Kilkenny Observer 15th October 2021

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 15 October 2021

Budget 2021 The good and the bad at a glance  See page 14

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Your Facebook How social media manipulates you  See page 18

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

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The Kilkenny

Observer JoJo: a sister’s hope THE sister of missing Kilkenny woman Josephine ‘Jo Jo’ Dullard hopes that “someone will get answers, us or the (Deirdre) Jacob family” as gardaí began searches of a wooded area in Kildare.

Fresh searches, expected to last weeks, have been taking place in woodland in Tag-

gartstown, Co Kildare as part of Garda investigations into the murders of two missing women, Deirdre Jacob and Jo Jo Dullard.

Detectives are focusing on reports of “unusual activity” noticed in woodland on the evening missing woman Deirdre Jacob was last seen.

It is understood that the location of the search site, a short distance away from the town of Moone where Jo Jo Dullard was last seen, is being “kept in mind” as the operation gets underway.

Jo Jo’s sister Kathleen Bergin, who was recently informed that the searches would be taking

place, told Independent.ie that she is hopeful the family of one of the missing women will “get answers”.

“We’ve had hopes raised and dashed a number of times in the 26 years since Jo Jo disappeared,” she said.

“You can’t help but get your hopes up, its only human

nature, but we are trying not to raise our hopes too much.

There were searches before and they yielded nothing.

“At this stage, it’s a waiting game but please God, for some family, us or Deirdre’s loved ones, there will be answers.

Our thoughts are with the Jacob family today as well.”

The case of Jo Jo Dullard was upgraded to murder earlier this year. The 21-year- old went missing from Moone, Co Kildare in 1995. Mrs Bergin said her family have had several meetings this year with the team investigating her sister’s murder.

See Paul Hopkins, Page 8

BUDGET SPECIAL At a glance...

PAGE 14

On your bike: scooter in fact, and this is Rian Burke from Kilkenny who, with his family, was out and about visiting the city’s newest attractions, the 21 Cats. And well done Ryan for wearing your helmet!

Our Covid aid UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Liam Neeson has hailed the generosity of the Irish public as he announced donations for UNICEF’s Get a Vaccine, Give a Vaccine campaign have passed the two million doses mark. Kilkenny donate more than 30,000 Covid-19 vaccines to some of the world’s least

INSIDE

Kilkenny’s on top of the world!

Paul Hopkins ................P8

KILKENNY has been voted one of the most lavish cities in the world according to a new international study.

The Marble city has been placed seventh on the list of most luxurious cities by size in the Money.co.uk study.

It is the only city in Ireland to make the Top 20 which

Travel & Leisure ....... P19

EVERY FRIDAY

includes other well-known spots such as Athens, Dubrovnik and San Francisco out of over 140 cities around the world.

The study analysed the number of luxury venues in a city to find out where in the world is truly the most lavish by square kilometre.

The Kilkenny

Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

To qualify as a luxury venue, the city had to have a minimum of a Michelin restaurant, one of the Top 10 designer label stores and a 5-star hotel.

Those involved in the study said it was the “size and quality on offer that stood to Kilkenny” making the list.

They found Kilkenny is home to six Michelin restaurants, a 5-star hotel and a Rolex retailer, all within 3.74 sq km.

Paris topped the list, followed by Phuket, Brussels, Geneva, Cannes and Lyon.

The French capital offers a total of 427 Michelin-star res-

taurants, 108 stores of the top 10 luxury designers and 95 hotels with a five-star rating.

Thailand’s Phuket boasts 48 Michelin-star restaurants in the 12 sq km that it covers, followed by Brussels in third place, offering 4.2 luxury venues per its 32.6 sq km size.

Marianne Heron ....... P12 John Ellis .................... P16 Health & Science ...... P18 Gerry Cody............P32-33 Picture Special .....P38-39 Food & Drink ............. P40 TV & Streaming........ P41 Sport .......................P46-48

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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Care shortage sees more seniors leave home LACK of adequate access to care and support services may see more of our senior citizens having to move out of their own homes, and lose whatever independence they still have.

That is according to Sage Advocacy, which provides support to older people, vulnerable adults and healthcare patients. The organisation said a national crisis was looming that could result in older people having to leave their homes against their will because of a shortage of available carers.

There are an increasing number of families who want to see older members of the family live at home, but there is also an increasing number that are not getting assigned carer hours.

‘Minister has set up special task force...

”

Support can comes from such as the HSE Home Support Service, independent carers or private companies, but there is a shortage of staff to provide these services is having an impact nationwide.

The Department of Health has acknowledged that the Covid-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented challenge across the health service and none more so than in older persons services. It said that while there have been challenges in the delivery of home support hours, particularly during the lastwave of the pandemic, significant progress has also been made.

At end of August this year, more than 13.2 million home support hours had been provided to 53,905 people, about two million more than the same period last year.

Some 478 people were waiting for funding approval, representing an 88% reduction compared to the same period in 2020.

According to Joseph Musgrave, the CEO of Home and Community Care in Ireland (HCCI), the department was warned by HCCI two years ago that,without a workforce plan, they were going to run out of staff.

“And that’s what we’re seeing now,” he said.

“Homecare is full in many parts of the country.”The carer

hours are there, but there aren’t enough carers to meet those hours, riregardless of whether they’re hired by a private operation or the Health Service Executive,” he said.

The Department of Health said the HSE would continue to work towards increasing home support provision, however it acknowledged that challenges

remain in relation to capacity across both direct and indirect provision.

“There can be delays between funding approval and delivery of home support hours, largely due to staffing issues, with particular local areas experiencing increased pressures,” it said.

A Strategic Workforce Advisory Group with involvement

of key stakeholders, including representatives from the health sector, education and the Government, has been established

by Minister for Older People Mary Butler.

The group will provide a forum for “practical action and collaboration” aimed at addressing the skills needs of the sector.

Sage Executive Director Sarah Lennon said action was required immediately because people are desperate for support in their homes.

“As lockdown is beginning to end and people are re-emerging, for a lot of families they’re still feeling trapped. They’re still feeling locked in their own homes.”

Bach Flowers for your emotional wellbeing CLAIR WHITTY

BACH Flower Rescue Remedy is a remedy that many of you will be familiar with. It has been available to us for more than 80 years. There are 38 Bach Flowers and Rescue Remedy contains five of these: Star of Bethlehem, Rock Rose, Clematis, Impatiens, and Cherry Plum. It’s the ideal remedy to have in your home or to carry in your handbag for times of stress, panic, commotion, or for busy lives.

Some of the situations it helps include; relaxation and calm before a driving test, dentist or doctor’s appointment, or job interview.

It’s often used by students before exams to steady the nerves. Travellers use it to help them relax on their journey or to calm their mind as they prepare for the trip. Right now, I think some of you could find it useful to help you settle back into the work place. Especially if there’s any sense of panic around heading back to work after such a long break.

It’s ideal for those of you with little or no patience as it contains the Impatiens flower, the remedy for patience. It could be you dislike queues or waiting for things to happen.

You might have no patience with people; you’re the type of person who would rather do the job yourself as you feel you would be quicker. It’s also helpful to calm the child who wants everything right now!

Rock Rose gives courage and peace of mind at times when you feel panic. This this could be before any event, exams, or in an emergency.

If you’re pulling your hair out because you feel like you have no control over your life then Cherry Plum is the remedy to help you feel in control again.

Brilliant too for kids (or adults) who have temper tantrums!

Clematis is the perfect remedy for when you are feeling spaced out, or when you cannot focus on work because your mind is elsewhere. Great for kids too who day dream in class.

Star of Bethlehem is the remedy for the effects of shock, this could be a bereavement, an accident, a relationship or family break up.

It’s available in drops and lozenges. Rescue is also available in a convenient on-the-go spray, for those emotionally demanding times throughout the day. it.

Call in to see us at Market Cross Shopping Centre, Kilkenny.

Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie Shop online: www. naturalhealthstore.ie

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€22m fund for student well-being MORE than €22 million in funding for financial and mental health supports has been available to local college students.

A total of €17.2 million has been allocated to students across Kilkenny and Carlow under the Student Hardship Fund. And an extra €5 million to fund wellbeing measures in the two countries.

Local TD John Paul Phelan said the funding “will ensure

that third-level students across Kilkenny and Carlow have access to vital financial and mental health supports”.

Deputy Phelan said: “I know that for many third-level students across Kilkenny and Carlow, the pandemic and remote learning in particular took a toll on their mental health. As students have now returned to university and college campuses, we need to make sure that additional measures are

in place so that students can access the support they need.

“The Government invested €5 million in mental health services and hiring extra staff last year, and Minister Simon Harris has redoubled his commitment to this issue with today’s announcement of an additional €5 million to continue the provision of student counselling services.

“Specific funding allocated to IT Carlow includes

€751,916 for the Student Assistance Fund and an additional €208,000 for the Institute’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund.”

The mental health funding will be used to: *Recruit additional Student Counsellors; *Recruit additional Assistant Psychologists; *To train HEI staff to enable them to support and refer students to appropriate services;

*To raise awareness among students of mental health and wellbeing services available, including through student outreach activities; *To support implementation of the National Student Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Framework; *To support implementation of the Framework for Consent in HEIs; Safe, Respectful, Supportive and Positive: Ending Sexual Harassment in Irish

Mount Juliet at tourism festival in Dubai

Young pupils looking to the big time THE Junior Entrepreneur Programme (JEP), which has empowered more than 80,000 fifth and sixth class primary schoolchildren to start businesses in their classrooms, could be the springboard for the next generation of entrepreneurs to match the achievement of Patrick and John Collison, whose business Stripe is now worth $100billion.

JEP Director Marie Lynch says that the practical handson business lessons learned by children leverages curiosity and creativity.

“Ireland’s primary schoolchildren have created businesses which have made over €2million in sales since the programme was founded in 2010,” she says. “Teachers witness an awakening in the children, excited by developing their own ideas, investing their money and working as a team to make products which they sell in their local community.

“Along the way, they get to meet entrepreneurs who are household names through JEP TV and meet local entrepreneurs in their community face to face. The result is a yearing to be part of the entrepreneurial culture and to become the

Higher Education Institutions.

Deputy Phelan said: “Along with mental health services, I know that the Student Hardship Fund is a vital support for many students across the region. It provides financial help to third-level students who experience monetary difficulties while attending college.

This fund will go towards helping students with costs such as books, rent and utility bills, food, travel and more.”

next Patrick and John Collison.”

(The Tipperary-born brothers developed their entrepreneurial skills at an early age and sold their first business for $5million when they were still teenagers.)

Last year alone, more than 100 businesses were set up in classrooms across the island of Ireland. Fifth class in Scoil Mhuire in Schull, County Cork were named Class of the Year thanks to their innovative chicken feed product, Chilli Chicken Treats.

The seed of that business idea was planted when children who had chickens at home noticed a problem with rodents stealing their feed.

They wondered if anything could be done to solve this problem.

So, what exactly is JEP? It’s an entrepreneurship skills programme offered free of charge to fifth and sixth class pupils. It was developed in collaboration with Mary Immaculate College, Limerick so that it reinforces the primary school curriculum, while also

promoting teamwork, resilience, problem-solving, and creativity.

Under the guidance of teachers and with help and inspiration from local entrepreneurs, children spend 12 to 16 weeks during the school year choosing, investing in, and producing a product or service from scratch. They then make it available for sale at a schoolhosted JEP Showcase day and share the profits at the end.

According to a survey of 8,000 participating pupils carried out in 2018, 60% of

girls and 53% of boys said they would like to become entrepreneurs when they were older.

“We are excited to announce a digitally-enhanced JEP for 2022, including live events delivered straight to the classroom and increased access to some of Ireland’s most successful entrepreneurs,” says Marie Lynch.

You can register at www.juniorentrepreneur.ie to be part of this year’s JEP programme.

Registration closes on Friday, October 22.

EIGHT tourism businesses from Ireland – including Mount Juliet Estate – are joining Tourism Ireland in person in Dubai for TFest – a luxury travel festival which connects influential luxury travel buyers with luxury hotels and suppliers.

The four-day B2B event involves ‘matchmaking’ meetings set up using AI (artificial intelligence), helping to ensure the delegates meet, and connect with, the most appropriate contacts.

It also involves networking opportunities with around 200 influential luxury travel buyers from Europe, the Americas, Africa, the Middle East and Asia and is a valuable opportunity to meet, and do business with, influential buyers who design unique, luxury travel itineraries for their high net-worth international clients.

Louise Finnegan, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Business Partnership, said: “TFest in Dubai is an excellent platform to showcase our superb luxury tourism offering.

“The format of one-to-one, inperson appointments provides a valuable opportunity for Tourism Ireland and our partners to meet, and network,” she said.

Roll up, roll up, to our €3.2m world-class medieval attraction A NEW ‘world-class’ medieval attraction will bring up to 100,000 new visitors to Kilkenny city, Fáilte Ireland announced this week.

Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Civil Trust has been awarded €3.2 million to develop the new Medieval Kilkenny Experience.

The new attraction will encompass the historic Town Hall (Tholsel), the existing Medieval Mile Museum and the churchyard of St Mary’s. It will be the first time the Dungeon and

Clock Tower will be accessible to the public.

A new brand and interpretive scheme will unify the entire complex and will use fun, humour and ‘horrible history’ style stories to appeal to a wider variety of visitors.

It is intended the major new attraction, which has an expected opening date of Spring 2023, will help to re-establish the historic city centre as the essential highlight of any visit to Ireland’s Ancient East.

The multi-level Tholsel will use

interpretive displays and exhibits to bring the story of medieval Kilkenny to life, from the darker side of history in the basement right up to the original Clocktower on the upper levels.

The outdoor areas surrounding St Mary’s Church will be landscaped and an outdoor play space and covered seating for a coffee kiosk will also be introduced within the churchyard. In St Mary’s Church, the interpretation will be revised to integrate with the new overarching brand and interpretive concept. The

central map table will be made mobile to allow for large events in the nave, and the Kilkenny room will be adapted to allow for events and venue hire.

Fáilte Ireland Product Development Manager Rory McCarthy said: “Developing must- visit attractions for domestic and international visitors is a key part of our recovery post COVID. The Medieval Kilkenny Experience will be a flagship attraction that will bolster and enhance Kilkenny’s existing tourist offering, giving visitors a new and exciting

insight into the history of the City and encouraging them to spend longer in the area.”

The Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Councillor, Fidelis Doherty, added: “We are delighted with today’s announcement of funding for this exciting new tourist attraction for Kilkenny. Heritage and cultural assets such as the Tholsel give us the opportunity to preserve our traditions for future generations. The investment in this restoration project will provide an opportunity, through

best conservation practice, to interpret and understand our history.

“We look forward to delivering a top-class family attraction for both our domestic and international visitors. We would like to thank Fáilte Ireland for their continued support .”

Ciaran Conroy, Chief Executive of Kilkenny Civic Trust said: “The Medieval Kilkenny Experience will add yet another world-class visitor experience to Kilkenny’s rich tourism and heritage offering.”

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The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

When women in fear live every day with a plan Three years ago when she was 15, Helen’s friend, a year older, enticed her into his house, when his parents were out. After some small talk he pounced on her and attempted to remove her clothing.

Helen, thankfully, managed to fend off her attacker and flee.

Her mother, a lone parent, confronted the boy’s parents in no uncertain terms after her daughter came home in tears, shocked and dishevelled. The attack was not reported. “It would have been his word against mine,” Helen tells me. “Who would they believe?”

Dee is my age. Married in the Seventies, she lived in Paris. “On the Metro, men were exposing themselves.

My friend was stalked for two years. A lot of women were harassed. It was a nightmare.”

Dee has lived on her own since her divorce. Her son

and two grandsons live in London. She is in rural Ireland. “Am I afraid living on my own? Often I am scared to answer the door. Often it is men saying tiles are missing on my roof and they’ll fix it. They see I am an elderly woman on my own and want to take advantage.”

Recently Dee was having her car serviced. “In the garage, the salesman, about 50, was fiddling with his phone.

‘Come ‘ere, look at this,’ he said and pointed his phone at me. ‘What do you think of that, eh?’ He was laughing, this face flushed. It was pornography on his phone.”

Meadbh is 39. “Cases like we’ve heard of in the last weeks are a reminder of the collective threat and valid fear women the world over live with. It’s always there, underneath, some days even subconsciously — a quickened pace, an averted gaze,

a fake phone call. Anytime you have a ‘strange’ taxi man you feel it, or get caught in the dark somewhere.

“The worst part is we grow up almost with acceptance, it’s second nature, to always be on your guard,” she tells me. “Stories like (Sarah Everard) are a timely reminder how real those threats can be.

“The good men, most men, need to be part of helping change the threat, the culture.

It starts with refusing to laugh at stupid jokes; it starts with stamping out cat calling.

There’s a long way to go.”

This writer has talked to many other women this past week. Shockingly, it is the case that, of all the women I asked, all have ‘a plan’. The ‘fear’ is always a low hum beneath the rhythm of their regular life, implanted in early teenage years. Although, statistically, violent crime is committed

on men more than women — 70% to 30% — women are more afraid. “You’re afraid a strange man will attack you,” says Helen who has started college.

So, women don’t run at night. Women don’t park in an out-of-sight car park.

Women don’t enter a lift already occupied by a single man in an unfamiliar building. Women don’t leave a party without their friends.

The Rape Crisis Centre dealt with 13,367 calls in 2018, the latest figures available. Three in four were from females.

Of those who disclosed their details, 44.8% said they had been raped, while 33% were victims of childhood sexual abuse. Many, many cases still go unreported.

Almost a quarter of Irish women avoid certain streets for fear of being assaulted or harassed, according to a recent EU study. The study

by the EU’s Fundamental Rights Agency shows 23% of Irish women “deliberately stay away from particular locations often or all the time to reduce the risk of being attacked”. Ireland’s finding is the second highest among the 27 states after Greece at 29%.

‘Often I am scared to answer the door..

”

The figure is even more pronounced among Irish women aged 16 to 29 with 45% taking such action “to avoid being attacked either physically or verbally”.

I cannot, as I write this week’s column, but think of Deirdre Jacob and of JoJo Dullard, the latter young woman last seen in Moon as she was hitching a lift home to Kilkenny in November, 1995.

“Every day women live with the fear,” says Ella. “It’s not paralysing but it’s omnipresent — whether out walking alone or, with pubs again open, asking a friend to watch your drink while you go to the loo. Women feel like ‘it’s all my fault if something happens to me’.”

Ella has just turned 21. She has her whole life ahead of her.

Will she always needto have ‘a plan’?

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Students offered chance to travel Europe for free FREE travel rail passes to 60,000 Europeans aged from 18 to 20 years, have been given to go-ahead thanks to the DiscoverEU initiative.

Irish people can apply for a number of tickets from now out.

Application close on October 26 at noon, for a

travel period in 2022, which will be the European Year of Youth.

Ireland South MEP, Deirdre Clune said: “I am delighted that tickets are once again being made available so that young Irish people can discover Europe. The Commission is designating 2022 the

Creches face growing crisis over chronic staff shortage CHILD providers are warning they will have to cut the number of creche places available as the sector battles with a chronic shortage of staff and the knock-on effects of the pandemic.

Neigbouring Carlow has one of highest shortages.

Creche owners are “burnt out”, parents are delaying returning to work due to a lack of childcare, and some counties have very limited creche places available.

