Kilkenny Observer 07 February 2025

Senator Stephenson

Final count shows 20 women are among 49 elected to Seanad

The final count of the Seanad showed 20 women among 49 senators elected – among them Kilkenny-based Patricia Stephenson of the Social Democrats.

This completes the counts on the vocational and university panels for the 27th Seanad, with a total of 49 Senators elected across all sectors.

The Taoiseach will in the next few days nominate 11

appointees to the Seanad to bring it up to its full complement of 60 Senators.

The direct appointments are expected to comprise six form Fianna Fáil and five Fine Gael, many of whom will have been unsuccessful General Election candidates.

The Taoiseach has indicated that he would prefer females in his nominations because of the controversy over gen-

Zahra back on her feet again

World Irish Dancing Champion Zahra Khodabacksh will join Jeremy Hickey for a Percussion and Dance Performance – blending Hickey’s unique style of percussion with Irish Dance – during this year’s St Patrick’s Festival

This special night-time St Patrick’s festival performance outside Kilkenny Castle on the Festival stage features drummer Jeremy from RSAG and 2024 World Champion Irish dancer Zahra from the Kilkenny Academy of Irish Dance.

A beautiful atmospheric performance from the heart of our medieval city showcasing brilliant drumming and dancing alongside a lit up Kilkenny Castle as part of Ireland’s Global Greening for St Patrick’s Day 2025.

der balance in the Cabinet and the Dáil.

Ireland stands on the cusp of a significant milestone in political representation. The recent Seanad elections have highlighted both progress and potential for women in local government, according to See Her Elected, the national programme supporting women’s political participation in local government.

Twenty women now hold Seanad seats, representing 40% of the elected members of the chamber. “There is now a historic opportunity to achieve gender balance in one house of the Oireachtas, particularly if Taoiseach Michéal Martin uses his power to appoint additional women to bring about parity,” said Dr Michelle Maher, Programme Manager with See Her Elect-

ed. The election of 14 county councillors to Seanad Éireann would also result in the need for further co-options and See Her Elected were calling on political parties to co-opt women into these vacated council seats. The recent co-option process to fill 52 county council seats vacated after the recent General Election resulted in 21 women taking office. Despite

Value of our Country Homes up 44%

The prime country homes market in Ireland saw an impressive 44% increase in the total transaction value in 2024, reaching €275 million, according to a new report from property advisor Savills Ireland. Kilkenny showed a very positive upturn, with eight homes selling for a total of €11,690,000. This surge highlights a robust demand for luxury country homes, with the market far exceeding the

10-year average transaction value of €139 million.

Using Property Price Register data, Savills examined prime country home transactions, which are defined as transactions greater than one million euros and located outside of Dublin, the major regional cities, and north Wicklow.

Savills’ report noted that despite economic uncertainties and fluctuating global conditions, the luxury seg-

ment of Ireland’s real estate market has shown remarkable resilience and attractiveness. The average transaction size held steady at €1.6 million across 168 deals, underscoring a stable highend market.

Highlights of 2024:

• Cork: Emerged as the leader with €84.0 million in sales across 35 transactions.

• Kildare: Close behind with €64.5 million from 40 transactions.

Telling it like it is. And with no holds barred

• Wicklow: Generated €21.6 million from 18 deals.

• Carlow: Generated €2,275,000 from just two deals.

• Meath and Kerry: Also noted for substantial activity, recording €16.4 million and €13.4 million in sales, respectively.

Cianan Duff, Associate Director at Savills Ireland commented, “The 44% growth in transaction value this year is a testament to the endur-

ing appeal of Ireland’s prime country homes. Buyers continue to value the unique combination of luxury and privacy that these properties offer.”

The report indicates that the proximity of counties Kilkenny Kildare and Wicklow to Dublin contributes significantly to their popularity, accommodating buyers who favour a hybrid working lifestyle with easy access to urban centres.

this, the overall net gain in female councillors was still just 10, the statement said, leaving women’s representation in local government at a mere 27% (256 female councillors out of 949). Ireland remains ranked 87th out of 141 countries in the UN dataset on elected seats held by women in local government bodies.

See also Page 5

What now for Irish in US?

During the recession years of the Eighties and in the subsequent decades many Irish went to America on that 90-day visa but never came home. To pursue the promised American dream, they went under the radar, secured work – even paid their taxes – and settled in among communities, marrying and rearing children. They became the ‘undocumented’ Irish in the US.

Now, with Donald Trump back in the White House, there are questions over the future of the very many Irish people living undocumented. Paul Hopkins Page 8

Let’s hear it for our SMEs

Small and Medium

Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy. Like physical spines they support the country, yet they don’t get much coverage, and, when they do, the focus is often on their struggle to survive and grow.

Like all of us, SMEs have been battling with rising costs. Other challenges include difficulty in accessing finance, regulatory red tape, difficulty in recruiting and retaining staff and hurdles like Brexit. Pleas for a reduction in the 13.5% Vat rate on hospitality and retail weren’t answered in the last Budget.

Marianne Heron Page 12

Great advice.

Your money in mind

A straight shooter. Considerate and wise words JOHN

MARIANNE HERON

GERRY MORAN

Our students off to the movie awards

Students from Kilkenny have made the shortlist for this year’s FÍS Film Awards which will judge short movies about Anne Frank, Magic Homework, Irish folklore, Artificial Intelligence, and more among the finalists. In its 19th year, the event takes place at the Helix, Dublin on Wednesday, February 12.

Partnering with the Institute of Art, Design, and Technology, and hosted by RTÉ’s Sinead Kennedy, the highly anticipated ceremony aims to inspire and celebrate the creativity of the next generation of cinematic visionaries.

Finalists from Kilkenny include St Patrick’s School for their short film Closing Date.

students’ technological and communication skills from within the classroom in an enjoyable and engaging manner.

The FÍS Film Project aims to not only give young students across the country the chance to be creative and collaborate with their peers, but also helps teachers improve their

The annual event honours the filmmaking achievements of Irish primary school students and their teachers across multiple categories, with the distinguished Film Of The Year Award taking centre stage. Awards are presented for student contributions in directing, acting, design, music, and a wide range of film genres, including comedy, drama, horror, science fiction and films in Irish among others. Through the FÍS Film Project, students are encouraged to develop their teamwork and collaboration skills, while also being provided with filmmaking tools and equipment to foster creativity and innovation in the safe environment of their school.

The 2025 event will be filmed, broadcast, and produced by third-level students from IADT’s National Film School, offering them valuable professional experience in the

industry to further develop their skills.

Speaking about this year’s finalists, Christina Reynolds, Creative Manager at the Institute of Art, Design & Technology said: “With so many entries and such a high level of talent involved this year, it was extremely difficult

to choose our finalists. It’s truly inspiring to witness the incredible creativity and innovation coming from young aspiring filmmakers who are guided by their teachers across the country. This year’s contest saw several entries that provided a creative twist on stories of historical significance.

“The awards highlight not just the talent of the students but also the power of collaboration and the role that technology and innovation play in shaping their storytelling. We look forward to this year’s awards which look to be bigger than ever before.”

Curtains up: from left, Luke O’Sullivan, Michael Macdonald and Fionn Denn from St Patricks School

Fewer houses built than Government had promised

Fewer than 30,000 houses were built in Ireland last year, according to new figures from Construction Information Services (CIS) – down on what was promised.

It said just 29,136 residential units were completed, with a particular fall in the border regions.

This is even lower than the 30,300 units reported last month by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), a figure that

was down 6.7% on the previous year.

The calculation by CIS is likely to put further pressure on the Government to explain why it was predicting last autumn that 40,000 or more houses would be completed in 2024.

Giving the Béal na Bláth oration in Cork last August, then Taoiseach Simon Harris said: “This year, we will exceed our housing targets

TV, broadband price jump of up to €96 a year is on the cards

Broadband and TV subscription costs are set to rise for hundreds of thousands of Sky Ireland customers.

The provider is increasing its prices for the majority of its estimated 600,000 subscribers from April.

The move is set to be followed by price rises by Eir, Vodafone and Three Ireland. All three impose a set percentage increase, plus the rate of inflation, each April.

Financial experts said Virgin Media may also hike its prices in response to the increases by its competitors.

Sky customers’ bills will increase by up to €96 a year from the start of April.

Broadband products, with the exception of the Sky 1Gb Fibre option, will increase by €4 a month, or €60 a year.

There is a €3-a-month rise on most TV base packs, and a rise of €2 a month for families that have Sky Kids.

Some customers’ bills will increase by up to €8 a month, or €96 a year. The rises are capped at €8 a month.

Overall, the price hike works out at an average of 4.5% a year. The increases do not affect those Sky customers who are still subject to promotional introductory terms.

Sky Ireland said in a statement: “In the coming weeks, we will notify our TV and broadband customers regarding a price increase that will come into effect from April 1, 2025.

“This price increase will

impact our TV and broadband customers, with the average bill to rise by 4.5%.”

The company said the price changes reflected the investment it had made to improve its products and services, as well as the increasing costs it said it continued to face.

“We know price increases are never welcome and have tried to keep this increase as low as possible by absorbing costs where we can, while still providing our customers with as much value as possible for the services and content they know and love,” the company said.

It said it had recently invested in new content and in extending existing sports rights.

Similar moves last year meant Sky Ireland’s TV and broadband customers were hit with average increases of around €52 over the period of a year. In better news for its customers, Sky is issuing what it calls a loss-of-service credit for TV and broadband customers who experienced faults due to Storm Éowyn.

Other broadband, mobile and TV subscription providers are expected to hike their prices in the coming months.

Eir has been increasing its prices every April, using the consumer price index for the previous January, plus 3%.

The same pricing model would apply this year and it then planned to move to a new bill structure, it said.

A promising start to sales of new cars

The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) today released their official 251 new vehicle registration statistics for January, showcasing a promising start to the year for the motor industry.

with almost 40,000 homes built.”

It later emerged that this number was taken from a letter sent to him by Darragh O’Brien, Housing Minister at the time.The Fianna Fáil TD repeated the claim himself on several occasions, telling the Dáil in October, just before the General Election was called, that he was confidently predicting that the completions “will be in the

high 30,000s to low 40,000s this year”.

By then, several independent analysts – including the ESRI and the Central Bank – were forecasting that the number would actually be similar to that of 2023, when 33,000 units were built.

Sinn Féin’s housing spokesman Eoin Ó Broin has claimed the Government “clearly and deliberately misled the electorate” about

housing completions in the run-up to November’s election.

“The Government knew well that this claim was neither credible nor true, but they repeated this misinformation regardless,” he said.

The CIS report does confirm that there was a record number of housing commencements, as builders got shovels into the ground in order to take advantage

of a waiver on development levies and a waiver on waterconnection charges.

“A record 70,412 residential units commenced construction – a 111% increase compared to 2023,” the report said. “This growth is largely attributed to government measures such as the development levy waiver and the Uisce Éireann rebate, which eased some of the financial burdens on developers.”

Patricia’s win ‘a landmark

Social Democrats acting leader Cian O’Callaghan has described the election of Kilkenny-based Patricia Stephenson to Seanad Éireann as a landmark day for the party.

Deputy O’Callaghan said:

“Patricia taking a Seanad seat marks another milestone for the Social Democrats following the increased mandate we received in the most recent local and general elections, where we almost doubled our number of councillors and TDs.

“For the first time, the party has seen a candidate elected to the Seanad. I know Patricia will make a valuable contribution as a senator and I look forward to welcoming her to our expanded parliamentary party,” he said.

“I would also like to thank our director of elections

Catherine Murphy, and deputy director of elections

Pádraig Rice TD, for the significant part they played in this fantastic result.”

Patricia Stephenson was born in Belfast and now lives

in Castlecomer. A peacebuilding and conflict prevention advisor by profession, she spent six years in East Africa as an international aid worker before returning home to Ireland.

Patricia Stephenson said: “I am delighted and honoured to have been elected as a senator on the Labour Panel. I look forward to working hard on issues such as workers’ rights and human rights, bringing my experience in the interna-

day’

tional development and peace building sectors into this role.

“There is a lot of hard work ahead, and I can’t wait to get started.”

* Our picture above shows, from left Pádraig Rice TD, deputy director of elections for Social Democrats; Catherine Murphy, director of elections; newly-elected senator Patricia Stephenson; and Cian O’Callaghan TD, Social Democrats acting leader.

Beat goes on, for aspiring radio students

New car registrations for the month of January were up 7% (33,521) compared to January 2024 (31,407).

Light Commercial vehicles (LCV) are down 16% (6,270) compared to January last year.

A group of 16 students and aspiring Radio professionals have begun the January 2025 Broadcast Course in Waterford SETU with Beat 102 103. Delivered by South East Technological University SETU, WLR FM and Beat 102103, the Certificate in Radio and Podcasting began its new term in Waterford. The Certificate in Radio and Podcasting is a practice-based introduction to radio broadcasting, presenting, and podcasting jointly developed and delivered by South East Tech-

nological University SETU, WLR FM, and Beat 102-103.

The course is delivered by both practicing broadcasters and academic lecturers and is designed to give an introduction to the operation of a commercial radio station and the day-to-day work of broadcasters within it.

Students who take part in the course are not required to have any previous experience in the radio industry upon entry to the twelve-week, part-time, level 6 course as it aims to help budding broad-

casters to get a ‘foot in the door’.

Speaking on the opening night, WLRFM CEO Michael Byrne said: “We’re thrilled to be involved again this year in the radio and podcasting course with SETU, Beat, and WLR. This course has been instrumental in shaping many talented broadcasting voices over the years, and we’re excited to see what this year’s course will bring!”.

SETU lecturer and former Beat presenter Rob O’Connor says the group this time

around is exciting as they come from all walks of life.

“The mix of students and their diverse backgrounds really gives me a buzz. We’ve got a plumber, a nurse specialising in post-natal depression, a software developer, a men’s shed volunteer, and an HR professional with a love for music. They all bring incredible energy to the class, bouncing ideas off each other.”

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

Where undocumented Irish now stand with Trump

I am that guy that always gets stopped by airport security after I have walked, nonchalantly I imagine, through the Green Area. I have nothing to declare, nor am I smuggling contraband. But I always get stopped. I must have that kind of demeanour, or whatever.

In my many trips to the US in the past 10 years to visit my two sons, I am allowed into America for the duration of my 90-day holiday visa. And I am always asked by American security at Dublin Airport where am I staying and when do I intend returning. My return ticket seems to satisfy the burly Homeland Security agents. I smile a ‘thank you’ to them. They don’t smile back.

During the recession years of the Eighties and in the subsequent decades many Irish went to America on that 90-day visa but never came home. To pursue the promised American dream,

they went under the radar, secured work – even paid their taxes – and settled in among communities, marrying and rearing children. They became the ‘undocumented’ Irish in the US.

The often quoted tally of 50,000 undocumented Irish immigrants in America has been equally as often disputed. Obviously, if you are there illegally, you don’t necessarily go around broadcasting the fact. The Pew Research Centre in Washington DC not long ago put the figure at more likely 10,000 t0 15,000. Any US census never asks one if they are in the country illegally so such censuses add nothing to the tally. However, data from the Department of Homeland Security shows that, on average, just 1,600 Irish people annually become permanent residents – like both my sons.

Now, with Donald Trump back in the White House, there are questions over the

future of the very many Irish people living undocumented, as Trump has vowed to carry out the “largest deportation effort in American history”.

Ohio Republican Representative David Joyce told RTÉ’s States of Mind podcast that he believed the US could see “hundreds of thousands” being deported from the country under Trump’s presidency. However when asked should Irish people worry, Mr Joyce said he believed that those who were going to be deported would be “criminals”.

“You want to deport everybody but the reality of that is that it would be very, very tough to do,” the congressman said.

Congressman Joyce, who has been re-elected for another term, said he understood that there were a lot of “good Irish” who had integrated into US society and were productive. However, a US immigra-

tion lawyer has warned that Trump’s citizenship restrictions could well impact the children of undocumented Irish.

One of Trump’s executive orders aims to remove the right to automatic US citizenship for children born to undocumented immigrants or

“Just 1,600 Irish people annually become permanent residents ...

those born to a mother legally in the US on a temporary basis (such as a work visa) when the father is not a US citizen or lawful permanent resident. Janice Flynn is a US-Irish citizen from Chicago who offers US immigration legal services in London and Dublin. Ms Flynn said that the (current) law grants automatic citizenship to anyone born in the US. “It’s straightforward enough. If you’re in the United States, and you give birth, you’re contributing to society – you need to have that considered [in assessing immigration status].”

She said that, for Irish citizens living in the US without residency, Trump’s move could limit their children’s involvement in society and “access to education, employment and healthcare”.

This writer has believed this ‘unconstitutional’ executive order would be defeated in court, and on Thursday January 23rd a federal judge

temporarily blocked this particular executive signed off by Trump, calling it “blatantly unconstitutional” during what is just the first hearing in a multi-state effort challenging the order.

Some of Trump’s other executive orders are already facing legal challenges; protesters have come out and will resist him and his acolytes. Among the bravest is Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, who led the post-inauguration interfaith prayer service, attended by Trump , the VP, and their wives. In a steady voice she asked the president to have mercy on migrants and on gay, lesbian and transgender people. Trump looked menacing. He has since branded the bishop “nasty”. In this ‘democracy’, which purports to lead the free world, the leader expects to be revered, always and by all...

We recycle 4.5m. plastic and aluminium in just one year

The people of Kilkenny have recycled over 4.5 million aluminium cans and plastic bottles in just one year through the Return scheme.

According to SuperValu and Centra, their stores alone have facilitated the recycling of an amount

Carey back in court to face 46 new charges

Former Ireland hockey international Catriona Carey has been charged with multiple counts of breaching company law.

The financial and business adviser, who is already accused of possession of crime proceeds following a fraud investigation, had 46 fresh charges brought against her in the last week.

The former international hockey star is facing trial and was remanded on bail for the preparation of a book of evidence.

The 46-year-old is charged with providing false information about five firms to the Companies Registration Office (CRO).

She is also accused of failing to keep proper records and failing to provide the CRO with financial returns or notify the office of a change of address.

The offences are alleged to have happened on dates between 2019 and 2022.

The accused, from Kilkenny, but with an address at Roch-

fort Manor, Graiguecullen, Co Carlow, appeared before Dublin District Court after she went to Gardaí by arrangement to be charged.

The DPP directed trial on indictment and he sought an adjournment to Friday, February 14 for the preparation of a book of evidence.

Defence solicitor Colleen Gildernew said Ms Carey was "travelling quite a distance” from Carlow and asked to be excused from attending on the next date, when "there will be a more realistic time frame for how long everything is going to take”.

Judge Treasa Kelly granted bail in the accused's own bond of €500, with no cash lodgement required.

There were no Garda objections.

Under conditions, Ms Carey must continue to live at the address provided and notify Gardaí of any change.

Local forums ongoing for mental health

The HSE are continuing to work with people who use mental health services and with their family members, carers and supporters and are facilitating engagement forums in Co. Kilkenny.

The local forums are a resource for service users and family members, carers and supporters to voice their experiences, raise issues and be consulted and involved in mental health services developments in their area.

HSE Area Lead for Mental Health Engagement and Recovery Paul Fallon is encouraging people to participate: “The HSE wants to hear from people throughout Co. Kilkenny and to allow for their involvement in the planning, design, implementation and evaluation of mental health services.”

“The mental health forums, taking place in the HSE’s Kilken-

equivalent to 42 containers per person in Ireland during the first 12 months of the Deposit Return Scheme.

PET bottles can be recycled up to seven times through the Deposit Return Scheme, while aluminium cans can be infinitely re -

cycled. Collected from SuperValu and Centra stores at the end of each week, the containers are transported to a recycling facility in Limerick, where they are sorted by material and colour, with any waste removed from the system.

A total of 703 Reverse

Vending Machines (RVMs) have been installed in 560 SuperValu and Centra stores across all 26 counties of Ireland.

This makes it easier for communities to return containers and adopt more sustainable shopping habits.

As part of their commitment to sustainability, SuperValu and Centra have invested €28 million in Reverse Vending Machines across their store networks nationwide, reinforcing their efforts to build greener, more responsible communities.

The Heritage Council is now accepting applications from voluntary or community groups and not-for-profit non-governmental organisations in Kilkenny.

In 2024, the scheme funded St Canice's Cathedral and Round Tower [pictured above] to bring the 14th Century Red Book Of Ossory', written by Bishop Richard LeDrede, home to St Canice's and install an exhibition around it to enhance the learning and visitor experience.

It also supported Butler Gallery to begin the next phase of digitisation of the Butler Gallery Collection for full accessibility on its website.

Ionad Lachtain in Freshford also received funding to provide workshops in traditional skills and biodiversity actions to enable commu-

ny Involvement Centre, are established to bring together the experiences of people who access/ have accessed the mental health services, their family members and supporters and also people who work in the mental health services. Together we can discuss challenges and successes. Meetings are monthly and last for 60-90 minutes.”

Taking place on the second Wednesday of each month at 2pm, the upcoming programme of forum meetings in Kilkenny are in the Involvement Centre, Colliers Lane, Kilkenny (R95 EC8E), at 2pm each Wednesday on February 12, March 12, April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, August 13, September 10, October 8, November 12 and on December10.

*Details on how to register on (086) 781 2951 or e-mail: SEMHForum@hse.ie

Time, again, to consider our heritage

nity stewardship.

A broad range of project types are eligible for funding under the scheme including:

• Conservation works to collections, objects or places, including natural heritage projects e.g. control of invasive species or habitat restoration works; conservation works to buildings, including churches; stabilisation works to ruined structures;

• Surveys, reports, plans, and audits to inform the future management of buildings and monuments, habitats, collections, or objects.

