Kilkenny Observer 09 January 2026

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Friday 9th January 2026

A Brother's Promise 'I will never give up on my long search for Imelda'  News Page 6

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Economic Forecast Tariffs and Trump, and more drawbacks lurking  John Ellis Page 16

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

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The Big Brush-off !

Waterford the cleanest city but Kilkenny needs to do better Waterford is still the cleanest city in the country, but there is good news for Kilkenny, with “no heavily littered sites”, according to the latest Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) survey.

The survey found that, in general, cities were cleaner last year, including in socially disadvantaged areas.

IBAL spokesperson Conor Horgan said the least clean areas are improving, with previous blackspots Galvone in Limerick, Mahon in Cork and Tallaght in Dublin now among urban areas deemed “clean”.

Sligo is the cleanest town in the country, while An Taisce reports show no improvement for moderately littered Carlow,

but Kilkenny is rated as clean.

The An Taisce report for Kilkenny states: “A good result for Kilkenny with no heavily littered sites and some sites just missing the top litter grade. The latter included High Street, the residential area of Beechlawn and the bring facility at New Park Shopping Centre.

“The wonderful grounds of Kilkenny Castle Park were sensitively presented and maintained – excellent with regards to litter. The Watershed Leisure Centre had some lovely features, including picnic tables and welcoming planting at the entrance.”

For Carlow town, its low ranking is explained by the

presence of just one “clean” site in the town – the lowest number in all the towns surveyed. In fact, one would expect a town with just one topranking site to fare worse in the league. However, there were many sites which just missed the top litter grade. These included the residential area of Oakley Park and Tullow Street.

Rural Ireland – driven off road

What parents fear for their children

Rural Ireland is being driven off the road by new, punishing government-imposed fuel taxes, transport charges, and levies, with devastating consequences for small, family-run businesses across rural Ireland. That is according to Irish Road Haulage Association President Ger Hyland, who has described the government as being completely out of touch with the cost pressures facing rural Ireland.

Hyland was speaking in the wake of a series of new Government-mposed fuel taxes, toll charges, and fuel levies that kicked in on January 1, making drivers paying the highest diesel rates in the EU.

Deep concern about access to children’s mental health services is among the many worries expressed by parents, according to Ireland’s first major research snapshot focused specifically on the experiences of parents of school-going children, which has just been released.

Published by Schooldays.ie, Ireland’s leading online resource for parents and teachers, the research marks the organisation’s 20th anniversary and gathered responses from almost 2,000 parents nationwide.

The survey explores family finances, mental health, learning needs, exam reform, Irish as a compulsory subject, online safety, bullying, mobile phone ownership and parenting styles.

What’s the beef for Irish farmers ?

Photo posed by models.

Full story, Page 14

Texan sold ’em on whiskey distillery An American oil billionaire’s plans to build a private whiskey distillery at his historic estate in Co Kilkenny have taken a major step forward after receiving approval from council planners.

Last August, Kelcy Warren, chairman and largest shareholder of Energy Transfer, a US gas and oil pipeline firm valued at more than $56.5bn (€48bn), submitted plans to

develop a distillery on the grounds of Castletown Cox Estate in Kilkenny. The Palladian mansion, one of Ireland’s finest, was bought by Warren for €12.6m in 2018.

Bloomberg’s Billionaire Index recently estimated Warren’s worth – he is from Texas – at around $8.2bn.

Rosebrack Ltd, a company owned by Warren, received approval from Kilkenny

The bottle bank at Town Hall Car Park was much improved and just missed the top grade.

Mr Price and its car park were moderately littered – an overall improvement on previous IBAL surveys.

The two most heavily littered sites were Carlow Train Station and Staplestown Road / Oakley Park estate.

County Council for the plans late last month. The approval is subject to 19 conditions, according to a decision notice seen by the Sunday Independent.

Planning documents filed with Kilkenny County Council said Rosebrack does not intend to sell spirits commercially “at this stage”.

Rosebrack hopes the microdistillery will become a “leg-

acy project” for the estate, which dates back to 1767, according to the documents.

Last year, the plans were met with a formal objection from a local resident over concerns that noise levels would be “incompatible” with the area. Another objector feared the development of a new well near her own could lower water levels.

Council planners also sought further information on potential issues, including odours.

The whiskey project will include the restoration, conservation and refurbishment of six existing farm outbuildings.

In 2024, Warren co-hosted a pre-election fundraiser for Donald Trump. Attendance cost $250,000 a head.

Cheap beef may soon become further out of reach. Brazil, one of the world’s few remaining sources of abundant cattle, is heading into a period of shrinking supplies that could push global prices higher.

For the past two years, a surge in Brazil’s beef production helped fuel a jump in exports.

That cycle is now turning, with impacts that will ripple through global markets. This is against the background of Irish beef farmers opposing the EU-Mercosur Deal, under negotiation this weekend, because they fear they will be undercut by unfair competition from cheaper South American beef.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

News

Come into the community garden, Maud Community Gardens Ireland has welcomed new legislation which obliges local authorities to prepare a strategy to reserve and ring-fence land for use as community gardens and allotments.

The sections of the Planning and Development Act 2024 relating to community gardens and allotments came into effect on 31 December.

These sections require Kilkenny County Council and other local authorities to prepare a strategy in their development plans that includes the reserving and allocating of land for use as community gardens and allotments.

The new strategy document has five requirements for the creation, improvement and preservation of sustainable places and communities, including the improvement, protection and reserving of land for community gardens and allotments.

Welcoming the announcement, Community Gardens Ireland Co-Chairperson Dónal McCormack said: “Community gardens and allotments provide a sustainable method for communities to grow together.

“We have seen examples from all over Ireland of how these spaces grow connections in communities, help bring people together regardless of age or background, and

educate multiple generations on where our food comes from and how to grow it. And yet, compared to other European countries, Ireland currently offers far fewer community gardens and allotments.

These new requirements for local authorities are also being introduced 100 years since the first Allotments Act in Ireland in 1926.

“It is imperative that community gardens and allot-

ments are planned for by local authorities to ensure the creation, improvement and protection of more of these essential spaces,” he said.

Molly Garvey, Community Gardens Ireland Co-Chairper-

son, agrees: “The evidence, from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change reports to the Citizens’ Assembly on biodiversity loss, is clear – there is no doubt that community gardens and al-

lotments make communities more sustainable, help with the climate and biodiversity crises, and bring people together.

“Our vision is for every community to have a space to grow and gather, for these spaces to be places where every member of the community is welcome to use and learn about gardening, food growing, food sovereignty, biodiversity and more.”

Following the activation of these sections of the Planning and Development Act 2024, Community Gardens Ireland hopes that the Government will now issue guidance documents to local authorities on the provision of community gardens and allotments. The Government first indicated that such guidance documents relating to community gardens and allotments were to be issued by December 2023, with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage acknowledging in November 2025 that they are still due to be progressed.

Ireland is significantly behind other countries in issuing this type of guidance documentation, with the Welsh Government first issuing guidance for community gardens and allotments in 2015 and the Scottish Government issuing its guidance documents in 2019.

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News

Holiday season still with us… World Cup too New research for Aer Lingus shows that holiday planning plays an important role for many people at the start of the year, with almost three quarters of Irish adults (73%) saying that booking a holiday early helps lift the January blues or improves their mood.

The survey also found that

85% say it is important to book a trip early in the year so they have something to look forward to.

The findings are released as Aer Lingus launches its January Sale, with flights to North America available from €179 each way and savings of up to 25% on flights across the

United Kingdom and Europe.

Looking ahead to 2026, Irish people are planning a mix of trips across the year. More than a third (36%) say they plan to prioritise frequent short breaks, compared with 20% who expect to take one long holiday, while 33% plan a combination of both.

Sun, sea and sand holidays (65%) and city breaks (54%) remain the most popular types of trips. Almost half of respondents (48%) say they are most likely to travel during the shoulder season rather than peak summer months, with families with school-age children more likely to plan

travel during peak periods.

Long-haul travel continues to feature strongly in Irish travel plans. One in three respondents (34%) say they are planning a trip to the US, Canada or Mexico in 2026, with a further 22% considering it. Despite this interest, only 10% say they have already

booked so far, highlighting a significant window for earlyyear planning and booking.

Major sporting events are also featuring in travel plans for 2026. More than a quarter of Irish adults (27%) say they would consider travelling to the World Cup if Ireland qualifies.

of the case was undertaken by gardaí after years of campaigning by Imelda’s family to have the probe upgraded from that of a missing person to a murder investigation. However, in September, the family was informed by gardaí that there was not enough evidence to upgrade the investigation.

Her brother Gerry told the Irish Examiner it “was like somebody had stuck a knife in my heart”.

Imelda took no belong-

ings with her when she left the flat, and her credit union account was left untouched. Among the items she left behind were her glasses and her cigarettes, and unopened Christmas presents.

Her family wonders why unopened Christmas presents remained in the flat early in the new year, particularly as some were from nephews who lived in Waterford City, sons of her brother Ned.

Hang onto the turkey leftovers!

Here’s why Cheap beef may soon become further out of reach. Brazil, one of the world’s few remaining sources of abundant cattle, is heading into a period of shrinking supplies that could push global prices higher.

For the past two years, a surge in Brazil’s beef production helped fuel a jump in exports.

That’s as ample herds drove cattle prices lower compared to other regions, and ranchers were encouraged to send more animals to slaughter.

At the same time, countries such as the US struggled with high food costs and sought out sources of cheaper beef.

That cycle is turning, with impacts that will ripple through global markets. This is against the background of Irish beef farmers opposing the EU– Mercosur deal, under negotiation this weekend, because they fear they will be undercut by unfair competition from cheaper South American beef.

The deal, which is more than 25 years in the making, would lower barriers to trade between Europe and Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Paraguay, opening up big new markets for either side.

Meanwhile, climbing prices for calves in Brazil are signalling the start of a new phase, in which ranchers start holding back female cattle to rebuild herds. The practice, known as heifer retention, reduces the number of animals sent to slaughter and marks the beginning of a tightening supply cycle.

“We are coming out of the phase of excess, and the phase of scarcity hasn’t even begun,” said César de Castro Alves, manager of agronomic consultancy at Itau BBA bank. Scarcity, he said, was likely to last a few years.

That’s a major reversal for global beef markets and bad news for consumers, as demand for protein remains high.

Brazil’s ample supplies have given local meatpackers a cost advantage over rivals in the US, Australia and elsewhere.

That helped the country ramp up exports not only to the US, but also to major buyers such as China.

Now, slaughter rates are expected to slow, reducing available beef supplies.

Improved breeding efficiency may soften the downturn compared with previous tightening cycles, said João Otávio de Assis Figueiredo, a commodity analyst at consultancy Datagro.

Still, the firm forecasts that Brazil’s cattle slaughter will fall 5.3pc next year, following two straight years of growth.

The issue is aggravated by a downturn in other beef-producing countries.

Cattle supplies in the US are expected to remain tight for at least another year, with heifer retention also yet to begin in earnest, while some retention is expected to occur soon in second-largest exporter Australia as well. This is affecting prices for all.

Vital seminar on agri topics Agri Aware’s inaugural industry-focused ‘Food for Thought Industry Briefing’ event will take place at the Osprey Hotel in Naas on Thursday, January 15.

The event will hear from prominent figures in the agricultural sector, both nationally and internationally,

on key topics dominating the headlines.

Speakers will include keynote speaker Tadhg Buckley of the Irish Farmers’ Association, Ksenija Simovic of COPA-COGECA, Kevin Maher of Dairy Sustainability Ireland and Phelim O’Neill of the Irish Farmers Journal.

Brother won’t give up on missing Imelda The brother of missing woman Imelda Keenan [pictured] says he will keep campaigning to find her “as long as I have breath in my body”.

Gerry Keenan’s then 22-year-old sister was last seen on Lombard Street in Waterford City at about 1.30pm on January 3, 1994.

The Co Laois native was unemployed and had been doing a computer course at the then Central Technical Institute in Waterford at the

time of her disappearance.

She had been living in a flat on William Street in the city with her boyfriend.

She left her apartment on January 3 to go to the GPO on the quays in Waterford, but it was a bank holiday, so it is not known why she was going to the post office, as it would have been closed.

She was spotted on the Mall in the city around that time, the last reported sighting of her.

Earlier this year, a review

Local parachute club loses in High Court The High Court has ruled that the Irish Aviation Authority had powers to ground an aircraft and suspend the licence of a pilot associated with a parachuting club based in Kilkenny during safety inspections three years ago.

Mr Justice Anthony Barr dismissed a legal action taken by the Irish Skydiving Club and its director, Eoin Nevin, which challenged the legality of two inspections carried out by IAA officials on an airfield in Hoddensrath, Co Kilkenny on August 26, 2022 and again on

September 16, 2022.

The plaintiffs sought orders from the High Court setting aside the IAA’s findings and imposing corrective actions on the aviation regulatory body.

They claimed the IAA carried out the inspections without legal authority and that the IAA’s inspectors lacked competency and acted unlawfully and in breach of fair procedures.

All claims were denied by the IAA. The High Court heard that the

IAA had been in contact with the Irish Skydiving Club since July 2021 to arrange an inspection of the club’s operations.

Mr Justice Barr noted that an IAA official had received “a somewhat frosty response” from Mr Nevin who complained that the club had not had any contact from the regulatory body in the previous six years.

In an affidavit, one of the IAA inspectors said a checklist for parachuting operations presented to him by Mr Nevin during an inspection on

August 26, 2022 was “entirely unsatisfactory”.

The pilot was instructed that he could not fly the aircraft for parachuting operations until a suitable checklist had been formulated and presented to the IAA for review.

Mr Justice Barr ruled that the interactions between an IAA inspector and Mr Nevin and his colleague, David Byrne, in the period before any inspection at the airfield did not limit nor prevent the regulatory body from carrying out ramp inspections.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

That we have lived at all is the miracle It seems like it was only yesterday that I wrote in this column… Where did that year go, with a new one upon us? Now, here I am again, wondering where the last 12 months went. I may not be any the wiser, but I am, unfortunately, another year older and it seems, with each passing year, time flies at an alarming pace.

My wonderful daughter said to me once, regarding some topic or other, “You know, Dad, in three years’ time I will be 40!” And I said, “You know, Niamh, I was 40 only yesterday.”

Of course, I was 40 a score and more years ago: it just seems like yesterday. And if you, dear reader, are of similar vintage, you will know exactly what I mean.

When you are young, time passes quite slowly. Each birthday is a monumental occasion. Those long, lazy summers of childhood seem

to never end. We perhaps remember trying to make the clock hands move faster with our minds as we sat bored in class. But as we grow older, life seems to speed up.

Birthdays we’d sooner forget about, rather not notice them, as we feel like we’re hurtling towards old age. Why does it feel like this?

Is time really moving faster somehow?

From the University of Kansas comes a study to understand this phenomenon of time going faster as we get older. Scientists tested this theory, first proposed by the contemporary physicist and philosopher Douglas Hofstadter, that time appears to speed up because we start grouping distinct individual experiences into larger “chunks”, like all our Christmases into one.

When we are young, we have many big moments, experienced for the very

first time. So going to a park can be quite a big deal, with many memorable sensations experienced. But as we grow older, going to that park offers fewer and fewer new experiences. So, we start collapsing them into memory “chunks”, putting everything that happened simply under “a walk in the park”, in effect making that particular span of time feel brief. At least that’s Hofstadter’s contention.

I recall a couple of years back reading a provocative essay in The Atlantic by the renowned American oncologist and bioethicist Dr Ezekiel Emanuel, entitled Why I Hope to Die at 75. Provocative, because the eminent scientist, now 69, has declared he will refuse medical interventions, antibiotics, and vaccinations once he turns 75.

