Kilkenny Observer 10 April 2026

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Friday 10th April 2026

April's Fuel New talks, new costs, and new protests  News, Page 3

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Cyber Bullying Coco's Law and Gardai in our classrooms  Marian Heron, Page 12

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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Let’s keep God out of the classroom, say parents

Fuel if you think it’s over, despite talks Talks begin today, Friday 10 April, between the US and Iran after the latter said it had accepted a two-week ceasefire, with the talks taking place in Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad.

President Trump agreed to suspend attacks on the condition that Tehran fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abbas Araghchi, said safe passage through the strategic waterway would be ensured for two weeks through coordination with the country’s armed forces.

Trump’s move followed a request from Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, who urged Washington to extend its deadline for a deal and called on Iran to reopen the strait.

All was contingent on Iran also suspending hostilities and fully opening the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping traffic, which the regime

said it would do, while insisting it still exerted “dominion” over the waterway.

The deal allowed Trump to extricate himself from what was shaping up to be a treacherous choice – either escalating with his promise that a “whole civilisation will die tonight” or backing down and undermining his credibility.

The US president may have only bought himself a temporary reprieve, however.

Meanwhile, disruption from a protest against rising fuel prices continued across the country.

Demonstrators driving tractors, lorries and trucks formed slow-moving convoys in a number of counties.

One Kilkenny man told RTÉ’ that the 90-minute drive to Dublin Airport took him six hours. He missed his flight and had to return home.

Severel of the convoys converged on Dublin city cen-

tre and a rally was held on O’Connell Street. Speaking at the event, one of the organisers, James Geoghegan, said 28 different protests had taken place across the country.

Forecourts are facing imminent fuel issues as protesters block key infrastructure. Kevin McPartlan of Fuels for Ireland said there were fears the blockade would hit supplies in the coming days.

The protests come as the State took in an extra €6m in excise duty last month as motorists paid more for fuel due to the war in Iran.

Meanwhile, Billy Kelleher said that, now that the former Green Party leader and Energy Minister accepted the role nuclear energy could play in securing Ireland’s energy security and achieving climate neutrality, it was time for an “honest national discussion”.

Kelleher, who has consistently called for an open debate

on the role of nuclear energy in securing energy security, was commenting after Eamon Ryan, in a newspaper opinion editorial, accepted a role for nuclear in Europe meeting its energy and climate objectives.

“Eamon Ryan and I have previously disagreed profoundly on the issue of nuclear. It’s now clear that, with the benefit of being out of office and no longer the leader of the Green Party, he sees the potential in nuclear.

“With this issue now being discussed at Government SubCommittee level, we need to have a clear-eyed debate at a political level about the potential value of nuclear,” the MEP said.

“Nuclear electricity is not a silver bullet, but it is part of the solution.

“As such, and in order to stimulate a debate within my own party, Fianna Fáil, I will request that a motion in sup-

port of rescinding the 1999 legislative ban on nuclear be tabled for discussion at the Fianna Fáil Ard Fheis next month.”

We needed to move away from the outdated opinions and assumptions about nuclear, and ideological straightjackets, and look honestly and clear-eyed at the potential nuclear could bring a country such as Ireland.

“Our economy is going from strength to strength. Such an economy will require increased energy supplies; renewables will play a huge role, but we need a replacement for gas.

“I think, given the options before us, I’d prefer to go with nuclear than consider a reduction in our herd, or a slowing down of the overall economy,” said Kelleher.

Paul Hopkins Page 8 John Ellis Page 16

Up to 40% of parents of children attending Catholic or other religious denominated schools would prefer their children to attend a multidenominational school, according to a new survey carried out by the Department of Education and Youth.

The survey, launched in November last year, aimed to assess the appetite among parents for multidenominational, coeducational and Irish-medium education.

Asked about the results, Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton said there was a “high level of engagement” from parents and guardians of children about to go to primary school or currently attending primary school.

Some 41% of affected households responded to the survey. Over 200,000 households submitted validated responses.

According to the Department, the survey indicated: • Approximately 60% of parents in denominational schools wish to retain that ethos • Approximately 73% of parents in the 276 single-sex primary schools favour a move to co-education • Approximately 87% of parents in English-medium schools support maintaining English as the primary language of instruction Special Report Page 14

Should Mary have a little lamb?

The HSE has warned parents about the dangers of letting their children cuddle lambs this spring following an increase in parasitic infections, as the annual spring peak for cryptosporidiosis began to take hold.

Cases have risen in recent weeks. Up to 28 March, there have already been 125 notifications of the illness, a notable rise from the 93 cases recorded during the same period last year.

The illness is caused by cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite common in young livestock that can lead to severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and stomach cramps.

Full story Page 10

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Kilkenny’s historical ties with Lebanon At a time when Lebanon continues to face profound challenges, the Cedar Awards ceremony in Kilkenny offered a powerful reminder of the country’s enduring cultural presence and the strength of its global diaspora.

Organised by the Irish Lebanese Cultural Foundation, the event brought together members of the Lebanese diaspora, Irish veterans who served in Lebanon, Irish supporters, academics, and international guests in a ceremony that was both celebratory and deeply reflective.

Opening the evening, Mayor John Coonan welcomed attendees with remarks that grounded the ceremony in Kilkenny’s longstanding openness to global connections. He spoke of the city’s historical ties with Lebanon, setting a tone of warmth and shared heritage.

From the outset, the evening carried a strong sense of connection to Lebanon — not only as a place, but as an idea sustained through its people worldwide. The absence of two awardees, Dr Guita G. Hourani and Mr Maroun Salhani, due to the current situation in Lebanon, was acknowledged with particular sensitivity, underscoring the reality behind the recog-

Lebanon ties: Pictured at the Cedar Awards are: Mrs Nadia Malarky, Dr James Zoghbi, and Mr Guy Jones

nition.

The ceremony paid a moving tribute to the late Professor Suheil Bushrui, whose life’s work exemplified cultural bridging. His translations of Irish literature into Arabic were presented

as transformative acts — bringing Irish voices into the Arab world and positioning Lebanon as a mediator of global culture.

Another awardee, Dr James Zoghbi, added a contemporary dimension to the

narrative of the Lebanese diaspora. In his speech, he spoke with clarity and honesty about the complexities of identity, the struggle for representation, and the importance of advocacy.

His reflections resonated

strongly with themes familiar to many in the Lebanese diaspora; belonging, visibility, and persistence.

A message from the World Lebanese Cultural Union reinforced these themes, emphasising the cedar tree as a

symbol not only of Lebanon itself, but of its people’s resilience and global interconnectedness.

Throughout the evening, Lebanon was present not only in words, but also in sound and emotion. Musical performances inspired by Lebanon created moments of shared memory and recognition, bridging the geographical distance between Kilkenny and Mount Lebanon.

A defining moment of the ceremony was the announcement that a cedar tree would be planted in Mount Lebanon for each awardee. This gesture carried particular symbolic weight, reconnecting diaspora achievement directly with the homeland.

The audience reflected the global reach of Lebanese identity — spanning academia, cultural institutions, and diaspora networks — demonstrating how Lebanon continues to exist beyond its borders through its people.

The Cedar Awards in Kilkenny ultimately conveyed a clear message: despite crisis and distance, Lebanon remains present through its culture, its intellectual contributions, and its diaspora communities that continue to build bridges across the world.

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Great night, great craic in aid of palliative care unit A great night of entertainment in the Rower Hall, Co Kilkenny, this Saturday, 11 April, is in aid of the Oak Ward Palliative Care Unit in University Hospital Waterford.

The night, which is being hosted by Ireland Newfoundland Connections, will feature music from many

talented musicians from the South East who play together under the banner of Best of Friends.

Refreshments will be served on the night and there will be a door prize and a raffle for some fantastic prizes.

Tickets for the event cost €10 a person and the event

will start at 8:00pm sharp.

Organised by Mick Murphy of Graiguenamanagh, in memory of his wife Joan, who spent six weeks in the Oak Ward before her untimely death in 2021, the concert is sure to be a night of rousing music and song.

Joan, who was a former

county councillor, was originally from the Nire Valley in Waterford, worked tirelessly in the community and was involved in many organisations, including the Graiguenamanagh Historical Society, where she was a valued member.

Warm and generous in

spirit, her death left a void in many people’s lives.

The ground floor (Oak Ward) of the South East Palliative Care Centre (SEPC) features 20 in=patient bedrooms with individual patio gardens for patients requiring the expertise of a specialist palliative care from a multi-

disciplinary team of medics.

Day services in palliative medicine, facilities for outpatient appointments and the base of the WHM’s office and the Waterford Community Specialist Palliative Care Team home care service feature on the first floor (Beech Ward).

Nurses ‘can’t afford’ the travel costs to hospitals A letter which was publicly shared by the ‘Support for Nurses, Midwives and Frontline Staff in Ireland’ community page details how nurses are “barely surviving” with the cost of living, as they are commuting from the Midlands to Dublin for work every day because rents in the city are not affordable.

“Our main source of heating is oil. That ran out two weeks ago and I just cannot afford to buy oil to heat our house.

Very few of us have that kind of money. We have two kids and it’s early nights for all of us, where we have the luxury of an electric blanket to keep us warm,” the letter said.

The author said that they don’t get any fuel allowance to cover the 100km trip to work and back each day, and that, on top of that, they are paying €10 in daily hospital parking charges.

On the Government’s response to the crisis – which was chiefly to cut excise duty by 20 cent per litre on diesel and 15 cent per litre on petrol – the letter said: “Our Government should be thoroughly ashamed of themselves. Tonight they’ll all be patting themselves on the back for giving their subjects a measly few pence off

the pumps. They’ll go home to warm houses and have hot dinners in front of them.

Many of them will be landlords who will collect extortionate rent off the likes of me and won’t care an iota that we are living with no heating and worrying about how we will be able to feed our kids.”

The General Secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), Phil Ní Sheaghdha, told TheJournal. ie that the union believed the Government “must come to the table” via a forum such as the Labour Employer Economic Forum with “real solutions to the pressures workers are under”.

Ní Sheaghdha said that nurses and midwives working in communities had to use their own personal cars to carry out their work, and that they “must not be out of pocket due to rising fuel costs”.

“The INMO is seeking for these workers to receive the highest level of mileage available during this crisis,” she said.

Ní Sheaghdha said a large cohort of healthcare workers couldn’t live in close proximity to the cities they work in due to high rent costs and a lack of affordable housing.

€1.75m initiative AI Good Fund Rethink Ireland is launching a new €1.75m national initiative to help close the growing AI literacy and adoption gap in Ireland’s non-profit sector, supporting organisations to build practical skills to apply artificial intelligence in their day-to-day work.

This project is funded by Google.org, with match funding by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. The AI for Good Fund will empower non-profits, social enterprises and community organisations to strengthen

their impact through datadriven decision-making and digital innovation.

As part of the initiative, a series of ‘Discovery Day’ workshops will take place nationwide in June and September. These in-person workshops will provide hands-on training and guidance at no cost, helping organisations understand how AI can be applied in real-world settings to achieve better outcomes, with capacitybuilding support from USbased non-profit, Project Evident.

The Discovery Days

are part of a wider programme that will support 30 organisations through a 12-month-long AI Opportunity Accelerator, including access to sub-grants, technical support and mentoring to embed responsible AI use into their operations, governance and strategic planning.

Announcing the new initiative, Deirdre Mortell, CEO, Rethink Ireland, said: “The AI gap is the new literacy gap. The non-profit sector, with its focus on people and communities, cannot afford to be left behind. It presents an

enormous opportunity for organisations to deepen their impact, operate more effectively and reach more people. This fund will support organisations across Ireland to build the skills, confidence and ethical frameworks they need to keep pace with technological advances and to continue delivering tangible impacts with and for their communities.”

For more information and to complete the survey, visit: https://rethinkireland.ie/current_fund/aifor-good/

Children’s Easter plea Poor Box €1.54m to Irish charities Easter should be a time of joy for children, a time of fun with family, getting a break from school and over-indulging in chocolate eggs. But for many young people who turn to Childline, Easter was an endurance test.

Data reveals that Ireland’s only 24/7/365 listening service received a heartbreaking spike in contacts over the three-day Easter period, with almost 1,000 contacts reaching out to volunteers. For some, they

reached out during their darkest moments, with 20 of those contacts discussing suicide.

Elizabeth Donlon Fox, Childline Listening National Supervisor said: “For many children, school is a sanctuary, a breathing space from their chaotic home lives. They feel more alone and desperate during the holidays when they know that their friends are having fun, while they have to cope with neglect and abuse.”

The so-called Poor Box in Ireland’s courts handed out more than €1.54m to Irish charities last year.

The Poor Box is predominantly used by the District Courts, which deal with criminal offences of a less serious nature, a spokesman for the Courts Service said.

The amounts contributed to the fund can “vary substantially” depending on the offender’s ability to pay, other penalties imposed, and the nature

of the offences. The fund exists as a means of helping largely first-time offenders avoid a conviction for more minor, non-violent offences.

Public order offences are the most common offences for which the poor box option is given to defendants – these offences encompass disorderly behaviour in a public place, failure to follow direction from gardaí, and intoxication, among others.

Figures show payments from

the Court Poor Box were made to hundreds of charities across every county.

They range from small, one-off amounts to sums of over €75,000.

Organisations dealing with addiction, poverty, homelessness, women’s safety, medical services, hospice care and mental health have all benefited from the dispersal of the fund.

Of these charities, chapters of Society of St Vincent de Paul

received almost €100,000, the Little Blue Heroes Foundation received €76,000, Pieta House €63,500, and Merchant’s Quay Project €28,470.

A number of communityfocused organisations such as local men’s sheds, sports clubs, scouts, and TidyTowns received smaller contributions.

Thirty-two payments were made to various cancer charities, according to the Poor Box in Ireland group.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

It’s back to Square One with heat or eat crux An oil crisis back then and embarrassing hairstyles notwithstanding, the 1970s were the good old days. I thought we never had it so good.

And it seems I was right. A study suggests our global prosperity peaked in 1978, and it’s been downhill ever since.

Governments have tended to build economic policies around what we term Gross Domestic Product (GDP) – the sum of all money transactions in any given economy.

Such GDP has risen fairly steadily — and often dramatically — since World War II, implying we have all become much more prosperous.

However, critics now point out that GDP only tells half the story for it fails to account for social factors and environmental damage, not to mention carbon taxes or wars on Iran.

Economists now use a more comprehensive set of measures for economic progress.

GPI: no, it’s not a satnav but the Genuine Progress Indicator which adjusts expenditure to account for social and environmental costs, such as pollution, crime and inequality, and for beneficial activities where no money changes hands such as housework and volunteering.

The Government’s €253m. spending towards alleviating the soaring prices of energy may help motorists and hauliers and those in receipt of social welfare, but has done little to offset heating bills for the majority. And what benefit it does in the interim will be negated by that forthcoming carbon tax.

However, there is worse to come – and it will offset the Coalition’s current bandaid solution, with food prices set to soar by up to 10% due to the unlawful war in the Middle East.

Retail expert Damian O’Reilly says this will see families having to spend up

to €700 more a year to feed themselves.

O’Reilly, a senior lecturer in retail management at TU Dublin, says higher oil prices will feed into higher food prices within weeks, even if the war on Iran stopped tomorrow. And prices on the supermarket shelves would start rising even more than they are currently within the next two to six months.

O’Reilly bases his prediction on an analysis of data on crude oil price spikes and how that feeds into inflation.

The cost of filling a shopping trolley will jump anywhere between eight and 10 per cent, he says. This will mean shopping costs would go up by between €50 and €60 a month, or up to €720 over a year. Even if crude oil prices stay above $100 that still feeds into higher food prices.

“Evidence from oil price increases that sustained over several months show there’s

a significant increase in the price of food that seems to follow an oil price rise. The most recent example has been the Ukraine war,” he told RTÉ. Food prices would be affected by higher transport and logistics costs, the cost of refrigeration, fertiliser costs, farm machinery prices

“The benefit it does will be negated by carbon tax ...

and packaging costs.

Meanwhile, chief economist at Bank of Ireland Coral Mac Coille says Brent crude oil prices are likely to fall to around $89 a barrel by the end of 2026. But says the impact of higher petrol, diesel and home-heating oil prices are still likely to push up inflation rates.

We hardly need replies to questions in the C ­ redit U ­ nion Consumer Sentiment Survey ­to show that many consumers are bracing themselves for a major hit to their finances as the year progresses with rising bills and the cost of living.

The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) think-tank and the Central Bank are both warning of inflationary pressure in the economy as higher oil prices begin to bite. The ESRI predicts headline ­inflation in our economy will rise this year – and next year.

A more prolonged conflict

in the Middle East with an extended spike in energy costs could see “price rises across a wide range of goods and services” resulting in higher inflation and a dampening of economic activity. Even if the conflict ends soon there will be a lasting impact on prices.

Advising someone to layer up on clothing to stay warm is pretty basic advice and common sense.

However, to suggest that people “shop around” for fuel or food while, even with a decent two-wage income, one parent is worrying about children and whether to eat or heat while the other is wondering if there will be enough petrol to get to and from work by the month’s end, is pushing people’s patience – and potential poverty – one step too far.

Meanwhile, you could always try Micheal Martin’s Irish solution to an Irish problem ... drive slowly or take the bus.

