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Wind turbines, action! Hollywood moguls join opposition to development at Inistioge A coalition of international filmmakers, Hollywood location experts and local conservationists have united to oppose the proposed Curraghmore Renewables industrial wind development on Mount Alto, warning that the 175-metre-tall structures pose an unmitigable threat to South Kilkenny’s multimillion-euro cinematic and

tourism economy. The proposed project, backed by Empower, seeks to install eight utility-scale wind turbines on the untouched rural skyline directly overlooking Inistioge. The scenic Nore Valley village is globally renowned as the authentic, period-accurate setting for major international movies. Oscar-nominated director

Jim Sheridan warned: “If you can see the wind turbines from the village, it would damage it as a film location. It just has that quality of being a beautiful location... it’s just got a reality. It’s a beautiful town and the people are really nice there.” Prominent film location expert Gary Callaghan expanded on the technical and

financial hurdles the moving infrastructure introduces for international production houses: “It is amazing what filmmakers can’t get around when trying to remove items from a scene using digital effects. “Painting out is fine if it’s not moving, but if wind turbines are moving, that could be a real problem.”

While emphasising that he is firmly in favour of green energy, Callaghan stated that if the development went ahead, it would be “disappointing on many levels, not just for filming but for the aesthetic of a village like that. I think it can all coexist, maintaining character in towns and villages, and being progressive with renewable energies.”

Women lose out on breast scan

Cycling safety for Kilkenny pupils

More than 51,000 women are waiting longer than the two-year target for a repeat BreastCheck screening invitation amid concerns about staffing shortages and growing demand. BreastCheck is Ireland’s free breast-screening programme for women aged 50 to 69 who do not have symptoms of breast cancer. Figures provided in a parliamentary response to Cork North Central Fianna Fáil TD Padraig O’Sullivan outlined the pressures facing the service. See also Page 6

Schools in Kilkenny are among the latest to join the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme, announced by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, together with Ministers of State Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer and the National Transport Authority (NTA). Round 5 will bring a further 83 schools into the programme, with schools from every county in Ireland represented. This will bring the total number of participating schools to 609, meaning almost two-thirds of the 932 schools that originally applied are now being actively supported in creating safer and more attractive conditions for children and families walking, wheeling and cycling to school.

Kilkenny houses rise by 20%

Special Report Page 14

Family drugs debt link to murders Detectives are probing whether a criminal “enforcer” was contracted by a local drugs gang to carry out the arson attack in Waterford that killed four members of an innocent family. Armed Gardaí carried out several searches hours after the murder, including at the home of a violent criminal who is suspected of carrying out previous firebombings.

Philip and Kim English (pictured), as well as their sons Callum (12) and Jayden (9), were killed when their house in the Birchwood estate was targeted with a suspected petrol bomb shortly after 5am on Tuesday. Their two other children were critically injured. Detectives are treating the attack as murder and, while they are satisfied the victims

Patrick Croke, chairperson of the local action group Protect Inistioge’s Environment (PIE), highlighted that the sheer mass of the infrastructure contradicts the core values of the region. He heavily underscored recent Government planning frameworks that extol a “sense of place” as key to proper regional development.

were all completely innocent, they believe it was an act of drug-related intimidation. John James English, a son of Philip English from his first marriage, said the house was targeted because of someone else’s drug debt of €20,000. “My family are dead at the end of the day, you know what I mean?” he said. “Twenty grand worth of a debt... is that worth their lives?”

Property prices in Kilkenny have risen by €20,000 in the last year, according to the latest MyHome Property Price Report. The report for Q3 2026, in association with Bank of Ireland, shows that the median asking price for a property in the county is now €275,000. That means prices have remained flat over the quarter.

Conahy school — €4k bursary The Arts Council has announced that 156 schools and Youthreach centres across Ireland have joined its Creative Schools programme, with awards totalling €664,000. As part of this, Conahy National School in Kilkenny has been awarded a total of €4,000.

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News There’s no feeling in the world like cuddling up at night with your pooch, even when we think they’re messing up our sleep by hogging space, stealing covers and yapping at random sounds. A surprising new study found that people who sleep near their dogs don’t experience disrupted sleep. If anything, the University of Toronto researchers discovered, we humans are the ones disturbing our dogs’ sleep. And we feel safer sleeping with our dogs, hinting at “a deeper evolutionary history” between humans and dogs, said study co-author Ming Fei Li, who was a graduate student of evolutionary anthropology during the research. Activity trackers similar to Fitbits monitored the nighttime activity of 25 human volunteers and their 38 dogs in southern Ontario to monitor how each affected the other’s sleep. The study, which was published in PLOS One, was conducted during the Covid pandemic as part of a larger project comparing the activity patterns of socialised wolves and domestic dogs. For four weeks, the humans wore the devices on their wrists while the dogs, all huskies and malamutes with no health problems, wore them on their collars. Using the activity trackers, they analysed “objec-

Why you should bring your dog to bed

tive sleep measures” of the people and their dogs, including sleep duration and sleep quality, co-lead author Lavania Nagendran said. The human volunteers also self-reported their sleep quality in an accompanying survey. Though half of the people, particularly those who slept

with more than one dog at a time, reported interrupted sleep, the activity tracker data found that sharing a bed with their dogs didn’t affect how well or how long the pups or their humans slept. The researchers also found it made no difference whether people’s dogs slept directly in the bed with them

or in a nearby area. There were limitations to the study, including the small group of volunteers, which consisted of more women than men, and a lack of variation in dog breeds, Li said. Previous research on cosleeping with a dog has shown a link between poorer

sleep and owning a pet and found that people sleep well with a dog nearby, but not in the bed. Dogs may actually improve our sleep habits by forcing us to adjust to consistent bedtime schedules — as anyone with a sleepy, whining dog can confirm. Dogs are “zeitgebers”; that

is, they provide cues about when it’s time to eat, take a walk or go to sleep, said W. Christopher Winter, a sleep medicine expert. Most sleep research shows that “creating internal consistency” around sleep habits may matter more than the amount of sleep a person gets, he said.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

News

Kilkenny food wins big at Blas Kilkenny companies Sofina and Tirlán received a total of four awards at this year’s Blas na hÉireann Awards held in Dingle last weekend. The two companies are among 33 Irish suppliers whose products secured 86 awards at the 2026 Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards, further demonstrating the strength and quality of Ireland’s food and drink indus-

try. • Sofina won Gold for their Tesco Finest Pork T Bone Steaks 590g, and Silver for their Tesco Unsmoked Maple Cured Gammon Joint 1.5– 2.5kg and Tesco Finest Pork Shoulder Joint 1.8kg. • Tirlán won Bronze for their Tesco Butter Salted 227g. Now in their 19th year, the Blas na hÉireann Awards are Ireland’s largest celebration

of Irish food and drink, recognising the producers, growers and manufacturers creating some of the country’s bestloved products. Overall, Irish suppliers producing own-label products for Tesco took home 29 gold, 30 silver and 24 bronze medals, alongside three Chef’s Larder Awards. The results reinforce the strong connection between inde-

pendent quality recognition and consumer demand, while making Tesco Ireland the most awarded retailer at the awards for the third consecutive year. Tesco Ireland Commercial Director Joe Manning said: “The success of these awards belongs to the talented Irish suppliers who produce exceptional food and drink day in, day out. What is particu-

Cost to economy of the public sector strikes could hit up to €500 million The cost to the economy of the public sector strikes last Wednesday — and next week — could hit up to €500m, with more disadvantaged households set to be affected most by the largest industrial action since the global financial crash. Between 300,000 and 400,000 public servants withdrew their labour for 24 hours nationwide and will also do so on Wednesday, October 21, unless the Government and unions come together to agree terms on a new public sector pay deal. The industrial action caused huge disruption nationally and closures to several public services, with those taking part including doctors, nurses, special needs assistants (SNAs), teachers and various civil servants. Economist Austin Hughes estimated that the proposed two-day public sector strike could cost the economy between €300m and €500m, based on various hits to direct and indirect activity. Mr Hughes, the former chief economist at KBC Bank Ireland, said the direct activity related to the loss of work that would otherwise have been done by public servants. Some of this work can be deferred to other days, but a lot will be permanently lost due to the strike action. The indirect economic costs of the strikes mostly related to the private sector, with this area of economic output also set to be negatively influenced by industrial action. This could affect businesses large and small, as some employees may be forced to take days off or disrupt their

usual work plans as they care for children who otherwise would have been in school. For smaller businesses, this could even lead to closing for the day due to a lack of staff. “There are just over 500,000 kids in primary school,” Mr Hughes said. “There are a significant number of those who will require a day’s caring, meaning people taking leave or disrupting their working day.” Mr Hughes said he was not taking a position on the merits, or otherwise, of the strikes, and was commenting solely on their potential economic impact. He said the figures were speculative. There could also be longer-lasting spillover effects for the economy from the strikes, Mr Hughes said. “One of the selling points for the Irish economy globally is political stability, social harmony, no strikes, that sort of thing,” he said. “This is also signalling to people that, perhaps, that is no longer a given. That is an issue.” Mr Hughes said the costs of the strikes would be felt most by those in more disadvantaged households. “If you think about both the disruption to hospitals and education, the impact there falls unevenly across the income distribution,” he said. “The people who are going to suffer are the ones who are not going to a private hospital tomorrow or whose kids are probably most in need of engagement with education. “The broader socio-economic costs are materially greater than what you would write down as the direct, mechanical costs.”

larly encouraging is seeing customers actively seek out award-winning products, with last year’s winners delivering increased sales growth after receiving Blas recognition. “Awards like Blas na hÉireann give shoppers confidence that they are choosing products recognised for their quality and taste, while also helping suppliers grow their

businesses.” Tesco Ireland works with more than 500 Irish suppliers, providing a route to market for some of Ireland’s most innovative food and drink producers. The retailer is the world’s single largest retail buyer of Irish food and drink and remains committed to helping Irish suppliers grow their businesses at home and abroad.

Move over Amazon...

