Kilkenny Observer 01st August 2025

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Transition Year What we learn, if anything from that school TY 

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Medicine is ‘good’ for us With only 15% tariff on pharma: but Government is still ‘uncertain’ Despite the reassurance by President Trump that pharmaceuticals would be taxed at 15% and no more upon entry to the US, there is still uncertainty in the Government and the EU about what products will be covered by the baseline 15% tariff following the EU/US trade deal.

Trump made his declaration

about the pharma tax on his return to Washington DC from Scotland where the trade deal was cemented.

However, the fate of other sectors important to Ireland is also unclear, with details yet to emerge about ­alcohol and some dairy products.

The EU is insisting that pharma tariffs will be capped at 15%,

on the basis of a “very clear political commitment” made by President Trump during talks with Ursula von der Leyen.

However, the US is doing a socalled Section 232 investigation into the pharma sector, a procedure that is independent of sectoral tariffs. This could lead to Trump slapping a high tariff on pharma companies, as he at-

tempts to strong-arm them into moving manufacturing back to America.

A senior Cabinet minister said there were still elements of the deal that Ireland was “in the dark” about.

“Where pharma and semiconductors end up post the section 232 investigations is still an unknown,” sources said.

“That’s where there’s a significant concentration from Irish perspective. So, we’re still in the dark about elements of it.”

While there were some positives from the deal, including the zero-for-zero arrangement on aviation, there is still “an open question” on pharma, they said.

“Pharma and semi-conduc-

Mulligans Pharmacy in Ferrybank and Tirlan Countrylife in Ballyhale have been named as Top 100. Stores in Ireland by Retail Excellence, the largest retail industry representative in the the country.

The Top 100 stores are part of the Elavon Retail Excellence Awards, established in 1997 to promote best practice and encourage high standards in the retail industry. The awards will are on Saturday, November 15 in Kilkenny.

An eclectic mix of choral singers and musicians, Airneán are a group of exciting young voices united by a love of choral music and a focus on Irish folk revival.

Their unique catalogue of arrangements, tasteful tone, and rich harmonies have helped them to find a niche in the Irish music scene.

They have grown from strength to strength during their first year on the road, winning two trophies at the Navan Choral Festival, and releasing their first studio single, Scáil, last May. On Tueday, August 5, Airneán will perform at St Canice’s Cathedral, during their 11-day tour of Ireland.

Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite.

Daylight robbery shocks residents

Talk about Sleepless In Seattle!

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

on sounds like white noise, rain sounds, and meditation music to fall asleep. By standardising the data per 100,000 people in each city, the analysis study reveals which areas are struggling most to switch off at night.

According to the data, 100 searches are made in Kilkenny each month for sleep-related audio. When adjusted for population, this equates to 368

See John Ellis Page 16 And also Page 6

Our stores in the Top 100

Airneán in choral recital at St Canice’s

Kilkenny has been named the most sleepless city in Ireland and the second most sleepless city in the world with residents turning to sound-based sleep aids to help them fall asleep.

A new sleep trend analysis conducted by hearing care specialists Audika, analysed Google search data across international cities to understand where people are relying most

tors is where a lot of this will rest and there’s still an open question about where they’ll end up.

“Certainly 30% – or a trade war lasting months – would have been worse but there is still concern about where they’ll [the tariffs] land.”

searches per 100,000 people, placing the city in the Top 5 nationally.

The Top 5 cities in Ireland with the highest number of sleep-sound-related searches per 100,000 people are: • Kilkenny – 368 • Dundalk – 325 • Drogheda – 249 • Derry – 212 • Dublin – 201

Kilkenny tops the national list, showing that sleep difficulties aren’t limited to major cities like Dubin, and that smaller cities may be turning to digital support more frequently.

Oliver Applebaum at Audika said: “Using sound to aid sleep has become increasingly popular, but it’s not always straightforward.

“For people experiencing

hearing issues, certain frequencies may be harder to perceive or may cause irritation.

This can affect how effective sound is in promoting sleep.

“If you find yourself relying on sleep sounds but still struggling to fall asleep, or needing to turn the volume up, your hearing could be part of the problem,” said Oliver Applebaum

Last week, a horrific breakin shocked residents of Greenfields and the Freshford Road area. In daylight, a home was violently ransacked while the owners were away, leaving the community shaken. Gardai are nvestigating and appealing for any CCTV footage or information from locals.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant, secure their properties, and report suspicious activity immediately. Crimes can happen even in daylight.

Why do people cheat partners?

Normally illicit romance is clandestine, with trysts in anonymous hotel rooms hidden from the public,. But Andrew Byron and Kirsten Cabot seemed like any other couple canoodling on a date at a Coldplay concert at a stadium just outside Boston.

Until they weren’t.

Marianne Heron Page 12

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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Maeve Kyle: Olympian who inspired a generation In the seven decades since the 1956 Melbourne Games, many Irish women have donned the green vest on the Olympic stage, but Maeve Kyle was the first to do so in athletics, carving a path where none had existed, leaving a trail that so many would follow.

She has died at the age of 96.

As Athletics Ireland stated in its tribute, Kyle was “a true pioneer of Irish sport and one of our most iconic and inspirational athletes”.

Born in Kilkenny in 1928, Kyle (nee Shankey) studied at Alexandra College and Trinity College in Dublin but lived most of her adult life in Co Antrim, settling in Ballymena with her husband Sean. In 1955, they founded Ballymena and Antrim Athletics Club, where she continued to coach well into her 80s.

Hockey Ireland described her as a “standout figure” who earned 46 international caps and a place on the World All-Star team in 1953 and 1959. Kyle also competed in tennis, swimming, sailing and cricket, but she was most renowned for her feats on the track.

At the 1956 Melbourne Olympics and the 1960 Games in Rome,

she raced in the 100m and 200m, while at Tokyo in 1964, she competed in the 400m and 800m. In 1966, Kyle won 400m bronze

at the European Indoors in Dortmund.

Ireland was a very different place during the decades of her career, with Kyle telling the Irish Independent in 2013 that female athletes were viewed similar “to how the Taliban

view Muslim women”.

Archbishop of Dublin John Charles McQuaid had stated that women who sought to compete in the vicinity of men were “un-Irish and unCatholic”.

Maeve Kyle continued to

coach into her 80s, rebelling against such archaic beliefs, with long-time Irish athletics team manager Patsy McGonagle saying she “wasn’t afraid of going to war.

“I remember her going to the door of the Bishop’s Palace and tackling [McQuaid], who wouldn’t let women take part in nationals”.

The Irish star of the Melbourne Games was Ronnie Delany, who won 1500m gold, and he had a lifelong friendship with Kyle, writing the foreword to The Remarkable Kyles , a book about her and Sean.

“I admire Maeve greatly, because of her contribution to sport close on six decades,” Delany wrote. “Her own achievements are well-chronicled, but what isn’t known is the enormous respect people like me hold for Maeve.”

Kyle was a life vice-president of Athletics Ireland and president of the Northern Ireland Athletic Federation in an era when female sports administrators were especially rare.

As former Athletics Ireland president Liam Hennessy said, she and Sean were “so incredibly enthusiastic, so articulate and they covered every aspect of the sport”.

Maeve Kyle is predeceased by her husband Sean and is survived by her daughter Shauna.

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The Pill: Ok lads, there’s no excuse for yez now A new male contraceptive pill tested on British men in a world first is safe for use, a study suggests.

Oral female contraceptive tablets have been available for 60 years but there has never been an authorised male version.

Female tablets work by altering hormone levels to reduce the risk of concep-

tion but this approach has proven difficult in men because of severe side-effects such as infertility and mood swings. These side-effects are common in female versions.

YourChoice Therapeutics has developed the first nonhormonal contraceptive for men which works by blocking the production of a protein, which is needed to produce

sperm, and not meddling with hormones.

The drug stops production of retinoic acid receptor alpha (RAR-alpha) in the body and this prevents it binding to vitamin A compounds and subsequently prevents sperm production.

Human trials began in 2023 when 16 healthy men who had already had a vasectomy

were recruited to test the safety of the drug in people.

Data, published last week, showed it to be safe and welltolerated with no clinically relevant side-effects in a significant step forward for the prospects of the drug, known as YCT-529.

The trial of the 16 men gave participants either the tablet or a placebo and conducted

analysis on the participants to measure their blood, urine, mood and overall health.

Four different dosages were tested and all were found to be well-tolerated. The highest dose was the same as what was shown to be effective as a contraceptive in animal trials.

There was no reduction in testosterone levels, sex drive

or any other hormonal imbalance, the scientists found.

“The positive results from this first clinical trial laid the groundwork for a second trial, where men receive YCT-529 for 28 days and 90 days, to study safety and changes in sperm parameters,” the study authors write in their peerreviewed study in the journal Communications Medicine.

Tariff deal: the good, the bad and the farmers The EU’s new trade agreement with the US falls short of Ireland’s hopes, but still offers a welcome improvement for the country’s dairy sector, which had faced steep and unpredictable tariffs in recent months.

Announced after final talks between US President Donald Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the deal avoids an escalation in transatlantic trade tensions and introduces a 15% tariff on EU agri-food exports to the US which is half the rate previously threatened.

While Irish exporters had pushed for a zero-tariff arrangement, the new framework is being cautiously welcomed by the Government and industry leaders as a better outcome than the status quo.

“This agreement means an end to the major uncertainty around US trade policy and avoids the very significant threats associated with a no-deal scenario,” said Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon.

“The United States is the second most important market for Irish agri-food, with exports valued at €2 billion last year.”

In particular, the removal of “stacked” tariffs is seen as a critical development for dairy producers. Irish butter exports had been subject to a combined tariff burden of more than 25pc, a long-standing 16pc duty plus a temporary 10pc surcharge added in April.

“The confirmation that EU exports will now be subject to a single 15pc tariff rate, with no additional stacked duties, is particularly important for Irish dairy products such as butter,” said Conor Mulvihill, Director of Dairy Industry Ireland (DII).

He added that although “all tariffs are regrettable” for a

sector that exports over 90% of its output, the simplification of the new tariff structure would make it easier for businesses to manage.

However, he cautioned that the broader structure of the agreement could still present risks for an integrated all-island dairy supply chain.

“We remain concerned about the broader implications of any tariff border on the island of Ireland,” he said.

“The dairy industry operates on an all-island basis, with integrated supply chains and cross-border trade in raw milk, ingredients, and finished products.

“Any divergence in tariff treatment between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland could introduce complexity, cost, and uncertainty for processors and farmers alike.”

DII also noted the agreement’s reference to a possible “zero-for-zero” tariff category for some agricultural products.

“DII encourages the government and EU institutions to seek clarity on whether Irish dairy products could be included in this list, which would offer further opportunities for growth in the US market,” said Mulvihill.

Minister of State Noel Grealish described the deal as a step toward certainty for Irish food and drink exporters, adding that the Department and Bord Bia would continue to support market access and development efforts.

Trump hailed the deal as “the biggest ever made,” while Von der Leyen called it “the best we could get”.

France called a framework trade deal between the US and EU a “dark day” for Europe, saying the bloc had caved in to Trump.

See John Ellis Page 16

Budget may see tax on family SUVs A tax on family SUVs is being considered among a number of options ahead of Budget 2026.

A weight penalty, similar to one already in place in France, has been flagged in the tax strategy papers published this week.

The tax applied in France since 2022 penalises cars that weigh 1,600kg, lower than the weight of an average SUV, according to the Irish Independent.

The latest Tax Strategy Group (TSG) papers were published earlier offering further hints as to the shape of Budget 2026.

The papers are published

by the Department of Finance every year and are a list of options to be considered as part of the budgetary process, covering everything from income tax to pensions, Vat and medical cards.

The TSG said the growing size and weight of cars on Irish roads caused multiple problems and a weight penalty could sway motorists towards smaller, lighter models.

The group said the average weight of cars in Ireland increased by 28pc in the 20 years to 2022 “and the upward trajectory is continuing”.

“This weight upsurge

is concerning for several reasons,” it said.

“Heavier vehicles, be they ICE [internal combustion engine] cars or electric vehicles, require greater energy and resource consumption for propulsion and at all stages of manufacturing.

“Heavier vehicle fleet creates further challenges in terms of traffic congestion, road infrastructure degradation, air pollution, road space and road safety.”

Cars under 1,800kg were initially exempt in France, with a €10 a kilo penalty payable over that limit.

Since then, the limit has been lowered to 1,600kg,

with a further reduction to 1,500kg planned, and the penalty has increased to €30 a kilo.

Electric vehicles (EVs) were exempt, hybrids were levied at a reduced rate, and allowances were built in for motorists with children.

In an Irish context, it is suggested an exemption or reduced rate might be needed for vehicles used for farming and other heavy work.

It does, however, say there is an argument for cutting benefit-in-kind liabilities for EVs employers provide to workers, which it said was affecting uptake.

Medicine costs set to be more ‘transparent’ The Pharmacy Regulator (PSI) has announced the launch of a public consultation on draft guidance to support enhanced transparency on the pricing of medicines, fees and professional services in pharmacies.

Patients and the public can then make informed decisions about their health and treatment.

It is inviting feedback on the draft guidance from members of the public, pharmacists, pharmacy owners, healthcare professionals, patient advo-

cacy groups and other stakeholders.

As the pharmacy regulator, the PSI is committed to assuring the safety and quality of pharmacy services in the public interest, and in upholding confidence in pharmacy.

Pharmacists, as healthcare professionals and experts in medicines, charge a range of fees for the services they provide.

While the PSI does not determine the prices charged by pharmacies, the regula-

tor expects pharmacies are transparent about the costs and fees associated with the dispensing of medicines and for pharmacy services.

In April this year the PSI was requested by the Minister for Health to consider the development of appropriate guidance so that patients have an improved understanding of the fees that they pay in respect of the products they are dispensed and the services they use in pharmacies.

The draft guidance, developed in response to the Min-

ister’s request, builds upon previously published direction to pharmacists on this topic.

The draft guidance adopts a principles-based approach to support pharmacists, pharmacy owners and pharmacy teams in meeting expectations around the provision of pricing information to patients and the public.

It also intends to be aligned and consistent with Ireland’s pharmacists’ obligations under the PSI Code of Conduct

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

What, if anything, we can learn from Transition year The American humorist and novelist Mark Twain said: “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.”

He might well have been addressing the more than students who have completed their Junior Cert and who, in 90% of cases, have the option of doing Transition Year.

The programme varies hugely from school to school.

Some offer TY on a select basis, or don’t offer it at all, while others mark the year as mandatory.

The Transition Year (TY) programme has been running since 1992 and is, in its own words, “designed to give teens a year to mature, learn new skills and gain both work and life experience”.

The entrepreneur Bill Cullen notoriously once said Transition Year was nothing but a “doss”.

Almost 20 years on, that notion still lingers among some parents and educators, despite the huge growth in

popularity of the ‘gap’ year.

There were just 27,000 pupils doing TY in 2009 when the outspoken businessman suggested it should be scrapped.

Nearly 80% of pupils surveyed by the Irish SecondLevel Students’ Union (ISSU) found TY to be a worthwhile experience, according to the report, ‘Transition Year: Exploring the Student Experience’.

But what about parents, who are one step removed from what’s really going on?

Undoubtedly some find it hard to adjust to the effect a dramatic change in school routine can have on their children.

Even those who embrace the whole idea can look on aghast as their teenagers seemingly ‘party, party, party’.

“I just couldn’t wait for it to be over – it was a total waste of time,” one mother told me, seemingly desperate for school-enforced study

to once again rein in her 15-year-old wild child.

Another saw it as akin to “a dangerous breeding ground for bad habits and excess socialising”.

But, of course, the beauty of the TY experience is that freedom that it offers: a chance for young people to forget about learning for exams and concentrate, perhaps – and Mark Twain would undoubtedly concur – on learning for life.

Whether this concept works in reality depends on the criteria of such – so varied – ranging from the quality of the programmes in schools and success in securing worthwhile work experiences, to the attitudes and personalities of individual children.

While the obligatory school trip is tops with most in TY, travel a broadening of minds and all that, though often a financial burden on some parents, and ‘dossing’ can

lend itself to new friendships and experiences, even if some not always desirable, the pre-

“Undoubtedly some find it hard to adjust to the effect a dramatic change in school routine can have on their children...

vailing conundrum seems to be the lack of workplace opportunities.

Where there are such places, the lack of any meaningful ‘work experience’. In short, the student is invited in, given somewhere to sit, and left to his or her own devices.

A spokesperson for one large company told me: “We stopped such a facility.

“Ours is not the right environment – the place is too busy and fast paced and really there’s little that a 15year- old can help on.

“We now tend to focus on more structured college placements.”

The website of one commuity says: “Schools and students [must] understand that due to the short nature of the placement, the tasks assigned may be of a low level and routine in nature.

However, it is important [for employers] to ensure that during their work placement,

students have the opportunity alongside the tasks they are assigned to observe as many processes as possible and to interact with staff and customers where feasible.”

A tall order it seems, with many companies just simply not geared up for such.

According to the ISSU, rural schools have more students unable to find work experience of interest.

Students, who live in urban areas with access to public transport, have greater opportunities to choose for their work experience.

Like most things in life, the TY programme is not an exact science. In the end it may well be down to the individual, to their maturity, their enthusiasm and their commitment.

At the end of the day you only ever get out of life what you put into it. Though that in itself can take a lifetime to learn ...

Good luck to all...

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New smartphone tech for deaf and hard-of-hearing Vodafone Ireland has announced the launch of RealTime Text (RTT), a breakthrough accessibility service designed to improve emergency communications for the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Vodafone Ireland is the first mobile operator in Ireland to introduce RTT. The service is now available for emergency

calls following pilot tests on the Vodafone network supported

by BT ECAS and ComReg. RTT is a next-generation messaging technology that enables text to be transmitted instantly, character by character, while maintaining a voice connection –eliminating the need to press 'send'. This creates a more natural, fluid communication experience, particularly

for deaf, hard of hearing, and speech-impaired users.

Vodafone Ireland customers using both Android and iOS devices can now activate Real-Time Text (RTT) directly via their handset accessibility settings. Once enabled, RTT allows users to send and receive text instantly during a call - making communication more accessible, especially for

the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Crucially, RTT is fully compatible with Ireland’s Emergency Call Answering Service, allowing users to communicate directly with 112 or 999 in real time. This capability can be lifesaving in urgent situations where every second counts.

Approximately 5%, almost 270,000, of the Irish population

reports a hearing impairment, according to latest Census data.

With the European Accessibility Act coming into effect last month, the need for inclusive digital communication has never been more urgent and RTT is a vital step forward in ensuring equal access for all, especially in critical services like emergency response.

The RTT service is natively

supported on smartphones that meet international accessibility standards. These devices allow character-bycharacter text transmission during voice calls, without requiring third-party apps or additional hardware. This ensures that users can communicate directly and immediately in emergency situations and in everyday interactions.

FSAI assures consumers on Listeria food safety The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) food recall of various branded spinach and mixed leaves products produced by McCormack Family Farms is underway due to the detection of Listeria monocytogenes.

To date, there are no cases of listeriosis associated with the spinach and mixed leaves products that are the subject of this recall. Also, there is no evidence that this food recall is linked with the listeriosis outbreak related to ready-toheat meals that is currently under investigation.

The FSAI is aware that consumers may be feeling anxious at the news of a second recall involving Listeria monocytogenes. While we urge people to be aware of the risks, and to take precautions when using ready-to-eat foods, they can be assured that there is a robust food control system in place in Ireland, which contributed to the identification of the latest need for a recall.

The FSAI advice, as always, is that if anyone has eaten any recalled foods and are feeling well, they do not need to do anything. However, if anyone has eaten any recalled foods and feels unwell, they should seek medical advice.

Listeriosis is an infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. It is usually acquired by eating contaminated food. The listeria bacteria that can cause illness is killed by cooking food thoroughly (i.e. until piping hot throughout).

Serious infection with Listeria monocytogenes is very rare. On average each year, there are between 14 and 22 cases of listeriosis reported in Ireland. Listeria poses a particular risk to elderly people, people with weakened immune systems, and pregnant women. These individuals in particular, should avoid higher risk foods and ensure

that they cook food thoroughly until piping hot, and in line with manufacturer’s instructions.

Listeria monocytogenes is widespread in the environment and gets into food via animals and plants. What sets it apart from many other harmful bacteria is its ability to survive and grow in moist cold environments; conditions found in food production factories.

