Kilkenny Observer 2nd June 2023

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Beg, borrow and school

Cash-strapped parents are forced to reduce or postpone expenses to meet voluntary school contribution charges, according to a report by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP).

The study, titled ‘Closing the Gap - What is Needed to End Voluntary Contributions in Post Primary Schools,’ is based on an online survey and case studies with six post-primary school principals and reveals that nearly 90% of parents struggle to pay fees ranging from €30 to €550 per student (average: €140 per child).

Out of the 1,447 parents who

responded, 87% reported cutting back on essential areas like food, energy bills, medical appointments and social activities.

Some even resorted to borrowing from family, credit unions or seeking support from SVP. A spokesperson for SVP noted that the Department of Education guidance to schools states: “Voluntary contributions may be sought from parents, provided it is made clear to parents that there is no compulsion to pay and that a child’s place in the school or continued enrolment is not dependant on a willingness to make a contribution.”

However, 80% of respondents said that voluntary contributions were not clearly communicated as being optional and SVP expressed concern that some schools are not adhering to the Department directive.

One parent responding to the survey said: “It had to be paid or the child did not receive a homework notebook. Teacher would ask where’s your notebook, so all the class would know fees weren’t paid. Very embarrassing for child.”

The schools consulted expressed concern about the level of funding they receive and said

that they rely on voluntary contributions for essential resources such as books, classroom materials, school journals, insurance, stationary, printing and lockers.

Niamh Dalziel, research and policy officer with SVP acknowledged that schools are underfunded.

Dalziel said: “During the period of austerity, the capitation grant, which covers the basic running costs for schools per pupil, was cut from €345 to €309.

“In 2020, the rate was €316. To maintain the real 2010 value, adjusted for inflation to 2023,

the grant should be €422 or 33% higher.”

SVP President Rose McGowan acknowledged the stress and financial hardships faced by parents in meeting contribution costs, leading to reduced spending and debt.

SVP’s recommendations, advocate for new regulations on voluntary contributions, higher capitation grants to cover running costs, elimination of financial barriers in education, policy proofing, a procurement support service for schools, and improved transparency in educational funding data.

Kilkenny soccer ‘belles’: golden memories on the field

Margaret Delaney & Angela Trehy. Both played against a French team and also in the same week as guests of the French team in Kilcohan Park Waterford in 1973

Kilkenny man jailed for sexual assault

Fibre broadband rollout for ‘Comer

Full story: Page 45

Surge in Covid vaccine ‘walk-ins’

EVERY FRIDAY

Kilkenny celebrates a triumphant showing at the Irish Animation Awards in Galway.

Cartoon Saloon’s Netflix production, “My Fathers Dragon,” directed by Nora Twomey, clinched five wins, including Best Irish Feature or Special.

Lighthouse Studios, also based in Kilkenny, secured at least two awards for their creation, “The Cuphead Show.”

Kilkenny’s success further cements its position as a hub for exceptional animation, garnering international recognition for its talented artists. The victories highlight the city’s contribution to the thriving Irish animation industry.

Kevin Cradden (33) from Kilkenny has been sentenced to 18 months in jail for sexually assaulting a sleeping woman.

Cradden pleaded guilty to the assault, which occurred in a Dublin house on May 31, 2021.

The victim woke up to find someone kissing her and touching her inappropriately, initially mistaking the assailant for her ex-boyfriend.

Judge Orla Crowe acknowledged Cradden’s lack of prior convictions and reduced the sentence to three years, suspending the final 18 months under strict conditions.

Full story: Page 10

In a joyous reunion, 15 illustrious soccer women of Kilkenny embraced a remarkable milestone—their golden jubilee.

Gathered from the depths of cherished memories, these sporting pioneers revelled in the celebration of their extraordinary achievements on the hallowed soccer fields of Ireland, over half a century ago. City Hall opened its doors to bestow upon them a regal Civic reception, where Mayor, Cllr David FitzGerald, adorned each player with a parchment of glory, chronicling their triumphs.

Kilkenny community vaccination centre (CVC) – along with CVCs across Ireland – experienced a notable increase in footfall this week as the Health Service Executive (HSE) urges eligible people to take advantage of the Covid-19 Spring Booster.

With the Spring Booster programme scheduled to end in mid-June, the HSE emphasises the importance of swift vaccination for everyone aged 70 or older, as well as people over five

Kilkenny triumphs at Irish Animation Awards

years old with weakened immune systems.

Healthcare providers in the South East, including vaccination centres, GPs and pharmacies, have reported a surge in demand for Spring Boosters.

Leading the coordination of the HSE’s Covid-19 Vaccination Program across counties Carlow, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Waterford and Wexford, Kate Cassidy, said that it is not too late for those with weakened im-

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mune systems or compromised immunity to receive their Spring Booster vaccine. “Walk-in clinics continue to be available with no appointment required in Carlow, Clonmel, Ennisorthy, Kilkenny and Waterford, making it easy for people to receive their Spring Booster vaccine,” she said.

Adding, “People’s immunity weakens over time, especially in older people. This latest booster will keep you protected from

serious illness and boost your immunity against infection from Covid-19. Vaccines are proven to be your best protection against serious illness from Covid-19. If you haven’t had your Covid-19 Spring booster yet, you’re at risk.”

Aside from walk-in clinics, if you are eligible, you can also receive your Covid-19 Spring Booster from participating GPs or pharmacies or visit Kilkenny CVC at Unit 24, Hebron Indus-

trial Estate.

Anyone aged five or older with weakened immune systems are eligible for the booster, with those under 12 requiring appointments for vaccination at Kilkenny CVC. HSE mobile vaccination teams are currently administering vaccines to residents of long-term care facilities for older adults.

For comprehensive information on COVID-19, visit: www2. hse.ie/conditions/covid19/

National Broadband Ireland (NBI) starts construction to bring highspeed fibre broadband to over 2,600 premises in Castlecomer.

This initiative is part of the government’s National Broadband Plan, with a €72 million investment for County Kilkenny to provide minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to 19,000 premises. The Survey and Design phase is complete and construction is underway.

Once finished, residents and businesses can connect to the NBI network. The rollout progresses across Kilkenny, with over 9,000 premises ready for high-speed broadband.

Full story: Page 6

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

News Kilkenny’s culturally curious and deep thinkers will be preparing to head to Waterford for the 11th Robert Boyle Summer School later this month.

The life and legacy of a world-renowned scientist who is considered the ‘Father of Modern Chemistry’ and the most important scientists ever born in Ireland is being celebrated through a weekend-long Summer School where science fact and science fiction collide and debate and discussion flow.

The 11th Robert Boyle Summer School runs from June 22 to 25 in Waterford city and in Boyle’s birthplace, Lismore. The longawaited, four-day event is again expected to draw hundreds of people, including many from Kilkenny with an interest in science, history, culture, debate, discussion and deep thinking.

Multiple events run over four days and the theme for this year’s boutique festival which comes almost 400 years after Boyle’s birth is ‘Science Writing/Writing Science’.

Key in the cultural and scientific mix on the extensive programme is ‘A Science in Fiction’, an open session featuring renowned authors Marianne Lee of A Quiet Tide and Andrew Hughes, The Coroners Daughter which is the One Dublin One Book 2023.

Immerse yourself in deep thinking and science Robert Boyle Summer School 2023

Eoin Gill, Director of CALMAST, STEM Engagement Centre with South East Technological University

(SETU) and Summer School curator, will deliver a lighthearted and fascinating session on Sherlock Holmes

as scientist and his creator, Arthur Conan Doyle’s links to Lismore. It’s a further example of the eclectic

mix of events that make the Robert Boyle Summer School a must for the culturally curious and science

buffs alike, he says.

“Ours is a boutique festival which brings together a great mix of people from all walks of life. If you relish a lively debate, revel in a good discussion and also want to engage your light-hearted side, then this year’s Robert Boyle Summer School is an absolute must.

“It’s not all about the Science. It’s also going to appeal to those with an interest in history and culture, writing, science facts as well as science fiction. Many of our participants make this weekend an annual pilgrimage of sorts. We will be following in the footsteps of a natural philosopher with like-minded people for the duration and you’d never know where the debate might lead us.

“And while the Robert Boyle Summer School traditionally draws a nation-wide audience, with particularly strong support from the Dublin region, we’re particularly urging people from across the south east to join us this year and see what it has to offer. It is more important than ever that we celebrate Robert Boyle’s legacy, particularly as the 400th Anniversary of his birth in Lismore in 1627 looms.”

Registration is now open and the full programme of events can be viewed now on https://www.robertboyle.ie/11th-robert-boylesummer-school-2023/

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Music Generation

Music is in the air with Music Generation Kilkenny Summer is here and Music Generation Kilkenny is getting ready for its 2023 Summer programme of workshops and events. Following the recent success of ‘Crash, Bang & Wallop’ – a series of samba drumming workshops delivered in partnership with Butler Gallery for National Drawing Day – the team are poised for the launch of ‘Summer Drummers’ this week. ‘Summer Drummers’ will run for the month of June in fifteen primary schools in Kilkenny.

The workshops, facilitated by two teams of samba drummers, are designed to be inclusive and will run in the schools’ playground with

all children taking part from junior infants to 6th class.

Speaking about the upcoming Summer programme Sinéad Blanchfield, Music Generation Kilkenny Development Officer said “I’m really excited to develop a range of workshops and performance opportunities for children and young people in Kilkenny this Summer. The idea is to give children and young people access to transformative musical experiences that bring meaning and joy to their life.”

Cruinniú Na nÓg free event|Saturday 10th June

Music Generation Kilkenny is delighted to present three workshops for Cruinniu na nÓg. First up is ‘Song Trail’ - a singing workshop and pop-up performance project suitable for children aged 8-12 years. The ‘Song Trail’ workshop and pop-up performance will give young people the opportunity to socialise through singing, grow their confidence, improve their singing skills in addition to having fun. The workshop takes place in the Friary Hall, Kilkenny from 2pm-4pm followed by pop-up performances in the Medieval Mile Museum, Rothe House and The Market Cross Shopping Centre from 4pm-5pm for parents and the public to join.

A baby music workshop and toddler music workshop will take place at the 1st Kilkenny Scouts Den, Bennettsbridge Road, Kilkenny at 2:30pm and 3:45pm, suitable for babies age 0-2 years and

toddlers age 3-5 years. The workshops are fun and accessible with song, movement, instruments and sensory activities.

This project is funded by the Kilkenny Creative Ireland Programme 2023. Free events but booking is essential eventbrite.ie.

Sounds of Summer free event|Saturday 10th and 17th June Sounds of Summer returns to Butler House Garden in partnership with Kilkenny Civic Trust. These free events provide a wonderful platform for young, emerging talent to perform after a year of tuition with Music Generation Kilkenny’s Musician Educators.

On the 10th of June the wonderfully talented young musicians from the ‘Creative Music Space’ will perform a selection of songs on guitar, drums and vocals. These young musicians are look-

ing forward to showcasing their talents in front of a live audience for their end of year performance.

The second concert in the series will take place on Saturday the 17th of June featuring a violin performance by four Kilkenny primary schools who take part in the Music Generation Kilkenny Primary School String Programme. Enjoy the beautiful sounds of the violin in Butler House Garden at 11:30 am.

Free event, not to be missed!

Tradcamp 2023 free event|4th- 8th July Music Generation Kilkenny and Music Generation Tipperary are delighted to present 'Trad Camp 2023'. Young traditional musicians from all

over Kilkenny and Tipperary can join the five day camp.

This is an opportunity for young traditional players to hone their craft and learn new tunes in a fun environment with skilled masters.

The camp will culminate in live performances in Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile Museum and Clonmel Junction Arts Festival, Tipperary, with special guest Richie Delahunty from Irish alternative folk band Moxie.

To take part in the camp young musicians must have a minimum of two years’ experience playing their chosen instrument. Suitable for age 8-18. The fee for the 5-day camp including the final performances is €50 per person.

For more information on Music Generation Kilkenny get in touch by: email: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie facebook message: @musicgenerationkilkenny phone: 087 1765493

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News

Fibre broadband rollout for ‘Comer National Broadband Ireland (NBI) has begun construction to bring high-speed broadband to over 2,600 premises in the Castlecomer area of County Kilkenny.

This initiative is part of the Government’s National Broadband Plan, which aims to provide minimum speeds of 500 megabits per second to 19,000 premises in County Kilkenny, including homes, businesses, farms and schools.

County Kilkenny will receive a substantial investment of €72 million from the government for this project, making it the largest rural investment since rural electrification.

The Survey and Design phase of the project has been successfully completed and now 2,615 premises in the Castlecomer area are undergoing construction to receive high-speed fibre connections. Once the construction is finished, residents

and businesses will be able to connect to and order broadband services from the NBI network.

In other parts of Kilkenny, work has already been completed and there are currently 9,371 premises where high-speed broadband can be ordered or pre-ordered, with 2,123 connections already made to the network. To check if you are eligible to connect, visit nbi.ie/ map/ and enter your Eircode.

Peter Hendrick, CEO of National Broadband Ireland, said: “The project is now at scale and we are confident that we can continue to accelerate the rollout and move even more premises through construction and into the order phase. We are currently partnering with retail service providers, and other stakeholders, to connect homes in Kilkenny. Minimum speeds of 500Mbps will be available.

“Our goal is to improve digital connectivity across the country. Digital connectivity has become a huge part of our everyday lives, and this new Fibre-to-the-Home network will be a key enabler for the sustainability of local businesses and communities.”

National Broadband Ireland’s website is regularly updated with estimated connection dates and individuals can sign up for email notifications to

Top dressage post for Anne Marie

Kilree Estate hits market with €7.75 m price tag

Kilree Estate, a remarkable agricultural and residential estate spanning approximately 535 acres (216 hectares) of enclosed land, has been recently listed by Savills with a guide price of €7.75 million.

Situated in a highly desirable agricultural region, this historic estate boasts excellent accessibility, with the M9 (Junction 9) just 5 km to the south and Kilkenny City a mere 7 km to the north.

At the heart of Kilree Estate lies a charming country house surrounded by mature

parkland, offering elegantly proportioned and wellbalanced living spaces. The estate presents a variety of assets, including a range of outbuildings and extensive farm buildings spread across four yards. Currently, the majority of the farm is leased, with Kilree operating as a dairy enterprise.

James Butler, Head of Residential & Country Agency at Savills, commented on the exceptional opportunity presented by Kilree Estate, stating, “Kilree Estate offers the extremely rare opportu-

nity in Ireland to acquire a productive farm with a fine period house which extends to over 500 acres and lies within a ring-fenced block.

It was last offered for sale in the mid-1950s, and we anticipate interest from both domestic and overseas buyers, given its premier location and unusually large scale.”

A noteworthy aspect of Kilree Estate is the highquality farmland, encompassing approximately 468 acres, which is securely enclosed within a ring-fenced block. Currently used for

rotational grass, the land has previously supported various arable and root crops, such as wheat, barley and sugar beet.

Covering around 48 acres, the woodlands at Kilree Estate consist of a mixture of mature deciduous species and younger plantations, adding to the estate’s diversity and providing opportunities for conservation and income generation.

Savills emphasises that the agricultural element of the estate is a key feature, boasting excellent infrastructure

including a well-designed paddock system, reliable water supply and convenient access via both public roads and a network of internal roadways.

For those with the millions to spare, Kilree Estate presents a unique chance to acquire a prestigious property offering a rare combination of productive farmland, a splendid period residence, and outstanding location, likely to attract significant interest from potential buyers both locally and internationally.

Kilkenny triumphs in Irish Restaurant Awards Six Kilkenny food stars and venues were lauded at the All Ireland Final of Irish Restaurant Awards 2023.

Almost 1,200 restaurant and hospitality business owners and staff celebrated their hard work and achievements at the Awards Event, which saw many well-known restaurateurs, hospitality business and staff turn out to see if they had won one of the prestigious awards.

Kilkenny’s winners on the night were: Best World Cuisine Sponsored by San Pellegrino

Leinster: Aroi Asian Fusion Restaurant, Kilkenny Best Café Sponsored by Illy Leinster: Café La Coco, Kilkenny Best Wine Experience Sponsored by Bibendum Ireland Leinster: Ristorante Rinuccini, Kilkenny Best Restaurant Manager Sponsored by Halcyon Group Leinster: Aga Kubinska, Lady Helen Restaurant at Mount Juilet Estate Best Free From Sponsored by the Restaurants Asso-

stay informed about the status of premises during the rollout.

Visit www.nbi.ie, to check eligibility, register for updates and receive regular notifications about premises as the rollout progresses.

In addition to the Fibre-tothe-Home rollout, the National Broadband Plan also includes the establishment of Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) throughout the country.

ciation of Ireland Leinster: The Cutting Vedge, Kilkenny Local Food Hero Sponsored by The Irish Times Leinster: Mag Kirwan, Goatsbridge Trout Farm Speaking at the Irish Restaurant Awards All Ireland Final, President of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Paul Lenehan, said: “Now in their 14th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards returns with a recordbreaking number of public nominations – over 130,000.

This sheer number of votes highlights the support and

appreciation by the general public for our hospitality sector and all who contribute to it.”

“The Awards continue to showcase the incredible food that is on offer in the cafes, hotels, pubs and restaurants of Ireland. As an industry, the restaurateurs, pub-owners and entrepreneurs of Ireland, continue to defy the odds. You strive to create jobs, expand upon Ireland’s understanding of food standards and world cuisine, all while maintaining exemplary customer service.

Your support of Irish produce

has never been greater and for this you should be wholeheartedly applauded. Tonight, is a celebration of your unrelenting commitment, ambition and devotion to the Irish Food Industry.”

All of the Regional and All Ireland Winners were announced at the Irish Restaurant Awards All Ireland Final on Monday 15th May in the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road.

More information on the Irish Restaurant Awards: https://irishrestaurantawards. com/faqs/

Kilkenny’s Anne Marie Dunphy has been announced as Horse Sport Ireland’s (HIS) new High Performance Director for Senior Dressage.

Anne Marie is one of Ireland’s leading dressage coaches and one of only 10 HSI Level 3 Dressage coaches, having progressed through the HSI Coaching Programme. She replaces Johann Hinneman in the role with immediate effect.

Anne Marie has had a successful career as one of Ireland’s top dressage athletes, competing in International Small Tour and Big Tour and was crowned Irish National Grand Prix and Grand Prix Kur Champion in 2016 and 2017.

She brings a wealth of experience to the table and has played an influential role in the growth and development of youth dressage in Ireland. She was appointed HSI Youth Dressage High Performance Director when the programme began in 2013 and will remain in this position.

The immediate focus for the Irish Senior Dressage squad will be on the pool of athletes who have qualified, or have yet to achieve qualification, for the FEI Dressage European Championship for Seniors in Riesenbeck, Germany this year.

Speaking about the appointment, Anne Marie said: “I’m very much looking forward to taking up the position as the High Performance Director for Senior Dressage.

“We have some great combinations on the circuit at the moment and I am excited to be working with each of these athletes and building up a strong team.

“Alongside qualified combinations some of our athletes secured the first of their qualification scores for the European Championship recently and we will be putting a plan in place to maximise our potential for the European Championship and beyond.

