Kilkenny Observer 02 May 2025

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Funchion: ‘trust issues’ Former partner Sean Tyrell handed down sentence for harassment

MEP and former Sinn Fein Carlow/Kilenny TD Kathleen Funchion has described her “issues with trust” following her former partner being found guilty under Coco’s Law. Funchion’s former partner Sean Tyrell was jailed by Kilkenny Circuit Court on Monday, April 29 under Section 4 of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related

Offences Act 2020, which is also known as Coco’s Law. Funchion had given the court details of Tyrell’s actions that had inflicted considerable distress upon the Sinn Féin politician.

The two began a relationship in 2016.

Tyrell had made multiple false allegations that Funchion had been unfaithful during

their “dysfunctional” relationship, which had lasted on and off for around five to six years, the court heard.

After they had completely separated, Tyrell threatened to reach out to the partners of Funchion’s close friends and claim that they`– the close friends`– had been unfaithful.

He was sentenced to four months in prison, with a sepa-

rate four-month jail term suspended for two years.

Speaking to Brian Redmond on KCLR, Funchion described how her relationship with Tyrell began and her experience in Kilkenny Circuit Court.

“Control was a very serious issue and, right up until the end of the relationship, he had to have the control of the situation,” she said.

“And I think that’s something that can happen very subtly.

People don’t see it happen. You don’t wake up one day and realise that you’re potentially in a controlling situation.

“It happens over time, and it kind of happens in a way that makes you doubt yourself and makes you wonder, Am I seeing this correctly? Am I picking this up correctly? It really makes

Agri Aware is gearing up for an exciting and educational week as its flagship primary school programme, Incredible Edibles, marks the return of Healthy Eating Week from Tuesday, May 6 to Friday, May 9.

The week-long initiative will bring a focus on healthy eating and growing to schools through a series of in-person visits. With support from programme partners Dole Ireland, Country Crest, O’Shea Farms/Iverk Produce, and McCormack Family Farms, students can look forward to a week filled with fun activities, food, and learning about where their food comes from.

Maelyn Do (10) is pictured with class mates as part of Agri Aware Incredible Edibles healthy eating week.

PHOTO: Justin Farrelly Full story Page 6

Petmania tail wags despite hiccup

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He was commenting after the parent company of Petmania, O’Keeffe’s of Kilkenny, recorded a dip in profits last year after sales at its other businesses fell.

According to financial results released for O’Keeffes of Kilkenny, the company recorded a pre-tax profit of €1.63m in the year ended July 28, 2024.

The figure was down from €2.46m the previous year, a fall

See also Page 6

The jury is in for Cartoon Saloon top awards

Incredible Edibles!

The Managing Director of Petmania, Shane O’Keeffe, said he was positive about the results for the year, with sales at the pet retailer being up.

O’Keeffe said Petmania was holding sales steady this year, despite an industry downturn.

The industry has been hit by cost increases and pet ownership rates falling from record highs during the pandemic.

you feel like you’re actually going a bit crazy. And I think that that can be some of the reason that people don’t see the situation that they’re in.”

Funchion described her experience as “isolating” and said she was lucky to have had support from her friends and family, as well as local supports.

of more than €828,000.

Sales at the group, which also includes homeware, fell marginally to €38.09m in 2024. This was down just over €191,000 on the previous period.

Looking at the industry, O’Keeffe said he remained optimistic about the market and was still eager to grow the number of Petmania stores around the country.

It currently operates 17 shops nationwide.

The company opened a new Petmania store in Clonmel, Co Tipperary, in December, having completed a revamp of outlets in Tullamore last August and in Limerick two months ago.

O’Keeffe was currently trying to “lock in” new sites, especially in Dublin and Cork. His

team has been hunting for retail units sized between 418 sq m and 929 sq m.

The business is also trying to get ahead of trade tensions between the US and EU. Petmania is looking at moving the supply of some products away from the US to Europe. Products it is looking into shifting supply for include shampoos, dog collars and leads.

With 12 jury nods, Kilkenny’s Cartoon Saloon are leading the Irish Animation Awards 2025 race, followed closely by Brown Bag Films in Dublin which has 10 nominations and Belfast’s Sixteen South which has nine nominations.

The Best Feature Film or Special category sees Puffin Rock and the New Friends by Cartoon Saloon; Pinkalicious & Peterrific Special by Sixteen South in Belfast; The Magic Reindeer Saving Santa’s Sleigh by Moetion Films in Galway; Lu and the Bally Bunch from Brown Bag Films in Dublin; Hungry Bear Tales: To the Pole! by Treehouse Republic in Dublin all in close competition for the coveted gong.

Ireland’s globally renowned animation sector will gather together to celebrate creativity and innovation at the 2025 Irish Animation Awards in Galway on Saturday May 24. The nominees for this year’s awards have been announced by Animation Ireland, the representative trade body for animation studios across the island of Ireland.

More than 328 entries have been viewed and considered by the extensive Irish and international jury. A stellar 35 Irish productions across 23 categories are now in the running to scoop a prestigious award.

The awards are a biennial event, celebrating more than 2,500 highly skilled animation professionals who make and create across the island of Ireland, from Kilkenny to Galway, Belfast to Cork.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

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Telling it like it is.

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News Come and join Kilkenny’s Loreto Secondary School 4th year students and storyteller Helena Byrne as they perform stories gathered as part of the ‘Mná Feasa/Wise Women’ Project and celebrate the launch of the ‘Mná Feasa/ Wise Women’ Podcast Series.

Your diary date is Tuesday, May 6 in the Mayfair Library and all are welcome.

With the support of Kilkenny County Council Library Service and Heritage Office, this project celebrates the stories of older women living in and connected with the county of Kilkenny.

On November 3, 1324 in Kilkenny City, Petronilla of Meath became the first woman to be burned at the stake for witchcraft in the then British Isles. As maid to Dame Alice Kyteler, she was found guilty of heretical sorcery, having been tortured to illicit a confession.

Thankfully, the murmurs of witchcraft accusations have long faded from the streets of Kilkenny. The experiences of Kilkenny women in recent decades are far removed from the challenges faced by women of the 14th century.

Through Mná Feasa/Wise Women, the podcasts explore these experiences and give women of Kilkenny the voice that Petronilla of Meath was not afforded.

Inspired by Petronilla’s fate, the ‘Mná Feasa/Wise Women’ Project celebrates the stories of older women living in and connected with

Little Village Festival will be day of fun

Petronilla: and the voices of women today

the county of Kilkenny. The project has seen the launch of a brand new podcast series curated by Helena Byrne, following her visits and recorded conversations

with dozens of older women across Kilkenny county.

The project also includes wonderful stories gathered and performed by Loreto Secondary School 4th year

students, who worked with Helena for several months, developing their storytelling talents.

The ‘Mná Feasa/Wise Women’ podcast is avail-

able worldwide on all good podcast platforms. You can also listen via Helena’s website at the following link: https://helenabyrne.com/ mnafeasa/

Mullinahone’s first Little Village Festival will take place on Sunday, May 4, from 12pm to 6pm at the GAA pitch (E41R6P7). This exciting event in Tipperary promises a day full of family-friendly activities, live performances, delicious food, and more – all in celebration of our wonderful community.

The festival offers something for everyone, with a wide range of attractions that cater to all ages. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food options. The Agri Zone will feature animals from Nore Valley Farm and Agri Aware, providing a great opportunity for children and adults alike to learn about the animals that are a central part of rural life. If you’re in the mood for some classic fun, head over to the Carnival Zone, where you can try your hand at games like Hang Tough, soccer shootout, coconut shy, and more.

For younger visitors, the Kids Zone will offer arts and crafts, sand play, and a minidisco. Plus, a free games zone featuring Crazy golf, giant Jenga, Connect 4, and a sensory-friendly area will ensure everyone has a chance to join in the fun. And don’t miss out on the Tug-of-War Tournament, where teams from the village will compete for the title of ‘The Strongest Village!’

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TB compensation rate ‘outdated’ Farmers are potentially facing financial losses “in the thousands” for some cattle due to what farm organisations have described as “outdated” compensation rates for TB reactors.

The IFA, ICMSA and ICSA are calling for the removal of caps on payments under the department’s On-Farm Market Valuation Scheme, which they argue “do not

reflect the market reality”.

The scheme is the main compensation mechanism for herds affected by TB outbreaks, but it limits a farmer’s compensation to €3,000 for commercial (non-pedigree) TB reactors and €5,000 for pedigree cows, in-calf heifers and stock bulls.

A Department spokesperson said it “constantly monitors the above ceilings in re-

lation to current prices” and that “the amount of compensation is to be determined by way of assessment, by an independent valuer or an arbitrator in accordance with any appropriate guidelines, and legislation”.

The IFA has said that if the Department insists on maintaining a ceiling, it should be no less than €10,000 per animal.

Kilkenny multi-million euro social enterprise ‘committed to reducing’ carbon emissions by 20% FRS Co-Op, the Kilkenny based multi-million euro social enterprise, has committed to reducing their carbon emissions by 20% and halving their landfill waste by 2030 as part of their new sustainability strategy. The strategy was recently launched by FRS Co-Op to mark Earth Day 2025, a global annual event which aims to promote positive action in support of environmental protection.

In their first Environment, Social Governance (ESG) Report, FRS Co-Op is also aiming to develop a biodiversity strategy with a focus on agriculture, increase their community engagement and continue to provide support to the farming and wider communities in which they operate.

FRS Co-Op has also committed itself to aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Among the specific commitments made by FRS Co-Op are: • A 20% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 2030, working towards a net zero target by 2050.

• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the company’s vehicle fleet by 25% by 2030.

• A 50% cut in landfill waste by 2030, evolving to a target of zero waste by 2050.

• Installing solar renewable energy panels in their headquarters and their other largest office by 2026.

• Increasing their level of community engagement by 10% in 2025 through further participation in their ‘Give Back Days’ programme and additional partnerships with local organisations.

• Implementing a biodiversity strategy with a focus on agriculture this year.

• Continuing to support and assist farming communities across Ireland.

• Helping those who have had difficulty sourcing employment to find jobs.

Founded in 1980, FRS Co-Op is active in every town and

village across the country, employing 2,000 people across the group with annual turnover of circa €100 million. The different business units included in the group, who will all support this sustainability strategy, include FRS Recruitment, FRS Farm Services, FRS Fencing, FRS Training, FRS Contract Services, Turas Nua and WrkWrk. FRS Co-Op has already made significant progress in their sustainability efforts. This has included helping 62,000+ unemployed people secure meaningful employment through Turas Nua, providing 244 days of voluntary support to community and charity groups in 2024 and reducing their paper usage by 37,000 sheets per annum.

Additional achievements aligned with their ESG strategy include eliminating the use of 1,302 plastic water containers across the organisation, cutting 26.52 tonnes of carbon through the merging of office premises, conducting over 80,000 soil samples for farms around the country and supporting the use of environmentally friendly creosote alternatives for fencing throughout Ireland.

Speaking about their new sustainability strategy, Colin Donnery, Group CEO of FRS Co-Op said, “We strongly believe that organisations and businesses are of their communities, whether that’s in Kilkenny or other parts of the country.

“They are formed from and by the world around them, the world in which they operate.

That has been part of the ethos of FRS from Day 1. It’s why our corporate motto is “We Grow Better Together”.

“In this day and age there is scope for organisations to do more, which becomes even more acute when you are an organisation of the size and reach of FRS. That is why we have adopted this new sustainability strategy and why we want our commitments to act as more than just targets.

An ICMSA spokesperson said the ceiling needs to be increased “to reflect reality” and ensure that farmers can restock when their TB restrictions are lifted.

“No farmer wants to lose animals under a TB restriction, and an arbitrary ceiling on valuations is simply unfair.

“The market is volatile and fast-moving at present and for some pedigree and com-

mercial stock, the loss in value would be in the thousands in some cases.”

The spokesperson said the system should be based on replacement value rather than the current system of being “based on market value”.

“With prices moving rapidly at present, it is essential that prices are updated regularly to reflect market realities.”

ICSA Animal Health & Welfare chair John Barron said that in many cases, continental commercial cattle are worth “much more” than the €3,000 ceiling”.

Mr Barron claimed the ceilings are “only creating extra paperwork for the Department, with appeals and getting animals re-valued, which holds up the removal of reactors from farms”.

Bon appétit! Marcus O’Halloran, Executive Director Agri Aware, with Edwin Jijo Abraham, Ali Wall and Pete Reynolds all aged 10

Here’s to healthy eating!

Agri Aware is gearing up for an exciting and educational week as its flagship primary school programme, Incredible Edibles, marks the return of Healthy Eating Week from Tuesday, May 6 to Friday, May 9.

The week-long initiative will bring a focus on healthy eating and growing to schools through a series of in-person visits. With support from programme partners Dole Ireland, Country Crest, O’Shea Farms/Iverk Produce, and McCormack Family Farms, students can look forward to a week filled with fun activities, food, and learn-

ing about where their food comes from.

As part of the Healthy Eating Week roadshow, the Agri Aware team will visit primary schools, delivering hands-on learning experiences that inspire healthy habits and a love for growing food.

This year’s Healthy Eating Week will kick off on Tuesday, May 6 in Carlow, where Agri Aware and Dole Ireland will be joined by the Dole Fresh Fruit and Veg Truck to highlight the benefits of a healthy, balanced diet. Students will enjoy a live cooking demonstration and have the chance

to sample a freshly made smoothie.

Students will also meet special guests who incorporate healthy eating into their daily lives. Among them is Olympian and Irish Rugby Sevens player Amy Larn,.

Agri Aware Chairman Shay Galvin said: “Healthy Eating Week is an important milestone in students’ Incredible Edibles journey. We are delighted to be joined by our programme sponsors and we look forward to what promises to be an exciting and educational week on the school calendar.”

These workshops are delivered with the support of

our programme partners, and the continued success of the Incredible Edibles initiative would not be possible without the backing of all our valued sponsors, Bord Bia, Keelings, the Department of Health, the Department of Education, O’Shea Farms/Iverk Produce, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), and Quickcrop.

“The programme gives students a hands-on understanding of where their food comes from, and encourages them to build healthy habits by including more fruit and vegetables in their diets,” said Shay Galvin.

We risk ‘failure on renewable energy’ Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher has said that Ireland risks failing to capitalise on its potential as a possible renewable energy superpower because of a lack of grid capacity and interconnectors to mainland Europe.

Kelleher was commenting after an internal government analysis gave Ireland a 10% chance of meeting its Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) targets by 2030.

Experts are now predicting that just 1.4 GW of ORE will be installed by 2030.

“A failure to hit our targets will result in Ireland facing massive fines from the Euro-

pean Commission.,” Kelleher said.

“Progress has been made in recent years. One third of all electricity produced in the Republic last year came from onshore wind farms, and we have finally agreed to build an LNG facility,” he said.

“Ultimately, however, we are still highly dependent on imported fossil fuels, mainly gas, to power our economy.

To make matters worse, we are highly dependent on one gas line from Scotland to provide us with a significant proportion of our gas needs.

“Furthermore, when we finally electrify our transport

networks and roll out heat pumps in our homes, the demand for electricity will go through the roof.

“If Ireland actually achieved all of its renewable targets, we would end up dumping a lot of the electricity due to a lack of storage and a lack of interconnectors to mainland Europe where it could be sold, Kelleher said.

“Ireland must therefore invest in battery storage and in green hydrogen production to enable us to store or transport our excess energy.

To do otherwise would be a major error.”

We needed an urgent plan

to increase our base load generation capacity as well as a commitment to building new interconnectors to mainland Europe and Great Britain.

“While the Celtic Interconnector is soon to become operational, it holds nowhere near enough capacity to meet our future needs.

“For too long, there was an attempt among certain decision makers in Ireland to force us to choose between economic growth and energy consumption.

“We can and must do both, and fully realise our renewable energy potential,” said Kelleher.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Going to America where Trump’s threats thrive A week may well be a long time in politics but my recent week went far too fast. The week my son and his American wife and my two granddaughters came to visit – the first time I had seen them in almost two years. Madeleine (6) and Mariele (3) had a great time, such is the wonderment of being a child. As did all their extended family here but, like I say, it just went in so quickly, memorable as it was. And as they waved back at me, when they went airside, there wasn’t a dry eye in my house.

“I’ll see you in September, in America,” I whispered at them.

Student travel body USIT has warned intending JI visa students travelling for summer jobs in the US – as my own three children did in their day – to delete social media apps where they have criticised Trump, as there are fears Homeland security at Dublin Airport could legally

demand you hand over your smart device.

Where might I stand, come September and I am at US security clearance at the airport? Could my opinion pieces on Trump – none flattering by any means – be accessed? Yes, unfortunately, a quick search on the old Google will throw them up. We’ve much to be wary about with Trump, I wrote – and worse than that, much worse. Could I be refused entry or even detained, given that area at Dublin Airport is a US confine? Is it all hype and hysteria? Is America worth the effort, given its current dystopian disposition?

An investor who predicted the 2008 financial crisis says he’s “worried about something worse than the recession of 2008”. Ray Dalio, the founder of the hedge fund Bridgewater Associates, warned the other day of his concerns about tariffs and

growing US debt. He says the Great Depression comes to mind.

Also, a new analysis from Goldman Sachs reveals that Donald Trump’s disastrous policies could cost the US a staggering $90 billion in lost tourism and export revenue.

Last month, tourism plummeted 10% from the prior year with a 27% dip from Ireland, 14% from the UK, 28% from Germany, and 34% from Denmark. Tourism has been cratering as Trump shreds America’s global reputation and his border agents continue to detain, “terrorise”, and deport innocent people. The 100,000 plus “illegal” Irish people in the US, who stayed on after their 90 day ETA visas expired and settled down to jobs and family, await with dread the knock on the door.

Before Trump came back to power – and his jackboot firmly on education, with threats to Harvard, Yale and

Columbia, medical care and migration – researchers at the University of Washington created an index showing the levels of prosperity in education and healthcare for every country in the world in the last 35 years.

The US fell 21 places over the years to 27th, placing it

We’ve much to be wary about with Trump, I wrote – and worse than that ....

in the company of Germany (24), Greece (25), Australia (26), and the Czech Republic (28). The top spots are dominated by Western European and Nordic countries, with Finland topping the list, and South Korea and China the only non-European representatives in the Top 10.

America’s scores declined in one significant category, educational attainment, most likely caused by the decrease in education spending in the last two decades.

It’s not, as my son reminds me, that Americans don’t spend a lot of money on their children’s education — quite the contrary, as the US spends more per student on education than almost any other country and, surprise, surprise, way more than anybody else on healthcare.