Data recorded by Pobal revealed counties Dublin, Longford and Kilkenny had the lowest number of creche vacancies pre-Covid.

Dún Laoghaire in Dublin had the fewest spaces available, with just over 2% of the total capacity being vacant.

In Longford, there were just 38 creche places available for 2018 and 2019.

There has also been a significant decrease in the

European Year of Youth and this is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate this year by travelling and discovering Europe. “ The scheme is a great way to help young Irish people learn about and see other EU countries. There is so much to learn across Europe and

a scheme such as this is very welcome in helping young people as they learn and develop.”

This application round is open to young Europeans born between July 1, 2001 and December 31, 2003. Exceptionally, 19 and 20-yearolds can also apply after their

rounds were postponed due to the pandemic.

Successful applicants can travel between March 2022 and February 2023 for up to 30 days. All travellers will be offered flexible bookings through a new mobile travel pass. The departure date can be changed right up until the

Mairead at the helm in Micheál’s office!

Pictured at the unveiling is GAA Chairman Tom Murphy with grandnieces of Richard ‘Drug’ Walsh

number of places for babies and children aged between one and two and there are now 271 fewer providers than in 2019.

Childcare providers are warning they will have to cut the number of creche places available as the sector battles with a chronic shortage of staff and the knock-on effects of the pandemic.

Children’s Minister Roderic O’Gorman has secured approval for a significant new scheme that will see childcare providers given access to a funding stream to improve staff pay in return for a commitment that parents’ fees will not increase.

The Government hopes the move will alleviate the burden on parents by effectively freezing creche fees at a time of rising inflation. The Green Party Minister has secured a Budget package of upwards of €100m, part of which will go towards the new scheme.

Mooncoin honours its hero ‘Drug’ Walsh Eight new library sensory services KILKENNY library service is pleased to announce the development of a range of sensory services across the county library network.

The range of services include: * An enhanced toy and sensory resource collection featuring over 150 toys that will help with the development of gross motor skills, fine motor skills and play and life skills. *A specialised autism friendly book collection of more than 300 titles aimed at parents, teachers and children themselves. * A social story for each of the council’s eight libraries and the mobile library so that teachers, parents and carers can prepare children and pupils for a visit to their local library. These social stories include photos from

both outside and inside the library, as well as some simple text to read through with a child so that they know what to expect on their visit.

A sensory box is now available at all library branches to help pupils enjoy a better sensory experience during their visit. As well as calming toys, ear defenders and LULLS can be used when visiting the library.

The library is also working towards receiving autism accreditation from As I Am, Ireland’s National Autism Charity and Advocacy Organisation.

The final step in this process is developing and implementing a Charter of Inclusion which will outline the long-term commitments to supporting those with autism in our local communities.

HUNDREDS of people gathered in Mooncoin village recently to witness the unveiling of the ‘Drug’ Walsh statue at the GAA club’s new entrance on Main Street.

The Chairman of Mooncoin GAA Club, Tom Murphy, kicked off proceedings welcoming the huge attendance, relatives of Drug Walsh, and GAA officials. A special word of thanks was firstly given to the Mooncoin juvenile U8s, U7s and U6s boys and girls, who so brilliantly displayed their skills for everyone as a curtain raiser to the main proceedings.

Richard ‘Drug’ Walsh, born Mooncoin in 1877, was one of the members of Kilkenny’s first golden era team. Along with Sim Walton (Tullaroan), Eddie Doyle (Mooncoin) and Jack Rochford (Threecastles), he was winner of seven All-

time of departure. The mobile travel passes have a one-year validity.

Successful applicants can travel alone or in a group of up to five people (all within the eligible age range).

DiscoverEU is an EU initiative based on a proposal from the European Parliament.

Ireland hurling medals, all won between 1904 and 1913.

Their record of most AllIreland medals stood until Christy Ring came along in the 1950s.

Drug Walsh also has another claim to fame, a record that is still not broken all these years later. He is still the only man to captain Kilkenny to All-Ireland victory on three occasions (in 1907, 1909 and 1913). He also won three senior county champions with Mooncoin – two as captain.

He is also reputed to have been the first person to call publicly for the hurling ball to be coloured white for the convenience of spectators. He also helped train Laois to All Ireland victory in 1915 and trained Waterford in 1926.

GAA President Larry McCarthy spoke of how this

statue would now inspire generations of children as they come through the gates of Mooncoin GAA club to play games.

He said none of the day’s events would have been possible however, without the Mooncoin GAA Supporters Club of Australia, led by Larry Delahunty, Séamus Delahunty and Billy Kinsella.

The chairman also thanked the Drug Walsh Monument Committee in Mooncoin who had so diligently worked the previous three years to get the project to where it is today.

A special word of gratitude was given to Clare sculptor Séamus Connolly who ‘lived and breathed Drug Walsh’ over the previous six months. * Pictured at the unveiling is GAA Chairman Tom Murphy with grandnieces of Richard ‘Drug’ Walsh

A YOUNG South East student the helm at the Taoiseach’s office recently to honour of International Day of the Girl.

Mairéad Butler (19) is studying European studies at Trinity College Dublin and is a member of Plan International Ireland’s youth advisory panel.

Ms Butler, from Tramore, Co Waterford, will be the first woman to sit in the office currently held by Micheál Martin.

Plan International held a number of Girls Takeover events across Ireland on the day.

Ms Butler said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to ‘take over’ Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s office today.

“To be frank, it’s not good enough in 2021 to say that no woman has ever held the office of Taoiseach. I hope girls across the country will see this and be able to envision themselves in this office one day.

“The youth advisory panel carried out research over the summer and I’m grateful to have the opportunity to present the findings to the Taoiseach.

“Most concerning were the responses we received about consent, contraception and LGBTI+ identities.

“The reality is that when young people are not armed with the right information on sexual and reproductive health, girls and young women are at particular risk of being subjected to sexual and gender-based violence and early pregnancy, “she said.

Violin virtuoso to perform here The Irish Chamber Orchestra is back on the road touring in for the first time since 2020.

Renowned Grammy Awardwinning German violinist Florian Donderer makes his debut with the orchestra for three concerts in Limerick, Bantry and Kilkenny on November 11, 12 and 13. Kilkeeny is the 13th.

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Opinion

Let me womansplain a thing or two...

AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

ALL may be fair in love and war but hardly in politics, where below-the-belt insults get traded regularly. Recent examples of accusations levelled at our representatives include ‘leaking’ and ‘blindsiding’ and now Mary Lou McDonald has added ‘mansplaining’ to the list.

That’s a hard one to take.

Not necessarily because it brings gender politics into the fray but because it’s a difficult one for men to defend themselves against. At least when someone uses the term leaking, we know what they are talking about, even if the leak isn’t strictly speaking a leak.

The difficulty with mansplaining or womansplaining (let’s not engage in gender bias here, although I do notice that the spell check on my laptop doesn’t recognise the latter term) is that it can be hard to define where to draw the line between a regular explanation and one which involves talking down to the explainee as though you have swallowed a textbook.

On top of which is the inference that the splainer is better informed and that you, the explainee, are an ignoramus on account of your sex, so what could you possibly know about such matters? This kind of splaining is infuriating, all the more so because the splainer may be quite unaware of the offence they have given.

There are glaring examples: like the doctor who contradicted a labouring woman who said her baby was about the arrive and who told her that she was nowhere near delivery, left the room in search of refreshment and the baby arrived unassisted a couple of minutes later.

Then there are grey areas. I nearly caused a cold war in the kitchen recently by telling a man dear to me that he should wait for the oven to heat to temperature before putting pastry in otherwise it would go limp.

Was this womansplaining?

He evidently thought it was and shoved the pie in a cold oven which had only just been turned on ( the dish turned out fine by the way.)

That’s the thing, men don’t like womansplaining, anymore that they are reputed to dislike asking for directions when driving and so women avoid doing it. It can also be,

in these woke times, that folk are sensitised to patronising man to womansplanations.

Was Mary Lou being sensitive when Michael Martin spoke about the housing issue and the possibility of power outages in the Dail recently, or was she weaponsing the mansplaining term to use against Martin? (Don’t answer that one if you have a good idea of the individuals’ char-

acters.) Politics does lend itself to splaining, given the cut and thrust of interchanges where the aim is to rubbish the proposals of the opposition and to tell them in no uncertain terms that their policies are totally out the window.

One of the vexations things about splaining is that it makes the person on the receiving end feel belittled and that they are being treated as if

they were stupid.

My Dad was a great one for explaining things to me at length, like why helicopter blades make the noise they do, (something to do with breaking the sound barrier but I am not going to womansplain that one). I am glad that he did.

Let’s face it though, we rely on experts, like the accountants, financial advis-

ers, lawyers, dentists and medics who know what they are talking about and if we aren’t certain that they do we can always look for a second opinion.

Wouldn’t it be a step too far if people became wary of sharing knowledge or opinions for fear of being politically incorrect if mansplaining or other splaining became part of the weaponry of sexism?

Taking the first steps into a new career!

CASTLECOMER Discovery Park is delighted to announce the second year of its Foundation Programme in Adventure Tourism, run in partnership with Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board.

The Adventure Tourism sector is estimated to be valued at €1.2 billion and is one of the fastest growing and most exciting sectors within the Irish tourism industry.

Adventure tourism is a great career choice for those who love the outdoors, meeting new people, coaching and being physically active.

The programme includes Raft Building; Orienteering; Forest therapy; High Ropes Instructor Training; Bush craft; fire craft and shelter building; Archery; Nature studies and biodiversity; Team building; Canoeing; Ecology and local heritage; Bike skills and ICT skills.

Starting this November, this course will introduce participants to the skills and competencies required to work as an activity instructor working in an adventure park.

It may also provide a stepping stone into working in different areas of tourism.

“Covid has given the public a new found appreciation of the outdoors, which means places like the Discovery Park continue to grow in popularity. This course is a great way for people to get a taster of what it would be like to work in an adventure tourism setting, from canoeing to mountain biking.” Jo McCarthy, Activity Manager at the Discovery Park Learners do not need any previous formal qualification and no previous experience is required. It is particularly suitable for learners who wish to progress to employment or further education and training.

“Last year we were involved in delivering this course in partnership with the KCETB, Kilkenny Leader Partnership and Active Connections, we

were so pleased with the development of the young people. As a social enterprise one of our main aims is to create jobs and we were pleased to offer two graduates a job on completion of the course” Kathy Purcell, General Manager, Discovery Park This course is suitable for young adults in receipt of a DSP payment who would benefit from transitioning back into Education/Training in a very supported environment.

If you are a young person aged 18 – 26 and want to try something new which will develop your confidence and help you on the pathway to a career in tourism then apply at www.fetchcourses.ie using the code 332393 or contact KCETB Training Services on 056 7813014 / tsu.recruit@ kilkennycarlowetb.ie

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News will also be established • €30 million for protection and renewal of roads • Over €1.4 billion to further develop public transport networks

THE Budget’s €4.7 billion calculations, €1.5 billion of which is new spending commitments or tax changes, allow us to picture how State, personal and business finances will add up for 2022 and beyond.

The key Budget points are outlined here …

HEALTHCARE • Free GP care to be extended to children aged six and seven years of age • Free contraception for women aged 17-25 from next August • The maximum amount someone will pay for approved prescribed medicine under the Drugs Repayment Scheme will be cut from €114 a month to €100 • €10.5 million has been provided for 19 additional critical care beds in 2022, bringing the total ICU beds next year to 340 • €250 million to address waiting lists • €30 million for the Department of Health to provide further supports for areas hard hit by the pandemic - palliative care, mental health and disability services

TAXATION • €520 million of income tax reductions include increasing the standard rate band by €1,500 and increasing each of the personal tax credit, employee tax credit and earned income credit by €50 • Reduced VAT rate of 9% for the hospitality sector will remain in place to the end of August 2022 • Universal Social Charge ceiling of second rate band increases from €20,687 to €21,295 • WORKERS • Minimum wage rises 30 cent to €10.50 per hour • Income tax deduction amounting to 30% of vouched expenses for heat, electricity and broadband incurred while working from home SOCIAL WELFARE • €5 increase in main weekly welfare payments and State pension confirmed, including young jobseeker’s allowance • Weekly fuel allowance rises by €5 from midnight tonight • Thousands more carers will be in line to receive Carer’s Allowance with a single person allowed to earn €350 and a couple €750 per week and still qualify for the payment • An increase of €3 in the living alone allowance • Double payment of welfare allowances at Christmas agreed - the Christmas Bonus HOUSING/RENT • New 3% Zoned Land Tax (based on market price of land) to encourage the use of land for building homes, it will apply to land which is zoned suitable for residential development and is serviced, but has not been developed for housing • Help-to-buy scheme will continue throughout 2022 • €174 million for supporting the direct delivery of over 4,000 affordable homes next year • Commitment to an additional 14,000 Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) tenancies and a further 800 Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) tenancies CLIMATE MEASURES • Carbon tax will rise by €7.50 per tonne to €41 • Petrol and diesel costs will

Budget 2021 at a glance • •

•

•

increase from midnight tonight, with a 60 litre tank of petrol costing approx €1.28 extra while the same amount of diesel will be €1.48 more - all other fuels will have the increase applied from 1 May 2022 €5,000 relief for Battery Electric Vehicles until 2023 Changes to Vehicle Registration Tax ranging from 1% increase for vehicles that fall between bands 9-12 to 4% for those in bands 16-20 Accelerated Capital Allowance scheme for gas and hydrogen powered vehicles and refuelling equipment extended for three years €202 million fund for people to improve the energy efficiency of their homes in 2022

CHILDCARE AND FAMILY

• Maternity benefit and parental leave payments to be increased by €5 per week • Parent’s Benefit extended by 2 weeks to 7 weeks from July next year • Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance increased by €10 • Children up to the age of 15 will be included in the universal payment under the National Childcare Scheme (NCS). It provides 50c per hour towards the cost of a Tusla-registered childcare place for a maximum of 45 hours per week • Hours spent in pre-school or school will no longer be deducted from the entitlement to NCS subsidised hours • New funding stream for up to 4,700 early years and childcare providers will be put in place from September 2022 onwards

to support improvements in the quality of childcare provision EDUCATION • Average teacher pupil ratio in primary schools is expected to be reduced from 25 to 24 pupils due to hiring 350 extra teachers • 980 additional special education teachers and 1,165 additional Special Needs Assistants • €50 million in ICT grants for primary and post primary schools • Funding for 200 school building projects • €30 million for the school transport scheme • €18 million to expand DEIS programme and €4 million to extend hot schools meals to more DEIS primary schools • Maintenance grant for Third Level students will

be increased by €200, qualifying income thresholds expanded by €1,000 and qualifying distance reduced from 45km to 30km • €200 contribution fee for post-Leaving Certificate courses abolished • Creation of 20,000 new further education and training places PUBLIC SERVICES AND INFRASTRUCTURE • Additional 800 gardaí and 400 civilian staff to be recruited • 20% increase in the Garda Mountain Bike unit • Funding for the establishment of the Gambling Regulatory Authority • €100 million to be made available for disability services • €2 million fund to assist community safety projects

COVID SUPPORTS • Employment Wage Subsidy Scheme will remain in place, in a graduated format, until 30 April, 2022 - the scheme will close to new employers from 1 January, 2022 FARMING • General stock relief will continue to the end of 2024 • Stock relief for Young Trained Farmers and Farm Partnerships, and the Young Trained Farmer stamp duty relief will continue to the end of next year • • Travel & Tourism, Arts & Culture • New Youth Travel Card will offer a 50% discount to those aged between 19 and 23 across the transport network • €360 million allocated to boost Active Travel and Greenways • €40 million to market Ireland overseas as a tourist destination • €25 million for live entertainment supports • Pilot basic income guarantee scheme for artists • Over €60 million to extend the commercial rates waiver for quarter four targeted at the hospitality, arts and certain tourism related sectors • €90 million for an aviation package to help Ireland rebuild connectivity CIGARETTES • Excise duty on a packet of 20 cigarettes rises by 50 cent, with a pro-rata increase on other tobacco products

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News

Our Day of Days...

KILKENNY was awash of black and amber as the county celebrated their second annual ‘Kilkenny Day’. Celebrating everything that is great about Kilkenny, locals and visitors were out in force, enjoying the sunshine and the festival of events happening around the City and county.

The Parade and Kilkenny Castle were a hub of activity with market stalls, street performers, live music, storytelling, and old school apple pressing. Déise Medieval snuck in from Waterford and took over the Medieval Mile Museum Courtyard, showing what it was like to live, eat and fight like a Viking. Fight demonstrations and Viking To the manor bound: Alexis Bernstorff, left, and interactions delighted spectaCountess Ann Griffini-Bernstorff at Rothe House tors.

Ros Tapestry Talks took place at the other end of Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile, in Rothe House. This very special talk by researcher, historian and designer Countess Ann Griffin Bernstorff, spoke about this mammoth project that involved a collaborative effort of over 150 embroiders over 22 years. These wonderful volunteers freely dedicated their time to create this masterpiece of craftsmanship and Irish history.

The completed panels of the Tapestry are on display in Kilkenny Castle, while the final panel depicting the ‘Battle of Ossory’ is being worked on in public view in Kilkenny’s Rothe House.

Speaking at the close of the event, Kilkenny County Council Cathaoirleach Fidelis Doherty thanked Countess Ann Griffin-Bernstorff and her daughter Alexis for an inspiring presentation.

“The Ros Tapestry is truly an historic tale told in thread; it depicts, in a most engaging way, the Norman history and the influence of William Marshall in the South East.

We have been so fortunate that the vision for this project was brought to reality through the work of the great people like Ann and Alexis and the wonderful skilled volunteers over the past two decades,” he said.

Another highlight of the ‘Kilkenny Day’ celebrations was a special outdoor screening of Fighting fit: Sunny Keenan, left, Cartoon Saloon’s and Vena Sunda at Deise Medival Oscar nominated at Medieval Mile Museum Wolfwalkers in the grounds of Kilkenny Castle.

Ballyragget and Castlecomer Inspired by the wolves by night. The screenplayed hosts to the last in landmarks and forests of ings were attended by 452 a series of performances Kilkenny, ‘Wolfwalkers’ was people of all ages, and were

by Festival in a Van ‘Words nominated for best animated backlit by the magnificent Move’ tour. feature film at the 2021 OsKilkenny Castle. Movie goers The tour presented by cars, and tells the tale of were introduced to the movie Festival in a Van and Poetry Robyn, a young apprentice

by Wolfwalkers Producer Paul Ireland, saw ten poets and ten hunter, and her father who Young and Co-Director Ross singer songwriters perform journey to Ireland to help Stewart. Familiar Kilkenny across Ireland in a purpose wipe out the last wolf pack. places were spotted by eagle built, Covid-safe mobile But everything changes eyed viewers, including venue. Beautifully finishing when she befriends a freeKilkenny Castle making the on the 10th of the 10th in spirited girl from a mysterievent even more special. their tenth venue with their ous tribe rumoured to have Kilkenny towns Callan, tenth acts, Kilkenny based the ability to transform into

All smiles: Con Horgan of Fanzini Productions and Aisling McElwain of Aisling McElwain Ceramics

poet Mark Roper and Kilkenny singer songwriter Mick McAuley travelled around the County delighting audiences in public squares and parks. The well attended events were enjoyed by all!

The meet Your Community, Clubs and Council event introduced the public to clubs and organisations in Kilkenny showing them all the ways they can get involved. On the river we had the Nore Dragon

Paddlers, a great supportive group who have all had breast cancer.

