Kilkenny Observer 16th August 2024

Credit Unions’ loan plea

Call on Central Bank to relax tough limits and let mortgage market expand

Finance Minister Jack Chambers is among those calling on the Central Bank to relax the tough limits it has imposed on credit unions – preventing them from expanding in the mortgage market.

Credit unions already offer the cheapest mortgage rates in the market, but many end up having to turn away customers because they quickly exhaust what they are allowed

to lend to its many members.

The Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) has in the past said its members were “handcuffed” by the restrictive lending limits for mortgages prescribed by the Central Bank.

Minister Chambers has joined calls from a prestigious international network of credit union regulators in calling for the Central Bank here to allow credit unions to expand

Teaching an old horse new tricks...

Scientists have discovered that horses are much smarter than previously thought, after a study showed the animals performed better than expected in a complex reward-based game. Researchers found that when denied treats for not following the rules of the game, the horses were able to instantly switch strategies to get more rewards. It shows the animals have the ability to think and plan ahead – something previously considered beyond their capacity, scientists from Nottingham Trent University (NTU) said. Knowing how horses learn can help carers train them more humanely and improve their welfare, the team added.

Dr Carrie Ijichi, a senior lecturer in equine science at NTU, said: “Horses are not natural geniuses, they are thought of as mediocre, but this study shows they’re not average and are, in fact, more cognitively advanced than we give them credit for.”

this type of mortgage lending.

The US-based International Credit Union Regulators’ Network (Icurn) carried out a peer review of how the Irish Central Bank regulates credit unions here.

It concluded that recent changes to credit union legislation would be nullified if the mortgage restrictions were not changed. The Icurn report concluded:

“Without some liberalisation of the limits and flexibility, the Amendment Bill may not have the anticipated positive impact.”

It also urged the Central Bank to complete a longpromised review of mortgage lending by credit unions.

Mr Chambers implied to Independent TD Marian Harkin in a Dáil reply that he agrees with this conclusion.

“The Central Bank are currently conducting a review of the changes to the lending framework introduced in January 2020, with an initial analysis expected by H2 2024,”

Mr Chambers said.

“I trust the Central Bank will reflect on the views of the credit union stakeholders and the Icurn report when considering any potential amendments to the regulations.”

Jailed sex offenders jumps fourfold

The Irish Prison Services has confirmed to Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchú in a freedom of information request that there were 692 sexual offenders serving sentences in Irish Prisons at the end of May 2024. This is four times higher than the equivalent figure for 2018, when just 172 sexual offenders were housed in Irish prisons.

Only eight of the 692 sexual offenders currently in Irish prisons are taking part in the Building Better Lives programme, the Irish prison service’s flagship treatment programme for sex offenders in custody. Just 15 prisoners completed the programme in 2022, with 29 prisoners completing the programme in 2023.

According to figures obtained from the Irish Prison service, 175 sexual offenders were released back into the community in Ireland in 2023, many of whom had no rehabilitate treatment whatsoever.

Ms Ni Mhurchú, a barrister, has described the figures as worrying and said there is something fundamentally flawed with the manner in

which we deal with sex offenders in Ireland. According to the Irish Prison Services, offenders who avail of treatment are three and a half times less likely to reoffend.

Ms Ni Mhurchú has called on the Minister for Justice to include a raft of incentives to ensure that participation rates amongst sexual offenders in Ireland in the Building Better

Lives programme increases.

“It costs the state €85,000 annually to keep one sexual offender in prison. Surely, we can do better when it comes to participation in rehabilitative programmes to ensure we reduce reoffending and that the 175 sexual offenders we are releasing into the community annually have had some level of treatment,” she said.

Ms Harkin described the restrictions as anti-competitive. Under the Central Bank regulations, credit unions are restricted in the amount they can loan out for mortgages, but banks are not subject to the same strict lending limits. The limit on lending for mortgages and small businesses combined is 7.5pc of total assets for most credit unions.

Kilfane wins Texaco award

Kilfane Handball Club has received €5,000 after being chosen winners of the Kilkenny County Award in this year’s Texaco Support for Sport initiative. The prize money will help the club to upgrade its facilities and complete the construction of a dedicated gym. In existence since 1923, the club caters for some 200 members today aged from seven to 75 at all levels of participation, from adult and juvenile leisure players to elite internationals.

Now in its fourth year, the Texaco Support for Sport initiative sees a fund of €130,000 set aside annually for allocation in equal amounts of €5,000 to successful applicants chosen on a county-by-county basis.  Previous Kilkenny winners were Kilkenny Hockey Club (2021), Marble City Boxing Club (2022) and Piltown AFC Football Club (2023).

Kilkenny’s Lisa set for Rose

Kilkenny Rose Lisa O’Rourke is looking on track to win this year’s Rose of Tralee, according to Ladbrokes.

Ms O’Rourke is from Castlecomer and works in Communications for Irish Dairy Co-Op Tirlán. Lisa has said it is a dream come true to be representing Kilkenny at the Rose of Tralee, having pictured herself as a judge growing up. She currently sits at 16/1 to win. This year the event will run from this Friday, August 16 to August 20.

What’s the worst first date you’ve ever had?

Taboo, a dark comedy by award-winning Kilkenny writer John Morton will run at the Theatre Royal in Waterford Wednesday, September 11 and Thursday 12 at 8pm.

There was a boy and a girl and somehow, they met. Lily doesn’t get out much. Tom finds it hard to meet new people. And now they’re having their first date. Lily cooks a three-course meal. Tom brings flowers and wine. On the surface, everything seems fine. But in the modern world, dating is a surprisingly complex thing with a lot of unwritten rules. There are certain things you shouldn’t do on a first date. And then there are certain things you shouldn’t do at all.

Red ‘n Blue Theatre Company was founded by husband and wife Dylan Kennedy and Jenny Fennessy. Their debut production, Lovesong sold out 16 performances across Cork, Waterford and Dublin. It was nominated for five Waterford News and Star Green Room awards, including Outstanding Event of the Year, Best Play, Best Director and won awards for Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress. Their second production, The Flags was nominated for a further six Green

Room awards and won Best Play of the Year 2022, Best Set and Best Supporting Actress (Jenny Fennessy). John Morton is from Kilkenny and is the creator and writer of the TV series Dead Still, for

which he won an Edgar Award for Best TV Episode Teleplay. He has written and directed several short films including Smitten for RTÉ Storyland, and also wrote the award-winning shorts Seanie & Flo, Kath-

leen and Swerve.

For the stage John has written the plays Denouement (LyricTheatre/ Traverse), Taboo (White Label), War Of Attrition, Scratcher, Smitten and Heart Shaped Vinyl (Devious

Theatre). With Peter McGann, he co-wrote the Irish historical plays The Hellfire Squad and The Roaring Banshees. He also wrote the adaptation of Thomas Kilroy’s novel The Big Chapel (Asylum/Abbey

Theatre/Kilkenny Arts Festival) which was nominated in three categories at Irish Times Theatre Awards 2020. John is a founding member of Devious Theatre in Kilkenny and White Label in Dublin. He is currently writing comedy drama pilot script The Continental Method for Deadpan Pictures Limited.

Dylan Kennedy trained at The East 15 Acting School. His credits include, From Out the Land (Clonmel Junction Festival), The Last Stand, Amongst Men (Four Rivers), Philadelphia Here I Come (Donmar Warehouse), Katie Roche (Abbey Theatre), Our Tethered Kin (Broken Crow),Hansel in Hansel and Gretel (The National Theatre), The Beauty Queen of Leenane (Royal Lyceum, Edinburgh), All Over Town (Project Arts Centre, Dublin), and Peter Pan (National Theatre of Scotland).

Jenny Hennessy is an acting graduate from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. TV credits include Call the Midwife (BBC) and The Doireann Project and Seriously, Sinéad? (RTE). Theatre credits include Greg Doran’s King Lear and Melly Still’s Cymbeline (Royal Shakespeare Company).

‘Carbon heatwave’ kills 50,000 in Europe

Hot weather inflamed by carbon pollution killed nearly 50,000 people in Europe last year, with the continent warming at a much faster rate than other parts of the world, according to new study published in Nature Medicine.

The findings come as wildfires tore through forests outside Athens, as France

issued excessive heat warnings for large swathes of the country, and the UK baked through what the Met Office expects will be its hottest day of the year.

Doctors call heat a “silent killer” because it claims far more lives than most people realise. The devastating mortality rate in 2023 would have been 80% higher

Harris hopes to make farm succession much easier

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue is to examine new farmer retirement scheme which could make succession planning easier.

Speaking at the recent Tullamore Show, Taoiseach Simon Harris said s uccession was one of the biggest issues farmers continually raise with him and he h as tasked Mr McConalogue with looking at a new r etirement scheme for farmers.

“Farmers are saying to me this is my son or daughter and they would like them to be able to take over the family farm, but there are too many hurdles in their way and the Government needs to get out of their way and enable them to pass the family farm on successfully,” said the Taoiseach.

“A retirement scheme was in place in the 90s, with considerable success, and I’d now like Minister McConalogue’s commission t o look at that.

“Certainly from my perspective, any financial incentives that are required t o help with succession will be taken extremely seriously by me. I also have proposals, which I’m bringing forward in relation to inheritance tax, whic h is paid at far too high a level, which I know will benefit not just homeowners, but farmers too.”

I n June, Mr McConalogue told the Farming Independent he had looked at a r etirement scheme in the CAP and decided not to go down that route.

“Instead, we spent the money trying to encourage people... you’re trying t o encourage people to get in rather than encouraging

if people had not adapted to rising temperatures over the past two decades, according to the study.

Elisa Gallo, an environmental epidemiologist at ISGlobal and lead author of the study, said the results showed that efforts taken to adapt societies to heatwaves had been effective.

“But the number of heat-

related deaths is still too high,” she warned. “Europe is warming at twice the rate of the global average – we can’t rest on our laurels.”

Heatwaves have grown hotter, longer and more common as people have burned fossil fuels and destroyed nature – clogging the atmosphere with gases that act like a greenhouse and

heat the planet. Globally, 2023 was the hottest year on record, and scientists expect 2024 to soon take its place.

Researchers have found that cooler countries in Europe such as the UK, Norway and Switzerland will face the greatest relative rise in the number of uncomfortably hot days. But the absolute death toll will con -

tinue to be greatest in southern Europe, which is better adapted to hot weather but more exposed to scorching temperatures.

The scientists found heatrelated mortality in 2023 was highest in Greece, with 393 deaths per million people, followed by Italy with 209 deaths per million and Spain with 175 deaths per million.

Consumer complaints are up by 18%

people to get out,” he said. It will be looked at as part of a new Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming, which was announced over the weekend b y the Minister.

The Commission is set to gather a group of experts who will take a “robust evidence-based look at all of the factors in play to ensure that we have a well-researched basis for us to make optimal use of the policy tools available to encourage young people”, according to Mr McConalogue.

T he Taoiseach also said he was “sick to the back teeth” of farming being referred to by some as a “discretionary extra” or “nice t o have”.

“Or you’ll get these ridiculous strawman arguments: are you on the side of the pl anet or on the side of the farmer; are you on the side of fixing the climate emergency or are you on the side of backing the family farm,” he said.

“Government needs to be able to do more than one thing at the same time and we need to save our planet, which is on fire, but we also need to continue to back family farms and back farmers as they transition, and continue to produce high quality food, which is the pride of the country right across the globe.

“As I have been travelling around agricultural shows this summer, I have heard very clearly from farmers that they are fed up with being demonised and this idea that it is them or the climate.

“I’m determined to stand by farmers and the agrifood community in that transition.”

Queries and complaints to Ireland’s consumer watchdog increased by 18% in the first six months of this year, with a total of 22,347 consumers contacting the CCPC helpline between January and June 2024.

The CCPC (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission) national consumer helpline offers free, independent information and support on consumer rights and personal finance.

Just published the CCPC’s Consumer Helpline Report details the key concerns of consumers across Ireland and the

sectors and traders they struggle most with, with issues over faulty goods and services topping the list of consumer queries and complaints.

The top five sectors the CCPC was contacted about between January and June were vehicles and transport, which generated 2,904 contacts; telecommunications, 1,534; home building and improvements, 1,228; holidays and travel, 1,110; and clothing, footwear and accessories, 1,018.

Eir was the company most frequently identified by callers to the CCPC

helpline with 356 contacts, followed by Ryanair on 269 contacts. In third place was Sky with 254 contacts followed by Vodafone which was mentioned by 239 contacts while Harvey Norman was in fifth place on 234 contacts.

Commenting on the importance of consumers knowing their rights, Grainne Griffin, CCPC Director of Communications, said:

“Whether you’re buying a birthday card or a brandnew car, you have rights as a consumer, and the trader you’re buying from has certain responsibilities

under the law.

“It can be tricky for consumers to understand their rights when something breaks down or a delivery doesn’t show up, and that’s where the CCPC can help. An informed consumer is an empowered consumer, and knowing your rights can make life easier when things go wrong.

“Traders who break the law can face fines and prosecution. Our enforcement officers use this helpline data to identify serious breaches of the law and patterns of non-compliance,” Ms Griffin said.

Fears of new aggressive strain of potato blight

The European Commission has been called on to act as a new, aggressive strain of potato blight, resistant to common fungicides, spreads across Europe, posing a threat to potato crops.

In 2023, Teagasc identified a strain of blight called EU43, which is resistant to certain fungicides, such as Revus.

The spread of the disease has the caused potato industry to urge the Commission to implement measures that empower farmers with more effective control strategies against the disease.

During a meeting between industry stakeholders and the European Commission’s Directorates-General for Agriculture (DG AGRI) and Plant Health & Food Safety (DG SANTE), an action plan was presented.

“It is vital to inform the European Commission, the European Parliament and the member states about the seriousness of the situation and the urgent need for coordinated action, including the need for rolling out appropriate policies and resources from the European Commission and member

states,” a spokesperson for the industry said. It demanded an awareness campaign and rapid monitoring of the disease to apply the right crop-protection strategy. Fungicides should be retested for efficacy against new strains and said fungicides with five different modes of action must be made available to farmers.

Teagasc has said that, while commercial growers were using a combination of fungicides to control this and other strains, most ‘hobby growers’ generally just use one fungicide throughout

the potato growing season. Potatoes are cultivated on 1.7pc of the EU’s arable land, totalling about 1.7 million hectares. The overall value of EU processed potato production reached €9.1bn in 2019, equalling 1.6pc of the value of production of the whole European food industry. Frozen chips and crisps were the most significant processed products in terms of production value. The EU is also a net exporter of processed potatoes, this standing at a value of €3bn in 2022.

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

There’s no need for us to be so rude

Most of us can pay witness to increasing bad behaviour on our roads, with drivers rearguarding you, suddenly overtaking you, beeping loudly because you’re in the slow lane and revving loudly and erratically for just no reason other than they feel they can. Just downright rudeness. Sound familiar?

Increasingly, such rudeness is not just confined to our roads and motorists. I saw it while in hospital two years ago. Patients – admittedly, some quite ill – being downright rude to nurses and staff in general. It’s a regular occurrence at the supermarket check-out and at the public bar. Pushing and shoving and lack of common courtesy. Of course, it’s the peoplehave-lost-their-everlovingminds incidents that make the news, but they are also a reflection of a deeper trend. Judging by reports on Liveline and elsewhere the past week, we appear to have forgotten

our niceties, especially with those whose job it is to assist us. Restaurants are reporting ruder clients. Flight attendants, for whom rude clients are no novelty, are reporting mayhem on some flights. (In America, FAA fines for unruly behaviour have already exceeded a million dollars this year).

One would have thought that, having been prevented from mingling with other humans during the pandemic, people would greet the return of social activity with hugs, revelry and fellowship. But in many ways, say those who study such matters, the psychologists, the long separation has made social interactions “more fraught”. The combination of a contagious, lifethreatening disease – and let’s not forget that many suffered badly, and it hasn’t gone away, you know – and a series of unprecedented, life-altering changes in the rules of human engagement have left people anxious, confused and, es-

pecially for those who do not believe the restrictions were necessary, resentful.

I have one acquaintance, just up the road, with whom I would have lunch once or twice a year. When I approached him when the lockdown lifted, he told me he wouldn’t be coming out again. I haven’t had sight nor sound of him since.

It’s not a coincidence, the psychologists say, that much of the incivility occurs towards people in customer service industries. “People feel almost entitled to be rude to people who are not in a position of power,” says Hans Steiner, emeritus professor of psychiatry at Stanford University. The power dynamic has been completely upended. And of course, it’s always easier to punch down. “It’s displaced anger,” says Steiner. “They’re angry about other things but they take it out in those encounters.”

As a society, the pace of

change and the speed with which we get information and answers has rapidly increased. We want everything faster: answers, service and our problems to be solved. This ultimately sets up challenging, and sometimes unrealistic, expectations for those who are trying to serve us, whether

“When I approached him when the lockdown lifted, he told me he wouldn’t be coming out again....

at the supermarket checkout or 35,000 miles up in the air. Furthermore, the widespread transition to remote work has resulted in reduced face-toface interaction. And with a decrease in this time spent with our fellow humans, it has likely been more difficult to develop empathy and patience.

Another cause of heightened emotions is the overall challenges people in the world are facing, including polarisation, rightwing protests over asylum seekers, the underlying stress of inflation, supply chain issues – like much-needed medicines – or ongoing economic uncertainty. All of these factors result in an increase in burnout, frustration, and impatience in our interactions with others.

Also, too much screen time may has caused ‘keyboard courage’ to bleed into our dayto-day conversations, leaving us more abrupt and even rude in our communications.

People don’t look up from their smart-phones anymore to interact with each other. The amount of young people who can converse with you while still scrolling is alarming.

For those flight attendants, nurses in A&E, or cashiers, impatient, rude and abrupt behaviour is not only exhausting but unsustainable for those workers’ emotional health and well-being. My psychologist friend from Magherafelt says employees feel that they are “punching bags for customers’ anxieties and frustrations”, which in turn affects employees’ internal self-worth. Without fear of taking a large slap on the back, I constantly – too much so, my daughter contends – engage with the cashier and sit up front with the taxi driver, asking how they are doing and making that human connection. Kindness goes a long way and costs nothing.

I think, too, of how I would want to be treated.

Guide to National Heritage Week

Witch trial tours of Kilkenny, morning walks in an abandoned medieval village in Jerpoint, a steam train journey into MacDonagh Junction and a behind-thescenes look at the Butler Gallery collection are among the many free events taking place across Kilkenny during National Heritage Week 2024, from Saturday August 17 to Sunday August 25.

Local heritage groups and organisers, families, communities and individuals in Kilkenny have responded to this year’s theme of ‘Connections, Routes and Networks’ by organising events showcasing the best of what Kilkenny’s local heritage has to offer. Well over 2,000 events will take place nationwide with a full list available on the National Heritage Week website.

Coordinated by the Heritage Council, some other highlights from this year’s National Heritage Week programme in Kilkenny also include:

Wild Child Adventures & Heritage Open Day at The Heritage Council (August, 24, 12pm to 4pm)

Come to the Heritage Council headquarters to celebrate Wild Child Day with an afternoon of fun-filled activities for the whole family to enjoy. There is an exciting lineup of activities designed to connect kids with nature, spark creativity, and create lasting memories.