Part of the the problem is that much of this money is spent inefficiently. For example, last year half a billion dollars was spent on

lobbying on behalf of healthcare providers, pharma and insurance companies — a ton of money which could have been spent on actual healthcare. Could Elon Musk be somewhat right? Do drastic times call for drastic measures?

In a country where the average industrial wage is $66,662, there are still around 30 million Americans without any kind of health cover, with the number jumping in the last couple of years due to dramatic cuts in Medicare. And now Trump vows there’s more to come, despite the pace-quickening revolt among those aligned to him.

So, will I go to America in September? I sincerely hope to visit, to have a beer with my son and to, once again, hold tight my beautiful granddaughters.

Besides, I live in hope that a week is a long time in politics...

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McNamara calls on Kilkenny to employ more disabled Independent MEP for Ireland South Michael McNamara has called on Kilkenny County Council to take immediate action to develop procurement policies that fully implement Article 20 of the EU’s Public Procurement Directive, which allows for the reservation of public contracts for social enterprises that integrate people with

disabilities into the workforce.

“Despite the clear opportunity offered by Article 20 to foster inclusion and build stronger, fairer local economies, not one Local Authority has integrated these provisions into their procurement practices. This inaction risks Ireland falling behind in its commitments to social inclu-

sion, employment activation, and sustainable local development,” McNamara said.

"Public procurement represents a powerful tool to drive positive social change, and by enacting Article 20, Kilkenny County Council could prioritise spending that strengthens communities and provides employment for marginalised groups

in society. Last year, Ireland’s disability employment rate was the lowest in the EU at 32.6%, almost 20% below the EU average, and action must be taken as soon as possible to bridge this gap," he said.

Article 20 permits contracting authorities to reserve the right to participate in tendering procedures exclusively for social enterprises whose

main aim is the social and professional integration of those with disabilities or disadvantaged individuals, such as the long-term unemployed and other marginalised groups. This reservation ensures that public contracts can directly contribute to achieving broader societal goals beyond pure economic efficiency.

"Communities across Ireland stand to benefit when public funds are spent with purpose. I am urging the Council to move from policy intent to policy action.

Ireland has the opportunity to lead by example in putting procurement to work for social good, and Kilkenny Co Council should be at the forefront of this action," he said.

Survivors of abuse could soon name their abusers Survivors of domestic abuse would be given the chance to waive their anonymity and name their abusers in family law cases, under a change in the privacy rules.

A study of the 'in-camera' rule, which means certain family law hearings are held in strict privacy, has made more than 20 recommendations designed to make the difficult and sometimes traumatising court cases more transparent.

The report, which is understood to be the first of its kind, has been welcomed by Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan.

Mr O'Callaghan said that his view of the controversial incamera rule was that: "I have to do something about it in the tenure of my office.”

He said an important principle of justice was that it was administered in public, so that the public could have confidence in the system.

"When something goes into the dark and it's hidden, that's potentially where difficulties can arise,” Mr O'Callaghan said.

New research recommended a new distinction between public and private information, where people sharing their experiences of the family law court with a trusted family member or relevant party would not be classed as a breach of the in-camera rule.

The report detailed one case in which a child's guardian explained to the child's school that they were going through an extremely difficult and stressful family law case, by way of explaining a sick note for the child.

The judge in that case then invited the perpetrator to apply for a breach of the incamera rule, arguing that telling the school about it had broken the rule.

Others detailed how they felt they could not access counselling during some of the "lowest” points in their lives,

because they feared prosecution for breaching the privacy rules.

Judges who spoke to researchers confirmed that their understanding was that speaking to a therapist about in-camera rule cases would be a breach of the privacy law.

The research was commissioned by the Department of Justice and carried out by researchers at University ­College Cork and Trinity College Dublin.

It is the first time that the testimony of those who experienced the i­n-camera rule in Ireland has been collected.

Researchers had previously feared they would be breaching the in-camera rule just by asking people about their experiences of it.

The kinds of cases covered by the in-camera rule include guardianship, custody, access, maintenance, ­domestic violence orders and divorce cases.

The report has not yet been published, but it was detailed at a Family Law ­Justice Forum held in Dublin yesterday.

The report has called for the in-camera rule to be clearly defined, with information shared in a timely and efficient way.

It said that the legal system is to give survivors of domestic abuse the right to seek permission to waive anonymity, with a view to identifying their abuser.

It would mean that those who are granted safety, protection or barring orders against violent and controlling partners would have the right to have their abuser publicly named and identified in the same way that those who go through criminal justice domestic violence cases can.

The 250-page report included a national survey of 300 parents, grandparents and guardians of children who had experience of the in-camera rule.

Drinking Champagne good for your heart Drinking white wine and Champagne, eating more fruit and keeping waistlines slim could drive down the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, according to new research.

Experts suggested that thousands of cardiac arrests – where the heart suddenly stops beating – could be prevented by tackling health and lifestyle issues.

They found that a higher consumption of Champagne or white wine, more fruit, maintaining a positive

mood, staying a healthy weight and keeping blood pressure under control seemed to protect against a cardiac arrest.

People who were more educated also seemed less prone to cardiac arrest, the study, published in the Canadian Journal of Cardiology, suggested, while poor sleep patterns and a lack of exercise could be detrimental.

A cardiac arrest is an emergency medical situation that

usually happens without warning. People suddenly collapse and are unconscious, and are not breathing or not breathing normally.

Without immediate treatment, people die.

Irish Heart Foundation (IHF) figures show up to 5,000 a year die of cardiac arrest.

The latest study identified 56 risk factors associated with sudden cardiac arrest and found up to 63pc of cases might be avoidable.

"As expected, lifestyles account for the most burden,” the researchers said, adding: "Public awareness campaigns should be further encouraged to promote lifestyle interventions.”

The study looked at 502,094 middle-to-older aged people included in the UK Biobank of data.

Of these, 3,147 people suffered sudden cardiac arrest during a typical follow-up period of 13.8 years.

Ikea seeks outlet in Waterford retail park Ikea is planning to open a new 'plan-and-order' point in Co Waterford, as the Swedish furniture retail giant expands its presence across Ireland.

Ikea has submitted a planning application to Waterford City and County Council looking to install a sign on the proposed outlet in Tramore, located at the former 'Mum N Me' in Tramore Road Business Park.

Ikea confirmed the application was a move toward it opening a new plan-and-order point in Waterford. These are smaller Ikea stores dedicated to kitchen, bedroom, and living-room planning

where customers can get advice on home furnishings and design expertise.

Jayne Owen Gauld, Ikea Ireland Market Manager, said the business was now taking steps toward bringing its offerings to Waterford.

"Our plan-and-order points are designed to offer a personalised and convenient experience, allowing customers to plan their dream kitchens, wardrobes and more with expert guidance,” she said.

"We've seen great success with our existing locations, and we're confident that Waterford will be a fantastic addition to the Ikea family.

"Waterford has been a loca-

tion of interest for some time, and we're excited about the potential to bring our unique blend of style, affordability and sustainability to the region,” she said.

Ikea said the opening date was still to be confirmed, but was actively progressing on the necessary planning applications.

Aside from its huge retail outlet in Dublin, Ikea has plan-and-order point stores in Naas, Dublin's St Stephen's Green, Drogheda, Cork, Carlow and Sligo.

In February, Ikea announced it would launch seven new click-and-collect sites in Tesco car parks, where

customers can collect orders worth over €200 for free. The Swedish group is working with Tesco to introduce the sites across its supermarkets in counties Louth, Westmeath, Kerry, Wicklow, Mayo and Dublin.

The announcement would bring Ikea's number of clickand-collect sites to 21.

It follows the success of its pilot programme in Cork, Louth and Kildare in May 2023.

Last year, Ikea opened a 4,1806 sq m customer distribution centre in Dublin, creating 120 jobs and speeding up the online ordering process.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

In May it’s time not to mow the lawn!

It’s that time of year again, time to go wild and think about the birds and the bees, especially the bees. In Britain No Mow May is set to silence the seasonal whirring of lawn mowers – well some of them.

Here the No Mow movement has the approval of the All Ireland Pollinator Plan, responsible for the way public land is managed and for making recommendation for pollinator friendly practices.

The idea is to leave off mowing and allow the wildflowers likely to be present in lawns, like daisies and clover to bloom, providing food and habitat for pollinators and other creatures. It can be vital to their survival.

Ironically, although we may be disturbed about the plight of starving polar bears on the melting ice cap, we may not be aware that the same kind of thing can be happening outside the windows of our own homes.

A third of Ireland’s wild bees are threatened with extinction, mainly due to the fact that they don’t have enough food. By leaving our lawns unmown for a few weeks to allow wild flowers to bloom there, rather than getting their heads chopped off, we could be throwing bees a lifeline, aside from honey bees we have over a hundred different species of bumble bees in Ireland. Mowing less frequently and removing grass cuttings so that they don’t enrich the soil helps to encourage wildflowers which flourish on poor soils.

There are options to no mowing like rewilding: allowing grasses to grow long and seed and wild flowers to emerge perhaps in a part of the garden or on verges, creating a happy habitat for butterflies and moths. Another is to try to create a wild flower meadow. This involves a bit of management though, as

grasses tend to dominate and wild flowers won’t necessarily appear automatically.

Sowing meadow hay rattle, which is semi parasitic on grasses, helps to keeps them in check and allows other native species like bird’s foot trefoil, cowslip, buttercups and many more varieties to prosper.

The breath-taking wild flower meadow at Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens, Co. Wicklow boasts a rainbow of 148 different species. Wild areas and meadows only need to be mown twice a year, in September when wildflower seeds have set and in spring to remove winter growth.

A less ambitious alternative is cheat a bit and to clear an area of grass or part of a border and sow wildflower seeds there. The inexpensive boxes of wildflower seeds available in supermarkets like Lidl and garden centres seem to germinate much better

than the posh, expensive little envelopes of seeds and the results look gorgeous.

Conserving Brazilian rainforests are carbon sinks protecting the environment but did you know that our own native wet peatlands can store four times more carbon?

Practising conservation and

“Third of Ireland’s wild bees are threatened with extinction...

sustainability at home in our own gardens all adds up and helps the environment too. At Powerscourt in Co. Wicklow, the No. 3 top private gardens in the world, head gardener Alex Slazenger and his team have been evolving and practising sustainable gardening methods which work just as well for small gardens.

Measures range from planting pollinator friendly flowers like sedums and alliums, using nitrogen fixing plants like sweet peas which enrich the soil and green manure (made from plants) to help soil structure. Companion planting, (using mutually beneficial species together) helps prevent pests and diseases naturally rather than relying on pesticides.

For instance Salvia ‘Hot Lips’ is planted with roses to give protection against fungal infections like black spot.

Powerscourt gardeners use compost produced on the

Natural support for summer allergies

CLAIR WHITTY Do you suffer from summer time allergies? You are not alone; hay fever is a common problem caused by an allergic reaction to pollen from flowers, weeds, grasses, or trees. Most will experience symptoms during the summer months when the pollen count is at its highest.

You may also react to other airborne items like dust mites, mould spores, or pet dander.

This is known as allergic rhinitis.

There are several symptoms which are caused by the release of histamine and an

increase in inflammation.

Itchy symptoms can affect your eyes, nose, and throat.

Also common are watery eyes, running or blocked nose, coughing and sneezing.

Thankfully, nature provides powerful support for those suffering with these summer time allergies. Natural antihistamines and immune support can be found in everyday foods: Vitamin C found in fruit and vegetables can help provide natural immune support and antioxidant protection.

Quercetin, known for reducing inflammation and calming allergic responses is found in vegetables, especially red onions, citrus fruits and dark berries.

Vitamin B5 is found in sweet

1,000- acre estate (47 acres are managed) as a mulch around trees to prevent moisture loss and visitors trampling the ground beneath them.

Sustainability is about keeping things going without biodiversity suffering and protecting the carbons sinks of soil and water, explains Rosemary O’Flynn the gardener is in charge of Powerscourt’s spectacular double herbaceous borders, the longest in Ireland.

“With no mow policy or rewilding it’s amazing to see plants like early spotted orchid and lady’s slipper returning.”

Lawns make a green frame for the rest of gardens, setting off flowerbeds and shrubs but they can also be valuable larders.

Just now I am enjoying watching bumble bees feasting on nectar in dandelions which have put their heads up among my unshorn grass.

potatoes, wholegrains, and chicken. This vitamin may help reduce tiredness, fatigue and stress that is associated with dealing with the debilitating symptoms of seasonal allergies on a daily basis.

Include Omega 3 found in oily fish, chia and flax seeds, and some turmeric and ginger to help reduce inflammation Some people find that small daily amounts of local honey can help build immunity to local pollens over time.

No matter how healthy your diet is, it may be difficult to provide all the nutrients required for optimum health every day, especially when there are extra demands. This is a good time to consider additional support with supplements that can help reduce histamine and inflammation, as well as immune support.

Rather than taking several different nutrients look for unique blends like Viridian Quercetin & B5 Complex, which is ideal for these distressing summer allergies.

As well as Quercetin and B5 it contains Vitamin C, Bromelain, Chamomile, Nettle, and Pine Bark. Viridian Quercetin& B5 Complex contain 100% natural ingredients, clean, pure, and ethical with no artificial fillers, binder, or any nasties. It is palm oil free and is suitable for vegetarian and vegan lifestyle. I think it is worth considering to help relieve your symptoms. So that you can enjoy the summer just like everyone else.

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News

SPECIAL REPORT

The sex abuse report that forced a bishop to resign The disgraced former Bishop of Ferns Brendan Comiskey – who has died, aged 89 – retreated from public life following the publication of the damning Ferns Report which outlined a catalogue of child sex abuse in the Co Wexford diocese allegedly over 40 years.

The report claimed Bishop Comiskey had failed to protect children from paedophile priests and failed to report allegations that Fr Seán Fortune had abused a number of children.

The report found Comiskey’s investigation into the rape of children by his clergy was “an inappropriate and inadequate response”.

It concluded that he had “failed to recognise the paramount need to protect children, as a matter of urgency, from potential abusers”.

The Catholic Diocese of Ferns in the South East comprises of 49 parishes in Counties Wexford and Wicklow encompassing 96 individual faith communities.

Comiskey became Bishop of Ferns in 1984, at age 49 and would serve for 18 years, through what is considered one of the darkest times for the Catholic Church.

He resigned following the airing of a BBC documentary Suing The Pope , which uncovered more than 100 allegations of abuse against 21 priests back as far as 1962.

Speaking to the Irish Independent in 2014 about the clerical abuse scandal, Bishop Comisky said: “I did my best and it wasn’t good enough and that’s it.”

In recent years, he had been under the care of the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Ranelagh in Dublin.

Clerical sex abuse survivor Colm O’Gorman said:“Brendan Comiskey has been a private individual for a very long time.

“In terms of his legacy, I think it’s clearly laid out in the Ferns Report for anyone who wants to read it,” said Mr O’Gorman, who founded the One in Four charity which offers support to women and men who have experienced sexual violence.

“He was, however, one bishop. It was really clear in the years following the report that Ferns was sadlynot unique at all.”

Outlining his feelings towards Bishop Comiskey, Mr O’Gorman said: “I think people see the individual, the Bishop who behaved badly and orchestrated this cover-up. But the reality of the situation is that Brendan Comiskey and every other bishop who covered up child sexual abuse and moved priests did so at the direction of the Vatican.

“While he was responsible for his own actions on a personal level on one hand, he

complied with the directives from the Vatican in relation to child sexual abuse.

“I don’t think Brendan Comiskey should be scapegoated or held up as the villain. He wasn’t unique.

He wasn’t any worse than anyone else who operated within that system that directed the cover-up.”

In his early career, Dr Comiskey was catapulted into senior leadership roles at a young age.

He was seen as a leading light of the Irish church, young, handsome, articulate and outspoken. However, his inability to tackle clerical abuse and control notorious abusers such as Fr Fortune

THE FERNS AND OTHER ENQUIRIES The Ferns Inquiry (2005) was an official Irish government inquiry into the allegations of clerical sexual abuse in the Irish Catholic diocese of Ferns in Co Weford. The Ferns Report was released 25 on October 2005.

It identified more than 100 allegations of child sexual abuse made between 1962 and 2002 against twenty-one priests operating under the aegis of the diocese of Ferns.

The report examined the response by the Church authorities in the diocese of Ferns to allegations of child sexual abuse by priests operating under the aegis of the diocese over the forty years to 2002.

In a pastoral letter by Bishop Éamonn Walsh, Apostolic Administrator, said in October, 2005: “I yet again sincerely apologise to all who have suffered in these or in any other way through the sexual abuse by a priest of the diocese. For those who have been abused or where that abuse was compounded by the response, or lack of response by the Diocese, words of apology cannot be left unspoken.”

In January 2001, the Bishops’ Committee on Child Protection commissioned an independent research study on child sexual abuse by clergy. The Health Services Research Centre at the Department of Psychology, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland conducted the study. The study examined the psychological and social impact of child sexual abuse by Catholic clergy, the impact on faith and the experience of disclosure and how disclosure was managed by Church authorities. The book was published on December 4, 2003.

was to prove his downfall.

But even before his spectacular resignation, the young bishop was caught up in controversy when Cardinal Cahal Daly was forced to deny that Bishop Comiskey had been held by police in Bangkok Airport after being found drunk and without his passport.

He went to the US for treatment for alcoholism and came back in early 1996 to face down allegations, asserting he “did not consort with prostitutes” while on holiday in Thailand.

He resigned in 2002 after the broadcast of the BBC documentary.

In his statement announcing his resignation, Dr Comiskey admitted he found Fr Seán Fortune difficult to deal with. The notorious abuser later died by suicide while on bail in March, 1999.

Bishop Éamonn Walsh was installed as Apostolic Administrator in Ferns in 2002 in the wake of BishopComiskey’s resignation and he implemented a new child protection policy which resulted in many more historic allegations of child sexual abuse being reported.

An inquiry into clerical sexual abuse in Ferns was set up following the resignation of Bishop Comiskey. The October, 2005, Ferns Report identified over 100 allegations of child sexual abuse between

1962 and 2002 against 21 priests, including Fr Seán Fortune and Fr Jim Grennan.

In his resignation statement in 2002, Bishop Comiskey said: “The sexual abuse of children is deeply abhorrent to me. I apologise also to the families of victims and to all others who have been offended or hurt in different ways by the late Fr Seán Fortune.

