First-time buyers in Kilkenny and elsewhere will be able to withdraw loans from their local council for houses costing up to €360,000 under changes to a Government scheme for people who have been turned down for mortgages by a bank.
Housing Minister Darragh
O’Brien is bringing a memo to Cabinet seeking to increase housing price and income lim-
its set out under the Local Authority Home Loan scheme.
e initiative has been in place for a number of years. City and county councils provide funding to rst-time buyers who have been turned down for mortgages by traditional lenders.
e changes to the scheme are being introduced to re ect the rising cost of housing in recent years.
Graignamanagh has been named as one of the Top 10 most charming ‘villages’ in Ireland, according to The Guardian newspaper.
In a travel page report, in part, it says:
“Graignamanagh (greg·nuh·maanah) needs to marinate in the ear for a while – and there’s little hope of a snappy hashtag with a name that long.
The last e ort to put it on the map ended almost as soon as it began more than 200 years ago, when the Grand Canal Company developed the quays well beyond capacity and added a fine, overpriced hotel for good measure.
“Both lay idle for centuries, but the village has finally grown into its infrastructure, with cleverly designed walking routes that lead to the summit of nearby Brandon Hill, and to popular canoeing lanes.”
“We want and need the scheme to be relevant in today’s housing market so we are increasing the house price limits for all local authorities,” a Government source said.
e Government is also increasing the income limits for applicants in each local authority. Emphasising the need to help single purchasers, the income limit on single applicants
will be increased and will now be the same in all parts of the country.
In Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford, Limerick, Clare, and Westmeath it will increase by €50,000 to €300,000. All other local authorities will see the houseprice limit increase by €25,000 to €275,000.
Meanwhile, income limits for a single person applying for
a loan will increase to €70,000 nationwide and for joint applicants it will rise from €75,000 to €85,000 for the entire country.
In order to qualify for the scheme a rst-time buyer must be employed for the last two years and have been turned down for a mortgage from two lenders. e loan can be used to purchase a new or secondhand home or to build a home.
Ireland South MEP Sean Kelly has called on EU leaders to support a call for a ban on Russian and Belarusian athletes competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
e Kilkenny native and leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament told e Kilkenny Observer: “We are fast approaching the one year anniversary of Russia’s illegal and brutal invasion of Ukraine, while the Russian
regime continues to commit war crimes and intentionally attack civilians. Having Russian and Belarusian athletes compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics is unthinkable and should not be allowed.
e MEP has co-signed a letter sent to the President of the European Council, Charles Michel, which states that the decision by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to allow athletes from aggressor
states Russia and Belarus to participate in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games “goes against our democratic values which are based on peace and respect for international law”.
In that letter Mr Kelly, who has been an MEP since 2009. said: “ is decision by the IOC diminishes the international recognition and condemnation of war crimes and genocide in Ukraine. With this decision the IOC distances itself
from our common values and e ectively turns a blind eye to tens of thousands of Ukrainian casualties, many of them innocent civilians.”
Kelly, a former President of the GAA, said hosting these athletes would seriously damage the reputation of the Olympic Games: “It would be grossly unfair to other athletes and countries participating that the shadow of Russian and its ally Belarus’ war crimes
e cost-of-living crisis is prompting large numbers of parents to skip meals or reduce portion sizes so their children have enough to eat.
And one in 10 parents said they had used food banks or received a food donation in the previous 12 months, according to research commissioned by national children’s charity Barnardos. is is more than double the number from the previous survey.
Unicef Ireland has launched an emergency fundraising appeal for children and families impacted by the devastating earthquake in Syria. UNICEF estimates that thousands of children and families are at risk after two earthquakes and dozens of aftershocks hit Syria and south-east Türkiye on Monday.
See Pages 6 and 14
Langton’s in Kilkenny city was named Best Boutique Hotel Wedding Venue while Mountain View in Ballyhale took two titles of Best Alternative Wedding Venue and Best Festival Wedding Venue.
e latter was also one of six to make the Judges Choice list where it was joined by Ballykealy House in Carlow. Full story, Page 10
and aggression against the innocent people of Ukraine”, MEP Kelly said.
e Fine Gael MEP also pointed to Russia’s historic record of doping athletes.
He said there was precedent for such a ban, such as when South Africa was not invited to the 1964 Olympic Games due to apartheid.
e letter is co-signed by Mr Kelly’s Fine Gael colleague, Colm Markey MEP.
Paul Hopkins .........................P8
Marianne Heron .................P12
Clair Whitty .........................P12
Special Report .....................P14
Science & Wellbeing..........P18
Travel & Leisure .................P19
Gerry Moran ........................P20
Gerry Cody P27, 28, 29 & 50
Food & Drink .......................P52
Streaming.............................P53
Sport................................ P58, 59
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola have launched the nal phase of a major youth competition celebrating 50 years of Ireland’s membership in the EU.
Students from ird Level Institutions are being invited to enter the competition on the subject of the EU’s core values — human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, human rights.
e winner will be awarded €2,000 and entries can be in the form of a podcast, newspaper column / opinion piece, speech, or a poster.
Marking the launch, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola met some students from across ird Level institutions in Ireland in the Long Room of the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin.
e Taoiseach said: “I am delighted to launch the MyEU50 Youth Competition for students in third level institutions.
e founding values of the European Union included respect for personal dignity; freedom; democracy; equality; the rule of law and human rights.
“As we mark 50 years of Ireland’s membership of the EU through the Government’s EU50 programme and as we face the challenges ahead, we need to draw strength and guidance from those values.
“ rough the MyEU50 competition, students will be given the unique opportunity to
re ect on the enormous progress made by the EU over the past 50 years, and explore how Ireland can best contribute to the Union over the next 50 years.”
e President of the European Parliament said: “ e MyEU50 competition
is a wonderful initiative. Ireland’s 50-year membership of the European Union is a success story. It is important that young people from across Ireland be aware of the benets of EU membership, so that they can avail of the opportunities and rights that the EU
Twilight Youth Inclusion Group took a trip to Kbowl Kilkenny last week and enjoyed an hour of bowling and time in the arcades. eir competitive sides came out to play and they showed o some of their real skills. And of course you have got to have some popcorn and sweets to really enjoy a trip to Kbowl! Big thank you to their two youth leaders Liam Mungovan and Leah McDonnell for organising this trip and an especially big thank you to Kbowl Kilkenny for having us!
We will de nitely be back!
Fun activities are planned each week, whether it’s a trip,
an interactive workshops or just some fun games. Last week allowed some of our more artistic youths to showcase their talents in some Art erapy. Art erapy is a creative outlet for young people. It supports youth with developmental, behavioural and emotional issues by providing a safe and creative space for them to explore their thoughts and feelings through art. Art can have a positive e ect on the mind as it allows you to process your feelings without the fear of being judged. Our members of Twilight Youth Inclusion Group were tasked with drawing a tree that they felt represents them and their
feelings. After Art erapy, they had time to unwind and chill out with friends. ey enjoyed some pool and card games. It is great to see how excited our youths are each week coming to club. ey get to have fun and laugh and spend time with friends they only see each Saturday.
We are currently expanding our space, with the development of a brand new fully equipped games room. In the coming months, we will also be expanding by putting in a state of the art ‘quiet room’, which will be used by our youths as a safe space they can use when they feel overwhelmed or just need a break!
brings. Our union is a union of values of freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law.”
MyEU50 is a competition across all three levels of education in Ireland, Primary schools, Post-Primary schools, and ird Level Institutions, hosted and managed by Eu-
ropean Movement Ireland in partnership with the Government of Ireland.
e third level entries for the competition will focus on at least one EU core value, human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, rule of law, human rights and demon-
strate their relevance in today’s Ireland. Any student attending a third level or higher and further education institution in Ireland can enter. e deadline for submissions is Friday, March 31 and the winner will be announced at a ceremony in April.
e HSE is being taken to court by 44 families whose relatives died after contracting Covid-19 in a hospital or nursing home.
Bereaved families have taken cases through the State Claims Agency (SCA), which manages personal injury claims on the behalf of State bodies, including the HSE.
A claim means the SCA has received noti cation of intention to seek compensation where it is alleged the State was negligent.
A spokesperson for the SCA said each case will be considered “on its own particular set of facts”.
“ e SCA, as a matter of respect for plainti s and their
A man from Kilkenny has warned drivers to lock their doors when out and about after his wife had a terrifying experience in daytime recently .
e driving test specialist, who runs the ‘Road Sense Kilkenny’ TikTok account, told his story in a short video warning others to lock their doors no matter what.
“My wife was driving down J ohn’s Street this morning on her own after drop[ing my son to work and luckily enough we have an automatic lock on her car, so once you go up above 10km/h all the doors lock.”
He said his wife had just dropped his son o to work at around 8:30 in the morning and were driving home.
Despite it being busy and early in the day, a man tried to force his way into the car and was only stopped thanks to an automatic door lock that meant he had no way in.
In the short video, the driver said: “Morning everybody!
Listen, just a quick warning
video for people and maybe, please share just so people might see this.
“Someone tried to jump into the car beside her, and was pulling on the door handle”.
He went on to say: “Two things, I suppose lucky the car was locked so he couldn’t get in and the second thing was they had the dog in the car, so the dog went mental, so he wasn’t going to get into the car anyway.
“So I suppose, girls or anyone driving around in an older car that might not have any lock, it’s no harm to lock your doors.
“Because like if he is trying to get into the car for some reason, demand money, demand or try and grab her handbag, god only knows, there’s lots of strange things happening around town lately.
“ So if you’re out driving on your own, or even with someone, you know you might have your handbag in the back of the car, just lock the car doors to be safer”.
UNICEF Ireland has launched an emergency fundraising appeal for children and families impacted by the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria. UNICEF estimates that thousands of children and families are at risk after two earthquakes and dozens of aftershocks hit Syria and southeast Türkiye.
According to authorities, in the two countries, more than 12,000 people have been killed, including children, with thousands more injured. As rescue e orts continue across Syria, and south-east Türkiye, the appeal comes amid concerns that the number of children killed and injured could grow over the coming hours and days.
Children are always among the most vulnerable when disasters strike, and UNICEF
families, does not comment on individual cases or groups of cases,” he said.
“Covid cases involve complex assessments of liability and causation and such cases may also involve a third party.
“Accordingly, each case will be considered on its own particular set of facts.”
Aontú TD Peadar Tóibín
called for a commission of investigation to look at the State’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic in nursing homes.
“We’ve all heard the heartbreaking stories about what went on and the tragedies experienced by families up and down the country - perhaps where someone was admit-
is deeply concerned about the earthquake’s impact on children and families in Syria who are already living through one of the world’s most complex emergencies.
UNICEF Ireland Executive Director Peter Power said: “We are deeply concerned. e scale of the devastation is vast and we are still anxiously waiting for the full picture to emerge.
e immediate aftermath of a disaster is the most critical time in terms of protecting the lives of children, whether that’s through emergency supplies or medical equipment. Our e orts in the next few days are essential, and we need urgent funds to support this work. People in Ireland have always shown immense solidarity with the children and families of Syria and we have no doubt that will continue now.”
Kilkenny is again due to be hopping and lepping to the sounds of the best traditional music on St Patrick’s weekend as the programme for this year’s Tradfest was recently launched in the city’s Paris Texas Bar and Restaurant.
e headline acts for this, the eighth festival, include trad rock groundbreakers Horslips, the anniversary tour of Andy Irvine and Paul Brady’s seminal album from the same era, the almost annual return of Donal Lunny as part of ‘ZoDoMo’ and the wrap-up gig in e Set eatre of multi-
ted to hospital with a minor ailment only to contract the virus in the hospital and die within a matter of days,” said Mr Tóibín.
“It is phenomenal to think that throughout the pandemic, when we were having debates about funerals, football matches and nightclubs, the most dangerous place
you could be was in a nursing home or hospital.
“[ ese are] two locations either run or regulated by the State. e families of those who died deserve justice and answers.
“I commend the 44 people or families who have come forward to issue claims against the State.”
award winning singer Iarla Ó Lionáird and his friend Steve Cooney.
Nigel Leydon of Bulmers said the company were delighted to continue with their sponsorship of the festival. “We have been with Tradfest Kilkenny from the start and its development into one of Ireland’s leading festivals has been a joy to be part of. e commitment to attracting the highest-quality acts to the stages of the city’s venues has ensured the crowds keep coming but we are equally delighted to sponsor the Bulmer’s MusicTrail which will
see top-quality sessions throughout the city in local pubs and venues.”
Pat Crotty of Kilkenny
City Vintners said the festival has been a huge hit: “ e city’s vintners recognised the need for a national standard trad festival in the city and we have been playing our part by ensuring musicians have the space and opportunity to perform in the type of informal sessions that are at the heart of Irish traditional music. We hope to see lots of locals and visitors coming out to support the true spirit of St. Patrick’s weekend
in some of Ireland’s nest pubs.” Festival Cathaoirleach Malcolm Noonan TD said this year’s line-up was a source of pride to the voluntary committee.
PAUL HOPKINS
It’s a crazy little thing. It’s a burning ame. It means never having to say you’re sorry. It can make us feel over the Moon. en again, it can hurt. What is this thing called love asked Frank Sinatra in the Cole Porter song. Indeed. And, while February 14 marks the day universally when billions — €36bn this year, according to Retail Advertising and Marketing Association — will be spent world-wide on chocolates, owers and God knows what else for couples to say in such an ostentatious way what could otherwise be conveyed in three little words, the mystery of what exactly love is still eludes us as much as ever.
Elusive though love may be, we have fought for it and died for it, sacked cities and built empires because of it, and penned great prose and poetry; have been inspired by
it and paid homage to it, and had periods in our history when artists and their easels were the primary purveyors of it. We have committed sin and done the dirty because of it and cheated and lied and cried over it and covered up to hide the illicitness of it. It has brought great men to their knees and left women forlorn and unful lled (come on lads, take heed).
Courtly love and romance has been the topic of literature throughout the ages, laid bare by writers like Yeats, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Hemingway, Dylan omas, Kafka, Bernard Shaw, Wilde, and Katherine Mans eld. Love is forever idealised by the enduring classics, Little Women, Jane Eyre, Pride And Prejudice, and Wuthering Heights. Once upon a time, Mills & Boon was the ultimate in es-
capist chic, rose-tinted tales of love and romance entertained a generation of women for whom TV soaps and reallife mag- azines were still in the future. Today publishing houses cannot get enough romantic ction to meet demands. Our own Cecelia Ahern excels at it. Mills & Boon still sell 200 million copies a year. And as for 50 Shades Of Grey or Net ix’s Sex Education, well, let’s not go there... And then there is the food of love: the great and enduring
songs that celebrate love, won or lost, like Bing Crosby and Grace Kelly with True Love, Nat King Cole’s When I Fall In Love, the Hollies’ e Air at I Breathe, the Beatles’ Yesterday or indeed Katy Perry’s I Kissed A Girl. Adele, meanwhile, has made a whole industry out of unrequited love.
In psychology, love is a clearly de nable social phenomenon, with three di ering components: intimacy, commitment, and passion. Intimacy, where two people
share con dences and details of their personal lives, usually expressed in friendships and romantic love a airs. Commitment, on the other hand, the expectation that such a relationship is permanent.
And so to Valentine’s Day, and the last and most common love — sexual attraction and passion.
For women, they say, love and sex are somewhat inseparable while for men they are two distinct entities which supports the male argument that the heart should not be worried about what the dangly bits are up to.
I mean Love Island or Love Actually may well do it for women but for men it’s all down to Basic Instinct. e late Patrick Swayze may have had it goin’ on, but, when it comes to bedroom inspiration, clay-pot craft time just doesn’t cut it. Forget the
soppy romance of Ghost, Basic Instinct’s infamous (and oft-parodied) interrogation is memorable for red-blooded men everywhere. Meanwhile, modern day neuroscience gives us a denitive account of what love is or at least of what is going on inside of us when we fall into it. ere are certain chemicals present in the brain when people fall in love. Testosterone seems important for both male and female sexual behaviour. Dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin are more commonly found during the attraction phase of a relationship [as in “what a dope I’ve been. She never fancied me all along”].
In the nal analysis love is just a whole bunch of chemicals gone haywire in your brain.
On Valentine’s Day, haywire to the tune of €36bn.
Two Kilkenny's venues are among those celebrating the best of the Irish wedding industry, with popular wedding venue platform SaveMyDay.ie, as winners of the annual SaveMyDay. ie Irish Wedding Venue Awards. The SaveMyDay. ie awards showcase the best Irish wedding venues and special places and spaces available for hire for wedding receptions, parties and ceremonies ranging from intimate to larger weddings across a number of awards categories.
Ballyhale’s Mountain View and its 120 acres of private land takes the top spot in three categories, the most of any wedding venue across the country, including Ireland’s Best Alternative Wedding Venue, Ireland’s Best Festival Wedding Venue and an acclaimed Judge’s Choice award.
Kilkenny city’s popular Langton’s Hotel was named as Ireland’s Best Boutique Hotel Wedding Venue.
At Mountain View, with its amazing views of the rolling Kilkenny countryside, they offer a range of ceremony and reception options to couples including their stylish Greenhouse restaurant ideal for intimate gatherings, beautiful terrace for outdoor ceremonies, grand and spectacular parties in their Grand Marquee, and their one-of-a-kind alternative Cowshed setting.
Having been crowned Ireland’s Best Festival Wedding Venue, their on-site glamping village offers to-be-weds their own unique boutique festival experience with beautifully fully furnished and luxury bell tents. Guests can expect home from home comforts, with a double bed, fluffy pillows and king-sized duvet, while outside contains a table and chairs and your own fire pit looking out over miles of
stunning Irish countryside.
Kilkenny's Langton's Hotel is a welcoming hotel wedding venue located right in the heart of Kilkenny’s bustling city. Home to five beautiful wedding venue options all under one roof, Langton's is styled perfectly to suit intimate weddings or larger celebrations up to 342 guests at any time of the year.
Shell Holden, co-owner of SaveMyDay.ie, said: “At popular Irish wedding venue platform SaveMyDay.ie, we are proud to announce the wonderful winners across the 26 award categories in this year’s SaveMyDay. ie Irish Wedding Venue
Awards. This year’s deserving winners are located across 13 counties with Kilkenny’s
Mountain View taking the top spot in three categories, the most of any wedding
venue, including Ireland’s Best Alternative Wedding Venue, Ireland’s Best Festival Wedding Venue and an acclaimed Judge’s Choice award."
From magnificent and romantic castles, festivalfeel marquee and glamping venues, family run country houses and sprawling private estates, a landmark literature museum, exclusive Georgian townhouse, lovingly restored historic 18th century chapel, city centre boutique hotels, celebrated restaurants, panoramic coastal and tranquil shoreside settings, beautiful countryside backdrops and vibrant city locations to host
Progress is being made towards a deal on the Northern Ireland Protocol but difficulties remain, the EU's chief negotiator has said.
European Commission
Vice-President Maros Sefcovic said Brussels would “spare no effort” to reach a settlement with the UK on the contentious post-Brexit
trading arrangements. As Mr Sefcovic made his comments in Brussels, the UK government made clear that “significant work” was still required before an agreement could be reached.
The updates from both sides came amid intensifying speculation about an im-
minent deal to cut bureaucracy on the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
RTÉ News reported that the EU is set to agree to a UK proposal for a green-and red-lane model at Northern Ireland ports.
It would mean goods being shipped to NI from GB and
staying there would face fewer checks, compared to those going on to the Republic of Ireland or elsewhere in the EU.
A senior EU official reportedly told the Irish broadcaster that the green and red lanes at NI ports would govern both animal health and food safety issues, as
wedding ceremonies and receptions, this year’s SaveMyDay.ie Irish Wedding Venue Award winners showcase the wonderful wide range of wedding venues on offer.
