Picture Special.......... P40

John Valentine

Tommy Hackett

kieran Phelan Tom Buggy

Diona Hickey and Grainne Lambert

Darkness Into Light

Darkness Into Light, the annual fundraising event organised by Pieta, who provide life-saving support services for those in suicidal distress and who have been bereaved through suicide, took place as the sun rose on Saturday May 7th, 2022. Darkness Into Light is a global movement dedicated to raising vital funds for Pieta’s life-saving services. Hosted in St James Stephens Military Barracks, the walk was a huge success, Loreto Choir, Kilkenny Gospel choir and Lady Desart choir provided the dawn chorus for participants. Sub Aqua were represented in a search and rescue boat on the River Nore. e re department lit up the route on the Canal Walk. e Drum youth group decorated the venue with some inspirational art pieces and the whole of Kilkenny community came together to deliver the important message that we all need to hear – you are not alone. e civil defence and Order of Malta’s presence made us feel safe as participants ran or walked the ve km route through the city of Kilkenny, beginning in darkness and ending with the morning Light.

Because of the walks that took place here in Kilkenny city and in Inistioge, the Darkness into Light walk raised almost €80,000. Due to the kindness of supporters, Pieta house were able to provide 48,000 hours of intervention and bereavement counselling and to answer over 90,000 calls and texts to our 24/7 Helplines in 2021. ey also supported over 600 people and families devastated by the loss of a loved one to suicide.

As stated by Local Chairperson Aurellia Glynn “ As a united people on this walk, who are joined by venues worldwide and all across Ireland we put our arms around all of those that have lost a loved one to suicide, we want to give them a time to remember, a time to heal, a time to hope. We want to help all of those who are struggling, encouraging them not to lose heart, to hold on and to nd a way out of the dark. We are shining a light on the shadow of stigma – we are making it easier for all of us to speak up, to talk about how we are feeling, to ask for help.”

To avail of Pieta services, visit www.pieta.ie or call 0818 111 126. Pieta provides 24/7 support via the Freephone crisis helpline on 1800 247 247, or text HELP to 51444.

Community Group

Getting our heating plans ready for next winter !

For the seniors of today our main concern is the crazy increase in the cost of living and the ongoing massive rise in our daily bills. Everything is now under pressure. Last week we spoke about the powers talking about the price of an egg to increase by 5 – 10cent. Heating our homes is on the rise but hopefully we will have a good summer and 2022/23 winter season will be as mild as last year. With the news from the Ukraine not getting any better and Russia now using Gas as a weapon the only way is up with gas and oil heating bills.

Energy poverty is a persistent and complex social, environmental, and political phenomenon and is not unique to Ireland. A household is energy poor, if / when that household is unable to achieve an adequate (i.e. comfortable and safe) standard of warmth, and supply of energy services at an a ordable cost. Undeniably, energy poverty has signi cant implications for a household’s quality of life, as well as physical and mental health, and is considered a standalone indicator of deprivation distinct from poverty in general. e causes of energy poverty are generally attributed to three key factors: the characteristics of a dwelling (including appliances), the cost of energy (price) and the consumption habits or needs of the household.

Energy poverty disproportionately a ects low or xed-income households, particularly those in receipt of State payments like the OAP. Current levels are also further exacerbated by demographic factors such as age, health, and energy needs. It also impacts signi cantly and negatively upon social inclusion and cohesion, well-being and mental / physical health as the energy poor population is statistically more likely to report poor health and emotional well-being than the non-energy poor population. Future levels of energy poverty in Ireland are likely to be uniquely exacerbated by several domestic factors which may increase the vulnerability of ‘at risk’ groups, including our seniors e increased nancial pressure of energy costs (i.e., electricity and heating costs) and consequent energy poverty can act to compound situations of social exclusion and inequality. Access to a ordable energy is critical to living and participating in modern society, and as we have seen health e ects of energy poverty can undermine opportunities for education. In addition, to the impacts of the health consequences of energy poverty, being unable to adequately warm your home can reduce social engagement and can lead to reluctance to have visitors or engage socially, further exacerbating exclusion.

Now might be the time for some new outside the box solutions to assist our seniors with the rise in the cost of living. A more targeted approach when funding is available is to assist in our ESB bills rather than the cross the board approach that everyone for the millionaire to the OAP is treated equally with a discount. Extending the Fuel Allowance start and end dates even further again. Increase the OAP by more than a €5 per annum and retro t all houses who are in receipt of the OAP and Fuel allowance as the state would reap the bene ts in the coming years and decades.

Unfortunately, we all know what will happen. ere will be a consultancy group set up at the cost of a million to report back to the government saying what we already know, ‘Yes seniors live in fuel poverty’

Each party will sell you promises when in opposition and when in power we will hear them tell us the same story again of ‘We must balance the books’ or the standard classic ‘It is a lot worse than we thought when we saw the books’.

Time to respect our seniors and ensure that Ireland and Kilkenny are great places to grow old

New Older People’s council executive meet for rst time

e newly elected executive of the Older People’s Council met for the rst time on the 27th of April and with the loss of many ‘experienced’ members who had severed their 6-year term it was a time for the changing of the guard.

Michael Delahanty, who joined the OPC last year after retiring his position as head of the Community Section in the Kilkenny Local Authority, will bring his vast experience and knowledge to the role of Chairperson’s role. Betty Dewberry, the outgoing chairperson, will stay on in the role of vice Chairpersons role. Together they will lead the OPC into the next 2 years. e role of Treasurer remained in the hands of the outgoing o ce holder Eileen Ryan, who had a very detailed account of the group’s nances. Outgoing PRO Murty Brennan stepped down as this is his nal year on the OPC as he will have served his 6-year term of o ce and Mr. Frank Cody will take this media role. e secretary’s Role will now transfer to the very dedicated Kathleen Maher who has been very active in this role since joining the OPC 2 years ago. We wish all the o ce holder s success into the coming 2-year term.

