Kilkenny Observer 10 July 2026

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Cancer: not good news

Luke’s only meets treatment target date in 67.3% of cases Your health versus illness and potential recovery can very much depend on your place of residence, according to a damning report to the Government from the Irish Cancer Society, who say a stark divide remains in how fast cancer patients can access vital treatment depending on where they live.

The Irish Cancer Society

points to how the radiotherapy network covering St Luke’s and St James’s and Beaumont hospitals in Dublin is only meeting the 15-day target for patient access to treatment in 67.3% of cases – barely seven in 10 people suffering from cancers.

This means the treatment target is missed in almost

one-third of cases.

This figure compares with 82.6% in the north-west, 83.7% in Limerick, 89.3% in Galway, 91.3% in Cork and 97.9% in Waterford.

The variations are set out in the charity’s pre-Budget submission, calling for significant Government investment in capital planning and cancer care infrastruc-

ture, as well as measures to alleviate the financial hardship of a cancer diagnosis.

Targets to begin chemotherapy treatments for 90% of patients within 15 days are also being missed, with figures as low as 61.5% in St Luke’s Hospital, 66.2% in Waterford and 68.8% in Cork.

But no patient has been left

waiting in Cavan or Connolly Hospital in Dublin.

Variations have emerged in timely access to surgery, with just 39.7% of lung cancer patients operated on within the target last year in the Mater Hospital, Dublin, compared with 86.6% in Cork University Hospital.

Aoife Habenicht (39), a cervical cancer survivor and

Waterford has withdrawn its Ferrybank court action

Houses in Kilkenny up €25k in a year Property prices in Kilkenny have risen by €25,000 in the last year, according to the latest MyHome Property Price Report.

The report for Q2 2026, in association with Bank of Ireland, shows that the median asking price for a property in the county is now €275,000. That means prices have risen €20,000 over the quarter.

Asking prices for a 3-bed semidetached house in the county rose by €20,000 in the last year to €245,000. This means prices rose by €6,000 over the quarter.

Meanwhile, the asking price for a 4-bed semi-detached house in Kilkenny rose €22,500 in the last year to €332,500.

This price also rose by €22,500 over the quarter.

There were 267 properties for sale in Kilkenny at the end of Q2 2026 – an increase of 30% over the quarter.

The average time for a property to go sale agreed in the county after being placed up for sale now stands at just over two months.

The author of the report, Conall MacCoille, Chief Economist at Bank of Ireland, said that the key question now was whether buyers would actually be able to meet the elevated asking prices we are seeing.

“Our data, while surprising, does not suggest vendors are being unrealistic.

Through May and June transactions were being settled 7-8% above the original asking price – if anything signalling more intense competition amongst homebuyers.”

mother of two from Kilcullen, Co Kildare, told of the heartbreak she faced during her treatment on a linear accelerator (Linac) radiotherapy machine which was 18 years old.

“I underwent 25 sessions of radiation therapy and six were delayed because the machine broke down,” she said.

Waterford has withdrawn its High Court action against Kilkenny’s green-lit plans for Ferrybank Shopping Centre. The move clears the way for Dunnes Stores to move into the centre.

This decision follows a significant delay and careful deliberation, culminating in the High Court’s withdrawal of the judicial review proceedings. The withdrawal was made after the court indicated that it would not find in Waterford City and County Council’s favour.

This outcome is a positive development for the Ferrybank community and the shopping centre.

Bill to tighten under-18 law

Our EU in the frame Six winning photographers have been announced in the inaugural ‘Our Ireland, Our EU’ Photo Competition, a national initiative celebrating the positive impact of Government and EU co-funded projects and initiatives across Ireland.

Winner in Category One is Ruth Tapial with her photo entitled Vigilant Commodore, taken at Crescent Quay, Wexford.

Full story Page 10

The Seanad is debating a Bill on age verification introduced by Senator Rónán Mullen.

The Protection of Children (Online Age Verification) Bill 2026 makes it a criminal offence if “website controllers” fail to ensure that online pornographic content is not accessible to any underage person in the State.

Under Senator Mullen’s Bill, the age verification rule will also apply to application store services and to any “provider of an online service that facilitates the creation or generation of pornographic content online, including by way of the use of Artificial Intelligence”.

The Bill is an updated version of legislation introduced in 2024.

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News

in Seeking SuperLoo flushed with success Cleere welcome

The hunt is on across the country from top to bottom in the next few weeks to find Ireland’s next SuperLoo. Dyno-Rod, the drainage experts, are urging owners of respectable restrooms in Kilkenny to enter them in the nationwide competition that will see one publicly usable loo take the national title and assume the SuperLoo throne.

The competition was run back in 1992 and was won

by Slieve Russell Hotel in Cavan. Now, more than three decades later, SuperLoo returns to crown a new champion of Irish bathroom excellence.

This is not a competition for posh potties. It’s a celebration of WCs with character, charm, practicality and high standards. It’s about loos in every setting – from cafés, cinemas and clubs to garages, offices and libraries – that customers will remember for the right reasons.

Dyno-Rod was founded 50 years ago by Chairman Peter Crowley, who initiated the original SuperLoo competition in the 90s. He said: “From decades of Dyno-Rod travelling the country, the toilets at any facility are without a doubt the gauge of customer experience. SuperLoo was created to celebrate the businesses across Ireland that take genuine pride in

for local funding

maintaining tidy, organised, accessible and well-maintained public restrooms.

“We have worked with almost every type of business for decades to maintain the facilities their customers rely on every single day. SuperLoo is a chance for businesses to highlight their stan-

dards at a national level.”

Businesses can nominate their bathrooms at superloo. ie and these will be judged on the following criteria: • Cleanliness • Comfort • Accessibility • Style and character

• Smell and ventilation • Hand-drying facilities • Hygiene products provided • Ease of maintenance • Cleaning standards • Toilet paper ply level • Toilet paper holder positioning • Overall customer experience

Adjudicators will review every application and shortlist ten entries to face a public vote to decide the destination of the 2026 SuperLoo title.

Closing date for applications is Friday, July 17.

Comment, Marianne Heron, Page 12

Fianna Fáil TD for CarlowKilkenny, Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere, has warmly welcomed the announcement that Kilkenny and Carlow will receive a combined total of €326,591.95 under the Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2026 to support community organisations and voluntary groups across the constituency.

Under the funding announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, Carlow has been allocated €156,072.58, while Kilkenny will receive €170,519.37.

Deputy Cleere said: “These grants may be relatively small in scale, but they make a significant difference to the day-today work of community organisations, helping them improve facilities, purchase equipment and continue providing essential services to local people.”

Deputy Cleere also welcomed funding for a number of groups across the constituency, including Borris Scout Group, Bagenalstown Family Resource Centre, Rathanna Village Group, Freshford Town AFC and Graiguenamanagh GAA Club.

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Subsidy plan for farmers to take a break ... or two Under the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) agreement, farmers could be subsidised for annual holidays and sick leave.

The measures are aimed at providing replacement labour for everything from sickness and bereavement to training courses and annual holidays, under proposals aimed

at tackling one of the sector’s most persistent problems — the difficulty of getting time away from the farm.

It comes as figures show that dairy farmers take just 19 days off in total a year, while 63% of beef farmers are forced to work off-farm due to poor incomes, using up to 19 days of annual leave for farm work, and 87%

of Irish farms rely primarily on family workers.

While the measure is contained within draft plans for the next CAP, FRS Co-Op — which offers farm relief services — has now set out how it believes the scheme could work in practice in Ireland, submitting a detailed proposal to the Department of Agriculture.

Under the model put forward

by FRS, farmers would receive labour credits that could be used to access relief milking, general farm labour and specialist farm services when required. The credits would be allocated based on factors such as farm size, enterprise type and income.

The proposal centres on the

creation of a National Farm Relief Service Scheme, operated through a network of regional FRS centres and supported by a digital platform that would match farmers with available workers.

FRS Head of Agriculture Neil Keane told the Farming Independent that the importance of the proposal goes beyond

simply providing holiday cover.

The measures would help to reduce stress among farmers, improve work-life balance and make farming a more attractive career option.

The EU proposal to fund farm relief services has received support from farm organisations.

School use of iPad causing digital divide and expense The compulsive use in schools of computer tablets is creating a wanton “digital divide” in post-primary education, researchers have said.

Device packages in some schools cost between €600 and €1,000, including a laptop or tablet, accessories, insurance and other items.

Dr Ann Marcus-Quinn from the University of Limerick and Professor Selina McCoy of the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) co-authored a working paper and surveyed the websites of more than 700 post-primary schools.

They found that three in 10 schools mandated the purchase of such devices.

Just 17% of DEIS schools required students to have a device, while the figure for non-DEIS schools was 37%.

It was a similar story for fee-paying schools, where 37% of schools mandated the devices. Researchers concluded that without “greater State co-ordination and strategic intervention”, there is a risk of inequalities in the Irish education system growing.

Dr Marcus-Quinn told the Irish Independent there was a lack of consistency across different schools. Some asked parents to buy more expensive tech, while others opted for more affordable options.

“What we found is that some schools will look for a top-of-the-range laptop, and that might be upwards of €800,” she said. “Other schools will look for the lowest entry point of tablets, so you could be talking about €400.”

Some parents who had no choice but to purchase their child’s device package at the last minute were also left paying more than they

would have previously, as the price of the device rose, according to RTE’s Liveline.

There is also an information gap in some schools, Dr Marcus-Quinn said, leaving some parents unaware of high device costs until their child has already accepted a school place.

“How the information is given to parents varies so widely. For some it will be up front on their website in a parent section saying what you’ll have to buy,” she said.

“For others, there’s nothing on the website, parents go along to the school information evening, apply to that school, get a letter of offer, and it’s only at that point they might be told about the device.

“There’s nothing consistent in how the information is shared, and that’s terrible for budget planning. It’s not an insignificant amount of money and should know when you’re applying whether that’s a requirement.”

A letter was sent to schools

by Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton, asking them to ease the financial burden placed on parents by the purchase of laptops or tablets.

In it, Ms Naughton said there is no requirement for students to have their own devices for school, adding that parents were being asked to spend large sums of money on devices, placing a “significant financial burden on families”.

Dr Marcus-Quinn said the blame does not fall on school leaders, who have been “put in a really horrible position”.

While school books for the new senior cycle are now free, the introduction of the tablets has put further expense back on parents.

Paul’s Art of gold ...

A children’s charity is using art to brighten the days of children with longterm health conditions in Kilkenny.

Helium’s Creative Health Programme is taking place in St Luke’s General Hospital.

The programme, called Create While You Wait, supports children and young people living with long-term physical health conditions. Local artist Paul Bokslag has been bringing his “box full of fun”, packed with art materials and creative activities, into the Paediatric OPD. Designed and delivered

by Paul Bokslag, the programme aims to brighten hospital visits by providing distraction, creativity and fun for children who may be feeling nervous while waiting for their appointments.

Create While You Wait is part of Helium’s wider Creative Health Programme for children and young people aged six–16 across Kilkenny. Children who enjoy taking part in the hospital arts activities can continue their creative journey through Helium’s free workshops and camps in community settings and online.

This summer, Paul Bokslag will lead a threeday camp for children aged eight–12 at St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall, while local artist Carrie Lynam will facilitate a three-day camp for young people aged 13–16 at Butler Gallery.

Speaking about the impact of the programme, Sinead Beehan, Staff Nurse in the Paediatric Outpatient Department, said: “Helium helps to reduce children’s anxiety as they arrive in the Outpatient Department to be reviewed by the doctors.

Through art and play, it

turns a very clinical environment into a fun, creative space.”

Paul has 20 years’ experience working in inclusive arts programmes and was a co-founder of the KCAT Art and Study Centre in Callan, County Kilkenny.

Further information about the work of Helium is available at www. helium.ie.

The art that matters: above, Helium artist Paul Bokslag with sisters Saidbhín and Síobhra from Thomastown proudly displaying their artwork.

PHOTO: Vicky Comerford

Record 5,297 complaints made to Ombudsman A total of 5,297 complaints about public services were made to the Ombudsman, Ger Deering, in 2025 – an increase of 11% on the previous year and the highest number in more than 30 years.

Speaking on the publication of his Annual Report for 2025, the Ombudsman said that last year continued the trend of a significant

and steady increase in the number of complaints being made to his office.

The Ombudsman investigates complaints about public bodies including local authorities, government departments and the HSE. His office investigated 4,996 complaints in 2025 – an increase of 6% on the 2024 figure. The office also re-

sponded to more than 9,000 enquiries.

The Ombudsman saw a continued increase in complaints about local authorities – up 20% on the 2024 figure, to 1,793 complaints last year. A total of 248 complaints were made to the Ombudsman about Dublin City Council, while 200 involved Cork City Council in

2025.

A total of 1,502 complaints were received about Government Departments and Offices, with the Department of Social Protection being the subject of 686 complaints.

There were 861 complaints about public bodies in the health sector, with 720 involving the HSE and 110 about Tusla.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

The Killing Fields: world more at war than ever There can be no one who has not been moved to tears and outrage and a sense of helplessness by the daily images coming out of Ukraine, Gaza and Lebanon, of the thousands of innocent souls caught in the nightmare that is war. There too, in the almost forgotten killing fields of South Sudan and Yemen.

The Global Peace Index (GPI) for 2026 finds that the world has continued its longstanding trajectory of deteriorating peacefulness, with armed conflict the dominant driver of the decline. There are now more active statebased conflicts than at any point since the end of the Second World War, while the number of countries involved in external conflict has nearly doubled since 2008.

World military expenditure has risen for the 10th consecutive year. While total deaths from conflict have declined from their 2023 peak, the past year still recorded

the second-highest number of conflict deaths since the inception of the Index two decades ago.

The civil war in Sudan, the protracted conflict in Ukraine and the consequential war between Israel, the US and Iran have left the international environment in a more fragile and militarised state than at any point in the life of the Index.

Though 81 countries improved their level of peace according to the GPI, those gains were “dirtied by deteriorating peace” in 79 other nations. While Central and South America continue to earn the worst marks for societal safety and security, the US represents one of the only exceptions due to its “excessive incarceration rate”.

Overall, Western and Central Europe holds its own as the most generally peaceful region, while the Middle East and North Africa region (MENA) remains consistently

the most tumultuous spot on the planet.

Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world for the 19th consecutive year, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia and Ireland. Russia is the least peaceful country, with

Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ukraine and Israel completing the bottom five.

Of particular note in this year’s 20th anniversary GPI — the most comprehensive to date — repercussions such as the growing refugee crisis, is driving a growing disparity between the least and the most peaceful nations.

In fact, the number of refugees and displaced persons has increased dramatically over the decade, to some 60 million people. There are nine countries with more than 10% of their population classified as refugees or displaced persons, with Somalia and South Sudan having more than 20% of their population displaced and Syria with over 60% displaced.

As the world descends into a far less peaceful state overall, the staggering cost of militarism and violence becomes painfully clear. According to the report, the US

spends an outrageously high percentage of the world’s military expenditures — 38% — while the next largest military spender, China, accounts for considerably less, 10% of the global share. In the score of militarisation, the least peaceful countries include Israel, Russia, North Korea, Syria and the US. The staggering cost is 13.3% of the globe’s total economic activity, while $13.6 trillion in purchasing power parity concerns violent conflict. That’s the equivalent of “$1,876 for every person in the world”.

Here’s another disturbing fact. Pick any year since 1776, when the American War of Independence took place, and there is about a 91% chance that America was involved in some war during that calendar year. No US president truly qualifies as a peacetime president. The US has never gone a decade without war, bar five years (1935-40) during the isola-

tionist Great Depression.

For me, the most harrowing and disturbing aspect of a world at war is from another report that just landed in my in-tray. Around 90% of all deaths in today’s wars are civilians. Again the US has culpability here, if not downright blood on its hands, having launched 201 out of the 248 armed conflicts since the end of WWII — in 153 locations around the world.

A top defence of war is that it must be used to prevent something worse — genocide. Hmmm… To my mind, not only does militarism generate genocide rather than prevent it, but the distinction between war and genocide is a very fine line at best. Think back to Bosnia, Rwanda ...

What did we say after the Holocaust? Something about how we must never allow it to happen again? Try telling that to the sacrificial souls caught up in the world at war…

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Why Government needs to rethink vaping policies Responsible Vaping Ireland (RVI), the representative body for more than 3,300 independent vape retailers and business owners, has called on the Government to rethink its approach to vaping policy as smoking rates show signs of stagnating, arguing that regulated vaping products have an important role to play in helping adult smokers move

away from cigarettes.

The call comes as the latest Health in Ireland data from the Department of Health shows smoking prevalence increased marginally between 2023 and 2024, raising concerns that progress in reducing smoking rates may be stalling.

Launching its Budget 2027 submission, RVI is urging the Government to adopt

evidence-based policies that support adult smokers seeking alternatives to cigarettes, while strengthening enforcement against illicit products and protecting responsible retailers.

RVI's Budget 2027 submission contains five key recommendations: • Freeze E-Liquid Products Tax (EPT) rates and introduce a tax stamp system for vaping

products; • Freeze recently introduced vaping retail licence fees; • Increase funding for underage test-purchasing programmes; • Increase product compliance inspections of vaping retailers; and • Fund annual monitoring of the illicit vape market.

Lorraine Carolan, National

Spokesperson for Responsible Vaping Ireland, said: "The latest smoking figures should be a wake up call. After years of progress, smoking rates are no longer falling and have started to move in the wrong direction.

"We need to examine whether current policies are doing enough to support smokers who want to quit.

Vaping is widely recognised as a lower-risk alternative to smoking and has helped many smokers move away from cigarettes.”

Ms Carolan said the Government should ensure regulated vaping products do not become less attractive to adult smokers at a time when smoking rates have stopped declining.

