointed to seal the victory although substitute Niamh Byrne and Keara Ryan from a free closed out the scoring to leave the final margin 1-11 to 0-10. Clara will know that they have to hurl with far more vigour to claim any wins in this competition. Next up is Windgap in Clara on Saturday evening.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Aine McDonald, Laoise Nolan, Tamsin English. Rebecca Nolan, Katie Ryan, Joanne Comerford.

Rachel Whelan 0-2, 0-1f, Gráinne Glynn. Aisling Curtis, Grace Barcoe, Niamh Ward. Emma Shortall 0-1, Keara Ryan 0-5, 0-3f, Maria Shortall. Subs used Niamh Byrne 0-1, Lucy Boyd 0-1, Margaret Kehoe.

UPPERTOWN WINS AGAIN It was another great day out at the Iverk show on Saturday last for locals David and Gill Condon from Bohergloss. Their Shearling ram Uppertown won the senior ram class. Gill Vale Bentley was second in the ram lamb class and they also finished first and fourth in the ewe lamb class. Many congratulations to David and Gill for another great win.

GAA NEWS St.Lachtains junior hurlers faced into the fourth round of championship action on Saturday afternoon last when they took on Graiguenamanagh. After a good win the previous

week this was a very tough game and the local lads came out winners on a final score of 5.15 to 2.14 Their next game is against St.Patricks of Ballyragget on Sunday at 2pm in Pairc Lachtain.

BIRTHDAY Special birthday wishes go out to Eamon Grace, Lisdowney and his twin sister Kay Phelan who celebrated their 50h birthday at a party in Kavanagh’s Bar on Saturday night last joined by their families and friends.

DAY CARE CENTRE Freshford day care centre are organising a bus to Holycross Abbey for the anointing of the sick on Saturday 16th September leaving Freshford at 12 noon from outside Prague House and returning to Freshford for approximately 7pm. A meal will be included in Holycross after the anointing. Anyone interested in travelling please contract Marie O’Connor on 086 2547439, Ann Burke on 086 2030224 or Paddy Butler on 087 6367667 LEAVING CERT RESUSLTS Congratulations to all the boys and girls from the village and surrounding areas in all the various different schools who received their Leaving cert results last weekend with many secured high grades and getting the points they needed to go on to third level education FUNDING Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee recently allocated a number of grants to the County. The Communities Support Fund is supported through the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Community Enhancement Programme. Successful local applications were, Freshford Community Café €12K. Freshford Squash Club €6K. Woodview Residents Committee €3.159K. Freshford Boxing Club €1.1K. Threecastles Community Hall €1K. Freshford Heritage Group €700. Freshford Day Care Centre €1K. ATHLETIC CLUB Nena Athletics club have launched fit4life in the Freshford area. All abilities are welcome from walkers wanting company to runners training for marathons and everyone in between.

Very experienced leaders are leading a program established

by Athletics Ireland that caters for all experience and abilities.

They meet each Tuesday morning and Wednesday evenings in Freshford GAA club. If you are interested please contact us on nuennaac@gmail.com or call Caoimh on 0874175550 PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

Notices The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office.

Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21 HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed.

For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

SENIOR CAMOGIE Camogie club secretary, Brian Leahy reports that the senior camogie team continued to create new records when carving out a deserved away 1-11 to 0-13 victory over St. Martins in their 2nd round senior league/championship fixture on Sunday morning in Coon. The James Stephens girls started well against a strong breeze going two points up before St.Martins fought back winning frees from the hard pressed Village defenders to take a 0:05 to 0:03 lead into With both defences on top, the work rate was impressive from both teams resulting in a number of energy draining rucks throughout the hour. Early in the 2nd half The Village girls managed to dominate for a time and drew level, thanks to some excellent finishing by Sophie O’Dwyer, in particular, but

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Community & GAA Notes The Young Irelands Family Fun Day took place in Young Irelands GAA Grounds in Gowran on Saturday Afternoon in front of a very good crowd, with a range of activites for kids and family members. There was plenty of family fun games along with The Rounders competition which was won by Clashwilliam. MC was Joe Loughrey with Young Irelands PRO Michael O’Leary helping out on Commentary.

The queues were very busy for Hot Dogs and Burgers, while there was a Free Fruit Stand also. Also, there was collection buckets with donations going to Teac Tom. A huge well done to The Young Irelands Healthy Club Committee for their sterling work and organization.

DEVELOPMENT SQUADS Very well done to the 7 Development Squad players who played in their respective end of year Tournaments on Saturday: Thomas Langton, Kieran Timmons, Kealan Barcoe, Kieran Carter, Aidan Keating, Darragh Corcoran and Dylan Brennan.

U-6 CAMOGIE A huge well done to The Young Irelands U-6 Camogie girls who participated in the annual Mooncoin GAA and Camogie Club Tournament. The girls had a wonderful morning of games, a parade, fun, friends, medals and goodies. A big thanks to Suzie and Joanne and the parents who helped make Saturday such a memorable day for the youngest players.

U-12 girls enjoyed a great day out in Croke Park courtesy of the “Caman to Croker” initiative

the resilient St.Marti’s girls refused to wilt and matched James Stephens score for score into the closing minutes of the game.

The defining score came via a neat pass from Anna Doheny to Niamh Deely (1-02) who drilled the sliothar to the corner of the net to put The Village three points clear. St.Martins kept plugging away but with the clock ticking against them just failed to bridge the gap leaving the James Stephens girls to register an historic 1-11 to 0-13 first victory in the senior league/championship grade. The team’s 3rd round fixture will be against St. Brigid’s in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain, with the date to be confirmed.