Cycle Kilkenny were on Canal Square encouraging everyone to consider this greener method of transport.

There were bike maintenance workshops, obstacle courses and High Nellies to be enjoyed. On the Parade Music Generation offered instrument taster sessions,

Kilkenny Library had story telling with author Carol Ann Treacy, and Nore Vision and Keep Kilkenny Beautiful were encouraging people to get involved.

Other highlights of the weekend included a behind the scenes tour of Nowlan Park, Local Live Concerts in the Castle Park with headliners ‘The Kilkennys’ and ‘Jerry Fish’ and the launch of the Kilkenny Catwalk Trail, an art trail around the City that will be in place till Easter 2022.

Colette Byrne, Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council said: “It was great to see so many people out enjoying Kilkenny in the sunshine. This event is growing year on year and we are encouraging communities throughout the City and County to think about how they might celebrate Kilkenny next year.”

You can catch up on all the events and spot yourself in our pictures at @KilkennyDay on Facebook and Instagram.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

News Your Money

Using Revenue to boost your pension WE have written before that maximising your pension contributions is a very effective way to save for your retirement and can be very tax efficient.

As the cutoff dates for making your tax return nears here are ways you can save toward your retirement with the blessings of Revenue.

to a pension by 31 October 2021 and electing to backdate the tax relief to 2020, subject to the agerelated maximum contribution limits.

Example: Maria owns or controls more than 15% of the shares in her company. She paid Income Tax at the 40% rate in 2020. She makes a pension contribution of €20,000 by October 31 and with her return of income for 2020 she informs Revenue by October 31 of this payment and of her wish to backdate tax relief on this to 2020. She is then entitled to a refund of €4,000.

Tax-saving opportunities for Proprietary Directors If you are a proprietary director, someone who owns or controls more than 15% of the shares in your company, you have to file a self-assessment tax return by 31 October in respect of last year even if all your income is taxed under the PAYE system. But if your income includes nonPAYE income you must pay any balance of Income Tax, PRSI and USC outstanding from last year. You will also need to consider paying Preliminary Tax for the current year.

You can reduce your 2020 total tax liability and you may even receive a refund from Revenue by personally making a single premium contribution

Tax-saving opportunities for self-employed If you are self-employed, you must calculate your tax liability and make a payment by October 31 in respect of your Final Tax Assessment for 2020 and Preliminary Tax for 2021.

You can reduce your 2020 final tax liability and your 2021 preliminary tax liability by making contributions to a Personal Pension plan or to a PRSA plan by October 31 and by choosing to backdate the tax relief to 2020.

Example: Martin is self-employed, aged 45 years, and his Net Relevant Earnings for 2020 were €80,000. He paid €15,000 Preliminary Tax in 2019 and his total tax bill for 2020 is €22,000.

BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Thereby owing €7,000 for 2020.

He has no pension.

According to Zurich Ireland a lump sum pension contribution can save Martin a lot of money! Before October 31 he makes a €20,000 Pension Contribution and backdates the tax relief to 2020.

His actual tax bill for 2020 reduced to €14,000 i.e. the total Tax Bill for 2020 of €22,000 less tax relief of €8,000 {40% on the pension contribution of €20,000} However, €15,000 Preliminary Tax was paid already in October 2020. Therefore, a refund of €1,000 is due from the Revenue.

Preliminary Tax due for 2021 is €14,000 (i.e., 100% of 2019’s final liability). Total payment to Revenue is €13,000 Tax-saving opportunities employees You are an employee who feels you are paying too much tax. You could be entitled to a refund of Income Tax you paid in 2020 by personally making a lump sum personal pension plan, PRSA or PRSA AVC contribution, depending on your employment circumstances,

by October 31 and choosing to backdate the tax relief to 2020, subject to the age-related limits.

Refunds are claimed by informing Revenue by October

31 that tax relief on the contribution paid by this date is to be backdated to 2020.

Example: Lily is a 35-year-old employee who paid Income

Tax at the 40% rate in 2020. She makes a pension contribution of €10,000 by October 31 and informs Revenue by October 31 that she wishes to backdate

relief on this to 2020. She is entitled to a refund of €4,000.

John@ellisfinancial.ie - 086 8362633

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Science & Wellbeing AN internal Facebook report found that the social media platform’s algorithms – the rules its computers follow in deciding the content that you see – enabled disinformation campaigns based in Eastern Europe to reach nearly half of all Americans in the run-up to the 2020 presidential election, according to a report in Technology Review.

The campaigns produced the most popular pages for Christian and Black American content, and overall reached 140 million US users a month.

The revelation comes as Mark Zuckerberg said a Facebook whistleblower testimony to US authorities painted a “false picture”. Former employee Frances Haugen said the site and its apps “harm children, stoke division, and weaken democracy”.

Social media platforms rely heavily on people’s behaviour to decide on the content that you see. In particular, they watch for content that people respond to or “engage” with by liking, commenting and sharing. Organisations that spread provocative content, exploit this by copying high-engagement content and posting it as their own.

The logic of using the wisdom of the crowds in these algorithms is understandable.

But there substantial pitfalls in how the social media companies do so in practice.

The concept of the wisdom of crowds assumes that using signals from others’ actions, opinions and preferences as a guide will lead to sound decisions. For example, collective predictions are normally more accurate than individual ones.

Collective intelligence is used to predict financial markets, sports, elections and even disease outbreaks.

How social media algorithms can manipulate you Throughout millions of years of evolution, these principles have been coded into the human brain in the form of cognitive biases that come with names like familiarity, mere exposure and bandwagon effect. If everyone starts running, you should also start running; maybe someone saw a lion coming and running could save your life. You may not know why, but it’s wiser to ask questions later.

Your brain picks up clues from the environment – including your peers – and uses simple rules to quickly

translate those signals into decisions: Go with the winner, follow the majority, copy your neighbour. These rules work remarkably well in typical situations because they are based on sound assumptions.

For example, they assume that people often act rationally, it is unlikely that many are wrong, the past predicts the future, and so on.

Technology allows people to access signals from much larger numbers of other people, most of whom they do not know. Artificial intelligence applications make heavy use

of these popularity or ‘engagement’ signals, from selecting search engine results to recommending music and videos, and from suggesting friends to ranking posts on news feeds.

Research shows that virtually all web technology platforms, such as social media and news recommendation systems, have a strong popularity bias.

When applications are driven by cues like engagement rather than explicit search engine queries, popularity bias can lead to harmful unintended consequences.

Social media like Facebook,

Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and TikTok rely heavily on AI algorithms to rank and recommend content. These algorithms take as input what you like, comment on and share – in other words, content you engage with. The goal of the algorithms is to maximise engagement by finding out what people like and ranking it at the top of their feeds.

On the surface this seems reasonable. If people like credible news, expert opinions and fun videos, these algorithms should identify such high-quality content. But the

wisdom of the crowds makes a key assumption here: that recommending what is popular will help high- quality content “bubble up.”

Algorithms aren’t the only thing affected by engagement bias – it can affect people too. Evidence shows that information is transmitted via ‘complex contagion’, meaning the more times people are exposed to social media telling them an item is going viral, their cognitive biases kick in and translate into the irresistible urge to pay attention to it and share it.

New moon rocks are 1.97 Billion years old A LUNAR probe recently brought back the first fresh samples of rock and debris from the moon in more than 40 years. Now, researchers have determined the age of the moon rocks at close to 1.97 billion years old.

“It is the perfect sample to close a 2-billion-year gap,” says Brad Jolliff, professor of earth and planetary sciences and director of the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences at Washington University in St. Louis, as well as co-author of a new study in the journal Science.

The age determination is among the first scientific results reported from the successful Chang’e-5 mission, led by the Chinese Academy of Geological Sciences, which was designed to collect and return to Earth rocks from some of the youngest volcanic surfaces on the moon.

“Of course, ‘young’ is relative,” Jolliff says. “All of the

volcanic rocks collected by Apollo were older than thee billion years. And all of the

young impact craters whose ages have been determined from the analysis of samples

are younger than one billion years. So the Chang’e-5 samples fill a critical gap.”

The gap that Jolliff references is important not only for studying the moon, but also for studying other rocky planets in the solar system.

As a planetary body, the moon itself is about 4.5 billion years old, almost as old as the Earth. But unlike the Earth, the moon doesn’t have the erosive or mountain-building processes that tend to erase craters over the years. Scientists have taken advantage of the moon’s enduring craters to develop methods of estimating the ages of different regions on its surface, based in part on how pocked by craters the area appears to be.

This study shows that the moon rocks returned by Chang’e-5 are only about two billion years old. Knowing the age of these rocks with certainty, scientists are now able to more accurately calibrate their important chronology tools, Jolliff says.

“Planetary scientists know that the more craters on a

surface, the older it is; the fewer craters, the younger the surface. That’s a nice relative determination,” Jolliff says. “But to put absolute age dates on that, one has to have samples from those surfaces.”

“The Apollo samples gave us a number of surfaces that we were able to date and correlate with crater densities,” Jolliff explains.

“This cratering chronology has been extended to other planets — for example, for Mercury and Mars — to say that surfaces with a certain density of craters have a certain age.”

“In this study, we got a very precise age right around 2 billion years, plus or minus 50 million years,” Jolliff says. “It’s a phenomenal result. In terms of planetary time, that’s a very precise determination.

And that’s good enough to distinguish between the different formulations of the chronology.”

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Travel & Leisure

7 European cities that are better in winter

BY ULRIKE LEMMIN WOOFREY I DON’T know what it is about winter, but not only is it probably my favourite season, but it also suits certain cities so much better than summer.

I admit that this view might be subjective, as all the cities listed in this round-up are also great places to visit during other seasons. But, somehow, the best season to visit, in my mind at least, is winter.

1. TALLINN, ESTONIA Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, is like a time-stood-still fairy tale city. The old centre is snuggled within a sturdy medieval city wall, complete with lookout towers with red pointed roofs, and the cobbled lanes are hemmed with ancient buildings, some half-timbered, others painted in pastel shades. The market square sits alongside the old town hall, which dates to 1404, making it the oldest in the Baltic States. There are shops selling the loveliest local arts and crafts, with those little big-nosed gnomes, also called tomte or tonttu, which originate from Norse folklore, making

the cutest addition to your mantlepiece back home.

Now add snow, add cafes and restaurants with large open fires and serving either mulled wine, or glöggi, and decadent hot chocolate, add an ice rink set against a row of colorful old houses, and peoplxe warmly dressed simply enjoying being out at the market square filled with stalls during the Christmas season, and you have the perfect winter atmosphere.

2. STRASBOURG, FRANCE Choosing Strasbourg for this list was a no-brainer because it is the Christmas setting personified. I have never seen a city more decorated at Christmas than Strasbourg. Not one shop window or street is without twinkling lights, window decorations, or market stalls. You can barely take it all in, there is so much to see.

Don’t get me wrong, I have visited in summer and enjoyed sitting out by the river, and loving the atmosphere of the old town, but if you only get to visit once, make it December, and take in Christmas in Strasbourg. It has to be seen to be believed. And don’t think that it is too much or tacky.

Not at all. It is simply perfect.

3. STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN This is definitely a case of first impressions made in the snow and loved ever since. The first time I visited Stockholm I arrived on a ferry from Germany that had just made its way across the frozen Baltic Sea, landing in Stockholm after it had just snowed. The Gamla Stan, the old town, the palaces in and around the city, the parks, the streets, the roofs, everything was covered in a thick layer of perfectly white snow, making the already lovely setting of countless islands, canals, bridges, and harbors even more special.

While Stockholm is great in summer, with its people enjoying the light, warmth, and the chance to enjoy the water, I have always preferred it in the winter. Maybe because the city is set up for winter, and knows how to make the most of it, while also offering creature comforts and making every place snuggly and warm?

4. HELSINKI, FINLAND Another northern winter winner delight is Helsinki, and do you know why? Because I fell in love with one particular café/restaurant called Kappeli,

which is decked out in countless twinkling lights that light up the entire Esplanade in winter’s dark nights. Walking around the old harbour, visiting the covered market, the arts and crafts huts alongside the harbour, and then turning into the wide Esplanade, the historic Kappeli restaurant — one side lovely café, another side very nice restaurant — stands there like a special Christmas decoration, and it does serve rather good food, too.

And the square in front of the Helsinki Cathedral, just off the Esplanade steps from Kappeli, is another lovely sight, with a huge Christmas tree in front of the white cathedral.

5. PARIS, FRANCE I have always maintained that winter was my favorite season in Paris, much to the horror of Parisians, who easily get a chill.

But not only is Paris more void of people in winter but also, it is possible to walk along the beautiful architecture without the leaves of the trees being in the way of appreciating the scene. Not that I do not like the trees in Paris, it is lovely for the city to be so green, but when you walk along looking up, you

often miss the details of the buildings for trees.

And should you get snow that stays on the ground, then head straight for the Eiffel Tower. That might sound like unnecessary advice but trust me. Once it snows properly, all the metros and buses go on reduced service, and no one heads out. I had the entire Champ de Mars to myself, with four other people, managing to take wonderful pictures of a snowy Eiffel Tower without people. Just imagine.

6. EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND The capital of Scotland is truly lovely in all seasons, and even if it rains, it still has a certain charm. But Edinburgh pulls out all the stops not just for Christmas, with the steep lanes up to the castle looking particularly lovely, but especially over the New Year.

This is the time to come and watch how the Scots party and celebrate Hogmanay. Come prepared and get a torch ready for the torchlight procession down the Royal Mile, and learn the words to “Auld Lang Syne,” which everybody bursts into at midnight.

7. HAMBURG, GERMANY Hamburg is my hometown and I love all seasons there, in summer the canals and lakes are full of boats and paddlers, and the parks full of picnickers, and it is lovely to have a break from the famous schmuddelwetter, meaning the dirty weather, ie., the rain that dominates spring and fall. In winter, there is usually another break from the rain, when it turns to snow. And if luck has it, it gets cold enough for the two lakes that dominate the city center to freeze over. When that happens, all of Hamburg gets on the ice — walking, skating, setting up sausage and mulled wine stands, and people basically picnicking on the ice.

Then there are the Christmas concerts, best enjoyed in the modern Elbphilharmonie with its great views, or the truly iconic Hamburg setting of the St. Michaelis Church, the “Michel” as locals call it.

Add to that the great Christmas markets, especially the one in front of the historic town hall, and you will get the idea why this city is just perfect in wintertime.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

News

MacDonagh Jnc project cited for major award UPMC are delighted to announce that the newly established UPMC Global Technology Operations Centre in MacDonagh Junction has been selected as a finalist in the 2021 Fit-Out Awards as ‘Fit Out Project of the Year - Medium Office’.

Launched in 2012, the Fit Out Awards celebrate excellence in the execution of world-class fit outs, and also the people and

clients who drive these projects.

Speaking following the announcement as a finalist, Joanne Fanning, Chief Information Officer, UPMC, said: “I am delighted that the UPMC Global Technology Operations Centre (GTOC) has been selected as a finalist in the awards. We are proud of this achievement as it reflects the

high-quality design, hard work in delivery and the dedication that has gone into the project here in Kilkenny by all stakeholders.

“UPMC established the GTOC in Ireland to support the health system’s continuing international expansion and it will employ more than 60 skilled technology workers and other support staff over the

next three years in Kilkenny, adding to the more than 800 UPMC team already in Ireland.”

Ms Fanning continued: “UPMC are looking to help shape how healthcare is delivered in Ireland and we are fortunate enough to be able to do so across our locations. Providing high-quality healthcare in the South East since 2006,

Ibec welcomes national plan’s shot-in-the-arm to regional area IBEC, the group that represents Irish business, has welcomed the commitment to balanced regional development in the National Development Plan (NDP) and said successful delivery is paramount.

Ibec South-East Regional PresidentAndy Crowley said: “We welcome the ambition in the National Development Plan and the commitment to balanced regional development.

Ibec had consistently called for a robust public capital investment programme to address infrastructure deficits in the region. The plan must stimulate investment, boost productivity, improve quality of life and support the creation of jobs in the region.

“The revised National Development Plan supports enhanced regional connectivity. Connectivity is essential for more balanced growth and to tackle growing regional inequalities. Dublin accounts for almost half of all economic out-

put, making us more reliant on our capital city than any other country in the EU. “We must prioritise the reduction of this imbalance through ambitious investment in critical infrastructure in areas such as housing, education, health, digital, roads and public transport.”

He said a NDP with this scale of ambition had the potential to fuel economic growth. It provided an opportunity to address long-standing connectivity challenges, persistent regional disparities and support the recovery and sustainable growth of our city, towns and villages.

However, delivery was paramount, he said.

“This necessitates a bold ambition to radically improve capital project delivery timelines. The commitment to advance the necessary changes to the planning process will play a vital role in this. The focus of Government must be firmly fixed on delivery to secure the future growth of the region.”

Two men held over €1.18m. cannabis haul A MAN has been charged in relation to the seizure of cannabis with an estimated street value of €1.18 million.

The man, aged in his 40s, was due to appear before a special sitting of Gorey District Court.

He had been travelling in a vehicle stopped by Gardai in the Kilkenny area.

A second man arrested in connection with the seizure has been released without charge.

A file will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The arrests were made as part of ongoing investigations targeting people suspected to be involved in an organised crime group operating in the Kilkenny area.

The joint operation was carried out by personnel attached to the Revenue Customs Service and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.

A total x59kg of cannabis with an estimated street value of €1,180,000 was seized by Revenue officers the course of the operation.

UPMC’s operations in Ireland now include UPMC Whitfield Hospital in Waterford, UPMC Kildare Hospital in Clane and UPMC Aut Even Hospital in Kilkenny.

“Outpatient care is available at the UPMC Carlow Outreach Centre, UPMC Hillman Cancer Centre radiotherapy locations at UPMC Whitfield and in Cork, the UPMC Sports Medi-

cine Clinic at WIT Arena and the UPMC Concussion Network,” she said.

The awards offer a great opportunity for companies from all over Ireland to come together, network, collaborate, and showcase their work. They will be judged by a panel of distinguished commentators, critics, international designers and fit out practitioners.

Pupils urged to STEM up to the mark SCHOOLS in Kilkenny are being encouraged to register and take part in the 2021/22 F1 in Schools education programme this autumn by members of Student Innovation Ireland and Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) The F1 in Schools STEM Challenge raises awareness among schoolchildren all across the globe of STEM through Formula 1; it encourages students to think creatively, improve their skills, and gain confidence. It is the only global multi-disciplinary challenge in which teams of students aged nine to 19 deploy CAD/CAM software

to collaborate, design, analyse, manufacture, test, and then race miniature compressed air powered cars made from the F1 model block.

Four Irish winners from the 2021/22 season will compete in the F1 in Schools World Finals representing Ireland in the UK next April.

The national final aired on TG4 earlier this year and Aaron Hannon, CoFounder of F1 in Schools, is calling on schools to enter this year’s challenge: “F1 in Schools is a great opportunity for secondlevel students to dip their toes into the world of business, leadership,

engineering, science and technology before deciding what direction they want to take after they’ve finished secondary school.

We had a great uptake last year and we’re calling on more schools, teachers and parents to apply and get young people involved this year.

“F1 in Schools opens many doors for our participants, including a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent Ireland at the F1 in Schools World Finals in the UK early next year.”