Thirty years ago, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou launched easyJet to challenge the established airlines. Now, the founder of the easy family of brands is taking the same challenger philosophy into online shopping with easyShop.com, a new multi-category marketplace set to rival Amazon, now officially open in Ireland and across 20 other European countries. The launch takes the easy brand into one of the world’s largest consumer markets with a proposition built around value, simplicity and rewards

for shoppers, together with a marketplace model designed to give retailers a fairer environment in which to grow. Unlike retail-led marketplaces, easyShop does not hold stock, sell own-label products or compete with the businesses using its platform. Every product belongs to a retailer, and every customer order generates a sale for a retailer. Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the easy family of brands, said: “Competition is good for consumers and it’s good for businesses. No market benefits

when everyone feels they have only one place to go. “easyShop brings together the values the easy brand has always stood for: simplicity, value and choice, with a marketplace model that’s designed to help retailers grow rather than compete against them. I believe there is plenty of room for a fresh approach to online shopping.” Retailers can reach shoppers in their choice of 21 markets through one account, with VAT calculated automatically. They do not need to establish a

company in every country, which opens international expansion to businesses that may previously have found the cost and complexity of local operations a barrier. Hundreds of retailers are already trading on easyShop following a phased rollout of its local sites. With Black Friday and Christmas approaching, the marketplace is now inviting more Irish, UK, European and international sellers to join, expand their reach and capitalise on the busiest trading period of the year.

We’re in fast-tech mode with electronic gadgets Kilkenny consumers are fuelling a growing ‘fast tech’ trend with small, often low-cost electronic gadgets frequently discarded after very little use, a new survey conducted for the recent International E-waste Day reveals. In the 12 months to July of this year, almost half of Irish people (44%) discarded a fast tech item unused, after a single use or within a month. Fast tech includes mini-

fans, festive lights and decorations, wireless headphones and speakers, power banks and chargers, and electronic toys usually bought on impulse or as a novelty. Nearly two-thirds (64%) said the shortest time they used an item before discarding it was six months or less. A third had thrown at least one item in a bin and a quarter kept them at home, with fewer than half using a

recycling centre. The findings form part of an online consumer survey carried out for International E-waste Day across 12 European countries, with 1,003 respondents from Ireland. Conducted by Bellegarde Scientific Consulting for the WEEE Forum, with participation from Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Ireland, it showed the number of people buying fast tech in Ireland over the

past 12 months was higher than the average across the 12 countries surveyed – 9 in 10 versus 8 in 10. Separate research by WEEE Ireland shows that fast tech purchases here last year reached 91 million items, with Kilkenny consumers recycling 9.2kg of electrical waste per person – just short of the 9.63kg average in the counties covered by Ireland’s largest e-waste recycling scheme.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Why that life deserved to have a better death Esther Rantzen should have been a politician. In fact, the woman, who produced and presented BBC show That’s Life! for 21 years and who has died at the age of 86, was a politician if we agree a politician’s work is to solve or address relevant and problematic social issues, guided by a conception of doing the right thing. Britain’s Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the veteran broadcaster and campaigner had “changed countless lives”. That’s Life! regularly attracted 20 million viewers for its mixture of in-depth consumer investigations and light-hearted banter. It was hugely popular in Ireland. In 1986 Rantzen launched Childline, a counselling service for children and young people, and in 2013 she launched Silverline to help elderly people suffering from isolation and loneliness. Ireland would follow suit

with similar organisations. Later, Rantzen became a prominent campaigner for the legalisation of euthanasia or assisted dying. She had been terminally ill with lung cancer. In December 2023, she revealed she had joined Dignitas, the Swiss assisted dying clinic. But in a statement given to the Press Association just last month, she said that, despite having “spent the money and made the plans” to go to Dignitas, she had since reached the point where she was “too physically fragile to make the journey”. She said the law in the UK must “change and change quickly”, as she renewed her plea ahead of Britain’s latest debate and vote on the Terminally Ill Adults/End Of Life Bill. At the height of its powers, in the 1990s, That’s Life! received 15,000 letters a week, letters overwhelmingly addressed directly to Rantzen. What many of the letter writers wouldn’t have been aware of was quite

how embattled their hero and saviour was within the corporation she so roundly represented, with the BBC’s increasing disquiet over their then biggest star’s advocacy for euthanasia. The passing of Esther Rantzen has raised once more the issue of assisted dying. Our Oireachtas set up a committee of TDs and senators under the Chairmanship of Michael Healy-Rae to consider the issue of assisted dying. That was back in 2024. There has been little update since. The Joint Committee on Assisted Dying had been asked to examine four aspects. First, how assisted dying might work in Ireland; second, the safeguards; third, the “constitutional, legal and ethical” issues; and, fourth, “possible unintended consequences”. In countries with provisions for ‘medical’ assisted dying, patients are examined by two doctors to see that specific criteria are met. Those criteria

include terminal illness and in some cases a prognosis of limited life expectancy. Those examinations also include the doctors’ opinion that the patient is competent to make a legal decision (‘of sound mind’), that the decision to apply is free and not coerced and that the implications are understood. This is broadly the situation in most countries. However,

“She had joined Dignitas, the Swiss assisted dying clinic..

there is a view that normal life events like dying should not be ‘medicalised’. Individuals should be free to determine that their life or suffering is intolerable and with no reasonable prospect of relief and so be able to end their lives within the provisions of the law. The argument is that only the individual can determine whether their life is intolerable and no one else has the right to do so. This is not the actual practice anywhere except in The Netherlands and Belgium, and even then there are other strict conditions that must be met. Given the high regard in which doctors here are held and their generally close relationship with patients and their families, it would make sense for Ireland to adopt that ‘medical’ model used in most jurisdictions. Irish Doctors Supporting Medical Assistance in Dying (iDMAiD) are a small but growing group of doctors who

support choices for people at the end of their lives. They have a strong belief in individual patient autonomy; that a person approaching the end of their life should be “provided with accessible, highquality and evidence-based care to minimise suffering and support their wishes”. Every citizen, they argue, should be able to access their choice of medical care, including palliative care and medical assistance in dying. Their spokesperson tells me: “We will advocate for the introduction of MAiD in Ireland, through public advocacy and workshops with doctors. We want to deliver safe, regulated and high-quality care to our patients, including Assisted Dying. We are committed to developing the educational and professional standards to make this happen.” As I see it, forcing someone to spend their last months in a painful, undignified limbo is cruel.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny

Main: Padraig Fox, General Manager, Open Gate Brewery Right: Steve Gilsenan, Master Brewer and Technical Manager, Beer Operations

Talks, tours, live music and more as Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny prepares for Savour 2026

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny has something for everyone this October Bank Holiday weekend as a series of events gets underway, all tailored to appeal to locals and visitors alike gathering for the long-awaited Savour Kilkenny festival of food. As part of its sponsorship commitment to Savour Kilkenny Food Festival 2026, Smithwick’s has developed a unique listing of events that support the festival programme, while also highlighting the unique offering at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny throughout the year. On Friday evening, October 23, adults with an interest in history, brewing and heritage really won’t want to miss An Evening of Smithwick's Stories, Beer & Brewing. The event is a rare opportunity to meet two of Ireland's most respected beer experts, Steve Gilsenan, Master Brewer and Technical Manager, Beer Operations, and Pádraig Fox, Guinness Global Brand Ambassador, and hear the stories behind the beers that have shaped Ireland's brewing heritage. It promises to be a unique evening of beer tasting, brewing insights, behind-the-scenes stories, and plenty of laughs from their years in the Irish brewing industry. Participants will enjoy a guided tasting of specially selected Smithwick's ales, including a limited-edition beer brewed exclusively for this event, perfectly paired with a freshly baked artisan pretzel. Limited tickets are available on the Smithwick’s Experience website. Then on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th October, the Smithwick’s Bar will be open at the Savour Kilkenny Brewers and Distillers Marque in the shadow of Kilkenny Castle. Visitors will have the opportunity to chat with the team and enjoy a selection of Smithwick's ales, alongside exclusive beers from the Guinness Open Gate Brewery. While part of the Smithwick’s team will be meeting, greeting, and serving on the parade, others will be busy back at

base with a not-to-be-missed Masters of Ale tour. The premium Masters of Ale is the final tour on both Friday and Saturday evenings at 5.20pm and another must for those interested in the science, history, and culture behind brewing. Bookings can be made on Masters of Ale Tour - Savour Kilkenny Music lovers too will revel in the special Barrel Yard Sessions, the perfect place to unwind and meet with friends after a day out at Savour in the city. On Saturday, 24th October, the Bad Moon Blues Band will perform from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. The four-piece blues and rock powerhouse will deliver high-energy performances, classic riffs, and a dynamic live show that is guaranteed to get the crowd going. The free, live sessions in the cosy and enclosed Barrel Yard continue Sunday, 25th October with Bench Warrant on stage, again from 5:00pm. The high-energy blues experience performs an eclectic mix of favourites, from Steve Earle to Talking Heads, along with a few musical surprises along the way. Expect an evening of exceptional musicianship and unforgettable entertainment, all in the iconic city centre venue. Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny Manager, Ignacio Peregrina, said they’re proud to support Savour for 2026 and have come up with an events schedule they hope will appeal to everyone. “Smithwick’s has a proud history of supporting festivals in Kilkenny and is delighted to play a leading role in promoting the city’s rich food and brewing heritage throughout Savour. “The tradition of brewing has been at the heart of Kilkenny’s vibrant food and drink scene for centuries. We look forward to hosting guests for the Smithwick's Stories, Beer & Brewing event, our traditional and Masters of Ale tours and the Barrel Yard sessions. It’s always fantastic to also meet with the public in person in the Brewers & Distillers Marquee. It’s going to be a fantastic weekend and we can’t wait for it all,” Ignacio said. • To find out more about events at the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny, log on https:// www.smithwicksexperience.com/barrel-yard

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

News

Cancer 'delay' puts lives at risk Cancer campaigners have expressed alarm as the number of patients waiting between 12 and 18 months for endoscopic procedures has increased by over 800% since 2024. The Irish Cancer Society (ICS) has warned that delays with critical assessments put

patient lives at risk. Under HSE guidelines, colonoscopies that are deemed urgent should be conducted within a 28-day period. However, according to new National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) data, there has been a 50% rise in urgent colonoscopy breaches this

year compared with last year. That is despite the fact that last year's figure for breaches was 84% worse than the 2024 performance. In December 2024, Ireland had 345 patients waiting between 12 and 18 months for an endoscopic assessment. However, that number had

soared to 3,158 in August – an increase of 815% in less than two years. The number of patients waiting more than 18 months for an endoscopic procedure shot up from 124 in December 2024 to 582 last month (an increase of 370%). Ireland had 23,332 patients

waiting for up to six months in December 2024. That number soared to 30,509 last month. There were 1,942 patients waiting between six months and a year for an endoscopic procedure in December 2024, but that jumped to 8,478 last month (an increase of 337%). One consultant warned that

delays with such diagnostic procedures were very serious. “Delays in diagnosis and treatment increases the risk of worsening of outcomes for cancer patients in particular,” they said. “There can be very, very serious consequences from such delays in assessments.”

