Kilkenny Observer 15th August 2025

So, the books stop here

In Graiguenamanagh, for its 22nd annual literary festival

Preparations are underway in the picturesque town of Graiguenamanagh for the popular Town of Books festival, which has become a literary haven for book lovers and a cultural highlight for locals and visitors alike.

This year’s festival, marking the 22nd, will take place from Friday, August 22 to August 24. Blacknight will once again take the lead as the main sponsor.

In recent years, the committee has welcomed guests from all over the world and the festival continues to grow from strength to strength as the three-day celebration attracts booksellers, avid readers, collectors, artists, and enthusiasts from across Ireland and beyond.

This year’s programme includes the ever-popular food and craft market at Abbey Hall, live music, poetry

Coming soon! Baby No.2 for Niamh & TJ

Kilkenny hurling star TJ Reid and his wife, internet personality and Limerick woman Niamh de Brún, are expecting their second child.

The couple made the announcement through a video posted on social media in which they, accompanied by their daughter, Harper, painted the words “Baby Due 2025” on a plain white wall.

“Pre-season is well and truly under way for Harper in her new role as big sister,” wrote the couple on Instagram. “We feel so grateful to be growing our family.”

The couple married at a lavish wedding at Adare Manor in November of 2021.

readings, face painting, and a variety of other familyfriendly activities. The festivities begin with the official launch and drinks reception at 7 pm on Friday, with a special event at 8pm featuring local TV personality, Edward Hayden, in conversation with two distinguished guests, Pat Marry and Beau Donelly.

Pat Marry was instrumental in solving dozens of seri-

ous crimes, including many murders, but as a newlyqualified Garda in 1985, Marry had no idea how to become a detective. He quickly realised he would have to learn on the job – to step forward and prove he had what it took. Since his retirement in 2018, Marry went from investigating Ireland’s most high-profile cases to becoming a best-selling author.

Beau Donelly is an awardwinning investigative journalist and co-author of the best-selling book The Woman Who Fooled the World, the true story behind Netflix’s Apple Cider Vinegar.

A new venue on this year’s itinerary is Mick Doyle’s pub in Abbey Lane, Cushendale Woollen Mills will present a beautiful exhibition, A Vintage Yarn: Stories of Irish Fashion and Design. Miriam

Yacht death woman was divorcing

New York City designer Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra was found dead on a Montauk boat just months after finalising a divorce from her husband, according to court documents.

The 33-year-old Carlowborn and reared woman –who moved to the US in 2015 – was in the middle of uncontested, or mutually agreedupon, divorce proceedings with husband Sam Ryan, as recently as April, according to documnets filed at the

New York County Supreme Court.

The filings indicate the couple’s marriage ended just months before Ms NolanO’Slatarra was found dead on a boat docked at the upscale Montauk Yacht Club around midnight on Tuesday, August 4 — with a naked man seen belligerently begging bystanders to help her. In another recent legal bout, Ms Nolan and Dylan Grace, who co-owned East x East swimwear, were sued

in 2022 by Out East Accessories, a Manhattan luxury eyeglass outlet, according to a lawsuit.

The pair was accused of stealing $34,000 from a company bank account, as well as the entire eyewear inventory, the complaint alleged.

The suit also claimed the duo locked the owners out of their bank account, emails and social media accounts by changing the password. The lawsuit was resolved.

Telling it like it is. And with no

Suffolk County police said there was no evidence of violence towards Ms Nolan O’Slatarra, but have not ruled out foul play.

The local police department has not so far released details of the department’s investigation.

It is understood, the story unfolded around midnight, when two bystanders were awakened by screaming.

Ther saw the alleged owner of the boat Ripple dashing down the dock in a panic.

“We were sound asleep,” the eyewitness, who asked not to be identified, told The New York Post. “We heard someone shouting, stuff bouncing off the side of the boat. He threw sunscreen at our boat trying to wake us up,” he said. “He was naked, screaming, ‘Do something’!”

Police said the bystanders tried to resuscitate the popular designer before first responders arrived but it was too late and Nolan-O’Slatarra was pronounced dead.

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archive includes couture by Irene Gilbert, Ib Jorgensen, Mary O’Donnell, and Pat Crowley. With support from Creative Kilkenny, the Town of Books Festival will also host 70 Plein Air artists this year, including many of Ireland’s top painters.

Trump, Putin focus on war

The summit meeting between US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin will focus today (Friday, August 15) on ending Putin’s war in Ukraine, with Alaska’s awesome beauty and vulnerabilities as its backdrop. The two world leaders will meet at Joint Base ElmendorfRichardson, the post that crowns Anchorage to its south. Cold, dark and snowy in the w inter, the base gets near round-the-clock sun at summer’s peak.

Young being left behind

The Employment and Recruitment Federation is calling for a renewed focus on school-leaver pathways and early-career opportunities as jobs data shows growing disconnect. Despite Ireland reaching a record 2.81 million people in employment and maintaining a low 4.0% unemployment rate, the latest Labour Market Monitor from the Employment and Recruitment Federation (ERF) reveals a persistent and growing problem which is young people are being left behind.

The youth unemployment rate rose to 10.7% in June, an 8.5% increase since the same ime last year

Cushen

Naomi Fitzgibbon

Vintage Finds

premier curator

vintage fashion. Naomi’s

Our eight great to ate at Blas food final

The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, The Irish Food Awards 2025, have been announced, with eight exceptional producers from Co. Kilkenny making it through to the final stage of Ireland’s most prestigious food awards.

The countdown is now officially on for the return to Dingle this autumn, where the very best of Irish food and drink will be celebrated from Thursday October 2 to Sunday 5th, with the Blas Village, Showcase, Eat Ireland In A Day Market and the awards themselves all running on Friday, October 3.

Now in its 18th year, Blas na hÉireann continues to grow, with more than 3,000 entries submitted from across the island, and a record number of new producers taking part. The 2025 awards also see the biggest expansion in categories, now totalling 190, including significant growth in fast-evolving areas such as alcoholic drinks and their non-alcoholic alternatives.

The judging, which took place over May, June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of expert judges, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs, and industry leaders. Only the top entries-

from each category make it to the finalist stage, which is a huge achievement in itself. The finalists shortlisted from Co. Kilkenny across a wide range of categories are Arán Bakery & Bistro, Callan Bacon, Fairhouse Supermarket Ltd T/A McCarthy’s SuperValu, Highbank Orchard, Lekker food collection, Mileeven, Outdoors Herbalist and Sofina Callan.

“We are thrilled that Kilkenny has eight finalist producers in the Blas na hÉireann awards this year, highlighting the incredible variety of locally produced food and drink available in our county.” said John Mulcahy, Business Advisor at LEO Kilkenny. “Kilkenny County Council Local Enterprise Office is dedicated to fostering growth in the food

sector, supporting our producers as they start, expand, and reach new markets. The Blas na hÉireann awards are a prestigious celebration of excellence for these food businesses.”

“It’s been an exciting year for the Blas na hÉireann awards,” says Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford. “That’s not just in terms of the ever-growing number

of entries, but in the incredible standard of produce from both long-standing producers and impressive newcomers. We’ve also seen huge innovation across all categories, which reflects the evolving landscape of Irish food and drink. For us, these awards are about championing the producers, and giving them the spotlight they deserve in Dingle each

October. We can’t wait to welcome them.” Making it as a finalist is no small achievement. The producers shortlisted really do represent the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink. The Blas na hÉireann awards weekend in Dingle is a celebration of great food, and of the people, passion and place that make that Irish food so special.

Kilkenny foodies at the announcement of those short-listed for the Blas final

Don’t Look Back In Anger, Liam...Noel’s a winner!

As Oasis prepare to make their long-awaited return to Irish shores, the National Lottery has taken a deep dive into historic winner’s data – and as turns out, the Gallagher rivalry extends right into the jackpot stakes. Data doesn’t lie and, in this race, the winner is… Noel! So what do we know?

Since 1988, players named Noel have appeared as winners of high-tier prizes, 18% more often that those named Liam! Meaning the Noel’s come out on top ahead of the Liam’s in this Gallagher rivalry.

And if you happen to be from Mayo, like Peggy Gallagher, mother to Noel and Liam,

Lidl is among 10 outlets closed over food hygiene

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has reported that 10 Closure Orders and two Prohibition Orders were served on food businesses during the month of July for breaches of food safety legislation, pursuant to the FSAI Act, 1998 and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020.

Four Closure Orders were served under the FSAI Act, 1998 on:

• Lidl Sallynoggin Road, Glenageary, Co. Dublin.

• Creed’s Foodstore Burncourt Cahir, Co. Tipperary

• Brandon Hotel (Closed areas: All kitchen areas including dry goods store, wash up areas, staff canteen, restaurant and stills area.) Prince’s Street, Tralee, Co.  Kerry

• Emerald Park (Closed area: The storage unit located to the rear of “coffee dock” in Emerald Park)  Kilbrew Ashbourne, Co. Meath.

Six Closure Orders were served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020 on:

• Londis Athboy (Closed areas: the deli/food preparation area and ice cream service area) Connaught Street, Athboy, Co. Meath

• KRS Catering Stall (Closed activity: the service of all foods prepared off-site and transported to the venue. Closure does not apply to the sale/ service of beverages and foods prepared on-site) Powerstown Park Racecourse, Clonmel, Co.  Tipperary

• Tim Nessa 2A John’s Street, Co. Limerick

• Hidden Dojo Asian Street food  47A Phibsborough Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.

• Wakami Sushi & Asian  47A Phibsborough Road, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.

• Costa Coffee 1 Dawson Street, Dublin 2

One Prohibition Order was

you’re certainly not looking back in anger. The county has produced a whopping 209 National Lottery winners since its inception in 1988 – giving a new meaning to “west is best”!

With the band back together, and the nation gearing up for a nostalgia-fuelled singalong, the National Lottery is tipping

its hat to all past winners, especially the Noels, Liams, and indeed victorious Mayo locals.

Darragh O’Dwyer, National Lottery spokesperson, said: “Looking at historic data, we’ve seen more high tier wins associated with the name Noel than Liam, an interesting coincidence that adds a fun

twist to the excitement around the band’s reunion. Whether you’re a Noel, a Liam, or from Mayo like the Gallaghers themselves, it’s always fascinating to see the stories behind our winners.”

Nearly 30% in every €1 spent on National Lottery games goes back to good causes in the areas of sport, youth, health, welfare, education, arts, heritage and the Irish Language. In total, more than €6.5 Billion has been raised for good causes since the National Lottery was established 37 years ago. In 2024 alone, €239.3 Million was raised for local Good Causes in communities across Ireland.

served under the FSAI Act, 1998 on Ballymaguire Foods Unlimited Company, Rathmooney, Lusk,Co. Dublin.

One Prohibition Order was served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020 on Timothy Onwuegbusi, 2A John’s Street, Limerick and Emeka Ikebudu, 2A John’s Street, Limerick.

Some of the reasons for the Enforcement Orders in July include: rat droppings found in a dishwasher room and food store and noted at a main customer entrance; inadequate means to wash hands preventing frequent handwashing in a kitchen; owners and staff not wearing clean protective clothing during food preparation; dead beetles observed in the bottom of a container of packaged food displayed for sale; various foods such as meat and poultry based curries and yoghurt and vegetable based condiments being kept at unsafe temperatures; rat droppings found in a storage unit which was used to store food and food contact materials such as reusable cups, lids and straws; and numerous rodent droppings noted on high and low level shelving where food was stored.

Mr Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, said:

“Recent foodborne incidents serve as a stark reminder of the need for food businesses to maintain the highest food safety standards. Consumers are entitled to expect that the food they purchase is safe, and food businesses have a clear legal and moral responsibility to ensure that it is.

“Every food business must take its responsibility to comply with food safety law seriously. The FSAI can provide support and advice to food businesses. However, where food businesses do not comply with their obligations, we will take action.”

The South East fight against cancer

The HSE has published the 2023 - 2024 Annual Report for UHW/ South East Cancer Services, highlighting the continued focus on providing safe, high-quality care to patients in Carlow/ Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford, and South Tipperary.

UHW is one of eight cancer centres in the HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP). With UHW as the service’s hub, satellite cancer services are provided in Wexford General Hospital, St Luke’s General Hospital Carlow/ Kilkenny, Tipperary University Hospital with radiation oncology services provided by the Radiation Oncology Centre in UPMC Whitfield Hospital, Waterford.

As the designated cancer

centre for the South East, UHW provides an extensive range of services, which spans all cancer specialities and includes early detection, diagnostics, treatment and survivorship.

Launching the report, Mr. John Keane, Consultant Urologist and Chairperson/ Cancer Governance Lead at UHW, detailed key achievements, challenges and strategic priorities pertinent to each cancer speciality. “On behalf of the Cancer Governance Group, I extend my gratitude for the dedication, compassion and expertise of all staff and patients, who deal with cancer daily. It’s through our collaborative efforts that we make real impact in the fight against cancer.”

The goal of the UHW

cancer governance group is to provide patients with timely access to quality and safe cancer services provided within the available resources. Mr Keane also highlighted the enormous volume of cancer related activity during 2023 and 2024 and acknowledged the significant dedication, commitment and leadership by all staff involved in the cancer services.

Ms. Orla Kavanagh, Director of Nursing and Integration/Cancer Services Management Lead UHW, spoke about the NCCP investment and future priorities for the South East cancer centre and recognised the contribution of the service users who shape the continuous improvement of the cancer services in the South East.

“This report will be influential towards driving quality improvement and expansion of cancer services for the benefit of the growing population of the South East.  We would also like to acknowledge the strength and courage of people affected by cancer, who have accessed the UWH South East cancer services.”

The report summarises cancer related activities across the UHW South East Cancer Services in 2023 and 2024. It highlights the multidisciplinary and complexity of care being delivered to patients of the region and includes input from 16 different departments across the diagnostic, therapeutic and supportive care domains.

One in three go for a greener job

A third of workers in Ireland (34%) say they actively check a company’s green credentials before applying for a role, a new study by Matrix Recruitment has found.

Publishing its first annual ESG Careers Report, following a survey of more than 160 adults in Ireland, Matrix Recruitment found that when it comes to accepting a job, sustainability was found to play an increasingly important role:

• 50% of those surveyed say the presence of a sustainability policy influences their de-

cision to accept a role in the firm..

• Over half (56%) of under30s say they would ask potential employers about their sustainability goals during interviews.

• However, only 12% would refuse a job offer outright if a sustainability policy wasn’t in place.

Speaking about the survey results, Rena Weld, Recruitment Manager at Matrix Recruitment, said: “We’re seeing a clear shift in what today’s workforce expects. Younger candidates especial-

ly are prioritising environmental values and ESG commitments. Employers must embed sustainability into their culture, and not just talk about it, if they want to attract and retain talent.”

Among the 62% of respondents not currently in a green role, the majority (85%) said they would consider a job that contributes to climate action in future. However, key barriers include unclear job descriptions (29%) and a shortage of entry-level positions (28%).

Additionally, over half

(51%) admitted to lacking formal qualifications in sustainability, yet, only one in ten professionals surveyed were willing to return to fulltime education or take a pay cut to increase their chances of obtaining a ‘green’ role. When asked how they would improve their chances of landing a green role, , three in five (59%) professionals interested in moving into the green sector said they would like to upskill within their company and under half were open to doing a parttime college course (45%).

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

How August can be the wicked month

And so August has come around, and, being the month of my birthday, I am again reminded of how quickly life goes in — I mean where have the last 20 rears gone? What happened to yesterday? Oh, for those August days of my wild, abandoned youth, where every summer day lasted a lifetime. Now, August is my wicked reminder that life is ephemeral.

Upon publication in 1965 ‘August Is A Wicked Month’, as with most of Edna O’Brien’s early novels, was banned in several jurisdictions, including Ireland. The “wickedness” in the title of her fourth novel refers to the harsh realities that challenge protagonist Ellen’s initial expectations, highlighting the contrast between the romanticised idea of escaping her life lived thus far and the complex truths of her reality. The title is regularly men-

tioned to this day by commentators on topics ranging from business to politics, to fashion — and the weather.

Some call this month the ‘dog days of summer’, to signify the hottest and most humid days of the season –and we, unusually so, have been having such. But with August upon us, maybe this should be called the ‘swan song of summer’. July is now behind us, and June is long in the rearview mirror. The bulk of summer is almost over. These days, for me, it always goes so fast. As we continue to sprint through August, there are a few milestones we hit which help to reinforce the idea that the summer days are slowly slipping past us. Many of us tie the summer months to those late-evening sunsets. It’s always a joy to see light in the sky at 10pm. But as we clear the midpoint of this month, the

sun will set before 8pm – a sure sign summer is on the way out.

By now, you’ve seen the school supplies in the book shop. Time for the young to trade in scooters and swimming for pencils and paper. One in three parents are staring at their bank account wondering how on earth they’ll cover all those backto-school expenses without going further into the red. The Irish League of Credit Unions’ (ILCU) latest survey shows just how tough things are as the new school year beckons.

This year parents of primary school children will spend an average of €1,450, up by €364 on last year. For secondary school families it’s €1,560, up €159. One in three parents are going into debt to cover costs up an average of €376 a household. Last year it was only one in four taking on extra debt

of €368. More than a third are having to say no to at least one item their children need, with new gym gear the most deferred. What’s driving these costs up? After-school care heads the list for primary schools. Then there’s the pressure

“Romanticised idea of escaping her life lived thus far ...

to buy branded items with 59% of parents feeling the strain. And as for those ‘voluntary’ contributions that 78% of schools ask for, it’s no wonder 61% of parents think schools aren’t pulling their weight to keep prices down. Overall, 64% see backto-school as a real financial burden, up from 62% in 2024.

More families are making sacrifices with 37% forgoing family holidays and 18% cutting back on food. That’s not just skipping a treat, but rather real hardship. Behind the statistics, this August sees families stressing out, children missing out and debts piling up. And that’s before you switch on heat, come late autumn.

Meanwhile, summer camps are done and (good lord) shops have Halloween decorations for sale and pumpkin spice on anything and everything.

National

Summer has been short, but good for the lucky ones who could afford a trip to the Costa What-have-you or a meander along the Wild Atlantic Way. You won’t feel it now, Yer Man at the bar says. Soon, the evenings go back and then that Halloween nonsense. And then, be japes... are you ready for it? For what? I ask. The end of the world no less, he says. According to those Mayans. Sure what with Trump and the rise of Russia and famine and climate change and all those fireballs of airplanes coming out of the sky... sure it’s as obvious as the nose on your face. Revelations is right. Really, I say, feigning interest. Yep, the old Book of Revelations. Wicked, I say. Still there is always the Christmas. Have you started the shopping yet?

Heritage Week in Kilkenny, 16-24

August - An annual nationwide celebration of Ireland's built, natural and cultural heritage

An exciting programme of over 50 events around Co. Kilkenny is planned to celebrate National Heritage Week which will take place from 16-24 August. National Heritage Week is a Heritage Council initiative held annually in partnership with local authority Heritage Officers. The week invites us to foster a deeper appreciation for the heritage that shapes our identities and communities, ensuring its preservation for future generations. It brings together volunteers, community groups and heritage enthusiasts to share their experience, knowledge, culture and practices through a variety of public events, the majority of which are free to attend.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh commented: “We are immensely proud of our rich heritage in Co. Kilkenny and the stewards of that heritage across the county who work tirelessly to protect it and promote it all year round. I encourage everyone to get out and about to explore all that Kilkenny’s heritage has to offer during Heritage Week.

Now in its 20th year, National Heritage Week continues to be one of Ireland’s largest cultural events. This year’s theme, Exploring Our Foundations, invites us to reflect on the legacies of our past and examine the foundations upon which our communities, cultures, and identities are built. The theme encourages event organisers and participants alike to dig deeper — literally and metaphorically — into the layers that shape our understanding of place, tradition, and change. From ancient settlements and early industries, to the evolution of traditions, beliefs, and ideas, Exploring Our Foundations provides a framework to engage with the many threads of our natural, built, and

Heritage Week

cultural heritage. It offers an opportunity to uncover stories of place and people, fostering a deeper connection with the past and how it continues to inform the present. A diverse and fun-filled programme of free and family-friendly events will take place right across the county over the course of Heritage Week with events ranging from art workshops to lectures, exhibitions and walking tours. For the full programme, further information and booking see: www.heritageweek.ie .

