Kilkenny Observer 09 May 2025

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Fair Deal is a No Deal

Land let in longlease may bar 13,000 farmers from care plan The Fair Deal scheme to cover nursing home fees – which can cost more than €120,000 a year – may prove unattainable to the majority of famers in Kilkenny and elsewhere.

Information obtained by the Farming Independent Editor Margaret Donnelly reveals that more than 13,000 people have land under long-term leases, which disqualifies them from being eligible for

the three-year cap under the Fair Deal scheme.

Under the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, which requires individuals to contribute toward their care, 80% of a person’s income and 7.5% of their total assets – including land – are factored into the calculation. Farm families only contribute 7.5% of the value of these assets for a maximum of three years, if

they meet certain criteria.

For many farmers, this could mean substantial savings toward nursing home costs.

However, farm families must meet strict conditions: * They must apply to the HSE to appoint a family successor, who will commit to running the farm or business for at least six years. * The farm or business must have been actively run by you,

your partner or your proposed family successor for at least three of the last five years. * A charge in favour of the HSE will be placed on your business or farm.

IFAC tax consultant Martin O’Sullivan said the current calculation for such land owners means that not only is 7.5% of the land value calculated as part of the Fair Deal assessment, but also 80% of

any rent from the land is put towards nursing home costs.

More than 13,000 people who have land in long-term leases will not qualify for the three-year cap on nursing home charges through the Fair Deal scheme.

Long-term leasing was actively encouraged by the State in the mid-1980s as part of policies designed to improve land mobility and increase

farming efficiencyand output.

Farmers were offered generous tax breaks on rental income, with tax-free income of up to €40,000 a year for leases of 15 years or more.

However, the Fair Deal’s asset test for the three-year cap on nursing home costs, which is based on the value of assets like land, does not recognise leased land as “actively farmed”.

Forecast good despite tariffs The Irish economy is not heading towards recession, despite the effect of tariffs placed on exports to the US by the Trump administration, a Department of Finance report forecasts.

In its latest annual report, the department downgraded its expectations for modified domestic demand (MDD), regarded as the most accurate measure of economic performance in Ireland.

If the current tariff position remains, the projection is that MDD will grow by 2% this year and 1.75% next year.

National finances are still expected to show a surplus in both years.

Taoiseach hits out at Israel

Our Nature Farm Ambassadors A Kilkenny dairy farmer couple who took a stand against soy-based feed imports have been named New Farming for Nature Ambassadors.

Bryan and Gail Daniels [pictured] are redefining dairy farming in Co. Kilkenny by combining high production with a deep commitment to environmental stewardship.

Operating on 157 hectares (388 acres), the Daniels fam-

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

ily’s innovative set a new standard for sustainable farming with exemplary milk production.

Taking over their farm during the quota era, Bryan and Gail initially sought to maximise their efficiency, focusing on producing the most costeffective litre of milk possible.

Today, they have surpassed traditional expectations by not only producing a remark-

able yield of 5,422 litres of milk a cow with exceptional quality — 4.35% fat and 3.71% protein — but also pioneering approaches that protect and enhance the surrounding ecosystem.

The Daniels have embraced sustainable practices well ahead of industry norms.

Since 2003, they have significantly reduced their reliance on synthetic nitrogen,

achieving over a 50% reduction by incorporating clover into their pastures. They’ve also ceased the use of chemical sprays for controlling dock leaves and are fiercely committed to using soy and palmfree feed, actively engaging their dairy processor, Tirlán, to develop a 100% soy-free dairy nut.

“Our mission is not just about high production; it’s

about trying to do what’s right for nature,” says Bryan.

The Daniels ensure that all farm operations conclude by 5:30 PM, allowing valuable family time with their young children.

Bryan and Gail will be taking part in an online Q&A about how they run their farm on May 20 at 8pm. They will also be hosting a walk on their farm in September.

The Taoiseach has condemned Israel’s scaled-up airstrikes on Gaza resulting in hundreds of civilian deaths. “I call on all parties to respect the ceasefire and hostage release deal, and to return to talks aimed at implementing the second phase of the deal.

“For the sake of the civilians in Gaza there needs to be an immediate resumption of humanitarian access to the people of Gaza, and at scale.

“This is not only an obligation under international humanitarian law but a moral imperative.

“I urge all sides to step back from the brink of the resumption of all-out war,” the leader of the Government said.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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News

Apprentice Nicholas nails it on the head Kilkenny-based apprentice Nicholas Rossiter, aged 24, has been announced as one of the Top 10 finalists for this year’s Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition.

Aspiring electrician Nicholas, who is currently completing an electrical apprenticeship at ATU Letterkenny, will join nine other trade apprentices from across the UK and Ireland, in a bid to be crowned Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2025 winner.

The winner, who will be announced at the two-day final this month, will take home an incredible prize bundle of tools, training and technology worth €10,000 – while also scooping €2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers for their college.

Nicholas got his first taste of the trade industry when he lived in Australia, where he worked in construction. Upon his return home to Ireland, he enrolled in a product design course for a year, which sparked his love for practical, hands-on work and led him to pursue a career in the electrical industry.

Due to qualify in September, he hopes to one day run his own business and mentor apprentices of his own. A passionate proponent of renewable energy, he additionally hopes to incorporate sustainability into his work.

highly rewarding to work in, and so to be recognised for my skills and dedication at this level is such a huge compliment,” he said.

“The competition is an incredible opportunity to showcase what I’ve learned so far, while highlighting the importance of trade apprentices in shaping the future of the electrical industry – and I’m looking forward to the final where I can take my creativity and skills to a new level.”

Hosted at Google’s UK Office in London the competition’s final promises to be a challenging yet rewarding experience.

The final will offer the top 10 the chance to network and participate in workshops hosted by industry experts and will see each of them interviewed by an expert panel of judges.

Through events like this, Screwfix aims to inspire and support the next generation of skilled tradespeople, shining a spotlight on the diversity, innovation and rewarding opportunities within the trade sector.

His unmatched commitment, evident passion and impressive drive saw him stand out in the semi-final heats, after

being selected from more than 2,000 applications.

Nicholas said: “I can’t believe I’ve made it through

to the finals of this year’s Screwfix competition. When I submitted my application, I never dreamed I’d make it this

far. It’s also so exciting to be representing Kilkenny at the national final.

“The electrical industry is

* To learn more about the Screwfix Trade Apprentice competition and this year’s finalists, visit https://www. screwfix.com/landingpage/ tradeapprentice.

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News News

Bia Bloom-ing great for Ballyfoyle Bord Bia Bloom has announced that Ballyfoyle Pastoral Group in Co Kilkenny will be joining this year’s exciting event line-up with its postcard garden, Turning Back Time In Our Garden.

With just three weeks to go until the festival of flowers, food and fun returns to its home in the Phoenix Park, Dublin, organisers are encouraging visitors

to plan their visit and enjoy a great day out this summer.

The festival expects to welcome over 100,000 visitors across its 70-acre site.

Alongside 21 stunning show gardens, green-fingered visitors to Bloom can enjoy the perfectly formed Postcard Gardens supported by Tirlán CountryLife. These petite ‘postcard’ size green canvases tell stories from community

groups around Ireland. Ballyfoyle Pastoral Group will design the Turning Back Time in our Garden at this year’s festival. The backdrop of this garden, created by the group offers windows into the past and highlights the importance of spending time in the garden.

In addition, popular features will return along with some exciting new demonstrations,

panel discussions, talks and performances. These include breathtaking plants in the Nursery Village and The Plant Emporium, live demonstrations and interactive workshops including floral crown making in the new Botanical Hub, and exhibitions of Botanical and Floral Art and AOIFA’s (Association of Irish Floral Artists) Floral Art Competition.

Visitors to Bloom can meet 100+ of Ireland’s top food and craft drink producers at the Food Village and Bloom Inn, enjoy delicious food from plenty of food trucks, the BBQ Bliss area or Bloom’s four on-site restaurants: The Garden View Restaurant, Bistro Bloom, Country Crest Restaurant and The Seafood Terrace.

New for this year is ‘A Taste

of Bloom, curated by Neven’ a three-course dining experience celebrating quality Irish produce designed exclusively by chef Neven Maguire for Bloom. * Tickets are on sale via the BordBiaBloom. com website. Two children (aged 16 and under) go free with each adult ticket purchased.

Tipperary O’Meara is ‘honoured’ with post in Education Tipperary TD Ryan O’Meara TD has welcomed his appointment by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin as the new Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education. Deputy O’Meara said he was honoured to take on the role and is committed to advancing a fair, inclusive, and high-quality education system that supports every learner, from early years through to third level and lifelong learning.

“I am honoured to be appointed as the Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Education,” Deputy O’Meara said.

“Education is the foundation of opportunity, and I look forward to working closely with students, teachers, parents, school leaders, and all stakeholders to ensure we continue to invest in and strengthen our education system.”

Deputy O’Meara also expressed his deeply held belief that education is the great equaliser in society.

“I believe fundamentally that education is the great equaliser. It is what allows a child born into any set of circumstances the chance to rise, to grow, and to realise their full potential. Every child in our country deserves that chance — no matter who

they are or where they come from. That’s what drives my commitment to this role.”

In addition to his spokesperson duties, Deputy O’Meara has also been appointed to the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Youth, the Committee on Defence and National Security, and the Committee on Budgetary Oversight. He said these roles provide further opportunities to contribute meaningfully to national policy.

“I am pleased to join the Oireachtas Committees on Education and Youth, Defence and National Security, and Budgetary Oversight. These are vital areas of public policy, and I will approach each role with energy, responsibility, and a strong commitment to serving the people.”

Deputy O’Meara concluded by thanking An Taoiseach Micheál Martin (pictured) for the appointments and the confidence placed in him.

“I want to thank An Taoiseach Micheál Martin for his support and for placing his trust in me with these important responsibilities. I look forward to working as part of the Fianna Fáil team to deliver real progress and meaningful change.”

Cool cat as Canice sets out on epic trip Cois Nores latest fundraiser will see Canice the Cat walking virtually from Kilkenny Ireland to Kilkenny, Minnesota, USA and we need your help to get him there!

Canice the Cat has started a virtual journey from his home in Kilkenny, Ireland to Kilkenny, Minnesota in the US. Cois Nore are calling on people to help get Canice to his destination, a distance of 6,040 km to raise much needed funds for Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre. Participants can donate €20 and sign up to do a 5-kilometre walk, run,

swim, move however and wherever they want.

Every kilometre will be added to Canice’s progress across the Atlantic which Cois Nore will be tracking and sharing on their website and social media platforms.

The event is supported by The Kilkenny Lion’s Club and has already drawn participation from the Nore Dragon Paddlers, Marble City Cyclists, Fitness Coach Dee Murphy and TJ Reid Gym. “We look forward to mapping Canice the Cat’s progress along his route

to Minnesota and to see groups, clubs, schools and individuals across Kilkenny get moving this summer to help Cois Nore,” said Cois Nore Fundraising Coordinator, Sheila Murphy.

Cois Nore Chairperson, Bill Cuddihy said.

“This is a crucial year for Cois Nore, the refurbishment of our new premises is underway and we hope to be in by the end of the year’.

For more information and to register online visit coisnore.ie/k2k or for groups contact fundraising@coisnore.ie. * Picture above: Sheila

Murphy (Cois Nore), Kieran Cuddihy (Cois Nore Ambassador), Fiona Wallace (Nore Dragon Paddlers), Bill Cuddihy (Cois Nore Chairperson), Noreen Lally (Nore Dragon Paddlers), David Heffernan (Marble City Cyclists), Daniel McDaid (TJ Reid Health & Fitness Club), Gerry McGovern (Kilkenny Lion’s Club), Dee Murphy (Dee Murphy Coaching), Mary Dolan (Cois Nore), and Sam and Grace Cuddihy with Canice the Cat PHOTO: Harry Reid

MEP: ‘Let’s target the low hanging fruit’ Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher has said that he believes that Ireland must redouble its efforts to export goods and services into the European Single Market as a response to the possibility of an extended tariff war with the US. Kelleher, a member of the European Parliament’s Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) Committee, was commenting as it was reported that the Government were discussing a large trade mission to be led by An Taoiseach later this year.

“Trade missions are essen-

tial, and I believe a mission led by An Taoiseach is vitally important to our future prosperity.

“However, we cannot ignore our core markets, and quite frankly, with the exception of the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, as well as France and Italy to a lesser extent, we export very little to the other Member States,” he said.

“In 2023, of the €81.2 billion of Irish exports to the EU, €60.07 billion went to the Netherlands, Germany and Belgium, accounting for nearly 75% of all our exports to the

EU,” MEP Billy Kelleher said.

“The US may be our biggest trading partner as a single country, but we need to make sure we harness the potential of the tariff free single market on our doorstep.

“As a bloc, the EU is by far our biggest trading partner,” the MEP said.

There was a huge market in the east of Europe that Ireland should be looking to gain traction in Poland, the Scandinavian and Baltic countries, and central European countries like Czechia and Slovakia were all considerably more prosper-

ous than 10-15 years ago.

“It’s a well-established economic fact that bilateral trade between two countries is inversely proportional to the geographic distance between them,” he said.

For Ireland that meant boosting our exports to the countries closest to us. As well as trade within the EU being tariff-free, the EU was now actively working to lower internal administrative and compliance burdens, which should make it more attractive for small businesses to sell into the Single Market.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Eye for an eye, and nature of forgiveness Twenty one years ago this month I was on a flight from Durban to Cape Town. I was on an assignment for the Irish Independent to write an overview on the first 10 years of the rainbow nation, it having thrown off the shackles of apartheid.

About 20 minutes before we landed, my attention was drawn to the passenger two rows in front; it was the billowing righthand sleeve of his jacket that aroused my interest.

My instinct was right and for the remainder of the flight, having introduced myself, I was in the company of Albie Sachs.

I mention this, because the legacy of the Troubles is news again, and the decades-long search the Disappeared.

When you ask Albert Louis Sachs how can people forgive and forget, people who have been victims of

untold violence or who have had someone snatched from them in the blink of a bomb blast, he considers his answer carefully.

“I don’t use the words either forgive or forget.

When I met the man who tried to kill me, it was a very extraordinary encounter.

But I don’t feel I forgave him. That was not my wish.’’

Albie Sachs is a white man.

He is Jewish. That day of our first encounter he was a judge in the Constitutional Court of South Africa. But on April 7, 1988 he was a leading member of the outlawed African National Congress (ANC), living in exile in Maputo, capital of neighbouring Mozambique.

“I was in total darkness ... I knew that something terrible had happened to me. I heard a voice saying, ‘Albie, this is Eva ... you’re in hospital ... you have to face the future with courage ...

your arm is in a lamentable condition. You have lost your eye’.

“And I remember saying.

‘What happened?’ And the woman’s voice answered, ‘It was a car bomb ...’ .

“And I fell into a kind of sense of euphoria and joy because I knew I would live.

That moment that every (opposing side) anticipates and dreams about every day ... when they come to get me, when they hit back, will I be strong, will I be courageous?

Will I survive?

“And they had come. And I had survived ... ’’.

Albie Sachs turned 90 this year — an age when you would think it was time to take things easier. But since retiring, 16 years ago, from his demanding role in South Africa’s Constitutional Court, this quiet-spoken son of immigrant Lithuanian parents, pandemic notwithstanding, still crosses conti-

nents addressing nations on how to build bridges after political conflict has deeply divided the people of such nations.

Sachs is no stranger to Northern Ireland, having been a regular there since the early 1970s when he was

Meeting the man who tried to kill me an extraordinary encounter...

living in exile in Britain and the ANC had frequent contacts with the IRA. He was there for the Good Friday Agreement. And again in 2013 when I interviewed him more fully.

The apartheid agent who took Albie Sachs’ right arm and eye from him that day in 1988 went to the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission when it opened in 1996.

“I met him again after that,’’ Sachs told me in Belfast. “And I told him I couldn’t shake his hand when I had first met him but, having gone to the commission, he had now given something to the future of our country. I did shake his hand this time but it wasn’t an act of forgiveness on my part — it was an act of acknowledgement that he had done something. He’d had the courage to come to me and look me in the eye.

“He’s not my friend. If I sat next to him on a bus I’d be curious to know how he was getting on but I wouldn’t ask him out for a meal though I feel I can live in the same country as him.

“I feel we’ve become incompatriots.’’

On that flight to Cape Town 21 years ago, I asked Albie Sachs: “Was it worth it?”

“Sure, sometimes I miss my former self, the seriousness of that young lawyer, the sense of strain and endeavour, the hopeful radiance that used to infuriate my middle-class friends, convinced that it invited martyrdom rather than glory ... and then they felt proved right when the car bomb came ...

“To this day they look without looking, and ask without asking ... Was it worth it? Yes, for we have achieved so much.”

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News

We're in line for Chambers Awards Kilkenny, Carlow, Wexford and Waterford Chambers are among the shortlist for the Chamber Awards which take place on June 5. Dungarvan and Tipperary are also included.

The awards seek to recognise the outstanding work of affiliated chambers around the country while providing a platform for chambers to share and promote how active and engaged they are across several different areas.

The shortlist features 48

projects from 20 affiliated Chambers, exemplifying the wide-ranging work being done around the country.

Congratulating the Chambers shortlisted, Joe Creegan, Head of Corporate Life & Pensions at Zurich Ireland, the sponsor of the awards, said: “These awards are an opportunity to reward the excellence of the chamber network and their members; particularly for the work they do to promote the long-term development of businesses

in their communities so that they have better places in which to live, work and do business."

Among the shortlisted are: Best International Project • Waterford Chamber Building trade links with Märkischer Kreis, Germany.

Event of the Year • County Wexford Chamber Political Leaders Summit.

• Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber - The

Communications Series.

• Galway Chamber - Galway Chamber Business Awards 2024.

• Waterford Chamber - OffShore Wind Strategic Event.

Local Authority Engagement • County Tipperary Chamber - Clonmel Community Conversations on Substance Use

Lobbying & Policy Campaign • County Carlow Chamber Vote Carlow.

• County Tipperary Chamber - Snow and Ice January 2025.

• Waterford Chamber Driving diversity & inclusion in Waterford.

- Bigger and Better Together.

• Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber Ireland’s First Menopause in the Workplace Employer Support Pack.

• Kilkenny Chamber Kilkenny Gift Card.

Digital Campaign • County Wexford Chamber - County Wexford Chamber Supporting Local Businesses

Supporting Business • County Tipperary Chamber - Connecting Women in Work.

• County Wexford Chamber

Sustainability & Biodiversity • County Wexford Chamber - Sustainability Clusters – A Collaborative Initiative by GreenTech HQ & County Wexford Chamber.

Shula: a perfect season, sealed with a Super Bowl victory.

More than fifty years later, the Dolphins’ extraordinary feat remains unmatched.

Robbie’s ambitions transcended the field, too. In 1987, Robbie built the Joe Robbie Stadium through private finance. Two years later, Miami hosted the Super Bowl in the house that Joe built.

Scraping by

to finance his dream, Robbie pinched pennies by discarding Flipper, the Dolphins’ live mascot, and compensating catering staff with hot dogs. Countless Irish labourers helped to build the stadium, Kilkenny hands among them, connecting Mary’s lineage to Joe’s legacy. In June last year, Kilkenny legend JJ Delaney rekindled that bond, leading a Miami hurling side against Tampa mere miles from Robbie’s coliseum.

Yet, for all his triumphs, Robbie’s life cast a shadow. His relentless ambition branded him a tyrant and came at a steep personal cost. Both Robbie and his wife Elizabeth grappled with alcohol addiction – sports journalist Michael Rosenberg recalls he could “out-drink a small Irish town”.

In Miami, he led a double life, his affair starkly contrasting with his professional success. Robbie longed for a large, joyous family but was haunted by misfortune.

His eldest son, David, tragically leapt from the Golden Gate Bridge. As Joe’s empire flourished, his son Michael vanished days before a Super Bowl and slid into a world of drugs and

DUIs. His daughter Kathy drowned in Mexico under mysterious circumstances.

And so, the empire he had so meticulously built could not endure.

Upon his death in 1990, the Robbie dynasty fractured in a bitter legal feud over his estate.

By 1994, the Dolphins and the stadium had slipped from the family’s grasp.

Yet, the true measure of Joe Robbie’s life lies not in its final act but in the fire he embodied, ignited generations ago in Kilkenny.

His great-grandmother, Mary Kinna, possessed the courage to chase new horizons. Robbie transformed that courage into a legacy that resonates from Miami to the Marble City. Sport, they say, reveals character.

If so, Robbie’s life was a testament to the innovation and industry at the heart of Kilkenny – a local man, by blood if not birth, who built an empire and conquered America’s sporting world.

It’s time Joe Robbie takes his rightful spot as a Kilkenny hero – his legacy is too bright to fade. *The NFL will play its firstever regular season game in Dublin this year as the league continues to expand its global footprint.

Let's give credit for Age-friendly initiatives

We rank high for green houses

By Mark Moran -------------------------------From the Marble City to the sunlit shores of Miami, Joe Robbie’s story began with his great- grandmother Mary Kinna’s bold leap of faith. She traded her Kilkenny homestead for America’s Midwest promise, carrying a fierce determination. Robbie ran with it, embodying the American Dream – a meteoric rise from small-town obscurity to the pinnacle of sport and business glory.

He was the ambitious mastermind behind the Miami Dolphins, the architect of the NFL’s only perfect season, and a visionary who reshaped American football. But long before the Dolphins thrilled Miami’s crowds in their iconic aqua jerseys, Mary Kinna crossed the Atlantic chasing that promise.

Settling first in Iowa with her Offaly husband, Thomas Connell, the family later ventured westward to South Dakota. If Kilkenny is a county of those who forge their own destiny, then Mary passed that torch to Joe. Born in 1916 in Sisseton, South Dakota, Robbie carried resilience in his blood. His Lebanese father, Joseph, worked tirelessly to provide for

Applications are now open for the annual National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards. The prestigious awards, curated

by Age Friendly Ireland, are open to organisations, agencies, and members of the public in Kilkenny who are making exceptional contributions to make Ireland a great place to grow old. The deadline for applications is Friday, May 30.

Applicants can visit https:// agefriendlyireland.ie/national-age-friendly-recognitionand-achievement-awards/ current-year/ to apply or contact their Local Authority’s Age Friendly Programme Manager.

This year there are eight categories, each reflecting a World Health Organisation (WHO) Age Friendly Theme.

This includes the Transport

The Cat who built an empire Miami Dolphins' Joe Robbie and his Kilkenny roots

his family. His mother, Jennie, won the hearts of the Midwest with her baking.