Kilkenny firm milks it at national awards Kilkenny-based agricultural technology company Udder Logic & ADF Milking Systems achieved a historic clean sweep at the prestigious FBD National Dairy Show Innovation Awards 2026 held last week in Millstreet, Co. Cork. Led by CEO Colin Barry (pictured with colleagues), the company captured three major accolades, highlighting its status as one of the country's most exciting new AgTech pioneers. Udder Logic took home the Engineering Innovation Award 2026, the Best New Start-Up Innovation Award 2026, and ultimately secured the premier title of the night: the Overall Innovation Award 2026. The highly competitive awards celebrate new products and services launched within the last 12 months that make a tangible, positive impact on Irish dairy farms. Udder Logic & ADF Milking Systems wowed the expert judging panel with its groundbreaking Automatic Dipping and Flushing System, designed to drastically improve efficiency, hygiene and labour requirements in the milking

parlour. Colin Barry expressed his pride in bringing these national titles back to Kilkenny: "Winning one national award is a massive honour, but taking home three — including the Overall Innovation title — is an in-

credible validation of our hard work. "To have the industry recognise our technology on this national stage in Millstreet is a testament to the talent and dedication of our entire Kilkenny-based team."

One last search for aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart In the shallow waters of a remote Pacific island lies an object about the size and shape of a small plane. From blurry satellite images, it is possible to trace the faint outline of the possible fuselage and tail lodged in the white sand of Nikumaroro, a tiny atoll 4,800km north-east of Sydney, Australia. Some say it is but a few dead trees. Others – including a group of researchers due to arrive this weekend – argue that it could be the final resting place of Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator who was the first woman to make a non-stop solo flight across the Atlantic. On July 2, 1937, she disappeared over the Pacific Ocean while attempting to become the first female pilot to circumnavigate the globe. “Finding Amelia Earhart's [Lockheed] Electra aircraft

would be the discovery of a lifetime,” Richard Pettigrew, the mission's chief, said. “This would be solving one of the great mysteries in aviation history, certainly one of the great mysteries of the 20th century,” Steve Schultz, an expedition member and senior vice-president and general counsel at Purdue University, added. The mystery of what happened to Earhart has captivated historians and conspiracy theorists for nearly 90 years. Researchers from the USbased Archaeological Legacy Institute (ALI) and Purdue are leading a $900,000 expedition to Nikumaroro, part of the island nation of Kiribati, to investigate what has been called the "Taraia Object”. The team is investigating the theory that Earhart and Fred Noonan, her navigator, failed to reach their intended destination of Howland

Island but instead flew south and landed on Nikumaroro's reef at low tide, eventually dying as castaways. Images of the 'Taraia Object' show what appears to be the remnant of an aircraft sitting in shallow waters. If the object were identified as Earhart's aircraft, it could bring researchers closer to understanding the pair's final hours and even discovering the remains of the aviator herself. The disappearance has spawned numerous alternative theories, including that Earhart and Noonan flew north to Saipan, then under Japanese control, where they were allegedly captured and executed as American spies. Another theory, later debunked, claimed Earhart survived and returned to the US under an assumed identity to live her life in privacy.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

The science of forecasting – it’s complicated If there is one thing we like to grumble about — politicians aside — it’s the weather. Too much rain or too little, rain and wind that fail to live up to their yellow, orange or red warnings or surpass them, there’s no end to it, especially recently with more extreme weather events. And forecasters come in for stick too for not getting it right, or right in our own particular locality. After an evening listening to two experts recently, I have got a lot more respect for what is actually involved in the science of forecasting. “Before you can forecast you need to know what is happening with the weather everywhere in the world,” says Evelyn Cusack, the face of Irish weather for Met Éireann’s forecasts for TV and radio for 30 years and later head of their forecasting division. At the start of her career in the 1980s, the tools of the trade were pencils and handdrawn charts, and weather

(the state of our atmosphere) was forecast for just a day ahead. Now the science of meteorology has got a bit more complicated, with observations from weather satellites as game changers and computers capable of making trillions of calculations per second to interpret all the information as meteorological models in mathematical language. This information comes from more than 10,000

weather stations on land around the world and different sources from ships to rainfall radars. Weather models are based on thousands of divisions of the atmosphere into cubes around the world, with forecasts for rain, wind and temperature for now three to 15 days ahead, depending on whether it’s a local or a global model. Then it’s up to the human element, with

Footpath improvements on Barracks Street, Castle comer Local Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick has welcomed the commencement of footpath improvement works on Barracks Street on Castle comer. Cllr Fitzpatrick said the works represent an important investment and will most importantly, enhance safety for pedestrians and other road users. I am pleased to see these important improvements being carried out on Barracks Street in Castle comer. Highquality footpaths are essential to ensuring the safety and accessibility for all especially pedestrians, older people, parents with children and people with mobility difficulties. “Safety must remain a priority in the maintenance and development of our local Towns and Villages Residents should be able to walk safely and confidently through their town without having to navigate damaged or uneven surfaces. “These works will make a difference to pedestrians using Barracks Street and will improve

accessibility and safety in the area. I want acknowledge the work of area engineer and his team involved in delivering these improvements and will continue to raise issues relating to footpaths, roads and pedestrian safety throughout Castle comer and the surrounding areas. “Investment in local infrastructure is essential, and the provision and maintenance of safe, accessible footpaths must remain a priority for our communities concluded Cllr Fitzpatrick.

forecasters using their local knowledge, experience and atmospheric physics to communicate what is likely to happen, which is now available on handy apps on our phones. “It helps if we look out of the window though,” laughs Evelyn. We do the same and interpret the signs we see, sometimes with folklore, but how reliable are these traditions? Evelyn and her colleague Seamus Walsh, who went on from forecasting to research and then as head of Climate Observations for Met Éireann, dismiss some beliefs. How about the one where loads of berries in the autumn are meant to predict a hard winter? Wrong, plentiful berries are due to plants having a favourable spring. The one about swallows flying high being a sign of good weather is true. In good weather, warm air rises and so do the flies, with swallows in

pursuit. Back to the future: what about the effect of the super El Niño on Ireland? We will have a warmer, wetter winter, predicts Evelyn, while Seamus comments that there will be more energy around to create storms. The colleagues have co-authored a fascinating book, They Say It Might Rain, on the highs and lows of Ireland’s weather and climate. The concept of climate change can be hard to grasp, but a graph in their book shows how Ireland’s annual temperature from 1900 to 2024 differs from the 1961 to 1990 long-term average. The graph reads from 1900 on the left, with cooler years shown in blue stripes and hotter ones in red. Nearly all the blue stripes are on the left, and the red — getting taller and taller, especially since 2000 — are on the right. It’s dramatic and scary, illustrating how our own climate is part of the bigger picture

of global warming due to the increase in greenhouse gases, especially from burning fossil fuels. Our atmosphere is a protective skin, as thin as the skin of an apple is to the rest of the fruit, and we are damaging it with our behaviour. The troposphere, the lowest layer of atmosphere where weather occurs above us in Ireland, is just 10km deep. The average annual carbon footprint per individual is 10.2 tonnes of CO2, the second highest in the EU and 51% more than the EU average. There are plenty of things we can do individually, from using public transport to installing solar panels, to avoid reaching a tipping point where changes, like the loss of the North Atlantic current making Ireland much colder, become irreversible. Forecasters predict what happens to our climate, but we are all contributing to its future.

Intimate dryness and the effect it has on your life Fabü has you covered We talk a lot about symptoms of perimenopause and CLAIR menopause but we WHITTY seldom talk about vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy. Because it’s such an intimate issue many women suffer in silence, but thankfully, we are hearing more women talk about it in store. During perimenopause, our levels of estrogen begin to decline. Estrogen is the hormone responsible for keeping the tissues of the vagina healthy, elastic, well-lubricated, and thick. As estrogen levels drop, these delicate tissues become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This condition is known medically as vaginal atrophy and can have a massive impact on your intimate life. When vaginal tissues are thin and dry, sexual intercourse can become uncomfortable or even very painful. Naturally, if intimacy hurts, you will start to dread it. This can lead to a vicious cycle. You might start avoiding physical contact They are easy to use; you simply insert one altogether, fearing it will lead to sex. Your partovule per night for seven nights. After that, to ner may feel rejected, unattractive, or pushed maintain the effect, you use them every two to away. three nights. In my experience the dryness was something Fabü Hello Healing Ovules are designed to that I was constantly aware of. It kind of hurts nourish and support vaginal wellness from the your brain too, if that makes sense. It’s hard inside out. They restore pH balance, comfort, to explain. I say was, because I recently found and can be used by any of you who experience Fabü Hello Healing Vaginal Ovules. They sat on vaginal dryness. This could be perimenopause, the shelves of the shop for a long time before post menopause, after cancer treatment, or after I decided to try them. And, to be honest, they having a baby. Basically, anytime you experiare a game changer. I feel feminine again, that’s ence vaginal dryness take a look at with Fabü probably a strange thing to say. But, almost Hello Healing Vaginal Ovules. I am so happy to immediately after the first week of using them have found them, I feel alive for the first time in it was as if a switch had been turned on. I felt a long time, and they could have saved a marfeminine, human, awake, and normal again. If riage! Maybe you will like them too? you try them, you will know what I mean. Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 | Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Entrepreneur’s sister also moved from Dublin to Kilkenny for a better work/life balance Karina Cahill moved to Kilkenny from Lucan in Dublin over 15 years ago and her experience of living, working and raising a family has spurred her sister and family to also make Kilkenny their new home. “I moved here in 2010 and met my husband here. I started out in the city and we moved to just outside Callan after that to raise our family. I absolutely adore Kilkenny. I don’t think I’d ever move anywhere else. “I love getting abroad for a holiday but there’s nowhere like the sunny south east,” she said in the run-up to free, ‘Live Work, Visit, Invest Kilkenny’ showcase at St Canice’s Cathedral on Saturday, November 7. “Kilkenny has everything, whether you’re a single person or married with a family. The infrastructure if fabulous. The kids can get the bus to school. We’re rural but we’re not rural at the same time, we’re only down the road. “The amenities in Kilkenny are fabulous, whether it be the cinema, going for a stroll in the Castle Park or whatever interests you have.