Kilkenny Design turns 60

The company behind the Kilkenny retail business returned to profitability in the 2024 financial year as it benefited from strategic initiatives and "decisive actions” designed to boost its bottom line, according to management.

The Kilkenny Group, whose chairperson is Marian O'Gorman, made a €504,000 operating profit in the 12 months to the end of January 2024, compared to an operating loss of €866,000 the previous year.

The company operates close to 20 outlets around the country, including its flagship store on Dublin's Nassau Street.

The family-owned firm said that it had been operating in an "environment of economic volatility” and faced headwinds that were beyond its control.

It is also keeping an eye on the potential impact of tariffs on its cost structure and taking steps to mitigate those risks.

The company employs more than 200 people, and its chief executive is Evelyn Moynihan.

Despite the operating profit generated during the 2024 financial year, turnover declined to €31.4m from €33.1m.

"The ongoing global cost of living crisis added pressures on our cost structures posing additional challenges to the performance of the business,” the directors noted in accounts just filed for the business.

They noted that the company has returned to profitability and predicts "robust” cash flow projections up to July next year.

"This improvement reflects the positive impact of strategic

initiatives and decisive actions taken by management, including operational restructuring, and proactive cost-saving strategies, margin-enhancing activities and the successful introduction of new brands and new own-brand ranges into the portfolio,” they said.

"Despite ongoing challenges in the broader economic environment, the directors remain confident in the group's ability to continue as a going

concern.

"We have taken decisive steps to restructure operations, enhance cost efficiency, and implement innovative initiatives aimed at driving margin improvement.”

They said the company also successfully restructured its debt last month, giving it improved financial flexibility and meaning the firm can meet its debt obligations as they fall due. A loan facility of €2.48m,

which was due to expire this month, was refinanced in July.

At the end of January 2024, the firm also had €2.4m in warehoused debt under a government scheme introduced during the Covid pandemic.

That money was repayable from May 2024 in 120 monthly instalments, with a 0pc interest rate.

"Looking ahead, the company will continue to adapt to evolving consumer trends and market conditions,” the directors said.

"Key focus areas include digital transformation, customer engagement, product innovation, employee training and engagement, operational efficiency and sustainability initiatives. These measures

reflect our commitment to long-term sustainability and shareholder value.”

The company's pre-tax profit in the 2024 financial year was €171,000, compared to €1.1m in 2023.

The 2023 figure reflected a €1.9m impairment reversal, however.

A row between the family behind the chain erupted in 2016 when a decision was taken by Ms O'Gorman to terminate the employment of her son, Greg, at the group. He took legal action to prevent his dismissal. The case was settled the following year.

Ms O'Gorman's four children, Greg, Michelle, Melissa and Christopher, each hold shares, alongside their mother

Second appeal lodged against billionaire Dyson's 'chopper pad in historic estate

A second appeal has been lodged with An Coimisiún Pleanála against a helicopter pad planned for Ballynatray House in Co Waterford [pictured], which was recently sold to British billionaire James Dyson for around €35m.

Ballynatray House and its 850-acre estate are located on a bend of the Blackwater River close to the WaterfordCork border, and was previously owned by British property developer Henry Gwyn-Jones.

The industrialist and designer made his millions partly from the invention of the bagless Dyson vacuum cleaner, and played a prominent role in advocating for Brexit, before he bought

construction of a helicopter landing area and associated site works, as well as the removal of two existing wastewater treatment units, and the installation of one new wastewater treatment system.

The council sought further information last December, and this was received on May 9 this year.

A local resident, David Orr, who said he lives around 500m from the proposed helipad, objected to the plans due to potential for noise disturbance and impact on a wildlife conservation area.

He then submitted another appeal on July 24. That case is due to be decided by November 26.

From small historic beginnings to back to profitability

in the company behind the business.

Since our inception in Kilkenny City in the 1960s, their purpose and mission has been tightly interwoven with supporting, promoting, and elevating Irish makers and designers.

Kilkenny Design was established in 1963 by the Irish government at Kilkenny Design Centre in the heartland of Ireland, Kilkenny City. Craftspeople were invited from around the world to Kilkenny Design Centre to share their skills and work collaboratively with the community to help develop novice Irish crafters into self-sufficient entrepreneurs.

Working with precious metals, ceramics, weaving, textiles and more, a successful sustainable design scheme was born. The workshop scheme was revolutionary for its era and put a spotlight on growing traditional Irish crafts using indigenous materials including bog, oak, clay, marble and more.

The local crafts and gifts on display were hugely popular with visitors which in turn inspired the government to open the first Kilkenny Design store in Kilkenny City in 1965.

Upskilling popular in counties

Upskilling proved popular in Kilkenny and Carlow last year according to Skillnet Ireland.

More than 3,200 people and 880 businesses across the two counties participated last year in offerings from the national workforce development agency, with strong demand from areas of services, agriculture, tourism and hospitality.

Top priorities were technical and engineering skills, regulatory compliance, and digital expertise to boost competitiveness and innovation.

Director Dave Flynn told KCLR News the courses are vital for business cohesion.

Skillnet Ireland is the national agency responsible for spearheading workforce development for the enterprise sector on behalf of the Government of Ireland.

the Ballynatray estate. Christopher Nicholson lodged plans with Waterford City and County Council last October 31 for proposed works to the grounds of Bal-

lynatray House, which is a protected structure. The plans involve the

As I See It Marianne Heron

Safety in ready-meals is food for thought

You hardly need statistics to tell you that there is a growth industry happening wherever you do the food shopping. The refrigerated shelves of lasagne, chicken curry or cottage pie are stretching exponentially in supermarkets and convenience stores. Ready meals are moving more and more of the culinary action from homes to production sites.

One in every 10 families now buy a ready meal once a week and the trend is growing, catching up on the frozen food market and the value of ready meal sales is growing faster than other food sectors as new customers begin buying them and the price of each meal goes up. Big and growing business, then for the 75 companies in the sector with sales estimated at €320 million.

Is the market growth driven by a desire to chicken tikka masala or to eat a grab and go or is the surge also about

a craving for convenience?

Market research suggests that the latter is a big factor, people don’t want to spend time cooking. Perhaps, more accurately people don’t have the time to cook or they are trying to save precious time for other things, like children or themselves.

So ready meals are a hot item on the shopping list now. But how healthy and how safe are they?

Worryingly there have now been three food recalls over concerns about listeriosis within a fortnight. The first involved what the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI.) termed an extensive outbreak in which one person died and nine other were found to be infected. One recall involved 141 products from Lusk, Co. Dublin-based Ballymaguire Foods. The two further recalls involved spinach and salads products from McCormack Family Farms and traditional

hummus from Tom and Ollie plus potted coriander from O’Hanlon Herbs. The FSAI emphasise that there is no evidence that these are linked to any other food recall.

Listeria monocytogenes is a pathogenic bacteria, found in water infected by sewage, soil and some foodstuffs and can cause infections when ingested by people who are susceptible like the elderly and pregnant women or where high levels of the bacteria present. It’s a sneaky bacteria, which can survive refrigeration and even freezing but heat does kill it.

Uncooked foodstuffs like soft cheeses , salads and foods which haven’t been heated thoroughly are sometimes a source. Also the symptoms are not immediate and can take up to 70 days to become apparent. According to the FSAI, there are between 14-22 identified cases a year, symptoms are

flu-like with vomiting and diarrhoea but for most of us our immune systems see off the infection without our being aware of it.

“Up to 75 companies with sales estimated at €320m ....

While the authorities like the FSAI are there to protect food quality, there are measures that we can take after we have bought the product to make sure it is safe, points out Elena Alexa, lecturer in food safety management at Technological University (TU) Dublin.

In the case of food safety concerns with uncooked foods like grab-and-go salads or snacks there are many different elements and ingredients involved before the food is consumed, Elena says: “It is down to the consumer to insure how it is kept and to shorten the steps between buying and consuming.Food should be kept in the fridge at the proper temperature of between 1-4 degrees, delaying the growth of micro- organisms.”

We are inclined to blame meat products for contamination but fruit and vegetables can also be a source and these should be washed,

while raw and cooked foods should be stored separately to avoid cross-contamination, points out Elena. “With oven ready foods they need to be cooked at a suitable temperature – so that the whole product reaches as least 70 degrees including core product on a temperature probe.”

A frequent source of problems is where consumers don’t follow the cooking instruction for products which need to be cooked long enough at a suitable temperature, whether in oven or microwave to insure that the food is piping hot. “People don’t read the labels,” says Elena, mentioning that temperatures between 4-60 degrees can be ideal for rapid bacterial growth.

“Unless all the evidence is ready about contamination, it is hard to know the source of the infection and in most cases the source is never identified.”

Back to college boost - get your zest back

We’re coming to the end of summer and it’s time to return to or go to college for the first time. For some first-time parents this change can cause some worry or stress. I know that I was excited and proud that my two were ready to go to college, but I was worried about how they would get on, would they party too much, would they eat enough, would they be safe? These were all questions that passed through my mind.

One of my main concerns was about eating healthily. I used to send them back well prepped with food but with no guarantee that they would eat it. So, I sent them off with a multi vitamin and fish oils as well in the hope that if they didn’t eat they would at least take the multi-vitamin. We can only do our best at the end of the day. I know that many of you are worried about their eating habits too.

We worry that they will live on pizza and pasta with not enough protein too much fizzy stuff or worse, and not enough water.

A couple of parents have asked me about a tonic for their teenagers before heading off to college. They were worried because their teenagers had had a busy year with the leaving cert, part-time work and their social lives.

I recommended Zest Active by Revive Active, perfect for busy, active students and young adults. Their sachets are packed 25 active ingredients including B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, and amino acids, all of which support energy, immune system and brain function. Simply add to

water for a pleasant tasting refreshing drink. It’s suitable from age 18+, busy parents and teachers too.

If you’ve all had a busy summer and need a boost before college, Zest Active by Revive Active can help you feel a bit more energised and ready to go. You can take it throughout the college term, and it works well alongside Omega 3 capsules by Revive Active for extra brain support.

So, if you are like me and worried about your students energy, immunity, or that they won’t eat right during the college term, then Zest Active is worth taking a look at. Food supplements are not intended to be used as a substitute for a varied diet.

CLAIR WHITTY

Governments in Ireland, Northern Ireland and in England are currently progressing new regulations to reduce the appeal and accessibility of vapes to children. In this report , Dr Ciara Reynolds and Dr Joanna Purdy (Public Health Development Officers at the Institute of Public Health) share insights on data on vaping on the island of Ireland, with a focus on use among children and young people.

In Ireland, there are three sources of data on children’s use of vapes – the Health Behaviour and School-Aged Children Survey (HBSC), the European School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (ESPAD) and the Growing Up in Ireland (GUI).

Among 15- and 16-yearolds only, almost four in 10 (39%) had tried vapes and almost one in 5 (18%) were current users. Among 12- to 17-year olds, despite a three-percentage point decrease in ever use of vapes between 2018 and 2022 (22% vs 19%), there was a four-percentage point increase in last 30-day use (9% to 13%). Furthermore, both ever-use and current use of vapes was higher than use of combustible cigarettes.

According to the Growing Up in Ireland longitudinal study almost one in 10 13-year-olds had ever used a vape.

We identified some data gaps that, if addressed, could help guide policy development in both jurisdictions. These include better longitudinal data to help better understand the pathways of vape use from experimentation to regular use and pathways to or from tobacco use. Further data on the types of vaping products, frequency of use as well as dual use patterns

Vaping access to children: new laws on the way

would also be informative. Vaping among children is not harmless. A recent review of systematic reviews conducted by the Institute of Public Health policy team concluded that there was strong, highquality evidence of an association between vaping and subsequent tobacco cigarette use based on longitudinal data. It also found some evidence to support the association between vaping and respiratory problems, mental ill-health, and substance use.

The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland conducted a toxicological analysis of flavours in vapes using AI technology. They concluded that, when heated, the formation of many hazardous chemicals including 127 that are classified as ‘acute toxic’, 153 as ‘health hazards’ and 225 as ‘irritants’.

An important consideration in relation to harm estimation is that practically nothing is known about a common pattern of use - dual use. The health impacts of combined tobacco and vape use are unknown and the risks from dual exposure requires careful consideration.

The most recent data shows that vape use is not just ‘experimentation’. The most significant trend in the data is a rising pattern of current and regular use. It has been suggested that product and market changes including disposables and use of nicotine salts may be leading more children to become addicted.

There is clear evidence of an increase in vaping among children in Ireland and Northern Ireland. The evidence shows this cannot be considered as ‘harmless experimentation’ and the increasing prevalence of vaping among youth requires a regulatory response.

The growing risks associated with e-cigarettes

The use of e-cigarettes, also known as vaping, has only continued to increase in popularity over the years. However, there is a lack of long-term studies on the health effects of vaping, especially for adults.

A new study out of Johns Hopkins Medicine in the US gives us important insights into the health risks associated with e-cigarettes.

“There remains great uncertainty about the relative harm of e-cigarettes as compared to traditional smoking,” says Michael Blaha, senior author of the study and Professor of Cardiology and Epidemiology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, in a press release. “Until now, there has been scant longitudinal data in large, high-quality datasets linking exclusive e-cigarette use to new-onset cardiometabolic health conditions.”

Vaping and COPD

The study, published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research,

confirms the link between e-cigarette use and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This counteracts some claims that e-cigarettes are the “safer” option when compared to traditional cigarettes.

It is well-documented that traditional cigarettes carry a

host of health risks, including COPD, heart disease, heart failure, heart attack, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Although the risk of developing COPD while smoking traditional cigarettes is higher than vaping-only, researchers found a significant association between e-cigarettes and

COPD. They also found that vaping minimally increases your risk for hypertension, as well.

These results align with previous studies that have found vaping can increase your chances of developing asthma, along with a general higher risk for respiratory diseases.

Type 2 diabetes

A study of this scope and scale has not been conducted before on the health effects and risks associated with vaping in adults. For this analysis, medical information was gathered on a diverse group of almost a quarter-million people ranging in age from 30 years to 70 years old.

Out of the people studied, 3,164 reported that they exclusively smoked e-cigarettes, while 8,316 commonly used both e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes.

Another 33,778 were traditional-only smokers, and the remaining 203,932 didn’t smoke at all.

The research team followed up on the medical records of these individuals four years after the initial report.

They found that there were 23,745 new cases of hypertension, 13,179 cases of type 2 diabetes, 9,801 cases of heart failure, and 7,925 new cases of COPD.

There was no significant cor-

relation between those who only smoked e-cigarettes and an increase in type 2 diabetes or heart failure.

But there was a notable increase between e-cigarette smoking and COPD diagnosis that researchers think deserves long-term attention.

“These results are a critical stepping stone for future prospective research on the health effects of e-cigarettes.

While in this short-term study there was no association between exclusive e- cigarette use and cardiovascular events, there was an association with incident COPD and possibly hypertension that will need to be closely watched over longer term follow-up,” continues Blaha.

The authors of the study hope these results will be used in future regulations and policies surrounding the health risks of vaping.

Beyond, Beneath, Beside explores the site of the Tea Houses and their proximity to the River Nore and its ne arby tributary the River Breagagh. During her residency, artist Kate Fahey investigated the locale, including Talbot’s Inch model ar ts and crafts village, the former Greenvale Woollen Mills, and engaged with the rich subterranean, cultural and industrial history associated with the rivers, inc luding the great flood in 1947.

Drawing on materials, forms and motifs relevant to the historical arts and crafts revival in Kilkenny, the installation positions the neighbouring River Breaghagh (translates as the ‘deceitful river’) as a swirling, twisting and uneasy presence, a trickster figure, liable to rise and surge unpredictably. Situating tactile encounters with the material world at the centre of this inquiry, the exhibition poetically echoes a sense of networked and interconnected resonances across time and space, situated beyond, beneath and b eside the riverbank.

The artist Kate Fahey is an artist based between Kilkenny and London, working with sound, s culpture, moving image, print and installation. She has shown her work at spaces including the ICA

Exploring Kilkenny’s Tea Houses

London, VISUAL Carlow, the Bluecoat Liverpool, the CCArt Andratx, Arti et Amicitiae Amsterdam and Pallas Projects Dublin. She received an MA in Fine Art Print at the Royal College of Art, London and completed a practice-based PhD at the University of the Arts London in 2020. She is a senior lecturer in Fine Art at Oxford Brookes University. The Tea Houses are situated by the River Nore in Kilkenny city centre and have been acquired by Kilkenny Arts Office to host an art programme that encourages a sense of community and active citizenship.

Curated by Rachel Botha. Design by Emmet Brown. Open daily for Kilkenny Arts Festival, then Thursday to Saturday weekly until Friday 19 September, 11:30am to 5:30pm Kindly supported by Kilkenny Arts Office, Kilkenny County Council, ArtLinks and Arts Council, Ireland. Artist Kate Fahey and curator Rachel Botha

Opinion

Mind-shift needed on tackling our money woes Your Money & You

The economy is thriving this year with tech giants and exports fuelling growth. At the end of January this year, Irish households held over €163 billion in deposits in financial institutions, marking the highest level on record. Yet, more than 40% of adults have less than €5,000 in savings, and only 35% of private sector workers have pensions according to Central Bank data.

Despite our Celtic Tiger ‘scars’ many Irish households are financially insecure. Have we not seen friends and family juggle sky-high rents and ‘crypto fashions’. We urgently need professional financial advice. But too many of us refuse it.

Financial advice isn’t just for the wealthy. It’s for all. Take pensions as a prime example. The State pension won’t sustain a comfortable retirement with life expectancy now past 80. The upcoming auto-enrolment

John Ellis

scheme may but, without real guidance, you risk underfunding and/or making poor investment choices.

The housing crisis adds complexity. First-time buyers face tricky mortgage options from the current provid-

ers and the Help-to-Buy schemes. With global trade risks (eg. Trump’s tariffs) and inflation hitting budgets, we all need advice either toward diversified investments or planning emergency funds, preventing 2008-style mistakes.

So why do we shun this help? Overconfidence! An ESRI study shows 60% of Irish adults think they’re “above average” when it comes to money management. Yet many fall for

high-interest credit cards or “pub-inspired” stock picks. Cost is another barrier. Two hundred to €500 for a consultation feels steep when your energy bills have doubled. But skipping advice costs more long-term, from missed tax breaks to bad investments.

Distrust lingers too. Fuelled by scandals like the tracker mortgage saga, making us wary of ‘salesy’ advisors. And, as The Irish Times recently noted, we often seek validation not guidance, chasing risky trends like crypto instead of stable portfolios. Cultural factors play a role. Ireland’s boom-andbust history breeds a ‘live for today’ mindset. Why plan when another recession looms? Social media is not helping, with influencers pushing get-rich-quick schemes. Women especially face a hurdle. Irish Life data shows they save less for retirement due to career breaks

and the gender pay gap yet often avoid advice due to time or intimidation in a male-dominated field. We need a mindset shift. Policymakers could develop financial education to include schools or subsidise advice through credit unions. You could start today by using the free tools from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, then consult a registered advisors via the Central Bank of Ireland registers. Why? Stronger savings, better legacies, and an economy where growth benefits all, not just the financially literate. Ignoring advice isn’t independence. It’s reckless. As we navigate opportunity and uncertainty let’s choose wisdom over wishful thinking. You will thank yourself in time to come.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

“We need price transparency, not political excuses” says Senator Patricia Stephenson as grocery prices squeeze Carlow and Kilkenny families

Social Democrats Senator for Carlow and Kilkenny Patricia Stephenson has said that the latest findings from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) must serve as a wakeup call for the Government to act on soaring food prices and the secrecy of supermarket profits.

The CCPC’s review, published yesterday, revealed that while Irish agricultural output prices surged by 19.3% between 2024 and 2025, input costs actually fell by 4.6%. In contrast, EU average output prices only rose 2.6% during the same period.

“These figures are staggering,” Senator Stephenson said. “It raises serious questions about who is profiting in the food supply chain and why Irish consumers are paying far more than their European neighbours, families across Carlow and Kilkenny are seeing the impact every week at the checkout.”