Large numbers turn out for Good Friday walk

Over 300 people turned out for the Annual Good Friday Walk, which is the 22nd year of the walk, and was led by Bishop Ger Nash, Apostolic Administrator of Ossory, and Fr. Willie Purcell. Each walker received a St. Francis of Assisi cross in remembrance of the walk in this year of St. Francis.

“It was very encouraging to see the number of young adults who walked,” said Fr. Willie Purcell.

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Spring lambs not so cuddly The HSE has warned parents about the dangers of letting their children cuddle lambs this spring, following an increase in parasitic infections, as the annual spring peak for cryptosporidiosis begins to take hold.

Cases have risen in recent weeks. Up to March 28, there have already been 125 notifications of the illness, a notable rise from the 93

cases recorded during the same period last year.

The illness is caused by cryptosporidium, a microscopic parasite common in young livestock that can lead to severe diarrhoea, vomiting, fever and stomach cramps.

While often manageable in adults, the infection can be severe in vulnerable groups, particularly children.

Last week, health officials in Wales highlighted the gravity of the threat, noting that 35% of the 525 cases recorded there last year were in children under the age of 10.

Dr Andrew Nelson, a senior epidemiologist at Public Health Wales, said that while farm visits were a wonderful opportunity for families, it was vital to remember that

young animals carry germs that cause illness.

The UK Health Security Agency further warned that these bugs can be passed through contact with animals, their droppings, or even contaminated surfaces such as fences and gates.

To ensure a safe experience when visiting farms, the HSE stresses that the single most important measure is

washing hands thoroughly with soap and warm running water immediately after touching animals and before eating.

Critically, parents are warned that hand gels and wipes do not work, as they fail to remove the bugs found in farm dirt.

Families are advised to stay on marked pathways, avoid entering pens, and ensure

children do not kiss animals or put contaminated toys or dummies in their mouths.

Furthermore, pregnant women should avoid all contact with sheep during lambing and stay away from dirty farm clothing.

Finally, visitors should only eat in designated areas and clean their footwear before leaving the farm to avoid spreading germs.

File is sent to DPP in continuing saga of the 1980s Kerry Babies scandal The Garda investigation into a Kerry couple who were arrested on suspicion of the murder of an infant child more than 40 years ago has concluded, with a file sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

The conclusion of the investigation comes three years after the arrest of the middle-aged couple. They deny all allegations put to them, their solicitor Padraig O'Connell has said.

The file on the murder of the infant, known as Baby John, in 1984 was submitted to the DPP within the last two months and, according to the Sunday Independent, it is understood that it recommended a range of possible charges.

The investigation file is understood to include DNA test results that Gardaí claim prove the couple are the infant's parents. Detectives have also interviewed family members and long-standing friends and associates of the couple.

Investigators are understood to recommend a range of possible charges against the couple. A source said the file went to the DPP "in the last couple of months", and it will be up to the DPP to decide whether any charges should be brought against them.

"It is a matter that will likely be considered at a senior level in the office of the DPP, given the sensitive and complex nature of the case and the high level of public interest in it," the source said.

Mr O'Connell, a Killarneybased solicitor who has represented the couple since their arrests in March 2023, said last night that while he had no official communication with An Garda Síochána, he believed "anecdotally" that the file on the case had gone to the DPP.

He criticised the Gardaí's "extraordinary delay" in completing the investigation.

"My clients are trying to live a life that they cannot live because of this black cloud hanging over them. It is a black cloud of despair due to the delay, which is totally unconscionable," he said.

The Garda Press Office was contacted for comment yesterday afternoon.

The murder of Baby John goes to the heart of what became the Kerry babies scandal, a shameful episode in Ireland's history.

The infant washed up on White Strand beach in Cahersiveen in April 1984, with 28 stab wounds to his body and a broken neck. He was three days old when he was killed and his body was found two days later, according to the then state pathologist John Harbison.

He was christened Baby John by a local undertaker, who buried the unclaimed infant in the graveyard in Cahersiveen, with local school children forming a guard of honour.

The baby's murder led to a notoriously flawed Garda investigation that led to Joanne Hayes being wrongly accused of giving birth to and killing the baby, based on false confessions. The State eventually apologised to the Hayes family in 2020, leading to the new investigation into the murder of Baby John.

New DNA technology was deployed to trace the infant's family. Local people were asked to volunteer DNA samples. Although the couple were not asked to provide DNA, they came to the attention of Gardaí when DNA offered by a relative provided a partial match.

Subsequent inquiries brought Gardaí to the Kerry couple's home on March 23, 2023.

Kilkenny youth on body image and fast fashion A total of 710 students from across Kilkenny, Kildare, Laois, Clare, Carlow, Offaly, Tipperary, Westmeath, Wexford and Waterford took part in the Young Social Innovators (YSI) Speak Out Tour recently, presenting innovative projects aimed at tackling pressing local and national issues.

The students addressed themes including body image and eating habits, the environmental impact of pollution and fast fashion, and concerns around

energy drink consumption among young people.

Teams also examined online gaming, gambling awareness, and discrimination.

Community-focused projects explored gender balance in sport, the lack of town facilities for young people, and broader social inequalities. Their presentations reflected a strong awareness of both global issues and the day-today realities facing young people in their own communities.

Each team delivered a two-minute presentation, sharing their research, action taken to tackle the social issue, lived experiences, and calls to action with a live audience and the YSI Speak Out Panel.

The energy and depth of discussion at the Kilkenny event highlighted the leadership potential of young people determined to make meaningful change.

Young Social Innovators (YSI) is Ireland’s leading youth-led social innovation education programme, em-

powering young people to develop solutions to social, environmental, and community challenges. Since its inception in 2001, YSI has engaged thousands of young people in meaningful, action-driven initiatives that have left a lasting impact nationwide.

For more information, visit: www.youngsocialinnovators.ie * Picture shows members of YSI Team 'Lámh le Lámh', Coláiste Pobail Osraí, Kilkenny City

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Coco’s Law – a lesson worth learning Is celebrity protected against online abuse? You might think so, especially when an individual’s success is hard won.

But look at the way that nasty comments about his appearance have impacted Peaky Blinders star Barry Keoghan, to the point where he told US radio Sirius XM listeners: “I don’t want to attend places and I don’t want to go outside.”

Keoghan, from Dublin’s Summerhill, overcame the difficulties of losing his mother and having 14 foster homes to star in movies like The Banshees of Inisherin and Saltburn. Who are these people who revel in making damaging posts? Grown-up cyber bullies, who should know better.

Just where do you start with behaviour like that? You only need to look at the news headlines and catastrophic wars in Ukraine, Lebanon and Iran to see what damage can be done

when bullies expand their activities onto the world stage.

No better place than school where bullying online or off starts and, when unchecked, may continue on into adulthood. Unlike the school yard, social media platforms seem tailor-made for bullying, with all the advantages of privacy, online sharing and, until recently, lack of culpability for minors. Tailor-made, except that they do provide traceable evidence.

Last month the message that cyber bullying is illegal thanks to Coco’s Law 2020, was brought home in classrooms for the first time as a lesson in the Garda Schools’ Programme. Named for Nicole ‘Coco’ Fox who died tragically by suicide in 2018 after years of online abuse, the law makes it an offence punishable by fines or imprisonment to send threatening or offensive communications, or to threaten to send or send intimate images

without an individual’s consent.

While all schools have been required to have anti- bullying programmes by the Department of Education since last year, significantly the Garda Programme emphasises accountability and the point that there are legal consequences to damaging others through bullying online. The law applies to minors.

Why does cyberbullying, including harassment, social exclusion and the posting of embarrassing information, occur in the first place? Pupils who bully do so for a variety of reasons, from the need to feel in control and boost low selfesteem to copying aggression at home.

DCU’s Anti Bullying Centre’s guide points out that it doesn’t happen in isolation.

“Cyberbullying is less likely to happen as a stand-alone act. In general, offline forms of bullying, like school bul-

McGuinness welcomes progress on new €10 million Kilkenny fire station project Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for CarlowKilkenny, John McGuinness, has warmly welcomed the significant progress being made on the development of a new state-of-the-art Fire Station Headquarters for Kilkenny City, describing it as “a vital investment in public safety and emergency response capacity for the region.”

Deputy McGuinness said the confirmation that a 3-acre site has been secured at the Kilkenny Business and Retail Park on the Waterford Road marks a major milestone in the project.

“This is a critically important development for Kilkenny. The current fire station on Gaol Road has served the city well, but it is no longer fit for the demands of a modern emergency service.

This new, purposebuilt headquarters will ensure our fire and rescue personnel have the facilities, equipment and space they need to respond quickly and effectively to

emergencies,” he said.

The project, being advanced by Kilkenny County Council, will see a modern fire station designed

by HLM Architects, who were appointed in early 2024. The overall investment is expected to be in the region of €10 million.

Deputy McGuinness added: “This level of investment demonstrates a clear commitment to strengthening frontline services. Firefighters perform an essential role in protecting lives, homes and businesses, and it is only right that they are

supported with modern, high-quality infrastructure.”

He also noted the wider regional importance of such funding, including for communities in Carlow.

“While this announcement is centred on Kilkenny City, it is important to recognise the broader benefits for the entire CarlowKilkenny constituency. I am particularly mindful of areas such as Hacketstown, where continued investment in emergency services and infrastructure remains crucial to supporting rural communities.”

Concluding, Deputy McGuinness said he would continue to engage with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the project progresses without delay.

“I will be working closely with the council and relevant authorities to ensure this project moves swiftly through the remaining stages. This is a necessary and longoverdue investment, and I look forward to seeing construction begin as soon as possible.”

lying, spill over to the online environment. Bullying that is based on race or ethnicity, is less likely to occur in schools that celebrate different student culture and backgrounds.”

“Named for Nicole ‘Coco’ Fox who died tragically by suicide ...

The guide suggests that conversations around the subject where children may not understand the lasting damage caused by bullying are a more effective way to deal with it than restricting access to social media which can make children feel more isolated. A national survey of 9- to 17 year olds found that 85% of them felt safe on line which was important to them as a way of staying in touch with friends and for entertainment.

The Garda schools programme around Coco’s Law encourages children to tell a trusted adult if they are aware of cyberbullying, like the posting of intimate images.

This is an important step, but the survey found when children saw something that upset them on the internet, only 19% reported telling their parent or caregiver.

Also parents may be unaware of what their offspring are up to online, with

a survey by Cyber Safe Kids showing that 75% of parents didn’t supervise their children’s online use.

We have Jackie Fox, Coco’s mother. to thank for her campaign for a law against cyberbullying. Often changes in the law are due to individual action prompted by tragedy.

Despite all the endless debate and equally endless official inaction about banning social media or smart phones for children under a certain age due to the harm caused, it took a case by a damaged 20-year-old to start change.

In a landmark US court case last month tech giants Meta and YouTube were found to have been liable for designing products that were addictive.

The 20-year-old who claimed her addiction started at six was awarded $6m., setting a ball rolling which will finally cause the big bullies of the tech industry to clean up their act.

Power through flower essences CLAIR WHITTY Are you feeling on edge, stressed, worried, uneasy, or panicky? Sound familiar?

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Rescue Remedy, a flower essence formulated by Dr Edward Bach could be the perfect remedy to help you feel calmer and more focused. It contains five essences, Rock Rose to calm the strong feeling of terror or panic, perfect before exams, flying, or medical appointments. Impatiens for when you are losing your patience and feeling irritable.

Maybe the driver in front of you is going too slow! When

you feel panicked your head is not clear, you can’t hold thoughts, Clematis may help you focus so you feel more grounded. If you hear bad news, get a shock, experience bereavement, or are in an emergency situation, then Star of Bethlehem is there to calm and sooth the soul, so you don’t feel the pain in your heart as intensely.

When you are very stressed or overwhelmed you might feel that you are losing control of the situation or yourself.

Cherry Plum could help you maintain control when you feel like you are an elastic band about to snap.

Rescue Remedy is easy to use, simply add four drops

to a glass of water, or directly on your tongue. There are also Rescue Remedy Pastilles which some people prefer for convenience. They come in Blackcurrant or Elderflower flavour.

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It is especially useful before a stressful event to help you switch off.

Rescue Remedy is my best friend in times of stress maybe it will be yours too.

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

News Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton has welcomed the exceptionally high level of engagement in the national Primary School Survey, with more than 200,000 households submitting validated responses, alongside strong participation from school staff and Boards of Management.

This significant response marks an important step in ensuring that parents and school communities are central to shaping the future direction of primary education.

The department is continuing its detailed analysis of the survey data and is preparing finalised school-specific results for each of the more than 3,200 primary schools that took part.

Preliminary national findings indicate that: • Approximately 60% of parents in denominational schools wish to retain that ethos.

• Approximately 73% of parents in the 276 single-sex primary schools favour a move to co-education.

• Approximately 87% of parents in English-medium schools support maintaining English as the primary language of instruction.

While these figures provide a national overview, it is important to note that it is the preferences within each individual school community that will determine future direction.

Demand for change, or continuity, will vary from school to school. A good response rate at individual school level will also be relevant in assessing parental preferences.

In the coming weeks, detailed school-specific reports will be issued to each of the more than 3,200 participating primary schools. These reports will support patrons, Boards of Management, staff, and parents in considering next steps and their future direction.

Minister Naughton said: “School communities have

What we want for our primary pupils

spoken, and their message is clear: that parents want a central role in shaping the future of their children’s education.

“We have seen an extraordinary level of engagement in the national Primary School Survey, with over 200,000 households responding, which shows a deep commitment from families, staff and Boards of Management to the

direction of their local schools.

“While national trends provide us with a useful context, the most important insight is that every school community is different. The future of each school will be guided not by a one-sizefits-all approach, but by the preferences of its own parents, guardians and wider school community.

“In some communities,

there is a strong desire to maintain existing traditions and ethos. In others, there is a clear appetite for change, whether in relation to school type or structure.

That diversity of views must be respected and reflected. As school-specific reports issue in the coming weeks, they will empower communities with the evidence they need to make informed decisions. This

is about putting parents and school communities firmly at the heart of decision-making for their schools.”

The minister emphasised that: • There will be full transparency, with all school-specific reports to be published.

• Schools will receive clear explanatory guidance to help them interpret their results and understand the steps available to them.

• Any change of a school’s ethos or status should be supported by the evidence base provided by the parental survey results. Schools will have time and space to reflect on what is best for their community.

• The department will provide support to schools that choose to request inclusion in the first tranche of schools seeking to change their status.

Catholic schools still in a class of their own Taking religion out of primary school education is moving at “nought miles an hour”, as only one school has removed Catholic patronage in two years.

Children are sitting at the back of the classroom as their fellow pupils prepare for Communion and Confirmation due to the “fundamentally flawed” official process, according to Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins.

For the last two years, the number of schools switching to a multi-denominational ethos has stagnated as the Government changes its response to taking religion out of schools.

Just one more school – Cuilmore National School in Newport, Co. Mayo – is due to change patronage by September, according to the

Department of Education.

The Government has been running a divestment programme since 2011 that has resulted in just 32 schools switching to a multi-denominational ethos in 15 years.

Progress on the reconfiguration of primary schools has halted since 2024.

Currently, just 172 primary

schools are multi-denominational, while 2,705 primary schools are still under Catholic patronage. There are just a couple of non-Catholic schools in Kilkenny/Carlow.

Ms Cummins, who is a former chairwoman of the Educate Together group, said parents were being forced to send their children to Catholic schools because they had no other choice in their area.

She accused the Government of moving at “nought miles an hour” in terms of the pace of switching away from predominantly Catholic-run primary schools.

“What we are seeing in schools is children sitting down the back of classrooms who are being excluded from part of the curriculum.

They are sitting there doing nothing, losing out on their

education,” Ms Cummins said.

“I feel very strongly that religion should be done outside school time, in your own time.”

There are four counties – Leitrim, Cavan, Monaghan and Longford – where religious primary schools are the only option.

In other counties such as Donegal, Tipperary and Roscommon, there is a single multi-denominational school.

The previous Government set a target of 400 multidenominational schools by 2030, but no such target was repeated in this Programme for Government, which included only a commitment to “increasing choice” for parents.

The Department of Edu-

cation is evaluating the responses from Ireland’s largest-ever online, schoolspecific survey, which received more than 240,000 responses – almost half of eligible households.

It asked parents about patronage, ethos, language and co-education preferences, and it is due to be published this year.

The first patronage transfers on the back of the survey are expected by September 2027.

Emer Nowlan, chief executive of Educate Together, said the group hoped there would be 20 to 30 schools that should become multi-denominational by September 2027 after the survey.

“It will open up a pathway that isn’t there for people.

The fact that there hasn’t been progress in divestment

is not surprising because there hasn’t been a plan,” Ms Nowlan said.

Social Democrats councillor Paddy Monahan, who is a primary school teacher and part of the Education Equality group, said that divestment had been “a predictable failure”.

He said children were being “stigmatised” when they go to a Catholic school and have to sit at the back of the class while their classmates are preparing for Communion or Confirmation.

“There’s no guidelines for how the schools are to deal with this,” he said.

At its annual congress last year, the largest teaching union, the INTO, recommended the department accelerate the divestment of schools.

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News

Community connect fund opens for 2026 with €150,000 to support local groups

In a time when communities continue to face uncertainty and rising pressures, St. Canice’s Credit Union remains a constant and reliable presence - supporting members, strengthening local initiatives, and reinvesting directly into the areas it serves. St. Canice’s Credit Union is delighted to launch the 2026 Community Connect Fund, making €150,000 available to community groups and organisations across its branch network, including High St. Kilkenny, Bagenalstown, Callan, Piltown, Graignamanagh, Ballyragget, Durrow,

Mountrath, and Rathdowney.