JUVENILE CAMOGIE On Friday last the U-12 girls enjoyed a great day out in Croke Park courtesy of the “Caman to Croker” initiative. No doubt it proved a great thrill for the young camogie players to play three blitz fixtures on the hallowed ground, memories they will cherish for years to come.

The U-14 camogie team played their 2nd match in the league and gave a great account of themselves before going down to the home team, Tullogher, by a single goal, 4-03 to 3-03.

This game will have served as ideal preparation for their next fixture which will be a knock-out championship game in the next few weeks. The U-16 girls kickstarted their league/ championship campaign with a home game against a strong Danesfort side. Two evenly matched teams gave little away but on the stroke of halftime the Danesfort girls broke through for a defining goal to take a four point lead into the break.

Throughout the 2nd half The Village girls fought bravely to recover but the concession of further goals put paid to their chances as the Danesfort team ran out comfortable 5-09 to 1-09 winners. Kate Larkin, Molly Purcell and Aoibh Lawlor worked hard in defence with solid back up from midfielder Mia Dunne. In attack the Leahy cousins Roisin and Laura along with Niamh Moore tried their best to break down a solid Danesfort defence.

JUNIOR HURLING LEAGUE After a rocky start to this 7th round Junior league fixture in Larchfield, James Stephens eventually found their rhythm after Ryan Scanlon rattled the net from a Robbie Hayes won penalty in the 7th minute. Helped by the fact that The RowerInistioge failed to convert many scoring opportunities from placed balls the home team continued to hold a narrow 1-03 to 0-03 after 15 minutes. After Dinny Stapleton scored with a long range punt from the sideline in the 17th minute the hard working midfield pairing of James Tyrrell and Michael Byrne chipped in with a point each to increase the Village lead at 1-06 to 0-03 at the 24th minute. Robbie Hayes finished the half with a point to give James Stephens a 1-08 to 0-06 lead at halftime. With a watertight defence spearheaded by a halfback trio of Paddy Keogh, David Hennessy and Jackie Tyrrell there was little opportunity for The Rower forwards to shine. Behind them full back Ben Lawlor excelled with strong performances from Sam McEvoy,and Luke Hickey in front of the safe hands of goalkeeper Daniel Power.

On the turnover a quick-fire hat trick of points from Ryan Scanlon after Stephen Manogue opened the half with a point in the 3rd minute widened the lead at 1-12 to 0-07 for The Village men after 10 minutes. Then when Stephen Manogue goaled from a Shane Guilfoyle tapped down pass in the 14th minute the fate of The Rower-Inistioge side was firmly sealed at 2-15 to 0-08. The Rower men fought on and secured a goal in the 20th minute but were unable to make any further inroads on the James Stephens lead who went on to claim a deserved 2-21 to 1-12 victory. Their next fixture is scheduled to take place on Saturday 2nd September at 2pm, against Erins Own in Ballyragget.

FRAN DOYLE REMEMBERED On Sunday week last, at the invitation of Graiguenamanagh

GAA Club, the James Stephens minor team played a memorial Challenge match against the Graiguenamanagh minor team to honour the memory of one of their club’s finest young sportsmen, the late Fran Doyle who died tragically in 1992.

Only weeks before his passing Fran had played a starring role with his team Graiguenamanagh/ Blacks & Whites in the 1992 Kilkenny minor hurling county final against James Stephens. The championship decider in Nowlan Park ended level at 1-10 to 0-13 with James Stephens shading a narrow 2-09 to 1-09 victory in extra time in a thrilling replay fixture to secure the title. At a sun drenched Dr. Tierney Park on Sunday 20th August the Graiguenamanagh minor hurlers deservedly won the Fran Doyle Memorial Trophy giving a fine display of hurling against a spirited James Stephens side before a large attendance. After the game a James Stephens jersey signed by members of the victorious 1992 team who were present at the game was presented to the Doyle family and was very much appreciated. Graiguenamanagh club chairman,Tom Holden welcomed both teams, officials and the large attendance, with a special word of appreciation for the James Stephens club for supporting the well-deserved tribute event for a fine young sportsman, the late Fran Doyle. (Report by Liam Tyrrell) DEVELOPMENT SQUADS Congratulations to the James Stephens players who contributed to the Kilkenny U-16 Development squad’s victory over Wexford in the final of the Michael Foley U-16”A” Tournament on Saturday. Playing a leading role in the victory were Conor Heffernan, Conor McEvoy and Bill McDermott. In the semi-final against Cork, Padraig Joyce pulled off two outstanding saves to help secure the win while James Bergin excelled in the centre of defence.

In the Tony Forrestal U-14 tournament Kilkenny came up short in their opening fixture losing by a point to Tipperary but redeemed themselves with an excellent 1-14 to 1-10 victory over Cork in the shield final. Captained by full forward Ruairi Power the winning team included clubmates Paddy Purcell at fullback, Oliver Phelan at centre back and Jack Mulcahy in corner forward all of whom played pivotal roles in the hard won victory. Ruari Power topped off a memorable day winning the “Man of the Match” award for his performance in the final.

In the Arrabawn U-15”A” shield final the Kilkenny team with impressive contributions from The Village contingent of Cian Dermody, Rory Glynn, Andrew Brennan, Diarmuid Behan and Larry Phelan came out on top against Cork.