The Senator criticised the

on repeated requests from the Agri-Food Regulator for stronger legal powers to in vestigate supply chains and demand market data from major food businesses.

The CCPC also repeated its conclusion that it found no evidence of coordinated price gouging by supermar kets. However, this was again based on incomplete data, as some major supermarket chains do not publish their Irish profits.

“It’s not acceptable that supermarket giants can hide their profits while people here are struggling to afford basics like bread and milk,” said Senator Stephenson. “We don’t allow secrecy in other essential

sectors, so why are groceries any different?”

We need full price transparency from farm to shelf, and we need the Government to stop making excuses for big retailers. People in Carlow and Kilkenny deserve better than political inaction while their grocery bills go through the roof.”

Closh Truce Garden

Closh Truce Garden showcases SOS work in full Bloom!

jbsphotoskilkenny

In 2021, when the flag to commemorate the signing of the Truce in 1921, was raised above the historic Closh in Kilkenny city, no one could imagine the series of actions that would unfold over the following four years. Actions conceived, thought through and completed by volunteers across all walks of life in Kilkenny, has led to a space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy and at the same time a space that is contributing to transformational change in how we consider what is beautiful.

Keep Kilkenny Beautiful led the project over four years and welcomes people from a wide range of walks of life. The committee are always keen to include people with disabilities in their activities. Central to the development of this beautiful inclusively created space has been the contribution of the participants of the Bloom School of Horticulture. The Bloom School of Horticulture is one of the options available to people attending the SOS disability services and this is where participants can engage in a range of activities, where

they learn how to grow and care for plants and engage in gardening activities. The opportunity to include the work of the people in the Bloom School of Horticulture was one that was readily accepted and the added bonus of the expertise of Donal Croughan, the project leader was a great boost

to the development of the Closh Truce Garden.

Aptly named The Closh Truce Garden, this area was developed following the erecting of a flagpole to commemorate the 1921 Truce marking the end of the War of Independence. The part of the Closh nearest Friary St has now been reclaimed for nature and the idea of remembering the past and moving forward to the challenges of today, we must make peace with nature and reverse the damage that has been done to nature particularly in the last 50 years. This garden with the support and input of the local community under the remit of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful has evolved into a place to remember, to reflect and to reconcile and make peace. The work and contribution of the Bloom School of Horticulture is a major part of that space and demonstrates the ability of everyone to contribute to make the world a better place for everyone in our community.

of the city streets. The pots that were used to grow the plants were recycled from a wholesale nursery. The pollinator friendly plants were grown from tiny plugs, with the participants in Bloom School of Horticulture and

the design and choice of plants in the two large pollinator beds were overseen by staff in SOS Bloom School of Horticulture. This design was then planted by Keep Kilkenny Beautiful, The Lions Club and Kilkenny Volunteer Centre. Commemorating the War of Independence, seven

Mountain Ash trees were planted. Each representing the signatories of the Proclamation of the Irish Republic. Also included here are three Hollies each representing those that died in the ambush on Friary St during that time not far from the Closh. The mural on the old handball alley was designed in conjunction with local residents who shared their stories in workshops over a 6 week period, with artist Graham Carew. The garden has matured beautifully. Late last year over 30,000 pollinator friendly bulbs were planted in front of the mural and adds another piece of beauty and food for bees in the spring. Most recently, two benches have been added, with help from the Kilkenny Municipal District team. These were donated through the Kilkenny UN Vets Association. They were built by hand in the Midlands Prison Portlaoise. Another example of how we can all contribute to making the world a better place. Now it’s beautiful to see the local people come out, meet, sit and enjoy the area and be proud of that beautiful space, that is the Closh, in full bloom!

The circular cobble lock area was laid down with stone that was removed from one

Central to the development of this beautiful inclusively created space has been the contribution of the participants of the Bloom School of Horticulture from SOS Kilkenny pictured at the Closh Truce Garden

Cllr Maria Dollard (Keep Kilkenny Beautiful) and Fabian Gaspari (PRO and KKB volunteer)

Jack Fahy of Irish Prison Services attended the gathering at the Closh Truce Garden and is pictured with team members and leaders from The Bloom School of Horticulture from SOS Kilkenny

Two benches have been added to The Truce Garden at the Closh. With help from the Kilkenny Municipal District team, and donated through the Kilkenny UN Vets Association. They were built by hand in the Midlands Prison Portlaoise.

Back Row (L-R): CS Darren Nolan, Gerry Dempsey, Kevin McGarry, Billy Dunne, Liam Barry and Larry Scallan Front Row (L-R): Ollie Cullen, Andy Melay, Lt Col Robert Kearney and Jack Fahy

Representatives from various groups, all of whom contributed to the Closh Truce Garden.

Pictured: Fabian Gaspari (KKB), Ollie Cullen, CS Darren Nolan 3InfBN, Kevin McGarry, Billy Dunne, Liam Barry, and Larry Scallan

Seated: Cllr Maria Dollard, Andy Melay, Lt Col Robert Kearney OC 3 Inf BN, Jack Fahy (Irish Prison Services) and Pat Boyd (KKB)

While we can try to slow it down, human ageing is something we currently can’t stop from happening. However, past studies show that ageing doesn’t necessarily happen at the same pace throughout our life.

Instead, there are certain ages when a person’s body may experience a burst of ageing.

Previous studies show that the body may undergo rapid ageing around the ages of 44 and 60.

And there is still much to discover about the ageing process, especially when it comes to how it impacts the body’s organs.

Science & Wellbeing Understanding ageing: an age-old question

“Ageing, as a systemic, degenerative process that spans multiple organs and biological strata, remains one of the most profound unresolved questions in the life sciences,” Guang-Hui Liu, PhD, regenerative medicine researcher at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, explained to Medical News Today.

“Throughout the extended human lifespan, two fundamental issues persist: Do all organ systems adhere to a unified aging rhythm? Does a molecular spatiotemporal hub exist that orchestrates organism-wide senescence? Despite their centrality to understanding the essence of aging, these questions have long-lacked systematic, empirical resolution.”

Liu is the corresponding author of a new study, recently published in the journal Cell, that has found that by focusing on ageing-related protein changes in the body, they can get a clearer picture of how the body’s organs and tissues age over time, including an ageing acceleration around the age of 50.

And of these proteins, scientists found that expressions of 48 of them related to diseases — such as cardiovascular and fatty liver — increased with age.

For this study, researchers

analysed 516 samples of 13 types of human tissues collected from 76 organ donors between the ages of 14 and 68 who had passed away from traumatic brain injury.

The tissue samples included cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, endocrine, and musculoskeletal samples, as well as immune system, skin, and blood samples.

Next, researchers documented the types of proteins found in the organ and tissue samples, allowing them to create what Liu called “a proteomic ageing atlas” that spans 50 years of human life.

“Covering seven physiological systems and 13 pivotal tissues, the atlas presents a panoramic, dynamic portrait of organismal ageing from a protein-centric perspective,” Liu explained.

“The more than 20,000 proteins encoded by the genome serve as the structural bedrock of cells; their dynamic networks exquisitely orchestrate physiological homeostasis and act as the principal executors of virtually every biological process.

“Consequently, systematically charting a panoramic, lifespan-wide atlas of pro-

teomic dynamics and dissecting the reprogramming rules of protein networks at organand system-level scales are pivotal for accurately identifying the core drivers of aging and for establishing precise intervention targets,” he said.

At the study’s conclusion, researchers found that the biggest ageing changes in the body’s organs and tissues seems to occur around age 50.

“Ages 45–55 are identified as a landmark inflection point: most organ proteomes undergo a ‘molecular cascade storm,’ with differentially expressed proteins surging

explosively, marking this interval as the critical biological transition window for systemic, multi-organ ageing,” says Liu.

“Notably, the aortic proteome is reshaped most dramatically; its secretome and the circulating plasma proteome evolve in tight concordance, indicating that senescence-associated secreted factors (senokines) may serve as the hub mechanism broadcasting aging signals throughout the body,” Liu explained.

“Organ aging is the essence of human chronic disease; each geriatric illness is merely

a specific manifestation of this underlying organ aging.”

Colleague Cheng-Han Chen, MD said: “This study found that protein changes in the body associated with ageing seem to accelerate roughly around age 50, depending on the type of body tissue. This is an interesting finding that helps us better understand the types of biochemical changes that underlie ageing and potentially provide targets for therapy at different ages.

“Science is only beginning to understand the biological mechanisms involved in ageing,” Chen said. “Studies like this help us to identify the basis of normal aging, and in turn provides insight into how deviations in normal biology lead to diseases such as cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease. Ultimately, this will help us understand how to keep patients healthy and ageing well. It may also help us to develop new therapies for diseases that result from accelerated ageing.”

“Future research should attempt to expand on these findings in more diverse demographic groups and as well as in other important organs such as the brain and kidneys,” he said.

Fellow researcher Manisha Parulekar, MD said: “By understanding the what and the when of ageing, we can develop the tools to compress morbidity — allowing people to live not just longer, but healthier and more vibrant lives.”

“A longitudinal study, following the same individuals over decades will be helpful,” Parulekar added when asked what she would like to see as next steps for this research.

“This would track their personal proteomic changes over time, allowing us to study genetic and lifestyle differences between people and providing additional confirmation for the ‘age 50 inflection point’.”

Associated Press

So, can you eat your way to living longer?

By Maria Cohut, PhD

Can you eat your way to a longer, healthier life?

And if so, what diet might best foster longevity? Over the past decade or so, a long string of studies has added to the evidence that a Mediterranean-type diet may do wonders for the body and mind. Who, by now, has not heard of the many benefits of the Mediterranean diet?

Characterised by a reliance on fresh, whole vegetables, fruits, and legumes, w ith a moderate amount of oily fish, this diet seems to help with everything from weight loss to better heart health.

In 2025 alone, different studies have found that a Mediterranean-type diet is linked to better brain health, a lower risk of can-

cer, lower blood pressure, and even a decreased risk of chronic constipation.

Research looking at how a Mediterranean diet may help protect memory, for

instance, has suggested that it has a unique and beneficial effect on the gut, which could influence what happens in other parts of the body.

Some researchers have even come up with certain modified versions of the generic Mediterranean diet, in order to help with specific health issues, many of which appear as the body ages.

Most recently, a team from Spain found that following a lower-calorie Mediterranean diet was associated with improved weight management and bone density. The bestknown modified versions of this diet, however, are the Green Mediterranean diet and the MIND diet.

The Green Mediterranean diet emphasises whole, fresh, plant-based foods and does not include any meat. This version is meant to be not only more environmentally friendly but also better at reducing visceral fat — the type of fat that accumulates around organs, and can cause them damage. It may also help slow down brain ageing and lower blood sugar levels, recent research has shown.

The MIND diet, however — which combines elements of the classic Mediterranean and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets — was specifically designed to fight cognitive decline.

These hidden gems prove that Northern Italy offers incredible diversity beyond its famous destinations. Here are the best underthe-radar destinations that deserve a spot on your Northern Italy itinerary.

1. Val di Funes

This valley showcases the Dolomites’ most photogenic landscapes with Alpine churches set against towering peaks.

The area offers excellent hiking trails for all fitness levels, from gentle meadow walks to challenging mountain ascents.

2. Trieste

This multicultural port city blends Italian, Austrian, and Slavic influences into something completely unique.

The historic coffee houses rival Vienna’s, while Miramare Castle offers stunning Adriatic views from its clifftop perch. Easily explore this city via this popular bus tour.

The city also makes an excellent base for exploring Slovenia and Croatia.

3. Bergamo Alta

The medieval upper town sits within preserved walls offering incredible Po Valley views.

The funicular ride up is an experience itself as you climb from the modern lower city.

Cobblestone streets house excellent restaurants serving polenta and casoncelli pasta, all easily accessible from Milan yet feeling worlds away.

4. Lake Braies

This emerald alpine lake in South Tyrol delivers some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in the Dolomites. You can rent wooden rowboats or hike the perimeter trail or simply enjoy sitting and soakingup

Hidden gems in Northern Italy

the

5. Portovenere

This colourful fishing village at the southern tip of Cinque Terre offers stunning coastal beauty with fewer tourists.

The medieval Church of San Pietro perches dramatically on clifftops, while Grotta di Byron provides excellent swimming opportunities. Book a spot on this tour from La Spezia to visit Portovenere and other Cinque Terre towns

6. Cremona

This city produces some of the world’s finest violins, and you can visit workshops where craftsmen still use

traditional methods.

The cathedral and towering bell tower dominate the main square, where restaurants serve excellent tortelli di zucca.

7. Santuario Madonna della Corona

This monastery, that you can reach via car or hiking trail, appears carved directly into a sheer cliff face on Monte Baldo. The sanctuary offers incredible views over the Adige Valley while maintaining an authentic spiritual atmosphere.

You can book a spot on a tour to Madonna della Corona from Verona.

8. Mantua

This Renaissance city sits surrounded by artificial

lakes, giving it an almost island-like feel.

The Ducal Palace contains over 500 rooms filled with frescoes and art rivalling major Italian destinations.

Local restaurants serve stuffed pasta dishes and excellent Lambrusco wine in this surprisingly uncrowded UNESCO site.

9. Langhe

This rolling wine region produces prestigious Barolo and Barbaresco wines in family-run cellars throughout picturesque villages.

Small towns like La Morra offer intimate tastings while restaurants serve truffle dishes and brasato al Barolo. Book a spot on this Langhe & Monferrato vineyard and

wine tasting tour

10. Vipiteno

This medieval town near the Austrian border showcases perfectly preserved Tyrolean architecture with colourful Gothic buildings.

The historic centre features excellent restaurantsserving both Italian and Austrian specialties beneath dramatic Alpine peaks.

It offers authentic mountain town atmosphere and easy hiking access without the tourist crowds.

11. Parma

Famous for ParmigianoReggiano and Parma ham, this city offers production facility tours using centuries-old techniques.

Travel & Leisure

The beautiful cathedral features stunning frescoed domes that rival any major art destination.

Book a spot on the Parmigiano production and Parma Ham tour & tasting

12. Turino

Italy’s first capital offers royal palaces and world-class museums including the renowned EgyptianmMuseum. The Mole Antonelliana provides panoramic Alpineviews, while local aperitivo culture thrives more than almost anywhere in Italy. The surrounding Alps are easily accessible for day trips when you need mountain escapes. Book a spot on a walking tour of the top Turino city highlights.

13. Lake Iseo

This gorgeous lake sees fewer visitors than Como or Garda yet offers equally stunning scenery.

Monte Isola, Europe’s largest lake island, allows only bicycles and walking, creating an incredibly peaceful retreat.

14. Brescia

This city combines impressive Roman ruins with medieval castles and Renaissance squares. The Santa Giulia Museum showcases 3,000 years of history, while the castle provides commanding city views.

15. Treviso

Called “Little Venice” for its canals and historic buildings, Treviso offers charm without overwhelming crowds. The medieval fish market operates in a beautiful historic building, while local osterie serve excellent cicchetti and prosecco. The renowned Prosecco wine region begins just outside the city walls, making vineyard visits easy.

Here’s hoping your holiday is not just fine

This year, several European countries have introduced hefty fines for badly behaved tourists.

But why now – and will it change how people holiday?

Picture the scene: your flight has just landed in Antalya, Turkey, and you can’t wait to get off the plane. You unbuckle, spring from your seat and grab your bag from the overhead locker, eager to start your holiday. But you’ve been a bit too keen.

A flight attendant takes you aside and issues you a swift €60 fine because you have contravened a new rule: from this year, unbuckling your seatbelt or leaving your seat before the plane has stopped

taxiing carries a penalty. It’s a chastening start to your trip.

Europe is cracking down on unruly holidaymakers. From wearing flip flops while driving to smoking on beaches, a new wave of tourist fines is sweeping the continent. In Portugal’s popular seaside town of Albufeira, wearing swimwear off the beach could cost you up to €1,500. In Spain’s Balearic Islands –including Mallorca and Ibiza – public drinking fines can reach €3,000 . Even small infractions, like reserving a sunbed and disappearing, could put a dent in your holiday budget.

At first glance, these measures might seem

like biting the hand that feeds, as many of these destinations earn a significant amount of money from tourism. And

there is still the months of September and October ahead, popular with Irish tourists – not to mention the post-Christmas period,. Authorities say the rules are aimed at protecting residents – and responsible holidaymakers. “The rules, while they might sound rigid and punitive when listed out, are all about encouraging responsible and empathetic travelling,” said Jessica Harvey Taylor, Head of Press at the Spanish Tourism Office. In Malaga, Spain, a new 10-point Improve Your Stay campaign has been rolled out across buses, billboards and social media to outline the type of behaviour expected in the town. It includes dressing

respectfully, avoiding littering, excessive noise and reckless e-scooter use. Fines for up to €750 will be handed out to those who do not comply.

A similar code of conduct in public spaces was launched this year in Albufeira, banning everything from public nudity to urinating in public and abandoning shopping carts. Locals note that the resulting fines are not for show: police are visible in the town’s key nightlife areas and visitors are being ticketed. While codes of conduct are common in environmentally fragile areas or culturally sensitive areas – such as the Galapagos Islands

or Lapland’s Sámi communities – their arrival in mainstream beach resorts signals a shift. Bad tourism behaviour has gone too far and authorities are trying to protect towns and residents from mass tourism’s worst excesses. The list of fines is growing. Ryanair can charge disruptive passengers €500 or more.

Hiking Italy’s Cinque Terre in inappropriate footwear could see travellers shelling out up to €2,500 And France now fines smokers €90 (£78) on the spot for lighting up in public beaches and playgrounds. Collecting a seashell in Greece could cost €1,000 ; swimming in Venice’s canals, €350.

beauty of the scenery of the lake.

Opinion

My festival flirting with infamy and fame Furthermore Gerry Moran

Being a newspaper man has its advantages. This Arts Week (as it was known and always will be known to folks of my vintage), thanks to my association with the Fourth Estate, I was able to get the autograph of a very famous person. Very, very famous person. Now straightway let me state that I am in no way enamoured with fame. Never was. Never will be. This, however, was something special. Something very special. Something unique. Something I simply have to write about and something I feel obliged to share with you. First I had to make an appointment to visit this person. Furthermore I was told that this person would give me 10 minutes of their time and that I was not to ask any questions. Found that a bit – a lot – strange but, knowing how famous, or rather infamous, this person was, I parked my concerns and reminded

myself how rare, how precious this occasion was. I was to arrive 10 minutes prior to my audience which I did and enjoyed some banter with the person’s mentors about the weather (what else?) and, of course, the various

performances we had enjoyed throughout the week – I loved Sam Perkin’s The More Beautiful World in St Canice’s Cathedral which centred on Ciaran Hind’s poignant, and powerful, reading from the inspirational book by the American activist

Charles Eisenstein; they loved Neon Dusk in the Castle Yard. Gerry, enough auld guff who the hell were you meeting? Okay, okay ... are you ready for this?

ALICE KYTELER, Dame

Alice Kyteler or Kilkenny’s

witch as she is known. But, Gerry, Alice Kyteler died over 650 years ago. Precisely. And is that not reason enough to label this encounter very, very special and unique? You bet. Fair dues to Kilkenny’s Arts Festival they ‘resurrected’ Alice, so to speak, and allowed us, the people of Kilkenny, her fellow citizens, to hear her voice.

Soon I was ushered in to meet Alice. And there she was, Kilkenny’s witch – a toothless old hag in black cape and pointed hat! No way. Alice was attired all in red, vibrant red, red for passion, right? And, as I listened to Alice’s tale of woe, how Bishop Richard DeLedrede was accusing her of god-awful heretical practices, I genuinely felt for her. Indeed as I looked, gazed, into her beautiful eyes, I think I fell in love with her. And suddenly I understood how four elderly gentlemen (with

money) fell for this beautiful young woman. And although I was admonished not to speak to Alice throughout our 10 minute session I cheekily told her that I would willingly become her fifth husband and run away with her to Inistioge or the Isle of Man or Iowa. Of course I didn’t. But I did say, looking into her captivating blue eyes (or were they green?) that I understood how four elderly men (with money of course) fell for her charms –charms, as in potions and pills, that would eventually be the death of them. Still, I was prepared to take my chances. In no time at all our 10 minutes were up and off I toddled but not before getting Alice’s autograph – something special, something very special, something unique, you’ll agree . Of course if I had my wits about me I should also have got her phone number!