The Community Connect Fund is designed to champion projects that deliver meaningful, longlasting benefits to local people. Since its inception in 2017, the fund has supported over 140 organisations, helping a wide range of initiatives including Ossory Youth, Kilkenny Aqua Canoe Club, SOS Dementia Café and Freshford Community Playground. This year, St. Canice’s remains committed to supporting projects that reflect its values and make a real, sustainable impact.

This announcement comes in a year where St. Canice’s Credit Union reached an

important milestone: more than €1 million has now been given back to the community through a combination of Community Connect funding, sponsorships, and donations. In addition, St. Canice’s was proud to host the national launch of the Irish League of Credit

Unions’ ‘For Communities’ report earlier this year, which highlighted the extraordinary contribution credit unions continue to make across the island of Ireland, including over €8 million given back to local communities by credit unions in 2025 alone.

“We are extremely proud

of the positive impact St. Canice’s Credit Union continues to make in the communities we serve,” said Carmel Butler, CEO of St. Canice’s Credit Union.

“We have seen first-hand the growth, change, and real improvements that emerge when local groups are given

the support they need. And importantly, every euro we give back is made possible through our members. By saving and borrowing with their local credit union, they enable us to invest directly in the projects, services, and initiatives that matter most.

The more our members choose to stay local with their finances, the more we can reinvest into strengthening our communities.”

St. Canice’s Credit Union encourages a broad and diverse range of applications from organisations of all sizes, large or small, from arts to sports, social enterprises, heritage, environmental projects, youth initiatives, and everything in between.

Projects with collaboration, shared facilities, or cross community benefit are especially welcomed. The Credit Union is seeking projects that will deliver visible, sustainable improvements and enhance community wellbeing for years to come.

Applications are now open, with full details available on the St. Canice’s Credit Union website: www.stcanicescu.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Jobs market slows, as housing crisis rises Another 300 people signed on to the live register last month, pushing the seasonally adjusted total to 171,100.

The unadjusted March figure reached 168,072, a 5.1% jump on the same month last year.

Yet, again, the Government appears slow to respond to these warning signs. The unemployment rate, released by the Central Statistics Office last week, increased to 4.7 %, with the 25-34 age group now the largest group on the register. It is still low by historical standards, but it is clear that the jobs market is slowing down.

Jack Kennedy, senior economist at Indeed, puts the rise in context. Job postings have slipped to just 2% above prepandemic levels, down from 8% earlier this year. Global volatility, the Middle East conflict, energy costs and market worries are making businesses cautious. “A sustained period of high energy costs, inflationary pressure and volatility would be far more

challenging,” Kennedy warns.

Firms may halt hiring and investment. Workers will push for bigger wage rises as living costs climb.

Ordinary families, already squeezed by rising living costs, could see wage growth stall, making it harder to cover mortgages or rents. Young workers may face fewer job openings or delayed promotions. This comes at a time when many are already

finding it tough to get on the property ladder or start a family.

Recent Revenue Commissioners’ figures tell a similar story of underlying strain. Last year they wrote off €271.5 million in uncollectible tax, a 70% leap from €158.9 million in 2024. Most of these losses came from insolvent businesses, and the fallout of unpaid Covid-era tax warehousing and ‘non-

engaging’ firms. Revenue insists the surge is not due to policy changes. Still, the jump coincides with a record €106 billion tax take, up 9% on the previous year. The economy is still pulling in record revenue, but you can already see clear pockets of real distress starting to appear with more people signing on to the live register and businesses going bust.

These warning signs are worrying enough on their

own, but they make the Government’s housing mistakes feel even more damaging right now. For more than 13 years successive governments, most recently this Fianna Fáil-Fine Gael coalition, have been warned that tinkering with the rental market without a serious plan to build homes would backfire. But on they went anyway.

Last year, they extended Rental Pressure Zones nationwide. This month they brought in new rules designed to attract big international funds back into the rental sector, at the direct expense of small Irish landlords.

The latest Irish Independent/REA survey shows that in the first quarter more than 40% of three-bed semidetached homes sold in 10 counties were former rental properties dumped by small landlords. Taxed at over 50% on rental income and stripped of basic rights over problem tenancies, they have simply walked away. The stock of

private rentals is shrinking fast, exactly when we need more of it.

This is reckless shorttermism. Why clear out thousands of existing rentals now to make way for thousands that we might not see for another few years? And have we not seen the same mess before? Just look at how the Government’s attempts to speed up planning backfired and made things far worse.

We have a housing crisis that has been worsening each and every year for 13 years, with homelessness heading towards 20,000. It is hammering our economy, our competitiveness and, worst of all, our families, our young people and our society as a whole. And year after year, it just keeps getting worse.

It’s time we demanded our Government stop the endless tinkering and finally build the homes we so badly need. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 163

"It's meant to be spring’"

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News

Jurassic Newpark’s “Páirc na nDineasár” airs on Siar Linn TG4 Jurassic Newpark is getting its very own special episode on Siar Linn on CÚLA, TG4’s fun children’s channel, and it’s all about showing off how amazing Newpark really is!

In this exciting adventure, viewers will explore Newpark’s world of giant, lifelike dinosaurs that roar, move, and make you feel like you’ve

travelled back in time. From the moment you step into Newpark, there are surprises everywhere, with hands-on activities, exciting trails, and lots of chances to learn while having fun. The episode will follow the journey through Newpark’s interactive exhibits, where kids can dig, discover, and learn all about

dinosaurs and the prehistoric world. Siar Linn brings all the magic of Jurassic Newpark straight to your screen in a fun and friendly way. This special feature shows why Newpark is such a brilliant place for families, school trips, and anyone who loves adventure, dinosaurs, and big discoveries!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Parish Housekeeper

Two candidates for the role of the priests housekeeper, but only one Moll

Always a problem when the Bishop comes to call

Kevin Lawlor Fitzpatrick, directs Moll

The Parish Housekeeper

Cast and crew of Fourth Wall theatre group who present ‘Moll’, by JB Keane

When ‘Fourth Wall’ theatre company take to the stage in Thomastown Concert hall, one thing is certain. The audience will have the time of their lives. Comedy will abound. As a matter of fact there will be little else, because their production of Moll by JB Keane is a laugh from beginning to end.

John B. Keane's Moll is a comedic play set in a rural Irish presbytery where a shrewd new housekeeper, Moll (Maureen Kettle), takes control of the household. She manipulates the elderly Canon Pratt, starves the young curates, masters the parish finances through bingo, and secures a comfortable future, ultimately disrupting the clerical hierarchy.

The play is famously described in marketing and synopsis materials as a comedy where a new housekeeper is compared to a change in government: "When a presbytery gets a new housekeeper,

it becomes like a country that gets a change of government, or like a family that gets a new stepmother."

"Tis hard to come back to the plain black and white when one is used to the purple." (A famous line spoken by the character Moll Kettle herself, describing her need for luxury).

However, comedy aside , let’s take a look at Ireland of the 60’s and 70’s and the role of the priests housekeeper.

Parochial housekeeper The Parochial housekeeper had become a veritable institution of Irish society during the first half of the twentieth century. While her role was to manage the Parochial house, her proximity to the functions of the Parish Priest enabled her to quietly relieve him of almost all of those functions. Even in the discharge of such canonical

Making advances to secure a future: Mrs Andover and Ulick who appear in the production of ‘Moll’

duties as the celebration of Mass or the administering of the sacraments the seasoned housekeeper assumed a partnership with the priest and when a petrified parishioner called at her door with a ‘token’ for Mass, she took his money with an assurance that: “We will be saying that Mass for you next Wednesday”.

It was a source of pride for any mother to have her daughter installed as the Parish Priest’s housekeeper. It gave the family a status equivalent to that of having a daughter a nun. Within a short time the newly appointed housekeeper became an authority on Canon Law and Liturgical protocol and she could even have opinions on matters theological.

She became well versed in the Church Calendar and she was on first name terms with every priest in the diocese. She was able to cook for and converse with all ‘quality’

visitors and she knew the correct form of address for every level of the hierarchy from Priest to Pope.

Indeed she carried in her head a store of knowledge and a wealth of wisdom that was rare and reserved for a special few.

It is not surprising, therefore, that this rara avis, this paragon of propriety and correctness, would come under the quizzical eye and subtle wit of John B. Keane and come to be characterised so forcefully in the person of Moll.

Fourth Wall open their rún of Moll in the Thomastown Concert hall on Saturday April 11 with further dates in, Moat, Dunamaise, Birr, Summerhill and Kilcullen.

Cast includes, ReginaO’Kelly, John Kavanagh, Kevin Lawlor Fitzpatrick, Joe Murphy, Michael Brennan, Mags McCarthy, and Tom Butler. Directed by Kevin Lawlor Fitzpatrick. Stage Manager is John Doheny

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Puccini, Zeffirelli, Jack and the scalper!

There was a right schmozzle about opera, and ballet, recently when actor Timothée Chalamet (he played Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown and lost out to Best Actor in Marty Supreme at this year’s Oscars) said in an interview that no one cares about opera and ballet.

There was a swift riposte from the prestigious Metropolitan Opera House in New York who quickly pointed out that its performances were as popular and well attended as ever. All of which struck a note (an operatic note you could say) with yours truly as it was in the same Metropolitan Opera House that I attended my very first opera!

It’s the early Eighties, my wife and I, and our great friends Jack and Diane, had just finished a pleasant meal in an Italian restaurant off 5th Avenue. “So, what would you folks like to do now,” asked Jack, our host, eager to repay

my wife and I for the hospitality we had shown them when they honeymooned in Ireland.

“What about the opera?”

I jokingly suggested (I, who had never been to one before) “The opera?” Jack echoed with a hint of uncertainty in his voice. And then after a moment announced: “Right, let’s do it – the opera

it is.” And off we taxied to the Metropolitan.

We had no tickets, of course.

A minor detail as far as I was concerned. A minor detail perhaps in Dublin or Wexford but not in New York. Jack was optimistic, however, that we might acquire some cancellations – although the likelihood of getting four, let alone four together, seemed

highly unlikely. “Any tickets at all will do,” we told him.

We didn’t mind. We didn’t have to mind. There wasn’t a spare ticket to be had. ‘Sold Out’ and ‘Full House’ notices greeted us everywhere, understandably as the set of Puccini’s La Boheme (the Met’s most popular and frequently performed opera) was created by Franco Zeffirelli, the famous movie director who was also directing the opera. A massive attraction for sure.

Jack, however, was determined not to disappoint us.

He retreated into the shadows by the side of the opera house and the last I saw of him he was in animated conversation with someone. Then he returned with four tickets.

“Alleluia.”, he declared, “we’re off to the opera.”

Jack, I have no doubt, got very little change, if any, from $600 from the tout or scalper as he called him. The tickets,

needless to say, weren’t great and we were scattered to the four corners of the Metropolitan Opera House.

I found myself high up in the top tiers, near the ceiling, a place that gave rise to the expression ‘The Gods’, the seats being that bit nearer to heaven! ‘The Gods’ may also have been responsible for the invention of opera glasses, to help those ‘nearer heaven’ see a little more of the singers and set, although, in my case, a telescope would not have gone astray.

Indeed, at one stage I gently tapped the elderly gentleman in front of me on the shoulder and politely asked if I might borrow his opera glasses for a moment. He was quite taken aback and looked rather horrified at the intrusion but being a civilised New Yorker handed them to me. Obviously it is not the done-thing to borrow someone’s opera glasses, especially in the New

York Met. This after all wasn’t Croke Park where you could borrow a match programme from your neighbour and share a bag of bullseyes or polo mints with them.

The opera glasses did prove enormously helpful for viewing Zeffirelli’s magnificent set.

Come the interval we rendezvoused in the foyer for flutes of champagne, no less, to compensate Jack for his sobering and costly encounter with the scalper. Our seats may not have been great but the opera was excellent, the set first class, and the performance superb.

I have been to several operas since, not least here in Kilkenny during our Arts Festival. However, the ‘sensational’ production of La Boheme in New York’s magnificent Metropolitan Opera House will be, needless to say, the one I’ll always remember.

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News

Murder mystery at Thomastown concert hall If you like your coffee black, your femmes fatales ice-cold and your unreliable narrators on the seedy side, then The Tangled Skirt, running in Thomastown Community Hall on Thursday and Friday, April 16th and 17th, might just be the play for you.

Playwright Steve Braunstein, a selfprofessed aficionado of the classic age of Hollywood film noir of the 1940's and 50's, fashions a modern take on those twisty tales of deceit, corruption, seduction and violence, wallowing in the tropes of the time and enjoying himself mightily in the process. The play is in many ways a celebration of what those movies had to offer and an affectionate homage to the artistic achievements of a bygone era.

Shadowy images The first nod to those shadowy images flickering on the silver screen is in the setting, a grubby bus station in a ‘barely noticeable place' a few miles south of the Canadian border. It's after midnight, an hour when everybody in this sleepy ‘zone of nothingness’ should be sleeping.

But, of course, they're not...

Enter Bailey Bryce, clutching a duffel bag, breathless, furtive and obviously spooked by something.

It is not giving too much of the plot away to describe him as a small-town dreamer, a self-styled ‘weaver of tales’ who has ‘never been anywhere’. He deals with the harsh realities of life through a combination of illusion and

Eamonn O'Connor plays the scheming and shifty Bailey Bryce while Clodagh Kenny smoulders as the seductive Rhonda Claire in this St. Michael's Theatre Drama Group production.

Photo by Roisin Hensman

Kilkenny launches “Borrow, Use, Return” scheme for greener, waste-free celebrations A new initiative helping communities celebrate sustainably has launched in County Kilkenny, introducing a simple but impactful idea: borrow your partyware instead of throwing it away.

The “Borrow, Use, Return” pilot scheme provides reusable party packs through selected community groups, making it easy for residents to host birthdays, events and gatherings without relying on single-use plastics.

Developed by Environmental Awareness Officers across the Southern Waste Region including Kilkenny the initiative is funded by the EPA’s National Waste Prevention Programme and supports the move towards a more circular, low-waste economy.

Following strong interest from across the county, a number of local organisations have been selected to act as lending hubs during the six-month pilot. These include Aurora Community Hub, The Rower Community Hall, Graiguenamanagh Tidy Towns, 3rd Kilkenny Thomastown Scout Group, St Kieran’s Community Hall & Town Team, Ballyragget Development Association & Tidy Towns, Droichead Family Resource Centre, KACC Canoe Club, Freshford Community Café CLG and Kilquan Drama Group.

Each pack caters for up to 30 people and includes reusable plates, cups, bowls, cutlery and jugs, along with colourful bunting made from upcycled textiles by Community Reuse Network Ireland (CRNI). Designed for repeated use, the packs help cut waste, reduce costs and keep resources in circulation locally.

The idea is straightforward. You simply borrow, use, wash and return, a small change that makes a big environmental difference.

Mags Whelan, Environmental Awareness Officer with Kilkenny County Council, said: “Celebrations shouldn’t come at a cost to the environment. This initiative gives people a practical, low-cost way to reduce waste while still enjoying special occasions. It’s circular living in action which is simple, local and effective.”

The pilot will run for six months, after which participating groups will provide feedback to help shape potential expansion of the scheme.

Community groups not included in this phase will have opportunities to get involved in future rollouts or develop their own kits with guidance from the Council.

For updates on how to access the party packs, follow participating groups on social media or local community channels.

delusion. So far, so noir.

Inevitably, as in all good film noir, a femme fatale arrives. Bailey describes Rhonda Claire as ‘the kind of woman you'd thank for tearing your heart out just because she took the trouble to look at you.’ Though obviously disconcerted by her grimy surroundings and rattled by the unexpected stranger in her midst, Rhonda has little option but to make small-talk with the garrulous Bailey.

So begins a game of cat and mouse. Neither character is quite what they seem, so where does the truth lie? How much is bluff and artifice? Why are two strangers sitting in this dingy locale at this ungodly hour waiting impatiently for the last bus out of town?

It soon emerges that there's been a murder in town earlier that night.

A rich man has been ‘gunned down, robbed blind’. As Bailey observes, ‘somebody's on the run, with a whole bunch of money’. Could Bailey be the killer, or is it enigmatic Rhonda Claire?

Eamonn O'Connor plays the scheming and shifty Bailey Bryce while Clodagh Kenny smoulders as the seductive Rhonda Claire in this St. Michael's Theatre Drama Group production. To add to the tension, Bailey finally admits to having ‘a thing’ for the icy-veined Rhonda as the finale approaches.

Who will eventually board the 2a.m. bus to Thunder Bay or will there, as Bailey ruefully muses "be anyone left standing when it gets here?"

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Love earth, skip the flights and rockets I only take flights if it’s for an extended stay, e.g. a holiday.

I couldn’t justify jetting off somewhere for a weekend. I remember, years ago, being aghast when a woman told me she was off shopping to New York with friends for a weekend. Before the war in the Middle East people would jet off to Dubai for 2 or 3 days. I guess cheap flight have made these jaunts possible, but they remain anathema to me.

Maybe it’s because I’m old fashioned, it seems very wasteful and alien to my green way of thinking.

As oil prices skyrocket, air travel will soon become, as it was in the past, only for the wealthy, and such trips will once again become a luxury.