• Best Alternative Wedding
Venue is Mountain View, Kilkenny
• Best Boutique Hotel Wedding Venue is Langton’s Hotel, Kilkenny
• Best Castle Wedding Wedding Venue is Cabra Castle, Cavan
• Best Ceremony Wedding
Venue is The Abbey, Kildare
• Best City Wedding Venue is The Dean, Galway
• Best Country House Wedding Venue is Fernhill House, Cork
• Best Cultural Wedding
Venue is MoLI, Museum of Literature Ireland, Dublin
• Best Exclusive Wedding
Venue is Temple House Estate, Sligo
• Best Festival Wedding Venue is Mountain View, Kilkenny
• Best Historic Wedding
Venue is Markree Castle, Sligo
• Best Intimate Wedding
Venue is The Wicklow Escape, Wicklow
• Best Large Hotel Wedding
Venue is Four Seasons Hotel, Spa & Leisure Club Carlingford, Louth
• Best Luxury Wedding Venue is No.25 Fitzwilliam Place, Dublin
• Best Outdoor Wedding
Venue is Ballintubbert Gardens & House, Laois
• Best Pet Friendly Wedding
Venue is Dylan Hotel, Dublin
• Best Restaurant Wedding
Venue is Marco Pierre White Courtyard Bar & Grill, Dublin
• Best Reviewed Wedding
Venue is The Abbey, Kildare
• Best Sustainable Wedding
Venue is Hotel Doolin, Clare
• Best Waterside Wedding
Venue is Jacks’ Coastguard Restaurant, Kerry
• Best Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly Wedding Venue is Fallon & Byrne, Dublin
well as customs formalities.
Mr Sefcovic told a press conference in Brussels that “intensive scoping” to find joint solutions was continuing.
“The commission and the UK government are working closely and constructively. Progress is being made but difficulties remain,” he said.
Pity Michael D wasn’t in the Aras when I was at school. A president who declares that homework should be banned would have been a hero not just at my school but among the entire nation. Teacher and columnist Jennifer Hogan started the ball rolling recently when she declared that there was no bene t in giving homework to primary school children. Michael D chimed in to agree, saying that homework should be banned outside school and that children should be freed up for more creative activities at home. (Wonder what he had in mind.)
en Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, joined in, sitting on the fence saying that he thought some children get too much homework. (Who was it that said that too much homework equals bad teaching?).
Homework policy is a matter for individual schools and it’s one of those thorny subjects, triangulated between teachers, parents and pupils, and bound to stir ongoing debate.
As a child I loathed homework that hung over me like a dark cloud at both primary and second level, especially at weekends. I wanted to be free after enduring a week of school where my resulting labours were, I imagined, an excuse for sadistic teachers to make red ink comments about my spelling (dire) and hand writing (illegible).
At home we weren’t allowed out to play until we had done our homework and, by that time in Belfast, it would inevitably have started raining. My sister, the biggest homework rebel, later changed her spots as a teacher.” Of course, it’s good
for children to learn independently of their teachers,” she now says.
Loathe it as a form of slave labour for children or endorse it, but is homework helpful to learning?
“We don’t have any sort of de nite evidence that there are clear bene ts to homework,” says Jennifer Horgan.
“In the past, I suppose, it made sense, because many families had one parent at home — and so you had somebody who could do it.” Maybe homework has become a hot topic just now given that more parents are returning to the o ce and no longer WFH.
At primary level, children are learning about learning and it’s easy to say that school work should stay in school, especially given how time-poor working parents can be. One bene t
of homework, though, is that it can help parents nd out how their child is progressing and help with learning di culties or raise the matter with the teacher or via the parent/teacher association.
I don’t buy Jennifer Horgan’s argument that no homework levels the playing eld for pupils. Some parents will always be more involved than others in their child’s development in areas from learning and use of educational toys to reading bedtime stories. A small amount of homework at primary level has the potential to help the parent child relationship, I believe. It can also encourage relations between parents and teachers especially if backed by good communication from the school about its approach to
children’s development and learning at di erent stages. But. please, please no homework at weekends, grownups get two days o to relax after the working week so why shouldn’t children?
Homework at secondary level is a di erent ball game, more at this stage about endorsing what has been learnt and about applying that knowledge. ere are studies which show the bene ts of homework in terms of better academic results and higher scores in exams.
Maybe homework is a hangover from the bad old days of pedagogic teaching. Should it really be necessary if schools encourage self-con dent children and where teaching inspires interest in subjects? at’s a big if though, given the challenges in secondary schools where a lot of teach-
ers’ time and energy is taken up with trying to maintain discipline.
Perhaps the argument should be amount of homework pupils get. An OECD study year of 15-year-old students shows Irish schoolgoers do an average of 7.3 hours of homework a week – well ahead of every single other country in the study, apart from Italy. ink about it, that almost the equivalent to a whole extra days’ work on top to the school schedule and the business of growing up through the turbulent teen years. Having just under three hours homework a week doesn’t seem to have done the Finns any harm.
Meantime I haven’t done my online French course or nished my project for painting class.
Old habits die hard...
for dryness and a dry cough but it is also great if you need something for a productive cough.
e cough season is not going away, it seems to be going on and on this year.
ere are lots of cough remedies available but not many for the younger child. ankfully there’s Otosan ForTuss for Dry and Productive Coughs. I talked about this one last year, and I didn’t think I would be talking about it again so soon. I love that it’s suitable from one year of age, right through to the oldest member of the family. It contains pure manuka honey, extracts of plantain, helichrysum and grindella. All working together to create a layer that adheres to the mucosa, protecting it from contact with external irritants. It also helps promote hydration and calms and soothes the mucosal tissue. I am prone to dry coughs and dry throat, I tried ForTuss and was delighted with it. It worked extremely well. I felt its soothing e ect immediately and it didn’t take too long at all to solve my problem. I needed it
e herb thyme was traditionally used to support the respiratory system, to alleviate coughs, and to relieve bronchial problems. Most of you will have thyme in your cupboard. You could use a little extra in cooking. You could try a cup of Salus yme Tea or for something stronger, Salus yme Juice. is is a potent way to take thyme as it is the juice freshly-squeezed from the
plant and nothing added. When you have a fresh juice like this the whole goodness of the plant is preserved. ese are an option if you are diabetic or vegan as there is no sugar or honey in the herbal juice or tea. You’ll nd herbal tinctures containing thyme like A.Vogel Ivy yme, this is suitable from 2 years of age, and helps alleviate coughing and other symptoms of acute bronchitis.
Another option from age 3 upwards is Irish Botanical Syrup which is traditionally used for chesty or dry coughs
To help support the immune system continue taking vitamin C, D, Zinc and Elderberry to support your respiratory system.
For more advice on how to alleviate coughs why not call in for a chat, we would love to help.
Shop online at www. naturalhealthstore. ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.
Another double child bene t payment has been raised as an option in early discussions on cost-of-living measures that the Government is set to announce in the next week or two. at said, senior coalition gures have cast doubt on the likelihood that a double payment of the €140 monthly allowance a child will form part of the package owing to its cost to the Exchequer of more than €170m. But it has not been entirely ruled out with one source speculating it could, if agreed, be paid out in May.
More than 638,000 families bene ted from a double payment of child bene t last November and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has placed child poverty at the centre of his focus by establishing a new Child Poverty and Wellbeing Unit in his department.
ose with knowledge of the measures being examined ahead of more detailed discussions in the coming days said the focus is likely to be on more targeted measures instead, as well as ensuring that not all cost-ofliving supports due to expire at the end of this month run out.
e Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS), the cut in Vat on hospitality, electricity and gas, as well as the reductions in excise duty on petrol and diesel, are all due to expire on February 28.
ere is consensus across the Coalition that TBESS should be extended and eligibility criteria changed after a lower than expected take-up.
e Sunday Independent reported last week that the current criteria, that businesses show a 50pc or more rise in the unit price of their electricity or gas, is likely to be reviewed and possibly lowered.
Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are also aligned on the need to maintain the cut in excise duty on petrol and diesel to avoid prices at the pump go-
ing back above €2 a litre. e two larger coalition parties are prepared to face down the Green Party whose leader Eamon Ryan, the Transport Minister, has repeatedly cast doubt on maintaining the reduction in excise on fossil fuels beyond February.
Mr Ryan’s Green Party deputy leader Catherine Martin, the Arts and Tourism Minister, has also made it clear she wants to retain the 9% Vat rate for the tourism and hospitality sector. But resistance to this proposal is growing across the Coalition.
Last week, Finance Minister Michael McGrath cast doubt on extending the reduced rate.
Like McGrath, several senior government gures point out privately that this has been a costly measure and a legacy from the Covid-19 pandemic when it was introduced as an emergency measure to boost a hospitality sector devastated by lockdowns. Nowadays ministers take a more dim view of the hotel sector in particular with Paschal Donohoe reported to have accused ho-
teliers of price gouging in a meeting last August.
e State has lost more than €900m in tax since the reduced rate was introduced in November 2020. Extending it for the rest of the year would likely cost around €400m. Suggestions that hotels could have their Vat rate restored to 13.5% while restaurants and bars are left at 9pc — a measure now possible under EU law — have been described as “not impossible but messier for Revenue”, by one senior source, who gave the example of a
hotel that o ers two nights’ stay and an evening meal.
“ ere is a question whether it’s actually needed — it was reduced for Covid,” said the same source. Department of Finance o cials are assessing whether there is economic merit to extending the reduced Vat rate beyond the end of this month.
Giving households another €200 energy credit before the summer has been ruled out but there are strong indications it will be considered again by the Coalition in the autumn when electricity
bills likely start to rise again. In the interim, the possibility of extending the fuel allowance season to help vulnerable households with energy costs beyond April 10 has also been raised. But all sources involved in these matters stressed yesterday that there has yet to be a substantive discussion on what to announce later this month. “ ere is no consensus really on what to do other than extending TBESS and not fully putting excise back up right now,” said one senior Government source.
Ireland will likely avoid recession this year, thanks to record household savings and the capacity for Government support created by the Budget surplus, according to Dermot O’Leary, chief economist at stockbrokers Goodbody.
In a report in Business Plus
Mr O’Leary forecasts that modi ed domestic demand, which measures growth in the economy exclusive of multinationals, will slow from 5.6% to 0.7% in 2023 and 2.3% in 2024.
Goodbody’s report said that recent job loss announcements at tech multinationals were a “concern” but added that only 3% of foreign direct investment companies based
in Ireland have been a ected to date.
It highlights the greater risk to the Irish economy as being falling pro ts at tech giants, and the knock-on eJect to corporation tax receipts, as opposed to layo s.
e report further warns that Government support will be needed to ensure housing completion numbers do not fall behind targets as forecast.
It estimates that some 28,373 residential units were completed last year, but forecasts that housing output will fall to 27,322 this year and 26,047 next year. Initiative Ireland reported that around 40,000 homes per year are required to meet demand.
e Central Bank’s decision to relax macroprudential lending rules and government supports for buyers will continue to support the market, but house price in ation is expected to slow from 8% to 3.2% year-onyear.
e report also states that mortgage lending volumes will plateau over the 2023/24. while consumer price in ation will slow to 5.6% this year and 2.8% next year.
Employment grew to 2.7m in the third quarter, boosted by the issuance of 35,000 work permits in 2022, up 125% from the previous year.
Goodbody expects wages to increase 4.5% this year.
Are you one of the 750,000 workers in Ireland that have yet to make some pension provision? If so you will be dependent on a State pension just over €260 a week when you retire. Unfortunately, if the State pension is going to be your only means of income you will see a huge reduction in your standard of living.
From experience many people are reluctant to start a pension. I have heard all manner of seemingly valid reasons and excuses, and that is what they are, excuses: my business will be my pension, I won’t see 65, can’t a ord it, one fella said as he took a long drag on his cigarette. I’m too young or I’ll start when I hit my 40s 50s etc and then the ultimate excuse of “sure it’s too late now to start”.
e Government is now planning to ‘help you’ by making it mandatory for you and your employer to
contribute towards your pension, and will in turn enhance the plan. Eventually when you start a new job or join the workforce for the rst time you will be automatically enrolled in to a pension. It is expected that the enrolment process will be up and running some time in 2024.
For every €3 that you save into the pension, the Government will add €1, within certain parameters. If you were to save €100 a month, the Government will add another €33. Contributions will be based on a percentage of salary, ranging in years one to three that will see 1.5% for employee and employer and 0.5% government contribution up to year 10 onwards a max of 6% each with Government contribution of 2%.
ere is salary cap of €80,000 after which the employer and State do not have to contribute. Employees can
decide over and above the set limits, but the employer won’t be required to match it and most importantly your old age pension will not be
a ected.Everyone from 23 to 60, and earning more than €20,000 a year, will automatically be auto enrolled when the y start a new job unless
they have their own pension or are entered into an employer’s scheme. Some people want the freedom to decide their own fate in life and will resent the State interfering in their life, nancial or otherwise. If that is the case there will be an opt-out clause — the ability to suspend contributions after six months. You will then have a two-year hiatus but in year three you will be automatically re-enrolled again. Again, if you wish, you can opt out. But, as with the inertia to start, the Government is assuming that once you start you will continue. A common question being asked is should I leave my occupational pension scheme and enter the new scheme considering the Government is going to contribute? In fact, the Government is already contributing to the vast majority of pension plans through quite generous tax reliefs.
You will need your nancial advisor to advice you here but let’s assume your salary is such that you pay tax at the marginal rate ie. 40%. is means the Government is already giving you back €40 on every €100 you save. So, if you switched you would only get €33 on every €100 invested. But if your salary is such that you are on the standard rate 20% then it may be sensible to change as the government contribution will be more generous. e scheme is being rolled out to “encourage those in lower-paid jobs because in this cohort the pension coverage is very small or nonexistent”. However, some in the Government are saying that a 2024 start date is “somewhat ambitious”. So its looks as if the scheme could be further delayed. We wait to see.
john@ellis nancial.ie 086 8362622
How many hours people sleep and when they go to bed could a ect their risk of dementia, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society.
Researchers from the UK, China, and Sweden found that sleep for more than eight hours increased dementia risk by 69%, while sleeping before 9 pm. rather than 10 pm. or later, increased dementia risk by 200%.
Furthermore, the study found that “cognitive function should be monitored in older adults who report prolonged time in bed and advanced sleep timing, especially in older males aged 60 to 74”.
Research in the future “may clarify whether moderately reducing [time in bed] and delaying sleep timing can help slow down cognitive decline and delay dementia onset in older adults,” wrote Dr. Rui Liu, the lead author of the study, from Shandong University’s Shandong Provincial Hospital in Jinan, China.
A total of 97 participants were diagnosed with dementia during an average followup period of 3.7 years out of 2,000 older adults in China who were free of dementia at the beginning of the study.
e researchers noted that the majority of studies on sleep and dementia have focused almost exclusively on white populations in North America and Europe.
e study noted that older Chinese citizens living in rural areas tend to go to bed earlier, wake up earlier, sleep less, and be more likely to develop dementia compared to Westerners and city dwellers, partly due to di erences in socioeconomic status, culture, education, and lifestyle.
To try to bridge the knowl-
1. Brainscape
Ages 12+ years, with some content for younger learners. Free; paid accounts starting at €19.99 a month with other plans available. Brainscape is an adaptive ashcard app and website that comes preloaded with excellent study sets for students. Professionals can nd study sets for passing standardised vocational exams, too. With a paid account, you can make your own custom study sets. ere’s a little content for younger students, such as sight reading cards, but Brainscape is ideally suited to learners 12 years and up.
2. CoolMath
Ages 13+ years. Free CoolMath is a free site that explains pre-algebra, algebra, and pre-calculus concepts in ways that students may not have encountered. By getting a fresh take on maths, students ages 13 and up have a great chance at getting many mathematical concepts to click.
edge gap, study participants were rural-dwelling, older adults, mostly low-income and with limited education, in western Shandong Province.
Scientists noted that sleep problems and cognitive decline are related to demographics, such as age, sex,
and education. In addition, short sleep duration is wellestablished as a genetic risk factor for dementia.
Associations of baseline sleep characteristics with MMSE score changes among participants who were free of dementia at follow-up, strati ed by baseline age
groups (60–74 vs. ≥75 years) and sex (n = 1845). Results were adjusted for age, sex, education, body mass index, alcohol consumption, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, coronary heart disease, stroke, APOE genotype, baseline MMSE score, and follow-up time.
3. Funbrain Ages 5–14. Free Funbrain is a site where students explore topics of interest through readings and interactive content, or play games to help them
understand math concepts. is site is better for engaging educational curiosity than it is for getting help with speci c subject matter. e games are hit or miss, with some su ering from poor
controls and o ering little educational value.
4. National Geographic Kids
Ages 5–16. Free e online, children’s ver-
e link between sleep problems and dementia has, however, been found to be inconsistent in populationbased studies, the researchers said.
According to the authors, the results should be interpreted with caution, due to the fact that sleep charac-
teristics were self-reported, that there were no data on factors such as sleep apnea, and there was a relatively short period of follow-up monitoring.
Good sleep habits (sometimes referred to as ‘sleep hygiene’) can help you get a good night’s sleep.
Some habits that can improve your sleep health: Be consistent. Go to bed at the same time each night and get up at the same time each morning, including on the weekends.
Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, relaxing, and at a comfortable temperature. Remove electronic devices, such as TVs, computers, and smart phones, from the bedroom.
Avoid large meals, ca eine, and alcohol before bedtime. Get some exercise. Being physically active during the day can help you fall asleep more easily at night.
*For more information on sleep eduction, check out the resources here: http:// www.sleepeducation. org/essentials-in-sleep/ healthy-sleep-habits
isn’t as interactive as some sites, but it’s a nice place to nd short articles related to timely topics, such as a kids- appropriate history of Juneteenth. With a name like National Geographic, however, it is very US-biased in what it covers and how.
5. PBS LearningMedia
sion of National Geographic gives young people educational articles, videos, and quizzes on a variety of topics, including animals, history, science, and space.
National Geographic Kids
Ages 5–17. Free PBSLearningMedia has a wealth of content that teachers can use, or that students who are old enough to use a computer unsupervised can independently explore. It has videos, as well as interactive lessons teaching art, social studies, health and physical education, science, math, engineering, and other subjects. For very young children, roughly ages two to ve, you can nd more age-appropriate shows and interactive content at PBSKids.
* e Kilkenny Observer does not necessarily endorse these websites
‘Short sleep duration is wellestablished as a genetic risk factor for dementia... demedementia
Lyrath Estate, on the doorstep of the medieval city of Kilkenny, is a tting destination to put a spring in your step! Located just ve minutes from the centre of Kilkenny City yet set on 170 acres of mature parkland complete with picturesque lakes, woodland trails and historic gardens. It’s hard to believe when surrounded by nature that the estate is so accessible to the city centre and its many cultural and historical attractions.
Now, with the arrival of spring, the estate is coming to life with signs of nature awakening everywhere.
Step into spring at Lyrath Estate with the ‘Stepping Into Spring’ package. is midweek experience includes two night’s accommodation with breakfast each morning, a delicious threecourse dinner in e Grill restaurant on one evening with a complimentary cream tea on a day of your choice. From €185 a person sharing midweek.
Lyrath Estate is a resort style property, independently owned hotel, which has been extensively refurbished over the years. At its heart is a charming 17th century Manor House which has been sympathetically restored and now sits comfortably alongside a contemporary hotel housing 141 bedrooms.
e property includes two restaurants: Yew which serves classic modern Irish and European cuisine, e Grill and Bar which is a casual, bistro style dining experience with a strong emphasis on steaks, gourmet burgers, delicious lobster fresh from the tank and a wonderful selection of cocktails. ere is also Tupper’s Bar, a traditional style, cosy bar, and e Conservatory which serves lunch and informal food in the evening. e newest addition is Lady Charlotte’s Drawing Room – an elegant room in the Manor House, where delightful afternoon tea is served. e décor here is inspired by the botanicals of the estate and has an eclectic and stylish design. If you wish to enjoy some pampering, be sure to visit Oasis Spa at Lyrath Estate which incorporates several treatment rooms, o ering face and body treatments for both men and women. e thermal suite in the spa includes various heating and cooling experiences and a stunning outdoor hydrotherapy pool with views over the mature, private gardens. On the estate, residents can enjoy walking amidst the private grounds, cycling on the verdant hidden trails or a host of outdoor pursuits including archery and falconry at the onsite Hawkeye School of Falconry where all kinds of birds of prey can be found including owls, hawks and even eagles.
