Kilkenny Observer 06 June 2025

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Friday 6th June 2025

Billy Burke Distinguished Kilkenny hurling career  See page 10

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Our dangerous drivers

Kilkenny among biggest increases in district court convictions Kilkenny, Carlow and Wexford have shown the biggest recorded increases in district court convictions for various motoring offences. Waterford showed a decrease.

The offences recorded and convicted of were driving without insurance, careless driving, dangerous driving, drink driving and driving

while under the influence of drugs.

The increase in convictions for 2024, up from 2023, were: Carlow up 38.3% from 180 to 249 convictions; Kilkenny up 20.9% from 156 to 237; and Wexford 12.4% from 356 to 400 cases. Nenagh in Tipperary rose by 3% from 298 to 307.

Waterford fell 10.8% from 417 cases to 372, while Clonmel dropped 16.4% from 342 to 286 cases.

There has been a rise in motorists found guilty of driving offences across the country to almost 16,000 last year, or around 50 convictions a day.

Despite high-profile campaigns, drink driving and

drug driving cases are only slightly down. But the overall increase in motoring offences is mainly driven by a sharp rise nationwide in drivers caught without insurance.

It follows a new system to help Gardaí identify uninsured drivers, which was rolled out last summer. The system enabled the Motor

Insurers’ Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) to share the insurance details of more than three million drivers with Gardaí on a daily basis.

The convictions for driving without insurance increased by about a fifth in 2024, from 7,961 to 9,752.

The rise is much higher in Dublin, where the numbers

found driving without insurance increased by more than a third, from 2,468 to 3,325.

Galway saw a massive rise of 65% in the numbers driving without insurance, rising from 166 in 2023 to 263 last year.

There was an almost 50% increase in driving without insurance convictions.

Free HRT now available Women in Ireland are now finally able to avail of free hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

The medicine-based treatment will now be available for free when HRT has been deemed clinically appropriate and is prescribed by a healthcare provider.

People without medical cards who wish to avail of free HRT will have to register for a Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) card.

Carlow shooter gun ‘fixation’

Glenmore seeks better road safety Glenmore Parishioners have recently come together to campaign to make the N25 a safer thoroughfare between Glenmore and Luffany Roundabout in Slieverue.

The residents of Glenmore and Slieverue and beyond say they have “had enough of fatal and serious injury accidents” on the 6.2 kms of roadway.

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

A spokesperson said the ultimate goal of our N25 Road Safety Committee was the construction of a separate two-lane lane dual carriageway from Robinstown, Glenmore to Luffany Roundabout, Slieverue encompassing 6.2 kms. which was previously set to commence in 2022 but the project never got off the ground.

“In the intervening period we are seeking the implementation of a number of safety measures on this small stretch of roadway that services Rosslare Europort, Europe itself, south east of Ireland and beyond in order to reduce and mitigate fatal and serious injury traffic accidents,” the spokeperson said.

A number of these recom-

mendations have been sent to Engineers in Kilkenny County Council. Measures such as the removal of sections ditches, graduation of slip roads approaching three dangerous junctions in this 6.2kms of roadway along with installation of Mean Speed Cameras between Glenmore and Luffany Roundabout, Slieverue. street lighting and

traffic calming measures at the Rhu Glen and a reduction of the speed limit on N25 from Robinstown, Glenmore to Luffany Roundabout, Slieverue from 100 kms an hour to 80 kms an hour. A fixed static speed camera is now fully operational on the N25 at Ballnaraha, Glenmore which captures motorists travelling in both directions.

The man who fired shots into the air in a Carlow town shopping centre before taking his own life, has been described previously in court as having a “fascination” with fire arms. The description was made when he appeared last year before court on gun charges and was granted bail.

He had allegedly bought guns on the dark net.

Full story, Page 6

Mullins case A Garda file sent to the DPP) has directed that no prosecution be made in the case of an allegation that a Pakistani worker was brought to Ireland as part of an illegal human trafficking operation to work in the stables of leading horse trainer Tony Mullins.

Mr Mullins has now filed a High Court action against the WRC and the Labour Court.

Full story Page 14

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

News

50 years on: Elizabeth , The Stolen Sister On August 28, 1976, 23-yearold Elizabeth Plunkett [pictured] met friends for a night away in Brittas Bay, Co. Wicklow. When Elizabeth waved goodbye to her mother that afternoon, nobody knew that it would be the last time her family would see her. Later that night, she was abducted and brutally raped and murdered by Ireland’s first serial killers – John Shaw and Geoffrey Evans – who had recently been released from prison.

A month after Elizabeth was attacked her body washed up on a beach in Co. Wexford.

Following a nationwide manhunt, her attackers were both arrested but not before they killed a second Irish woman, 23-year-old Mary Duffy. The two murderers Shaw and Evans received life sentences in prison.

However, in 2022 the Plunkett family learned that Elizabeth never got justice. No one was ever convicted of the murder of Elizabeth Plunkett despite both men confessing to her murder.

Now Elizabeth’s family are breaking the silence that they’ve held for almost 50 years. Through RTÉ’s latest podcast series, Stolen Sister, presented by Roz Purcell, Elizabeth’s siblings – Bernie and Kathleen – are speaking out. This is the first time that any of Elizabeth’s family have

spoken about her death publicly. They’re determined to get justice for her and restore some dignity to Elizabeth’s memory.

Documentary maker Nicoline Greer said: “It’s been an honour to be able to tell Elizabeth’s story and for the Plunkett family to have trusted us to tell it. When Kathleen and Bernie first came to us, I never could have imagined how far this story would take us.

“In the last year, I feel I have come to know Elizabeth and I hope that this series can go some way to restoring some justice and dignity to Elizabeth and the Plunkett family.”

The first episode of RTÉ Podcast Stolen Sister is available now on the RTÉ Radio Player and wherever you listen to your podcasts. Episodes will drop every Friday and will broadcast live on RTÉ Radio 1 at 6.30pm on Friday evenings.

Anyone with information on Elizabeth’s story should contact: documentaries@rte.ie The soundtrack to Stolen Sister was composed by Academy Award winning composer Stephen Warbeck and was recorded by the RTÉ Concert Orchestra. * Listen to the first episode of the podcast series now: https://www. rte.ie/radio/podcasts/ series/42908-stolen-sister/

Deputy McGuinness welcomes funding boost for school ICT and minor works from minister McEntee

BY JOHN MCGUINNESS - TD

Leas Cheann Comhairle, Deputy John McGuinness, is delighted to announce that Minister Helen McEntee has allocated funding to schools for ICT and minor works. Emphasizing the importance of digital advancement, this support will help ensure that students remain at the cutting edge of education and learning throughout their school journey.

Minor works funding is essential to properly maintain our schools, ensuring they remain safe, functional, and conducive to learning environments.

ICT FUNDING Kilkenny Schools - Primary €435,794.88 Kilkenny Schools - Post Primary €303,010.24 Carlow Schools - Primary €296,716.21 Carlow Schools - Post Primary €227,522.24 MINOR WORKS FUNDING Kilkenny - Primary schools €0.6m Carlow - Primary schools €0.4 m Minister for Education and Youth Helen McEntee said:

“I am delighted to announce that €65 million will be invested in our schools, both to help them with maintenance and improvements, as well as helping schools to embed ICT into their teaching, learning and assessments.

“With the world around us changing rapidly, it is vital that schools can instil students with the skills they need to reach their full potential in our modern society. This ICT funding will empower schools to harness the opportunities that technology presents, and to support children and young people to become competent, critically engaged learners.

“Furthermore, minor works payments are vital in supporting our primary and special schools. I am pleased to announce €30 million in funding that will allow these school communities to address issues at local level and support their operation for the upcoming school year.

“Each school is different, so individual schools are best placed to decide how best to use this funding to address their own maintenance needs. This lead-in period ahead of the new school year will give schools time to consider their plans and priorities as to how to best use this funding for their own needs.

Maintaining school buildings is crucial for ensuring health and safety, creating a welcoming learning environment, and safeguarding the substantial public investment in school infrastructure.

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News

Carlow shooter was ‘fixated on big’ firearms

Evan Fitzgerald and accomplices on bail a year on possession The man who fired shots into the air in a Carlow town shopping centre, before taking his own life, has been described previously in court as having a“fascination” with fire arms.

The description was made when he appeared last year before court on gun charges and was granted bail.

He had allegedly bought guns on the dark net, including a G3 Heckler & Klock machine gun and a Remington mManchine handgun.

Gardaí have said that the shooting incident in Carlow

town which left one man dead and a child with minor injuries, It was “a terrifying experience for every person that was present”.

At a press conference, Gardaí said it had received multiple reports of shots fired in the Fairgreen Shopping Centre in the town and responded at the scene, where they were met with a large number of people running from the premises.

An unarmed uniformed unit arrived, where they observed the suspect - a white Irish man in his 20s - exiting the

shopping centre. The suspect then discharged a shotgun into the air.

Another plain-clothed armed garda unit responded with their official firearms and identified themselves as armed Gardaí.

The suspect then discharged his firearm again, self-inflicting a fatal wound.

He has been named locally as Evan Fitzgerald from Portrushen Upper near Kiltegan, Co, Wicklow.

No Garda shots were fired during the incident.

The man who has died was

described as having a fascination with guns when he was granted bail for firearm offences last year.

Gardaí told a court he had apparently obtained guns for recreational use and not with criminal intent. He was granted bail on strict conditions.

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman from the Eastern Region said Gardaí now understand that the man had walked through the shopping centre and had discharged the firearm into the air on a number of occasions.

She said nobody was injured by the shots discharged by the suspect.

A young girl in the shopping centre with her parents sustained a minor leg injury when she fell while running from the scene.

Gardaí responded to the scene on Sunday evening, June 1, to see a large number of people running from the shopping centre.

Meanwhile, Carlow County Council said it is supporting the HSE in the provision of psycho-social supports for people affected by the shoot-

ing incident. An incident room has been established at Carlow Garda Station, with a senior investigating officer appointed to lead the investigation.

A family liaison officer is providing support to the deceased’s family, Gardaí said.

HSE staff will be available to talk to anyone affected from 1pm to 5pm today at County Buildings on Athy Road in Carlow town, the council said.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he is “deeply shocked and saddened” by the shoot-

EPA report ‘another worrying wake-up call, says Funchion Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion, has called on the Irish Government to ramp up investment in offshore wind energy following a worrying report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA report says Ireland is not likely to meet even half of the legally binding target.

Commenting on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2024 report, MEP Funchion said: “This latest EPA report is

another worrying wake-up call. It is becoming clearer and clearer that we need to get moving a lot faster in tackling our reliance on fossil fuels and transitioning to electric alternatives if we are to meet our targets,” Ms Funchion said.

“It is worrying that the Government seems to be completely ignoring this problem.

Instead, they are implementing measures such as the carbon tax that only serve to hurt those reliant on cars

without punishing the big offenders, like data centres. “ The Government ws also being far too slow to harness the massive amount of natural resources we had in offshore wind energy.

“It is way past the time to be pushing forward on this.

We in Ireland like to think of ourselves as a progressive and ahead of the curve, but in tackling climate change, the unfortunate reality is that we are far behind our peers.

“Without urgent action, we

will miss our targets and we will be left with a massive bill for that. The government simply cannot rely on the EU moving the goalposts on climate targets,” the MEP said “Ireland has the opportunity to become an energy independent country and even a net exporter, but it will take serious and targeted public investment in our infrastructure, particularly the electricity grid, and a level of political will that is lacking in the current Government.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Kneecap: a shot in the dark in the face of truth Kneecap have ruffled the feathers of Britain’s law and order makers who are charging the rap trio’s Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh with a terrorism offence after they unearthed a video of him waving an Hezbollah flag at a London gig.

Liam, who performs under the name Mo Chara, is to appear at a court in Westminster on June 18.

Benjamin Netanyahu has more than ruffled the feathers of European leaders. In a post on X the Israeli Prime Minister said Hamas wanted to “destroy the Jewish state” and “annihilate” the Jewish people. “I could never understand how this simple truth evades the leaders of France, Britain, Canada and others,” Netanyahu said. “I say [to them] when mass murderers, rapists, baby killers and kidnappers thank you, you’re on the wrong side of justice.”

The leaders condemned the Israeli Government’s “egregious” actions in Gaza,

warning that the allies would take “concrete actions” unless Netanyahu changed course.

The Kneecap ‘scenario’ goes way beyond and above a day in a magistrate’s court in London. The terrorism charge is arguably an assault on artistic freedom and the abysmal application of law in a context aimed at the ruination of a rap group delivering a message in a creative context that may indeed offend some, but is emphatically not a threat to the British state nor public safety.

(Hezbollah is a proscribed terrorist organisation in the UK. It supports the people of Palestine through acts of terror. Based in Lebanon it has essentially been dismantled recently by Israeli indiscriminate air attacks).

From the days of Pete Seeger’s We Shall Overcome and Dylan’s Masters Of War to Barry McGuire’s Eve Of Destruction, there have always been those who condemn

wrong, by means of their art. When the Sex Pistols proclaimed God Save The Queen/The Fascist Regime – just a couple of decades after the war against Nazi Germany – some people were, indeed, angered, as was the punk band’s intention. Nobody was criminalised.

When Sinéad O’Connor ripped up a photo of Pope John Paul II on America’s Saturday Night Live to protest against clerical child sex abuse, no incitement-tohatred charges were levied.

Some people were offended, but it was not a crime to offend. It is still not.

Many would seem to agree.

Kneecap the other day sold out a surprise gig in London in just 90 seconds, with 2,000 still on a waiting list – just hours after Ó hAnnaidh was charged.

The 27-year-old is a self-proclaimed anti-colonial rapper from west Belfast, coming to manhood in an age where

authoritarian intolerance is on the rise.

No one in their right mind supports the abhorrent actions of Hezbollah or Hamas. Violence is never the answer to achieve political aims. It only lengthened the division on this island through its armed campaign

“No one in their right mind supports the abhorrent actions of Hezbollah or Hamas...

of murder and violence we timidly or tweely termed The Troubles. (Cue, the Wolfe Tones’ ‘Up The Ra’).

Much more efficient and ruthless than either Hamas or Hezbollah in its use of violence is the Israeli State. For one murder by Hamas, it kills a score of Palestinians. Yet, it is not an offence to fly the Israeli flag.

The horror of the slaughter of hundreds of Palestinians by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on a daily basis for the last 18 months has dulled our senses, as we turn over the newspaper page or the TV channel. Seemingly, rendered numb by the 52,000 Palestinians slain to date in Gaza, the majority of them women and children, world leaders have taken no action, bar issuing totally ineffective condemnations, which leaves them open to Netanyahu’s cries of “anti-semitic”.

Their failure to act has given the rightwing leader licence

to do whatever he wants and he has declared he wants to rid Gaza of its rapidly declining 2.3 million population.

Leaders have turned their backs on their moral responsibility and the inaction seems like complicity, what with Netanyahu’s declared aim to “go in and finish the job”.

As Ian Kilroy, a lecturer in journalism at Technological University Dublin, says: “Israel is supported by the establishment. It is offered public platforms to distort the truth and justify its mass killing. When the rules are changed to criminalise even symbolic protest, it threatens to destroy the freedoms we have cherished and long enjoyed. We need to stand with Kneecap.”

Meanwhile, children are starving to death in Gaza and the West Bank. And the world stands idly by, incapable of standing up to the tyrants.

Who dares speak...?

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Hurling

Billy Burke enjoyed a distinguished hurling career

BY LIAM BURKE

Billy Burke first rose to prominence with the Kilkenny senior hurlers when he was asked to play in a tournament game against Clare in Ennis in early 1934. Following his display, he soon became a Kilkenny regular until he retired after Kilkenny’s defeat to Tipperary in the 1945 All-Ireland final. Billy who was born in Dunmore, just North of Kilkenny city on April 14th 1912 (the night that the Titanic went down) learned his hurling as a youngster with his brothers and neighbours in and around the local village.

However, following Billy's displays with Kilkenny CBS he soon came to the notice of the James Stephens club, who quickly asked him to join their ranks. He then helped the Village to win the 1929 Minor County Hurling final which was not played until the winter of 1930 during a blizzard. And a few months previously, Billy had played at right corner back on the Kilkenny minor team that was defeated by Tipperary in the All-Ireland final. Eventually, 1930 proved to be a very successful one for the Premier county as they emerged victorious in the three AllIreland finals minor, junior, and senior.

During the next couple of years Billy Burke's hurling career progressed, and following the tournament game against Clare in Ennis in early 1934, he soon became a Kilkenny regular. I remember him telling me that he was just finishing work in Kilkenny when he received the call up.

He added that they had a great time in Ennis where they were wined and dined following the game. successful thirties The 1930s proved to be very successful for Kilkenny and with two senior All-Irelands as well as a National League title secured by early 1934, prospects were high, and Billy Burke was all part of it.

However, that year brought little success mainly because Kilkenny went on a six week holiday trip by boat to the US, which probably hindered the preparation and training schedule for the championship.

Then 1935 turned out to be very different. Following a difficult campaign in Leinster, Kilkenny then had an easy victory against Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final only to come up against old rivals Limerick in the All-Ireland final. Kilkenny had defeated Limerick in the 1933 AllIreland final and the National League Final of 1932-33 so a great game was expected.

outfield towards the end of the game, and Billy Burke took over in goal. What a bizarre situation.

Kilkenny won the Leinster final in 1943 but were rather unexpectedly beaten by Antrim in the All-Ireland semi-final in Corrigan park. Then on rolled 1944 and another disaster when Wexford beat Kilkenny in New Ross for the first time on the field of play since 1901. Billy often remarked that those four years were just thrown away.

Kilkenny recovered well in 1945, with a clean sweep of Leinster and they then defeated a good Galway team by a single point in the All-Ireland semi-final.