I watched the launch of Artemis 2 on April 1st with a mixture of awe and loathing! Awe because it is truly remarkable that 4 astronauts will travel further than any human being

has ever before. They go to the dark side of the moon.

(Pink Floyd!) They travel at outrageous speeds, burn masses of rocket fuel not to mention the incredible costs of such a venture.

I have listened to all the commentators and admit that it’s an incredible achievement in space technology. In future, there are plans to put a base on the moon which will be a stopover on the way to Mars.

6 months to get there and 6 months back. The goal is to find out if there is water on Mars and if it’s habitable!

So, what!? Personally, I don’t care. I really don’t care. What I do care about is here and now and our beautiful home, planet Earth. Earth is THE most beautiful of all the planets.

We have abundance of beauty…Nature is so breathtakingly beautiful. Ask David Attenborough! We have everything anyone of

us could ever dream of. We have plants and animals, rivers, fish, seas and oceans.

We have flowers that smell incredible and plants that we can eat full of nutrition.

We have incredible bodies that have 5 magical senses.

We have awe-inspiring landscapes. We can make music, dance, create works of art and literature.

Human beings are all works in progress… each of us is a mysterious, mystical, magical creation, full of talents, ideas, visions, stories and love. Not to mention consciousness.

Every astronaut, who has ever seen Earth from space, is dumbstruck by her beauty.

What beauty! Can we see it in each other? Sadly most cannot. Do we open our hearts to each other? Sadly not. Do we fight and kill, maim and hate one another?

We do! It’s a tragedy of our own making!

Why are we so blind? So greedy? There is plenty of everything to go round.

Earth has enough food for everyone. There are enough medicines for all. We live on an abundant planet. Why can’t we wake up to what

“Less flying, more living on beautiful earth together

we have? Our conditioning makes us believe in scarcity and to distrust one another.

Those in control have become so greedy. War apparently is good for the economy! Did you ever hear of anything so ridiculous?

Surely happiness is good for the economy! Happiness, housing, health, humour, good community spirit, sharing and caring. These things surely benefit the economy!?

Why spend gzillions of dollars shooting off in some big boy dream of a mighty rocket? It’s all so absurd and frankly idiotic when you look at the state of our planet right now.

There are wars initiated by short sighted lunatics who have no understanding of any type of human wisdom, empathy or compassion.

Someone once said, “We have guided missiles and mis-guided men!” Never truer than right now!

At times, I wonder how to react amid all the chaos.

I think of Schumaker who said, “Small is beautiful.”

Yes, small is beautiful… we must look after each other, walk in each other’s shoes, look each other in the eye and say, “How can I help you today?”

We all need each other in uncertain times… I need the farmer who grows my food, the hauliers who deliver the trucks, the factory worker who sews my clothes etc. No-one is truly independent. We’re all inter-dependent. We’re all in this boat together. We sink or swim together. So, let’s try to connect to each other with our hearts and minds.

Get to know our neighbours, and together we can make our patch a better place.

Let’s make the power of love, stronger than the love of power! www.judithashton.com

Pelo Hairdressing Ltd unveils advanced laser treatment for hair loss in Carlow Salon Pelo Hairdressing is set to transform the hair care scene in Ireland with the introduction of a state of the art laser hair restoration service launching to their Carlow Hairdressing Salon based in Shaws Carlow on February 19th, offering new hope for clients experiencing thinning hair or hair loss.

After Launching last September in their Newbridge and Dublin salons with huge success for clients, the service is now coming to Carlow launching in February within their full service Hair salon.

The innovative treatment uses low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to stimulate hair follicles, improve scalp circulation, and encourage natural, healthy regrowth. Safe, non-invasive, and pain-free, the procedure has been shown to strengthen existing hair, reduce shedding, and promote fuller, thicker results over time.

The Service combines a HD scalp camera for full analysis, photon therapy for targeted scalp stimulation, an oxygen

product service infusion scalp treatment and a laser hair regrowth machine with 260 laser beads that emit light at a wavelength proven to encourage hair follicle activity.

Salon owner and Certified Trichologist Denise Phillips shared, “Hair loss can be a deeply personal and emotional issue for many people. We wanted to offer a proven, science-backed solution that fits seamlessly into a salon environment, so clients can feel supported, comfortable, and confident as they work toward healthier hair.”

The laser treatment can be booked as part of a customised hair care plan. The salon’s trained specialists will provide a consultation to assess each client’s needs and create a tailored programme for the best possible results.

Pelo will be running introductory offers throughout the first month of launch as they celebrate their business anniversary, giving clients the perfect opportunity to experience this breakthrough technology.

For more details or to book a consultation, contact Pelo Hairdressing Ltd at 0871625572 or visit www.pelohairdressing.ie

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Health & Beauty

Skin needs change too

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SKINCARE

Stress shows up in the body more than we realise HEALTH We often think of stress as something that happens in the mind but very often, the body is the first to sound the alarm.

It can show up in all sorts of ways: headaches, poor sleep, tight shoulders, a racing heart, constant tiredness, an upset stomach or that nagging feeling that you can never properly relax.

Busy modern lifestyles make it easy to normalise

these symptoms. For instance, we often blame tiredness on a busy week, headaches on lack of sleep or an unsettled stomach on eating on the go. But when the body is carrying stress for too long, it has a way of letting us know.

Stress can leave muscles feeling tense and tight, particularly around the shoulders, jaw and back. It can interfere with sleep, making it harder to drift off or cause people to wake during the night so you

don’t feel properly rested in the morning. It can also affect digestion, appetite and concentration, leaving you feeling drained and out of sorts.

This is why it is so important to pay attention to your body’s signals. Feeling constantly run down is not something that should always be brushed aside as ‘just life.’ Sometimes it’s the body’s way of asking for a pause.

The good news is that there are steps you can take to help

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yourself. Gentle breathing exercises can calm the body when stress starts to build, and regular physical activity can help improve mood, support better sleep and regulate stress hormones.

If stress is beginning to show up in your body, it may be a sign to slow down, take stock and reach out for support. And where symptoms are ongoing, severe or worrying, it is always worth speaking to your GP to rule out any other underlying cause.

As the weather changes, skin often needs a small routine shift too. After colder months, many of us are still dealing with dryness, tightness or dullness, so keeping up a good moisturiser matters.

The HSE advises using emollients regularly to help stop skin from drying out and to protect the skin barrier.

At the same time, sunnier days mean it is worth thinking about SPF again, even in Ireland. HSE SunSmart advice says adults should use SPF 30+ with high UVA protection when the UV index is 3 or above, and not to rely on sunscreen alone.

Spring can also be a good time to simplify. If skin feels irritated or reactive, it may help to ease off strong active products for a while and focus on cleansing gently, moisturising well and protecting skin from the sun. If dryness or irritation persists, it is worth speaking to a pharmacist or GP.

Don’t forget your scalp HAIR

Recovery is part of fitness, too FITNESS When we think about fitness, we usually think about effort - the workout, the run, the gym session, the swim. But recovery matters too. In fact, without enough rest, it can be harder to stay active, avoid injury and actually feel the benefit of exercise.

That doesn’t mean doing nothing for days on end.

It means giving the body a chance to recover properly between sessions, especially if activity levels have increased. The HSE recommends regular physical activity for health, but good sleep also plays an important part in how well people feel and function. Adults are generally advised to aim for more than seven hours of sleep a night, although needs vary.

Recovery can be simple. A decent night’s sleep, a lighter day after harder exercise, enough food and fluids, and not trying to push through constant soreness all help.

Sport Ireland has highlighted recovery as a key part of

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managing training fatigue and stress, with rest and sleep central to that process.

It’s also worth remembering that more is not always better. The HSE advises people with back pain, for example,

to stay active but warns that too much rest can make pain worse — a useful reminder that recovery is about balance, not simply stopping altogether.

For most of us, fitness is

easier to maintain when it feels sustainable. A routine that includes rest, sleep and easier days is not a softer option. It is often the reason we can keep going in the first place.

When it comes to our hair, we generally focus on how it looks shine, frizz, split ends - but scalp health matters just as much. If the scalp is dry, itchy or clogged with product build-up, hair can feel less fresh and harder to manage.

A gentle routine usually helps. Dandruff and itchy scalp problems can often be improved with the right shampoo, including anti-dandruff shampoos when needed. But it’s always advisable to see a GP if symptoms persist or the scalp becomes very itchy, red or swollen.

It’s also worth avoiding overly harsh products or constant heavy styling if your scalp already feels irritated. HSE advice on irritated skin warns that dry, cracked or inflamed skin can be triggered by irritants such as soaps and frequent exposure to water.

In many cases, washing gently, rinsing properly and keeping product use sensible is enough to make the scalp feel more comfortable - and that often leaves our hair looking better too.

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News

Kilkenny County Council warns public about illegal waste collectors and links to dumping across the county Kilkenny County Council is urging the public to remain vigilant against illegal waste collectors operating across Kilkenny City and County, as part of ongoing efforts to tackle illegal dumping and protect the environment.

Unregulated operators offering “cheap” waste collection services are contributing significantly to illegal dumping in rural areas, back roads, laneways, and urban locations. Waste handed over to unauthorised collectors is frequently dumped illegally, resulting in serious environmental damage and costly clean-ups.

Check before you hand over your waste. Householders and businesses are reminded that all waste collectors must hold a valid waste collection permit. Before engaging any collector, the public is strongly advised to verify their credentials via the National Waste Collection Permit Office (NWCPO) www.nwcpo.ie .

Only authorised collectors listed on the NWCPO register are legally permitted to collect waste.

Illegal dumping caused by unpermitted operators has serious consequences such as• Damage to local environments, wildlife and waterways • Negative impacts on tourism and community wellbeing • Financial burden on taxpayers • Significant clean-up costs for Kilkenny County Council Every illegally dumped site must be

investigated, cleared and monitored, diverting valuable public resources away from essential services.

What are the Legal Obligations and Penalties?

Under the Waste Management Act 1996 (as amended) and the Litter Pollution Act 1997, it is an offence to• Collect waste without a valid permit • Transfer waste to an unauthorised collector • Dispose of waste in an illegal manner Penalties include: • On-the-spot fines of up to €500 • Court fines of up to €5,000 on summary conviction • Fines of up to €15 million and/ or imprisonment on conviction on indictment • Liability for clean-up and remediation costs • Potential seizure of vehicles used in waste offences Members of the public should be aware that they remain responsible for their waste. If your waste is found dumped illegally and traced back to you, you may face enforcement action.

Kilkenny County Council is encouraging the public to report any individuals or services they suspect of operating without a valid waste collection permit.

Edel Brett, Executive Engineer in the Environment Department of Kilkenny County Council stated, “Illegal waste

A Kilkenny studio helping women feel stronger – at every stage of life

A women-only movement studio in Kilkenny is helping women feel stronger, more confident, and better supported at different stages of life.

IRIE – The Joyful Movement Studio, based in Hebron Industrial Estate, opened its gates last September. The studio offers a more thoughtful and supportive approach to exercise, particularly for women who may feel that traditional fitness environments no longer meet their needs. The founders were a Kilkenny-based personal trainer couple, Gina and Viktor Dobos.

Gina Prónay-Zakar, who was named Kilkenny– Carlow’s Personal Trainer of the Year in 2025, has developed an approach that gently moves away from the more appearance-focused side of the fitness industry. Instead, her work focuses on helping women build strength and confidence in a way that feels realistic, supportive, and sustainable – without pressure, comparison, or unrealistic expectations.

“I’ve been working as a trainer for nearly 15 years, and I see how powerful it is when women have an hour away from everyday life – to move, reconnect, and feel part of a supportive community,” says Gina. “But many still feel nervous about going to the gym, even when they know movement would help, or feel that those spaces aren’t really designed for them.”

IRIE (pronounced ‘eye-ree’) was created as an alternative – a space where women can build strength in a way that feels supportive and tailored to their stage of life. The word “irie”, from Jamaican English, means ‘alright’, feeling good,

at ease, and content just as you are. That idea sits at the heart of the studio – a body-neutral space, free from diet culture messaging, where women of all ages and abilities feel genuinely welcome.

The studio offers a comprehensive range of classes, including ante & postnatal Pilates and strength, a 10-week menopause-focused programme, senior cardio and strength sessions, and dedicated Pilates fusion classes for teenage girls. These teen sessions provide a positive, nonjudgemental environment where movement is about building confidence and awareness, rather than competition.

A brand-new addition this April will see Viktor introduce DrumFIT classes for 60+ women – a fun, rhythm-based way to stay active, improve coordination, and enjoy movement in a social and uplifting setting.

At the core of IRIE’s approach is a focus on strength, stability, and long-term health, combining Pilates-based movement with strength training in a way that is both accessible and effective.

With a new 6-week term starting on April 13th, this is an ideal time for women to explore the classes or take that first step in a supportive and welcoming environment.

As Gina notes, “I believe that with the right support, women can feel stronger and more confident much sooner than they expect. Often, the hardest part is just starting – but sometimes all it takes is finding a place where you feel you belong.”

collectors are a key driver of dumping across Kilkenny. While their services may appear convenient, they are causing long-term damage to our environment and placing a financial burden on every taxpayer."

Mags Whelan, Environmental Education and Awareness Officer in Kilkenny County Council added, “We are asking the public to take a moment to check that their waste collector is authorised. A simple check on the NWCPO website can prevent illegal dumping and protect our communities.”

Kilkenny County Council continues to work proactively through enforcement, monitoring, and public awareness campaigns to address illegal dumping and unauthorised waste collection.

If in doubt, check it out. Protect your community and dispose of waste responsibly.

If you observe: • Individuals advertising low-cost or cash-only waste collection • Waste being transported in unmarked or suspicious vehicles • Dumping activity in rural or urban areas Please report it to the Environment Section: Phone: 056 779 4470 Email: environment@kilkennycoco. ie Website: Environmental Complaints - Kilkenny County Council All reports will be treated in confidence.

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Opinion

Paddy Molloy: The Soul of Wit

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Paddy Molloy might well have been Callan’s wisest and wittiest man of the 20th century.

He was born in Callan on a sunny day in 1898. At age 16, following intensive schooling at the CBS, during which the Christian Brothers taught him everything they knew, an adventurous Paddy joined the army in response to Lord Kitchener’s call to arms.

He said afterwards that he felt flattered when he saw the tough militaristic face of the British commander staring from that famous poster, his finger poised pleadingly, under a block lettered caption that read: The army Needs YOU! Paddy took this to mean him, in particular, and he enlisted to do his bit in the war to free Little Belgium from the claws of bad old Kaiser Bill. He fought bravely alongside his Callan friend, Soldier Walsh. Paddy was wounded in the Battle of the Somme in 1916, catching a Mauser bullet in the jaw.

Bloodied but unbowed, he recovered from his wound and went back to fighting the War to end all Wars. His wicked sense of humour infected all who knew him.

Even in the mud, blood, and squalor of the trenches, Paddy could provoke a laugh now and again.

On one terrible day during the seemingly endless round of attacks, counter-attacks, shelling, and machine gunning that made the Western Front such a hellish place, the Callan man was sitting in West Street Callan in Paddy Molloys day

a trench, chatting with some pals from his home town, when a Sergeant Major with pistol drawn signalled his intention to lead an assault on the enemy positions.

Paddy and his buddies were drinking rum-troops were allowed a ration to help insulate themselves from the horrors of war. The sight and sound of the strutting and jingoistic officer who seemed hell-bent on sacrificing many more men in a near suicidal attack on the German lines was too much for Paddy.

When the officer bellowed, in a mellifluous Eton accent: “Right Lads, it’s over the Top”, the Callan man took another swig of rum and shouted back: “You can f…say that again!”

Paddy thankfully survived the Great War-though he often remarked that it wasn’t so great to have been in the middle of it. He joined the Merchant Navy and spent three years sailing the oceans of the world. Upon returning to Callan, he ran a bakery in West Street before trying his hand at Monumental Sculpture.

He went into the undertaking business with his brother Michael-better known as Miko. Miko was the boss, but Paddy won the admiration of their growing clientele for his charm and magnetic personality.

They put up headstones all over the South East and became renowned for their high quality Celtic Crosses.

Paddy’s father had been trained by the O’ Shea sculptors, whose work had won medals at exhibitions in England and America.

Paddy Molloy was fond of the bottle-but in a sociable way that endeared him to drinkers in every pub he

Paddy as Carnival Bride of the Year in 1950

Paddy Molloy

visited. He became known far and wide as one of the most stylish drinkers of his day.

One evening, standing at the counter of the Big Wheel in Callan, he discovered that he had lost the few pence from his pocket to pay for a half glass of whiskey.

Two of his drinking buddies had just ordered a half glass each. The barman placed these on the counter and, as the men diverted their attention for a few seconds from their drinks, Paddy snatched the two glasses and downed the whiskey in two gulps. Though annoyed at this action, the men had to compliment Paddy on his breathtaking audacity and deftness of movement.

Being in a pub after-hours was hardly a mortal sin, but Paddy would sometimes go to great lengths to avoid apprehension by the boys in blue. One night, when Somers’ pub was raided, he managed to squeeze into a large wooden tea crate before the guards entered the premises.

But the Sergeant was determined to make a clean sweep of the pub. He opened the tea crate and there was

Paddy, hands over his head, taking cover from the enemy once again. The Callan policeman caught him gently by the scruff of the neck and asked him his name, as required by law. Paddy identified himself.