Major break in knowing whether IVF may succeed Certain bacteria inside a woman's womb may affect whether or not IVF and other fertility treatments lead to her getting pregnant, according to new findings by Irish scientists at Trinity College.

The researchers have also uncovered new evidence that biological signs that doctors have traditionally used to decide the best time to transfer an embryo during IVF might not always be reliable.

Bacteria in the womb could be influencing those signals or affecting the chances of the embryo implanting successfully.

The study examined women with unexplained infertility who underwent fertility treatment and found that those who did not become pregnant had a different endometrial microbiome – the collection of microbes associated with the lining of the uterus – compared to those who got pregnant. Women who were unsuccessful had a more diverse microbiome, with fewer beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria and higher levels of other bacterial species.

Women who did not become pregnant showed higher levels of gene expression for several genes that are commonly used as markers of endometrial receptivity, the state in which the womb is considered ready to receive an embryo.

These markers are widely studied in fertility medicine and are sometimes used to help identify the best timing for embryo transfer and this now questions how effective this forecasting method is likely to be.

"The surprising finding was that higher expression of receptivity markers did not translate into better pregnancy outcomes,” said Dr Federica Giangrazi, of Trinity's School of Biochemistry and Immunology, who is first author of the study recently published in the journal Human Reproduc-

tion.

"Our results suggest that when it comes to these markers, more is not necessarily better.”

The team investigated butyrate, a molecule produced by certain bacteria found in the endometrium.

By using laboratory models that mimic the conditions of embryo implantation, they showed for the first time that butyrate can directly increase the expression of receptivity markers.

However, butyrate also promoted inflammation and weakened the barrier function of endometrial cells. These changes could thus interfere with successful implantation.

A spokesman said the findings build on previous work by the same research group in Trinity's School of Biochemistry and Immunology and Merrion Fertility Clinic at the National Maternity Hospital, showing that inflammation plays a critical role in fertility.

"Together, the studies suggest that pregnancy success depends on a delicate balance between the immune environment of the uterus and the composition of its microbiome, and that timing the point of embryo transfer to maximise the chance of successful implantation is not as easy as might have been assumed,” senior author Prof. Cliona O'Farrelly from Trinity said.

"While the research was conducted in a relatively small patient cohort and further studies are needed, the results highlight the potential importance of considering both the endometrial microbiome and inflammation when evaluating fertility.

"In the future, a better understanding of these interactions could help clinicians identify which patients are most likely to benefit from specific assisted reproductive technology strategies and improve the timing of embryo transfer.”

Well, picture this ...

Six winning photographers have been announced in the inaugural 'Our Ireland, Our EU' Photo Competition, a national initiative celebrating the positive impact of Government of Ireland and EU co-funded projects and initiatives across Ireland.

Organised by the Depart-

ment of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation and hosted on EUFunds.ie, the competition invited members of the public to capture photographs highlighting how European Union funding is making a difference in communities throughout the

country.

The competition received 164 entries from across Ireland. Following eligibility checks, 82 photographs were published for public voting.

More than 2,600 voters cast votes.

The competition featured two categories:

• Category 1 – EU-Funded Projects: Places & Spaces • Category 2 – EU-Funded Activities: People & Participation Pictured above is entitled Summer At The Pier, taken by Claudia Finnerty, at Aughris, Co. Sligo. It took first prize in Category 2.

JD Sports to return €250k of gift vouchers Multinational sportswear retailer JD Sports is to return thousands of euro in unspent gift card credit to consumers in this country following an intervention from the State's consumer watchdog.

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) said it had

secured an undertaking from JD Sports to return almost €250,000 in unspent gift cards.

This decision follows engagement by the CCPC with JD Sports about reports that gift cards had been sold to Irish consumers with incorrect expiry dates.

Under gift voucher legisla-

tion introduced in Ireland in December 2019, gift vouchers must be valid for at least five years.

However, since the legislation was introduced, gift cards bought online from JD Sports were issued with just a one-year expiry date.

Contacted by the CCPC, John David Sports Fashion

(Ireland) Limited, which trades as JD Sports, admitted the error and offered to immediately take steps to remedy the losses to Irish consumers.

JD Sports will now reissue 5,604 gift cards where an outstanding balance of €10 or more was cancelled on expiry of the card.

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Regional Ceremony for National Commemoration Day 2026 An Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Joe Malone, will be hosting a Regional Ceremony for the National Commemoration Day next Sunday, 12th July. The event will take place at 11:00 a.m. in the beautiful grounds of Kilkenny Castle, where we will gather to pay tribute to the brave Irishmen and Irishwomen who lost their lives in past wars or while serving with the United Nations.

National Commemoration Day holds immense significance as it allows us to remember and honour the sacrifices made by our fellow countrymen and women throughout history. This regional ceremony is one of several taking place across the country.

Distinguished guests including military personnel, regional Public Representatives, Members of the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána, and Religious Leaders have been invited to attend and participate in this solemn occasion. We are also extending an invitation to members of the public who wish to join us in paying their respects. We kindly request attendees to arrive at the venue before 10:45 a.m., as formal proceedings will com-

mence at 11:00 a.m.

The ceremony will begin with a formal introduction by the Master of Ceremonies, who will introduce the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council and other dignitaries. Officiating clergy and laity will then lead us in prayers, followed by the Cathaoirleach laying a wreath in tribute to the fallen Irish-

men and Irishwomen who valiantly served their country in times of war or peacekeeping missions under the United Nations.

We encourage all attendees to observe this commemorative event with due respect and solemnity, as we remember and honour the sacrifices of those who have gone before us.

John McGuinness welcomes sanction for second special class at Duiske College Carlow-Kilkenny TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle, John McGuinness has warmly welcomed confirmation that Duiske College has received the longawaited sanction letter for its second special class.

Deputy McGuinness said the approval is an important step in ensuring that more students with additional educational needs can access the support they deserve.

He also congratulated Georgina Murphy on her official appointment as Principal of the college.

"I want to congratulate Georgina on her well-deserved appointment and acknowledge her unwavering commitment to the students, staff and wider school community. I look forward to continuing to work with her as we advocate for the future development of Duiske College," Deputy McGuinness said.

While welcoming the sanction for the second special class, Deputy McGuinness noted that the school has yet to receive approval for an additional modular classroom. As a result, the college will convert its music room into the new special class, requiring alternative arrangements for music tuition and Transition Year activities.

"Duiske College has shown tremendous determination in ensuring this special class can proceed despite the accommodation challenges. I will continue to support the school's campaign for additional accommodation and the wider development of the campus for the 2027/2028 school year and beyond."

Deputy McGuinness thanked Principal Murphy and the entire school community for their dedication and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the continued growth and development of Duiske College.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Room for improvement in the smallest room It’s a familiar story. It’s holiday time, you are out and about in an unfamiliar place, when nature calls.

When you have to go, you have to go ... but where? This is the point where calling toilets public conveniences can be an oxymoron. They may be far from convenient and may not even exist.

Needs must, so you then have to go to a bar, a café or a shop and ask to use the facilities. It can be embarrassing, their toilets are meant for customers. You may end up buying a drink or a coffee even if you didn’t want one.

Some places have combination locks on their loos, in others you may have to ask for a key. You can’t blame businesses for being a bit iffy over a situation which is caused by local authorities failing to provide what the public need.

As for publicly accessible facilities, some petrol stations do have toilets and

some don’t, and unless you are making a pit stop at a major petrol retailer like Applegreen, it’s hard to know if you will find relief.

Some department stores have toilets that aren’t that easy to access, particularly for the disabled, when they are situated on top floors.

Supermarkets, where you might think they would look after customers who spend plenty of money on their premises, have surprisingly bad attitudes about toilets. Lidl seems to me to be about the best, with conveniently – ha, ha – situated and easily accessible loos.

Generally speaking, lavatories, whether public conveniences or those in businesses for public use, are not cause for admiration.

The best you can hope for is that they are functional, clean and haven’t run out of loo paper. Calling them rest rooms is a bit of a misnomer, as they aren’t places

where you want to linger.

Now there is a timely focus on publicly usable small rooms thanks to Dyno-Rod, the drainage experts. The 50-year-old company is inviting entries for a SuperLoo contest. It’s a repeat of the popular competition they ran back in 1992 and the facilities will be assessed on a dozen criteria from cleanliness to the ply of the loo paper. Last time round, the Slieve Russell Hotel was judged to have the most praiseworthy of powder rooms. It’s a chance for businesses to show how they take pride in every aspect of their customers’ experience, according to Dyno-Rod. “We have spent decades travelling around Ireland.

We’ve seen an array of public facilities in our time,” says Paul Crowley Operations Director Dyno-Rod. “We now find that what used to be in the smallest

room is often a place where businesses focus significant attention for their customers. The rise of social media has added to this, of course.

We have had quite the

“these privies for the privileged were once used to store clothing ...

response to SuperLoo, it shows people really do take notice when they use the public restrooms.”

My most recent favourite loo experience was at Irene Kelly’s Green Road Gardens at Battlestown, Co. Wexford.

Situated in a wooden lodge in the garden, the loo, complete with an antique pull chain and overhead cistern, is in a room furnished with charming touches including a gorgeous flower arrangement. It gets its picture taken as often as the features in this enchanting garden, open to groups by appointment and for gardening and basket weaving courses.

Back to public conveniences in general: a good way to find how the facilities measure up is to ask someone in the tourism business. Pat Tynan launched Kilkenny Walking Tours back in 1983, offering tours of the medieval city to

visitors, weaving together history with stories like those of Dame Alice Kyteler and the Tolsel Kilkenny Cats. Pat lists off the city’s three public conveniences, at the Parade, at the Market Cross and McDonagh shopping centres and mentions the helpfulness of some pubs. “We are not too badly off, loo-wise in Kilkenny,” says Pat. Formal loos have a long history, using them was a social event for Romans, a place to meet up with multiseat conveniences. Kilkenny has some good examples of medieval loos, one in a tower at Kilkenny Castle with a seat over the moat and one in Maudlin Castle with an exterior chute.

Known as garderobes, these privies for the privileged were once used to store clothing where draughts and ammonia repelled fleas and lice. Times have changed!

Plastic free household products

Sustainability is a word you hear a lot about, but what does it CLAIR actually mean?

WHITTY Simply put, sustainable living is about making choices that meet our needs today without harming the environment for future generations. We can make small changes one step at a time, we can learn as we go.

One easy way to live more sustainably is to reduce the amount of single-use plastic we bring into our homes. Every year, millions of plastic bottles and containers end up in landfill, where we know they can take hundreds of years to break down.

To help you to reduce plastic wastage we have a refill station in both of our stores. We have a wide range of household and body care products. All you have to do is bring your own containers and refill we can refill them. the bottle each time, customers can simply use bottle holds. It's a simple step that can make a refillable bottles and add the concentrated real difference over time. solution. Their Laundry Sheets are getting the Other plastic free products include Friendly thumbs up from our customers, who move Shampoo Bars. They are long-lasting, easy to from sceptical buyers to regular users. The use and help reduce the number of shampoo sheets dissolve completely in the wash. They bottles that end up in recycling bins or landcome in a small box, so less cardboard to fill. The Skoon range offers effective natural recycle, less messy and kinder to the environcleaning products designed with sustainabilment too, they are worth trying if you haven’t ity in mind, while Soaply uses recycled plastic seen them yet. to make their bottles. Yokuu, which takes a If we can all make small changes every day, unique approach by using beneficial probiotthen together can have a significant impact. ics in its cleaning products. These friendly Whether that’s refilling a household cleaner, bacteria continue working long after cleaning, switching to a shampoo bar or choosing helping to maintain a healthy home environproducts with environmentally responsible ment without relying on harsh chemicals. ingredients, it will all help.

For household cleaning, Ocean Saver has By making these simple swaps we can all developed a clever range of concentrated play a part in creating a cleaner, greener cleaning products that dramatically reduce future. plastic waste. Instead of buying a new plastic Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 | Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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News

Four Kilkenny communities nominated for IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026

Kilkenny County Council nominated four outstanding community groups to represent County Kilkenny at the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026, which celebrate and recognise the exceptional efforts of communities across Ireland in creating vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable places to live, work and visit.

Organised in partnership with Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place Awards, an all island competition, acknowledges the invaluable contribution made by local communities in enhancing people's quality of life, fostering social inclusion, promoting community wellbeing, and strengthening civic pride.

The four communities nominated by Kilkenny County Council for this year's awards are Muckalee under the Inclusive Communities Category, Graiguenamanagh under the Population Category (1,000–2,000), Slieverue under the Community Wellbeing Category and Kilkenny Older Peoples Council under the Age Friendly Category.

The judging for this year's competition took place on the 3rd and 4th of July 2026, with each nominee welcoming the judging panel and showcasing the projects, initiatives and community spirit that make their area and organisations exceptional examples of community development and

L-R: Cllr. Ger Frisby, Mary Walsh, Brendan McGrath (Judge), Tim Caffrey (Judge), Catherine Grant, Marley Irish

collaboration.

Muckalee was nominated in recognition of its continued commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members

of the community. The judging panel commenced at the Muckalee community café and were presented with a showcase of community initiatives, sporting facilities

and programmes designed to encourage participation, accessibility and social inclusion across all age groups in the community of Muckalee.

Graiguenamanagh was nominated for its outstanding community development, heritage promotion, environmental initiatives and strong volunteer spirit.

The judges were given an opportunity to experience first-hand the vibrant community life in the town and to learn about the many projects that have enhanced the area and contributed to the quality of life for residents, visitors and tourists alike.

Slieverue's nomination reflects the community's dedication to promoting health, wellbeing and social connection. During the judging visit, the panel heard about the wide range of initiatives undertaken by local groups and volunteers to support physical activity, mental wellbeing, community engagement and intergenerational participation. The Judges were suitably entertained with local musicians and dancers including the Simply Singing Group.

The Kilkenny Older Peoples Council were nominated in recognition of its significant contribution to supporting older people throughout the city and county, for their many age friendly initiatives and projects representing the voice of the older person in Kilkenny. The judging panel learned about the Older Peoples Council work in promoting active ageing, social inclusion, accessibility

and age-friendly initiatives that enhance the quality of life for older citizens across Kilkenny.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Joe Malone commented, "The Pride of Place competition is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the community spirit, pride, and dedication that exists throughout our county. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who played a part in preparing Slieverue, Graiguenamanagh, Muckalee, and Kilkenny City. Your hard work, commitment, and sense of community are what make these places so special."

The winners of the IPB Pride of Place Awards 2026 will be announced at a gala awards ceremony later this year, where communities from every county in Ireland will gather to celebrate their achievements and commitment to making their local areas better places to live.

Kilkenny County Council would like to congratulate Muckalee, Graiguenamanagh, Slieverue and the Kilkenny Older Peoples Council on their contribution to the Pride of Place competition and thank the many volunteers, community groups and local organisations who took part.

We wish all four nominees every success in the competition and look forward to them representing County Kilkenny at the national awards ceremony.

L–R: Frank Stafford, Brenda Foskin, Jimmy Duggan, Carmel Butler, Annette Fitzpatrick, Lianne Kelly, Ciaran Donnelly, Tim Caffrey (Judge), Joe Fox, Bronnagh Barron, Brendan McGrath (Judge), Matthew Ward, Jimmy Phelan, Anne Marie Shortall, Miriam Cushen, and Catherine Byrne Murphy

L–R: Tim Caffrey (Judge), Michael Delahunty (Older Peoples Council), Cathaoirleach Joe Malone, Mayor Andrew McGuinness, Anne Marie Shortall (Kilkenny County Council), and Brendan McGrath (Judge)

Back row, L–R: Lianne Kelly, Patsy Murphy, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, Tom Lawlor, Nicky Purcell, Tim Butler, Maura Tynan, Margaret Birnie, Roisin Hanlon, Rebecca Roche, Geraldine Hanlon, Anita Patterson, Anne Marie Shortall, Teresa Mahon.

Front row, L–R: Libby Fleming and Laura McDowell.

Back row, L–R: Rita Kinneally, Charlotte Daniels, Janette Boran, Carmel Purcell, Jack Kavanagh, Lianne Kelly, Deirdre Farrell, Kathleen Meagher, Colette Power, and Anne Marie Shortall.

Front row, L–R: Cathaoirleach Joe Malone, Nickey Brennan , Tim Caffrey (Judge), Brendan McGrath (Judge), Michael Delahunty, Mary O'Hanlon and Mayor Andrew McGuinness

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

News A significant expansion in medical services is being marked at University Hospital Waterford.

Since March of this year, University Hospital Waterford (UHW) has provided a seven-day, 8am-8pm on-call primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and emergency cardiac care service.

From this week, this has extended to a 24-hour basis of operation, through all 365 days of the year.

This specialist cardiac service at UHW, utilising both cardiac catheterisation laboratories in the hospital, will support the care needs of those who require it in the surrounding parts of the HSE Dublin and South East.

The expansion at UHW is the culmination of a project which featured the construction of a two-storey extension at the hospital and a successful recruitment programme, concluded recently, in respect of an additional 10 Whole Time Equivalent specialist posts.

The two-storey extension includes a Specialist Procedures Room (second Cath Lab), a Preparation and Recovery Room, diagnostic facilities and ancillary accommodation.

Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty, is a minimally invasive procedure used to open blocked or narrowed heart arteries.

It restores blood flow to the heart muscle, relieving chest pain (angina) and preventing heart muscle damage during or after a heart attack.

Marking the significant milestone for UHW and the South East, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said: “The expansion of cardiac services at University Hospital Waterford marks a significant milestone for the people and the communities it serves, enhancing access to care for patients requiring cardiac intervention in the South East of the country.

“Last year, this Government made the decision to support 24/7, we knew the recruitment of specialised staff would take some time, but our commitment was clear.