Billy Burke was recalled for the All-Ireland final 1939 CHAMPIONS Back: Peter Blanchfield, Paddy Phelan, Paddy Grace, Paddy Larkin, Terry Leahy, Jimmy Walsh (captain), Billy Burke, Jimmy Kelly. against Tipperary, Middle: Mick Dalton (Trainer), Jimmy O’Connell, Jack Gargan, Seanie O’Brien, Jimmy Phelan, Bobby Hincks, Mick Oaks (Trainer). but the Premier Front: Mattie Power Jr (Mascot), Jim Langton, Jack Mulcahy County came out on top coloured as Kilkenny as the dye did not ran from play as the paper well as hats that they were were very expected commonly to. Billy Billy Burke of Dunmore worn at the Burke's played in one minor and five time. The inter-county senior All-Ireland hurling Kilkenny fans career finals. Billy won a senior were coloured ended with hurling medal in black and that Tipperary 1939 amber of course, defeat. and the Corkonians were red. It was also the Many games day that World War two broke I remember Billy Burke very Leinster Team 1940: The Leinster Railway cup team of 1940 who were defeated by Munster in the final on St out. well as he was my uncle and Patrick’s day on a scoreline of Munster 4-9 to Leinster 5-4. Billy Burke is pictured third from right in the back Kilkenny contested another we travelled with my father row. Billy was also selected for the final in the following year, which Leinster won, but he had to cry off All-Ireland final in 1940 and to many GAA games. We this time Limerick were the rarely missed games involving opponents and they came Kilkenny, and we attended out on top. Billy played in numerous Railway Cup his usual position at centre Finals as well in Croke Park half back and he got on on St Patrick's day, when the reasonably well during attendance was often more the first half on Limerick's than 50,000. We were in Croke greatest hurler Mick Mackey.

Park in 1962 when Des Foley However, Mackey moved of Dublin won two Railway to the middle of the field Cup Medals on the same following the interval and day. Dennis Heaslip came on then Limerick fared better. It as a substitute and scored a was often said to Billy that he vital goal to help Des win his should have moved after him, second medal. but he said that it would not Billy often said that he would have worked out as he never have loved to have won a played midfield. senior County Championship The 1930 Kilkenny minor hurling team who were defeated by Tipperary in the All-Ireland final (4-1 to medal. And he nearly did. He Disastrous years 2-1). Billy Burke who played at right corner back is pictured in the back row on the right hand side. Mick was playing with Tullaroan The next four years proved Loughman, a Kilkenny mentor, is also pictured on the right side in the front row when they were defeated to be a disaster for Kilkenny by a single point in the 1936 hurling for different reasons.

County final by old rivals Billy did not make the 1937. This final was played new young players from The War had a big effect on Mooncoin, and Billy also starting fifteen for that in Killarney of all places as the successful 1935 minor the GAA and life in Ireland played at centre half back 1935 All-Ireland, but he the Cusack stand was being All-Ireland winning team in general. I often heard my in the 1941 County final remembered it as being a constructed. Kilkenny once including Jack Mulcahy, father and Billy saying that when Eire Og were beaten great Kilkenny victory by a again failed to beat Tipperary, Jim Langton, Paddy Grace, the old car at home was up on by another single point by single point following a very but it is recorded that Billy Sean O'Brien, Terry Leahy, blocks in a shed, for four years Carrickshock. wet Sunday. He said that he had a fine game. Afterwards Bobby Brannigan, and Bobby as there was no petrol. The So it can be said that Billy was delighted for the great it was reckoned that the great Hinks, they were a force to be few supporters that did travel Burke enjoyed a distinguished Lory Meagher of Tullaroan Kilkenny team of the early reckoned with. to GAA games had to rely on hurling career with Kilkenny who captained Kilkenny on thirties was past its best, and the few buses and trains that at both Minor, Senior and that particular day at the age some rebuilding was required.

Outstanding were available.

Interprovincial level with of 36 years of age.

Kilkenny failed against Cork provided the opposition Kilkenny were not allowed Leinster, and at club level Dublin in the Leinster final on a day of a tremendous to play any hurling in 1941 with O' Loughlin’s juniors Got his medal of 1938, but they returned as thunder and lightning storm because of the Foot and and the seniors of Eire Og Billy finally got his chance eager as ever the following when scores were very Mouth disease in cattle and Tullaroan. I will always to play in a senior final year, 1939, to reach the difficult to come by. A late which was very prevalent in remember my father James the following year, 1936, All-Ireland final. This year Jimmy Kelly point secured Kilkenny at that time. 1942 and Billy with pride for when he entered the fray turned out to be Billy's most victory for Kilkenny and it is was another terrible year for helping me to appreciate and as a substitute, but on this successful in the Kilkenny recorded that the half back Kilkenny hurling which was at love our wonderful game of occasion Limerick emerged jersey when he won his only line of Bobby Hinks, Billy a very low ebb and they lost to hurling. Billy passed to his victorious. In all, Billy played Senior All-Ireland medal.

Burke, and Paddy Phelan a poor Dublin team. The great eternal reward on January in five All-Ireland senior Kilkenny won again by a were outstanding. Following Paddy Phelan who had been 23rd 1995 aged 82 years. May finals, his second being single point, and with a the All-Ireland, the faces of playing in goal was moved he Rest in Peace. the following year again in rebuild which included many both sets of supporters were

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Getting to the airport can be the worst part of a trip The holiday season is set to begin and you know that familiar feeling; you have decided on the sunshine trip secured your flight, booked accommodation and any extra treats …. And then comes that sinking feeling. How are you going to get to Dublin Airport?

It may boil down to a choice between using public transport in which case getting there is probably going to take longer than your flight time between catching the bus or the train and then possibly catching other transport from Dublin city centre. Or you might drive and park and then you have to factor in a hefty parking charge and allow plenty of time for a shuttle to ferry you from parking spot in a long term car park or one of the park and ride spots to the terminal.

You may be lucky and

have a friend or family where you can arrange to park and then take a taxi from there. While cabs can save stress and time, so they certainly won’t save you money. A 45km trip taxi from home to airport sometimes costs me more than a bargain flight at an eye-watering €100plus where fares here are almost twice their London counterparts. Why? Blame high insurance and licence costs apparently, but not the driver.

The Air Coach, which used to be a life saver, although it only ran once an hour and took a circuitous route, have dropped the service from my area.

That’s when leaving but what about arriving? On Saturday May 24 Dublin Airport had a record breaking 127,000 passengers through its terminals. While the good news is that things

apparently went reasonably smoothly inside the terminal buildings what about the chaos outside?

New visitors are confronted with fact that, amazingly for a city which is the fifth biggest connectivity hub in Europe, we still don’t have a convenient rail link to the city centre. Nor is there any hope of one in the foreseeable future.Mooted as long ago as 2001 the promised Metro hasn’t even been started yet and is unlikely to become a reality until 2035. That’s if Trump’s tariff wars don’t put paid to the State affording the ever-escalating cost caused by failure to engage in forward planning.

Alternatively a spur line could be run from the existing Dart route to the airport which is something Iarnrod Eireann have suggested or even from main rail lines line….. some chance.

New arrivals can of course go in search of a bus, but which bus? More than 1,000 buses come and go daily at the airport with everything from the Express service

“Good deal to shape a visitor’s impression of a country...

linking to the main city stations to the excellent city link service to destinations like Kilkenny, Galway or Cork. But finding the right bus can be confusing and there may be a long, sometimes wet, wait in a queue for an empty shuttle to your parking spot when things are busy.The same applies for taxis although there is shelter for at least part of the queue. Negative experiences with taxi drivers and unclear pick of points are among traveller complaints according to Trip Advisor.

Picking up an arrival at Dublin airport? Fetching a friend or relative is not for the faint-hearted as the short term car parks may be full at peak travel times.

Friends have been known to park in the car park of a nearby hotel and dash to Arrivals hopefully in time to meet and greet. Thankfully car hire prices have come

down from the post–Covid high, but there are gripes about unexpected additional charges.

Experiences on arrival can do a good deal to shape a visitor’s impression of a country. More could be done to make onward travel from the airport pleasant.

Investment in infrastructure outside the terminal wouldn’t go amiss, with better signage, improved shuttle services, even a covered bus station. And how about a complimentary service to the city centre to compensate for the lack of a Metro?

On a couple of my recent holidays short scenic rail journeys from the airport to the cities of Bordeaux and Trieste for instance, were part of the pleasure of the whole trip.

I can’t say the same of the transport experience from Dublin Airport.

Incognito an effective natural remedy for insect bites CLAIR WHITTY We all dread this time of the year when we are prone to getting bitten by all sorts of insects. This can include mosquitoes, tiks, horseflies, or fleas. These insects bite to feed on your blood. Sounds horrible! The bite triggers an immune response, which leads to inflammation and itching.

Not only are they a nuisance but they cause discomfort with itching and swelling and look unsightly too. Avoiding bites in the first place would be the perfect solution. Thankfully there are natural remedies that you can use without having to resort to harsh chemicals.

For example, vitamin B1, garlic, and Incognito insect repellent are great examples of ways you can help protect your skin from getting bitten.

B1, also known as thiamin, is often recommended as a natural insect repellent.

When taken as a supplement B1 can make your skin less

attractive to biting insects.

Studies suggest that B1 creates an odour that repels insects like mosquitoes, making it a great natural alternative to chemical repellents.

The sulphur compounds in garlic, especially allicin, are believed to create a smell that repels mosquitoes and other insects. You could simply eat more raw garlic in the weeks before and during your holiday but there are

odourless garlic supplements available that you might find easier to do.

If you prefer a natural ready to go insect repellent, Incognito insect repellent is an award winning, highly effective solution that keeps bugs at bay without harmful chemicals. It is non-toxic and eco-friendly. Made with essential oils, it provides protection against mosquitoes and other biting insects without the use of DEET. If you do end up getting bitten despite all your efforts to protect yourself, take a look at Incognito’s Zap Ease Instant Bite Relief. It is a simple gadget that you use when bitten. It reduces itching and helps to reduce the urge to scratch. I don’t go anywhere without these two products. I do not want to be bitten!

Other things can also help.

Aloe Vera gel can soothe the itch and reduce inflammation and is also very cooling.

Tea Tree Oil is known for its antibacterial properties so can help prevent an infection. You could apply ice to help reduce swelling.

I do hope you manage to enjoy the summer bite free.

Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre | Phone: 056 7764538 | Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

News

Mullins files action as human trafficking charge unfounded

A Garda file went to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), following an investigation last year, has directed that no prosecution be made in the case of an allegation that a Pakistani worker was brought to Ireland as part of an illegal human trafficking operation to work in the stables of leading horse trainer Tony Mullins.

Mr Mullins has now filed a High Court action against the WRC and the Labour Court.

The investigation arose from a joint Garda and Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) search of Mr Mullins’ Wateree Stud in Gowran, Co Kilkenny in August 2021.

A spokesman for Mr Mullins told the Sunday Independent that he was “interviewed by An Garda Síochána in relation to a complaint made against him of alleged people trafficking.

He fully co-operated with the investigation and denied the allegation fully. An Garda Síochána subsequently advised him that the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that there be no prosecution”.

A WRC hearing into complaints of labour exploitation by worker Yasir Ali resulted in an €86,000 award being made in his favour after Mr Mullins was found in breach of eight parts of employment law.

Mr Mullins was found to have breached minimum wage law by underpaying

He fully cooperated with the investigation and denied the allegation fully....

Mr Ali and was also found to have breached minimum weekly rest periods. Mr Ali was found to have been required to work 13 out of 14 days.

The Labour Court found Mr Mullins’ appeal was lodged outside the statutory 42-day time limit. That his submission that his appeal was delayed due to him having bronchial pneumonia in March and April 2023 did not constitute “exceptional circumstances” for allowing the appeal outside the time limit.

Mr Mullins has recently filed a High Court action against the WRC and the Labour Court.

A Garda spokesman said: “Following receipt of a complaint made to An Garda Síochána of alleged labour exploitation, members attached to the Human Trafficking Investigation and

Co-Ordination Unit within the Garda National Protective Services Bureau, and the WRC, conducted a search of a commercial premises in the south-east region in August 2021.

“The allegation of labour exploitation was dealt with by the WRC and is therefore not appropriate for An Garda Síochána to comment on.

“While related to the initial complaint received

by Gardaí, the Human Trafficking Investigation and CoOrdination Unit within the Garda National Protective Services Bureau separately investigated alleged human trafficking offences.

“A file was prepared and sent to the DPP, who directed that no prosecution be made.”

Neither Mr Mullins or Mr Ali, who spoke to the WRC through an interpreter,

were named in the original WRC ruling due to the then ongoing Garda investigation. The parties were only named in the Labour Court appeal decision published last month.

Mr Ali gave evidence that he was paid €350 a week, with €100 paid in cash and the rest by cheque. He was given accommodation, but was not given any holidays in over two years working at the stables. The WRC calculated that he worked an average of 56 hours a week for over two years before he was unfairly dismissed after the WRC and Garda inspection.

The Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) supported Mr Ali in his case. It said it was disappointed to hear another appeal was to be lodged that would further delay Mr Ali receiving the redress awarded to him.

“Yasir was awarded over €86,000 by the WRC in March 2023 for multiple breaches of his employment rights,” the MRCI said. “The appeal of this award by the employer has dragged on for over two years.”

MRCI said it wants the Government to bring in stronger sanctions for those found to be exploiting migrant workers. It has noticed a rise in the number of migrants seeking support for alleged labour exploitation, which has coincided with the rapid increase in the number of general employment permits being issued.

In 2020, 6,959 general employment permits were issued. That rose to 19,477 last year.

“The minister urgently needs to introduce stronger penalties and consequences against employers who exploit in this way, otherwise this type of exploitive treatment will inevitably continue unabated,” the MRCI said.

“MRCI is continuing to see an increase in the number of people facing severe labour exploitation coming to us for assistance, especially those on general employment permits.

“It is difficult for workers on permits to move employment, which makes it very hard for them to stand up for their rights. Unscrupulous employers take advantage of this.

“A commitment has been

made in the new programme for government to examine ways for permit holders to move jobs more easily for their own protection and we look forward to the minister advancing this without delay.”

MRCI said the number of migrants presenting with experiences of “severe labour exploitation” and who are suspected of being trafficked for exploitation has increased since 2022.

In that year, MRCI dealt with 15 cases of suspected severe labour exploitation and one case where a person was suspected of being trafficked for exploitation. MRCI said it supported 40 migrants who presented as victims of severe labour exploitation last year, with nine of those suspected as being trafficked.

MRCI said in cases of trafficking and exploitation it had seen cases where workers were required to pay between €2,000 to €40,000 to middle-men or their employers to secure their employment permits, which is in breach of the Employment Permits Act. It said 94% of the labour exploitation victims it dealt with had involved workers paying some form of illegal recruitment fee.

It said this was particularly noticeable in the home-care sector since employment permits were allowed for that type of work in January 2023.

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News

Civic reception for George O’ Hara Following the May monthly meeting of Kilkenny County Council, Cathaoirleach, Cllr Michael McCarthy, hosted a Civic Reception for George O’Hara, originally from St. Francis Terrace in Kilkenny City who has retired after a glittering career as a pilot with Ryanair.

The Cathaoirleach welcomed the extended O’Hara family, friends and guests to the Council Chamber.

“It’s an honour for me as the First Citizen of our county to present this scroll to George O’Hara today in recognition of his out-

standing career in aviation,” said Mr McCarthy. Cllr McCarthy commented that Mr O’Hara’s zest for flying began at Kilkenny Airfield and said that the rest is history.

Concluding his speech, the Cathaoirleach said “In those four decades you have flown to

destinations worldwide and have been a marvellous ambassador for Kilkenny. On behalf of myself and my wife Patti, who was your near neighbour in St. Francis Terrace, may I wish you well now and whatever the future holds for you.”

Mr O’Hara thanked the Chairman and members of the Council for the reception. “I always have lovely memories of family and neighbours from St Francis Terrace and the people of Kilkenny, and this reception holds a special place in my heart,” said George.

Back row (L-R): Tim Butler (Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council), Mary Mulholland, (Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council), Cllr Joe Sheridan, John O’Hara, Aisling O’Hara, Maeve O’Hara, Emer O’Hara, Cllr Pat Dunphy, Cllr John Coonan, Patrica McCarthy, Pauline O’Brien, and Cllr Tomás Breathnach.

Front row (L-R): Lar Power (CE of Kilkenny County Council), Cllr John Brennan, Cllr Jenny Catt Slattery, Cllr Michael McCarthy, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Captain George O’Hara, Christine O’Hara, and Cllr Seán O’hArgáin

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Us and climate change.... we’re at a crossroads The Ireland’s Climate Change Assessment (ICCA) Synthesis Report, completed on research done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2023, delivers a stark warning about climate change’s impact on Ireland.

It urges rapid action to curb emissions and adapt to a warming world, but its assumptions and solutions invite scrutiny. As the country grapples with these challenges, the report’s findings and differing perspectives reveal a complex path forward.

The ICCA confirms Ireland’s climate is changing.

Average temperatures have risen 1°C since the early 20th century, with 2022 the hottest year on record.

This is felt through heavier rainfall and storms threatening agriculture and water quality. Sea levels in nearby Waterford, Cork and Dublin are rising faster than the global average hinting at

future risks for most coastal areas.

The 2018 heatwave and Storm Emma exposed vulnerabilities in farming, transport and water systems highlighting what the report calls an “adaptation deficit”.

Looking ahead, the ICCA outlines “divergent futures”.

Swift global emission cuts could limit Ireland’s warming to 0.8°C by 2100 preserving our current climate. Delayed action risks a 2.77°C rise, intensifying

floods, droughts, and coastal erosion. Even for Kilkenny, this means heightened flood risks and pressure on water resources vital for farmers and households. The report warns of inevitable sea level rise endangering infrastructure in “coastal cities and soft sediment shorelines.”

Ireland’s high per capita emissions, second in the EU, are driven by agriculture a cornerstone of our economy.

Unlike other sectors, farming emissions have not declined

since 2001. The 2021 Climate Action Act targets 51% emissions cut by 2030 and climate neutrality by 2050, but Ireland is off track having used 47% of its first carbon budget in two years.