“I would like to thank Johann for his work over the last number of years, I was fortunate to have observed and availed of his coaching during his tenure and we also had a number of very beneficial collaborations with my youth squads. Also thank you to Horse Sport Ireland for this opportunity.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

Opinion

The Fact Of OfThe Matter Paul Hopkins

Another hate crime, as new laws considered Before the Oireachtas we have a new law purporting to banish ‘hate speech’. The Incitement to Hatred Bill 2022 has passed the Dáil and is before the Seanad. No doubt, this was conceived with the best of intentions and may, hopefully – or, indeed inadvertently, may not – go some way to prevent both verbal and physical assaults on people out of a sense of venomous hared.

Last year saw a recorded 582 hate crimes in Ireland.

Leo Varadkar recently condemned a hate crime attack on a 14-year-old boy and also criticised the bystanders as no one intervened to help him. “The young man who was in that video. I really feel for him. He shouldn’t have been subjected to that violence. He shouldn’t have been humiliated by having that video posted online,” he said. “It is a very sick type of individual who posts videos.”

Mr Varadkar said social media companies have a significant role in taking down content quickly and cancelling accounts of people who post and repost footage like this. He said proposals to establish an online regulator and an online safety commissioner would provide more power and it would require companies to take down content like this and impose fines also.

Quite right, the criminal justice system should deal more robustly with such crimes. That said, the Bill before the Seanad banning ‘hate speech’ could be argued to be somewhat problematic. For starters, no one has defined exactly what ‘hate speech’ is, as it largely depends on how people perceive it. There is the argument, too, that the Bill opens the door to unwarranted State intrusion into the ‘free speech’ of citizens. And, is

there real evidence that hate speech is linked with violence and crime?

I would argue yes to the latter, as evidenced by the small but insidious growth of the far-right in this country and that likely played a role in the recent attacks on refugees in Dublin and on the ongoing scenario in Inch, Co Clare which is not – quite definitely not – all motivated by concern over the lack of amenities for the asylum seekers at the centre of the local protests.

The updated ‘hate’ legislation will add a ‘demonstration test’, where prosecutors can rely on the use of hostile or prejudiced slurs, gestures or symbols at the time of offending, in order to make it easier to secure prosecutions. The legislation is arguably long awaited as Ireland does not currently have specific laws dealing with hate crime.

The law will legislate for such crimes by creating new, aggravated forms of certain existing criminal offences, where those offences are motivated by prejudice against a protected characteristic such as race, colour, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, gender and disability. The aggravated offences will gen-

Last year saw 582 hate crimes...

erally carry a heavier penalty compared to the ordinary offence.

The Bill also introduces a new offence of condoning, denying, or grossly trivialising genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity and crimes against peace.

The legislation has drawn notice from unusual quarters through the global reach of social media: Donald Trump Jnr, son of the former US president, has described the Bill as “insane”, while Elon Musk, the billionaire owner of Twitter, has tweeted that the proposed legislation is “very concerning”.

Introduced last year by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee, the Bill is being steered through the Oireachtas by Simon Harris who is standing in for Ms McEntee while she is on maternity leave.

Hatred directed against one group certainly is poisonous.

Nazi Germany’s vile antisemitic publications hugely contributed to the crimes against Jewish people. What is going on in Myanmar and de facto with Putin is hatedriven. Our own Troubles on this island for 30 years plus was, in part, driven by the hatred of one community for the other.

That said, there is a balance between freedom of expression and due consideration for the impact your words may have. The Bill purports to include measures designed to protect freedom of expression around protected characteristics, but arguably could see a return to the past pattern of damaging censorship.

Perhaps, politicians should reflect on that legacy while giving careful consideration to the proposed measures.

What is that adage about hard cases making for bad law...

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News

Kilkenny man jailed for sex assault on sleeping woman Kevin Cradden (33) of John’s Gate Apartments, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny, has been jailed for 18 months for sexually assaulting a sleeping woman.

Cradden pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault at a house in Dublin on May 31, 2021. The case had been adjourned last December after evidence was heard to allow for the preparation of a probation report to assess whether Cradden poses a risk to society.

Garda Daniel Hanlon told Kieran Kelly BL, prosecuting, at that hearing last December that

Cradden attended a barbecue at the house and a lot of alcohol was consumed.

The court heard the injured party was a tenant at the house and that her ex-boyfriend, realising she had had a bit to drink, brought her to her bedroom and ensured she was tucked up in bed.

The woman later told gardaí she woke in the middle of the night and found someone in her bed, kissing her and with his hand down her underwear touching her inappropriately.

She said she thought it was

'Bite' size guide to safe food start ups To mark World Food Safety Day, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) will host a 'Breakfast Bite' webinar: 'Starting a Food Business – What You Need to Know' on Wednesday, June 7th.

These webinars are part of a series of informal virtual meetings offered by the FSAI, catering to both existing food businesses and individuals considering starting their own.

During the webinar, the FSAI's Advice Line Team, including Niamh Dowling, Chloe Coen and Kevin Rowland, will provide insights into best practices for setting up a food business, essential contacts to reach out to and the necessary food legislation that must be followed. The presentation will cover all types of food businesses, including food trucks and mobile units.

Registration for the webinar is free, and the link to sign up can be found on the FSAI's website.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions to the panel members following their presentations.

Dr. Pamela Byrne, CEO of the

FSAI, encourages individuals involved in or considering starting a food business to participate in the Breakfast Bite webinar. “We would call on anyone who is considering or currently setting up a food business to attend this short webinar which will cover everything you need to know on food safety and hygiene. It’s crucial for all food businesses to understand and comply with food legislation and so we also urge food business owners and operators to attend the webinar as a refresher.”

“Through World Food Safety Day, the World Health Organisation works to mainstream food safety in the public agenda and reduce the burden of foodborne diseases globally. Consumers have a right to safe food and all food businesses – whether wellestablished or newly-founded – must pay close attention to food safety and hygiene standards, which helps ensure that what we eat is safe. Food standards save lives.”

For further details about the event and to register, visit the FSAI's official website at www. fsai.ie.

her ex-boyfriend, but quickly realised it was a different person and said, “Kevin?” to which the accused replied, “yes”.

The woman got up straight away and said she was very confused and not sure what was happening.

She met her housemate outside the door who was aware and concerned that Cradden had gone into the bedroom, the court heard.

The victim’s housemate then asked Cradden repeatedly to leave the house, and he eventually did so naked from the waist Female small business owners in Kilkenny have the opportunity to apply for one of five €10,000 grants and receive one year of coaching from IFundWomen to support their business growth. Despite Ireland's rank as the third-highest country in Europe for earlystage female entrepreneurs, only 37% of high potential start-ups in the country were led by women in 2022. A Visa study revealed a confidence gap, with 93% of surveyed men feeling very or completely confident in evolving their business compared to 71% of women. Additionally, 87% of Irish female small business owners expressed optimism about their business's future, in contrast to 98% of men.

To bridge the entrepreneurship gap, Visa is reintroducing the She's Next Grant Programme in Ireland. Now in its third year, the program aims to support women entrepreneurs by providing five grants of €10,000 and one year of coaching with international business experts through IFundWomen, a funding marketplace for women-owned businesses.

Mandy Lamb, Managing Director UK & Ireland at Visa, highlighted the importance of female entrepreneurs and the challenges they face. She expressed Visa's commitment to empowering women through funding, expertise and coaching to help them achieve growth aspirations and make a societal impact.

Last year's She's Next

down. The housemate then called Cradden back so he could get dressed.

Garda Hanlon said there was “absolutely no way” that the victim had led Cradden on or encouraged him in any way.

Cradden has no previous convictions and has not come to garda attention since this assault.

The woman wrote a victim impact statement which was read in silence by Judge Orla Crowe.

On Tuesday, Judge Crowe said the woman had indicated in her

victim impact statement that the offence had taken away “her sense of self-worth”. “She was distressed and had trust issues with everyone afterward,” Judge Crowe continued.

The judge said the offence was “a considerable violation of her home, her personal space and her body”.

She accepted evidence that Cradden has no previous convictions and has not come to garda attention since this incident and he cannot explain what happened that night.

Judge Crowe said the offence

warranted a headline sentence of four years before she reduced the prison sentence to three years in prison, having taken into account the mitigating factors.

The judge suspended the final 18 months on strict conditions including that he engage with the Probation Service for two years upon his release from prison.

Judge Crowe said Cradden must also “abstain from alcohol”.

She said it was clear that Cradden had issues when he is “under the influence of alcohol.”

L-R: Mandy Lamb, MD UK & Ireland, Visa and Meredith Davis, co-founder of ReFunk Upcycling, a 2022 She’s Next winner

Kilkenny women entrepreneurs: grants and coaching offered program received an overwhelming response, with over 60% more entries.

Winning businesses, such as ReFunk UpCycling cofounded by Meredith Davis, benefited from the funding, coaching and valuable ses-

sions on topics like branding and team dynamics.

Karen Cahn, Founder & CEO at IFundWomen, expressed enthusiasm for partnering with Visa on the She's Next Grant Programme, emphasising the growth

potential of each woman-led business with continued funding and resources.

To apply visit: www.ifundwomen.com/visaireland.

The application deadline is July 21, 2023. Terms and conditions apply.

Investors transform Kilkenny's Georgian gems Kilkenny’s design-led architectural practice, Canice Architects, has reported a surge in overseas investors from the US and UK renovating Irish Georgian properties to their former glory over the past 5 years, with 80% of their business now coming from that market.

A further shift in the market has seen the majority of purchasers choosing to make these properties in Kilkenny their primary residence, rather than investments for the premium rental market.

Ireland has always been

known for its historic 18th and 19th century Georgian properties characterised by their symmetrical designs, large windows and ornate details.

These properties have long been sought after by investors and homeowners alike, and now that Covid has brought a shift to hybrid working and fulltime working from home, as well as a desire for better quality of life, the trend has taken off.

This along with improved connectivity and transport links has brought a new market of investors looking to make Ireland

their base.

According to Damien Curry, Director with Canice Architects, who specialise in conservation and the creative and contemporary re-use of historically significant buildings, “one of the main attractions for overseas investors is the relatively low cost of these properties compared to similar properties in other parts of Europe.” Ireland's rich cultural heritage, skilled crafts people, stunning landscapes and friendly people also make it an attractive destination.

Damien also noted a change

in the type of renovations in these historic properties. “We’ve seen a real move towards thermal upgrades and significant technology being installed in our conservation projects. Our clients are attracted by the history of the beautiful houses and are committed to conserving the unique architectural beauty of these period buildings.

“We work with talented craftspeople to restore different elements of the home back to their original glory. Owners also want their new homes to function in

a modern world of sustainability and technology. We work with them to create environmentally efficient homes that have high-tech functionality, while maintaining the historic essence of the house.”

The recent surge in overseas investment in these Georgian properties has a positive effect on local life. The renovations not only restore the beauty of the properties but also create jobs locally, while owners put down roots in the local community. Damien said, “Many of these properties are listed

buildings and require extensive renovation work, making them expensive to maintain.

Overseas investors are stepping in, renovating these properties, and giving them a new lease of life. The trend shows no signs of slowing down, and we expect to see more and more overseas investors taking an interest in Irish Georgian properties in the coming years. With their exquisite designs and rich history, these properties are a valuable asset to the country and a testament to the enduring appeal of Georgian architecture.”

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

How I’d spend that tax windfall What would you do if you had a huge financial bonanza fall into your lap?

When it comes to big wins I think individuals are likely to behave in one of three ways.

There are splurgers who spend the whole lot in one fell swoop before anyone else can get their hands on the money. There are squirrels who store the loot away against a rainy day and there are people in between who can cope with a bit of deferred gratification but want to have some fun too.

I’m in the latter category and, when imagining how the Government might spend the massive windfall in corporation tax of € 37 Bn from 2022-25 with more to come, I tend – as you do – to apply my own spending philosophy. I like the advice to Lotto winners to give

themselves an initial treat to celebrate the win.

My treat would be to appoint a new Minister of Transport, taking the portfolio away from Eamon Ryan.

The man is overburdened dealing with climate change and bicycle-riding urbanites don’t get the needs of commuters and rural communities who want not only decent public transport but proper park and ride facilities so they don’t have to bring cars into cities.

Then I would do my squirrelling. I like Michal McGrath’s plan to copy Norway and to have a sovereign wealth fund to deal with future contingencies.

The number of people over 65 is set to double by 2051 and the ratio of employed people to retired folk will halve by then and the cost

of pensions and health care is set to soar. Letting elders continue to work if they wish to would help too rather than driving everyone off the retirement cliff like lemmings at 66. Paying off part of a loan makes sense when it comes to Ireland’s national debt of €226 billion where the interest rate at 2.5% is the highest it has been since 2014.,.

My next step would be to fix the house. There’s a saying “ if it ain’t broke don’t fix it,” but, where the Coalition is concerned, it is broke and they don’t succeed in fixing it because the tools they are using don’t work, especially when it comes to the big three housing, health and refugees. Take the planning process which is mired in red tape, creating a log jam in the housing crisis.

The regulations need to be streamlined, local planning authorities seem more interested in refusing than granting permissions and staff numbers at an Bord Pleanala, where the number of applications processed has halved, need boosting.

Why not use wise heads in the construction industry to come up with imaginative solutions, like recruiting overseas workers to solve skill shortages or prefab housing construction?

People want their own front doors, these don’t have to be attached to homes costing upwards of a third of a million, an average new home is now € 359,000 up 9% on last year Our health system is sick, it needs surgery to recover.

After weeks observing the system during my late hus-

band’s illness I saw doctors and nurses working heroically but hampered by inefficient management.

The HSE needs a management transplant to make the system fit for purpose for a public who are sick to death of long waits for treatment and time on trolleys.

Talking of treatment, we need of dose of realism when it comes to the refugee crisis. Taking in around 80,000 Ukrainian refugees has been the right thing to do but it has endorsed our image of Ireland of the welcomes. There is a limit to the numbers of asylum seekers we can take in and we are in danger of being seen as a soft touch. The system for dealing with migrants needs an overhaul, with a stricter, faster admissions system and a realistic

integration approach for a smaller number of genuine applicants. Dumping large numbers of single, unemployed men and leaving them in limbo for six months or more in small or deprived communities is asking for trouble and obscures the fact that we need new citizens who contribute culturally and economically.

We need for teams to deal with communication with communities and to help arrivals with integration, training and involvement in local activities like sport and volunteering.

Spending a relatively modest amount on fixing these tools could make a big difference. Carrying on as they are is like that definition of madness, doing the same thing and expecting a different result.

Living with coeliac disease Familicide and domestic CLAIR WHITTY

Coeliac Disease is a condition that affects your gut when you eat gluten. It can cause digestive discomfort including abdominal pain, diarrhoea and bloating as well as lesser-known symptoms like anaemia and tiredness.

If you’re experiencing any of these frequently, your GP can do a specific test for coeliac disease.

Coeliac Disease is managed through avoiding all gluten.

Gluten causes damage to the tissue in the small intestine which means that your body won’t absorb nutrients properly.

There are supplements that can promote healing of the gut, relieve symptoms, and support the digestive system.

Ann, who works with me in the shop was diagnosed with Coeliac Disease a number of years ago and during this time she has learned to manage her symptoms. She has learned ways to promote healing of her gut when she feels unwell. This is Ann’s experience: Going completely gluten-free was a significant change for me when I was first diagnosed.

I kept a food and symptom diary for the first few months to help me get a handle on what other foods were intolerances for me while my gut was healing. This was really helpful.

Taking Glutamine powder I also find really supportive.

This naturally supports the gut

lining and healthy digestion.

I felt like it was sealing up the leaks in my gut that the gluten allergy had caused. I still take this from time to time when I’ve additional stress and my gut feels a bit more under pressure.

Omega 3’s are essential and I do find I’m much better when I’m taking a supplement in addition to getting them through foods such as oily fish or flax and chia seeds. There’ s evidence to suggest that Omega 3’s help with increasing gut bacteria diversity as well as reducing inflammation.

Finally, the other support I needed and still do is a Digestive Enzyme complex. This helps the body to break down foods and absorb nutrients more efficiently. It can also help with any stomach pain, especially if it contains some anti-inflammatory or soothing ingredients.

If you have any questions about living with Coeliac Disease, Ann would be more than happy to share more of her personal tips with you too.

Phone, email, or call in to see us.

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

homicide study must lead to action BY: DEPUTY KATHLEEN FUNCHION SINN FEIN TD FOR KILKENNY CARLOW Sinn Féin TD Kathleen Funchion, has today urged the government to act on the results of a new study into familicide and domestic homicides.

The study has recommended that a national database should be established for reporting on violent family deaths.

Speaking today, Teachta Funchion said: “The review is an important watershed moment in what are extremely shocking and violent cases that tear communities apart. A piece of work such as this has been long overdue.

“I commend the families who have campaigned tirelessly to ensure that families facing devastating violence like this receive better support.

“The review covered the years 2000-2018 and only included cases where all legal proceedings had been completed. This gave a figure of at least 166 persons having died in familial violence in that period, with the

State Pathologist’s office telling researchers a further 14 cases between 2014 and 2019 did not feature in public records.

“This demonstrates the urgent need for a national database on such deaths and the upcoming DSGBV Agency Bill provides an opportunity to advance policy in this area.

“Sinn Féin have long argued that family homicide review panels must be implemented, with inter-agency collaboration taking place to ensure risk factors are identified.

“The report must be implemented rapidly and it is welcome that a number of government ministers have responded to the report’s findings.

Every second counts for families at risk of such violence and we cannot afford to see any further delays.”

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News

SPECIAL REPORT Responding to April’s Homeless Report, issued by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage that found 12,259 people accessing emergency accommodation, David Carroll, Chief Executive of Depaul said he was “hugely disappointed” to see numbers continuing to increase and that another “appalling milestone” had been passed.

David continued: “People in short term emergency accommodation are in need of an urgent lifeline to exit homelessness.

“Whilst we welcome the Government’s commitment to increase housing delivery, today’s published report highlights the critical need for targets to be ramped up to reflect the urgency of current housing demands to get people out of temporary accommodation.

“Efforts and initiatives must be made to ensure that housing can be accessed by those most in need. An increased emphasis on housing for homeless people is essential for people in temporary accommodation. We would like to see the tenant in situ scheme expanded so that councils are supported to continue to respond. We believe that the targets to secure leased properties for social housing use should be increased immediately above the 1,000 tenancy target set by Government.

“At present one in two Depaul service users have been staying in our emergency accommodation services beyond the recommended six-month stay and 60% of these have been in short term accommodation services for one year or more – this is not a good long-term environment for anyone – adults or children. Local Authorities must prioritise those in temporary accommodation when new social housing comes on stream.

“We have always believed

Urgent lifeline needed to exit homelessness

People are living through a pandemic of poverty and survival

that prevention is the best approach and that the length of time anyone should have to live in homeless services should be minimal.

“People are being forced to spend longer in temporary accommodation than they should because of the crisis that already exists. We are going to quickly see a population of people ageing prematurely and presenting with deteriorating health conditions. The impact on children in temporary accommodation is particularly concerning.

“What people are living through now is a pandemic of poverty and survival and what the figures don’t show is that those who are in emergency accommodation are struggling and just holding on.

“The increase in the numbers clearly shows that the removal of the eviction ban has had a significant impact. We are incredibly concerned that the lack of housing options will increase homelessness even further.

If in three or four months we don’t have it right, we will experience more street homelessness, drug use and families in crisis.

“These figures are not representative of the full scale of the housing and homelessness emergency. We are hugely concerned that those seeking international protection who have the permission to remain will not be able to obtain long term housing and get out of Direct Provision, due to lack of housing and HAP eligible tenancies.

