Kilkenny Observer 08th November 2024

Man missing since 2015

Gardaí in new search for Kilkenny native Dean Roche

Gardaí plan to retrace their steps and speak with potential witnesses again in an attempt to solve the case of missing Kilkenny man Dean Roche, who was last seen nearly 10 years ago.

A search operation involving specialist Gardaí failed to yield any sign of the missing man, who was 31 when he was last seen on the evening of March

Student safety down on the farm

Agri Aware has announced the launch of its Farm Safety First workshop roadshow for Transition Year (TY) students beginning Monday, November 11.

TY students will receive inperson workshops delivered by Agri Aware education officers on farm safety over a two-week period where 46 workshops will take place in secondary schools across 22 counties.

The Farm Safety First programme aims to educate TY students on the challenges and dangers of farming.

The course covers a wide range of farm health and safety topics, including personal safety and awareness, identifying hazards and understanding warning signs, staying safe around livestock and working with machinery.

Each workshop will focus on understanding potential dangers by recognising warning signs and staying vigilant; preparing for tasks with proper Personal Protective Equipment and knowledge; and implementing best practices to assess and safely handle farm tasks. The workshops will be interactive, with hands on tasks throughout.

22, 2015, in the Ballyfoyle area.

“There was hope that there would be a different conclusion to the search operation, but ultimately it ended in frustration,” a source told the Irish Independent.

“It was painstaking and extensive work, but no trace of Dean was found, so now the focus is on re-canvassing witnesses and trying to find new

Well done, Big Sis!

ones. Gardaí continue to appeal for any information on this case, which is not classified as a homicide at this stage.”

As part of the new review which began in September, Gardaí re-examined sites of interest and deployed drones at a location in Kilkenny where Mr Roche was last seen.

On March 22, 2015, he left

his mother’s home in Hebron Park, Kilkenny, to buy a car. That was the last time he spoke to her. The last sighting of him was later that evening, in Ballyfoyle. The car he bought that day was found, crashed into a tree, less than a kilometre from where he bought it.

The last sighting of him was by a woman who saw him acting suspiciously outside her

home and called the Gardaí.

She saw a silver-coloured car travelling at speed, which then screeched to a halt. After that, she heard shouts of “Get in, get in”.

The woman suspects those prompts were directed at Mr Roche, who was known to Gardaí.

His mother Geraldine died in 2018, never knowing what mi-

PHOTO: Patrick Browne

See Page 14

had happened to her son. In a TG4 documentary broadcast last May, members of the Roche family said they felt the key to finding the truth remained in the area where he was last seen.

Gardaí searches were carried out over a large area of countryside in the South East, including inspections of slurry tanks.

Trump’s triumph as US president

US President-elect Donald Trump has won the popular vote, with provisional counts showing him ahead of his Democratic rival Kamala Harris by nearly five million ballots. He will be the 47th President of the United States of America Harris, the US Vice-Pesident, conceded the presidential election but promised to keep fighting for democracy and the rule of law.

Trump’s Republican Party has also won a majority in the Senate, but control of the House of Representatives remains unclear.

Mountain View and Petronella

Ballyhale’s family-run Mountain View has announced its expansion into Kilkenny city through their takeover of Petronella restaurant. The relaunch of Petronella is a welcome addition to the O’Neill family’s continuing success within the Kilkenny and Irish restaurant and hospitality scenes.

Petronella is the first sister restaurant of the family’s multiple award-winning food destination venue Mountain View, which is located on 120 acres of Kilkenny countryside and is home to The Greenhouse Restaurant. Full story Page 6

Aisling Kelly from Kilkenny pictured at South East Technological University (SETU) conferring ceremonies in Waterford with her sister Faye. Aisling graduated with Bachelor of Science (Honours) in General Nursing

Niamh Mulvey shortlisted for prestigious book award

Kilkenny writer Niamh Mulvey has been shortlisted for a prestigious An Post Irish Book Award for her bestselling novel The Amendments. The public can vote to support Niamh’s book which is in the Newcomer of the Year Category at https://www.irishbookawards.ie/vote/

The awards will take place at a ceremony in Dublin on November 27. Other shortlisted authors include: Kevin Barry, Sally Rooney and Colm Tóibín.

Niamh’s short story fiction has been published in The Stinging Fly, Banshee and Southword and had been shortlisted for the Seán O’Faoláin Prize for Short Fiction 2020. Her debut short story collection, Hearts And Bones, was published by Picador in 2022 and has garnered praise from writers such as Sarah Moss, Joseph O’Connor, Sinead Gleeson and Jan Carson, and received very positiver reviews in the media.

The Amendments tells the story of Nell and her partner Adrienne who are about to have a baby. For Adrienne, it’s the start of a new life. For Nell, it’s the reason the two of them are sitting in a

therapist’s office. Because she can’t go into this without dealing with the truth: that she has been a mother before, and now she can’t bring herself to speak to her own mother, let alone return home to Ireland.

Nell is running out of places to hide from her past.

But to Ireland and the past is where she must go, and that is where The Amendments takes us to the time of Nell’s teenage years in the early 2000s, as Ireland was unpicking itself from its faith and embracing the hedonism of the Celtic Tiger. And to 1983, when Nell’s mother Dolores was grappling with the tensions of the women’s rights movement. And then to the farms and suburbs and towns that made and unmade the lives at the centre of this story, bound together by the terrible secret that Nell still cannot face.

Delving into the lives of three generations of women, The Amendments is an extraordinary novel about love and freedom, belonging and rebellion – and about how our past is a vital presence which sits alongside us.

Housing should be a right and not a commodity

In Goresbridge no new housing scheme has been completed since the early 2000s. In Tinnahinch on the Carlow side of Graignamanagh no new housing has been built by public authorities in many decades. In the Rower village people are crying out for homes and renewal in the village and we see interminable delays in the delivery of new houses and development.

The housing situation in Ireland is nothing short of a disaster.

A failure to invest in housing over many decades but especially during the economic crash of 2008 onwards is driving a wedge through Irish society creating the potential for a breakdown in social cohesion and inter-generational solidarity. The housing crisis is also providing a fertile ground for the spread of anti-immigrant and far right rhetoric based on unfounded claims and a complete and fundamental misunderstanding of the nature of the Irish housing crisis which predates the recent increase in inward migration.

Rising levels of homelessness and an increased lack of hope for ever buying a home has spread to the young generation. Better educated than previous generations and with something that

approaches ‘full employment’ we live in a privately rich country characterised by public poverty – poverty of ambition, poverty of strategic planning, poverty of public service delivery when and where it is most needed.

National politics has submitted to short-term thinking and populist vote-winning measures to ‘put more money in your pocket’. Without a home of your own or without security of tenure for those renting, money in the pocket amounts to a few quid very week after inflation is taken into account and with no access to affordable homes.

Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils need to build many times more homes. Last year, 240 ‘social houses’ were provided of which 61 were newly built directly for the two local authorities combined. Yet, there were over 1,302 on the housing waiting list – not counting people in emergency accommodation or those doubling up in the family home of which there are several thousands. We need to start treating housing as a national emergency on a par with that of COVID and apply a sense of political, administrative and even legal urgency to a faster

delivery of homes that are affordable and energy futureproof.

These are my priorities:

1. Housing should be enshrined in our Constitution as a fundamental human right.

2. Set up a State Construction Company to design, build, buy, rent and deliver homes and convert existing properties for residential use. Funding for additional investment in homes should be sought from the Housing Finance Agency, the European Investment Bank and the Future Ireland Fund.

3. Make Counties Carlow and Kilkenny leaders in the development of public Cost-Rental schemes offering people a choice of long-term and affordable rental houses in mixed housing developments.

4. Press for an adequate capital budget to multiply up the rate of new builds and build back towards a much more central role for local authorities in the direct provision and funding of social housing.

5. Extend the use of the Buy and Renew scheme to proactively buy vacant housing using Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPO).

6. Work to streamline and reform planning as well as the four-stage approval process for social housing which stand in the way of housing development.

World’s largest disability sports trade exhibition

Munster Technological University will host the world’s largest disability sports trade exhibition in 2025 under the patronage of UNESCO.

The 25th International Symposium of Adapted Physical Activity (ISAPA) and the Third International Symposium on

Physical Activity and Visual Impairment or Deafblindness will take place at MTU’s North Campus in Tralee, Kerry from June 16 to 20 next year.

The conferences are being organised by the UNESCO Chair at MTU’s Tralee campus in follow-up

Mountain View moves into Kilkenny with Petronella

Ballyhale’s family-run Mountain View has announced its expansion into Kilkenny city through their takeover of Petronella restaurant. The relaunch of Petronella is a welcome addition to the O’Neill family’s continuing success within the Kilkenny and Irish restaurant and hospitality scenes.

Petronella is the first sister restaurant of the family’s multiple award-winning food destination venue Mountain View, which is located on 120 acres of Kilkenny countryside and is home to The Greenhouse Restaurant, a renowned wedding and private events venue, luxurious glamping village and is the setting of the South East’s largest weekly farmer’s market.

Commenting on the growth of their third generation familyrun business, Mountain View co-owner and co-founder Bee O’Grady said: “An opportunity to enter the restaurant scene in Kilkenny city doesn’t come around very often, particularly in a historic venue and well established restaurant such as Petronella. When we met the previous owners of Petronella, we connected with them straight away; our values of business, the vibrant restaurant scene and welcoming service we both pride ourselves in were truly aligned from the beginning of this journey.

“We wanted to bring our celebrated Mountain View style of experience, food, and service to the local dining scene in the city, while honouring Kilkenny’s heritage. Our team’s goal is to become a cherished part of the city’s restaurant scene, offering not just exceptional food but also a genuine, warm, and wel-

coming atmosphere,” she said. The news of Mountain View’s expansion is coupled with the announcement of a new accomplished culinary lead at the Ballyhale estate. Kilkenny native Gerard Dunne holds the position of group executive chef at Mountain View, overseeing the culinary teams, the estate’s kitchen garden, and is head chef on all weddings and private events.

Mr Dunne joins the O’Neill family business from his most recent position as executive chef at the popular Kilkenny city restaurant Rive Gauche, and launches the new seasonal menu at Mountain View’s The Greenhouse Restaurant which focuses on sourcing and showcasing the best ingredients including local, natural and seasonal produce within a 60km radius where possible.

Gerard Dunne has curated the reinvented food offering at Petronella, with an emphasis on blending traditional Irish charm with modern European cuisine. His concept revolves around celebrating Ireland’s rich culinary heritage while incorporating global influences.  Petronella is open from Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner, and opens Sunday for lunch service only.

Dating back to 1602, Petronella is rich in history. Located in one of the city’s oldest buildings on the bustling Butterslip Lane at the mediaeval heart of Kilkenny city, the origins of restaurant’s name is also steeped in the 700 year old remarkable story of Petronella De Meath, a name and story synonymous with Kilkenny’s tales and trails of witchcraft and heresy.

Trinity College honour for late Robert Fisk

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science

Patrick O’Donovan TD has announced €200,000 in funding for Trinity College Dublin to support the conservation of the personal archive of the late renowned journalist Robert Fisk and his wife, Nelofer Pazi-

to the Paris Call to Action launched in UNESCO Headquarters during the Paralympic Games 2024. ISAPA will provide physical activity professionals with an opportunity to share their knowledge and experience in professional preparation, research, advocacy, and

service delivery in the fields of adapted physical activity, physical education, and sport science.

Up to 600 delegates will attend the two biennial international conferences, which will cover all areas of disability. Delegates are expected from academia, interna-

tional organisations, government and local government, civil society, and the private sector and will travel from around the world to attend the event.

A key focus on the events will be a trade show, and event organisers are encouraging organisations working

across all areas of disability to become involved. Up to 60 exhibitors will showcase innovations, products and services to advance the field of adapted physical activity.

* For further information on ISAPA 2025 visit: https:// www.isapa2025.com/.

Local groups’ community awards

Community groups based in Kilkenny were honoured at the recent prestigious Pride Of Place community awards at a gala ceremony in Monaghan.

Ferrybank Community, Co. Kilkenny came runnerup in the Community WellBeing Initiative, losing out to Knockmealdown Active, Co Tipperary, while Inistioge village came runnerup in the Areas with a Population 0-300 category to Oram, County Monaghan.

The awards, hosted by RTE’s Brendan McArdle, took place in in front of 400 community volunteers from across the island in the Hillgrove Hotel. The awards were delivered in partnership with Monaghan County Council.

Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride Of Place competition was initiated 22 years ago through a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invaluable work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development. It has grown into the largest competition recog-

ra-Fisk. The archive, which encompasses a wealth of materials from Fisk’s extensive career including notes from interviews with Osama Bin Laden, will be made available to students and researchers.

Fisk spent over 45 years as a leading foreign correspondent for UK and Irish media.

nising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.

President Michael D. Higgins, Joint Patron of Cooperation Ireland, said the awards played an important role.  “The Pride Of Place awards are a most important initiative, reminding us that creating societies that are ethical and inclusive is a task for all of our citizens, of all ages and circumstances.”

Cathaoirleach, Monaghan County Council, Cathy Bennett, said: “We are honoured as one of the smallest local authorities on the island to have been entrusted by Co-operation Ireland and IPB Insurance to host this year’s Pride of Place Awards.

“In keeping with the county’s tradition of quality food production, we proudly showcased the best of Monaghan fare at the gala dinner which accompanied the awards ceremony.  Entertainment was provided by composer Jamie Duffy, who at the tender age of twenty-two already has a number one streaming single under his belt.

“In addition to the main event, Pride Of Place awards attendees received complimentary passes to the world premiere performance of ‘The Butcher Boy’ author Pat McCabe’s new play, Little White Lies,” he said.

“We enjoyed sharing our little corner of the country with communities from all over Ireland.”

Pride of Place founder and Chairman Tom Dowling said: “After 22 extraordinary years, our judges still never cease to be inspired by the wonderful achievements of the fantastic communities nominated by their local council to represent their place in these prestigious awards.”

Ian Jeffers, CEO of Cooperation Ireland said: “Cooperation Ireland has no other programme that embodies the charity’s ethos better than Pride of Place.

“We work to build relationships across the island and Pride of Place plays a critical role in that work.

The impact the awards have had in towns and villages across the island since they

started two decades ago cannot be underestimated, and the continuing success of the awards is down to the dedicated volunteers and their love of where they live.”

John Hogan, Chairman, IPB Insurance said. “On behalf of our local authority members we are proud to be associated with the Pride of Place awards as title sponsors. This is truly a unique competition, providing an all-island platform that recognises the great strides volunteers are making in building more inclusive, sustainable, and welcoming communities. These awards shine a light on the work being done in our communities by celebrating the volunteers who give of their time in the spirit of collaboration. Their selfless efforts are making a real difference for all who live and work in their communities. It is therefore essential that we celebrate the excellent work accomplished around the island of Ireland by showcasing what can be achieved when we all work together.”

Almost €1m for group water schemes in Kilkenny

Almost €1m in funding for rural water services across Kilkenny was announced today by Green Party TD for Carlow-Kilkenny and Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm

Noonan under a new cycle of the capital investment through the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme.

A total of 21 Group Water Schemes in Kilkenny will receive over €924,000 as part

of a €47m national scheme supporting over 250 projects across the country to improve the quality, quantity and reliability of water services in rural areas.

Minister Noonan said:

“Group Water Schemes provide vital water services for people in rural areas and I have long championed them as an important part of the solution to sustainable rural development.”

Congrats: IPB Pride Of Place 2024: Co-operation Ireland Director of Programmes Paul Boylan  (centre) presents Ferrybank Community with the prize for coming runner up in the Community Well-Being Initiative category

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

Why inquiry into how we handled Covid bugs me

Do I need an inquiry into the State’s handling of Covid-19 for me to understand that I had the rogue microbe inside me three times in two years; that the first six months of lockdown had me virtually alone and certainly petrified because I was among the vulnerable that were the old; and that, on getting the bug the second time, I had longCovid which lasted from March 2021 until almost the Christmas and saw me totally devoid of any energy. An inquiry won’t change that for me, nor indeed explain things any further than I already know nor need to know. I lost four close acquaintances to Covid – each with underlying issues. An inquiry is not going to bring them back. Nor will such throw light on why all ‘old’ people were lumped together – I don’t have any underlying issues – and told to shut up

and stay indoors, and young teens blamed for breaking the rules of lockdown and contributing to the spread of the virus. The latter so not true.

Did Ireland “lock down for too hard, for too long”?

Arguably so, but I suggest we handled the whole frightening scenario better that did, say, the UK, Italy or the US.

Conspiracy theorists aside, we listened to the authorities and those on the frontline and did as we were told, what with keeping two feet apart in the supermarket, wearing the obligatory mask, and staying within our five kilometre radius.

Those in the hospitality industry duly closed their doors, even though it was to cost them and some just never opening their doors again.

The Cabinet has signed off on what it is describing as an ‘evaluation’ of

Ireland’s Covid response – however, the investigation will not have powers to compel people to give evidence nor secure documents. The investigation led by NUI Galway Professor Anne Scott will examine the health service response to the pandemic – including nursing homes, hospitals and community care. This may seem fair enough but with no powers to call ‘witnesses’ or summon documents such an inquiry may well fall short of what it would seek to achieve. And, the Lord knows, we have a history of our inquiries going on forever and costing the taxpayer dearly.

When we were still in lockdown I had my first panic or anxiety attack. I thought I was having a heart attack as I had never experienced anything like it before. I dialled 999. The operator stayed online until, within

half an hour, the paramedics arrived with an array of medical gadgets with bells and whistles. After a very thorough and sympathetic examination, with me hooked up to the bells and whistles, the two wonderful paramedics concluded that it was not a heart attack but

“An inquiry is not going to bring them back...

a panic attack. They would still take me to hospital, if I wished, but, after some time doing deep-breathing exercises, the severe pain in my chest and overall nausea went as quickly as it had come.

My psychologist friend from Magherafelt and I decided later, over the phone, that the panic attack had most likely been brought on by a report I heard earlier that day on the Claire Byrne radio show and had filed to my subconscious, only for it to rear its ugly head later and spark the attack. A report that said, given this was before any vaccine rollout, that life might never be the same again in this time of living with Covid-19. That I might never hold and hug my grandchildren again, nor go down the pub for a pint and philosophical discourse, nor travel again, I had also buried in my sub-

conscious.

(Claire was broadcasting from her backgarden shed). I rather not have all this brought back to memory by listening daily to news reports of an inquiry. When a vaccine was finally rolled out I found nothing but utter professionalism and calm and order in how the shots were mass-administered. I also believe that those on the tireless frontline of our health service have enough savvy and knowledge to know what they might do differently the next time around – and there will be a next time. Meanwhile, money would be better spent on looking into those among us still living with long-Covid. They are no small number. Or spent addressing our real ongoing health crises like shortage of hospital beds, years of waiting lists, children with no access to treatment for scoliosis...

19 years jail for sexual abuser

A Co Kilkenny man who sexually abused eight boys has been jailed for 19 years.

The Central Criminal Court heard how John Curtin's abuse of the children, which began 30 years ago and continued over 12 years, had profoundly affected the victims throughout their lives.

They described Curtin, 59, variously as a "monster", "devil", "scumbag" and a "creep."

The court heard how the psychological impacts of the

abuse blighted the lives of Curtin’s victims as they grew up and started families of their own.

They described how their education, relationships, mental health and employment had all been negatively impacted by the ongoing effect of the abuse.

Some of the men told the court of turning to drink or drugs and having suicidal thoughts.

Curtin, with an address at Salome Place, Moneenroe,

Informative day on Crohn's and Colitis

Crohn’s & Colitis Ireland

(CCI) is hosting a Patient Information Day in Carlow on November 16, specifically for those living with or affected by Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, and Microscopic Colitis. This event marks the final in-person gathering of the year and is open to individuals living with and impacted by Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis in the South East region, including Kilkenny, Kildare, Tipperary, Wexford, and Waterford and beyond.

The event will feature a series of informative sessions led by the Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) nurses, dietitians and pharmacists. Topics will include flare management, diet, how to make the most of your appointments, new treatments, understanding IBD, and more.

In addition to the educational sessions, a networking lunch will provide participants with the opportunity to connect with others who live with IBD, fostering a sense of community and mutual support.

Living with IBD can be challenging, but knowledge and support make a significant difference. This Patient Information Day is a great opportunity for individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their condition and to learn practical strategies for managing their health. It’s also a chance to meet others who are on a similar journey.

The event will take place from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Registration is now open on CCI’s website at www.crohnscolitis.ie or by calling 01 531 2983.

Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny, was convicted by a jury last May of 78 counts which included charges of oral rape, anal rape and sexual assault against eight young boys on dates between 1995 and 2007.

He had no previous convictions.

The now-adult complainants have indicated they wish to retain their anonymity but have no issue with Curtin being named.