The ICCA pushes for advances like methane-reducing feed additives and “unprecedented afforestation” which could create local jobs but challenge farmers’ livelihoods.

Adaptation is lagging with fragmented plans for sectors like tourism and the built environment.

The report calls for “floodproofing infrastructure,” community resilience and nature-based solutions like wetland restoration to protect historic sites and biodiversity which contributes €2.6 billion annually to Ireland’s economy.

Transformative change, rethinking governance and embracing renewables could foster green jobs and equity with” public engagement via

citizens’ assemblies ensuring a fair transition.”

However dissenting views questions the ICCA’s narrative. Natural climate variability like solar activity or ocean currents may play a larger role than acknowledged with historical shifts like the Medieval Warm Period suggesting natural fluctuations in our climate.

According to some critics the report’s projections, like reports completed in other countries, rely on uncertain models potentially exaggerating warming and sea level rise. Factors like isostatic rebound (the geological process where land rises after the removal of the weight of ice sheets, a phenomenon that continues to shape the Earth’s surface today) could mitigate coastal risks, yet catastrophic scenarios dominate.

The economic costs of netzero policies are steep. Reducing livestock or enforcing afforestation could devastate

agriculture in Ireland, while renewable energy transitions, like offshore wind may raise energy prices without guaranteed climate benefits.

Adaptation, like flood defences, crop diversification may be more practical than emission cuts given Ireland’s tiny 0.1% share of global emissions. The ICCA’s reliance on IPCC “consensus risks groupthink” sidelining local priorities and its topdown approach may alienate farmers and businesses.

As a country we stand at a crossroads.

The ICCA’s call for urgent action offers a vision of resilience and opportunity.

Prioritising practical adaptation and economic stability over speculative mandates could safeguard our prosperity. Community-driven solutions, “balancing tradition with innovation” will shape a sustainable future for our county. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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News

World famous Colorado choir for St Mary’s Cathedral

Continuing the series of fund-raising concerts at St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny in aid of the restoration fund The Colorado Cantata Choir will perform at St Mary’s on Friday 13thJune at 7.30pm sharp. The Choir is comprised of singers from two nearby communities in the Denver area: Arvada and Greeley. The singers hail from the Arvada United Methodist Church (directed

by Tim Kennedy), and the Greeley First Congrega-

tionalist Church (directed

by Nicholas Gilmore). Tim and Nicholas are long-time friends who have realized the dream of merging their ensembles into one touring choir. Dan Nebel is the organist and accompanist.

The Cantata Choir of Arvada United Methodist Church in Arvada, Colorado was formed in 2011 and prepares a Christmas Cantata and Easter Cantata each year which incorporates pieces of choir with orchestra,

handbells, and sometimes Children’s Choir. In addition to performing at Arvada United Methodist Church, the choir has been invited to perform on the Concert Series of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver, Colorado. They have also been invited to perform with the Arvada Chorale for a presentation of the Brahms Requiem and Loveland Opera for a performance of Amahl and the Night Visitors

by Gian Carlo Menotti. The

choir’s repertoire includes the works of Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Faure, Brahms as well as more contemporary composers including Mark A. Miller, Dan Forrest, Kyle Pederson, and John Rutter among many others. The choir also presents concerts with works from the genres of AfricanAmerican Spirituals, Gospel, Jazz, and Bluegrass. In 2024, the Cantata Choir presented the Colorado premiere of Taylor Scott Davis’ Magnifi-

cat. Other recent large works performed include Michael John Trotta’s The Seven Last Words of Christ and Heather Sorenson’s Requiem.

Timothy Kennedy is a Choral Conductor, Stage Director, Music Director, Performer, Playwright and Teaching Artist. He has served as the Director of Music and Worship Arts for Arvada United Methodist Church for thirteen years. As a Music Director, Kennedy has conducted ensembles and musicals at Loveland Opera, Pensacola Opera, Evergreen Chorale, Ovation West, Equinox Theater, Louisiana State University, and University of West Florida. As a solo performer, he has been seen on the stages of the Graz Music Festival, Linz Choral Festival, Colorado Symphony, Amarillo Symphony, High Point University, Louisiana State University, Shreveport Summer Music Festival, New Opera Festival di Roma, Pensacola Opera, Natchez Opera, Arvada Chorale, and Northwest Florida Symphony. As a Teaching Artist, he has been a presenter and a teacher-in-residence at Pennsylvania State University, Opera America, the Dallas Public School System, Loveland Opera, Pensacola Opera, Mobile Opera, and the National Performing Arts Conference.

Nicholas Gilmore is an active conductor living in Colorado, USA. He is also an

active composer, arranger, and vocal coach. Gilmore has led many opera companies as the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor including Heartland Opera Theatre in Missouri, Ozark Family Opera in Arkansas, and the Halifax Summer Opera Festival in Nova Scotia. Performances of L’elisir d’amore for Pacific Opera Project in Los Angeles were called “fiercely conducted”

by LA’s Splash Magazines, and Opera Today wrote, “Gilmore’s light, airy but propulsive reading of the score captured both its comedy and its underlying sentiment.” He has conducted works for Symphony Orchestra in the USA and on Tour in Europe, including many of his own arrangements and was the featured conductor for both the Wichita and Northern Colorado Open Space New Music Festivals.

He has taught at Missouri Southern State University, Crowder College, and The University of Northern Colorado, and currently serves as the Director of Music at First Congregational Church in Greeley, CO. Completing the programme of music will be violin soloist Robert Hirko from Hungary and the Suspiro Male Voice Choir from Kilkenny under the baton of Sean O’Neill and accompanist Joy Bibby.

Admission is €10 at the door.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

News Science & Wellbeing Broadcaster Mary Kennedy is urging women aged over 65 to make bone health a top priority this summer.

Her appeal comes following the re-launch of the ‘She Doesn’t Deserve A Break’ campaign, which encourages women over 65 to make time to prioritise their bone health and to break the silence around osteoporosis by talking to their GP and visiting www. irishosteoporosis.ie for more information about osteoporosis.

It’s time for everyone to support the women in our lives by sparking up those vital conversations about bone health with family, friends and in our communities.

Bone loss accelerates with age and around 75% of fractures due to osteoporosis happen in people aged 65 and over. Women are also more likely to develop osteoporosis than men partly due to a drop in oestrogen during the menopause.

Osteoporosis is a “silent disease” that often goes undiagnosed until a break occurs.

With osteoporosis-related hip fractures in Ireland expected to rise by nearly 60% over the next decade, from 32,000 to 51,000 annually by 2034. It is estimated that there are approximately 300,000 people in Ireland living with osteoporosis.

Commenting on the campaign, Mary Kennedy, broadcaster and longtime campaign ambassador, said: “The whole purpose of the She Doesn’t Deserve a Break campaign is to alert people to the possibility of prevention. I would hate to lose my independence, even for a short space of time, due to a fall or a fracture. Being bone health aware makes good sense so that as we age, we can enjoy life fully.

“Women aged over 65 should make time for their bone health, be empowered, and inform themselves more about osteoporosis, especially the risk factors for it. They can do this by visiting irishosteoporosis.ie, then they should follow up by having a conversation with their GP about their bone health.

“The bottom line is, it is never

Women Don’t Deserve A Break, says Mary Kennedy

too early or too late to take measures to improve bone health. And that’s good news!”

Orla Walsh, renowned dietitian and campaign ambassador, highlights the importance of early action in osteoporosis prevention. She explains that “small, consistent changes in diet and lifestyle can make a significant difference” .

Orla outlines her essential tips to help women protect their bones: • Diet: A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D6 and pro-

tein is crucial for maintaining strong bones. Including more dairy products, dark green vegetables, and fortified foods can make a big difference. A change in diet alone is not recommended to treat bone loss.

Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns regarding bone health & osteoporosis.

• Lifestyle Choices: Moderation in alcohol and caffeine intake is vital, as excess intake can weaken bones. Smoking is not recommended.

• Make the time: Women

over 65 should make the time to speak to their GP about their bone health and the risk factors of osteoporosis and to get a DXA scan if needed to assess their bone density.

Pharmacist and campaign ambassador Jess Redden, alongside her mum Linda Redden in support of the campaign, is calling on daughters, sons, nieces, nephews, husbands, and friends to start the conversation about bone health and osteoporosis and advises on the best steps we

can be taking to stay healthy.

“Osteoporosis affects real women, real families, and we can help prevent the consequences of it, such as broken bones, by taking action now.

It is vital that we, the people in women’s lives who are over 65, encourage conversation around their bone health – calling on daughters, sons, nieces, husbands and friends to support women in their lives over 65.

“Encouraging them to take control of their bone health by

speaking to their GP or visiting www.irishosteoporosis.ie,” she says.

Make time to have meaningful conversations and break the silence around osteoporosis.

If you are a woman over 65 visit your GP to discuss your bone health and to schedule a DXA scan. This simple, lowdose X-ray measures bone density and strength.

Visit www.irishosteoporosis. ie for more information.

Fitness and weight: and keeping a healthy balance If you approach weight loss with a short-term attitude, you may not make it anywhere except on the yo-yo diet train. Without a longterm approach to weight loss, you may lose 10 or more pounds in two weeks and then suffer a rebound when you discover that regime wasn’t working for you, In reality, for most people, a well-balanced diet that includes all food groups and even some treats works best in the long run.

Part of successful, sustainable weight loss — losing the weight and keeping it oo for good — is understanding that fad diets, excessive

exercise and “detoxes” don’t usually work. Despite what the wellness industry might have you believe, there are no quick fixes, miracle cures or magic pills when it comes to weight loss.

Losing weight requires dedication to a plan that supports long-term healthy habits.

The general recommendation for weight loss is a rate of one to two pounds a week, although initial weight loss might surpass that for people who are very overweight and then slow down to the suggested one to two pounds per week.

An all-or-nothing mindset

can keep you in a perpetual cycle of lose-gain-lose, not to mention shame and guilt around food.

This all-or-nothing concept applies to fitness too: If you’ve been doing the most effective workouts to get in shape in the least amount of time left and right but don’t feel fitter or stronger, you might be doing too much.

Toning it down could, counterintuitively, be the answer to improving your fitness (and playing the long game).

A supportive community, in real life or online, can keep you motivated to lose weight and stay fit.

Supportive friends, family

members and significant others are critical to successful weight loss.

If you currently feel you lack a support system, try having open conversations with your friends, family and partner about it.

You can make it clear that they don’t have to change their eating habits if they don’t want to but that your health means a lot to you, and you’d appreciate it if they didn’t mock or downplay your hard work.

If a support system isn’t working out, turn to online communities that promote both health and body positivity.

If you’re at all attuned to the wellness industry, you’ll know this saying: “Abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym.”

Even if your goals don’t include a shredded stomach, the adage is still relevant. You just can’t out-exercise a poor diet.

Exercise should be part of your overall approach to weight loss because it’s proven to aid weight loss (not to mention its long list of other health benefits), but it’s difficult to lose weight from exercise alone.

Many people overestimate the number of calories they can burn from their work-

outs. It’s typically a lot less than you think.

A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins and some whole grains will serve you best in terms of sustainable weight loss and health. Combined with a consistent exercise routine, you’ll experience sustained weight loss and weight maintenance once you reach your goal weight.

Nutrition and exercise are only two components of a healthy life that can lead to weight loss. While important, too strong of a focus on nutrition and exercise can cause you to overlook other factors that are just as important.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Travel & Leisure

By Bella Bucchiotti -------------------------------The waterfalls in Iceland are some of the most spectacular in the world and should definitely be on your bucket list.

From the powerful and awe-inspiring Gullfoss to the stunningly beautiful Seljalandsfoss, each waterfall has its own unique charm and beauty. The natural surroundings, including the lush greenery and volcanic landscapes, make the waterfalls in Iceland even more spectacular and otherworldly.

All of these waterfalls are really easy to get to. For most of them it is a short walk to these waterfalls in Iceland. As for the best time to visit Iceland for waterfall viewing, spring and early summer are best so that you have more daylight hours and a good flow of water.

Seljalandsfoss This waterfall is right off the side of the road, and it is one of the first ones you will see, as it is about two hours from Reykjavik. Although there is a long list of the best sthings to do in Reykjavik to keep you busy, a day trip to Seljalandsfoss is worth it.

What makes Seljalandsfoss unique is that visitors can actually walk behind the waterfall for a truly immersive experience.

The waterfall stands an impressive 60 metres tall and is surrounded by picturesque scenery, making it a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers.

Since it is close to Reykjavik, it was the busiest of the waterfalls we visited.

Get there early to avoid the crowds of tourists.

Svartifoss This epic waterfall is surrounded by dark hexagonal basalt columns

The awesome waterfalls of Iceland

(which the internet told me).

I just thought they were cool rocks! These rocks definitely make for a unique look surrounding this waterfall.

The first shot at Svartifoss is taken from the first waterfall you see on the walk up.

You aren’t really supposed to sit on the edge here, so please be careful if you do. I was holding on very tight!

You really can’t miss stopping by Svartifoss waterfall. This really is one you can’t miss!

Godafoss Godafoss is one of the most famous of the Skjálfandafljót River waterfalls in Iceland and it is pretty breathtaking.

Definitely one you can’t miss if you visit.

We were lucky to visit Aldeyjarfoss on a beautiful day. Joel and I drove here and we couldn’t believe our eyes at how amazing this place was.

You have to drive on an F Road (which some cars aren’t allowed to go on) but we had no troubles.

The image is shot at the bottom of the waterfall. It is really easy to get to the bottom and contrary to what you might think it is not a hot spring… it is a cold pool lol!!!

Dettifoss Dettifoss is a huge waterfall…like biggest waterfall we saw on the whole trip. It is also so pretty! We were there for sunrise and it was amazing to watch the sunrise over the waterfall.

Kirkjufellsfoss Kirkjufellsfoss is the next waterfall on our list that we stopped at. Sadly it was so cloudy and foggy that you could not see the mountain in the background….which would have made the photos even better. However, it was still really pretty.

I believe you see this one on A Game of Thrones.

Iceland is also known for its stunning waterfalls, and visitors can witness some of the most magnificent falls in the world. The

sheer size and power of these waterfalls are truly awe-inspiring and offer an unforgettable sightseeing experience.

While many have the Blue Lagoon, Iceland on their bucket list, I argue that the waterfalls should be on your list. Witnessing the sheer power and majesty of these falls is a humbling and unforgettable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. @Syndicated

Och aye, the Scottish fishing village of Ullapool If you’re seeking dramatic Scotland’s Highlands scenery and welcoming places, you may want to consider lesserknown regions, like Wester Ross on the northwest coast.

One such place was named among the “most beautiful villages in the UK” by Condé Nast Traveller back in 2022: Ullapool.

The Scottish fishing village of Ullapool lies on Loch Broom and serves as the gateway to the Outer Hebrides thanks to its ferry terminal.

Located at the northern end of the A835, it’s about 60 miles northwest of Inverness or 211 miles north of Edinburgh.

There’s no denying that Ullapool is a pretty place, with its cottages lining the quayside and the centre full of independent shops and fine

restaurants.

The village is the hub for exploration and adventure in the surrounding region of Wester Ross. It can be described as untamed, with towering mountains, gorgeous lakes and sea inlets, waterfalls, sandy beaches with clear water, woodlands, and open moorlands. This coastal

area is also a hotspot for seeing marine life, including whales and dolphins.

While the village is postcard-worthy, the scenery around it is nothing short of spectacular. Put the two together and you have an amazing portal into Scotland’s northern coast. Within less than an hour’s drive

from Ullapool, you’ll find several soft sandy beaches with turquoise waters like Achmelvich Bay, Achnahaird Beach, and Badentarbat Bay. Another famous landmark nearby is The Bones Cave.

A hike from the highway takes you to four caves set high in limestone cliffs with spectacular views.

There are also a few waterfall walks in the area.

There are two nature reserves within 15 miles of Ullapool: Corrieshalloch Gorge and Knockan Crag.

The gorge is a mile-long canyon dug by the River Droma, where you can walk across a suspension bridge for outstanding views of a few cascades.

Knockan Crag is a spot with incredible landscapes

and fascinating geology.

Scientists have studied the rock formations here since the early 20th century.

There’s lots to explore, but don’t miss hanging around Ulapool proper a bit, too. With its wrap-around loch and mountain views, the village is a tidy grid of streets lined with restaurants, shops, and pubs.

Fresh seafood and charming cafes are easy to find.

For a taste of the best, check out a Michelin-listed restaurant, The Dipping Lugger.

As a Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award winner with a 4.9-star rating, the modern British food and vistas right on the harbourfront can’t be missed.

There’s no major airport near Ullapool, so getting

there will require a road trip. It’s best to have a car in these parts anyway, because transport links are few and far between. Speaking of road trips, the village lies along the North Coast 500, a tour route that loops the Scottish coastline.

That also makes it a popular area for folks with caravans or campervans.

If you are flying in, the nearest airports with domestic U.K. service are Inverness on the mainland or Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis, site of the Callanish Standing Stones.

Whether your accommodations roll along with you or you seek out quaint inns, you won’t have trouble finding places to stay in the Ullapool area.

Enoy...

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Forget three, five is a magic number This week’s column is all about numbers. And starting with home, according to the 2022 Census, here is a list of the population of Kilkenny’s towns and villages.

Kilkenny City: 27,184. Ballyhale: 184. Ballyragget: 1,116.

Bennetsbridge: 664. Callan: 2,678. Castlecomer: 1,496.

Clogh: 298. Fiddown: 410.

Freshford: 593. Goresbridge: 317. Gowran: 847. GraigueTinnahinch: 1,506. Inistioge: 315. Johnstown: 450. Kells: 291. Kilmacow: 671. Kilmogany: 256. Knocktopher: 174.

Mooneenroe: 739. Mooncoin: 1,184. Mullinavat: 210. Paulstown: 919. Piltown: 1275.

Slieverue: 448. Stoneyford: 185. Thomastown: 2,305. Urlingford: 1,196.