Kilkenny City itself o ers lots of local attractions for the explorer such as the Kilkenny
Castle, Park & Gardens, St. Canice’s Cathedral, Butler Gallery, or you could step out on Ireland’s Medieval Mile and discover the rich history of Kilkenny.
For more information on spring o ers contact Lyrath Estate on (056) 7760088 or visit www.lyrath.com
Top 10 ings to do this spring in Kilkenny
1. Hawkeye School of Falconry at Lyrath Estate
Meet John & Caroline, Lyrath Estate Falconers, and owners of the Hawkeye School of Falconry. is small family run centre provides a range of memorable falconry experiences, including Hawk Walks (by appointment only). e Falconry School is situated on the beautiful
Lyrath Estate in the historic medieval city of Kilkenny.
2. Kilkenny Castle
Founded soon after the Norman conquest of Ireland, Kilkenny Castle has been rebuilt, extended, and adapted to suit changing circumstances and uses over a period of 800 years. Today, Kilkenny Castle is open to visitors all year round and is largely a Victorian remodelling of the thirteenth century defensive Castle.
3. Smithwick’s Experience Located in the heart of Kilkenny city, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is a multi-sensory experience that immerses the visitor in the history of Ireland’s oldest ale. Harvested from the land, seasoned by
history, Smithwick’s has been brewed in Ireland since 1710. Visitors can taste the famous Smithwick’s Ale, while one of their guides explains what makes it so unique.
4. St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower
St Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower are an essential part of the structural heritage in the vibrant medieval city of Kilkenny. is ecclesiastical site was founded in the 6th century and named after St Canice. Cill Chainnigh is the Gaelic for the Church of Canice, the church that originally stood on the site in the 6th century. e Round Tower is the oldest standing structure in Kilkenny City. Tourists can enjoy climbing the Round Tower capturing great views of the city
(weather permitting).
5. e Medieval Mile Museum
Located on the 13th century site of St. Mary’s cruciform church and graveyard. As the starting point of the ‘Medieval Mile’ trail, it brings to life Kilkenny’s history as Ireland’s premier medieval city. Displays of Kilkenny’s civic treasures and replicas of some of the High Crosses of Ossory illustrate the local Gaelic monastic heritage and the ancient city’s historic role in Ireland.
6. Jerpoint Park
Immerse yourself in a unique experience of heritage and culture in a very special destination omastown in Kilkenny. Unearth the history of Jerpoint Park with a guided tour of the footprints of a deserted 12th century medieval town.
7. Rothe House and Gardens
A magni cent 17th century Irish merchant’s townhouse and garden in the centre of Kilkenny city. e house is open as a museum with artefacts collected by Kilkenny Archaeological Society and feature a splendid garden which has been restored as a 17th century urban garden. Step back in time and see, smell
and taste what the Rothe family experienced.
8. Dunmore Caves
Just 15 minutes from Kilkenny, Dunmore Caves are an awesome sight if you’re looking for o -the-beatenpath activities in Ireland. e caves once bore witness to a brutal 10th-century Viking massacre and legend claims that up to 1,000 people may have been killed,supported by the discovery of human remains and Viking coins.
9. Kilfane Waterfall and Glen
A pristine example of a romantic era garden dating from the 1790s. Untouched for 200 years, it is a picturesque paradise with a waterfall tumbling its way to a rushing stream and woodland paths. Tiny bridges sit among ancient trees, wild foxgloves, ferns, and other historically correct 18th century planting.
10. Go With the Flow
Go with the Flow is a family business based in Kilkenny providing water-based adventures like white water trips and nature/history tours. All the incredible trails are guided by quali ed, experienced, and friendly instructors.
Valentine’s Day is upon us and love is in the air. And it’s the best place for it. Keep it up there in the ether because it only causes problems on planet earth, not least planet Hollywood. Consider: Johnny Depp & Amber Heard, Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie, Tom Cruise & Nicole Kidman, Seán Penn & Madonna, Elvis & Priscilla, Bruce Willis & Demi Moore to mention but a few.
And then, of course, there’s Adam and Eve who couldn’t behave themselves in the Garden of Eden, got turfed out and landed us where we are today. Okay so they never divorced but then again they never married. And we all know it wasn’t the apple on the tree that caused all the bother but the pair on the ground!
Ah but let me not be pessimistic about of all things love, God knows there’s enough doom and gloom around
without lambasting love. Here are some Hollywood couples whose love did triumph and survive: Mr & Mrs. Charles Heston, married over 55 years, Mr & Mrs. Richard Attenborough married over 55 years also, Mr & Mrs. James Cagney, married 63 years, and Mr and Mrs. Bob Hope, married over 66 years.
Not sure if any of you has a definition for love but let me share the thoughts of some four to eight-year-olds when asked the question: “What does love mean?” I love their answers which are touching,
funny and dare I say even profound. What’s this they say? Out of the mouths of babes...
“When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn’t bend over and paint her toenails anymore. So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That’s love.”
Rebecca (8) ******
“Love is when a girl puts on perfume and a boy puts on after shaving and they go out and smell each other.” Karl (5) *****
“Love is when you go out to
eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs.” Chrissy (6) ******
“Love is what makes you smile when you’re tired.” Terri (4) ******
“Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK.” Danny (7) ******
“Love is when you kiss all the time. Then when you get tired of kissing, you still want to be together and you talk more. My Mommy and Daddy are like that.”
Emily 7 ******
“Love is what’s in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen.” Bobby (8) ******
“Love is when you tell a guy
you like his shirt, then he wears it every day.” Noelle (7) ******
“Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so long.” Tommy (7) ******
“Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken.” Elaine (5) ******
“Love is when Mommy sees Daddy all smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Robert Redford.” Chris (6) ******
“Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.” Mary Anne (4) ******
“When you love somebody, your eyelashes go up and down and little stars come out of your eyes.”
Karen (7)
******
“You really shouldn’t say ‘I love you’ unless you mean it. But if you mean it, you should say it a lot. People forget.”
Jessica (8) ******
Penultimately, this one brought a tear to my eye: fiveyear-old Jason’s elderly next door neighbour had recently lost his wife. Seeing the old gentleman cry, Jason went into the old man’s garden, climbed onto his lap and just sat there. When his mother asked him what he had said to the old man, the little boy said: “Nothing, I just helped him cry.”
******
Finally, I’ll leave the last word on love, not to a child, but to the philosopher Erich Fromm: “Love is the only sane and satisfactory answer to the problem of human existence.” Love it.
took over responsibility for Wood sales in Northern Ireland (UK) from Winzer Würth Limited. Whilst in 1993 the remaining business for Automotive was transferred from Würth UK Limited, the Metal Divison was started in 1992 with two sales respresentatives. In 1995 the company purchased three acres of adjoining land and built a new o ce complex of 900 sq. m. It also doubled the size of its previous warehouse. In February 1996, this new o ce and warehouse complex was o cially opened by Mrs. Carmen
WürthWürth Ireland was founded in 1982 and started its operations in a small rented warehouse on Ballysimon Road, not far from the present site. Mr. Martin Valk was the rst Managing
Director and the company’s rst salesman. Initially the company focused on the Automotive sector and the Wood Division was established in 1985.
In 1986, the company moved from its rented accommodation
to its newly purchased site. By now the company had grown to 29 employees, of which 15 were sales representatives. At the end of the year Würth Ireland had exceeded 1.0 million in sales turnover. In 1992, Würth Ireland
Continued growth throughout the nineties and into the new millennium has made Würth Ireland one of the top 1000 companies in the country.
Würth Ireland continues to operate in the elds of Automotive, Wood, Metal and Construction o ering a range of 8,000 articles direct from the logistics centre in Limerick whilst o ering the complete Würth range of articles through direct shipment from Germany.
e continued expansion led the company to open 10 shops throughout Ireland, of which 3 are based in the capital city of Dublin.
Our sta members are our key asset and the company therefore tried to make the working environment a vibrant, e cient and enjoyable place to work and grow. With the right people and the right attitude alongside our brand, quality, service and professionalism, Würth Ireland will continue to grow and become the market leader in assembly products.
We in Würth Ireland are delighted to open our brandnew store in Kilkenny, we have been present in Kilkenny for several years now and built a lot of strong relationships with our customers. We look forward to strengthening these relationships and meeting new customers into the future through our shop, sales representatives and our online shop.
Würth Ireland is part of the Würth Group is the world market leader in the development,manufacture and sale of assembly and fastening materials. It currently consists of over 400 companies in more than 80 countries and employs over 85,000 people. Our core ranges are screws, screw accessories and anchors to tools, chemical-technical products and occupational safety (PPE and
workwear). Servicing the elds of Automotive, Wood, Metal and Construction industries in Ireland. Wurth Ireland o er a range of 8,000 products from of logistics centre in Limerick whist o ering the complete Wurth range of over 120,000 through direct shipment from Germany. We currently have a shop network of 19 shops, which can be found in the major cities and townsacross the island of Ireland. We plan to continue to grow our shop network to 24 in 2023 in order to service our customers better locally across Ireland. We have our team of sales representatives and our online shop to complement our shop network, to make it as easy as possible for our customers to be serviced whatever way suits their needs. Will look forward to welcoming new and existing customer to our new Kilkenny shop.
You can contact Ben in store on +353 56 449 2351 or email wurthkilkenny@wuerth.ie
Up to 24,400 emergency personnel are now on the ground inTurkey/Syria, including a team from Russia. And more are expected, but quake-hit airport infrastructure is delaying e orts, e number of dead is more than 17,000 at time of writing but that number is expected to climb into the late 20,000s, according NGOs on the ground.
irty-six hours after the rst earthquake hit — at 7.8, with a depth of 18 kilometres (11 miles) and another quake, likely triggered by the rst, struck more than 100 kilometres away with a 7.5 magnitude — rescuers doubled up e orts to nd survivors in the rubble of thousands of buildings brought down by the earthquakes and multiple aftershocks that struck eastern Turkey and neighbouring Syria, with the discovery of more bodies raising the death toll.
Countries around the world dispatched teams to assist in the rescue e orts, and Turkey’s disaster management agency said more than 24,400 emergency personnel were now on the ground. But with such a wide swath of territory hit and nearly 6,000 buildings con rmed to have collapsed in Turkey alone, their e orts were spread thin.
Attempts to reach survivors were also impeded by temperatures below freezing and close to 200 aftershocks, which made the search through unstable structures perilous.
Nurgul Atay told e Associated Press she could hear her mother’s voice beneath the rubble of a collapsed building in the city of Antakya, the capital of Hatay province, but that her and others e orts to get into the ruins had been futile without any rescue crews and heavy equipment to help.
“If only we could lift the concrete slab we’d be able to reach her,” she said. “My mother is 70-years-old, she won’t be able to withstand this for long.”
Across Hatay province, just southwest of the earthquake’s epicentre, o cials say as many as 1,500 buildings were destroyed and many people reported relatives being trapped under the rubble with no aid or rescue teams arriving.
called President Erdo an to express condolences and o er assistance to the NATO ally.
e White House said it was sending search-and-rescue teams to support Turkey’s efforts.
e quake piled more misery on a region that has seen tremendous su ering over the past decade. On the Syrian side, the a ected area is divided between governmentcontrolled territory and the country’s last opposition-held enclave, which is surrounded by Russian-backed government forces. Turkey is home to millions of refugees from the Syrian civil war.
In the rebel-held enclave, hundreds of families remained trapped in rubble, the opposition emergency organisation known as the White Helmets said in a statement. e area is packed with some four million people displaced from other parts of the country by the war. Many live in buildings that were already damaged by military bombardments.
Strained medical centres quickly lled with injured people, rescue workers said. Some facilities had to be emptied, including a maternity hospital, according to the SAMS medical organisation.
More than 8,800 people were rescued across 10 provinces, according to Orhan Tatar, an o cial with Turkey’s disaster management authority.
In areas where teams worked, occasional cheers broke out through the night as survivors were brought out of the rubble.
e quake, which was centred in Turkey’s southeastern province of Kahramanmaras, sent residents of Damascus and Beirut rushing into the street and was felt as far away as Cairo.
Sebastien Gay, the head of mission in Syria for Doctors Without Borders, said health facilities in northern Syria were overwhelmed with medical personnel working around “around the clock to respond to the huge numbers of wounded”.
A woman reacts as emergency personnel carry out a
In Turkey’s Hatay province, thousands of people sheltered
in sports centres or fair halls, while others spent the night outside, huddled in blankets around res.
Turkey has large numbers of troops in the border region with Syria and has tasked the military to aid in the rescue e orts, including setting up tents for the homeless and a eld hospital in Hatay province. Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said a humanitarian aid brigade based in Ankara and eight military search and rescue teams had also been deployed.
A navy ship is now docked at the province’s port of Iskenderun, where a hospital collapsed, to transport survivors in need of medical care to the nearby city of Mersin. ick, black smoke rose from another area of the port, where
re ghters have not yet been able to douse a re that broke out among shipping containers that were toppled by the earthquake.
In the Turkish city of Gaziantep, a provincial capital about 33 kilometres (20 miles) from the epicentre, people took refuge in shopping malls, stadiums, mosques and community centres.
In the Syria’s rebel-held northwest, the opposition’s Syrian Civil Defence, or White Helmets, the paramedic group leading rescue operations, said they feared the number of fatalities were escaping fast.
Authorities fear the death toll would keep climbing as the rescuers look for survivors among tangles of metal and concrete spread across the region beset by Syria’s 12-year
civil war and refugee crisis.
In the latest pledges of international help, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said he was preparing to swiftly dispatch a 60-person search and rescue team as well as medical supplies and 50 soldiers.
Pakistan’s government sent a ight carrying relief supplies and a 50-member search and rescue team, and said there are now daily aid ights to Syria and Turkey. India said it would send two search and rescue teams, including specially trained dogs and medical personnel.
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was expected to travel to Ankara to express his condolences and solidarity, according to a statement from Islamabad.
US President Joe Bidene region sits on top of major fault lines and is frequently shaken by earthquakes. Some 18,000 were killed in similarly powerful earthquakes that hit northwest Turkey in 1999.
e US Geological Survey measured Monday’s quake at 7.8, with a depth of 18 kilometres (11 miles). Hours later, another quake, likely triggered by the rst, struck more than 100 kilometres (60 miles) away with 7.5 magnitude.
e second jolt caused a multi-story apartment building in the Turkish city of Sanliurfa to topple onto the street in a cloud of dust as bystanders screamed, according to video of the scene.
ousands of buildings were reported collapsed in a wide area extending from Syria’s main city.
Looking out from the historic Gorodetsky House in a central Kyiv now populated with sandbags and heavy armory, Volodymyr Zelenskyy had one big ask for his guests on ursday: Take Ukraine’s wish to enter the EU seriously.
Zelenskyy welcomed European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to a heavily forti ed compound in the heart of Kyiv as part of a day-long series of meetings between the Zelenskyy government and EU o cials, during a visit rich with symbolism.
ough it was European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s fourth
visit to Ukraine since Russia launched its invasion nearly a year ago, it was the rst where she was joined by a gaggle of EU commissioners, the ofcials tasked with overseeing the bloc’s major initiatives.
e gathering also took place on the eve of the highstakes EU-Ukraine summit, where von der Leyen was joined by European Council chief Charles Michel. It’s the rst time an EU event of this kind took place in an active war zone.
Zelenskyy and von der Leyen presented a united front as they stood side by side in front of a row of Ukrainian and EU ags.
Zelenskyy’s message was unequivocal: Ukraine’s future lies with Europe. And as the Ukrainian leader made the case for Ukraine’s EU membership, he argued that Ukraine was not only defending itself.
“It is a motivation to defend our state, rst of all, and consequently the entire Europe against the biggest anti-European force in the world,” he told the room of journalists.
“It is really important for our people.”
Casting accession to the EU as “the next logical step” for EU-Ukraine relations, he said it was important “not only to have victories in the battle-
eld,” but also to believe in a peaceful Europe.
And he also injected a new sense of urgency into his plea, noting that Russia is now “concentrating forces and getting ready to take revenge, not only against Ukraine but also against free Europe.”
EU member states agreed to grant EU candidate status to Ukraine in June — itself a record, as it scrambled to respond to Kyiv’s request, lodged within days of Russia’s invasion.
At the same time, the 27 EU countries had to keep in mind how some of its other neighbours have been waiting in the wings for years to join the
bloc, as well as ensuring that EU enlargement — a process that typically takes years — continues to follow proper checks and balances.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal earlier told reporters that he envisions a two-year timeframe for Ukraine joining the Union, and he doubled down on this bold timetable at an evening Press conference with von der Leyen.
“During this year, we have an ambition to have all the steps regarding the negotiations kick o ,” he said, underlining a need to move “very rapidly.”
Overwhelming pro-EU
sentiment was on display throughout the capital, where EU ags and symbols adorned some buildings ahead of Friday’s summit.
Ukraine must seize the opportunity and capitalise on that sentiment, Shmyhal argued.
“ ere is unity among society, among politicians, that allows us to pass the required legislation and government acts as soon as possible,” he said, referring to the seven prerequisite steps the Commission has outlined for accession talks to begin in earnest. ese include cleaning up the country’s corruption problems.
Turning now to the great oods that have struck Kilkenny over the centuries: In part one I reproduce here the text of a captivating letter received by a young woman in Dublin from her merchant father in Kilkenny:
Abbeyvale, Oct 5th 1763
Miss Kitt Coles, C/O
Mr. Christopher James, Merchant
In Earl Street, Dublin
Dear Kitt, I write to satisfy you and Hannah and all friends in Dublin that I and all my family are alive and safe after the most exorbitant ood that ever was known or heard of in this river, which happened the 2nd inst: You may judge of it when I tell you it was within one inch of the oor of the room I lie in and up to the ceiling of the parlour. It has swept away entirely John’s Bridge and Green’s Bridge in Kilkenny, Benetts Bridge, omastown Bridge and half the town and many
of the inhabitants; Durrow Bridge, Callan Bridge, Kellsbridge, Ennisnag Bridge; And Gary Du Bridge.
One side of Ennisteige Bridge stands yet, so as to be passable for foot people. e only bridges standing on the Nore from Abbeyleix to the sea is Ballyragget, Lord Carrick’s new bridge which he built at his own expense opposite his house.
Dining Bridge stands, but Castlecomer Bridge is down. Most heartily thank God I have su ered less at this place than any other person on the river. How the weir of these mills will stand I know not, nor how the Marble Mills stand I know not as all
have sustained had she been here; the canal has escaped most wonderfully, with only a few breaches in the banks all which will be easily repaired. All the locks and gates being safe though the water was over the tops of the swing beams and consequently six feet above the stonework of the locks. Many persons who were on John’s Bridge when it was swept away are drowned and several in other places, the melancholy particulars not yet known.
My wife was most luckily in Kilkenny at Smyth’s child’s christening, by which she escaped the fright she must
communication across the river is cut o as yet.
How Dublin has fared and whether violent rain extended thither I long to know.
What will be the e ects of this
ood on our inland commerce I can form no judgement as yet. Let me hear from you as soon as possible if the ood has been in all parts of the Kingdom equal as here. It is impossible the bridges can be built by the Counties without the aid of Parliament and in my own mind I much question whether the great sum of money which will be demanded on this occasion will not put a stop to all navigation and other public works and make the Parliament deaf to all applications for private encouragement.
I shall take the sense of my friends both in and out of Parliament on this head and act as I shall be advised. Let me know your opinion and my brother Barry’s. My our mills have su ered no damage and I had only ve sacks of our wetted and of these not above the quantity of one sack was wet when unpacked, and that has made good bread…Great number of mills are entirely swept away, and more rendered useless for a considerable time…
Your a ectionate and loving father, William Coles.