• Accessibility projects that make heritage activities more accessible for people with disabilities e.g. building ramps, automatic doors, handrails, tactile interpretation

• Projects that help people

engage more with their heritage e.g. interactive maps, videos, virtual exhibitions, podcasts, websites

• Purchase of specialised equipment e.g archival boxing for vulnerable documents, monitoring equipment for humidity or light, interpretation/multimedia equipment, specialised software

• Projects that address the heritage of minority groups e.g an oral history project documenting Traveller heritage

• Training in traditional skills and crafts e.g. workshops on skills such as roofing, thatch, dry stone walling etc.

• Citizen science projects on environmental conservation

The minimum grant that can be requested through the scheme is €500. The

maximum is €25,000.

The variety of applicants who successfully secured funding in 2024 demonstrates the positive impact the scheme has across the heritage spectrum.

A full overview of eligibility criteria and other relevant details are available from the Heritage Council’s website at https://www. heritagecouncil.ie/funding/ community-heritage-grantscheme-2

The closing date for applications is Friday, March 14 at 11pm. Applications must be made via the Heritage Council’s online grants management system. Funded projects must be completed by November 14, 2025.

* See https://www.heritagecouncil.ie/funding/ community-heritagegrant-scheme-2

Free fresh food for thousands of pupils

Tesco Ireland has announced a groundbreaking partnership with An Post as the new logistics provider for its Stronger Starts Food programme. This innovative collaboration sees An Post deliver thousands of Tesco Stronger Starts Food packs to 240 DEIS primary schools nationwide every week.

The free packs, received by thousands of children, contain a nutritious mix of seasonal fresh fruit and vegetables including apples, onions, potatoes, and carrots.

This first-of-its-kind partnership leverages An Post's

extensive nationwide distribution and delivery network to ensure children across Ireland have access to free nutritious food, supporting their health and well-being. By integrating the delivery of Stronger Starts Food packs with An Post's existing deliveries, the initiative has helped Tesco to achieve a significant reduction in carbon emissions associated with the programme.

"Tesco’s work with An Post brings fresh, healthy food to Deis primary schools across Ireland at a very local community level, helping children who need it most to have a

stronger start in life," said Tesco Ireland Communications Director Rosemary Garth. "This collaboration not only supports children’s health but also aligns with An Post and Tesco’s shared commitment to sustainability and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)."

The collaboration between An Post and Tesco is a leading example of how partnerships between public agencies and the private sector can drive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Both organisations have previously been recog-

nised as SDG Champions by the Irish Government and continue to serve as SDG ambassadors, showcasing their dedication to achieving social, economic, and environmental targets.

“We are thrilled to partner with Tesco on this important initiative,” said Managing Director of Mail and Parcels at An Post, Garrett Bridgeman. “By utilising our existing delivery routes, fleet and expertise, we will minimise the environmental impact of the Stronger Starts programme, demonstrating our commitment to sustainability and innovation.”

As I See It Marianne

Heron

Let’s hear it for SMEs, our biggest employers

Small they may be, but Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy. Like physical spines they support the country, providing more than two thirds, yet they don’t get much coverage, and, when they do, the focus is often on their struggle to survive and grow.

Like all of us, SMEs have been battling with rising costs. Other challenges include difficulty in accessing finance, regulatory red tape, difficulty in recruiting and retaining staff and hurdles like Brexit.

Pleas for a reduction in the 13.5% Vat rate on hospitality and retail weren’t answered in the last Budget. Key areas for SMEs – companies employing under 250 staff and with turnovers under €50m. – are technology, food, beverages and tourism.

Starting out on your own as the founder of a fledgling business can be a daunting challenge. Founders aren’t alone

though, Enterprise Ireland is there in a hand-holding capacity, facilitating business to start ups with supports from start your own business courses to mentorship and grants to grow and maybe go global.

The Entrepreneurship Growth Plan was initiated in 2021 – a kind of national Fairy Godmother – with a longterm vision for the SME sector. The blueprint involves initiatives, to increase export activity, digitisation, cluster hubs to promote networking and climate change initiatives. IBEC, where 90% 0f their membership are SMEs, have called for a competitiveness charter for founders of businesses, with support for research and development, sustainability measures and initiatives to unlock talent via a national training voucher scheme.

Plenty of help and helpful ideas there, but how does it work out in practice?

Kilkenny has a strong culture of entrepreneurship with 250 members of the Chamber of Commerce. Minda Client, which represented Kilkenny at the National Enterprise Awards last year, is a happy example of entrepreneurship.

A software company offering client management systems, Minda Client was started from the homes of business partners Brian Kelly and Robert Downes 21 years ago. The business has grown from a start, providing management systems for primary schools. to a present where the partnership works with colleges, further education facilities and sells systems for managing scholarship grants in 10 different countries.

Looking back Brian Kelly remembers starting out and then exporting, searching for niche markets against global competition, as two of the most challenging times for the business.

“Starting out with a partner

is easier though, two heads being better than with one. There’s a lot of compliance which adds to the burden, particularly at start up if you are not an administrator.”

“Starting out on your own can be a daunting challenge...

Technology has made a big difference to exporting where it’s no longer necessary to travel to a country like Australia to do business. Since the VAT rate increased from 9 to 13.5% almost 600 restaurants have gone out of business. Happily, Thomas Clarke’s popular Fig Tree Restaurant on Kilkenny High Street, offering breakfast and lunch with 15 employees, is not one of them. “Profit margins in the food industry are tight, you can only charge so much for a cup of coffee,” says Thomas. His restaurant relies on tourism in addition to loyal, local customers.” There have been a lot of price increases since Covid. Most of the profits I make go to the Government, between VAT, PRSI, the increase in minimum wage and extra holidays – and electricity has gone through the roof.” Businesses have to make profits, he points out, in order to replace equipment and

renovate.

Goatsbridge Trout is an example of a thriving business. Building on a tradition begun by the monks at Jerpoint Abbey, Mags and Ger Kirwan are the second generation to farm rainbow trout in the clear waters of the Little Arrigle River. Their product range, including fresh and smoked trout and smoked trout caviar is sold at their shop and exported mainly to the UK, France, and Dubai and they have the US market in their sights. Between the trout farm in Co. Kilkenny and their hatchery in Co. Wicklow they have around 40 employees. “It’s an exciting time. We are investing in infrastructure and modernising for sustainability,” says Mags. “The biggest challenge is to try and find people who want to work in the industry. We really believe in what we are doing and we are ploughing ahead on a journey and loving every minute of it.”

Brighten your day with Vitamin D

Do I need to take Vitamin D in February is a common question. Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin,” It is produced by the body in response to sunlight exposure. And it is too early in the year for us to be getting any sun. So, when I get asked this, I say yes, as it is crucial for maintaining overall health and wellbeing.

Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and for the prevention of rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults. By improving calcium absorption, Vitamin D supports bone density and strength.

There’s evidence suggest-

ing that Vitamin D can help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to mood disorders, including seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It also plays a role in helping to regulate blood pressure and helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

And most importantly adequate Vitamin D levels help support the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency can include fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, and frequent infections.

Top source of Vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight, food sources include fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and mushrooms.

If you want to top up on Vitamin D then BetterYou Vitamin D range of Oral Spray

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CLAIR WHITTY

SPECIAL REPORT

Housing and rents

Pledge to see 300,000 homes built by the end of 2030, including 12,000 social houses, while Help To Buy and First Home schemes are to be retained and expanded.

Aiming to boost local authority home loan scheme to allow a separated or divorced person buy a full mortgage, while a range of measures aimed at tackling vacancy and dereliction promised.

Promising to increase renters tax credit progressively, while Land Development Agency to be further capitalised.

A register of rental prices planned to protect tenants and landlords from abusive practices and amulti-annual plan is to be developed to ‘urgently’ deliver new student accommodation.

Education

Pledging to cut the pupil teacher ratio to 19:1 in primary schools over the lifetime of the Government, while aiming to ensure schools are “smartphonefree zones” and to continue to expand and improve the Free Hot School Meals programme.

Provision of after-school and childcare in school buildings and campuses to be expanded in tandem with the school building programme, while aiming to expand school transport service to include 100,000 additional students by 2030.

Free period products is to be provided in schools “to ensure no student is held back due to period poverty”

Teaching and learning methods are to be improved, especially as schools adapt to digital learning and AI.

Higher education

CAO system is to be expanded to include more apprenticeship options, while free part-time courses are to be expanded as well as the number of third-level pathways outside the Leaving Cert. points system.

A new five-year apprenticeship action plan for 2026-2030 is to be developed.

The Government promises to increase maintenance grants and reform SUSI, as well as examining a placement grant for students on mandatory placements.

Parents and children

Cost of childcare to be “progressively reduced” to €200 a month a child through the National Childcare Scheme, and also explore options to cap childcare costs for larger families. A managed savings account for newborns is to be explored, with initial once-off State contribution. Paid surrogacy leave to be introduced.

What the new Government is promising to deliver

The ‘early establishment’ of the Assisted Human Reproduction Regulatory Authority, a body that will oversee and regulate assisted human reproduction.

Provision for newborns and parents of a baby bundle – comprising essential items – is to be expanded

Breastfeeding support to be enhanced through a strategy with funding for community initiatives and more lactation consultants in hospitals.

A child poverty target is to be set, ensuring a focus on inequality.

Carers

A pledge to phase out the means test for carers over the next five years, with a plan to “signicantly increase” income disregards for carer’s allowance in each Budget.

Parents aged over 66 who are caring for children with lifelong disabilities will retain the rate at which they are paid their carer’s allowance, while concurrently receiving the State pension.

Promised is improvised support to those providing full-time care and attention to more than one person is to be examined, while the introduction of a pay-related carer’s benefit for individuals who have to give up work suddenly to provide fulltime care to a loved one.

Health

A commitment to open new National Children’s Hospital, and build new National Maternity Hospital, but no dates set, and a promise to increase number of GPs and bring forward a new, modern GP contract.

Hospital bed capacity is to be increased by between 4,000 and 4,500 new and refurbished beds while intensive care bed capacity to be increased by at least a further 100 beds

There is also a promise to reduce hospital waiting times so all patients are seen within 10 to 12 weeks, with a reduction in emergency department overcrowding also promised.

A “health-led approach to drug addiction” with a plan to divert those found in possession of drugs for personal use to health services.

Free GP services are to be extended to children up to at least 12 years. And a commitment to maintaining a Paediatric Spinal Surgery Management Unit.

Mental health

A promised regulation of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) including measures to attract and retain staff, and a new workforce plan to address immediate staffing shortages and longer-term needs.

A focus on smoother tran-

sitions from CAMHS to adult mental health services is promised, with the number of perinatal mental health midwife posts to increase and mental health supports in maternity hospitals following trauma events connected to pregnancy and childbirth

Emissions

A commitment to continue with annual increases in carbon tax rate to 2030

A commitment to accelerate the electrification of the transport system, including electric bikes, electric vehicles, and electric public transport, and to develop decarbonised zones in urban areas, with focus on pedestrianisation and cycling facilities

A promise to increase number of publicly available electric car charging points, and a bike-to-work scheme to be reviewed to boost uptake by workers. There will be new measures and supports to help people in event of extreme weather.

Consideration is to be given to allow owners of older houses using oil boilers to switch to sustainable biofuels.

Security and justice Security force, with similar powers to the Airport Police, are to be established for public transport.

There are initiatives to promote recruitment and retention of women in Defence Forces and Gardaí, with the recruitment of 5,000 additional Gardaí.

Facial recognition technology is to be introduced for serious crimes and missing person cases, and an expansion of body cams to all frontline Gardaí.

The use of facial coverings at protests is to be banned as well as protests outside private homes.

New road safety cameras that automatically detect motorists using phones while driving and not wearing seatbelts are to be introduced.

There is a commitment to free up Gardaí from court hearings for road traffic offences. Graduated penalty points system are to be reviewed.

Responsibility for international protection accommodation and integration is to fall under the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

Finally, maximum sentences for offences relating to child sexual abuse are to be reviewed.

Arts and culture

Plans to redevelop GPO as historic landmark and to establish Irish town of culture are promised, and to look at the basic income for the arts’ pilot to maximise impact.

Maintaining and growing funding for the Arts Council and Culture Ireland is promised and the introduction of a ‘culture card’ for 16 and 17- year-olds Pledges to support and develop the nighttime economy and enact legislation to update licensing laws is in the pipeline.

Work

and jobs

There is a ledge to introduce new working age payment to ensure people on jobseeker payments always see increase in income when working or taking on extra hours

Digital

There are pledges to tackle scam text messages by examining feasibility of implementing an SMS scam filter, with a commitment to work with stakeholders to tackle algorithms that push harmful content into the feeds of social media users, and to examine ways to enforce age verification obligations on online service providers

Finally, a promise to ensure skills necessary for AI deployment, AI innovation and AI support are provided through education and professional learning networks.

The agri-sector was reported on in last week’s edition

Opinion

Why Irish in two minds about the role of AI Your Money & You

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming business, creating excitement and anxiety about the future of work. While some fear AI will replace jobs, others see it as a tool for greater productivity and creating new career opportunities. Two recent reports, however, paint contrasting pictures of how AI is perceived in Ireland — particularly among young adults and working professionals.

A study conducted by Chadwicks Group, Ireland’s leading builders’ merchants, reveals that six out of 10 (61%) young adults aged 16 to 24 are worried about AI’s impact on job opportunities. An even higher number, 75%, say they would prefer to pursue careers that AI cannot easily replace, such as medicine, teaching, and skilled trades like construction.

Parents share their concerns. Almost three in four (73%) parents would prefer their children to pursue careers deemed ‘AI-proof’,

John Ellis

with 48% highlighting skilled trades as a secure option.

Their worries extend beyond employment availability; 22% fear AI will hold back young people’s ability to generate original ideas, while 18% believe it will stifle creativity.

Chadwicks Group CEO Patrick Atkinson believes this anxiety presents an opportunity to promote skilled trades as a viable, secure career path.

“Tradespeople are the backbone of our economy, building the homes, schools, and infrastructure that our society depends on,” he said.

While young adults and their parents express significant concern, another study, conducted by marketing services group Core, suggests that the majority (60%) of workers in Ireland are not worried about AI replacing their jobs. This apparent contradiction highlights differences in AI literacy and perception across age groups.

The Core report, titled ‘Is Ireland Ready for AI?’, found

that 58% of Irish adults had little or no understanding of AI, with younger people (18–35) being the most informed. Among this group, 37% claim to understand AI “a fair amount”, while 22% say they know “a great deal”, which may explain why younger adults are also more apprehensive about its impact on jobs.

Lisa Dunn, director at Core

and author of the report, believes that older generations’ relative lack of AI knowledge contributes to their lower levels of concern. “It could be a lack of understanding or complacency as they near retirement and feel AI will not affect them,” she noted. Both reports agree that repetitive and task-oriented roles are most vulnerable to AI-driven automation. Ac-

cording to Core’s research, industries such as customer service, data entry, and some technical roles are already using AI. Chatbots and automated assistants have become common in customer service, and companies are increasingly adopting AI for greater efficiency.

However, when it comes to professions “requiring critical thinking, human interaction, and ethical judgment”, AI is not seen as a major threat.

The Core report states that only 15% of people believe AI will replace journalism, and only 6% think it could take over medical roles.

Despite concerns, AI is not universally viewed as a negative force. Among those who claim to have a “fair understanding” of AI, optimism about its future rises to 38%, compared to 36% who remain pessimistic suggesting that greater awareness and education about AI’s capabilities and limitations could help alleviate some

concerns.

AI is here to stay, and individuals, businesses, and policymakers must adapt accordingly. Young people, need to develop skills that complement AI, rather than compete with it. Schools and universities can play a vital role by integrating AI education into curricula, ensuring that students understand both its risks and opportunities. Businesses, too, rather than seeing AI as a job eliminator, should focus on reskilling employees and introduce AI to enhance productivity. The Government could also help by providing training programmes and policies that protect workers while embracing technological advancement.

The coming years will determine whether AI becomes a threat, or an opportunity and that decision lies in how we choose to prepare for it today.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

– are we all playing our part?

"Do either of you know when the next storm is due"

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

1920 was a black year for Kilkenny. As autumn leaves fell, a sinister new force arrived in the county to quell the tide of nationalism. A spate of IRA ambushes had demonstrated the capacity and willingness of the rebel army to resist the forces of occupation countywide.

On September 17th, the dreaded Black and Tans drove menacingly through the City. They were dressed for combat, with machine guns mounted on their lorries. As they drove past bemused citizens, the Tans shouted abuse and one officer mockingly waved a captured Irish tri-colour, the flag of the Republic, alongside a placard that said: “This rag was taken from rebel bastards.”

To make their presence felt, and strike fear into the hearts of would-be insurrectionists, the black and khaki clad troops sprayed machine gun fire over the heads of people on the sidewalks. Panic-stricken women and children ran for cover, while some of the men returned insult for insult.

Brave Dunnamaggin and Ned Egan’s pub

A few days later, The Tans drove into Thomastown, with two bound and gagged prisoners on a lorry, their heads covered with sacks. This was part of a psychological war waged by the British to sap enemy morale. But it had the opposite effect, creating a deeper resentment in the county and fanning the flames of rebellion.

The Tans arrive in Kilkenny

Republican tradition. To the Tans, the village was like a red rag to a bull. Information about a plan by the local IRA Company to attack Kilmoganny Courthouse had leaked to the British. The Tans responded by raiding a pub owned by Ned Egan of Baurscoobe, the Dunnamaggin IRA’s intelligence officer. Several IRA members were present when a loud banging on the door startled them.

Dunnamaggin had a proud

Among the volunteers were Denis Treacy, Pat Mulrooney,

Robert Cody, Pat Holden, and Pat Walsh. Luckily for them the Tans were unaware of their involvement in the guerrilla war.

Even so, they had to endure some rough treatment. The Tans used rope and the strings of Mrs. Egan’s violin to tie them up. The house and pub were guarded while other troops headed for Kilmoganny to protect the Courthouse. The Tans wrecked Ned Egan’s pub, drinking what they could and smashing every bottle that remained. (Incidentally, this publican man was the father of poet/writer Ned Egan who died a few months ago. He wrote some lovely articles for the Kilkenny Observer.)

Next morning, they dragged the men- who were still tied up- out of the pub and took them to Baurscoobe Cross. Drunk and swearing, the Tans sped off down the road, leaving the men to untie themselves.

On October 25th, the Tricolour flew at half-mast over City Hall as a tribute to Terrance McSweeney, the Lord Mayor of Cork who had died on hunger strike. Infuriated by this gesture, the Tans stormed into the hall and removed the flag. To add insult to injury, they paraded through the city streets playing “Rule Britannia” on mouth organs.

On November 20th, the Tans moved into the Kilkenny vil-

lage of Hugginstown where the local police station had been attacked a few months earlier.

They raided the home of Joe Halloran and demanded to know where his two rebel sons were. Not getting any answers, they blinded-folded Joe and his other son, Josie, and performed a mock execution on them outside the house.

They returned a week later to repeat the harassment and ransacked the Jackman home in a search for rebels. Two pubs in Hugginstown, Clearys and Holdens, were also raided.

On the lighter side, there were some touching acts of defiance. In Inistioge, eightyear-old Ned Brennan was humming a song to himself in a pub along with a few adults when a group of Tans barged in. Hearing his musical voice, a Tan officer raised Ned up and put him sitting on the bar counter. Sing US a song, young fellow! he challenged.

Young Ned obliged, but the song he offered was not to their liking: He gave them a rousing chorus of “Wrap the Green Flag Round Me Boys! delighting the other drinkers in the pub and making the Tans see red. They smashed up the pub and made off with a plentiful of whiskey and porter.

Ned Brennan, better known in his later years as the “The Wedger”, was at one point voted the most popular man in Inistioge and elected “Mayor” of the village.

Susie Bowers and the Lewis gun …

In Callan, another colourful person, who probably never met or heard of Ned, was lucky to escape with her

life after her defiance of the Tans. Susie Bowers worked at a shop in West Street for a Mrs. Griffin and could never resist the temptation to annoy and taunt the soldiers as they hung around the street near the shop.

Susie was a flamboyant character. She dressed in red from head to foot, except for her snow-white shoes, and took a serious dislike to the sourfaced men in dark uniforms who wanted to tell the locals how to live their lives.

One morning, she was cleaning the upstairs bedroom window of Mrs. Griffin’s house when she spotted a dozen or more Tans lounging about on the other side of the street. They were partly obscured from her vision by a horsedrawn cart packed with a consignment of colm, a cheap coal substitute. Mrs. Griffin cautioned her not to say anything offensive to them.

But Susie opened the window and commenced to shout every insulting word she could think of, and possibly a few more she made up herself. She must have hit a raw nerve somewhere, because the Tans opened fire on the house with a Lewis gun and rifles, shattering the bedroom windows, riddling the walls and the load of colm with bullets, and sending the two women-who anticipated such a responsescurrying for cover under the bed.

After the firing subsided and the Tans went away, Mrs Griffin rose to her feet in a cloud of dust and a room full of broken glass and said: “Susie, please, don’t EVER do that again!” (To be continued…)

Ned Brennan of Inistioge better known as The Wedger

Black and Tans in a village square

Kilkenny in early 20th century

In America in 1878, John Harvey Kellogg and his brother, Will Keith, built something called the Battle Creek Sanitarium. It was once a worldfamous medical centre, spa, and grand hotel, attracting the wealthy and preeminent celebrities of its day.

While Will helped run the sanitarium before starting the now multi-billion-dollar Kellogg cereal company, John went on to become one of America’s most popular physicians and bestselling authors. The advice dispensed by John in his books, lectures, and Good Health magazine was followed by millions, and in 1921, his research on digestion and diet was nominated for a Nobel Prize. But amid his brilliance was also folly. He was on a self-appointed, messiah-like mission from God to make the world healthier and was derided by colleagues for his grandiose personality. Many of his ideas blended medical concepts with Seventh-day Adventist Christian beliefs on health reform. The result was a philosophy that natural, wholesome living combined with faith in God made the best medicine.