“The ambition of the White Paper was to create own door accommodation – and to create a humane reception system. These objectives have not been implemented in the timeframes envisaged. We accept it will be difficult to do this in the current housing crisis but there is a need for us to be more specific about these targets.”

HSE reveals Capital Plan for 2023 Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly this week announced the publication of the Health Service Executive’s (HSE’s) Capital Plan for 2023.

The 2023 Capital Plan reiterates the government’s commitment to investing in our health service. This plan will support the delivery of strategic reform and a move towards better care in the community and builds on measures required due to Covid-19.

The health capital funding available in 2023 for the construction and equipping of healthcare facilities is €967 million, with a further €50 million provided for capital infrastructure resulting from

Covid-19 actions and an additional €10 million from income generated in 2022, totalling €1.027 billion.

The overarching vision and long-term policy direction for Ireland’s healthcare system is the achievement of universal healthcare set out in the Programme for Government and as reflected in Ministerial priorities for 2023.

According to the Department: “This investment will enable the HSE to progress Government priority projects, including the completion of the New Children’s Hospital, advancement of the National Maternity Hospital, progressing Sláintecare initiatives to bring about the de-

livery of care closer to home, maintaining investment in minor capital initiatives, the delivery of the equipment and ambulance replacement programmes and to progress the Infrastructure and Decarbonisation Strategy and Implementation roadmap in partnership with Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland.

“This Capital Plan includes investment to facilitate reorienting the model of care away from acute hospitals and towards primary and community settings and addressing capacity and infrastructural deficits that exist in the health and social care services.

Minister Donnelly said: “I

am delighted to approve the HSE Capital Plan 2023. This is a plan that demonstrates the government’s commitment to investing in Ireland’s healthcare infrastructure and to support the move towards universal healthcare.”

The Capital Plan provides for the spending of €1.027 billion on health capital projects across the country in 2023 and includes: • New Children’s Hospital.

• Acute hospital projects including additional capacity, critical care capacity and maternity services.

• Investment in infrastructure and facilities at designated cancer centres to optimise cancer prevention, treatment,

education and research.

• Primary Care Programme includes the building and equipping of centres across the country.

• Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) Programme for Community Nursing units includes refurbishment to HIQA standard of units throughout the country.

• Mental health facilities including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services units and acute mental health units across the country.

• Accommodation for Enhanced Community Care.

• Investment in Trauma and Rehabilitation projects.

• Investment in equipment

replacement and infrastructural risk.

• Investment in Climate Action and Sustainability projects.

• Replacement ambulance programme and ambulance bases renovation.

In line with the Public Spending Code all capital development proposals must progress through a number of approval stages. The final decision to proceed with the construction of a given project cannot be made until the tender process has been completed and the costings reviewed to ensure that the proposal remains affordable and delivers value for money.

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

When your finances are brought to book As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time to relax, unwind, and indulge in some mind-stretching reading. If you’re looking to enhance your financial knowledge while enjoying the sunshine, here is a list of must-read books that cover a range of financial topics. From personal finance to investing and entrepreneurship, these books offer valuable insights to help you make informed financial decisions. So, grab a drink, find a comfortable spot, and dive into these fascinating financial summer reads.

The Quants The Quants delves into the world of quantitative finance and its global impact. The author explores the rise of mathematicians and computer scientists in the financial industry and the risks associated with their complex financial models. This book provides an intriguing per-

spective on the interplay between finance, technology, and the global economy.

The Quants helped create a digitised money-trading machine that could shift ­billions around the globe with the click of a mouse with few realised this extraordinary system had sown the seeds for history’s greatest financial disaster.

A Random Walk Down Wall Street In this fully updated 50th anniversary book Burton Malkiel challenges the notion of stock market prediction and advocates for a passive investment strategy, such as index fund investing.

Drawing on his experience as an economist, financial adviser, and successful investor he analyses the recently popular investment management techniques, including factor investing, risk parity and the new kid on the block, ESG portfolios.

Thinking, Fast and Slow Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman explores the psychology behind decisionmaking. Through decades of research, Kahneman uncovers the cognitive biases and shortcuts that influence our financial choices. For example, why is there more chance we’ll believe something if it’s in a bold type face? Why are judges more likely to deny parole before lunch? Why do we assume a good-looking person will be more competent? By understanding the inherent flaws in our thinking and using the practical techniques in these pages you will learn that slower smarter thinking will enable you to make better decisions at work, at home, and in everything you do.

The Intelligent Investor The Intelligent Investor

by Benjamin Graham, considered the bible of value investing, this book provides

timeless wisdom for investors. Over the years, market developments have proven the wisdom of Graham’s strategies. A mentor to Warren Buffett he outlines strategies for identifying undervalued stocks and emphasises the importance of fundamental analysis. This book offers a solid foundation for understanding the principles of investing and developing a long-term investment mindset.

The Only Investment Guide You’ll Ever Need The Only Investment Guide You’ll Ever Need by Andrew Tobias. According to one reviewer “the younger you are when you read this book the longer you will benefit from it” This book with over 1 million copies sold, is a comprehensive yet accessible manual for beginner investors. It covers a wide range of investment topics, including stocks, bonds,

passive funds, and retirement planning. Written for the US market it still has practical advice making it an invaluable resource for Irish investors.

How to Make Your Money Work: Decide What You Want, Plan To Get There?

Author Eoin McGee, from TV, asks: “What kind of relationship do you have with money? Is it helping you make the most of your income? If not, what if you could change that?” In this his second book, he explains how understanding your attitude towards money is the secret to effective financial planning. With chapters like – 12 Money Habits To Teach Yourself (And Your Kid), he outlines how to make the most of your income to close the gap between the money you earn and the lifestyle you want.

Wherever you are on your

financial journey, How to Make Your Money Work will change the way you approach spending and saving with priceless wisdom and practical advice for making your financial goals a reality.

We Don’t Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Ireland Since 1958 And finally, We Don’t Know Ourselves: A Personal History of Ireland Since 1958

by Fintan O’Toole, is a book that will have you saying I remember that! Evocative, moving, and funny, the book creates “an enthralling and panoramic narrative that captures the essence of a nation finding its identity”.

You may not be a history buff but unknown to yourself you will uncover a deeper understanding of modern Ireland. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362622

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News Science & Wellbeing It seems we may soon to be able to make electricity out of, literally, thin air. Scientists have invented a device that can continuously generate energy of of air, offering a glimpse of a possible sustainable energy source that can be made of almost any material and runs on the ambient humidity that surrounds all of us.

A new study says the novel ‘air generator’, or Air-gen, is made from materials with holes that are under 100 nanometers in length, which is a scale thousand times smaller than a human hair. This design can pull electricity from water droplets in the air for much longer periods than previous concepts, the researchers report, suggesting that it could eventually provide a continuous and sustainable source of power.

Researchers hope the technique could eventually help to fight climate change by serving as an alternative to fossil fuels.

If you’ve ever seen a bolt of lightning streak across the sky, you’ve already had a sneak peek of the untapped power that is hidden in ambient air.

This energy is fuelled by the electrical charges of water droplets in the air, a phenomenon that has inspired many attempts to harvest humidity by inducing imbalances in charged waters with special devices.

Many of these techniques only work for short periods, or require expensive materials, which presents practical challenges for efficiency and scalability.

Now, researchers at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, have developed an Air-gen device that yields electricity from contact with water droplets that pass through its porous material. In this It has long been held that modern humans originated from a single population in Africa. But a new paper, published recently in the journal Nature, put this idea to the test — and concluded it doesn’t hold up.

The paper relies on modelling using the genomes of 290 living people from southern, eastern and western Africa. The findings suggest that modern humans descended from at least two groups of ancient humans that were closely related and mixed genes on occasion.

“There is no single birthplace,” Eleanor Scerri, an evolutionary archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology in Germany who did not contribute to the study, tells the New York Times’ Carl Zimmer. “It really puts a nail in the coffin of that idea.”

Rather than envisioning human evolution as a tree — with a single stem that splits into disconnected branches — the researchers describe ancestral human populations as intertwining stems.

“All humans share relatively recent common ancestry, but the story in the deeper

an upper chamber into a lower chamber, but are small enough that the droplets make contact with the material as they move down through the holes.

As a consequence, a charge imbalance is created in the device because the water droplets increase the charge of the upper layer by soaking it as they move into the lower chamber.

The microscale device was able to produce continuous energy equivalent to several hundred millivolts for a test period of a week, which is much longer than other air generator concepts that had a one-time power output that lasted no more than 48 hours.

Its material versatility opens up the possibility of scaling the idea up to meet commercial or industrial energy demands.

“A general understanding is that the energy density is low (which can be intuitively understood that the air is very thin), so a single-layer of Airgen has no way to compete with other power sources (eg, solar, wind) for matched power volume,” Yao explained.

“However, the beauty is that air is diffusive and filled in the entire vertical space, which means that we can stack many layers of air-gen devices in the vertical space to improve power (without taking up additional space footprint).”

“So in principle, Air-gen can be more space efficient” than other power sources, he continued. “Moreover, they can be engineered into varied form factors and neatly blend into the environment (even without one’s notice)” versus the example of “a solar panel that exclusively takes up space.”

It’s wild to imagine a future where homes, factories, and perhaps whole cities might be powered by the electricity that is concealed in the air.

For now, the Air-gen concept remains in a developmental phase, though Yao and his colleagues are already working to scale up the concept and optimise the structure of their materials to boost energy efficiency.

“Importantly, since air humidity is ubiquitous and continuous 24/7, Air-gen can be deployed almost anywhere for continuous energy harvesting, transcending the inherent intermittence of existing harvesters restricted to time or location,” the researchers said in the study.

“The sustainable Air-gen technology holds promising prospects” that make it “a possible ‘greener’ energy technology for the future,” they concluded.

researchers modelled different explanations for today’s human diversity—including the single origin theory and the idea that Homo sapiens mixed with other early human species. But they found the scenario that best fit the DNA data was one in which humans had multiple points of origin.

“When we assume in our

computer model that the stem population wasn’t quite as solid, but that parts of it would occasionally branch off and then later merge back together, we get a much better match with the genetic variation found in human populations today,” Ragsdale tells National Geographic.

The differences between these separate but intermingling groups would have been “almost as low as seen between contemporary human populations,” says Simon Gravel, a co-author of the study and human geneticist at McGill University in Canada.

The oldest fossils from early humans come from Africa, and the first modern humans likely came about around 315,000 years ago. Between 300,000 and 100,000 years ago, evidence of modern humans was spread throughout the continent—more support for the multiple origins theory, Scerri tells Nature News.

Had humans originated in one spot, the oldest artifacts would be found there, with increasingly more recent remains found at sites emanating from the origin, but that is not the case.

Making energy out of, literally, thin air

way, the Air-gen technology creates “a spontaneous and sustained charging gradient for continuous electric output” that “opens a wide door for the broad exploration of sustainable electricity from ambient air,” according to a study published in the journals Advanced Materials.

“One day we may get clean electricity literally anywhere, anytime by using Air-gen technology (i.e., the concept of ‘ubiquitous powering’), because air humidity is 24/7 continuous and everywhere,” Jun Yao, an assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering at UMass Amherst and senior author of the study, said in an email to Motherboard.

“The basis for broad-scale power is that the air contains a huge amount of electricity,”

he said. “So if we make Airgen bigger, we can get largervolume power — that volume can certainly extend to usage for daily-life functions.”

Yao and his colleagues initially stumbled upon the potential of the Air-gen effect a few years ago during an experiment with biologically synthesised nanowires. After successfully producing electricity from the tiny wires, the team began to explore the possibility of repeating the same technique with a host of other materials.

“The initial discovery was made back in 2020 and was really a serendipitous one—we found that Air-gen made from a specific material called protein nanowires synthesised by a type of bacterium called Geobacter can continuously

produce electricity from air humidity,” Yao said.

“But that time, we considered the effect exclusive to this specific material (although we had some initial intuition/ indication that the effect may expand to other materials as well),” he continued. “The current work is based on our initial intuition, which then leads to the discovery of this ‘generic’ Air-gen effect working with literally all kinds of materials.

So it turns an initially narrow window to a wide-open door for broad potential/impact.”

Indeed, the results revealed that practically any material could become an Air-gen device provided it was perforated with tiny holes measuring 100 nanometers or fewer. At this scale, the holes are big enough to allow water to pass through

More on the origins of species past is more complicated than our species evolving in just a single location or in isolation,” lead author Aaron Ragsdale, a population geneticist at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, told Reuters.

For the new study, the researchers looked at genomic data from living humans, which included people from

various groups: the Mende in Sierra Leone, the Nama in South Africa and the Amhara, Oromo and Gumuz groups in Ethiopia, according to Reuters. They also examined DNA from living Europeans and from the remains of a Neanderthal.

Jessica Thompson, a paleoanthropologist at Yale University who did not con-

tribute to the research, tells National Geographic that it might have been useful for the researchers to also include ancient DNA from Africa in the study.

“People alive today may be quite different from those who lived in the same place in the past,” she tells the publication.

Using the modern DNA, the

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Travel & Leisure Before setting off to Florence in Italy , there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Florence is a treasure trove of discovery.

The city boasts an impressive amount of world-renowned artwork, incredible ancient architecture, and delectable local cuisine. In addition, Florence has an undeniable charm that has delighted visitors for ages.

Florence is compact, making it easy to navigate on foot, and there is something incredible to see (and eat) around every corner.

But before setting off to this wonderful city, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Accommodation Accommodation in Florence fluctuates quite a bit with the seasons, so if you can’t afford these peak summer rates, consider traveling during the off-season.

Average hotel price: One night at a 3-star hotel typically costs around €310, or €430 for a 4-star hotel.

Luxury 5-star hotels: Florence has some great 5-star hotels which can cost about €800 a night. If you really want to indulge, ultra-luxury hotels like the gorgeous St Regis Florence where Premium rooms start at €2,300 a night!

If you’re on a budget: Florence’s hostels range from €35-60 for a bed in a dorm during peak travel times, or around €90 – €175 a night for a private room.

Florence night and day

built in 1345, is the only surviving historic bridge that crosses the Arno River. The bridge is closed to vehicles and lined with small shops making for a nice place for a stroll.

Boboli Gardens – Beautifully designed and landscaped gardens act as an open-air museum. The grounds are dotted with ancient marble statues, ancient trees, and water fountains and are a great escape from the city streets.

How Safe Is It? Florence is a safe place to visit.

However, there are still some things that travellers should keep in mind to stay safe during their visit: Be aware of thieves: pickpocketing and petty theft is the most common crime that tourists encounter in Florence.

Be on high alert in crowded areas and tourist attractions like the Piazza del Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.

Buy tickets from the source: Some tourists have reported that they have unknowingly purchased fake “skip-the-line” tickets for top attractions.

Avoid being scammed and always purchase tickets directly from the source.

Know how to call for help: Emergency services can be reached by calling 113.

DO get travel insurance: Travel insurance can help in health emergencies as well as with covering the costs of any travel mishaps during your Florence trip.

Your guide to a treasure trove of discovery

Local Eats And Drinks One of the best parts of travel is checking out the local cuisine, and Florence is a fantastic place to try new foods.

In fact, the city is frequently recognised as one of the best food destinations. Don’t let yourself leave without trying at least one of the following:

Food A three-course meal at a midrange restaurant for two costs around €70.

For a cheap meal at an inexpensive restaurant, expect to pay less than €20.

A beer costs about €5.50, while a cappuccino is a steal at €1.75.

Transportation The most convenient and affordable way to navigate Florence is on foot. The city is compact enough that the top sites are easily reachable by walking.

Public transportation in Florence consists of a reliable bus network called the Autolinee Toscane. 90-minute tickets are available for about €1.60.

Florence is flat enough that cycling is a good option.

Traditional bikes can be rented for around €15 a day or you can rent an e-bike for around €40 aday.

If you need to take a taxi while in Florence, expect to pay about €4 plus an additional €2.20 a mile.

Car rentals are available for about €75 – €125 a day during peak season if you plan on exploring the surrounding region by car.

Culture And Etiquette Check this list before your trip!

Here are some of the major Dos and Don’ts in Florence.

DO book in advance: To avoid disappointment (and to avoid long hot lines), book tickets for the attractions you want to see well in advance.

DON’T expect to eat early:

Italians take their food very seriously, and Florence has many classic dishes to try, so be sure to try some of these traditional favourites.

Florentine steak – 2-inch thick bone-in steak grilled over a flame and then salted.

Trippa– Strips of tripe (bits from a cattle’s stomach) sauteed with tomato, onion, carrot, and celery eaten as a dish or served inside a sandwich.

Seppie in zimino – octopus simmered with spinach, herbs, onions, and tomato sauce, typically served with toasted bread Zuppa di Fagioli – white bean soup full of vegetables and pasta

Italians dine later than Americans, so expect to eat dinner anytime after 8 pm.

DO carry cash: While most businesses in Florence accept cards, there are some holdouts.

Carry cash to avoid high ATM fees and for leaving tips.

DON’T be disrespectful: When

visiting churches silence your phone, speak in a quiet voice, and do not disturb people who are praying. It is also a good idea to dress modestly when visiting a church, and never bring food inside.

DO leave a tip: leave a few extra euros or include a tip of around

10% at restaurants and cafes.

Top Attractions Florence is full of incredible things to see, do, and eat. Here are a few of the top things you can’t miss while visiting the city: Duomo – A UNESCO World

Heritage Site in Florence’s historic centre. Visitors can explore the iconic cathedral and even climb the 463 steps to the enormous dome which tops the building. The views from the top are spectacular.

Ponte Vecchio – The Ponte Vecchio bridge, which was

Drinks Wine – Florence is one of the best places to sample local wines – Chianti and Brunello are two popular varieties that are produced in the region.

Negroni – a bitter cocktail made with equal parts of red vermouth, Campari, and gin served with a slice of orange Cappuccino – the most popular morning drink in Florence is a cappuccino, and it tastes better if you stand at the bar with the locals while you drink it.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Testing times and a rub of the relic The weather is up and that can only mean one thing – it’s exam time (oh, and summer may also be upon us.) I don’t know why, but the sun always seems to shine come examination time. In fact the first question on every exam paper should read: “Why is it always sunny when the exams commence?”

From Primary Cert to Third Level, my memory of exams is always of a hot sun beating down on my tense, anxious body wrestling with Macbeth, the Lady of Shalott or Pythagoras’ Theorem. However, even more so than the weather, I always associate exams with religion. I couldn’t count the number of exams I have sat in my lifetime, yet I never sat one of those exams alone as one should. To my fellow students I seemed to be alone.

To the supervisor I most certainly appeared to be on

my own but the truth is I always had company. I was always surrounded by saints, my mother’s favourite saints.

It is a recognised fact in our household that not one of our family got through an examination on his, or her, own merit alone. We each of us, my three sisters, my brother and myself had assistance. Divine Assistance that was brokered for us by my mother’s prayers and devotion.

My mother’s preparations for her children’s exams started weeks in advance; rosaries were said, novenas were made and masses were offered up. Shrines were visited, candles were lit and in the dim light of hushed churches all around Kilkenny, a host of saints was petitioned for their intercession in the academic trials that lay ahead of her children. Indeed I did a fair bit of petitioning myself.