With a beaming smile that turned quickly to a smirk of triumph, the Sergeant posed the question, loud enough for everyone in the bar to hear: “And how did you happen to be in the box, Paddy?”

Paddy gave the Sergeant a tearful look and said “Oh God, thanks for opening that bloody box. I’ve come all the way from Ceylon in that f… tea chest and you are the first human being I’ve set eyes on

in a fortnight, God bless your heart.”

Before the guards could respond to his audacity, he added, while still sitting in the box: “Listen, Sergeant, can I buy you a pint?”

At a pub in Cuffesgrange, Paddy met a man he believed had died a month earlier.

“Japers”, he exclaimed, eyeing the man up and down, “I thought you were too feckin’ mean to give me the job of burying you!”

Not every one, though, appreciated his sense of humour. He carried a measuring tape around with him and would produce it in a pub if he noticed a drinker who appeared to be a bit under the weather, unhealthy; or coughing heavily.

“Stand up there till I measure you for the auld box”, he might say, or other less than reassuring words.

Such remarks made some people nervous, but nobody panicked or suffered a heart attack as a result of his banter and pub philosophy. Neither was he begrudged a drop of whiskey or brandy before he went to coffin a corpse. As in the war, he needed a shot of something strong to soften the impact of the experience.

Not that he feared being in the presence of the dead. He knew their souls had flown to a happier place and he saw himself as “God’s humble servant” whose task it was to clean up after a soul’s departure to the afterlife.

Though a religious man, Paddy always opted for a common sense solution to any challenge that came his way. When an exceptionally wealthy lady asked that £10,000 in cash be used to

line the sides of her coffin, he felt that he had to respect her wishes but at the same time realised that there was little point in wasting good money.

He stood in the room containing the open coffin, along with fellow workers and relatives of the deceased. Then, after all the prayers had been said, he announced it was time to close the coffin. He asked everyone to leave the room so that he could offer one silent prayer of his own before he put the lid on.

Having performed his Catholic duty, Paddy removed the hundred pound notes from the coffin, wrote out a cheque for £10,000, and laid it beside the body.

He was conscious of the old adage that not a single coin or bank note can be taken across the River of Life.

But the lady could cash her cheque “on the other side”no problem-as the streets of Heaven were laid with gold.

So everybody was happy.

It was a sad day in Callan on April 10th, 1979, when Paddy Molloy took his leave of this world. But his friends gave him a worthy send-off and Johnny Barden, who knew him well, made some wise observations of his own at the wake.

Johnny noticed the number of total strangers-many of them business people intent on making an appearancein mourning around the corpse. He whispered to Sean Holden “Do you know what I’m going to tell you, if yer man woke up right now, yourself and myself are the only ones in this room he’d recognize.”

Paddy would have appreciated the joke.

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Homes & Gardens

Vacant homes grant help HOME Ibrahim Guetar on Unsplash

Anyone thinking about applying for the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant can get advice at two information events in Kilkenny this month.

The Town Regeneration Team from Kilkenny County Council will be on hand to answer questions on eligibility, the application process, common pitfalls and the main do’s and don’ts involved.

The workshops will take place at Cillín Hill Livestock Mart, Dublin Road, on Thursday, April 16 and Thursday, April 23, from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

It could be useful for anyone considering bringing a vacant property back into use and wanting a clearer idea of how the grant works before applying.

For more information, contact: vacanthomes@kilkennycoco.ie or phone: 056 779 4410.

Three no-fuss plants GARDEN HACK Freepik

Why a quieter home is becoming a luxury

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HOME Home improvement projects have traditionally focused on making our homes look, well ... improved. New colours, better furniture, bigger kitchens and nicer flooring were the main goals. But now, more of us want something else from our homes: a bit of peace and quiet.

Modern life is noisy, and many houses are as well.

Open-plan layouts are great

want to create.

The good news is that you do not always need major work.

Rugs can soften hard floors.

Curtains, cushions and fabric furniture help absorb sound.

Bookshelves, wall hangings and even a well-placed chair can make a room feel less harsh or echoey. Sometimes, it is just about giving different activities their own space instead of having everything happen in one area.

Doors that close properly are important too. It also helps

to have a space that is not part of the main family area, even if it is just a chair in a bedroom or a quiet corner of the kitchen.

We still want our homes to look good, of course. But comfort now means more than just nice finishes. It also means being able to think, chat, read or sit with a cup of tea without too much noise in the background. In that way, quiet has become one of the most valuable things a home can offer.

Making a garden feel private GARDEN

Some plants ask for very little and still give plenty back. For anyone who wants a nicer garden without too much maintenance, these three are a good place to start.

Lavender is hard to beat. It smells lovely, brings in bees and looks good for months. Give it a sunny spot and do not overwater it.

Heuchera is another reliable choice. It is grown more for its leaves than its flowers, and the foliage comes in lovely shades from lime green to deep purple. It works well in pots or borders and gives colour even when little else is happening.

Salvia is worth trying too. It flowers well, suits Irish gardens and keeps going if you trim it back lightly after the first flush.

The trick is not to buy too much at once. A few dependable plants will usually do better than a trolley full of things chosen in a rush.

for light and space, but they also let sound travel. A TV in one corner, someone on a work call at the table, a washing machine running, a child on a tablet, doors banging and hard floors echoing underfoot all add up.

It is something you often don’t notice right away. You just sense that the house feels a bit busy, even when not much is happening. That is why a quieter home is starting to feel less like a luxury and more like something we really

A garden doesn’t need to be big to feel like a retreat. Some of the most beautiful outdoor spaces are actually quite small, but they’re arranged to create a sense of shelter and privacy.

This is especially important in housing estates and builtup areas, where gardens can feel exposed. You don’t always need to block everything out.

Often, it’s about placing things thoughtfully.

Start with seating. A bench or small table feels more private when it’s set to one side and backed by a wall, a fence or plants, rather than sitting in the middle of an open area.

Even turning your seat to face plants instead of nearby houses can help.

Plants help with this, too.

Tall grasses, climbing plants, small trees in pots and layered borders can soften the edges of your garden without making it feel closed in. Trellises, screens and arches also add separation without blocking the light.

It’s often better to create one good spot to sit, instead of try-

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ing to use every bit of space. A small, sheltered, sunny corner will get used much more than a larger area that feels open

and exposed.

Privacy in a garden is often about the atmosphere, not just the size. A bit of shelter, some

softness and a comfortable place to sit can turn even a small garden into a relaxing escape.

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Food & Drink

Creamy Mushroom and Leek Pasta

Lady Helen eyes national stage

RECIPE stockking

to the commitment of everyone involved.”

John Kelly: “Team is massive for me and how we come together as a unit.”

Q: Looking ahead to the national final, what does it mean to represent Kilkenny on the national stage?

John Kelly: “We always look forward to any awards and never take them for granted, as the standard in Ireland is on the rise every year. To be a representative from Kilkenny is a huge honour, as I’m sure it is for all the other venues up for awards from Kilkenny.”

Mark Dunne: “It is a real honour to represent Kilkenny. The county has a fantastic reputation for food and hospitality, so to be part of that on a national stage means a lot to us.”

This is the kind of simple midweek dinner that feels a bit special without requiring too much effort. Sweet leeks, earthy mushrooms and a light creamy sauce come together in a dish that is comforting, full of flavour and easy to make after a long day.

Serve it as it is, or with a crisp green salad on the side.

Serves 4 Ingredients • 300g pasta • 1 tbsp butter • 1 tbsp olive oil • 2 leeks, trimmed and finely sliced • 250g mushrooms, sliced • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 150ml cream • 50g grated Parmesan, plus extra to serve • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • Salt and black pepper • A small handful of chopped parsley Method Bring a large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta according to the packet instructions. Before draining, keep back a cup of the cooking water.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the butter and olive oil in a large frying pan over a medium heat. Add the leeks and cook gently for five to six minutes until softened. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another five minutes until they are golden and any liquid has cooked away.

FOOD HEROES Lady Helen Restaurant at Mount Juliet Estate was named Best Hotel & Guesthouse Restaurant, while head chef John Kelly won Best Chef in County Kilkenny at the Irish Restaurant Awards 2026. We asked John Kelly and general manager Mark Dunne what the awards mean to them, what sets The Lady Helen apart, and what comes next.

Q: Congratulations on the awards. What did this recognition mean to you personally and to the wider team?

Mark Dunne: “It was a great moment for the team to hear The Lady Helen Restaurant announced as the county winner. Awards like this mean a lot because they recognise the hard work that goes on across the whole team every day.

Everyone takes great pride in what they do, so it was fantastic to see that effort acknowledged at the Irish Restaurant Awards.”

John Kelly: “It’s not just for me, it’s for the whole team, which is the most important reflection of any award and its importance.”

Q: What do you see as the key ingredients in delivering a great restaurant experience?

John Kelly: “People are everything to hospitality, and tied in with that is their personality which in turn creates a wonderful guest experience. My motto is ‘Keep it simple’ - if you do all the small things simple and well, it turns into one amazing thing.”

Mark Dunne: “For anyone who might not know us yet, The Lady Helen Restaurant offers a special dining experi-

ence here in Kilkenny. Being located on the Mount Juliet Estate gives us a beautiful setting, but what really makes the difference is the focus on quality and the overall guest experience. Our kitchen team works closely with seasonal Irish ingredients, and our front-of-house team puts a lot of care into making sure every guest feels welcome and looked after.”

Q: What does this success say about the work happening behind the scenes every day?

Mark Dunne: “I think the award reflects the work that happens behind the scenes day in and day out. A lot of time and effort goes into developing menus, sourcing great produce and making sure every service runs smoothly. It’s very much a team effort, and this recognition is really down

Add the garlic and cook for one minute more. Stir in the cream, Parmesan and mustard, mixing well to form a smooth sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.

Last chance to apply for Food Academy

Add the drained pasta to the pan and toss everything together. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until it loosens to the right consistency.

BUSINESS

Scatter over the chopped parsley and serve with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

This is a handy base recipe to adapt. A few handfuls of spinach can be stirred in at the end, or you could add cooked bacon or shredded roast chicken if you want something heartier. For a little extra freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice before serving works very well.

It is warm, filling and full of flavour, while still feeling light enough for spring. Best of all, it comes together in well under half an hour, which makes it the sort of recipe worth keeping close to hand.

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Kilkenny’s next food success story could be just one application away - but time is running out.

Budding food and drink producers are being reminded that the deadline for this year’s Food Academy Programme is midnight tonight (April 10), making this a final call for anyone hoping to take their product to the next level.

Run by the Local Enterprise Offices with SuperValu, Food Academy is aimed at small food and drink businesses that already have a product developed, have tested it in the market, and are now ready to grow.

The programme is there to help producers build their business and better understand what is involved in supplying retail. It includes workshops, mentoring and the chance to pitch to the

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SuperValu team. Training covers practical areas such as food safety, branding, marketing, finance, sustainability, market research and business development.

Each participant also gets one-to-one mentoring from an experienced food and drink consultant, offering advice and support along the

way.

One of the biggest attractions of the programme is the chance for successful participants to trial their product in local SuperValu stores for 12 weeks. That gives producers a valuable opportunity to see how their product performs, hear feedback from customers and staff, and make im-

provements where needed.

Since Food Academy began in 2013, it has become an important route for small Irish producers, with more than 300 Food Academy businesses now stocked in SuperValu stores.

For Kilkenny businesses with ambitions to take the next step, time is running out.

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GOT AN EVENT, SHOW OR FESTIVAL TO HIGHLIGHT? LET US KNOW CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

What’s On

Your picks for this week

PIL Therapy?

TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK What to Watch: The Drama sees Zendaya and Robert Pattinson play an engaged couple whose wedding plans unravel after a startling confession. Directed by Kristoffer Borgli, this A24 release blends romance, discomfort and dark humour into something knowingly offkilter. Early reviews praise the leads, even if the film’s provocative edge has divided critics.

Stylish, unsettling and talky, it looks set to spark plenty of debate among cinemagoers this week. Catch it at IMC Cinema.

Summer sounds at Castle Mills CASTLE MILLS | KILKENNY CASTLE | JUL 17 & 18 The first two gigs announced at €59.50 plus fees.

MUSIC Kilkenny’s newest live music space is starting to take shape, with Live at Castle Mills promising two big summer nights in a new tented venue beside the grounds of Kilkenny Castle. The series is being staged in riverside parkland at Castle Mills, within walking distance of the city centre, with organisers pitching it as a more intimate concert experience under canvas.

have already given a strong sense of what audiences can expect. On Friday, July 17, Public Image Ltd will headline a bill that also includes Therapy? and Kilkenny favourites Kerbdog. It is a line-up that brings together postpunk, alternative rock and a welcome local presence, and should make for a lively opening night at the new venue.

Tickets for that show went on general sale on April 1, priced

The following evening, Saturday, July 18, sees Matt Berninger of The National top the bill, joined by acclaimed Irish singer Lisa O’Neill and Kilkenny band Engine Alley.

That concert gives the series a different feel, with a line-up leaning more towards indie and alternative songwriting, while still keeping a strong local connection. General admission tickets for that date are listed at €64.50 plus fees,

Kerbdog

with a VIP soundcheck addon also advertised.

There is no parking on site, and concertgoers are being encouraged to walk or use public transport where possible.

For Kilkenny music fans, it is an encouraging start. With two strong bills already confirmed and a scenic new setting by the river, Castle Mills looks set to become an interesting addition to the city’s summer music calendar.

More info: castlemills.ie

Award-winning trio in concert THOMASTOWN CONCERT HALL | APRIL 12 | 4:00PM-6:00PM MUSIC Award-winning Czech chamber group Trio Bohémo will perform at Thomastown Concert Hall on Sunday, April 12, in what looks set to be a special afternoon for local classical music fans.

Presented by Music Network, the concert gives audiences here the chance to hear the Czech trio on their first tour of Ireland.

The programme has a bit of everything, mixing familiar names with newer work. It opens with Judith Weir’s O Viridissima and also includes Beethoven’s Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor, Amanda Feery’s Gone to Earth, Schubert’s Notturno in E flat major and Ravel’s Piano Trio in A minor.

Altogether, it promises an

evening of rich, expressive music, moving from quiet and reflective to lively and dramatic.

Trio Bohémo was founded in 2019 and is made up of Jan Vojtek on piano, Matouš Pěruška on violin and Kristina Vocetková on cello. In a short number of years, the group has built up a strong reputation, winning praise for performances that combine skill, warmth and real energy. Their debut album on the Supraphon label was named Debut Album of the Year at the Presto Music Awards 2024,

and also received a five-star review from BBC Music Magazine.

For anyone who enjoys live music in an intimate setting, this is a good chance to hear a highly regarded young ensemble with a programme that

brings together both wellknown and contemporary works.

What to Read: In How to Talk to AI, journalist Jamie Bartlett offers a timely, accessible guide to the technology reshaping daily life. Exploring AI as a productivity tool, life coach and potential threat, he sets out its promises and abuses in clear, practical terms. The book helps ordinary readers understand what AI can do, where it may mislead and why its growing impact matters to everyone around us now and in the future.

What to Stream: Outcome on Apple TV+ is a dark comedy about a troubled movie star whose life begins to unravel when a mysterious video threatens his reputation.

Keanu Reeves leads the cast, with Cameron Diaz and Matt Bomer alongside him. With Hollywood chaos, awkward humour and personal fallout at its centre, it looks like an easy weekend watch for viewers after something glossy, strange and a little offbeat this week on screen.

What to Listen To: ESSIRAY’s new single Make It Happen is a confident burst of electronicpop, pairing jungle-tinged rhythms, acoustic bass and layered harmonies with lyrics about backing yourself and pushing forward. The Irish artist, a former opera singer, continues to build momentum with a track that feels polished but emotionally direct.

Catchy, upbeat and full of purpose, it is the kind of release that leaves a clear impression after one listen this week.

What to Play: People of Note is a musical turn-based RPG following aspiring pop star Cadence as she builds a band and battles her way towards success. Each fight plays out like a performance, mixing strategy with rhythm and plenty of style. Bright, unusual and full of personality, it offers something different from the usual fantasy adventure. It is available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch 2.

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Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Ivan and Lorna Dowley, shall lodge Significant Further Information to Planning Application 2660046 for permission for the erection of a dwelling house, domestic garage/store, installation of a treatment system and percolation area and all associated site works.

The Significant Further Information includes the applicants’ (Ivan and Lorna Dowley) daughter, Rachel Dowley replacing her parents as the applicant (sole) at Garrynarea, Piltown, Co.Kilkenny.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny during its public opening hours 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission of observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making the decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Byrne & McCabe Design Ltd, (059 9725684)

I, John Trant intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing self-contained dwelling house from previous living area and two bedrooms and all associated site development works at 4A Castlecomer Road, 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 Planning permission is sought by Cathal Dempsey to construct a new single story dwelling house and a new entrance driveway, provision of a new sewage treatment plant, borewell & percolation area and all associated site developments works at Hugginstown Lower, 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 Planning permission is sought for a tea / coffee dock located to the mid-section of the north wall in the garden of Butler House to include all ancillary and associated services at Butler House (a Protected Structure - RPS ref:B148), Patrick Street Lower, Kilkenny and is located in Patrick Street Architectural Conservation Area.