Producers of ready-to-eat foods are aware of the need for strict controls to ensure the safe production of food.

Food producers actively control their food production environments for Listeria, so that factories and equipment are designed and operated to minimise the incidence of Listeria monocytogenes. This includes minimising water usage; fixing damaged walls, floors and equipment; robust cleaning and disinfection procedures; keeping air clean and restricting the movement of people and equipment in factory areas where food products are produced. Producers of ready-to-eat food must test factory areas and equipment for Listeria on a regular basis to pick up early signs that it may have contaminated their production processes.

They also test the finished food to verify that all the Listeria control measures in the factory are working as designed.

The FSAI and the official agencies carry out inspections of food production facilities and review all the control measures in place.

This includes examining the testing regimes for Listeria at the factory and also taking official control samples of food and equipment.

These official control samples are tested for Listeria monocytogenes in accredited laboratories run by the State.

Back to the garden ...

A special commemoration ceremony took place on Thursday, July 24 at the picturesque Woodstock Gardens and Arboretum to honour the memory and legacy of Andy Cotterell, Matt Drea and Anthony Tighe – three individuals whose vision, dedication and efforts were instrumental in the restoration and care of the historic gardens.

Under clear skies and warm sunshine, the event brought together family members, friends, and members of the local community in a moving tribute.

The natural beauty of the gardens provided a serene and fitting backdrop, with

sunlight shining down through the trees and casting a warm glow over proceedings.

Frank Stafford, Senior Engineer, Kilkenny County Council, warmly welcomed attendees and expressed gratitude to the Cotterell, Drea, and Tighe families for joining in the celebration of their loved one’s contributions.

Speaking on behalf of the Woodstock Committee, Chairperson Cllr. Michael Doyle said: “Today we honour not just the work, but the heart and soul that Andy, Matt and Anthony poured into Woodstock Gardens. Their legacy lives on in every path, tree and

bloom – and in the community they helped grow around this special place.”

He paid tribute to their remarkable efforts highlighting their leadership and shared belief in preserving the heritage and beauty of Woodstock Gardens.

John Delaney, Head Gardener, Woodstock Gardens offered a touching personal reflection on his colleague Matt Drea, recalling his quiet dedication, deep knowledge and the memories of their time working side-by-side in the gardens.

As a lasting tribute, a tree was planted in memory of each man. Frank Stafford noted that these living memorials will stand as endur-

ing symbols of their commitment and love for one of Ireland’s most treasured gardens. A commemorative plaque was unveiled, followed by a minute of silence in honour of Andy, Matt, and Anthony.

After the formalities, guests gathered at the Tea Room to share stories and memories, celebrating the lives of three men whose legacy will continue to bloom in the heart of Woodstock Gardens.

Pictured above: In the Garden of Remembrance, guests gather in Woodstock Tea Room Photo: Vicky Comerford

Our car wish-list is turning Japanese Search data and analysis from Carzone.ie shows the cars topping Ireland’s wish-list, and the makes and models most searched by potential buyers so far in 2025.

When it comes to the brands Irish people are looking for, European makes still dominate. BMW leads as the most searched make in 2025. Volkswagen, Audi and MercedesBenz follow.

A long-standing favourite, the Volkswagen Golf is the

most sought-after model this year. The other models most searched for include: 2. BMW 5 Series 3. Hyundai Tuscon 4. Audi A3 5. BMW 3 Series 6. BMW X5 7. Mercedes-Benz E Class 8. Audi A6 9. Volkswagen Tiguan While search data reflects a continued interest in European brands, new registration data for 2025

shows an increasing appetite for Japanese makes, especially among electric vehicle buyers. SIMI figures show Toyota as the most registered brand so far this year, closely followed by Volkswagen.

Hyundai continues to rise in popularity, currently the third most registered make in Ireland with 7,641 new registrations – an 8.4% increase on the same period in 2024. The Hyundai Tucson is Ireland’s most registered

new model, followed by the Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Yaris Cross.

Carzone.ie search data also shows that black is the most in-demand car colour, viewed more than twice that of the next most popular, white.

Grey rounds out the top three, confirming Ireland’s love of monochrome cars.

The SUV leads as the most viewed body type in 2025. Estate, saloon, and hatchback models follow.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Why do people cheat on their life partners?

There they were, hiding in plain sight. Normally illicit romance is clandestine, with trysts in anonymous hotel rooms hidden from the public gaze. But Andrew Byron and Kirsten Cabot seemed like any other couple canoodling on a date at a Coldplay concert at a stadium just outside Boston.

Until they weren’t.

Their liaison, perhaps innocent not dangereux, came to light far from the usual nudge-and-wink of being spotted together with the wrong partner. It went viral, initially caught on the allseeing eye of the Kiss Cam. There they were on screen together, as thousands watching expected them to play the game and embrace. Instead, Byron ducked out of sight, the incident was caught on phone video and posted on social media.

Whatever was going on it looked bad, as both parties are married to others and

even worse when Byron happened to be the CEO of a company and his squeeze was his HR manager. The fallout from being caught on camera continues. Byron has resigned from his position as CEO at the AI company Astronomer and Cabot is on leave.

The story begs the question why do people cheat? Why, given the betrayal, the hurt to families, the threat to jobs and futures, put everything at risk?

Most of us believe in our heart-of-hearts that marital infidelity is wrong. The level of censure for extra marital affairs varies from the death penalty for women in some countries from Afghanistan to Qatar to French tolerance for ‘cinq a sept’ with a mistress. There are as many reasons for a bit on the side as there are individuals.

Often the motivation for affairs is attributed to sex, the reasons are sometimes far

more complex and are about deep-rooted psychological needs.

They may be about seeking solace from unhappy circumstance, to assuage grief or a search for emotional validation among a great many other reasons. It may be about boredom or a desire to replace the erotic intimacy that has faded in a marriage.

One of the commonest explanations is that individuals stray when their needs – emotional or sexual – are not being met with their spouse.

The unfaithful partner may even justify an affair believing it has enabled them to stay in the marriage, even strengthening it. Or the affair may be acting out on an unconscious wish to end a marriage According to British psychotherapist and author of Affairs Juliet Rosenfeld: “The roots for infidelity may lie years before those involved meet, in parent/ child rela-

tionships which impact on the adult self. However much we consciously try to get over those deficits and losses we suffer, our unconscious has other plans. They lurk

“Most of us believe that marital infidelity is wrong...

around, coming to frustrate us and tempt us with things we know scare us excite us or fill us with forbidden desires.”

All very well to blame childhood experience for temptation but what about our adult conscience? “When an affair begins, the people involved silence part of themselves, the internal voice that stops us from doing dangerous or stupid things disappears. The risks are muted,” believes Rosenfeld.

“Then there is the challenge of being constant in long distance marriage, of being close and intimate with another over decades where love waxes and wanes.

For some people, a lucky few, intimacy over decades comes easily, but for most of us it is a more bittersweet experience. Peaks and troughs, highs and lows, deidealisation and recognition all have their place in longterm love.”

Civic Reception honours Josephine O’Neill’s historic Macra election A Civic Reception was recently held at the request of Cllr. Joe Lyons to honour Bennettsbridge native and Callan Macra Club member, Josephine O’Neill, following her election as National President of Macra. This historic achievement marks her as the 40th President of the organisation and the first woman ever to contest and win a Macra Presidential Election.

Josephine has been a long-standing and dedicated member of Callan Macra, one of the most active clubs among the 170 nationwide. She has served in several leadership roles, including Club Chairperson, Secretary, and County Treasurer. Her election reflects the pride and support of her club and wider community.

At the reception, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Michael McCarthy, commended Josephine as a model young person who has made significant strides in both the social and professional life of rural Ireland. He said it was an honour to host a Civic Reception to celebrate her success.

Cllr. Joe Lyons spoke of her leadership, strong work ethic, and ability to connect with others. He described her as a talented and genuine person, praising her numerous achievements in public speaking, debating, performing arts, dancing, and sport. He said she is a

Moringa – A natural vibrant green food CLAIR WHITTY

credit to her family, her club, and her community.

Cllr. Deirdre Cullen, also from Bennettsbridge, extended warm congratulations and spoke of the pride her success brings to the area. All councillors present shared in expressing their admiration.

Josephine’s election marks a major step forward for women in rural leadership, inspiring many across Ireland.

If you’re looking for a natural energy lift, hormonal support, or a simple way to boost your nutrient intake, Moringa could be just what you’re looking for. This vibrant green powder comes from the leaves of the Moringa oleifera tree, often called the “Miracle Tree” – and for good reason.

Packed with plant-based goodness, Moringa is a natural source of iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium – as well as powerful antioxidants, including vitamin C and quercetin. It contains all

nine essential amino acids, making it a brilliant addition to your diet, if you are on a vegan or vegetarian diets.

One of Moringa’s standout benefits is its anti-inflammatory power, which can help support joint comfort and hormonal balance, especially during perimenopause and menopause. It’s also known for helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, support liver detoxification, and my favourite part, it promotes glowing skin from within.

Many customers tell us they feel a gentle but noticeable lift in energy and focus when using Moringa regularly – without the jittery effects

Hard to beat Shakespeare’s sonnet 116 though: “Let me not to the marriage of true minds admit impediment love is not love which alters when it alteration finds.”

Accurate figures for the frequency of affairs are hard to come by, given they are self-reported, probably more common that the estimated 25% of Irish couples involved. The figure is similar for the UK and in the US 25% of men and 15% of women say they have had one or more affairs.

Common or not, we are endlessly fascinated by affairs in novels, film and real life from Flaubert’s Madam Bovary to Fatal Attraction to tragic Princess Diana. Remember her TV comment about Charles’ affair with Camilla? “There were three of us in this marriage. So it was a bit crowed.”

Hopefully most of us are fascinated in theory but not in fact. of caffeine. It is available in capsules or powder form.

Most customers prefer powder, and we stock, True and Iswari brands of organic Moringa powder, both trusted names that ensure purity and sustainability. They are both ethically sourced and tested for quality, so you can feel confident you’re getting the very best.

Start with ½ teaspoon daily and build up to 1–2 teaspoons as needed. It has a strong flavour that works well in smoothies, juices, or some like it stirred into water with some lemon. You can also mix it into salad dressings, sprinkle it over soups, or add it to energy balls and raw treats. You may not notice the difference on day one, but with regular use you should start to notice the health benefits of Moringa powder.

Moringa has been used for thousands of years to help all sorts of health conditions but this doesn’t mean that it is suitable for you. Especially if you are taking any medication. It could interfere with medication to treat diabetes, blood pressure, blood thinners and thyroid medication.

It is always wise to talk to your health care provider before taking supplements.

Call in for more information, we’re always happy to help you choose the right product for your needs.

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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News

BY MARGARET BARRETT

Not one, but two, different insurance products are required by lenders for mortgage drawdown in Ireland.

But, for some, having to fund mortgage protection too, can be a bit of a shock they didn’t budget for.

One of the first questions we hear from first-time buyers and movers alike, when the various stages of mortgage application and draw-down are outlined to them is: “Do I really need life insurance to get a mortgage loan?”

And the short answer is “Yes, in practically all cases.”

There are some exceptions, and to be fair, the reasoning behind this particular type of life insurance, demanded by mortgage lenders, is quite sensible when you think about it.

Here, we outline what mortgage applicants need to know about mortgage protection insurance, including the fact that, when you’re dealing with a broker, like Mortgage Navigators, finding the most suitable cover, independent of the lender, is straightforward.

What exactly is Mortgage Protection Cover?

Mortgage protection is a type of life insurance, specifically designed to cover the outstanding balance on your mortgage in the event of your death or that of another borrower during the loan term.

It protects your family from being left with significant debt or from losing the home altogether.

Of course, it also protects your lender from the complication of an unpaid mortgage if responsibility for repayments falls to a joint owner or family beneficiaries who cannot afford the debt.

They would still need to continue making mortgage payments or potentially sell the property to settle the outstanding debt.

Unlike traditional life insurance cover, however, the amount insured decreases as the mortgage is paid down.

Therefore, while being a requirement for most home loans in Ireland, mortgage protection is a cost-effective safety net to have in place.

Is it a legal requirement?

Your guide to mortgage holders insurance Yes, under the Consumer Credit Act 1995, all lenders in Ireland are required to ensure that a borrower has mortgage protection before releasing funds.

This applies to residential mortgages, particularly for owner-occupied homes.

There are some exceptions, for example, if; *You’re buying an investment property. *You’re medically uninsurable. *You already have sufficient life cover in place.

In some cases, applicants are unable to secure mortgage protection due to health issues, and lenders often incorporate this into the loan terms.

Although there are some specialist insurers and support available to circumnavigate the problem, a broker can

also help with this. Even if individuals may be exempt, most lenders and brokers still recommend this cover, as it is peace of mind that the family home is secure for loved ones, no matter what happens.

Do I have to use the bank’s insurance?

Absolutely not; and this is where a broker becomes especially valuable.

Lenders often offer borrowers a policy, but they are not required to take it; though some mortgage applicants feel they should, or even that they are obliged to.

In fact, banks’ insurance policies can be more expensive than those available through an independent broker.

So, like any financial service or product, never assume the first quote is the best one.

Comparing options across multiple insurance companies to get the best cover, at the best price, is all part of a brokerage service, where the broker is not tied to any bank or insurer.

Can we get joint cover as a couple?

Yes; and it’s often more costeffective. Most couples go with a dual-life decreasing policy.

Dual Life Insurance also insures two people, but a claim can be paid on both deaths. If one person dies, the policy continues in the name of the survivor.

What if I already have a life policy?

If it meets the lender’s criteria, in terms of the amount and term, and is assigned correctly, some mortgage

holders might not need new life cover, in the form of mortgage protection. Again, a broker will help review any existing cover and assign it to the loan, if suitable.

Mortgage Navigators is part of a wider financial services group, so we often help mortgage applicants, considering their future insurance needs, with cost-effective policies.

For example, those planning a family who want additional protection beyond the mortgage, can work with us to put broader life cover in place, from the outset.

Can I delay getting the insurance?

No. Without valid life cover, lenders won’t release any funds, and the mortgage offered will not complete. Not having mortgage protection will delay, and can altogether

derail, a property purchase.

In fact, the advice would be to start early on securing a good mortgage protection policy, especially if any party has a health condition that might delay approval.

Applications may involve medical questionnaires or GP reports, especially if there is a chronic or serious illness.

And, it is always important to be upfront about your health.

There is usually cover available, even with pre-existing conditions.

But honesty is key, as it is foolhardy to risk having a policy claim denied because of misrepresentation at the outset.

---------------------------------Margaret Barrett is Managing Director of Mortgage Navigators © 2025

Confidential swab self-test at home for Hepatitis C The HSE is expanding its hepatitis C online orderto-home testing service to include a new, rapid oral swab self-test.

This new oral test makes testing for hepatitis C easier, more accessible and stigma free, delivering results in 20 minutes. It complements the existing lab-based self-test, offering people a choice of

how to check for hepatitis C. Both tests are free to order from hse.ie/hepc.

The service is fully confidential, and the test arrives in discreet packaging. Anyone who receives a reactive test result will be supported in accessing free hepatitis C confirmation testing and treatment services, ensuring timely and effective care.

Hepatitis C is a virus that affects the liver and, if left untreated, can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions over time. The virus is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact.

Those most at risk include: ¶ People who use or have used drugs. ¶ Current or former prisoners.

¶ People experiencing homelessness. ¶ People born in countries where hepatitis C is more common.

Professor Aiden McCormick, Clinical Lead for the HSE National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme, says: “It’s never been easier to find out if you have hepatitis C. This new self-test is a pain-

less, blood-free oral swab. We urge anyone who could be living with hepatitis C to get checked.

“To date the National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme has treated more than 7,000 people with a 95% cure rate, and is on track to meet the elimination targets set out by the WHO .”

Maria O’Brien, HSE Hepa-

titis C Programme Lead explained that the current lab based hepatitis C test has also been expanded to offer optional hepatitis B and HIV testing with the aim to identify and treat more people living with HIV and hepatitis. * The confidential hepatitis C test is free to order online from www.hse.ie/hepc.

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Trump tariff deal exposes EU’s fatal flaws In a dramatic meeting at Donald Trump’s Turnberry golf resort, the European Union has agreed a trade deal with the United States, the biggest deal ever struck, according to Trump. It feels, according to most commentators, less like a victory and more like a reluctant surrender by the EU. The agreement set in place 15% tariffs on most EU imports to the US. Yes, it avoids the catastrophe of Trump’s threatened 30% levies or worse, but this is “no triumph of negotiation”.

It illustrates how the EU, the world’s largest trading bloc, folded under pressure. The bloc’s agreement has left it paying a steep price. Is it not time for Europe to rethink its approach to economic bullies?

The details of the deal reveal its one-sidedness. While tariffs on aircraft, certain chemicals, and some agrifood goods are waived, the 15% hits cars, down from 25%

but still a hit. Pharmaceuticals are at the same rate, protecting it from Trump’s earlier 200% threats for the moment.

And the EU has committed to buying fixed amounts of

US oil, nuclear power, and gas, $750bn over a three-year period, thereby subsidising American energy.

For Ireland, with its huge pharma exports, it is a mixed

blessing. According to experts there is relief from escalation of tariffs but pressure on further growth. The Government needs to immediately review the upcoming Budget

in the light of this agreement.

Global markets remained stable with S&P futures up 0.4% and the euro currency firmed up. But the outcome of the talks exposes the EU’s fatal flaws.

From April’s ‘liberation day’ tariffs that sparked market turmoil, Brussels chose restraint over retaliation. Unlike China or Canada, which hit back hard, the EU suspended countermeasures hoping for a zero-tariff pact.

This ‘strategic patience’, urged by figures like Sabine Weyand, Director General for Trade, crumbled against Trump’s aggression. Internal divisions; Germany pushing for car offsets, Ireland protecting pharma, France calling for “more muscle,” hamstrung unity. Even the €93 billion retaliation package came too late and was watered down.

Critics are right, “the EU played by Queensberry rules in a street fight”. As a former official noted, if the EU had aligned with China’s April

retaliation it probably would have forced Trump’s hand amid a disrupted market.

Instead, von der Leyen’s caution, mindful of NATO dependencies and Ukraine aid, prioritised broader ties over trade leverage.

This capitulation sets a dangerous precedent. If the EU can’t stand firm against an ally, how will it fare against adversaries? The bloc must harness tools like the AntiCoercion Instrument (ACI) earlier, adopt a member State consensus and react quickly to deter future threats.

Stability is welcome, but at what cost? Europe’s economic independence demands bolder diplomacy, or it risks being “rolled over by the Trump juggernaut” again.

As one diplomat lamented, those who don’t hang together get hanged separately.

It’s a wake-up call - time to toughen up Europe. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

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News Science & Wellbeing Today, the Universe has evolved into the complex, life-friendly place we know it to be because we were able to form neutral atoms early on in the Universe.

Yet, without just the right quantum properties and a consistent set of laws and rules to follow, the formation of stable, neutral atoms would have been delayed significantly, or might not have even occurred at all.

There are countless facts about the Universe that, taken either in isolation or all together, provide remarkable insights into nature, science, and reality itself.

However, there’s something even more profound that is essential to any fact, law, rule, or other phenomenon about existence: the fact that reality obeys rules that apply throughout all of space and at all times.

If this weren’t the case, it would be difficult to make sense, or even basic predictions, about any behaviour or phenomenon in existence at all.

Out there in the Universe, there are plenty of amazing things waiting to be discovered. At every level of reality, there’s a great set of mysteries, puzzles, and facts just waiting for us to uncover them, find them out, and look to put them together in an increasingly accurate, precise, and powerful picture of what reality actually is.

In space, we can look to greater distances, earlier times, longer-or-shorter wavelengths of light, or even beyond the concept of light itself to reveal nature’s grandest secrets. Here on Earth, we can examine any material system we like — in any state of matter, living or nonliving, at any scale we dare to probe — and reveal its inner workings, all the way down to the limits of our capabilities to probe sub-atomic scales.

And yet, there’s one simple fact about the Universe that

The Miracle of Life Only for the unchanging laws of the Universe, all would be chaos

goes deeper than the profundity of any individual aspect of reality that we might seek to elevate: the fact that the Universe itself even can be understood. It’s only because: nature itself obeys laws, those laws are universal, applying equally at all times and across all

places, and those laws do not change or evolve, even if the conditions under which they operate do change, that the very process of science for investigating reality gives us sensible answers.