Passing sentence, Ms

Justice Eileen Creeden said it was clear from all the men’s victim impact statements that they had found the court process extremely difficult and had been re-traumatised as a result of having to go back and relive events in evidence.

She said the abuse had a profoundly negative effect on the men’s whole lives including their relationships, family dynamics, ability to trust and not reaching their full potential in life.

The judge said she must look to the rehabilitation and re-integration of Curtin into the community, but noted a psychological assessment outlined that he continued to deny the charges and had been diagnosed with a depressive disorder.

She said he would benefit from participating in a sex offenders treatment programme to address and reduce his risk of re-offending.

Ms Justice Creedon set

a headline sentence of 20 years. She said she was unable to identify any mitigation, noting Curtin had fully contested the trial and not made any apology or acknowledgement of the jury verdicts.

She imposed a 20-year sentence with the final year suspended for one year on conditions including probation supervision, attending a sexual offenders treatment program and no contact with children.

Journey numbers have reached a record high, with people now using TFI Local Link bus services more than 100,000 times a week across rural Ireland, including 5,150 passengers in Kilkenny, Carlow and Wicklow.

These bus services are provided for the National Transport Authority (NTA) by 15 Local Link Offices around the country. There were 105,986 passenger journeys on TFI Local Link services in the week ending 13 October 2024. This represents a more-than five-

fold increase compared to January 2022, when weekly passenger numbers were at 19,982.

Passenger journey numbers have been increasing consistently for over three years now. The weekly national average was 16,745 in 2021; 36,664 in 2022; and 78,892 in 2023. Now it has surged to 100,000 – a new high.

This dramatic increase in numbers coincides with the rollout of the NTA’s Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan, from January

2022. Since then, over 110 new and enhanced TFI Local Link routes have been introduced under the plan, covering every county.

In Kilkenny, Carlow and Wicklow alone, passenger numbers have increased more than seven-fold, driven by the introduction or enhancement of five key routes. These include:

• Routes 800/885: Baltinglass to Sallins

• Route 183: Arklow to Sallins

•  Route 897: Kilkenny to Athy

The year 2024 is the third year of a five-year implementation plan for Connecting Ireland. Some 60 percent of the proposed services are now in place, with the remainder to be introduced in the coming years.

The new and enhanced services are proving to be very attractive to a new set of customers in rural Ireland, who are choosing TFI Local Link services to get to work, education, healthcare, and social activities.

Bus busy: from left, John Nott, Head of Public Transport Services Planning, Barry Doyle, Assistant Manager Local Link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow, Margaret Malone, head of corporate services, NTA, Minister for Transport and Communications, Eamon Ryan, Jackie Mealy, Manager Local link Carlow Kilkenny Wicklow, and Paddy Guilfoyle, local Link Driver

As I See It Marianne Heron

Children falling through cracks of care system

The unanswered question in many of our minds is how can a child like Kyran Durnin disappear but the alarm is only sounded two years later? The six-year-old boy who had been attending school in Dundalk was last seen in May/June 2022. Tusla, the Child and Family Agency (CFA), had Kyran, his mother and two siblings on their radar, but the little boy was not reported missing until August this year.

How this happened is the subject of two internal enquiries to be reported to Roderic O’Gorman Minister for Children and Minister for Education Norma Foley and cannot be published due to the Garda investigation.

Whatever happened Kyran, now the subject of a possible murder investigation, appears to have fallen through the cracks of a system intended to safeguard children. The shocking fact is that Kyran is not alone, an alarming

number of children have died under Tusla/CFA’s and the State’s watch, 53 of them in the last three years. Distressing data obtained by Peadar Tobin of Aontu, shows that 201 children have died, either while in the care of CFA or under the child protection notification system in the 10 years since Tusla/CFA was founded in 2014 to safeguard and protect children. The causes of death are attributed to natural causes (97), homicides (9) suicides (32) drug overdose (6) road accidents (16) other accidents (16) and unknown causes (25). These appalling figures suggest that there are more cracks in the system which allowed Kyran to disappear and that the provisions designed to keep vulnerable children safe are failing. Equally disturbing is the report from UCD’s Sexual Exploitation Research Programme (SERP), which found that children, mainly girls,

were being abused and sometimes raped by men while under Tusla CFA’s watch.

Just where the problems lie with the system is brought to critical light in the Child Law Project’s report based on judicial child care proceedings from 2021-2024 with a section titled appropriately ‘Falling Through the Cracks.’. The cases “include numerous incidents of abuse and chronic neglect, encompassing serious sexual assault, death threats and non-accidental injury ….. a significant proportion of cases make reference to the child also having special needs and disabilities,” states the project. Among the issues highlighted are the need for significant inter-agency co-operation, the lack of specialist units for child care placements like those in the UK, the need for detention in a therapeutic environment, the shortage of appropriate care placements compared to other jurisdic-

Looking after the man in your life

Looking after the man in your life doesn’t mean handing the responsibility over to someone else. It means you. You need to look after yourself. My top tips to help you do this include maintain a balanced diet, get regular exercise, stay on top of medical screenings, protect your mental health, sleep well, and make sure that you have time for you. These habits and changes could help keep you healthy and fit for longer with a better quality of life. Lack of energy, stress and anxiety are the main issues that I am seeing at the shop. I am getting more questions about supplements to support prostate health too. This is fantastic, but it can be a source of stress as you plan your first visit to the GP. Most of us don’t like baring our wares to a stranger!

There are lots of nutrients to help you achieve your goals. For example, B vitamins can help with energy, zinc supports healthy testosterone, or Ashwagandha, an adaptogenic herb used to help support the body and mind. Always look for the KSM-66 Ashwagandha to be guaranteed it is high quality

Ashwagandha root extract. Ginseng is another fantastic herb traditionally used for overall health and wellbeing. It has lost its place a bit with the emergence of Ashwagandha but it hasn’t lost its amazing benefits. If you are tired and stressed these vitamins, minerals, and herbs could help.

Many of you will be familiar with Cleanmarine for Men, it is now reformulated and I love the fact that they have added in Ashwagandha and Ginseng for extra support to help you raise your game! It is now called Cleanmarine ManoMax. This is a unique all-in-one Omega-3 multivitamin, rich in essential

nutrients providing daily nutritional support for men. It contains Phospholipid Omega-3 DHA providing the essential fatty acids required for the normal function of the brain, B Vitamins, and added KSM-66® Ashwagandha and Ginseng for maximum support.  This unique formulation provides vitamins and minerals designed to support energy levels, the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood, and to support normal cognitive and brain function. Whatever you do, look after you, find your way, you are the man in your life! www.naturalhealthstore.ie/

tions and the lack of appropriate psychological services, including in-patient care. The report found nine cases of child victims of sex trafficking or exploitation. It is glaringly

“Children, mainly girls, were being abused and sometimes raped...

obvious from the report that these shortcomings have been there for years and have not been addressed.

Interviewed on RTE Kate Duggan, chief executive of Tisla/CFA, stated that the agency’s level of referrals now runs at 90,000 a year, 60% of which are welfare concerns where other services are involved. Their 2023 report states under “demand on services’: “ There is a risk to the safety, well-being and welfare of children due to the insufficient capacity/resources to meet existing levels of service demand for Children in Care, Child Protection and Welfare.”

The report describes 260,773 children (0-17) as being in ’enforced deprivation’. According to Tusla’s 2022 report in the last quarter 32% of cases waited more than three months before a social worker was allocated. There is a historic narrative around cruelty and lack of protection of children here,

Celebrate the festive season at Scalini - Kilkenny's premier Italian dining

Scalini Italian Restaurant, nestled in the heart of medieval Kilkenny City, is now taking bookings for Christmas celebrations, offering the perfect venue for intimate family gatherings, corporate events, and festive parties. Since opening our doors, Scalini has quickly established itself as Kilkenny's goto destination for authentic Italian cuisine, earning a reputation for serving the city's finest pizza and pasta. Our

dedication to using premium ingredients and traditional recipes has earned us not just rave reviews, but a loyal following of regular customers who consistently return for our signature dishes.

"The response from the Kilkenny community has been overwhelming," says Fabio Fusco, owner of Scalini.

"We're particularly proud that so many of our first-time guests have become regular patrons, with many claim-

including Mother and Baby homes and sexual abuse in religious-run schools. It seems that narrative is continuing, where 4,500 children are homeless, where treatments are delayed and so many vulnerable children are at risk, even of death. Noeline Blackwell of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has said: ”The whole issue around children who are the most vulnerable is how hidden they have been.” It’s time to ensure that children, who have no voice of their own, are put first. A start might be to have a separate Ministry for Children, rather than one which is crowded together with Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth on Minister Roderic O’Gorman’s desk.

*Tusla has 17 centres in the 32 counties. Their help line (0818776315) is only open 9-5 weekdays, outside these times the Gardai should be notified.

ing they've found their new favorite Italian restaurant."

Christmas at Scalini

This festive season, we're offering:

- Delightful three-course Christmas set menu at €35 per person

- Private dining options for groups of 8-40 people

- Bespoke party packages for corporate events

- Flexible booking times throughout December

Our festive atmosphere, combined with our warm Italian hospitality, provides the perfect setting for your Christmas celebration. Each dish is prepared with passion by our experienced chefs, ensuring your festive gathering is memorable for all the right reasons.

Book your Christmas celebration

Don't miss out on securing your preferred date for your Christmas celebration. Our prime weekend slots are filling quickly.

To make a reservation:

- Phone: 086 2415856

- Email: info@scalini.ie

- Online: www.scalini.ie

Location: 34 St Kieran's Street (beside Kytelers Inn), Kilkenny City Follow us on Instagram: @ scalini.ie

Early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

CLAIR WHITTY

OUR GRADUATES

Friends Molly Nolan from Bagenalstown Co. Carlow, Akina Daly from Cork City, and Adam Rudkins from Gowran Co. Kilkenny, graduating from South East Technological University with Bachelor of Arts in Applied Social Care

ALL PHOTOS: Patrick B Browne

Aod O’Connor from Kilkenny at his conferring with his sister Aoibheann and girlfriend

Kate O’Hara. Aod graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours)

Ryan O Donoghue from Portlaw, Co. Waterford and Jenni O’Dea Piltown, Co. Kilkenny graduated

At SETU conferring ceremonies at SETU Arena in Waterford were Rebecca Kelly, Shannon Conry and Jenna Brennan. The Kilkenny women all graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in General Nursing

Kim Kelly from Kilkenny graduated from SETU with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Psychiatric Nursing. Kim is pictured at SETU Arena in Waterford with her son Charlie and daughter Lilly

Opinion

Life is not all about money, is it? Your Money & You

Escalating energy costs and rising living expenses are placing financial strain on households, driving many to reconsider daily budgets and lifestyle changes.

Income disparity continues to drive poverty rates, leaving many households unable to meet basic needs. Housing costs remain inflated, aggravated by a low housing supply and high rent which also contributes to homelessness. Educational funding shortfalls and inadequate access compound these challenges, affecting future generations’ opportunities and overall well-being.

A recent Mental Health Ireland’s survey, released as part of World Mental Health Day, paints a concerning picture of the mental health landscape. The healthcare sector suffers from long waiting lists and staffing shortages, reducing access to critical mental health services.

John Ellis

Although 89% of respondents take steps to support their mental health weekly, only 10% practice daily selfcare. Barriers like time and financial limitations were the top obstacles, with 32% of people citing time and 31% citing money as deterrents. The survey revealed a deeper gender disparity: 54% of women aged 25-34 reported that financial constraints

prevented them from actively supporting their mental health. For young men it’s different, the challenge is social; many expressing a reluctance to seek support due to a lack of similar behaviour in their social circles.

Despite these barriers, many still prioritise spending time with loved ones (71%), exercising (70%), and enjoying nature (53%) as ac-

cessible ways to boost their mental health. With 99% acknowledging the benefits of nature, there’s widespread agreement that mental health care need not be costly.

The survey results underscore a vital need for greater support and resources across all age groups, with a particular emphasis on learning to manage stress, anxiety, and general mental well-being.

Mental Health Ireland has responded by offering free webinars and tools aiming to make mental health care accessible and practical.

Jo Donohoe, National Development Manager for Mental Health Ireland’s Programmes, emphasised that mental health support should be available for all, regardless of income or time constraints. “There’s lots of simple ways we can mind our mental health every day,” she noted, suggesting activities like sharing a quick coffee with a friend, walking in a park, or just taking a moment to enjoy nature. These small actions can be transformative, even amidst Ireland’s broader economic and social issues.

With rising financial burdens and shared challenges, focusing on accessible and affordable mental health practices is essential. We are being encouraged to explore

simple daily actions to safeguard mental health. Mental Health Ireland’s offers free webinars, which are based on the Five Ways to Wellbeing: Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give.

As Ireland navigates these challenges, solutions must address not only economic and general issues but also the mental health of its citizens. Mental Health Ireland’s initiative underscores that well-being is within reach for everyone, calling on individuals and policymakers alike to prioritise connection, support, and mental health education.

By building a culture that values mental wellness we can better equip ourselves to face the complex challenges ahead. Life is not all about money, is it?

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

&

Is the number of natural disasters increasing?

If we want to reduce the risks of disasters like the severe floods in Spain [pictured], we need to track where they’re happening; what types of events they are; their human and economic impacts; and how these trends change over time.

High-quality data helps us see patterns in the data on factors such as increased resilience, climate change, and humanitarian response.

There are now several dedicated research groups that publish in-depth databases of disaster records.

One of the most widely cited is the International Disaster Database (EM-DAT) of the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED). It is open-access and free and lets anyone dig into the specific details of each recorded disaster. But no disaster database is perfect. Data is incomplete. Its quality varies over time. And some events are either unreported or hard to quantify.

That’s why it’s important to understand the biases and limitations of data sources so that they can be interpreted usefully.

Many of them are explained by EM-DAT itself in its documentation. In this article, we explore several of these biases, which can lead to incorrect conclusions when analysing historical trends.

The increase in the number of disasters is partly a result of reporting bias EMDAT publishes data on the

number of events, deaths, numbers affected, and other metrics since 1900.

There has been a very steep rise in the number of global disasters since the 1980s.

Many organisations, such as the United Nations and World Meteorological Organisation, have reported on this as a dramatic rise in actual disaster events. Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (2023): “According to the International Disaster Database (EM-DAT) of the Centre for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters (CRED), disaster events have increased from 100 a year in the 1970s to around 400 events a year worldwide in the past 20 years.”

UN chief says natural disasters have quadrupled since 1970. This statement was then reported by the UNFCCC.

World Meteorological Organisation (2019) says: “The number of disasters has increased by a factor of five over the 50-year period: whereas 711 disasters were recorded for 1970-1979, 3536 were recorded in 2000-2009.”

UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC): “The number of disasters has increased by a factor of five over the 50-year period, driven by climate change, more extreme weather, and improved reporting.”1

These points were repeated in leading media outlets such as the BBC and The Economist.

These points are correct regarding the number of reported disasters but are unlikely when it comes to the true number of events.

EM-DAT — the data source that these reports rely on — says as much in its limitations section: “Time biases result from unequal reporting quality and coverage over time [...] Technologies and initiatives can be considered responsible for the dominant trend observed. Therefore, it is challenging to infer insight into the actual drivers of disasters such as climate change, population growth, or disaster risk management.”

As it explains, CRED wasn’t created until 1973, when it started compiling disaster data. It wasn’t until 1988 that it took over the disaster database and established EMDAT. This period of trying to develop the first database over the 1970s and 1980s coincides with the steep rise in the number of reported disasters.

EM-DAT also notes that communication technologies developed rapidly over this period — most notably satellites, the Internet, and personal computers. This is likely to have caused a stepwise change in the frequency of reporting across the world. Several publications from CRED over the years warn about the over-interpretation of these trends.

Many smaller events in the past aren’t captured At least some of the ob-

served increase in the number of reported disasters since 1900 is likely to result from increased reporting. Many medium-to-large events can be found in historical records, but smaller events with less damage or fatalities are missing.

A recent paper published in Environmental Hazards analysed the trends in the number of reported disasters in the EM-DAT database since 1900. It looked at the number of events over time at different thresholds of “recorded deaths”. So, the number of recorded events with deaths below 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, and 5,000.

It found that the trend for small events – with less than 200 deaths – increased greatly in the 1980s and 1990s. This suggests that small events are missing in earlier periods of the database, and only in the past 30 or 40 years have they been reported more consistently.

If you look at data from 2000 onwards, there is no clear increase in the number of global disasters.

To be clear: this does not mean that there is no increase in disasters, especially when looking at specific types of events, or specific locations. To establish clear trends on this, people need to look at more focused academic literature. It may also be the case that other databases do find an increase. It also says nothing about the intensity of disasters.

But EM-DAT shouldn’t be

used as evidence that there has been a four- or fivefold increase in the actual number of disasters globally. While there may be an increase, at least some of this is down to improvements in reporting.

There are large gaps in disaster statistics, especially for economic damages

Unsurprisingly, data coverage tended to be poorer in low-income countries where statistical capacity and reporting are more limited.

From 2000 to 2019, only 13% of disasters in Africa and 23% in South Asia reported any economic losses.

Data for total deaths appeared to be much more complete. However, since events in EM-DAT with zero deaths are also recorded as blanks, this estimate includes non-fatal events and those with genuine data gaps. It’s therefore difficult to give a concrete estimate for what share of events have real gaps in their death records.

Users of EM-DAT data should be aware of these potential gaps in data coverage. Particularly for lower-income countries and records from previous decades when reporting was much patchier.

One disaster category that is included in EM-DAT but is likely to be very patchy is extreme temperature. There are several reasons why.

First, the inequalities in reporting on heatwaves across regions are stark. Many regions have poor data coverage, and Sub-Saharan

Africa is almost completely overlooked.

Over half of heat events in EM-DAT were reported across only nine countries: Japan, India, Pakistan, the United States, France, Belgium, the United Kingdom, Spain, and Germany. It’s highly unlikely that these are the only countries experiencing extreme heat events. Such events are just not being recorded or estimated in other regions.

Second, proper quantification of the health effects of extreme temperatures is difficult. We often think about acute or very sudden deaths such as heat strokes. But most heat-related deaths come from an increase in the risk of less obvious conditions such as cardiovascular disease. These seemingly indirect deaths are not noted as being “heat-related” at the time and can only be estimated using various statistical methods later. This is true for both hot and cold-related deaths.

Disasters often have nearterm and acute impacts on human mortality, health, and infrastructure. However, they can also lead to some indirect, medium-to-longterm impacts that are hard to capture.

This is often the case for events such as droughts, where indirect impacts such as malnutrition, food insecurity, and potential impacts of water shortages are harder to quantify — especially in an ongoing or very recent event.

Travel & Leisure

Seven to visit with most snowfall

Aomori City, Japan

Aomori City, the capital of Aomori Prefecture in the Tōhoku region of Japan, is widely regarded as the snowiest city in the world.

According to Accuweather, the city experiences an average of 7.9 metres of snow yearly. Most snowfalls occur between November and April when snow walls stand tall along the edges of cleared roads.

One of the main reasons this city experiences so much snow is that the cold, humid air from northeast Asia collides with the Ou Mountain Range, causing heavy snowfall across the city and the surrounding region. This cold weather and heavy snowfall are a far cry from the city’s hot summer days, where temperatures hit a toasty 28°C.

Valdez, Alaska Alaska is recognised worldwide for its snowy landscapes, so, unsurprisingly, one of the state’s cities is

among the snowiest on Earth. While many people consider Aomori City the snowiest city in the world, Valdez, a city in Southern Alaska, experiences more snowfall. This picturesque coastal city experiences 8.3 metre of snowfall every winter. For context, the deepest snow where people live in the United Kingdom was recorded in Ruthin, North Wales, in 1946-1947, when snow reached 1.65 metres deep. In Valdez, many hours are spent clearing snow and sanding roads to ensure the harsh winter conditions don’t disrupt the local people’s lives.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn, Estonia’s cultural centre and capital, is one of the snowiest cities in Europe. The city experiences 10+ days of snow per month in winter, making it a winter wonderland for travellers, who often visit the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking medieval

architecture.

The snow isn’t as deep in Tallinn as in other places around the globe, so local life goes on relatively easily. If you visit Tallinn in December, you can explore while the Christmas celebrations are in full flow. When you’re not throwing snowballs at your family, get lost among the sights, smells, and tastes of the annual Christmas market. As expected, skiing and snowboarding are also popular in Tallinn.

St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada Like Alaska, Canada is famed worldwide for its snowy landscapes, so you won’t be surprised to hear that a handful of the country’s cities are among the snowiest in the world. One of Canada’s snowiest cities is St John’s, a former English colony on the island of Newfoundland. This historic city averages 3.3 metres of snow every year. During the harshest snowfall,

it’s not out of the question that cars are entirely swallowed by the snow, making it difficult for residents and travellers to get around. As expected, the local government must work hard to clear the streets. On the plus side, St John’s vibrant architecture looks spectacular when served with a snowy backdrop.

