Kilkenny Observer 10th December 2021

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 10 December 2021

What do you know?

Our quiz tests your general knowledge  See page 4

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Covid silver lining Pandemic makes us much kinder people  See page 14

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

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EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer Our pandemic woes NEW research by mental health charity Aware on the population’s response to the Covid19 pandemic has revealed a widespread negative view of ourselves, the world, and other people during the peak of the 2021 lockdown.

However, it also highlights that positive thoughts and emotions, such as empathy, compassion and gratitude, were protective of mental health.

The study led by Aware board member Dr Keith Gaynor, Assistant Professor and Senior Clinical Psychologist at UCD, shows that in a time of global threat, negative feelings and beliefs may be “realistic, appropriate and normal”.

The research was carried out between December 2020 and February 2021, during one of the longest periods of lockdown in the country. The

findings highlight the importance of developing positive mental wellbeing during the pandemic.

Dr Gaynor, said: “What our research found was that negative thoughts were pretty universal. Having negative thoughts during a pandemic is a pretty normal, natural reaction. This is a really negative event and there’s something really important about normalising feeling nega-

tive about a lockdown or other negative events that we’re experiencing.”

Meanwhile, scientists say they have identified a “stealth” version of Omicron that cannot be distinguished from other variants using the PCR tests.

The stealth variant has many mutations in common with standard Omicron, but it lacks a particular genetic change that allows lab-based

PCR tests to be used as a rough and ready means of flagging up probable cases.

The variant is still detected by all the usual tests, and can be identified as the Omicron variant through genomic testing, but probable cases are not flagged up by routine PCR tests that give quicker results.

See also Pages 14 and 22

Santa baby!... Sisters Olivia and Isabel Phillips getting into the spirit for the Aware Christmas 5K takes place the weekend of Friday, December 10. And everyone is invited to dress up in their favourite Santa hat or Christmas jumper!

Full story, Page 10

Clean-up after Storm Barra A major clean-up after Storm Barra is under way in parts of the country.

Nearly 40,000 premises lost power on the night, mostly in Wicklow, Wexford. Cork, Kerry, and Donegal, while boil-water notices were in place for several areas.

Winds at 156kmh caused flooding and downed trees.

Schools, creches and colleges in 12 counties were closed for two days.

Wind farms sees council dig in

Keep killer of mom and two girls in prison: plea THE brother of a woman murdered in Kilkenny along with her two children has told how he’s now forced to once again write to a parole board to keep their killer behind bars.

Sharon Whelan, 30, and her EVERY FRIDAY

girls Zarah, seven, and Nadia, two, were murdered by postman Brian Hennessy at their home in Windgap, Co Kilkenny on Christmas Day 2008.

And now it’s emerged that Hennessy, who raped and

The Kilkenny

Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

strangled Sharon before killing her children in a horrific fire, is due for a parole hearing for a second time since he was jailed for murder in 2009.

Speaking exclusively to The Star’s new crime podcast

Fancy working four-day week?

‘Shattered Lives,’ Sharon’s brother John told how he’s got a letter ready to go to the Parole Board — pleading for Hennessy to be kept in prison.

FLEXIBLE hours and remote working have arrived, and the four-day workweek will be here soon. Who will be the first large-scale employer to offer a four-day workweek in Ireland? We don’t know, but one thing is for sure, employees will vote with their feet.

Guest columnist John Donoghue, CEO of ifac, asks if YOU would you like a long weekend every week?

Full story, Page 6

Comment, Page 16

Kilkenny councillors are refusing to change their stance on the County Development Plan, after a Ministerial Directive was issued to members saying that the plan went against Government policy by making it harder to build wind farms in certain parts of the county.

The council representatives say they are vowing to stick to their guns.

INSIDE

Our Quiz...............................P4 Paul Hopkins......................P8 Marianne Heron.............P12 Health & Science ............P18 Travel & Leisure .............P19 Food & Drink ...................P46 TV & Streaming .............P47 Sport ..............................P50-55

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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Ok, let’s see how smart you are!

SO, it’s our Christmas Quiz this week. There will be a prize of €50 One For All Card to be won for the first correct answer drawn.

The winner will be drawn in time to spend your prize at Christmas.

The questions are eclectic, ranging from multiple choice, true or false and a riddle or two to make it interesting.

Get your answers in via post or email by Tuesday, December 21 and the draw will take place on Thursday, December 23 and the winner will be announced in the paper of January 7, 2022.

1. Tesla entrepreneur Elon Musk said the brain of which animal had been implanted with a computer chip, as part of his Neuralink venture?

5. Which city is Die Hard set in?

13. What does inflation mean? a. Less value of money due to sustained increase in prices b. Prices decrease c. More value of money due to sustained decrease in prices

6.What is traditionally hidden inside a Christmas pudding? a. Money. b. A rag c. A ring

14. You reduce the risk of investing in the stock market by buying a wide range of stocks? a. True b. False.

7. Who served up figgy pudding in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol? a. Mrs Cratchett. b. The Ghost of Christmas future. c. Tiny Tim.

2. Consumers trying to take advantage of Christmas deals temporarily crashed a company’s website in November – whose was it?

8. In what classic novel does the protagonist set sail for a sea voyage on a cold Christmas day

3. Drinks giant Diageo recalled its alcohol-free Guinness 0.0 just two weeks after launch in the UK, because:

a. The amount of money you can spend after you’ve paid your mortgage payments b. The amount of money you don’t need to save at the end of the month c. The amount of money you can spend after all fixed taxes have been paid

4. In which city does the annual Christmas busk including the likes of Bono and Glen Hansard take place?

a. Gertude the pig. b. Thomas the bear c. Billy the Sheep.

a. Naked Wines. b. Alibaba c. Amazon

12. What is disposable income?

a. There was evidence of contamination and the possible presence of mould. b. Alcohol was present c. Problems with ring pull

a. Moby Dick b. Treasure Island c. Gone With The wind.

9. How many gifts were given in The Twelve Days of Christmas song? a. 364 b. 202 c. 187

10. Name of the fictional Christmas song that makes Hugh Grant rich from all the royalties in About A Boy? a. Rudolf Where Are You? b. Santa’s Super Sleigh c. The Night The Elf Danced.

11. What is Phishing? a. When scammers try to obtain sensitive information from you. b. When scammers hack your computer. c. When you illegally download something, like a movie.

15. Your friend tells you to invest in gold. What should you do first? a. Research information b. Make an investment plan for five years c. Shop for gold jewelry 16. What are the currencies of the following countries: (a)China, (b) Brazil, (c)Isreal, (d)Turkey, and (e) South Korea?

17. Who said: “It costs a lot of money to look this cheap.”?

18. In which country was paper money first used as a currency?

19.Which stock market has the Hang Seng Index?

20. In the Christmas story of the Three Wise Men, what are the gifts they gave to baby Jesus?

21. In which European country was the original St. Nicholas born?

22. What is the biggest selling Christmas single of all time?

23. According to 1946’s Christmas classic It’s Wonderful Life, what happens every time a bell rings?

24. A Christmas anagram - knife scanner?

25. In which classic Christmas film does Bill Murray play TV executive Frank Cross?

26. And finally a riddle or two – one for Mammy and Daddy: A chicken was given €7, an ant was given €21, a spider was given €28. How much money was the dog given?

And one for the children: I drop from the sky far more beautiful than rain. There are no two pieces that’ll ever look the same. What am I? Best of festive luck to everyone.

John Ellis

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

News

No Christmas parole for killer of mum and girls, pleads brother THE brother of a woman murdered in Kilkenny along with her two children has told how he’s now forced to once again write to a parole board to keep their killer behind bars.

Sharon Whelan, 30, and her girls Zarah, seven, and Nadia, two, were murdered by postman Brian Hennessy at their home in Windgap, Co Kilkenny on Christmas Day 2008.

And now it’s emerged that Hennessy, who raped and strangled Sharon before killing her children in a horrific fire, is due for a parole hearing for a second time since he was jailed for murder in 2009.

Speaking exclusively to The Star’s new crime podcast ‘Shattered Lives,’ Sharon’s brother John told how he’s got a letter ready to go to the Parole Board — pleading for Hennessy to be kept in prison.

“I have it (the letter) ready because the prison service has told us his parole is going to be up.

“It’s strange that we’re put into that position of having to think about it, and having to plea with a parole board who are tasked with this, which does not have a representative from any victim’s organisations or victims charities or campaign groups,” he said.

John told the podcast, which is available from on Spotify, Apple and Google, that someone like Hennessy — who has never showed any remorse — should never be released.

And he feels the State is letting families like his down by repeatedly asking them to write down their reasons as to why their loved one’s killer should stay in prison.

“I would argue someone like Brian Hennessy, who was able to take three lives, come home and fall asleep on the couch, have Christmas dinner with his family and then

Zara Whelan, seven, (left) and Nadia Whelan, two and a half, during a visit to meet Santa Claus. (Image: Family handout/PA Wire)

go and have Christmas dinner with his girlfriend’s family and act like nothing happened. If my family has been murdered in England, Brian Hennessy would be under a whole life tariff right now.

“Then we would be in a position to try and move on with our lives,” he said.

“Because what happens when you have parole, and remember it’s every 12 years but then it can be every year or two after that.

“So the State is compliant in retraumatising families because we are being dragged back to the very start again,” he said.

In the interview, the murdered woman’s brother tells of waking up on Christmas morning and hearing the horrific news of his sister’s death.

“It was Christmas morning and our boys, who were 10 and three at the time, were obviously excited.

“They were up early and down they went and we opened up the presents and all that and we had the cups of tea and the hot chocolate..

“I nipped upstairs just to have a shower and as I was getting dressed I could hear Sandra downstairs. There was a commotion kind of going on downstairs. She called me to come down, Mam was on the phone and she was pretty upset and hysterical,” he said.

“All I could make out was Mam saying Sharon’s house was on fire. There’s been a fire.”

Three local men risked their lives to go into the house while it was on fire and they brought the three bodies out.

That incredible act of bravery by three local men meant that Gardai were able to collect vital DNA evidence which ultimately convicted local postman Brian Hennessy for the murders.

It later emerged during the court case that Hennessy, who did not know Sharon personally, raped the mother-of-two in the early hours of Christmas morning, and then waited nearly five hours before deciding to set fire to her home, killing her two little girls.

School campus for Wetlands KILKENNY and Carlow Educational Training Board (KCETB) have applied for planning permission to construct a new 12,692.7m2 school campus containing two postprimary schools at Poulgour, Wetlands, Kilkenny.

The first school will be comprised of two two-storey blocks including general classrooms, specialist rooms, S.E.N.S. area, circulation areas, offices, plant room, dining hall and associated kitchen and storage areas.

The second school will be comprised of one two-storey block including general classrooms, specialist rooms, circulation areas, offices, plant room, dining hall and associated kitchen and storage areas.

A sports hall, including two fitness suites and associated changing and storage areas are also included in the plans, alongside an ESB Substation, new vehicular access, three new pedestrian entrances to the site (serving Poulgour

Road and Western Environs Link Road), an on-site set down area and staff car parking.

Hard play and landscaped social areas, sports facilities in a fenced area around the school campus, storm sewer connection works, watermain connection works and ancillary and site services complete the plans.

Kilkenny County Council are due to make a decision on the project in late January, 2022.

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News Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Christmas toys, and the one Santa never brought me MECCANO, the must-have toy for every self-respecting boy in the Christmases of my youth, celebrates its 120th birthday this year and is still one of the biggest selling toys at this time of year. Also a staple in Santa’s sack is Lego, voted a year back by a Channel 4 survey as the ‘Greatest Toy of All Time,’ and is, as I write, flying off the shelves via online orders.

I watched the Late, Late Toy Show the other week. I had not done so since way back when my own three children were young and Uncle Gaybo was at the helm of the annual event which has gone from strength to strength since it first aired back, believe it or not, in 1975. Since the RTE Player came about, the show has garnered a global audience. Here at home more than a million people tuned in to watch Ryan Tubridy last week. The show exceeded expectations, despite the

lack of a live audience and other Covid-19 imposed curtailments. Well done young Ryan and all involved in making for a memorable night. Just what we all need, given the year we are having.

Meanwhile, half of that Channel 4 poll’s Top 10 were high-tech console games but Lego was joined at the top of the tree by fellow oldies Monopoly (1934), Scrabble (1948), and Scalextric (1958).

For very young children, old Teddy bear has been arriving in many homes at Christmas since 1903. The Teddy Bear was named after the hunting and shooting US President Theodore Roosevelt. The first fluffy creation was marketed as Teddy’s Bear after creator Morris Michtom sent one to the president and got permission to use his name.

By 1906 it was a huge hit as a child’s toy and, oddly, a women’s fashion accessory (don’t ask!). In 1932 Irish-

man Jimmy Kennedy — he of Red Sails In The Sunset fame, allegedly written abour Portrush in Co. Armagh — added the familiar lyrics to the 1907 hit Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

For young girls, Barbie has been the preferred Christmas visitor since 1959. Watching her daughter Barbie giving her dolls adult roles, American Ruth Handler saw a gap in the market for a doll in adult form. She put the idea to her husband, who’d founded the toy-making giant Mattel, but he dismissed it as a folly.

Ruth persevered, and the controversy over the first Barbie’s pneumatic bust and sexy swim-suit propelled it to 350,000 sales in its first year.

More than 1.2 billion have sold since.

Sometimes, it seems like it was only yesterday but it was the Christmas of my

ninth year and I so wanted to emulate Bruce McLaren in his Grand Prix winning Cooper Climax that I desperately wanted Scalextric from Santa Claus.

I was wavering between believing in the man in red and dismissing it as hokumpokum, particularly having burrowed my way the previous year into the back of the wardrobe in my parents’ bedroom, but decided it was to my advantage to carry on ‘believing’ and write my letter to Santa.

My father muttered something about Scalextric being very expensive and that maybe Santa would not be able to afford it as he had so many children to visit and “things like that don’t come cheap”.

But, believer or not, I had every faith Santa or whoever would deliver and I could give McLaren a run for his money.

Scalextric had been on the go about six years by then: a train set on speed, life in the fast lane, leaving my Dinky cars in the shade. I just had to have it and hoped against hope that I had been mistaken in my bout of scepticism

‘Barbie’s pneumatic bust and sexy swim-suit . .

”

when burrowing through my parents’ wardrobe.

Well, Christmas morning 5am arrived and I awoke starry-eyed with anticipation of my stocking weighing heavy on the bottom of my bed.

I never got my Scalextric that Christmas of my ninth year.. I do not remember now what I got instead, only the disappointment that my future as a McLaren was truly dashed.

It was probably too expensive for Santa, my father said.

Johnny down the road is getting one, was all I replied.

But I swore there and then, young as I was, that if I ever had children I would make sure that whatever they asked for from Santa they would get.

Funny though, down the years the two boys never asked for Scalextric, despite its enduring popularity.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

News

New library literacy plan as accessible as A, B, C KILKENNY County Council Library Service has launched a new literacy programme, entitled OWL (Oral Words Language). This has been developed in response to literacy needs that emerged following consultation with a range of organisations including our Right to Read Literacy Network in Kilkenny.

The programme focuses on

developing the oral language skills of 0-3 year olds, by helping support parents, childcare practitioners and teachers to ensure a good oral language base from an early age, and thus reduce potential literacy problems in the future.

These short online workshops with Speech and Language Therapist Melissa Lanigan, Behavioural Specialist and

Trainee Educational Psychologist Simone Coleman, and Storyteller Neil Griffiths include topics such as boosting language skills at home, short attention span and building communication skills, play to develop communication, Bilingualism, Inspiring children to enjoy reading and storytelling techniques.

Workshops run on the li-

brary’s website, Facebook page and the council’s YouTube channel at 9pm on Tuesday and Wednesday nights throughout December, and Tuesday nights in January.

In addition to these workshops, quick tips from our professionals will be posted at 9pm on social media. Neil Griffith’s story time for children will be on each Saturday morning in

December at 11.30am.

“We are delighted to roll out this exciting oral language programme, which has been designed to appeal to busy parents and childcare workers with short workshops and practical tips and tricks,” said Executive Librarian, Aisling Kelly.

“Offering access to professional advice will help develop oral language skills amongst young

Microsoft deal boosts Kilkenny’s education IRISH Ed-Tech company Olive Group has launched a new partnership with Microsoft that will see potentially thousands of teachers and students in Kilkenny benefitting from access to high-end, quality, interactive and digital content.

The launch of the new Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) app in Microsoft Teams as part of a joint initiative with Microsoft Ireland. Launched from within the Microsoft Teams application, Olive VLE is an intuitive software platform that delivers a wide range of interactive digital content, enabling a more user-centric learning experience for up to 145 million global Microsoft Teams users.

By making it easier for teachers and educators in Kilkenny to develop interactive material, students and learners will benefit from this new partnership.

The total student population in Ireland is just under 1.1 million and this new Irish developed technology has the potential to transform hybrid and blended learning for them.

Commenting on the announcement, Brendan Kavanagh, CEO, Olive Group said: “We’re very excited to extend the reach of Olive VLE to up to 145 million Microsoft Teams users across the world. Collaborating with Microsoft Ireland has allowed us to deploy a purpose-built learning experience that will resonate with digital natives – the swipers, scrollers, and touch screen aficionados of the world.

“Students and teachers in Kilkenny are accustomed to consuming content as part of a seamless user

experience via platforms such as Spotify, Netflix and Tiktok. Until now, an educational counterpart has been lacking. We are targeting savvy online learners who want the collaborative energy of the classroom, in a virtual setting, as well as an enhanced learning experiences that are accessible 24/7.”

Professor Kevin Marshall, Head of Education for Microsoft Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to partner with Olive Group – a company that is on the cutting edge of EdTech.

“The team has a firm appreciation of what digital natives are looking for from a learning and engagement perspective. Catering to evolving user demands requires big picture thinking, and Olive Group has a proven track record of delivering eLearning solutions that are easily deployable, customisable and userfriendly.

“Olive VLE delivers highquality digital content that is learner-centric and outcome driven, while also facilitating more dynamic student-tutor engagement and more efficient digital assessments.”

Founded in 2006, Olive Group provides a fully integrated range of workforce development services.

Headquartered in Dublin, it employs 600 people in 12 countries.

Olive Group develops high-end courses and digital content.

It has developed its own suite of eLearning platforms using the latest technologies including virtual reality and artificial intelligence, part of our future learning.

children from an early stage, making literacy and reading issues less likely to occur in the future.”