An evening at Boland’s Mills in Kells (August 21, 7pm to 8.30pm)

Celebrating the natural and built heritage of the Kings River, this event will explore the mill, mill race and the angling on the Kings River.

The Pilgrims Way, at St Mary’s Church (August, 22- 23 11am to 1pm)

Embark on a captivating journey through Kilkenny's rich history with the Pilgrim’s Way Walking Tour, highlighting the abundance of holy

wells that weave the story of this medieval city. This tour traces the footsteps of ancient pilgrims, exploring the evolution of wells from their pagan origins to revered religious sites.

Mass Paths & Holy Wells Workshop, Mayfair Library Kilkenny (August 21, 2.30pm to 4.30pm)

Join Marion Sutton and Pat Reid who will demonstrate how to record your local heritage using freely available on-line technology. This

workshop invites members of the public to develop their heritage skills and also learn about the County Kilkenny Mass Path and Holy Wells surveys.

Commenting, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, Virginia Teehan said: “Browsing through the over 2,000 events taking place during National Heritage Week this year gives a sense of the shear variety and colour of our nation’s heritage – they cover nature, culture, music, traditions, folklore, writing,

history, architecture, archaeology, archives and so much more. It is also a sign of the strength of the sector, the depth of knowledge people have and their generosity in sharing that knowledge.

"Many of the events are volunteer led, organised by dedicated people who seek no recompense or adulation. We must never take these people for granted and I will continue unapologetically to mention them at every opportunity, such is their importance not only to National

Rise

Hertiage Week, but to the preservation of Irish heritage in general.”

Two themed days will take place during National Heritage Week. On Saturday, August, 24 Wild Child Day encourages children and families to explore the heritage in their locality. On Sunday, August 25, the Heritage Council and the Local Authority Waters Programme invite people to explore National Heritage Week projects that celebrate water and our connections with it.

in breakout of blackleg among cattle

There has been a sharp increase in large outbreaks of blackleg in cattle, according to the Department of Agriculture's Regional Veterinary Laboratories (RVLs).

The disease has been diagnosed more frequently in cattle submitted for postmortem, with some farms experiencing significant outbreaks despite having no previous history of the illness.

The disease is never uncommon in Ireland, and occasional fluctuations are normal.

Blackleg, a common but deadly disease of cattle worldwide, typically leads to sudden death or death after a brief illness. The disease occurs when clostridial spores, ingested from the soil, become dormant in the animal's muscles.

These spores can later germinate due to muscle bruising, tears or unknown metabolic factors. As the bacteria proliferate, they produce large amounts of toxin, which

causes sudden death.

The occurrence of blackleg tends to peak in late summer and autumn.

As well as flooding, any other form of soil disturbance like tillage, drainage etc can trigger outbreaks by bringing spores to the surface. Some farmers will be aware that some areas of their farm are 'blackleg hotspots'. While the exact reasons behind these recent outbreaks remain unclear, prevention is straightforward. Multivalent clostridial vaccines are highly effective when administered correctly. Farmers are urged to adhere strictly to the manufacturer's instructions for the primary course and booster shots to ensure the best protection against the disease.

The Department of Agriculture is advising farmers to consult with their vet to ensure proper vaccination protocols and to discuss specific measures to prevent blackleg on their farms.

Masculinity, morality, and capitalism: KATS hold Kilkenny theatre goers

by the brass balls once

KATS, Kilkenny Amateur Theatre Society are known for bringing high end productions to the Watergate stage and this year’s production is no different.

Ciarán Dunphy is back in the role as director for this all male Pulitzer prize-winning play by David Mamet.

Ciarán previously held Kilkenny theatre goer’s captive with the audacious Clockwork Orange, and it will be no different with Glengarry Glen Ross, which is known for it’s distinctive

The plays title refers to two of the real estate developments that salesmen in the play have been pushing on investors: Glengarry Highlands and Glen Ross Farms. The names evoke luxury and wealth, precious swathes of finite land that are in fact dubious parcels of real estate in Arizona and Florida, that the plays ruthless characters sell to gullible buyers from a branch office in Chicago. What they’re selling has no value and they have no value if they’re not selling, “Only one thing counts in this life: get them to sign on the line that is dotted.”

The pungent rhythms of Mamet’s dialogue, with their clipped sentences and bursts of profanity, give Glengarry Glen Ross its unmistakable verve, but Mamet was remarkable in how carefully he delineates these characters. They’re all of a similar species, one

again

with its own rapacious language and culture, but in this story of survival of the fittest, the strength and weaknesses in their temperaments tell the story. It’s imperative that they live to see another miserable day at the office, so the drama becomes a test of how far they’re willing to go to get on the sales board and at what cost to their soul.

Mamet wrote the play in 1983 and sent it to his mentor, Harold Pinter, saying he didn’t know how to bring it to a satisfactory end. “It’s perfect, stage it,” Pinter replied, and it was put on in London at the National Theatre with a British cast before having its Broadway premiere the following year, when it received the Pulitzer prize.

Glengarry Glen Ross is about many things – masculinity, morality, capitalism – but it’s fundamentally an “honour among thieves” story, following anguished men as they struggle to hang on to their integrity while they exploit, lie and steal, deceiving themselves as much as their unsuspecting clients. They’re dishonest, double-dealing swindlers who invite our sympathy as victims of a merciless, unforgiving system while winning our grudging admiration for the pride and cunning they show in the artistry of their deceptions.

This production features an incredible ensemble cast: Michael Hayes in one of theatres true iconic roles ‘Shelley Levene’, Fergal Millar, Shane O'Keeffe, Peter Madden, Eoghan Fingleton, Niall Morrissey, Niall Bambrick and David Doyle.

Glengarry Glen Ross runs from Thursday the 29th- 31stof August 7.30pm nightly. Tickets are available on www.watergatetheatre.com

Photos: Arina Arlukova

Eoghan FingletonGeorge Aaronow

Shane O'KeeffeDave Moss

Fergal MillarRicky Roma

David DoyleBlake

Michael HayesShelley Levene

Niall BambrickJames Lingk

Niall MorrisseyDetective Baylen

Peter MaddenJohn Williamson

As I See It

Marianne Heron

Tourism: time for the road less travelled

You can have too much of a good thing. I’ll never forget my dismay on returning to Florence decades after my first visit, to find the streets congealed with crowds and queues for entrance to everything from galleries to churches. It’s the kind of experience which made me vow not to return, unless in the depths of Winter. Tourism is very big business, worth more than $1.4 tr illion globally last year. For many places it offers life blood in income – witness the outcry from rural tourism interests here when the Aer Lingus work to rule threatened the flow of incoming overseas visitors. But in some tourist hotspots a welcome is no longer on the mat.

Last month locals in Barcelona, fed up with crowds and unaffordable rents, fired water pistols on tourists (maybe welcome given the heatwave) and waved

placards telling them to go home. Welcome to Overtourism. It’s not tourism per se that is the problem, but the way that too many tourists end up in the same place at the same time so that the situation becomes unsustainable. Hyper tourism affects both locals impacted by high prices, quality of life and lack of affordable accommodation while the tourists’ experience can be ruined by overcrowding, transport, high pr ices and other problems. According to a French study by satellite survey firm Murmuration, 80% of visitors home in on just 10% of tourist destinations. The impact gets critical for small places, like the scenic village of Hallstatt in Austria, where locals, fed up with 10,000 visitors a day descending on a population of 800, blocked visitor access. Pity the residents in Ile de Brehat, off

the coast of Brittany with a population of 400, where they have limited visitors to a maximum of 4,700 at weekends or the Greek Island of Santorini where 11,000 cruise ship tourists descended on the island in one day last month.

When you get tourists complaining about too many tourists that’s overtourism, something we are seeing signs of here in Ireland according to Professor Jim Deegan, Economist and head of the National Centre for Tourism Policy at Limerick University. “We need to be careful about how we manage our resources, with overtourism very much a management and development issue.”

Professor Deegan cites the example of Dubrovnik, Croatia where capacity to bring in big cruise liners was developed, the logistics hadn’t been thought through and the city, now

a top tourist hot spot, has become a victim of its own success and is seeking to limit tourism numbers.

“You have the tourism paradox where expert

“Tourism is very big business, worth more than $1.4 trillion globally last year...

consultants are brought in to encourage people to come to x and, then if it’s a success, it’s going to be spoiled. It’s relative to the size of the population and, if locals are negatively impacted, it’s a problem. We need to question who the destination is being developed for, whether it is for locals or visitors or those who have property rights.”

Pricing is one way to control the problem and the obvious thing is to spread numbers out over the day or over the year or encourage people to go elsewhere, suggests Professor Deegan.

Kilkenny City is among the top visitor attractions in Ireland – are the numbers causing problems? I asked Kilkenny County Councillor Michael Delaney (FF) of the Village Shop Tullaroan, a combined convenience shop and pub serving meals on the scenic route between Kilkenny City and Cashel.

“In Kilkenny we have a great tourism team who keep things moving,” he says.

“The tourism problems that have come up in Kilkenny involve parking for tour buses, where passengers want them to stop as near as possible to attractions like Kilkenny Castle and accommodation, where three of the budget price hotels have closed down.

“The big hotels can charge what they want and you could go to Spain for their prices.”

My own suggestion to avoid overtourism? One way is to encourage travel companies, social media and advertising to promote different destinations to spread visitor numbers around. I have always enjoyed the roads less travelled and out of the way destinations. But I am not going to tell you where I am going on holiday: the place might get spoiled if word gets out.

Tips for a healthy sleep routine for kids

The summer holidays are coming to an end and for some of you this means getting the bedtime routine back on track for the school term. If you are dreading tricky nights of trying to get your toddlers and young children to sleep, here are some tips that may help. A regular bedtime routine, even at the weekend is important for children as it helps to regulate their internal body clock. You could establish a book reading, or a bath routine to signal that bedtime is coming up soon. Aim to control the noise level if you can. Use blackout curtains to create a dark space. Keep an eye on the room temperature as if it is too hot or too cold it may affect your child’s ability to fall to sleep. Young children can be a nightmare to get to sleep, they often need a cuddle with their favourite toy, blanket, or their favourite story before they will settle down for the night. Baths can be a great way to help a baby or toddler relax and calm down before bed. This could be followed by a gentle massage. If you like this

idea, you could incorporate some BetterYou Magnesium Sleep Kid’s Body Spray into their routine. This is a mix of magnesium, lavender and chamomile which is simply massaged into their skin to help your child to calm down, relax, and soothe their senses before sleep. It can help them fall into a deeper and more sustained sleep and wouldn’t that be great. I love that this is suitable from 12 months onwards and is paediatrician approved, as well as dermatologically tested and suitable for sensitive skin. Don’t forget yourself. You

could unwind with a nighttime tea, or listen to some relaxing music before you head off to bed. See if you can avoid looking at your phone or any screen for an hour before bed, as the blue light emitted from these appliances can interfere with melatonin production, an important hormone required to stimulate the sleep cycle. There’s Magnesium Sleep Spray for adults too so you can hopefully get a restful night’s sleep too! It can be difficult to get back into a sleep routine after a break so I hope that these tips will help.

CLAIR WHITTY

SPECIAL REPORT

The Government target of having one million EVs on the road by 2030 now seems very unlikely.

New information just release show that attempts to get rural drivers out of petrol and diesel cars and into driving electrical vehicles (EV) are stalling, whereas motorists in the commuter belt are slowly moving towards electric vehicles

Those who are moving are opting for hybrids rather than fully electric. In one rural county, EVs make up just one in 43 new registrations in the first six months of this year. There are currently 110,000 EVs on Irish roads.

Hybrids made up almost a third of new cars registered in most counties in the first half of this year. In more than half of counties, one in 10 or fewer were EVs.

While hybrids are often promoted as a first step towards an EV, they only run on electricity over short distances.

Over longer journeys, most prevalent in rural areas, hybrids are reliant on their traditional fossil-fuel engines.

New data shows, however, that rural counties remain the slowest to switch to EVs. The difference between counties is stark.

Wicklow emerges as the EV capital of Ireland, with electric models accounting for one in five new cars registered since January 2020 in total, and almost one in four in the first half of this year.

Roscommon by contrast is an EV desert, with electric making up just one in 29 new registrations since 2020 and only one in 43 in the first six months of this year.

In other east coast counties – Dublin, Kildare and Meath – EVs make up between one in six and one in seven of new car registrations since 2020.

In most counties, Kilkenny included, they make up between one in 10 to one in 14.

Fine Gael TD Richard Bruton, who received the figures in response to a parliamentary question, said the Government needed to “double down” on electrification.

“There is an onus on Government to promote EVs again because there’s been a bit of flagging, internationally as well as nationally,” he said. “The Government needs to lean into this.”

He said higher incentives for rural-based motorists to switch to electric should be considered.

Current incentives include a €3,500 purchase grant for new EVs, reduced Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT), benefit-in-kind tax relief and a €300 home charger

Road is not clear on 2030 target for EVs

grant. “I’d love to see some higher incentive for those in rural areas who don’t have as many public transport alternatives,” Mr Bruton said. “That can be difficult to design, but perhaps it could be done through motor tax.”

The effectiveness of financial incentives is not clear, however.

A cut in the EV purchase grant from €5,000 to €3,500 last year coincided with a drop in sales, but the complete removal of the grant for hybrids had no such effect.

The upfront purchase cost of an EV is a barrier though, said Gerry Grennan of the Donegal EV Owners Association.

“The manufacturers need to get into smaller cars. That’s really the key to it,” he said.

An EV owner since 2019, his wife is looking to follow suit, but there is no obvious electric replacement for her run-around Nissan Micra.

“Chinese manufacturers are going down that route, but none of the established makers on the Irish market have yet. You need that under-€20,000 car. That would be a game-changer.”

Tom Spencer, editor of IrishEVs.com, believes the

Government could at least change the rules of the game. “Our second-hand EV car market is very immature, especially compared to somewhere like the UK, but we still have astronomical VRT and Vat on imports,” he said.

He provided three examples from motor sales listings in the UK and Ireland last Thursday where similar second-hand EVs had huge price differences.

A 2018 Nissan Leaf in the UK was available for €7,692. The same model in Ireland, with slightly higher mileage, was €14,890.

“Lifting the customs duties and import fees on second-hand EVs from the UK would quickly provide a larger stock of vehicles that ordinary people could actually afford - and it would come at little cost to the State,” Mr Spencer said.

“In fact, it could end up saving the taxpayer money by avoiding the non-compliance fees for emissions reduction failures from 2030 onwards.”

Before even looking at EV prices, however, motorists’ chief concern still seems to be battery range. “The main question I get is, what’s the range, how far can you go?”

Mr Grennan said.

Last Friday, he was leaving work to drive from Letterkenny to Killarney for a funeral before heading to Belfast for a weekend break, which is a good example.

“That surprises people. Range anxiety is still out there. And to be honest, my first electric car had a 40kw battery and I struggled a bit with that, but I have a 77kw now and get 450km out of it,” he said. “I will have to stop on the way to Killarney to charge, but it’s a a five-hour journey so I’d be stopping for a break anyway even if I had a petrol car.”

There was good news about en-route charging last week when Transport Minister Eamon Ryan announced the locations of 17 new or upgraded motorway charging stations with 131 new high-speed and ultraspeed chargers.

The rollout comes via a grant-aided scheme for commercial providers, but other public and community-based charging point initiatives are promised. Those will be essential to broaden the appeal of EVs, Mr Grennan said.

“If you go to Inishowen, Buncrana, Carndonagh, there are no high-powered

fast chargers in that area at all,” he said.

“We’re a long way behind where we need to be in terms of encouraging mass adaption of electric cars.”

Mr Bruton was the minister for the environment who, in 2019, introduced a grant for local authorities to install public EV charging. It was to create 1,000 new charging points in town centre and on-street locations within five years. It resulted in one local authority installing four chargers and has been discontinued.

“They [local charging points] would have been very important to build confidence, but local authorities have been very, very slow to take up the opportunity to do that,” Mr Bruton said.

“Local authorities need to step up to the plate on that.”

They will get the chance under the new schemes being planned, but Mr Spencer warned that location mattered as much as quantity when it came to charging points.

“We need to do better in terms of people feeling safe to use them. They need to be in well-lit, central locations.

“We also only have four wheelchair-accessible char-

gers in the country. And they need to be covered so you’re not lashed on while you’re waiting.

“Petrol pumps are covered. We need to make everything about EVs work as simply as petrol cars as possible.”

Mr Spencer is clear that electric should only mean full electric, not hybrids.

“They’re fossil fuel cars, they’re not electric. There’s been an incredible amount of greenwashing around them,” he said.

“We’re bound by the EU’s ban on selling fossil fuel cars from 2035 and people should not be spending their hard-earned money on them now.”

Mr Spencer said it was possible the deadline may come earlier for Ireland for practical reasons.

“Labour in the UK have pledged to stop selling fossil fuel cars by 2030 and the Irish market is probably too small for manufacturers to continue making right-hand drive cars just for us.”

As a hybrid owner himself, Mr Bruton said he would not condemn anyone for buying one, but he acknowledged they would not deliver the transformation to electric cars at the speed needed.

Opinion

The impact of living longer on our pensions Your Money & You

According to recent statistics and surveys we are, as a nation living longer. While Ireland is often spoken about as a country of young people, the over-65 population has grown by 35% in the last decade, more than three time the rate of growth in the overall population and faster than elsewhere in Europe. The average life expectancy in Ireland is almost 83 years, a 2.5% increase over the last 10 years. Specifically, women in Ireland typically live longer than men, with an average life expectancy of 85 years, while men have an average of 81 years thus having significant implications for our pension system; we spend more years in retirement, requiring larger pension pots to maintain our standard of living throughout these extended periods. What does this mean for your personal pension pot? What are the risks that need careful management to

John Ellis

ensure financial security in your retirement?

The primary risk is you might outlive your pension savings. With retirement potentially spanning several decades, a larger pension pot is necessary to sustain the same lifestyle over a longer period. Additionally, inflation can significantly erode the purchasing power of your savings, making it a challenge to cover living expenses, especially healthcare costs, which tend to rise with age.

Investment risk is a concern, as longer time horizons expose your pension pot to “more market cycles, including potential downturns”. Individuals need to balance the savings they make over the course of their working life with the cash flows they require throughout their retirement. Here are three measures you can take to retire comfortably.

Save more

To overcome the risks associated with a longer life expectancy and to ensure that your pension pot lasts throughout retirement, increasing your contributions over time to your pension plan is crucial. Consider increasing your contributions when receiv-

ing a salary increase or a bonus. And with the generous tax allowances available this approach allows you to save more without feeling a significant impact on your take-home pay.

Manage investment risk

Most pension savers have

no idea where their money is invested but usually its invested in their employers pension’s “default investment strategy” This strategy as you near retirement gradually moves your savings into lower-risk funds thereby reducing exposure to high-volatility assets over

time and with at least five years to retirement will have the majority of your money in lower-risk assets such as bonds and cash, preserving your capital and reducing potential losses close to retirement.