Saguenay, Quebec, Canada

Another Canadian city that makes this list of the world’s snowiest cities is Saguenay, where residents can expect an average of approximately 3.14 metres of snow annually. Saguenay is best known for Saguenay Fjord, which leads to the St Lawrence River, making it a big hit with outdoor enthusiasts. However, you’ll need your snowshoes if you visit the city in winter when the snow falls the most. In fact, there are only 5.6 months of the year when it doesn’t snow in Saguenay, so you’d have to time your visit well if you want

to avoid the snowy conditions. The snowless period in Saguenay typically lasts from late April to mid-October.

Buffalo, New York

In Buffalo, New York, heavy snowfall is not uncommon, causing massive disruption to daily lives. In recent years, heavy snowfall has closed schools, cut off power, paralyzed emergency services, and canceled Buffalo Bills matches. Buffalo is famous for its annual snowfall, which averages 2.4 metres.

Explore all your hotel options here

Besides the heavy snowfall, Buffalo is known for its rich history, impressive architecture, proximity to Niagara Falls, and Buffalo sauce. If snow doesn’t disrupt your trip to Buffalo, you’re in for a real treat. Make sure you visit Niagara Falls, Lake Erie, Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Buffalo Naval Park, and Buffalo City

Hall. If you love the snow, visit in November and December.

Sapporo, Japan

Many of the world’s snowiest cities are excellent at embracing heavy snowfall, unlike places like the United Kingdom, where everyday life grinds to a halt after a couple of inches of snow. Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan, is a fine example. Home to almost two million people, Sapporo experiences approximately 4.85 metres of snow yearly.

Quite brilliantly, the city uses the snow to its advantage, hosting an annual event called the Sapporo Snow Festival. During the festival, residents and travellers enjoy delicious food and drink, cultural snow-related activities, and impressive snow sculptures. Furthermore, Sapporo has been known to host various winter sports events, including the 1972 Olympic Winter Games.

Going to visit Thailand soon? Then read this...

Home to paradisiacal islands fringed by turquoise seas, vibrant metropolises that seem to never sleep, and a lush tropical nature so beautiful it looks almost otherworldly, Thailand is on the bucket list of millions of travellers for 2025.

Contrary to previous years, however, there are a couple of big changes coming that will impact Europeans, Americans, and Canadians flying to the Southeast Asian country, so even if you’ve been before, you’ll want to

read up on it in advance. For the first time, most Westerners will need a travel permit to enter Thailand, and it comes into effect as soon as December.

From then onward, tourists will no longer be allowed to board Thailand-bound flights unless they have obtained permission to travel in advance – this document, called Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) applies to all current visaexempt nationals.

Just this year, the European

Union confirmed its travel authorisation system is coming into force at some point in 2025, while the United Kingdom is set to introduce its own from as early as January, so it was only a matter of time until Asia caught up with the trend.

As dispiriting as that might sound to some people, particularly those who hate any kind of travel-related bureaucracy, we should note an ETA is not the equivalent to a visa – in fact, it is much

easier to apply for, and it often gets issued instantly!

All you have to do is create an account for the Thai ETA once it goes live, and complete a form, where you’ll be asked a series of questions relating to your private information and travel information.

Usually an ETA is paid, with prices ranging from €9 to €23, depending on the destination, but in Thailand’s case, it’s completely free of charge.

Once you submit your

application, it will be reviewed within 24 hours, and once the approval gets sent to your email, you’ll be able to download a QR code to flash at the border for faster screening.

If you’re in possession of a valid Thai ETA, you’ll soon be eligible to use eGates upon landing in Thailand for a much speedier border control: no more waiting several long minutes in line, or even filling out those dreaded on-arrival forms.

An eGate is a rapidly-

spreading alternative to manual passport checks, as it allows incoming travellers to ‘check in’ to a country themselves without speaking first to a border agent, using state-of-the-art technology, and biometric readers to monitor new crossings.

So, if you’re traveling to Thailand this winter or anytime after, make sure you apply for an ETA some days in advance , as it can take a whole day for the approval to be issued, and you will need it to board your flight.

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

There is always wars, and rumour of wars

Was there ever a time, I wonder, when there was peace on this planet of ours? I think not and the bickering, the squabbling, the fighting, in my humble opinion, started in the Garden of Eden with Adam and Eve. Here’s how it might have kicked off. Eve: “And what do you call that piece of frizzled, frazzled foliage parked between your thighs?” Adam: “It’s a fig leaf, dear, and it’s covering my jewels.”Eve: “Your JEWELS! Huh. I can think of other names for them but I’m too polite to utter them and besides, You-Know-Who is always listening, always watching.”

Adam: “Who? Big Brother? And are you calling God a peeping Tom?”

Eve: “Funny. Always the smart answer, Mister Man.”

Adam: “And what do you call that piece of crinkled foliage poised precariously between your thighs?

Because whatever it’s meant to be doing it’s obvious you haven’t waxed in weeks.”

That was the start of it. And then there was the episode with the apple which they were forbidden to eat but Eve nevertheless proffered it to Adam who, gobdaw that he was, took a bite. And we know the rest. But apart from Adam taking a bite out of the forbidden fruit (which led to further bickering) God, I reckon, was sick to death of their squabbling and turfed them out of the Garden on their ears, and dishevelled fig-leaves. “Out, out, out” I can hear him roaring. And here we all are today toiling and moiling in this valley of tears. And I personally think it wasn‘t so much the bite out of the apple as the non-stop bickering that God found intolerable.

And the bickering, the squabbling, the conflict go on to this day – it’s called war.

And getting back to the Bible, we have Cain murdering his brother Abel in a jealous rage, Abraham ready to sacrifice, KILL, his own son Isaac, Samson slaying a thousand Philistines with the jawbone of an ass. Some jawbone! Some ass!

And we read about wee David taking down the Philistine giant Goliath with a shot from his sling. There’s no shortage of violence in the Bible, the word of God! Is it any wonder we’re a violent species.

On a very much more serious note, I get upset seeing what’s going on in Gaza. Day after day men, women and children are murdered; day after day, words of outrage and condemnation from world leaders, not least from our own Tánaiste. Words, words, words but no action and the killing goes on. And on and on. And the mighty US (and

America, I believe, will never be great again no matter who’s at the helm) looks on

“And are you calling God a peeping Tom?...

and on, and keeps fuelling the flames of war.

What a pathetic species we are. And seemingly powerless to prevent the constant atrocities. A while back this newspaper ran an article called, Why have aliens not visited earth? There are several theories: firstly, there are no aliens out there, we, homo sapiens (really?) are alone in the Universe. The best creation has to offer?

Scary. Secondly the aliens may have been far more advanced than us and abused their technology (just as we could – think nuclear weapons) and annihilated themselves.

Thirdly, they may still be in the Dark Ages and working on the wheel. My own theory, however, is that they came, they saw – the violence, the carnage, man ‘s godawful inhumanity to man and said: “Let’s get the hell out of here.” And who could blame them?

I’ll finish my rant with a quote by the American historian Paul W Schroeder (1927-2020) that resonates powerfully with me in these murderous, and barbaric, times in which we live: “Trying to eliminate all the possible nests and sources of terrorism through military action is like trying to kill fleas with a hammer; it does more damage to oneself and the environment than to the fleas.”

I’ll leave the last word to the great American composer Leonard Bernstein (who composed the wonderful music to West Side Story, a tragic love story based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet about violence between two rival gangs. Ring a bell?): “This will be our reply to violence: to make music more intensely, more beautifully, more devotedly than ever before.”

I wish, Leonard, I wish...

BY GEOFF ROSE

Those words were not uttered by your favourite bar room cowboy or your friendly Private Eye, but, by the Swedish Sphinx, better known as the legendary Gretta Garbo, who caused a sensation when she spoke on camera for the first time, in the 1930s film “Anna Christie”, which was an adaptation of a Pulitzer Prize winning play by a future Nobel Prizewinner, and the only American playwright to ever achieve that honour, a writer with a very strong Kilkenny connection, Eugene Gladstone O’ Neill. His father James O’ Neill was born in Tinneranny in South Kilkenny in the Barony of Ida, near Rosbercon, and his birth and heritage is claimed by Kilkenny people worldwide.

James O Neill was born on November 15 1849, and although rich in agriculture, Kilkenny suffered greatly during the potato Famine, and like many an Irish family, the O'Neills, emigrated to the United States when James was 5 years old.

James had a very basic education, but for an ambitious Irish Catholic in America, a country still openly hostile, to both Irish people, and his devout beliefs, he succeeded where others failed. The Theatre offered one of the few opportunities for success and work on a regular basis. He made his professional stage debut as an actor in The Colleen Bawn by the Dublin playwright Dion Boucicault in Cincinnati.

After a spell acting in New York, James moved to San Francisco, where his portrayal of Christ in a Passion Play won widespread praise from the critics of the day. For all his wealth and fame, James O’Neill’s personal life was not without its problems. He married Mary –Ellen Quinlan in 1875, and in time they had two sons, Jamie, and later Eugene, who was born in a New York hotel, the Barrett House, a residential hotel, on 43rd Street and Broadway, right in the heart of Times Square, on October 16th 1888. Eugene spent his early childhood, travelling with his parents, in hotel rooms, on trains, and backstage, and was educated in boarding schools, he spent his summers in a modest family summer home in New London, Connecticut. In 1911 he saw the Abbey Theatre Players, who were on tour in the United States, and was very taken by John Millington Synge’s Riders to the Sea, and T.C. Murrays Birthright. His Broadway debut came in 1920 with Beyond the Horizon and gained him the first of 4

Eugene O’ Neill, A Kilkenny Nobel Prize-winner

“Gimme a whisky, ginger ale on the side...and don’t be stingy baby.”

Pulitzer Prizes, the others were for Anna Christie, Strange Interlude and Long Day’s Journey into Night.

Between 1920 and 1943 he wrote 20 full-length plays as well as a number of shorter plays. Like his father 40 years earlier, Eugene O’Neill soon became a household name throughout the USA. His success, and his life, was ravaged by alcoholism and depression, which led to many difficult situations throughout his personal and writing life. He was given to long brooding silences and was capable of destructive drinking bouts. One of his drinking haunts was known as ‘The Hell Hole’ and it was there that he met and fell in love with Agnes Boulton. His father James dies, and

some time later, his mother suffers a stroke and also dies. Eugene does not attend her removal or her funeral, and when a family friend attempts to persuade Eugene to meet the train carrying his mothers remains, O’Neill just shakes his head and walks away. But, it was during rehearsals for his play The Hairy Ape that he met an actress named Carlotta Monterey. She was born Hazel Tharsing, and was darkly beautiful in a way that suited her assumed name, she was imperious of manner, highlystrung and given to passionate self-dramatisation. Carlotta had been married 3 times, and was at present the mistress to an elderly Banker, who paid her 14,000 dollars a year, which continued even after their relationship ended.

stage, he refused to allow any of his 9 plays to be produced until 1946. He emerged with perhaps his most popular play

Charlie Chaplin had said of her, “that she longed to control the destiny of a great man, to devote herself to his work, and live in his shadow.” When the pair eloped to Europe it caused a scandal, he was by now America's leading playwright, and his constant experimenting, changed the course of world theatre, forever. In 1931, now married, he and Carlotta returned home to the United States and for most of the rest of their lives together, lived in elegant homes at Sea Island, Georgia, and Tao House in California.

O’Neill’s position as one of the nation's leading playwrights was confirmed in 1936 when he won the Nobel Prize for Literature, an honour which added to his membership of the American Academy of Letters and the Irish Academy of Letters. After a self imposed exile from the

The Iceman Cometh, telling of the pipedreams of a group of barflies. The production enjoyed considerable success in both New York and London.

In 1943, O’Neill’s daughter, Oona, abandoned her career at the tender age of 17, and married the 57-year-old, 3 times divorced film actor and comedian Charlie Chaplin, against her parents’ wishes. Carlotta said that her name must never again be mentioned in their home. The Chaplin’s marriage defied all the gossip, and endured, by being both long and happy, and in time their daughter Geraldine developed into a fine stage actress and dancer, and later a film star of international standing.

Eugene and Carlotta had a very tempestuous marriage, and years later after winning the Nobel Prize, he developed Parkinson’s disease which left him unable to write. In his last years his hands shook so badly he was unable to

hold a pencil, and yet it was towards the end that he wrote his autobiographical masterpiece Long Day’s Journey into Night, writing “This play of old sorrow, written in tears and blood.... with deep pity and understanding and forgiveness for all four Tyrone’s.” He requested that it should not be performed for 25 years, until after his death. It was while talking to his son Eugene junior, on March 11th 1946, shortly before his death, that O’Neill pondered on his identity and said “one thing that explains more than anything else about me, is the fact that I am Irish, and strangely enough, it is something that all writers who have attempted to explain me, and my work, have overlooked,” he said. This assertion has been somewhat forgotten by many, but it is a fact that will not be ignored or forgotten in Kilkenny, where James O’Neill was born almost 173 years ago, and whose son Eugene went on to become one of the greatest playwrights of this or any century, and whose work and reputation continues to grow, on the stages and theatres of the world.

Eugene O’Neill died in 1953 in his final home, the Hotel Shelton in Boston, seeing no one except his doctor, a nurse, and Carlotta, his third wife. His final words were “born in a Goddamn hotel room, and goddamnit, dying in a hotel room.”

Geoff Rose is a member of Lake Productions, Kilkenny and the Local History Group at Rothe House Kilkenny. With thanks to Thomas Kavanagh, The

Eugene O’Neill International Festival of theatre, New Ross for help with photos.

Eugene O’Neill with his wife Agnes and their two children.

Photo: Hulton Archive

A sill from the 1913 film The Count of Monte Cristo

The home of playwright Eugene O’Neill

Author O’Neill on the cover of Time magazine

Possibly one of his greatest works, Long Day's Journey into Night with Katharine Hepburn and Sir Ralph Richardson

Actor James O’Neill, born in Tinneranny in 1845

Artwork poster with James O’Neill

The Last Word

Pat Coughlan

Alternative Protestants and the Spirit of 1798

In 1798, the United Irishmen sought independence from British rule. Inspired by the French and American revolutions, they advocated fair voting, religious equality, and equal rights, uniting diverse backgrounds for freedom. Leaders included Theobald Wolfe Tone, Henry Joy McCracken, Lord Edward FitzGerald, James Napper Tandy, and Robert Emmet. However, the rebellion faltered due to poor planning, British strength, and rebel infighting. Wolfe Tone died tragically, McCracken and others faced execution or exile, yet the uprising’s legacy fuelled future Irish nationalist movements against British rule.

Claire Mitchell’s book Alternative Protestants and the Spirit Of 1798 stands out as a lively dance in an ancient library. It’s a treasure trove of insights, diving into the mysterious world of alternative Protestantism. Claire Mitchell [pictured] unwraps this mystery like a magician, each discovery feeling as surpris-

ing as pulling a rabbit from a hat. She delves into Protestant identity and those who joined with their Catholic neighbours challenging the status quo during 1798. Her narrative invites you to rethink the colourful weave of faith and identity. Mitchell’s book offers both knowledge and entertainment on an enlightening historical journey. With a background steeped in religious identity and conflict studies, Claire Mitchell has danced her way through the academic world, gathering knowledge. She’s not just sneaking peeks through the cracks of history; she’s jumping right in with a pen ready for action. Her work shakes up our thoughts on religious identity, promising an exciting and lively journey. In the tumultuous year of 1798, the Irish Rebellion boiled over. This dramatic event captured even the most reserved historian’s attention. Fuelled by the United Irishmen, the rebellion sought to unite people from all walks

against British control. Although their plans fell short, the rebellion left a deep mark on Ireland’s memory. Amid gunfire echoing across green hills, alternative Protestantism emerged, showing key figures in a grand story of faith and rebellion.

Imagine religion as a vibrant palette, and alternative Protestantism as a lively splash against traditional Protestantism’s grey. Claire Mitchell tells this tale, presenting the movement as a dance just outside the accepted norm. These alternative Protestants craft a unique faith.

In 1798, they were rebels and reformers, questioning rather than conforming to fit the revolutionary spirit. For Claire Mitchell, alternative Protestantism isn’t a minor note in religion’s story; it’s a dynamic chapter redefining faith’s possibilities, exemplifying individuality within the broader belief landscape. Claire Mitchell presents these alternative Protestants as rebels pushing against

traditional faith’s constraints. The book highlights the min gling of faith and identity, with the author portraying these individuals as trail blazers, shaking the status quo and splashing vibrant colours on a grey wall of history. Her insights en courage a fresh perspective on the edges of religious identity, celebrating the brilliance of individuality within the broader story of belief.

The book has become es sential reading for those interested in the vibrant history of Protestant ism.

Those of us living in Kilkenny and familiar with 1798 and Vinegar Hill will broaden our view of the rebel lion as just a local skirmish and will help us to see what we have in common with what Claire Mitchell calls ‘alterna tive Protestants’.

Kilkenny men and

women

remembered on Armistice day

Great War Me-

committee will host a commemoration to honour Armistice day this Sunday. The following is a statement received by The Observer from their committee Another year has passed and November is here again. Looking at the memorial in the Peace Park to the over 800 men and women from Kilkenny who died in the Great War 1914-18 it is time to organise and prepare another event for Armistice Day commemorations in Kilkenny.

We have been planning the order of Ceremony and we have put together a very poignant running order for the event. In the ceremony we will have poetry, prayers,

music, wreath laying, last Post and Reveille and the raising of the National Flag followed by the National Anthem

On Nov. 10, the Germans received word that Kaiser Wilhelm II had abdicated and instructions from the new government that they should sign the armistice. At 5 a.m. on Nov. 11, the armistice was agreed upon. Marshal Foch sent word to Allied commanders that “Hostilities will be stopped on the entire front beginning at 11 o'clock, November 11th (French hour). The Allied troops will not go beyond the line reached at that hour on that date until further orders.” The war on the Western Front had finally come to an end.

Though one of several armistices signed in 1918, it is the armistice of Nov. 11 that left a lasting global legacy.

On Nov. 11, 1918, after more than four years of horrific fighting and the loss of millions of lives, the guns on the Western Front fell silent. Although fighting continued elsewhere, the armistice between Germany and the Allies was the first step to ending World War I. The global reaction was one of mixed emotions: relief, celebration, disbelief and a profound sense of loss.

You are cordially invited to join us for the ceremony at 4pm at the memorial in the Peace Park on Sunday next November 10th. This is an outdoor event.

The Kilkenny

morial

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

ferent takes on the Kytelar story, we know precious little about her hapless maid, who paid the supreme price for Alice’s losing battle against Richard Ledrede, the Bishop of Ossary.

Petronella is reputed to have been born in about 1300, was a native of County Meath, and got a position in her early 20s in Kilkenny as a servant of Alice Kytelar. Though deemed to be of a lower social class, she was treated with respect from day one by her new employer, who quickly grew to like the shy, diligent maid.

Obsessed with witches and heresy…

magical potion that enabled the two women to fly!

Not content with extracting confessions in the torture chamber, her tormenters forced Petronella to declare before a public assembly that both she and Alice were fully-fledged witches and in league with the Evil One. Alice herself managed to escape from Kilkenny, fleeing to an unknown destination in England, so Ledrede opted to vent all his anger and loathing on her maid. Petronella’s coaccused got off lightly, but the woman, he decided, must suffer.

and at the Tholsel, where the last tragic act of this true-life horror story may have been enacted

Time to say “sorry” to Petronella?

This month we recall a dark day in the history of Kilkenny. The burning alive of a woman erroneously accused of witchcraft 700 years ago is still source of shame, horror, and

bafflement even today.

The Kilkenny Heritage Walkers had their own tribute to Petronella on Saturday, enacted by veteran member Marianne Kelly. Marianne took a large contingent through the ancient streets and laneways, in the footsteps of possibly the most wronged woman ever to set foot in the city.

We’ve heard the story of Alice Kytelar many times: how

the wealthy lady of Flemish origin fell foul of powerful enemies, how she was assisted by equally powerful allies… the persistent rumours of her dabbling in black magic, and, notoriously, her alleged poisoning of three husbands and attempted murder of a fourth But though we’ve listened to all the historians, poets, balladeers, and wisecracking tour guides offering their dif-

All went well for the Meath woman until Alice’s fourth husband died in what was thought to be highly suspicious circumstances. Her previous three had similarly expired under a cloud of suspicion. But instead of facing charges of murder or attempted murder Alice instead found herself accused of witchcraft, thanks to the Bishop’s obsession with tracking down women who were, he believed, in league with the Devil.

Bishop Ledrede had studied demonology on the continent, and was anxious to hunt down witches and root out heresy in his new Kilkenny stomping grounds. Alice seemed to fit the bill, so he invoked all his powers to crush this fiercely independent- minded lady. Petronella was among those caught up in his obsessional scheme. She was arrested along with a number of Alice’s other employees, relatives, and associates.