If this fact weren’t true, then everything we understand, as well as everything

we can make predictions for and concoct after-the-fact explanations for, would be chaos.

This, itself, is the most profound fact about existence, and what enables science to be possible at all.

Here’s how.

Although human beings are

made of cells, at a more fundamental level, we’re made of atoms.

All told, there are close to ~10^28 atoms in a human body, mostly hydrogen by number but mostly oxygen and carbon by mass.

Think about whatever your favourite scientific fact is

about the Universe: something that we’ve learned because we’ve observed, measured, or experimented on some aspect of reality.

It could be something: physical, like the fact that our bodies, and everything around us, is composed of atoms; astrophysical, like the fact that the complex atoms that compose us were forged in ancient, exploded stars whose remnant material was incorporated into the primeval nebula that formed our Solar System; chemical, like the fact that it’s the breaking and reforging of bonds between atoms that power all organic and inorganic processes on Earth; biological, like the fact that the nucleic acids in our cells encode what types of proteins, enzymes, and structures a cell will produce; geological, like the facts of how rocks, minerals, or the interiors of planets are formed; or climatological, like the fact that our planet is 59 °F (33 °C) warmer than its equilibrium temperature would have been had we lacked an atmosphere, to name just a few examples.

Each one of these facts was uncovered by humans who were observing facts about some aspect of the Universe, collecting and synthesising data from a wide array of sources, investigating a few isolated aspects of reality and how those aspects related to one another, and involved a fusion of both the underlying theories of how the Universe worked with either experimental or observational data gathered while interrogating nature’s workings.

We found these facts out about reality, quite simply, by taking what we already knew and established as our foundations and then putting the key question to the Universe itself.

The fact that Life is, that we are, is a miracle, a miracle made possible by those (discussed) unchanging laws of the Universe.

Research shows grapes now one of the superfoods Fresh grapes may be overlooked nutritional powerhouses that are deserving of “superfood” status.

This is the argument laid out by biochemist Professor John Pezzuto who explains how eating grapes can bring health benefits.

While the term ‘superfood’ lacks a formal definition or established criteria, Pezzuto notes that such typically refers to foods that are rich in beneficial plant compounds, like those commonly found in the Mediterranean diet.

Mainstream superfoods include berries, leafy greens, nuts, olive oil and legumes, among others.

Grapes are a natural source of more than 1,600 compounds — including

antioxidants and other polyphenols such as iavonoids, anthocyanidins,

catechins, phenolic acids, resveratrol.

Polyphenols are primar-

ily credited with the health benefits of grapes thanks to their antioxidant activity

and effect on cellular processes.

According to Pezzuto, more than 60 peer-reviewed studies have linked grape consumption with positive outcomes across the body, from boosting cardiovascular and the brain to helping out the skin, gut and more.

Grapes have been proven to promote the relaxation of blood vessels as well as healthy circulation, as well as modulating cholesterol levels.

They also enhance UV resistance, reduce DNA damage in skin cells, and increase gut microbiome diversity. Moreover, grape consumption has been shown to positively alter gene expression.

One study published in the journal Food Production, Processing And Nutrition has even associated grape consumption with a decreased risk of chronic diseases, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

Packed with Vitamins C and K, as well as potassium, these fruit can also help protect the immune system — and thanks to their water content they can be a great way to keep hydrated.

Dr Pezzuto shows that based on the science, grapes are indeed a superfood, and should be recognised as such, and we are hopeful that using this nomenclature in association with grapes becomes common practice.

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Travel & Leisure sit together and a very long connection time that will eat into your holiday spending money. And that low-cost hotel might charge extra for the basics, be in a poor location and just not be up to your usual standards. If it’s too good to be true, then it probably is.

Instead, weigh cost against flexibility, quality, and support. Ask: “What happens if something changes? Is there someone I can call?” Cheap is one thing, but at what cost?

BY MARTINA HAYDEN

After three decades in travel, one thing I know for sure is this: even the best-laid plans can change in an instant, and that’s when support matters.

I’m a local Travel Counsellor based here in Kilkenny and part of Travel Counsellors Ireland, a nationwide network of more than 85 independent travel professionals, all working full-time in the industry and true experts.

My clients range from first-time holidaymakers to businesses managing complex, multi-destination itineraries. And what unites them more than ever is a growing desire for flexibility, reassurance, and a real human connection when it comes to booking a trip.

The reality is, travel has changed. From last-minute airline disruptions to evolving weather patterns and destination-specific requirements, we’ve seen just how important it is to stay informed and supported.

But while there’s no way to guarantee smooth sailing, there are plenty of ways to be a smarter, more confident traveller.

Here are some practical ways to protect your plans — and your peace of mind — this year.

1. Think Long-Haul For Better Value It might surprise you, but long-haul trips are becoming increasingly popular among Irish travellers (not just for honeymoons or retirement getaways). Destinations like South Africa, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, the UAE and Thailand are topping the list for winter 2025/26, offering not only guaranteed sunshine but real value for money.

Whether it’s a safari-beach combo, a city break in Dubai, or an all-inclusive escape in Mexico, many clients are discovering that the cost of a bucket-list winter trip can be equal to — or even less than — a short-haul week in Europe during peak season. That’s a big shift in how we’re thinking about holidays.

5. Know Who to Call When things go wrong, time matters. Whether it’s a sudden storm, air traffic control issue, or illness mid-holiday, I’ve seen how valuable it is to have someone on hand who can act quickly, rearrange plans and keep things calm.

For corporate travellers, we use myTC Locate — a platform that offers real-time risk alerts, travel tracking, and entry requirement updates. It’s just one way that travel is evolving to put more control into the hands of travellers.

Smart travel tips for a changing world 2. Build In Flexibility Travel is unpredictable.

Give yourself breathing room. When booking flights, accommodation or transfers, look for flexible fare options with clear change or cancellation terms. Many airlines and hotels now offer no-change-fee policies or flexible rebooking windows, but the small print matters.

This is especially true if you’re planning something special — like a milestone

birthday or a family reunion — where the cost of changes could hit harder. Having someone to guide you through these options can save you both stress and money in the long run.

3. Protect Your Trip With The Right Insurance It might sound obvious, but travel insurance is often left as an afterthought or skipped entirely. I can’t stress this enough: a comprehensive

6. Travel For A Reason One of the most uplifting trends we’ve seen recently is a rise in trips with purpose.

Think milestone birthdays, ‘big birthdays’, retirements, or three generations travelling together for the first time.

If that’s something you’ve been dreaming about, my advice is: start planning early. These trips take a bit more coordination, and the most sought-after resorts and experiences can book up 6–12 months in advance.

policy is one of the most important investments you’ll make for any trip.

Beyond basic cover for medical emergencies, good insurance should also protect you against cancellation due to illness, lost or delayed luggage, and even missed connections.

If you’re travelling with children, older family members, or to more adventurous destinations, it’s essential that your policy reflects those needs. It’s also

important to take out the insurance the day you book your holiday, otherwise you may not be covered for cancellation.

4. Don’t Just Chase The Cheapest Price Of course, everyone wants value, but the lowest price doesn’t always offer the best experience. That cheap fare might come with extra baggage charges, not allowing you to book seats to

7. Ask For Help Finally, don’t underestimate the value of having someone in your corner. Travel professionals today are more than just booking assistants – we’re advocates, planners, problem-solvers and supporters. Whether it’s a special family trip to Spain or a corporate roadshow across three countries, our role is to make it simpler, safer, and less stressful. * Martina Hayden is a Travel Counsellor based in Kilkenny with more than 30 years’ experience. For more, visit travelcounsellors.ie/ martina.hayden

How Turkish ban on eSIMs affects travellers

By Harry Deacon --------------------------------The Turkish Information and Communication Technologies Authority (BTK) – Turkey’s telecom regulator – has reportedly blocked access to Holafly and at least seven other international eSIM providers.

The move prevents access in Turkey to the websites and apps of the affected eSIM companies.

Turkish residents are not able to purchase international eSIMs from the affected providers until they are out of the country.

The eight main international eSIM providers affected by the block include: Holafly, Airalo, Saily, Nomad, Instabridge, Mobimatter, Alosim, and BNESIM. This said, sources claimed that other well-known eSIM services have also been affected, including: Holiday

eSIM, FlexiRoam, Airhub, GlobaleSIM and Roamless.

The eSIM ban in Türkiye makes it impossible to access certain websites while using a Turkish mobile network. Therefore, customers in Turkey cannot buy a travel eSIM from the affected providers while they are inside Turkey.

One way around this is by using a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN creates a connection between your device and

a remote server. As this server can be located internationally, your connection can sidestep Turkish networks to access the blocked eSIM websites.

As a tourist traveling to Turkey, your eSIM service should not be affected.

However, there are several steps to consider if you plan on using an international eSIM in Turkey Buy your eSIM before departure: Your chosen eSIM’s online store will not

work once you land. Install your eSIM before arrival: Use your QR or manual installation code to set up your eSIM before you travel.

You can delay activation by keeping data roaming ‘off’ until you land.

Save your QR code or eSIM installation code locally: This way, you can install your eSIM in Turkey without needing the provider’s website or app.

Download a secure VPN: Without a VPN, you will

not be able to manage your eSIM solution digitally, check for remaining data usage, or contact customer service.

It is important to note that the situation is changing, and the eSIM ban in Turkey may affect different users’ connections in different ways.

Happy holiday ..

Harry Deacon is Content Manager at Holafly

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Bob and I, begging on streets of Kilkenny!

Yes, I have to confess to begging on the streets of Kilkenny, along with my best friend, and cousin, Bobby.

And I blame the Black Abbey, celebrating its 800th anniversary this year. There were ever only sixteen altar boys in the Abbey and we were a happy bunch. The only downside was that marriages and funerals were not celebrated there – the offshoot being that, unlike altar boys in the four parish churches, no monetary remuneration came our way.

That said, come Christmas we were treated to a party in Heslin and Maher’s (a grocery-come-public housecome-undertakers, now The Pumphouse) just down the road. In a café to the back we enjoyed lemonade, icecream, assorted confectionary – and a half-a-crown each. A small fortune as far as we were concerned.

One Christmas, however,

the half-crown, for reasons unknown, never arrived.

Not sure about our fellow ‘servers’ but Bobby and myself were devastated, shocked. We had big plans for that money – go to the pictures in the Savoy Cinema across the road and later get some whipped ice-cream cones and chips in Hickman’s nearby. A mighty treat.

Despondent and downhearted we resorted to Plan B (even though we didn’t have a Plan B). We stood outside the Savoy – and begged! Okay, begged might be a slight exaggeration – we stood outside the Savoy looking lost and forlorn waiting for people we knew to come along and regale them with our tale of woe, hoping for some handout towards our plight.

Did we succeed? I honestly don’t know – it was, after all, some 60 years plus, or so, ago. What I do know is that

our mothers, God rest them, would have been mortified had they’d known what their darling sons had got up to. As for Bobby and myself – we’re still mortified by our act of desperation.

That said, I have the fondest of memories of the Black Abbey: serving six o’clock Mass on frosty Christmas mornings, serving Benediction (if anyone remembers) the evening summer rays streaming through the magnificent Rosary window, the wonderful Fr Andrew Kane who made footballers of us and brought us on a marvellous holiday to Knockadoon Camp in Co. Cork – an adventure never to be forgotten.

Meanwhile on this the 800th anniversary of the Black Abbey here is a brief history of the church: The Black Abbey, whose official title is Abbey of the Most Holy Trinity, was 267-years-old when Christo-

pher Columbus discovered America. Founded in 1225 AD by William Marshall, the younger, Earl of Pembroke. the Black Abbey gets its name

“Dived into the angry waters to rescue the host from the tabernacle . .

from the black cape that the Dominicans wore over their white habits and it is the only Dominican foundation in Ireland to have survived on its original site.

In 1543, during the Reformation, King Henry VIII confiscated the Black Abbey. The community was dispersed and the church was turned into a courthouse. Sixty years later the people of Kilkenny seized it and returned it to the Dominicans.

In 1650 the abbey was sacked by Cromwell’s forces to such an extent that only the tower and parts of the walls remained standing.

The Abbey was reopened for public worship in 1816 and was completely restored in 1979.

The great window, known as The Rosary Window as it depicts the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious mysteries of the Rosary, is said to be the finest in Ireland.

Some years back the Black Abbey was particularly susceptible to flooding from the nearby River Breagagh, whose name translates as ‘False’ from the Irish; aptly named as in summer it practically vanished underground while in winter it occasionally wreaked havoc on the residents of Irishtown and the community of Black Abbey. During the great flood of 1947 as the waters rose to the level of the main altar, Dr Gaffney, known always as Doc, a gentle intellectual, dived into the angry waters to rescue the host in the tabernacle.

Across from the Black Abbey is the last remaining gate of the medieval wall that once surrounded and protected Kilkenny: Black Freren Gate, named after the blackcaped friars of the Abbey. The Black Abbey is still home to the Dominican order and is very much in use to this day.

St. Kieran’s College – 2025 Leinster first year hurling champions Like father, like son — a strong start towards All-Ireland medal success

L-R Michael Kavanagh with son Jamie, Derek Lyng with son Jack and Eddie Brennan with son Harry

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News

‘The Changing of the Guard’ Woodcraft items on display at the recent College of FET Kilkenny VTOS Exhibition

Woodcraft items on display at McDonagh Junction Kilkenny

Pictured at the College of FET Woodcarving exhibition isMartha Bolger Director of FET KCETB, Bernadette O’Rourke (AEO KCETB), Peter O’Carroll class teacher, Geraldine Moran (VTOS co-ordinator) andPauline Egan (Acting chief

It was a brilliant morning for the College of FET (V.T.O.S Nuncio Road campus). The QQI Level 5 Woodwork and Design class launched their exhibition, ‘The Changing of the Guard’. The beautiful workhouse square courtyard of the McDonagh Junction

shopping centre was the venue, and indeed it was a spectacular scene. It was the culmination of a year of hard work, passion and dedication that produced some wonderful enigmatic pieces.

MC for the occasion was the V.T.O.S. Coordinator, Geral-

dine Moran. She congratulated all the participants on a thought-provoking display of talent, ingenuity, and artistry.

Class teacher Peter O'Carroll spoke about the incredible journey undertaken by the woodcarvers since last September, as they have skill-

fully transformed wood into wonderful pieces of art, each piece being a testament to the creativity and dedication of its creator. Geraldine thanked Peter for his guidance, patience and expertise. She said he had been both a teacher and a mentor to all of the participants and had instilled his love of wood carving in all of them.

Martha Bolger, FET Director, congratulated all of the participants and spoke of her immense pride in the work of the centre, noting that the exhibition was a fine tribute to all involved. She said it was an exciting and momentous morning for all the participants and that many had found hidden talents that had been brought to fruition.

Acting Chief Executive Dr. Pauline Egan officially

opened the exhibition and praised the awe-inspiring work on display. She thanked all of the participants and said their display was excellent and gave everyone food for thought.

Geraldine Moran, V.T.O.S. Coordinator, thanked everybody who attended the launch, including special guests Dr. Pauline Egan (Acting Chief Executive), Martha Bulger, Director of FET KCETB and Bernadette O'Rourke, AEO KCETB. Geraldine thanked Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board for supporting the V.T.O.S. Programme and wished the participants much success in their future endeavours.

The College of FET (Nuncio Road Campus) can be contacted at info@CFET.ie

Woodcraft item on display

Woodcraft item on display

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Opinion

Mind and body in harmony

By Paul Bolger

Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny | www.nanophysio.ie Political decisions affect the health of each and every one of us. Sometimes this link is straightforward and obvious – decisions about healthcare budgets, hospital beds and medication funding. But more often the link between politics and health is less obvious.

I’ll briefly touch on three different areas where political decision has a real and significant impact on the health of our communities.

Transport and Health Decisions about transport priorities, planning and projects directly impact health here on this island.

Better public transport, safe and accessible cycling infrastructure, and pedestrian-friendly town centres accessible to all are proven ways to increase physical activity levels – directly improving health.

Lower air pollution, calmer public spaces and reduced traffic incidents come as serendipitous side effects.

Added to this, fair and quality access to public transport may allow people to engage more in their

Politics is healthcare

Health is influenced by the shape of the society in which we live community and save on car costs – improving health, wellbeing and reducing financial strain.

Fairer Food Policy We go to the doctor assuming we are going to be given fair, unbiased health

advice. When we drink the water coming from our taps, we know there are laws and infrastructure in place to

ensure it is safe. When we do our weekly grocery shop, should we perhaps hold the providers and suppliers of this food to a higher standard – should we expect them to consider health as a higher priority?

The food market is one of the largest industries in the world, with rising financialisation in the form of pension funds, private equity and asset management companies investing larger sums and expecting greater financial returns. In other words, the food industry is becoming increasingly about making a profit.

Maybe we should hold the people who profit from an essential need like food to a higher standard when it comes to how some products are advertised and placed in supermarkets. Can we shift the goalposts? Balance incentives away from profit and towards a more socially beneficial outcome – perhaps that would have deep and wide effects on the health and well-being of this small island of ours.

Economic Equality Health and pain are associated with a person’s status in the society in which they live. Expert researchers point towards multi-layered reasons for this. While many of us are quick to point towards the individual as somehow deserving an unfortunate health condition (known as the ‘just-world fallacy’), researchers shine a light on many cultural, structural and interpersonal injustices that underlie pain and health conditions.

Political decisions, laws, cultural beliefs and economic forces all play a role in this. As such, they are all relevant when it comes to health and healthcare in our country.

I’m a physiotherapist, so I don’t have the answers to how we proceed here, but I do have faith that a more fair, equitable society is possible.

After all, it all comes down to decisions that people make – decisions that result in a more just, equal, thriving society are absolutely possible. Our health depends on it.

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Arts

Kilkenny Writers Anonymous take to soap box Soap Box City 2025 is a literary event designed for writers to share their original work in an open mic’ format during the Kilkenny Arts Festival. Kilkenny Writers Anonymous, with funding and support from the Arts Office, invites writers of all genres and at all stages of their careers to join them in reading original works on the theme of ‘Opening Lines’.

Professional writers, emerg-

ing writers, and aspiring writers are all welcome to perform—or simply come and listen. Poetry, short stories, and excerpts are all encouraged.

Each participant will have a maximum of 5 minutes to read. The event is free of charge and takes place on Saturday, 9th August at 2pm at Rothe House, Kilkenny.

Registration is from 1:30 pm

to 2pm.

Kilkenny Writers Anonymous is a supportive group that has been meeting for the past three years to help one another develop their writing skills. They now wish to share that sense of support and community with other Kilkenny writers in a celebratory and inclusive manner. To find out more, follow their socials on Facebook and Instagram.

Local theatre group KATS are delighted to present the Irish premiere of Scar Tissue to the stage From the psyche of American playwright Gabriel Rivas Gomez, this one-act takes us on a journey into the mind of renowned cardiovascular surgeon, Claudia Torres.

Claudia is dealing with the loss of her daughter, Alma, a US soldier who lost her life while serving in Afghanistan.

We meet Claudia when US soldier Lee Gardner comes to her for help. The two clash straight away, with Claudia not understanding the appeal of becoming a soldier and Lee not understanding why Claudia is stuck-up and cold. We follow them on this roller coaster journey through anger and pride, shock and denial, and ultimately understanding and acceptance.

Playwright Gabriel Rivas Gomez, is an American author who graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master of Fine Arts in dramatic writing. His work has been called “everything from surreal to abstract to unstageable”. Scar Tissue was also published in The Best American Short Plays of 2010-2011.

Gabriel Rivas Gomez

Edwina Cummins

Claudia is portrayed by Edwina Cummins, Alma is portrayed by Megan Kelly and Lee is portrayed

by Hugh Keenan.They are joined by Sarah Bergin on Lighting and Sound and Sophie Galvin as Stage Man-

ager, with Edwina Cummins also directing. This group of thespians have many years of theatre experience between them. They have tread the boards with local groups such as KMS, Mórsceal, Watergate Productions, and Asylum Productions, as well as groups in Carlow, Waterford and further afield.

KATS are grateful to be supported on this journey

by Behaviour Detectives, Specsavers Kilkenny and The Club House Hotel. They are also thankful to other local businesses that are supporting with advert content and raffle prizes.

