Kilkenny Observer 12 December 2025

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Castle Is King Our iconic tourism is the No. 1 visited!  Page 3

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Death Of Diana How the BBC betrayed the People's Princess  Marianne Heron, Page 12

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Houses ‘fall’ down again Work on housing has dropped for the seventh month Work on housing projects has fallen, yet again, for the seventh consecutive month, although at the slowest pace since June, while construction activity overall decreased again last month, according to a leading index.

There were further signs of demand weakness in the sector as new orders fell, while the pace of cost inflation picked up.

The headline figure in the AIB Ireland Construction Total Activity Index moved further below the no-change 50 mark, dropping from 48.1 in October to 46.7 in November.

Activity has now decreased in each of the past seven months.

Activity decreased across all three categories, as commercial construction once more fell back into decline.

Civil engineering posted the sharpest decline, as the rate of contraction accelerated from October.

“The survey points to a renewed loss of momentum in building activity levels midway through the fourth quarter,” said John Fahey, AIB’s senior economist.

“The headline index of 46.7 in November, compared to 48.1 in October, suggests a

faster pace of contraction last month. The sectoral breakdown showed that the weakness in activity levels was broad-based across the three sub-sectors.

“Commercial construction fell back into contractionary territory in November, having seen a modest pace of expansion in October.

The downturn in residential building persisted, with ac-

tivity levels declining for the seventh successive month, although the pace of contraction eased in November.

“Civil engineering also posted a seventh straight month of contraction, with the pace of decline worsening.”

New orders also decreased for the fourth consecutive month. Nevertheless, firms are optimistic that they will

South East hit by Bram Soaker

We’re King of the Castles!

Storm Bram caused disruption across Ireland as almost 60,000 premises were left without power at the height of the storm and thousands of commuters were affected by cancelled flights, ferries and trains as well as road closures.

There were a number of lucky escapes reported nationwide, with a fallen tree narrowly missing a bus in Wicklow and another tree toppling just metres from a home in Cork.

There were power outages in Kilkenny and Carlow, with trees reported falling at Kilbline Cross, at Bennettsbridge and at the Rock Road, Thomastown Flooding hit Waterford’s Plunkett railway station where operations were suspended..

Coastal flooding was also reported in Tramore and Dungarvan. Roads had to be temporarily closed, including the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Bridge outside New Ross.

Kilkenny Castle is the most Instagrammed location in Kilkenny, according to new research.

The study, carried out by Virgin Media Ireland, analysed the number of tagged Instagram posts across the county’s most visited sights and attractions. The analysis used the total number of posts to determine the destinations that are most popular with social-media-sharing visitors.

Kilkenny Castle claimed the No.1 spot with 54,900 tagged Instagram posts, securing its position as the county’s most photographed landmark. The popular destination also performed strongly at national level, ranking 24th overall in the Top 50 Most Instagrammable Spots in Ireland.

Other spots included St Canices Cathedral, at No. 2 with 3,070 posts, while Medieval Mile secured third place thanks to 2,804 posts. Following that was Jerpoint Abbey and Kells Priory, both long-standing favourites with tourists and locals alike.

Our Grogan & Brown win excellence award Grogan & Brown Artisan Butchers has been awarded Excellence Awards by the Irish Butchers’ Guild for outstanding performance in retail store presentation and meat display in the 2025 IBG Retail Excellence Awards.

This recognition confirms Grogan & Brown Artisan

Butchers’ position as a leading name in Kilkenny’s meat retail scene.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive these Excellence Awards,” said Jon Brown, the owner of Grogan & Brown.

“From day one we have aimed to provide Kilkenny with a butcher shop that hon-

see growth over the coming year. A number of respondents to the survey suggested they expect to be busier in 2026.

Staffing levels increased for the first time in three months Meantime, companies purchasing items were faced with a further lengthening of suppliers’ delivery times, continuing a trend seen over the past 18 months.

ours traditional craft, sources high-quality meats, and presents them in a way that respects our customers and our craft. This recognition is a tribute to our dedicated team and loyal customers.”

Grogan & Brown Artisan Butchers in Kilkenny is a multi-award-winning butch-

er shop, located in the Smithland Centre on the Waterford Road. The business combines traditional craft butchery with modern retail standards, offering grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, poultry, and speciality cuts alongside curated meat boxes and prepared products.

The Irish Butchers’ Guild

in its citation said: “Grogan & Brown Artisan Butchers exemplifies what we set out to reward – a combination of butchery craftsmanship, retail professionalism, and customer-focused presentation. Their shop sets a high benchmark for artisan butchers nationwide.”

Cartoon, Christmas ... and cancer care Cois Nore Community Cancer Support Centre is delighted to announce the release of a brand-new Christmas card, designed exclusively by the internationally acclaimed animation studio, Cartoon Saloon. This festive addition to Cois Nore’s popular card range captures the warmth, joy, and spirit of the season while celebrating the strength of community and compassion at the heart of Cois Nore’s mission.

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Revealing the river, becoming the sea While embracing the description of herself as a disabled artist, Mary Duffy is quick to point out that this does not mean that she “paints with her feet”.

Instead, she says that she paints with her eyes and her heart. “If you wouldn’t describe a pianist as playing the piano with their fingers, why would you insist that I paint with my toes?

“A pianist’s fingers have very little really to do with the complexities of playing the piano, as most of the activity for the pianist, as well as the painter, happens between the ears, and not below the wrists or the ankles”, she argues. “ I know this for sure,” she says with an impish grin, “because I am a pianist, as well as a painter“. Her mother had great hopes for all the children to learn to play the piano and her ambition didn’t stop with her daughter, who was born without arms.

For years Mary Duffy had piano lessons, and readily acknowledges that even though she made her debut as a pianist on Raidió Éireann, she was not a good student.

Always resisting being defined solely by her impairment, this capable and competent artist says that people who credit her toes with creating paintings are “not thinking”.

But those who comment that because of her abilities that she’s not really disabled, are insulting not only her, but all other disabled people as well.

“They really need to broaden their views”, she says. “ Just because I don’t fit their narrow stereotype of what

disability means, does not mean I am not disabled”.

A prolific painter with over a dozen solo shows under her belt, from The Bold Gallery in Galway in 2007 to the Courthouse Arts Centre in Tinahely in 2022 and The Buttermarket in Kennmare the following year, she has exhibited consistently since she graduated from art college in 1983.

The idea of painting from the balcony, the view of the river to the sea, was conceived in the summer of 2023. That summer, the artist was researching venues to show her work.

As a disabled artist, she is keen to only exhibit in accessible venues, narrowing her choices considerably.

Even though her work is in both public and private collections, she recognises that as a practicing artist, she has fewer and fewer opportunities in recent times.

However, Wicklow’s Library with its bright and airy exhibition space on the top floor, provides a fantastic opportunity, not only to exhibit, but also to create paintings on site.

Her exhibition which opened on December 4, and runs until Saturday, December 20, will benefit from the very relaxed atmosphere in Wicklow Library. This environment will uniquely allow the possibility of “engaging with all who come and visit,”she hopes.

“Now that I am in charge”, she says “I am thinking to myself, I don’t have to have an opening. I don’t even have to hang a specific number of paintings. I can leave some walls blank if I want. I can show videos of my work in progress. It’s entirely up to me.”

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Wake up , protect your brain – and smell your ....

Instead of stopping to smell the flowers, scientists suggest stopping to smell your farts.

While the thought may be enough to make your stomach turn, scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine said the gas behind the foul, rottenegg-smelling stench, known as hydrogen sulphide, can

help protect ageing brain cells from Alzheimer's disease.

While the gas is highly toxic in large quantities, smaller doses may provide some serious health benefits, Johns Hopkins researchers noted in a study published in an issue of the Proceedings Of The National Academies Of Science.

"Our new data firmly link ageing, neurodegeneration and cell signalling using hydrogen sulphide and other gaseous molecules within the cell,” the study's lead scientist, Dr Bindu Paul, said.

The human body naturally creates small amounts of hydrogen sulphide, which helps

regulate functions throughout the body. The gases can facilitate cellular messaging with the brain.

The hydrogen sulphide modifies target proteins through a process called chemical sulfhydration, according to coauthor Dr Solomon Snyder.

Sulfhydration levels in the

brain decrease with age, the scientists said, noting that the trend has a greater presence in Alzheimer's patients.

"Here, using the same method, we now confirm a decrease in sulfhydration in the AD brain,” study collaborator Dr Milos Filipovic said.

As part of the study, Johns

Hopkins Medicine scientists looked at mice that were genetically modified to mimic human Alzheimer's disease.

Behaviour tests on the mice showed hydrogen sulphide improved cognitive and motor function by 50% compared with mice that did not receive the injections.

Ireland is leading in search for cancer fix A collaborative approach to cancer research and innovation has placed the island of Ireland above many of its European counterparts in the scientific impact of its cancer research, according to a new study.

‘The All-Island Cancer Research Landscape Report: An Analysis of Cancer Research in Ireland and Northern Ireland 2019-2024,’ supported by the Irish Cancer Society, was launched recently with the help of Erin McGreehan TD, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, at an event in the Museum of Literature of Ireland, in Dublin.

The report, which was produced by the All-Island Cancer Research Institute (AICRI), examined the impact of cancer research from Ireland and Northern Ireland from 2019 to 2024 – measured by how often cancer research papers were cited by the world's scientific community.

The strongest indicator reported is that collaboration, especially international collaboration, consistently amplifies cancer research impact, achieving around 160% higher impact score* than the world average.

Over 65% of cancer research papers in Ireland and Northern Ireland are co-authored with international partners.

While cancer research papers from Ireland and Northern Ireland achieved impact scores that were 110% and 90% higher than the world average, respectively, the impact was 130% higher for publications from joint cancer research activities.

Prof Mark Lawler, Professor of Digital Health at Queen’s University Belfast, co-lead

of AICRI and co-author of the report, said: “Our data show what I’ve been saying for years: one, cancer knows no borders; and two, we need to compete, not against each other, but against our common enemy – cancer.

Governments in Dublin and Belfast need to heed what our data reveal and what our report is telling them – together, we are better. This report quantifies just how much better we are.”

Prof William Gallagher, Professor of Cancer Biology at UCD, co-lead of AICRI and co-author of the report, said: “This report highlights clearly that collaboration is the main driver for better, more impactful cancer research. Our data, covering over 10,000 cancer research publications across the island of Ireland over a recent 6-year period, shows that cross-border, international and academicindustry collaboration are key to ensuring high-quality.

Approximately two thirds of our cancer research publications involve international representcollaborators, ing well over 100 countries worldwide.”

The impact of academic-industry partnerships was even greater, although they account for only 7% of output. Cancer research papers that involved an industry partner in Ireland and Northern Ireland had the strongest impact of all the partnerships evaluated, measuring at 700% and 250% higher than the world average, respectively.

Looking specifically at cancer clinical trials, the data reveal that academicindustry collaborations delivered research outputs that achieved at least 10 times greater impact than the world average, for both Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Remembering Susan Carton ...

Earlier this year, Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Sligo & St Angela’s mourned the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Susan Carton, formally of Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, a remarkable educator whose influence continues to shape disability education, thought, and practice across the university and far beyond.

Susan began her academic career in 2003 as a lecturer on the Intellectual Disability Nursing degree programmes.

Her leadership was instrumental in the development of groundbreaking programmes in ATU, including

the BA in Health and Disability Studies, the Certificate in Disability Studies, the Postgraduate Diploma in Disability Studies, and the Master’s in Disability Studies.

Beyond teaching, research and curriculum design, Susan was a tireless advocate for disabled people. She represented the university on national bodies, including the Disability Equality Specialist Support Agency (DESSA) and other key organisations, always speaking with clarity, honesty, and courage about the change needed in Irish society. She did not soften her message,

but she delivered it with warmth, conviction, and compassion. Her voice carried weight because it always centred the lived realities and rights of disabled people.

Reflecting on her friend and colleague, Dr Edel McSharry, Head of Department of Nursing, Health Sciences and Disability Studies, said: “Susan had a way of gently but firmly turning our assumptions inside out. She helped us see how often our reactions to disability came from misplaced sympathy, or from a desire to protect, when what was needed

was equality, respect, and honesty. She changed how I see the world — and how I see myself within it. Losing her has left a space that cannot be filled, but her voice is in everything we do. I miss her deeply and think of her often.”

At the recent 2025 Conferring Ceremony on ATU St Angela’s honoured Susan’s legacy by presenting the inaugural Susan Carton Memorial Award to Mary Maher, who graduated with an MSc in Disability Studies and had been taught and supported

by Susan throughout her studies.

Confident outlook for national suckler herd There may be "some rebuilding” in the national suckler herd as renewed confidence and optimism filter through the sector, but any recovery in numbers could take until 2028 to impact slaughter figures, Pearse Kelly, Head of Drystock Knowledge Transfer at Teagasc, has said.

He said the shift in sentiment is becoming evident on the ground, with signs that some farmers are choosing to put additional heifers incalf, with many choosing to breed their own as opposed

to buying in heifers.

But he said the production cycle in beef is three or four years before you see the impact of a decision made today.

"If we do see a turnaround in terms of breeding more heifers within the suckler herd, that's going to be 2027 before animals on the ground and 2028 before some of those animals are ready for slaughter.”

His comments come as recent figures show suckler calvings are down by 23,000,

dairy calvings by 31,000 and increased use of sexed semen has boosted the number of beef-sired calves from the dairy herd, while dairy-sired bull calf registrations have fallen by 60,000 head, or 21%.

He told the Farming Independent there were concerns around processor viability in terms of the number of beef processing plants. "For them to operate at optimal levels, they need a throughput.

That's in everyone's interests.

"There could be implications down the road.

"We can't have a continuous drop every year, or we'll end up at a point where we will have no animals left, but what we do have is that we're at a situation where we're at one of the lowest levels of production in this country in a long number of years. We are going to see this continue into 2026.

"Will that continue into 2027? That's going to completely depend on live exports in spring 2026 and into autumn," said Pearse Kelly.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

The 17-year-old living inside this old man Ingrid Bergman once said: “Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better.” The star of Casablanca died in 1982 at the age of 67, relatively young by today’s standards.

Today we – the fortunate ones, that is –are all living longer. The days of our lives being ‘nasty, brutish and short’ — as has been the case for most of human history — are in the past and if you are in your 50s, 60s or older , like me, and live in the ‘civilised’ world, well, you’ve never had it so good.

But is age just a number – as today’s thinking would have it? Perhaps ... maybe.

In my head I feel like I did when I was, say, 17.

Yes, a lot more years of learning, experiences, a life lived well; but in my head I am still that 17-year-old on the verge of adulthood, even though I passed the 70th

mark a few years back.

Not long before that momentous birthday, I was at the front of a bus queue when four secondary schoolgirls lined up behind me, chatting away and giggling as was their wont. The bus pulled in and I, ever the gentleman, stood back to allow the young women get on before me. I gestured with a swing of my open palm. The girls didn’t budge.

After a monetary stand-off I said to myself, Right, we could be here all day – so I got on the bus.

Then it dawned on me, these girls were showing good manners in allowing the ‘old fella’ on first.

Some days, you just can’t win.

The adage ‘age is just a number’ for some means that chronological age does not have to define our abilities, our mindset. It’s an expression increasingly used

to challenge age-based stereotypes and to encourage us to live life to the fullest, regardless of age, by maintaining a positive outlook and staying active both mentally and physically.

The last census in 2022 showed there were in Ireland 761,000 aged 65 and over. That figure ie expected to top one million by 2050.

Meantime, while I may think my brain, my consciousness, is still as it was when I was 17, it is, as science shows us, just not so.

It has been widely found that the volume of the brain and/or its weight declines with age at a rate of around 5% a decade after age 40 – yes, 40! – with the actual rate of decline possibly increasing with age particularly over age 70. (Now, what did I come up the stairs this time for?).

According to my psycholo-

gist friend from Magherafelt, the manner in which this decline occurs is less clear.

The shrinking of the grey matter is reported to stem

“Right, we could be here all day, I thought – so I got on the bus...

from “neuronal cell death” but whether this is primarily responsible is not entirely clear. The rate of reduction in brain volume may increase with age, particularly over 70, but development and ageing, mapping structure to function and change because of ageing is a complex task, he says. I say, I could really do with a drink right now All I know, I tell him, is that my brain and memory are still in great nick but act somewhat differently. Like having to mentally plan a forthcoming action, and being less spontaneous.

When you’re young, it’s hard to envisage getting old.

Now, I am here, I hear that train a comin’ and its shrill whistle increasingly stops me in my tracks, momentarily frozen with the fear of, and for, the future. Dementia and such.

Today, people in their 70s

seem, not necessarily young, just nicely mature. Hopefully, wise and empathetic.

The 70s is the new 50s, they say. No, 70s is the 70s. With living longer sooner or later can come a failing ability to function – not quite there yet, thank you very much – and an increasing blip on society, on State pensions and on its young members in terms of care and cost in becoming that “child that is father to the man”.

My father, who lived until he was 80, used to say that life was “sweet no matter what”. He had good health until the end. But the acorn does not always fall that close to the tree and our lifestyles are polar opposites. I am still here though. Thankfully... so far so good, minor ailments notwithstanding.

Like a good wine, I may be old but I am fine.

Meanwhile, I’m away to another funeral.

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The likely 'conditions' for derogation renewal The proposed three-year renewal of Ireland's nitrates derogation, set to begin in 2028, will likely see a 5% cut to chemical nitrogen use on derogation farms and wider buffer zones for the Barrow, Nore, Slaney and Blackwater rivers.

Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has confirmed that the European Commis-

sion has agreed to put forward a three-year extension of Ireland's nitrates derogation, following what he described as "very sensitive negotiations”.

Minister Heydon, who briefed farm organisations and industry stakeholders on the details at a meeting last week, is understood to have stressed that the proposal is "not a done deal” and hinges on secur-

ing the required approval of Member States at the EU Nitrates Committee tomorrow.

The minister confirmed the Implementing Decision is for a three-year extension, but it remains subject to the completion of detailed environmental assessments required under the Habitats Directive. This legal requirement, sought by the Commission in June, had

placed a "significant extra burden” on Ireland.

The most immediate concern for farmers will be the specific new conditionality that is understood to be tied to the renewal.

However, according to the Farming Independent, it is understood that the Commission's initial demands for a reduction to overall stocking

limits and a restriction on new derogation entrants were not agreed to.

It's also understood that the final agreement includes measures targeted at addressing nitrogen loss in the country's most vulnerable river systems, which are backed by EPA data quantifying the need for greater nitrogen reduction in these areas.

Among these targeted measures, which will only apply to derogation farmers, are understood to be: A 5% reduction in the chemical nitrogen allowance for grassland on higher-stocked derogation farms.

Increased buffer zones in four specific, key catchments: the Barrow, Nore, Slaney and Blackwater rivers.

Costs may force care homes to shut down The future of some smaller nursing homes could see them face possible closure next year, a new recruitment agency analysis warns.

The Excel Healthcare 2026 Salary Guide said costs for private nursing homes were increasing by up to 10%.

Pay alone was not enough to attract and retain staff, and sign-on bonuses and recognition that more want a greater work-life balance would be features for employers next year, the report said.

Martina Young, Director of Excel Healthcare, said: "Several smaller homes have closed in recent years due to the Fair Deal Scheme's failure to keep pace with inflation.

"Larger groups are absorbing some of the demand, but capacity remains short.

"The ESRI has projected a requirement for 60pc more ­ long-term care beds and home support hours by 2040.”

She said representative bodies Nursing Homes Ireland and The Alliance were calling for higher State fees under the scheme to "reflect the additional expense of providing for nursing home Fair Deal residents”.

This is estimated at €160m and €170m in additional annual funding under the state scheme and "with that, operators will continue to struggle to keep s­ ervices sustainable”.

She said: "We are seeing strong demand right across nursing, allied health and support services, but providers are struggling to match candidates' expectations around pay, flexibility and workload.

"The public-private pay gap has widened to between 15 to 20% for many frontline

roles, which is making it even harder for private employers to compete.”

The average annual salary for nurses is between €44,000 and €48,000, while healthcare assistants are earning between €33,000 and €36,000.

The average pay for a director of nursing is €95,000 and will rise to €98,000 next year.

Upper-level pay of a senior healthcare assistant this year is €17.50 an hour, rising to up to €20 an hour next year.

"These increases are improving retention, but they are also putting pressure on smaller independent providers already dealing with rising operational costs,” Ms Young said.

"Ireland now has approximately 76,500 nurses and midwives – an increase of 5.5pc since 2024, along with 26,000 doctors.

"But the recruitment experts report that many roles across both sectors remain unfilled.”

According to experts at Excel Healthcare, rising burnout, high living costs and the challenges of attracting and retaining international staff continue to affect service capacity.

"Candidates are looking for manageable workloads, predictable rosters and supportive environments. Pay matters, but it is clear that work-life balance and organisational culture are now just as important,” Ms Young said.

The "demand for skilled healthcare staff is expected to keep rising throughout 2026”.

Without adequate resourcing through the Fair Deal Scheme, providers would face mounting financial strain at a time when staffing pressures and resident dependency levels were rising, Tadhg Daly, CEO of Nursing Homes Ireland, said.

Strictly Dancing for our Rose ...

Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins has been revealed as the third contestant lighting up the dancefloor for the ninth series of Dancing with the Stars. The popular series returns to RTÉ One and RTÉ Player in January.