Premises taken over as Civil War erupts in Kilkenny city

In early May 1922, nearly two months prior to the o cial beginning of the Civil War, Kilkenny anti-Treaty IRA units took over 15 buildings in Kilkenny City, most notably St Canice’s Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle. is week, e Kilkenny Observer in conjunction with Cois Céim and e Saturday Walkers group, take a closer look at events of the time

A map showing antiTreaty positions and free positions on day 1 , and movement of Free State troops in how they dislodged the AntiTreaty in their various positions

Wilsdon’s Fort:

Today this property is known as J.B.s Sports Bar. At the time of the civil war, Arthur J Wilsdon was the owner. It was a very strategic position as it commanded a view of the Railway station, the castlecomer road with the approach from the Military barracks. Ri e and machine gun re opened up on the premises from the cast iron railway bridge in upper John Street.After about an hour’s attack Mr Wilsdon’s premises were evacuated. Under cover of machine gun re soldiers rushed the door and a ected an entrance and the occupants were made prisoners. e glass in the upper and lower windows had been shattered and the concrete walls showed evidence of the intensity of the gun re the premises were subjected to. During the attack regular soldiers on duty at Johns Bridge and a number of civilians were startled by a bomb explosion. A bomb had been thrown from a window of a house adjacent to John’s bridge. e soldiers on duty since early morning were unaware the house was occupied except for the owner and his family. After a lull, the ring between the troops resumed at 6.30 on Tuesday evening and continued with great intensity up to 10.30. During this time the Executive forces evacuated City Hall. On resumption of operations regular troops attacked John Street police barracks and after a brief but erce encounter the building was surrendered and the Executive forces taken prisoners. One of the regular soldiers was wounded in the face, during the course of the afternoon another member of the regulars was wounded by a sniper.

e Imperial Hotel:

e next stronghold of the Executive forces to be attacked was the hotel. e garrison had been greatly reinforced by those who had escaped from City Hall. An armoured car was placed in position on the Parade and a gun trained on the hotel. Ri e and machine gun re opened re to which the occupants replied helped by snipers from the Castle Towers. is was one of the ercest engagements of the day lasting from about 8 to 9 o’clock. e Executive forces surrendered and a number were taken prisoners. In the course of the attack Pte Kavanagh from Wexford forced open the back door of the Hotel with his ri e butt and a party of six soldiers rushed the premises. e occupants surrendered and being disarmed were taken prisoners. e remainder escaped and reinforced the garrison in the Castle. Miss O’Neill the proprietress of the hotel refused to leave during the siege. She was told there might be erce ghting but she said she would stick it out and she did. Machine gun and ri e re resounded all over the city, the operations being carried out between the Castle, the Bank of Ireland and the Prison. e city streets were deserted except for small groups gathered in secluded corners. When darkness came the feeling of terror which had come over the city was greatly increased by the fact that the streets remained unlighted. Just before 10’clock when the ring began to ease o a young girl named Margaret Loughman of New Street was seriously wounded at the corner of Walkin Street near the prison as she made her way home with her companion. Where the bullet came from is not known, so far as can be ascertained it ricocheted of the wall of Smithwick’s Bottling Store and struck the young girl in the knee, she lost a great quantity of blood before she was conveyed into the Bottling Store premises. She was attended to by Fr. Drea and received rst aid, she was subsequently removed to the military hospital where an operation was performed. e bullet was not found but it is understood the sinews were badly torn. e young girl has three brothers each of whom spent time in prison on political charges during the recent terror. One is in Ballsbridge training for the Civic Guards, a second brother is a soldier in the Kilkenny garrison, another is a priest in the Redemptorist Order

St Canice’s Cathedral . A photo taken in front of the Towershows a group of Dáil forces a er the surrender of the Tower. Dean Winder is amongst the party Commandant George O’Dwyer