The programme is kindly funded by the Dormant Accounts Fund. * For more information contact Aisling on aisling. kelly@kilkennylibrary.ie / 056 7794977, or visit www.kilkennylibrary.ie

AT A GLANCE

Technology big wins for our students Kilkenny College had four students in the Engineering and Technology Teacher’s Association National Competitions 2021.

Daniel Neale and Aaron Langrell were in the National Young Engineer Competition Higher Level Competition.

Tim cope and Troy Pienaar were in the National Young Technologist Leaving Cert Higher Level Competition.

Each student was awarded a certificate of Distinction for competing in the National Final.

Troy Pienaar was the 2nd prize Winner of the National Young Technologist Leaving Cert Higher Level Competition held in TUS:MMW Athlone Campus.

Hynes defection ‘poses a threat’ for Noonan

How Mary and Kate Leneghan are raising mental health Awareness THE Aware Christmas 5K takes place the weekend after next, Friday, December to Sunday the 12th.

People from all over Ireland are invited to come together virtually to be part of this fun, festive and healthy event to support Aware’s services for people impacted by depression and bipolar disorder. And everyone is invited to dress up in their favourite Santa hat or Christmas jumper.

Sisters Mary and Kate Leneghan are among the many already in the spirit as they get ready to dash, dance and prance!

In the last year, 30,000 people have directly benefited from Aware’s support services, and a further 8,000

people took part in education programmes facilitated

by Aware.

The Covid-19 pandemic has further fuelled the need for such supports, with Aware expecting sustained high levels of demand during 2022. This is one of the biggest fundraisers of the year for the charity.

People from all over Ireland are invited to come together virtually to be part of this fun, festive and healthy event to support Aware’s services for people impacted by depression and bipolar disorder.

The Aware Christmas 5k is one of the charity’s most important fundraising events of the year. Aware, which was established in 1985, is

the national organisation providing free support, education, and information for people impacted by depression, bipolar disorder, and related mood conditions.

The charity is inviting people from all over Ireland to walk, jog, run or hike their favourite 5k route anywhere in the country at a time of their choice over the weekend, and to share their efforts on social media using #WeAreAware to further demonstrate their support.

And those who really wish you get into the spirit of things, can wear their Christmas jumper!! * For more information, please visit www.aware.ie

The defection of local councillor Denis Hynes from Labour to Sinn Féin poses a threat to Heritage Minister and Kilkenny TD Malcolm Noonan’s Dáil seat, a newspaper report today claims.

The article by veteran political correspondent John Drennan in Irish Mail on Sunday suggests Cllr Hynes’ move to Sinn Féin is part of a wider move by the party to field second candidates in certain constituencies to transfer their huge suppost levels in the polls to extra Dáil seats in the next General Election.

In the last election local poll topper Kathleen Funchion has a surplus of 5,000 votes, which were crucial in helping to propel Malcom Noonan from seventh place after the first count into the Dáil.

Big line-up for Yulefest Kilkenny’s stunning St. Canice’s Cathedral will host ‘December Sounds’ with Liam Ó Maonlaí, Cormac Begley, Bird On The Wire, Malojian, Seamus Fogarty and more from December 20 to 22 as part of Yulefest Kilkenny.

On Monday, December 20, Bríd Lyons, Cormac Begley, John Francis Flynn & Liam Ó Maonlai will open.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Opinion

Once again, women and children were discounted AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

IT is said that mistakes are a learning experience. Maybe it would be more accurate to say that they can be … sometimes the same mistakes keep getting made over and over again without the learning so that things would to be done differently next time around. Addressing the issues around Mother & Baby Homes is a case in point.

The weakest members of a society are the easiest to ignore, to abuse, to push around and to mistreat as though they are not entitled to full human rights. In the case of women and children it has been a long, hard struggle to establish those rights and recourse for unmarried mothers, battered wives and abused children.

We have travelled a long way in some respects when it comes distancing ourselves from the past. These days we find the punitive attitudes held by society as a whole, not only Church and State but families and fathers responsible for mother and baby homes and industrial schools shocking and unacceptable. Then unmarried mothers, their babies and children in difficulties were

hidden behind the walls of institutions, trafficked into incarceration, forced adoptions, unpaid labour and sometimes death. But it seems attitudes from the past persist.

The 2015 Commission Report on Mother & Baby Homes was tasked with giving “a full account of what happened to women and children in Mother & Baby Homes between 1922

and 1998”. When the report was published earlier this year, instead of fully recognising the harm suffered by women and children it caused further trauma by ignoring much of the evidence given by survivors and sidestepping the culpability of Church and State. Once again, women and children were discounted.

Following a storm of controversy, a team of 25 experts

were convened and gave an alternative response, strongly disagreeing with report, having analysed the available evidence differently.

The powers-that-be might have learned a lesson from the mistakes of the commission.

But it wasn’t to be. It was announced that the redress scheme set up to compensate the survivors of mother and baby homes was to be

limited to those who as children had been in mother and baby homes for more than six months. The dwindling number of mothers were to be compensated fostered children were excluded and the scheme limited to 34,000 survivors. The rational for this decision by civil servants was that the cost of compensating all 58,000 survivors could run to €1.6 billon which “ could derail

the support for those most in need.” A conclusion reached in the name of expediency and penny pinching, regardless of the further hurt and distress caused for the excluded.

As a journalist, I heard many stories from those who had suffered due to adoption. The effects are not something that turn on or off at the flick of a switch at a certain point. The trauma of separation from a birth mother, the lack of early attachment, being sent to unsuitable families or America for adoption, not knowing who exactly you are, not having medical information you need about your birth parents, being denied the possibility of tracing your mother or parents or access to records, even when tracing was meant to be facilitated.

The effects of adoption are for life and it’s worth saying that, for survivors in general, the main issue is not about financial compensation but about recognition that harm has been wrongfully done to them.

The initial announcement about the redress scheme caused a storm, more hurt and conflict was caused to survivors side-lined in the interests of expediency and cost cutting. A rethink is on the cards but not before the harm caused by a lesson unlearned has been done

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News

SPECIAL REPORT MOST people in Ireland (89%) agree that we need to be kinder to one another and two in every five (41%) say that people were kinder during, rather than before, the pandemic, according to new research commissioned

by Maxol.

The majority of people (87%) feel good when they perform an act of kindness and there is widespread agreement (89%) that we need to be kinder to one another, according to the Maxol research.

However, 85% also say that we need to be kinder to ourselves and that kindness starts with oneself, a sentiment echoed by clinical psychologist Dr Eddie Murphy.

This Christmas, give the gift of kindness says Eddie Murphy.

Dr Murphy believes that the best gift we can give this Christmas is the gift of kindness. “There are so many things out of our control right now but being kind is the one thing in our lives that’s within our control. There are many benefits to being kind and kindness doesn’t have to involve grand gestures. By being inclusive, generous of spirit or perhaps by being kind to a stranger, we can all cultivate and encourage kindness,” he says.

In relation to cultivating kindness, 80% of those surveyed said that kindness should be taught in school.

The research findings were released to coincide with the launch of the 12 Days of Kindness, which is part of Maxol’s annual Christmas campaign to raise much needed funds for mental health charity Aware.

During November and December, 10c from every cup of ROSA Coffee and hot beverage purchased in a Maxol service station is donated to Aware. The campaign is expected to raise €70,000

‘Kindness starts with oneself..

Pandemic sees us being kinder to each other

ing to CEO, Brian Donaldson. “If there is one positive to be taken from the past 20 months it’s the many acts of kindness, big and small, that we have witnessed or experienced during the pandemic. Aware is a vital mental health charity that needs support, particularly as a result of the pandemic and the impact it has had on so many people.”

Aware provides free support, education and information services to people impacted by depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood-related disorders has reported consistently high levels of demand for its services since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

* The Nationwide Study was conducted as part of the iReach Consumer Decisions Omnibus Survey among 1,000 adults from November 18 to 21, 2021.

THE SURVEY AT A GLANCE....

and to help spread some extra kindness, Maxol is inviting customers to buy a ROSA Coffee for a stranger in the 12 Days of Kindness.

Until December 12, customers can buy two coffees at participating Maxol service stations, one for themselves and one for a stranger,

meaning 20c will be donated to Aware. Any coffees not redeemed will be donated to local charities in this ‘pay it forward’ style initiative.

Three quarters (75%) of people say that kindness is contagious and that’s the essence of Maxol’s 12 Days of Kindness initiative accord-

• 41% say people were kinder during the pandemic than before • Majority (89%) say we all need to be kinder to one another • Give the gift of kindness this Christmas says clinical psychologist, Dr Eddie Murphy at launch of 12 Days of Kindness campaign

Quality Street reveals our favourite Christmas sweet THEY asked – and Irish consumers have spoken.

Their favourite retro Quality Street sweet is the Coffee Crème.

It may have been out of our tubs and tins for more than 20 years, but the coffee crème has not been forgotten. Not only does it have a Facebook group dedicated to its return, but Nestlé UK & Ireland receives more enquiries about the coffee crème than any other discontinued Quality Street variety.

Now its status has been cemented after it topped a poll of most-loved throwback sweets.

Receiving more votes than

the bottom three varieties combined, only the Almond Octagon mounted a serious challenge to the coffee-flavoured favourite. The full results were as follows: Maria McKenna, Confectionery Marketing Manager, Nestlé Ireland, said: “Many Quality Street fans have an old favourite, and our survey has shown that when it Retro sweet Coffee Crème Almond Octagon Fruits of the Forest Crème Jaffa Toffee Vanilla Octagon Total votes

comes to our sweets, absence really does make the heart grow fonder. Although the coffee crème hasn’t featured in the mix since the turn of the millennium, it’s clear that it still holds a special place in the heart of both Irish and UK consumers.

“We would like to thank everyone who took the time to vote in our survey. It’s great to Number of votes cast 8146 5312 2623 2409 2310 20,800

see the love for favourites old and new, and we hope our winners will love sampling their tailor-made prizes,” she said.

Five lucky winners will now receive a tin of delicious coffee crèmes, handmade by Nestlé’s expert chocolatiers in York.

Quality Street is made at Nestlé’s factory in Halifax, UK which is currently making up to 50,000 tins every single day to keep shelves well stocked for Christmas. At peak times, the factory uses almost 500 tonnes of liquid chocolate and 350 tonnes of toffee every week to make the twistwrapped favourites.

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News Your Money

So, would you like a long weekend every week?

GUEST COLUMNIST JOHN DONOGHUE

THE war for talent is heating up. It feels like every day begins with a new jobs announcement.

Employers are competing for talent like never before and driving unsustainable wage inflation in the economy. Competition creates innovation, and the next battleground for talent may well be working time.

Who will be the first largescale employer to offer a fourday workweek in Ireland? We don’t know, but one thing is for sure, employees will vote with their feet.

China’s tech titans built on the 996 model of employees working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week, are being reformed in favour of a more reasonable work-life balance.

Our five-day week looks good by comparison, but as the so-called ‘middle class’ has grown in Ireland, the value of personal time has risen. Have we got the balance right?

Every hour of rest before midnight is said to be worth two hours after the clock strikes 12. Maybe every hour away from the keyboard on a Friday afternoon is worth two

hours of ‘Saturday time’. If we valued our weekends before Covid-19, we cherish them now that we can do everything that makes life enjoyable again. But still, employers persist with the five-day workweek.

Measuring performance can be a tricky task. Without the suitable parameters in place, a company can focus on the wrong things and allow perception to become

a reality. Joe or Mary can be ‘hard workers’ because of hours spent grinding at 50% capacity with little value to the client paying for their time.

At ifac, we are perhaps a few steps ahead. Ifac is Ireland’s eighth-largest professional services firm by turnover and the largest firm in the country by the number of clients, and not only do we have a ‘live and work’ in your local com-

munity approach across more than 30 locations – we have had people working a fourday week for many years.

This is often driven by personal needs, everything from supporting a family business to looking after elderly parents or even childcare costs. We have clear key performance indicators (KPIs) and an incentive model that rewards individual and team performance. We measure

productivity. What have we found? We’ve found that people are as productive on four extended days as they are on five eight-hour days.

And they are often happier and more in control of their time.

We acted decisively this year and introduced a formal flexible working policy. The certainty provided by the policy has been a game-changer.

The clarity in our approach

is attractive for people who have found a new life during Covid-19 and now need the flexibility it created.

Ireland is a laggard on employee leave. With 29 leave days inclusive of public holidays, we are well behind some of our European counterparts.

There are now 17 four-day workweek projects at the trial stage across the country.

Ireland is a leader in many ways and an attractive place to do business. The increase in Ireland’s Corporation Tax rate to 15% will make us slightly less attractive for foreign direct investment.

But as we know, FDI in the knowledge economy follows talent, and talent goes where the culture is a fit, and the rewards are good. Time is our most valuable asset, and it is now part of the consideration set when people look at a rewards package.

Change starts slowly and then happens all at once. Employers are working hard to win the race for talent. Flexibility and remote working have arrived, and the fourday workweek will be here soon. How soon? Within 10 years? It’s a definite maybe. *John Donoghue is CEO of ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness professional services firm

Eating healthily at Christmas ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

YULETIDE is a time of indulgence. The one period of the year where everyone, or so it seems, expects and is expected to eat, drink and be merry.

That said, for some people this goes against their daily practice. Obviously there are parts of the globe which enjoy festivities at other points of the calendar and even within our own local communities, there are those for whom the 25th December is just another day.

The world and its inhabitants and their cultures are interesting because they are varied!

There are also people who, for whatever reason, need to watch what they eat and drink. Perhaps it is especially difficult for them. Whilst the rest of us are stuffing our faces, they must be cautious.

Or maybe it doesn’t even bother them at all. That said, joining in the festive fun is something which brightens up the cold,

short days of the twelfth month. So the question is, how to do this?

A wise old man once said “a little of what you fancy does you good”.

Well, that’s not strictly true. The saying might be sound but the person who first voiced, or rather sang, those words was the risqué Victorian comedienne and music hall performer, Marie Lloyd.

Given much of what we associate with the modern Christmas originates from those times, perhaps we should treat this as fitting advice. It does, after all, correspond with the Confucian teaching of “hari hachi bu”, that you should eat until you are 80% full. Or with the Japanese proverb “eight parts of a full stomach sustain the man, the other two sustain the doctor”. In other words, eat, be merry but don’t overdo it.

There’s also good news for those who enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner. Turkey is very healthy meat as it is rich in protein, a wide range of vitamins and also contains a lot of mineral nutrients. Stuffing only

need be unhealthy if you use ingredients which aren’t good for you too.

Heavy, low GI, breads such as Polish rye or German pumpernickel offer a good base for this side dish whilst also helping your body to stay feeling great. If you’ve time to make your own cranberry sauce, you can also ensure that what you’re putting into your mouth there will bring more benefits than harm as well.

When it comes to immediate health, there are ways to ensure you don’t wake up sick on the 26th too. Obviously being careful how much alcohol you consume is a good way to ensure you don’t get a hangover. Not drinking at all leaves you even more certain of not suffering the post-drink blues. That said, most people enjoy a tipple at Christmas and wise advice there would be that darker drinks contain higher concentrations of congeners which are known to make you more ill the next day. In short, indulging on vodka or gin will result in you feeling better than whiskey or brandy.

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Science & Wellbeing RESEARCH accumulated by the Centre for Urban Design and Mental Health confirms it: People living in big cities are far more susceptible to mental illnesses than those living in more quiet, rural areas. Specifically, city-dwellers are almost 40% more likely to suffer from depression and other mood disorders and twice as likely to develop schizophrenia.

For decades, psychologists, philosophers, and urban planners have hypothesised as to why urban environments could be associated with poor mental health. During this time, many viable explanations have been brought forth. For one, citydwellers are routinely placed in emotional states that eat away at their psychological wellbeing, such as stress, isolation, and uncertainty.

There seems to be something about cities that brings out the worst in people regardless of whether they arrived with predetermined trauma in tow. One of the academic texts which comes closest to describing this “something” is ‘The Metropolis and Mental Life’, an essay that was published in 1903 and written by the German sociologist Georg Simmel.

Growing up in the burgeoning metropolis of Berlin during the so-called Belle Époque, Georg Simmel did not share his contemporaries’ unwavering belief in civilisation. Where others saw society as continuously improving with the help of science and commerce, Simmel could not help but feel as though humanity had taken a wrong turn and was now paying for its mistake.

In his essay, Simmel compares living in a rural village to a big city and tries to show how each environment shapes the psychology of its inhabitants for better or worse. His central thesis is that city-dwellers, because they are exposed to so many more audiovisual stimuli than their countryside counterparts, involuntarily erect psychological defenses against their surroundings that make life less rewarding.

Likening the human nervous system to an electrical circuit, Simmel supposes that this system — if overstimulated for a prolonged period of time — will

When living in our cities is bad for our mental health

cease to function. As a result, things that once emotionally or intellectually stimulated the city-dweller quickly cease to excite them. Simmel refers to this outlook as blasé, but today, people also use the term jaded.

“The essence of the blasé attitude,” writes Simmel, “is an indifference toward the distinctions between things.

Not in the sense that they are not perceived, as is the case of

mental dullness, but rather that the meaning and value of the distinctions between things... are experienced as meaningless. They appear to the blasé person in a homogeneous, flat and grey color.”

The number of people which city-dwellers must interact with on a daily basis is so large that it is both impossible and impractical to develop a personal connection with every one they

meet. Consequently, most interactions with others are brief and impersonal.

This is in sharp contrast to the village, where inhabitants are intimately familiar with each other.

While relationships in towns are governed by emotions, those in cities are based on reason. “All emotional relationships between persons rest on their individuality,” writes Sim-

mel, “whereas intellectual relationships deal with persons as with numbers, that is, as with elements which, in themselves, are indifferent, but which are of interest only insofar as they offer something objectively perceivable.”

Because city-dwellers are unable to establish meaningful relationships with a large number of people in their vicinity, their interactions with different

‘Cities are full of people we don’t know...

elements of society become economic rather than communal. Consequently, the trust which city- dwellers are able to vest in one another is transferred over to the currencies they exchange instead.

Georg Simmel refers to money or currency as “the frightful leveler” because it expresses everything in the same monetary unit. Goods and services, rather than being unique to the person that provided them, acquire a value that can instantly be compared to all other things. Thus, the market economy, fully developed in big cities, also contributes to the city-dweller’s inability to distinguish their surroundings.