As the 65th International Rose of Tralee, Katelyn is the first Laois Rose to hold the title. From a village on the Laois-Kilkenny border, Katelyn is an apprentice electrician who plans to

pursue an engineering degree.

On joining the cast of Dancing with the Stars, Katelyn said: “Since August 19, when I was handed the International Rose of Tralee sash, I promised myself that I would take every opportunity that came my way and make the most of this amazing year. I’m beyond grateful and so excited to be part of this year's Dancing with the Stars.

"My parents were the first to know. Their unwavering support has got me to where I am today. I hope I can continue to make them proud and be an inspiration for my younger sister and brother.

From Irish dancing to set dancing and school musicals, dance has always been something I've enjoyed.

"I'd love to master the jive as it's been a personal favourite of mine over the last few years when dancing with my

Mam and my friends. It's a completely new world to me, a big change from the Snickers and steel toe cap boots but I can't wait to get stuck in and give it my all!”

Katelyn is no stranger to taking to the dance floor.

She won over audiences last summer with her jiving skills on stage as part of the Rose of Tralee competition.

Dancing with the Stars is hosted by Jennifer Zamparelli and Laura Fox.

... and on your toes for this Dancing Queen Get ready for the ultimate celebration of one of the world’s most beloved pop acts, as Dancing Queen Symphonic brings a dazzling, orchestra-powered tribute to The Hub at Cillin Hill, Co. Kilkenny, on May 2, 2026.

Tickets from €40, including booking fee, are now on general sale at powertik.com and ticketmaster.ie Featuring a full 22-piece symphony orchestra, a cast of powerhouse vocalists, and

electrifying special effects including CO₂ jets, spark machines, and flame bursts, this immersive concert experience transforms classic pop brilliance into a spectacular night of music, nostalgia, and dance-floor energy.

Designed as a high-spirited party from start to finish, Dancing Queen Symphonic reimagines ABBA’s globally adored catalogue with lush symphonic arrangements while staying true to the

joyful, infectious spirit that has captivated audiences for decades. Fans of all ages will be transported by rich orchestral textures, soaring harmonies, and a production that turns every performance into a full-scale celebration.

“This show is built around joy,” says the production team. “It’s about giving audiences the chance to come together, sing along, and revel in the magic of these iconic songs—enhanced by

the sound and spectacle of a live orchestra and arena-style visual effects.”

The concert pairs the precision and power of a symphony with a vibrant, modern stage show. Brilliant lighting, immersive sound design, and dynamic visual effects create a euphoric atmosphere, making Dancing Queen Symphonic a must-see event for music lovers, families, and anyone looking for an unforgettable night out.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

How the BBC betrayed Princess Diana It was one of those moments which, like the assassination of President John F Kennedy, remain etched in memory.

Thirty years ago in an interview on BBC’s Panorama Princess Diana laid bare the infidelity at the heart of her broken marriage to Prince Charles. “There were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded.”

Initially, in the aftershock which rocked the monarchy and led to Queen Elizabeth asking the couple to finalise their divorce, questions were not asked. Why had Diana given the interview to a little known reporter when she had previously turned down requests from stellar interviewers? Why had she given the interview at all, given the hurt it would cause her sons and its explosive effect?

The answer, we now know, was that the interviewer, Martin Bashir, had used lies and forgeries to magnify

Diana’s fears, involving her brother Earl Spencer in order to gain her trust. The Princess feared she was going to be murdered, believed she was under surveillance and being betrayed even by those closest to her. Among the lies that Bashir fed her was that Prince Charles was having an affair with her sons’ nanny Tiggy Legge -Bourke and that Patrick Jephson, her private secretary, who managed her life for eight years, was being paid to spy on her.

When Bashir’s appalling subterfuge were exposed he became the villain in the scandal. But there was a far bigger betrayal: the cover-up by the BBC. The full forensic detail, its denials and deceit of this betrayal is laid bare in a book by BBC journalist Andy Webb, Dianarama, published on the anniversary of that fateful interview.

Why did Webb persist in uncovering a story which

broke in 2020 after several tribunals, including the £1m. Dyson report, failed to reveal the full truth? It was due to something that Prince William said: “It brings an indescribable sadness to know that the BBC’s failures contributed significantly to her fear, paranoia and isolation. What saddens me most is that if the BBC had properly investigated the complaints and concerns first raised in in 1995, my mother would have known that she had been deceived….leaders at the BBC looked the other way.”

The implications are even sadder, had the BBC – once known in Britain as Auntie for its staid reliability – acted with due diligence, Diana might be alive today. Allowing the interview to go ahead, hastened Diana’s divorce and a year later to her being stripped of her title and Royal protection. The

next year the Princess died in Paris with Dodi Fayad in the Pont d’ Alma tunnel in circumstances which still give rise to conspiracy theories.

“Why had she given the interview at all ...?

Certainly two women close to Diana believed this to be the case. Spiritual healer Simone Simmons decried the way that Bashir groomed her and gas-lighted her to get the interview. “If it wasn’t for him she would still be alive.”

Rosa Monkton, writing in the Daily Mail, believed that the fatal crash would not have happened had Diana not been stripped of her title and had been in the embrace of royal protection.

Ironically it was Diana herself who gave bosses at the Beeb the out that they needed. Amid concerns in 1995 that a huge scandal was going to erupt, Diana was queried about the interview, she replied in a brief note that she “had no regrets about the matter”.

Andy Webb, however, continued to ask questions, even facing two days in court after a 13-year struggle to get hold of secret documents the

BBC did not want revealed.

Among the questions is one he asks in the introduction to his book: “Can it really be true that the woman, who was supposed to be our Queen Diana, had been assured by the BBC that her husband was a potential killer? Did she, because of that assurance, really set off on the crazy strategy, merely to keep herself alive?“ The answer is yes, in a story which Webb says is more lurid than any tale of Henry VIII’s Tudor court.

The interview was conducted secretly in Kensington Palace when staff were absent on a Sunday night with two technicians and Bashir disguised as hi-fi salesmen, the recording equipment concealed in cardboard boxes.

This is a story which will never die, unlike poor Diana whose strategy did not save her.

Noonan welcomes Gifting with Irish gifts this Christmas funding for fish migration programme in Kilkenny CLAIR WHITTY

SENATOR MALCOLM NOONAN

Funding for five fish migration projects in County Kilkenny, have been welcomed by Senator Malcolm Noonan. The River Barrier Programme was established

by Senator Noonan when he was Minister for Nature in the previous government and sets out to address barriers at weirs across the country to ease the migration of fish to spawning sites.

The Barrier Mitigation Programme supports requirements under the Water Framework Directive and conservation objectives in Special Areas of Conservation and for the Habitats Directive Annex II and V listed fish species, as well contributing to climate

mitigation. It will also contribute to the EU Biodiversity Strategy, which sets a European wide target of making at least 25,000km of rivers free flowing again by 2030.

Ireland’s Nature Restoration Plan will require us to the natural connectivity of rivers and natural functions of the related floodplains.

Senator Noonan said that the ‘Barrier Mitigation Programme’ is led by Inland Fisheries Ireland to improve river connectivity by strategically targeting significant barriers to fish passage and structures that are degrading river form, flow and function. The capital works approved for the 103 projects across the country are expected to improve aquatic ecosystems and support fish populations in our rivers, thereby helping biodiversity.

‘In County Kilkenny five projects have been selected; St Mullins weir, Ballyragget,

Tinnapark river in Graiguenamanagh, Duiske river and Clonassy/Pollanasa were selected for their importance as habitats. Restoring our rivers and addressing dams and barriers will also help with flood alleviation as extreme weather events become more frequent. I was delighted to have included the barriers programme in the Water Action Plan that I launched in Thomastown in 2024 as Minister for Nature’.

‘We have an opportunity now to really scale up the barriers programme, working with local communities to address impediments to the passage of fish but also helping the overall biodiversity of our rivers by bringing them back to a more natural flow. I look forward to seeing progress on these projects over coming years and hopefully many more to come under our National Nature Restoration Plan’.

Are you looking for an Irish brand product for a friend or loved one. Here are some of our favourite Irish brands.

Local honey is always popular; you might choose one from our selection of Wexford honeys or we can create a beautiful hamper with two or three from our range.

Holos is a beautiful, luxurious, handmade in County Wexford, skincare brand that nourishes skin health and supports skin as it ages. They are made in County Wexford. You can choose from their most popular Anti-Ageing Facial Oil, or their face, body or gift packs.

The range is Vegan and cruelty free.

We have lots of tea lovers who shop with us. Niks loose-leaf teas are an extremely popular Irish brand. One packet might make the perfect stocking filler.

Or we can create a bespoke hamper of your personal favourites. This could include Niks Hemp Chill Out, Salted Carmel, Indian Tulsi, or Mullein. You can choose and we can pack.

If you prefer to go with a

wellness theme you could choose some products from the True Natural Goodness range. Including Acai Powder, Bee Pollen, Chia Seeds, Ceylon Cinnamon, Moringa Powder, Mushroom Blend, Cacao Powder, or Turmeric. We can put these together to create a beautiful wellness hamper for you.

We have our own Natural Health Store branded soy wax candles. These are beautifully made and presented in a glass jar and are naturally scented with pure essential oils. There are several to choose from but Self Love and Full Moon are two that our customers love.

Seer See by Elizabeth Reilly is an Oracle Deck with amazing

artwork by Naomi Kathreen.

This deck is a powerful tool designed to reconnect you to your inner guide. Each card you choose invites you to look beyond the surface and the trust the whispers of your intuition. This might be the gift you want to put on your own wish list!

Some of you may be grappling with loss at the moment.

The Way Home is a beautiful book written by my sister Trudy Meehan, Psychologist to help her daughter make sense of the complicated feelings that followed the tragic loss of her dad.

This is just a small selection of Irish gifts that we can offer.

For more ideas check us out instore or online.

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

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Made in Kilkenny opens 16th annual Christmas Pop-Up Shop in new location on The Parade Made in Kilkenny is delighted to announce the opening of its 16th annual Christmas Pop-Up Shop, taking place this year in a brand-new location — the former KBC Bank building on The Parade, right in the heart of Kilkenny city. The shop will open daily from Saturday, 29th November until Christmas Eve, from 10am to 6pm.

As part of Yulefest Kilkenny, the pop-up shop forms a key element of the city’s festive offering, bringing the very best of local craft to seasonal shoppers and visitors. This year’s venue places Made in Kilkenny at the centre of the city’s Christmas celebrations, offering increased visibility and an exciting new setting for both makers and customers.

The 2025 pop-up brings together 18 professional craft makers, showcasing the exceptional quality and creativity for which Kilkenny is known. Visitors can explore an inspiring selection of work from renowned local makers including Jerpoint Glass, Moth to a Flame Candles, Lydia Smith Ceramics, Gráinne Watts, Cushendale Woollen Mills, Friederike Grace, alongside many

others. From handblown glass and artisan candles to contemporary ceramics, vibrant textiles, and beautifully crafted jewellery, the collection offers a thoughtful and unique choice of gifts for the festive season.

As part of this year’s offering, Made in Kilkenny will also present a special display celebrating the history of craftsmanship in the city, including the legacy of the Kilkenny Design Workshops, the formation of Made in

Kilkenny, and Kilkenny’s recent designation as a World Craft City and Region. This installation highlights the county’s longstanding and internationally recognised commitment to excellence in craft.

With its central new location and exceptional range of locally produced work, the Made in Kilkenny Christmas Pop-Up Shop offers the perfect opportunity to support local makers this Christmas.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

News A Kilkenny cleric is placing a suitcase and a water container under her Christmas tree this year to raise the alarm on the urgent humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the efforts of Christian Aid to help those most in need in the African country.

Methodist Minister Rev Katherine Kehoe is raising awareness of the hundreds of thousands of people who have been displaced from their homes in eastern Congo after fleeing fighting between armed groups and government forces. Eastern Congo is also facing a deepening hunger crisis with one in three people now struggling to get enough food to eat. Rev. Katherine chose the suitcase and water drum to emphasise just how few possessions people are often able to take with them when they are suddenly forced to flee their homes.

Chance is one of those who saw her world turned upside down. When fighting reached her village, Chance witnessed armed men loot her shop and attack her neighbour. Carrying her two-month-old on her back and rallying her seven other children, Chance set off in search of safety. She hasn’t seen her husband since she fled her home.

After walking with her children for 50 miles, Chance found relative safety in a camp for displaced people close to the town of Kalehe in South Kivu – a province in eastern DRC. Now in a temporary shelter, she has nothing of value and fears her husband is dead.

Despite having very young children to care for, Chance does agricultural work in nearby fields, earning around 50c a day to buy food for the family. Chance and other displaced families in South Kivu have been supported by Christian Aid’s local partner, which has provided grants to help people afford the basics.

Rev. Katherine, who leads

Kilkenny cleric raises awareness of war and hunger in eastern Congo

A chance of escape: Chance, a motherof-eight, escaped armed conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Now it’s a bitter battle to protect her children from hunger, malnutrition and deadly diseases PHOTO: Esther Nsapu

A case to consider: Kilkenny Methodist Minister Rev Katherine Kehoe is placing a suitcase and a water container under her Christmas tree this festive season to draw attention to the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo

samond Bennett thanked Rev. Katherine for helping to raise awareness of the crisis in eastern DRC. She said:“We’re grateful to Rev Katherine for helping to highlight the urgent situation in DRC. With her suitcase, she shows just how meagre are the possessions that people can take with them when they flee from fighting.

“Here at home, we’re looking forward to our Christmas celebrations but in DRC, mothers like

the Methodist community of counties Kilkenny and Carlow, supports the work of Christian Aid through her ministry, organising fundraising events and encouraging her congregations to donate.

Christian Aid Ireland Chief Executive Ro-

Chance and her children are struggling to feed themselves after escaping a brutal conflict. The money Rev Katherine helps to raise each year in Kilkenny reaches people like Chance and her children. With your support this Christmas, we could reach even more families.” * To support Christian Aid’s work to reach mothers like Chance this Christmas, please visit caid.ie/Christmas

Russia, and why Ireland is in dangerous waters Ireland could face rolling blackouts and lockdowns for up to six months if our sub-sea gas infrastructure is attacked or damaged, secret government emergency plans reveal.

The Irish Independent is aware of confidential details of an emergency planning exercise held last December between major state agencies and the Government.

Fears over the vulnerability of Ireland’s underwater pipes and cables to Russ­ian sabotage have grown substantially.

This week alone, several vessels under international sanction entered the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

Ireland gets 80% of its energy needs through the sub-sea gas interconnects, and 68% of that goes to the

generation of electricity.

Damage to the interconnecting pipeline from Scotland, via the Isle of Man, could have a catastrophic impact on our economy and the provision of ess­ential services.

Back-up generators for industries including pharma and food production, and hospitals, prisons, universities and airports would

require huge amounts of diesel, as would power stations.

In recent years, and up to now, Russia has deployed a fleet of spy vessels in Irish waters. There have been situations where ships have turned off their transponders and tried to conceal their locations as they loitered over undersea cables.

A mini-submarine has even

been launched from such a vessel.

An incident in November last year, just weeks before the emergency planning exercise on December 3, the Russian naval vessel Yantar loitered directly above the gas interconnector that is controlled

by Gas Networks Ireland.

The Government later carried out an inspection of the pipeline to ensure it had

not been tampered with.

The vessel has been involved in multiple sub-sea cable information gathering incidents and is believed to have returned to Irish waters in recent days.

On the back of the November 2024 incident, and following high-level briefings from energy security experts, the Government agreed to develop a state-led Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU), a large vessel that can store liquefied natural gas and distribute it to the national grid.

However, an industry source said that in the event of damage to the underwater gas pipelines, these reserves would only plug the gap for “a very short period”.

The high-level emergency planning exercise, named

Exercise Cathal, took place on December 3 last year in the Nat­ional Emergency Coordination Centre (NECC) and was attended by more than 80 representatives from all government departments and agencies.

It involved a run-through of responses at different times following the failure of the pipelines. These included the reaction in the immediate aftermath, nine weeks later and then six months later, shortly before the gas supply would be predicted to return.

The contingency measures discussed included immediate, no-notice blackouts.

These would be initiated by ESB Networks, directed by Eirgrid and termed Controlled Demand Reduction.

They would continue on a rota basis.

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News

Kilkenny County Council Arts Act Grants and Residency Bursary announced Arts Act Grant

Kilkenny County Council Arts Office is delighted to announce their annual call out for applications for the Arts Act Grants and Residency Award Bursaries for 2026.

Deadline for all awards is Monday 26th January 2026 at 4pm.

For queries please contact the Arts Office at 0567794547 or email deirdre.southey@ kilkennycoco.ie Arts Act Grants 2026 The 2003 Arts Act permits a local authority to provide financial assistance for the purposes of stimulating public interest in the arts, promoting the knowledge, appreciation and practices of the arts or improving standards in the arts. In this act, the expression ‘the arts’ means creative or interpretative expression (traditional or contemporary) in whatever form and includes in particular visual arts, theatre, literature, music, film, literature, dance and

multi-disciplinary practices and events.

Kilkenny Artists’ Residency Bursary Kilkenny County Council’s Arts Office is offering funding for one-week artists residencies, at Greywood Arts, Cork for 2026. The bursary aims to support both established and emerging practitioners by providing them with dedicated time

Tyrone Guthrie

to research and develop their practice and / or work intensively on a specific body of work relevant to the development of their current arts practice.

Tyrone Guthrie First-Time Artist Residency Bursary Artists across artforms, based in Kilkenny administrative area for a minimum of two years and must be over 18 years old, who can

show achievement in their chosen field. This bursary offers first time applicants the opportunity to spend one week at The Tyrone Guthrie Centre. Providing time to work intensively on a ‘project’ in a dedicated arts environment.

Tyrone Guthrie Performing Arts Residency 2026 The Kilkenny Arts Office and The Watergate Theatre are offering this residency to performing artists working in theatre, music and dance.

Applicants must be based in Kilkenny for a minimum of 2 years and must be over 18 years old. Applications welcome from individual practitioners and two-person collaborations.

Your project or residency must take place within this calendar year – 2026 For further information and to download application forms visit the Arts Office Blog at: Kilkenny County Council Arts Act Grants and Residency Bursary Announced - Kilkenny County Council Arts Ofice

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Pensions: why no one size fits all In years past retirement meant one thing – handing over your pension pot to an insurance company in exchange for an annuity which is a guaranteed income for the rest of your life. That changed in the 1990s with the arrival of Approved Retirement Funds (ARFs), and today retirees face a decision no previous generation ever had to make.

Most people now take their 25% tax-free lump sum first.

For the remaining pot, the options are straightforward – buy an annuity or transfer the money into an ARF. An annuity offers certainty.

It is the only product that removes investment risk entirely. Once bought the provider pays a fixed or indexed income for life and if required the annuity will continue payments to a surviving spouse.

The annuity arrives every month no matter how markets perform or how long you live. But the trade-off is zero

flexibility. The capital is gone forever and unless a spouse’s pension or guarantee period was chosen, it dies with you.

An ARF is the opposite. The

money stays invested. It grows tax free inside the fund, and the owner decides how much income to draw each year. You retain control and any money

left at your death passes straight to your spouse or children. At what cost, you may ask. The cost is risk. The pot can fall in value and crucially

it is possible to run out of money in later old age, something that cannot happen with an annuity.

Age plays a big part. Annuity rates are heavily age dependent. A 55-year-old will receive a far lower annual income than someone buying at 65 or 70 because the provider expects to pay out for longer. Early retirees who are still working often choose an ARF initially and postpone the annuity decision until later when rates become more attractive.

Attitude to risk is the other decisive factor. You could split the pot. You might set up an annuity to cover essential living costs, the mortgage if still there, utilities, groceries.

The balance goes into an ARF for discretionary spending and growth. Even within ARFs choices range from high-risk equities to ultra-cautious deposit accounts.

No one size fits all. For

example, a healthy pensioner with the State pension wishing to pass wealth to children will lean towards an ARF. Whereas someone in poorer health with little other income and no desire for the ups and downs of the Stock Market will certainly be better off with an annuity. There are so many varying choices or options that good independent financial advice at retirement is essential.

Thirty years after ARFs were introduced, retirees have more freedom than ever. But with freedom comes responsibility. Get the balance wrong and you either leave money on the table or risk poverty in later old age.

For the thousands approaching retirement in 2026 the old certainties are gone, and the decision has never been more personal. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 147

"Every day we can choose a different road"

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to present our ‘2025 Christmas short story series’. We invited five Kilkenny based writers to submit a short story or poems each week, which we hope you will enjoy. This is the Observers fifth year promoting creative writing in the community. Week four sees the work of Bob McLoughlin.

What if at Christmas

“Santa has come. If you hurry you might still be able to catch a glimpse of him.” You run out of your bedroom falling into the living room only to see the front door to the house ajar and the cookies and milk half gone

BY BOB MCLOUGHLIN

What if you could be young again? What if it was Christmas Eve and you were eight years old and pretending to be asleep in your bed. Down in the sitting room the tree is full of twinkling lights, decorations, and memories.

How the week before Christmas your father had brought home that tree. He was a man’s man. Tall, broadshouldered, with a deep gruff laugh. Whenever he brought anything home it was as if he had hunted it down and killed it in the wild. He would often walk in the door with a swagger announcing he had the tree, or a toy, or homebaked food from Grandma or whatever. Then he would toss it on the floor and stand over it with his hands on his hips gleaming with pride as if he had killed some ferocious forest animal—or so it seemed

There were carollers, some of them familiar, who came to the door singing Christmas songs in imperfect harmony

to you.