Lucy Daly, Head of Chassis Design at Formula Trinity at Trinity College credits F1 in Schools for helping her realise that de-

sign engineering was her passion. She said: “F1 in Schools was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I competed at regional and national level in both 2014 as a junior cycle student and in 2016 as a senior cycle student.

Next September, I will lead the team as Team Captain for the 2022 edition of the Formula Student competition at Silverstone International Racing Circuit which is a dream come true. My goal is to have a career in the motorsport industry as an aerodynamic or chassis engineer. “ For more information visit f1inschools.ie or email info@f1inschools.ie.

Major plans approved for south county school THE Department of Education & Skills has approved the development of a major extension at St Senan’s National School in Kilmacow, south Kilkenny.

The project will see the construction of three new mainstream classrooms, two Special

Education rooms and a twoclassroom Special Educational Needs base. The works will also include the demolition of an old prefab on the grounds of the school.

Local TD John Paul Phelan said the extension would “will

significantly improve facilities” at the school.

Deputy Phelan said: “This long-awaited extension to St. Senan’s NS is great news for the entire school community and indeed Kilmacow and the surrounding areas.

“The school team has been under enormous pressure in recent years due to capacity and this work will vastly improve facilities for staff and pupils alike, allowing the school to cater for current and future demand throughout the area.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

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Parent – child sleep wars ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

THE BATTLE to get your kids to sleep is well-known to most parents. It’s a natural part of growing up when children test boundaries and bedtime is one of the biggest.

However, Mums and Dads know the importance of getting a good night’s shuteye, particularly with school back. So what do you do when your son or daughter is pushing the limits of what you think is an appropriate time for them to nod off?

Particularly prevalent with teens, but common with younger children too, is “social jet lag”. This has nothing to do with their relationships with friends. It is caused by the habit of kids to sleep later on a weekend than during the week. Many teenagers, and little ones, on a Friday and Saturday go to bed at a time which bears no re-

semblance to their weekday schedule, sleeping till or even past lunchtime the next day. This shifts their body clocks, often significantly.

Without having travelled anywhere, they’re basically living in a different time zone on non-school days making it more difficult to get to sleep early on Sunday – Thursday nights.

Of course, later bedtimes at weekends is normal. Good luck trying to tell your child they need to go to bed at the same time seven days a week!

That aside, it’s worth keeping that extension within reasonable limits so your teen doesn’t find it impossible to get to sleep early enough on a weekday. Equally key is not letting your son or daughter snooze too late on a Saturday and Sunday morning.

Another good idea is avoiding screen time, and this includes the television, for at least an hour before heading to bed. This is a good idea for parents and other adults too.

In simple terms, your body creates more melatonin, the

sleep hormone, when it gets dark. By using phones, laptops and televisions within 60 minutes of going to bed, you’re sending your brain the message that it’s still daytime due to the light from these sources thus depleting your body of this natural chemical.

A relaxation routine can encourage good sleep too.

For that last hour of the day, instead of using screens, your whole family could get together to listen to soothing music, meditate, practise yoga or any other activity which encourages you to unwind. Not only will this help your child get enough shut eye, it will help you as well!

Getting a good night’s sleep is a battle for all of us at times. No matter how many good bedtime habits you put in place, sometimes things just won’t go your child’s way. However, by establishing good patterns, you can help your son or daughter to get those much-needed hours of shut-eye and make bedtime a breeze.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

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MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre

Man in the

r o r r i M

THE new season doesn’t just mean a wardrobe refresh for the ladies! Men, get your wardrobes autumn/winter ready with all the looks you need from MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre.

Every wardrobe needs that go-to casual yet stylish seasonal outfit. Look no further than River Island for the perfect outfit that combines a classy look and feel. Team a pair of jeans with a classic white tee and checked shacket to showcase an effortless style. Finish off this casual and comfy look with a pair of trainers from Skechers.

Searching for some outdoor gear? Regatta have a large selection of waterproof walking shoes perfect for autumn hikes. Even better, there’s no need to worry about the rain as they have insulated waterproof coats that will not only keep you dry but also toasty warm!

Now that the outdoor and casual looks have been taken care of, it’s time to step it up a notch for a more sophisticated look with a dinner jacket, suit trousers and dress shoes from TK Maxx- a classic style that never ages!

For more men’s fashion inspiration make sure to follow MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre on Facebook and Instagram.

River Island €87 u

t River Island €15

t TK Maxx €79.99

Skechers €80 u

*All prices correct at time of print t Regatta €84

q TK Maxx €39.99

q TK Maxx €12.99

Regatta €60 u

River Island €60 u

t TK Maxx €26.99

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

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Much More Than Words THIS WEEK, in our look at the recently published book of poetry and prose by The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and The Recovery College , we feature poems from three of our guest writers: Michael Harding, Angela Keogh and Martina Evans

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

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

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

Michael Harding

“From a very young age I wanted two things, ... some kind of mystical, private solitary life and to be a poet... I published my first poems in the Junior Digest aged 11”.

Michael Harding was born in 1953 in Cavan and is an Irish short story writer, newspaper columnist, novelist and playwright. He was a recipient of the Stewart Parker Theatre Bursary in 1990 and the Bank of Ireland/RTE award for excellence in the Arts in the same year. He won the Hennessy Literary Award for short stories in 1980 and became a member of Aosdana in 2000. He is the author of six volumes of memoir, and his latest book, What Is Beautiful In The Sky, was published in 2020.27

Dreaming of Trees

When I was a boy I dreamed of trees, of wind, and of doors opening and closing in the night.

I grew up in a landscape of drumlins smooth as lapis lazuli, neatly dotted with hard woods of glorious gold on autumn days, and forests of beech and huge chestnuts like the skirts of some giant auntie making canopies of shade along the roadside, beside stone pillars and gothic gates, in the late summer evenings, when we would cycle home from the lake, our carriers hung with branches of wild pike.

Cows and flies beneath the chestnut trees on hot days, the field gone to mud and cakes of dung.

I stood beneath the trees and gazed up at the tips that bent over in the harsh wind of winter, and saw them leaning and screeching, and I thought there was someone there.

Someone behind the veil.

Someone suffering in that windy cry.

Michael Harding

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

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

Angela Keogh

Angela Keogh is a Kilkenny born writer, much of whose childhood was spent between Michael Street, the Sion Road and Bennetsbridge. She has been published in the Kilkenny Broadsheet a number of times.

Her play The Winter Dress, about the arrival of the Black Death in Kilkenny in 1348, toured in 2017 and 2018. Her novel of the same name was one of the winners of the Irish Writers’ Centre Novel Fair 2020 and was published in 2020.

Two of her radio plays were recorded by KCLR in 2020 and were broadcast in 2021.

Angela also works in theatre and as a tutor at The Hedge School on the Moone.

An Irish Poem

Slips off the page and calls next door, with a plate of sandwiches.

An Irish poem, in blue lipped Wexford sparkles, between the showers, like a million blinking eyes.

An Irish poem, wanders over bogs and ghost estates dreaming of bravery.

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

Price: €10

Martina Evans

Martina Evans is an Irish poet, novelist and teacher. She grew up in County Cork in a country pub, shop and petrol station and is the youngest of ten children.

She is the author of books of prose and poetry. When Martina joined us to discuss poetry and other things, she had just completed work on her latest collection Now We Can Talk Openly About Men which was featured in the Times Literary Supplement, Observer and Irish Times Books of the Year.

Clinical Indications

Oh was shorthand for the chemical equation C2H5Oh – Ethanol meaning alcohol, a tip-off from the doctor, a code message to say drink was involved, the patient was drunk.

The radiographer faraway in a deserted X-ray department at night had to watch out for the obstreperous.

It might have been shorthand for Irish but how could they scare me when I only had to lay my Cork accent like a wand on their ears? 25

An Irish poem chases away sorrow with a bottle of beer and stumbles about in the ill-fitting shoes of its neighbours.

An Irish poem reaches back to empty bellies with useless arms.

An Irish poem is staring at the screen, writing about loneliness, still listening to drunken songs in a small old house.

An Irish poem sleeps in damp doorways and warm beds and tries, as best it can, to wake up.

An Irish poem has abandoned the relics and the wells and carries itself in a whispering breeze and red sky.

An Irish poem has spaces between the verses of poverty and plenty and needs a good editor.

An Irish poem is the sob of a mother in a convent and a boat leaving.

An Irish poem is laughter on a dark day and a quiet queue of the dying.

An Irish poem is tying ropes and cutting ropes, cold with shame on a snow filled morning.

An Irish poem is an ugly mob at a mosque and deep pockets at Christmas.

An Irish poem is a pair of pigeons purpled in light searching, searching, searching.

Once I puzzled over a request form for a chest X-ray that gave one word – Irish – in the Clinical Indications box.

Was it a joke? Or working backwards, shorthand for the drink or drunk or look out for the telltale fractures of the third metacarpal from frustrated Paddies punching walls for the bi-lateral healed rib fractures of the older labouring immigrants who got so plastered they fell down, broke, healed and carried on, the stigmata inside the coats of their skin like the rays from a sacred heart? Or did it mean what I never understood?

That night, the young doctor with the black moustache too close to me at 2 a.m., his breath in my ear, whispering – Something has to be done about the Irish.

They’re spreading TB, spitting it on the floors in Kilburn.

I’m scanning another man’s head so I can’t move away from the smell of his Wotsits.

I look straight ahead while through the microphone on the other side of the glass my voice echoes – Keep still, you’re doing brilliant – to Mr MacNamara, yards away terrified on a moving table.

Angela Keogh

Martina Evans

Much More Than Wor

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LPT - Evaluation

Local property tax evaluation OVER the past few days, we all have been receiving our local property tax evaluation forms. As always, these brown envelopes come in our doors without any fore warning, and it is no wonder therefore, it causes many of our seniors to worry and become stressed over another bill as the winter is about to arrive. Not to mention heating bills going up, ESB on the rise, the car we use once weekly, the petrol is sky rocketing and on it goes.

This week we are going to look at ways to alleviate any worries we might have about this LPT.

Valuing your property • It is not necessary for property owners to use online sources to determine the value of their property for LPT. • Other non-online sources that will assist property owners to value their property include auctioneers advertisements in newspapers (local and/or national) or checking the information displayed in the local auctioneer’s office.

• Property owners are required to determine the value of their property to identify the ‘valuation

band’ their property falls into, which, in turn, determines the amount of LPT a property owner will pay.

• As the bands are very wide, it is not so much an exact valuation down to the last euro property owners need to determine but rather an honest and realistic approximate valuation.

LPT for those who cannot access or use online services.

• Revenue fully appreciate that not all property owners are able to avail of, access or use online services.

• Revenue’s service delivery model, including in relation to Local Property Tax (LPT), is designed to cater for those who are unable to avail of these services.

• Specifically in relation to LPT, Revenue has issued approx. 200,000 paper LPT Returns accompanied by a covering letter to property owners who have not previously filed or paid their LPT through our online portal or who are not registered for

either of our online services (my Account or ROS).

• Property owners who haven’t received a paper LPT Return and who are not able to submit their LPT Return online should not be concerned.

• An alternative option available is to contact Revenue’s LPT Helpline on (01) 7383626.

• Revenues call centre agents will assist property owners by filing their return and setting up their payment

method over the phone.

• In advance of calling, property owners will need to first value their property and have their Property ID and PIN to hand (these can be found on any LPT correspondence previously received from Revenue).

• Alternatively, property owners can write to Revenue with details of their Property ID, your PIN, property valuation and preferred payment option.

Paying your LPT • There is a wide range of LPT payment options that do not require interaction with online services.

• For example, property owners can choose to pay by cheque, by once off cash payment through an approved payment service provider, or by deduction at source from their pension.

• Property owners can select any of these payment options on the paper LPT return or when they contact

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Revenue by phone or in writing.

• If property owners have already been paying LPT by one of the recurring payment options, the current payment method will be automatically carried forward to 2022.

• This means that the current recurring payment method will continue to apply for 2022 unless a property owner selects a different payment option when submitting his or her LPT

Return or if he or she notifies Revenue by telephone or in writing that of a different payment method.

You May be exempt from paying Local property Tax (LPT)

The Local Property Tax as mentioned earlier is a worrying bill for our seniors. As we get ready for the winter, and we count our pennies to ensure we have a well-insulated and heated home we then got the LPT though our door but………you may be exempt.

You may be exempt from paying local property tax (LPT). Many of us have a carer or we are carers and we have had to get the house adapted due to a disability, or that of our spouse that needs

assistance.

These guidelines deal with two reliefs applying to local property tax (LPT) which are relevant to properties occupied by individuals who are either disabled or permanently and totally incapacitated.

There are two different types of LPT relief: 1. A reduction in the chargeable value of a property that has been adapted to make it more suitable for occupation by a person with a disability where the adaptation work has resulted in an increase in the chargeable value of the property. Up to the year 2017, the adaptation work must increase the chargeable value to the extent that it moves into a higher valuation band.

From the year 2017, the relief will operate by allowing the chargeable value to be reduced by a fixed annual amount of €50,000.

2. A full exemption from the charge of local property tax (LPT) for properties that have been constructed or acquired because of their suitability for occupation by individuals who are permanently and totally incapacitated to such an extent that they are unable to maintain themselves and whose condition is so severe that it dictates the type of property that they can live in. The exemption also applies to properties that have been adapted to make them suitable for occupation by such individuals.

• The property must have been adapted for the sole purpose of making it more suitable for occupation by a disabled individual.

• Following its adaptation, the property must be occupied as the sole or main residence of the disabled individual.

• The chargeable value of the property must increase because of the adaptation work, and • a relevant local authority grant must be paid towards the cost of the adaptation work, or where such a grant is not paid, the liable person must receive approval from Revenue for the relief So, if you have any adaptations done to your home, say adaptation of your bathroom, and if it was funded by the local Authority, it may qualify you for an exemption of the LPT. Filling in any form is daunting, but we have a citizens advice bureau to help our citizens with information, an Older Peoples Council and we at Twilight can advise as best we can to help alleviate any stress or worry you may have.

Take care and stay safe.

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Feature WORDS: PATRICK GRIFFIN PHOTOS:PAT SHORTALL ‘Great thoughts are formed in silence’.

Those words accurately capture the essence of a brand new collection of poetry and prose, ‘Much More Than Words’, launched at the Butler Gallery, Kilkenny last Friday, at the beginning of Mental Health Week.

The above quotation, author unknown, was reflected

by Olivia O’Leary, writer and broadcaster, in her introduction to the book. She repeated the words of novelist, playwright and author Roddy Doyle who, in his contribution to the book, said that “writers must be willing to sit for long periods. Being alone is a challenge.”

The venue for the book launch, the beautifully restored Butler Gallery and former 19th century almshouse, was a magnificent setting for the event. Indeed the wonderful display of Still Life paintings

by Kilkenny-based artist Blaise Smith formed the perfect backdrop to the poems. Each of the paintings by this supremely talented artist act as records of our everyday world. The poems act as records of our thoughts, feelings, emotions and reactions to that same ‘everyday world’ in which we live and breathe.

Mayor Andrew McGuinness spoke about the importance of this book launch. He said that the aptly titled ‘Much More Than Words’ poetry collection delves deeply into the relationships we have between our friends, family and places. He said that the book highlighted how vitally essential it is for us to be more aware of others. He rightly claimed that for most of us, we can at times be so unaware of the issues going on in other peoples’ lives.

He was fulsome in his praise for the generosity of people who devote themselves to helping others. He praised the writers of the poems, pointing out that it takes courage to dig deep and understand more about ourselves and those around us. None of us, he pointed out, are free from some issues in our lives and our involvement with others, whether in our families or the wider mass of humanity.

Paul Clifford, co-ordinator Kilkenny Involvement Centre, spoke about the genesis of the book. He told us how a strong body of written work emerged from the support, encouragement and cooperation of a variety of writers from The Involvement Centre, The Recovery College and the wider community.

Dr. Mike Watts, who officially launched the book, described this multi-faceted miscellany of poetry as a ‘narrative medicine’. He posed this question to the audience: “How well do we understand mental health?”

While we were left pondering our own response to this complex question Dr. Watts referred to his own path to

Author Gerry Moran picture with Jimmy Murphy at The Butler Gallery

Life, Love, Laughter a in new poetry colle Tom and Alice Kiernan at the Launch of ‘Much More Than Words’

his own understanding of himself. He discussed ‘growth vs breakdown’.

And as a reference to the ‘Much More Than Words’ collection he expanded on the importance of the shared experiences which led to the compilation of

Jane Meally from the Clogh Writers group, read her poem ‘Our Table’ at the Butler Gallery

this assembly of poems and prose.

“Our creative temperament,” he explained, “expresses itself through the arts. Poetry is a medium like water.

Dull stones shimmer and shine as soon as they are

Pat and Maura Griffin who attended the book launch of ‘Much More Than Words’ at The Butler Gallery

immersed in water. The water reveals the hidden beauty of the stones.

Likewise, words expressed through the medium of carefully crafted poetry, reveal fresh insights.”

“This book,” he concluded, “is about life

lived and how we relate to it.”

Some of the contributors to ‘Much More Than Words’ read their poems and gave us a flavour of what the book has to offer.

The varied offerings in the collection, although

Eileen and Paul Clifford at The ‘Much More Than Words’

diverse in their topics, cover love and loss, elation and sadness, childhood and old age, family, friendships and our world and all it has to offer.

Mary Woods, who represented The Recovery College, thanked all who

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Feature

Dr Mike Watts, who performed the launch of the poetry book ‘Much More Than words’ pictured with Clare Fitzpatrick , Team Coordinator at The Recovery College

Mayor of Kilkenny Andrew McGuinness, praised the work being done by The Recovery College and The Involvement Centre at the launch of the book ‘Much More Than Words

Martha Woodcock, whose poem ‘Remember’ brought laughter and emotion to the long gallery

nd Loss ction Butler Gallery for the book launch of

Angela Keogh from Bagenalstown who read her work ‘An Irish Poem’ at the Butler Gallery

had contributed to the book launch. To mark the event, Mary recited a poem which she had specially written for the occasion.

In conclusion, Ger Cody, who had kept the afternoon running smoothly, quoted words of the American

writer and poet Brianna Wiest.

“If someone is falling behind in life, you don’t have to remind them.

Believe me, they already know.

If someone is unhealthy they know.

Musician Tiernan Jones who entertained the gathering at The Butler Gallery with ‘Dance of the firebirds’ by Giora Friedman’ (classical/klezmer) and ‘Oh lady be good’ by Benny Goodman (jazz)

Mary Woods pictured with Fran Watts at the book launch of Much More than words’ Produced by The Recovery College and The Involvement Centre

Bernard Allon and Sandrine Dunlop, enjoying the evening at The Butler Gallery

If someone is failing at work, they know.

If someone is struggling in their relationship, with money, with self-image, they know.

It’s what consumes their thoughts each day.

What you need to do for

Some beautiful words about the late schoolteacher Tom Hunt, were read by Playwright John Mac Kenna at The Butler Gallery

those who are struggling is not to reprimand, but encourage.

Tell them what’s good about their lives; show them the potential that you see.

Love them where they are.

When we can’t see clearly

Sé Nicholson who read ‘No Hope Brings Hope’ at The Butler Gallery

Philip Perkins who was in charge of Book sales at The launch

for ourselves, we need others to speak greatness over us.

People don’t need you to tell them what’s wrong with their lives, they already know.

They need you to reassure them that they can still

make it right.”