Karina Cahill

There’s so much to do, so much so that my sister and her husband moved down here two years ago from city centre Dublin. They would say the same, they’ve never looked back. “As well as running my own business, Melt Your Day Away, I’m also Vice President of Network Ireland in Kilkenny and will be President come the end of this year. It has been absolutely fabulous. Kilkenny people are so welcoming, it has been amazing. Because I’m a small business, I need to connect and network lots. I couldn’t commend Kilkenny enough as a place to live, work and raise a family.” From her home in Callan, Co Kilkenny, Karina has grown her own business, Melt Your Day Away https:// meltyourdayaway.com into a family-run enterprise. The Irish wellbeing and home fragrance brand also stocks a growing range of carefully selected Irish body products. ‘Live Work, Visit, Invest Kilkenny’ takes place in the Round Tower in the Cathedral on Saturday, November 7. Attendees will have a unique opportunity

to browse at their leisure, connect directly with local businesses and discover how they can grow their career in The Marble City and surrounding towns and villages. The showcase will run from 10am right through to 1pm and members of the public will be able to enjoy panel discussions and even catch a live podcast recording of The Simpler Life? with James Kavanagh and William Murray during the event. Both have made Kilkenny their base, having moved here from Dublin, partly thanks to the widespread availability of Fiber Broadband in Kilkenny. Attendees will get an exclusive opportunity to chat with employers and get the inside scoop on available job roles. Business and Broadband representatives will be ready to answer questions and help them find the perfect fit, based on their interests and experience. Free tickets are limited and interested members of the public can register here: https://www. eventbrite.ie/e/live-workvisit-invest-kilkenny-tickets-2000259843036

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

News Schools in Kilkenny are among the latest to join the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Programme, announced by Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, together with Ministers of State Seán Canney and Jerry Buttimer and the National Transport Authority (NTA). Round 5 will bring a further 83 schools into the programme, with schools from every county in Ireland represented. This will bring the total number of participating schools to 609, meaning almost two-thirds of the 932 schools that originally applied are now being actively supported in creating safer and more attractive conditions for children and families walking, wheeling and cycling to school. In Co. Kilkenny, the five schools that will benefit from the most recent round of funding are Bunscoil McAuley Rice, Church Hill NS, Cuffesgrange, Grennan College, SN Tobair Eoin Baisde, Johnswell NS and St Beacon’s NS. Since its launch in 2021, the Safe Routes to School Programme has grown into one of Ireland’s most ambitious active travel initiatives. The remaining schools that applied to join the programme will continue to be brought forward through future rounds, as the pipeline of projects progresses nationwide. The programme is funded by the Department of Transport through the NTA’s Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme and is co-ordinated by the Safe Routes to School Team at An Taisce. Working in partnership with all 31 local authorities, schools and local communities, the programme aims to make journeys to school safer, more attractive and more accessible for children across Ireland. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said: “Safe Routes to School is delivering real benefits for communities by enabling more children to walk, wheel and cycle to school safely, reducing traffic congestion and helping to create healthier, more sustainable communities for future generations. “Interventions under the Safe Routes to School Programme are already having an impact, with the most recent census showing the first increase in children walking to school in a generation. I look forward to building on this momentum as the programme continues to grow and support safer, more active journeys to more schools across Ireland.” Minister of State with responsibility for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports, Seán Canney, said: “The key to encouraging more children to walk, wheel and cycle to school is ensuring that they can do so safely. The Safe Routes to School Programme

Let’s get you to school – safely Kilkenny among latest schools to join Safe Routes programme has already delivered physical improvements like cycle paths, permeability links and School Streets to almost 200 schools, helping to create safer and more attractive routes for children and their families.” Minister of State with responsibility for Rural Transport Jerry Buttimer said: “It is wonderful to see that Safe Routes to School projects have been completed at almost 200 schools to date. It is heartening to see the enthusiasm for delivery from students, parents, teachers and the wider community alike who recognise the importance of keeping our schoolchildren safe, healthy and active in their day-today journeys. I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the efforts of the SRTS teams in the NTA and An Taisce as well as the Local Authority Active Travel teams in continuously rolling out these projects nationwide.” The Safe Routes to School Programme has benefited from continued Government investment through the NTA’s Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme, which is supported under the National Development Plan. More than €50 million has been invested in Safe Routes to School between 2021 and

2025, with an additional €24 million allocated in 2026, with ongoing funding commitments supporting the expansion of the programme to additional schools. These improvements include the distinctive Irish Safe Routes to School design approach, featuring pencilshaped bollards, colourful road markings, upgraded footpaths and improved pedestrian crossings. This nationally recognised design palette helps create safer, more child-friendly environments around schools. Anne Graham, CEO, National Transport Authority, said: “By creating safer, more accessible and more welcoming streets around schools, we are making it easier for children to walk, wheel and cycle while giving parents greater confidence in how their children travel. The positive changes we are seeing go far beyond the school gate, helping to build healthier habits, reduce traffic congestion and create stronger, more connected communities. With over 600 schools now participating, the programme is making a meaningful difference in towns, villages and cities nationwide.” Thomas Connell, Programme Manager, Safe Routes to Schools, said: “As we welcome a new group

THE STORY SO FAR... • 189 school zones completed • 42 projects under construction • 83 at pre-construction design stage • 19 at public consultation • 110 at preliminary design • 81 at options development, following completion of school surveys In addition to infrastructure improvements such as school zones, school streets, traffic calming measures and enhanced crossing facilities, the programme has delivered extensive support for cycling and scooting. Since 2021, 665 schools that applied to the programme have received cycle parking. of schools into Round 5, we continue working alongside those currently progressing through delivery phases and celebrate the schools that have already completed

their journey with us. Together with our delivery partners, we remain focused on supporting every participating school to make active travel a safe and practical daily choice.” Round 5 also includes nine schools located on higher-speed rural roads. These schools will benefit from equally distinctive Safe Routes to School measures specially tailored for those environments, including prominent signage and road markings that alert drivers to the presence of a school and encourage lower speeds. The programme is showing real results on the ground. Surveys collected from schools where infrastructure interventions have been completed, representing almost 1,700 students across Ireland, show cycling to school has increased by almost 49%, walking has increased by 8%, while car use has fallen by more than 10%. Scooting has increased by 17.5%, and public transport use has increased by almost 16%. The latest schools joining the programme will now begin working with local authorities and Safe Routes to School Infrastructure Officers to identify measures suited to their local circumstances, helping to create safer and more welcoming

environments for students, staff and families. Funding is available to local authorities to deliver Safe Routes to School infrastructure through the Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme Allocation from the Department of Transport. Safe Routes to School projects typically have a median cost of €380,000, although costs vary depending on the scale of works undertaken by local authorities. Costs and timelines for project delivery depend on factors such as required interventions, public consultation, planning consent, construction scheduling and annual local authority budgets. Round 5 schools were selected using the same criteria as previous rounds, ensuring a mix of school types (primary and secondary) and locations (urban, suburban and rural). Selection also considered socio-economic diversity (DEIS and non-DEIS schools), demonstrated commitment to sustainable travel (e.g., Walk On Wednesday, Cycle Bus, Park & Stride audits), proximity to other schools and alignment with active travel or safety schemes planned by local authorities. • Photo credit: Julien Behal

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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News

Official opening of Joyces Expert Kilkenny Wexford family business Joyces Expert celebrates exciting new chapter with official opening attended by hurling stars Lee Chin and Jackie Tyrrell Kilkenny Retail Park was buzzing on Saturday, October 10th, as Joyces Expert officially opened the doors of its brand-new store in Kilkenny. A great crowd turned out to celebrate the occasion, with Wexford hurling star Lee Chin and Kilkenny hurling legend Jackie Tyrrell officially cutting the ribbon. Visitors enjoyed special opening offers, refreshments and plenty of prizes, adding to the excitement of the day. Established in 1944 by Murt Joyce Snr, Joyces began as a small hardware store at 7 North Main Street in Wexford Town. Over eight decades later, the business has grown into a well-established family retailer, offering an extensive range of home appliances, televisions, audio equipment and technology, while remaining true to the values on which it was founded. Now in its third generation, the family business is led by Derek and Murt Joyce, alongside Derek's sons, Cillian and Ciaran and Murt’s son Murt Junior. The opening of Joyces

Expert Kilkenny marks an exciting new milestone in the company's journey, bringing its long-standing reputation for quality products, expert advice and customer service to a new audience. Located in Kilkenny Retail Park, the new store offers customers access to leading brands across home appliances, TVs, audio and technology, backed by the friendly, knowledgeable service that has been at the heart of Joyces since 1944. Reflecting on the company's remarkable journey, the Joyce family remembers the determination and entrepreneurial spirit of its founder, Murt Joyce Snr. From cycling to Dublin to source products during the challenges of the Second World War to embracing new opportunities in electrical appliances and television, his ambition laid the foundations for the business Joyces is today. Derek Joyce said: “We are delighted to have officially opened our new store in Kilkenny and have been so pleased with the warm

welcome we have received from the people of Kilkenny. We are very much looking forward to becoming part of the local community and

welcoming customers into our new store.” The opening represents a significant step in Joyces' continued growth beyond its

Wexford roots. As the business looks to the future, it remains committed to bringing quality products, expert advice and exceptional

customer service to customers in Wexford, Kilkenny and beyond, while continuing the family tradition established more than 80 years ago.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

I wouldn’t put the rainy-day money here The new personal investment account is not the SSIA of old. Anyone who remembers the old scheme should get that straight before July 2027. From next July, anyone over 18 who is tax-resident here and has a PPS number can open one. You can put in up to €12,000 a year, but if you don’t use the allowance, you lose it. You can take money out when you like, subject to the fund rules you have bought. There is no State top-up. The old scheme gave you €1 for every €4 you saved. That was a big part of its appeal. This one has no such incentive. The tax treatment looks good. There is no capital gains tax, no tax on dividends and no exit tax. The eight-year deemed disposal that catches people investing in funds and ETFs is gone, and the provider handles the tax return. But there is a catch. Once the fund goes over €50,000, a 1% annual levy applies to the amount above that figure. A couple could each have