(To be continued...)
For the sixth year running, Clean Coasts are asking people around Ireland to #BreakUpWithPlastic this Valentine’s Day and switch to sustainable, reusable alternatives. is year, the focus is on the bathroom and the ink Before You Flush campaign, which is operated by Clean Coasts in partnership with Uisce Éireann.
e ink Before You Flush campaign highlights the issue of ushing unsuitable items down the toilet and the consequences of doing so, Such consequences include blockages in our wastewater network and treatment plants; surface water overows; and sewage related litter in our rivers, on our beaches and in our oceans,
Up to 50% of Leaving Cert students go straight to college on a CAO-listed course, according to new research, while almost half of school-leavers pursue other education and training routes.
Information from the centralised college applications agency shows that about 56% of Leaving Cert candidates in any year accept a CAO o er.
ere is entry to higher education on courses outside the CAO, but the numbers involved are small when compared with the CAO, which had 49,466 acceptances in 2022.
Of the 61,107 Leaving Cert 2022 candidates, 34,299 started on a CAO course in the autumn.
A CAO breakdown of acceptance in the years 20142022, provided to the Irish Independent, shows a consistent pattern of around 56% of Leaving Cert applicants accepting an o er.
Many more Leaving Cert students apply to the CAO, usually around 75-80%. Last year 48,651 CAO applicants were Leaving Cert candidates, so about 14,000 of those did not end up on a CAO course. Another 13,000 sixth-years didn’t apply.
Some applicants may have changed their mind, others may have been ineligible for an
and causing damage to our marine environment. Did you know that items ushed down the toilet, other than the ree Ps (pee, poo and paper), can make their way to our rivers and oceans? Research has found that one in ve adults (21%) in Ireland regularly admits to ushing items down the toilet that contain plastic and are known
to cause blockages. ese items such as wipes, cotton bud sticks and dental oss can cause detrimental e ects on wastewater treatment plants and networks, impacting river and marine environments. Ireland has some of the most diverse and spectacular coastlines in the world. However, our excessive use of plastic is polluting our oceans and it
is having impacts on our waterways and threatening our marine wildlife and people’s health. Statistics show that Ireland is the number one plastic waste producer in the European Union, with 65kg of plastic waste per person produced each year, as well as being the country with the fth lowest recycling rate.
e initiative aims to raise
awareness of the impact of plastic pollution on our planet and marine environment by asking people to stop opting for single-use plastic.
*Join the campaign on social media @CleanCoasts and at www.cleancoasts.org. Learn more about the ink Before You Flush campaign at https://thinkbeforeyouush.org/
o er, such as because they did not meet the subject and grade requirements, while others may have received an o er but did not accept it.
e drive for Leaving Cert grades/CAO points is blamed for fuelling unacceptable stress levels among students and overshadowing the needs of those who are better suited to other post-school options.
ere are changes planned, with a greater focus on apprenticeships as well as a new initiative that will allow students to start a degree programme in a college of further education, where CAO points will not be used in the selection process. Already every year, thousands of Leaving Cert students delay their entry to higher education, many because they are squeezed out of a college place because they didn’t achieve the necessary points.
Some move straight to a postLeaving Cert (PLC) programme in a college of further education and subsequently use that as a basis for applying to the CAO. Others put o applying to the CAO for another reason, such as working or travel.
According to the CAO breakdown, last year shows a total of 11,847 applicants used a Leaving Cert other than from 2022 for the purpose of their application.
e Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has advised that a precautionary extended food recall is underway by Western Brand of a number of speci c raw chicken products due to the possible presence of Salmonella.
is recall is linked to the ongoing investigation by the Department of Agriculture, Food
Fancy showing o your GAA skills online and raising money for a great cause at the same time? en sign up for the ‘Kilkenny to Kampala #K2KGAAChallenge’. Take a video of your best GAA skill, donate to the campaign, post your video online and challenge your friends to do the same using the hashtag #K2KGAAChallenge.
and the Marine into incidences of Salmonella infection in a number of broiler ocks.
To date, there have been no con rmed cases of human illness linked to this investigation. e FSAI is warning consumers who may have the affected chicken products at home not to eat them.
All the money raised will go towards equipment and meals after training for children in the new Kampala GAA Club in Uganda. Some days ago, Kilkenny stars Aidan Fogarty and Aoife Prendergast along with local children kickstarted the Newpark Hotel Kilkenny to Kampala fundraiser in Nolan Park, they created short videos of
them demonstrate their favourite GAA skills, shared it on their social media channels and challenged their friends, families, teammates and even rivals to do that same. ey want you to do the same.
e fundraiser hopes to use the power of social media to reach their fundraising target but also hopes it will create a collection of GAA skills video that can be shared with the kids in Kampala to help their training and to inspire them to learn new skills. e videos will make a genuine heartfelt connection between Ireland and Uganda.
e Newpark Hotel Kilkenny to Kampala fundraiser aims to raise at least €20,000 to ensure that
Uganda GAA can continue to provide GAA equipment and dinner for each child after training, with proceeds also going towards securing nal payment for three acres of land for a GAA training pitch and clubhouse on the outskirts of Kampala.
Upon completion, this pitch will be the rst fullsize GAA pitch on the African continent and the highest altitude GAA pitch in the world, constructed on the banks of Lake Victoria. e club’s long-term goal is to incorporate the great community spirit that runs through every GAA club, and to establish a sustainable Ugandan GAA Club that will nurture a love of Gaelic Games and provide a safe and healthy
environment for thousands of Ugandan children long into the future.
A signi cant part of the clubhouse will be a kitchen where meals will be cooked for every training session, taking pressure from parents who struggle to meet school fees and putting food on the table by allowing their children time to be a child and have fun playing sports.
*Anyone who wants to get involved is encouraged showcase their GAA skills in a short video clip online nominate. three people to undertake the challenge & tagging @NewparkHotel and using the hashtag #K2KGAAChallenge.To donate see idonate. ie/cause/NewparkKilkennyGAAUgandaFundraiser.
Students and teachers from Kilkenny City Vocational School were delighted to attend a Mayoral Reception in their honour in Kilkenny Town Hall on Tuesday in recognition of the Senior Boys’ and Senior Girls’ All-Ireland volleyball success.
Mayor David Fitzgerald welcomed the students and teachers to the Mayors chambers and said it was a great occasion for him whenever young people at-
tended the historic building.
Joining the Mayor were fellow councillors Martin Brett and Andrew McGuinness.
e teams were congratulated on their amazing achievements in the school’s rst entry into the senior AllIreland volleyball championships. Girl’s team captain Sara Khaldi was presented with a copy of the book “Treasures of Kilkenny” as a gift to the school from Mayor David Fitzgerald to mark the occasion.
e teams were praised particularly for their hard work and dedication in a minority
sport as well as the inclusiveness of the teams in which Irish, Italian, Ukrainian, Spanish, German and French students played side by side in training and in matches.
Coach Debbie O’Connor spoke at the reception about how the team developed strong bonds and friendships, which she said was a joy to see as it unfolded.
e team brought two AllIreland volleyball trophies home to the very proud Kilkenny City Vocational School community from the National Indoor Arena in Blanchardstown.
“That ugly incident put me ‘on the watch.’ It wasn’t his field, and nowhere near where he had any business to be. The only consolation was that no real harm was done: maybe it was, in fact, a timely early warning. A sign that trouble was coming –and maybe not many seasons away.
“Since then, he’s stared me out, whenever I met him on the lane, or anywhere. But I’ve made sure never to be on my own, away from the house. Not easy, betimes. I’d follow creamery cars into Dungratton, and follow them back, most times getting a lift in them. Good creamery boys, they never blackguarded me.
“I also know Dacent’s
been slingeing around outside the house some nights - I spotted him between the trees, against the back-glow of the moon, two nights on the run, the other week. I said nothing about it, not wanting to worry you. I never thought our Maker would let this happen to us, today of all days –All Souls Day!
Let’s hope He Above, or our dear Mammy, haven’t forgotten about us altogether! Janie Mac: It’s a faint hope, B, but better than none… “I’m older than you, Babsie – and I’m not a woman yet, not by any means. But I know what that Dacent’s after. Mammy told me a few things to watch out for, told me to pass the knowledge on to you, when you’d be leaving childhood behind. Which time the poor craythur knew she would never see… “Now’s not the time for that, any of that, though. Now’s the time for me to look ahead - for both of us. “Things have
happened so fast tonight - trouble is surely upon us. I thought we’d have a good while to make preparations - a few months at least. Instead, it’s now down to hours and minutes. Lucky I made a few small plans… But not near enough … “That dangerous talk about ‘marriage banns’ that we heard below in the kitchen tonight –that’s a poke with a sharp stick, for sure. If we do nothing, if we just wait, I’ll be dragged off to his place, and you’ll be left to God knows what kind of life.
“It’s no use me saying “no” to a marriage. You don’t know what happened down in Dungratton to that Lucy Watkins – when she refused a mademarriage. The priest and the doctor got her certified - and ‘committed’ – that’s what. An old and vicious trick, to get at her, and her few inherited acres “After a year in the asylum, she sent out a
message saying she’d marry the fellow who wanted her. They got her out quick enough then. {No longer – by some miracle – ‘insane.’}
“But the morning of her wedding day, her room was empty. She couldn’t go through with it. She was found below Dungratton Bridge. There was a note left on the parapet. But the lousers concerned in the rotten affair made sure the contents were never disclosed. Were they ashamed? Certainly not - they just wanted to dodge blame. “Another sin on the soul of that bad girl,” the saggarth raged off the pulpit, the next Sunday. And nobody there with the courage to break his face with a clatter. All the brave men’d fight the British – but they wouldn’t stand up for their own little girls. God’s curse on them, anyway – they were no better than that bloody oul fella roaring at them.
“You wouldn’t have heard about that, Babsie; there was no point in troubling your little life with it. But tonight you have a lot of growing up to do – and not much time to do it in.
“I want you to be brave
like Granuaile – you remember that little picture I found in an old book? You loved seeing our great Pirate Queen laying down the law to English Queen Lizzie! That’s who you’ll have to be this night – ‘Babsie O’Malley!’ “Because I don’t know – I can’t guess - what danger lies before us, or what might befall us - even if we move fast and clever.
“But I know fine well what awaits us, if we don’t…”
“I have one other thing to mention, Babsie. Whatever father thinks, I’m certainly not waiting around to be mauled by the paws of that Paudhaun yoke downstairs. It’d be no use me going to the canon about it; he’d just laugh at me. Maybe give me a box in the mouth, or dish out what poor Lucy Walkins got – committed to an asylum, with the help of some lickspittle doctor. Not many bad medical lads, but the odd one… “Paudhaun’s mammy could fix up these creatures for any kind of blackguarding. A few trams of hay – maybe a bullock or two: that’d do the trick, easy. We have a no-good saggarth, not
a bit like Simon Flynn’s decent old PP.
“There we were, Babsie, just a couple of hours ago – and we giggling about leprechauns, banshees – and other frightful monsters of the dark, like the horrid ‘Tub O’ Guts’. And then into the house walks a real live monster… “He’d put the old ‘Tub’ to shame! {The Tub O’ Guts being only a nocturnal local ghost, manifesting himself as a bucketul of snakey-gutsy-green intestinal ordure….} “This Dacent can do more harm than a dozen Tubs!
“Cripes, I didn’t see trouble coming, not this quick! I know I repeat myself, saying that, but it’s like someone shot me, the way I feel, with the speed of horrible events. I can’t get used to it, but it’s no use moaning about it now.
“This night is going to change our lives, Babs, for better, or worse……. To be continued… Ned E.
Disclaimer
e opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not re ect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of e Kilkenny Observer.
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Available nationwide at leading stockists in cluding Connolly’s Red Mills.
Following the wonderful and amazing success of yestes Day where 12,500 spectators were in attendance, attention has now turned to Connolly’s Red Mills Day on Saturday 18th February in Gowran Park where even bigger numbers are expected on another major race day at the Local Track.
For the Second consecutive year, Connolly’s have generously sponsored the day with Free Admission for all spectators, and at time of writing a Second batch of Tickets has been completely sold out with more Tickets possibly distributed ahead of next weeks meeting.
Champion Trainer Willie Mullins will go into e Red Mills Meetings on a high after having won e yestes Chase for a 9th time, when Carefully Selected under e stewardship of Champion Jockey Paul Townend prevailed in a thrilling photo nish.
Two days later in Fairyhouse, Willie trained the 4000th winner of an incredible career and with Cheltenham just over a month away, he holds a lot of the aces in several of the feature races. He has a terri c record in the featured Red Mills Races
having won both the Red Mills Hurdle and Red Mills Chase on 6 occasions. His rst winner of e Red Mills Hurdle was Balla Sola
in 2000 with Conor O’Dwyer on board, while further victories came courtesy of Zaidpour(2012), So Young (2013), 10 times Grade 1 winner Un
De Sceaux(2014), Sempre Medici (2016) and Cilaos Emery(2020). Mickos Dream provided e Champion Trainer with
the rst of his half dozen Red Mills Chase Triumphs in 2000 as he completed e yestes Chase/Red Mills Chase dou ble & further victories cour
tesy of J’y Vole(2010), Twice Cheltenham Festival winner Champagne Fever(2015), Ballycasey(2017), Bachasson(2021) and Melon(2022). Willie is more than likely to have strong fancies in both feature races next weekend, and could Twice Ryanair Chase winner Allaho possibly and belatedly make his seasonal debut having picked up an injury earlier in the season?
Also, don’t rule out Klassical Dream, Saldier and Sharjah among the entries for e Red Mills Hurdle.
Looking back on the 40 plus years of Red Mills Day, the two featured races have produced an illustrious roll known horses who have won e Red Mills Hurdle has Danoli(1996) who won at the Cheltenham Festival in 1994 and twice won the Aintree Hurdle Winner in 1994 and 1995, while also memorably won e Hen-
of honour with many well plenty of major races. been won by the iconic Hen nessy Gold Cup in Leopardstown back in 1997.
Champion Hurdle Winner Hardy Eustace(2005), ree Times Grade 1 winning Hurdle and Champion RunnerUp Macs Joy(2006), Queen Mother Champion Chase winner Newmill(2007), World Hurdle winner Solwhit(2009) and the afore mentioned 10 times Grade 1 winner Un De Sceaux(2014).
Last years race was very impressively won by e Gordon Elliott Trained Teahupoo with the now retired Robbie Power on board who this season ended the unbeaten run of the Brilliant Mare and Twice Champion Hurdle winner Honeysuckle in e Hattons Grace Hurdle in Fairyhouse, while at e yestes Meeting he was a most impressive winner of e Galmoy Hurdle.
Teahupoo now heads the market at 3/1 for e World Hurdle on ursday 16th March.
Meanwhile, e Red Mills Chase has been won by yestes Chase winners like Nua e(1997) along with Bob Treacy who won both e yestes Chase and e Red Mills Chase in 1999 and 2001.
ing nishes came about in 2018 when 2017 Irish Grand National winner Our Duke prevailed narrowly Twice Cheltenham Festival winner Presenting Percy who also won e Galmoy Hurdle in Gowran Park on yestes Day in 2018 & 2019, while last years race was won by now retired Melon trained by Willie Mullins.
Unsurprisingly, Connolly’s Red Mills in Goresbridge employ or have employed several people from Gowran and Neighbouring Parishes throughout the year, among them Podge Gill who had great success as a Jockey that included victories in the yestes Chase and Galway Plate among others. Indeed, his 1988 Galway Plate win was very special as he was aboard A ord a King for his neighbour Tony Mullins and Podge continues to maintain a keen interest in Racing and is an ever present at Race Meetings in Gowran Park.
Afternoon prizewise and e Grade 2 feature is scheduled for 3.27pm.
Two further Races over e bigger obstacles follow, with
e Irish Injured Jockeys Fund Beginners Steeplechase at 4.02pm before e Careys Cottage Cup International Jockeys Invitational Handicap Steeplechase at 4.37pm.
e nale on the day will be
e Ronan Lawlor Memorial Mares Flat Race at 5.12pm.
e Mares Bumper is run in honour of Ronan Lawlor who died tragically in an accident in the stables of Trainer Pat Fahy back in 2010.
Connolly’s Red Mills Day is a major event in Gowran Parish and gets massive support from within the parish and beyond, and it’s a wonderful family day out that usually happens during e Mid-Term Break like it does again this year.
It’s a huge week in Gowran as e Pantomime makes a most welcome return after a three year hiatus next Tuesday Evening -14th February (Valentines Day) - with it’s staging of Hansel & Gretel.
Hur e
Other well known winners of the race include ree Times Champion Hurdle Runner-Up eatreworld(1997 and 1998), Twice
Other winners of the race include Galway Plate winner Moscow Express (2002) when ridden by Ruby Walsh, while Grade 1 winners Rathgar Beau - Trained by Graignamanagh native Dusty Sheehy - and Forget e Past - who was a close ird in the 2006 Cheltenham Gold Cup - were successful in 2005 and 2006 respectively.
One of the most thrill-
Highlighted by e Two featured Red Mills Races, it’s a Superb days Racing that is scheduled to commence at 1.42pm with e Sea Moon and Jukebox Jury At Burgage Stud Maiden Hurdle.
Races are due to be run every 35 minutes with e Red Mills Hurdle timed at 2.17pm.
e Hurdle Races will be complete by e Tote Jackpot Is Back Handicap Hurdle at 2.52pm.
e Red Mills Steeplechase is the most contest of e
Hansel & Gretel continues throughout the week - except ursday - that includes a show on Saturday Night that is expected to be Sold Out and no doubt there will be several people in attendance who will have attended the Race Day earlier on in the day.
Overall, a Supberb days entertainment lies in store in what is one of e biggest days of the year in Gowran Parish.
FEBRUARY 18TH 2023
Connolly’s Red Mills have sponsored this much loved race meeting for over 40 years, and the Style event which was added in recent years is a wonderful opportunity to get all dolled up and be in with a chance to win some pretty amazing prizes.
The Kilkenny Observer are holding a competition to mark this great occasion. The prize is a €300 voucher for Connolly’s Red Mills Store at Cillín Hill, Kilkenny.
Just complete the entry form below with your details and answer to the competition question to be in with a chance to win this fabulous prize. You will have the opportunity to shop at Connolly’s Red Mills Store who feature brands such as Welligogs, Fairfax & Favor and Dubarry.
Good luck everybody.
Name ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Address...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
County.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Mobile................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Email...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
Question: What year was Connolly’s RED MILLS founded
Answer.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
COMPLETE THE ENTRY FORM ABOVE
YOU CAN DELIVER THE COMPLETED ENTRY FORM BY POSTING OR DROPPING IN TO, THE KILKENNY OBSERVER, UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY
1. This competition is sponsored by The Kilkenny Observer
2. The prize will be a €300.00 Voucher for Connolly’s Red Mills Store at Cillín Hill
3. The closing date for entries is Friday, February 24th 2023 at 5.00pm
4. The winner will be chosen by an open draw held at the office of The Kilkenny Observer on Monday, February 27th 2023
5. After being notified the winner will be announced in our edition of March 3rd
6. The prize is non-transferable; no cash equivalents may be claimed.
7. All competition entries must be completed on the above form only.
8. The winner will be advised by phone / e-mail
9. After being notified, the name of the winner will be posted in the next edition of the Kilkenny Observer.
10. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to have agreed to be bound by them when entering the competition.
11. The competition is not open to The Kilkenny Observer employees or their families.
The fashionistas will be out in full force at Gowran Park next Saturday the 18th for the return of the annual Red Mills Race Day and Style Event. Connolly’s Red Mills have sponsored this much loved race meeting for over 40 years, and the Style event which was added in recent years is a wonderful opportunity to get all dolled up and be in with a chance to win some pretty amazing prizes.