Diversification

If you do take an interest where your money is invested there should be an option to spread your money over various asset classes which level out returns and provides more stable growth. This approach reduces exposure to market downturns and is crucial for maintaining savings over a longer retirement period as life expectancy increases.

All the above will provides piece of mind ensuring that you can focus on enjoying an extended retirement. Get in touch if you would like your pension reviewed.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

White Twine and Old Suitcases

The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and Recovery College South East have produced a wonderful anthology of poetry and prose. ‘White Twine and old suitcases’ comprises of 128 pages and 60 authors and is complemented by some wonderful photos and artwork by TASK camera club. It is printed by Modern Printers. It is definitely recommended reading for all lovers of poetry. The Kilkenny Observer is happy to run the poems each week to promote creative writing and to highlight these wonderful centres. Available in all Kilkenny book shops. €10

Our Shaking World

I’m shackled to the Earth.

My hands and feet are bound by ropes of steel, And though they are chained, my hands shake along with my heart and the world that surrounds me.

Why must my world shake?

The words on the page all jumble up before being melted away by the tears from which I shed, plummeting, upon the pages.

Summer days saddened with grief for my beautiful Earth, dying but not yet dead.

With screams that sound like song, and tears that fill oceans. Why must my world shake?

A cloak of shame and guilt drapes over the shell of my grieving soul, as I fall to my knees with what seems to be the weight of the world laid upon my shoulders,

As I too am an accomplice to this heinous crime.

My one question I ask repeatedly with no answer, is it so bad that I should fear the truth?

I ask again.

Why must the world in which I walk through life on shake?

Ciara Kilkenny

Mo Chuan

Cuan na mara, Mo chuan, Cuan na clamháin, Cuan cloigíní na gCaisearbháin, Féileacáin lá ‘s oíche ann tearmainn ‘s mé i sáinn.

Mileanna gabhair Mo mheabhair a chruinniú, Aon ní gur fiú a lua is tú mo chuan, Cuan na mara, Mo chuan.

Tá dóchas ann, Tá tú ann i mo theannta, Thug tú

Thuig tú

‘s tá tuiscint agat fós, Ar chroí-lár m’anaim ‘s ábhar m’áthais, An spéir breac le néalta cois abhainn ag pógadh, Cuimhní aoibhe, I dtús m’oige i measc baois m’óige ag stánadh ar do ghleoiteacht, Ba bheag seans a bhí agam leat nuair a chonaic mé thú ag teacht, An caoi gur shiúil tú gur bhog tú chugam, ‘s me ag seasamh ann go lochtach, Mála scoile ar mo dhroim, Ag fanacht ar shíob dtín tigh bheag tuaithe tuathalach, Thosaigh an scéal scór bhliain ó shin, i gcúinne club oíche.

Nach bhfuil an tádh orm?

Ben Mac Caoilte

Céad Slán is Buíochas

Ár mbuíochas ó chroí le gaiscíoch na fuinseoige Thuill clú agus cáil ó laethanta a óige, Iománaí sciliúil téagartha cróga Diongbhálta calma in éide Dhubh is Ómra. Thar insint scéil a ghaiscí bhainisteora, Fathach Fir a stiúraigh le neart ár Ré Órga, Coirn, Craobhacha is gradam gan teora, Fad Saoil chugat! ár laoch cois Feoire, Gach Beannacht is Rath ort a Bhriain Mhic Óda!

Seán Mac Coisdealbha

Art by Eoghan O’Driscoll

Photo by Ben Mac Caoillte

Photo by SOS camera club

Science & Wellbeing

Futurists have long debated the arrival of the singularity, when human and artificial intelligence will merge, a concept borrowed from the world of quantum physics.

American computer scientist and futurist Ray Kurzweil has long argued that the singularity would likely occur around the middle of the 21st century and, with the rise of AI, his predictions are gaining more credence.

In his new book, The Singularity Is Nearer, Kurzweil doubles down on those predictions and details how humanity’s intelligence will increase a millionfold via nanobots (among other things).

You don’t exactly become a world-renowned futurist by making safe predictions. And, while some of these past predictions haven’t exactly come to pass (Back to the Future Part II, specifically), these ideas help expand our thoughts on what exactly the future might look like.

And no one makes futuristic predictions quite like Ray Kurzweil.

An American computer scientist-turned-futurist, Kurzweil has long believed that humanity is headed toward what’s known as ‘the singularity’, when man and machine merge. In 1999, Kurzweil theorised that artificial general intelligence (AGI) would be achieved once humanity could achieve a technology capable of a trillion calculations a second, which he pegged to occur 2029. Experts at the time scoffed at the idea, figuring it’d be at least a century or more, but with Kurzweil’s timeline only a few years off — and talk of AGI spreading — that decades-old prediction is beginning to loom large.

Now in his new book published last month, The Singularity Is Nearer (a play on his 2005 book of the same name minus an “er”), Kurzweil doubles down on these ideas

On August 24, in AD 79, Mount Vesuvius erupted, shooting over three cubic miles of debris up to 32 kilometres in the air. As the ash and rock fell toEarth, it buried the ancient cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

According to most modern accounts, the story pretty much ends there: Both cities were wiped out, their people frozen in time.

It only picks up with the rediscovery of the cities and the excavations that started in earnest in the 1740s.

But recent research has shifted the narrative. The story of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius is no longer one about annihilation; it also includes the stories of those who survived the eruption and went on to rebuild their lives.

The search for survivors and their stories has dominated the past decade of archaeological fieldwork, as archaeologists have tried to figure out who might have escaped

What AI future holds for the human brain

in the modern era of artificial intelligence. Not only is he “sticking with [his] five years” prediction, as he recently said in a TED Talk, Kurzweil also believes that humans

will achieve a millionfold intelligence by 2045, aided by brain interfaces formed with nanobots non-invasively inserted into our capillaries.

“We’re going to be a com-

The people of Pompeii who survived

bination of our natural intelligence and our cybernetic intelligence,” Kurzweil said in an interview with The Guardian, “and it’s all going to be rolled into one. We are going

the eruption. Pompeii and Herculaneum were two wealthy cities on

the coast of Italy just south of Naples. Pompeii was a community of about 30,000

people that hosted thriving industry and active political and financial networks. Her-

physical intervention to bridge the gap between man and machine, other philosophers and AI experts agree that some form of merger is likely inevitable, and in some ways, is already beginning. In July, Oxford’s Marcus du Sautoy and Nick Bostrom both expounded on the hopeful and harrowing possibilities of our AI future, and for both of them, a kind of synthesis appeared inevitable.

“I think that we are headed toward a hybrid future,” Sautoy told Popular Mechanics. “We still believe that we are the only beings with a high level of consciousness. This is part of the whole Copernican journey that we are not unique. We’re not at the centre.”

Of course, this “Brave New World” of a hybrid AI-human existence brings with it a plethora of issues both political and personal. What will humans do for jobs? Could we possibly live forever? Would that change the very idea of what it means to be human?

Kurzweil, like many other futurists, are relatively optimistic on this front. In that same interview with The Guardian, Kurzweil highlights the idea of a Universal Basic Income as a necessity rather than a fringe idea currently supported in more progressive circles, and AI will bring unprecedented advancements in medicine, meaning the very idea of immortality isn’t out of the realm of possibility.

to expand intelligence a millionfold by 2045, and it is going to deepen our awareness and consciousness.”

While this idea subscribes to a merger more akin to

culaneum, with a population of about 5,000, had an active fishing fleet and a number of marble workshops. Both economies supported the villas of wealthy Romans in the surrounding countryside.

In popular culture, the eruption is usually depicted as an apocalyptic event with no survivors. But the evidence that people could have escaped was always there.

The eruption itself continued for over 18 hours.

The human remains found in each city account for only a fraction of their populations, and many objects you might have expected to have remained and be preserved in ash are missing.

Carts and horses are gone from stables, ships missing from docks, and strongboxes cleaned out of money and jewellry.

All of this suggests that many – if not most – of the people in the cities could have escaped if they fled early

“In the early 2030s we can expect to reach longevity escape velocity where every year of life we lose through ageing we get back from scientific progress,” Kurzweil told The Guardian. “And as we move past that, we’ll actually get back more years. It isn’t a solid guarantee of living forever — there are still accidents — but your probability of dying won’t increase year to year.”

enough. Some archaeologists have always assumed that some people escaped. But searching for them has never been a priority.

After eight years of scouring databases of tens of thousands of Roman inscriptions on places ranging from walls to tombstones, evidence was found of more than 200 survivors in 12 cities.

These municipalities are primarily in the general area of Pompeii.

But they tended to be north of Mount Vesuvius, outside the zone of the greatest destruction.

It seems as though most survivors stayed as close as they could to Pompeii.

They preferred to settle with other survivors, and they relied on social and economic networks from their original cities as they resettled. Some of the families that escaped apparently went on to thrive in their new communities.

1. The Hague, Netherlands

The Hague is often overlooked for its more famous counterpart, Amsterdam. However, The Hague offers a vibrant city experience with a more relaxed atmosphere.

Things to do: Take an architecture photo walk, noting the patterns and textures present in the city’s buildings. Visit the Panorama Mesdag, a unique cylindrical painting offering a 360-degree view of The Hague in the 1880s, and explore the Mesdag Collection featuring works by the painter and his wife.

2. Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is considered to be one of Belgium’s most underrated cities, and is often overlooked for destinations like Brussels and Bruges. However, Ghent boasts an array of activities to suit any interest, from foodies to museum enthusiasts to chocolate lovers.

Things to do: Explore Ghent’s craft beer scene at Bier Central or visit the Ghent Museum of Industry to learn about printing and textiles. Take a rainy-day tour of the Museum Dr. Guislain, focusing on the history of psychiatry, or wander the quiet residential streets admiring the city’s unique doors.

3. Mons, Belgium

Often overshadowed by larger Belgian cities, Mons offers a unique blend of cultural and historical attractions.

Things to do: Take a street art walk to appreciate Mons’ designation as a 2015 European Capital of Culture, viewing the installations near the Boule de Bleu on Rue de la Coupe and SainteElizabeth Church. Visit the Mons Memorial Museum, dedicated to the region’s World War history, or climb the 30-meter-high belfry of the Belfry of Mons.

4. Bergamo, Italy

With its proximity to Milan, Bergamo often gets overlooked as a weekend destination. This charming city, however, offers a blend of modern amenities and old-world charm, making it a worthwhile destination in its

Nine hidden gems to visit in Europe

Travel & Leisure

own right. Bergamo is also a popular Ryanair destination so you can get here on the cheap.

Things to do: Explore Bergamo Citta Alta (Bergamo’s Old Town) via the funicular, enjoying views during the ride. Discover the stunning Art Deco architecture in Bergamo Citta Bassa, particularly the post office, and wander

through Piazza Vecchia, the heart of the upper town, with its historical buildings and charming atmosphere.

5. Frankfurt, Germany

Often pigeonholed as a finance hub, Frankfurt harbors surprising charm and a plethora of green spaces amidst its towering skyscrapers. Things to do: Stroll

through the Palmengarten, Frankfurt’s centrally located Botanical Gardens, to appreciate the contrast between urban and natural landscapes.

For a taste of local culture, an evening at an Apfelwein Tavern in the Sachsenhausen district offers a chance to sample the city’s signature apple wine and traditional German cuisine.

6. Kaunas, Lithuania

While Vilnius often steals the spotlight, Kaunas offers a more laid-back Lithuanian experience without sacrificing charm.

Things to do: Explore Kaunas’ picturesque Old Town, smaller and more manageable than Vilnius’, with a relaxed ambiance enhanced by restaurants and bars spilling out onto the

pavement. A visit to Spurgine, a communist-era cafe, provides a nostalgic glimpse into the city’s past, serving up simple coffee and doughnuts in a spartan setting.

7. Warsaw, Poland

Despite being a vibrant capital, Warsaw lives in Krakow’s shadow from a tourism perspective. The Old Town was mostly destroyed during World War II but has been faithfully rebuilt. You’ll find a charming core and delicious food here. Warsaw is absolutely one of the favourite Polish cities.

Things to do: Explore Warsaw’s complex history with a visit to the Jewish Ghetto Wall, a poignant memorial to a dark chapter. For a dose of culture, a summer Sunday spent in Łazienki Park offers a chance to admire sculptures, water features, and listen to some live Chopin.

8. Riga, Latvia Riga offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Things to do: Explore Riga’s Art Nouveau architecture on Elizabetes iela, admiring the intricate facades and decorative details. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the annual Fall Harvest Festival with its traditional music, crafts, and seasonal produce. Take a day trip to Jurmala, a charming Latvian beach town, and enjoy the Dzintari Forest Park with its wooden boardwalk and observation tower offering panoramic views of the Bay of Riga.

9. Helsinki and beyond, Finland Helsinki offers a unique blend of Art Deco and Art Nouveau architecture. Exploring beyond the capital city reveals charming towns and unusual one-of-a-kind attractions. Things to do: Take a photography tour of Helsinki, capturing the city’s unique architecture and doors. Embark on a Finland road trip to visit Turku, Porvoo, Kotka, and Hamina.

Experience the unconventional art at Parikkala Sculpture Park (possibly the weirdest place we’ve been anywhere in the world).

Ditch Europe for this unexpected destination

Argentina in South America is a trending holiday spot with European influences, providing a budget-friendly alternative to typical destinations.

Safety is key while exploring this South American gem, so understanding the culture and emergency protocols is crucial.

With a great exchange rate, off-season prices, and affordable accommodations, Argentina provides an epic adventure without breaking the bank.

It seems that everyone is on the hunt to find a new and exciting non-European vacation destination that will check the adventure box without breaking the bank.

While many instinctively travel east, the answer for many Americans may just be to go south for a new and exciting experience. The country of Argentina boasts

many perfect reasons to visit, and travelers are bound to have a great time.

What makes Argentina such a great vacation destination, and what does it have to offer? Here, we’ll highlight the perks of a summer vacation in Argentina and what makes it such a great European alternative.

While it is known to be a relatively safe country, there are still several things that you should know before traveling to Argentina. Being aware of your surroundings

at all times is a requirement anywhere you go, but you also want to have a general understanding of the culture and know where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.

Often when you think of Argentina, you immediately think of the city of Buenos Aires. Because Buenos Aires is the most well-known city in Argentina, it’s typically an automatic association when the country is mentioned.

However, this beautiful city will do just the trick.

Walking through the streets of Buenos Aires will have you thinking you were transported to Europe. The architecture and details in the various designs are very reminiscent of what you see on buildings in countries like France and Italy.

While these intricacies are on display in other areas of Argentina as well, they are most prominent in the downtown area of Buenos Aires, providing ample opportunities for breathtaking views.

A very special guest at Cleere’s Monday night session Furthermore Gerry Moran

In the 30 years or more that I have been reciting humorous verse in Cleere’s Bar of a Monday night (the longest running session in Kilkenny). I have come across musicians [pictured]: famous, infamous and not so famous. I’ve come upon actors on the way up, actors on the way down and some in between. I have come across playwrights, poets and novelists (I have even been the warm-up act for a few: Joseph O’Conner and Rita-Ann Higgins come to mind).

I have come upon country & western singers, folk singers and even opera singers, not least during our Arts Week, now the Kilkenny Arts Festival. And yes, the Arts Festival was, and is, a time when you could just about bump into anyone and everyone, from the Arts world and beyond. And I haven’t even mentioned the Cats Laughs Festival when George Wendt sat at the corner of Cleere’s Bar and sipped a pint or two (just as he

did when he played Norm in the TV series Cheers).

And so, after 30 years or so, you reckon you’ve seen it all. But then you’re not foolish enough to think you’ve ever seen it all. And so it happened that the Monday night of our Arts Festival gone by, I, and my fellow performers, saw something that we’d never seen before. We saw a bride! All in white and who had just been married earlier in the

day in a civil ceremony. And we didn’t just see her, we heard her because, fair dues to her, she asked to sing a song – the last song of the evening as it happened. And what did she sing? One of my all-time favourites (a song I have been known to sing myself on the odd occasion). The Parting Glass. And she sang it beautifully. And it couldn’t have been more appropriate as two

dedicated participants in the session, David and Vasso from Connecticut who I met in Cleere’s eight years ago (and have remained great friends with ever since) who visit every year were returning to the US after their annual visit to Kilkenny.

Also two more devotees of the Monday night session, French couple, Bruno and Jackie, who live in Kilkenny some of the year were return-

ing to France the following day. Mentioning France, Helen and Billy, the newlyweds, were off to Brittany the next day to celebrate their marriage proper.

Helen and Billy – I, and all the crew of the Monday night session in Cleere’s were surprised, and delighted, to see you and we wish you health, happiness and harmony in the years ahead. Oh, and as you both slide down the bannister of Life together – may the splinters always face the right way!

Has anyone here seen Harvey? I see Harvey every week, especially on Sundays yet I have never seen him! In person. In the flesh. Perhaps there is no flesh. No person. I suspect that there isn’t. But I could be wrong. The Harvey I am referring to, as you may already have guessed, is Harvey Norman. D Harvey Norman who graces the front pages,

and back pages, of our Sunday papers – every week!

I mean when I buy the Sunday Independent I feel I am buying the Harvey Norman Sunday Independent because of the numerous pages he commandeers. Full length pages at that. The same with the Sunday Times – it’s the bloody Harvey Norman Sunday Times I might as well be buying. And Harvey has popped up at sports events also. On scoreboards, whatever. Goddam it the ‘man’ is here, there and everywhere – proving to me, at least, that advertising must work; why else spend a small fortune every weekend if it doesn’t? Harvey definitely takes gold – gold, silver and bronze when it comes to the advertising stakes.

You know something else?

I wouldn’t be a bit surprised if he walked into Cleere’s some Monday night and distributed fliers. Hell, he might even sing a song!

Coughlan

Making Kilkenny safer, one heartbeat at a time The Last Word Pat

Last week I happened to notice an unusual box on the wall outside Eurospar in Newpark Shopping Centre. They’re not fancy post boxes or secret leprechaun hideouts. They’re defibrillators, and the y’re here to save lives. When someone’s heart decides to take an unscheduled break, these devices can give it a much-needed jumpstart. Kilkenny City has recognised their importance and is ramping up their availability. Every second counts when it comes to matters of the heart.

Irish law doesn’t mandate defibrillators in public places, but regulations promote their availability in workplaces. The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 encourages employers to consider defibrillators, particularly in high-risk environments. Legislation also stresses training, ensuring defibrillators aren’t just placed w ithout preparation. Ac-

cording to Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) guidelines, there’s a push for proper training so people can use these lifesaving devices effectively. This ensures that, if needed, individuals will respond confidently and prepared. You might have noticed a few more defibrillators popping up around Kilkenny City recently. The local council and several dedicated organisations have been on the ball, working flat out to make these lifesaving devices more accessible. A few months back, the y rolled out a grand plan to install defibrillators at key spots, particularly in areas with heavy footfall. The Parade, Market Yard, and MacDonagh Junction are just a few of the locations where you can now find these essential machines. In total, they’ve put in about 15 new defibrillators, ensuring that help is never far away in case of an emergency. It’s a

real boost for public safety. The funding for those lifesaving devices comes from a mix of government grants, local fundraising efforts, and generous support from businesses and charities. It’s a real community effort. With these devices now peppered around the city, response times to cardiac emergencies are drastically cut. Numerous studies have shown that defibrillators dramatically increase survival rates for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). According to the American Heart Association, immediate CPR and early defibrillation with an AED can more than double a victim’s chance of survival. It’s like having a guardian angel on every corner. The quicker the response, the higher the chance of survival.