By 14, Robbie’s brilliance blazed as a sportswriter for the local paper, The People’s Press.

He became Sisseton’s first university graduate, earning a degree from South Dakota, before enlisting in the US Navy the day after Pearl Harbour.

A sharp legal mind, he built a formidable reputation as a

Award; Active and Healthy Ageing Award; Business Innovation Award; Safety and Security Award; Communications Award; Environment Award; Community Innovation Award and Age Friendly Housing Award.

Speaking on this year’s awards, Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer of Age Friendly Ireland said: “Building on the continued success of the Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement awards, we’re once again calling on members of our communities to share their stories and achievements.

"We want to continue to shine a light on projects that make a difference for others, while also showcasing how other organisations can implement similar initiatives.

Each project counts in our journey of creating an inclu-

trial lawyer – but Robbie harboured loftier aspirations.

In 1966, Robbie took an audacious leap, securing Florida’s first NFL franchise. The Miami Dolphins were born, and Robbie etched his name into American sporting lore.

Like Kilkenny’s hurling dynasties, his team thrived on strategy, discipline, and hunger. Their peak hit in 1972 under legendary coach Don

sive Ireland for all, so if you have a project that you would like to put forward, we would love to hear from you.”

Commenting on their winning entry last year, Anna McGillicuddy, Employee Engagement Manager, Customer Operations of eir said: “It was an honour to be recognised with the Age Friendly

Business Innovation award, acknowledging the hard work of our team who implemented a tailored customer journey for our customers 65 and over.

The project makes it simple for our older customers to deal with mobile data, broadband or landline queries.

"Entering these awards

was important to us, to help showcase the importance of building accessible solutions to keep older people connected with their communities across Ireland.

"This project allowed us to make a real difference to people’s lives, and we hope our win encourages other organisations to follow suit or share their own stories.”

The Age Friendly Recognition and Achievements Awards ceremony will be held in the Galmont Hotel, Galway on October 23, 2025.

Previous winners of these age friendly awards have included eir Ireland for their Age Friendly Care line, An Garda Síochána, Kerry for their Safety Door Hanger Initiative and Brady’s Court, South Dublin County Council for their Infill Age Friendly Housing project.

Kilkenny is the 13th best county for eco-friendly homes in Ireland, as high BER ratings jump 48% The county beat 13 other counties to claim its spot in Switchers study.

In 2024, Kilkenny saw a 25% jump in SEAI solar panel installations, and a 48% increase in homes with BER ratings of B2 or higher. It had the fifth highest number of newly registered EVs in 2024, and seventh highest number of SEAI solar panel installations.

Homes with a BER rating of B2 or above grew by 33% nationwide (70,000 properties in 2024 compared to 2023). Solar panel installations rose by 28% nationwide (6,431 in 2024, compared to 2023).

Wicklow, Meath, Galway, Louth, Wexford, Cork, Kildare, Dublin, Kerry, and Mayo were the top ten counties with the most sustainable homes.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Time to protect women’s spaces – like UK ruling Some cities now have pedestrian crossing lights showing the LGBTQ+ sign in green for go and in London, I noticed recently, there are ‘go’ transgender signs on crossings. Since the UK’s Supreme Court ruling last month, though, trans women– men who identify as women – will not have the green light to go into women’s spaces or be admitted to female services or sports.

Lord Hodge’s ruling on the Equality Act last month, confirms that legal protections intended for women are reserved for women and defined by their biological sex (rather than by gender identity).

The ruling, simply restores the balance of law to where it was supposed to be, by ringfencing legal protection for women already in existence in the Equality Act. It

clarifies a situation where organisations have been misled to believe that they must treat trans women, (born biological males) as women.

Among other things it means that workplaces and schools must offer single sex facilities and that it will be unlawful for girls and women to have to play on football teams that include biological males or for men identifying as female to be allowed in women’s prisons.

In Ireland though, maleborn sex offenders, have been jailed in women’s prisons and biological males who have self-declared as female can access women spaces and sports.

Don’t we need similar legislation here to protect women’s spaces?

Such a move would be welcomed by Laoise de

Brun BL, CEO of the Countess. De Brun, who grew up on a farm in Co. Carlow and attended St Leo’s College, founded the Countess in 2019 to advocate for the safety of women and children following the passing of the Gender Recognition Act 2015.

“There is huge confusion across organisations about this issue, and we should take seriously the need to protect intimate spaces. The Act has had an impact across Ireland by blurring the boundaries.

The Gender Recognition Act has acted as a catalyst eroding women’s rights.” It should, de Brun suggests, be amended so that existing rights for women and children are protected.

A Bill to amend the Gender Recognition Act, in relation to biological males being jailed in women’s

prisons, introduced by Peadar Toibin TD, leader Aontu, has already passed the first stage. Deputy Toibin has pointed out that

Legal protections intended for women are reserved for women...

one of the many unintended effects of the Act has been a reversal of the policy of sex separation in prisons which has been in place since the Prisons Ireland Act 1826. No man should ever be housed in female prison regardless of how they identify, he believes.

Named after Countess Markievicz, the Countess holds that women’s right to privacy and dignity should be upheld. They have eight pillars of concern: these are around single sex provision, prisons, sport, legislation, lesbian erasure, safeguards, language and schools. On the latter point there are already plans for schools to have mixed sex toilets and the organisation holds that the practice of mixed sex wards should be stopped. On the language front the HSE have attempted to remove women

from medical terminology, replacing breast feeding with chest feeding and referring to persons instead of women with cervixes.

The trouble with gender neutrality is that it sidesteps the reality of biological sex and, where misinterpreted, can end up eroding the rights of women. Look at the misguided attempt to amend the Constitution, (ironically on International Women’s Day,) where the two amendments to Article 41 would have struck out the words ‘mother’, ‘women’ and ‘home’ and in relation to care would have replaced ‘marriage’ with the words ‘durable relationships’. The proposed amendments were roundly defeated.

If a similar test case were to be taken here. the UK ruling could set a legal precedent.

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The Kilkenny Kilkenny Observer Observer Friday Friday 9th 9th May May 2025 2025 The

News

SPECIAL REPORT Amnesty International Ireland Executive Director Stephen Bowen says governments must change course if human rights are to be safeguarded.

The Trump administration’s anti-rights campaign is turbocharging harmful trends already present, gutting international human rights protections and endangering billions across the planet, Amnesty International said in its annual report, The State of the World’s Human Rights.

This ‘Trump effect’ has compounded the damage done by other world leaders throughout 2024, eating away at decades of painstaking work to build up and advance universal human rights for all and accelerating humanity’s plunge into a brutal new era characterised by intermingling authoritarian practices and corporate greed, Amnesty International said in its assessment of the situation in 150 countries.

“Year after year, we have warned of the dangers of human rights backsliding.

But events of the past 12 months – not least Israel’s livestreamed but unheeded genocide of Palestinians in Gaza – have laid bare just how hellish the world can be for so many when the most powerful states jettison international law and disregard multilateral institutions. At this historical juncture, when authoritarian laws and practices are multiplying the world over in the interests of very few, governments and civil society must work with urgency to lead humanity back to safer ground,” said Agnès Callamard, Amnesty International’s Secretary General.

Here in Ireland, Amnesty International’s Executive Director Stephen Bowen said: “The state of the world’s

Governments must change to protect human rights ... says Amnesty International Ireland Executive Director Stephen Bowen human rights shocks the conscience of humankind, and governments, including the Irish Government, must change course if we are to rescue ourselves from further descent into the abyss.”

The State of the World’s Human Rights documents vicious, widespread clampdowns on dissent, catastrophic escalations of armed conflict, inadequate efforts to address climate collapse, and a growing backlash globally against the rights of migrants, refugees, women, girls and LGBTI people. Each of these

faces further deterioration in a turbulent 2025 unless a global about-turn is achieved.

“One hundred days into his second term, President Trump has shown only utter contempt for universal human rights. His government has swiftly and deliberately targeted vital US and international institutions and initiatives that were designed to make ours a safer and fairer world. His all-out assault on the very concepts of multilateralism, asylum, racial and gender justice, global health and life-saving climate action is exacerbat-

ing the significant damage those principles and institutions have already sustained and is further emboldening other anti-rights leaders and movements to join his onslaught,” Agnès Callamard said.

“But let us be clear: this sickness runs much deeper than the actions of President Trump. For years now, we’ve witnessed a creeping spread of authoritarian practices among states the world over, fostered by aspiring and elected leaders willingly acting as engines of destruction. As they drag us into a new age of turmoil and

cruelty, all who believe in freedom and equality must steel ourselves to counter increasingly extreme attacks on international law and universal human rights.”

The proliferation of authoritarian laws, policies and practices targeting freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly that Amnesty International documented in 2024 was central to the global backlash against human rights.

Governments across the world sought to evade accountability, entrench their power and instil fear by banning media outlets, by

disbanding or suspending NGOs and political parties, by imprisoning critics on baseless charges of “terrorism” or “extremism”, and by criminalising human rights defenders, climate activists, Gaza solidarity protesters and other dissenters.

A section of the annual report covers Ireland covering corporate accountability; right to a healthy environment; freedom of expression, association and assembly; sexual and reproductive rights; workers’ rights’; right to housing; right to health; discrimination; refugees’ and migrants’ rights.

Trump: snap action... and not a wrap for movies A plan by US president Donald Trump to slap a 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the US could hit Ireland’s movie and TV studios and also income for communities at location sites, of which Co. Kilkenny was recently named among Top 10 locations.

Trump said the American movie industry was dying a “very fast death” due to the incentives that other countries were offering to lure filmmakers.

Ireland has long had tax breaks for the production of movies and TV series.

They have been tweaked over the years and eligible filmmakers can currently claim back 32% of the cost of movies costing up to €125m

to make.

Ardmore Studios in Co Wicklow has seen films and TV series such as Braveheart, Vikings, Wednesday and Rob Lowe’s The Floor produced there.

While Troy Studios in Co

Limerick has endured a more challenging performance, it is currently hosting production of The Wayfinders, a fantasy series that sees three US highschool students transported to medieval times.

It has also been the home

for production of series for Apple TV and Netflix, such as Foundation and Nightflyers.

Ardmore and Troy Studios are Ireland’s two biggest production facilities.

They were sold in 2021 for about $100m (€88m) to a joint venture of US-based Hackman Capital Partners and Square Mile Capital Management.

The partnership owns the world’s largest independent studio and media portfolio.

Actor and filmmaker Lowe has criticised the lack of tax breaks in Los Angeles for the movie and TV industry.

“It’s cheaper to bring 100 American people to Ireland than to walk across the lot, Fox, past the sound stages and do it there,” he said of his

game show The Floor during a podcast in March.

“There are no tax credits, so like, all those other places are offering 40%.

“It’s just tax, economics of it all, so it’s criminal what California and LA have let happen - it’s criminal. Everybody should be fired.”

The finance minister Michael McGrath announced in 2023 that the project cap on qualifying expenditure in the Section 481 Film Tax Credit would be raised from €70m to €125m.

He said that “top-quality content” was being made in Ireland largely due to the funding offered through the Section 481 tax credit.

“Such productions provide a tangible economic benefit

to our country, through jobs, skills development, regional development and spend on local goods and services,” he said.

American media stocks tumbled yesterday after Mr Trump unveiled the 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the US. The levy could sharply raise costs for Hollywood studios and roil the global entertainment industry. Trump claimed the incentives offered by other countries are a security threat.

“This is a concerted effort by other nations and, therefore, a national security threat,” he said in a social media post. “It is, in addition to everything else, messaging and propaganda.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

The brave new world of the digital euro The European Central Bank (ECB) is developing a ‘digital euro’, a new form of money you could use via your phone or card, much like cash but electronic. The ECB began planning in 2021, started a two-year preparation phase in November 2023, and intends to launch by 2028. It will work across the 20 eurozone countries, including Ireland, and be backed by the ECB to ensure it is safe and dependable.

Imagine it as a digital version of the notes and coins in your wallet, accepted in shops, online, or for paying friends. Why introduce a digital euro? Are we not already using cards and/or apps to pay especially since Covid-19?

In the EU, digital payments soared from €184 trillion in 2017 to €240 trillion in 2021.

But the ECB wants Europe to depend less on American firms like Visa or Mastercard and keep pace with countries

like China which has its own digital currency. It also aims to ensure public money, euro issued by the ECB, remains relevant as private cryptocurrencies are gaining traction.

The digital euro is designed

for ease of use. You could pay at local shops, online, or even pay your taxes. It will function offline, which is great for rural areas with unreliable internet. Privacy is a priority, so the ECB promises your

spending details will stay private unlike some apps that track purchases. To protect the banks there will be a cap on how much digital euro you can hold, likely to be in the region of €3,000 to €4,000.

However, concerns exist: some fear hackers could target it, and others worry it might reduce the use of cash which could inconvenience those who prefer physical money.

In Ireland awareness is low.

A recent survey found many Irish people know little about the digital euro which could hinder its roll out. And a 2024 survey of Irish compliance experts revealed 71% are concerned about cyber attacks targeting consumers and businesses. Only 6% having no worries with 58% seeing the benefits like faster more convenient transactions.

The digital euro could transform payments for us all, making them smoother and bolstering Europe’s financial system. Yet, success depends on people understanding it.

The ECB needs to increase efforts to educate us addressing our fears about security and ensuring cash always remains an option.

The ECB is engaging with the public and businesses, but not enough. According to their website www.ecb. europa.eu: “In parallel, the ECB has concluded a call for applications, launched in January, for selecting potential providers of digital euro components and related services. The ECB has invited selected bidders to tender.

The outcome of this procedure will be published on the ECB’s website when it has been finalised in 2025.”

Even so the ECB must do more to explain why we need the digital euro. It will be a significant sea change for those not familiar with existing digital offerings, so there should be significant and clear communication why a digital euro could benefit us all from local shops, everyday shoppers, and the overall business community. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

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News Science & Wellbeing On April 17, news burst upon the world — thanks to observations from the James Webb space telescope — that a planet 124 light-years away might contain telltale chemical traces of life.

The planet, named K2-18b [pictured], appears to house dimethyl sulphide or dimethyl disulphide.

These are both gases which, at least on Earth, are produced only by living things.

Whether this should make us excited about the prospect of distant lifeforms — basking on K2-18b in the ruby light of its red dwarf star — is a matter of debate.

The evidence is shaky.

What’s more, history shows we have a tendency for wishful thinking in this department. It’s best to be cautious.

Yet, it is undeniable that momentum is building in the field of astrobiology, which studies life throughout the Universe and the ways we might detect it.

Within decades, NASA plans to launch an ambitious new space telescope, the Habitable Worlds Observatory, in hopes of answering questions about whether life flourishes elsewhere.

But the very fact that we are surprised and excited about tentative sightings of organic gases on a planet 124 light-years away is a massive departure from what people thought only a few generations ago.

That we now think of “life elsewhere” as an open question — one requiring caution — is a dramatic shift away from what’s been the default assumption for many centuries now.

Ever since people, roughly four centuries ago, began accepting that there are other solar systems besides ours, they immediately assumed that their planets simply must be occupied.

Historically, scientists have tended to presume our cosmos is not only full of life but, quite literally, teeming with it.

Why? Because they thought An interventional cardiologist from California, known as @doctorsanjaymd online, has had a video go viral in which he lists the Top 10 foods he would never purchase and eat again — based on everything he has learned from his near two decades working with heart patients.

“I realised that the conventional medical system was too focused on prescriptions and procedures — and not nearly focused enough on the immense power of diet and lifestyle to transform health,” Dr Sanjay Bhojraj (48) told Newsweek magazine.

Posted on March 29, the Instagram video shows Bhojraj in his kitchen as he delivers a rapid-ere list of foods that have no place in his family’s pantry. It has since been viewed more than 4.5

To bravely go where no man has gone before

Within decades, NASA plans to launch an ambitious new space telescope in hopes of answering questions about whether life flourishes elsewhere in the cosmos that, if this wasn’t the case, then our Universe would contain a lot of wasted space.

Humans have tended to assume that every single surface in the cosmos — including suns — must house reasoning animals, going about their lives in much the same way we go about ours.

Ultimately, it proves how far we’ve come, in our generations-long inquiry into the Universe, to even pose the matter of “life elsewhere” as a question — one whose terms need careful defining and refining.

In particular, we’ve come a long way from the early speculators who gleefully conducted cosmic population censuses, outputting eye-watering numbers by as-

suming each and every solid object in the cosmos is bursting with life.

In the early 1500s, the Polish polymath Nicolaus Copernicus initiated the string of discoveries that eventually snowballed into our contemporary understanding of Earth’s place: as but one planet among uncountably many, within an unfathomably large Universe.

But, only decades beforehand, some voices were already conjecturing in this direction. In 1440, the German theologian Nicolaus Cusanus argued that there must be countless other stars and planets. All of them, he thought, must be inhabited.

He even argued that suns

themselves must be peopled.

“By solar beings,” Cusanus envisioned, “bright and enlightened intellectual denizens”.

Cusanus wasn’t alone. The Italian philosopher Giordano Bruno was soon making similar claims. In 1584, he reasoned that just as we would deem it “ill” if our own planet were not full of life, “it would be no less ill if the whole of space were not filled”.

It took centuries of inquiry for humans to fully realise that the things we find valuable are not the same as the things that are independently real. It’s understandable: We are all victims of wishful thinking.

But back then, it was extremely common to assume

The Top 10 foods cardiologist would never eat million times and liked by more than 52,000 Instagram users.

Most viewers responded with applause, calling the cardiologist’s advice both

practical and eye-opening.

In the video, Bhojraj outlines the foods he avoids, many of which are often marketed as health-conscious choices in supermar-

kets but, according to him, are anything but.

The 10 Foods Bhojraj Would Never Eat 1. Agave syrup. While often

that everything that exists must exist for a purpose.

Accordingly, it seemed a gratuitous waste for outer space not to be chock-full of living, sensing beings.

As Bruno put it, we wouldn’t like the “nonexistence” of our living world, so why extend the ignominy of inexistence to our living neighbours?

Bruno got in trouble for his views — he was burned at the stake — but across the ensuing century, similar beliefs spread, became mainstream, and eventually became unanimous.

Even John Milton nods to other populated worlds in 1667’s Paradise Lost. (Satan passes by some of them on an interstellar jaunt, “but promoted as a natural sugar substitute, Bhojraj said it “spikes triglycerides fast,” which is a risk factor for heart disease.

2. Coconut oil in large amounts. “High in saturated fat is not great for already inflamed arteries,” he said.

3. Store-bought granola.

“Often ultra-processed and full of hidden sugars,” he said, making it a far cry from the wholesome food it often pretends to be.

4. Whole wheat bread with additives. According to Bhojraj, “most are just browncoloured white bread” that fails to deliver the benefits of true whole grains.

5. Flavoured Greek yogurt.

Despite its high-protein appeal, the interventional cardiologist said it often hides “tons of sugar behind the protein”.

6. Plant-based meat substi-

who dwelt happy there / He stayd not to enquire.”)

The conviction that every surface in the Universe must be inhabited even led the English astronomer Edmond Halley to reason, in 1692, that the Earth itself must be hollow and filled with nested concentric spheres within, like a titanic Matryoshka doll.

Why? Because this would maximise the real estate inside our globe for living, thinking, and appreciating beings.

Another scientist, the French diplomat Benoît de Maillet, theorised in the 1720s that even outer space’s void is teeming with microorganisms. He claimed “seeds” of living creatures circulate throughout space, agglomerating around planetary bodies like “filings of iron” around magnets. This also led him to reason that all planets share the same species.

Three decades later, in 1759, Adam Smith — the founder of modern economics — assured that the cosmos maintains “at all times the greatest possible quantity of happiness” for all “inhabitants of the Universe.”

It’s convenient that our word “economy” derives from the Ancient Greek for “house,” given that, in Smith’s eyes, our cosmic home is a maximally economical one.

No space is wasted. Smith considered it unthinkable that “all the unknown regions of infinite and incomprehensible space may be filled with nothing.” There must be happy consumers, everywhere.

The late 1700s saw the development of the first truly large-scale reflecting telescopes, revealing evergreater galactic magnitudes and volumes. In 1844, the Scottish geologist Robert Chalmers rhapsodised that nature’s “aim” simply must be “to fill up every vacant piece of space with some sentient being”. Anything else would seem a cosmic waste, given the magnitudes being discovered. tutes. Bhojraj criticised these for being “full of seed oils, sodium, and additives”.

7. Rice cakes. These lowcalorie snacks, he says, are “high glycemic, low nutrient,” leading to a “blood sugar roller coaster.”

8. Bottled green juices.

“Fructose bombs in disguise,” he warned, referencing the high sugar content often found in commercial juice blends.

9. Flavoured sparkling water with “natural flavours”.

Bhojraj said some of these drinks “contain synthetic chemicals and acids that erode gut lining”.

10. Gluten-free processed snacks. “Just as inflammatory, just with better branding,” he said, cautioning against the false health halo surrounding gluten-free labelling for those who are not intolerant.

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Travel & Leisure Paul Feig is the awardwinning director of Bridesmaids, Last Christmas, A Simple Favour and The Heat, as well as the creator of the beloved television series Freaks And Geeks. He is the author of Cocktail Time! The Ultimate Guide to Grown-Up Fun (2022).

Paul Feig has become almost as well-known for his love of cocktails as he is for his films.

“Try to find one of my movies where somebody’s not drinking a martini,” he jokes.

The BBC caught up with Feig as he prepared for the launch of Another Simple Favour which premiered on May 1 on Amazon Prime Video. The film sees the return of Blake Lively’s murderous, martiniswilling Emily and Anna Kendrick’s prim Stephanie for more sensual backstabbing – this time against the opulent backdrop of Capri’s Grand Hotel.

1. Dukes Bar, London, UK Feig’s favourite cocktail onand-off screen is forever the martini – so he holds his bartenders to a high standard. “Honestly, I’m very prejudiced about that,” he admits. “If they go ‘gin or vodka?’ I’m always, like, ‘I said a martini, I didn’t say a vodka martini.’ It’s so fluid now with people having vodka or gin martinis. But I’m a purist. I do hold that against a bartender occasionally.”

Feig never has cause to judge when he visits the historic Dukes Bar, located in London’s upscale St James’s neighbourhood.

“It’s a very small bar. It looks like grandma’s living room,” he says of the cosy space outfitted with heavy club chairs; opened in 1908.

“I wouldn’t be surprised to see people from Parliament walk in there. It’s got that vibe.

They have a dress code, which I love.