€50,000 before the levy kicks in, giving them €100,000 between them. That €50,000 is a lifetime threshold, not an allowance that resets every year. The levy is the part I would look at closely. It applies in good years and bad ones. If your fund finishes the year at €56,000, you owe €60. If it then

falls to €53,000 the following year, you still owe €30, even though you have lost money. There are limits on what you can hold. No cash, no crypto and no derivatives. What is in: listed shares, bonds and exchange-traded funds. Banks and insurers are expected to sell straightforward products

through an app, with fees hopefully below 0.5% a year. You will have high, medium or low risk options. Tick a box. That may get someone started, but it is not the same as proper financial advice. Half a percent costs €100 a year on €20,000. At 1% that becomes €200. On €50,000 the

gap builds over time, because the charge comes off the whole fund every year. Want someone to go through your circumstances, rather than pick an option on a screen? Expect more than 1%, sometimes closer to 1.5%. For many people, that means making the decisions themselves and hoping they have got them right. It must beat a bank account after tax and fees. Demand deposits remain poor. A notice account might pay 2 or 3%, but DIRT takes a third. The Stoxx Europe 600 averaged about 8% a year over 20 years, and fell 12% in 2022. A long-term average is less comforting if you need the money in a bad year. Anyone who bought Eircom in 1999 will know that markets do not always deliver what people expect. The €12,000 cap seems cautious. I suspect the banks had a hand in that. They will not be keen to see money leave. I wouldn’t put the rainy-day

money here. That needs to always be available for emergencies. Nor should you open one before the pension is sorted. Pension tax relief remains one of the strongest incentives available, and it deserves your attention first. For money you can leave alone for years, and can afford to see fall in value, the account could make sense. It may suit people who have already dealt with the basics. But it is an investment account, not a savings account, and the distinction matters. The consumer watchdog has welcomed the scheme. That is fine, but remember nobody should see the word State and assume their money is protected. The warnings that investments can fall as well as rise are there for a reason. They may be the least exciting part of the advertising, but they are the most important. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum scoops prestigious National Age-Friendly Award national category specifically recognises projects that transform public infrastructure with the needs of older people at the forefront. The award celebrates a series of recent accessibility initiatives across Woodstock Gardens including feature such as: • Accessible pathways and an inclusive playground • Dedicated age-friendly seating and parking areas • An accessible shuttle bus service • Free all-terrain wheelchairs for visitors

(L-R) Mary Harding (Kilkenny Older People's Council), Anne Marie Shortall (KCC), Cllr. Joe Malone (Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council), Frank Stafford (KCC), Tommy Moore (KCC), Paul Moran (KCC), Mary O’Hanlon (Chairperson, Kilkenny Older People’s Council)

Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum has been named the winner of the prestigious Age-Friendly Environment Award (Outdoor Spaces and

Buildings) at the National Age Friendly Awards ceremony, held in Limerick on Thursday, 8th October. The built physical environ-

ment has a profound impact on the daily lives of older people. Simple infrastructure choices such as adequate public seating, level footpaths,

and appropriate pedestrian crossing times, greatly influence how active and engaged senior citizens can remain within their communities. This

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Cllr. Joe Malone, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, emphasised the vital importance of inclusive public spaces, adding "This award acknowledges the significant work undertaken by the Kilkenny County Council Parks Department and the many other dedicated stakeholders involved. Together, they have truly made Woodstock a must-visit destination in the South-East for everyone, regardless of mobility." This latest accolade further consolidates Woodstock

Gardens’ reputation on the national stage. It follows a remarkable streak of achievements, including winning the Heritage and Built Environment category at the 2025 Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards, and the Best Inclusive Public Realm & Accessibility Project at the 2026 LAMA All-Ireland Community & Council Awards. Frank Stafford, Senior Engineer at Kilkenny County Council, expressed his pride in the team's ongoing success and that it continues to demonstrate the council’s ongoing commitment to the National Age Friendly Programme. "We are delighted that Woodstock has once again been recognised for setting a national benchmark in accessible public spaces. This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our Parks and Woodstock teams over many years. I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Woodstock Committee members, the Council’s Age Friendly Team and the Kilkenny Age Friendly Alliance for their invaluable support and guidance."

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Remembering Murty Brennan The community in Kilkenny is in mourning following the passing of Murty Brennan, talented musician, dedicated community activist and successful soccer coach. After early education in CBS Primary and Secondary Schools, Murty, following the sound of a different drum, embarked on working life with an enthusiastic, independent vibrancy. Not one to follow the well-trodden track, Murty entered the workforce the same way as he lived his life — freely, fearlessly and on his own terms. That spirit defined everything that followed. Illness Quickly, entrepreneurial endeavours followed and Murty ran a restaurant, a clothes store, a toy store and a furniture outlet. All these projects were relatively successful but when a major breakthrough was imminent, disaster struck. A serious illness derailed his plans and his dreams and aspirations were put on hold. A liver transplant saved his life but the recovery process was slow and arduous. Resilient and determined, Murty battled back, refocused, and once more followed his personal drummer. Speaking of his death, Mayor Andrew McGuinness commented that Murty was a great community man who had an incredible ability to bring people together, particularly minority groups and worked tirelessly to make sure that space was available to every one that needed it. “He will be sadly missed”, said Andrew. Clancy Murty assumed the role of Stage Manager at the Watergate Theatre and his enthusiasm and dynamism brought enjoyment and fulfilment. The legendary Liam Clancy, on hearing Murty was a songwriter and performer, handed Murty his second guitar, and both men sang in the theatre Green Room prior to one of Clancy's shows. Two men relaxed in each other's company, simply doing what they loved Celtic Celtic Cry, the brainchild of Murty, ran at the Watergate during a Summer season. Celtic Cry told the story of the history of Ireland from the beginning of time. Murty began writing original material for the Celtic Cry show in 2010. Then, with the help of Musical Director John Travers and a cast of international musicians, he created a show for all nationalities and ages. The hard work and commitment was a boon to the Watergate that Summer season and enthused both tourists and locals. “Murty’s secret

Mayor Andrew Mc Guinness presented a Mayors award to Murty for his contribution to Community work with Twilight. Photo @AobPhotography

Remembering Murty Brennan

A life of music sport and welcome was that as a musician, or writer, he was always prepared to try something new. Nothing was ever a problem as far as Murty

was concerned” said John Travers. Musician and singer with The High Kings, Darren Holden said he was devastated to hear the news

The front line of Celtic Cry pictured at the launch at Smithwick’s Brewery

of Murty’s passing. Darren reminisced as to how Murty gave him his first Kilkenny City gig back in the early 90’s when he was running

the Indian Restaurant on Pudding Lane. “We became friends and stayed in regular contact, from then up to his death” said Darren. Athletics In his youth Murty was an exceptionally talented athlete and represented Kilkenny locally, nationally, and internationally. As his athletics career closed, his competitiveness encompassed Pitch & Putt. He became a very accomplished player and won a multitude of championships. Representing Newpark Pitch & Putt Club, Murty won a National doubles title partnered by fellow Newpark neighbour and friend Ger Grace. Murty also had a stint as a soccer goalkeeper and modestly claimed to be its pre-eminent exponent for over a decade. Age and illness saw

him remove the gloves but, undeterred, he seamlessly transitioned into the role of team coach. With Newpark in the Kilkenny District League and with Old Road Villa in the Carlow League, he guided underachievers to ultimate glory. His players, while appreciating the trophies, will perhaps remember him best for the encouragement, discipline and the selfbelief he instilled. On their social media page , Newpark FC stated: “Murty sunk his heart and soul into everything he did in life, including the years of work he did for, and on behalf of, Newpark Football club. Murty volunteered so much of his time to us, something we will be forever grateful for”.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Remembering Murty Brennan Lotta Virkkunen – Violin, Piano, who performed in Celtic Cry at the Watergate Theatre

International Miscellany, organised by Murty Brennan and performed at the St Canice’s Community hall

Murty, with balladeer Liam Clancy at the Watergate Theatre Murty Brennan, who poured his heart and soul into Newpark FC

Community But it is perhaps for his tireless work as a community activist that he will be most fondly remembered. His work with Kilkenny Public Participation Network, Age Alliance, Kilkenny Volunteer Centre and the Older People's Council allowed him to become a vociferous advocate for the people of Kilkenny. Allied to these endeavours, Murty was prominently involved when Newpark celebrated its 60th anniversary

with a celebration dinner in O' Loughlin Gaels GAA Club. Following the success of this venture, Murty became a founding member of the Newpark Residents Association and was to the fore as the estate delivered a beneficial regeneration programme. Not content with this workload, Murty founded the Twilight Community Group, with the expressed aim of supporting integration and cultural understanding. Twilight's success can be gauged by the international involvement in their Intercultural Conference held every year in Kilkenny. Delegates from France, Poland, Italy, USA, Hungary, Morocco, Romania, Ukraine, Bangladesh, South Sudan, Spain and Malta attend. Ireland, represented by TDs, Mayors, County Council officials, and leaders of many of the major charitable organisations within the State. Romania Liviu Iftime, from the Romanian community, said that Murty Brennan was the man who welcomed him, trusted him, and gave him a voice here in Kilkenny. “ He was a kind, brave man who brought people together that is his greatest legacy and I will try to carry it forward. I will never forget him,”concluded Liviu. Arising from this involvement, Murty was named as the Polish Consul for the South

East. The overriding ethos of his community involvement was ensuring that everyone not only had a place at the table, but had a voice also. Family No mention of Murty's life would be complete without mentioning his family. His wife Sandra was his rock. She supported him, guided him and nursed him through the difficult times. In her quiet, unassuming way she was the glue that solidified the family dynamic. Their children Mark, Philip and Eve brought focus, stability and fulfilment. His

Murty Brennan pictured with Darren Holden of The High Kings

grandchildren Luke, Robin and Mia gave him a renewed zest for life and filled his days with enormous joy and happiness. Hopefully as they grow older they will understand how they completed Murty’s

existence. Murty was a multifaceted individual — abrasive, determined, dictatorial at times — but he will be best remembered as a man of principle, great warmth and generosity, always ready with a word of Support or a helping hand. His passing leaves a silence in our lives, within the music scene, on the sideline, and in the heart of the community he served so well. But his legacy will live on — in the songs he sang, the people he loved, and the many families who found a home because he made them welcome. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. (Ger Cody)

Long time friend and musical director of Celtic Cry, John Travers

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Silly love songs, 50 years on and forever! It’s music, music all the way this week but not just any old music although the music is old, 50 years old to be precise and yet it all sounds fresh to me, as if they were hits from yesterday – not from 1976. A tribute to the quality of the songs. Here are some of those hits from 1976. *Silly Love Songs, Paul McCartney’s Wings. This song topped the US charts for five weeks, longer than any other single in ’76. Paul is said to have written it in response to a quote from John Lennon saying McCartney only wrote silly love songs for The Beatles. Paul’s message to John was simple: “You may call them silly love songs but what’s wrong with that?” The song’s huge success was taken as a sign that the record-buying public agree. *The Boys Are Back In Town, Thin Lizzy (who

played on radio but Freddy Mercury insisted that it either goes out in its entirety or it doesn’t go out at all. The famous video was created especially for Top Of The Pops and shot in three hours. It started at 7.30pm, finished at 10.30 pm and they were in the pub 15 minutes later. Freddy Mercury, born in Tanzania, died from Aids in 1991, aged 45. played several times in the Carlton Ballroom). Years since Lizzy’s hit debut single, Whiskey In The Jar, the song was written under pressure from management to produce another hit. They pulled it off. It reached Number 8 in the Charts and was NME’s (New Musical Express) Best Single of ’76. Phil Lynott died in 1986 aged

36 and is immortalised with a bronze statue outside his favourite Dublin pub, Bruxelles on Harry St, just off Grafton St. *Bohemian Rhapsody, Queen. At nearly six minutes it was felt that Bohemian Rhapsody was too long to be

*Save Your Kisses For Me, Brotherhood Of Man. This won the Eurovision Song Contest for Britain and became the UK’s best-selling single of 1976. In later years Brotherhood Of Man toured alongside fellow Eurovision winners Bucks Fizz ,secure in the knowledge that Save Your Kisses For Me remains the

most successful Eurovisionwinning song ever.