“I am very grateful to the excellent staff and management at UHW for their continued commitment and dedication to providing specialised cardiac care,” she said.

Marking the expansion at UHW, Consultant Cardiologist Mr Patrick O’Callaghan said: “Our dedicated staff in UHW have an excellent reputation in caring for all those that depend on us. As an acute hospital providing specialist services in Co. Waterford and areas across four surrounding counties in the South East, it has been our aim to have as full a suite of cardiac facilities as is practicable.

“For some time, clinicians and management in UHW, along with colleagues in the HSE, have been working towards delivering this expansion. Support from the Department of Health, including by way of funding being in

Good for the heart

Expansion to 24/7 cardiac service at University Hospital Waterford

place to achieve recruitment of necessary staffing, has also been important and we look forward to providing the increased service.”

Martina Queally, Regional Executive Officer of HSE Dublin and South East added: “Along with my colleague Waterford/Wexford Integrated Healthcare Area Manger Dr Sinéad Reynolds, each time we have visited UHW and spoken to members of the Cardiology Care team there, I have been impressed at the incremental planning for the point that we have now reached.”

“As their efforts to look after patients and outpatients in their care have been appreciated to date, I am sure that this expansion in the cardiac speciality team and extent of their service provision will be of comfort to so many users and their families.”

Thanking the many people who have supported the case for and worked to ensure delivery of the expansion in PCI and emergency cardiac care services at the hospital, Chief Executive of UHW, Ben O’Sullivan said: “Meeting the July 6 target for the expansion of primary PCI to a 24/7 service is a significant milestone for University Hospital Waterford and the South East.

It is the culmination of significant investment in state-ofthe-art facilities, as well as the recruitment of specialist staff across multiple disciplines.”

“This date is also a momentous one for all those who have campaigned for the expansion of service across Waterford and the South East.

“I would like to thank all the staff involved in providing the service, through the opening of the second Cath Lab in September 2023 with

increased scheduled activity, progressing to an 8am-8pm, seven days on-call PCI service in March 2025 and now a full 24/7 PCI service in July 2026,” he said.

“At each point of development over the past three years, UHW’s Cardiology department has ensured continuous safe care for patients, whilst attracting the best in their fields to UHW to deliver the service.

“I would also like to thank our colleagues in Cork and Dublin hospitals, who have supported our patients with an out-of-hour service. UHW endeavours to deliver care without a requirement to transfer patients to other centres, and our 24/7 service will deliver care locally to some 70 patients each year without a requirement to travel,” O’Sullivan said.

July 6, 2026 would be a de-

fining date for cardiology services in the South East.

Prof. Joe Galvin, Clinical Co-Lead of National Heart Office, said: “University Hospital Waterford has joined Ireland’s six other regional Primary PCI centres charged with opening occluded coronary arteries using a ‘keyhole’ approach called Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI).

If patients can be transferred directly from their home or a public place to the hospitals cardiac catheterisation lab within 120 mins of the heart attack being diagnosed, mortality rates with heart attack are almost halved.

“The opening of UHW’s 24/7 service will effectively reduce to 0% the number of patients living >90 mins from a PCI centre and avoid the significantly longer travel times to Cork and Dublin for this region.”

Prof. Colm Henry, Chief Clinical Officer, HSE, said: “The opening of a 24/7 Primary PCI service in University Hospital Waterford is a very welcome development and is expected to help reduce acute mortality and improve long-term outcomes in patients having an acute heart attack in the South East Region of the country.”

AFFAIRS OF THE HEART ...

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a significant health concern in Ireland, with over 9,000 people losing their lives to CVD each year. The disease is a major cause of death in Ireland and worldwide and it is sometimes called ischaemic heart disease.

The most common symptom of CHD is chest pain (angina), which can be triggered by physical activity or stress. If the arteries are completely blocked, a heart attack can occur, which can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Preventive measures include maintaining a low-fat and high-fibre diet, limiting salt intake, avoiding saturated fats and engaging in regular physical activity. Managing blood pressure, cholesterol levels and diabetes is also crucial.

Smoking cessation and moderate alcohol consumption are recommended to reduce the risk of CHD. The Irish Heart and Stroke Charity is actively working to prevent heart disease and stroke, save lives and support families and communities. The charity’s manifesto aims to address the current shortfall in CVD care and lay a pathway for a successful national CVD prevention-based strategy.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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News

Creative book fair returns to Kilkenny Sustainable arts association Atelier Páipéar is returning to The Tea Houses, Kilkenny, on 10 - 12 July 2026 with an exciting new offering - an Artist Book Fair, exploring the theme of ‘Interconnectivity’.

Developed in response to an open call earlier this year, the book fair will showcase a diverse collection of artist’s books created by local and national artists, writers, designers, photographers, illustrators and emerging creatives.

An artist’s book is a specific genre of art, where the artist book itself is the work of art not the content. Artist’s books can be quite sculptural and interactive, and are usually one-off pieces of art.

The featured artworks also aim to examine the theme of “Interconnectivity” - connections between people, communities and nature, at a time of growing disconnection.

Visitors to the fair can expect to find a vibrant range of hand-bound, imaginative and experimental pieces, that challenge the conventional idea of a book!

A key focus of the project is sustainability, with all participating artists requested to create their works using existing or repurposed studio waste

materials.

Atelier Páipéar co-founder Michelle McMahon said: “The Artist Book Fair is an opportunity for artists to think differently about off-cuts, misprints and other studio waste materials. It’s like a challenge to think creatively about waste, and to give these otherwise waste products a life beyond the recycling bin. In doing so, we

hope to inspire others to have a more sustainable approach to acquiring and creating with art materials”.

Lukas Dwan, co-founder of Atelier Páipéar, said this year’s exhibition has definitely challenged artists to create unique bodies of work: "It’s been amazing to see how each of the 15 participating artists has

interpreted the ‘artist book’ genre and the theme of interconnectivity. We have some stunning one-off sculptural pieces by local artist Saturio Alonso. We have an exclusive collection of beautiful, handmade artist books by Gypsy Ray, with detailed drawings and photos taken by the artist / photographer herself. We will also have well-known

international artist’s book makers Red Fox Press exhibiting with us. So, attendees can expect to find a truly eclectic range of artworks”.

The launch is taking place this Friday evening, 10th July, 17:30 – 20:00, and will feature live music from Ciarán Mac Eochaidh.

This is BYO event.

Admission is free and all are

welcome.

Artist books will be offered for sale at the opening event and across the weekend from 10:00 – 17:00, with all proceeds going directly back to the artists.

The organisers wish to express their gratitude to Tea Houses curator Shane Gallagher and Kilkenny Arts Office for supporting the Artist Book Fair.

an Irish summer has to be the humble ice pop. They're cheap, refreshing and guaranteed to last all of 47 seconds before someone asks for another. It's also a scientific fact (or at least it feels like one) that the colder the ice pop, the stickier the child. Before long they'll have enough melted juice on them to attract every wasp in the county.

The question of food, lighter meals are a good idea when the weather heats up. Watermelon, strawberries, grapes and oranges are perfect for keeping everyone refreshed.

Of course, there'll always be one child asking if a Club Milk counts as one of their five a

day.

The middle of the afternoon is often the warmest part of the day, making it the ideal time to head indoors. Build a blanket fort, get the colouring books out, play a few board games or settle in with a family film.

Shopping centres suddenly become surprisingly popular too, not because anyone needs anything, but because the air conditioning is doing God's work. The chill section in Aldi can be heaven, but they won’t let you stay there even if the deck chair you brought with you was bought there.

Sun hats deserve a special mention. Convincing an Irish child to wear one can resemble delicate peace talks. It's too hot, too itchy, or apparently "doesn't go" with their GAA jersey or dinosaur T-shirt. Stay strong. Hats and sunscreen are worth every argument.

As for sunscreen, applying it to children can feel like trying to butter a slice of toast that's entered the National Gymnastics Championships. Just when you've covered one arm, they've disappeared next door to chase the neighbour's cat or kick a football over the fence.

Keep at it, and remember to reapply regularly, especially after swimming, paddling or the inevitable water fight.

Loose, lightweight clothing helps everyone stay comfortable too. But less is best unless going out somewhere.

Warm evenings can make bedtime another adventure.

Keep bedrooms cool by closing the curtains during the hottest

part of the day and opening the windows once the evening air starts to cool. A cool shower before bed can also help little ones drift off more comfortably, assuming they're finished discussing whether tomorrow will be "even hotter."

Don't forget the family pets either. Dogs, cats, rabbits and any other furry family members need plenty of fresh water and somewhere shady to escape the heat.

The best part about an Irish summer is that it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Some of the happiest memories come from the simple things: blowing bubbles in the garden, having a picnic in the local park, reading stories under a tree, hunting for ladybirds or simply kicking a football around until someone shouts that dinner's ready. Children rarely remember how much money was spent, but they'll always remember the fun they had together.

So, whether you're armed with a hosepipe, a paddling pool, a freezer full of ice pops or simply a bucket of cold water and a decent sense of humour, make the most of the sunshine while it's here. After all, this is Ireland. There's every chance you'll be digging the raincoats and wellies back out before next weekend.

Stay cool, keep everyone hydrated, slap on the sunscreen, and if all else fails, stand in front of the open freezer for a few seconds. Just remember there will be an electric bill in the near future.

Keeping children cool in hot weather (Without putting them in the fridge!)

Every Irish summer it happens. The clouds finally part, the sun makes a proper appearance for more than a couple of hours, and suddenly every child in the country behaves as though they've been selected for the Community Games in running, climbing, shouting and asking for ice cream.

Meanwhile, parents are left wondering how such tiny humans can generate so much heat while refusing to wear a hat. So, how do you keep children cool when the Irish weather decides to treat us to a few glorious days? Here are a few tried-and-tested ideas (with only the slightest bit of

exaggeration).

The first rule is simple, water is your best friend. Encourage children to drink plenty throughout the day, even if they insist, they're "not thirsty."

A colourful reusable bottle can work wonders, although they'll probably still ask for Mi Wadi because water is boring.

Then there's every Irish child's favourite sign that summer has finally arrived, the paddling pool. It doesn't matter if it's a fancy inflatable water park or an old washingup basin borrowed from the utility room. Fill it with cold water and suddenly the back garden feels like a holiday in Spain. Just remember that

children possess an extraordinary ability to splash every flowerpot, patio door and unsuspecting grown-up within a ten-metre radius.

Note to Parents: Children using paddling pools must be supervised at all times by a responsible adult.

If you don’t have a paddling pool. No problem. Turn on the hose or set up the sprinkler and watch the garden become the busiest attraction in the parish. Before long you'll have children racing through the water, neighbours peering over the hedge, and at least one adult who would love to be a kid again.

One of the greatest gifts of

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Beware the ‘Long Goodbye’ to full-time work For many people, turning 65 no longer means an abrupt end to working life. Some picture themselves on the golf course or minding grandchildren, while others have no intention of stopping. A growing number are choosing a gradual slowdown, taking on part-time or consultancy work while reducing hours over time and depending more on their pension.

This ‘long goodbye’ to fulltime work is becoming more common. Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures show the number of people over 65 still in employment has more than quadrupled in the past 25 years, rising from 33,200 in 1998 to 137,100 by 2025. Sixtyfive is no longer seen as the automatic finish line.

From June 29, the Employment (Contractual Retirement Ages) Act 2025 gave employees greater protection. If your contract says you must retire at 65, you can now formally tell your employer you want to continue working until you

reach the State pension age of 66. The request must be made between three months and one year before your contractual retirement date.

Your employer cannot simply refuse without valid reasons, but they are not obliged to agree. They can turn down the request if they have genuine business reasons that can be defended.

Even if you secure the right to stay until 66, extending beyond that age still depends on your employer’s agreement. The new law is designed only to bridge the one-year gap between typical occupational pension ages and the State pension. It does not create an automatic right to work into your late 60s or beyond.

If you continue working, timing your State pension is important. You can claim it from 66, even if you keep working. Alternatively, you can defer it until age 70 and receive a higher weekly payment, rising from €299.30

to €363.90 for those with full contributions (see my article, Does Deferring Your State Pension Add Up?, where I ran the calculations for you).

Deferring your pension has an additional cost. Since 2024, people who continue working after 66 must pay PRSI at 4.2%.

Someone earning €60,000 could face an extra €2,520 a

year in contributions they previously avoided. For some, especially those with gaps in their contribution record, deferring makes sense to build up entitlements. For others, the immediate loss of income and ongoing PRSI bill may outweigh the higher eventual pension.

Your occupational or

personal pension rules are equally important. With a PRSA, benefits must be taken before age 75. Buy-out bonds and occupational pensions are usually accessed at the normal retirement age stated in the contract, typically between 60 and 70.

It may be possible to work past this age without drawing down benefits, but this must be negotiated and agreed with your employer. Having multiple pension pots can offer flexibility for tax planning and inheritance, but not all pension structures allow this easily.

Delaying access to your pension can allow further investment growth and potentially a larger tax-free lump sum later. However, once money moves into an Approved Retirement Fund (ARF), imputed distribution rules apply, requiring annual withdrawals of 4–5%. This can create unwanted tax bills even if you do not need the income.

Experts stress that building

a sustainable post-65 working life takes time. Starting to look at non-executive or consultancy roles in your late 50s or early 60s gives you a stronger position than trying to begin from scratch at 65 or 66.

While continuing to work can bring financial security, social connection and a sense of purpose, the combination of legal limits, pension access rules and ongoing costs such as PRSI means careful planning is vital. Those who treat the new freedoms as an automatic right to work indefinitely, or who defer pensions without running the numbers, risk unpleasant financial surprises later.

Working longer can make financial sense, but it is rarely as straightforward as simply delaying retirement. Pension rules, PRSI and employer policies all need to be considered together. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Claire says farewell

By Kilkenny Observer reporter.

Photos jbskilkenny In a time of online transactions and digital overload, the Loughboy Post Office is a rare sanctuary of genuine human connection.

For several decades, the centre of that Post Office has been a remarkable woman named Claire Foley.

Just forty years ago, Claire joined the L and N supermarket which later became Caulfields Super Valu and is now Musgraves Super Valu.

When the post office opened a counter in the shop, Claire was its first counter clerk.

When Claire pays out her final pension and sells her last stamp on Friday the 10th of July, the Loughboy area will say a fond goodbye to a lady who became the heart and soul of the post office.

She is noted for her legendary kindness, courtesy and willingness to help.

Long queues, the Christmas rush, and a stream of stressed out customers never phased Claire. She was extremely efficient with a deep knowledge of obscure postal and customs regulations and she met each customer with a warm and genuine smile.

Fondness The old age and widowed pensioners were particularly fond of Claire as she treated them with a deference and a kind regard for their circumstances. Many of the pensioners looked forward to meeting with Claire on a weekly basis as they knew she understood the difficulties of their lives. It was often said that Claire had her own little fan club and some customers would stand aside in the queue as they waited to be served only by her.

She knew her local community, their families, their troubles and illnesses and even their holiday plans. When a customer left the counter, their business transacted, they felt better and had a smile to prove it. The

Stamp of approval fro family and friends as Claire says farewell

A gathering of family and friends to say farewell to Claire Foley who retired from the Post Office in Loughboy after 40 years service took place last week. Claire is pictured 5th from the left with family who attended.

Included in the photo : Morling, Coran, and Hazel Cotterell, Joan Holland, Claire, Caolan and Tadhg Cotterell, Catherine ( Bobbin) Hanrahan, Jim, Esme, George and Debbie Crowley

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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Claire says farewell

om s

Post Office at Loughboy is the centre of a ‘grand tour or solar system’, which includes St Fiacre’s church, the library branch, the bookmakers, pharmacy, café, newsagent, dry cleaners, florist and shop.

Claire was helpful beyond the post office job description.

Sellotape, which she often purchased herself, for sealing customers parcels and letters. Envelopes, pens and staples were offered when needed. Phone calls were made to various government departments, even to the sorting office. These calls were often made on her own phone and many times when she was

on her he meal breaks. Filling in passport and government forms for customers was a regular occurrence. At times, the Loughboy post office was like an outreach centre of local government, or a branch office of the Citizens advice centre.

Logged out As Claire logged out of her computer and completed her counter balance for her last time, she leaves an emptiness that will be deeply felt by customers and colleagues alike. Her co-workers, Claire Kealy, Philomena Brennan, Maureen O’Sullivan, Mary

Casey and Christina Hogan will soldier on and will no doubt be available to give necessary advice.

Last week, family, customers and many friends called to the post office to bid farewell to a special friend as she prepared for retirement.

As the Kilkenny Observer mingled with customers on that day, the comments of good will were clear to be seen and heard. One customer who has used the post office for the past thirty years said he

would miss Claire for the fun, warmth and joy she shared with everyone. A relative of Claire said that she always enjoyed going to work and she got great satisfaction in helping people. It was very obvious that a special bond between the staff existed, as those gathered enjoyed a cup of tea, and some nice cake.

A co worker of Claire’s said that all the staff wished Claire a healthy retirement with her mother, brothers, daughters and her seven grandchildren.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Sunny, Misty and the Fog on the Tyne!

The weather has been a great source of conversation lately. The weather, of course, is always a great source of conversation. Sitting beside someone in the doctor’s waiting room, you might well turn to them and say: ‘That’s not a bad day.” To which they might well reply: “Nothing wrong with it at all.” And before you know it you could end up chatting about The Triple Lock, Taylor Swift’s wedding (really?) or, more than likely, the World Cup. When it comes to chatting with people, the weather is the ultimate ice-breaker.

However, not alone do we talk about it – we write songs about the weather. A hell of a lot of songs. I could fill several columns with weather-related song titles.

Following are some of the better known ones (at least to me). The dates accompanying them are when they

featured on the BBC – Top of the Pops, primarily, but also on The Old Grey Whistle Test, Later With Jools Holland and various chat shows such as

Wogan.