Petronella was tortured on Bishop Ledrede’s orders and all of the gruesome methods of “persuasion” approved by the notorious Holy Inquisition were applied to extract confessions from her.

Under extreme duress, she was forced to confess that Alice had consulted with demons and concocted evil potions to achieve her life goals, and had ritualistically denied the teaching of Christ and his church. She even agreed that she and Alice had devised a

She was tried by an ecclesiastical court and convicted of heresy. Ledrede felt it apt that the accused woman should suffer maximum discomfort and pain prior to her ultimate and inevitable demise. He ordained that she be whipped through six parishes. She must then, in accordance with the sentence, be burned alive as a heretic. The exact location of the burning is uncertain, but tradition states that it occurred near where the Tholsel stands in High Street, with the bishops and clergy gathered around to witness “justice”, as they saw it, being done.

John Clyn, a Franciscan chronicler in the city, recorded the execution thus: "Petronilla de Midia ... was condemned for sorcery, lot taking and offering sacrifices to demons… consigned to the flames and burned.”

Marianne brings the past to life…

At Saturday’s special Heritage Walkers event, Marianne Kelly recalled in sombre and reverential tones the fate of Petronella, bringing to life her tragic story. The walkers stopped at key points in the city associated with the haunting tale: the castle…the old

The larger than usual turnout of followers were stunned into silence by Marianne’s recollection of a great injustice enacted in the name of religion. In keeping with the spirit of the occasion she had donned a 14th century costume. In her meticulously researched tribute, she recreated the execution…how the innocent woman, already covered in cuts and bruises from the torture and whipping, was led with hands bound above her head to the stake, and strapped to it. With clergy in flowing vestments gathered around, a signal was given to ignite the firewood. The alleged Men of God prayed and chanted as Petronella was consumed by the flames. She was the first alleged witch to die in Ireland, and one of the first in all of Europe. Marianne explained that Petronella had served as a “scapegoat” for the crimes, real or alleged, of others. She noted that though she had yet to be honoured and posthumously exonerated in the city, the 14th century woman had been included in a remarkable piece of feminist artwork displayed in New York’s Brooklyn Museum, taking pride of place with other notable woman throughout the ages such as Joan of Arc.

There’s a growing consensus in Kilkenny that it’s time to formally recognize this 700 yearsold miscarriage of justice. Can the Catholic Church in Ireland bring itself to admit, formally and publically, that what happened to Petronella was wrong?

It’s never too late to say “sorry.”

Inn in Kieran Street where she probably worked as a maid…

Tradition has it that Petronella met her end at a spot close to where the Tholsel stands in High Street

Marianne Kelly suitably attired recalls a dark day in Kilkennys past

The fate of Petronella still has the power to shock and disgust even seven centuries later

Paddy Neary of the Heritage Walkers with Marianne Kelly in 14th century costume and former Mayor Betty Manning

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has vowed a “a tooth-breaking response” against Israel and the United States “for what they are doing against Iran” and its proxies, according to reports from the Associated Press (AP).

The comments came a day after Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Khamenei, said Iran had the capacity to produce nuclear weapons and was prepared to change its policies on using them if faced with an existential threat, as the country engages in a highstakes tit-for-tat with Israel.

Kharrazi also said the country was likely to increase the range of its ballistic missiles.

“If an existential threat arises, Iran will modify its nuclear doctrine. We have the capability to build weapons and have no issue in this regard,” Kharrazi told the Lebanese broadcaster Al Mayadeen . Kharrazi added that “the only thing currently prohibiting this is the leader’s fatwa.” Khamenei issued a fatwa, or religious ruling, against nuclear weapons in 2003.

General Mohammad Naeini, a spokesperson for Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, added to a rising chorus of escalatory remarks from Iranian officials, saying: “A decisive and strong response will be given to the enemy’s new aggression. The response will be beyond the enemy’s comprehension, strategic, and powerful.”

He said: “The enemy [Israel] must learn its lesson that it cannot engage in any act of hostility without receiving a crushing response in return.”

CIA Director William Burns said earlier in October that the United States had no evidence that Iran had decided to build a nuclear weapon, but that Iran could quickly — within a week or so — secure enough material for an atomic bomb if it chose to, and there would be less time for the world to respond.

A State Department spokes-

Ukrainian troops have already wiped out at least 40 “elite” North Korean soldiers deployed by Vladimir Putin to regain his invaded Kursk territory.

It comes just 10 days after thousands of soldiers from Pyongyang were sent deep inside Russia to help Moscow win its bloody war against Ukraine.

Putin and ruthless dictator Kim Jong-un have been forging a close relationship to form what has been dubbed an ‘Axis of Evil’ against the West.

The North Korean tyrant is now committed to helping out a desperate Putin – who has been losing a record number of men – to win back Kursk.

He has sent 10,000 troops to help them fight off Kyiv’s troops in the Kursk region and win the “holy war”.

However, up to 40 North Korean soldiers have already been killed during their first engagement with Ukrainian troops in Kursk.

Iran ups the anti on nuclear threat

person told NBC News that the US remains very concerned with Iran’s nuclear activities.

“The President has made clear: We are committed to never letting Iran obtain a nuclear weapon— and we are prepared to use all elements of national power to ensure that outcome,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added that the US intelligence community continues to assess that the supreme leader has not made a decision to resume its nuclear weapons program.

“That said,” the spokesperson added, “we take any nuclear escalation by Iran incredibly seriously and will respond accordingly.”

The Pentagon said it would deploy B-52 bombers, fighter jets, refuelling aircraft and Navy destroyers to the Middle East in a readjustment of military assets as the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group

prepares to leave the region.

“Should Iran, its partners, or its proxies use this moment to target American personnel or interests in the region, the United States will take every measure necessary to defend our people,” Pentagon spokesperson Air Force Major General Patrick Ryder said in a statement.

Iran has long denied it was seeking a nuclear weapons programme since abandoning it after Khamenei’s 2003 fatwa.

Netanyahu said Israel had unprecedented freedom of action after the recent airstrikes against Iran.

“We can reach any place in Iran as necessary,” he said in a speech. “The supreme goal I gave to the Israel Defence Forces and the security branches is to prevent Iran from achieving a nuclear weapon.”

Israel recently hit Iran with three waves of predawn strikes

on military targets, in what US officials and others had hoped would be the last shot in a hostile exchange between the two regional powers.

The strikes came weeks after Iran launched a barrage of missiles at Israel in retaliation for its assassinations of leaders of Hamas and Iran-backed Hezbollah. The escalation came as Israel refocused from the war in Gaza triggered by the October 7, 2023 terror attacks to fight the Lebanese militia and political group with whom it had been trading blows for a year.

Comments from Supreme Leader Khamenei, made on the eve of anniversary of the 1979 storming of the American embassy in Tehran, are the latest sign that Iran may not let Israel’s strikes go without response.

Iran had initially downplayed the impact of Israel’s strikes on its military facilities, but in recent days has begun

to voice increasingly belligerent rhetoric.

Several Iranian officials made separate statements earlier. Hossein Salami, commander of the IRGC, threatened “an unimaginable response” for Israel’s attack, Tasnim, the semi-official Iranian news agency reported.

Deputy commander of IRGC, Ali Fadavi said: “Iran’s response to Israel’s aggression is certain.”

“For over 40 years we have never left an act of aggression unanswered, and we have the capability to target all of the Zionist regime’s assets in a single operation,” Fadavi said, referring to Israel.

Kamal Kharrazi’s statement referenced Iran’s historical reliance on Europe as a diplomatic lifeline, which appears to have deteriorated.

“In the matter of missile range, we have so far considered Western sensitivities, particularly those of the Eu-

North Korean troops prove futile against Ukraine

One severely wounded survivor who is now being treated in a field hospital said: “Russian dogs rushed us to attack,” but that the Ukraini-

ans had “covered us in artillery and drones”.

Speaking of the bloodbath assault from Kyiv, which happened near the village of

Lyubimovka, he said: “There were 40 of us, but all are dead.

“I am all alone here now, I have nothing left to lose.”

Heavily bandaged and lying in what appears to be a makeshift hospital bed, the soldier revealed the horror of the assault, saying that his

ropeans,” he said. “When they disregard our sensitivities, especially regarding the territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran, there is no reason for us to consider their concerns.”

“There is a possibility that the range of Iran’s missiles may increase,” he said. In 2015, during the administration of President Barack Obama, Iran sealed a nuclear deal with the US and other world powers, promising to curb its nuclear programme in exchange for billions of dollars in sanctions relief. But in 2017, then-President Donald Trump withdrew from the plan, saying it did not curtail Iran’s ballistic missile programme or the influence of Iran’s powerful proxies in the region. Since the US exit, Iran has steadily blown through the restrictions on its nuclear activities and blocked international inspectors from seeing some nuclear sites.

brother[s] Kim and Minho had been killed and that he had survived by hiding under headless bodies.

He claims that he was told that they would be guarding infrastructure, but that the North Koreans were “betrayed” and were “sent on an assault in the Kursk region”.

The soldier added: “The Russians did not provide us with anything.

“They threw us into an assault without prior intelligence, without ammunition, without normal weapons.”

Choe Son Hui, North Korea’s foreign minister who met Kremlin’s top diplomat Sergei Lavrov in Moscow recently, said: “Kim Jong-un gave us orders that we should invariably and powerfully support and provide assistance to the Russian army and their holy war.”

But ever since North Korean military presence on Russian soil was confirmed, several experts have cast doubts over the military abilities of Pyongyang’s troops.

PHOTO: Frereric Paulussen / Unsplash

A volley of shots rang out and Republican volunteers Murp and Phelan were dead

By Ger Cody

Photos: jbs photos kilkenny

19.00 hours: Assembly at Officer’s Mess, James Stephens Barracks Kilkenny.

A talk on the lives and deaths of John Phelan and John Murphy. Both men were executed and buried at Kilkenny military Barracks on December 29th, 1922. Unfortunately, the remains of those executed by the State would be interred in military barracks and prisons around the country. It wasn’t until October 1924 that they were finally released to their families for burial.

And so, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the handing over of the bodies, a talk was held to remember these men and others, during Ireland’s Civil War.

Allow me to interject with an aside. At the end of the talk, the following conversation was overheard; Civilian: “Apologies for being late. Did you start on time?”

Army Man: “We did. You’ll find that happens a lot at an Army Barracks.”

Both saw the humour. Well if timing is important in army life, then so too are facts and attention to detail.

The geography and statistics of Kilkenny folk involved, and the different battles which took place over the Civil War period, was a lesson in research and presentation. One can only appreciate the amount of man hours that went into putting this night together. Facts and figures gathered, checked and double checked. The two men responsible for the planning and presentation were Commandant Larry Scallan (retired) and army man in charge of the military museum, Jim O’Keeffe. Jim opened proceedings by giving a synopsis of the Civil War and explaining how the opening months in 1922 were highly successful for the pro-treaty side. The conventional warfare had secured Dublin and Cork as well as other cities and towns around the country. Jim explained “as the war continued, the anti-Treaty side turned to guerilla warfare. Their new tactics brought an upsurge of

casualties on the pro-treaty and damaged the infrastructure and economy of the country, which not only threatened the pro-treaty ability to wage war but the new state itself.”

In response to this threat, the new Dáil, in September 1922, introduced the Army Emergency Resolution, commonly known as the Public Safety Bill. The resolution was an attempt to prevent a long and costly war by suppressing the anti-treaty forces into surrender. It gave extraordinary powers to the Army Council in which to set up military courts or committees that could impose sentences ranging from imprisonment to death. The establishment of such military courts would not only lead to the arrest and imprisonment of thousands of anti-treaty forces throughout the Civil War, but also to State sanctioned execution throughout the country.

The first county outside the Pale to experience executions was County Kilkenny. On the morning of December 29 1922, John Phelan and John Murphy were

executed and interred at Kilkenny Military Barracks. It wasn’t until October 1924 that the bodies were finally released to their families for burial.

Bodies handed over

On the 28 of October 1924, the bodies of Kilkenny men John Murphy, Bennettsbridge, and John Phelan, Thomastown, were handed over to their relatives, along with the bodies of Wexford men Thomas Crean, John Hogan and James Parle, who were executed in Wexford. The bodies of the three Wexford men were brought to Kilkenny on the transfer of the battalion from Wexford. That same day, a hearse accompanied by two members of each family were allowed to enter the military barracks to collect the double coffins containing the remains of their relatives. As the remains left the military barracks, the officer and troops present, as a sign of respect, saluted. The five coffins were covered with Tricolours and a guard of honour made up of Volunteers and Cumann na mBan was formed. The

procession

James Stephens Barracks Kilkenny

Jim O’Keeffe (Museum Curator at James Stephens Barracks), David O’Sullivan and Michael Brannigan

Paddy Neary, Micheál Hoyne and Tom Kennedy

Marianne Kelly, Sheila Kirby and Bridget Gleeson

John White (grandson of John Phelan) and Billy Dunne

headed by St. John's Brass band then marched through the streets where businesses had closed, and large crowds had formed to pay their respect. The remains of John Murphy and John Phelan were brought to Thomastown where they were received at the entrance of St Mary's churchyard by Rev. John Doody, C.C.

Primary source documents on display

On display at James Stephens Barracks was a collection of tangible primary source documents in relation to the handover of the remains of John Murphy and John Phelan. This collection

was kindly given on loan from the military archives in Dublin and according to Jim O’Keeffe, it’s the first time they have been on public display outside of the military archives itself.

On display were notification letters from the Adjutant General Hugo McNeill dated 13th October 1924, informing the Murphy and Phelan families that the Executive Council has decided that the remains of all men executed during the Civil War, would be handed over to their relations and if they wish to claim their remains they had to notify him on or before the 20 October.

Also on display were handwritten letters from both the Murphy and Phelan families, dated 17 October 1924, notifying Adjutant General McNeill, of their wish to claim the remains of their family members, as well as similar letters written by the relations of Patrick Hogan, James Parle and John Creane who were executed in Wexford in March 1923 and interned in the Kilkenny military barracks. There were also military reports of the handing over and the burial of the remains, from 5th Brigade Headquarters in the Military Barracks Kilkenny to General Officer Commanding Eastern Command.

History of John Phelan and John Murphy Larry Scallan gave a wonderful insight into the background of

volunteers Murphy and Phelan. At 8am on 29th December 1922 a firing party assembled in the exercise yard of Kilkenny Military Barracks. On command, a volley of shots rang out.  The execution, complete. Volunteers John Murphy and John Phelan, members of the 5th Battalion Kilkenny Brigade Irish Republican Army, were dead.

The results of the 16th June General election in Carlow Kilkenny gave overwhelming support to pro-treaty Sinn Féin, as they garnered 86% of the vote and won all four seats. Early setbacks forced the anti-treaty side to resort to guerrilla warfare even though such tactics were ill suited to Kilkenny, which lacked the requisite forests, woodland, mountainous areas or the large tranches of ground cover in which to hide.

Kilkenny was in chaos. Continuing their campaign, Republican forces carried out a number of military operations throughout the county. John Murphy and John Phelan were members of an active service unit that carried out a raid on Sheestown House, on the periphery of the city. The raid was reported to the authorities by Lt. Col Shee, the owner.

On the 13th December John and Patrick Murphy along with John Phelan were arrested at the Murphy family home in Barronslands, Bennettsbridge and brought, under escort, to Kilkenny Military Barracks. Over the following days, Brigade Commander G eneral Prout convened a Court Martial Board, in accordance with the rules and procedures defined by Judge Advocate General Cahir Davitt. The officer in charge of legal advice for the conduct of the trial was Commandant Joseph Mooney. Prior to D ecember 22nd, the three officer Court Martial Board found John Murphy and John Phelan guilty and sentenced them to death. The death sentence was ratified by two members of the Army Council, abiding by the rules governing the conduct of Court Martials at that time.

To complement the night, a short film Dear Mother was shown. Written by Kevin Hughes, who was in attendance on the night, the film is set during the Irish Civil War in 1922 and tells the tragic true story of John Murphy and John Phelan. The Hughes film was shot on location in the detention cells at James Stephens Barracks

where Murphy and Phelan spent their final days.

Jim O’Keeffe (Museum Curator at James Stephens Barracks) with his wife Marie Bill Bergin and Phil Cody from the Saturday Walkers group Betty and Brian Manning

Eoin Phelan, John Phelan, John White, and Paddy Murphy (relatives of John Murphy and John Phelan)

Kevin Hughes, whose short film a ‘Dear mother’ was shown at the Military Barracks

Ann-Marie Maher from The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee

Ronan Fawsitt and Rory O’Mahony

Dr Gerry O’Keeffe

Orla Murphy pictured with Larry Scallan

Councillor John Brennan delivers on his promise for major capital investment for North Kilkenny

Local Fine Gael Councillor John Brennan stated that he is very pleased with progress in relation to projects in the Clogh Moneenroe and Castlecomer area. He stated that works on a new footpath in Clogh village is currently work in progress and also work on the foothpath in the Glen in Moneenroe is also work in progress. Roads included in the next three year programme include: Maryville Housing Estate Castlecomer, Side Road Moneenroe and Old Road Moneenroe.

Also included in the next three year programme are footpath repairs in Clogh and Moneenroe and many other areas of North Kilkenny. In relation to the provision of a new water supply Cllr. Brennan stated that two new bore wells are being tested at present and hopefully this will solve the longstanding problem with the public water supply. There are also plans to provide a new treatment plant. The overall investment is in the region of 12 to 15 million Euro. 35 new Housing units are to be built and other major capital projects are all in the pipeline. Cllr. Brennan concluded that this is fantastic news for Castlecomer and North Kilkenny.

‘Palimpsest’

A permanent public art sculpture by artist Pauline O’Connell in the Mayfair City Library, Kilkenny

As part of The Per Cent for Art Scheme for The Mayfair City Library, Kilkenny, ‘Palimpsest’ (a cultural project that creatively intertwines history, music, literature, sculpture and social engagement) by Kilkenny-based visual artist Pauline O Connell was commissioned in 2024 to commemorate the former history of the Mayfair Ballroom 19431973, and its rejuvenation as a modern library.

The installation consists of thirty-two bronze books, each featuring a song title referencing the most popular musical number 1 hit of that year. These books are placed on wooden shelves inscribed with personal quotes from people who danced there during that period, providing insight into the social history of the era.  Additionally, books that were previously banned from that time are

Step into a world of holiday enchantment at Santa's Magical Village in Castlecomer – a Santa experience like no other!

This holiday season, immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas like never before! From November 29th to December 23rd, Castlecomer transforms into Santa’s Magical Village, a multi-room, immersive Santa experience that promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Christmas wonder.

Set in a beautifully decorated multi room adventure, this exclusive event invites families to embark on a private, guided tour of Santa’s Workshop, filled with sights, sounds, and joyful surprises that captivate both children and adults.

More than just a visit to Santa’s Grotto, each step of this magical journey has been thoughtfully designed to make lasting memories.

A unique journey to the heart of Christmas Upon arrival, Santa’s elves welcome guests with holiday cheer before guiding each family into the enchanting world of Santa’s Workshop. During the tour, families will meet Mrs.

Claus, who shares heartwarming holiday stories, and even catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer as they prepare for their big Christmas Eve journey! Each room along the way draws families deeper into the spirit of Christmas, culminating in a one-on-one meeting with Santa himself, where every child receives a special holiday gift to cherish.

“Our 2023 Santa experience received glowing reviews from families who were touched by the intimate, personal atmosphere we created. We’re thrilled to welcome back the same Santa who brought so much magic last year, ensuring this year’s event will be just as enchanting.”

What guests are saying Emma, a delighted visitor, shared her experience, saying “I brought my kids here to the Santa's Magical Village experience. They had so much fun, and it was so exciting and enjoyable. The set was amazingly detailed, and the elves were

so helpful and upbeat. Even as an adult, I appreciated the huge amount of thought and planning behind it. As soon as the experience finished, he was asking to go again!”

Katie added “This place was absolutely amazing! I brought my two children, and they absolutely loved it. It was such a magical and great experience. I highly recommend it – 10/10!”

Secure your spot for this exclusive holiday event Tickets are available now on Ticketmaster (search Santa’s Magical Village), but space is limited! Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary holiday experience that promises to become a treasured family tradition. Reserve your spot today and create memories that will last a lifetime. This is not just another visit to Santa; it’s a magical, heartwarming journey through Christmas itself. Step into Santa’s Magical Village in Castlecomer and make this holiday season truly unforgettable!

interspersed throughout the installation.

Pauline O'Connell is an Irish multidisciplinary artist whose 30-year career utilises an expanded sculptural practice that focuses on themes of memory, history, and community and incorporates personal narratives and micro-histories to create spaces that bridge art and lived experience.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT: As part of this project, the artist has invited cultural experts to respond by hosting workshops and talks in the library that aim to foster new dialogues and connections on various topics

The second talk is by writer, filmmaker and historian Michael Twomey, entitled ‘Wish You Were Here: The Redbarn Story’ It takes place on Saturday, November 9th 2024.