The day before Christmas, your impish mother quizzes you on whether you thought Santa was going to come and what he might be bringing you. It's funny how easily you get caught up in her imagination. She tells you stories of Santa and how he knows who has been good and whose been bad. And you worry.

So, you lay wide awake in bed. Solitary confinement.

Time to let jolly old Santa do his job. He is a busy man, and you needed to do your part.

You lay there staring up at the ceiling, listening for the slightest indication of reindeer hoofs on the roof. You try to sleep with one eye open. You would be ready.

After an eternity your mother finally shouts to you. “Santa has come. If you hurry you might still be able to catch a glimpse of him.” You run out of your bedroom falling into the living room only to see the front door to the house ajar and the cookies and milk half gone. Your mother has placed a large strand of white cotton

on the tree. She says, “Look, Santa rushed away so quickly that he caught part of his beard on the tree.” A souvenir you’d share the next day with all your little friends.

What if you grew up, got married and had children, as people often do. At Christmas when your children were

small you started talking about the elves working away at the North Pole. You told them that Santa was busy reading their letters while the elves created presents that children had dreamt of all year long. You tried to answer their questions but had no idea how much the elves got Father was a man’s man. Tall, broad-shouldered, with a deep gruff laugh. Whenever he brought anything home it was as if he had hunted it down and killed it in the wild

paid, where they slept, or whether they had children of their own. You told them that all you knew was that they were always cheery and loved making presents for children.

Carollers calling There were carollers, some of them familiar, who came to the door singing Christmas songs in imperfect harmony.

You stood with your children in the long lines of anxious kids waiting to see Santa on the stage of the local community centre. You reassured them that yes, he really is Santa. Holiday music played in every store and public buildings were decorated with flickering lights. Bethlehem manger scenes took the hard edge off of city courthouses and Garda stations.

What if your children grew up, moved out, found partners and had children, as people often do. What if one adult child moved to Australia and had two small children.

While your other adult son moved to London where he had a busy job and found

it hard to find time to visit.

His Christmas Day would be spent with his in-laws who made a big deal out of dinner and drinks for their own adult children and friends with titles. Your son and his family would visit after Christmas and he would fall asleep watching the match on the television in the sitting room, exhausted from it all.

What if your wife died after a long illness. Now your two children take turns having you to their homes for Christmas, even though Australia is a long way off. At least you wouldn’t be alone. But their children are now teenagers who aren’t too interested in old people and preferred cash to presents. Christmas family dinners are now always in a hotel restaurant because it’s so much easier.

Asleep on Christmas Eve What if you were taking your daily walk in the town where you have always lived, now without your long dead wife.

And as you walked you remembered being a small boy and pretending to be asleep in your bed on Christmas Eve. How your mother would turn all your Christmas complaints, worries, and moans into the most exciting time of your year. How’d she’d call into your bedroom lit by the early dawn light, “Time to get up. Santa Claus is just leaving.” Running and slipping you’d sprint into the sitting room, now full of wrapped boxes, and the front door would be half open with a bit of Santa’s beard caught on the Christmas tree.

How your present opening is a flurry of tearing, ripping, yelling, touching, playing, showing, and thanking. This Christmas your father bought you the gift he had always wanted himself as a child.

A train set complete with bridges, a town, a timber mill, road crossings, and tiny people. He has it all set up around the Christmas tree and through the sitting room.

You play with your new gifts late into the morning until your mother says to her blurry eyed child that it was almost time for Christmas dinner, that your grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins would soon be arriving. There would be laughter, games, dinner table stories of heroics, and memories of those gone to the great beyond.

What if you could have that again? Wouldn’t that be the best Christmas ever.

Bob McLoughlin has lived in Callan for the last 20 years. He has six self-published books and is currently working on a second memoir.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

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The Watershed

Did you know this about As one of Kilkenny's largest community facilities and a major local employer, The Watershed believes it is important to share accurate information with their customers and the wider public.

The Watershed was built in 2008 as the result of a local authority initiative and investment of twenty million euro and has been operating for seventeen years now, as a self-sufficient and independently managed leisure centre. The Chief Executive reports on the performance of The Watershed to a voluntary Board of elected councillors and independent local business and academic representatives. The facility does not receive financial support from the county council for day to day operations.

The Watershed employs fifty full and part-time staff and provides facilities that are accessible to the entire community. Customers include individuals, families, schools, sports teams, athletic clubs, charitable organisations, national sports organisations and local businesses. Several hundred thousand visitors access The Watershed year on year, with many fantastic customer groups and service providers operating out of the facility. It's wonderful to see the hive of activity that the centre becomes when they open their doors each morning.

The cost of running a leisure centre of its size in the current economic climate is considerable.

The facility's extensive operational costs include wages, insurance, utilities, cleaning, energy, maintenance, equipment, fixtures and fittings, marketing and advertising, VAT, commercial rates and water rates and these are funded solely by the revenue the facility creates. Watershed customers have a key responsibility to maintain their accounts and observe the terms and conditions associated with their bookings and use of the facility. This is very important, as it allows The Watershed to continue providing access to facilities and avoids any disruption to the services upon which their customers' own patrons may rely.

In order to maintain long-term sustainability, The Watershed

must charge standard prices to all customers and user groups and their pricing structure is researched extensively and set in line with current market rates.

They are mandated to break even as a minimum, with any surplus invested back into the upkeep of the facility - which is proving increasingly difficult after seventeen years in operation.

When equipment comes to the end of its life and public areas require upgrading, this must also be covered by The Watershed, like any business.

The Watershed would like to emphasise that hire prices for sports hall, Astroturf pitches, grass pitch and athletics and running track remained static in 2025 and were not increased. Management of The Watershed have recently received false claims that a price increase was applied to the hire of these areas. The facility hire price list is published on https://www. thewatershed.ie/multi-sportsfacilities/ and the management team are currently reviewing all prices for 2026.

Watershed staff are very proud to serve the local community and want their customers to understand how they operate and how they are funded and in particular, to understand that The Watershed

funds itself. Thank you to the local authorities for establishing The Watershed in 2008 and thank you especially to all the wonderful members, customer groups, clubs and patrons for their ongoing loyalty and support.

In summary – Is The Watershed funded by Kilkenny County Council?

No, The Watershed is financially self-sufficient since day one and does not receive any subvention for day to day operations.

Who pays for the running of The Watershed?

All operational costs and overheads are covered entirely by The Watershed, through revenue generated from the services they provide. Customers who maintain their accounts in good standing contribute to the revenue generated.

Should some customer groups receive special rates or subsidies?

The Watershed are not in a position to subsidise customer groups, they cannot afford to do this and this is not their role. Customer groups should approach the relevant government organisations if they require funding support for their operations.

What about the grants that The Watershed was reported to have received?

The Watershed applied for a LargeScale Sports Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF) grant in 2023. The LSSIF is a grant scheme which can provide funding for significant sports facility projects and the project for The Watershed was building enhancement and renovation works.

LSSIF grants can cover up to 70% of the project costs with the balance of funding required to be provided by the local authorities. In The Watershed’s case, the LSSIF grant was provisionally awarded in 2023, as was reported in the media at the

time. However, the project could not proceed as the required balance of funding could not be provided by the local authorities due to an escalation in costs, which had risen to far exceed the estimates provided at the time of initial application.

LSSIF grants are only paid when a project moves forward, therefore no grant funding was issued to The Watershed.

Have hire prices increased in 2025?

No, the hire rates for sports hall, Astroturf pitches, athletics/running track and grass pitches did not increase in 2025. Pricing for 2026 is currently in review.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Twenty-Fives for Turkeys, a memory to forget I love a game of cards.

Twenty-Fives to be precise.

I can’t, however, remember the last time I played nor do I know where you’d find a game going on these days.

Time was when card-playing was quite popular – in pubs, note. Not in fancy lounges with exotic drinks and piped music. Twenty-Fives was especially popular around Christmas when three teams of three played each other in what was called a Nine for Turkeys.

My father loved a game of Twenty-Fives and played in Seán Byrnes while my father-in-law, Aussie Murphy, played in Tallents (now Cleere’s) and in the backroom of the Marble City Bar. I played a little in Mickey Brennan’s (now The Field) Was I any good?

Well, here’s a piece I wrote a good many years ago which will answer that question:

This time of year you may indeed behold: groups of men, and women, huddled together in nooks and corners of their local hostelries and watering holes. A certain tension hovers about these gatherings which segregates them from the ordinary hub-bub and murmur of the other drinkers.

Eyes serious and alert, foreheads wrinkled in concentration, conversation is limited to monosyllabic grumbles and grunts and the occasional yelp of excitement. Pints, half pints, sit silently between their legs like faithful mongrels while orders for refills are conveyed to the bar in coded nods and gestures.

This could be a plot to rig the Sheep Dog Trials. But it’s not. These men and women are making up a Nine for the coveted Christmas Bird.

The game, of course, is the holy game of Twenty-Fives

and these nine masters of their craft will weave from Lady Luck and skill, an art form that leaves chess and Chinese checkers in the shade.

Make no mistake – Twenty-Fives for Turkeys is a real man’s game. You need the icy coolness of a Bjorn Borg, the guts and courage of a Welsh prop forward and the mental alacrity of a pocket calculator. Instinct is vital: knowing when to poke or prod, lead up, try a shortcorner, stay at home or come your best.

Memory is next to Godliness: who played what, who robbed, who reneged, who failed to trump and who is it coming in to [do so]. A slip-up spells disaster and labels you a bungler for the rest of your card-playing days.

And so it happened that I was lured from the comfort of my bar-stool one night

many, many moons ago, to make up a Nine. An innocent at large ie. a card-

“Pints, half pints, sit silently between their legs like faithful mongrels . .

playing innocent, I hummed and hawed and hesitated, especially as I had never played a Nine before. Not to worry. Couldn’t I play Twenty-Fives and sure I’d pick it up as I went along.

Card players find themselves in this dilemma occasionally – short one player, they’ll settle for anyone to keep the game alive. They hadn’t bargained on me. My first mistake was being too friendly.

Shaking hands with everyone was not, I realised, in hindsight, quite de rigeur for the game of Nines. Nor was it necessary to talk profusely about the big match coming up, the inclement weather and the possibility of a White Christmas. My partners looked long and hard into my eyes, trying to assess my card-playing pedigree. They weren’t impressed. I smiled too much and talked too much instead

of seeming hell-bent on stabbing my opponents to death with the lone Ace of Hearts.

To make matters worse I got fistfuls of trumps and squandered each and every one of them. Spilling my drink didn’t help matters either or having my missus ring up in mid-deal, reminding me to bring home milk for the breakfast. Blunder after blunder I made and not even the proffering of a round of drinks could appease my partners’ fury.

Needless to say we didn’t win the Christmas bird. Nor was I ever invited to participate in a Nine for Turkeys again. A card-shark in the company summed me up as I left: “Huh, card player, how are ya.”

PS: The most interesting game of Twenty-Fives I ever played was on the top of a coffin lid. But that, as they say, is another story.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Let’s celebrate natural beauty not cosmetics for kids!

Great… just in time for Christmas! Make up for kids as young are 4. Another gullible market to exploit!! Do kids need make up? Definitely not. Why are companies creating it? Profits of course.

This is such an uncomfortable issue with many ramifications for mind, body and spirit.

Firstly, let’s look at the use of make-up amongst tweens and teens. Some already follow skin care routines and in some cases use anti-aging products! Young skin is fragile and goes through many changes, especially at puberty and should be treated with care and respect.

The Renfrew Centre Foundation reports that 20% of girl teens feel insecure/ self-conscious and unattractive without makeup. Only 5% feel more attractive bare-faced, nearly 58% of young girls wear some makeup and 65% start between 8 and 13. The reasons range from bullying

to social media.

Market Research Future estimates that the global children’s cosmetic market will reach $1.79 billion by 2026. What are we doing to our youngsters? To their minds and bodies. This should be a real concern.

Many multi-national brands, like many global corporations are very clever.

They invest millions figuring out how we think, what we want and how to trigger FOMO (fear of missing out).

Rather than promoting confidence and self-worth, these companies are selling dependence to girls who feel incomplete without makeup.

Profit trumps ethics! Follow the money.

The growing pressure to meet unattainable beauty standards by a younger and younger age group is abhorrent and can have life threatening consequences.

Eg. anorexia. Manufacturers and influencers should take responsibility for the

messages they are pushing on youngsters.

Look at most of the “influencers”, they look like clones and would be “Love Island” contestants and it’s these people that many young girls in our society want to copy from a very young age. When I was young, as a Hippie, everyone wanted to be an individual and to express themselves by the original clothes they wore or by being different from the norm. Now it seems that everyone wants to look the same.

Big influential brands are influencing our ideas of beauty. When did great big pouty lips start to be perceived as beauty and the “must have” for countless women? Have you noticed the trends? Long fake nails, fake tans, scary eyebrows, ultraeyelashes, puffy lips, long straight hair, not to mention the tattoos and piercings. To me it’s just plain weird, as these accoutrements make

women look very odd and not naturally attractive. Where is natural beauty?

It’s a tragic fact that if you ask many women about their body, they are often unsatisfied with their shape, size, height, nose, bum, etc… the list goes on.

37 years ago, as one of the

“Let children grow confident in natural, unfiltered beauty

founders of The Irish Massage Therapist’s Association and many times, president, I have seen hundreds of bodies, all shapes, sizes, good and poor health, young and old, each one, different and every single one has a story. With age, people tended to feel more comfortable with their body but that has also changed.

Thousands are getting surgery on so many different body parts and I’m not only referring to women. Men too!

Is the gym craze all about health? Yes, and a lot about comparison. Many gyms are full of mirrors. I wonder why?

As a society, we have many important issues to tackle and confidence is a big one. Mental health, lack of self-esteem, self-expression, body image etc ..they are all interlinked and if people think that surgery and make up are the answers we have a long way to go. They are the symptoms not the causes of disconnect. Disconnect from self, from other, from

community and from Nature. It’s all connected. It’s disconnect bred by insecurity, created by clever marketing and an eye on big money.

More pressure, more profits!

Remember Pamela Anderson? Baywatch? I thought she was an airhead but no…. she’s wonderful :YouTube: “ How To Fail : Pamela Anderson Redefining Beauty.” It’s part of the Dove Self Esteem Project, a vision of a world where beauty is a source of confidence not anxiety, helping girls develop and increase body confidence and self-acceptance.

What can we do to not buy into all the myths that are being forced upon us? We do have choices. The question I always ask myself is, “Is it natural?” If yes, fine… if no, forget about it! www.judithashton.com Youtube :Ted X Judith Ashton The Power and Importance of Human Touch

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Health & Beauty tirachardz

Healthy indulgence PRESENTS Whether they’re into pampering, skin health or staying active, these Christmas gifts offer something for every type of wellness lover. A perfect blend of beauty, fitness and relaxation.

Sanctuary Spa Pamper Hamper: If someone on your list deserves a long soak and some serious “me time”, this lovely pamper hamper is your secret weapon. Packed with indulgent lotions, scrubs and bath treats, it turns even the quickest shower into a mini getaway. Think cosy winter nights, fluffy robes and skin that feels spoilt rotten. A perfect pick for anyone who talks about booking a spa day… but never actually does. Boots - €29.25 (sale price).

Flu season strikes early HEALTH Flu season has landed early in Kilkenny - and last week’s warning is already proving true. As reported in these pages, flu cases doubled in just seven days, and now St Luke’s General Hospital is feeling the strain, with unusually high levels of influenza both on the wards and in the community. The HSE is urging anyone with symptoms - even mild ones like a cough, sore throat, blocked nose or fever - not to visit the hospital to help protect vulnerable patients.

If you must attend St Luke’s for an appointment, the ad-

vice is simple: wear a mask, sanitise your hands often, avoid ward bathrooms and stay away entirely if you’ve had symptoms in the previous 48 hours.

While most people can manage flu symptoms at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter remedies, stopping the flu before it starts is still the strongest defence. The HSE is reminding everyone in Kilkenny that vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness this winter.

And if you’re planning to get your flu jab in the coming days, what you eat and drink

can make the experience a little smoother. Staying well hydrated beforehand - with water or herbal tea - helps prevent dizziness or lightheadedness. Pair that with a light snack containing protein and slow-release carbohydrates, like a banana with nut butter, yoghurt with oats or wholegrain toast. These steady your blood sugar levels and help keep you feeling comfortable during the appointment (Medical News Today, 2025; Routhenstein; Ünlüişler).

After your vaccine, your immune system gets to work building protection. A nutrient-rich meal can help ease

temporary side effects such as mild aches or low-grade fever. Think lean protein for antibody production, vegetables and mushrooms for fibre and immune-supporting beta-glucans, probiotics for gut health and berries or citrus for a hit of vitamin C (Rolt, 2025).

Anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric or oily fish may also help without interfering with your immune response.

Hydration matters just as much afterwards as before.

Water, herbal teas or soup can support circulation and help reduce common postvaccine symptoms such as fatigue, headaches or muscle soreness (Ünlüişler, 2025).

Shimmer, sparkle and shine this festive season BEAUTY ‘Tis the season to sparkle literally! With parties, family gatherings and New Year’s celebrations around the corner, it’s the perfect time to play with bold, dazzling beauty looks. This year, it’s all about shimmer, colour and a little cheeky retro glamour.

Go wild with metallic eyeshadows in gold, silver or rose gold, or add a pop of glitter eyeliner that catches

every twinkle of the Christmas lights. Lips are making a statement too - think glossy reds, deep berries or a sneaky dab of shimmer for extra festive flair. And don’t forget the glow: highlighter isn’t just for cheekbones anymore - a dab on the nose bridge or inner eye corners gives you that radiant, party-ready sparkle.

Nails are joining the fun with jewel tones, glitter gradients or metallic foils - perfect for that extra touch of magic.

Freepik

Hair isn’t left out either; festive plaits, sleek ponytails or even a fun temporary colour can turn any look into an instant showstopper.

Whether you’re heading to a swanky cocktail bar or a cosy family gathering, this season is about having fun, experimenting and letting your personality shine through.

After all, the best accessory you can wear this Christmas and New Year is confidence… with a little sparkle on top.

No7 Skincare Discovery Set: For the friend who loves a glow-up opportunity, this is like handing over a ready-made skincare routine in a bow. With day cream, night cream, toner, cleanser and serum, it’s basically a cheat sheet for great skin. Ideal for the person who’s “thinking about starting a routine” but hasn’t quite made it past micellar water. A little bit practical, a little bit luxe - just right for the season. Boots - €26.

Rituals Sakura Gift Set: Winter blahs, meet cherry blossom bliss.

This beautifully scented Rituals set brings a gentle touch of spring into the festive season, with rich shower foam and soothing moisturisers. It’s perfect for anyone who loves a good scent-driven escape - or just wants a fancier shower experience than their usual supermarket body wash.

A small but mighty mood-lifter.

Rituals - €27.90.

Fitbit Sense 2 Smartwatch: Got someone who likes their wellness with a dose of stats? This smartwatch tracks everything from sleep to stress to steps, making it an ideal companion for New Year motivation. Whether they’re walking, running or just chasing the dog around the garden, it turns everyday movement into a mini win. A great “fresh start” gift without being preachy. Arnotts - €199 (sale price).

RENPHO Massage Gun: Know someone who always says, “Ah, my shoulders are in bits”? This massage gun might just make you their favourite person. It helps melt away tightness, post-gym aches or seasonal tension (yes, even the one caused by Christmas shopping). Perfect for gym lovers, desk warriors or anyone who goes dramatic when they stand up and say, “Oof, I’m getting old.” Amazon.ie - €69.99.

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Opinion called. Women golfers were unheard of in those far-off days, though they began to make an appearance as the century progressed.

In the 30s and 40s, Callan had two tennis courts.

One was in West Street. This catered for the perceived uppercrust players of the town and district. The one at Mallardstown had a lower subscription fee and a far higher membership but was snubbed- very politely of course- by the West Street players as a riffraff sporting venue to be avoided by anyone hoping to reach the apex of the social ladder.

In the absence of an alley, handball was played against the bacon factory wall. The game of Skittles was all the rage up to the early fifties.

Pitches sprung up on side streets in Callan and at crossroads outside the town.

Pitch and Toss was another open-air sport that occupied the leisure time of Callan folk. The main venue was underneath a lamplight at the Bacon Factory. The illumination meant that games could continue well into the hours of Spectators at 1932 hurling match on Callan darkness. It was also fair Green. Included are, from left: Tom played in Ballylarkin Meagher, James Shaughnessy, Dr. Frank on Sunday afterWalsh, Ned Downey (man beside him noons. unknown), Paddy Holden. Seated: P. Hogan.

For each game, a medium sized flat stone was positioned on an even surface.

The players then pitched coins towards the stone. The first toss was then awarded to the competitor who had landed his coin nearest the stone. The actual distances between the target and the coins were measured by a trawMill Street Callan 1955 neen- a stem of strong grass.