In 1700 New York with a population of 3,900 was a smaller city than Kilkenny! ****** The population of our Earth is 8.2 billion – 8,191,988,453

to be precise Following are the five most populated countries in the world: One, India: 1,463,865,525 Two, China: 416,096,094 (the most popular name in China is Wang; there are over 93 million Wangs in China!)

Three, U.S.: 347,275,867 Four, Indonesia: 285,721,236 Five, Pakistan: 255,219,554.

Russia has a population of 143,997,393.

Following are some European populations: Germany: 84, 075,075 U.K.: 69,551,332 France: 66,747,319 Italy: 59,146,260 Spain: 47,889,958.

And then there’s Ireland: 5,308,039 million. ****** Until 1857 it was legal for British husbands to sell their wives. The going rate was £3,000 about £460,000 in today’s money (I think).

Not bad ,though I personally believe that a good wife is

priceless. If you’re married here are some numbers you dare not forget.

We’re talking wedding anniversaries: 1st(Paper), 10th. (Tin), 15th (Crystal), 20th (China), 25th (Silver), 30th(Pearl), 35th (Coral), 40th (Ruby), 45th (Sapphire), 50th (Gold), 55th (Emerald), 60th (Diamond).

According to the HSE report for 2022 the life expectancy for women in Ireland is 84.4 years and 80.8 for men.

One in 10 European babies is conceived in an IKea bed! ****** In 2022 there were 187,000 uninsured drivers on Ireland’s roads, four times the EU average. In 2024 the number was 101,881. The dramatic fall coincided with the introduction of the Irish Motor Insurance Data Base in the same year. Insurers feed information into it which assists Gardaí to

check motorists roadside. A total of 85,119 is a big drop but there’s a long way to go.

72,000 is the current backlog of Irish learner drivers waiting to do their test. ****** Rory McIlroy took home $4.2 million for winning the Masters in Augusta. Shane Lowry netted $67,000 for finishing in 42nd place, tied with three others while J.J. Spaun pocketed $52,920 for finishing 50th! Wow! That’s a helluva lot of money for coming 50th. According to the Sunday Times Rich List 2025, Rory McIlroy is worth a massive £260 million!

Eveken is the number of Major championships won

by Irish golfers since Padraig Harrington’s breakthrough British Open victory in 2007. ****** Albert Einstein died in 1955 in Princeton Hospital,

New Jersey. His body was cremated the next day but unbeknown to his family, the pathologist, Dr Thomas Stoltz Harvey, had removed Einstein’s brain. The brain was sliced into 240 pieces and 12 sets of microscope slides.

Some went to scientific and medical institutions but he kept 170 pieces for himself preserved in jars. He eventually handed them over to the University Medical Centre of Princeton 33 years later in 1988!

Donald Trump’s election campaign. In March Trump turned the White House South Lawn into a temporary Tesla car showroom, displaying 5 EVs. Tesla’s profits plummeted by 71%, a backlash over Musk’s involvement with Trump.The number of people travelling from Ireland to the US dropped by 27% in March. $2.2 billion in funds were frozen for Harvard by the White House after the university refused to change its practices.

****** There are more than 13,000 satellites in orbit around Earth, about 10,000 are functioning, that leaves around 3000 pieces of space junk as the possibility of space junk crashes rapidly increases.

****** Think of a number. Add the next higher number to it.

Add 9 and divide by 2, then subtract the original number.

The answer will always be 5.

Magic or what! Try it at your next dinner party. Nah. Try it in the pub preferably after everyone has had five pints.

And finally, – what’s this: MMXXV? It’s 2025 in Roman numerals.

****** Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, spent at least $250 million to support

New book identifies those qualified for 1914 star This is a body of research undertaken over fours years and a further year in developing, editing and designing and is a unique effort to determine for the first time the identity of all the Officers, NCOs, and men of the 2nd battalion Royal Irish Regiment who qualified for the 1914 Star (the Mons Star).

The scope of the research was to determine the county of origin, age, date of death, next of kin, of all the soldiers, using information that has only become available when records have been digitised in recent years. The main source document that was used to identify a soldier who was awarded the 1914 Star was the Medal Index Card (MIC) and cascading from it included documents like Medal Rolls, Gallantry Awards, Silver war badge rolls etc.

The principle goal of the publication is to publish an Order of Battle in the form of a Nominal roll containing a soldier’s personal information. There will also be a description of what information different documents may provide.

There are over 1928 soldiers included and more than 130,500 documents have been reviewed to glean all the information presented.

This publication will enhance accessibility to descendants and researchers who may have an interest in World War One and is well worth purchasing (€25 - postage & package ranges from Ireland €10/ UK €14 / USA €24 & Aus/NZ €29).

The launch takes place at The Home Rule Club Kilkenny on Thursday June 12th at 7:30pm.

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Opinion

Mind and body in harmony

By Paul Bolger

Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny | www.nanophysio.ie Your immune system is like a protective shield for the body. A functioning immune system is vital for health.

A healthy immune system fights of infections, kills cancer cells, keeps our blood vessels healthy and ensures the healing process runs smoothly and effectively.

People spend millions every year in Ireland on immune system supplements. There is a supplement out there that costs nothing, it nourishes our immune system, and it has amazing healthy sideeffects. I am talking about friendship and connection.

Increased Inflammation with Social Isolation Inflammation is a normal process in the body. It helps us to fight off infections and heal wounds. But too much inflammation over a long period of time is not a good thing. Chronic or systemic inflammation is linked to issues like heart disease, arthritis, mental health problems and dementia.

Social isolation and loneliness are associated with increased inflammation in the body. Leading

Friendships aid immune health Social connection is known to improve immune system function researchers in this area, including Naomi Eisenberger who is based in California, USA, believe that loneliness can indeed cause inflammation. She explains how, as social creatures, being isolated from others

would have increased the likelihood that our ancestors would have been injured or wounded. The body responds to this by pre-emptively raising its inflammatory response – getting a head start in fighting off a potential

Childcare crisis in Kilkenny: 8 in 10 children under 6 without access, warns DrennanTD

By Natasha Newsome Drennan TD

Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan has responded to new findings revealing that as many as 80% of children under six in Kilkenny do not have access to Early Learning and Care (ELC) services. The data, sourced from the Kilkenny County Childcare Committee and based on Central Statistics Office figures, points to a major gap in service provision—existing ELC services currently meet only 11% to 29% of the demand in the local community.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said: ‘’As a mother of four boys I know from firsthand the struggles facing parents looking for Childcare, but I am stunned to see just how much worse the situation has gotten for parents. ‘’Castlecomer, a town with over 2000 children under the age of 6 years old, has only 492 fulltime ELC places for

levels – perhaps because they signal to the body that we may become social castaways and more at risk of injury or wounding.

this age group. That leaves 75% of children with no access to a place. ‘’Kilkenny City has 2500 children under 6 years old and only has 725 full time ELC places, which leaves 70% of these children with no access. ‘’Callan-Thomastown has around 2,200 children under the age of 6 years old with only 440 full time places for that age group, this leaves 80% of children with no fulltime placement. ‘’The Piltown area is by far the worst affected, with no full-time placement for nearly 90% of children under 6 years. ‘’A survey carried out by Kilkenny County Childcare Committee showed that across Kilkenny there is currently zero vacancies across the different providers. ‘’This is a crisis that should have alarm bells sounding.

We have a growing population, parents eager to find a place in childcare

to support their child’s development and allow the parents to return to work.

This is creating a difficult position for so many families across the county. ‘’Years of underinvestment in childcare across Kilkenny has brought this crisis to a tipping point. ‘’We need to see a longterm plan to sufficiently increase the number of places in Early Learning and Care facilities as the current number of places are falling completely short.

infection.

Interestingly, things like feeling judged by others, competitive social interactions and social rejection have all been shown in experiments to increase inflammation

Improved Immunity with Social Connection Socially connected people have a greater ability to fight off viral infections.

Their immune system is more prepared to detect, remember and fight off these invaders. Common colds, flus and COVID-19 are all viral infections we are all too familiar with.

Experiments show that socially connected people are less likely to get sick when a cold virus is spayed into their nose compared to lonely people.

More social contact with others increases the chances of contact with a virus (such as being in the same room as someone with the flu). Dr Naomi Eisenberger suggests that the body “knows” this and prepares for such things by making sure the immune system is prepared.

This isn’t just about the amount of people we meet – it’s very much to do with

how we feel about our level of connection. Research shows that greater feelings of connection and lower levels of loneliness, regardless of the number of social contacts a person has, are linked to greater immunity to viral infections.

This improved anti-viral response is a good thing for health and longevity, and it is associated with lower levels of systemic inflammation. So, it’s a win-win for our health.

Immune System Supplement A healthy, functioning immune system helps us to feel good – boosting mental health, sociability and energy levels. It also helps to reduce the risk of many long-term health conditions.

If you want a healthy immune system with all the great benefits it brings, know that social connection is a key ingredient for this. It’s not just about the amount of people you know, it’s about how connected you feel.

Social connection is one of the main ‘supplements’ that I recommend for caring for our amazing immune systems.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 121

"None of us knows what tomorrow might bring"

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Advertisement to refuse, reduce, reuse, recycle, and rethink plastics use. It will also reinforce the global commitment made in 2022 to end plastic pollution through a global plastic pollution treaty.

From pollution to solution: ending the plastic era #BeatPlasticPollution theme for World Environment Day 2025 Plastic pollution permeates every corner of the planet—even in our bodies in the form of microplastics. World Environment Day 2025 calls for collective action to tackle plastic pollution.

By drawing inspiration from nature and showcasing realworld solutions, the campaign will encourage individuals, organisations, industries, and governments to adopt sustainable practices that drive systemic change. This year’s World

Environment Day comes exactly two months before countries meet again to continue negotiating a global treaty to end plastic pollution. World Environment Day in 2025 will focus on ending plastic pollution, with the Republic of Korea hosting the global celebrations.

For decades, plastic pollution has seeped into every corner of the world, leaching into the water we drink, into the food we eat, and our bodies. While plastic pollution

is a major concern, it is also one of the most fixable of today’s environmental challenges, with some obvious solutions at hand.

World Environment Day joins the United Nations Environment Programme-led (UNEP) #BeatPlasticPollution this year to mobilise communities worldwide to implement and advocate for solutions. World Environment Day will spotlight the growing scientific evidence on the impacts of plastic pollution and drive momentum

About the host country This is the Republic of Korea's second time to host global observations for World Environment Day. It first hosted the Day in 1997 on the theme ‘For Life on Earth’.

Over the past 28 years, the country has made remarkable progress in improving water and air quality, managing chemicals safely, and protecting and restoring ecosystems. Today, building on decades of experience engaging businesses through extended producer responsibility, the Republic of Korea is among the countries leading efforts to tackle plastic waste. The country’s full life-cycle plastic strategy aims to address every stage in the life cycle of plastics, from production and design to consumption, reuse and recycling. The strategy brings together the government, businesses and consumers to reshape how plastics are used and disposed of. By curbing waste at its source, expanding recycling efforts, and accelerating the transition to a circular economy, the Republic of Korea is taking decisive action to reduce plastic pollution and build a more sustainable future.

Jeju Province in the Republic of Korea was chosen as the host location for World Environment Day. In 2022, the province declared

a vision to become free of plastic pollution by 2040. Jeju is the only province in the country where household waste must be disposed of at designated recycling support centers. The system requires waste separation from the source, driving higher recycling rates and ensuring more waste is repurposed.

Also, Jeju is the first province to introduce a disposable cup deposit system in the Republic of Korea.

About the 2025 theme Plastic pollution exacerbates the deadly impacts of the triple planetary crisis: the crisis of climate change, the crisis of nature, land and biodiversity loss, and the crisis of pollution and waste.

Globally, an estimated 11 million tonnes of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems each year, while microplastics accumulate in the soil from sewage and landfills, due to the use of plastics in agricultural products. The annual social and environmental cost of plastic pollution ranges between US$300 billion and US$600 billion.

This year’s World Environment Day observance comes as countries make progress towards securing a global treaty to end plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. In November 2024, the Republic of Korea hosted the fifth session of negotiations to develop a plastic pollution treaty.

The second part of the session will take place from 5 to 14 August in Geneva, Switzerland.

Join the #BeatPlasticPollution movement—because together we can create a healthier future.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

News

Kilkenny hotel cuts carbon by 107 tonnes in half-million carbon-neutral journey Emissions reduction is equivalent to planting 1,610 trees; enough trees to cover Nowlan Park twice over The South East Energy Agency (SEEA) partnered with the boutique hotel Pembroke Kilkenny to complete a five-year €524,422 energy

upgrade. The upgrade cut carbon by 107 tonnes annually, moving the hotel closer to its goal of becoming carbonneutral.

The partnership saved 477,316 kWh of energy annually, enough to power 130 average Irish homes for a

year. The sustainable measure reduced 107.3 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually, equivalent to planting 1,610 trees, enough to cover two GAA pitches. The improvements resulted in an annual cost savings of € 36,090. The hotel received grants of €157,326,

Grants Advisor with South East Energy Agency (SEEA), Sarah Cummins; Proprietor, Pembroke Kilkenny, John Ryan and Project Delivery Engineer, South East Energy Agency (SEEA), Michael Kinchella Photograph- Dylan Vaughan

managed by the South East Energy Agency.

Powering sustainable energy upgrades The state-of-the-art energy upgrades began in 2019, introducing an air handling unit and redeveloping the kitchen.

The hotel further enhanced efficiency with new windows, smart controls, a building management system, water pump upgrades, solar panels, and innovative electric air curtains for heat retention.

Pembroke Kilkenny, proprietor John Ryan commented, “We've got very low-cost heating because of the efficiency created here.

We switched from gas to induction hobs to put in more efficient appliances. The cleanliness of the kitchen and

the environment is very pleasant. If you were to ask any of the chefs now, they would much prefer induction.”

The sustainable energy upgrade was part of a broader €3 million investment that also saw the addition of a new fourth floor at the award-winning city centre hotel.

“We recently completed a new floor and took the opportunity to install 45 solar panels on the roof. The extra bump from the PV will help us manage our MIC demand and keep below our agreed capacity with ESB networks,” Mr Ryan concluded.

SEEA is Irish lead on ECOBoost, a new Interreg NWE project The South East Energy

Agency is Ireland’s lead agency for a new Interreg North West Europe (NWE) project in Ireland called ECOBoost for Micro and Small Enterprises. The project will provide small businesses with a range of support, from tailored energy audits, a toolkit for energy-saving solutions, technical assistance, training programmes, and business models, all from one centralised platform.

Project Delivery Engineer, South East Energy Agency, Michael Kinchella commended, “Projects like Pembroke Kilkenny show what is possible when ambition and innovation come together.

We commend John Ryan and his team for their leadership and urge others to take similar steps. With guidance from our experienced energy engineers and support available through EU projects, such as ECOBoost, and governmentbacked grants from the SEAI, sustainable energy is both achievable and a wise investment.”

The South East Energy Agency is a not-for-profit organisation working with Irish SMEs, homeowners and communities to deliver energy upgrade projects, from audits and grant applications to project management and delivery. Further information on grants and energy schemes is available via: www.southeastenergy.ie

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Energy & the environment With World Environment Day landing on the 5th of June and all the news about climate change and sustainability, let's explore energy, its impact and how we might reconsider our relationship

with it.

Energy is essential for our survival. We need it as food to exist and as heating to keep warm. It pumps and purifies our water, keeps our hospitals open, helps the farmers

to produce food and moves essential goods from A to B. The rest of our needs are primarily lifestyle requirements or choices. I need energy to run the laptop that I’m using to type this article, to provide

lighting in the room that I’m in and without data centres and the internet, I would not be able to email or share this article online.

In Ireland in 2023 we consumed approximately 37,000

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

units of energy (Kilowatt Hours or Kwhrs) per person.

In India it was 7000, whilst in Somalia it was a mere 217 units. As Nancy O Brien - from an older and wiser generation - would say ‘wilful waste, woeful want’.

Simultaneously the majority of our energy came from fossil fuels, now proven to be a major contributor to global warming due to the release of the embodied carbon in the fuel. So, the problem and the solution is twofold; reduce the waste and use energy from renewable sources. Simple changes in behaviour can reduce our demand. Making our homes or businesses more energy efficient by stopping the heat leaving the building through the walls, windows and doors can make total sense.

Organisations like South East Energy Agency and SEAI provide services and grant aid to assist you.

Once you have tackled and reduced demand you can then consider renewable alternatives to provide the balance of energy. For electricity, solar PV is now economically viable. When combined with battery storage and the ability to get paid for exported power it is now viable to produce 100% of your annual electricity demand, getting paid for excess produced in the summer, importing the balance in winter. There are limitations with grid connection so if you plan to heat your house

with electricity and charge an EV you may have to install a large complicated system, but for the average home, farm or business it is very straightforward. Companies like Glas Energy can advise on this.

On the topic of heating, there are primarily two alternatives, heat pump or biomass/woodfuel. Heat pumps use electricity very efficiently to capture heat from the air (most popular), ground or water. This ‘low grade’ heat is then raised to a higher temperature using the same technology that’s in your fridge, circulated through radiators or underfloor heating.

Woodfuel is another alternative and can contribute either partially, through a stove, or fully through a boiler. The fuel comes in three forms; log-wood (manual feeding) wood pellets (semi/fully automatic) or wood chip (larger heat users).

Lastly, a word on transport. Switching to an electric vehicle not only gives you the option of ‘driving on sunshine’ but is a much more efficient means of getting from A to B. EV’s use about 15 units of energy per km versus about 40-50 for petrol/diesel cars.

Again Glas Energy and its partners can provide information, design, pricing, installation and ongoing maintenance on any of the above. So start by measuring what you use, reduce where possible and then explore alternatives.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Plastic bottles are so last season

BY MARIA DOLLARD

Much has been written about climate action, climate change, climate chaos and the loss of nature and sometimes I think it's all a bit overwhelming for most people. Sometimes I want to just bury my head in the sand and say “I give up”. It’s hard. It’s unfair and it’s sometimes unbelievable.