Sunny Afternoon, The Kinks (1966) * Island in the Sun, Harry Belafonte, originally recorded in1957 (1977, Top of the Pops) * Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me, Elton John (1974) * Misty, Johnny Mathis (1975) * Fog on the Tyne, one of my all-time favourites, Lindisfarne (1971) It made the charts again in 1990 when it was remixed and sung by Paul Gascoigne who was at the height of his fame at the time with Gazzamania * It’s Raining Men, The Weather Girls (1984). * Have You Ever Seen the Rain. John Fogerty wrote the latter hit song for his band Creedence Clear Water Revival in 197l. He wrote it for his brother Tom who was about to quit the band.

In 1972 the band went their separate ways. * Ain’t No Sunshine When She’s Gone, Bill Withers

(1973). Bill was working making aeroplane parts when the song went gold.

As a token of appreciation his record label sent him a gold toilet seat! * I Think It’s Going to Rain Today, Randy Newman (1978) Covered numerous times, Randy once said he found the lyrics (his lyrics) a bit too depressing * Why Does it Always Rain on Me, Travis (1999) * Sunny, Dusty Springfield (1967).

Sunny is one of the most covered songs of all time.

Written by Bobby Hebb as a tribute to his brother who was murdered, the song reflects on the happy times they shared. * California Dreaming, The Mamas and Papas (1968) The Beach Boys (1986). The Mamas and Papas broke up in 1968 * Sunshine after the Rain, Elkie Brooks (1978) The song was written by Ellie Greenwich who wrote some

of the biggest hits of the 60s – Da Do Ron, Ron; Be My Baby; River Deep, Mountain High and Chapel of Love * Rainy Days and Mondays, The Carpenters (1971) Between 1971 and 1975 the Carpenters performed over 800 concerts. Sadly, Karen Carpenter passed away in 1983, aged 32, from a heart attack brought on by anorexia. * Here Comes the Sun, another of my all-time favourites, from the Beatles album, Abbey Road, 1969 (their last recorded album). Covered

by Steve Harley and Cockney Rebel in 1976, one of the hottest summers on record.

The song has been recorded over 200 times.

I’ll finish with a recent, weather-related letter to the Irish Times, penned by an old school mate, and friend, of mine, Michael Gannon (a regular contributor to the letters page) which brought

on a sudden burst of scattered chuckles!

‘Sir, I write to express my profound gratitude for the recent cascade of heat warnings, without which I might have stepped outside, noticed I was about to roast and not have the cop-on to step back inside. I trust that the relevant authorities will continue to monitor all the seasons on my behalf. It is comforting, in uncertain times, that somewhere the obvious is being observed, gift-wrapped and delivered by radio, television and all other befitting means of communication with the breathless urgency of an approaching invasion of our sovereign State. Without wishing to overlook any looming midsummer warnings, I especially await an advisory, as Christmas approaches, on when I should wear my topcoat.

Yours, etc, Michael Gannon.

Kilkenny.

Climate Change – are we all playing our part?

WEEK 176

"If you give things the wrong food they tend to die"

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News

Bishop Nash meets with family of Jo Jo Dullard to offer pastoral support The Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Ossory, Bishop Ger Nash, met with members of the family of Jo Jo Dullard at the Diocesan Office this week to offer his personal support, prayers, and solidarity.

The meeting provided a dedicated space for reflection and pastoral support for Jo Jo’s sister, Kathleen, and her husband, Seamus.

Joining the Bishop was Fr. Willie Purcell, a personal friend of the Dullard family, who has long been involved in the community’s efforts to support them, including organizing the annual remembrance service for Jo Jo and all missing persons alongside the Kilkenny Gospel Choir.

During the visit, Bishop Nash acknowledged the profound difficulty the family has faced, specifically recognizing the enduring pain and the heavy burden of uncertainty that they have carried for decades. In a gesture of comfort, the Bishop assured the family that the Diocese of Ossory continues to hold them firmly in its prayers.

Bishop Nash meets with the family of Jo Jo Dullard.. From left: Fr Willie Purcell, Kathleen and Seamus Bergin, and Bishop Nash

"The meeting served as a poignant reminder of the necessity of standing alongside families who continue their long, arduous search for answers and healing," Fr. Willie commented.

Through this meeting, the Diocese reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to accompanying the Dullard family with compassion and pastoral care. Bishop Nash expressed his heartfelt hope that the family would continue to draw strength from the unwavering support of their community and the solace found in their faith.

The disappearance of Jo Jo Dullard remains one of Ireland’s most prominent and enduring missing person cases. As the search for truth continues, she remains deeply missed and remembered by her family, friends, and the wider community.

Concluding the meeting, Bishop Nash said he would continue keeping Jo Jo and her family in his thoughts and prayers during what remains a profoundly difficult time.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Feel better through nature and connection Brian Redmond was on KCLR Radio recently interviewing a guest about possible laws to decriminalise some recreational drugs in Ireland. The guest had much personal and professional insight into the issue and spoke about the easy availability of drugs across the country. He argued that society needs to better understand why people use drugs and address the factors that can contribute to addiction, e.g. trauma, poor mental health, housing insecurity, unemployment etc. For users, drugs only offer temporary relief. Of course, not all recreational drug users are struggling emotionally, but all users experience some form of reward from the effects.

Marijuana may help people relax, while cocaine is often seen as a party drug that makes users feel powerful, energised and euphoric. All recreational drugs can have

many risky unexpected side effects, e.g. psychosis, so what has always interested me are the “natural highs” we can easily experience without taking mind-altering substances.

Current statistics show young people smoke less and alcohol consumption has decreased. However, drug usage and vaping has increased, and both will create future health concerns. The mix of chemicals in alcohol, smoking, vaping and drugs are addictive, are undoubtedly detrimental to the human body and affect each individual in unknown ways.

Many young people have healthy habits and are interested in diet, fitness, yoga, meditation etc, which are all things I have been interested in since the 70s.

These have positive benefits which hopefully will make these folks less likely to use intoxicants.

What are “natural highs”?

They are what make you feel good without any moodaltering substances.

Remember, we aren’t only physical but emotional, sexual, social, spiritual and energetic beings and each aspect needs to be considered when we think about health versus ill health and thriving versus simply surviving.

We often need courage to take a long hard look at our life and to take responsibility for making changes that will uplift us. Intuitively, we know the things that we need to change: be it a relationship, a job, a location etc, and to ask ourselves: “What’s stopping me?”. Habits can become comfortable and we resist change, which can lead to ill health.

We know intuitively when our energy levels are low and when they are not. We know what depletes us, what boosts us.

Let’s consider a few

negatives that drain our wellbeing and energy, compared to the positives that nourish us and help us feel more energised: • Toxic relationships vs. positive loving relationships.

• Unhealthy food, alcohol, drugs and cigarettes vs. healthy food and drink, and natural highs.

• Isolation vs. social connections.

• Emotional repression vs. emotional expression.

• Tiredness and inactivity vs. Sleep and activity.

• Overwork, stress and anxiety vs. rest and relaxation.

• No creative outlets vs. self-expression.

• Powerlessness vs. personal integrity.

• Insecurity vs. security.

• Living in a spiritual vacuum vs. connection to source or spirit.

Researchers have identified things that boost the immune system and which

are completely natural, e.g. being in Nature, experiencing silence, walking barefoot on grass, listening to music, laughter, being in good company, sleeping and eating well, reading, doing some form of creative work and, believe it or not, simply looking at and enjoying art in all its forms.

Visiting an art gallery is as beneficial as producing art.

Of course, sport and exercise are important but the body needs to be respected and listened to, rather than whipped into shape with overdoing and forcing!

Some people find religion, with its rules, off-putting and restrictive, while genuine spirituality may help people find uplift and personal ways to connect with a deeper, intelligent energy.

Most of us have experienced transcendent moments of heightened awareness when we sense that there’s much more magic to life than what is immediately visible,

e.g. whilst looking into a newborn baby’s eyes, or taking in a beautiful view.

Feelings of “gratitude” and contentment are positive experiences. The more grateful we are for the good things in our lives, the less frustration we experience and people who have spent their lives chasing material gains seem to have deathbed regrets, wishing instead they had spent quality time with loved ones.

Giving or receiving random acts of kindness can also lift our spirits. By helping others, we also help ourselves.

Could you make a daily habit of practising five acts of kindness?

What are your “natural highs”? Once you identify them, make more space for them because the more positive energy you create naturally will help your life feel more energetic, balanced and harmonious. www.judithashton.com

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Glamour, style & top-class racing await at Gowran Park Ladies Day Saturday, July 25th promises to be one of the highlights of the summer social calendar as Gowran Park prepares to welcome thousands of racegoers for its spectacular Ladies Day. Photography by Vicky Comerford Always one of the most anticipated events of the year, Ladies Day combines high fashion, fantastic entertainment and thrilling racing in a unique atmosphere that has become synonymous with Gowran Park.

Returning as Guest Judge is renowned fashion stylist and television personality Marietta Doran, who will once again be searching for the Best Dressed Lady on the day. With her eye for style and individuality, Marietta will have the difficult task of selecting this year's winner from what is expected to be another exceptional display of fashion.

This year's fashion competitions are generously sponsored by Lyrath Estate and MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, with an outstanding selection of luxury prizes awaiting the lucky winners.

The style spotlight won't just be on the ladies. Detail Menswear will be onsite throughout the afternoon searching for the most stylish gentleman, with fantastic vouchers up for grabs for both their Kilkenny

and Carlow stores.

Away from the catwalk, racegoers can enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music on the lawns throughout the afternoon, while the ever-popular rooftop bars provide the perfect setting to soak up the occasion. Following racing, the celebrations continue with a live DJ in the Style Marquee.

Hospitality demand has once again been exceptional, with both the Platinum and BBQ Hospitality Packages now completely sold out. A limited number of Silver Hospitality Packages remain available and are expected to sell quickly.

While fashion and entertainment are major attractions, the racing promises to be equally compelling. The feature contest is The John Fleming Irish EBF Listed Marble City Stakes, a prestigious Listed race attracting some of

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Ireland's leading horses, trainers and jockeys for an afternoon of topclass racing.

To make travelling easier, complimentary courtesy buses will operate from the Gaol Road, departing from one hour before the first race.

Tickets are available now and racegoers are encouraged to book early by visiting www.gowranpark. ie.

Eddie Scally, General Manager of Gowran Park, said: "Ladies Day has become one of the biggest and most enjoyable events on our annual calendar. It's a fantastic occasion where fashion, entertainment, hospitality and quality racing come together in a wonderful atmosphere. We are delighted to welcome Marietta Doran back as our Guest Judge and are extremely grateful to Lyrath Estate, MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre and Detail Menswear for their support. With our Platinum and BBQ packages already sold out, we would encourage anyone planning to attend to secure their tickets early.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to what promises to be another memorable Ladies Day at Gowran Park."

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Ladies Day glamour at Gowran Park

Ladies Day at Gowran Park is about much more than horse racing. It is a chance to get together with friends, enjoy a great day out and dress up for one of the biggest social events of the summer.

Whether you like classic style or something a little more colourful, Ladies Day is the perfect excuse to make a bit of an effort and enjoy yourself. For many people, getting ready is all part of the fun. Finding the right outfit, getting your hair done, booking a spray tan or having your makeup professionally applied all help you feel confident before you even arrive at the racecourse.

A fresh manicure, a favourite pair of shoes and a few carefully chosen accessories can finish off the look perfectly. A stylish hat,

fascinator or hairpiece can still add something special to your outfit, but there is no rule saying you have to go over the top. Some people prefer a simple, elegant look, while others enjoy making a bold fashion statement. The most important thing is to wear something that makes you feel comfortable and confident.

Ladies Day is not just for the ladies either. More and more men enjoy dressing for the occasion with a smart suit, sports jacket or blazer, polished shoes and a colourful tie or pocket square all adding to the occasion.

Looking well does not have to mean spending a fortune.

It is simply about taking pride in your appearance and making the effort. One of the best things about Ladies

Day is the atmosphere.

There is a real buzz around Gowran Park as friends and families meet up, music fills the air and everyone enjoys the excitement of the racing. It is a chance to relax, have a laugh, take plenty of photographs and make memories that will last long after the final race. So, if you are planning your Ladies Day outfit, do not forget the little finishing touches. A glowing tan, beautifully styled hair, fresh makeup or a favourite accessory can make all the difference. Whether you are dressing up in a beautiful dress or pulling on your best suit, wear something that makes you feel good, enjoy the company around you and make the most of a fantastic Ladies Day at Gowran Park.

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Opinion

Mortal Sins, venial Sins, and sins that weren't sins at all

Part two

View of Green Street in Callan from the Big Chapel

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Last week I recounted how Fr. Bob (not his real name) led morality patrols around Callan and district in search of courting couples he believed to be in need of salvation.

Another big issue in those days was the vexed question of what exactly was a sin.

While many sins were clearly defined as such, others were shrouded in doubt and obfuscation.

This dilemma caused a lot of anxiety among Callan folk, as it did in every other parish in Catholic Ireland. People stayed up all night wondering

if they had committed a sin.

You had to be careful whom you asked. Jokers and smartalecks were never in short supply when your conscience bothered you.

They might lead you astray by persuading you that a certain course of action or behaviour, or certain thought projections, were sinful when they knew quite well that these carried no penalty and were not mentioned anywhere in the Ten Commandments, the Seven Deadly Sins, or in any part of Catholic Canon Law. “Pub theologians” deceived many well-meaning people in Callan into living out their entire lives avoiding perfectly normal and wholesome activities in the belief that the church’s blanket ban on sin encompassed their behaviour.

Yet, as with all traditions that pose a difficulty to one section of the population, the strict observance of Catholicism went down well with a sizable percentage of Irish people, and Callan was no exception to this rule.

The late Tess Roche of Kilbride, when I spoke to her in 2003, looked back with nostalgia at the celebration of the Latin Mass. Though you couldn’t understand a word of what the priest was saying, and he had his back turned to parishioners most of the time, there was a certain beauty in the ritual and in the centuriesold liturgy that evoked the wisdom and mystery of a world removed from our own.

People said their own prayers, the ones they had learned before they could talk, as the priest communed with

God in a language spoken by pontiffs of the past and ancient Roman emperors. A few parishioners had missals to read from: these carried English translations of the Mass.

Confession, The Rosary, the Stations, Holy Family gatherings, and the urgency of repenting for one’s sins were central to the lives of Callan and Windgap people when Tess was a young girl. She knew the sins off by heartthere were hundreds of themand could, like most schoolgirls in her day, tell the crucial difference between venial and mortal sins: If you died in a state of Mortal Sin, The lad down below with the horns and the gleaming red eyes would be waiting for you. There was no appeal to a higher court if you “snuffed it” before reaching a Pipers at a 1921 funeral in Callan

St Martin of Tours as depicted in stained glass in Callan parish church

confession box or saying an Act of Contrition.

But if you had committed a venial sin, roughly the equivalent of a misdemeanour in Civil Law, you had to “do time” in Purgatory- the length of one’s sentence depending on how repentant you were… on how much sanctifying grace you had earned through good deeds to offset your bad deeds; on your friends and relatives who could pray for you, and, controversially, on how much “indulgence money” was paid into church funds to persuade God to shorten your sentence.

Tess had a clear knowledge of both the red and green catechisms. She recalled that Bishop Butler wrote the red one, which was highly regarded for its clarity and uncompromising version of what God actually meant in the Gospels and throughout

his Old Testament “Eye for an Eye” appearances. You knew where you stood with the red catechism: Dr. Butler took no prisoners.

Another feature of attending mass in the old days that Tess found intriguing was the practise of reading out the names of parishioners who had contributed money at the stations, and mentioning the actual amounts they had donated!

Michael Kehoe of Ahenure was the first on the list, because his address happened to begin with the first letter of the alphabet.

The Mission arrived in town every four years. It lasted two weeks- one week for the women of the parish, and another for the men. This “refresher course” in Christianity involved endless sermonising about the nature of good and evil…but mostly evil.

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: NEWS, LAUNCHES OR EVENTS ACROSS HOMES & GARDENS? CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Homes & Gardens

No-dig cardboard beds

Jay’s Photography

GARDEN HACK Daria K

Before you throw cardboard into the recycling bin, consider using it in the garden. Plain, brown cardboard can make a handy weed-suppressing layer in beds and borders.

Remove any tape or glossy labels, then lay the cardboard flat over weedy ground. Wet it well so it stays in place, then cover it with compost, bark mulch, leaf mould or grass cuttings. The cardboard blocks light, which helps stop weeds growing, while slowly breaking down into the soil.

It’s really useful if you want to start a new flower bed without digging up half the garden. Worms love the damp layer underneath, and over time they help pull organic matter down into the soil.

Avoid shiny or heavily printed cardboard, and don’t pile it right up against plant stems.

Wax on, slide on HOME HACK Christina & Peter

Rural housing rules set for shake-up HOMES Rural housing rules could be set for a major shake-up, in a move that may help families across Kilkenny hoping to build close to home.

As announced recently, the Government’s draft National Planning Statement would replace the 2005 rural housing guidelines and bring in a more consistent national approach to one-off homes in the countryside.

At the moment, if you’re looking to build on family land or near where you grew up, you can face different rules depending on the county or local authority area. Ministers

say the new policy is designed to end that “Eircode lottery” and make the system clearer.

Under the draft rules, people who want to return to, or remain in, their rural community may have a better chance of getting planning permission, provided they meet normal planning requirements. These still include site suitability, design, road access, wastewater treatment and environmental impact.

A key change is how “local need” would be assessed. In some rural settlements of fewer than 1,500 people, local need rules would no longer apply. In more sensitive rural areas, applicants may still

Three easy steps to a more organic garden GARDEN

If a wooden drawer keeps sticking, don’t force it - grab an ordinary candle.

