Kilkenny Observer 02 January 2026

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 2nd January 2026

Tel: 056 777 1463 E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie W: kilkennyobserver.ie

TO ALL OUR READERS AND ADVERTISERS

2

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

EVERY FRIDAY

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM SALES E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie T: 087 382 0109 or 087 342 1958 EDITOR E: editor@kilkennyobserver.ie SPORTS E: sportseditor@kilkennyobserver.ie FEATURES E: featureseditor@kilkennyobserver.ie

3

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny

Observer

10,000 COPIES PRINTED AND DISTRIBUTED ACROSS CITY AND COUNTY EVERY WEEK kilkennyobserver.ie

Renting outlook gloomy

Nationwide pressure zone sees 38% rise in landlord sales The housing crisis is not going away anytime soon, as the recent rise in landlords exiting the market is expected to increase in the first months of 2026, the latest house price survey reveals.

The introduction of a nationwide rent pressure zone has led to a 38% annual increase in landlord sales in many areas, the Irish Inde-

pendent REA Average House Price Index shows.

More than 60% of sales in Limerick city are due to landlords selling their properties, according to REA agents.

Elsewhere, REA agents in Kilkenny, Carlow, Kerry, Longford, Monaghan, and Tipperary all attribute 40% or more of their sales to the

upcoming change in rules.

Pat Dooley, of REA Dooley, warned that the Government was walking into an even bigger rental crisis.

“We expect that the first quarter of 2026 will see a further sharp rise in landlord sales,” said Mr Dooley, who is based in Limerick.

“We have had numerous enquiries in our offices re-

garding the changes, and we are expecting a substantial rise in instructions.

“While this might help the ever-growing shortage of stock in the sales market, it will inevitably be to the detriment of the rental market.”

Throughout the country, there are consistent reports of rented properties about to go on the market.

“Across the country, we are seeing small landlords with one or two rental properties being faced with a stick-ortwist decision, with a deadline of February 28,” REA spokesperson Seamus Carthy said.

“In the face of uncertainty over the legislation and sixyear leases, people are either opting to sell now or decid-

New 5-beds in Slieverue

My life with the sick in Uganda

The go-ahead has been granted for a housing development in South Kilkenny. Belmont Park Housing Association has received planning permission for the construction of five-bed single-storey dwellings in the Milepost, Slieverue.

Work will also be carried out on the existing site entrance, a connection to the public water scheme, drainage and sewage systems, and all associated site development works.

“When I walked through the departure gates at Dublin Airport last January to fly to Kampala to volunteer with Hospice Africa Uganda (HAU), I was overcome by excitement and fear,” writes Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny journalist Miriam Donohoe.

“At 61, when many of my friends were planning retirement, I was choosing instead to uproot myself from a comfortable life to give a year to a cause that had tugged at my heart for over a decade.”

That was 10 years ago…

Read the thought-provoking African journey of Miriam – pictured here with children in Uganda – on Page 14.

So, what will 2026 bring?

New speed-safety camera zones A total of 12 new mobile safety camera zones have been operational across Co. Kilkenny since January 1, in an effort to reduce the number of speed-related crashes.

The move comes as a total of 390 new mobile safety camera zones are now also operational nationwide,

bringing the total number of mobile safety camera zones across the country to 1,901.

The primary purpose of the mobile safety camera zones is to lower the number of speed-related collisions, reduce injuries on roads, and save lives.

To date in 2025, there have

ing to keep the property as a long-term pension investment.”

While supply continues to cause issues, there is an anticipation of further landlord sales across the area in the new year, with REA Brophy Farrell in Kildare also noting the impact of new bridging loans for people hoping to downsize.

been 190 road deaths. Tragically, this is the highest level of road deaths on Irish roads in more than a decade.

Safety cameras operate in areas where there is a history of speed-related collisions, known as speed enforcement zones.

All zones are available on

the Garda Siochana website.

Speed is a killer, as research has shown that nine out of ten pedestrians struck at 80 km/h will not survive, while five out of ten struck at 60 km/h will survive.

The change in speed limits introduced in February 2025, from 80 km/h to 60

km/h, has impacted rural local roads (designated as L roads – e.g., L8282), which are often the first and last leg of many journeys in the countryside.

These roads primarily serve local traffic and are the arteries of many rural communities.

And so another year is gone, and a new one begun. Where did that time go? Whooosh! Yes, it’s true – the older you get, the quicker time flies. One wonders what 2026 will bring.

Ireland sees the 100th anniversary on May 26 of the founding of Fianna Fáil, and my money is on Taoiseach Michael Martin not going anywhere anytime soon…

Paul Hopkins, Page 8

Social media ban on under-16s

Australia became the first country to ban social media for under-16s in December. “Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it,” PM Anthony Albanese told parents.

Should we follow Australia and introduce a blanket ban on social media accounts?

Marianne Heron, Page 12

>>> IF THERE’S SOMETHING YOU’D LIKE TO SEE FEATURED ON THESE PAGES, CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE <<<

4

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

News

The children that Santa Claus forgot Behind the closed doors of homes across Ireland, many children suffered in silence this Christmas.

“It’s such a hard time of year to feel so alone. I haven’t spoken to anyone today. I wish things were different, like it is in the movies, but it’s not. It was brilliant to be able to call Childline. I knew that you would be here for me and it does help a little.” Emma*, 14.

Heartbreaking data from Childline shows that over a three-day Christmas period (December 23, 24 and 25), while many of us were enjoying gifts, treats, twinkly lights and Santa, Childline received 615 contacts from children who turned to the team because Christmas for them was not a time of joy but one of neglect and misery. Shockingly, seven young people turned to the agency with suicidal thoughts.

Bullying, abuse, neglect, mental health, substance misuse, strained family relationships and grief are just some of the many reasons children turn to Childline – reasons that sadly are even more pronounced during what is meant to be a magical time of the year.

Additional statistics from Ireland’s only 24/7 listening service for children and young people reveal:

·The Childline team spends the equivalent of 146 full days a year talking to children and young people in immediate crisis – 35 children and

young people a year are in the process of trying to take their own life whilst in contact with the Childline team Additionally, · Childline

receives over 2,300 contacts a year in relation to sexual, physical and emotional abuse – 300 children a year contact Childline about sexual abuse

involving rape and being forced to watch and/or perform sexual acts.

In the last five years, there has been a noticeable in-

crease in the number of children engaging with Childline who are at high risk of harm.

Sadly, such stark revelations come as no surprise to the dedicated team of staff and volunteers at ISPCC. “Christmas is supposed to be the one day when families spend time together in peace and harmony,” said volunteer Joe Keane. “However, for children who call Childline at Christmas, the holiday can be one of the loneliest and most difficult times of the year. As a volunteer, being there on Christmas Day means I can make sure they feel listened to and heard.”

John Church, CEO, ISPCC, said: “For too many children and young people, Christmas simply doesn’t happen. Too many don’t have the Christmas that they dream of and deserve. Instead, a day that should be full of joy is nothing special and sometimes a lot worse.

“They turn to Childline for support, and our amazing staff and volunteers are there for them 24/7 over Christmas, as they are throughout the year. Without help from public donations, we would simply not be able to be here for every child who needs us.” * To help Childline continue to be there for children, go to ispcc.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

5

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

6

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

News

Jobs look good for New Year – survey Ireland’s labour market is entering 2026 in a state of evolution rather than slowdown, according to the Matrix Recruitment Salary Guide 2026, with salaries across most sectors expected to remain broadly in line with 2025 levels, while in-demand roles are expected to see a salary increase of between 3% and 6% (median).

Sectors experiencing acute skills shortages, most notably engineering, and sustainability and environmental roles, will see the strongest growth in salaries, with median increases of approximately 8% and 10% expected respectively.

Speaking about the Irish labour market, Breda Dooley, Head of Recruitment at Matrix Recruitment, said the market was entering the new year on a more confident footing following a period of uncertainty in 2025: “Businesses are finishing the year with renewed confidence as inflation eased, trade stabilised and investment strengthened.

“Organisations are now planning 2026 hiring with greater clarity, balancing strategic growth with a renewed emphasis on retention, internal mobility and workforce resilience,” she said.

Ireland’s evolving labour market According to Matrix Recruitment, Ireland’s labour market is being reshaped by technological transformation, sustainability requirements and regulatory reform. AI adoption has moved rapidly beyond pilot projects and is now embedded in business-critical processes, particularly across engineering, manufacturing, finance, quality and supply chain functions.

“AI is reshaping how companies organise, plan and make decisions,” Breda Dooley noted.

“This is prompting organisations to build more future-ready workforce strategies, with a strong focus on digital capability, adaptability and compliance.”

Evolving employee expectations are also influencing hiring and retention strategies. Professionals are increasingly prioritising roles that offer purpose, opportunities development and meaningful impact, while employers are making more deliberate hiring decisions centred on operational resil-

ience, leadership depth and long-term capability building.

Salary growth: Engineering and Environmental The Matrix Recruitment Salary Guide predicts clear salary increases within sectors experiencing persistent talent shortages.

Demand for sustainability and environmental roles continues to grow as companies prepare for stricter ESG reporting rules and new EU sustainability requirements.

Ongoing skills shortages mean employers will be competing for candidates with recognised sustainability qualifications and practical experience in compliance, analysis and project delivery.

Engineering will continue to be one of Ireland’s most competitive hiring markets in 2026. Ongoing investment across pharma, medtech, food manufacturing, infrastructure and energy projects, alongside the widespread adoption of AI and automation, is sustaining strong demand for process, automation, maintenance and project engineers.

Talent demand – Financial Services, Accountancy and Credit Unions Ireland’s financial services, accountancy and credit union sectors remain resilient heading into 2026, with regulation, digital transformation and stronger governance reshaping workforce priorities. In accountancy and financial services, ongoing skills shortages and regulatory complexity continue to push salary levels higher, particularly for experienced and leadership roles.

As the sector balances community values with modernisation, recruitment is expected to remain steady across lending, finance, compliance, operations and member services throughout 2026.

Salaries stable across key sectors Sectors including manufacturing, quality & laboratory, and supply chain are expected to see moderate salary growth for key roles.

Manufacturing continues to benefit from investment in advanced engineering and AI automation, while competition remains strong.

Leinster was no Scrooge, with leftovers, this Christmas time New Gousto research shows almost one in 10 households in Leinster give away their Christmas leftovers, the highest rate in the country. No other region comes close to this level of festive generosity, putting Leinster firmly at the top of Ireland’s Christmas giving table.

Gousto’s research, carried out by Amárach, paints a picture of the nation’s eating habits during the festive period – with Leinster trumping the other provinces when it comes to generosity at Christmas.

And the giving does not

stop there. Leinster is also one of the least wasteful parts of the country. Only 8% of households say their leftovers end up in the bin, compared with higher levels elsewhere. Most people here reheat, repurpose or pass their food on to someone who will enjoy it.

St Stephen’s Day traditions are alive and well, too.

Well over half of households (57%) say they reheat their festive food the following day, giving lunches and suppers a second life without fuss.

With 150 recipes every

month, fresh pre-portioned ingredients designed to minimise food waste and clear recipe cards, customers can plan ahead, choose meals that suit the season and keep Christmas cooking simple.

Portions start from €5.13, or €2.57 with the introductory offer. For more information or to place an order, visit www.gousto.ie or download the Gousto app.

Founded in 2012, Gousto pioneered the recipe box offering in the UK with a bold ambition to change the way people shop and eat.

According to a spokesper-

son, Gousto is on a mission to become Ireland’s mostloved way to eat dinner. Delivering precisely measured ingredients and easy-tofollow recipe cards directly to homes, Gousto makes it simple to cook exciting meals from scratch.

“With the widest choice of recipes, all carefully tried and tested by expert chefs, Gousto ensures that every dish is made with fresh, quality ingredients, over a third of which are sourced from local Irish suppliers, a share we aim to grow over time,” the spokesperson said.

€1 million fund to aid adult literacy The Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) Programme Office, supported by SOLAS, has announced its call for community partners across Kilkenny and Carlow to apply for key funding to address local and national unmet literacy needs through its €1 million national Collaboration and Innovation Fund 2026.

The funding call was officially launched by the Minister of State at the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Marian Harkin TD, in Dublin. €1 million in funding will enable community part-

ners across the Kilkenny and Carlow region and Ireland to access important funding to reach adults with unmet literacy, numeracy, digital and financial literacy needs and to create literacy-friendly communities.

Over 700,000 people in Ireland have unmet literacy needs. In today’s world, literacy is much more than reading and writing, and many people have unmet numeracy, digital and financial literacy needs.

This means that daily tasks can be a struggle, such as filling in a form, reading instructions on medicines, adding up a bill, helping children with home-

work or searching online for information.

In the Kilkenny and Carlow region, 2025 ALL Collaboration and Innovation funding supported the successful rollout of ‘Seed to Feed’, a collaborative project between a local national school concentrating on family learning, and Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB). The initiative provided tactile, hands-on activities that incorporate literacy development, food education and learning for life, with a strong focus on addressing mental health, anxiety and overall wellbeing.

Through nurturing plants from seed to harvest, children and parents were encouraged to slow down, connect with nature, and build confidence and resilience. The project supports positive mental health by promoting calm, routine, cooperation and a sense of achievement, while strengthening family engagement and healthy eating habits.

The closing date is 12pm on Thursday, January 22. * Further information on the Fund and how to apply is available at https://www. adultliteracyforlife.ie/fund/

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

7

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

8

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

One wonders what this year will bring And so another year is gone, and a new one begun — and where did that time go?

Whooosh! Yes, it’s true – the older you get, the quicker time goes. One wonders what 2026 will bring.

Ireland sees the 100th anniversary on May 26 of the founding of Fianna Fáil, and my money is on Taoiseach Micheál Martin not going anywhere anytime soon and being safe for the moment as party leader after that presidential fiasco. Speaking of which, President Connolly will prove herself a formidable representative of her country in 2026.

The housing and homeless crisis is not going away anytime soon either, but a more certain watch will be placed on incoming asylum seekers. Our young people will continue to emigrate. Our health scenario will ebb and flow, with a continuing shortage of medics.

Cancer treatment will see a major breakthrough, of which more anon.

The cost of living will not likely ease. The next four Budgets will be bound by the spending ceilings set down in the Government’s fiscal plan, part of the wider EU move to shore up fiscal responsibility after the last crash. The document sets out a wild ride for the Irish public finances, even assuming ministers stick only to the level of spending splurges to which the Coalition has committed. The plan will dramatically hike the cost of running the country, based in large measure on a belief that the corporation tax magic money tree is going to keep growing. The Coalition is running only to stand still.

Inert, almost.

Climate change will continue to threaten houses precariously balanced along the east coast, while beneath the seas will continue to be a potential threat to our neutrality and our huge shortage of a defence force against any potential cyber warfare. Children in

healthcare will continue to be let down.