Healing hands

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

(Continuing the story of the doctors who attended to people in Callan and district in times past...parts one and two can be read on the Observer website)

Dr. Patrick J. Phelan was grandson of the famous Callan historian Tom Shelly. He graduated from UCD and assumed his post at Callan hospital in 1915 and continued to serve there until the hospital closed after independence in 1922.

In 1941, he married Brigid Torpey of Rathculbin, and the couple turned a lot of heads as they cycled around Callan and neighbouring towns and villages on a tandem-a bicycle made for two.

His practice was extensive, encompassing three counties: Kilkenny, Waterford and Tipperary. He overcame the challenge posed by fuel rationing by availing of alternative forms of transport. He alternated between driving a pony-and-trap and gaspowered car to make house calls and cobbled a motorbike together from scrap and spare parts that proved remarkably road-worthy. Dr. Phelan loved his game of golf, played rugby, and was a noted marksman. His quirky sense of humour endeared him to patients of all ages. And he was a godsend to the

local and visiting hurlers. Up to the late fifties, he tended to the wounds and bruises of the sportsmen after their frequent clashes on the Fair Green.

He sat or stood among the throngs of cheering supporters on the sidelines, taking a keen interest in the action, but also mindful of the injuries he would have to treat. His healing hands applied thousands of stitches to robust and athletic bodies that were ripped and torn. He seemed to fly through the numerous cuts and sprains, tending to one battle-scarred player after another in quick succession, and yet managing to accord each sportsman his undivided attention.

There was widespread grief when Dr. Phelan died suddenly at his home in Ceannafahey in 1962. His grave is in Kilbride. His patients decided to erect a memorial to honour his service to Callan.

A committee under the chairmanship of Pat Dooley, Green Street, mounted a vigorous campaign to highlight achievements as a doctor and agreed on a suitable way of saying “thank you” to Paddy Phelan for his selfless dedication.

Given his inventive nature and scientific prowess, they opted to remember the good doctor by financing the building of a science hall in the local CBS.

Margaret Phelan of Kilkenny Archaeological Society unveiled a lovely plaque bearing his name in 1970. Referring to his life, she remarked: “Difficult journeys and long night

vigils cemented the relationship between doctor and patient and turned it into a firm and enduring friendship which lasted all their lives and surely will have carried on into a better world”.

Dr. Patrick Hyland took up the post of dispensary doctor in 1970. He was a native of Edgeworthstown and had practised for twelve years in Bradford before moving to Callan.

Within weeks of his arrival, he decided that this would be the town to which he would devote his life and work. He loved the somewhat laid-back and minimalist mindset of locals, who never seemed to go to extremes in any given situation or over-exert themselves.

He found they had a balanced outlook on life, not taking it too seriously, except perhaps when it came to looking after their health- a

valid and sensible approachand in their pious dedication to preserving the “faith of their fathers.”

He discovered that the admonition “everything in moderation” applied especially to Callan, as the townsfolk adopted a middle-of-the-road, level-headed, if sometimes necessarily humdrum though far from uninspiring attitude to their daily chores and challenges.

Compassion and a genuine rapport with the people who required his attention were the hallmarks of the service he offered to the people of Callan.

Though a highly skilled doctor, patients felt so much at ease when dealing with him that they sometimes forgot that he was in fact there to advise on health issues and to safeguard them from the ravages of life…whether these involved over-indulgence in

the hard stuff, advancing age, serious illness, or the countless minor complaints, real or imaginary, that assail the human condition.

A favourite saying of his that never ceased to provoke a laugh or two was: “Look, don’t worry, I had that myself one time and look at me now.” It was part of his way of softening the blow of almost any setback or anxiety that a patient might present him with at the dispensary.

He had the patience of Job and the Wisdom of Solomon. Apart from providing a topclass service, he went beyond the call of duty in seeing to the wellbeing of patients.

He liked his occasional pint at Hourigan's pub in Bridge Street. He felt at home equally among his “regulars” in the pub as in his dispensary whose waiting room was forever abuzz with laughter and gossip as patients brushed off

their worries by engaging in healthy banter.

Dr. Hyland encouraged this mirthful atmosphere, believing that laughter was the best medicine, and that it could, in certain circumstances, cure potential patients of what ailed them.

Many illnesses, he pointed out, existed more in the mind than in the body, and he recognised the importance of maintaining a positive mental attitude in all situations.

In 1999, the good doctor retired after almost three decades of unstinting service to Callan. The very idea of him bowing out seemed unthinkable to most people in the town.

They had come to regard Dr. Hyland as a semi-permanent fixture on the social landscape. I was present in the Parish Church when locals sprung a happy surprise in his honour. A mural draped across the front of the altar conveyed a hint of what lay in store. It depicted healing hands.

The veteran medic was overcome with emotion when a special presentation was made to him on behalf of the town he had served so well. It was a fitting, and poignant, epilogue to a life of healing. Just a few months after this expression of a community’s gratitude, Dr. Hyland took his leave of Callan, and a world he had enriched by his medical expertise. His funeral drew thousands of mourners, many of them former patients who came to say goodbye to the man they called “The Doc.”

The doctors profession has come a long way since the early 19th century

West Street Callan in 1900s

The president, chairman, and organising committee are delighted to welcome you back once again. Your ongoing support over the years has been incredible, and we’re excited to say that this year’s Iverk Show is shaping up to be one of the best yet ahead of our 200 year anniversary next year!

Here’s why you won’t want to miss it:

A day full of learning: Many people overlook just how educational an agricultural show can be. From livestock to craft exhibits, there’s something to learn around every corner. Take the opportunity to chat with exhibitors, stewards, and judges – they’re always happy to share their knowledge.

Top-class exhibits:

With more than €100,000 in prize money up for grabs, the standard across all categories promises to be exceptional. Whether you're admiring champion cattle, sheep and horses, or browsing exquisite fruit, vegetables, flowers, crafts and home baking, there’s something impressive in every tent. The vintage display and poultry marquee are also sure to be crowd favourites.

Fun and competitions for everyone: Take a break to enjoy the show jumping or the alwayspopular fashion show. Feel-

Join us for the 2025 Iverk Show

Saturday, 23rd August

contest. And for the youngest

Foal Team Championship, the Aldi/ABP Irish Angus bull calf finals (with three age categories), as well as the Tread na hÉireann and young handler competitions.

Tug of War fun:

Cheer on your favourite team as they battle it out in the Tug of War arena. And once the main events are finished, kids can get in on the action too!

Music and family entertainment:

After exploring the showgrounds, sit back and enjoy live music or have a dance, while the children enjoy free toy tractors and other fun activities. It’s the perfect way to unwind before heading home.

A fantastic day for the whole family: As summer draws to a close and the school term nears, this is one of the final chances for a great family day out. There’s something for everyone – young and old, from toddlers to grandparents.

Catch up with old friends: The Iverk Show is a wonderful place to reconnect. Every year, people travel from near and far – even overseas – to catch up with family and friends over a cup of tea and some great memories.

Don’t forget to say hello! If you're visiting from abroad or just returning home for the weekend, please drop by the Information Stand – we’d love to welcome you.

Free parking & easy access:

Parking is still free, with designated spaces for those with disabilities. Entry prices remain the same despite rising costs. Please follow directions from the Gardaí and stewards – they’re there to keep everything running smoothly.

So mark your calendar –Piltown, Co. Kilkenny is the place to be on Saturday 23rd August 2025! We can’t wait to see you there for another unforgettable day at the Iverk Show.

A look back as we celebrate 199 years of the Iverk Show

As we mark 199 years of the Iverk Show in 2025, it's only fitting to reflect on one of the most pivotal moments in our history – a moment many still refer to as ‘Iverk’s finest hour’.

In 1984, the Iverk Show committee made a bold and unanimous decision: to purchase eight acres of land that had first been used for the Show in 1961. This was no small task. At the time, the future of the Show was uncertain. The land we had called home for over two decades was being sold, and there was no suitable alternative site.

The very survival of what was then a 157-year-old tradition was at stake.

Despite limited resources— after investing heavily in infrastructure like a lean-to shed, a full set of show-jumping fences, and additional tents—the committee took a leap of faith. They launched a fundraising campaign under the leadership of John O’Shea, backed by a deposit put forward by committee members themselves.

The appeal reached out across the Barony, inviting individuals, businesses, and organisations to support this crucial cause. A house-tohouse collection followed, and thanks to the extraordinary generosity of the local community, over 1,100 names were recorded as contributors

in that year’s Show catalogue. The campaign was a resounding success. With incredible determination from the fundraising team and the public’s support, the necessary funds were raised, and the land was secured. It laid the foundation—literally and figuratively—for everything

that came after.

Since that momentous year, the Iverk Showgrounds have undergone many developments:

1. Expansion and improvement of the permanent leanto building

2. Construction of office and

6. Addition of modern lighting and broadband infrastructure

7. New permanent toilet blocks

8. Purpose-built cattle showing rings

9. Ongoing environmental upgrades, including tree planting and hedge management

storage facilities

3. Installation of permanent internal roadways

4. Upgraded entrances, roadside fencing, and footpaths

5. Separate access points for vehicles and pedestrians

10. The opening of a new building in 2024, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the initial land purchase. A second portion of land was added in 1991.

From its origins in 1826 as a small, local agricultural fair,

the Iverk Show has grown to become one of Ireland’s premier one-day agricultural events, now drawing more than 20,000 visitors each year. Today, the Show owns 7.98 hectares (19.71 acres) and is powered by the dedication of over 280 volunteers and committee members. None of this would have been possible on rented ground. That leap of faith in 1984 secured not only the land, but the future of the Iverk Show for generations to come.

As we celebrate 199 years of tradition, community spirit, and agricultural excellence, we honour those who made that future possible.

1930s Iverk Show Committee

1935 - Competitors in the Children's Riding Class

The Iverk Show, Piltown

Ireland’s oldest agricultural show embraces climate action

Kilkenny County Council’s Climate Action team have recorded a short video with the Iverk Agricultural Show, showcasing their success in energy efficiency and water conservation. The Iverk Show is one of 22 groups who received grant funding to undertake local climate actions under the Community Climate Action Fund Phase 1.

They were awarded €20,000 to install energy efficient heating and lighting in the building which accommodates Littlestars Pre-school Piltown. They also installed a 20,000-litre rainwater harvesting tank which will be used for animal care and grey water for toilets on show day (Saturday 23rd August 2025). The tank will also benefit the adjacent GAA

club as the toilets on site are shared by the show grounds and the GAA club. This will greatly reduce the reliance on mains water in the future. This project demonstrates how achievable it is for communities to take positive climate action to deliver local climate projects which benefit the local community. The video can be viewed on

Cathaoirleach Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh said “I admire and thank every community group that submitted an application for phase 1 of the Community Climate Action Fund. I congratulate the Iverk Agricultural Show and the other groups that have successfully completed their projects. Everyone should be taking ownership for climate action, even the smallest action can make a big difference. I would encourage community groups to apply for Phase 2 which is currently open for Expressions of Interest.”

the Climate Action page on Kilkenny County Council’s website or on You Tube under

Kilkenny County Council’s Community Climate Action Officer, Claire Prendergast said “Kilkenny County Council’s Climate Action Team are so proud of what the Iverk Show have achieved. They have delivered a project that is sustainable and will benefit the wider community in Piltown in the years to come. I hope this video will inspire other communities to apply for the Community Climate Action Fund and play their part in contributing to the national climate and energy targets.”

Phase 2 of the Community Climate Action Fund is now open for Expressions of Interest. Please refer to https://submit.link/3U5 for more details.

The Iverk Show Embraces Climate Action. Kilkenny County Council

Rainwater harvesting tank

ICMSA “perplexed” by delay in publishing Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming

The President of ICMSA has said that the continuing delays on the release of the Commission on Genera-

tional Renewal in Farming is becoming “as concerning as it is perplexing”. Kilkenny farmer Denis Drennan said

that the Commission’s findings were expected to be published at the end of June, nearly six weeks ago, and it

was now becoming obvious that whatever recommendations were brought forward or resulted from the Commis-

sion’s deliberations, could not be incorporated into Budget 2026.

The net effect of this delay, he continued, was the loss of another year, when it was more urgent than ever to address the most obvious obstacles to the generational renewal now emerging as the single most pressing concern all over the state and right across every sector.

“We can’t understand it; the Commission was reported to be on the verge of publishing its findings six weeks ago. What’s the delay? What’s the problem and why have we allowed the opportunity to at least make a start on these problems in Budget 2026 to slip by? It’s inexplicable and poor and the net effect is that we all – as a sector –have lost another whole year at precisely the time when this question of succession and generational renewal is emerging as critical and demanding immediate attention,” he said.

“We can’t get the next generation into farming, and we’ve all identified more-or-less the same problems in our various submissions made last Feb and March. We don’t have the time to lose and yet it looks very much like we’ve just lost effectively a whole year till we will be able to do something in a budget – the only material way of addressing some of the financial obstacles to generational renewal,” said Mr Drennan.

Mr Drennan said that every

single young farmer engaged with through the ICMSA Young Farmer Forum had laid out a list of obstacles to their entry into farming and all invariably started with ‘financial uncertainty’. He said that while ICMSA was very aware that not everything could be done in ‘one fell swoop’, it was imperative that a start be made and he pointed out that his association had topped their list of submissions to the Commission with an appeal to see Budget 2026 introduce a tool or scheme to deal specifically with the excessive income volatility that was putting off so many young people from considering a career in farming.

“There was a commitment made last year to look at this, and it’s the single biggest obstacle cited by the young people themselves. The Commission’s recommendations would have given great support to ICMSA’s efforts to get this into Budget 2026. But it looks like the findings of the Commission are going to be so late that it will be impossible for any of them to be taken into consideration for the Budget in October. ICMSA considers this a wasted opportunity, and we’d urge the Commission – even at this very late stage – to publish their findings so that we can try and convince the Government to adopt the most urgent and necessary measures aimed at generational renewal,” concluded Mr Drennan.

Denis Drennan on his farm at Dunbell just outside Kilkenny city

The Next Generation Iverk Show - these young people will continue the tradition of the Iverk Show, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents who have dedicated so much to the show over the years

Slow, painful death from starvation

To understand the limits of how little food the human body can endure and to get a better idea of how serious the situation is on the ground in Gaza, America’s PBS News spoke with Jeanette Bailey, the Global Practice Lead for Nutrition at the International Rescue Committee.

“Acute malnutrition is the physiological process that leads to starvation … many children, especially, never even reach that stage of starvation because they succumb to illness far earlier in the acute malnutrition process,” Bailey said.

Bailey explains the stages that lead to starvation– acute malnutrition, moderate acute malnutrition, severe acute malnutrition and complicated acute malnutrition–take time and do not happen immediately.

“Starvation is what happens in one person’s body when they don’t have enough to eat and they’re fighting infection and they become acutely malnourished. That’s the end stage of acute malnutrition.

“Famine is what happens when we see many people in a population experiencing starvation. So once we reach a certain threshold in a population, we then declare a famine,” Bailey said, adding that those were the conditions seen in Gaza right now, adding that “at least 30% of our children under age five are experiencing acute malnutrition”.

Dr Mohammed Mansour, the International Rescue Committee’s Senior Nutrition Manager on the ground

Climate change is so big and slow that it sometimes doesn’t seem real. But it’s still happening. The way we’re not dealing with climate change has changed. We’re no longer wilfully denying the mounting danger. We’re cheerfully ignoring it. In Denmark, as in much of northern Europe, temperatures in July and August now generally hover between 20 and 25°C (6877°F). Do bring an umbrella: long stretches of sunshine are still punctured by refreshing rains.

That’s pleasant compared to Mediterranean Europe, where the summer months are increasingly dry and unbearably hot, with temperatures regularly surpassing 40°C (104°F) and devastating wildfires a constant threat.

For now, the Danes and other northern Europeans are benefiting from sunnier summers (and a slow increase in “coolcations”). But climate change is not stopping.

How hot will the summers of the future get? Your future climate is already here.

in Gaza, echoed those observations.

“To be honest that the entire population now are starving

…now we reached to the fifth stage, which is famine, because now that most people cannot get access to food.”

Both Mansour and Bailey say that the food aid that is making its way into Gaza is not enough to combat the

Climate change: the future is here, right now

An interactive map, created at the University of Maryland Centre for Environmental Science, will tell you. It uses a statistical technique called climate analog mapping, the central assumption of which is that your location’s future climate is already here, except that it’s somewhere else.

Looking 60 years into the future, this map tool predicts the climate of

thousands of cities, towns, and suburbs in the 2080s by finding their climate analogs today. You can choose between two emission scenarios, also known as Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs), as identified by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

The high-emission scenario is SSP5-8.5, also known as the “business as usual” scenario. This is a

scope of starvation happening now.

According to the United Nations, more than 20,000 children were hospitalised in Gaza for malnutrition between April and mid July. Food and medical aid, therapeutic medicines and support to an entire health system is what’s necessary to stop short and long term impacts of the man-made famine happening in Gaza.

Meanwhile, with growing urgency, more US Jews urge Israel to ensure ample food deliveries to Gaza.

Nearly two years into the war in Gaza, the Israeli security cabinet has voted for yet another military takeover: the proposed takeover of Gaza City. The plan, which was initiated and pushed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu himself, arguably reveals more about his domestic political manoeuvering than evidence of any well-thought-out military strategy.

The plan was adopted despite the Israeli military leadership’s fierce objection and grave warnings it could both deepen the humanitarian crisis and endanger the remaining 50 hostages in Gaza., The major expansion of the war also comes against the backdrop of a fundamental erosion of support for Israel around the world, and a decline in internal public backing for the continuation of the war.

And yet, Netanyahu pushed his plan forward, as it has at least one unstated benefit: it gives him time to fight for

1.8°C (3.2°F). For each scenario, the map generates five potential outcomes, as well as an average.

Is climate analog mapping a good way to shock people into climate action? Perhaps not.

If you live in Denmark or other places far enough north, even the worst-case scenario sounds like an improvement. It’s only farther south that things get scary — and deadly.

his political survival. And with his current far-right coalition partners, that means prolonging the war. Time and again, Netanyahu’s allies, Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, have thwarted and aborted progress in ceasefire negotiations by threatening to collapse his government if the war were to end.

Netanyahu’s plan to besiege Gaza City falls short of what his coalition partners demand: Ben Gvir and Smotrich are pushing for a full occupation of the embattled enclave as a first step for rebuilding the Jewish settlements in Gaza and ultimately annexing the territory. It is also less than what Netanyahu himself had been selling ahead of the meeting.

In an interview on Thursday, Netanyahu told Fox News that Israel intends to take control of all of Gaza, as if he had made up his mind to fully occupy the territory. Instead, the Israeli leader chose to promote a phased plan, focusing only on Gaza City for the time being, without taking over other camps nearby, where many of the 20 remaining Israeli hostages are believed to be held captive. Netanyahu also intentionally set a relatively loose deadline for the beginning of the operation – in two months – leaving the door open for another diplomatic push for a ceasefire hostage deal and call the whole thing off. Now, his right-wing partners are fuming at the decision, charging that the plan isn’t enough and that only escalating the war will suffice.

a village in the Bourgogne region of France, about 500 km (310 miles) further northeast from Vernet-lesBains.

fossil-fuel- based future in which CO2 emissions triple by 2075.

From 2080, this would lead to an increase of the global average temperature by 4.4°C (8°F).

The reduced-emission scenario is SSP1-2.6. That’s a much more sustainable path, implying that we manage to cut CO2 emissions to net zero by 2075. In that scenario, the planet will warm by only about

The most extreme forecast of the five high-emission outcomes puts Copenhagen’s climate in the 2080s on a par with today’s climate in Vernet-les-Bains, so far south in France that it’s almost in Spain.

That would mean about 2,600 hours of sunshine a year, and very little rain.

The average of the five high-emission forecasts says Copenhagen’s summers 60 years from now will be 4.7°C (8.4°F) warmer and 10.4% drier than they are now, and its winters 4.6°C (8.4°F) warmer and 16.8% wetter.