Many’s the prayer I whispered in the side aisle of the Capuchin Friary to Saint Joseph of Cupertino, the patron Saint of Examinations. Joseph wasn’t exactly bursting with brains but he was lucky enough (and prayerful enough) to be asked the only questions he knew come the day of reckoning.

Every student’s saint for sure.

And many’s the candle I lit below in the Black Abbey, in particular to Saint Martin de Porres to whom our family had a special devotion. Although he was only Blessed at the time we regarded him as a saint and petitioned him on that basis for favours. And in fairness I don’t believe he ever let us down.

The most important religious ritual, however, commenced the morning of the exam itself and would be repeated daily until the last test paper was handed up. Calmly and rever-

ently my mother would take down her precious cache of relics from a discreet corner of the kitchen press and commence the ceremony.

Carefully unwrapping the soft tissue covering, she would

“Divine Assistance was brokered for us by my mother’s prayer

make the sign of the cross on my eyes, my hands and finally my temple (as near as she could get to the brain) with each relic all the while whispering aspiration after aspiration to the particular saint in question. The relics most favoured by her were those of Saint Gerard Majella (after whom I was christened), Saint Anthony (who never let her down) and the aforementioned Blessed Martin De Porres whose relic was given to her by a saintly Dominican, a friend of the family.

When my mother’s ritual concluded I was handed the relics, blessed myself with them then carefully placed them in a shallow, tin box next to my pens, pencils and mathematical instruments. I dutifully repeated the ritual in the examination hall before the start of each test. What the supervisor or

my fellow students thought of my antics I have no idea.

However, so fervent was my belief, so strong was my faith that I never gave a thought as to what they might be thinking; to paraphrase a recurring theme in Dale Carnegie’s book: “How to Win Friends and Influence People”, if the saints are for me, who could possibly be against me!

Not one of our family, I am glad to report, ever failed an exam. Whether this was due to the rub of the relic, natural intelligence, hard work or a combination of all three I’ll never know. This much, however, I do know – if I had dared produce those same relics and re-enacted my mother’s ritual the mornings of my children’s exams, they would have looked at me in bewilderment and wondered what class of witchcraft I was practising!

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Global Report Since leaving office in 1977, Kissinger’s brand of realpolitik – the coldly cynical championing of power and national interests – has largely fallen out of favour as his successors preached moralism, but Kissinger himself has if anything enjoyed greater repute.

Ahead of his centennial, Kissinger blew candles on a cake at a celebratory luncheon at the Economic Club of New York, the city where he grew up after his Jewish family fled Nazi Germany.

Showing his worldview has not changed at the century mark, Kissinger cautioned for the United States to stay within the bounds of “vital interests,” telling the guests, “We need to be always strong enough to resist any pressures.”

Bucking the view of most US policymakers, Kissinger called for diplomacy with Russia on a ceasefire in Ukraine, arguing that Moscow has already suffered a strategic defeat.

An unlikely playboy in 1970s Washington, Kissinger lives in an apartment on New York’s Park Avenue. He has grown wealthy consulting businesses through his relationships in China – and has warned the United States against treating Beijing as a new Cold War-style adversary.

Long despised by the left, Kissinger has come into the good graces of the mainstream of the Democratic Party.

Hillary Clinton after serving as secretary of state called Kissinger “a friend” and said she “relied on his counsel,” while the incumbent, Antony Blinken, teased Kissinger about his stylishness when the elder statesman attended a US State Department luncheon last year.

But for many, Kissinger was seen as an unindicted war criminal for his role in, among other events, expanding the Vietnam War to Cambodia and Laos, supporting military coups in Chile and Argentina, green-lighting Indonesia’s bloody invasion of East Timor in 1975 and turning a blind eye to Pakistan’s mass atrocities during Bangladesh’s 1971 war of independence.

“To me, there’s no doubt that his policies have caused hundreds of thousands of

Kissinger at 100 Henry Kissinger, who has turned 100, shaped US foreign policy like few others, with a long – and highly controversial – record deaths and have destroyed democracy in many countries,” said Reed Kalman Brody, a veteran human rights lawyer whose cases have included working with victims

of Chilean dictator Augusto Pinochet. “I’m bewildered that he has gotten away with it.”

Kissinger has never faced serious legal jeopardy, with a

US judge in 2004 throwing out a lawsuit related to the assassination of Chile’s Army chief and the United States boycotting the International Criminal Court.

But Brody said there would be a strong legal case on East Timor where Kissinger not only approved the invasion but ensured US weapons kept flowing to Indonesia’s mili-

tary.

Brody also pointed to a recording, released over Kissinger’s objections, in which Kissinger tells Nixon that the air force had orders in Cambodia to hit “anything that moves.” Indiscriminate bombing of civilians is a war crime.

The late writer Christopher Hitchens published a book calling for Kissinger to be tried on grounds including tacitly backing Turkey’s 1974 invasion of Cyprus.

Belief in larger goals For Kissinger, most important was always the larger goal. On Cyprus, he prioritised solid relations with Turkey. On Bangladesh, Kissinger wanted to preserve Pakistan as a secret channel between the United States and China.

Muntassir Mamoon, a prominent history professor at the University of Dhaka, said that Kissinger “actively supported genocide in Bangladesh.”

“I don’t find any reason to praise Kissinger,” he said, adding that the view was shared in many other countries including Vietnam.

Kissinger was controversially co-awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating a ceasefire in Vietnam alongside Hanoi’s Le Duc Tho, who refused to accept the award.

“The irony is that he gets remembered for making peace, but all the ways he contributed to an escalation of the war not only in Vietnam but in Cambodia and Laos get lost,” said Carolyn Eisenberg, a historian at Hofstra University who wrote a book on Kissinger.

Eisenberg also played down Kissinger’s public image as “some Machiavelian genius,” saying that transcripts showed how China’s premier Zhou Enlai played him through flattery.

“Zhou Enlai knows that this guy has a huge ego problem,” she said.

Brody, despite his criticism of Kissinger, acknowledged that he had a “degree of gravitas and sophistication” that both overshadowed most US policymakers and endeared many to him.

“Perhaps the reward of being on the side of the powerful is that you’re only resented and hated by the weak.”

And not even a whiff of irony in Putin’s views Russian President Vladimir Putin has sharply criticised countries that he said were trying to “impose their dominance” and rules on others, saying that those that do were “completely ignoring the sovereignty’ of other states.

Speaking at a conference on security issues, Putin said the world was becoming increasingly unstable and that “new centres of tension are emerging”.

He laid the blame for this new era of turbulence at the

door of unspecified “individual countries and associations” — widely understood to refer to Russia’s rivals in the West and NATO — that he said were trying “to preserve, retain their dominance, impose their own rules, completely ignoring the sovereignty, national interests, traditions of other states.

“All this is accompanied by a build-up of military potential, unceremonious interference in the internal affairs of other countries,” Putin

said, “as well as attempts to extract unilateral advantages from the energy and food crises provoked by a number of Western states.”

There was not a whiff of irony from Putin, a leader who over his 23 years in power in Russia has overseen a systematic programme of interference in other countries’ internal affairs and sovereignty, most recently, in Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine 15 months ago.

Before the invasion, there had been numerous instanc-

es of Russia interfering in the internal affairs of other countries, ranging from the state-sponsored use of cyberattacks and spread of disinformation to attempts to influence the UK’s Brexit referendum in 2016 meddling in the U. election of the same year (and, again, in 2020) with Russia denying the charges but earning itself sanctions nonetheless.

Russia has also been accused of supporting both farright and far-left parties in continental Europe in a bid

to destabilise regional politics and, more recently, has launched charm offensives in African and Latin American countries in an effort to influence domestic and foreign policy.

Russia’s interference has also veered into the dangerous realm of chemical weapons and assassination attempts on foreign soil. In 2018, the Kremlin was widely believed to have ordered a nerve agent attack on a former Russian spy in the UK, an attack that left a British

citizen dead.

Again, Russia denied any involvement in the poisoning but, with much evidence supporting the allegation, Western countries imposed sanctions on Russia for the incident which Britain saw was “an assault on U.K. sovereignty”.

It is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last year that’s widely seen as one of most egregious instances of “ignoring the sovereignty” of another country in the 21st century, however.

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Part one

Zero tolerance in old Kilkenny

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Another headache for the 14th century civic authorities in Kilkenny was the straying of pigs into St. Mary’s churchyard. The animals were forever turning up in the churchyard, causing damage to gravestones and consternation among churchgoers.

Priests found it impossible to say mass with the grunting and squealing of pigs outside.

Pigs that broke into the House of God occasionally interrupted worship. "You detestable swine, get behind me Satan!" one cleric shouted at them in anger when they ran up the aisle in the middle of a wedding ceremony, soiling the bride’s dress before storming the altar.

To counteract these porcine invasions of St. Mary’s, the Corporation clamped down big time on pig owners who allowed their herds to stray, or run amok, in the churchyard.

The owners were subjected to the pillory. This was a wooden framework with holes through which the offender’s neck and hands protruded.

The miscreant would remain

market place, and not priin this position in a public vately. Any fish remaining at place to enable passers-by to the end of market day had to pelt him or her with rotten be on sale the following day fruit or vegetables. If unlucky, until somebody bought it. the pilloried person might be One by-law was certainly urinated upon, though the quite shocking from a 21st Corporation discouraged this century perspective. It delatter act. clared: "Should any butcher In addition to applying sell tainted flesh or such as the pillory, the Corporation has died of the Murrain, or ordained that any person buy flesh from Jews and sell who found a pig in St. Mary’s it to Christians, he shall Churchyard was suffer the punishentitled to kill the ment of the animal on the Tumbrel." spot. The reward for this Bakers and service was brewers had to keep the to abide pig’s head. by strict Many "head regulations. hunters" The size of a availed of this loaf of bread law to acquire was regulated Kilkenny in happier free meals of times succulent bacon for themselves or to sell the pigs’ heads on the open market.

There were some peculiar by-laws governing the sale of meat and fish. It was an offence for a citizen of Kilkenny to buy sea-fish from anyone selling it on the roads leading into the town. A first offence merited a heavy fine; a second incurred expulsion from Kilkenny.

Fish mongers were obliged Irishtown to sell their product at the

Kilkenny County council launches free public wi-fi in multiple locations across the county thanks to WIFI4EU initiative

Kilkenny County Council has announced the launch of free public Wi-Fi in multiple parts of County Kilkenny. The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which aims to provide free Wi-Fi access in public spaces across Europe as part of the European Commission's efforts to bring communities more closely into the Digital Single Market.

The European Commission part funded the scheme with the Department of Rural & Community Development via vouchers to be used for the installation of a public Wi-Fi network. Each voucher was

worth €15,000, and Kilkenny was allocated a maximum of 4 vouchers. The funding paid for the equipment and installation, while the Local Authority pays the internet connection fees and running costs.

The initiative is part of the WiFi4EU program, which was open to all EU member countries. There were some requirements to be adhered to for the vouchers to be paid, including installation completion times and the scheme should run for a minimum of 3 years.

Free public Wi-Fi is now available in Kilkenny City, Cal-

lan, Thomastown, Castlecomer, Urlingford, and Graiguenamanagh. Users can access the service by selecting the WIFI4EU network name in the WIFI connections settings on their electronic device, with no registration or password required to use it.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, said, "Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. With the launch of free WiFi across Kilkenny City and County, we're bridging the gap and empowering our community to stay connected, informed, and inspired".

by the price of corn. The civic authorities carefully monitored weights and measures to ensure that customers were not being diddled. Offending bakers were conveyed to the tumbrel to face public wrath.

Vintners were subject to equal scrutiny. Anyone caught selling sour wine, poor quality ale or spirits, or overcharging for drink, suffered the indignity of the tumbrel. The whipping post was deemed appropriate for vintners found to have been ripping off customers over a lengthy period of time. The offender was strapped to the post and flogged by one or two whip men.

The vexed issue of alleged “gossipy women” was still very much in evidence throughout

In the stocks

the 16th and 17th centuries. In January 1570, the Corporation of Irishtown passed a by-law aimed at clamping down on women who became too merry when celebrating the birth of children: a most unfair and oppressive measure.

The civic authorities felt that women both overindulged themselves and spoke far too much at these events. To avoid what it described as the "gross enormity and harm" that such women caused, the Irishtown leaders imposed heavy fines on all "excessive gossips" within their jurisdiction. This could prove a financial burden for the offenders, but at least it was more humane than the scold’s bridle or ducking stool. Spies were sent to report back to the Corporation on over-talkative women.

Kilkenny Corporation also

Aoife Corr RIP The death of Aoife Corr, late of Stephen Street, Kilkenny and "Cuts n Curls", High Street) which occurred on 10th May 2023, was heard of with much regret in the city and surrounds. Aoife died peacefully at St. Luke's Hospital after a long illness bravely borne.

She was predeceased by her parents Ellen and Paddy, sadly missed by her sisters Deirdre and Gillian, brothers John, Patrick and Andrew, brothers-in-law, sisters in law nieces, extended family, great neighbours and her many good and loyal friends.

Aoife was part and parcel of the business and social life of High Street for over forty years.

A skilled hairdresser, she worked closely with her friend Kay Barry in the “Cuts and Curls” Hair Salon, building up a successful business and gaining a reputation for high class cutting and styling. The salon was based at 67, High Street in the early years but later moved to the site which had housed Barry’s Vegetable Shop further down High Street.

Kay and Aoife had many valued clients who appreciated the personal touch.

Following Kay’s death some years ago, Aoife continued to singlehandedly cater for her loyal clientele, doing so in a very professional manner. She was so much more than a hairdresser, catering for all occasions, First Communions, Confirmations, Weddings, Funerals and sometimes after hour appointments, all carried out in her breezy and

cheerful manner.

The pandemic came and as was the case with many business’s the salon had to close. As the situation improved, Aoife carried on her hairdressing in a small way from home but in the last year her health took a down turn and she was unable to carry on. Throughout her illness she never lost her good humour and sense of fun.

Her love of crosswords and puzzles was a great pastime and her trusty well-thumbed dictionary was consulted regularly. She loved her fashion and travelled on many foreign holidays.

After her days work she liked to unwind with a meal and a drink in the local hostelries especially in Kyteler’s Inn. Aoife had a heart of gold and was a good friend to many people in Kilkenny. She will be missed by all especially her friend and neighbour, Breda. The on-line tributes and there were many, all had an “Aoife”, story, bearing testimony to her caring and generous nature which shone through in all her dealings with people.

Family, friends and neighbours gathered in large numbers in Johnston’s Funeral Home to pay their respects. Rosary and prayers were recited by Fr. Richard Scriven.

Fr. Scriven welcomed family

St Marys churchyard

took a dislike to the practise of women keening at funerals.

In February 1609, it decreed that "no outcries be made on the streets at funerals, on pain of six pence." Ladies were frequently arrested and either fined or imprisoned for what the Corporation called "that pernicious howling" in the streets.

So it paid to stay on the straight and narrow in Old Kilkenny.

members, neighbours and friends to the Requiem Mass in celebration of Aoife’s life. He extended a welcome to her siblings, and to her many loyal customers and offered the sympathy of the parish to them on their sad loss.

The lessons were read by Regina (sister-inlaw) and Deirdre (sister).

Prayers of the Faithful were recited by, Méabh Corr (Niece), Andrew Ivory-Corr (brother) Helen Larkin Goode and Cynthia Maharaj.

The Offertory gifts included Aoife’s scissors and comb, carried to the altar by her long-time friend Des Rush. Seven up Free and her mascara were presented

by Regina Corr and Helen Larkin respectively.

Music throughout the ceremony was provided by Sean O’Neill and Martina Burke.

Patrick Corr and Richie Condron shared some memories of a much loved sister and friend. Patrick invited everyone to refreshments in Langton’s after the burial.

Family and friends walked behind the hearse bearing Aoife’s coffin to its final resting place in St Kieran’s cemetery.

Rest easy Aoife, we will miss you!

At this time we remember Aoife’s friend and colleague, Kay. Together now, I’m sure they will have a lot of catching up to do!

High Street is all the poorer for their passing.

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Watershed

­

Watershed transforms with innovative upgrades Thursday May 25th saw the official launch of four significant projects recently completed at The Watershed: the resurfacing of the synthetic pitches, the replacement of the sports hall floor and the installation of new PV Solar panels and Biomass boiler, all of which were made possible under grant schemes and capital funding.

The Watershed is a limited company managed by CEO Tina Dowling and is overseen and supported by a Board of Directors who work in a voluntary capacity. With fifty employees they contribute positively to employment in Kilkenny and serve a diverse range of members, pay as you go customers, schools, clubs and sports organizations.

Open fifteen years this year, the facility is a result of the vision and leadership of Kilkenny County Council, in creating the largest multi-use sports facility in the region for the benefit of the community.

The Watershed are mandated by the Council to achieve annual operational financial self-sufficiency and receive no subvention towards their operating expenses.

Last year the two sports capital projects were made possible from a sports capital grant of €300k along with €200k grant funding from the Council. SIS Pitches completed the works on the Astroturf in conjunction with Miceal McGovern, Sportsturf and Tom Gavin of TG Flooring completed the works on the sports hall floor in conjunction with Junkers flooring.

The Watershed is significantly impacted by the energy crisis, with gas and electricity prices rising by over 60% in the past two years. Installation of new PV solar panels by Local Power and new Biomass boiler

by WoodCo have helped to reduce energy costs and contribute positively to the environment, by reducing the facility’s carbon footprint.

The Watershed successfully installed PV Solar panels through a financial loan of €85k from Kilkenny County Council and a BEC (Better Energy Community) grant of €50k. Additionally The Watershed implemented a new Biomass Boiler by entering into an ESCO agreement with WoodCo and

participating in the SEAI grant scheme project.

Speaking at the event were CEO Tina Dowling, Cathaoirleach Councillor Pat

Fitzpatrick, Chairman Pat Crotty and Deputy Mayor Andrew McGuinness.

“Here at The Watershed, we are committed to

providing sport and leisure opportunities for people of all ages and abilities, whilst contributing positively to the environment and

I am looking forward to continuing and adding to the huge success story of The Watershed for many more years” Tina Dowling.

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Grants for Kilkenny tech initiatives The RISE Community Fund, supported by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) and Granahan McCourt, has opened applications for grants available to small businesses, farms, community groups and social enterprises in County Kilkenny.

The initiative, established by David McCourt, Chairman of Granahan McCourt, and NBI, aims to provide immediate fiPeople in Kilkenny have been urged to have their blood pressure checked as part of a new campaign to drive awareness of its dangers.

The Irish Heart Foundation’s ‘Before Damage is Done’ initiative highlights the link between high blood pressure and heart disease and stroke.

The ‘silent killer’ affects two out of three over-50s - but because it is symptomless, half do not know they have it.

Adults living in Kilkenny, and especially those aged over 50, are asked to have their blood pressure checked with their GP or local pharmacy.

Previous research shows Ireland has one of the lowest rates of awareness, treatment and control of high blood pressure in Europe.

Dr Angie Brown, Medical Director and Consultant Cardiologist with the Irish Heart Foundation, said thousands of people unwittingly go about their daily lives with high blood pressure.

“The only way of finding out is to get it checked with your GP or local pharmacy as you will, most likely, have no symptoms,” she said.

“It is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease and stroke but there are many factors that affect your risk.”

Core Research for the Irish Heart Foundation shows that while many people know that high blood pressure is a risk factor leading to the development of cardiovascular disease (such as heart disease and stroke), there is a lack of awareness

nancial support to local communities seeking to enhance their digital ecosystems.