“In endeavouring to deal with the complexity and conflict which always surrounded Fr Fortune, and already existed prior to my appointment as Bishop of Ferns in May, 1984, I can only assure you that I did my best. Clearly this was not good enough. I found Father Fortune virtually impossible to deal with.

“I confronted him regularly; for a time I removed him from ministry; I sought professional advice inseveral quarters; I listened to the criticisms and the praise; I tried compassion and I tried firmness; treatment was sought and arranged – and yet I never managed to achieve any level of satisfactory outcome.”

“Father Fortune committed very grave wrongs and hurt many people. Despite the difficulties he presented in management terms, I should have adopted a more informed and more concerted approach to any dealings with him, and for this I ask forgiveness.”

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Teaching your child about value of money First Holy Communions and Confirmations are upon us again marking not only a spiritual milestone but also an opportunity to encourage financial literacy in our children. The amount of money children receive is mindblowing, into the thousands in many cases representing their biggest financial windfall to date and providing parents an ideal moment to teach responsible money management.

Financial expert Frank Conway of MoneyWhizz recommends that parents engage their children in discussions about setting up savings accounts which can “transform these gifts into a cornerstone of financial education”.

For example, discuss dividing their windfall between discretionary spending, savings, and an amount to one or more charities. This will guide children in their understanding of the proper use of money helping them

establish personal goals, begin to secure their future stability, and support worthy causes.

The pillar banks and online providers are extremely interested in attracting young savers by offering attractive rates. Currently AIB provides a 3% interest rate on balances up to €1,000 for Junior Saver (ages 7-11) and Student Saver (12-17) accounts, far surpassing the 0.25% offered to adults!

EBS offer 2.5% on balances up to €5,000 while PTSB’s Safari Saver yields 1% on up to €20,000 for children aged 7-12. Digital platforms such as Bunq, with interest rates ranging from 1.76% to 2.51%, and Revolut allow children to save with their parent’s permission. Before you make a decision review rates using websites like www.raisin.ie and www.ccpc.ie.

Big occasions are not the only time to instil good money management. A

Andriyko Podilnyk / Unsplash

recent Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) Credit Union survey reveals that nearly half of parents provide pocket money, increasingly via digital platforms like Revolut, and it can be used as a regular opportunity to teach financial responsibility. Unfortunately, no matter

your age Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) applies to all accounts, so I suppose you could look at it as a time to introduce children to tax!

Financial advisor Daragh Cassidy of Bonkers.ie advises a weekly allowance equivalent to a child’s age for example €9 for a nine-year-

old linked to working around the house or garden. Psychotherapist Stella O’Malley suggests initiating pocket money at age seven or eight, starting at €1-€2 weekly.

Meanwhile, Parent Coach Eileen Keane, Director of jumpstartyourconfidence. com and author of The

Parent, emphasises that allowances should be “earned” to underscore money’s value.

Linking pocket money to additional work about the home reinforces the connection between effort and reward.

Frank Conway advocates setting savings goals such as €120 for a desired item to cultivate planning and patience.

As children grow up involving them in household budgeting discussions enhances “their financial acumen”.

Parent Coach and Founder of Parent Support Aoife Lee notes that by age 10 children can “manage funds and grasp deferred gratification.”

As parents, we are encouraged to use the big gift days and the ordinary weekly pocket money as opportunities to teach lifelong financial insights thereby laying the groundwork for our children’s financial security. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

News Science & Wellbeing Most of us love chicken and it’s cooking versatility —but eating it as often as we do may not be as healthy as once thought.

When experts recommend the best diets for healthy aging, heart health, or to help prevent cancer and chronic disease, they often emphasise fruits and vegetables, legumes, and lean proteins like chicken or fish. And while dietary recommendations are increasingly shifting more plant-based, chicken is still considered one of the healthier meat options.

But eating too much chicken may not be as healthy as once thought, according to a recent study published in the journal Nutrients. In the study, researchers investigated the connection between poultry consumption, gastrointestinal cancers, and early death. Poultry refers to all forms of birds, including chicken, turkey, duck, and game birds like quail and pheasants.

Examining data from 4,869 middle- aged Italian participants over 19 years, who answered surveys about their food and beverage consumption, researchers found that white meat consumption (rabbit and poultry) was highest among those who died of gastrointestinal cancers — colon, liver, pancreatic, stomach, esophageal, and rectal cancer, for example — with poultry intake accounting for 33% of their white meat intake.

People who consumed over 300 grams of poultry a week — about 3.5 three-ounce servings — had a 27% higher mortality rate from all causes.

For men in particular, that rate jumped to 61%.

For gastrointestinal cancer specifically, they found that consuming 100 to 200 grams of poultry a week was associated with a 65% increased risk of death from gastrointestinal cancer compared to other cancers, while participants who consumed over 300 grams of poultry every week were 127% more likely to die from gastrointestinal cancer, with this risk even greater at 161% for men.

How much chicken should Getting frisky may get you out of a funk, according to a new study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders which looked at how often people should have sex.

The study looked at nearly 15,000 adults between the ages of 20 and 59. The survey had participants report the frequency of their sexual activity into three categories: less than once per month, more than once a month but less than once a week, and at least once a week.

It found that participants who reported engaging in sexual activity less than once a month were more likely to be depressed than those who made love more

Too much chicken is no yoke for your healthy life

you eat? According to the study, the less poultry consumed the better. While the dietary guidelines for recommends that adults should eat 26 ounces a week of lean meat and poultry (in a 2,000-calorie diet), following the study’s guidance of less than 300 grams a week would mean consuming no more than 10.5 ounces of chicken a week.

“Our results show that consumption of more than 100 grams a week of poultry was

Why having sex can be good for your mental health

associated with an increased risk of death both from all causes and from gastrointestinal cancer,” the study authors wrote. As poultry consumption increased, so did mortality risk— and the results were even more pronounced for those who consumed higher portions of red meat.

Study participants, who at age 83, consumed less than 100 grams of poultry a week had half the mortality risk from gastrointestinal cancer

than those who consumed more than that.

Researchers also suggested that the way chicken is cooked may affect how it impacts your health. White meat cooked at higher temperatures — like grilling or barbecuing — or for long periods in a stew could form high levels of agents that cause genetic mutation, which could influence the development of gastrointestinal cancers.

Pay attention to overall meat consumption, as

researchers found that overall meat consumption plays a substantial role in mortality risk — even when following one of the most recommended diets for overall health.

Participants who died of non-gastrointestinal cancers had diets where red meat accounted more than 65% of their total meat intake, as compared to 56% and 58% among those who died of gastrointestinal cancers and other causes, respectively.

Over half of cancer-related

deaths occurred in people who consumed more than 400 grams of meat every week — even when on the Mediterranean diet.

“We believe it is beneficial to moderate poultry consumption, alternating it with other equally valuable protein sources, such as fish,” the authors wrote. “We also believe it is essential to focus more on cooking methods, avoiding high temperatures and prolonged cooking times.”

often. Specifically, those who had sex weekly had a 24% reduction in the odds of depression.

Those who reported having sex more than once a month but less than once week were about 23% less likely to develop depression.

Researchers determined that an optimal sexual frequency of 52 to 103 times a year best reduces depression odds.

That means that, scientifically, couples should be having sex one to two times a week.

Having sex that often, researchers noted, could serve as a benchmark for favourable sexual and mental health.

However, researchers

noted that having sex more often than twice a week does not further decrease the odds of depression.

Data from the study was taken solely from one point in time. As such, researchers noted that their findings did not necessarily prove a correlation between sex and mental health.

Previous studies have proven that sex is a vital aspect of modern quality of life.

It’s linked to lower disability and mortality rates, anad enhanced well-being.

Dr Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, a sex expert, says that going one month without intercourse can cause stress, anxiety, depression, and anger.

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Travel & Leisure For many, the Wonders of the World represent more than the specific destinations; instead, they symbolise a larger-than-life idea of visiting faraway places.

So if you’re intent on seeing the Wonders of the World, more power to you. Try to be thoughtful when you visit, and support local communities when you can. Here are a few tips from experts for experiencing the Wonders of the World while minimising the chaos of the crowds.

1. Great Pyramid of Giza Egypt The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the old Seven Wonders of the Ancient World still in existence, getting honorary status in the new list.

The pyramid was built around 2,600 BC— impressively, well before protractors were invented. A whopping 14.7 million tourists visited the Great Pyramids complex in 2023.

While you may want to skip paying extra to go inside the Great Pyramid if you’re prone to claustrophobia.

Kate Doty, tour operator Geographic Expeditions’ managing director of premier access, recommends arranging a private viewing of the Great Pyramids or the outside of the Great Sphinx’s paws, which would also give you an uncrowded view of the pyramids. From Doty’s experience booking clients with Geographic Expeditions, those who opt for such excursions need advance requests, as you’ll need confirmation through the Egyptian Antiquities Authority.

2. Great Wall of China China The 13,171-mile Great Wall of China is so expansive, there’s even a myth that you can see it from space. Built in 220 BC as a defence against outside invaders, it runs through the northern part of central China. Nowadays, more than 10 million people come and marvel at the fortification.

Naturally, most travellers don’t come to walk the whole Great Wall. Instead they usually choose a section to visit, each with various levels of hiking difficulty and accessibility. Several parts are favoured by tourists, such as Badaling, which is 40 miles from Beijing.

But, if you want to get away from the crowds, Doty suggests going to more remote sections that are still well preserved, such as Jinshanling in northeast China. The section is a two-hour drive (around 100 miles) from Beijing, making it a crowd-free day trip from the capital.

3. Petra Jordan Petra, in southwest Jordan, was settled by the Nabataeans around 400 B.C. The approximately 65,000acre site has tombs and a massive theatre, but it’s most famous for the Treasury, a facade carved into the

The Wonders of the World ... and without the hassle

rock to be a mausoleum.

(The name comes from the area’s inhabitants in the 19th century, who believed there was treasure inside).

The ancient city draws about a million travellers a year. If you want to avoid the crowds, Doty recommends venturing farther from the iconic structure: “If you are physically able, you may walk the steps up to the monastery, and there will be even fewer people.”

Cari Gray, CEO and owner of private jet travel company Gray and Co., suggests ending (or starting) a hike from the nearby archaeological site Little Petra. But to do this, you need to arrange a guide and transportation at the end and starting points.

4. Colosseum Italy In the heart of Rome is the Colosseum, the largest

standing amphitheatre in the world, at 620 feet in length and 512 feet in width. It was completed in 80 AD.and could hold anywhere from 50,000 to 80,000 people as they spectated entertainment from gladiator battles to dramas.

Though gladiators are no longer fighting to the death in the arena, the crowds still gather: About 12 million people visited in 2023, making it Italy’s most famous attraction.

With undiscovered neighbourhoods around Rome, there’s a solid case for avoiding the site altogether, but there are a few ways to visit with fewer crowds.

Elisa Valeria Bove, CEO of private tour company Roma Experience, says the key is to visit right when it opens, at 8:30am, or right before it closes (3:15pm in winter and 6:15 pm in summer).

Alternatively, you can get

another look at the landmark with an underground tour, which takes up to 25 people at a time down into its tunnels.

5. Chichén Itzá Mexico Chichén Itzá is a Maya city in the Yucatan that was built around 700 to 900 C.E. Like Egypt’s Great Pyramid creators, the ancient Mayans were really good with math: The city’s Kukulcán pyramid, named after a snakelike deity, served as a huge calendar.

The spring and fall equinoxes are particularly popular times to visit, as on these days the sun casts a shadow on the pyramid in a way that outlines the figure of the god’s serpentshaped body. It’s a cool phenomenon, but may not be worth it considering that the equinoxes occur when many of the Wonder’s two million annual visitors choose to visit.

To avoid the crowds, try to

get there right when the site opens, before the hordes of tourists come in. With the intensity of the sun and limited shade, your body will thank you. Still, you may find yourself rubbing shoulders with some tour groups on a guided tour, but don’t fret; there are plenty of other ancient pyramids worth exploring in Mexico.

6. Machu Picchu Peru Machu Picchu is a 15thcentury Inca citadel located nearly 8,000 feet above sea level. For many of its 950,000 or so annual visitors, the trip entails a car or train ride to a gateway town like Aguas Calientes, followed by a bus to the sacred site. As a good rule of thumb is getting there early or late in the day to explore in relative solitude.

But to avoid the literal bus load of tourists obscuring your view, travel advisor Doty suggests lacing up your hiking shoes and taking a trek, such as the Choquequirao Trek or the Lares Trek, to get some grand vistas of the sanctuary.

Peru’s Ministry of Culture offers three circuits for viewing all of the sights at Machu Picchu in an effort to spread out the crowds. You still pass many of the main sights, but you’re not part of a herd.

7.Taj Mahal India There are grand romantic gestures, and then there’s the Taj Mahal. In 1631, Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this landmark

in the name of love; he wanted a proper mausoleum to honour his late wife. The 42-acre complex draws seven to eight million visitors every year; if you’re debating whether to catch it at sunrise or sunset, Doty says the former seems less crowded.

For a fantastic viewpoint, the Oberoi Hotel is great when the skies are clear. The Nagla Devjit neighbourhood, on the other side of the Yamuna River, is another recommended spot, with viewpoints such as the Mehta Bagh gardens.

8. Christ the Redeemer Brazil Looming over Rio de Janeiro are the outstretched arms of Christ the Redeemer, a concrete statue of Jesus Christ. The Catholic symbol stands at 98 feet high and spans a whopping 92 feet horizontally from fingertip to fingertip. The concrete work took five years to build and was finished in 1931. The statue is the crowning piece of Corcovado Mountain, and about two million people come every year to visit the work.

There are several ways to see Christ the Redeemer, including via train, van tour, and hike. If you want to time your visit right, Rio de Janeiro resident Joel Balsam recommends visiting right when it opens in the morning.

Or save the sweat and consider going by helicopter, recommended if the skies are clear.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

All the world’s a baize, a green baize!

Things are hotting up on the green baize in Sheffield as I write. The Snooker World Championship final is about to take place in the famous Crucible Theatre which is to snooker what Croke Park is to Gaelic games and what the CYMS Hall was to us young snooker players back in the day. And I’m still smarting over the heart-breaking School Boys Snooker Final I participated in, in the CY as it was known, in the mid-1960s.

I wrote about this before (and I’ll write about it again until I get it out of my system, which may be never). In brief, it all came down to the final black ball which my opponent (Billy Loughman) left hanging over the pocket.

All I had to do was tap it in.

And I did. But I also let the cue ball in after it. A foul. End of game. End of final. End of my adolescent dream of being Kilkenny’s School Boy

Snooker Champion. (Billy I hope you revelled in your new-found fame).

And that final always reminds me of the famous 1985 Black Ball World Snooker Final between Denis Taylor and Steve Davis which also went to the black ball, the very last ball of the match which Steve Davis had led throughout. At one stage Steve led 7-0. Denis made an incredible come back and,

unlike yours truly, potted the black to secure victory and a place in snooker history. That final has been described as ‘The Greatest Snooker Final of All Time’ and was watched by 18.5 million viewers including my pregnant wife who had no interest whatsoever in snooker!

To this day it’s one of my all-time favourite sporting moments (after Kilkenny’s All Ireland victories, of course).

In the meantime what’s this our parents used to say about snooker? Sign of a misspent youth. Well tell that to the following gentlemen, the eight richest snooker players in the world: 1. Steve Davis £26.5 million. 2. Stephen Hendry £25.5 million. 3. Denis Taylor £18.2 million. 4. Jimmy White (the best player never to have won the World Championship) £18.2 million. 5. Cliff Thorburn £.12.2 million. 6.

Ronnie O’Sullivan £ 11.2 million. 7. John Parrot £9.1 million. 8. John Higgins £8.8 million.

The players’ wealth comes not just from prize money but endorsements, appearances and commentary. Mentioning prize money – when the famous, or rather infamous, Alex Higgins first won the World Title in 1972 the prize money was less than £500.

When he won it again, 10 year later, it was £25,000. This

year’s first place prize money is £500,000.

Alex, ‘Hurricane Higgins’, ‘The People’s Champion’, was the wild man of snooker – he threatened to have fellow Irish man Denis Taylor shot.

Cliff Thorburn, now 77, floored him with a punch while his girlfriend stabbed him three times during an argument. Alex died of throat cancer, aged 61. Jimmy White, a drinking buddy of Alex, talked about his cocaine habit which cost him £10,000 a month. In 1980 Canada’s, the late Big Bill Werbeniuk, all of 20 stone, caused one hell of a laugh when he bent over to pot a ball and split the arse of his trousers revealing a very hairy backside.

And so to Ronnie O’Sullivan, seven times winner of the World Snooker Championship (a record he holds jointly with Stephen Hendry) and the most successful snooker

player of all time. At the 1997 World Snooker Championship Ronnie made the fastest maximum break (147) in history. He did it in 5 minutes, 8 seconds and received £147,000 for making the max.

Ronnie who used to indulge in all-night binges, drinking 15 pints of Guinness, and smoking cannabis. started rehab in 2000 and turned turned his life around.

He is now reformed and is very much into running and pilates; he has even written a recipe book: ‘Top of Your Game, Eating for Mind and Body’.

Asked about the best advice he was given, Ronnie replied: “Life is fickle, so don’t take it too seriously.”

Touché, Ronnie. And now I must phone my great friend, Jimmy ‘Brewery’ Rhatigan, for a long overdue game of snooker in the Home Rule Club.

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News

Bishop Coll led a Memorial Mass honouring Pope Francis

Bishop Niall Coll was present at St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday 27th April for the Memorial Mass in Thanksgiving for the Life and Ministry of Pope Francis.

The deeply moving liturgy drew a large gathering of faithful who came to honour the legacy and spiritual leadership of the Holy Father. Bishop Coll offered words of reflection and comfort, acknowledging Pope Francis’s profound global impact and his enduring message of mercy and inclusion. A Book of Condolences is now open in the cathedral, and the faithful are warmly encouraged to sign it as a gesture of respect, remembrance, and gratitude for Pope Francis’s life and ministry.

There is also an online Book of Condolences via the Kilkenny County Council website.

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News

"I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell"

Monsignor Michael Ryan, Diocesan Administrator, on a visit to Rome in 2017 with the Irish Bishops, having a private chat with the Holy Father, Pope Francis

Laois Fourth Wall Theatre Group presents Bernard Farrell’s situational comedy I Do Not Like Thee, Doctor Fell directed by David Corri.