And it’s where Ian Fleming discovered the martini, supposedly. So, it’s got a little James Bond DNA on top of it.”

He says: “What they specialise in is martinis that don’t touch ice, so they’re the coldest martinis you can get. They bring out the frozen glasses, the frozen bottle of gin. They take vermouth – which is not frozen – but they put it into the glass, swirl it around just to coat the edges, and then they dump it out on the floor, so you just have the very thin coat. Then right from the frozen bottle, they pour in the gin. So it’s freezing cold; there’s no excuse for [a] martini that’s not ice-cold.”

Feig notes that because the martini never touches ice, it’s undiluted: “They limit you to two, because you’ll pass out if you go beyond that.”

2. Grand Hotel Quisisana The Grand Hotel Quisisana is located on the island of Capri, which Feig and his wife, Laurie, have visited “religiously” once a year for

Not shaken, but stirred by the best cocktail bars

the past 30 years. “Capri is my favourite place in the world,” says Feig. “Even when we’re not staying at the Quisisana, we go there for drinks because I love the bar inside.”

Built in 1845, the Grand Hotel Quisisana sits at the start of the bougainvilleadraped, luxury-boutiquelined Via Camerelle, catching the tourist overflow from Piazza Umberto I. The hotel’s marble lobby leads to opulent, Vietri-tiled guestrooms. Just past the lobby is Quisi Bar, which serves all manners of apertifs, and whose splendid streetlevel terrace has entertained royalty, politicians and artistic luminaries from Oscar Wilde to Jackie Kennedy.

“The best part is sitting out front, especially on that patio,” says Feig. “Everything in Capri comes past there.… and you will people watch. It’s just magical. You become a real Caprese local when you’re sitting up there.”

When in Capri, Feig veers from his usual martinis and opts for a spritz; Aperol or limoncello. And he particularly enjoys the Italian custom of the early evening aperitivo, where bar snacks like olives, finger sandwiches and crisps are served along with the drinks.

“It’s, like, ‘oh, here – eat!’,” says Feig. “I wrote in my cocktail book, ‘Should you

serve food at your cocktail party?’ And yes, unless you’re a monster, don’t serve people cocktails with no food! It’s that Italian ethos.”

3. Bemelmans Bar, New York City When not travelling the globe for work (and martinis), Feig is often in New York City where he has a residence on the Upper East Side – and firm favourite neighbourhood cocktail joints.

“Bemelmans [Bar] is an institution,” he says, “It’s in the Carlyle Hotel, which is one of the most famous hotels of opulence [in] the Upper East Side in New York.”

Bemelmans, originally opened in 1947 and beloved for its Art Deco decor, epitomises “old” New York for Feig. “I love history. I love old bars,” he says.

Like Feig, visitors to the bar will find themselves transported by the childlike murals on the walls – uplit against mahogany tables and rich leather tufted booths – as they enjoy elegant cocktails and live jazz.

But how’s their martini?

“They make great martinis there with a side car, which I love,” says Feig. “There’s a whole thing going on now in martini culture of bartenders coming over when you’re halfway through a martini

and bringing out a new cold, frozen glass and transferring what’s left of your martini, which I think is so brilliant.

Why don’t we do that all the time?”

He says” “It’s New York to me; the best of old New York.

It’s one of those places where you feel like you’ve walked into a New Yorker cartoon, basically.”

4. The Polo Bar, New York City “Oh, I love The Polo Bar so much,” says Feig fondly. “It’s new old New York.”

The eponymous cocktail bar helmed by fashion designer and philanthropist Ralph Lauren is on New York City’s East 55th Street just off Fifth Avenue, one of Manhattan’s swankiest shopping streets.

“It’s got the Ralph aesthetic,” says Feig. “It’s all wood and mirrors and paintings everywhere, and leather. And then, if you go up the stairs in the back, there’s a parlour where you can sit in front of a fireplace, and there’s a bunch of tables in there to have cocktails.”

At The Polo Bar, the bar staff prepares a stirred martini.

“Unless you ask them to shake it,” notes Feig. “I’m a personal fan of stirred martinis, because so many bartenders pride themselves on shaking a martini to

death, which is the worst way to do a martini, as far as I’m concerned, because it just clouds it up with ice chips. The glassware is all Ralph Lauren glassware, so if you order an old fashioned or whiskey, it comes in a beautiful old fashioned Ralph Lauren glass with the polo horses on the front.

“Even the stirrers are little polo mallets. The attention to detail is so spot on, and the way that the bottles are displayed; they’re uplit from beneath, so they glow.”

And after enjoying perfectly stirred martinis, guests can retire downstairs to The Polo Bar Restaurant.

“The food is fantastic,” says Feig. “It’s all very American food. They make an amazing hamburger, but it’s served so beautifully. But the cocktail bar really is the linchpin of the whole thing. It’s all very mature and very aesthetically fantastic.”

Website: www.ralphlauren. com/global-polo-bar 5. Smoke House, Burbank, California Burbank, California, is Feig’s other hometown in the United States – and it’s also home to Smoke House, a restaurant and bar for which Feig’s love has been well-documented.

“Smoke House is quintessential Americana,”

says Feig.

“I have a love of dark wood and red leather, which is what bars used to be in America for a long time. In Europe where you drink, there’s windows and there’s light. In America, you drink in the dark. I think it’s our American puritanism.”

For Feig, the Smoke House’s moody interiors evoke the glamorous heyday of the Rat Pack: “Frank Sinatra and Vegas… everybody’s cool, everybody’s in tuxedos and suits and gowns. The Smoke House is a time capsule of what that was.”

But Feig notes that for all the bar’s celebrity cache – it’s located across the street from Warner Brothers, Universal and Disney Studios – he loves that the crowd is surprisingly down-to-earth.

“It’s got a very populist crowd in there,” he says.

“So it’s got this great vibe of being old timey, but also very welcoming and not exclusive, which is lovely.”

The bar area hosts live music the second half of the week and visitors can enjoy the restaurant’s famous garlic bread and hot wings.

“I’m a buffalo wing fanatic.

They’ve got great ones there,” says Feig. Most importantly, they serve a “great” martini: “They have really good bartenders who, if you ask for a dry martini, they know how to make a dry martini.”

20

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

The rás for the Áras and I’m rarin’ to go...

So, I’m thinking of running for the Presidency. And why not – sure every Tom, Dick and Conor are thinking of running. Wouldn’t be surprised if the Monk runs. After all he did a spot of running during the local elections.

And what do you know about politics, Gerry? Not a lot to be honest – a lot less than most but maybe a bit more than others. But first off: Who can run for president? To be eligible you must be an Irish citizen and have reached the age of 35. So far, so good. Once these two requirements are met you must receive the support of at least 20 members of the Oireachtas or the backing of at least four local authorities – city or county councils. Mmm. Might be in a bit of bother there. A lot of bother. If you meet these criteria you officially become a candidate for president and your name goes on the ballot sheet come election time. The

election, I believe, will take place on, or up to, 60 days before November 11.

Oh, and if you’re a former or current president who wishes to run for a second term you can nominate yourself and put yourself forward for re-election. That’s handy.

Michael D, our President, won’t be doing that as he has already served two terms, the maximum a president can serve (the term of the presidency is seven years).

If a sitting president resigns, is removed from office, becomes incapacitated or dies, then an election must be held within 60 days.

Erskine Childers was the only president to die in office, in 1974. Two presidents resigned from office: Mary Robinson in 1997 and Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh in 1976 (and many of us remember the ignorant ‘thundering disgrace’ remark that led to his resignation).

While I’m on the topic

here’s a roll-call of all our presidents: 1. Douglas Hyde (1938-1945). 2. Seán T O’Kelly (1945-1959). 3. Eamon de Valera (1959-1973). 4. Erskine Childers (1973-1974). 5.

Cearbhall O Dálaigh (19741976). 6. Patrick Hillery (19761990).

7. Mary Robinson (19901997). 8. Mary McAleese

(1997-2011). 9. Michael D Higgins (2011-2025).

So, what with Michael D not in the running, it’s all to play for! It’s worth noting that the candidates are hit with a €750,000 campaign spending limit which must be accounted for by the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO). Damn

it. I was thinking of throwing a million into my campaign – after all it would take some bulky brown envelopes to grease the palms of those 20 Oireachtas members whose support I’ll need.

Am I suggesting bribery?

Good God, no. What do you take me for? I am simply referencing that trusted, age-old adage: money talks. And supports!

And who can vote for president? To vote, a person must be an Irish citizen and be 18 or older by the time of the election. They must also be ordinarily resident in Ireland and must be registered to vote. And who can vote twice? I’m not going there.

Besides, I don’t think that voting for a president merits such ‘enthusiasm.’

Oh, and if by any chance I am elected to the high office of the Presidency of Ireland – here are a few of my plans.

I won’t live in the Áras – I’ll

build a cabin (with planning permission, of course) out the back and offer accommodation to as many of our homeless as can be fitted in.

I’ll erect a modest bicycle shed out front for all those cyclists passing through the Phoenix Park to park up and enjoy a cup of evening tea, or coffee, free gratis (though I’ll feel obliged to charge a tariff of €25 for all American visitors) on the lawn. Every Friday night, weather permitting, I’ll erect a great outdoor screen and show some classic Irish movies – The Quiet Man, Ryan’s Daughter, My Left Foot etcto as many as can be accommodated.

Saturday nights I, personally, will host bingo for our Senr Citizens with complimentary tea and Marietta biscuits. Furthermore, if elected I guarantee that I will Make Ireland Great Again – MIGA (watch out for the slogan)

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Cruinniú na nÓg 2025

Unleash your creative spark at Cruinniú na nÓg 2025!

Get ready to ignite your imagination! Creative Kilkenny announces Cruinniú na nÓg 2025, a showcase of youthful innovation. Events start on May 18th at the Happy

Pottery Studio, leading to a festival of free events across the county on June 7th.

Join us for 52 free creative activities, exploring the picturesque landscapes of County Kilkenny. This

celebration of youthful creativity, overseen by the Creative Ireland Kilkenny Culture and Creativity Team, is supported by local youth organizations, creative professionals, libraries, and

community groups.

This year’s vibrant program includes dancers, coders, DJs, animators, musicians, circus performers, drama enthusiasts, and artists. Events run from June 3rd for ages 0-18 years, with highlights such as: • Cameraless Filmmaking at Butler Gallery • Little Einsteins Dancing Bubblcious Fun at Glenmore Parish Hall • Creative Printing, Dance, and Movement Workshops through Irish • Game Development • From Scratch Pop-Up Performances at Castlecomer Discovery Park, Windgap, and Drum Youth Centre Partnering with the Watergate Theatre and Waterford Walls, young people (ages 12-18) can create collaborative murals through Wonder Walls.

Participants will work with a professional artist in two workshops and present their mural on Cruinniú na nÓg. If you miss a spot, join the drop-in session on June 7th. Bookings through the Watergate Theatre.

Discover the full array of events on the Cruinniú na nÓg website or at your nearest library. Older teens

can enjoy night-time events, including: • Vinyl Disc Design Painting Party with DJ • Animation Workshops with Cartoon Saloon artists • Epic Digital Music Workshop • Creative Dance through Irish • Butts Mini Festival at Fr. McGrath Centre • Scent and Sensibility at My Skin • The Bunting Fairy at Kilkenny Design Centre Director of Services, Fiona Deegan commented, “Kilkenny County Council are delighted to support Cruinniú na nÓg and look forward to an amazing line up of events for young children across the County and this year we also look forward to a range of night time events for older teens through Night Time Economy funding.”

The Kilkenny's Creative Communities Engagement Officer, Majella Keating, said, “This year, we are thrilled to announce an additional 16 exciting events. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to making this programme a continued success and accessible to so many people across Kilkenny.”

Check the Cruinniú na nÓg website for event listings near you!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Opinion

Mind and body in harmony

By Paul Bolger

Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny | www.nanophysio.ie Has a doctor, surgeon or physiotherapist ever given you a prescription for ‘time with friends’? I’m going to guess not. But I think us healthcare professionals should be dishing out such prescriptions.

Believe it or not, social connection can act as a soothing balm for pain and even for recovery from injury. Let’s start to explore this further.

Friends Protect Us from Pain It is becoming clear from scientific research that those of us with a more fulfilled social life are less likely to suffer from persistent pain. Now this doesn’t mean that people with friends won’t feel pain, far from it - if you’re alive you are almost guaranteed pain at some stage. But the likelihood of that pain causing persistent and long-lasting trouble lessens in those who with quality social connections.

Other researchers have found that loneliness is linked to persistent pain issues – lonely people were

Reduce pain & ramp up recovery Social connection is a powerful pain reliever and ramps up recovery

more likely to suffer from pain compared to those for whom loneliness is not a regular problem.

Recovery from Pain Pain researchers who explore the journey of people who recover from

long-term pain issues have found that these people describe an opening up to the world from a previously

closed off place. They feel accepted and reconnected to the people and the world around them. Here is what one person had to say about their experience of being in a support group for people with persistent pain; “I finally met people who understood my experience. I met people who share my experience in the support group. I am free not to be judged by others. I am integrated, not isolated. I am bolstered.”

This sense of connection to others seems to be integral to dealing with any of life's setbacks – be they mental, physical or otherwise.

A Two-Way Street If you or somebody you love suffers significantly with pain, you will know that the relationship between pain and sociability is a two-way street. High levels of pain can make socialising less appealing, and less quality time with good friends can amplify pain. The road to recovery is rarely straightforward, but for many of us, time with others, particularly those people with whom we feel most comfortable, is an important

part of the journey.

Everyone is different, what fulfils one person socially is different to what fulfils another. But what is undoubtedly true is that we all need some degree of social connection and support for these bodies and minds of ours to function the way they are supposed to. When it comes to social support, both feeling supported and offering support to others give us benefits. Often people can feel a burden when suffering from ongoing pain – finding your place again, feeling supportive and helpful to those around you is another important step on the path to a more whole life.

Over the coming weeks we will explore the mechanisms in the body by which social connection offers us relief from pain, lessens our risk of persistent pain and even boosts recovery from injury.

For now, think about how much fulfilment you get from your social life. If you are lacking, are there changes you can make? Just start with one and take it from there.

Best of luck!

No appointment? No problem!

Doctor365 is a leading walk-in medical clinic that offers accessible and highquality healthcare services in Ireland. They are excited to announce that they have broadened their network to service the Kilkenny area.

They continue to make efforts to change the way that healthcare services are offered in order to meet the changing needs of their patients, both for the present and future.

Doctor365 have combined a new kind of doctor’s experience, operating seven days a week while providing both in-person and online consultations to meet the diverse needs of their patients.

Located in the heart of Kilkenny, Doctor365 is open daily from 10am to 7pm, including weekends. This extended availability ensures that individuals can receive timely medical attention without the need for prior appointments. The clinic is designed to accommodate walk-in patients, making healthcare more accessible for those with urgent or unforeseen medical needs. Additionally, online consultations are available from 10am to 10pm, allowing

Doctor365 brings 7-day walk-in clinic to Kilkenny

patients to seek medical advice from the comfort of their own homes. Doctor365 Kilkenny offers a wide range of medical services to address various health concerns from urgent care to

routine check-ups: • Walk-in GP service • Blood test and STI screening • Sick certs and driving license cert • Phone and video

consultations • Referrals • Ear syringing • Repeat prescriptions • Vaccinations • Minor surgical procedures

Doctor365 Kilkenny is committed to providing compassionate and personalised care at a very competitive price. Patients so far have praised the clinic for its friendly and professional staff, efficient service, and welcoming environment.

Many have highlighted the convenience of receiving timely medical attention without the long wait times often associated with traditional GP practices .

Doctor365 Kilkenny stands out as a reliable and accessible healthcare provider in the region. With their comprehensive range

of services, extended hours of operation, and patientcentered approach, they will play a vital role in meeting the healthcare needs of the Kilkenny community.

Whether you require immediate medical attention or routine health services, Doctor365 Kilkenny is equipped to provide quality care when you need it most as your health and wellbeing are at the heart of everything they do.

Contact Doctor365 on 0818 000 365, see their website on www.doctor365.ie or pay them a visit at Unit 10, Barrack Street, Kilkenny.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Kilkenny gears up for Bike Week 2025: A celebration for all ages!

John's Junior School honing their cycling skills in the lead up to Bike Week Participants enjoying the Slow Roll in Kilkenny City as part of last year’s Bike WeekRyan and Ben Nunan

Kilkenny County Council, in collaboration with Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership and Cycling Ireland, is thrilled to announce the return of Bike Week 2025, taking place from May 10th to May 18th. This week-long celebration offers a diverse range of events suitable for all ages and abilities, and all activities are free!

This year, Kilkenny County Council will host Bike Fest, family fun days filled with cycling-related activities, including obstacle courses, balance bikes, arts and crafts, and storytelling in Ferrybank Neighbourhood Park on Sunday the 11th of May, The Moate Field in Callan on Wednesday the 14th of May, and Dunmore Biodiversity Park on Sunday the 18th of May. We have also teamed up with Saddle Up for Down Syndrome to provide cycling activities for all ages in Danesfort GAA Club on Sunday, the 11th of May. For those who want to experience the thrill of off-road cycling, there is a host of introductory and intermediate mountain biking sessions led by certified instructors, Roisin Hickey and Aisling Cullen, in Castlecomer Discovery Park on Saturday, the 10th of May. Sessions are open to all and all equipment is provided.

A selection of leisure spins will also take place across the County.

Tuesday the 13th sees the first of the lunchtime cycles with a choice of distances, departing from The Parade at 12p.m. On Wednesday the 14th of May, a Slow Roll will take place around Callan, leaving from the Moate Field at 5:15p.m. On Thursday the 15th, our local community Bike Ride leader, Brian Fennelly, leads a spin to Stoneyford at 10a.m. and a

leisure spin leaves the City at 10a.m. on Sunday the 18th to Dunmore Biodiversity Park. On Saturday,17th of May, a cycle will take place on the South East Greenway, departing form the Rosbercon car park at 10a.m. for a 12k cycle or 10:15a.m. for a 6km family cycle. For something a little different, on Friday the 16th, a treasure hunt on bikes will take place in the Eastern Environs of Kilkenny City. The meeting point is Newpark Medical Centre at 6p.m. and all are welcome to attend.

There is an opportunity for adults to refresh their skills and get some tips on cycling in the City on Tuesday, the 13th, meeting at 7p.m. in Sullivan’s on John St. and once again, bikes can be provided on request.

Caitriona Corr, Cycling Officer with Kilkenny County Council, is delighted with the programme of events for Bike Week. She stated that our local schools have also been participating in a varied programme leading up to Bike Week including learn to cycle courses, mountain biking, and bike maintenance workshops, ensuring that children across Kilkenny experience the thrill and independence of cycling, whilst gaining valuable skills for the future.

Get Involved: All events are free, but some require prior registration due to limited spaces. Participants are encouraged to bring their own bicycles and safety gear.

For event schedules, registration details, and more information, visit www.bikeweek.ie. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #BikeWeek and tagging their local authority and Transport for Ireland @TFIUpdates.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Opinion News

Black bread and a pinch of tea

Callan baker Kevin Keogh delivering bread and customers in 1942

Part three

You couldnt escape rationing in 1940s Ireland

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

As the European war and our own “Emergency” dragged on, an Irish wise-cracker parodied a Vera Lynn song of the time, Bless 'em All, with his commentary on the latest rationing headache: “Bless De Valera and Sean McEntee, they gave us black bread and a half ounce of tea”. McEntee was Ireland’s wartime Minister for Industry and Commerce.

Clever bakers and even more ingenious housewives found ways of flouting the regulations. Seamus O’ Brien was in a farm dwelling at Bauntha where, to his surprise and delight, the farmer’s wife placed a freshly cooked loaf of mouth-watering white bread in front of him and his work mates. The

loaf was still warm and had to be cut with care to avoid breaking it up.

When Seamus politely queried how she managed to cook the white bread with flour that contained bran, she blushed and said nothing.

But her husband, a big muscular dairy farmer, laughed and offered to explain.

She had “hit” upon a cooking method that many other women around the country were quietly adopting in the kitchen: They packed quantities of the flour into silk stockings and sieved all the unwanted bran out of it, so the flour could once again be used to produce the finest of traditional Irish white bread.

Alongside the loaf that Seamus thought might have dropped like Manna from Heaven was a large dish of homemade farmer’s butter, with its distinctive “noncommercial” aroma. The farmer had cows galore and was able to separate cream

from the milk to produce butter, which, the young carpenter imagined, had a more tantalizing flavour than the kind one bought in shops or tasted in restaurants.

Tea and bread weren’t the only foods affected by shortages and rationing. Some fruits disappeared completely from shop shelves and you couldn’t get them for love or money: Bananas, oranges, and lemons became just fond memories to people who had long taken them for granted.

Some children grew up to be seven or eight years old before they saw any of these fruits. Coffee and chocolate became scarce, as did household items such as pots and pans for cooking.

And you needed ration coupons to buy clothes two and a half years into the war.

Seamus remembered seeing his first ration books in 1942. They had coupons of all colours with numbers. He

Emergency era Irish solidiers on the march wearring German like helmets

thought they had a frighteningly cold and intimidating look of authority about them.

Any violation of the rationing code was deemed both unpatriotic and unlawful.

From February 1942, gas was severely rationed, being available for only a few hours a day. Since the limited coal supplies were needed for industry, many households had to do without it altogether. This affected the towns and cities more than rural areas, where people were well used to burning turf, and also accustomed to living without electricity.

But country-dwellers didn’t escape Emergency restrictions either. While they had their turf fires to keep them warm, augmented by bits of firewood they collected in the countryside, they used oil lamps to illuminate their homes and farm outhouses… and Paraffin oil was scarce too, which made it necessary for country folk to seek alternative sources of light.

Candles seemed an obvious and viable substitute, but here too there was a snag: The supply of candles had also dwindled owing to wartime restrictions. So what could be done?

In the Callan district, local cunning and initiative again saved the day…and helped to brighten up the blacked-out homes. Country folk made their own candles from suet or animal fat.

Seamus marvelled at the process. “I saw it at a house in Modeshill in late 1943”, he recalled, “the farmer dropped big dollops of fat into a huge saucepan and it boiled on the hob for ages.

The fat had been removed lovingly with a carving knife from the best of Callan Hairy Bacon. Normally you’d not leave a trace of it on your plate, but it was ideal for candle making.

“When it had been well and

truly melted, he poured the red hot liquid into the hollow steel barrels of old bicycle pumps into which he had inserted long strings of hemp, which he had knotted at the ends of the barrels.