Michael’s film will also be screened daily from 2:30 -5 pm at the Mayfair Library the week previous and on the morning of the talk.

Michael Twomey will explore the dynamics of change brought to Irish society by the ‘soft revolution’ of the dance halls in the 1960s and 1970s. Showcasing clips from his film, ‘Wish You Were Here: The Redbarn Story’ (2017), Michael will discuss how the new wave of American and British music, and its peculiar Irish hybrid of Country and Rock ‘n’ Roll, inspired a change in attitude among the younger generation coming out of the political, social and religious stagnation of the 1950s. He will explore how the sweaty dance halls became epi-centres for a cultural phenomenon that danced its way into modern Ireland.

This event on Saturday, November 9th will commence at 2 pm in the museum room (located on the right, as you enter the library’s main doors) and run until 3:30 pm. The artist will briefly introduce the project before Michael’s talk. Guests will have the opportunity to experience O'Connell's artwork first-hand and explore the new library facilities, which include state-of-the-art resources, comfortable reading areas, and dedicated spaces for community events.

For more information contact Pauline O Connell, (083) 4441692, email: paulinefire@ gmail.com or see www. kilkennylibrary.ie for more details.

Contact the Mayfair Library at (056) 7794174 for details.

Battle of the Bands 2024 The Final

THIS coming Sunday sees the final of the Battle Of The Bands where four local acts will take to the stage at Hackett’s Bar, Parliament Street, in a bid to claim the top prize of recording time at Crossroads Recording Studios. It looks to be an intense competition with four well accomplished live acts ready to impress the judges. The finalists are Oracle Villa, The Donnys, Infrared and Harveys.  They will be judged using a points system that has been used in the contest for over a decade in the past. Points will be awarded for ‘musical ability’, ‘stage presence’, ‘crowd reaction’, ‘originality’, and ‘overall performance’.

For the first time, the audience will also get a vote as each person entering the event will be given a ballot that they can submit on the day.

“Its really looking like its going to be a tight contest. All of the bands that have entered have displayed some incredible talent and its really promising for the future of live music in Kilkenny. It was very difficult for judges to pick the four finalists and it will be even tougher again to pick a winner,” said organiser Andrew McGuinness.

“It has been a surreal

experience, stepping back into organising these gigs for young musicians after a 15 year gap, but it has been exciting to see that the desire for live music among young people is still there. We can definitely build on this and organise some great gigs going forward,” he said.

Local sponsors for the event include Crossroads Recording Studios, Broderick’s Music Warehouse and Essaness Music, with Tommy Hackett providing the venue.

AOBrienPhotography has sponsored all of the photography for the contest too so each of the bands will

have professional photos just like we did back in the day with the late great Ross Costigan.

“I’m very grateful to all of the sponsors because really they are the backbone of our local music scene who have supported these events for decades. I would not have

been able to put this together if it wasn’t for them. It was also great to have Jed Parle on sound as he was part of the original Battle of the Bands that I would have performed in when I was a teenager. That was where I got the inspiration to do this,” said Andrew.

judges too have been fantastic. Mickey ‘Boo’ Keogh performed in many local bands in the old days when these gigs were at their peak and now he is a professional drummer, a great singer and a multiinstrumentalist in many bands. I always value his opinion musically so its great to have him on board.

“Also with Ben Keating, he was at every gig back in the days, set up his band Chemical Addiction and they are still performing and doing well. He was a great help to me all those years ago and he has a great insight into music and what bands should be doing to improve themselves. We will also have a special guest judge on the day to change things up a bit and that will be announced closer to Sunday,” said Andrew. Doors will open on Sunday at 2pm. Entry is limited as this is likely to be a sell out so it will be based on first come first served. Entry is €10 and cash only will be accepted on the door for now but plans are in place to introduce a ticketed system in the future.

The Donnys

Infrared

Oracle Villa Harveys

Judges – Andrew McGuinness, Mickey ‘Boo’ Keogh and Ben Keating

How to stay safe online this Christmas

Written by Michael Doyle

Christmas Shopping can be a busy time, a time where, in the midst of all the Christmas chaos, we can become vulnerable to sophisticated scams, false sales or fake requests. The damages can be lethal and can set you back on your finances during your Christmas shopping and for

the months ahead. So, here’s how you can keep yourself and others safe from scams and any false ads or sales.

Phishing:

Phishing is the attempt to steal personal information, by way of elaborate but fraudulent emails, phone calls, or messages that pretend to be legitimate. They ultimately

want you to co-operate with their message, to click on an attachment or a link to a fraudulent website, from which criminals can steal a person’s money, identity, and passwords. However, despite their best attempts to appear legitimate, there are certain mistakes to their cunning scams, such as use of wording like “Dear Sir/Madam” or

“valued customer” instead of your name, or grammar and spelling mistakes in the body of text.

Package Delivery Scams: Package Delivery Scams are a type of scam that starts with a text message or email pretending to come from a delivery company, informing you of a delivery. Their goal

is for you to click on a dodgy link or install a dodgy app, where criminals can steal a person’s money, identity, and passwords. It is best advised to be wary of urgent actions and hidden prompts where fraudsters intend to provoke a response from their target. They attempt this either by offering a deal, telling you there’s something wrong with

a payment or package, or staging a false giveaway.

Safety Tips: Here are some general safety tips to know about and that you can do to ensure your safety online: Use strong and different passwords for each of your online accounts. A strong password consists of a unique combination of letters, numbers and symbols. Avoid using public wi-fi spots, as those networks are unsecure, and hackers can steal your personal information.

Don’t click on any suspicious links or attachments within emails. A secure and encrypted connection should have a “https” in the address bar and a padlock icon. Reliable organizations will never ask for your personal details via SMS or email. If you think you’ve received a suspicious message, you can contact the company directly, separately from the message you received, to check if it is genuine. Also, you can try reading it out to someone you trust to confirm if it’s a scam.

Unfortunately, scams are ever-present and can be difficult to spot, especially during Christmas time. However, taking these steps can help you and others to stay safe when shopping online and not fall victim to sophisticated scams, false sales or fake requests.

Plenty to look forward to this festive season with Yulefest

programme announcement

Celebrate Christmas in Kilkenny with Yulefest! With a weekly Christmas Market, live music on the Yulefest Live Music Stage, family entertainment and lots of special events throughout December. Yulefest begins with Santa’s arrival to the city on November 30th, launching the Yulefest Christmas Market, which runs each weekend until December 22nd.

Decorated wooden huts, and Santa hat marquees will be serving festive treats and selling local crafts. With live music and family entertainment each weekend the Yulefest Christmas Market is the perfect place to meet and meander and a great place to pick up your Christmas gifts. New for 2024 the market will stay open until 8pm on Saturdays. Giving you added time to soak up the

additions to this year’s festival include: Family Art & Craft Workshops, Yulefest Christmas Trail and a Fiery Festive Finale on December 21st . Plus more events still to be announced!

First round of event tickets on sale from Wednesday 6th November.

Celebrate Christmas with creativity, tradition, and sustainability at the Yulefest Art & Craft Workshops. Join for a heartwarming experience where you and your family can make beautiful Christmas decorations and gifts using local, traditional, and organic materials. Learn to craft stunning holiday pieces that add a personal, handmade touch to your festivities. Using special techniques and festive designs create treasures to cherish.

Designed for adults to partake

alongside children these workshops will take place each weekend beginning November 30th. Book your place through yulefestkilkenny.ie

Enjoy classic Christmas movie 'How The Grinch stole Christmas' on the outdoor big screen on Thursday 12th December in Kilkenny City. Jim Carrey spectacularly brings The Grinch to life in this liveaction comedy based off the Dr Seuss book. Yulefest Movie Night is a family friendly outdoor event. Bring your chairs, cushions, blankets and treats and enjoy a magical night of cinema in the city. Tickets are €3+bf for individuals and €10+bf for families of 4.

Celebrate Christmas in Kilkenny with Yulefest! Check out www.yulefestkilkenny.ie to find out more!

festive atmosphere and enjoy special live performances on the Yulefest Live Music Stage from 6pm.

Yulefest Kilkenny 2024 has a packed programme of events! Returning festival favourites include the Medieval Mile Run (29th November), Yulefest Movie Night (12th December), Santa Truck (8th December), Christmas Tree Festival and the Santa Run! While new

Photo: Dylan Vaughan

Written by Michael Doyle

The time for Christmas Shopping is upon us, and beyond the researching and exchanging of gifts and presents, it’s worth taking the time to plan out the Christmas dinner.

The Christmas dinner is the time for family and friends to rejoice with one another at the dinner table. What you’ll need can depend on people’s dietary requirements if any, and how much of what you’ll need depends on the size of your family, or whether you plan to invite additional friends, neighbours, or loved ones to the table.

So, here’s a list of what you’ll need and how you can provide you and your family the chance of having a wonderful feast of festive food and drink this Christmas.

The Christmas Dinner:

The traditional Christmas dinner consists of turkey, stuffing, potatoes, roast potatoes, Brussel sprouts, and carrots, but you could add the option of gravy, cranberry sauce, or ham to the dish as well. When deciding on the size of your turkey, or deciding on the quantity of vegetables, consider the number of people at your table.

Drinks:

There’s plenty of drinks to choose from for the Christmas dinner table. In general, you could serve milk, a fizzy drink, or juice, whereas for

A guide to Christmas dinner shopping

Catering for the Needs of Others:

Whether you are catering for a young or old member of the family, ensure to serve them a tailor-made dish and that the portion sizes are adequate for them. If catering for any dietary requirements, ask them what they would like and research meals that fit with your person’s dietary requirements. When preparing their meal, it is important to prepare it separately from the others, using different utensils and equipment to avoid cross-contamination. Ensure to double-check your ingredients and thoroughly cleanse your utensils and equipment.

Leftovers:

After the Christmas dinner, there’s bound to be some remaining food and drink. Whatever you do, don’t let it all go to waste. You could use the leftovers to form another dinner, or a lunch. Using leftovers can reduce food waste, costs, and time spent preparing meals. Just be sure to know what needs to be used first and ensure you store and re-use your leftovers as appropriate, so they are fit for use. There can be many strands to organising a Christmas dinner, but with careful planning, preparation, and performance, you and your family can enjoy a wonderful Christmas dinner together.

the adults in particular, you could serve wine or a nonalcoholic drink. When choosing what drinks to buy, know what brand your friends or

loved ones prefer.

Desserts: You can sweeten the sweet tooths in your home this

Christmas with a variety of festive desserts. The options of a Christmas cake, mince pies, sticky toffee pudding, or Christmas pudding can

provide the family with a wonderful Christmas dessert, whereas a chocolate biscuit cake or ice cream can provide an alternative for fussy eaters.

Le Pilly

Members of the 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse) Association had representation in Herlies, France to mark the 110th Anniversary of the Battle of Le Pilly where the 2nd Bn. Royal Irish Regiment suffered the devastating loss of 180 men, with almost 400 men taken POW between 19th - 20th October 1914. The group were met at the Royal Irish Regiment Memorial in Herlies by Yvon

Papeghin with the wonderful support of Cath Cat, Dominique Bascour and a large number of people from the community of Herlies to whom the Battle of Le Pilly holds a special resonance with.

It was especially lovely to see the children attend holding the regimental colours of the 2nd Battalion, as well as a special coincidental meeting with the great-granddaughter of Pte. William Foat, who had

travelled from Liverpool to Herlies following some family research to see the place where William was killed. A small ceremony that was held involved a brief description by Larry Scallan of some of the details from research carried out on soldiers involved in Le Pilly. Association Chairperson Kay Neagle gave a short address quoting "Our first visit to Herlies was in 2018 for the unveiling of this fine memorial, which is dedicated not only to the Royal Irish Regiment but to all who died in war. Since then we have been back on several occasions to walk this sacred ground. We now consider the people of Herlies to be our dearest friends. My heartfelt thanks must of course go to Yvon, Catherine, Dominique

and everyone involved in the local history group, who continue to remember the men of the Royal Irish Regiment who fell in battle here in October 1914, these men lie a long way from home but never far from our thoughts. My dearest wish

is that one day in the future the missing will be found and given the burial they do richly deserve. Until that day, we will keep their memory alive. There is now a field in France that will be forever Ireland.

Thank you.”

Wreaths were laid on behalf of the Association, the Association of Disbanded Irish Regiments, local representatives from Herlies, representative of the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee and by representatives representing the descendants of soldiers who fought in Le Pilly. A lovely afternoon was then had with some refreshments, conversations and forging of more friendships and connections before a return to a section of the battlefield where they were invited by the owners of the former Station House to look at some of the visible bullet damage to the house from the exchange of gunfire in October 1914. Earlier in the morning, the group travelled to some of the local cemeteries where the graves of a number of Royal Irish Regiment soldiers lie, as well as Le Touret Memorial where the names of over 160 soldiers are recorded, who have no known grave.

Life saving defibrillator project

To further promote the Eastern Environs Defibrillator project, a number of the groups involved, including The Civil Defence, Order of Malta, St John’s Parish Council, Community Gardaí and the EE Defib group met with Pat Shortall, CRKC, to highlight the locations of the defibrillators and to ensure this life saving equipment was upgraded,

easily accessible, and ready for use.

Locations:

• Day Care Centre, St John’s Church

• Freshco Shop & Deli, Dublin Road

• John McGuinness Constituency Office, O’ Loughlin Road

• The Orchard House Bar & Restaurant, New Orchard

• James Stephens Army

Barracks, Castlecomer Road Roundabout entrance

On behalf of the EE Defibrillator group, Mick Dooley thanked the people of St John’s Parish for their unwavering support for this important life-saving initiative. Mick had special words of commendation for those that allowed the defibrillators to be placed on their premises and who have taken responsibility

for their supervision and upkeep. Finally, Mick expressed extreme pride in the project and said he was particularly pleased that one of the defibrillators had been used to help save the life of a person on John Street. The Kilkenny Observer is happy to highlight this great initiative. Photos show members of the committee and business people who support the project.

Larry Scallan (Grandnephew Pte. John Redmond), Anthony Cosgrave, Brenda Shaw Beausang (Grandniece Pte. John Shaw), John Joe Cullen (Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee), Liam Barry (Grandson Sgt. William Barry), Jean Francois Husson, Kay Neagle (Chairperson 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse) Association) & Mary Anne Maher (Great Grandniece Pte. John Brennan & Secretary 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse) Association) (Photo Dominique Bascour)

Kay Neagle, Chairperson 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse) Association, with some of the local children from Herlies with the standard of the Royal Irish Regiment gifted to the community of Herlies in October 2018

L/R: Brenda Shaw Beausang (Grandniece Pte. John Shaw), Larry Scallan (Grandnephew Pte. John Redmond), Liam Barry (Grandson Sgt. William Barry), Kay Neagle (Chairperson 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse)Association), MaryAnne Maher (Great Grandniece Pte. John Brennan & Secretary 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment (& South Irish Horse) Association), John Joe Cullen (Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee) & Jean Francois Husson. (Photo Dominique Bascour)

Food & Drink

Come Dine WithMe

Squidgy chocolate pear pudding

Prep: 20 mins

Cook: 35 mins

Serves: 8

This hot, gooey chocolate pud, with dark chocolate and canned pears, can be made ahead and frozen – a perfect no-fuss dinner party dessert.

Ingredients

• 200g butter, plus extra for greasing

• 300g golden caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 75g plain flour

• 50g cocoa powder

• 410g pears

• 100g plain dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)

• 25g flaked almonds (optional)

• cream or ice cream, to serve

STEP 1

Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas

5. Lightly grease a roughly 20 x 30cm shallow ovenproof dish. Put the butter in a large saucepan and place over a low heat until just melted. Remove the butter from the heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.

STEP 2

Whisk the eggs together in a large bowl. Gradually add the eggs to the butter and sugar, beating well with

a wooden spoon in between each addition. Sift the flour and cocoa powder on top of the egg mixture, then beat hard with a wooden spoon until thoroughly combined.

STEP 3

Pour into the prepared tin or

Spicy root and lentil casserole

Prep: 10 mins

Cook: 35 mins

Serves: 4

The potatoes in this recipe take on the spicy flavours beautifully - our idea of the perfect veggie supper.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp sunflower or vegetable oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 garlic clove, crushed

• 700g potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 4 carrot, thickly sliced

• 2 parsnip, thickly sliced

• 2 tbsp curry paste or powder

• 1 litre/1¾ pints vegetable stock

• 100g red lentils

• a small bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped

• low-fat yogurt and naan bread, to serve

Method

STEP 1

Heat the oil in a large pan and cook the onion and garlic over a medium heat for 3-4 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally. Tip in the potatoes, carrots and parsnips, turn up the heat and cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables are golden.

STEP 2

Stir in the curry paste or powder, pour in the stock and then bring to the boil. Reduce the heat, add the lentils, cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.

STEP 3

Stir in most of the coriander, season and heat for a minute or so.Top with yogurt and the rest of the coriander. Serve with naan bread.

dish and nestle the pears into the chocolate batter. Put the chocolate on a board and cut into chunky pieces roughly 1.5cm with a large knife. Scatter the chocolate pieces over the batter and sprinkle with almonds, if you like. Can be frozen at this stage.

STEP 4

Bake in the centre of the oven for 30 mins or until the mixture is crusty on the surface and lightly cooked inside. Do not allow to overcook, as the cake will become spongy rather than gooey in the centre. Serve warm with cream or ice cream

TO FREEZE

Wrap the cooled, unbaked pudding tightly in foil, label and freeze for up to 1 month.

To serve, unwrap the pudding and bake from frozen as above in step 4 for 50 mins.

Wednesday, Season 2, is coming to Netflix soon

Netflix has officially confirmed the release plan for Wednesday Season 2, calling it one of the streamer’s “biggest shows” of 2025. Tim Burton’s modernday spin on the beloved Addams Family franchise has proven to be a major hit for the longtime director. Season 1 of the series, which was released in 2022, still holds the record for the most hours viewed in a week for an Englishlanguage Netflix series.

So Season 2 of the spooky streaming comedy has been hotly anticipated, to say the least. The last fans heard about the series, Wednesday Season 2 production was ongoing as of early October, putting the Jenna Ortega-lead show firmly on the path to release.

This news comes by way of Netflix’s Q3 2024 earnings report, where the streamer declared the Tim Burton-directed series one of its “biggest shows” coming next year:

“So looking into 2025, you’ve got new seasons of our biggest shows: Wednesday, Squid Games, Stranger Things, on top of new shows from Shonda Rhimes and Ryan Murphy, a new Knives Out film from Rian Johnson, Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein, even the return of Happy Gilmore. So we could not be more excited about where we sit right now and where we’re heading.”

After production on the series had been ongoing through much of the summer and into this fall, this marks the first official con-

firmation from the streaming giant of where fans can expect Wednesday Season 2 to land.

Netflix has been fairly public in the production of Season 2, releasing several updates and Wednesdaythemed video vignettes from the set of the hit series, showing that filming was going along swimmingly.

Other morsels from production have made their way out in the past few months as well, like Jenna Ortega teasing more of her character’s iconic cello playing in the second season, but nothing regarding the series’ potential release date had been made public.

When Will Wednesday Season 2 Be Released?

Thankfully, more infor-

mation has made its way out about the series that could potentially point to a more specific release date for the hit Netflix series.

In early October, it was revealed Wednesday that Season 2 was heading into production on its last two episodes. This likely means filming on the show is getting close to rounding out, meaning it could wrap sometime in either this month or December.

For Season 1, there was a gap of about six months between finishing filming and its eventual release.

If Season 2 were to follow a similar post-production pipeline, then a release date sometime next summer could make the most sense, likely debuting somewhere between June and August 2025.

New, coming to Apple TV+ in November

Bad Sisters (Season 2)

When: November 13

Bad Sisters returns to follow the lives of the Garvey sisters played by Sharon Horgan as Eva, Anne-Marie Duff as Grace, Eva Birthistle as Ursula, Sarah Greene as Bibi and Eve Hewson as Becka. Two years after the “accidental death” of Grace’s abusive husband, the close-knit Garvey sisters may have moved on, but when past truths resurface, the ladies are thrust back into the spotlight, suspicions are at an all-time high, lies are told, secrets revealed and the sisters are

forced to work out who they can trust.

Silo (Season 2)

When: November 15

Silo is the story of the last ten thousand people on Earth, their mile-deep home protecting them from the toxic and deadly world outside. However, no one knows when or why the silo was built and any who try to find out face fatal consequences. Rebecca Ferguson stars as Juliette, an engineer, who seeks answers about a loved one’s murder and tumbles onto a mystery that goes far

deeper than she could have ever imagined, leading her to discover that if the lies don’t kill you, the truth will.