Meanwhile, over in Dicksboro the U-11 hurlers, having been eliminated at the semi-final of the cup competition, went on to claim the Denis Philpott shield trophy beating Tipperary club Moycarkey/Borris in the final. To see so many club players contributing positively to the county’s representative panels is surely a complement to the coaching and training programmes managed by the club’s Juvenile committee.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 1 : 8 : 26 : 31. There was no winning ticket. This week’s jackpot will be €7,400. The €40 consolation winners were P.J.McGrath, Joan Cody, Breda Brennan, Emer Larkin and Eoghan Murphy.

GOWRAN PANTO Following the sold out shows in February this year, Gowran Panto Society hold their AGM in the Parish Hall on Monday 4th September at 7.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend. The group needs more committee members. Parents of children interested in being in the upcoming shows (production date expected to be mid-February 2024) are asked to consider joining the committee. There will be about 10 meetings in the

year – so it’s limited commitment.

Maybe you have a particular set of skills you feel would be useful. We are looking for organisers, fundraisers, set builders, electricians, painters, costume makers, and even just adults that can supervise in rehearsals and on show nights. And lastly we require an enthusiastic adult cast. So if you fancy trying a one line acting role or something more challenging why not give it a try.

LINE DANCE CLASSES Beginners line dance classes starting in September,every Wednesday evening 6.30p.m.- 7.30p.m. St John of God N.S Upper New Street. All welcome ! Great fun !

SENIOR GIRLS STORM TO COMPREHENSIVE VICTORY Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Senior Camogie League Round Two Young Irelands Gowran 3-15. Tullaroan 0-10 The Young Irelands Senior Camogie girls produced a superb team performance to totally dominate Tullaroan on a wet miserable morning/early afternoon in Gowran on Sunday.

However, The Young Irelands performance was bathe in sunshine,and it was a glorious sunny afternoon afterwards and the catalyst for their victory was the dominance around the middle third area.

Nicole Carter led the way with a colossal display at CentreBack, while alongside her Marie O’Keeffe was magnificent along with her Ciara in Midfield. Steffi Fitzgerald led the way upfront with a 5-star-performance at Centre-Forward as she scored 0-9(0-4 frees), while Tiffanie worked tirelessly. Indeed, it was Tiffanie who got the ball rolling right from the outset in the very first minute, as her long range effort saw the sliotar slip from the grasp of The Tullaroan goalkeeper. It gave Young Irelands the most perfect start, and they were in total control afterwards. The hardworking Emma Farrell and Julie Lennon added points immediately following that goal as they were 1-2 to 0-0 up after just three minutes.

The Gowran girls outscored Tullaroan 0-6 to 0-1 for the remainder of the half from the 12th minute as they led 1-9 to 0-1 at half-time. Four of those points came from Steffi Fitzgerald (including two frees), while Julie Lennon and Ciara O’Keeffe also kept the scoreboard ticking over.

The game was put firmly beyond Tullaroan’s reach at the start of the second-half, thanks to goals from the tireless working full-forward Kate Drennan and Amy Lennon as they built up a staggering 3-9 to 0-1 lead.

The rest of the game was a procession as Young Irelands remained in total control.Steffi Fitzgerald added 0-5 in a row (including three from play), while Julie Lennon also added another point for good measure as they introduced substitutes Ciara Byran, Ellie Murray and Aisling Rudkins.

Tullaroan finished with five consecutive points, as Young Irelands goalkeeper Hannah Brennan kept a clean sheet.

Her highlight came towards the end of the match where she pulled off a miraculous save to deny Tullaroan a certain goal.

Young Irelands certainly laid down a marker on Sunday, but sterner examinations lie ahead and next up is Dicksboro away who easily defeated Thomastown 1-25 to 0-10.

YOUNG IRELANDS: Hannah Brennan, Mia Murphy, Eimear Naddy, Maeve O’Neill, Aisling Fitzpatrick, Nicole Carter, Marie O’Keeffe, Ciara O’Keeffe(0-1), Tiffanie Fitzgerald(1-1), Emma Farrell(0-1), Steffi Fitzgerald (0-9 0-4 frees), Sarah O’Donnell, Julie Lennon (0-3), Kate Drennan(1-0), Amy Lennon(1-0), Meanwhile, The Young Irelands U-14s continued their rich vein of form as they cruised to a 9-3 to 2-2 win against John Lockes of Callan in The Roinn A Championship following a storming first-half performance, but unfortunately disappointment for The Minor Camogie Team who lost 5-9 to 0-4 against Glenmore.

FAMILY FUN DAY

SHEEPDOG TRIALS The Sheepdog Trials in Newhouse, Thomastown last week drew a large crowd of spectators and enthusiasts to the venue. It was held over three days and there were a good number of caravans and camper vans on site so competitors were there for the complete show. It was very well laid out with ample catering tents, coffee stalls and various stalls selling animal foodstuffs and other items. It brought to mind the Sheepdog trials run in conjunction with the Bennettsbridge Festival back in the sixties.

LOTTO No winner of Jackpot last week. Numbers, 1, 6, 11, 27. Jackpot now €2,500.00. Consolation Prizes, Shangarry Syndicate, Brian Costigan, Geraldine Denieffe, Kilbline, Pearl Egan, Norewood Heights, Michael and Anne Dobbyn, Gowran Road.