More than a handful of Irish artists will command the world stage. Watch the ascendancy of Dublin folk band Amble and Kerry actor Jessie Buckley.

So much, then, for my crystal ball gazing, but let’s see what that old reliable, Old Moore’s Almanac, has to say. The Irish magazine has published prophecies for more than 260 years, and many of its forecasts have been accurate, such as the 2008 financial crash, a pandemic, and an attempt on Donald Trump’s life.

One of its latest predictions for 2026 — that Ireland will face huge drama at the Eurovision — has already materialised. Other predictions for next year include an assassination warning around Britain’s Keir Starmer, that the Irish immigration debate will continue to rage with a new political party forming; a “wild” political situation in Germany with “assassination attempts, cheat-

ing scandals” and the housing market getting worse.

More global and general visions include people falling in love with robots, cruise ship drama, a remake of the controversial Fyre Festival, an avalanche cluster, no more movie studios as movies, commercials and video games will

“Housing and homeless crisis not going away anytime soon

..be made with AI, financial incentives for having babies all over the so-called Western world, and troubles ahead for Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg.

My tuppence worth includes further countries leaning towards right-wing politics, and a mass return to traditional religion. There will be a downturn in the use of social media.

And so, to the aforementioned cancer breakthrough. Also such with dementia, and major news about the harm of processed foods.

Cancer-wise, it will be a global breakthrough with an already hoped-for singular cure for most common cancers with the practice of ‘freezing’ the rogue cells. Already, a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool for cancer patients and medical teams, which can provide important information before hospital appointments and reduce chemotherapy cancellations, is being trialled in a Dublin hospital.

The AI-powered conversa-

tional platform, piloted in St James’s Hospital, means the patient can complete toxicity assessments and report symptoms remotely using their phones.

There will also be breakthroughs in the treatment and prevention of cardiac illness.

Elsewhere, wars and rumours of war will continue unabated, with the threat of Russia looming in the shadows of world chaos.

And finally, to that old reliable geezer, Nostradamus.

Most notably, among his preambles is a total solar eclipse over parts of Europe, the first in 27 years. It’s given devotees of the French astrologer and good old-fashioned apothecary plenty of ammunition when it comes to tethering certain quatrains to the year.

Happy days or what? Only God knows, and she’s not saying nowt about what lies in the thoughts and actions of we humans.

Have a good one...

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

9

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

10

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

News

EU says pensions 'unaffordable' Living longer and low fertility rates puts States under pressure With Ireland's long-awaited mandatory workplace pension scheme, My Future Fund, finally here, a new survey suggests most Europeans believe their country’s state pension system will soon become unaffordable – but they also think the current scheme is not generous enough and do not support options for overhauling it, such as raising the retirement age.

With people living longer and fertility rates at their lowest, Europe’s “pay as you go” state pension systems, cornerstones of the welfare state that have always relied on people in work paying retirees’ pensions, are coming under increasingly heavy pressure.

With attempts to reform them meeting stiff and sometimes violent resistance in countries including France, Germany, Spain and Italy, a six-country YouGov poll reveals the extent of the public-opinion problem governments face.

Many people acknowledge state pension schemes are in trouble: majorities of between 61% and 52% in Italy, France, Germany and Spain said theirs was already unaffordable, as well as 45% of respondents in Poland. In the UK, the figure was 32%.

Looking to the future, people were even more pessimistic: majorities or near-majorities

(49%–66%) in all six countries said they thought that by the time people currently in their 30s and 40s retire, their country’s system would be unaffordable.

Retirees were more optimistic about their country’s capacity to fund its state pension system. Pensioners in the UK were particularly upbeat, with 62% saying they think the UK state pension is affordable,

against only 27% of their nonretired counterparts.

However, while they acknowledged the unsustainable cost, majorities of between 53% and 83% in all countries felt the amount that retirees receive was too low, with that sentiment even stronger (72%–88%) among those actually getting it: pensioners.

Most European pension-

ers rely on a state pension for their retirement income and, in all six countries, majorities of those still in work – ranging from 57% in Germany and the UK to 72% in Italy – were not confident they would have a comfortable retirement.

Moreover, asked what measures they would support to make state pension schemes more affordable, there was a marked reluctance across

all the countries surveyed to accept some of the reforms that many governments are seeking to implement.

The survey found net opposition in all six countries to the ideas of raising the state pension age, increasing taxes on working-age people, obliging working-age children to support retired parents, and reducing the amount of the state pension.

Resistance to raising the retirement age was strong, with majorities or near-majorities ranging from 47% in France to 65% in Germany saying they were opposed to making people wait longer to claim their state pension than the current age.

Proportions ranging from 20% in the UK to 38% in Poland felt the state pension age should be 60, while 22% (Italy) to 45% (UK) felt it should be 65. A plurality (22%) in France said 62 – the age at which it now stands after a planned increase to 64 was suspended.

Opposition to reducing the amount pensioners receive was even more overwhelming, ranging from 81% in Germany to 61% in Italy. But there was some support for legally obliging working-age people to pay into some form of private or workplace pension.

That suggestion was most popular in the UK (57%), where recent laws introduced

an automatic system of payments into workplace pension schemes, but also found significant backing in Germany (49%) and France (41%).

The idea that the state should provide support for older workers to stay in their jobs for longer rather than retiring also proved fairly popular, with support ranging from 57% in Poland through 42% in Germany and France to a low of 27% in Italy.

Italians also stood out on measures increasing the burden on the richest: 66% supported higher taxes on better-off pensioners to fund better pensions for the poorest, and 52% favoured denying high-income retirees a state pension.

Across all six countries, more people (28% to 55%) felt retirees with higher-thanaverage pension incomes should bear more responsibility for funding more generous state pensions for lowincome retirees, rather than younger generations (15% to 31%).

In general, pensioners and working-age people responded according to their interests: retirees tended to oppose lower pension payments, while people of working age mostly rejected raising the state pension age or taxes on their age group.

See John Ellis, page 16.

The six common traits of being 'cool' Come on, let's here it People deemed “cool” boast six surprisingly similar personality traits across cultures, according to a new study that hints at the role played by broadcast media in standardising the meaning of the term.

While their cultures vary greatly, the definition of a cool person in Eastern and Western social circles seems to be identical, according to the study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology.

The study is based on psychology experiments conducted from 2018 to 2022 with about 6,000 adult participants from the US, Australia, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Germany, India, Mexico, Nigeria, Spain, South Africa, South Korea and Turkey.

Each study participant was asked to think of someone they thought was “cool”, “not cool”, “good” or “not good”, and then rate that person’s personality and values.

Using this data, researchers assessed how cool people differed from “uncool” and “good” people.

“Everyone wants to be cool, or at least avoid the stigma of being uncool, and society needs cool people because

they challenge norms, inspire change and advance culture,” study co-lead researcher Todd Pezzuti said.

“The concept of coolness started in small, rebellious subcultures, including Black jazz musicians in the 1940s and the beatniks in the 1950s.

“As society moves faster and puts more value on creativity

and change, cool people are more essential than ever.”

In spite of cultural variations, cool people were universally perceived as being more extroverted, hedonistic, powerful, adventurous, open and autonomous, researchers from the American Psychological Association found.

In comparison, “good” people were perceived as more conforming, traditional, secure, warm, agreeable, universalistic, conscientious and calm.

While there are some overlapping traits, researchers point out that being cool is not necessarily considered “good” in a moral sense.

for Kilkenny's heroes

With less than a week remaining, AXA is reminding people in Kilkenny to submit nominations for the AXA Community Hero Awards before the deadline at 4pm on Monday, January 5. This initiative celebrates individuals who have made a significant impact in their communities, while supporting vital causes across Ireland.

Members of the public are invited to nominate someone who has shown exceptional leadership, innovation or creativity in helping others. Nominations should be submitted online at www.axa.ie in 150 words or less, explaining how the nominee has positively impacted their community in one of the four categories.

The four award categories are: 1. Road Safety 2. Mental Health 3. Women’s Safety and Wellbeing 4. Sustainability

ceived fantastic nominations from across the country; however, we know there are unsung heroes working tirelessly in Road Safety, Mental Health, Women’s Safety and Wellbeing, and Sustainability that we have not heard from yet. With just days left, we’re encouraging everyone to nominate these remarkable individuals. We’re also encouraging people to let their chosen nominees know when their name has been put forward and show them their hard work is appreciated.”

Mick Comerford, Direct Retail Director at AXA Ireland, says now is a great time to consider a nomination: “This season offers a moment to reflect on anyone who has helped us.

The nomination process is available on axa.ie; however, don’t forget that our staff at AXA branches are happy to answer any questions people might have about the process.”

Elizabeth Arnett, Chief Communications, Brand & Sustainability Officer at AXA Ireland, says: “We’ve re-

For more information, visit the AXA branch at Dublin Road, Highhays, Kilkenny, or www.axa.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

11

Advertisement

12

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Teen harm: is a social media ban the answer?

Back in the day, behind the bike shed was the place for experimentation or secrets.

Today it’s in bedrooms, with thumbs working overtime.

It was hard enough being a teenager then, picked upon or bullied if you weren’t popular, good at games or attractive enough. Now anyone, anywhere, can attack your self-image, encouraged by the disinhibition and anonymity of the internet.

When you ask that distorting mirror, “which is the fairest of us all?”, the poisoned apple there acts far more swiftly than any wicked stepmother in a fairy tale.

The risk of that poison is not going unchallenged.

Australia became the first country to ban social media for under-16s on December 10. “Social media is doing harm to our kids, and I’m calling time on it,” PM Anthony Albanese told parents. As though

to underscore the need to police what the tech giants are doing to young people, a new report showed that if 18-to-25-year-olds were given a week’s break from social media, their anxiety and depression reduced.

Should we follow Australia and introduce a blanket ban on social media accounts for platforms like Snapchat, X, Facebook and Reddit for children under a certain age? The Government has the matter under consideration and is currently trialling an age-verification wallet to be integrated with the myGov.ie system as part of a European-wide plan.

Is total prohibition enforced by law the answer, should tech companies be made responsible or should it be up to parents to police their children’s usage? The legal age of consent for sex is 17; the age for buying or consuming alcohol in public is set by law at 18. We don’t

allow untested under-17s out on roads in cars, so why should we expose children’s minds to adult content on the internet?

The counter-argument goes that children are bound to find a way around a ban, which only increases the attraction of social media, and that they have to learn how to use the internet, so much a part of life today, safely. Why not limit under16s to ‘dumb phones’ and let them have smartphones later? More than 70% of 12-year-olds and a quarter of six-year-olds in Ireland have smartphones.

Is it time to give our children back their childhood, as Albanese said? The harm that can be done by social media and access to adult material is no longer in doubt, and it has a greater impact on young girls than on boys. Mental health issues include depression, anxiety, distorted body

image, eating disorders and risky behaviour.

Young teenagers can also be exposed to cyberbullying, sexploitation, grooming and misogynistic material. Then

“Is total prohibition enforced by law the answer?

there is the economic cost, for instance treating a teenager with an eating disorder, which can take years. There is also the psychological impact of the web on teens at a stage when they are undergoing identity formation: experimenting and pushing the limits.

Cyber psychologist Mary Aitkin, author of The Cyber Effect – on how human behaviour changes online – is in favour of a tiered developmental model rather than a blanket ban. “It’s not a parent issue, it’s a health issue,” Dr Aitkin said on RTÉ radio last month. “Parents can’t compete with billiondollar global platforms. In less than a decade, a global uncontrolled experiment has shifted children from play in the real world to play in algorithmic fields that have never been tested for safety.”

Social media platforms’ standards are meant to allow accounts for over-13s.

McGuinness welcomes The Winners for 2025 €67 million Kilkenny funding in Natural Health Store Leas-Cheann Comhairle Deputy John McGuinness has welcomed the allocation of funding for 2025 announced by the Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon, and Minister of State Timmy Dooley. Under this investment, Kilkenny will receive €67 million in supports for farmers and the fisheries sector during 2025. Deputy McGuinness said the funding recognises Ireland’s reputation for producing world-class food and underlines the importance of continued investment to ensure these industries can operate at the highest standards.

Farmers and those working in fisheries are facing increasing pressures, including the impacts of climate change, rising input and energy costs, and ongoing uncertainty in domestic and international markets.

These challenges place significant strain on family incomes and long-term sustainability.

Deputy McGuinness stressed that targeted financial support is vital to help producers adapt, remain competitive, and plan for the future. He added that farming and fishing families are central to rural life and local economies, and protecting their livelihoods is essential to maintaining communities nationwide today.

The Minister outlined that the Department is responsible for managing payments under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), supports provided through the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) and the Seafood Development Programme, as well as a range of nationally funded

schemes. These payments play a crucial role in supporting farmers and fishers, sustaining rural and coastal communities, strengthening food security, and contributing significantly to the wider Irish economy. In 2025, total payments issued by the Department exceeded €2.18 billion.

Minister Heydon noted that payments to farmers remained a key priority throughout the year. Ireland continues to be among the earliest EU member states to issue CAP payments and to reach the highest possible number of farmers. He welcomed the scale and range of payments delivered in 2025 and confirmed that the Department will continue working to issue any remaining payments as quickly as possible, encouraging farmers to respond promptly to outstanding queries.

Addressing the seafood sector, Minister of State Timmy Dooley highlighted that 11 schemes under the Seafood Development Programme 2021–2027 have supported fisheries, aquaculture and processing operations. By the end of 2025, €21.9 million in grant aid had been provided to 1,606 operations. A further €26.6 million was invested through the Fishery Harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Capital Programme.

Ministers also highlighted €76 million in forestry investment and continued support for research and innovation, reaffirming the Government’s strong commitment to sustainable agriculture, forestry and seafood sectors.

CLAIR WHITTY Happy New Year to you all, I hope you had a good one. I am not ready for new years resolutions just yet so instead I thought I would look back on what trended in 2025.

So, let’s take a look, Magnesium was number one, we couldn’t keep it on our shelves. In particular, Magnesium Bysglyinate as this is commonly used to help relax and to get a good night’s

sleep. Fortunately, this did work for many of you. I think this will continue to be a trend for 2026. Sleep is evading many of us.

Mushroom supplements like Lions Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi were popular in 2025 but we saw a huge growth in the Mushroom Coffee Blends with many new products coming on the market. One of our most popular ones is Mushrooms For Life. They have several blends including Organic Lion’s Mane Focus Coffee. The combination of coffee, cardamon, vanilla, and Lion’s Mane makes for a

These should be enforced and regulated with online age verification, maintains Dr Aitkin, while 13–16-yearolds should have restricted access with parental involvement.

This graduated approach seems more realistic than a blanket ban. Personally, I feel that online regulations need to be supported by strong educational measures and parental guidance. If children don’t learn the harm caused by cyberbullying or how to distinguish inappropriate content, those harms may be carried on into adult life.