In June, the RISE Community Fund plans to award up to five grants of €1,000 to successful applicants across the county, with the goal of empowering individuals in using technology for their plans. David McCourt expressed the fund’s desire to accelerate and amplify the

ambitions of remarkable individuals who bring value to their local communities through creative and entrepreneurial uses of technology.

Interested small businesses, farms, community groups and social enterprises in Kilkenny, with aspirations to leverage technology for scalability and local impact, are encouraged to visit www.riseglobalfounda-

tion.com for entry forms and guidelines.

Peter Hendrick, CEO of NBI, highlighted the importance of connectivity in rural areas and acknowledged that it alone cannot address all the challenges faced by businesses, farms and community groups. The RISE Community Fund serves as an opportunity to engage local communities and cel-

ebrate innovative technology initiatives throughout Kilkenny.

NBI also reminds Kilkenny residents to visit www.nbi.ie to check if their home, farm or business is included in the National Broadband Plan. They can sign up for Eircode specific updates regarding the broadband rollout.

Applications for the cash grants opened on June 1, 2023,

Build your own GAA sports bear

Get BP check ‘before damage is done’ Janis Morrissey, left, Director of Health Promotion, Irish Heart Foundation, Orlaith Gavan, Medical Director, Pfizer Healthcare Ireland and Dr Angie Brown, Medical Director, Irish Heart Foundation at the launch of the charity’s ‘Before Damage is Done’ campaign.

Picture: MAXWELLS.

of other serious outcomes – such as dementia, kidney disease and some forms of blindness.

At the campaign launch on Monday, (May 22), Dr Brown said high blood pressure is one of the few conditions that people have the power to successfully manage – but only if they know they have it.

“Once detected, it is easily managed. Medication may be needed in addition to lifestyle changes such as increasing physical activ-

ity, quitting smoking and embracing a balanced diet which limits salt intake.

These changes can have a huge impact.”

Orlaith Gavan, Medical Director, Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, said the campaign is “a really important reminder” for people to have their blood pressure checked.

“We are really pleased to support its Mobile Health Unit as it embarks upon its continuous journey across Ireland. With around 10,000 checks undertaken every

year, thousands of people in every county have benefitted from the services of the Mobile Health Unit since its launch in 2016,” she said.

Dr David McConaghy, ICGP/HSE Integrated Care Lead for Prevention said: “The Irish College of General Practitioners supports this campaign to raise awareness about blood pressure and encourage people to attend their GP practice for a cardiovascular review.”

Susan O’Dwyer, Head of Professional Services at the

and will close on June 30, 2023.

The application process is designed to be quick and easy, and successful applicants will be notified by early July, with funds disbursed shortly after.

Orla O’Malley, Programme Director at RISE, expressed excitement about receiving entrepreneurial ideas from Kilkenny and the potential impact they can make.

Irish Pharmacy Union said: “The Irish Pharmacy Union is delighted to support this important initiative and we encourage people to get their blood pressure checked in their local pharmacy before damage is done.

“Pharmacies nationwide offer blood pressure testing and many also offer 24-hour blood pressure monitoring.

Call to your local pharmacy today to learn more.”

See irishheart.ie for more information.

Young Kilkenny GAA fans will have a ‘furry’ good time at the GAA Museum’s Teidí Tour as they get the chance to make their very own sports bear at the GAA Museum, followed by a guided tour of Croke Park stadium with their cuddly friend.

The Teidí Tour starts with a workshop in Cú Chulainn’s Den where each child will get to select their bear skin, stuff their bear, find a bear heart, give their new furry friend a name, and get a ‘bear-th’ cert! Then they’ll get to dress their new bear in its own GAA Museum training kit.

After that, it’s time to get exploring as families and teddies will head off on a family friendly tour of Croke Park stadium, including a visit to the dressing rooms and the chance to walk pitch-side.

For those looking for more adventure, access to the GAA Museum is also included, following the tour.

Teidí Tours are specially designed for children ages 3 and over, and each child ticket (€30) includes a 16-inch bear to make and take home, plus a bear training kit. Adult tickets are €9, and senior tickets are €6.

Tours begin on the June bank holiday weekend and will run on select weekends throughout the summer.

Tickets are limited so book online in advance to avoid disappointment. Please note that this experience is not suitable for children under 3 years of age, and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

Visit crokepark.ie/teidi-tours for more information or to book tickets.

Ireland falls behind in remote work jobs Research by Grow Remote, a social enterprise advocating for remote working options, reveals that approximately 9,000 Irish roles could be made remote with the implementation of systemic support.

The findings, based on LinkedIn data from May 2023, indicate that only 11.5% of job advertisements on LinkedIn in Ireland offer remote positions, in stark contrast to Latvia, Estonia and Slo-

venia, where 70% of job ads are remote. Sectors such as IT, telecommunications and financial services have the highest potential for remote and hybrid roles, accounting for 46% of Irish job ads on LinkedIn. Tracy Keogh, Founder and Board Member of Grow Remote, said that Ireland is far from reaching its full potential in terms of remote work opportunities. In comparison to other countries in

Eastern Europe, Ireland lags behind in the percentage of jobs available remotely, posing a risk to attracting investment and top talent. To address these challenges and explore the future of work, the Grow Remote Summit 2023 will convene the remote working community, government leaders, business innovators and employers on June 8th and 9th.

Recent research shows that 25% of employees in Ireland

now work fully remote, with numerous benefits cited. Increased productivity was reported by 84% of participants, while 60% felt better able to disconnect after work. Additionally, 61% of individuals aged 25-35 are considering relocating within Ireland.

Remote work has the potential to revitalise towns and villages, as workers staying in local areas generate economic activity and spur job creation. However, challeng-

es remain, including limited local awareness of remote job opportunities and employers’ reluctance to adopt remote work models.

John Riordan, Chairman of Grow Remote, said: “Remote and hybrid working benefits local economies nationwide as employees are no longer required to relocate to major cities and employees benefit from increased productivity and a superior work-life balance. However, we are also

aware that there are associated challenges, including general awareness of remote work, finding jobs that provide remote or hybrid options and issues relating to the supply and adequate number of Irish based remote/hybrid roles being made available to workers. We look forward to discussing these challenges and constructing solutions at this year’s summit, taking place in-person in Portlaoise and online.”

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An exciting animation course with immediate employment potential A brand-new course, with immediate employment potential in the animation sector, is commencing at South East Technological University (SETU) this September.

Aimed at those interested in or working in the exciting field of animation and media, the HDip Production Management in Digital Animation is a oneyear full-time post graduate course.

Applications are welcome to come from diverse qualification backgrounds including business, media, computing or the arts. However, animation or media experience is not necessary. Candidates just need enthusiasm to learn and motivation to upskill.

Over the past 10 years, the animation sector in Ireland has grown exponentially. This course aims to address the demand in this area, and is creating immediate employment opportunities for graduates in south east, Ireland and abroad.

According to Michael McMahon, Course Leader HDip Production Management Digital Animation, “We work closely with many of Ireland most high-profile animation studios Including Cartoon Saloon and Lighthouse Studios based in Kilkenny. Modules are informed by industry and delivered in collaboration with Industry practitioners to

ensure graduates are industry ready on completion.”

Lighthouse Studios, along with its sister company Cartoon Saloon, have been very helpful in the development of the course, Michael said.

This year a successful lecture series entitled ‘Animation Tech Talks’ saw industry experts deliver relevant talks. Lighthouse Studios and Cartoon Saloon presented guest lectures in January and February, and they also hosted SETU staff at their state-of-the-art studios in St Kieran’s College in College in March. Lighthouse Studios are particularly interested in graduates of this course as it closely resembles their production pipeline.

Mercury Filmworks in Ottawa, Canada, who are content creators for Disney Television projects, is a partner company of Lighthouse Studios. Michael visited the studio in April to promote and discuss the course with Weldon Poapst, head of studio recruitment. The course was immediately recognised as an attractive option to support Mercury’s staff upskilling and training programme. As a result, the part-time online option will be offered to this international cohort, and eventually to other animation/ media studios abroad.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

Significantly, the company has also expressed interest in offering employment opportunities to graduates of the full-time course and workplacement positions to fulltime students in their studios in Ottawa. This was reflected in discussions as the course addresses skill shortages in key areas such as ShotGrid and Pipeline Management.

It is SETU’s intention to deliver the course in a unique hybrid classroom mode. This means that both face to face and online delivery will take place simultaneously. Fulltime students will be offered in person teaching, while the part-time online option is available to international applicants.

A series of promotion/information sessions were held in May to promote the course and answer any queries. This series will continue every Thursday throughout the month of June via remote Zoom link. Mr McMahon, lecturers on the course and Industry partners will be present to answer any queries.

A Zoom information event takes place every Thursday in June from 7-8pm. Join at www.wit-ie.zoom.us/ j/91976960288?from=addon.

The meeting ID is: 919 7696 0288.

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Recruitment

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Recruitment

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

Newpark Close Family Resource Centre

Retirement at Newpark close nifty fifty club

Parting is such sweet The Kilkenny Observer newspaper was delighted to join the large group of friends and colleagues and members of the Board of Management, in Newpark Close Family Resource Centre on Friday to bid farewell to Ber Brophy, retiring after almost two decades as Community Development worker.

In a comprehensive address, centre manger Sheila Donnelly praised Ber’s ability and commitment and acknowledged the enormous debt owed by the FRC to her talented colleague. This was reiterated by Deputy Mayor Andrew McGuinness who commented that Ber Brophy’s work had positively impacted many people throughout Kilkenny. In a moving tribute, Kilkenny poet, Kathleen Phelan, read ‘Tapestry’ a specially penned piece to

acknowledge the work of the Nifty 50’s’ and of Ber’s influence guiding this iconic group. Replying, Ber thanked everyone for their attendance and mentioned the enormous help she received from Siobhan O’ Brien, KCETB, and Sheila Donnelly, Project manager.

In a final emotional ceremony, the FRC remembered the six members of the Nifty 50’s gone to their eternal reward. Family members of the deceased each poured a cup of sand into a ‘Memory Jar’ that will be displayed prominently within the centre. After the formalities were completed the attendance enjoyed a pleasant repast interspersed with fun and frivolity.

Photos enclosed by Kilkenny photographer Pat Shortall captured the attendance.

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Newpark Close Family Resource Centre

Kathleen Phelan, read ‘Tapestry’ a specially penned piece to acknowledge the work of the Nifty 50’s’ and of Ber’s influence guiding this iconic group. Picture shows from left to right: Kathleen Phelan, Ber Brophy, Sheila Donnelly and Tomomi McElwee

sorrow

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Opinion

Girl Auction

BY NED EGAN

Part 20 Neither Connolly was afraid – for their individual selves. Only for the other one. Now, gradually, so slow as to hardly notice, the tiny zephyr ratchetted up a notch, so that a dead leaf, here and there, turned over in its eternal sleep. The girls noticed.

Minute by minute, the wind strength gently lifted; now it was strong enough to twitch their threadbare clothing.

But, strangely, the temperature still didn’t change. We now shoot sideways to see if we can find the cause of this silent storm that is brewing in the Wood.

The magic madra sent to help them by their Mammy in Hevvy is still with them and now a lately arrival – a cheeky

little swallow named Shem. He, too, has been sent Down from Up Top, to assist in the upcoming battle between Good and Evil which has been brewing for ages.

They all are still alert to their surroundings, and wise they are to be so, with the Dacent prowling the dark with his big Purdey. The Shem bird has taken it on himself to spy out the lay of the land around Bilzies, and will shortly depart on a dangerous recce flight. He’s upped his wisdom with a sliver of brain-power from Molly, a wee shot of strength from the madra, and a plyke of {necessary} tough crankiness from Babsie. They had all sworn a mild binding oath that they’d fight it out together. The Shem, before he goes on his spying mission into the dangerous dark, couldn’t resist the chance of a final departing speech!

“Babsie, what I really needed from you

was ‘disbelief!’ Would you credit that? Why would I need that function? Well, it’s because I’m a gambling sort of birdie – and such creatures are always willing to listen to a sob story, or some wacky tale. Easily codded is the Shem – I grant you that - inclined to believe any chancer.

Maybe because I’m a bit of a tearaway myself! Anyway, I’ve been observing you, Babs, and listening in on your thoughts.

Anybody who tries to pull the wool on you will get the fast hop, for sure.

You see to the heart of things, in a flash. And you so young!

The ‘three’ are glad Shem has pulled in. They appreciate what he’s brought to the party. But they’ve also had enough of his speechifying. The magic madra thinks “where the heck does such a wee chirper get all that hot air from?”

All three felt a new stage was being reached,

in the order of this strange and dangerous night’s happenings.

Shem is almost ready to go spying, has been granted a tiny bit of the other three’s strong points, so they’ll all have some contact when he spy-flies off to find what the Dacent and his Wiccan ma are up to.

The Shem has already made several long speeches, which have vexed the magic madra, and even strained the patience of the girls.

But he’s a brave and good natured little bird; though rather overly fond and full of himself.

Now, having {apparently} run out of things to praise himself about, he prepares to go. Although the ‘trio’ will have a sort of telepathic connection with him, no messages can be sent. They can see – through his eyes if he gets into trouble; but they can’t help – or even warn him. Folks – even ‘ghostie creature/ human’ contacts have

limits. At least the trio will see what Shem sees. But if some dire fate befalls him, it’s ‘goodnight and goodbye.

We are all still waiting for the Shem to depart.

It seems as though his chirping has taken an enormous lump of time – but as we humans rock along vocally at a rate of 200 words a minute, it’s easy to imagine a fast twittering bird exceeding that. So, hardly any time at all elapses; but the girls and the madra are still a bit nervous: the more seconds that they’re hanging about – the more likely the Dacent might show up.

But now, at last, comes a promise from ‘Mr Busy Beak’ – as magic madra, quite irreverently, has begun to start regarding him.

Shem is now setting off to spy out the doings of the Dacent, and to see how Simon and Bridie Flynn are going, on their mission to help the Connolly girls but is still perched

there, deep in freezing Bilzies, on a dead branch of the great oak – in case you’d all forgotten!

And it probably hasn’t escaped your attention that he’s been all talk and no trousers so far – and not a thimbleful of action!

The trio – Molly, Babs, madra – are beginning to think: “Is this lad just the greatest little con-bird-artist ever?

Janey Mac – have we been diddled by a feckin’ chirp-mad Passerine ghostie? Cripes, aren’t we the eejits!”

But, reader, you and I know that the Shem bird is no ‘scaymer’, no slíbhín: we reckon.

For the attention of our readers Alas, due to ill health, Ned is unable to continue at present.

Disclaimer The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Kilkenny Observer.

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News

A warm welcome for visitors to Kilkenny Kilkenny County Council in partnership with Kilkenny Volunteer Centre again launched the ‘Kilkenny Welcome Team’ today 24th May. The Welcome Team are a group of approx. 20 trained volunteers who will meet and greet visitors to Kilkenny, providing a warm Kilkenny welcome along with visitor information over the summer months.

The Kilkenny Welcome Team will be strategically placed at high footfall locations around Kilkenny city to provide a range of information from opening hours to local attractions, nearby toilet facilities, pharmacists, ATM locations, train and bus times.

All Kilkenny Welcome Team volunteers are fully trained to engage and answer guests’ queries and will be out and about and very visible around our cobbled streets throughout weekends during the summer. Volunteers will only engage when asked and will not impose on any visitors uninvited.

Commenting on the initiative, Cathaoirleach Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick stated; “I am delighted and want to thank our

volunteers who are out and about welcoming visitors to Kilkenny and are giving their valuable time in volunteering to be part of the initiative.

The Kilkenny Welcome Team provides a great opportunity for individuals to put the Kilkenny jersey on and play a meaningful role in our visitors experience to the City”.

Deputy Mayor of Kilkenny, Cllr Andrew McGuinness added; “The launch of the Kilkenny Welcome Team demonstrates the commitment of Kilkenny County Council in supporting the local tourism sector to optimise the visitor experience for the 2023 season”.

Tourism Officer with Kilkenny County Council, Martina Comerford said; “The Kilkenny Welcome Team is a great example of how the community can join forces in an effort to drive tourism and hospitality in our County.

Kilkenny has always been renowned for giving visitors a warm welcome, and now with the help of the volunteers; this on-the-ground approach from local people will show how Kilkenny really cares about its visitors.”

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Aubergine parmigiana

Prep: Less than 30 mins Cook: 30 mins to 1 hour Serves: Serves 4

This aubergine parmigiana is so easy to make and tastes wonderful.

It’s simpler than a lasagne and lighter, too. The tomato sauce can be doubled and frozen for another easy dinner.

Ingredients For the aubergine: • 2 large aubergines, sliced into thin slices about 5mm/1/4 inch thick • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish • sea salt and freshly ground black pepper For the tomato sauce: • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 red onion, finely chopped • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes • 1 teaspoon dried basil • 1 teaspoon dried oregano • salt and pepper, to taste Method Preparing the tomato sauce:

• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion becomes translucent.

• Add the tins of tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.

• Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Preparing the aubergine: • Brush the aubergine slices with olive oil on both sides to cook.

Heat a griddle pan and cook the aubergine for a couple of minutes on both sides until lightly browned. Transfer the fried slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assembling the Eggplant Parmigiana: • Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan • Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

• Arrange a layer of fried aubergine slices over the sauce.

• Sprinkle some shredded

mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the aubergine.

• Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.

• Bake the Aubergine Parmigiana in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

• Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

• Serve the parmigiana hot with a green salad alongside. This dish reheats well if you have any leftovers.

Minestrone soup

Prep: Over 2 hours Cook: No cooking required Serves: Serves 4 This frozen dessert is so fragrant and so easy to make: the ingredients are just whipped together and frozen and it doesn’t need churning. Serve with summer berries for the perfect summer dessert.

Ingredients • 150ml/¼ pint pouring double cream • 150ml/¼ pint elderflower cordial • summer berries, to serve • a dusting of icing sugar

Prep: Less than 30 mins Cook: 30 mins to 1 hour Serves: Serves 4

Method STEP 1 Place the cream in a mixing bowl and whip until it forms soft peaks, then gradually pour in the elderflower cordial, whisking until combined.

This budget minestrone is the classic Italian soup made with cannellini beans and broken up spaghetti. Feel free to stir in extra vegetables, depending on what you have in the fridge.

This is designed to be a low-cost recipe.

Ingredients • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped • 3 large celery sticks, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 2 tbsp tomato purée • 400g tin chopped tomatoes • 1.2 litres/2 pints vegetable or chicken stock, made from stock cubes • 400g tin cannellini beans, drained and rinsed • 100g/3½ dried spaghetti, broken into short lengths • ¼ head green cabbage, finely shredded • salt and freshly ground black pepper

Frozen elderflower posset

STEP 2 Freeze in a plastic tub until completely frozen. Scoop into a food processor and blend to remove any ice crystals STEP 3 Transfer to pretty little dessert glasses or Martini glasses for at least three hours or overnight in the freezer.

Method STEP 1 Heat the olive oil in a large lidded saucepan over a medium heat. Add the onion, carrots and celery, season with a little salt and pepper and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables have softened.

STEP 2 Add the garlic and fry for another minute. Stir in the tomato purée and cook for a further 3 minutes.

STEP 3 Tip in the tomatoes and stock.

Cover with a lid and bring slowly to the boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.

STEP 4 Add the beans and pasta and cook for a further 10 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.