This wonderful one-act

Hugh Keenan

Megan Kelly

Sarah Bergin

Sophie Galvin

will be coming to life in the Thomastown Community Hall, from August 7th-9th, in conjunction with the

AKA Fringe Festival. Tickets are available online at www.gr8events.ie/katsscartissue

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Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 129

"We all need sun and rain "

Kilkenny people from Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group

Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group is calling on people across Kilkenny to join in a community March for Palestine this Saturday 2nd August. The march will start next to the Castle Gates at 1pm and finish at the Parade.

A spokesperson for the group said “People are telling us on the streets that they want to take action against the genocide, as they have not seen anything like this in their lives and it is just not acceptable.”

People are outraged at the sight of emaciated babies and children dying in Gaza. There is no baby formula left in Gaza and women are too starved to breast feed. All regular aid has been stopped by the IDF, with a small amount of food being used to bait hungry people

- only to shoot at them when they go collect it.

Even though there are reports of a ‘temporary ceasefire’, people are still being killed every day in bombing raids. It’s become clear to everyone that the Israeli government is carrying out a genocide of this trapped population.

Last week the KCPS Group held a packed public meeting on the Occupied Territories Bill at the Club House hotel – Senator Frances Black, Councillor Seán Ó hArgáin and Senator Patricia Stephenson spoke, and emphasised the urgent need for effective action to make Israel accountable for its actions and encouraged voters to put pressure on Government to act now.

The Kilkenny Community march is aimed at showing our politicians that the public wants meaningful, practical steps including enacting Occupied Territories law to boycott goods and services from stolen, occupied land, without delay.

Palestine will be a theme of the weekend coming - on Sunday 3rd August at the Set Theatre, from 5pm – 1am there will be a ‘Gig for Gaza’ supported by KCPSG which will be featuring music from trad to techno, with local and international artists - all funds raised going to UNWRA Gaza emergency fund (free entry for children).

To join the march, meet up beside the Castle entrance at 1pm on Saturday.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Opinion

Healing hands Part one

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Medicare is different today from what it was in the 19th century, but our local doctors have served us well in good times and bad, easing us along life’s journey, from our first glimpse of this world right up to our departure to a (hopefully) better one.

Here’s a brief look at some of the doctors whose advice and healing helped to make life bearable for the people in Callan and District over the past century and a half.

I wish to thank and acknowledge the late Margaret Phelan of Kilkenny Archaeological Society, who gave an enlightening talk on this subject and undertook extensive research into the doctors of the district.

Thanks also to Jimmy Walsh of Mill Street, with his phenomenal memory of childhood days in Callan, to historian Philip Lynch, to the late community activist Sean Holden, who provided me with further details about historical GPs, and to the immortal Humphrey O’ Sullivan, whose diaries continue to be a rich source of information about Callan in the 19th century.

One of the first medics we find mentioned in the annals of the district is Dr. Thomas Butler. He lived on the site of the former Geoghegan’s Castle in West Street (scene of the battle during Cromwell’s infamous attack on Callan) with his wife, a Miss Heron of Castleview. He allowed the medical students he trained to take up residence at his home.

Three of his children who died young: Elizia, Thomas, and Theobald; are buried in the old St. Mary’s Churchyard.

His daughter, Anne, is buried in the same Churchyard. She died in 1900 at age 75. A second daughter married a local merchant, Mr. Cooke.

Little is known about Dr. Butler’s life apart from references to him in Humphrey O’ Sullivan’s diary. In an entry for September 1827, the great Gaelic scholar described a less than edifying scene in Callaghan’s Hotel.

Two of Butler’s students decided to “get sloshed” in the hotel. Humphrey, who was having a drink when they arrived, joined Tom O’ Looney and John Forristal, for a bit of a session.

After downing a fair few pints of ale and glasses of whiskey, they started singing ballads and attracting a lot of attention.

Someone notified Dr. Butler of his students’ behaviour and he came charging into the hotel with a blackthorn stick. He gave Humphrey two black eyes and lashed out with tremendous energy at his trainees.

It wasn’t the kind of medicine they expected from their instructor. He appeared to have temporarily forgotten the Hippocratic Oath… not to do harm to his fellow human beings!

He beat the young fellows back to the house in West Street as Humphrey staggered from the hotel, nursing his wounds and cursing “Mad Butler”, as he called him.

Commenting on this incident, Margaret Phelan of KAS said, “We have sympathy with the doctor, who had the

care and responsibility of the students on his shoulders.”

Though the doctor’s burial place is unknown, there’s a belief that his blackthorn stick may be in private ownership in Callan!

Like Dr. Butler, Dr Abraham Cronyn was appointed under the Board of Health Act (1818). A non-Catholic, he lived in a house on Flaggy Lane. From the day he commenced his service in Callan, he exhibited an uncanny knack for alienating both patients and other residents of the area.

He routinely subjected his patients to a “jolly good old tongue wagging” (his words) and a ferocious dressing down if they turned up at his practice on his day off or even

a minute or two on the wrong side of his starting or finishing hours.

Passers-by on the streets of Callan had to doff their caps or hats to him, and ladies had to curtsy out of respect for their high-minded medic.

He thrashed male patients on the streets, and indeed in his clinic, with his blackthorn stick for failing to remove their caps!

It was said that Callan people were “afraid to be sick” for fear of the reception that might greet them at Dr. Cronyn’s. A favourite retort of his to anyone who expressed a fear that he or she might be “on the way out” was “sure the divil a loss you’d be!”

Like his predecessor, Dr. Butler, Dr. Cronyn managed to

draw the wrath of Humphrey O’ Sullivan. In 1828, the diarist became involved in a lawsuit against the doctor, though he omits to mention the nature of the litigation in his diary, apart from remarking that it was time-consuming and that Dr. Cronyn was, in his view, a most disagreeable fellow.

Dr. Cronyn’s burial place is unknown, though believed to be in Kells.

Having taken a dislike to doctors Butler and Cronyn, Humphrey O’ Sullivan was relieved to find a medic who was on his own wavelength and moved in the same circles.

Dr. Keating was born in Callan and graduated from Edinburgh University before setting up a practice in his native town in 1825. He took up the post of Dispensary Doctor in the 1850s.

At his home in Mill Lane, he entertained all the local pillars of society, foremost among them the Kerry schoolmaster who lavished praise on him in his diary. Two of Dr. Keating’s children, Marian and Michael, enrolled at Humphrey’s school in 1830.

Humphrey recalls with great eloquence his “fact finding” journey with the doctor to the Derrymore querns, to see the women and children grinding corn, work deemed unsuitable for men. They inspected all the gravestones in Kilbride cemetery, the oldest they found dating to 1725.

Humphrey describes in mouth-watering detail the luscious meals he and the doctor enjoyed on their visits to every corner of the land.

One diary entry refers to an excursion to Kells and Ballylinch Bridge. They explored

“the lovely valley of the Nore” and passed mud cabins and half-starving wretches en route to Thomastown where they sat down to a five course meal “with punch” at Ryan the Tanner’s, after which they called to the parish priest, Fr. Cody, to admire a collection of oil paintings and water colours.

After a “hard day” of further feasting, drinking, and highlevel intellectual discourse in the PP’s house, he showed them to “fine feather beds” to sleep in, as it was too late to return home.

But the doctor was no by means a snobbish or aloof figure; throwing up barriers between his patients and himself. He was as much a friend to his patients as the man who eased their suffering and kept them in good health.

Humphrey and the doctor whiled away many an evening in Callan watching hurling matches at Ceanafahey, or gazing in wonder at its abundance of wildlife. They loved listening to the quails.

And they enjoyed taking a stroll across McCormack’s land in Coolagh, renowned at the time for its magnificent setting in an idyllic stretch of countryside.

Another passion of Dr. Keating, which he shared with Humphrey and the local PP, was collecting sphagnum moss, which he used for horticultural purposes. They found no shortage of it at Mockler’s in Poulacapple, the diary reveals.

Dr. Keating’s daughter, Marian, married a Mason, who lived at Collaire, later to become the residence of the Walsh family.

To be continued…

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Global Report Former ally of Donal Trump and now ‘sworn enemy’ Elon Musk has warned of difficult times ahead for Tesla following one of the carmaker’s worst stretches since it first started producing electric vehicles over a dozen years ago.

Tesla will be in a transition period for the next year or more, losing electric vehicle incentives in the US and needing time to roll out autonomous vehicles, the chief executive officer said.

“We probably could have a few rough quarters,” Musk said.

“But once you get to autonomy at scale in the second half of next year, certainly by the end of next year, I would be surprised if Tesla’s economics are not very compelling.”

Tesla shares fell as Musk spoke after the close of US trading. The move carried over into yesterday, with the stock dropping as much as 9.5% shortly after the open.

The comments were his starkest yet on the fallout for Tesla from the tax bill Donald Trump signed this month. In addition to phasing out $7,500 (€6,350) tax credits for EV purchases, the law gutted federal fuel-economy standards that have generated significant revenue for Tesla over the years.

The Tesla CEO called the bill a “disgusting abomination” which solidified his break from Mr Trump days after he left a prominent role in the president’s administration.

Tesla has reported adjusted earnings of 40 cents a share, missing Wall Street’s already lowered estimates. Revenue fell 12% to $22.5bn, the steepest decline since 2012. Vehicle deliveries slumped and the average selling price of Tesla cars dropped.

The results were “noisy”, with clear challenges in the near term and no formal guidance beyond that, Truist Securities analyst William Stein said in a note.

“The company offered remarkably little detail on some of the most important factors,” including a lower-priced

Tesla no longer a bright spark Brand increasingly polarising following the CEO’s onceemphatic support of Trump

model and humanoid robot, Mr Stein said. That makes “our outlook lean more on imagination than realistic targets”.

Tesla also reported falling sales at its energy generation and storage business, and said costs from tariffs increased around $300m.

The impact of the levies is expected to grow in the coming quarters.

The company’s car business is struggling in the face of rising

“The Tesla CEO called Trump’s Bill a ‘disgusting abomination’

competition and continued fallout from Mr Musk’s political activities. Investors have largely been willing to look past sales declines and toward the CEO’s promises related to artificial intelligence, robots and self-driving technology. This quarter, however, Musk put more emphasis on the amount of turbulence standing in the way of Tesla starting to see payoff from these investments.

“There are some teething pains as you transition from a pre-autonomy to a post-autonomy world,” he said.

On the conference call, executives spent relatively little time discussing the EV business, instead talking about plans to expand Tesla’s recently launched Robotaxi service, a new diner opened in Los Ange-

les, and whether the company may invest in xAI, Musk’s AI start-up.

The CEO also reiterated his desire for greater control of Tesla, suggesting his ownership stake should be higher to guard against any activist investor attempt to oust him. His multibillion-dollar Tesla payout was gutted by a Delaware judge last year, leading the company to appeal and move its incorporation to Texas.

“I think my control over Tesla should be enough to ensure that it goes in a good direction, but not so much control that I can’t be thrown out if I go crazy,” Mr Musk said.

Tesla’s brand has become increasingly polarising following Musk’s once-emphatic support of Trump.

Children, be good now or we’ll eat you up Human ancestors ate small children 850,000 years ago, a gruesome discovery has shown. Archaeologists working at the Gran Dolina cave site in Burgos, northern Spain, found a human neck bone belonging to a child aged between two and four, with clear butchery marks.

The vertebra was found with other bones and teeth belonging to Homo antecessor, considered to be the last common ancestor of both Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, ­ and who lived between 1.2 million and 800,000 years ago.

Although cannibalism is well documented in early humans, experts say it is unusual to find a child being eaten, and it marks the earliest evidence of the practice found to date.

The site of the marks on the

neck bone suggests the youth was decapitated.

“This case is particularly striking, not only because of the child’s age, but also due

to the precision of the cut marks,” said Dr Palmira Saladi, the co-director of the Gran Dolina excavation of the Catalan Institute of Human Paleo-

ecology and Social Evolution.

“The vertebra presents clear incisions at key anatomical points for disarticulating the head.

“It is direct evidence that the child was processed like any other prey.”

Other adult bones belonging to Homo antecessor found at the site show evidence of defleshing marks and intentional fractures, similar to those found on animal bones consumed by humans.

Experts say it suggests “early humans exploited their peers as a food resource” and may also have used cannibalism as a method of controlling territory.

Homo antecessor is the earliest human to move into Europe and was given the species name antecessor as it means “pioneer” or “early settler” in Latin.

It was of stockier build than modern humans, with males ranging in height from 5.2ft to 5.9ft, but had some m ­ odern

facial features, such as a hollowed cheekbones and a projecting nose.

The earliest evidence of human cannibalism dates back 1.45 million years ago.

Some archaeologists suggest that before formal burials, human populations would eat the dead as a funerary ritual.

At Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge, Somerset, human skulls were found that appeared to have been used as cups, dating from 15,000 years ago.

Gnawed human bones were also excavated from the same period.

Experts believe that during the Ice Age, cannibalism would have been a good way of finding food in tough times while also removing rival groups and ritually absorbing their power.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Art exhibition

Art exhibition is full of excit

Cathy Dineen (arts coordinator), Aideen Fahy, Dr Rubeo, Bríd Hennessy, Ann Daly and Irma O’Keeffe

BY GER CODY

Photos jbsphotoskilkenny Caomhnú Kilkenny, a residential facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities, opened in 2002. It was a purpose-built, single-story unit located within the Kilcreene Hospital complex on the western outskirts of Kilkenny city. And, this week, The Kilkenny Observer made

its way to the centre for the opening of a wonderful art exhibition full of colour, excitement, expression and talent. The art above all is expressive, and as you make your way through the large, bright link corridor between the three residential areas you realise what a great exhibition space it is.

Cathy Malchiodi is an American mental health counsellor who deals in art therapy. Her work in the arts began as a student at the Museum School of Fine Arts in Boston, where she studied multicultural arts, painting

Aylssa Kidd, Solomn Nyathi and Julie Cooke (art teacher)

Artist Jonathan Walsh with staff nurse Emma Shelly

Ellen Curley whose paintings are on display at Caomhnú

Tommy Phelan proudly shows off his artwork at Caomhnú

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Art exhibition

tement, talent and passion and performing arts. Speaking on art therapy, Malchiodi had this to say “Expressive arts therapy and the purposeful application of art, music, dance/movement, dramatic enactment, creative writing, and imaginative play, is a non-verbal way of self-expression of feelings and perceptions. More importantly, they are action-oriented and tap implicit, embodied experiences of trauma that can defy expression through verbal therapy or logic.”

Second exhibition This is the second exhibition to be held at Caomhnú. Last year there was a lovely show of the paintings and textile works of resident Ellen Curley and a large wall hanging by resident Brenda Brennan.

This year as well as many portrait pieces by Ellen, there is also work by the residents of Alacantra House, Kilkenny and a vast amount of paintings by Phil Cass, a resident of Kincora Hostel, Kilkenny.

Speaking at the opening, Cathy Dineen praised the work of the artists, whom she said, showed great patience, determination and skill with the work they produced.

“You are just truly amazing and you should be very proud of the work you have turned out,” said Cathy. Artist Ellen Curley, thanked Cathy and all the staff at Caomhnú for facilitating the work.

There was a great sense of happiness at the launch with staff and residents delighted with the exhibition.

The work on show marks a lifetime of work by Cass and Curley. Both of whom have large back catalogues of work that shows outsider art at its finest. The exhibition is a wonderful example of how art therapy can offer people the opportunity to express themselves, develop new passions and achieve new skills. The day was complemented by finger food and tea and coffee served by the very friendly staff.

The art exhibition at Caomhnú

The art exhibition at Caomhnú

The art exhibition at Caomhnú

The art exhibition at Caomhnú

Pat Maher who is exhibiting at the Caomhnú centre, with Patrick O’Leary

The art exhibition at Caomhnú

John Kennedy and staff nurse Gráinne Byrne

Phil Cass who has his art on display at Caomhnú, with staff nurse Alex Fitzgerald

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Newpark flower beds

Blooming community spirit in Newpark

In a heart-warming display of community spirit, residents of Newpark recently joined forces to create another beautiful flower bed in their estate.

Embellished by the addition of a malus sylvestris tree in the background, the initiative was driven by a shared desire to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the community and bring together people of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicity.

A shared vision The planting initiative was

born out of a desire by the Newpark Residents Association to continue the development of the estate ensuring that the green areas remain accessible and welcoming public spaces to be enjoyed by all members of the community.

Community in action Under the direction of project coordinator Una Lennon, the community came together to dig, plant, and tend to the flower bed. The sense of

camaraderie and purpose was palpable, as neighbours shared laughter and stories as the vision began to take shape.

A successful endeavour The finished planting scheme is a stunning testament to the power of community action. Vibrant flowers of every colour bloom amidst lush greenery, adding to the aesthetics at the heart of the estate. The project has become a source of pride for

the community, and a symbol of what can be achieved when people come together with a shared vision.

Benefits beyond beauty The initiative has had a profound impact on the community, extending far beyond its aesthetic appeal. It has fostered a sense of community spirit and ownership, encouraging residents to take pride in their neighbourhood and work together to achieve common goals. The project

has also provided an opportunity for residents to learn new skills, build relationships, and develop a sense of community purpose.

A model for community engagement Speaking at the conclusion of the project Una Lennon thanked all who had helped to make the dream become a reality. Una insisted that “the success of the project serves as a model for community engagement and empowerment

as it demonstrates that even small initiatives can have a profound impact on community morale and cohesion. As neighbours tend to their flower bed, they will be reminded of the growth that collective action engenders and the importance of working together to build a stronger, more vibrant and more integrated community.” Finally, Una offered sincere appreciation to St Canice's Credit Union for their generous sponsorship of the project.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Twenty years of Newpark Pharmac I t was July 2005 when Sheila Sheehy first turned the keys in the door of a modest unit at Newpark Shopping Centre. Having worked as a pharmacist for almost 40 years, she had been tempted out of retirement, not by ambition, but by a desire to go back to what she loved, serving a thriving community like this one on the northeast environs of Kilkenny City.

Today, her son, Ciarán Sheehy, is the next generation to lead the business, ensuring Sheila's legacy of serving the community lives on, albeit with a unique and innovative approach to evolving with the growing needs of the neighbourhood in the heart of Kilkenny.

The Newpark Pharmacy is known as the busiest pharmacy in the Carlow-Kilkenny region, having expanded by over 50 per cent since 2020.

The forward-looking business employs more than 25 people.

It continues to grow with innovations such as robotic dispensers, high-tech equipment, automation, smart time-saving strategies and a psychology-informed layout.

Ciarán's aptitude for analytics and computation quickly became an unexpected

advantage in running the pharmacy; however, joining the family business was not part of his initial plans. He emigrated to Perth, Australia, for two years to start his corporate career.

"I studied business at WIT, specialising in management, hoping to get a role in a corporate environment," Sheehy told The Kilkenny Observer, "I thought brick and mortar was not my thing, not much room for scale. When I was in Australia, I ended up getting a position managing popular pharmacies. Now I realise the joy is in finding problems in business and solving them."

When Ciarán returned to Ireland, what started as a stopgap at the family business became a calling, and he stepped into the leadership role, applying his unique flair for analytics and problemsolving to serve the community at home.

Transforming healthcare with tech The dispensary is a well-oiled organisation, carefully configured to minimise the impact on staff's time, with a mix of computing, spatial planning, and high-tech equipment for sorting and dispensing,

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y from family roots to future focus including the BD Rowa Smart, a sleek machine introduced to the pharmacy in 2020, affectionately known as Amber.

"Our robot is called Amber after Amber Women's Refuge.

When we introduced her to the pharmacy in 2020, we ran a fundraiser for one of our charity partners, Amber Women's Refuge. Every entrant suggested a name for the robot, and for each one, we made a donation to the organisation.

Someone said, ‘Why don't you name it Amber?’ and we thought it was the perfect fit," Ciarán explained.

The robotic arm whizzes back and forth inside the climate-controlled cabinet with precision speed and accuracy, reading the manufacturer's barcode and QR code to sort packets by date, content, and batch number at a rate no human could attempt. Suddenly, it pauses to dispense medicine, dropping it into the allotted shoot, and seconds later, the pharmacist retrieves it to human-check it and hand it over to the patient. The arm diligently returns to its task of stock rotation and sorting. It works 24/7. When the pharmacy is closed, the animatronic cleans and sanitises the entire enclosure, maintaining

an optimal environment for careful storage.

The result was a 50 per cent increase in the number of patients cared for, "Amber gives the pharmacists more time to be out with clients and customers,” plus 10 new roles were created across all departments in the neighbourhood pharmacy.

The everyone pharmacy "Here, you can really get involved in the community.