I have crossed the halfway point of my life so what do I care what happens when I’m gone? That’s the bit that gets me. Am I going to be a ‘good ancestor’? That’s the question I ask myself and it doesn’t matter who we are, we can all make a difference.

I was brought up in a family, typical of most families of my generation.

You had a lot of secondhand and homemade clothes, our family grew vegetables in the garden and bought meat directly from the local farmer.

It was the days before really big corporate influences and before they knew how to create the illusion that we are all somehow inadequate,

lacking in something to make us better, cooler and more attractive. I remember when someone had the brainwave to put tap water into a bottle and tell you that you needed to drink 2 litres of it every day. Marketing genius. You could look so much better and fitter and slimmer with a bottle of

whatever in your hand. A bottle of the right water could elevate your social status.

Today, plastic pollution from these billions and trillions of single use plastic bottles is a major source of emissions as each bottle is made from fossil fuels, fossil fuels are used in their manufacture and that’s only the start. Particles from the plastic leach into the water we consume from these bottles, they end up floating in the ocean and micro plastics are known to be destroying ocean life and ending up in the food chain where we consume them ourselves. A recent study has shown that human brains examined, contained the equivalent of the weight of a plastic spoon. More than half the plastic ever created has been since 2002.

We know enough about the impact of micro plastics on human reproductive health to know it is bad for us.

This is just one issue, the common plastic single use bottle. We can all do something to stop environmental damage. Get a metal water bottle and fill it from the tap or the water refill station at the Parade or Butler Gallery. We can all do something.

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Recruitment

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Recruitment

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Motors

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Motors

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Sweet melon, curry leaf & burrata salad

Prep: 20 mins Cook: 5 mins plus at least 20 mins macerating Serves: 4 Make this salad once and you’ll be making it all summer. Melon, curry leaf and burrata may be an unlikely combo, but it’s sweet, spicy, creamy and aromatic. Gluten-free and vegetarian.

Ingredients • 1 ripe melon or a mixture of honeydew and cantaloupe works well (about 700g in total, prepared weight) • 1 banana shallot finely sliced • 2 burrata balls(125g each) For the dressing • 5 tbsp olive oil • 10 fresh curry leaves • 2 tsp nigella seeds • 1 green chilli deseeded and finely chopped • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar • 2 tsp honey

STEP 1 For the dressing, heat the oil in a small frying pan over a medium heat. Add the curry leaves and sizzle for 1-2 mins until aromatic (be careful as they will splutter).

Add the nigella seeds for the final

30 seconds. Pour the hot oil, curry leaves and seeds into a bowl and leave to cool.

STEP 2 Mix the remaining ingredients for the dressing into the curry leaf oil and

season well.

30 mins at room temperature.

STEP 3 Arrange the melon and shallots on a platter, drizzle with most of the dressing and lightly toss together with your hands. Leave to macerate for 20-

STEP 4 Nestle the burrata into the salad, gently tear each ball open and season with a little flaky sea salt. Spoon over the remaining dressing.

Superhealthy salmon burgers Prep: 20 mins Cook: 10 mins Serves: 4 If you’re after something a bit lighter than potato-packed fishcakes, try these simple salmon burgers with ginger, soy sauce and coriander. Freezable, dairy-free, egg-free and with high in protein.

Ingredients • 4 boneless, skinless salmon fillets about 550g/1lb 4oz in total, cut into chunks • 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste • thumb-size piece fresh root ginger grated • 1 tsp soy sauce • 1 bunch coriander half chopped, half leaves picked • 1 tsp vegetable oil • lemon wedges, to serve For the salad • 2 carrots • half large or 1 small cucumber

• 2 tbsp white wine vinegar • 1 tsp golden caster sugar Method STEP 1 Tip the salmon into a food processor with the paste, ginger, soy and chopped coriander. Pulse until roughly minced. Tip out the mix and shape into 4 burgers. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan, then fry the burgers for 4-5 mins on each side, turning until crisp and cooked through.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, use a swivel peeler to peel strips of carrot and cucumber into a bowl. Toss with the vinegar and sugar until the sugar has dissolved, then toss through the coriander leaves. Divide the salad between 4 plates. Serve with the burgers and rice.

RECIPE TIPS Oily fish makes a heart-healthy

alternative to red meat burgers.

This recipe would also be delicious with tuna steaks.

THAI SALMON SKEWERS

Mix the curry paste, ginger, soy and oil with 1 tsp honey and seasoning. Marinate the salmon chunks in the curry mixture for 10 mins.

Cut 1 red pepper and 1 courgette into chunks, then thread onto skewers with the salmon. Griddle for 8 mins, turning, until the salmon is cooked through.

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Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

worth streaming this week 1. A Widow’s Game

If subtitles aren’t a dealbreaker for you, this 2025 Spanish crime thriller absolutely deserves a spot on your watchlist. Directed by Carlos Sedes (best known Netflix’s “The Asunta Case” series), this chilling film explores the dark side of human nature and how malleable the truth can seem when sinister intentions come into play. Most haunting of all, “A Widow’s Game” is based on a real murder case in Valencia, Spain, from 2017.

When a man is found stabbed seven times officers initially suspect a tragic crime of passion. But the spotlight lands on an unexpected suspect: Maje (Ivana Baquero), the victim’s young widow. On Netflix.

2. The Wild Robot

While The Wild Robot may have lost the Best Animated Feature award to Flow at the 2025 Oscars, it deserved to share the spotlight.

This DreamWorks production is a gem thanks in no small part to Lupita Nyong’o’s touching performance as Roz, a robot stumbling through the highs and lows of parenthood. Visually, it’s a stunner too, with animation that easily rivals the Spider-Verse films in both style and ambition. On Netflix/

A heist thriller with a twist He might be better known for playing Batman but Ben Affleck is at his most compelling when he steps behind the camera and gives us something a little darker.

The Town, a gritty Bostonset crime thriller that Affleck not only directs but also stars in [pictured], has just landed on Netflix.

This isn’t just a heist movie but a surprisingly emotional story about loyalty, regret, and trying (and failing) to escape the life you were born into. And it’s got one of Jeremy Renner’s best performances ever.

The Town arrives alongside a wave of great crime movies, and it holds its

own as a standout in the genre. Whether you missed it when it first came out or just want to experience it again with fresh eyes, now’s the perfect time. Here’s why this intense crime thriller deserves a spot on your Netflix watchlist.

The Town”is set in Boston’s tough Charlestown neighbourhood, where bank robbery runs in the blood of many locals. The story follows Doug MacRay (Ben Affleck), a skilled and smart leader of a close-knit crew of lifelong friends who pull off daring heists.

Doug has always dreamed of leaving his criminal life behind, but his loyalty to his crew, including Jem

(Jeremy Renner), and the pull of his past make it difficult to break free.

After a botched bank robbery, Doug unexpectedly forms a connection with Claire Keesey (Rebecca Hall), the bank manager they took hostage during the heist. As their relationship deepens, Doug finds himself torn between his life of crime and the hope for a fresh start with Claire.

Meanwhile, the FBI, led by the determined agent Adam Frawley (Jon Hamm), intensifies its efforts to bring Doug and his crew down.

You may be expecting a high-octane heist movie packed with non-stop ac-

3. Fear Street: Prom Queen tion and explosive shootouts. After all, it’s a crime thriller set in Boston with Ben Affleck and Jeremy Renner — how could it not be? But what you get is something much more nuanced and surprisingly emotional.

The Town isn’t just about the heists or the tension of evading the law (although that’s still interesting to watch). It’s about the messy fallout that comes after the adrenaline fades and the personal cost of a life lived on the edge.

Instead of glorifying the gunfire and getaways, the movie zeroes in on the characters and their struggles.

The Better Sister another Amazon Prime hit Prime Video has another hit original show on its hands, and it’s already shaping up to be the show to binge this summer. The mystery thriller The Better Sister has just premiered last week and wasted no time shooting straight to the top of the Prime Video top 10 list.

The Better Sister is a riveting family drama with a criminal twist has found an audience now that it’s streaming on Prime Video, with fans calling it the spiritual successor to Gone Girl they didn’t know they needed.

Based on the 2019 novel by best-selling author Alafair Burke, The Better Sister stars Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks as an estranged sibling duo with more baggage than an airport terminal. When one sister’s husband (and the other’s ex) is found murdered, the two must set aside their many, many differences and work together to clear their names and catch the real killer.

With only eight episodes and plenty of “just one more episode” cliffhangers, it’s an easy binge-watch.

On the surface, Chloe (Biel) seems to have it all between her flourishing media career and picture-perfect home with her attorney husband Adam (Corey Stoll), and their teenage son Ethan (Maxwell Acee Donovan).

But beneath that polished exterior lies a deep fracture: a strained relationship with her troubled sister Nicky (Banks), Adam’s ex-wife and Ethan’s biological mother, who has spent years grappling with addiction. After Chloe’s husband is found murdered, the two are forced to reunite,

reopening old wounds and unearthing long-buried secrets.

The tension between the sisters is palpable, with subtle clues suggesting that Chloe may have stepped into the life Nicky once envisioned for herself before her battle with addiction derailed her marriage and endangered Ethan’s safety.

Suspicion for Adam’s murder quickly falls on Nicky, but as the investigation unravels, Chloe begins to realise her sister may be the only person she can trust.

Looking for some ‘80s slasher thrills this weekend? Netflix’s latest in its R.L. Stine-inspired Fear Street series is here to deliver. It might not hit the same highs as its predecessors, but it’s still a stylishly sinister ride packed with big hair and even bigger scares.

We’re back in the cursed town of Shadyside, Wallflower high school student Lori Granger (India Fowler) is stunned when she’s nominated for prom queen. But that spotlight soon proves to be a double-edged sword, especially given the lingering whispers that her mother murdered her father on prom night years ago. On Netflix.

4. The Wheel of Time

This fantasy show adapts Robert Jordan’s popular series of novels.

Rosamund Pyke plays the mystical Moiraine, a member of a powerful organization of women called the Aes Sedai. She’s on the hunt for the reincarnation of the Dragon, a wielder of the One Power who went mad and destroyed much of the world. This reborn hero or heroine could potentially vanquish an evil entity called The Dark One. )n Amazon prime.

5. Forever

Forever, a series will gently set your world on fire. June (Maya Rudolph) and Oscar (Fred Armisen) are a married couple cruising through their suburban life until vastly unexpected turns take them into otherworldly territory. Stick through the slow-burning first episode and you’ll be rewarded with an exceptionally crafted eight-episode series, gently wrapping you in its visually beautiful and meaningful dream. Season 1 there now. On Amazon Prime

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Opinion Careys Butcher Shop in Green Street

Part two

Corpus Christi parade in callan 1920

Board of Guardians debate the evils and benefits of drink

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

In the early 20th century a meeting of the Board of Guardians of Callan Workhouse became heated when a motion was tabled calling on the Board to back a protest against the drinking of imported booze in the county.

Pat Keating vigorously opposed the motion. He was a fanatical teetotaler: a mixture of anger and loud laughter greeted his anti-drink sentiment.

Jack Molloy accused him of "getting hold of the wrong end of the stick altogether".

He reminded the Board that the Kilkenny brewers were up against "that foreign stuff coming in, and any fool would know that if our lads stop making drink, fellows

will still wet their whistles on the foreign brew. Ireland will be finished entirely."

Jim Prout suggested that the whole debate was a waste of time, as nothing they could say or do would change anyone’s drinking habits. "If we had the eloquence of Grattan or O’ Connell, we would still be powerless" he opined.

Tom (T.B.) Cahill favoured the motion in support of the Brewery workers and believed that the Board should give them its unequivocal backing. "There’s nothing to whack the Kilkenny beer, especially at a threshing", he informed his colleagues.

Further support for the workers and for the brewing of beer in Kilkenny came from Mattie Brennan. He declared: "I support home industry, but I can tell ye now I wouldn’t dream of buying that poteen they’re making in certain parts. T’ would kill a bloody horse."

Another Guardian, Danny Roberts, had been quiet up to that point as he had a bad cold. "What I’d like now", he said, coughing and wheezing, "is a hot mug of punch. You can’t beat it. ‘Tis better than all the doctor’s medicine below in Montgomery’s shop."

On this point Pat Keating agreed with him. "Danny", he intoned, "I have no objection at all to you having what you call a drop of the craythur for medicinal purposes. I have allowed for that in my vision of an alcohol-free Ireland."

"Alcohol-free me arse", roared William Neill, "when we get Home Rule in this country we’ll be able to brew all the beer and the poteen we like. If we had Pat’s ban on beer, I could see a day when every thirsty and hardworking man from Cork to Belfast would be letting on to have a cold just to get a drop of the medicine."

"Were that to be the case,

my good man", retorted Pat Keating, "we’d be better off with Home Gruel than Home Rule!"

To prevent a riot breaking out in the boardroom, Pat decided to withdraw his antiThe preserved Masters Block of Callan Workhouse

drink motion, but his words seemed to have had some effect. The motion calling for support of the Brewery Workers was carried by a lesser margin than expected: Nine votes to six.

T.B. Cahill then asked the clerk to make a note of who supported the motion, so that the brewery in Kilkenny could be given the names of its true friends in the Callan Boardroom. "Check that you have the right addresses there man" he nudged the clerk, "I don’t want my share of the goodwill stuff going up to Cahill’s of Graguagh just in case the Kilkenny lads send out any free beer samples."

Jack Molloy came to life again at the mention of free beer. "Japers", he expostulated, "I think we should go into the brewery and collect it there. I’m not the only Molloy in Callan, you know. The stuff could end up anywhere if they send it out."

Pat Keating then re-ignited the anti-drink debate that the others thought had been well and truly put aside, at least

for that day. He asserted: "This question of backing one lot of beer makers over another is nonsense. It’s not a fit topic for us at all. We are only trying to jump over the moon, gentlemen, with all this talk. I am disgusted with the waste of time. And I have to say…this boardroom stinks of drink today."

A Guardian who was imbibing a mug of ale blushed at this remark, but said nothing.

Michael Lynch reminded members that the boardroom also stank of beef and bones, and not only beer, as hunks of meat had been taken into it earlier in the day. He proposed that Davy Tobin be contracted to cleanse the boardroom of the combined whiff of beer, beef, and bones with his high quality sulphur candles. On a show of hands, all agreed with this proposition.

Danny Roberts, still coughing and sneezing, said he was off to get himself a nice mug of punch, adding "and divil the man that’ll stop me drinking it!"

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA GRAVEYARD MASS Cemetery Masses are being held in the following locations, Castlewarren on July 5th at 7.00pm, Clara on 13th July at 4.00pm.

JUNIOR HURLING Clara had a comfortable win over their neighbours Young Irelands of Gowran on Tuesday night of last week in Clara. Despite shooting 25 wides they still eased to a 0-24 to 1-9 win. With much more experience on show than their opponents the Clara men led 0-14 to 1-4 at the interval. They had amassed a total of 17 wides at this stage and one wondered would a seven point lead be enough having played with a strong breeze. The experienced duo in the full forward line of Peter Nolan and Lester Ryan had pilfered 5 points between them, Joe Connolly had hit 3 from the half forward line, but there were scores too for the likes of young guns Davy Barcoe and Luke Lawlor as well as Joe Power, who had to retire injured shortly after his score. James Bergin had also contributed two points to the Clara total.

A big Gowran effort was expected in the second half but it was Clara that shot out of the blocks again with two points each for Lester Ryan and Davy Barcoe. This opened up an eleven point gap and was maintained for the rest of the half. Clara continued to rack up the wides but also kept the scoreboard ticking to an adequate extent to run out deserving winners.

Team - Cian Kelly, Hugh Kelly, Tom Ryan, Daniel Ryan. Zach Lawlor, Luke Lawlor 0-1, Philip Carrigan.

Rory O Keeffe 0-1, Davy Barcoe 0-3. James Bergin 0-4, 0-3f, Joe Connolly 0-4, 0-1f, Joe Power 0-1f. Pádraic Staunton 0-1, Lester Ryan 0-4, Peter Nolan 0-4.

Subs used Alex McDonald, Killian Phelan 0-1.

CLUB LOTTO The Lotto results for 27th May, the numbers drawn were 3, 9, 16. There was no winner. The following received a €30 Lucky Dip , Eileen Curtis, John Drennan, Pat O Neill, Paul Whearty and Sean Bambrick.

COUNTY SCENE Hard luck to Mary O Connell and Rory Glynn who were both on losing Kilkenny teams in a Nowlan Park doubleheader on Saturday. Mary was on the senior camogie side that lost out to Waterford while Rory was on the U20 hurling team that were beaten

by Tipperary in the All Ireland final. On a brighter note Laoise Nolan, Keara Ryan, Katie Ryan and the injured Grace Barcoe were on the Kilkenny U23 squad that had a narrow 0-13 to 1-8 victory over Waterford in the championship. Rachel Whelan missed out due to holidays.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS PEDAL TO THE SEA PRESENTATION Following the success of O’Loughlin Gaels’ Pedal to the Sea fundraiser a very enjoyable Presentation night was held in the Club last weekend. Every participant received a specially commissioned cycle top (with thanks to Colin Rea of www.Rwear. ie) and cheques were presented by the event organiser, Noel Buckley, to Lorna Mc Gee representing LauraLynn and to O’Loughlin Gaels chairman Nigel Leydon. The winner of the signed hurl was Matt Malone and Eanna Reilly received the signed jersey on behalf of his parents, Phil and Nora. The winner of the shopping voucher was Ursula Geoghegan.

TOURNAMENT SUCCESS Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 boys who won the Phelan/Stone tournament organised by the St Patrick’s GAA Club, Ballyragget last weekend. They played five hugely competitive matches against Graigue Ballycallan, Athenry Galway, Mountrath Laois, Killmacud Crokes Dublin and Stradbally Waterford. Everyone is proud of the group for their effort and determination throughout the day. Congratulations to all involved. Well done also to Dylan Mc Gee who was selected as Player of the Tournament.