Consider the online abuse of people in public life, particularly women, the rise in misogyny, incitement to racial hatred and violence.

How much of the rise in domestic violence and sex attacks is partly attributable to social media influence?

This is not only a health issue but a moral one. delicious coffee. I got it for a gift for my son and he loved it.

True Natural Goodness have a lovely blend of 7 Organic Mushrooms; this is a perfect way to increase plant foods in your diet. My colleague at work introduced me to it and now I plan to make this part of my weekly regime. It is perfect to add to water, juice, yoghurt or breakfast cereal. Did you jump on the mushroom train too?

I worry sometimes about health trends, for example in 2025, it was adrenal fatigue.

Yes, many people could have it but one supplement as suggested by social media is not going to be the be all and end all of solving this problem.

The long-term solution is to take a look at the diet and lifestyle, in particular relaxation, breathing and making time for one self. Supplements can then support a healthy body.

Adrenal fatigue shouldn’t be treated lightly, so I am happy when someone calls in to see us for more in-depth advice on these topics.

We ended the year with a new powdered supplement from an Irish brand called Pure Craic. The focus of the product is to help increase energy, focus, and wellbeing without stimulants. It’s early days, but the feedback has been very positive.

So let’s see what the trends will be for 2026.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

13

Advertisement

14

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

News

BY MIRIAM DONOHOE

When I walked through the departure gates at Dublin Airport last January to fly to Kampala to volunteer with Hospice Africa Uganda (HAU), I was overcome by excitement and fear.

At 61, when many of my friends were planning retirement, I was choosing instead to uproot myself from a comfortable life to give a year to a cause that had tugged at my heart for over a decade.

I first travelled to Uganda 10 years ago, after meeting HAU’s inspirational founder, Dr Anne Merriman, in Dublin. An hour after meeting her, she had convinced me to travel to Uganda to give advice on communications and fundraising.

Born in Liverpool to Irish parents and trained as a doctor in UCD, she established Hospice Africa Uganda in 1993 at the age of 57. She was the woman who first brought affordable oral morphine to Africa, transforming pain relief for the critically ill across the continent.

Dr Anne wasn’t just an inspiration; over the years, through regular visits, she became my mentor, my guide, my second mother.

She was fiercely determined; a woman you didn’t say no to. She saw your strengths before you did and pushed you, gently but relentlessly, towards purpose.

Her compassion, sharp intellect and unwavering commitment to easing suffering made her a beacon of humanity. From nothing, she built HAU, championed access to oral morphine across Africa, and trained generations of health workers to treat people with life-limiting illness with dignity.

It turned out to be a blessing that this was the year I chose to come to Uganda.

We all knew that Dr Anne, who turned 90 in May, was in decline, but we assumed she had more time. She passed away peacefully at home just five days after her birthday, having lived a full and remarkable life.

I was privileged to be with her at the end.

The African and global palliative care community mourned her loss. I mourned a woman who had shaped my own path. I wondered whether I would want to come home after her death, but instead I found myself more determined than ever to stay and support the HAU team in carrying forward Dr Anne’s mission: that palliative care be available to all who need it. Working with Hospice Africa Uganda has been profoundly transformative.

You cannot witness end-

Volunteering at 61: Miriam with her Ugandan ‘family’

Kilkenny native uprooted comfortable life to volunteer in Africa of-life care in desperately poor settings without being changed.

I was humbled sitting with patients whose eyes lit up when HAU teams arrived for their weekly home visits.

One patient I met last January was Alice, a mother of six with advanced breast cancer.

The family lived in a oneroom house with no running water.

Thanks to HAU, she was pain-free. Her husband was supported to start a small business, providing money for food and hospital visits.

Her prognosis was poor, yet when I saw her again in November, she looked well and faced each day with hope.

Alongside the deeply emotional work of HAU, this year also allowed me to see, first-hand, the impact

of Ireland abroad. In a year when major donors such as the United States dramatically cut overseas development assistance, I was proud that Ireland stood firm in its commitment to the world’s poorest. I saw the tangible impact of Irish Aid funding in Karamoja, Uganda’s poorest region, supporting education, health and community resilience.

There is a small but vibrant Irish community in Uganda, and I was elected to the committee of the Irish Society, which organises the St Patrick’s Ball and other events, many raising funds for charity. Ireland has been blessed with exceptional ambassadors to Uganda, and this year we said goodbye to Ambassador Kevin Colgan and welcomed Ambassador Mags Gaynor.

ONE OF 10 FROM GORESBRIDGE One of 10 children from Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny, Miriam Donohoe worked full-time as a journalist for 27 years. She has worked for most national newspaper titles during her career, and her last 10 years in journalism were with The Irish Times, where she held various roles including political reporter, Asia correspondent, news editor and features editor.

She has held senior communications manager roles in the National Lottery, GOAL and Trócaire. Last year, she set up as a communications consultant and clients include ActionAid Ireland and Bord Iascaigh Mhara.

Miriam lives between Dublin and Borris.

Being Irish in Uganda carries a particular status.

The bond between our countries stretches back to the legendary Mother Kevin Kearney, who arrived from Ireland in 1902 and went on to establish hospitals and schools across Uganda.

The Irish are loved here, not only for their generosity, but for the respect with which Ireland engages, something you truly understand only when you’re on the ground.

This year wasn’t only about work; it was also a time of personal rebirth.

Uganda forced me to slow down (allegedly), to listen more and to reflect on what truly matters.

Midway through the year came the news that I would become a grandmother for the second time.

I missed my two adult children in Dublin and my six-year-old granddaughter in Sweden terribly at times, but their support for my journey was unwavering. Still, there is nowhere quite like home. Returning to Dublin and joining the throng flooding through the airport for Christmas, I felt a warmth spread through me and a deep sense of belonging.

The first cup of tea, the cold damp air, and the

sound of familiar voices were a balm.

While I lost my second mother this year, aged 90, my real mother, Kitty — also 90 — is still going strong: sharp, and very much the centre of our family. A year in palliative care has made me acutely aware of life’s fragility, and my four brothers and four sisters are lucky to still have her.

She reminds me so much of Anne — two extraordinary, stubborn, visionary women who have shaped my life.

People keep asking if I’m going back. The answer is yes. Uganda is part of me now. And I have a huge personal connection there now — the girls who worked in Dr Anne’s house, and their children. They are my Ugandan family, and we are fiercely close. I will return this January and, while remaining connected to Hospice Africa Uganda, I will take on a wider vol-

With Dr Anne Merriman, who died in 2025

unteer role in a project supporting palliative care across the country. There is still so much to be done.

Last year has shown me that life can still open up in astonishing ways in your 60s. That purpose has no expiry date. That adventure isn’t reserved for the young.

And that you are never too old to say yes to something that changes you.

As I spent this Christmas wrapped in family and love, I carry the lessons of the year with me: the importance of gratitude, showing compassion, and having courage — and the knowledge that some of the most meaningful journeys begin when you step far outside your comfort zone. And at 61, I can hoestly say this: I’ve never felt more alive.

First published in the Irish Independent. Republished by kind permission of the writer.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

15

New appointment

Cllr Eugene McGuinness appointed Peace Commissioner Mick McGuinness (Michael J. McGuinness, 1921–2003) was a highly influential former Mayor of Kilkenny, serving seven times.

He was a long-standing councillor (County and Borough), and a pivotal figure in local development, known for tourism, the Beer Festival, and for securing the Health Board HQ. Mick was also a Peace Commissioner.

And now, his son Eugene, an Independent councillor on Kilkenny County Council, has been appointed a Peace Commissioner.

Peace Commissioners in Ireland are appointed by the Minister for Justice and are generally trusted, established individuals of good character from the local community.

They are often

nominated by public figures and serve voluntarily to witness signatures and administer oaths, with a focus on local need and suitability, excluding most legal or religious roles due to potential conflicts.

Speaking to The Kilkenny Observer, Eugene said he was very happy with the appointment.

“I am delighted to announce that I’ve just been appointed a Peace Commissioner by Minister Niall Collins TD in recognition of my work here in Kilkenny as a councillor. This will allow me to offer a much more comprehensive service to my constituents. I would particularly like to thank Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere TD for doing all the background work necessary to get this over the line; it was greatly appreciated.”

Councillor McGuinness went on to say: “I am delighted to see that my hard work in Kilkenny as a councillor has been recognised by the Minister, considering that, as an Independent, I fall outside the broader circles of the main political parties. This appointment will allow me to offer a much more comprehensive service for my constituents.”

16

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Promising better retirement security Ireland’s long-awaited mandatory workplace pension scheme, My Future Fund, is finally here. But last-minute changes have sparked debate.

Minister for Social Protection Dara Calleary announced new rules just before Christmas, aiming to prevent employers from dodging the system with low-value in-house pensions.

Data protection issues and the financial burden on businesses are also major worries.

The 11th-hour regulations mandate that any employerrun defined contribution pension must be at least 3.5% of a worker’s gross pay in total contributions. Of this, the employer must add at least 1.5% or €1,200 annually, whichever is lower. If schemes fall short, workers must be enrolled in My Future Fund and contributions will be checked over three months to ensure compliance.

This move closes a loophole exposed last month, where

some firms were signing staff up to occupational schemes with as little as 1% contributions, far below the new scheme’s starting rate.

My Future Fund begins with 1.5% each from employee and employer plus 0.5% from the State, matching the 3.5% threshold.

Minister Calleary stressed that well-run existing schemes would not be disrupted, but the rules ensure workers build decent retirement savings.

Unions, like the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), hailed it as a confidence booster, with General Secretary Owen Reidy noting it addresses potential “teething troubles” for around 800,000 workers set to join.

However, business groups are less thrilled. Small firms’ body ISME demanded evidence of widespread abuse, while IBEC warned of “adverse unintended consequences” from hasty changes

without full consultation.

Critics argue it adds pressure on employers already scrambling to register by year-end, with more than 77,000 firms and 645,000 employees signed up so far.

Amid the rush, data protection concerns have emerged as highlighted in recent media coverage. Chartered Accountants Ireland (CAI) flagged issues with the online registration portal, which uses Revenue Online Service (ROS) certificates for access.

CAI’s Cróna Clohisey warned that sub-certificates, meant for limited access, seemed to grant full visibility to all payroll data linked to a firm.

This could let staff snoop on colleagues’ salaries from contribution details or spot enrolments, risking GDPR breaches.

The Department of Social Protection insists “rigorous controls” limit access to authorised users but ac-

knowledged enhancements like mirroring Revenue’s restrictions. Employers as data controllers bear responsibility, but CAI argues the setup creates “significant risk.” In a scheme managing sensitive information for hundreds of thousands, such glitches could erode trust and invite legal headaches especially as deductions start from the first 2026 pay packet.

Finally, the costs are eyewatering for some employers.

An FRS Recruitment survey estimates the average business faces €25,000 in extra employee-related expenses in year one, rising with wage growth and phased hikes, up to 6% each from employer and worker by 2035, with the State at 2%. This could put strains on small businesses in a postinflation economy, potentially leading to broader job market ripples. Three-quarters of employers predict profits will be hit, with a third calling it “sig-

nificant” .Responses include price hikes, hiring freezes, or cuts to investment and training.

While businesses brace for the hit, workers show mixed feelings. Most plan to stay enrolled viewing the costs as manageable, but over half lack full understanding and doubt it will secure their retirement.

FRS’s Colin Donnery called it a “generational shift,” yet warned of cost pressures.

Overall, My Future Fund promises better retirement security for many, but these developments highlight challenges. The rules plug gaps effectively, but data flaws and high costs could fuel resistance. With auto-enrolment affecting one in five workers, careful monitoring will be key to its success, or will it become another bureaucratic burden for businesses? john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 149

"Welcome to 2026, a time to take stock"

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

17

News Kilkenny County Council’s Fire & Rescue Service is proud to announce the introduction of a new Command Support Unit, which was brought into service to enhance the operational capabilities of the Fire Service across the county.

This state-of-the-art vehicle, based at Castlecomer Fire Station, provides Incident Commanders with a modern, safe, and efficient facility to manage emergency incidents.

The unit is equipped with advanced technology, including photovoltaic panels on the roof and onboard battery systems, which supply power to onboard IT and communications systems. This sustainable energy solution significantly Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County reduces the Council Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh handing over the keys for the need to run the vehicle to Castlecomer Station vehicle’s diesel Officer Eddie Brennan engine to power these systems, lowering emissions and supporting greener emergency response practices. In addition, the vehicle is HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) fuel ready, further reducing its carbon footprint and aligning with Kilkenny Fire & Rescue Service’s commitment to sustainability.

“This new Command Support Unit represents a significant advancement Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, with elected members of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Maurice Shortall, in our ability to manage Cllr. John Brennan, Director of Services at Kilkenny County Council Fiona Deegan, and members of the Kilkenny County Council Fire & Rescue complex incidents safely and Service team effectively. The inclusion of

Kilkenny County Council’s Fire & Rescue Service introduces new Command Support Unit

renewable energy technology, onboard battery systems, and HVO fuel readiness ensures we can operate efficiently and sustainably, reducing reliance on the vehicle’s engine and providing our Incident Commanders with the tools and environment they need to make critical decisions under pressure." commented John Collins, Chief Fire Officer, Kilkenny County Council’s Fire & Rescue Service.

The appliance was manufactured by Primo Coachworks, located in Ferbane, Co. Offaly, and funded by the National Directorate for Fire & Emergency Management.

“Kilkenny County Council is committed to supporting our Fire & Rescue Service in delivering the highest level of safety and emergency response. This new Command Support Unit, with its innovative energy solutions and HVO capability, is a vital resource that will strengthen our ability to protect lives and property across the county.” stated Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council.

The official commissioning of the Command Support Unit took place on Friday, 12th December 2025. The keys for the vehicle were formally handed over by the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh to Station Officer Eddie Brennan and his crew members of Castlecomer Fire Brigade.

18

kilkennyobserver.ie

Book launch

William Street bookshop hosts launch photos: jbsphotos kilkenny Stephen Buck and Marian O’Neil prove that dreams can come true. They opened their own bookshop in 2019, and it is nestled on historic William Street in Kilkenny city.

Over the past six years, The Book and Coffee Shop has seen book launches,

plays and recitals.

Marian and Stephen have held creative writing classes and exhibitions. The shop has an extensive selection of rare and second-hand books and offers everything a book lover requires.

It was at this beautiful shop that over 30 people gathered pre-

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

19

kilkennyobserver.ie

Book launch Christmas to hear Anne Kelly read from her newly published novel, The Heir. Anne is a proud Castlecomer woman, now living in Naas, Co. Kildare. How nice it was for the author that many friends from the mining town of ‘Comer made the journey to hear her reading. According to Stephen Buck, it was a pleasure to have Anne read at the store.