Blitz

When: November 22

Steve McQueen’s Blitz follows the epic journey of George (Elliott Heffernan), a nine-year-old boy in World War II London whose mother Rita (Saoirse Ronan) sends him to safety in the English countryside. George, defiant and determined to return home to his mom and his grandfather Gerald (Paul Weller) in East London, em-

1. The Diplomat

The West Wing meets Scandal in this deliciously soapy, thrill-filled political drama. In the Season 1 finale, newly appointed US Ambassador Kate Wyler (Keri Russell) learned of a deadly explosion in London that involved her soon-to-be ex- husband Hal (Rufus Sewell) — and originated from inside the British Government, not a foreign terrorist organisation. It’s not much of a spoiler to say Hal turns up alive and well. He also proves to be Kate’s only real ally in uncovering the truth. Their fraught marriage is not her only challenge, as she also has a complex dynamic with British Foreign Secretary Austin Dennison. On Netflix.

2. Only Murders In The Building Season 4 finale

Now, we finally know whodunnit! It sure looks like the culprit is Marshall (Jin Ha), the screenwriter who has been revealed to be Sazz’s stunt protege. After many red herrings and detours to Hollywood, podcasting/ sleuthing trio Charles Haden Savage (Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short) and Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez) finally look like they’ve caught the killer. But can they catch the killer in time for Oliver and girlfriend Loretta (Meryl Streep) to say “I do” at their wedding?. On Disney+.

3. Agatha All Along

We’ve gone down, down, down the road, down the Witches’ Road to the very end. What will be there for Agatha Harkness (Kathryn Hahn) and Teen (Joe Locke), revealed to be Billy Maximoff inhabiting the body of a dead kid? Agatha wants her powers back and Billy’s looking for his twin, Tommy, but to get what they want, they’ll have to face the final boss: Death aka Rio (Aubrey Plaza). Though Jen (Sasheer Zamata) is still alive, the Road has claimed the rest of the coven and she could be the next to go. On Disney+

barks on an adventure, only to find himself in immense peril, while a distraught Rita searches for her missing son.

Bread & Roses

When: November 22

Bread & Roses offers a powerful window into the seismic impact that the fall of Kabul to the Taliban in 2021 had on women’s rights and livelihoods. The film follows three women in real time as they fight to recover their autonomy. Sahra Mani captures the spirit and resilience of Afghan women through a raw depiction of their harrowing plight.

4. Wizards Beyond Waverly Place

This sequel series follows up on the super successful Disney Channel sitcom that ran from 2007 to 2012 and launched Selena Gomez as a star. Gomez will make a cameo, but the lead is David Henrie reprising his role as Justin Russo. Now an adult, Justin has chosen to lead a normal, mortal life with his family: wife Giada (Mimi Gianopulos) and sons Roman (Alkaio Thiele) and Milo (Max Matenko). But when a young wizard named Billie (Janice LeAnn Brown) arrives seeking his help, Justin must dust off his magical skills to mentor her. On Disney+.

5. Love Is Blind

Love was truly blind in two cases in Season 7 of Netflix’s hit dating show: Taylor and Garrett, and Ashley and Tyler. Only those two couples said “I do” (or even made it to the altar at all). We’re expecting them to be at the reunion, along with the other four engaged pairs featured throughout the season: Alex and Tim, Hannah and Nick, Marissa and Ramses, and Monica and Stephen. A teaser trailer also revealed that engaged-then-split couple Brittany and Leo will also make an appearance. Pour the tea, Netflix!

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

CLUB LOTTO

Lotto results for 29th October. Numbers drawn - 3, 10, 23. Congratulations to Tom Foley, winner of the €2,950 Jackpot. MEMORIAL MATCH

A very large attendance turned up in Clara on Saturday afternoon for a game organised in memory of the great James “Shiner” Nolan of Dunbell. A Clara selection from around 2014, bolstered by relations and close friends of James, took on a selection loosely based on the Galway New York team of the same year. With the second anniversary of James’s passing fast approaching it was deemed that now was an appropriate time to remember him fondly. James lined out with Galway New York in the summer of 2014 and helped them take the New York championship for the first time in 25 years. In doing so James obviously left as great an impression on his new teammates there as he had done on his native soil, as it was the New Yorkers that drove on this novel idea. Three of the mentors travelled home specially from New York for the occasion and one of them, Tom Bowes of Cappataggle, Galway sponsored both sets of jerseys for the game. The players came from near and far to participate and served up a very enjoyable display of hurling, with household names like Brendan Bugler, Aidan Harte, Conor Cooney and Tadhg Haran lining out with the team from the Big Apple, as well as Clara men Jack Langton, Robert Shortall and Keith Hogan. The Clara team rolled back the years with John and Brian Phelan, Neal and David Prendergast and guests like Jonjo Farrell and Ger Malone joining still active players like Lester, Liam and Tom Ryan, Sean and Conor O Shea and Killian Phelan. It was the Clara side that came out on top on a 9-14 to 5-15 scoreline. Fittingly the quartet of Kevin Nolan (after moving outfield), Ruairi Breen, Jake Byrne and Peter Nolan did most of the damage, notching 6-4 between them. The first three are cousins of James while his brother Peter top scored with 2-2 to his name. The talent on show was a fitting tribute to the memory of James, who regaled us so often with his mesmerising skills. Both teams adjourned afterwards to Clara hall for refreshments, where many happy stories and memories of James were exchanged. Well done to everyone that organised this event.

Teams - CLARA - Kevin Nolan 1-1, Dermot Nolan, John Phelan, Sean O Shea. Neal Prendergast, Pa Doheny 0-1, Richie Nolan. Liam Ryan 1-2, Ger Malone 0-2. Lester Ryan 0-1, TJ Fitzgerald, Killian Phelan. Ruairi Breen 2-0, Peter Nolan 2-2, Jake Byrne 1-1. Subs used Tom Ryan, Mick Barcoe, Brian Phelan 0-1, David Prendergast, Conor (Curly) Phelan, Mick McDonald, James Dowling, Conor O Shea, Declan Rafter 0-1, Ben Nolan 0-1, Jonjo Farrell 1-0, Mickey Jones 1-1, Tom Langton, Matt Kenny 0-1. NEW YORK - Eoin Ryan, Jack Nolan, Aidan Harte 0-1, Paul Maher. Michael Kenny, Tommy Doyle, Thomas Foley 0-1. Jack Langton, Brendan Bugler. Keith Hogan 0-3, Tadhg Haran 1-2, Conor Cooney 1-4. Niall Kenny 0-2, Ciarán Hoyne, Davy Healy 0-1. Subs used Patrick O Neill, Ollie Walsh, Brian Byrne, Noel Darcy 0-1, Joe Maher 1-0, Paddy Nolan, Stephen Quinlan, Robert Shortall 1-0, Pádraic Brennan 1-0, Daire Connery.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

WORLD HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS

It was a busy week in O’Loughlin Gaels as the club played host to the oneills.com World 4-Wall Handball Championships, along with the National Handball Centre in Croke Park and various Leinster venues. The club’s two handball

courts including the state of the art court with a full glass back wall and comfortable seating for spectators received much praise from players and spectators alike. Great credit is due to the club’s handball chairman John Morrissey under whose direction a great deal of work had gone into preparing the handball facilities for the championships. Everything ran very smoothly with John on hand throughout the week welcoming visitors and directing competitions, making sure everyone left with a very positive impression of the club.

WORLD CHAMPIONS

Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels’ Joe Daly and Stephen Hally on winning the Men’s 45+ B Doubles at the oneills. com World 4-Wall Handball Championships. Stephen and Joe defeated David Redmond and James Stanners 15-8 and 15-6 in the final at Cullohill. Well done also to O’Loughlin Gael’s Noah Manogue who captured the under 19 doubles partnered with Kyle Jordan from Kilfane in Croke Park. The lads played flawless handball all weekend beating a very good pair from Mexico in the final.

UNDER 16’S WIN SHIELD

Well done to O’Loughlin Gaels’ Under 16’s, winners of the Duggan Steel Roinn A Hurling Championship Shield Final on Sunday morning last when they defeated Young Irelands 2-28 to 3-9. The game was played in MW Hire Training Centre. It finished the year on a positive note for this group of players. Commiserations to the Club’s Under 21’s who put in a good performance but lost out to a very strong Dicksboro side in their championship game in St. John’s Park on Saturday morning last. Also to the Under 14 C team which lost out to Tullogher Rosbercon in the Roinn C Hurlimg Championship Shield final last weekend in Thomastown.

WALKING NIGHTS

As part of an initiative to encourage O’Loughlin Gaels’ club members to meet new friends, renew old acquaintances and socialise whilst exercising during the off season the club is organising two ‘Walking Nights’ per week with Tuesdays and Thursdays suggested initially. The walk will commence from the club car park at 7.30pm and finish at 8.30pm approx. All club members (plus friends) would be most welcome to come along and walk at your own pace along the Ring Road or routes through town as a group. If you are interested in coming along we will start next Tuesday night CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels’ club lotto dated October 29th. The Numbers Drawn were 10, 22, 25, 28 and Bonus 26. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors Draw winners were,1.Caoimhe Murphy c/o E Maher. 2. Emily Parsons c/o E Kinchella. 3. Willie Cody c/o Ml Nolan. 4. Pat Cody c/o M Cody. 5. Eileen Hoganc/o JJ Cullen. 6. Cailan Greene c/o P Greene. 7. Kieran Maher c/o E Maher. 8. Grainne Lambert c/o Online. 9. Derek McKenna c/o Online. 10. John Purcell c/o Online. Thank you to all players for your continued support.

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 NOTES

CHAMPS

St Lachtains hurlers became Junior Chamapions on Saturday afternoon last when they defeated Windgap in the final at Nowlan Park. After been down at Junior level for the past couple of years and having been beaten in last year’s final the team were adamant to make amends and return to the Intermediate ranks. They started off well but Windgap got more into the game and got a goal and a point in quick succession which put them ahead. However the Freshford boys rallied back and they were level at the break after Windgap had a number of wides. Freshford came out fired up in the second half and put in a great performance and got two goals in matter of couple of minutes from Paddy Killeen and Catha O’Leary which put them on the path to winning and they never looked back. There was some great defending from the local side which played a vital part in the victory and they finished up winners on a score line of 2-15 to 1-12. Great credit goes to the players and panel for their dedication and hard work and to the management and back room team. Caoimhain Bergin accepted the cup on behalf of the team and paid tribute to the lads and management for their dedication and dedicated the win to one of the clubs most ardent supporters Paddy Butler who passed away that morn-

ing. The team were paraded on a trailer around the village with supporters out in force to welcome them and the cup back home.

PADDY BUTLER RIP

The people of Freshford were saddened to learn on Saturday morning last of the death of one of its most popular characters Paddy (Bowie) Butler late of Clashcrow, Freshford. Although he had been unwell for some months nevertheless his passing caused widespread sorrow and sadness. He was predeceased by his twin sister Mary and sister Bridget. In his 70s he was a popular character in the village and was a dedicated follower of GAA both at club and county level. It was ironic that he died on the morning of the County final and a minutes silence was observed in his honour. He followed St.Lachtains teams over decades and did Trojan fund raising for the club over the years. He gave his time cutting the grass in the hurling field for many years also and was so proud of his local team. He would have been so proud to see them

bring the cup back on Saturday evening. He loved the craic and the matches and socialising with his friends. He will be sadly missed around the village.

Members of the winning team and management and club members walked along the route carrying the cup and the flag was placed on the coffin as a mark of respect to him. His funeral mass took place on Monday morning last followed by burial in St.Lachtains cemetery. He is mourned by his brother Mort, niece Mary and her husband James, his relatives, neighbours and many friends to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

COURSING

Freshford and District Coursing Club held their 103rd meeting at Clone. With a successful meeting, fine weather, good food and an entertaining two days of coursing, it gave the spectators value for money.

The Kennedy Memorial Cup for the local stake was contested by Tullaroan men, Robbie Flynn with his dog Don Rico, up against Tommy Norton’s dog Fire and Grace. Don Rico taking the Cup back to Tullaroan again this year. The Mick and Mary Bergin Memorial Cup was a bye in the final for Tipperary man Conor O ‘ Donnell with his dog Slanestown Tyson. Next up, the Din and Martin Lennon Memorial Cup contested by local girl Eimear Murphy with her bitch Kozy Lady and Tullaroan man Tommy Norton with his bitch Anybodys Dream, Kozy Lady taking the title and giving the Murphy family of Belville along with trainer John Joe Kelly

Caoimhain Bergin Receiving the cup

O’Loughlin Gaels, winners of the Duggan Steel Under 16 Roinn A Hurling Championship Shield Final.

St Lachtains

Group of supports at the coursing event.

Community & GAA Notes

sible Solution, a quick start by Possible Solution was 1st to raise the white flag and take the Cup down Leeside! Great thanks to all the Working Members, Catering Committee, Sponsors, coursing and parking field owners and support over the 2 days. A Cabaret was held in Kavanaghs Bar on the final night, and thanks to all who supported the raffle.

FRESHFORD CONNECTION

When Gaultiers Camogie girls won the Waterford senior final recently defeating reigning champions De La Salle there was a big Freshford connection. Local girl Maria Brennan played full back and was joint captain of the winning side. Maria is daughter of Tony and Eileen Brennan Bohergloss Freshford and sister of St.Lachtains star goalkeeper Darrern. They beat Newcastle West in the Club championship on Sunday last and now go on to meet the Clare Champions.

DEATH

Fresford lost another of its more senior citizens last week with the passing of Mrs. Maureen; Bergin late of Blackwood, Freshford. The deceased who was in her 92nd year was predeceased by her husband Jerry, brother, sister and son in law. She was a quiet and good living lady and was widely known and respected in the area. Her funeral mass took place in Clontubrid Church followed by burial in Rathbeagh Cemetery. She is mourned by her sons, Patrick, Jimmy, Michael and Diarmuid, daughters Margaret and Carmel, grandchildren, son in law, daughters in law, nephews nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

BRIDGE

Bridge classes will commence in Tulla Hall on Monday 4th November from 7.30pm to 9.30pm for 10 weeks. Anyone interested in attending the classes should contact Mary on 087 2369535

COFFEE MORNING

Freshford Active Retirement Group are holding a coffee morning and raffle on this Friday 8th November in the Community Hall Freshford from 1030am to 12.30pm. All proceeds on the day go to the Alzheimer’s society Kilkenny. All are welcome and your support would be greatly appreciated.

SOCCER

Freshford town had no games last weekend. The previous week the Junior side were defeated by Highview Athletic in their home league game coming out the wrong side of a 4-3 score line.

In the schoolboys/girls section the U12 girls were beaten 3-2 by Newpark with the Freshford goals coming from Kera Gibbons and Aubrey Walsh.The U16 boys went down 4-2 to Freebooters also on Saturday with Hugo Carroll and David Ryan scoring for Freshford side.

The soccer academy for young boys 5/6 upwards continues each Saturday at 9.30am and will continue each week. The Club are presently looking for volunteers across all levels and if you can help or give a bit of your time they would be most grateful. You can contact any member of the Committee or just turn up at the training sessions.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre. Is open Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30pm. .

SPLIT THE POT

Last week’s winner of split the pot was Kathleen Doyle Wood view winning herself €375. Octobers split the pot proceeds was in aid of Freshford Playground and thanks goes to all those who supported the cause which is a great addition to the village. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs.

BINGO

The weekly bingo sessions continue each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm with some good prize money and a raffle each week. All proceeds go to the Irish Wheelchair association. The Committee would like to thank all the people who have turned up each week and ask you to please support this weekly fundraiser and tell your friends and help spread the word around and promote this worthy cause.

LOOP CAFE

The Loop Community Café held a cake sale with special treats for the kids for Halloween. They are open each day from Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. Platters of sandwiches are available for any occasion and they are looking for new pairs of hands to help out. Chopping veg, washing plates, cleaning counters, making coffee – you name it, we need it! If you can take part any time from Monday to Saturday, even for just for an hour or two, please stop by or call the café at 056 8832650

Winner of the beautiful painting by local artist Michael Cantwell was Billy Barnaville Kilkenny. Thanks to all those who supported the raffle.

KNIT AND KNATTER

Every Wednesday morning in the Loop Cafe there is a knit and knatter session from 10am two 11am. Fee is €6 per person which includes tea/coffee and sweet treat. No experience is necessary and guidance is given. New members are always welcome so why not go along and gain a new skill and more importantly have fun.

TRAD MUSIC

Lisdowney Traditional music group resumed recently and continues each week in the Community Hall Lisdowney and continues each Thursday. Children from six upward are all welcome.

PARISH NEWS

Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. And 11am Maas in St.Lachtains Church on Sundays. 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. Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can also 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

U-21 “C” QUARTER-FINAL

On Friday night, under lights in Ballyragget, the club’s U-21 “C” hurlers gave a battling performance against the odds before going down narrowly at 3-18 to 5-10 to The Fenians in a competitive championship quarter final fixture. Needlessly conceding a goal inside the first minute did not help their cause but they settled into the contest and levelled the game at 1-01 when Zac Scanlon zipped through the Fenians defence in the 7th minute for a goal. Points from Jack Kelly (8mins) and Fionn Cody (10mins) were the only scores to counter a flow of five points from an impressive Fenians attack at the 17th minute. In the 19th minute Billy O’Sullivan was called on to make a double save to keep the Village men in the game at 1-06 to 1-03. Another Zac Scanlon stinger to the net in the 23rd minute was needed to lift the Village spirits as The Fenians continued to dominate and add to their points tally at 1-08 to 2-04 despite stubborn resistance from pressurised defenders Tuan Hyland, Bill Whelan, James Bergin and James O’Shea in particular. A second Fenians goal in the 28th minute was swiftly answered by an Aaron Dorney tap in from another Zac Scanlon drive to leave the scoreboard read 2-12 to 3-04 at the break. In the first 10 minutes of the 2nd half the Johnstown lads continued their point scoring exploits adding 4 points to single scores from Conor McEvoy (9mins) and Allen Larkin (10mins). Refusing to concede, the battling James Stephens players added points from James Bergin (13mins) and Aaron Dorney (18 mins) before The Fenians broke through for a green flag score to increase their hold on the fixture at 3-18 to 3-08 in the 20th minute --- surprisingly their last score of the game. Digging deep over the final 10 minutes and finding a renewed spirit, driven by a reinvigorated Allen Larkin and substitute Dara Power, with forceful displays by Jack Kelly and Zac Scanlon the James Stephens players laid siege to the Fenians defence and soon found their scoring touches. Goalmouth skirmishes resulted in three pointers for Conor McEvoy (22 min) and Fionn Cody (31min) separated by a long-range Zac Scanlon point (27 min) but unfortunately it just fell short of victory at 5-10 to 3-18 giving The Fenians the right of passage to the championship semi-final. Despite the narrow defeat credit must be given to manager Paddy Butler and selectors Fran Cantwell, Richie Manogue and Malcolm Murphy for getting the best out of a young James Stephens lineup which included seven minor players and three subs who fought bravely to the final whistle.

JUVENILE UPDATE: U-12

Coaching mentor, Seamus Power advises that the young James Stephens aspiring stars played their last hurling match of the season in recent days and are now concentrating on improving their Gaelic football skills for the next few months. The coaches acknowledge that they have an enthusiastic group of players, full of characters whose skill levels have improved immeasurably as evidenced by the impressive displays in their Go-Games fixtures and in the floodlight league games played during the season. Already their football coaching is in full swing with recent matches against Freshford and Tullaroan under their belts. Our

thanks to their management team of Michael Fogarty, Conor O’Dwyer, David Cowhig, Declan Doyle, Cian Ryle and Seamus Power for the commitment and time given to their young charges over a long season.

U10 CAMOGIE

Our U10 girls finished up their year with a day out in Dublin recently playing Ballinteer in some friendly matches on their way to Jump Zone in Sandyford. Finishing off with a stop off in McDonalds it’s safe to say stamina is not an issue for these young girls!

It’s great to see such large numbers all year in this group which were well organised and led by Cormac Behan and coaches, Vera Manogue, Niall Tyrell, Adrienne Brannigan, Derrick Brennan, Paul Costello, Alan Power, Pat Kenny, Mickey Eardly, Anthony Reynolds and Brian Sheeran.

RED AND GREEN SHOP

Shop supervisor, Breda Manogue advises that after a short break the club shop will reopen for business on Tuesday night, 5th November from 8 to 9pm. Breda confirms that the shop has a large stock of Star hurls (all sizes), sliothars, bullet balls, grips, football gloves, hats, togs and socks ideal for Christmas stocking fillers. Also available are the new Skoda jerseys, new training tops, black padded jackets, half zips, skinny bottoms and camogie crew necks. Something for everyone so to speak.

PODCASTS

Why not while away a few hours over the winter months listening to the latest recorded podcasts prepared by Liam Kelly-O’Rourke which include interviews with the club’s minor manager Joe Murray and team captain Noah Manogue. Another podcast features a conversation with GAA All-Star nominee Cian Kenny and the late club legend, Mick Crotty.