Pull the drawer out and look for the runners, the strips of wood or rails it slides along. Rub an unlit candle along those contact points, then slide the drawer in and out a few times to spread the wax. The thin wax coating helps reduce friction, so the drawer should move more smoothly without needing oil or messy sprays.

It works well on older wooden furniture, kitchen dressers, bedside lockers and wardrobes where the timber has swollen slightly or dried out over time.

Use plain candle wax rather than a heavily scented or coloured candle, especially on pale wood. If the drawer is badly warped or damaged, it may still need a proper repair, but for everyday sticking, this is a quick, cheap fix hiding in the junk drawer.

Going organic in the garden doesn’t have to mean changing everything overnight. A few small swaps can make your outdoor space healthier for plants, wildlife and the soil beneath your feet.

1. Feed the soil, not just the plants Good soil is the heart of an organic garden. Instead of reaching for chemical fertilisers, start adding compost, leaf mould or well-rotted manure to beds and borders. These natural feeds improve soil structure, help it hold moisture and encourage worms and beneficial microbes.

Even a small compost bin for kitchen peelings, grass cuttings and leaves can make a big difference over time.

2. Ditch the quick chemical fixes Pesticides may deal with one problem, but they can also harm useful insects such as bees, ladybirds and hoverflies. Try simple alternatives first. Pick off slugs by hand, use netting to protect vegetables and encourage natural predators by growing flowers such as lavender, calendula and nasturtiums. A healthy, varied garden is often better able to look after itself.

3. Choose plants that suit your garden

have to show a local connection, but the test would be simplified.

Social need could be shown by proving that the applicant lived within a certain distance of the proposed site for a set number of years. In many rural areas, this would mean within 10km over seven years, while stricter areas could require a 3km connection over 10 years.

Economic need would also be broadened. While farming has long been recognised, the draft statement says other rural occupations may count, including teachers or gardaí.

Remote working alone would not be enough.

Another change concerns people who already own a home elsewhere. Under the draft approach, a person may still qualify if they have not previously built a home in that rural area.

There would also be safeguards. Where permission is granted on local need grounds, a proposed 10-year occupancy condition would require the applicant to live in the house as their main home.

The rules are not in force yet. The draft must go through environmental screening and consultation before final approval, with ministers indicating the new system could be in place by year end.

Vito Vidović

Organic gardening is much easier when plants are happy where they are. Pick varieties suited to your soil, light and local weather. Native plants, herbs and pollinator-friendly flowers are usually good

choices, as they need less fuss and provide food for insects.

The best organic gardens are not perfect; they are alive.

A few weeds, insects and nibbled leaves are all part of the balance.

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Food & Drink Paul Sherwood

Sausage and tomato pasta bake RECIPE

A pasta bake is a great midweek dinner because it is filling, simple and usually popular with both children and adults. This version uses sausages, tomato sauce and plenty of cheese, but you can easily add extra vegetables.

Serves: 4 Cooking time: 35–40 minutes

Kilkenny chef wins top award AWARDS Kilkenny chef Rory Nolan has been named Foodservice Chef of the Year at the Gold Medal Catering Awards, adding another national honour for the county’s food scene.

Rory, who leads the FoodSpace team at the Abbott facility in Kilkenny, took home the gold award at the black-tie ceremony in Clontarf Castle, Dublin, on Friday, July 3.

The awards recognise excellence across Ireland’s catering and foodservice industry, from workplace dining and healthcare to events, education and sustainability. Rory had been shortlisted along-

side chefs from Compass Group Ireland at RCSI, Emerald Bites, The Mulligan Room at Macroom Golf Club and The Q Cafe Company.

His win follows steady recognition for his work at FoodSpace. A recent FoodSpace profile described Rory’s route into cooking as “anything but traditional”, noting that he moved from engineering into hospitality after time spent bartending and working in hotels.

That varied background appears to have shaped his practical, creative approach in the kitchen. Rory is described as a chef who puts a strong focus on Irish ingredients,

local sourcing and sustainability. He has spoken about wanting to showcase Ireland’s strengths in beef, dairy and fresh produce, while also using ingredients from local suppliers such as Riverfield Organic Farm.

Sustainability is also central to his zero-waste approach, including using the whole chicken rather than only prime cuts, with thighs, drumsticks and bones turned into dishes such as pies, jerk chicken and broths.

His day-to-day work at Abbott Kilkenny begins early, with deliveries, fridge checks and team coordination before breakfast and lunch service.

Building a good cheese board FOOD

A good cheese board doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive.

The best ones are usually built around a few well-chosen ingredients, with a mix of flavours, textures and colours.

Start with three cheeses. A soft cheese, a hard cheese and a blue or stronger cheese will give plenty of variety. For example, you might choose a creamy brie-style cheese, a mature cheddar and a small piece of blue cheese. If you are serving people who prefer milder flavours, swap the blue for a smoked or semi-soft cheese.

Once the cheese is sorted, add something crisp. Crackers, oatcakes, sourdough toast or fresh bread all work well. Then bring in something sweet, such as grapes, sliced

apple, figs, honey or chutney.

A little sweetness balances the saltiness of the cheese and makes the board more interesting.

Nuts, olives, pickles or cured meats can be added if you want a fuller board, but they are not essential. The aim is balance, not clutter. Leave enough space so people can see what’s on offer and cut the cheeses easily.

Take the cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving, as it will taste better at room temperature.

Use a separate knife for strong or blue cheese if possible.

Most importantly, keep it relaxed. A good cheese board is about sharing, grazing and enjoying good food without too much fuss. Add one or two local choices, and it becomes even better.

Justin Agyarko

He is also involved in menu planning, ordering and keeping the kitchen running smoothly.

Rory has said one of his favourite parts of the job is finding creative ways to use leftovers, turning stew into pie or sausages into a spicy rigatoni.

There was more Kilkenny success on the night too, with ISS at Vhi Kilkenny taking silver in the Sustainability Site of the Year category.

The double result gives Kilkenny plenty to celebrate, with both individual talent and local foodservice teams recognised on the national stage at this year’s awards.

Ingredients • 300g pasta, such as penne or fusilli • 6 sausages • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 red pepper, chopped • 1 courgette, grated or finely chopped • 1 tin chopped tomatoes • 2 tablespoons tomato purée • 1 teaspoon dried mixed herbs or oregano • A pinch of sugar • Salt and black pepper • 100g grated cheddar or mozzarella • Optional: a handful of spinach or frozen peas Method Preheat the oven to 200°C / 180°C fan.

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted, boiling water for two minutes less than the packet instructions. Drain and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan. Remove the sausages from their skins and break the meat into small pieces, or simply slice the sausages into chunks. Fry for 6 to 8 minutes until browned.

Add the onion, garlic, red pepper and courgette to the pan and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, mixed herbs, sugar, salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir in spinach or peas at this point if using.

Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, then transfer everything to an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.

Serve with salad, garlic bread or steamed vegetables. This recipe is also useful for leftovers, as it reheats well the next day. You can swap the sausages for cooked chicken, mince or lentils, and you can hide extra grated vegetables in the sauce for fussier eaters.

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews three levels with Leon Delaney, Johnboy Hawe and Tadgh Power at Under 14 level while Stephen Mc Cormack was with the Under 15’s and JJ Cahill playing at Under 16 level. Well done boys.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated June 30th. The numbers drawn were 5, 11, 22and 27. The bonus number was 28.

Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Teresa Nolan c/o Ml Nolan. 2. Kathleen Burke c/o JJ Cullen.

3. Ann Doran c/o B Maher. 4. The Sunday Six. 5.

Patty O’Neill c/o B Maher. 6. Paddy Hayes c/o P Greene. 7. Grace Loy c/o N Loy. 8. Eddie Maher c/o Online. 9. Mark Bergin c/o Online 10. Majella Bolger c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

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

CLARA

SPONSORED CYCLE Well done to the local lads who did a sponsored Laura Green in action

CLUB LOTTO The Lotto results for 30th June. Did not produce a winner. |The numbers drawn were 3, 6, 18. but we have 5 lucky dip winners (€30) who are Mary Fitzpatrick, Eileen Fitzpatrick, Deirdre Brennan, Dara Cooke and Michael Beatty.

PILTOWN DRAW We had two winners in the second draw (30th June). Congrats to Elaine Owens (€150) and Marilyn and Ger Langton (€100). It’s great to have club winners after the huge support shown, best of luck next draw (14th July) and thank you all for your support!

ATHLETICS Well done to Pia Langton of Clara and Kilkenny City Harriers who won the National U20 800m Championship at the weekend in Tullamore.

Not alone did Pia take the title but she also set a championship record time of 2:08.15.

COUNTY SCENE Congratulations to Emma Shortall who was on the Kilkenny senior camogie team that eked out a narrow extra time victory over Waterford in Saturday’s quarter final fixture in Croke Park. The win sets up a semifinal meeting with the reigning All Ireland champions Galway.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS CAMOGIE SUCCESS CONTINUES Congratulations to the Kilkenny Senior camogie team and in particular to O’Loughlin Gaels’ Laura Murphy and Laura Greene on reaching the semifinal of the Glen Dimplex All Ireland championship when they defeated Waterford by 2-19 to 1-19 after extra-time in the quarterfinal played in Croke Park last weekend. Both O’Loughlins players were on the scoresheet, and Laura Murphy overcame an early injury scare to produce a player of the match performance. They will play Galway in the All-Ireland semi-final.

HANDBALL TITLE FOR PADDY Congratulations to O’Loughlin’s Paddy Delaney who along with Dylan Caulfield (Kilfane) won the Leinster 60x30 junior doubles handball championship for Kilkenny defeating Dublin by 21-14 and 21-15 in the final played in Coolgraney, Co. Wexford. Well done and best of luck in the AllIreland semi-final.

NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT SQUADS HURLING DAY 3 Last weekend was a busy one for Kilkenny’s Na Cait Óga Academy teams with the Under 14’s, Under 15’s and Under 16’s all in action in the National Development Squads Hurling Day 3.

O’Loughlin Gaels players were involved at all

Kilkenny’s Laura Murphy is presented the player of the match award from Brian Molloy.

cycle in Kerry last weekend in memory of local lad Luke Crosby who died followed an accident at age 17. This is the second year his relations and friends have done the cycle and raised money for charity. Well done to all involved MAX ON IRISH SIDE Local lad Max O’Neill was part of the Irish U14 soccer team who took part in SFAI tournament recently. Max was the only Kilkenny representative. Max was also captain of the Kilkenny team who took part in the Kennedy cup competition in Limerick the previous week.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Michael Bowden, Woodview on the recent death of his brother Nicholas Bowden late of Village View Errill, Co Laois. Funeral mass took place in the Queen of the Universe Church, Errill followed by burial in Bealady Cemetery, Rathdowney.

CAMP Freshford longest running camp takes place from the 27th to 30th July at the local GAA grounds.

This camp has been running for over two decades and is organised by local man JJ Grace and his team and have a wide range of activities catering for all boys and girls from senior infants up to 6th class. There are a few spaces available and for booking or more info please contact JJ on 0868629666.

BIRTHDAY Special birthday wishes go out to Anna Cleere, Clashacrow who celebrated her 21st birthday last weekend.

SOCCER All is quiet now on the field of play, but there has been fantastic progress at the new facilities in Woodview over the past few months. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, the brand-new astro turf pitch is now complete and officially open for bookings.

Whether you’re looking to organise a training session, a friendly match, or a community event, the new surface provides an excellent facility for all ages and abilities to enjoy throughout the year. Bookings can be made easily through the SportsKey online portal. For further information, availability, or any booking enquiries, please contact a committee member or send us a message through our social media pages. We look forward to welcoming you to Woodview soon.

AWARD Freshford Town were awarded the FAI club mark award recently This is an award for grassroots clubs based on best practice in their governance management and administration. The programme aims to support and encourage clubs to improve standards at the club involved in the challenge.

GAA NEWS At Lachtains U16 hurlers were beaten by Dicksboro in the quarter final of the A league last week on a score of 4-22 to 5-16.

The U14s lost out to Glenmore in the quarter finals stages on a scoreline of 5-15 to 4-1.

The junior B side take on Ballyragget in the first round of the championship on Friday evening in Pairc Lachtain at 7 pm The U16s start their roinn B A league/championship campaign on Monday evening against St Martin’s at 7pm. You can check the club’s social media page for all fixtures.

RACE NIGHT The club will hold their annual race night at Kilkenny greyhound stadium at James Park on 17th July. You can contact any committee member for purchase of tickets or sponsorship details.

LOTTO There was no winner of the jackpot last week.

Numbers were 1,5,15and 31 The lucky dip winners were. Benny Quinn (€50) S Farrell and E O’Donnell (€25 each) Tickets are €2 each and you can play online through Clubzap or from any of the local sellers.

GAA CAMP This year’s summer camp will take place from 10/13th August. Details can be found on the

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Community & GAA Notes Club’s social media page or contact Michael Farrell or Deirdre Dalton to register.

BRIDGE Summer Bridge has recently commenced in Threecastles Hall (R95 WK45) and is proving to be an enjoyable evening of cards, conversation, and friendly competition. Sessions take place every week at 7.30pm, and players of all abilities are warmly welcome. Whether you’re an experienced player or just interested in learning, come along and join us.

SPLIT THE POT Split the pot proceeds for June went to Freshford Tidy towns and last week’s winner was Noel Bergin who won €120. Tickets are just €2 and can be purchased in any of the local pubs or businesses and they thank everyone for your support throughout the month.

PARISH NEWS Masses each Tuesday and Friday morning in St Lachtain’s church at 9.30am (unless otherwise stated). Mass on Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church every third Saturday evening.

CEMETERY MASS The annual cemetery mass took place in St Lachtain’s Cemetery Freshford on Friday evening last with the weather very favourable. There was a big crowd in attendance. Mass was celebrated

by Fr. Mark Condon PP assisted by Fr. Gerard Doyle and Monsignor Ryan The annual mass in St Nicholas cemetery Tulla will take place on Saturday 1st August at 6.00pm.

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

OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It is located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941.

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

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

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

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

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

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB KILKENNY CAMOGIE Congratulations to the club’s camogie stars,

Niamh Deely and Michelle Teehan whose tenacious tacking on the left wing of the defence, for Kilkenny, played a major role in securing a hard won All-Ireland senior camogie quarter final victory over the battling Deise girls in Croke Park on Saturday afternoon. Their club mate Emily Smith was on call on the substitute bench.

The Kilkenny girls finally got over the line with a score of 2-19 to 1-19 after a gruelling additional 20 minutes of extra time in a highly competitive championship fixture. The club connection continues through juvenile officer Kieran Brennan who is a selector on Jimmy Meagher’s management team. The semi-final draw has pitted the Kilkenny girls against Galway in Semple Stadium, on Saturday ,25th July.

U-14 HURLING LEAGUE SHIELD FINAL The club’s winning streak of county league titles continued over the weekend when the U-14 hurlers captured the Kilkenny U-14 “A” league title with an exciting 3-13 to 1-17 victory over Dicksboro in Palmerstown. Aided by the breeze, Sean Larkin shot The Village into an early 3 point lead with an additional point from free-taker Donal Power before Dicksboro hit back forcibly with an unanswered 1-04 to take the lead at the quarter hour mark. The response from James Stephens was immediate as points from Conor Knox, J. J. Fogarty and a hard-won goal by Donal Power reestablished a single score lead for the Village. It was nip and tuck from there to the break as the ‘Boro responded to a Sean Larkin point with three points of their own to take a 1-08 to 1-07 lead into halftime. As expected Dicksboro, now with wind advantage, opened the 2nd half brightly knocking over 5 points in the first 10 minutes. Once again hard grafting Donal Power responded with a three pointer to keep the Village in touch at 2-07 to 1-13. With the home team continuing to hold a narrow lead, 3 points from Donal Power and a quality score from Conor Knox was needed to keep James Stephens in contention at 2-11 to 1-17 as the game neared an end. With inspired defending by Tommy Ryall and Art Cowhig the James Stephens defence gained the upper hand releasing Sean Larkin to rattle the ‘Boro net and with a point from Donal Power, and a classy score from J. J. Fogarty the visitors took a two-point lead into added time. In a final bid by Dicksboro to save the game a determined assault on the Village goal was repelled by Ewan Bolger after which the referee called an end to the game to give James Stephens the title with a score of 3-13 to 1-17. The winning panel included Charlie Holden, Eoghan O’Connor, Art Cowhig, Shay McKenna, Conor Parsons, James Butler, Tommy Ryall, Conor Knox, Cathal O’Brien, Sean O’ Keeffe, J. J. Fogarty, Aston Maher, Sean Larkin, Donal Power, Ewan Bolger, Briain O’Neill, Luke O’Connor Michael Parsons, Oscar Doyle, Pauric Ryan, and Donnacha O’Flaherty.

SUMMER CAMP Co-ordinator Kieran Brennan confirms that booking forms for the annual James Stephens club Summer Camp will be sent out to each Hurling and Camogie age group in the next week. The camp will be held from Monday 10th to Friday 14th August in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. The camp is exclusive to club members, boys and girls in primary schools.

CEMETERY MASS The popular annual Foulkstown cemetery mass will be celebrated on Thursday evening 30th July at 7.30pm. Along with parish folk, family members from the city and further afield attend the annual Mass of Remembrance in great numbers in memory of departed loved ones and friends.

It is also an opportunity to renew acquaintances and enjoy a chat with friends and neighbours from bygone days. Our thanks to the Cemetery Committee who continue to keep the cemetery in pristine condition all year round.

LIBRARY NEWS Loughboy librarian, Alan Dunne would like to encourage parents/ guardians to avail of the FREE issue of the 2026 Little Library Bags initiative.