Modern cities are built on individuality, which is expressed in the specialisation of its labour as well as the financial independence of its inhabitants. The polis, by comparison, was more like a large, small town. Rather than separating its populations into distinct economic units, these citystates promoted the notion that everyone was part of the same social institution.

As the world’s metropolises continue to grow, so too do the public health crises that fester in their bowels. “The deepest problems of modern life,” Georg Simmel wrote more than 100 years ago, “flow from the attempt of the individual to maintain the independence and individuality of his existence against the sovereign powers of society, against the weight of the historical heritage and the external culture and technique of life.”

Why most modern humans possess Neanderthal DNA IN her new book, Life as We Made It: How 50,000 Years of Human Innovation Refined — and Redefined — Nature, biologist Beth Shapiro explores the many ways humans have shaped nature over the millennia.

By 700,000 years ago, lineages belonging to the genus Homo were distributed from the southern tip of Africa northward and across Europe and Asia. They were sophisticated tool users with large brains and dexterous hands, and they had begun to manipulate the world around them. After that, the fossil evidence points to a scenario something like this: Homo erectus gave rise to Homo heidelbergensis, who spread across Africa and into Europe

and lived from around 700,000 years ago until around 200,000 years ago. Homo heidelbergensis gave rise to our cousins, Homo neanderthalensis, or Neanderthals, by 400,000 years ago and probably in Europe or the Middle East, and to us, Homo sapiens, in Africa by 300,000 years ago.

Today, every described Homo lineage apart from our own is extinct. The dates of the most recent remains of many latesurviving lineages coincide with evidence that our own lineage had turned up in their habitats.

This uncanny coincidence of events also has a simple interpretation: our ancestors killed off all the other human lineages in Africa, left Africa for Europe where they killed off the

Neanderthals, and then spread across the rest of the world killing off whatever remnant populations of nonsapiens human they encountered.

This was essentially the big picture of relatively recent human evolution when the field of ancient DNA was first established. Given our species’ selfish tendencies, it’s not surprising that Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens were among the first targets for ancient DNA research. What these early studies found, however, surprised everyone.

The first Neanderthal DNA sequence was published in 1997.

This study, like most genetic research that focuses on Neanderthals, was led by Svante Pääbo, who at the time was a

professor at the University of Munich but is now director of the department of genetics at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig.

In 1997, Pääbo and colleagues published the sequence of a small fragment of Neanderthal mitochondrial DNA. Mitochondrial DNA was a common target of early ancient DNA studies for a few reasons. First, every cell has thousands of copies of the mitochondrial genome (mitochondria are organelles found outside the cell’s nucleus and have their own genomes) but only two copies of the nuclear genome. This means that mitochondrial DNA is simply more likely than nuclear DNA to survive in fossils.

Second, mitochondria are passed down the maternal line, which makes their evolutionary history simple to interpret. The mitochondrial DNA that Pääbo published in 1997 was distinct from all mitochondria present in modern humans, which suggested (like the fossil record) that Neanderthals and humans evolved along separate paths.

In the early 2000s, new approaches to sequencing DNA made it economical and practical to try to sequence a Neanderthal nuclear genome. In 2010, Ed Green, Svante Pääbo, and others collaborated to produce a complete draft sequence of the Neanderthal genome and, for the first but certainly not last time, ancient DNA rewrote human evolutionary

history. With this first draft genome, the team confirmed that Neanderthal populations and modern human populations separated around 460,000 years ago, approximately when the fossil record suggests that the earliest hominins with typical Neanderthal morphologies appeared in Europe.

However, the data also delivered a surprise. Some fragments of what could now be identified as Neanderthal DNA were present in modern human genomes. This could only be explained if our cleanly branching evolutionary tree were not cleanly branching after all—if the lineages leading to Neanderthals and modern humans had first separated and then, later, come back together again.

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Travel & Leisure 1. SHANGRILA PARIS Location: 10 Av. d’Iéna, 75116 Paris The Shangri-La Paris is located on the picturesque Seine River.

It’s one of the best hotels in Paris with an Eiffel Tower view and balcony.

This hotel was the former residence of Prince Roland Bonaparte and has been converted into 100 rooms and luxury suites that blend traditional French style with an Asian flair.

The Shangri-La is also complete with a wellness centre and elegant pool.

Guests also have the choice to dine between two restaurants, the Le Shang Paris (the only Chinese Michelin Star rated in France) and the impressive glass-roofed La Bauhinia.

The hotel is also conveniently located close to the Iena Metro Station, Parc de Princes Stadium, and the prestigious avenues of Montaigne and Champs-Elysees.

2. HOTEL LA BOURDONNAIS Location: 111-113 Av. de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris.

This boutique 4-star hotel is located in the 7th Arrondissement in central Paris. The Hotel La Bourdonnais is located just behind the Parc du Champ de Mars and is just five minutes away from the Eiffel Tower.

This 53 room hotel reflects its love of French art and is not far from other attractions like the Orsay Museum, Palais Garnier Opera, and Place de la Concorde public square.

The hotel is also conveniently located 200m from the Ecole Militaire Metro Stations and 25km from the Charles de Gaulle Airport.

3. THE PULLMAN PARIS HOTEL THE LOUVRE Image by Marc Babin on Unsplash Location: 18 Avenue De Suffren, 22 Rue Jean Rey Entrée Au, 75015 Paris.

The Pullman Paris is located on the Left Bank, which is one of the most prestigious districts in Paris, the Tour Eiffel District, and is just 300m away from the Eiffel Tower. So if there’s anywhere you’re going to learn facts about Paris, it’ll be here.

This is one of the most romantic hotels in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower.

This contemporary hotel also boasts some of the best views of Paris both in the day and at night.

The hotel’s guests can dine outside on the terrace of the Frame restaurant that serves Californian-style dishes with a French twist and take in the views of the city.

The hotel is a short distance from the Bir-Hakiem Metro Station, which provides direct access to the Arc de Triomphe and The Louvre Museum.

4. HOTEL RAPHAEL Image by William Krause on Unsplash Location: 17 Av. Kléber, 75116 Paris Built in 1925, this 83 room hotel is the epitome of French elegance and is well known

7 Best Hotels in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower

throughout France. Hotel Raphael sets the standard for French hospitality and guarantees guests a remarkable stay.

The hotel’s decor is inspired by the bygone eras of King Louis XV and Louis XVI. The interior is fitted with genuine antique furniture, hand-carved wood paneling, and hand-painted wall murals with hints of inspiration from the Roaring Twenties.

The Raphael boasts the most beautiful rooftop in Paris and its restaurant and spacious terrace on the 7th floor offer 360° unspoiled views of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and city, the perfect place for a summertime meal.

5. HOTEL SAN REGIS Location: 12 Rue Jean Goujon, 75008 Paris Hidden behind a discreet and

underplayed entrance, lies one of the most exclusive hotels in Paris, the San Regis. Initially, Hotel San Regis was built as a private residence for a wealthy French man in 1857 and was later transformed into a hotel in 1923.

Located in the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Paris in the 8th Arrondissement, the San Regis is one of the most luxurious hotels with Eiffel Tower views

Revealed: 7 secrets about staying in a hotel THE hotel is one of the most important components of travel. After all, even a small thing like a broken bed or a dirty room can spoil the impression of the entire trip.

Therefore, to get ready in advance, Elisticle shares with you some little tricks that will help you save money and have a great time on vacation.

1. Book a room one to two days before check-in.

The prices for hotels can change every day, and it all depends on the season and upcoming events. Therefore, it’s better to book a room

closer to the date of arrival to save up to 50%.

2. If you don’t like your room, you can change it for free.

For example, if you booked a room with a view of the sea and received a view of a building site, you have the right to demand the room you originally ordered. If you don’t like the room for subjective reasons (located on the upper/ lower floor), then you can ask (but not demand) a change of room. If there are vacant rooms, the hotel staff will show them to you. No additional

fees for changing rooms should be taken.

3. Choose a hotel by its ratings, not by the number of stars.

A 3-star hotel can be much better than a 5-star hotel, so read the reviews before you book a room. Remember that people write negative comments much more willingly. In order not to be confused, pay attention to those nuances mentioned by the majority.

4. You can take the shampoo, shower gel, and other cosmetic products with you.

from its rooms. The hotel is also a short walk away from the Champs-Elysees, Trocadero, and the Grand Palais.

The 42 rooms and suites are charming and styled in traditional Parisian style and are peaceful retreats in the bustling city of Paris.

The larger suites have large marble bathrooms and spacious walk-in wardrobes.

The Junior Terrace suites open Don’t think you’ve done something bad. After all, this is the reason why the hotel staff puts all these disposable things in a room. Yet it’s better to leave the towel and bathrobe in the room.

5. Photos of a hotel can differ from reality.

You expected to get a luxurious room, and when you arrived, you saw a small room with a half-ruined bedside table and a small bed. To avoid this situation, search for the hotel photos on the Internet. Guests often post real photos of the rooms and the hotel itself.

6. Check the minibar.

A minibar is a magic chest containing different delicacies at crazy prices.

And in order not to pay money for someone else’s pleasures, check the bottles are closed. After all, the previous guest could easily have had a drink and poured tap water into the bottle instead.

7. How to cancel a reservation at the last moment before check-in and not pay a fine for it.

Instead of canceling the reservation immediately, ask to move it ahead a week. Then call the next day to cancel it.

up to a private terrace with spectacular views of the city.

These suites are some of the best places in Paris to watch the sunrise.

6. THE HOTEL DU CHAMP DE MARS Location: 7 Rue du Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris.

The Hotel du Champ de Mars is a charming little romantic located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. But don’t worry, if you are planning a vacation with the entire household, this spot is family-friendly too.

This 25 room hotel is located in the 7th Arrondissement, just off the Rue Cler, that’s lined with cafes, markets, and specialty shops. The hotel is just a 10- minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.

The hotel might have small hotel rooms but it provides a warm, cozy traditional French atmosphere and a very upclose view of the Eiffel Tower from the upper levels.

7. LE TSUBA HOTEL CHAMPSELYSSE Image by Stephanie LeBlanc on Unsplash Location: 45 Rue des Acacias, 75017 Paris.

Le Tsuba is a sophisticated art deco Parisian hotel in the 17th Arrondissement. All of its 82 rooms offer a view of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and avenue of Champs-Elysse.

Le Tsuba is also conveniently close to the Louvre, Notre Dame de Paris, and the Orsay Museum which are all just a 20 to 30-minute metro ride away from the hotel.

While this hotel might not get you as close to the Eiffel Tower as you would like, it is definitely one of the most romantic hotels in Paris with a view of the famous tower.1.

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Yulefest

Pangur Bán : the cat who got the cream in Kilkenny

PANGUR Bán, one of Ireland’s mythical animals, who featured in what is thought to be one of Ireland’s oldest poems, written by an Irish monk in Austria in the 8th century, has become the latest addition to Kilkenny’s CatWalk, a trail of twenty two cats in the medieval Marble City.

Having played a central role in Cartoon Saloon’s Oscarnominated The Secret of Kells animated movie in 2009, Pangur Bán has again inspired a local artistic family to create the final addition to the trail, specially commissioned by the city’s Yulefest Christmas festival and Kilkenny Civic Trust.

The piece was jointly created by established contemporary, abstract artist, Brock Butler and his daughters, fine artist Jade Butler and illustrator and sculptor Blaise Butler.

The statue was unveiled by Cartoon Saloon’s Director Paul Young and his daughter Robyn, at the city’s Parade area, in front of Kilkenny Castle, which is hosting the city’s Christmas Market and a myriad of musical, theatrical and artistic events at the heart of the annual Christmas festival.

Civic Trust chairperson, Colette Byrne said ‘This latest catwalk statue is a wonderful celebration of the medieval culture of our city but with a central connection to the magnificent work of Cartoon Saloon who celebrate this medieval culture through the innovative use of animation techniques which are beautiful, creative, thoroughly modern but still respectful of the culture of art and literature we exported all over Europe.

The interpretation of the Pangur bán character, who we remember with fondness from our school days, breathes new life into this most ancient of feline stars.

The intergenerational collaboration between the two generations of the Butler family show that these traditions are in safe hands. I look forward to them inspiring the next generation of creative children, both local and those

who visit our city to celebrate the Christmas season.’

Information on artists: Brock Butler has been exhibit-

ing in Kilkenny for many years and has also shown in Dublin, Galway, Belfast, Edinburgh and London as well as at various

Parliament Street was popping

THE Yulefest Friday Night DJ Beats began on Friday night in the Watergate Pocket Park, on Parliament Street. Positioning itself as something a bit different to begin your Friday evening in the city, or to end your work week. The Watergate Pocket Park has been decorated for Yulefest by local Parliament St. Florist Iris and features the DJs The Se7en Inch Collective. A place to catch up with friends and get in to the festive spirit in an outdoor environment with free entertainment. While the dark evening and the weather might have got the evening off to a slow start, word started to spread and soon the tunes were enticing in passers-by, visiting families brought their take aways along, children and adults were enjoying hot chocolates and those who were out for the night were up danc-

ing. There were Christmas Trees a plenty and music that complimented ‘that Friday feeling’.

If you missed out this week don’t worry, Friday Night DJ Beats is back again this Friday the 10th and the 17th and it finishes on Wednesday the 22nd just in time to catch up with your friends before Christmas. This is a free event, so just rock up and enjoy.

While the DJ Beats takes place on Friday the Watergate Pocket Park in all its festiveness is open all week. A great outdoor place to meet a friend for coffee or to enjoy your lunch. There are plenty of benches and loads of Parliament street eateries to cater for all tastes.

More information can be found on www. yulefestkilkenny.ie and @YulefestKilkenny on Facebook.

arts festivals and international art fairs. He has three times been awarded Government per cent for art commissions.

Collectors of his work include financier Dermot Desmond and Senator David Norris, and he is also included in numerous hotel collections around the country.

Jade Butler has been emerging in recent years as a name to watch in the art world.

Graduating from West Wales School of the Arts in 2010, her current work is primarily contemporary still life in oils.

Her work has been selected for the prestigious annual exhibition of The Royal Hibernian Academy , as well as The Royal Ulster Academy and The Royal Scottish Academy.

Her paintings are held in private collections in Europe and America and several public collections including the Office of Public Works N.I. Both Brock and Jade had paintings included in the recent Butler Gallery fundraising auction at Lyrath Estate on November 26th, which raised over €60.000 for the city’s municipal contemporary art gallery.

Blaise Butler is an illustrator and sculptor. Using her middle name Pandora, her work can be seen on InstaInsta

gram as blaisepandoraart.

She most recently exhibited her sculptures at The Secret Garden Exhibition during Kilkenny Arts Festival 2021.

Having lived for several years in Australia, where she expanded her artistic range, working for some time with a studio of tattoo artists - she has now returned to Kilkenny and has also returned to Art School to extend her skills even further, studying ceramics at Grennan Mill.

Information on The Kilkenny Catwalk 2021 Trail A trail of wonderful Kilkenny Cat sculptures which have been decorated by some of Ireland’s most talented artists, mainly local, on public display in and around Kilkenny City.

This arts project is a partnership project between Kilkenny Civic Trust and Kilkenny County Council which can be engaged with outdoors, whilst adhering to physical distancing requirements, regardless of restrictions. The Cat Walk art trail is fun, bright and engaging and will bring a smile to people’s faces and support the Keep Well Campaign. People are invited to get outdoors, follow the trail and enjoy it. https:// www.kilkennycatwalk.ie/

Top tips for the most important meal of the year

WITH Christmas fast approaching, our thoug hts the most important meal of the year – Christmas turn to Dinner!

Edward Hayden and Anne Neary are coming to Yulefest to take the mystery out of cooking the Christmas Dinner. Join them on the Yulefest Bandstand this coming Saturday (11th) at 1pm as they talk you throu gh and outs of creating the most looked forward the ins to the year. Learn all the best tips and tricks and meal of have your cooking questions answered. There might even be a few treats to taste!

Edward Hayden is a top chef and food writer who larly features on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM. Anne reguruns Ryeland House Cookery School, is an autho Neary a weekly segment on KCLR 96FM. Together they’lr and has l help you raise your Christmas dinner game, along with plenty of banter and craic. So no matter who cooks in your house, come along and enjoy.

Join them on the Yulefest Bandstand, The Parad Kilkenny City at 1pm on Saturday 11th of Dece e, mber event is free and un-ticketed. And sure while you’r . This why not explore the Yulefest Winter Market and e there, some local treats and pressies and put the cherr pick up y on the cake of a great Christmas!

More information can be found on www.yulef estkilkenny.ie and @YulefestKilkenny on Facebook.

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News

Variant travel ban ‘no solution’ THE International Air Transport Association (IATA) has criticised the imposition of “ill-advised travel bans” to counter the Omicron variant, declaring them “as as ineffective as closing the barn door after the horse has bolted”.

“The emergence of the Omicron variant panicked many governments into once again restricting or entirely removing the freedom

to travel—even though WHO clearly advised that ‘blanket travel bans will not prevent the international spread, and they place a heavy burden on lives and livelihoods,” said IATA director Willie Walsh.

“The logic of the WHO advice was evident within days of Omicron’s identification in South Africa, with its presence already

confirmed in all continents,” he continued.

“Closing borders will not prevent the spread of new variants,” said Julia Simpson, president and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Commission (WTTC).

“The latest variant is increasingly being detected in countries around the world. The way to keep safe is to focus on the vac-

cination status of individual travellers rather than placing whole countries onto red lists.”

“Rather than stigmatising countries such as South Africa, which rely heavily on a strong Travel & Tourism, we should be applauding them for identifying this new variant so quickly,” she added.

“Until we fully understand this new variant we must focus on

prioritising the world distribution of vaccines while adopting sensible measures such as wearing masks.”

Before the detection of the Omicron variant, IATA October data showed improvement in the aviation sector: • Total demand for air travel in October 2021 was down 49.4% compared to October 2019, but

Local karate club strikes out for cancer

THE Budo Martial Arts Centre, a local karate club based out of the Watershed, recently raised €485 in aid of Cancer Awareness and Prevention. All funds were donated to the Irish Cancer Society.

The club came up with the idea of running a ‘Pink Belt Karate Seminar’ for its members as a means to raise funds for such a worthy cause.

According to Chief Instructor for the club, Kevin Shortall: “Karate associations all around the world use many different belt colours which represent the level the student is at. Pink belts generally are not used

Glanbia in buy-back share deal of up to €50 million

within karate circles, so it was a good opportunity to use a coloured belt that was very much unique within karate but more importantly was a colour that is normally associated with cancer associations.