Gaynor Hopkins, died last July 8, aged 75.

* Oh What A Night, the Four Seasons. The song’s full title is December 1966 (Oh, What a Night) originally the lyrics referenced 1933, the year Prohibition ended in America. Frankie Valli was the Seasons’s lead singer and most famous member. Formed in 1960, the Four Seasons performed for more than 60 years, helped by the fact that they’d had 30 different members over the decades.

*Forever And Ever, Demis Roussos. This song gave Egyptian-born Greek Roussos a Np. 1 hit in 1976. Over his lifetime he slod more than 60 million albums. He survived a hostage ordeal when terrorists hijacked a TWA flight in 1985 and in 2014 had a newly discovered asteroid called after him. *Dancing Queen, Abba. Perhaps the band’s most enduring No. 1 (they also had a hit with Fernando in ’76) .Among the many artists who covered it are U2 who featured it in their 1992 ‘Zoo TV’ tour and were joined on stage by Benny and Bjorn when the show hit Stockholm. Before its UK release Abba performed it for a real Queen as part of Sweden’s national celebrations marking the wedding of their Queen Silvia to King Carl XV1 Gestaf.

*Lost In France, Bonnie Tyler. This was Bonnie Tyler’s first major chart success and kick-started five decades of music success. Radio 1’s Simon Bates declared at the time: “If this isn’t a hit I’ll scrub the steps of Broadcasting House with a toothbrush.” Luckily it reached Number 9 in the Charts. Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler, real name

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future By Judith Ashton

Is modern medicine forgetting natural health? “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” is a quote widely attributed to the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates. He was also allegedly the guy who wrote the Hippocratic Oath, namely, the ethics of medicine. The four principles of which were: Beneficence: Acting in the best interest of the patient Non-Maleficence: Doing no harm to the patient Autonomy: Respecting the patient’s right to make their own decisions regarding their medical care Justice: Fair distribution of health resources and treating all patients equitably The Confucian medical ethics were similar but added continuous professional development to hone skills and keep their moral character above reproach. The ancient Greek physicians were answerable to the gods Apollo, Asclepius, Hygieia and Panacea and swore to adhere to the oath.

They valued natural remedies, mind-body connections and advocated a healthy lifestyle. In ancient times, medicine wasn’t big business. Chinese doctors reportedly received a monthly retainer to keep patients healthy; their pay was reduced when a patient fell ill until they recovered. The guiding principle was that doctors prevent illness rather than treat disease. I recently saw a poster that read: “Let food be your medicine and medicine be your food or let it slowly poison you!” Think about all the ultra-processed food that people are eating and wondering why they get ill! How much nutritional training do western medical doctors receive? Less than 1% of total lecture hours! Approximately 11 hours in their entire six-to-seven-year training! Incredible! In 1910, John D. Rockefeller was THE influencer of his era. His vast oil fortune funded new allopathic medical

schools across the USA, extensive scientific research and the development of the modern pharmaceutical industry. His investments helped marginalise herbal medicine, homeopathy, natural remedies and other approaches. A highly effective opportunist, his wealth gave him influence across many areas of contemporary society. Founded in 1896, Rockefeller University Press partnered with two other publishers in 2018 to launch the Life Science Alliance, a journal for research findings. When major institutions and pharmaceutical companies fund research, they are unlikely to publish findings that do not support profitability. It is therefore unsurprising that much modern medical research dismisses natural remedies as quackery or snake oil. Because natural plant remedies cannot usually be patented, treating winter

colds with honey, ginger, turmeric, lemon and garlic does not generate profits for pharmaceutical companies! Imagine that! However, big pharma’s engagement with Irish medical institutions and healthcare professionals is worth millions of dollars. Illness is a lucrative business. Every prescription, vaccine, pill or potion (despite possible side effects!) makes money for the doctor, the pharmacist and the pharmaceutical industry. Thomastown is a small town with three pharmacies, while Ballyhale and Gowran, villages without shops, have one each! According to Irish Stats, there are 40 in Co. Kilkenny and 18 in the city alone. There are nearly 2,000 in Ireland, and 42% of adults live within 1km of one! Medical advances have undoubtedly brought enormous benefits; we owe much to antibiotics, however, overprescribing has

reduced their effectiveness. My mother worked with Sir Alexander Fleming, who discovered antibiotics, at St. Mary’s Hospital, London. She often recalled that childhood cancer was rare and sadly everyone knew when a child was admitted for treatment. The new children’s hospital will have 380 beds, 93 day beds, 22 operating theatres and expects 127,000 emergencies p.a. They expect a lot of ill children. (Fact: The Department of Health has overspent €1 billion!) Have we become healthier over time? People are living longer, but TILDA data show that many spend their final 14 years in poor health and reliant on medication. Globally, illness is increasing. Ireland faces many modern illnesses, including obesity, diabetes, autoimmune diseases and rising cancer rates among younger people. I know many people living with chronic conditions. Do we have a Department

of Health, or should it be renamed the Department of Ill Health? As winter approaches and colds become more common, consider the following: • Wash your hands regularly. • If you are coughing or sneezing, avoid socialising, keep warm and go to bed early. • Get plenty of fresh air, breathe deeply and ventilate your rooms. • Avoid processed food, consider fasting briefly and drink plenty of fluids. • If you feel unwell, rest and skip the gym for a few days. Constant overstimulation can strain the nervous system and weaken immunity. Learn to rest, naturally restore balance, renew your energy and relax. Listen to your body before visiting the GP and take some responsibility for your well-being. I have a lovely GP, but he knows the less often I need to see him, the better.

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Advertisement News

Award winning by the Barrow In Goodly Barrow we were both surprised and delighted to be given an award at the Carlow Chamber of Commerce Business awards last week. Winning Best Hospitality Provider, in a very tough field, is testimony to the hard work of the staff, Bryan Donnelly and his team, and the wonderful support we have had from our customers from both sides of the Barrow. A huge thanks from us to all involved. The Goodly Barrow (which takes its name from the brilliant book The Goodly Barrow authored by TF O Sullivan, now in reprint) is the brainchild of Tom O’Neill originally from Ballon, Co. Carlow, now living in Kilkenny. The Goodly Barrow, both a wonderful Museum of the Waterways in Ireland and an award winning cafe, is housed within the stone walls of an old canal store on the banks of the mighty Barrow. The cafe has become known for its friendly service, great coffee and freshly made food (healthy in the main plus a few indulgent offerings such as our warm, sticky cinnamon buns!). The Museum is a treasure trove of information, including rare

Bryan with some of the team with the award A sample of the detail that makes every thing special

Receiving the award

footage of those who worked on the rivers and canals, and interviews with river men and women. The restored building, which has lived many lives (including that of a coffin factory under Dick and Frances Long) is now alive again. For that we are grateful. Tucked beside the River Barrow in Goresbridge, the Goodly Barrow is a special destination where good food, local heritage and the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside come together. More than simply a place to stop for a cup of tea or lunch, this welcoming café and

museum offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a little taste of Ireland's waterways history in a wonderfully scenic setting. Situated in the picturesque village of Goresbridge, Co Kilkenny, the Goodly Barrow offers visitors a welcoming combination of good food, local history and beautiful riverside surroundings. Housed in a restored old canal store, this unique café and museum celebrates the heritage of the River Barrow while providing a relaxing place to enjoy a meal, meet friends or take a break from exploring the countryside.

The building itself has a fascinating connection with the area's past. The River Barrow once played an important role in transporting goods and supporting trade, helping shape the lives of communities along its banks. Today, the museum brings

that history to life through an interesting collection of maps, photographs, artefacts, information panels and video interviews. Visitors can discover how the waterways operated and learn more about the people who depended on them. The café complements this heritage experience with a tempting selection of freshly prepared food. The menu includes homemade soups, sandwiches, salads and the popular Goodly Bowls, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, herbs and spices. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices are also available, ensuring there is something to suit a variety of tastes and dietary requirements. Visitors have praised the quality of the homemade soups, generously filled toasted sandwiches and fresh salads. Those with a sweet tooth can also enjoy a selection of cakes and baked treats, with the cinnamon buns proving particularly popular. A cup of freshly prepared coffee or tea provides the perfect finishing touch to a leisurely visit. Another of the Goodly Barrow's attractions is its location overlooking the River Barrow and the nearby

bridge. The peaceful setting provides an ideal backdrop for lunch or a relaxing coffee break. Comfortable indoor seating is available, while outdoor seating allows visitors to enjoy the riverside atmosphere when the weather is favourable. Its location also makes the café an appealing stopping point for walkers exploring the Barrow Way. After a stroll along the riverbank, visitors can relax over a bowl of soup or a sandwich before continuing their journey. The welcoming outdoor area also makes it an attractive option for those walking with their dogs. What makes the Goodly Barrow special is the way it combines hospitality, heritage and the natural beauty of the local landscape. It gives a historic building a new lease of life while providing a valuable meeting place for the community. Whether visiting for the food, exploring the museum or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings, the Goodly Barrow offers a pleasant experience in the heart of Goresbridge. It is a reminder that local history and good hospitality do combine to create somewhere truly worth discovering.

Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet

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Savour Kilkenny

Still time to Savour: Top festival experiences with tickets still available Savour Kilkenny returns this October Bank Holiday weekend from the 22nd to 26th October 2026, and while highdemand events at the festival are already fully booked, food lovers and festival-goers still have a fantastic opportunity to secure tickets for some of the weekend’s most unique dining & drinks events, talks, tours and workshops with all price ranges in mind, from €0 to €110 per ticket. Running from October 22nd to October 26th, Ireland’s premier food festival features a packed programme. For those looking to plan an unforgettable October Bank Holiday weekend, several standout events still have availability: UNDER €25 Sullivan’s Signature Tour (23rd–25th October, 12pm, Sullivan’s Brewery): Discover 323 years of brewing heritage in an immersive 30-minute experience. Tickets €5 + BF (Over 18s). Imbibing Art Cocktail Mixology & Tasting (Thursday 22nd October, 6:30pm–8pm, Butler Gallery Cafe): Clare Anne O’Keefe presents cocktails

inspired by gallery artworks. Tickets €20 (Over 18s). Smithwick’s Stories, Beer & Brewing (Friday 23rd October, 7:30pm, Smithwick’s Experience): Guided beer tastings, artisan pretzels and brewing stories with Steve Gilsenan and Pádraig Fox. Brewery Bites and Tastings Tickets €18.50 + BF (Over 18s). The Wine CenSaturday 24th October, 3pm and 4:30pm tre’s Whiskey and 6pm, Sullivan’s Secret (€25 + BF). Fair (Sunday Garden): Sample over 60 inMairéad 25th October, ternational wines with expert Finnegan: Creative hub paint 3pm, Sullivan’s guidance. Friday tickets €35 Scale Your Food your favourite Brewery Secret (Over 18s). Business with food! Garden): Meet Irish LEO (Sunday 25th whiskey makers and UNDER €110 October, 11:30am, sample exceptional varieties. Smoke, Sip & Savour (Friday Taste Stage): Learn how to Tickets €25 + BF (Over 18s). 23rd October, 7:30pm, Paris grow a food business and Herbal Walking Tour (24th– Texas): Six-course BBQ-insecure supermarket listings. 25th October, 12pm, Newpark spired tasting menu paired Free, booking required. Fen): Discover native wild with premium Belvedere plants and their medicinal Vodka and Patrón Tequila UNDER €50 and edible properties with cocktails. Tickets €69.95. Brewery Bites & Tastings herbalist Lucy Glendinning. A Celebration of the Supper (Thursday 22nd October, 5pm Adults €25, children €10. Club Series (Sunday 25th and 7pm, Sullivan’s Brewery): Children’s Creative Hub October, 6:30pm, Statham’s Enjoy local artisan food and (Sunday 25th October, The Restaurant): Seasonal dining craft drinks featuring GoatOld Bank, The Parade): sbridge Trout, The Truffle by Chef Ken Harker, arClay Creations, 9:45am and rival cocktail and handcrafted Fairy and Highbank Orchards. 11:15am (€20–€25 + BF); MADE in Kilkenny tableware. Tickets €35 + BF. Veggie Printing, 1:30pm (€20 Tickets €90 + BF. The Wine Centre Wine Fair + BF); Pottery Painting, 3pm The 1786 Long Table Dinner (Friday 23rd October, 6pm;

Climate Change – are we all playing our part?

WEEK 190

"St. Francis died 800 years ago this month"

(Sunday 25th October, 7pm, Butler House): Celebrate Butler House’s 240th anniversary with a Georgian-inspired fivecourse dinner featuring local produce. Tickets €95, including cocktail and canapés. A Samhain Medieval Feast (Friday 23rd and Sunday 25th October, 7pm, Rothe House): Enjoy an atmospheric fourcourse medieval feast featuring artisan produce, ancient spices and fire-roasted specialities. Tickets €110, including cocktail and wine. In addition to these ticketed experiences, visitors can enjoy a wealth of free-admission events across the weekend. This includes entry to the Festival Quarter, home to the bustling Savour Market and Artisan Food Pavilion on The Parade, live cooking demonstrations from top Irish chefs on the Savour and Taste Stages, and the vibrant Sounds of Samhain music lineup in Kilkenny Castle Park on Sunday. To check live ticket availability, view event timings, and book your place, visit www. savourkilkenny.com.

FREE MUSIC PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED FOR KILKENNY CASTLE PARK APART OF SAVOUR KILKENNY As Savour Kilkenny celebrates its landmark festival from 22nd to 26th October 2026, the festival is pairing its world-class culinary lineup with an exciting celebration of arts, culture, and live performance. Taking centre stage in the Kilkenny Castle Park is a fantastic free music programme of local bands designed for all ages. Sounds of Samhain taking place on Sunday, October 25th from 11am - 4:30pm in Kilkenny Castle Park. This event is completely free and requiring no booking is supported by Fáilte Ireland's Strategic Festival Fund 2026 - 2028, this family-friendly event features a vibrant day of live entertainment. The line-up includes the Hannah Hoops Children's Disco in the morning, performances by Burnchurch, traditional Irish music from Craobh Osraí (Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann), and an afternoon pop/rock set by The Uptown Band. For more information on the full festival schedule, visit www.savourkilkenny. com.

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Opinion The cover of Jimmy Rhatigans new book

Ripping reads in

Rhatigan’s rag!

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

A book that thinks it’s a newspaper. That’s how veteran journalist Jimmy Rhatigan describes his long-awaited new tome The aptly titled Rhatigan’s Rag will make its debut on October 22nd at Paris Texas. It promises to be a night to remember, with the city’s literati and glitterati expected to throng the High Street venue and rub shoulders with Jimmy’s legion of friends and acquaintances. The 475 -page volume is a helter-skelter of “ripping yarns” celebrating scores of the rare characters, and outstanding city and county folk that Jimmy says he had the “privilege” of meeting and writing about in the course of his 60 years in journalism. “The rag” was an age-old scathing nickname for a newspaper. I met Jimmy at the Costa café in Loughboy last weekend where he discussed the book, after chatting for ages about a wide range of world, national and local issues, ranging from politics, demographics, the economy, and medical malfeasance, to the

cost of living and the Seven Pillars of Wisdom. The wizened scribe has a little, and sometimes a lot, to say about any subject under the sun. Throughout his career, he has been what the fictional Sherlock Homes said of Dr Watson: “a fixed star in an ever-changing firmament.” He has weathered all the changes in journalism, including computerization and the social media revolution, and writes as lucidly and enchantingly now as he did when he kicked off his career back in 1967. If anything, his loyal fans will tell you, he has improved with age and experience, as I suppose we all like to think we do. Way back then, two years before a man landed on the moon, Jimmy went straight from a Christian Brothers School in Kilkenny (where pupils learned the hard way) into the office of the local newspaper. Following an interview process that would be unthinkable today, he was accepted as a trainee journalist on the strength of a school essay he’d written. The newspaper editor read the essay, was impressed with the gifted teenager’s command of English, and said, in effect, “You’re in!” That said, the decision to

Author and Journalist Jimmy Rhatigan

take Jimmy on board was one the newspaper never regretted. It proved an inspired move as Jimmy quickly showed his extraordinary skills as a reporter and subeditor. His eloquence, his knack for making a story out of even the most trivial event or grapevine chatter, and his uncommon literary prowess left other scribes scratching their heads or hoping to learn from Jimmy’s own style and modus operandi. He excelled at sports reporting, his personal interest in football a blessing in that respect, but he could write about anything that came his way, and he was always the one in the office who shone like a ray of sunlight when it came to comedy writing. For years, his Right on

Rhatigan column held readers in thrall, with queues forming outside shops on Wednesday mornings, even in small towns and villages, for that eagerly-awaited helping of wry humour and knockabout farce. In those quiet days before social media, people talked about little else in some Kilkenny households, at the street corners, and over their pints or glasses of wine in the pubs When the time came to formally retire from mainstream journalism, Jimmy didn’t put away the red pen or sell his laptop. He embarked on a new phase of his writing journey. He set up his popular Kilkenny Press online news portal and went on to publish two highly acclaimed books. In his memoir, Treasure Lost, Treasure Found (2023) he told how his mother overcame daunting economic challenges following her husband’s death in 1953. Jimmy recalled the ups and downs of family life and the memorable neighbourhood spirit that got people through the dark days. Last year saw the publication of Love Is, in which Jimmy wrote about 66 outstanding people in the county. That was book number three because in 1999 he won praise for Mud Sweat and

Tears, an entertaining look at Kilkenny’s soccer culture and the fortune of local clubs Emfa and Kilkenny City Football Club, detailing the community effort that kept local soccer afloat. Rhatigan’s Rag promises, if anything, to have an even broader appeal than the previous three books. The cover design has the appearance of an old style newspaper, and with this book there’s no let-up in the recitations and look-backs recalling a host of achievers, characters, makers and shakers, and fondly remembered pillars of comOne man and his dog Jim Walsh of Callan features in the book

munities, small and large, around the county. At the Costa Café, Jimmy cited some of the “wacky and wonderful” stories in the book and the dizzying assortment of people it encompasses. There’s a local hero who risked his life to save others, a brave mother who saved three lives, a woman he describes as a “sensational character” called Fanny Tracey, who, with her husband, “teased and tortured” local politicians to hold them to account in the robust politically incorrect old-fashioned way. There’s the story of a Kilkenny man who spent the first 15 years of his life in an orphanage. Then, on a humorous note, you can read about the man whose dog liked to smoke, another animal that went to Mass on a Sunday, and a stranger than fiction tale recounting how a female garment made in Kilkenny ended up as a major exhibit in a riveting and meticulously-reported court case in the city. He recalls a dedicated fiery cleric of the old school who fulminated against families that, he fumed, failed to take part in the life of Holy Mother Church in Kilkenny. People feared the pulpit in that radically different era and faith in the Men of God was stronger than it is today Aptly enough, given Jimmy’s life-long love of soccer and sport in general the book will be officially launched by no less a personality than the former Kilkenny City Manager Alfie Hale, who led the heroic Buckley Park players to League of Ireland success, among his other sterling achievements. Jimmy has dedicated the book to three special friends, his cousin Johnny Rhatigan, the late great actor Mary Craddock, and the legendary Paddy Phelan, who passed away recently. The launch will incorporate a musical tribute to the three of them. Fans are counting the hours and the minutes. It’ll be a wonderful night of craic, remembrance, and celebration as Rhatigan’s Rag is launched onto a sea of expectancy! The launch is at 8 pm, on October 22nd at Paris Texas. All are welcome.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Savour Kilkenny

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Savour Kilkenny

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: NEWS, LAUNCHES OR EVENTS ACROSS HEALTH & BEAUTY? CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Health & Beauty

Autumn beauty:

Hearing loss: signs you shouldn’t ignore

colour and glow PRODUCTS With October well underway, it’s time to swap summer’s barely-there beauty looks for something a little richer. Think chocolate-brown lips, shimmering berry eyes and a healthy-looking glow that lasts long after the summer holidays become a distant memory. Updating your make-up bag doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are three beauty buys worth considering this autumn.