From the first word to the last, The Heir by Anne Kelly brings the reader on a journey, immersing us in the lives and happenings of characters whose relationships are entwined in despair, loss, hope and love. Romance and mystery create a most compelling story of an arranged loveless marriage for the main character, Elizabeth Wilding, to Sir Charles Anderson, and the uncertainty over the future for their young son, George. The story unfolds with violence, abuse and deception, alongside the healing power of hope, forgiveness and love. Anne Kelly has created wonderful, intriguing descriptions of nineteenth-century Victorian Yorkshire and beyond. This book is a page-turner. Anne has succeeded in mastering the skill of novel writing, with a natural storytelling technique and keen observation of detail.

“We are always delighted to host book readings and I think our space on William Street complements nice, intimate readings,” said Stephen Buck.

Anne Kelly told The Kilkenny Observer that she was delighted with the turnout and thanked the bookshop owners, Stephen and Marian, for facilitating the night.

The book is available at The Book and Coffee Shop.

John Joe Cullen

New Yorkers don’t mince their words as they praise John Street butcher A supporter of Kilkenny helping the homeless, John Joe Cullen displays a recent CD which was recorded for that charity

John Joe in the role of Private Schmidt, with West End star Rebecca Storm in the musical ‘Letters from the front’

At The Pembroke hotel, Kilkenny John Joe reads a poem at the launch of The Recovery College and The Involvement centre poetry book

In today’s world of communication, we probably connect with family and friends more so today than ever before. In the blink of an eye, we send emails, tweets and WhatsApp messages like they were going out of fashion. However, when it comes to writing a letter, we are not that ‘flaithiúlach’. Although it is not that long ago, the exchange of letters between lovers, friends or parents to children was both touching and something that the recipient looked forward to. And of course, that allimportant letter to a family from an emigrant son or daughter is legendary. There was a time when a page or two was allocated in every national and regional newspaper for ‘Letters to the Editor’. Alas, no more! And more’s the pity.

And so it came as somewhat of a surprise when a letter arrived at The Observer newspaper, complimenting a man well known in the Kilkenny business community. The man in question is the very likeable and charismatic John Street butcher, John Joe Cullen. A man who spends the majority of his spare time as a community worker, involved as he is in such projects as the GAA and, of course, the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee. It is what you could describe as a genuine note of thanks, praise and, dare we say, beauty all on the one page. The letter arrived at The Kilkenny Observer and was written by an American couple who were quite blown away by the courtesy afforded them by Mr Cullen on their recent visit to Ye Faire City.

The Editor Kilkenny Observer Newspaper Friary Street Kilkenny Dear Sir/Madam, My wife and I visited Ireland in November 2022 and, while on a bus tour, we wandered into JJ Cullen Butchers on John Street. We explained that since we were on a bus tour and then staying at a hotel with no kitchen, we were not customers, but regardless, the man behind the counter stopped what he was doing and insisted he would be happy to talk to us. We had been enjoying the breakfasts in Ireland and had questions about the cuts of meat used, hoping we could duplicate such delectable breakfasts at home.

The gentleman showed us anything we asked about, using his knife as if it were his very hand. I suspect that he could have tied his shoelaces with that knife, so sure and dexterous were his movements. Every piece was removed, flipped this way and that, and then returned to its starting place within a millimetre of where it began, all by use of that knife. We were enthralled.

Years later, we talk about three things that we saw in Ireland: the structure in Newgrange, the town of Slade, and JJ Cullen Butchers. Yes, we saw many fine pubs which served Guinness with such care that they were works of art, many fine museums, many fine castles, but watching that gentleman take time out of his day to proudly show us his wares was a high point of our visit to the country.

An absolutely fantastic moment in our lives. What a good dude.

We hope this letter finds him well and in good spirits, and wish to let him know that he made a huge impact on us. Many thanks, Sir, and be well.

John and Judy Holmes Warwick, NY

John Joe Cullen in the role of Captain of the guards in ‘The man born to be King’ at The Black Abbey church

20

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Mussolini, Houdini and who-done-it?

One hundred year from now I wonder what shape our world will be in – that’s if we survive the murder, mayhem and chaos being wrought upon mankind and the planet by that unholy trinity: Trump, Putin and Netanyahu. Meanwhile, here’s what was going on in the world 100 years ago (1926). ********* An attempt was made on the life of the Italian dictator, Benito Mussolini (Il Duce) by the honourable Violet Gibson, daughter of an Irish peer. Shot at from close range the bullet grazed the bridge of his nose but he was not seriously hurt (remind you of anything?)

Mussolini [pictured] was surprised that his would-be assassin was a woman. “Fancy a woman,” he said. ********* Valentino, the famous Silver Screen Lover, died in a New York hospital at the age of

up in various locations after his death. He never showed.

Harry, alas, could not escape the Hereafter.

31. In 1913 Valentino arrived in New York aged 18. Penniless, friendless and unable to speak English, his only asset was his suave Italian charm.

Unprecedented rioting took place as his body lay in state; the street crowd numbered 50,000, mostly screaming, crying women. A British actress, clutching some love poetry she had written about him took a lethal dose of poison. A New York housewife

fatally shot herself while cradling some Valentino photos to her breast. ********* The world-famous escapologist, Harry Houdini, died in a Detroit hospital, aged 52. His ability to escape from a waterfilled milk churn while handcuffed and chained, gained him an international reputation. Houdini made arrangements that he would turn

On the home front In January the floods in Kilkenny were the highest on record. The River Nore rose to a height of almost eight feet above its level and the plight of the inhabitants in the vicinity of John’s Quay, Lower John Street and Greensbridge was a pitiable sight. A concrete wall, about 30 yards long, erected 18 months previously at the south side of the lawn of Kilkenny College, was completely demolished. The Carnegie Library was flooded and grave damage was done to hundreds of books, library files and records. ********* A public meeting was held at the Parade in furtherance of the Fianna Fail movement.

The principal speaker was Mr.

Eamon De Valera who spoke for about an hour. There was a large attendance and Mr. De Va Valera’s speech was listened to with rapt attention.

Previous to the meeting St Rioch’s Fife and Drum Band played through the city to the Parade. De Valera established Fianna Fail on May 16 in Dublin ********* Major and Lady McCalmont had £20,000 (about 180,000 euro) worth of jewels stolen from a locked safe in their home in Mount Juliet. The robbery was discovered at night after the couple returned from the Carlow Point-to-Point races. The Civic Guards considered it the most mysterious ‘who-done-it robbery’ that occurred in the county. A reward of £2000 had been offered by the insurance company for information leading to the recovery of the jewellery.

********* In 1926 an advertisement from A & T Piert. Rose Inn Street (now The Gift Horse) for Twilfits, Irish-made corsets, went as follows: “You can imagine the comfort that comes from Flexible Spiral Steels, unbreakable and rustless, but you will only realise how great the advantage is and how corset-comfort is obtained by actually wearing a Twilfit.

Made in Dublin, there are Twilfits for the big hips or small; tall or short; all designed for perfect comfort and support.” ********* Some years ago (not quite 100) the gentlemen were dressing in the locker room of the golf club when Jim put on a corset. “Didn’t know you had a bad back,” said his pal.

“I don’t but I’m wearing it ever since the wife found it in the back of the car!”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

21

kilkennyobserver.ie

Competition Winner

COMPETITION WINNER

Joe Walsh draws the winning entry Thank you to everyone who entered our competition to win a €200 gift voucher, sponsored

by The Kilkenny Observer.

We were thrilled with the fantastic response and truly appreciate the support. A special word of thanks goes to Joe Walsh, who kindly assisted by drawing the winning entry.

Congratulations to our lucky winner, Catherine O’Hara from Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny, who has won the €200 voucher for Pauls Kilkenny. Established in 1924 on High Street, Pauls Kilkenny is renowned for quality men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, designer brands, schoolwear, footwear and accessories, all backed by expert advice and friendly service.

Happy spending, Catherine!

Joe Walsh

Catherine O’Hara

22

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

New Year and all year resolutions Happy New Year to one and all. New Year always feels like a time for new beginnings and resolutions, and like most I start off with great intentions. This year I’m asking myself, how can I contribute to making the world and my community a better place? How can I step up, what does the world need from me right now? This is a big question, however, I realised that the answers are not that big. They are in fact quite small and that even little things accumulate and can grow in size and effect.

A tiny pebble thrown into a pond makes big ripples.

As I look around, I see rampant individuality, lack of tolerance, divisiveness, lack of happiness, loneliness, isolation, lack of acceptance of self and other, dissatisfaction and so on.

In these turbulent times, our world needs more love, empathy, compassion and

generosity of spirit. These qualities are part of our human spirit. They are not to be bought and sold. They are neither commodities nor expensive, yet they are priceless, and these most valuable assets are stored in the vaults of all of our hearts. If we don’t express them we become insular, narcissistic and our hearts become hardened. The more we express our qualities, the more we develop as wise human beings. The more we realise how enriched we are by these invisible assets.

Someone once said, “Walk a mile in my shoes.” We can all look at others and be judgemental or critical and as Gabor Mate so eloquently reframes the question, “What’s wrong with that person? Into, “What happened to that person?”

The very shift in perspective can create compassion and empathy.

So, here are some ways that we can experiment with to help ourselves feel happy and that spread a little happiness out into the world.

However busy you might think you are, just pause, stand tall, take a couple of deep breaths and let a big smile radiate out from your centre! See, just that changes something indefinable, a bit of a warm glow? Perhaps a slight change of mood?

Whatever… some subtle shift of energy.

A lot has been written about the myriads of benefits we experience by what are called “small random acts of kindness”. The feelgood factor is immeasurable.

When we help another person, we help ourselves… there’s a shift from selfish to selfless. The act of helping is always mutual.

When we look at another person, (Remember that question,” what happened

to… ?” ) we never know what they are feeling or what they are going through so it costs nothing to smile or say, “Good Morning”.

People are so out of touch and disengaged when they are looking at their phones.

Look up, look around and let’s start looking at and, out

“This New Year, small kind acts create change

for each other. Let’s start to take notice of our fellow human beings. Let’s make eye contact when we speak.

Reaching out doesn’t even have to be verbal, a smile, a wave shows you are making connections.

Try it, say, “Thankyou” to the person in the supermarket checkout or the person cleaning the public toilets. Tell them how much you appreciate what they are doing and that it’s important work. Get a bunch of flowers for the neighbour you heard was not well. It’s not difficult to do these small acts and it can just change someone’s day.

Gratitude is another thing that we need to cultivate…

I was buying a new set of windscreen wipers recently and the guy serving me said, “There’s nothing worse than bad wipers!” I burst out laughing… and I replied, “ I can think of a

million things far worse!” and in that moment we both realised just how lucky we are…However bad it might seem, we can all think of at least 10 things to be grateful for. Try it. I’m grateful for the obvious things in my life but think of 40 more….

Your flush toilet, your daily shower, fresh air, clean water… so we also need to stop complaining and count our blessings as life can change very unexpectedly, and we shouldn’t take things for granted e.g.: people close to us, peace, freedom, health, free speech, our civil rights etc.

Gratitude and random acts of kindness are all things that we can cultivate and the more we do so, the happier we become. These are values that can change the world and ones we need to teach our children. www.judithashton.com

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

23

Advertisement

24

Advertisement

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

25

News

26

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion Bishop Patrick Collier is reputed to have taken a swim in the Kings River

Callans Kings River in times past

Part three

Recreation in Old Callan

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Swimming in the King’s River was a much-loved pastime in Callan up to the late seventies. Columnist Peter Roughan remembered the swimmers of his childhood in the town at the turn of the century.

And local newspaper correspondent, Seamus O’ Brien chronicled happy days on the river in his own youth, spanning the Emergency Years.

The Paupers; called after poor folk who dwelt and slaved in the Workhouse in times past, was the name given to the spot on the river most favoured by swimmers.

"Sandy Bottom" on Grainger’s land was a stretch of water for infants to paddle or be washed in. Parents carried or rolled them to the river in prams to avail of free open-air bathing. "Sandy Bottom" was separated from The Paupers by a natural division called The Rocks, an accumulation of rock and stone in the river.

The Little Paupers was at the shallow end. Children

and teenagers frequented it.

Poplar trees stood majestically nearby. Their leaves overshadowed the scores of people who sat or lay down along the riverbank…often affording shelter and protection to them when the skies opened.

About 30 yards from the Little Paupers was the Big Paupers, so-called because it

was deeper. The adults of the town swam there.

In the summer months, there was a daily stream of townspeople to this part of the King’s River. Many of them who travelled from the countryside left their bikes parked against the wall of nearby Cahill’s Quarry and made straight for the deep or shallow waters, depending

on their preference.

Weekend picnics went hand in hand with the big swimming sessions. Many a Callan person remembers this experience as rivalling a day in Tramore at the seaside.

Further down from the Big Paupers was the Horsehole… reserved for priests, Christian brothers, schoolteach-

ers, auctioneers, solicitors, and certain other business people. The "plebs" had to look on from a distance as the upper crust dived into this "Swimmer’s Heaven".

Some swimmers at the Horsehole were more important than others. On a summer’s day in the mid-

On the Big Bridge 1948. left to right: P. O' Brien, P. Walsh, S. Holden, M. Doheny, P. Hayes

fifties, there was a flurry of excitement on the Moat. An important visitor had arrived in town and a swim at the Horsehole was rumoured to be high on his agenda.

Sean Holden welcomed the Bishop of Ossory to the flat grassy summit of the ancient hill. His Lordship had come to Callan on a low-key visit.

The Town Elders had invited him. The sun blazed in an azure blue sky. There wasn’t a cloud to be seen on this, the fourth day of a sweltering heat wave.

Sean cracked a joke to the assembled dignitaries to lighten the mood of the occasion. Alluding to a popular ditty of the time, he cracked: "The sun has got his hat on… and so indeed has His Lordship!"

The Bishop may not have got the joke, as he raised an eyebrow and cast a frowning glance in Sean’s direction.

After viewing the Moat and being briefed on its turbulent history, the high-ranking church leader was guided to Callan’s premier swimming spot. Flanked by Gardai and military personnel, he went to the riverbank in solemn procession. He then disrobed, and dived into the unruffled water of the King’s River.

His vestments and mitre were guarded on the riverbank.

He spent quite a while in the waters of the Calm Avonree before being helped ashore by soldiers and clerics. Locals who observed His Lordship through binoculars swore that he wore the Bishop’s Mitre on his head in the water, but this was disputed by a spokesman for the Diocese who confirmed that the bishop deemed the wearing of his mitre while swimming "totally impractical and unnecessary".

The Bishop praised the Horsehole, declaring that it was better than any swimming pool.

The splashing about in the King’s River ended when all the rocks were removed from The Paupers in the course of a flood relief programme in the eighties. The water became shallower and unsuitable for bathing.

The crowds of laughing swimmers, ramblers, and picnic groups have disappeared from the riverbank.

Many of them have said goodbye to this world. A new generation has grown up that has never seen a swimmer in the Calm Avonree.