Add the cabbage and cook for another 2 minutes. If the soup is too thick, add some hot water to reach your preferred consistency.

Season to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

STEP 4 To serve, place in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly, then serve each glass with a few summer berries and decorate with a dusting of icing sugar.

TIP This could also be made with other fruit cordials. But don’t be tempted to use fruit juice, it is the sugar in the cordial that makes the posset freeze smoothly.

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5

Netflix The Days on the horror of Fukushima

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of the best right now on Netflix 1. The Night Agent

The Night Agent doesn’t do anything particularly new – it’s a twisty, turny US thriller series-bynumbers – but it has the essentials down pat. Gabriel Basso plays young FBI agent Peter Sutherland, assigned to the graveyard shift on a Whitehouse hotline after his involvement in a dramatic terrorist incident. Before long he’s answering a late night call from a young entrepreneur, and helping her evade the attentions of a pair of paid killers. The leads are likeable, everything moves along at a fair old lick, and the whole thing is good solid entertainment.

2. The Diplomat

The Days, a new limited series on Netflflix, aims to show us what really happened during the Fukushima nuclear disaster.

Sky Original’s Chernobyl, which tells “the true story of one of the worst man-made catastrophes in history and tells of the brave men and women who sacrificed themselves to save Europe from unimaginable disaster”, has been hailed as one of the “greatest TV shows of all time”.

Now, Netflix is seemingly hoping to achieve the same critical acclaim with its own dramatisation of a historic nuclear disaster.

And, yes, if it’s even half as good as Chernobyl was, we suspect The Days (which has been adapted from On The Brink: The Inside Story Of Fukushima Daiichi by Ryusho Kadota) will have everyone gripped from start to finish.

Here’s what you need to know about the limited

series.

On March 11, 2011, a 9.0 magnitude earthquake rocked Japan. The event triggered an extremely powerful tsunami, and the subsequent waves – some of which were recorded to be 14 metres high – flooded the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant and damaged its emergency diesel generators.

The sudden loss of electric power meant that the pumps used to cool down the reactor cores stopped working, prompting three nuclear meltdowns and several hydrogen explosions.

Shockingly large amounts of radiation were released into the atmosphere and the Pacific Ocean, prompting mass evacuations and an ever-widening exclusion zone.

It was the most severe nuclear accident since the Chernobyl disaster in 1986.

And the effects are still being felt, even now. Indeed,

tens of thousands of workers will be needed over the next 30 to 40 years to safely remove the nuclear waste still kept at the site.

Reports, too, have suggested that the government plans to release more than 1 million tonnes of radioactive wastewater back into the Pacific Ocean – something that Greenpeace is lobbying against, saying it contains “dangerous levels of carbon-14”, a radioactive substance that has the “potential to damage human DNA”.

As per the official synopsis for The Days, the eightepisode series, which has been based on meticulous research, is “a multi-layered drama that depicts the accident from three different perspectives in great detail.

“This is the true story of seven intense days, showing what really happened on that day and at that place from the viewpoints of the government, the corpora-

tion and the people who risked their lives on site, and in doing so coming closer to the truth,” it adds.

What was the real-life impact of the Fukushima nuclear disaster?

It is important to note that, while there were no deaths immediately during the nuclear disaster, the BBC reports that a number of people died in the evacuation, including dozens of hospital patients who had to be moved due to fears of radiation.

According to Japanese health and radiation specialist Shunichi Yamashita, too, the “life expectancy of the evacuees has dropped from 65 to 58 years – not because of cancer, but because of depression, alcoholism and suicide”.

Koji Yakusho will lead the series, playing a character modelled after Masao Yoshida, the plant manager at Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.

Season 2 of Citadel is confirmed Amazon Prime Video has confirmed Season 2 of Citadel, described as the Second Most-Watched International Original spy drama.

The first season of the spy drama, which premiered in April, had a number of directors attached, including Jessica Yu and Newton Thomas Sigel as well as Anthony Russo and Joe Russo on unspecified episodes.

On Season 2, however, it will be solely Joe Russo on directing duties, with David Weil returning as showrun-

ner.

“Citadel is a truly global phenomenon,” said Salke.

“Our goal was always to create a new franchise rooted in original IP that would grow Prime Video’s international audience. This show has drawn an outsize number of new international customers to Prime Video.

“Its massive worldwide debut audience is a testament to Joe and Anthony Russo’s remarkable vision, the incredible talents of Richard Madden, Priyanka Chopra

Jonas, Lesley Manville and Stanley Tucci, and the tireless work of the creative teams, cast, and crew. Given the overwhelming number of our customers who have embraced this show, we are not only thrilled to share the premiere episode of Citadel globally without membership, but also confirm that the series will return for a second season.”

Anthony Russo and Jos Russo added: “AGBO is thrilled to embark on this next phase of the spyverse

with Jen, Vernon, and the entire team at Amazon. The innovative storytelling of Citadel’has paved the way for an incredible, worldwide collaboration with creatives in front of and behind the camera.”

Despite its ambitious premise, however, Citadel has so far received mixed reviews from critics, who’ve remained wary of its formulaic approach to creating an international franchise à la Squid Game or Money Heist.

Keri Russell (of The Americans fame) plays Kate Wyler, the US ambassador to the UK in this slickly produced thriller series.

Rufus Sewell plays her former diplomat husband, and the couple’s strained marriage and contrasting professional fortunes make for a compelling sub-plot to all the political wrangling, international incidents, and glitzy shindigs. It’s perhaps a little more formulaic and not quite as thoughtful as some would like is ‘reliably entertaining’ territory.

3. Beef

Perhaps the most interesting Netflix project of the year so far, Beef stars Steven Yeun and Ali Wong as two very different parties in a fateful road rage incident. The tit-for-tat escalation that follows speaks to the deep unhappiness of these two characters, one a down-on-their-luck building contractor, and the other a small business owner seemingly on the cusp of breaking into the elite.

Beef is the kind of uncomfortable, hard-to- categorise dramedy that delights in wrong-footing you at every turn.

4. Lockwood & Co.

Joe Cornish of Attack the Block and Adam and Joe fame gets a crack at the lucrative YA fantasy genre, to which he brings his own brand of distinctly British whimsy. The series follows a London ghost-busting agency fronted by young people, who are the only members of society who can see and fight an epidemic of deadly apparitions. Featuring a strong concept (based on a series of books), exemplary production design, and strong performances from its three young leads, Lockwood & Co. is a blast. Sadly, it has also been cancelled.

5. The Pale Blue Eye

Christian Bale stars in this moody gothic whodunnit as detective Augustus Landor, who takes on the disturbing case of a killing at a US military academy in 19th century New York State. There are signs of a ritualistic element to the killing, which leads to Landor enrolling the assistance of a sharp but strange cadet named Edgar Allan Poe, played by Harry Melling. Yes, that’s the writer Edgar Allan Poe. The sheer quality of the cast ensures a good time.

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Golden Jubilee

Kilkenny soccer ‘belles’ celebrate golden jubilee

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By Donie Butler, Kilkenny soccer historian Fifteen Kilkenny soccer women were reunited at the weekend to celebrate their extraordinary achievements on the soccer fields of Ireland from over 50 years ago.

The Mayor Cllr David FitzGerald accorded them a Civic reception at the City Hall and presented each of the players with a parchment listing their achievements. At City Hall the Mayor was very gracious in his congratulatory message to the women and their guests. Michael Walshe Manager/Coach to all three teams replied. Anne Griffith Fit Remoulds/Evergreen LAFC Captain and Kilkenny’s first international women’s player responded on behalf of her colleagues. Rob Higton Chairman of Kilkenny & District League spoke in glowing terms of the women and their achievements.

Donie Butler read a remembrance prayer/poem

by Charles Dickens ‘These

Things Shall Never Die’ for departed team colleagues.

In the evening, sporting ecumenism was very evident when events moved onto St John’s Park, O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club, where a commemorative plaque was unveiled by the Mayor Cllr David Fitzgerald and guest of honour, Piltown native and 35 times capped Republic of

Ireland international, Karen Duggan. The players received Kilkenny & District League certificates acknowledging their National Cup achievements from Karen Duggan.

There was a champagne reception on arrival at O’Loughlin Gaels clubhouse and a beautiful meal was enjoyed by the 30 players

and guests. Donie Butler Honorary Trustee Kilkenny & District League and event Convenor paid a special thank you to O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club and Joan Galwey, Honorary Secretary replied on behalf of the club. Donie also extended his thanks to the sponsors of the events, Fran Grincell Properties,

Kilkenny & District League, Evergreen AFC and Glanbia Nutritional’s.

A most relaxed and enjoyable evening was had by the players at the Balcony Lounge at OLG overlooking the playing field where they had performed their skills in that first final in 1972.

Most of the time was spent reminiscing and recalling great stories and a few tall tales or two about events of 50 years ago.

Fit Remoulds/Evergreen LAFC spectacular achievements included: • Playing as Fit Remoulds AFC, they played in the inaugural Irish Women’s Soccer Cup Final in 1972.

They lost 0-1 to Suffragettes, Dublin.

• The playing of the 1972 inaugural Irish Women’s Cup Final at St John’s Park, Kilkenny City was also unique in that it happened at O’Loughlin Gaels GAA grounds.

• Playing as Evergreen LAFC they won the next two

cup finals in 1973 versus Avengers, Dublin.

• 2-0 at Galway and Galway Town 2-1 in 1974 at Kilkenny.

• Evergreen LAFC were the first Kilkenny team to win a national soccer title at any level either male or female.

• Evergreen LAFC were founder members of the Women’s National League of Ireland in 1973.

• Four Kilkenny women namely Anne Griffith, Kay Ramsbottom, Connie Jordan and Ursula Grace obtained international caps for the Republic of Ireland across games versus Wales, Northern Ireland and France.

• The international game versus Wales played at Stebonheath Park, Llanelli in May 1973 was Irelands first Women’s International game.

Anne Griffith, Kay Brennan and Ursula Grace all had been chosen for the game but only Anne was able to partake.

Congratulations to the Kilkenny Soccer Belles and heroines of 1972-1974.

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Community & GAA Notes

LOTTO Lotto Results 23rd May. Numbers drawn - 15, 19, 25. No Jackpot winner. €30 each to Jimmy Dunne, Catherine Langton, Donal McDonald, Yvonne Mosely, Michael Dreeling. Thanks to all for your support.

SUPPORTERS CLUB Kilkenny GAA Supporters Club. For anyone wishing to join or pay their membership renewal please contact Martin Nolan of Clara at 0862343254. Thanks for the support.

PILTOWN DRAW Hurlers co-op member draw tickets (Piltown tickets) are now available from Executive, Camogie and LGFA committee members, senior hurlers and camogie players or contact Dermot Nolan 0879206998.

This is an important fundraiser for our club and your support is appreciated. First draw takes place on June 13th.

COUNTY Well done to backroom staff Conor Phelan and John Murphy and the Kilkenny senior hurlers who have qualified for a Leinster final tilt at Galway even by losing an enthralling battle with Wexford on Sunday.

SENIORS LOSE Clara senior hurlers lost out to Dicksboro at home last Friday evening in the Senior/ Intermediate league. On a beautiful summer evening two very understrength teams served up a nice game but the Boro availed of more of their chances to run out deserving 3-19 to 2-16 winners. They strung together two four points in a row sequences in the first half which helped them to a 1-12 to 1-6 interval lead. The Clara goal had come from the stick of Paul Cody and in truth had come somewhat against the run of play.

A Paul Cody point from play and two Dara Glynn frees at the start of the second half gave Clara some hope of a recovery but the Boro soon silenced their ambitions with the next three scores themselves. Two of these were goals from Mark Nolan who was completing his hat trick of goals. Clara briefly rallied again with a Chris Bolger goal and two points from Dara Glynn and Joe Connolly but another point from Paul Cody after 18 minutes proved to be their last score from play in the match. Dicksboro just comfortably kept them at arm’s length for the rest of the proceedings and ran out easy enough winners.

Team - Jason Barcoe, Ben Crow, Paddy Ryan, Brandon Ryan. Harry Boyle, Conor Cody, Jim Kehoe. Liam Ryan 0-1, Martin O Connell 0-1.

Joe Connolly 0-1, Paul Cody 1-2, Peter Nolan. Dara Glynn 0-8, 0-7f. 0-1x 65, Killian Phelan, Chris Bolger 1-2. Subs Alan Coleman, Sean Carrigan.

ROINN A CHAMPIONS St. Colman’s NS bridged a 15 year gap on Sunday in Gowran when they overcame Bunscoil McAuley Rice of Callan in the Roinn A Camogie schools final. The team delivered the perfect team performance on the day and the result was never in doubt once Elizabeth Cooke and Ali McDonald scored a goal each in the first two minutes.

Callan tried hard but found the Clara defence in defiant mood. Stella Langton, Lucy Kealy and Ella Tierney were leech like in their marking while Kate Mulrooney and captain Olivia Power cleared ball after ball.

Olivia also managed to surge forward for a fantastic goal having lost and regained possession during a long solo run. Almost every time Clara goaled Callan tried to retaliate strongly but Eva Cody Dreeling was in inspired form between the Clara posts and made at least three miraculous saves to thwart the Callan girls. Halftime was reached with Clara 5-0 to 0-2 ahead.

The superior Clara physical strength continued to tell in the second half and Ali McDonald and Amelia Ryan kept firing balls into their attack. These chances were snapped up by the likes of Katie Murphy and Emily Phelan who added goals to the earlier one scored by Ellis Beatty. Katelyn Shortall was a bundle of energy in this sector too and substitute Claragh Roche added a goal with her first touch.

With the result beyond doubt Clara showed off their strong panel with every sub coming on and playing their part. To Callan’s credit they scored heavily down the stretch but Clara ran out winners on a remarkable 10-1 to 2-5 scoreline. Callan had top performers in Maeve Moran, Isabelle Norris, Molly Dunne and Rachel Kennedy but most of the big displays on the day came from the Clara girls. Huge credit is due to the management team of Claire Phelan, Aoife Glynn, Richie Mulrooney and Paddy Deegan who had the girls in maroon primed to deliver their best display on the biggest day. Aoife provided a link with the last Clara team to claim this title as she was a fourth class panellist back in 2008.

Captain Olivia Power gave a very accomplished speech and accepted the cup on behalf of a delighted Clara panel.

Team - Eva Cody Dreeling, Stella Langton, Lucy Kealy, Ella Tierney,

Olivia Power 1-1, 0-1 x 45, Ali McDonald 2-0, Amelia Ryan, Kate Mulrooney, Emily Phelan 2-0, Katelyn Shortall, Katie Murphy 2-0, Elizabeth Cooke 1-0, Ellis Beatty 1-0. Subs Claragh Roche 1-0, Brea Carroll, Laura Beatty, Kayleigh Watkin, Shona Brennan, Amy Breen, Aisling Whelan, Sophie Callery, Orlaith Carroll, Aine Bowden Mullen, Rose Kennedy.

Bennettsbridge School Camogie team celebrating their County Final win over Danesfort last week

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of club lotto dated May 23. Numbers drawn were 5, 7, 15, 19 Bonus 17.

Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw. 1. Tanya Cody c/o Mary Cody. 2. Clare Breslin c/o M Doran. 3. Mary Bryan c/o JJ Cullen. 4. Aidan O’Dwyer c/o Ann Cullen.

5. Neil Loy. 6. Tasha Webster c/o Paddy Greene. 7. Molly Bán c/o Gerry Buckley. 8. James Kavanagh c/o online. 9. Andy O’Keeffe c/o Online. 10. Michael Henebry c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

THE DOC HANGS HIS BOOTS On Saturday morning last club members, family, friends and Official Kilkenny GAA officers, club officers, local politicians, ex club and county players and former chairpersons gathered in O’Loughlin Gaels Clubhouse to pay tribute to one of O’Loughlin Gaels’ best.

See Feature in sports section.

ITS JOHNS PARK OR NOWHERE ON SATURDAY. On Saturday next, June 3rd, UPMC Nowlan Park will host the Senior Football Championship match between Kildare and Dublin. This will be a great occasion and one O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club will be ready for. Parking, clubhouse facilities and a big Kilkenny welcome for all visiting supporters. The grounds are easily accessible just off the motorway link road and situated directly opposite Nowlan Park. It’s ideal so tell your friends travelling.

GOWRAN PARK The next race meetings takes place on Monday 5th June at 2.05pm.

Complimentary Shuttle Bus service will leave from Kilkenny City Centre (just above the gates of Kilkenny Castle) one hour before the first race.

MOLLY’S TRIFT SHOP Open Saturdays from 10a.m -3p.m at Dalton House, 100% of proceeds go towards supporting the elderly in the parish. Come in and have a browse or leave a donation. Everything helps.

HALL NEWS Following the change back of the hall to the parish at the end of the lease, a number of the directors agreed to act as the Parish Hall (Community Centre) Committee under the direction of Fr Pat Dalton.

Following an insurance doubt the practice of serving teas in the hall after funerals had ceased. While there is insurance cover under the parish policy for such activity, Allianz Insurance insists that for effective insurance cover, refreshments must be served under Health and Hygiene regulations.

Responsibility for the provision of food is central to this which is very pertinent in the case of a claim of food poisoning. The parish carries the ultimate responsibility so on a funeral day it would be necessary for a responsible person to be there to oversee arrangements.

The Community Centre Committee with Fr. Dalton have had several meetings discussing ways to proceed. At a recent meeting the following options were agreed.

1. The Community Hall is available for refreshments after funerals with a recognised caterer being hired by the bereaved family to cater for the food and its service.

2. The hall could be available for refreshments after funerals where the sandwiches are made and delivered by one who has a food licence for sandwich making and packing.

For this to work the Community Hall committee would need to have a person in charge on the day to oversee that all the regulations in relation to health and hygiene were being adhered to.

Discussion are on-going in relation to this matter and if anyone is interested in helping out in this regard they can contact the following persons:- Ann Marie Mahon 086 3732338 or Paula Nolan 087 2222122.

The victorious Roinn A Clara school team with their mentors

CHURCH NEWS MASS Weekday masses this week, Thursday morning 10.30am.

GATHERING GROUP A large group attended in Billy’s Tearooms last Wednesday for afternoon tea. A scrumptious selection of various savouries and confections were enjoyed.

LOTTO No winner of Jackpot last week. Numbers, 1, 6, 11, 25. Jackpot now €7,450.00. Consolation Prizes, Kay Cody, Stroan, Sheila Kinsella, Ballyreddin, BB Syndicate, Rosie c/o Fr Duggan, Ronan Lynch, c/o O’Mahony’s.

SCHOOL CAMOGIE Bennettsbridge School Camogie team won the County final on 22nd May beating Danesfort. At half time the team had a comfortable lead of 4 goals. In the second half the girls fought hard and extended the lead further. The ‘Bridge girls ran out comfortable winners at the finish.

Player of the match was Katie Mulcahy. After the match players and mentors had a meal in Amber Restaurant, sponsored by PJ Cullen. PJ presented the girls with their medals. Thanks went to Centra for sponsorship and to Amber Restaurant for looking after the team so well.

Team: Lucy Maher, Alice Nelson, Lily Mai Meighan, Alannah Drea, Lily Dooley, Katie Mulcahy(Capt), Leah Croke, Kayla Wall(Capt), Amy Hughes, Ava Walsh, Isabel Nelson, Holly Meighan, Issy Brennan, Grace Dooley, Mary Cash, Saoirse Dooley, Lucy Fitzgerald, Leah Farrell.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the Mahon family, Blackwell on the death of Frankie Mahon, Melbourne, Australia and formerly of Blackwell, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny.