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

Applicant: Kilkenny Civic Trust

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ormonde Homes (Breagagh) Ltd. intend to apply for Retention Planning Permission for a revised site boundary to include a 2.4m high blockwork wall to the rear of units 41-54 An Cluain, Castle Oaks, Poulgour and Wetland, Kilkenny City, 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: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd.

056 777 1463

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA MINOR HURLING Clara began their 2026 minor campaign with an away fixture to neighbours Bennettsbridge.

Although beaten comprehensively on the night the Clara boys showed enough to suggest that several of these lads will don the maroon and white at senior level in the future. They were short the Meany brothers Padraic and Micheál who are on the county minor panel and when these two return to the fold they will be a stronger team. Padraic Meany is actually the only player up to the age on this panel and there are only 4 under seventeens also.

The majority of them are still U16 and younger so the season will be all about development for this group.

Bennettsbridge were older and bigger all over the field and wasted no time in putting Clara to the sword here. The result was pretty much wrapped up at half time after which the Bridge led 4-9 to 0-3.

The Clara scores had come from Robert Coogan, Aaron Carrigan from a free and Rory Treacy.

The second half was a far more competitive affair which Bennettsbridge won 0-10 to 0-9. Clara really got stuck in and played some terrific hurling. Lads like Aaron Carrigan (4 points, 3 from play), Dara Leamy (0-3), Rory Treacy and Sam Corr kept the scoreboard ticking and Clara were unlucky not to find the net on a couple of occasions also. Aidan O Connell and substitute Raphael Scanlon were other forwards to show up well in that second half. At the back Ciaran Gibbons couldn’t be faulted for any of the goals conceded. Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy and Ollie Butler defended manfully while Matthew Cooke and Sam Lawlor were very effective on the flanks outside Sam Corr. Jack Byrne and Ruairi Bowden Mullen hurled a lot of ball around the middle against formidable opponents and James McDonald had his moments at corner forward.

There was enough evidence here to suggest that this team can have a good future as they continue to mature and develop. They played a nice brand of hurling, and it has to be remembered that they were giving years to the opposition in a lot of positions. As long as they keep improving the results will follow.

Team - Ciarán Gibbons, Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy, Ollie Butler. Matthew Cooke, Sam Corr 0-1, Sam Lawlor. Jack Byrne, Ruairi Bowden Mullen.

Dara Leamy 0-3, 0-2f, 0-1 x 65, Aidan O Connell, Robert Coogan 0-1. Aaron Carrigan 0-5, 0-2f, Rory Treacy 0-2, James McDonald. Sub used Raphael Scanlon.

U16 HURLING Just two nights after the Clara minors put in such a big effort 12 of the team started again away to Barrow Rangers in Paulstown. This time it was in the U16 grade, and the Clara lads came away with a very gutsy, hard earned win.

They started with the aid of a strong wind on a cold blustery night and built up a 1-10 to 0-2 lead by the time halftime arrived. The goal had come courtesy of Aaron Carrigan who also added two points from play. Dara Leamy had hit three points in a row midway through the half and Jake Brett (2), Rory Treacy, Sam Corr and Jack Byrne had all found the mark. Impressively all of the Clara scores had come from play.

Clara lost the influential Dara Leamy to injury at halftime and were now facing a very strong wind.

However they defended resolutely and midway through the half the Rangers had only scored three points, two of those from frees. Clara had also added two to their tally through Aaron Carrigan (a free) and Jack Byrne. The lead remained a comfortable 10 points. But then the home side hit two frees in a row followed by a goal and the deficit was down to five. Aaron Carrigan steadied the ship with a free but shortly afterwards he was red carded for a wayward pull. Clara were really under the cosh now but Ciaran Gibbons came up with a magnificent save to deny Barrow Rangers. The Rangers also started lobbing in balls when points were there for the taking. They did score a very late goal to cut it to a single score game but strong defensive play by Clara kept them at bay.

These Clara lads displayed huge grit and determination to achieve this result. This augurs really well for their hurling future. Despite being well beaten at minor level two nights earlier, instead of breaking them it steeled them for an even greater effort here.

Gearóid Meany, Jake Brett and Ger Cody were the

three younger lads on this team and all three hurled really well. Aidan Butler also impressed when introduced. Now they have two wins from two. 1-13 to 2-7 was how it finished.

Team - Ciaran Gibbons, Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy, Oliver Butler. Matthew Cooke, Sam Corr 0-1, Gearóid Meany. Rory Treacy 0-1, Jack Byrne 0-2.

Jake Brett 0-1, Dara Leamy 0-3, Robert Coogan. Ger Cody, Aaron Carrigan 1-4, 0-2f, James McDonald.

Sub used Aidan Butler.

COUNTY SCENE Well done to Luke Lawlor who really impressed at centre back for the Kilkenny U19 team that had a big win over Laois in Nowlan Park on Friday evening. Joe Power is also with this squad but is absent through injury at the moment. Well, done also to Davy Barcoe who also manned the centre back position for the Kilkenny U20s the following day as they travelled to Newbridge to defeat a stubborn Kildare 1-16 to 0-10. Davy picked up the Clubber Man of the Match award in this one.

COUNTY CAMOGIE Hard luck to the Clara contingent that were involved in the Kilkenny U23 camogie side that was beaten by Galway in Dunmore on Sunday. Rachel Whelan, Keara Ryan and Lucy Boyd all started while Laoise Nolan, Katie Ryan and Grace Barcoe (injured) are part of the panel.

CLUB LOTTO The lotto draw on 31st March produced the following results, the numbers drawn were 8, 12, 23. There was no jackpot winner. The €30 Lucky Dip Winners were Noel Hoyne, Oliver Langton, Yvonne Kenny,

Emma O Keeffe and Ann O Shea.

SIOPA The shop will be open from next week during juvenile training, for Parents, Grandparents etc to be able to have a cuppa and a chat.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS EASTER CAMP O’Loughlin Gaels Easter Camp concluded on Friday last. Once again, the Camp proved a huge success.

All of the participants really enjoyed the variety of the range of activities and the fun with their friends.

Well, done to organisers Stephen Murphy and Paddy Deegan and all of the coaches and helpers who did an excellent job throughout the week. Not forgetting Damien O’ Connell who has been a constant at every Camp since the first one 18 years ago looking after traffic and parking and making sure every participant arrives and departs safely each day. Well, done also to all the boys and girls who attended the Camp and are now looking forward to the Summer one. Watch out for details.

TABLE QUIZ Thanks to all who took part in the Pedal to the Sea Table Quiz fundraiser, on Thursday April 9th in McSorleys Pub on John Street. There was huge interest, with over thirty teams taking part on the night. Proceeds from the quiz and the cycle will help to raise funds for new dressing rooms and the continued development at St. Johns Park. A raffle was also held, with a variety of prizes awarded on the night.

COUNTY REPRESENTATIVES Well done to the Kilkenny Under 20 team and Manager Henry Shefflin on victory in their first Leinster Championship game over Kildare in Manguard Park, Newbridge last Saturday. There was O’Loughlin Gaels involvement in both the team and the back room with Greg Kelly lining out and playing his part in the win, Ruarc Sweeney and Cian Kelly also in the squad, Brian Hogan acting as a selector, while Fergal Brennan and Stephen Murphy are part of the backroom team.

Also representing their county at the weekend on the Kilkenny Celtic Challenge team against Cork were O’Loughlin Gaels players Kyril Mtinsi, Harry Egan, Conor Minogue and Andrew Holohan.

Finally the Club had two representatives on the Kilkenny team which won the Leinster Under 19 Tournament semi-final against Laois in UPMC Nowlan Park with Daniel Mc Cormack in goal and Conor Holohan at full forward.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated March 31st. The numbers drawn were 2, 4, 6 and 26 and the bonus number was 12. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com. Thank you for your continued support.

Winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Johnny Phelan. 2. Ann Massey c/o E Kimchella. 3. Barry Hogan c/o H Mahon. 4. Breda Carter c/o E Kinchella.

5. Veronica Power c/o B Maher. 6. Lorraine Scanlon c/o B Maher. 7. Jim Nugent c/o Dinny/John Joe. 8.

Marina Tyrrell c/o Online. 9. Ben Fogarty c/o Online.

10. Laura Maher c/o Online

Grass stains, great plays, and pure enjoyment.

Happy Group at O’Loughlin Gaels Easter Camps.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

Community & GAA Notes cemetery afterwards.

She is mourned by her sons Fr. Gerald, Jack, Michael, James and Pat, her daughters Mary, Carmel, Catherine and Teresa. Her grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended DARTS The annual Charlie Colclough Memorial Darts Tournament, which had been postponed, will now take place on Saturday next. Registration begins at 4pm, with games starting promptly at 5pm. The event will feature both ladies’ and gents’ tournaments, offering a great afternoon and evening of competition for all participants. An entry fee of €10 applies to each player. There will also be a raffle held on the day, giving attendees the chance to win a variety of prizes. All are welcome to come along, take part, and enjoy the occasion while supporting this memorial event in honour of Charlie Colclough.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the Henderson family of Gathabawn on the unexpected death of Andy Henderson late of Rathlogan, Johnstown. Funeral Mass took place in Gathabawn Church on Sunday afternoon followed by burial in St. Kieran’s cemetery Johnstown.

EASTER COMMEMORATION The annual Easter Commemoration Ceremony took place on the Green on Easter Sunday, drawing a strong attendance from the local community. The event was a respectful and a meaningful occasion, honouring those who played a role in Ireland’s history. Among those present were Billy Kelleher MEP, Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere, Andrew McGuinness, Cllr Mick McCarthy, and Michael Delaney, all of whom joined in marking the significance of the day.

Proceedings were led by MC John Meagher, who guided the ceremony with dignity. A number of readings were delivered, reflecting on the importance of the Easter Rising, while the Proclamation was also read, reminding those gathered of its enduring message. Musical contributions added greatly to the atmosphere, with Gillian Queally performing “The Dying Rebel” and “Grace,” accompanied by Gary Barnaville and Mary Kelly. Members of Comhaltas and the Flying Column group were also in attendance, further enhancing the occasion.

A key moment of the ceremony was the raising of the flag, which was carried out by Teddy Ryan in a solemn and respectful manner. In his closing remarks, Cllr McCarthy thanked everyone who attended and contributed, acknowledging the effort made to ensure the success of this special commemoration.

GAA St Lachtains junior footballers bowed outbid this year’s championship at the quarter finals stage when they went down to Danesfort on score of 4-8 to 1-8.

The u 15s went out of Feile Na Gael Div 1 when they were beaten by the eventual winner John Lockes of Callan after extra time on a scoreline of 4-9 to 3-6.

The winners now go on to represent Kilkenny.

Adult hurling returns on Saturday evening next when the Junior B side take on Bennettsbridge in Pairc Lachtain at 6.30pm in the league The junior F hurlers play their first league game on Sunday when they take on Tullaroan in Tullaroan at 3pm LOTTO The club’s new weekly lotto started last week with a draw taking place each Monday night. The jackpot started at €1,000. There was no jackpot winner and the lucky dip winners were John Fitzpatrick (€50) Celina Grant and Martin Caulfield (€25 each) next week’s jackpot is €1,100. Tickets are €2 and can be bought through the Clubzap or from any committee member or in the local shops or pubs.

Building skills, confidence, and big smiles.

Where friendships grow and traditions thrive.

New friends, great games, and memories that last.

NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes, please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD KATHLEEN DOYLE (RIP) Freshford lost one of its more popular senior

citizens last week with the passing of Mrs Kathleen Doyle late of Woodview, Freshford. In her 93rd year she was originally from County Leitrim. She was predeceased by her husband Jim more than 40 years ago and was left to rear a young family of nine children which she did so well. She was a very good living lady and good neighbour and friend to all.

She was a member of the ICA over the years and a member of the parish choir. She loved to sing and

loved music and the craic and performed on stage at various events and was famous for her duet with her friend the late Sally Kelly. She attended the active retirement group each Wednesday afternoon up to recently and went on all their outings and trips. Funeral mass took place in St Lachtain’s Church Freshford which was concelebrated with her son Fr. Gerald of the Mill Hill Missionary order the main celebrant. Burial took place in Muckalee

SPLIT THE POT This month’s split the pot proceeds goes to St Lachtains Bord Na nOg and the winner was Liam Cullen who got €93. Tickets are €2 and available in local pubs and businesses. Please support all your local clubs SOCCER Freshford town had a quiet weekend. The junior side are finished the league and are still in the cup competition In the underage section the u12 boys had a 1-0win over Callan with Shay Geraghty getting the winner.

The U11side were defeated 5-1by Evergreen in the last 16 of the cup.

PENALTY KINGS OF KILKENNY A special and exciting day is planned for May 31st at the Sportsfield in Woodview, promising fun, competition, and celebration for all ages. The highlight of

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Community & GAA Notes the day will be a thrilling team event, where participants are invited to put their skills to the test. If you think you and your friends have what it takes, come along and prove it. Teams of five can enter at a cost of €100, with the chance to compete for a fantastic top prize of €1,000, as well as the prestigious Gerry O’Reilly Cup. The event will also mark the grand opening of the brand new Astra Turf pitch, a major addition to the facilities and a significant milestone for the community. Proceedings will kick off at 12pm, and there will be plenty to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.

Alongside the competition, there will be a lively atmosphere with a BBQ, music, games, and lots of fun activities for all to enjoy. It promises to be a family-friendly occasion, bringing together players, supporters, and the wider community.

Special guests are expected to attend, adding to the excitement of the day, and there will also be a range of special prizes up for grabs. It’s an event not to be missed, so be sure to come along and be part of a memorable day in Woodview.

CAKE SALE Freshford Foroige group held a very successful bake sale at the Loop Cafe on Saturday morning. Thanks goes to all those who donated or supported the event.

GUIDED WALK IN KILKENNY Threecastles Heritage Group invites you to a Guided Walk in Kilkenny with John Comerford Tour Guide.

Meet at Mayfair Library on Sunday 12th.April at 2.30pm. The cost of the walk is €10. The duration of the walk is 1h.15 mins.

WEBCAM The mass webcam has been installed by Church Media Ireland. All masses in at Lachtain’s church will be livestreamed through the webcam at Https// church media.ie/st-lachtains-church-frffreshford.

PILGRIMAGE The Ossory pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place 25th to 30th May. 5 nights from €995 per person. All bookings through Joe Walsh tours on 01 2410800 or online at pilgrimage/group-diocesan-pilgrimages or by post to JWT Harcourt Street Dublin 2.

Assisted pilgrims should contact Fr O’Connor on 0872517766.

OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms. The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941 BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are also being held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge and you are most welcome to attend these classes.

For further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 if you are interested in joining.

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

NEWSLETTER The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla.

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

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

MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing

with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB BILLY WALTON TOURNAMENT The 5th running of the annual Billy Walton Memorial tournament took place in a windy Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain on Saturday morning last. A top class forward, Billy was the leading scorer with 0-10 points to his credit in the clubs 1982 All-Ireland Club championship winning team against Mount Sion (Waterford) in Semple Stadium. With players eager to get some serious practice before the upcoming 2026 Kilkenny league campaigns, over sixty hurlers from the ranks of the club’s Intermediate, Junior, U-21 panels plus some seasoned players turned up for a competitive “in house” nine aside tournament. Each of the four competing teams played four highly competitive games before the Larchfield and Waterford Road teams emerged to contest the final of the tournament. In the final, the Larchfield lineup took command from the throw-in and eventually ran out convincing 5-12 to 1-07 victors giving team captain Tuan Hyland the honour of receiving the Billy Walton Memorial trophy.

Andrew Brennan received the Young Player of the Tournament accolade and Diarmuid Behan was nominated as the Player of the Tournament. At the presentation, Billy’s widow Nuala Walton thanked the players for their commitment to the competition, the tournament organisers Tony Scanlon and Peter Butler, the referees and the grounds officer Kevin Hennessy for facilitating the running of the hugely successful tournament.

PADDY GRACE TOURNAMENT On Saturday morning In Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain the 2026 Feile ambitions of the club’s U-15 hurlers came unstuck following a draw with St. Martins at 1-07 each and a five point loss to Mooncoin 0-09 to 0-04 in stormy conditions. Playing with a strong wind advantage in the first half of both games the young Village hurlers failed to build a comfortable lead at the break which required them to defend stoutly throughout the 2nd half in each game but unfortunately, in vain, against determined opponents.

St. Martins went on to claim the Paddy Grace group 3 final with a 1-05 to 1-04 victory in a highly entertaining contest. Despite their disappointment the young Village players can now look forward with confidence to the upcoming league programme after their defiant display in both fixtures.

DOGGIE NIGHT A timely reminder to members that the fundraiser, “We’re Going To The Dogs” takes place on Friday night 17th. April in the Kilkenny Greyhound track starting at 7.30pm. Tickets for the fun filled family evening cost €10 per adult, with accompanied children Free. During the evening, the admission tickets will be entered in a bonus draw. The Village connection to the event will include the final of the Georgie Leahy Memorial Race in memory of the late Sean “Georgie” Leahy, a lifetime fan of greyhound racing as well as his expertise in training county championship winning teams. Your support for the club Development Programme fundraiser would be very much appreciated.

CAMINO COACHING A talk headlined “ Preparing for your Camino Journey” will be held in Loughboy library on Friday 17th April from 6.15 to 7.15pm. The meeting is the perfect opportunity for anyone considering the Camino Walk, especially older adults who want some practical guidance on the challenging journey. Attendees will get a clear understanding of how to get started, how to pace yourself, and how to make the most of the experience. As places are limited, phone the library at 056 7794176 or email loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie to book a place.