Col- Commandant John Thomas Prout

Ned Aylward , Anti-Treaty IRA Brigade

O/C Dick Brennan , Anti-Treaty IRA leader inside Kilkenny Castle

SENIOR HURLING Clara qualified for the Leinster League final on Sunday by beating the Rower Inistioge in sunny and picturesque Inistioge. It took them a long time to shake o the hosts but a couple of late goals from Paul Cody and Chris Bolger eventually did the trick. 4-19 to 2-19 was how it finished and we wish the team well in the final against Faughs or Clogh/ Ballacolla. Team - Jason Barcoe, James Casey, Jack Langton, Sean O Shea. Shane Staunton 0-1, David Langton 0-3, 0-2f, Conor Cody. Conor O Shea 0-4, 0-3f, 0-1 x65, Liam Ryan 0-3. Paul Cody 2-1, Martin O Connell 0-4, James Nolan 1-1. Dara Glynn, Chris Bolger 1-1, Ciarán Prendergast 0-1. Sub used Joe Connolly. JUNIOR HURLING The Clara Juniors shipped a big beating last week in their opening game of the year at the hands of Mt. Leinster Rangers. Numbers were tight and management will hope to have more players available to them from here on. Team - Jason Barcoe, Jack Carrigan, Tom Ryan, Evan Whearty. Noelie O Brien, James Casey, Alan Coleman. Ciarán Prendergast, Stephen Quinlan. Joe Connolly, Conor (Curly) Phelan, Eoin Curtis. Rory O Kee e, Ruairí Breen,Brandon Ryan. MINOR HURLING Clara made the long journey to Piltown on Monday of last week and came away with a well merited 1-17 to 0-14 win. Short a few players for this one, a rejigging of the forces was required. Regular goalie Cian Kelly was moved to full forward and made his presence felt all game. Orí Phelan took over between the posts and never put a foot wrong in keeping a clean sheet. Conor Hoyne opened the scoring here and it was a sign of things to come because Conor went on to have one of those evenings that everybody dreams of. He scored 0-13 in total, 0-10 from frees from all angles and distances. He had nine of his points scored by half time, a er which Clara led 1-10 to 0-6. The goal had come early from Tommy Delaney, with a bullet of an old fashioned ground strike. Harry Boyle was doing a fine containment job on the Piltown centre forward, while no ball was getting past Ben Murphy. The second half started with two more Conor Hoyne frees and then Piltown began to come into it a bit more. However they found Ben Crow and James Cody in defiant mood in the Clara full back line. When they tried to go down the le flank they found that Alex McDonald and Alex Firbank were in no mood to accommodate them either. Hugh Kelly was proving to be the perfect foil for Conor Hoyne at midfield. Piltown reeled o four points in a row but this only reduced the deficit to five. The work of the half forward line of Ned Langton, Sean Carrigan and Joe Power was vital at this stage to stem the tide and two points in a row by Cian Kelly and a monster 95 yard free from Conor Hoyne sealed the deal for Clara. Dillon Cummins had made the space for Kelly’s point with an intelligent run. Subs Eoin Corr and John Bergin also showed up well. Another good win. Team - Orí Phelan, Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, James Cody. Alex Firbank, Harry Boyle 0-1, Ben Murphy. Conor Hoyne 0-13, 0-10f, Hugh Kelly. Ned Langton 0-1, Sean Carrigan, Joe Power. Tommy Delaney 1-1, Cian Kelly 0-1, Dillon Cummins. Subs used Eoin Corr, John Bergin. Tom Boyle, Tom Murphy, Sean Byrne, Daniel Ryan, Bill Kealy. Then on Sunday, in a game brought forward by a day the boys faced a Graigue Ballycallan team bolstered by the return of three of their county minors. On a beautiful morning in Clara the two teams played out a pulsating draw, which was probably a fair result. Clara were also boosted by the return of a few players, and the team was reshu led again. The first half was an even a air, a er which GBC led 2-6 to 1-7. The Clara goal had come from Harry Boyle, who also added a point and looked dangerous in his newly found corner forward position. When GBC tacked on four of the first five second half points to move five clear, it looked to be slipping away from Clara. A Conor Hoyne free reduced the deficit but that was to be his last piece of action, as he incurred the wrath of the referee and picked up his second yellow card of the day. GBC got the next score again and Clara could have been forgiven for throwing in the towel. But that is not in the nature of these lads and five Rory Glynn points in a row, four of them from frees as he assumed that role following Conor’s dismissal, had the two sides level again with seven minutes to play. It was ding dong for that last seven minutes and for the six extra minutes that were played. Both sides missed chances, Clara having two

Je Tyrrell and Daniel McCormack who lined out with Kilkenny U15s Development Team

goal chances, but two more Rory Glynn frees o set the two that GBC scored and the sides were still deadlocked when the referee blew the long whistle. This was a spirited performance by the Clara lads and sends them into the long six week break with nine points from six games. The panel has really developed well over the last few weeks and there promises to be some very sti competition for places when the second round of matches resume in six weeks. Team - Cian Kelly, Tommy Delaney, Ben Crow, James Cody. Rory Glynn 0-8, 0-6f, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy. Philip Carrigan, Conor Hoyne 0-6, 0-5f. Ned Langton, David Barcoe, Luke Lawlor. Harry Boyle 1-1, Sean Carrigan 0-1, Joe Power 0-1. U13s WIN The Clara U13 team had a fine 2-21 to 4-7 win over Conahy in Clara on Friday evening. COUNTY Well done to John Murphy who was S and C coach for Kilkenny U20s as they pulled o a much needed epic extra time victory over Galway in the Leinster semi final in Tullamore on the May Bank Holiday Monday. The strong finish from Kilkenny was testament to the great work put in. Well done John. The previous day the Kilkenny seniors were somewhat unfortunate not to come away with a share of the spoils in Salthill as Galway won by the bare minimum. Commiserations to selector Conor Phelan on that result. Hard luck to Rory Glynn who was on the Kilkenny minor team that was beaten by Laois in the Leinster semi final on Saturday in Portlaoise. And finally well done to Davy Barcoe, Philip Carrigan and Joe Power who lined out for Kilkenny U14s over the weekend and to Conor Hoyne who was with the county U15 squad. LGFA Well done to the Clara U15 lady footballers who beat Thomastown in the Feile final recently and advance to represent Kilkenny. CAMOGIE The Clara senior camogie team picked up their first silverware under their new management in Borris recently. Mount Leinster Rangers hosted a very well organised 7 aside memorial tournament and the Clara girls easily beat St. Brigids of Ballycallan in the final. Well done girls! CLARA SENIOR SERVICES. Clara Cairde Club and Canon Nolan Centre will celebrate their 25th Birthday on Thursday 19th May in Clara Community Centre. Celebrations will commence with Mass at 12.00pm followed by presentation of certificates to Volunteers, lunch and dancing. All older persons from Clara Community welcome.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of club lotto (May 3rd). Numbers drawn were 4, 8, 23, 25 Bonus 12 Next weeks Jackpot €8,400 (May 10th). www.oloughlingaels. com/lotto Promotors Draw: 1. Eamon Tyrrell c/o Dinny. 2. Jim McMahon c/o Peter Dowling 3. Sinead Dowling c/o Peter Dowling. 4. John Skehan. 5. Madison Cody c/o Mary Cody 6. Tilly c/o Mick Nolan. 7. Brian Murphy. 8. Helen Morrissey c/o online. 9. Jackie Smith Ralph c/o online. 10. Anthony Cleere c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support COUNTY DEVELOPMENT Well done to u15 players Je Tyrrell and Daniel McCormack who lined out with Kilkenny U15s Development Team that beat Limerick on Saturday at Clara. Lovely Hurling SUPPORT CLUB TEAMS We’re in the thick of the action, please keep a close eye to the O’Loughlin Gaels pages and Co. Board updates for all team fixtures. Our players work hard, train hard and play hard and really enjoy the support they receive . Thanks and keep it going.