CHURCH NEWS Weekday mass times. Wednesday 10.30am. Thursday 10.30am. Weekend Masses. Tullaherin, Saturday 8pm. Bennettsbridge, Sunday 10.30am PHIL O’CONNELL RIP Sympathy is extended to the family of the late Phil O’Connell, nee Dunne, Newhouse, Thomastown and formerly from Kells, Co Kilkenny. Phil passed away peacefully at home on the 20th August. Pre-deceased by her infant son David. Dearly beloved wife of Walter and loving mother of Sandy, Barry, Claire and Rose. Deeply regretted and sadly missed by her loving family, sons-in-law Jamie, Graham and Enda, sisters, brother, sistersin-law, brothers-in-law, her adoring grandchildren Laura, Jasmine, Jason, Oísin, Fionn, Tadhg, Senan, Lily, Odhrán, great grandson Rory, her nieces, nephews, extended family, relatives and friends.

Family, relatives, and friends gathered at Phil’s home in Killarney, Thomastown, on Wednesday, 23 August from 4pm concluding with Rosary and vigil prayers at 7pm. Removal took place on Thursday morning to St Kieran’s Church, Tullaherin for Requiem Mass at 11am followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.

Phil was very involved in parish affairs for many years and was a founder member of the Penny Bank and Parish Lotto. She will be missed by all especially her husband and family. Rest in peace Phil!

CARDS RESULTS 8th August. 1st Prize, Brian Blackmore/Annie Lehane (13 games). 2nd Prize,Neddie Walsh/Michael Kenneally (10 games). Table Prize Tommy Hayes/Jack Bolger 15th August. 1st Prize Pat O’Neill/Bridget Cottrell(10). 2nd

Angela and Tommy Hayes supporting the Danesfort Field Day on Sunday last

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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Community & GAA Notes Bennettsbridge Set Dancers entertained the crowd at the Danesfort Field Day

Prize. Frank O’Neill/Michael Phelan(9 games). Table Prize Kathleen O’Neill/Joan Bolger 22nd August. 1st Prize. Bridget Murphy/Tommy Hayes(13 games). 2nd Prize Bridget Cottrell/Marie Reid(10 games).

Table Prize Mary Cummins/Mary Doyle CAMOGIE Well done to the Junior Camogie team who had a fine win over Dicksboro in the Premium Junior League played in Callan, Bennettsbridge 3.16, Dicksboro 3.08.

GAA Senior Hurling; Best of luck to our senior team who play Ballyhale Shamrocks in the fourth round of the senior league/ championship in Thomastown next Saturday at 2 pm.

We hosted Graiguenamanagh and St Lachtain’s in the junior championship last Saturday. Thanks to all our stewards for their help once again on the day to ensure every-thing ran smoothly.

Tony Forristal Tournament; Well done to Jamie Walsh who played on the Kilkenny under 14 team that won the Tony Forristal shield in Waterford last weekend. Congratulations to Jamie and his teammates.

O’Neills On-line Club Shop; Check out the new additions to the Bennettsbridge O’Neill’s club shop. A training top and shorts have been added to the range. To access the full range of club gear simply go to the O’Neill’s website and enter Bennettsbridge in the search box.

SPLIT THE POT Well done to Andrea Kelly who won 142 euro, Brendan Doran who won 30 euro and to Ann Kelly, Newtown, who won 20 euro. Thanks for the continued support.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 24th August 2023. Nos: 2 7 20 31. Jackpot: €11,690 Not Won. Draw Prizes – €50: Shane Kavanagh c/o S Kavanagh. €25 each L M L c/o Ned Buggy. €25 each Babs Cantwell c/o Ned Buggy. €25 each M Agearne

c/o online. Hurlers Co Op Draw M Gaffney Snr c/o Online.

Promotors prize Ann Tynan. Thank you for your continued support.

DENIS PHILPOT TOURNAMENT The annual Denis Philpott Tournament took place in Palmerstown last Saturday with 16 teams partaking from several counties. Dicksboro, O’Loughlins, James Stephens, Birr, Ballyboden St Endas, St Sylvesters, Naas GAA and Moycarkey Borris all provided 2 equal strength teams which led to a great days hurling by all. Massive thanks to all these clubs and players for travelling and participating. A big thank you to all our club volunteers who helped on the day and especially The Philpott Family and Barry Henderson for their Trojan work to provide such a fantastic day and tribute to Denis.

Finally a big thanks to Glenveagh Homes for their sponsorship and support to this Tournament.

CLUB CAMOGIE Our Minors started their Championship Campaign on Wednesday last with a strong win against Windgap. The Junior team played John Lockes/ Bennetsbridge on Saturday and unfortunately fell a little short John Lockes/Bennetsbridge utilised the strong wind in the second half giving them the win. Our Senior Team played Thomastown on Sunday afternoon in Thomastown with another strong performance by the girls gives them a 2 out of 2 win.

ST. KIERAN’S COMMUNITY HALL 500 CLUB DRAW Winners for August were €750 Hannie Grace (Evelyn Sweeney), €300 Mary Fogarty (Peter Norton), €200 Paul and Kate O’Dwyer, (Peter Norton), €100 Sean Hogan (Peter Norton), €100 Tom Kavanagh (Kevin Murphy). Congratulations to all.

Next draw is on September. 30th. Tickets €10 available from the shops and promoters.