Also well done to O’Loughlin Gaels Under 8 boys who took part in the Mooncoin hurling blitz on Saturday morning. The boys played games against Mooncoin, Dunnamaggin, St. Lachtains, De La Salle and Tullaroan. Lots of skill and effort on show. This group are improving every week. Well done to all their players and their fantastic coaches.

ALL IRELAND FINAL DISAPPOINTMENT Commiserations from O’Loughlin Gaels to all involved with the Kilkenny Under 20 team and espe-

cially to our own Greg Kelly on their defeat in the All Ireland final to Tipperary in UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday last. Despite the best efforts of all involved they lost out to a Tipperary team which was better on the day. Thanks to all for the efforts and some great displays on the way to the final including the Leinster Success.

The Kilkenny Senior camogie team with which Laura Greene, Laura Murphy and Danielle Quigley were all involved enjoyed no better luck as they lost out to Waterford in the curtain raiser on Saturday.

Thanks also to all the Club members who worked on the day at car parking and programme selling before turning their attention to supporting the team.

BUS TO LEINSTER FINAL Kilkenny play Galway in the Leinster Senior Hurling final in Croke Park on Sunday next 8th June. With seven players from the Club involved hopefully there will be strong support from O’Loughlin’s on the day for our County team. There will be a Bus from O’Loughlin Gaels to the Leinster final. Departing St. John’s Park at 11.30am. Cost €20. To book contact Stephen at 086-1993711.

SUMMER CAMP Dates have been announced for the O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camps with Camp 1 from July 21st to 25th and Camp 2 from July 28th to August 1st.

Summer camp forms will be distributed at camogie and hurling training this week. Deadline for payment and registration is the 20th of June for the ordering of camp jersey. Stephen will be at the club each Thursday evening from 6pm to 7pm for Summer Camp registration and payments. Don’t miss out and get booked in.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated May 25th 2025. The numbers drawn were 11, 23, 24, and 28. The bonus number was 20. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors’ Draw 1. Delores Walshe c/o B Maher. 2.

Breda c/o Ml H. 3. Mary Tyrrell c/o D Tyrrell. 4. P.A. Cleere c/o K Cleere. 5. Maura Nolan c/o E Kinchella.

6. M and M C/o G Buckley. 7. Sally Cleere c/o K Cleere. 8. Andrea Maloney c/o Online. 9. Emma Thompson c/o Online. 10. Cathal Poyntz c/o Online.

Thank you for your continued support COMMUNITY GAMES SUCCESS Congratulations to the St John’s badminton team who put in a fantastic performance in the community games finals in Longford last weekend. They beat a strong Cavan team in the semi finals and were pipped by Clare in the final to take silver medals. Well done to the boys, coaches, parents etc.

This is a great achievement for this first experience of the community games finals. The team was Shay Molloy, Cathal Kelly, Aidan Butler and Cian Delaney.

WALK THE LONGEST DAY FOR TEAC TOM Every day can feel like the longest day for someone

O’Loughlin Gaels Chairman Nigel Leydon receives a cheque on behalf of the club from Pedal to the Sea organiser Noel Buckley.

struggling with their mental health. On 21st June, gather your group, club, or workplace for a 30-minute walk to support Teac Tom. Every €10 donated goes to directly funding Teac Tom’s vital mental health and suicide prevention services. - To get your group involved, email events.teactom@gmail.com.

- Let’s walk for hope. Let’s walk The Longest Day. What teac tom does; Teac Tom, part of the Thomas Hayes Trust, provides immediate, no-wait mental health support and suicide prevention services.

From counselling to a 24-hour phone line, Teac Tom is here when it matters most. - If you or someone you know needs support, call Teac Tom 24/7 on 056 779 6592. - You are never alone.

Visit the Cathedral Café – Coffee with a Cause; Located in the beautiful St. Mary’s Cathedral, the Cathedral Café is a warm, volunteer-run space where every coffee and slice of cake supports Teac Tom’s life-saving work. Open Saturdays from 10am– 4pm and Sundays from 10am–1pm, it’s the perfect spot to relax and give back - All profits go directly to Teac Tom’s mental health services. Drop by next time you’re in Kilkenny City and enjoy a cuppa that truly makes a difference NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD KAY O’SULLIVAN RIP The people of Freshford were saddened last weekend to hear of the passing of local lady Kay O’Sullivan (nee Hogan) late of Creel Street, Freshford after a long illness so bravely borne. Although she had been unwell for some time nevertheless

her death caused widespread sorrow and regret in the area. Kay who was in her 70s was widely known and respected in the village and surrounds. She wasaa gentle, kind and friendly lady, a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and sister. She spent most of her life working in the local corner shop in the village where she made many friends and acquaintances over the decades. Funeral mass took place in St.Lachtains Church, Freshford followed by burial in St.Lachtains Cemetery. She is deeply mourned by her husband Ollie, her son Oliver, her sisters, brother, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended EXAMS Best wishes are extended to all students from the village sitting their Leaving Cert and Junior Cert exams this week in various secondary schools.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm. Ionad Lachtain will hold Cruinniu na nOg on Saturday next June 7th at the Square Freshford from 11am to 1pm for children from 4 to 11 years old. This is a free event and workshop will be run by art therapist Mary Bergin GAA NEWS St.Lachtains U15 boys will compete in the hurling and football national and regional feile finals respectively this month and this will be a historic achievement for the club and everyone is so proud of the boys and their achievement to date.

St.Lachtains Bord na nOg organised a car wash on Monday last at Pairc Lachtain along with fundraising activities so as to give the boys as good an experience as possible and are kindly asking for everyone’s support. Thanks to all those who supported the car wash and all those who donated to

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 Team winners of the Phelan Stone Tournament

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Community & GAA Notes date. The Club have also set up a Go Fund me page to supplement these activities. You can check their social media pages for details on how to donate and they thank all in advance.

St Lachtains UI4 boys defeated The Fenians/St Patricks in their league match.

The Junior F hurlers had to put in a strong finish to beat Lisdowney on a scoreline of 3-10 to 0-15. The result confirms qualification for the league semi final.

The Junior B hurlers travel to Tullogher on Saturday next at 2pm to take on Tullogher/Rosbercon in the league semi final.

Local hurler Cathal Hickey played at wing back on the Kilkenny U20 hurling team who were defeated Tipperary in the All Ireland final on Saturday last at Nowlan Park. Two other local lads Brian Kennedy and Davy Brennan were part of the backroom team.

LOOP WALK Cllr Michael McCarthy has welcomed the latest round of funding for the Loop Walk in Freshford.

The wonderful amenity has been awarded €10K under the Walks Development fund Scheme. Cllr.

McCarthy said that this is a great boost locally and will further enhance the project BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club will host Open Summer Bridge in Threecastles Hall commencing on Monday next 9th June at 7.30pm All bridge players welcome.

TIDY TOWNS Freshford Tidy Towns recently submitted their 2025 competition application. This is quite an undertaking and well done to the volunteers for completing the entry. The Committee would ask all local residents and visitors to the village to support their application by doing your part where you live or visit. They would welcome all painting, cleaning, litter picks, planting of areas and all activities that enhance our beautiful village.

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

CAMP 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 GRAVEYARD MASS The annual graveyard mass will take place in St. Lachtains Cemetery, Freshford on Sunday 22nd June at 11am. (Weather permitting). If the weather doesn’t co-operate Mass will be celebrated in the Parish Church. Please tell your family and friends.

People are urged to clean up their family graves for the occasion THREECASTLES GRAVEYARD With the help of a small grant and within the guidance of the heritage\council, a clean-up of the old graveyard in Threecastles has been organised. The clean-up will take place from 10-11am on Saturdays. If you are interested in helping out please come along and bring you gloves, secateurs, pruners, rake etc.

SPLIT THE POT The winner of Split the pot for past two weeks were: The Long/Looby Grandchildren who won €376 and Bridie Healy from Ballyragget who won €470. The proceeds for the month of May went to St.Lachtain’s Camogie Club and they thank all those who supported them during that time. The draw takes place every Wednesday. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available at Loop café and in all local shops and pubs. Revolut is also available on 08330411011 remember to include your name and address.

SOCCER Freshford Town are finished all games for the season In the schoolboys section the U14 boys were beaten in the cup final recently by a stronger Freebooters side on a final score of 2-0. Well done to all the team and the management on getting to the final.

The club are busy off the field of play planning for the regeneration project which has received permission and a grant 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, 2new sports dug outs to grassed pitch and upgrade of existing boundary walls and fencing drainage and all associated works.

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.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter, so why not support your own local café, You can meet with friends for a chat and cuppa or some lovely homemade food or 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.

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 youth club is members only so if you are interested 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 There is Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla Church on Saturday evening at 7.30pm.

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 BLACK AND AMBER BLUES It proved a disappointing Saturday afternoon in UPMC Nowlan Park for the Kilkenny U-20 hurlers and the Kilkenny senior camogie team as both slumped to unexpected heavy defeats before a sizable attendance. In the 2025 All-Ireland U-20 final Kilkenny were comfortably defeated by neighbours, Tipperary on a scoreline of 3-19 to 1-16 much to the disappointment of the James Stephens contingent of goalkeeper Stephen Manogue, Ed Lauhoff, Ed McDermott, sub netminder Daniel Power and panellist Billy O’ Sullivan. For the Kilkenny camogie team, the 0-17 to 0-10 reverse to Waterford in their 2nd round 2025 All-Ireland senior championship fixture was no less disappointing for the Village girls Niamh Deely, Michelle Teehan and Sophie O’Dwyer.

PADDY MULLEN TOURNEY Family spokesperson Liam Mullen has confirmed that the 31st running of the annual Paddy Mullen Memorial Minor Tournament will take place on Sunday, 29th June in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. Surely the longest running tournament of its kind, the competition provides quality competitive games for minor teams across many counties with ambitions of winning their own country minor title. Along with the host club James Stephens, Ballyboden St. Endas (Dublin), Mungret (Limerick), Blackrock (Cork), Glynn Barntown (Wexford), Carnmore (Galway) and Borrisoleigh (Tipperary) have committed to participate in this year’s tournament. The experienced “men in the middle” who will officiate during the day are John McCormack, Conor Everard, Stephen Delaney and Owen Behan. A great day’s competitive hurling is assured for supporters and hurling enthusiasts.

LEINSTER SCHOOLS CAMOGIE The glory days returned for The Presentation Secondary School in rain drenched Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan as the school’s Junior camogie team took the honours in a competitive Leinster final against the local rivals Loreto Kilkenny. Congratulations to the James Stephens players, Emma Larkin, Daisy Coomey, Jasmine Timmons McEneaney, Molly Dunne, Sorcha Larkin and Abbie Minogue Lee, whose contributions were invaluable in the hard won 3-07 to 1-05 victory. However, for every winner

there has to be a loser and in this case it falls to Loreto Kilkenny, managed by Kilkenny star player, Cian Kenny and whose line up included Village girls Maura Barton, Caoimhe Egan.

U-14 LEAGUES The U-14 “A” team continued their fine run of form during the week with wins over Young Irelands 4-07 to 2-09 with the vital scores coming from Paddy Larkin, Conor Knox and Joe Hanrahan. The young Village lads followed that result with another fine display to account for neighbours Bennettsbridge 4-06 to 1-10 on home ground on Friday evening.

Paddy Larkin and Yehor Ahalakov were the goalscorers to clinch the victory which places the club as joint leaders at the top of the league table.

Meanwhile the Village “B” team just lost out 3-10 to 4-03 in a tight battle with Mooncoin in the Roinn “D” league. Well done to all involved.

EVERGREEN F.C. ABU Congratulations to Evergreen F.C. our sports club near neighbours on the Kells Road who created their own piece of history when winning the Leinster Junior Cup a fortnight ago. While Ethan Phelan had the honour of scoring the winning goal in the final against New Oak Boys (Carlow), clubman Mikey Drennan, has been the club’s leading goal poacher throughout the campaign. Also included on the winning team were former Village under-age hurlers Sam Hickey and Declan McQuillan along with panellists Ben Hickey and Dean Cornally. The team was managed by Gary Maher whose daughter plays camogie with the club. Life-long James Stephens supporter, John Treacy the club’s previous manager was a member of the backroom team. After many near misses over the years, enjoy the long awaited, hard-won success, lads.

HURLER’S CO-OP DRAW With the first draw due to take place in a fortnight’s time club members and supporters are urged to support the annual Kilkenny Co. Board promoted Hurler’s Co-op draw which helps finance the training costs of all Kilkenny teams as they prepare for the championship season. Tickets cost €50 each for the five draws which has three cars on offer as the top prize in three draws. There are a total of 32 cash prizes in each draw. To purchase a ticket, contact any member of the management committee SYMPATHIES Our sympathies are extended to the Drennan family on the death of David (Dave) Drennan who passed away peacefully in his home. The Drennan family have been longstanding supporters of the James Stephens club. Dave’s son Mikey is currently a playing member of the club’s junior team and in 2008 struck the winning goal on the club’s last All-Ireland Feile winning team while his younger brother Adam also lined out in the club colours at under-age level.

Dave will be sadly missed by his wife Lorraine, sons Chris, Richie, Adam, Mikey, Robert and daughters Catherine and Amy and the extended Drennan family. Dave was laid to rest in Foulkstown Cemetery following Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s Church. “Air dheis laimh Dei go raibh a anam dilis”.

DIARY DATES Many St. Patrick’s parish families anxious to remember deceased family members and friends will be interested to note that the annual St. Kieran’s Cemetery Mass will be celebrated on Friday evening 28th June at 7.30pm. The Dunmore and Johnswell Cemetery Masses will take place on Friday 5th July at 7.30pm.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 6, 7, 17, 29. There was no winner. The €40 consolation winners were Breda Manogue, Romina Perrozzi, Des McGrath, Jim Dollard and Orla Neary.

GOWRAN Gowran Park RACING AT GOWRAN Next Race day takes place on Sunday, 15th June, Father’s Day. Lunch and racing €45 per person. Limited places available.

GOWRAN AC It was another busy week for juveniles, as they competed in the Track and Field live hosted by Carlow Athletics in St. Laurence O’Toole, and the Leinsters in Tullamore. Two athletes took part in the 1.2k race walking development event. Robyn Goodwin and Hannah Phelan, both competing in the one race, walked well and achieved PB’s. James Kelsey was also racing under the wet conditions for his 800m but produced a solid 3rd place finish.

Sarah Mulrooney and Abigail Hunt were flying the flag for Gowran at the Leinsters U13 Championships in Tullamore. Both girls ran great in a fast paced 600m to finish 5th and 6th in their heat. Next up for

the girls was the high jump where Abigail placed 11th and Sarah 14th, congratulations girls on a great day of athletics.

5 seniors took part in the annual Triathy, with 4 of the guys Johan Muller, Adrian Cunningham, Paul Flood & Matt Ryan competing in the Olympic race and Marie Deegan making her triathlon debut in the Tri race. Well done and great results for everyone.

YOUNG IRELANDS GAA June Fitness Classes. Limited places are available for Young Ireland’s 4-week fitness programme starting 3rd June. This will be the final series before the summer break. Newcomers welcome !Please complete form on link for registration. https:// forms.gle/8idqSWyMCAeL9TVD7 ST. MARY’S CHURCH GOWRAN St. Mary’s Church Gowran will open every second Thursday of every month from now until 28th August 2025. This church was built in the late thirteenth century as a collegiate church and was served by a college - clerics who lived in a community but did not submit to the rule of a monastery.

The church was patronised by the Butler family and many early family members are commemorated here with elaborate medieval tombs. The impressive ruins were decorated by the Gowran Master whose stone carvings are immortalised in the poetry of Nobel Laureate Séamus Heaney.

The once medieval church was later partly reconstructed in the early 19th century and functioned as a Church of Ireland church until the 1970’s when it was gifted to the State as a National Monument.

Today the restored part of the church preserves a collection of monuments dating from the 5th to the 20th centuries. Don’t miss your chance to explore this incredible thirteenth century church.

BENNETTSBRIDGE CHURCH NEWS Weekday Masses Wednesday morning 10.30am, Friday morning 9,00am.

THANKSGIVING MASS There will be a Thanksgiving Mass this Sunday, 8th June, 10.30am in St Bennett’s Church to mark the Diamond Anniversary of Fr Pat Duggan’s ordination to the priesthood and his 35 years service to Tullaherin Parish. Refreshments afterwards in the Community Centre.

JOHN KILROY RIP Sympathy is extended to the Kilroy family on the death of John Kilroy of Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny and formerly of Green View Terrace, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, on Saturday, 24th May 2025.

Beloved husband of the late Teresa, and loving father of Deirdre, Eleanor, Miriam, Thomas and Lucy. Lovingly remembered by his sons-in-law Cian, Rob, Thomas and Sean. He will be sadly missed by his grandchildren Oscar, Tara, Ruadhan, Amber, Hugh and Grainne, as well as his beloved sisters, Bernie (Sr. Mercy), Philly, and Ursula, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends.

John was predeceased by his sisters, Sr. Maureen and Josie (Sr. Perpetua) and brothers Michael, Paddy, Tommy and Fr. Brendan. He lay in repose at his home in Bennettsbridge on Tuesday, 27th May concluding with Rosary and Vigil Prayers at 7pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Bennett’s Church, Bennettsbridge where members of his family took part in the liturgy. Burial took place in the adjoining churchyard.

ART GROUP It’s all systems go in Art Group circles as the artists continue to create new material for the 2025 exhibition. Tutor, Julie Moorhouse, has been an invaluable asset to the group for many years and her enthusiasm and encouragement means a lot to the group.

GATHERING Gathering Group will be meeting at the usual time in the Community Hall from 11am until 1pm. All welcome to come along for tea, chat, games and exercises.

BEST WISHES EILEEN Best wishes to Eileen Curtis who has retired from the helm of the KCETB and Adult Education sector in Carlow Kilkenny. Eileen was well known in the parish for her commitment and support of many groups over a long number of years. She is wished every happiness in the years ahead. Local groups, including the Art Group are still enjoying the support of the KCETB under the stewardship of Siobhán O’Brien.