The crux of his argument is that the older among us are living too long in a “disabled and diminished state of life”.

He wants to make his friends and others think about how they want to live as they grow older. As he put it: “I want

“When we are young we have many big moments, experienced for the very first time…

them to think of an alternative to succumbing to that slow constriction of activities and aspirations imperceptibly imposed by ageing.”

I am, like many, at the moment at least, opposed to this kind of thinking. And, anyway, Emanuel’s ideas may soon become obsolete — with many contemporary scientists believing we are on course to living up to 180 years old! (We are, in fact, still evolving, but that’s another day’s debate.)

Meantime, I endeavour to live life, each day, in the “moment”. A kind of mindfulness, if you like, which seems to be all the buzz at the moment. Living “in the moment” seems to allow me to appreciate such moments more fully, creating meaningful memories.

At the end of the day, these days, I find myself more often re-sensitised to the satisfaction of the simple things life

offers. Spring was never so vibrant, but autumn does, most days, seem richly gold.

Increasingly, I find people are of abiding interest — observed on the street, overheard on the bus, down the pub of an evening.

Small pleasures have greater meaning now; that pint, the walk by the mill, my friend’s just-published book of essays, my daughter’s daily phone call…

In their own way, such simple things counteract life’s quickening pace.

At the end of the day, middle and old age, and the attainment of such, should be laudably embraced, for it is that time of life denied to so many throughout the world, for whom death comes calling early.

That I have lived another year is a miracle in itself. May your new year bring you all the good life has to offer.

Miracles, even…

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Boy mauled by dog is to sue A young boy who suffered life-changing injuries in an attack by an XL Bully dog has issued High Court proceedings against the owners and Tuath Housing.

The boy, Alejandro Mizsan, was aged nine when he was mauled by the XL Bully dog while he was playing with friends in the Forgelands estate in Enniscorthy, Co

Wexford, in November 2022.

A personal injury case is now being brought against the owners, Karen Miller and Niall Byrne, who were both jailed for two years in March 2024 after the incident. It is understood that both Miller and Byrne were released from custody last year.

Housing body Tuath, which completed the Forgelands

estate in conjunction with Wexford County Council, has also been joined in the proceedings. A spokesperson for Tuath said it did not comment on court cases when contacted.

Pit bulls and nine other breeds of restricted dogs are banned from complexes managed by the housing body.

Karen Miller and Niall Byrne, who were in a relationship at the time, had been living there and were ordered to vacate the house following the incident.

A medical report by a plastic surgery consultant said Alejandro lost 60% of his lip, suffered devastating injuries and lifelong scarring from ear to ear.

Byrne was jailed for two years after he pleaded guilty to the inhumane destruction of the dog and to two counts of threatening to harm or kill under Section 5 of the NonFatal Offences Against the Person Act. The threats were made against Francis Miller, Karen Miller’s father, and his former neighbour, Caroline O’Brien, after the attack.

It is understood he was released from jail last June.

Miller had pleaded guilty to two charges of endangerment in relation to Alejandro Mizsan and Daniel Whelan, another boy in the estate who was attacked by the dog four days before the incident involving Alejandro. It is understood she was released from jail last January.

New study solves conundrum on the ideal size of the dairy cow A long-running debate over the ideal size of the Irish dairy cow has been reignited by new research from Teagasc and the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF).

The study found that smaller dairy cows are more efficient in pasture-based systems. This is despite longheld fears among some in the dairy sector that reducing cow size would lead to a collapse in milk production or progeny carcass quality.

The study, authored by Donagh Berry and Ross

Evans, examined data from over 830,000 lactations and 580,000 Irish Holstein-Friesian cows to determine if a “critical threshold” exists where a cow becomes too small to be profitable.

The results suggest that within the range of sizes typical for Irish farms, no such productivity threshold exists.

In a pasture-based system where energy intake is often constrained, smaller cows are theoretically more efficient because they require

a lower proportion of their feed for maintenance.

The research confirmed this theory, showing that while genetically lighter cows did produce marginally less milk — roughly a 1.1% to 1.3p% drop for every 10kg reduction in live-weight genetic merit — the efficiency of milk solids production relative to body weight actually improved as cows became genetically lighter.

The study concludes that the “modest” increase in milk output from heavier

cows is often outweighed by the increased costs of feeding and maintaining a much larger animal on Irish farms.

Therefore, the economic advantage of selecting for heavier cows in Irish grassbased systems appears to be limited.

“Moderate genetic reductions in cow live-weight may improve herd efficiency without materially compromising milk solids or progeny carcass output,” the researchers said.

Women feel the pinch when it comes to money An AIB Digital Advice Research has found that 34% of women said they felt somewhat or very uncomfortable with their financial situation, while 85% of women said they do not feel confident enough to start investing. Some 37% of women believe that while investing is suitable for most people, they do not yet feel confident enough to start themselves, a hesitation that can impact long-term financial resilience over time.

These patterns are also reflected in retirement outcomes. AIB’s previously published Closing the Gender Pension Gap report shows that women in Ireland retire with pensions that are, on average, 31% lower than men.

While this gap has narrowed from 37% in 2018, it remains a key challenge affecting women’s financial independence and choices later in life.

Marie Kent, Financial Planning Specialist at AIB in Kilkenny, Carlow and Wexford, said: “At AIB, we recognise the importance of supporting women to build confidence when it comes to financial planning. By acknowledging the barriers women continue to face, such as the gender pension gap, and providing genuine support, we can help women take charge of their financial independence and foster a

culture where everyone has the tools and assurance they need to thrive.”

Financial planning is not about having everything sorted. Before changing anything, take a moment to get a clear picture of what you already have in place, such as savings, pension, income and any benefits through work.

Even a quick check-in can bring clarity and reassurance.

Pensions can feel distant or complicated, but knowing what you have, and where, is a powerful first step. Looking at employer contributions, personal pensions or older arrangements helps you understand your future options.

Saving consistently is one of the strongest financial habits. The next step is asking whether your savings are set up in the right way for what you want: short-term flexibility, longer-term growth, or a mix of both.

You don’t need spreadsheets, perfect organisation or all the answers. A conversation with an adviser can help you sense-check where you are, prioritise what matters most right now, and decide whether any small changes could strengthen your longterm plans.

Visit https://aib.ie/makea-plan to learn more about planning your financial future.

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Record animal welfare funding welcomed for Kilkenny and Carlow organisations

Local animal welfare organizations in Kilkenny and Carlow are poised to receive significant support following a record national funding announcement by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD. This historic allocation aims to strengthen the work of these groups, enhancing their capacity to care for animals and improve welfare standards across the region, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting local initiatives dedicated to animal protection and well-being.

A record €6,434,803 has been distributed to 94 animal welfare charities across the country through the Animal Welfare Grants Programme, marking the highest funding level ever awarded under this initiative. This unprecedented support highlights the commitment to animal welfare, providing vital resources to enhance care, protection, and wellbeing for animals nationwide, benefiting communities and charitable organizations alike.

Cllr Andrew McGuinness, Chairman of Kilkenny’s Animal Welfare Committee, welcomed the announcement, highlighting that the funding is especially important for organisations operating locally in Kilkenny and Carlow. He emphasized that this support will make a meaningful difference for groups working directly with animals, enabling them to continue and expand their vital work in the community.

“I’m delighted to see local organisations recognised for the extraordinary work they do every day,” he said. “This funding will

make a real difference to animal welfare in our communities.”

Among the successful local recipients are: • Irish Horse Rehoming Programme, County Carlow, which has been awarded €20,000 • Kilkenny SPCA, awarded €24,650 • A Dogs Life, Kilkenny, awarded €5,000 Councillor McGuinness said the funding was a deserved acknowledgment of the dedication shown by staff and volunteers, often in challenging circumstances.

“These organisations consistently go above and beyond,” he said. “They care for vulnerable animals, educate the public, promote responsible ownership and work tirelessly to ensure animals are given a second chance at life.”

He added that, in his role as Chair of Kilkenny’s Animal Welfare Committee, he sees firsthand the impact these groups have locally.

“The commitment shown by volunteers and staff is remarkable,” he said. “This funding recognises not just their compassion, but their proven track record in delivering positive outcomes for animal welfare.”

He concluded by welcoming the overall scale of the funding announcement.

“This record investment sends a strong message about the importance of animal welfare in Ireland,” he said. “I’m proud that organisations in Kilkenny and Carlow are playing such a positive role in setting standards nationally.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Seventy really can be the new 50 Auto-enrolment came in earlier this month, copperfastening pension contributions and drawing attention to that arbitrary line drawn across our later lives. There are around one thousand people every week in Ireland tumbling over that cliff edge called retirement. Currently there are a million of us in that ‘old’ bracket, and in 20 years that figure will double to one in every four of the population.

Reading the Government’s Future Forty scenarios, you would think that this changing demographic profile – i.e. all us oldies – is going to beggar the country as more of us age out of the labour force. There are dire predictions about the consequences of rising costs of pensions and health care, diminished services, and reduced living standards among them.

Well, sorry, I am not going to take that lying down on

a La-Z-Boy recliner like Independent TD Kenneth O’Flynn. For one thing, it prompted thoughts about positive ageing to cushion this demographic train smash, rather than being a burden on the State. In other words, how to be old?

This is a relatively new question. If I had been born a century ago, I might have expected to live 30 years less. Today, we are ageing differently and it’s a game we are still getting to grips with. Among people to ask the question, Nora Ephron wrote I Feel Bad About My Neck, her witty book about being a woman and ageing.

Lyn Slater’s book How to Be Old, written after she turned 60 and became an accidental influencer, was more prescriptive. “I don’t view each birthday as a lost year of youth but as a new stage of opportunity.”

Great, but a lot of her

content, like so much out there about growing older as a woman, has to do with appearance. In my book – the one I haven’t written yet – it has to do with so much more than that, especially the way that we think. Being positive has an amazing effect; optimists live longer, have better resistance to illness, and it doesn’t cost anything.

Staying active and involved has huge benefits too, and so does having something to live for – in other words, a purpose, whether great or small. I like the idea of living Boldly rather than oldly; putting that B in front conjures different connotations.

There is plenty we can do to take responsibility for ourselves, but what about the Government’s response to an incoming tide which was hardly unforeseen? The National Positive Ageing Strategy (2013–17) resulted in small changes, mainly

at community level. The Housing for All paper had just one page devoted to the needs of elders, while support for ageing in place is inadequate.

A few crumbs have been

“That’s because they can keep on keeping on

thrown to oldies, usually for expedient reasons. Working until 70 for those who wish (lessening pensioner numbers), a grant to divide homes into flats (helping to solve the housing crisis), and so on. But what about graduated retirement, retraining to keep skills updated, or strategies for helping to keep us happy, healthy, and socially connected?

What about the effect on older people of being repeatedly seen as a burden on the State? Trinity’s Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) found that older people who took negative views of ageing experienced a decline in physical and cognitive health. In other words, if you think old, you will be older.

Ian Robertson, Professor Emeritus of Psychology at TCD, says the theory that ageing is a process of inevitable mental decline is out of date. “It’s a virus which

Natural health trends for 2026

CLAIR WHITTY Every year there is a new trend or exciting new product in the natural health world. I wonder what we can expect to see in 2026? I did a little research and it looks like our gut health and digestive wellness will be one of the main areas of health concern and interest. This comes as no surprise to me as this is a common problem for many people. A healthy digestion is the route to a healthy body and

mind. Alongside more digestive supplements coming into our stores I expect to see more drinks and foods including snack bars with added fibre or pro and prebiotics added to them to support digestive health. If they do, keep an eye out for any hidden extras like too much sugars in its various forms.

Protein supplements are expected to continue to grow.

The awareness about the importance of protein for muscle support, recover and general wellness is growing. It is expected that there will be many more products available

affects our brain and leads us to underestimate our abilities. It’s an enormous waste of potential.”

A recent IMF study based on 41 countries showed that mental capacity has improved by 20 years in two decades. Seventy really is the new 50.

See off that ageist virus and there is no reason, if mature folk take responsibility for themselves and stay involved, active, and fit, why they can’t be Super Agers.

Ever notice the number of super agers there are among creative people? That’s because they can keep on keeping on. We need more flexible policy towards retirement and more positive attitudes, where the older generation can be seen as contributing – and they do, caring for grandchildren, volunteering, running businesses, and being creative – rather than as a burden. to us. But, be careful here too, read the labels, look for sugars, saturated fats and artificial additives. Yes, we need protein but not with all the hidden extras that are unfortunately in some foods.

I am glad to read that there will be continued growth in looking after your mental health and wellness. This is very important. Expect to see more foods and drinks that aim to support our mind balance.

You may see more drinks, teas, and bars with mushrooms like Reishi , magnesium, B Vitamins or Probiotics in them to support health. But, bear in mind that a healthy diet and lifestyle will go a long way to supporting your mental health and wellbeing too.

There is already a demand for clearer labels and cleaner products including food, supplements, and body care.

This trend will continue to grow. We are already seeing this, in particular in the growth in supplements with customers looking for brands without fillers, binders and any nasty ingredients.

Fish oil, Vitamin D, Protein, and Probiotic supplements are growing year on year. With continued research into these supplements and the areas of health that they support, it comes as no surprise that you will see plenty of choice on the shelves in 2026.

Let’s see what trends this year.

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

News Deep concern about access to children’s mental health services is one of the many worries of parents that comes across in Ireland’s first major research snapshot focused specifically on the experiences of parents of school-going children, which has just been released.

Published by Ireland’s leading online resource for parents and teachers, and marking its 20th anniversary, Schooldays.ie gathered responses from almost 2,000 parents nationwide.

The survey explores family finances, mental health, learning needs, exam reform, Irish as a compulsory subject, online safety, bullying, mobile phone ownership and parenting styles. The findings reveal a picture of engaged, collaborative parenting, but also highlight deep concern about access to children’s mental health services, the cost of raising a family and the impact of technology on young people.

Commenting on the publication of the report, Richard Murphy, owner of Schooldays. ie, said: “For 20 years, Schooldays.ie has been alongside parents as they navigate childhood and education. This survey was our opportunity to really listen to them – to capture what family life in Ireland feels like right now.

“What comes through very strongly is that parents are doing their very best: they are talking to their children about consent, bullying and mental health; they are striving for balanced, connected parenting in a world that is changing at speed. At the same time, the findings make it clear that families are under immense pressure – from long waits for assessments and mental health services to the rising cost of everyday life,” he said.

“It was important for us to run this survey so that parents have a clear point of reference, and so that schools, service providers and policymakers can see the realities behind the headlines. Our hope is that this report becomes a practical tool for parents and a catalyst for better supports for families across Ireland.”

Key findings from the survey • Positive, balanced parenting: Around 80% of parents describe their parenting style as “balanced”, with almost 77% saying they typically discipline by talking things through rather than using punishment.

• Family connection at mealtimes: Almost half of families eat dinner together every day, with a further 40% doing so a few times a week.

• Special educational needs and assessments: 28% of parents report that their child has been assessed for specialist educational needs, yet only 8% rate the assessment and support process as excellent, reflecting ongoing concerns about access and waiting times.

• Mental health needs are widespread – and services are stretched: Almost a third (over

What parents worry about Rising concern over children’s mental health, cost of living and digital life 27%) of parents say their child has needed mental health services such as counselling or psychiatric support.

Of those who used services, 58.7% rated their experience of accessing help as poor or terrible, and more than 61% report waiting six months or longer.

• Digital life and mobiles: The majority of parents believe the ideal age for a first mobile phone is 11–15, with more than half (55%) selecting 13 as the appropriate age. Most children who own phones are in the older age groups, yet many younger children are active on other internet-connected devices such as tablets and games consoles.

• Talking about bullying and consent: Most parents report having conversations with their children about bullying and consent, but a third (34%) have not yet discussed alcohol or drugs, despite widespread access to information and peer influence.