That halcyon age, with its rough-and-tumble fun for all, is gone forever…preserved only in sepia toned photographs.

(To be continued)

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

27

Advertisement

28

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Homes & Gardens Fresh start GARDEN NOTES The new year begins with preparation. Sow onion sets and garlic in modules indoors if ground is frozen. Prune apple and pear trees while they’re still dormant. Cut back old hellebore leaves to make room for fresh growth and blooms. Keep bird feeders full to support winter visitors. Indoors, start chitting seed potatoes in trays in a cool, bright spot. Don’t forget to recycle your Christmas tree, shredding branches for mulch.

Bathroom trends to watch for 2026

Spacious family home

STYLE Bathrooms are continuing to move away from stark, all-white schemes. Looking ahead to 2026, industry insiders say colour, texture and finishes will play a bigger role in creating bathrooms that feel practical, comfortable and lived-in.

1. Grey gets its moment Grey is shaking off its reputation for being boring. In 2026, baths and basins are moving into light and dark grey shades that are easy to work with and easier to keep looking good. These tones sit comfortably alongside brassware, furniture and accessories, offering a bit more interest than white without feeling risky. It’s a simple way to add character without going over the top.

2. Texture adds depth Texture is becoming a straightforward way to add interest to a bathroom without relying on bold colour. Fluted and grooved details are showing up on wall panelling, basins and tap handles, adding subtle depth. These features work well against smooth surfaces like tiles, baths and basins. Natural materials such as stone and metal also help give bathrooms a more grounded, considered feel.

3. Finishes matter more Choosing the right finish will be key in 2026. Matt, brushed and tactile surfaces are growing in popularity, influenced by calm, paredback interior styles. Brass remains a strong choice, often paired with matt black or white for contrast. Darker finishes are also gaining ground, with gunmetal offering a cleaner, more modern alternative to traditional chrome.

COURLEIGH, PAULSTOWN, CO KILKENNY| €495,000 | 5 BED | 6 BATH | 251 SQM HOUSE OF THE WEEK Courleigh is a substantial, well-finished family home that offers plenty of room to spread out, both inside and out, in a quiet rural setting just five minutes from Paulstown village.

Extending to 251 sqm, this fivebedroom detached property is presented in excellent condition and is clearly designed to cope comfortably with the realities of busy family life.

Set behind mature hedging and trees, the house enjoys a strong sense of privacy while keeping everyday convenience

close at hand. The M9 motorway is just minutes away, making commuting to Kilkenny, Carlow, Waterford or Dublin straightforward, while schools, shops and local and national bus routes are all easily accessible.

Inside, the layout is generous and practical rather than showy. A bright entrance hallway leads to a large living room with an open fireplace, well suited to both family use and entertaining. To the rear, the open-plan kitchen and dining area acts as the main hub of the home, with ample storage,

a central island, walk-in pantry and a solid fuel stove that adds warmth and character. A utility room and separate laundry room take care of the day-today necessities.

The ground floor also includes two en suite rooms, offering welcome flexibility. These spaces could work equally well as guest bedrooms, a home office, playroom or for future-proofing the house.

Upstairs, the main bedroom is particularly spacious, with fitted wardrobes and a large en suite. Three further double

bedrooms are located on this level, along with a well-finished family bathroom. A small additional room provides a handy home office or dressing room.

Outside, the landscaped gardens are easy to maintain and offer plenty of space for outdoor living when the weather cooperates.

Overall, Courleigh is a comfortable, well-located family home that balances space, privacy and practicality in a sought-after south Kilkenny location.

Agent: DNG Ella Dunphy

Cloud Dancer brightens 2026 interiors INTERIORS If you’re planning a renovation or looking to refresh a room, Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year could make your choice easier.

After a few years of warmer, busier colour trends, this straight-up white is a return to basics, giving homemakers a calm, flexible base to work from.

Cloud Dancer acts like a blank canvas. It brightens rooms, makes layouts feel clearer and puts the focus on what really matters in your home, whether that’s a favourite piece of furniture, a family photo or just a feeling of calm.

Interiors experts suggest

using it to highlight architectural features like panelling, coving, door frames or other detailing in your build or renovation. It also works well to show off the things you love.

Artwork, furniture or décor items stand out beautifully against it.

Small or darker rooms can particularly benefit, as Cloud Dancer reflects light evenly, helping hallways, bedrooms or utility rooms feel more open and airy. To prevent spaces from feeling too stark, pair it with natural textures such as linen, boucle or brushed cotton, which add warmth without clutter.

One of the biggest advantages is how easy it is to mix

with other colours. Changing cushions, throws or accessories won’t clash, so your home can evolve without constant repainting. Whether

used throughout a new build or just in key rooms, Cloud Dancer is simple, versatile and refreshingly honest – a true blank canvas for 2026.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

29

Advertisement

30

Online

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

31

Advertisement

32

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Health & Beauty Freepik

Easy ways to look and feel better WELLBEING You don’t need a full-blown beauty routine or a personal trainer to make a difference. Small, simple tweaks in your day can improve skin, mood and overall wellbeing - and they work for everyone.

Simple, smart, natural beauty SKIN Step into 2026, and the world of beauty feels calmer, smarter and more personal than ever. If you have tried endless serums and multitasking creams, this year is all about simplifying and making your routine work for you. Minimalist skincare is on the rise.

Fewer products, higher-quality formulas and carefully targeted ingredients mean you can streamline your routine without losing results. Every step counts, but you no longer need to overcomplicate it, leaving more time for life beyond the bathroom mirror.

It is not just about what goes on your skin; it is also about how it makes you feel. Wellness and beauty are merging, with ingredients such as probiotics, adaptogens and antioxidant-rich botanicals appearing in creams, oils and face masks. Tools like gua sha stones, facial rollers and massage devices are not just Instagram props. They are becoming part of everyday routines, turning skincare into a moment of calm, focus, and mindfulness. These rituals are designed to help you feel relaxed while taking care of your skin, adding a sense of wellness to daily life.

Freepik

1. Move with purpose Exercise isn’t just about hitting the gym. Even short bursts of movement like taking the stairs, a brisk walk at lunchtime or a few stretches in the morning will get your blood flowing and help skin look healthier. It’s also a natural stress-buster, leaving you feeling energised and alert without needing hours of training. Activities can be tailored to any fitness level, making it easy for men and women alike to include in their day.

Sustainability is also shaping trends in 2026. Refillable packaging, waterless formulas and ethically sourced ingredients are becoming standard rather than optional.

Consumers now expect transparency, and brands are responding. Choosing products that are good for both your skin and the planet has become a natural part of the routine, allowing people to feel responsible about what they use without sacrificing results or luxury.

Technology is quietly changing the way we care for ourselves. Smart mirrors, AI-powered skin analysis,

and at-home devices make personalised routines easier than ever. They allow you to understand your skin and adjust treatments as needed.

Natural, subtle beauty is having its moment. Lightweight foundations, tinted moisturisers, and minimal makeup are popular, allowing healthy, glowing skin to take the spotlight. In 2026, skincare is simpler, smarter, more personal and focused on enhancing your features rather than masking them. It is about routines that work for you, products that are conscious and effective and moments of calm woven into daily life.

In a fitness pickle? Try this in 2026 FITNESS Move over, yoga and spin classes, Pickleball is serving up a new wave of fitness for 2026. This fast-growing sport, a mix of tennis, badminton and ping-pong, is attracting players of all ages thanks to its combination of cardio, agility and social fun.

Pickleball is played on a smaller court than tennis, making it accessible for beginners while still offering a serious workout for more experienced players. Quick lateral movements, short sprints and constant hand-eye coordination make each game a surprisingly effective cardio session. At the same time, the sport’s low-impact nature

means it’s easier on joints than running or high-intensity aerobics, making it ideal for a wide range of fitness levels.

Fitness experts are noticing that Pickleball also supports balance, flexibility and core strength. The fast-paced volleys keep players engaged and alert, while the social aspect encourages regular participation. Gyms and community centres across Ireland are now adding Pickleball courts or dedicated classes, reflecting a growing demand among both casual players and serious fitness enthusiasts.

For those looking to shake up their 2026 fitness routine, Pickleball offers variety, challenge and a sense of community all in one. It’s the kind

Freepik

2. Rethink your bathroom shelf Instead of buying every new product on the market, focus on what works for your skin. A good cleanser, a versatile moisturiser and perhaps one treatment serum can make a noticeable difference.

You can simplify routines without losing results. Swapping in soft, reusable face cloths or investing in a quality shaving or exfoliation tools can add a small touch of luxury while keeping the routine manageable.

Freepik

Planet Pickle

of activity that combines fun and fitness without feeling like a chore. Whether you’re looking for a new way to stay

active, improve your reflexes, or simply meet new people, Pickleball could be the sport to try this year.

3. Make your evenings count How you finish your day is just as important as how you start it.

Dim the lights, step away from screens and take a few minutes for mindful breathing, journaling or stretching. Quality sleep supports skin repair, reduces fatigue and improves mood. Everyone benefits from a calm wind-down, leaving mornings feeling fresher and more energised.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

33

kilkennyobserver.ie

Coffee morning

Coffee morning supported the vulnerable

Photos: JBS Kilkenny Helping the Homeless is a registered charity that offers food, clothes, household items and personal items to those in need in Kilkenny and Dublin.

They travel up to Dublin every second Saturday with volunteers and distribute food on Grafton Street. Mary Pierce and

her husband Brendan said that they usually begin preparing for this on Wednesdays.

The weeks they’re not going up to Dublin, they do food banks for locals in Kilkenny.

Another member of the team is Jackie Cullen, who recently told the Observer that the support for those in need is neverending.

“It is not our job to say what the problem

is,” said Jackie, “but there is a huge amount of people who need support, and Kilkenny Helping the Homeless try to do our bit to assist.”

Last week, at St Mary’s Day Care Centre on Haugney Green, a coffee morning was held and a great number of people turned out in support.

“People are wonderful,” said a very grateful

Mary Pierce. “You just have to look around at the coffee morning and see how many people give freely of their time to support our charity.”

Brendan Pierce was busy serving tea and buns but took time out to thank all who supported the coffee morning and thanked Eamon Corcoran, chair of the day care centre, for allowing the hall to be used.

34

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

News

2025 - A year of Kilkenny - Palestine solidarity 2025 was a year of action and determination in Kilkenny, as thousands of people demanded that the Irish Government pass the Occupied Territories Act to prohibit the import of goods and services from Palestinian settlements illegally occupied by Israel.

After more than two and

a half years of devastating bombardment by the Israeli Defence Forces, largely using weapons supplied by the United States, Gaza’s population has been forced into a small southern area of the territory. Most people are now living in tents, surrounded

by IDF forces, in conditions

widely described as an “openair concentration camp.”

Winter storms have destroyed thousands of tents, flooding families’ few remaining possessions — clothing, bedding, and vital documents — with contaminated water. Only an estimated quarter of the essential food and medical supplies

needed are being allowed into Gaza. Children have already died from hypothermia and malnutrition. Deprived of the basic necessities of life, the genocide continues. At the same time, violent attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank have intensified, carried out by armed settlers alongside the IDF. Amid this devastation, a bright spot has been the determined response of millions of people worldwide. People of all ages have taken part in solidarity actions, boycotts, fundraising, and campaigns demanding sanctions against Israel.

In Kilkenny, this solidarity has been powerfully expressed. Thousands of men and women, young and old, marched through the city on three occasions during the year. A growing number have also sustained a weekly vigil for Palestine on The Parade every Wednesday evening. To date, 115 weekly vigils have taken place.

Despite this strong public opposition, the Irish Government continues to undermine the Occupied Territories Bill, instead supporting United Nations Security Council Resolution 2803, based on the so-called “Trump 20 Point Plan.” This proposal would place Gaza under international control without Palestinian self-rule and has been widely condemned by international law experts as illegal and dangerous.

People increasingly recognise that this is not only about Palestine, but about the future protection of smaller nations from domination by more powerful states — a reality Ireland understands well from its own history. The marches in Kilkenny have sent a clear message to local and national representatives: we will not stand for genocide. As local councillors prepare to vote on a resolution supporting the Occupied Territories Bill in the new year, it is hoped they will not fail.

High Points of the Year The year featured sustained and creative activism, including 52 weekly Wednesday vigils at the Parade. Highlights included a Palestinian Food Night at St Canice’s Community Hall, a packed public meeting supporting the Occupied Territories Bill with Senator Frances Black, and music and spoken-word fundraisers for Gaza. Nearly 2,000 people marched for Palestine in August. The Gaza Quilt was displayed at Kilkenny Castle, followed by emergency and solidarity marches. Music became central to the campaign, alongside tribute vigils, boycott actions, pickets, and numerous countywide fundraising events for Gaza.

Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Group sends thanks and wishes for a good new year to all and especially those, including community and other solidarity groups, who have helped or take part.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

35

Advertisement

36

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Food & Drink Boost your plate HEALTH As we look ahead to 2026, nutrition experts are highlighting a handful of foods that are set to dominate healthy eating. From gutfriendly staples to nutrient-packed vegetables, these ingredients are not just good for you; they’re versatile, flavourful and easy to include in everyday meals.

Eat with the seasons

1. Beans Beans are making a big comeback in 2026, celebrated for their protein content, fibre and affordability. They’re not just for soups and stews anymore. Kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas and lentils can be blended into dips, tossed into salads or turned into hearty mains. Beans support digestion, help regulate blood sugar and contribute to heart health. They’re also a plant-based protein superstar, making them ideal for anyone looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing nutrition. With so many types and textures available, beans offer endless possibilities for adding flavour, fibre and staying full longer.

Freepik

INGREDIENTS

2. Fibre Fibre is the unsung hero of a healthy diet, and it’s getting the attention it deserves in 2026. Found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes, fibre helps maintain a healthy gut, improves digestion and can even support weight management. Experts emphasise combining soluble and insoluble fibre in your meals to promote overall wellness. From oats at breakfast to roasted vegetables at dinner, it’s easy to boost your daily intake. Fibre-rich foods also stabilise blood sugar levels and can reduce the risk of chronic disease, making them a foundational element of any balanced, longterm eating plan.

Eating seasonally isn’t just a trendy idea, it’s a simple way to enjoy better-tasting, more nutritious food while supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. Ingredients grown in their natural season are harvested at their peak, which means they retain more flavour and nutrients than imported or out-of-season produce.

Seasonal eating also encourages variety in your diet. When you eat what’s fresh each month, your meals naturally rotate through different fla-

vours, textures and nutrients.

It’s an easy way to stay connected to the natural rhythm of the year, while also enjoying the freshest ingredients available locally.

Buying locally grown, seasonal produce reduces the need for long-distance transport and energy-intensive storage, which is better for the environment. It also supports farmers and producers, keeping money in the local economy and helping small businesses thrive.