The term wellness wasn’t even around yet. Instead, to obtain the lifestyle he idealised, John prescribed the precursor to wellness — what he called biologic living. It meant striving for health in mind, body, and spirit to prevent illness, but doing so with three panaceas: physical exercise, adequate sleep, and a diet replete with fruits, grains, vegetables, and milk. Literally every health condition could be treated with that recipe. He warned patients against sedentary lifestyles, meat, sugar, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, sex, and obesity—the latter of which was considered both a slight against physical attractiveness and a health hazard.

According to medical historian Howard Markel, John Kellogg was obsessed with cleanliness and virtuous eating. He believed that digestion could be aided by chewing food to oblivion and would guide his dinner guests in a round of The Chewing Song, with the chorus beginning, “Chew, chew, chew, that is the thing to do”. He also told his patients they should have four or five odourless bowel movements a day. John was developing and promoting his ideas at the dawn of modern medicine in North America. Something called the Flexner Report of 1910 ushered in this era. The book-length report written by Abraham Flexner embraced rigorous science and its advancement as the new ethos of health care.

By the time John died in 1943, modern medicine was an entrenched scientific enterprise. But the aftermath of the Flexner Report left something to be desired. As Thomas Duffy, a professor at the Yale School of Medicine, put it, the hyperfocus on excellence in science was not well balanced by a comparable push for excellence in clinical

healthcare provider, the latter makes you a [scam artist].” Cohen also reminds us that “health is not a moral virtue”. It’s damaging when we hear disparaging comments about “lazy” people who “pop pills” and who use medication as a substitute for the hard work of eating “clean” and exercising. These views especially apply to the nature and treatment of mental illness. Stigma festers and grows in the minds of those who unwittingly internalize the idea that mental illness is a sign of weakness or that taking medication is a personal failing.

The modern wellness industry inherited John’s and Bernarr’s moralising attitudes toward health. Other historical and cultural threads too wove together to create the juggernaut of an industry that we see today.

How top breakfast cereal gave birth to wellness industry

care. In other words, some physicians became coldly distanced from patients in a way that allowed nurses and alternative medicine practitioners to step in and fulfill the warm art of listening, comforting, and humanising. In parallel with John’s widespread promotion of biologic living, a man equally eccentric named Bernarr Macfadden was becoming the 20th century’s first celebrity health influencer. He made millions selling Americans a bill of health that consisted of fit-

ness, fasting as a cure-all, and hostility to medical science. Staunchly opposed to vaccination, he would strut around New York barefoot so his soles could absorb the Earth’s energy, and he slept on the floor so his blood flow would align with its natural magnetic rhythm.

In 1899, Bernarr launched Physical Culture magazine, an assortment of articles about health advice alongside photos depicting scantily clad people (often him) showing off their physique. The maga-

zine was a hit, leading to a New York-based publishing empire, and cementing Bernarr as an acclaimed health guru who sold the idea that “a person could exercise unqualified control over virtually all types of disease” given the willpower to live righteously. Professor Michelle Cohen has written about the legacies of John and Bernarr. “They were two of the most important health promoters of the 20th century and their influence continues into our time,” she says. “They brought

19th-century ideas of health moralism into a new era of mass marketing and celebrity culture, championing the fantasy that your health could be controlled with a virtuous lifestyle.”

Eating nutritiously and exercising regularly certainly matter for all aspects of health, including mental health and illness. But as Cohen brilliantly articulates: “There’s a huge difference between lifestyle counselling and selling a cureall based on lifestyle change. The former makes you a

The fallout from the Flexner Report lingered into the advent of the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 1970s. These two social forces synergized anti-medical establishment societal attitudes that propelled patients into the welcoming hands of alternative medicine. Simultaneously, in late-20th-century North America, people were increasingly identifying as consumers and demanding a wide range of choice whenever they spent money. This catalyzed a shopping cart approach to health care that magnified the role our own behaviors play in molding our health and led people to downplay the role of genetics and social factors, including plain old bad luck.

Sixteen years following John’s death and four years after Bernarr’s, the term wellness, as we use it today, was born. That’s when the so-called father of the wellness movement, biostatistician Halbert L. Dunn, first used the term in the Canadian Journal of Public Health, in 1959. Reminiscent of the distinction between mental illness and mental health, Dunn distinguished between good health — freedom from illness — and high-level wellness, defined as “an integrated method of functioning which is oriented toward maximising the potential of which the individual is capable, within the environment where he is functioning”.

Dunn’s thoughtful definition didn’t stick. “Wellness” quickly took on a life of its own.

Nowadays in many parts of the worldestern world, wellness has sprouted on every corner. Across from your local coffee shop, you’ll see yoga and meditation classes interspersed with spa, weight loss, massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic clinics. Employee wellness programs offering subsidised gym memberships for work-life balance and mental health are a click away.

This article has been reproduced and adapted from Mind the Science: Saving Your Mental Health From The Wellness Industry by Jonathan N. Stea, PhD. Copyright © 2024. Available from Oxford University Press.

Nuuk, Greenland

The rugged landscapes and incredible wildlife of Greenland recently got a little more accessible, thanks to the opening of Nuuk International Airport. This revitalised aviation hub in Greenland’s capital is home to a 2,200-meter (7,217- foot) runway, allowing larger aircraft to land in the Arcticbased Danish territory for the first time.

The city is a great jumpingoff. point for exploring the rest of Greenland via boat or plane — from absorbing the culture of the local Inuit people at the Icefjord Centre in Ilulissat, to marvelling at icebergs and considering the impact of the climate crisis at Disko Bay. But Nuuk isn’t only a gateway to Greenland. City highlights include the history-filled National Museum and Archives, and the striking Sedna sculpture on the shoreline, a tribute to the Inuit Goddess of the Sea.

As Greenland’s visitor numbers grow, travellers can help embrace sustainable tourism practices by employing local guides — whether that’s for a locally run walking tour of the city, or to visit neighbouring Nuup Kangerlu, a vast fjord that offers humpback whale sightings amid gorgeous mountain surroundings.

The Ozarks, US Rugged terrain, waterfalls, river rapids, and caves — they’re not the kinds of geographical features folks usually expect in the southcentral US. But those features and more await visitors to the gorgeous Ozark Mountains of Arkansas and Missouri.

The region is best known for the Americana entertainment hub of Branson (including Dolly Parton’s Stampede) and the Silver Dollar City amusement park (with a new Spring Exposition festival in 2025 — and don’t miss the recently revamped, immersive Fire In The Hole family coaster). Those are great, for sure, but they’re just the start.

One of the Ozarks’ best-kept secrets is the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, a privately owned, paidentry nature and history reserve. One of its highlight attractions is Dogwood Canyon Nature Park in Lampe, Missouri. It holds fishing holes, historic chapels and bridges, biking and hiking trails plus a tram tour to visit free-roaming herds of elk and bison.

In Arkansas, Eureka Springs is a funky getaway with fun restaurants and places to stay, and it’s emerged as something of an oasis for the LGBTQ community. Go floating or fishing at Withow Spring State Park not far from the university town of Fayetteville. For a stunning drive, consider the Mount Magazine Scenic Byway.

Rabat, Morocco Marrakech, Essaouira, Fes, even Casablanca.... While

Yet, more places worth a visit in 2025

Morocco is perennially high on many people’s travel lists, one place that rarely features is Rabat, the modern capital. But all that looks set to change in 2025 with the new Four Seasons Hotel Rabat at Kasr al Bahr, which opened in October 2024, and the opening of the Royal Theatre, designed by the late, great architect Zaha Hadid. Countrywide, the tourism industry is recovering from the devastating earthquake that hit the Atlas Mountains in September 2023. There was a 20% increase in travellers to Morocco year-on-year in 2024 (from figures released in November), and 2025 looks to be even more successful.

Waldorf Astoria is another brand opening up its doors

— its 2025 Tangier property will be its first foray into the country.

For sports fans, the Africa Cup of Nations soccer tournament will take place in December — while the venues have not yet been announced it’ll be a proud moment for Morocco, whose national team became the first African squad to reach the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup, in 2022. Local tour operators like Inclusive Morocco will help you see the best of the country.

Romania

There aren’t many places left in Europe that still have that undiscovered vibe, but Romania comes close. That’s a gift in these days of

overtourism — for here’s a country that has everything, from the beach resorts of the Black Sea to the dropdead gorgeousness of the Carpathian Mountains, and is reputedly trying to grow visitor numbers sustainably. Yes, there’s the Dracula thing at Bran Castle, but for other gothic medieval treats in wider Transylvania and beyond, try Timișoara, Cluj Napoca, Sibiu, Brasov and Sebes. Capital Bucharest [pictured] has a charming Old Town, now a bit overloaded with tourist bars and restaurants, but the city’s recent history is still a major draw. The jaw-dropping excess of communist-era dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu’s luxurious former home

(Mexico City, Guadalajara), the resorts (Cabo, Cozumel) and the expat hangs (San Miguel de Allende, Lake Chapala), you might want to visit a different kind of Mexico. That’s where San Francisco de Campeche comes in.

The capital of Campeche state, this harbour city of about 250,000 is located on the western side of the verdant Yucatán Peninsula. Campeche is one of just two states in Mexico with a globally recognised top safety rating, and the city occupies that sweet spot of having some tourism infrastructure without being ‘discovered’ yet.

Seafood lovers should appreciate offerings such as pompano in tin foil, Pan de Cazón (Dogfish Bread) and various shrimp dishes that have a Caribbean flair. Architecture and history enthusiasts will be enthused — the old walled Historic Fortified Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bastions (fortifications) and colonial churches abound. In the outdoors, the beaches of nearby Sihoplaya and Seybaplaya and the cenotes (freshwater sinkholes) make for splashy fun. And don’t miss the Mayan ruins and tropical forests at Calakmul. Getting around the city might be easier in 2025 if the light rail system goes into operation in April as planned.

Sierra Leone

This English-speaking West African country has plenty to offer those adventurous enough to make the trip, although getting there isn’t easy. There are connections via Brussels and Casablanca, but new airline Air Sierra Leone has yet to deliver direct flights to London promised for late 2024.

and his vast Palace of the Parliament (the world’s heaviest building) are worth exploring.

They contrast with the extreme hardships he forced on the country’s people, charted in the diminutive but essential Museum of Communism. A more idyllic past can still be found in the Romanian countryside. There’s probably no better way to explore this than the recently launched Via Transilvanica, an 870-mile (1,400-kilometre) hiking trail through rural landscapes and villages seemingly frozen in time.

San Francisco de Campeche, Mexico If you’ve done the big cities

Tourism is still in its early stages 20 years on from civil war and a decade after a major Ebola outbreak. That means a county unspoiled by excessive visitors and still rough around the edges. Beaches like those at the Turtle Islands, Bureh and River Number Two have crystal waters and white or golden sands. Capital Freetown has markets, museums and, in the ruins of Bunce Island, a poignant tribute to the victims of the slave trade who passed through. Inland rainforests offer hiking and chimpanzee encounters.

“Sierra Leone is hands down one of the safest and friendliest countries in Africa,” says travel blogger Helen Davies, AKA Helen in Wonderland, just back from leading a tour in the country. “The people here are just beautiful, with an energy that’s warm, welcoming and absolutely infectious. The country is rugged, raw, and unapologetically real, and that’s exactly what makes it the perfect place for an intrepid tourist.”

Series concluded

Rudolph Valentino – valentine to millions of women! Furthermore Gerry Moran

So, who are the male, Hollywood heart-throbs of today? I honestly don’t know and don’t care. But whoever they are – they cannot hold a candle to the greatest Hollywood heart-throb of all time – RudolphValentino. His full name was Rodolfo Alfonzo Raffaelo Pierre Filibert Gugliemi di Valentina D’Antonguolla. A mouthful for sure. Yet within five short years Rudolf Valentino would dominate silent movies and fuel the fantasies of women all over the world.

Born in 1895 in the Italian town of Castellaneta, Valentino was a wild youth whose escapades frequently found him locked out of his home and occasionally locked up in jail. He failed to gain admission to a naval academy and set off for Paris where he begged on the streets to keep body and soul together.

In 1913 Valentino arrived in New York aged 18. Penniless, with no English, his only

asset was his suave Italian charm which he put to use as a dancing partner for unescorted ladies at Manhattan cabarets.

Valentino’s big break came in 1921 when he landed a role in The Four Horsemen Of The Apocalypse which was a huge success.

Valentino was now 26. By the time of his death at 31 he would complete 14 films and become the Screen Lover of the 1920s – a meteoric rise

to fame by Hollywood standards.

Valentino, however, wasn’t an empty-headed screen idol. At the height of his wealth and fame he collected rare books, was a talented linguist, an accomplished horseman and wrote a book of poems entitled Daydreams. Married twice, he narrowly escaped arrest for bigamy, as his first marriage was not dissolved before he wed the second Mrs Valentino. Valentino was

about to marry for a third time when he died of a ruptured appendix on August 23, 1926 in New York.

The events that claimed his life began on Saturday, August 14, 1926 while he was resting at New York’s Hotel Ambassador. Valentino felt sudden pain in his stomach, fell to the floor in agony but refused, however, to go to a hospital.

When his temperature soared the next day he was taken to hospital; unfortunately Valentino’s appendix had ruptured and infection spread rapidly throughout his system.

When it was announced that he might not recover mass hysteria ensued. Women, teenagers and adults, wept openly while hundreds promised to kill themselves if Valentino died.

The hospital issued press releases hourly. For eight days suspense built as the public fed on bulletins alternating between hope and despair.

On August 23 RudolphValen-

tino, the world’s great lover, died – struck down at the height of his fame. The public viewing of his body on August 24 caused pandemonium.

The New York Times reported that “the rioting was without precedent”. Fearing souvenir hunters might strip the corpse of clothes and jewellery, the funeral director ordered the bronze casket closed; the crowd stripped the funeral home instead.

The second day his body lay in state, similar rioting took place on the streets of New York. The crowd numbered around 50,000. Most of these were screaming, crying women, young and old. People were pushed and trampled on, shop windows were smashed and cars were overturned!

Rudolph Valentino’s death had repercussions worldwide. A British actress, clutching a batch of love poetry she had written about Valentino, took a lethal dose of poison.

A New York housewife fatally shot herself while cradling a collection of Valentino photos to her breast. In Japan two forlorn fans leaped into a volcano. In Italy, Mussolini, appealed to women to pray for the great idol but not to attempt to join him.

For years after Valentino’s demise a mysterious ‘Lady in Black’ laid a red rose on his grave on the anniversary of his death. In the 1950s this lady revealed her identity. A musician called Ditra Flame, she explained how, at 14 years of age, Valentino had visited her in hospital when she was gravely ill. Valentino promised her that if she died he would place a rose on her grave every day.

She lived, he died and she placed a rose on his grave every anniversary of his death.

Can’t imagine anything like that happening with the demise of any of our presentday Hollywood heart-throbs.

The Last Word Pat Coughlan

Teddy Bears: cuddly pacifists or plush propagandists?

Growing up, my teddy was more than just stuffing and stitches — it was my sidekick, confidant, and mate through my young life’s wee hiccups. Facing up to shadows in the night or exploring the wild jungles of my imagination, my teddy had my back. It was like having a trusty pal who never let you down. As an adult, I’ve realised that teddy wasn’t just a soft toy; it was a comforting presence in turbulent times.

Now, it’s a lovely reminder of simpler days, a soft embrace of nostalgia when life gets a little too serious. Yes, teddy’s still working its magic!

Who would’ve thought of teddy bear restorers? Welcome to the magical world of Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell, the ‘Bear Ladies’ on the BBC’s The Repair Shop. They transform bedraggled teddies, giving them a new lease on life. It’s not just sewing holes or replacing eyes; it’s about restoring cherished memories. Many of us can recall that one cuddly toy. For

some, their beloved stuffed companion has endured battles — tattered ears, threadbare bellies. The Bear Ladies expertly restore these emotional threads.

Have you ever thought of teddy bears as agents of diplomacy rather than just cosy companions? During my childhood my teddy could do anything but that was in my imagination. What about the real world? A peculiar idea, isn’t it? These comforting bundles, adored since childhood, might have more influence than we think.

Across cultures, they’ve quietly witnessed political affairs and served as covert peacemakers. In 2009, during a visit to Russia, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton gifted a teddy bear to Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov as a goodwill gesture. Similarly, during tense Japan-China relations in 2014, Japan presented a limitededition teddy, symbolising cultural appreciation. Such instances show teddy bears

can promote friendship and ease tensions, hinting at their diplomatic influence.

Surprisingly, teddy bears have appeared at serious political gatherings. For example, during a Geneva peace summit, plush toys on

the negotiation table diffused tension, encouraging relaxed dialogue or so claimed an article (2019) entitled ‘Diplomatic Détente: The Unexpected Role of Soft Toys in Tranquil Dialogues’ published by the International Journal of Peace

Call for submissions

Studies.

According to an article entitled ‘The Soft Power of Plush: How Stuffed Animals Soothe Savage Talks’, published in the Journal Of Diplomatic History, at a bilateral trade meeting between adversarial nations,

exchanging a small stuffed animal softened the atmosphere among delegates. Their presence conveys, “Let’s swap smiles instead of frowns, shall we?” Research shows gifts, like plush toys, can ease tensions and promote goodwill. All of this was told to me by my teddy bear. It could be true I’m not that well-read.

President Obama received a teddy bear from a Malaysian girl during a diplomatic visit, facilitating goodwill. Clearly, soft and cuddly, plush toys hold a unique power in international diplomacy, proving more significant than they appear.

So, are they just cuddly pacifists or sneaky plush propagandists? From what I’ve gathered, these fluffy fellas have a knack for softening the hardest of hearts, whether it’s in a playroom or a peace summit. Who knew a simple teddy could wield such influence? I did. We all did. Our Teddy Bear could be anything we wanted it to be...

Kilkenny County Council

Arts Office is delighted to announce the annual call for submissions for the twenty-fifth issue of the Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet. This year is special as we celebrate 25 years of publications. To mark this milestone, the broadsheet will feature 25 poems, one for each year of publication.

The Arts Office is busily planning an exciting launch to highlight the rich history and vibrant future of poetry in Kilkenny. We invite Kilkenny-based

poets to submit their poems for consideration.

The aim of the publication is to give Kilkenny writers, born or based in Kilkenny, a platform for their work. We are thrilled to have Enda Wyley as this year’s editor. Last year, over sixty writers answered the call for submissions, sending in 110 poems for consideration. Thirteen poems were selected by Editor James Harpur for publication, and a further seven poets were shortlisted. Following publication, the Broadsheet is available free throughout the city and county via the library branches and other venues. Poems will pop up in surprise locations within the city to celebrate 25 years! So, keep an eye out!

Closing date for receipt of submissions is no later than 4pm on Friday 28th March 2025

For details on how to submit work to the Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet visit the Kilkenny Arts Office website at: https:// kilkennyartsoffice.ie/kilkennypoetry-broadsheet-2025-opencall-celebrating-25years/ Or scan QR code opposite:

Enda Wyley has published six collections of poetry with Dedalus Press:

The Painter on his Bike (2019) Borrowed Space, New and Selected Poems, (2014), To Wake to This, (2009), Poems for Breakfast, ( 2004 ), Socrates in the Garden, (1998) and Eating Baby Jesus, (1993). A seventh collection is due in 2025. Awards include the Vincent Buckley Poetry Prize, Melbourne University and a Reading Association of Ireland Award. Her books for children from O’Brien Press, are Boo and Bear, I Won’t Go to China! and The Silver Notebook. Enda is a highly experienced teacher of poetry and has been a judge for several competitions, including the International Dublin Literary Award and Strokestown International Poetry Festival. Enda’s work has frequently been broadcast on RTÉ Radio 1 and she he co-hosts the popular podcast Books for Breakfast, about books and writing. She is a member of Aosdána, the Irish academy of artists.

‘Enda Wyley is a true poet,’ The Irish Times

Full Day Workshop: Poetry, A Celebration

Date: Saturday 8th March

Time: 10.00am - 4.30pm

Location: Butler House, Kilkenny Bookings: Email: deirdre.southey@ kilkennycoco.ie or phone 0567794547

Deadline for bookings: Monday 3rd March

Cost: €15

The Arts Office has organized with Broadsheet editor Enda Wyley to run a special full-day workshop prior to the poetry submission deadline. This will be a day to Celebrate through poetry the world that we live in with poet Enda Wyley and be guided in your own poetry writing. Content for the day will include encountering work by established poets, the value of enjoying poetry, prompts into writing, the power of imagery, poetry and form, the sonic and visual power of poetry, how to edit and improve a poem, and how to remain focused as readers and writers of it. Participants will take away from this workshop an increased enthusiasm for poetry and a deeper understanding of the making of it. They will also feel encouraged and confident enough to keep writing and to continue to follow their own individual journey as emerging poets. Varied, interactive and fun – this oneday workshop will offer a positive, creative space for poetry to be truly celebrated.

Ireland Reads: A national celebration of reading

Throughout February and especially on Ireland Reads Day, February 22nd, we’re calling on people across Ireland to get lost in a good book. We invite you to discover the joy of Communal Reading at the Silent Book Club, which will take place in Mayfair Library on Saturday 22nd February. Executive Librarian Sophie Walsh says “This will be a “novel” opportunity to enjoy some quiet dedicated reading time with fellow book lovers. No assigned books, no pressure—just bring your favourite read!” Our morning session will be for adults only and the afternoon session is for families.

Thomastown Library will host a special Ireland Reads Poetry Workshop with author Lizzy Shortall on Thursday February 20th from 11am-12pm for 9-11 year olds and a special Storytime & Craft on Saturday 22nd.

In Castlecomer Library, our younger members will be given an opportunity to explore our comic and graphic book collections and you can also try your hand at creating your own comic book at our “Comic book creation station” throughout the morning on 22nd of February.

As part of Ireland Reads, Kilkenny County Council Library Service are hosting an online event aimed at Junior Cycle Secondary Students throughout the County. We will have Peadar O’Guilín author of “The Call” (now a prescribed Junior Cert text) on hand to talk about his novel. This is an online event for schools.