• Phones in schools: A majority of parents support restrictions or outright bans on phones during the school day, seeing school as a vital opportunity for children to disconnect from social media and focus on learning and face-to-face friendships.

• Irish as a compulsory

subject: More than half (56.4%) of parents support Irish remaining compulsory for all students, with further support for compulsory Irish up to Junior Certificate level.

When combined, around three-quarters of parents favour their children learning Irish for most of their schooling.

• Family finances under pressure: 22.6% of households say they are struggling financially, underlining the impact of rising costs for housing, food, energy, childcare and educational extras such as grinds.

• Appetite for exam reform: Parents express strong interest in reforms to the Junior and Leaving Cert, including more continuous assessment, less high-stakes exam pressure and a fairer points system for students with additional needs or neurodiversity.

Expert reactions to the findings The report includes commentary from leading experts in education, mental health, parenting, online safety and social policy, who set the findings in context and highlight where change is most urgently needed.

Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Emma Beatty says the data on mental

health reflect what professionals are seeing on the ground: “The fact that over a quarter of parents report their child has needed mental health support underlines that these difficulties are now widespread, not exceptional.

“What is particularly worrying is that nearly six in ten parents describe their experience of accessing services as poor or terrible, with many waiting more than six months.

Early, community-based support can stop problems escalating, but only if families can actually reach it. These findings are a clear call for investment right across the system – from primary care services and school supports to specialist teams like CAMHS.” Psychologist and parenting expert Dr Mary O’Kane

welcomed the move towards balanced, connected parenting: “These results suggest we have moved well beyond parenting through fear and towards parenting through connection. Most parents see themselves as balanced and are using conversation rather than physical punishment, which we know is linked to better emotional and social outcomes for children.

“I am also heartened by how many families are still sharing regular meals together. Sitting around the table may seem simple, but it plays a powerful role in building communication skills, resilience and a strong sense of belonging.”

TASC social inclusion researcher Dr Sara Singleton noted that financial stress was a consistent theme: “When over one in five households

WHOM THE SURVEY SERVES The Parents of Ireland Survey 2026 brings its findings together in a clear, accessible report designed to: • Give parents a benchmark to see how their own experiences compare with national trends; • Provide schools and educators with insight into what families are managing at home; • Support journalists and policymakers with robust, parentcentred data on core issues such as mental health, cost of living, online safety, exam reform and the role of Irish in the curriculum.

tell us they are struggling financially, it reflects what we are hearing right across the country. Parents are trying to keep food on the table, pay rising bills and cover education costs, often while juggling insecure work and childcare that feels like a second mortgage.

“Surveys like this are vital because they turn individual stress into visible social patterns – they show that families are not failing, but that systems and services are failing to keep pace with the reality of parenting in Ireland today.”

Stephanie Regan, Clinical Psychotherapist, said: “This survey shows parents in Ireland are highly engaged and leaning towards balanced, connected parenting, with open conversations about bullying, consent and online behaviour. At the same time, it highlights real concern about children’s digital lives, with more than half of parents believing 13 is the right age for a first mobile. These insights give a clear snapshot of family life today and the pressures parents are navigating.” *The full report, including charts, expert commentary and practical tips for parents, is available from www. schooldays.ie.

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News

SETU’s Urlingford hub leads rural innovation across the South East

Photo Credit:- Patrick Browne Urlingford Launch Professor Marie Claire Van Hout, SETU Vice President Research, Innovation and Impact, Professor Veronica Campbell, SETU President, Cllr Mary Hilda Kavanagh, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Jennifer Murnane O' Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health, Aileen McGrath, Kilkenny Local Enterprise Office, and Brian Ogilvie, SETU Head of Entrepreneurship and Rural Engagement, Ian Campbell, SETU Rural Business Development Manager, with members of the Urlingford Town Team

South East Technological University (SETU) is celebrating a year of transformative progress in research, innovation, and enterprise engagement, with the Urlingford hub

in Co. Kilkenny emerging as a flagship for rural innovation. Part of the TU RISE – TU Research and Innovation Supporting Enterprise – initiative, the Urlingford hub provides

modern workspace, training, and pathways for entrepreneurs, start-ups, SMEs, and community groups to collaborate directly with SETU researchers.

The hub is helping rural communities access the same opportunities available in urban centres, supporting idea development, prototype testing, and connections with

the wider regional innovation ecosystem. By working closely with local town teams, the Local Enterprise Office network, and local authorities, the Urlingford hub is fostering long-term economic growth and innovation in the region.

The Urlingford hub is one of four rural innovation hubs launched by SETU in 2025, alongside Hacketstown, Dungarvan, and Rosslare. Each hub, part-funded through TU RISE, is strategically designed to enable collaboration between researchers and enterprises while strengthening innovation outside urban centres.

In addition to the hub network, SETU launched ten postdoctoral research projects in partnership with industry, addressing challenges in advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, sustainability, health technologies, and the bioeconomy. Ten sabbaticals for senior researchers facilitated deeper engagement with enterprise partners, supporting exploratory research, prototype development, and early-stage innovation that is now developing into longerterm collaborations.

More than ten regional

enterprises also participated in the TU RISE PhD Scholarships Scheme, embedding doctoral researchers within industry for 12 months to tackle real-world challenges.

Beyond these individual projects, TU RISE is enhancing SETU’s overall research environment through strategic investments in equipment, training, and systems aligned with the University’s seven strategic research themes.

Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, said, “The Urlingford hub demonstrates how regional investment in research and innovation can transform local communities. TU RISE is helping enterprises, researchers, and communities thrive across the south east, and Urlingford is a shining example of what is possible.”

Prof Marie Claire Van Hout, Vice President for Research, Innovation and Impact, added, “Hubs like Urlingford show the power of collaboration between universities and enterprise. They are enabling the south east to innovate, adapt, and build resilience, creating opportunities that will continue to grow in the years ahead.”

Looking ahead to 2026, SETU plans to further expand TU RISE, deepen enterprise engagement, and support research with meaningful regional impact, with the Urlingford hub leading the way as a centre of rural innovation and collaboration.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Another year of living dangerously As the dust settles on 2025, the Irish economy stands out as one of the brightest spots in a turbulent global landscape.

Defying early fears of trouble from US President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, the country recorded exceptional growth, record foreign direct investment (FDI), and buoyant corporate tax revenues.

Yet persistent domestic challenges, particularly in housing and infrastructure, underscored the need for urgent reforms to sustain this momentum.

The year started with widespread anxiety over Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff announcements in April. He threatened sweeping import taxes on EU goods. Analysts warned of potential job losses, reduced investment, and a hit to Ireland’s vital pharma and tech exports to the US. However, negotiated exemptions—most notably for

pharmaceuticals—and frontloading of exports in the first half of the year cushioned the blow.

Headline GDP surged by around 10.7–11 per cent, according to forecasts from the European Commission, the Department of Finance, and

banks like AIB and Bank of Ireland, making Ireland the fastest-growing advanced economy globally. This was largely driven by multinational activity, with pharmaceutical exports stockpiled ahead of tariffs creating a temporary bubble.

But modified domestic demand, a better gauge of underlying activity, grew more modestly at 3–3.4 per cent.

This was supported by strong consumer spending, low unemployment, and a robust labour market.

Corporate tax receipts hit new records, mainly from a handful of multinationals, giving significant budget surpluses. IDA Ireland reported another notable year for FDI, underscoring Ireland’s appeal despite geopolitical risks.

Sectors like aviation, with Ryanair posting high-flying profits, emerged as winners in a “year of living dangerously”.

Critics, however, cautioned that much of this growth is distorted by multinational profit-shifting and intellectual property transactions. Headline figures mask vulnerabilities, for example over-reliance on a narrow tax base and exposure to US policy shifts. As export front-loading unwinds,

GDP is projected to moderate sharply in 2026, potentially to near zero, highlighting the volatility of the Irish model.

Domestically, the housing crisis remained a stark failure.

Completions fell short of targets, with starts plummeting in early 2025 amid construction slowdowns.

Prices rose by around 7.5 per cent, aggravating affordability issues. Broader infrastructure bottlenecks, from energy grids to water services, continued to hamper progress, with population growth outpacing development.

In response, the government unveiled ambitious plans late in the year: a push to deliver 300,000 homes by 2030, backed by billions in infrastructure funding, and measures to accelerate major projects through planning reforms and emergency powers. Business leaders welcomed the focus on unblocking delays but stressed the

need for bolder support for indigenous firms and diversification beyond FDI. Employment hit all-time highs, but signs of cooling emerged in the tech area. Inflation eased, and public finances remained robust. This allowed room for investment in ageing population costs, climate goals, and housing.

Looking to 2026, risks continue to loom large: tariff threats, global slowdowns, and domestic supply constraints. Yet 2025 proved Ireland’s strength. The challenge now is translating financial windfalls into tangible progress—fix infrastructure, boost indigenous enterprise, and finally tackle the housing shortfall. If this can be achieved, it should secure a balanced, sustainable economy in the uncertain world of 2026. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 150

"Who thinks they are in control?"

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

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News

Highly successful Hare’s Corner biodiversity project open for applications as it becomes available in Kilkenny for first time

• Applications close on January 18th • Project created 1,600 habitats for biodiversity around Ireland in 2025 Applications are open for The Hare’s Corner, an innovative biodiversity initiative developed

by Burrenbeo Trust, a registered Charity, which is coming to Kilkenny for the first time this year.

Landowners, schools and community groups in Kilkenny are invited to apply for support in the creation of wildlife ponds, mini-woodlands, hedgerows, mini-orchards and plans for nature on their land through the initiative, which takes its name from the old farming expression for an awkward section of a field which wasn’t intensively farmed and was therefore left to nature.

Kilkenny is one of nine counties involved in The Hare’s Corner project this year, with the others

being Limerick, Offaly, Donegal, Monaghan, Kerry, Sligo, Louth and Wexford. Applications close on Sunday, January 18th and anyone interested in availing of the supports can apply via a simple online application form at www. theharescorner.ie.

Last year, the highly successful project marked its fifth anniversary by creating 1,600 habitats for biodiversity in six counties around Ireland.

The ‘menu’ of supports available from The Hare’s Corner includes – a mini-woodland (a mix of 50 native trees and advice), a wildlife hedge (a mix of 50 native trees and advice), a heritage orchard (5 heritage apple trees and advice), a wildlife pond (hydrologist advice

and some expenses towards machinery costs), and a ‘Plan for Nature’ (a visit and advice from a trained Hare’s Corner advisor on how to enhance nature on your site). For more info on the supports and eligibility criteria please visit https://theharescorner.ie/ supports/.

The website also offers practical tips, infographics and short videos aimed at helping people to create their own Hare’s Corners and helpful monthly ‘Hare’s Corner Clinics’ are available online for anyone with practical questions on caring for nature.

The Hare’s Corner in 2026 is being funded through a combination of public and private sector funding, including

the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Local Biodiversity Action Fund, and is an action of the National Biodiversity Action Plan 2023 – 2030. Private funders include SSE Generation Green Community Fund, NTR PLC, Greencoat Renewables PLC, ESB and Intact Insurance. The project is also grateful for the partnership with The Heritage Council’s Biodiversity Officer Programme, which is enabling biodiversity officers in each of the nine counties to provide ground support for the initiative, as well as to the Life’s2Good Foundation for their key support.

The initiative is coordinated by the Burren-based Burrenbeo Trust, a registered Charity that supports people to take positive action for their local landscapes. Its flagship programmes – ‘Farming for Nature’, ‘Heritage Keepers’ and ‘The Hare’s Corner’ – initiated in and inspired by the Burren, are spreading across the country due to their proven efficacy and demand.

Ultimately, the project plans to go nationwide and welcomes interest from private and public funders to help achieve this. It is also interested in hearing from ecologists and hydrologists who have hands-on experience of working with people and nature and who would like to join The Hare’s Corner team as freelance advisors in their own counties.

Lee Worrell, The Hare’s Corner Coordinator, says: “We are delighted to be in Kilkenny for the first time in 2026. It has been heartening for us to see the amount of interest The Hare’s Corner generates up and down the country. We genuinely believe that these small, tangible actions for nature can have the collective impact that we need to turn the tide on biodiversity loss while also contributing to climate resilience and the wellbeing of participants.

Our hope is that The Hare’s Corner will reach every county in Ireland, and we would welcome new sponsors and partners interested in helping us to keep growing the reach of The Hare’s Corner.”

Bernadette Moloney, Biodiversity Officer, Kilkenny County Council, says: “We are delighted to partner with The Hare’s Corner project this year.

When the public were consulted as part of the preparation of the Kilkenny Biodiversity Action Plan, this type of initiative was suggested.

Kilkenny County Council is delighted to secure this collaboration with the Burrenbeo Trust as it aligns with Action 6.5 of the Kilkenny Biodiversity Action Plan 2025-2030 providing people with assistance to increase the biodiversity value of their land with the Hare’s Corner team providing the encouragement, advice and micro-funding to do it.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Christmas lunch The Newpark community came together in the spirit of Christmas cheer on Saturday, 13 December, as locals gathered for the annual community lunch.

The festive event, held at the Glendine Inn, saw residents come together to enjoy a traditional Christmas meal. The lunch was a chance for the community to connect, share stories, and have fun with friends and neighbours.

Community Spirit “This is what Christmas is all about – community, kindness and good company,” said Jack Fahy, Chair of the Residents’ Association. “It’s wonderful to see so many familiar faces, and some new ones too. We’re grateful to the organising committee for their time, effort and commitment, which made this day such a success.”

Laughter and Warmth “It was a fantastic day, full of laughter and warmth,” said attendee

Donie Phelan. “It’s great to see the community come together like this.

We owe the Residents’ Committee a major debt of gratitude for continuing to strengthen neighbourhood bonds and promoting an inclusive sense of community.”

Five in a Row As the Seán Shortis Big Band provided the aprèslunch entertainment, there was great excitement as the judges of the ‘Best Christmas Jumper’ competition announced Frankie Kavanagh as the winner. This triumph ensured Frankie’s ‘five in a row’. Frankie’s year of preparation certainly paid off.

Annual Tradition The Christmas community lunch has become a beloved annual tradition, and the 2025 event did not disappoint. Mark your calendars for next year – it’ll be here before you know it!

Community spirit Newpark Christm

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

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Christmas lunch

shines at as lunch

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Happiness ... and listening to your heart You know those self-help publications and soppy little books of wise quotations that populate the shelves of our book stores this time of year?

Well I love them. I collect them. Not alone do I collect them but friends give them to me – usually as a Christmas present.

And God knows I need them (as my friends obviously know). Problem is, I never get round to reading them. What I need now is a self-help book to help me read the self-help books that I’ve accumulated.

But sure I mightn’t read that either. That said this being January – the start of a new year and new beginnings – I scanned those little books of quotations and offer you a selection of some of those quotations and observations.

So, sit yourself down, pour yourself a drop of something (that’s if you’re not off the drink for the New Year) as you peruse this wee compilation

silently forever waiting, forever hoping that one day we shall remember it.” (Athey Thompson, writer)

of words of wisdom some of which you may have come across before but are worth coming across again.

“Friendship is when people know all about you – but like you anyway” (Anonymous) *************** “What lies behind us, and lies before us, are small matters, compared to what lies within us” (Ralph Waldo Emerson) *************** “Too often we underestimate

the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” (Leo Buscaglia, American author) *************** “If you’re going through hell, keep going.” (Winston Churchill) *************** “And when we grow up we must never forget that hidden down deep within us is our forever inner child resting,

*************** “Happiness is like a butterfly: the more you chase it the more it will elude you but if you turn your attention to other things, it will come and sit softly on your shoulder.” (Henry David Thoreau) *************** “Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly.” (Anonymous) *************** “To laugh often and much, to win the respect of people and the affection of children, to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends, to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a better place, whether

by a healthy child, a garden patch, to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” (Emerson) *************** “How silent the woods would be if only the best birds sang.”