A group therapy session is led by the enigmatic and manipulative Suzy (Mary Dermody). The participants Joe Fell (John Kavanagh), Roger (Kevin Lalor-Fitzpatrick), Peter (Joe Murphy), Maureen (Alex O’Neal), and Rita (Maeve Heneghan) reveal more about themselves than they intended, leading to hilariously awkward situations. Paddy (Michael Brennan), the Group Attendant, provides the ‘normal’ balance to the proceedings. Clashing egos and misunderstandings devolve into absurd confrontations creating tension between Susy’s calm demeanour and the chaos of the group members. As Suzy applies increasing pressure, the cracks begin to show, and buried conflicts, resentments, and fears erupt.

The play balances absurdity with authenticity, keeping the audience laughing while reflecting on human nature's vulnerabilities and contradictions. Themes of control and human vulnerability are explored, exposing a thin line between therapy and coercion. Set in the 1980s, the play is a satire

I Do Not Like Thee Dr Fell Facing

of the self-help culture and a hilarious commentary on power dynamics within supposed safe spaces.

Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group The Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group was formed in September 2016. Its first major production was Big Maggie by John B Keane in 2017. This was followed in 2018 by Hugh Leonard’s Da and by Keane’s Sive, and The Field in 2019 and 2022. Last year’s production was The Country Boy by John Murphy.

The group is community based and is made up of experienced actors, set

builders, technicians, stage managers, producers, and backstage crew. The group has a steady intake of talented newcomers to the theatrical world each year.

If you are interested in participating and would like to become a member of Fourth Wall Laois Theatre Group, feel free to get in contact with them on their Facebook page. For membership enquiries, please contact Kevin LalorFitzpatrick at 087 961 4235.

I Do Not Like Thee, Dr Fell runs at Thomastown Concert hall on Friday 9 and Saturday 10 May.

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Mayfair Library celebrates its first birthday

Celebrating 188,000 visits to the Mayfair Library

Since opening its doors on April 24th, 2024, the Mayfair Library has quickly become a destination for all ages. It

has welcomed over 188,000 visitors, issued over 140,000 items, gained over 11,000 members, and it has hosted

875 events.

To celebrate this milestone, the library hosted events for children,

light refreshments, and a photographic exhibition of Mayfair events where people could drop in

and add to this memory exhibition on Friday, April 25th, 2025.

County Librarian, Josephine Coyne commented, “It really has been an incredible year.

This is an example of how investment in a public library can really support and provide for the needs of the community. We are so delighted to welcome people into this vital space in the city of Kilkenny – a testament to the role the library plays in enriching lives and strengthening our city’s cultural offering.”

Previously home to the Mayfair Ballroom, the library has been transformed into a library space of 1,800 square metres over two floors.

The Mayfair library reflects what a 21st Century library should be, with comfortable seating and browsing areas, dedicated community exhibition space, programming and events throughout the year, public internet access, printing and scanning facilities, makerspace with 3D printing and scanning, sewing machines and more.

Since the library opened,

it has provided a range of innovative and varied events, programmes, and exhibitions. With 7 book clubs and a dedicated makerspace, as well as quiet reading nooks, this library really does offer something for everyone.

Mayfair Library manager, Nuala Roche said “It has been a wonderful journey this past year for all the team. It’s lovely to see adults, teens, and children in the same space reading and relaxing or chatting.

You will never feel lonely in the library - wander in, read a newspaper or sit at a window and watch the world go by.”

In an era where information is abundant yet often access remains unequal, the importance of public libraries has never been more important.

Whether you are a lifelong book lover, a curious learner or someone seeing a quiet place to reflect, you are welcome here where the possibilities are endless.

The Mayfair Library is open 6 days a week – Monday to Saturday with 2 late nights on Tuesday and Thursdays until 8pm.

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Opinion

Rationing: Black bread and a pinch of tea …

High Street Kilkenny in mid 20th century

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Apart from black-marketing during the "Emergency", people resorted to unusual ways of easing the pain of rationing.

In Callan, Seamus O' Brien came across a group of County Council workers on the Clonmel Road who, he learned, had developed a procedure for ensuring that every tea-break would be enjoyable…even if it poisoned them. For each morning break, the kettle was put on and the billycan filled with boiling water.

This was then passed around to every worker, and each of them added his own contribution of tea, coffee, or cocoa to it. The brew was then stirred and shared out among the team. But one day, a new worker who had joined the group wasn’t quite au fait with the routine. His mates paid no attention to what he was dropping into the billycan.

Then they relaxed to knock back their enamel mugs of “morning glory”, as they called the daily beverage. As they drank, they winced. One man began coughing and spitting. Another turned pale.

The “gaffer”, perplexed by the group’s reaction and not liking the taste himself, asked the new recruit: “In the name of almighty Jesus, what did you put in the feckin’ can?”

Timidly, with a worried look breaking out on his face, the man replied: “Two Oxos. What do ye think?” After getting over their initial shock and annoyance, the men drank their fill and Seamus was certain that all of them survived to serve their county for decades to come.

He recited another instance that underlined how precious the rationed commodities were to the people who lacked them: While undertaking repairs for the Board of Health as a carpenter on a farm in the Callan district, he heard the woman of the house shouting that the kettle was boiling for the lunch break.

He stepped inside the farmhouse from the yard where he was working and saw a large steaming teapot resting on a hob. He emptied the pot and dropped two spoons of rationed tea from a tin can into it for himself and his assistant.

He then returned to work for a few minutes while he waited for the tea to “draw.”

The woman, who hadn’t

Part two

LDF armband from Emergency years

noticed him enter the house, emptied the pot again and filled it with more tea and water. When Seamus informed her that she had inadvertently thrown out a pot of tea, she became emotional and broke down, crying. She was inconsolable and had to be comforted by Seamus and his workmate.

Such was the value placed on the habitual cup of tea that Irish people took for granted and that the war had made a delicacy to be appreciated as never before in our history.

After being used once, tealeaves were carefully removed from the pot and spread along windowsills to dry out. They

could then be used again.

Some people tried dandelion ash, or herb tea, but no substitute could replace the real cup of tea that the nation pined for.

At the time, Ireland was the second highest consumer of tea in the world, and tongues were literally hanging out all over the country for the want of it. It was an addiction of sorts and the war subjected many decent Irish men and women to tortuous withdrawal symptoms of the kind normally associated with giving up cigarettes or drink.

Jimmy Somers had been famous in the 1930s for his “Black and Amber” tea, and

it wasn’t just the association with the Kilkenny team colours that made it such a local success. Rita O’ Neill revealed that Jimmy devised a topsecret formula whereby two different brands of tea, one of large amber leaves and the other a fine black concoction, were mixed together.

An additional ingredient that he added to the mixture to complete the formula is unknown to this day. But whatever it was, locals and visitors from far-flung districts loved the taste of the Black and Amber tea, as Jimmy himself christened it. Jimmy also designed a special bag to contain quantities of this unique

blend, and this had a picture of the legendary Kilkenny hurler, Lowry Meagher on it.

It must have been heartbreaking for the great grocer-publican to enforce State-sanctioned rationing of this much sought after commodity, which some black marketers could sell at exorbitant prices due to intense and unflinching demand for it throughout the Emergency.

In the second half of 1940, locals began to miss the loaves of white bread that up to a few months earlier had filled the shelves of grocery shops.

Keogh’s of Bridge Street, who transported bread to customers in the district on a horsedrawn cart, had to explain as best they could to them that the familiar and much-loved white bread would not be available for a while owing to the war.

(Picture: Callan LDF men at Pickardstown camp Tramore 1943. Back row: Sonny Rochford, Jim Doheny, Jimmy Moore, Michael Bradley, Jack Shelly.

Front row: Seamus O' Brien, M. Morrissey, Pat Lennon, Nicholas Larkin, Corporal Duffy).

The government then clamped down in earnest on this “luxury” by obliging bakers to include bran in the flour used for bread making. Previously, bran had been eliminated from the process. The arrival in early 1942 of what came to be known as “black bread” in homes throughout the land was greeted with yet another sigh of resignation by families already getting their heads around not having enough tea and sugar on their tables.

The new governmentapproved bread, made from one hundred percent wheaten flour, was browner than black in colour, not badly unlike a loaf of wholemeal bread but a deeper brown. It got progressively blacker as the war dragged on.

To be continued..

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The McGowan Trilogy

Conflict and redemption as ‘Owls’ present The McGowan Trilogy

Cast members of The McGowan Trilogy presented by the Barn Owl Players: Jim Carroll, Seán Hackett, John Prendergast, Eoin Nangle Ryan and Ben Nunan

Barn Owl Players are thrilled to announce their most ambitious production yet, staging The McGowan Trilogy, a thrilling series of connected plays by renowned playwright Seamus Scanlon. Directed by the esteemed Philip Hardy, this electrifying production promises to be an unforgettable experience for local theatre- goers. This production marks the group's first foray into Thomastown, and they are excited to bring their trademark energy and dynamism to a new stage.

The production will run for three nights, beginning May 15th, and tickets are now available through Eventbrite.

Director Philip Hardy, whose thirty-plus years leading Barnstorm Theatre Company have shaped the landscape of local and national theatre, steps back into the director's chair for this remarkable trilogy. Hardy, known for his visionary approach to storytelling, is excited to return to the world of theatre with such a dynamic project.

"The McGowan Trilogy is a powerful and poignant journey through complex characters and themes," says Hardy. "I am looking forward to working with

such a talented group of actors on a production that will push boundaries and create a unique theatrical experience."

The trilogy explores deep themes of family, conflict, and attempts at redemption, with characters caught in the turmoil of Rosey Hayes, John Prendergast and Mags Whitely will perform at the Thomastown Concert Hall with the Barn Owl Players

one character, Victor. Barn Owl Players' production promises to bring a raw and gripping portrayal of Scanlon's intricate world to life. The group is thrilled to have Hardy take the director’s reins and help navigate Scanlon’s thrilling script. Appearing

in this bold production are some of the most talented local actors, each bringing their own unique flair and depth to their roles.

John Prendergast brings his captivating presence to the role of Victor, a character marked by internal conflict and unrelenting

drive. Prendergast’s powerful performances have earned him a dedicated following in the local theatre scene. Jim Carroll and Mags Whitely, stalwarts of the Kilkenny theatre scene, bring their dynamic stage presence, ensuring audiences are in for a treat. Rosey Hayes and Eoin Nangle Ryan capture the complexity of their characters and are joined by Ben Nunan; they will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

"We are incredibly proud to be working with such a talented and passionate group of actors," says Mags Whitely, chair of the Barn Owl Players. "Each actor brings something

Director Philip Hardy who brings over 30 years experience as director

special to the stage, and together, they will create a performance that is powerful, moving, and unforgettable."

This production marks an exciting milestone for the Barn Owl Players as they take to the stage for the first time in Thomastown. Bursting with enthusiasm, the group is eager to connect with the community and warmly invites locals and residents from both the county and the city to join them at the concert hall for this captivating show.

"We are excited to bring our passion for theatre to Thomastown and share this exciting new chapter of Barn Owl Players with a fresh audience," says the group's director. "We've always believed that theatre has the power to unite and inspire, and we can't wait to share The McGowan Trilogy with the people of Thomastown and the wider community of the South East.

The McGowan Trilogy will be performed for three nights, from May 15th to May 17th. Tickets are now available via Eventbrite, and audiences are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.

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The McGowan Trilogy

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News

Boardwalk project at Greensbridge set to enhance Kilkenny's connectivity Kilkenny County Council is thrilled to announce the signing of the Pedestrian & Cycle Link Boardwalk construction contract at Greensbridge in Kilkenny City! This exciting project is part of the Abbey Quarter development.

The main contract was awarded to Donnelly Civil Engineering Ltd, Co. Clare on the 11th of April. The project is being funded by the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) through the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage, and Kilkenny County Council.

Project Overview: We are excited to reveal the proposed development of a vibrant new pathway for pedestrians and cyclists, linking Riverside Gardens with Bishops Meadows Riverside Park! A highlight of this project is the elevated boardwalk that will span the western bank of the River Nore.

This development will feature modern public lighting, smooth surfacing, and essential site clearance works.

To the north, the pathway will connect to the existing riverside walk at Bishops Meadows. To the south, it will pass beneath the R886 (New Road) through an existing archway, part of western approach to Green’s Bridge, and link up with the existing pathway at Riverside Gardens.

We anticipate this project will be completed by the end of 2025, bringing enhanced connectivity and enjoyment to our community!

Regarding the contract signing James Browne, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage commented: “This green light for funding a Pedestrian & Cycle Link Boardwalk at Greensbridge under the Government’s Urban Regeneration and Development Fund (URDF) will further enhance connectivity and sustainable active travel in and around a revitalised Abbey Quarter.

The development of this public amenity,

alongside the broader URDF investment in the Abbey Quarter, highlights the transformative potential of urban regeneration and, vitally, the creation of connected communities so our towns and cities are fit for the future.”

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Michael McCarthy, added: “I am thrilled to see this contract signing follow so swiftly after the recent signing of the Abbey Quarter Urban Street & Park construction contract. This demonstrates the continued progress in delivering the ambitious Masterplan for the Abbey Quarter. I extend my gratitude to the Government for their commitment to URDF funding and wish the contractors every success on the project.”

Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr.

Andrew McGuinness, shared his excitement: “We are delighted to be involved in this exciting project in the Abbey Quarter and look forward to working with all parties to ensure its successful completion.”

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 116

"We tend to tie ourselves in knots"

Claire and Pat O'Neill with Kathleen Brown who took part in the pageantry display at the Pat Walsh Memorial Commemoration event at Dunamaggin

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Recruitment

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

Loreto Kilkenny International Day 2025

Photography by Mr. Tom Beirne

Loreto Kilkenny International Day 2025 On 8 April 2025, Loreto Secondary School Kilkenny held their annual International Day to celebrate the vast diversity of cultures and ethnicities representing the student body The day was a huge success, with over 185 students from various ethnicities taking part in the event, and show-off their culture with pride. The day was brought to life by music from different countries, food samples for students and staff to try out, dressing up in cultural dresses and dance performances.

Over 53 different countries are represented in Loreto, while 50 different languages are spoken.

International Day is a chance for students of all nationalities to wear their culture with pride.

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Loreto Kilkenny International Day 2025

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Global Report

The first 100 days Trump takes the US economy to the brink of crisis Donald Trump has spent his first 100 days back in the Oval Office driving an economy that the world envied to the brink of crisis, risking America’s reputation as a financial safe haven and fostering fear among voters who’ve lost confidence in his leadership.

Americans were desperate for relief from high food prices and bought into the Trump’s promise to make America affordable again in November 2024, partly out of nostalgia for the pre-pandemic economy of his first term.

But the US president deliberately and singlehandedly adopted policies that are almost certain to spike prices even more; that could lead to shortages; and that have CEOs and small businesses dealing with chaos and the possibility of a recession.

Trump is attempting the most fundamental overhaul of the US and global economies in generations, adamant that he can recreate a mythical late 19th-century golden age using “beautiful” tariffs to exert US economic might to crush trade rivals.

But a president who has played golf while workers’ pensions tanked has often looked indifferent to the grow-

ing concerns of Americans, from business titans to ordinary shoppers who are seeing the impact of his policies in real time over his first 100 days in office.

Trillions of dollars have been wiped o stock markets. Airlines are cutting flights; top firms are trashing their own annual forecasts; some retailers have given up selling Chinamade goods in the US because of the tariffs.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) cut US growth forecasts; the Federal Reserve says some businesses have stopped hiring; the CEO of Walmart told Trump his policies will seize up the supply chain by summer.

In a warning sign of a possible slide to a recession, consumer sentiment has plummeted and was in April at its fourth-lowest level since 1952. CNN’s Fear and Greed Index, a snapshot of emotion on the markets, has been registering “fear” or “extreme fear” for the last month.

Like much that Donald Trump has done since returning to the Oval Office, his trade policy is legally and constitutionally questionable since he unilaterally declared a national emergency to unlock powers to

wage tariff warfare across the globe.

He’s now wielding vast and unaccountable authority to test his lifelong theory that the United States, the world’s richest nation, has long been ripped off by every other country.

His aim is to force foreign markets wide open for US products and to make manufacturers bring back factories and jobs to revive industrialised regions that have paid a heavy price for the globalisation of trade.

He insists that scores of nations are lining up to do US-friendly deals that will make Americans rich.

Millions of American jobs may depend on the outcome of his gamble.

Trump is putting into practice a core belief that is also at the centre of his effort to dismantle the US-led Western political system that has prevailed and kept global peace for 80 years: That the US — the mightiest world power — should not lead the world but should use its strength in one-on-one negotiations to coerce smaller nations into policies that benefit America and no one else.

This principle, embedded in his “America first” approach, has already alienated many American allies — although that’s a feature rather

than a bug for a president who sees life as a win-lose proposition.

The president’s brittle temper and belief that he possesses a sharper economic mind than those whose job it is to protect employment and to fight inflation are also contributing to pushing the US economy to the brink.

His attacks on Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, for instance, have tarnished America’s brand as the rock of stability in the global economy.

Trump has been demanding big interest-rate cuts even though many experts warn that this could hike inflation, which is already expected to rise because of his tariffs. Markets hated his interference — perhaps one reason why he’s toned down, at least for now, his threats to fire the central bank chief.

Trump is also escalating a dangerous showdown with China, launching full-on economic warfare with America’s 21st-century superpower rival, which has enormous geopolitical implications far beyond trading conditions.

“If you look at all of the years that I’ve been doing this, I’ve been right on things,” Trump told Time Maga-

zine in an interview marking his first 100 days. “You’re going to have the wealthiest country we’ve ever had, and you’re going to have an explosion upward in the not-too-distant future.”

What is so remarkable about the gathering storm is that it’s not the product of business cycles, an outside economic shock, a terrorist attack, or an act of God like a pandemic or natural disaster.

It’s all authored by an American president knowingly adopting tariff policies that almost all informed economic observers predict will lead to higher prices and slow economic activity.

It’s not just what Trump is doing, but how he’s doing it.

He has imposed, paused and adjusted arbitrary tariffs erratically, creating the kind of uncertainty that can cause recessions.

He claimed in his Time interview he’d already done 200 trade deals and that his team is talking with China, which is facing a 145% tariff that has effectively halted trade between the rivals. Beijing denies it’s in contact with the US and is showing no sign of backing down to his intimidation.

Americans don’t believe in Trump’s economic mastery anymore and seeing him making an extraordinary hazardous bet.