BOOK LAUNCH Art history was created in Freshford on Friday last when nine paintings by the Freshford-born nineteenth century artist Edmund Fitzpatrick were displayed together for the first time. The occasion was the launch of Ned Kennedy’s booklet on the life and work of the artist whose bicentenary occurs this year. Lord and Lady Bellew of Barmeath Castle in Co. Louth attended the event and Lord Bellew launched the book. A large number of members of the Fitzpatrick Clan of north Kilkenny attended the event. The book is on sale at O’Shea’s, Freshford and all Kilkenny bookshops. It costs €12 and the proceeds will go to Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre. A number of illustrations by Edmund Fitzpatrick from the Illustrated London News during the years 1848-1865 will be on permanent display at Ionad Lachtain for the rest of the year. Féile Lachtain 2022 continued on Saturday with a lecture delivered by Dublin-based author Derville Murphy on the life and work of another nineteenth century artist Margaret Allen who lived at Brookville, Lisdowney. She was the first female member of the Royal Hibernian Academy. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Margaret Barnaville of Urard Urlingford and all her family on the death last weekend of her husband Liam. Liam who was a wellknown builder by trade had been unwell for some time. Margaret is a prominent member of the North Kilkenny Wheelchair Association and both her and her family are widely known and respected in the area. Funeral mass took place on Monday morning in Gornahoe Church followed by burilal in Fenor cemetery. He is mourned by his wife Margaret, Daughters Michelle and Claire, Grandchildren, son in law, sister in law, brothers, sister and extended family. SPLIT THE POT The weekly split the pot draw took place on Wednesday last week and the lucky winner was Anthony Coatigan winning the sum of €159. Tickets are just €2 and the winner gets half of the takings. The draw is held each Wednesday and boxes and envelopes can be found in Kavanagh’s Bar, Mace, O’Shea’s corner shop, Girls& Guys Hairdressers, Oasis Creche, Freshford Creamery, Freshford Butchers and Prague House. This months proceeds are going to Freshford Community Café. The Committee would ask you to Please support this fund raiser. GAA NEWS A weekend which saw two good wins for both St.Lachtains junior hurling teams, with wins over Barrow Rangers and Young Irelands. The Junior B team got o to winning ways on Saturday evening when they achieved victory against Barrow Rangers in Freshford. Team. J Burke D Quinn L Kenned J Cantwell J Hickey P Donnelly C Donnelly C O’ Leary C Ra er C Power P Killeen C Leahy D Killeen P Campion J Whitty The Junior F team also achieved victory on Sunday evening when they took on Young Irelands in Gowran winning on a Score of 2.15 to 1.08 Team M Walsh D Quinn L Kennedy J Cantwell J Hickey M Nolan J Bowden C Hickey J Bergin D Killeen C power C Donnelly C Leahy M Durnan J Whitty Upcoming fixtures this week see the U15s take on Thomastown at 7.00pm on Wednesday in Thomastown. The U13s play Barrow Rangers at 7.30pm on Friday in Freshford Meanwhile the Intermediate face Glenmore at 12.30pm on Sunday next in Freshford COFFEE MORNING AT LOOP CAFE Work is continuing on Freshfords new Community Café at Buncrussia Street Freshford and the volunteers are making great progress. On Friday morning the 13th May at 10.30am at the Freshford Loop Café in aid of the Loop Café developments. Bakers and buyers are both very welcome. You are asked to please support this event. TRIP TO KNOCK On Saturday 4th June a bus leaves Kilkenny at Butts Green R95FH90 at 8am for the All Ireland Rosary Rally. If you are interested in attending please contact 086 8469011 to book your seat. SOCCER Freshford Town Junior side had their last game of the league for this season last weekend. Forced to field without a number of regulars they lost out 3-0 to river Rangers. The schoolboys section is also coming to an end. Congratulations to Freshford U10 side and their management who won the semi final of the Gerry O’Reilly plate on Saturday morning defeating Freebooters boys and now await their opponents in upcoming final. The training sessions for U8s continue each Saturday morning (weather permitting) are on from 12noon to 1pm at the Sportsfield at Woodview. All boys from 5-8 are most welcome to come along and join in TALKS Threecastles Community Hall hold the last talk of the Spring Series on this Wednesday 11th May in Threecastles Hall at 8pm. The talk will be given by renowned Archaeologist Coilin O’Driscoll and is titled “Discovering the archaeology of Threecastles.”All are welcome. Refreshfments will be served. COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford /Threecastles Community Alert group held their AGM recently. This was their first AGM since covid restrictions and the following o icers were elected for the forthcoming year; Chairman – John Bergin, Secretary – Jacinta Power, Treasurer –Mick Cormack PRO – Anna Morrissey Anyone wishing to join the text alert scheme or have a personal alarm installed should contact any of the above Committee. It is 10 euro per phone number. New members are always very welcome. The group wish to thank everyone who has joined for their continued support. Please contact any of the committee members to discuss, John Bergin 0862592535, Jacinta Power 0877658672, Mick Cormack 0863535293 or Anna Morrissey 0858277965. GAA St.Lachtains Club were well represented on the Kilkenny Senior Hurling side on Sunday last when they were narrowly defeated by Galway in round 3 of the Leinster Championship round robin. James Maher started at midfield with Darren Brennan on the bench as sub keeper.Congrats also to Aidan Tallis and Alan Hickey who were on the winning Kilkenny U20 side on Monday when they made a great comeback in extra time to defeat Galway in the Leinster semi final. Aidan was in goal for the Kilkenny side while Alan was the sub keeper. Another local man David Brennan was on the management side. On this Wednesday evening the U15 hurlers take on Tullogher at Pairc Lachtains. The U13s take on Naomh Eoin on Friday evening at 7.30pm in Freshford. The Junior B hurlers face Barrow Rangers in Freshford on Saturday evening at 7.00pm. While the Junior F are out against Young Irelands in Gowran on Sunday evening at 7.00pm. PARISH NEWS Attendance at mass are now back to full capacity. Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla Church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. NOTICES The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish O ice. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be le in or emailed to the Parish O ice by 11am on Thursdays. Parish o ice hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish O ice or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish o ice on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Lourdes set o on Monday 9th May and will return today 13th May 2022 . Staying at 4 star Hotel Astrid the trip is accompanied by spiritual director with a full religious programme, services of a Marian pilgrimage guide, mass daily and spiritual activities MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development O icer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life di icult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342. If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808. SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie. DUNNAMAGGIN Local Lotto Results for May 2nd 2022 Winning Numbers : 6, 26, 32. No Winner. Winners for the Draw for 5 x € 30 Orla Buckley ( Olive Buckley ), K. Peters ( Jimmy Mccormack ), Carmel Ryan ( Ellen Gorey ),Joan Kickham ( Niamh O Donovan ),Kayla Hickey ( Anne Hickey ). Jackpot for May 9th € 1,900. Venue Townsend’s Dunnamaggin at 9pm All Welcome. DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FOOTHBALL CLUB FIRST ROUND WIN FOR MINORS The first outing for our minors was this week against Railyard. It was an excellent performance despite slippery conditions making the game hard for both teams. We had no subs on the day and their work rate was fantastic knowing they had to keep going. MARKETS AT MADGES GARDEN Dates for your diary the last Sunday of every month from May until October inclusive and then our fourth annual Christmas Market on December 4th - May 29th – Flower Theme: June 26th– Mid Summer Theme: July 31st– Fairy Village Theme (celebrating 1 year of Slí na nAingeal): August 28th – Vintage Theme (Best Dressed Competition – A ernoon Tea Tent): Sept 25th – Harvest Theme (Scarecrow Competition – Apple Pressing): Oct 30th – Halloween Theme (Get your scare on!): Dec 4th- 4th Annual Christmas Market with Santa. At Every Market Pop Up Café – Eamo’s BBQ – Food & Cra Stalls – Competitions – Ra les – FUN for all the FAMILY A WAY WITH WORDS Following a series of workshops with author Debbie Thomas, Windgap Community Development, with support/funding from Kilkenny County Council Arts O ice and Poetry Ireland, have developed a Poetry Trail with poems by older and younger members of the community, which will remain in place along the Village Loop Walk throughout the coming summer. Why not take a spin to Windgap to check out their Poetry Trail and treat yourself to some down time in their Lakeside Tea Rooms (pre-booking advised) DROICHEAD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Would you like to learn basic life support skills? Droichead Family Resource Centre are running a Heartsaver AED Course on the 10th of June from 9.30am-12.30pm. Participants will learn how to use an Automated External Defibrillator and CPR. The Heartsaver AED Course costs €10 per person and each participant will receive an Irish Heart Foundation Heartsaver AED certificate. To book a place or for more information please contact Carmel on (083) 2098069 or email familysupport@ droicheadfrc.ie. The Marie Keating Mobile Information Unit will be in Droichead Family Resource Centre on Thursday 19th May from 11 am- 3pm. This is a free information service available for men and women. Specialist’s nurses will be available to provide information on common cancers a ecting men and women in a private space in the unit. No appointment necessary and all are welcome. There will be refreshments available on the day. Droichead Family Resource Centre has a Fully Funded Part Time Course starting in September 2022 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-12.30pm. If you are interested in Healthcare and would like a QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support Qualification, contact Back to Education Initiative on (056) 7701020 or email btei@kkadulted.ie for more information. Want to know what is happening at Droichead Family Resource Centre? Text “what’s on “to (085) 8564950 or (083) 2098069 to be added to our What’s on at Droichead FRC WhatsApp Group. You can also follow Droichead FRC on Facebook or Instagram or give us a call on (056) 7755660 to keep up to date with all the services, supports and community groups available at Droichead GO PURPLE DAY Our sincerest thanks to all that baked and donated to our co ee morning for Go Purple Day, a joint initiative between an Garda Siochana and domestic abuse services nationwide, to raise awareness about domestic abuse and support local services. We raised €127.00 for Amber Women’s Refuge in Kilkenny. FREE WORKSHOP Free workshop on circular economy opportunities – save the date!The Rediscovery Centre, the National Centre for Circular Economy in Dublin is inviting you to join a free workshop on circular economy opportunities which will take place at the Butlers Gallery in Kilkenny on 11th May from 11am. You will have an opportunity to hear about new circular business areas or models that may support your work as well as meet with them one to one to explore any ideas you may already have in this area. For queries on how to register contact claire@rediscoverycentre.ie or phone 01 8933801. DUSK BAT WALK OPW Kilkenny Castle, in partnership with Bat Conservation Ireland, invite you to join them and explore the hidden world of Kilkenny Castle Park for their Dusk Bat Walk for adults on Monday 16th May from 9pm– 10.30pm. In the company of Dr Tina Augheny, wander the grounds with bat detectors to eavesdrop on the wonderful hunting calls that bats make as they fly, with numerous bat species known to hunt along the River Nore in Kilkenny City. Warm clothing and sturdy footwear recommended plus a small torch. Booking is required. To register contact kilkennycastleinfo@opw.ie NATIONAL VOLUNTEERING WEEK National Volunteering Week takes place from the 16th to the 21st of May we will be hosting events in Kilkenny Volunteer Centre. Go to www.volunteerkilkenny.ie to see the programme of events taking place. KILKENNY AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY GATHERINGS Kilkenny Age Friendly Older Peoples Council would like to hear from you. It is important that we hear the voice of all older people throughout the county and to ensure that we are doing so we are holding a number of Age Friendly Community Gatherings where we invite older people to come along and let us know what they see as the issues that are relevant and important to them. These Community Gatherings will be run at the following locations and dates: Ferrybank Community Centre. 20th May 2022.Castlecomer Community Hall. 15th June 2022. Mullinavat Community Centre. 30th June 2022. Graiguenamanagh Hub. July 2022 tbc. Please come along and bring some friends. It will start with Registration Tea/Co ee at 9.15 and finishing at 12.30/1pm. If you would like further information please email agefriendlycounty@gmail.com or text 0876210589. CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results May 5th Nos: 18–25- 20– 7 Jackpot: €9,550– not won Draw Prizes – €50: CBH Beirne c/o Tom Beirne . €25 each Liz Miller c/o Online €25 each Ritchie Kearns c/o Fiona Morrissey €25 each John Kelly c/o Online Co op draw ticket Rebecca Walsh c/o Online Promotors prize Gina Gaule New weeks draw €9,700 11th of May SUMMER CAMP 2022 Save the date for our hugely popular Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club Multi Activity Summer Camp.Week 1 - July 18th - 22nd. Week 2 - August 15th - 19th. Booking System Launching Shortly through Clubzap KILKENNY REPRESENTATIVES Well done Kilkenny Camogie and to the 3 Boro girls Asha, Ciara and Captain Aoife. The Leinster Final is fixed for Saturday in O’ Moore Park. Best of luck to Harry, Timmy, Niall and Padraic who are part of the Kilkenny U20 panel who played Wexford on Monday evening. SENIOR FOOTHBALL Hard luck to our Senior Footballers who lost in the championship to a strong Mullinavat team on Saturday evening in Danesfort. This game doubled up as a league final decider. Our lads had a great season to date and fell short to a good Mullinavat team. JUNIOR HURLING Our Junior D hurlers had a great win versus Thomastown on a sunny Sunday morning in Palmerstown. Our Junior F hurlers had a great win versus Kilmacow on Sunday evening in Palmerstown. MINOR HURLING Hard luck to Kilkenny who were defeated by Laois on Saturday in the Lenister Semi Final. Dicksboro had Captain Tom McPhilips, Evan Murphy and Mikey Stynes as part of the panel. U15 FOOTBALL Dicksboro U15 team defeated John Lockes and Naomh Brid on Wednesday and Thursday evening in James Park.