(Henry Van Dyke) *************** “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?”

(Anonymous) *************** “May the sun bring you new energy by day, may the moon softly restore you by night, may the rain wash away your worries, may the breeze blow new strength into your being, may you walk gently through the world and know its beauty all the days of your life.”

(Apache blessing) *************** “It’s not the years in your life

that count. It’s the life in your years.” (Abraham Lincoln) *************** “For a long time it seemed to me that life was about to begin – real life – but there was always some obstacle in the way, something to be gotten through first, some unfinished business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid.

At last it dawned on me that these obstacles were my life, this perspective has helped me to see there is no way to happiness. Happiness is the way.

So treasure every moment you have and remember that time waits for no one.” (Souza, American author) *************** “It is never too late to be what you might have been.” (George Eliot) *************** “Listen to your heart above all other voices.” (Marta Kagan)

Pranic Healing Pranic Healing is a nontouch, complimentary energy healing system. It is based on the principle that the physical body has an innate ability to heal itself, and this process can be accelerated by using prana (life force energy) to balance, harmonize, and transform the body’s energy process, accelerating its natural ability to heal itself.

It was discovered by Grandmaster Choa Kok Sui in the late 20th century.

Grandmaster Choa Kok Sui is the founder of Modern Pranic Healing & Arhatic Yoga.

Prana is a Sanskrit word meaning “life force” or “vital energy”. Similar to “Chi” in Chinese medicine or “Ki” in Japanese, it is the invisible bio-energy that keeps the body alive and healthy. This energy flows through our energy field or aura that surrounds and interpenetrates the physical body, as well as through

energy centres called chakras, receiving energy from the surroundings and expelling used energy back into the surroundings.

With Pranic Healing Level 1, you achieve a practical understanding of your energy body and learn to use scanning and sweeping to cleanse congested energy,

then energize with fresh prana. This enables you to heal yourself and others for conditions such as headaches, aches, burns, stress, and many more.

Try Pranic Healing with an open mind and see for yourself its benefits.

If you are interested in learning Pranic Healing, why not join us at the Pembroke Hotel in Kilkenny, Saturday and Sunday, 31st January & 1st February 2026, from 9:00am to 5:30pm, for Level 1 Pranic Healing.

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News

Kilkenny farm leader welcomes Government confirmation that Ireland will vote against Mercosur "The right decision both economically and environmentally" The President of ICMSA and Dunbell farmer, Denis Drennan, said that the Government’s decision that Ireland would vote against

the Mercosur Agreement was the right decision on both economic and environmental grounds. Mr. Drennan said that there were certain

occasions and circumstances in which basic principles of fairness and consistency had to override hype and arm-twisting and opposing

Mercosur was precisely one of those occasions.

“The Government left it very late, but has come down on the right side of what is

a head-to-head between fundamental principles of fairness and consistency and the kind of slippery expediency that seems to be the

dominant approach in far too many situations now. ICMSA and Irish farmers in general have never been against fair trade; the point is that – as regards food and particularly beef – the agreement with the Mercosur was not and could not be fair. We have no way of ensuring that the beef that would be imported into the EU under the agreement would be of the same standards of traceability and environmentally sustainable production that the EU insists upon for its own farmers. And we know from long experience that the authorities in Mercosur countries are unable or unwilling to enforce even their existing standards and regulations.

That leaves us with the EU forcing its own farmers to compete against cheaper substandard beef produced off an environmentally destructive system that is the direct opposite of the farming system that has been painstakingly introduced onto EU farms over the last 20 years.

That was a hypocrisy too far and ICMSA welcomes the Irish Government’s belated recognition of that fact.

In the event of the deal being voted through by other Member States tomorrow, Mr Drennan said the focus must switch to the EU Parliament and Ireland should work with MEPS from other Member States who share our commitment to basic fairness and consistency to block the deal.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Burnout: Life overloads you!

I hope that everyone has had a good rest over the holidays.

However, I am not foolish enough to think that this is the case for all. For many people Christmas and New Year can be simply exhausting if you’ve been juggling family, work and all that goes on in the home. This time of year, when it’s dark and cold should be a time of rest and recouperation but for many it’s a real challenge especially if you’ve been pushing yourself.

Many people are living with chronic tiredness and never get the opportunity to catch up with themselves and festive holidays can simply increase this feeling.

When chronic tiredness is the situation, the person may be dealing with overload at many levels and may result in the subsequent, ‘Burn Out’.

This is a term which has been bandied around but what does it really mean?

‘Burn Out’ is not simply

temporary stress. It’s a longer and deeper state of prolonged, mental, physical and emotional exhaustion.

Some stress is healthy, e.g. Planning a wedding is positive and has an end date.

Some stress is unhealthy and seemingly has no end in sight. It feels that life is like a treadmill with no way to stop. e.g. Caring for a dependent person, raising a family with little support … these issues are challenging enough but add to the mix , today’s hectic pace of life: mobile phones, computers, social media, deadlines, juggling the kids, the relationship, the mortgage, teens, older parents and perhaps menopause as well etc. This constant overload can result in overwhelming feelings of helplessness, hopelessness, constant tiredness, lack of energy, no motivation, feeling trapped, etc which in turn can lead to anxiety, depression, mood

swings etc which in turn leads to physical symptoms e.g. sleep disturbance, aches and pains etc. low immunity to colds and generally compromised health.

Sometimes when feeling low we think that the answer might be diet or to start an exercise programme to try to generate some energy… but in my opinion this is not the correct road to go down.

When one is really overloaded the answer is complete rest which can allow the whole body to regulate.

A short break may be a very short-term solution but it will not raise your energy levels in any significant way. Think of your bank balance… It’s as if the whole body is completely “energy overdrawn” and you are seriously “in the red”. A little break may put a little reserve in your bank but you will quickly spend it and go back into the red.

As the cardiologist I worked

for used to say, “It’s like patching someone up and then sending them back into the front line!” and is not a long-term solution and some kind of breakdown becomes inevitable.

So, what might be an answer?

Are there any support

“Burnout happens when life demands more than energy

systems out there that can be activated? Sometimes, pride stops us from asking for help, or we see asking for it as a weakness and that we must carry on regardless.

Remember, pride comes before a fall!

Maybe we need to communicate better. Do others really know the toll that your current situation is taking on you or are you putting on a brave face?

Asking for help is actually a sign of strength rather than weakness. Remember, other people are not mind readers!

Are there things that you can do to be more time efficient and get valuable time for yourself? I find that making daily lists help me stay focussed and saves time.

Eliminate things that increase your stress e.g.

Listening to bad news and not entertaining things and people who rob your energy.

Eat proper good nourishing

food, stay well hydrated, go to bed early, get out in the fresh air. Good habits are important self help tools we can all use; as well of course being aware of your breathing.

When stressed, the breathing becomes shallow and more rapid than usual. It’s important to slow it down and deepen it. This can be done anywhere, anytime, anyplace.

If you are really struggling with your energy levels, maybe you need some emotional support e.g. some counselling to help you to express your feelings. Not expressing feelings takes a lot of energy and can increase tiredness. Suppression leads to depression and has a downhill trajectory.

Try to slow down, quite literally, slow down…With some understanding we can always take back a little control. Consciously making changes, however small can start to make a difference.

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Health & Beauty Formula recall alert for Kilkenny families

Beauty that feels good

ArthurHidden

BEAUTY

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HEALTH Parents and carers across County Kilkenny are being asked to check their cupboards following a precautionary recall of a number of infant and follow-on formula products sold nationwide.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has confirmed that Nestlé is voluntarily recalling specific batches of SMA infant formula due to the possible presence of a toxin called cereulide. Officials stressed that the move is precautionary and that no illnesses have been reported in Kilkenny or elsewhere.

Cereulide is a toxin that can cause food poisoning. While the risk is considered low, symptoms may include nausea

and vomiting, usually within a few hours, and typically last less than a day.

Parents are advised not to use the affected products and not to feed them to infants or young children. The recall covers a range of SMA products, including infant, follow-on and specialist formulas, identified by specific batch codes and expiry dates (see below).

Batch codes can be found on the base of tins or cartons, or on the packaging of ready-to-feed products.

The FSAI said that if a child shows no symptoms, no further action is needed. Anyone concerned about their child’s health should contact their GP or public health nurse.

Nestlé has apologised and is advising customers to contact

Staying active indoors EXERCISE Staying active doesn’t have to mean heading out in bad weather or signing up for a gym. According to the HSE, regular exercise is important at every stage of life – and for older people in Kilkenny, even small amounts of daily movement can make a real difference to health, confidence and independence.

Cold or wet days can make it harder to get motivated, particularly during the winter months, but exercise can be done almost anywhere, including in the comfort of your own home. Anything that gets you moving counts, and the key is to start slowly and set goals that feel achievable.

The HSE recommends that older people aim to be active

every day, focusing on three main areas: aerobic exercise, muscle strength and balance.

Aerobic activity helps keep the heart healthy and can be as simple as walking around the house or garden, dancing to music, or gently marching on the spot during television ad breaks.

Building muscle strength helps with everyday tasks such as carrying shopping, standing up from a chair or climbing stairs. Light hand-weight exercises, step-ups using a sturdy step or gentle yoga can all be done safely at home a couple of times a week.

Balance exercises are also important, as they help reduce the risk of falls. Simple movements, such as standing on one leg while holding onto a chair or slowly rising from a seated

its Careline on 1800 931 832 for further information.

Infant formula recall – affected products SMA Advanced First Infant Milk (800g) Batch: 51450742F1 – Exp: May 2027 SMA Advanced Follow-on Milk (800g) Batches: 51240742F2 (May 2027); 51890742F2 (Aug 2027) SMA Comfort (800g) Batch: 52620742F3 – Exp: Sep 2027 SMA First Infant Milk (200ml) Batches: 53070295M, 52860295M, 52870295M

(Oct–Nov 2026); 53220295M, 53230295M (Nov 2026) SMA First Infant Milk (800g) Batches: 51590346AB (Jun 2027); 52750346AE (Oct 2027) SMA GOLD PREM 2 (800g) Batch: 53090742F2 – Exp: Nov 2027 SMA Little Steps First Infant Milk (800g) Batch: 51540346AD – Exp: Jun 2027 SMA Alfamino (400g) Batches: 51200017Y3 (Apr 2027); 51210017Y1 (Jan 2027); 51250017Y1 (May 2027); 51460017Y1 (Oct 2027); 51710017Y1 (Jun 2027)

Beauty routines are becoming less about perfection and more about how they make us feel, according to new global research on beauty and personal care trends.

Instead of chasing the latest miracle product or copying what works for someone else, more people are choosing skincare and treatments that suit their own needs, lifestyle and mood. The idea is simple: what works for one person won’t necessarily work for another.

Personalised beauty is expected to grow, with products and treatments designed around the individual rather than a “one size fits all” approach. In the future, skincare may focus just as much on supporting overall wellbeing as it does on improving how skin looks on the surface.

There is also a growing appreciation for the experience itself.

Beauty routines are becoming moments of calm in busy lives, whether that’s taking time with a skincare ritual at home or enjoying a relaxing treatment. Texture, scent and atmosphere all play a part, helping people switch off and feel more balanced.

Another noticeable change is a move away from unrealistic beauty standards. After years of filters and flawless images online, many consumers are embracing something more real. They value honesty, skill and care over airbrushed results.

For everyday beauty lovers, this shift is reassuring. It’s less about trying to look perfect and more about feeling good, comfortable and confident in your own skin - which, for many, is what beauty should be about in the first place.

Shaving without the pain Pressfoto

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SKINCARE

position, can improve stability over time.

Even daily routines like

cooking, tidying up or light housework help break up long periods of sitting.

Skip dry shaving - always wet your face first. Apply a hydrating shaving cream and let it sit briefly to soften hairs. Use a sharp razor and rinse often. After shaving, splash with cool water and apply an alcohol-free balm to calm redness. For extra smoothness, exfoliate 1–2 times a week to prevent ingrown hairs and keep skin clear and healthy. Simple steps, big difference.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

The Neighbourhood hall

The Neighbou where enjoyme is the priority jbsphotos For the last three years, Steve Nolan has been putting on two sing-along events a year – one in the summer and one in the winter – tailored for an age-friendly audience and aimed at incorporating all the groups he works with.

Steve is Project Co-ordinator at The Neighbourhood Hall in the Butts.

And there are quite a few groups: A.B.I.I. (Acquired Brain Injury Ireland), Kilkenny Women’s Group (a social group for senior ladies), Connect Café (a social group for multinationals to connect and create arts and crafts), and two fledgling art collectives which have nested in the building, Art with Graham (Carew) and From Acorns to Oaks, facilitated by Alice Bennett.

The Kilkenny Observer made its way to The Neighbourhood Hall towards the end of December for what was billed as a sing-along of Christmas songs. Project organiser at the centre, Steve Nolan, didn’t put a tooth in it. “There’s no big secret,” he explained. “It does exactly what it says on the tin. You come along, and the only criteria is that you have a bit of fun, relax and enjoy the day.” And that is exactly what happened. The 40-plus attendance sang – and then sang some more.

The songs were selected by the Women’s Group as their favourites, including ‘Do You Hear What I Hear’, ‘Away in a Manger’, ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’, ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’, and many more.

Then there were Christmas cards and candles handed out, and it is doubtful that anybody left without one or the other.

The Christmas cards handed out were handmade by the Women’s Group and then mass-produced at the hall. The candles were made by Steve Nolan and volunteers Dami, Esther and Ayo, who took people’s old candles, melted them down and re-moulded them. Martin O’Reilly and Carmel Cashin supplied the music, and what a terrific job they did.

During the year, A.B.I.I. wanted to write a song as a project and, along with Steve, they workshopped for a few weeks and, using their ideas, wrote a parody of ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas’ so that it fitted in with their theme and everyone could feel part of something special. The manager at The Neighbourhood Hall, Jenny, named the show Elastoplast in reference to Band Aid, and the plan was for all the members of A.B.I.I. to dress up as their favourite 80s musicians. They were to perform the song live for the audience but a sudden untimely passing within the group meant that they couldn't attend.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Opinion

Recreation in Old Callan House party musician Statia Durney with Paddy Walsh

Part four

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Peter Roughan, the local newspaper columnist, wrote a lot about the Waltons…one of the long-established families in Callan. Larry Walton was in America at the time that Peter wrote his weekly Callan Man looks Back column.

But Larry’s name never failed to come up in fireside conversations back in his native Callan whenever his family’s thoughts strayed to past events and sad or happy memories of days gone by.

He was in his late seventies when Peter wrote of "Walton’s Kitchen that had a Welcome for all."

Peter passed on best wishes to Larry’s two sisters in Callan: Margaret Griffin and Mayshe McCormack, wife of the postman John.

Their parents, Patsy Walton and his wife had reared a large family "beyond the Big Bridge": Eight girls and three boys. They occupied one of the liveliest and happiest homes in town. Patsy was a tailor in the early part of the century. The profession was very different from what it is today.

They had to work day and night to produce swallowtail coats, riding breeches, double-breasted waistcoats, bell-bottomed trousers, Norfolk jackets, and velvet-collared overcoats. Patsy could

be seen at just about any hour through the big window of his house, with his three or four assistants, at the board where most of the tailoring work was done.

And his wife was always busy too, as one of Callan’s shirt-makers; a hand trade now consigned to history.

There was a constant stream of callers to the house, and not just for business purposes. It was a hive of chat and friendly banter, even after all the children had grown up and scattered to the four winds. Patsy Walton made it clear that there was always a welcome at his door for every

Johnny Walsh of Mill Street in 1911

man and woman. "Come in" he would say "sit down and take the weight off your feet, and what’ll ya have?"