“He then let the fat cool in these long narrow containers. When each portion was solid, he extracted it. Then he cut up the pieces into perfect homemade candles.

The bit of string left protruding from each candle served as a wick.”

Seamus experienced a memorable mishap one day later in the Emergency when he and Sean Holden (the future renowned Callan community activist) were helping a farmer to make candles.

The farmer had turned out three-dozen bicycle pump length candles and informed the lads that they just needed to allow these to cool off for a while.

The farmer had to travel into Callan for a trailer-load of pig mash and left the two volunteers to complete the operation, promising them a candle each for their trouble.

He planned to cut the lengths into standard size candles upon his return.

Sean, who was by then a much-admired intelligence officer in the LDF, (one of the youngest to hold this position in Ireland) suggested that the solidified lengths of fat be left in a water barrel in the farmyard, and Seamus agreed that this was a nifty idea.

Unknown to the zealous candle-making assistants, however, the farmer had three sheepdogs and a terrier loose in the farmyard. They also failed to take into account the fact that, since the candles were made of animal fat, the dogs might take a shining to them. (Extract From Are We Invaded Yet?) To be continued..

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Easter commemoration

Easter commemoration at Freshford Kilkenny Historical Re-Enactors

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Michael McCarthy and Jim Dalton

Poems were read by Eleanor Cantwell, Rita Campion, and Julie Greenstead. ‘The Dying Rebel’ and ‘Grace’ were performed by Gillian Queally and accompanied by Mary Kelly, Gary Barnaville and Comhaltas

Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere TD

The annual Easter Commemoration ceremony was held on The Green in Freshford at noon on Sunday 20th of April. Members of Kilkenny historical re-enactors led the parade, followed by the

flying column with Kilkenny Historical Re-Enactors.

The event was MC’d by John Meagher, who opened the ceremony. The Proclamation was read by newly elected TD for the area, Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere.

Poems were read by Eleanor Cantwell, Rita Campion, and Julie Greenstead. As always, Gillian Queally excelled in her rendition of ‘The Dying Rebel’ and ‘Grace’, accompanied by Mary Kelly, Gary Barnaville and

Comhaltas.

Local Councillor and Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Michael McCarthy laid a wreath at the flag pole while the tricolour was raised by local man Jim

Dalton. Cllr McCarthy thanked the large crowd who attended and all those who organised and participated in any way.

Refreshments were served afterwards in the local Community Hall.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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News

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 117

"What are your plans this summer?"

Urgent plea in Dáil: Call for state support for 4-yearold William Jonathan Moore’s critical treatment

BY NATASHA NEWSOME DRENNAN - TD

Sinn Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome Drennan, recently raised the urgent case of 4-year-old William Jonathan Moore in the Dáil. During this address, she called for state support to help William access necessary treatment.

Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan highlighted the urgent case of four-year-old William Jonathan Moore from Kilkenny, who has been diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

It is deeply concerning to learn that there is no treatment available for this rare and life-threatening condition in Ireland, and we acknowledge the immense challenges William's family faces as they seek support to access treatment at Boston Children’s Hospital.

Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan stated: ‘At the beginning of April,

I raised with the Taoiseach in the Dáil, the urgent case of William Jonathan Moore.

William is a four-year-old boy from Kilkenny who has been diagnosed with the life-threatening condition Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.'

“This condition is such a rare medical condition for which there is currently no treatment available in Ireland. William has been accepted for treatment at Boston Children’s Hospital in the United States, which offers the specialized care he needs, however, I have learned that the Treatment Abroad Scheme does not presently cover medical treatments in the United States. In the past, we have seen bespoke arrangements made for children whose only option for treatment was in the United States”.

At the moment, the current situation regarding William's treatment is that, his future is dependent on the goodwill of the public through a GoFundMe page and local fundraisers.

Having communicated

with the Taoiseach regarding William's need for treatment, I requested that the Minister for Health and the HSE work directly with William's family to ensure he receives the necessary support to access this treatment.

I strongly believe that the State has a fundamental duty of care to children like William, ensuring they can access vital medical treatment, whether that treatment is available in Ireland or abroad.

Both I and Williams family strongly welcomed the Taoiseach’s positive response and commitment to explore William's case.

We strongly welcomed his statement, "If treatment is only available in the U.S., we should address that," and his request for more details.

It has now been four weeks since I raised William's case in the Dáil.

Four weeks and in that time, neither I nor William's family have received any update, despite our requests for information.

Four weeks since the

Taoiseach stated in the Dáil, "If it is only available in the US, we should do something about that. I will come back to the Deputy about it and will talk to the Minister for Health." ‘’It is not acceptable for the Taoiseach and the Minister for Health to leave this family in the Dark.

On Tuesday in the Dáil I raised William’s case once again with the Taoiseach.

The Taoiseach acted as if he was unaware of the Williams case. However, he did agree to meet with me to discuss William’s case after his speaking engagement had concluded.

I waited patiently to meet with the Taoiseach, only to watch him cut and run as soon as speaking had concluded.

This is extremely disappointing from the Taoiseach.

It is crucial that the Taoiseach follows through on his commitment to speak with the Minister for Health and work towards finding the necessary supports for William to access treatment.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

News themes in an iconic setting that is St Canice’s Cathedral.

Or come to the magnificent and magical setting St Mary’s Cathedral to hear a breathtaking violin and piano recital with world-class artists.

Speaking to artistic director Patrick Rafter, a Kilkenny man and celebrated as one of Ireland’s

Patrick Rafter

Barry Douglas

finest classical musicians, it is clear he aims to spread a love of classical music in his home city “Whether you’ve never been to a classical music concert before, or whether you’re a seasoned music aficionado – there's incredible joy to be experienced in each one of the festival’s concerts! Come and see for yourself - I can personally guarantee that you will have a wonderful time and feel truly welcomed and overjoyed by the music!”

On Sunday 11th May, Patrick Rafter will conduct the 80 person strong Irish Doctors Orchestra in an incredible concert featuring a breathtaking programme of movie themes alongside Tchaikovsky’s ‘Swan Lake’. Star Wars, Wicked,

Pirates of the Caribbean, and the iconic Schindler’s List theme that Patrick will perform from the violin.

On Friday 16th May, Barry Douglas will perform the incredible Mussorgsky's ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’ - a work that earned him 1st Prize Gold Medal at the Tchaikovsky International Piano Competition in Moscow. Douglas will be joined by Rafter for the sensational and epic César Franck Sonata for violin and piano.

All details and tickets can be found at www. marblecitymusicfestival.com and tickets are also available from Frank Wall Man’s Shop in Kilkenny City. Tickets from just €25. Follow the festival on Instagram and Facebook to see some videos of all the performers.

Patrick Rafter conducts an 80-piece orchestra this weekend in St. Canice’s Cathedral - Star Wars, Schindler’s List, Wicked and much more An evening at the Oscars An 80 piece orchestra performing your movie favourites such as Star Wars, Wicked, or Schindler’s List in the incredible setting of

St Canice’s Cathedral? Or how about witnessing quite literally one of the world's greatest pianists, Barry Douglas, join sensational Irish violinist, Patrick Rafter in a breathtaking program at

St. Mary’s Cathedral?

The Marble City Music Festival is delighted to present these two concerts this weekend on Sunday 11th and Friday 16th May. Come and hear your favourite film

Winners announced in the “Fado, Fadó Sparking Memories” competition 2025 Mayor Andrew McGuinness with Patrick Gallagher, 1st Place Junior Category.

Group picture of attendees

Photos by Ro Photography Kilkenny's love for local history came alive through the Fado, Fadó Young Researchers Primary School Competition, which invited pupils across Kilkenny to delve into family stories, landmarks, and historical events. The response was overwhelming, with

over 100 entries showcasing imagination, originality, and heartfelt connections.

A prize-giving ceremony was held at Rothe House on April 28th, where children, parents, and teachers along with library staff and invited guests witnessed the winners receiving trophies, vouchers, and educational experiences

for their classes and a visit to the library. Speakers at the event were Senator Malcolm Noonan, Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District Cllr. Andrew McGuinness, Director of Services from Kilkenny County Council, Fiona Deegan, and Ian Coulter from Kilkenny Archaeological Society.

In the Senior Category: 1st

place went to Beatrice Mealy, Presentation Convent N.S. Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny & 2nd place to Annie Comerford, St. John of God, Upper New Street, Kilkenny.

In the Junior Category: 1st place went to Patrick Gallagher, Clara National School & 2nd place went to Katie Shortt, Clara National

School.

There were also highly commended entries by pupils who also attended the event and received book tokens.

The Judges praised the outstanding quality and diversity of the projects, which ranged from personal family histories to local landmarks and even international connections. The organisers who collaborated on the project including

Kilkenny County Council Library Service, Kilkenny Archaeological Society, and Rothe House Trust and Garden are thrilled with the success, and plan to expand the competition to post-primary level next year, continuing to foster a passion for history and community pride among Kilkenny's youth.

The winning projects, alongside other commendable entries, are digitised and are accessible on the Kilkenny Library Digital Archive.

Senator Malcolm Noonan with Beatrice Mealy, 1st Place Senior Category

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ANZAC Day

Chantelle Taylor (Australian Embassy), James Hazell, (Australian Embassy), Michael Gaskin (New Zealand Embassy) , Alper Özcan (Turkish Embassy), Cllr Michael McCarthy ( Cathaoirleach Kilkenny County Council) Cllr. Andrew McGuinness (Mayor of Kilkenny), Cllr Fergal Browne (Cathaoirleach Carlow County Council) and Cllr Declan Barry (Waterford Co. Council)

O.N.E. and U.N members of Irish Army pictured at the World war 1 monument for Anzac Day

ANZAC Day at Kilkenny Peac Photos: Pat Shortall The sun shone as over 100 people gathered at Kilkenny’s Peace Park.

Representatives from Australia, Turkey and New Zealand were in attendance, as were people from many Irish counties. Also present were various politicians.

At 16.30 hours, Commandant Larry Scallan assumed his position. A long whistle sounded, and proceedings got underway.

It was Anzac Sunday, a day when those who fought in WWI were remembered. Guests of honour included Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael McCarthy and Cllr Andrew McGuinness, Mayor of Kilkenny. Representing the New Zealand embassy was Mr Michael Gaskin, Deputy Head of Mission while Australia was represented by Ms Chantell Taylor, the Australian Ambassador Designate and James Hazell, Chargé d’Affaires. Mr Alper Özcan, Deputy Head of Mission represented the Turkish embassy.

Dáil Éireann was represented by TDs John McGuinness, Catherine Callaghan, and Jennifer Murnane O’Connor. Cathaoirleach Cllr Fergal Browne represented Carlow

Mr. Alper Özcan addresses the gathering on Anzac Day at Kilkenny’s Peace Park

County Council while Cllr Declan Barry represented Waterford.

The event marked the 110th anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand landings at Gallipoli (now known as ANZAC cove). The sacrifice made by both countries during the eight-month long campaign quickly began to symbolize the emergence of their national identity. The Kilkenny Great War Memorial stands testament to over 830 men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice during the Great War. Like all soldiers who were recruited in Ireland during the war, Anzacs were volunteer soldiers. Conscription was never introduced in Ireland, Australia, or New Zealand. Each year, on April 25th, Australians and New Zealanders come together to honour their people who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations. ANZAC stands for ‘Australian and New Zealand Army Corps’ and is one of the most important national celebrations across Australia and New Zealand. 123 people from Kilkenny served in the Anzac forces. Twenty-two soldiers and one nurse died.

Brock Lewin from Australia who read a prayer of remembrance for Anzac day

Thanks Kilkenny Chantell Taylor from the Australian embassy thanked the large attendance for remembering the brave men and women who participated with the Anzacs. “This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli landings and I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee for organising today’s ceremony,” said Ms Taylor.

Chantell explained that Anzac Day is a sacred day of national remembrance for Australia and New Zealand.

Before dawn on the 25th of April 1915, the first soldiers of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps – the Anzacs – landed on the shores of Gallipoli. That same day, 27kms away, Irish troops from the Royal Dublin Fusiliers and the Munster Fusiliers, landed at ‘V’ beach at Cape Hellas. The Anzac and Irish regiments were part of a broader British and French-led campaign aiming to neutralise the Turkish artillery preventing Allied naval forces from reaching Constantinople.

Concluding her speech the Ambassador designate said “Since 1915, Anzac Day has become one

Australian Ambassador designate Chantell Taylor who spoke at the Anzac commemoration

of the most important dates in our calendar. At first, it gave people a chance to honour the original Anzac’s but has since become a day to honour all who have worn our countries’ uniforms in service.”

Humbled Speaking on behalf of the Turkish government Alper Özcan spoke of attending his first Anzac day celebration in the Grangegorman Military Cemetery. “Being there under the soaking rain and cold and in the presence of the Martyrs and heroes of the Great War was a humbling experience,” said Mr Ozcan.

“Today,” continued Alper “I am honoured to speak to you here at the Great War memorial in Kilkenny, and to say that one of the aims of the Great War was to dismantle the Ottomans, and the Gallipoli campaign was meant to be lethal maneuver en route to realize invasion of İstanbul, which would knock the Empire out of the war and therefore would ease the transport of military aid from the Great Britain and France to the Russian Empire. Instead it became one of the turning points

Deputy Head of Missions from the New Zealand Embassy Mr Michael Gaskin who addressed the attendance at the war memorial in Kilkenny

of Turkish history. As we fought a life and death struggle, we have also found our national identity,” concluded Mr Özcan.

Profound place The New Zealand embassy was represented by Mr Michael Gaskin, Deputy Head of Mission who said “Anzac Day holds a profound place in New Zealand’s national identity. Each year on April 25th, we pause to remember the bravery and sacrifice of the New Zealand soldiers who fought alongside Australian troops in the First World War. This campaign, though a military defeat, marked a defining moment for New Zealand as a nation, helping to forge a distinct sense of identity. On this day, we honour not only those who lost their lives at Gallipoli, but also all New Zealanders who have served and continue to serve in conflicts around the world.”

Tormented lives Closing proceedings at the War memorial, Donal Croghan thanked the attendance at the South East Ireland commemorations event to remember those who served and died with the ANZAC Forces

New Zealander Bernie Bass who read a prayer at Anzac day

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ANZAC Day

Photographed atttending Anzac Sunday were from left: Deputy head of missions at the Turkish Embassy Mr Alper Özcan, Mr James Hazell, Chargé d’Affaires at The Australian Embassy, Cllr. Andrew McGuinness , Mayor of Kilkenny, Chantell Taylor, Ambassador designate, Australian Embassy, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Michael McCarthy, Mr Michael Gaskin, Deputy head of missions of the New Zealand Embassy

e Park in WWI. Donal reminded the gathering that Anzacs from Ireland included 18 from Carlow, 29 from Kilkenny, 61 from Tipperary, 36 from Waterford and 28 from Wexford. The chairman also asked the attendees to remember those who survived the conflict and returned home, many of whom suffered from injuries and mental torment for the rest of their lives.

Music on the day was provided

by The Unity Singers and director John O’Neill, while piper Finbarr McCarthy played ‘The Pipers Lament’ and ‘Amhrán na bhFiann’.

‘Reveille’ and ‘The Last Post’ were performed by John Egan and Christine Kavanagh, during which the Irish flag was raised by Bobby Kearney (O.N.E.). Other participants on the day included New Zealander Bernie Bass, Australian Brock Lewin, and Edward Carson.

Great credit must go to the Great War Memorial committee who spent many hours in preparing the day and to Mr Ray Brophy for supplying and operating the sound. Mary Anne Maher was in charge of administration, while St. Canice’s Credit Union sponsored the wreath holders.

Commandant Larry Scallan (retired) gives a salute during the playing of The Last Post

Carlow/Kilkenny T.D. John McGuinness pictured with Army representatives at The Anzac commemoration at Kilkenny’s Peace park

Piper Finbarr McCarthy pictured with Guy and Christine Jones

Wreath laying order

Gus Hennessy, O.N.E. Kilkenny branch, laid a wreath in honour of fallen comrades

2nd Lieutenant Dean Bray represented James Stephens barracks

• Cathaoirleach Cllr. Michael Mc Carthy and Mayor Cllr. Andrew McGuinness.

• Australian Embassy Chantell Taylor • Deputy Head of Mission Mr Michael Gaskin, New Zealand Embassy • Deputy Head of Mission Mr Alper Özcan of the Turkish Embassy • Carlow County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Fergal Browne • Waterford City and County Council Cllr Declan Barry.

• Representative of the Commanding Officer 3RD Infantry Battalion James Stephens Barracks, Second Lieutenant, Dean Bray • Sergeant J.P. Holland of Kilkenny Garda Station • Kilkenny Fire Service, Mr John Collins, Chief Fire Officer • President of the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee Mr Paddy Horohan • Representing the 18th Regiment of Foot Royal Irish Regiment and South Irish Horse Association, Mrs Ann Marie Cosgrave • Representing the O.N.E South Tipperary Branch, Tony Cosgrave • O.N.E. Kilkenny Branch, Mr Gus Hennessy • U.N.Veteran’s Commandant (retired), Mr Larry Scallan • Edward and Janette Carson on behalf of Moree RSL, New South Wales • Representative of St Canice’s Credit Union, Ms Jackie Kealy and Collette Comerford

Edward Carson, who read the Ode of remembrance on Anzac day in Kilkenny

Jackie Kealy and Colette Comerford from St Canice’s Credit Union pictured with Paddy Horohan, President of Kilkenny Great War Memorial committee

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

News

Shaws announces exciting new partnership with leading Spanish fashion brand Cortefiel

Launch of public consultation for SouthEast EV strategy “Region 5” consisting of Tipperary, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford City and County Councils are seeking public input to inform the development of a regional EV Strategy. The goal of the strategy is to address the challenges and opportunities in deploying EV charging infrastructure in the SouthEast region.

Public consultation opens on May 1st and runs until 4pm on May 30th 2025. This consultation invites residents, stakeholders, and the general public to share their views and input on the future of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in their areas.

By developing a comprehensive network of strategically located charging stations, the strategy is

intended to support the growing number of EVs on our roads, ensuring that all areas are adequately served and help meet our climate action targets.

The Regional and Local EV Charging Network Plan published for consultation

by ZEVI (Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland) in 2024 sets out minimum charging capacity requirements for local authorities per geographical area. En-route charging along major highways and travel routes are being supported separately by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

As part of this regional consultation, stakeholders are asked to consider two key types of local charging infrastructure when providing their inputs:

•Destination charging which involves installing charging stations at popular destinations such as shopping centres, hotels, and tourist attractions.

•Neighbourhood charging focuses on providing charging options within residential areas, making it easy for EV users to charge their vehicles convenient to their residence.

Your feedback will be instrumental in developing a comprehensive EV charging infrastructure strategy that meets the needs of our communities and facilitates sustainable transport.

The questionnaire is accessible at the following web address (www. southeastevstrategy.com) from May 1st until 4pm on May 30th 2025.

Shaws Department Stores, a trusted leader in fashion and retail, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Cortefiel, bringing its spring – summer 2025 collection to 10 Shaws locations across Ireland, as well as online. Customers now have the opportunity to explore this hugely popular Spanish brand.

Cortefiel is celebrated for its commitment to high-quality fabrics and adaptable designs that easily complement any wardrobe. This collection seamlessly blends directional pieces with modern updates, making it the perfect choice for those seeking effortless style for any occasion.

Emma Hill, Head of Buying for Shaws says "We are delighted to welcome Cortefiel to Shaws this spring, offering our customers a beautifully curated collection that blends timeless elegance with modern versatility. With a focus on quality fabrics and effortless comfort, Cortefiel’s Spring-Summer 2025 collection is designed for everyday style, making it easy to feel confident and chic.”

Cortefiel is a fashion brand that emphasizes timeless elegance by incorporating key trends, including marine inspired elements with crisp blue and white tones for a fresh balanced look. Bold colour blocking also makes a statement, featuring vibrant yellow, navy blue, and army green. Additionally, the collection embraces classic preppy and varsity styles, offering a fresh edge to traditional designs.

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Book launch

125 West Street launche

Friends of Willie Egan; Sue Jordan, Fergus Heffernan, Clare Gibbs and Ursula Egan

Recently, The Kilkenny Observer attended the launch of Willie Egan’s eagerly anticipated novel, 125 West Street. The ballroom of the Club House Hotel was packed to capacity as family and friends of the author turned out to support the Mullinahone born writer.

From a theatrical perspective, the Club House holds a unique place in the annals of Kilkenny theatre, having played host to many of Colm Lynch, Willie Egan , Aoife Graham and Ida Graham

Ireland’s most famous companies who performed in the 800 seater Theatre, at that time situated next door. During the 1980s, the much admired Kilkenny group Pan Players performed for a number of years in this very ballroom presenting a series of one act plays that added vibrant lustre to the summer months.

By allowing the hotel premises to be used by local Thespians during the height of the tourist season,

Jim Brennan displayed a degree of altruism that was astounding in its generosity. Theatre in Kilkenny owes Jim and the Brennan family an enormous debt of gratitude. It is no exaggeration to say that at a time when Kilkenny theatre led a nomadic existence, Jim Brennan and the Club House Hotel were instrumental in sustaining the arts in our medieval city. Today, the Club House continues to thrive un-

der the astute guidance of Ian and Joanna and their professional and dedicated staff, proving the hotel to be an ideal venue for tourists and locals alike.

The title, 125 West Street brings to mind television shows such as Murder, She Wrote, Father Brown, Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and Columbo. In actual fact the title is taken from the address where the character from the novel, Charlie McCann, lived when he worked in England. Primarily, this is a love story for which there is no scientific, philosophical or therapeutic accountability. A love story that weaves forward and backwards through twenty years of youthful discovery as it searches for an often elusive shore.

This novel is a first from the pen of Willie Egan. However, it is by no

means the first time he has created artistic work. Words, and the use of words are important to Willie Egan.

The Mullinahone man goes along the lines of Con Houlihan who said “any man who misplaces an apostrophe, is capable of anything.”

Professionally, Willie Egan has his own private practice talk-therapy clinic in Kilkenny for more than 25 years, having trained with PCI college Dublin, with whom he graduated to become one of their faculty lecturers. Choosing to work predominantly with teenagers who find life difficult for whatever reason, there’s a chapter in the book which explains his raison d’etre for the same. He was a regular visitor to the Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny and was always happy to chat about a production he had seen. One of the most pleasing things about Wil-

Former Tipperary hurler John Leahy and Mullinahone actor Eugene O’Meara

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Book launch

d at Club House

Author of 125 West Street, Willie Egan, photographed with Madeline Nugent Polcer who designed the cover of the book

Sean O’Sullivan and Paula Drohan

Donna and Marina Butler who were in charge of book sales

Cllr David Fitzgerald

Mark Turner from Marble City Publishing, who edited Willie Egan’s book

lie was that he was unafraid to voice an opinion. He would regularly and vociferously challenge the status quo. He would of course listen to other people’s opinions and more importantly respect them. Hardly surprising, he was after all a counsellor.