U13 HURLING Dicksboro U13 B team had a great game on Sunday morning against Tullogher Rosbercon. Our lads were unlucky to lose out. CLUB REGISTERATION Many thanks to all those who have registered to date. The closing date for registration this year of March 31st has passed, all members must be registered now to take to the field. Registration is available through the membership option on ClubZap and a phased payment option is available. Any members who are having di iculty paying online can contact a member from the executive to arrange a cash payment facility. Many thanks. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE REOPEN Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is reopened Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners cards table. We, are o ering a particular welcome to all of our senior citizens members, it’s been a di icult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista co ee and all the usuals CALLAN GOLF CLUB CLUB CAPTAIN’S PRIZE TO THE LADIES The first of the major days 2022 was held on Monday May 2nd when Captain John Ryan hosted his prize for the ladies. The course in great condition and the lovely May sunshine made for a very enjoyable day for all participants. Keeping it in the community Captain John who hails from Dunamaggin was very happy to present his Perpetual Trophy and winning prize to Joan Phelan who also comes from the same lovely village. There was a welcoming atmosphere in the club house where the restaurant is under new management and serving great food and was enjoyed by all on the day. RESULTS Winner Joan Phelan 38pts. 2nd Anne Wemyss 36pts. Best Gross Rita O’Neill 3rd Noelle O’Driscoll 35pts. 4th Lady Captain Anne Croke 33pts5th Ann Needham 33pts Front 9 Rose Brophy 21pts. Back 9 Bernie Lyons 18 pts. Best 36+ Carmel O’Sullivan 29pts Junior Prize Winner Anna O’Brien 9|HOLE 1st Ena Heron 16pts c/b. 2nd Marie Costello 16pts TUESDAY 3RD 18 HOLE S/F 1st Ena Kennedy 34pts. 2nd Ann Needham 34pts 9 HOLE 1st Marie Costello. 2nd Brid Carpendale SENIOR LADIES 12 HOLE THURSDAY 5TH MAY 1st Mary D Grace 29pts. 2nd Ann Needham 28pts. 3rd Ann Phelan 25pts 4th Caroline Healy 24pts 5th Mary Kennnedy 24pts