“This is one of the most important days, in my opinion, in American history. It’s our declaration of economic independence, ” the president said, declaring ‘Liberation Day’ in the White House Rose Garden on April 2. He gleefully ran down the list of tariff rates for dozens of nations on big poster.

“We’re going to be wealthy as a country because they’ve taken so much of our wealth away from us.”

But within hours of reciprocal tariffs coming into force, Trump suddenly paused them for 90 days, apparently brought back to reality by alarming activity in the bond markets that suggested investors were abandoning their faith in the US economy.

His officials, steeped in Trump’s personality cult, nevertheless hailed his sudden reversal as proof of his genius and predicted a torrent of deals that would boost the economy. None of them have materialised so far.

The confusion and reversals have been traumatic for millions of Americans who hoped he’d bring economic relief, not a new round of pain for family budgets.

After winning a plurality of the popular vote in November, Trump’s approval rating has plummeted to 41%, the worst of any president in his first 100 days in 70 years, according to a new CNN/SSRS poll.

His approval on the economy — a key to his longtime political viability — is at its lowest-ever level at 39%.

Only 35% approve of his approach to inflation, the same number who back Trump on tariffs. The president’s deteriorating political position is escalating pressure to produce outcomes that justify the massive shock and damage he’s caused to the economy.

The administration, however, insists that an economic policy that seems to emerge from the president’s personal whims is a well-thoughtout plan primed to deliver. in which one person sets prices — let along someone with as rudimentary grasp of economics as Trump — would be a recipe for mayhem and corruption, and would shatter the rules-based economic system that has made the US the world’s greatest power.

CNN and news agencies

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Motors

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Chilli con carne

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 1 hr Serves: 4 This great chilli recipe has to be one of the best dishes to serve to friends for a casual get-together. An easy sharing favourite that uses up food cupboard ingredients.

Ingredients • 1 large onion • 1 red pepper • 2 garlic cloves • 1 tbsp oil • 1 heaped tsp hot chilli powder (or 1 level tbsp if you only have mild) • 1 tsp paprika • 1 tsp ground cumin • 500g lean minced beef • 1 beef stock cube • 400g can chopped tomatoes • ½ tsp dried marjoram • 1 tsp sugar (or add a thumbnailsized piece of dark chocolate along with the beans instead, see tip) • 2 tbsp tomato purée • 410g can red kidney beans • plain boiled long grain rice to serve • soured cream to serve STEP 1 Prepare your vegetables. Chop 1 large onion into small dice, about 5mm square. The easiest way to do this is to cut the onion in half from root to tip, peel it and slice each half into thick matchsticks

lengthways, not quite cutting all the way to the root end so they are still held together. Slice across the matchsticks into neat dice.

Step 2 Cut 1 red pepper in half lengthways, remove stalk and wash the seeds away, then chop. Peel and finely chop 2 garlic cloves.

Step 3 Start cooking. Put your pan on the hob over a medium heat. Add 1 tbsp oil and leave it for 1-2 minutes until hot (a little longer for an electric hob).

Step 4 Add the onion and cook, stirring fairly frequently, for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft, squidgy and slightly translucent.

Step 5 Tip in the garlic, red pepper, 1 heaped tsp hot chilli powder or 1

level tbsp mild chilli powder, 1 tsp paprika and 1 tsp ground cumin.

Step 6 Give it a good stir, then leave it to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7 Brown 500g lean minced beef. Turn the heat up a bit, add the meat to the pan and break it up with your spoon or spatula. The mix should sizzle a bit when you add the mince.

Step 8 Keep stirring and prodding for at least 5 minutes, until all the mince is in uniform, mince-sized lumps and there are no more pink bits.

Make sure you keep the heat hot enough for the meat to fry and become brown, rather than just stew.

Step 9 Make the sauce. Crumble 1 beef

stock cube into 300ml hot water.

Pour this into the pan with the mince mixture.

Step 10 Add a 400g can of chopped tomatoes. Tip in ½ tsp dried marjoram, 1 tsp sugar and add a good shake of salt and pepper.

Squirt in about 2 tbsp tomato purée and stir the sauce well.

Step 11 Simmer it gently. Bring the whole thing to the boil, give it a good stir and put a lid on the pan. Turn down the heat until it is gently bubbling and leave it for 20 minutes.

Step 12 Check on the pan occasionally to stir it and make sure the sauce doesn’t catch on the bottom of the pan or isn’t drying out. If it is, add a couple of tablespoons of water and make sure that the heat really is low enough. After simmering gently, the

saucy mince mixture should look thick, moist and juicy.

Step 13 Drain and rinse a 410g can of red kidney beans in a sieve and stir them into the chilli pot. Bring to the boil again, and gently bubble without the lid for another 10 minutes, adding a little more water if it looks too dry.

Step 14 Taste a bit of the chilli and season.

It will probably take a lot more seasoning than you think.

Step 15 Now replace the lid, turn off the heat and leave your chilli to stand for 10 minutes before serving. This is really important as it allows the flavours to mingle.

Step 16 Serve with soured cream and plain boiled long grain rice.

Leftover lamb curry Prep: 10 mins Cook: 1 hr and 30 mins Serves: 4-6 Make the most of leftover roast lamb with this flavour-packed leftover lamb curry. Serve with naan bread and basmati rice for an Indian feast Egg-free and nut-free.

Ingredients • 2 onions roughly chopped • 1 large garlic clove chopped • 1 thumb sized piece ginger peeled and chopped • 2 tbsp oil • 4 tbsp medium curry paste • 400g can chopped tomatoes • 1 red chilli halved and seeds

removed • 1 cinnamon stick • 200ml lamb stock • 500-700g leftover roast lamb chopped into large chunks • 1 small bunch of coriander roughly chopped • cooked basmati rice naan bread and natural yogurt, to serve Method STEP 1 Whizz the onion, garlic, ginger and 200ml water in a food processor until you have a smooth paste.

STEP 2 Heat the oil in a casserole dish and fry the onion mixture for 10-15 mins or until all the liquid has been

absorbed and the onion begin to turn golden brown. Add the curry paste and fry for 1 min more. Stir through the tomatoes, cinnamon and chilli. Pour in the stock and

bring to a simmer. Add the lamb and cook, covered for 1 hr.

STEP 3 Remove the lid and simmer

uncovered for 15 mins to reduce slightly. Season to taste and stir through the coriander. Serve with fluffy basmati rice, naan bread and yogurt.

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5 Coming to Amazon Prime Video this May If you’re in the mood to binge a thriller, The Better Sister sounds like a solid option. Based on Alafair Burke’s bestselling novel, the show stars Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks [pictured] as estranged sisters Chloe and Nicky, whose lives are upended when Chloe’s husband, Adam (Corey Stoll), is brutally murdered.

Chloe, a high-pro reunite and confront long-buried family secrets as they seek to uncover the truth behind Adam’s death.

The Better Sister also features a strong supporting cast, including Kim Dickens, Matthew Modine, Lorraine Toussaint, and Gloria Reuben.

Stream it on Prime Video from May 29.

For fans of the original, Another Simple Favour

seems to offer more twists that made A Simple Favour a big draw.

Set on the picturesque island of Capri, Italy, the movie opens with Emily’s (Blake Lively) extravagant wedding to Dante Versano (Michele Morrone), the heir to a powerful fortune.

The celebration takes a dark turn when a murder occurs, leading to a series of twists and betrayals among the glamorous guests.

Stephanie (Anna Kendrick), now a true-crime author, is reluctantly drawn back into Emily’s chaotic world.

Octopus! is a two-part documentary narrated and executive produced by Phoebe Waller-Bridge. If you’re into nature documentaries with a unique twist, this one sounds like a really enjoyable watch.

The movie delves into the enigmatic world of the Giant Paci behaviours, and the profound connections it fosters with humans.

The documentary features a diverse array of individuals — scientists, explorers, and even comedian Tracy Morgan — each sharing their unique encounters with these fascinating creatures.

Stream it on Prime Video from May 8.

Overcompensating is a semi-autobiographical college comedy series created

by Benito Skinner, known online as Benny Drama.

The show follows Benny (Skinner), a closeted former football player and homecoming king, navigating the chaotic journey of selfdiscovery in college.

He befriends Carmen (Wally Baram), a high school

outsider determined to they juggle disastrous hookups, sister (Mary Beth Barone) and her campus-legend boyfriend (Adam DiMarco).

On Prime Video from May 15.

Motorheads is a US coming-of-age drama set in the Rust Belt town of Ironwood, Pennsylvania. It follows a group of outsiders who bond over their shared passion for street racing.

While some characters deal with the complexities of high school social dynamics, others are racing to outrun shadows from their past.

Motorheads seems to have plenty of adrenaline- pumping action with heartfelt moments, all driven by the powerful connection these outsiders share.

Stream it on Prime Video from May 20.

Finneran’s next Netflix: Mysterious fateful encounter Siobhan Finneran is having a real moment on the small screen. From the beloved reception to the BBC’s breakout hit Happy Valley (which aired its intense finale in 2023) to leading her brand new ITV crime drama Protection (that’s just helped ITV’s streaming platform gain an impressive first-time record), she’s become a firm-favourite for UK viewers.

If you’re wondering what’s next for the actor (whose credits also include roles in the beloved period drama Downton Abbey, the Martin Freeman- fronted A Confession (now on Netflix) and Harlan Coben’s The Stranger), Finneran has been confirmed as part of the cast for the streaming giant’s upcoming psychological thriller Out Of The Dust.

The scripted series, which

has been described as a “cult drama”, is set to go “behind the closed doors of a fictional conservative religious sect”, according to its description on Netflix’s Tudum.

It will centre on the character of Rosie, “a devoted wife and mother who’s propelled into a dangerous journey of female emancipation and sexual awakening following a fateful encounter”.

The plot synopsis goes on to describe how Rosie is living in a “cloistered Christian community” with her husband, but that the “fateful arrival of the mysterious Sam, an escaped prisoner, reveals the reality and restraints of Rosie’s world”.

“Perhaps her hidden religious community doesn’t have her best interests at heart,” it suggests.

Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

true crime series to watch on Netflix 1. The Keepers

The Keepers consists of seven hourlong episodes (each one an hour long) that tell the case of a nun who was brutally murdered in 1969. There are certain known ideas about priests and conspiracies within the Catholic church and this docuseries really sheds light on what really happened behind closed doors. And more. This is heavy and is a lot to deal with. Get ready to be confused, angry, frustrated, sad, and anxious and desperate for answers.

2. Making A Murderer

There are two seasons to Making A Murderer, and plenty of time for you to try and figure out whose side you’re on. Steven Avery, recently free from a wrongful conviction and anxious to start his life over, is being convicted of another crime: the murder of Teresa Halbach.

At first, you suspect he’s guilty, but when more people enter each episode – witnesses and potential suspects (nephew Brendan Dassey!) – you start to question it. Sure, Steven’s not the perfect man…but could he really do something like that? Could Brendan Dassey really do something like that?

3. Confessions With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes In four and a half hours, this docuseries shows us Ted Bundy as Ted Bundy: the notorious US serial killer who brutally murdered more than30 women, the man who couldn’t make friends or a keep a relationship, who lacked empathy and love, who managed to escape prison twice, who was manipulative, and who was a plain old handsome devil in disguise.

We’ve always known him to be a serial killer, but this shows him as a human and that is the scariest part of it all.

4. The Staircase

The Staircase is one of the most frustrating, painful true crime docuseries.

Maybe because it consisted of 13 episodes, each one nearly an hour long.

Or maybe because Michael Peterson played the victim. Or maybe because some people actually believed that he didn’t murder his wife.

This documentary captures the defence team’s excruciatingly long journey to prove Michael’s innocence.

The details of this case throughout this series makes you question him and his innocence: uncovered secrets from his past, hidden relationships, and everything else in between.

5. The Innocent Man

The Innocent Man tells the stories of two different but two horrific murder cases in Ada, Oklahoma. In 1982, Ada police arrested, charged, and convicted Ron Williamson and Dennis Fritz for the rape and murder of 21 year-old Debbie Carter.

In 1984, Ada police arrested and convicted Tommy Ward and Karl Fontenot for the abduction, rape, and murder of Denise Haraway.

There are some loose threads in this docuseries and they don’t necessarily prove who murdered who, it is still watching

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

Transition Year Students of Coláiste Abhainn Rí 2023-2024

Ned O’Meara, 16, from Mullinahone, interviewed his father, Sean O’Meara, 49 also from Mullinahone

Ali Bryan, 17, from Modeshill interviewed her mother, Maria Power-Bryan, 55, originally from Modeshill

Dylan Gargan, 16, from Cuffesgrange, interviewed his grandfather, Matt Gargan, 75 originally from Ballybur Cuffesgrange

Emma Devoy,16, from Callan interviewed her Grandad, John Comerford, 73, originally from Kilmanagh

Holly McGowan, 16, from Mullinahone, interviewed her grandad, Joseph O’ Gorman, 87 from Mullinahone

Isobel Power, 16, from Kilkenny, interviewed her mother, Liesa O’ Keeffe Power, 52, originally from Kilkenny

know, that most people with long life experience are repositories of wisdom.”

Mount Carmel manager, Fergus Keane and Dr. Joe Kearney, award-winning documentary maker came up with a vision to collaborate with Coláiste Abhainn Rí. Fergus supported the res-

idents in visiting the school, while Joe was responsible for bringing RTÉ on board.

To prepare the students for this project, well-known producer of RTÉ’s Doc on One, Liam O’Brien, facilitated two workshops in the school where students involved in the project had an opportunity to voice their vision whilst gaining an insight into the interview process. In Coláiste Ábhainn Rí, English & History teacher, Ms. Julia Ova acted as a conduit between Fergus, Joe, and the school, guided the students through the process, facilitated the holding of interviews on the school premises, and edited the transcripts to shape this book.

“The collaboration between Coláiste Ábhainn Rí students, the residents of Mount Carmel, their families, and the broader Callan community has created a truly special project,” said McKenna in the foreword.

“It’s a living history, a collection of experiences, and a reminder to future generations to record their relatives’ life stories before it’s too late.”

The book launch on 7th May will offer attendees the chance to meet the contributors, learn more about the project, and purchase a copy of What Was It Like? The event is open to all, and your attendance would be much appreciated.

New publication chronicles the stories of the community of Callan and surrounding area What Was It Like? captures the memories from a vanished Ireland, as collected by the Transition Year students of Coláiste Abhainn Rí 2023-2024.

Coláiste Abhainn Rí and Mount Carmel are excited to announce the release of What Was It Like?, a new book created through a collaborative project between Transition Year students of ColáisteAbhainn Rí, their families, the residents of Mount Carmel Care Home and other members of the Callan community and surrounding areas in 2023-2024. The book will be launched on Wednesday, 7th May at 7pm at Coláiste Abhainn Rí Secondary School in Callan, Co. Kilkenny.

The book is the result of a project where Transition

Aiden Dunlop, 16, from Callan, interviewed his mother, Sandrine from Cherbourg in France

Year students interviewed a number of local people, including their families, Mount Carmel residents and members of the wider Callan community. The intent was to create a social

Aisling Freaney, 17, from Grangemockler, interviewed her granny, Mary Blanchfield, originally from Grangemockler

history document that preserves the rich personal and community histories of the residents of Callan and the wider surrounding areas. The students explored key moments from their interviewees’ lives, recording and documenting their experiences. Frank McKen-

na, retired principal, wrote the foreword, in which he reflects on the importance of preserving such stories, noting “People, especially young people, who have been lucky enough to spend time with their grandparents, elderly relations, or neighbours know, or will

Kara Doheny, 17, from Callan interviewed her nanny, Kathleen Comerford, originally from Dunnamaggin

Lauren Enright, 17, from Windgap, interviewed her grandad, Matt Enright, 81 originally from Limerick

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA

JUNIOR Clara began this year’s All County Junior Hurling League with an away fixture against Lisdowney on Saturday evening. In a very entertaining game the spoils were shared at 0-20 to 2-14. Clara will be slightly the unhappier of the two sides as they had the better chances to pull clear but importantly they showed the character to dig out the draw when the game seemed to be getting away from them.

The first half produced a fine scoring display, particularly from wing forward Conor Hoyne. Despite playing into the breeze Clara picked off some super points. Conor accounted for 8 of these, 6 from play. Joe Power added two peaches, while Conor Cody, Pádraic Staunton and Ben Murphy chipped in with one each. Clara led by six with halftime looming but a loss of focus allowed Lisdowney to score a point followed by a goal, leaving Clara 0-13 to 1-8 ahead at the break.

Clara again looked to have the upper hand early in the second half, outscoring their opponents four points to two, with Joe Connolly and Conor Hoyne bagging two each.

The wind seemed to change direction at this stage and Lisdowney came roaring back into it with an unanswered 1-2 to take the lead. Clara had to dig deep to salvage something and it was a case of déja vu with two Conor Hoyne frees countering two Lisdowney scores before Joe Power stepped up to grab the equaliser. A draw that might have felt like a loss but not a bad start either against a team with big club numbers.

Team - Cian Kelly, Brandon Ryan, Zach Lawlor, Luke Lawlor.

Rory O Keeffe, David Barcoe, Philip Carrigan. James Bergin, Conor Cody 0-1. Conor Hoyne 0-12, 0-4f, Joe Connolly 0-2, Joe Power 0-3. Ben Murphy 0-1, Killian Phelan, Pádraic Staunton 0-1. Subs used Daniel Ryan, Evan Whearty.

CAMOGIE Kilkenny won the All Ireland Minor Camogie final on Sunday in Nowlan Park by defeating favourites Cork on a comprehensive 3-8 to 0-8 scoreline. This was Kilkenny’s first minor win since 2021 when six Clara girls were involved.

Clara’s Lucy Boyd started at right half forward this year to maintain the club’s involvement and set the tone for the day by firing over the game’s opening point. Well done Lucy!

CLUB LOTTO The Lotto Results for 22nd April. The Numbers drawn were 6, 19 and 28.

There was one winning ticket. Congratulations to Ken and Sharon Breen.