That corresponds to today’s climate of Demigny,

If turning Denmark into a Nordic Napa Valley is the worst-case scenario, then what’s a better one? As the map tells, the more sustainable route would make Copenhagen’s summers just 1.6°C (3°F) warmer and 0.7% wetter. That’s similar to today’s Raddestorf in Lower Saxony, a region in northern Germany not known for its fine red wines. To be honest, most Danes would probably prefer the worst-case future. But what about those destinations farther south? In the high-emission scenario, 2080s Madrid will have the climate of Pedro Abad, a place just 275 km (171 miles) south of the Spanish capital. That may not seem like a lot, but it corresponds to summers 7.8°C (14.1°F). Meanwhile, Antarctica’s snow is turning green penguin poop and climate change are fuelling the spread of ‘snow algae’ down in the Antarctic Peninsula.

Report on back-to-school costs must be a wake-up call for government on need for cost-of-living package

BY NATASHA NEWSOME DRENNAN TD

has said the latest report from Barnardos, which highlights the pressure on parents to cover back-to-school costs, yet again lays bare the need for a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget.

She said the report must act as a wakeup call for government who remain oblivious to the huge stress and hardship facing workers and families across the state.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said:

“This report from Barnardos yet again lays bare the need for a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget.

“The report outlines that back-to-schools costs often reach up to €1,100 for secondary school and €725 for primary school students. Families are already struggling to keep their heads above water as the cost-of-living crisis

continues to spiral out of control, people simply cannot afford this annual financial blow.

“As the reports detailing the level of financial pressure on ordinary workers and families stack up, so too do the excuses from government as to why they won’t offer support.

“The children’s ombudsman confirmed to

an Oireachtas committee in recent weeks that child poverty has doubled in the last year.

The latest Barnardos report reveals that more than half of parents with school-aged children are concerned about back-to-school expenses. Uniforms and voluntary contributions are key worries, while parents of secondary school students

are increasingly troubled by the rising cost of digital devices.

“Parents are forced to use savings, take out loans, and cut back on other essentials to cover the costs.

A shocking 27% of secondary and 14% primary school parents said they had to use savings, while 15% and 8%, respectively, had to take out a loan or borrow from family

and friends.

“One secondary school parent outlined in the survey that they will not pay their gas and electric bill in August and will take out a loan and use instalments. They said ‘I will go into debt until March the following year until it is all paid back, then it repeats again in August. My worries are if I can keep this up year after year”.

“It does not have to be this way. At a time when the state has record surpluses of €23.7 billion, to have families being pushed to the brink to cover basic back-to-school costs is scandalous.

“This government has the resources to ensure that families are not left in situations like this. However, they seem content on ignoring the stress and hardship so many are experiencing and pretending that the cost-of-living crisis is over.

“Sinn Féin has a plan to make back-to-school costs more affordable. We would put money back in your pocket with a double child benefit payment in September and by doubling the clothing and footwear allowance.

“Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael need to get their heads out of the sand and wake up to the realities that people are facing. The cost-of-living crisis has not gone away.

“The government must come to its senses and commit to a cost-of-living package in this year’s budget.”

Sinn Féin TD Natasha Newsome Drennan

Food & Drink

Roast broccoli & sesame ramen noodle bowls Come Dine WithMe

Frying pan

filo tart

Prep: 20 Mins

Cook: 40 mins

Serves: 4

Make this filo tart in a frying pan for a fuss-free dinner. Peas, crème fraîche, butter beans, courgette, feta and mint make up the fabulous filling.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 4 spring onions sliced

• 1 courgette halved lengthways and sliced

• 100g frozen peas

• 100g sugar snap peas or mangetout, trimmed

• 400g can butter beans drained

• 150ml reduced-fat crème fraîche

• ½ small bunch of mint leaves picked and chopped

• ½ lemon zested

• 3 sheets filo pastry

• 1 egg beaten

• 25g feta crumbled

• salad leaves to serve (optional)

Method

STEP 1

Heat ½ tbsp oil in a 20cm-wide skillet or ovenproof frying pan, and

fry the spring onions and courgettes for 5 mins until lightly golden. Stir in the frozen peas and sugar snap peas, and cook for a few minutes until the peas have defrosted. Tip in the butter beans, crème fraîche and 50ml water. Stir, then bubble for 2-3 mins until the sauce coats the greens. Transfer to a bowl, then stir in the mint and lemon zest. Season.

STEP 2

Clean the pan and heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Use 1 tbsp oil to brush the filo sheets all over, then stack them up. Add the filo stack to the pan, pressing it into the base and leaving plenty of overhang. You can cut the filo sheets in half, then use them to line the pan, if you find that easier.

STEP 3

Mix the egg into the greens and

crème fraîche mixture, then spoon over the stack of filo. Scatter over the feta, then scrunch up the overhanging filo around the sides to make a crust. Brush the exposed filo with the remaining oil.

STEP 4

Return the pan to the heat and cook for 5 mins to crisp the filo base. Transfer to the oven and bake for 20-25 mins until the filo is fully

crisp and golden, and the filling has set. Cut into wedges and serve with some salad leaves, if you like.

RECIPE TIPS

To make this dish even easier (and save you cleaning the pan), omit the egg, brush the filo sheets with oil, scrunch them up and use to cover the filling before baking. You’ll have a filo-topped pie instead of a tart.

Prep: 25 mins

Cook: 30 mins

Serves: 2

Let broccoli take centre stage in our ramen noodle bowls. Versatile, easy to cook and nutritious, it’s especially delicious when roasted until crisp.

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 head of broccoli broken into florets

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp sesame seedscplus extra to serve

• 2 eggs

• 200g ramencor dried egg noodles

• 2 spring onions sliced

• 2 radishes thinly sliced

• crispy chilli oil to serve (optional)

For the dressing

• 3 tbsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp brown miso

• pinch of chilli flakes

• 2 tsp brown sugar

• 1-2 limes juiced (to taste)

• 1 small garlic clove crushed

Method

STEP 1

Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas

8. Toss the broccoli with the sesame oil, sesame seeds and some salt, then spread out on a baking tray. Roast for about 15-20 mins until charred and tender.

STEP 2

Meanwhile, bring a pan of water to the boil. Add the eggs and cook for 6 mins 30 seconds. Remove using a slotted spoon and lower into ice water to cool for 3 mins before peeling the shells. Mix all the dressing ingredients in a bowl.

STEP 3

Cook the noodles following pack

instructions, then drain and toss with the dressing.

STEP 4

Divide between two serving bowls and top each with a halved egg, the spring onions, radishes and charred broccoli. Finish with extra sesame seeds and crispy chilli oil, if you like.

Recipe tip

Chill it

Broccoli should be kept in the fridge, especially in the warmer months. Keep your broccoli in the lower part of your fridge at the front, with the florets pointing towards you so they don’t get too cold at the back. Broccoli stores for up to 10 days in the fridge.

Freeze it

Break the broccoli into florets and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to freezable bags and store for up to three months.

One Alien: Earth, phone home!

One Alien: Earth star has likened his character to a really old iPhone. Babou Ceesay says Morrow is an “iPhone 1 in a world of iPhone 20s”. The cyborg is one of many synthetics that fans will see in the show. It’s not such a bizarre comparison when you learn more about Morrow. Indeed, originally he was 100% human but, without spoiling how or why, he’s turned into a cyborg by the Weyland-Yutani Corporation, the nefarious multinational whose shadow has loomed large over the Alien franchise since it hatched in 1979.

With Morrow having been given a new lease of life by Weyland-Yutani, Ceesay agreed that a “blind loyalty” to the megacorp runs through the character’s veins – or, whatever passes for veins in individuals who are part-human, partmachine.

However, over the course of the Hulu and Disney+ TV suggests that Morrow’s allegiances will be tested “to the limit”, and there are parallels between

the struggle his character endures as his human and synthetic halves vie for supremacy, and issues around the development of AI in the real world.

“I love that [observation],” Ceesay says.. “About the blind loyalty... I’ve been thinking about it more and more. I wish I’d thought of it at the time, but there’s a pressure we’re all under now. It almost feels like you’re, you can never be enough and you have to just keep levelling up.

Ceesay continues: “You know, Boy Kavalier [ played by Samuel Blenkin] has invented synthetic bodies with human consciousness.

That’s the next level, right?

Morrow’s also [an] enhanced [being] but it’s like ‘Okay, if that’s what I am, I have to go even further in terms of my usefulness, to still be relevant, [and] to still have a reason to keep existing.

“I don’t know how far we [humanity] are going to go [in the real world],” he says. “If you’re not really that connected to AI – I mean, maybe, that’s a good thing.

“We can all go back to living in cabins! But, seriously, are we all going to just keep pushing ourselves to the limit? I think that’s something Morrow keeps asking himself in this show.”

Each episode of Noah Hawley’s brilliant series opens with what could be called an overture. As the title takes shape (much like the original, groundbreaking Ridley Scott film), images flash across the screen as a sort of twisted Previously On.

But they also sometimes contain new data, much like a composer integrating previous themes while also previewing what’s to come.

Set to an atonal, unsettling score, these overtures are designed to get your attention.

Put the phone down. Settle in for something that’s not what you’re used to watching on TV or streaming services. Something that feels a bit alien.

Hawley, the creator of Fargo and of Legion has done what only a few creators before have been ca-

pable of doing: expanding on a well-known property in a way that makes it feel new again while also not betraying what fans already know and love.

Working with a razorsharp team of writers and craftspeople, Hawley delivers an eight -episode first season that somehow marries the philosophical depth that fans of Prometheus admired with the intense action and bonechilling imagery of James Cameron’s Aliens.

He takes the essence of three art forms — the film world of one of the biggest sci-fi franchises of all time, the structure of episodic television, and even the literary foundation of, believe it or not, Peter Pan — and makes something that feels like nothing else on television.

This is a show that takes such massive swings that the first few hours are almost disorienting. But once you get on its wavelength, you won’t want it to end.

Streaming on Disney +

Now the reboot of TJ Hooker is being planned

Netflix is developing a feature film reboot of T.J. Hooker, the classic ‘80s police procedural series which starred Star Trek legend William Shatner in the title role as a police sergeant and Vietnam War veteran who returns to uniformed duty to rid the streets of crime after the death of his partner. TJ Hooker originally premiered n 1982, running for four seasons before cancellation, although it was subsequently picked up by CBS

for a final season, coming to an end in 1986.

Alongside Shatner, the cast included Adrian Zmed, Richard Herd, James Darren and Heather Locklear, pictured here with Shatner.

The Hooker movie is being produced by Sophie Cassidy and Aaron Spelling

They have been in talks with William Shatner [pictured with Locklear], and the expectation is that he will be involved with the reboot in some capacity.

that are worth you watching on

1. The Platform

One of Netflix’s biggest international success stories, you may have heard of The Platform (2019) before.

It’s a streaming original that deserves its level of reputation and recognition because it pairs together an intriguing sci-fi idea with a fascinating exploration of human nature, and for those just after a descent into some savage place, you’ll find exactly what you’re craving.

The Platform is set in a future prison that is comprised of a series of individual levels arranged in a seemingly never-ending tower block.

Every day, a concrete platform of food is slowly lowered down the block, with the people at the top eating like royalty, and those down below left with only scraps.

We focus on a man named Goreng (Iván Massagué) as he attempts to survive this dystopian jail.

2, Calibre

This small-scale but intense movie will have you racking your brain in an attempt to figure out how the two lead characters were going to get out of the terrifying predicament they find themselves in. Calibre (2018) is completely bone-chilling, and you will love it.

3. The Perfection

One of the most skin-crawling dark thrillers, quite literally. There’s a highly disturbing sequence where a character believes bugs are bursting out of her arm. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg, in this warped trip that goes to several bleak and very gruesome places. It’s not a thriller movie for the faint hearted, with plenty of surprising twists to discover.

4. The Wonder One of Florence Pugh’s most overlooked movies, The Wonder (2022) is a period thriller based on the 2019 novel of the same name by our own Emma Donoghue.

At its core is a compelling mystery, and as it progresses, the darker side of faith comes to the surface as Pugh’s character, an English nurse named Elizabeth, struggles to convince the residents of a small Irish town that what they believe to be a miracle might not be quite what it seems.

5. Hannibal

Imagine trying to follow Anthony Hopkins’ portrayal as Hannibal Lecter, a man who loves his beans, chianti, and human flesh. Yet Mads Mikkelsen’s performance as the cerebral cannibal in Bryan Fuller’s Hannibal might be the best version yet. Not only does he unsettle and beguile in equal measure, but the rest of the cast also sizzle like a steak on the grill.

Newpark community comes together in faith and fellowship

On a pleasant summer evening, 150 people gathered on the Upper Green, Newpark for an outdoor community mass, celebrating their shared faith and fraternity. The event was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of community and the devotion that defines St John’s Parish.

A Joyful Celebration

The mass, con-celebrated by Monsignor Dan Carroll & Monsignor Michael Ryan, was filled with music, prayer, and reflection. The late evening sunshine cast a warm glow over the assembled crowd. The atmosphere was one of joy and reverence, as the community came together to worship and give thanks.

A Sense of Unity

The outdoor setting allowed for a sense of freedom and expansiveness, as the congregation assembled on

the immaculately prepared green. Emphasising the sense of unity and belonging that pervaded the gathering, many attendees chatted and greeted one another before and after the mass.

Music and Reflection

The music was provided by the parish choir, whose uplifting hymns added to the celebratory atmosphere. The homily, by student priest Eoin Madigan, reflected on the value of community and the importance of promoting shared faith in daily endeavours.

A Special Occasion

The outdoor mass was a special occasion for many attendees, who appreciated the opportunity to worship together in a unique and beautiful setting. "It's wonderful to see so many people coming together in faith," said long-time resident Marie Malone. "It's a reminder that

we're not alone, and that we're all part of something bigger than ourselves."

A Lasting Impact Gathering after the mass,

many availed of the light refreshments provided by Mary Pierce, Margo Deegan and Mary Wong, As the congregation dispersed the words and fervent wish of Monsignor

Dan Carroll echoed through the stillness of the evening “may this outdoor community mass be a powerful reminder of the importance of faith, fellowship, and

community, and may its Christian impact foster a sense of peace, love and joy within Newpark and within the wider St John’s Parish community.”

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

CLUB LOTTO

The Lotto results for 5th August were as follows. There was no Jackpot winner.The numbers drawn were 5, 17, 24. The following received €30 Liam Ryan, John Corr, Willie Carrigan, Mícheál Denieffe and Dan McDonald. Thanks for your continued support & best of luck.

TOUGH LOSS

Clara senior hurlers experienced a heartbreaking loss in Ballyraggett when going under to a determined Tullaroan side on a 0-24 to 0-22 scoreline. Clara made most of the running and were never led until there were 55 minutes on the clock but they visibly tired when it mattered and Tullaroan fully deserved their victory.

Early on it was all Clara and they had four quickfire points on the board before Tullaroan had caught their breath. Dara Glynn pointed straight from the throw in within 9 seconds and his brother Rory then added two and Chris Bolger accounted for the fourth. As well as that the game had to be stopped after Clara’s second point to allow for county star Tommy Walsh to be stretchered off the field with what looked like a season ending knee injury. Let’s hope Tommy makes a fast recovery. Ominously Mossy Keoghan opened Tullaroan’s account but Clara played some terrific hurling in the first half and led 0-14 to 0-11 at the break. A feature of the half was some spectacular catches by Davy Barcoe and Paul Cody from puck outs but both Gearoid Dunne and Bill Gaffney almost matched them in that regard. Clara fluffed their lines with a couple of decent goal chances just before the interval and these were to prove crucial to the result. Clara started the second half well with two points from Joe Power and Rory Glynn. They kept Tullaroan at arm’s length for most of the half but Tullaroan are a grizzled, seasoned outfit and they gradually wore Clara down. Bill Walton landed some huge scores and when the need was greatest Mossy Keoghan delivered the form that he has been showing all year. However an improving young Clara side should also take great heart from their performance as they are certainly going in the right direction.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Conor O Shea, Matt Kenny, Shane Staunton 0-1. Martin O Connell, Jack Langton, Harry Boyle 0-1. Dara Glynn 0-2, David Langton. Conor Hoyne 0-7, 0-4f, Paul Cody 0-1, David Barcoe 0-2. Rory Glynn 0-4, Chris Bolger 0-1, Joe Power 0-3, 0-1f. Subs used Liam Ryan, James Bergin, Lester Ryan.

JUNIORS BEATEN

Clara Junior hurlers were well beaten by a very slick Thomastown side in Clara. The Grennan men bossed this from the start and led 2-9 to 0-6 at halftime. Most of the Clara scores came from frees while Thomastown scored freely from play and showed the strong panel that they have available to them. Team - Killian Phelan, Paddy Bolger, Zach Lawlor, Tom Ryan. Hugh Kelly, Conor Cody, Philip Carrigan. John Murphy 0-1, James Bergin 0-8f. Joe Connolly 0-3, Lester Ryan, Jake Maher. Daniel Ryan, Ciarán Prendergast, Sean Carrigan. Subs used Conor Hoyne 0-2, 0-1 x 65, Evan Whearty.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

RACE NIGHT

O’Loughlin Gaels’ annual fundraiser Race Night at Kilkenny Greyhound Track takes place on August 22nd. All proceeds go toward development of Club facilities. Currently the new Ball Wall and Astroturf area is well on the way to completion while progress continues to be made on the proposed purchase and planning for the club’s new pitches in Dunmore. The Club tries every year to call to every house in our parish to ask for support. If the callers missed you or if you’re away on foreign soil, you can support the Club by buying a ticket by clicking on the link: https://www.idonate.ie/crowdfunder/ OLGRaceNight. Every €10 results in one entry into our grand draw. Thank you again for your continued support.

ONE CLUB DAY AT O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

Two years ago, O’Loughlin’s GAA and camogie clubs came together as one club and this weekend, that unity shone through at an exciting Under 10 blitz. With teamwork, determination, and plenty of smiles, over 400 young players from clubs all over

the country showed off their skills. They encouraged one another, and displayed brilliant sportsmanship throughout the day. O’Loughlin’s are so proud of how they represented the club, united in spirit, effort, and fun!

Big thank you to all the club volunteers and everyone who helped make this possible. The clubs who participated were from Galway, Tipperary, Waterford, Dublin, Offaly, Kildare, Carlow and Kilkenny.

UNDER 12 SUCCESS

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 boys represented the club in the brilliantly organised Pat Molloy competition in sunny Tullaroan on Saturday last. The boys played some brilliant hurling all day and managed to come away with the Division One honours. Well done to all involved.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE REPRESENTATIVES

Well done to O’Loughlin’s camogie players Millie Lennon, Chloe Collins , Stephanie Cooney and Laurence Daly who played with the Kilkenny Blacks and the Kilkenny Stripes teams in the Under 14 National Blitz. A great honour for all to wear the Black and Amber. Well done girls!

SENIOR LEAGUE CONTINUES

O’Loughlin Gaels has a good win over Lisdowney in Canon Kearn’s Park in Castlecomer in their second round game in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League when they registered a high score in a good display.

Next weekend sees a third round local derby game against neighbours Dicksboro in Nowlan Park on Saturday at 1.30pm. Support essential.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated August 5th. The numbers drawn were 9, 15, 22, 25 and the bonus number was 21. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com

Promotors Draw: 1 Tommy Coyne c/o K Cleere. 2. Elleen and Polly c/o E Kinchella. 3. Rebecca Cleere c/o K Cleere. 4. Dan O’Driscoll. 5. Niamh Maher c/o B Maher. 6. Johnny Phelan.7. Kieran Maher c/o B Maher. 8. Alan Rhatigan c/o Online. 9. Lisa Buckley c/o Online. 10. Olivia Geoghegan. Thank you for your continued support.

GOWRAN

GOWRAN AC

Congrats to Pat Lennon on the incredible milestone of reaching 400 park runs in Kilkenny.

James Kelsey made his National Senior debut last Saturday at the Morton stadium, Santry. This was a big step up in age for James, finishing 5th in a highly competitive event with a great jump of 1.80, his seasons best. No doubt James gained value experience from a great day.

Sarah Mulrooney was back in action in the Aquathon in Ballinakill, running a steady and consistent 1000m race, to finish in 3rd place in the U13 girls, also a step up in age, great going Sarah.