Ireland Reads is an initiative of the Government of Ireland to celebrate the joy of reading.

Please contact your Local Library for further details and to book these events https://www. kilkennylibrary.ie/eng/contact_us/

We are launching our Read 25 in 25 challenge

on February 4th which, as the name suggests challenges our readers (over 16) and adults, to read 25 books of any genre or format (e.g., print, e-books, audiobooks) by December 31, 2025, borrowed on your library card. You can pick up a reading log at any of our Kilkenny branches. We will help you to keep your reading resolutions for 2025 on track.

For more information please contact Sophie Walsh Sophie.walsh@kilkennycoco.ie

Tullaroan man Clohosey - a class act

BY LIAM BURKE

In August 2024, Liam Burke did a profile of one time Kilkenny hurler and County secretary Paddy Grace. The Kilkenny Observer received some wonderful comments on the article and readers of this paper hoped there would be more articles on former GAA people. Today, Liam Burke takes a look at the life of Tullaroan man, Sean Clohosey.

Long ago, even before I was a teenager, Sean Clohosey of Tullaroan and Kilkenny was one of my favourite hurling heroes. A hurler with exceptional skill, Sean was recognised as one of Kilkenny’s top hurlers during the fifties, until he rather suddenly retired after helping the Noresiders to defeat Waterford in the 1963 All-Ireland Hurling Final.

Outstanding

Sean played an outstanding game for Kilkenny in the middle of the field on that particular day, and supporters were shocked when he suddenly announced his retirement a few short hours later. The fact that he was still only 32 at the time and free from injury was a real surprise when he decided to hang up his boots.

I suppose I have always had a bit of a grá for Tullaroan as the hills of the famous hurling stronghold were always visible from my home in Dunmore. And I suppose the fact that my uncle Billy Burke played for some years with the club also caused me to favour the lads with the white jerseys and the green sash. I should also

mention that my grandmother was a Clohosey, not from Tullaroan, but from the townland of Seven Sisters in the parish of Johnstown. I heard that they were related, and I would certainly hope so.

Before 1884

It has been recorded that the Clohosey family had been connected with hurling even before the GAA was founded in 1884. Sean's grandfather was a very active administrator with the club and his son Pat (Sean's father) won his first Senior County Championship with Tullaroan in 1904, and his last in 1924. Pat Clohosey who was born in 1885 played in ten county finals winning six medals. He was also a substitute with two Kilkenny All-Ireland winning teams in 1904 and 1911.

1931

Sean was born in 1931, and was very prominent at under age level with Tullaroan before being named on the Kilkenny minor panel which reached the All-Ireland final in 1948. He scored a vital goal to defeat Wexford the following year, but he was then dropped as he was working in the Bank in Killorglin, and it has been said that the selectors decided at the time that it was just not feasible to bring him all the way back from Co. Kerry just to play minor hurling with Kilkenny

Point disallowed

Sean made his debut with Kilkenny in 1953, and they might have drawn with Galway in the All-Ireland Semi-Final that year, but the referee disallowed a point which had been scored by Jimmy Heffernan, as he had decided to blow the final whistle just as the ball went over the bar.

50,000 attended Kilkenny were very poor in 1954, and were rather easily beaten by Wexford in the Leinster final. They also lost the Leinster finals during the following two years, but they returned with a vengeance in 1957. Before a massive crowd of over 50,000 Kilkenny had an easy win over Wexford who were double All-Ireland Champions at the time in the Leinster final on a scoreline of 6-9 to 1-5.

Although injured, Sean scored two very valuable points in the 1957 All-Ireland Final against Waterford, and they were so lucky that year, as they could have been beaten in the first round against Dublin in Croke Park. They were entering their tenth year without a senior All-Ireland victory, and we will be in a similar position in a few months' time. Will we be lucky again? Only time will tell, and to return to that first round in 1957, Kilkenny had been winning by four points near the end, but then Paddy McGuirk scored a goal for Dublin. Kevin Heffernan (who was better known as a footballer) then added a point. Heffernan again secured possession, and was just about to hit the winning point, but the referee Brian Smyth of Meath blew the final whistle. Kilkenny rather easily defeated Dublin in the replay.

Memorable

1959 was a memorable year for Sean Clohosey as he was selected captain as Tullaroan were County champions in 1958. This was a very significant County final win for Tullaroan as it marked the first time that they won a county Senior final with an all-native Tullaroan fifteen. Before the introduction of the parish rule in 1954, most clubs had players from many different parishes, which was not in keeping with the Community spirit of the GAA. That parish rule has been good to Kilkenny because since

its introduction we have won 23 Senior Hurling All-Ireland Finals.

Related

Many of that Tullaroan County Championship winning team of 1958 were related. The five Hennessys- James, Paddy and Tommy, as well as the twins Bill and Joe were all brothers, and of course Sean and Jimmy Clohosey were also brothers. And the two Hogans Tom and Jim were also twin brothers.

Doubled

Sean Clohosey scored many memorable goals and points for Kilkenny over the years, but probably his last -second goal against Dublin in the 1959

Leinster final is the score that is most often recalled. Dublin were winning by two points, but Sean who had been standing on the edge of the square doubled an overhead ball to the net following a sideline cut by Johnny McGovern.

Captain

Sean, as the Kilkenny Captain had a fine game against Waterford in the All-Ireland, but Waterford with a rather fortunate goal near the end enabled them to draw. Ollie Walsh who played brilliantly in the Kilkenny goal had the particular ball covered but Jim (Link) Walsh, the Kilkenny full back, unfortunately deflected the ball with his hurley. Kilken-

ny were beaten in the replay as Johnny McGovern was forced to retire injured, having gone into the game with a shoulder injury, and Mick Brophy was missing because of tonsillitis. It should be mentioned too that Tommy O’Connell who scored three goals in the drawn game was illegally held on many occasions during the replay. The referee Stephen Gleeson of Limerick ignored the numerous blatant fouls on Tommy.

National League Kilkenny failed to get out of Leinster during the following three years 1960-1962, but they enjoyed some consolation when they defeated Cork in the National League final of 1962 on a scoreline of 1-16 to 1-8. That was the last occasion that Christy Ring, who was almost 42 at the time, played in Croke park.

"We always come back"

The heading in the Irish Press GAA supplement featuring Kilkenny in 1934 when the GAA was 50 years old, was "We will always come back". And we did just that in the following year 1963, when we once again defeated Waterford in the All-Ireland Final on a scoreline of 4-17 to 6-8. As I mentioned above, Sean had a fine game in the middle of the field, and then retired afterwards. Ah yes, Sean Clohosey was one of Kilkenny’s best ever hurlers, and he gave me many happy days when I was a youngster. Sean who was born on October 27th 1931, died on October 6th 2019 in Midleton Co. Cork where he had lived for many years.

The Clohosey family: Liam, Sean, Milo Joe, Paddy and Dick. Missing from photo: Jimmy, Chris and Maureen

Sean Clohosey’s parents Pat Clohosey and Mary Moore

Keeping up appearances: Sean Clohosey with comb

Tullaroan County champions 1924

BACK: Jim Tynan, John Holohan, Tommy Dunne, Alderman Jim Nolan, Willie Meagher (Ballycuddihy), Don Kennedy, Jack Hoyne, Bill Meagher (Curragh)

MIDDLE: Pat Clohosey, Joe Flemming, Dick Grace, Lory Meagher, Pa Kennedy, Jimmy Quigley FRONT: Jim Meagher, Jack Bergin, Jim Connors (Nipper)

Kilkenny All-Ireland Senior Hurling Champions 1957: Kilkenny 4-10 Waterford 3-12

BACK: Syd Bluet (trainer), Jim Walsh, Dick Rockett, John Sutton, Mick Brophy, Sean Clohosey, Mick Kenny, Ollie Walsh, Bob Aylward (Chairman)

FRONT: John McGovern, Billy Dwyer, Paddy Buggy, Denis Heaslip, Mick Kelly (capt) Mick Walsh, Tom Walsh and John Maher

Kilkenny County Council Arts Office is delighted to announce a new artist bursary for 2025. The Artists Connect Bursary aims to aid greater connection amongst the arts community in Kilkenny.

Application Deadline Monday March 3rd at 4pm The importance and benefits of connecting with others

within the arts community cannot be underestimated and is a matter that has been highlighted by artists, across art forms, in the various needs analysis that have been undertaken by the Arts Office in recent years. In response to this Kilkenny County Council Arts Office has developed the Artists Connect Bursary which will support artists in building

community and supportive structures that will facilitate greater connections within Kilkenny’s artistic community. The aim of the bursary is to enable artists to create opportunities for themselves and other artists to come together to share knowledge, skills and build relationships. The bursary will support artists to both initiate and continue to

build relationships and develop networks.

Kilkenny Arts Office values the potential of networking understanding that it is an important element in nurturing a dynamic, thriving art community. This bursary is a chance for artists to tailor networking events to their needs and the needs of others in their community. Through greater

connection with others, artists will feel supported and connected. These events also have the potential to develop partnerships, collaborations and new opportunities.

Bursary value

Between €500-€1,000

Who Can Apply?

• Artists based in Kilkenny for a minimum of 2 years

• Artists can apply as individuals, or as group/ collective

• Artists over 18 years old

• Artists of any art form and any stage of their career

What Can the Bursary be Used for?

The bursary is intended to support artists by providing financial assistance to allow them to actively expand and strengthen their professional networks and build community. This could be through gatherings and events that aim to make new connections, develop skills and gain knowledge that will benefit them professionally and personally in the short and long term.

What is Funded:

• The organisation of social group gatherings with other artists or other groups of interest. In person or online.

• The organisation of skill sharing sessions with other artists. In person or online.

• Fees for invited visiting experts / arts professionals to attend and facilitate an event or critique, including travel and accommodation.

How to apply: visit www. kilkennyartsoffice.ie for full details and an application form.

Deadline for Bursary Application: Monday March 3rd at 4pm . Applications to be emailed to: deirdre.southey@ kilkennycoco.ie

Government must do more to stop closure of after-school services in KilkennyNatasha Newsome Drennan TD

Sinn Fein TD for Carlow Kilkenny Natasha Newsome Drennan has called on the new Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley to prioritise the alarming decline in vital after-school services throughout Carlow and Kilkenny.

Teachta Newsome Drennan was speaking following a number of calls from distressed parents concerned their after-school service is to cease operating in the Castlecomer area from this September.

Newsome Drennan said:

“I have been contacted by a number of parents in the past week extremely concerned that they will have to give up work as a means to manage their childcare. One woman spoke of the stress of trying to manage work and now find childcare for her children in an area where places are few and far between.

“The closure of this service leaves that area, with a large

urban/ rural population with little to no access to after-school.

“It is vital Minister Foley prioritises the lack of SAC services (after-school) in rural areas. I am concerned childcare was simply given lip service in the Programme for Government.

My colleague, Claire Kerrane TD and Sinn Fein spokesperson on Children, slammed the new government for their lack of vision in building the much-needed capacity in the

“This closure is part of a larger problem that impacts parents, and in particular single parents who heavily rely on their childcare services. Rural Ireland is haemorrhaging services, it is vital the new Minister sets out a clear plan to move towards a public model of funding as promised during the recent election.

“The government mustn’t spend the next few years simply plastering up problems, we need to see a real plan for the sector; professionals working in the sector, owner/ operators, parents and crucially children deserve it.

Renowned for her impeccable raceday style, Derville Meade has been unveiled as the guest judge for the highly anticipated RED MILLS Style Awards, taking place at the RED MILLS Race day at Gowran Park, Saturday 15th February. This glamorous event will reward the most stylish lady and gentleman with incredible prizes from the RED MILLS Store, making it a must-attend for fashion enthusiasts and racing fans alike. Derville, a prominent figure in both the equine and fashion worlds, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Co-owner of Labstock

Derville Meade announced as guest judge for RED MILLS Style Awards at RED MILLS Race day

MicroServices with her sister Elaine, Derville is a driving force behind one of the leading suppliers in the bloodstock, livestock, and canine markets. A familiar face on the racing circuit, she frequently attends race meetings alongside her husband, renowned trainer Noel Meade.

Joining forces with Carlow native and style expert Marietta Doran, Derville will help select the most stylish lady and gentleman at this year’s event. Known for her practical yet chic approach to raceday fashion, Derville shared her excitement about the role:

"I am absolutely delighted to be involved with the Connolly's RED MILLS Style Awards at RED MILLS Race day. It is a great occasion and brings out all the style in the local area and with racing people," she said. "You have to be practical when you are going racing in Winter, but you can still be stylish and dress up too."

The RED MILLS Race day promises a thrilling mix of top-class racing, vibrant entertainment, and standout fashion. Attendees can look forward to live music throughout the day, including a special

post-racing performance by After Dark, as well as fashion shows showcasing the latest collections from the RED MILLS Store. Racegoers eager to participate in the Style Awards are encouraged to register in advance here. Entry to the RED MILLS Race day is free, with tickets available for registration on the Gowran Park website.

With Derville Meade’s expertise and passion for style, combined with Marietta Doran’s flair, the RED MILLS Style Awards are set to be the highlight of an unmissable day of racing and glamour.

Connolly’s Red Mills Race Day 2025

Saint Sam 2024 winner of RED MILLS Chase

Langtry Lady and Rachael Blackmore winners of the Gr.3 Red Mills Trial Hurdle

Trainer Henry de Bromhead

Connolly’s Mills Day

The Red Mills Race Day, held annually at Gowran Park Racecourse in County Kilkenny, stands as a testament to Ireland's rich equestrian heritage and the enduring partnership between Connolly's Red Mills and the local racing community. Over the years, this event has evolved into a premier fixture in the Irish racing calendar, celebrated not only for its highcalibre races but also for its vibrant blend of fashion, entertainment, and community spirit.

the equestrian industry. The Red Mills Race Day, typically held in mid-February, features two marquee races: the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase and the Grade 3 Red Mills Trial Hurdle. These races have historically attracted top-tier talent, serving as pivotal pre-Cheltenham events.

storied history, with champions like Un Des Sceaux in 2014 and Hardy Eustace in 2005 gracing its roll of honour.

Connolly's Red has been sponsoring races at Gowran Park for more than four decades. This longstanding association underscores the company's commitment to supporting local traditions and

The Red Mills Chase, a 2-mile 4-furlong contest, has witnessed remarkable performances over the years. Notable winners include Our Duke in 2018, Champagne Fever in 2015, and the consecutive victories of Rachael Blackmore aboard Monalee in 2019 and Chris’s Dream in 2020, both trained by Henry de Bromhead. The Red Mills Trial Hurdle, a 2-mile race, has its own

At the 2020 Red Mills Raceday, Rachael Blackmore showcased her exceptional talent by securing a notable double victory. She first triumphed in the feature race, the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase, aboard Chris's Dream, leading from start to finish. Shortly after, she clinched another win on Spyglass Hill in the Boyle Sports App Beginners Chase. These achievements highlighted Rachael Blackmore's skill as a leading jockey in National Hunt racing.

Willie Mullins has an impressive record at Gowran Park's Red Mills Race Day, particularly in the

feature events. In the Red Mills Chase, a Grade 2 contest over 2 miles and 4 furlongs, Mullins has secured multiple victories with horses like Micko's Dream (2000), J'y Vole (2010), Champagne Fever (2015), Ballycasey (2017), Bachasson (2021), Melon (2022), Janidil (2023), and Saint Sam (2024).

Beyond the thrilling races, the Red Mills Race Day is renowned for its style and elegance. The event's Style Quarter becomes a hub of activity, featuring fashion shows, pop-up shops, and the eagerly anticipated Best Dressed competitions.

The organizers have consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusivity and community involvement. For instance, in 2025, free tickets were made available to the public, ensuring that a broad audience could partake in the day's festivities. The event also featured live entertainment from the band After Dark, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.

As the Red Mills Race Day continues to grow in prominence, it remains a cherished tradition that seamlessly blends the thrill of horse racing with fashion, entertainment, and community spirit. The enduring success of this event is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Connolly's Red Mills, Gowran Park Racecourse, participants, and the enthusiastic spectators who return year after year to celebrate this hallmark of Irish culture.

In conclusion, the Red Mills Race Day exemplifies the harmonious fusion of sport, style, and community, solidifying its status as a cornerstone event in Ireland's equestrian calendar.

Rachael Blackmore

Willie Mullins & Joe Connolly

The success of Connolly's RED MILLS animal nutrition and fashion store

Connolly's RED MILLS, a familyowned enterprise rooted in County Kilkenny, Ireland, has evolved over more than a century into a global leader in animal nutrition.

Established in 1908, the company has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, quality, and diversification, culminating in the successful launch of their flagship retail store in Kilkenny City in June 2017. This store seamlessly blends their expertise in animal nutrition with a curated selection of country living fashion, catering to a diverse clientele.

The Connolly family's dedication to animal nutrition began in the early 20th century. Over five generations, they have transformed a local mill into a trusted global brand, known for high-performance horse feed, pet food, and agricultural products. Their products are now available in over 80 countries, including the UK, USA, Japan, and various parts of the Far East.

In June 2017, Connolly's RED MILLS expanded their horizons by opening a flagship retail store in the heart of Kilkenny City.

footwear

from top brands like Dubarry, Ariat, Le Chameau, Samshield, Schoffel, Hicks & Brown, Fairfax & Favor and King Louise. The success of the RED MILLS Store can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to quality and exceptional customer service.

The experienced staff are always on hand to offer advice on everything from selecting the most suitable dog food to fitting a new riding hat. This personalized approach ensures that customers receive products tailored to their specific needs, fostering loyalty and trust.

Moreover, the store offers free parking in a spacious car park, enhancing the convenience for visitors.

Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Connolly's RED MILLS also provides online shopping options, allowing customers to shop from the comfort of their homes. With services like home delivery and in-store collection, they cater to a broad audience, ensuring that quality products are within reach for all.

Strategically situated at Cillin Hill, Dublin Road, Kilkenny, the store benefits from its proximity to major landmarks and easy accessibility. The operating hours are designed to accommodate a wide range of customers:

• Monday to Saturday: 8 am - 6 pm

• Sunday: Closed

These hours ensure that even those

with busy schedules can find a convenient time to visit.

The RED MILLS Store's success lies in its holistic approach to country living. By combining their extensive knowledge in animal nutrition with a passion for quality country fashion, they have created a unique retail experience. This fusion appeals to a broad spectrum of customers, from equestrian enthusiasts to those seeking premium country attire. Connolly's RED MILLS' reputation extends far beyond Ireland. Their feeds are trusted by leading racehorse owners and trainers worldwide, a testament to the quality and efficacy of their products. This global recognition has been built over decades, with the company consistently adhering to the highest standards in manufacturing and quality control.

Innovation has always been at the heart of Connolly's RED MILLS' operations. From investing in advanced cooking technology to ensure optimal bioavailability of nutrients to expanding their product range to include pet food and agricultural feeds, the company has continually adapted to meet the evolving needs of their customers. This commitment to innovation ensures that they remain at the forefront of the animal nutrition industry.

Beyond their commercial endeavours, Connolly's RED MILLS is deeply committed to supporting the local community. Through regular sponsorships within Ireland, the UK, and beyond, they actively contribute to the equine industry and other local initiatives. This engagement not only strengthens their brand presence but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.

The success of Connolly's RED MILLS' nutrition and fashion store is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By leveraging their rich heritage in animal nutrition and seamlessly integrating it with a passion for country fashion, they have created a unique retail experience that resonates with a diverse clientele. As they continue to evolve and expand, their dedication to excellence ensures that they will remain a cherished brand both locally and globally.

Located at Cillín Hill Retail Park, adjacent to the Lyrath Estate Hotel, this state-of-the-art establishment offers a carefully curated selection of country living wares. Customers can find everything from saddles and horse feeds to clothing and

Jane Mangan, Jake Carter and Marietta Doran at the annual Red Mills Race Day

Caroline and Jane Davis at the annual Red Mills Race Day

Winter racing is one of the most elegant events of the season, combining the thrill of the track with the opportunity to showcase your personal style. However, dressing for winter racing requires a delicate balance between practicality and sophistication. It’s all about creating a look that is comfortable, warm, and effortlessly stylish. The RED MILLS Store has become a go-to destination for racegoers looking to curate the perfect winter ensemble, offering a selection of premium brands that make it easy to look and feel fabulous on race day. At the heart of any raceday look is footwear, and RED MILLS is the exclusive stockist of Fairfax & Favor, one of the most coveted footwear brands for racegoers. Their iconic Regina boots are a winter wardrobe staple, offering both comfort and timeless elegance. Whether you opt for classic suede or a sleek leather finish, these boots provide the perfect blend of style and functionality, keeping you comfortable while standing for hours at the races. A good pair of boots is non-negotiable for winter racing, and Fairfax & Favor delivers on every front, with a variety of styles to suit different outfits and tastes.

Layers for warmth and style Winter racing fashion is all about mastering the art of layering. The unpredictable weather makes layering not just practical but a chance to add depth, movement, and color to your outfit. Start with a soft, tailored shirt from brands like Dubarry or King Lou ie for a polished base. Add a lightweight knit or jumper for extra warmth before finishing with a statement coat or jacket. The RED MILLS Store stocks

a stunning range of outerwear from Welligogs, Dubar ry, Barbour and Schoffel, iconic brands renowned for their quality and timeless style. For a truly standout look, a Barbour wax jacket is an ideal choice. Not only does it embody classic country chic, but it’s also built to withstand the elements, keeping you dry and warm without com promising on style. Pair this with a co lourful scarf from La Fée Maraboutée

Winter racing style -

effortless, comfortable, and chic looks from the

RED MILLS Store

King Louie coat and scarf

Hicks & Brown

ject vibrancy and texture into your outfit. Scarves are a fantastic way to elevate your look while ensuring you stay cosy and comfortable, no matter the weather.