Then the real sport and circulated rope without touchand kick the stone into square You were penalised also if you memthe gambling got undering it. number two. He or she conlost your balance and your bership mainly to "profesway. Bets were placed on Both boys and girls loved tinued this procedure until other foot touched the ground sional men" like doctors, the outcome of each toss, the hopscotch. For this, a large the whole circuit had been within the rectangle. You bank officials, chemists, a few result depending on whether

BY JOHN rectangle was drawn on a road completed. weren’t allowed to "put your "gentleman farmers", and a coin landed "heads" or FITZGERALD or pavement and divided into But this was difficult, befoot in it". wealthy men of leisure. harps." When successful, you eight squares. The squares cause you were eliminated if The golf links at Geraldine With few cars on the road, collected your winnings from In previous articles I recountwere numbered from one to the stone happened to land came into its own in the late golfers arrived on bikes with a neat pile of bank notes, and ed the exploits of the barefoot eight. A flat stone was laid in on a dividing line between 20s, attracting a fair number their bags of clubs strapped to silver and copper coins. hurlers on Callan's Fair Green the square marked Number two numbers or if you kicked of members from the district. their backs and wearing "Plus The "tosser" on which a coin in the early years of the 20th One. Then the first player it outside the big rectangle Subscription fees were high Fours" or "Oxford Bags", as was placed to be flung into century. From late springtime, would have to hop on one foot containing the eight squares. in the early days, confining its their distinctive trousers were the air consisted of a six inch all through the summer, and long by one and a half inches for most of autumn, budding wide piece of wood. The eyes and experienced hurlers pracof all the gamblers and fans tised day after day, honing followed the trajectory of their skills. each coin upwards with bated The same venue played host breath, and hearts thumped to other recreations. Footas the sparkling unit of curballers often used a pig’s bladrency came hurtling back to der to kick around the pitch, earth. and cricket was played on the Some men bet their whole Green, sometimes with batweek's wages on the tossing, tered hurleys serving as bats. a fact deplored by succesBut cricket never really caught sive parish priests in Callan on in Callan, partly due to a who preached against the perceived link with "foreign evils of excessive gambling. oppressors."

"For what" one cleric asked, Women and girls went to "would it benefit a man were the Green too, but mainly to he to win a full twenty pounds watch the lads playing. They on the toss and then lose his liked to avail of the seating immortal soul?" that the Town Commissioners The good priest may have had erected in the 1900s, or had a point: A Callan man in to bring along rugs that they the 1950s gambled his motor spread across the grass and boat on the outcome of a toss lay down upon. The favouand lost the bet!

John Locke's Callan team 1964: Back row. L to r: G. Woodgate, J. Grace, T. Maher, R. Lynch, D. O' Sullivan, P. Tobin, P. Corcoran, TJ Hogan, J. Tobin, P. rite game among girls was Leahy. Middle Row: S. Holden, S. O' Brien, T. Rochford, J. Walsh, J. O'Dwyer, J. Cuddihy, T. Donovan, M. Lynch, E. Nolan, J. Gardiner. Front: K. Breen, skipping, a healthy pastime To be continued...

B. Power. that involved jumping over a

Part one

Recreation in Old Callan

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Road works and a Christmas twinkle for north Kilkenny Inset: Photo cred John Coffey, Clogh Main: Sharon Brennan, Kevin Phillips and Cllr John Brennan taking centre stage

Local Fine Gael Councillor John Brennan has stated that he is pleased with progress on a number of local projects in north Kilkenny. Work

on new traffic measures for Clogh Village is near completion. Road works are completed in north Kilkenny including Clogh,

Moneenroe, Castlecomer and all of north Kilkenny. A number of laneways have been completed under the Local Improvement Scheme and Community Involvement Council Schemes. Works on Chapel Lane Moneenroe are also due to be completed next year and the extension and completion of the public lights in Chapel Lane Moneenroe. Cllr Brennan stated that this is very positive news for north Kilkenny.

On another note, recently, Cllr Brennan was asked to turn on the Christmas lights in Clogh village. It was a lovely evening and it was a great event for the community. There was a fabulous atmosphere with choir singing, hot chocolate, mulled wine and a raffle with plenty of prizes in the Clogh Village Bar afterwards.

Santa Claus and Cllr John Brennan arrived by special Garda escort. The village erupted with cheers when the lights were turned on by Cllr Brennan. The work put into organising and arranging the evening paid off and the village looks fantastic with the christmas lights and lovely decorations. Well done to all!

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News

Virtual Treasury of Ireland Roadshow visits Kilkenny’s Mayfair Library is down to the excellent venue and the equally excellent library team. A full house and lots of chat afterwards is always a good sign!”

County Librarian Josephine Coyne commented, “This rich treasury of records provides vital access to all interested in Irish history and brings ordinary lives buried in official documents back into the light.”

Speakers included Alicia Dunphy (Kilkenny Library Local Studies), Ciarán Wallace, Lynn Kilgallon, and Brian Gurrin from the Virtual Treasury team, who presented insights into the project’s research and its significance for Kilkenny.

Alicia Dunphy, Local Studies Department, Fiona Deegan, Director of Service Kilkenny County Council, Josephine Coyne County Librarian, Dr. Ciarán Wallace, DR. Lynn Kilgallon, and Dr. Brian Gurrin from the Virtual Treasury t

The Statute of Kilkenny – A Landmark Publication

The evening concluded with the launch of The Statute of Kilkenny (1366), edited by Dr. Keith Busby and published by the Irish Manuscripts Commission. The Statute, passed in Kilkenny in 1366, is one of medieval Ireland’s most controversial documents, reflecting efforts to regulate relations between English settlers and the Gaelic Irish.

Remarks were delivered by professor John McCafferty (Chair, IMC) and Dr. Peter Crooks (Co-Director, VRTI), highlighting the historical and cultural significance of this work.

For further information contact: Alicia Dunphy by email: alicia.dunphy@ kilkennycoco.ie.

“Statutes of Kilkenny” book

Photos by Ro Kilkenny County Council Library Service proudly hosted the Virtual Treasury Roadshow at Mayfair Library on Tuesday, 25 November, offering the public a unique opportunity to explore Kilkenny’s rich history through cutting-edge digital

resources.

The evening also marked the launch of the Irish Manuscripts Commission’s latest publication: The Statute of Kilkenny, edited by renowned scholar Dr. Keith Busby.

The Virtual Record Treasury of Ireland is an ambitious project that restores access to

seven centuries of Irish history lost during the destruction of the Public Record Office in 1922. Since its launch in June 2022, the Treasury has provided free online access to tens of thousands of reconstructed records over 50 million words of searchable text sourced from seventy

archives worldwide.

The Kilkenny Roadshow, attended by over 80 people, showcased how these digital records illuminate the lives of local communities in Kilkenny from medieval times to the 19th century. Dr. Ciarán Wallace commented, “It was a most successful event, which

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Mike Kelly

Unwavering commitment sees Mike receive Lifetime Achievement Award

By Ger Cody

for giving them a place to attend as youngsters and for bestowing on them a love for the arts.

One man explained that as a youngster, sport held no place for him, either to attend or participate in. “I found my niche with Mike and the team at Film Makers and will be forever grateful for that,” he said. As he spoke those words, 60 plus heads nodded in agreement.

Last June, Mike Kelly turned 80. In July, at the St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall on the Butts Green, Mike was treated to a surprise birthday party. It was organised by a group of young men and women from the Arts sector who wanted to thank Mike for all he had done for them, Mike Kelly (third from left) at the Kilkenny Chamber Awards night both on and off stage. There with (from left) nephew Mike Kelly, niece Lorraine Kelly, Anne was a sharp intake of breath Barber (President of Chamber) and Paul Kelly (nephew). Photo for Mike as he entered the Vicky Comerford, by kind permission of Kilkenny Chamber room to be greeted by over Confelicity 60 theatre and film practitioWhile there is great depth ners applauding their former and meaning to his life, there director. is also a beautiful simplicity Last week, at Lyrath Estate about Mike Kelly. What you Hotel, Mike was once again see is what you get. What honoured. This time, in probably stands out most of an event run by Kilkenny all in his contribution to the Chamber of Commerce, Mr Arts, or indeed life in general, Kelly received the Lifetime is his joy when something Achievement Award. The works out for another. He Board of Kilkenny Chamber sows the seed for the flower congratulated Mike saying to blossom. He has a lovely, that he was indeed a worthy indeed rare, gift of delighting recipient of the award. in another person's success.

A proud Butts man, Mike The word ‘confelicity’ covers Kelly came home to Kilkenny it nicely, describing a feeling from London in 1991 and of shared happiness or joy at A 2018 production of Trad by Lake Productions, staged at Cleere’s founded Young Irish Film someone else’s good fortune Theatre, saw a cast of Mike Kelly, Joe Murray and Derek Dooley.

Makers (YIFM), which went or success.

Photo Danny Lahart on to give Cartoon Saloon Since he directed his first its start by providing office play for youngsters in the Frispace, computers, and staff ary Hall in 1965, Mike simply pastimes for youngsters, Such was their love for the through the FÁS scheme. hasn’t stopped. He can look didn’t hold an attraction for octogenarian. And those YIFM has since become back on some great achieveteenagers who were desperwho could not attend sent one of the cornerstones of ments on the theatrical front ately looking for an activity to good wishes thanking Mike Kilkenny’s creative comspark their artistic desires. munity, it runs the National They found it with Mike Youth Film and Animation Kelly. And some.

School and offers afterBack to the 80th birthday school classes for local chilcelebrations for a moment. dren. Over the years, it has As the well wishers from launched countless creative Dreamstuff and Young Irish careers and contributed to a Film Makers arrived, one thriving local arts scene. was reminded of the amazYIFM alumni include Rory ing talent that came out of Fleck Byrne, now a Hollyboth stables. From Donegal, wood actor; Stephen Colfer, Cork, Dublin and many who co-founded Dreamgun other far flung places, they Film Reads (a live comarrived. edy show that tours internationally); and The Queen of Kilkenny theatre, members who went Kitty Drohan showing her on to form Mycrofilms, make-up skills as she ages Dreamstuff Youth a young Mike Kelly before a Theatre, and Devious performance at Stallard’s Theatre. John Morton Theatre Patrick Street and Peter McGann, both YIFM alumni, recently sold a play they wrote for Devious Theatre to Sony Pictures, adapting it into a TV series. Stephen Colfer also currently has a short film, GAP, on the festival circuit.

But it is more than who went on to make a career from the Arts.

During his time as a Mayor John Coonan cuts the birthday cake for Mike director at YIFM, Kelly Kelly’s 80th at The Neighbourhood Hall in the Butts. gave a new lease of life Photo jbs to youngsters for whom sport, one of the integral

Kilkenny man Mike Kelly receives the Kilkenny Chamber’s Lifetime Achievement Award from Chamber CEO John Hurley. Photo Vicky Comerford, by kind permission of Kilkenny Chamber

which includes setting up both Dreamstuff theatre and Young Irish Film Makers.

Indeed it was from the helping hand given by Mike, that Cartoon Saloon was born.

Not too shabby for your CV. Of course Mike was well recognised as an actor himself, in the days when venues included Stallards, The Presentation Hall, The Friary Hall, St Kieran’s College and the CYMS. He performed in numerous shows with various companies including such shows as My Three Angels, Da, A Man for All Seasons, She Stoops to Conquer and Billy Liar. In recent years, Mike has worked with Lake Productions on Trad and War of the Worlds.

He continues to work with young people and is very active with the Fr McGrath centre in his beloved Butts.

Kelly always believed that if you’re passionate about your work, the

busyness feels more like a joy than a chore.

This probably sums up his work. Perhaps his Shakespearean work in the Arts while in England and Australia is an article for another day. Or to quote the Bard “To business that we love we rise betimes and go ‘t with delight.” (Antony and Cleopatra)

Dedication There is a beautiful and resonant word in Irish culture - ‘dúthracht’ which carries a profound significance. It embodies the essence of dedication and devotion, qualities deeply ingrained in the Irish spirit. In the context of Irish culture, ‘dúthracht’ represents an unwavering commitment to one's beliefs, passions, and responsibilities.

It reflects the determination to persevere through challenges and obstacles, staying true to one's chosen path.

Whether it's in the realm of music, where musicians pour their hearts and souls into their craft, or in the monastic sites of old where monks built their lives around unwavering devotion, ‘dúthracht’ underscores the importance of wholehearted dedication.

It's a reminder that, in Irish culture, genuine commitment is not just a virtue; it's a way of life, a force that shapes and sustains the cultural and Mike Kelly (Counsel for the spiritual heritage Defence) and Jack Lanigan of Ireland. In other (Counsel for the Prosecution) in words, never giving a 1960s production of On Trial, up. That, dear reader, staged at the Presentation is Mike Kelly, winConvent Kilkenny ner of the Lifetime Achievement Award.

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Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, welcomes major improvements to the Assessment of Need (AON) Process Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has welcomed major reforms to the Assessment of Need process introduced under the Disability (Amendment) Act 2025, describing them as a long-overdue shift toward a system that is faster, fairer, and genuinely centred on children’s needs. He said the updated framework will finally ease long delays and ensure families are no longer trapped in bureaucratic processes that prevent timely access to essential supports. The redesigned AON system will streamline procedures so that reports are delivered more efficiently and with a clearer focus on identifying what each child requires rather than generating lengthy diagnostic documents. Eleven expert clinical teams—including psychologists, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists—will operate nationwide to accelerate assessment delivery, cut waiting lists, and ensure that children receive the interventions they need at the earliest possible stage. McGuinness said this shift will free therapists to spend more time working directly with children instead of completing unnecessary administrative tasks.

He also highlighted the upcoming Autism Assessment & Intervention Protocol, due to launch in February 2026.

This autism-specific pathway, led mainly by psychologists, is designed to produce faster results than the traditional AON model.

By providing a more focused and efficient

process, the protocol aims to deliver earlier diagnosis and earlier intervention for families who have often endured long delays during already challenging periods. McGuinness said this would reduce stress for parents and give children a better chance of receiving timely developmental supports.

Budget 2026 will further strengthen disability services, with €20 million allocated for private clinical assessments to fund 6,000 additional assessments next year. In addition, 150 new staff will join Children’s Disability Services in 2026, and 460 new training places for Health and Social Care Professionals will expand the longterm supply of therapists. McGuinness said that while private assessments will help clear current backlogs, the true priority is building a strong, multidisciplinary public system capable of meeting future demand.

He also praised changes to the education system, where professional diagnostic reports will no longer be required for entry to special schools or special classes. This reform will reduce pressure on families and prevent children from being denied supports simply because they are waiting for documentation.

McGuinness said these reforms reflect concerns raised by parents and disability advocates, marking meaningful progress while acknowledging that further improvements will still be needed.

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New shows added to immersive Christmas experience in Kilkenny Starlight by Luxmuralis extends festive ‘Son et Lumiere’

New shows have been added to the immersive Christmas experience, Starlight by Luxmurialis, making its Irish debut at St Canice’s Cathedral this December.

The 35-minute 360° experience brings audiences on an immersive celestial journey through a series of light, sound, and fine-art projections, culminating in a powerful retelling of the Nativity story. For eight nights (14th December to 21st December), Starlight will transform the 800-year-old interior of St Canice's Cathedral into a vast canvas of moving light projections and cinematic soundscapes.

Due to demand, organisers have extended the run, adding extra weekend shows from 8.30 pm plus an early midweek viewing from 4.30 pm. Organisers say it is more than a light show, “Starlight by Luxmuralis combines fine art tradition with contemporary storytelling, offering an unforgettable Christmas experience that appeals to families, art lovers, and festival goers alike.” Explains Luxmuralis Art Director, Peter Walker.

“Luxmuralis pioneered the use of sacred and heritage spaces for immersive light and sound exhibitions, making

ancient buildings feel alive, accessible, and emotionally resonant in new ways.

Audiences are not simply spectators. They become part of the art itself as they walk through these radiant, sensory stories.”

Luxmuralis crafts multisensory experiences, uses cutting-edge projection technology, and original composition. A reimagining of the tradition of ‘Son et Lumière’, a French art form dating back over 100 years, meaning ‘sound and light’ for the 21st century. Luxmuralis has been seen by 1.2 million people worldwide.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to host Starlight by Luxmuralis this December.” Commented Rev. Stephen Farrell, Dean of Ossory, “To have such a new, state-of-the-art art form inside a building that is already incredibly beautiful and aweinspiring, telling a story that is ancient and timeless really speaks to what we’re about in the Cathedral.

I hope that people from across Ireland will come and spend some time in the peace of the Cathedral, in a totally immersive lights and soundscape, to ponder for themselves that age-old promise we celebrate at Christmas.”

Running from 14 to 21 December, Starlight by Luxmuralis is the highlight of the Yulefest Kilkenny celebrations. Visitors are encouraged to book early.

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Homes & Gardens Gift Kilkenny PRESENTS This Christmas, choose local. From practical garden treats to timeless crafted pieces, these County Kilkenny favourites make gifting easy - and meaningful.

Location, location, location …

Garden treats: Give the gardener in your life the gift of choice! The digital gift card from Easter Island Garden Centre (Dublin Road, Kilkenny) can be used on anything from bulbs to bird feeders.

Available from €25 to €150 - ideal for plant addicts, patio-pot stylists and anyone who can’t pass a garden centre without popping in. easterislandgardencentre.ie

18 WALTON’S GROVE, MOUNT JULIET ESTATE, THOMASTOWN | €850,000 | 4 BEDS | 3 BATHS | 221 SQM HOUSE OF THE WEEK Semi-detached? Yes. On the grounds of Mount Juliet? Also yes - and that’s the real headline here. This spacious fourbed offers comfort, privacy and a long list of upgrades, but let’s be honest: you’re also buying bragging rights. And quite nice ones at that.

The double-height living room delivers immediate drama, with timber ceilings, huge feature windows and

a woodburner on a feature stone base that practically demands you curl up beside it. French doors spill out to a sunny patio, while the dining room opens onto an impressively kitted-out barbecue area - marble floors, extendable roof, the works.

A bright kitchen/breakfast room, utility, guest bedroom with en suite and dressing room complete the ground floor. Upstairs, three more bedrooms (one en suite) keep

things practical for family life or visiting golf-mad friends.

Recent upgrades include solar panels, new windows and doors, high-speed fibre broadband and a jacuzzi for when you need to recover from the emotional toll of living somewhere this nice. Parking for 3-4 cars and a golf buggy (!) plus handy outdoor storage complete the picture.

Living on the Mount Juliet Estate means golf, dining, river walks, horse riding and spa

time are all close enough to make your friends roll their eyes at your good fortune. The cul-de-sac setting in Walton’s Grove adds peace and privacy - ideal for those who like their luxury with a side of quiet.

A handsome house in an enviable setting, this one’s all about lifestyle - and the rare chance to call one of Kilkenny’s most coveted addresses home.

Agent: Hooke & MacDonald

Cut your Christmas energy bill HOME SMART With ovens blasting, lights twinkling and heating running longer than usual, the week before Christmas can send energy bills soaring. But a few smart tweaks can keep things cosy without costing a fortune.

Turn down, don’t turn off: If you’re expecting a house full, turn the heating down by one degree - extra bodies, cooking and warm lighting will naturally raise the temperature.

Keep doors closed to retain heat where you need it.

Be oven savvy: Your oven is the most expensive appliance in the kitchen, so make it work hard. Batch cook sides while it’s already hot, avoid constant door-opening and use the fan setting if you have it - it cooks faster and more efficiently.

Slow cookers and air fryers are great for anything that

doesn’t need the full oven.

Switch to LEDs (everywhere): Fairy lights can be surprisingly cheap to run, if they’re LED. If yours are older or unlabeled, it’s worth upgrading now - LED lights use up to 10 times less electricity and stay cool to the touch. Put them on a timer so they’re not glowing away into the early hours.

Watch the standby drain: Game consoles, streaming sticks and speakers all draw power even when not in use.

A simple rule for Christmas week: if you’re going to bed or heading out, switch them off fully.

Mind the immersion: The immersion works hardest during Christmas hosting. Use it in short bursts and avoid leaving it on “just in case”. Most families don’t need more than 30-40 minutes to heat a tank.

Crafted Christmas: Add a pop of colour to Christmas with Jerpoint Glass Studio’s hand-blown baubles, swirled in gorgeous shades of Seascape, Heather and Berry. Each piece is crafted in their Co. Kilkenny studio, making it a perfect Irish-made gift for design lovers at home or abroad.

At 8cm wide, they’re ideal for trees, wreaths or festive displays. €25 each. jerpointglass.com Seasonal sips: A winter classic with a handcrafted twist. Nicholas Mosse’s holly-and-ivy mug is made in Bennettsbridge using a meticulous 20-step process, resulting in durable, elegant tableware. Perfect for cosy mugs of hot chocolate or spiced cider, it’s a lovely locally made gift for the season. €34. nicholasmosse. com Cosy luxury: For a gift that feels truly special, the Azure Glynn Lambswool Throw Blanket delivers. Made in the Cushendale mill in Graiguenamanagh - weaving since 1778 - this 100 per cent Merino lambswool blanket is hank-dyed and hand-finished for exceptional softness. A beautiful, long-lasting addition to any home. €190. cushendale.ie Equine elegance: Looking for something truly unique? Claire Molloy’s horsehair ceramics are crafted in her Kilmoganny studio using hair from her own horses, which burns into the hot clay to form beautiful, unpredictable black patterns. Simple, natural and full of character, this tea light makes a gorgeous locally made gift for anyone who loves handcrafted home décor. clairemolloyceramics.com See more beautiful work from these four makers - and many more local craftspeople - at the Made in Kilkenny pop-up shop in the old KBC Bank on The Parade, Kilkenny, open until Christmas Eve.