Tommy Kelly one of the senior members was part of an incredible team of mountaineers who not only took on the Ireland 4 Peak Challenge, but set a new Irish record of 30:22:38.

YOUNG IRELANDS GAA

Gowran, Pride of Place Nominee. Gowran has been nominated for a Pride of Place Award for Inclusivity.

On Friday, August 15th at 9:30am, the judges will arrive to see the amazing work the community does to promote inclusiveness. They’ll visit the new playground, GAA pitch, and Dalton House. Please fill the pitch with people of all ages, sports, and walks of

life to show how proud we are of our village. Meet: GAA Pitch at 9:30am sharp. The Judges will be on site for 40 minutes.

GOWRAN ON THE MOVE

A tennis camp for ages 7 to 12 will take place from 18th August. Price €70. Contact Ciara on 087 7673632

GOWRAN PARK GOLF

Well done to Gowran Park boys U15 team and panel. Gowran came out winners in their last 16 match away to Millicent Golf club. It came down to the last game and to the last hole to find a winner in a close but sporting match. This is the furthest the under 15’s have reached in this competition and they now play Waterford in the Leinster quarter final. Full Panel: Dara Leamy. Harry Concannon. Eoghan Morrisey. Dylan Drennan. Darragh Carroll. Eanna Costello. Hugh Leacy. Lee Harkin. Manager John Leamy. Thanks to Millicent for a great contest and their excellent facilities.

FRESHFORD

ANTHONY COLCLOUGH JUNIOR (RIP)

The people of Freshford and surrounds were shocked and numbed last weekend to learn of the tragic passing of Anthony Colclough Junior late of Tigfeaghna, Freshford. Anthony was youngest son of Anthony and Frances Colclough. Predeceased by his grandmother Mary Colclough, his grandfather Mick Cleere his uncles Cathal and Charlie, and his granduncles Michael and the recently deceased Joe Morrissey and Harry Colclough. He was in his late teens, a widely known and very popular young lad in the area with many friends and the crowds that turned out to pay their respects to him showed how well he was liked and held in esteem amongst all. He was a keen darts and pool player and he loved his dogs and going hunting. His funeral mass took place in Freshford Church, followed by burial in St.Lachtains Cemetery. He is deeply mourned by his father Anthony, mother, Frances, his brothers Martin and Ciaran, sister Tamara, her partner Kyle, nephew Fiachra, grandmother, grandfather, uncles, aunts, cousins and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

NEW SAUNA

The long awaited sauna is now up and running at the Millennium Park and is creating big interest. The new facility opened on 2nd August and you can book your 40mins session online. Thanks goes to Freshford Council for all the help along the way.

GAA NEWS

Development works continue in Páirc Lachtaín, this past week has seen the completion of phase one of our fencing upgrade project. A new fence and access gates have been installed around the main pitch by Beckett Landscaping. This fence replaces the old railing and will completely enclose the playing area. Works will continue over the coming weeks.

St Lachtain’s Intermediates bounced back from last week’s opening round defeat with a win over Young Irelands in round two on Saturday last in Muckalee. St Lachtain’s got off to a poor start, conceding three early goals and found themselves trailing 0-2 to 3-0 after 11 minutes. However, the Freshford men didn’t give in and went into the halftime break leading by

O’Loughlin Gaels’ Ollie Morrissey and Robbie Geoghegan winners of the 60x30 Junior Softball Nationals KilkennyCarlow Boys Under 13 Doubles.

O’Loughlin Gaels Boys Under 10 team, Division One winners at Tullaroan GAA club’s Pat Molloy competition recently.

2 points. A fine second half display and a goal from Cian Dawson saw them hold out for the win despite a strong finish from Young Irelands. Final score was St Lachtain’s 2-18 Young Irelands 3-13.

Team: D Brennan, J Bergin, C Bergin, Conor Donnelly, P Donnelly, B Kennedy, C Hickey, Alan Rafter, B Quinn, C O’Leary, P Killeen, Cian Donnelly, D Maher, C Dawson, L Hickey. Subs Used: J Fitzpatrick, C Dalton, C Power, S Dawson, P Campion, J Hickey

St Lachtain’s Junior Fs were defeated by Mullinavat in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Championship semi-final on Sunday morning last in Larchfield. The game was evenly contested throughout with St Lachtain’s looking like they had qualified for the final until a Mullinavat goal 2 minutes from the end forced the game into extra time. Unfortunately, Mullinavat’s fresher legs proved to be the difference between the sides in extra time. It finished St Lachtain’s 2-15 Mullinavat 2-18

Team R Dowling, J Denieffe, F Tobin, J Cantwell, C Bowden, S Burke, L Phelan, C McCabe, C McGree, M Durnan, D Killeen, J O’Connor, B Dermody, M Nolan, S Counihan. Subs: J Doheny, K Dalton, M Murphy, J Dalton, L White.

The Intermediates continue their league campaign on Sunday next when they take on Carrickshock in Danesfort at 3.30pm.

The inaugural Johnny Kavanagh Memorial Tournament took place in Páirc Lachtaín last Saturday evening. U14 teams from Galmoy/Windgap, Camross (Laois), and Passage (Waterford) took part. The hosts won the cup competition while Camross took the shield competition. Congratulations go to Max O’Neill who was named player of the tournament. There was a great turn out on the evening and thanks goes to the Kavanagh family for sponsoring the tournament.

St Lachtain’s U12’s took part in the Pat Molly Tournament in Tullaroan last weekend. The boys defeated Lisdowney, Bennettsbridge and Graigue Ballycallan to reach the cup final. Unfortunately a strong and skillful O’Loughlin Gaels team defeated the St Lachtain’s boys in the final. Well done to the boys for getting so far against very strong competition.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Aine Farrell, Kilkenny Street and all her family on the death of her little five year old niece Katie last week. Sympathy is also extended to Donal Heaphy, Cooleshall, Freshford and all his family on the recent death of his nephew Albert Lane Team Co Galway

SOCCER

Freshford Town AFC membership is now open for 2025/2026 season, football for all ages and levels. See all fees for boys and girls and junior players online. New members always welcome. Pleases register early to help form teams. Volunteers welcome for coaching, admin support.Safeguarding and coaching courses available.

FUNDRAISER

A special Ed Sheeran / Elton John tribute night fundraiser night will be held in Kavanaghs Bar on Saturday 23rd August from 9pm.With all proceeds in aid of Prague House. Tickets are €10 each and can be obtained from Prague House, Kavanaghs Bar or outside Mace on Friday next.

CAMOGIE

Well done to two young local camogie girls Eimear Murphy and Olivia Marnell who were part of Kilkenny U14 stripes who won the national blitz at the weekend.

SPLIT THE POT

July’s Split the Pot proceeds went to Freshford Boxing club and the latest winner was Tadgh O’Flaherty who won €80. Thanks to all for your support. Envelopes are just €2 each and can be purchased at any of the local pubs or businesses and the winner gets half the pot. Revolut is also available on 08330411011 but remember to include your name and address.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

EGM North Kilkenny Wheelchair Association hold their upcoming EGM on Wednesday 20th August at 7.30pm in the Avalon Inn, Castlecomer. All are welcome to attend.

BRIDGE

Freshford Bridge club will host Open Summer Bridge in Threecastles Hall each Monday at 7.30pm all bridge players welcome.

TIDY TOWNS

The Committee are busy at the minute cleaning up and painting and would ask all local residents and visitors to the village to support their application by

doing your part where you live or visit. They would welcome all painting, cleaning, litter picks, planting for pollinators and all activities that enhance our beautiful village.

Tidy town’s volunteers meet each Wednesday evening in the village so please come along for a chat and to lend a hand to your community if you can spare an hour.

LOOP CAFE

The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter. So why not support your own local café. You could meet a friend for a chat and cuppa or some lovely homemade food. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

PARISH NEWS

Mass times have been rescheduled for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan as follows: Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan .7.30pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe,Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1,2,3 basis. There will be no weekday masses for the summer months and it will return in September. Fr. Liam Taylor PP Ballycallan has taken on administrative and pastoral duties in Freshford for the moment. Freshford will be clustered with Tullaroan, Ballycallan and Fr.Liam is co ordinator of the cluster until August. You can contact Fr.Liam on 086 8180954. Fr. Tony O’Connor has been offering masses in our parishes for past few weeks. With the recent clerical changes in the diocese Fr Mark Condon has been appointed PP for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan.and will take over in late August. 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 done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

CHOIR

The parish choir are taking a well-deserved break for the summer months and will resume in September.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

INTERMEDIATE LEAGUE

A hectic weekend of hurling and camogie fixtures was capped when the Intermediate team got the better of Tullogher-Rosbercon,1-20 to 0-14 in their 2nd round league/championship fixture in sunny Thomastown on Sunday afternoon. A bright opening saw Stephen Manogue shoot over a point in the 1st minute after which James Stephens extended their lead at 0-06 to 0-02 after just 10 minutes with points by Tadhg O’Dwyer (3pts) Cian Kenny and Niall Mullins. All the while Tullogher kept in touch with a run of points to level the game for the third time at 0-08 each at the 26th minute. In the 29th minute team captain Niall Mullins was unlucky that his strike for goal rebounded off the goalpost but minutes later a fine Luke Scanlon effort gave James Stephens a marginal 0-09 to 0-08 lead at the break. Tullogher levelled proceedings immediately on the resumption but James Stephens in a period of dominance pushed ahead at 0-13 to 0-09 before Stephen Manogue received a pass from Niall Mullins to crash the sliothar to the net for the game’s defining score in the 9th minute. The strong showing was on the back of an unforgiving defence in which Luke Murphy, Niall Delaney, Ben Lawlor in front of the dependable Sean Manogue in goal gave little away to their opponents. When needed, midfielders Oisin Bateman (0-01) and Jamie O’Keeffe (0-01) were always on hand to support the half backline confidently led by Cian Kenny who managed to shoot two long range points over the game. Up front hard grafting Tadhg O’Dwyer excelled from frees and play (0-06), with support from Niall Mullins (0-02), Luke Scanlon (0-04) and Stephen Manogue (1-02) and with the sensible use of substitutes Ed Lauhoff and Eoin Guilfoyle who also got on the scoresheet James Stephens forged further ahead for a convincing 1-20 to 0-14 victory. Next up a 3rd round fixture against Black and Whites on Saturday at 3.30p.m, in UPMC Nowlan Park.

RACE NITE

Despite the unavoidable counter attractions of two hurling and a junior camogie league final, coordinator Riche Manogue reports that the Doggie Nite at Kilkenny Greyhound track on Friday evening

was well attended by club members, supporters and sponsors. On the night there were seven races, the highlight of which was the Georgie Leahy Memorial race in memory of the late Sean Leahy, a loyal servant of the James Stephens G.A.A. club and a lifelong greyhound racing enthusiast. The race was won by Lemon Hidalgo owned by Tom Lennon. Also, fittingly on the night the last race was won by a dog owned by The B Boys -- the club’s 1950/60’s legendary forward Fess Brennan and his sons Philly and Michael and trained by Georgie’s son Tom Leahy. Our thanks to all who supported the fun event the proceeds from which will help fund the ongoing development projects in Larchfield and at Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan.

CAMOGIE SUCCESS

On Friday evening, a youthful James Stephens lineup gave an impressive performance of teamwork, pace and skill to claim the 2025 Junior “C” camogie league title against a gallant Mooncoin side on their home ground. Playing against the breeze the Village girls settled into the game with early scores from Jenna Larkin, Mia Dunne and Roisin Leahy to open a 0-03 to 0-00 lead after 5 minutes. An unfortunate collision between a Mooncoin player resulted in The Village goalkeeper Lucy McGrath having to leave the field, necessitating Jenna Larkin to take over between the posts. Mooncoin came more into the game closing the gap at 0-05 to 0-03 but James Stephens responded with a run of points from Roisin Leahy, Hannah Joyce and Lucy Coomey and forcing the Mooncoin netminder into a double save to keep them in contention. As the game neared half time, Mooncoin struck back with two quick fire goals but Roisin Leahy responded with a smart point to give The Village a narrow 0-10 to 2-03 lead at the break. It was nip and tuck in the early minutes of the 2nd half but the James Stephens girls received a timely boost in the 33rd minute when a Roisin Leahy free from the sideline went straight to the net. The Mooncoin girls continued to resist and when a mix up in the Village defence allowed the southern club team through for a goal the match was back in the melting pot. From there the Village girls rose to the challenge and with a point from Lucy Coomey, four from substitute Laura Leahy and two from Roisin Leahy the James Stephens girls justifiable claimed the title at the end of an enthralling contest between two very committed teams. Great credit is due to the management team of Philly Larkin, Tobias White and Derrick Brennan for masterminding this county final success which augurs well for the future of camogie in the club. The winning panel was Lucy McGrath, Ciara McDonald, Kerri Hennessy, Sarah Kenny, Roisin O’Sullivan, Tara McGuire, Niamh Leahy, Anna Bergin (Capt), Molly Burke, Mia Dunne, Hannah Joyce, Cady Boyle, Roisin Leahy, Jenna Larkin, Lucy Coomey, Emily Lauhoff, Niamh O’Hara, Yoma Etefari, Laura Leahy, Maeve White, Aoibh Lawlor, Molly Phelan.

JUNIOR LEAGUE

After their record goal scoring exploits of last weekend against Clara the junior hurlers slipped to a disappointing 0-18 to 0-10 defeat at the hands of Lisdowney on Friday evening on their well-presented home ground. It took until the 5th minute for the impressive wing back Paddy Keogh to register the first score for James Stephens after Lisdowney had opened with a 2-point lead. Failing to take advantage of a mild breeze James Stephens struggled to stay with their opponents despite quality point scoring from Mikey Drennan (3pts), Sean Casey (2pts), and a single point from Fionn Cody. Rock solid defending by Dinny Stapleton, Dara Behan, and Eoin Deely, in particular, plus a brave save by goalkeeper Daniel Power in the 15th minute were important in keeping the Village in contention against a well-balanced opposition. The teams were level on three occasions over the half but Lisdowney gained the advantage with three points over the closing four minutes for a 0-10 to 0-07 half time lead. James Stephens started strongly in the 2nd half with a Fionn Cody point in the first minute but three missed goals chances in the first 10 minutes largely put paid to the visitors chances as the free scoring Lisdowney surged ahead registering 8 points to James Stephens 3 scores over the final 30 minutes for a comprehensive 0-18 to 0-10 home victory.

JUNIOR D CHAM’SHIP

The Junior “D” hurlers continued their revival after a disappointing first round display with a brilliant 2-11 to 1-13 win over Barrow Rangers in their championship quarter-final fixture in Paulstown on Monday evening. Playing against a strong wind, James O’Shea set the ball rolling for James Stephens with a bullet to the net in the first play of the game. Defending strongly with Sam Larkin, Shane Campion,

Jamie Peters and Liam Fennelly to the fore and with impressive long range point scores from Adam Butler the Village went in to the break only a point in arrears. Throughout the 2nd half with a high work rate and strong tackling by forwards, Tayo Bakare and Paddy Lacey, scores from Bill Lahart and a timely Sean Adams goal pushed James Stephens into a narrow lead. To secure the hard-won victory over the closing minutes some inspired defending led by Josh O’Rourke and Liam Fennelly was required to ward off the persistent challenges of the home club. Much credit is due to joint managers Shane Campion and Brendan Lee for the turnaround in the team’s fortunes which has brought them to an unexpected championship semi-final decider. Unfortunately, the good news story came to an end with a comprehensive 2-17 to 0-11 at the hands of Mooncoin in the semi-final fixture in Inistioge on Sunday afternoon. Nevertheless, well done to all on a positive championship campaign.

U-14 “A” LEAGUE FINAL

The U-14 hurlers captured the U-14 Roinn “A” League final to complete a unique league double for the club, the “B” team having won the Roinn “D” title against the same opposition just a fortnight ago. The final in MW Hire Dunmore Park against Mooncoin produced a rip roaring contest between two evenly matched teams in which defences totally dominated play at the end of which they couldn’t be separated despite 22 minutes of extra time. In normal time it took a long range delivery from a free by Henry Phelan in the 33rd minute to send the game into extra time at 1-10 each. At the end of a nerve tingling 22 minutes of extra time the teams remained deadlocked at 3-14 to 2-17. The goal scorers for James Stephens were Conor Knox (17min), and Paddy Larlin (6mins in extra time) and Henry Phelan (1min in 2nd half extra time). With the title having to be decided by a penalty shootout, goalkeeper James Butler became the hero with two vital penalty saves, Henry Phelan and Paddy Larkin having earlier struck the net for a 2-1 victory. The winning combination was James Butler, Jack Hennessy, Jack Ryan, Art Cowhig, Aidan Malone, Henry Phelan, Conor O’Hara, Joe Hanrahan (Capt), Codie Owens, J.J.Fogarty, Oisin Brennan, Conor Knox, Yehor Ahalakov, Paddy Larkin, Donal Power and substitute Ashton Maher. The result was a huge triumph for the bainisteoir, Shane O’Connor and selectors Eoin Larkin, Conor O’Dwyer, Bryan Duggan, Michael Fogarty and Diarmuid O’Dowd who masterminded both county league victories. Amid the jubilation of victory team mentors and supporters acknowledge that it was unfair to young players having given so much over almost 90 minutes of a highly competitive hurling final to have a county title decided by a penalty shoot-out, but that’s the rule!

JERSEY ON TOUR

Holiday makers are asked to include a club jersey/ leisure top in their luggage to facilitate the posting of a photo of themselves wearing the club colours from whatever foreign destination they are residing in to the club shop’s supervisor. Breda Manogue at bmanogue36@gmail.com for a competition to see how far in the world the Red and Green colours have travelled during the holiday season. Entries must be in before 1st September. The prize of a € 50 voucher from the club shop will be awarded to the winning entry.

LIBRARY NEWS

On Tuesday morning 19th August the Loughboy library will host a talk by local historian Larry Scanlon on the patriot, James Stephens -- A Life and Legacy-- as part of Heritage Week. James Stephens was a Fenian and founding member of the IRB was born in Kilkenny in 1825. Attendees will learn about the patriot’s life and the history of James Stephens Barracks. As places are limited, phone the library at 056 7794176 or email loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie to book a place.

LOTTO

This week’s numbers were 14: 18: 27: 29. There was no winner. Next week’s jackpot will be €9,600. The € 40 consolation winners were Ber O’Leary, Antoinette Hickey, Vicky Cahill, Micheal O Mairtin, and Joe Marsella.

BENNETTSBRIDGE

EXHIBITION LAUNCH

On Friday night in the Community Centre, members of the Bennettsbridge Art Group launched their 2025 ‘Bridge Collective exhibition. The months of work involved in the paintings paid off resulting in a very impressive collection. The night was made special by the presence of Senator Malcolm Noonan who agreed to launch the exhibition.

Community & GAA Notes

Speaking on behalf of the group, Joan Cleere welcomed everyone including family members, friends and supporters. Joan paid tribute to her fellow artists for their help in mounting the exhibition. Special mention to Marie who it is hoped will soon be back to the classes. She thanked Julie Moorhouse, tutor for her energy and enthusiasm for many years “Julie is so supportive of all we do and we are so lucky to have her”. Her help in setting up the exhibition means a lot. Stevie, Cor and Bernard did some of the “heavy lifting”

Others who were acknowledged were Lamber de Bie, PJ Cullen and Kathleen from Jerpoint Glass. Photographer Willie Dempsey (Kilkenny) was excellent. Kitty Noonan was a close second. Thanks went to Siobhán O’Brien and her team from the KCETB for their on-going funding and encouragement. Julie Moorhouse said it was a privilege to be involved in such a great group and she felt lucky to be part of this unique band of women. She said she looked forward to the weekly meetings and it didn’t feel like work as she was among friends. There is one very talented man in the group so far.