Hosted by stylist and presenter Marietta Doran in the Style Quarter at Gowran Park, visitors can enjoy fashion shows, style advice and the Red Mills pop-up shop where you can shop ‘til you drop. e main event is the Best Dressed competition with a total prize fund worth over €1000. Open to ladies and gents of all ages, this year’s guest judge – radio presenter and content creator Nathalie Lennon will have her work cut out choosing this year’s winners and runners up – especially given the impressive turn out at last year’s competition.
e judges will be on the lookout for winners who are both super stylish and appropriately dressed for the time of year. Last years winner Megan Conlon wore a co-ordinating suit which she borrowed from her sister, with matching accessories which really set o the look and wowed the guest judge, weatherman and presenter Deric Hartigan.
ere are a limited number of FREE tickets available for Red Mills Race Day which will go on release at 9am this Friday (10th) on gowranpark.ie.
Gates open on Red Mills Day at 12pm on Saturday the 18th of Feb and there are FREE shuttle buses leaving from Kilkenny Castle from 12 noon, and returning to town in the evening at 6pm and 7pm. You can pre-register for the best dressed event on redmillsstore.ie and be in with a chance to win a €250 voucher for the Red Mills Store just by registering.
is matching skirt and coat set screams Raceday style. From heritage brand Scho el, both pieces are made with 100% lambswool, with technically enhanced fabric which provides not just exceptional warmth but also some protection against the elements.
We’ve teamed the co-ord set with this versatile ll neck blouse with a beautiful lace panel detail and comfy stretch cotton. is is one of our most popular pieces and goes with pretty much everything.
Kicking things o with this wool tweed blazer from Welligogs – this material is created in a stunning colour palette which works so well on Irish skin tones, and can be accessorised with a range of colours including wine, teal and even pale green. e devil is in the detail with this jacket, and the contrasting velvet cu s and back detail, as the subtle tailoring make this is piece that will turn heads.
Stylist and presenter Marietta Doran joined Maura Derrane on RTE Today recently to feature some of her favourite race day looks ahead of Red Mills Day and featuring ladies fashions from Red Mills in Cillin Hill.
Marietta Doran stylist and presenter wearing:
Rachel wool coat €219
Upton leather boots €449
Ellen bow top €74.95
Dubarry leather gloves €79
Also, for observer readers we can do 20% o all the out ts featured with code reader20 on redmillsstore.ie
ese boots have been spotted on the super stylish Meghan Markle, they are made with gorgeous quilted leather and are both super comfortable and also waterproof. ey look great dressed up like this, but look equally as well worn casually with jeans. With a nod to the equestrian sport of polo, this super cute crossbody bag is hand made from the softest leather and is available in 3 colours.
We’ve topped the look o with this stylish fedora in an olive green colour. Not only will it protect your ‘do from any rain or wind, but it’s one you can pull out of the wardrobe any time you head to the races!
Lambswool tweed coat €460
Polo detail leather bag €159
Cotton frill neck blouse €99
Lambswool tweed skirt €170
Quilted leather boots €350
Wool fedora €90Wool knit dress €115
Leather & suede belt €95
Leather knee high boots €450
We’ve matched this with another frill next blouse from Scho el. In a light pink cotton, this will look just as well in summer with a pair of white jeans as it does here dressed up for a day at the track.
ese leg lengthening cord trousers are from new brand in store – King Louie, and there’s a matching blazer which transforms the trousers into a stunning suit.
is bit detail leather clutch from Mackenzie & George will hold all the necessities – racecard, debit card, and a lippy for touch ups, and comes in a few di erent colours if tan isn’t your thing. It’s also handy for travelling and can be popped into a larger tote and then used for dinner dates and day trips.
We’ve nished the look o with these tan suede ankle boots from Fairfax & Favor, the mid heel gives a bit of height, but is still comfortable, and the tan colour goes with everything.
Wool tweed jacket €349
Leather clutch €99
Cotton frill blouse €89
Cord wide leg trousers €99.95
Ankle boot €290
Another stunning blazer from Welligogs, this time in a tted double breasted style in pistachio green, again with the luxe velvet cu trim. is colour compliments Irish skin tones beautifully, and is a great choice for anyone looking to pop a bit of colour into their jacket line up. We’ve popped a bird print blouse from Scho el underneath it, with colours which subtly pick up the di erent hues in the tweed. And with this we’ve picked 3 pieces from iconic Irish brand Dubarry - these super comfy stretch moleskin trousers in a rich brown, classic waterproof leather ‘Galway’ country boots, and a new bag style for this year in a mix of leather and suede, this is quite roomy inside, and comes with a crossbody and a shoulder strap for the ultimate in versatility.
Wool tweed blazer €359
Leather & suede bag €289
Cotton print shirt €100
Moleskin stretch jeans €109
Leather country boots €425
One of our favourite looks – this stunning coat is from new brand King Louie, made with 30% wool, and in a long length which will keep you snug and warm no matter what the weather.
e shirt dress is also King Louie and the fabric is in a pattern matching the lining of the coat, which is a lovely touch for anyone who likes to co-ordinate the pieces in the wardrobe.
e ‘mini tetbury’ bag is a new style for Fairfax & Favor and this limited edition olive colour is suede is a sellout and picks up the khaki tones in the coat to perfection. Again it’s the small details and the braided leather strap adds a uniqueness to the bag which makes it a very special piece.
Finishing o the look we have another new style from Fairfax& Favor – the Belgravia boot is a knee high at style with just a hint of a heel, and a stretch suede back panel which ts snugly to most calf widths and stretches to t over jeans, as well as with dresses and skirts. A sta favourite, these are also available in black suede. De nitely one to consider getting both colours in!
Long wool coat €199
Mini Tetbury suede bag €296
Print dress €129
Belgravia suede boots €370
Hat from Milliner
A trench coat is a wonderful piece to have in the wardrobe as we transition between the seasons. Layer up with knits and eeces during the winter time and then ditch the layers as we move into Spring and even Summer.
is cotton trench from King Louie is giving us serious designer vibes, and the grey check with wines and tans is a welcome break from the basic camel trench which was everywhere last year. Again with King Louie, the detail is inside with a gorgeous satin lining which elevates the style so it’ll look as good draped over your chair as it will on.
We’ve layered the coat over this gorgeous knit dress from Scho el in a very wearable pale grey. e material is a wool blend so you know its going to keep you warm, and there are tapered seams to the side of the skirt for a loosely tailored t.
Over the shoulder we have popped this perfect plum suede crossbody from Fairfax & Favor. It’s deceptively roomy in side and you can wear it across the body with the longer strap or using the handles for a dressier look. e plum colour picks up the purplish tones in the coat and is a lovely contrast to the pale grey of the dress.
ese leather boots are one of our bestsellers – the rich mahogany goes well with most colours and fabrics, and the mid height Cuban heel and memory foam insole combines style with comfort. is particular style – the Regina, also comes in suede tan, black, taupe and navy, and a at version is also available.
Cotton check trench €169
Suede & leather bag €310
Wool knit dress €115
Leather & suede belt €95
Leather knee high boots €450
e match of the trousers featured earlier, this double breasted cord blazer in a warm burgundy colour will look just a well with a pair of jeans as it does over a dress or skirt. e t is tailored and there’s that lovely detail on the lining that King Louie are renowned for.
Underneath we have this staple polo in merino wool which is very warm but not too bulky and ideal for under blazer and dresses during the winter months. e camel colour is super wearable, but if camel is not your thing it’s also available in navy, grey and pink. is suede saddlebag is another sta favourite and the bit detailing on the clasp gives it a very equestrian feel. Wear is as a crossbody or in the hand to show it o in pics! ese trousers are also a match for the cotton trench in the previous look – very designer feel check, which can take you from work to the races in a ash.
And nally, these Apsley loafers will take you anywhere and go with everything. A very slight heel gives a bit of a smart life, and again the memory foam insole provides comfort, while the gold hardware at the front adds a touch of class that will ensure lots of compliments.
Cord blazer €139
Suede saddle bag €349
Wool polo knit €99
Wide leg check trousers €99.95
Suede loafers €215
All of the clothing, footwear and accessories featured are from Red Mills in Cillin Hill Kilkenny, and online at redmillsstore.ie. e headpieces featured are from Hats Amore in Newbridge.
TODAY, they are one of the most trusted global names in high performance animal feed, pet food and agri products, but their origins were as humble as a fresh-baked loaf
In 1800s Bagenalstown, County Carlow, the Connollys were hit head on by the repeal of Corn Laws. Against the backdrop of the Great Famine, a tonne of grain dropped to 1/20th of its previous value. Like thousands of others, the Connollys fled Ireland for America.
Twenty years later in 1866, Michael Connolly, who was now 36, returned to inherit the family’s bakery business.
By now, the flourmill industry had consolidated to the ports of Dublin, Cork, Waterford and Limerick, and rural mills were all but closed.
But Michael saw potential in a mill on the river Barrow.
In 1908 he bought that mill in Goresbridge, restarting it as William Connolly & Sons Ltd – named after his youngest son, William.
That is the foundation of the ethos of Connolly’s RED
MILLS. Every generation works as hard as they can, not for themselves, but to provide a better business for the next generation.
Brandmakers
When William took over, there were four other mills in the area, all producing similar products for the local farming community. To make Connolly’s stand out, he painted the roof red – unwittingly creating a brand icon, now known across the globe as RED MILLS.
William steered the company through two world wars, the Depression, and foot and mouth disease in 1941, handing over to his son Liam at the birth of the technology boom, which he embraced.
The genesis of a modern, high-tech mill came about in the 1950’s, when it was connected to the national electricity grid for the first time.
By 1954, the third generation of the Connolly family was at the helm – in the form of Liam Connolly.
Liam was the driving force
Nestled in the scenic Goresbridge countryside, Connolly’s RED MILLS has been the home of the Connolly family business since 1908.
Connolly’s RED MILLS a local business with a worldwide reach
behind Connolly’s RED MILLS for the next half century, and set down the blueprint of innovation, new product technology, sales and marketing which were to take the company global.
Innovators In 1963, local racehorse trainer Paddy Mullins came to the Connollys for advice
on a horse that wouldn’t eat up. They didn’t make horse feed, but Liam decided to work on it.
He made a formula to encompass all the nutritional requirements of the horse, then cooked it to make it more appetising and digestible.
He came up with a feed that Mullins heralded as the
turning point in the horse’s development and he went on to win the 1966 Powers Gold Cup and the 1967 Irish Grand National.
That horse was Vulpine and his idiosyncrasies launched a new arm of the Connolly family business that has grown to feed 93 winners of group and grade 1 in 14 countries.
4. Developing, testing and measuring the impact of pioneering programmes and approaches;
5. Making evidence available to policy-makers and service providers;
6. Working with partners and stakeholders to ensure that Ireland’s policies, strategies and programmes are directly informed by the needs and experiences of older people.
ey work with a multitude of public and private partners such as government departments, local authorities, health services, universities, community groups, arts and culture organisations and local sports groups to provide opportunities for older people to be more active; more visible; more creative; more connected; more con dent; more often.
In 1988 Age & Opportunity was founded in response to the need of more positive attitudes towards older people and ageing. Today, they continue to innovate and establish Age
Action and Opportunity as a leading thinker on ageing in Ireland, challenging key issues to encourage positive change and wellbeing as we get older. ey design their programmes with an approach that empowers people to be the agents of their own lives. ey are continually nding new ways to engage, to motivate and to support people in this adventure.
As Twilight Seniors Group wish for the people in our community to get more active and interested in participating in new experiences – in arts, sports or general community engagement. Twilight Seniors want to be able to o er them more – now that you all have more time on your hands?
By Collaborating with Age & Opportunity Twilight Seniors Group can o er you and your group a range of di erent options to get you involved in your community more –whether it’s to organise, participate or simply have some fun!
As time goes by, those who were the young and active ones are now Senior members of society and suddenly realise that unfortunately when you reach that age many members of society now see us as a burden, no use to our community, we have no interests or wish to participate. It is the notion ‘wrap me in a blanket and sit in goods waiting room’. Well we all know the answer to
that ‘What a load of BS’
We at Twilight want to grow our Seniors programme. Introduce new and a variety of Programmes and activities. In 2023 we will complete the Protecting Assisting Senior Services (PASS). We have some excellent and exciting news to tell you on PASS and other events to come in 2023. Since we were established in 2014, we have seen our programmes and our range of friends grow. We believe in
Collaboration. Together we will get more done, better, facilities for all rather than a facility for a small number, Yes they too are warranted. But, sometimes we are all competing for the same funds where if we ‘Collaborated’ we could think and provide bigger and provide better opportunities. With that in mind today we are going to talk about an excellent group called Age Action & Opportunity Age & Opportunity is the
leading national development organisation working to enable the best possible quality of life for us all as we age. ey do this by:
1. Championing the creativity and value of older people;
2. Combating stereotypes and negative views of ageing;
3. Developing inclusive and engaging experiences which respond to the interests and needs of the diverse older adult population;
The inaugural launch of Dr Joe Kearney’s story collection, ‘The Beekeeper and the River,’ was held in Keogh’s pub in Mill Street Callan recently
ere was big turnout for the event as Joe originally hails from Callan and his Sunday Miscellany contributions on RTE very often feature the town and his memories from growing up there.
Many present were surprised to see that Joe is a banjo and harmonica player. Together with guitarist and balladeer Denis O’ Donoghoe they entertained the assembled gathering for a few hours after the launch.
Joe’s mother, Nancy, also a Callan resident, was persuaded to contribute a song or two.
e book was launched by historian and retired school principal, Frank McKenna.
is week in e Kilkenny Observer, we are delighted to report on the launch.
Opening proceedings on the night, Frank McKenna welcomed the attendance and explained that he only really got to know Joe Kearney in the last decade.
Dr Joe has, long before tonight, been acclaimed for his contributions to Sunday Miscellany, his awardwinning documentaries and his previous books including ‘ en ere Was Light’ (the story of rural electri cation) and ‘From the Candy Store to the Galtymore’.
“Tonight, I have been asked to launch his latest book the Beekeeper and the River” began Frank, going on to explain that the river in question was the King’s River which is 46.27 km long. Frank joked “despite how many of you here tonight may feel about it, a good deal of it ows through Tipperary as well as through Kilkenny.”
e MC continues: “as much as we associate it with Callan and Niall of the Hostages it is also shared by Ballingarry, Mullinahone and Kells.
ere are houses and restaurants and businesses that have some
variation of the King’s River or Avonree in their name and indeed our new school is called Coláiste Abhainn Rí.”
Mr McKenna explained that few things annoy Callan people more than the state of the river bed which generates huge traction on social media and the politician that is eventually credited with xing it will be re-elected as often as he/she runs for o ce.
“It is hard to be oblivious to the King’s river.
It is a shapeshifter and a chameleon. It has a face for every season and a few more to spare.
If you were into shing in the river or picnicking or swimming in the Paupers when you could swim there or just walking in the Motte or the Abbey Meadow you have seen these faces- they are often benign but they are frequently ferocious.”, said Frank.
Frank went on to reminisce about
times past explaining “Usually one goes to see the river but the river often comes to see you especially if you live in the Bridge Street area. Twice, in the late eighties, I pulled up the late Miss O’Regan’s carpets o her oor, just as the river was entering her house.
In 1986 I got a phone call to say that, in the aftermath of Hurricane Charlie, our furniture in number 3 was oating down Bridge Street. So many have their own story about the river but tonight we feature just a short portion of the river – the few miles that feature in Joe’s latest book that we launch tonight. “ e former CBS principal recounted that in the story Draining the Paupers Joe uses the phrase “Let the river do the talking” and in many ways that is what the river is doing through Joe. You might say that the King’s River is to Joe Kearney as ‘ e stony grey soil of Monaghan’ is to Patrick
Kavanagh.”
Reminding the author of his roots McKenna said: “You could try to take the boy out of Callan, and Joe has been gone from Callan for well over 50 years, but Callan has never been taken out of Joe.”
It’s as if the teenage Joe, long before cloud technology and digital photography, screenshot the scenes of his youth in 1960 and 70s Callan and stored them in the Dropbox of his imagination until the time was right to let them loose and that time, thankfully, is now.
Bringing the attendance back to the 60’s and 70’s Frank remembered the cartoon character Curly wee. “In the story Reading Curly Wee, Joe actually uses the phrase ‘ ose pictures actually live in my head’, which sums it up perfectly.”
Joe had not forgotten his time in London either. “Any of us here tonight that ever waited in line outside the Crown in Cricklewood looking for ‘the start’ or took the ‘Wimpy shilling’ knew all about hardship and stress, loneliness and longing.
Joe, skilfully, brings both of those worlds together especially in the story Moon Arch, my particular favourite in the book.
Here, Joe adopts a theme as old as time itself and well developed by the likes of J M Synge, but gives it a Callan setting with a blend of characters so well imagined, and seemingly real, and so skilfully meshed together, that one struggles to di erentiate as which is which. Martin McDonagh would have great fun with a character from that story that Joe depicts as the Bugler Cody.”
As you move from story to story in the book , you experience the full gamut of emotions – revenge, rage, love in many shapes and forms.
e book is really funny in places but, just like the river, it turns dark in
an instant.
e river features to varying degrees throughout the 15 short stories but it does appear in them all and by doing so Joe paints a warts and all picture of life in Callan as the country arose from the severity of the 50’s and began to embrace the new world. e e orts of Joe and his pals to bring ower power to Callan in 1969 as detailed in Say it with Flowers dates the book well and it can be argued that e Beekeeper and the River is also a powerful social history of those times, and as P J Cunningham said, will ensure that the “book will endure for ages to come”.
Concluding proceedings on the night Mr Mc Kenna said “on May 29th last Joe came back to Callan to launch the history of his alma mater. e story he contributed to that particular book was a homage to his mother, Nancy, titled Wellspring . ose long summer days that Joe spent in the home he shared with his parents have supplied the wellspring of ideas and plots that have culminated in the Beekeeper and the River and I am honoured to launch it here tonight.
‘ e Beekeeper and the River’ is available for purchase at Maher’s Inver Service Station, Lyons Fruit and Veg Callan as well as e Book Centre Kilkenny.
Irish Ambassador Eamon Hickey and the Irish Embassy were thrilled to host a reception to honour the achievements of Irish women involved in the creative arts in Switzerland.
During the week, they gathered together musicians, poets, sculptors, writers, designers & others in celebration of Saint Brigid’s Day!
Among those talented ladies was Catherine Shortall Cronin, who performed a specially written piece for the evening.
Catherine is from Cellarstown in Kilkenny and is daughter of Geraldine and Pat Shortall.
Cronin is a writer, currently based in Switzerland.
A proud Kilkenny native, Ireland is never far from her mind or her work.
She is a former Loreto Secondary School student, and studied Humanities at Carlow College before gaining Master’s Degree at NUI Galway and Mary Immaculate College, Limerick in the elds of Philosophy and Literature.
After a decade working in education in Zurich, a cancer diagnosis pushed her to seriously follow her passion for writing. She wrote and submitted her rst play, “Håber Undone”, to Druid eatre company, Galway and was chosen to be part of
their Druid Debuts rehearsed readings programme for 2021.
Catherine’s second play is a one-woman piece called “Orphan Disease” and was premiered in Zurich last August, before it was staged at the Watergate in Kilkenny.
Kilkenny writing connections
Catherine regularly contributes to her dad’s programme ‘Sunday Serendipity ‘ on Community
radio Kilkenny city 88.7fm. Her work has also appeared in various poetry collections including with e Involvement Centre and e Recovery Kilkenny.
In 2021 and 2022 Catherines short stories were featured in e Kilkenny Observer.
Today, Catherine continues her treatment for cancer but thanks to an excellent medical team and a life enriched by following her passion for writing, the prospects for a longer, healthier life are now much more realistic than back in 2018.
Prep: 20 mins
Cook: 45 mins
Serves: 4
Make this Spanish paellastyle dish with squid ink for dramatic black rice – but if you can’t nd it, use sa ron instead for the more familiar yellow look.