The bag contains two story books, a library card wallet and resources and is available for children starting Junior Infants in September. Families are invited to visit the library and collect their bag and join the library.

CRANNCHUR (LOTTO)

Niamh Deely interrupts Eimear O’Neill

Michelle Teehan making things difficult for Waterford

Emily Smith in action

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Community & GAA Notes Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite 10, 12, 17, 31. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir. Na mionduaisneanna: Shane Pollard, Dinny Lanigan, Rita Leahy, Alison Brett and Orthan Erinc. Mar is gnath go raibh agaibh go leir as bhur dtachtaoicht. (As always, our thanks to all who continue to support the draw).

BENNETTSBRIDGE CRAFTED IS BACK ON SUNDAYS The popular Crafted Cafe in the village is now open on Sundays for the summer season. Well worth a visit and all the goodies are home made from local produce.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Delia Walsh, Woodlawn and the Hayes family, Thomastown, on the death of Declan (Dec) Hynes, Newtown, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny and Formerly of Station Road, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny. Declan died at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny. He was predeceased by his parents Jim and Rosalind and son Jonathan. Sadly missed be his loving wife Kate, sons Timmy, Ben, Chris, Adam and Colm, daughter Eva, grandchildren Kyle, Nathan and Grace, brother Seamus, sisters Delia and Anne, Kate’s parents Joe and Joan Hayes, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, extended family and many friends.

Declan lay in repose in the Mercy Side Chapel, Church of the Assumption, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny with Rosary and Vigil prayers at 6.30pm.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption, Thomastown followed by burial in St Mary’s New Cemetery, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.

NELLIE EGAN RIP Sympathy goes to the Egan family, Newhouse, Thomastown on the death of Nellie Egan in the care of the staff in the Acute Stroke Unit, St Luke’s Hospital Kilkenny on 2nd July. Nellie was predeceased by her husband John, son Michael, brother Peter Dooley and sister Margaret Galway.

Sadly, missed by her son Fran, grandchildren Iain, Jake and Maeve, great grandchildren Sadie and Sophie Egan, sister-in-law Lucy Dooley, daughters-in-law Bernie and Martina, grand daughters-in-law Lisa and Mary, grand son-inlaw Michael, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Nellie lay in repose at her residence with Rosary and Vigil prayers at 7pm. Removal took place to St Bennetts Church, Bennettsbridge where Requiem Mass was celebrated by Fr Dermot Ryan on Sunday 5th July followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

RAILWAY MEETING Members of the Kilkenny Railway Heritage Society attended at the Community Hall Ben-

nettsbridge to gather information on the history of the Railway in the Bennettsbridge area. Locals attended and recalled names of those who worked on the railway in the area at the Station, at level crossings and elsewhere on the ‘permanent way’.

The Society is still interested in hearing from local people who can recall names of those locals who were associated with the railway in any way. The KRHS would also like to see any railway memorabilia such as old photographs, tickets, pay slips, employment forms etc. Of course, anecdotal stories are always welcome too. Further information should be submitted to Donie Butler Chair KRHS 9 Troy’s Court, Loreto View, Kilkenny R95 CXK8 or by email to kkrailwayhs@gmail.com or Tel: 087-315 6359. A number of locals have already submitted information via email.

DOG FOULING Concern is being expressed locally about dog fouling on the pathways especially on the Gowran Road area. Owners of dogs are asked to pick up after their pets in the interests of public safety.

ART GROUP Meetings continue each Monday as artists preparer for the Annual Art Exhibition in August.

Tutor Julie Moorhouse has been invaluable to the group for the past number of years, and her enthusiasm continues to inspire each artist. The East End United Awards

support of the CKETB Carlow Kilkenny Educational Training Board with Siobhan O’Brien and her team is also acknowledged.

LOTTO The results for 29th June are as follows, there was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbers drawn were, 3, 19, 23, 26. Consolation Prizes went to, Cleere + 5, c/o Joan, Noel Skehan, Fintan Cleere, Shane Dowling, Liam O’Keeffe, C/o R. Cody EAST END SOCCER A huge congratulations to all award winners from East End United Awards Night last weekend.

Player of the Year and Most Improved Award Winners U12 Girls. Joint Player of the Year: Lauren Prendergast and Lucy Selmon. Most Improved: Rose Kinsella. U13 Girls. Joint Player of the Year: Sophie Dowling and Mealla Crowley.

U13 Boys. Player of the Year: Robbie Dobbyn.

Most Improved: Rory Tyrell. U14 Girls. Joint Player of the Year: Kate Matthews and Chloe Reade.

U14 Boys League Champions. East End and KDL Player of the Year: Danny Martin. Most Improved: Louie Kelly Doyle. U15 Boys Greens. Player of the Year: Danny Reade. U15 Boys Yellows. Player of the Year: Michael Ryan. U16 Girls. Joint Player of the Year: Leah Croke and Holly Meighan. Junior B. Player of the Year: Alex Begley. Junior A. East End and KDL Player of the Year: Noah Walsh Brennan A very special congratulations to Damien Grimes who was deservedly named Club Person of the Year in recognition of his tireless work, commitment and dedication to East End United. The club simply wouldn’t be the same without him, a thoroughly deserved honour.

Also recognised were, Jack Minogue, Harry Brennan and Robbie O’Malley, who were presented with commemorative mementos in honour of representing East End United while proudly wearing the Kilkenny jersey this season.

Finally, congratulations to every player who received an award and to all of our players, coaches, volunteers and supporters for another fantastic season. Your hard work, dedication and commitment continue to make East End United a club to be proud of.

GAA Junior B Championship. Good luck to our junior B team who play Conahy in Bennettsbridge at home this Friday at 7.30 in the championship first round. All support much appreciated.

Underage Games. The under 14 team play Graigue Ballycallan in the league semi final this weekend. Please see the Kilkenny Gaa website for details. Our minors played Glenmore away on July 6th in the first round of the league / championship. Our younger age groups are now in action in go games and tournaments. Best wishes to all involved. Well done to the Bennettsbridge players involved in the county underage squads at the weekend.

PILTOWN DRAW Thanks again to all who bought and sold tickets this year and hopefully we will have some success in the third draw which takes place on July.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN The Bennettsbridge GAA Pitch signage campaign is still available for businesses to avail of an opportunity to advertise their product. Many thanks to all the business owners who have supported the club so far. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

SPLIT THE POT The next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Thanks again for the support.

GRAIGUEMANAGH

East End United Awards Group

CAMOGIE CLUB Now that the dust has settled after a long hot day in Tinryland GAA Club for the National John West Feile finals on 20th June, we can only look back with pride on what our U15 girls achieved.

They were our first club team to reach a Feile final, and they gave 100% effort from the first to the last game.

Féile Match Results. Match 1 v Clongeen, Win 3-03 to 0-04. Match 2 v St. Lazarians Win 0-08 to 1-03. Match 3 v Setanta Win 2-06 to 0-01. Semifinal v Clan Na Gael Win 2-09 to 0-0.

Final v Harps Graig 1-04 Harps 2-02, we lose by a

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Community & GAA Notes single point.

To lose by a point in extra time of a Feile final is very difficult and is a massive disappointment for the girls who left all they had to give on the pitch that day. Every hook, block and strike was carried out with superb skill, and we could not have asked any more of any girl on the team.

Their resilience is amazing and we thank them for making Graiguenamanagh Camogie Club and Kilkenny Camogie very proud.

Thanks also to the management team of Declan, John, Tom and Kirstie. Our nominated volunteers: umpire Shane and linesman Jamie. The girls’ families. Our jersey sponsors Byrne and McCabe. The supporters who travelled on the day from the GAA and Camogie community and to everyone who supported the Feile Fundraiser.

Thanks to Setanta Ceatharlach for hosting.

We’re so lucky to have amazing support from the community. Thanks so much to Kyra and Pat who sponsored our junior team’s training jerseys. Abbey Lane, Mick Doyle’s Pub is one of the best intimate gig venues in Ireland.

The team were also supplied with refreshing Revive Active supplements to incorporate into their training/recovery regime. Thanks to their Manager, Mick for arranging this.

CRUCHAIN HILL Rosary will be recited at the cross on Cruchain Hill on Sunday 12th July at 5pm.

DUISKE PLAYERS As a group we appreciate the support we get yearly with each of our productions, and we feel it’s good to pay that forward. Before we take a break for the summer months we were delighted to present two cheques to two very worthy charities, our local Camogie girls and also Matandani Primary School Malawi where our very own Caroline Cotter is heading to work for six weeks, we hope our contribution will help both beneficiaries. The Duiske Players were delighted to showcase the group today as part of Pride of Place judging in Graignamanagh. We were especially proud to have our member Lily Brennan depict the great Graignamanagh character that is Peg Washington as part of the walking tour.

Well done to Lily and Edel for coordinating the group involvement and massive well done to the organising committee who put in a superb effort and a tremendous amount of hard work a great proud day for Graignamanagh for sure, and we were delighted to be involved.

GRAIG’S HERITAGE GOES DIGITAL We are delighted to announce that with the help of funding from the Heritage Council, together with Tidy Town funds, Graigs heritage trail and monks trail can now be accessed and followed by phone! The newly installed interpretative panels beside the Globe and at the Dry Dock (on the foot entrance to the Hub) have a QR code which launches the trails, audio guide & some lovely imagery of the town in times past.

A huge thank you to the people who helped us with this; Abarta Heritage, Signiatec, the Heritage Council, Graignamanagh Historical Society, Kilkenny County Council and the Tidy Towns Committee. A huge thanks also to Miriam Cushen and Brenda Foley for making this happen.

Looking forward to seeing locals and visitors exploring our town and discovering our hidden gems.

ABBEY HALL Well done everyone, the town looks amazing for the pride of place judges. Lots of work done at the hall the last few weeks, thank you to our caretakers Tetiana and Rory, and Katerina for her admin duties. We set up for the pride of place awards to show just some of the groups and activities that the hall is used for.

GAA Congratulations to the town development team and wishing Graiguenamanagh the very best in the Pride of Place judging – well done to all! It was brilliant to see so many people out supporting Graiguenamanagh and showcasing everything that makes the town so special. The community spirit on display was incredible, and everyone who helped, volunteered, or simply came out to show their support you were amazing.

HIGHVIEW We’d like to pass on our deepest condolences to the Meadows family after the passing Jim

Congratulations to Barrow Rangers who won the U14A League Final

Meadows.

Jim was instrumental in the set up and progress of our underage set up in the 90’s and 00’s and most people in Graignamanagh of a certain age would have been coached by him, he also had a stint as A team manager. Always talking of his love for Sheffield Wednesday, he was a great football man and a great club man with Highview Athletic for many years.

ULLARD CEMETERY Mass will take place at Ullard Cemetery on Friday 17th July at 7.30 pm.

ROWING Henley Royal Regatta 2026: This week, eleven past and present members of Graiguenamanagh Rowing Club attended Henley Royal Regatta and had a truly memorable time. We want to offer our congratulations to Ross Duffy, who qualified for Henley and competed for Lea Rowing Club during the week.

Henley Royal Regatta was an amazing spectacle to witness - colourful blazers galore, grandstand viewing of races, and jugs of Pimm’s all under glorious sunshine.

Community Notices GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN BARROW BUS Spread the word and book your free trip at: https://barrowbus. palisis.com/ BARROW RANGERS There was no overall winner of the jackpot of the 30th June lotto draw. Match 3 winners were (€75 each): Denis Beale and Shauna Tigue.

Congratulations to Barrow Rangers who won the U14A League Final.

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

Weekday Masses: Goresbridge on Wednesday at 10am; Paulstown on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am.

Adoration (concluding with Benediction) every Tuesday from 10.30am-6pm in Paulstown church.

The Legion of Mary meets each Thursday at 3pm in the parish hall, Paulstown. New members welcome. The Sacred Heart prayer group gathers every Friday after 10am mass in Paulstown.

Goresbridge church Cemetery mass: Friday 25 July at 7.30pm.

Church of Ireland services on Sunday 12 July: 11.30am at Grange Sylvae, Goresbridge.

CNUAS MUSICAL CONCERT Advance notice: Friday 5th September at 8pm Tom Healy

in Ionad Dara hall. Tickets available from Gerry Kavanagh, Martha Kelly, Mary Meaney or Ciara Murphy.

CEMETERY CLEAN UP A clean up will take place at 7pm on Tuesday, 15th and 22nd July.

TALKING THE TALK “Cúpla Focal” is a welcoming Irish language conversation circle held every Friday at the Goodly Barrow Cafe. The gathering provides a relaxed and friendly environment where people can practice speaking Irish, improve their confidence, and meet others with a shared interest in the language and culture.

Open to everyone from complete beginners to fluent speakers, the group focuses on informal conversation, encouragement, and learning through everyday chat. Whether you want to revive your school Irish, sharpen your fluency, or simply enjoy a social evening with fellow Gaeilgeoirí, Cúpla Focal offers an enjoyable and supportive space to use the language in a natural way.

MEN’S SHED The next get together will be on Tuesday 14th July at the Cabin beside Paulstown Community Hall.

SCOIL BHRÍDE (GORESBRIDGE) The Board of Management, the Parents Association along with the Parish Community of Gorsebridge, joins with the entire Scoil Bhríde School Family in saying farewell and expressing a sincere and heartfelt thanks to two very special members of the school community Nora McDonald and Mary Murphy as they retire after many years of dedicated and loyal service. Nora served as Principal for many years. Heartfelt welcome to Ms Leasa (Byrne) Walsh who takes up her new position in September.

SPLIT THE POT In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results of the lotto draw for 5th July were: 1.

The Brannach (€100) 2. Mary Skelton (€20) and 3.

Linda McNamara (€20).

TAR ISTEACH Bric a brac including household items, unwanted gifts, unwanted toiletry sets, delph, dishes, cutlery are all welcome at the Tar Isteach shop in Goresbridge. Items should be in a saleable condition. Quality handbags are welcome.

at 7:30pm and in St. Molua’s graveyard, Killaloe on 4th August at 7:30pm.

KILMANAGH PATTERN Kilmanagh Pattern and Naomh Nadáil’s Seisúin will take place in Ryan’s Bar, Kilmanagh on July 31st following the rosary and blessing of graves in St. Aidan’s Churchyard. There will be set dancing and an open trad seisúin from 8:00pm onwards. All are welcome.

SUMMER CAMP Graigue Ballycallan will hold a summer camp for boys and girls from 5 – 13 years on August 4th to August 7th. Cost is €50 per child and €45 for additional sibling. Main activities consist of hurling, camogie, gaelic, soccer, art, dance, music, games and parachute fun. Contact Darragh on 087 2716 431 for more information.

CLOTHES COLLECTION Naomh Aodhan Community Centre will be holding a Clothes Collection over the coming weeks.

If you are thinking of doing a summer clearout please think of us. We can take clothes, duvet covers, pillowcases, sheets, handbags, shoes (in pairs only), belts. We cannot take duvets or pillows. If you want any further information, please contact 086 373 99 83.

ANNUAL SCRAP METAL COLLECTION Míle buíochas to all who helped to make the Scrap Metal Collection 2026 another successful venture. A special word of thanks to the Harris Family for the generous use of their facilities, once more. As ever, all proceeds raised go towards the upkeep of Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh.

LOTTO Results for 29th June. Numbers drawn were 4; 6; 12; 29. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Marie Carroll, Mairead Bannon, Conor McGuinness c/o Kay McGuinness. Sellers’ Prizes went to Josie Ronan and Gearoid Cleere.

BALLYKEEFFE AMPHITHEATRE EVENTS July 18th: Heaven Can Wait - Meat Loaf Experience. July 25th: Rebel Rebel - David Bowie Tribute August 8th: Hothouse Flowers. August 15th: Derek Ryan and Guests. August 22nd: Cry Before Dawn. Tickets: ballykeeffeamphitheatre.com KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

KILMANAGH

KILMACOW

MASS SCHEDULE Mass will be celebrated at 6pm on July 11th in Tulla and July 18th in Kilmanagh.

CEMETERY MASSES Rosary and Blessing of Graves will take place in St. Aidan’s Churchyard, Kilmanagh on 31st July

ROSEDALE BOOK The book on Rosedale, ’40 years Caring and Sharing’ by Liam Dalton, is on sale at €20 in local retail outlets and directly from Rosedale. It is a great account of the development of Rosedale from its convent days to the residential home it

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Community & GAA Notes has now become.

LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 6, 12, 17 and 21. There were four Match 3 winners.

KILMACOW HERITAGE The working group for the older graveyards will be carrying out maintenance work in Ballinamorahan from 2.00pm on Saturday, 11th July. All offers of help will be welcomed.

HURLING AND CAMOGIE CAMP The Clubs will host a camp for boys and girls born in 2010, 2011 and 2012 from 10.00am to 2.00pm on Monday 15th July to Wednesday 17th July. Places are limited. The cost per player is €60. Please text 086 280 5954 or e-mail secretary. kilmacow.kilkenny@gaa.ie for more details.

LOCAL ENHANCEMENT SCHEME Three groups from Kilmacow were successful in this year’s round of grant awards under the Local Enhancement Programme Grant Scheme awards announced last week. Those who were successful with their applications included the Youth Club, Marian Hall and Kilmacow Mens Shed.

MULLINAVAT MULLINAVAT GAA Mullinavat won its first Junior Hurling League title in sixteen years with a hard-earned final victory over Southern neighbours Carrickshock at Hugginstown on Saturday. Back in 2010 it was in the “B” grade, this time it was the Roinn F, but it was just as competitive. (A report of this match can be read in the sports section of this newspaper) CLIMATE ACTION PROJECT Mullinavat Community Centre has completed its Community Climate Action Project to make the Centre a more sustainable and energy efficient building. Among the measures included in the

project were the installation of solar panels, upgraded lighting, the installation of EV charging points and a water refill station at the Centre and a water refill station and pollinator planting at the GAA Centre. The project was funded by the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment and supported by the Kilkenny County Council Climate Action Team, with special mention of Breda Maher and Claire Prendergast for their advice and assistance with this project.