Senator Noonan was then introduced to the attendance. Malcolm said he was delighted to be asked to launch the exhibition. He was very impressed with the many different works of art on view. He congratulated the artists on a very professional display. His own interest in art is well known and he is looking forward to getting out the brushes when

he has more time. He was most impressed with the hall facilities in general and said the Bennettsbridge community should be proud of the many amenities on offer. The playground is a credit to all and is much used by people from Kilkenny and surrounding areas. Malcolm was presented with a Jerpoint Glass Tankard by Elma Khareghani. Julie Moorhouse received a beautiful bouquet, presented by Marion Murphy and Joan Cleere was presented with flowers by Lin Cowley. The exhibition continues daily until Sunday, 17th August from 11am to 5pm.

MENS SHED

The Mens Shed wishes to acknowledge and thank Kilkenny County Council for the funding grant received by the Shed under the Local Enhancement Programme 2025, towards the operational costs of the Mens shed. It is greatly appreciated.

SUMMER CAMP

A really enjoyable week was had by all at the summer camp in Bennettsbridge. Over 70 children took part in a large variety of activities including hurling, Gaelic football, rounders, rugby, playground games, dodge ball, arts and crafts, Lego, drama and music. The children also slid down the slip and slide and had a water fight in the sunshine on the final day. The weather was excellent for the week with lots of sunshine. The children enjoyed the excellent facilities in the GAA grounds and also in the community hall. Many thanks to coaches Conor Murphy, Ellie Forristal, Kerrianne Power, Paul Mahon and Erin Morrissey. Thanks to Enda and Cormac who organised the event.

LOTTO

Lotto results for 28th July. There was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbers drawn were 2, 4, 14, 24. Consolation prizes went to Charlie Hoyne, Shangarry Syndicate, Ann Ryan, Woodlawn, Seamus Cummins, Dunbell, Bernard Minogue, Thomastown. Lotto results for 5th August. There was no winner of the Jackpot. Numbers, 1, 3, 5, 26. Consolation prizes went to Frances Leacy, Bennettsbridge, Marie O’Keeffe, Kilfane, Sue Doyle, The Ring, Luci Brennan, Ali, c/o Olive Morrin.

WEEKLY MASSES

Tuesday, 7.30pm. Thursday 10.30am. Feast of Assumption Holy Day (Friday 15th August). Bennettsbridge, Thursday 7,30pm

GRAVEYARD COMMITTEE

A graveyard committee has been established, Canon Pat Dalton, Pat Lawlor, Kevin Davey, Richard Comerford, Owena Grimes and David Dowling. A comprehensive survey has been carried out to identify all existing graves and a catalogue of family names is now complete. On date of printing there are four single plots available in the present “older “ section.

EXTENSION

Graveyard rules; No pre-purchase of plots, graves are available when required. Single graves only, can be purchased, a maximum capacity of three persons can be accommodated in a single plot. Keep in line with insurance of grave digging. Graves must be marked out by a committee member. Numerical preference will not be accommodated. Headstones will be 1.1.M Wide (Max) and 1,2M high (Max). The graveyard committee must be notified before headstones are erected. No kerbing or sur-

rounds allowed, for easier maintenance with ride on mower. All graves will have a grass finish. It is the responsibility of the grave owner to remove surplus soil after burial.

CLARA BRIDGE CLUB

Clara Bridge Club is running Bridge lessons for beginners and improvers starting on Monday 25th August. The Club will resume playing after the summer break on Monday 15th September. The Club meets on Monday nights in Connolly’s, Dunbell. New members are most welcome to join our Bridge Club. If interested, please message Barbara on 0868629171.

BÓRD NA NÓG

Well done to our U10s who hosted Kilmacow in Go Games. Great skills were on display and it’s fantastic to see the boys improving week on week. The future is bright.

CLUB GAMES

Our seniors played out a deserved draw with Dicksboro in the second round of the senior league in Clara last Saturday. The final scoreline was 1-19 to 22 points. The lads now play Glenmore in round three in Inistioge next Sunday. Best of luck to all the team and management.

We host Danesfort and Gowran next Saturday at 3.30 with help required from 1.30pm. Our underage teams have completed their league campaigns and are preparing for their championships in September. Our under 12s team played in the Paddy Molloy tournament in Tullaroan and played some great hurling against Ballygunner, Fenians / Ballyragget, Freshford and Castlecomer. Our under 10s, 8s and 6s are training and playing go games at the minute. Well done to all. Best wishes to our players involved with the various squads.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN

Bennettsbridge GAA club has launched Pitch signage campaign. There are still places available and many thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far. If interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

HEALTHY CLUBS

To raise awareness of the dangers of Skin cancer the Bennettsbridge Healthy club, in association with the NCCP, have installed a sun screen dispenser in the old dressing rooms for use and uploaded information on the dangers of skin cancer on the club’s social media pages.

FIELD DAY 2025

This year’s field day will take place on August 31st in the club grounds. Anyone wishing to help out or display any crafts, please contact Andrea Kelly. All support greatly appreciated again this year with donations for our bric-a- brac stand, bottle stall and wheel of fortune all needed. No books or clothes please. Drop off times are, Friday August 29th from 6 to 8 pm and Saturday August 30th from 9 to 11.30

am. Home baking can be dropped off on the morning of the 31st. Thanks again for the support.

NEW AWAY JERSEY AND BASEBALL HAT

Our new away jersey is now for sale online on the clubs O’Neill’s shop. A baseball hat has also now been added to the range. Go to the website and simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box to see the New Jersey and all other ‘Bridge gear for sale.

SPLIT THE POT

Well done to Mary O’Connor who won 106 euro, Pierce Purcell who won 30 euro and to Joan Cleere who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the support.

ST MARY’S NOTES

CATHEDRAL BOOKSHOP

There is an extensive range of religious items for every occasion. Why not come and browse - you might be surprised. Monday and Tuesday 9.30am1.00pm and Wednesday - Friday 9.30am - 5.00pm. ‘THE MAN BORN TO BE KING’ Lake Productions will present ‘The man born to be King’ on 9th, 10th and 11th September 2025, in The Black Abbey, Kilkenny. The religious play will be presented in conjunction with the Black Abbey in celebrating their 800th anniversary.

SACRED HEART STATUE

Saturday, 16th August 2025: Bishop Niall will celebrate Mass at 6.00 p.m. in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe, Clogh, Co. Kilkenny, after which the Sacred Heart Statue will leave the Diocese of Ossory.

MEN’S JUBILEE CAMINO

Men’s Hike - Sat Sept 13th 20kms, on greenway, from Dominican Abbey (ruin) in Carlingford to Newry (St Catherine’s) via Newry Cathedral (Jubilee Indulgence). Mass, Adoration, Rosary, Confessions & Fraternity. Registration and details on www.dominicans.ie/events/ €70 (Lunch, dinner and bus), over 18s male event. Enquiries to op.evangelisation@ gmail.com.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK

St. John’s Parish Pilgrimage to Knock Annual parish pilgrimage to Knock on Thursday, 21st August–the anniversary of the Knock Apparition. Pilgrims will stop for an optional breakfast in Athlone and for optional dinner in Moate on the return journey. Some tickets are still available at the Parish Office. Tickets cost €25 each (food not included).

NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF KNOCK

The National Novena takes place from August 13th to 21st with daily ceremonies at 3pm and 8pm in Knock Basilica. Daily workshops at 12.45pm and guided prayer sessions in Knock Prayer Centre.

ACN PILGRIMAGE

ACN Pilgrimage to Knock Papal charity Aid to the Church in Need Ireland invites people to join their

Bennettsbridge U10s hosted Kilmacow in Go Games at the weekend.

Joan Cleere, Malcolm Noonan and Elma Kharaghani at the ‘Bridge Collective Launch

Senator Malcolm Noonan with Rory Leadbetter at the ‘Bridge Collective Launch

national pilgrimage to Knock Shrine on Saturday August 30th to highlight the plight of Christians who suffer persecution for their faith in many parts of the world. Mass is in the basilica at 3pm, all welcome.

ROTA

Readers 11.00am – G. Cody, 5.30pm – Sr. Nuala. Eucharistic Ministers 11.00am-K. Moran, M. Walsh, N. Molloy. 5.30pm – T. Lawlor, F. Culleton.

DICKSBORO

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 7th August 2025, the numbers drawn were: 3, 5, 15, 24. The Draw Prizes went to, €50 Pat Mc Cauley c/o P Maher. €25

each Orla Morrissey c/o Ian Morrissey. €25 each Rosie Keenan c/o Online. €25 each Jim Manning c/o Online. Hurlers Co Op John Treacy c/o Online. Promotors prize Deirdre OReilly. We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up and play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so

DICKSBORO SUMMER BBQ

Join us in Palmerstown today, Friday 15th August for an evening of good food, fun and lots of entertainment. We welcome all families, members and friends. See ClubZapp for more details.

SENIOR CAMOGIE LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

Dicksboro Senior Camogie Team were crowned League Winners last Sunday after defeating Thom-

astown 3-15 to 0-7 in Grennan GAA Grounds. The Boro girls now turn their attention to the Senior Championship which kicks off Sunday 17th where they play St Brigids at 11am in Palmerstown. We would like to wish Donal and his management team and the squad of girls all the best in the upcoming Senior & Junior Championship.

FIXTURES AND RESULTS

For all upcoming fixtures and results please see ClubZapp. Let’s get behind our teams and support them over the coming weeks at games.

PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE

Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is opened every Thursday from 8.30pm. 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 card table. We would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat, meet up with old friends, make new ones. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee is also available, so come along and enjoy.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN

ANTIQUES AUCTIONS (GORESBRIDGE)

Our next auction takes place Monday August 18th. Suitable items now being accepted. Contact 087 2569496 for more details or email goresbridgeantiques@gmail. com

BARROW RANGERS

There was no jackpot winner of the lotto on 5th August. No Match 3 winner. The winners of the monthly 300 Club draw of 27th July (for €1,000) were Ben and Trish Healy.

BOXING CLUB (PAULSTOWN)

Registration for existing members this Friday night at 7pm in the clubhouse, and Monday 18th August for new members.

BRIDGE UNITED

There was no winner in last week’s lotto draw. Match 3 numbers (€50 each): Zeus Hillier and Shirley Wise. Promoters Prize: Willie Murphy. Tickets cost €2 and can be bought locally or click on the Clubforce link.

There will be a summer soccer camp for children aged 4-14 from 19th to 21th August. Information on the club facebook page.

CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses are on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Masses on Friday 15th August (Assumption of Mary) will be at 10am in Goresbridge and 11.30am in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am in Paulstown on Tuesday and Thursday and 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.

Church of Ireland services take place at 10.00am in Paulstown and at 11.30am in Borris this Sunday

17th August.

TALKING THE TALK

Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues every Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

DANCE CLASSES FOR CHILDREN

Dance classes for children resume in Paulstown from Tuesday 2nd September.

FOR THE DIARY BULKY WASTE DROP-OFF

Carlow County Council is delighted to announce a Bulky Waste Drop-Off event taking place from Monday, 19th August to Friday, 23rd August 2025 at Powerstown Civic Amenity Site, Kilkenny Road, Carlow (Eircode: R93 RF22) during normal opening hours. Please note: This offer is strictly for householders only.

GORESBRIDGE SUMMER PARTY

Goresbridge Town Team would like to thank everybody who came to Party in the Park on Thursday 31st July at Cois Bearbha Park. Many thanks to the main sponsors of the event - Goresbridge Horse Sales, Goresbridge Credit Union and Red Mills. Maher’s Spar, Procon Vehicles, John Maher and PSD Agri also provided sponsorship for the event. Prizes were kindly provided by Goodly Barrow, Allcare Pharmacy, Connolly’s Topline Bagenalstown, Gourmet Grill, Lord Bagenal Inn and SuperValu Bagenalstown. The medals for the children’s races were kindly provided by Noel English. Other raffle prizes were donated anonymously. Many thanks to them all for their generosity. Thanks also to GRD and the many volunteers who helped organise and run the event. Their support, expertise and time is much appreciated by Goredbridge Town Team.

HORSE SALES (GORESBRIDGE)

Go for gold 3-year old selections take place 25th26th August.

Entries close very soon for the International Sport Horse Sale and Performance Connemara Sale to take place on 3rd-10th September.

SHANKILL CASTLE

Shankill Castle is open to the public each weekend (11.00am - 5pm). It is well worth a visit or revisit

SPLIT THE POT

Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie. Results of the draw of 10th August were: 1. Millie Maher (€100), 2. Brigid Murphy (€20), 3. ‘Mouse’ c/o Barrow Breeze.

BRIC A BRAC

Tar Isteach is looking for good quality bric a brac, household items, it comes in and goes out twice as fast - also good quality men’s clothes, handbags etc. we have enough toys and books for the moment.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CONCERT

Mick McAuley and John Doyle will perform in concert at Ionad Dara on Friday 5th September at 8.30pm. These artists have toured the World with USA based Supergroup Solas and also as a duo. They have performed with some of the biggest names in the music business. Support on the night will be provided by local Kilkenny musician and singer Gerry Walsh. This promises to be a fantastic night. Tickets €23 available from Gerry Kavanagh 086-0443152 or Eventbrite.ie.

Sisters Amy, Jenny and Tara Clifford with Jenny’s baby Harry

Tom Healy

Dicksboro Senior Camogie Team were crowned League Winners

Community & GAA Notes

KILMACOW

KILMACOW AND SAINT-THURIEN

Kilmacow and Saint-Thurien together celebrated the 30th anniversary of the twinning of the two communities when a group of 24 visitors from Saint-Thurien came to Kilmacow from 19th to 26th July. A most enjoyable week included a reception in the Council Chamber from the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh on Monday, 21st July.

She applauded both communities for sustaining and nurturing the concept of twinning over the past thirty years. Both are fortunate to be led by people who are deeply committed to twinning, to their local communities and to each other in that they, like many people involved, have formed their own personal friendship.

On behalf of the Council she presented Anne Marie Sévennec and Mary Walsh, Chairpersons of their respective Twinning Committees, with a framed Certificate of Recognition for the achievement of their committees and extended congratulations on behalf of the people of Kilkenny to the people of Saint-Thurien and Kilmacow.

Anne-Marie responded on behalf of Saint-Thurien and recalled the first contact made in 1992 and the first visit to Saint-Thurien in 1993 and the formal twinning of the two communities at a ceremony in Saint-Thurien on 29th July 1995. Joel Derrien, Honorary Mayor of Saint-Thurien presented the Council with an original of the Charter signed on that day. Mary Walsh thanked the Council for the reception and acknowledged the support received from the Council under the Community Events

Grant Scheme.

A Celebration Night was held in the Community Centre on Friday, 25th July. A lovely buffet meal was followed by a mixture of Irish and Breton music, song and dance. To conclude the event Anne -Marie presented Mary with a beautiful piece of engraved Breton pottery to mark the 30th anniversary. She thanked the people of Kilmacow for their warm hospitality and looked forward to them coming to Saint-Thurien in 2026. Mary thanked all who had contributed to making the night such an enjoyable occasion, those who had supported the events of the week and especially those who had provided accommodation for the visitors. To mark this special celebration, she presented Anne-Marie with an Irish Harp designed and created by Colm Walsh. As everyone assembled in the Church Car Park on Saturday morning for the departure the talk had already turned to plans for 2026.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 3, 4,10 and 13.

ROSEDALE CLASSIC

The annual Rosedale Classic will be held on Friday, 22nd August at Waterford Golf Course. The cost per table of four is €120. Please contact Martin Bolger or Éamon Rice for details and tee times.

MAINTENANCE OF OLD GRAVEYARD

The working group for local graveyards will continue its work for this year at the Lower Street, Kilmacow from 2.00pm on Saturday, 16th August. All offers of assistance appreciated.

ECUMENICAL SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE

Kilmacow Parish Old Graveyard Committee will host an ecumenical service of remembrance in

the graveyard in Lower Kilmacow on at 7.00pm on Friday, 22nd August. It will also include a heritage talk as part of the programme of events for Heritage Week in Kilkenny.

MULLINAVAT

RAMBLING HOUSE

The Community Centre will host its monthly Rambling House at 8.00pm on Saturday, 16th August. Everyone is welcome to attend an evening of music, song, recitation, stories and dance.

HERITAGE WEEK IN MULLINAVAT

As part of Heritage Week in Kilkenny there will be a tour of the water powered Corn Mill and Drying Kiln at Deerpark, Mullinavat from 1.00pm to 4.00pm on Sunday, 17th August. This event will also feature a Vintage Machinery display from Buckstown Vintage Club. For more details please ring 087 798 8275 or e-mail jjeck.dunphy@gmail.com.

HERITAGE FUNDING

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme is now open for applications. It provides support of between €2,500 and €50,000 to assist with the repair and conservation of historic buildings and structures. The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday,

Anne Marie Sévennec (Saint-Thurien), Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh (Cathaoirleach), Mary Walsh (Kilmacow) and Tomás Breathnach (Kilkenny County Council) with the certificates to mark the 30th anniversary of the twin

Mullinavat and Saint-Lachtains in the Junior F County Semi-Final at Larchfield 3 250810

Mary Walsh and Anne-Marie Sévennec with the specially designed Irish Harp presented to mark the 30th anniversary of the twinning of Kilmacow and Saint-Thurien

26th September 2025.

Also open is the Built Heritage Historic Thatched Buildings Grant Scheme. The closing date for applications is 5pm Friday, 26th September 2025. Please see the Kilkenny County Council website for further information and application forms or telephone Francis Coady, Conservation Officer at 056 7794376. THROUGH TO FINAL

Mullinavat made it through to a fourth successive Junior F County Hurling Final with a battling extra time victory over St. Lachtain’s (Freshford) in the semi-final played at Larchfield.

Stephen Law opened the scoring for with a point for Mullinavat but St. Lachtains responded with a point and a goal, scored by Robbie Dowling from a penalty. Then Mullinavat had a sequence of scores, including points from Stephen Law and Pat Mulhearn (2) and a goal and a point from Jake Morrissey. Following further scoring exchanges Mullinavat led by 1-8 to 1-5 at half-time. St. Lachtains opened the scoring in the second half but two points from John Reade and Pat Mulhearn gave Mullinavat a four-point lead before a good spell for St. Lachtain’s resulted in a goal and four points without reply. Going into the final minutes St. Lachtains retained a three-point advantage but a goal for Mullinavat from Jack Byrne Doyle took the game to extra time. Three pointed frees from Stephen Law to two St. Lachtains points gave Mullinavat a one-point advantage at half-time. They outscored St. Lachtains with three points to one in the second half to finish with a 2-18 to 2-15 victory. Mullinavat will meet Tullogher Rosbercon in the county final in UPMC Nowlan Park on Sunday, 24th August.

LINE DANCING

A beginner’s line dancing class will start in Ross Abbey, Ferrybank from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Friday, 5th September. The fee is €10 per class.

KILMANAGH

WAY DOWN UNDERGROUND

A Miners Life, through song and story on Friday August 29th, at the Derrynaflan Theatre, The Horse and Jockey Hotel, E41 AP86. Doors open at 8pm, show starts at 8.30pm. Tickets are €15, available at buytickets.at/waydownunderground or TEXT 086 196 0157 to reserve tickets.

MASS TIMES

Saturday August 16th: Kilmanagh at 6pm and Tullaroan at 7:30pm. Sunday August 17th: Ballycallan at 9:30am and Freshford at 11:00am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm mass on a 1,2,3 basis.

LOTTO

Weekly Draw held on 3rd August. There was no winner. Numbers drawn were 5; 8; 20; 26. Lucky Dip winners were Barretts Shop c/o Mary O’Connor, Sabrina Murphy and Pat Kennedy. Sellers prizes went to Shane Lynch and Pat Comerford. Next week’s jackpot will be €18,600. Results of Summer Draw held on 3rd August. Lucky Dip Winners of €100 were Catherine Twomey, Philip Cody, Brigid Burke, Eimear Keoghan, Kathryn Kenneally. Lucky Dip Winners of €50 were Little Sunflowers Creche, Sadie Cantwell, Nora Gleeson, Barretts c/o Mary O’Connor, Janet Holland, M. Luby, Mattie and Joe Butler, Rene Doyle, Lauren East and Peggy Hoyne. Promoters prizes of €25 went to Ger Neary, James Ryall, Philip Cody, Sean O’Dwyer, Martin Prendiville and Gearoid Cleere.

McALISKEY SCHOOL OF DANCING

Come and join our dancing school. Now enrolling for September for Children aged 4 and above. Classes available on Tuesdays in both Callan and Kilmanagh. Contact Seána on 083 863 8436 for further details.