MR. LIAM HANRAHAN RIP Sincere sympathy to Catherine, John and Thomas Hanrahan, Main Street. on the death of their uncle Liam Hanrahan, following an accident. Liam lived in Thurles but was originally from Bayswell, Crosspatrick. Predeceased by his parents Michael and Bridget, brothers Sean and Tim, sisters Sheila and Sr. Margaret and nephew Michael, he will be greatly missed by his wife Ursula, sons Michael, Clive and Niall, daughter Chiara, grandchildren, son in law, daughters in law, relations, friends and neighbours. He was buried in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Thurles after Requiem Mass.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is also extended to Barry Manning, manager of the local filling station, who has been bereaved by the tragic death of his lovely niece Nikki following an accident in Clonmel.

NEW PROPRIETOR Good wishes to Stephen Geoghgan the new proprietor of “The old Maine Road” (Paschals) public house in the village.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO Winning numbers 3,9,12,26. There were seven match threes Joe Dowd, The Murphy Clan Spudz, Freddie Fox, Stephen Geoghgan, Mary Grehan, Margaret Bergin and Mary Hughes.

Denis Philpott Tournament

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 11am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 11am to 1pm WELCOME To our new Parish Priest, Fr James Walton. We wish him every blessing and happiness as he takes up his new role in the parish.

SPECIAL THANKS

Sincere thanks to Fr Pat Murphy and Fr Christy O’Dwyer for their assistance and support over the past six months in the parish.

VOCATIONS 2023 is the year for vocations to the priesthood. Leaflets are left in the church and anyone interested in having a chat or would like to find out more information, please contact Fr. Joe Walsh of the Thurles parish.

TABLE QUIZ A table quiz will take place on the 15th September 2023 in Mary Willies Pub in aid of the Hope Foundation. This table quiz will be hosted by Alex Bartley and Sophie Woodlock.

Amazing prizes to be won.

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 4349106 GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to last weekend’s winner, Mary Tobin from Urlingford, who won €362 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of September will be in support of Ballysloe Sensory Garden.

The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated PETER BEHAN RIP The death has occurred of Peter Behan, The Commons, Thurles, Co. Tipperary on August 19th. Peacefully surrounded by his family at University Hospital Clonmel, Predeceased by his parents Peter and Margaret, brother Christy and baby sister Kathleen. Deeply regretted by his wife Patricia, his family Peter, Brendan, Marie, David and Paul, their partners, his 11 grandchildren, brother Tommy, brothers-in-law, sistersin-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Peter reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home, Urlingford, last Tuesday evening. Removal took place last Wednesday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe, for Requiem Mass followed by burial in the Good Shepherd Cemetery, Gortnahoe. May he rest in peace.

CHRISTOPHER WALL RIP The death has occurred of Christopher Wall (Arderin Way, The Glen, Cork and late of Fennor, Gortnahoe, Co. Tipperary.) On 26th August peacefully in the presence of his family in the excellent care of St. Christopher’s Ward Marymount. Christopher (Late of Irish Steel) much loved husband of Sheila (née Morrissey). Loving father of Sharon, Victoria, Susan, Deirdre, Christopher, Ann, Alison, much loved brother of Paddy, Michael, Tom, Tony, sisters Liz, Ann, and the late Luke, Sean, Mary, Bridget and Georgie, sons-in-law Brendan, Dominic, the late Michael, Tomás, Sean, daughter-in-law Michelle.

Christopher will be sadly missed by his heartbroken family, his adored 21 grandchildren and 5 great - grandchildren, brother-in-law Sean, sisters-in-law, his nieces, nephews, extended family and great neighbours. Christopher reposed in Keohane’s Funeral Home, Knights Hill, Old Youghal Rd, Mayfield, yesterday Tuesday 29th August. Reception into St. Brendan’s Church, The Glen, today Wednesday 30th August for Requiem Mass. Followed by cremation at The Island Crematorium. May he rest in peace.

GAA Congratulations to Mark Doheny and Josh Dowling who were involved in their respective tournaments for the Kilkenny U16A and U15A teams. Mark Donhenys side played against Cork and beat Wexford by 3pts to win out the Michael Foley tournament Josh Dowling despite injury was there to support his Kilkenny teammates in the Arrabawn tournament and become U15A All- Ireland shield Champions.

The Under 19 side lost out to a strong Emeralds on a scoreline of 5-21 to 2-13. The Junior side were in action against Tullogher on Sunday in a very tough fought contest that could have seen either side victorious or a draw result the St Patrick’s men pushed on in the closing minutes to win on a scoreline of 1-14 to 1-12. This week’s fixtures will see the Junior side play Freshford in Freshford on Sunday at 2pm.

LOTTO The lotto jackpot was won at €20,000 Congratulations to the lucky winner. The new jackpot stands at €15,250 many thanks to all for their continued support of this vital fundraising.

BINGO Bingo continues in the CYMS Hall on Wednesday nights.

LOURDES INVALID FUND Many thanks to all who supported the Lourdes Invalid Fund in The Wheel Inn last Sunday night.

CAMOGIE Naomh Brid Erin’s Own Minor team we’re in action against Carrickshock they played well but came up short on the result. The Under 16 side played against Piltown 4-11 Naomh Brid Erin’s Own 3-4 SYMPATHIES Sympathies to the family of Joseph (Joe) Keaveney of Dublin formerly of Ballyragget to his brother John, sister in law Bernie, his nieces, nephews, cousins and wide circle of friends.

BALLYRAGGET NOTES Please if you wish any notes to be included please send same by email no later than Sunday evening at 6pm.

CONAHY HURLING AND CAMOGIE The junior B hurlers bowed out of the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior B championship at the semi-final stage when they were defeated by Tullogher-Rosbercon in Tullogher on Friday night. The home side were the better side throughout most of the first half, and they led by 0-12 to 0-5 at the half way point.