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 11, 16, 27, 31. There was no winner.The €40 consolation winners were Deirdre Stynes, Richard Walsh, Teresa Dalton, John Joe Cullen and Kate Brown. You can play our Lotto, on Clubforce, any time before 6pm on Tuesday.

GOWRAN

GOWRAN AC

Best of luck to David Carter on his ultra marathon challenge. He is running six ultra marathons across six counties in six days in memory of his late dad David will cross the finish line, after nearly a week of running, on November 9th, the date his late father would have celebrated his 75th birthday. David is also aiming to raise vital funds for three organisations close to his and his dad’s heart; the Dillion Quirke Foundation, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and Young Irelands GAA and Camogie Club in Kilkenny. https://www.idonate.ie/cause/ YoungIrelandsHurlingCamoigeKilkenny

GOWRAN PANTO

Next year’s Panto is Rapunzel. Thanks to everyone who applied to join the cast of the 2025 production.

GOWRAN AC

LEINSTER UNEVENS

Tinahely was the backdrop for the Leinster Uneven Juvenile Cross Country where 20 of athletes competed and the Senior Men’s team in the afternoon. It was another fantastic day for Orla O’Keeffe finishing in 10th bronze (up in age U13) following on from her success at the Even Ages in Dunboyne 2 weeks ago. Henry Kelly was another medalist earning silver on the U12 Boys County team. Both athletes will head to the All-Ireland Unevens in Waterford in December. Congratulations to every athlete who ran representing the club with pride and many of those running up in age too, results as follows:

Girls U11 Laoise Moseley 87th, Emma Hayden 118th. Boys U11 (*2nd County Team) Henry Kelly 62nd silver*. Darragh Glynn 67th. George Doran 114th. Girls U13 (6th County Team,5th Club team). Orla O’Keeffe 10th bronze. Abigail Hunt 24th. Mia Kennedy 53rd. Sarah Mulrooney 59th. Roisin Moseley 91st. Boys U13 (*6th County Team). Ned Og Kelly 32nd*. Cian Larkin 76th. Girls U15 (*County Team 5th, Club team 5th). Emily O’Keeffe 30th*. Heidi Ryan 42nd. Lucy Cunningham 47th. Anna Kelsey 70th. Boys U15. Gearóid Farrell 25th David Carroll 42nd Michael O’Keeffe (injured). Boys U17 (County Team 5th). James Kelsey 32nd. Senior Men (Club team 7th). John Coady 22nd. Johan Muller 39th. Niall Sheehan 40th. Sean Morrisey 46th

GOWRAN PARK

Tickets on sale now for the season Finale 2024 at gowranpark.ie on Saturday, November 9th. Live music during and after racing. Call - +353 (56) 772 6699

BENNETTSBRIDGE

IMPORTANT MEETING

The Bennettsbridge Community Development Group has issued an open invitation to all to attend their AGM. The evening will include a public discussion about proposed new projects in the community.

The meeting will be held on Monday November 11th 2024 at 8pm in Bennettsbridge Community Hall.

THYME RESTAURANT

The Thyme Restaurant in Bennettsbridge is making a welcome return to its “Dine - In” option and will be open every Friday Saturday and Sunday from 5pm. With last orders at 8.30pm. There will be an extensive menu available. The take-away operating so successfully over the past number of years has proved very popular and is a great facility for the community. Further information from 056 7700805.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to the Lehane family on the death of Patrick (Paddy) Lehane, Castlegarden, Dungarvan, Co. Kilkenny, at St Columba’s Hospital Thomastown on the 31st October 2024.

Paddy was predeceased by his mother Margaret. Sadly missed by his wife Annie, sons Martin, Dermot and Pat, daughter Joanne. Grandchildren Gary Lauren, Amy, Christopher, Patrick, Ryan, Matthew, Freddy, Molly, Mícheál and Cáoimhe, Great-grandchildren Charlie, Louie and Hugh, daughters-in-law Sue and Sandra, son-in-law Declan, sister Rosie, brother-in-law Mattie and his wife Catherine, nieces and nephews, relatives, neighbours and many friends. Family, friends and members of the farming community came in large numbers to the Mercy Side Chapel, Church of the Assumption, Thomastown where Paddy lay in repose. Vigil prayers were recited.

Requiem mass was celebrated on Saturday in St Kieran’s Church, Tullaherin, by Canon Pat Duggan. Fr Duggan welcomed everyone to the celebration of Paddy’s life. Members of his family took part in the Liturgy and Prayers of the Faithful. Offertory gifts representing Paddy’s interests in life were carried by his grandchildren. These included a miniature tractor and trailer, rosary beads, pack of cards and the Water and Wine. Tullaherin Parish Choir sang throughout the mass. Burial took place in St Michael’s and St David’s Cemetery, Dungarvan, Co. Kilkenny.

LOTTO

No winner of Jackpot last week. Numbers, 5, 21, 25, 28. Consolation Prizes, David McGrath, Kilfane, Shangarry Syndicate, BB Syndicate, Judy Farrell, Danesfort, Abbie O’Brien, Marian Place.

CAR PARK RE-SURFACING

The car park across from the graveyard has under-gone resurfacing works and line marking and looks well. Funding for these works was secured under the Community Recognition Fund. Safety improvement works are also being carried out on Main Street which will include the installation of a speed ramp to slow down traffic.

ART GROUP AND CHRISTMAS CARDS

The Christmas Card Project sponsored by the Bennettsbridge Art Group is now underway. Cards are available in the local outlets and feature all your favorite scenes with some new additions. The Art Group is delighted to be involved in this initiative which promotes Bennettsbridge overseas at this special time of the year. Thanks to the local shops who continue to stock the cards and as usual the St Vincent De Paul will share in the proceeds.

Advance notice of our Christmas Art Fest to be held on Sunday, 8th December from 11 am to 5pm. Opportunity to pick up some special presents for loved ones. Craft decorations, textile hangings, Christmas Cards and some hand-knitted mittens (big hit last year).

CHURCH NEWS

Masses during the week, Tuesday evening,7.30pm, Wednesday and Friday morning, 10.30am Saturday(Tullaherin), 8.00pm, Sunday(Bennettsbridge) 10.30am.

NOVEMBER OFFERINGS

The November offerings are due this month. Masses for the deceased will be offered during the month of November. The names of deceased family members can be listed on the leaflet in the envelope.

BLESSING OF GRAVEYARD EXTENSION

Bishop Niall Coll will bless the Bennettsbridge graveyard extension on Sunday, 8th December after 10.30am mass.

GATHERING GROUP

Good attendance at the meeting last week including one new member. Vote of sympathy is extended to Annie Lehane and Rosie Hayes on the death of Paddy Lehane, Annie’s husband and Rosie’s brother respectively.

EAST END UNITED

Ladies Soccer; A great 5-1 win over Lions for our ladies team last weekend in the Fair Green. Brilliant match girls! U11s played a super game v Callan over the weekend. Fantastic team effort from all the girls.

GAA

Up-coming Games; Our under 21 team will play Dicksboro in the Roinn A sem-ifinal on November 16th in Gowran. Our under 14 football team play Kilmoganny in the delayed under 14 B football county final with the time and venue to be decided.

AGM 2024

This year’s AGM will take place on Friday November 29th at 8 pm in the clubhouse. Nomination forms have been e-mailed to members. If you have not received a form and would like one please contact 083 4654035 ASAP.

ALL STAR NOMINATION

It was not to be for David Blanchfield who lost out on an All star last Friday night. It was still a great achievement to be

U10 Camogie

nominated and hopefully David will go one better next year.

LUCKY DIP DRAW

The senior players are running a fundraiser at the moment. Tickets cost 1 cent to 20 euro in a lucky dip, for example a ticket pulled could cost you one cent or up to 20 euro maximum. Prize money is 1000 euro first prize, 500 euro second prize, 300 euro third and 200 euro fourth prize. Please contact Michael Shiel on 0868856810 or David Blanchfield on 0860529386 if you would like to take part.

SPLIT THE POT

The next draw takes place next Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse.Thanks again for the continued support.

CLUB SHOP

A new range has been added to the Bennettsbridge online shop on the O’Neill’s website Simply enter Bennettsbridge into the search box to access the full range of adult and kids club gear. A great gift idea with Christmas on the way.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES

Should you have any desire to submit news items, club events, announcements you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com

LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER

Jackpot now stands at €10.300 euros. The numbers drawn on 25/10/24 were 1, 11, 19, 21, there was no winner. The following Received €30 each Ben and Brendan Savage, Jim Keating, Damien Kielthy, Mick Doyle, Ann Dunne. Tickets are available from any club member.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW

The lucky winners of the draw which was held on 1/11/ 2024. were First Prize €410.00 Christy Cooney, Second Prize € 50 Danny Foley, 3rd Prize €25 Leon Byrne. 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 the month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also artists from the surrounding district. The next Session is on tonight Friday November 8th at 8.00pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Monday to Friday 10 AM, Saturday 7,30 PM, Sunday 11AM.

CLINIC

Cllr Peter “Chap” Cleere will hold his clinic on Monday evenings from 7pm at his office in Main Street Graiguenamanagh.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN

BARROW RANGERS

Barrow Under-21s won against Emeralds last Saturday in Paulstown (1-21 to 1-13).

BRIDGE UNITED

In Division 3, Bridge drew against Fort Rangers B. All three Bridge scores by Murt Cummins. In the FAI Jnr Cup Bridge lost to Evergreen (5-3). Bridge scores: Craig Wall, Eoin Kavanagh and Jack Treacy. The Club now has a sample rail of assorted kids sizes with a selection of club gear located in the refreshments shop at The Club House. The last date for guaranteed Christmas orders is Sunday 10th November. If you would like to try them on for a size guide please call in this Saturday Nov 9th between 10.30am-2pm

The club launched its pitch side signs fundraiser/campaign as part of an ambitious project to transform the Clubs facilities with a full size astro turf pitch. With over 350 members there are 30 underage teams and 2 adult teams we are now faced with the challenges of a growing club every year. If you would like to help the club to achieve this goal we can help you to advertise your business. Please contact Colin 087 6528212 or any committee member.

CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday and in Paulstown on Sunday at 11.30am.

Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown on Friday and on Tuesday and Thursday. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm.

MEN’S SHED (GORESBRIDGE / PAULSTOWN)

A successful information evening took place last week. A group of interested persons is being formed and follow up action will be taken. A trip to the men’s shed in DanesfortCuffsgrange-Kells is planned. Queries and expressions of interest to Tom Healy 087 918 1436.

NATURE’S WAY (BORRIS AND GORESBRIDGE AREAS)

A pre-school and after-school service operates from 8.30am to 6pm daily at Scoil Bhríde in Goresbridge from this week onwards. Information: Ann O’Kelly (085 752 9485) or Michelle Cummins (089 947 3317).

SPLIT THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply go to lottoraiser.ie

DONATIONS

Tar Isteach shop is looking for mugs, dishes, cutlery, pots, pans, water glasses, pictures, vases, winter dresses, knits, if you are doing a clear out, we are also back taking ladies clothes, if you are planning a new wardrobe and want to get

rid of winter clothes. We’ll take handbags, belts, scarves. DICKSBORO

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 31st October 2024. Numbers drawn, 7 19 21 32. The Jackpot was not won. Draw Prizes, €50, Helen Doheny c/o Online €25 each Shane O’Brien c/o Online. €25 each Eimear Murphy c/o Online. €25 each Mag and Dinny c/o Doherty’s Bar Hurlers Co Op Sean Kennedy c/o Online. Promotors prize Davy Dalton ADULT CAMOGIE

Hard luck to our Senior Camogie and Junior Camogie recently in their Championship Games. On Sunday20th October in UPMC Nowlan Park our Seniors met Piltown in the County Final but it wasn’t to be our day. This bunch of girls are a credit to our Club they have given us a lifetime of memories and we thank them and their Management Team for their dedication and commitment. Congratulations to Piltown and we wish them all the best in their Leinster Championship Campaign. Our Junior Camogie team bowed out of the Championship in the Quarter Final against a strong Graiguenamanagh side. The girls have had a great campaign this year and we’ll see them all back stronger next year.

U22 CAMOGIE CHAMPIONSHIP

Our U22 Camogie Team start their Championship campaign Sunday 10th November at 11am in Palmerstown. The girls will play John Lockes in the Championship Quarter Final. U21 HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

Well done to our two Teams who had wins over the weekend to book themselves into the Semi Finals of this Championship Campaign. The A Team beat O’Loughlin’s on Saturday morning on a scoreline of 2-19 to 0-15 while our B Team beat Mullinavat on Sunday afternoon by 1 point in extra time with a long range free from Billy Fitz.

MEMORIAL MASS

A memorial Mass will be held on Friday 8th November at 8pm in Palmerstown to honour and remember our deceased members from 2023 and 2024 along with the relatives and friends of all members who have passed away. We invite all members to join us in prayer and remembrance.

CLUB FOOTBALL

Our Senior Football Team will play Caragh from Kildare in the AIB Leinster Quarter Final at 1.30pm Saturday 9th November in Freshford. Best of luck to all involved. please come out and support the lads.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

TIDY TOWNS GAIN

The Tidy Towns results were announced last Friday with Ballyragget gaining once again this year with a further 6 marks added. In their report the Tidy Towns complimented them on their hard work and in taking on previous years recommendations. Well done to all of those involved in this endeavour for their hard work and commitment.

MENS SHED

Ballyragget Men’s shed continue to meet Tuesdays in the Cannon Malone hall at 10am for their healthy eating programme and on Thursday evenings at 8pm. Work is flying along on their shed with works moving along at an advanced stage. Well done to all involved and new members are always welcome.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

The annual Christmas Craft fair and turning on of the Christmas lights will be held on Friday December 6th this year. The market will begin at 5pm and run until 7pm with the lights been turned on the square at 7.30pm. If you wish to have a craft stall at the market please contact Juanita via WhatsApp on 087 295 5864 tables cost €15.

SYMPATHIES

Sympathies are sent to the family of Kieran Carroll of the Seven Cross Roads and London to his daughters Kirsty and Kate grandchildren Lucy and Heidi, brothers Jimmy, Mike and Padraig. His funeral mass takes place in St Patrick’s Church on Saturday morning November 9th. May he rest in peace.

BINGO

Bingo is held in the CYMS Hall each Wednesday night starting at 8pm.

CHOIR PRACTICE

The Parish choir has resumed practice in the Cannon Malone Hall on Wednesday night at 7.30 all welcome.

CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny have an Outreach Service available for the community of Ballyragget and the surrounding areas every Monday morning. Call in for a chat, support, and registration to The Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny. The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held at Dr Hogan’s Rooms on the square in the morningfrom 10 am to 12 pm. Please do not hesitate to drop in or, for an appointment - contact 087-4833941.

JOHNSTOWN

COMMUNITY HALL

Following on from the screening of the “Pride of Place “ video copies of the video on USB are available to purchase (€ 5) from Mary McCabe on 0878075670.

If you wish to put a note into the time capsule, due to be buried in the Square in December, please leave same into Anna Ryan’s letterbox or Morrissey’s shop and mark same “for the capsule”. Fifty of the Seventy five balcony seats due for refurbishment have now been booked. Final date to book a seat November

East End Ladies Team who won 5 - 1 over Lions in the Fair Green

David Blanchfield, Katie Garry Murphy, Willie Blanchfield, Mary Blanchfield

Emeralds Junior Camogie team who beat John Lockes in the Junior County Final on Sunday. Result

Emeralds 3-03 John Lockes 2-04. Well done ladies

Tom Healy

East End U 11s V Callan

Community & GAA Notes

25th.

The snooker room is now ready to be used, if you are interested in same please contact P.J.Ryan. Several groups are now involved in activities in the Hall , if you can suggest some activity that you might like to see taking place contact Marie Garrett on 0851880202.

CHURCH NEWS

Remembrances masses for November Galmoy November 10th at 10.15 am and Johnstown November 29th at 7.30pm. Rosary in Johnstown Cemetery each Sunday during November at 2.30pm.

November Offering enveloped now due

LIBRARY

In collaboration with Kilkenny Leader Partnership a mental health awareness workshop will be held in the Library on Tuesday Novenber 12th from 10 to 12 noon, in the room upstairs. Contact the Library 0567794182 or Sarah Bowden 0860843446.

Christmas wreath making with Eva Holmes will continue on November 13th.

Chair Yoga will be considered for the library for November and December, if there is enough of interest.

The Chess club continues each Tuesday evening from 6 to 7 pm. For any of these events contact the Library on 0567794182.

MR. PADDY TONE RIP

Paddy, Foulkscourt, Johnstown died peacefully recently at Sacred Heart Nursing Home Crosspatrick. Predeceased by his parents James and Mary, his brothers Sean, Frank, Jimmy, Thomas, William and Michael and sister Kitty, he will be sadly missed by his wife Susie, daughter Mairead, son Daniel, daughter in law Orla, grandchildren Willow and Isabelle, brothers in law, sisters in law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church after which Paddy was laid to rest in Johnstown Cemetery

SPA UNITED AFC.

Weekend results. U15 girls league division 1 Thomastown 0 Spa 2, U15 boys league division 1A Bridge Utd 2 Spa 4, U14 boys league division 2 Spa 2 Freebooters 1. U13 boys league division 1 Spa 1 Thomastown 1. The U11 girls were in action and once again showed great improvement to their development.

Spa are holding a fundraiser to build an astra pitch and to kick this off there are tickets on sale in the local shops and from the committee members. Tickets are € 10 and the closing date is Tuesday December 31st. First prize is a € 1,500 voucher for Centre Parcs, other prizes include a two night B and B in Raheen Woods Hotel and a € 250 voucher for the Cashel Palace Hotel.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers for this week’s draw 2,13,16,29,there was four match three winners William Queally, Barry’s Crew, Claire Sweeney and Paul Fitzgerald. Well done all.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

SAVE THE DATE

Knitting and Crochet Christmas Fair. Friday 6th of December 2024. Details to follow.

ST KIERAN’S HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY

Applications are invited for the Vacant Tenancy of a onebedroom house at St Kieran’s Place, Urlingford. To be eligible to apply you must be on the Kilkenny County Council Housing list. Applications are available from the Centre.

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I.

Free L.T.I. Course, which includes Driving Theory/Driving lessons. Places still available. Contact us for further information.

COIS NORE

Outreach Advice Clinic, at the Mill every Friday Morning from 10am to 12pm

COUNSELLING SERVICES:

Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available, Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 4+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT

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

DEFIBRILLATOR

There is a defibrillator located in the Mill FRC if and when it may be required.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS

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

YOUTH CLUB

A Youth Club is run every Wednesday Evening 5pm to 6.30pm.for 8 years of age and upwards.

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

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS CAMOGIE CLUB

Huge congratulations to our Junior Camogie ladies who won the Junior County Final on Sunday in Canon Kearns Park, Castlecomer against John Lockes. Result: Emeralds 3-03; John Lockes 2-04.

The girls are League and Championship winners 2024, well done to all players and management on a very successful year.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO

The numbers drawn for October 29th were 5, 6, 16, 21, bonus no 10. There was three match 3 winners: Bernard Kavanagh, Statia Doherty, Michael Byrne. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Kathleen McGuinness, Cyril Cleere, Karen Campion, Catherine Colleton, Bernadette Troy.

SET DANCING

Set Dancing takes place in Graine Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm. Music by Danny Webster. Sets called by Paddy Norton. New members welcome, young and old.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

The November 3rd winner of Split the Pot is Sinead and Aidan Curran who received €640. Congrats on behalf of Urlingford Community Hall Committee. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut @urlingfordtt. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Urlingford Community Hall.

GRAINE CARDS

Progressive 25 card game in Graine Hall every Wednesday night at 8pm sharp. All are welcome.

URLINGFORD-GRAINE COMMUNITY RESPONDERS

A specially trained group has been created to service the Urlingford, Graine, Woodsgift, Gortnahoe areas (and all points in between), for those who may be experiencing any of the following, Heart attack/chest pain symptoms,breathing difficulties,choking symptoms,stroke. This group replaces the Defibrillator Group which was previously in place. To contact us, just dial 999 or 112 and ask for an ambulance, as you would be anyway. The person you speak to will alert us and we will be with you as quickly as possible. Available in - Emeralds GAA grounds; Murphy’s Pharmacy (*new - replaces the unit at rear of Church); Ely’s Inver Service Station; Campion Fuels, Gortnahoe Community Hall; Gortnahoe NS; Graine Church Hall. Finally, we also offer training on CPR and the use of an AED. For more information: northkilkennycfrgroup.com

BUILD GROW COOK

How to start homesteading from scratch @MIC St Patrick’s Campus, Thurles: Tuesday November 12th, 6.15-7.15pm. Join Alexandra Vardalas and Conor King of Woodsgift Homestead as they discuss homesteading as a sustainable way of living. Audience will be treated to a starter pack of knowledge, including a sample starter garden plan and handy staple recipes to use up everything you grow! Admission is free. This is a hybrid event and can be attended in person or online. To register, please email eimear.nicconmhaic@mic.ul.ie.