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Fonsie Mealy Auctioneers– Winter Fine Art & Antique sale success

Fonsie Mealy Auctioneers held their Winter Fine Art & Antique Sale on December 3rd & 4th at Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny. The auction proved highly successful, with many lots surpassing their pre-sale estimates.

Some Highlight Results: • “The Kildare Hunt, (1858),” by Michael Angelo Hayes, RHA (1820–1877) Achieved the highest price of the sale, bringing €50,000 on the hammer.

• A fine quality 19th Century Trophy in the form of an Armada Jug or Ewer, inscribed “The Kilkenny Hunt Cup, 1868” sold for €5,000 on the hammer.

• 18ct gold Ladies Faberge link Charm Bracelet, sold for €4,500 on the hammer.

The auction offered more than 1,000 lots, spanning a diverse range of categories, including paintings, furniture, jewellery, taxidermy, and vintage cars.

For more information about Fonsie Mealy Auctioneers and upcoming Sales, please contact: Tel +353 (0)56 4441229 / (0)56 4446200 info@fonsiemealy.ie

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Food & Drink Sip into

Photo: timolina

Five fresh festive flavours FOOD

Christmas

Ready to give your festive menus a little mischief? The run-up to Christmas is peak foodie season - when even the simplest dishes deserve a sprinkle of sparkle. These five flavours are having a wellearned moment and are guaranteed to bring fun, flair and “oh wow, what is that?” to your table. Many of these ingredients are now widely available online if you can’t find them locally.

Black garlic: Black garlic is a type of aged garlic - rich, sticky and full of dark, sweet umami. Stir it into gravy for unbelievable depth, smear it on crostini with soft cheese or mash it through roast potatoes for instant sophistication. Even a tiny bit makes your festive spread taste like you’ve had a private chef hiding in the kitchen. Mysterious, moody and absolutely delicious.

Smoked chilli flakes: These are the chilli flakes that turned up to the party wearing sequins. Warm but not fierce, smoky but not overwhelming, they add a subtle “ta-da!” to almost anything. Sprinkle them on baked brie, winter veg, scrambled eggs or even a festive brunch shakshuka. Add them to marinades for ham or roast chicken for an edge that feels both cosy and exciting - like a fireside chat with extra personality.

DRINKS Christmas dinner is as much about drinks as it is about food, and pairing the right wine or beer can lift even the most traditional festive menu.

Whether you’re serving roast turkey, ham or a vegetarian feast, a little thought goes a long way.

Turkey: This classic pairs beautifully with medium-bodied white wines like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For those who prefer reds, a Pinot Noir or light Gamay complements without overpowering.

Beer fans? Try a Belgian-style saison or a smooth amber ale

- both bring subtle maltiness that matches roasted poultry.

Glazed ham: Sweet, sticky ham loves contrast. Riesling or Gewürztraminer with a touch of residual sugar balances the saltiness perfectly. On the beer side, a malty brown ale or a fruity Belgian dubbel adds depth and enhances the glaze.

Vegetarian: Earthy, herby flavours from roast root veg work well with aromatic whites such as Viognier or Grüner Veltliner. For beer, try a hoppy IPA or a saison to lift herbal notes and refresh the palate.

Cheese & charcuterie: A fes-

tive cheeseboard can handle bold choices. Red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot complement aged cheeses, while sparkling wine or Champagne is surprisingly versatile, cutting through creamy brie or blue cheese. Beers like a crisp pilsner or a rich porter pair wonderfully with stronger cheeses.

Desserts: Sweet treats call for sweetness in return. Rich fruitcake or mince pies shine with fortified wines like Madeira or Port. For a lighter option, a Belgian witbier or a cherry lambic can echo fruit flavours without overwhelming.

And of course, Christmas

dinner isn’t just for wine or beer - there are plenty of festive non-alcoholic drinks that pair beautifully with the menu. Try a Sparkling Citrus Mocktail, made with orange, grapefruit or blood orange juice topped with sparkling water for a light, refreshing start. A Cranberry and Pomegranate Spritzer brings a tart, seasonal twist, garnished with fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds for a festive flourish. For something slightly sweeter, the Apple and Elderflower Cooler, served still or sparkling with a sprig of mint, balances richer courses perfectly and adds a touch of elegance to the table.

Build the perfect Christmas cheeseboard FOOD

forget artisanal crackers, slices of crusty bread and a touch of indulgence like quince jelly or miso caramel drizzle.

Nothing says festive entertaining like a well-stacked cheeseboard. It’s the ultimate crowdpleaser - part culinary treat, part decoration - and with a few simple tips, you can create a board that’s as impressive to look at as it is to eat.

Start with the cheese: Variety is key. Aim for a mix of textures and flavours: a soft, creamy brie or camembert, a tangy blue, a nutty cheddar and a semi-hard option like gouda. Local Irish cheeses add character - think Cashel Blue or Cooleeney Cheddar.

Add accompaniments: Bal-

ance richness with sweet and savoury nibbles. Fresh fruits like grapes, figs or blood or-

ange segments brighten the board. Nuts, olives and pickles add crunch and bite. Don’t

Presentation matters: Use a wooden board or slate platter, leaving space between cheeses so guests can serve themselves easily. Add small bowls for spreads, nut, and olives, and a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme for a festive touch.

Serving tips: Bring cheeses to room temperature before serving - it brings out the flavours. Label each cheese if you have guests unfamiliar with them. Pair with wine, cider or even a sparkling non-alcoholic option for extra cheer.

Blood orange: Bright, bold and naturally glamorous, blood oranges are winter’s show-off fruit.

Their jewel-toned flesh adds instant drama to salads, cocktails and desserts. Drizzle the juice over roast duck or use the zest in mince pies for a citrus twist. In a season full of rich food, blood oranges deliver a refreshing pop that cuts through the heaviness.

They’re edible Christmas lights vibrant and impossible to ignore.

Brown butter: Toasty, nutty and irresistibly fragrant, it transforms your cooking with minimal effort.

Pour it over sprouts or carrots, mix it into shortbread dough or whisk it into a warm vinaigrette for salads. It gives everything a cosy, golden richness. How it’s made: Melt unsalted butter over medium heat until it foams and the milk solids turn golden brown, giving a nutty aroma. Watch closely - it can burn quickly.

Miso caramel: For anyone who loves a sweet‑salty surprise, miso caramel is your festive go-to. It’s easy to make and irresistibly grownup. Simply melt 100g sugar until golden, stir in 50g butter, then whisk in 100ml cream. Finish with 1 tsp white miso for that perfect umami kick. Drizzle over ice cream, brownies, or fruit - and watch plain desserts turn into something delightfully unexpected.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

What’s On Your picks for this week TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK

What to Watch: Five Nights at Freddy’s, 15A: Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 returns to the haunted world of Fazbear Entertainment with a darker, sharper sequel that amps up the tension. This time, a new night guard faces upgraded animatronics, fresh lore twists and a story that dives deeper into the sinister legacy behind the iconic franchise. Expect jump scares, eerie atmosphere and plenty of nods to the games. Fans of the first film will find more mystery, more mayhem and even more reasons to keep the lights on. IMC Kilkenny.

R.S.A.G. rocks Yulefest

What to Read: Dog Man: Big Jim Believes delivers another gloriously silly, good-hearted romp from Dav Pilkey. This time, Big Jim is on a mission to prove he’s more than a lovable trouble magnet - and Dog Man and friends are right there to cheer him on. Expect zany antics, wild twists and plenty of comic-strip chaos as Big Jim learns that believing in yourself can be the biggest superpower of all. A joyful, giggle-packed read for Dog Man fans of every age.

FRI 19 DEC | 6:00-7:00PM | WATERGATE URBAN PARK | € 10.02 CONCERT Kilkenny’s newest outdoor venue, Watergate Urban Park, is launching its festive season with a bang, as Rarely Seen Above Ground (R.S.A.G.) brings a storm of sound, hypnotic beats and explosive percussion to Yulefest.

Better known as Jeremy Hickey, R.S.A.G. has been wowing audiences since 2007 with his one-man show that combines thunderous drum-

ming, captivating visuals and an electrifying stage presence.

From Choice Music Prize nominations to headline slots at festivals across Europe and America, Hickey has carved out a reputation as one of Europe’s most compelling drummers, a skilled producer and a dynamic performer. His collaborations include work with Justice’s Xavier de Rosnay and Parisian electronic outfit Bot’Ox, cementing his status as a versatile and innovative force

The Shortt Stuff WATERGATE THEATRE | SAT 13 DEC 2025 | 8PM | €32 COMEDY Father-daughter duo Pat and Faye Shortt are back with their new show, Shortt Stuff, bringing their trademark blend of absurd characters, quick-fire banter and hilariously offbeat sketches to Kilkenny.

Pat Shortt, a seasoned veteran of the Irish comedy scene, teams up with his theatretrained daughter Faye, whose sharp wit and fearless stage presence make them one of the country’s most entertaining double acts. Together, they’ve won over audiences from small-town halls to international stages, including

a recent tour across Australia and New Zealand that left crowds in stitches from Sydney to Perth.

Shortt Stuff promises a madcap mix of social commentary and all-out silliness. Expect unpredictable sketches that lampoon small-town politics, family feuds turned into musical numbers and a cast of brilliantly bonkers characters that only the Shortts could conjure.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their comedy, this is a show packed with laughs, heart and a touch of chaos - the perfect prescription for a winter evening of entertainment.

in modern music.

R.S.A.G.’s performances are as distinctive as his records, blending frenetic energy with moments of calm to create a unique, almost hypnotic experience. His critically acclaimed album Chroma was hailed by The Irish Times as one of the best albums of 2020, and fans can expect a sneak peek of his new material at this special Yulefest event.

This festive performance also supports a good cause:

proceeds will go towards the Kilkenny Music Generation Instrument Fund, helping young musicians access instruments and training. The event is backed by Kilkenny County Council’s Night Time Economy Initiative.

Please note: this is an outdoor, no-alcohol event. Dress warmly, as there are no on-site toilets, no pets allowed, and the loud drumming with flashing lights may not be suitable for those with sensitivities.

What to Stream: ’Tis the season for delightfully dodgy Christmas films, and Tinsel Town proudly leads the pack. This 93-minute festive romp gets a major boost from Kiefer Sutherland as Brad, a washed-up Hollywood actor roped into starring in a village panto alongside Rebel Wilson. What follows is cosy chaos, glitter overload and plenty of family-friendly laughs. Add in a parade of surprise cameos — Danny Dyer included — and Tinsel Town becomes the kind of charming Christmas fluff that’s impossible not to enjoy. Streaming on NOW. What to Listen To: Catch Ryan McMullan live at the Set Theatre tomorrow night as he returns to the stage fresh off the success of Redesign, his debut album that hit #1 on Ireland’s Independent Charts. Known for vocals that can silence a room (in the best way), McMullan has toured with Ed Sheeran, Kodaline and Snow Patrol - and now he’s taking the spotlight himself. Expect new tracks, fan favourites and a soulful, intimate set from one of Ireland’s standout singer-songwriters.

What to Play: Mortal Kombat: Legacy Kollection – Deluxe Edition brings the iconic brawler roaring back with a slick, nostalgiacharged package that’s all about big hits and bigger fan service.

Featuring remastered classics, upgraded visuals and a treasure trove of legacy content, this edition is built for long-time Kombatants and curious newcomers alike. Expect brutal combos, outrageous fatalities and a reminder of why this franchise has dominated fighting games for decades. A must-play for anyone who likes their gaming loud, fast and gloriously over the top.

Where to Potter: Get into the festive spirit at the Santa Plate Pottery Painting Workshop by The Happy Pottery. This relaxed, creative session guides you through tips and techniques to design your own Christmas plate, with all materials and professional kiln firing included. Choose a breakfast or kids’ plate and create a unique, food-safe piece ready for collection within seven days.

A perfect seasonal activity for all ages. Sun, Dec 14, 11.00–12.30, Shee Almshouse, Rose Inn Street, Kilkenny.

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News

Graiguenamanagh’s opening day

Section of the crowd at the cutting of the ribbon

The cutting of the ribbon

The opening of the Graiguenamanagh GAA clubhouse extension and new gym marked an important milestone not only for the club, but for the wider community that has supported it for generations. On an otherwise dull day, players young and old, club volunteers, local families, and invited guests gathered to celebrate a development that reflects years of planning, fundraising, and collective determination.

For Graiguenamanagh GAA, a club steeped in heritage, this new chapter represents both a nod to its past and a powerful investment in its future.

The clubhouse extension was conceived with a simple guiding principle: to give all members of the community a place to grow, connect, train, and belong. Over the years, the club’s growing numbers stretched its existing facilities, especially as underage participation flourished and adult teams saw increased commitment levels. The demand for modern training spaces became impossible to ignore. What stands today is the result of countless committee meetings, feasibility studies, community conversations, and the selfless dedication of volunteers who devoted evenings and weekends to fundraising events. From Lotto, quiz nights and raffles, sponsored cycles to local business contributions and generous personal donations, the extension stands as a monument to community spirit.

Upon walking into the

Uachtarán Jarlath Burns with club stalwart Damien Kielthy.

Uachtarán Jarlath Burns with Club Chairman Thomas Holden (right) Vice Chairman Paul Keating (Left)

new space for the first time, visitors are struck by how thoughtfully every element has been designed. The extended clubhouse now includes upgraded meeting rooms, new changing facilities, improved storage areas, and dedicated spaces for coaching sessions and club administration. The flow of the building allows different teams to use the facilities simultaneously without overcrowding, something that had long posed challenges on busy training nights. Bright, modern lighting and warm interior finishes give the clubhouse a welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that it remains not only a training facility but a social hub for members of all ages.

The highlight of the opening, performed by Uachtarán Jarlath Burns, was

undoubtedly the unveiling of the new gym. Equipped with state-of-the-art strength and conditioning equipment, the gym represents a transformative shift in how Graiguenamanagh players can prepare for competition.

Racks, free weights, plyometric stations, and functional training equipment now stand ready to support athletes in building speed, power, endurance, and resilience.

The gym has been designed not just for elite adult athletes but for a broad spectrum of members, from teenage development squads to older players and even community fitness groups.

During the opening ceremony everybody praised the vision behind the project.

They also pointed out that the investment in physical infrastructure mirrors the

club’s dedication to nurturing young talent. With proper facilities, coaches can run more structured and holistic training programs, ensuring that players develop not only technical skills but strength, fitness, and confidence.

The opening also paid tribute to the volunteers, whose contributions formed the backbone of the project.

From parents who organized fundraisers, to local businesses that sponsored equipment, the event highlighted the sense of unity that makes clubs like Graiguenamanagh GAA so special. Many of those volunteers were present for the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and their pride was evident. There was a shared understanding that community spirit, more than concrete or steel, was what made the project possible.

Local officials and representatives of the county board who attended the opening day spoke warmly about the club’s achievements and future ambitions. They acknowledged the growing importance of providing modern training facilities in the GAA landscape, where clubs must support players across increasingly demanding schedules. The new gym, they said, places Graiguenamanagh at the forefront of community sports development in the region, offering players of all ages the chance to train at a higher level without leaving their own parish.

The event also featured tours of the facilities, where demonstrations on how various spaces would be used for training, recovery, and team planning. Younger members were particularly

enthusiastic, many seeing the gym for the first time and imagining the years of development ahead. Parents expressed gratitude that their children would now grow up with safe, modern facilities that reflect the club’s strong values of inclusivity, health, and continuous improvement.

As the formalities concluded, a celebratory atmosphere filled the grounds.

Conversations about the club’s history blended seamlessly with excitement for future seasons. The extension and gym are not just upgrades they represent a vision of what the community can achieve when it works together and ties in with the GAA new rural development initiative to grow and develop clubs. In the years to come, these facilities will witness countless team talks, training sessions, fitness breakthroughs, and moments of camaraderie that define GAA life.

The opening of the Graiguenamanagh GAA clubhouse extension and new gym is more than a ribboncutting event. It is a statement of identity, a declaration that the values of commitment, teamwork, and community pride remain strong. It is also an invitation, an invitation to the next generation of players, supporters, and volunteers to take their place in the ongoing story of the club.

With these new facilities, Graiguenamanagh GAA steps confidently into the future, ready for new challenges, new achievements, and many more years of shared success.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA CLUB LOTTO The Lotto results for 2nd December are as follows.

There was no jackpot winner. The numbers drawn - 24, 28, 29. The €30 Lucky Dip Winners - Joanne O Connell, Carolyn Nolan, Thom Armitage, Jimmy Coogan and Mairead Hoyne. The Christmas Hamper Draw will be held on 16th December. Thank you for your ongoing support.

O’LOUGHLIN “UNDER ONE BANNER” BOOK LAUNCH The launch of the history of O’Loughlin Gaels called “Under One Banner” takes place in the clubhouse on Tuesday 16th December at 8pm.

Written by Conor Denieffe, the book tells the story of O’Loughlin Gaels Club from its formation in 1969 to the present day, 2025. It details the many games, the scores, the players and personalities, the triumphs and celebrations along with the setbacks and disappointments as the club grew to what it is today. It covers all aspects and activities of the club over the years, hurling, football, camogie and handball along with primary schools and the development of O’Loughlin’s home, St. John’s Park. All members and supporters are invited to the launch.

SCHOOL SUCCESS Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels players’ Lucas Duggan, Samuel Briers, Conor Mc Cormack, JJ Cahill, Stephen Mc Cormack and Ryan Farrell on winning the Leinster Junior A Colleges final with Kilkenny CBC. They defeated Good Counsel of New Ross in the final, played in Fenagh last week by 4-14 to 1-16.

CHRISTMAS PARTY O’Loughlin Gaels Juvenile Hurling and Camogie Christmas Party takes place on Sunday 14th December in the clubhouse. Times are as follows, Under 6 Boys and Girls : 10 am to 11.20 am. Under 8 Girls : 11.30am to 12.50pm. Under 8 Boys : 3pm. Under 10 Boys and Girls : 1pm to 2.20pm Make sure you’re there for a fun-filled festive celebration with games, music, and plenty of Christmas cheer! This is a great opportunity for all our young players to come together and celebrate the season.

Tickets are €5 and include a selection box and hot dog. Looking forward to seeing you there.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winners of OLoughlin Gaels club lotto dated December 2nd. The numbers drawn were 8, 19, 20 and 22. The bonus number was 23. Next week’s top prize will be €10,000 (December 9th).

Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors draw: 1. Pauline Cleere c/o K Cleere. 2.

Callum Greene c/o P Greene. 3. Mary c/o M Dreeling.

4. Carmel Guidera. 5. Debbie Nugent c/o Donny. 6.

Joe Fanning c/o P Greene. 7. Margaret Doyle c/o B Maher. 8. Michael Butler c/o Online. 9. Jackie Costigan c/o Online. 10. Orla Murphy c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

HANDBALL A great day’s handball was enjoyed by competitors and a large crowd of spectators at the Irish 4-Wall

Colin McGree Tournament

Nationals in O’Loughlin Gaels. We were delighted to have RTE present covering the competitions.

CLUB WALKING GROUP Good news for all our walkers: The O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club Walking Group is back out walking on Wednesdays, leaving the club at 7.30pm for anyone who wishes to come along.

NOVEL FUNDRAISER O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club is running a novel fundraiser in conjunction with Phelans Tree Farm on the Old Golf Links Road. Simply sign in as an O’Loughlins supporter when you buy your tree and part of the same price will go to the Club.

MAYFAIR LIBRARY The Kilkenny Writers Forum is delighted to welcome writer, editor and literature producer Brendan Mac Evilly for a public talk/seminar this December in the Mayfair Library. Brendan is the founder, editor, director, and curator of the acclaimed arts journal Holy Show, and the former coordinator of the highly successful National Mentoring Programme for Literature, run by the Irish Writers Centre. His debut novel, Deep Burn, was published this autumn.

This event is brought to you by Kilkenny Writers Forum, Kilkenny Mayfair Library and Kilkenny Artist Connect Bursary. Kilkenny Writers Forum is a group of writers who come together to discuss the challenges and experiences of writing and publishing.

It is a place to share their work and receive honest and useful feedback in developing the craft of writing. The group meets on Tuesday mornings in the Mayfair Library and welcome new members.

Contact kilkennywriters2025@gmail.com with your details and queries. We look forward to an engaging morning of insight, initiative, and inspiration, one that we hope will encourage and invigorate local writers, now and into the future. Date: Tuesday December 16th| Time 10am-1pm NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie

O’Loughlin Gaels players who were part of the successful CBC Kilkenny team.

FRESHFORD SQUASH There was a great win for the Freshford team playing last week. What a fantastic game. The team won all their games – Nathan Walsh won 3-0, Neil Brannon won 3-2 Pat Morrissey won 3-1, Jamie Byrne won 3-2 and Phillips won 3-1.

Local man Pat Morrissey won in the Connacht senior masters last weekend. Pat had a great win in the final beating Kevin Know of Waterford by 3-0 to finish off a great week.

GAA St Lachtain GAA held their AGM at the Clubrooms with a good attendance reviewing a good year for the Club. The intermediate hurling side staying in the ranks and playing in that grade again next year.