“During the seminar each student regardless of rank

remove their karate belt and each wore a pink belt. It also created a great feeling of unity among the members as all wore the same belt colour,” he said.

The club was delighted with the way the event went and hope to repeat it again next year and raise even

more funds for the Irish Cancer Society. The club are currently enrolling for their beginner classes for kids and adults which are due to start in early January.

Our photo shows, back row from left: Kevin Shortall (Chief Instructor), Pedro Montoia, Bernard Bracken,

Tom Walsh, Lee Chadwick, and Steve McLaughlin.

Front row from left: Patrick Melanophy, John Elliott, Iza Kol, Sonia Lazer, and Billy Clowry. *Check out www. budomartialartscentre. com for further details.

Help vaccinate the world this Christmas PEOPLE in Kilkenny are being urged to buy a Christmas present with a difference this year. Only 5% of people living in low income countries have received their first Covid-19 vaccine and UNICEF Ireland is asking Kilkenny residents to give the gift of hope this Christmas by donating vaccines on behalf of their loved ones to the world’s poorest people.

A €50 donation from Christmas shoppers in Kilkenny

will allow UNICEF deliver 12 Covid-19 vaccine doses, as well as four rapid testing kits, to frontline workers. As fears grow about the newly identified Omicron variant, UNICEF Ireland said the faster vaccines can reach the people who need them, the more lives can be saved, and the safer everyone will be from variants.

Since March, UNICEF has delivered more than 500 million vaccine doses to over

140 countries. Through their support for UNICEF’s vaccine campaign, people from Kilkenny have donated over 25,000 Covid-19 vaccine deliveries to some of the world’s least developed countries, and UNICEF Ireland hopes this is incredible support will continue this Christmas.

To support the campaign, people in Kilkenny have the choice of three ‘UNICEF Survival Gifts’, ranging from €20 to €80 and available at www.

unicef.ie. Christmas shoppers can also send a Christmas Card to their loved one, which highlights the life-saving difference their present has made.

A donation to UNICEF means that vaccines get to the most remote and isolated places in the world and Executive Director Peter Power said UNICEF Ireland is hoping that Christmas shoppers in Kilkenny will help protect people at risk of Covid-19.

“Vaccines give us all hope.

They save lives and protect against the emergence of new variants. We are heading into the special Christmas period and we are asking people in Kilkenny to buy hope for others around the world,” he said. * To purchase these unique gifts and help end the pandemic, UNICEF Ireland is encouraging is shoppers to visit www.unicef.ie.

Let’s hear it for health at this time of the year ‘TIS the season to think about our hearing health, according to report from Hidden Hearing this week, at the launch of their Gift of Hearing Christmas campaign.

Winter can make hearing that bit harder, physically, the experts say, as lower temperatures can cause tinnitus and earwax problems. Darker

an improvement over the 53.3% fall recorded in September 2021, compared to two years earlier.

• Domestic markets were down 21.6% compared to October 2019, bettering the 24.2% decline recorded in September versus September 2019.

• International passenger demand in October was 65.5% below October 2019.

evenings and bad weather also mean we need good hearing to alert us to danger.

“Pedestrians need to be sure they can hear traffic approach.

At work, when gardening, or just out-and-about, missing a warning call can mean injury or worse,” said Dolores Madden, Hidden Hearing audiologist & Marketing Director.

Recent research among people with hearing loss indicates that 72% of them wish their hearing was better to enjoy the festive season and special gatherings.

Hidden Hearing is giving away €50,000 of the most advanced hearing aids this Christmas, completely free, to complement its festive mar-

keting. People can nominate themselves or a loved one, family member or friend for the #GiftOfHearing this Christmas, on https://www.hiddenhearing.ie/lp/gift-of-hearing Christmas banter, the shopping buzz, family gatherings, carols and concerts were all worth hearing, said Dolores Madden. She believed a lot

of people struggled to hear and either didn’t realise it, or ignored their problem.

“In Ireland, about two-thirds of hearing loss goes untreated, for various reasons. Around 100,000 people risk their safety and wellbeing, as well as potential knock-on impacts of hearing loss,” Dolores Madden said.

GLANBIA Plc has launched a share buy-back programme of up to €50m to reduce the share capital of the company.

Glanbia Plc and Glanbia Coop have signed legally binding agreements for the disposal of the Plc’s 40pc interest in Glanbia Ireland to the Co-op in a €307m deal. The agreements remain subject to certain approvals and conditions.

The company has hired stockbrokers Davy to act as principal in relation to the purchase of the company’s shares.

The buyback programme will run to three business days before Glanbia’s next AGM, expected to be held next May, unless otherwise terminated in accordance with the company’s agreement with Davy.

“Glanbia will deliver strong operating cash flow this year while continuing to invest in growth opportunities and shareholder returns,” Siobhan Talbot, managing director of Glanbia Plc, said following the announcement of the buy-back.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is expected to deliver a final judgement before Christmas, having reserved judgment on a motion by An Bord Pleanála seeking clarification on the scope of an appeal over its approval for a Glanbia cheese plant in Belview, Co Kilkenny.

An Taisce — The National Trust For Ireland — was granted permission in September to appeal a High Court judgment upholding the board’s permission for the €140m Glanbia plant.

The board’s motion in the Supreme Court was brought following a case management hearing on November 3, which was told there was a dispute between the parties over the breadth of the appeal permitted.

Ms Justice Elizabeth Dunne, Mr Justice Peter Charleton, Ms Justice Iseult O’Malley, Mr Justice Séamus Woulfe and Mr Justice Gerard Hogan said they hoped to deliver a ruling on the matter before Christmas.

An Taisce’s case is against the board, the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and the Environment, Ireland, and the Attorney General.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Countdown to Christmas

Sheldon Walsh’s ass

resided. Charlie never returned to the Big Chapel. He literally turned his back on the church, the Flight into Egypt, the porcelain Infant and Shelton Walsh’s ass. In spite of valiant attempts by a convent nun, no one was able to squeeze the sweetness from those dusty pipes like Charlie Hayden.

My grandmother, and many like her, followed him to the Friary. Although the Friary church was less ornate, I was pleased enough that he transferred his business. You see there were no successive masses there and I had only to sit through one. This Christmas I’ll kneel in one of the worn pews of the Big Chapel, remember my grandmother and see Shelton Walsh’s ass once again carry the Infant Jesus safely into Egypt.

In our continuing ‘Countdown to Christmas’ , The Kilkenny Observer is delighted to welcome Joe Kearney as our second contributor in our Christmas short story section. Enjoy

by Joe Kearney I have a great love for old church interiors and sacred music. The seeds of this passion were sown in Callan. My grandmother was a woman who saw nothing wrong with attending two masses on a Sunday. She insisted that her grandson accompany her and sit quietly by her side throughout the 10 O’clock and the 11 O’clock services. Spending the best part of two hours inside Callan’s famous Big Chapel offered little stimulus to my boyhood imagination. However within those hours I examined each crevice, crack and image in that church interior. Even now, many decades later, I can recall those details as clearly as if I viewed them only yesterday.

Back in the 1950s I sat and knelt in patterns of light passing through the stained glass windows. I watched it bathe the paintings, murals and statues in sacred light. Christmas time was special. New colours decorated the space. Incense smells competed with the woody scent of pine branches .Plaster farm

animals stood mutely in the crib. I listened to the wheeze of the church organ as it soared and bellowed, drowning out in the process, the reedy warble of our local choir. There were and are two vast paintings on either side of the main altar.

The one on the left depicts the Flight into Egypt. It was painted by an Augustinian priest, Father Foran and shows Joseph leading a donkey through a rough, rural landscape. On the donkey’s back sits Mary with the Infant Jesus in her arms. I still know every feature of this depiction.

The painting is dominant, and a focal point for the congregation. Due to his position at the keyboards, our then, organist, a rotund, apple-cheeked man called Charlie Hayden, spent most of his time with his back to the images. He did so as he applied himself to the complexity of stops, pedals and keys

of his chosen instrument, all the while seeking to rein in his ragged choristers with facial and body gestures. As I sat beside my grandmother, listening to Charlie and the Christmas choir, inhaling incense and dazzled by fractured light, I fanaticized that Heaven would be like this, with one exception you could run about at will and not be required to sit still for two hours.

When commissioned to paint the work, Father Foran wished to use live models. Surely there would be suitable candidates within the community? He quickly found a perfect study for Mary. The donkey was provided by a local man, Shelton Walsh.

When Mr Walsh hauled the reluctant animal for his first sitting the artist was so taken by the tableau, he immediately recruited him as the model he would use for Joseph. So, there they are, captured in oils, beside

the altar in the Big Chapel, in continuous flight into Egypt. But what of the baby Jesus, who was He based upon? On close inspection, this appears to be the one great weakness in the painting. Something is not quite right with the infant. The story locally is that the artist looked for a convenient baby to act as model.

Ours is a town of somewhat sporadic population spurts and at that particular time only one suitable candidate presented a possibility. Charlie Hayden, who would later become our organist, had recently entered the world as a baby. But he was so well loved and nourished by his mother, the artist considered

him too cherubic for the role, so instead he used a porcelain doll.

A lost opportunity for Charlie’s immortality that might have explained why the man sat so comfortably with his back to the alter..

He was our resident organist for many years. But something other than the painting caused a souring of his relationship with the Big Chapel. One Sunday the organ sat silent. The choir wobbled valiantly on but without his guidance from the keyboard.

I heard my grandmother speak of his defection to the Friary chapel, down in Mill Street, not far from the place where Shelton and his entourage once

Joe Kearney is originally from Callan and his work has appeared in various publications over the years.

Joe was recently approached to assemble a collection of memoirs and essays for publication next year.

He was also invited to contribute a piece to the newly launched GAA collection ‘Grassroots’, which is currently in bookshops..

Joe will feature in the ‘Christmas Sunday Miscellany’ programme with RTE in the National Concert Hall on 5th of Dec. This will be recorded live for their Christmas offering.

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‘Halt’ sale of age-restricted goods IRELAND’S largest youth responsible retailing training platform, entitled Show Me ID, Be Age OK, has launched its Christmas 2021 campaign, urging Irish retailers to ensure staff are fully trained on how to prevent the sale of age-restricted goods FOUR hundred years after John Rothe Fitz-Piers ran a successful merchant business from his magnificent home — Rothe House in Kilkenny city — Rothe House Museum and Gardens has launched The Merchant’s Shop selling beautiful Irish craft with all profits going towards the upkeep of the ancient Tudor house.

Fronting onto Kilkenny’s Parliament Street, The Merchant’s Shop is located in what was the first of three houses built on the site and dates to 1594. The shop is a delight of sights and smells and features a host of Kilkenny craft such as Claire Molloy ceramics, Inga Reed jewellery, Moth to a Flame candles, wood turning by Eoghan Leadbetter and Cushendale Woollen Mills. Other craft produce stocked at The Merchant’s Shop include: McNutt blankets; Three Hills soap; Michelle Hanning ceramics; Julie Clarke diffusers; McKernan woollen scarves; Kerry Woollen Mills; Enchanté scented cones and decorations; and Sallyann handbags, amongst others.

Sean Hackett, from Kennyswell Road in Kilkenny city, and whose experience straddles heritage and retail, is team leader of the new offering.

“The Merchant’s Shop caters to every pocket. We have a beautiful selection of items for the home and personal gifts that start at just a few euros. We are delighted and proud to showcase and sell such a wonderful selection of Irish craft, including many Kilkenny producers, and already we are busy with people buying Christmas gifts,” he said.

David Fitzgerald is Chair of Rothe House Trust that operates Rothe House Museum and Gardens.

Speaking about the opening of The Merchant’s Shop.“The Merchant’s Shop

to minors in the run up to Christmas.

Age-restricted products include alcohol, tobacco products and national lottery tickets. Show Me ID’s Christmas campaign is aimed at raising awareness of the importance of upholding train-

ing standards during the busiest trading period of the year, a time when most retailers look to recruit temporary and full-time staff members.

The programme provides a range of best practice tips and support, as well as advice on how to refuse a sale and

defuse confrontational situations. It also outlines why recording a sales refusal is so important.

Mr Gunning added: “I would strongly encourage All Irish retailers are being encouraged to engage with training staff for responsible

retailing by asking new and existing staff members to complete the training module in the run up to Christmas and become leaders on how to avoid the sale of age-restricted products to minors.

Engagement with the free Show Me ID training pro-

gramme is an excellent opportunity for retailers to demonstrate to customers, many of whom are parents, their commitment to adequately train staff on the prevention of the sale of age-restricted goods. * See www.showmeid.ie.

Now, shop ‘til you drop at Rothe House

is located in what we call the first house – one of three houses built on this site by John Rothe FitzPiers — and from where he ran his very successful merchant business, so it is appropriate to have trade once again at this location,” he said.

“All of the profits from The Merchant’s Shop will be used for the upkeep of Rothe House and we are already getting great feedback from customers and about how it’s a lovely addition to Parliament Street.”

To celebrate its opening, The Merchant’s Shop will host a special retail evening on Thursday, December 16

from 6pm to 9pm with 15% discount on all products and mulled wine and mince pies served to customers.

The Merchant Shop at Rothe House is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

Bord Bia welcomes renewed sheepmeat access to US THE Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has confirmed the lifting by US authorities of a ban on EU sheepmeat, an important step forward in the process of achieving market access for Irish sheepmeat exports to the US market.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) decision will pave the way for the full market access for Irish sheepmeat to the US. Sheepmeat exports from the EU to the US were banned due to the presence of scrapie in certain EU member states.

This ban has now been removed.

Welcoming the announcement, Bord Bia’s Chief Executive Tara McCarthy said: “Bord Bia is delighted with the prospect of promoting sheepmeat to the US in the coming months. Our focus will be on

raising the profile of Irish grassfed sheepmeat through awareness of it as a premium, natural product sourced from Quality Assured farms, and fully traceability from farm to fork.”

Overall sheepmeat consumption in the US is forecast to stand at 185,000 tonnes this

year. Imports in 2020 stood at 133,000 tonnes (€886 million) and account for two thirds of total sheepmeat consumption. Growing lamb consumption levels, albeit from a small base, have resulted in an increasing demand for lamb however this is not expected

to stimulate an upturn in domestic production.

Next spring, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will lead a trade mission with Bord Bia to the US, which will include a series of lamb focused meetings with key importers.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Feature

The candle in the window IN every household when Christmas eve is upon us the tradition of putting the candle in the window is something, we all remem-

ber. Pulling back the net curtains to light a ‘real candle’ with a flame that would put the heart crossways in the fire chief. So, what does

this Celtic folklore tradition mean?

The placing of a lighted candle in the window of a house on Christmas Eve

is still practiced today.

Primarily it was, and still is, a symbol of welcome to Mary and Joseph as they travelled looking for shelter.

The candle should be lit by the youngest member of the household and only be extinguished by a girl bearing the name ‘Mary’. To have no light meant that you shared the guilt of the Innkeeper at Bethlehem who said, “No Room”!

After evening meal, the kitchen table was again set and on it was placed a loaf of bread filled with caraway seeds and raisins, a pitcher of milk and a large lit candle. The door to the house was left unlatched so that Mary and Joseph, or any wandering traveller, could come in. It’s also said that leaving a loaf of bread on the table will ensure bread for the coming year. And, you should also leave a bowl of water out to be blessed by the travellers - this water would be used for cures.

Now I have to ask the question. Would you leave your front door open today and let who every is passing call in for a cuppa ?

It was believed that the rooster would crow at unusual times, and to hear him crow at midnight was a good omen, as was a new moon. A clear star-filled sky would bring good crops in the summer, and shoes placed side by side would prevent a quarrel. For good health throughout the following year, you should eat an apple at the stroke of midnight.

There were also sinister superstitions associated

with the eve of Christ’s birth. If, when all were seated round the fire, one shadow on the wall behind them was headless, then the person who cast the shadow would be dead before the end of the year! God bless the central heating and ban on the open fire! It was commonly held in Ireland that the gates of Heaven open at midnight and those who die would go straight in. It was also believed that no prayer would go unanswered on this most holy of nights.

Snow on Christmas means Easter will be green. A blowing wind on Christmas Day brings good luck - but, wearing new shoes will bring bad luck. And never turn a mattress - very bad luck for the turner! The child born on Christmas Day will have a special fortune and good luck will come to the home where a fire is kept burning throughout the Christmas season.

To bring luck and blessings, you should take a wisp of straw from the nativity scene at the church and bring it home. Believe that works!

So, Christmas is upon us and as with all Irish history and folklore there are Superstitions for the Christmas Season galore. If it makes us feel good, they are true but if they don’t suit your mindset or plans? So, what! life is what we make it. Enjoy a happy, peaceful Christmas.

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Natural gift ideas CLAIR WHITTY

THROW your arms around your loved ones this Christmas time, give the gift of wellness. At Natural Health Store we have lots of gift ideas for you and your family, available in store and online.

A hamper is always a great idea and we have a lovely selection for you to choose from. For example, we have Coffee Lover, Tea Lover, Incense Lover, or Fitness Fanatic. For the foodies in your

life, we have Vegan, Dairy Free, No Added Sugar, and Gluten Free hampers too. Or we can put together a bespoke hamper for you. You can choose, or we can guide you through all the exciting product ranges we have so that you have the perfect gift for your loved one packed up and ready to go.

We’ve a huge variety of gem stones, incense sticks, aromatherapy oils, fragrance oils, oil burners, backflow burners, and electric diffusers too. If you’re finding it difficult to choose your favourite aromatherapy oil, take a look at Tisserand Aromatherapy Gift Packs, they are great value,

and there are several gift sets to choose from.

For something totally different take a look at the Aroma-Clock Ultrasonic Diffuser. You can create a calming or reviving atmosphere in your home or workplace, and it also functions as a stylish alarm clock and Bluetooth speaker. I think it’s a great idea.

We have lots of body care products to choose from for him or for her. There’s the Irish-made Holos natural active skincare, this is vegan, handmade, and cruelty free.

Tisserand Mindful Moments Bath Set with Real Calm Bath Oil and Real Calm Massage Oil, is the perfect gift to help someone relax and unwind.

Tisserand Sleep Better Pillow Mist is an ideal gift for the bad sleeper in the family.

Who doesn’t love chocolate?

Give a box of Booja Booja chocolates - there are several flavours to choose from. My favourite is Almond Salted Caramel. They’re organic, dairy, gluten, and dairy free.