Kilkenny aims to double the number of defibrillators in the next five years, placing them in high-traffic areas, neighbourhoods, and

public facilities ([Kilkenny Health Authority, 2023] (https://health.kilkenny.ie/ defibrillator-plans)). A comprehensive training program w ill offer regular, free sessions in schools, community centres, and workplaces, ensuring more people are trained in defibrillator use and CPR. Collaboration with healthcare professionals and emergency s ervices will enhance these sessions’ quality and outreach ([Kilkenny Community Safety Initiative, 2023] (https://safety.kilkenny.ie/ training-plans)). Furthermore, defibrillators will be connected to emergency services through advanced technology, enabling quicker response times. The goal is clear: make Kilkenny the safest place in Ireland for cardiac emergencies by ensuring defibrillator availability and community training ([Kilkenny Emergency Response Plan, 2023] (https://emergency.kilken-

ny.ie/response-plan)).

There are many ways you can get involved in this life-saving mission. Attend local training sessions to learn how to effectively use a defibrillator and what to do in emergency situations. Encourage your friends and family to do the same — knowledge and readiness can be the difference between life and death. Participate in community fundraising events to help finance more installations throughout our town. Volunteer to help organise thes e events, ensuring they are as successful as possible. Talk to local businesses and ask them to support the initiative by sponsoring equipment or offering their spaces for training sessions. Every single action counts. By getting involved, you’re actively contributing to the safety and wellbeing of Kilkenny. Together, we can make our community safer, one heartbeat at a time.

Paddy Grace

Paddy Grace One of the greats of the GAA

BY LIAM BURKE

It is difficult to believe that forty years has passed since the great Paddy Grace, who was Kilkenny’s longest serving County GAA Secretary passed to his eternal reward.

An inspirational figure, who was known the length and breadth of Ireland and further afield, Paddy was elected Secretary for the first time in 1948 and served with distinction until July 2nd 1984.

During his term of office, Kilkenny won 26 All-Ireland finals, including ten senior, nine minor, three junior and under 21, and one Intermediate.

It is worth remembering also, that just one month after Paddy died, Kilkenny beat Tipperary for the first time in an All Ireland Under 21 final and although he was very ill at the time, he travelled to see Kilkenny play and win the

Leinster final in Carlow two weeks previously.

He was born in the towns land of Palmerstown on the Tullaroan road just north of the Dicksboro GAA grounds on August 3rd 1917, and from an early age it had been said that he had a tremendous interest in all things GAA.

He practiced hurling as much as possible and threw in his lot with Eire Óg GAA club in Kilkenny, winning a minor championship in 1932.

Paddy won two more Minor championships in 1934 and ‘35 with the club that had been formed in 1931, and he also like to recall that he won a Leinster Junior hurling medal with with Kilkenny CBS in 1934.

DISTINCTION

Paddy Grace, had the distinction of winning County Championships in six different grades-senior, minor, junior, and intermediate in hurling , as well as junior and senior football.

While playing at centre half

back, Paddy captained Kilkenny to an All Ireland minor win against Tipperary in 1935. This was indeed a great September day for Kilkenny hurling as the senior team defeated Limerick by a single point on the same day to win the All Ireland with a 36 year old Lory Meagher as captain Recognised as a well above average hurler , it was just a matter of time before Paddy would get the call up to play senior.

He made his debut against Limerick in the National League in 1938 and the following year, he played at corner back with Kilkenny defeating Cork in the famous ‘thunder and lighting’ All- Ireland senior final.

Jack Lynch, who later became Taoiseach, and won a record six senior All-Ireland medals in a row, played his first All-Ireland final that day in 1939. Himself and Paddy Grace became great friends over the years and whenever he visited Kilkenny, he always made it his business to call on the Kilkenny GAA County secretary.

Following the 1939 final victory, Kilkenny, including Paddy Grace, suffered three All-Ireland defeats in 1940, 1945, and 1946, before they won their thirteenth title in 1947.

They had been unlucky in 1941 as they were not allowed to play in the Championship due to severe ‘Foot and Mouth’ outbreak in both Kilkenny and Tipperary. They were at a low ebb in 1942 and then in 1943 they suffered a surprise defeat

by Antrim in the All-Ireland semi- final which was played in Corrigan park, Belfast. Kilkenny were also very poor in 1944 and were defeated by Tipperary in the All-Ireland final of 1945. Cork emerged victorious the

following year with Kilkenny finally emerging victorious in the final of 1947, by a single Terry Leahy point. It has been recorded that Paddy Grace made a dramatic clearance from corner back which led to that winning point.

FOUR IN A ROW

During those years, Paddy Grace enjoyed great success, and was part of the Carrickshock four-in-a-row senior hurling championship victories of 1940,’41.’42 and ‘43. When Paddy Grace was hop-

Paddy Grace (third from left, back row) who played in the 1939 ‘Thunder and lightning’ All Ireland when Kilkenny defeated Cork with a scoreline of 2-7 to 3-3

Following Paddy’s marriage to Maureen Murphy they moved to Newpark in Kilkenny City where they had a family of nine children

Paddy Grace

ing to be elected as Kilkenny County GAA Secretary in 1948 , he said that his priority was to look after the welfare of the players to the best of his ability.

And this he did over the years with practically every player having great time for him.

Following Paddy’s marriage to Maureen Murphy , they moved to Newpark in Kilkenny city where they had a family of nine children.

One daughter, Angela, was married to former great Thomastown hurler Tom Walsh, while another daughter Frances( Frankie) is the mother of Martin, Tommy, Padraig, Shane and Grace Walsh of Tullaroan.

The Grace house in Newpark was the centre of the GAA in Kilkenny for many years and there was often a crowd of a hundred people outside the house looking for tickets before an All-Ireland.

Paddy and Maureen always prided themselves in the fact that everyone who deserved a ticket got one.

Shortly after he became County Secretary, Paddy set about upgrading Nowlan Park, and he organised rubble from the old Kilkenny gaol which was being demolished in 1948 to be deliverd to help build up the bank where the Grace stand is now situated.

FUNERAL

Hundreds travelled from all over Ireland and abroad for Paddy Grace’s massive funeral in July 1984.

Former Kilkenny hurler Paddy Buggy, who was President of the GAA at the time , described Paddy as ‘one of the greatest GAA men of all time’, and that he was friends with everyone. He also said that Grace was the centre of the GAA in Kilkenny.

Flags flew at half mast throughout the county and there was a minutes silence before the Leinster football final that year.

The Wolfe Tones singing group, while performing at ‘Cois ne Laois’ dedicated ‘The Rose of Mooncoin’ to the deceased County Secretary , which was very apt, as it was this song which inspired Paddy as a young boy to dedicate his time to the GAA over the years.

Kilkenny Observer wish to thank the following for use of

The

photos: The Stripy Men GAA book, The Walsh Family Tullaroan, Sportsfile. and Tullaroan camogie club.

Paddy Grace (second from right, middle row) with the victorious 1947 All Ireland team

GOOD FRIENDS... Jack Lynch who later became Taoiseach and Paddy Grace became great friends

Jim Langton, Eddie Keher and Paddy Grace

ALL FOR ONE....On the day Tullaroan won the County final, the Walsh family, grandchildren of Paddy and Maureen Grace, take time out for a photo. From left: Grace, Martin, Padraig, Tommy and Shane

Poetry in motion. Grace Walsh, granddaughter of Paddy and Maureen Grace

Tommy Walsh, grandson of Paddy and Maureen Grace goes high to win a puck out in the 2011 All Ireland.

(Photo: Barry Cregg Sportsfile.)

Above main pic: Paddy Grace was born in the townland of Palmerstown on the Tullaroan road

A word from Brian Cullen, one of the exhibitors from Amárach Nua:

“We look at ourselves as accidental artists. A group of diversity and with shared experiences, working together to overcome challenges and reignite our true potential. Our exhibition is a showcase of who we are, what we can achieve, but also a reflection on our personalities with the hope that it shines true in our art. A passion now enjoyed by our first time artists finding their confidence, to artists rediscovering a lost passion in art. It is a Community Employment (CE) scheme based programme like no other in that it takes a personal centred approach for those of us in recovery from addiction, and provides training and employment opportunities but also a holistic approach to mindfulness. Exhibiting our art in its many shapes and forms has been a new experience for us; daunting, challenging, but exhilarating.”

“Personally, Amárach Nua has been a massive game changer for me. I joined the programme having overcome addiction and homelessness and found a purpose, all thanks to Orflaith and Agata, Supervisors. I would have painted many years ago and was passionate about it, but addiction took over, and that passion was lost. But two clean years later, we are exhibiting for Arts Week, passion reignited, confidence rebuilt, and we are doing it collectively, strong bonds formed. As Amárach Nua translates as a ‘New Tomorrow’, it perfectly describes our attitude to life and our future. We have a new tomorrow.”

Speaking on her excitement of the event, Lesley Cleere, Centre Manager of Market Cross Shopping Centre said “when the AKA Fringe Festival committee approached us with Amárach Nua and we had our first meeting, I knew immediately that this was full of high energy, commitment and talent. We are thrilled that they choose the Market Cross to showcase all of their amazing work.”

“We have many other independent artists here again this weekend so we invite everybody to come and see amazing art and craft.”

Amárach Nua Exhibitin Kilkenny Arts Frin

Anna Spalek

Mlynarczyk (architect and painter)

pictured at Market Cross

Orflaith Mullally (Community Employment supervisor and artist), Lesley Cleere (Market Cross Shopping Centre manager), Agatha Manning (CE supervisor) and Brian Cullen (CE participant and artist)

Joy Morton, from Kilkenny who is exhibiting her work at Market Cross

All Photos by Pat Shortall

Jean Brett exhibiting at Market Cross

When Hollywood came to town…

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

The five or six men who pushed an old Morris Minor up and down the street looked a bit browned off, but they persevered and after many takes, they took a wellearned rest. Nobody said it was going to be easy. But there was glamour and potential stardom for Anne Vaughan’s baby, Faye. Half-way through the night’s filming, Neil Jordan emerged from the Big Chapel and strode across to the phalanx of spectators on the opposite side of the street. He was looking for a suitable baby who might play Patrick Braden as a boy child. Eureka!

The sight of baby Faye’s big blue eyes caught his attention. Anne readily consented to allow her to audition for

the role.

Faye displayed a remarkable restraint in the church, and equally so in the following days when Ruth McCabe rolled her in a pram near Margaret Fennelly’s (Ma Braden’s in the movie).

A car bomb explosion at the Town Cross dominated the action on Day Nine, though the actual blast was something of a damp squib for locals expecting a bang to end to all bangs.

Eileen Vaughan, who runs a chipper-takeaway at the site of the controlled explosion, said she hoped Callan would benefit in the long term if the film went on to win awards and critical acclaim.

The anti-internment march was more impressive than the explosion. A huge contingent of local extras participated. They looked the part as they chanted propaganda slogans about Long Kesh and the Brits.

Day Ten was by far the most popular and exciting from

a local point of view: Late that night, almost the entire population of Callan looked on as plumes of smoke began to rise from the Big Chapel. Then flames started to flicker from the doorways and along the roof of the historic building. Within minutes the entire church was engulfed by fire. Onlookers gasped with amazement and admiration, as their beloved place of worship appeared to go up in smoke in a final blaze of glory to round off its decades of service to the Catholic Faithful. County Cavan Fire Brigade was quickly on the scene to save the church.

The mammoth statue of Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers, had dozens of people of all ages climbing on to it as they sought a better view of the pyrotechnics. A woman standing near me wondered aloud what Blessed Edmund would have to say about these weird and wonderful events.

Callan’s pious PP and his curate seemed in a trance as they beheld the towering inferno. They looked as if the Dalek had come back and zapped them with its death ray, freezing them to where they stood.

The special effects crew quenched the fire within

seconds of each take ending. The crowd applauded their expertise. The fun drew to a close after midnight, marking the end of this dramatic highpoint of a town’s flirtation with the make-believe world of movies.

All that remained was the shooting of a scene in Hen-

nessey’s old butcher shop in West Street. Locals remarked that it was long time since they had seen a pig’s head in a shop window.

Callan was like a ghost town within hours of the film crew’s departure. The adventure was over. The seventies look had gone and the 21st century was back with the cold light of Monday morning.

For the hundreds of extras, life had returned to normal. No more would they, and the throngs of sightseers, hear the loud commands echo along our streets: “Action” … “Reverse Positions” … “Rolling…Quiet Please”

But locals were counting the hours to when Breakfast on Pluto hits the Silver Screen. One did not nee d a crystal ball to predict that there would be an EXODUS from Callan on opening night!

John Lyons outside joe Lyons shop which was aptly renamed

Sinead Somers Phyllis lacey and Finnoula Somers at The Cross of Callan

Eimear Phelan with Film directoir Neil Jordan and Marianne Kelly outside the Big Chapel

Gibbs excellent as Shirley enthrals

By Tom Dayton

Photos by Pat Shortall

If memory serves me right, I saw my first production of Shirley Valentine in 2016, in the City of the Tribes. Galway was where I received my first pay check as a cub reporter. It was also where I worked as a front of house volunteer at The Town Hall theatre.

Of course this meant seeing top class work on a weekly basis, and for free. (Cub reporters don’t have a disposable income.) Whereas ‘Cathair na dTreabh’ was not my introduction to theatre, it certainly showed me how high the theatrical

bar was set. I was to spend four glorious years in Galway, and basked in the wonderful setting that was the Arts community. From street theatre, to the magic of Druid on Flood Street, An Taibhdhearc, Punchbag and more festivals than the whole of Ireland put together, life was a theatrical peach. However, as a certain Geoffrey Chaucer said “Time and tide wait for no man”. And so, at the end of 2018, I bid farewell to my Galwegian family, packed by journalists jotter and

pen (Apple Macbook) and moved to Graignamanagh in County Kilkenny.

Both my partner and I delighted in the artistic feast that greeted us.

Right on our doorstep in Graig’ we have Art in The Open, wonderful concerts in Duiske Abbey and a fantastic Town of Books Fair. A short spin to the city and we experience The Kilkenny Arts festival, Rhythm and Roots, and a host of theatrical, musical and comedy events.

It was while attending a musical event in Ryans on Friary street I got

chatting to a man from The Kilkenny Observer newspaper and as the saying goes, one word borrowed another. Since that night I have previewed and reviewed some great shows for that Friary street based newspaper. Last week I was asked to attend the Willy Russell play ‘Shirley Valentine’ produced by Lake Productions. On the night I attended, the 60 seat Barnstorm studio space was full and I recognised a number of ‘Lake Productions’ actors in the audience. This is my fourth occasion to attend

shows by Lake, having previously seen

NO SAFETY NET

The heroine in this production is an ordinary middle class English housewife. As she prepares chips and eggs for dinner, she ponders on her life and tells the wall about her husband, her children, her past, and an invitation from a girlfriend to join her on holiday in Greece to search for romance and adventure. Ultimately, Shirley does escape to

‘Da’, ‘The Kings of the Kilburn High Road’, and ‘Moll’.

Roisín Boyd, Aishling Geraghty and Marina Boyd attended the production of Shirley Valentine

Paul, Michael, Statia and Eileen Clifford supporting Lake Productions

Greece, has an "adventure" with a local fisherman and decides to stay. Shirley is played by local actor Clare Gibbs, who according to the programme has been part of the theatre scene for a long time with such shows as ‘Same old moon’, ‘Lend me a tenor’ The Wizard of Oz’ and ‘The loves of Cass McGuire’ as part of her impressive C.V. However this is a one woman show. No safety net. You walk out on the stage, and when the lights come up there is no place to hide. This show reminded me of a

of ‘The

-which

The one-woman play is about a young woman in rural Ireland and how she deals with being isolated by her friends, while also exploring how best to navigate staying sane – examining if she’ll yield to her

A LONELY WORLD

My best description of taking on a one person show is that of being lonely and living at the edge of the world. There are two reasons that not many theatre companies take on such productions. There is a strong possibility that your box office will suffer, as people can be hesitant about attending such performances. The second reason is that not too many actors are brave enough to take on such a project. Not, it would appear, for Lake. Let me cut to the chase. Gibbs was brilliant. It is not a word I use lightly. From the minute she arrived on stage she took ownership of it. She was there to tell the story of Shirley Valentine, and by God did she tell it. If you will allow me to digress for a moment. There is a man in Graignamanagh with whom I attend hurling matches, and if his team is winning he will bellow “G’wan boys. Drive her home”. The Gibbs performance did just that. Her pace, movement and belief in what she was relating was as good as I’ve seen. This is a clever, smart humane and funny play with a fair dollop of the serious side of life thrown in for good measure. Gibbs portrays Shirley as a warm friendly character. She is likeable and funny. It was a real pleasure to see both sides of this actor as she transformed from the bleak Shirley Bradshaw to the new and vibrant Shirley Valentine. I think everyone in the audience felt somewhat of an inner glow as we watched the new look Shirley as she basked in the love and revival of her new self in Greek holiday mode. It is fair to say that the audience delighted in the new world that the character found. Perhaps there is a bit of Shirley in all of us, wondering at times if change needed. In her programme note, Emily Kelly writes: “Shirley encapsulates the universal struggle many individuals face in feeling trapped in mundane routines and yearning for a sense of purpose. It was difficult to believe that Clare Gibbs is an amateur actor. Her vibes during her 90 minute performance were of the professional kind. What stood out in particular during this one woman show, as she spoke of different characters, daughter, friends, husband, and ‘Christopher Columbus’, you could actually see them on stage, such was her powerful description. Possibly the best way to sum up the performance by Clare Gibbs is to say she was ‘lost in the performance’. Her portrayal was so real and immersive that the audience forgot they were watching an actor and instead felt they were witnessing the actual events or person being depicted. For me, it doesn’t get better than that.

TEAM WORK

innate wildness or deal head-on with a supposedly civilised world that rejects her. Different countries, different scenarios but similarities nonetheless. Certainly being alone on stage the common denominator

Just as the performer Clare Gibbs was new to me, so too was director Mary Cradock. However, a look at the programme note on Cradock shows a long involvement in Kilkenny theatre both as an actor and director. One can only assume that these two worked very closely to produce this magical production. There wasn’t a seat available during the four night run and according to the box office, there was a big demand to run some extra shows. Who knows? Perhaps a re-run at a future date? If it is advertised in the future make sure to book a seat. Lighting and sound was by Brendan Maguire. Set design and decoration was by Siobhán Hegarty and Alice Power. Stage managers: Emily Kelly and Dee Gibney. Great work entirely.

production

Hare’,

I saw recently in Galway- a play by Clare Monnelly and Bob Kelly, featuring actor Úna Ní Bhriain and musician Steve Wickham of the Waterboys.