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT The Kilkenny Bereavement Support Service provides free one to one listening support to people who are bereaved and can be contacted on 086 0670566 to arrange an appointment. Further information about the service can be seen on www.kilkennybereavementsupport.com.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

PEDAL TO THE SEA O’Loughlin Gaels fundraiser ‘Pedal to the Sea’ takes place this weekend as almost forty cyclists depart St. John’s Park on Friday morning and cycle to Dungarvan, Co. Waterford where they will stay overnight before a return cycle to Kilkenny on Saturday. All of the planning and logistics are in place so if you come across them on their route be sure to show your support. The cycle is an important fundraiser for O’Loughlin Gaels. Over the coming weeks works will begin on a new wall ball, astro turf and dressing rooms at St. Johns Park and the club is embarking on the development of a new greenfield site at Dunmore to include new pitches over the coming years. All help is greatly appreciated. Use the link below for more details on how to donate. https:// www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/OLoughlinGaels ANOTHER BUSY WEEKEND AT INTERCOUNTY LEVEL It was another busy weekend on the intercounty front for Kilkenny and once again O’Loughlin Gaels’ players were to the forefront on intercounty teams. In the Leinster senior hurling championship Kilkenny travelled to Corrigan Park on Sunday where they defeated Antrim. Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Paddy Deegan, Jordan Molloy, Fionán Mackessy and Luke Hogan all played while Owen Wall was also on the match day 26.

In the minor game, on the previous day, O’Loughlin Gael’s David Mc Gee, Cian Byrne, Conor Holohan and Adam Maher all played their part in Kilkenny’s win over Galway, under the mangement of Niall Bergin.

Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels Siofra O’Leary who was part of the Kilkenny minor camogie panel when Kilkenny won the All Ireland final, defeating Cork by 3-8 to 0-8 in UPMC Nowlan Park.

The club is extremely proud of all their players.

1975 AND 1995 TEAMS REUNION A reunion has been organised for the members of the 1975 and the 1995 O’Loughlin Gaels county final winning teams.

The reunion will take place in the Clubhouse on Saturday 17th May at 8.30pm. It promises to be a night of nostalgia, stories and chat for the members of the victorious teams of thirty and fifty years ago.

Under 15 Badminton team from St. John’s Cian Delaney Shane Molloy Cathal Kelly Aidan Burke.

SYMPATHY O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club extends its sincere sympathy to Peggy and the Gregg family on the sad passing of Tom. Tom was a founder member of the club in 1969 and continued his involvement with O’Loughlin’s as a player, selector, referee, barman and as a great clubman over many years, with his service and dedication being acknowledged when he became Club President some years ago. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated April 22nd. The numbers drawn were 3, 9, 21, 22 and the bonus number was 19. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels. com Promotors Draw. 1. Mags O’Connor c/o K Cleere. 2. Pat Gannon c/o JJ Cullen. 3. Eamonn Tyrrell. 4. The Sunday Six. 5. Sarah Moran c/o Ml Doran. 6. Gabby Maher c/o JJ Cullen.

7. Tanya Cody c/o M Cody. 8. Conor Denieffe c/o Online. 9.

Laura Butler c/o Online. 10. Jessica Foley c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

BADMINTON SUCCESS Well done to the U15 badminton team from St John’s representing Kilkenny who beat Wicklow in the Cairn Community games Leinster final in Westmeath last weekend.

They go on to compete in the nationals on 25th of May. The team was Cian Delaney, Shane Molloy Cathal Kelly, Aidan Burke.

COMMUNITY GAMES ATHLETIC FINALS St. John’s Community Games Athletics finals took place in the sunshine in Johns Park on 27th April and there was a great crowd in attendance. Thanks to Callan Couriers and Supervalu for sponsoring refreshments for the competitors and to O’Loughlin Gaels for hosting. The qualifiers go through to the County finals in the Watershed on 25th May. The results were as follows: Boys U8, 60m 1. Feidhlim Norry 2. Fionn Quinn 3. Darragh Brennan. 80m 1. Feidhlim Norry 2. Fionn Quinn 3. Darragh Brennan Girls U8, 60m 1. Mary-Kate Hyland 2. Autumn Grace Molloy.

80m 1. Mary-Kate Hyland 2. Autumn Grace Molloy Boys U10, 100m 1. Cian McIntyre 2. Ciarán Brennan 3.

Daniel Coogan. 200m 1. Cian McIntyre 2. Ciarán Brennan 3.

Joe Ryan Girls U10, 100m 1. Eve Coogan 2.Holly Quinn 3. Aoife McGrath. 200m 1. Summer-Nova Molloy 2. Eve Coogan 3.

Aoife McGrath Boys U12, 100m 1. Daniel Quinn, 2.Aed Norry 3, Andrew Coogan. 200m 1, Daniel Quinn, 2. Aed Norry 3. Andrew Coogan. 600m 1. Daniel Quinn 2. Andrew Coogan 3. Theo Doherty Girls U12, 100m 1. Lexi Keating 2.Winter-Rose Molloy 3.

Aoibheann Hyland. 200m. 1. Lexi Keating 2. Aoibheann Hyland 3. Winter-Rose Molloy. 600m 1. Winter- Rose Molly 2.

Aoibheann Hyland 3. Roisín Hyland Boys U14. 100m 1. Adam Cahill 2. Aaron Crosby. 200m 1.

Adam Cahill 2. Aaron Crosby. 800m 1. Adam Cahill Thanks to all who volunteered on the day to make the events such a great success.

NOTES

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

VILLAGE MOURNS FOR STEPHEN The people of Freshford and surrounding areas were in shock and mourning over the recent death of popular local man Stephen D’Arcy. Stephen who was son of John and Anne D’Arcy Clintstown Road Freshford took ill at his home and passed away four days later at Beaumont Hospital Dublin, which brought a shadow of darkness and gloom over the entire village. In his late 40s Stephen was one of a family of eight and was widely known and respected in the village. He was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, nephew and a great friend to many. He was a hard working fellow, a plasterer by trade but could turn his hands to anything and was always willing to help others who needed work done. He was an animal lover and his cat “Lucky” was his treasure. He was a keen Aston Villa supporter and wore the colours proudly and watched all their games and would be heard to shout “Come on The Villa”. He was a jovial and good humoured character, he loved the craic, meeting up with his friends for a game of 31s or a game of pool at his local. He will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. The crowds of people who called to his Family home and attended the funeral was a testament to how Stephen was thought of in the village and surrounding area. His funeral mass took place in St.Lachtains Church and burial took place afterwards in St. Lachtains Cemetery, Freshford. He is deeply mourned by his parents John and Anne, his son Cian, his brothers John and Liam, his sisters Patricia, Annmarie, Pauline, Bernadette and Grace his uncle, his sister in law, brothers in law, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended. Ar dheis De go raibh an anam SUMMER CAMP Freshfords longest running camp will take place again this year from 28th July to 1st August at GAA Grounds. The camp was founded by local man JJ Grace and has been running for over 20 years full of activity and fun. Places will be limited. For booking or for more information please contact JJ on 086 8629666 CAMOGIE CHAMPS Well done to two local girls Ciara Hickey and Michelle Killeen who were part of Kilkenny minor camogie panel who beat Cork in the All Ireland final at Nowlan Park on Sunday last.

SQUASH DOUBLE Freshford Squash club finished the season recently on a winning note after winning the Cup final in Dublin when they beat Westwood of Dublin on a score of 3-2. It was a great season overall for the Club winning the league and cup for the first time. Captain Philip Byrne received the cup and medals.

GAA NEWS St Lachtain’s Minor hurlers had a good win over neighbours Conahy Shamrocks last week in the League, winning

on a final score of 3-17 to 2-13. In the Junior F league St Lachtain’s beat neighbours Tullaroan by 3-21 to 4-12 on Friday evening last while on Saturday St Lachtain’s intermediate side beat St. Martins by 3-18 to 2-13.

The Junior B hurlers, intermediate and U16 all have league fixtures this week. You can check the Kilkenny GAA website and follow the social media networks for up to date fixtures and results.

Well done to two local boys Ryan Dalton and Jeff Phelan who represented St.Lachtain’s and Kilkenny at half time of the Antrim v Kilkenny Lannister Senior Hurling championship match in Belfast on Sunday last.

Fun Day: St. Lachtain’s will host a family fun day in Pairc Lachtains on bank holiday Sunday May 4th. Activities on the day will include bouncy castles, amusements, dunk a hurler, target practice and an U12 hurling blitz. Music will be by Keoghan Bergin and there will be food, ice cream and coffee available. Keep an eye on our socials for more info.

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT 2025 St. Lachtain’s GAA club will host a darkness into light walk around our walkway on the morning of May 10th again this year. All moneys raised will go to suicide awareness charities.

HOME FROM AUSSIE Home on holiday from Australia at present is Siobhan Colcough of Garnamanagah, Freshford.

SOCCER Freshford Town Junior side had no game at the weekend.

In their last outing they lost out 6-2 to Fort Rangers in their last game In the schoolboys/girls section the U12 boys had a 3-1 win over Highview on Saturday with all three goals coming from Jamie O’Rourke.

The club are presently planning for the regeneration project which was put together and permission for development of a synthetic grass playing surface to the existing grassed area is intended, erection of LED floodlighting to both the existing main grassed and proposed synthetic grass pitches with additional car parking provisions, two new sports dug outs to grassed pitch and upgrade of existing boundary walls and fencing drainage and all associated works.

IRISH DANCING The Malone school of Irish dancing has started and continues every Monday evening at 5.15pm in St. Lachtains GAA Clubhouse. All those interested should go along or for more information contact Michelle on 087 2063912 BINGO North Kilkenny Wheelchair association weekly bingo continues each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm.They are running a special bingo this Friday night, with extra sheets and extra prize money and a raffle. Eyes down and away you go at 8pm sharp. The hard working new committee are holding the bingo as a fundraiser for the Wheelchair Association, so why not go along and bring a friend or two along with you for a night out and a chance to win some good prizes while supporting a very good cause as well and keep the event going in the village.

NUENNA GROUP People are living longer, stronger and healthier lives nowadays, so why not have fun while improving your fitness with the local Nuenna social community group. Membership to Nuenna AC club for the year is €60 which is cheaper than a visit to the doctor.

SPLIT THE POT The winner of Split the pot last week was Rowan Carroll winning €172. The proceeds for the month of April go to St.Lachtains Bord na nOg. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs. Revolut is also available on 083 30411011 but don’t forget to include your name and address. Draw will take place each Saturday for the month LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter. So why not support your own local café, it makes sense to stay local. You can meet a friend or two for a chat and a cup of delish or some lovely homemade food or why not try out their new tarts.

The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. If you’re great at fixing a door hinge, baking a cake, or working in a kitchen – or just willing to learn there’s got lots to do. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday.

Ionad Lachtain hosted a lecture on Saturday evening last

by John G.O’Dwyer, Irish times contributor, and Chairperson of Tipperary Tourism and Pilgrim Paths Ireland on Walkways, Walking trails, pilgrim paths and their stories .

FOROIGE Foroige youth club meet each Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Community Hall They have music, a free library, stationary corner, games, chat and treats each week. New members are always very welcome. The

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

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Community & GAA Notes youth club is members only so if you are interest in joining please go along and sign up. They are also looking for adult volunteers. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla Church on Saturday evenings at7.30pm.

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

Mass Cards; Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr. Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 2523521 JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

JUNIOR HURLING LEAGUE On Friday evening the junior hurlers opened their 2025 Junior league campaign with a disappointing 0-18 to 1-11 loss to Windgap on a damp Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan playing surface. Having traded scores reaching 0-07 each at the 22nd. minute, in a keenly contested 1st round fixture, the James Stephens attack mysteriously lost their scoring touch striking four wides as Windgap went on to add four points of their own over the closing minutes to take a 0-11 to 0-07 lead into the break. In the opening quarter of the 2nd half the physically stronger Windgap defence continued to disrupt the determined efforts of the Village attack while adding four more points to increase their lead at 0-15 to 0-07 at the 15th minute. Finally in the 16th minute corner forward Jacob Breslin finished a high delivery to the net to raise hopes for success in the James Stephens camp, having reduced the deficit to five points at 0-15 to 1-07. The positive outlook continued with points from Sam McEvoy (18min), Eoin Deely (19min) and Shane Guilfoyle (20 min) to bring the visitors back to within two points at 0-15 to 1-10. However, once again, poor finishing was to prove the downfall of the home club with five more wasted opportunities as Windgap regained control to finish with a run of four points to claim the league points on a score of 0-18 to 1-11 at the final whistle. From a James Stephens perspective Padraig Joyce was rock solid in goal and shot over two long range points from placed balls while Bill Whelan, David Hennessy, Stephen Power-Kellett and Luke Hickey were impressive throughout in a hard pressed James Stephens defence. After a difficult seasonal start, surely better days lie ahead.

SENIOR CAMOGIE Over the last few weeks, the senior camogie panel has enjoyed a number of competitive outings in the Summer Camogie League, remaining undefeated after three rounds of the competition. In the pre-league/championship competition clubs are obliged to line out without their intercounty panellists giving opportunities to younger players to gain experience at this level of competition. Having already registered a comfortable win over O’Loughlin Gaels and a hard-earned draw against The Rower-Inistioge in the 1st round of the competition they faced Gowran on Saturday last in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. Once again, the young Village line-up had to come from behind with a late point to earn a deserved share of the points at 0-13 each at full time.

U-8 HURLING BLITZ On Sunday morning the club’s U-8 mentors hosted teams from the Lisdowney, Ballyragget and Bennettsbridge clubs for an U-8 Go-Games blitz tournament in Larchfield. The aspiring young hurlers proudly represented their clubs, possibly for the first time, enjoying a mildly competitive series of games which no doubt will have served to greatly improve their hurling skills. Our thanks to the visiting teams and their mentors/parents for their cooperation over a busy morning. On Sunday morning the U-12 panel played a number of games against Dicksboro under the Go-Games rules. Some great skills for such young players were to be seen from both panels during the series of games. Again, well done to all involved.

U-10’s ON TOUR Juvenile officer Kieran Brennan reports that the U-10 panel will travel to Co. Wexford on Saturday next to participate in the Blackwater U-10 Blitz tournament. The well organised annual event will give the young James Stephens hurlers an opportunity to build on their promising showings in the recent excellent organised CBS blitz tournament.

NURSERY NEWS Juvenile officer Kieran Brennan informs us that the club’s Nursery group continues to grow week on week and will always welcome new members to come and join the group. The Nursery group meets on Wednesday evenings in Larchfield, from 6.15p.m. There will always be qualified club coaches present to assist with enquiries from parents interested in having their child join the group.

REFEREE’S COURSE A notice has been issued by Referees Coordinator, Michael Walsh, that a Referee’s Foundation Course takes place on Wednesday 30th April at 7pm in UPMC Nowlan Park.

The appeal from Mr. Walsh comes as there is a serious need to recruit new referees for the growing number of fixtures across all levels of competition during the league and championship season. For anyone interested contact

Michael at 087-1203049 LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 1, 3, 19, 24. There was no winner.

The €40 consolation winners were Laura Grogan, Anne Burke, Deirdre Stynes, Jim Dollard and Mags Cahill.

BENNETTSBRIDGE

EASTER OFFERINGS Thanks to all who subscribed to the Easter Offerings. These can still be handed in and the priests of the parish are very appreciative of your support.

MASS TIMES Friday 2nd May 10.30am LOTTO No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 12, 14, 16, 26. Consolation Prizes, Dean Denieffe, Kilbline, Julie Drennan ℅ D. Power, Leona Wemyss, Jerpoint, Breda Cleere, The Ring, Pat O’Neill, Ballyreddin.

BASKETBALL Kayla Wall and Amy Hughes were part of the Kilkenny Stars U16 girls who completed the domestic clean sweep at the weekend with a win in the top 4 final V Tramore. This sees the girls finish the year with the league, cup and top 4 trophies. A truly inspirational team. Well done to the team and management.

GATHERING GROUP Members are looking forward to resuming their weekly meetings following the Easter break.

ART GROUP Meeting as usual this Monday under tutor, Julie Moorhouse. All systems go now as artists get ready for their annual exhibition during Kilkenny Arts Week. Good wishes went to Joan Cleere who celebrated a significant birthday at the weekend.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION There were special celebrations at the weekend for Joan Cleere on a significant birthday milestone. A family get together marked the occasion.

EAST END SOCCER East End Junior A’s are heading to the final! A hard-fought 2-1 win over Evergreen saw them through to the Junior Div 2 Ken and Michael Byrne Cup Final next Saturday, May 3rd at Derdimus Park!

Goals from Gearóid Kent (penalty) and Noah Walsh Brennan sealed the victory in a brilliant match. Well done lads, Good luck in the final!

There was a good win for East End U12s at the weekend! It was a hard-fought 2-1 away victory against Callan United, led by captain for the day, Cormac Cody. Goals from Robbie O’Malley and Micheál Denieffe sealed the result!

An outstanding team performance full of grit and determination, with a special shoutout to Alowen Grimes, who was superb between the posts, pulling off some brilliant saves to keep Callan at bay. Well done, lads — brilliant effort all around BORD NA N-OG A big well done to Bennettsbridge U8s who played their first Go Games blitz today hosted by James Stephens. A great morning was had by all. Lots of fun and good hurling.

The future is bright with our upcoming little superstars.

GAA Club Games Hard luck to our under 14 football team who put in a brave performance but lost out by 7 points to Gowran in the Roinn A championship semi- final.

Our under 16 team played Dunamaggin in the league last Monday evening while our junior E team played Danesfort last Sunday evening. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for upcoming fixture details and changes. Best of luck to all ‘Bridge teams.

Signage Campaign Bennettsbridge GAA club have launched a Pitch signage

Bennettsbridge U8s who played their first Go Games blitz today hosted by James Stephens campaign. This will be used to pay off the outstanding loan on our development. A sub-committee has been formed so any businesses wishing to have their name advertised on the surrounding pitch wall should contact the subcommittee members for the terms and details: Alan Flynn, Alan Morrissey, Tommie Hughes, Tim Dooley and Mary Blanchfield. The first signs have been erected in the past week and look very impressive. Thanks to all the business owners who have supported us so far.

Club membership Club membership for the coming year is now due. Membership can be paid to Samantha McGarry or to any committee member. Fees for non-playing members €40, student players €80 and adult players €120. Membership can also be paid online through club spot. Payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2025 are coming in.

Hurlers Co-Op Draw Tickets will be on sale from committee members in the coming days for this year’s Hurlers Co-Op Draw (Piltown Draw). The first draw will take place on June 10th this year.

Thanks again for the continued support.

Inter-county Games Jamie Walsh was on the Kilkenny minor panel that had a win over Galway in the second round of the Leinster championship. Eoin Walpole played well for Kilkenny in the Celtic Challenge win over Tipperary in Nowlan park on Saturday last. Best wishes to the lads in their upcoming games and to all ‘Bridge players on the squads at the moment.

New Away Jersey We launched a new club away jersey last Friday. Thanks again to Bennettsbridge Limestone for their sponsorship and support. The jersey will be on the club’s online shop in the coming weeks.