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster GAA Hurling Senior Championship

Saturday May 14th Parnell Park, 7pm

KILKENNY will look to bounce back from their narrow defeat to Galway, when they take on Dublin in Parnell Park tomorrow evening (throw-in 7pm). e race to be crowned Leinster champions is wide open, but both e Cats along with Henry’s tribesmen and tomorrow’s opponents Dublin, will be fancying their chances of getting their hands on the Bob O’Keefe Cup on June 4th.

Mattie Kenny’s super blues are unbeaten in Leinster so far this season, and will go into tomorrow’s game full of con dence against their more illustrious opposition. Of their three games to date, the Metropolitans one point win in Chadwicks Wexford Park is the result that caught the eye of many.

While Dublin is the only side in Leinster with a 100% record, they do have a tendency to concede a high number of scores to their opponents. Currently they have a scoring di erence of just +11, the lowest of the top four sides on the table. In their championship games this season, they have shipped 3-54, while registering 1-71 in games against Laois, Wexford and their opponents, Westmeath.

During the National League, Kenny’s charges su ered a huge defeat at the hands of tomorrow’s visitors. When the sides met at Parnell Park in early March, Dublin where also unbeaten at that stage of the competition. Brian Cody’s men hit 2-23 in an emphatic 13-point victory and will be looking for a repeat performance and result in the Capital on Saturday evening.

Dublin come into this game on the back of their most comprehensive championship win, an 8-point win over the Lake County in Mullingar. Like in all their provincial matches to date, Na Fianna’s Donal Burke has hit double gures to help his team to victory, on this occasion, 11 points, seven of which came from frees. Burke has contributed over 35 of his teams 71 points in Leinster this season, and Kilkenny will need to bear this in mind when defending tomorrow evening.

Kilmacud duo, Fergal Whitely and Ronan Hayes have been lively in the full-forward line and along with Ballyboden St Enda’s Aidan Mellet will look to test the Cats defensive unit. Just behind this trio, we are likely to nd Rian McBride and the very talented Danny Sutcli e keeping placed ball specialist Burke company.