Clare Gibbs who played the role of Shirley Valentine in the Lake Productions show at the Barnstorm studio space

Mary Shepard, Therese Kelly, Caroline Manning and Zareena Haughney at The Home Rule Club

Enjoying the night at The Home Rule for Shirley Valentine were Jo-Ann Cody Walsh and Connie Hempenstall

Finola Black and Antoinette Crotty attended Shirley Valentine

Sean and Mags Shortiss who supported the production of Shirley Valentine

Shane and Judy Cradock attended the Clare Gibbs one woman show at The Barnstorm studio Space

Shauna McNamara and Orna Ward attended Shirley Valentine

Catherine Byrne and Nora Norton at Shirley Valentine

Catherine Byrne and Nora Norton at Shirley Valentine

Trish Fox, Mary Cradock ( director) and Mai Brady

In three of the most important states that are key to winning the 2024 election, Vice-President Kamala Harris leads former President Donald Trump, according to a new New York Times/Siena College poll.

The poll was conducted between August 5 and 9 and asked likely voters in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin about their attitudes toward Harris and Trump. When asked who they would vote for if the election were held today, Harris received 50% support to Trump’s 46% — a marked improvement compared to President Joe Biden’s performance against Trump in earlier polling.

When third-party candidates and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are included in the race, Harris remains ahead by five percentage points in Michigan, two percentage points in Pennsylvania and six in Wisconsin, with a fading Kennedy averaging just five percent support.

The new poll suggests that Harris has not only narrowed the gap against Trump nationally but is also pulling ahead in the crucial Blue Wall states as she rides a wave of momentum stretching into its third week. The poll was fielded largely in the same time frame that Harris energised crowds in the Midwest on a rapid-fire rally tour with her newly minted running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, whom voters are still getting to know. Meanwhile, Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance from Ohio, are struggling to lock in a consistent and cogent message against their Democratic opponents.

The survey found that Harris is benefitting from a rise in popularity among voters in each state, while Trump’s favourability across the three states has seen a slight improvement compared to previous Times/Siena polls.

Between Harris’ numbers in Pennsylvania in July — a week before Biden dropped out — and now, the vice- president has gained eight percentage points in the state among independent voters, flipping Trump’s former 6 percentage- point advantage. She’s also narrowing the gap with

The head of the global nuclear watchdog has sounded the alarm over the escalating conflict near a major nuclear facility.

Rafael Grossi, who leads the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), has called on Russian and Ukrainian forces to “exercise maximum restraint” amid fears of clashes around the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant.

In a surprising turn of events, Ukraine has shocked President Putin and Moscow with a bold military push into Russia’s Kursk province, and more recently, into the adjacent Belgorod region.

A shamed Vladimir Putin is now compelled to order a large-scale evacuation of over 76,000 civilians from Kursk. The emergency protocols, extending to the nearby Belgorod and Bryansk re -

Harris edges ahead in three swing states

Trump among white voters in Pennsylvania, garnering 47% support to Trump’s 49% in the state. The polling in Michigan and Wisconsin also broadly suggests that Harris is drawing

more white voters into her column compared to Biden. Across the likely electorate in the three states, Harris has a net-positive favourability rating, with 50% holding a

“somewhat” or “very” favourable opinion of her, while 53% of respondents had a “somewhat unfavourable” or “very unfavourable” view of Trump. Reviews of Harris’ political

And in the biggest change in fortunes for the Democratic presidential candidate, Harris is not weighed down by the perceived traits that made Biden a deeply unpopular choice for the 2024 ticket.

A majority of likely voters think she is honest, smart and fit to govern, as well as capable of bringing about the right kind of change to the country. Trump fares worse on all of those measures, though he is perceived as having a clear vision for the country, with 60% of likely voters in Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin saying that sentiment applies to Trump “very” or “somewhat” well.

Notably, 47% of likely voters surveyed said that Trump would enact changes that would be “very bad” or “somewhat bad” for the country” if elected, compared to 37% of likely voters saying the same thing about Harris.

Compared to Times polling in May of a Biden-Trump race, a larger share of likely voters trust Harris on the issues related to the economy and abortion over Biden. The poll, which was conducted mostly after Walz was announced as Harris’ running mate, found that 33% of likely voters across Michigan, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin still have not heard of or do not have an opinion on him. However, he is viewed favourably by 39% of likely voters and unfavourably by 28% — with significant popularity among 18- to 29-year-old voters — and is at an advantage compared to Vance among independent voters.

Democratic candidates in Senate races in each of the three states were also ahead of their Republican opponents, with Senator Bob Casey up by 14 percentage points in Pennsylvania, Senator Tammy Baldwin up by seven percentage points in Wisconsin and Rep. Elissa Slotkin up by three percentage points in Michigan.

agenda were split, with 44% of likely voters saying Harris is too liberal or progressive, while another 44% said she was neither too liberal or progressive nor too moderate.

gions bordering Ukraine, empower the state to move residents, oversee telecommunications, and commandeer vehicles.

The Russian Defence Ministry has reported ongoing skirmishes in Kursk, with the military launching airstrikes against Ukrainian troops, reports the Express.

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi released an urgent statement: “The IAEA has been monitoring the situation on the reported military activities taking place in the vicinity of the Kursk Nuclear Power Plant.”

He stressed the importance of adhering to the seven key principles for maintaining nuclear safety and security during times of armed conflict, saying: “In view of the reportedly significant military activity, I wish to remind

The New York Times/Siena College poll surveyed 1,973 likely voters with a margin of error of plus or minus 2.6 percentage points when all states are included together.

all parties of the seven indispensable pillars for ensuring nuclear safety and security during an armed conflict.”

Mr Grossi has made a plea to both Russia and Ukraine to remain true to the principles that have so far safeguarded the Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant amidst the ongoing conflict.

Urging caution, he said: “At this juncture, I would like to appeal to all sides to exercise maximum restraint in order to avoid a nuclear accident with the potential for serious radiological consequences.”

Continuing, Mr Grossi confirmed his active role, saying: “I am personally in contact with the relevant authorities of both countries and will continue to be seized of the matter. I will continue to update the international community as appropriate.”

The president, chairman and members of the committee are looking forward to meeting you all again this year. You have been great supporters over the years. This year’s Iverk Show is building up to be one of the best. Here are some reasons why you should not miss this year’s event.

1. Educational: One thing that is often forgotten is the educational value of the show. There is so much to learn as you go around. The different livestock, the way the exhibits are produced and displayed. Don’t be afraid to ask exhibitors,

judges or stewards. Everyone is willing to help.

2. See the amazing displays: With over €100,000 in prize money available to exhibitors, it guarantees that the standard of exhibits in all sections will be excellent. Some of the leading producers of cattle, sheep and horse as well as the best growers of fruit, vegetables and flowers will be there looking magnificent. The vintage cars and machinery will be shining, the poultry marquee will be heaving with excitement, and the baking will be mouth-watering and the crafts stunning. Relax and watch the show

jumping or fashion show. Enter the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed Lady’ competition or if you are under 18 months of age there’s a prize for you all in the bonny baby competition.

3. Six All-Ireland finals:

This year we will be hosting six all-Ireland championship finals. The Broodmare and Foal Team Championship is the longest running championship under the Irish Shows Association banner. The Aldi, ABP Irish Angus bull calf championship will have three finals for different age calves and the ‘Tread na hEireann’ competition and young handlers’ event.

4. Tug-O-War: If you have some energy left, shout on your favourite tug-o-war team. The children will be invited to try when the serious competitions are over.

5. Entertainment: When you have been around the show and want to relax before going home you can sit and listen or dance to the music while the children play with the free toy tractors and other activities.

6. Great family day out: With the end of the summer and school holidays in sight this is the last opportunity

Don’t miss Show 2024

the Iverk

for the perfect family day out. There is a lot for all the family – grandparents, parents, children, uncles, aunts and cousins – to see and to do.

7. Meet your friends:

Down through the years the Iverk Show has established a reputation as a great venue for renewing friendships. Visitors come ‘home’ from

around the country and from abroad just to say hello and enjoy a cuppa with family and old school friends.

So, if you are home from abroad, or a visitor from abroad, please call in to the information stand and say hello.

8. Free parking: The good news is that the parking

remains free. There will be a special area for disabled parking. The entry fee has not changed even with inflation. Please, please, please obey the Gardaí and stewards as they are there to help you.

So Piltown, Co Kilkenny is the place to be on Saturday the 24th August. See you there. Don’t miss it again this year.

The Iverk Show’s finest hour

“This appeal if sufficiently funded will ensure the continuation of the Iverk Show on a firm financial footing in its own ground and future generations will record this successful effort as the Barony’s finest hour.” (Iverk Field Fund ’84)

The ‘finest hour’ refers to the unanimous decision of the 1984 Iverk Show committee to bid for eight acres of land which formed part of the grounds first used in 1961 for the Show. Down through the years there have been many occasions which stand out since the show was

established way back in 1826. Starting as a very local event the Iverk Show is now one of the leading one-day Agricultural Shows in the country attracting over 20,000 visitors annually.

The sale posed a major problem for the Society as finding a suitable alternative

venue was not on and the survival of Ireland’s show of 157 years was in jeopardy. The Show committee funds were depleted following the extension of the lean-to shed, building four complete sets of jumps and the provision of additional canvas covering for exhibit stands.

A fund-raising appeal was launched under the chairmanship of John O’Shea, to raise the balance required as a deposit had been put up by individual subscriptions from committee members. Individuals, organisations, and firms associated with the Barony meeting were invited to participate. A house-tohouse collection was also organized. Subscriber’s names were recorded and published in the 1984 Show catalogue. Over 1,100 names were recorded.

The appeal was signed by John O’Shea and Eamon Meade, chairman and secretary of the Field Fund Sub-committee respectively. Thanks to the magnificent response to the appeal and the dedication of the collectors the full amount was raised – Tommy Kinsella, Show Chairman and Jerry O’Donoghue, Show Secretary, (Iverk Show Catalogue, 1984).

Since the Show Field

was purchased, many developments have been added to improve the facilities. Some of the main ones are:

1. Improved the permanent lean to,

2. Built the offices block and storage shed,

3. Laid down permanent roadways,

4. Installed new entrance, roadside fence, and footpath,

5. Installed separate vehicle and pedestrian entrances,

6. Installed new lights and broadband link,

7. Erected new toilet blocks,

8. Erected permanent cattle exhibition rings,

9. Improved the environment

and aesthetics of the grounds with tree planting and better hedgerow maintenance.

10. 2024 opening of new building. And it is ironic that this opening coincides with the 40th anniversary since the committee bought the first part of the show-field. A second lot was purchased in 1991.

From humble beginnings the Iverk Show, today, owns 7.98 hectares, (19.71 acres) of land and has over 280 committee and volunteer members.

It certainly was Iverk’s finest hour as none of the above developments could have taken place on rented land.

1930s Iverk Show Committee

1935 - Competitors in the Children's Riding Class

Kilkenny farm leader says politicians “surrendering” authority on agri-policy to NGOs

The President of ICMSA, Denis Drennan, has said that the High Court decision to refer Ireland’s Nitrates Action Programme to Europe under several headings highlighted in the case made by An Taisce is likely to “crystallise” serious questions about authority and mandate in the formulation of Irish farming and agri-food policy. Mr. Drennan said that it was now becoming apparent that, effectively, elected politicians and the civil service are happy to surrender vast areas of their own authority

and sovereignty – tried and tested since the foundation of the State - to NGOs and quangos. He said that the High Court action brought by An Taisce where that body is in receipt of very serious State subvention is a case in point of an organisation – in

receipt of substantial public funds paid over by the Statetaking the State to court on a policy agreed by Government and approved by the EU Commission thus creating massive uncertainty for farm families.

“There’s no point in the

Irish State agonising over years and endless rounds of consultations if – having arrived at a multi-layered and complex policy that deals with several aspects and having got it approved by the EU Commission – they continue to fund NGOs that take legal actions against the Irish State’s policy costing the Irish state substantial amounts in legal fees to defend. The EU Commission has the final say on approval or otherwise and that’s the way it should stay. Funding NGOs who then take legal actions against the Irish state simply defeats the whole purpose and is going to end up seizing-up the whole process,” said the ICMSA President, who farms at Dunbell.

Mr Drennan said that in his experience farmers have less of a problem with An Taisce taking the authority than they do with the politicians and civil servants just handing it over.

“You’re starting to hear the question more and more: who ultimately decides and what’s the point in Government making a decision if the Government is just going to hand over vast sums to the same NGOs who are taking legal cases against legitimate government decisions on policy,” said Mr. Drennan.

“There’s a point in this debate when your jaw just drops. We are constantly being told by environmental

organisations and ‘activists’ that agriculture is damaging water quality. But when farmers apply for planning permission to make the massively expensive investments and improvements that the environmentalists want, they are objected to by, very often, these self-same organisations and activists. They demand that we do ‘X’ and then lodge legal objections or observations when we try and do ‘X’ and have succeeded in blocking environmental improvements and burdening farmers with often enormous additional expense”, he said.

Mr. Drennan said that it was well worth noting that the only people ‘paying their own way’ in the High Court Nitrates case were the farm organisations, but he was adamant that ICMSA would go ‘all the way’ to help defend the Derogation under which nearly 8,000 farmers operated sustainably.

“We have to get back to a system where duly appointed ministers decide, and civil servants implement that policy on behalf of the citizens. We genuinely respect the existence of NGOs and quangos, but a system that gives effective parity to these bodies in the decisionmaking of the State alongside the Government and Civil Service is unworkable and is rapidly causing huge resentment,” said Mr Drennan.

ICMSA President, Denis Drennan, on his farm in KIlkenny

Favourite highlights at the Iverk Show

be great if we had 198 entries. What a sight that would be. What a job that would be for the judges to pick a winner. Talent, skills, and creativity are always on view in the flower arranging, arts and crafts and flower sections and should not be missed.

And the Red Mills poultry marquee with amazing sights and sounds is always a hive of activity. And talking about hives, many of the honey winners at Iverk have subsequently won all Ireland titles at later specialised honey shows.

Another highlight of the show is the final of the All-Ireland Broodmare and Foal team championship sponsored this year by Suir Engineering. This is a great championship as the good mare has to prove herself by breeding a good foal. They are judged as a unit.

One of the most popular attractions at almost all events throughout the country in recent years is the ‘Most Appropriately Dressed Lady’ competition. And the Iverk Show is no different.

If it is a sunny day, dress up or if it is a rainy day get the brolly and wellies out. One way or the other there are fabulous prizes to be won, supported by Connolly’s Red Mills, including a fantastic perpetual cup for the winner. While you are waiting for the winner to be announced you can sit and relax and watch

the fashion show.

The Tug-o-War really cannot be beaten for excitement.

Following immediately after the final of the Aldi, ABP, Irish Angus Bull Calf championships the crowds cheer their local team. I guess you could hear the roar 20

miles away!

The Aldi Irish Angus championship is recognised as one of the best in the country if not in Europe attracting dedicated breeders for all over the country and from abroad.

Another favourite with

both the exhibitors and the spectators is the renowned Iverk Show great cherry cake competition. Sponsored by our local company Iverk Produce it carries a first prize of €200. Annually there are up to100 entries. To celebrate 198 years since 1826, it would

Yes, it is another huge Iverk Show raffle again this year. 50 prizes to be won. How would you like to spend two nights Bed and Breakfast in the 5 star Westbury Hotel in Dublin? That is our first prize this year. And the second is one night B and B in the 5 star Merrion Hotel, also in Dublin.

There are of course many more attractions at this year’s show. We look forward to meeting you there on the 24th August.

Food & Drink

Come Dine WithMe

Slowcooked pork, cider and sage hotpot

Prep: 40 mins

Cook: 3 hrs

Serves: 6

Warm up as the cold nights set in with this glorious hotpot, with slowcooked 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 dr y 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

• 400g Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes

• 400g sweet potatoes

Apple, cheese and potato pie

Prep: 25 mins

Cook:1 hr and 15 mins plus 30 mins chilling Serves: 4-6

Put a savoury twist on apple pie with potato, cheese and onion, as well as mustard and thyme. The sweet and savoury flavours create a stunning pie

Ingredients

• 30g salted butter

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

• 2 large onions, halved and finely sliced

• ½ bunch of thyme, leaves picked

• 30g plain flour

• 500ml vegetable stock

• 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

• 1 tbsp white wine vinegar

• 450g potatoes (we used Maris Piper), cut into 2-3cm chunks

• 3 apples, peeled, cored and chopped into 1-2cm chunks

• 150g mature cheddar, grated

For the pastry

• 300g plain flour, plus extra for dusting

• 70g cheddar, grated

• 150g cold butter, cut into cubes

• 1 egg, beaten

Method

STEP 1

First, make the pastry. Tip the flour, cheese and a pinch of salt into a large bowl and mix. Add the butter and rub it in using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Mix in 4-5 tbsp cold water, and bring together into a dough. Wrap and chill for 30 mins.

STEP 2

To make the filling, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over a medium heat, then add the oil and onions and cook for 10-15 mins until caramelised. Add the thyme and fry for 1 min more. Tip in the flour, and stir to combine. Gradually stir in the stock, adding it in small amounts to prevent lumps

forming. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 mins, stirring occasionally. Stir in the mustard and vinegar towards the end of the cooking time.

STEP 3

Meanwhile, put the potatoes in a large pan of cold water, bring to the boil and cook for 4-5 mins until just cooked and still holding their shape. Drain well, then stir into the sauce. Add the apples, cheddar and some seasoning, and stir again. Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.

STEP 4

Pour the filling into a 28cm oval baking dish (ours was 28 x 18.5 x 6.5cm). While it cools, roll out the pastry on a surface lightly dusted with flour to the thickness of a £1 coin. Cut into strips roughly 1cm wide. Lay half the strips across the dish horizontally, leaving gaps of a few millimetres inbetween, then, one by one, weave in the remaining strips vertically, using an over and under technique,

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 seared pork, then simmer, half-covered 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.

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.

also spacing them apart by a few millimetres. Re-roll any trimmings and cut into flowers, leaves, or other shapes to decorate, if you like (see tip, below). Arrange any pastry shapes on top, then brush with the beaten egg.

STEP 5 Bake for 50 mins, keeping an eye on it – you may need to cover the top with foil if it’s starting to brown too quickly. Leave to cool for at least 10 mins before serving.

Gangster thriller hailed as a masterpiece

No matter how original a film is, at some point the concept behind it has probably been tried out in some way.

Whether it be the Lion King basically being feline Hamlet, or Star Wars being The Hidden Fortress meets Flash Gordon, films have always drawn from others.

It is no criticism on John Wick then to say that Netflix’s No.1 film right now has been dubbed ‘the original John Wick’.

It has undeniable similarities, a rugged main star who is most well-known for an iconic franchise, graphic violence, gangsters, and once again,

graphic violence.

The film has been dubbed a 10/10 ‘masterpiece’ thriller by fans as it shot up the charts to be the top film on the streaming platform right now.

Directed by the legendary David Cronenberg, many consider it his best film.