Copies of the publication, ‘Much More Than Words’, is available to purchase at The Book Centre on High Street, Khan’s Bookshop on James’s Street and Bargain Books on the Butterslip.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

Community Community Group

Follow your heart

THEY say to follow your heart and you will (may) never look back. In 2013 Aneta Glowczynska decided she would do just that. Her Husband Sebastian had moved to Ireland, so she decided it was time to follow her heart.

Leaving her family and friends behind in Wodzislaw Slaski, she packed her bags and with her two children left Poland, flew to Dublin and on to Kilkenny and started a new life in the surroundings of Ireland’s medieval

city Arriving in Kilkenny meant she had to look for employment.

Now we all know doing something that is your passion means the days fly and, well, it does not feel like work. Her second love of her heart is fashion. With this in mind, she looked to the online shopping market and as we all know that locally in Kilkenny it could and should be stronger.

She began to put her clothing items online daily. Now starting

such a venture was risky but then she launched her services 18 months ago just when the pandemic was hitting us the hardest.

It seemed to be an advantage for her as more people were using the internet for shopping. She continued to put items up daily and they sold in high quantities.

What’s the nest step? Well bravely Aneta has ventured on to John Street and opened her own boutique, Anglow Fashions. Her passion is to make everyone feel special with her unique designs for all. The interaction online was good but now that Covid19 restrictions have eased, it is 100% better to meet and interact with the customers in person.

What about the online side of the business? Online will continue to serve her loyal customers built up over the covid19 lockdown as she said without their support, she would never have fulfilled her dream of working in the Fashion world.

Finally, we asked, will she and her family stay in Kilkenny?

She truly hopes so as she loves Kilkenny and the Kilkenny people she now calls her new friends, but her husband would still like to go home. We will see if she goes back to Poland and maybe follow her heart’s desire again?

Community Group

Kilkenny Youth driving in the ocean of opportunity...

Youth Inclusion Club Opening in Kilkenny.

The Honorary consulate of the Republic of Poland in Kilkenny, along with Twilight Community Group, writes a new chapter for the polish minority in county Kilkenny.

The newly formed youth club is an enormous chance for the young members of our community to develop their skills and boost their ability to speak their mother language.

Promoting the mother language of our members is the key foundation of our project.

Over the past years, the polish community has been struck by the absence of their mother language. In effect various young members of the society have lost their ability to communicate with their families in their home country. It is understandable that living on the Emerald Isle has contributed to the absence of the polish language. Most youth members of the polish community state that it is easier for them to use English whilst talking to friends.

We, as Twilight Community Group, aim to create a safe and comfortable space for every child. Workshops will be individually tailored to the age and aptitude of each member.

These workshops will be held in Polish as Twilight Community Group, aims to increase the amount of the polish language being spoken abroad.

We are truly delighted that a huge majority of adult members in the Polish community is eager to help our project.

Developing skills of our youth abroad is one of our crucial goals. All courses in our youth club will aim to increase the area of interest of each member. This is a great occasion for these young people. They have an opportunity to develop as people and as members of our society whilst expanding their interests and skills. We provide the best possible conditions, modern technology and a courteous, helpful staff.

“As Chairperson of the Twilight Community Group, I represent all our members and volunteers. It with this in mind I am delighted to announce our new project which is geared to the Youth and young members of our society. We are cognizant of the fact there are youth groups and organisations already available in Kilkenny. Like many of our initiatives we are here to compliment the current services and offer new and exciting opportunities for the members of the new TWILIGHT YOUTH INCLUSION GROUP (TYI) Our TYI will be led by our Youth members, and it is their ideas and proposals we will be supporting. It is open to all

members of society as we are an open and inclusive organisation supporting the youth of our ‘New Communities, LGBTQI, Traveller, local communities of all backgrounds.

TYI members will have access to our Erasmus + and

European programmes which offer European Travel through Youth exchange programmes, Diversity Training, Social Media Training and guest speakers and activities”, said Mr. Consul Martin Brennan.

Our project gives new hope

to all of the communities in Kilkenny city. New opportunities for the youth members. We invite all interested to join the newly formed TYI Youth Club.

You will not regret it!

Nicholas Lesniak

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Competition winners announced

Richie Reid, Mary Holden being presented with the yearly membership prize to Reid Health & Fitness by TJ Reid.

We at The Kilkenny Observer were delighted to team up with TJ Reid Health & Fitness to run a competition to win a year’s free membership to their gym

The Kilkenny

Richie Reid presents the yearly membership prize for Reid Health & Fitness to Oisín Kelly ( accepting on behalf of his brother Mícheál Kelly), TJ Reid.

Observer

COMPETITION WINNERS

Thank you to all who entered the draw, we had a huge response and a big congratulations to both Mary Holden, Knockbrack, Thomastown, Kilkenny and Mícheál Kelly, Kilmacow, Kilkenny who are the lucky winners.

Mary and Mícheál’s Brother Oisín Kelly were presented with the yearly membership prize by TJ and Richie Reid at the office of The Kilkenny Observer on Thursday last October 7th.

Thank you to both TJ and Richie and continued success to Reid Health & Fitness from all at The Kilkenny Observer.

S

ince the opening of TJ Reid Health & Fitness in 2017, they have been busy adding to their fitness facilities. In late 2020, they enhanced the gym by adding a new strength and conditioning area but unfortunately due to Covid, they were unable to let their members experience and enjoy the new facility but it is now open to members.

The gym floor area has been extended to over 15000 sq ft offering plenty

Siobhan Moore, Richie Reid, Mary Holden, Oisín Kelly, TJ Reid and Lorna Fletcher All pics by Amanda Burke

of space and equipment for everyone, from threadmills to cross trainers and the world famous Concept 2 rowing machine and skierg’s and the cardio areas has something for everyone.

Investment has continued in 2021, this time the studios have been improved with a new dedicated spin studio offering the very best in lighting and sound to bring members the very best spin experience possible.

New classes are in store for Autumn. A brand new program of classes has been devised for members and with the friendly staff on hand to meet with you and help you to experience the very best that Kilkenny has to offer in Health and Fitness, we have no doubt it will leave a lasting impression.

A team of experienced Personal Trainers are also on board at TJ Reid’s, among the very best in the country and all at Reid Health & Fitness are delighted to have them as part of the team.

To contact TJ Reid Health & Fitness Club call us on 056 4449015 or email us at info@reidfitness.ie

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Kilkenny Day

The Driver family

Enya Kiernan, Teresa Clarke and Shauna Coyle

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Cara at drumming School

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Kilkenny Day John, Freyaand Lyndsey Campbell

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Dine Me Food & Drink

Come

Your wine glossary: Part 3

With

Slow-cooked pork, cider & sage hotpot Preparation and cooking time

• 400g Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes • 400g sweet potatoes

Prep: 40 mins Cook: 3 hrs Serves: 6

Method

Warm up as the cold nights set in with this glorious hotpot, with slow-cooked pork cooked in cider and sage. It’s topped with a crispy layer of potatoes Ingredients • 4 tbsp olive oil, plus a little extra • 1kg diced pork shoulder • 20g butter, cubed, plus a little extra • 4 leeks, trimmed and thickly sliced • 4 garlic cloves, crushed • 3 tbsp plain flour • 500ml dry cider • 400ml chicken stock • 2 bay leaves • ½ small bunch parsley, finely chopped • small bunch sage, leaves picked, 5 left whole, the rest chopped • 200ml single cream

STEP 1 Heat half of the oil in a deep ovenproof frying pan, or flameproof casserole dish, and fry the pork pieces over a medium high heat in batches until seared all over, then transfer to a plate. Add another 1 tbsp oil to the pan, if you need to, while you’re cooking the batches. Once all the pork is seared, transfer to a plate and set aside.

STEP 2 Add another 1 tbsp oil to the pan with a little butter and fry half the leeks with a pinch of salt for 10 mins until tender.

Add the garlic, fry for a minute, then stir in the flour.

STEP 3 Pour in the cider, a little at a time, stirring to pick up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan and to combine everything.

Add the stock, bay leaves and

Throw a Halloween party and serve these fearsome pumpkin and feta pies. Perfect for little hands, kids will enjoy helping to make them in the kitchen Ingredients • 450g butternut squash or pumpkin peeled and cut into 2cm chunks (prepared weight) • 2 garlic cloves • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 small onion, finely chopped • 250g plain flour, plus extra for dusting • ½ tsp ground turmeric • 125g cold butter, cut into small pieces, plus extra for the tin • 2 egg yolks plus 1 whole egg, beaten • grating of nutmeg

• ½ tsp chilli flakes (optional) • 200g feta, crumbled Method STEP 1 Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Tip the squash and unpeeled garlic into a roasting tin, drizzle with 1 tbsp oil, season and toss to coat. Roast for 30 mins, stirring halfway through, until soft.

Remove from the oven and leave to cool.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, cook the onion in a frying pan over a medium heat with the remaining 1 tbsp oil for 8-10 mins until tender and slightly golden. Leave to cool.

STEP 3 Tip the flour, turmeric and a pinch of salt into a food processor. Add the butter and whizz until the

Malolactic Fermentation A secondary FERMENTATION that is biological, in which harsh malic acid is converted into softer lactic acid.

Methode Champenoise The traditional and best way of making a sparkling wine. EU has banned the term from bottles not made in Champagne, so look out for “Methode Traditionelle” or “Fermented in this Bottle” instead.

seared pork, then simmer, halfcovered with a lid for 1-1½ hrs until the meat is just tender (it will later cook to the point of falling apart in the oven). Can be prepared a day ahead.

STEP 4 Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the sauce, if you need to – it shouldn’t be too liquid or the potatoes will sink into the sauce. Stir in the parsley, chopped sage, remaining leeks, and the cream, then season well.

Mini pumpkin & feta pies Prep: 40 mins Cook:1 hr and 10 mins Serves: 6

Maderised A fault whereby the wine has OXIDISED and overheated giving it a brown colour and burnt, stale taste.

Not a fault in Madeira wine, which deliberately goes through a heating process to caramelise the wine.

mixture resembles fine crumbs.

Add the egg yolks and 2 tsp cold water, and blitz again until the mixture starts to clump together.

Squeeze it between your fingers – if it sticks together, tip the mixture onto a work surface. If it’s too dry, add more water, 1 tsp at a time.

Knead the pastry a few times just to bring it together, but don’t overwork it. Shape into two circles, one slightly smaller than the other, then wrap in baking parchment and chill in the fridge for at least 20 mins.

STEP 4 Squeeze the garlic from its skins into the roasted squash and mash together. Add the fried onion, grate over some nutmeg, tip in the chilli flakes, if using, and feta, and mix.

STEP 5 Butter six holes of a muffin tin and

Nose Tasting term. Wine is assessed by taste (the PALATE) but also by smell (the nose).

Oenology The science of winemaking. Spelled Enology in the US.

STEP 5 Peel both types of potatoes and cut into slices 2mm thick, by hand or using a mandoline.

Alternate layers of potato and sweet potato in circles over the pie, or randomly, if you prefer.

Dot the cubed butter over the top and bake for 1-1½ hrs until the potato is tender. Nestle in the whole sage leaves, brushed in a little oil, for the last 10 mins. Leave to rest for 10 mins before serving. line each with a strip of baking parchment that overhangs the top. Roll the larger circle of pastry out on a lightly floured surface to the thickness of a £1 coin. Use a 10cm cutter to stamp out six circles (you may need to re-roll the pastry to get all six). Press the pastry circles into the prepared muffin tin, patching any cracks with the pastry offcuts. Spoon in the squash filling.

STEP 6 Roll the remaining pastry circle out as you did the large one, but use an 8cm cutter to cut out six lids. Cut spooky pumpkin faces into the lids using a small, sharp knife. Press the lids over the pies in the tin and brush with the beaten egg. Bake for 40 mins until golden brown, then leave to cool for 10 mins in the tin before lifting out. Eat hot or leave to cool completely. Will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days or the freezer for up to two months.

Reheat in a low oven for 10 mins, if you like.

Oxidation/Oxidised What happens to the surface of a cut apple when exposed to air. Grapes and grape juice oxidise if not handled carefully. Bottled wine will also oxidise if the seal is not airtight.

Palate Tasting term. Wine is assessed by smell (the NOSE) and by taste (the palate). The palate confirms flavours detected on the nose, but adds BODY, ACIDITY, TANNINS, FINISH, etc. to the picture.

Phenolics Compounds found in wine, mostly coming from grape skins. These include TANNIN and flavour compounds. Also important in making wine beneficial to health: lowering blood pressure and risk of heart disease.

Phylloxera The louse that eats vine roots. Devastated Europe in the late nineteenth century until it was discovered that American rootstock was resistant. Since then, most European vines are grafted onto American rootstock. Ironically, the Californian industry was badly damaged by Phylloxera in the 1980’s and 90’s after planting on low-resistance rootstock.

Quinta Portuguese term for an estate or vine farm. “Single Quinta” Port comes from a single vintage and farm.

Racking Labour intensive process of siphoning wine from one barrel to another in order to leave some sediment behind and gradually clarify the wine.

Recioto Italian wine made for grapes that have been dried on mats after harvest. This raisins the grapes, making them very sweet. Amarone is made from Recioto grapes, but fermented out fully to be dry and concentrated.

Remuage French term for the process by which the dead YEAST cells in maturing Champagne and other quality sparkling wines are gradually moved into the neck of the bottle before being removed.

Traditionally done by hand, more often nowadays by machine.

Concludes next weeks

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TV & Streaming

The true story behind Maid NETFLIX viewers enjoy an excellent true story adaptation, and the streamer is happy to oblige. The most recent comes in the form of a Netflix original miniseries entitled Maid, reviewed last week.

In this series, Margaret Qualley plays the lead, Alex, and is joined by her real-life mother, Andie MacDowell, who plays Alex’s mother Paula. Alex is a single mother who takes her daughter and leaves an abusive relationship to find it challenging to make ends meet on her wages as a housekeeper.

The series is already a massive hit.

But is Maid a true story?

The series is based on the memoir of Stephanie Land, titled ‘Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, And A Mother’s Will To Survive’. She drew on her own experiences as a housekeeper making a meagre $9 an hour to support herself and her daughter. She had aspirations of attending college and becoming a writer when she became pregnant after dating a guy for a few months. But, that relationship became abusive, and she took her child and went out on her own.

Land would eventually attend college and pen her memoir which turned into a 2019 bestseller. She then sold the right to Netflix, and producers John Wells and Margot Robbie worked to fictionalise the story to adapt to the series.

After attending and graduating from the creative writing program at the University of Montana, Land would do freelance writing and then a writing fellowship with the Centre for Community Change.

We’re still waiting to find out if Maid season 2 will happen.

It’s unlikely, but based on the popularity of the Netflix original series, it could happen if all the parties involved were interested in continuing this story.

This fine 2021 British drama excavates a whole lot of buried treasure with a distinguished cast in Carey Mulligan, Ralph Fiennes, Lily James and Johnny Flynn. It’s based on the true events around the 1939 excavation of Sutton Hoo, yielding a priceless trove of Anglo-Saxon artefacts hidden in a burial ship. Romantic, intellectual and moving, The Dig is a full sweep of elegance.

A black-and-white David Fincher tale from last year about the unsung screenwriter Herman Mankiewicz who helped Orson Welles write Citizen Kane. Step back into Old Hollywood, with beautiful cinematography and take in the behind-the-scenes of how studio systems functioned in a different time. Gary Oldman and Amanda Seyfried are among the exceptional cast of this biographical drama filled with the lightness and darkness of its hero’s life.

Falling into the movies that make you cry category, Pieces of a Woman is an emotional well that’ll steep you in melancholy. Martha’s home birth leads to a schism in her marriage as her life falls to pieces.

Known for its opening 24-minute childbirth one-shot, this portrait of grief will ultimately take you to poignant places.

Plus, see Vanessa Kirby put in her career best performance.

Imitation of a life: Margaret Qualley and screen daughter Maddy, with the real-life Alex, Stephanie Land, and her daughter

Season 2 for Apple’s Foundation APPLE’S highly anticipated show Foundation premiered just two weeks ago, but even so, fans will be thrilled to know that Apple has just renewed it for its second season, according to Variety.

Head of Programming for Apple TV+, Matt Cherniss. thanked the global audience who “embrace the captivating, suspenseful and breathtaking

5

movies to watch now on Netflix

thrill ride” that is Foundation, which will return for a second season. However, details about when season two will premier are currently unknown.

“We know how long fans of these beloved Asimov stories have waited to see his iconic work brought to life as a visually spectacular event series and now we can’t wait to showcase even more of the

richly layered world, compelling storytelling and stunning world-building in season two,” he said.

Foundation is a chronicle based on Isaac Asimov’s award-winning sci-fi novels.

The series is described as “a complex saga of humans scattered on planets throughout the galaxy all living under the rule of the Galactic Empire”.

The main cast includes Jared Harris, Lee Pace, Lou Llobell, and Leah Harvey — with David S. Goyer as showrunner.

Interestingly, only three of the 10 episodes of Foundation‘s first season are so far available on Apple TV+, so Apple seems to be quite confident in the show’s future to confirm another season so far in advance.

A movie about divorce might not sound like the best viewing experience, but Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story from 2019 is a journey you’ll want to take.

Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver give two of the best performances of their careers as Nicole and Charlie, a couple who embark on the emotionally and logistically complicated legal processes involved in prying a partnership apart. Painted with an emotional complexity that includes poignantly funny moments along with the painful ones, this is happy-sad at its best.

Also from 2019 and set primarily in Vatican City, this biographical drama follows Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio in the aftermath of the Vatican leaks scandal. It’s as fascinating as it sounds. The Two Popes carves up a slice of real-life drama with a first-class two-hander featuring Jonathan Pryce and Anthony Hopkins.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

Feature

Mary retires as day care centre manager PHOTOS: JBSPHOTOS KILKENNY ST. MARYS Day Care Centre is losing their much respected manager Mary Mason after seven years in the role.

She brought great vitality, respect, and empathy to her role and will be fondly remembered by the clients, volunteers and committee.

She was wished all the best for the future in a farewell get together in the centre on Thursday last and presented with flowers from all connected at the centre.

­

She will be sadly missed by all Chairman at the centre Eamon Corcoran presented Mary with a bouquet of flowers to mark the occasion.

Community Group

Romanian Twilight Community Group meeting with the new Ambassador of Romania to Ireland

BY LIVIU IFTIME

THURSDAY the 08th of October the Romanian Twilight Community Group met with the newly appointed Romanian Ambassador to Ireland, at the Romanian Embassy in Dublin, 26 Waterloo Road.

On this occasion we presented, the groups past and future activities, partnerships, and ideals and also promoting Kilkenny and Carlow region to the Ambassador.

We have learned that the Ambassador agrees with TCG’s philosophy of working together with other communities as per TCG motto: “Communities are Stronger Together”.

Following the meeting H.E. Laurentiu-Mihai Stefan is very keen to visit the Romanians in Kilkenny and not only.

H.E. expressed his interest in meeting with local politicians,

business owners and anyone else with interest in Romania.

“We were honored with the presence of the Chairperson of Twilight Community, joined by three hearty Romanian collaborators, who represent at the same time the group of Romanians from Kilkenny and Carlow. So convincing they were (promoting Kilkenny and its people n.a) that we have to go to the two cities to convince ourselves of the success their multicultural projects are and especially to meet the Romanians there and listen to their life stories.” (Text translated from Laurentiu-Mihai Stefan Facebook page) Twilight Community Group is very happy to host the official at some time in November 2021.