MULLINAVAT CONNECTIVITY LOOP WALK There were thirteen submissions to Kilkenny County Council on the Mullinavat Connectivity Loop Walk. They have been reviewed and a report on them is due to be considered this week at a meeting of Piltown Municipal District Council.

MULLINAVAT LOTTO The winning lotto numbers on Monday, 29 th June were 2, 5, 10 and 27. There were two Match 3 winners.

KILMOGANNY FESTIVAL Declan Nerney and Band will perform in Kilmoganny GAA Grounds from 3.00pm to 5.00pm on Sunday, 2nd August. Music will begin at 2.00pm with a Garth Brooks tribute band. Admission is €20. Tickets are available at Pete’s Shop. All welcome for a great afternoon of music, dance, stalls, teas and refreshments and bar. Ring 051 648 637 for further details.

FERRYBANK FERRYBANK CAMOGIE The club’s fund-raising camogie blitz will take place on Saturday, 11th July. Teams from Waterford, Kilkenny and Meath will take part. There will be a raffle to coincide with the event. All support will be welcomed.

CLOVER CENTRE Submissions on the Masterplan lodged before 26th June are being reviewed and a report on them is due to be presented to the forthcoming

meeting of Kilkenny County Council.

Local Enhancement Scheme Clubs and organisations in Ferrybank were awarded a total of €8,940 under the Local Enhancement Programme Grant Scheme as announced by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Gaeltacht last week. The scheme was administered by the Local Community Development Committees in Kilkenny County Council and in Waterford City and County Council. Groups would like to acknowledge the advice and assistance of the Community Sections in both Councils and Area Partnerships. Among the recipients of grants announced for 2026 were Ferrybank Men’s Shed, Ferrybank Women’s Shed, Ferrybank Allotments, Ferrybank Bridge Club, Ferrybank Residents Community Development Group, Hillsfield Community Centre, Ferrybank Hurling and Camogie Club and Ferrybank Soccer Club.

UPGRADE OF L3412 AT BELVIEW Kilkenny County Council has given notice under Section 177 (Planning and Development Act) to seek Part X approval for upgrade works on the L3412 from the existing eastern IDA Ireland roundabout to provide access to the IDA Ireland landbank at Kilmurry, Belview, Slieverue. The closing date for submissions to An Commissiún Pleanála, 64 Marlborough Street, Dublin DO1 V902 is Wednesday, 5th August.

UPGRADE OF BELMONT AND ABBEY ROADS The Section 85 agreement from Waterford City and County Council has been received by Kilkenny County Council. The public consultation process for the upgrade of the Belmont Road and the Abbey Road is anticipated to begin in September.

SYDNEY MARATHON Local Ferrybank resident Gerard Tobin will run the Sydney Marathon in August. He is seeking to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society. Please

see the Ferrybank Facebook page for details.

JOHNSTOWN CEMETERY MASSES The following Cemetery masses will be held on Friday July 10th Fertagh 7.30pm, Friday July 17th Galmoy 7.30pm.

KNOCK The annual pilgrimage to Knock from Johnstown Parish will take place on Thursday August 6th. Bus leaving Johnstown 8am sharp. Fare € 50 which includes bus fare and dinner on the return journey. Names please to Marie Wilson 0868585158 or Sharkeys shop. Places are filling up.

SAVE THE DATE The Mill Family Resource Centre, Urlingford, invites everyone to a fantastic Family Fun Day on Sunday, August 16th, 2026, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Save the date and enjoy an afternoon filled with fun, activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Bring the whole family along for a memorable day together.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers 12,20,23,28, only produced one winner and that was Jack O’Gorman who was a match three winner. There was no winner of the jackpot, so you all will have to try harder!

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE The Mill Family Resource Centre, Urlingford, invites everyone to a fantastic Family Fun Day on Sunday, August 16, 2026, from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. Save the date and enjoy an afternoon filled with fun, activities, entertainment, and community spirit. Bring the whole family along for a memorable day together.

The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to

Mullinavat, winners of the JJ Kavanagh Junior F Hurling League Final

Carrickshock narrowly defeated by Mullinavat after extra time in the Junior F Hurling League Final

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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Community & GAA Notes

provide a wide range of supports, services, and activities for individuals and families within the local community. The Centre is a welcoming and inclusive space, offering opportunities for learning, wellbeing, and social connection for people of all ages.

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

This free L.T.I. course will be starting soon and includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable life skills that can support employment and independence.

Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or make contact directly for further details and application information.

The Youth club is back every Wednesday from 5.30 – 6.30pm. For Ages 10yrs – 12yrs The Mill Family centre is offering free courses for September, SNA level 5 and 6, Childcare and computer QQ1 level 4, Early learning and care cert. and advanced cert. QQ1 level 5, LTI level 4 and Office admin. and payroll QQ1 level 5.

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

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

Come along and browse our clothes rail, where you’ll find plenty of fantastic bargains at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking for everyday essentials, stylish outfits, or hidden gems, there’s something for everyone. Shopping from our clothes rail is a great way to save money while supporting a worthwhile cause. By choosing pre-loved clothing, you’re also helping to reduce waste and support sustainable fashion. Bring your friends and family, enjoy a browse, and discover some amazing deals while making a positive difference.

The Centre’s Active Retirement Group meets every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm. This group offers a relaxed and social setting where members can enjoy activities, conversation, and companionship. New members are always welcome, and the group continues to grow as a valued part of the Centre’s weekly programme.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

CEMETERY MASSES The following dates has been set for the annual cemetery masses in the parish. All mass times will be at 7.30pm. Tuesday 28th July, Fennor cemetery and Tuesday 18th August, Boulick cemetery.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK SHRINE Annual Diocesan Pilgrimage to Knock Shrine is on Sunday, August 2nd and will be led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. Music by the Cashel and Emly Diocesan Choir. Please check neighbouring parishes for details of organised buses.

MASS TIMES Parish Pastoral Combination Weekend Mass Times - St. Patrick and Oliver Church Glengoole - Saturday 6pm, Sacred Heart Church Gortnahoe - Sunday 10.30am. Cathedral of the Assumption Thurles - Saturday 7pm, Sunday 11am. St Josephs and St. Brigid, Bohernanave - Sunday 9.30am & 7pm, St. Peter in Chains Church Moycarkey - Saturday 6.30pm, St. James Church Two Mile Borris - Sunday 10.30am and Our Lady, St. Kevins Church Littleton - Sunday 12 noon, St. Marys Church Moyne - Saturday 7.30pm, Sacred Heart Church Templetuohy - Sunday 11am CLERGY COLLECTION Thanks to everyone who supported the Second collection for the Support of the Clergy of the Archdiocese (active and retired) last weekend.

Your generosity as usual is always appreciated.

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

Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO A special July weekend bingo will be held this Saturday evening 11th July at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €4,100 in prize money on offer. All single and double lines €50 payout. The weekend bingo includes a special €500 game and a July special game for €800.

Split the Pot on the day. It will be a great afternoons’ entertainment for all the family.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Helen Morris, who won €138 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange, Mary Willie’s, Gortnahoe Hall and any member of the committee, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for July is in aid of St. Vincent de Paul. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

ANNUAL FAMINE WALK The Annual Famine 1848 Walk will take place in Ballingarry on Saturday, 25 July, marking the 20th anniversary of this important commemorative event. This year’s walk will be led by Minister Kevin Boxer Moran of the Office of Public Works (OPW) and promises to be a meaningful afternoon of history, remembrance and community

spirit.

The event begins at 3.00pm at the National Flag Monument in the village of The Commons, where participants will gather before setting out on the historic walk to Famine Warhouse 1848, the nationally significant OPW heritage site, museum and visitor attraction. Along the route, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on one of the most significant periods in Irish history while learning about the events surrounding the Young Ireland Rebellion of 1848 and the impact of the Great Famine on local communities.

The afternoon will include historical commentary, traditional music and refreshments, creating an enjoyable and informative experience for people of all ages. Whether you have a keen interest in local history or simply wish to support this important annual commemoration, the walk offers a unique opportunity to connect with Ireland’s rich heritage in the very landscape where history unfolded.

Everyone is warmly invited to attend this free community event. Families, history enthusiasts, walkers and visitors alike are encouraged to come along, remember the past and enjoy an afternoon of culture, learning and fellowship in the beautiful surroundings of Ballingarry.

CONAHY HURLING The junior B hurlers will face Bennettsbridge in the opening round of the JJ Kavanagh Junior B championship in Bennettsbridge this Friday evening at 7.00. Best of luck to all involved.

CAMOGIE Well done to the under-16 camogie girls who scored a great win over Carrickshock in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Roinn D semi-final in Jenkinstown. There was little between the sides all through before Conahy won out on a 4-8 to 4-6 score line. They are due to play the winners of Clara and Graignamanagh in the league final, which is yet to be confirmed at the time of writing.

The intermediate girls were also in action on Friday evening last when they travelled to Ballyhale to face Ballyhale Shamrocks in the Summer League Quarter-Final. Again, it was a close game all through, before the home side eventually won out by 5-8 to 4-8.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 1, 3 and 7. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Daniel Holden, Margaret Buggy, Marguerite and Christy O’Loughlin, Geraldine Maher and Thomas Nolan. The promoter prize winners were Larry Bergin, Julie Jackman and Helen Cahill. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

FUTURE STARS SUMMER CAMP Registration is now open for the annual “Future Stars” GAA and Camogie Summer Camp taking place from Tuesday, August 4th to Thursday, August 6th in the Polo Grounds, Jenkinstown. Any child attending primary school in August 2026 is welcome to attend. Each day runs from 10.00 to 1.45 and the cost per child is €40. Check out the ClubZap app or the club’s social media channels for further information.

SUMMER FUN RUN AND WALK Many thanks to everyone in the locality who supported the Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club Summer Fun Run and Walk on Sunday last.

It was a great occasion, with both young and old enjoying some exercise in the fine sunshine.

Everyone was treated to refreshments afterwards in the Clubhouse in the Polo Grounds, Jenkinstown. Thanks to all who donated refreshments and helped to organise the event in any way.

NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat.

Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@gmail.com.

Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory.ie. Liam Barron

(Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford Vigil – Saturday at 6.30p.m: CEMETERY MASS: Mass in Sheepstown Cemetery on Friday 10th.

July at 8.00p.m.

ANNIVERSARY MASS James and Ellen Duggan, Boolyglass; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 11th. July at 8.00p.m.

ROTA (FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tom King. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron. Sunday10.00a.m. Deirdre O’Shea. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m.

Barbara Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Margaret Kenneally. Sunday 10.00a.m.

Lillian Carr. New Rota Available for Hugginstown Church; please collect in Sacristy.

ANNUAL NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS PILGRIMAGE A Day to celebrate the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly will be held on Sunday 26th.

July at Knock Shrine commencing at 2.30p.m. with the anointing of the sick. It’s a day of grace and blessing for the whole family as we honour grandparents and the elderly. All are very welcome. Visit www.catholicgrandparentsassociation.org for more details.

PASTORAL AREA PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK Fr Sean O Connor will lead the Pilgrimage to Knock on Saturday July 11th. Bus will depart Ballyhale at 8.00a.m. and Knocktopher Church at 8.10a.m.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 29th. June 2026 The numbers drawn were: 11; 32; 31; 22. There was one winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. There was no Jackpot winner. €500.00. Winner: Jennifer Dunne, Lawcus. €25.00. Seller of match 3 Ticket: Anne Power, Lawcus. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Kathleen Fennelly, Tommy Murphy, Fred Malzard.

WOMAN’S CONFERENCE “Abide in His Love Women’s Conference”. - The Great Northern Hotel, Bundoran, from 20th. to 22nd. November 2026. Join women from across Ireland for a faith-filled weekend with inspiring speakers including Sarah Swafford; Danielle Noonan; Fr. Mark Wharton; Fr. Barry Braum; Fr. Oisín Martin; The Dominican Sisters of Nashville; Bishop Fintan Gavin. Registration https://abideinhislove.eventbrite.com/ “MAN AND WOMAN, HE CREATED THEM” The Priory Institute, Tallagh one week On-Line Summer School is reflective, informative and interactive and will run from 10th. August. The course includes four recorded presentations and one online zoom discussion and is very flexible as it is delivered entirely online. Find out more and register at prioryinstitute.com CHURCH SAFEGUARDING If you have a child safeguarding concern or wish to raise a matter from the past you may contact: - Diocesan Designated Liaison Person, Mr. Fintan Fanning, 087 100 0232 email dlp@ossory.ie; Tusla Tel. 059 911 5570 or www.ossory.ie/safeguarding. Parish Safeguarding Representatives: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

JUNE COLLECTION: The “June Collection 2026” for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese will be taken up during the months of June/July. Envelopes for this collection are available at the back of the Church. (To donate directly.) Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D).

All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831).

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

40

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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Sport Limited Options

JJ Kavanagh Junior F League Final 2026 Mullinavat 1-23; Carrickshock 2-13 (after extra time) Mullinavat won a first Junior Hurling League title in sixteen years with a hardearned final victory over Southern neighbours Carrickshock at Hugginstown.

Back in 2010 it was in the “B” grade, this time Roinn “F” but just as competitive.

This contest, which went to extra time, had everything, with no quarters asked or given. Both sides finished short players, each had a straight red card and to make matters worse for the home side, they also lost another player to a double yellow card offence.

Carrickshock led 2-5 to 0-8 at halftime, thanks to two goals in the opening eleven minutes, the first from Daniel Blanchfield after a delivery into the Mullinavat goal area, and the other by John Dalton after clever work from Luke Gaule. Stephen Law was scorer in chief for “Vegas” in the first half with 0-6, five of which were frees.

Carrickshock added to their lead in the opening two minutes of the new half with points from John Dalton (free) and Darragh Dwyer.

Points from Luke Byrne Doyle and a Stephen Law free got Mullinavat back to three points (0-10 to 2-7).

A Patrick Mulcahy point and a distance free from John Dalton restored the Carrickshock five-point lead by the 40th minute. Mullinavat points from a Stephen Law free and a Stephen O’Shea score left just three between them midway through the half. It was at this stage that tempers started to raise, and referee Paul Cahill flashed those cards mentioned earlier.

When Darragh Dwyer

Run out of space

Left: John Power, Junior Board P.R.O. presenting the JJ Kavanagh Junior F trophy to Mullinavat Captain Declan Duggan.

pointed a free to put the ‘Shocks 2-10 to 0-12 clear with ten minutes to go, they looked like they might just hang on.

Mullinavat had a numerical

advantage however, and a series of scores from Stephen Law and a 64th minute point from Billy Delahunty took us to extra time.

There was a farcical start to the extra time with Carrickshock starting with fourteen

Mullinavat captain Declan Duggan and Carrickshock captain Seamus Millea with referee Paul Cahill

men rather than thirteen, and a goal scored at once after the restart had to be disallowed for that reason. At the end of the first extra time period Mullinavat led by four points, 0-21 to 2-11.

Carrickshock kept battling in the second period, tried desperately for a third goal but the Vegas boys held firm, and it was they who raised a green flag through Daragh Tynan in the games final minute.

This was a Southern derby enjoyed by the large crowd present and both sides should also be real contenders in the 2026 Junior F championship which starts shortly.

SCORERS MULLINAVAT: Stephen Law (0-12, 0-8 frees, 0-1 “65”), Darragh Tynan 1-0, Jack Byrne Doyle (0-3), Billy Delahunty (0-3), Luke Byrne Doyle (0-2), Cormac McEvoy (0-2, 0-1 frees), Stephen O’Shea (0-1). CARRICKSHOCK: John Dalton (1-3, 0-3 frees), Daniel Blanchfield

Under the dropping ball

(1-1), Patrick Mulcahy (0-4, 0-2 frees), Darragh Dwyer (0-2, 0-1 frees), Luke Gaule, Andrew Power, John Butler (0-1 each).

TEAMS MULLINAVAT: Declan Duggan (C), Tommy Lanigan, Jamie Dempsey, Louis Madi-

Cleared away

gan, Daniel Walsh, Stephen O'Shea, Jake Morrissey (VC), James Dalton, Jack Whelton, Luke Byrne Doyle, Stephen Law, Killian Dungan, Jack Power, Pat Mulhearn, John Reade. Substitutes: Used: Billy Delahunty for Jack Whelton, Michael Johnston for Jamie Walshe, Jack Byrne Doyle, Cormac McEvoy, Jamie Dungan for Jack Byrne Doyle (et), Jamie Walshe for Stephen Law (et), Darragh Tynan for Pat Mulhearne (et). Rest of Panel: Conor Frisby, Ciarán Holden, Ben Cantwell, Tadhg Knox, Mossy Jones, Kevin Roche, Gavin Morrissey, George Culleton, Darragh Tynan, Richie Cunningham (Injured).

CARRICKSHOCK: Stephen Farrell, Seamus Millea (C), Kieran Holden, Andrew Fitzpatrick, James O'Shea, Chris Price, William Hoyne John Dalton, Shane Power, Dan Blanchfield, Luke Gaule, Andrew Power, Darragh Dwyer, Patrick Mulcahy, Pauric Barron.

Substitutes Used: Chris Grace, John Butler, David Millea, Conor Duggan. Rest of Panel: Ger Murphy, Liam Walsh, John Tennyson, Pauric Barron, James Gaule, Robbie Power, Michael Hoyne, Darragh Doyle, Chris Grace, Owen Grace, John Butler, Richard Frisby, Stephen Carr, John Murphy, Joe Sinnott, Michael Kenneally, Richard Kenneally.

Referee: Paul Cahill (Dunnamaggin).