Last Man Standing

The last man standing is up and running again for this year’s championship. Details are on the clubs social media pages. Thanks to all who supported it this year.

Split the Pot Well done to Liam Blanchfield who won 100 euro, to David Foley who won 30 euro and to Ellie Moran who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the continued support.

EASTER CAMP A really enjoyable week was had by all at the Easter camp in Bennettsbridge. Over 100 children took part in a large variety of activities including hurling, Gaelic football, rounders, rugby, playground games, dodge ball, arts and crafts, Lego, drama and music. The weather was mainly dry accept for some light rain on the last day. The children enjoyed the excellent facilities in the GAA grounds and also in the community hall. Many thanks to coaches Conor Murphy, Lucy Schneider, Kerrianne Power, Eoin Walpole and Erin Morrissey.

GOWRAN

DAWN WALK Please support Dawn Walk in aid of Teac Tom. Teac Tom is a local charity run solely on donations. It provides much needed mental health services for both young and old.

Young Irelands GAA are asking the community to please come out on Saturday, May 3rd, and walk with us to support this worthy cause.

GOWRAN PARK The next race meeting to be held in Gowran Park is the Vintage Tipple Stakes (Listed) and Victor McCalmont Memorial Stakes (Listed) on Wednesday 7th May 2025. The first race is at 5.20pm. Complimentary Shuttle Bus service will leave from Kilkenny City Centre (just above the gates of Kilkenny

Thanks to Bennettsbridge Limestone for their continued sponsorship and support of Bennettsbridge Gaa. Pictured are Niall Lyons and Michael Brennan of Bennettsbridge Limestone with Alan Flynn, Mary Blanchfield , Pa

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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Community & GAA Notes Castle) One Hour before the first race.

DALTON HOUSE DAYCARE CENTRE Come along and join in the craic with a singalong at 8pm every Wednesday night at Dalton House.

GOWRAN AC Massive congratulations to Kathryn Kennedy who competed in the 129th Boston Marathon in an incredible time of 3:23:16 Huge shoutout to Ray Lahart running 2:45:55 in the Manchester marathon.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Well done to qualifiers over the weekend for the Leinster Matchplay finals David, Matthew and Michael Holland and John McDonald. Best of luck in the finals in May. GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE Summer one act plays will take place on 27th and 28th May in Gowran Parish Hall.

Promotors prize Paddy Maher We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up and play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so.

HURLS AND HELMETS NEEDED Anyone that has spare hurls (up to size 30”) or unwanted helmets from u6’s to Senior Level that are in a reasonable condition to please bring them to Dressing room 4 in Palmerstown or contact Conor Hogan with any queries.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE Massive congratulations to Kilkenny Minor Team who overcame a very good Cork side to claim the All Ireland Title Sunday 27th April. Well done to our Club Girls involved Kate Meighan, Ali Greaney and Kate Dowling.

U23’S Congratulations to Caoimhe Carroll who will Captain the u23 Kilkenny Team for 2025. The girls played their first match recently with a one point win over Meath. We wish them the best of luck in their Leinster Campaign KILKENNY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT The Kilkenny Bereavement Support Service provides free one to one listening support to people who are bereaved and can be contacted on 086 0670566 to arrange an appointment. Further information about the service can be seen on www.kilkennybereavementsupport.com

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES Should you have any news items, club events, announcements etc., you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@ outlook.com.or ring 0892579882 LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER The numbers drawn on 22/04/2025 were 18, 21, 22, 30, there was no winner. The following received €30, James Meaney, Sophie Jordan, Brid, Pat, Mary Cantwell, Pat Doyle Coolroe, Tickets are available from any club member.

RAMBLING HOUSE The Monthly Rambling House Session is held on the second Friday of the month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also many from the surrounding district. The next Session is on Friday April 9th 2025 at 7.30pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH Mass is held on Monday to Friday 10am, Saturday 7pm, and Sunday 11am.

CLINIC Cllr Brian Cleere will hold his clinic at Upper Main Street, Graiguenamanagh on Saturdays Evenings 6.30 pm.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

Tom Healy

ACTIVE RETIREMENT The Active Retirement Group meet on Thursday 8th May at 11am in the Paulstown Community Hall.

BARROWVALE LOCAL HISTORY GROUP The Barrowvale Local History Group meets next at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge on Wednesday 7th May at 7pm. with a discussion on “Goresbridge its origins and

early development” BOXING (PAULSTOWN) Following the recent contest at the National Stadium, the club now has three new All-Ireland champions - Emmie Jacobs, Annalise O’Reilly and Lauren Doyle.

BRIDGE UNITED Bridge United won 2-1 against Clover in the McCalmont Cup semi -final with Bridge scores by Tommy Bolger and Conor English. The most recent winners of the Lotto are: Sam O’Neill, Siobhan Southey and Caroline Gardiner (€35 each).

CAR PARKING The development of the new car park on the county Carlow side of the bridge at Goresbridge is warmly welcome by the community. Feel free to park there please, and not on the footpaths!

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm

ST MARY’S PARISH

All-Ireland champions from Paulstown Boxing club - Lauren Doyle, Annalise O’Reilly and Emmie Jacob and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm.

The Easter General Vestry takes place at 8.30pm on Tuesday 6 May in St Laserian’s Cathedral.

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

FLEADH CHEOIL The Kilkenny Fleadh Cheoil takes place from 9th-11th May. There will be events taking place in Paulstown Community Hall, Blakes Pub and The Shamrock Pub. The weekend kicks off on Friday 9th May with a concert by Ceoltóirí Kilkenny Junior Entertainment Group at 7pm in the community hall followed by a trad session in Blakes Pub at 9.30pm.

HORSE SALES Horse Sports Sales (Goresbridge) takes place from 7-9 May. Catalogues have been available from 28th April.

MENS SHED The Mens Shed takes place on Tuesday 6th May at 11am in the Community Hall in Paulstown. Cup of tea, chat, woodwork and visits to other sheds.

SHANKILL CASTLE Shankill Castle reopens to the public each weekend (11.00am - 5pm). The Grounded in Nature Forest School for 5-11 year olds recommences on 14th May for a 6-week term of afternoon sessions as well as on 21st May for a 5-week term for parents and children. Further information:

Paulstown club coaches, champions and runners up in the National Stadium.

groundedinnaturefs@gmail.com SPLIT THE POT Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser. ie The results for the 27th April draw were: 1. Murt O’Neill (€100), 2. Jimmy Wall (€20) and 3 Christina Holden (€20).

DICKSBORO

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 24th April 2025, the Numbers drawn were 5 9 15 32, The Jackpot was not won. Draw Prizes – €50 Pat Quintana c/o Online, €25 each Richie Hogan c/o Phil Hogan, €25 each Pat Kenny c/o Paddy Maher, €25 each Richard Lanigan c/o Jimmy Murphy, Hurlers Co Op Sean Lynch c/o Online.

Caoimhe Carroll

ST MARY’S DAY CARE CENTRE St Mary’s Day Care Centre, Haughney Green, Gaol Road, Kilkenny (near the Fair Green) has been serving the needs of St Mary’s Parish and the wider community since 2001.

The centre is not just for St Mary’s Parish and there is no age limit, everyone is welcome. If you would like to take advantage of this amenity, contact the care manager on 056 7770789 or office@stmarysdaycarecentre.com MondayFriday 9.00am to 5.00pm. It provides Bingo, Hair Dresser, Chiropody as well as Arts & Crafts among other services.

SPRING CONCERT The Kilkenny Choir is looking forward to holding their annual spring concert on Saturday, May 3rd at 7pm in St. Canice’s Cathedral, Dean Street, Kilkenny. The choir is conducted by Patrick Rafter and this year’s musical selection includes excerpts from some of the finest choral repertoire, including works from Mozart, Brahms, Barber, Orff, Vivaldi and Jenkins.The concert will feature renowned Irish mezzosoprano, Sharon Carty who is currently an artistic partner with Irish National Opera As always, the choir will be accompanied by a professional orchestra comprising some of Ireland’s leading instrumentalists from the National Symphony Orchestra and the National Concert Orchestra.

TROCAIRE A gentle reminder to return your envelopes. Thank you to those who have already done so. Your support is appreciated.

OSSORY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 19TH25TH MAY 2025 The Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 19th-25th May 2025. Bus transport from Loughboy Shopping Centre and Castlecomer GAA pitch to Cork Airport. Full religious programme. Choice of 3* & 4* hotels €949 and €995 respectively. Bookings JWT 01-2410800 or info@joewalshtours.ie. Assisted pilgrims contact Fr Anthony O’Connor 087-2517766.

KILKENNY MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE Direct Flight to Mostar Medjugorje 4th–11th June 2025.

(Month of the Sacred Heart and includes Pentecost Sunday). Hotel near the church cost €875 accompanied

by Spiritual Director. For bookings contact Ann on 086 1991620 or 086 8825622 FAMILY CARERS IRELAND Are you caring for a loved one at home with additional needs? A spouse, partner, child, close relative or neighbour? Then you are a family carer! Become a member of Family Carers Ireland, the national charity supporting Ireland’s 500,000+ family carers nationwide. Contact 057 9370221 and hear how we can support you or for more info visit www.familycarers.ie.

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL CAFE Our Volunteers: Everyone who greets you in St. Mary’s Cathedral café are volunteers giving their time freely. They believe in making our café a space where people of the community can connect & know they are not alone. All profits from St Mary’s Cathedral Café go directly to supporting mental health services & suicide intervention provided

by Teac Tom. We’re open at the moment Saturday 10am4pm and Sunday 10am-1pm BUS ESCORT Mother of Fair Love School is looking for a Bus Escort and to form a panel for Bus Escort positions that may arise over the coming months. Please apply with CV to principal@ motheroffairlove.ie or by post to The Principal, Mother of Fair Love School, James’s Street, Kilkenny or call the office at 056-7721352 for more information.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Can you spare approx. 1 hour per week? The “Meals on Wheels” service need new volunteers to deliver meals around Kilkenny city. Must be a car driver. If you would like to join our team please ring the Kilkenny Social Services at this number: 056 7721685.

KILMACOW

COUNCIL WORKS AT SMARTSCASTLE

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

Community & GAA Notes As part of the consultative process Kilkenny County Council will host a workshop in Ferrybank Library from 6.0pm to 8.00pm on Wednesday, 7th May. FERRYBANK LIBRARY The Library will host a workshop with Deirdre Lindy ‘Then and Now: The Wisdom We Carry’ from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Friday, 23rd May. Through conversation, life coaching and mindful practices, the focus will be on resilience, selfkindness, and valuing our own journey. Places are limited.

Please telephone the Library at 051 897200 or email ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie to book a place.

ANTI-LITTER AND ANTI-GRAFFITI GRANT SCHEME ‘25 The closing date for completed applications to Deirdre Trait, Environment Section, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny is Friday, 23rd of May 2025. Please contact Deirdre at 056 779 4366 for more information.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

Michael Kinsella and Gail Walsh helping with the Kilmacow Spring Clean on Sunday, 27th April Bridge Rehabilitation works are progressing on the bridge at Smartscastle. The underground services have been reinstated and the road was reopened before the school opened on Monday. Temporary traffic light will be in operation during this week on the bridge to facilitate the construction of parapet walls on the bridge.

ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN Thanks to all who helped with the annual Spring Clean in Kilmacow which took place on Sunday, 27th April. There were 20 bags of litter collected along with a small number of other items including plastic drums, metal bars and timber. It represented a significant reduction on previous years which reflected well on the increased level of environmental awareness resulting in lower levels of general litter, the impact of the cans and bottles deposit scheme and the efforts of so many people locally to keep areas close to where they live free from litter. Thanks to Michael Kinsella for collecting the bags from the different locations around Kilmacow, to Kathleen Williams for facilitating the storage of the litter, to Kilkenny County Council for supplies of gloves, hi-viz jackets and litter pickers and for the removal of the collected litter. Thanks to Edward Doyle, David Williams and Tomás Breathnach for coordinating the Spring Clean and to An Taisce for their continuing support of this annual community initiative.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 1, 2, 10 and 18. There were two Match 3 winners.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY This year’s coach trip is to Fethard and Clonmel on Saturday 31st May. The expected cost of the trip will be similar to 2024 (€70 for members and €75 for non-members).

KREATIVE SPACE Kilmacow Youth Club will host a Kreative Space in the Community Centre from 7.00pm to 9.00pm on Mondays, commencing 12th May. The space will be used for sharing skills, learning new ones, being creative with like-minded people and socializing. Admission is €5. Please contact the Youth Club by e-mail at kilmacowyouthclub@gmail.com or by telephone on 087 672 1976 for more information.

GRAVEYARDS The working group for local graveyards will begin its work for this year at the Lower Street from 2.00pm on Saturday, 10th May. All offers of assistance appreciated.

MULLINAVAT

DARKNESS INTO LIGHT The fourth annual Darkness into Light walk will be held in Mullinavat from 4.20am on Saturday, 10th May. The walk will commence from the Community Centre and will follow a circuit to return there where tea and refreshments will be served afterwards. Donations can be made online to the Mullinavat Darkness into Light account. All support is welcome.

MULLINAVAT MATTERS A general meeting of Mullinavat Matters will be held in the Community Centre (Library) at 8.00pm on Tuesday, 13th May. All welcome to attend.

COUNTY HERITAGE STRATEGY The Heritage Office is asking communities for their input in to the next Kilkenny County Heritage Strategy, 2026-2030.

SYMPATHY Sympathies are sent to the Mooney family on the sad passing of Noel Mooney, Tinweir. To his sisters Mary, Miriam, Lilly and Deirdre, his brother Pat, Kieran and Bill, his sisters in law Helen, Kathleen and Eleanor, his brothers in law Brian and Liam, his cherished nieces and nephews, his extended family and a large circle of friends. Noel’s funeral took place in Ballyouskill Church and burial was in the adjoining cemetery.

COIS NORE Ballyragget Cois Nore Outreach Service is available to anyone seeking Cancer Support, information, or registration to Cois Nore’s free of charge and confidential services at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, The Square, Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon. All are welcome.

MEMORY BASKETS Ballyragget Development are now taking orders for the memory baskets on the Bridge. They cost €30 for a new basket and €15 for a refill. Please PM the Facebook page or contact a member to order.

JOHNSTOWN CHURCH NEWS All ceremonies for Holy Week and Easter were very well attended in the three parishes. Easter offerings for the support of the priests are now due. Please return your Trocaire boxes as soon as possible so that the money collected can be forwarded to Trocaire.

RECENTLY MARRIED Congratulations to Tara Nolan, daughter of Larry and Pauline, Foulkscourt and Colm Scott, Inchorourke, Urlingford on the occasion of their marriage recently in St. Kieran’s Church. Also congratulations to Alan Beehan and Sandra Heffernan on their recent wedding in Hotel Kilkenny. They are all wished a long and happy life together.

CROSSPATRICK TRACTOR AND VINTAGE RUN The Crosspatrick Tractor and Vintage Run takes place on Sunday May 4th in aid of the Home Care Team. Registration 12.30pm € 20. Run leaving Crosspatrick Village at 1.30pm followed by BBQ, refreshments and music in The Crosspatrick. Contact Larry Whyte at 0862658151 or Declan Carroll at 0879564520.

MENTAL HEALTH A four weeks course facilitated by wellbeing coach Jennifer Van Uffelen in mindfulness, breathwork and relaxation in the Daycare, Urlingford Childcare centre E41 T6Y beginning on today April 30th from 10am to 11.30am. The course is free to participants and is funded by SICAP. Contact KLP Office at 056772111.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to local GP’s Drs. Eilish and Pat Maher and family who have been bereaved by the death of Eilis’ Dad Eamonn O’Shea, Gleann Loic, Dunquin, Co. Kerry.

FENIANS GAA A 2K/4K/5K run/walk on Friday May 2nd at 7.30pm in the sportsfield, Rathdowney Road, Johnstown. Voluntary donations on the evening to fund the bus for the children to the Cul Camp in Freshford during the summer holidays. All are welcome.

THE MILL CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Advice Clinic each Friday from 10am to 12 noon. General counselling services, Stress, bereavement, Anxiety addictions and play Therapy available at the Mill. Vegetable beds available at the Allotments € 15 each.

Contact Sue 056 8838466.

SPA UNITED AFC Results U16 boys league division 2 Callan 1 Spa 1, U15 boys league division 1 Spa 0 Evergreen 3, U14 boys league division 1 Spa 2 Freebooters 3, U13 girls cup Thomastown 1 Spa 2, U12 boys league division 1A Spa 3 Evergreen 0, U12 boys league division 2A Spa 2 Southend 0, U12 girls league division 1A Spa 4 Freebooters 0.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were 10,20,27,29.There was no jackpot winner and no match three. Four lucky dips Tom Carroll, Tom Kirwan, Michelle c/o Post Office and Annette Phelan.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

JUNIOR CERT MATH GRINDS Math Grinds continue every Wednesday 5-6pm, €10 per session. Places limited so please contact the Centre if interested.

COIS NORE

Outreach Advice Clinic, at the Mill every Friday Morning from 10am to 12pm COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 4+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

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

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be dropped off during our opening hours. Please call before dropping off.

ALLOTMENTS Allotment beds are available in the Polytunnel, €15 per bed, contact Sue in the MFRC. 056 88 38466 For further information, please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466 GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

MAY FAMILY MASS May Family Mass takes place this weekend, May 3rd and 4th in both churches. As usual there will be a music practice from half an hour before the start of each mass, and we warmly welcome any children or adults who would like to join us singing.

THE ROSARY The Rosary will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Glengoole on weekday evenings at 6pm, Saturday before 6pm Mass and Sunday 12 noon.

SACRAMENTAL DATES First Holy Communion for the school children in the parish will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

TROCAIRE BOXES Please return your Trocaire box/envelope as soon as possible to the Church or Parochial House so that all monies received can be passed on. Many thanks for your generous contributions to date SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP The Senior Social Group meets every Wednesday afternoon 1pm-3pm. This includes two course meal followed by tea/ coffee and live music, with transport to and from the centre available. Please contact Alice Teehan on 083-1014313 for further information.

CASHEL AND EMLY PILGRIMAGE June 13th - 18th. Cost from €969, flights from Shannon.

Pilgrimage Director: Rev. Jimmy Donnelly. Bookings and Enquires: Contact Joe Walsh Tours @ info@joewalshtours. ie or 01 241 0800. Assisted Pilgrims only, please contact: Very Rev. Joe Tynan, PP: lourdesassistedpilgrimage@ cashel-emly.ie or 087 222 5445.