Willie wasn’t content with the role of theatre goer, he wanted to create his own works and present them to the public. Once more he diligently applied himself and he wrote and presented five productions at the Watergate. Each production was skilfully crafted, was rich in content, abounded in humour and contained pertinent life messages.

Invariably, Willie always ensured his productions delivered a song or two. Each play was treated with extreme professionalism, refined and polished by the author, director and cast.

Willie Egan is a writer who dares

Members of Lake Productions Kilkenny; Ger Cody, Clare Gibbs, Brendan Corcoran and Fergus Heffernan

to challenge himself, who alone and unaided walks unchartered byways and with unswerving determination and belief bares his soul in the public domain. With his latest work 125 West Street Willie Egan has voyaged to previously unexplored horizons.

By publicly divesting himself of an-

other dream that dares to become reality, Willie Egan has cemented his place as a writer of the highest calibre.

Opening proceedings at the launch, Cllr David Fitzgerald congratulated Willie on his work while friends from the theatre fraternity;

Clare Gibbs, Fergus Heffernan, Brendan Corcoran and Ger Cody launched and also read from the book and from previous plays written by Willie. Speaking to the attendees, Mr Egan thanked everyone for attending the launch. He paid a special word of thanks to Madeline

Nugent Polcer who designed the book cover and to Mark Turner who edited the book.

125 West Street is available from Khans bookshop on James’ Street and The Book Centre on High Street.

Willie Egan with friend Patrick Cummins

Cathal McFarlane and Liz Kett

Roy Elmes, Linda Elmes and Mary Cowen

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Bishop Niall Coll

Being a Christian is fundamentally abou

Homily of Bishop Niall Coll at Mass for Pope Francis RIP St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny My phone started ringing within minutes following media reports of the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. Even though he has been ill, his death came as a shock to most of us. Immediately, a media statement had to be written, interviews with the local radio stations followed and, of course, the numerous discussions with family,

friends and colleagues about his life and legacy. That done and having, like most of you, listened and read so much by way of comment, praise and criticism of Pope Francis, I don’t feel the need to give any big overview of his life and ministry just now. Instead, I want to highlight that when I used to talk to student teachers about Pope Francis, I found

Archbishop John Neill joined with Bishop Niall Coll

it helpful to put it all in a nutshell and say that as far as he (and others) were concerned, being a Christian is fundamentally about embracing our head, hands and heart. That if we want to understand what Christian faith really offers - not just as tradition, but as a way of life in the here and now - we must appreciate how these three elements work

together. Pope Francis often spoke to this reality. He knew that the modern world is sceptical - Doubting Thomas in our Gospel today has many descendants!

First, the head and the need to think faithfully and honestly. Society today values the mind. Critical thinking, philosophy, science, reason - they are treasures. And,

Rev Billy Burke from St Canice's Cathedral is welcomed to St Mary’s Cathedral

by Bishop Coll

believe me, they are not enemies of faith. God gave us intelligence as a gift. Christian faith has always honoured reason - the oldest and most venerable universities like Bologna, Paris, Oxford were founded by the Church. But the Church asks that reason be open to wonder, not closed by cynicism. As Pope Francis said “Faith broadens the horizons of reason.” It does not replace it. It enlarges it.

Real faith is not blind obedience. It is not about shutting down difficult questions or pretending everything is easy. Faith invites us to think more deeply - about what truth is, what justice means, what it means to live well and fully. Pope Francis repeatedly reminded us that a faith which is just ‘theory’ - ideas floating far from life - becomes sterile. Our heads must search - and must also be humble. We must be willing to admit that not everything essential fits into a neat formula.

Love, meaning, forgiveness - these cannot be measured like a scientific equation, but they are no less real.

Second, the hands - serving in practical ways. Pope Francis said often “A faith without solidarity is a dead faith.” Hands are how faith becomes visible. Words and ideas are important - but they must lead to action. Christianity, if it is true, must be seen not just in prayer and creeds, but in care. That’s why in his preaching, teaching and travels, the Pope constantly emphasised the

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Bishop Niall Coll

t embracing our head, hands and heart

Mayor Andrew McGuinness greets Bishop Coll

Dr Jacqui Wilkinson, Archbishop John Neal, Rev Katherine Kehoe, Rev Billy Burke, Bishop Adrian Wilkinson, Bishop Niall Coll, Mayor Andrew McGuinness, Kilkenny Cathaoirleach Michael McCarthy and Laois Cathaoirleach Padraig Fleming

importance of feeding the hungry, protecting the vulnerable, the migrant, the unborn, the sick, the elderly, building peace and living honestly. Happily, in his travels to the peripheries he was able to visit many hospitals and schools that were established (and often currently maintained) by church personnel - long before it was fashionable - out of his conviction that human life has dignity. Today, that same spirit is needed. When we as Church, you and me and all people of faith, stretch out our hands - to work for the poor, to lift up the refugee and the addicted, to heal divisions in our communities - then faith becomes visible again.

Third, the heart - loving with courage and tenderness. The head and the hands are still not enough, Pope Francis reminded us, without the heart. The heart is where our deepest desires live: the longing for love, for meaning, for home.

The place of our intimate prayer.

Scepticism often grows because people have seen a Christianity without heart — cold, judgmental, rigid. But that is not the Gospel.

The Gospel is first and foremost a revolution of the heart. Pope Francis spoke of a ‘revolution of tenderness.’

He said tenderness is not weakness, but strength. It takes courage to love without walls. To trust. To forgive.

To weep with those who weep. The heart, in the end, is where we meet Christ not as an idea, but as a person.

Christianity is not about ideas in the sky. It is not about rules carved in stone. It is - as so boldly unfolded in the encounter with Doubting Thomas today - about meeting Jesus Christ - alive, present, calling us to love. As Pope Francis put it “God does not tire of forgiving us. We are the ones who tire of seeking His mercy.” Something we can rightly

ponder on this ‘Mercy Sunday’.

The heart is where hope is born again. It is where scepticism can soften — not because every question has been answered, but because we have encountered a greater love than we could invent. And this brings conversion, change: discipleship expressed in love of both God and neighbour. We become ‘pilgrims of

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Michael McCarthy, pictured with Bishop Coll

hope’ a theme close to the pope’s heart this Jubilee Year 2025. Let me include these words of Pope Francis: “Brothers and sisters, Christian faith does not impose - it proposes.

It invites, it opens a door, it calls.

It does not crush reason; it expands it.

It does not replace action; it animates it.

It does not kill the heart; it awakens it.

You do not have to leave your questions behind to follow Christ.

You do not have to erase your doubts to serve others.

You do not have to pretend life is simple.”

Pope Francis tells us again and again “The Church is not a museum for saints, but a field hospital for the wounded. If you feel wounded - if you feel sceptical - you are in the right place.” Here is where God wants to meet you - head, hands and heart - together. As to a simple path forward: might I suggest the following as daily practices: • Feed your head: read a Gospel

Rev Katherine Kehoe with Bishop Coll

story, even if it’s just a few verses.

Reflect, ponder, question. Let it speak to you.

• Move your hands: do one concrete act of service for a neighbour, a stranger, a colleague.

• Open your heart: pray, even simply, ‘Lord, I believe, help my unbelief’.

The Lord does not force the door open, but He stands there, knocking - not to control, but to invite you into a bigger, richer, more human life.

Pope Francis spoke not as a man from another time, but as someone who understood the struggles and hopes of our time. He reminded us that faith is never about escaping the world but about loving it more deeply. That is the Christian life. That is the life worth living.

May we commend Pope Francis’s soul to the love and mercy of God and pray that the same Lord will open our heads, our hands, and our hearts anew — to the beauty of His love. Amen.

Niall Coll, Bishop of Ossory.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Global Report Luis Antonio Tagle, the Philippine cardinal and ‘karaoke priest’ in the running for pope, is considered progressive and humble, but has faced some criticism for his response to the drug war and sexual abuse in the church.

The Filipino cardinal is among those tipped as a potential successor to Pope Francis. If appointed, he would be the first Asian pope in modern times.

Tagle, who goes by the nickname “Chito,” has been described as the Asian Francis, due to his progressive outlook and humble lifestyle. He has previously criticised the “harsh” stance toward single mothers, and people who are gay or divorced.

As Bishop of Imus, a city near Manila, he rode cheap public minivans and invited the destitute to eat with him.

Known as approachable and unpretentious, Tagle is also a fan of singing and dancing.

Videos of him on Tiktok have been shared widely, winning him the approval of many in the Philippines, where karaoke is practically a national sport, and beyond.

“When he speaks and gives lectures he’s not the usual, formal priest. He’s a Filipino.

He is a karaoke priest,” said Michael Xiao Chua, a historian at De La Salle University.

Tagle has an “off the cuff” style, and is like “a rock star” after mass, he added, saying he had seen volunteers circle around Tagle to manage queues of people wanting to greet him.

Tagle, 67, was born in Imus, near the capital region Metro Manila, to Catholic parents who worked in a bank.

“He’s [from] a very simple family – not poor but not rich,” said Mary John Mananzan, a missionary Benedictine sister who has known

The Asian Francis who could be Pope Tagle for more than three decades.

Tagle reportedly wanted to become a doctor, but entered the church after a priest tricked him into applying to a seminary in Quezon City.

He obtained a doctorate at the Catholic University of America and became Bishop of Imus and, later, Archbishop of Manila. He was made a cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012.

But his rise to the top echelons of the Catholic Church has not been without controversy. Tagle served as President of Caritas Internationalis from 2015 until 2022 when

the leadership team was removed due to concerns over mismanagement. At the time Tagle – who was not involved in day-to-day operations – said the decision did not relate to allegations of sexual abuse or mismanagement of money.

This March a survivors group, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, called for an investigation into Tagle, and five other cardinals, in relation to the handling of alleged child abuses cases by Caritas Internationalis in New Zealand and the Central African Republic.

Tagle has not commented on these calls.

Campaigners have said Tagle has not worked hard enough to tackle sexual abuse in the church.

Anne Barrett Doyle, codirector of BishopAccountability.org, said last week the church in the Philippines was in the “dark ages” on the issue, and that guidelines on dealing with allegations have not been published on the website of the Manila archdiocese or the Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

Questioning his suitability, she said: “If Cardinal Tagle cannot even get his brother

bishops from his home country to publish guidelines.

What on earth can we expect for him to achieve as pope of a global church?”

However the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines defended Tagle, stating that during his tenure as bishop of Imus and archbishop of Manila he had “actively participated in the development and implementation” of guidelines on handling sexual abuse cases but that he “no longer holds direct authority over any diocese in the Philippines”.

Tagle, it said, “has consistently advocated for a hum-

ble and responsive Church that listens to the cries of the wounded and acts decisively to protect the vulnerable.”

In the Philippines, Tagle has also been accused of being slow to condemn former Philippine president Rodrigo Duterte’s so-called war on drugs.

As many as 30,000 people were killed in the crackdowns, which began after Duterte took office in June 2016. Many victims were young men, who were shot dead in the streets.

In 2017, Tagle wrote a pastoral letter criticising the killings, saying: “We cannot govern the nation by killing. We cannot foster a humane and decent Filipino culture by killing.” However, some say he should have spoken out more clearly earlier.

Duterte’s war on drugs marked a difficult chapter for the Catholic Church in the Philippines. Some priests risked retaliation by criticising the killings, and despite international outrage over the killings, Duterte remained highly popular among the Catholic-majority population.

Mananzan said Tagle was not “the condemning type”.

“He had very strong statements about the extrajudicial killings… But he never [talked] about Duterte as a person.”

Tagle opposed the passing of the Reproductive Health Bill in the Philippines, which offered free contraceptives and information on family planning. He also opposes abortion rights.

Were Tagle to be appointed pope, it would be met by huge celebrations in the Philippines, where 80% of the population is Catholic.

– News agencies

The Conclave: the secrecy... and then some food Cardinals may feel some urgency to get in a good meal or two because, during the Conclave which began on May 7, in which 135 cardinals will hold a secret election for a new pope in the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel, they’ll be entirely secluded from the rest of the world for an indefinite period of time.

Voting, sleeping and eating all take place in tightly controlled sequestration.

Papal conclaves are notoriously secretive affairs.

The cardinals are secured in a single shared space with no messages allowed in or out, except for the smoke signalling whether a vote has been successful.

White smoke signals a new pope and black means another vote is required to reach the two-thirds-plusone consensus required to crown a new pontiff. What precisely occurs in these conclaves is unknown, but one thing is certain: the

cardinals must eat over the days or weeks it takes to elect the new leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

But with provisions going in and out, how is the secrecy of the Conclave maintained?

How can the cardinals

ensure the integrity of the vote, unaffected by outside opinion?

Historically, food has presented a potential risk: a cardinal’s ravioli might be stuffed with an illicit message from the kitchen staff; or a cardinal could sneak a vote update to the outside world with a dirty napkin.

However, communal eating is also one of the contexts in which furtive negotiations can take place.

Recent pop culture representations have made the most of this, using conclave food culture to create a heightened sense of suspicion, intrigue and control.

Take the 2024 film Conclave, where almost all the plot points occur not in the voting chambers, but in the cafeteria. The noisy meals contrast with the almost entirely silent conclave proper, which

proceeds without formal debates. The otherwise silent voting is only sparingly punctuated by moments of ritual speech, like the audible oath a cardinal takes as he drops his voting card into the ballot urn.

Still, around the ceremonial silence is a great deal of communication, much of which happens with and via food. And while we can’t assume that the film faithfully depicts what happens behind closed doors, it is no doubt true that in papal food culture – as in culture more broadly – what you eat, how you eat and with whom you eat speaks volumes.

The code of conclave secrecy goes back to 1274, when Pope Gregory X established the regulations that still partly dictate how papal elections are run today. As with the coronation of many popes, his was controversial. It

also had the distinction of being by far the longest, taking almost three years (1268-1271) to reach the majority consensus required to appoint a new pope.

According to Italian canonist Henricus de Segusio, who served in that Conclave, local residents threatened to restrict the cardinals’ food to hasten a resolution.

The most detailed historical account of the food culture of papal conclaves comes from Bartolomeo Scappi, who was the Renaissance’s most famous chef (and arguably the world’s first celebrity chef) and served both Popes Pius IV and Pius V. His 1570 book, Opera Dell’Arte del Cucinare (The Art of Cooking) – the first cookbook published by a practicing chef – catapulted him to fame.

In it, he reveals the secrets of feeding the Conclave that elected Pope Julius III,

and the extreme practice of surveillance that. remains to this day.

According to Scappi, the cardinals’ daily meals were prepared in a communal kitchen by cooks and sommeliers, just two of the many domestic positions that kept a Conclave functioning. He identifies that the kitchen was a space where illicit messages could be shared, and notes that guards were stationed there specifically to prevent this.

Therefore, twice a day in an order determined by lottery, stewards would ceremoniously bring the food to the ruota. This “wheel” or turntable, built into the wall, allowed food and drink to be passed to the cardinals in their inner hall. Food and drinks were checked by testers to ensure they were not hiding any illicit messages. Every step was closely watched by Italian and Swiss guards.

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Recruitment

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Traveller Pride Week

Kilkenny Traveller Lives in Focus

Traveller Pride Week is an annual event that celebrates the community, ethnicity, identity, heritage and culture of the Traveller community in Ireland.

During Traveller Pride Week, both national and local events take place.

Traveller Pride events are designed to create a greater understanding and acceptance of Traveller culture in Irish society and highlight the many diverse talents and traditions within the Traveller community. It aims to

enable an appreciation of Traveller culture and Traveller contributions to the wider society. Traveller Pride also strives to move from the ‘deficit model’ to an ‘asset/strengths-based model’, which emphasizes individuals’ strengths, resources and potential for growth.

The Kilkenny Traveller Community Movement are proud to present ‘Unfiltered – Kilkenny Traveller Lives in Focus', a powerful photographic exhibition capturing the lived

experiences, culture, and community of Travellers in Kilkenny over the past 15 years. The exhibition will exhibit images from renowned photographer, Gypsy Ray, as well as images from the personal archives of local contributors. This exhibition shines a light on moments of joy, strength, resilience, and everyday life, through the eyes of those

who have lived it and those who have documented it with care.

This week, The Kilkenny Observer offers a sample of some photos that will be on display.

‘Unfiltered - Kilkenny Travellers Lives in Focus’ runs at the Mayfair Library, Parliament Street, Kilkenny from May 19 to 24.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

One-pan seafood roast with smoky garlic butter

Prep: 20 mins Cook: 40 mins Serves: 4 Give the Sunday roast a new look with hasselback potatoes and smoky, charred seafood, all cooked in one pan. Serve with bread for mopping up the buttery juices.

Beetroot hummus platter Ingredients • 2 x 400g can chick peas drained • 2 x 300g pack Morrisons Natural Cooked Beetroot drained • 2 small garlic cloves • 2 tbsp tahini • 100ml extra virgin olive oil plus a drizzle to serve • good squeeze of lemon juice • 2 tbsp toasted hazelnuts roughly chopped • 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds roughly chopped • 2 tsp nigella seeds • 1 tsp sumac (optional) • pinch of chilli flakes( optional) To serve (optional) • crunchy summer veg cut into batons (we used fennel, sugar snap peas, baby heritage carrots & radishes) • bread toasted and cut into fingers for dipping

STEP 2 Butterfly the prawns by cutting a line down the back of each one, through the shell from the base of the head to the top of the tail.

Pull out the black line of intestine from each one. Clean the mussels under cold water, pulling off any hairy or stringy bits. Hasselback the squid in the same way you did the potatoes.

STEP 3 Cut each corn cob into four pieces – the easiest way to do this is by positioning your knife, covering it with a tea towel and hitting it with a rolling pin. Add the corn to the tray, toss in the oil and return to the oven for 5 mins.

STEP 4 Mash together the butter, parsley, paprika, garlic and lemon zest.

Stuff some of the butter into the back of each prawn and inside the squids. Turn the oven up to 220C/200C fan/gas 6. Add the seafood, lemon wedges and chorizo to the pan and toss everything together. Dot the remaining butter over the top, season well and return to the oven for 10 mins. If any of the prawns haven’t turned pink or any mussels haven’t opened, move them around the pan to the hot spots, then return to the oven for another 2-3 mins. Remove and discard any mussels which haven’t opened.

Scatter some parsley over and serve.

Ingredients • 400g baby new potatoes • 1 tbsp olive or rapeseed oil • 2 corn cobs • 8-12 large prawns heads and shells on • 8-12 mussels or large clams (or a mixture) • 2 medium squids with tentacles, cleaned • 150g butter • small bunch parsley chopped, plus a little to serve • 1 tsp smoked paprika • 3 garlic cloves crushed • 1 lemonz ested then cut into wedges • 200g ring chorizo peeled and sliced

Prep: 15 mins Serves: 8

STEP 1 Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Use a large knife to hasselback the potatoes; cut incisions in each potato making sure you don’t cut through to the base, and keep the cuts as close together as possible.

Toss the potatoes in oil and some seasoning in your largest roasting tin (an oven tray is ideal – line with parchment first if it’s old). Roast for 20 mins.

• mini mozzarella balls • olives • prosciutto-wrapped breadsticks Method STEP 1 Set about 2 tbsp chickpeas aside.

Tip the rest of the chickpeas, the Morrisons Natural Cooked Beetroot, garlic, tahini, oil and lemon juice into a food processor with a good pinch of salt.

Blend until smooth, then check the seasoning, adding a little more salt or lemon if it needs it. Chill the hummus until you’re ready to serve (it will keep for up to two days).

STEP 2 Transfer the hummus to a wide, shallow bowl or spread over a platter. Drizzle with some oil, scatter with the reserved chickpeas, hazelnuts, seeds, sumac and chilli (if using). Arrange the crunchy veg and other accompaniments around the platter and let everyone dig in.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA SENIORS WIN Clara senior hurlers hit their first ball in anger on the local scene on Monday evening in Clara. They welcomed city side James Stephens for this Senior/ Intermediate league clash. Both sides were short a number of players but it was evident from an early stage that Clara possessed more experience in their ranks. Veterans like Kevin Nolan, Jack Langton, Conor O Shea, Liam Ryan and Chris Bolger provided the guidance for the young guns, four of them still minor - Luke Lawlor, Philip Carrigan, Davy Barcoe and Joe Power. With another group of lads in their early 20s like Paddy Bolger, Shane Staunton, Martin O Connell, Dara Glynn and Conor Cody as well as teenager Conor Hoyne the Clara blend proved to be a little more potent.

Clara were sharp from the outset and three early points by Conor Hoyne and Chris Bolger (2) saw them off to a flyer. The Village responded with four of their own before Conor Cody grabbed a scooped pass from Conor Hoyne and fired a terrific shot to the corner of the net. A Conor O Shea point was sandwiched between two Village points but then Chris Bolger brilliantly caught a Dara Glynn delivery and turned and hung the sliotar in the net. Davy Barcoe’s first point then moved Clara five points clear midway through the half but the Village then scored a peach of a goal when Ethan Butler turned on a sixpence and scored. Davy Barcoe and Conor Hoyne then tacked on points but the Village answered with two of their own. Again they were hit with a goal when Conor O Shea sensibly pulled on a ball and found the back of the net. A Liam Ryan point then made it a six point game and three further points from Joe Power, Conor Hoyne (free) and Dara Glynn as against two Village scores left the halftime score at 3-11 for Clara and 1-10 to the Village. Impressively all of Clara’s six forwards and both midfielders had scored at this juncture.

Clara got the first two scores of the second half through Conor Hoyne (free) and David Barcoe to move nine clear and they never really looked like losing it from here. Any chance that the Village had of staging a comeback evaporated when one of their midfielders got his marching orders for a second yellow card with about 12 minutes left to play.

Clara added points from Conor Hoyne (3), Liam Ryan, Dara Glynn, Shane Staunton and Chris Bolger and, despite conceding five of the game’s last six points , ran out comfortable 3-20 to 1-19 winners.

3-17 of their total had come from play and they certainly benefitted from a more direct approach, with the full forward line contributing 1-11 of their total.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Paddy Bolger, Shane Staunton 0-1, Jack Langton. Luke Lawlor, Martin O Connell, Philip Carrigan. Dara Glynn 0-2, Davy Barcoe 0-3.