URLINGFORD NEWS

Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@ gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

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 2025 at 11am and First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday 17th May 2025 at 11am.

MONTHLY FAMILY MASS

The Family Mass resumes this weekend in both churches. The theme is “In November, we remember”. All those who died during the past year will be remembered and prayed for at these Masses.

EXPLORING PRIESTHOOD

Find out more about being a Diocesan Priest by attending the open day at Pallotine College, Thurles on Sunday 19th November. Visit vocations.ie/exploring for further details.

CAMOGIE CLUB

Gortnahoe Glengoole Camogie Club are holding a cookery demonstration by Naomi Morrissey of Naomi’s Cafe in Gortnahoe Hall on Friday 15th November at 7.30pm. Tickets €25.

400 CLUB DRAW

A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the 400 club draw in support of the Gortnahoe Glengoole parish. The new draw will commence in November and promoters will be contacting all households in the parish to renew their membership for the next 12 months. We look forward to the continued support of our parish.

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW

Gortnahoe Community Hall are holding their Christmas draw on Sunday 22nd December in Gortnahoe Hall. Further details of prizes and the distribution of tickets will follow in the coming weeks. The Christmas Draw is an important fundraiser for the upkeep of the Community Hall.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo continues this Saturday evening at the earlier time of 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.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Frances Ryan, Moyne who won €191 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 November Split the Pot will be in support of the Gortnahoe Christmas lights. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

KATHERINE NORTON RIP

The death has occured of Katherine (Kitty) Norton, (née Tobin) (ex NT), Main Street, Ballingarry, Thurles and formerly of Boulea, Ballingarry, peacefully, surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her loving husband Paddy, her son Pat, daughter-in-law Kathleen and son-in-law Nicky. Deeply regretted by her loving children, William, Geraldine (Ryan), James, Bernadette (Walsh), John, Eugene, Anne (Tobin), her nephew Seamus, niece Catherine, sons-in-law Paddy and Michael, daughters-in-law Elaine, Angie, Nora, Joan and Grace, her adored 24 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. Kitty reposed in Dermot Ronan’s Funeral Home Ballingarry, followed by removal to The Church Of The Assumption, Ballingarry. Funeral Mass took place prior to burial afterwards in Fennor Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

CONAHY

FOOTBALL

The intermediate footballers unfortunately lost out to a very strong Barcelona Gaels side in the Leinster Junior Club Championship on Saturday afternoon last in UPMC Nowlan Park. The visitors were on top from an early stage and led 2-6 to 0-3 at half-time. Conahy did battle hard in the second half and were rewarded with a goal from a James Bergin penalty. However, the loss of two players to red cards in the final minutes, along with a third Barcelona goal, ensured the European champions won out on a 3-11 to 1-5 score line.

TEAM: Karl Downey, Padraig Gunner, Michael Bergin, Conor Hennessy, Tom Nolan, Darragh Hennessy, Eoin Carroll, Eoin Cahill, Donal Brennan, Harry O’Mahony, James Bergin, Darragh Dooley, Billy Mulhall, Brian Rossiter, Rob Ring. Subs.: Tom Rice, Ciaran Rice, Geoff O’Shea, Stephen McNamee, Jake Dooley.

CAMOGIE

The junior camogie girls lost out to a very strong Windgap side in the county final on Sunday afternoon last in Danesfort. Conahy tried their hardest all through, but as the game progressed, Windgap’s greater size and strength eventually took its toll and they had a big win in the end. Great credit to all the Conahy girls involved for the achievement of getting to a county final, in spite of the result.

TEAM: Niamh Delaney, Aoife Gamble, Gráinne Comerford, Sarah Webster, Amy Lawless, Amy Morrissey, Hannah Murphy, Aisling Maher, Evelyn Phelan, Siofraidh Kennedy, Grace Mulhall, Aisling Downey, Molly O’Dornan, Robyn Morrissey, Emma Cahill, Emily Murphy, Sarah Molloy, Aislin Comerford, Naomi Kerr, Lauren Buggy, Molly Trait, Megan Hurley, Aisling Lawless.

INFORMATION MEETING

Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club and Conahy Shamrocks Camogie Club invite their members to an information meeting on this Friday evening, November 8th, at 7.00 p.m. in the GAA Clubhouse. The purpose of the meeting is to outline plans to integrate both clubs (including Bórd na nÓg) under the GAA One Club Model. A large attendance is welcome in order to fully inform as many people as possible of these plans ahead of a possible proposal for the AGM of both clubs and Bórd na nÓg.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 20, 29 and 37. There was no winner of the jackpot, so the consolation prize winners were Brendan Griffith, Michael Bergin Rathkyle, Larry Butler, Giles Barrett, John and Margaret Bergin. The promoter prize winners were Peter Mulhall, Margaret Buggy and Seamus Óg Brennan. Many thanks to everyone who supports the GAA Club Lotto.

SUNDAY NIGHT CARDS

Progressive 25’s take place every Sunday night in the GAA Clubhouse at 8.00 p.m. All are welcome.

JOHNNY DOOLEY MEMORIAL

Conahy Vintage Club recently ran a very successful Johnny Dooley Memorial vintage tractor and lorry run. The proceeds from the event were shared with Cois Nore and the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team.

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL

Please note that the Conahy conference of the St. Vincent de Paul Society has a new contact number - (085) 2160466should anyone in the locality wish to avail of their support.

CONAHY BOOK CLUB

The Conahy Book Club is flying along in recent times. Books read this year include Lessons in Chemistry, Year of the Locust, A Thread of Violence, The Lost Dressmaker of Paris, Hannah Coulter, to name but a few. The Club don’t just read books, they listen to audiobooks too. So if you like to read or listen to books, why not join them for their Christmas night on Friday, November 22nd at 7.00 p.m. at The Orchard, Kilkenny, they would love to see you. The next book is “All the Colours of the Dark” by Chris Whittaker. If you would like to join the book club app, please text Marion O’Dornan on 087-1649567.

COIS NORE CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny have an Outreach Service for the community of Ballyragget and the surrounding areas every Monday morning. Call in for a chat, support, and registration to The Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny. The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held in the morning from 10 am to 12 pm at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, The Square in Ballyragget. Please do not hesitate to drop or, for an appointment contact 087-4833941. Cois Nore Outreach is also available in Castlecomer on Monday mornings at The Old Courthouse, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer from 10 am to 12pm.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD

MASS TIMES

In Aghaviller Parish, Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil, Saturday 9th. at 8.00p.m., Sunday 10th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Wednesday at 7.00p.m. Vigil - Saturday 9th. at 6.30p.m. Anniversary Mass Kathleen Tennyson, Mabbistown, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 9th. November at 8.00p.m. Mass of Remembrance:

Suir Engineering will celebrate Mass for the Deceased Colleagues on Friday 8th. November in the Church of the Assumption in Mooncoin, Co Kilkenny at 6.30pm. Followed by refreshments upstairs in Mooncoin G.A.A. Complex. All are welcome to attend.

PARISH CONTRIBUTIONS

Many thanks to all who have contributed to the “October Station” Contributions during the past weeks.

Rota

Week-end: 9th./10th. November. (32nd. Sunday in Ordinary Time) Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Rita O’Farrell. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy; Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m. Teresa Broderick; Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 28th. October 2024 Numbers: 30; 18; 06; 28. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners, Ryan Hayes, c/o Teresa Fitzgerald. Natasha Silke, c/o Mary Doyle. John Driscoll, Jamestown. John Fitzpatrick, Knockmoylan. Garry Comerford, Carrickmerlin. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers). Mary Raggett, James Irish, Trish Power. DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES The Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 19th. to 25th. May 2025. Bus transport from Loughboy Shopping Centre to Cork Airport. Direct flights to Lourdes. Full religious programme. Further information and Bookings at J.W.T. 01 241 0800 or email info@joewalshtours.ie. Assisted Pilgrims contact Fr. Anthony O’Connor 087 251 7766. NOVEMBER OFFERINGS 2024: November Offerings Envelopes 2024 are available at the Church Porch. Your contribution can be left into the Collection Boxes at the Churches or you may donate directly – Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). SCRIPTURE – NEW TESTAMENT Learning more about what it is that we believe. Course on /11th./18th./25th. November in St. Kieran’s College. “Scripture - New Testament” given by Fr Fergus Farrell. Approaching the Bible: The Word of God in Human Words. Introduction to the Gospels: Meeting Matthew. • One Jesus, Many Portraits: Jesus in Matthew and the other Gospels. • Paul and the Good News of Christ Crucified.

Pictured at the presentation were Shem Kavanagh (Chairman, Conahy Vintage Club) Leslie Moynan (Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team) Paddy Rafter (Treasurer, Conahy Vintage Club)_ Sheila Murphy (Cois Nore Fund Raising C

It's a very busy weekend ahead in Gowran/Dungarvan as Davy Carter is running The Ultra 300 Challenge in memory of his Dad Charlie Carter, and he will arrive in his native Gowran tomorrow (Saturday) having completed The Ultra 300 Challenge after running 300KM across 6 different counties in 6 days this week

Davy will arrive in Gowran tomorrow on what would have been the day of his Dad Charlie's 75th Birthday while also tomorrow on a busy day in Gowran, Racing will take place in Gowran Park that will be broadcast live on TG4.

Meanwhile on Sunday, the annual Stook 10 Mile Run will take place in Dungarvan and it's the second time this year that The Stook Run is taking place as it was also held in early March.

Located in Dungarvan between Gowran and Thomastown, The Stook Run is open to everyone and has a variety

BY PAUL BOLGER

Stook 10 mile run 2024 Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary The body remembers

Research is revealing that serious maltreatment in childhood can leave a mark on our health – resulting in a greater risk of long-term health problems in adulthood. If you want to read about it, take a look at last week’s article on the Observer's website. How do things that happen early in life affect us so much farther down the line?

The Body Learns

The reasons these effects to ripple across a lifetime seem to be due to adaptations in the body’s internal regulatory systems (the nervous system, hormonal system and immune system are key here). Stress pathways play an important role.

Stress is a normal part of life, and we respond to many stressors throughout a normal day.   Children are primed to adapt and learn - this helps them to make sense of the world around them. Those who suffer from adverse experiences in childhood will ‘learn’ that the world is a dangerous and unpredictable place. This leaves a mark deep within their biology – their systems have learned to spot threats in the world around them (even when there are no threats).

of distances suitable to a persons individual ability.

Since The Stook Run was first held 12 years ago, it has raised much needed funds for both Young Irelands GAA and Gowran Athletic Club, and it has always received great interest not just locally but nationwide. The race has earned a reputation as a tough but enjoyable road race that offers a friendly and welcoming community atmosphere, and it attracts runners with a wide range of abilities.

It has become a recognized event on the Irish Athletics Calendar, and over the years some of the top Irish Athletes have competed.

The Stook 10 Mile route is set over an challenging but enjoyable 10-mile route, with the route taking Athletes cross gentle valleys and up country roads before emerging at the top of Stook Hill. On a clear day, there is amazing scenery with stun-

ning views from the top of Stook Hill as you go downhill where you will experience Ireland’s fastest timed downhill mile – The Stook Flying Mile.

With timing mats at either end everyone receives a personal split for that single mile, and it always attract great interest and is great fun. Also on Sunday, there are

shorter routes over 10KM and The Family Fun over 5KM. A very good turnout is expected on Sunday with The 10 Mile race starting at 11.30am.

For further details for anyone who wishes to run on Sunday, you can check out https://gowranac.com/ stook10-2024/ or https:// eventmaster.ie/event/ppdBuvyTyo for further information.

Meanwhile, Irelands Medieval Mile Run will take place on Friday 29th November in Kilkenny at 7.30pm.

Ireland's Medieval Mile on 29th November 2024 is an annual race hosted by the Kilkenny City Harriers in association with Yulefest Kilkenny. Open to all levels, the run takes place through

a

This is a great survival tool –if you grow and develop in a dangerous and unpredictable environment where threats may lie around any corner, it is a good idea to have a highly active stress system. This, however, can impact longterm health.

Fight or flight VS rest and digest

I’ve written previously about the role stress plays in life. Without a stress response, we would not be here today – our ancestors would have died a long time ago. Stress is perfectly healthy in short, sharp doses. Problems arise when it is frequent and persistent. Traumatic experiences in childhood can result in a dysregulated stress system, resulting in more frequent and prolonged stress responses.

During a stress response,

Kilkenny City and along Kilkenny's famous Medieval Mile.

The race starts at the Army Barracks before crossing over St Francis Abbey Bridge, passing along Irish Town and High Street before finishing outside Kilkenny Castle to music and twinkle of Christmas Lights. The Timed Mile Race is €15(plus booking fee), and includes timing chip and specially designed event shirt.

Prize Money of €200, €150 and €100 for the first three male and female, while €50 is on offer for the first male and female junior.

Along with all that, their is a Bonus of €300 for the first male home under 4 minutes, and the first female home under 4.35 minutes.

Also on the night, there is a Free Mile Run open to all where participants must register before the event. For further information on The Medieval Mile Run you can register at www.kch.ie or https://www.popupraces. ie/race/irelands-medievalmile-run-2024/

building projects of the body – things like digestion and the repair and maintenance of cells, tissues and organs (ever wonder why some people lose hair or have digestive issues flare up during prolonged stressful periods?).

When we are in a relaxed, low-stress state, it is said we are in ‘rest and digest’ mode – when those medium to long-term projects such as healing, digestion and maintenance thrive. Perhaps you can appreciate why persistent stress over months and years can put people at risk of developing health problems.

What to do?

the body mobilises energy reserves (such as stored sugars and nutrients) and sends resources to the areas needed to survive (like the big muscles in the legs) - it prepares us for ‘fight or flight’. In doing this, it takes resources from the long-term

How might we, as a society, confront this problem? How might we reduce the impact of maltreatment in childhood? And how might we help those who have suffered receive the right help to ‘train’ their stress systems to cope with the world around them? We will explore this next week  It is my opinion that (while the healthcare system has a role to play) political, regulatory and economic policies are key. A fairer, more equitable society where people feel safe, supported, engaged and connected is a general goal to work towards.  If anybody needs support or help with any of the issues raised here, please do inform your GP or local mental health support providers.

All-Stars awards

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Munster’s perceived domination of all things hurling was rubberstamped last Friday evening when all fifteen awards went to the province, with new All-Ireland champions Clare leading the way with six players claiming the PwC sponsored accolades at the starstudded ceremony at the RDS in Dublin. Just three counties are represented, with Cork and Limerick joining The Banner. For the first time since the awards began, there were no Leinster participating recipients, and this will re-enforce the belief held by many, that all the chairs at the top table of hurling are Munster ones. As expected, Shane O’Donnell was crowned Hurler of the Year, following an outstanding season for the Éire Óg Ennis clubman whose contributions helped ensure both Allianz league and Liam MacCarthy titles were won by the Banner County this year. The powerful forward has enjoyed somewhat of a renaissance since he was chosen as a surprise starter in the 2013 All-Ireland final replay against Cork and delivered a POTM performance that included a hat-trick of goals inside the first twenty minutes at Croker as a fresh 19-year-old. In this season’s championship, O’Donnell notched a personal tally of 2-14 as Brian Lohan’s outfit reached the pinnacle and claimed the top honors.

The Banner’s double winning season saw a further five players pick up awards. Another double was secured when Adam Hogan collected the Young Hurler of the Year award, along with his All-Star. The Feakle man was thoroughly impressive in his defensive role, shackling some top forwards, including our own Eoin Cody as he proved to be a real ‘sticky’ marker. It wasn’t just at intercounty level that Hogan thrived, he also added a Fitzgibbon Cup with Mary Immaculate College this year, and recently secured the Clare senior club title as Feakle defeated Sixmilebridge by 7 points.

Tulla’s David McInerney picked up his second All-Star, as did Inagh-Kilnamona’s versatile David Fitzgerald while there was a first award for Scariff clubman Mark Rodgers who notched 1-3 in this year’s final. Meanwhile Tony Kelly became Clare’s most decorated All-Star when we picked up his 5th award. The Ballyea man scored 1-4 in the win over Cork, with his 51st minute goal being a thing of absolute beauty. Of the Clare men that missed out, I would say that Diarmuid Ryan and the evergreen John Conlon, were perhaps a little unlucky.

Beaten finalists Cork secured five awards on the night from their ten nominations. The Downey brothers, Eoin and Robert became the fourth set of siblings from the

Leinster loses out as Munster dominates hurling All-Star awards

Banner lead the way with 6 of the best

Rebel County to pick up All-Star awards, following in the footsteps of Ben and Jerry O’Connor, Tom and Jim Cashman, and Seán and Setanta Ó hAilpín. Providing a strong spine in the Cork team, Rob’s switch to the ‘6’ position was crucial in his side’s march to this year’s final. He also managed to showcase his attacking instincts when striking an early goal in the defeat to Clare.

Charleville’s towering Darragh Fitzgibbon rightly picked up his second gong,

Cian Kenny missed out while Mark Rodgers won his 1st All-Star

following on from his 2018 award for some cracking displays in the engine room this season. Pat Ryan’s outfit also secured two awards in the forward division, with Blarney’s Shane Barrett and St Ita’s Seamus Harnedy picking up their first and third awards respectively, however there was no room for Pa Horgan, who would have been hoping to collect his fifth individual accolade. Beaten semi-finalists Limerick, secured four awards, their lowest return in a while in a season that yielded only a 25th Munster

title. Nickie Quaid collected his third award, the Effin clubman taking the netminder position ahead of the unlucky Patrick Collins. The Treaty had two defensive lynchpins selected, Ahane’s Dan Morrissey and Kildimo-Pallaskenry’s Kyle Hayes awarded their fourth and fifth All-Stars respectively. As you would expect, there was some commentary around the latter’s suitability for the award given his off-field activity. The final one of John Kiely’s troops selected, was St Patrick’s Gearóid Hegarty, who added a fourth gong to his name. Kilkenny had four nominees going into last week’s ceremony, Huw Lawlor, David Blanchfield,

Cian Kenny and John Donnelly. Having lost out to Clare in both the Allianz League final and AllIreland semi-final, the current Leinster champions became the first side since Tipp in 2012 to win a provincial title and not collect an All-Star award. Personally, our best chances probably lay with Cian Kenny and John Donnelly. Both players had their best seasons in the black and amber to date, James Stephens clubman Cian Kenny was one of Derek Lyng’s most consistent performers, operating in midfield, while Thomastown’s John Donnelly brought his tremendous club form into Kilkenny stripes as he tried to ignite the forward

unit throughout both league and championship campaigns. In the end, Kenny lost out to Clare’s Tony Kelly while JD was pipped to the half forward line by the Rebel’s Seamus Harnedy. While the All-Stars are not as important as having a Celtic Cross in your back pocket, the lack of a Noreside representative will hurt, and next season’s panel of Cats will be eager to try and end the Liam MacCarthy drought for the Marble City. The appointment of Thomastown’s championship winning manager Noel Doherty to Derek Lyng’s backroom team should be a boost to the county ahead of another season of great expectations.

Hogan’s hands: Eoin Cody knows all about All-Star & Young Hurler of the Year Adam Hogan earning his stripes

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans

We, Stoneyford Development Association CLG intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for a Proposed new all-weather synthetic playing pitch with low perimeter fencing, proposed flood lighting for the new allweather synthetic playing pitch and the existing walking track, stormwater soakaways, low retaining wall, landscaping and all associated site works at Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny. Ref. No. of the application: 2360575. Significant Further Information/Revised plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Bríd Mackey, wish to apply to the above authority for full planning permission to construct a detached domestic garage and all associated site works at Clonassy, 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.

Signed: Bríd Mackey

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Raimondas Mackevicius and Rosita Mackeviciene for the following works:

Retention Planning permission of constructed extension to side of dwelling.

Full Planning permission for to 1. relocate existing vehicular entrance and carry out roadside boundary works in order to improve visibility sightlines 2. To construct a domestic detached garage and all other associated site works at Newmarket, Co. Kilkenny R95 EHW0.

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 Ken and Louise Walsh for Full Planning permission to construct a single storey flat roof extension to the rear of public house known as Walshs Bar, Windgap, Co. Kilkenny R95 PF98

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.

In loving memory of Sean and Julia Kennedy, late of Grovine, Waterford Road, Kilkenny.

Just a prayer from the family who loved you

Just a memory fond and true In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you

Sadly missed by your son Colm and Family XX

Anniversary Mass, Sunday November 10th at 10.30am in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown.

A Prayer to the Blessed

Virgin

(never known to fail).

O most

of

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.C.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. MDM.

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.R.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.M.

SEAN KENNEDY 8TH ANNIVERSARY

JULIA KENNEDY 7TH ANNIVERSARY