We work closely with Amber Women's Refuge throughout the year on fundraising and also awareness and information days at the pharmacy,” Ciarán explains. The pharmacy partners with several local not-for-profits, including Cuidiú, a breastfeeding support group, the Newpark Residents Association, and other charitable organisations that the community brings to its attention, such as the Children of South Lebanon, as well as local sports teams. "I try to look out for the smaller teams and women-led sports, which can sometimes be undervalued. We're proud to support Kilkenny Women's Rugby Team and Newpark AFC, all the girls' football teams."

"We're an everyone phar-

macy," says Ciarán. Explaining that it does not target any one demographic or aim for the more affluent estates in the area. As he says "If you walk through the door, you're part of the community. That's how we work."

That inclusive ethos extends behind the counter, as well.

Newpark Pharmacy operates with a hands-on, open leadership model and no rigid hierarchy, something Ciarán believes contributes to the pharmacy's low staff turnover and sustained morale.

That strong family-like culture was clear at a recent 20th anniversary staff celebration at Sullivan's Tap Room, where more than 30 former and retired staff made the effort to reunite with current team members to catch up and reminisce about the milestone.

As the business looks ahead, its recent expansion has added more floor space, creating a brighter, more welcoming retail area and improving workflow in the dispensary.

The redesign blends function and design thinking with comfort, supporting both staff and customer experience.

Sheila Sheehy stepped back from Newpark Pharmacy

some years ago but still likes to maintain a connection with the people and regularly lends a hand. Reflecting on the milestone celebration, she says "It's wonderful to see how the pharmacy has grown over the past twenty years,” from a much smaller premises with fewer staff to the thriving community hub it is today.

Crediting her son, Ciarán, for "bringing his innovation and exuberance" to the business and bringing changes that she "couldn't have ever seen happen" 20 years ago. Sheila commented “Care of the community has always been at the heart of what we do. Many of our customers have grown up and grown old with us, and it has been lovely to see the area expand with different cultures and demographics become part of the community and part of the pharmacy. With Ciarán at the helm, I see the ethos of the place expanding, without changing it."

As the Sheehys' staff and customers mark 20 years of the New Pharmacy, it stands as both a neighbourhood anchor and a model of forwardthinking care, proof that community and innovation aren't mutually exclusive. It's just good chemistry!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Expanding community care at Newpark Pharmacy

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s part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, Newpark Pharmacy has unveiled its brand-new 36-square-metre extension.

Whilst small in size, the expansion has a big impact on care in the community.

This thoughtfully considered expansion is more than a renovation; it's a reimagining of the entire customer journey.

The project has doubled the dispensary space and improved the shop floor, from efficient prescription dispensing to expert skincare, vitamins, and health advice.

The pharmacy continues to evolve with one clear goal, to serve the community better.

"This store was designed with fluidity in mind," explains owner and secondgeneration manager, Ciarán Sheehy, "not with a consumer driven layout strategy, sending people past tempting purchases to boost sales.

Our customer journey is all about customer comfort and easy access to the essentials."

To deliver the best possible experience for customers, Ciarán undertook two professional development courses with UCD Professional Academy, specialising in customer behaviour

Before

and customer relations. He also holds a qualification as a pharmacy technician, although it is not part of his daily routine, it gives him a deep understanding of how the dispensary operates and how best to support his team.

The 3 x 12 metre extension has been expertly planned to improve the flow of the store.

It has more than doubled the product shelving, with wide, accessible aisles and elegant, floor-to-ceiling displays.

Every section is carefully laid out and clearly labelled, with dedicated zones for skincare, vitamins, wellbeing, hair care, baby care, and more.

"There's nothing on the shop floor that wasn't put there for a specific reason," he says. "Even the bench

seating, despite taking up prime retail space, is there because it matters to customer comfort."

Accessibility was also a priority. The pharmacy now features a wheelchair-friendly counter, a larger-thanrequired consultation room, and a photo hub offering additional privacy.

Behind the counter, alongside traditional services, the team offers passport photos, blister packing, flu and shingles vaccinations, Vitamin B12 administration, sexual health products, support stocking fittings, and more. Extras like a WhatsApp prescription ordering service bring ease to customers' everyday lives.

As a member of the Life Pharmacy Group, Newpark

After

Life Pharmacy offers value and an expanded range of healthcare services, with access to the collective strength of over 90 pharmacies across Ireland.

The extension has also made room for a wider range of high-quality, ethical product lines, including skincare,

beauty, and wellbeing ranges tailored to suit all budgets.

New additions include Caudalíe, Neostrata, ThisWorks, Kash Beauty, and an exclusive partnership with Valley of the Roses, a local favourite in Kilkenny.

"I want people to walk in and see that I have every

range and that it suits every budget. We are thrilled to introduce these new lines," says Ciarán. "All things I had no shelf space for before."

Newpark Life Pharmacy continues to evolve with people, community, and care at the heart of the family business.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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The pharmacy revolution: 20 years of transforming community health

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wenty years ago, visiting the pharmacy in Kilkenny was a straightforward task — pick up a prescription, maybe buy some paracetamol, and head out. Today, a local pharmacy visit might include a flu shot, advice on skincare, or support managing a long-term health condition. Over the past two decades, the role of pharmacies has expanded dramatically, and in communities like Kilkenny, they’ve become essential players in everyday healthcare.

In 2005, Ireland’s healthcare landscape was very different. GP access was more limited, hospital systems were under increasing pressure, and routine health concerns often had to wait for formal appointments.

The local pharmacy was convenient but limited in scope — primarily focused on dispensing medicine, not delivering healthcare services.

Since then, pharmacies have quietly evolved to meet changing needs. As GP waiting times increased and the demand for communitybased care grew, pharmacies stepped into a broader role. In Kilkenny and across the country, they now offer blood pressure checks,

Blood pressure checks at Newpark Life Pharmacy

emergency contraception, smoking cessation, and vaccination services, amongst others. What was once a stopgap between doctor visits is now a destination for trusted care.

The COVID-19 pandemic only accelerated this shift.

Pharmacies became accessible sources of vaccines, rapid tests, and clear infor-

mation when people needed it most. They were often the first point of contact for patients unsure of where to turn. Their steady presence in local communities, especially during uncertain times, helped build deeper trust — and further expanded public understanding of what a pharmacy could do.

Technology has also played

a part in this transformation. Many pharmacies now use automated dispensing systems, digital prescription transfers, and medication packing machines to streamline service and reduce errors. These advancements free up pharmacists to do more of what they’re best at: speaking with patients, offering advice, and spotting potential health issues early.

Just as Kilkenny has grown over the last two decades — with new schools, housing, and amenities — so too have its pharmacies adapted.

Many have expanded their retail spaces, introduced private consultation rooms, and created welcoming environments where customers feel safe and supported. These physical changes reflect a broader shift in how pharmacies engage with the public: not just as dispensers, but as health partners.

For many Kilkenny families, the local pharmacy has become a familiar and reassuring presence. People return year after year, greeted by name and remembered by staff who live in the same community. That personal connection, combined with professional expertise, makes pharmacies a unique blend of medical care and neighbourly support.

As we mark 20 years since Newpark Life Pharmacy was founded, it’s clear their impact reaches far beyond their counters. They’ve responded to a changing healthcare system with flexibility, compassion, and innovation.

In doing so, they’ve helped make healthcare more acces-

sible, more local, and more human.

In a world where healthcare can often feel rushed or impersonal, the quiet strength of the community pharmacy is something to celebrate — not just for what it’s become, but for everything it’s helped us navigate along the way.

Amber - Newpark Life's dispensing robot

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Celebrating 20 Y ears Ciarán Sheehy, Ann, Cheena, Aoife and Sheila Sheehy

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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n Je n ny a n d Cia ráug ht er a D h She eh y wit C hloe at th ei r ry 20th A n nive rs a C eleb ration s

Sheil a and Jenn y and Baby Chloe

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Celebrating 20 years of Newpark Pharmacy

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ewpark Pharmacy marked a major milestone with a Customer Appreciation Day on Friday 25th July, the final event in a month of celebrations to mark the pharmacy’s 20th anniversary in the heart of Kilkenny.

“It’s basically a month of thank-yous,” says owner Ciarán Sheehy. “The Customer Appreciation Day is a way for us to say, we see you, we appreciate you, and thank you for being part of our journey.”

The joyful atmosphere drew scores of local people, families, and friends to enjoy the music and fun alongside the team from Life Pharmacy Group. Balloons flanked the doorway, while customers stopped to take a selfie with Sheila and Ciarán, the multigeneration duo behind Newpark Pharmacy.

Longstanding team member Ann Morrissey described the afternoon “It’s been busy all day with customers coming in to wish us well. There’s such a great atmosphere, community is very important to us, and it shows just how connected we are to the people we serve.”

Photographs of staff nights out and family gatherings pinned to the wall tell a

Ciarán and Sheila presenting cheques to local communities

story of close-knit colleagues and camaraderie. Inside the pharmacy, a guestbook invites customers to share memories, messages, and reflections. The sweet sentiments resonate with the warm first impression you get walking through the doors of the establishment.

Customers have been sending flowers, gifts and cards weeks ahead of the anniversary. The sense of belonging and family is palpable at Newpark Pharmacy.

“Even though I wasn’t here in the earliest days of the pharmacy,” the secondgeneration owner says, “there

isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t look back and think of the people who’ve been with us from the beginning. Today is for them.”

Dozens of children line the pavement for face painting, emerging moments later as butterflies, tigers and superheroes. However, the

heroes of this piece are the customers.

One highlight of the afternoon was when two loyal customers were surprised with donations to causes close to their hearts, Joe Campion, on behalf of the Newpark Residents Association and Munier Zabab,

for the Children of South Lebanon.

Mr Zabab, a customer for 19 years, told us “I know most of the staff here, and even the ladies who’ve retired, Sheila and Angela. They are lovely and caring people who are very helpful in the community. Ciaáan called me this morning to invite me, but I didn’t expect a cheque! That really, really shocked me.

They always open the door to help people, with an open mind. They don’t look at where you’re from or your skin tone. That’s how they show their love. They are one of the best in the world.”

Mr Zabab brings homemade treats to the pharmacy every Friday, as is tradition in his culture. Today, his offering is hummus, ma’amoul dates, coconut cake and an aniseed celebration biscuit.

Ciarán commented “If you walk in the door, you’re one of us. Some of our oldest customers are still walking through that door. That’s not just legacy, that’s loyalty we’re proud to earn, not just today on our anniversary, but every day.”

As the celebration comes to an end, the community spirit that has defined Newpark Pharmacy for 20 years will continue to shape its future.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

More than medicine: how locally owned pharmacies are powering community health and economic resilience

F

amily-owned and locally operated pharmacies continue to serve as vital cornerstones in communities across the country, offering benefits that extend far beyond prescription services. In an era increasingly dominated by online providers, these local pharmacies remain essential for delivering personalised healthcare, supporting local economies, and fostering resilient, con-

nected neighbourhoods.

One of the most notable advantages of locally owned pharmacies is the high level of personalised care they provide. Unlike larger corporations, independent pharmacies offer a more intimate approach to healthcare. Pharmacists often develop long-standing relationships with patients, providing tailored medication counselling, answering questions, and helping

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Newpark Life supporting local sports teams

individuals better understand their treatments. This personal engagement leads to improved medication adherence, reduced risk of errors, and better overall health outcomes.

Locally owned pharmacies are also crucial for ensuring continuity of care. They often collaborate closely with area physicians, caregivers, and healthcare providers to support patients with complex medical needs.

Their flexibility allows them to manage unique patient situations, such as coordinating medication regimens for chronic conditions or assisting with transitions from hospital to home care.

This integrated approach enhances the quality and reliability of care in the community.

Beyond healthcare services, independent pharmacies contribute significantly to local economies. Unlike large corporate chains whose profits are directed to distant headquarters, locally owned pharmacies reinvest earnings back into the community. They create local jobs, support other small businesses, pay local taxes, and often sponsor community initiatives. Their economic presence strengthens the local infrastructure, from schools and public services to community programs.

These pharmacies also offer a level of responsiveness and adaptability that is difficult for national providers to match. They can adjust their services quickly based on community needs—offering medication delivery, compounding services, extended hours, or emergency access to prescriptions. During crises such as public health emergencies or natural disasters, locally owned pharmacies are often among the first to respond and remain operational,

Newpark Life supporting National Breastfeeding Week at St Luke's Hospital

providing vital care when it’s needed most.

Culturally, family-owned pharmacies often hold a long-standing place in the history and identity of a community. Many have served multiple generations of the same families and have built trust over decades of consistent, compassionate service. This legacy fosters a sense of continuity and belonging that is especially important in rural areas and small towns, where healthcare options may be limited.

In an increasingly imper-

sonal healthcare landscape, the role of the family-owned, locally operated pharmacy remains more important than ever. These businesses not only provide critical medical support, but also serve as economic drivers and trusted institutions within their communities.

As healthcare continues to evolve, locally owned pharmacies stand out as accessible, responsive, and deeply invested partners in the long-term health and prosperity of the neighborhoods they serve.

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News

A talk, a bell, and a fond farewell...

fine-cut limestone dressings that display top-class masonry, the decorative plasterwork resulting from a high level of artisanship; and the heavenly stained glass panels.

The new bell installed in 1953 had pealed before the arrival of the walkers… denoting a wedding ceremony that Fr. Jim performed. It was one of the many joyous occasions that the bell had announced to the parish in the past six decades, along with daily calls to prayer and the inevitable grief implicit in its tolling for the departed.

Saint Canices Catholic Church

The Kilkenny Heritage Walkers and Fr Jim Murphy-Notice the spires of three churches on the skyline

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

On Saturday, the Kilkenny Heritage Walkers celebrated part of the city’s proud past with a visit to St Canice’s Catholic Church. However, the group had another reason for stepping onto the sacred ground of the building and the impeccably kept church grounds.

They called to say a hearty

farewell to a dedicated PP. Fr. Jim Murphy had steered his parish along the Highway to Heaven for the duration of his tenure. He had won the hearts of the faithful in the district, serving out his term with compassion, diligence, and a keen devotion to the needs, spiritual and temporal, of his flock.

Fr. Jim will be leaving to take up a post elsewhere at the end of August, as part of a Diocesan reshuffle. While such reappointments are common, locals will miss the Man of God who fulfilled

his role as pastor with great honour, even as they prepare to welcome the next PP. Historian Paddy Neary, who compiled an attractive and studiously detailed booklet on the story of St. Canice’s Catholic Church, gave a wideranging talk on the subject. As he spoke, he took the group from the Church entrance into the bucolic, sunlit garden of the Parochial House, to which Fr. Jim had granted access for the occasion. From the garden you can see the spires of three churches on the skyline...

St. Mary's Cathedral and the

Black Abbey being the other two.

Under a pale blue sky, and against a backdrop of luscious flora, and swallows fluttering overhead, he recalled that the church marked its 200th anniversary last year. Its construction in 1824 was an achievement that defied the odds back then because the Penal Laws still held sway.

The superb architectural features and the magnificence of its overall design did justice to the faith of the people it served for two centuries, Paddy recalled, as did the

On the day of its installation, flags and bunting adorned the church grounds as a choir sang Faith of our Fathers.

On Saturday, a quieter atmosphere prevailed. With the wedding party dispersing, a few of the walkers sat quietly on the base of the highmounted bell as Paddy spoke.

Having completed the visit, the group bid farewell to Fr. Jim Murphy, wishing him well in his new parish.

The Kilkenny Heritage Walkers will be back on the history trail next Saturday, exploring another part of that “Other Country” of the past.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Jammy blackberry and almond crumble cake

Prep: 20 mins Cook: 45 mins Serves: 12-16 Enjoy these blackberry and almond cake slices for afternoon tea, or as dessert served with vanilla ice cream. They’re made with fresh blackberries and jam. Vegetarian.

Ingredients • 225g butter plus extra for the tin • 225g golden caster sugar plus 1 tbsp • 3 medium eggs • 275g plain flour • 2 tsp baking powder • 50g ground almonds • 2 tbsp milk • 1 tsp vanilla or almond extract • 3 tbsp berry jamof your choice (we used blackcurrant) • 150g blackberries • handful of flaked almonds STEP 1 Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4, butter a 20cm square tin and line

with baking parchment. Beat 200g of the butter and 200g of the sugar together in a large bowl using an electric whisk until light and fluffy.

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. When smooth and creamy, add 225g of the flour, the baking powder, almonds, milk and vanilla, and mix to combine.

Sausage & mushroom ragu Prep: 10 mins Cook: 25 mins Serves: 4 Do something different with sausages and transform them into this veg-packed ragu. Great for a family dinner, serve with couscous, mash or pasta. Freezable and low calorie.

Ingredients • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 carrot grated • 3 spring onions finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves grated • large handful of mushrooms finely chopped or grated • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp fennel seeds • 6 pork sausages squeezed out of their skins • 400g can chopped tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato ketchup • mash, pasta or couscous to serve Method STEP 1 Heat the oil in a saucepan over a medium heat and tip in the carrot, spring onions, garlic, mushrooms, oregano and fennel, along with a pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 mins.

STEP 2 Add the sausagemeat and cook until browned all over, then add the chopped tomatoes and ketchup, along with a pinch of salt and 100ml water. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook until the sauce is thick, about 20 mins, stirring now and again. Season to taste, then serve with buttery mashed potato, pasta or couscous.

STEP 2 Scrape the mixture into the tin and level the surface with a spatula. Dot over teaspoons of jam, then scatter over the blackberries, pressing them in gently.

STEP 3 To make the crumble topping,

weigh the remaining 25g butter and 25g sugar into a bowl, add the rest of the flour and a pinch of salt. Rub the ingredients together between your fingertips until they are a crumbly consistency. Mix in the flaked almonds, then scatter the crumble over the cake. Scatter with the 1 tbsp caster sugar and bake for

45 mins until a skewer inserted into the middle comes out clean.

STEP 4 If the cake isn’t ready, return to the oven for 5-10 mins more, then check again. Leave to cool for at least 20 mins in the tin before slicing and serving.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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5

Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

for you to watch in the coming week 1. My Oxford Year

My Oxford Year is based on a popular novel of the same name, so it’s no shock that this is expected to be a big hit.

This rom-com flick stars Sofia Carson as Anna De La Vega, an American freshly arrived at Oxford University. But quickly into her year abroad, she meets Jamie (Corey Mylchreest), and they begin a fun fling.

But Anna plans on returning to New York and Jamie doesn’t plan on going with her. As that fateful day of departure approaches, things start to get messy for this budding romance.

2. Dusty Slay: Wet Heat

Pluribus: From the creator of Breaking Bad Apple TV+ has just given fans a first glimpse of one of its biggest TV series of the year — a release that’s been the subject of quite a bit of rumour and speculation.

Pluribus, a new sci-fi drama from Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul mastermind Vince Gilligan, is a new nine-episode sci-fi drama that will debut globally on Apple TV+ on November 7.

And it’s not just that the new series comes from the creator of two of the most iconic crime dramas in recent memory, or that its cast includes [pictured] Rhea Seehorn (the actress who played Kim Wexler in Better Call Saul).

The buzz has risen to such a fever pitch for this Apple series in part because it’s a complete break from Gilligan’s previous world of drugs and cartels,.

It has been described as more akin to shows like The Twilight Zone and The X-Files.

What’s more, Apple TV+ already believes in Pluribus so much, the streamer has renewed it for a second season months before its first episode even arrives.

How’s that for a vote of confidence?

Of course, the fact that Gilligan’s name is attached to the project is responsible for much of the skyrocketing expectations all by itself.

He’s the creative force who turned Breaking Bad into one of the most critically acclaimed series of all time — that show being the story of a chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin that would go on to redefine prestige TV. Its spinoff, Better Call Saul, managed to achieve a legendary status all its own, thanks to top-tier storytelling and unforgettable performances particularly from Seehorn and star Bob Odenkirk.

Gilligan’s shows like these are known for their m ticulous plotting and moral

complexity, inviting viewers to wrestle with difficult questions while delivering moments of cinematic brilliance.

Think the single blue flower against the black-andwhite desert landscape that opens the Rock and Hard Place episode of Better Call Saul to Walt’s death scene in the Breaking Bad episode Baby Blue, with the camera rising above him as if giving him a ghost-like send-off.

With Pluribus, Gilligan is venturing into new territory: A genre-bending sci-fi narrative that’s still built around his signature style.

Given his track record, it’s no wonder Apple’s streamer is poised to give us one of its most hyped releases of the year.