The following officers were elected for the forthcoming year. Chairman – Fitzpatrick, Vice Chairman – T. Kennedy, secretary – S. Killeen, Treasurer – B Kavanagh , PRO – T, Kennedy, Co Board Delegate – O. Dalton, Junior Board Delegate – J.P. Kavanagh, Ass Secretary/Health club officer – M. McGree, Ass Treasurer – D. Dalaton, Child Welfare officer – P Murphy, DLP - M. Hickey, Safety Officer – P. Donnelly, Bord na nOg Chairperson _ K. Dalton, Oifigeach Gaeilge – L. O’Cinneide.

COLIN MCGREE TOURNAMENT The annual Colin McGree Tournament was held recently at the Sports field at Woodview. This tournament has been running for almost three decades now in remembrance of Colin who died at the age of 17 and was himself a talented footballer and sportsman. The event is organised by two of his former teammates from their schoolboy’s days.

There were over 40 young players taking part and after the preliminary games the semi-finals saw Arsenal face Liverpool and Man City face Everton in the cup with Liverpool and Everton progressing to the final and Liverpool winning out on score of 1-0.

While in the shield Man Utd took on Chelsea finishing all square at 2-2. Man Utd went on to win on penalties. Shane McGree presented the cup to the winning captain and thanked all who organised the event and said it was lovely to see the young boys and girls participating. Ballyhale player Eoin Coady called into the games and took the time to have some photos taken with the youngsters.

Teams: Cup winners – Liverpool –E. McMenamin, P O’Connor, S. Walsh, J. Nolan, J. Curley, S. McCarthy and F. Cullen, Everton – J. Kavanagh, S. Earley, B. Looby, C. Byrne, C. Gleeson, L. Kelly, D. Murphy Man Utd – Shield Winners – J. Marnell, D. Greene, A. Dalton, C. Buckley, R. Grant D.J. Walsh, R. Geraghty and C. Geraghty Chelsea – M. Hickey, J. Geraghty, L. McCarthy, C. Grant, S. Geraghty, F. Carroll and T, J, Hussey.

Arsenal – C. Delaney, M. O’Neill, F. Condon, C. Grant, N Barnaville, F. Cullinane, Doyle and H. Hughes.

Man city – N. Flynn, L. Dermody, B. McGree, J. Kavanagh, S.O; Neill, F.O. Flaherty and B, Nolan.

BIRTHDAY BOYS Special birthday wishes go out to two young local lads who celebrated their 21st birthday last week.

Connor Donnelly Ballylarkin and Jack Whitty Poulbawn both celebrated their coming of age at a joint party with family and friends in Kavanaghs Bar on Saturday night last.

CHRISTMAS COLLECTION The annual St. Vincent de Paul collection will take place on Saturday 13th December in Tulla and on Sunday 14th December in Freshford. Your support would be very much appreciated for all those in need in our community.

COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community Alert hold their AGM this week in the Community Hall. Community alert membership is now due and you can contact any Committee member if you want to join the group or pay your membership.

SOCCER In the schoolboy’s section the only game was the U15 boys who had a 5-0 win over Evergreen at home with goals from Danny Greene (2) L Dermody, J. Maher and S. Costelloe.

DUCK RACE The duck race which is a fundraiser for the Club was held recently with a big entry. The race started at Mill Bridge and the following were the lucky winners on the day: 1st Kevin Purcell, 2nd Keith Farrell, 3rd Bill Looby, 4th Mark Bowden, 5th Sean O’Rourke, 6th Denis Murphy, 7th Billy Healy, 8th James Costelloe, 9th Ivor Bibby and 10th Bobby Colclough.

Thanks goes to all those who helped to organise the event or sell tickets and to all those who supported this fundraiser which goes towards the astro pitch.

SAFETY FIRST The recent development of a car park at Freshford Cemetery was a most welcome project for people wishing to visit the graves of their loved ones. Open every day it will facilitate safe entry and exiting for all who wish to park there OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget weekly, every Wednesday located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 087 4833941 BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall at 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are being held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge and you are most welcome to attend these classes. For further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136.

FOROIGE Freshford Foroige youth club is held each Monday evening at the Community Hall. New members are very welcome and they are also looking for leaders IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtain’s Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm. They held their annual Christmas fair on Sunday after which on Sunday evening the Christmas tree and lights on the Square and around the village were switched on.

The tree and lights at Woodview estate were switched on Saturday evening by Marian Morrissey whose late husband Joe did so much work for the estate and the village in general.

PARISH NEWS Mass times for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan.

Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 730pm.

Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1, 2, 3 basis. Weekly masses Monday 9.30am Kilmanagh, Tuesday and Friday –Freshford -9.30am

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Community & GAA Notes and Thursday –Tullaroan at 9.30am.

RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio NEWS LETTER The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be placed by phoning the office during the hours of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

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

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

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

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

addition to other club sportswear, beanies, caps, car stickers, hurleys and sliothars, all very acceptable Christmas presents for players and supporters of all ages. Meanwhile if an item is urgently required contact Breda at 087 9648756.

BAND CONCERTS On Saturday 13th December the St. Patricks Brass and Reed band will entertain shoppers at a mid-afternoon concert in the Market Cross Centre starting at 3p.m. On Sunday 14th December the band will lead a Christmas Carol service in St. Fiacre’s Church starting at 3p.m. After a well-earned short break, the band will return to Market Cross on Christmas Eve for another mid-afternoon concert starting at 3p.m.

Appropriately the band’s final engagement, will be

to present a selection of carol music at the 9.30 a.m.

Christmas Day mass in St. Patrick’s Church.

LOTTO This week’s numbers were 3: 9: 14: 27. There was no winner of this week’s jackpot. The €40 consolation winners Fiona Noonan, Jim Dollard, Timmy Grogan, Nicola Cahill and Anne Burke.

BENNETTSBRIDGE HAPPINESS IS……

The first Christmas Movie Night in Bennettsbridge was a resounding success. It was a magical night for children and well done to the organisers. The event was in aid of the Bennettsbridge Community and

Playground development.

CONGRATS ALEX !

Well done to Alex Cullen, Woollengrange, who has been awarded the Quercus Entrance Scholarship in the College of Medicine and Health at University College Cork. This scholarship recognises exceptional Leaving Certificate achievement and academic potential at the point of entry to university.

Alex, who is now studying dentistry, received the award at a UCC ceremony on 3th December. He was joined by his parents, while Dr Jonathan Murphy attended his alma mater on behalf of CBC Kilkenny.

Alex has also been selected as a 2025 UCC Sports Scholar for Athletics, an award that supports high-performing student athletes as they balance

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB C.B.S TRIUMPH Congratulations to the C.B.C. junior hurlers who put back to -back Leinster Colleges Junior Hurling titles together with an impressive 4-14 to 1-16 winning display to edge out Good Counsel, New Ross in the closing minutes of the hard-fought title decider in Fenagh, (Co. Carlow). Club players who contributed to the success were Liam “Chunky” O’Brien selected at corner forward while Calum Burke and Sean Daly were members of the winning panel. Well done to the former James’ Street secondary school, now relocated on the Grange’s Road on this notable sporting achievement.

BONUS BALL The November Bonus Ball number was 46. The lucky winners were Darren Hickey and Jamie Brennan who will each receive a cheque for €500 in the next few days. Congratulations to Darren and Jamie and as always, our thanks to all who continue to contribute to this invaluable fundraiser. The Christmas draw will take place on Saturday 20th December.

ST. V. De PAUL COLLECTION Just a reminder to local folk that the annual St. Vincent De Paul Christmas Church Gate collection will be taken up outside all the parish churches on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th December. For further information contact 087 6820589.

CHRISTMAS PARTY The club’s annual Christmas party night takes place on Saturday next 13th December starting at 8p.m.

Social club manager Mark Noonan has engaged the popular local musician, Tony Coy who will get everyone into the festive spirit with his lively musical selection from 9p.m. Also, in tune with the occasion there will be a bar voucher for the winner of the best Christmas outfit and there will be a raffle on the night at 11p.m.

MEMBERSHIP 2026 Club registrar, Mark Noonan would like to remind members that membership fees for the 2026 season are due. For those who wish to pay online one can log on to www.foireann.ie and follow the instructions for payments. The website also provides information on the various categories of membership.

RED AND GREEN SHOP Supervisor Breda Manogue advises that the club shop will be open for business every Tuesday evening, up until Christmas week, stocked with new fashionable club sports and training tops, in

East End Girls played a good game against Thomastown

East End Boys U 11s turned in a good performance against Kilkenny Unit

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Community & GAA Notes competitive sport with the demands of university study. These accomplishments reflect Alex’s dedication across both academics and sport. The school community extends its warm congratulations to him and his family as he begins the next stage of his academic and athletic journey.

WEEKDAY MASSES Mass is celebrated on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10.30 am.

GATHERING GROUP There was a full attendance at the group meeting on Wednesday where members were given a short but informative talk on the services available in the Citizens Advice in Kilkenny. Sarah Drea answered questions from the floor and was very helpful. This Wednesday the Christmas Party takes place in the Orchard Restaurant in Kilkenny and next week Anne Marie Mahon will pay her annual visit for her Christmas floral arrangements.

ART GROUP On Monday members of the Art Group gathered in Crafted Cafe for a Christmas Lunch. An enjoyable meal was served by Gail and her team. The artists will now take a break until mid January.

LOTTO The draw held on 1st December produced the following results, there was no winner of the Jackpot.

The numbers drawn were, 4, 7, 19, 24. Consolation prizes, went to Alan Simpson, The Ring, The Kinsella Family, Bennettsbridge, Rosie ℅ Fr Duggan, Bibi Cleere, The Ring, Fr Dalton, Gowran.

CARDS RESULTS 11th November; First Prize Bill Carroll/Ann Carroll ( 10 games ). Second Prize Pat Hanlon/Mary Phelan and Mick Kelly/Jack Bolger ( 9 games ). Table Prize Joan O’Gorman/Siobhán O’Donovan. 18th November. First Prize John O’Brien/Patsy Gibbons ( 11 games ). Second Prize Lar Gibbons/Eddie Walsh and Michael Kenneally/Mickey Fitzpatrick ( 10 games ). Table Prize Rose Hayes/Paul Gurrie. 25th November. First Prize Lar Gibbons/ Mickey Fitzpatrick ( 10 games ). Second Prize John O’Brien/ Patsy Gibbons ( 9 games ). Table Prize Michael Kenneally/ Eddie Walsh EAST END A brilliant performance from East End U9 girls against Thomastown on Saturday. Loads of energy, even after a late night with the Toy Show! U11 Boys A big performance from our U11 boys on Saturday against Kilkenny Utd! Goals shared between Sam Minogue, Sam Wall, and Peadar Bolger, great teamwork all around!

CAMOGIE CLUB Congratulations to Bennettsbridge camogie players Christmas Movie Night.

who attended the Kilkenny Camogie medal presentation in Langtons to celebrate their achievements with the Kilkenny development squads.

The club is incredibly proud of Leah (U14) Katie, Amy and Mia (U15) Lauren, Holly and Erin (U16) for flying the flag for Bennettsbridge at County level.

The presentation was a wonderful acknowledgment of their hard work and dedication throughout the year SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN The Bennettsbridge GAA club Pitch signage campaign is still underway. If interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey to have your business included.

O’NEILL’S CLUB SHOP A new club jacket has been added to the range of club gear in the clubs online shop. With Christmas on the horizon some club gear would make the perfect gift. Check out the full range on the O’Neill’s website. Simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box to see what’s available.

SPLIT THE POT The next draw will be the Christmas draw on December 19th with extra prizes added. Thanks to all for the continued support.

BORD NA N-ÓG AGM At the recent AGM, the following officers were elected. Chairman, Michael Ryan, Secretary, Donnacha Hennessey, Treasurer, Jenny Burke, PRO, Edel Ryan. A committee was also elected on the night.

Denis o Sullivan was thanked for his hard work as he stepped down from the treasurer role. We wish all involved the very best for 2026.

COLLEGE HURLING Congratulations to Timmy Kelly who played at wing back for UCC in their victory over Mary Immaculate College in the Higher Education Division 1 league final at the weekend. Well done to all involved.

Congratulations also to our own clubman, Evan O’Dwyer who played a fine game at corner back for CBC, Kilkenny in their victory over Good Counsel in the Leinster Junior A Championship final at the weekend. Back to back championships for CBC. Well done to all.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Alex Cullen, Woollengrange.

DUISKE COLLEGE Our Senior hurlers combined with Coláiste Pobail Osraí travelled down to Wexford on Monday last where they played Bridgetown College and came away with an excellent win to top their group and qualify for a South Leinster semi final.

Our first-year students are currently taking part in an exciting rowing programme at Graiguenamanagh Rowing Club. Under the guidance of our dedicated fourth-year mentors, they are learning the fundamentals of rowing, building confidence on the water, and developing strong teamwork skills.

The older students have taken on their teaching roles with enthusiasm, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for our newest rowers.

A big thanks to Mr you to Ms. Flynn for her work implementing this program HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC FC Massive well done to our U9 Boys team who performed well against a strong Freshford side. Despite the weather and low numbers the lads played fantastic stuff with plenty of goals scored alongside strong defensive work at the other end. Huge thanks to the lads and to the parents who brought them out.

CANOE CLUB The Canoe club’s members are doing a Christmas evening on the 14th December, ‘The River Christmas Sparkle’. Our Aim is to flood the river with as many kayaks and canoes we can all covered in Christmas lights. Meeting at 4:45pm at club house to dress boats with lights and get your safety gear on. Of course you can add some decorations if you wish to add some sparkles to yourself. We will be getting in the river at the boat house and only going as far as the bridge Graig side. We’ll sing along to a few Christmas songs, and then come back to the club for a chat and Christmas refreshments hot chocolate/tea/coffee /treats.

Any of our kayaking /canoest buddies out there (non members) who would like to join in the festivities your welcome to join us, the more the merrier. |Just get in touch and let us know your coming long. Let’s light up the river barrow with us this Christmas 2025.

Congratulations to our very own Melinda Reddy who has passed her level two canoe instructor course. All the hard work and aches and pains paid off well done Mel. We’re delighted for you and a big thank you to all our members for all the hours put in to make this happen

ABBEY HALL A lot of work has been going on behind the scenes the last few weeks, for the switching on of the town lights which took place on Sunday last, at 5pm outside the Duiske Inn. We would like to thank Kilkenny Council for €750 under the Yulefest grant, Cllr Willie Quinn for €1000 from Carlow Council, Cllr. Brian ‘Bruno’ Cleere for €250 from Kilkenny Council.

All the volunteers that make this possible the last few years, Paddy Heffernen for the installation, the Duiske Inn for supplying some hot chocolate for the switching on. and everyone in the community that donates to help fund the town Christmas Lights.

Between insurance, repairs and replacing damaged lights, installation costs, hoist hire, Christmas tree and assorted other costs, we spend around €5000 each year. Graignamanagh Hall is a registered charity (RCN 20071370) with audited accounts, submitted to the CRO and Charities regulator each year, and the Christmas lights account is included in the audit. Donations to the lights account can still be made at the Credit Union at any time.

SUPERVALU As sponsor to Graignamanagh GAA we would like to send our congratulations on the official opening day of their fantastic new club facilities. We are so proud to have sponsored our local club for so many years and hope to continue to do so for many years to come! You have built a facility that will help generations of players to develop and improve and for that you should be so proud.

GAA What a special and momentous day as our new Clubhouse extension was officially opened by The President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns. Thank you to everyone who turned out for this great occasion and for all the support and help from the local community.

We hope our new facility which will be there to nurture and develop future generations of Graignamanagh men and women and hopefully it will stand the test of time for many many years ahead.

As part of the opening celebrations the Club also unveiled a memento to honor one of our local heroes of bye gone days, Nick O’Donnell who was named at full back on the team of the Century and Millennium. Nicks daughter Ann O’Donnell Redden put pen to paper and composed a beautiful poem especially for the occasion.

Congratulations to our club u21 hurling team, who qualified for the County Final. After a thrilling game with our Opponents Johnstown/Black and Whites, we ran out winners by two points on a scoreline of 0-14 O-12. Both clubs are be applauded on their performance in Dr Tierney Park.

KILMANAGH LADIES FOOTBALL Well done to the St. Aidan’s Kilmanagh girls and teachers who recently won the Roinn A schools ladies football final with a great win over Danesfort School in the final. This is the first time ever that Kilmanagh have won this title.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT The Ballycallan Community Hall Christmas concert is returning on this Friday, 12th December. Some excellent local talent is lined up to get you into the festive spirit. There will be a shop on the night.

Doors open at 7pm. Entry fee €5 per person.

JERSEY NIGHT St Brigid’s Camogie Club are hosting a jersey night this Friday, December 12th in Ryans, Kilmanagh.

Promises to be a great night. There will be a DJ and great raffle prizes to be won on the night. From 9pm ‘til late. There is a €10 fee on the door. Please come and support the Senior girl’s fundraiser.

CAROL SERVICES There will be a Carol Service in St Brigid’s Church, Ballycallan on Tuesday, December 16th at 7pm.

Featuring the Parish and school choirs. Refreshments afterwards.

The Annual Carol Service in St Aidan’s Church, Kilmanagh will take place on Sunday December 21st at 7pm. All are welcome.

CHRISTMAS TEA PARTY Everyone is invited to a festive Christmas Tea Party on Sunday, December 21st at 3pm in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre Kilmanagh. Enjoy entertainment from talented local artists and share in the festive spirit. Donations on the day will go towards supporting Ollie Brennan, Kilmanagh. All are welcome.

McALISKEY SCHOOL OF DANCE Congratulations and well done to the members of McAliskey School of Dancing who took part in the Leinsters Irish Dancing Competition recently.

An amazing 35 medals came back to Kilkenny, a

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Community & GAA Notes

St Aidans Kilmanagh - Roinn A Schools Football Final winners

fantastic achievement. See the “Christmas Acorn” for more information and pictures.

LADIES ACTIVE GROUP Naomh Aodhan Ladies Active Group meet every Monday evening at 7pm in Naomh Aodhan Community Hall, Kilmanagh. If you would like to join the ladies group contact Eileen on 086 373 99 83 or come along to Naomh Aodhan Community Centre on Monday evenings.

“OLD SCHOOL” BOYS The inaugural “Old School” Boys gathering in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre (aka The Old School Kilmanagh) was a resounding success. 16 boys of varying vintage met up for a morning of tea, scones and stories. This will be repeated on this Friday, December 12th and the following one, December 19th. All men are welcome to attend. Fun time is from 10am to 12 noon. Any queries contact Tom 086 315 1573 or Damian 086 390 3396.

LOCAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS On Saturday, December 13th, Fennelly’s Café Callan will host their Christmas Market, from 12-6pm. Local crafts, live music and seasonal treats.

On Sunday, December 14th, the VisitCallan Christmas Market takes place, al fresco in Green Street if weather is fine, otherwise in the Parish Hall, Callan with the fun starting at 11.30am.

CAMOGIE DRAW Join our St. Brigid’s Camogie Club Christmas Raffle and be in with a chance to win some fantastic prizes, all while helping us continue to grow and develop camogie in our community. Your support keeps our club strong! Tickets available now through iDonate — don’t miss out! 1 x Ticket = €10; 3 x Tickets = €25; 6 x Tickets = €50; 12 x Tickets = €100.

SHANE MURPHY MEMORIAL The Shane Murphy Memorial 7-A-Side Soccer Tournament will take place on St Stephens Day at 11am in Clonard Park. To register, contact Cathal 087 614 0809 or Linda 087 686 1418.

SOCCER FIXTURES Saturday, December 13th : U18 Schoolboys League : River Rangers v Highview Ath. U16 Schoolboys League: River Rangers v Callan Utd. U14 Schoolboys League: Spa United v River Rangers. Sunday, December 14th: K & DL Div 2: River Rangers v Bridge Utd. CHRISTMAS ACORN The Christmas Acorn is now at production stage and will be printed and available for sale before Christmas.

CALENDAR The annual Naomh Aodhan Community Centre Calendar is going to print very soon. If you would like to place an advertisement for your business in this calendar, which will be distributed for free to all households in the parish, please contact 086 373 9983 before Friday next 12th December.

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

Cumann na mBunscoil football last weekend.

Congratulations also to the Under-15/16s team on winning the Carlow tournament final score 2-17 to 0-7.

The Junior team of the championship has been announced. Congratulations to Richie Doyle, Gary Hill, Kieran O’Neill, Marc Drennan, Jack Kelly, Joe Healy and Manager John McDonald.

There was no jackpot winner for the lotto draw of 2 December. The Match 3 winner was Shane Hanlon (€100). The next jackpot, on 9 December, will be for €9,200.

BOXING Paulstown Boxing Club’s, Emma Keating, has been confirmed as one of the 18 IABA 2025 National Intermediate champions, following a competition at the National Stadium in Dublin.

BRIDGE UNITED Congratulations to everyone who won at the annual awards night in Goresbridge or won a prize in the Christmas Draw.

In the Premier Division Evergreen A came away victorious on a 4- 3 scoreline against Bridge Utd A. The united scorers were Jake Kelly, Craig Wall and Kieran Timmon. In Division 3, Bridge B beat Stoneyford B (2-1) with Bridge scores by Gidelson Santos de Jesus and Mickey Brennan. In the Under-13s Boys, Bridge yellow best Callan (4-0) with goals by Niall Doyle (2), Patrick Drennan and Mossy Fitzgerald while Bridge Blue won against Clover (51) with Bridge scores from Riley Dempsey (3), Harry McCormack and Ted Kelsey. In the Junior Division 3 of Kilkenny and District Soccer League, Bridge Utd B beat Paulstown 06 FC (4-2).