In the engine room, Mattie Kenny is likely to eld Conor Burke and Lucan’s Chris Crummey, hoping that this duo will at least break even against their Noreside counterparts. e middle third could well be swamped with many bodies throughout the 70-odd minutes of action. St Vincents Rian McBride may drift deeper than his No.11 jersey would suggest.

For the Dubs to stand any chance of securing a home victory, they will look to their captain, Eoghan O’Donnell and his deputy, Cian O’Callaghan to set the tone and provide the necessary leadership at the back, to allow those further forward to ply their trade. Whitehall Colmcille’s O’Donnell is often spoken about in glowing terms, a Rolls Royce of a full-back, almost in the same bracket as his opposite number, Huw Lawlor. Injury has meant that the Dublin No.3 has had somewhat of a stop-start season, but there is no doubt that a fully- t and ying Eoghan O’Donnell strengthens Mattie Kenny’s hand no end.

Cuala’s Sean Brennan appears to have cemented his place between the sticks, ahead of veteran Alan Nolan. e Dublin goalkeeper will be expecting a fairly busy evening in Parnell Park, and will need to be on top form against a Kilkenny team that has raised ten green ags in their championship campaign so far this season.

Now that the dust has settled on the Salthill showdown, Brian Cody will look to mastermind his side to victory in the Capital tomorrow. Henry & Co are one point better o in the table, while Dublin are two ahead of the Cats. With the top two sides facing-o for the provincial honours, Cody will be keen to secure maximum points from the two xtures remaining, which could potentially mean She in vs Cody part 2.

It will be interesting to see if the James Stephens club man starts TJ Reid against the Dubs. e legendary Reid was hauled ashore at halftime in the defeat to Galway, and to be honest, didn’t

Mattie Kenny’s hand no end.

Cuala’s Sean Brennan appears to have cemented his place between the sticks, ahead of veteran Alan Nolan. e be expecting a fairly busy and will need to be on top championship campaign will look to mastermind his side to victory in the Capital tomorrow. Henry & Co are one point better Dublin are two ahead of the provincial honours, secure maximum points remaining, which could potentially mean She in

It will be interesting to see if the James Stephens club man starts TJ Reid against the Dubs. e Galway, and to be honest, didn’t

A rocky road to Dublin

Cats look to end Dub’s unbeaten run

All pix: Danny Lahart

Eoin Cody can help drive the Cats on

Brian Cody - hoping to get back to winning ways

Eoin Murphy and Paddy Deegan will look to tighten up at the back look himself in the opening 35 minutes. Let’s not forget that the Shamrocks man has been nursing an injury since last season’s Kilkenny

County Final, hence his absence from the black and amber until recently.

TJ’s replacement during the league has been Glenmore’s Alan Murphy. Alan has been outstanding for the county when called upon, and performed really well when called upon in Salthill last time out. His accuracy from the placed ball and his no-nonsense style means he is de nitely an option, should the manager decide to manage TJ’s workload tomorrow.

Reid’s club mate, Eoin Cody has been in inspirational form since returning to county action in 2022. As mentioned in our Galway match review, Cody went through a number of markers in the west, and looked a constant threat throughout proceedings. His one-handed nish to goal against Galway, along with his pass to set up GraigueBallycallan’s Billy Ryan were of the highest order. e twicecrowned Young Hurler of the Year will hope to continue this form in Parnell Park and help bring the Dubs 100% record to an end.

During the sides league meeting in March, Walter Walsh hit 1-3 and was in sparkling form. e big Tullogher-Rosbercon man has continued that form in the subsequent games, and has the skill set to be a prove a very useful weapon in the Capital tomorrow evening. Walter’s ability to dominate aerial exchanges and break the defensive line will be crucial against the Dubs. We shouldn’t forget Walter’s passing ability either. He was key in setting up Eoin Cody’s goal in Salthill last time out.

Another Kilkenny man to shine in the league encounter with Mattie Kenny’s men was Padraig Walsh. e Tullaroan man hit 0-4 in a wonderful

exhibition of shooting, and 35 minutes. Let’s not forget like Walter, has been in ne form for the county in 2022. Padraig will be instrumental in knitting his side’s attacking

County Final, hence his play together for the remainder absence from the black and of the championship. amber until recently. Last year’s captain,

TJ’s replacement during the Adrian Mullen has put the league has been Glenmore’s disappointment of the AllAlan Murphy. Alan has Ireland Club Final defeat to been outstanding for the Ballygunner behind him and county when called upon, put in some good shifts in the and performed really well stripes since he came back when called upon in Salthill into the panel. I always say it, last time out. His accuracy but Mullen’s ability to win his from the placed ball and his own ball and get stuck in will no-nonsense style means be of real bene t to Kilkenny he is de nitely an option, as we get deeper into the should the manager decide championship. to manage TJ’s workload In defence, the 2 Mikey’s, tomorrow. Butler & Carey have taken

Reid’s club mate, Eoin Cody to inter-county hurling like has been in inspirational form ducks to water, and will no since returning to county doubt look to continue their action in 2022. As mentioned development against the in our Galway match review, Dubs. For my money, 4 of Cody went through a number the 6 defensive spots are of markers in the west, and almost nailed on. e abovelooked a constant threat mentioned Mikey’s, Huw throughout proceedings. His Lawlor and Paddy Deegan one-handed nish to goal are the foundation of the Cats against Galway, along with rearguard. his pass to set up Graigue- e last line of defence for Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan were of Kilkenny will no doubt see Allthe highest order. e twice- Star keeper Eoin Murphy retain crowned Young Hurler of the the number one jersey. Eoin Year will hope to continue this had an ‘up and down’ day at form in Parnell Park and help the o ce against Galway, but I bring the Dubs 100% record to for one wouldn’t contemplate an end. replacing the Glenmore man