LOTTO The Results for 26th May are as follows, there was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbersdrawn were , 9, 10, 17, 25. Consolation Prizeswent to, Margaret

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Community & GAA Notes

East End U12s were crowned U12 KDL Div 1A League Winners

Bennettsbridge U 12s had a good win over Barrow Rangers

Nolan, Hillview, East End Syndicate, Mary Skehan, Woodlawn, Joan Delaney, c/o Ann Tobin, Sue Doyle, The Ring.

EAST END U12s League Winners; East End U12s were crowned U12 KDL Div 1A League Winners at the weekend wrapping up the 24/25 season in style. A solid 2-0 victory over a determined Evergreen side saw the team rise to the occasion in a match full of heart, grit, and great sportsmanship. Goals from David Rohan and Isaac Neary sealed the win, while captain Alowen Grimes pulled off a string of fantastic

saves to keep the dream alive. This incredible group has shown dedication, passion, and teamwork all season long, a true credit to their parents and to the Club.Well done to the team and management.

CAMOGIE Presentation Secondary School played Loreto Secondary School in the Minor A Leinster Final. It was a fiercely contested match in extremely tough conditions. Hard luck to Katie, Mia and Leah who played on the Loreto team. Congratulations to Amy and the Presentation team on the great win. Presentation Kilkenny 3-7 Loreto Kilkenny 1-5

Our under 10 Camogie team took part in the John Pendergast festival of Hurling and Camogie in Thomastown Sunday. It was a great day, lots of skill, teamwork and determination on show. Well done to all involved.

BORD NA NOG Bennettsbridge U12s battled in the rain at the weekend against Barrow rangers, scoring a great win for the boys in tough conditions. Well done boys.

Bennettsbridge 3-5, Barrow rangers 1-5 GAA Hard luck to players,Timmy Kelly, James Hughes

and selector Brian Lannon and the Kilkenny under 20 team who lost out to an impressive Tipperary team in the All-Ireland final in Nowlan park last Saturday.

We wish the very best of luck to David Blanchfield and the Kilkenny senior team that play Galway in the Leinster senior hurling final in Croke park next Sunday.

Signage Campaign; The Pitch signage campaign is progressing well. Monies raised 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 sub-committee members for the terms and details: Alan Flynn, Alan Morrissey, Tommie Hughes, Tim Dooley and Mary Blanchfield. The signs continue to be installed and look very impressive. Thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far.

Football Boys Feile Champions 2025; As our under 15 footballers prepare for their trip to Derry at the end of June to represent Kilkenny in the Feile fundraising has begun to fund the trip. An “I donate” page has been set up and is being well supported so far. Please see the club’s facebook page for details. Donations of any size will be greatly appreciated as the preparations begin for the trip.

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. Early 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 is to take place on June 10th this year. Thanks again for the continued support.

Club Games; The under 14 hurlers lost out to James Stephen’s in the Roinn A league third round on a scoreline of 4-6 to 1 -10, they play Gowran in round 4 next Friday in Bennettsbridge. Our junior E team lost out to Dunamaggin by a late goal in the league.

Please see the Kilkenny Gaa website for upcoming

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 6th June 2025

Community & GAA Notes

Members of the working group who maintain the graveyard at the Lower Street, Kilmacow, including Breda Kennedy, Barry Bates, Ann Phelan, Linda Bates, Emma Bates, Bernie Moloney and Eva Grant.

fixture details or changes. Our under 12 boys, under 10 boys and under 10 girls played in the John Prendergast hurling tournament in Thomastown over the weekend and contributed some great hurling.

Our under 8 boys were in action in Ballycallan also.

Our under 6 team are playing away while our minor and under 20 team are on a break until after the state exams. Well done to all.

Piltown Draw 2025; Tickets are now on sale from committee members. Costing 50 euros for five draws the first of which takes place on June 10th.

Great prizes on offer including 3 cars, holidays and cash. At least half of all monies raised is returned to the clubs. Thanks again to all who support.

New Away Jersey and Baseball Hat; Our new away jersey is now for sale online. For this and all other gear go to the O’Neills website and simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box.

Split the Pot; The next draw will take place on Friday week, June 13th. .Thanks again for the continued support.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN Tom Healy

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

The Active Retirement Group meets on 19th June at 11am in the Paulstown Community Hall. Activities include gardening, painting and yoga. All welcome. Annual member for €25.

ART WORKSHOP (PAULSTOWN) Weekend drawing and painting studio practice led by Elizabeth Cope at Shankill Castle on 27th and 28th June plus 26th and 27th July. Each day will be of intense work, inspired by woodland landscape and garden produce. Participants may bring their own materials to develop a sustained work and supporting drawings from life. Bookings and enquiries: phoebecope@gmail.com BRIDGE UNITED A Soccer Summer Camp for boys and girls aged 4-14 will run on 2nd,3th, 4th July from 10am to 1pm Sign up via club facebook page.

Congratulations to the Under-18s and their coaches on winning the Henderson Cup. The result was

Bridge United 2-2 Evergreen with both of the Bridge scores by Kieran Timmons and an overall win of 2-1 on penalties.

The winner of last week’s lotto draw was Alexandra Whitehead (€100).

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses are on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and at 10am on Wednesday in Goresbridge. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm.

Church of Ireland services Sunday, 8th June in Goresbridge at 11.30am, on Sunday 15th at Shankill at 10am and at Borris at 11.30am.

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

MEN’S SHED The Mens Shed takes place every second Tuesdays at 11am in the community hall in Paulstown. Cup of tea, chat, woodwork and upcoming visits to other sheds. Next meeting is on Tuesday 17th June.

MRS HENNESSY RIP The death has occurred of Kay Hennessy of Kilkenny and formerly of Blackacre, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny. Predeceased by her parents Patrick and Margaret, brothers Jim and Andy and sister Margaret, nephew John, grand niece Eimear and grand nephew Kyle. Kay will be sadly missed by her brother-in-law Liam and sister-in-law Sighle, much loved aunt of Margaret, Mary, Pat, Jimmy, Deirdre, Marguerite, Fiona, Eoin Edward, Padraig, Sean, Gerard, Andrew, Colm, Dermot, Stephen and Eimear, sadly missed by her grand-nieces and grand-nephews and great-grand-nieces and greatgrand-nephews, neighbours and friends.

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

SPLIT THE POT In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser. ie DONATIONS Tar Isteach is looking for good quality bric a brac, household items, it comes in and goes out twice as fast - also good quality men’s clothes, handbags etc. we have enough toys and books for the moment!

TIDY THURSDAYS (GORESBRIDGE) Help is needed even if you just want to help in your

own estate. On Thursdays we meet at 7pm in the locality. See relevant facebook pages for detail of location. There is a lot of weeding, strimming and painting to be done.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH GRAIG NOTES If you want to submit news items, club events, announcements etc, you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com.or ring 0892579882.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW The winners of the Draw held on 29/05/ 2025. were First Prize €392.00 Tony Butler, 2nd Prize €50 Sean and Sophie. The Following also won €25 each Shelley Kooppko , Eilish Cotello, Willlie Connolly, Paddy Clifford, Kathleen Bolger, 3rd Prize €Trish and Lara. € 25, Money raised through Tidy Towns Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all year round.

RAMBLING HOUSE The Monthly Rambling House Session is on the second Friday of each month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also many artists from the surrounding district also join in. The next Session is on Friday June 13th 2025,at 7.30pm MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH Monday to Friday 10am Saturday 7pm , and Sunday 11.00.am.

CLINIC Cllr Brian Cleere will hold his Clinic at his office at Upper Main St Graiguenamanagh on Monday evenings from 6;30pm.

SAINT MARY’S PARISH Greater involvement for laity in Diocese of Ossory.

The revised Constitution for the Ossory Diocesan Forum was published recently. The greater involvement of laity in the life of the Church in Ossory at parish, pastoral area and diocesan level is the main theme of the new Constitution. The Forum consists of Parish Pastoral Councils, thirteen Pastoral Area Councils, an Ossory Diocesan Pastoral Council and a Plenary Body consisting of all members of these three groups. The Parish Pastoral Council is a consultative leadership group through which priests and lay people work together as co-responsible partners in furthering the mission of Christ in their

own parish.

As a group, they think, discern and plan for the parish on an ongoing basis to identify and respond to present and future pastoral needs. The Pastoral Area Councils will enable member parishes to both discern and work collaboratively and form a basis for the co-responsibility of priests, religious and lay people for the faith life of the pastoral area. The revised Constitution has been approved by Council of Priests and The Ossory Diocesan Pastoral Council (ODPC) The ODPC is the Executive Body of the Diocesan Forum, which works in liaison with the Parish Pastoral and Pastoral Area Councils. It is a consultative group with whom the Bishop can promote, support and coordinate the work of these Councils.

This is achieved through modelling synodality, collaboration and co-responsibility for the life of the diocese / Bishop, priests and laity working together.

Through its monthly meetings, the ODPC considers issues from various areas of life in which the diocese is engaged. Currently its focus is on the establishment of the Pastoral Area Councils. Membership of the ODPC: Bishop Niall Coll, President, Ms Sarah Rice, Chairperson, Mr John Shortall, Secretary, Mgr Dan Carroll, Vicar General, Fr. Martin Delaney, Fr. Dan Bollard, Sr. Helen Maher, Forum Coordinator, Ms Gemma Mulligan, Pastoral Coordinator, Ms Ann Daly, Ms Bríd Duffy, Mr Diarmuid Healy.

REMEMBERING DEIRDRE AND TOM As the 2024 - 2025 CBS school year draws to a close, and as teachers, students and administration look forward to the summer months, school principal Tom Clarke reflected on a year of learning, growth, and community spirit. “It has been a year filled with wonderful achievements and moments of joy, yet also tinged with sadness as we mourn the loss of two cherished former colleagues”, said Mr Clarke.

The principal remembered Deirdre Roche Doherty and Tom O’Loughlin and spoke of their dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment to CBS Secondary School Kilkenny, which left an indelible mark on all. Tom Clarke said that the school would remember them very fondly JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE Jubilee Year Of Hope Young Adults - Dare to Hope – Conference for Young Adult from the age of 18-35 yrs. Knock Shrine – Saturday 14th June 2025 – 9.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. This event is for all Young Adults but there will be a special welcome for those who are travelling to Rome for the Jubilee of Youth and will be part of their preparation; however please know that it is open to all Young Adults. Cost: €20 Register via Eventbrite.

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 0567721352 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 PADRE PIO Padre Pio’s Glove will be in Fitzpatrick’s House, Kilberry, Athy, Co. Kildare on Saturday 14th June from 11.00am-5.00pm. More information call Ann 085 1696189 THE SPIRITANS Fr. Pat Palmer wishes to thank most sincerely the parishioners of St. Mary’s Cathedral who contributed so generously to their recent collection towards their Missionary work. The collection amounted to €1,496.50.

CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKSHOP St Mary’s Cathedral, Chapter House Bookshop Monday 9.30am till 1.00pm and Tuesday - Friday 9.30am till 5.00pm.

KILMACOW CREATIVE DANCE WORKSHOP Kilmacow Youth Club, in association with Creative Ireland, is hosting a free Creative Dance Workshop, suitable for age group 10 to 17 years, in the Community Centre from 6.00pm to 7.30pm on Saturday, 7th June. Contact any member of the Youth Club for details.

FRIENDLY MASCOTS The Community Centre will host Friendly Mascots (live tribute show) at 3.00pm on Saturday, 14th June. Admission is €10 per child, €5 per adult, and

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Community & GAA Notes a family pass (2 adults and 2 children) is €25. Doors will be open from 2.30pm.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 8, 10, 13 and 25. There were five Lucky Dips at €40 each.

The Jackpot for next Thursday night is €7,200.

BOOK SALE Gayle Sutton (53 Chapelgate) will hold her annual book sale on Saturday and Sunday, 28th and 29th June, in aid of the fund set up to provide for the needs of Seán McCarthy. Seán is married to Anne Marie Renehan, formerly of the Upper Street. Anne Marie and her daughter, Aoibheann, are trying to get Seán home after spending two years in hospital as a result of a brain injury. Donations of books can be submitted to her at her house in Chapelgate or to her Mam, Maura Sutton, at Narabane.

MAINTENANCE OF OLD GRAVEYARD The working group for local graveyards will continue its work for this year at the Lower Street, Kilmacow from 2.00pm on Saturday, 7th June. All offers of assistance appreciated.

CARE ASSISTANT Rosedale Residential Home is seeking a Night Time Health Care Assistant for 22 to 40 hours per week.

Please contact Claire at Rosedale on 885125 for details.

MULLINAVAT Mullinavat Matters The next meeting of Mullinavat Matters will be held in the Community Centre at 8.00pm on Tuesday, 10th June. All welcome to attend.

LOCAL LINK SERVICE Local Link operates the 492 service from Mullinavat leaving at 8.45am for Waterford on Wednesdays and Fridays. The bus returns from City Square in Waterford at 1.00pm. This is a Demand Responsive service so booking is essential. The fare is €2 each way and children under 3 years travel free. The Free Travel Pass is accepted. For online information please visit locallinkckw.ie. Booking and registration can be completed by telephone on 0818 42 41 41 or 056 77`5912 or by e-mail at ckw@locallink.ie.

IVERK SHOW People can now pre-book tickets for the Iverk Show on Saturday, 23rd August. Please telephone 051 644621 or e-mail secretary@iverkshow.ie for more details.

MOONCOIN SUMMER CAMP Scoil Mhuire will host a summer camp for boys and girls, aged 6 to 12 years, from 14th to 18th July.

Activities include arts and crafts, obstacle course, team puzzles, stem activities etc. The cost per participant is €65. Contact Ms. Burke for more details.

MARFAN GOLF CLASSIC The Marfan Research Foundation will host a golf classic in Waterford Golf Club on Friday, 27th June.

The entry per team is €120. Please contact Anita McGrath for more details.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL BRIDGE Freshford Bridge Club will host Open Summer Bridge at Tulla Hall, Threecastles commencing on Monday 8th June, 2025 at 7.30 p.m. All bridge players are welcome.

TIDY TOWNS Ballyragget Tidy Towns have been hard at work and the town is looking great. The memorial baskets are back on the bridge this year and looking great, well done to one and all for their hard work.

CHRISTY RING CUP Congratulations to Jack Morrissey of Byrnesgrove who was part of the victorious London side who won the Christy Ring cup in Croke Park on Saturday.

SYMPATHY Sympathies are extended to the family of Tony Bannon formerly of Castlegardens who passed away and was laid to rest in Rossory Co. Fermanagh on Sunday, to his son Mark Bannon and daughter Michelle (Costello, Ballyhale) to his brothers, son in law Brendan, Marks partner Catherine, his grandaughter and all the wider family and friends May he rest in peace.

Sympathies are also extended to Kay Walshe Knockroe on the sad passing of her brother John in Kilkenny. Sympathies are sent to all the family. May he rest in peace.

CEMETERY MASS Cemetery mass this Friday night in St Finnans Ballyragget 7.30pm and Saturday night in Ballyouskill at 6.30pm.

ST PATRICK’S GAA The Phelan Stone Tournament was held Saturday and Sunday of the Bank Holiday weekend and once

again a large group of teams from across Ireland travelled to take part from 3 provinces 10 counties - 21 teams!

The Phelan trophy was retained by O’Loughlin Gaels on Sunday after they saw off a spirited Stradbally side from Co.Waterford. The M and A Coaches trophy was won by Sixmilebridge from Clare who beat St. Lachtains. The Stone trophy was won by Erin’s Own GAA who defeated Clough Ballacolla of Laois in the final.

In recognition of the 25th anniversary of the inaugural running of the tournament, a commemorative plaque was unveiled recalling the contributions to the event by past and deceased members over the 25 years. Thank you to all who organised and helped at the event and to those who prepared the pitch and grounds for the weekend.

JOHNSTOWN FAMILY FIELD FESTIVAL A Family Field Festival will be held on June 15th starting at 10am. The annual field festival will be held in the Sportsfield on the Rathdowney Road.

There will be sports, a hurling blitz, family fun games, crafts, funfair, hurling skills, art exhibition, school violin recital and much more. Following on in the evening is live music with Sweet Freedom and DJ Mick Glendon. There will also be a Dog Show. A festival raffle with prizes including Irish Hotels Voucher, restaurant voucher, hardware voucher, local business vouchers, drinks and chocolate hamper, garden items and local business basket.

Tickets are on sale now nin the local shops € 2 or three for € 5. Your support for the Festival would be greatly appreciated.

MR. THOMAS BOLAND RIP The death has taken place at Villa Marie Nursing Home, Roscrea of Thomas Boland ,Foulkscourt, Johnstown. Predeceased by his parents, brothers and sister, he will be sadly missed by his wife Brigid, son Oliver, daughters Deirdre and Sharon, daughter in law Michelle, son in law Jim, grandchildren Kevin, Tadhg, Eadaoin, Sinead, David and Mark, great grandchildren, brother Patrick, sisters Mary, Margaret, Ann, Breda and Winnie, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church followed by interment in St. Kieran’s Cemetery.

GRAINE CARDS There will be no Wednesday night cards in Graine Hall until further notice.

FRESHFORD BRIDGE CLUB Freshford Bridge Club will host Open Summer Bridge at Tulla Hall, Threecastles commencing Monday June 8th at 7.30pm. All bridge players welcome.

FENIANS GAA Helping London to beat Derry and win the Christy Ring Cup was Owen Sheil a native of Crosspatrick.

In the Cumann na mBunscoil county semi final St. Kierans N.S. won their game against a team from the Model School.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were 7,13,16,27,there was no jackpot winner and three match threes Michelle and Annette, Sinead Holohan and Paul Fitzgerald.

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

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

EXAMS Best of luck to all those doing the Junior and Leaving Certificate exams beginning on this Wednesday, 4th June.

ANNUAL MASS Ballynonty Garden of Remembrance Annual Mass will take place on Thursday 19th June at 7pm.