If you really can’t make up your mind, we have gift vouchers too. So why not throw your arms around your loved one this Christmas with a gift from Natural Health Store.

Call in to see us or check us out on www. naturalhealthstore.ie Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie

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Feature

The enthusiasm of Christmas Eve

CHRISTMAS has been part of all our lives as far back as we can remember. We can all remember the trepidation, the nervousness and that sleepless Christmas eve night waiting for the big man in the red coat to comes down that chimney, and leave under the tree that one thing you have always wished for. The customs and

cultures surrounding Christmas has changed down throughout the years.

In the old days, children were usually charged with the responsibility of gathering the Yule-tide decorations and finding a holly bush loaded with berries was considered very lucky.

Holly is a symbol commonly associated with Christmas

and has been used in Yuletide celebrations for almost two thousand years.

To the Druids, it was holly’s evergreen nature that made it special. They believed that it remained green to help keep the earth beautiful when the other trees shed their leaves. It was also their custom to wear it in their hair when they ventured

into the forests to watch the priests collecting mistletoe. Holly was also once used for protection, and in ancient times, people would decorate doors and windows with it, in hopes that it would capture, or at least dissuade, any evil spirits before they could enter the house.

While Mistletoe isn’t very

prevalent in Ireland, it can be found, and it was held in very high regard by our ancestors. In the Celtic language, Mistletoe means “All Heal.” It was believed to have all sorts of miraculous qualities including the power of healing diseases, banning evil spirits, bringing good luck and bestowing great blessings. In fact, even enemies who happened to meet beneath a Mistletoe in the forest would lay down their arms, exchange a friendly greeting, and keep a truce until the following day.

From this old custom grew the practice of suspending Mistletoe over a doorway or in a room as a token of good will and peace to all.

There are many superstitions associated with Christmas Eve. It was once believed that on Christmas Eve, an angel stands on every spike of the holly leaves.

It was also said that the Good People would come in out of the cold to find shelter in the holly branches and that the mischief of the evil spirits was suspended for this Holy Night. One lovely belief is that honey bees celebrate the Nativity by waking up from their winter sleep and humming a song of praise to Christ. Unfortunately, only those who have led a blameless life could hope to hear their song.

Now the songs we hear on Christmas are somewhat different. The midnight mass is the final port of call for

some after they have had a few ‘beers’ or as friary Tuck might say nectar of the honey bees from his brew, he and his band of merry men enjoyed. The revelers’ sing song on the way home from their night on the ‘tiles’ will not be ‘O Holy Night’ but more like ‘Oh What a Night’.

And the friendly greeting under mistletoe can carry on well after the midnight hour and hopefully those involved make it home for the turkey.

In the old days, people believed that animals celebrated the arrival of Christ and that the cows in the cattle-sheds and the deer in the forests went down on their knees at midnight. Others believed that animals were able to speak like humans on Christmas Eve - but it was bad luck to try and listen in! Now I am sure I did see a couple of the village ‘donkeys’ down on both knees crying ‘Oh god’ as they tried to get out what they joyfully put in their bellies earlier in the evening, some how I think that could be where this Irish Superstition may have come from.

All joking aside Christmas is the time of year we tend to leave all our cares and worries aside for the festive period. Maybe we should have a Christmas year festivity rather than just a week?

Then we could have peace and good will for all no matter what day of the week, year it is.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Merry Christmas From Newpark Shopping Centre

The night I almost scored on Ollie THE night I almost scored on Ollie The housing estate, when I was a boy, was surrounded by fields. This safe environment granted freedom to frolic and play. Paddy Phelan, John ‘Sundown’ Phelan and Danny McEvoy owned these swards.

The Phelan brothers used good farm husbandry to rotate crops of cereals and vegetables. This practice allowed the corncrake and the cuckoo, now absent friends, to prosper. The potato crop was a boon to young males since it offered opportunity for picking ‘spuds’. If hard and tedious work, the accumulation of three or four half crowns eased aching backs.

Danny Mac’s was left to nature. Wild flowers and thistles flourished. Cattle, horses, greyhounds freely roamed.

Rabbits and hares proliferated.

Naturally, children from Newpark and the surrounding estates of Johnswell Road, Ossory Park, Assumption Place and Ballybought Street traversed the field in search of adventure.

Likewise it was a bonus to GAA supporters, who used the route as a shortcut to Nowlan Park.

Going through the field, you might meet Danny or his sibling Mickey. The McEvoys were intelligent, knowledgeable men. If you were willing to lis-

ten, they would enlighten you on aspects of nature and the animal kingdom. Alas, we were young and paid scant attention.

There was only one rule to be observed when accessing their domain. If you opened a gate, you were expected to close it.

We were unaffected by this stipulation since we clambered over barred gates and wire fencing, Crossing Mac’s, heading to the Park, was a regular occurrence. Here the hurling heroes

of our age were on view. Having attended the 1963 All Ireland Final, with my father and my brother Joe, I considered myself a connoisseur. Youthful arrogance defies comprehension.

That time, most club matches took place in the Park. Since the gates were manned by adult neighbours such as John Bergin, Martin Mulhall and Seán Phelan, free access was assured. The games enthralled and intrigued and, if I struggled with the nuances, nonetheless I

revelled in the excitement.

The Park had one other major attraction: intercounty training.

Supporters gathered to witness the Stripy Men prepare for battle. The Stand resounded with banter, cheers and applause.

I like to think players appreciated the efforts of supporters, many of whom had travelled long distances from North and South of the county. Equally, coach, Fr Tommy Maher did not subscribe to the theory that his words had to be guarded

like hurling’s ‘Third Secret of Fatima’.

Therefore, as players in a ring listened to Fr Tommy or played a practice game, a collection of children patrolled the playing surface. One night, as Ollie Walsh stood on the goal line waiting for colleagues to test his reflexes, with a bombardment of sliotars, there was a delay.

Throwing sliotars to a group of us, he said: “See can ye score.”

I was first. Taking aim, I unleashed a thunderous shot.

Heading towards the corner, it looked destined to hit the net.

Suddenly, Ollie sprang, diving full length, and turned the sliotar around the post. Getting to his feet, he smiled: “Be God, young lad, I thought you had me.”

Before we concluded, two of my friends had struck wide while the other one scored a goal. His moment of fame was dismissed out of hand. All agreed Ollie had deliberately let him score. The glory was all mine, the chap that made ‘The Prince of Goalkeepers’ dive to save.

Over many years the escapade was refined, allowing me to regale acquaintances.

Hindsight’s honesty revealed a different tale. The thunderous shot was a tame effort.

The great custodian could have reached out and caught it, comfortably. Yet Ollie, to brighten the life of a child, delivered the spectacular.

Prince of goalkeepers, prince of men.

At functions, after copious amounts of alcohol have been consumed, someone is sure to say: “Did you ever hurl yourself?’’

I look at them intently, smile, and unblushingly reply: “Did I ever tell you about the night I almost scored on Ollie?”

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Merry Christmas From Newpark Shopping Centre

News

Sacred Saturdays SATURDAY mornings, during childhood, brought freedom from classroom confines.

Two impediments, on alternate Saturdays, halted progress.

The first was Confession. Why a preteen needed to attend this service with such regularity baffled me. Attendance during teenage years was, perhaps, a tad more necessary. Reciting my misdemeanours, I appreciated the darkened box. Always did so until a longtime cleric of the parish interrupted “Bless me, Father” with “Hello, Frankie, how are you?” Never again, I pledged, as I regained the daylight.

The second impediment was a haircut. Like confession, the twice monthly trip to the barber seemed a smidge excessive.

Neither my sins nor my hair, I thought, needed such minute attention.

The family barber of choice was John Finn. Making my way, I clutched a ‘tanner’ for the haircut and ‘thruppence’ for a treat afterwards. Distractions multiplied as I neared the destination. MacTiernan’s sweet shop had a collection of exotic confectionery. Daly’s ensured a vast array of comic books were visible through the window.

The Mascot was full of creamy delights.

Entry into the barber shop seemed a visit back in time, even

in the 1960s. This emporium was old fashioned. The brightly lit room had, parallel to the back wall, a long timber bench polished by generations of queuing bottoms.

Ageing men crammed the shop. Squeezing in, you waited, patiently. Talk and cigarette smoke engulfed the room.

Hurling chat dominated. Here I first heard of Jimmy Langton and relished the exploits of the county’s most potent goal scorer, Sam Carroll.

Two high-backed chairs, for clients, fronted mirrors. Shelves along the wall contained jars of Brylcreem, various hair oil preparations, combs, scissors, wigs and other paraphernalia of the trade. Gazing at the scarcity of hair on seated heads, you would imagine the visit would be a quick one. Not a chance!

John Quinn was a perfectionist who took particular pride in his work. Each head got the full treatment. Clippers and scissors were wielded expertly, with a step back, a slight adjustment, until the tonsorial result satisfied the master. Young or old, the cut was the same, short back and sides, no deviation.

Adjustable seating had yet to discover John Street. So children sat perched on a board placed across the arms of the chair. On completion, a generous amount of oil was massaged into the scalp prior to the final comb.

If nothing else, it kept flying insects at bay.

Departing, anxious to spend the thruppence, I would recall my mother’s prophesy that I was bound for Borstal. I laughed to think, if it was to be, I had the haircut for it.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

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Much More Than Words THIS WEEK, in our look at the recently published book of poetry and prose

by The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, we feature the work of Niamh Holohan, Richard Holland and Tom Kiernan. Thanks to T.A.S.K, j.bs photography, and Steve Payne for photos and art.

If ever a book deserved the award for ‘The Perfect Title’ surely that accolade must go to a new compilation of poetry Much More Than Words.

Indeed its very title describes comprehensively the diversity of the treasures to be discovered within its covers.

This volume of carefully crafted poems, interspersed with prose and enhanced with well-chosen

Niamh Holohan

images, is the second collection produced by The Involvement Centre Kilkenny and the first in a joint venture with The Recovery College.

The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to promote the work of The Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, and so, will publish a selection of their work over the coming months.

Richard Holland

‘Much More Than Words’ can be purchased at the following Kilkenny outlets: Bargain Books, The Butterslip Khans Bookshop, James’ Street & The Book Centre, High Street.

Price: €10

Tom Kiernan

Abstract

Lockdown

Prodigal’s Return

Oh I long to drink the topaz waters of those enchanted crystal Streams where Sages dwell Let me muse and dream by those waters.

May mythology penetrate our minds and bring Us into a world of song And melodies.

We will not conceal ourselves or fear condemnation or Confinement for we are no longer imprisoned.

The virus came when ye were young And we were getting old The world came to a standstill Our lives were put on hold We could no longer visit you Or even hold your hand No coffee in our favourite spots Travel was completely banned Now the cause of this upheaval Wasn’t war or floods or strife It was no great tsunami That caused great loss of life ‘Twas called Corona Virus Which did its deadly work unseen And the experts who know these things Simply called it Covid 19!

The schools the bars the shops were closed All trade was told to cease How could such a tiny bug Bring the whole world to its knees Some experts would say one thing Other experts disagreed While the carers on the front line Were our heroes in our hour of need Our chief Medical adviser In his “Returning Officer” chair Relayed the previous day’s statistics How many? Age? and where?

The figures they kept coming Our minds couldn’t take it in The Curve they said must flatten This virus cannot win How we miss our trips to Dublin And our visits down to Clare We miss your smiling faces And the happy meals we used to share Oh for the simple pleasure Of a great big family hug But for now that is forbidden All because of this deadly bug Now all the while the weeks pass by We remain at home and hoping The day will come when we meet again With laughter fun and joking And when at last the bug is past Though its deaths were far too many We’ll thank the Lord when we hear these words Hello Grandad! Hello Nanny!

Prodigal’s Return The ferry from France churning into Rosslare Harbour; from the bar I watch the pale silhouette of coast shunt closer: the hotel lights, the dock and the windows of houses scattered like campfires across a misty expanse of twilight.

My father’s huge embrace and I unsure in the coordinates of language and of place.

I pile my backpack into the boot of the car and we are off, into the dark inland evening of a week before Christmas.

At the Fighting Cocks we stop and go inside to the public bar and are stared at by locals.

We look out of place even for visitors, conspiratorial, intrusive: I in my boots and denims and my father in his suit.

We finish our drinks quickly and head on northwards, chatting like old friends reunited. The darkened countryside slips by in the misty headlights on fields, ditches and wayside houses.

We pass through towns lit up for Christmas: Carlow, Portlaoise, Tullamore, Mullingar, and in the car the vague smell of turf smoke from somewhere, taking me back; forever taking me back; the homecoming as it seemed back then, the homecoming that never could be, ever again.

Last night he dreamt of all that he desired and His face shone like the metallic moon.

I hear thunder beating its drum and Wolves howl like wailing children.

Oh come away with me and claim your Liberty so let us prophesise with epic visions And assuage our wounds and We will become one. Channel your energy let it speak to you. We shall gaze upon that unicorn dust, so pure and undefiled.

An eye stares forth through a looking mirror Light dispels the wicca’s curse that ravaged men’s souls.

Majestic omnipotent one, transport me To rugged bloody streams which pierce the heart.

The crucifixion begins taking me to an ethereal realm.

A crumbling empire binds me to a tomb.

Trees are terror stricken.

Frozen paths are petrified.

The storm rages and Poisoned minds long for love and all that is sacred, unholy blessed and damned be still and just listen to silent tears that glisten life’s perpetual dance deepens man’s heart becomes haunted by their nocturnal past where the darknesss lurks Noon is untainted.

The light rises like incense and a molten rainbow.

Niamh Holohan

Richard Holland

Tom Kiernan

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Picturespecial special Picture

t u o Ab Out &

WITH

Dannryt Laha

Who’s hoping this photo will make him famous

Saorlaith, Eadaoin and Odhrin Purcell looking forward to Christmas

Aishling Armitage and her dog dexter

Reidi Cody with a beautiful smile

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Picturespecial special Picture

Kilkenny artist Jean Brett exhibiting for Yulefest on the parade

Uncle and nephew Charlie and Ger Finan

Adam and Roisin Gargan

The Hayes family

The Aylward’s from Mullinavat enjoying Yulefest

A little bit of winter wonderland at Kilkenny castle

Happy Shamrock fans the Grant family

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

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Recruitment

Are you game for Top of the Class?

Play, learn, and have fun with the new Irish board game Top of the Class, set to be at the top of everyone’s Christmas list this year

TWO friends with strong Kilkenny links have launched an exciting new Irish board game, Top of the Class, ahead of the busy Christmas season. The game incorporates family fun and learning. Suitable for the whole family from age six to 99, the new general knowledge and trivia board game will teach players a thing or two and bring back some childhood memories for those big kids in the household!

The game covers core school subjects in an enjoyable and often unpredictable way with a combination of general knowledge, the process of elimination, out of box thinking, gameplay and strategy. Players must navigate around the board, avoiding hazards and a visit to the principal’s office. The whole family can play, learn, and have fun together, but who will make it to the Top of the Class?

Top of the Class was in-

spired by a summer working trip when the two school friends worked in a hotel in the United States. The friends quickly realised that families would bring board games to the hotel to play throughout their holiday. Realising their popularity, the two friends decided to create their own board game with an Irish twist. That summer, the board game, Top of the Class was born.

During lockdown the pair got back to work to make the game market ready. Top of the Class is now on shelves for the Christmas market of 2021. Created, designed, and manufactured in Ireland, Top of the Class is now available to buy from www.topoftheclassgame.com and in Eason’s, The Art and Hobby Shop and Cogs the Brain shop. The founders, Eamon and Niall are hoping Top of the Class will make the top of everyone’s Christmas list this year to play, learn and have fun.

Top of the Class co-creator Eamon Fennelly said, “During our research and testing Top of the class was showcased in several primary schools in Ireland, the game

was well received by both teachers and pupils. We were delighted to see that families really enjoyed playing the game too. We are excited to bring

Top of the Class to the Irish market. It’s wonderful to feel sense of achievement when you see the final product on a shelf. It has been a worthwhile

journey, especially now seeing it in shops across Ireland. Top of the Class is a board game the whole family can play while creating memories together.”

Available from www.topoftheclassgame.com. RRP €34.95

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

News Community Group

Polska Szkoła im. św. Jana Pawła II w Kilkenny POLSKA Szkoła im. św. Jana Pawła II w Kilkenny is a wonderful example of how to keep your heritage, history and your native mother tongue alive when you make another country your home.

They invite you to learn Polish, knowledge about Poland and Polish history at the Polish

School in Kilkenny. They provide intimate conditions, textbooks, teaching aids and qualified staff and approach each student individually, taking into account their knowledge, skills and predispositions.

Recently, the Intercontinental Recitation Competition “Word Poland” was held.

The competition was intended for students of Polish and Polish schools abroad, and organized by the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland under the patronage of the First Lady of the Republic of Poland.

In the school, national and continental stages, the participants had the task of present-

ing works by selected authors: Cyprian Kamil Norwid, Krzysztof Kamil Baczński, Ignacy Krasicki and Maria Pawlikowska – Jasnorzewska.

The Polish St. John Paul II School in Kilkenny was represented by Martyna, a sixthgrade student, who recited Krzysztof Kamil Baczyński’s

poem “Song of Happiness”.

Our talented student represents the school every year in recitation competitions, winning the highest laurels for us. Unfortunately, this time we did not manage to reach the very top, but we are very proud of her and thank her that once again she became an ambassador of our Polish school, this time on the international and even intercontinental arena.

Martyna received a commemorative diploma and a modest gift from the hands of the director Jolanta Górnicka.

CONGRATULATIONS! The school and Principal Jolanta organize wonderful activities that all ages enjoy weekly. Last week’s activity was the getting to know ‘Old Polish fortune, superstitions and spells.’ And Andrezk’s treasure and fortune Hatred is an old-fashioned way of knowing an uncertain future. It was believed that there are days when the spirits of the ancestors return to earth and reveal the hidden mystery of the future.

Andrzejk’s fortune has survived until today and so far, they are enjoying its weak popularity, so they are a good opportunity to do a little for tradition and a little for fun, half a joke-half seriously, to get to know the Old Polish fortune, superstitions and spells.

This year marks 100 years since the birth of a man who “saw the future”, a visionary

who predicted the existence of m. In. Internet, tablet, smartphones, 3D printers and pointed out the punctured dangers of modern technology. Of course, it’s about the representative of the genre of science fiction Stanisławie Lemie.