The official Pluribus synopsis teases a fascinating and honestly kind of bizarre premise: The world’s most miserable person must prevent global catastrophe by stopping an overwhelming

wave of happiness.

The new series stars Seehorn alongside Karolina Wydra (Sneaky Pete) and Carlos Manuel Vesga (The Hijacking Of Flight 601), with guest appearances by Miriam Shor (American Fiction) and Samba Schutte (Our Flag Means Death).

Gilligan is once again blending sharp character work with high-concept storytelling, creating something equal parts strange and compelling.

For now, Pluribus looks poised to join the list of premium originals like Ted Lasso, Severance, and Slow Horses that Apple TV+ has used to build its reputation for quality TV. With its intriguing concept and the creative genius of Gilligan behind it, Pluribus stands a more than decent chance to be the series everyone is talking about when it finally lands this November 7 0m the Apple TV+.service.

Sequel hint for Bend It Like Beckham Bend It Like Beckham screenwriter Gurinder Chadha has announced that she is working on a sequel to the beloved British comedy, which starred Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley.

The story followed two friends, Jess (Nagra) and Jules (Knightley), who

share a love for football and a dream of playing professionally that goes largely unsupported by their families.

Bend It Like Beckham was a remarkable and lauded hit back in 2002, grossing more than $70 million from a budget of less than $6 million, and bagging nomi-

nations at both the BAFTAs and the Golden Globes.

Nevertheless, a sequel has not yet materialised, but that could well change in the coming years as Chadha has revealed she is working on a script for a follow-up she hopes to see released before the film’s 25th anniversary (in 2027).

“I’m excited to revisit the original characters and revive the enduring story and build on the legacy we helped to create for the women’s game,” she told Deadline.

Meanwhile, Bend It Like Beckham’s Parminder Nagra says sequel “should be left alone”.

Dusty Slay, the Nashville comedian who has become one of the biggest up-and-coming names in American comedy.

Slay’s comedy revolves around the mundane aspects of everyday life, and Dusty Slay: Wet Heat looks set to be no different. Don’t come expecting jokes about politics — come expecting jokes about checking out of hotels and hot, humid summers.

3. Trainwreck: Storm Area 51

Area 51 is where (allegedly) the US government keeps aliens hidden from the rest of the world. It’s a top-secret site. So trying to invade it would have to be one of the dumbest ideas anyone could possibly think of ... right?

Well, someone did think of it, and they made a joke Facebook event about storming the heavily-guarded military base to free the aliens.

Which, of course, the US. government didn’t love, threatening to shoot anyone who attempted such a stupendously stupid idea.

See what a bad idea this was ...

4. Leanne

This stars Leanne Morgan as Leanne, a newly single woman after her husband shockingly leaves her after 33 years of marriage. This forces her to start anew and to do that, she’s going to need help.

Enter Carol (Kristen Johnston), Leanne’s ride-or-die sister who’s going to make sure Leanne gets back on the horse (or a hot date) rather than wallowing at home.

From The Big Bang Theory creator Chuck Lorre.

5. Conversations With A Killer: The Son Of Sam Tapes

From Emmy-winning and Academy Award nominated director Joe Berlinger, this chilling new chapter of Conversations With A Killer delves into one of the most infamous cases in American history: the 44- calibre killer, David Berkowitz.

Also check out Unspeakable Sins about a woman trapped in a controlling marriage who finds solace in a secret affair with a younger man until it spirals into a dangerous game of survival.

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA DRAW MATCH Clara minor hurlers meet Tullogher away in a few weeks time in the first round of the championship.

If this meeting in the final league game is anything to go by then spectators are in for a treat. Although there was a certain amount of shadow boxing at play here it was nevertheless very entertaining, as a final score of Clara 2-27 Tullogher 3-24 would indicate.

An audacious flicked goal by Aidan O Connell and a superbly finished goal by Ruairi Bowden Mullen helped Clara into a 2-10 to 0-12 halftime lead. Three second half Tullogher goals helped them overcome a prolific scoring spree by Clara’s Joe Power to salvage a draw. Joe hit a spectacular 0-18 on the night, 0-11 of those coming from play, and was joined on the scoring list by Davy Barcoe, Eoin Corr, Hugh Kelly and Dara Leamy as well as the two goal scorers. It’s doubtful if scores will be as plentiful when these sides meet again with the stakes much higher.

Team - Ciarán Gibbons, Conor Galvin, Daniel Ryan, Tom Murphy. Sam Lawlor, David Barcoe 0-5, Robert Coogan. Hugh Kelly 0-1, Ruairi Bowden Mullen 1-0.

Jack Byrne, Joe Power 0-18, 0-7f, Eoin Corr 0-2. Orí Phelan, Aidan O Connell 1-0, Dara Leamy 0-1. Sub used Liam Treacy.

JUNIOR’S JOY Clara Junior hurlers had to withstand a late Erins Own rally on Saturday in Castlecomer before emerging with a 2-23 to 4-14 victory. The ‘Comer lads outscored their Clara counterparts 3-2 to 0-3 down the stretch but the Clara men had done enough to keep their noses in front.

The home team were first out of the blocks and had 1-1 on the scoreboard within 4 minutes. Conor Hoyne, John Murphy and Joe Power registered points for Clara but three similar Erin’s Own scores maintained the four point gap. Then James Bergin finished a rebound to the net and this prompted a bit of a takeover by the Clara men. They scored five of the next six points with John Murphy (3) catching fire and Conor Hoyne and Ciarán Prendergast also hitting the mark. After Castlecomer briefly stopped the rot with a point Clara finished the half with five unanswered points all from play, by James Bergin, David Langton, Joe Power, John Murphy and the best of the lot from Ciarán Prendergast. 1-13 to 1-6 ahead at the break.

Castlecomer worked hard to reduce the deficit early in the second half but accurate free taking by Conor Hoyne (3f) covered their every move. After they reduced the lead to six Davy Barcoe superbly controlled a ball at the edge of the small square before grabbing it and finishing with aplomb to the net. To ‘Comer’s credit they hit the next two points but four more in a row for the Clara men, again all from play, had them 2-20 to 1-12 ahead and the game seemingly over. Joe Connolly (2), Davy Barcoe and John Murphy were responsible for the latest salvo. Then came that remarkable Erin’s Own comeback which yielded the 3-2 but points by Joe Power, Davy Barcoe and a fantastic seventh by John Murphy (not bad for a wing back!) were enough to get Clara over the line. As well as all of those who made the scoresheet Clara had excellent performances from Lester Ryan in goals, the central spine of Tom Ryan and Conor Cody, corner backs Zach Lawlor and Killian Fitzgerald. Hugh Kelly was also very good at wing back and substitutes Jake Maher, Ben Murphy and Killian Phelan caught the eye for their work rate.

Team - Lester Ryan, Zach Lawlor, Killian Fitzgerald.

John Murphy 0-7, Conor Cody, Hugh Kelly. David Langton 0-1, Conor Hoyne 0-5, 0-4f. David Barcoe 1-2, Joe Connolly 0-2, Joe Power 0-3. Daniel Ryan, Ciarán Prendergast 0-2, James Bergin 1-1. Subs used Jake Maher, Ben Murphy, Killian Phelan.

BRIDGE CLUB Clara Bridge Club is running bridge lessons for beginners and improvers starting on Monday 25th of August. The club will resume playing after the summer break on Monday 15th of September. The club meets on Monday nights in Connolly’s in Dunbell.

New members are most welcome to join our bridge club. If interested please message Barbara on 086 8629171.

CARDIAC SCREENING The Cardiac screening clinic held in Clara’s St Colman’s School for Clara GAA Club was a great success. All appointments were taken up. A mix of

young people and some slightly older attended, all who attended will receive a full report in the coming days. We hope to run this again next year.

KILLIAN GETS WILD CARDED The very best of luck to Killian Phelan who will once again compete in the All-Ireland Poc Fada Competition on the Cooley Mountains on August 5th. Former champion Killian was selected by the sponsors of the competition as a wild card entry.

CLUB LOTTO There was no jackpot winner on the 22nd July.The numbers drawn were 7, 18, and 28. Congratulations to Francis O Carroll, Tony Byrne, Mary Nolan, Joe Casey and Francis O Carroll who win €30 each in the Lucky Dip. O’LOUGHLIN GAELS LISDOWNEY 7’S SUCCESS Congratulations to O’Loughlin’s Gaels Under 13’s, winners of the Lisdowney 7’s competition. On the way to the final they defeated St. Martin’s in the quarter-final by 1-12 to 2-2 and Piltown in the semifinal by 1-9 to 0-8. They defeated Danesfort in a very exciting final by 3-11 to 4-7. Captain Ollie Morrissey received the Sweeney Cup on behalf of his team and the Player of the Tournament award went to JohnBoy Hawe. Well done to all the players and team mentors Maurice Nolan, Paddy Delaney and Jimmy Comerford. The winning team was Casper, Ollie Morrissey, John Boy Hawe, Leon Delaney, Darragh O’Callaghan, Tadhg Power, Luke Mc Kenna, Padraig Ryan, Robbie Geoghegan, Cathal Farrelly.

SUMMER CAMP Week one of O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camp concluded on Friday last. It was a great week for all participants with the good weather helping as they enjoyed the many activities and games with friends old and new. Friday also saw a visit from our Juvenile Section Sponsors Mc Carthy’s SuperValu, James and Miriam Mc Carthy and Kilkenny hurlers Owen Wall, Huw Lawlor and Paddy Deegan. There were treats all round compliments of Mc Carthy’s SuperValu. Well done to all Camp participants and coaches. Week two is underway and will no doubt be equally successful and enjoyable.

CAMOGIE GIRLS TRIP O’Loughlin Gaels Under 10 girls took to road on Saturday last. Their first stop was to participate in a fantastic blitz organised by Tullamore Club. It was followed by a visit to Bay Sports Waterpark in Athlone. Great fun was had by all. Well done to all the players and coaches.

KILKENNY SENIOR HURLING LEAGUE This weekend sees the beginning of the St. Canice’s

Happy Group of participants at O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camp with sponsors James and Miriam Mc Carthy from SuperValu.

Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League and O’Loughlin Gaels face Glenmore in their first game in Mullinavat at 6pm on Saturday August 2nd.

Also in the action will be the club’s Junior E team which plays a quarter final in the JJKavanagh and Son’s Junior E championship against Young Irelands in St. John’s Park at 7pm on Friday August 1st. Support for both teams is essential.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of club lotto dated July 22nd, the numbers drawn were 7, 11, 14, 19 Bonus 15.

Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors Draw. 1 Ber and Lorraine Maher c/o B Maher. 2. Ger Cody. 3. Joan Corkery. 4. Tommy and Imelda Galvin c/o M Deegan. 5. Lorraine Scanlon. 6.

Joe Malone. 7. Nuala Coyne c/o E Kinchella. 8. Paula Rogers c/o Online. 9. Mary Brennan c/o Online. 10.

Jean Costigan Kelly c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

THREECASTLES Threecastles Heritage Group invites everyone to join them at Threecastles Graveyard Ardaloo Rd.,on Wednesday August the 20th at 7pm.to celebrate the History of this important local Landmark. After months of cleanup by a dedicated group of volunteers we are proud to welcome you to join us for this special historical event. We ask people to dress

O’Loughlin Gaels, winners of the Lisdowney 7’s Tournament 2025.

appropriately for the weather. We kindly ask you to park at Campions Pub, which is a short walk away.

Access to the Graveyard involves a small number of steps and is not wheelchair accessible. Light Refreshments will follow this Heritage Week Event.

FRESHFORD VILLAGE MOURNS FOR JOE The people of Freshford were numbed and saddened at the weekend on learning of the passing of Joe Morrissey late of Woodview, Freshford, one of its Trojan community members. Joe who was in his early 70s had been unwell in recent months but nevertheless his passing caused widespread sorrow and regret. He borne his illness with such courage and bravery and always had a smiling face. He was predeceased by his father and mother Paddy and Mary Morrissey and his brother Michael, Kilkenny Street. Joe was heavily involved in the community since his retirement and was one of the leaders in the Freshford Tidy towns since its revival in 2016 with his wonderful ideas, craftsmanship and dedication to the village and beyond. He was always smiling and loved a joke and the craic. No job was too big or too small for Joe and the village benefited in so many ways from his knowledge, skills and unwavering commitment. He was also involved in the Loop Community Café in the village and thanks to his magic hands the place was transformed in the wonderful community café it is today. There was nothing he could not design, build, create fix, salvage or cajole and he even had a say in naming the Café. He would be seen each Wednesday evening on the village green with the Tidy Towns crew painting or cleaning and at Christmas time he would be there putting up the Christmas tree or crib on the village green. He was a keen GAA supporter and a member of St. Lachtains GAA teams over the years and Freshford Town Soccer team. He was an ardent member of Freshford Fire Services for many years also. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, neighbour and friend. He will be sadly missed by all in the village.

He is mourned by his wife Marian, sons Pat and Eoin, daughter Louise, grandchildren, sisters, his Aunt, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephew, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

FROM USA Home on holiday in his native Freshford at present is Jack Doyle Woodview and his daughter Emma.

Jack is home from San Francisco and is a regular visitor back to Freshford.

OSSORY SHOW Congratulations once again to David Condon and his son Gyll who had another super day out at the Ossory Agricultural show last weekend with their home bred ram Gill Vale Bentley winning in his class and been tapped for Charolaise Champion and then tapped for overall show champion SPLIT THE POT This month’s split the pot proceeds are going to Freshford Boxing club and last week’s winner was

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Community & GAA Notes Tadgh O’Flaherty who won €80. Thanks to all for supporting. Envelopes are just €2 each and can be purchased at any of the local pubs or businesses and the winner gets half the pot. Revolut is also available on 08330411011, remember to include your name and address.

GAA St.Lachtains Minor hurlers were defeated by neighbours The Emeralds in the final round of the league last week. on a score of Emeralds 7-16 St.Lachtains 6-13. This defeat meant that the boys just lost out on a place in the league final The U16 boys defeated Mt Leinster Rangers in their final league game on Friday evening last on a final score of 3-21 to 1-18. The next competitive game for both these teams will be the championship in September.

Meanwhile St.Lachtains Junior B hurlers bowed out of this years’ championship at the quarter final stage on Friday evening last in Danesfort, when they were beaten by the home side. A poor start saw St.Lachtains concede two goals in the opening minutes. However the local lads battled back and went in a point up at the halftime break. Danesfort started the second half stronger once again regaining the lead early on and unfortunately St.Lachtains boys couldn’t find a way back into the game this time and spent the remainder of the game chaser the hosts. The game finished Danesfort 3-16 to 1-15 Team: J.Burke, J.Bowden, L.Kennedy, H.Burke, C.Dalaton, J.Bergin, M.Campion, A.Rafter, C.Donnelly, C.Power, J.Fitzpartrick, D.Maher, P.Campion, C.Dawson, C.Donnelly – subs J.Campion, Whitty.

The Intermediate hurlers season steps up a gear on Sunday next as they head to Palmerstown for the opening round of the league taking on Danesfort at 6pm.

The Junior F hurlers will play the quarter final of the championship next weekend. Check out the clubs social media page for full fixtures and details CAMP St Lachtains annual summer camp takes place in Pairc Lachtain from August 5th to 8th. There will be lots of activities for boys and girls aged 6 to 13. For more details contact Michael Farrell on 085 1283075 or Deirdre Dalton on 086 3575025 or check out the clubs social media pages for more details.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

EN PLEIN AIR 2025 Outdoor art class in Freshford for two days facilitated by Kilkenny Artists Rachel Burke and Graham Carew on Saturday and Sunday next 2nd and 3rd August from 10.30am to 4pm - €30 including Saturday lunch. Book your place at this link Https// www.eventbrite.ie/e/en/plein-air-in-freshford-tickets-1533060468129 EGM The North Kilkenny Wheelchair Association will hold their upcoming EGM on Wednesday 20th August at 7.30pm in the Avalon Inn, Castlecomer. All are welcome to attend.

GRAVEYARD CAR PARK Freshford Graveyard is to have a welcomed safety first facility, and work is ongoing on the long awaited car park according to local Cllr. Michael McCarthy. “Fencing has been erected and ground works are going ahead at minute “says Cllr McCarthy and he expressed a special word of thanks to Donal O’Sullivan for his co-operation in the matter.

BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club will host Open Summer Bridge in Threecastles Hall each Monday at 7.30pm all bridge players welcome.

TIDY TOWNS The Committee is busy at minute cleaning up and painting the seats on the green ad they would ask all local residents and visitors to the village to support their application by doing your part where you live or visit. They would welcome all painting, cleaning, litter picks, planting for pollinators and all activities that enhance our beautiful village.

Tidy town’s volunteers meet each Wednesday evening in the village so please come along for a chat and to lend a hand to your community if you can spare an hour.

CAMP Fresh ford’s longest running camp takes place this week from Monday to Friday at GAA Grounds. The camp was founded by local man JJ Grace and has been running for over 20 years, full of activity and fun. Contact JJ on 086 8629666.

GRAVEYARD MASS The annual graveyard mass in Tulla cemetery will now take place on Saturday the 9th August at 6pm.

This is to allow for mass in Tullaroan later that evening due to the shortage of priests.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter, so why not support your own local café. You could meet a friend for a chat and cuppa or some lovely homemade food. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

PARISH NEWS Mass times have been rescheduled for Freshford, Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Starting from next weekend.as follows: Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 7.30pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe,Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1,2,3 basis. There will be no weekday masses for the summer months and it will return in September.

Fr. Liam Taylor PP Ballycallan has taken on administrative and pastoral duties in Freshford for the moment. Freshford will be clustered with Tullaroan, Ballycallan and Fr.Liam is co ordinator of the cluster until August. You can contact Fr.Liam on 086 8180954. Fr. Tony O’Connor has been offering masses in our parishes for past few weeks. With the recent clerical changes in the diocese Fr Mark Condon has been appointed PP for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan.and will take over in late August.

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours CHOIR The parish choir are taking a well deserved break for the summer months and will resume in September.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB U-14 “D” LEAGUE WINNERS The honour of claiming the first county title of 2025 for the club goes to the U-14 hurlers who captured the Kilkenny Roinn D league hurling title in a high scoring final against Mooncoin in MWHire Dunmore Park on Monday of last week. Manager Eoin Larkin was more than pleased with the young Village lads as from the throw-in they were quick out of the traps racing into an early two goal lead. In response Mooncoin made a few positional switches which saw them take a stronger foothold in the game but, the more clinical James Stephens forwards ensured that they took a commanding 5-05 to 3-03 lead into the break. The second half started with both teams sharing control but as the game progressed Mooncoin started to edge closer on the scoreboard. However, the Village defence refused to wilt and, the forwards made good use of their share of possession going on to claim the league title on

an impressive 7-09 to 6-05 scoreline. Overall, this was a fine team performance with some stand out displays from Pauric Ryan in goal, Shay McKenna and James Butler in defence and the hardworking Ryan O’Dwyer at midfield. In attack, strong running centre forward Jeffrey Cleere and sharpshooting corner forward Donal Power were a constant threat to the Mooncoin defenders.

UNDER 14 ROINN ‘A’: It was a week to remember for the U-14 panels and their committed mentors as the U-14 “A” team battled their way through to the Roinn “A” Hurling League semi-final with a convincing 1-14 to 0-07 victory over O’Loughlin Gaels in their Play-0ff fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. In the the Hurling League Play Off against Bennettsbridge on Monday 28th they came away victorious on a score line of Bennettsbridge 3-07 to James Stephens 4-09 JUNIOR “B” Q-FINAL The powerful combination of youth and experience in the James Stephens line-up proved too strong as they coasted to a 2-26 to 3-07 victory over a gallant Fenians side in their Junior “B” quarter-final championship fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan on Sunday morning. After David Walton pointed in the 1st minute, James Stephens operating from a platform of rock solid defence and impressive combination play went on a point scoring spree and led by 0-10 to 0-03 at the 20th minute. In the 23rd minute their dominance was confirmed when Bill McDermott plucked the sliothar from the air and delivered to the net followed by points from David Walton and Matty McWey for a 1-12 to 0-05 halftime lead. A hat trick of points from lively midfielder Sean Casey opened the 2nd half as the free scoring Village forwards, Dara Power (0-02), Eoin Larkin (0-01), sharpshooter David Walton (0-08 in total), Sean Casey (0-04) continued to pepper the Fenians defence increasing the lead at 1-25 to 1-09 at the 21st minute. Before that the renowned Fenians fighting spirit came to the fore forcing replacement goalkeeper Billy O’Sullivan into two close-in saves but their persistence paid off when they found the net in the 23rd and 26th minutes but it was too late as James Stephens went on to claim a comfortable 2-26 to 3-07 victory and a place in the championship semi-finals.