Ingredients
• 300g cleaned squid (ask your shmonger to do this for you)
• 8 large king prawns, head and shell on
• 5 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp fennel seeds, toasted
• 1 lemon, juiced and zested
• 4 garlic cloves, sliced
• 2 onions, nely chopped
• 1 fennel bulb, half nely chopped, half nely sliced using a mandoline if you have one, fronds reserved
• 200g paella or risotto rice
• 125ml white wine
• 3 sachets squid ink (available from souschef.co.uk)
• 500ml chicken or sh stock
• chopped parsley, to serve Method
Prep: 5 mins
Cook: 25 mins
Serves: 2 adults and 2 children
With courgette, peppers and eggs, this vegetarian dish is a lling, healthy breakfast for all the family – kids will enjoy dipping toast into soft egg yolk.
Ingredients
• 300g baby new potatoes, halved
• ½ tbsp rapeseed oil
• 1 knob of butter
• 1 courgette, cut into small chunks
• 1 yellow pepper, cut into small chunks
• 1 red pepper, cut into small chunks
• 2 spring onions, nely sliced
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 sprig thyme, leaves picked
• 4 eggs
• toast, to serve
STEP 1
Slice the squid into rings and tip into a mixing bowl with the tentacles, prawns, 4 tbsp olive oil, fennel seeds, the lemon juice, half the garlic and some seasoning, then set aside.
STEP 2
Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/ gas 6. Heat the remaining oil in a shallow, wide ovenproof pan. Fry the onions and chopped fennel for about 10 mins until
soft and starting to turn golden, add the remaining garlic and cook for another 5 mins. Scatter in the rice, stir and cook until it just starts to crackle. Pour in the wine, ink and stock and bring up to a simmer, giving everything a gentle stir to incorporate the ink. Stir through most of the sliced squid, keeping a few rings and the tentacles back.
STEP 3
Transfer the pan to the oven,
cook for 25 mins, then place the prawns and remaining squid on top and drizzle everything with the oil from the marinade. Put back in the oven for another 10 mins or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice and seafood are just cooked. Scatter over the sliced fennel and fronds, lemon zest, and the chopped parsley. Place in the middle of the table and let everyone help themselves.
Prep: 20 mins plus steeping
Makes 1 x 700ml bottle
Have a glut of blackcurrants? Make some homemade blackcurrant gin. Drink on its own, add a dash to champagne, or use in place of cassis in cocktails.
Ingredients
• 300g blackcurrants
• 200g caster sugar
• 700ml bottle gin
You will also need
• 1l wide-mouthed, ip-top jar, sterilised
Method
STEP 1
Wash the blackcurrants and remove any stems, stalks and leaves from the fruit. Discard any that are bruised or discoloured.
STEP 2
Put the prepared blackcurrants into the sterilised 1-litre jar, along with the sugar and gin. Seal the lid, and shake until most of the sugar dissolves. Reserve the gin bottle for later.
STEP 3
Keep in a cool dark place, and give the jar a shake every day if you can, or every couple of days. e gin will be ready after three weeks, but can be kept for up to three months with the blackcurrants in for a stronger avour. Don’t keep the currants in the gin for any longer than three months or the avour will start to deteriorate.
STEP 4
Method
STEP 1
Boil the new potatoes for 8 mins, then drain.
STEP 2
Heat the oil and butter in a large non-stick frying pan, then add the courgette, peppers, potatoes and a little
salt and pepper. Cook for 10 mins, stirring from time to time until everything is starting to brown. Add the spring onions, garlic and thyme and cook for 2 mins more.
STEP 3
Make four spaces in the pan
and crack in the eggs. Cover with foil or a lid and cook for around 4 mins, or until the eggs are cooked (with the yolks soft for dipping into). Sprinkle with more thyme leaves and ground black pepper if you like. Serve with toast.
Decant a little into a glass, and taste. When you’re happy with the avour, strain through a ne mesh cloth or muslin, back into the original, or another, clean bottle. Discard the fruit. e avour will keep developing over time, store in a cool dark place. Drink on its own, add a dash to champagne, or use in place of cassis for a less sweet pro le.
Fauda is the long-running crime drama on Net ix, blending elements of action and thriller together into a high-octane thrill-ride that’s hard not to binge-through.
After nishing the whole series, you may be wondering if this has been renewed or cancelled. Here’s what we know:
Fauda’s latest season, S4, teases the most dangerous mission for our characters yet. e plot here involves Hezbollah activists from Lebanon and Palestinian militants in the West Bank, making for a rather deadly cocktail of drama.
Following the fall-out from Season 3, Specialist Combat Team leader Doron is wracked with guilt over
the death of his teammate, which is only made worse by his dismissal from the unit.
As a result, Captain Ayub enlists Doron for a basic security mission in Brussels. Once there, the meeting goes awry and Doron soon nds himself in a confrontation with a daring terrorist cell.
At the time of writing, Fauda has not been renewed for a fth season. Given the nature of the show’s content, that could well change if it does good numbers for Net ix.
Generally, Net ix gauge numerous metrics before renewing a show, including how many people initially watch it and then looking at the drop-o rate. e completion rate is one of the most
important metrics though, as recently revealed with the shock cancellation of 1899. With some shows, cancellations or renewals happen quickly (all. Squid Game, Bridgerton and Irregulars) Other times, it can take months before Net ix make a decision over a show’s future.
So far, Fauda has had a pretty good reaction from critics and audiences alike, with many pointing out the show adopts the perfect ingredients to make for a really intriguing action thriller. Given the way this show is set up, we’re predicting that this will be renewed for a fth season. is show is still super popular and fans are likely to stick with this
one until the end rather than dropping it halfway through. at said, barely anything is known about season 5 at this point, given Net ix have not green-lit a sequel. However, if this is renewed expect the story to continue, with another dangerous mission for our characters to undertake. As mentioned above, we predict that this will be renewed but we’ll have to wait and see what happens.
Meanwhile, if you have not seen the four seasons of Fauna, we highly recommend it. Concerning the decadeslong con ict between Israel and Palestine, it, despite being an independent Israeli production, is a fairly balanced account of the ongoing con ict.
Net ix has retracted password-sharing restrictions that were apparently posted in error on its platform.
Earlier, the streamer had updated its rules for sharing passwords on its Help Centre Page. It noted that one’s “Netix account is for people who live together in a single household”. Net ix further speci ed that “people who do not live in your household will need to use their own account to watch Net ix”.
e update was met with serious backlash, with a number of subscribers threatening to cancel their subscriptions.
Overnight, Net ix responded to the situation and said the information was shared accidentally.
“For a brief time yesterday, a help centre article containing information that is only applicable to Chile, Costa Rica and Peru went live in other countries,” a Net ix spokesperson told e Guardian. “We have
since updated it.”
For people to have “uninterrupted access to Net ix”, the help document explained that people would have to keep watching something from their home every 31 days. If they don’t, they will be asked to enter a temporary code in order to log in.
However, the streamer acknowledges that, if people are travelling or living between di erent homes, they will still be able to watch things
on Net ix. Both the primary account holder and people who live in the household “shouldn’t need to verify” devices when watching, despite where they are.
Net ix has been threatening a crackdown on password sharing for years. Now, following its trial run in Latin America, its most recent January newsletter stated it would “expect to roll out paid sharing more broadly” in the next few months.
1. Dear Edward Apple TV + will be hoping to continue its good run of form with new family drama series Dear Edward, which begins streming this weekend.
An adaptation of Ann Napolitano’s novel of the same name, this 10-part story centres on 12-year-old boy (Colin O’Brien) whose life is upended when he becomes the sole survivor of a commercial plane crash that kills everyone on board, including the rest of his family. e success of (and critical praise for) its source material could potentially land the series a spot on our list of the best Apple TV Plus shows. Its rst three episodes are available to stream now.
Having debuted on BBC in the UK back in September 2022, acclaimed mockumentary series Cunk On Earth now nds its way onto Net ix.
Created by Black Mirror’s Charlie Brooker, the show follows ctional investigative journalist Philomena Cunk (Diane Morgan) – a character who has appeared in several Brooker projects throughout the last decade – as she interviews unsuspecting academics about the greatest inventions in human history, Borat-style.
Guest stars throughout the series’ ve episodes include Lisa Kudrow, Kumail Nanjiani, Hugh Grant and Tracey Ullman.
3, Harlem, Season 2
Girls Trip creator Tracy Oliver’s acclaimed comedy series, Harlem, on Amazon Prime Video, returns for its highly anticipated second season. Once again following misadventures of a group of stylish and ambitious girlfriends (played by Megan Good, Grace Byers, Shoniqua Shandai and Jerrie Johnsonin) in the eponymous New York City neighbourhood, Harlem S2 nds the gang reckoning with complicated questions of fertility and parenthood.
Episodes 1 and 2 are available to stream with the remaining six instalments set to arrive in pairs on a weekly basis every Friday.
4. True Spirit
is true story-inspired new Net ix movie dramatises 16-year-old Jessica Watson’s quest to become the youngest person to complete a non-stop solo sail around the globe. Teagan Croft, Anna Paquin and Cli Curtis all star. Judging by the lm’s trailer, we’re not expecting True Spirit to break onto our list of the best Net ix movies any time soon – but critics have nonetheless called this one “an empowering tribute to a magni cent achievement”.
5. e Great British Baking Show: e Professionals
e pro-grade spin-o to beloved UK import e Great British Bake OF returns for its sixth season on Net ix. For those not in-the-know, e Great British Baking Show: e Professionals swaps out its parent show’s tent, Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith in favour of a luxurious catering kitchen, intentionally haughty judges and – you guessed it! – professional patisserie chefs as its embattled contestants.
e bread-and-butter format of e Professionals, though, is identical to that of e Great British Baking Show.
new ones to stream right now 5
MACRA NEWS; A group of Callan Macra Club members travelled to Copenhagen in Denmark last week for a social weekend away. Spirits were high despite the damp weather. They explored the Scandinavian city, taking in popular attractions such as The Little Mermaid statue and The Opera House. Thanks to social o icer, Patrick Walton for organising. Well done to the clubs Capers team who qualified for the National Finals. They took on the tough role of show openers and absolutely blew the roof o . Congratulations to Donoughmore and Kinsale who also placed in the top 3 and to Kilkenny City Macra who qualified in the other semi-final. Special congratulations to Padraig Maher on winning best male and Michael Sherlock who nabbed the best producer award. Thanks to Avondhu Macra for hosting a great night. The Callan clubs capers crew have prepared well and had large support for their trip to County Meath last Saturday Night. There was a great turnout at the county round of impromptu debating and public speaking in the Macra hall in Callan. The motion up for debate on the night was “Cheap food is costing the planet”. The Callan debating team of Deirdre Purcell, Christine O’Neill and Jimmy Lynch debated against a social team of Josephine O’Neill, Fabian Jacob and Eoin Kennedy. Best of luck to the team in the next round.
BARISTA SISTAS; Just before Christmas a new business opened its doors on the Cross in Callan. The name Barista Sistas had been on most peoples tongues for nearly two months before the opening and even a van with the new Barista Sistas logo became recognisable throughout the town. For Jane Lowth and her husband Mark it took a little longer to transform the old shop on the site into a modern co ee house and café. Space was at a premium and creating a working space as well as bathroom and seating took a lot of planning. But what they created in the small space was nothing short of a miracle to create a comfortably laid out 13 seater and when the good weather arrives extra seating can be placed outside. The cafe is a wonderful addition to the centre of the town especially since the closure of the L’Arche café at the start of the pandemic. The town already has two smashing cafes in Bretts and Fennelly’s as well as the Big Wheel Bar as comfortable seated experiences but Barista Sistas brings a di erent experience with all home made confectionary which is Janes speciality. Such was Janes attention to detail that for months before opening she tried out her di erent cakes and sandwiches on friends and neighbours around Callan as well as family in Dublin. Jane was meticulous in the choice of co ee bean she was going to use as good co ee is the heart beat of any café and can make or break a reputation. So Jane did detailed research and hit on Marley co ee, called a er the great Rastafarian guitarist and singer Bob Marley. Bob Marley dreamt of one day putting his passion of music into farming. Through his son Rohan Marley, that dream was finally brought to life in the Jamaican Blue Mountains. When asked “Why co ee?” Rohan Marley, o en speaks of his family and his legacy. He comes from a family full of passion for music and the earth. Ronan said “My father came from the farmland in Nine Mile. There, he learned a deep respect for nature and humanity that helped guide his life. His dream was to return one day.” Jane has certainly hit the jackpot with her choice of co ee which is used to brew co ee in the illustrious Shelbourne Hotel Dublin. Barista Sistas has also set high standard with their food and cakes and produce new treats every week. The latest are Pixies Pancakes for the youngsters and no doubt some of the adults will indulge. Choose from plain or chocolate chip served with fruit, cream and chocolate sauce, sounds great. One of the sandwiches on o er is the ‘Ham Maguire’ which is nod to Jane
and her husband Marks Dublin roots. Locally sourced baked ham, Irish mature red cheddar and delicious Gruyère cheese all served on fabulous locally sourced sourdough bread. It has to be eaten to be believed. Already they have built up a loyal sit in and take away trade and such has been the demand that the café now opens from 7.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday and from 8.30am to 3.30pm on Saturday while they take a well deserved rest on Sundays. Janes cakes are a huge hit so get there early and don’t miss out.
FAMINE MIGRATION : THE DORANS FROM COOLAGH TO MAINE; The lecture will take place in Coolagh Parish Hall tonight Friday, February 10th starting at 7:30. The lecture will be given by Mary-Alice Wildasin. Mary-Alice’s mother is Danielle Doran. Danielle’s great -great grandfather Patrick le Ireland in the first half of the 19th Century, he first arrived in Canada with his parents and siblings and they later moved across the border to Maine. Danielle wrote an account of her family history for the Callan 800 - Companion Volume, Chapter 15 ‘Welcome Home’ (From Coolagh to Maine). She now lives in Callan. Both mother and daughter have done a lot of research into their family history and are looking forward to this up coming presentation. Certainly, those with an interest in that period will be looking forward to the evening.
Seven members from Callan competed in the impromptu public speaking. A huge variety of topics were spoken about on the night. Congrats to Christine and Josephine O’Neill who progress to the next round. Well done to everyone who competed and thanks to all the supporters. Special thanks also to Joanne Cushen for organising, Lisa Delaney for timekeeping and Avril Collins for presiding, and of course to the judges too. The Callan Macra ladies footballers had a great day out at the national finals in Carrigaline County Cork over last weekend. They first took to the pitch against Dunhill, beating them by the smallest of margins. In the second game they had a tough battle against eventual champions Aghinagh Macra. A win in the group stages was enough to see the Callan girls progress to the semi-final. They came up against a tough Banteer Macra side, and despite fighting to the very end, came up 4 points short. A very fun day was had by all. Congratulations Aghinagh.
MOUNT CARMEL; The wonderful facility of independent living at Mount Carmel held both their January and February draws last week and will continue that pattern up to the summer period. The results for both months are, January 2023; €200 Mary Keane C/O Fergus Keane Mount Carmel/ €100 Eileen Ronan Westcourt, €30 each to Eileen Phelan Mohober, Kathleen Funchion Kilkenny, Biddy Carroll Collins Park, Tommy Hickey Mount Carmel. Iris Castles Coolaghflags,
Michael and Mary Murray Killamery, Joe Cuddihy Prologue, Sean Kennedy Mount Carmel, Mary Egan Ballykee e, Finnoula Blaque Bauntha, Promoters prizes €15 Mary Clancy, Caroline Murphy, Elaine Bryan.
February 2023; €200 Frank McKenna Kilkenny, €100 Declan Nolan Green View Terrace, €30 each to Barrie Henriques Callan, Mary Fitzgerald Ballycloven, Marcus Ryan Ballymack, Breda O Sullivan Westcourt, Therese Lynch Knockreagh, Niamh O Sullivan Ballymack, Nora Comerford Kilbride, Joan O Neill Rice Park, Tina and Andy Carmody Newtown, Joan Delaney Ballycallan. €15 Promoters prizes to Breda Somers, Laurie Grace, Goretti Bradshaw.
Thank you to everyone for your constant support to Mount Carmel. The centre is very lucky to have such a wonderful facility in our town, and the location in the town is excellent for all residents, within walking distance to so many places. Mount Carmel will be doing the 12 draws in a shorter space of time this year in order to bring it back to finishing early summer. This is a better time for the promoters to collect during the summer, it only moved to later in the year in 2020 due to Covid when they had to delay our draws. So if you weren’t lucky this time Mount Carmel still have seven more draws to go. Best
luck everyone
O’Loughlin Gaels Club Lotto. There was no winner of this week’s club lotto (January 31st)
Numbers drawn 1, 10, 17, 28 Bonus 24. Next week’s top prize will be €16,200 (Feb 6)
Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto
Promotors Draw : 1. Tom Leahy c/o John Joe Cullen. 2. Madison Cody c/o Mary Cody
3. Anne Cullen c/o Anne Cullen. 4. Matt Canavan c/o Maurice Nolan
5. Shiela Foley c/o Maurice Nolan. 6. Stephen Murphy c/o Brian Murphy
7. Sinead Dowling c/o Peter Dowling. 8. Laura Loughnane c/o online
9. Paula Rogers c/o Online. 10. Chris Ryan c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support
JUVENILE REGISTRATION
Juvenile Registration Night for the GAA and Camogie Clubs on Friday the 10th Feb 6.30 until 7.30pm. Full details at www.oloughlingaels. com/membership
All existing members should use the foireann app to renew club membership for 2023). All new members welcome.
MICHAEL CASS RIP
The people of Freshford and surrounds were shocked and saddened to learn last weekend of the passing of Michael Cass late of Buncrussia Street, Freshford. He had been unwell for a short time but nevertheless his passing caused widespread shock and regret. In his 70s Michael was very involved in the community life in Freshford. A devoted husband, father and grandfather, he was a skilled carpenter and could turn his hand to many skills and was very interested in antiques especially. He was a friendly and good living gentleman he loved walking and hunting. He had a great singing voice and was a member of the Parish Choir over the decades, he was also involved in the Freshford Tidy Towns and was a member of Freshford Panto over the decades also. He was a former Trustee of Freshford Community Hall for many years and he also represented Freshford in the Conkers Championship at one stage. His funeral mass took place on Monday morning in St.Lachtains Church followed by burial in St.Lachtains Cemetery. He is deeply mourned by his wife Catherine, his sons Patrick, Alan and Philip, his daughters Karina and Michelle, grandchildren, sons in law, daughter in law, brother, nephews, nieces and large circle of relatives and friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended.
SQUASH
Congratulations and well done to a young local boy Nathan Walsh, Sart, Freshford who took part in the Leinster Junior Open held in Sutton last weekend. Nathan was taking part in the U13 section with over 21 boys in his group. Nathan went in to the competition seeded No.9 and took on the No8 seed in his first game and had a great win beating his opponent 3-0. He was unlucky to be drawn against the No.1 seed in Ireland from County Galway but he put in a great fight against him only losing his first two games but minimum of 11-9 and the third game was a close one also but going to the Galway boy. In his next game on Sunday morning he played brilliantly to win 3-1 and then on Sunday a ernoon he took on the No.6 seed from Galway also and again Nathan played out of his skin with some fantastic squash to win 3-0 with the third game very tight indeed, with Nathan coming out on top 16-14. Everyone in Freshford Squash club especially would like to say a massive congrats to Nathan who finished 5th overall in the Leinster Junior open – a great achievement for this young boy.
BLACK BELT FOR DYLAN
Congratulations and well done to local young boy Dylan Condon from Rathbeagh who was award his Black belt in Karate. Well done to Dylan and all his classmates on their achievement and keep it up.
DEATH
The death took place last weekend of Mrs. May Butler late of Purcellsgarden, Threecastles. She had been unwell for a time but nevertheless her passing caused widespread sorrow in the area. A quiet and good living lady she was predeceased by her husband John. Her funeral mass took place in Tulla Church on Tuesday morning followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery She is mourned by her daughters Mary and Ellie, grandchildren, sons in law, sister, sisters in law, brothers in law, nephews nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.