This is how our older students got acquainted with the project funded by the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Dublin: I SAW THE FUTURE ORGANIZATION OF LEMA STATE UNIVERSITY. Students for S’ creation, Lema was introduced into the fascinating world of technology, robots, space, they could run into the future and dream of it in a unique, bold way. The World of Robot Fairy, a material the students worked with taught in a logical, transparent and understandable way to explain language intricacies and to shake up ethical dilemmas regarding the use of technology.

Speaking to Mr. Martin Brennan, Hon Polish Consul based in Kilkenny, congratulated the staff and the parents for all the work they do throughout the year, he also said the students must also receive some credit for their dedication to their heritage, history and language and would like to see the school grow year on year with the help of local communities.” It is later in life when the Students will be delighted that they took this opportunity to remember their Polish ways and language”

Community Group Translated by Alexandra Laza from original in Romanian by Viorel Ploesteanu

The day when Romania is beautiful, loved and respected

THE first event organized by the new Ambassador of Romania in Ireland, His Excellency, Mr. Laurențiu Mihai Ștefan, happened to be on Romania’s National Day. Eager to meet people from the Romanian-speaking communities settled in Ireland, Mr. Ambassador has had a rich career in the few months he has been in this position, and one of his visits took place in Kilkenny, where the Romanian community is numerous and very involved in the social and economic life of the city, being appreciated by officials. Perhaps impressed by this, the Ambassador decided to break the pattern and organize this important event outside Dublin, choosing a beautiful city. The place where the event took place was a chic theatre in the Langton’s House Hotel.l After the singing of the two state anthems, Romania and Ireland, recorded by the Madrigal Choir especially for the Romanian Embassy in Ireland the first speaker was the Mayor of Kilkenny, Mr. Andrew McGuinness, who had only words of praise, not only about Romanians in community, but also about their culture, which he knows closely, visiting Romania several times. He was followed by Martin Brennan,

President of the Twilight Community Group, who, exemplifying the symbolism of the three flags behind him, Romania, Ireland and the European Union, the contribution of culture and civilization to the enrichment of society, and the organization it represents is concerned with this, the inclusion and enhancement of all its members, regardless of ethnicity.

Senator Gerry Horkan, as the representative of the RomanianIrish friendship group in the EU Parliament, and Mr. Eugene Downes, Cultural Director in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, spoke about the cultural relations between the two countries.

On behalf of the Romanian community in Kilkenny, Liviu Iftime shared a few words, and he did it with a lot of feeling and responsibility, which was instrumental for the good organization and development of the event.

Aleka and her jazz band, performing with excellent technique and personality in the jazz register. In the last part, we enjoyed an admirable performance by the violinist Tola Custy, who gave the Romanians, on National Day, a moment of Irish music.

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Dine Me

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Food & Drink

Come

With

Irish cream tiramisu

Method STEP 1 Separate the egg whites and yolks into two large bowls. Whisk the whites until stiff. Add the sugar to the yolks and whisk again (no need to clean first) until thick and foamy – this will take about 5 mins. Whisk the mascarpone and cream liqueur into the egg yolks until you can’t see any streaks

of cheese.

Carefully fold the whites into the mascarpone mixture with a large metal spoon to keep in as much air as possible.

STEP 2 Get your serving dish ready (ours was 20 x 15 cm). Pour the coffee into a shallow dish and dip in a few sponge fingers at a time, turning them for a few seconds until they are nicely soaked, but

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 1 hr and 25 mins Serves: 6-8

fan/gas 8. Add the oil to a large flameproof baking tray and put in the oven for the oil to heat up.

Make soggy potatoes a thing of the past with this clever recipe. You’ll end up with roasties that have a fluffy middle and golden, crisp exterior.

STEP 2 Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil, tip in the potatoes and the peelings (to impart extra flavour) and simmer for 8-10 mins. Drain the potatoes and discard the peelings. Leave to steam-dry for 15 mins, then return the potatoes to the pan, put the lid on and gently shake to lightly rough up the edges.

• 4 tbsp rapeseed oil • 1½ kg Maris Piper potatoes , cut into quarters, peelings reserved • 50g butter • ½ bunch of lemon thyme • 6 garlic cloves , lightly bashed • 1 tbsp sea salt

Method STEP 1 Heat the oven to 220C/200C

This classic bourbon cocktail takes a festive turn with a splash of orange juice and edible gold glitter - perfect for Christmas parties Ingredients • crushed ice • 50ml bourbon • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice • 1 tbsp fresh orange juice • ½ tbsp sugar syrup • 2 slices of oranges To decorate • honey • gold edible glitter

STEP 2 Fill each glass with crushed ice. Put the bourbon into a cocktail shaker with the lemon juice, orange juice and sugar syrup. Shake and strain into each glass, and serve with an orange slice and short straws.

coffee). If you want a pretty finish, you can pipe on the final cream layer. not soggy. Layer these into the dish until you have used half the biscuits, then evenly spread over half of the creamy mixture. Using the coarse side of the grater, grate over most of the chocolate, then repeat the sponge and cream layers (you should use up all the

STEP 3 Cover and chill for a few hours or overnight. This can now be kept in the fridge for up to two days. To serve, dust with cocoa powder and grate over the remaining chocolate.

Crispiest ever roast potatoes Ingredients

whiskey sour

Method STEP 1 Using a small paintbrush (or your finger), brush some honey around the rim of two tumblers and use another small paintbrush to stick edible gold glitter around each.

You can make this no-cook tiramisu ahead to save on time when hosting a party. Made with Irish cream liqueur, it’s a truly grown-up dessert.

Ingredients • 4 eggs • 100g golden caster sugar • 500g tub mascarpone • 100ml Irish cream liqueur (we used Baileys coffee flavour) • 300ml strong coffee, made with 2 tbsp coffee granules and 300ml boiling water • 175g sponge fingers • 25g dark chocolate • 2 tsp cocoa powder

Winter

STEP 3 Remove the tray from the oven and put directly on your hob over a medium heat. Add the butter to the hot oil and, using tongs, add the potatoes to the tray, one

Mulled

wine cocktail Ingredients • 100g/4oz light muscovado sugar • 1 star anise • 1 cinnamon stick • 4 cloves • 150ml water • 1 lemon • 2 clementines • 150ml Cointreau • 750ml/ 1¼pint bottle light red wine , such as Beaujolais • Twist of orange zest and a star anise, to serve Method STEP 1 Put 100g light muscovado sugar in a pan with 1 star anise, 1 cinnamon stick, 4 cloves and 150ml water. Bring slowly to the boil, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

STEP 2 Simmer for 2 mins, then pour into a large jug and leave to cool. Add 1 lemon and 2 clementines, both thinly sliced, to the jug along with 150ml Cointreau and a 750ml bottle light red wine, such as a Beaujolais. Stir well, then cover and chill for at least 2 hrs or overnight if you can.

by one, carefully turning them in the fat, and leaving a little space between them. Reduce the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Nestle the lemon thyme in amongst the

potatoes, along with the garlic.

Sprinkle over the sea salt and return to the oven to roast for 1 hr, turning every once in a while, until golden and crisp.

STEP 3 Serve chilled or over ice, with a twist of orange zest and a star anise. If you’d like to serve a traditional warm mulled wine, there’s no need to chill – simply warm through without boiling and serve in heatproof glasses.

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TV & Streaming

5

Hunt now on for new James Bond

dramas to watch now on Amazon

Benedict Cumberbatch stars in this 2021 biopic about English artist, inventor, entrepreneur and caretaker Louis Wain. Set at the end of the 19th century, it follows a man who, after taking in a stray kitten, creates surreal cat paintings that made him wold famous. They also seem to reflect his own declining sanity. A feel-good drama with a typically gripping central performance from Cumberbatch, this warm portrait is filled with whimsy, even if it’s a little uneven.

A sublime anthology that doesn’t drop the ball across its five films.

Small Axe (2020) is a collection of distinct stories about the lives of West Indian immigrants in London from the ‘60s to the ‘80s.

They’re all directed by Steve McQueen, who’s working at his exquisite best (when doesn’t he?), crafting stories such as courtroom drama Mangrove, based on the 1971 trial of the Mangrove Nine and starring Black Panther’s Letitia Wright. Take a seat and devour this massive achievement.

THE search for a new James Bond is on, now that Daniel Craig pictured) has hung up his Walther PPK. No Time To Die marked the final film of Craig’s tenure which means that we will see a new James Bond... eventually.

There’s been little word as to who is in contention and as our new James Bond list shows, there are a lot of great actors out there who could take on the 007 mantle. But, for some, time isn’t on their side. The likes of Tom Hardy, who has always been a favou-

rite and currently tops our list with nearly a thousand votes, is 44 so if he were to do it then something would have to happen soon.

Well, we now have some information about the search and things are happening but very slowly. According to MGM boss Pamela Abdy, who has been speaking to The Hollywood Reporter about her career, the search for a new James Bond is currently “wide open” but talks have begun between the producers.

“We’ve had very early

preliminary conversations with Barbara [Broccoli] and Michael [Wilson], but we wanted Daniel to have his last hurrah.”

No Time To Die made the quick dash from the big screen to Premium VOD recently so Craig’s “last hurrah” is nearing its end, which means that the hype machine for a new James Bond is almost certain to start soon.

Whatever happens, it’s likely that we will get a full reboot for the franchise but it would be good to see some current

characters make the shift over.

Continuity hasn’t exactly been a forte with the franchise — Dame Judi Dench moving from Pierce Brosnan’s Bond to Craig’s was a shrewd move but didn’t exactly make sense — but introducing the likes of Lashana Lynch’s Nomi and Ana de Armas’ Paloma, two great characters, and not revisiting them again wouldn’t feel right. *No Time To Die is available to watch on Prime Video now.

PlayStation to bring in streaming NETFLIX-STYLING gaming may be coming to the PlayStation 5 next year. News has leaked that Sony plans to merge PlayStation Plus and PS Now subscriptions into one service. The move could be an attempt to become more competitive with Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.

In an apparent attempt to

compete with Xbox Game Pass, Sony plans to launch a similar subscription service next year.

According to PlayStation insiders speaking with Bloomberg, the service, codenamed ‘Sparticus’, will bundle PlayStation Plus with PS Now. Currently, the two services offer different features. PlayStation Plus is around €60 per year

(or €9 per month) and gives subscribers discounts, and a collection of free games with at least two new titles added every month. It also allows online multiplayer gaming.

Sony’s PS Now is its cloud gaming service with the same rates as PlayStation Plus. It was first launched in 2014 with

game streaming as its only option and at the time playing from the cloud, even with a very high-speed connection, was hardly worth the subscription price.

Since then, Sony has vastly improved the streaming quality and recently added an option to download and play games natively.

Sound Of Metal scored a bunch of Oscar nominations, back in 2019, including best picture and best actor for the outstanding Riz Ahmed. (It won in two categories: best sound and best film editing.)

He plays Ruben, a punk- metal drummer who unfortunately starts to lose his hearing. As well as struggling with a drug addiction, Ruben is forced to settle into his new life in the deaf community and to learn American Sign Language. The film’s stunning sound design immerses you in Ruben’s suspenseful story and the experiences of those around him.

If you’re into the dark-things-happen-at-boarding-schools genre, then Selah And The Spades (2019) might be the subject to sign up for. A senior leads a faction called the Spades who sell drugs to other students. But Selah’s about to graduate, so must find the right candidate to carry on her legacy.

Shot beautifully and guided by debut director Tayarisha Poe’s unique lens, this is a taste of even greater things to come.

Shia LaBeouf wrote the screenplay for this 2019 autobiographical movie about a child actor and his relationship with his father. We follow Otis, who’s traumatised after days on set accompanied by his father, a former rodeo clown.

LaBeouf actually plays the character inspired by his father, giving Honey Boy even more psychological layers. This is fascinating, cinematic therapy from a singular perspective.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

AGM Some of the Clara AGMS have rearranged dates and will now take place online due to rising Covid numbers. The main club AGM will now take place online at 8pm this Friday 10th Dec. This will be followed by the Camogie AGM on Sunday 12th December at 7pm. The LGFC meeting will be held on Monday 13th Dec. at 8pm and finally the Bord na nÓg AGM will be held on Tuesday 14th December at 8pm. Please keep an eye on the Clara GAA Club Website for any further changes.

U13 FOOTBALL The Clara U13 Football journey came to an end on Sunday afternoon in Graignamanagh when they found the host club too strong in the Roinn C county semi final. As ever the boys gave it their best efforts but lost out to a well drilled Graig outfit.

CAMOGIE The long awaited 2020 U16 county final against St.Lachtains, Freshford, which was to have been played in Paulstown on Sunday, was once again postponed. This was due to a bereavement in Freshford and sympathies are extended to the St. Lachtains Club for that.

BOXING Congratulations to Aidan O’Connell of Clara who won the All Ireland semi-final of the Boy 1, 65 kg competition at the weekend and all the best in the All Ireland Final this coming weekend. This is to take place in the National Stadium and will be a great experience for Aidan. Go get ‘em Aidan and enjoy the day!

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this weeks club lotto ( Nov 30th) Numbers Drawn were 12, 17, 21, 28 Bonus 16 Next weeks Jackpot will be €9,200 (Dec 7th) www. oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw: 1. Shiela Lyster c/o Hugh Mahon 2. Madeline Geoghegan c/o Paddy Green 3. Seamus McEvoy 4. Paddy Cullen c/o Ann Cullen 5. Kay O’Halloran c/o Michael O’Halloran 6. The Sunday Six 7. Catherine Murphy c/o Mick Nolan 8. Willie O’Neill c/o Online 9. John Doyle c/o Online 10.

Lisa Buckley c/o Online Our Club Lotto is Sponsored by www.perfectoprint.ie Intermediate Football Champions 2021 O’Loughlin Gaels 3-7 to 1-7 Glenmore O’Loughlin Gaels are the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Intermediate Football Champions for 2021.

After disappointingly dropping

from the senior ranks just a year ago the lads put it together last Wednesday evening at Thomastown to deny Glenmore a brace of intermediate titles.

Goals from Captain Eddie Kearns, Anthony Forrestal and one from Huw Lawlor to seal the deal in the closing moments helped the Gaels to a 6 point victory. A regenerated full back line with an eye for scoring goals.

Andy Comerford has developed a knack in turning our backs into scoring forwards ¦.

AIB Leinster GAA Jnr Club Football O’Loughlin Gaels 1-10 to 0-10 Clongeen (Wexford) Just four days after claiming the Intermediate Title the lads got a win in the Leinster Junior Club Football Championship with a hard fought win over Wexford Champions Clongeen after extra time last Saturday morning The team looked liked it had done enough when Cian Loy slotted a goal on the 42nd minute, and Sammy Johnson added a point, to go a point ahead 1-5 to 0-7 just before the 2nd half Waterbreak. With no score coming from either side as the final quarter approached it’s end, it seemed the Gaels were coming away with a famous win.

Clongeen however delayed that outcome when they pointed in the 59th minute to level the game and force extra time and a delayed start to Mark Bergin’s stag night! The Gaels added five more points to Clongeens two during the extra time period ensuring the win and place in the Leinster semi-final. Well done all Team Sponsors : Pat Robert Carroll CAMOGIE COUNTY CHAMPIONS O’Loughlin Gaels 3-9 Carrickshock 3-7 Sunday in Kilmanagh After a hard fought contest during which the lead exchanged between the teams on several occasions it was Danielle Quigley’s goal at the games end that earned this fine group a well deserved win and the title of County Champions for 2021. Well done to team and mentors Team Sponsors : MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre CHRISTMAS HAMPER APPEAL Mary Pierce and Kilkenny Helping The Homeless - CLG are appealing for donations to make up hampers to give to homeless families for Christmas.

O’Loughlin Gaels Club House will act as a drop off centre for all donations. Running for the next 3 weeks, Items required are : Festive Foods - Mince Pies - Christmas Cakes - Minerals Custard - Sponge Trifle - Juices - Gravy - White Sauce - Tea bags - Sugar - Sweets - Biscuits .

To arrange drops please contact by phone or text to Mary at 085 707 5348 or Ruth at 086 891 9312

CHRISTMAS TREE SALE Shop local and support our sponsors this Christmas. Get your Christmas Tree at Phelans on the New Orchard Rd. Sign in as a supporter of O’Loughlin Gaels at the door and the club will benefit from your purchase.

O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club are grateful to Shane Phelan for his continued support again this Christmas. Brilliant value at €30, €40 and €50 ... Pick from pre-cut or bring the kids and walk out onto the farm and pick one to cut.

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS In the lead up to Christmas we encourage everyone to support local business as they have supported our club throughout the year

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 4pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 3pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO November 29th prize fund was: €5,600. Jackpot: €3,600.

Numbers drawn: 2, 15, 20 and 26, bonus no 5. No winner and one match three winner: Sean Minogue.

Promoters prize: B. Troy.

Five lucky dips of €20 each: The 2 of Us, Joseph Coady, Mary & Catherine, R&R&H&T Comerford, Ann Healy. Next draw takes place on Monday, December 6 in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

URLINGFORD ON THE MOVE WALKING TRACK Works for the walking track are ongoing in the clubgrounds.

Therefore the grounds are closed to the public during the day. The field will reopen as per normal for evening training sessions.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Courses for 2022: BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5: BTEI is currently recruiting for the Health-Care QQI Level 5 course which will be commencing in January 2022. If anyone is interested in completing this course you can contact the Mill FRC on 056 8838466 LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4: LTI is recruiting for the new programme 2022. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact the centre for an expression of interest form.

Weekly Food Donations: We are now working with “Food Cloud” to ensure that unsold food from supermarkets does not go to waste. Every week we receive food donations which we distribute in Urlingford and surrounding areas. If you, or anyone you know, would benefit

from this, please make contact with the Centre.

Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine on 056 8838466.

Counselling Services: At the centre our low cost Counselling Services, include One-to-One, Family & Teens aged twelve and upwards.

General counselling: bereavement, stress, anxiety and depression.

Other counselling services available: drug, substance and gambling addiction.

Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of the centre’s counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre.

Contact Sue on 056 8838466.

For full details of the services we provide, please call in, or alternatively, visit our Facebook page Millfrc or website www. millfrcurlingford.com or contact us on 056 8838466 URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT Draw takes place every Sunday night in the Urlingford Arms Hotel.

This week’s winner was Catherine Corbett who won €562.

Tickets on sale in aid of Clomantagh Squash Club for next week’s draw. Get your envelope now in participating businesses in town for only €2.