During the sides league between the posts. e elder meeting in March, Walter of the Murphy brothers has Walsh hit 1-3 and was in all the tools needed to be a sparkling form. e big modern-day netminder. Tullogher-Rosbercon man Tomorrow’s game could be has continued that form in the perfect opportunity to see the subsequent games, and David Blanch eld in from the has the skill set to be a prove start. e Bennettsbridge man a very useful weapon in the has fond memories Parnell Capital tomorrow evening. Park and the Dubs, as the Walter’s ability to dominate rangy defender notched 3 ne aerial exchanges and break points from play during the the defensive line will be league encounter. crucial against the Dubs. We Whatever XV take to the Parnell Park turf, Brian Cody will demand that those entrusted will put in a performance that will secure a vital victory tomorrow night and set up a winner takes-all clash against the Yellowbellies next weekend at UPMC Nowlan Park.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

We need to beat the Dubs, plain and simple. Kilkenny Gaels not only demand, but expect a provincial final erth in earl une. his uest starts tomorrow evening in the capital.

I fully expect to see a positive reaction from Brian od s charges when referee homas alsh throws the ball in at Parnell Park. No team can afford to spend time lic ing their wounds in championship hurling. heir appears to e plent of hunger and desire within this il enn panel, and its now time to unleash this and la down another mar er in the attle to end the Liam McCarthy drought. long with hunger and desire, do not underestimate the le el of talent within the s uad. e ha e plent of goals in the panel too. he men in lac and am er have notched 10 majors in Leinster to date and are the provinces top scorers so far. attie enn s men will e eager to maintain their record in einster this season, ut tomorrow s opposition are a different animal to that that they have faced so far. Donal Burke’s accuracy from the placed all will again e the lue s main scoring threat, but in Hayes, McBride and Sutcliffe, to name by three, Dublin has many top-level hurlers.

Let’s take care of business at Parnell Park, then loo forward to neigh our s e ford roc ing up to owlan ar , when od willing we will secure a Leinster Final berth.

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

O’Neills.com Leinster GAA U20 Hurling Championship Final

Netwatch Cullen Park, Monday 9th May Kilkenny 1-13 Wexford 0-15

With the clock having reached 64 minutes, a sideline cut was sent in and around the house by Wexford centre–back Cian Molloy. e ball was won and passed to Jack Redmond, who appeared to be in acres of space. Redmond took the pass and as the Kilkenny defence rushed to him, he struck what was surely to be the equalising point and send the game into extra-time. Somehow the Rathnure St. Anne’s forward shot shave the right-hand post and went behind and wide.

Dublin whistler, Chris Mooney then brought proceedings to a close. Kilkenny were provincial champions at this grade for the 27th time. And breath.

It was a pulsating nish at Netwatch Cullen Park, as those in attendance on an unusually wet and windy May evening were treated to a swashbuckling encounter that ebbed and owed and reached a frantic conclusion, thanks in no small way to a battling Wexford side.

Derek Lyng’s side got o to a fast start, when they were awarded a free for a grab on captain Padraic Moylan’s helmet seconds after the throw-in. Galmoy’s Billy Drennan made no mistake from the placed ball as the Cats drew rst blood.

With 5 minutes on the clock, mid elder Denis Walsh took a fantastic catch and split the posts with a lovely score. Less than a minute later, some great harrying by the Kilkenny attack saw Timmy Cli ord take possession out on the right-hand side. e talented Dicksboro player cut inside and pointed from a tight angle with ease to give his team an early 3-point lead.

Some holding by the Wexford defence was spotted by referee Mooney, and Billy Drennan punished the indiscretion by popping over the free. Keith Rossiter’s side looked nervous and were making lots of unforced errors. ey badly needed a score and corner-forward Cian Byrne obliged in the 11th minute from the placed ball. e game then got a little scrappy, especially in the middle third. is lull was broken in the 16th minute when Dunnamaggin forward Andy Hickey ri ed over a stunning point on almost half-way, out on the left ank. A Timmy Cli ord run was then halted by a hurl in the face from St. Martin’s wing-back, Joe Barrett, and the deadly Billy Drennan continued his excellent free-taking by pointing from the resulting free. e Kilkenny players were hunting in packs and seeking turnovers, and this approach was rewarded when they bottled up a Yellowbellies player and took possession. e ball was moved quickly to Denis Walsh whose shot sailed over the black spot. e young Cats now led 0-7 to 0-1 with almost 20 minutes played.

Wexford then broke up a Kilkenny attack and moved the ball to the on-running Cian Molloy. e Naomh Eanna man powered forward before striking a sublime e ort from distance that got the Model County supporters excited. Wexford then added two free’s to their total, courtesy of St. Mogue’s Cian Byrne, after the Cats were harshly blown up for infringements. e gap was now reduced to 3 points as referee Chris Mooney blew for half-time with the score board reading Kilkenny 0-7, Wexford 0-4.

Kilkenny were good value for their lead, but given their dominance over the rst 20 minutes, they will probably feel that they should have had a more handsome advantage on the short whistle. Conditions underfoot were tricky and had caught several players out throughout the opening period. Worryingly for Cats boss Derek Lyng would have been the fact that his side failed to register a score from the 19th minute of the rst half. However, Wexford can take some credit for this statistic, as their defence certainly tightened up during that period of the game. e Noresiders made a couple of changes during the interval, with Ian Byrne and Jack Doyle replacing Peter McDonald and Ted Dunne, both of whom struggled to make any impact in the rst half. e rst score of the second half came from Wexford, a well taken point from No.14 Jack Redmond. Windgap’s Jack Doyle was then halted illegally as he tried to make headway, and the deadly Drennan duly slotted over the free awarded. Another well engineered turnover saw Denis Walsh notch his 3rd point of the day to cement the in uence that he was having all over the Carlow turf.

Dunnamaggin’s Walsh then

excellent free-taking

27 and co unting!!!

Cats hang on to claim Leinster title Carlow cracker

Ian Byrne was influential from the bench

All pix: Danny Lahart