Peter Roughan loved tracing the whereabouts of Callan families and their offspring.

He recalled that Patsy Walton’s three sons were Ned, Larry, and Palla. All three emigrated to the USA at a young age.

Of the eight girls, five left for America. Lil, Annie, Margaret, Bridget, and Baby-Joe. Margaret married Ned Griffin, a plasterer, while in the USA and the couple returned to Ireland to live in West Street, Callan.

T Comerford with Ford Lorry 1928

Two other sisters, Nellie and Mollie Walton, stayed in Ireland. Nellie married Joe Dunne and became one of the best dressmakers Callan had ever known. Her shop was in Jimmy Landy’s old house near the Green Street pump. She had the gift

of the gab as well as being a dab hand with the sewing needle.

According to Peter Roughan, she could polish off even the saddest tale with a funny or humorous ending. She always looked on the bright side of

life…even when, as was often the case in those depressed times, there was no apparent bright side to look at!

Her favourite subject of reminiscence was the dancing at the Little Commons. It had involved many a merry tale of love and romance.

Mollie Walton married a Mr. Payne and managed a hotel in Clonmel. She never lost touch with Callan, choosing to spend her holidays there, a habit many in the town failed to understand as they longed to leave it and never come back…such were the demands of life in an era when the country was an economic wasteland.

Mollie was an accomplished dancer… "As light as a feather in your arms" was an oftrepeated compliment to her.

May- or Mayshe as she was better known- was the youngest of the Walton girls.

She never left Ireland and was fond of telling stories of her youth and girlhood into her old age. Always cheerful, she communicated that happy feeling to anyone she had dealings with.

In particular, she recalled a time in her childhood when the Walton kitchen was never empty in the evenings.

Neighbours young and old were forever in the house for a chat.

Boys and girls from the same street and other parts of town called in: the Dunphys, the Kealys, the Mahony’s, the Canavans, the Joyces, the Holdens and the Fogertys… among others.

Mayshe remembered that when the young fellows from Kilbricken couldn’t hang around O’ Regan’s corner on a wet night, they would stand in the hallway of Walton’s house, sometimes shivering with the cold, and make their plans for the following day.

Mayshe’s husband, John McCormack, came from Kilmanagh and served as postman for many years.

He always started a good joke; or a story; with "Begob, you Sir I’m going to tell you something" and then had you listening intently to whatever he had to say.

The descendants of the Walton clan are today scattered across Ireland, Britain, and America. But they have never forgotten their proud lineage, and, thanks to Peter Roughan, can imagine the laughter and the happy faces of the children their grandparents and great-grandparents once were.

They filled the streets and homes of the town with colour and excitement…in a Callan that has faded from memory.

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Homes & Gardens Winter care pvproductions

A City home with Castle views

GARDEN NOTES Frosty days call for light work. Clear away fallen branches after storms and check fences for wind damage. In the veg patch, dig over bare soil if conditions allow, adding compost to enrich it. Sow broad beans in pots under cover for an early crop. Clean greenhouse glass to maximise winter light. Start planning your flower displays - sweet peas, for instance, can be sown now indoors for strong spring plants.

Quick room refreshes Freepik

HOME HACK You don’t need a full renovation to give a room a fresh feel, a few simple updates can transform your space for the New Year. Start with soft furnishings: swap out cushions, throws or curtains for new colours or textures to brighten a living room or bedroom.

Lighting makes a big difference, too. Add a table lamp, floor lamp or string lights to create warmth and highlight corners that feel dark or neglected. Even changing bulbs to warmer, daylight-style tones can lift the mood instantly.

Another easy trick is to move furniture around. Shifting a sofa, desk or bed slightly can open up the room and create a sense of space.

Finally, small decorative touches like indoor plants, framed prints or a tidy shelf display make rooms feel curated without effort. Simple changes like these make your home feel fresher and more welcoming for the year ahead.

CLADDAGH, CASTLE GARDENS, KILKENNY | €950,000 | 4 BED | 3 BATH | 219 SQM HOUSE OF THE WEEK Hidden behind the high stone walls of Kilkenny Castle’s former kitchen gardens, Claddagh, Castle Gardens enjoys one of those rare city locations that people quietly dream about. Set off Castle Road, directly opposite the Castle Park, the house is just a short stroll from the High Street, yet feels calm and tucked away from the pace of everyday city life.

Castle Gardens is a small and much-admired enclave of just 18 houses, built in the

1950s and 1960s on land that once formed part of the castle’s working gardens. Sheltered by 18th-century stone walls, homes here rarely come up for sale.

Claddagh sits on around 0.2 acres of mature, landscaped gardens, with a driveway leading up to the house. Despite being in the heart of the city, the garden feels private and established, with the added bonus of views towards Kilkenny Castle.

Inside, the house extends to approximately 219 sqm

and has the solid proportions typical of its era. A spacious entrance hall sets the tone, opening into a bright reception room. The ground floor offers several living spaces, giving flexibility for family life, working from home or entertaining. The main sitting room is south-facing and centred around an open fire, while additional rooms could serve equally well as a snug, study or playroom. The kitchen and utility areas sit alongside a dining room, and there are two bathrooms at ground

level.

Upstairs, there are four bedrooms and a family bathroom.

The layout and the size of the site provide clear potential to rework and upgrade the house to suit modern living.

Full planning permission was granted in September 2024 for a comprehensive refurbishment, giving a new owner the opportunity to improve and future-proof the property while making the most of its exceptional setting.

Agent: Boyd’s Auctioneers

Flex rooms: Making spaces work harder HOME SMART As homes increasingly become the centre of everyday life, furniture is changing to keep up. The focus is on ‘flex rooms’ - spaces that can serve more than one purpose, whether it’s working, relaxing, cooking or entertaining. In 2026, furniture is designed to be practical, versatile and to fit how people actually live.

Open-plan kitchens are a good example. Integrated dining, living and utility areas are becoming more common, often with hidden storage or pull-out units that keep clutter out of sight.

Living rooms are also evolving, with spaces that might include a home bar, a small

cinema area or seating arrangements that can adapt for work or play.

Even bedrooms are being treated as multi-use spaces, with dressing areas, ensuite bathrooms and modular storage that can be customised to suit the household.

The trend isn’t just about making a room look good, it’s about making it work better.

Tall cabinets, deep drawers, wall units and smart storage solutions help you make the most of every corner. Pull-out drawers and shelves can hide small appliances or accessories, while integrated lighting makes spaces feel brighter and more welcoming.

Designers are also mixing materials and styles to give

rooms a more personal feel.

Wood, metal, glass and soft fabrics are combined to create spaces that feel both functional and inviting. By thinking about how furniture can do more than one job, homeowners can create spaces that suit their lifestyle rather than forc-

ing life to fit around a room.

The overall aim is simple: furniture that works as hard as you do. In 2026, it’s all about creating rooms that adapt to your needs, whether that’s cooking, relaxing, working, entertaining or a bit of everything in one.

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What’s On Your picks for this week TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK

Hamnet: Behind Shakespeare’s tragedy CINEMA One of the most talked-about books of recent years is finally reaching the big screen, with Hamnet arriving in Irish cinemas today, January 9.

Based on Maggie O’Farrell’s bestselling novel, Hamnet tells a story connected to William Shakespeare, but not in the way you might expect.

Rather than focusing on the famous playwright and his plays, the film centres on his family - particularly his wife Agnes and their children - and the devastating loss of their

11-year-old son, Hamnet. It’s a quiet, human story about grief, love and the lasting impact of tragedy.

Irish audiences have plenty to celebrate. Jessie Buckley, who plays Agnes, recently won Best Actress at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards, with critics praising her restrained, emotional portrayal of a woman trying to hold her family together while dealing with unimaginable loss.

Her co-star Paul Mescal, who plays William Shakespeare, was also recognised with a nomination on the same

night. The film has also picked up several award nominations, including Golden Globe nods, adding to the growing buzz around its release.

This is very much Agnes’s story. Shakespeare’s work and ambition sit in the background, while the film focuses on home life, relationships and the emotional distance that can grow in the aftermath of loss. It’s an approach that feels intimate rather than grand, and refreshingly free of the usual period-drama gloss.

Directed by Chloé Zhao (Nomadland), Hamnet has a

natural, unshowy look, with countryside settings and small domestic moments taking centre stage. The pacing is gentle, allowing the story to unfold without being rushed, and giving space for the performances to do the heavy lifting.

You don’t need to have read the book - or be a Shakespeare fan - to appreciate Hamnet. It’s a thoughtful, moving film about family and resilience, and one that’s likely to linger in the mind long after the final scene.

IMC Kilkenny.

An evening of hits with Foster & Allen Rather than a slick, overproduced show, audiences can expect a warm, easy-going evening of music, with plenty of well-known tunes and singalong moments. Alongside the classics, Foster & Allen will also dip into more recent material from their latest album, 50 at 50, which mixes favourite tracks from across their career with 14 new recordings.

The tour comes at a time when traditional Irish music is enjoying a renewed wave of interest, both at home and internationally, and Foster & Allen’s continued popularity shows

What to Read: Nesting, by Roisín O’Donnell - One mother’s fight to build a safe home. On a spring afternoon in Dublin, Ciara Fay grabs her daughters and drives away from a dangerous home. Facing coercive control and a broken housing system, she battles to rebuild a safe life for her family in this tense, compassionate Irish debut.

What to Stream: The Night Manager - It’s been nearly a decade since Tom Hiddleston’s hotel worker-turned-spy stalked a dirty arms dealer on the show based on a novel by John le Carré. It was meant to be a limited series for the BBC and AMC, but its creators are now bringing it back with a new and original story. Catch it on Prime Video.

What to Listen To: Before I Forget, Kid Laroi - This is a thoughtful, emotional leap from his earlier work, trading flashy singles for honest storytelling and introspection. Built after scrapping a previous project, the album leans into heartbreak, nostalgia and raw feeling, anchored by songs like ‘A Perfect World’ and ‘A Cold Play.’

WATERGATE THEATRE | FRIDAY, JANUARY 16 | 8PM TO 10PM and I Will Love You All My Life.

MUSIC Foster & Allen return to Kilkenny as part of a special tour celebrating 50 years in music, with a concert at the Watergate Theatre on Friday, January 16, 2026.

The duo have been a familiar presence on Irish stages for decades, and this anniversary show is very much about the songs that people know and love. Their 50 Years of Hits concert will feature many of the tracks that helped build their loyal following, including Bunch of Thyme, Old Flames, Maggie, After All These Years

Where to Laugh: Shane Todd: Hold Me Back - Shane Todd returns to The Set Theatre on January 15, with his brand new standup show. Armed with his signature wit, razor-sharp storytelling and a complete inability to take himself seriously, Shane’s world tour is headed for Kilkenny. Shane Todd hosts the Tea With Me podcast and performs in some of the world’s most famous comedy clubs.

there’s still a strong appetite for live, familiar music done well.

Despite five decades on the road, the duo are still touring

regularly and drawing crowds who enjoy hearing the songs live rather than just on the radio at home. Tickets cost €37.

What to Play: I Am Future (Switch, PS5, Xbox Series X/S) A relaxing single-player survival game set in a flooded, post-apocalyptic city. Players build a cosy rooftop camp, grow a farm, fish, craft tools and tinker with gadgets. Manage a team of robots to expand and automate your base, explore the mysterious surroundings and enjoy a calm, laid-back adventure at your own pace.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Food & Drink Shakshuka: Poached eggs in spiced tomato sauce

Time to shield kids from junk food ads

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RECIPE Shakshuka is a vibrant, one-pan Middle Eastern dish of eggs poached in a rich, spiced tomato and pepper sauce. Perfect for breakfast, brunch or even a light dinner, it’s packed with flavour and visually stunning, with bright red sauce, golden yolks and fresh green herbs.

Ingredients (serves 2–3): • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 medium onion, finely chopped • 1 red bell pepper, sliced • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 tsp ground cumin • 1 tsp smoked paprika • ¼ tsp chili flakes (optional, adjust to taste) • 400g canned chopped tomatoes • 4 large eggs • Salt and pepper, to taste • Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped, for garnish • Crusty bread, to serve

FOOD

Method: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking for 5 - 6 minutes until softened.

2. Stir in the garlic, cumin, paprika and chili flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

3. Pour in the chopped tomatoes, season with salt and pepper and simmer gently for 8 - 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Make small wells in the sauce and carefully crack an egg into each well. Cover the pan and cook for 5 - 8 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your liking. The yolks should remain slightly runny.

5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley or coriander.

Serve immediately with crusty bread to scoop up the sauce and yolk.

Tips: • For extra richness, add a small knob of butter or a drizzle of olive oil over the sauce before serving.

• Feel free to add feta or olives for additional flavour and texture.

• Shakshuka is easily doubled for a crowd or adapted with seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

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Ireland should follow the UK in introducing landmark restrictions on the promotion of junk food to children, a leading charity has said.

Under new UK laws, all paidfor promotion of unhealthy food online is banned, and TV advertising of such products is restricted to after a 9pm watershed. These measures aim to improve children’s diets and protect their long-term health.

The Irish Heart Foundation now wants the Irish Government to implement similar restrictions.

“This is a crucial measure for

children’s future health that stands in stark contrast to lax rules which offer little protection to children in Ireland,” said Chris Macey, director of advocacy at the Irish Heart Foundation.

“Children in Northern Ireland will now have greater protection than their counterparts here from unscrupulous online targeting tactics by junk brands that we know are rampant. They result in overconsumption, which in turn causes high rates of overweight and obesity that are damaging children’s long-term health.”

State research estimates over 85,000 of today’s chil-

dren - around one in 20 - will die prematurely due to overweight and obesity; children as young as eight are presenting with high blood pressure, and some teenagers have a cardiovascular age as high as 60.

Despite this, rules restricting TV advertising in Ireland are so weak that even four- and five-year-olds see over 1,000 junk food ads a year. “Children are seeing an average of three junk food ads every 10 minutes they’re online - the equivalent of over 13,000 ads a year based on two hours daily on digital platforms,” Mr Macey said.

“To put that into perspec-

tive, exposure to just over four minutes of unhealthy food advertising increases consumption by an average of 60 kcal.

But an extra 48–71 calories a day is enough to generate weight gain in children over time.”

Mr Macey said strong policy recommendations, including from the Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs and the 2020 Programme for Government, have not been implemented.

“The implementation paralysis of successive Governments…has to end. The futures of tens of thousands of today’s children depend on it,” he added.

Moderation and local brews thrive DRINK

New research from Drinks Ireland shows the drinks sector is seen as vital to local economies, tourism and social life, alongside a continued trend toward moderate and responsible drinking.

Nearly three-quarters of drinkers (73 per cent) agree local breweries and distilleries make a positive contribution to their communities, while 80 per cent say they provide important local employment. Some 81 per cent consider Irish producers important for national tourism, and 67 per cent believe having a drink helps bring people together, highlighting the longstanding social role of

Freepik

pubs and hospitality venues.

The research also reveals a sustained cultural shift toward balanced drinking.

Ireland’s per capita alcohol

consumption has fallen 34 per cent over the past two decades. More than half of drinkers (54 per cent) say they are consuming less than

a year ago, while 63 per cent embrace a “less but better” approach, up from 47 per cent in June 2023. A desire for a balanced lifestyle drives reduced consumption for 65 per cent, and 74 per cent favour education and awareness over regulation to support responsible drinking.

Non-alcohol beer continues to grow, with 25 per cent sales growth and a 77 per cent production increase in 2024, now representing over 2.5 per cent of the beer market - a 150 per cent rise in five years. Some 62 per cent of drinkers say greater availability of 0.0 per cent options reduces alcohol intake, up from 47 per cent in September 2023.