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail. com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

LACHTAIN CHURCH, ARTS AND HERITAGE CENTRE. Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre will continue to open at weekends until Christmas. A wide selection of local crafts is available to purchase including knitted garments and toys, wood turning, origami crafts, paintings, soaps and local literature.

Deliver your Christmas presents in newly designed Freshford souvenir bags only available at Ionad Lachtain. Don’t forget to shop local this Christmas.

While visiting, take time to view the Prendergast (nursing) and Barnaville (print) Collections in the museum. The displays include a newly arrived famine pot and a unique Freshford Cavalry medal dating from 1796.During opening hours Saturday, (11.00 a.m. to 4.00

p.m.) and Sunday (12 noon to 4.00 p.m.), the east window in the Church will be lit up with a newly installed lighting system presented to Ionad Lachtain by the late Gerry O’Reilly and the Acorn Club.

ST.VINCENT de PAUL SOCIETY The annual Christmas collection for the St. Vincent de Paul Society will be taken up before masses outside Tulla and Freshford churches next weekend.

Alternatively, donors can make a donation in the blue SVP envelope provided to each household recently by An Post.

These envelopes can be left anytime in the parish collection box in the porch at Freshford Church or in the collection basket at Tulla Church.

DEATH The death took place last week of Mrs Mary Manogue, Late of Kilaree Threecastles.

The deceased who was widely known and respected in the area was predeceased by her husband John and her son Tom. Funeral mass took place on Wednesday of last week in Tulla Church followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. She is mourned by her son Mick, daughters Eileen and Mary grandchildren, sons in law, daughter in law, sister, brother, sister in law, nephew nieces and extended family to whom sympathy is extended.

BIRTHDAY Special birthday wishes go out to local lad Jordan Burke The Mills Freshford on his coming of age. Jordan who is an ardent member of Freshford Town Soccer and St. Lachtains GAA since his schoolboys days celebrated his 21st birthday at the weekend.

DAY CENTRE Freshford Day care centre continues each Wednesday at 2pm in the GAA Club rooms. The Centre had been closed since the start of the pandemic. It is hoped that all former members will return to the centre and new members are also very welcome both male and female. You will get a cup of tea and have a chat and maybe a game of bingo.

SOCCER Freshford Town had a number of teams in action over the past week The Junior side had their first game of the season when they took on St.Canices at home on Sunday morning last. The game was tied at 1-1 at the break but the home side came out winners on a 3-1 scoreline. Scorers for Freshford were Ml.Burke and Liam Hickey.

In the schoolboys section The U13 boys had a 4-2 victory over Dean Celtic recently with goals from Jack Marnell(2) Charlie Kavanagh and Ml.Hickey. The U15 boys defeated Stoneyford 4-1 recently also with goals

coming from Cian Donnelly (2) and Ml. Bergin (2) Well done to the U9, U11 girls and U11 boys who were all in action recently also with some great goals been scored. Keep up the good work.

Last weekend the U13 took on Stoneyford away and came out winners on a 2-0 scoreline with goals from Cian Dalton and Charlie Kavanagh. The U15 boys beat Thomastown 4-1 at home with Ml.Bergin getting a hat trick and the other goal coming from M.J Banville. The U17 boys went down to a strong Bridge Utd side on a score of 3-1 with SeanKennedy getting the Freshford goal. The U11s were in action against Callan with some great goals also.

U8s The training sessions for U8s will resume on Saturday next at the Sportsfield at Woodview from 12noon to 1pm with Gary in charge as usual. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up.

SQUASH Well done to local man Pat Morrissey Ard Lachtain who took part in the Ulster Squash masters in Belfast last weekend and finished in 3rd place overall.

Congrats also to Brendan Murphy who also took part.

MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area.Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development Officer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie GAA NEWS St Lachtains u20 hurling side were in championship action on Sunday last when they took on Dicksboro in the opening round of the championship at Freshford. The local side came out deserving winner on the day.

WALKING GROUP A walking group has started and will continue on Thursday evening leaving the GAA clubrooms at 8pm All new members regardless so fitness levels are most welcome. It is open to all and everyone is encouraged to bring a friend along .

PARISH NEWS With attendance at Masses almost back to normal Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at

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Community & GAA Notes 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 8pm.

While the obligation to attend Sunday mass is still suspended you are encouraged to return.

At this time all safety measures remain in place which includes wearing of masks, social distancing and hand sanitising and full sanitation of the Church after every celebration The restoration of the Stations of the Cross in the Church continues with ten now completed and just four more to go . In order to continue the work you are invited to sponsor one of the stations maybe with your family or a group of your friends.

The sponsors will be included in a special roll of honour displayed in the church as a lasting legacy.

For further information re same you are asked to please contact Monsignor Kennedy PARISH NOTICE The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish Office.

Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays.

MASS CARDS Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy.

You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community alert group remind you that the annual text alert scheme membership is now due. It cost just 10 euro per phone number and you can pay membership to any committee member. If unsure or for more information please call Jacinta on 0877658671 or Anna on 0858277965 . New members are welcome and the group wish to thank you all for your continued support.

With winter upon us now and the dark evenings and long nights you are reminded to take care of yourself and take care of your elderly neighbours or friends.

HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you.

Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342. If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is

available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@ amberwomensrefuge.ie.

LIGHTING UP Freshford village is lit up for Christmas with extra lights this year and Christmas trees to be seen at different spots around the village. The lights can be seen all around the village square down to the end of Kilkenny Street ,down to Delaneys Corner ,up to the Fire Station and a beautiful tree on green over at the Church and new ones at the green at the end of Kilkenny Street. Up Bohergloss and Woodview The residents of Woodview and the Tidy Towns got together to put up lights and a Xmas tree in the estate for the first time ever The lights were turned on on Saturday evening last with a great crowd turning out for the occasion with the honor of switchig on going to the most senior resident Mrs Kathleen Doyle.

DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Thank you to everyone who came and all the traders for making out third Christmas Market a great success. The Elf Trail was well trod by the children, Santie came to wave to everyone from the back of Gerry the Elf’s tractor and two Stormtroopers stopped by to say hello. Roll on next year.

Our final event of this year take place online please join Dunnamaggin Development Group and Workhouse Union for a Community Meitheal to review the outcomes of the communityled Vision for Dunnamaggin process. Thursday, December 9th at 7 pm online. Please email rosie@callanworkhouseunion. com to receive a Zoom link for the meeting.

LOCAL DRAW Local Lotto Draw for the 29th November 2021 Winning Numbers: 17, 18, 35. No Winner.

Winners of the Draw 5 x € 30. Chloe Power (Pauline Flynn), Pauline Flynn (Pauline Flynn) ,Mervyn Bradley (Townsends),Marie Kelly ( Marie Kelly ),Clare Kelly ( Marie Kelly ) Jackpot next Week € 4000. Draw Delaneys Bar, Kells at 9pm. All welcome.

GOWRAN AC Glorious day of Athletics in Gowran Park last weekend. The sun beamed down, and the skies were a brilliant blue. So many

club volunteers, supporters and friends came out to help with the huge operation which saw more than 7000 visitors descend.

The course consisted of two fields, one a flat driving range and the second a hilly field. The hilly sections challenged the athletes and the carpet of flat short grass to the finished line was ideal for fast finishers. With the combination of terrains, it was commented on by many visitors as a ‘proper’ cross country course.

Gowran AC highlights 9th Place Medal for Billy Coogan in the U17 5000m, also gold provincial medal as part of the Leinster team. Bronze provincial medals for Conor Carroll and Robert Coogan in the U13 boys 2500m Photos on Flickr at https://www. flickr.com/photos/gowranac/ shares/K28833 There were 16 club runners in the Juvenile ages and 9 in the Novice races.

As expected, competition was fierce in all age groups. There was lots of war stories of falling, getting elbowed and getting spiked which is all part of the cross-country experience and also lots of great successes and fantastic running from everyone.

Billy Coogan in the U17 boys 500m finished 9th and his Leinster team won first so gold for Billy too. A great end for a brilliant season for Billy.

Conor Carroll and Robert Coogan in the boys U13 worked hard as a team after a difficult start and pulled themselves up 15th and 16th position. They were both on the Leinster team which came third. Their club team with Tomas Carroll, Evan Ryan, Joe Hayes and Darragh Carroll came joint 3rd but then 4th on count back. But coming 4th in Ireland out of 13 teams is an amazing result and the boys were in great spirits after the race.

The U11 Girls, Mia Kennedy and Heidi Ryan had a tumble at the start but got up and finished 123rd and 124th out of a field of 177.

Another huge field of 175 in the U11 Boys. Leinster gold medallist Aaron Carrigan was coming 3rd but a slip with 400m to go put him out of the race. Teammate MJ Carroll ran very well finishing 63rd and 2nd Kilkenny boy home.

U13 Girl, Kate Hayden, also had a strong run finishing 81st out of 160 athletes.

U15 trio, Hazel Coogan, Lucy Coomey and Alex Brennan were in fine form and again after a difficult start all worked well throughout the 3500m.

U19 Boys Matthew Holland and Cillian Dunne had a gruelling 6000m. The longer the races gets the stronger Matthew Holland gets and he was exceptionall coming 39th in a big field. Cillian just back from injuries had a fine comeback race.

In the Novice Women, Katie O’Brien was very strong finishing in 48th.

A huge field of 222 in the Novice Men’s 6000m race. Dean Rowe lead the Gowran AC men coming 61st and Johann Muller not far behind in 82nd. The men were part of the county team which came 5th and the club team was 15th.

They all agreed that the course was challenging but much easier than the hill in Thomastown last weekend.

Well done to all the athletes who competed and trained so hard over the Cross-country season.

That is the last race till 2022.

Juvenile full results at https:// www.myrunresults.com/.../ irish_life.../4268/results and Novice full results at https:// www.myrunresults.com/.../ irish_life.../4270/results MOLLY’S TEA ROOM The Christmas order book is now closed. Mince pies, fresh sponge cakes, cheesecakes and pavlovas are available to order right up to Christmas GOWRAN DEVELOPMENT The defibrillator has now been installed in the forecourt of Hennessy’s garage. It is there to be used by anyone if needed (hopefully it never will need to be used). Any one of us might need it someday so please respect it and encourage others to do the same. The second defibrillator will be installed shortly on the outside wall of Young Irelands GAA stand at the pitch. This defibrillator is provided by Young Irelands and the temperaturecontrolled storage box needed to house it safely is provided by the funds raised by the community.

It will also be available to anyone in the community to use if needed. Training on the use of the devices and CPR will be arranged shortly also.

SPORTS ROUND UP-MICHAEL O’LEARY Late drama as Brennan’s late heroics grab victory County U-21 Roinn B QuarterFinal,Young Irelands Gowran 1-19, Graigue-Ballycallan 2-12.

A thrilling and eventful U-21 clash on a lovely sunny winter afternoon in Gowran on Sunday saw Young Irelands and Jason Brennan produce late heroics with an element of good fortune - as they defeated a gallant battling Graigue-Ballycallan following a ferociously hardfought contest. With extra-time looking most likely deep into stoppage-time, Jason Brennan stepped up to take a long distance free around his own 45 metre line and about 100 metres from the opposition goal. Jason’s ambitious long range attempt had the direction, height, distance and accuracy and it was about to tail over the crossbar, but at the last moment the sliothar dipped under the crossbar and the green flag was

waved. 1-18 to 2-12. The unerring Dylan Carey (0-12 0-11 frees) added another point for good measure to complete victory and they now have home advantage once again for next Sunday’s County Semi-Final against Lisdowney(1pm throw-in). It was a keenly contested battle with terrific open hurling provided in an entertaining and enjoyable opening-half with the teams level at the interval. 0-10 to 1-7.

Defensively, they were more watertight during the secondhalf and by the 41st minute, they led 0-14 to 1-9 with Patrick Brennan, Dylan Carey(free), Killian Carey and Tommy Phelan all adding to their tally. However, Graigue-Ballycallan gained a lifeline when they were awarded a penalty in the 44th minute that was duly converted and they now took the lead. 2-9 to 0-14. The Gowran men though displayed great resilience and character throughout and during that final quarter, their defence stood up while often under intense pressure with Sean Middleton and Sean Fitzpatrick in particular superb. Dylan Carey pointed three frees in succession as they led 0-17 to 2-9 in the 47th minute, but Graigue-Ballycallan themselves replied with pointed frees in the 51st and 55th minutes to restore parity(0-17 to 2-11).

Quick goal brace qualifies Thomastown for county final Goals in quick succession saw Thomastown qualify for the County Final as they won 2-7 to 0-4, having overcome the Gowran Boys who fought gallantly to the end. A low scoring first-half saw Thomastown lead 0-4 to 0-2 at the interval, and the Gowran Boys added a pointed free within two minutes of the restart to narrow the deficit to the minimum (0-4 to 0-3).

Despite dominating possession during the opening 10 minutes of the Second Half, they couldn’t translate that possession onto the scoreboard as Thomastown added two further points by the Water Break. 0-6 to 0-3. Both goals arrived shortly afterwards and despite Young Irelands best attempts, the margin was too big a gap to claw back. The U-15s will be in County Semi-Final next Sunday Morning at 10.30am at home to Clara having won against Kilmoganny - 11-6 to 0-6 and Thomastown - 3-6 to 1-4 - to reach the Semi-Final.

Last Sunday was the final game of the year for the U-13s after defeated Barrow Rangers in the opening round of the Football Championship. Jason Brennan came to the rescue as he pulled off a point blank save to deny Graigue-Ballycallan a certain goal in the 57th minute. Points were exchanged in the 59th minute and extra-time appeared a formality until the late late drama and the manner and character of that victory will have given them

great confidence ahead of next Sunday’s County Semi-Final.

YOUNG IRELANDS TEAM: Jason Brennan (1-0 free), Charlie Fitzgerald, Cathal Darcy, Sean Fitzpatrick, Dylan Doyle, Sean Middleton, Gavin Manning, Jimmy Lennon, Tommy Phelan (0-1), Padraig Naddy(0-2), Jack Brennan (0-1), Patrick Brennan(01), Killian Carey(0-1), Dylan Carey (0-12 0-11 frees), Conor Fitzpatrick

DEVELOPMET DRAW Thank you to everyone who has purchased or sold tickets for the Club Development Draw.Once again, the Dicksboro Community has been very generous in their support of our great club, well done.

This was the Club’s Only Major Fundraiser in 2021 and all funds raised will go towards the future development plans of the club.

The draw took place on Friday in Palmerstown. Well done to Jason Dempsey and his committee for organising this event and to all the sellers and anyone who bought a ticket.

DICKSBORO CALENDER 2022 Dicksboro 2022 A3 Spiral Bound Wall Calendars now available to purchase.

A must have Christmas stocking filler featuring every single player who wore the maroon and white this past year (fingers crossed) A beautiful production, thanks to Tom Beirne, Davy Ryan, Alan Condon, Jason Dempsey and the team at Kilkenny Print and Graphics.

Limited availability so please get your order in and collect the calendar from the clubhouse on any Thursday night before Christmas. Please see all socials to purchase.

U21 B Team Our Under 21 B Team lost the County quarter final against St Lachtains on Sunday played in Freshford. Our lads battled hard throughout the sixty minutes and made a real fight of it but were unlucky to go down by two points. 2-10 to 0-14.

AGM 2021 Dicksboro held a hybrid AGM on Wednesday Night in Palmerstown. Members were given an option to view online or attend. Well done to committee members for organising this event.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results December 5th Nos: 24–15– 16– 22 Jackpot: €5600– not won Draw Prizes – €50: Ann scott c/o Ann Tynan €25 each Elsie Buggy c/o Online €25 each Gina Gaul c/o Gina Gaul €25 each Aidan Maher c/o Online €25 each Cillian Breathnach c/o online Promotors prize Paddy Grace New weeks draw 5,700 December 11th

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB Leinster SHC quarter-final Mount Leinster Rangers 0-16 Ballyhale Shamrocks 0-22 <<CRESTS>> REIGNING All- Ireland club hurling champions, Shamrocks of Ballyhale secured a semi-final berth in the Provincial series, with a hard-fought 6-point victory over Carlow kingpins, Mount Leinster Rangers at a cold and windy Netwatch Cullen Park last Saturday.

Despite coming into the tie as massive underdogs, Rangers gave a good account of themselves, considering they hadn’t been in competitive action since winning their county title on September 19th. This period of inactivity was probably one of the factors as Ballyhale came out of the traps much more sharply than their neighbours.

The Carlow side would actually open the scoring, playing against the wind in the first half, through a placed ball from cornerforward Denis Murphy. Their Kilkenny opponents hit back straight away, when Adrian Mullen took possession, before passing to the impressive Joe Cuddihy who slotted over to level. Shortly after, midfielder Brian Cody picked up a loose ball before finding the on-running Adrian Mullen who turned inside and popped over a lovely point. Cody would then register his sides 3rd score of the day, following lovely build-up play from Ronan Corcoran and captain Colin Fennelly.

Shamrocks had settled and were Richie Reid displaying all the attributes of a side handpasses who’s record outside of their county is under pressure as good as any across the island. James O’Connor’s side appeared to be able to create scoring chances with greater ease than their Carlow opponents. The first burst from Ballyhale had produced 3 points, the second would triple that and would see them lead 0-9 to 0-2 at the first water break. Messrs. Adrian Mullen, Brian & Eoin Cody, Ronan Corcoran, TJ Reid and Joe Cuddihy would contribute to the emphatic first quarter blitz by the Nore Siders, and notably, all their scores came from play.

MLR would only add one further score to their first quarter Evan Shefflin total, via Fiachra Fitzpatrick, under pressure and the warning signs looked ominous for Conor Phelan’s charges. Things would go from bad to worse for the Carlow side when the heavily strapped Eddie Byrne had to be withdrawn from play after only 15 minutes.

You could sense that the Rangers supporters were fearing the worst, and when Adrian Mullen slotted over another welltaken point for this third of the day, the gap between the sides appeared to be widening. The Carlow champions did reduce the deficit to six points, with much needed scores from Teddy Joyce and their top marksman, Denis Murphy.

Little did their watching faithful know that only one further placed along with those points would be the last scores registered by their side in a disappointing first half for MLR. Shamrocks responded to their opponents 2-point salvo with scores of their own from TJ and Cuddihy.