LOTTO (CRANNCHUR) Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite na 8, 21, 25, 30. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir (No winner). Na mion duaisneanna €40: Tom McCormack, Mary Kelly, Mary Flynn, Maria Neary, Michelle Costigan. Mar is gnath go raibh maith agaibh go leir as bhur dtachaiocht. (as always, thank you for your continued support).

Tullaherin and Bennettsbridge. The churches were beautifully decorated. Fr Pat Duggan thanked all who helped out in both churches leading up to the ceremonies and included, sacristans, ministers of the Eucharist, readers, choirs, flower ladies and church cleaner.

EASTER CAMP A really enjoyable time was had by over 100 children who took part in the Easter Camp. Organised annually by Enda Morrissey and Cormac Wafer is a very popular event. There was a large variety of activities including hurling, gaelic football, rounders, rugby, playground games, dodge ball, arts and crafts, Lego, drama and music.activities were divided between the GAA grounds and the Community Hall. The weather played its part and the outdoor games went ahead as planned.

LOTTO JACKPOT There was no winner of the jackpot. The numbers drawn were, 1,5,8,10. Consolation prizes went to David Dowling, Bennettsbridge, Dylan Murphy, ℅ Aine, Shangarry Syndicate, Anne Marie Moran, Wendy McGuinness.

ART GROUP The Art Group will resume on Monday following the Easter Break.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the family of Niki O’Neill, Kilfera Court, Bennettsbridge Road, Kilkenny. Niki was a member of the Bennettsbridge Writers Group back in the nineties and contributed to “Daughters of the Wind”, their first publication. Through the years she kept in touch with her friends and supported the art group which evolved from the writers.

Niki passed away on 2nd April 2026, peacefully surrounded by family, in the exceptional care of the staff of the Oak Ward at South Eastern Palliative Care Centre, Waterford. Beloved mother of Karen, Luke and Donna and adored grandmother to Jason. Niki will be dearly missed by her loving family, brothers and sister, extended family, kind neighbours and her many good friends. Reposal was in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green on Easter Monday. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Tuesday morning in St. Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy, Kilkenny.

Interment took place in Foulkstown Cemetery. Rest in peace Niki.

PADDY TYNAN RIP Sympathy is extended to the family of Paddy Tynan, Millennium Court, Bennettsbridge and formerly of 71 Old Callan Road, Kilkenny who passed away on 4th April.

Paddy, in his 90th year, passed away surrounded by his loving family, in the wonderful care of the staff at Drakelands House Nursing Home. Paddy will be dearly missed by his sons Frank, Martin and Pat, daughters Veronica and Helena, his partner Margaret, brother Tom, sister Breda, cherished grandchildren Darragh, Cian, Patrick, Niamh, James, Gary, Rosetta, Jack, and Naomi, beloved great grandchildren Robbie, Alexa, Amelia, Harry and Ben, extended family here and abroad, former work colleagues, neighbours and friends.

Paddy is predeceased by the mother of his children Eileen Tynan, mother Peggy and brother Joe. Reposed in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green, Kilkenny. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown with interment

afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.

CAMOGIE CLUB Starting them young, the U6s were back on the pitch with their first training session of the 2026 season.

The club had representatives on the Kilkenny under 16A and 16B at the weekend.

2026 STREET LEAGUE The U6s to U10s start their season this Friday with the boys Bennettsbridge Bord Na nOg Street League. Look forward to seeing everyone back on the pitch. Gear swap on the night bring your pre-loved gear and pick something new to you in exchange.

EAST END SOCCER East End U11s progressed to the (Joe)Jagger Wemyss Shield semi-final with a strong win over Spa Utd at the weekend.T hey face Stoneyford on Saturday (11th). Best of luck to the team!

U14s played Evergreen at the weekend, Final score: East End 3–1 Evergreen.

The Under 12s played a friendly in Thomastown against the home team.

GAA Feile Winners 2026; a huge congratulations to our under 15 hurling team who were crowned Kilkenny division 2 Féile champions 2026 on Saturday last.

Group wins over Carrickshock, Erins Own, Galmoy and Windgap qualified the lads for the semi-final in Johns Park where they defeated Piltown. In the final Graignamanagh were defeated by four points after a very tough game. The lads now go forward to the national Féile in the summer. Well done to all the players and management on a great win.

Membership 2026; Membership for the coming season is now open and can be paid to any committee member or online via clubspot. For non-playing members the membership remains at 40 euro.

Adult players membership is €150 and student players is €100. Early payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2026 start to come in.

Junior Games; Bennettsbridge junior B and E teams begin their league campaigns this weekend with away games to Freshford and Erins Own. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for details. Best of luck to both teams.

Underage Games; Our under 14 footballers play Freshford away this Thursday in the semi final of the football league. BB minors defeated Clara last week and will play Freshford away in the third round this evening. Our under 16s had a good victory over Galmoy Windgap in the 2nd round of the league last Thursday. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for fixtures information.

Grand National Draw 2026; It’s Grand National Time again and the big race takes place this Saturday in Aintree. This year’s Bord Na Nog Grand National Draw will be held on Friday evening. This is the juvenile club’s main fundraiser and all funds raised goes towards running the underage hurling section of the club. Cards are available through any juvenile committee member and in shops around the village. The draw will take place this Friday evening.

Thanks again for the support.

Signage Campaign; Bennettsbridge GAA club Pitch signage campaign continues. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

Split the Pot; Well, done to James Crotty who won €74, Edel Dowling, €30 and to Sam Carroll, €20.

BENNETTSBRIDGE EASTER CEREMONIES The Easter ceremonies were very well attended in

Bennettsbridge U6 camogie on their first training session of the season.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

Community & GAA Notes The group is preparing for the upcoming Spring Clean on Sunday, 19th April and a Community Energy Information Event which will be held in May. Glas will meet again in the Community Centre on 21st April to continue to develop these initiatives.

MONTHLY TABLE QUIZ The last of this season’s monthly quizzes in the Fox’s Den was held on Monday, 30th March. It raised €888 for the Marian Hall. The winning team was Dunkitt Ramblers with The Girls runners-up. There were over 250 participants over the course of the season with the total raised €8797. It is hoped to run another series of the quiz from next October.

PARISH DATES First Holy Communion will be held at 11.00am on Saturday, 16th May. The Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 25th to 30th May and the Cemetery Mass will be held at 7.30pm on Friday, 26th June.

MULLINAVAT

East End U11s will play in the Jagger Wemyss Shield semi-final against Stoneyford this weekend.

The Easter hamper was won by Adam Walpole. The draw can also now be entered online on the club spot app under fundraising. Thanks again for the support.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN ACTIVE RETIREMENT The next meeting of the Active Retirement Group is on Thursday 16 April at 11am in the Community Hall, Paulstown.

AUCTION SALES (GORETom SBRIDGE) Healy The next auction will take place on April 20th.

Suitable items are now accepted. Contact Martin on 087 2569496 or email goresbridgeantiques@ gmail.com BARROW RANGERS There was no winner of the jackpot lotto draw of 31st March. Match 3 winners were (€25 each): Emma Mullins, Christy Kenny, Helen Drea and Maev Fenlon.

BRIDGE UNITED The prize in the Masters Golf Fundraising Tournament is €500. Seller’s prize of the winning card is for €100 while the winner takes €500. Entry fee is €10.

Contact James 087 7971276.

Last week’s winners in the Lotto draw were (€35 each): Jimmy Dunne, Pat Connolly and Siobhan Carrigan.

CHURCH SERVICES/EVENTS Weekday Masses: Goresbridge at 10am on Wednesday; Paulstown on Tuesday and Thursday: TALKING THE TALK Cupla Focal is an Irish language conversation circle that meets every Friday in the Goodly Barrow Cafe.

It offers a relaxed, friendly space to practice speaking Irish, build confidence, and connect with others interested in the language, from beginners to fluent speakers, through casual conversation and shared learning.

HORSE SALES The April 23rd sale will also include National Hunt three-year-old store horses, expanding the offering beyond point-to-pointers. The sale will feature a catalogue of Point-to-Point horses and a select number of three-year-old stores.

IONAD DARA Ionad Dara will hold its Annual General Meeting

at 8pm on Wednesday, 15 April. All members are encouraged to attend and take part in the proceedings. This is an important opportunity to review the past year’s activities, discuss future plans, and have your say in the continued development of the organisation. Your support and participation are greatly appreciated.

MENS SHED The next meetings of the Mens Shed will be on Tuesday 21st April at 11am in in the cabin by the Paulstown Community Hall (R95 NY93). New members welcome.

SCOIL BHRÍDE (GORESBRIDGE) The Parent’s Association is holding a fund raising event on Sunday 26th April at the Kilkenny Dog Track. The track opens at 7pm with the first race at 7.30pm. Entrance: €10 per Adult and children are free. All admission tickets are entered into a draw for €100 cash prize. Donations can also be made via GoFundMe. This will be a fun filled night for all the community.

SPLIT THE POT Split the Pot In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results of the lotto draw for 5th April were: 1 Deirdre and Branach (€100) 2. Liz Ryan (€20) and 3. Mick Moloney (€20).

STROKE SUPPORT Meetings the both the Kilkenny and the Carlow Stroke Support Groups are open to Stroke survivors and carers. The Carlow meeting takes place every second Friday of the month in St Dympna’s Hospital, Carlow from 2pm to 4pm. For further information text/call Lynda 087 7814697.

KILMANAGH MARY DUNNE Sympathy is extended to George Dewberry and extended family on the death of George’s sister, Mary Dunne, Kilkenny recently.

FIRE SAFETY TALK A talk on general fire safety in the home will take place in Naomh Aodhan Community Centre, Kilmanagh, R95 YT25 on Monday next, 13th April at 7pm. This will also cover information on the Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Scheme in place for the elderly. All are welcome to attend. We would like to see as many as possible attend on the night. If you have any queries please contact 086 373 99 83.

BALLYKEEFFE AMPHITHEATRE The season of events at Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre

was launched recently. The full programme of performers and booking details can be found at www. ballykeeffeamphitheatre.com/ tickets.

MASS WEBCAMS Masses from Kilmanagh are livestreamed on church media at https://churchmedia.ie/our-ladyqueen-of-peace-kilmanagh/. Mass webcam has been installed recently in St. Lachtain’s Church, Freshford by Church Media Ireland. All masses will be livestreamed through the webcam at https:// churchmedia.ie/st-lachtains-church-freshford/.

Webcam is also being installed in Tullaroan, access available at https://churchmedia/ie/church-of-theassumption-tullaroan/. Links will be available on the WhatsApp group. List of churches on churchmedia.ie.

LOTTO RESULTS The results for 30th March. Numbers drawn were 15; 18; 24; 27. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Orla Flynn, Rita Bourke, James and Brian Dermody. Sellers prizes went to Bill Ryan and Josie Ronan.

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

KILMACOW UPCOMING CLOTHES COLLECTION Kilmacow Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football Club will hold a clothes collection at the Sports Complex from 9.00am to 11.00am on Saturday, 18th April.

Acceptable donations include old clothes (clean), sports-wear, coats, shoes, curtains, bags and bed linen.

PAUL’S COMPLEX ADVENTURE Paul Atkins will run/walk on the Sports Complex from 6.00am to 7.00pm on Saturday, 23rd May in aid of the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation. Please contact Paul at 087 270 8561 for more details. All support welcome.

KILMACOW SPRING CLEAN The Annual Spring Clean will be held in Kilmacow from 12 noon to 2.0pm on Sunday, 19th April.

Meeting at the Church Gates at 12 noon. Bags, Hi-vis vests, gloves and litter pickers will be available. All support will be appreciated.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 4, 10, 17 and 18. There were two March 3 winners.

KILMACOW GLAS

BUS (ROUTE 4) MEETING A meeting to discuss the announcement on 27th March from Bus Éireann that it intends to cease its Route 4 Expressway service (Waterford - Dublin/ Dublin Airport) from Sunday, 24th May will be held in the Community Centre at 8.00pm on Wednesday, 8th April. All welcome.

VAT PAK Mullinavat VAT PAK will present Betwixt and Between by Michael J Ginelly in the Marian Hall, Kilmacow at 8.00pm on Friday, 17th April and in Thomastown Community Hall at 8.00pm on Saturday, 18th April. Doors open from 7.30pm. Admission €12. All support welcome.

LISTERLIN VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME A Part VIII planning process for Village Improvement Works in Listerlin has started. Phase 1 works will include traffic calming ramps within the existing speed limit zone, pedestrian crossings (2), upgrade of signage and markings, junction modification and extension of existing footway. Phase 2 will include a car park and associated works. Details are available on the Council website and at the Area Office in Ferrybank until 1st May. Submissions can be made online or in writing to Mary Mulholland, Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny before 15th May. MUSIC WORKSHOP People will soon get an opportunity to learn to play (beginner and intermediate level) the tin whistle, keyboard and piano accordion locally. Contact Suzanne at 087 248 5850 for details.

TULLOGHER/ROSBERCON The Vintage and Classic Club is set to host a fantastic vintage show at the Parish Centre in Rosbercon on Sunday, 26th April, with proceedings getting underway from 12 noon. This promises to be a wonderful family day out, offering something for all ages and interests, and bringing the local community together for a fun-filled and memorable occasion.

A wide variety of attractions and activities will be available throughout the day. Vintage enthusiasts will have plenty to enjoy, with an impressive display of classic vehicles and machinery on show. In addition to this, there will be a lively dog show, which is always a popular feature and sure to attract plenty of interest from both participants and spectators alike.

For younger visitors, a fun-fair will provide plenty of entertainment, while underage hurling and camogie games will showcase local sporting talent and add to the vibrant atmosphere. There will also be a selection of food and exhibition stands, offering refreshments, local produce, and a chance to browse a range of interesting displays.

Admission to the event is very affordable, with entry priced at just €5 for adults, while children can attend free of charge, making it an ideal outing for families. The organisers are encouraging as many people as possible to come along, support the event, and enjoy everything that is on offer.

For further information or any queries, interested parties are invited to contact PJ on 087 7982118 or Liz on 087 6372733, who will be happy to assist with additional details about the day’s events.

COLÁISTE COIS SIÚIRE As part of its 90th Anniversary celebration a field day will be held on the school grounds on Sunday, 19th April and an evening of song and recollection will be held on Friday, 22nd May. Contact the school for more details.

FERRYBANK FERRYBANK LIBRARY At 12 noon on Saturday, 11th and 25th April, the

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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Community & GAA Notes library will host Storytime and Craft sessions for children. These enjoyable events will give young visitors the chance to listen to stories read by library staff in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

Following the storytelling, children can take part in a fun and creative craft activity. The sessions are designed to encourage imagination, creativity, and a love of reading. There is no need to book in advance, and all children are welcome to attend and take part in these free and engaging activities.

The library will also host a House Plant Swap event from 5.00pm to 7.0pm Wednesday, 15th April. People can bring along a houseplant or two to exchange for a new one. It will host a Lego Drop-In event from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Saturday, 18th April. This family-friendly event is open to all. For more information, please contact Ferrybank Library at 051 897200 or email ferrybank@ kilkennylibrary.ie.

GREENWAY UPDATE The opening of the greenway is contingent on the completion of works within the North Quay development. The works on the greenway (Phase 2) are substantially complete with snagging and finishing works due for completion by the end of the month. A small temporary greenway trailhead will be made available within the North Quay development. The two Councils and two project teams continue to liaise with each other to facilitate the opening of the greenway at the earliest possible date.

A bike station, tarmac and road markings have been installed in the temporary car park in Curraghmore.

SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT BRIDGE The bascule spans are operational as required to cater for river traffic and temporary structures within the river Suir are gradually being removed.

The permanent bridge protection system is due to be fully installed over the next few months. Finishing works are progressing, with edge railings, glass panels and pedestrian barriers installed and lighting, surfacing and street furniture to follow. It is anticipated that the bridge will open towards the end of 2027, aligning with progress of the public plaza areas of the North Quay’s SDZ development and the opening of the transport hub.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to provide a wide range of supports, services, and activities for individuals and families within the local community. The Centre is a welcoming and inclusive space, offering opportunities for learning, wellbeing, and social connection for people of all ages.

One of the upcoming opportunities available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme.

This free L.T.I. course will be starting soon and includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable life skills that can support employment and independence. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or make contact directly for further details and application information.

The Centre also offers weekly Maths Grinds, which are currently taking place on-site. These grinds are suitable for students preparing for the Junior Certificate as well as 5th year students and provide additional support to help build confidence and understanding in mathematics. Parents and students seeking more information are invited to contact the Centre for times, availability, and fees.

A variety of essential community services are available through the Mill Family Resource Centre.

These include the provision of Senior Alert Alarms, which offer peace of mind and safety for older members of the community, as well as clothes donations for those in need. The Centre also facilitates a Youth Club, community allotments, and the Cois Nore Advice Clinic, ensuring access to practical advice and supports close to home.

Counselling services are available for both adults and teenagers, offering a confidential and supportive environment. Counselling supports include bereavement counselling, addiction support, and general counselling, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with professional guidance. In addition, Play Therapy is available for young people aged 4 years and over, providing a child-centred approach to emotional wellbeing and development.

The Centre’s Active Retirement Group meets every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm. This group offers a relaxed and social setting where members can enjoy activities, conversation, and companionship.

New members are always welcome, and the group continues to grow as a valued part of the Centre’s weekly programme.