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Sport

Young Kilkenny Stars impress in league Saturday 13th December: CluneTech Kilkenny Stars 65 Dublin Raiders 62 Saturday 20th December: Limerick Celtics 79 CluneTech Kilkenny Stars 56 Sunday 28th December: University Of Galway Mystics 53 CluneTech Kilkenny Stars 74 The CluneTech Kilkenny Stars have recently completed an impressive run of three games, recording two victories and just one loss, a performance that has firmly established them in 5th place out of 10 teams in the Domino's Women's Division One League at the conclusion of 2025. For a team in its first season in this highly competitive league, and one with such a young roster, this is an exceptional achievement and a testament to the talent, dedication, and resilience of these players.

The run of matches began with a thrilling home win against Dublin Raiders. The Stars delivered a scintillating

first-half performance that left the Raiders reeling and seemingly on the brink of defeat. Kilkenny’s precision and energy in attack were extraordinary, thrilling the home crowd. Yet, the Dublin team refused to go quietly and staged a determined comeback in the second half, making the final minutes intensely competitive. It was the unrelenting support of the packed home crowd and the Stars’ composure under pressure that ultimately secured the win, giving the team an early boost in confidence.

Next came a challenging away fixture against the formidable Limerick Celtics.

On this occasion, the Celtics’ disciplined and active zone defence proved difficult for the Stars to penetrate. Despite a strong showing and moments of brilliance from Kilkenny, the defensive pressure limited scoring

opportunities, and the Celtics capitalized on the advantage, running out comfortable winners. While a setback, the game offered valuable lessons for the Stars,

highlighting areas to refine as they continue to adapt to the pace and intensity of Division One basketball.

The final match of the run, played just after the

Christmas period, saw the Stars travel to Galway to face the University of Galway Mystics. Despite the long trip and challenging conditions, Kilkenny approached the game with determination and focus. The match itself was high-paced and scrappy, with frequent fouls creating a stop-start rhythm.

The Stars’ composure at the free-throw line became a decisive factor, as they converted an impressive 48 free throws throughout the game. The Mystics struggled to cope with Kilkenny’s aggressive attack and high-pressure play, ultimately conceding the match. This victory underscored the Stars’ ability to perform under pressure and highlighted the depth of talent in the squad.

Looking ahead, the CluneTech Kilkenny Stars return to O'Loughlin Gaels for a home

game on Saturday, 10th January at 6pm against the in-form Limerick Sport Huskies. With a promising matchup ahead, the team will be hoping to see the “Stars Army” in full voice, providing the energy and support that has already helped lift the team to impressive heights in their debut season.

Thanks as always to our main sponsor CluneTech and our home game sponsor InFocus Opticians. In addition our team sponsors Kytelers Inn, Langtons Kilkenny and John Cleeres Bar & Theatre.

Under 18 National Cup Semi Finals: On Sunday 4th January our club will compete in the U18 Girls National Cup Semi Final for the first time in our history. This is a huge day for our club and the Stars Army will be heard in The Parochial Hall, Cork at 1.30pm as we try to go a step further and reach the final. This is a big ask as our girls face the home team Brunell but no doubt we will give it our best.

This team is proudly sponsored by Robert Quinn Ltd.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA BEST WISHES All readers of these notes are wished a happy, prosperous and healthy 2026.

CLUB LOTTO Clara Lotto Christmas Draw Results for 16th December 2025, there was no winner. The numbers drawn were1, 15, 21. €30 Lucky Dip Winners: Ger Comerford, Thomas Drennan, Anthony Kelly, Ann Cassin and Brian O Shea.

Hamper Winners: Mikey Brennan, Ann Mullins, Michael Foley, Jimmy Coogan, Denis O Callaghan, John Corr, Liam Ryan, Ray Lannen, Jimmy Cody, Eddie Langton, Kathleen Pyke, Eugene O Sullivan, Mark O Dwyer, Bill O Keeffe and David Shortall.

Bottle of Spirit Winners: Ed Mulrooney, John Corr, David Barcoe, Marion Finlay, Aidan Kenny and Áine Prendergast.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS HANDBALL SUCCESS Congratulations to Ollie Morrissey (O’Loughlins) who won his singles grade in the prestigious Liscarroll Handball Club Tournament over the festive period. This is a tournament that attracts young aspiring players from all around the country to compete and is a great yard stick for the championships ahead. Well done to Ollie on a great win.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated December 30th. The numbers drawn were 5, 10, 23 and 28. The bonus number was 27.

Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com. Thank You for Your continued support.

Promotors Draw: (€40 each). 1. Nuala Coyne c/o E Kinchella. 2. Tommy Coyne c/o K Cleere. 3.

Madison Cody c/o M Cody. 4. Dinny and Mags c/o Dinny. 5. Kevin Cleere. 6. James Gibbs c/o JJ Cullen. 7. M Buckley c/o G Buckley. 8. Linda Murphy c/o Online. 9. Lindsey Lenane c/o Online. 10.

Lesley Ann Casey c/o Online MAYFAIR LIBRARY Meet the Authors |Thursday, 22nd January | 6pm - 7.30pm. Join us for a special evening with local authors Niamh Mulvey, Orla Mackey, and Brendan Casey as we mark our 2025 reading challenge, “Read 25 in 2025.” This panel event will be chaired

by Rebecca Reynolds. This event is a celebration of reading and an opportunity for our authors to share their own reading habits. The books they most enjoyed last year. The writers they’re excited to discover in the New Year ahead. It promises to be a wonderful gathering for book lovers, all are welcome to attend.

NEW CLUB WEBSITE Don’t forget to check out O’Loughlin Gaels GAA & Camogie Club’s website. Stay connected with all the latest news, upcoming fixtures, and match results. Explore exciting features such as: Play Lotto, Shop Online via the O’Neills Store and so much more! Don’t miss our launch video, it’s packed with highlights and a sneak peek of what’s new.

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

NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes, please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD WEDDING BELLS The marriage took place in the Church of the Assumption, Gowran between Tommy Flynn youngest son of Paddy and Collette Flynn, Woodiew, Freshford and Nessa Farrell only daughter of Frank and Ann Farrell, Gowran. The ceremony was performed by Fr. Pat Dalton.

The bride who was given in marriage by her

brother Frank Jnr and was attended by her bridesmaids Aideen Kehoe, Kate Breen and Niamh Farrell. Bestman was John Flynn and groomsmen were Liam Phelan and Edwin Brennan. The offertory gifts were brought to the altar by the mothers of the bride and groom. Music was by Sarah Howard and Declan McGoldrick. The readings were done by Amy McCarthy and Davy Brennan.

Prayers of the faithful were recited by Sarah Byrne, Ruby Flynn, Mia Bergin, Stacey Davies and Gwen Browne. Reception took place in Lyrath Hotel Kilkenny. Tomas was a well-known member of St.Lachtains GAA teams over the years since his underage days while Nessa was a keen camogie player. The happy couple are wished all the very best in their newly married life together.

NEW BABY Congratulations go out to Brian Kennedy and his wife on the birth of their baby daughter last week. Brian is an ardent member of St. Lachtains intermediate hurling team.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Syd Martin, Woodview on the death of his brother John on New Years eve in Delgany Co Wicklow.

Sympathy is also extended to Mrs. Teresa Dillon, Kilkenny Road on the death of her sister-in-law, Ms. Helen Casey Abbeyleix, Co. Laois.

HOME FOR CHRISTMAS Freshford had plenty of visitors back home for Christmas and the new year. Among those were twin sisters Danielle and Natasha Phelan and Paul Guinan all home from Australia, Also all the way from down under are Seamus Hayes and his now wife (they got married in Kilkenny the week before Christmas) and Kim Farrell and her family who had their baby boy christened on Sunday last.

DEATH The people of the village were shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden and unexpected death of Kathleen Bergin late of Blackwood, Freshford. Kathleen was originally from Carlow and was an ardent camogie player in her younger days. In her late sixties she was a quite inoffensive and good living lady and will be sadly missed by her family and friends. Her funeral mass took place in Clontubrid church followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. She is mourned by her husband Sean, her daughter Shauna, her sisters, brothers, sisters in law, brothers in law, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community alert remind you that membership is now due and you can contact any Committee member if you want to join the group or pay your membership.

SOCCER Freshford Town had just two teams in action at the weekend as all other games were cancelled due to weather conditions. The U13 boys lost to Evergreen A on a 2-0 scoreline. The U13 girls’ meantime had a good win over Freebooters on a 2-0 scoreline with goals from Siun McCarthy and Lily Daly The annual St. Stephen’s Day Ducks Phelan soccer tournament took place at the Sportsfield at Woodview on St. Stephens day with 16 teams taking part again this year. The first semifinal saw Liam Hayes team beat Colin McGrees team on penalties while the second semifinal saw Eoin Kennys team defeat Jordan Burkes side also on penalties The Lisdowney side led by Eoin Kenny went on to defeat Liam Hayes side in the final on a score of 4-2 The cup was presented by members of the Phelan family and is in memory of the late Liam (Ducks) Phelan who himself was a talented footballer and member of Freshford Town Junior side for many years. Thanks go to all those who helped organise the event and to those who donated in any way to this great event.

The Club held a presentation night later that night in Kavanaghs Bar and the winners receiving their medals and prizes. The club made a special presentation to local man Gary Barnaville for his commitment and service to the club over almost four decades. Gary ran the academy each Saturday morning for youngsters starting to play soccer from five years upwards and he was manager of very successful underage teams over the years with his famous U12 squad winning the double back in the 80/90. Gary thanked the club for their

kind gesture and said he enjoyed his time with the youngsters over the years and was glad to be able to give something to the local club and hopes it will continue into the future.

FOROIGE Freshford Foroige youth club is on its Christmas break at the moment and will resume in the new year. They meet each Monday evening at the Community Hall. New members are very welcome, and they are also looking for leaders.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

SAFETY FIRST The recent development of the car park at Freshford Cemetery was a most welcome project for people wishing to visit the graves of their loved ones. It’s now open every day and it will facilitate safe entry and exiting for all who wish to park there.

OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget weekly, every Wednesday located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941 BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall at 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge and you are most welcome to attend these classes. For further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 if you are interested in joining PARISH NEWS Mass times for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 730pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1, 2, 3 basis. Weekly masses Monday 9.30am Kilmanagh, Tuesday and Friday –Freshford -9.30am and Thursday –Tullaroan at 9.30am.

RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio.

NEWSLETTER The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during hours of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla.

VISITS Fr. Mark is happy to visit the sick and if you would like to receive a visit from Fr. Mark, you can contact him by phone or through the parish office.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4pm and is a welcoming hub in the village. They’re always happy to see more people on both sides of the counter, so why not drop in to support your local café, meet a friend, enjoy a chat, and savour some delicious homemade food? Along with great refreshments, The Loop hosts a variety of community activities that bring neighbours together. The café is also seeking volunteers to help keep these services thriving. If you’re interested in getting involved, please call 056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon.

MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB CLUB MEMBERSHIP Membership secretary Mark Noonan reminds

members that their 2026 membership fees are now due. Payment may be made via the website www.foireann.ie by following guidelines to the James Stephens site where the various membership categories are displayed.

BAND’S THANKS The management of the St. Patrick’s Brass and Reed band would like to put on record their appreciation for the wonderful acknowledgement by city shoppers for their open-air carol concert presentations during the busy Christmas season.

A special thanks to the band’s loyal city and parish supporters for turning out in great numbers at the carol services in St. Fiacre’s church and especially in their home base, St. Patrick’s church for mass on Christmas morning.

LOTTO It was the very best form of a New Year’s greeting for regular Lotto supporter, Paddy Foley when his numbers 6, 9, 18, 24 were drawn from the drum on Tuesday night to claim the jackpot of €4,800.

To Paddy we say enjoy the slice of good fortune that the new year has brought. The seller of the ticket was social club officer Mark Noonan. The Lotto committee would also like to thank the many club members and friends who supported the draw during 2025 and hopefully will continue their support into the new year.

BENNETTSBRIDGE ART GROUP Art classes will resume on Monday, 12th January at 2pm. Members celebrated Nollaig na mBan in Marion Murphy’s home on Tuesday. It was a get together to celebrate a successful year and looking forward to new challenges in 2026. Absent friends were remembered with love.

The Christmas Card project organised annually by the Art Group was supported well in the village and as a result a significant amount was donated to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team. Thanks to everyone who bought the cards. Thanks also to the artists whose work appears on the cards each year. The Bennettsbridge Cards have been winging their way to family at home and abroad for a good many years now. Many thanks to Lily in the Post office, PJ Cullen in Centra, Larry in Moth to a Flame and James Crotty, Pharmacist for stocking the cards.

CHURCH NEWS Masses this weekend; Bennettsbridge Thursday and Friday 10.30am Sunday. 10 30am. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm.

FIRST COMMUNION First Holy Communion Preparation Mass will be held on Sunday, 18th January.

MOLLY’S THRIFT SHOP Molly’s Thrift Shop in Gowran is looking for ladies’ clothes and any unwanted Christmas presents.

Proceeds go towards services for the elderly.

HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY GOWRAN Homes for the Elderly in Gowran have a house available in St Mary’s Court. Contact the Secretary at Parochial House. Applicants must be over 65 and capable of living alone.

CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS Sincere and grateful thanks to all for your generous contributions to the Christmas offerings for the priests of the parish.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Ray Kent, on the death of his father, Aidan Kent in New Ross, Co Wexford.

Aidan was predeceased by his brother Michael.

He is survived by his wife Nancy, sons Raymond and Brendan, daughter Sinead, grandchildren Sean, Aodhán, Conor, Gearóid, Molly, Shannon and Lucy, brother Tom, daughter-in-law Kathleen, sisters-in-law Bridgie, Mary-Jo and Nellie, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Reposal was at Cooney’s Funeral Home, New Ross. Requiem Mass was celebrated at St. Mary and Michael’s Parish Church, New Ross followed by burial afterwards in St. Stephen’s Cemetery.

EAST END The annual Sean Keogh Memorial Tourney was held at the weekend with plenty of laughter, both on and off the pitch. Congratulations to the U40s, who took the win 4–2 over the O40s. The Over 40s will be looking to reclaim their lost crown next year—so everyone is advised to get into training

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

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Community & GAA Notes and break out the WD-40. A special mention to our younger players who played a fantastic game of soccer at halftime—brilliant effort. Well done to everyone involved. Happy new year!

GAA Irish Life Healthy Clubs Step Challenge: Join team Bennettsbridge for the new steps challenge that began on January 7th and ends February 11th. If you have participated before simply rejoin on My Life App. Please see the club’s Facebook page for details of how to enter. A great way to get moving this year.

Signage Campaign: The Bennettsbridge GAA club Pitch signage campaign is still available to businesses that wish to be involved. Many thanks to all the business owners who have supported the club so far. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

Split the Pot; The first draw of 2026 will be held this Friday, January 9th at 6 pm in the clubhouse.

The draw can also be entered online on the club spot app under fundraising. Thanks again for the support.

GOWRAN GOWRAN AC Gowran Seniors are County Intermediate XC winners after an entertaining evening in Rosbercon.

The Men’s 8000m was a highly competitive affair with Martin Desgrandchamps fighting it out with Tadhg Ryan of Thomastown for first place. Martin just missed out even after a superb sprint on the finishing straight but secured 2nd place and led the team home to winning gold on the night. A solid run from Sean Morrissey saw him finish in 3rd place claiming the bronze. A worthy team effort from Martin, Sean, John Coady, Marty Moseley and Paul Flood to win the Intermediate Shield on a very cold and frosty evening. The juveniles also had great success with Abigail Hunt 1st and Sarah Mulrooney 2nd in the girls U13 1400m. Cian Shortall stormed to a great victory in the boys U13 race straight after. While Conor Maher just narrowly missed out on a medal finishing 4th, with Jack Keys and Harry O’Regan following in behind in 6th and 7th. Incredible running from everyone.