Hats: The Perfect Finishing

A day at the races isn’t complete without the perfect hat. Hats are an easy way to elevate your outfit from stylish to spectacular, and RED MILLS Store offers a fabulous range to choose from. Hicks & Brown fedoras are a standout option, with their feather detailing and luxurious feel making them a firm favourite among racegoers. For those looking to support Irish craftsmanship, Dubarry’s range of hats offers a blend of style and heritage that’s hard

Whether you’re opting for a bold statement piece or a more understated design, a well-chosen hat adds a touch of drama and sophistication to any winter racing outfit. It’s a chance to embrace the glamour of the occasion and let your personality shine.

Stylish Comfort for Men

It’s not just about the ladies—winter racing is a prime opportunity for men to step up their style game. RED MILLS Store stocks a range of men’s clothing from Schoffel and Dubarry, two brands synonymous with high-quality country wear. Layering is just as important for men as it is for women. A smart tweed jacket or quilted coat paired with a crisp shirt and a cozy sweater creates a

look that is both refined and practical. Footwear is equally crucial for men, with Dubarry boots offering a winning combination of durability and style. A sturdy yet polished pair of boots not only keeps you comfortable but also adds a rugged charm to your outfit, perfect for the outdoor setting of the races.

The Beauty of “More is More” When it comes to winter racing fashion, more is more. Layering shirts, jackets, coats, and scarves not only keeps you warm but allows you to play with colours, textures, and patterns. Don’t be afraid to mix and match—experimenting with your look is part of the fun. The RED MILLS Store provides everything you need to build a wardrobe that’s as functional as it is fashionable, ensuring you look your best whether you’re cheering trackside or enjoying the post-race festivities.

Why the RED MILLS Store?

The RED MILLS Store isn’t just a shop—it’s a style destination. As the exclusive stockist of Fairfax & Favor and home to sought-after brands like Cristina Barros, Diega, La Fée Maraboutée, Barbour, Schoffel, and Dubarry, it offers everything you need to create the perfect winter racing outfit. With an emphasis on quality, comfort, and style, the store’s curated collection ensures you’ll find pieces that stand out for all the right reasons.

So, as the winter racing season approaches, why not visit the RED MILLS Store and discover your next signature look? Whether you’re competing for the most stylish award or simply want to enjoy the day in comfort and elegance, RED MILLS has you covered.

Barbour Womens Tartan Ashby Waxed Jacket

Schoffel Mens Oundle Country Coat in Coffee Bean

Fairfax & Favor

Heeled Regina Leather Boot in Mahogany

Dubarry Mens Galway Country Boot in Walnut

COMPETITION TIME

Red Mills Race Day and Style Event

FEBRUARY 15TH 2025

WIN a €300 voucher

SPONSORED BY THE KILKENNY OBSERVER

Connolly’s Red Mills have sponsored this much loved race meeting for over 40 years, and the Style event which was added in recent years is a wonderful opportunity to get all dolled up and be in with a chance to win some pretty amazing prizes.

The Kilkenny Observer are holding a competition to mark this great occasion.

The prize is a €300 voucher for Connolly’s Red Mills Store at Cillín Hill, Kilkenny.

Just complete the entry form below with your details and answer to the competition question to be in with a chance to win this fabulous prize. You will have the opportunity to shop at Connolly’s Red Mills Store who feature brands such as Schoffel, Fairfax & Favor and Dubarry.

Good luck everybody.

Question: Who is the Guest Judge for RED MILLS Style Awards at RED MILLS Race Day this year, Saturday 15th February 2025? Answer

Competition Rules

1. This competition is sponsored by The Kilkenny Observer

2. The prize will be a €300.00 Voucher for Connolly’s Red Mills Store at Cillín Hill

3. The closing date for entries is Wednesday, February 26th 2025 at 5.00pm..

4. The winner will be chosen by an open draw held at the office of The Kilkenny Observer on Friday 28th February 2025.

5. After being notified the winner will be announced in our edition of March 7th.

6. The prize is non-transferable; no cash equivalents may be claimed.

7. All competition entries must be completed on the above form only.

8. The winner will be advised by phone on Friday evening 28th February. Please be available to take the call.

9. After being notified the name and photograph of the winner will be published in the next edition of The Kilkenny Observer.

10. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to have agreed to be bound by them when entering the competition.

11. The competition is not open to The Kilkenny Observer employees or their families.

Kilkenny WITH

Reflect on your purchase with a coffee at Red Mills Café

Nestled within the Red Mills Store at Cillín Hill Retail Park on Dublin Road in Kilkenny, the Red Mills Café offers a delightful retreat for both locals and visitors. Open from 8 Monday through to Saturday, the café provides a warm and inviting atmosphere for patrons to enjoy a variety of refreshments.

While sipping on a coffee, you can reflect on your outfit purchase. Was it the right choice?, the fabric felt luxurious and the fit was just right and the answer is YES, I love my new outfit. The aroma of a coffee swirls with my thoughts and my confidence. Style is personal, but satisfaction lingers like caffeine.

Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the freshly brewed selections from Badger & Dodo, an artisan Irish coffee company known for its quality roasts. Complementing the coffee offerings is a selection of sandwiches, snacks, and homemade cakes and treats, catering to a range of tastes and preferences.

The café is designed to be both sit-in and takeaway friendly, accommodating those who wish to relax on-site as well as customers on the go. Pet owners will be pleased to know that the Red Mills Café is pet-friendly, making it a convenient stop for those accompanied by their furry friends. Additionally, the availability of free Wi-Fi ensures that visitors can stay connected while enjoying their time at the café.

Gowran Park live entertainment –Connolly’s Red Mills Race Day

Red Mills Race Day stands out as one of the premier events in the Irish racing calendar. The excitement of live horse racing, combined with the vibrant atmosphere, draws in crowds from across the country. However, what truly sets the Red Mills Race Day apart is the top-tier live music entertainment that complements the exhilarating races, making it a must-visit event for both racing enthusiasts and music lovers. Red Mills race day is a day where both sport and entertainment are brought together in an exciting, family-friendly environment.

The live music on Red Mills Race Day is typically a blend of various genres, ensuring there is something for everyone. From lively traditional Irish folk tunes to upbeat pop, rock, and contemporary hits, the music offerings are designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes. This diversity in music makes the event accessible to all attendees, whether they are avid horse racing fans or people simply looking for a fun day out.

The combination of live music with the adrenaline of horse racing creates a unique

experience that enhances the overall atmosphere of the event. Racegoers can cheer on their favourite horses while enjoying the tunes of talented musicians, with the music often heightening the

excitement and energy of the day. Whether it's a lively tune to get the crowd hyped up or a laid-back acoustic performance to unwind, the live entertainment offers the perfect balance to the fast-

stick around for the evening performances, making it a full day of entertainment.

The vibrant energy continues into the evening with music, dancing, and socialising, providing an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

The music is strategically placed throughout the racecourse which creates a lively, festive atmosphere that is unlike any other race day.

• 12.15pm – Croi Live on the Balcony Bar

• 16.00pm – Peter and Paul Live in the Ground Floor Bar

• 16.00pm – Kilkenny Phil

Coulter Live in Blinkers

paced racing action.

Moreover, the addition of live music helps to extend the experience beyond the races.

Once the last race concludes, the fun doesn’t have to stop. Many attendees choose to

• 17.00pm – After Dark Live in the O Driscoll’s Whiskey Party Marguee

After Dark, a live music experience you do not want to miss.

After Dark is an indie rock band based in Kilkenny,

known for its energetic performances and eclectic blend of musical styles. Formed in 2013, the band draws from various genres, including alternative rock, pop, and blues, creating a distinct sound that resonates with fans across Ireland and beyond.

The band has gained recognition for their dynamic stage presence and tightknit chemistry, building a loyal fanbase. After Dark has performed in numerous venues and festivals, earning praise for their engaging live shows. Their discography includes a mix of original tracks, with songs featuring strong melodies and catchy hooks, contributing to their growing popularity in the indie scene. As they continue to evolve, After Dark remains a significant part of Kilkenny’s vibrant music scene.

After Dark

Hours after taking office

President Donald Trump announced a temporary freeze on almost all foreign assistance pausing billions of dollars in global funding, a move being changed at court level.

The decision by the world’s single largest donor has sent shockwaves across the world, with aid groups warning that the move will put lives at risk.

In 2023, Washington disbursed $72bn in foreign aid across nearly 180 countries.

In the next three months, Secretary of State Marco Rubio will review and take a call on whether “to continue, modify, or terminate programmes,” according to a State Department memo.

Emergency food programmes, like the ones used to help people suffering from a widening famine in war-torn Sudan, are exempt, and so is military aid to close US allies Israel and Egypt.

A major chunk of US aid in 2023 was disbursed in the form of economic assistance ($59.9bn), with Ukraine receiving the most at $14.4bn from the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The second-highest recipient, Jordan, received $770m in economic aid through USAID. Yemen and Afghanistan received $359.9m and $332m respectively.

By sector, the most funding is given to economic development at $19bn. Health receives the second highest funding at $16bn while humanitarian aid stands at $15.6bn.

In addition to economic aid, the US gave $8.2bn in military aid to its allies across the world, nearly half of which was received by Israel and Egypt.

The US has committed to give Israel $3.8bn in annual military aid through 2028, according to a Memorandum of Understanding signed under President Barack Obama.

Additional military aid of $17.9bn was given to Israel amid the country’s devastating war on the Gaza Strip, according to a Brown University Costs of War report.

Since Israel’s founding in 1948, the US has given some $120bn in military assistance.

Egypt has been the secondhighest receiver of US military aid at $1.2bn since the signing of the 1978 Camp David Accords, which saw Cairo becoming the first Arab country to recognise Israel.

The US has also provided Egypt with financial aid since the 1978 treaty.

Among the programmes that would be affected include the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which received approximately $120bn since its launch in 2003. The world’s largest health programme, since its launch by President George W Bush, PEPFAR is believed to have saved 25 million lives, including 5.5 million children, in at least 50 countries.

AmfAR, the Foundation for AIDS Research, slammed the freeze on PEPFAR, saying that “hundreds of thousands of people will immediately be

Trump’s foreign aid suspension will hurt millions

unable to access effective and life-saving HIV treatment and other services”.

The Aurum Institute, a nonprofit that works in Ghana, Mozambique and South Africa in global health research on HIV and tuberculosis, said it was “obliged” to stop activities on US-funded projects.

“We acknowledge the uncertainty you are experiencing and apologise deeply for

the inconvenience. Aurum is committed to seeking solutions together with other partners to address the challenges as soon as possible,” the organisation said.

International aid organisations, including United Nations agencies, are scrambling to handle the situation, and some are rushing to cut expenditure.

Filippo Grandi, the UN high commissioner for refugees,

sent out an email to employees ordering an immediate clampdown on expenditure.

“We must proceed very carefully over the next few weeks to mitigate the impact of this funding uncertainty on refugees and displaced people, on our operations and on our teams,” he said in an internal email accessed by The Guardian news outlet.

The UN refugee agency, which received $2.49bn in US funding last year, provides lifesaving assistance to 122 million people across at least 100 countries.

Abby Maxman, head of Oxfam America, said the funding freeze “could have life-

IT’SA FUNNY OLD WORLD

* A family’s move from New Zealand to Australia went horribly wrong when they realised their cat had been left on the plane and flown back home.

Mittens, an eight-year-old Maine coon cat, was booked on a one-way trip from Christchurch, in New Zealand, to Melbourne, Australia. Once they touched down in Melbourne, she was meant to be unloaded from the cargo hold but after three hours waiting, owner Margo Neas said there was no sign of her. It was then that ground staff told Ms Neas the plane had returned to New Zealand –with Mittens still on board. The return trip involves about seven-and-a-half hours in the air.

* One by one, visitors to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden pull out their phones to snap pictures of the rare blooming plant before leaning in to brave a whiff of its infamously putrid scent, which resembles that of rotting flesh. “It smells like feet, cheese and rotten meat. It just smelled like the worst possible combination of smells,” Elijah Blades said. “That was disgusting.”The rare Amorphophallus gigas — a relative of the Amorphophallus titanum, commonly known as the corpse flower — has bloomed for the first time since arriving in Brooklyn in 2018. Native to Sumatra, the plant is known for its height and carrion scent, which it uses to attract pollinators.

It has hundreds of flowers, both male and female, inside the bloom, and it can take years between blooming events, said gardener Chris Sprindis, who first noticed the inflorescence, or cluster of flowers, around New Year’s Eve. The bloom will last only a few days before it collapses

or-death consequences” for families worldwide. “By suspending foreign development assistance, the Trump administration is threatening the lives and futures of communities in crisis, and abandoning the United States’ long-held bipartisan approach to foreign assistance which supports people based on need, regardless of politics,” Maxman said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for the US to consider additional exemptions to “ensure the continued delivery of critical development and humanitarian activities for the most vulnerable communities around the world”.

* Italian soccer club Lazio has fired the man who handled the club’s eagle mascot after he posted photos and videos online of his own prosthetic penis.

Falconer Juan Bernabé shared the images on his private social media accounts after undergoing surgery for a penile implant, which he said was for non-medical reasons.

Bernabé also gave an interview to controversial Italian radio show La Zanzara and elaborated on his reasons for undergoing the procedure. Bernabé added that he felt “very proud” and “more masculine” being part of Lazio. The club clearly did not feel the same as it fired the Spaniard shortly afterward.

Kilkenny pays homage to St. Brigid

Kilkenny City and county marked the feast day and public holiday to honour St. Brigid with a mix of creative flair, religious devotion, and homage to our county’s heritage.

Those lovely crosses appeared everywhere and the famed Kilkenny Heritage Walkers paid a special visit to an ancient well dedicated to the saint.

In homes, schools, libraries and churches, traditional Brigid’s Crosses were fashioned from rushes or straw, upholding a custom dating to about the mid-17th century. Acclaimed artist/ ecologist Monica Fleming gave classes in how to craft these symbols of tribute to the woman whose life of healing

and compassion continues to inspire.

Monica also explored other crafts and traditions associated with Ireland’s long and often turbulent past, as well as drawing parallels with differing cultures and ethnicities.

It was an opportunity to reconnect with our Celtic inheritance, and maybe even rediscover that old Irish belief in a world beyond, where departed loved ones reside and watch out for us.

In past times, rushes to make the crosses might be gathered on January 31st and on February 1st the weaving followed under the householder’s watchful eye.

Having been left overnight to receive a special saintly

blessing, the crosses were positioned on the rafters or over the doors of homes to invoke the saint’s blessing for the remainder of the year.

After independence in 1922, St. Brigid’s Cross took its place with other potent symbols of Irishness such as the harp and the shamrock. In the 1950s, the Department of health chose it as part of its official logo, as did RTE in 1962.

The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland also adapted it, not surprisingly given Brigid’s association with motherhood.

I called into Fennelly’s café/ artistic hub in Callan, where rushes were neatly arranged on every table and anyone who dropped in was invited to fashion their own crosses,

with help and guidance from proprietor Etaoin Holahan. Lively chats ensued as the interlacing rushes took on the likeness of a Celtic icon. Some had more success than others in weaving the much-loved Crest of the Gael but each had its own appeal and distinctive style. Apart from Etaoin, Bridie the Jack Russell was available to inspect the work, a reminder that Brigid was a champion of the animal kingdom.

Fennelly’s has kept the light of culture flickering brightly since it opened its doors over a decade ago and Brigid herself would surely be proud of the craftsmanship on display. One cross-maker opined that Brigid must be a friend of Fennelly’s.

Given its role in promoting a multitude of creative projects and bringing communities together, she mightn’t be far wrong. Meanwhile, in another part of the county, the Kilkenny Heritage Walkers had set out on their annual visit to St. Brigid’s well in the parish of Ballycallan, led by Jimmy Neary, brother of historian Paddy Neary. Lar McGrath and a team of dedicated locals assisted the group in navigating the maze of fields to be crossed to reach the well. They set off from the Church of Saint Brigid at Gorteen to

passing of the farmer on whose land the well is located. Sean Hoyne had, each year, extended a hearty welcome to the walkers and gone out of his way to accommodate their act of homage. He was a hugely popular figure in the Ballycallan district, commanding respect for his wisdom, kindness, and friendly word for everyone. The visit to the well drew a larger than expected group, partly due to a wish to say a posthumous “thank you” to Sean. A simple but deeply moving tribute to the man greeted

approached the

Sean’s family had placed a pair of boots along with a shovel, at the farm gate…symbols of an honest life on the land. Sean’s family participated in the event this year. It was an

The group, in addition to hearing the story of the well, traditional hymns of praise to Brigid. They also sampled

properties, before departing next year to St. Brigid’s recall one of our county’s historic and spiritual

Etaoin at Fennellys with actor Stephen Rae and the late Callan born novelist Tom Kilroy

The Heritage Walkers on a previous visit to St Brigids Well

One of the Brigids Crosses woven at Fennellys of Callan

BY PAUL BOLGER

Aches and pains are a fact of life. For some of us, an injury occurs, we feel pain, it lingers a while and slowly eases away as we recover. For other people, however, pain sticks around longer or regularly comes back. Some people never suffer from a specific injury in the first place, yet pain causes daily angst and upset.

There are some conditions in which aches and pains are common features, like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetic neuropathy. But what else makes a person vulnerable to persistent pain issues?

The Research Scientists studying pain have been working for decades trying to figure out why some people suffer from persistent pain while others don’t. In their research, they have investigated a wide range of factors – like posture, injury severity, scan findings, mood, health and beliefs. The findings might surprise you.

Injury matters, but not that much Injury severity and scan findings seem to have some influence on the severity of pain and how likely pain

Painwhat matters?

What influences our likelihood of suffering from persistent pain?

will become persistent, but they don’t seem all that important. In other words, the amount of damage caused by an injury is relevant, but not all that important when it comes to pain severity or pain becoming a long-term issue.

Posture isn’t so important

As we have explored previously, posture is not a good predictor of pain or

pain becoming persistent. This may be a surprise to many of you, as we often hear that “fixing” posture will solve our problems or prevent pain in the first place. But the research shows us that it is just not all that important. So, what does matter?

Mental & Physical Health

General health at the time of an injury predicts the

likelihood of pain from that injury lasting longer.

The same can be said for psychological wellbeing. Mental and physical health have been found to be greater predictors of long-term pain following a whiplash injury in a car accident than the severity of the accident itself. Issues like post-traumatic stress, depression and anxiety are all important

here. So, general health (mental and physical) matters.

Sleep Quality

Sleep is strongly linked to pain. Poor sleep puts people at risk of suffering from pain, as well as increasing the risk of an injury turning into a persistent pain problem. Considering this, it is unsurprising that improvements in

sleep are associated with improvements in persistent pain problems.

Thoughts & Beliefs Beliefs are strongly linked to the likelihood of pain persisting. Catastrophising (i.e. thinking the worst) and kinesiophobia (i.e. fear of movement) predict poorer outcomes following an injury. This can be influenced by a number of factors, like hearing worrying things about scan findings and our own propensity towards anxious thoughts.

When it comes to back pain, seeing the back as fragile and in need of protection has a negative influence. On the other hand, knowing that your back is robust and able to adapt and improve is linked to better outcomes.

What to do

I believe it is so important for people to be aware that, when it comes to pain, it’s not all about damage, injury and posture - general health, thoughts and behaviours all play an important role.

If you need help with a particular issue, it might be worth bringing up some of these points with a healthcare professional. This might help you to make a plan to better manage your pain.

To my regular readers - I will be away for the next 2 weeks, but I will be back with a new article for you at the end of February.

Motoring

The quality of Citroën vans

Citroën, a renowned French automobile manufacturer, has long been recognized for its innovation, reliability, and quality in vehicle production. Their range of vans, which caters to both commercial and personal use, exemplifies the company’s commitment to engineering excellence, comfort, and practicality. This analysis delves into the quality of Citroën vans, focusing on design, performance, reliability, safety, and overall user satisfaction.

Citroën vans are widely appreciated for their practical and user-friendly designs. Models such as the Berlingo, Dispatch showcases a commitment to combining aesthetics with functionality. Each model is crafted to serve specific needs, with features that make them adaptable to a variety of purposes, including logistics, small business operations, and personal travel.

The interior designs emphasize ergonomics and space efficiency. Citroën integrates smart storage solutions, comfortable seating, and advanced infotainment

systems across its van range.

The Berlingo, for example, offers a well-thought-out cabin layout with an array of compartments for tools, devices, and personal belongings. In larger models like the Relay, the expansive cargo space is a major draw, capable of accommodating bulky loads with ease. Additionally, the modularity of these vans enables flexible configurations, allowing users to adapt them to suit specific needs, whether for passenger transport or goods delivery. Reliability is a cornerstone of Citroën's reputation, and its vans are no exception. These vehicles are designed to endure heavy usage, whether in urban settings or on long-haul routes.

The robust construction of Citroën vans, coupled with rigorous testing during the development phase, ensures they can withstand the demands of commercial operations.

Safety is a key priority for Citroën, and their vans are equipped with a host of advanced safety technologies. Standard features include Electronic Stability Control

(ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and multiple airbags, ensuring a secure driving environment. Furthermore, optional features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control enhance driver awareness and reduce the risk of accidents.

For businesses, safety translates into fewer disruptions and lower insurance costs, making Citroën vans a smart choice for fleet operations. The vans also perform well in crash tests, underscoring their robust construction and protective design.

Citroën vans enjoy high levels of customer satisfaction, with many praising their affordability, efficiency, and practicality. Small business owners, in particular, appreciate the

value-for-money proposition these vehicles offer. While luxury might not be their primary focus, Citroën compensates with features like comfortable cabins, modern connectivity options, and effective climate control systems.

Citroën vans stand out in the competitive market for their blend of practicality, reliability, and efficiency.

Whether it’s the compact versatil-

ity of the Berlingo, the midsized adaptability of the Dispatch, or the large-scale utility of the Relay, Citroën offers solutions tailored to a range of needs. Their emphasis on quality design, advanced safety features, and robust performance has earned them a loyal customer base.