In January, the options might be more limited than in summer, but there’s still plenty of delicious produce

to enjoy. Root vegetables are at their peak, offering warming, hearty flavours perfect for soups, stews and roasts. Winter greens and hardy vegetables provide freshness and essential vitamins to brighten up midwinter meals.

Seasonal ingredients: January Root vegetables: carrots, parsnips, turnips, swede, beetroot Cabbage family: kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, savoy cabbage Alliums: leeks, onions, garlic Potatoes: a staple all year round (in storage)

Fruits: apples (stored from autumn) Herbs: parsley, thyme, rosemary, chives Other vegetables: celeriac, celery, chicory, leeks Planning meals around seasonal ingredients is simple, satisfying and ensures you get the most from your food in terms of flavour and nutrition.

Even in the quieter months like January, local produce offers variety and inspiration, proving that eating with the seasons isn’t just better for your health, it’s also better for your taste buds.

Fresh, fun drinks to kickstart the year DRINK

3. Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale and Brussels sprouts are topping the list of 2026 superfoods. Packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, they help support immunity, heart health and anti-inflammatory processes. Their versatility is unmatched - you can steam, roast, stir-fry or even enjoy them raw in salads. These vegetables are also associated with cancerpreventive compounds, making them a powerful addition to any diet. Easy to grow or buy locally, cruciferous veggies add texture, flavour and a nutrient punch to meals, encouraging healthier eating habits without compromising on taste.

So, you’ve decided to go dry January. Well done! Taking a break from alcohol is not just a way to give your liver a res, it’s also a chance to explore a whole world of flavours and drinks that can be just as satisfying as your usual tipple.

Non-alcoholic beers and wines have come a long way in recent years. Many brands now offer full-bodied flavours and complexity, so you don’t have to feel like you’re missing out. They’re perfect for pairing with meals or enjoying on a cold winter evening.

Mocktails are another excellent option, and you don’t need complicated recipes to

valeria_aksakova

make them exciting. A squeeze of citrus, a splash of sparkling water, fresh herbs like mint or rosemary or a touch of ginger or cinnamon can transform a

simple drink into something special. Try sparkling elderflower and lemon, or an apple, cinnamon and sparkling water blend for a cosy, seasonal

twist.

Hot drinks can also get a makeover. Swap a glass of mulled wine for a warming herbal infusion with a hint of star anise and orange peel, or create a turmeric latte for something soothing and energising. Even coffee and tea can be jazzed up with spices, frothed milk or non-dairy alternatives to make them feel indulgent without alcohol.

If you’re socialising, nonalcoholic spirits let you enjoy a ‘cocktail’ experience without the booze. Gin, rum and whiskey alternatives now mix perfectly with tonic, soda or juice, letting you enjoy the ritual of a cocktail while staying alcoholfree.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

37

kilkennyobserver.ie

What’s On Your picks for this week TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK.

Keith Barry: Unhinged

What to Watch: Marty Supreme: Timothée Chalamet stars as Marty Mauser, a small-town table tennis player with big ambitions.

In Marty Supreme, he faces tough opponents, funny mishaps, and life’s unexpected twists while chasing his dream. Full of humour, heart, and plenty of energy, this sports comedy-drama is a feelgood ride that’s perfect for a light, entertaining movie night.

LANGTON’S BALLROOM | FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 | 7:30PM ing his craft on stages around completely new material develILLUSION Keith Barry returns to the stage in Kilkenny this January with Unhinged, a brand-new live show marking 25 years of getting inside people’s heads.

Taking place at Langton’s Ballroom on Friday, January 9, the show promises an evening that blends mind-reading, hypnosis, comedy and psychological illusion in a way only Barry can deliver.

Best known as Ireland’s leading mentalist and brainhacker, Barry has spent decades refin-

the world. From sell-out theatre tours at home to headline appearances in Las Vegas, his live shows have built a reputation for being sharp, funny and genuinely unpredictable. Many will also recognise him from his long-running TV work, international talk show appearances, and his role in the Now You See Me film franchise.

Unhinged draws on the highlights of Barry’s career while pushing things further than ever. Alongside familiar favourites, audiences can expect

oped specifically for this tour.

The focus is firmly on live interaction, with volunteers from the audience playing a central role in many of the moments on stage. No two shows are ever the same.

Barry’s work goes beyond traditional magic tricks. Drawing on psychology, suggestion and behavioural science, he explores how easily the human mind can be influenced, often with hilarious and surprising results. His ability to mix big laughs with genuine moments

of disbelief is what keeps audiences coming back.

This show is suitable for ages 14 and up, with under-18s required to be accompanied an adult. As always with a Keith Barry performance, audience participation is optional, but those sitting close should be prepared for anything.

If you enjoy live entertainment that keeps you guessing, makes you laugh and leaves you questioning what you just witnessed, Unhinged is shaping up to be one of the most talkedabout shows of the new year.

Kilkenny Comedy Club THE HOME RULE CLUB | FRIDAY, JANUARY 9 | 8:30 - 11PM for something a bit different. with Paste Magazine calling COMEDY The Kilkenny Comedy Club kicks off the new year with a strong line-up and plenty of laughs in store. Headlining this month is the unmistakable Paul Currie, the Northern Irish stand-up known for his wildly original, boundary-pushing comedy.

An award-winning performer, Currie blends surreal humour with elements of clowning, music, puppetry and off-the-cuff audience interaction. His shows are unpredictable, fast-paced and unlike anything you’ll see on TV, making this a must-see night for comedy fans looking

Joining him on the bill is rising Irish comedy star Sophia Wren.

A familiar face on the country’s biggest comedy stages, she has performed at Electric Picnic and Paddy Power Comedy Festival, opened for Daniel Soss at Vicar Street and enjoyed a sold-out run at the Dublin Fringe. Her debut show Princess Melancholy earned critical praise, followed by a successful Edinburgh Fringe run in 2025.

Also appearing is Síomha Hennessy, who jokingly describes herself as “Ireland’s oldest and least famous pop star”.

Her sharp, distinctive comedy has earned glowing reviews,

her work “a complete standout hour”.

Keeping the night running smoothly is MC Shannon Basso

Gaule, bringing his trademark energy and wit to the stage.

A great way to start the comedy calendar in Kilkenny.

Tickets: €15

What to Read: Midwinter: A Journey Through a Season - Michael Harding reflects on the quiet, often bleak months of winter from a flickering fireside.

Through moments of loss, memories and a young boy’s story, he explores how hope can emerge even in the darkest days. It’s a thoughtful, poetic look at winter, ageing, love and light after long nights.

What to Stream: Cover Up - Netflix documentary about Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Seymour Hersh, who spent decades exposing major government scandals from the Vietnam War to Abu Ghraib prison. With interviews, archival footage and rare notes, the film shows how one reporter’s persistence shaped how we understand truth and power.

What to Listen To: In The Dark - If you’re into true-crime podcasts, Blood Relatives is worth a listen. Hosted by The New Yorker writer Heidi Blake, this six-part series from In the Dark re-examines the infamous 1985 Whitehouse Farm murders in England. Using new interviews and evidence files, it digs into questions about the original conviction and whether justice was really served.

What to Play: Death Howl players take on the role of Ro, a grieving mother who ventures into a haunting spirit world to bring her child back. This unique blend of tactical, turn-based combat and deck-building strategy combines grim biomes and challenging foes with a moving story about loss and resilience.

Currently available on PC, it’s coming to consoles in early 2026.

38

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews

Winning captain of the Aaron Molloy Memorial Soccer Tournament Paddy Delaney receives the trophy from Paul Molloy. Also in picture are Barry Lawlor, David Burke, Ronan Buckley, Conor Kelly and Conor Heary.

NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD

Finalists of O’Loughlin Gaels Christmas Handball Tournament Callum Burke, Noah Manogue, Sean Morrissey and Matty Murphy.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS Happy New Year O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club wishes a Happy New Year to all members, players, coaches, volunteers, supporters, sponsors and the wider community.

Thank you to everyone who has given their time, energy, and support to O’Loughlin Gaels throughout the last year, on and off the field.

Your commitment keeps our club strong.

Athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh go léir!

UNDER ONE BANNER Following a very successful launch the book “Under One Banner” which tells the story of O’Loughlin Gaels from its formation to the current day is receiving a very positive response from readers. The book is available to purchase at McCarthy’s SuperValu, JJ Cullen Butchers, Tower and Castle, Nolans Ardnore, The Bookcentre, Freshco, Khan’s Bookshop and Brennans Bar, Johnswell. The book is also on sale from the O’Loughlin Gaels Club bar.

CHRISTMAS HANDBALL TOURNAMENT The annual O’Loughlin’s Christmas Handball Tournament held on December 21st was well attended. After three hours of great handball finalists Noah Manogue and Callum Burke

took on Sean Morrissey and Matty Murphy. All four players gave a brilliant display in the final.

Eventually it was Noah and Callum who took the honours. Well done to all who participated and to organiser John Morrissey.

MEMORIAL SOCCER TOURNAMENT The 2025 Aaron Molloy Memorial 7-a-side soccer tournament took place on December 27th at Freebooters facility. After a great morning’s fun the competition was won by Paddy Delaney’s team. Over €1000 was raised for Teach Tom charity. Thanks to Freebooters for the use of their facilities. Well done and thanks to everyone who participated.

CLUB LOTTO There is no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated December 23rd. The numbers drawn were 19, 20, 23 and 27. The bonus number was 18.

Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Thank you for your continued support.

Promotors Draw (€40 each) 1. Dan O’Driscoll. 2.

Michael Dreeling c/o P Leydon. 3. F. Kavanagh c/o G Buckley. 4. Claire Mahony. 5. Peggy Sue c/o B Murphy. 6. Johnny Gleeson c/o B Maher.

7. Paddy Leydon. 8. Chris McGrath c/o Online. 9.

Amy Barry c/o Online. 10. John and Olivia Collins c/o Online. Happy New Year to all our club lotto players and promoters.

WED Congratulations and best wishes go out to Seamus Hayes, Threecastles and Shauneen Brady from Dungiven who were married on 20th December in Kilkenny, with a reception afterwards in Hotel Kilkenny. Seamus was an ardent member of St. Lachtains hurling team over the years before he emigrated to Australia a number of years ago and he and Shauneen came back to Kilkenny for their marriage. The couple will return to Australia in the new year and are wished all the very best in their newly married life together.

BOXING Urlingford/Freshford boxing club had great success recently in the Athy National Cup with four of their boxers entered in the competitions they came away with 3 gold and one silver. John Delaney won gold in the 60kg while Michael Delaney won in the 44kg section. Danny Ryan took gold in the 33kg while Willie Delaney won silver in the 42 kg. It has been a very productive year for the club with 2 all Ireland winners and the Limerick international cup winners.

BIRTHDAY BOY Special birthday wishes goes out to local man John Guinan who celebrated a very special birthday last week. John marked the occasion with family and friends at surprise get together in Kavanaghs Bar on Sunday evening last.

DEATHS The death took place recently of Ann Dooley late of Ashtown, Dublin and formerly of Kilkenny Road Freshford. The deceased was a member of well-known local family and her passing caused widespread sorrow and regret. Funeral mass took place in Our Lady help of Christians Church, Navan Road followed by cremation in Glasnevin Crematorium chapel. She is mourned by her husband Michael, sons, daughter, grandson, daughters in law and partners, sisters, brothers and extended family to whom sympathy is extended.

The death took place also before Christmas of Fr. Tom McGree late of Prague House Freshford and formerly from Lisdowney. Fr. McGree was retired and served for many years in Bunbury Australia and after his return home he served in the Diocese of Ossory. He was pastoral director on many trips over the years to Lourdes, Fatima

Medjugorje and San Giovani. His funeral mass took place in St.Brigid’s Church Lisdowney followed by burial in the grounds of the church. He is mourned by his brothers, sisters, Bishop and priests of the diocese of Ossory, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces and extended family and many friends to whom sympathy is extended.

GAA Congratulations to two young local hurlers James O’Connor and Jerry Bergin who were part of the Kildalton College team who won the All Ireland final recently when they defeated Clonakilty college. Teagasc Kildalton College won the game on a final score of 3-17 to 0-20. Jerry was joint captain and was presented the cup by St.Lachtain’s lady Ann Marie Butler.

COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community alert remind you that membership is now due and you can contact any Committee member if you want to join the group or pay your membership.

SOCCER Freshford Town annual St. Stephen’s day soccer tournament took place at the Sportsfield at Woodview on Friday last with 16 teams taking part. In the semi final Liam Hayes’s team beat Colin McGree’s team on penalties and the second semi final saw Eoin Kenny’s team defeat Jordan Burke’s side on penalties also the Lisdowney side led by Eoin Kenny went on to defeat Liam Hayes’s side in the final on a score of 4-2. The cup was presented by members of the Phelan family and is in memory of the late Liam (Ducks) Phelan who himself was a talented footballer and member of Freshford town Junior side for many years. Thanks go to all those who helped organise the event and to those who donated in any way to this great event.

PRESENTATION The Club held a cabaret and presentation to winners later that night in Kavanaghs Bar and special presentation was made was made by Eoin Morrissey on behalf of the club to local man Gary Barnaville for his commitment and service to the club. Gary ran the academy each Saturday morning for youngsters starting to play soccer from five years upwards for almost four decades and he was manager of very successful underage teams over the years with his famous U12 squad winning the double. Gary thanked the club for their kind gesture and said he enjoyed his time with the youngsters over the years and was glad to be able to give something to the local club and hopes the academy will continue into the future.

SAFETY FIRST

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

39

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes thriving. If you’re interested in getting involved, please call 056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon.

MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610 JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB HAPPY NEW YEAR Wishing a Happy New Year for 2026 to all club members, supporters and the wider St. Patrick’s parish community as 2025 draws to a close. With the new season just around the corner we send best wishes to all our teams, Hurling, Camogie and Football together with all selectors and the large number of volunteers who give their time to ensure the smooth running of club affairs throughout the year. ‘Go mbeidh bliain nua rathúil agus shíochánta agat go léir’ STEPHEN’S DAY FUN RUN Congratulations to the organising committee for the successful running of the annual Christmas fun run. The event, which was run in ideal, if chilly, conditions, raised a total of €2,180 which will be split on a 50/50 basis between the club and Alzheimer’s Kilkenny. The ‘fun’ event also has a competitive edge, for some, and the following are the winners in the various categories:

Under 14 - 5km Girls: Molly Ann Phelan 24:30.

Boys: James Butler 23:15. Adults 5kWomen: Anna Bergin 22:50. Men: James Kelsey 19:31.

Adults - 10km. Women: Ann Brennan 41:43. Men: Ciarán O’ Sullivan 37:03 NEW YEARS EVE Social club officer Mark Noonan advises that musician, Mick Walsh, will provide the festive entertainment on New Years Night to welcome in 2026. All are welcome.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were: 6, 7, 12, 17. There was no winner. Consolation prize €40 to Mary Fogarty, Anne Power, Phyl Brennan, Benny c/o Playwright, Alison Kehoe.