GOFFS THYESTES Only three weeks to go until Goffs Thyestes Day on Thursday 22nd January 2026 Complimentary Shuttle Bus service will leave The Gaol Road, Kilkenny City, R95 ER84 (beside Kilkenny Fire Station) two hours before the first race. Get tickets at https://www.gowranpark.ie/racing/buy-tickets/ YOUNG IRELANDS CAMOGIE A great night was had in O’Neill’s Bar and Lounge for our Christmas Jumper Night with great entertainment from Peter Hutchinson. Thanks again to all who came and supported the night, it was greatly appreciated. Massive thanks to all those who donated prizes. Also, thanks to O’Neill’s Bar for being such great hosts.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH LADIES FOOTBALL Following on from the youth survey conducted

by Graiguenamanagh Town Team, the results showed that a Ladies Gaelic Football team was the number one amenity missing from the town.

As a result of this, we are asking all girls and women from the age of 10 and up to inform us of their interest in playing the sport. forms can be got at the hub, the library and from the holistic healing centre. There is also an option on this form for Gaelic for Mothers and Others which is noncompetitive and fully for the social aspect!

We will be in contact with all those that are interested regarding whether we have sufficient numbers to go ahead with building teams at various ages early in the new year.

BRANDON HILL Well done to the cross on Brandon committee, it was great to see that the Brandon Hill Cross was lighting over and above Graignamanagh and the surrounding areas for Christmas. We remember all those who have passed and hope it shines as a beacon of light and comfort as people return home for Christmas.

ROWING CLUB We here at Graiguenamanagh Rowing Club are delighted to announce the arrival of new gym equipment from Fitness Equipment Ireland.

These were purchased with the amazing grant we received from St. Canice Credit Union at Community Connect 2025, These will be vital in the continued strength and conditioning both the juniors and adults do here in the club.

What a way to end the year! Today was the last training session, and the blue Christmas hats, games, and maybe a little birthday cake were the perfect things to end on! We at the club would also like to give the biggest thank you to the O’Flynn family for coming all the way up from Cork to run our annual Christmas Rowling event, this was our 6th year running the event, and honestly it wouldn’t be Christmas here in the club without them! And this year’s winner being Pat O’Flynn himself was just the icing on the cake, a real Christmas wish come true!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our members, their families and friends, and to our wonderful community here in Graiguenamanagh!

HIGHVIEW Our u16 girls played the Mercy Secondary School from New Ross on Sunday morning in a challenge game. It was a Great game and great minutes in the legs for all. We ran out 4 - 2 winners in the end after a very exciting game. Mercy who are mentored by our own club physio Nigel Fitzharris, showed a solid footballing performance and we wish them well for the rest of their school year.

Scorers: Aibha Farrell, Rosanna Doyle, Mia Farrell SCHOOLS Graiguenamanagh Safe Routes to School – Making School Journeys Safer. Big improvements have been completed at all three schools in Graiguenamanagh as part of the Safe Routes to School programme. Working together with students, local authorities and An Taisce, the project focused on making the areas outside each school safer, more walkable and more child friendly.

What’s new? Raised pedestrian crossings. Widened footpaths for safer walking. A new sustainable drainage system outside Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál. Pencil bollards and colourful road markings to highlight the presence of children. These changes help calm traffic, boost visibility and create safer, more welcoming spaces for young people on their daily journey.

ABBEY HALL Happy Christmas to all and welcome home to those returning for Christmas we wish you all the very best of times with your families. Graiguenamanagh Hall and our Christmas Lights Group hope you like the effort we made to have the place festive and lit up for Christmas. Thanks to everyone who supported our efforts, to Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils, to our Local TD. Chap and to Cllr. Bruno Cleere, to Cllr Willie Quinn, Jason McDonald/Brandon Hire for providing the cherry picker. To those who assisted us when turning on the lights, The Duiske Inn Liam and Lynn for the cocoa and Supervalu for the sweets and chocolate for the kids. Sean, Vera and all our Local Firefighters and Gardai who delivered Santa safely and helped with the traffic control to keep everyone safe. To Simon Brown and Declan and all the County Council Crew for the Christmas tree and helping to put up the tree and lighting. The Tidy towns and the Credit Union for their donations this year and to those who donated on the evening and in Credit Union.

The lights would not have power without the businesses who support every year and give us the power connections they are; Jamie McGrath, Ryanhair, Pat Doyle, River Palace Chinese, Arif and Kababish, Dorans Supervalu, O’Driscolls and Duiske Diner. To all the helpers who helped in any way thank you and enjoy Christmas.

GAA We are looking forward to a great 2026 season.

Registration for Club membership is now open.

We are also delighted to offer Gym membership options. For insurance purposes, all patrons must be members of the GAA Club to join the gym.

To become a Club/Gym member, download the Graiguenamanagh GAA App. KILMANAGH MOUNT CARMEL DRAW The results of the December draw are as follows. €200 Joe Cuddihy Prologue, €100 Eddie and Mary Guinan Windgap, €30 Brian O Neill Kilkenny, Michael O Connell Clonkil, Julie O Brien Garryricken, Anna Grace Coolalong, Claire Ann Power Poulacapple, Benny Butler Minauns, Bernie and Pat Kennedy, Rachyl and Lauren Carmody Newtown, Tommy Butler Tullaroan, Emma Horgan Callan. Promoters’ prizes’ €15 each Margaret Ryan, Mick Maher, Breda Butler. Residents draw €20 each Danny Walsh, Podge Norris and Michael and Bernie O Neill. We would like to wish all our promoters, subscribers and friends a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year.

CHRISTMAS TEA PARTY A great day was had at the Christmas Tea Party held in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre Kilmanagh. There was music from a lot of talented local artists as well as set dancing and Irish dancing from young parishioners. Thanks to everyone who, in any way, contributed to the success of the day. Donations were collected for the Ollie Brennan Fund.

SHANE MURPHY MEMORIAL The Shane Murphy Memorial 7-A-Side Soccer Tournament which took place on St Stephens Day in Clonard Park was a great success. Thanks to everyone for turning up and supporting this first year memorial in spite of the cold weather.

SOCCER RESULTS U17 Schoolboys League: Newpark 6 River Rangers 6 FIXTURES Saturday, January 10th – U14 Schoolboys League – River Rangers v Newpark Sunday, January 11th – K&DL Division Two – River Rangers v Evergreen COMMUNITY CAFÉ Following its annual break, the Ballingarry Community Café will reopen on Thursday, January 22nd.

CHRISTMAS ACORN If you didn’t manage to grab our Christmas Acorn in the shops you can still order one from Eileen on 086 373 99 83.

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

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN BARROW RANGERS The lotto draw of 23rd December match 3 winner was Pat Culleton (€150). There was no jackpot winner. Next draw is on 13th January for €9,350.

BEREAVEMENT The death has taken place of Patricia (Patsy) Cahill. of Goresbridge.

Predeceased by her parents Jim and Bridie, sister Rena, sister Mary her brother-in-law Martin and her nephew Jim. She will be sadly missed by her niece Mary, nephew Martin and their families as well as by her many friends and staff of St Columba’s Nursing Home in Thomastown and her friends and relations in Goresbridge.

BRIDGE UNITED In the Lotto draw of 28th December €100 went to Biddy Begley while €20, each, went to James/Brid Doran, Joe Kelly, Brid Cleere, Caroline Gardiner, Pat Grennan, Kathleen Cleere, JO’C, Eoin Kavanagh, Maria Donohoe and Shirley Wise. The club wishes a Happy New Year to all its members and supporters! Their support does not go unnoticed, and the club is most grateful.

CHURCH SERVICES/EVENTS Mass times: Goresbridge, Saturday 7.30pm, Sunday 10am; Paulstown: Sunday 11.30am. Weekday Masses: Paulstown, Thursday and Friday at 10am.

No Mass in Goresbridge on Wednesday.

Church of Ireland Service at 11.30am this Sunday in Grange Sylvae (Goresbridge) The Legion of Mary resumed on Thursday 8th January in Paulstown. There is an organised group pilgrimage to Medjugorje, 1st-8th April, directed by Fr Keane. Information: Aisling Kealy 083 376 7608 The Society of St Vincent de Paul expresses its gratitude for the collection of €1596 at the recent annual church gate collection in the parish.

TALKING THE TALK Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) resumes after the Christmas break on Friday 16 January. Nollaig Shona agus athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh!

MENS SHED The annual general meeting will take place on Wednesday 14th January at 12 midday. New members welcome.

SPLIT THE POT In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results of the lotto draw for 4th January were: 1 Tia and Ruth (€100) 2. Catherine Kennedy (€20) and 3. Jennifer Kavanagh (€20).

Tom Healy

STROKE SUPPORT The Carlow Stroke Support Group meet this Friday, 9th January 2.30 - 4pm at St. Dympna’s Hospital, Athy Road, Carlow. Meetings are open to Stroke survivors and carers. They are informative and social. For further information text/call Lynda 087 7814697.

TAR ISTEACH Reopens this week. There is a half price sale on everything.

ST MARY’S PARISH PILGRIMAGE Medjugorje pilgrimage May 27th 2026, 7 nights, €949 pps. Staying in Hotel Leone (half board).

Spiritual Director Fr Ted Sheehan. Group Leader Sean O’Shaughnessy 0862959380 / medjugorjecork@icloud.com or contact JWT on 01 2410800.

CATHEDRAL CAFE Have you been to the Cafe that is re-opened there at the Cathedral. They are open each Saturday and Sunday and they are being well supported - why not stop down after Mass or the next weekend when you are in town. Profits there support the work of Teac Tom and those working there always have a smile and a warm welcome for visitors.

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

CHRISTMAS OFFERING A gentle reminder to return your Christmas Offering. A sincere thank you to those who have already done so.

ART AND ARCHITECTURE The Adult Faith Development Group are holding a pilgrimage to Northern Italy (Padua, Venice and Bologna) March 20th-26th exploring faith by means of reflecting upon some of the many wonderful pieces of art scattered throughout these cities. Italy is blessed with a remarkable array of religious art - frescos, paintings, sculptures, mosaics and stuccos. This pilgrimage will explore the religious and catechetical meaning of some of these masterpieces. Details in parishes on posters or by email afd@ossory.ie or 057 93 55050.

CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKSHOP St Mary’s Cathedral, Chapter House Bookshop is open Monday- Friday 9.30am-5.00pm. Beautiful selection of First Communion, Confirmation, Wedding, Baptism gifts. Cards for all occasions.

ROTA Readers Next Weekend 11.00am – R. Heffernan, 5.30pm – Sr. Nuala Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am – K. Moran, M. Walsh, J. Campion: 5.30pm – F. Culleton, K.Meighan.

YOUR PARISH SAFEGUARDING REPS Sr Betty Cagney, Martina Lawlor Contact: safeguardingstmarys@ossory.ie MAKE FRIENDS Invite your family members to support the Cathedral FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL at www. stmaryscathedal.ie/friends COIS NORE The Cois Nore service has returned to Dr Hogan’s Rooms, The Square in Ballyragget – the service will continue from 11am to 1pm Wednesdays.

Anyone needing support with living well with cancer, a cancer diagnosis in the family, carers, or people bereaved from the loss of a loved one from cancer - are more than welcome to call for a chat, registration to the free and confidential Cois Nore services available in Kilkenny.

NOW A DANCING STAR What an incredible achievement for local star Katelyn Cummins, who delivered a truly unforgettable performance on Sunday night’s episode of Dancing with the Stars. Katelyn lit up the dance floor with a powerful and polished tango that captivated both the judges and viewers at home, earning her a well-deserved place at the top of the leaderboard. Her confidence, precision, and stage presence were on full display, proving just how much hard work and dedication she has poured into the competition.

It’s inspiring to see a local talent shine on such a big stage, and Katelyn’s performance is something the whole community can be proud of. We hope she continues to grow, impress, and push herself to new heights, and Sunday night was a clear standout moment in her journey so far.

You can show your support and help Katelyn continue her Dancing with the Stars journey by voting for her. Simply text her name, Katelyn, to 53125 and make your vote count. Every vote matters as the competition heats up.

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Community & GAA Notes We’re wishing Katelyn Cummins the very best of luck as she moves forward in the competition and can’t wait to see what she brings to the dance floor next.

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Well done to everyone involved in North Kilkenny Light Up the Night for delivering another fantastic event this year. Once again, it proved to be a true highlight of the Christmas period, bringing communities together in a wonderful celebration of light, warmth, and festive spirit. The atmosphere, organisation, and sense of togetherness made it a special occasion for people of all ages to enjoy.

Events like this showcase the incredible community spirit in North Kilkenny and the dedication of the volunteers who make it possible year after year. A sincere congratulations to all involved on another memorable and successful celebration.

MASS TIMES Mass this weekend will be in Ballyouskill at 6pm Saturday and Conahy at 11am Sunday.

KILMACOW SCHOOL ENROLMENTS Enrolments are now open until Friday, 16th January for St. Senan’s National School and St. Patrick’s National School. Please contact 051 885361 or e-mail info@stsenansns.ie (St. Senan’s) or 051 974 474 or e-mail schooloffice@strangsmillsns.ie for further information.

SOCIAL DANCING IN MARIAN HALL Declan’s Social Dance Class from 8.0pm to 9.00pm will start on Wednesday, 14th January in the Marian Hall, Strangsmill. The fee can be paid on a pay as you go basis at €12 or €40 for all four classes. Contact Declan at 086 0286289 for more details.

CARDS NIGHT Kilmacow Community Centre host a card night at 7.45pm each Tuesday. All welcome to come along.

BOB CROKE CUP Well done to all in organising the match for the Bob Croke Cup, played at the Sports Complex on New Year’s Eve. The match between Kilmacow South West and Kilmacow North East was the feature but there were also displays by the Under 16 County Football Champions and members of the Under 8, 10, 12 and 14 hurling teams. Well done to Richard Dowling who refereed the match.

The proceeds of day were in aid of Rosedale Residential Home.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s draw were 7, 16, 17 and 24. There were five Lucky Dips. The Jackpot for next Thursday night is €2,550.

TABLE QUIZ The next quiz in the monthly series in the Fox’s Den will be in aid of the Parent’s Association of St. Senan’s National School and will be held at 8.00pm on Monday, 12th January ’26. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcome.

CHRISTMAS APPEAL

La an Dreoilín in Mullinavat

Thanks to all who supported the recent Christmas St. Vincent de Paul Appeal. The amount raised was €4,815.

MULLINAVAT NEW ‘KING OF THE WRAN’ CROWNED IN MULLINAVAT The revival of the centuries old tradition of dressing up in straw continued in Mullinavat on St. Stephen’s Day. A large crowd, both young and old, gathered to enjoy two hours of fun and music.

Many were dressed for the occasion, in straw hats, skirts and capes, and witnessed the crowning of Michael Power as King of the Wran for the coming year, by outgoing king Dick Claridge.

Following the crowning, in the Parish Hall, the new king led the parade on a return journey to Main Street and Fr Maher Place, before the music in the Parish Hall led by local musician Gary Power.

South Kilkenny Historical Society organised this event, their third Wren Day gathering, to help promote and renew these cultural traditions and the organisers were delighted with the numbers which participated and engaged with the group during the parade through Mullinavat Village. Chairman, Eddie Synnott, on behalf of the society thanked all musicians (including Gary Power, who co-ordinated the event), Monica Fleming for organising straw

making classes prior to the event and Kilkenny County Council for funding under the Community Event Grant Scheme 2025.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The topics and speakers for the first four South Kilkenny Historical Society lectures of 2026 were recently announced, with dates set for two. This year marks the centenary of the founding of Fianna Fáil and Eamon O Cuiv has agreed to deliver a lecture on this topic. Liam Burke will deliver a lecture on Kilkenny GAA. Both lectures will take place between January 15th and March 20th.