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

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Hurling matters

Sport

Master and apprentice Henry can use Galway hurt to help Cats

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

And so the optimism begins. Henry Shefflin has been appointed as Manager of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Team. During an online meeting of the County Board on Monday evening, the Shamrocks Ballyhale genius was ratified for the much sought after role, following the departure of Emeralds clubman Derek Lyng in early June. Shortly after the meeting concluded, a statement was released confirming the appointment: “Kilkenny GAA is pleased to announce that Henry Shefflin has been appointed Manager of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Team following ratification by the Kilkenny County Board at an online meeting this evening”.

“Henry brings a wealth of experience, leadership and success to the role and is well placed to lead the next chapter of Kilkenny senior hurling.

The appointment follows a comprehensive recruitment process that attracted a strong field of candidates. Kilkenny GAA wishes to sincerely thank all of those who expressed an interest in the position and participated in the interview process.

The quality of candidates was exceptionally high, and the County Board greatly appreciated the professionalism, preparation and commitment shown throughout.

The genuine desire of every candidate to do their best for Kilkenny GAA and to contribute to the future success of Kilkenny hurling was evident at every stage of the process”.

Chairperson of Kilkenny GAA, PJ Kenny, said: “On behalf of Kilkenny GAA, I am delighted to welcome Henry Shefflin as our Senior Hurling Manager. Henry has an outstanding record of achievement and leadership, and we are confident he will bring tremendous experience, ambition and professionalism to the role.

“I would also like to acknowledge and thank every candidate who put themselves forward. The calibre of applicants reflected the esteem in which Kilkenny hurling is held, and we were struck throughout the process by the commitment each candidate demonstrated to serving Kilkenny GAA. We wish Henry every success as he takes up this important role.”

Kilkenny GAA looks forward to working with Henry and his management team as preparations begin for the 2027 season.

The process of appointing the Kilkenny U-20 Hurling Manager will now begin.

Kilkenny GAA will not be issuing any further statement.

The departure of Derek Lyng didn’t surprise many and came on the back of a very disappointing league and championship campaign for the Cats, which culminated in the Noresiders failing to reach the All-Ireland series for the first time

Henry at the helm as Cats seek to roar again!

Shefflin succeeds Lyng as Kilkenny boss

in many years. Two huge defeats at the hands of Galway went a long way to the prospect and murmurings of a new leader being required at the helm. As usual, there were many names touted and discussed, with Henry Shefflin repeatedly mentioned throughout the country.

Clubs were asked to submit their recommendations and as a result of that process, it is widely believed that the names of five well-respected coaches were put forward for the hotseat following Lyng’s four-year reign. A committee consisting of members of the County Board, alongside some external voices including ex-Dublin

boss Pat Gilroy dissected the merits of Henry, Brian Dowling, Tom Mullally, Mark Dowling and Noel Doherty, with the legendary Shefflin getting the nod.

As a player, Shefflin was at the very top of his trade, and his success is up there with the best of the hurling greats. During those golden days with the county, he won TEN All-Ireland's, three hurler of the year awards and ELEVEN All-Stars.

Equally at club level, Henry was part of a silver-winning Ballyhale machine, as both player and Shamrocks KING! Henry then more recently as manager. The Shefflin

classy forward won three All-Ireland club titles on the field and backed that up with two further titles as manager. He also had a spell with Thomastown in the intermediate ranks. Then came the surprise appointment, being appointed Galway manager where the King spent 3 seasons attempting to revive the fortunes of the Tribesmen.

Shefflin’s tenure out west wouldn’t have gone as he hoped, but it gave the 47-year-old an insight into intercounty management.

The opportunity to revive the fortunes of his own county will be forensically examined along this journey, and the make-up of his backroom team will be key.

Richie O’Neill is a trusted coach that has worked with Henry in the past, while O’Loughlin’s Brian Hogan was with Shefflin for the U20s campaign recently. Former goalkeeping great, David Herity who assisted in Henry’s second spell with Shamrocks Ballyhale, could be a valuable addition also.

Can Henry end the 11-year wait for Liam? Who knows, the number may rise, but it’s safe to say that Shefflin will give everything to the black and amber cause while he’s the Top Cat. Ádh mór Henry, Kilkenny is behind you.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Camogie - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Glen Dimplex Senior Camogie Championship Kilkenny 2-19 Waterford 1-19 (AET) Croke Park, Dublin It may have taken extra time, but Kilkenny are back in the Glen Dimplex Senior Camogie Championship semifinals having got the better of a talented Waterford side in Croke Park last Saturday afternoon. Played in front of a disappointing crowd, Jimmy Meagher’s outfit were three points ahead when the long whistle sounded at the end of extra time, thanks to a brace of majors from substitute Katie Nolan. Having won all their group games enroute to the last eight clash, this was certainly a step up in quality of opponent and the Noresiders had to work hard to secure a last four berth for the first time since 2022.

The game was a little scrappy early on as both sides appeared nervous, knowing stakes were high for the winner. Aoife Prendergast, who would top score for the Stripeywomen once again, was off target with her first placed ball effort, but would settle into her groove soon after. The opening score of the encounter came on 4 minutes, courtesy of Modeligo’s Mairead O’Brien who turned Niamh Deely before splitting the posts. Michael Boland’s charges would register the next score also, when their taliswoman, Beth Carton notched the first of her 9-point haul. The Deise were looking hungry and buzzing round all areas of the Croke Park pitch, getting to the loose ball, that little bit quicker.

Kilkenny got the scoreboard moving in the 11th minute, O’Loughlin’s Laura Murphy finding Aoife Prendergast with a lovely pass and the Dicksboro player applied the finish. Murphy, so vital to everything this team does, then forced a turnover before powering forward and striking over a lovely point. A brace of placed ball efforts from Prendergast following fouls on Asha McHardy and the lively Laura Murphy saw the ladies in black and amber go two clear at the midway point of the opening period.

Waterford reduced the arrears to the bare minimum when Cappoquin’s Orla Hickey rifled over from distance.

Another of the impressive Dicksboro contingent, Asha McHardy then pointed having been well picked out by O’Loughlin’s Laura Greene, who like fellow Laura, Murphy, had started the quarter final brightly.

Waterford then got more of a foothold in the game as their strong direct running caused problems for the Kilkenny defence. Beth Carton converted three placed balls on the bounce as referee Joe Mullins provided the shooting opportunities for the De La Salle clubwoman, with a couple of harsh calls, especially

Katie at the double as Deise downed in Croker!

Sarah Barcoe hit 3 lovely scores

Tribeswomen await Meagher’s ladies in semifinal Jimmy’s still winning matches

Semi bound - Kilkenny Camogs

on two members of the Noresiders full back line, Ava Brett and the experienced Steffi Fitzgerald, both penalised by the Clare whistler as the Deise edged ahead. A placed ball from Aoife Prendergast levelled

matters once more, but a fine score from Annie Fitzgerald after she had won her battle with Michelle Teehan edged the opposition ahead. Then came a big moment in the game, and one that would Waterford will

reflect on during the off season.

Midfielder Abby Flynn burst forward and tried, unsuccessfully to pick out a teammate in front of goal, however referee Mullins blew the whistle and signaled penalty to The

Deise for captain Caoimhe Dowling’s challenge on the De La Salle player after she had given the pass.

Beth Carton stepped forward but unfortunately for her and her team, she pulled her shot wide, relief for

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Camogie - Review POTM Laura Murphy

Tiff was in top form

Kilkenny.

Laura Greene then did well to shake off the attention of Vikki Falconer before firing over. Michael Boland’s side responded well to the penalty miss, hitting the last two scores of the first half, thanks to efforts from Eimear O’Neill and Lorraine Bray, to lead by two at the short whistle.

The Kilkenny management team must have had a positive impact during the interval as the Stripeywomen came out of the

blocks quickly when play resumed. Another burst forward from Laura Murphy saw the O’Loughlin’s woman halted illegally and Aoife Prendergast converted the free awarded. The ladies in black and amber built on this with scores from Thomastown’s Sarah Barcoe and the impressive Laura Murphy, with contributions from Ava Brett and Asha McHardy. Waterford hit back with another brace of Beth

Carton placed balls to keep their noises in front. The first change for Kilkenny then came with St Martin’s Katie Nolan replacing Clara’s Emma Shortall on 44 minutes. The Noresiders then went two points clear thanks to efforts from the pacey Sarah Barcoe, player of the match, Laura Murphy and a free from Aoife Prendergast.

Deise midfielder Orla Hickey then split Aoife Norris’s posts following good pressure on Kilkenny forcing the turnover. St Brigid’s Claire Doheny then entered the fray in place of Asha McHardy and helped create a third point of the game for Sarah Barcoe. One of Waterford’s main threats on the day in the absence of the suspended Niamh Rockett was Annie Fitzgerald and the Gailltir woman struck over a tidy score with about six minutes of normal time remaining in Drumcondra. Brickey Rangers player Eimear O’Neill registered her second point of the afternoon, but sub Claire Doheny made an impact and got on the scoresheet to nudge the black and amber clad ladies ahead as the last eight clash approached the 60th minute.

Kilkenny netminder Aoife Norris was called into action and batted a shot away to keep her side in the lead, but Clare whistler Mullins was about to give The Deise the chance to level, once again from the placed ball, a chance that Beth Carton didn’t pass up on. Indeed, Waterford could have nicked it deep into injury time, but Lorraine Bray was off target with her effort just ahead of the fulltime whistle. Extra time pending to separate the sides.

The dangerous Annie Fitzgerald got the scoreboard moving in extra time, right from the throw in, beating Angela Carroll before notching her 3rd of the day. Then came the games first green flag raiser. Steffi Fitzgerald put her marker under pressure, emerged with the sliotar and raced towards goal. The Young Ireland’s player struck her shot well, but Waterford keeper Brianna O’Regan blocked the effort with her hurl, but fortunately for Kilkenny, Katie Nolan was on hand to bat the ball beyond the helpless De La Salle netminder.

The ladies in stripes bult on

this with another placed ball effort from Aoife Prendergast. Michael Boland’s team dug in and struck the games next two scores, a Beth Carton free and a nice point from wing back Rachael Walsh. The first period of extra time came to a close, marked by a ‘45 from the deadly Aoife Prendergast.

When play resumed, Waterford nearly created a goal chance, but they did register a point, again from Carton. Then came the Noresiders second major of the day. Again, the creator was the experienced Steffi Fitzgerald as she took possession around the ‘45. Steffi powered towards goal, drawing the last defender before popping a pass to Katie Nolan. The former All-Star composed herself before batting the ball past the advancing Brianna O’Regan to give Jimmy Meagher’s side a 5-point lead with the same number of minutes remaining. The Deise didn’t lie down and raised a green flag of their own courtesy of sub Maggie Gostl. Annie Fitzgerald floated a free into the danger zone and as the ball dropped, De La Salle’s Gostl struck the sliotar to the Kilkenny net to leave two points between the sides. There would only be one further score, and fittingly it came from the most impressive performer on the day, O’Loughlin’s Laura Murphy. A last four berth secured and a meeting with old foes Galway. Final score: Kilkenny 2-19, Waterford 1-19.

Scorers for Kilkenny: A Prendergast (0-9, 0-7 frees, 0-1 45), K Nolan (20), L Murphy (0-4), S Barcoe (0-3), L Greene, A McHardy and C Doheny (0-1 each).

Scorers for Waterford: B Carton (0-9, 0-8 frees), M Gostl (1-0), A Fitzgerald (0-3), O Hickey and E O’Neill (0-2 each), M O’Brien, L Bray and R Walsh (0-1 each).

KILKENNY: A Norris; A Brett, T Fitzgerald, C Dowling (Capt); A Carroll, N Deely, M Teehan; L Greene, L Murphy; A Prendergast, C Keher Murtagh, A McHardy; E Shortall, S Fitzgerald, S Barcoe.

Subs: K Nolan for E Shortall (44), C Doheny for A McHardy (53), R Dowling for S Barcoe (61-63 temp), R Phelan for C Keher Murtagh (60+8), R Dowling for S Barcoe (70+4).

WATERFORD: B O’Regan; V Falconer, L Forrest, A McNulty; C Carroll, K Corbett Barry, R Walsh; O Hickey, E O’Neill; L Bray (Capt), B Carton, B Bowdren; A Fitzgerald, L Bray, M O’Brien.

Subs: A O’Sullivan for M O’Brien (45), R Kirwan for B Bowdren (51), M Gostl for L Forrest (59), S Lacey for E O’Neill (70+4).

Referee: Joe Mullins (Clare)

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Inês Gomes seek Planning Permission for the conversion of existing garden room building measuring 19.2 sq. m. to a commercial gym for personal training of 1-2 people maximum at a time with WC facilities and ancillary works at the rear of my property at 2 An Cluain, Breagagh Valley, Castle Oaks, Co. Kilkenny. R95Y74C 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.

Further Information/Revised Plans.

Planning permission is sought by S. Holden & Brothers Ltd. t/a Holden Brothers under Planning Register Reference No 2560733 for Retention of: office unit with access ramp (17.3sqm), vehicular entrance from public road (L2632-37) with associated entrance gate and piers, front boundary timber post and wire fencing; connection to existing wastewater treatment system, drainage; and all associated and ancillary works at Dunbell Big, Ballyreddin, Co. Kilkenny.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans in relation to the application has been furnished to the planning authority; and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9.00am to 1.00pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm. The Significant Further Information includes permission for retention of change of use from agricultural workshop/shed to storage shed for commercial use. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information/ Revised Plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to, or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Áine Ryan Consulting, 29 Rath Ullórd, Bonnettsrath Road, Kilkenny

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Anthony Kearney and Niamh O’Gorman intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for a single storey dwelling, vehicular entrance, borewell, detached garage, foul treatment tank & percolation area and all associated site works at Carrigatna, Kilmaganny, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Nextgen Design & Build Ltd. www.ngdb.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission sought for alteration to existing car park layout and ancillary related works at Millennium Court, Bennettsbridge. Applicant: Tullaherin Bennettsbridge Voluntary Housing Association.

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.

Architects: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Mark Doyle and Sarah Cody for full planning permission to construct a 2 storey dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Clonmore, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought for selected environmental and facilities upgrades to the Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre and immediate environs to comprise the following: 1. Signage to southern boundary, 2. Conservation remedial works to the lime kiln, 3. Boundary treatment and selected indigenous planting to southern quarter (open vista area), 4. Installation of way finding signage and information boards within the environs, 5. Remove the platform and regularise seating at row 6 at the north end of the Amphitheatre, 6. Replacement performers changing / green room structure to include holding tank, 7. Provision of a pergola framed walkway from Stage to Green Room, with all ancillary and associated works all located at Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre and environs, Ballykeefe Hill, Kilmanagh The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Applicant: Kilmanagh Ballycallan Killaloe Community Enterprise Group CLG

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL NOTICE OF SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS. We, City Cinemas Limited, in relation to a Notice of Further Information Request received from the Planning Authority on our planning application, planning reference 25/60507 for Planning Permission for Development at the Existing IMC Cinema Complex at Old Mart Street and Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny.

The development will consist of the following: 1. Construction and provision of a part two-storey and part single-storey fast food restaurant with ‘drive thru’ facility. 2. Illuminated external restaurant signage. 3. Erection of an entrance height restrictor with signage. 4. 1 no. illuminated free standing menu display sign. 5. 2 no. ordering kiosks. 6. Driveway with access point off the existing private car park. 7. 2 no. parking bays. 8. Outdoor seating area. 9. Construction and provision a single storey retail unit. 10. Illuminated external retail unit signage. 11. Alterations to the existing carpark layout and all associated site works.

We, hereby give notice that Significant Further Information/Revised Plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information or Revised Plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Castlewarren Community Co. Ltd, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a new community centre consisting of meeting rooms, café, multi-purpose hall, toilets & other ancillary accommodation, site entrance with car parking, secondary wastewater treatment system with raised soil polishing filter, soakpits and all associated site works at Castlewarren, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 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) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought on behalf of James Sweeney at Ballycuddithy, Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny. The development consists of the refurbishment of, internal modifications to, and a single-storey extension to the side and rear of, the existing single-storey derelict dwelling, a garage, a septic tank and percolation area, the demolition of an existing outhouse and associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during Office hours i.e. 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Fintan Dunne Architect.

TO PUBLISH A PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street | Telephone: 056 777 1463 / 086 239 5370 | Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

PAULINE KENNEDY (NEE O’GORMAN) 23RD ANNIVERSARY

ANDY GEOGHEGAN 32ND ANNIVERSARY

LINDA READE BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

In loving memory of Pauline, late of 12 Hazel Grove, Kilkenny who passed away on July 10th 2002

In loving memory of Andy, late of 5, Fr. Delahunty Terrace, Kilkenny whose anniversary occurs on 16th July 2026.

Birthday Remembrance of Linda Reade whose birthday occurs on 12th July.

Our lives go on without you But nothing is the same We have to hide our heartache When someone speaks your name

We’ll hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again

No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you

So rest in peace dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won

Loved and remembered your loving husband Colm, daughter Caroline, sons John Paul and Declan, grandchildren, son-in-law and daughter-in-law

From your loving family

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.R.

This year you would have been 43 If you had been left to us.

Instead you are up in heaven, A place we cannot see And even though we cannot kiss your face You have inside these hearts of ours, A very special place We know that you were special And God he knew it too So he chose you for an angel And broke our hearts in two So find the softest pillow Lord To lay her head upon Place a kiss upon her cheek And tell her who its from Happy Birthday in Heaven Loved and missed so much Mam, Dad, Michelle, Brian, nieces and nephews.

A Prayer to the Blessed Virgin (never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request. (Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power.

O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. S.F.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.F.

St. Anthony Prayer

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.R.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. E.M.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026

Classifieds

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10th July 2026