Conor Cody 1-0, Conor O Shea 1-1, Liam Ryan 0-2.

Conor Hoyne 1-7, 0-3f, Chris Bolger 1-3, Joe Power 0-1. Subs used Brandon Ryan, Cian Kelly, Pádraic Staunton, Ben Murphy, Daniel Ryan.

GBC 1-26 CLARA 1-24 Just five days later Clara seniors lost out to Graigue Ballycallan on a beautiful sunny evening in Kilmanagh. Here they were short seven of the team that had beaten James Stephens but still put up a valiant performance in trying to secure the win.

Clara once again had a very good spread of scorers, nine here as against 10 against the Village, but came up just short.

Clara led 0-14 to 0-11 at the interval and when James Bergin got on the end of a fine move ignited by a powerful Chris Bolger run and flicked the sliotar past the GBC goalkeeper, the men in maroon were six clear and cruising. But after Conor Hoyne had exchanged scores with one of his opponents the Ballycallan lads scored seven of the game’s next eight points to tie the game. They kicked on impressively in that second half and just about deserved their narrow win. These sides meet again in the first round of the championship and there won’t be anymore than a point or two in it then either.

Team - Kevin Nolan 0-1f, Paddy Bolger, Zach Lawlor, Hugh Kelly. Harry Boyle 0-1, Martin O Connell 0-2f, Philip Carrigan. Davy Barcoe 0-1, Conor Cody.

Conor Hoyne 0–13, 0-8f, 0-1 x 65, Joe Connolly 0-2, James Bergin 1-0. Sean Carrigan, Chris Bolger 0-3, Cian Kelly 0-1. Subs used Brandon Ryan, Pádraic Staunton, Ben Murphy.

MINOR HURLING Clara lost out to high flying St. Lachtains in Fresh-

ford last Wednesday night. They led 2-9 to 2-7 at halftime, the goals coming from Orí Phelan and Joe Power. A terrific Davy Barcoe sideline cut point was a highlight of that first half.

Freshford outscored the Clara men 1-10 to 0-5 in the second half which was disappointing but four of these Clara players had played in the senior win over the Village just 24 hours earlier so it was understandable that a certain level of fatigue would set in. They still battled to the bitter end and when they have everyone available to them they will be very competitive this year.

Team - Ruairi Bowden Mullen, Tom Murphy, Daniel Ryan, Conor Galvin. Sam Lawlor, Luke Lawlor 0-1, Philip Carrigan. Davy Barcoe 0-5, 0-1f, 0-1 sideline, Hugh Kelly. Jack Byrne, Joe Power 1-7, 0-3f, 1x65, Mícheál Meany 0-1. Orí Phelan 1-0, Aidan O Connell, Sam Corr. Subs used Liam Treacy, Dara Leamy.

CLUB LOTTO Lotto Results 29 April 2025. The numbers drawn were 4,19,25. There was no winner. €30 Luck Dip to Maria Phelan, Mick Barcoe, Joe Casey, Jason Barcoe and James Crotty.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS TO THE SEA AND BACK Congratulations to the thirty intrepid cyclists who completed the 200 kilometre Pedal to the Sea fundraiser last Friday and Saturday. The considerable funds raised go towards the continuous development of facilities at O’Loughlin Gaels Club including a new Ball Wall and astro-turf area in St John’s Park and the development of new pitches in Dunmore, and also to the Laura Lynn charity’s children’s hospice.

The cyclists had a great send off from pupils from St. John’s Senior School as they departed St. John’s Park on Friday morning and backed by an excellent support team set out for Dungarvan. Travelling through Knocktopher, Mullinavat, Waterford city and the Waterford Greenway with a number of water and food stops on route all arrived safely in Dungarvan, where they were well looked after at Lawlor’s Hotel. The return journey to Kilkenny on Saturday was equally successful and a large crowd gave the heroes a great welcome on their arrival back to St. John’s Park.

Well done to everyone who participated. There was wonderful camaraderie among the group. A particular word of praise to Club vice-chairman Noel Buckley, who was organiser in chief of the event in addition to completing the cycle himself.

Thanks also to Eoin Lawlor, Paul Cleere, Stephen Mc Cormack, Sean Hogan, club chairman Nigel Leydon, Conor Denieffe, Joe Nolan, Ruth Comerford, Benny Cleere and Joan Galwey.

Thanks to everyone who donated. A night will be organised in the club in the near future to make a presentation to the club and Laura Lynn charity.

UNDER 14 FOOTBALL FINAL Commiserations to the O’Loughlin Gaels Under -14 footballers who put up a great performance in the Duggan Steel Roinn A final against Young Ireland’s before losing out to their hosts by 4-12 to 3-10. A slow start proved costly as they found themselves 3-2 to 0-1 in arrears after fifteen minutes. A rally in the lead up to half time included four pointed frees from Dan Comerford and a goal from Padraig Ryan reduced the deficit at half time to 3-4 to 1-5.

Things improved further for O’Loughlins after the break and by the three quarter way mark they had

taken the lead 2-9 to 3-5 with Padraig Ryan scoring his second goal and points from Eoghan Morrissey and Dan Comerford (3). Young Irelands responded with a goal of their own before Harry Trehy restored O’Loughlins lead with a goal. From here the Gowran team finished strongly and a succession of points saw them finish winners.

Well done to the O’Loughlin’s lads who played their part in an excellent game of football.

The team was Cathal Kelly, Cillian Murphy, Paddy O’Meara, Harry Concannon, Conor Doyle, Peter Quinn, Odhran Delaney, Harry Trehy, Jack Andrews, Eoghan Morrissey, Cillian Murray, Daniel Comerford, Padhraig Ryan, John Boy Hawe, Robbie Geoghegan.

Subs Michael Coogan, Leon Delaney, Rian Duffey, Joe Duggan, Stephen Mc Cormack, Billy O’Dwyer, Tadhg Power, Luke Mc Kenna, Ollie Morrissey, Con Roche.

COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES Well done to O’Loughlin’s Gaels’ players David Mc Gee, Adam Maher, Cian Byrne and Conor Holohan and manager Niall Bergin on Kilkenny minor hurling teams win over Dublin in O’Toole Park, Crumlin by 2-25 to 0-18 on Saturday last.

Also good to see O’Loughlin’s Laura Murphy, Laura Greene and Danielle Quigley all part of the Kilkenny Senior Camogie team which defeated Dublin in the Leinster semi-final by 4-11 to 2-12. The game was noteworthy for the protest by both sets of players against the wearing of Skorts.

1975 AND 1995 TEAMS REUNION Invitations have been sent out to the reunion which has been organised for the members of the 1975 and the 1995 O’Loughlin Gaels county final winning teams. The reunion will take place in the Clubhouse on Saturday 17th May at 8.30pm. It promises to be a night of nostalgia, stories and chat for the members of the victorious teams of thirty and fifty years ago.

O’ LOUGHLIN GAELS GAELIC GAMES FOR ALL Inclusive Gaelic Games for children with additional needs will be starting in O’ Loughlin Gaels on Monday 12th May at 6pm. This initiative is open to boys and girls between 6-17 years of age. This programme will be structured around non-contact Hurling, Gaelic football, Rounders and other fun games.

The most important part of this programme is that everybody has fun and is part of a team. Please note that you do not need to be a member of O’ Loughlin Gaels or from St John’s Parish to attend this programme. Everybody is welcome. We have a number of volunteers in place who are Garda vetted and have attended the relevant safeguarding training. The sessions will run for approximately 45 minutes each week and parents will need to be in attendance at all times. For more information please contact Philip O’ Reilly on (087) 4181020.

New volunteers always welcome. Kindly supported by: Kilkenny GAA and Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of OLoughlin Gaels club lotto dated April 29th. The numbers drawn were 4, 19, 20, 27 and the bonus number was 13. Play now at www. oloughlingaels.com Promotors Draw: 1. Kay O’Halloran. 2. The Sunday Six. 3. Sasha Webster c/o P Greene. 4. Ken Barry c/o B Maher. 5. Benny Cleere. 6. Rosie Hayes c/o P Greene. 7. Marie Cunningham c/o Ml Dolan. 8. Alan Brennan c/o Online. 9. Trish Maher c/o Online.10.

Karen Comerford c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

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

FRESHFORD GAA NEWS Darkness Into Light 2025: St. Lachtain’s GAA club will host a darkness into light walk around our walkway on the morning of May 10th again this year. All moneys raised will go to suicide awareness charities. All welcome to come along and join in this event St Lachtains GAA Club held a family fun day on Sunday last at the GAA grounds which was a huge success. The weather was lovely and there was a big attendance on the day with fun for all. Thanks to everyone that helped on the day, especially Cathal Power who organized the event. Congratulations to the Tullaroan and St Lachtain’s girls who won the camogie blitz and to St Lachtain’s boys who won the hurling blitz.

St Lachtains had a number of teams in action over the weekend. The Minor hurlers beat Clara at Pairc Lachtain by 3-17 to 2-14.

The Junior hurlers beat James Stephens at Palmerstown on a score of 2-19 to 2-13while the Intermediate side also came out victorious.

St. Lachtain’s intermediates play Blacks and Whites on Sunday next in Tom Walsh Park with throw in at 2pm.

CAMP Freshfords longest running camp will take place again this year from 28th July to 1st August at the GAA Grounds. The camp was founded by local man JJ Grace and has been running for over 20 years full of activity and fun. Places will be limited. For booking or for more information please contact JJ on 086 8629666 BIRTHDAYS Special birthday wishes go out to Betty Phelan Woodview, Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday last week. Betty was guest of honour at a surprise party in Kavanagh’s bar on Saturday night last marking reaching the 60 mark and is wished many more to come.

Birthday wishes also go out to Larry Maher, Lisdowney who celebrated his 60th birthday recently and his daughter Ciara who celebrated her 30th with her dad at Kavanagh’s Bar. FLOWER POWER Cullohill and Durrow Flower Club will host TJ Maher of Patthana Gardens who will give a talk on Grounded in the Garden - an artist guide to creating a beautiful garden in harmony with nature. The venue is Cullohil Community Centre on Monday evening next 12th May at 8pm.

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

DARTS Kavanaghs bar are the 2025 B League champions beating Connolly’s of Tullaroan in the final. The two experienced teams faced off and it was game for game and went right down to the wire. Kavanaghs started well and in the doubles Builder Walsh, David Gerber and Jack Boland all playing very well.

Connolly’s impressed too with performances from John Flynn Shane Hogan and Joe Norton to bring them back into the game. Vinnie Colclough then

Happy group of cyclists and support team pictured at the completion of O’Loughlin Gaels Pedal to the Sea

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Community & GAA Notes made it 4-4to bring it to the final game which saw Tom McGrath face John Connolly with Kavanaghs man hitting the winning double to take the title.

Shane Hogan gave a man of match performance on the night.

SOCCER In the schoolboys/girls section the U12 boys lost 2-0 in their semifinal, while the Girls U12 won 1-0 with a well worked goal between Lucia Stanley and Siun McCarthy. They are now in the cup final next Sunday in Derdimus Park at 10.30 am. Please support the girls in what is going to be a big day for them.

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

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

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

SPLIT THE POT The winner of Split the Pot last week was Rowan Carroll winning €172. The proceeds for the month of May will go to St. Lachtain’s Camogie Club and the draw will take place every Wednesday. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available at Loop café and in all local shops and pubs. Revolut is also available on 083 30411011 but remember to include your name and address.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for good people on both sides of the counter, so why not support your own local café, it makes sense to stay local. You can meet a friend for a chat and a cuppa or some lovely homemade food or try out their new tarts. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. If you’re great at fixing a door hinge, baking a cake, or working in a kitchen – or just willing to learn there’s got lots to do. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtain’s Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday.

Ionad Lachtain hosted a lecture recently by John G.O’Dwyer, Irish Times contributor, and Chairperson of Tipperary Tourism and Pilgrim Paths Ireland on Walkways, Walking trails, Pilgrim paths and their stories.

FOROIGE Foroige youth club meet each Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Community Hall They have music, a free library, stationary corner, games, chat and treats each week. New members are always very welcome. The youth club is members only so if you are interest in joining please go along and sign up. They are also looking for adult volunteers. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla Church on Saturday evening at7.30pm.

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week. Please note community

notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed

by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 2523521 JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB SENIOR / INTERMEDIATE LEAGUE After the disappointing showing earlier in the week in the first round of the 2025 Senior/Intermediate league, when beaten comfortably by Clara 3-20 to 1-19, the club’s Intermediate/Junior line-out somewhat redeemed themselves on Sunday morning with a far better display only going down to a late goal for Lisdowney in the closing minutes on a scoreline of 2-19 to 1-19 in sunny Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. An inform Niall Mullins got James Stephens off the mark with a well taken point in the first minute. As the high quality fixture continued and, with the sides level at 0-04 each in the 12th minute a precision pass from Ethan Butler for Tadhg O’Dwyer to fire to the net gave the home team a much needed boost. The serious physical contact play continued with both defences offering minimal opportunities to their opponents yet, Niall Mullins broke through for two more quality points in the 17th and19th minutes. Tadhg O’Dwyer added two points (22 and 26mins) from frees and in the 28th minute Tadhg won himself a penalty but slipped and injured himself for the goal attempt as the sliothar sailed over the crossbar for a 1-10 to 0-09 half time lead for The Village. The injured Tadhg did not reappear after the break which was an undoubted blow to the James Stephens’ cause.

An early run of scores which yielded Lisdowney 1-02, the goal coming from a misplaced pass in defence in the 3rd minute, brought the teams level at 1-11 each. The fast flowing fixture continued to see-saw with the teams level at 1-17 each in the 21st minute. Two minutes later, Lisdowney forced a brave save from Sean Manogue but the rebound eventually was forced over the goal line to give the northern club a vital 2-17 to 1-17 lead. In that time frame Luke Scanlon hit 4 points from open play and placed balls in addition to the livewire, Ethan Butler’s, single score in the 13th minute. Throughout the high tempo game each of the six James Stephens defenders had to be on their toes to fend off a constant stream of dangerous Lisdowney attacks. The late setback fired up the James Stephens men but with time running out the two points from Niall Mullins and Luke Scanlon were insufficient to haul in the equally determined Lisdowney side who countered with two points of their own for a 2-19 to 1-19 victory. Despite the disappointment of a somewhat unlucky defeat there was much on view to give hope and confidence to the management team with the performance and determination of the team as the season progresses.

HURLER’S CO-OP DRAW Co-ordinator Tom Keane confirms that the tickets for the annual County Board promoted Hurler’s Co-op Draw are available for purchase through club officers and committee members. Tickets cost €50 for the five draws which has cars on offer as the top prize in three draws with valuable holiday prizes in the other two draws. In total over €130,000 will be won over the five draws. The first draw takes place in a month’s time on 10th June. In addition to

U-10’s ON TOUR

Maura Barton and Caoimhe Egan who were members of the winning Loreto Secondary School’s minor camogie team that won the Super 9-a-side tournament in Galway at the weekend

supporting the training costs of Kilkenny teams for the upcoming championship campaign the draw is also a valuable fundraiser for the club. For ticket purchase or for further information contact Tom Keane at 086 3481882.

KILKENNY MINORS TRIUMPH Well done to the Kilkenny minor hurlers on continuing their unbeaten run through the Leinster championship campaign following their 2-25 to 0-18 win against Dublin in O’Toole Park on Saturday afternoon. Playing their part in the emphatic victory were full back and team captain Larry Phelan, goalkeeper Cian Dermody and Diarmuid Behan in midfield. Ruairi Power was a member of the extended panel.

CAMOGIE 9-A-SIDE TOURNEY Congratulations to the club’s U-15 camogie players Maura Barton and Caoimhe Egan who were members of the winning Loreto Secondary School’s minor camogie team that won the Super 9-a-side tournament in Galway at the weekend. En route to the final, having topped their group in the league section, the Loreto girls came through a tough semi-final against St.Patrick’s, Maghera before facing the Clare powerhouse, St. Flannan’s, Ennis in the tournament decider. All through the campaign the Village girls Maura and Caoimhe played a key role in the forward line contributing positively to the Kilkenny schools eventual title success. The final was a close affair but Loreto Kilkenny pulled away in the closing stages for a well merited 5-04 to 3-02 victory. The young Village player Maura Barton was rewarded for her performance in the final with the “Player of the Match” award. Both Maura and Caoimhe are presently members of the Kilkenny U-15 camogie development squad.

1ST YEAR SCHOOL’S CAMOGIE BLITZ On Thursday morning Presentation Secondary teacher Stephen Murphy coordinated a 1st Year Secondary Schools Camogie Blitz competition in which six secondary schools took part. This is the 3rd year

of the competition promoted by the Department of Education in conjunction with the GAA. Future Leaders programme to encourage young girls to participate in our unique national sport, camogie. Played in blazing sunshine in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan the young players from Loreto College (Wexford), Presentation Secondary (Kilkenny), Col. Mhuire (Johnstown), Presentation College (Thurles), Callan Community College, and the Rathdowney Secondary enthusiastically embraced the tournament which no doubt will encourage many to continue their involvement in the game well into the future. Our thanks to the club’s catering committee, Ann Marie White, Lucy O’Reilly and Noreen Fogarty who provided much needed and appreciated tea/ coffees and refreshments for the players and their supervisors over a long day.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE A job well done by the Kilkenny senior camogie team, with club stars Niamh Deely, Michelle Teehan and Sophie O’Dwyer on board as they outscored Dublin 4-11 to 2-12 in Blanchardstown on Saturday to claim a place in the Leinster final in the next week or two. Before the throw-in both teams lined out wearing shorts but referee Ray Kelly, following the Camogie Associations guidelines, insisted that the game could not go ahead unless both teams changed to skorts to which they reluctantly agreed to allow the final be played. At the end of a competitive semi-final the Kilkenny girls deservedly qualified for the Leinster final hoping to add a fourth title in a row and a 26th title in all.

U-10’S ON TOUR On Saturday the U-10 hurlers travelled to Co. Wexford to take part in the Blackwater GAA club’s annual U-10 tournament. Teams from Waterford, Dublin, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford competed over a long day’s hurling. In the well organised tournament, the two James Stephens teams acquitted themselves well across eight games enjoying plenty of robust hurling while displaying their abundant skills picked up during their coaching sessions at home. Our thanks to the team mentors and family members who travelled to Blackwater to organise the teams and ensure the safe return of all to base in the Village.

NEW SCOREBOARD During the week a new digital scoreboard was installed at the Hoban Pitch, at Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan courtesy of the generous funding from Mr. Denis Lahart, Lahart Motors and Mr. Des Hennessy, Shellumsrath Engineering. The club’s management committee greatly appreciate the funding support of both local businesses.

JUVENILE NEWS Juvenile chairman, Kieran Brennan advises that the underage team mentors across the age grades have organised a busy schedule of tournaments for their young charges over the next few weeks.

On Wednesday, 14th May the launch of the U-8 City League takes place involving James Stephens, O’Loughlin Gaels and Dicksboro. Then on Sunday 18th May, the day Kilkenny and Dublin clash in UPMC Nowlan Park the U-11’s will host a visit from Ballyboden St.Enda’s and the U-12 ‘s also have games planned against Kilmacud Crokes in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. On the same day in the Barrow Rangers U-9’s blitz the young James Stephens players will travel to Paulstown to play Castleknock.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 19, 22, 24, 28. There was no winning ticket. The €40 consolation winners were Romano, Richie Manogue, The Brennan Boys, Catherine Lawlor and Eddie Kelly.

BENNETTSBRIDGE TIDY TOWNS Bennettsbridge Tidy Towns Group is appealing to local people to help out this year. They are asking EVERYONE to lend a hand, keep the area around your home litter-free, trim a bit of grass in shared spaces and help out where you can. If we all do a little, no one has to do a lot.

A big thank you to the wonderful volunteers who came out recently to help with litter picking! Your efforts are truly appreciated and make a real difference to our village. As many of you know, Bennettsbridge has been without a community worker since last autumn. That means keeping our village looking its best is now up to all of us. Let’s work together to keep OUR village, Bennettsbridge, beautiful!

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Mrs Breed Walsh and family, Main Street, Bennettsbridge on the death of Breed’s brother, Br. Nicholas Healy, CSsR, Redemptorist Community, Mount Saint Alphonsus, South Circular Road, Limerick and formerly of Marianella,

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Community & GAA Notes

‘Bridge girls, Leah and Katie, Loreto Camogie Super 9s Champions

Dublin and Kilmacar, Conahy, Co. Kilkenny. Br Nicholas died on Monday, 21st April 2025, peacefully in University Hospital Limerick.

Predeceased by his Parents Michael and Bridget, his siblings Kathy, Anne (Sr. Francis), Mary (Sr. Philomena), Jim, Mikey and Julia (Infant). His brothersin-law Jim Walsh and Paddy Kenny. Mourned by his Redemptorist Community, sister Breed Walsh (Bennettsbridge), sister in law Nellie Healy (Kilmacar).

Cherished uncle of his many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, great grand nieces and nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

Br. Nicholas’s remains were brought home to Mount St Alphonsus and lay in repose in the church.

The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Wednesday, April 23rd, followed by burial in Castlemungret Cemetery.

STEVEN TORTELI RIP Sympathy is extended to Mary Torteli (nee Murphy, Barronsland) on the sudden death of her husband Steven Torteli, also to Mary’s sisters, Anna Power, Tess Harrington, Imelda Galvin and their families.

Mary and Steven were regular visitors to Bennettsbridge when their old home and family were in Barronsland.

CHURCH NEWS The Tullaherin Parish Mass in honour of the late Pope Francis celebrated in St Bennett’s Church last Wednesday was well attended. Tullaherin and Bennettsbridge Parish choirs came together for the occasion.

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

MASS TIMES THIS WEEK Wednesday And Friday 10.30am FIRST COMMUNION First Communion will take place in St Bennett’s Church on Saturday morning at 11am.

East End Division 2 Cup Winners

LOTTO No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 1, 11, 16 17.

Consolation Prizes, Grace O’Neill, Ballyreddin, Orla Greene, Bennettsbridge, Christy Forde, Bohergaddy, Margaret Nolan, Hillview, Anne Marie Mullins, ℅ Mosse’s.

GATHERING The gathering group was visited last week by a health worker who gave an interesting talk on bone health. Meeting on Wednesdays for usual activities.

EAST END Well done to East End Division 2 Cup Winners following their win over Stoneyford.East End 6, Stoneyford 1, In doing so, completing the double, League and Cup. Huge thanks to O’Donnell’s bar, The Nore Tavern for the incredible hospitality after the cup win!