BENNETTSBRIDGE CHRISTMAS IN CHURCH Christmas was observed in the traditional manner in both churches. Fr Duggan welcomed everyone and thanked all who helped in any way for Christmas and during the year. The crib was the centre piece and there was a large attendance at all masses. The altars were beautifully decorated with floral displays. The choir sang throughout and the age-old carols made the ceremonies special. Organist for both churches was Christine O’Neill.

In Tullaherin, organist Mollie Cahalane was given a special presentation to acknowledge her tremendous contribution of over forty years providing music in church, in Tullaherin and in later years in St Bennett’s Church. Fr Duggan thanked Mollie and wished her well in her retirement.

Richard Cody made her a presentation on behalf

Medal winners with their coaches.

The recent development of a car park at Freshford Cemetery was a most welcome project for people wishing to visit the graves of their loved ones. Open every day it will facilitate safe entry and exiting for all who wish to park there.

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

OUTREACH CENTRE Cosh Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr.Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941 BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall at7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are also held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge.

Those interested are most welcome to attend, for further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 FOROIGE Freshford Foroige youth club is held each Monday evening at the Community Hall. New members are very welcome and they are also looking for leaders PARISH NEWS Mass times for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 730pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1, 2, 3 basis. Weekly masses

Monday 9.30am Kilmanagh, Tuesday and Friday –Freshford -9.30am and Thursday –Tullaroan at 9.30am.

RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio NEWSLETTER 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 placed by phoning the office during hours of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla.

VISITS Fr. Mark is happy to visit the sick and if you would like to receive a visit from Fr. Mark, you can contact him by phone or through the parish office.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4pm and is a welcoming hub in the village. They’re always happy to see more people on both sides of the counter, so why not drop in to support your local café, meet a friend, enjoy a chat, and savour some delicious homemade food? Along with great refreshments, The Loop hosts a variety of community activities that bring neighbours together. The café is also seeking volunteers to help keep these services

Diane with Christmas Floral display by Anne Marie Mahon for Gathering Group

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

40

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Community & GAA Notes

Birthday celebration for Anne Ryan at Gathering Group

of Tullaherin and Bennettsbridge choirs.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Carmel Egan, Kilfane on the death of her sister, Teresa in UHL recently.

Predeceased by her parents Micheál and Kathleen. She is survived by her husband Michael (Mick), children Sarah, Erika and Matthew, daughter in law Arlena, granddaughter Lily, brothers Patrick and Michael, sisters Carmel and Bridget, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. Reposal was at Kennedy’s Funeral Home, Ennis, Requiem Mass was celebrated at Barefield Church followed by cremation service in Shannon.

MENS SHED The Mens Shed had a brilliant Christmas Lunch in Hotel Kilkenny and were overwhelmed with the service and attention from the staff. A great time was had by all and thanks went to the organisers.

WOMENS CHRISTMAS Members of the Art Group are looking forward to celebrating Women’s Christmas in Marion Murphy’s home.

LOTTO The Christmas Lotto results, no winner of Jackpot, Numbers, 10, 13, 20, 26. Jackpot still there for the taking, €12,000.00. Under our licence commitment a new jackpot has commenced and will continue to build up until the existing one is won. Consolation prizes, Say again c/o Fr Duggan, Leanne Simpson, c/o The Ring, Teresa Doran, Hillview, Iris Cleere, Hillview, S and P Connery, Norewood Heights, Patrick O’Neill, Ballyreddin, Belle c/o Olive Morrin.

CAMOGIE

Table Centre pieces by Anne Marie Mahon at Gathering Group Christmas Meetin

Congratulations to our players who have been selected for this year’s Kilkenny County Camogie Development Squads. The club is very proud to have representatives at county level. U14s Lily, Lucy and Lily Mae, U 15s Leah, U16s Katy, Amy and Mia, U 17s Lauren, Minor Erin and Holly.

NEW CAMOGIE OFFICERS Officers elected for 2026 are as follows, Chairperson, Jonathan Meighan, vice Chairperson, Deirdre Dowling, Secretary, Lisa Cummins, Treasurer, Rosemary Hennessy, Children’s Welfare Officer, Abby Wemyss, PRO, Lisa Meighan, Registrar, Bogdan, County Board Rep, Luci Brennan, Coaching Co-ordinator, John Drea. Additional committee members have also been elected and all are looking forward to a successful season in 2026.

GAA All at Bennettsbridge GAA would like to offer all our members, supporters and their families a happy and peaceful new year. Many thanks to all who supported our club in any capacity in 2025, your support is greatly appreciated.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN The Bennettsbridge GAA Pitch signage campaign continues on its very successful way. 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.

SPLIT THE POT The Christmas draw results were as follows, David Blanchfield who won 317 euro, Sam Carroll, Christmas hamper, Jim Moran, Voucher from Bridgeside Butchers, Darragh O’Gorman, 30 euro, Ned Ryan (Blackwell) book token and Conor Carroll, 20 euro. Thanks to all for the

continued support throughout 2025 and we look forward to the first 2026 draw on January 9th.

SAINT MARY’S PARISH A THOUGHT What trust God had to come to the world in the form of an infant. As we stand before the crib let us marvel at the belief God has in us – he allowed two normal people, Mary and Jospeh, to care for, to raise, to educate and to guide his son in our world. I think of all those hidden years when Jesus was living in the midst of his friends and family. I think of all those he interacted with, all those who shaped him. Our influence on others should never be underestimated – walk gently with those you encounter in life – we don’t know where they have come from and we certainly don’t know where they are going. Fr Dermot WEEKLY COLLECTIONS Envelopes: €765.00, Baskets €1,507.89. Your support of the parish is greatly appreciated.

PILGRIMAGE Medjugorje pilgrimage May 27th 2026, 7 nights, €949 pps (€849 if paid in full by Nov 3rd). Staying in Hotel Leone (half board). Spiritual Director Fr Ted Sheehan. Group Leader Sean O’Shaughnessy 0862959380 / medjugorjecork@icloud.com or contact JWT on 01 2410800.

CATHEDRAL CAFE Have you been to the Cafe that is re-opened here at the Cathedral. They are open each Saturday and Sunday and they are being well supported - why not stop down after Mass or the next weekend when you are in town. Profits there

support the work of Teac Tom and those working there always have a smile and a warm welcome for visitors.

LAST MASS Closing Mass for the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 in the Diocese of Ossory – Sunday, 4th January 2026. Theme: Anchored in Hope. “Hope in the Lord” (Psalm 27:14) As agreed at the Irish Episcopal Conference, the closing celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 will take place in each Diocese on Sunday, 4th January 2026. Bishop Niall will celebrate the closing Mass in Ossory on Sunday, 4th January 2026 in St Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30 p.m. There will be an opportunity to share in some conversation and light refreshments afterwards in the Chapter House. All are welcome.

Please know that the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate the Closing Mass for the Jubilee Year in St Peter’s Square on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, The Feast of the Epiphany. Wishing you all a blessed and Holy Christmas.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE - A PILGRIMAGE EXPLORING GOD’S GIFTS Next year the Adult Faith Development Group are holding a pilgrimage to Northern Italy (Padua, Venice and Bologna) March 20th-26th exploring faith by means of reflecting upon some of the many wonderful pieces of art scattered throughout these cities. Italy is blessed with a remarkable array of religious art - frescos, paintings, sculptures, mosaics and stuccos. This pilgrimage will explore the religious and catechetical meaning of some of these masterpieces. Details in parishes on posters or by email afd@ossory.ie or call 057 93 55050. Retreat and Ministry of Heal-

We Wewelcome welcomeall allGAA GAAClub Cluband andCommunity Communitynotes notesfor forpublication publicationin inThe TheKilkenny KilkennyObserver Observeremail emailto tosales@kilkennyobserver.ie sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

41

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes ing St. Mary’s Parish Church, Irishtown, Clonmel, Co.Tipperary Eircode E91FD28, Saturday January 10th morning 10.00a.m-1.00p.m and afternoon 3.00p.m -5.30p.m and Sunday 11th at 3.00p.m - 7.30p.m, 2026. Led by international Healing Priest Fr. Rozo Palić, also beautiful International Music worship team. Bring the sick, family, and friends. All are welcome. For further details contact: Patricia 089 9466193 or Imelda 089 9558283.

ROTA Readers Next Weekend 11.00am – D. Butler, 5.30pm – M. Finnegan. Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am – B. Quinn, D. Quinn, N. Molloy: 5.30pm - T. Lawlor, B. Cagney.

YOUR PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPS Sr Betty Cagney, Martina Lawlor. Contact: safeguardingstmarys@ossory.ie If you, or anyone you know, has a Safeguarding concern please contact: Diocesan Director of Safeguarding and Designated Liaison Person, DLP, Ailish Higgins at 087 8021633. TUSLA: Kilkenny 052 6177302; Laois/Offaly 044 9353997; Waterford 053 9198201. An Garda Síochána: 1800 555 222 or your local Garda Station. Towards Healing Helpline: 1800 313416 www.towardshealing.ie. Towards Peace Helpline: 01 5053028 www. towardspeace.ie Please consult the Diocesan website (www.ossory.ie) for all relevant documents and policies.

WANT TO BE FRIENDS Invite your family members to support the Cathedral FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL at www. stmaryscathedal.ie/friends BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL LIGHT UP THE NIGHT 2025 The North Kilkenny Truck and Tractor Run, known as Light Up the Night, has been running successfully since 2016 and had grown into a much-anticipated annual occasion. The event was established as a suicide awareness campaign, and over the years it had continued to evolve in both scale and significance. The chairperson of the committee, Freddie Farrell, had been the driving force behind the initiative since its inception, showing unwavering commitment and leadership in guiding the event forward each year.

Since the beginning of the campaign, many changes had come about, reflecting the dedication and vision of the organising committee.

What had originally started as an awareness initiative had gradually become a recognised social event on the New Year’s Eve calendar. Despite this growth, the core purpose of promoting awareness and helping to remove stigma had remained central to the event’s identity. The committee believed that the relaxed and inclusive atmosphere had encouraged open conversation and community connection, which had been key to its continued success.

On the day of the run, tractors, both new and vintage, had assembled from 1 p.m. in Hollands Yard, Ballyragget, by kind permission of the Holland family. At the same time, trucks had gathered in Cillin Hill, creating a striking display as vehicles prepared for the evening’s procession.

Participants and spectators alike had admired the effort put into decorating and lighting the vehicles.

That year, there had been no change to the established routes, allowing communities along the way to once again enjoy the familiar spectacle. The event had stood as a powerful example of community spirit, solidarity, and shared purpose across North Kilkenny.

WREN BOYS Many thanks were extended to everyone who supported the Wren Boys and their fundraiser held on St Stephen’s Day in aid of the O’Gorman Home. The event was a wonderful success and demonstrated the strong sense of community spirit and generosity that exists locally. Great credit was due to all members of the Wren group for their time, effort, and enthusiasm on the day.

In particular, special recognition was given to the organiser, Ollie Holohan, whose dedication and hard work played a key role in ensuring the fundraiser was so well run and highly successful.

MASSIVE THANKS Many thanks to all who attended the Christmas masses in Ballyouskill and Ballyragget celebrated

by Fr Maher Fr Bowe and Fr Muldowney, and to all who helped in anyway: A big thank you must go to Stephen and Betty Delaney who have cared for the church’s flowers for the past number of years and are taking a well-earned retirement

from same. Best wishes are sent to them both and their families.

JOHNSTOWN MR. DAVID HICKEY R.I.P. David (Davy) died peacefully at the ICU, St. Luke’ Hospital following an accident. Beloved husband of Marie of over 58 years and loving Dad to Derek, Sinead and Enid. He will be sadly missed by his loving family, grandchild Galen, daughter in law Melina, Sinead’s partner Conor, brothers Harold and Frankie, sisters Barbra, Lucy and Martha (deceased). Davy was laid to rest in Johnstown Cemetery after Requiem Mass in St. Kieran’s Church.

FR. TOM McGREE RIP Fr. Mc Gree died peacefully at the Beacon Hospital, Dublin. Fr. Tom spent most of his priesthood in the Diocese of Bunbury, Australia before returning to Ossory in his later years. After his retirement from Cullohill he celebrated Mass each Tuesday and Thursday in St. Kieran’s Church, Johnstown until his illness dictated otherwise.

He will be greatly missed by his sisters Joan and Anne, brothers Joe, Paddy, Jimmy and Michael, extended family, Bishop Coll and the priests of the diocese and his many parishioners. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Lisdowney and he was laid to rest in the adjoining graveyard. (his native parish).

HAPPY VALLEY TRACTOR /TRUCK RUN The event took place on New Year’s Eve in aid of Cois Nore and had received tremendous support from the local community and beyond.

Registration had opened at 12 noon at Norton Engineering Yard, where participants and supporters had gathered from early in the day. There was a strong sense of goodwill and generosity, with many people eager to contribute to such a worthy cause. A monster raffle had been held, featuring an impressive range of prizes, along with a lively auction that attracted plenty of interest and bidding throughout the event. These activities had played a significant role in raising vital funds while also creating an enjoyable and social atmosphere for everyone involved.

A special highlight of the day had been the presence of guest speaker Kieran Cuddihy from Liveline, whose attendance had added greatly to the occasion. Overall, the event had been a great success, and the support shown had been deeply appreciated in helping Cois Nore continue its important work.

THE MILL CENTRE There will be joy to behold when the Mill Centre reopens on Monday January 5th.

WELLBEING WALK AND TALK Kilkenny leader partnership invites you to come along and join in “ walk and talk” on January 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th. Meet at 10am inside Urlingford GAA pitch, followed by tea and chat at Exit 4 Hub. Walk at your own pace and meet people in a friendly space. Contact Sarah Bowden at 0860843446 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.

IN OUR HANDS “Preserving Thurles Cathedral” fundraising campaign to support the re-roofing project by donating towards the cost of the slates. Brochures in Church porches.

YEARLY ENVELOPES FOR 2026 These have been distributed to all houses in the parish at the moment. If you haven’t received a box to date and wish to receive one please contact the parish council.

GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. We had a full hall and it was great to see some extra people coming from the parish.

CHRISTMAS DRAW The Hall Committee would like to thank everyone who supported the Christmas Draw on Sunday 21st December in aid of the Community Hall. The support of each household in the parish for the purchase of the tickets for the Christmas Draw exceeded all expectations. We also appreciated the donations from the local

businesses and the local households who gave items to make up the hampers and prizes for the draw. A sincere thanks to everyone who helped in any way to make the draw a success. 1st PrizeClement Gleeson, Graigue, 2nd Prize - Ben Lawless, Garryclough, 3rd Prize- Jennifer Ryan c/o Gortnahoe Playschool, 4th Prize- James Tobin, Coalbrook and 5th Prize- Siobhan Norton, Coole.