For busi-

nesses and individuals alike, Citroën vans represent a reliable and costeffective option that does not compromise on comfort or functionality. By consistently evolving to meet modern demands, Citroën reinforces its position as a leader in the van segment.

Food & Drink

Vegan roots stew

Prep: 45 mins

Cook: 40 mins

Serves: 4-6

With Sri Lankan braised roots stew and coconut dhal dumplings, combine the fabulous flavours of a Sri Lankan curry with the comfort of a British stew to make this sumptuous vegan dish accompanied by coconut dumplings.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp coconut oil

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 6 curry leaves

• 1 onion finely sliced

• 1 leek finely sliced

• 3 garlic cloves1 sliced, 2 minced

• 2 chillies deseeded and finely chopped

• 2 celer y stalks diced

• 1 tbsp roasted curry powder (see below)

• 400ml can chopped tomatoes

• 2 raw beetroot peeled and cut into batons

• 3 parsnips sliced

• 3 carrots sliced

• 400ml can coconut milk

Black beans and avocado on toast Come Dine WithMe

Prep: 20 mins

Cook: 10 mins

Serves: 4

A vibrant Mexican-style breakfast with fresh avocado and black beans. Give yourself a healthy start with our easy vegan beans on toast with a twist.

Ingredients

• 270g cherry tomatoes quartered

• 1 red or white onion finely chopped

• ½ limejuiced

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 2 garlic cloves crushed

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 2 tsp chipotle pasteor 1 tsp chilli flakes

• 2 x 400g cans black beans drained

• small bunch coriander chopped

• 4 slices bread

• 1 avocado finely sliced

For the dumplings

• 100g split red lentils

• 1½ tbsp coconut oil

• 1 tsp mustard seeds

• 1 tbsp curry leaves

Method

STEP 1

Mix the tomatoes, ¼ onion, lime juice and 1 tbsp oil and set aside. Fry the remaining onion in 2 tbsp oil until it starts to soften. Add the garlic, fry for 1 min, then add the cumin and chipotle and stir until fragrant. Tip in the beans and a splash of water, stir and cook gently until heated through. Stir in most of the tomato mixture and cook for 1 min, season well and add most of the coriander.

STEP 2

Toast the bread and drizzle with the remaining 1 tbsp oil. Put a slice on each plate and pile some beans on top. Arrange some slices of avocado on top, then sprinkle with the remaining tomato mixture and coriander leaves to serve.

• 75g self-raising flour

• ½ green chilli finely chopped

• ½ red onion finely chopped

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp red chilli powder

• 80g desiccated coconut

• ½ limejuiced

For the Sri Lankan curry powder

• 10g basmati rice

• 20g coriander seeds

• 15g cumin seeds

• 10g black peppercorns

• 5g fenugreek seeds

• 3g cloves

• 3g seeds from cardamom pods

To serve

• sliced spring onion

• fresh coriander leaves

STEP 1

To make the curry powder: In a dry frying pan, toast the rice until it’s browning, then add all the spices and toast for 3-5 mins until darkish brown but not burned. Blitz it all in a spice grinder, or crush with a pestle and mortar, then pass through a sieve into a jar or airtight container. Will keep for 2-3 weeks.

STEP 2

Heat the oil in a wok. Scatter in the mustard seeds and curry leaves. When they sizzle, add the onion, leek, garlic, chilli, celery and a pinch of salt, and cook, stirring, for 8-10 mins until the onion starts to colour. Add the curry powder and cook for 1 min more, then add the tomatoes, veg, coconut milk, a tsp of salt and 200ml water. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for 10-15 mins until the veg are tender.

STEP 3

For the dumplings, boil the lentils in a pan of water until just cooked, then drain. Melt the coconut oil in a pan, then add the mustard seeds and curry leaves and cook until sizzling. Remove from the heat and allow to cool slightly. Put the lentils, flour, chilli, onion, spices, desiccated coconut, lime juice and 1 tsp salt in a bowl. Mix with your hands until combined, then add the coconut oil and aromatics and mix to a dough. Form into 12 dumplings, then put on top of the stew, cover with a lid and cook on low for 5 mins. Top with pepper, coriander and spring onion to serve.

What makes The Rig infectious

Do you like Stephen King’s The Mist? What about Avatar, Aliens, The Andromeda Strain, or Manifest? Braveheart: thumbs up, or down?

If you said “yes” to all of the above, then you’re going to love the Prime Video series The Rig, a supernatural thriller about the strange happenings that befall a Scottish oil rig in the North Sea.

You name it, The Rig has it: corporate greed, environmental impact, disaster, infection, worker’s rights, and so on. It’s a series that borrows liberally from these and other films and TV series to create something unique... and very good.

The Natural Attacks the Unnatural in ‘The Rig’ The Rig is the biggest series Prime Video has ever made in Scotland, and the first to be made exclusively in the country.

The tale begins aboard Kinloch Bravo, an oil rig in the North Sea off the coast of Scotland, owned by energy company Pictor. On a day the crew aboard Kinloch Bravo is due to be brought back to the mainland on a team changeover, the rig is hit by a tremor, which causes a blackout and cuts

off communication. The helicopters being used to accommodate the switchover are forced to return to Scotland, leaving the tired, frustrated workers stranded aboard. But the sun’s still shining, and everyone is accounted for, so all is well. Until it isn’t. A thick fog encompasses the rig, and, like every good supernatural smoke show, there’s something mysterious about it. The fog is filled with ash, and as the ashes fall on the workers, strange things begin to happen. Physical injuries heal quickly. Tooth fillings are expelled. Tattoos melt off in the shower, leading to a grim death for one worker.

Rose ( Emily Hampshire ), a scientist and company representative, determines that whatever is in the ash reacts violently with inorganic matter, repairs organic matter, and, strangely, seems to have established a psychic connection of sorts with one of the workers. She surmises that it’s a natural force attacking the unnatural, the people and things that don’t belong on the sea... and she’s not wrong. The fact that all of this occurs on an isolated oil rig

is the one thing that truly separates The Rig from its inspirations. It adds plausibility to what’s happening. Once communications are cut off, they’re totally alone. There’s no running to the neighbours, or swimming to shore, and it’s not safe for anyone to come for them. The oil rig setting adds a chilling element of claustrophobia to the proceedings as well. Not only are they being infected with something they do not understand, there is no escape even inside the structure. Additionally, that oil rig setting is a perfect shorthand visual for that theme of the natural versus the unnatural. There is nothing that can be done with an oil rig that will ever make it look like it belongs on the sea. No clever architecture that blends it into its surroundings, no hiding behind rocks and trees. It’s brilliant in its simplicity. And when we learn the devious plans of Pictor, the evil corporation that owns Kinloch Bravo, it borders on genius.

Image via Amazon Prime Video

The Rig does have elements that don’t always

Netflix 5

you can now stream on

1. Savage Beauty

The plot centres on a South African global beauty empire and the face of the brand, Zinhle Manzini (Rosemary Zimu), who returns 15 years later with a score to settle and secrets to expose. From 2022, it stars Zimu (Champagne) alongside the likes of Dumisani Mbebe (Primeval) and Nthati Moshesh (Ayanda).

Alongside a 100% Rotten Tomatoes tomatometre score, Savage Beauty has a still solid popcornmetre score of 66. Delving deep into beauty standards, the series has been praised online for being ‘a marvel to watch’, alongside being applauded for it’s ‘powerful cast’.

2. The Order

The American horror drama premiered on Netflix in March, 2019, running for two seasons before being canceled in November 2020.

The Order is set around a college and a secret society that teaches and practices magic called the Hermetic Order of the Blue Rose. However, when one freshman decides to delve deeper into the society, he ends up uncovering a dark history.

The series stars the likes of Jake Manley (Holidate), Sarah Grey (Almost Human) and Adam DiMarco (The White Lotus).

3. Better Than Us

work. Some of the CGI is dodgy, the environmental message is hammered home a little more often than it needs to be, and if you’re familiar with its influences, then you’re familiar with where it’s going, but only to a point. It quickly takes those influences in an unexpected direction, engaging the audience with the promise of something different. The cast, too, is good, pulling you into the narrative on the strength of their performances. More importantly, The Rig dares to ask deeper questions of its audience. What happens if the Earth isn’t just an idea or a concept to rally around, but a living, breathing entity? Does mankind embrace it, learn from it, and work in partnership with it, or do they attack it, unsure of its intentions, willing to sacriLce the future for what it can reap now? Can our ethics be bought? For two seasons, The Rig has asked these questions without giving answers, and if all things go well, we’ll see if a third season gives any answers... or just more questions. It’s what makes The Rig infectious.

Created by Andrey Junkovsky, Aleksandr Dagan and Aleksandr Kessel, the 2018 sci-fi series was originally produced for for the Russian state channel C1R. However, it went on to become the first Russian series presented as a Netflix original series. Set in 2029 – the not so distant future, making it even more of a goosepimpling watch – the series centres on a prototype of a new android named Arisa (Paulina Andreeva). But what will happen when Arisa is abused by humans, goes against Asimov’s Three Laws of Robotics and forms a close bond with a child?

4. Pantheon

The American animated sci-fi series is based on a series of short stories by Ken Liu and was created by Craig Silverstein. The first season premiered in September 2022 and re-released on Amazon Prime Video the following year, a second season following in October 2023. The series sees a young woman begin receiving messages claiming to be sent from her late father. In a bid to find out whether her dad is really alive, she ends up flung into the world of tech and unravelling a conspiracy far bigger than she could’ve ever imagined – could another world war be looming?

5. Scavenger’s Reign

The plot of this 2023 production centres on the remaining crew members of damaged interstellar freighter ship who’ve crash-landed on a beautiful, but dangerous alien planet, faced with the challenge of surviving long enough to be rescued or to try and escape themselves.

Alongside a perfect Rotten Tomatoes tomatometre score, Scavenger’s Reign holds an impressive popcornmetre score of 96% and those who have heard of it and watched it before it was canceled by after just one season in May 2024 have shared their support for the series online.

Scavenger’s Reign was sadly canceled after just one season (Max)

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Call for clubs and organisations to join this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade! As part of the ongoing celebrations for St. Patrick’s Festival, the organisers invite local businesses, community groups, clubs, and charities to participate in this year’s grand parade on March 17th. Local communities are the heart of the St Patrick’s Day parade, and it’s a fabulous opportunity to showcase your talent. The process is quick and easy, fill out a short online application, and remember, there are prizes for the best displays! https://stpatricksfestivalkilkenny.com/. The theme is Bí Beo, Bí Linn, be alive, be with us - to embrace a vibrant, community-driven display from [your town] in this year’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 17th.

CLARA NEWS

Ireland Lights Up - Club walking track is open Mondays and Thursdays from 6-7pm. Everybody welcome.

ST. KIERANS WIN

Well done to Clara’s Luke Lawlor, David Barcoe, Conor Hoyne and Pádraic Meany who all featured in Nowlan Park on Wednesday in a scintillating Leinster Senior hurling final between age old rivals St. Kieran’s College and Kilkenny CBS. Normally the “College” have the upper hand in these contests but there have been signs over the last three years or so that the gap is closing, as the CBS have assembled a very strong cohort of hurlers in their school. This year’s renewal turned out to be one of the best Leinster finals ever played, going all the way to penalties. It was hard luck on the CBS and on Pádraic Meany who came on as a substitute despite being only a fourth year. Luke Lawlor was one of the big heroes for Kieran’s, making several great saves including the first CBS penalty which left them on the back foot. David Barcoe was flawless as usual for the College and Conor Hoyne saw action when the game was really in the melting pot, and helped Kieran’s get over the line. With both teams progressing in the All Ireland series good luck to all going forward.

FOOTBALL

Clara senior footballers began their campaign with a 2-7 to 2-2 loss to Mullinavat in Mullinavat on Saturday. In driving wind and rain, the day started well for the visitors when a Harry Boyle attempt at a point dipped viciously into the top corner of the net. This was followed by a point each from two of the lively looking young guns, Philip Carrigan and Joe Power, and Clara were five up with the aid of the elements. However they failed to score again for the rest of the half and actually only scored once more for the entire game. That was a late consolation goal from Jack Langton, who rose highest to get his fist to a cross with five minutes remaining. In between Mullinavat scored 2-6, most of it coming from their best forward Oisín Knox. Some positives for Clara were the performances of their newer brigade who are eligible for adult fare for the first time this year. Philip Carrigan, Davy Barcoe, Joe Power and Hugh Kelly all showed that they won’t be one bit overawed by senior competition and Mayo newcomer Diarmuid Walsh also showed glimpses of his pedigree during the 20 minutes he was on the field.

Team - Rory O Keeffe, Paddy Bolger, Alan Coleman, Brandon Ryan. Philip Carrigan 0-1, Jack Langton 1-0, Davy Barcoe. Martin O Connell, Cian Kelly. Harry Boyle 1-0, Liam Ryan, Sean Carrigan. Joe Power 0-1, Chris Bolger, Hugh Kelly. Subs used Dara Glynn, Killian Phelan, Conor O Shea, Diarmuid Walsh, Daniel Ryan.

CLUB LOTTO

Lotto results for 28thJanuary. No Jackpot winner. Numbers drawn - 5, 23, 25. €30 Lucky Dip Winners; Mary Nolan, John Murphy, Nolan Family, Jimmy Cody and Peter Nolan.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE

O’Loughlin Gaels senior football team played its first game under the new rules when it took on Kilmoganny in Dunnamaggin on Saturday last. The game was a learning experience for all involved: players, management and referee! On the day the Kilmoganny team proved too strong for O’Loughlin’s. The next game against Tullogher Rosbercon is scheduled for February 16th in St John’s Park. HANDBALL SUCCESS

Congratulations to O’Loughlin’s Handball Club’s Kate Skehan and Ollie Morrissey won the Gael Linn Under 13 Mixed Doubles Leinster Championship 2025. They defeated Wexford and Westmeath opposition in Croke Park on their way to the title.

ALLIANZ HURLING LEAGUE

Kilkenny lost out to Galway on Sunday in the second round of the Allianz Hurling League in UPMC Nowlan Park. Hard luck to O’Loughlin Gaels’ Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Paddy Deegan, Luke Hogan and Jordan Molloy who were all part of the Kilkenny team. They will be in action again on Saturday at 5.30pm against Wexford in Wexford. NIGHT OF CELEBRATION

O’Loughlin Gaels hold a Dinner Dance and Night of Celebration on 22nd February in Langton House Hotel. The Club hopes all members and supporters will be there.

There will be a three course meal, DJ, and Medal presentation to our Intermediate Camogie County Champions. Tickets available from the Club bar. Any queries contact 086 8919312. Don’t miss out on a great club occasion.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations from all in O’Loughlin Gaels to St. John’s Parish Team Leader and new Monsignor Dan Carroll, who, in recognition of his service to the Diocese of Ossory as Vicar General, has had the title of Chaplain to His Holiness conferred on him by Pope Francis. The honour brings with it the title of Monsignor.

EASTER AND SUMMER CAMPS

The dates have been fixed for the O’Loughlin Gaels Easter and Summer Camps. The Easter Camp will run from 14th-18th April and the Summer Camps between July 21st and August 1st. Details on how to book will be publicised closer to the camp start dates.

CLUB LOTTO

There was one winner of O’Loughlin Gaels’ Club Lotto dated January 28th. Congratulations to Lorraine Scanlon who had 4 numbers in draw winning a prize of €7,600. The Promotor was Esther Maher.

The Numbers drawn were 3, 4, 10, 24 and the Bonus Number was 5. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com. Thank you for your continued support

MAYFAIR LIBRARY

Kilkenny Library Service offers a range of free online resources to library members eg ebooks, language courses, movies, newspapers, magazines, history. To help you register, Mayfair staff are hosting tutorials on Fridays from 11.30-12.30 on a drop-in basis. For more information Tel 7794174

BOOKINGS FOR OCCASIONS

O’Loughlin Gaels Club boasts the best club facilities for its members in the city. With plenty of free parking, kitchen, bar and lounge facilities available it can cater for all your party needs. Contact 086-8919312 to book your special occasion-christening, communion, confirmation, birthdays and anniversaries, special wedding guest gatherings or any group occasion you require. The large Hall is available for larger community events and the space outside is safe and secure for all the family.

NOTES

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

FRESHFORD

GAA NEWS

St Lachtain’s hurling panel who are Junior County Champions and All Ireland Club Champions of 2024 along with their management were presented to supporters during half time at the Kilkenny v Galway NHL match in Nowlan Park last Sunday. It was a huge honour for St. Lachtain’s GAA club to have their teams’ achievements acknowledged on such a stage. Kilkenny GAA supporters club also presented a cheque to club chairman John Fitzpatrick in recognition of winning the Junior All Ireland and thanks goes to Kilkenny County Board and The Supporters Club for organising the event.

BORD NA NOG AGM

St. Lachtain’s GAA Bord na nOg AGM was held in the clubhouse last Friday evening. Kevin Dalton and Imelda Kennedy were reappointed as Chairperson and Secretary respectively. Juvenile membership is open for the 2025 season at €40 for a player or €150 for a family of 4 and €20 per additional child.

LIVERPOOL TICKETS

The draw for our Liverpool ticket competition has been extended by one week to next Monday February 10th. This is your chance to enter and win Liverpool tickets, flights and two nights’ accommodation. Check our social media pages for details on how to enter the raffle.

EVERY STEP COUNTS 2025:

St Lachtain’s GAA Club are again taking part in “Every Step Counts Challenge” run by the GAA and Irish Life. The event is open to everyone in the community, young and old, members and non-members. The goal is to collectively achieve 4000km by walking, jogging or running between January 8th and February 12th. Details on how to register can be found on our social media pages. So get involved as time is running out!

COMMUNITY ALERT

Freshford / Threecastles Community Alert Group held their AGM on Thursday evening last in the Community Hall. They discussed the cameras which are all up and running in the community, Text alert numbers are very good at present and everyone is looking out for each other. The following officers were elected for the forthcoming year – Chairperson – John Bergin, Secretary –Jacinta Power, Treasurer – Mick Cormack, PRO – Anna Morrissey

CAMOGIE

Congrats to local girls Michelle Killeen, Abbi Whitty, Emma and Katlyn O’Connor, Saoirse Hickey and Sarah Hickey who were on the Scoil Muire team and panel when they won the Post primary B All Ireland semi final on Saturday beating Cork side Courcey Rovers. Another local girl Ciara Hickey was part of the Presentation secondary school side who also won at the weekend.

NUENNA GROUP

Start the New Year the right way living longer stronger and healthier lives. Have fun while improving your fitness with the local Nuenna social community group. An eight week programme was due to have begun on 7th January but due to weather conditions couldn’t go ahead. It will be held every Tuesday at 6.30am and Thursdays at 6pm at Freshford GAA grounds. Membership to Nuenna AC club for the year is €60 .

BINGO

The North Kilkenny Wheelchair association weekly bingo resumed on Friday night last and will continue each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm with good prize money and a raffle each week. So why not go along and bring a friend and support a very worthy cause.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is closed for the months of January and February and will reopen in March

SOCCER

Freshford Town Junior side were in action on Sunday morning last when they took on neighbours Tullaroan in home league game. The game ended all square at 1-1 with Darren Brennan scoring for the home side In the schoolboys section the U12 boys had a 1-0 win against Evergreen at home with the goal coming from Tom Dalton.

SPLIT THE POT

The winner of Split the pot was Bobby Bergin who won €229. The proceeds for the month of January went to the local Community Café and activity space which is a great facility for the village. February proceeds go to Threecastles Hall. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs. Revolut is also available on 08330411011 with your name and address.

LOOP CAFE

The Loop Community Café in Freshford held a very successful cake sale on Saturday morning last and they thank all those who supported their fund raiser and all those who donated cakes or helped in any way. They are looking for people on both sides of the counter. So why not support your own local café and with weather conditions and all recently it makes sense to stay local. Meet a friend or friends for a chat and cup or some lovely homemade food. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The

Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. 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.

PAINTING

And while you are in the Loop café having a cupa or a chat, or reading your free copy of the Kilkenny Observer you will see a beautiful painting hanging on the wall of the village green by Michael Cantwell. Michael has again kindly donated it to the Loop Café as a fundraiser. So a big thank you to Michael for his generosity. Tickets are on sale at €5 each for this beautiful painting and can be obtained at the Café.

FOROIGE

Foroige youth club has resumed after an extended Christmas break. The group 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 interest in joining please sign up while there are still spaces. They are also looking for adult volunteers. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie

PARISH NEWS

Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church is held on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.Sunday Maas is held in St. Lachtain’s Church on Sunday at11.00am The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office. 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. 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 25235 21 HELP FOR ALL

Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342. If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808. SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm). AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

SENIOR FOOTBALL

On Saturday afternoon the senior footballers took full advantage of a strong wind to carve out a deserved 2-07 to 0-04 victory over Tullogher Rosbercon in their first outing of the 2025 senior football league/championship campaign. Showing serious intent from the throw-in, midfielder Niall Delaney finished a neat passing movement for a point in the 1st minute. Continuing their pressing game Sean Manogue kicked over a second point in the 9th minute before the game changing scores arrived via clinical goal finishes by David Walton following neat passing movements by his team-mates in the 10th and 12th minutes for a commanding 2-02 to 0-00 lead for the home team. Further points from Sean Manogue, Fionn Cody and Luke Scanlon followed to give James Stephens a comfortable 2-05 to 0-00 lead at half time. On the turnover Tullogher, with the strong wind at their backs, applied continuous pressure but the James Stephens defence, with huge determination, held tight until the 8th minute when Tullogher registered their first score. Persistent Tullogher pressure was rewarded however with a penalty award in the 10th minute but, the opportunity was spurned when the kick floated over the bar. Another slice of good luck came in the 18th minute when team captain Ryan Scanlon was called on to make a diving save to deflect the ball around the goalpost denying Tullogher Rosbercon a near certain three pointer. Over the closing quarter, wisely, the Village selectors introduced fresh legs to support the pressurised defence and when Tadhg O’Dwyer and Dinny Stapleton kicked over late points the result was sealed for the Village at 2-07 to 0-04. In defence Sam McEvoy, Luke Murphy, David Hennessy, Luke Hickey, Ben Lawlor and Mikey Byrne were unbeatable throughout and with serious back up from Niall Delaney, Niall Mullins, Luke Scanlon

O’Loughlin’s Handball Club’s Kate Skehan and Ollie Morrissey, winners of the Gael Linn Under 13 Mixed Doubles Leinster Championship 2025.

and Eoin Deely there were few scoring opportunities for the southern club to capitalise on over the hour. A promising start to the season for both the players and the management team. Next outing will be against Kilmoganny on Sunday week,16th February, in Dunnamaggin.