Conahy responded well in the second half and managed to reduce the deficit to a single point thanks mainly to a goal from Jack Murphy. However, Tullogher finished strongly to score 1-3 without reply to eventually win out by 1-18 to 1-11.

Hard luck to all the players involved and their management team of Mick Kelly, Tony Gunner and Paul Byrne.

TEAM: Padraic Delaney, Conor Duggan, Brian Healy, John Paul Gamble, Frank Gunner, Padraig Gunner, Darragh Hennessy, Eoin Carroll, Darragh Dooley, John Mullan, Jack Murphy, Bill Murphy, Robert Ring, Brooklyn Synott. Subs.: Sean Brennan.

The senior camogie girls were also second best to Windgap in their second round game of the Michael Lyng Motors Senior League/Championship in Windgap on Saturday afternoon last. Two fine goals from Ellen Gunner in the opening quarter kept Conahy in touch against a strong Windgap side, who led by 1-12 to 2-4 at the midway mark. Conahy’s indiscipline would cost them dear as they conceded a lot of points from Windgap frees. In the end, Windgap had plenty to spare in the end, winning 1-23 to 2-9. Conahy will be looking to get back to winning ways on Monday week, September 4th, when they play host to St. Martin’s in Jenkinstown at 6.45 p.m.

TEAM: Ruth Phelan, Ciara Brennan, Orlaith Walsh, Amy Morrissey, Aisling Maher, Roisín Phelan, Caoimhe Hennessy, Katie Brennan, Katie Brennan, Molly O’Dornan, Ellen Gunner, Emily Murphy, Amy Brennan, Emma Mulhall, Sofia Kerr.

Jack Rhatigan (Under-15), Rory Rhatigan (Under-14) and Billy Rowe (Under-14) also represented the club on the Kilkenny development squads who played in the Arrabawn and Tony Forristal inter-county tournaments on Saturday last. Well done to the three lads for this great achievement.

DEVELOPMENT FUNDRAISER Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club have launched a major development fundraiser, and are seeking the support of everyone in the community to ensure its success. The club are aiming to undertake a significant upgrade to the facilities in the Polo Grounds, which will initially see the increase of parking facilities, an extra entrance/exit point to ensure safe access to the grounds, and the provision of an astroturf playing pitch and ball wall. This will come at a significant cost, and while the club are seeking National Lottery funding to assist with this, it must also fundraise a large portion of the cost.

The fundraiser will involve a ticket draw, with the winner receiving a new Hyundai Tucson car or €35,000 in cash.

Tickets for the draw will be €25 each, or three for €65, or five for €100. The club is appealing in particular to all GAA club members, parents of children involved in Bórd na nÓg activities and parents/player members of Conahy Camogie club to assist as much as possible with this fundraising draw, either in buying or selling as many tickets as possible. Tickets have and will continue to be given to club members to sell amongst their friends and relations. A website that will allow the purchase of tickets for the draw will be live in the coming weeks, and the draw will also actively be promoted on social media platforms. All support would be greatly appreciated for what will be a development to benefit both young and old in the community.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 9, 10 and 14. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Eoin Cahill, Ann Burke, The Goose c/o D Maher, Helen & Mick Cahill and Danny Webster. The promoters’ prize winners were Helen Cahill, Anne Downey and Seamus Óg Brennan.

DATE FOR THE DIARY The ABBA tribute band “Abbaesque” will play in Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club House on Saturday, October 6th, not September 30th as previously advertised. Details on tickets, etc., will be publicised in the coming days.

FUNDRAISER Support Tom McGrath who is running the Dublin City Marathon to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. On 16th September he will hold his main fundraiser in the Pound, Ballycallan. There will be music from local artistes, a raffle and an auction. Admission is only €5. Door prizes include a car trailer of timber, meal voucher, signed Kilkenny Jersey and silver package tickets to Gowran Race Park. Auction items include timber, turf, meal vouchers, concert tickets and prizes from local businesses. If you feel you can help in any small way with buying/selling door or raffle tickets, or just by spreading the word, contact Tom on 086 378 5406, Vera on 086 818 0948, Adrian on 087 255 1197 or Siobhan on 086 394 6580. Donations or payments can also be made on Revolut @ siobhan863946580.

LOTTO RESULTS Results for 21/08/23. Numbers drawn were 4; 12; 14; 20.

Lucky Dip winners were Sophia Malone, Josie Ronan and Ciaran Hoyne. Sellers’ prizes went to Michael Murphy and Pat Comerford. Next week’s jackpot will be €16,200 and draw will take place on Monday 28th August at 9pm.

KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com.

If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

We welcome all GAA Club and Community notes for publication in The Kilkenny Observer email to sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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Hurling matters

Sport

Top boy to kee winn

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling LeagueChampionship 2023 After a little bit of downtime, it’s back down to business this weekend as the St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Championship reaches Round 4. At senior level, Glenmore and Dicksboro have been setting the early pace, and are the only unbeaten sides in the competition.

There has been much talk about who might be best placed to throw down the gauntlet to Shamrocks Ballyhale’s quest for a sixth consecutive county title, and at this stage both group leaders will fancy their chances of giving it a real good crack this season. In terms of a league final pairing, the prospect of a Glenmore vs Dicksboro clash is one to whet the appetite.

The current holders have been known to start their season slowly, and this has been the case since the club season resumed. This weekend, Pat Hoban’s charges head to Thomastown to tackle Bennettsbridge (Sunday 2pm).