Other prize winners are all listed on the noticeboard in the Community Hall.

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 Thomas and Hannah Maher, Knockboy who won €100 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 January is in aid of Ballysloe NS. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CORA FITZPATRICK RIP The death has occurred of Cora Fitzpatrick (née Power), Fennor, Gortnahoe, Thurles and formerly 22 Mitchell Street, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, December 24th, peacefully at home in the presence of her family. Predeceased by her parents James and Nora and brother Paddy. Sadly missed and remembered with love by her husband Edmond, sons David and John, daughter Emma, daughters-in-law Alison and Miriam, son-in-law John, grandchildren Lily, Michael, James, Simon, Robert, Peter, Ruairí and Èabha, brother Michael, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Cora reposed at Doyle’s funeral home Urlingford last Saturday evening December 27th. Removal took place from her residence last Sunday to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in Fennor Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

MARY FENNELLY RIP The death has occurred of Mary Fennelly, Boulick, Gortnahoe, Thurles. Mary entered Eternal Life in the wonderful care of nurses and staff of Fennor Hill Care Facility Urlingford, on Saturday December 20th. Predeceased by her parents, husband Martin, brother Paddy and her dear friend, her sister-in-law Kitty. Sadly missed by her eight sons, Michael, Pat, Martin, J.J., Paschal, Fintan, Fr. Seàn and Dermot, her daughters-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister Kathleen (Roberts) and all who were saddened upon her passing. Mary reposed at Doyle’s funeral home Urlingford on Monday December 22nd. Removal took place to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe for funeral Mass on Tuesday 23rd. Followed by burial afterwards in Boulick graveyard.May she rest in peace.

HUGH LONG RIP The death has occurred of Hugh (Aodh) Long, Togher Crescent, Urlingford, and formerly St. Brendan’s Avenue, Coolock, Co. Dublin, December 22nd, unexpectedly but peacefully at his residence. Predeceased by his parents Hugh and Josephine, brothers and sisters Eamon, Mary, Sally, Josephine and baby Patricia. Sadly missed and remembered with love his heartbroken wife Patricia, his adored family Jennifer, David, Shirley and Hugh, daughters-in-law Lorna and Stacy, sons-in-law John and David, grandchildren Andrew, Séan, Aaron, Alexander, Carolyn, Brian, Liam, Alex and Jordan, sisters Noreen and Alice, brothers Jimmy-Joe and Tommy, brothers-inlaw, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends and his precious dog Poppy. Hugh reposed at Doyle’s funeral home Urlingford on Tuesday evening December 23rd. Removal took place from his residence on Christmas Eve to the Church of the Assumption, Urlingford arriving for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in the Good Shepherd Cemetery, Gortnahoe. May he rest in peace.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Aghaviller Parish: Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m.

Vigil - Saturday 3rd. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 4th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Vigil - Saturday 3rd. at 6.30p.m. Saturday 3rd. Feast of The Holy Name

of Jesus ROTA (SECOND SUNDAY OF CHRISTMAS) Readers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Catherina Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m.

Tommy Murphy: Sunday 10.00a.m Noreen Kenneally. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace: Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cahill, Sunday 10.00a.m.

Ann Power.

CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS Envelopes for your Christmas Offerings 2025 may be collected in the Church Porch, and your contributions may be handed in during the coming weeks: or you may wish to donate directly – Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). Many thanks for all your support and contributions during the past year. Roman Catholic Diocese and Parishes of Ossory – Registered Charity No. 20015831 THANKS Many thanks to all the Children; Parents; Teachers; Musicians; Choirs; Readers; Eucharistic Ministers; Servers and others who prepared the Christmas Masses: and to all who cleaned and decorated the Churches in the Parish for the Christmas Season and throughout the year.

Thanks to all who erected the Cribs; donated flowers and Christmas trees etc. A sincere thank you and greatly appreciated.

YEAR OF HOPE The Closing Mass for the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 in the Diocese of Ossory will be celebrated on Sunday, 4th January 2026 in St Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30p.m. Theme: Anchored in Hope.

“Hope in the Lord” (Psalm 27:14) As agreed at the Irish Episcopal Conference, the closing celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 will take place in each Diocese on Sunday, 4th January 2026. Bishop Niall will celebrate the closing Mass in Ossory on Sunday. There will be an opportunity to share in some conversation and light refreshments afterwards in the Chapter House.

All are very welcome.

Please know that the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate the Closing Mass for the Jubilee Year in St Peter’s Square on Tuesday, 6th January 2026, The Feast of the Epiphany.

LOTTO Many thanks to the Lotto Promoters and Supporters for their committed and ongoing support of the weekly Lotto. All funds generated are returned through prizes and by dividends to Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G.A.A. Club.

These funds are critical to the development of all our facilities STONEYFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT Stoneyford Active Retirement Group is a group of people from Stoneyford and its environs. It is open to anyone who wishes to join. It is mainly made up of retirees but that is not a requirement.

Membership is €20.00 for the year. We run a wide variety of activities in the Community Centre (yoga, bowls, cards, etc.). We regularly have classes (flower arranging, art, pottery, jewellery making, beading, to name but a few). We also have outings to theatres, houses, gardens and museums. Members are free to make suggestions for activities, classes or outings and if enough people are interested, we will do our best to accommodate them. We have meetings on the first Wednesday of the month, which includes refreshments. At some of our meetings, we will have a guest speaker. Our next meeting is in the Community Centre, Stoneyford on the 7th of January at 2.30p.m. and a welcome for all.

GOAL MILE Carrickshock G.A.A. proudly hosted the ‘GOAL MILE’ at Hugginstown G.A.A. Pitch on Sunday, December 28th, at 4.00 p.m. The event marked a wonderful celebration of the club’s walkway and brought the local community together for a worthy cause. Members, supporters, families, and friends turned out in great numbers, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the evening. Participants of all ages took part, whether walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the sense of togetherness that the occasion provided. The initiative successfully raised much-needed funds for GOAL, supporting its vital humanitarian work both at home and abroad.

The club was delighted with the level of support shown and sincerely thanked everyone who attended, donated, or helped with the organisation of the event. The GOAL MILE was a great success and reflected the strong community spirit at the heart of Carrickshock G.A.A.

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

42

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurlng matters - Preview

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Dioralyte Walsh Cup Westmeath vs Kilkenny Sunday, 1:30pm Breedon Kevin Molloy Park, The Downs Christmas 2025 is now in the rear-view mirror.

Our club sides have exited their various championships, and all eyes are now firmly focused on the return of intercounty hurling in the form of the 2026 Dioralyte Walsh Cup which gets underway this weekend. The preseason competition which returns after a brief hiatus gives the management a chance to look at the vast crop of players available for selection on Noreside, and that alone is a good reason to try and progress in the tournament.

Derek Lyng, embarking on another 2-year term as Cats senior boss, has added to his backroom team with the addition of Eddie Brennan and Niall Corcoran who will work alongside the Emerald’s clubman and assistants, Peter O’Donovan and Michael Rice. The most recent addition sees former Limerick goalkeeping coach Timmy Houlihan join the Kilkenny setup. The Adare man will work with the likes of Eoin Murphy, Aidan Tallis and Dean Mason as he joins the crusade to end the Liam MacCarthy drought on Noreside. The appointment of eight-time All-Ireland winner Brennan has been widely applauded and no doubt the attacking talent in black and amber will relish the input from the Graigue Ballycallan legend. Former Dublin hurler, Niall Corcoran has previously worked with Brennan, during a spell with Laois, where they helped mastermind a Joe McDonagh triumph in 2019.

Ahead of the festive period, Kilkenny had a senior challenge game with All-Ireland champions Tipperary which was held to raise much-needed funds for the North Tipp branch of Mary’s Meals Ireland.

Moyne Templetuohy hosted the event which saw managers Lyng and Cahill name mostly experimental line-ups for the encounter.

Conditions were far from ideal, pure winter weather, wind, rain, biting temperatures, but credit to both sides for delivering despite the elements. I wouldn’t have imagined that Kilkenny had done much training on playing with 14 men for most of the contest, but that’s exactly what they had to do, following the dismissal of James Walsh in the 13th minute. To be honest the Kilmacow player didn’t really leave Silvermines whistler Conor Doyle with any other option than flashing the colour red after a hard head-high shoulder on Ray McCormack which saw the Borris-Ileigh man withdrawn from the game. Indeed, Walsh had struck his side’s first major just a few minutes earlier to put Derek Lyng’s

Another year, another chance

Aidan Tallis could get the nod as netminder on Sunday

Cats get underway with Walsh Cup clash

charges into an early 1-2 to 0-1 lead. The conditions, coupled with a numerical advantage, saw Tipp pull away after the interval, having clawed back the Cats halftime lead of five points and win out by nine at the long whistle.

The Noresiders were captained

by Shamrocks Ballyhale’s Darragh Corcoran and had Eoin Murphy’s deputy, Aidan Tallis in goals.

Thomastown’s Luke Connellan was in attack while Emerald’s Killian Doyle was the only other starter that would have featured in the stripes last season, while extended panel member Marty Murphy of Tullogher Rosbercon struck a lovely goal just ahead of the short whistle.

It was good to see Glenmore duo, Cathal Beirne and Billy Reid get minutes, while Erins Own’s Michael Brennan and Conor McMahon also represented their club well in the black and amber.

That little taster sets it up nicely for the Walsh Cup clash with Westmeath on Sunday. At the

Darragh Corcoran at home in the Stripes!

time of writing, the starting XV isn’t known, but expect to see the manager try some players out ahead of what will be a crucial National League campaign that kicks off the last weekend of January, with Offaly the visitors to UPMC Nowlan Park.

Our lads hit the road and head for Breedon Kevin Molloy Park this weekend to take on the challenge of Westmeath. Kevin O’Brien was appointed as the new manager of

the Lake County side, following Seoirse Bulfin’s decision to step down after just one season at the helm. Clonkill clubman O’Brien will attempt to breathe new life into the maroon clad side, having seen them relegated to Division 2 of the league and needing a win over Kerry to secure their Joe McDonagh Cup status.

Having previously managed the county U20’s, O’Brien tasted

Swapping stripes Anthony Ireland Wall could feature in Walsh Cup

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

43

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters - Preview Killian Doyle will hope for Walsh Cup minutes

success with his own club, having led Clonkill to back-to-back titles in 2018 and ‘19. It will be viewed as somewhat of a rebuilding job following the retirement of several experienced members of the Westmeath panel. Tommy Doyle and Darragh Clinton announced their departures while last season’s captain, Robbie Greville followed suite in late November. Raharney man Greville started out with the county in 2011 and was a key cog in the machine that lifted the Joe McDonagh Cup and went on to shock Wexford in the Leinster Championship a couple of seasons ago.

Others not returning include Niall Mitchell, Aaron Craig and Davy Glennon. O’Brien knows the juvenile scene in the Lake County and had added a number of younger players to his panel, including Conor Shaw, Darragh Egerton and Josh Coll. Naoise McKenna and Morgan Gavigan are returning to the maroon and will add much needed talent and experience to the squad.

For Derek Lyng and his backroom team, Sunday’s clash with Westmeath will see them run their eyes over a number of players, as they seek to build a panel to compete in the 2026 National League. While Eoin Murphy competed in the hurlingshinty match, it is unlikely that the Glenmore man will feature in the pre-season tournament.

Netminder duties are likely to be shared between Lisdowney’s Aidan Tallis and Shamrocks Dean Mason.

With Huw Lawlor reported to be off on his travels, it will be interesting to see who deputises for the O’Loughlin’s man, undoubtably one of the finest full backs on the island, Dicksboro’s Padraic Moylan could well be the most suited to the role.

Another player who is likely to miss a good chunk of the season is Billy Ryan, who is also rumored to be on far away shores. The Graigue Ballycallan man had what many believe to have been his best season in the black and amber in 2025, and his energy and all action style will be missed by the Cats. Some of Billy’s clubmates could feature, Aaron McEvoy and Jeff Neary; two very capable young stickmen could rack up some minutes during the Walsh Cup. Killian Doyle and Eoghan Lyng are two others that will hope for a chance to impress the management ahead of the league.

Danesfort, fresh from losing their Intermediate semi-final, are a side that possess some quality young hurlers. Daire O’Neill, Des Dunne and Anthony Ireland Wall are a trio of talented hurlers that will be hoping to earn senior stripes in 2026. The Village’s Cian Kenny, who had a great season with club and county, could add some experience to the starting XV, and his versatility is a useful weapon. As per tradition, the captain of the Senior side comes from the County champions, so Darragh Corcoran may get the honor again come Sunday. It is highly likely that the Reid brothers will be back in the stripes in 2026, Richie may make an earlier appearance than older sibling TJ, more captain material there. Despite losing the county final to Ballyhale, O’Loughlin Gaels will no doubt provide a few bodies to the Kilkenny squad. Former county skipper Paddy Deegan, Mikey Butler, Jordan Molloy and Luke Hogan will be chomping at the bit to return to the county setup.

We will perhaps know more after Sunday’s game with Westmeath, but we go into 2026 with the hope that Derek Lyng and co. can deliver what everyone on Noreside craves, silverware in the form of the Liam MacCarthy Cup, but for now we will concentrate on the Walsh Cup and upcoming league campaign. Ádh mór to all involved with Kilkenny’s drive for success this season.

44

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I David McCormick intend to apply for planning permission to construct an extension to the side and front of an existing dwelling, garage, new domestic splayed entrance and driveway and all associated site development works at Curraghmore, Slieverue, 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 authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: David McCormick.

We, Martin, Frances and Ricky Lyng, Upper Carrenroe, The Rower, Co. Kilkenny, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for permission for an extension to an existing slatted tank, construction of a new slatted tank and associated site works at Upper Carrenroe, The Rower, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Dempsey Agri

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, John and Padhraic Tynan, Ballycuddihy, Kilmanagh, Co Kilkenny intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for permission for development of cattle shed over slatted tank, concrete apron and associated site works necessary to facilitate the proposed development at Ballycuddihy, Kilmanagh, Co Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Dempsey Agri

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Jim Phelan and Siobhan Farrell for full planning permission to construct a bungalow, garage, entrance onto laneway, wastewater treatment system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Ennisnag, Stoneyford, 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.

056 777 1463

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

45

kilkennyobserver.ie

Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PATRICK RYAN 3RD ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Patrick, late of Kilkenny and Tramore, Co. Waterford whose 3rd Anniversary occurs at this time R.I.P Sadly missed Your cousin Anne Will those who think of Patrick today A little prayer to Jesus say

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.OW.

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. H.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. A.T.

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. S.C.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.

This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. C.C.

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.OW

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.

46

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026

Classifieds

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 2nd January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

47

Classifieds

48

Advertisement

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd January 2026