The film in question is A History Of Violence, and it stars Lord of The Rings’ Viggo Mortensen, in addition to Ed Harris [pictured], Maria Bello, and William Hurt.

Released in cinemas in 2005, the R Rated film full of sex and violence focuses on Mortensen’s character Tom – a mild-mannered

man who brings trouble to his small town after a heroic act.

Based on a graphic novel of the same name, the heroic act he performs –saving the customers of his small-town diner – is a brutal scene.

The film has a whopping score of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, and an average rating on IMDb of 7.4.

David Denby of the New Yorker said of the film: “Cronenberg’s direction, mirroring the split in Tom, is alternately measured and frighteningly explosive, and, as always, he gives the movie a nasty underlay of sexual perversity.”

to stream for month of August 5

The film has a crackling sense of visual tension.

Adam Smith of Empire gave the film 4/5, saying: “Cronenberg’s best for a long time, broad and entertaining enough for those unacquainted with the director’s work, but layered with the themes of infection and mutation that have defined his work.”

Thankfully this isn’t just an artsy film loved by critics leaving fans questioning what they just watched,

A History Of Violence has a 76% audience score with over 250,000 reviews, and a glowing set of IMDb reviews.

Check it out...

And check out Gosling and Hopkins too

Directed by Primal Fear‘s Gregory Hoblit, 2007’s Fracture stars Ryan Gosling as a brash hotshot lawyer preparing to make a career change from criminal prosecution to a private firm. However, when Anthony Hopkins’ wealthy engineer shoots his wife after discovering she’s been having an affair, a cut-and-tried attempted murder charge

proves to be anything but. Despite the evidence appearing insurmountable at first glance, Hopkins’ Ted Crawford shows himself to be a wily operator. Opting to represent himself in court and effortlessly extricating himself from his predicament, he walks free before engaging in an increasingly dangerous game of cat and mouse with Gos-

ling’s Willy Beachum. Packed full of twists, turns, and misdirection, Fracture is the sort of legal thriller existing in a semi-heightened reality that audiences can never seem to get enough of, which was reflected when the $10million movie recouped its budget more than nine times over at the global box office. Seventeen years after its

release, Fracture has gained a new lease of life as a fresh addition to the Netflix content library, becoming one of the most-watched titles in Ireland. Gosling and Hopkins make for a compelling central pair, and watching the two powerhouses of their respective eras pit their wits against each other makes it well worth checking out.

1. Emily In Paris, S4

Emily Cooper is back navigating life and love in the City of Lights. Streaming on Netflix in two parts, the first half of season four follows the aftermath of Camille and Gabriel’s almost wedding, not to mention Emily’s seriously awkward breakup with Alfie. Torn between two men, there’s plenty of love triangle drama in store for the fashion-obsessed marketing exec. Does her heart lie with charming chef Gabriel or dashing Brit Alfie?

2. The Lord Of The Rings: Rings of Power, S2

Middle-earth is in greater danger than ever. With Halbrand unmasked as the villainous Sauron, Galadriel is on a mission to stop him in his tracks. As the Dark Lord works to oversee the creation of the Rings of Power and bind the peoples of Middle-earth to his sinister will, our favourite elves, dwarves, Harfoots and wizards must face the rising tide of darkness. Will be release on Amazon Prime on August 29 .

3. Unstable, S2

Rob Lowe reprises his role as grieving biotech genius, Ellis Dragon. Having reconnected with his estranged son Jackson (played by Rob’s real-life son, John Owen Lowe), Ellis decides to put him through his paces, using challenges and mind games to determine if Jackson has what it takes to inherit his company one day. On Netflix

4. Pachinko, S2

Following the success on Apple TV+ of series one, Pachinko’s sophomore season picks up in Osaka, in 1945. Driven to protect her family at all costs, Sunja is forced to make some difficult decisions to survive World War II. Meanwhile, in Tokyo in 1989, Sunja’s grandson Solomon is planning his biggest business deal yet. Release date is August 23.

5. Kaos

Jeff Goldblum transforms into Zeus in Netflix’s latest Odyssey. Determined to hold onto his status and power, the almighty god might just fall from grace if his former friend, Prometheus, has anything to say about it.

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

CLUB LOTTO

Lotto results for the 6th August.Numbers drawn 16, 23, 26. No Jackpot winner.

€30 each to -Dermot Nolan, Tom Barcoe, Paul Delaney, Breda Prendergast, Jim Murphy.

KILKENNY ARTS WEEK

The Craft Fair is being held in the Presentation School Parnell Street during Arts Week from the 9th to the 18th of August. Clara’s Donal McDonald will have a stand there with marble products for sale. Donal is also doing two days of an exhibition in Langtons on John Street for Heritage Week on Tuesday and Wednesday 20th and 21st August from 11am to 7pm. The theme of the exhibition is Kilkenny the Marble City and Colles and the Irish Marble Company with photographs and artefacts on show. All welcome.

JUNIOR D’S BOW OUT

The Clara Junior D team bowed out of the championship on Friday night in Clara as they were well beaten 3-18 to 2-7 by a slick Rower Inistioge side. A glut of injuries in the Clara senior panel meant that the Junior Ds were shorn of the services of some of their eligible players and they weren’t nearly as polished looking in this game as in their victory over the Village.

The Rower looked the better team throughout and led 2-7 to 1-4 at halftime, the Clara scores coming from Cian Kelly 1-3f and Conor Curly Phelan 0-1. Cian added another 1-2 from frees in the second half and Ned Langton 0-1 was the only other scorer for Clara. Clara didn’t even have the luxury of any substitute to introduce to try to alter the course of this game.

Team - Paul Murphy, Tommy Delaney, Mick McDonald, James Dowling. Ben Crow, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy. Alan Coleman, Pádraic Staunton. Noelie O Brien, Ned Langton 0-1, Curly Phelan 0-1. Dillon Cummins, Cian Kelly 2-5, 1-0p, 1-5f, Nick O Keeffe.

SENIORS LOSE

Clara’s seniors were edged out by Graigue Ballycallan on Sunday in the Kells Road to leave them pointless after two games. Already down four players, they lost Jack Langton to what seemed like a hamstring injury after just 10 minutes. Nevertheless they only trailed 1-10 to 0-10 at halftime, their scores having come from James Bergin 0-5, 0-4f , Paul Cody 0-2, Lester Ryan 0-1, Dara Glynn 0-1 and Conor Hoyne 0-1. Any hope Clara had of winning this disappeared 12 minutes into the second half when a Clara player was harshly dismissed. They bravely battled to the end but Graigue Ballycallan had enough in the tank to keep them at bay. See People Sport for full report.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Dara Glynn 0-1, Sean O Shea, Shane Staunton. Harry Boyle, Jack Langton, Martin O Connell. Conor O Shea, Liam Ryan 0-2. James Bergin 0-6, 0-5f, Paul Cody 0-5, Sean Carrigan. Conor Hoyne 0-2, Lester Ryan 0-1, Chris Bolger. Subs used Joe Connolly, Paddy Bolger, Peter Nolan, Killian Phelan.

CAMOGIE

There was heartbreak for Clara’s Rachel Whelan in Croke Park on Sunday when Kilkenny were agonisingly beaten by

a last gasp Cork point in the All Ireland Intermediate final. Despite picking up an early yellow card, Rachel never put a foot wrong all day and did everything in her power to get Kilkenny over the line. Hard luck Rachel!

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

RACE NIGHT

O’Loughlin Gaels annual Race Night at Kilkenny Greyhound Track will take place tonight Friday 16th August at 7.30pm. It’s the club’s biggest fundraiser of the year so every member is asked to support it. It’s always a fun night out so don’t miss out. Make sure you are there. Time is running out to get your ticket costing just €10. Contact for tickets or queries Nigel Leydon 086-2307279.

SUMMER CAMP

The second week of the O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Summer Camp last week in St. John’s Park proved just as successful and enjoyable as the first week for the 140 plus children who attended. In addition to the fun and activities, games and practising their skills the children enjoyed getting their new gear and made lots of new friends. Well done to all of the coaches for their great work.

WEEKEND WINS

O’Loughlin Gaels has victories on two fronts at the weekend. The senior hurlers enjoyed a win over Mullinavat in their St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League game in Thomastown on Sunday. In what was a good performance goals from Luke Hogan and Jack Nolan and a succession of points ensured a 2-18 to 0-9 win. With two wins from two secured the next game will be on Saturday 24th August against Erin’s Own of Castlecomer in Ballyragget at 12pm.

The Junior E team won their JJ Kavanagh and Sons championship quarter final against St. Martin’s in St. John’s Park on Saturday last by 3-15 to 1-16. The groundwork for this win was laid with three first half goals. The first was set up by CJ Mc Chemcheu whose run and pass opened up the St. Martin’s defence and placed Joe Bolger to goal. The second goal followed a minute later when a shot by Fiona Lawlor was deflected by a defender into his own goal. Shortly before half time Alan Geoghegan showed he has lost none of his skill when he drilled home a penalty. At half time the scoreboard read 3-6 to 1-7.

O’Loughlin’s hit the first three points of the second half from a Shane Maher free, and points from play from Michael Butler and Joe Bolger. St. Martin’s tried hard to get back into the game but struggled to get past the O’Loughlin’s backs. When they did Michael Lambert in the goal made an excellent save. O’Loughlin’s finished the game strongly and will now await the draw to see who their semi-final opponents will be.

Team and Scorers: Michael Lambert, Michael Twomey, Gavin Mahony, Jack Kearns, Peter Mc Namara 0-1, Alan Geoghegan 1-0 penalty, Eoin Bennett, Mark Croghan, CJ Mc Chemceau 0-1, Michael Butler 0-4, Luke Quigley, Aaron Maher 0-2, Joe Bolger 1-3, Shane Maher 0-4 frees, Fionn Lawlor 1-0.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels Club lotto dated August 6th. Numbers drawn 14, 17, 19, 24 Bonus 2. Play

now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto. Thank you for your continued support Promotors Draw, 1. Trish Burke c/o Eddie Burke.2. Mick and Mags c/o Gerry Buckley.

3. Andy O’ Keeffe c/o Brian Murphy. 4. Martina Tyrrell c/o Noel Tyrrell. 5. Sinead Dowling c/o Peter Dowling. 6. Richie Moylan. 7. MandH , CandB, PandC c/o Hugh Mahon. 8. Susan Kelly c/o Online. 9. Lisa Ayre c/o Online. 10.Niamh O’Halloran c/o Online.

FRESHFORD

OLYMPICS CONNECTION

Sinead Diver who represented Australia in the Olympics in Paris is daughter in law of Pat and Ann Cullinane, Kilkenny Street, Freshford and Limerick. Sinead who is formerly from Belmullet County Mayo was taking part in the Women’s Marathon on Sunday morning but unfortunately had to pull out due to an injury.

BINGO

Weekly bingo sessions started back up in Freshford Community Hall two weeks ago with a good crowd in attendance. It is great to see the bingo back in the village after a lapse of over 20 years and the weekly game will be held each Friday evening at 8pm with some good prize money and raffle each week . All proceeds will go to the Irish Wheelchair association. People are asked to please support this weekly fundraiser and tell your friends and spread the word around.

GAA NEWS

St Lachtains Junior Hurlers had a god win over Kilmacow on Saturday last when they came out deserving winners on a score line of 3-25 to 1-14.

The Junior Bs had great win in an epic battle with Bennettsbridge in the championship semi-final on Sunday in Danesfort. The game was a close affair throughout with neither team edging too far ahead at any stage. The Freshford men dug in deep at the end to go ahead by a point and see off a late Bennettsbridge challenge. St Lachtains will take on fellow parishioners Threecastles in the final in a couple of weeks time. Team: R Dowling, J Hickey, L Kennedy, C Leahy, J Bowden, J Bergin, S Dawson, C Donnelly, C Dalton, C Dawson, N McGree, A Rafter, M Durnan, J Burke, P Campion. Sub used: J Campion.

RACE NIGHT

St Lachtains annual race night is taking place a few weeks earlier this year on Friday August 23rd in the Kilkenny track. There will be a raffle with lots of great prizes on the night, keep an eye out for ticket sellers. Anyone looking to sponsor a race or contribute in any way can contact any committee member.

TABLE QUIZ

St Lachtains Bord na Og held a very successful table quiz in Kavanaghs Bar recently. Winners on the night were the Costelloe family Richard, Louise, Jim and James. Raffle winners were: Brendan O’Reilly V.Bergin, K.O’Connor and C.Donnelly. The committee thank all those who supported the fundraiser and all who donated or contributed in any way.

COMMUNITY MARKET

Freshford Community Cafe launched its Community market recently and it is held in the Alley each Saturday from 10am – 1pm selling fresh vegetables fruit flowers etc., and all local support would be greatly appreciated. New stalls would be very welcome and anyone interested in taking a stall can contact any member of the Committee.

The Loop café is open each day from Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pn.with some lovely treats and food on offer at a very reasonable price. This is a great addition to the village and people are asked to support local business. So why not meet your friends there for a cuppa and chat IONAD LACHTAIN

St St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre. is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30pm. SPLIT THE POT

This month’s split the pot proceeds goes to Freshford squash Club who provide great facilities for young people of the area. Last week’s winner was Frances Colclough who won €137. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs. Please support your local clubs.

BRIDGE

Freshford bridge club continues every Monday at 7.30pm in Tulla Hall, Threecastles. New members are always very welcome. For further information please contact Olive on 087 9257610.

PARISH NEWS

Mass

is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. and 11am Maas in St.Lachtains Church on Sundays. 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 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. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. 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 or on 087 25235 21 HELP FOR

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

Enjoying O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camps with somw Kilkenny players

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.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

ALL-IRELAND CAMOGIE

It was heartbreak for the Kilkenny Intermediate camogie team and club players Hannah Scott, Aoife Cantwell and substitute goalkeeper Tara Murphy as the Cork girls surged through with a late burst of scores in added time to claim a 1-11 to 1-10 victory in a thrilling All-Ireland Intermediate final in Croke Park. Hannah Scott was peerless at left half back throughout the game and scored a long range point in the first half when Kilkenny were in need of scores while Aoife Cantwell worked tirelessly in the midfield area before being withdrawn in the second half of a high quality and tense encounter. With little between the teams throughout the game the Kilkenny girls were clinging on to a 1-10 to 1-08 lead in the closing minutes when the Leesiders received a boost of adrenaline when their sharpshooter, Lauren Homan converted a difficult free from the sideline. Three minutes into added time following continuous pressure by the Cork girls a rushed clearance from the Kilkenny defence fell to the unmarked Cork substitute Fiona Nelligan who duly dispatched the sliothar over the bar to claim the Jack McCarthy Cup for the 5th time in their history.

SENIOR HURLING

In Saturday evening’s 2nd round senior league fixture a highly motivated Dicksboro displaying a crisp passing and free flowing brand of hurling raced into a commanding 2-06 to 0-02 lead inside the first 15 minutes against a strangely subdued James Stephens team on a well prepared John’s Park playing surface. In a welcome change of attitude over the closing 15 minutes of the half the James Stephens defence tightened up considerably holding their opponents to just four more points. Meanwhile, following a Luke Scanlon point in the 16th minute the misfiring Village forwards found their form and scoring accuracy picking off points by Cian Kenny, (0-04), Ed Lauhoff, Ross Whelan and Shane Parsons to narrow the divide at 2-10 to 0-10 at the half time break. Much credit for the improved form must be attributed to the hard graft of the younger players in the lineup, Ed Lauhoff, Sean Bergin and Ed McDermott. On the resumption, and inside the 1st minute, after Gavin Costigan rushed from his line to smother a certain Dicksboro goal chance the James Stephens forwards continued their recovery with three points from Luke Scanlon mixed with a fine single score from Willie Spencer. Despite this positive turn of events Dicksboro still held a strong 2-15 to 0-14 lead at the 16th minute. Over the closing quarter with continuing tigerish tackling by captain Luke Murphy, Micky Byrne and Diarmuid Cody the Village backs held their opponents scoreless which helped the revitalised Village forward line, despite the loss of the influential Ed McDermott through injury, to register a run of point scoring from play and frees from the camans of Cian Kenny (0-04) Ed Lauhoff (20mins) Luke Scanlon (23mins) to set up a nail biting closing few minutes. With the final result on a knife edge at 2-15 to 0-20 in the 29th minute ‘The Boro regrouped and forced a 20 meter free which they converted from a tight angle and added a second in the 31st minute for security before substitute Noah Manogue hit a fine point from the sideline but it was not enough to deprive Dicksboro of victory and the vital two league points.

FAMILY DAY

Despite the disappointment of the senior hurlers’ defeat to Dicksboro earlier in the day, a large gathering of players, young and young at heart, their parents/guardians and club supporters turned up at the club’s Larchfield headquarters for the annual summer BBQ evening. The event has become a very popular evening of fun and games like Hanging Tough, 3 Legged races, Egg and Spoon and Bean Bag races for the club’s future generation of players to enjoy. DJ Scooter kept the crowd entertained with lively music while parents enjoyed a tasty burger and a refreshment of choice. Embracing the warm sunshine there was a large mix of past and present players enjoying the craic and reminiscing about their own past glories and missed opportunities while speculating about what might happen in upcoming championship campaigns. Our thanks to the organising committee who put in many hours preparing for the popular social event which brings the club membership, sponsors and wider parish community together giving real meaning to the close bond that exists for decades between the club and St.Patrick’s parish.

SUMMER CAMP

The annual Summer Camp is up and running since Monday morning, 12th. Aug., with almost 200 young Village boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 12 enjoying a week of Gaelic games coaching in a fun and safe environment. Co-ordinator Bob Cody has a team of 24 well qualified coaches ready to pass on their expertise to the young hurlers and camogie players during a busy week of activities. Bob is also expecting a visit from some of the club’s senior hurlers and camogie stars to the camp towards the end of the week to deliver some worthwhile tips gained from their own playing experiences over the years. On Friday afternoon, the last day of the camp, Bob extends an open invitation to parents/guardians and club members to join the group for a cup of tea/coffee in the club shop area at 12 noon on the Kells Road prior to the collection of the

children.

CLUB CAMOGIE

On Tuesday evening, of last week, the club’s U-16 camogie team played their first championship fixture of the season and came away with a comfortable 6-10 to 5-04 win against Glenmore on their home ground. Glenmore started brightly and built an 8 point lead inside the first ten minutes. Having tightened up their defence the Village girls responded well, turned the tables and took a one point lead into the half time break. Continuing to build on their comeback in the 2nd half, James Stephens eventually broke the Glenmore girls resistance with a couple of goals to set them on their way to a comprehensive victory. This was an impressive team victory with exceptional displays from Daisy Coomey, Aoibh Lawlor and Lucy Lennon in defence. Mia Dunne’s accuracy from frees coupled with exceptional work from Lucy Coomey and Laura Barton in midfield and the point scoring of Laura Leahy was a major help in the recovery. Niamh Moore was a major contributor with 2-01 to her credit and Emily Lauhoff chipped in with a three pointer to complete a positive start to the club’s 2024 championship campaign

PODCAST

Why not take time out to listen to Liam Kelly-O’Rourke’s latest club podcast which features interesting conversations on all matters relating to the club developments, team prospects, camogie and county teams. Interviewed on the programme are senior selector, Eoin Larkin, minor manager Joe Murray, Bill Lahart on club sponsorship, Hannah Scott and Aoife Cantwell on their prospects in Sunday’s All-Ireland intermediate final and junior manager Dan Cody. All in all, an interesting programme to help keep supporters updated on all club affairs both on and off the field of play.