COURSING
A large number travelled to Clonmel this week to see some local winners in the Coursing recently take part. Greyhound “Handsome Tim”, owned by Stacey and Tim Davies, trained by local lad Tommy Flynn won Derby Trial Stake in Tubercurry, Sligo recently and qualified for Clonmel while another local syndicate of Willie Walsh, Eoin O’Donnell, Jonathan Doheny and Denis Lennon, trained by Denis “Fiadhs Future” also qualified. The meeting was held over Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
SYMPATHY
Sympathy is extended to Edward Ryan Cascade, Freshford on the death last weekend of his brother in law Pat Staunton late of Ballyouskill. Funeral Mass took place in Ballyouskill church on Tuesday morning followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. He is mourned by his sons John and Niall grandchildren and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.
COMMUNITY CAFÉ
The new Community at Buncrussia Street which opened just before Christmas is proving to be very popular in the village to date The Loop Café is serving some beautiful homemade food. The Café which is run on a voluntary basis is open Tuesday to Saturday each week from 9.30am to 4pm, so why not go along for a co ee or a snack and meet your friends for a chat as well as supporting the new local business.
COMMUNIYT ALERT
Freshford /Threecastles Community Alert Group remind people that the annual text Alert scheme membership is now due. It cost just €10 per phone number for this service and to enroll or pay your fee you can contact any of the following committee members, John Bergin, Jacinta Power, Anna Morrissey, Mick Cormack. New members are always very welcome and the group thank all those for their
continued support. They would like to remind people that during these dark evenings to be vigilant towards your property and your neighbours and keep an eye out for anything suspicious and report same to Kilkenny Garda Station on 056 775500
PLAYGROUND
Work can be seen to be well underway on the local Playground at Kilkenny Road. Great credit is due to the hard working committee who fought for this amenity over past couple of years. It is hoped that the Playground will be ready for the summer.
GAA
St Lachtains Bord na nOg Annual Meeting was due to be held recently in Clubrooms with Parents/Guardians/Coaches all invited to attend
(full report next week)
LAST MAN STANDING
That time of year again when the national hurling league comes back into action.
St Lachtain’s will again this year be running a Last Man Standing competition with fantastic prize of €350 for the winner & €50 for the seller of the winner.
Starting on the 4th of February & Entries must be in at 12 noon on the day of the first game each weekend Entries can be given to any player or committee member. Please read the rules carefully
DARTS
The Freshford and District Darts League is now back in full action a er a break over the Christmas period and continues each Friday night and Sunday evenings.
TREE JOB
The Woodview residents association have through their Chairman expressed satisfaction for a job well done by Treeline. The trees have got a well earned pruning and topping in a most environmentally clean manner. The Association also paid tribute to the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council and singled out Local Cllr. Mick McCarthy who coordinated the work and ensured the topping was carried out to a very high standard.
PARISH NEWS
Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.
Notices
The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish O ice. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be le in or emailed to the Parish O ice by 11am on Thursdays. Parish o ice hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.
Mass Cards
Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish O ice or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish o ice on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21
HELP FOR ALL
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life di icult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342
If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808
SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone
1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm
AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.o
DUNNAMAGGIN
Since 2019 I have been compiling the Dunnamaggin notes for the Kilkenny Observer. My last notes for the community is this week as Eamon and myself are relocating to the coast. I would hope that someone from the parish - Kilmoganny, Kells or Dunnamaggin - will take on the job. It’s not di icult once you have access to an email account - groups and individuals who wish to highlight an event happening in the community email before 12 noon the Tuesday before the paper (which is published every Friday). I then put everything into an email to the Observer and send it in. I also email James with the notes so as it is put up on DKK.ie. With a smart phone it can be done from anywhere. If you wish to take on the role please email jack@kilkennyobserver.ie with your contact details and he will take it from there giving you all the help and assistance you may need. It has been a pleasure and a privilege
ST LEONARDS NS
St.Leonard’s NS were well represented in the recent Kilkenny Cumann na mBunscoil handball competitions. Keira Lyons and Aimee Hickey won the U11 doubles competition while Aoife McCormack narrowly lost out in the U11 singles. Also competing for Dunnamaggin were Méabh Moylan and Sinéad Butler in u13 doubles and Ruth Moylan in u13 singles, Robbie Lyons and Dan Doherty in u13 doubles, Eddie Butler and Aidan Aylward in the u11 doubles and Cathal Lawton in the u11 singles. The eleven are members of Kells Handball Club and were a credit to their school on the day. Keira Lyons and Aimee Hickey then progressed to the Leinster competition last Friday and were narrowly beaten by Dublin in a tie-breaker at the semi final stage. The future looks bright for these great handballers. Enrolments for September 2023 are now taking place. Please email dunnamagginschool@gmail.com or phone 083 1208221 for a form.
Closing date is March 16th.
DUNNA DASH
The Dunna Dash will take place on March 5th in aid of the school.
Registration at 11am - Kids Dash at 11.40am - 5 Km at 12 noon. Adults
€10 - Children €5 - Family €20
LOCAL LOTTO
Local Lotto Winning numbers for January 30th 10,22,30. No winner. Draw for 5 x €30. Pat Flynn (Pauline Flynn), Mutley (Pat Butler), M.Moore (Pete’s), Zoe Kenneally(Jackie Kenneally), Mary Cummins (Niamh O Donovan). Jackpot that week: €5,350. Venue Delaney’s,Kells at 9pm. All welcome.
Thanks to Trish Finegan for faithfully keeping readers of The Kilkenny Observer informed of the Parish events and wishing both Trish and Eamon the best in their retirement.
KILMOGANNY BRIDGE CLUB
Results for 1/2/2023: 1st Mary Comerford and Rita Holohan. BG Catherine Burke and Helan Lanigan, 2nd Mary Lonergan and Kathleen O’Shea Bridge is every Wednesday night at 7.30pm in St. Eoghans Centre, Kilmoganny. All welcome.
DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FC
Congratulations to Eléna Byrne who was awarded a GAA Presidents Award for her work with the club. Eléna was joined by friends and family including fellow club founder Joe Sheridan and mentor Emer Hickey at last Saturday night’s @o icialgaa President’s Award ceremony. Great to see our great wonderful club in the national limelight!
SHUGHAWADDA PLAYERS
Kilmogannys Shrughawadda Players latest play, The Year of the Hiker by John B Keane will go on stage from the 23rd to the 26th February in St Eoghan’s Centre. Tickets are €12 and can be purchased online @ http://www.gr8events.ie/shrughawaddaplayers23 or at Pete’s Shop.
DROICHEAD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Food Bank available in Droichead FRC, The Old CBS, West Street, Callan R95V380- take what you need. Selection of foods and personal care products available. Deliveries also available, private and confidential service for more info contact Carmel (083) 2098069 or familysupport@droicheadfrc.ie . Inclusive.
Knit/ Crochet & Natter takes place every Friday from 10am-12pm. A tutor will be on hand to show new skills and classes are open to all beginners/improvers/ advanced. €2 per class to cover the cost of tea and co ee and sewers and fans of other yarn cra s are also welcome. For more info or to book contact Carmel (083) 2098069 or familysupport@droicheadfrc.ie .
KNOCKDRINNA GARDENING COURSE
Knockdrinna are running a 1/2 day course on tree pruning geared for the home gardener who just wants to learn how to prune trees in their own gardens. It will cover mature trees, young trees, how to stake properly and how to plant and care for new trees. To book your place, click on the link here: https://www.knockdrinna.com/ gardening VOLUNTEERS IN SPORT AWARDS
Each week over 450,000 people volunteer to help make sport happen. Without them there would not be teams coached, matches played, pitches prepared, races run or courts kept in condition. The Federation of Irish Sport hosts the Volunteers in Sport Awards as a unique celebration to honour and recognise individuals who are part of the wider volunteering community involved in sport, who give freely of their time and e orts in a variety of ways through the structure of sports clubs and/or community organisations in Ireland. Complete the entry form to celebrate the volunteer you admire most. There will be 32 county winners decided and an overall award for Outstanding Achievement. Each county winner will receive a commemorative prize.To nominate your volunteer and find out more information visit: https://volunteersinsport.ie/ Federation of Irish Sport ACTIVITIES FOR OLDER PEOPLE IN WATERSHED KILKENNY
Do you know of somebody who would like to meet other seniors (50+) and enjoy a bit of activity, games and fun in a social setting?
Then why not pop along to the Watershed on Monday nights at 8pm for some tutor led skittles, chatting, boccia and bowling. It only costs €20 for 10 weeks. Call Seamus for more information 087 3567884 or register directly on https://bocciabowlingolderadults2023.eventbrite.
ie GARDEN BIRD SURVEY REMINDER
Birdwatch Ireland asked us to remind members of the public that they can still help with the Garden Bird Survey until February by keeping note of the highest number of each bird species visiting their garden each week. Please send your garden bird records online, by email or by post to Birdwatch Ireland. Further details available at https://birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/surveys-research/researchsurveys/irish-garden-bird-survey/
KILKENNY CASTLE CHILD FRIENDLY GUIDED TOURS
OPW Kilkenny Castle will host a series of free Child Friendly Guided Tours of the castle during February. Why not join one of their guides and view the beautiful period rooms in a more relaxed environment. These tours are aimed at school going aged children and their families. Free events but booking is essential as places are limited. To check out the dates and reservations go to https://kilkennycastle.ie/ event/child-friendly-tours/. They will also host free Sensory Friendly Tours during February. Check it out at https://kilkennycastle.ie/ calendar/
GOWRAN PANTO
MEET THE CAST Michael Brown as Hansel!
A er a well-deserved (no choice) hiatus Michael treads the boards again this year as the not-too-smart twelve year old Hansel (oh no he’s NOT!!). Following previous years’ performances as a Dandini and Orville the Pidgicken (that’s a cross between a pigeon and a chicken) this should be a walk in the forest... as long as everyone can understand his Kiwi accent. Michael is also involved in stage, set, prop design and construction and steps out of his previous role as backstage manager. Be sure to book your tickets at www.gowranpanto.com
The Panto takes place in Gowran Parish Hall on 14, 15, 17 and 18 February at 8pm with a matinee on 19 at 3pm. Tickets are selling very fast. Special family o er available on 14 and 15, €35 for 2 adults and 2 children and couple o er available on valentines night, 2 tickets for €20.
YOUNG IRELANDS GAA
Member registration for the 2023 season is open through the Clubforce App or the following link: https://bit.ly/3X4BcII
This needs to be completed by 28th February in order to get everyone registered and insured in time. The club encourages at least one parent to become non playing members of the club.
GOWRAN PARK Redmills Race Day takes place on Saturday, 18th February. First race
is at approximately 1pm.
GOWRAN ATHLETICS CLUB
The 123.ie National Intermediate, Masters, and Juvenile B Cross Country Championships takes place on Sunday, 12th February at Gowran Demesne, Kilkenny. Spectator Tickets available at https:// bit.ly/3HNmP61
GOWRAN DEVELOPMENT
GOWRAN AND DUNGARVAN COMMUNITY ALERTS 2023
Contributions Are Now Due. €10 per mobile phone number. Please pay by 27th Feb 2023. If you are already a member, you can pay online at www.communityalerts.ie. If you are not yet a member or if you prefer to pay o line, you can join by using one of the dedicated Envelopes available in Hennessy’s Garage or Gowran Pharmacy. Complete your details carefully as per the instructions on the envelope and drop it back to the dedicated box.
SPORT WITH MICHAEL O’LEARY
JULIE STRIKES INJURY-TIME WINNER AS LORETO QUALIFY FOR ALL-IRELAND
Julie Lennon was the toast of Loreto Kilkenny, as she struck over the winning point to qualify the city school into The All-Ireland Senior Colleges Roinn A Final a er a 3-13 to 3-12 win against Ursuline Thurles following an epic battle in Jenkinstown last Saturday Lunchtime.
Julie who is part of The Loreto set-up along with fellow Young Irelands player Marie O’Kee e displayed remarkable composure to fire over the winner deep into stoppage-time & provide a most fitting conclusion to one of the great Schools Matches.
Loreto Kilkenny now have an All-Ireland Final to look forward to against either Ulster or Connacht opposition in the next few weeks.
ST KIERANS LOOSE
Their was disappointment for Padraig Naddy and his St. Kierans College Teammates who lost out 1-16 to 1-14 to an O aly Schools Selection in the Leinster Senior Colleges Final in Nowlan Park last Saturday A ernoon.
St. Kierans will now turn their attention to The All-Ireland Series, a competition that the O aly Schools can’t compete in as they are an amalgamation of Schools.
YOUNG IRELANDS 2023 MEMBERSHIP
2023 Membership for both Young Irelands GAA & Camogie Clubs can now be paid. You can check out The Young Irelands GAA & Camogie Club pages on Facebook for further details and follow The Link https://member.clubforce.com/memberships
YOUNG IRELANDS WEBSITE
Young Irelands have a new website. Check out https://www.youngirelandsgaa.ie/ for further details where you can get all the latest news & also featured is a Special Video Gallery where you can find plenty of archive material incluing County Finals of years gone by.
The club is looking to reach out to anybody that has DVD’s or even VHS of Young Irelands matches or events to contact Michael Phelan 087 8047495. They will then organise to get any old formats converted and uploaded to this new website.
CAMOGIE
Congratulations to Emma Mulhall, Amy Lawless and Ava McCabe who were part of the Loreto Convent panel who dramatically won their All-Ireland Post Primary Senior Camogie Semi-Final by a single point against Ursuline Convent, Thurles on Saturday last. The game itself was played in Jenkinstown in front of a very large crowd. Best of luck to the girls in the All-Ireland Final.
FOOTBALL
The intermediate footballers received a walkover from GraigueBallycallan in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Intermediate League last weekend. They will now face Glenmore in their next outing this weekend.
CLUB LOTTO
The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 1, 27 and 42. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Siobhan Hennessy, Jim & Caitriona Tierney, Jack Fitzpatrick, Paudie Brennan and Helen and Mick Cahill. The promoters’ prize winners were Teresa Dollard, Nora Delaney and Kay Phelan. This week’s jackpot now increases to €1,900.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
The members of the Conahy Conference of St Vincent de Paul wish to thanks all in the locality who contributed to their recent Christmas Church Outdoor Collection at all parish massed. They also wish to remind all in the local community that if anybody finds themselves in
di iculty, please do not hesitate to contact them on (086) 0519893 in strictest confidence.
CLUB LOTTO
Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 2nd February Nos: 9 10 12 32
Jackpot: €7250 Not Won
Draw Prizes – €50: John Egan c/o online. €25 each Jimmy Comerford c/o Jim Murphy €25 each Therese Long c/o Rita Long. €25 each James Wise c/o Online Hurlers Co Op Martina Tyrrell c/o Joe Phelan. Promotors prize Tom & Joan Knox
New weeks draw €7400.Thank you for your continued support.
CLUB REGISTERATION
Members can now renew their membership directly through ClubZap for the 2023 season and instalment options are available. The club asks that all members renew their membership as soon as possible and in particular before teams return to training or games over the next number of weeks.
SCHOOLS CAMOGIE
Congrats to Loreto Kilkenny who have qualified for the All Ireland Snr Camogie Colleges A Final. Loreto defeated Ursuline Thurles by one point in a nail biting match. We are very proud of the 11 boro girls who are on the Loreto Panel. Well done to Rose, Aisling, Rachel, Amy, Angela, Caoimhe, Tara, Amy, Isabelle Fahy, Izzy and Isabelle Roberts.
ANN PURCELL RIP
The death occurred unexpectedly at the Mater Hospital, Dublin of Ann Purcell (nee Nolan) Station Road, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny and formerly of Templeorum, Piltown.
At Ann’s Requiem Mass in St Bennett’s Church, Canon Pat Duggan extended the sympathy of the parish to her husband Pierce. He shared some memories of the Nolan family who had been near neighbours of his back in the day. Ann had lived in Bennettsbridge for forty years and was highly regarded by all. She and Pierce were a very united couple and had celebrated their ruby wedding anniversary in December. They had many shared interests, including, horse racing, GAA, dancing and bingo.
Religion played an important part in their lives and they travelled extensively to religious shrines all over the world, one visit was to the Shrine of St Blaise and it was particularly poignant that Ann’s remains were received in the church on the Feast of St Blaise.
Family and neighbours took part in the Liturgy and the O ertory gi s reflected her many interests – these included, a Lourdes relic, rosary beads, Kilkenny jersey and a copy of the Racing Post.
Organist Helen Hughes and soloist Martina Burke provided music throughout the ceremony.
Ann’s niece, Eva, spoke on behalf of the family. She thanked the nurses and doctors who looked a er Ann. She acknowledged the help of neighbours and friends who supported Pierce during the funeral. Finally she thanked Pierce for the loving care and attention given to Ann throughout her life.
Ann was predeceased by her brothers John, Michael and Nicky. She will be greatly missed by her loving husband Pierce, sister-in-law Peggy, brothers-in-law Michael, Martin, Christy, Willie and Johnny, cousin, Michael, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Interment was in the adjoining cemetery
SYMPATHY
Sympathy is extended to the Nolan family, Dunbell on the tragic death of James recently.
CREDIT UNION QUIZ
Congratulations to Bennettsbridge school, winners of the U 13 section of the Thomastown Credit Union Quiz recently.
SYMPATHY
Sympathy is extended to Una Kirwan, Sugarstown and the O’Farrell family on the death of Una’s father, Jimmy O’Farrell, The Rectory, Thomastown.
CHURCH NEWS
Mass times this week, Thursday and Friday mornings at 10.30am.
ART GROUP
The Art Group will take a break this week and will resume classes on Monday 13th February. It’s been a very enjoyable start to the term with artists using oils, some for the first time. Tutor, Julie Moorhouse has been with the group and her expertise and patience is legendary. The group welcomed a number of students from Ukraine in recent weeks and while the language is a challenge it is great to be able to include them in our community.
TIDY TOWNS
The local Tidy Towns volunteers have started their 2023 campaign. Some work was carried out on the Community garden last week. These volunteers have been involved in keeping our community tidy for a good many years now. They would welcome any new members who might have a few hours to spare on Saturday mornings. Members of the Art Group will carry out some much needed painting on the seat in the community garden when the weather is favourable.
GATHERING GROUP
The Gathering group continues each Wednesday from 11am. Members enjoy catching up on news while having a cuppa and biscuits. Some gentle chair exercises follow and the morning winds up with a game of bingo.
ST PATRICKS DAY
Date for your diary. The Annual Irish Dancing Display will be held this year on St Patrick’s Day in the Community Centre. This event is a collaboration between Stella Carroll School of Dancing and Bennettsbridge Ladies Club. Dancers will compete for the Kathleen Conway Memorial Trophy. Proceeds will go to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team.
LOTTO
Result 30th January. No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 19, 20, 22, 25. Jackpot now €5,050.00. Consolation Prizes, Laura Kane, Kilree. De Bally Boys. Pauline Dowling, Marian Place. Tricia Keogh, Hillview. The Healy family, Gorey.
CAMOGIE PRESENTATION
Huge thanks to five times All Ireland winning Camogie great, Rita
O’Neill who presented County medals to Bennetsbridge Camogie Club’s U12 County Final winning team. Pictured in the GAA complex were, Deirdre Cullen, Chairperson of Bennettsbridge Camogie Club, Katie Mulcahy (joint captain),Rita O’Neill and Katie Holden, (joint captain)
CLOTHES COLLECTION
Thanks to all who supported the New Year Clothes collection which proved very successful.
GAA
Bennettsbridge Healthy Club
Let’s get Bennettsbridge walking. Download my life app. Follow instructions on flyer.
We will walk as a group Wednesday nights 7pm to 8pm. Meet at GAA grounds. Alternate between pitch and village streets weather dependent. Let’s get walking and light up Bennettsbridge. Ireland lights up is in conjuction with RTE Operation Transformation. All welcome to join at any time, simply download the app and join in.