VINCENT DE PAUL

The St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the St. Vincent De Paul would like to thank all who donated most generously during the Christmas period and throughout the year, 2024. “The Conference greatly appreciates the financial donations, including anonymous contributions, the various voucher types, food, and funds from fundraisers that we received. Our thanks to the staff, the Parent’s Council and pupils from the St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys school for the items collected from their Christmas Hamper Appeal. Again, thank you all so much, the Conference really appreciates everyone’s generosity”. (Members of St. Patrick’s Conference of St. Vincent De Paul) COLLEGE SUCCESS

On Wednesday afternoon, following a penalty shoot-out, St. Kieran’s College claimed a 59th Leinster senior colleges hurling title following a pulsating finish to the title decider against Kilkenny CBS that ended level at 1-15 to 2-22 in UPMC Nowlan Park. Club star Noah Manogue along with Cian Phelan and Jake Mullen won the day for The College with three successful goal strikes. Also playing their part in the back-to-back winning side were team captain Sean Deely, Ed Lauhoff, Bill McDermott and substitute Diarmuid Behan. The College panel also included Dara Behan, Larry Phelan, Conor McEvoy and Conor Heffernan. Zac Scanlon lined out at full forward for Kilkenny CBS and the substitute’s bench included club players Padraig Joyce, James Bergin, Tuan Hyland, Andrew Brennan and Darragh Power. In such circumstances there had to be winners and losers nevertheless it was great for the club to have such a strong representation on two outstanding school’s teams who are still in contention for the Dr. Croke Cup.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

Following their morale boosting victory over Clare in Ennis the previous weekend Kilkenny received a sobering reminder of the highly competitive nature of the ‘Roinn A’ National league programme of games when a rejuvenated Galway arrived in UPMC Nowlan Park on Sunday to take the honours with a 2-19 to 1-19 victory at the conclusion of an entertaining fixture. Despite the defeat, clubman Cian Kenny when operating around midfield put in a huge effort shooting over three long range points from open play to help keep Kilkenny competitive right to the final whistle. Next up the Cats travel to Wexford Park on Saturday evening to take on the wearers of the Purple and Gold jerseys, who will be bidding to turn their season around following defeats to Cork and Tipperary. It won’t be easy.

FUN RUN

Organiser Richie Manogue reports that the club’s annual St. Stephen’s Day Fun Run has, once again, proved to be a wonderful success with entry fees totalling € 2,600. Richie would like to thank all who participated, the many club safety stewards who manned the course and the Gardai for their support making the event such a wonderful community-based success around the Festive season. A bank transfer to the value of €1,300 was made to the club’s chosen charity partner, The School of The Holy Spirit, in recent days.

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 12, 14, 2, 23. There was no winner. The €40 consolation winners were Cora O’ Neill, Laura/Deirdre/Derrick, Mary Grace, Mary Forrest and M.J. Comerford.

GOWRAN

DALTON HOUSE DAY CARE

Chair Exercise Class starting Monday, 10th February at 11am

Art Classes every Tuesday from 10am to 12 noon. Come along to Music night every Wednesday from 8pm or just enjoy a cup of tea and a chat.

For more info on any of the above please ring 056 7726718.

GOWRAN PANTO

Don’t forget to book tickets to this year’s panto Rapunzel - starting on February 18th and running till February 23rd. Tickets are on sale now but are selling fast. Book now on gowranpanto.com/tickets

GOWRAN AC

Trés bonne nouvelle des Pyrénées

Great results coming from France, where Gowran’s Martin Desgrandchamps won gold at the Trail Nocturne De L’écoparc Catalan. A tough 33km trail run through the Pyrénées, Martin completed the race in a time of 2:48:04, fantastic Martin.

GOWRAN PARK

Red Mills day takes place on Saturday, 15th February. Return bus ticket is 10€. First race is at 1.20pm.

YOUNG IRELANDS GAA

Congratulations to all involved in Nowlan Park in the Leinster School’s Final. Young Irelands had 5 players on the St Kieran’s panel; Jim Conlon, Cian Phelan, Jake Byrne, Thomas Langton and Kieran Timmins. Meanwhile CBS Kilkenny had Kealan Barcoe and Sam Brennan on their squad. The game was level at full time. It was all square after extra time. Penalties decided the game - and it was Cian Phelan who sealed the deal with a third goal for St Kieran’s. Congratulations to both schools on a super game and a huge well done to players involved in both schools.

ST PATRICK’S DAY

Call for Gowran clubs and organisations to join this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade! As part of the ongoing celebrations for St. Patrick’s Festival, the organisers invite local businesses, community groups, clubs, and charities to participate in this year’s grand parade on March 17th. Local communities are the heart of the St Patrick’s Day parade, and it’s a fabulous opportunity to showcase your talent. The process is quick and easy, fill out a short online application https://stpatricksfestivalkilkenny.com/. The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 17th

BENNETTSBRIDGE

CHURCH NEWS

JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE

2025 has been designated as a year of hope in the diocese. A Diocesan banner installed on the altar highlights this.

ST BLAISE

The Feast Day of St Blaise was observed in the traditional way in Tullaherin Parish over last weekend. Many parishioners received the Blessing of the Throats over the few days.

MASSES

Thursday and Friday mornings, 10.30am. Saturday (Tullaherin) 8.00pm. Sunday (Bennettsbridge) 10.30am.

FIRST COMMUNION PREPARATION MASS

The next First Communion Preparation Mass will be celebrated on Sunday 9th March. Meeting of the coordinating parents will be held on Monday 24th February 7pm in the Church sacristy.

CHURCH FLOWERS

Volunteers needed to assist with floral arrangements in Bennettsbridge Church. Please contact, Maria 086 3335949 or Eileen 087 2255475.

OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

The 2025 Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes takes place 19th May/24th May( 5 nights direct from Cork Airport) Details from Martin Culleton at 012410800.

CHRISTIAN UNITY WEEK 2025

During Christian Unity Week, Bishop Niall Coll was delighted to be a preacher at the Eucharist in St Canice’s Church of Ireland Cathedral in Kilkenny. He was also present at schools in the city for Catholic Schools Week. In the CBS Secondary School, Ist Year Students were asked to invite their Grandparents to the school for a cuppa and chat. This was extra special for Grandparents, teachers and students as it marked the last time that the event will be held in James Street. Next year they will be in the new school on Dunningstown Road. Grandparents and students enjoyed an afternoon with music, tea and chat provided by the older students. Lucy Ryan welcomed everybody and gave Principal Tom Clarke’s apologies. A video of the work on the new school was shown also a clip of the impressive new building when it is complete.

The students brought their grandparents on a tour of the school where much interest centered on the many photographs in the corridors spanning many years of sporting and academic achievements.

GATHERING GROUP

Meetings continue each week in the Community Centre.

Usual activities enjoyed including, tea, chat, chair exercises, rings, bingo. Sympathy went to member, Liz Conlon who has been bereaved by the death of her sister, Breda Kelly, Larchfield, Kilkenny.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Liz Conlan, Woodlawn and Jim Barcoe, on the death of their sister, Breda Kelly (née Barcoe) (Larchfield, Kilkenny) at University Hospital Waterford.

ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

For many years the Bennettsbridge community was involved in the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Kilkenny. The late Seamus Lawlor comes to mind in this regard. His floats invariably won awards for many years. This year the organisers are asking local groups to get involved. Call for Bennettsbridge clubs and organisations to join this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade!

LOTTO

There was no winner of the Jackpot last week. Numbers drawn were 9, 14, 17, 25. Consolation Prizes, Jack Bolger, O’Donnell’s, Eileen McGrath, Station Road, Abbie O’Brien, Marian Place, Liam McEvoy, Gowran Road, BB Syndicate.

ART

Art classes continue each Monday from 2 to 4pm under the direction of tutor, Julie Moorhouse. Last week a special celebration was included to mark Elma Khareghani’s birthday.

CAMOGIE CLUB

Some of our players have been keeping Bennettsbridge on the map in recent days. On Saturday, Holly Ryan and Erin Morrissey helped Loreto to a win over Presentation Thurles in the All Ireland Senior A Post Primary semi-final. Loreto 0.13. Pres Thurles, 0.03. On Sunday, Holly and Erin featured on the winning Kilkenny team over Dublin.in the Leinster U16A. Also on Sunday, Lauren Skehan was on the winning Kilkenny Team over Laois in the Leinster U 16B

CAMOGIE TABLE QUIZ

Our Junior team is hosting a quiz night in O’ Donnell’s Pub this Friday 7th of February, starting at 8pm sharp. Tables of four €20. Raffle prizes, food and music on the night. Please come and support, all support greatly appreciated.

CLOTHES COLLECTION

A reminder of February clothes collection, proceeds for

the Camogie Club. Drop off points and dates for clothes collection: GAA Clubhouse. Friday 7th February 2.30pm3.00pm. Friday 7th February 5.00pm-7.00pm. Saturday 8th February 10.00am-12.00pm. The more bags we fill, the more money we raise so please fill as many bags as you can. Thank you in advance for your support.

GAA

Membership 2025

Club membership for the coming year is now being collected. Membership can be paid to Samantha McGarry or to any committee member. Fees for non-playing members, 40 euro, student players 80 euro and adult players 120 euro. Membership can also be paid online through club spot. Early payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2025 start to come in. Club and County Games

Well done to David Blanchfield who played centre back on the Kilkenny senior team against Galway in the second round of the national league last week. Best wishes in the upcoming game against Wexford next Sunday. Bennettsbridge junior footballers got the season underway last Saturday with a good 3-10 to 2 points away to Slievreue. Best wishes to our young players involved with various squads at the minute and to Bill Hughes on the DCU panel in the Fitzgibbon cup.

Steps Challenge 2025

The Life step challenge is well underway and has attracted a good response. To keep in touch, download My life App. Go to social / challenges / My life Every Step counts / provinces / leinster/ Bennettsbridge.

Split the Pot

Well done to Bill Nolan who won 238 euro, Kellie Carpenter who won 30 euro and to Charlie and Robbie Dowling who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the continued support.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES

Should you wish 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

1st Prize Annie and Sean Hickey, €450, 2nd Prize Jenny Butler € 50, 3rd Prize S.W.M. 25Euro .4th Prize 25Euros and the following won 25Euros Tanya and Maureen, Bernie Carroll, and Tucker Holden. Money raised through Tidy Towns Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all the year round. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

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 many from the surrounding district also join in. The next Session is on Friday February 14th 2025 at 8.00pm

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Monday to Friday 10 AM, Saturday 7.00PM, and Sunday 11.00am.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

MENS SHED

The next get-together of the Mens Shed for Goresbridge, Paulstown & Gowran takes place at 11 am on Tuesday, the 11th of February at the Goresbridge health centre R95FX09”

BRIDGE UNITED

The Bridge Academy started 25th January 2025 for boys and girls (aged 4-7). Information from Conor English 085 1321 589.

February is Referee Month, and the FAI are running 23 inperson courses in each region across the Country. If you or anyone you know would like to become a Referee, please visit becomearef.ie or apply through the COMET App CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses in Goresbridge are held at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday and in Paulstown at 11.30am on Sunday. Mass at 10am in Goresbridge on Wednesday and at 11am on Friday in Paulstown. Adoration each Tuesday in Paulstown from end of mass to 6pm IN FOR A CHAT

Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) takes place every Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

SPLIT THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie

DICKSBORO

LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 30th January 2025. Nos, 14 15 25 27. Jackpot not won. Draw Prizes €50: Conor Fitzpatrick c/o B Fitzpatrick. €25 each Paul Donlon c/o Online. €25 each Shane OBrien c/o Online. €25 each Maggie O’Donoghue c/o Tom O’Donoghue. Hurlers Co Op Draw K Fitzpatrick c/o B Fitzpatrick. Promotors prize, Seamus Rochford

MEMBERSHIP 2025

Members can now renew their membership through ClubZap for the 2025 season. The Club asks that all mem-

bers renew their membership as soon as possible and in particular before teams return to training and games. Any questions please refer to Jim ONeill Club Registrar.

DICKSBORO LIGHTS UP

Thanks to everyone who has participated in our “Lights Up” evenings which has been a huge success. A reminder that they will continue on Monday evenings and Thursday evenings at 7pm, feel free to bring along friends or family, the more the merrier!!

DICKSBORO GOES TO THE RACES

A Club Fundraiser and Social Night will be held at Palmerstown Clubhouse on March 7th at 7.30pm. We will also be presenting our Senior Footballers and u21 Hurling Champions with their medals. Please come out and support a great night. You can see ClubZapp for all the details on this important Fundraiser and how you can support or alternatively contact Club Treasuer Jason Dempsey.

SAINT MARY’S PARISH

PLEASE REMEMBER THE FOLLOWING IN YOUR PRAYERS

ANNIVERSARIES

11.00am – James (Jimmy) Culleton, Old Callan Road, Liam and Conor Delahunty, Castleinch, Jerry, Marie and Angela Davis, St Teresa’s Tce., JJ Murphy, Rushbrook, Sean Cantwell, St Francis Tce. and those whose anniversaries occur about this time Maura Gaffney, Annie Ruth, Annie Moynihan, Tom Piert, Sarah (Ciss) Walsh, Edward Walsh, Michael Delaney, Ann Culleton, Nancy Culleton, Adrian Freeney.

OSSORY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 19TH25TH MAY 2025

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

WEEKLY ENVELOPES

Envelopes are now ready for distribution and can be collected at the parish office. Thank you to all who distribute our envelopes. It is much appreciate

MEDJUGORJE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL Medjugorje International Youth Festival 2nd to 9th August 2025. Spiritual Director Rev. David Lane. €799.00 half board including flights from Cork. Travel with Joe Walsh Tours. Group Leader Anna O’Shaughnessy 089 4038650 /0862959380. Only 25 places available for this group.

JUBILEE YEAR 2025

In conjunction with the Jubilee Year 2025, themed Pilgrims of Hope, which officially opened on Christmas Eve with the opening of the Holy Door at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, the Catholic Bishops of Ireland have launched an official Jubilee page on catholicbishops.ie. This dedicated page will serve as a central hub for all Jubilee-related updates, ensuring we remain informed about events and activities taking place both in Ireland and around the world. The site offers a comprehensive hub for all things Jubileeproviding downloadable resources, an event calendar for the year to promote and feature activities across Ireland and Rome, as well as hosting inspiring videos highlighting people and events from across the island.

LISTENING TO THE VOICES OF WOMEN IN THE BIBLE This Conference will be on 15th February 2025. Venue: The Pembroke Hotel, Patrick Street, Kilkenny. The speaker: Dr. Gráinne Doherty. Times: 10.00 am-4.30pm. Cost: €20 (includes tea/coffee) pay on the door. Booking essential: Contact Sara or Catherina @ 056 7722870 Monday to Friday or e-mail regionaloffice@ssjg.ie before 11 February 2025. MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE May 28th 2025. Cost €849 pps with discount (€949 thereafter). All who travel with this group entered into a draw for this group only, to win base cost of the pilgrimage. Group Leader Sean O’Shaughnessy 0862959390. Still a few seats available. Tour Operator Joe Walsh Ceardlann na hArdteiste 2025/Leaving Cert Irish Oral Exam Workshop 2025 IRISH ORAL WORKSHOP

A three part Leaving Cert Irish Oral Workshop which will cover all elements of the Leaving Cert Irish Oral exam will take place Johnswell Community Hall on the following date: 8th, 15th and 22nd of March. These workshops will provide an opportunity for students to learn, prepare and practice for their upcoming Leaving Cert Irish Oral Exam. To book or for further information please contact tobarnagaeilge@yahoo.com or 0876673302 (Maria Ní Thuama).

BOOKSHOP

St Mary’s Cathedral, Chapter House Bookshop welcomes you to visit the shop which is now open 5 days a week. Monday 9.30am till 1.00pm and Tuesday - Friday 9.30am till 5.00pm.

ROTA

Readers Next Weekend 11am M. Finnegan, 5.30pm T. Lawlor.

Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am B. Quinn, D. Quinn, J. Campion. 5.30pm K. Meighan, B. Cagney.

YOUR PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPRESENTATIVES Sr. Betty Cagney and Martina Lawlor.

KILMACOW

CHURCH DATES

Confirmation will be held in St. Senan’s Church, Kilmacow at 11.am on Friday, 7th March. First Holy Communion will

Tom Healy

Community & GAA Notes

be held there at 11.00am on Saturday, 17th May.

PILGRIMAGE TO MEDJUGORJE

Bookings are now being taken for a pilgrimage to Medjugorje from 18th to 25th June. The cost is €855. Please contact Pat and Mary Doyle for details.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 6, 8, 20 and 21.

SOUTH KILKENNY BEEKEEPERS ASSOCIATION

The Association will host a beekeeping course for beginners in Kildalton College from Wednesday, 19th February. For more details please e-mail skbaeducation@hotmail. com.

RECYCLING

Almost 36 tonnes of recyclables were brought to the bring centre in the car-park opposite Shamrock Grove in 2024. It represents an increase of over 5% on the amount brought in 2023.

CREATIVE IRELAND

Kilkenny County Council has invited applications from creative practitioners, community groups and individuals for projects under the Creative Ireland Grants Scheme ’25. Grant levels range from €500 to €3,000. Applications forms are available at www.kilkennycoco.ie. For more information please contact Majella Keating at 056 779 4338 or by email at creativeireland@kilkennycoco.ie. The closing date for completed applications is Friday, 21st February ’25.

RURAL ROADS SPEED LIMITS

Kilkenny County Council has commenced the implementation of the new 60kph/h default speed limit on rural roads. Though work was held up by recent weather events the Department of Transport has set the changeover date for Thursday, 6th February.

MULLINAVAT

MULLINAVAT WIN

Mullinavat’s first senior football outing of the year was played under the new Gaelic Football rules in wet conditions at the local GAA Grounds last Saturday. Having fallen behind to Clara in the opening ten minutes Mullinavat recovered to lead by two points at half-time and extended this lead to five points by the time the whistle for full-time was blown.

Wind assisted Clara began the better and inside ten minutes, with a lobbed goal by Harry Boyle and points from Philip Corrigan and Joe Power found themselves five points ahead. But Mullinavat then got to grips with the opposition and with the conditions and displayed some fine passing movements, including a storming solo by Michael Malone which led to Oisín Knox finishing the ball to the back of the Clara net. Points tagged on saw Mullinavat ahead 1-4 to 1-2 going into the half-time break.

Mullinavat retained control of the match in the second half and a Pádraig Walsh goal mid-way through it virtually sealed victory as the result from then on, despite a punched Jack Langton goal for Clara on twenty-two minutes, was not really in doubt. Mullinavat were worthy winners 2-7 to 2-2.

Mullinavat: Jack Walsh, Michael Walsh, Ian Mansfield, Sean Fitzpatrick, Padraic Gahan, Ger Malone, John Walsh, Tom Aylward, James Culleton, Conor Duggan, Michael Malone, Fiachra Knox, Oisín Knox (1-5), Brian Phelan (0-1), Jamie Davis. Subs: Padraig Walsh (1-0) for Jamie Davis, Jack Byrne Doyle for Padraic Gahan, Cian McDonnell for Conor Duggan.

Clara: Rory O’Keeffe, Paddy Bolger, Alan Colman, Brandon Ryan. Philip Carrigan (0-1), Jack Langton (1-0), David Barcoe, Martin O’Connell, Cian Kelly, Harry Boyle (1-0), Liam Ryan, Sean Carrigan, Joe Power (0-1), Chris Bolger, Hugh Kelly. Subs: Dara Glynn for Daniel Kelly for Cian Kelly, Conor O’Shea, Killian Phelan.

Referee: John O’Gorman (Dicksboro).

LOCAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME

Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee is inviting applications from community groups for capital projects and for current operational (non-pay) costs.

Groups will be able to use the capital element of funding (to a maximum of €5,000) to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities and purchase equipment. Groups will be able to use the current element of funding to support their non-pay running costs for example energy costs/bills electricity costs, refuse charges, insurance and heating to a maximum of €1,000). There are separate application forms for both capital and current funding grants. Application forms and guidance notes can be downloaded from the Council’s website www.kilkennycoco.ie or can be requested by e-mail at communitygrants@kilkennycoco.ie. The closing date for completed applications is Friday, 14th February.

MULLINAVAT MATTERS

The next general meeting of Mullinavat Matters will be held at 8.00pm on Tuesday, 25th February in the Library Room in the Community Centre. All welcome to attend the meeting which will focus on projects for 2025.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Society will host a lecture by Alice O’Neill McLoughlin on ‘John McShain, the man who built Washington, from a South Kilkenny viewpoint’ in the Parish Hall at 8.00pm on Friday, 28th February. All welcome to attend.

RURAL ROADS SPEED LIMITS

Kilkenny County Council has commenced the implementation of the new 60kph/h speed limit on rural roads. Though work was held up by recent weather events the Department of Transport has set the changeover date for Thursday, 6th February.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

TABLE QUIZ

Please support the table quiz in An Chearnog Friday night February 7th at 8:30pm. Teams of 4 @ €40 per table in aid of the Men’s Shed Raffle and spot prizes on the night. Sponsorship and donations of spot prizes would be greatly appreciated.