Frank died on 21st May 2023 in Melbourne. He is survived by his wife, Helen, daughter, Amy and son, Patrick. He is also mourned by his siblings, Tom, Anne, Eamonn, Jim, Noeleen, Teresa, Leo, Paul and Oliver. Frank will be greatly missed by his wife and children, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends. Frank’s Requiem Ceremony and burial takes place in Melbourne, Australia this week.

INTER COUNTY HURLING Bennettsbridge was represented in Wexford Park last Sunday by David Blanchfield who played wing back in the defeat to Wexford.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL FINAL Our junior football team lost out to St Patrick’s in the county final in Nowlan Park last Saturday evening. Two early goals conceded were the difference in the end as the ‘Bridge lost out on a score line of 2-9 to 13 points. Hard luck to all the lads and management team who had a good year in winning the league and just falling short in the championship.

BENNETTSBRIDGE GAA SCRAP METAL COLLECTION Many thanks to all who contributed to Bennettsbridge GAA recent scrap metal collection which had a very good response. Please

contact Leo 086-8861906 or Tim 086-3441652 if anyone has more scrap to donate and they will arrange collection.

CLUB HURLING The junior E team play Erin’s Own at home next Monday evening at 7.30.

Underage Games. Our under 13 team play Clara at home this Friday at 7 pm. The 13 a side under 13 team lost out to Gowran by two points in the league. They play Paulstown at home this Saturday at 10.30. Our school team had a great win over Tullogher to qualify for the county semi-final.

MEMBERSHIP 2023 Membership for 2023 is now being collected by registrar Samantha McGarry or any committee member. Membership remains the same as last year. 120 for adult players, 80 for student players and 40 euro for non-playing members. Early payment would be most appreciated as the bills for 2023 are now due.

GOLF CLASSIC 2023 The 2023 golf classic will take place in Gowran Park on June 9th this year. All support welcome in the form of teams or in sponsorship.

Many thanks for the support.

HURLERS CO-OP DRAW Hurlers Co-op draw tickets are now on sale through all committee members. Prizes to the value of 125,000 are on offer including three cars and two holidays. The first of 5 draws will take place on June 13th. Tickets cost 50 euro and half of all tickets sold is returned to the club.

SPLIT THE POT The next draw takes place today at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Envelopes are available around the village. If you want to play online with club force please see the clubs Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.

GAA A busy week was head by St. Patrick’s GAA. It was great to have the club return to football action this year and the large numbers who committed had a good league performance, and championship to see them reach the junior county semi final on Wednesday night against Galmoy in Freshford where they booked their county final place against Bennettsbridge on a scoreline of 5-8 to 1-3.

The final was played on Saturday evening in Nowlan Park in front of a large Ballyragget support. The game started off with Bennettsbridge opening the scoring in the first minute. The game was a competitive game with both teams putting in a strong performance throughout it was in the 9th minute that St. Patrick’s broke ahead with a pass from Eamon (Ned) Glennon to Dillion Lawless who put it securely in the back of the net. On the kickout the ball was once again won by St Patrick’s and in similar style to mere seconds before Eamon passed to Dillion for his second goal in less than a minute. The Bennettsbridge side made a strong come back and the first half ended on a scoreline of Bennettsbridge 0-10 to St Patrick’s 2-3.

The second half was once again a great game of football with both teams very much in the frame right to the end, it was a great relief to the St Patrick’s side when the whistle blew in the 62nd minute and with the ball in Geoff Morrissey’s hands they were on the winning side on a scoreline of 2-9 to 0-13. In his speech captain Barry Staunton dedicated the win to Eoin Bergin who the team carry with them always.

Team JJ O’ Sullivan, Kevin Kelly, Geoff Morrissey, Dermot Brophy, Paul Ryan, Geoff Brennan, Mark Staunton, Barry Staunton, Bill Staunton, Sean Brennan, Eamon Glennon, Jack Morrissey, Dillion Lawless, Conor Foley, Robbie Healy, Substitution Donal Brennan for Sean Brennan. Team management JJ O Sullivan, Kieran Delaney, Ger Staunton, Brendan Dooley, Paddy Cahill.

Phelan/Stone M&A Coaches tournament 2023 took place under great weather Thank you goes to every team that took part in our tournament this year. To all our stewards and umpires who were vital in the smooth running of the whole weekend and for the safety of all those who were coming and going over the two days thank you.

Thank you to Aisling Farrell (Stone) Michael Dowling (M&A coaches) and Michael Dooley (Phelan) representing their respective families for presenting the medals. To all who donated either some goods for the kitchen or donated their time towards the hospitality provided over the weekend.

Thanks to those who provided the catering both days- we really appreciate your time and effort and we were thrilled to have you there and to Donal Brennan for arranging it for us. A big thank you to the referees who don’t have an easy job and it was two very long days and a lot of matches so we are delighted to have you there and for doing

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

47

kilkennyobserver.ie

News Community & GAA Notes Ballyragget Junior Football Champions

the judges. It would be great if people would volunteer to pick up rubbish in their own area to keep our parish tidy. We would appeal to motorists to refrain from throwing litter out of cars as plastic items, etc, can be harmful to the environment and does nothing for the beauty of our countryside JAMES CLEARY RIP The death has occurred of James (Jimmy) Cleary, Heywood Terrace, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary and formerly of Ballinastick, Coalbrook, Thurles on Thursday the 25th May. Predeceased by his brother Paddy and sister Sr. Agnes (Kitty). Deeply regretted by his brothers Tommy (Coventry) and Richie (Curraheenduff), sisters-in-law Margaret and May, nieces, nephews, relatives and his friends and the staff at Heywood Terrace. James reposed at his niece Alison Blackmore’s residence last Sunday evening. Removal took place on Monday morning to St’s Patrick and Oliver Church, Glengoole for Funeral Mass, followed by burial in adjoining Cemetery. May James rest in peace.

Ballyragget Naomh Brid Under 12 Team such a wonderful job.

Thanks to Pat Farrell who as always does such a good job capturing a special weekend. Thank you to the volunteers who keep the pitch and grounds so well. Congratulations to our three champions for this year- O Loughlin Gaels(C) Graigue Ballycallan (B) and TynaghAbbey/ Duniry(A) of Galway.

TIDY TOWNS Tidy Towns: the work continues this year with painting and weeding on the Kilkenny road being completed. Many thanks to everyone for their continued work and support. Flower boxes of remembrance are still available if you wish to book one.

CAMOGIE Naomh Brid Camogie played against Conahy in the junior Camogie and were narrowly defeated in a close contest. The under 12 girls were victorious over The Harps in Cullahill on Saturday morning.

FAMILY FIELD FESTIVAL A Family Field Festival will be held on June 25th at 1pm in the sports field on the Rathdowney Road. Lots of exciting things going on to suit all ages, music, craft stalls, food trucks, sports, games, funfair and more. In conjunction with the festival there will be a Dog Show at 2pm .Registration in the field from 12.30pm. €5 first dog and €2 extra dog. All classes, big, toy, gun, best dressed, dog you would like to take home and more.

NUTRITION CLUB As from May 30th, the Nutrition Club will be held in St. Mary’s Hall, due to St. Kieran’s Hall being closed for renovations.

PARISH FETE AND DOG SHOW Kilcooley Fertagh group of parishes are holding a Parish Fete and dog show in Kilcooley Church Grounds on Sunday June 11th from 1pm.

Attractions include Bottle Stall, BBQ, Cake and Plant stalls, vintage clothing, Raffle Teas/Coffee. Entries for the dog show from 1 to 2pm with judging at 2pm. €5 for first dog and €2 for extra. Usual classes to be judged.

MRS MARY MACKEY (NEE HANRAHAN), DONOUGHMORE JOHNSTOWN Sympathy to the Mackey Family on the death of their mother Mary, who died peacefully, in her 92nd year, at the Sacred Heart Nursing Home, Crosspatrick recently. Predeceased by her son Jimi, husbands Jimmy Bowe and Paddy Mackey, brothers Joe, Matty and Sean, sons in law Eoghan Power and Michael O’Donnell. She will be greatly missed by her children Katherine, Marie, Patsy, John, Ann, Sadie and Geraldine, daughter in law Hilda, sons in law Gay, Eamon and Alex, grandchildren Sarah, Niamh, Laura, Roisin, Niall, Cian, James, Ted, Evie, Lily and Sean, nieces, nephews, relations and friends. Burial was in Johnstown Cemetery after Requiem Mass in St. Kieran’s Church.

SPA UNITED AFC The season ended at the weekend with both U12 boys squads in cup final action. Unfortunately for both, it wasn’t to be on their big day, as both lost out in two thrilling games. First up was the white squad whose game went all the way to penalties after a 1-1 draw after extra time. Harry Cooke was the scorer in normal time but the penalties didn’t go the boy’s way. The red squad left nothing in defeat on the pitch after an enthralling cup final against Bridge Utd. where they lost out 2-0. The full list of results..U12 plate semi final Bridge United 1 Spa 2. U12 plate final Spa 1 Stoneyford 1 (Stoneyford won on penalties 3-2), U12 cup semi final Spa 1 Freebooters 0, U12 cup final Spa 0 Bridge 2, U13 cup semi final Evergreen 3 Spa 1.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO Lotto numbers drawn 11,12,16,21 two match threes Mary Henderson and Nora Sweeney.

EUCHARIST ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 11am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 11am to 1pm MASS TIMES Parish Pastoral Combination Weekend Mass Times - St. Patrick and Oliver Church Glengoole - Saturday 6pm, Sacred Heart Church Gortnahoe - Sunday 10.30am.Cathedral of the Assumption Thurles Saturday 7pm, Sunday 9am & 11am. StJosephs and St. Brigid, Bohernanave - Sunday 10am & 7pm, St. Peter in Chains Church Moycarkey Saturday 6.30pm, St. James Church Two Mile Borris - Sunday 10.30am and Our Lady, St. Kevins Church Littleton - Sunday 12 noon, St. Marys Church Moyne - Saturday 7.30pm, Sacred Heart Church Templetuohy - Sunday 11am CHURCH COLLECTION The annual collection for the Education of Priests was taken up last weekend. The Parish council would also like to thank parishioners for their weekly envelope collection for the support of each Church.

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

GLENGOOLE DEVELOPMENT GROUP Please complete the survey of needs for the Glengoole area which is taking place over this week. All are welcome to Glengoole development meeting next Tuesday the 6th June at 7.30pm in Glengoole Hall.

GORTNAHOE PLAYSCHOOL The official opening of the extension to Gortnahoe Community Hall incorporating the new playschool took place last Friday 26th May. There was a great crowd to see the new development and were very impressed with it. We’d like to thank Fr. Joe Walsh for blessing the building. We would like to thank the Hall Committee, playschool staff, parents and children and anyone else associated with the opening.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106 GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time.

Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to last weekend’s winner, Fionnuala Doheny from Freshford, who won €339 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of June will be in support of the Camogie Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated RUBBISH COLLECTION It was great to see individuals and groups picking up rubbish on the side of the road throughout our parish over the last few weeks.

The Tidy Towns inspections are taking place at the moment and it is hoped that groups in every village work together to impress

HURLING The junior E hurlers played host to Piltown on Sunday evening last in Jenkinstown in their latest game in the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Junior E League. After a slow start, Conahy fought back well late in the first half to level the scores at 0-9 apiece. Two early second half goals saw Conahy take the lead, but Piltown soon responded with two of their own to level the scores again. Piltown finished the stronger in the final quarter, and eventually won out by 2-18 to 2-13.

Hard luck also to Tom Phelan who was part of the Kilkenny senior team that was defeated by Wexford in the Leinster Senior Championship in Chadwicks Wexford Park on Sunday last.

CAMOGIE Conahy Camogie Club were represented by Róisín Phelan, Ellen Gunner and Emma Mulhall as well as Danielle Morrissey as part of the backroom team on the Kilkenny Intermediate camogie panel who defeated Dublin in the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship on Saturday last.

GAA SUMMER CAMP Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Bórd na nÓg will once again host a ‘Future Stars’ Summer Camp this year. It will take place in the Polo Grounds, Jenkinstown from Tuesday 1st August to Thursday 3rd August (inclusive). The Camps is open to Boys and Girls between the ages of five and twelve and will take place on each of the three days from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. (with a lunch break from 12.00 p.m. until 12.45 p.m. Detailed and quality coaching will be given to all participants and Kilkenny Inter-County Players will contribute to the coaching, subject to their availability. Registration can be done online via the GAA club website – www.conahyshamrocks.gaa.ie .

GRAVEYARD MASSES The annual Graveyard Mass for Conahy Cemetery will take place on this Sunday, June 4th at 11.30 a.m., while the Kilmacar Cemetery Mass will take place on Thursday next, June 8th at 7.30 p.m.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 28, 33 and 42. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Thomas Walsh, Helena Comerford, Christy and Marie Kennedy, Jake Dooley and Julie Jackman. The promoters’ prize winners were Shay Healy, Kay Phelan and Nora Delaney.

LOTTTO RESULTS Results for 22/05/23. Numbers drawn were 5; 10; 12; 21. Lucky Dip winners were Mairead Bannon, Danny Butler and Suzanne O’Brien.

Sellers’ prizes went to Martin McGrath and Ann Young. Next week’s jackpot will be €13,600 and will take place on 29th May at 9pm.

COFFEE MORNING THANKS The Murphy Family, Ballydunne, would like to thank everyone who supported the Annual Coffee morning, Cake sale and Raffle in Aid of Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team on Sunday 7th May in Ballycallan Community Hall. The sum of €2175.00 was raised.

A big thank you to all who baked, donated raffle prizes and enjoyed the cuppa on the day, and purchased some of the beautiful home baking. Thanks to Ballycallan Community Hall for the use of the hall and to Paul for having it all laid out, to Siobhan for her posters and printing of tickets and to the many people who helped on the day.

Once again, the family appreciate all your support towards this very worthy cause.

CHURCH JUBILEE On June 22nd, we will hold a special Mass to celebrate the golden jubilee of Kilmanagh Church. Bishop Niall Coll will be the celebrant.

The Mass will be followed by refreshments and entertainment. All are welcome to attend.

Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 25th May. Nos: 2 13 14 27.

Jackpot: €9650 Not Won Draw Prizes. €50: Kieran Boyle c/o Online. €25 each Top Gun Tommy c/o T Hackett €25 each Belinda Mockler c/o Online. €25 each Pat Comerford T & J Knox c/o online Hurlers Co Op Ciaran Hoyne c/o Ann Morrissey. Promotors prize Declan Gough

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

Vigil - Saturday 3rd. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 4th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford.

Wednesday and Friday at 7.00p.m. Vigil - Saturday 3rd. at 6.30p.m Saturday 3rd. Feast of St. Kevin.

Friday 2nd. First Friday. Home Visitation with Holy Communion will take place as usual on Friday. Please let us know if you would like to receive Holy Communion in your home on First Fridays or at any other time..

Cemetery Mass. Mass in Calvary Cemetery on Friday 2nd. June at 8.00p.m.; As the Cemetery Masses are about to take place we would appreciate if families could attend to their family graves before these Masses are celebrated.

Pray For. Helen Cleere, Templetouhy. Fr. Frank O’Gara, O.Carm. Dublin.

Anniversary Mass. Jim Doran, Stoneyford. Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 3rd. June at 6.30p.m.

Months Mind Mass: Kitty McBride, Monroe, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 3rd. June at 8.00p.m.

ROTA Rota for week-end 3rd. and 4th. June 2023. (Feast of the Most Holy Trinity) Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Catherine Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron, Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll.

Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen.

Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Murphy, Sunday 10.00a.m.

Kay Power.

AFTER SCHOOLFACILITY A kind, enthusiastic, patient, reliable person wanted to work in, or run, an After School Facility in Newmarket School from 1.30p.m. to 5.00 p.m. from Monday to Friday on school days. For further information please call 056 776 8919 CEMETERY MASSES Cemetery Masses arranged for 2023: Mass in Kilcasey Cemetery on Friday 16th. June at 8.00p.m. Mass in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 1st. July at 8.00p.m. Mass in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 7th. July at 8.00p.m.

GOLDEN JUBILEE Mass of Thanksgiving, (Golden Jubilee). The members of the Parish Pastoral Council would like to let you know that Fr. Liam will celebrate the Golden Jubilee of his Ordination to the Priesthood on June 10th.

There will be a Con-Celebration Mass in Hugginstown Church on that evening at 7:30pm. We welcome Bishop Niall Coll, to celebrate Mass with us on his first visit to the Parish. Mass will be followed by a social evening with refreshments in the Community Centre, Hugginstown.

Everyone is invited. No Mass in Stoneyford at 6.30p.m. or in Hugginstown at 8.00p.m. on 10th June.

NEWMARKET SCHOOL Official Opening and Blessing of the new classrooms will take place in the school on Thursday 8th. June at 7.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in the school and all are very welcome to attend.

PADRE PIO NATIONAL PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Holy Cross Abbey, Thurles on this Sunday 28th. May. Ceremonies will begin at 1.30p.m. If interested in travelling please contact, Kay Power 086 168 7073 or Lily Burke 056 776 8008 LOTTO Lotto: Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 22nd.

May 2023 Numbers: 27; 12; 20; 08. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: 5 x €30.00. Winners, Martin Treacy, Knocktopher, Liz O’Connor, Cork, Angela and Sadie Barron, Romansvalley, L. P. J. c/o James Irish; Michael Walsh, Rathduff 3 x €15.00 (Sellers), Eilish Rohan, James Irish, Tommy Murphy..

ALONE “Alone” is a national organisation that enables older people to age at home across Kilkenny. Our work is for all older people and aims to improve their wellbeing. We have a National network of staff and volunteers who provide Support Coordination, Practical Supports, Befriending, a variety of Phone Services, Social Prescribing, Housing with Support and Assistive Technology. We use individualised support plans, to address health, financial benefits and supports, social care, housing, transport and other arising needs using technology and harness other services. We use personalised support plans, provide a point of contact for access to health, social care, housing, transport and other arising needs. If you or an Older Person you know needs help of any kind please contact “Alone” on 0818 222 024, lines open 7 days a week; 8.00am to 8.00p.m. or email: hello@alone.ie or contact Liz Nolan, (Support Coordinator) Mobile Number: 086 108 6504.

ST KIERAN’S HOME FOR THE ELDERLY Applications are invited for tenancy of one-bedroom accommodation at St Kieran’s Place. Application forms are available from the Mill Family Resource Centre. Completed application forms should be returned to the Mill Family Resource Centre no later than Friday 9th June 2023 L.T.I PATHWAY TO EMPLOYMENT COURSE QQI LEVEL 4 There are still some placements available on our L.T.I. Programme which is due to start in May. If interested, please call the Resource Centre on 056-88-38466 or call into us here at the office.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus.

General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression.

Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

DEFIBRILLATOR Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any further clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

CONTACT NUMBER Contact number for the Centre 056-8838466

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

kilkennyobserver.ie

Tribute

­

The Doc hangs up his boots On Saturday morning club members, family and friends and Official Kilkenny GAA officers, club officers, local politicians, ex club and county players and former chairpersons gathered in O'Loughlin Gaels Clubhouse to pay tribute to one of O'Loughlin Gaels' best.