The team really appreciated the food, drinks, and warm welcome — a perfect way to celebrate a great victory!

FUN BLITZ East end U10s and U 11s wrapped up their season with a fun-filled blitz. The U8s and U9s also enjoyed a fun blitz. Thanks to players, coaches and parents for the support and hard work throughout the year.

CAMOGIE Congratulations to Bennettsbridge players, Leah and Katie, team members of the Loreto Kilkenny 2025 Camogie Super 9s Champions.

GAA Club Games Our minors defeated John Locke’s in the league while our under 16s lost out to Dunnamaggin. The under 16s played Mount Leinster Rangers last Monday evening. Hard luck to the junior football team who lost out to Tullaroan after extra time in the county final last Thursday evening. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for upcoming fixture details and changes. Best of luck to all ‘Bridge teams.

Signage Campaign Bennettsbridge GAA club have launched a Pitch signage campaign. This will be used to pay off the outstanding loan on our development. A sub-committee has been formed so any businesses wishing to have their name advertised on the surrounding pitch wall should contact the sub-committee members for the terms and details: Alan Flynn, Alan Morrissey, Tommie Hughes, Tim Dooley and Mary Blanchfield. The first signs have already been erected and look very impressive. Thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far.

Club membership Club membership for the coming year is now due.

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

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

Intercounty Games Good luck to David Blanchfield who is part of the Kilkenny senior team that will play Offaly on Saturday. Well done to Jamie Walsh who was on the Kilkenny minor panel that had a win over Dublin in their third round of the Leinster championship.

Eoin Walpole and Liam Keogh are with the Kilkenny minor footballers who play Waterford in the championship next Saturday while Eoin Walpole is with the Kilkenny Celtic challenge team who also play Waterford in the championship quarter

final next Saturday also. Best wishes to all ‘Bridge players on the squads at the moment. At under 14 level hurling, Evan O’ Dwyer, Ben Fitzgerald, Reuben Morrissey, Michael Ryan and Ollie Kelly Doyle are involved while Darragh McCormack is with the Kilkenny under 16 football squad.

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

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

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN Tom Healy

ACTIVE RETIREMENT The Active Retirement Group meet on Thursday 22nd May at 11am in the Paulstown Community Hall.

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

BRIDGE UNITED In the League and Premier Division Cup Bridge defeated Thomastown (2-1) with Bridge scores by Marty Dalton and Nicholas Llanos.

The lotto draw of 28th April resulted in prizes of €20 each for Catherine McLoughlin, Geraldine Keating, Liz Lawlor Pratt, Michael Keating and Eileen Carroll CAR PARKING The development of the new car park on the county Carlow side of the bridge at Goresbridge is warmly welcomed by the community. Feel free to park there, please, and not on the footpaths!

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm. For the month of May there will be rosary and hymns each evening at 8pm at the Grotto at the rear of the Church of the Assumption in Paulstown. Also, there will be a rosary for children every Friday in the month of May in Paulstown church (info: Orla 086 3672 560).

First Holy Communion for the children of Goresbridge at 11am this Saturday (10th May).

COMMUNITY CENTRE (IONAD DARA, GORESBRIDGE) The AGM of the management committee takes place at 8pm on Wednesday 14 May. TALK THE TALK Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues this Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

FLEADH CHEOIL The Kilkenny Fleadh Cheoil takes place from 9-11 May. There will be events taking place in Paulstown Community Hall, Blakes pub and The Shamrock pub. The weekend kicks off on Friday 9th May with a concert by Ceoltóirí Kilkenny Junior Entertainment Group at 7pm in the community hall followed by a trad session in Blakes pub at 9.30pm. On Saturday there will be ‘caint agus ceol’ at 11am in Shankill Castle while at 3pm there will be a Céilí Dance workshop. One Sunday there will be a Céilí in Gowran parish hall.

MENS SHED The Mens Shed takes place on Tuesday 20th May at 11am in the community hall in Paulstown. Cup of tea, chat, woodwork and upcoming visits to other sheds.

SHANKILL CASTLE Shankill Castle reopens to the public each weekend (11.00am - 5pm). The Grounded in Nature Forest School for 5-11 year olds recommences on 14th May for a 6-week term of afternoon sessions as well as on 21st May for a 5-week term for parents and children. Further information: groundedinnaturefs@gmail.com SPLIT THE POT Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results for the 27th April draw were: 1. Betty Wall (€100), 2. Teresa and Mini Barcoe and Breda Walsh (€20) and 3 Tom Ned (€20).

GRAIGUENAMANAGH GRAIG NOTES

Should you have something to share news items, club events, announcements etc you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com.or ring 0892579882.

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

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

CLINIC Cllr. Brian Cleere will continue to hold his Clinic at Upper Main Street, Graiguenamanagh on Saturdays Evenings 6:30pm.

ST MARY’S PARISH GAA FUTURE LEADERS Well done to C.B.S.Kilkenny Transision Year Future Leaders who have successfully completed their coaching module. Today, they helped coach over 80 students of Gaelscoil Osraí. Their commitment, teamwork, and leadership made a lasting impact, and they should be very proud of their achievements.

MOTHER OF FAIR LOVE SCHOOL Congratulations to the Mother of Fair Love’s newest team member. Pippin, the new Wellbeing dog joined the James’s Street school this week.

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

INFORMATION EVENING ON PILGRIMAGE TO LOUGH DERG On this Friday, 9th May 2025, St Patrick’s Pastoral Centre, Loughboy, Bishop Niall invites you to come along to learn more about our Jubilee Year of Hope Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lough Derg, which will take place from 30th May – 1st June 2025. All welcome.

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

BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Kilkenny Bereavement Support Service provides free one to one support to people who are bereaved and can be contacted on 086 0670566 to arrange an appointment or make an enquiry.

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL CAFE Our Volunteers: Everyone who greets you in St. Mary’s Cathedral café are volunteers giving their time freely. They believe in making our café a space where people of the community can connect and know they are not alone. Why Support us: Teac Tom provides affordable and immediate services to help those struggling with their mental health or who have been bereaved by suicide. All profits from St Mary’s Cathedral Café go directly to supporting mental health services and suicide intervention provided by Teac Tom. Please call in to your community cafe for a cuppa. We’re open at the moment Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 10am-1pm BUS ESCORT Mother of Fair Love School is looking for a Bus Escort and to form a panel for Bus Escort positions that may arise over the coming months. Please apply with CV to principal@motheroffairlove.ie or by post to The Principal, Mother of Fair Love School, James’s Street, Kilkenny or call the office at 0567721352 for more information.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Can you spare approx. 1 hour per week? The “Meals on Wheels” service need new volunteers to deliver meals around Kilkenny city. Must be a car driver. If you would like to join our team please ring the Kilkenny Social Services at this number: 056 7721685 CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKSHOP St Mary’s Cathedral, Chapter House Bookshop is now open, Monday 9.30am till 1.00pm and Tuesday - Friday 9.30am till 5.00pm.

KILMACOW COUNCIL WORKS AT SMARTSCASTLE Bridge Rehabilitation works are continuing this

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Community & GAA Notes

Mullinavat, Kilkenny Senior Football Champions 2025

week to facilitate the construction of parapet walls on the bridge on the L3405 at Smartscastle. Temporary traffic light will be in operation for the duration of the works.

KILKENNY OLDER PEOPLE’S COUNCIL The Older People’s Council will host a gathering and information talks from 10.30am on Thursday, 29th May in the Community Hall, Mooncoin. Talks will include Age Friendly Programme, Education and Training Board activities and Health and Well-Being.

Please contact Mary on 085 194 2174 for more information.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 5, 10, 11 and 19. There were five Lucky dips at €40 each.

KILMACOW SPORTS COMPLEX The Complex will soon host a free eight-week fitness through football programme which is recreational and non-competitive. Contact Jemma on 086 079 0084 or Maria on 087 634 1809 for more details.

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

KREATIVE SPACE Kilmacow Youth Club will host a Kreative Space in the Community Centre from 7.00pm to 9.00pm on Mondays, commencing 12th May. The space will be used for sharing skills, learning new ones, being creative with like-minded people and socializing.

Admission is €5. Please contact the Youth Club by e-mail at kilmacowyouthclub@gmail.com or by telephone on 087 672 1976 for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kilkenny County Council will host a workshop in Ferrybank Library from 6.0pm to 8.00pm on Wednesday, 7th May. FERRYBANK LIBRARY The Library will host a workshop with Deirdre Lindy ‘Then and Now: The Wisdom We Carry’ from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Friday, 23rd May. Through conversation, life coaching and mindful practices, the focus will be on resilience, self-kindness, and valuing our own journey. Places are limited. Please telephone the Library at 051 897200 or email ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie to book a place.

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

EIGHT TITLE FOR MULLINAVAT Mullinavat clinched their eight Kilkenny Senior Football title, and seventh in the last nine years, with a ten-point victory over Mooncoin in Glenmore on Friday evening. Played before a large crowd in Pairc na Ratha with both teams fully committed it was a well contested game. Two spells of Mullinavat dominance either side of the interval proved decisive. Two points each from Michael Malone and Oisín Knox gave Mullinavat and early four-point lead. Mooncoin came into the game with a Séamus Kearns two-pointer and Pádraic Murphy free. There were further exchanges of scores before a splendid team goal, finished by Conor Walsh, enabled Mullinavat to lead by 1-9 to 0-5 at half-time. They made a blistering start to the second half with seven unanswered points from six different scorers which effectively sealed the matter in Mullinavat’s favour.

To their credit Mooncoin rallied to outscore their rivals in the final twenty minutes, with Adam Croke scoring five points, being particularly impressive.

When the full-time whistle was blown by referee Tadgh Morley Mullinavat were ten points to the good with a score 1-21 to 0-14.

This was another convincing team performance by Mullinavat and it is noteworthy that several players in the 28 man squad featured in all seven recent championship successes. Players like Ger Malone, Tom Aylward, a colossus in midfield, Oisín Knox and Conor Walsh were star performers on this occasion.

Mooncoin have improved all year, having won the league earlier in the year, they had defeated Thomastown (2021 champions) and reigning champions Dicksboro to reach this year’s final. Goalkeeper Ciaran Walsh, Paul Hennebry, Seamus Kearns and Adam Croke were amongst their star performers.

Credit to Glenmore GAA club for their excellent hosting of the game and to Mayo native referee Tadgh Morley and his two linesmen for their implementation of the new rules.

Kilkenny County Board Vice Chairperson Jim Fennelly presented the Ned Langton trophy to Mullinavat captain Jim Culleton post-match, with Glenmore GAA secretary Jim Dunne representing sponsors JJ Kavanagh’s. Mullinavat will go on to represent Kilkenny in the Leinster Intermediate

Championship next Autumn.

Mullinavat: Jack Walsh, Ian Mansfield, Joe Fennelly, Seán Fitzpatrick, Padraig Dempsey (0-3), Ger Malone, Padraic Gahan, Michael Malone (0-6, 3 frees), Thomas Aylward (0-2), Conor Walsh (1-1) , Adam Mansfield (0-1), James Culleton (Captain), Oisín Knox (0-6), Brian Phelan, Conor Duggan (0-1).

Substitutes: Ian Duggan, Peter McDonald, Simon Aylward, Jamie Davis (0-1), Fiachra Knox, Mark McNamara, Liam Fennelly, Martin Davis, Michael Walsh, Patrick Walshe, Shane Aylward, Paddy Murphy, Cian McDonnell, John Walsh.

Management team: Michael Aylward, Richie Devine, Shane Kelly.

Mooncoin: Ciaran Walsh, Ryan Carroll, Aidan Doyle, Donnacha Hogan, Killian Hogan, Cormac Daly, Sean O’Dwyer, Paul Hennebry (0-2, 1 free), Ethan Ryan, Cormac Kinsella (captain), Sean Walsh, Stephen Crowley, Adam Croke (0-5, 4 frees), Seamus Kearns (0-5), Pauric Murphy (0-1, free). Substitutes: Ryan Croke (0-1), Martin O’Neill, Jim Delahunty, Aidan Carroll, Jack Ryan, Darragh Murphy, Danny Purcell, Billy Delahunty, Kevin Crowley, Martin Gannon (injured).

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL SYMPATHY The parish lost two great men in the last week with the sad loss of Paddy Bolger and Richie Stone Sincere sympathy is sent to Paddy’s family, to his wife Ann (née Payne) son Niall daughters Ciara and Emma. sister Margaret, also by Lucia, son-in-law Declan, daughter-in-law Janet, Emma’s partner Michael, his adored grandchildren Laura, Conor, Ryan, Roan, Orna, Sorcha and Thernean, greatgrandchildren Indie and Páidí, Also to Richie’s family to his wife Ann, his daughters Aisling, Marie, Jenny, Emer and Lorraine, his sons Adrian, Ray, Harry and Richard, sister Ann, brother Cecil, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, and his grandchildren Tommy, Ruairi, Oscar, Meabh, Lucy, Eve, Ruth, Elliot, Henry, Rosie, Sebastian, Holly, Malachy, Ayda, Cora, Lochlann, Tadgh, and Meaghan May they rest in peace.

OUTREACH SERVICE Ballyragget Cois Nore Outreach Service is available to anyone seeking Cancer Support, information, or registration to Cois Nore’s free of charge and confidential services at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, The Square, Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon. All are welcome GAA CO-OP TICKETS The local GAA club will have their Kilkenny Co-op tickets for sale from this weekend as always many thanks to everyone who helps on selling these.

JOHNSTOWN TROCAIRE If anyone wishes to contribute to the Trocaire Lenten Collection please return the box or the envelope as soon as possible so that the money can be forwarded to Trocaire.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

Congratulations to Leah, Callum, Abigail, Ted, Fionn, Mila, Cathal and Tadgh from St. Kieran’s National School who made their First Holy Communion on Saturday last. Thanks to the teachers who prepared them so well, their parents and families.

Celebrant was Fr. Ollie Maher P.P and the schoolchildren sang so beautifully accompanied by Eddie, Maebh and Breda.

OUTING Graine ladies are holding their annual outing to Bundoran from May 25th to 28th. Three nights D/B/B € 369 at the Great Northern Hotel. A few places still available. Contact Ann 0872356484.

KILKENNY RECREATION AND SPORTS PARTNERSHIP....

Move better, walk stronger. A four week programme starting May 14th. Three sessions in Colaiste Mhuire and the final one at Grange Loop Walk. It’s a7.15pm start for women and 8.15pm for men. It’s suitable for beginners or back to fitness enthusiasts. So take advantage of a social and relaxed way to be active in your area. Classes focus on mobility, flexibility, cardio and weighted exercise. Contact Ciara on 0858782773.

URLINGFORD LIBRARY A monthly toddler/ under 6 story time Friday May 30th at 11am. A set of three chair yoga classes start Friday May 23rd at 2.30pm continuing May 30th and June 6th. Colour me beautiful stylist Johanna Costigan will be in the library on Wednesday May 28th from 11am to 1pm. She will give advice on everyday make up, colour analysis, draping demonstration and colour palettes. The workshop will give you tips on enhancing your personal style. For information on any of the above call 0568894182.

SPA UNITED AFC Weekly results: Seanie O’Connor Trophy Southend 2 Spa 0, U15 boys cup Spa 3 Bridge 2, U14 boys cup Spa 1 Callan 1, Callan won after penalties 4-2, U14 boys shield Paulstown 3 Spa 0, U13 boys league division 1 East End 0 Spa 4, U13 boys cup Freebooters 0 Spa 2, U12 boys Bowl Spa 0 Thomastown 1.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were 9,15,16,21, there was no jackpot winner and four match threes Friday Blues, Jim Ryan, Hailey Ryan and Robbie Quinlan.

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

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

SENIOR ALERT

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Community & GAA Notes

Mooncoin, runners-up in the Kilkenny Senior Football Championship 20225

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

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services.

Donations can be dropped off during our open hours. Please call before dropping off.

ALLOTMENTS Beds available in the Polytunnel, €15 per bed, contact Sue in the MFRC. 056 88 38466 For further information, please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466 GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

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

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

TROCAIRE BOXES Please return your Trocaire box/envelope as soon as possible to the Church or Parochial House so that all monies received can be passed on. Many thanks for your generous contributions to date CASHEL AND EMLY PILGRIMAGE June 13th - 18th. Cost from €969, flights from Shannon. Pilgrimage Director: Rev. Jimmy Donnelly.

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

GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the May special bingo last Saturday. We had a full Hall and delighted with the support from the Parish.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Daithi O’Gorman, who won €316 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of May Split the Pot will be in support of Gortnahoe National School. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

ITA BREEN RIP The death has occurred of Ita Breen (née Mulligan), Renaghmore, Grange, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, April

26th, peacefully in the presence of her family in the loving care of the staff at Archersrath Nursing Home, Kilkenny in her 94th year. Predeceased by her husband Sèan, son Hugh, brothers Tom, Jim, Hugh and sisters Rose and Kathleen. Sadly missed and remembered with love by her family, Stephen, Mary and Liz, son-in-law Dave, daughter-in-law Frances, Liz’s partner Johnny, grandchildren Clodagh, Aoife, Eilish, Shauna, Ciara, Noel and Nick, great grandchildren Sèan and Hannah, brother Ned, sister Betty, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Ita reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home, Urlingford. Removal took place to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe arriving for Requiem Mass.

Interment took place afterwards in the adjoining Churchyard. May she rest in peace.

KILMANAGH QUIZ NIGHT The Annual Mary McGrath table quiz in aid of St Brigid’s Camogie club will take place in the Pound on Friday night 9th May. Team of four. Commencing at 9pm. All welcome.

CONGRATS Congratulations to Molly Conroy on winning a Minor All Ireland medal with Kilkenny Camogie.

Well done, Molly.

KNOCKNAGRESS COMMEMORATION We will get together to say a decade of the rosary at the monument in New England, Tullaroan on Friday 16th May at 8pm to commemorate the lives of the two lads shot in an ambush during the war of independence. All are welcome.

BALLYKEEFFE 2025 - VOLUNTEERS We are looking for more volunteers to help out with this year’s events during the summer of 2025. All volunteers must be over 18. Please send all enquiries to ballykeeffe@gmail.com.

BALLYKEEFFE BOOK Time is quickly passing for items to be entered for publishing in our booklet on the history of Ballykeeffe (from start to current day) in honour of 25th year anniversary of the Amphitheatre. We are looking for any memories, stories, pictures you may have that we can include in this booklet. We are also looking for pictures and history of any old equipment that would have been used in the quarry in olden times. We need to have all the information for the booklet by end of May to give us time to have it published for the summertime. You can be assured that all photographs or documents you lend us will be copied and returned immediately to their owners and will not be damaged in any way.

We can arrange to collect or photograph any items you may have. Please contact Eileen Lanigan on 086 373 99 83 or email lanigan.eileen@gmail.com with any information you may have. Items can also be given to any member of the KBK Committee.

LOTTO RESULTS Results for 28th April. There was no winner. Numbers drawn were 5; 11; 18; 28. Lucky Dip Winners were Maimie Comerford, Danny Hoyne and Tom Kennedy. Promoters’ prizes go to Martin Prendiville

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

CONAHY HURLING The junior hurlers had their first competitive game in 2025 when they faced Barrow Rangers in the Michael Lyng Motors Division 4 League in Paulstown on Sunday afternoon last. The locals were minus a number of senior players, but despite this, were level at 1-10 apiece with their hosts. Barrow Rangers were the far stronger side in the second half, and two late goals and a flurry of points ensured a victory for them on a 3-24 to 1-16 score line.

The minor hurlers were also in action when they travelled to Lisdowney on Wednesday night last in the Roinn B League. There was little between the sides all through, with Lisdowney initially leading by 0-11 to 1-6 at half-time, the Conahy goal coming from Daniel Mooney. Conahy fought really hard to get back into the game, and did manage to level the game on one occasion. However, Lisdowney finished strongly to run out winners by 1-18 to 1-15.

Conahy are back in action tonight (Wednesday) when they face Clara in Jenkinstown at 6.30 p.m.

The under-16 hurlers were also narrowly defeated

by St. Martin’s in their latest game in the Roinn B League in Jenkinstown on Monday night last. After a slow start, Conahy came back well into the game and were only two points in arrears at half-time (1-7 to 0-8). An exciting second half saw the two sides exchange scores, but despite a late goal from a Billy Rowe free, St. Martin’s were able to hold on for a 2-16 to 1-15 victory.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 22, 29 and 32. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Shay Healy, Seamus Óg Brennan, Sean O’Shea, Jack Fitzpatrick and Cathy Gunner. The promoter prize winners were Shay Healy, Teresa Dollard and Nora Delaney. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m.Vigil - Saturday. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 11th. 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Vigil Saturday at 6.30p.m. Sunday. at 11.00a.m.

PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses: Neddy and Kitty Fitzpatrick, Lismatigue; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 10th. May at 8.00p.m.

ROTA (FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER) Reader, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tony Roche.

Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan: Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Mary O’Grady.

Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm. Marion Barron; Sunday 10.00am. Ruth Foran. Stoneyford Church: New Rota is available in Church Sacristy.

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

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

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

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

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

Information Evening on Pilgrimage to Lough Derg will be held on Friday 9th. May at 7.00p.m. in St Patrick’s Pastoral Centre, Loughboy. Bishop Niall invites you to come along to learn more about our ‘Jubilee Year of Hope’ Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lough Derg. All are welcome.

SAFEGUARDING IN THE DIOCESE OF OSSORY Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

EASTER COLLECTION Envelopes for the Easter Collection are available in the Church. Your contribution is for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. (To donate directly.) Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831) LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 28th. April 2025 Numbers: 13; 14; 12; 24. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn: No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Deirdre Rohan, Carricketna; Marie O’Gorman, Hugginstown. Brenda and Teresa Fitzgerald, Hugginstown; Eileen Lalor, c/o Angela Barron; Adrian Hudson. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Teresa Fitzgerald; Padraig Crowley; Ger Carroll.

TABLE QUIZ: A Table Quiz in aid of ‘Unicef-Children of Gaza/ Ukraine’ will be held in Dunphy`s Lounge, Kilmoganny on Saturday next 10th. May at 8.30pm. Please support. All are welcome.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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News Hurling matters - Preview

Sport Cats seek

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster SHC – Round 4 Kilkenny vs Offaly UPMC Nowlan Park, Saturday, 6pm Referee: Colm McDonald (Antrim) Kilkenny welcome Offaly to UPMC Nowlan Park tomorrow evening, hoping to maintain their perfect start to the defence of their Leinster crown (Throw-in 6pm).