Tim Dooley’s side have had decent league campaigns over the last couple of seasons and have an identical record to this weekend’s opponents after the opening 3 rounds of fixtures.

The Bridge have been quite tight in defence, and have the best record across both groups. It’s on at the other end that things perhaps haven’t been quite as fluid. Only The men from Castlecomer have troubled the umpire’s flags less across the three games played this season. Dooley will hope that the reliable Nicky Cleere and Sean Morrissey will be ably supported by Stephen Holden and Jack Campion as they seek upset Shamrocks on Sunday.

The recent return to club action of County star David Blanchfield will have provided a timely boost to Bennettsbridge and this should Shane Walsh is in top form

give them another great option as the season progresses.

Following their win last time out, TJ Reid spoke about how that had hoped to have 6 points on the board by the break. As they prepare to meet the Bridge, they have half that total and will hope to show further improvement with two games remaining as they know the chasing pack are lining up to try and knock them down. County men, TJ, Adrian and Eoin were very prominent in their recent win over Graigue Ballycallan, scoring the majority of their sides total and will look to lead the way.

Group A leaders and unbeaten Glenmore take on Graigue Ballycallan in John Locke Park tonight and will hope to continue their good form when they tackle Eugene Cloonan’s men. The Pairc na Ratha based side have looked like a well-drilled unit so far this season and have a great blend of

skill and grit in equal quantities that has seen them win their first three outings.

Bob Aylward will hope that the Murphy brothers will pick up where they left off and drive Glenmore on again. County netminder Eoin is so comfortable playing the crucial ‘6’ role that you forget his intercounty exploits between the sticks! With Shane driving forward instigating many attacks and Alan deadly accurate from the placed ball, the Murphy clan provide a great platform for the like of the hugely talented Ian Byrne, Dean Croke and Cathal Beirne to shine in front of goal.

The Tom Ryall Park men will take to the pitch knowing that they could find themselves in another relegation shoot-out, having got the better of Lisdowney last season. Standout performer, Billy Ryan will need others round him to step up and try and secure

further points to lift the pressure.

There is a good blend of youth and experience in the current side, and the likes of Ryan Corcoran, Colum Prenderville, Aaron McEvoy and the placed ball man, Sean Ryan will look to step up for the Tommy Ronan led side.

Brian Cody’s Village side will hope to secure a second win when the go into battle with the men from Castlecomer in Muckalee this evening. Having secured a share of the spoils against the Bridge during storm Betty in their most recent game, the legendary boss will hope that less testing conditions may prove fruitful against Erins Own. Key forward Eoin Guilfoyle can be relied on to keep the scoreboard ticking over, while the talented Cian Kenny can inspire this James Stephens - to keep progressing.

Tonight’s opponents, Erins Own have just the 1-point to show for their endeavors, and that was a

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Hurling matters

s out ep on ning!

Glenmore & Dicksboro primed for Round 4

the way is young Harry Shine.

The talented attacker has been causing plenty of problems to opposition defences and he will look to continue this trend against the Vegas Boys. Harry has good company in Cillian Hackett and Mark Nolan and when you factor in Andy Gaffney and Liam Moore, you can see how captain Bill Sheehan leads his side with great hope.

Mullinavat’s mission to pull away from Danesfort at the bottom of Group B doesn’t get any easier, and it’s hard to build a case for Colm O’Byrne’s side doing so tomorrow.

Having got maximum points from their match with Danesfort, defeats to Tullaroan and O’Loughlin’s followed, the former saw the ‘Vat concede 6-21 and this certainly gave them food for thought. Their final group game with Clara could well determine who finishes in the relegation places.

Brian Hogan’s will be keen to see his O’Loughlin’s side claim maximum points when they take on Clara in Gowran tomorrow.

Hogan will be acutely aware that The Sash are on their tails and any slip-up could see Ken Coogan’s charges overtake them as both sides look to secure 2nd place in Group B. Paddy Deegan and co should have too much quality for Clara, but as you well know, taking things for granted can sometimes lead to getting turned over, but multiple All-Ireland winner Hogan, will do his best to ensure that his city side maintain focus and record their 3rd win of this season’s campaign.

Tullaroan face Danesfort this weekend and will hope to add to their impressive scoring record in Castlecomer. It has been more than a rude awakening for Willie Coogan’s side on their return to the

Liam Hennessey will look to get on the ball for Glenmore

top table, but the experienced boss knows that bringing through up and coming players in the cauldron of senior hurling. Paul Murphy and Richie Hogan will undoubtably inspire the younger generation like Daire O’Neill, Ben Whitty and Des Dunne. Manager Coogan knows that it’s a difficult path remaining

in the league but is confident that come championship his side will be more competitive.

The Sash and their strong spine that we spoke about last week should possess too much for Danesfort. While the name Walsh continues to impress, Shane has been the standout of the clan and

looks primed to do damage at the home or Erins Own. Should the unlikely happen and Dicksboro slip up, Tullaroan will want to well placed to take advantage.

When this round of fixtures is complete, we will know what’s at stake come Round 5 at both ends of tables. It’s heating up nicely.