The Ambassador was presented with Twilight Community Group’s Tree of Life plaque and a folder containing a summary of the Romanian’s Twilight Community articles from our local newspaper The Kilkenny Observer.

H.E. wanted to send a

message to all Romanians to participate in the local political life, both by joining Irish political parties and by registering to vote to the local and general elections where possible.

Who is the new Romanian Ambassador to Ireland?

His Excellency Mr. Laurențiu-Mihai ȘTEFAN Laurenţiu-Mihai Ştefan was accredited as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Romania by decree of President Klaus Iohannis on July 21, 2021.

Laurenţiu-Mihai Ştefan is a specialist in political sciences, analyst and researcher of Romanian political life, with diplomatic experience gained

during his term as presidential adviser (2015-2021) and as a specialist in political issues of the US Embassy in Bucharest (2004-2015).

Laurenţiu-Mihai Ştefan graduated from the Faculty of Political Sciences of the University of Bucharest in 1996, four years earlier, he obtained a bachelor’s degree from the Faculty of Mathematics, computer science department, of the same University. Professionalization in the field of political science was first at the University of Cambridge, UK, where he obtained an MPhil in 1998 in the politics and sociology of modern societies, then in various research intern-

ships at the Institute of Human Sciences in Vienna (2000), at University of Maryland (2001, 2002) and at the College of New Europe in Bucharest (1999-2002). The title of doctor in political sciences was obtained in November 2003, when he defended his thesis on the recruitment of political elites in post-communist Romania, within the National School of Political and Administrative Studies (SNSPA) in Bucharest.

Laurențiu-Mihai Ștefan began his teaching career at the Faculty of Political Sciences of the University of Bucharest in 1999. In 2002 he obtained the title of university lecturer. In parallel with the responsibilities associated with the position of specialist in political issues of the US Embassy in Bucharest (2004-2015) and later as an advisor to President Klaus Iohannis (2015-2021), Laurențiu-Mihai Ștefan continued to teach hourly courses within the profile faculties of the University of Bucharest, SNSPA, Babeș-Bolyai Uni-

versity of Cluj-Napoca, and West University of Timișoara.

Since February 2021, he is an associate professor at the Faculty of Political Sciences of the National School of Political and Administrative Sciences in Bucharest. Laurenţiu-Mihai Ştefan was also a researcher at the Institute of South-Eastern European Studies of the Romanian Academy (1995-1999).

He was, for more than two years (1998-2000), a political analyst at the Mediafax news agency. Together with colleagues from the profile faculties in Bucharest and in the country, he founded the Romanian Society of Political Sciences (SRSP), the only profile company active at that time in Romania, which he led for five years (2000- 2005).

Since 2002, Laurențiu-Mihai Ștefan has been involved in many pan-European research projects, being a country expert in projects on parliamentary and ministerial elites, governing coalitions and the presence of technocrats among members of the government.

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Sport

CALLAN LADIES GOLF

This week will see the last of the Major Competitions for the Ladies when President Glen Wilson will hold his Prize for the ladies. Also Saturday 16th, the last 18 hole of the season will take place with *The End of Season Prizes* always a very popular event on the calendar.

We will change to our 12holes for the winter season.

Results: The S.E. Junior Alliance was held at Dundrum Golf Club on October 5th where two of the Callan Ladies featured from a very large field of entry.

Ann Croke taking 2nd place while Maria Gorey came 5th.

Well done ladies!

Last week’s 3 person team event was won by Pauline O Brien/Rita O Neill/ Noelle O Driscoll. The 9 hole winner was Mary Croke. The senior ladies 12 hole was won by Helen Tuite with 26pts

Hurling and Camogie in Coláiste Pobail Osraí GAELIC games are well and truely back on in Coláiste Pobail Osraí. Beginning with an in-house challenge match on Friday 24th September between students from 1st and 2nd years, boys and girls took part and made for a fine display of hurling and camogie. From the throw in, the school’s core values of effort and positivity were exemplified. It was great to see young people playing our own sport in our own language!

Some of the first and second year boys then took part in an interschool blitz in Dunmore. The lads put in a great effort against Scoil Aireagal and Coláiste Dúisce. Trainer, Múinteoir Lughaidh Ó Néill says that he is proud and delighted to be involved with this group of young players.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

News Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

JUNIORS BOW OUT The season came to an end for the Clara Juniors on Tuesday of last week when they lost out to Ballyhale Shamrocks 2-19 to 3-14 in Dunmore in a knockout championship game. However the Clara lads died with their boots on in a very entertaining affair. They lost their full back Dermot Nolan early in proceedings to a shoulder injury but substitute James Dowling filled in well and Clara got to the first water break 0-6 to 0-5 behind. By half time they had fallen 1-10 to 1-7 behind, the Clara goal coming from Jim Kehoe after a good James Casey run and pass.

The third quarter saw Clara close the gap to 1-14 to 1-12, their five points in this quarter coming from Joe Connolly (2), Jim Kehoe (2) and Luke Whelan.

When Ballyhale opened the last quarter with a goal and a point they seemed to have finally broken the Clara resistance.

However an on fire Jim Kehoe responded immediately with a goal and two points from Peter Nolan and Killian Phelan from a monster free had the margin down to a point and the game back in the melting pot.

It was Ballyhale who dug deepest however and four points in a row from play saw them home, despite a late goal from Luke Whelan. The Shamrocks were served well by veterans Bob and Mark Aylward, who were wily throughout.

Apart from the opening score of the game Clara never led, but they bravely and vainly chased the game the rest of the way. Credit to the team for never giving up, and credit too to manager David Mulrooney and his selectors Mick Barcoe and Mark Shortall.

Team - Bill Cody, Evan Whearty, Dermot Nolan, Noel Kehoe. James Casey, Garry Kehoe, Alan Coleman. Stephen Quinlan, Killian Phelan 0-2, 0-1f. Luke Whelan 1-1, Joe Connolly 0-6, 0-5f, Dara Glynn. Conor Booth 0-1, Jim Kehoe 2-3, Peter Nolan 0-1. Subs used James Dowling, Noelie O Brien.

SENIORS A bad week for Clara hurling was completed on Sunday in O Loughlins when Tullaroan inflicted a 1-29 to 2-19 extra time beating on the Clara Seniors in the quarter final. Remarkably these two teams were tied after each of the four quarters and it was veteran Tommy Walsh’s goal in the first two minutes of extra time that gave Tullaroan the impetus to push on and win comfortably in the end. His brother Padraig was the best player on view and finished the game with seven points from play.

In a disappointing end to a season that looked to have promise only a couple of weeks back, Clara’s tactic of a third midfielder and a two man full forward line failed to work for the second game running and they lacked variety in their play. Best on show for them here were Kevin Nolan, Jack and David Langton, Seán O Shea until he had to retire with injury, Matt Kenny and substitute Peter Nolan. Credit to the management team of Kevin Ryan, Neil White, Tom English and Brian Kennedy for their efforts this year. See Kilkenny Observer sport section for full report and photographs.

CAMOGIE SENIOR Clara senior camogie girls played out a hard fought draw against St. Martins in Coon on Sunday morning. That result was enough for Clara to finish second in their group and go directly into a quarter final in two weeks time. They got off to a flyer here with Margaret’O Connell finding the net after just a minute.

However the St. Martins girls knuckled down in their full back line after that to give little leeway to their opponents from there on. Mary‘O Connell pointed a free just before the water break to give Clara a 1-1 to 0-3 lead.

Three further Mary O’Connell points in the second quarter helped Clara to a 1-4 to 0-5 lead and this gap was maintained through the third quarter, thanks to two more Mary’O Connell points. 1-6 to 0-7 was how it stood going into the final quarter.

An early fourth quarter St. Martins point was responded to in kind by Emma

Shortall and there was stalemate then for most of the quarter. But with less than five minutes to go St. Martins regained the lead when a speculative cross was doubled on in the air and ended up in the net. With two minutes left Clara earned a free forty yards from goal near the sideline. Up stepped Keara Ryan and coolly stroked it over to earn a valuable point for the Clara girls.

Now Clara face into a quarter final but they will know that they have to step up their form on this performance. They will hope that their few injuries heal up quickly to give them the chance of at least matching last years achievement of reaching a semi final.

Team - Lucy Cody, Gráinne Glynn, Laoise Nolan, Katie Ryan. Tamsin English, Aisling Curtis, Claire Nolan. Aisling Nolan, Rebecca Nolan. Keara Ryan 0-1f, Niamh Byrne, Mary O Connell 0-6, 0-4f. Emma Shortall 0-1, Margaret O Connell 1-0, Catherine Murphy. Sub used Siobhán Curtis. Aoife Glynn, Anna Walpole, Niamh Ward, Niamh Brickell.

U14 The Clara U14s lost their Roinn C County Final in Thomastown on Saturday, but not before giving their opponents Ballyhale Shamrocks an almighty scare. In fact Clara got more scores than Ballyhale but goals win games and the Southerners were more adept in that department and ran out 5-8 to 1-13 winners.

Having lost heavily to Ballyhale in two earlier meetings this year, Clara laid their cards on the table early here as they came with a defiant attitude from the beginning. The first quarter ended at three points apiece, with Clara’s scores coming from the stick of Lucy Boyd.

Clara were to remain heavily reliant on Lucy for their scores throughout whereas Ballyhale had a much better spread of scorers. Their forwards were more dangerous throughout and had the Clara rearguard under constant pressure.

Nevertheless the driving play of Pia Langton and Lucy Boyd at midfield was keeping Clara right in it.

This game changed midway through the second quarter when Ballyhale scored three goals in as many minutes.

Goalkeeper Ava Kenny wasn’t in any way at fault for any of them. In fact she almost pulled off a miraculous save for the first of those goals, by getting a heavy hurl on a blistering shot, but she was unlucky to see the sliotar creep inside the post. Eight points down, these Clara girls had every opportunity to give up the ghost, but they were having none of it. They replied immediately with two points of their own.

It was 3-4 to 0-6 at half time but when the Southerners extended that lead to 4-7 to 0-7 midway through the third quarter, it looked done and dusted.

Again Clara came back and had it back to 4-8 to 1-9 by the water break, the goal coming from a Lucy Boyd strike from distance.

The fourth quarter began with 4 points in a row for Clara, all from play. They really had the bit between their teeth now and the Shamrocks were visibly rattled. However their defence stood up and their goalkeeper and captain Naoise Moran was magnificent. Clara had a number of brilliant goal attempts turned away in their attempts to close the gap below four points. Time was running out and right on the stroke of full time Ballyhale scored a goal to give them a somewhat flattering seven point victory.

However it must be stated that they were the better balanced team overall and deserved their win.

These Clara girls had given it their all and that is as much as you can do. As manager Eamon Dunne pointed out to them afterwards, they were a credit to their families and their club. Likewise with Eamon and his fellow selectors Padraic Brennan, Aine McDonald and Aoife Glynn. Ava Kenny was very solid throughout and could not be faulted for anything that beat her. The full back line of Lucy Kealy, Maria Hogan and Aisling Hayes were unyielding in their play. Onagh Fitzgerald, Sarah Dunne and Caragh Brennan defended resolutely in the face of a lot of pressure from a very dangerous Ballyhale half forward

line. Pia Langton and Lucy Boyd did as much as they possibly could in midfield to try and pull this one out of the fire for Clara. The half forward line of Danica Tervit Krueger, Jessica Brennan and Amy Bergin were industrious throughout while Ceola Leamy, Moya Kelly and Katie O Connell and later Aoibhe Callery and Brooke Flynn worked tirelessly to try and keep the ball in the danger zone whenever it arrived. With six U12s in their ranks it was a brave, committed performance by the Clara girls and many of them look to have very bright camogie futures ahead of them. Well done girls!

It was a great achievement to reach a county final and your turn will come if you stay plugging away.

Team - Ava Kenny, Lucy Kealy, Maria Hogan, Aisling Hayes. Onagh Fitzgerald, Sarah Dunne, Caragh Brennan. Pia Langton 0-1, Lucy Boyd 1-11, 3 x 45s, Danica Tervit Krueger, Jessica Brennan, Amy Bergin 0-1. Ceola Leamy, Moya Kelly, Katie O Connell. Subs Aoibhe Callery, Brooke Flynn, Faye Morrissey, Katie Boyd, Orla Carrigan, Aoibheann McDonald, Amy Lynch.

U16s Clara u16’s Camogie won their Quarter Final clash with Erin’s Own/Naomh Brid on Sunday 3rd October under lights in Ballyraggett. Despite having only fourteen players available, Clara took the lead in the first quarter and refused to let Erin’s Own/Naomh Brid’s numeric advantage count This young Clara team of two u16’s, four u15’s, six u14’s and two u13’s fought and competed for every ball and showed the greater hunger to win.

They never relinquished their lead from the second quarter on, winning out on a final score of 3-9 to 2-5. Well done to the girls. Clara - Ava Kenny, Danica TervitKrueger, Rachel Brickell, Rachel Lakes, Samantha Tervit-Kruger, Faye Lannen, Sarah Dunne, Aisling Hayes, Emma Corr, Pia Langton, Jessica Brennan, Lucy Boyd, Katie Agar, Brooke Flynn.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winners of tonight’s club lotto (October 5th) Numbers drawn were 8, 17, 27, 28 Bonus 7. Next week’s Jackpot will be €7,600 ( October 12th) Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com/ lotto Promotors Draw: 1. Leo Monagle c/o Michael Monagle 2.

Francis Walsh c/o Benny Walsh 3.Tanya Cody c/o Mary Cody 4. Dan O’Driscoll 5. Mick & Mags c/o Gerry Buckley 6. Jim Rohan c/o Neil Loy7.

Esther Maher 8. Kevin O’Brien c/o Online 9. Lillian Holohan c/o Online 10. Nigel Leydon c/o Online Thank you for your continued support TEAM NEWS It was a great weekend for O’Loughlin Gaels Hurlers with the Seniors and Intermediates advancing to the next rounds of their respective championships. The seniors win over Mullinavat on Saturday sees them through to a County Semi-Final v Tullaroan in two weeks time. One we’ll all look forward to. The intermediates put in a brilliant performance on Sunday at Castlecomer to best Gowran and book themselves into the Quarter Final v Thomastown at Bennettsbridge on Sunday 17th October. The club ask supporters now to get behind our teams for the coming weeks. Thanks to team sponsors Pat Carroll’s, Ballybought Street for their continued support The O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie intermediate team were narrowly beaten in their final group game last weekend but with two wins under their belts already the girls were already assured of their place into the knockout stages of the Championship. Fixtures for all games will be posted on the clubs pages so please support our teams. Thanks to camogie team sponsors MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre for a their support LEAVING CERT IRISH ORAL WORKSHOP

Ceardlann Agus Ciorcal Cómhrá na hArdteiste.Monthly Workshop for the Leaving Cert Irish Oral Exam .Johnswell community hall Sat Oct 23rd, Sat Nov 27th and Sat Dec 11th.Contact : 087 667 3302 ALL-STAR NOMINATIONS We are delighted that O’Loughlin Gaels club players Paddy Deegan and Huw Lawlor are once again nominated for an all star award in recognition of their efforts with Kilkenny hurling. Well done Padfy and Huw - lovely hurling BE A LOYAL SUPPORTER McCarthy’s Eurospar Ireland are the clubs juvenile sponsors. Part of the deal is we support them in their business and we are asking all members and supporters to please sign up to the stores club loyalty scheme. You don’t need to be a member,just a shopper. Sign up in store, earn your points every time you shop for discounts and deals,every point you earn O’Loughlin Gaels teams also earn for equipment and jerseys for our Juvenile teams. The club facilitates boys and girls from the local community and Eurospar Newpark Shopping Center are helping to give back into the locality.

Please support,please sign up,and let’s reap the benefits for our youths together.

O’Loughlin Gaels GAA wish to thank the McCarthy Family and Eurospar Ireland for their continued support of our club.

COUCH TO 5K A couch to 5k takes place from O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club carpark each Monday at 8pm . All are welcome

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm.

Single books and 1 sheet €10; Double books and 2 sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

Split the Pot: Purchase an envelope for €2 next weeksfor the Hurling Field Development for your chance to share the pot.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO October 4th prize fund was: €4,800.

Jackpot: €2,800.

Numbers drawn: 1, 18, 21 and 24, bonus no 29. No winner and no match three winner.

Promoters prize: H. Roche.

Five lucky dips of €20 each: Mick Ryan, Jack Gleeson, Emily Roche, Theresa Kennedy, Geraldine Burke.

Next draw takes place on October 11th in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

URLINGFORD ON THE MOVE WALKING TRACK Works are commencing shortly for Urlingford on the Move’s new Community Walking Track in Emeralds GAA Clubgrounds, Urlingford, Co Kilkenny.

The walkway consists of: Walking surface, lighting, fencing, wheelchair friendly and own access gate.

Our vision is to provide a facility in Urlingford where everybody has the opportunity to be welcomed, to participate, to grow and be inspired to continue with a lifelong engagement in our community.

Urlingford on the Move have been successful in raising funding from various sources but there is still a shortfall, therefore we need and value your support.

You can support this wonderful amenity by donating €20 on their GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/84e0e081 for your chance to win one of three prizes: 1st: €2021; 2nd: €200; 3rd: €50 Donate €50 - three chances to win; donate €100 - seven chances to win a prize.

Envelopes have also been distributed to households in the locality, please return these envelopes to the Post Office. Draw takes place on October 24th 2021.

SPINATHON 2021 Urlingford Town Development are holding their annual spinathon for Urlingford Christmas Lights on Saturday next, October 16th.Get your sponsorship card from any committee member

or support our cyclists by sponsoring them.Help to raise funds to ‘Light up Urlingford’ this Christmas!

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Weekly Food Donations: We are now working with “FoodCloud” to ensure that unsold food from supermarkets does not go to waste. Every week we receive food donations which we distribute in Urlingford and surrounding areas. If you, or anyone you know, would benefit from this, please make contact with the Centre.

Save the Date: Christmas Knitting/ Crochet Fair on December 2 in the Centre. More details to follow.

Courses Beginning Soon: QQI Level 4 LTI, Pathway to Employment course: We are enrolling for the QQI Level 4 LTI course which will be commencing in October.

This course covers a wide variety of modules and includes Driver Theory and Lessons. Places are limited so don’t miss out, call us today on 056 8838466.

Vacancies: We are currently recruiting for the positions of Local Training Initiative Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator.

Please contact us for full details Community Bank Savings: Are available at the Centre. Please contact us for more information on opening an account.

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

Counselling Services: Addiction support, adult, teen (aged 12 plus) and family low cost counselling services are available, please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment on 056 8838466.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of teen addiction and general counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre. Contact Sue on 056 8838466 For full details of the services we provide, please call in, or alternatively, visit our Facebook page Millfrc or website www. millfrcurlingford.com URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT Draw takes place every Sunday evening in the Urlingford Arms Hotel. Last Sunday’s share of the pot was €517 and was won by Kai Fennessy Finn, well done Kai!Next week half the pot goes to Hurling Field Development and the other half could be yours. So don’t miss out, get your envelopes from businesses in town or from any member of the committee.

NEW CAREER Castlecomer Discovery Park is delighted to announce the second year of its Foundation Programme in Adventure Tourism, run in partnership with Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board.