It’s been a case of so far, so good for Derek Lyng’s side as they continue their quest for a sixth consecutive Bob O’Keefe Cup with victories secured over Galway and most recently Antrim. The management will no doubt be demanding to back the first two round performances up by condemning the Faithful County to a third defeat in this season’s provincial competition, but will give tomorrow’s opponents the utmost respect, knowing that taking your eye off the ball can be a dangerous game.

While Johnny Kelly’s charges may be pointless in their Leinster campaign to date, the midlands side have shown enough in 2025 to suggest that they can cause many sides problems and their visit to Noreside will not be taken lightly.

Offaly’s showings in this seasons Allianz league will have given them plenty of heart and finishing just one point behind winners Waterford is a strong indication of the capabilities of this side. Don’t forget, Offaly finished ahead of Dublin, a team that has had designs on a Leinster crown themselves. Portumna clubman Kelly, was a key part of Michael Fennelly’s backroom team as they revived the fortunes of the senior hurlers and took full control of the Faithful County in Autumn 2022 as continuity was favoured, given the progress that had been made under the guidance of the former Kilkenny great.

As mentioned, Offaly only had the Deise ahead of them in division 1B of the league. In their six games, they managed four wins, a draw and just the one defeat in their run to second place. An eye-catching victory over Dublin was one of the highlights for Kelly’s team with other wins gained in games against Westmeath, Laois and Antrim, with the one loss coming against 1B winners Waterford. First up for Offaly was a home tie with Carlow, and in truth, they didn’t do enough to take maximum points, instead having to settle for a draw when Marty Kavanagh equalised deep into stoppage time.

The Joe McDonagh champions travelled to O’Moore Park for round 2, and secured the win, thanks to starring performances from Brian Duignan and Dan Ravenhill, who contributed 0-18 between them.

Sub David Nally netted with his first touch of the game for the icing on

Skill and determination Mossy’s the man!

3rd win as quest for Leinster crown continues The visit of Offaly next up for Noresiders

the cake as Johnny Kelly’s outfit ran out 9-point winners as they moved onto three points in the group. Next up for the Faithful County was the challenge of Davy Fitz’s Saffrons side, and the northern side put in an extremely disappointing showing in Tullamore, going down by some 15-points. Again, Brian Duignan was instrumental in all that was good about the home side, notching 12 points in his sides victory. The majors came from Dan Ravenhill and Killian Sampson, one in each half as the hosts cantered to an easy win. A game against the Dubs at Croke Park saw a titanic encounter, which Offaly came out the right side of, by the bare minimum. Dan Ravenhill was the hero, striking over a booming free from way inside his own half deep into injury time to secure the big win.

Glenisk O’Connor Park was once Mikey Carey has been going well in the stripes

again the venue for Offaly as they welcomed Westmeath for the round 4 clash. This was a game that defences dominated, and it turned into a free-taking shootout between Killian Doyle and Brian Duignan, both placed ball specialists hitting 0-14 a piece, but it was the home side that had the more effective supporting cast, Oisin Kelly notching 0-3 and Killian Sampson finding the net as Offaly won by six. A trip to Walsh Park followed, when they took on the might of Waterford. A 12-point salvo from Stephen Bennett and penalty stop from netminder Billy Nolan proved crucial as the visitors were up against it when James Mahon got a straight red card from Johnny Murphy for a high tackle on Gavin Fives about ten minutes before the interval. Both sides new that they would meet again, in the league final.

The banks of the River Lee was the backdrop as the sides clashed again, and once more it was the Deise that came out on top. Peter Queally’s charges controlled matter for almost 55 minutes, but a stirring comeback from Offaly, which saw them hit 1-8 without reply almost caught Waterford out, but they did enough to lift the silverware in SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh.

There is no doubt that in Brian Duignan, Offaly have a player that will punish any placed ball opportunities given. The Durrow clubman is a real handful and has good support in Dan’s; Bourke and Ravenhill who he has a good understanding with from the club game. The talented Oisin Kelly and Killian Sampson should start tomorrow and will look to trouble the Cats backline. Given that the Faithful County have been without

star man Adam Screeney so far this season as the KilcormacKilloughey player has plagued by an osteitis pubis injury, and given his importance to the side, not only now but for years ahead, his return has not been rushed. In defence, Ben Conneely, Ciarán Burke, Pádraig Cantwell have been showing well, while Tubber’s Donal Shirley may find himself anchoring things in the ‘6’ role. The last line of defence should see another of the Durrow contingent line out in the shape of Mark Troy. The netminder will no doubt be expecting a busy evening on Noreisde.

Kilkenny meanwhile will look to push on, and evidently have the firepower to trouble Offaly. Eoin Cody and Mossy Keoghan have been in good nick, while Billy Ryan and Fionan Mackessy have been contributing plenty to the Cats attack. Obviously, TJ and Adrian Mullen are on the way back (hopefully!) and will add plenty to the men in stripes cause. Cian Kenny and Jordan Molloy have been more than holding their own in the engine room, while adding scores to the Noresiders totals in games to date. Eoin Murphy will keep Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor and Tommy Walsh on their toes in front of him. Mikey Carey has put in some eye-catching performances and troubling the scoreboard also, the Young Ireland’s man is a fine hurler, a great mix of skill and determination. The likes of Luke Hogan, Harry Shine and Billy Drennan will all hope to get minutes into their legs in this round 3 clash, one which should see the men in black and amber record a third win in the provincial campaign.

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News Camogie

Sport

Steffi Fitzgerald being pressed

by Dublin’s Sinead Wylde

Provincial final beckons for Shefflin’s senior stars

Stripeywomen on top as skort issue highlighted

By Aoife Lanigan, PRO Leinster Senior Camogie Semi Final Kilkenny 4-11 Dublin 2-12 Kilkenny are through to the Leinster Senior Final after they defeated a determined Dublin in St Peregrine’s GAA, Dublin last Saturday.

The match went ahead after the two teams had come out for the warm up wearing shorts in protest of the ‘skort’. Both Captains went for the coin toss when match officials noticed them wearing the shorts, they were told that the match would be abandoned if they did not go back into the changing rooms and change into their skorts. So both teams went in and changed, so the match could go ahead.

When the match did start, Dublin opened the scoring with a point through Aoife McKearney from a placed ball. A minute later, Kate Nolan pulled on the sliotar towards the Dublin goal. Dublin’s goalkeeper came off her line, but Kilkenny’s corner forward Steffi Fitzgerald was quickest to react to the sliotar and she doubled on it to the back of the net Sinead Wylde & Laura Murophy (f ) traded points. In the 6th minute, Kilkenny were awarded a free in their own half, but due to a Dublin players dissent, the free was brought forward. Niamh Deely took the free, sending in a high ball, both backs & forwards went for the sliotar, but Aoife Prendergast connected and it ended up in the back of the Dublin net. Kilkenny added another three points through Laura Murphy (2fs) & Steffi Fitzgerald.

In the 13th minute, Dublin’s Aisling Maher ran at speed towards the Kilkenny goal & she hit an unstoppable shot into the bottom corner of the net. Aoife McKearney added another pointed free for

Dublin.

Aoife Prendergast got in for her second foal for Kilkenny when the sliotar was played out of the visitors defence by Niamh Deely, Steffi Fitzgerald caught the sliotar and laid off a perfect handpass to Prendergast & she rattled the back of the Dublin net.

Dublin then hit the final three scores of the first half, through Aoife McKearney (f ), Aisling Maher (f ) & Claire Gannon to leave the interval score 3-4 to 1-6 in favour of the Cats.

On the resumption of play, Kilkenny extended their lead further, scoring 1-2 without reply.

The points coming from Laura Murphy (f ) & Aoife Prendergast.

The goal was scored by Caoimhe Keher Murtagh, after receiving a pass from Aoife Prendergast.

From the 35th to 50th minute, both teams exchanged three points apiece, Kilkenny’s points came from Katie Nolan, Mary O’Connell & Laura Murphy (f ) & Dublin’s points came from Aisling Maher (f ), Grace O’Shea & Sinead Wylde.

In the 51st minute, Dublin were awarded a 45m free, Aisling Maher struck a well taken shot towards the goal, it was blocked out by the Kilkenny defence but Dublin’s Grace O’Shea reacted quickest to the loose sliotar & doubled on it to the back of the net Heading towards the full time whistle, Sinead Wylde & Aisling Maher (f ) added a point each for Dublin, while Kellyann Doyle & Sophie Holden slotted over a point apiece for Kilkenny to leave the final score Kilkenny 4-11 Dublin 2-12 Kilkenny will now play Wexford in the Leinster Senior Final on 17th May, time & venue to be confirmed.

Scorers – Kilkenny – Aoife Prendergast 2-1, Laura Murphy 0-5 (5f ), Steffi Fitzgerald 1-1, Caoimhe Keher Murtagh 1-0, Katie Nolan, Mary O’Connell, Kellyann Doyle, Sophie Holden 0-1 each Dublin – Aisling Maher 1-4 (4f ), Grace O’Shea 1-1, Aoife McKearney

0-3 (3f ), Sinead Wylde 0-3, Claire Gannon 0-1 Kilkenny: Aoife Norris, Michelle Teehan, Tiffanie Fitzgerald, Ava Brett, Niamh Deely, Caoimhe Dowling, Katie Power (Capt), Sarah Barcoe, Laura Greene, Mary O’Connell, Laura Murphy, Caoimhe Keher Murtagh, Katie Nolan, Aoife Prendergast, Steffi Fitzgerald Subs – Kellyann Doyle for Katie Nolan, Aobha O’Gorman for Laura Greene, Sophie Holden for Sarah Barcoe, Ali Kennedy, Ciara Phelan, Miriam Bambrick, Danielle Quigley, Asha McHardy, Carlise Comerford, Maria Brennnan, Sophie O’Dwyer, Sinead O’Keeffe, Mairead Kennedy, Claire Doheny, Katiie Byrne, Niamh Crowley Dublin: Eimear Hurley, Abby Ryan, Hannah Leddy, Emma O’Byrne, Claire Gannon, Kerrie Finnegan, Sarah Power, Gaby Couch, Aoife McKearney, Sinead Wylde, Grace O’Shea, Sibeal Cherry, Aisling Gannon, Emma Moran, Aisling Maher Subs – Jennifer Moore for , Aisling O’Neill for , Aoife Heffernan for , Mia Farrell, Niamh Comerford, Aoife Kenny, Emily Adderly, Christine Shanahan, Aoife Higgins, Aine Rafter, Emma Flanagan, Grainne Skelton, Roisin Ni Chathasaigh, Zoe Couch, Issabel Davis

>> SHERRY SAYS..

Let’s stop ‘skirting’ around the issue

The year is 2025, the world is an unpredictable place, but one thing that can be guaranteed is the rights of our camogs to be ignored when it comes to their playing attire. Let’s get one thing straight – the players make the game, without them, there are no games. Both Dublin and Kilkenny made the point last weekend, ahead of their Leinster semi-final clash at St Peregrine’s GAA club, Blanchardstown, both teams took to the field wearing shorts, but were advised by officials, that if they didn’t change into the ‘traditional’ skort, the game would be abandoned.

Shocking.

There are many that believe the sides should have refused to change and stood firm, but perhaps now this ‘dated’ tradition can be addressed and the views of the players respected, but more importantly, acted on. The traditional skort is mandated playing attire for camogie players, a rule maintained at the 2024 Camogie Congress, at which four motions related to changing the rule were defeated. The Association’s president, Brian Molloy said he would continue to engage with players on the issue of wearing skorts. ‘Continue to engage’, why thank you Mr. President.

A recent Gaelic Players Association study revealed that 70% of inter-county camogie players find skorts uncomfortable and a whopping 83% of players at least want the right to choose between wearing skorts and shorts. Interestingly, 65% expressed concerns that wearing the skort exposed them in media content, which affected their mental state. While 49% experienced feelings of anxiety around period leaks.

This policy paper that the GPA prepared, in conjunction with the European Athletes and Players Association, examined the wearing of skorts from a player welfare perspective. Alongside Sport Ireland’s Women in Sport Policy, which encourages National Governing Bodies to ensure that women and girls feel safe, respected, and confident in their sporting environments, the paper also refers to UNESCO’s International Charter of Physical Education, Physical Activity and Sport, which advocates that athletes should feel safe, confident, and respected when participating in sport, without discrimination or fear of discomfort.

Following Kilkenny’s victory over the Metropolitans, Dublin captain, Aisling Maher posted an important statement on Instagram: “Career low for me today when 60+ players ready to play a championship game in shorts are told their match will be abandoned if every player doesn’t change into skorts.” “I love this game but I’m sick of being forced to wear a skort that is uncomfortable and unfit for purpose.” “How are female players still having to push for permission to wear shorts while they compete at the highest level of their sport.” “In no other facet of my life does someone dictate that I have to wear something resembling a skirt because I am a girl. Why is it happening in my sport?”

Camogs across the island of Ireland need to stand firm on this, players have spoken and made their views and wishes known. One thing is certain, our female sports people cannot and should not have to wait until 2027, when the Camogie Assocation are due to next vote on this urgent matter. Perhaps disruption to the playing schedule is needed to bring change about, but it doesn’t need to come to that. The minister for sport, Patrick O’Donovan may need to step in and ensure the right thing is done.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Senior Football FinalNews 2025

Vegas Boys hit jackpot in football final!

‘Vat run out 10-point winners Sport

By John Power JJ Kavanagh Kilkenny Senior Football Final 2025 Mullinavat 1-21 Mooncoin 0-14.

Pairc ui Ratha, Glenmore Mullinavat clinched an eight Kilkenny Senior Football title, and seventh in the last nine years, with a ten-point victory over Mooncoin at sunny Glenmore last weekend.

This was a well contested encounter, played in a very sporting manner, by two committed South Kilkenny sides, before a large crowd, on a lovely Spring evening at the splendid Pairc na Ratha. Two spells of Mullinavat dominance either side of the interval proved decisive in this JJ Kavanagh sponsored contest.

The Vegas lads opened with an 0-4 to 0-0 lead with a duo of points from Michael Malone and Oisin Knox.

Mooncoin, senior football league winners a few months ago, settled into the game, with a Seamus Kearns two pointer and a Padraic Murphy free. Mullinavat midfield Tom Aylward and Kearns exchanged points by the twelfth minute (0-5 to 0-3).

Conor Walsh and Oisin Knox extended the Vegas lead, before Paul Hennebrey pointed for Mooncoin on 22 minutes (0-7 to 0-5). Mullinavat were now in the ascendancy however, and by the interval points

by Oisin Knox and Michael Malone, along with a splendid team goal,

finished by Conor Walsh, left Mullinavat seven points clear at the break.

Half time score: Mullinavat 1-9; Mooncoin 0-5.

Mullinavat made a blistering start to the new half with seven unanswered points, from six different scorers, in nine minutes, that ultimately sealed the 2025 Kilkenny Senior football championship. These scores were from Adam Mansfield, a Padraic Dempsey two pointer, Conor Duggan, Oisin Knox, Tom Aylward and Michael Malone (free).

To their credit Mooncoin remained committed and outscored Mullinavat 0-9 to 0-5 in the final twenty minutes with points from the impressive Adam Croke (0-5), Seamus Kearns (0-2), Ryan Croke and Paul Hennebrey. It should also be noted that Mooncoin were minus a player for a second yellow card offence from the 42nd minute.

Mullinavat emptied their bench in the final quarter, where two pointed

frees from Michael Malone, along with points from Padraig Dempsey, Oisin Knox and Jamie Davis, saw another county title go to the Rod Iron men.

This was yet another convincing team performance from Mullinavat, a team where several of their 28-man squad have featured in all seven recent successes. Players like Ger Malone, Tom Aylward, a colossus in midfield, Oisin Knox and Conor Walsh were star performers on this occasion. Mooncoin have improved all year, league winners as already mentioned, and they had defeated Thomastown (2021 champions) and reigning champions Dicksboro to reach this final. Goalkeeper Ciaran Walsh, Paul Hennebrey, Seamus Kearns and Adam Croke were amongst their star performers.

Credit to Glenmore GAA club for their excellent hosting of this game and Mayo native referee Thiagh Morley and his two linesmen for their implementation of the new

rules.

Kilkenny County Board Vice Chairperson Jim Fennelly presented the Ned Langton trophy to Mullinavat captain Jim Culleton postmatch, with Glenmore GAA secretary Jim Dunne representing sponsors JJ Kavanagh’s in attendance.

Mullinavat will now go on to represent Kilkenny in the Leinster Intermediate Championship next Autumn.

Mullinavat team: Jack Walsh (GK), Ian Mansfield, Joe Fennelly, Sean Fitzpatrick, Padraig Dempsey (03, 1x2point), Ger Malone, Padraic Gahan, Michael Malone (0-6, 3 frees), Thomas Aylward (0-2), Conor Walsh (1-1) , Adam Mansfield (01), James Culleton (Captain), Oisín Knox (0-6), Brian Phelan, Conor Duggan (0-1) Subs Used: Ian Duggan, Peter McDonald, Simon Aylward, Jamie Davis (0-1), Fiachra Knox.

Rest Of Panel: Mark McNamara,

Liam Fennelly, Martin Davis, Michael Walsh, Patrick Walshe Shane Aylward, Paddy Murphy, Cian McDonnell, John Walsh.

Management team: Michael Aylward, Richie Devine, Shane Kelly.

Mooncoin Team: Ciaran Walsh, Ryan Carroll, Aidan Doyle, Donnacha Hogan, Killian Hogan, Cormac Daly, Sean O’Dwyer, Paul Hennebry (0-2, 1 free), Ethan Ryan, Cormac Kinsella (captain), Sean Walsh, Stephen Crowley, Adam Croke (0-5, 4 frees), Seamus Kearns (0-5, 1 x 2point), Paraic Murphy (0-1, free).

Subs Used: Ryan Croke (0-1), Martin O’Neill.

Rest of Panel: Jim Delahunty, Aidan Carroll, Jack Ryan, Darragh Murphy, Danny Purcell, Billy Delahunty, Kevin Crowley, Martin Gannon (injured).

Management team: Sean Wall, Michael Grace, Joe Kearns.

Referee: Thiagh Morley.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client Dick Howley . Permission to construct Slatted shed with loose area and all associated site works.

Demolition of open tank also required at Ballytarsney, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, 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.

Planning Permission is sought by Tallywood Limited for an amendment to previously granted planning permission (application no. 23/60192), in order to construct 36 no. housing accommodation units which may accommodate elderly / assisted living at Hebron Industrial Estate, Road 1, Leggetsrath West, Co. Kilkenny.

The development, as amended, will consist of a) The clearance of the 0.65 hectare site b) The construction of 24 no 2-bed apartment units and 12 no. 1-bed units in 2 and 3 storey blocks with a central landscaped courtyard, c) The extension and modification of existing shared carparking area and the provision of carparking dedicated to proposed housing units, d) The construction of communal bin storage facilities and bicycle parking areas, e) The utilization of existing primary access from Hebron Industrial Estate, Road 1, as permitted under planning application numbers 08/859 (A.B.P ref. PL10.232618) & 10/101, f) Site boundary treatments and all associated site development works

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Aidan Walsh intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing detached garage and all associated site development works at 5 The Bungalow, Garringreen, Johnswell Road, Kilkenny R95 KHD7.

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, Kellie Quinn and Sean Long intend to apply for Planning Permission to construct a new two storey dwelling house, new single storey detached garage, new vehicular site entrance, new proprietary sewage treatment system and percolation area and all associated site development works at Lisdowney, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL John and Karen Farrell are applying for planning permission for the construction of a domestic garage and store with attached shading structure and to carry out all associated site development works at Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

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

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

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

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

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

The proposed development is a change of plans to permitted development granted under planning application no.

23/60192, which consisted of permission to construct 30 no. housing accommodation units (24 no 2-bed maisonette units and 6 no. 3-bed duplex apartment units) and will result in the change of 6 no 3-bed duplexes to 12 no. 1-bed apartments.

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

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

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission for retention as built is being sought by Kevin Connolly for 1. a commercial heavy goods vehicle trailer lock-up storage yard area of 4800m2, 2. utilising the vehicular entrance permitted under planning application no 16/681 and 3. all associated screen landscape planting and associated site development works at Shankill, Paulstown, Co. Kilkenny.

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

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

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sylvia Heffernan, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for: (A) Alterations to site boundary, including boundary treatment. (B) Alterations & provision of a vehicular entrance. To my residential site.

Including all associated site works related to these changes. At De Clare House, Gallowshill, Bennettsbridge Road, Kilkenny.

The application also includes an offer to enter into a legal agreement under section 47 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended), under which the applicant would cede land to the north of the northern boundary of this site and which is in her ownership, to Kilkenny County Council at no cost to the Planning Authority.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed; www.mkelly.ie

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

LEAHY 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of BB Palmer (nee) Leahy who died 6th May 2024 Her brother Donal Leahy who died 18th May 2024 late of Golf View Terrace and Basingstoke, England Missing you both The days we lost you both Our whole world fell apart Days will pass and twin into years But we will always remember you both With silent tears Out of our lives, you both may have gone But in our hearts, you both still live on Sadly missed by your loving families

FOLEY PADDY (JR), BABS AND DAUGHTER TERRI FOLEY In loving memory of Paddy (JR), Babs and daughter Terri whose anniversaries occur at this time.

MUM BABS FOLEY 1ST ANNIVERSARY

We think of you in silence We often speak your names But all we have are memories And your pictures in a frame

It broke our hearts to lose you But you didn’t go alone A part of me went with you The day God took you home

No length of time can take away Our thoughts of you every day Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday

In life I loved you dearly In death I love you still I hold a place in my heart That only you can fill

Sadly missed never forgotten Your loving family XX

Loved and sadly missed Catherine, Tom, Michael, Terri, Emma (Trish) and great grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass for BB and Donal On Sunday 11th of May at 10 am in St. Canice’s Church

RITA TREHY 2ND ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of our dear sister Rita, late of 9 Emmet Street who died on 11th May 2023.

R.I.P Rita, your hands can’t be touched anymore And your smile can’t be seen Your presence will always be missed everyday Those we love don’t go away You are always with us day and night Sadly missed and loved by your loving sisters and brothers.

Anniversary Mass in St. Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday 11th of May at 5.30 pm.

DONAL LEAHY 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Donal Leahy who died 18th May 2024 late of Basingstoke, England.

A whole year has passed And remembering you is easy We do it everyday But the pain we carry in our hearts That will never go away Love you forever Donna and Christine

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. 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.D.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

Classifieds Motors

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

087 2587745

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 9th May 2025