Damien O'Connell has been synonymous with youth development, schools' participation, games promotion and more significantly managing the preparation, promotion and distribution of match day programs at Nowlan Park for over a quarter of a century. Former Chairman and friend Eddie Buckley led the tributes to a packed room of well-wishers for a special coffee morning organised to mark the event. Eddie took the audience through Damien's impact in the club's

development through four decades noting his generous attitude towards those who required a 'leg up' in life consequently setting them up on the right pathway to their futures. Eddie also paid tribute to Damien's wife Joan and family who was always very welcoming and appreciative of the time Damien afforded to club activities. A presentation was made to Joan by club secretary Joan Galwey. Club chairman Johnny Holohan made a presentation to our guest of honour of a collage of images depicting Damien's time at St. John's Park and Nowlan Park.

The club would like to thank Damien for all his good work at the club and acknowledge the positive impact that work has had on the development of O'Loughlin Gaels to what it is today. Enjoy your retirement DOC ..it's well deserved .

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

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Sport

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary

Tullaroan Marathon

The Tullaroan Marathon is a staple in The June Bank Holiday Weekend Calendar and with the event making a welcome return last year following the Covid outbreak, this year's event can expect to have greater numbers with participants registering from across Ireland and abroad.

There is a variety of distances for anyone who is taking part tomorrow and that includes The

Ultra Marathon which is about 40 Miles Long.

There is also the normal Full Marathon which is 26 Miles (40KM), Half Marathon (13 Miles), 10KM and 5KM. Whatever distance you choose to run, there will be plenty of thrills in the hills among the spectacular scenery on what is a wonderful event for all the family.

The action will commence from 7am tomorrow morning(Saturday) with The Ultra Marathon, and a Be Spoke Medal will be on show for finishers along with the famous Tullaroan T-Shirt for all finishers of The Ultra Marathon, Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10KM. The Tullaroan Marathon has grown each year since

Dealing with a poor race performance EOIN EVERARD Part 1

God knows I know all about this one! While I might have All Ireland titles and some very good times to my name I have had a host of bad races. Don’t let the defeats go to your heart and the victories go to your head is an expression I try live by. With that being said here is some advice about getting over a bad performance and making sure you don’t get into a negative cycle 1. Think positive As cliché as it may sound, "glass half-full" individuals tend to perform better over the long-term than "half-empty" personalities. As acclaimed sport psychologist Stan Beecham notes in his best-selling book Elite Minds, "Those who can finish even the worst of competition and training periods by noting where advancements were made will almost always outperform those who first point out failures."

What to do?

Begin with an old-school checklist. No matter your disappointments, write a list of what is going well. Perhaps you averaged more overall volume than ever before. Did

you implement a new strength routine? Perhaps you tried a different race strategy. Even if it didn't work out, that is an experience that will benefit you later.

Remember to begin with the positives, because there are always positives. Mitigation can also be powerful. Did your marathon not go well due to heat and humidity? That isn't an excuse--it is a mitigating circumstance. Letting yourself off the hook is a sign of strength, not weakness.

2. Treat the race like you had run well- Take a rest One of the most common mistakes in endurance athletics is doubling down (a.k.a. intensifying training), when training and racing are not going well.

But nine times out of 10, those who double down dig themselves into a further hole and exacerbate whatever issue is contributing to their poor performance. I see this so much two runners compete one runs well the other does poorly. The person who ran well is conservative over the next few days allowing the body to recover and thus allowing further good performances. The person who ran poorly is frustrated and takes that frustration out by training harder, thus digging further into the hole.

As the late great British Coach Harry Wilson used to say, "Rest is not the absence of training,

but rather part of it." One of the best ways to begin hitting your reset button is to begin by taking a step back. My recommendation is a typical 20 to 22 rest cycle, consisting of 6 to 7 days total off from running (I recommend walking for continued blood flow), followed by 14 days of "day on, day off" running. On these days, you will alternate between short 25 to 30-minute runs for "on" days and no running for "off" days.

3. Request a second opinion Very few individuals can be wholeheartedly objective about their own training, particularly when things are not going well. If you're struggling with your training, have a knowledgeable and trustworthy coach or advisor review your logs. Often an in-depth look into the training and lifestyle habits of most athletes can be the key to reversing a downward trend.

It's worth noting that fitness and performance plateaus will happen in running, as with any other endurance sports.

Have you been implementing the same training volume and intensity for years and years? If so, you may want to make a few tweaks. While finding a sound philosophy that suits you is important, approaching training and racing the exact same way each year and expecting different results--well we all know what that's called.

the event began and with 14 Nationalities represented last year, it strongly emphasises the massive interest on a wider scale. Having attracted massive interest from around the world last year, several countries can be expected to be represented in an event that continues to grow and expand each year.

Last year included participants from the UK, the US and Africa, while several countries from around Europe had runners competing also that sums up the popularity of the event.

Apart from The Marathon, Tullaroan Athletics Club has a number of major events throughout the year. On Easter Sunday morning, they appropriately hold their annual Easter Sunday Bunny Run as The Easter Bunny makes an appearance. The Easter Bunny Run is a family fun filled morning that brings the community together in such a wonderful atmosphere on a very special day.

Another event they run is the aptly named "Run Off The Pudding" that is held over The Christmas period. The "Run Off The Pudding" has a variety of distances almost identical to tomorrow's Marathon, as on the

day their is a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10KM and 5KM. It's a perfectly named event at Christmas, and a most perfect opportunity to work off t he Christmas calories.

As well as The Tullaroan Marathon, their is a BeSpoke Medal for anyone who completes The Easter Sunday Bunny Run and The "Run Off The Pudding".

There is a wonderful community spirit particularly among the events hosted by Tullaroan Athletics Club, and that will most certainly be seen tomorrow with The Tullaroan Marathon.

It will begin from 7am tomorrow morning (Saturday) with The Ultra Marathon and with the other races following on afterwards, Tullaroan will be very busy all day in particular for an event where preparations would have begun several months ago.

Stewards will be busy and they will be spread out at various points for the respective races, and with a whole host

of Volunteers enthusiastically getting involved in helping out for the occassion, it helps ensure the smooth running of what will be a wonderful day out.

As mentioned, The Ultra Marathon commences proceedings from 7am tomorrow morning(Saturday), followed by the Full Marathon at 8.30am, Half Marathon at 9.30am, 10KM at 10am, with The 5KM starting at 10.15am.

There will be plenty of water stops across the various distances, while at various stops their will be Coca Cola, Jellies and Fruit.

For anyone who has registered for tomorrow, they can collect their number from 6.30pm to 8pm this evening (Friday) and also tomorrow morning (Saturday) from 6am until 30 minutes before the start of the race they are entered in. Check out tullaroanmarathon.com for further details on tomorrow's race.

This a family friendly event for every member of the family to enjoy on what will be a great day out.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

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Hurling matters - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster Senior Hurling Championship Chadwicks Wexford Park Wexford 4-23 Kilkenny 5-18 It’s hard to know where to begin. This contest had a little bit of everything, a delayed start, goals galore, injuries, points, Eoin Cody at the treble, the enigmatic Lee Chin hitting 1-10 and a result which meant Kilkenny will face-off against Galway in the Leinster final next week while Wexford secured their senior hurling status for 2024.

All in the space of 70-odd minutes in a sunny and packed Chadwicks Wexford Park.

Just under 9,800 witnessed the spectacle that had social media going into overdrive on Sunday evening.

Gaels asked “How could Westmeath beat Wexford but Kilkenny couldn’t?”

That was probably a watered-down version of many comments.

Derek Lyng made three changes to the starting team named in advance of the final group game clash. Padraig Walsh, Walter Walsh and Billy Drennan came in for Richie Reid, Paddy Deegan and Billy Ryan respectively. Interestingly, Mikey Carey and Richie Hogan were also added to the sub’s bench.

The game started at a hectic pace with the home side getting the scoreboard moving courtesy of a Lee Chin free in the opening minute.

Kilkenny’s response in the sunshine was emphatic. Thomastown’s John Donnelly went on one of his marauding runs as the gap opened up in front of him. The centreforward found his captain with a lovely hand pass and the Shamrocks Ballyhale man rifled the sliotar beyond James Lawlor in the Wexford goal.

Adrian Mullen and Lee Chin exchanged points from play, before the second green flag of the day was raised. Walter Walsh took possession and once again made straight for the danger zone. The Yellowbellies defence parted like the red sea and the Tullogher Rosbercon man said thank you very much. Walter popped a pass to his left where Martin Keoghan was lurking and Mossy did what Mossy does – Goal! A 5-point lead after just 5 minutes, 2 majors already – crazy stuff!

Rapparees Kevin Foley then pointed to try and settle the home crowd’s undoubted nerves, but the Cats hit the next three score, all from play via Eoin Cody and Conahy Shamrocks Tom Phelan with a lovely brace. The first of three enforced Kilkenny substitutions then arrived in the 11th minute with Erins Own’s Conor Delaney replacing O’Loughlin’s Mikey Butler. Wexford got the next two points, thanks to efforts from Rory O’Connor and Chin while the second sub appeared for the visitors as Billy Ryan replaced Tullaroan’s Mossy Keoghan on 13

Everything but the win!

Cats Croker bound for provincial decider

Adrian Mullen -one of 3 players forced off injured

minutes.

The Noresiders reeled off the next three scores, again, all from play. TJ Reid with two and Walter Walsh with one to leave the men in black and amber 8-points up after 16 minutes of end to end action. Darragh Eagan then made a change to the home side’s XV, with Horeswood’s Conor Foley replacing St Martin’s Joe O’Connor in the full-back line as they sought to shore things up a little. Rory O’Connor and Tom Phelan swapped points before the Slaneysiders first major arrived.

A long searching ball was claimed

by Jack O’Connor and as the St Martin’s man tried to progress, it appeared the Cats defence had held him up, but Cork Whistler Colm Lyons signaled for a penalty, much to the confusion of the Huw Lawlor

and Co. Lee Chin stepped forward and rifled the dead ball past the diving Eoin Murphy and reduced the deficit for the home side to 5 points.

Kilkenny were then forced to make their 3rd change of the opening period when Adrian Mullen picked up a rather nasty looking hand injury. The Shamrocks Ballyhale man was replaced by Erin’s Own’s Conor Fogarty with about 10 minutes remaining of the first half.

TJ Reid then popped over a point from the placed ball before the home crowd were treated to their sides second major of the game. Oisin Foley went on a run before spotting the clever run of his midfielder Kevin Foley. Oisin popped the pass to Kevin who drove the sliotar past the helpless Eoin Murphy in the Kilkenny goal. The crowd went wild.

We now had a game on our hands, the gap was just 3 points.

The Yellowbellies tails were up – another three points followed, Conor McDonald and Rory O’Connor from play and a free from Lee Chin.

31 minutes played and the game was level. TJ Reid briefly fired the Cats back into the lead but further points from Lee Chin and Diarmuid O’Keefe saw Darragh Eagan’s side surprisingly go into the interval one point to the good on a scoreline of Wexford 2-11, Kilkenny 2-10.

When play resumed in sun drenched Chadwicks Wexford Park, Kilkenny drew level early on, thanks to a lovely ‘65 from TJ Reid. The home sides version of TJ, Lee Chin then dispatched another free before Graigue Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan fired over a fine point. Then came

major number five. Again, Faythe Harriers Lee Chin was at the heart of the move. With his back to goal Chin managed to scoop a hand pass into the path of the on running Liam Og McGovern. The Rathangan player took aim and once again left Cats netminder with no chance, Wexford now led by 3.

Wexford’s blistering start to the second period continued with vigor.

Chin popped over a ‘65, before McGovern turned goal-getter again.

Billy Ryan got turned over in defence and Conor McDonald found Kevin Foley with a nicely weighted pass.

The Rapparees man skillfully flicked the sliotar into the path of McGovern who was halted illegally by Padraig Walsh. Referee Lyons was playing the advantage, but Liam Og had the presence of mind to bat the ball to

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

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Hurling matters - Review Tom Phelan gets in his tackle on Lee Chin

Oisin Foley swapped points before goal number nine arrived. Eoin Cody burst onto the loose ball and cut in from the left as once again huge gaps appeared in the home defence. Goalkeeper James Lawlor came out to try and narrow the angle, but the Cats skipper shortened his grip on the hurl and finished to the net. The Cats had the regained the lead, but in this game nothing was certain. Lee Chin fired over a brace of points to deadlock matters again before two quick scores from sub Cathal Dunbar and Oisin Foley put The Yellowbellies two up. TJ sent over a placed ball but the final score of the game came from lively sub Dunbar who secured the victory and ensured a seat at the top table for the Slaneysiders on a final scoreline of Wexford 4-23, Kilkenny 5-18.

Scorers for Wexford: L Chin (0-10, 0-6 frees, 0-1 ‘65’); L Og McGovern (2-1); K Foley (1-1); R O’Connor (0-4); Jack O’Connor (1-0 penalty); C Dunbar (0-2, 0-1 sideline); O

Eoin Cody finds his way blocked as he heads towards goal

the net. The Slaneysiders were seven points up and flying.

Derek Lyng then threw on Glenmore’s Alan Murphy in place of Billy Drennan as he looked to wrestle back control of the game.

Kilkenny needed to respond and fast. Tullaroan’s Padraig Walsh then split the posts with a quality effort. Another couple of minutes passed, then another goal. Eoin Cody picked up possession around the Wexford ‘45. The captain turned on the afterburners and sprinted towards goal. The Shamrocks man had only one thing on his mind – goal and that was the inevitable outcome.

TJ & Lee exchanged free’s before the recently introduced Alan Murphy split the posts with a quality point. Wexford full-back Liam

McDonald (all 0-1).

Scorers for Kilkenny: E Cody (31): TJ Reid (0-7, 0-4 frees, 0-1 ‘65’); T Phelan (1-4); M Keoghan (1-0); P Walsh, A Mullen, W Walsh, A Murphy, C Delaney and B Ryan (all 0-1).

WEXFORD: J Lawlor; Joe O’Connor, L Ryan, C Devitt; S Donohoe, M O’Hanlon, I Carty; D O’Keeffe, K Foley; Jack O’Connor, L Og McGovern, O Foley; R O’Connor, C McDonald, L Chin.

Subs: C Foley for Joe O’Connor (19); C Dunbar for Jack O’Connor (55); C Hearne for Foley (65); M Dwyer for McGovern (69).

KILKENNY: E Murphy; M Butler, H Lawlor, T Walsh; D Blanchfield, P Walsh, D Corcoran; A Mullen, W Walsh; T Phelan, J Donnelly, B Drennan; M Keoghan, TJ Reid, E Cody.

Subs: C Delaney for Butler (13); B Ryan for Keoghan (14); C Fogarty for Mullen (25); A Murphy for Drennan (49); C Buckley for Walsh (66) Referee: C Lyons (Cork).

>> SHERRY SAYS..

Eoin Murphy Fails to Block penalty from Wexford

Ryan then got on the scoresheet before Tom Phelan took over. The Conahy Shamrocks player fired over a fine point before he got in on the goal act. Phelan like his captain minutes earlier had tunnel vision and accelerated towards

home netminder James Lawlor.

Tom showed great skill and balance before rifling his shot beyond Lawlor to leave just the bare minimum between the sides with about 22 minutes played in the second half.

Conor Delaney and the impressive

Hard to know where to start. Kilkenny are through to the Leinster final where they will once again tackle to challenge of Henry’s Galway.

Chadwick Wexford Park provided the backdrop to an insane game of hurling.

NINE goals, 41 points, A hat-trick for captain Eoin Cody, Lee Chin superb, an eye-catching performance from Top Phelan and Derek Lyng forced into 3 first-half changes as injuries claimed Mikey Butler, Mossy Keoghan and the influential Adrian Mullen. Time is a great healer, but in such a condensed season, the Emeralds man will be a little worried at the number of his players on the treatment table at present.

Worth mentioning (this is not sour grapes!!) What appeared to be a lovely point from Padraig Walsh that wasn’t given and Alan Murphy’s goal that was chalked-off for an innocuous infringement. Anyway, some days you get the rub of the green, some you don’t.

On a crazy last day in Leinster, Westmeath exited the senior ranks having lost heavily to Antrim. Galway made the provincial final and produced a high-octane 2nd half to claim a share of the spoils in the Captial.

This was a chance to pull the rug from under Wexford’s feet, but to Darragh Eagan’s men’s credit, they did what they needed to do. That’s their business. Now let’s plan for another meeting with Henry.

Foley (0-2); L Ryan, D O’Keeffe, C

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

Motors Classifieds

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

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Call 056 7771463 for all your classified advertisements

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023

Planning notices Online

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Kieran Varley intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission to build a dwelling house, detached domestic garage, secondary effluent treatment system and soil polishing filter, private bore well, new entrance and all associated site development works at Legan, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Elizabeth Power intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain as follows: 1. extension to the side and rear of existing dwelling house, 2. domestic shed and carport, 3. domestic home office, 4. Planning Permission to install a secondary treatment system and polishing filter and all associated site works at Baunreagh, Clonmoran, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211) intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client William & Tom Costigan.

Permission to construct (i) Calf shed (ii) New roof over existing cubicle and tank with loose straw area (iii) Dung stead and all associated site works. Demolition of (i) roof over existing cubicle (ii) Cubicle shed is also required at Ballyspellan, Johnstown, 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is sought by Cathal Dempsey to construct a new single story dwelling house and a new entrance driveway, provision of a new sewage treatment plant, borewell & percolation area and all associated site developments works at Buckstown Hill, Mullinavat, County 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.

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Bernard O’Flaherty intend to apply to above authority for permission for the following at Leylandii, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny. (a) Fitting of 2 No. Dormer Windows in front pitch of cottage roof (b) Relocation of Velux Windows to rear pitch of cottage roof (c) New front boundary wall consisting of block wall mounted Wrought Iron Fencing with vehicular gate and personnel gate. (d) Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

RITA TREHY ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

PHILIP (PHIL) DROHAN 10TH ANNIVERSARY

Rita, SOS, Sycamores Retirement Home and formerly of Emmet Street, Kilkenny City Who died 11th May 2023.

In loving memory of Phil, late of 66 Old Newpark, Kilkenny whose anniversary occurs at this time.

Rita’s family would like to thank all those who sympathised with them on their recent sad loss.

Our gratitude to all those who attended the rosary, funeral Mass and burial. To all who sent Mass cards, donations to SOS and all who posted condolences on RIP.ie, we are truly grateful for all your kind words and support.

That man is a successwho leaves the world better than he found it; who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.

The family in particular would like to thank the management, staff and clients of SOS for all their love and kindness they showed to Rita and family for so many years. Thanks also to the wonderful doctors, nurses and staff in St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, who looked after Rita and us as a family at a very difficult time.

A special thank you to Fr. Richard Scriven for a beautiful funeral Mass, the sacristan and to Noreen Cooney and Mary Butler for providing the lovely music. Thanks also to Michael Slattery and team in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Danesfort.

Always loved, never forgotten, You are but a breath away.

Mary, Colin, John and family.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 4th June at 11.30am in St John’s Church, Kilkenny.

The Blessed Virgin (never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request. (Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. P.K..

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.P.K.

Finally, sincere thank you to Michael and Breda Shasby Funeral Directors for their professional, kind and caring manner throughout this very trying time.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

Rita’s Month Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 4th June at 11.00am in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.T.J.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.DM.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 02 June 2023