HERITAGE WEEK

A reminder from Loughboy Library that on Friday 23rd August from 3.45 to 4.45 pm, storyteller Helena will be presenting an enchanting afternoon of Irish folk tales delving into the mysteries of Irish Fairies and superstitions. The enjoyable event is suitable for children aged 7 years and upwards and even grown-ups. Then later that evening from 6 to 7.45pm, Ann Moylan will present a lecture on Ancient Irish Wakes. The presentation will explore how, whether riotous or reverent, the Wake was an important ritual for the Irish to honour the spirit of their dead. Please note that because of the mature content of the lecture it is confined to adults only. For anyone interested in either or both events phone the library at 056 7794176 or log on to loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie to book a place

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 11 : 13 : 14 ; 23. No Winner This week’s jackpot will be € 17,400. The €40 consolation winners were Joan Cody, Tom Keane, Amanda Quigley, Emma Hallissey and Mary Murphy.

GOWRAN

GOWRAN AC

Well done to Chloe on finishing off a great season with a 3rd place in the Northern Ireland Seniors Pole Vault last Saturday.

DALTON HOUSE

Invite you to celebrate their 25 year birthday on the 18th August, from 1pm to 5pm in Dalton House. They will have music, food, drink, games and prizes! The art group will be exhibiting their paintings from the 7th August, so pop in have a gander and enjoy a coffee in Molly’s Tea Room.

GOWRAN PARK GOLF

Congratulations to the winners of the Open Week ladies two person team event Lottie Boote and Yvonne Hennessy. Presentation by Lady Captain Lucy Condon. Congratulations to all the prize winners.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT

Well done to Michael Holland on his second place finish in the National Junior Strokeplay finals at R.G.S.C. club in Dublin. A final round of level par saw Michael secure second to continue his good run of form.

Well done Michael and all who represented the club.

GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE

Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa will take place from the 18th to 21st October 2024 in Gowran Parish Hall. Further info regarding how to book tickets will be available soon.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

GRAIG NOTES

If you should wish to submit news items, club events, announcements etc you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com. Deadline is Saturday 6pm.

LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER

This Week’s numbers drawn on 28/08 /24 were 10, 12, 19, 22. there was no winner, The following won €30 each Edel Kennedy, Dawn Cuddihy , Jennifer Broaders, Bridget May, Joan Doyle Rooney. Tickets are available from any club member.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW

The glorious winners for the draw which took place on 08/08/ 2024, were First Prize €450, The Yank’s C/O Mick’s, 2nd Prize €50 Anna and Brody. 3rd Prize, €25, Nula Walsh. Money raised through Tidy Towns Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all the year round. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

RAMBLING HOUSE

The Monthly Rambling House Session is on the second Friday of the month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also from the surrounding district. The next Session is on Friday September 13th at 8.00pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Monday to Friday 10 AM, Saturday 7,30 PM, And Sunday 11AM.

CLINIC

Cllr. Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere will hold his clinic on Monday Evenings From 7pm at his office in Main Street Graiguenamanagh.

BARROW RANGERS

Well done and hard luck to local ladies, Shauna Treacey and Ellen Purcell as well as Tommy Wall in the background team for the All-Ireland Intermediate camogie final last weekend. Cork squeezed in at the very end. We will have another day!

BOXING CLUB

Paulstown Boxing Club is open to registration by current members on Friday 23th August. New members welcome to register on Monday 26th August. The registration fee is €40.

BRIDGE UNITED

The club needs your help with our Under-8s next season. If you are interested in helping with coaching next season please contact Colin 087 6528212.

CHURCH SERVICES

Cemetery mass at 7.30pm in Holy Family cemetery (Paulstown) on 16th August.

Weekend masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday as well as in Paulstown at 11.30am Sunday. Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown this Friday and the following Tuesday and in Goresbridge, Wednesday, at 10am. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm.

COMMUNITY GARDEN

Continues this Wednesday morning at 11am – 1pm at the Goresbridge Respond House in St Bridget’s Close.

CONCERT

RTE Radio 1 singer of the year Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh with her trio in concert at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge on Friday 6th September at 8.30pm. Supported on Mouth Organs by John and Pip Murphy from Carrig On Bannow, Co. Wexford. This promises to be a fantastic night of top class music and song. Tickets €23.00 available from Gerry Kavanagh tel. 086 0443152 or on Eventbrite.ie.

COUCH TO 5KM

All welcome to a weekly meet up at the playground in Goresbridge at 8pm every Thursday. We walk for up to an hour around the track. Walk as little or as much as you like.

CUPLA FOCAL

Weekly Friday chatting in Irish continues over a cuppa in the Goodly Barrow this Friday at 11am.

NATURE’S WAY (BORRIS AND GORESBRIDGE AREAS)

A pre-school and after-school service opens from 8.30am to 6pm daily from the beginning of September at Scoil Bhríde in Goresbridge. Information: Ann O’Kelly (085 752 9485) or Michelle Cummins (089 947 3317).

SPLIT THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie

TAR ISTEACH (GORESBRIDGE)

Items including bric-a-brac, dishes, mugs, pictures, vases, pottery welcome. For now, please, no more ladies clothes. The shop is now open from 9am-5pm, Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4.30pm Friday and 10am-1pm Saturday.

BENNETTSBRIDGE

EXHIBITION LAUNCH

Months of work by members of the Bennettsbridge Art group had a pleasant sequel on Friday night when their 2024 Art Collection was launched. There was a great attendance including family and friends. Joan Cleere spoke on behalf of the group. She welcomed everyone and hoped that they would agree that the exhibition was one of their best to date. “We are so disappointed that our tutor of many years, Julie Moorhouse cannot be with us tonight due to a family commitment. But she is with us in spirit and the success of this event can be attributed to her patience and encouragement for so many years.

Thanks to all our families for their support throughout the year. Also thank group members for their efforts in the past few days sorting, hanging, framing etc, not an easy job. We were lucky to have Julie and her son Stevie on hand for this Joan went on to introduce, Siobhán O’Brien from the KCETB, (Kilkenny Carlow Education Training Board). Siobhán and her colleagues in the Kilkenny office have played a major part in the success of this group. They have supported us over the years even during Covid times and we are so appreciative of this support.

We were delighted when Siobhán made herself available to open our exhibition this year. Siobhan said she was thrilled to be asked to open the exhibition as it is great to see the actual work in an exhibition. She congratulated the artists on the variety displayed and offered on-going support where possible in the coming months. She then declared the 2024 Art Exhibition open.

Elma Kharaghani presented a bouquet of flowers to Siobhán and Joan Cleere was presented with a bouquet by Daphne Hunt for her work in co-ordinating the group. Thanks to all sponsors, Lamber de Bie, Centra and all who contributed to the evening. Much appreciation for the bouquet of sweet peas.

KILKENNY PHOTOGRAPHY

Local photographer Anne Dowling is taking part in the 39th Kilkenny Photographic Society Exhibition running in McDonagh Junction during Arts Week.

MENS SHED

Members of the Mens Shed organised a real community celebration for Zahra Khodabacksh World Irish dancing champion last week. Zahra and her family attended the weekly meeting of the Men’s Shed. Afternoon tea was enjoyed and a full attendance enjoyed a performance by the young dancer and she was joined by her sister Sofia in the dances. They were well received by the menfolk.

Fr Duggan said he was delighted to be present. He congratulated Zahra on her achievements and said the parish was proud of her and he wished her well in the future. Noel Ryan made a presentation of a bouquet of flowers to Zahra and an engraved Jerpoint Glass piece was then presented to the young dancer by Paddy Lanigan.

GATHERING GROUP

Members of the Gathering Group had a mid-summer coffee morning in Crafted Cafe on Wednesday. There was time to catch up on news and discuss plans for the return to the weekly meetings. Gail and her team looked after them with their usual efficient service.

LOTTO

No winner of Jackpot last week. Numbers, 12, 18, 26, 27. Consolation Prizes, Michael Denieffe, Junior, Anne Marie Moran, Bennettsbridge, Marian Costigan, Grovine, Sue Doyle, 2, The Ring, Shangarry Syndicate.

CARD GAME RESULTS

30th July. First Prize Marie/Johno Reid and Richie Proctor/ Eugene Malone (11 games) Table Prize Mary Whelan/Pat Hanlon.

5th August. First Prize Brian Ireland/Pat Savage and Declan Byrne/Eugene Malone (10 games) Table Prize Nicky Fitzpatrick/Neddie Walsh

COIS NORE OUTREACH SERVICE

Mens Shed Presentation to Zahra Khodabacksh, World Irish Dancing Champion

Community & GAA Notes

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny will be bringing a new Outreach Service to the community of Thomastown and the surrounding areas every Thursday. The new service will commence on Thursday the 22 August 2024. The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held at the Thomastown Community Hall Centre in the morning from 10 am to 12 pm. Please do not hesitate to drop in for information or an appointment.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to John Joe (Sammy) Kelly and family on the death of Sammy’s father, Sean Kelly (late of Maudlin Street Church Grounds, Kilkenny and Kilderry, Johnswell who died at Drakelands House Nursing Home. He is survived by his sons, John Joe (Sammy) and Declan. He is also mourned by, daughters-in-law Marie and Edwina, grandsons Shane, Nevin, John and Stephen, great-grandchildren Leah, Nevin, Hayley and Luke, Shane’s partner Lisa Meaney, John’s partner Kelly Rose Fitzsimmons, extended family and friends.

Prayers and Rosary were recited at Hehir’s followed by removal to St. Patrick’s Church. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Patrick’s church followed by interment in St. Kieran’s Cemetery.

CAMOGIE

Well done to local camogie players, Katie and Amy who played with the Kilkenny Ambers and won the U14 Mary Moran Cup at the weekend.

Also to Alice and Leah playing with the Stripes team winning the Rosina McManus Cup. A brilliant day for everyone involved, we are very proud of these girls who are flying the flag for our club. A fantastic achievement to be bringing home All Ireland medals.

Not forgetting the U12 girls who scored another great win in their championship match against Tullogher.

EAST END SOCCER

East End United Soccer Club are looking for coaches for their adult teams. Volunteers across both the adult and juvenile sections are welcome.

GAA NEWS

Club

Hurling

Bennettsbridge seniors lost out by 4 points to Thomastown in the second round of the senior league played in Thomastown last Saturday. The next round is versus James Stephens on Friday week in Danesfort. Our junior B team lost out to Freshford by one point in the championship semi-final.

Field Day 2024

All roads will lead to Bennettsbridge this Sunday for the 2024 Field Day.

A great family day is in store. Any local businesses who would like to showcase their wares on the day or anyone wishing to exhibit arts and crafts please contact Andrea on 0871226882. Volunteers are needed on the day, setting up and manning stalls etc. Donations of prizes for the Wheel of Fortune, bottle bank etc., are greatly appreciated.

Bric-a-brac, toys, children’s books only in good condition, accepted on Friday August 16th from 6.30 pm to 8 pm and from 9.30am to 11.30ma on Saturday August 17th. Home baking on the morning of the field day. Thanks again for the continued support.

Dog Fouling in Pitch

Please note no dogs are allowed in the playing pitch, fouling has again become an issue and in the interest of health and safety we ask all to keep dogs outside the GAA grounds. Split the Pot

The next draw takes place next Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Thanks again for the support.

CLUB LOTTO

Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 8th August 2024. Nos: 8 21 24 31. Jackpot:Not Won.

Draw Prizes. €50: Rebecca Walsh c/o Joe Phelan. €25 each Kevin Gallagher c/o Paddy Maher. €25 each Jack McCormack c/o Tommy Hackett. €25 each Kevin Nolan c/o online.

Hurlers Co Op John Slattery c/o Paddy Maher. Promotors prize Tom ODonoghue . We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up and play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so.

KILKENNY INTERMEDIATE CAMOGIE

Unfortunately the Kilkenny Intermediate Team fell short on Sunday afternoon in Croke Park to lose by a single point to Cork. But all in Dicksboro are very proud of our four Club Girls who wore the black and amber and represented our Club so well. We look forward to seeing Rachel, Rose, Jane and Angela back in action soon for Club Games. Thanks to all our Club Members who supported the girls recently with fundraising.

SENIOR CAMOGIE FINAL

Dicksboro were crowned Senior League Champions 2024 with victory over Tullaroan in extra time in a close and

Our u6 boys hosted James Stephens last weekend in a mini blitz. The boys played 4 games with some great skill on show along with lots of fun. Thanks to the Village for coming over to Palmerstown and to all the coaches and parents who came to support.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

A Free Electrical waste collectionwill be held on Tuesday August 20th at St Patrick’s GAA club. The collection by WEEE in conjunction with Kilkenny County Council will take place between 10am and 1pm.

SYMPATHY

The death has taken place of Paddy Liston, Moate Road, Ballyragget, condolences are sent to his loving wife Margaret, his daughters Vanessa, Ann, Macy and his son Stuart, brothers John and Haulie, sisters-in-law , brother-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, relatives Paddy was laid to rest in his native Athena in Limerick on Wednesday14th August. May Paddy rest in peace.

DICKSBORO

entertaining final played in ideal conditions at Tullaroan GAA Grounds. Final score Dicksboro 2-17 Tullaroan 2-16.

No Quarter Given at the U6 Blitz

Dicksboro were crowned Senior League Champions 2024

It is all Action at the U6 Blitz

Alice and Leah, Stripes team with the Rosina McManus Cup.

Paddy Lanigan, Mens Shed presents a specially engraved Jerpoint Glass Bowl to Zahra Khodabacksh.

Katie and Amy Kilkenny Ambers U14s Mary Moran Cup.

Noel (Bowly)Ryan presents flowers to Zahra Khodabacksh.

past week initially against Graiguenamangh on Wednesday 4th in Clara where they came out on the wrong side of the result on a sore line of 2-15 to 1-20. On Sunday they were up against Slieverue in Bennettsbridge this time they were victorious on a scoreline of 3-19 to 1-13 they will next meet Freshford on August 25th. The club is currently running a fundraiser for the continued development of club facilities. We are aware that the players are making a strong effort to get people on board so you may well be already supporting. If not, it is €10 to enter and you stand to win €1000 euro if you are the last person left!! It is a Last Man Standing for the premier league starting next week. Deadline to enter is Thursday. *Revolut €10* to 085 1259832 with -your *name* -*number* -and *a team to win* to from week one fixtures Then just send a team each week to win (can’t pick the same team twice) Thanks again to all those who have supported already HerOutdoors is a national campaign about getting more women and girls to partake in physical activity in the outdoors. They have 2 programmes that are running out in Castlecomer for this year’s HerOutdoors. One is for teenagers where in Castlecomer Discovery Park they will get to try everything Castlecomer Discovery Park will have to offer. This programme is run over 4 evenings with the whole programme only costing 20euro to participants. The link to sign up for this programme is here:https://www.krsp.ie/ event/2024-krsp-heroutdoors-castlecomer-discovery-park/ They are also running a Mountain Biking programme for adult women. This is also run in Castlecomer Discovery Park. Over 4 weeks the participants will get to learn skills of mountain biking. All equipment will be provided including bikes. More information on this programme is here:https://www. krsp.ie/event/2024-krsp-castlecomer-mountain-biking/ RELICS OF ST BERNADETTE OF LOURDES

The Relics of St Bernadette of Lourdes will visit the Diocese of Ossory the weekend of September 21st/22nd at St Marys Catherderal, Kilkenny.

TIDY TOWNS

Tidy towns- as the second round of judging is starting soon people are asked to keep up the hard work, the town is looking great. Many thanks to the Men’s Shed for their recent assistance in painting of the planters around the town.

CANCER SUPPORT

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre Kilkenny will be bringing a new Outreach Service to the community of Ballyragget and the surrounding areas every Monday. The new service will commence on Monday the 12th of August 2024. The Cois Nore Outreach service will be held at Dr Miriam Hogan’s rooms on the Square in Ballyragget in the morning from 10 am to 12 noon. Please do not hesitate to drop in for information and support. Alternatively you can make an appointment by contacting (087-4833941).

JOHNSTOWN

WEDDINGS

Congratulations to the following couples who were married recently. Niamh, daughter of Eddie and Helen Cullinane, Ballyspellan and James, son of Bertie and Helen Tobin, the Ridge, Urlingford who were married in St. Kieran’s Church. Linda, daughter of Paddy and Margaret Sweeney, Spa Hill and Liam Butler, Templetouhy who were married in St. Munchin’s Church, Gathabawn and Tommy, son of Willie and Patti Costigan, Ballycuddihy and Amy Caulfield, Kilkenny who were married in Kildare. They are wished long and happy lives together.

ST. ANNE’S CAMOGIE CLUB

St. Anne’s Camogie Club will hold their annual Golf Classic in Rathdowney G.C. on Saturday August 31st. Team of four scramble €120. Prizes for GUI players and non GUI players, nearest the pin, ladies and gents longest drive. To book a tee time call John on 0876119596.

HERITAGE GROUP

As a contribution to Heritage week the group will host a talk from Padraig O’Meachain to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the execution of six local men on August 26th 1824 for the killing of local landlord John Marum. The talk will take place on Sunday August 25th at Eirke, Castletown, Galmoy at 3pm.For further details contact the group on 0863272288 or email johnstownheritagegroup@gmail.com.

URLINGFORD LIBRARY

A bee pollinator event will take place on Saturday 17th August from 12 to 1pm. Join beekeeper Edel for an interactive presentation about wild bees and honeybees and how the All Ireland Pollinator Plan developed to help them. She will be bringing along an educational hive (empty) a smoker and a beesuit that you can try on. Suitable for ages 8 to 12 years. The “Tales and Travels of Otherworld” by storyteller Helena for age 7 upwards. Join Helena for an enchanting hour of Irish folk tales delving into the mysteries of Irish Fairies, tales of the otherworld and superstitions of old, the Banshee, the Pooka , Piseogs and Fairy Forts. Summer Stars reading challenge finishes on Aug. 31st.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The latest winning numbers 9,10,13,29. One match three Milo Quinlan. Well done Milo.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

CLOSED FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The Centre will be closed from Friday the 2nd of August until Monday 19th August.

FAMILY FUN DAY

This year’s Mill Family Fun Day is on Sunday the 25 th August

2024, 1.30 – 4.30pm, in the Centre. This fundraiser is in aid of our Counselling and Play Therapy Services.

ST KIERAN’S HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY

Applications are invited for the Vacant Tenancy of a onebedroom house at St Kieran’s Place, Urlingford. To be eligible to apply you must be on the Kilkenny County Council Housing list. Applications are available from the Centre.

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I.

Names been taken for L.T.I. Q.Q.I. Level 4 due to start soon.