St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League-Championship 2023 Round 4 fixtures

Eoin Guilfoyle Village dangerman

draw with holders Shamrocks Ballyhale, and in truth it’s hard to see Sean Dempsey’s outfit getting enough points on the board to avoid being involved in relegation matters in the coming weeks. The ‘Comer men are heavily reliant on the placed ball shooting of Jack Buggy and will look to Conor’s Delaney and Fogarty to try and kickstart their push off the bottom of Group A. Group B trailblazers, Dicksboro will look to cement their place at the top when they face-off against Mullinavat tomorrow in Dunnamaggin. Michael Walsh’s men have been mightily impressive so far this season, currently the top scorers across both groups, and second only to Tim Dooleys Bennettsbridge in terms of scores conceded. The Palmerstown outfit have looked well drilled and well coached as they racked up 3 from 3. Leading

Group A

Group B

Group A - Round 4 Fixtures

Group B – Round 4 Fixtures

Glenmore Vs Graigue Ballycallan Tonight, 6:30pm, John Locke Park Referee: Maurice Flynn

O`Loughlin Gaels Vs Clara Saturday, 1:30pm, Gowran Referee: John Kennedy

James Stephens Vs Erins Own Tonight, 6:30pm, Muckalee Referee: Patrick O Reilly

Dicksboro Vs Mullinavat Saturday14:00, Dunnamaggin Referee: Peter Burke

Shamrocks Ballyhale Vs Bennettsbridge Sunday, 2pm, Thomastown Referee: David Hughes

Tullaroan Vs Danesfort Saturday, 4pm, Canon Kearns Park Referee: Julian O Dwyer

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Motors Classifieds

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

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CONTACT JOE: 086-8587568

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Classifieds Motors

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, John and Padraig Tynan, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the construction of a lean-to type shed with slatted tank, conversion of an existing loose house to a cubicle house and associated site works at Ballycuddihy, Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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: - John and Padraig Tynan

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Shane Browner, wish to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to indefinitely retain the existing shed and to indefinitely retain the change of use of the shed as a vehicle repair garage and all associated works at Corluddy, Mooncoin, Co.Kilkenny.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, The Board of Management of the CBS Secondary School Kilkenny hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for retention planning permission for the provision of 2 No. classrooms, toilet facilities and all associated site development works at James’s Street, (formerly James Choices), Kilkenny. The site is located within the City Centre Architectural Conservation Area.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Board of Management of Scoil Mhuire N.S. Mooncoin hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the development as outlined below at Scoil Mhuire Senior School, Filbuckstown, Mooncoin, Co.Kilkenny. The proposed development will consist of: a single storey extension to the side of the existing school building to include the following: An S.E.N. classroom and ancillary accommodation.

Alterations internally to existing building to accommodate the new extension 02 new vehicular entrance points to new staff and dedicated S.E.N. parking areas Extend existing ballcourt Provide new external ramp and steps up to new entrance adjoining the S.E.N. All associated site development and ancillary works.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, The Board of Management of Scoil Mhuire N.S. Mooncoin hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the development as outlined below at Scoil Mhuire Junior School, Pollrone, Mooncoin, Co.Kilkenny. The proposed development will consist of: a single storey extension to the rear of the existing school building to include the following: 2 mainstream classrooms, 2 resource rooms, S.E.N. classroom and ancillary accommodation.

Minor alterations internally to existing building to accommodate the new extension Existing vehicular entrance to be widened New dedicated pedestrian entrance New staff and dedicated S.E.N. parking area New replacement ballcourt Decommissioning of the existing treatment plant and installation of a new wastewater treatment plant Removal of existing prefabricated buildings upon completion of the extension.

All associated site development and ancillary works.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Ken and Juliet Rogers, are applying for permission for erection of a dwelling house, domestic garage/store, treatment system and percolation area and all associated site works at Tinnaranny, Rosbercon, Co. Kilkenny.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny during its public opening hours 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Byrne & McCabe Design Ltd, Architecture and Engineering Services (059 9725684).

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Evergreen F.C intends to apply for Permission for Development at Kells Road, Dundaryark, Co. Kilkenny.

The development comprises construction of single storey building containing 8 no. changing rooms, toilets, shower facilities, storage and associated site works to replace existing temporary changing room building.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by Eoin Lyons and Arlene McGrath to construct a single storey dwelling house, domestic garage, provision of a new treatment plant & percolation area, new vehicular site entrance and all associated site developments works at Grange, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny.

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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by George Somers and Gillian Beale, for demolition of existing single storey extension to the side /rear, proposed single storey extensions to front, side and rear of existing single storey dwelling with elevational modifications, internal alterations to dwelling, partial demolition of existing shed with associated site works at Sheastown Lane, Kilkenny R95E9V. 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 Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning 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.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PATRICK “PADDY” MURRAY 3RD ANNIVERSARY Forever In Our Hearts Paddy/Dad Late of 3 Cathedral Square, Kilkenny whose anniversary occurs on September 4th.

We thought of you today But that is nothing new We thought of you yesterday And will tomorrow too We think of you in silence And make no outward show For what it meant to lose you Only those who love you know Remembering you is easy We do it everyday It’s the heartache of losing you That will never go away.

Loved and sadly missed by Margaret, Martina, Sharon Sinéad and Padraig.

Extended family and friends

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

JOHN SEAN CURRAN 8TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of John Sean Curran, late of Connolly Street, Kilkenny whose 8th anniversary occurs at this time.

Your needs in life were simple Your love for your family true In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you You always had a smile to share Time to give and time to care A loving nature, a heart of gold One of the best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind We cherish the memories you left behind Always remembered and sadly missed by your wife Mary, son John, grandson Jack, daughters Martina and Mary Nora and son-in-law Darren.

Anniversary Mass 3rd September at 11.30am in St Canices Church, Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.M.

St. Anthony Prayer

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.R.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. C.B.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1 September 2023