Eight points down as they entered the final five minutes of a difficult first period, manager Phelan needed to stem the tide, but

Shamrocks snu Rangers threat Offaly champs St Rynaghs next up for Ballyhale

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Hurling matters

ff out

unfortunately some loose marking allowed No.12 Cuddihy and the very lively Brian Cody to pop over nice points to leave Shamrocks an impressive and worthy 9 points up when Offaly referee Richie Fitzsimons blew for half-time.

Ballyhale 0-14, MLR 0-5.

Despite Eoin Cody having wind escapes his advantage for marker the second half, MLR knew it would take a comeback of epic proportion to advance to the next stage of the competition. Surely the best-known club side in hurling history wouldn’t entertain such fairytales.

When play resumed, the first score registered was a free from that man Denis Murphy.

The corner-forward was then given another opportunity from a placed ball which he duly slotted over. TJ then popped over a free to leave the score 0-15 to 0-7. The pattern in the second half was a little different to that of the half that had preceded it. The game wasn’t as freeflowing, the referee was much busier, mostly in the blowing for frees.

Both teams possessed accurate placed-ball takers, in TJ Reid and Denis Murphy, and so commenced their personal battle. The newlywed TJ fired over another free, before his nemesis Murphy, replied with two of his own following Shamrocks indiscretions. The crowd had been lifted; the noise increased and when midfielder Richard Coady hit his sides third score on the bounce, they were a little more hope in their cheers if not total belief in the task ahead.

When Murphy struck his sides fifth unanswered point to narrow the gap to just 5 points, there appeared to be a little more collective belief in the MLR challenge. For the first time in the quarter-final, Ballyhale found themselves under periods of concerted pressure, but what do champions do when facing difficulty? they respond, and that’s exactly what James O’Connor’s troops did with the next two points, both from play by Eoin Cody and the sharp looking Adrian Mullen.

Denis Murphy again punished another Shamrocks indiscretion when he pointed yet another free, to leave six between the sides as the whistle sounded for the second water break, 0-18 to 0-12. To the surprise of the

Adrian Mullen races to get the ball

pundits, players and supporters, MLR had outscored Ballyhale by 0-7 to 0-4 with cornerforward Murphy responsible for six of those scores.

When battle recommenced, Murphy again displayed his placed-ball prowess, by slotting over another free. Play would be briefly halted, when the emergency services were required to administer attention to an unfortunate spectator, who had collapsed in the stand.

On the resumption of play, MLR Denis Murphy slotted over another free to reduce the deficit to just 4 points with a little over 10 minutes to play. From the resulting puck-out, the game’s best chance of a goal arrived, and the moment that Conor Phelan and his side will look back on over the winter months.

Centre-forward Chris Nolan collected a loose ball before finding Jon Nolan with a lovely pass.

Jon went straight for goal and struck his effort goal-bound, but could only watch in horror as Ballyhale net minder Dean Mason somehow managed to prevent the ball reaching the net.

A collective sigh could be heard by the Rangers supporters across the ground.

Startled by MLR goal attempt, Shamrocks then registered a point, from TJ, before cornerback Gary Kelly pointed for the Carlow side to stir supporters from both sides, as the final couple of minutes approached. Who else, but Denis Murphy notched another free to leave just a major between the sides, 0-19 to 0-16.

Lesser teams would have crumbled in the face of the MLR challenge, but not this team. In true champions fashion, Ballyhale then upped the ante. First up was TJ, who struck, possibly the best score of the game with a stunning point from his own half. Eoin Cody then forced Rangers goalkeeper Grennan into a smart save, which he managed to put behind for a ‘65.

What happened next? Well TJ popped over the ‘65, obviously. There was still time for Joe Cuddihy to notch his sides final score of the day and seal their place in the Leinster semi-final this weekend.

Final Score, MLR 0-16, Shamrocks of Ballyhale 0-22 Ballyhale Shamrocks: Dean Mason; Darren Mullen, Joey Holden, Kevin Mullen; Evan Shefflin (0-01), Richie Reid, Brian Butler; Darragh Corcoran, Ronan Corcoran (0-01); Brian Cody (0-04), TJ Reid (0-06, 0-03f, 0-01 65), Colin Fennelly; Adrian Mullen (0-03), Eoin Cody (0-03), Joe Cuddihy (0-04).

Subs: Eoin Reid for Darren Mullen, Gavin Butler for Brian Butler, Eoin Kenneally for Cuddihy Mount Leinster Rangers: Dean Grennan; Michael Doyle, David Phelan, Gary Kelly (001); Gary Lawlor, Diarmuid Byrne, Richard Kelly; Paul Coady, Richard Coady (0-01); Fiachra Fitzpatrick (0-01), Chris Nolan, Kevin McDonald; Denis Murphy (0-12, 0-11f), Edward Byrne, Jon Nolan.

Subs: Ted Joyce (0-01) for Edward Byrne Referee: Richie Fitzsimons (Offaly)

>> SHERRY SAYS...

To the FOUR - Joe Cuddihy had a big input vs MLR, scoring 0-4 SHERRY SAYS MOTM Brian Cody strikes a lovely point

For three quarters of this quarter-final tie, James O’Connor’s men were in control. A blistering first period saw Shamrocks 7-up at the first water break. All 9 points from the Kilkenny side from play. Remarkable achievement for ‘winter hurling’. 9-up at the short whistle, all looked in order. Midfielder Brian Cody out- performing his engine-room partner, Ronan Corcoran. This Cody hitting 4 points.

Adrian Mullen & Joe Cuddihy, the pick of the attacking six. Mullen in particular is looking sharper with every minute of championship action played. This augurs well for not only the club, but the county also.

In defence, both Joey Holden and Richie Reid played superably, particularly in the first half. Holden plucking lots of balls out of the sky and Richie mopping up from No.6.

The second half saw lots of frees conceded, and this will be of concern to the Ballyhale management. The main source of scores for the opposition came from the hurl of Denis Murphy via the placed ball. As the journey in Leinster and beyond continues, we will need to tighten up a lot, in terms of giving away scorable frees.

MLR will relive Jon Nolan’s second half goal chance over the dark winter evenings ahead.

When he found himself with only the keeper to beat, most spectators would have been thinking a green flag was about to be raised – but Dean Mason wasn’t a spectator – his smothering save was huge and helped -stem the rising Rangers tide. The young keeper is building on his ever-growing reputation – I would imagine the older Brian Cody will have taken note.

Next up for the champions in Leinster, is the challenge of the Faithful County’s top side St Rynaghs. Tullamore the likely venue in a couple of days’ time. Yes, they will provide a stern test, yes, they cause problems, but you ultimately feel that Colin Fennelly and co.

Will prevail.

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Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster AIB Senior Hurling Championship Semi-Final St Rynaghs (Offaly) Vs Shamrocks Ballyhale Bord Na Mona O Connor Park, Tullamore, Sunday 1:00 PM THE Ballyhale machine will be back on the road this weekend, as they look to continue their impressive record in the Provincial series, when they take on Faithful County champions St Rynaghs in Tullamore on Sunday, in a bid to reach yet another Leinster club final.

St Rynaghs have actually won two senior hurling titles in the last 6 months, as the deferred 2020 decider against KilcormacKilloughey was only played in August, with the Banagher based team securing back-to-back county titles with a 6-point win. The 2021 final played last month was a much tighter affair, with Ken Hogan’s side emerging 2-point winners, thanks to a deflected last gasp goal from wing-forward Stephen Quirke, to break the hearts of their Coolderry opponents.

The win secured 3-in-a-row for St Rynaghs for the first time since the 1970’s, and in doing so completed a title double for manager Hogan. The former Tipperary Goalkeeping legend had managed his native Lorrha to the Tipperary Junior B Camogie Championship title in the morning before travelling up to Tullamore to guide his St Rynaghs charges to their late, late win.

The Premier County legend has something of the Midas touch.

Hogan, actually led Coolderry to back-to-back Offaly titles in 2010 & 2011.

The Offaly champions possess a decent attacking threat, with the likes of Luke O’Connor, Aidan Treacy and Aaron Kenny particularly potent. James O’Connor will hope that Joey Holden & Co will be on their game and be a little more disciplined in their defending compared to the 3rd quarter against MLR last time out.

Indeed, the battle of the placed-ball specialists could again prove crucial as winter hurling continues.

In Aidan Treacy, the Offaly side have a player who is deadly accurate from long-range frees as well as the ‘bread and butter’ stuff. TJ Reid never seems to get flustered, whatever the occasion.

His ability will be key, not only in terms of placed balls, but also in roaming deeper and delivering quality ball to the likes of Eoin Cody, Adrian Mullen and Joe Cuddihy.

Adrian Mullen’s resurgence this season has shown glimpses of why the hard-working talented forward was recently young hurler of the year. His ability to secure possession and take a range of scores, especially given the conditions underfoot at this time of year. His link-up with Eoin Cody and Joe Cuddihy could help sway the tie in Shamrocks favour. The trio notched 10 points of their sides total in the semi-final win at Netwatch Cullen Park.

Again, winning the middle third will give many clues as to which side will advance to the provincial final to play the winners of the other last four clash between Clough/ Ballacolla and Kilmacud Crokes. Ronan Corcoran has been hurling with tremendous poise and skill this season, while his partner, Brian Cody, came to the fore against MLR, notching four points from play in the first half.

They are likely to come against Joseph O’Connor and Ronan Hughes in the St Rynaghs engine room.

MLR manager, and Clara native Conor Phelan described Ballyhale as the ‘best team in the county’ in the wake of his sides 6-point defeat to the Shamrocks.

It would take a brave man to argue against the Richie Reid sentiments of Phelan. Sunday will be another step on clears his lines the journey in retaining their All-Ireland title.

Ballyhale seek Offaly win in bi for final Eoin Cody will look to evade his markers

All pix: Danny Lahart

St Rynaghs stand in Shamrocks way as Hogan plots upset

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Hurling matters Testing the jersey of Ronan Corcoran

d Captain Colin will lead his side into battle

Joey Holden - calm you like - The fullback will have a pivotal role on Sunday

Fancy a flutter?

Betting site Paddy Po wer have installed the Kilkenny kingpins as favourites to retain the overwhelming If we believe the book ir provincial title. ies off against Dublin’s fin , Ballyhale will faceest, Kilmacud Crokes in the provincial final.

• Ballyhale Shamroc ks 3/10 • Kilmacud Crokes 5/2 • St Rynaghs 11/1 • Clough Ballacolla 20 In terms of the bigge /1 r pic Club title, Coral see Ba ture, the All-Ireland llyhale as the team to beat.

Coral has Ballyhale Sh amrocks as 11/8 favourites, with Muns ter heavyweights Ballygunner at 3/1.

There’s plenty of hurlin g reach the club final sta to play before we the Kilkenny faithful thage, but it’s not only the side best equippe t believe we have d to reach the summ it once again.

TJ’s accuracy will be vital

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Hurling matters - preview

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

2021 AIB Leinster Club Intermediate Hurling Cham ionshi semi final Naas Hurling Club vs Glenmore Newbridge 1:00 PM

Alan Murphy

IT’S Newbridge or nowhere tomorrow for Glenmore and their travelling army of supporters, as Declan Wall’s team bid for a place in this year’s AIB Leinster Club Intermediate Hurling Championship final.

The Kilkenny Intermediate champions can expect a vociferous challenge when they face Nass at the home of Kildare GAA tomorrow.

Naas are a huge club. They have over 80 teams participating across Football, hurling and camogie.

This year has seen success at county level for both their senior footballers and intermediate hurlers, with both teams involved in semi-final action in their respective tournaments.

Adding a little more spice to tomorrow’s hurling semi-final, is the fact that Naas are managed

by Glenmore native Tom Mullally. These fixtures have a habit of throwing up little side stories such as this one!

Mullally is also the Carlow hurling manager, and it is with one of its most revered teams that he excelled at club level.

In 2013 the Glenmore man led Mount Leinster Rangers to the Leinster senior title, and to the All-Ireland club final, where they lost out to Portumna. A brother of former Kilkenny players Richie and Paddy, he coached Clara in Kilkenny to the 2013 county senior — their first in 27 years. He was Wexford U21 manager in 2018, steering them to the Leinster final, though they lost to Galway in the star-studded clash.

So Tom knows what it takes to get over the line at the highest level in club hurling, and no doubt, he will have a plan to try and derail his home clubs attempts to reach this seasons intermediate final.

Naas completed their 3-in-a-row county titles by staging a great comeback to defeat Celbridge last month. Their captain Brian Byrne, is a dual player, and was part of the senior football side that won their first county title in over 30 years recently. Byrne scored 2-29 across the county competition.

The Kildare champions scored heavily in their county championship, amassing an impressive 25-128 scoring total, and conceding just 5-56 in the six games played. Corner-forward Jack Sheridan, incidentally, a cousin of their captain, is their main marksman, the talented attacker notched 6-35 in their run to the county title.

Glenmore will need to be disciplined in the tackle, as Sheridan is deadly accurate from the placed ball. It could well be Sean Duggan that has the role of picking up the Naas danger man, and he may need the help of others to nullify Sheridan’s threat.

James Burke, Cathal Dowling and Shane Ryan have also registered decent tallies in their sides march to Leinster.

In midfield, Naas will look to Simon Lacey to occupy Philly Roche and Billy Reid. Lacey scored the all-important goal in their county final win. In defence, full-back Richard Hogan has been hugely impressive, and will be assisted at wing-back by the hardworking Kevin Whelan.

In their recent Leinster quarter-final against Dublin champions, Castleknock, Mullally’s men made light work of the capital side, winning 1-21 to 1-6. It should be noted that the Dublin side played with 14 men for three-quarters of the game.

Ok, enough about Naas.

Glenmore come into this semi-final on the back of a quarterfinal win over Laois side Ballinakill. While not at their free-flowing best, Declan Wall’s men showed enough to suggest that there is still plenty left in the tank, and another gear of two to go up, if and when required.

During their run to this stage, Glenmore have been ticking along nicely. Let’s start with the Murphy’s. Alan has been precision personified from the placed ball and Mullally will have his side warned not to present many opportunities to Alan. In Defence, his bothers Shane and Eoin have been instrumental in helping Glenmore return to the top table of Kilkenny club hurling. Eoin’s reading of the game and ability to drive forward and deliver quality ball to his forwards is a thing of beauty. Meanwhile, Shane will marshal the defence from wing-back and can be utilised as a

All pix: Danny Lahart

Mark Aylward the link man

Murphy’s out to oust Mullally!

Glenmore blood in both camps as Naas seek cats scalp

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Hurling matters - preview

Shane Murphy

man-marker if the job requires it.

Roche and Reid in the engine room will give their opponents plenty to think about and won’t be found wanting if things get hot and heavy.

The front six of the Kilkenny intermediate champions possess an array of talent and skills that will trouble the best back lines in the country. Led by captain Ger Aylward at fullforward, who notched 1-3 from play last time out, the forward unit can have a huge say in the winning of tomorrow’s game.

Ger’s brother Mark, will run all day and will Ian Byrne provide great support from can cause a deeper position. Liam Naas Hennessey, who by his own problems standards was quiet in the quart-final win, can call the shots from No.11. Robbie Fitz will buzz around all over the place and get on plenty of ball.

This should mean that the likes of Ger and Ian Byrne get plenty of chances to trouble the score board.

This one has the makings of a real ding-dong battle.

Let’s hope there is only one Glenmore man on the losing side on Saturday evening. #hontheglenG Glenmore shooting for victory

Eoin Murphy

Taking aim

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

Motors 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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Classifieds Motors

RECRUITMENT

JOB DETAILS: • Job category: Healthcare Assistant • Company: Drakelands House Nursing Home, Drakelands, Kilkenny R95 YR02 • Job Location: Drakelands Kilkenny • Start Immediately • Contract Type: Permanent – Full-time • Positions: 8 • Experience: 2 years’ experience in a caring environment preferable • Qualification: Diploma in nursing • Salary: €27,000 Per Annum • Hours: 39 Per Week Send C.V.: anne@drakelandshouse.com Applicants will be required to work as part of a team of healthcare assistants, under the direction of nursing team, and to provide person-cantered care to meet the needs of our Residents. Our holistic approach to the care of our Residents is centered on the fulfilment of the needs of the individual whilst maintaining their dignity, privacy and independence in a comfortable and homely setting

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Call: 056 7771463 / 086 2395370 or email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie for extremely competitive rates.

Call 056 7771463 for all your classified advertisements.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021

News

Memoriams/Miracle Planning notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Patrick Fitzgerald & Kelly Brennan intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for a Proposed new Single storey dwelling, proposed vehicular entrance, proposed driveway, connection to public watermain, connection to existing public foul sewer, stormwater soakaways, landscaping and all associated site works at Massford, Castlecomer, 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, www.ngdb.ie.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Lou Investments Healthcare Kilkenny Limited intends to apply for planning permission for development at Newpark Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Newpark, Kilkenny. To include the following: 1. The material change of use of part (Area: 155m2) of the ground floor general medical practice use (previously granted under planning permission 18/59); to a new pharmacy retail unit, which will now operate as a separate unit.

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

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Lou Investments Healthcare Kilkenny Limited intends to apply for planning permission for development at Newpark Primary Care Centre, Golf Links Road, Newpark, Kilkenny. To include the following: 1. The Material change of use; of part (Area: 176m2) of the ground floor Community Resource Centre use (previously granted under planning permission 18/59); to healthcare use.

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

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought by Conor & Ailbhe Crowe for: The construction of a new dwelling house and garage, the upgrade of existing vehicular site entrance and formation of a new driveway, part demolition and alteration of the existing roadside vehicular entrance and boundary structures, the demolition of an existing domestic garage, the removal of existing septic tank and percolation area, the installation of two new wastewater treatment units & percolation areas to serve both the proposed and existing dwelling houses and to carry out all associated site development works at Sheastown, Co. Kilkenny. R95 Y0P1.

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

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

MARY BLANCHFIELD 16TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Mary, late of 25 Larchfield, Kilkenny who died on 14th December 2005.

If roses grow in heaven Lord Please pick a bunch for me Place them in Mary’s arms And tell her they are from me Tell her that I love and miss her and when she turns to smile place a kiss upon her face and hold her for a while .

Remembering her is easy I do it every day But there is an ache in my heart That will never fade away It broke my heart to lose you But you did not go alone For part of me went with you The day God took you home .

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

(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. J.OS

(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. A.OD

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

Loved and never forgotten by Gregory, sons, daughters, grandchildren and sister Bridget.

Prayers Sunday 12th December in St. Patrick’s Church

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.H

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. G.W

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 10 December 2021