MEMBERSHIP 2023
Membership for 2023 is now been collected by registrar Samantha McGarry or any committee member. Membership remains the same as last year. 120 for adult players, 80 for student players and 40 euro for non-playing members. Early payment would be most appreciated as the bills for 2023 start to come in.
INTERCOUNTY HURLING
Well done to David Blanchfield and the Kilkenny team who defeated Antrim in the opening round of the league. Best of luck against Tipperary next Sunday.
BUY A BRICK CAMPAIGN
We are in our fourth year of our “buy a brick” campaign. Thanks to everyone who has supported so far. Anyone new who wishes to contribute please see BBGAADEV@gmail.com.
All contributions go towards club development and repayment of the loan on the club house as quickly as possible.
FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP
Bennettsbridge footballers began their campaign with a good win away to Emer-alds last Saturday. Leading 1-4 to 0-3 at half time the ‘Bridge held o late Emeralds pressure to win 3-8 to 1-10. The next game is against Ballyragget on Sunday next ,the minor and under 13 teams are also in action next weekend. Please check the Kilkenny GAA website for details. Best of luck to the all the teams.
COLLEGES HURLING
Hard luck to Bill Hughes, Timmy Kelly and James Hughes who were part of the St Kieran’s team that lost out to O aly schools in the Leinster final at the weekend. Best wishes to all our club mates in action in the Fitzgibbon cup at the moment.
SPLIT THE POT
The next draw takes place today Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse.
If you want to play online with club force please see the clubs Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.
SYMPATHY
Sympathy is extended to Ned Tracy, Donoughmore, Johnstown, one of our post people, who has been bereaved by the death of his mother Mrs Patricia Tracy RIP, Clonakenny Roscrea.
ENROLMENTS
St. Kieran’s National School is now open for junior infants and all classes for Sept. 23. Information and forms from 0568831611 or email johnstownns@gmail.com.
St. Michael’s National School is also open for enrolments. Information from 0568831753 or email o ice@crosspatrickns.com.
CAKE SALE
Galmoy Parents Association are holding a cake sale on Sunday Feb. 12th in the Community Hall a er 10.15am Mass. Donations of buns, cakes bread, etc., welcome and may be le into the hall from 9.45am.
JOHNSTOWN HERITAGE GROUP.....
Johnstown Heritage Group will host a talk by Larry Scallan in St. Kieran’s Hall on Saturday Feb 18th a er 8pm Mass. Talk is entitled 2nd Battalion, Johnstown District , The Civil War and other related stories. All are welcome.
SPA UNITED AFC....
WEEKEND RESULTS
Schoolboys/girls Football Association of Ireland U12 National Cup result Portlaoise AFC 0 Spa United 1 (Charlie Moriarty). Well done to the boys on their great win. They have now progressed into the last 16 and will next travel to meet the winners of Aisling Annacotty or New Ross Town. U16 boys league division 1A Dean Celtic 5 Spa 1, U14 boys league division 2 Evergreen 1 Spa 5, U12 boys league division 1 Spa 3 Freshford Town 1, U11 boys Doran Cup Spa 2 Thomastown United 3, U10 boys Gerry O’Reilly Cup Freebooters 5 Spa 0, U14 girls league division 1 Callan Utd. 0 Spa 4, U14 girls league division 2 Southend 5 Spa 0.
SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO...
Winning numbers 3,13,15,26. Two match three Angela Grace and Shannon and Johnny Moriarty. Next weeks jackpot €19,100.
CHURCH NOTES
MASS TIMES
From Saturday the 4th of February evening Mass will begin in Glengoole at 6.00pm and Mass in Gortnahoe on Sunday morning at 10.30am. Please note the change of time for Glengoole.
CASHEL AND EMLY DOICESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES
The annual pilgrimage will take place from the 17th - 22nd June 2023, anyone interested in the Parish please contact the Parish council for further information.
GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE DEFIB GROUP
The group regrets to inform the parishioners that the group is no longer viable and has ceased all operations with immediate e ect. The contact numbers are no longer in service. In case of emergency, or should you require assistance, please dial 999 or 112. The group thanks all who supported them over the 13 years of service to the community.
TUESDAY BRIDGE
Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106
GORTNAHOE BINGO
Bingo continues each Saturday night in Gortnahoe Hall. There was a full attendance last Saturday night, the prize money of over €2,660 was a huge attraction. Bingo continues this Saturday at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er including a special €500 game. Parish support would be appreciated.
SPLIT THE POT
Congratulations to Bridget Hennessey from Urlingford, a member of the Bridge Club who won €220 in last Sunday’s draw. Envelopes are
available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot will be in support of the purchase of card tables for the Bridge club in the Hall. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated
400 CLUB DRAW
The results for January 2023, 1st Prize 200 was Willie Joe and Fiona Stapleton, Ballysloe, 2nd Prize €100 was Eddie and Mary Ryan, Gortnahoe. Other prize winners were, Alicia O’Keefe, Ballysloe, Barth O’Keefe, Ballysloe, John and Anne Lyons, Graigue, Martha Purcell, Coole, Sally Kelly, Grangecastle, Pat and Rena O’Connor, Ballynonty, Eva Horan, Foilacamin and Emmett Kavanagh, Urlingford. Promoters
Prize Winner, Sarah McCormack
EVERY STEP COUNTS CHALLENGE
Join the walking group on Wednesday evenings 7-8pm in GAA grounds to walk the combined 4,000 km trip around Ireland. Register on the MyLife app or contact Paula or Olivia McCormack.
MASS TIMES
Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday 11th. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 12th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Wednesday 8th. at 7.00p.m. Vigil - Saturday 11th. at 6.30p.m.; Saturday 11th. Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes (World Day of Prayer for the Sick)
Blessing of Throats will take place a er Masses on this weekend.
PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses, Christopher Lodge, Kells: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 11th. at 6.30p.m. Bernard Cuddihy, Ballinteskin; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 11th. at 8.00p.m. William and Margaret O’Meara, Croan and Julie Morrissey, Croan: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 12th. at 10.00a.m.
ROTA
Rota for next week-end: 11th. and 12th. February 2023 (Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time)
Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tony Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan; Sunday 10.00a.m. Marie Ryan. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Murphy; Sunday 10.00a.m. Kay Power.
NEWMARKET SCHOOL
The School is now taking enrolments for September 2023 and for A er-School Care.
Please contact 089 257 2031 or mbrennan@newmarketns.ie
LOTTO
Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 30th.
January.2023. Numbers: 25; 24; 18; 08. No Winner First 3 Numbers
Drawn: No Jackpot Winner: 5 x €30.00 Winners: Daniel Doyle, Hugginstown; Stephen Long, Stoneyford; Leo O’Gorman, Hugginstown; Peter Hoyne, Newmarket; Marie Fitzpatrick, Gowlawn.
3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Jimmy Sheehan; Teresa Fitzgerald; Deirdre Rohan
FIRST PENANCE AND FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PREPARATION
All children and families are invited to attend the weekend Masses during Lent as part of this preparation. Parents will be involved in the Readings and the Communion Reflection while the children will be involved in the Prayers of the Faithful and the O ertory Gi s. Masses in Stoneyford on Saturdays February 25th. March 4th.; 11th.; 18th.; 25th. at 6.30p.m.
Masses in Hugginstown on Sundays February 26th.; March 5th.; 12th.; 19th.; 26th. at 10.00a.m.
First Penance will be Celebrated in Stoneyford on Wednesday 8th. March at 7.00p.m.
First Penance will be Celebrated in Hugginstown on Monday 13th. March at 7.00p.m.
First Holy Communion in Stoneyford Church on Sunday 14th. May at 11.00a.m.
First Holy Communion in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 21st. May at 11.00a.m.
OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 2023
Lourdes Pilgrimage will take place from May 23rd. to 28th. this year. Accommodation in the Agena, Solitude and Padoue Hotels. Price includes return bus journey to/from Loughboy Shopping Centre Car Park to Dublin Airport. Return flights from Dublin to Lourdes; Transfer to/from Airport to Hotel; Full board and hotel accommodation for the 5 nights.For further information and bookings contact niamh@ jwttravel.ie or Phone 01 685 2244
MONROE SCHOOL
Monroe School is now taking Enrolments for September 2023. Please phone 056 776 8931 or email school on snmoinruadh@gmail.com for an Enrolment Form.
SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS
Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Kathleen Sherry Tel: 087 100 0232.
Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Teresa Broderick and Carmel
O’Toole
CARRICKSHOCK GAA
Carrickshock G.A.A. and Carrickshock Camogie Clubs are hosting a joint Dinner Dance on Saturday 11th. February. Tickets are now on sale for the Dinner Dance at 086 257 1713 or https://tinyurl.com/356wyse4
GROUNDPERSON (CE SCHEME)
The Community Employment Scheme is looking to recruit a Groundperson for the area around Hugginstown and Newmarket.
Duties to include: General Up-Keep and Cleaning of Community Areas, Walkways, Graveyards and Flower Beds, Cutting Grass, Hedge Cutting and Litter Removal.
If you are interested, Please contact the Supervisor, Paul Kealy, Tel. 087 958 2709. at St. Canice’s Community Employment Training CLG. Eligibility to participate on CE Scheme is generally linked to those who are 21 years or over and in receipt of a qualifying Social Welfare Payment for over one year.
BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR
SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE
Antrim 0-15
Kilkenny 1-18
Kilkenny had to work hard to leave Belfast with maximum points after a real titanic tussle with Antrim in very challenging conditions. While the margin at the long whistle was 6 points, it took the Cats almost 65 minutes to begin shaking o the stubborn Sa ron challenge.
Sunday’s opponents Tipperary cruised to victory over Willie Maher’s Laois at FBD Semple Stadium and will bring a di erent puzzle for Derek Lyng & Co to solve when they roll into UPMC Nowlan Park.
With a strong wind blowing at the foot of Black Mountain, Antrim won the toss and opted to play with the wind. is decision was backed by the home side registering the rst score of the day through the hard-working James McNaughton. Kilkenny drew level shortly after when young goalkeeper Aidan Tallis struck over a lovely long-range free from his own half.
Antrim edged ahead when Dublin whistler Chris Mooney adjudged Billy Ryan to have over-carried and Dunloy’s Conal Cunning made no
mistake from the placed ball. e referee was keen to blow, especially on any handpass that even vaguely gave the appearance of being illegal! e visitors then took a lovely point when Walter Walsh popped a nice pass to O’Loughlin’s Paddy Deegan, who made no mistake from out on the right side of the park. e next score on the board in Belfast came from Clara’s Paul Cody
after 7 minutes but fresh from his side’s All-Ireland club nal defeat to Shamrocks Ballyhale, Conal Cunning stepped up and slotted over another free to tie things up again. Another of the Dunloy contingent, goalkeeper Ryan Elliott was then blown-up for lying on the ball and Galmoy’s Billy Drennan opened his account for the day from his second opportunity.
From the restart; Kilkenny intercepted Antrim’s attempt to play out of defence and the ball was worked to Cian Kenny whose goalbound e ort who superbly saved by young Elliott. e sliotar was then recycled and worked out the pitch to omastown’s John Donnelly who red over from distance to leave two points between the sides. en came what was to be the
Plenty to work on ahead of Tipp visit
game’s most decisive moment.
Padraig Walsh won the ball deep in the Cats defence before passing to Paddy Deegan. e O’Loughlin’s man struck a lovely searching ball into Billy Drennan who cut inside his marker before unleashing a ne shot beyond the dive of Ryan Elliott to the Antrim net. at nish encapsulated exactly the reason manager Derek Lyng has brought the young attacker into the senior
pass’ crusade, this time harshly penalising Paddy Deegan.
Conal Cunning took full advantage and pointed the free.
All-Ireland nal goal-scorer, Billy Ryan then struck over a point with about 3 minutes left to leave his side up by three points.
As the clock reached 70 minutes, Mossy Keoghan emerged from a scramble to ri e over to leave it a 2-score game.
omastown’s John Donnelly then created an opportunity for Billy Drennan who took full advantage and struck over to make absolutely sure that the rst league points of the season would be for those in very wet black and amber. ere was just enough time for e Sash’s Mossy Keoghan to re over his 3rd point of the game. Final score from Corrigan Park, Antrim 0-15, Kilkenny 1-18.
Antrim: Ryan Elliott; Paddy Burke (0-01), Ryan McGarry, Niall
O’Connor; Gerard Walsh, Eoghan Campbell, Conall Bohill (0-01); Michael Bradley, Joe Maskey; Niall McKenna (0-02), Keelan Molloy (0-01), James McNaughton (0-01); Conal Cunning (0-08, all frees), Neil McManus (0-01), Eoin O’Neill.
Subs: Phelim Du n for N O’Connor (HT), Seaan Elliott for E O’Neill (HT), Conor Johnston for J Maskey (43), Paul Boyle for K Molloy (65),
Kilkenny: Aidan Tallis (0-01 free); Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Niall Rowe; Cillian Buckley, Padraig Walsh, David Blanch eld; Paddy Deegan (0-01), John Donnelly (0-01); Walter Walsh (0-01), Cian Kenny, Paul Cody (0-02); Billy Drennan (1-08, 0-07 frees), Martin Keoghan (0-03) Billy Ryan (0-01)
Subs: Shane Murphy for Paul Cody (HT), Tom Phelan for Cian Kenny (63), Alan Murphy for Walter Walsh (68), Gearóid Dunne for John Donnelly (70+4) Referee: Chris Mooney (Dublin)
panel this season. e accurate Cunning then
popped over another free before goal-scorer Drennan did the same at the other end. e Noresiders then gifted the ball to Darren Gleeson’s side and wing-back Conal Bohill reduced the Cats lead to four points with almost twenty minutes played. Conal Cunning added to his tally just 3 minutes later from another placed ball. A long ball out of the Kilkenny defence was beautifully plucked out of the air by Billy Drennan who fed the supporting Paul Cody and he duly obliged and split the posts.
Galmoy’s Drennan then nailed another free to bring his total for the day to 1-3 and extend the visitors lead to ve points. Derek Lyng’s men were then caught sleeping when a quickly taken sideline cut by Joe Maskey to the alert veteran Neil McManus who struck a quality score from near the sideline. e Sa rons followed that score with another well taken point, this time from Niall McKenna after a wonderful catch by James McNaughton.
You could sense some frustration from the Kilkenny bench, those taking on the shots were struggling to judge the wind that was blowing and swirling all over Corrigan Park. Despite this, the Cats almost swooped for a second major. A misplaced pass across the Antrim defence by Niall O’Connor was pounced upon by Cian Kenny who struck his shot across the Sa rons goal and wide. Kilkenny wanted to kill the game and pull away from their hosts, but perhaps a point may have been the better option.
Captain for the day, Cillian Buckley then picked out Walter Walsh with a lovely pass and the Tullougher-Rosbercon man struck over a ne score. e sides swapped scores in rst half injury time, rst up was Antrim’s Niall McKenna then Tullaroan’s Mossy Keoghan ri ed over after good work from Bennettbridge’s David Blanch eld to leave the score at the interval, Antrim 0-9, Kilkenny 1-10.
When the sides emerged from the Corrigan Park changing rooms, Derek Lyng had replaced Clara’s Paul Cody with Glenmore’s Shane Murphy. e biggest change was in the weather, the wind appeared to have whipped up even more, but the rain was really chucking it down which was to make the second half even more di cult to play in than the rst.
e rst real scoring opportunity of the second period came from Kilkenny. Some lovely short passing between Walter Walsh and Paddy Deegan, saw the sliotar worked to Graigue-Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan whose shot whistled past the Antrim posts. Again, you could see Lyng’s men going for the jugular. Dunloy’s Cunning got the scoreboard moving in the second half when he struck over another placed ball to leave just Drennan’s goal between the sides. Talking of Drennan, the lively attacker struck the game’s next two points, both from free’s after Cillian Buckley and Billy Ryan had been fouled. Antrim can count themselves lucky not to have been reduced to 14-men following the foul on Billy Ryan, who appeared to take a stick to the helmet. e conditions certainly helped the Sa rons, as referee Mooney probably didn’t see the incident as clearly as he would have on a better day.
Keelan Molloy who had hardly touched the sliotar in the game, then red over a cracking score before two further points from Darren Gleeson’s men, the rst a great e ort from Cushendall’s Paddy Burke, roving up the pitch, taking a nice pass from Cunning before splitting the posts, before Cunning added another placed ball to his tally, to make it a 2-point game. Antrim were battling and showing great hunger, the home supporters sensed that an unlikely victory might just be possible.
e Cats needed a score and again it came from the accuracy of Glamoy’s Drennan’s free-taking after Billy Ryan was fouled. Referee Mooney then continued his ‘hand-
Ok. I want to start with reflecting on Antrim manager Darren Gleeson’s comments after his sides defeat at home to Kilkenny. The former Tipp netminder suggested that the Cats got away with their physicality, while the Saffrons were penalised. Darren, I only saw one possible red-card challenge – that was Paddy Burke’s hurl into the helmet of Billy Ryan. End of. Back to the hurling. Conditions were typical of those in early February. Windy, wet, cold. The Corrigan Park pitch was anything but conducive to good hurling. The new ‘smart-sliotar’ didn’t roll on or bounce-up, it was tricky for both sides. The elements favoured the home side in the first half, and did again in the second, as the wind appeared to change during the break.
Importantly for Kilkenny, Derek Lyng’s men secured maximum points. That’s the main thing. The manager clearly wants his side to go for goal, and they did come close on a few occasions, along with the one green flag raised by star man Billy Drennan. With more games hopefully the ruthlessness will come.
Billy Drennan finished with 1-8 and was accurate throughout the game. He is adjusting to senior hurling nicely. For me, Padraig Walsh and Paddy Deegan were the real catalysts in the Cats opening round win. Stand-in captain Cillian Buckley also put his shoulder to the wheel and ensured the home side didn’t build serious momentum throughout the afternoon in Belfast. Next up for Lyng’s men is the visit of Tipperary on Sunday. That will be a tougher challenge for the Cats and one that the manager will hope results in a second Allianz league victory for his side.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Sarah and Justin Fox for permission consequent on the grant of outline planning permission Ref No: 21/810 to construct a dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater treatment system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Baunlusk, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Eoin Larkin intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing garage and store and all associated site development works at 66 Roselawn, Bolton Woods, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Eamonn Brennan hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for a development at Kilmanaheen, Dungarvan, Co. Kilkenny. The development consists of the construction of a single storey office and games room.
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.
Anniversary Mass will be held in St. John’s Church, Saturday morning, February 18th at 10.30am.
In loving memory of Seamus (Seamie) Walsh, late of Maryville, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny whose second anniversary occurs on 11th February.
Your needs in life were simple, Your love for us was true, As long as we were happy, You were happy too.
You taught us many things in life, Always good and true, But you never taught us how to cope, With the pain of losing you.
Sadly missed and always in the thoughts, prayers and hearts of your loving wife Chrissie and family.
Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 11th February at 7pm in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Castlecomer.
In loving memory of Joe Minogue, late of 7 Newtown Terrace, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny who died on February 5th 1999. Aged 79 years
After Glow
I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one I’d like to leave an after glow of smiles when life is done I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days
I’d like the tear of those who grieve to dry before the sun of happy memories that I leave when life is done.
Always loved and remembered by his loving wife Alice and family.
In loving memory of our loving mother, grandmother and wonderful sister Anne O’Neill who died on 16th February 2021 R.I.P
You left this world so quickly
We still wonder why
For the saddest part of all
You never said goodbye
You left us so many memories
To us you were so dear
No matter when we needed you
We always found you near
You gave us all you had to give
Gifts both big and small
But most of all you gave us love
The greatest gift of all
From your loving daughters and sons, Ann, Susan and Elizabeth, Paddy Brendan, Andrew, Gareth, David, Thomas and also Edward (RIP), your grandchildren, great grandchild, nieces and newphews, sisters and brothers.
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.
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.G.T.
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.V.T.