The Youth Club has now returned and takes place every Wednesday from 5pm to 6.30pm. It is open to boys and girls aged 8 to 12 years, and new members are always encouraged to join. The club provides a safe, fun, and supervised space for young people to socialise, take part in activities, and build friendships. For further details, please contact Sue at the Centre.

Community gardening is also supported through the Centre’s allotments, with free beds available in the polytunnels for anyone interested in growing their own produce. The cost is just €15 per year, making it an affordable and rewarding activity.

Those interested should get in touch with the Centre.

Finally, there is an open invitation to any men interested in setting up a Men’s Shed in the area.

This initiative would provide a valuable social and practical outlet, and anyone interested is asked to contact Sue at the Mill Family Resource Centre on 056 883 8466.

For more information on any of the services or activities available, please contact the Centre directly. You should call in it’s fantastic.

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

EASTER CEREMONIES It was great to see such a large attendance from our parish at our Easter ceremonies in both Churches. A special word of thanks to Fr Walton also to the Sacristans, Readers, Musicians, Ministers of the Eucharist, Servers, Collectors and anyone else who helped over the Easter period.

EASTER CLERGY COLLECTION Many thanks for your contributions towards the first of four collections for the support of the clergy of the archdiocese both active & retired which was taken up last weekend.

TROCAIRE BOXES A sincere thanks to everyone who returned their Trocaire boxes over the weekend. You can still return them over the next couple of weeks CASHEL AND EMLY ARCHDIOCESAN The pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from June 12th, (five nights) led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. For information and booking contact Joe Walsh Tours @ 01 2410800. Assisted pilgrims contact Fr Joe Tynan, 087 2225445, New Helpers contact Jacqueline 089 4913351. Email lourdespilgrimage@cashel-emly.ie COUNTRY MUSIC DANCE A Country music dance will take place in Gortnahoe Hall on Friday 17th April at 8pm. Ther will be a special guest country singer on the night and also spot prizes. Admission €10. All are welcome to attend.

WHEELCHAIR MARKINGS A sincere thanks to Sean Ryan MCC for providing funds to Gortnahoe Community Playschool to facilitate wheelchair markings outside the community hall in Gortnahoe.

ARTS GROUP Expressive Arts Group for Children. A fun arts and crafts group encouraging creativity and selfexpression for children. Starting soon on Thursday evenings in Glengoole Hall. For information or to register interest please contact: Chloe – 086 121 6343 COME AND SEE DAY In Pallottine Centre, Thurles this Saturday. 11th April, 11am to 4.30pm (including Eucharist). A day to explore Priesthood, talks, time for prayer and answering your questions. Booking through National Vocations Office. Contact carol.king@ vocations.ie RUBBISH COLLECTION It was great to see individuals and groups picking up rubbish on the side of the road throughout our parish over the last weekend. It would be great if people would volunteer to pick up rubbish in their own area to keep our parish tidy. We would appeal to motorists to refrain from throwing litter out of cars as plastic items, etc can be harmful to the enviroment and does nothing for the beauty of our countryside. It is also noted that cans and plastic bottles are now recycled in all shops and credit is given for each item returned.

DANCE CLASSES Dance Classes Step it out with Sally—Learn to Jive, Foxtrot, Waltz, Quickstep and Line Dance.

Group lessons, no partner needed. Every Thursday at 8.30pm. €10, pay as you go. Contact Sally 087 7931308

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

Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO Our special Easter bingo was cancelled last Saturday because of Storm Dave on health safety grounds. We will be holding our special bingo Easter bingo this Saturday evening 11th April at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €4,100 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game and a Easter special game for €800.

There will be Easter eggs on every win and Split the Pot on the day. Parish support would be appreciated.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Willie Delaney, Gortnahoe who won €228 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday.

Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange, Mary Willie’s, Gortnahoe Hall and any member of the committee, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for April is in aid of Kilcooley Way. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CONAHY HURLING The Conahy Shamrocks under-15 hurlers travelled to Thomastown on Saturday morning last to take part in the Paddy Grace Féile competition.

The locals were very unfortunate to miss out on qualifying for the Division 3 semi finals following games against Cloneen, Tullaroan and Emeralds.

Well done to all involved.

The under-16 hurlers were also in action in the Duggan Steel Roinn C League when they hosted Glenmore in Jenkinstown. The visitors were the stronger team throughout and were deserving winners by 4-16 to 0-10.

The junior E hurlers also play their first game in 2026 when they play host to O’Loughlin Gaels in Jenkinstown on Saturday next at 6.30 in the JJ Kavanagh Junior E league.

FOOTBALL The Conahy Shamrocks senior footballers will face Thomastown in the JJ Kavanagh Senior Football Championship Quarter-Final in Jenkinstown on Sunday next at 12.00. Best of luck to all involved.

CAMOGIE The intermediate camogie girls faced Lisdowney/ St. Patrick’s on Sunday last in Lisdowney in their latest game in the Intermediate Summer League.

It was an excellent team performance from start to finish as the locals scored a big win, scoring some well taken goals along the way. They are back in action on the weekend after next when they take on Dicksboro in Palmerstown.

TEAM: Ruth Phelan, Amy Lawless, Grainne Comerford, Aislinn Comerford, Aisling Maher, Katie Brennan, Eva Kennedy, Molly O’Dornan, Emma Mulhall, Amy Morrissey, Hollie Brennan, Naomi Kerr, Sarah Dooley, Clodagh Lawless, Siofraidh Kennedy, Grace Mulhall, Robyn Morrissey, Emily Lawless, Grace Butler, Caoimhe Mulhall, Mary Lou Rowe, Sarah Webster.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 6, 23 and 39. There was no winner of the €4,300 jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Dermot Mulhall, Cliona O’Connor, Nicholas Baldwin, Deirdre Holland and Shaun McGrath. The promoter prize winners were Helen Cahill, Nora Delaney and David Maher. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

COIS NORE CANCER SUPPORT Cois Nore Cancer Support will now visit Castlecomer every Wednesday in the Community Hall from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. - please note the change of day and time.

This change of day for Cois Nore attending Castlecomer starts on Wednesday, April 15th.

The service is for people diagnosed with cancer, support for their families, or to find out more information about Cois Nore’s Cancer Support services in Kilkenny. Please drop in on a Wednesday (Castlecomer Hall from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m.) or ring Aileen on 087-4833941 for an appointment.

All callers welcome.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD PRIESTS IN THE PASTORAL AREA Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone

056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@ gmail.com. Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory. ie Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Vigil Saturday at 6.30p.m.

Anniversary Masses; Tom McGrath, Norelands: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 6.30p.m.

Peter and Wazzie Kenneally, Barnadown. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday at 10.00a.m.

MANY THANKS: Thanks to all who prepared and attended the Masses and Ceremonies during Holy Week. Special thanks to all the Readers; and those who organised the Readers in both Churches; Eucharistic Ministers, Musicians, Choirs, Servers, Cleaners etc.

ROTA (SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER) Readers, 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 8.00p.m. Teresa Broderick. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Foran OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 2026 Pilgrimage will take place this year from May 25th. to May 30th. Early booking is advisable as space is limited. All bookings should be made through Joe Walsh Tours by calling 01 2410 800 or by post to JWT, 89 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2. Special Assisted/Sick Pilgrims who would like to travel should apply to Anna Colleton at a.colleton@ cbskilkenney.ie. Acceptance for travel with the special section for the sick is subject to the approval of the Pilgrimage Medical Board.

DATES TO REMEMBER FOR 2026 First Holy Communion: Stoneyford School on Sunday 10th. May at 11.00a.m. in Stoneyford Church.

Monroe/Newmarket Schools on Sunday 17th. May at 11.00a.m. in Hugginstown Church.

Confirmation: Monroe/Newmarket Schools on Saturday 25th. April in Hugginstown Church at 10,00a.m. Stoneyford School on Saturday 25th.

April in Stoneyford Church at 12.00Noon Cemetery Masses: Mass will be celebrated in Calvary Cemetery on Friday 5th. June at 8.00p.m.

Mass will be celebrated in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 3rd. July at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 4th. July at 8.00p.m.

Lotto: - Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 30th. March 2026 Numbers: 27; 19; 30; 13. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Michael Butler, Mullinbeg; Larry O’Shea, “On-Line”. Dawn and David Holden, Ballintubber. T.J. Mills “On-Line”. Marie Walsh, Miltown.

3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Catherine Duggan. James Irish. Fred Malzard.

TRÓCAIRE COLLECTION We ask that all Trócaire Contributions be returned as soon as possible please.

EASTER OFFERINGS Envelopes for the Easter Offering Collection are available at the Church Porch. Please take one and return it with your offering during the Easter Season. This offering 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) MONROE SCHOOL Clothes Collection will take place on Thursday 23rd. April. Unwanted clothes can be dropped into school shed over the next two weeks.

“ANAM CARA” An Online Bereavement Information Evening for bereaved parents. All Anam Cara events are free and open to parents whose child or children have died, regardless of the age of their child, circumstances of their death, or time since bereavement.

This event will take place online on Tuesday 14th. April at 7.00p.m. The professional speaker this month is Bryan Nolan. Bryan has an M.A. in Healthcare Chaplaincy from DCU and is a Certified Healthcare Chaplain with specialisations in endof-life, grief, and loss care. To register please email: at info@anamcara.ie or call 085 288 8888.

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

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Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

FULFIL LEINSTER GAA U20 HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP TIER 1 GROUP 1 – ROUND 1 Kildare 0-10 Kilkenny 1-16 Henry Shefflin’s reign as Kilkenny U20 manager got off to a winning start with a hard-fought opening round win in the Fulfil Leinster U20 Hurling Championship in a stormy Manguard Park last weekend. The final scoreline may have recorded a 9-point victory for the Noresiders, but Adrian Kinsella’s Lilywhite’s gave a decent account of themselves and underlined the great work taking place in Kildare with the small ball. With just ten minutes remaining in Hawkfield, the home side only trailed by one score, but the lads in stripes pulled away to secure what many had predicted would be the expected victory registering the final six scores of the contest.

The hosts had secured tier 2 wins over Kerry and Westmeath before facing the young Cats, looked sharp early on, and got the scoreboard moving inside the opening minute, thanks to a nice point from Naas’s Oisín O’Neill. The travelling side got moving shortly after, courtesy of a score from O’Loughlin Gaels Greg Kelly. The black and amber boys edged ahead in the 6th minute, the youngest of Ballyhale’s Clan Mullen, Jake notching the first of his 3-point tally. Adrian Kinsella’s side registered the next two scores of the round 1 clash, the first from the game’s top scorer, Maynooth’s Tom Power and a tidy effort from Ardclough’s Tim Ryan. Shefflin’s charges replied with a duo of scores themselves, a second of the afternoon from Jake Mullen and a fine score from Danesfort star Fionn Mahony. The crossfield wind was causing problems for both sides, and this saw fourteen wide’s shared between the teams in the opening period.

Dicksboro speedster Patrick Lacey opened his account on 18 minutes, striking over the first of his three placed ball efforts at the Kildare GAA Centre of Excellence and the attacker notched his second after Tom Power had responded with a free of his own as Kilkenny led by two points with about eight minutes remaining in the first half. Another of the Palmerstown contingent, Evan Murphy then rifled over a lovely score, just ahead of the games only major. Glenmore’s Jack Dollard secured possession before playing an inch perfect pass to Patrick Lacey. The ‘Boro player turned and burst forward from outside the ‘big arc’ before striking his shot across Kildare netminder Cormac Doolan,

Lacey’s major sinks Lilywhites in U20’s win Young Cats pull clear to secure victory

Ollie Donovan looked lively

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters - Review Patrick lacey struck a stunning major

Greg Kelly notched a brace of points against Kildare

Jack Dollard hit a fine score from wingback Jack Dollard hit a fine score from wingback

who despite getting his stick to it, couldn’t prevent the shot from nestling in the top left corner of the net.

That was the last score of an entertaining first half which saw the Cats take a 6-point lead into the changing rooms at a very windy Manguard Park.

Kildare would have hoped to close the gap when play resumed, but it was Henry’s boys that pulled further clear at the start of the second period, thanks to scores from Midfielder Kevin Buggy and centre forward Ed Lauhoff which left the home side eight points down, but credit to Adrian Kinsella’s charges they dug in and responded well to the huge challenge posed by Kilkenny. The Lilywhites would register six of the games next seven points, all from the hurl of Maynoooth’s Tom Power via placed balls, something that the Kilkenny management will have been addressing in training

since the game. During this purple patch for the home side, Henry Shefflin and his management team made a number of changes, with Colm Treacy, Ollie O’Donovan and Anthony Clifford all sprung from the bench as the visitors sought to inject freshness to their side as their lead had been reduced to just 3 points with about ten minutes of play remaining in Hawkfield.

The Noresiders then took the game by the scruff of the neck, stepping up when needed as their hosts sensed the chances of a huge upset. Sub Colm Treacy got the scoreboard moving again for the Cats, a fine effort from the Thomastown player. The influential Jack Dollard rifled over from out the pitch just ahead of a lovely point from Clara’s David Barcoe, who was thoroughly deserving of his POTM. Former minor star Ollie O’Donovan popped over a sweet score; the John Lockes player is a real talent. Jake Mullen hit his third of the encounter with about 3 minutes left, while

his manager made another couple of changes, Louis Raggett and Jim Conlan replacing Greg Kelly and Jack Dollard respectively. The last score of the game came from the Cats stop scorer, Patrick Lacey, the Dicksboro man sending over this third placed ball of the game to leave the full-time score in Manguard Park, Kildare 0-10, Kilkenny 1-16.

Scorers: Kildare - Tom Power 0-8 (7 frees), Tim Ryan 0-1, Oisin O’Neill 0-1.

Scorers: Kilkenny - Paddy Lacey 1-3 (3 frees), Jake Mullen 0-3, Greg Kelly 0-2, Evan Murphy 0-1, Fionn Mahony 0-1, Kevin Bubby 0-1, Ollie O’Donovan 0-1, Kevin Buggy 0-1, David Barcoe 0-1, Colm Donavan 0-1. Ed Lauhoff 0-1.

Kildare: Cormac Doolan; Darragh Devine, Paddy Connolly, Dylan Doherty; Oisin O’Neill, Cian Brody, Odhran Conaty; Michael Owens, Tim Ryan; Cillian Power, Charlie Carroll, Oran Byrne; Mark Kiernan, Tom Power, Tom Boran. Subs: Alex Bell for Charlie Carroll (41 minutes); Cillian Harrington for Mark Kiernan (43 minutes); Rian Cramer for Cillian Power (52 minutes); Rian Curran for Tom Boran (53 minutes);

Colm Gordon for Oran Byrne (59 minutes).

Kilkenny: Billy O’Sullivan; Josh Dowling, Darragh Vereker, Rory Garrett; Evan Murphy, David Barcoe, Jack Dollard; Kevin Buggy, Sean Bergin; Patrick Lacey, Ed Lauhoff, Jake Mullen; Fionn Mahony, Ed McDermott,

Greg Kelly. Subs: Colm Tracey for Fionn Mahony (41 minutes); Ollie O’Donovan for Ed Lauhoff (41 minutes); Anthony Clifford for Sean Bergin (48 minutes); Louis Raggett for Greg Kelly (55 minutes); Jim Conlon for Jack Dollard (58 minutes).

Referee: Sean Maher (Offaly)

>> SHERRY SAYS...

A great start for our U20 hurlers, recording a 9-point win over Kildare in Manguard Park, Hawkfield. There is no doubting the quality that the management team has at their disposal as they embarked on this Leinster campaign. Rory Garrett has had plenty of minutes with the senior side under Derek Lyng, while POTM last week, David Barcoe and Ed McDermott have been in and around the senior panel also.

Henry Shefflin will be very aware of the talent that his clubmate Jake Mullen possesses, and he along with Patrick Lacey, Fionn Mahoney and Ollie O’Donovan can prove a real threat to opposition defences. Glenmore duo Darragh Vereker and Jack Dollard see plenty of senior club action down at Pairc na Ratha, while Erin’s Own’s Kevin Buggy is highly thought of in Castlecomer.

Last weekend’s bench had plenty of talent also, the aforementioned John Lockes man, Ollie O’Donovan, Louis Raggett, Colm Tracy of Thomastown and Danesfort’s Sam Hayes all chomping at the bit and contributing when called in Hawkfield. Plenty of reasons to get out and get behind this talented bunch during this U20 campaign.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PAT WALSH ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND 1ST ANNIVERSARY

Pat Walsh 15, St. Fiacres Place, Kilkenny Who passed away on 14th April, 2025.

Pat’s daughter Lucy and his brothers and sisters wish to acknowledge with deep appreciation the many expressions of sympathy, gestures and kindness from relatives, friends and neighbours. They have been a great source of comfort at a very sad time.

Thanks to Dr. Behan and the staff of Castle Gardens Medical Practice, to the doctors and nurses at St. Luke’s hospital especially the doctors, nurses and staff in the Nore Ward.

A sincere thank you to Johnston’s Funeral Directors for their kindness, care and professionalism towards our family from start to finish. Thanks to Fr. Kieran O’Shea for his kind words at Pat’s wake and funeral.

As it is not possible to thank each and every person individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

Pat’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 12th April, at 12pm in St. Fiacres Church, Loughboy, Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. I.L.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.H.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.ON.

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. D.C.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. J.M.

46

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th April 2026

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