The pop-up shop is back on Bridge United Grounds, Goresbridge with sports gear on sale as well as Christmas items.

For the diary – the Joanne Barcoe Memorial takes place on 1st January 2026 in Ferns United pitch.

CALENDAR The 2026 Goresbridge Calendar is now available in our local chemist and Maher’s Spar. Two for €16 thanks to all involved and enjoy.

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses are celebrated on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30a in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am in Paulstown on Tuesday, Thursday

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN Tom Healy

MEETING Active Retirement meets again next Thursday 18th December at 11am in Paulstown Community Hall. All welcome.

Barrow Rangers Congratulations to the girls from Scoil Bhride, Goresbridge and Paulstown who won the

Scoil Bhride, Goresbridge and Paulstown

and Friday as well as at 10am on Wednesday in Goresbridge. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm.

A Parish Christmas Choir has been set up, the next practice is on 16th December at 7.30pm in the church of the Holy Trinity, Goresbridge. Adults and persons aged 15 and over most welcome. Contact the parish office for further information.

The annual collection for St Vincent de Paul will take place at all masses this weekend.

TALKING THE TALK Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues this Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

LIGHT UP THE PARISH The annual Light Up The Parish Vehicle Charity Run 2025 takes place this Saturday 13th December.

Funds are raised for the Saplings School, Goresbridge. Registration of vehicles begins at 2pm at Donohue’s Horse Sales Yard. The run will depart from Goresbridge at 4pm and move through Paulstown and Gowran before returning to Goresbridge.

Music and raffle at the Barrow Breeze, Goresbridge at 8pm.

MENS SHED The next meeting of the Mens Shed is at 11am on Tuesday 16th December in the cabin beside Paulstown community hall.

ADMISSIONS Scoil Bhríde (Goresbridge) is open for admissions for the next school year. Information may be obtained from the school office each morning (phone 059 9775168) or email to office@goresbridgens.ie .Scoil Bhríde (Paulstown) is open for admissions for the next school year. Information may be obtained from the school office (059 9726149) or email to admin@paulstownns.ie CHRISTMAS GATHERING Senior Citizens Christmas Gathering will take place this Sunday 14th December in Gowran Park from 3-6pm.

ST MARY’S PARISH ACADEMIC SUCCESS Congratulations to Conor Harte, CBC Kilkenny who received a National Certificate from the ETTA, recognising the outstanding result which he achieved in the 2024 Junior Cycle Examination and Project in Graphics.

UNITY SINGERS AT MAYFAIR LIBRARY. The Unity Singers will perform at the Mayfair Library on Tuesday 16th December at 6.30pm. Free of admission.

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE. The annual Christmas Carol service will take place at St May’s Cathedral on Sunday 21st December at 7.30pm featuring St Mary’s Cathedral Choir, the Unity Singers, Soloist Tanya Sewell and the Kilkenny School of Music under the baton of Philip Edmundsen. Accompanist Joy Bibby and Conductor Sean O’Neill.

The Kilkenny Choir presents A Choral Christmas on Sunday 14th December at 4.30pm in St. John’s Church. Conductor Patrick Rafter. Tickets €20 on Eventbrite or www.thekilkennychoir,com WRITING SEMINAR Mayfair Library Writing Seminar with author Brendan MacEvilly takes place on Tuesday December

16th 10am-1pm. Learn how to get your writings from page to publication. All are welcome.

RESHAPING STRUCTURES All our parishes have begun to collaborate in our Pastoral Areas. This exciting development allows for the sharing of resources and ideas. In recent years Dioceses have started to come together in a similar fashion to be better able to serve the people in their care. Join with Very Rev Albert McDonnell and Ms Gemma Mulligan this evening to explore the possibilities of such collaborations on Monday 15th December at 7.30pm in St Kieran’s College.

KNEELERS The remaining kneelers were recently recovered in the Cathedral. There is no hardship in coming to pray here! We were able to do this thanks to your support of the parish and thanks to the many Friends of the Cathedral who through continuous, monthly, donations support the upkeep and improvement of the fabric of the Cathedral - a sincere thanks to all.

PATRONAGE OF PRIMARY SCHOOLS The current Department of Education survey on the future of patronage in the primary sector is important in that it will shape the discussion on primary school divesting for the years to come throughout the Republic of Ireland. It is important that those who wish for a change in patronage would have their voice heard. It is equally important that that those who wish for a Catholic Education for their children and for those who would wish for sacramental preparation within school would have their voice heard also. For those reasons and to ensure that an accurate picture emerges, please participate in this survey if you are a parent or a prospective parent of a Primary school student. It can be accessed at www.gov.ie/primaryschool survey.

MEDJUGORJE EVENING OF PRAYER Medjugorje Evening of Prayer. Rosary-MassAdoration in St Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy on 15th December at 7.30pm. Please note change of date.

CHAPTER HOUSE BOOKSHOP A range of Christmas Mass Bouquets, Christmas Cards, Cribs, Christmas Gifts now available. Open Monday & Tuesday 9.30am - 1.00pm and Wednesday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm.

ROTA Readers Next Weekend 11.00am – C. Kabuika, 5.30pm – Sr. Nuala. Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am-B. Quinn, D. Quinn, B. Dunphy: 5.30pm –R. Neary, B. Cagney.

SAFEGUARDING Your parish safeguarding reps: Sr Betty Cagney, Martina Lawlor. Contact: safeguardingstmarys@ ossory.ie FRIENDSHIP INVITE Invite your family members to support the Cathedral Friends of St Mary’s Cathedral at www. stmaryscathedal.ie/friends KILMACOW CHRISTMAS CARDS Christmas Cards in aid of the Hospice Movement are on sale in local retail outlets. The cost per packet of 12 cards is €10. All support welcome.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s draw were 2, 5, 15 and 19. There were two Match 3 winners. The Jackpot for next Thursday night is €1,950.

TABLE QUIZ The next quiz in the monthly series in the Fox’s Den will be in aid of the Parent’s Association of St. Senan’s National School and will be held at 8.00pm on Monday, 12th January ’26. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcome.

KILMACOW YOUTH CLUB Well done to the Youth Club who hosted the Christmas Craft Fair in the Community Centre on Sunday.

There were loads of arts, crafts toys and games. The festive music helped to create a lovely atmosphere for those on the stalls and for those supporting the event.

CHRISTMAS IN KILNASPIC Local children will present Little Angel Silverhair together with Christmas Carols from 7.00pm on Tuesday, 23rd December. All are welcome. You can bet the Bardons’ have an input in this.

UNDER 16A FOOTBALL Well done to the players and coaches of St. Senan’s Under 16A football team who beat O’Loughlin Gaels in the recent Championship Final held at O’Loughlin Gael’s home ground.

Kilmacow got off to a great start and were in command in the first half and went in at the break with a handsome lead. As anticipated, they had to withstand great pressure in the second half from determined opponents. Kilmacow maintained a

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Community & GAA Notes

Kilmacow victorious Under 16 footballers

huge work ethic in the second half with the defence steadfast at all times. They held out to the end and the celebration of an A championship coming to Kilmacow was a cause for great celebration.

Congratulations to the team and to their mentors, Martin Gillespie, David Williams, Ray Harney, Paddy Dollard and Anthony McNamara.

MULLINAVAT BIGWOOD Well done to all involved in erecting and decorating the Christmas Tree in Bigwood. It is a most welcoming landmark for locals and visitors to Bigwood over the Christmas season. Yulefest funding from Kilkenny County Council contributed towards the cost.

THANK YOU Well done to all who supported Cake Sale in aid of the Defibrillator Fund which was held in the Parish Hall last Sunday morning, 30th November. The event was a great success and the funds are to be directed to a most worthy cause.

PILTOWN CAROL SERVICE Piltown Choir will host a Christmas Journey to Bethlehem in Piltown Church at 7.30pm tomorrow, Thursday, 11th December. Among those taking part will be Piltown Choir, Children’s Choir, Ferrybank Folk Group, Kilmacow Guests. Soloists will include Lance, O’Brien, Noel Slattery, Caroline Reid O’Brien, Sara Mackey, Noel O’Regan (Organist), Ursula Kenny (Conductor) and Fr. Pascal Moore.

MOONCOIN CRAFT FAIR The Christmas Craft Fair will be held in Mooncoin Parish Hall from 1.00pm on Sunday, 14th December

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL OFF TO A GREAT START Christmas got off to a great start in Ballyragget last weekend- the Christmas market in the CYMS hall visited by Santa was attended by a large crowd with fantastic stalls selling crafts and baked goods. This was followed by the turning on of the Christmas lights by Joe and Mary Phelan of the Cafe and the addition of a brand new sleigh unveiled with the help of Rose of Tralee Katelyn Cummins. On Sunday there was a carol service in the church organised by the parish choir in aid of the O Gorman Home and Ballyragget National School, it featured Castlecomer Male voice choir, Ballyragget National School, Cois Nore and the Ballyragget Ballyouskill Parish Choir. The great support shown to the carol service was truly appreciated.

TABLE QUIZ There will be a table quiz in The Wheel Inn on Friday the 12th at 9.30 in aid or Maria Hogan table of four €40.

CHRISTMAS WREATHS The Church of the Assumption Ballyouskill has on display a Christmas Wreath made by a group from Ballyouskill over the past few weeks - This gorgeous Wreath was made possible with the help of KCETB,Ballyouskill Development Association, and the ladies from the Ballyouskill Guild of the ICA LOTTO WON The St Patrick’s GAA lotto was won last week. Well done to Paula Kavanagh. The jackpot will start at €3,000. Thanks to all for their support.

JOHNSTOWN CHRISTMAS MASSES

Christmas Wreath on display in Church of the Assumption Ballyouskill.

Mass times for Christmas for the parishes of Urlingford, Johnstown and Galmoy. Christmas Eve, Urlingford 4pm, Johnstown 5pm, Graine 6pm, Galmoy 7pm, Crosspatrick 8pm. Christmas Day Urlingford 9am, Galmoy 10.15 am and Johnstown 11am.

ST. KIERAN’S HALL 500 CLUB DRAW The results for December.1st. Dionne Quinlan (Ml. Quinlan), 2. Michelle Grehan (Marguerite Dermody), 3. Michelle Dooley (M. Dooley), 4. John Wilson (Evelyn Sweeney), 5. Daniel Hughes (Morrisseys), extra Christmas prize Shane Keegan (Mary McCabe) This being the last draw, the committee wish to express sincere thanks to all who supported the 500 club. The revenue from this draw is vital for the day to day running of the Hall.

SPA UNITED AFC the results this week Junior League Division 1 Spa 0 Freebooters B 1, U15 boys league division 2 Freebooters 2 Spa 1, U15 girls league division 1 Evergreen 4 Spa 1, U14 girls league division 1 Spa 1 Thomastown 1, U13 girls league division 1A Evergreen 0 Spa 2. The U10 boys played against Freshford and Lions this week.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were 14,19,27,30. There was no jackpot winner, there was two match threes Tony Quinlan and Willie/Ciara.

URLINGFORD

Santa on his way to Mullinavat

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO The December 1st draw produced the following results. The numbers drawn were 1, 2, 16, 17 and the bonus number was 3. There was no match three winner. The five lucky dips of €20 each: Sinead McNally, Katie Doheny, P. Fanning, Ben Ahern, Austine Cleere. Promoters prize: Post Office.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT The December 7th winner of Split the Pot was John Maher who received €636. Congrats on behalf of Clomantagh Squash Club. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut 086 8221832. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Clomantagh Squash Club Please support.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUP Our Active Retirement Group meet every Thursday from 2pm – 4pm. New members welcome.

HAPPY VALLEY TRACTOR RUN On Wednesday December 31st, New Year’s Eve, in aid of Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, Kilkenny.

Registration will begin at 12 noon (Entry €20) with the run departing Norton Engineering E41 D780 at 3pm. A monster Auction with George Chandler at the helm will be held on the day. This annual event which began in 2022 has raised €66,100 for Cois Nore to date. Please come along and support this special event and meet our special guest on the day - Kieran Cuddihy, presenter of Liveline RTE Radio 1.

GRAINE CARDS The progressive 25 card game in Graine hall every Wednesday at 8pm. All are welcome.

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.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME LTI Free L.T.I. Course, which includes Driving Theory/ Driving lessons starting soon, anyone interested in applying call or drop in to the Centre.

MATHS GRINDS Maths Grinds are currently on in the Centre, suitable for Junior Cert and 5th year students. Contact Centre for more information.

YOUTH PROJECT Mill Youth Project: Wednesday Evenings: Age 8 – 12yrs. 5pm – 6.30pm, all welcome.

SOME OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE AT THE CENTRE. Senior Alert Alarms. Clothes Donations. Youth Club.

Allotments. Cois Nore Advice Clinic. General Counselling Available. Adult and Teens. Play Therapy, young people Age 4+.

For more information, contact us on 056 8838466.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

THE ROSARY Will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Saturday before 6pm Mass.

CHRISTMAS MASS Christmas Mass will be celebrated in Ballynonty Community House next Tuesday 16th December at 7pm, with confessions beforehand. All are welcome GATE COLLECTION Gortnahoe Lights Committee would like to thank everyone who donated to the church gate collection last Sunday. The amount collected was €360.

This is for the lights in Gortnahoe Village.

CHRISTMAS PARTY MFRC Senior Social Christmas Party will take place today Wednesday 10th December 1-5pm. Cost €10.

Dinner followed by live music and entertainment, visit from Santa and a very special guest. Booking essential contact Alice Teehan 052-9157992/0831014313 SPIN CLASSES Gortnahoe Community Hall Wednesday 9.30am Body Sculpt, Thursday 5.30pm and 6.15pm - Spin.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

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Sport

Community & GAA Notes See notice in the hall.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL St Vincent de Paul Annual Church Gate Collection will take place in Glengoole this Saturday 13th Dec and Gortnahoe on Sunday, 14th Dec. As this is their only means of raising funds they are very grateful to all who can contribute.

IN OUR HANDS “Preserving Thurles Cathedral” fundraising campaign to support the re-roofing project by donating towards the cost of the slates. Brochures in Church porches.

PILATES WITH RUTH Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 7pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the bingo last Saturday. We had a full hall and it was great to see some extra people coming from the parish.

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information, please contact this number 089 434910 CHRISTMAS CAROLS Christmas Carol Singing Get Together will take place in Mary Willies on Sunday 21st December from 4-6pm. Please come along to Mary Willies and join in the festivities. All musicians and singers are welcome.

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW Gortnahoe Community Hall are holding their Christmas draw on Sunday 21st December in Gortnahoe Hall. The Hall Committee will be delivering tickets and flyers to each house in the parish this week.

There will be great prizes on offer, 1st prize will be €300, 2nd prize €200 plus many other prizes. The Christmas Draw is an important fundraiser for the upkeep of the Community Hall.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Mollie and Leah c/o Catherine Corbett who won €140 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for December is in aid of the Christmas lights for Gortnahoe. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

GLENGOOLE COMMUNITY GROUP Glengoole Community Group Information Evening ‘Have your Say’ will be held this Saturday, 13th December, 6.30 to 7.30pm in Glengoole Hall. Village Enhancement update. Results of recent Community Survey. Opportunity to input into future plans for Glengoole village. Refreshments served. Please keep the date for your diary.

SCHOOL SURVEY For Attention of Parents of children attending Primary Schools or have yet to start: The Department of Education is currently conducting a Primary School Survey that will determine the future provision of Primary Schools and crucially could lead to lasting changes in your school. In simple, direct terms, you are being asked if you want your school to stay a Catholic school or if you want that to change. Don’t leave it to others, have your say about your Catholic School before 16th December 2025. Survey can be accessed on: https://www. gov.ie/en/department-of-education/campaigns/ primary-school-survey.

CONAHY JOHN BUTLER MEMORIAL POC FADA The annual John Butler Memorial Poc Fada takes place as in previous years on St. Stephen’s Day at 2.00. The route will again start from the top of the Gragara Road at the High Dinan Bridge down past Jenkinstown Wood to the Polo Grounds. Entry costs €20 per team of three, and each group must have at least one adult in their group. The event will be followed by refreshments and the presentation of trophies in Conahy Shamrocks Clubhouse at 5.00 p.m. that evening. All are welcome to take part.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 7, 13 and 33. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prizes were Mary Flynn, Donnacha Bergin, Breda Kavanagh, Jenny, Fiona and Peter Long, and Marie Jackman. The promoter prize winners were Larry Bergin, Mona Dooley and Margaret Buggy. Many thanks to everyone who

continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS Afternoon Adult Book Club - This month our afternoon book club has chosen to read “Duffy and Sons” by Damien Owens. Copies of this book are currently available at the desk, so why not pick up a copy and join us for a lively discussion on Tuesday, December 16th from 2.30 to 3.30. Phone (056) 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie to join up.

Evening Adult Book Club - If afternoons don’t suit why not join our evening book club. This month we are reading “And every morning the way home gets longer and longer” by Frederick Backman. If you would like to meet fellow readers, enjoy new book recommendations and explore new authors then do join us on Tuesday, December 16th from 6.30 to 7.30. Phone (056) 4440561 or email castlecomer@ kilkennylibrary.ie to join up.

Friendship Bracelet Workshop for Taylor Swift’s Birthday - On Saturday, December 13th from 11:30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., in honour of Taylor Swift’s Birthday, we are hosting a bracelet making workshop for children ages six and up. Booking required by phoning (056) 4440561 or emailing castlecomer@ kilkennylibrary.ie .

Customer Appreciation Day - Join us on Thursday, December 18th as we say a huge thank you to everyone who has come through our doors this Christmas. We will have the Castlecomer community school choir singing a few songs at 11.00 a.m.

We look forward to seeing everyone for tea or coffee and a few treats too!

Callum claims Cross Country Championship Callum Barron

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 14th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.

PRAY FOR Months Mind Mass; Maudie Dunne, Stoneyford; Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 13th. December at 6.30p.m.

Anniversary Mass: Michael Kelly, Castlemorris; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday at 8.00p,m.

ROTA (THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT) Readers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Neill O’Grady. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron: Sunday 10.00a.m Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Jakub Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Margaret Kenneally, Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr. Note: New Rota for Hugginstown Church available in the Church Sacristy.

SERVICE OF HEALING Service of Healing and Penitential Service will be celebrated in preparation for Christmas during Masses on weekend: Saturday 13th. December in Stoneyford and Hugginstown Churches and on Sunday 14th.December in Hugginstown Church CHANGE OF CONFIRMATION DATE Confirmation will be celebrated for Monroe and Newmarket Schools on Saturday 25th. April at 10.00a.m. Confirmation will be celebrated for Stoneyford School on Saturday 25th. April at 12.00Noon.

HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT YOUR SCHOOL For Attention of Parents of children attending Primary Schools. The Department of Education is currently conducting a Primary School Survey that will determine the future provision of Primary Schools and crucially could lead to lasting changes in your school. In simple, direct terms, you are being asked if you want your school to stay a Catholic School or if you want that to change. Don’t leave it to others, have your say before 16th. December 2025 NOVEMBER OFFERINGS Many thanks for your very generous contributions over the past few weeks LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. The Draw: Monday 1st. December 2025 Numbers: 09; 26; 27; 11. There was no winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. There was no jackpot winner. The €30.00. Winners: Jim Brennan, Lawcus; Margaret Cuddihy, Knocktopher, Eoghan Dalton, Lismatigue; Margaret Walsh, Coolmore; Angela Barron, Romansvalley. The 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Pat Fitzgerald; Eamonn Irish; Jimmy Walsh.

REGISTER FOR ANAM CARA ONLINE BEREAVEMENT INFORMATION EVENING Anam Cara offer informational packets, providing information about our supports, grieving processes, and ways to support families through this immensely challenging time. If your community would like a set of packets, or to find out more about the services we offer please email us at info@anamcara. ie or call 085 2888888

Graignamanagh’s Callum Barron (19), representing Kilkenny City Harriers, delivered an outstanding performance to claim the national title in the Novice Men’s 6000m at the Cross Country Championships in Abbotstown, Dublin.

Battling a demanding and mud-soaked course, Barron faced an added setback when he lost one

of his running spikes mid-race. Despite the difficulty, he maintained his momentum, powering through the challenging terrain to cross the finish line in an impressive time of 20:48.

Barron, who trains under coaches Niamh and Noel Richardson, said he was “over the moon” with the result. He explained that

his strategy was simple, he decided to “just go for it today,” a mindset that clearly paid off. His triumph not only marks a personal milestone but also brings the coveted national title back to Kilkenny, adding to the region’s proud athletic tradition and highlighting Barron as a rising talent in Irish distance running.

O’Loughlin Gaels history launch Tuesday night, 16th December promises to be a big night for O’Loughlin Gaels as the club launches its history “Under One Banner”.

Written by the club’s PRO, Conor Denieffe, the book tells the story of O’Loughlin Gaels Club from its formation in 1969 to the present day, 2025.

It details the many games, the scores, the players and personalities, the triumphs and celebrations along with the setbacks and disappointments as the club grew to what it is today. It covers all aspects and activities of the club over the years, hurling, football, camogie and handball along with primary schools and the development of O'Loughlin's home, St. John’s Park.

Containing over 330 pages and a wide range of pictures hovering the entire period behind an eye catching cover, the book will be a must have this Christmas for all GAA fans and those interested in local history.