JUNIOR “D” SUCCESS On Friday evening last the Junior “D” hurlers came away from their 2nd round championship fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan with a dramatic 2-22 to 4-15 victory after extra time against neighbours Dicksboro. For long periods during normal time this victory did not seem on the cards as Dicksboro dominated play, racing into a 2-03 to 0-03 lead after just 12 minutes. The Village lads fought their way back into contention with some fine point scoring only to be knocked back with another three pointer as the game approached half time giving Dicksboro a 3-04 to 0-08 lead. Stalemate prevailed throughout the early stages of the 2nd half with both clubs trading points from play and frees but again the ‘Boro edged further ahead with another green flag score to take a 4-08 to 0-11 lead with only 12 minutes left to play. Suddenly, a great goal strike

by James O’Shea offered a glimpse of hope for the Village lads. Astute positional changes were made

by The Village mentors which sparked the team into action driven by impressive leadership from Adam Butler, Liam Fennelly, Sam Larkin, Shane Campion, Joe Greene, Dylan O’Brien and goalkeeper Donagh Carney who foiled some Dicksboro goal attempts with quality saves. With point scores flowing from the sticks of Josh O’Rourke and Sam Larkin a grandstand finish was set up with an exquisite goal from Sean Adams and the last-minute score of the game from Adam Butler to send the fixture into extra time at 2-15 to 4-09. Buoyed by their late comeback the Village carried the fight to their opponents and with points from James O’Shea and Adam Butler they held a two point advantage at 2-18 to 4-10 at the interval. In the nerve tingling closing ten minutes the Village defence heroically held their ground while the forwards answered every ‘Boro score with a swift reply of their own to hold out for a hard-won victory by the narrowest of margins, 2-22 to 4-15 and a place in the next week’s quarter final.

GOING TO THE DOGS On Friday evening 8th August, club members and supporters will be “Going to the Dogs”, that is to the James’s Park dog racing track in support of a fundraiser for the ongoing club development projects in Larchfield and on the Kells Road. Tickets for the fun event cost €10 per adult, with accompanying children Free. Admission tickets will be entered in a draw during the evening. The track opens at 7pm with the first race scheduled to start at 7.30pm. Why not come along and enjoy the craic with the possibility of winning a few ‘bob’ on the night.

THE VILLAGE ABROAD Shop supervisor, Breda Manogue, issues a challenge to all club members travelling abroad during the holiday season. As Breda suggests “If you are away in some far-flung holiday destination from the Glens of Antrim to Australia, New Zealand or Japan and wearing a club jersey / leisure top why not send us a picture of yourself and the location /country to let the folk back home see how far the Village colours have travelled this summer”. Entries must be in before 1st September to allow the adjudicators determine the winning photo, the prize for which is a €50 voucher from the Red and Green shop.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 6, 14, 16, 26. There was no winner. The €40 consolation winners were George O’Connor, Derek Walsh, Rita Neary, Val Malone and Joe Hennessy.

GOWRAN GOWRAN ON THE MOVE Please support Gowran Playground and Hub with ‘One Bottle at a Time!’. Help grow the playground and protect the environment, simply by recycling.

Drop your recyclable bottles and cans into Re-turn community bins located in the playground. Every item makes a difference, with all proceeds going directly toward the development of the playground and hub facilities. Your support is vital, it’s a simple act that brings big impact for local families and our community. Please remember, these bins are for recyclable drinks containers only no general waste.

MOLLY’S TEA ROOM Are you looking to take the hassle out of organising

U14 Roinn ‘D’ League winners

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Community & GAA Notes the food for your shindig? Why not check out Molly’s new catering menu? From sweet treats to savory delights, they will accommodate your needs. Ring 056 7726718 for more details.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Great result from Rochfortbridge with Jack McShane winning the Leinster U16 Strokeplay with a fabulous score of 92 (-16) for 36 holes.

The Kilkenny team of Jack, Eoghan, Harry, Aidan also took 3rd place in the U16 Inter County competition. Well done to Jack and all the boys.

YOUNG IRELANDS GAA A night at the dogs takes place on Friday, August 1st at 7.30pm at Kilkenny Greyhound Track. Tickets €10.

Our new away jersey is now for sale online on the club’s O’Neill shop. A baseball hat has also now been added to the range. Go to the website and simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box to see the New Jersey and all other ‘Bridge gear for sale.

SPLIT THE POT Well done to Shirley Grace who won 110 euro, Michael Murphy who won 30 euro and to Andrea Kelly who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the support.

ST MARY’S PARISH

BENNETTSBRIDGE WEEKLY MASSES Wednesday morning 10.30am, Friday morning 10.30am.

CEMETERY MASSES This weekend, cemetery masses will be held in Tullaherin on Saturday, 2nd August at 8pm and in Bennettsbridge on Sunday, 3rd August 10.30am THOMASTOWN St Mary’s Cemetery Friday, 1st August 7.30pm SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the McGarry family on the death of, Seamus McGarry, Thomastown Road, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny. Seamus (formerly of Kilkenny People Office) passed away on 22nd July 2025, at home, after a short illness, surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Eileen (née Healy) his son, James, daughters, Angela, Siobhán and Samantha. Seamus will be dearly missed by his loving family, brother Thomas, sisters Eileen (McCarthy), Breda (Cleere), Ann (Kennedy) and Bernie (Nolan), son-in-law Eddie, daughter-in-law Emilie, grandchildren Darragh, Kellie and Megan, brothersin-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends.

Seamus was predeceased by his parents Tommy and Elizabeth, sister Maura (Carey) and daughter-inlaw Vanessa.

Reposal was in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green, Kilkenny with Rosary and Vigil Prayers. The remains were removed from his home to St. Bennett’s Church, Bennettsbridge, for Requiem Mass.

A guard of honour formed by Bennettsbridge GAA, escorted the cortege on its journey to the church.

Interment took place in the adjoining cemetery.

LEO NORRIS RIP Sympathy is extended to the Norris family on the death of Leo who passed away at his home in Upland, CA, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025. Leo was born in Woolengrange, Bennettsbridge, County Kilkenny, Ireland on January 16th, 1942, the son of Edward and Mary Norris.

Raised in Ireland, he then moved to the United

U 13s reached the final in the LIsdowney 7s

Bennettsbridge Camogie U12s put up a good show against the Rower Inistioge

States in 1975.

Married June 21th, 1980, to Elizabeth Merki, they moved to Upland, California, and had three children: Sean Norris, Kathleen Norris, and Mary Norris.

He was the proud Opa (Grand-father) of Kayla Norris, daughter of Sean Norris and Amy Laws. A Memorial Service was held on July 29th, 2025, at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 2110 N San Antonio Avenue, Upland, CA 91784.

Leo was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Mary Norris, sister Mary Lyng and brothers, Thomas, Terence, Edward, Michael, and James Norris. Leo is survived by his wife Elizabeth, son Sean Norris and his wife Amy, daughters, Kathleen Norris and Mary Norris, grandchild, Kayla Norris and siblings, John Norris and Catherine Finnegan.

TIDY TOWNS Volunteers were out in force last week carrying out a major clean up of the tennis court area behind the Community Hall. Thanks went to Tetley who trimmed back the trees. A big trailer load of dirt and debris was removed giving the court a much needed facelift.

ART GROUP Final touches are being put to paintings which will hang in the 2025 exhibition in Bennettsbridge Community Hall. The launch will be held on 8th August and Senator Malcolm Noonan will open the exhibition. Months of work will come to fruition when the finished work is shown. The Bennettsbridge group is looking forward to building on the success of previous events.

LOTTO

There was no winner of the jackpot on 21th July, the numbers drawn were, 7, 11, 22, 27. Consolation prizes went to Sue Doyle, The Ring, Michael and Margaret, c/o O’Donnell’s, Shangarry Syndicate, Paddy Walsh c/o Butcher, Bella c/o Olive Morrin CARDS Results 8th July, First Prize Robert Rosie Hayes/ Toddy Skehan, Bridget Murphy/Tommy Hayes ( 12 games ). Table Prize, Vinnie Horgan/John Drennan.

15th July, First Prize R. Proctor/Eugene Malone ( 12 games ) Second Prize, Mary Cummins/Ger O’Neill, Brendan O’Connor/Ger Mc Cormack ( 10 games ). Table Prize Frank O’Neill/Michael Phelan. 22nd July. First prize Anne Lehane/Brian Blackmore ( 12 games ). Second Prize Michael Kenneally/Lar Gibbons ( 11 games ). Table Prize Richard Proctor/ Brendan Malone.

CAMOGIE Our U12 girls showed great fight and determination at the weekend against a very strong Rower Inistioge side. There was some great play in the 2nd half that led to a couple of good scores, but it wasn’t enough to come back. Well done girls and management!

BORD NA NÓG A big well done to our Lisdowney 7s team who took part in the 43rd Lisdowney 7s competition last Saturday. The boys took part in the qualifiers and won both their matches progressing to the finals on Saturday 26th. However they were down a few players from the previous week and bowed out of the Lisdowney sevens cup last Saturday.

GAA Good luck also to our junior E team who are at home to Glenmore this Friday in the championship quarter final. Hard luck to the under 13 who were down a few players from the previous week and bowed out of the Lisdowney sevens cup last Saturday. Our under 14 team played James Stephens in the Roinn A league semi final last Monday evening.

Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for results and fixtures. We host Clara and Graigue Ballycallan this Saturday at 4 pm in the senior league. Help on the day is required from 2 pm.

Bennettsbridge GAA club have launched our Pitch signage campaign. There are still places available and many thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far. If interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

PILTOWN DRAW 2025.

The final Piltown Draw of 2025 took place on July 29th. Thanks again to all who showed support.

HEALTHY CLUBS To raise awareness of the dangers of skin cancer the Bennettsbridge Healthy Club, in association with the NCCP, has installed a sun screen dispenser in the old dressing rooms for use and uploaded information on the dangers of skin cancer on the club’s social media pages.

SUMMER CAMP 2025 This year’s summer camp will take place between August 5th and 8th in the GAA grounds. To register for this fun filled activity camp please contact Cormac Wafer or Enda Morrissey.

FIELD DAY 2025 The field day will take place on August 31st this year in the club grounds. Anyone wishing to help out or display any craft or business please contact Andrea Kelly.

NEW AWAY JERSEY AND BASEBALL HAT

SAMARITANS SHOP The Samaritans shop in St Kieran’s Street would welcome volunteers to help in the shop. If you have three hours a week to spare and would enjoy working in a shop environment please contact Ann on 086 6038985.

BLESSED STATUE OF THE SACRED HEART On Sunday 3rd. August the Statue will leave the Church of the Sacred Heart, Ferrybank. From Monday 4th. to 16th.Agust It will be in place in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe.

On Saturday, 16th. August, Bishop Niall will celebrate Mass at 6.00p.m. in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe, Clogh, after which the Statue will leave the Diocese of Ossory.

CONCERT A concert in St. Canice’s Cathedral on August 5th, from 7.00-9.00pm.Airneán, led by Kilkenny native Joe Leydon will host US choir Encore for an evening of song on August 5th. Encore is the USA’s largest choral organization for adults 55 and over, and a leading organisation in creative aging. Tickets on Eventbrite.

STAND FOR PEACE - MARCH FOR PALESTINE We are heartbroken and outraged by the suffering in Gaza and Palestine. But this is one action we can take, to come together in peaceful solidarity with the people of Palestine. Please join the Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group for a ‘March for Palestine’ on Saturday, August 2nd at 1pm, beginning at the Kilkenny Castle Main Gates. In the words of Pope Leo XIV - “From the Gaza Strip, we hear rising ever more insistently to the heavens, the cries of mothers and fathers who clutch the lifeless bodies of their children...”

CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKSHOP St Mary’s Cathedral, Chapter House Bookshop is open Monday and Tuesday 9.30am - 1.00pm and Wednesday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm. Extensive range of religions items for every occasion. Why not come and browse - you might be surprised!

ROTAS Readers Next Weekend 11.00am – G. Cody, 5.30pm – M. Dowling. Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am-M. Tallent, E. Tallent, N. Molloy. 5.30pm – T. Lawlor, K. Meighan.

YOUR PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPS Sr Betty Cagney, Martina Lawlor. Contact: safeguardingstmarys@ossory.ie Invite your family members to support the Cathedral ‘FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S’ CATHEDRAL at www.stmaryscathedal.ie/ friends GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN ANTIQUES AUCTIONS (GORESBRIDGE) Our next auction takes place August 18th. Suitable items now being accepted. Contact 087 2569496 for more details or email goresbridgeantiques@gmail.com BARROW RANGERS On Sunday 3rd August Barrow Rangers Intermediate team will host a memorial day in honour of the late Johanne Barcoe.

We look forward to celebrating Johanne by playing a tournament in her honour. All proceeds will be donated to St John’s Cancer Ward Crumlin Hospital.

Tournament from 1pm to 5pm.

LOTTO There was no jackpot winner of the lotto on 22nd July. The Match 3 for €100 went to Barry Kehoe.

BRIDGE UNITED There was no winner in last week’s lotto draw of 22 July. Tickets cost €2 and can be bought locally or click on the Clubforce link.

There will be a summer soccer camp for children aged 4-14 from 19th to 21th August. Information on the club facebook page.

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses are on Saturday in Goresbridge at Tom Healy

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Community & GAA Notes 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and at 10am on Wednesday in Goresbridge. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm. The cemetery mass will take place at 7.30pm at Paulstown church graveyard on Friday 1 August.

Church of Ireland services take place at 10am in Paulstown and 11.30am in Borris this Sunday 3rd August.

TALKING THE TALK Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues this Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

HORSE SALES (GORESBRIDGE) Go for gold 3-year old selections take place on 25th26th August. One week remains until entries close for the September International Sport Horse Sale and Performance Connemara Sale.

SHANKILL CASTLE Open to the public each weekend (11.00am - 5pm).

SPLIT THE POT Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie Results of draw of 27th July: 1.

‘Rocket’ (€100), 2. Emily Cheetham (€20), 3. Alice Cleere.

DONATIONS Tar Isteach is looking for good quality bric a brac, household items, it comes in and goes out twice as fast - also good quality men’s clothes, handbags etc. we have enough toys and books for the moment!

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CONCERT Mick McAuley and John Doyle will perform in concert at Ionad Dara on Friday 5 September at 8.30pm. These artists have toured the World with USA based Supergroup Solas and also as a duo.

They have performed with some of the biggest names in the music business. Support on the night will be provided by local Kilkenny musician and singer Gerry Walsh. This promises to be a fantastic night. Tickets €23 available from Gerry Kavanagh 086-0443152 or Eventbrite.ie.

KILMACOW COUNCIL WORKS The Emergency Closure at Strangsmills has been extended until Friday 1st August to facilitate the continuation of the works to the parapet wall on a bridge on the local road L3408. A traffic management system will be in place for the duration of the works.

Surfacing dressing works from Narabane to Lacey’s Cross will have been completed this week. A lower advisory speed limit remains in place.

DEDICATION OF MEMORIAL STONE

The memorial stone dedicated to Fr. Brian Flynn (RIP) was unveiled and blessed by Fr. Martin Tobin in the presence of Fr. Aaron Tanko at a ceremony in the High Field on the Sports Complex last Sunday, 20th July. Ursula Knox, sister of Fr. Brian, explained how the Sports Complex Committee had erected the stone and named the walkway after Fr. Flynn to acknowledge how helpful and supportive of the Sports Complex Committee he was, especially in getting ownership of the lands at the Sports Complex transferred to the Committee to hold on behalf of the people of Kilmacow. Jo Rockett and Geraldine McGrath recited two poems they each had written which encapsulated the regard and respect for Fr. Brian and the fond memories local people had of his time in Kilmacow.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 7, 11, 14 and 27. There were four Match 3 winners.

MAINTENANCE OF OLD GRAVEYARD The working group for local graveyards will continue its work for this year at the Lower Street, Kilmacow from 2.00pm on Saturday, 2nd August. All offers of assistance appreciated.

ECUMENICAL SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE Kilmacow Parish Old Graveyard Committee will host an ecumenical service of remembrance in the graveyard in Lower Kilmacow on Friday, 22nd August. It will also include a heritage talk as part of the programme of events for Heritage Week in Kilkenny.

GO FUND ME The Sports Complex Committee’s Go Fund Me page is still open for donations. Almost €6,000 has been received to date and the page is nearing the target raised. The funds received will be used for the maintenance, repair and enhancement of the facilities and amenities at the Sports Complex.

Patrick Street, Kilkenny.

MULLINAVAT

JOHNSTOWN

GRANT AWARD Mullinavat Community Group Drama Club was awarded €11,000 by Kilkenny County Council at its meeting on 21st July under its Community and Cultural Facilities Capital Grant Scheme. The grant will contribute towards the cost of lighting, sound, projection and curtains at the Community Centre in Mullinavat.

NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEK Heritage Week will run from the 16th to 24th August.

This year’s theme is Exploring Our Foundations.

The registration portal is now open on the Heritage Week website. Groups must register by Wednesday, 30th July to be included in the Kilkenny Guide.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Kilkenny Book Fair takes on Saturday next, August 2nd, from 10.30am to 5pm in the Club House Hotel,

SUMMER CAMP SPA UNITED Spa United Summer Camp in partnership with Coaching Tekkers. Spa United will hold their annual summer camp from August 18th to 21st. Open to girls and boys ages 5 to 15 and all skill levels. The camp will be run by qualified coaches with focus on having fun and developing as players. Cost € 85 per player which includes a teaching tekkers training kit. € 10 discount for siblings. You don’t need to be a member of Spa United. Information and booking teachingtekkers.com or scan the QR code.

GOLF CLASSIC FENIANS H.C. Fenians H.C. will hold their annual golf classic in Rathdowney G.C. on Monday next August 4th. Team of four € 140. You could if you wish sponsor a tee box or a prize or be part of the main sponsorship.

To book a team or any information contact Billy

KILMANAGH MASS TIMES Saturday August 2nd: Killaloe at 6pm and Tullaroan at 7.30pm. Sunday August 3rd: Ballycallan at 9:30am and Freshford at 11:00am. Saturday August 9th: Tulla at 6pm and Tullaroan at 7:30pm. Sunday August 10th: Ballycallan at 9:30am and Freshford at 11:00am. Saturday August 16th: Kilmanagh at 6pm and Tullaroan at 7:30pm.Sunday August 17th: Ballycallan at 9:30am and Freshford at 11:00am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm mass on a 1,2,3 basis.

LOTTO Results for 21st July. Numbers drawn were 4; 14; 16; 19. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Jim Ryall, Caroline Murphy and Lauren East. Seller’s prizes went to Martin McGrath and Ann Fitzpatrick.

Next week’s jackpot will be €18,200.

LOCAL PATTERNS Killaloe Pattern will take place on 9th August at 8:30pm. Tulla Cemetery mass will also take place on 9th August at the earlier time of 6pm. Tullaroan Cemetery mass will take place on Friday 15th August and St. Michael’s Pattern will take place on Sunday 28th September.

SOCCER NEWS We are now on Instagram. Please give us a follow to keep up to date on all fixtures, results and news from River Rangers. Find us at river_rangers_afc.

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.

Fitzpatrick on 0868368040.

FENIANS SUMMER CAMP On August 12th to 14th from 10am to 1pm for children age 4 to 13 years. Three days of fun, enjoyment and skill development. Bring a packed lunch. Registration on the first morning of the camp. Contact Briain Ryan or Elizabeth Tynan Whyte.

ST ANNE’S GOLF CLASSIC St. Anne’s camogie club will hold their.golf classic in Rathdowney G.C, on Saturday August 30th . Teams of four € 120. You might also like to sell raffle tickets, sponsor a tee box or a prize. Funds raised to help cover costs like equipment, insurance, refs. etc.

Contact Anna Ryan on 0873916720.

THE MILL CENTRE URLINGFORD The Mill Center is closed for holidays from Monday July 28th to Monday August 11th. Don’t Forget Their Family Fun Day on August 17th from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

KNOCK This is your last call for Johnstown parish pilgrimage to Knock Thursday August 7th leaving Johnstown 8am. Names to Marie Wilson on 0868585158.