SYMPATHY

Sympathies are sent on the sad passing of Paddy O Gorman, Castlegardens and Ballyouskill to his son Stephen, daughters Mary, Helena, Ann-Marie, Christine and Michelle. Grandchildren Tadgh, Ryan, Penelope, Seán and Phoebe, partner Jackie, brother John, sister Ann, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends. Paddy was laid to rest in St Finnans Cemetery.

MEMBERSHIP

St. Patricks GAA thanks to all who have renewed club membership for the 2025 year. Membership can be paid to any officer or committee member, online via the GAA portal Foireann Log-in. Payment also be made using the Sumup. Anyone wanting to pay by bank transfer, please contact Tomas Healy. To help with meeting some of the costs of maintaining and improving facilities, a small increase in membership rates has been agreed by the club committee. Membership options include; - Individual membership €60, - Couple €100, - Combined membership and Piltown ticket €100 - or Family Memberships where a variety of options for combined adult and juvenile memberships are available. For full details contact Tomas Healy or Enda Mooney. Once again we would like to thank you all for your support that is so important for the club.

HEALTH AND SAFETY RISK

Hi everyone, just a quick reminder to all dog owners using the club grounds. Unfortunately, dog fouling has become an issue on the pitches and surrounding areas, creating hygiene concerns for players, children, and the community. We appreciate that most owners clean up after their dogs, but a small number are not, causing problems for everyone. Please clean up and take the waste home to keep the grounds and neighbouring fields clean. We don’t want to ban dogs, but if this continues, we may have no choice. Let’s all do our part—thanks for your cooperation.

BINGO ON WEDNESDAY NIGHTS IN THE CYMS HALL

The Ballyouskill Hall Association is delighted to announce the launch of ‘The Den’ Youth Club. This Club will cater for

children from 2nd to 6th class, every Friday evening from 6.30pm – 8pm. It will be a space for children to hang out with free play; play games and have fun!!! ‘ Screen –Free Time. Phones will be handed in upon entrance, and returned when leaving. (GDPR Protection) All Supervisors are Garda vetted. All children welcome and spread the word!! Looking forward to seeing you all in the hall.

JOHNSTOWN

SCHOOL ENROLMENTS

St. Kieran’s N.S, Johnstown and St. Michael’s N.S.,Crosspatrick are now enrolling for infants and all classes for September. For information and application forms contact Johnstown at 0568831611 or email johnstownns@gmail.com and for Crosspatrick at 0568831753 or email office@crosspatrickns.com.

LOURDES PILGRIMAGE

Some lucky students from Colaiste Mhuire are travelling to Lourdes with the Ossory Pilgrimage as student helpers in May. To that end they are holding a church gate collection at all Masses next weekend Feb 8/9th. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Students travelling are Charlotte Queally , Cara Ruth, Clodagh O’Shea, Emma Grant Carroll and Eoin Holland. They are also holding a Table Quiz in McCarthy’s Bar on Sunday Feb. 9th at 5pm. Tables of 4 € 30. Finger food served at the break and a raffle and spot prizes.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to the Colaiste Mhuire camogie team who won the All Ireland Senior B semi final recently beating Colaiste na Toirbheirte, Bandon by 2-7 to 1-7. They are now in the final on Feburary 16th, opponents and venue to be announced. They are wished all the very best.

SPA UNITED AFC

This week’s results U16 boys league division 1 Freebooters 0 Spa 2, U14 boys league division 1 Highview Athletic 0 Spa 5, U14 boys league division 2 Spa 1 Paulstown 3, U12 boys league division 1A Callan 0 Spa 1, U12 boys league division 2A Highview 5 Spa 1,

The members of the club would like to wish Tara Rose Dunphy the very best of luck as she departs the club and makes the move up to League of Ireland. Tara Rose has been with the club from U9 level and has represented the club with great skill over the past five years, and her talent has seen her representing the Kilkenny District League at two Gaynor Cups. Tara Rose has recently been attending the National Academy, which, no doubt, has helped her in her move to one of Ireland’s clubs Bohemians. Best of luck Tara Rose.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

This week’s winning numbers 3,6,17,19. No jackpot winner

Outreach

Padraic Gahan takes possession for Mullinavat

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

For further information, please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

SACRAMENTAL DATES

The dates have been announced for the following sacraments in the parish. Confirmation will take place on Friday 28th February at 11am and First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

PARISH CONFIRMATION

The sacrament of Confirmation will be conferred on the children of 5th and 6th class of the 3 parish schools (Gortnahoe, Ballysloe and Glengoole) by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly on Friday, February 28th in Gortnahoe Church at 11a.m. A Ceremony of Light, in preparation for the sacrament, will be held for the children this Wednesday night, February 5th in Glengoole Church at 7pm. All families are asked to take note of both events, including venues, dates and times.

LEGION OF MARY

The Legion of Mary will be visiting our parish this Saturday 8th February from 2-4pm.

ANNUAL SACRISTAN’S COLLECTION

The annual collection for the Sacristan’s for both churches is being taken up this weekend. This is the first of the white envelopes found in the box of yearly envelopes.

PILGRIMAGES TO MEDJUGORJE

Departing from Shannon on May 21st and Aug 27th for one week. €50 euro early booking discount for bookings made before Jan 31st. Contact John O’Brien, Group Leader, on 086 8586304 for further details.

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 special bank holiday weekend bingo and the committee appreciated the support from the parish.

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 Ciara Joyce, Grange Badminton Club who won €331 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 February Split the Pot will be in support of Grange Badminton Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

KILMANAGH

JOE DILLON

The death has occurred of Joe Dillon, Great Oak and formerly of Cuffesgrange. Joe was pre-deceased by his sons James and Pat, his parents, brothers and one sister. He will be sadly missed by his loving wife Mary, daughters Mai, Catherine and Ann-Marie; sons Michael and Joseph, sisters Mary and Kathleen, brother Anthony, sons in law, daughter in law, grandchildren, sisters in law, brother in law, nieces, nephews, relatives and many friends. May Joe Rest in Peace.

CAMOGIE NEWS

Our U14 girls received their League and County Final Medals in Ballycallan Hall. Presenting the medals was our local Intermediate County Players, Kate McCluskey, Lauren Ronan and Lauren East. Thanks to the girls for coming and presenting to the U14 team. Well done to the players and management team. (Missing from team photo is Regan)

YOGA AND PILATES

Yoga and Pilates Classes return to Naomh Aodhán Community Centre on Mondays, commencing February 10th. Pilates 6pm to 7pm. Yoga for Relaxation 7.15 to 8.30pm.

5 Week Block costs €65. Pre-booking required. Contact Roisín at 085 272 6047.

BALLINGARRY CAFÉ

The Ballingarry Café in the Community Centre has returned for 2025. Open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10am - 2.30pm, for breakfast and lunch. Takeaway service is also available. For details phone 052 915 4284.

EXERCISE CLASSES

Full body workout for complete beginners and flexibility exercise to target multiple muscle groups and improve overall functional fitness beginning in Ballycallan Hall on Wednesday, February 5th for 6 weeks from 5.30 - 6.30pm . Cost €60. For details contact Emma 087 916 1996.

LOTTO RESULTS

Results for 27th January. There was no winner. Numbers drawn were 5; 8; 19 and 29. Lucky Dip winners of €50 each were Lorraine Brett, Billy Brett and Frances Ryan. Promoters’ prizes go to James Ryall and Pat Comerford.

SOCCER FIXTURES

Saturday February 8th : U17 Schoolboys League: Evergreen v River Rangers

U13 Schoolboys League: River Rangers v Callan Utd.

SOCCER RESULTS

K & DL Division 2: Evergreen 1 - River Rangers 2 U16 Schoolboys League: Deen Celtic 2 - River Rangers 0

DARTS

Home tie for the locals this weekend, as they host Laois outfit, The Brewery Rathdowney.

KILMANAGH NOTES

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

CONAHY

HURLING

A group of over 40 hurlers representing Conahy travelled to Las Vegas over last weekend to take part in a tournament organised by the US National Colleges GAA. A great trip was had, the highlight being the overall winning of the tournament involving 10 teams from Ireland and the US. Well done to everyone involved.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 4, 29 and 37. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Laura Delaney, Brian and Emily Maher, Teilo Maher, Ger Hooban and Mary Coogan. The promoter prize winners were Margaret Buggy, Mona Dooley and Brian Lacey. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

NEW WEBSITE

Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club has recently set up a new club website - check it out on conahyshamrocks.clubzap.com. All GAA and Camogie Club players are members are encouraged to download the Clubzap app and pay their 2025 membership fees and keep up to date on fixtures, results and other club information.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD

MASS TIMES AGHAVILLER PARISH

Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil, Saturday 8th. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 9th. at 10.00a.m.

Stoneyford. Vigil, Saturday 8th. at 6.30p.m.

BLESSING OF CANDLES

Candles to be used in the Churches during the year will be blessed during the Saturday evening Mass in both Churches this weekend. Church Candles, (or Donations for Candles), may be left into the Church Sacristies. Friday 7th. Feast of St. Mel. First Friday, visitation with Holy Communion will take place as usual on Friday. Please let us know if you would like to receive Holy Communion in your home for the First Fridays or at any other time.

PRAY FOR

Christopher Lodge, Kells, Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 8th. at 6.30p.m. Nellie Dunphy and Ned Millea, Kyleva. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 8th. February at 8.00p.m.

ROTA (FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME)

Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Lennon. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power. Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Murphy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 27th. January 2025, Numbers: 13; 26; 06; 08. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner. €30.00. Winners: Aoife Sheehan, Stonecarthy; P.and C. Hudson, c/o James Irish, Carmel Hearne, Thomastown; Bill Cassin, Ballygerdra; Marie Neville, c/o Catherine Duggan. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers), Catherine Duggan, James Irish, Ger Carroll.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS

Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

STONEYFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE

“Ciorcal Cainte” An bhfuil cupla focail agat? Maybe you spoke a few words years ago but have forgotten them?

Stoneyford’s Irish Talking Circle, “Ciorcal Cainte” is almost 3 months running, with different people popping in and out each week. Up for discussion are the weekend’s sports results, the weather or maybe a personal story of something that happened, all with a cupan tae agus brioscai. They say “Tir gan teanga, tir gan anam” and speaking the language is absolutely the best way to learn it. All levels are welcome. Your first comhra is free and after that it’s just €5 to cover expenses. every On Mondays, in Stoneyford Community Centre. at 11.00a.m.

MOVEMENT FOR LIFE

Aimee Moloney has started a 6 Week block of classes on Tuesday evenings at 7.00p.m. in Stoneyford Community Centre. The primary focus is on mobility and strength exercises to help your body work better. No heavy lifting, jumping or running. It’s still not too late to join. Contact Aimee now on 085 177 4232.

Kate McCluskey, Lauren Ronan and Lauren East, presented medals to the U14 team

U14 camogie presentation of medals

Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Allianz Hurling League Division 1A

Kilkenny 1-19 Galway 2-19

Round 2, UPMC Nowlan Park

Referee: Thomas Walsh (Waterford)

Galway made the journey to UPMC Nowlan Park a fruitful one as they returned west with maximum points in this Allianz Hurling League Division 1A round 2 clash last Sunday following a 3-point win over Kilkenny. When Portumna rising star, Declan McLaughlin rifled in his second major of the afternoon in the 45th minute it gave the maroon-clad men an eight-point lead, but Derek Lyng’s men stuck to the task and battled their way back into the game, once again inspired by the in-form Mossy Keoghan and former captain Eoin Cody. The half-time introduction of Billy Ryan gave the home side more fight and the Graigue Ballycallan man showed the hunger that is going to be required as the season develops.

The home side got the first score of the game, courtesy of Mossy Keoghan, but the Galway response was emphatic as they raised a green flag from the restart. Cianan Fahy played a lovely ball to centre forward Tiernan Killeen who passed to the supporting Declan McLaughlin who steadied himself before firing past Aidan Tallis in the Cats goal. A good move involving Paddy Deegan and Eoin Cody resulted in Mossy popping over his second of the game. Some good recycling saw Galway work the ball back from the endline to the unmarked Padraic Mannion who struck over from distance unchallenged. From the restart, the sliotar was worked to Cian Kenny and The Village man made no mistake in splitting the westerner’s posts. Another searching ball into the Cats backline was pounced on by Declan McLaughlin and the forward got the better of Mikey Butler before striking over. Ahascragh-Fohenagh clubman Mannion then took advantage of a loose clearance from Aidan Tallis to notch his second point of the day after 12 minutes of action. Some neat footwork close to the sideline saw Eoin Cody pop a pass to Peter McDonald and the captain repeated his feat of last week by sending over a tidy score. Galway midfielder Tom Monaghan then reminded everyone

Tribesmen take points west!

Galway survive Cats comeback to claim win

Skill and determination - Mossy’s the man!

David Blanchfield gets his clearance away chased by Conor Cooney

of his ability to strike from distance when he notched what would be the first of his 3-point haul. Tullaroan’s Mossy Keoghan then added to his two points with a fine effort from out on the right side, before Gavin Lee pointed from ‘65 out having taken a pass from Padraic Mannion. Derek Lyng’s side then almost registered a goal of their own, when after a little bit of pinball, Gearoid Dunne took possession before striking his effort across goal and wide of Darach Fahy’s right hand post.

Micheál Donoghue’s outfit then stepped on the gas and struck the games next three points. Tiernan Killeen finished off a great piece of interplay before Craughwell’s Tom Monaghan added to his tally with

definitely in as he collected point number four. John Fleming restored Galway’s six-point lead despite the best efforts of Dicksboro’s Padraic Moylan. Eoin Cody who had been trying hard in the opening period then won a free which he converted as the first half entered additional time. There was still time for one more score, a nicely crafted point involving Peter McDonald and Cian Kenny, who worked hard to create the opportunity which Mossy finished with aplomb to leave the Tribesmen’s lead at four points on the short whistle.

Derek Lyng made one change at the interval, the experienced Billy Ryan replacing O’Loughlin’s Luke Hogan in the Cats attack. Declan McLaughlin got the scoreboard moving in the 39th minute when he again got the better of his man, former All-Star corner-back, Mikey Butler out on the left, before striking over. There was certainly more fight in the black and amber post interval, and this was evident when Deise whistler Thomas Walsh showed Billy Ryan a yellow card for a little bit of a swipe. Another fine piece of team play involving David Blanchfield and Paddy Deegan saw Cian Kenny take a classy score. Galway responded and reeled off the next three scores, again all from distance, courtesy of Cianan Fahy, centre back Gavin Lee and John Cooney, who benefited from a slip by Paddy Deegan.

man was halted illegally by Padraic Mannion, Eoin Cody duly converted the resulting free. Paddy Deegan was then withdrawn and replaced by Dicksboro’s Harry Shine. A strong run out of defence by Huw Lawlor saw the O’Loughlin’s man fouled near the sideline in front of the dugouts. Again, Eoin Cody converted the placed ball, and repeated the dose shortly after as the home faithful began to find their voices. James Stephen’s Cian Kenny added to his tally after 57 minutes, before Mossy Keoghan hit two clinkers, the first of which was simply stunning and created by Harry Shine. Padraic Moylan, who had been performing well, was forced off with cramp and replaced by Eoghan Lyng. Then came the biggest score of the day for the home side. Mikey Carey powered through a group of players and managed to pass forward towards Mossy, whose touch allowed Eoin Cody to take possession. The Shamrocks Ballyhale man burst clear before unleashing a fierce strike across Darach Fahy and into the Galway net, Kilkenny now one point up with about eight minutes remaining. Galway sub, Jason Flynn then struck over the first of his 3-point placed ball cameo to deadlock matters again, before striking two more frees to edge the men in maroon into a 2-point lead. There was to be one more score,

and it came from Galway captain Conor Whelan who was set up nicely by Tom Monaghan as he dispatched a quality effort from out wide to secure a 3-point win on Noreside. Full time score in UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny 1-19, Galway 2-19. Scorers for Kilkenny: E Cody (1-6, 0-6 frees); M Keoghan (0-7); C Kenny (0-3); P Moylan, P McDonald and L Hogan (all 0-1).

Scorers for Galway: D McLoughlin (2-2); G Lee and T Monaghan (both 0-3); J Flynn (0-3 frees); P Mannion (0-2); C Fahy, J Cooney, T Killeen, C Whelan and J Fleming (all 0-1); C Cooney (0-1 free).

Kilkenny: A Tallis; M Butler, H Lawlor, P Moylan; M Carey, D Blanchfield, Z Bay Hammond; P Deegan, P McDonald; M Keoghan, C Kenny, L Connellan; L Hogan, E Cody, G Dunne, Subs: S Murphy for Bay Hammond (24); B Ryan for Hogan (HT); B Drennan for Connellan (47); H Shine for Deegan (53); E Lyng for Moylan (61); Galway: D Fahy; S Morgan, F Burke, D Morrissey; P Mannion, G Lee, TJ Brennan; C Fahy, T Monaghan; John Cooney, T Killeen, Cillian Whelan; Conor Whelan, C Cooney, J Fleming. Subs: Daithi Burke for Brennan (53); J Flynn for J Cooney (55); K Cooney for C Cooney (57); S Linnane for Daithi Burke (blood, 63-65) and for Fleming (66); A Burns for McLoughlin (69); Referee: T Walsh (Waterford)

a classy effort from out on the left, before Clarinbridge’s Gavin Lee split the posts from way out the field after his side had expertly worked the ball out of defence. Twentyeight minutes gone, and Kilkenny were down by six, and had lost wing back Zack Bay Hammond to injury, the Thomastown man replaced by Glenmore’s Shane Murphy. The Noresiders broke their ten-minute plus scoring drought when Luke Hogan took a smartly taken sideline cut from Paddy Deegan before striking over from a central position. The sides swapped placed ball efforts before Tom Monaghan took his tally to three, again firing over from distance. Luke Hogan then set up Mossy Keoghan, whose radar was

Eoin Cody, who was on placed ball duty, in the absence of TJ Reid and Billy Drennan, popped over another effort, his 3rd of the match while the next score came from an unlikely source, Padraic Moylan, who rifled over from the middle of the park, having taken a pass from Peter McDonald. The Cats were 5 points in arrears, but this gap was about to grow. Tiarnan Killeen played a long ball out of the Galway defence which was seized on by John Cooney who showed a good turn of pace to get away from David Blanchfield. The Sarsfield’s man struck his shot well, but Aidan Tallis managed to get his hurl on it, but the ball was picked up by Declan McLaughlin who unleashed the rebound past the helpless Lisdowney netminder. Donoghue’s charges now led by eight.

Galmoy’s Billy Drennan then entered the fray in place of Thomastown’s Luke Connellan as the Kilkenny management sought to freshen up their attack. Billy Ryan’s hunger and pace was causing problems for the Galway defence, and when the Graigue Ballycallan

>> SHERRY SAYS...

I’d imagine that Derek Lyng will be a little disappointed to have not at least take a share of the spoils from last weekend’s game with Galway. When Eoin Cody’s fierce strike edged Kilkenny into the lead with about eight minutes left, the Cats had ripped up the Tribesmen’s -8-point lead, but notching the last four scores of the game saw Micheál Donoghue’s men head west with the points.

Mossy Keoghan, again led by example, keeping the scoreboard ticking over and hitting a couple of stunning scores. Eoin Cody never stopped, while Billy Ryan’s introduction gave the Cats a greater hunger, desire and much needed experience. In defence, the two Mikey’s had differing games. Mr. Butler had his hands full trying to contain Declan McLaughlin, the Portumna man coming out on top in their battle. Mr. Carey was superb, never stopped battling and won a decent amount of dirty ball.

It was disappointing to see Zack Bay Hammond’s first senior start be cut short by injury, but Shane Murphy did well when introduced. Next weekend Derek Lyng will lead his side into battle in Chadwicks Wexford Park, as the Cats take on the Yellowbellies in round three. Keith Rossiter’s men have lost both of their games to date, Cork and Tipp the victors. It’s never easy facing Wexford in their own back yard under lights, but

the black and amber will want to get back to winning ways quickly in this competitive Allianz League .

Shake it off! Eoin Cody trying to escape from Darren Morrissey

Stuck in the middle - Billy Ryan fights on!

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Rana Tanweer Ahmad intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the change of use from existing post office to a non-surgical medical walk-in-clinic and all associated site development works at 2/3 James’s Street, Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Significant Further Information / Revised Plans:

Josh Moore and Olivia Maher have submitted significant further information / revised plans in relation to planning application no. 24/60576 for - 1. The demolition of part of an existing dwellinghouse and outhouses, 2. The refurbishment and renovation of the existing dwellinghouse , 3. Alterations to existing elevations ,4. The construction of a new two-storey extension, 5. The decommissioning of an existing septic tank & percolation area, 6. The installation of a new wastewater treatment plant & percolation area and 7. To carry out all associated site development works at Ballydowel Little, Co. Kilkenny.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 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: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Shane Butler, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission to demolish an existing outbuilding and construct a two-storey extension to the rear of my existing townhouse to form a family flat, connection to existing services and all associated site works at McKenna’s Arch, Low Street, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny R95 RPF2. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Amy Fitzpatrick, wish to apply for planning permission for a change of house type to that granted under planning application P21/971, with slight alteration to site area and all other details as per the previous planning application, at Killahy, Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Valerie Landy for Retention Planning permission of constructed extensions to include alterations from that as previously granted under planning application 17/755 at No. 28 Fiacres Place, Kilkenny R95 X0WD.

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.

JOE MINOGUE 26TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Joe Minogue, late of 7 Newtown Terrace, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny who died on February 5th 1999. Aged 79 years Rest In Peace

After Glow

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one

I’d like to leave an after glow of smiles when life is done

I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days I’d like the tear of those who grieve to dry before the sun of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Always loved and remembered by his loving family.

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. M.DM.

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. P.OD.

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.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.