There is an open invitation to all to attend the launch in O’Loughlin Gaels clubhouse at 8pm on Tuesday 16th.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Hurlng matters Hurling matters- Review

Sport

Danesfort Leinster Intermediate Champions

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB Leinster Club IHC final Danesfort 2-15 Ratoath 0-12 It wasn’t in the script, one of the greatest making their first appearance of the season in the provincial final, and helping his side turn a deficit into victory, but that is exactly what Richie Hogan did in Pairc Tailteann last Sunday. Trailing Ratoath by six points as the game entered its last quarter, Adrian Burke rolled the dice and sent on 7-time Liam MacCarthy winner Richie Hogan to inject some much-needed chaos into proceedings, and that is exactly what the Kilkenny legend added to the decider in Navan. The diminutive former Hurler of the Year notched 1-1 but his mere presence was enough to create a little bit of fear in the Meath Champions ranks as those in black and amber registered 2-9 in the final 15 minutes to turn a near certain defeat into an historic win to claim the Tommy Murphy Cup,

Danesfort deliver Leinster crown!

Richie Hogan cameo helps Burke’s men claim Tommy Murphy Cup silverware named after the late father of Danesfort’s Paul Murphy, who along with team captain, Diarmuid Phelan raised the cup in celebration.

The home side got off to a flyer, Daithi McGowan getting the scoreboard moving inside 20 seconds.

The talented Daire O’Neill responded for Danesfort, but any momentum was spoiled by some uncharacteristic shooting, which resulted in several wides. Ratoath’s top marksman, Padraig O’Hanrahan punished the Noresiders wastefulness and notched 0-5 to leave Andy Dermody’s side five

clear at the end of the first quarter.

When Cathal Kearney whipped over his sides third score of the final, the Royal County side were four ahead with about seven minutes of the half remaining. County star ‘Podge’ O’Hanrahan tagged on his 7th score of the afternoon and the last score of the opening period came from centre back Darragh Kelly to leave the Meath champions up by six, having had the wind at their backs in Pairc Tailteann.

When the Kilkenny champions returned to the pitch, their opponents kept them waiting, but this didn’t

appear to upset Adrian Burke’s men, as they had more of a spring in their step when play resumed. The energetic Cathal O’Neill got things going for the visitors, striking over a fine point on 32 minutes. One of the rising stars for the ‘Fort is Anthony Ireland Wall and the U20 star fired over a tidy point and the men from the Marble City built on this with another fine score from Sam Hayes as the deficit was cut to three points.

As was the case in the first half, Ratoath were relying heavily on the contribution of Padraig O’Hanrahan

and the prolific forward struck the games next three scores to restore the hosts 6-point lead on 44 minutes.

Then came the momentum shifter for Danesfort, the great Richie Hogan was sprung from the bench in place of Colm Phelan. The games next score came from a placed ball, courtesy of Anthony Ireland Wall, and the first of two majors was not far away. A handling error from Ratoath keeper, Colm O’Riordan saw the ball drop in a crowded square, but thankfully Sam Hayes had the presence of mind to flick the sliotar through his own legs

Stafford strike sinks Shamrocks dreams The wait for provincial title No.13 goes on for Henry’s men AIB Leinster Club SHC Final Shamrocks Ballyhale 2-17 St Martin’s 0-24 An injury time score from sub Ben Stafford secured a first ever senior Leinster hurling title for St Martin’s of Wexford as they secured victory over Shamrocks Ballyhale in Croke Park last weekend. The O’Connor brothers were very to the fore as Daithi Hayes’s team set up a mouthwatering clash with Ballygunner in the All-Ireland semifinal to be played the weekend before Christmas. For Henry Shefflin and his side, they will have time to reflect on a season that delivered a 21st county title before dusting themselves down to go again next summer.

The Kilkenny champions made one change to the advertised lineup with Dara Mason replacing the experienced Brian Butler at corner back. When Dublin whistler Chris Mooney got matters underway, the Wexford side hit two early wide’s into Hill 16, the swirling wind proving tricky for the shooters. TJ took on the wind at the other end in the 3rd minute and opened the scoring in the Leinster final from a placed ball.

Jack O’Connor then won possession and gave a pass to his cousin Barry who settled the St Martin’s nerves by popping the ball over the bar seconds later to level matters. A long ball from

Darragh Corcoran into the danger zone, saw TJ flick it towards Brian Cody, who pointed from close range.

Some lovely improvisation from Paddy Mullen saw the ball worked to Richie Reid, who struck over a lovely effort from under the Hogan Stand on halfway. A strong diagonal run from Rory O’Connor resulted in the county man strike over a sweet score, despite pressure from Dara Mason. Some direct running from Eoin Cody saw the livewire held up illegally and TJ slotted over the free.

Then came a major score for the Noresiders. Richie Reid played one of his trademark diagonal balls deep into the St Martin’s defence, where Brian Cody did brilliantly to win it. Under huge pressure from his marker, the full forward managed to pop a pass to his brother Eoin, who turned his man before striking a fierce shot into the ground and beyond the reach of Callum Quirke. Henry’s outfit five ahead after 9 minutes of the provincial decider. Daithi Haye’s men got a much-needed score from the restart, ref Mooney spotting a little push from Joey Holden which saw Rory O’Connor collect his second of the evening. The scorer then turned provider, as he gave a pass to Mikey Coleman, who split the posts from distance, which brought cheers from the travelling Wexford contingent.

Eoin Cody then showed his class and skill as he outthought and outfought Joe Barrett before rifling over a stunning score from close to the Hogan sideline.

More battling qualities saw goalscorer Cody win a free which TJ converted to push the Shamrocks lead back out to five points after 17 minutes in Croke Park. Former AFL player Barry O’Connor then showed his strength, holding off his man before passing to Darran Cod who struck over a fine score, similar to that of Eoin Cody moments earlier.

O’Connors to the fore again, when Rory gave the ball to Jack who fired over from distance. A little rub of the green for St Martin’s saw Darragh Corcoran blown up for over carrying, when it appeared he was being fouled by about 3 players. The free was worked short and returned to Jack O’Connor to split the posts from a central position and reduce his sides arrears to just 2 points. Evan Shefflin, operating again in midfield then struck over a quality point from the centre of Croker to remind people of his quality.

More physical power from Barry O’Connor saw him draw the foul from Joey Holden, and Barry O’Connor slotted the free. Seconds later, Jack draws the foul from Eoin Kenneally; yellow card to the Ballyhale man.

Rory coverts the resulting placed ball and leave just the bare minimum between the sides. Another case of Deja vu, Joey gets blown up again, Rory O’Connor clever and converting his own free, the sides level in Drumcondra. Ronan Corcoran then became the second player in green to receive a yellow card, this time a swipe across the arm of Darren Cod.

A lose swing of the hurl from Dara Mason on Mikey Coleman, another free another point and the lead for the men from Piercestown and that is how the first half ended, with the men in maroon taking a 1-point lead to the changing room.

Having settled into their first Leinster decider St Martin’s appeared to be playing with little or no fear and huge desire. Place ball specialist Rory O’Connor got the scoreboard moving after the interval, this time from play to double his sides lead.

Some nice play working the ball out of defence by the Wexford side saw Jack O’Connor get the ball and the classy stickman sent over a fine score, his third of the game. From the restart, Daithi Hayes’s men took possession and Darren Cod split the posts from out the field to the delight of the majority in attendance. Shamrocks now trailed by four points. Former Kilkenny camogie All-Star Grace Walsh’s fiancé Jack O’Connor was then shown a yellow card for making contact with the back of Darragh Corcoran’s helmet. TJ Reid converted the free, the Kilkenny sides first score since the 21st minute to make it a one-score game in the early stages of the second half. Paddy Mullen then took a lovely catch before firing over, despite the best efforts of his marker, a well taken score. Eoin Cody’s battling qualities then saw him win a free which he took quickly, passing to TJ, who swiveled and rifled over from midfield for a third Shamrocks score on the bounce, the first time in the final that Henry’s charges had managed this.

The O’Connor brothers then

combined once more, this time Rory picking out Jack whose radar was certainly bang on in the Leinster final. The games second major then arrived. Paddy Mullen sent a long low pass towards Niall Shortall who was under pressure, but the ball broke to Eoin Cody who raced towards goal before popping a pass to Shortall who finished superbly to edge the Shamrocks into the lead with about 20 minutes remaining. Henry’s team didn’t hold the lead for long. Jack O’Connor played a quick one, two from a sideline ball before striking off his left-hand side under the Hogan. Another battle won around the middle saw the ball worked out to Mikey Coleman, who fired over from close to the Cusack sideline as the Slaneysiders regained the lead at the Jones’ Road venue. Another O’Connor combo saw St Martin’s double their lead once more. Jack battle with Evan Shefflin, the referee adjudged the Shamrocks man to have fouled the former and brother Rory did the needful from the free.

Shamrocks broke the opposition scoring sequence when Dara Mason fired over having been well picked out by Darragh Corcoran’s accurate pass. Then came a lovely score from the Wexford champions. Rory O’Connor took a brilliant catch from behind Killian Corcoran before turning and rifling over from a tight angle under the Hogan, a classy score from a classy hurler. Brian Cody then notched his second score of the decider from the edge of the ‘D’ to leave his side just one in arrears.

Some more excellent desire from Eoin Cody saw the forward fouled

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Hurling matters for a crucial score that reduced the Diarmuid deficit to 2 points.

Phelan and Another fine score from play Paul Murphy

by Anthony Ireland Wall and a Raise the sweet one from Fionn O’Mahony Tommy deadlocked matters with just over Murphy Cup eight minutes of normal time remaining in Pairc Tailteann. Then came the games defining score from the legendary Hogan. A long ball into the Ratoath defence was claimed by Liam Corbett, who firstly showed great composure to flick the ball over the head of Ireland wall but then played a looping pass across his square which appeared to catch Conor McGill by surprise, as the corner back juggled with the sliotar was won by Richie. Anthony Ireland as he tried to take possession and Wall knocked over his fifth point this allowed the prowling Richie of the final, just ahead of a Hogan to steal the ball before score from Richie Hogan. striking it past netminder Robbie Walsh tagged on his Colm O’Riordan. Queue wild second of the day and the cheers from the Danesfort games last score to leave supporters in Navan, their the winning margin at side now lead by 3 points. nice points, a little harsh Andy Dermody’s side had on the Meath side, but no answer to the waves of take nothing away from black and amber. Robbie Adrian Burke’s Walsh then split the posts charges, they to make it a two-score were deserved game with just over winners. six minutes left to Final score: play. Not to be Danesfort outdone by his 2-15 Ratoath more famous 0-12. brother, Danesfort Danesfort keeper scorers: Paddy Hogan Anthony converted two Ireland Wall long range Richie Hogan relaxing after his 0-5 (0-3f), Sam placed balls, match winning cameo in Navan Hayes 1-1, R one of which

Eoin Cody was Shamrocks main threat in Croker

Niall Shorthall put in a good shift in the final

and get the free which TJ dispatched to deadlock matters in Croker. One of the St Martin’s men really enjoying the occasion was Jack O’Connor and the intercounty star continued his fine shooting by splitting the posts from the sideline once more.

Shamrocks made their first change of the evening with ten minutes remaining, Dylan Aylward replacing Liam Barron.

With time flying by, Richie Reid took a free from deep inside his own half. His brother rose and collected it before handpassing to the supporting Niall Shortall who struck over from wide on the right to even things up one again. St Martin’s cornerback, Joe Barrett capped a terrific defensive display by firing over a point of his own, as his sides supporters found their voices once more. All evening, it had been Eoin Cody that looked the most dangerous of the Shamrocks forwards, and he showed this once more, driving infield before rifling over from ‘65 out to level proceedings again. TJ was then blown for a nudge on Darren Codd and this gave Rory O’Connor the opportunity to add to his growing tally of scores. Henry then sent on John Fitzpatrick for Ronan Corcoran as time ticked by.

Niall Shortall then managed to claim

Hogan 1-1, Paddy Hogan 0-2 (0-2f), R Walsh 0-2, Cathal Kearney 0-1 (0-1f), Daire O’Neill 0-1, Cathal O’Neill 0-1, Fionn Mahony 0-1.

Ratoath scorers: Padraig O’Hanrahan 0-10 (0-8f), Daithi McGowan 0-1, Darragh Kelly 0-1.

Danesfort: Paddy Hogan; Adam Byrne, Diarmuid Phelan, Darragh Coverdale; Des Dunne, Paul Murphy, Daire O’Neill; Cathal Kearney, Cathal O’Neill; Robbie Walsh, Dan Dowling, Sam Hayes; Anthony Ireland Wall, Colm Phelan, Fionn Mahony.

Subs: Richie Hogan for Phelan 44, Aiden Cowley for Dowling 57.

Ratoath: Colm O’Riordan; Liam Corbett, Ben McGowan, Conor McGill; Niall McLarnon, Darragh Kelly, Domhnall Rogers; Ciaran O’Hanrahan, Jack McGowan; Rob Hayes, Daithi McGowan, Padraig O’Hanrahan; Bryan McMahon, Cian Rogers, Gavin McGowan.

Subs: Tomas Corbett for Hayes 55.

Referee: Conor Daly (Kildare).

Ronan Corcoran found it tough in midfield

possession before splitting the posts as the sides could not be separated.

Another change for the Wexford champions saw Bend Stafford replace the hard-working Jake Firman. Paddy Mullen then did well to win possession before somehow offloading to TJ who gave the ball to his younger brother Richie who sent a booming effort between the posts with 59 minutes played in the capital.

A third change for the Noresiders saw Conor Phelan come in for Evan Shefflin as the game entered its final moments. St Martin’s were seeking a levelling score, rucks a plenty, pinball here and there. Brian Cody emerged with the sliotar but was blown up for charging, much to his dismay. Rory O’Connor stepped up and fired over his 11th score of the final to deadlock matters once more.

Shamrocks restarted things, and the ball was inside the Wexford sides half, more pinball, more nerves. The ball found its way to Jack O’Connor who bulldosed his way through several green jerseys, and the ball came out to Ben Stafford. The sub steadied himself before striking an incredible effort from under the Cusack Stand which Dean Mason watched sail between his posts. That was to be the winning score. St Martin’s by one in

Henry Shefflin will want his Shamrocks team to bounce back next season

the 2025 Leinster Final. Shamrocks Ballyhale 2-17 St Martin’s 0-24.

Shamrocks Ballyhale scorers: TJ Reid 0-6 (0-5f), Eoin Cody 1-2, Niall Shortall 1-2, Brian Cody 0-2, Richie Reid 0-2, Evan Shefflin 0-1, Paddy Mullen 0-1, Dara Mason 0-1.

St Martin’s scorers: Rory O’Connor 0-11 (0-8f), Jack O’Connor 0-6, Michael Coleman 0-2, Darren Codd 0-2, Barry O’Connor 0-1, Joe Barrett 0-1, Ben Stafford 0-1.

Shamrocks Ballyhale: Dean Mason; Killian Corcoran, Joey Holden, Dara Mason; Eoin Kenneally, Darragh Corcoran, Richie Reid; Evan Shefflin, Ronan Corcoran; Liam Barron, Eoin Cody, TJ Reid; Paddy Mullen, Brian Cody, Niall Shortall.

Subs: Dylan Aylward for Barron 51, John Fitzpatrick for Ronan Corcoran 57, Conor Phelan for Shefflin 60.

St Martin’s: Callum Quirke; Eoin O’Leary, Conor Firman, Joe Barrett; Philip Dempsey, Daithi Waters, Diarmuid O’Leary; David Codd, Aaron Maddock; Darren Codd, Jake Firman, Jack O’Connor; Michael Coleman, Barry O’Connor, Rory O’Connor.

Subs: Ben Maddock for Coleman 50, Ben Stafford for Jake Firman 59, Referee: Chris Mooney (Dublin).

Urlingford crowned Roinn B County Champions after commanding display in Dunmore vs Rower Inistioge

MW Hire Dunmore Park was in immaculate condition for the Under-13 Boys Roinn B County Final, where two in-form sides, Urlingford and The Rower Inistioge met after edging their respective semi-finals. With a lively crowd gathered and John McCormack taking charge of proceedings, anticipation was high. Urlingford’s sixth-class duo, Dylan Tobin and Jayden Elfehli, won the toss and wisely chose to play with a strong breeze at their backs.

The opening passages were played at a blistering pace. Both teams moved the ball crisply, carving out promising buildups but finding no early joy on the scoreboard thanks to disciplined defending at both ends. After six tense minutes, Urlingford finally struck the opening blow. Padraig Bourke burst through the centre with a surging run before feeding Eoin Gibbons, who split the posts to settle his side.

The Rower responded admirably, pushing forward in numbers, but Urlingford’s defensive unit, anchored by the ever-reliable goalkeeper Alex Cashin refused to yield. With just a single point on the board after 12 minutes, The Rower would have been pleased with their resilience into the wind.

But Urlingford then clicked into a higher gear.

A high, dangerous ball caused chaos in The Rower square, and Paudie Power, one of Urlingford’s heroes in their semi-final, reacted quickest, fisting home a crucial goal. Confidence surged. Wingbacks Oisín Sweetman and Conal Lyng, along with tournament standout Dara Hickey, drove wave after wave of attacks. Skilful forwards Cian Doyle and Will Bergin profited from the quality supply, linking beautifully as Urlingford tacked on further scores.

In the closing stages of the

half, The Rower threatened, but courageous defending from the likes of David Maev and the tenacious Nial Rothwell and Cillian Tobin kept them at bay.

Three more points from Gibbons ensured Urlingford reached the break with a commanding 1-6 to 0-0 lead.

With the wind now favouring The Rower, the game remained far from settled. Their intent was clear immediately after the restart, pouncing for a well-taken goal that left Cashin with no chance.

Suddenly, the pressure was on. But when leaders were needed most, Hickey and Maev stood tallest, shutting down attacks and setting the tone defensively.

The Rower pushed hard throughout the half, yet Cashin’s composure and sharp reflexes repeatedly denied them.

Urlingford refused to panic, sticking to their flowing passing game. Darragh Joyce emerged as a driving force, carrying ball with pace and intelligence, creating chances for Bergin, Gibbons and Power, who accounted for Urlingford’s four second-half points. A pointed free gave The Rower a consolation, but they could not close the gap as Urlingford finished deserved 1-10 to 1-2 winners.

Fourth-class players contributed superbly, and substitutes Jayden Elfehli, Rae Choe and Dylan Tobin made strong impacts.

At the final whistle, Urlingford celebrated with class, showing warm sportsmanship toward a gallant Rower side. Joint captains Dara Hickey and Padraig Bourke lifted the cup to rapturous cheers, with Cashin and Bergin speaking impressively afterwards.

For a group who had endured heartbreak in recent seasons, this triumph felt like the perfect fairy tale ending, and the beginning of an exciting future.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Barry Daly, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for (1) a change of use of the ground floor level from shop (previously travel agents) to restaurant use (2) material alterations and construction of a single storey extension to the rear of the property at ground floor level (3) material alterations to existing residential accommodation at first and second floor levels to create a 1 bedroom apartment and (4) all associated site development works at 78 and 78A, John Street Lower, Kilkenny R95 EF84 (No. 78) and R95 Y043 (No. 78A).

The proposed development consists of works to a protected structure (Protected Structure Ref: B105 Kilkenny County) and is located within the John Street Architectural Conservation Area. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, 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: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

Planning permission is sought by Bill Connolly to carry out the following works: 1 - Construction of new dog kennels with associated metal gates, fences & lights.

2 - Construction of a new domestic garage with domestic storage above.

3 - All associated site developments works at the site situated at Pollough, Skeaghvasteen, Co.Kilkenny, R95 NRA0 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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Miroslav and Andriana Tsankova, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Permission, to retain indefinitely a single storey modular garden pod for home office use and all associated works to the side of our existing dwelling house at 2 Upper Garringreen, Kilkenny R95 X5T9.

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: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mary Hoban wish to apply to above authority for permission for the following at No. 90 Larchfield, Kilkenny. (a)Provision of new vehicular entrance from Public Road (b)Associated Removal of Front boundary wall (c)Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Mary Hoban

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Mark Simpson and Karen Jones, shall lodge Significant Further Information to Planning Application 2560306 for permission for the erection of a dwelling house, connection to local water and sewerage schemes and all associated site works. The Significant Further Information includes the relocation of the site entrance and all associated works at Curraghscarteen, Tullaroan, Co.Kilkenny.

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

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

Further Information/Revised Plans: Orla Phelan and Stephen Ahern have submitted significant further information to planning application 2560554 which consisted of outline planning permission to construct a two storey dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater treatment system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Kilbraghan, Callan, Co. Kilkenny The significant further information includes for: 1. Adjustments to the site boundaries 2. The relocation of the proposed dwelling and garage Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We Richard and Louise Dalton intend to apply for Planning Permission for a change of house type, change of garage and carport design, relocation of the proposed dwelling and garage from previously granted planning permission ref. no. P. 21/654 and all associated site development works at Clashacrow, Freshford, Co. Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, John Dunphy, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for development of a small 2-storey extension to the south elevation of the existing dwelling and all associated alterations and site works at Dairyhill, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny.

Signed: Robert M. Cummins - Cummins + Voortman Ltd (Architects www.cvltd.ie) The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee 20 euros, within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

056 777 1463

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. C.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. D.C.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. J.C.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S.

54

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025

Classifieds

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 12th December 2025