Further information regarding these lectures will be published once they become available.

Dr Ruth Duffy will deliver a lecture ‘Caring in the Crossfire: Northern Ireland’s Health Service during the Troubles’, on Friday 27th March. Memories and Memorabilia: Telling GAA Stories through Objects is the title of Dr Siobhán Doyle’s lecture on Friday 24th April.

Annual membership of the society, which is open to all, costs €20.

SOUTH KILKENNY BEEKEEPERS’ ASSOCIATION A beginners’ course will commence in Kildalton College from Monday, 23rd February. Please email skbkaeducation@hotmail.ie for more details.

MOONCOIN DANCE CLASSES Mooncoin Community Hall will host dance classes from 4.00pm to 4.45pm (5-7 year olds) and 5.00pm

to 5.45pm (8-12 year olds) each Friday. Please ring Rachel at 087 783 7570 for more information.

JOHNSTOWN CHURCH NEWS Large and uplifting crowds gathered for the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Masses across the three parishes, creating a wonderful sense of faith and community during this special time of year. The churches were beautifully prepared for the celebrations, adorned with glowing candles and festive floral arrangements that added to the reverence and joy of the Christmas liturgies. The warm and prayerful atmosphere reflected the spirit of the season and the care taken in preparing each church.

Fr Eamonn O’Gorman P.P. expressed his sincere thanks to everyone who contributed in any way to the Christmas preparations and celebrations. He acknowledged the dedication and commitment of the readers, Eucharistic ministers, altar servers, sacristans, choirs, and collectors, whose efforts ensured that the Masses were meaningful and well organised. Their generosity of time and talent played a vital role in making the celebrations so special for parishioners and visitors alike.

Fr O’Gorman also extended his appreciation to Fr O’Sullivan, who celebrated some of the

Teams for the Bob Croke Cup on New Year’s Eve

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

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Community & GAA Notes Brennan.

There was also a special Christmas draw, with twelve winning tickets of €75 each. The winners were Billy Mulhall, Marian O’Dornan, Mary Coogan, Alice Nolan, Shay Healy, Breda Kavanagh, Martin Dunne, Ger and Helen Byrne, Tommy and Sean Wallace and Shane Mulhall.

Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS My Open Library - Do you know about My Open Library service available at Castlecomer Library?

This service allows people to access the library 7 days a week, 365 days a year! Including all through Christmas. This might suit families who wish to use the library outside of staffed hours. If you are looking for a quiet place to study in the evenings or wish to bring the kids to the library at the weekend, you can register for a My Open Library card. Anyone who wishes to use this service is required to complete an induction session with a staff member. To book your induction session, phone 056- 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie CHESS CLUB Checkmate anyone? We are looking to see who is interested in joining an all ages chess club! If you are interested please let us know by phone 0564440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie and what days/ times suit you.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD Masses over the Christmas period. Thanks to the combined efforts of all involved, the Christmas celebrations across the parishes were a fitting and joyful commemoration of the season.

OFFERINGS Christmas offerings for the priests are now due.

There will be no morning masses on the week January 12th to 16th as Fr, O’Gorman will be on retreat.

WELLBEING WALK AND TALK Join us for a friendly and relaxed Wellbeing Walk and Talk taking place on January 12th, 19th and 26th. Walks will begin at 10am, meeting inside the sportsfield in Urlingford. This is a great opportunity to get some fresh air, enjoy gentle exercise, and connect with others in a welcoming and supportive environment. The walk is suitable for all abilities, with everyone encouraged to walk at their own pace. After the walk, participants are invited to enjoy a cup of tea and a chat at the Exit 4 Hub, making it as much about social connection as it is about wellbeing.

Whether you’re looking to boost your physical health, meet new people, or simply enjoy a relaxed morning out, you will be very welcome. For more information, please contact Sarah Bowden on 086 084 3446.

CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING Christmas trees can be dropped off at the entrance

to Assumption Place, Urlingford between January 5th and 21st. to be collected by Kilkenny County Council for recycling.

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.

IN OUR HANDS “Preserving Thurles Cathedral” fundraising campaign to support the re-roofing project by donating towards the cost of the slates. Brochures in Church porches.

YEARLY ENVELOPES FOR 2026 These have been distributed to all houses in the parish at the moment. If you haven’t received a box to date and wish to receive one, please contact the parish council.

PILATES WITH RUTH Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth.

Bring mat and water.

WAY DOWN UNDERGROUND From Coaldust to No Man’s Land. A story inspired by our mining soldiers in World War 1 Sunday 11th January at 7pm in Derrynaflan Theatre, Horse

and Jockey. Tickets €20. Text 086 1960157 or Way Down Underground Facebook page.

GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time.

Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. We had a full hall for our first bingo of 2026, and it was great to see some extra people coming from the parish. New support is always appreciated.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information, please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Denis McCormack Jnr, Thurles who won €178 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. Split the Pot for January is in aid of Ballysloe NS. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

NOREEN DOOLEY RIP The death has occurred of Noreen Dooley (née Lawlor), 7 St. Anne’s Terrace, Gortnahoe, Thurles December 30th, peacefully surrounded by her loving family and in the wonderful care of nurses and staff of Fennor Hill, care facility Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny. Predeceased by her beloved husband Mick, daughter Anne-Marie, parents Tom and Katie and brother Philip. Noreen will be sadly missed by her sons Murty, Aidan, Philip, Mikey, her daughters Cathy, Caroline, Sinéad and Maria, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchild Max, brothers Neddy, Paddy and Thomas, sister Annie, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Noreen reposed in Doyle’s Funeral Home, Urlingford last Wednesday evening. Removal from her residence took place on Thursday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe arriving for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in the Good Shepherd Cemetery, Gortnahoe. May she rest in peace.

CONAHY JOHN BUTLER MEMORIAL POC FADA Many thanks to all in the community who supported the annual John Butler Memorial Poc Fada on St. Stephen’s Day from the Upper Dinan Bridge to the Polo Grounds in Jenkinstown. All funds raised went to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the Christmas GAA Lotto draw were 1, 14 and 40. There was no winner of the €3,000 jackpot so the consolation prizes were Therese Brennan, Ann Burke, Declan Buggy, Ethna Healy and Shay Healy. The promoter prize winners were Helen Cahill, Nora Delaney and Seamus Óg

MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: - Saturday 10th. at 6.30p.m.

ROTA (FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OUR LORD) Readers Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Lennon. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power: Sunday 10.00a.m Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Marion Barron, Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr THANKS Many thanks to all the Children; Parents; Teachers; Musicians; Choirs; Readers; Eucharistic Ministers; Servers and others who prepared the Christmas Masses: and to all who cleaned and decorated the Churches in the Parish for the Christmas Season and throughout the year. Thanks to all who erected the Cribs; donated flowers and Christmas trees etc. A sincere thank you and greatly appreciated.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Many thanks to the Lotto Promoters and Supporters for their committed and ongoing support of the weekly Lotto. All funds generated are returned through prizes and by dividends to Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G.A.A. Club. These funds are critical to the development of all our facilities.

CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS: Envelopes for your Christmas Offerings 2025 may be collected in the Church Porch, and your contributions may be handed in during the coming weeks: or you may wish to donate directly – Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). Many thanks for all your support and contributions during the past year. Roman Catholic Diocese and Parishes of Ossory – Registered Charity No. 20015831 STONEYFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT Stoneyford Active Retirement Group is a group of people from Stoneyford and its environs. It is open to anyone who wishes to join. It is mainly made up of retirees but that is not a requirement.

Membership is €20.00 for the year. We run a wide variety of activities in the Community Centre (yoga, bowls, cards, etc.). We regularly have classes (flower arranging, art, pottery, jewellery making, beading, to name but a few). We also have outings to theatres, houses, gardens and museums.

Members are free to make suggestions for activities, classes or outings and if enough people are interested, we will do our best to accommodate them. We have meetings on the first Wednesday of the month, which includes refreshments. At some of our meetings, we will have a guest speaker.

Our next meeting is in the Community Centre, Stoneyford on the 7th of January at 2.30p.m. and a welcome for all.

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

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurlng matters - Preview

Cats frozen out of Walsh Cup after coin-toss madness!

Luke Connellan should start for the Cats on Sunday

Kilkenny manager Derek Lyng will hope his side see action on Sunday

Westmeath advance as Shield

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Dioralyte Walsh Cup & Shield 2026 Following some farcical shenanigans last weekend, Kilkenny will get their intercounty preseason underway this Sunday when they face-off against the winners of last night’s clash between Laois and Carlow in the Dioralyte Walsh Shield.

The Cats Walsh Cup campaign saw them exit the competition without

pucking a ball, as their clash with Westmeath fell victim to the muchanticipated wintery conditions that authorities had plenty of notice of.

Originally, the venue selected for the fixture was Breedon Kevin Molloy Park, but the designated venue was deemed unplayable due to the prevailing weather conditions following a pitch inspection which took place around 12 noon. The ‘back-up’ venue nominated by the Lake County was St Loman’s 3G pitch at Dovida Lakepoint Park, and that is where the teams and supporters headed for once the announcement was made about The Downs venue. The game was then called off minutes before throw-in, much to the disappointment of everyone, but not everyone appeared to be singing from the same hymn sheet.

Westmeath GAA took to social media and claimed that Kilkenny had forfeited the fixture, but later, Leinster GAA released a statement confirming that ‘following a further pitch inspection, today’s Dioralyte Walsh Cup game between Westmeath and Kilkenny has also been deemed unplayable, and as per competition regulation, with refixtures not possible, coin tosses were held and determined that Offaly, Galway and Westmeath will advance in the Walsh Cup. While Antrim, Kildare and Kilkenny will now enter the Walsh Shield competition’.

Before hopping on the bus back to Noreside, Derek Lyng spoke to KCLR’s Oisin Langan about the debacle and the reasoning behind the game being called off. ““The 3G there is quite bare, it’s not great for an inter-county match. It’s fine,

you could do a few drills there but speaking to our medical team and taking the advice on board, number one is player safety.

“These lads are after putting in a huge effort and I didn’t want to be going home here today with a couple of injuries and lads losing out in the next couple of months after all that.”

“I’m hugely disappointed for the players, they were hugely looking forward to today, as I was and everyone involved was, but we had to make that decision and player safety is number one.”

By all accounts, the 3G surface at St Loman’s wasn’t in the best of shape, and both managers along with referee Rory Hanley walked over and inspected the grass pitch at the Mullingar venue, which was deemed playable, but unavailable by the club. The Emeralds clubman added:

“Kevin [O’Brien], the Westmeath manager, and I went out to the (grass) pitch there and inspected that just to see if that was playable, and we deemed that much safer.

“I had a good discussion with the referee, he completely agrees and the decision has been made. We were all happy to go on the pitch but seemingly the club decided that the pitch wasn’t going to be made available, for what reason I don’t know. That was their call; we were willing to play it on it.”

The outcome of the situation became clear later last Sunday evening, when Leinster GAA confirmed the coin-toss results.

The Kilkenny panel will be keen to see action this weekend, and the challenge of Laois or Carlow will provide a stiff test to Lyng’s experimental squad. I’d imagine that

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Hurling matters - Preview

Ed Mc Dermott will add some height to the forward line

Shane Murphy should get a run out in the Shield

beckons for Lyng & Co subject to availability, the manager will probably give the named XV for the Westmeath game the run-out this Sunday. As expected, Lisdowney’s Aidan Tallis was given the keeper’s jersey, with Thomastown’s Diarmuid Galway named as his understudy on the bench. Many Cats supporters will hope to see Ivan Bolger on the edge of the square. The Graignamanagh player is highly rated and seen by many as one of the natural heirs to Huw Lawlor’s full back throne.

Indeed, former All-Ireland winner Walter Walsh name checked the Kilkenny U20 star as a possible deputy for the travelling Lawlor, when he spoke with the Irish Examiner last November.

Shamrocks Ballyhale’s Darragh Corcoran was listed as team captain at centre back, with Clara’s David Barcoe and the more experienced

Shane Murphy of Glenmore flanking the skipper. The engine room featured Killian Doyle and Cathal Beirne, the latter one of the rising stars down at Pairc na Ratha.

Emeralds player Doyle has been in and around the senior setup for the past couple of seasons, and he will be keen to show his talent on Sunday. The half forward line looks to be a skillful and pacey one with the trio of Luke Connellan, Liam Moore and Castlecomer’s Michael Brennan. There is definitely the need to unearth a couple more scoring forwards to compliment the likes of TJ, Eoin Cody and Mossy Keoghan.

With Billy Ryan absent, there will be at least one shirt up for grabs ahead of Leinster Championship time. Further forward, Tullogher Rosbercon’s Marty Murphy is likely to get minutes, and he is a real livewire,

possessing a goal threat also.

Last weekends ‘non-event’ prevented the management team from running their eye over the panel named, so they will be keen to secure a victory over whoever they face on Sunday to provide another runout in the shield final next weekend.

As mentioned previously, I’d love to see Danesfort’s Des Dunne, Daire O’Neill and Anthony Ireland Wall get some minutes in the stripes of Kilkenny. Don’t forget, we are only a couple of weeks off the start of the National Hurling League with Offaly due into town on 25th January, and that will be the focus for Derek Lyng and co. Take two Ádh mór to our senior hurlers as they (hopefully) get up and running on Sunday.

So long Shamrocks!

Henry Shefflin has stepped down as Ballyhale manager

• On the club front, Shamrocks Ballyhale are on the hunt for a new manager, following the news that Henry Shefflin has stepped down from the role with his beloved club. The legendary Kilkenny forward, who was announced as the county’s new U20 manager last September, is also believed to be in the process of starting a new business, so something has had to give. Tentime Liam MacCarthy winner Shefflin ended his second spell in the hotseat at Páirc na Seamróg having guided the South Kilkenny team to a first county title since 2022, having previously guided Shamrocks to AllIreland glory in 2019 and 2020 during his first stint as manager.

We wish Henry all the best with the U20’s for the season ahead.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission is sought for the conversion of the Long Barn into three residential units with septic tank and associated works at Mountrothe House, Kilmacahill, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny. The Long Barn is located within the curtilage of Mountrothe House – Record of Protected Structures ref:369.

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

Applicant: Derek Walshe

Planning Permission is sought by Manson Development Ltd. for development at Coote’s Lane, Maidenhall, Kilkenny.

The existing building is listed on the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH Ref.: 12001105).

The development will consist of: (a) material change of use from existing grain/seed store to short term tourist accommodation (b) 3x no. storeys with 9x no. shared bedrooms and 1x no. open plan dormitory; (c) proposed conservation rooflights, triple glazed windows, externally louvred triple glazed windows, automatic entrance doors; (d) conservation & repointing of stone walls; (e) salvaged steel columns from the fabric are to be reinstated; (f) additional works will comprise alterations to widening of adjoining roadway, proposed pedestrian crossing, walkway; (f) drainage and all associated site works.

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

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

Tel No: 056-7753933.

Web: www.gmarch.net.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Michael Brennan intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing rear extension and detached garage/shed and all associated site development works at 4 Lower Bridge Street, Callan, Co. Kilkenny R95 W5A0.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Anna White and Fred Kiersey, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission to replace existing treatment system with new septic tank system and percolation area and all associated site works at Ballycarron, Jenkinstown, Co. Kilkenny, R95 F519.

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, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

056 777 1463

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.G.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.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. I.L.

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.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.D.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026

Classifieds

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

087 2587745

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th January 2026