URLINGFORD SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The numbers drawn were 4,8,11,21. There was no jackpot winner and five match threes Zoe and Ava Power, Daniel and Aoife Dermody, Tom Costigan, Vincent Morrissey and Marguerite Dermody.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO The numbers drawn were 5, 13, 17, 29, bonus number 6. There was one match three winner: Michael Webster. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Norma Bergin, Ann O’Brien, Julia Doyle, B. Lanigan, Catarina, Oisin, Oscar and Julia. Promoters prize: H. Roche.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Save the date: Family Fun Day - August 17, 1.30pm4.30pm in aid of our Counselling and Play Therapy Services.

Some of the services available at the Centre: Senior Alert Alarms; Clothes Donations; Youth Club; Counselling and Play Therapy; Allotments; Cois Nore Advice Clinic. For more information, contact us on 056 8838466.

Applications are now being taken for the LTI course for 2025/26, anyone interested in applying call or drop into the Centre.

The Centre will be closed for holidays from Monday, July 28 and will reopen on Monday, August 11.

URLINGFORD TOWN TEAM Urlingford Town Team has been working hard over the past few months to get the Community Centre open in Urlingford. Following extensive consultation with the fire Officer in relation to obtaining a new fire certificate, we now need to raise addi-

Dedication of memorial stone to the late Fr. Brian Flynn 250720

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Community & GAA Notes lysloe Sensory Garden. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

HOPE FOUNDATION Lucy Keogh Barnaville is going to India with the Hope Foundation next year. To raise money she has an idonate raffle setup and the prizes are signed Tipperary jersey and signed Munster jersey. To donate go to https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/HopeLucykeogh CONAHY

tional funds to cover additional works required to solve historical issues. Given that the building has undergone extensive renovation, it is viewed as a new structure. We would greatly appreciate your continued support in helping us to fundraise so that we can bring this valuable facility to the community as soon as possible.

You can help us by taking part in our Split the Pot fundraiser. Tickets are available for just €2 each, and every contribution brings us closer to opening the new Community Hall. You can buy your tickets on Revolut at 0871613426, or from any committee member or participating local shops. Please visit our website at www.urlingfordtownteam.ie URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT The July 27th winner of Split the Pot is Thomas Grace who received €735. Congrats Thomas on behalf of Urlingford Town Team. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut 0871613426. Thanks to everyone for their continued support GRAINE CARDS Progressive 25 card game in Graine Hall every Wednesday night at 8pm sharp. All are welcome.

URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

THE ROSARY The Rosary will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Glengoole on weekday evenings at 6pm, Saturday before 6pm Mass and Sunday 12 noon.

FENNOR CEMETERY Fennor cemetery mass will take place this Thursday 31st July at 7.30pm. If anyone wishes to take part in

the choir you would be very welcome.

CEMETERY MASSES The following dates has been set for the annual cemetery masses in the parish. All mass times will be at 7.30pm Tuesday 12th August, Boulick cemetery.

BALLYNONTY FESTIVAL The festival will take place on the 9th and 10th August. Further details next week.

MUSIC ON THE REEN Music on the Reen will take place on Sunday 17th August commencing at 2pm. All are welcome.

KNOCK Cashel and Emly Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock takes place this Sunday, August 3rd led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. Pilgrimage programme commences at 2pm with Rosary, followed by Anointing of the Sick, concelebrated Mass, Rosary Procession and Blessing of Religious Objects. Sacred Music on the day will be led by Cashel and Emly Diocesan Choir. We look forward to welcoming Pobal Ailbhe to Knock Shrine on our Diocesan Day. GORTNAHOE BINGO A special summer weekend bingo will be held this Saturday evening 2nd August at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €4,000 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game and a summer special game for €800. There will be hampers and Split the Pot on the day. We look forward to many people home on holidays in the parish and now that schools are off for the summer, we welcome families from the parish also. It will be a great afternoon’s entertainment for all on the weekend.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Bridie Fitzpatrick who won €500 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for August is in aid of Bal-

HURLING Both the junior E and junior B hurlers were in action over the recent weekend in their respective championships.

The junior E hurlers battled hard but were second best to Danesfort on Saturday evening last in Danesfort. They led by 1-7 to 1-4 at half time, but the home side dominated the second half to eventually win out by 2-15 to 1-9. Conahy will now face into a relegation play off, which will take place in a few weeks time.

The junior B side lost out to Tullogher-Rosbercon on Sunday morning last in Tullogher in the championship quarter-final. The home side led by 0-10 to 0-4 at half way, and though Conahy rallied towards the end with a couple of late goals, Tullogher were able to win out by 0-23 to 3-9.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 24, 26 and 42. There was no winner of the €1,700 jackpot so the consolation prize winners were Darragh Hennessy, Lisa McGrath, Paddy Delaney, Paddy and Jamie Walsh and Alan Ruth. The promoter prize winners were Nora Delaney, Larry Bergin and Toddy Lacey. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

FUTURE STARS SUMMER CAMP Conahy Shamrocks GAA & Camogie Club’s “Future Stars” Summer Camp will take place from Tuesday, August 12th to Thursday, August 14th for all primary school children. Registration costs €40 per child can be made through ClubZap or by contacting Conor Brennan on 086-8100167.

POLO GROUNDS SPONSORSHIP Recently, Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club has undertaken a pitch side sponsorship programme, and this has been a huge success todate. Over the last 12 weeks, the club have placed 53 advertisements around the main playing pitch in the Polo Grounds.

Another 17 advertisements can still be accommodated around the pitch, and in this regard the club is asking members and parishoners for help to secure additional sponsors. If any business / family / group of friends would like to discuss this option please contact Brian Gallagher on 087-1365666.

COIS NORE OUTREACH SUPPORT Cois Nore Outreach cancer support service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at Dr. Hogan’s Rooms, the Square in Ballyragget and in Castlecomer on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 12 noon at the Old Courthouse, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquiries are welcome.

CANICE THE CAT - ORGANISED 5K WALK/RUN Help bring Canice the Cat from Kilkenny, Ireland to Kilkenny, Minnesota, USA! Join Cois Nore on Sunday, August 3rd at Castlecomer Discovery Park.

Registration on the day starts at 8.45 a.m. The 5K run starts at 9.30 a.m., registration fee is €20 (€10 for under-16’s). There will be refreshments and a celebration of Cois Nore services first year anniversary in Castlecomer at the finish line. All support is so welcome.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS Some upcoming events in Castlecomer Library include the following: Summer Stars Reading Challenge: If you have young readers participating in our Summer Stars reading challenge, be sure to pop in and collect your bag, pencil and bookmark on your next visit. For all those who read 8 books and complete the challenge before the 31st of August, you will receive a medal and certificate for all your fantastic reading! For those who wish to participate, there is still plenty of time just pop into the library to register!

Summer Stars Craft Table - Drop in and get crafting at our summer stars craft table on Wednesday, August 13th, from 2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. Our craft table will be full of crafting supplies, ready for you to make your own creative crafts during your library

visit.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday 3rd. 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil Saturday at 6.30p.m.

FIRST FRIDAY Feast of St. Alphonsus. Visitation with Holy Communion will take place as usual on Friday. Please let us know if you would like to receive Holy Communion in your home for the First Fridays or at any other time.

CEMETERY MASS Mass will be celebrated in Stonecarthy Cemetery on Friday 1st. August at 7.30p.m.

PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses. Mary and Peggy O’Shea, Boolyglass, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 3rd.

August at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR) Reader, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Tom King, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan: Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Mary O’Grady. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00pm. Mary Murphy. Sunday 10.00am. Ruth Foran.

SAFEGUARDING IN THE DIOCESE OF OSSORY Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT AGM On Wednesday the 3rd. of September, Stoneyford Text Alert will hold their AGM at 7.30p.m. in the Community Centre and everyone is invited to attend. Existing committee members are stepping down and a new committee will be elected at the meeting.

BLESSED STATUE OF THE SACRED HEART: On Sunday 3rd. August the Statue will leave the Church of the Sacred Heart, Ferrybank. From Monday 4th. to 16th.Agust It will be in place in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe.

On Saturday, 16th. August, Bishop Niall will celebrate Mass at 6.00p.m. in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe, Clogh, after which the Statue will leave the Diocese of Ossory.

ST PATRICK’S PONTIFICAL UNIVERSITY MAYNOOTH Applications are still open at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth for programmes in Theology and Pastoral Liturgy (Higher Diploma/Diploma options). Visit their website for more details at www. sppu.ie/courses.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. The draw on Monday 21st. July 2025 produced the following numbers: 02; 26; 01; 29.Due to this it was discovered that there was one winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn, but there was no Jackpot Winner: €500.00. Winner, Claire O’Neill, “On-Line”, well done Claire €25.00 Seller of Winning Ticket, Ger Carroll.

3 x €15.00 (Sellers): James Irish, Fred Malzard, Pat Fitzgerald.

“STAND FOR PEACE” March for Palestine on Saturday, 2nd August 2025.

Throughout the world people are heartbroken and outraged by the suffering in Gaza and Palestine.

One action we can take is to come together in peaceful solidarity with the people of Palestine. You are kindly invited to join the Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group for a ‘March for Palestine’ on Saturday, August 2nd. at 1.00p.m, beginning at the Kilkenny Castle Main Gates. In the words of Pope Leo XIV – “From the Gaza Strip, we hear rising ever more insistently to the heavens, the cries of mothers and fathers who clutch the lifeless bodies of their children” THOMASTOWN LIBRARY Opening Times,Tuesdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. Wednesdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m.: 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m.: 5.30.m. to 8.00p.m. Thursdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. Fridays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m.Saturdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.30p.m. (closed on Saturday of Bank Holiday weekends). So it’s closed this Saturday HOPE - FOR OUR PILGRIM JOURNEY The Priory Institute, two week on-line Summer School is reflective, informative and interactive and will run from 11th. August. The course includes eight recorded presentations and two on-line zoom discussions and is very flexible as it is delivered entirely online. Find out more and register at prioryinstitute.com

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

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Hurlng matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

As the dust settles on the intercounty hurling scene, Kilkenny will go into an eleventh season without having had their hands on the big one, the Liam MacCarthy Cup. Our seniors exited the All-Ireland hurling championship at the semi-final stage, going down to eventual champions, Tipperary. We will review the season closer to 2026, but there is no doubt that there are many opinions on Noreside and beyond about how far the Cats are away from finding that midas touch at the top level.

Something that always stirs debate and chatter amongst hurling fans across the Island is the national broadcaster’s ‘Team of the Year’. While the Premier County were relaxing in the surroundings of their hotel in the capital, The Sunday Game’s analysts were discussing the XV players selected for this ‘award’. Obviously, the All-Stars and associated nominations will possibly hold more sway with the hurling fraternity, it’s topical to dissect RTE’s selections, pitting them against Kilkenny’s regular starting line-up. A quick overview, Tipp had seven players selected, while beaten finalists Cork had a quartet of stickmen picked. Galway and Dublin had one representative each which left two men from the Marble City completing the selection.

Sunday Game selec vs Cats – you decide!

How do Noreside’s finest match up to RTE’s Team of the Year

Goalkeeper 1. Rhys Shelly (Tipperary) The Moycarkey‑Borris clubman really came of age this season.

Don’t forget he wasn’t first choice between the sticks at the start of the year, but the 23-year-old took the jersey from the experienced Barry Hogan and added much to Liam Cahill’s outfit. Shelly played ten championship games, scoring 0-3 and became the first netminder ever to score from play in an All-Ireland final.

Glenmore’s Eoin Murphy has been the Noresider’s goalkeeping custodian for more than ten years, and one of only three players still earning their stripes that have a celtic cross medal to their name.

His legacy is built on years of consistency, legendary saves, and top-tier puck‑out strategy. ‘Scruff’ turns 35 in a couple of days and has Aidan Tallis and Dean Mason breathing down his neck.

Defence 2. Robert Doyle (Tipperary) 3.

Huw Lawlor (Kilkenny) 4. Seán O’Donoghue (Cork) Inniscarra’s O’Donoghue had a great year in Rebel red while Clonoulty-Rossmore’s Doyle couldn’t be faulted as he was like a second skin on his man! Mikey Butler has been a standout manmarker in recent seasons but has probably not been at his usual standard in 2025. Personally, I thought Tommy Walsh was

progressing well and doing ok, but The Sash man found himself replaced by Shane Murphy, possibly injury related. Huw Lawlor – the country’s greatest full-back over the past few years, and touch wood, for the next few also. He is the glue in the Cats rearguard and his ability to pluck the sliotar out of the sky is a serious asset to Kilkenny.

5. Eoghan Connolly (Tipperary)

6. Ronan Maher (Tipperary) 7.

Ciarán Joyce; (Cork).

Kilkenny know all about Cashel’s Connolly, he had a stormer in the semi-final win over us, knocking over scores into the bargain! Tipp captain Maher, solid, dependable, unflappable and dealt well with TJ’s threat during the last four clash. Castlemartyr’s Joyce was a real driving force for Cork and didn’t do much wrong all season.

Born to score Mossy’s the man!

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Hurling matters

tions !

Cian Kenny had a great season for the Cats

Hand’s up if you’re the best No.3..

Huw Lawlor

power, pace and scoring threat are all hard to stop and he kept going in the final even when his team’s race was run. No disrespect intended, but the Galway’s man’s inclusion in the team really baffled me. Tipp’s Willie Connors, Cork Tim O’Mahony anyone?

Another name I would throw into the mix is Cian Kenny. The Village star has had an outstanding year in the black and amber, putting club relegation aside and really performing for his county. His partner in crime in midfield, Jordan Molloy, another player who hurled really well for the Cats. Both our lads are different in build to the ‘big names’ in other sides and you sometimes hear that ‘cry’ from the fans, that we need a power horse in the middle.

Fionan Mackessy perhaps?

Had the Cats have gotten over the line against Tipp, I feel that Mikey Carey would have been in the conversation for a half-back spot. His dynamism, athleticism and ability to notch scores, sets out the Young Ireland’s man as a quality hurler. Paddy Deegan, Richie Reid and David Blanchfield all had minutes in this line, but the Bennettsbridge man’s availability was hampered through injury.

Mikey Carey has been going well in the stripes

Midfield 8. Darragh Fitzgibbon (Cork) 9.

Cathal Mannion (Galway).

The engine room proved as crucial as ever in the battle for Liam. Charleville’s Fitzgibbon is a complete animal in this zone. His

Forwards 10. Jake Morris (Tipperary) 11.

Andrew Ormond (Tipperary) 12.

Cian O’Sullivan (Dublin).

Another player that perhaps raised an eyebrow of two with his Sunday Game selection is Dublin’s Cian O’Sullivan. I know that the St Brigid’s man was top scorer from play in the championship and had a great individual performance in the surprise win over Limerick, ok, I am arguing against myself here!

Andrew Ormond is a player that really caught the eye this season, getting through a mountain of work all over the pitch and troubling the scoreboard also. The final member of the half-forward line can’t be disputed. Jake Morris has reinvented himself and the fleet-footed Nenagh Éire Óg man has been sensational as The Premier County landed the ultimate prize in July. Henry Shefflin, when speaking of Morris’s selection as Hurler of the Year said ““I thought he was brilliant. I think Jake has become selfless in his game the amount of link-up play he does; the amount of dummy runs he does.” “He was a goal scorer up to now, he’s now become a fulcrum of that Tipp team.” You would be a brave man to argue with Mr. Shefflin!

The Cats have chopped and changed a little in this area.

Adrian Mullen had a season interrupted by injury and looked a little off the pace against Tipp. The Shamrocks man is an unbelievable hurler and if he can get a good season under his belt, under Henry in Páirc Na Seamróg and

more importantly, stay healthy, he’s top notch. Billy Ryan is another that had the Noresiders got a final appearance, would have been in the reckoning.

Strong running, endless work rate and a scoring touch, the Graigue Ballycallan man is bubbling nicely and could be key next season.

Our captain, John Donnelly put in his usual shift in stripes but will demand more of himself in 2026.

13. Mossy Keoghan (Kilkenny) 14. John McGrath (Tipperary) 15. Brian Hayes (Cork).

Brian Hayes was one of Cork’s standout performers this season.

The St Finbarr’s player was a real handful for defenders and loved to notch a goal or two. The second coming of John McGrath proved to be a vital asset in Tipp’s rise to the top in ’25. The LoughmoreCastleiney man was influential in everything Cahill’s men did good. Notching 2-2 in the decider was one of the main reasons the blue and gold clad men downed the Rebels. The third member of the inside forward line was none other than our own Martin Keoghan. The Tullaroan attacking star was one of the brightest lights in Derek Lyng’s side. Mossy was the 3rd highest scorer from play in the championship and weighed in with an impressive 8-38 over his thirteen appearances in stripes in 2025.

Two-time former Young Hurler of the Year, Eoin Cody sort of mirrored his Shamrocks clubmate Adrian Mullen’s stop-start campaign. Injury meant Kilkenny didn’t get the best out of Henry’s nephew, but like Mullen, Eoin will be back stronger and fitter next season. What can we say about TJ? Listen, the legend owes Kilkenny nothing. He was our top scorer in the championship and if he decides to stick around, there is a role for him. The likes of Luke Hogan, Gearoid Dunne, Billy Drennan and Harry Shine will all develop if TJ signs on again.

It will be interesting to see the All-Star nominations and see how close the pundit’s selections mirror the ‘definitive’ guide. For our players its club action this side of Christmas, and beyond if all goes well. Shamrocks Ballyhale and Bennettsbridge battled it out last night, with further action this weekend. Perhaps Henry will have explained the Sunday Game Team of the Year selections to those in attendance in Thomastown!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Jan McIntyre and Eoghan O Shea, seek planning permission in respect of the following works: (a) demolition of an existing rear extension; (b) permission for a new front porch; (c) permission for a new single storey extension to the side and rear; (d) retention of an existing structure to the rear containing a garage, workshop and WC; and all associated site works to the house at 4 College Gardens, Wetland, 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.

I, Michael Joseph McGuinness wish to apply to the above planning authority for permission at O’Loughlin Road, Kilkenny, R95 Y803 to consist of 24 apartments, private open space amenity, car parking etc.

The proposed works to comprise; - 1) Demolition of existing warehouse, shed and yard slabs, certain boundary walls and alterations to walls retained ; 2) the construction of 3 floors of residential accommodation, (each floor will contain 4 no. 1 bed apartments and 4 no. 2 bed apartments, the total units proposed is 24 units) over a ground floor entrance hall/ stair & lift well, waste management room, services accommodation and car park; 3) Bicycle Parking, 4) Open Space/Amenity 5) Site Services comprising surface water disposal and attenuation system (SUDS), foul drainage disposal system to existing mains, water services from existing Irish Water mains, fire hydrants, street lighting etc. underground cables and ducts and all associated site works; 6) upgrading of existing access to O’Loughlin Road for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicular use; 7) boundary treatments, hard and soft landscaping, etc.. Site area c.0.24ha. Note: existing buildings on the frontage of O’Loughlin Road are unaffected.

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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Agents: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Outline permission is sought Kate Holland and Kevin Kelly for a part single and part two storey dwelling, new vehicular site entrance, soakpits, and all other associated site development works at Bridge Street, 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 I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client Richard Kenny. Permission to construct Slatted shed with loose area and all associated site works at Seskin South, 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 9.00 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Significant Further Information/Revised Plans Christopher Carey has submitted significant further information/revised plans in relation to the planning application no.

25/13 for: (A) the permission to build a single storey family flat extension to the north gable of existing dwelling house at Westcourt North, Callan, Co Kilkenny, (B) all necessary groundworks and service connections from existing house, (C) the decommissioning of existing septic tank to existing dwelling and the installation of a new waste water treatment plant and percolation area suitable for a 4 bedroom dwelling, and (D) retention of existing domestic usage shed.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee, not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours of 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 4.00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of two weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in a case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation, and such permission or observation would 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 1st August 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

SEAMUS READE 4TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Seamus Reade whose 4th Anniversary occurs on 12th August 2025.

Just a prayer from the Family who loved you Just a memory, fond and true In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you.

From your loving family and friends.

Anniversary Mass for Seamus in St. Canice’s Church, Sunday 10th August at 10am.

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. E.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. I.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. B.H.

Prayer to St. Jude

I promise, O Blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor granted me by God and to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. May the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, and loved in all the tabernacles until the end of time.

Amen. I.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. B.H.

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. E.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.C.

62

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

Classifieds Motors

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

087 2587745

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 1st August 2025