GORTNAHOE BINGO A special May bank holiday weekend bingo will be held this Saturday evening 3rd May at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €4,000 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game and a May bank holiday special game for €800. There will be hampers and Split the Pot on the day. It will be great afternoons entertainment for all on the bank holiday weekend. Support from the Parish would be appreciated.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Mary O’Connor who is a regular bingo player who won €288 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday.

Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of May Split the Pot will be in support of Gortnahoe National School. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

ROSEMARY CAFÉ, MFRC Coffee morning Tuesday 6th May 11:30 to-1 in aid of Alzheimer’s Society. 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 will be taking place soon and it is hoped that groups in every village work together to impress 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. It is also noted that cans and plastic bottles are now recycled in all shops and credit is given for each item returned.

CONAHY

HURLING The junior E hurlers enjoyed a great win over Piltown in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior E League in Piltown on Friday

night last. With a team mixed with experience and young players starting out in adult level, Conahy played extremely well throughout and won out on a 2-17 to 1-11 score line.

They next face Danesfort on Sunday week, May 11th, at 11.30 a.m.

The minor hurlers played St. Lachtain’s in Jenkinstown in the Kilkenny Motor Centre Roinn B League. The Freshford boys started briskly with a couple of early goals to open up a big lead at half time. But Conahy hurled far better in the second half, and reduced the gap by a decent amount.

However, St. Lachtain’s had enough to spare in the end, winning by 3-17 to 2-13.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 1, 10 and 12. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Carina Saunders, James Lawless, Mary O’Connor, James Holohan and Michael and Mairead Bergin. The promoter prize winners were John McGrath, Brian Lacey and Margaret Buggy. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD

MASS TIMES AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.

Friday 2nd. Feast of St. Athanasius. Saturday 3rd. Feast of SS. Philip and James (Apostles) FIRST FRIDAY Visitation with Holy Communion will take place as usual on Friday. Please let us know if you would like to receive Holy Communion in your home for the First Fridays or at any other time.

PRAY FOR Holy Father Pope Francis who died on Easter Monday Anniversary Masses, Fr. Jim Walsh, Ballagh; Mass in Hugginstown on Saturday 3rd. at 8.00p.m. Joan Foran, Monroe; Mass in Hugginstown on Sunday 4th. at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER) Reader, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Neill O’Grady, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power: Sunday 10.00a.m.

Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm.

Mary Cahill, Sunday 10.00am. Lillian Carr OSSORY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES The Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 19th to 25th May. Bus transport from Loughboy Shopping Centre to Cork Airport. Direct flights to Lourdes. Full religious programme. Bookings at JWT 01- 2410800 or email info@ joewalshtours.ie.

DATES TO REMEMBER IN THE PARISH FOR 2025: First Holy Communion: Stoneyford School on Sunday 11th. May at 11.00a.m. in Stoneyford Church. Monroe/ Newmarket Schools on Sunday 18th. May at 11.00a.m. in Hugginstown.

Cemetery Masses: Mass will be celebrated in Calvary Cemetery on Friday 6th. June at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 4th. July at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 5th. July at 8.00p.m.

LOUGH DERG PILGRIMAGE Jubilee Year of Hope, Pilgrimage to Lough Derg; Join Bishop Niall Coll on Friday 30th. May to Sunday 1st. June 2025. Pilgrimage is organised by the Diocesan Youth Ministry Team. For further information please contact the Ossory Diocesan Office: Tel.056 776 2448 or Email at admin@ossory.ie.

EASTER COLLECTION Envelopes for the Easter Collection are available in the Church. Your contribution is for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. (To donate directly.) Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831) REMEMBRANCE SERVICE St. Luke’s General Hospital Remembrance Service for families who have been bereaved by the death of their child during pregnancy, shortly after birth or in Childhood years will take place on Wednesday 30th. April at 7.30p.m. in St. Fiacra‘s Church, Loughboy.

IRISH BLOOD TRANSFUSION SERVICE We will be returning to The Carrig Hotel, Carrick-on-Suir for a Blood Donation Clinic on Monday 28th. and Tuesday 29th. April.

The blood supply is currently low and with a high demand for blood from our hospitals nationally, it is imperative that we continue to maintain the blood supply.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 21st. April 2025 Numbers: 23; 09; 06; 28. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Tommy Phelan, Gowran: Mary Irish, c/o James Irish: Kathleen Moran, Cherrymount: Doireann Power-Rice, Killarney: Fred Malzard. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Trish Power: James Irish: Walshe’s Shop.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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Annual awards night

L to R John Dalton league sponsor, Eamon Cleere, Paula Rutkins O’Neill Centre, Gerry O’Keefe.

Brendan Tynan presents the James Tynan Memorial Trophy to James Bolger Egans Bar League Championship winners.

Kytelers Inn hosted the Kilkenny Floodlit Soccer League's annual Awards Kilkenny Floodlit Soccer League's annual Awards night took place in Kytelers Inn last Friday.

The winners and runners-up received their trophies, which were presented by the league sponsor, John Dalton of Daltons Chancellor Mills.

Throughout the season, which ran from October to the end of April, a total of six competitions were held.

Congratulations to Egans Bar FC, who had a fantastic season, winning both the League Championship and the Division 1 league title. In Division 2, league newcomers CC Utd. emerged as the winners while Glendine FC continued their success in the Floodlit Cup, retaining the trophy they also won last season.

Noreside FC from Lisdowney secured the Dalton Cup, and Rural Roads Utd. triumphed in the Shield competition.

The Player of the Year awards were presented to Dave Mc Clure of Egans Bar for Division 1 and

Tadhg Gill of CC Utd. for Division 2, recognizing their outstanding contributions throughout the season.

League coordinators Eamon

Cleere and Gerry O’Keefe marked the end of the season by presenting a cheque for €5000 to Paula Rutkins, Service Director at O’Neill Centre Kilkenny, for their

Tomas Leahy CC Utd receives Division 2 Trophy.

valuable work in the community.

This successful season concludes another year of Floodlit Soccer, and we are already looking forward to the

next season, which will be a special milestone as it marks the 25th season of the league. Plans are already underway to make it another memorable year.

Peter O’Sullivan Noreside FC receives Dalton Cup.

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Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster SHC – Round 2 Antrim 2-12 Kilkenny 2-30 Corrigan Park, Belfast The Kilkenny changing room in Corrigan Park would have been an interesting place to be at halftime last Sunday afternoon with Antrim holding a one-point lead over the current provincial champions. Derek Lyng and his management team, probably along with senior players must have decided that the first half showing couldn’t be repeated if the Cats were to leave the North with a second win of the 2025 Leinster Championship.

The Noresiders upped the ante after the interval and ran out 18-point winners against a gallant Saffrons side.

The visitors took to the Naomh Eoin pitch without Adrian Mullen and Shane Murphy, who both limped out of the round 1 clash with Galway. Tommy Walsh and Stephen Donnelly started the second group fixture for Derek Lyng’s charges, and both contributed to the travelling sides tally of 2-30. Kilkenny came out of the traps quickly, and raced into an early 5-point lead, in as many minutes, thanks to scores from Thomastown’s Stephen Donnelly (2), the irrepressible, Martin Keoghan, a booming placed ball effort from Fionan Mackessy and a quality point from former skipper, Paddy Deegan, as the home side struggled to keep tabs on those in black and amber.

Davy Fitzgerald’s outfit did get the scoreboard moving in the 6th minute, courtesy of their top scorer, James McNaughton who struck over the first of nine placed balls for the Ulstermen, but this didn’t halt the Kilkenny train as the next three scores all came from the Marble City side and all were from open play. Mossy got his second of the afternoon, while the hard-working Jordan Molloy notched his first and Stephen Donnelly hit his third white flag raiser, as the away team opened up what appeared to be a very comfortable 7-point lead after ten minutes of action in Corrigan Park. A large travelling support were enjoying their sides start in Belfast, while Davy Fitz was barking orders to his troops, asking for more.

The Saffrons appeared to awaken and became a lot more competitive against their more illustrious opponents. Loughgiel’s James McNaughton popped over his second free of the game and this was built on by nice scores from Dunloy’s Keelan Molloy and a cracking longdistance strike from Naomh Eoin’s Conal Bohill. Antrim full forward McNaughton tagged on a third placed ball to reduce the Cats lead to three, before adding a major score for his side. The lively Conor Johnston showed skill and determination to gain possession in the left corner

Cody & Kilkenny enjoy Belfast trip Two from two in Leinster campaign

and had the presence of mind and ability to play a lovely ball to McNaughton who rifled home from a tight angle to raise a green flag, but more importantly, draw the sides level with 17 minutes on the clock in Belfast. Indeed, The Naomh Eoin player almost added another 3-pointer shortly after, but was denied by the woodwork.

With TJ Reid still absent, the majority of placed balls are the responsibility of his Shamrocks Ballyhale

Eoin Cody getting the better of Paddy Burke

clubmate, Eoin Cody, and the twice former Young Hurler of the Year hit three on the bounce to edge the Noresiders ahead by the same number.

A Shamrock of the Loughgiel kind, James McNaughton added two more of his own, before Cody fired over a fine score before the Saffrons breached Eoin Murphy’s line again.

Dunloy Cuchullains Keelan Molloy raced onto a long ball into the danger zone and struck the sliotar to the Kilkenny net. Antrim

now led and the home crowd were enjoying the spectacle unfolding.

McNaughton and Cody traded frees before Galway whistler, Shane Hynes brought the first half to a close, with Davy Fitz’s side one point ahead.

When the second half got underway, Cody and McNaughton converted frees while Derek Lyng made his first change of the game, Dicksboro’s Harry Shine replacing O’Loughlin’s Fionan Mackessy.

The impressive Eoin Cody added a brace of scores before sub Shine split the Antrim posts to edge the Cats two ahead. Loughgiel’s attacking talisman, McNaughton fired over another score before captain Nigel Elliott pointed after his goal bound effort was deflected over

by Kilkenny netminder Eoin

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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Hurling matters - Review went for the jugular. Mossy notched another pair of points, while his Tullaroan teammate, Tommy Walsh got on the scoresheet also.

A second point of the round two clash then followed for Cian Kenny while more accuracy from the dead ball saw Eoin Cody notch another.

Derek Lyng’s side were home and hosed and registered scores from Mikey Butler, a second of the match from O’Loughlin’s Jordan Molloy and one from sub Billy Drennan. There was still time for a fourth goal in the game, and it would be a second major for the travelling side. Eoin Cody stood over a free, fancied a goal and struck his effort past Ryan Elliott just ahead of the final whistle. Final score, Antrim 2-12, Kilkenny 2-30.

Stephen Donnelly makes a fine diving catch as hes tackled by Niall O Connor

Kilkenny scorers: E Cody 1-13 (19f), M Keoghan 1-2, S Donnelly 0-3, C Kenny 0-2, J Molloy 0-2, P Deegan 0-1, J Donnelly 0-1, F Mackessy 0-1 (1f), H Shine 0-1, B Ryan 0-1, T Walsh

0-1, M Butler 0-1, B Drennan 0-1 Antrim scorers: J McNaughton 1-9 (0-9f), K Molloy 1-1, C Bohill 0-1, N Elliott 0-1 KILKENNY: E Murphy; M Butler, H Lawlor, T Walsh; M Carey, R Reid, P Deegan; C Kenny, J Molloy; F Mackessy, J Donnelly, B Ryan; S Donnelly, M Keoghan, E Cody.

Subs: H Shine for F Mackessy (40), L Hogan for S Donnelly (64), B Drennan for J Donnelly (67), K Doyle for M Carey (67), E Lyng for C Kenny (70).

ANTRIM: R Elliott; S Rooney, N O’Connor, P Burke; C Boyd, J Maskey, C Bohill; E Campbell, G Walsh; K Molloy, N Elliott, S Walsh; R McCambridge, J McNaughton, C Johnston.

Subs: C McKeown for C Johnston (HT), S McKay for R McCambridge (52), J McLaughlin for S Walsh (55), E O’Neill for E Campbell (69), A McGarry for G Walsh (69).

REFEREE: S Hynes (Galway)

Cian Kenny and Joe Maskey in a tussle for possession

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Murphy, to level things once more with about 22 minutes of normal time remaining, but little did the home side know that they would add only one more point to their tally before the long whistle.

Eoin Cody added to his growing tally while Graigue Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan and The Village’s Cian Kenny added two in quick succession to push the men in stripes into a 3-point lead. From the restart, Lyng’s charges attacked again, and Mossy Keoghan dispossessed the usual resolute Paddy Burke, before racing clear and rifling past Ryan Elliott in the Antrim goal. This score was major in more senses than its numerical value, as it seemed to break the Ulster sides resolve and belief. The Cats sensed this and

Billy Ryan In control as he gets away from Gerard Walsh

Maximum points after two rounds of games in our quest to be crowned ‘kings of Leinster’ for a sixth consecutive season. The gap at the long whistle against the Saffrons was 18 points, and as Davy alluded to in his press briefings afterwards, it was probably a little harsh on his side. But credit to Derek Lyng and his panel, they weathered the storm and let loose in the second half to claim the victory.

Eoin Cody was in exceptional form and took on the placed ball responsibility with class and ease, finishing his afternoon’s work with a personal tally of 1-13. Just like the round 1 win over Galway, Kilkenny had 13 different scorers on target in Corrigan Park, a good sign for the black and amber. Mossy was lively again, notching 1-2, while Thomastown’s Stephen Donnelly racked up his 0-3 before the short whistle.

Next up for the Cats is a home tie with Offaly, in just over a week’s time.

The Faithful County, like the Saffrons have lost both two fixtures in the group so far and will know that a trip to UPMC Nowlan Park is fraught with more danger. Let’s hope the injuries and niggles clear up and we can keep building provincial momentum.

• Congratulations to the Kilkenny minors who recorded a great win over a tough Galway side last weekend. Jake Mullan was in fine form, hitting 1-8 in their 4-point win in UPMC Nowlan Park.

• An even bigger comhghairdeas to our minor camogs, who were crowned Electric Ireland Minor A All Ireland champions following their 9-point win over Cork. Windgap’s Ona Kennedy hit 1-1 in her sides victory over the Rebels. Plenty of talent on Noreside.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Peter Walsh & Sons Manufacturing Ltd intend to apply for planning permission for construction of a 2173m2 building to include a workshop and ancillary offices at their existing premises in Threecastles, Co. Kilkenny. The development will also include the demolition / removal of 05 No. existing outbuildings, new parking area, signage to the façades, and all associated site & ancillary works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased 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. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, The Health Service Executive intend to apply for planning permission for the following works at our HSE Lacken Offices, Dublin Road, Kilkenny. The site is located within the Lacken Architectural Conservation Area.

Building fabric upgrade works to include: external insulation to the building façade including new plaster finish, replacement of existing windows and external doors, installation of Solar PV panels and associated plant on the building roof.

Permission is also sought for the demolition of existing reception area and construction of a new entrance reception with associated hard and soft landscaping to the front of the building and the reconfiguration of the existing car parking areas, and all associated site & ancillary works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased 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. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, PJ and Liz Aylward intend to apply for planning permission for the change of use from commercial at ground floor level and alterations to existing first floor residential premises to provide a new two storey private residential property at Whitescastle Lower, Main Street, Knocktopher, Co. Kilkenny R95 W9Y3. The works will consist of the demolition of the non-original two storey extension to the rear of the building & the construction of a new two storey extension to the rear. Permission is also sought for the replacement of non-original shopfront, re-roofing of dormer roof to the front of the building, new replacement windows and external doors and all associated ancillary site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased 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. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Dara Connolly and Lorraine Maher, seek permission for the construction of a singe-storey extension to the rear of an existing single-storey dwelling, comprising 2 no. en-suite bedrooms, an extended kitchen area and all associated works at St Mary’s, Waterford Road, Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Amber Petroleum Limited, intend to apply for planning permission for retention of development and permission for development at Rathpatrick, Slieverue Junction, Slieverue, Co. Kilkenny X91 E6CY. The development will consist of the installation of new building mounted signage and all 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.

APS Consulting Engineers, Lackagh, Turloughmore, Co. Galway. www.apsconsulting.ie 091 737 458

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by Kilfera Investments Ltd. for development at ‘The Corner House’, Main Street, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny. The proposed development will consist of amendments to the previously granted planning application register no: 2460086, amendments to consist of (a) the reconfiguration of the ground floor layout to accommodate for 5 no. en-suited short term/holiday let guest bedrooms, to be run in conjunction with public house; (b) alterations to all elevations; (c) all associated works to facilitate the development.

The previously granted application consisted of (a) alterations to the existing shopfront, including a new door; (b) new external signage; (c) internal alterations to the existing public house, including new fire stairs to first-floor level; (d) the subdivision of the existing residential space at first and second-floor level, including internal alterations, to accommodate two apartments; (e) the construction of a new raised deck to the rear of development to accommodate private amenity space at first-floor level; (f) alterations to the existing first-floor rear extension to include the raising of the roof level to accommodate access to private amenity space; (g) alterations to all elevations; and (h) all associated works to facilitate the development.

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

Planning permission is sought by Donal and Ciara Brennan to construct a new two storey dwelling house and a detached garage, a new vehicular entrance, provision of a new sewage treatment plant & percolation area and all associated site developments works at Suttonsrath, Jenkinstown, 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.

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny.

Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Philip James Cuddihy intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for a single storey dwelling, vehicular entrance, borewell, foul treatment tank & percolation area and all associated site works at Lismateige, Hugginstown, 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Peter Donohoe and Laura Donohoe Hogan, wish to apply for planning permission for alterations and extensions to our existing dwelling house, namely additional kitchen / dining / living area to rear of dwelling, convert existing bedroom to an office, part of existing kitchen to utility and additional new bedroom, ensuite and wardrobe, including necessary siteworks, at Crainn Arda, Annamult, Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Liam Dalton, wish to apply to above authority for permission for the following at Grange Lower, Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny. (a) Erection of shed for sorting, Storage testing and repair of Appliances (b) Building at (a) will replace storm damaged structure (c) Workshop and parts storage building (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.

Signed: Liam Dalton

FOR ALL YOUR PLANNING NOTICES

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

RICHARD RYAN 30TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Richard Ryan, late of Greenfields, Freshford Road, Kilkenny, whose anniversary occurs at this time.

Always loved and much missed Anne, Fran, Phil, Richard and Martin grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. C.R.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. L.S.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. D.C.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 2nd May 2025

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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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