NEW COURSES

There are two new courses commencing this September, Office Admin. One morning a week commencing on Monday 9th September. Basic Computers. One morning a week commencing on Wednesday 11th September. These will run up to May 2025.

We are having an information morning on these courses here in the centre on Friday the 30th August from 10.a.m until 12.p.m. Everybody welcome.

COUNSELLING SERVICES

Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult & Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 5+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT

If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine in the centre.

DEFIBRILLATOR

Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS

Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

JOBS – TRAINING BOARD

We have a Jobs Board here at the Centre, feel free to call in and take a look, we also offer help and support with CV’s and cover letters if required. For further information please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm

HISTORY WALK

There will be a history walk and talk in Glengoole village with Willie Nolan on Saturday 24th August at 11am.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo continues this Saturday evening at the earlier time of 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. A sincere thanks to the massive support for the August weekend special bingo.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to the last weekends winner of Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of August the senior, juvenile, camogie and ladies football club are sharing Split the Pot. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. If anyone wants to enter the number to Revolut this week is 086 8789711. Your support would be appreciated.

GAMBLING THERAPY AND SUPPORT SERVICE

Millennium Family Resource Centre Glengoole. A confidential counselling service for those affected by problem gambling. Now offering online counselling sessions. For further information contact us on 052 9157992.

SIXWEEK HISTORY WALK AND TALK PROGRAM

Suil Eile and Slieveardagh Rural Development are doing a 6 week History walk and talk program. Register for free at http://www.suileile.com/register. Different locations each week including Ballynonty, Kilcooley, Killenaule, Copper Steeple and The Commons.

GERALDINE HANRAHAN RIP

The death has occured of Geraldine Hanrahan, Aubrey Rd. Glengoole, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, August 7th, peacefully at Tipperary University Hospital, Clonmel surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her parents Bridget and Michael and her brothers Michael and George. Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her family, sons Paul, Shane, Stuart and Keith, daughters-in-law Jessica, Christina and Celia, grandchildren Emily, Saoirse, Donnacha and James, sisters Breda and Margaret, niece, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Geraldine reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home, Urlingford,last Friday evening, followed by removal to the Church of St. Patrick and St. Oliver, Glengoole. Requiem Mass took place last Saturday morning followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery. May she rest in peace.

KILMANAGH

GOLF CLASSIC

Mount Carmel Supported Care Home Annual Golf Classic on Friday 30th & Saturday 31st August 2024. Team Entry Fee €100. For Tee Times contact John Healy on 086 166 4256 or Margaret Maher on 087 960 6440. We are appealing to your generosity for this very worthy fundraiser which you have so kindly supported in the past. Your Sponsorship can be given in any of the following ways; 1. Monetary Donation or 2. Donation of prizes for the Golf Classic. Bank Account Details:

IBAN: IE53AIBK93309014719192: BIC: AIBKIE2D

COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS

Community First Responders are seeking for Volunteers working and/or living in Callan or surrounding area of 5km. The team would love to hear from any volunteers who would be interested in becoming a CFR. Full driving licence is required. For more information, www.volunteerkilkenny.ie.

MOUNT CARMEL DRAW

Another year has flown by and your wonderful promoters are out and about once again to collect for the new year of the Mount Carmel Draw. It costs only €25 for the full year, that is for 12 draws where you have a chance to win €200, €100 and other smaller prizes each draw. The promoters who give tirelessly each year are as follows Callan Post Office, Mount Carmel, Breda Somers, Rachel Murray, Lena Saunders, Marie Maher, Sally Brett, Fergus Keane, Ethel Norman, Joan Camp, Eddie Kennedy, Tom Maher, Denis O Leary, Mona/Joe Lyons, Frank McKenna, Tom O Shea, Breda Butler, Mick Maher (Inver), Margaret Ryan, Veronica Robinson, Caroline Murphy, Mary Clancy, Patty McGuire and Elaine Br yan. You can also join online at www.mountcarmelcallan. ie. If you wish to drop your €25 into Elaine Bryan’s door at any time, please do so. Thank you very much to each and every one of you for your ongoing support.

RIVER RANGERS

On Friday, August 16th, Rangers will present their Under 16 league champions with their winners medals. Also the various Players Of The Years for 2023 and 2024 will receive their awards. Afterwards a quiz and raffle will round off the night. The fun takes place in Ryan’s Pub, Kilmanagh starting at 7.30pm. All are welcome, see you there.

MUSIC DAY

The 2024 Reen Music Day takes place on Sunday August 18 at 2pm at the Scenic View Area in Glengoole, Thurles. Free open air entertainment for all the family. Refreshments and raffle on the day. Musicians welcome.

VOLUNTEER CLEANERS

We always need people willing to clean our churches. There’s not too much work involved, but it does make a huge difference. Contact sacristans or Fr. Liam for details. Thanks to our regular cleaners.

CHURCH OF IRELAND

As part of Heritage Week, St. Aidan’s Church of Ireland in Kilmanagh are holding “An Illustrated Talk on the Stained Glass Windows in St. Aidan’s Church” celebrating the 25th anniversary of the installation of the windows. This event will take place on Sunday, 18th August at 3pm and will include specially composed Harp and Song entertainment, as well as a cheese and wine reception afterwards. All are welcome to attend.

NAOMH AODHAN COMMUNITY CENTRE

The Naomh Aodhán Community Centre in Kilmanagh is available to hire for meetings, social occasions, etc. Contact Naomh Aodhán on 083 3413 024 for details of availability.

BALLYCALLAN COMMUNITY HALL

Ballycallan Community Hall is also available for hire and events. Contact Jimmy Lynch, or any of the committee members for details.

BALLYKEEFFE AMPHITHEATRE

Saturday August 24 - Harvest Moon; Saturday August 31 - Paul Brady. For full details, go to www.ballykeeffeamphitheatre.com.

ATHLETICS CLUB

Whether you run for fun, for fitness or just to have that mental break from the week, you’re always welcome with our local group. Grab your runners and we will see you in Kilmanagh Car Park at 7pm, each Tuesday and Thursday.

PARISH LOTTO

Results for 05/08//24. Numbers drawn were 11; 17; 26; 30. There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners of €50 each were Emmy Millea, Shannon Comerford and Maresa Bourke. Sellers prizes went to Michael Murphy and James O’Connor. Jackpot next week will be €20,000 with reserve jackpot of €8,600. Draw takes place each Monday at 9pm.

KILMANAGH NOTES

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

CONAHY

JOHNNY DOOLEY MEMORIAL RUN

Conahy Vintage Club will hold the “Johnny Dooley Memorial Tractor and Truck Run” in aid of Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre and the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team on Saturday, September 7th. All tractors, trucks and cars are welcome. The Run will commence at 3.00 p.m. from Kilkenny Block Company Ltd., Inchmore, Freshford (R95 R258), with registration available at 1.00 p.m. Please try to support this event in aid of what are extremely worthy causes.

HURLING

The intermediate hurlers had a disappointed defeat to a strong Lisdowney side in their latest game in the Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate League in Castlecomer on Friday night last. The Lisdowney men opened up an early lead, and although Conahy fought back hard in the second half, there was little doubt that Lisdowney were the deserving winners, as they eventually won on a 3-22 to 1-16 score line. Conahy will look to put in a better performance when they are back in action on Saturday week when they play Rower-Inistioge in Gowran at 12.00.

TEAM: Karl Downey, Ciaran Rice, Philip Cass, Liam Cass, Darragh Hennessy, Brian Healy, Donal Brennan, Jack Murphy,

Eoin Cahill, Tom Rice, Tom Phelan, Darragh Dooley, Rob Ring, Kieran Mooney, James Bergin. Subs.: Mark Gunner, Gary Dunne, Eoin Carroll.

The junior E hurlers also bowed out of the JJ Kavanagh and Son Junior E championship on Saturday last when they lost out to their hosts Glenmore. The home side scored a couple of early goals and try as Conahy might, they could not reduce the gap, though they were left to regret a number of missed goal chances. They do deserve huge credit for battling hard to the finish, but Glenmore advanced to the county semi-final on a 2-16 to 0-11 score line.

TEAM: Brian Gallagher, Kieran Delaney, Tom Nolan, Ben Duggan, Kieran Brennan, Michael Bergin, Sean Dunne, Oisin O’Connor, Geoffrey O’Shea, David Kennedy, Declan Buggy, Martin Fitzpatrick, Brooklyn Synott, Paul Kelly, Jake Dooley, Oisin Cahill, Brian Rossiter, Justin Brophy, Paul Buggy, Padraig Conway.

CAMOGIE

Hard luck to Danielle Morrissey, Emma Mulhall, Ellen Gunner and Sofia Kerr who are part of the Kilkenny intermediate team who were narrowly defeated by Cork in the All-Ireland Intermediate Final on Sunday last in Croke Park. Congratulations also go to Rachel Mulhall who captained the Kilkenny Under-14 Development Squads who won the All-Ireland Development Blitz in Dublin on Saturday last. CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 1, 13 and 35. There was no jackpot winner, so the consolation prize winners were Anne Marie Tierney, Kieran and Kathr yn Cuddihy, Mary Tierney, Teresa McEntee and Pauline Doran. The promoter prize winners were Toddy Lacey, Teresa Dollard and Nora Delaney. Many thanks to everyone who supports the GAA Club Lotto.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD

MASS TIMES

Aghaviller Parish Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, and Friday at 9.30.Vigil – Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday 18th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday 17th. at 6.30p.m. Friday 16th. Feast of St. Stephen of Hungary. Saturday 17th. Feast of Our Lady of Knock

CEMETERY MASS

Sheepstown Cemetery Mass on Friday 16th. August at 7.30p.m.

PRAY FOR Joe and Philip Murphy, Lawcus,Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 17th. August at 6.30p.m. Margaret and Joe Walsh, Boolyglass, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 18th. August at 10.00a.m.

ROTA

(20th. Sunday in Ordinary Time) Readers. Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Catherina Roche: Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran.

Eucharistic Ministers. Stoneyford,Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m. Teresa Broderick, Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power New Rota for Stoneyford Church available in Church Sacristy.

SCOIL AIREAGAIL

School is seeking host families for Spanish students who will be joining their school next year. Please contact info@ scoilaireagail.ie or (056) 776 8632 for more details. KILKENNY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

The Kilkenny Bereavement Support Service is a voluntary organisation offering free one to one support to people of all ages who have been bereaved. The service is provided by volunteers who have been trained in bereavement support. This is a free and confidential service. To contact the service please call 086 067 0566.

Website www.kilkennybereavementsupporr.com

RELICS OF SAINT BERNADETTE OF LOURDES

Bishop Niall Coll welcomes the visit of the Relics of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes to the Diocese of Ossory. It is with joy that the Diocese of Ossory will host a visit of the Relics of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes on the weekend of 21st and 22nd September 2024. Saint Bernadette‘s Relics will visit each diocese in the country and some churches belonging to religious orders during the months of September and October 2024. St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, will kindly accommodate the visit of the Relics to Ossory Diocese. This is an initiative to bring a small piece of Lourdes to Ireland and make it possible for more people to experience something of what is close to the heart of Lourdes.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Heritage Week 2024 Event: A Mystery Tour of Carrigeen on Sunday August 25th. Starting point at St. Kevin’s Church, Carrigeen, and Time at 2.00p.m. Tour Guide: Eoin Walsh: All are welcome.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS

Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock

G. A. A. Draw: Monday 5th. August 2024. Numbers: 27; 21; 28; 11. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Sean Dunphy, Monroe; “Young Mac”, c/o James Irish; Kay Walsh, Lawcus; Margaret Walsh, Owning; Kevin Dwan, Lismatigue. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): James Irish. Catherine Duggan. Jimmy Walsh.

Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Final - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR

GlenAll-IrelandDimplex Intermediate Camogie Final

Nelligan nicks it f

Kilkenny 1-10

Cork 1-11

Referee: Brian Kearney (Kildare)

An injury time point from Cork sub Fiona Nelligan saw the Jack McGrath Cup return to Leeside for a fifth time as Kilkenny came up just short against Donie Daly’s side. This year’s Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Final was always going to be a close affair and the clash in Croke Park lived up to its billing. Both majors were scored in the second half, and each gave the scoring team the advantage, but in the end, it would be Cork that just about got over the line at headquarters in the second of the triple bill.

Seamus Kelly’s Kilkenny side were appearing in their fifth decider at this grade and hoping to make it a third win, but his charges started a little nervously, hitting three wide’s in quick succession. A difficult to judge swirling breeze in Croker saw Danielle Morrissey off target from her first placed ball of the day, while Dicksboro’s Rachel Dowling ‘s radar was unlucky from two attempts. Cork opened the scoring in the decider, thanks to a sweet strike from Ballinora’s Cliona Dooley just outside the ‘D’.

Having missed three early chances, Kilkenny then hit the same number of points without reply. St Bridgid’s Claire Doheny hit a fine brace of scores, while Dicksboro’s Dowling made it third time lucky when she struck over from about 35 metres out to send the Noresiders into a twopoint lead after

Late heartache for Kelly’s kittens as Cork claim crown

eight minutes of the intermediate final. Rachel Whelan then fouled the lively Dooley, and 2-time senior All-Ireland winner Lauren Homan opened her account for the afternoon. The Brian Dillon’s clubwoman doubled her tally from another placed ball, a few minutes later, after she was crudely halted by Clara’s Whelan, who picked up a yellow card for her troubles as the sides were locked on 3 points apiece.

The next score in the final was a combination of battling qualities and execution of skill. Niamh O’Regan outfought her marker tight to the sideline and showed good pace and balance to create an angle to split the Kilkenny posts. The St Catherine’s player followed this effort up with another quality point. That was the

Rebel’s fourth score on the trot as they edged into a 2-point lead. The Stripeywomen needed to respond, and they did just that, thanks to efforts from St Martin’s Carlise Comerford and defensive lynchpin Hannah Scott, as the sides were deadlocked for the 3rd time in the 2024 decider. The accurate Homan then was given the opportunity to add to her tally, when Kildare whistler Brian Kearney appeared to harshly adjudge Mairead Kennedy to have given an illegal handpass. Homan’s latest effort saw her side re take the lead on 23 minutes. Meadhbh Ring then saw her name taken by the referee for a frontal challenge on Carlise Comerford and the Aghabullogue defender’s indiscretion was punished in the

Rachel Whelan on the move

The Winner takes it all - Fiona Nelligan with the Jack McGrath Cup

or Rebels!

the bouncing sliotar that beat the sprawling Cliona Murphy and ended up in the kitten’s net. The Leesiders now had a 3-point lead, which in a game of small margins, appeared big. Once again, Danielle Morrissey hit back for Seamus Kelly’s team, rifling over another placed ball after a Cork defender was blown up for taking a few too many steps. Slieverue’s Caroline Kennedy, who had been on the periphery of things, was then stopped in her tracks illegally and again St Martin’s Morrissey converted the free awarded as the Cork lead was down to the bare minimum with 41 minutes on the clock. The Noresiders then made their first change of the afternoon, with St Brigid’s Kate McCluskey entering the fray in place of James Stephens Aoife Cantwell.

shape of Danielle Morrissey’s first point of the game, six minutes from the interval to level things once more. Cork skipper Homan, then sent over a lovely effort from play just before the short whistle sounded to leave Donie Daly’s side 1-point to the good as the teams headed to the changing rooms.

When play resumed, Kilkenny’s leader, Danielle Morrissey fired over from distance after working a sideline cut short, and taking the return. The first major of the game then came along and it went to the ladies in red. Cliona O’Callaghan collected the sliotar and headed for goal. The Blackrock attacker struck

The influence that Kilkenny captain Morrissey was having on the game was about to go up another notch. Danielle took possession of the ball about ‘65 out in a central position. As usual, her first thought was taking a score and she dispatched a shot towards the Cork posts. Would it have the legs to produce the equalising score?

‘Barrs clubwoman and Cork netminder, Ciara Hurley stood and waited. As she sought to pick out the missile moving through the air, the Croker sun got the better of her and the sliotar slipped from her grasp and nestled in the net. Small margins, Kilkenny now led by 2 points at the midway point of the second half.

Cork’s Homan then tagged on another free to once again make it a 1-point game and that signaled a second roll of the dice from Seamus Kelly, who sent on Niamh Crowley for Rose Kelly. Claire Doheny then fired over her second point of the final to restore the Noresiders twopoint lead. Cria Langton was then sprung from the bench, replacing the tiring Rachel Dowling as the Kilkenny management sought to employ fresh legs to see their side home. The next score was certainly a momentum shifter. Cork were awarded a free, close to the Hogan Stand sideline almost in line with posts. Up stepped their captain, Lauren Homan. The Brian Dillon’s player went through her normal

beautifully between the Kilkenny posts. The Cork supporters were on their feet, saluting their leaders latest score. Her sixth and no doubt her sweetest. Less than four minutes of normal time remaining, The Marble City ladies lead down to just one point.

Both sides knew that time was running out, could those in black and amber hold on or could the Rebels find an equalising score? Cork attacked, the Kilkenny defence managed to turnover and secure the ball, but referee Kearney halted proceedings to allow treatment to an injured player in red. The game restarted with the man in charge throwing the ball in. Cork picked up possession and Cliona O’Callaghan popped over the levelling score. Three minutes of additional time were announced over the Croker PA system. Could either side conjure up a winner? Again, the Rebels attacked, but it looked to most that Kilkenny had repelled the late surge. The ball was loose, down at the corner of the pitch, where the Davin meets the Hogan. Niamh Leahy came across and collected possession as the Cork pressure was about to be applied. The Emerald’s player struck her clearance, but unfortunately for her it went across the pitch and to the unmarked Fiona Nelligan. The Charleville livewire flicked the sliotar onto her hurl and struck it over the bar. There was to be no more scoring, The long whistle sounded. Cork were Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie champions 2024. Final score, Cork 1-11, Kilkenny 1-10.

Kilkenny: C Murphy, N Leahy, R Whelan, J Cass, M Kennedy, S Treacy, H Scott 0-1, D Morrissey 1-4 (0-3fs), L Ronan; C Comerford 0-1, R Dowling 0-1, A Cantwell, R Kelly, C Kennedy, C Doheny 0-3.

Subs: K McCluskey for Cantwell (43), N Crowley for Kelly (50), C Langton for Dowling (55)

Cork: C Hurley; A Barrett, N O’Leary, E Flanagan, L Doyle, O McAllen, M Ring, L Buttimer, A Cashman, E Sheehan, L Homan 0-6 (5fs), T McCarthy, C O’Callaghan 1-1, C Dooley 0-1, N O’Regan 0-2.

Subs: L Allen for Buttimer (39) E Duignan for Sheehan (45), F Nelligan 0-1 for O’Regan (52), E Curtin for Dooley (56), K Walsh for Cashman (60)

Referee: Brian Kearney (Kildare)

Mairead Kennedy breaking out of defence

Rachel Dowling takes point

Cork captain Lauren Homan lifts the cup

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Edward Kennedy intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain pillars & open porch to front of existing dwelling, front entrance walls/railings and entrance gates along the front boundary of the site and all associated site development works at Joinersfolly, Danville, Kilkenny R95 X5K3. 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.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. 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. M.C.W.

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.B..

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. P.M.C.