CEMETERY MASSES The following dates has been set for the annual cemetery masses in the parish. All mass times will be at 7.30pm. Tuesday 24th June, Glengoole Church graveyard, Thursday 26th June, Aglish cemetery, Tuesday 8th July, Ballinalackin cemetery, Thursday 10th July, Good Shepherd cemetery, Thursday 31st July, Fennor cemetery and Tuesday 12th August, Boulick cemetery.

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.

EVENING OF FILM AND MUSIC AT GLENGOOLE HALL Please keep Saturday 7th June at 6.30pm where a special screening presented by Molly Kiely of the short documentary At the Bottom of the Reen about Buddy’s Pub, followed by a collection of intimate musical performances filmed there last summer. This event is held in loving memory of the late Denis Kiely GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the June special bingo last Saturday. We had a full Hall and delighted with the support from the Parish.

TABLE QUIZ Ballysloe NS Parents Association are holding a table quiz this Friday 6th June in Hogan’s Pub Ballysloe at 8pm. Raffle, music and finger food on the night.

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 Caroline Leahy c/o Gortnahoe Playschool, who won €213 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 June Split the Pot will be in support of Gortnahoe Playschool. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CONAHY HURLING Both the junior B and junior E hurlers were in action over the weekend. The junior B hurlers travelled up to Muckalee on Friday night last to play St. Martin’s in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior B League, while the junior E hurlers hosted O’Loughlin Gaels in Jenkinstown on Sunday morning last in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior E League.

The junior B hurlers had a tough and close battle with St. Martin’s right until the final quarter, until the home side managed to find their scoring range to extend their lead over Conahy, eventually winning by 1-21 to 1-13. The junior E hurlers put up a very commendable performance, but were narrowly defeated by O’Loughlin Gaels, who won out by 1-18 to 1-16. Both teams will now look forward to their respective championship first round matches, which will both take place in July.

The under-14 hurlers had another deserved win, this time at home to Mount Leinster Rangers, on Friday night last in the Duggan Steel Roinn C League. Conahy continued to show signs of real improvement as they won out by 3-14 to 1-8. They have a busy week ahead as they play three matches over the next week. They firstly play Mullinavat tonight (Wednesday) at 7.00 in Mullinavat, following by a pair of home games against Naomh Bríd and Thomastown on this Friday and next Wednesday (June 11th) respectively, each at 7.00 p.m.

CAMOGIE Conahy Shamrocks camogie were very fortunate to have five members of the adult camogie team play for the Kilkenny Under-23 team who defeated Waterford in the All-Ireland Under-23 championship. Well done to Sofia Kerr, Emma Mulhall, Ellen Gunner, Katie Brennan and Amy Brennan on the great achievement.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 5, 6 and 26. Áine Farrelly was the lucky jackpot winner of €3,600. The promoter prize winners were Helen Cahill, Toddy Lacey and Larry Bergin. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

BRIDGE Freshford Bridge Club will host Open Summer Bridge at Tulla Hall, Threecastles commencing on Monday 8th June, 2025 at 7.30 p.m. All bridge players are welcome.

KNOCK SHRINE PILGRIMAGE A local pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on Saturday, June 28th. A bus will leave Freshford at

7.30 a.m., arriving and then departing at Jackmans in Jenkinstown at 8.00 a.m., before doing similarly in Ballyragget at 8.15 a.m. Please book a place as soon as possible if wishing to attend by contacting 056-7767676 or 086-3655418. The cost of the bus fare is €30.

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

Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m., Sunday at 10.00a.m.

Stoneyford: Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.

6th. June, 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.

Cemetery Mass, Mass will be celebrated in Calvary Cemetery on Friday 6th. June at 8.00p.m.

Anniversary Masses: Jim Doran: Stoneyford: Mass in Stoneyford Church on 7th. June at 6.30p.m.

ROTA (FEAST OF PENTECOST) Reader; Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tom King Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy: Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm. Mary Cahill; Sunday 10.00am. Ruth Foran. Note: New Rota for Hugginstown Church, please collect in Sacristy.

HOLY GHOST MISSIONS Priest from The Spiritans will speak at all Masses in the parish next weekend.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 26th. May 2025 Numbers: 24; 29; 26; 21.

No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn: No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Patrick Foran, “On-Line”; Mary Holden, Ballyhale. Margaret Foran,“On Line” Adrian Hudson,“On-Line” Cillian Walshe, Chapel View 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): James Irish; Ger Carroll; Teresa Fitzgerald; EXAMINATION TIME: Best wishes to all pupils sitting public examinations this year.

NEWMARKET SCHOOL A book celebrating the Centenary of Newmarket School is available to purchase in Fitzgerald’s Shop, Hugginstown.

MONROE SCHOOL GOT TALENT Calling all Singers, Dancers and Performers: Showcase your talent and help support school development. Talent Show in Malzards, Stoneyford on 18th.

October 2025. Closing Date for entry 6th. June.

Contact; Mairead on 086 783 9122 “DARE TO HOPE” This event is for Young Adults from the age of 18-35 and it will take place in the Youth Village, Knock on 14th. June this year. It is a follow on from the “Into the Deep” event which took place in Clongowes on Saturday 22nd. June last year. This event is for all Young Adults but there will be a special welcome for those who are travelling to Rome for the Jubilee of Youth and will be part of their preparation, however it is open to all Young Adults. This year, we are blessed to partner with the team at Knock Shrine, allowing us to expand our reach and welcome even more young adults from across the country. What began as an invitation-only event last year has now grown into a larger gathering that promises to nourish and inspire the faith of young Catholics throughout Ireland.

DATES TO REMEMBER IN THE PARISH FOR 2025 Cemetery Masses: Mass will be celebrated in Kilkeasy Cemetery on Friday 20th. 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. Mass will be celebrated in Sheepstown Cemetery on Friday 18th. July at 8.00p.m.

WORKSHOP ON SYNODALITY A special weekend workshop on Synodality, will take place on 28th. and 29th. June 2025 at the Focolare Centre in Prosperous, Co. Kildare. This event is inspired by the international formation programme coordinated by the Evangelii Gaudium Centre at Sophia University Institute (Italy), in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Synod in Rome and will offer both theological depth and practical tools for fostering a synodal Church at local level. The workshop is open to all: clergy, religious, lay leaders, pastoral council members and parishioners. All welcome. It will be facilitated by experienced international trainers.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Hurlng matters - Preview

Kilkenny seek the joys of SIX!

Skill and determination - Mossy’s the man!

Provincial crown on the line as Tribesmen look to tame Cats

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster GAA Senior Hurling Championship Final 2025 Kilkenny vs Galway Sunday, 4pm, Croke Park Referee: Johnny Murphy (Limerick) Kilkenny will go in search of a sixth consecutive provincial title this weekend when they face-off against old foes, Galway in Croke Park on Sunday afternoon (Throw-in 4pm).

While the debate across the Island of Ireland continues as to the hierarchy in our beloved sport, both Leinster finalists will block out the chatter and noise surrounding ‘Munster is where it’s at’ and concentrate on the battle to lift the Bob O’Keefe Cup at the Jones’ Road venue.

Having already met during the ‘round robin’ stage of the

provincial championship, Sunday’s decider should be a competitive and feisty affair and while the Cats will go into the game as favourites, you would be foolish to ignore the merits of the Connacht side.

Michéal Donoghue’s return to lead the Tribesmen has certainly galvanized Galway and the players appear to be happy with ‘one of their own’ in charge. Henry Shefflin was always going to be up against it when he ventured west, but his successor has plenty of credit in the bank and will be given time to put his stamp on matters again. Don’t forget, it was with the Clarinbridge clubman at the helm that Galway last lifted both Leinster and AllIreland titles in 2017 and 2018.

When the sides met in the opening round of this year’s competition, Derek Lyng’s charges ran out 12-point winners in a rather onesided game in UPMC Nowlan Park.

It is hard to see that margin of victory being repeated in Drumcondra this weekend. Cathal Mannion top scored for the men in maroon on that wet Easter Saturday in April, but some of their other big names didn’t really impact the game like expected.

The likes of captain Conor Whelan,

Brian Concannon and Declan McLoughlin were all kept on the periphery of the game, while raiding centre back, Gavin Lee had his hands full on the defensive front, which thwarted his attacking capabilities.

Having suffered defeat on Noreside, Michéal Donoghue’s outfit headed to Glenisk O’Connor Park to tackle Offaly, and they bounced back to make the trip back west with maximum points secured following a 14-point win over Johnny Kelly’s troops.

Such was the manner of the defeat to Kilkenny, the feeling was that the Galway faithful wouldn’t travel in numbers to Tullamore, but a healthy crowd of over 10,000 in attendance as the Westerners superior hurling, skill and speed ensured they took the victory, despite playing the second half with 14 men, following

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Hurling matters - Preview Cian Kenny has been influential in 2025

Jordan Molloy and David Blanchfield will look to quieten the Tribesmen

Captain John Donnelly will hope to lead his cats to glory

Daithi Burke’s red card for a little flare-up after the short whistle sounded. Again, Cathal Mannion was in eye-catching form, notching 2-8, 1-5 of which came from play.

Corner forward Colm Molloy and TJ Brennan were also stellar performers against The Faithful County. Galway built on the Tullamore win with another victory in their round 3 clash with Wexford. When the long whistle sounded, they had ten points to spare over Keith Rossiter’s team, and yet again, AhascraghFohenagh clubman Cathal Mannion spearheaded his side to collect maximum points, finishing his afternoon’s work with 0-17 including six lovely points from play. Gavin Lee was back to his roaming best, notching 0-2 from his ‘6’ position, something that Kilkenny are going to have to curtail on Sunday if they are to get on top of Micheál Donoghue’s men. Cianan Fahy was another to register a brace of scores, with the number 5 on his back.

Having picked up back-to-back wins in the group stage, another game in Salthill was next up for the Tribesmen, and a visit from Davy Fitzgerald and his Saffron’s. As expected, the home side learnt very little from this facile win. Twentyeight points separated the teams at the long whistle, and in truth,

the contest was probably done and dusted before the sides turned round for the second period, as Galway were 11-points up having played against the wind in Pearse Stadium.

Antrim’s cause wasn’t helped when they were reduced to 14 men juts before the break, Declan McCloskey was sent off after linesman Johnny Murphy spotted something off the ball. This season’s championship top scorer for the Connacht side, Cathal Mannion was given a rest but once they found their groove, scoring wasn’t a problem. Conor Cooney hit 0-11, while Anthony Burns has 2-2 to his name. Two more players that Kilkenny will need to contain are Brian Concannon and Tom Monaghan and they registered 2-6 between them.

Results in the group meant that the final round game between Dublin and Galway would decide which side would secure a final berth and the chance to prevent six Leinster’s on the bounce for Kilkenny. The spicy contest took place in Parnell Park, and referee Colm Lyons was one of the busiest men on the pitch as both sides really went at it in a game that screamed championship hurling. It was a return to the Capital for Westerners boss, Micheál Donoghue who had managed the boys in blue for a couple of seasons

prior to resuming managerial duties in his home county. Having rested a number of players for the Antrim game, the Galway boss restored Padraic Mannion, Daithi Burke, David Burke, John Fleming and Cathal Mannion to the starting lineup.

Dead ball specialist Mannion notched 0-8 in the win, while Brian Concannon (0-5) and Tom Monaghan (0-4) were again very prominent as Galway secured a provincial final berth with their first championship win over Dublin in the capital and were full value for a 5-point win with a total of ten different scorers registering for the Supermac’s sponsored side.

Derek Lyng and his management team will have done their homework on Galway, ahead of Sunday’s decider, but might need to wait a little longer to see who the opposition netminder will be. Darach Fahy has been the preferred number 1, but the Ardrahan clubman is awaiting his county’s appeal on a retrospective one-match ban handed down by the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC), Fahy made contact with his hurl against Andrew Jamieson-Murphy’s leg after he made a clearance. Should the ban be upheld, Tommy

Larkins player Eanna Murphy will come in for the Tribesmen, and the experienced netminder’s participation will not weaken his sides cause. In defence, TJ & Co. are likely to come up against at least one Burke, in Fintan and another experienced ‘head’ in Padraic Mannion. Tuloughmore’s Daithi Burke could start as well.

The halfback line is a dangerous cog in this Galway machine, a bit like Kilkenny’s. Gavin Lee is an exceptional athlete and likes to trouble the scoreboard and the Clarinbridge player may have fellow clubman TJ Brennan flanking him on one side with Cianan Fahy on the other.

Tom Monaghan will slug it out in the engine room perhaps with David Burke for company, and their battle with Cian Kenny and Jordan Molloy will be pivotal. The Cats duo have been ploughing their trade well in the middle of the park and like to pick off a score or two also. As with any hurling match, placed ball accuracy is a key factor in securing victory, and in TJ Reid and Cathal Mannion, there will be two quality exponents of this art.

Both sides have mercurial forwards that can light up a venue like Croke Park. Galway has Conor Whelan; we have Eoin Cody. Both have shown glimpses of hitting championship form and both are crucial to their team’s chances of being crowed provincial kings. Killimordaly’s Brian Concannon will look to ‘rough up’ the Kilkenny rearguard, but in Huw Lawlor, we have one of the best, if not thee best full-back in the business, a seriously classy hurler.

While it has taken time to get some players back on the pitch, manager Derek Lyng has been instrumental in helping unleash a reinvigorated Mossy Keoghan. The Tullaroan attacking star has been

in inspirational form this season and is looking both clinical and hungry as he attempts to propel the Cats back to the top of the pile.

Thomastown’s success has also led to opportunity for a number of players, notably, Stephen Donnelly who has looked at home in the black and amber stripes. It could well be his teammate and county captain, John Donnelly that is tasked with occupying Gavin Lee, a difficult job for anyone. Another player that has been managed brilliantly on his return from injury is Adrian Mullen.

The Shamrocks Ballyhale man was deployed at centre back in the recent game with Wexford and his game intelligence and ability to give long accurate passes suits the flamehaired stickman.

If Bob O’Keefe number 77 is to be gained on Sunday, Mikey Butler, Tommy Walsh and Mikey Carey will all have big roles to play. Butler and Walsh could be given detailed marking jobs, while Young Ireland’s Carey possesses great athleticism and fielding ability to win many battles across the Croke Park pitch. Finding roles for physically imposing players such as Paddy Deegan and Fionan Mackessy could be key also, the latter possibly from the bench as Kilkenny seek to gain advantage. There will be plenty of players itching to get a taste of provincial final action in Croker, and that hunger and desire will be needed in the capital this weekend.

Unfortunately, we might not see Luke Hogan on Sunday, due to injury, but the likes of Eoin Wall, Luke Connellan and Billy Drennan will be chomping at the bit to bring more Leinster glory to Noreside.

Let’s hope and pray that it’s John Donnelly climbing the steps of the Hogan Stand with a big smile on his face and that the ribbons are those of black and amber.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

FURTHER INFORMATION I, Seán Power have submitted significant further information for development at the site situated at: Coolehill Upper, Windgap, Co. Kilkenny, a Protected Structure (ref. no D59- in the Kilkenny City and County Development Plan 2021-2027/NIAH Ref no. 12319006 Ref. No. of the application: 24 60371 The development applied for consisted of: a) Demolition of one no. flat roof, concrete extension to the rear of the building, one no. lean-to extension to the rear of the building and one no. corrugated steel shed to the front of the property. b) Construction of a part single storey, part two storey 125m2 extension to the rear of the property. c) Change of use of the building from derelict creamery building to a mixed-use development consisting of short-term tourist accommodation, multi-purpose communal spaces and one no. private apartment. d) Internal alterations, formation of new openings to the rear of the existing building and the installation of new windows and doors. e) New vehicular entrance from the R698 public road. f) Provision of bicycle parking and 11 No. car parking spaces including 4 No. EV charging spaces g) Provision of 18 No. Motorhome Aire spaces and associated facilities. h) Construction of a 36m2 facilities building consisting of toilets, showers and bin store. i) Provision of PV panels to the rear of the existing building. j) Public lighting to car-parking and walkways throughout the site. k) Landscaping and planting throughout the site. l) Site drainage works including surface water infiltration and new on-site wastewater treatment facility. m) Site boundary works to existing and new boundaries.

Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation 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: Seán Power

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Jean O’Carroll for full planning permission to carry out the following works to cottage at Croan, Dunnamaggin, Co. Kilkenny 1. Demolish existing front porch & rear extension 2. Replacement of existing flat roof to cottage with pitched roof and formation of dormer window 3. Construction of a 2 storey extension to rear of cottage 4. Upgrade of existing wastewater system to current EPA Standards 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.

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

We, Kilkenny and Carlow Education & Training Board intend to apply for planning permission for the following works at Grennan College, Lady’s Well, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.

• Construction of a new two storey extension to the eastern side of the existing building which was granted permission under Planning Reference. No. 19/894.

• Internal alterations and elevational modifications to the southern end of the existing main school building, including new window openings and the application of an external insulation system.

• New car parking area and all associated site & ancillary works.

The proposed development is in an area of archaeological potential.

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, Paul Aylward and Jessica Connery intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for a two-storey storey dwelling, vehicular entrance, borewell, detached single-storey garage, foul treatment tank & percolation area and all associated site works at Castlemorris, 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.

Signed: Nextgen Design & Build Ltd. www.ngdb.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought for a single storey extension to provide Special Education Needs (SEN) capacity at the school.

The accommodation includes a base classroom, office, multi-activity room, quiet space, toilets and store. It also includes for a secure soft play area and for the relocation of the all-weather pitch. The school is located to the south of Burnchurch church and graveyard (KK023-072-01/02) a Recorded Monument. The proposed works to include all ancillary and associated services all at Burnchurch National School, Burnchurch, 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Applicant: Board of Management, Burnchurch National School.

CONTACT OFFICE: 056 7771463/087 3820109 OR EMAIL: SALES@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.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. U.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.G.

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. U.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. L.Q.

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. U.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

46

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

Classifieds Motors

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

087 2587745

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 6th June 2025

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