The programme includes Raft Building; Orienteering; Forest therapy; High Ropes Instructor Training; Bush craft; fire craft and shelter building; Archery; Nature studies and biodiversity; Team building; Canoeing; Ecology and local heritage; Bike skills and ICT skills.

Learners do not need any previous formal qualification and no previous experience is required. It is particularly suitable for learners who wish to progress to employment or further education and training.

This course is suitable for young adults in receipt of a DSP payment who would benefit from transitioning back into Education/Training in a very supported environment.

If you are a young person aged 18-26 then apply at www.fetchcourses.ie using the code 332393 or contact KCETB Training Services on 056 7813014 / tsu. recruit@kilkennycarlowetb.ie URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

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

Keep Moving Congratulations to Brian and Imelda Kelly Ballylarlkin whose greyhound won the Derby Trial Stake on Sunday last at Cashel and qualified for the Derby trial stake at the National Meeting in Clonmel in February next. Keep Moving is owned

by Imelda and trained by her husband Brian.

Day Centre Freshford Day care centre will recommence on Wednesday 20th October at 2pm in the GAA Club rooms.

The Centre has been closed since the start of the pandemic. It is hoped to see all the former members back and new members are also very welcome, both male and female. You can expect a cup of tea and a chat and some bingo. The Daycare centre was greatly missed by the people during the pandemic and so it is great to see it back.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Maura Delaney and all the Delaney family on the death last week of Declan Delaney late of the Square Ballyragget. Declan was well known in this area and was a keen follower of the Coursing Club. Burial took place in St. Finnans Cemetary Ballyragget following the funeral mass.

SOCCER Freshford Town underage teams were in Action at the weekend. The U11 boys traveled to Evergreen to face the city side and came out winners on a 7-4 scoreline.

Scorers for Freshford were Patrick O’Connor who netted four, Max O’Neill getting two and Fintan Martin getting the other one.

The U13 boys played at home and had a 5-0 win against Highview Athletic with goals from Paddy McCarthy, Nathan Walsh, Jack Marn elll, Tristan O’Kane and Patrick Brennan U8s The training sessions for U8s will resume on Saturday next at the Sportsfield at Woodview from 12noon to 1pm with Gary in charge as usual. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up.

First Communion Congrats to the Sixteen children from Second class of last year received their First Holy Communion at St.Lachtains church recently. The boys and girls have been waiting since last May for their big day which was put back due to the Covid Pandemic. Monsignor Kennedy performed the ceremony and he paid tribute to the children, their parents and teachers Ms.Furney and Mr. Flood for the manner they were prepared for the sacrament.

The following children received their first holy communion:Andrew Dalton, Ethan Brennan, Olly Crosby, Tom Dalton, Bill Looby, Fionn Condon, Lochlann McCarthy, Senan Walsh, Iarla Carroll, twins Bill and Ella McGree, Aoibh Carroll, Katie Ryan, Caoilainn O’Rourke, Devina Butler and Emma Deacon.

IONAD LACHTAIN This year’s harvest thanksgiving took place on Sunday evening last at St.Lachtains Church with a good crowd.

Minister Malcom Noonan TD gave a short address and acknowledgement of a recent bequest from the Acorn Club and the late Gerry O’Reilly.

St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre reopened recently and will be open from 11.30a.m to 4.30p.m on Saturdays and from 12.30p.m to 4.30pm on Sundays. New display cabinets have been installed and filled with a host of interesting artefacts and some beautiful craftwork is also on sale. So why not drop in and see for yourself TIDY TOWNS Freshford tidy towns committee thank all their loyal volunteers who helped out over the past weeks on Church Street clearing weeds along the pavement on each side.Almost all the street furniture throughout the village have now been painted in their trademark vibrant red since the group returned after the

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

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kilkennyobserver.ie

News Community & GAA Notes pandemic. If you spot a seat that has not yet been painted please let them know.

GAA NEWS St.Lachtains Intermediate hurlers faced into championship action last weekend when they took on John Locks of Callan in the opening round of the championship. A tough game throughout the local lads come out winners with five points to spare The next game is the Championship Quarter Final against Carrickshock with a time, date and venue to be confirmed. Please keep an eye out on social media for updates.

Team: D.Brenann, P White H Burke P White,, S.Rafter B quinn J.Cleere, C.O’LearyJ.Fitzpatrick, A.Rafter, J.Maher,D.Maher L Hickey S.Donnelly C.Dawson, Subs N.McGree C.Bergin and M.Donnelly Heritage & Development Group Freshford Heritage Group are delighted to announce that the path resurfacing in the Millennium Park has now been completed. Hopefully this work will prove to be a more pleasant walking experience for everyone who uses the park. The committee acknowledge the grant received from Kilkenny County Council under the Community Enhancement Programme from the Department of Rural ad Community affairs. Also thanks to the Acorn Club for helping to fund the shortfall in funding required. They would appeal to the public to manage any dog fouling in the park, especially on the paths and to use the facilities (scoop, brush & bin) located inside the entrance gate.

PARISH NEWS There is an increase in attendance at Masses up to Fifty per cent of the capacity now since the lifting of further restrictions on 8th September .Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 8pm. While the obligation to attend Sunday mass is still suspended you are encouraged to return. At this time all safety measures will remain in place which includes wearing of masks, social distancing and hand sanitising and full sanitation of the Church after every celebration NOTICES The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish Office.

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

As part of the 1400 year celebrations plans are being put together for a montage of photographs of the Church and Parish’s through the years. If you have any photographs that you think would be appropriate for such a display please call or get in touch with the Parish Office. The plan is to copy the photographs so be assured all original photographs will be returned to its owner.

MASS CARDS Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number.

HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone

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

Good News. Bingo Resumes St.Eoghain’s Centre Kilmoganny Saturday 23th October at 8.30 pm. Up to € 2,000 in prize money.

Local Lotto Draw for 4th October 2021 Winning Numbers : 17,23,27. No Winner.

Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30. Emer Wallace ( Ellen Delehunty ),Alison Bergin ( Declan Donohoe ), Maga Cuddihy ( Breda Smyth ), Kathleen Browne ( Pauline Walsh ),Gavin ) Keeffe ( Ed. Moran ) Jackpot next week (October 11th) € 2,800 Draw 11th October is in Townsends Bar at 9.00 pm. All welcome.

DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP We are creeping it real in Dunnamaggin for our next market in the Old School on October 31st from 11.30am to 4pm.

As well as lots of stalls selling all kinds of crafts, paintings and food, there will be a Pop Up Café selling hot food, homemade cakes and tea/coffee. As it is a Halloween themed market we are encouraging everyone to dust off their Witches Hats and Broomsticks and come in fancy dress. KeepSake Photography will be on hand to take a snap from 12.30p.m to 1.30pm . All entries for the Pumpkin Carving Competition to be left with Cyndi of KeepSake Photography between 11.30am to 12.30pm. Come along and join in the fun. Covid guidelines will be adhered to. Our third Community Spirit Award is open for nominations from all parts of the parish Kells, Kilmoganny and Dunnamaggin - private message our Facebook page ( Dunnamaggin Community News) with the name of the person you think is deserving of the award - include your reasons why or write it down and stick in the postboxes at the Old School and the gate of Madge’s Garden. Closing date is October 31st and nomination forms will be available at the Halloween Market. We hope to present the award during November with an event funded through grant aid received from Kilkenny County Council.

Mobile Library-will visit Kilmoganny at 3.30pm and Kells at 4.10pm next on November 3rd. Membership is free, including online books, magazines and learning courses. Enquiries to Library HQ tel 056 7794160 Calling all Community and Not for Profit Groups: All groups who have a volunteer focus big or small are invited to nominate their group for our Inaugral Community and Voluntary Awards 2021 to be held in The Ormonde Hotel on 2nd December . These awards will be an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy and the commitment of our community and voluntary groups across Co Kilkenny and recognise the significant role volunteers play in enhancing the quality of life in their communities.

(Particularly in light of the past 18 months) Group Nomination categories include: Arts, Culture & Heritage -Health & Community Wellbeing - Environment and Sustainability - Social Inclusion -Social Enterprise Community - Covid 19 Group Supports Along with these categories we have one special individual award Covid 19 Volunteer Hero Award : This award is to celebrate an individual volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution to their community throughout the Covid19 pandemic. The winner of each category will receive a cash prize sponsored by local Kilkenny businesses along with a specially crafted trophy by a celebrated local craftsperson. The closing date for nominations is Wednesday 20th October. See www.volunteerkilkenny. ie for nomination forms and more information. Again thank you all for your continued support and I would encourage all local community groups to nominate themselves as soon as possible and to put as much information they can into the forms. Winners will be

selected by an adjudication panel from people outside of Kilkenny .

THE STORYTELLING SERIES Free Communications Training for Community and Voluntary Groups The Storytelling Series is an exciting FREE training series which will enable us all to feel confident about communicating our value! Public awareness is vital to maximising the work we do, and this series is all about amplifying our impact.

Whether you’re a large charity or a voluntary group with limited time and no budget, this training is open to you!

Easy Graphic Design with Canva with Ronny Hermosa (Canva, Fair Trade Connection) | Weds, 13 October, 10.30am - 12noon How to Be a Spokesperson for your Organisation with Eleanor Kelly (UCD Innovation Academy, Open Society Foundations) | Weds, 20 October, 11am – 12.30pm.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL MOBILE LIBRARY SERVICE The mobile library will next visit Gowran from 11.35a.m-12.00 noon on November 5th and December 3rd. Membership is free. Just bring ID. The staff look forward to meeting all the locals. Enquiries to Library Reception (056) 7794160 GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT The course reopened on Monday, 11th October following the recent work on the greens.

GOWRAN A.C. If you are looking to run a marathon, 10mile, 10k, 5k or just get out for a run then you need to join the club on Thursdays at 8pm at Applegreen in Paulstown. There is a run, then a coffee/ tea/water and chat afterwards. Try a night for free and then join the club for €30 if you want to run weekly.

Text Eamonn 086 878 2489 if you are trying out a night.

GOWRAN PARISH Mass is being streamed every morning on Gowran Parish Facebook page, masses this week Gowran Sunday at 11.30.am, Monday at 9.30.am, Wednesday at 9.30am, Thursday at 9.30. am and Friday at 9.30.am.

GOWRAN PARK Gowran Park is open from 12pm each Sunday for Sunday Lunch, two courses €16 ,three courses €20. All guidelines will be adhered to at all times so please remember to bring photo ID /vaccination card as it is required, there is will also outdoor space operating, All staff are fully vaccinated , You do not have to be a member to dine and walk ins are also accepted. Call William (0860230255) or Edwina (0830345224).

FOROIGE Foróige has become one of the fundamental stepping stones for young people as they navigate from their teenage years to adulthood. This is made possible by communities embracing their young people and providing outlets for them to socialise and develop in a safe and caring environment. Clubs led by a team of volunteers, usually meet for 60 - 90 minutes weekly. There are different types of Foróige clubs to cater for young people of varying ages (10 - 18 years) and interests.

For communities exploring the possibility of a Foróige Club there are three main ingredients needed to make this happen; adult volunteers, young people and a place to meet. If you are interested in finding out more please contact Rosie O’Brien, Foróige Regional Youth Officer on 086 299 7677 or email rosie.obrien@ foroige.ie Calling all Community and Not for Profit Groups All groups who have a volunteer focus big or small are invited to nominate their group for our Inaugral Community and Voluntary Awards 2021 to be held in The Ormonde Hotel on 2nd December .

These awards will be an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy and the

commitment of our community and voluntary groups across Co Kilkenny and recognise the significant role volunteers play in enhancing the quality of life in their communities. (Particularly in light of the past 18 months . ) Group Nomination categories include: Arts, Culture & Heritage Health & Community Wellbeing Environment and Sustainability Social Inclusion Social Enterprise Community Covid 19 Group Supports Along with these categories we have one special individual award, Covid 19 Volunteer Hero Award : This award is to celebrate an individual volunteer who has made an outstanding contribution to their community throughout the Covid19 pandemic. The winner of each category will receive a cash prize sponsored by local Kilkenny businesses along with a specially crafted trophy by a celebrated local craftsperson.

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday 20th October. See www. volunteerkilkenny.ie for nomination forms and more information.

SPORTS ROUND UP – Michael O’Leary Fitzgerald’s inspire Gowran girls to another victory The Young Irelands Senior girls completed their Group Stages of the Senior League with another victory last Sunday Morning, as they held off a spirited challenge from Windgap to win 1-16 to 2-9 in Gowran following a thrilling contest on a most glorious Summer like October Morning.

The Gowran Girls have improved with each outing, and unquestionably their hand has been massively boosted by the return of the Inter-County Contingent plus a whole host of other players who were absent throughout the Summer.

Young Irelands led throughout from start to finish, and an eight minute goal from Grace O’Donnell gave them a 1-2 to 0-1 lead.

Further points from a Steffi Fitzgerald (f) and Sarah Ann Quinlan stretched the lead further in the twelfth minute (1-4 to 0-2), before the South Kilkenny girls settled with a brace of points by the first Water Break. 1-4 to 0-4.

Young Irelands responded, and they re-asserted control & dominance gaining supremacy around the middle third area.

The prolific Steffi Fitzgerald was unerring from frees, and she constantly added to their account, and they restored their five point lead heading towards half time.

However, Windgap were handed a lifeline and a long range effort from Denise Gaule ended up deceiving the Young Irelands goalkeeper who was blinded by the Sun. The Gowran Girls now had a 1-8 to 1-6 lead at the interval following a most enjoyable half hours action.

Young Irelands started the SecondHalf strongly & points from another Steffi Fitzgerald free, along with efforts from play by both Grace O’Donnell & SarahAnn Quinlan restored that fivepoint gap. 1-11 to 1-6.

Windgap kept plugging away as Denise Gaule - operating at Midfield - added points from both play and frees as Young Irelands led 1-13 to 1-9 at the three quarter stage.

Following the Water Break, Steffi added another free before a long distance Windgap free flew all the way to the net as the match entered the last 10 minutes. 1-14 to 2-9.

However, the Gowran Girls dug deep when it was needed most with the Fitzgerald Sister’s Tiffany & Steffi leading the way Tiffany was a colossal throughout and she was at her most dominant when the game was in the balance during those final 10 minutes, while Steffi was flawless from placed balls.

The Inter-County Senior scored about 0-11 from placed balls & that included two late frees, with her superb long distance free from midfield at the end of injury-time concluding the Scoring to ensure victory.

Overall, it was a very strong and determined performance by Young Irelands

Nicole Carter got through a lot of good work at Wing-Back, Ciara O’Keeffe was quite effective in Midfield, while the tireless working Sarah Ann Quinlan posed a constant threat anytime she was in possession.

Meanwhile, the Young Irelands Minors produced a superb second-half performance as they came from behind at half-time to defeat O’Loughlin Gaels 5-8 to 4-5 and qualify for the Roinn C Championship Semi-Final.

The O’Loughlin’s girls led 3-2 to 2-2 at the interval, but the Gowran Girls took over and dominated the Second Half and they now have a Semi-Final to look forward to in the coming weeks.

Loughlin’s late first-half blitz proves costly Huge Disappointment for the Young Irelands Intermediate Hurlers, as a late first-half blitz from O’Loughlin Gaels proved costly to the Gowran Men’s hopes.

A Low scoring first twenty minutes saw the city men lead 0-4 to 0-3, before producing a very strong finish to the remainder of the half as they outscored Young Irelands 1-6 to 0-1 to lead 1-10 to 0-4 at the interval.

It was a Mountain to Climb for the Gowran Men, and despite their best efforts, they could never in any way seriously threaten O’Loughlin’s aspirations.

Paul Holden, JP Treacy and Sean Kehoe were adding points to keep the Scoreboard ticking over, but O’Loughlins were still in control heading towards the Final Quarter as they led 1-15 to 0-11 with Billy Leydon & David Burke proving a thorn in the Young Irelands defence.

The pattern of the game remained the same throughout that closing quarter and despite Young Irelands grabbing a last gasp consolation deep into injurytime, O’Loughlins were certainly more than full value for the 1-19 to 1-14 victory at full-time.

Young Irelands now play Dunnamaggin in the Relegation Semi-Final on the October Bank Holiday Weekend.

Strong club representation for development squad Five Players from the Young Irelands Club were called into the U-17 Kilkenny Squad for Trials ahead of the 2022 Minor Season.

Bobbie Brennan, Ben Phelan, Jimmy Conlon, Cian Phelan and David Langton were in attendance in MW Hire TC Dunmore at 6.30pm sharp next Monday, October 11th.

HORSE RACING There was further success for Gowran horse trainer Jimmy Barcoe in Downpatrick last Friday when his 40/1 shot Kingston Retreat - which the winning trainer also owns - landed the Irish National Hunt Stallion Owners Maiden Hurdle Despite going off the outsider of Six Runners at Fancy Odds, Kingston Retreat with Cathal Landers ran out an impressive winner by just four lengths ahead of the Gavin Cromwell Trained Midnight It Is, with the Henry De Bromhead Trained Gigginstown Owned Fissa back in Third.

It was the Second win for the Gowran Native in six days after his Influential Lady was an impressive winner of a Handicap Hurdle in Gowran Park last Saturday Week.

Jimmy also had a runner in the race after Kingston Retreat’s race when Courting Vickie finished sixth in the MB McGrady Chartered Accountants Handicap Hurdle.

Courting Vickie was making a quick reappearance having finished sixth in Tipperary (Limerick Junction) last Sunday, while on Sunday in Limerick, his newcomer Kool Kal ran an encouraging race to finish fourth in the Bumper.

SENIOR HURLING The Senior Hurlers played James Stephens on Sunday in UPMC Nowlan Park and were beaten by a point in a tight finish. Hard luck to our lads. 2-16 to 2-15.

CLUB BAR

The Clubhouse Bar re-opened on Friday for the first time since March 2020!The Committee have been busy, the lights are on and the shelves are stacked.

We will be launching the Dicksboro Development Draw for 2021 also.

Vaccination Certs required and table service will be in place.All are welcome.

COFFEE DOCK Our new coffee machine was up and running in our clubhouse coffee dock area on Saturday morning for the Boro camogie County Minor semi final match vs St_Brigidscam in Palmerstown at 11.30am. Thanks to Aidan Maher and Catherine Hehir Peters for organising.

U15 C HURLING Hard luck to the Boro U15 B team who were beaten on Saturday in Castlecomer against a strong Fenians team. Our lads did really well to make the C semi final. Well done to all the players and management for a great year.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results October 2nd Nos: 4– 6– 29– 30 Jackpot: €4800– not won Draw Prizes – €50: Sean Moore c/o online €25 each Pamela Costelloe c/o online €25 each Niamh MacSweeney c/o online €25 each Pippa Ryan c/o Tom O’Donoghue €25 each Deirdre O’ Reilly c/o Tom Rafter Promoters prize – P and J Cody Next week’s (October 7th) Jackpot – €4,900 .

We are encouraging every Dicksboro family to support the Clubs Fundraising efforts by signing up to the Club Lotto. https://dicksborogaa.com/categories/ lotto Pitch Side Business Adverts: Should your business want to arrange an advertising hoarding at our Club grounds click here for details: https://www.dicksborogaa. com/products For any queries contact any committee member. https://www. dicksborogaa.com/contact (Camogie contact runai Ted Carroll (086) 837 6544) KILMANAGH SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Chris Doheny and family, Killeen on the death of his mother, Kitty recently. May she rest in peace.