GOLF CLASSIC

Mount Carmel Supported Care Home Annual Golf Classic on Friday 29th and Saturday 30th August 2025. Team Entry Fee €100. For Tee Times contact John Healy on 086 166 4256 or Margaret Maher on 087 960 6440. We are appealing to your generosity for this very worthy fundraiser, which you have so kindly supported in the past. Your Sponsorship can be given in any of the following ways; 1. Monetary Donation; 2. Donation of prizes for the Golf Classic; Bank Account Details: IBAN:

IE53AIBK93309014719192 ; BIC: AIBKIE2D

MOUNT CARMEL DRAW

We would like to thank you very much for your continued support to all our residents in Mount Carmel by supporting our monthly draw. The time has come to join up again if you wish, we would really appreciate it. You can join at www.mountcarmelcallan.ie If you have already joined with any of our promoters, please ignore this email. It’s still €25

for the year (12 draws).

CEMETERY MASSES

Tullaroan Cemetery mass will take place on Friday 15th August and St. Michael’s Pattern will take place on Sunday 28th September.

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.

JOHNSTOWN

500 CLUB

The results for August 1. Deirdre Manton (Mary McCabe), 2. Rufina Tobin ( Evelyn Sweeney), 3. Mary Lennon (Kevin Murphy), 4. Anne Holmes (Kevin Murphy), 5. Willie Costigan ( Oliver Sharkey). The next draw will be held on the first Wednesday in September before the Bingo. Tickets available from the local shops or any committee member.

URLINGFORD LIBRARY

For Heritage Week the library in Urlingford will hold an Irish and British Newspapers Archive Workshop on Friday August 22nd at 11am. Join the local studies team for this hands on workshop on using the National Archives Services available at the branch.

SPA UNITED AFC

Spa united will hold a summer camp from August 18th to 21st Monday to Thursday in partnership with Teaching Tekkers. Open to boys and girls from 5 to 14 years and all skill levels. You don’t need to be a member of Spa United to join the camp.

GOLF CLASSIC

St. Anne’s camogie club will hold a golf classic in Rathdowney G.C. on Sat. August 30th. Funds raised to cover costs of equipment, insurance, referees etc. Teams of four € 120. Information contact Anna Ryan 0873916720. The support of the golfing fraternity would be greatly appreciated.

FAMILY FUN DAY

The Mill Centre family fun day Sunday August 17th 1.30 to 4.30pm in aid of counselling services. Applications are now being taken for the LTI course 2025/26, anyone interested in applying call or drop into the centre. Contact 0568838466.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers of this weeks draw were 2,9,19,24,there was no jackpot winner and three match threes Tommy and Tadhg c/o Tom Kirwan, Jonny Stanley and Kathleen Webster.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOL

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

MASS TIMES

Mass time for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Friday 15th August, Glengoole Thursday 6pm, Gortnahoe Friday 10.30am. THE ROSARY

Will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Glengoole on weekday evenings at 6pm, Saturday before 6pm Mass and Sunday 12 noon.

MUSIC ON THE REEN

Will take place this Sunday 17th August commencing at 2pm. Raffle with great prizes. Refreshments available. All are welcome.

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 weekend. Your continued support is always appreciated by the Committee.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Pat Barnaville, who won €201 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 August is in aid of Ballysloe Tidy Towns. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

HOPE FOUNDATION

Lucy Keogh Barnaville is going to India with the Hope Foundation next year. To raise money she has an idonate raffle setup and the prizes are signed Tipperary jersey and signed Munster jersey. To donate go to https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/HopeLucykeogh

KATIE O’KEEFFE RIP

The sad passing of Katie who passed away peacefully at home on August 6th after her brave battle fought with such resilience and courage. Forever

Five. She will be missed and loved always by her parents Siobhàn and Kevin, her little sister Ròisìn, her grandparents Gerard and Josephine Fahey, Kevin and Esther O’Keeffe and all her aunts, uncles, cousins and her wide circle of friends. Mass of the Angels took place last Sunday in St. Peter’s Church, Moycarkey. Katie was laid to rest afterwards in Aglish Cemetery with family and close friends in attendance. May she rest in peace.

CONAHY

HURLING

The junior hurlers made it two wins from two when they got the better of Emeralds in their latest game of the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior League in Freshford on Friday evening last. Conahy got a goal just before half time from Bill Murphy to lead 1-11 to 0-11, and they held the lead all through the second half to eventually win out by 1-19 to 0-18. They are back in action on Sunday afternoon next at 3.30 p.m. when they take on Cloneen in Ballyragget.

TEAM: Karl Downey, Darragh Hennessy, Philip Cass, Liam Cass, Darren Cuddihy, Brian Healy, Eoin Cahill, John Kennedy, Ciaran Rice, Thomas Rice, James Bergin, Jack Murphy, Mark Gunner, Kieran Mooney, Bill Murphy. Subs.: Sean Brennan, Rob Ring, Brooklyn Synott.

CAMOGIE

The intermediate camogie girls begin their Abbott Intermediate league/championship campaign on this Sunday morning at 11.00 when they face Ballyhale Shamrocks - the venue is yet to be confirmed at the time of writing. Best of luck to all involved. Congratulations also go to Katy Murphy and Rachel Mulhall who were part of the Kilkenny Under-14 Development Squads who played in the All-Ireland Under-14 Blitz on Saturday last in Kildare. Katy was part of the Kilkenny Stripes team that won the Cup Final while Rachel was part of the Kilkenny Amber team who were Shield Runners up.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 4, 5 and 35. There was no winner of the €1,000 jackpot so the consolation prizes were Shane Byrne,Seanie O’Mahony, Aaryn Kenehan, Peggy and John Kirwan, Anto and Joe and Patsy C/O D. Maher. The promoter prize winners were Helen Cahill, Seamus Óg Brennan and Larry Bergin. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

COIS NORE OUTREACH SUPPORT

Cois Nore Outreach cancer support service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at Dr. Hogan’s Rooms, the Square in Ballyragget and in Castlecomer on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 12 noon at the Old Courthouse, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquiries are welcome.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS

Some upcoming events in Castlecomer Library include the following:

Lego Club - Enjoy making Lego with other Lego fans starting on Saturday, August 16th from 11.30 to 12.30. Each month we will have a different theme/ set a new building challenge for the session. This is suitable for 7-12 year olds. Booking is essential by contacting 056-4440561 or emailing castlecomer@ kilkennylibrary.ie.

Wonder Wander walking trail challenge (Heritage Week Event) - From Saturday, August 16th to Sunday, August 24th, we are encouraging everyone to lace up their walking boots and set off on the historic Wonder Wander Walking trail of Castlecomer as part of National Heritage Week. Enjoy the historic sites along the route while you get your steps in! All those who complete the trail and send a picture of their favourite historic site to castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie will be entered into a raffle draw.

Explore the Past with Digital Tools: A Workshop by Kilkenny Library’s Local Studies Team - On Thursday, August 21st, from 11.00 a.m. from 12.30 p.m., join the Kilkenny Library Local Studies team for an engaging and hands-on workshop exploring the rich world of digital newspaper archives. Discover how to access and navigate historical newspapers online, uncover local stories, trace family histories, and bring the past to life through digital research tools. Booking is essential by contacting 0564440561 or emailing castlecomer@kilkennylibrary. ie.

The Brilliant World of Tom Gates - On Thursday August 21st from 2:30pm – 3:30p.m., all young doodlers and dreamers are welcome to join us at Castlecomer Library for a Tom Gates inspired Work-

shop, packed with drawing, a scavenger hunt and laugh out loud fun inspired by Liz Pichon’s bestselling books. This is suitable for 7-12 year olds. Booking is essential by contacting 056-4440561 or emailing castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie.

THREECASTLES HERITAGE WEEK EVENT

Threecastles Heritage Group invites you to join them at Threecastles Graveyard, Ardaloo Road, on Wednesday, August 20th at 7.00 p.m., to celebrate the history of this important landmark. After months of clean-up by a dedicated group of Volunteers, we are delighted to welcome everyone to this special evening. Access to the graveyard is by a small number of steps. Light refreshments will follow.

HUGGINSTOWN

MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH

Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday at 9.30a.m. Vigil Friday 15th. At 10.00a.m.Vigil - Saturday. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Saturday 16th. at 6.30p.m. Friday 15th. Feast of The Assumption of Our lady. Holy Day Saturday 16th. Feast of St. Stephen of Hungary

PRAY FOR

Jim Dalton, Carrick-on -Suir and late of Boolyglass Anniversary Mass: Jack and Jim Wallace, Stonecarthy: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 16th. August at 6.30p.m. Maura Broderick, Croan: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 16th. August at 8.00p.m. Margaret Walsh, Boolyglass: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 17th. August at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (TWENTIETH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR) Reader, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Rita Farrell. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Catherine Dwyer: Sunday 10.00a.m. Noreen Kenneally. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Pat Kenny. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm. Mary Cahill. Sunday 10.00am. Ann Power.

STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT AGM

On Wednesday the 3rd. of September, Stoneyford Text Alert will hold their AGM at 7.30p.m. in the Community Centre and everyone is invited to attend. Existing committee members are stepping down and a new committee will be elected.

BLACK ABBEY

Lake Productions will present “The Man Born to be King” on the 9th. 10th. and 11th. September at 7.30p.m. each evening in The Black Abbey, Kilkenny. This religious play will be presented in conjunction with the Black Abbey in celebrating of their 800th. Anniversary.

ST PATRICK’S PONTIFICAL UNIVERSITY, MAYNOOTH:

Applications are still open at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Maynooth for programmes in Theology and Pastoral Liturgy (Higher Diploma/Diploma options). Visit their website for more details at www. sppu.ie/courses.

BLESSED STATUE OF THE SACRED HEART: On Saturday, 16th. August: Bishop Niall will celebrate Mass at 6.00p.m. in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Moneenroe, Clogh, after which the Statue will leave the Diocese of Ossory.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 4th. August 2025. Numbers: 18: 27; 04; 20. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner. €30.00. Winners: Margaret Farrell, Owning; Hannah Tennyson, “On-Line”. “the 4 of Us”, Rathduff: Breda and Kay,c/o James Irish; Willie Walsh, Boolyglass. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers) Fred Malzard; Padraig Crowley, Tommy Hoyne.

SAFEGUARDING IN THE DIOCESE OF OSSORY: Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche. HOPE - FOR OUR PILGRIM JOURNEY

The Priory Institute, two week on-line Summer School is reflective, informative and interactive and will run from 11th. August. The course includes eight recorded presentations and two on-line zoom discussions and is very flexible as it is delivered entirely online. Find out more and register at prioryinstitute.com

MEN’S JUBILEE CAMINO

Men’s Hike – On Saturday September 13th. Distance 20kms. Walking on Greenway from Dominican Abbey (ruin) in Carlingford to Newry (St Catherine’s) via Newry Cathedral (Jubilee Indulgence). Mass, Adoration, Rosary, Confessions & Fraternity. Registration and details on www.dominicans. ie/events/: over 18’s male event. Enquiries to op.evangelisation@gmail.com.

Hurlng matters - Review

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League

Two rounds of fixtures have now been completed in the 2025 St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League and the unpredictable nature of all things club wise on Noreside continues. Only two sides remain unbeaten in the early stages of the competition with both Thomastown and O’Loughlin Gaels holding unblemished records. Noel Doherty’s side followed up their round one win over The Sash with a comprehensive dismantling of Erins Own in St. John’s Park while the league holders got the better of Lisdowney.

Round two action got underway with the meeting of Tullaroan and Clara in Ballyragget, and it took a strong finish down the straight for Ken Coogan’s outfit to snatch the points. Worryingly, not only for The Sash, but Kilkenny, Tommy Walsh was stretchered off in the opening minutes with what looked like a nasty ligament injury. It was the men in maroon that settled quickest, racing into an early four-point lead, with U20 star Rory Glynn very much to the fore in everything that was good about his side. The speedy Glynn had good support around him in the shape of Chris Bolger, Paul Cody and Conor Hoyne, the latter who kept the scoreboard moving from placed balls. The opposition responded, with Mossy Keoghan and Dylan Simpson prominent as they tried to gain a foothold in the game.

It would be Clara that went into the interval with a 3-point lead, but Coogan’s charges ramped things up a little in the second period, with Bill Walton really shinning as The Sash took over the middle third, which gave them a platform to reign in their opponents. Along with his four placed ball efforts, Dylan Simpson notched 5 points from play as they were only 1-point in arrears approaching the final stretch. Shane Staunton got on the scoresheet for Clara, and it looked like they might hold on, but the highly impressive Bill Walton fired over three scores to deadlock matters. Kilkenny’s top Cat this season, Martin Keoghan then found another gear and struck over a brace of points, but one of Clara’s best performers on the evening, Paul Cody pointed to set up a tense finish, but it would be the games top scorer, Dylan Simpson that struck to ensure maximum points went to The Sash.

Two teams that appear

‘Hon the Glen!

Bragging rights with the Pairc na Ratha men in the South

happy to share the spoils when they meet are Mullinavat and Graigue Ballycallan, and this was the case during their latest clash in Dunnamaggin last weekend. The Vegas Boys looked well in control at times, but the Tom Ryall Park outfit can be a difficult opponent for any team, and so it proved in this round two fixture. The classy Billy Ryan was denied a certain goal inside the first ten minutes when Sean Fitzpatrick came to The Vat’s rescue. With Oisin Knox’s

accuracy and the Malone’s firing well, it was looking good for Mullinavat, but heading into the last ten minutes of the first half GBC were ahead thanks to scores from young Jeff Neary and a brace of placed balls from Sean Ryan. The light blues looked to be moving well when Colm Prenderville played in Aaron McEvoy who finished smartly to raise a green flag. By the short whistle Oisin Knox’s major, straight from his ‘65 saw his side lead by two. The

Vegas Boys hit the jackpot in the opening minutes of the second period, tagging on 1-3 without reply, Brian Phelan with the major score. Conor Flynn got in on the green flag raising to relight the Graigue Ballycallan fire and along with Ryan Corcoran and a 3-pointer from Sean Ryan, they breathed new life into their supporters hopes. Some indiscipline from Mullinavat gave Sean Ryan several opportunities to close the gap and the placed ball maestro

finished with 0-10 from his art. Conor Walsh hit the third of his points which The ‘Vat thought was the winning score, but step forward county star Billy Ryan to ensure his team headed home with a point in the bag. Clara was the venue for a cracking tie between Bennettsbridge and Dicksboro. The Bridge were ahead by the bare minimum when they raised the games only green flag, following a lovely lay off by Liam

Blanchfield to Sean Morrissey, the latter finishing to the net. The ‘Boro kept the scoreboard ticking over and went in four points down at the interval. It looked like the men in stripes were beginning to pull away, after 12 minutes of the second period the gap was five, but The Bridge began to claw back the arrears, and the game was deadlocked with four minutes remaining. Dicksboro edged ahead in the last minute, but a bit like GBC, step forward county star David Blanchfield

Brian kavanagh tries to prevent Jordan Molloy from clearing

Tom Mc Phillips chases David Blanchfield

Coleman O Sullivan gets away from Jamie O Keeffe Colm Treacy Heavily Tackled by Eoghan Moore

Hurling matters - Review

who rifled over from his own ‘65 to ensure a share of the spoils for Bennettsbridge. St. John’s Park was the location for Thomastown’s emphatic victory over Erins Own. The County champions had far too much in the locker for the perennial relegation strugglers. Noel Doherty’s outfit were 6 up when they struck the first of their four majors. Peter Connellan launched a long probing diagonal ball deep into the Castlecomer defence where Naoise Dempsey rose highest to claim possession. The number 8 was missing one vital element, his hurl, but that didn’t prevent him from finishing to the net courtesy of his right foot, which caught netminder Sean Buggy by surprise. The Town went into the break nine points to the good and never looked back. Having taken care of round one business with an impressive win over Bennettsbridge, Shamrocks Ballyhale made the short

trip to take on neighbours Glenmore. No doubt Henry would have been hoping to build more momentum, but it was Seamie Dollard’s charges that got over the line in their own backyard, despite a fast start from county stars Eoin Cody and TJ. Another Eoin, of the Kenneally variety popped a pass to the former two-time young hurler of the year who blasted to the net on four minutes for his sides first score of the game. less than two minutes later Niall Shortall was the provider and despite being under great pressure passed to TJ who struck a fierce shot beyond Eoin Murphy to give Shamrocks a four-point lead. By the short whistle, their lead was pushed out to 6 points, but Glenmore never lie down. They fought back well, using the elements and with Ian Byrne in outstanding form they were back in the contest and trading blow for blow. TJ struck a 6th point to level matters, before the aforementioned

Byrne struck over a monster effort from out on the right sideline to the delight of the home crowd. Brian Cody had a chance to snatch a point for his side, but his effort was pulled wide. Some win for Dollard’s Glenmore. The last action of round two saw Lisdowney face-off against league champions O’Loughlin Gaels in Canon Kearns Park. While Brian Hogan’s men ran out easy winners, 15 points was the margin at the long whistle, it was last season’s intermediate champions that opened the scoring through a point from Richie McEvoy inside two minutes. By the 8th minute, the home side were two points ahead, thanks to efforts from Brian Kavanagh and Niall Brennan. OLG were ahead by the 11th minute, and that’s when the game began to get away from their hosts. Jack Nolan played a ball into Luke Hogan who collected, spun his marker before racing away and finishing past the helpless

County panelist, Hogan then got his second and his sides third major on 25 minutes. Promising wing back, David Fogarty sent his searching delivery towards his full forward, who cleverly batted the ball down before racing onto it and firing past Tallis. The O’Loughlin’s lead was out to eight but the final score of the opening period came from the games first scorer, Richie McEvoy. Hogan’s outfit kept the foot on the pedal when

play resumed and had it have not been for the accuracy of Brian Kavanagh; the winning margin could have been double what it was.

This weekend round 3 throws up a couple of interesting encounters. League holders O’Loughlin Gaels clash with Dicksboro at UPMC Nowlan Park looks like a really good match-up. The Boro will have been served notice of Luke Hogan’s form and will need to prevent quality ball going into the

powerful forward. There is a repeat of last season’s Shield final, with Thomastown meeting Mullinavat in Callan. Noel Doherty will not want a repeat result. Inistioge hosts the meeting of Glenmore and Bennettsbridge. It will be interesting to see if Dollard’s charges can build on their derby win over Shamrocks. The Blanchfield’s will need to stand strong if they are to secure their first win of the season. Things are shaping up nicely.

Aidan Tallis.

Planning notices

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS (Planning Register Reference No. 25/60335)

Retention permission is sought by Cathal Dempsey for the development previously granted planning permission reference

P00/2015 at Redacres North, Co.Kilkenny, X91XT59.

Retention permission:

1. Modifications to the external elevations and finishes.

2. Retention for a single storey extension to the rear and side,

3. Window fenestration changes,

4. Retention for a detached garage & attic storage space,

5. Revised location of dwelling house.

6. Revised site layout and boundary treatments and all associated site works.

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 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 further information may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 2 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

We, Oakmane Ltd, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for retention permission for the following: Alterations to the previously permitted Planning Register Ref 2260009 to include the following;

1) Retain alterations to house type C on site no.05 only, including boundary adjustments.

2) Retain alterations to house type A1 on site no.12, including boundary adjustments.

3) All services, including roads, drainage and public lighting are as per the previous granted parent planning permissions (Planning Register Ref 19/706)

4) All associated site & development works at Middleknock, Sion Road, 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

Signed: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd. www.bdarchitects.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Outline permission is sought by Kate Holland and Kevin Kelly for a part single and part two storey dwelling, new vehicular site entrance, soakpits, and all other associated site development works at Bridge Street, Ballyragget, 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, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Orla Phelan and Stephen Ahern for outline planning permission to construct a 2 storey dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater treatment system, borehole, soakpits & all other associated site works at Kilbraghan, Callan, Co. Kilkenny

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Oisin Dawson intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing detached garage and all associated site development works at Ballyouskill, Attanagh, Co. Kilkenny R32 D5H0.

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.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. E.M.

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.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. M.K.

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.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. M.C.