CALENDAR 2022 The year is moving along and soon it will be time to produce our annual Naomh Aodhán Community Centre Calendar for 2022. It has been a great success for the past number of years and was well received by advertisers and the general public alike. To have your business or group included, talk to Pat Brennan on 087 673 7727; Alan Trayer on 087 756 7643 or Gerry Dunne on 087 224 5712 or any of the Naomh Aodhán Committee members before November 3.

At €60 for a spot, it’s very good value for a calendar that’s distributed widely and for FREE. RIVER RANGERS SOCCER Winner of the River Rangers Golden Goal (Liverpool v Man City) Competition was Martin Murphy. Congratulations to Martin and thanks to all who supported this fund raising venture.

Saturday October 16 - Under 12 Schoolboys League - Paulstown 06 v River Rangers at 11am.

RUNNING Running continues in Callan each Thursday evening at 7pm. Well done to all our members who are training for the Kilmanagh marathon. Just eleven sleeps left until the BIG day. Please support Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team on https://gofund.me/f9c2fc76.

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.

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters

Sport

Defending starts with the attack

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Following a pulsating weekend of knock-out action, the semi-final line-up for the St Canice’s Credit Union senior championship is now known. More about that later.

O’Loughlin Gaels 2-19 Mullinavat 0-19 The weekend action began with the meeting of O’Loughlin Gaels and Mullinavat in Ballyhale.

County defender Paddy Deegan lined out again at full-forward and is appearing to revel in orchestrating proceedings in the No. 14 jersey! When the going got tough in the final quarter, Deegan retreated to midfield to nullify the growing Mullinavat threat.

Indeed, it was Deegan that raised an early green flag for the Gaels, that sent them into a 1-2 to 0-2 lead after just 5 minutes. Mullinavat almost hit back immediately, only to be denied following a great save from Gael’s keeper, Stephen Murphy. The sides continued to exchange scores before the lively Owen Wall assisted Mark Bergin who took full advantage and doubled his side’s lead. The placed ball would be the source of most scores for both sides, with James Bergin (1-10) and John Walsh (0-10) displaying great accuracy from frees. It would be the two first half major’s that’s would be the difference on the long whistle, as Andy Comerford’s side avenged their league defeat to secure the first of the semi-final berths.

Tullaroan 1-29 Clara 2-19 The bookies had Clara as favourites for this last eight clash at St John’s Park. Having reached the league final recently, Kevin Ryan’s side had been expected to progress from their clash with the Sash, but former county star, stalwart and legend, Tommy Walsh had different ideas!

This contest had a really championship feel about it, there was certainly an edge to it, both on and off the pitch. Those in attendance added to the bubbling atmosphere, and the players from both sides fed off this to produce arguably, the best clash of this year’s championship to date.

As both teams ‘sparred’ with each other, the sides were level at the first water break, 4 points apiece, and they could not be separated on four occasions in the first 20 minutes of play as the score board controller had a quiet start to their day. The teams reached the interval level, 8 points apiece.

Clara looked to have found the key when substitute Peter Nolan hit the net three minutes into the second half, but the Sash kept the score board ticking over to leave the sides tied once again at the second water break. The fear of knock-out hurling was clearly weighing heavily on players’ minds, as both teams were making uncharacteristic errors. Chris Bolger looked to have given Clara the upper hand when he raised his sides second green flag of the day, but this Tullaroan side never shy away from battle, and thanks to Shane Walsh’s accuracy from frees and an incredible display from his brother Padraig, the match went to extra-time. In the additional 20 minutes, it would be the Walsh household that drove the Sash to the semi’s registering all their sides scores, including a goal from Tommy.

James Stephens 2-16 Dicksboro 2-15 Rivalling Tullaroan and Clara’s clash as game of the season, these two old derby foes served up a feast of hurling in the Autumn sunshine at UPMC Nowlan Park. Seamus Dwyer’s side got off to a great start, with a Tadhg O’Dwyer goal giving them the upper hand just before the end of the first quarter, but the Boro had other ideas. Goals in quick succession from Andy Gaffney and Aidan Nolan stunned the Village, before two further points, including one from Mark Nolan in his own half left Dicksboro four up, before a brace from Matthew Ruth kept his side within 2 points at the interval. The city sides continued to trade scores and it was the impressive Cian Kenny that kept the village in touch in a game in which they trailed for long parts. The introduction of experienced duo Eoin Larkin and Conor Browne appeared to lift the Village players and they drew level with 10 minutes remaining thanks again to the lively Kenny. Páraic Fanning must have thought his side had done enough to make the last four, thanks to points from Bill Sheehan and Robbie Fitzpatrick, but on an extraordinary day of hurling, corner-back Shane Donohue went on a mesmerizing run which culminated with the defender firing to the net in the 58th minute. Man of the match Cian Kenny then struck again and despite Gaffney’s late point it wasn’t to be for the Boro.

Testing the jersey

And then there were FOUR! Sash prevail as Shamrocks start to sizzle

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Hurling matters Luke Scanlon driving forward

Mossy says thou shalt not pass!

No letting go!

Shane strikes!

Ballyhale Shamrocks 0-27 Bennettsbridge 1-15 Title holders Ballyhale signaled their intent to claim a 4th senior title in a row with a masterful second-half performance against newly-crowned league champions, Bennettsbridge.

The Shamrocks raced into an early 4-point lead thanks to scores from Eoin Cody, Colin Fennelly (2), Liam Barron and TJ Reid, with just a solitary Ciaran Brennan point the only score for the Bridge in the opening exchanges as the holders showed their teeth.

To their credit, the league champions hung-in and scores from Nicky Cleere (2) and William Murphy, left just the minimum between the sides at the first water break. Ciaran Brennan then notched his second point before some slack Shamrocks defending allowed Jason Cleere the chance to goal, which he duly did. Eoin Cody and the again impressive Cuddihy replied with scores, before a third point from Brennan left the Bridge two points ahead after 20 minutes.

The sides traded scores for the remainder of the half, and at the short whistle, the sides could not be separated. Ballyhale emerged from the interval with more belief and the air of county, provincial and All-Ireland champions. They reeled of a 3-point salvo in the opening stages of the second period, and then continued to pick-off scores with ease, as champions do.

Shamrocks found themselves 7 points ahead at the second water break. The damage had been done.

Bennettesbridge would only score once from play in the second half, their four other scores came from placed balls.

Such a scoring return was never going to deliver victory.

Ballyhale moved through the gears and had a 27-point total to show at the long whistle. While manager James O’Connor would perhaps have liked his side to raise a green flag or two, he will have been pleased with the showing, and possibly his sides most complete performance of the club season to date.

Ominously, the Shamrocks march on.

St Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny SHC semi-final draw: Ballyhale Shamrocks v James Stephens Tullaroan v O’Loughlin Gaels (Ties to be played weekend of October 24)

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Ouch!

Championship hurling. Nothing like it. Fans were treated to four quarter-finals each with their own special ingredients.

Normally forwards steal the headlines, and we did have some great displays across the weekend, Eoin Cody, Joe Cuddihy, Cian Kenny, Shane Walsh, to name but a few.

But on this quarter-final weekend it would be players that we would normally associate with the art of defending that would steal the show.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Paddy Deegan, Padraig & Tommy Walsh and Shane Donohue!

Mr. Deegan kicked things off on Saturday scoring 1-1, before dropping deeper to stem the rising Mullinavat tide.

Many fancied beaten league finalists Clara to end Tullaroan’s season, but the Sash backed by the Walsh’s ripped up that script. While former county star Tommy took was highlighted for nabbing a goal in extra-time to power his side ahead, it would be the performance of current inter-county No.6, Padraig that was the real driving force behind the perceived underdogs battle to reach the final four.

As Padraig roamed forward, he notched 0-7 on the day. Not to be outdone by his siblings, forward star Shane weighed in with 0-12. Driving on the sash from wing-back was captain Martin. The Walsh men would contribute 23 points of their sides 32 total. Tullawalsh!

In the 58th minute of a championship quarter-final with your side 2 points down, it’s just your normal corner-back running up the field and raising a green flag with a finish that any forward would be proud of to send his side through against their derby rivals. Step forward James Stephens Shane Donohue.

Rounding off the weekend’s action was the clash of the current league and championship holders.

Having beaten Shamrocks in the league a few weeks back, Bennettsbridge were intent on keeping their season going a little longer, while Ballyhale still have four-in-a-row on their minds.

Notice to all pretenders to their county crown – They haven’t gone away you know!

While the first half may have been a little bit of shadow boxing between the sides, Tj & co upped the ante and the tempo in the second half and pulled well clear of the Bridge. The attacking trio of Tj Reid, Eoin Cody and the fast-improving Joe Cuddihy contributed SIXTEEN of their teams total of twenty-seven. At the other end of the pitch, the pleasing aspect of the Shamrocks afternoon’s work, will have been that they restricted their opponents to just one point from play in the second period.

Like a fine wine, Ballyhale are maturing each and every year, and more worryingly, for the three remaining ‘pretenders’ it appears each and every game.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 15 October 2021

Hurling News matters

Sport

All on the line as relegation looms St Canice’s Credit Union (Kilkenny) Senior Hurling Relegation, Venue: Pirc Lachtain, (Relegation Semi-final), Erins Own V Graigue Ballycallan 15:00

St Canice’s Credit Union (Kilkenny) Senior Hurling Relegation, Venue: Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan, (Relegation Semi-final), Lisdowney V Rower Inistioge 15:00

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

While the ‘top table’ dine out next weekend to see who will make it to the championship final, there are a couple of fixtures with perhaps greater significance taking place tomorrow.

For the four teams involved this weekend, each know that what is at stake for their clubs for next season could ultimately decide if some players stick around or decide to travel and or work abroad for a while.

All clubs want senior competitive status retained, but not all will see this wish come true.

Erins Own V Graigue Ballycallan t

een a to g ea on for t e a tle o er o tfit. e leag e a a gn y elded only o nt ron ally t at a e aga n t to orro o onent en t ey fin ed a e e at o lan ar . art n ogarty de ll e o ng t at t e re ent defeat to t e a ll r arge on to orro . ey ll loo to ey en a ggy ane ee an o n o d and onor ogarty to g ve t e t e r ng oard to get a t t e r o onent . ea ra y fro t e la ed all o ld on e aga n rove r al and n ggy r n n ll e o ng radar on t e oney at a r a ta n o e on at rday. or ra g e t ll e a a e of o t of t e fry ng an and nto t e fire a t ey try to regro follo ng defeat to older ally ale la t t e o t. onent o v o atta ng ar ory f t ey are to l ve gene loonan no tea ll need to n ll fy t e r o one to fig t anot er day. ell a ee ng t ng t g t at t e a t e o yall ar de ll need t e yan ean and llly onor r y and o n y to ee t e ore oard t ng over. e free ta ng o onent ean yan ll e een to lot over any o ort n t e g ve fro la ed all en t e an e o e .

VERDICT – Erins Own to book final survival chance

Lisdowney V Rower Inistioge

ever tea e erge v tor o fro t la ll no t at an even arder attle a a t . a t year nter ed ate a on nner do ney ll loo to t at final n along t a de ent leag e a a gn and a red le d lay aga n t oro a rea on to e o t t en t ey ta e on o er to orro . ndeed t e r o nt defeat to la t year eaten o nty final t o ed t e a et te and de re t nt e a a t ey a e fro a long ay a to lo e y t e narro e t of arg n . t all level of rl ng yo need a rel a le orer fro la ed all and n dan all t ey ave a tr ty and en t o e to free . do ney ll o e t at all rennan ael enny and t e arroll onor and av d arry t e fig t to t e r o onent to orro . f t ey lay l e t ey ave o n n t e leag e aga n t llaro llaroan and a e te en ere t ey olle ted a o nt n ea ga e do ney ll e onfident. tand ng n t e ay of do ney are t e n red ta le o er n t oge. t a roved to e an e tre ely d ffi lt ea on for e ea y and o. ey ere t e only de not to reg ter a o nt n t e leag e. ey ave learly tr ggled t n r e and for and en t ey too on o g l n ael n t e a on t ey ere on t e rong end of a o nt defeat. e o er orter ll no t at t e r de ll need to rod e a ea on e t erfor an e to tand any an e to orro . ea y ll need to e gely ro nent t e ll need t e ort of o n r en a al and a ta n ane yan to a e t a o et t ve ga e. f do ney get off to a good tart t o ld e a long afternoon for t e o er ta e all ded to earl er t de f anyt ng n red ta le. ga e really ard to all.

VERDICT – Lisdowney to hang on in there (possibly)

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Sport

Three things for runners to consider when including gym work into their schedule EOIN EVERARD

WHEN considering adding gym work or Pilates into your schedule it is first important to ask what is the benefit? It can be difficult enough to find time for running yet alone supplementary training, so it is important to ask is it worth it? As a runner in his mid-thirties that ran sub 14 minutes for 5K and sub 8 for 3K this year, I would say yes! I have seen two main benefits from doing gym and Pilates that make it an essential part of my routine.

The first main benefit is reducing injury risk. If you think of the injuries sustained in running, they are nearly all injuries to the passive structures of the body. Achilles’s tendon, plantar fascia, knee tendon, hip pain etc. Distance runners very rarely get muscle tears. This is because running doesn’t really engage the muscles. Our muscles can get lazy and do not do their share of the work.

Therefore, this can overload the passive structures of the body mentioned and cause injury. Especially as we get older it is important to use Pilates or gym work to get the muscles working. This “wakes” the muscles up so that they help the passive structures of the body absorb the shock and forces from running and help us stay running injury free.

Secondly, Pilates and Gym work can also help power production. Not only is power vital for the end of a race or but also for improving your running economy (the effort you use to run).

Running economy relates to how efficient we are when running. Think of a car with flat tyres. It might have a great engine (VO2 max) and it might be very fuel efficient (good lactate threshold). However, if the tyres are flat it is going to burn a lot of fuel. This is the

same with running. Yes, we need to develop our aerobic engine but we also need to be as efficient as possible so that all the force we generate is helping us move forward and is not wasted.

Several studies have demonstrated that developing core stability and strength through Pilates and gym work can significantly improve running economy.

These are the two main reasons I include gym and Pilates in my routine. However, it is important if starting a gym or Pilates routine that you consider these three important factors.

3 key things to consider when doing Gym or Pilates 1. Don’t over do it.

While I have outlined the benefits of Pilates and gym work, it is important to highlight that these should be supplementary to running training. Too often I see athletes get too obsessed with gym work and it can negatively impact their running. Gym work in particular can cause Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS), so it is best to do it either on the same day as your workout or the day after. In this way it doesn’t make you stiff and sore for your key workouts in the week. I believe until you get comfortable with a gym or Pilates routine once per week is sufficient.

2. Focus on exercises that help your running and keep you safe.

Quarter squats are more effective for runners than full squats as they replicate the range of motion that occurs in running compared to full squats. A single leg deadlift is a great exercise for distance runners as it works balance and also helps to strengthen the whole posterior chain, thus taking pressure off the calf muscles and Achilles.

With core exercises, only do core stability exercises i.e. exercises that keep the trunk stable, such as plank, bridge etc. rather than exercises that move through the trunk i.e. sit ups and back

extensions. The stability exercises replicate the way we want the core to work during running where as sit ups do not. Not all gym or Pilates moves are created equally. Therefore, make sure you pick exercises that other runners include in their programmes.

3. Focus on good technique first.

As a chartered physiotherapist it is so frustrating seeing people hurt themselves when they were trying to get fitter and healthier.

A lot of times this comes from athletes doing gym or Pilates exercises with poor technique. Not only can poor technique increase your chance of injury it also reduces the results you will see in your running. This is due to a phenomenon called Arthrokinetic Inhibition. This fancy term basically means that if the joints are not in a good position, then the muscles around that joint will not contract fully. So not only will you possibly hurt yourself with poor technique you will also not see the benefits you should to your running.

For this reason, I have developed the BackAware Belt (www.backawarebelt.com ).

This is a wearable technology that gives you instant feedback on your low back position. This allows you to know when your back is in a good position or a poor position. With this feedback you can track and train your lifting technique during gym moves and Pilates or core exercises. Using the BackAware Belt and following the tips given above should really help you get more out of your running.

Email everardpilates@ gmail.com to be in with the chance of winning one of these by entering our raffle.

Eoin Everard is a chartered physiotherapist with a PhD in Biomechanics. He is the founder of the BackAware Belt (www.backawarebelt.com ) and Sports Pilates. For a free week’s trial of Sports Pilates visit www.everardpilates.com/ sportfreetrial

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Memoriams/Miracle prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning permission is sought by Mr Peter Purcell to erect A – A three storey nursing home building B – With vehicular access from public road.

C – A single storey ancillary services building D – Parking areas and service yards E – Sewage treatment plant and percolation area F – Private borehole well supply And all associated site development works and site boundary treatments at (Garrandarragh, Mullinavat, 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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

NOW OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.30am to 12.00pm

CAR WASH – 056 7726289 TYRE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

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Glass & Glazing Services Advertise Window + Door Repairs Units, Hinges, Locks Repaired or Replaced your Legal Mirrors Cut Toughened Glass/Security Glass Notices/Licence All Domestic & Commercial work undertaken Applications with Call Jerry 0894976758 jerharding66@gmail.com us at The Kilkenny Observer.

Call: 056 7771463 / 086 2395370 or email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie for extremely competitive rates.

Call 056 7771463 for all your classified advertisements.

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

O ’ N E IL L A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T Sheila (nee Hanrahan) Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny.

7th September 2021 Elizabeth, Philip and their families wish to convey their sincere gratitude to all those who sent Mass and sympathy cards, left messages of condolence online, sent floral tributes, attended Vigil prayers, Rosary and Requiem Mass and sympathised with them on their recent sad loss of their dearest mother.

A special thank you to Rt. Rev. Mgr. Michael Ryan P.P. for celebrating a most beautiful Requiem Mass.

To Rev. Patrick Carey, Chaplin, our sincere gratitude for attending to our mother’s pastoral needs while she was in hospital.

To Mr. Paddy Coady funeral director and his staff for their kindness and professionalism. We wish also to thank Dr. K.S.V. Prasad, Sheila’s GP and the staff of St. Luke’s Hospital for their wonderful care.

Please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our heartfelt thanks and deepest appreciation. The Holy Sacrifice of Mass will be offered for your intentions as a token of our gratitude.

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

The Miracle Prayer

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

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.

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

(never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request.

(Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

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

Sheila’s Months Mind Mass will take place on Sunday, 17th October at 11.00am in The Church of The Immaculate Conception, Castlecomer.

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. R.T

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.M

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

TO PLACE YOUR NOTICE IN THE KILKENNY OBSERVER IN MEMORIAM DEATH NOTICE ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCES OFFICE AT UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET (Straight across from the Friary Church)

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.S

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.ON

CALL TO US AT THE OFFICE AT ANY TIME Monday – Friday 9.30am to 5.30pm (We are open during lunchtime) Bring the picture and the verse, we can scan the picture and return it to you while you are at the office.

EMAIL TO accounts@kilkennyobserver.ie Email the picture and the verse to us accounts@kilkennyobserver.ie and include your telephone number.

We will call you to confirm and you can pay by card over the phone.

BY PHONE 056 7771463 You can also place your notice by phone.

We can take the verse from you over the phone and the picture can be sent by WhatsApp. PLEASE NOTE All pictures and verses will be held on file for future years

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.D

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. S.B

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