Dany Kurniawan, pexels.com

HEALTH Hearing loss can develop gradually, making it easy to overlook early warning signs. You might find yourself turning up the TV, asking people to repeat themselves or struggling to follow conversations in busy places. According to Irish hearing charity Chime, around 300,000 adults in Ireland live with significant hearing loss. Yet many people delay seeking help, sometimes putting their difficulties down to ageing or assuming nothing can be done. One of the earliest signs is difficulty understanding speech, particularly when several people are talking or there is background noise.

Conversations in restaurants, family gatherings or crowded rooms may become increasingly tiring. Other warning signs include regularly mishearing words, finding telephone conversations difficult or noticing that other people’s voices seem muffled. Friends and family members may recognise these changes before the person experiencing them. Ringing, buzzing or humming in the ears, known as tinnitus, can also accompany hearing difficulties. The HSE advises contacting your GP if tinnitus is persistent, worsening or affecting sleep and concentration. Hearing loss has several possible causes, including

ageing, prolonged exposure to loud noise, ear infections and excessive earwax. Some causes are treatable, making professional assessment worthwhile. Sudden hearing loss is different from gradual deterioration and requires urgent medical attention. The HSE advises emergency care if tinnitus occurs alongside sudden hearing loss, facial weakness or a spinning sensation. Untreated hearing difficulties can affect everyday communication, relationships and social participation. Chime has highlighted the importance of identifying hearing loss early so people can access appropriate support. If you notice changes in your hearing, your GP can

examine your ears and arrange further testing where necessary. The HSE provides audiology services for eligible adults, including medical card holders, while Chime offers hearing assessments, advice and practical support. Protecting your hearing also matters. Keeping headphone volumes at sensible levels, limiting prolonged exposure to loud noise and wearing hearing protection when needed can help reduce the risk of damage. Hearing changes should not simply be dismissed as an inevitable part of getting older. Recognising the signs and seeking advice can make a meaningful difference to everyday life.

Make recovery part of your fitness plan EXERCISE Exercise is important for building strength and improving fitness, but rest is just as necessary. Whether you’re running, lifting weights or taking part in fitness classes, giving your body time to recover can help you stay active and avoid injury. When you exercise, particularly during strength training, your muscles experience small amounts of damage. The body repairs this tissue during recovery, helping muscles adapt and become stronger over time. How much recovery you need depends on the type and intensity of exercise. After a demanding workout, it’s generally a good idea to allow at least 48 hours before training the same muscle groups intensively again. Gentle walking, swimming or stretching can keep you

moving without placing too much strain on tired muscles - this is often called active recovery. Sleep is another important factor, and most adults need between seven and nine hours each night. Consistently poor sleep can affect energy levels, concentration and physical performance. What you eat and drink also matters. For example, protein helps repair and maintain muscle tissue, while carbohydrates replenish energy stores used during exercise. Drinking enough water is particularly important after strenuous activity or heavy sweating. Pay attention to signs that you may be doing too much. Persistent muscle soreness, unusual tiredness, disrupted sleep or declining performance can indicate that your body needs more recovery time. There’s no benefit in push-

MART PRODUCTION

ing through every workout when you’re exhausted. Building easier days into

your weekly routine can help you exercise more consistently.

1. The perfect mocha lip Brown lips are having a moment, and Rimmel has an affordable combination for anyone keen to try the look. Start with Rimmel Lasting Finish 8Hr Lip Liner in Brownie Pie (€5.99) to define the lips before adding Rimmel Oh My Gloss! Butter Me Up Lip Balm in Mellow Mocha (€12.99). The balm gives a sheer wash of warm brown colour with a glossy finish while giving lips a little extra TLC. Available from Boots, Tesco and selected independent pharmacies. 2. A touch of Bordeaux glamour If you fancy adding drama to your eyes, KIKO Milano Maxi Mod High Pigment Eyeshadow in Boldest Bordeaux (€8.99) is a great choice. This shimmering, deep wine shade has warm brown undertones and can be blended across the eyelids for a softer daytime finish or built up for an evening look. The smooth-textured formula gives intense colour and up to eight hours of wear. Pair it with simple lips and plenty of mascara. Available from KIKO Milano stores and kikocosmetics.com. 3. Keep that summer glow Who says glowing skin is only for summer? Azure Tan Green Base and Violet Base Self-Tanning Mousses (€24.90) offer a more personalised approach to self-tanning. The Green Base is designed to counteract pink and red undertones, creating a golden, olive-brown finish, while the Violet Base targets yellow and golden undertones for a richer brown result. Available from Chemist Warehouse, CH Tralee and McCauley’s.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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John Joe Cullen

A Kilkenny Patriot

John Joe Cullen

By PM O’Sullivan John Joe Cullen is singing ‘Danny Boy’ in Flanders. His voice sails off across the chalk, across the serried crosses and carefully tended plots. He is singing because Michael Burke, a paternal granduncle, is lying in one of four graves. He does not know which one. He keeps singing. “I have adopted those graves,” Cullen clarifies. “Because Michael’s in one of them. When I go over to Belgium, I bring holy water or something Irish for him. It was incredible to find his location.” He elaborates, voice heightening: “David Whithorn, a friend in England, is a wonderful World War I researcher. He was able to trace the body from battlefield to grave. David said: ‘Your granduncle is bur-

ied in Trois Arbres Cemetery, near the Belgian border.’ There’s a row of Royal Dublin Fusiliers, about 15 of them, and he gave the number. “Michael is one of the four with no name. And the four are one after another. David knew they were machine gunned at such a time, and hastily buried somewhere else, taken from the field. Then they were finally interred there.” Natural feeling cut a path: “Michael wasn’t found until 101 years after. He had been remembered on the Ploegsteert Memorial, which is one of Flanders’ most beautiful. But I was the first one in our family that visited him in over a century. It was really emotional, because the time we went was the one Friday of each month they have a ceremony. “You can lay a wreath. They do it with such dignity.”

His presence on Kilkenny’s Great War Memorial Committee? Another natural connection: “I was friendly with Dónal Croghan, the Chairman. I was happy to do it, without knowing too much at first. But curiosity drives you along in life. And then an uncle of mine told me about Michael, which brought the issue far closer.” The question of memorials, especially in an Irish context, can be contentious. John Joe Cullen remains admirably level: “The one thing we always felt was about the names on the wall. Putting the names on the wall and remembering these people, giving those names a person.

When the Continent met The West End. Photographed during ‘Letters from the front’ with West End star Rebecca Storm

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John Joe Cullen John Joe with Billy Sullivan. “Billy was an absolute gentleman”

Everyone deserves to be remembered. JJ Cullen ( third from left)with committee members of Kilkenny’s Great War Memorial Committee

“I hurled with all three of the town teams.”. John Joe Cullen ( 6th from left, back row) with St Mary’s

“These men went off for different reasons. They were trying to get money. And there’s the glamour side of war as well, for some people - before they actually get into it. Once they get in, the glamour goes out fairly quickly.” A kind of Kilkenny patriotism provided guidance: “Who are we to decide what their reasons were? Because the most important thing is to remember them as the Kilkenny people - and Irish people - that they were. They had a name. They had a life. They still have families in Kilkenny. And everyone deserves to be remembered, no matter what.” This aim is now achieved. The memorial wall in Kilkenny’s Peace Park With Lake Productions in ‘The Man born to be King’, staged at The Black Abbey, Kilkenny

got unveiled on July 16, 2018. This man constantly absorbed wisdom during the process: “Somebody said one time the Belgian people are lovely people - and they are. Somebody else said: ‘Why wouldn’t they be? They live in a graveyard.’ Every few miles, you’ll see a graveyard. And some of them are massive.” Go back 40 years. Back to 1978 and a James Stephens GAA Club trip. John Joe Cullen is singing en route to New York. He smiles: “Once the airplane took off, and we took off the seatbelts, we drank and sang our way over. Non stop. The captain complimented us. He had a ball, listening. “We hurled a few matches, naturally. New York was a fascinating place. John Joe Cullen at the WW1 memorial

We saw the Twin Towers, the Statue of Liberty. Then we were at a boxing match in Carnegie Hall. Next thing, shots were fired. The wrong lad was winning, apparently.” One reaction fixed a Polaroid in his mind: “One of our lads ran - and ran holding up his anorak over his head, as if it was going to stop bullets. We found that hilarious…” They came back, much enhanced: “That was a fantastic trip altogether, an eye opener. And yet I wouldn’t change Kilkenny for the world, or Ireland for the world. All these places have something but it’s not home.” John Joe Cullen stands long valued in many local contexts. His theatre involvements - Letters From The Front (2023) and The Man Born To Be King (2025), most recently - can only be fleetingly mentioned. There is so much. A popular businessman on John Street for several decades, he possesses an unusual distinction. “I hurled with all three of the town teams,” John Joe notes. “I was born in Athlone, where my father was stationed in the Barracks, but we moved to Kilkenny when I was three. We lived over around St John’s, before moving to Fr Murphy Square, which is ’Boro. Then we moved to Larchfield, when I was about 13, which brought me into The Village club.” Part of the Kilkenny patriotism? A love of hurling. He was a capable exponent and reached the ultimate with James Stephens in 1982, when they defeated Mount Sion for their second Club All Ireland title. Cullen is too modest to mention that he hurled left corner forward. He merely continues: “We lived on the Granges Road, after I got married in the 1980s, which brought me back into The ’Boro. Then we moved to O’Loughlin Road, which is obviously O’Loughlin Gaels. I hurled where our house was.” That 1978 trip to America coincided with a decisive life change as regards work: “I got a tremendous

training from Tom Cunniffe in VG Supermarket on Parliament Street. I had a part time job there and went full time after I left the CBS. I spent six and a half years there under Tom, a great man. “Then I heard about a job over in John Street, with Billy Sullivan. And at the time I was ready for a change. I was comfortable with Billy from the start. I was coming from a supermarket where the work was that bit more intense. You had to be ahead all of the time. “Billy was an absolute gentleman, a very straightforward man. In excess of 40 years, we never had a cross word.” Back in the 1970s, one young man’s sporting prowess hovered: The older man sketches: “That I was a hurler did no harm with Billy. He was Paddy Grace’s right hand man. Every Monday was hurling Monday. I nearly had to wear a helmet, the first few weeks, because there were balls flying in all directions…” Cullen offers a revealing anecdote on his employer’s standing: “Billy took a phone call in 1981 from the Kilkenny People , about the state of hurling in the county. And I remember Billy replying: ‘As long as water flows and ash grows, there will be hurling in Kilkenny.’ Just came out of him. He had it. And he was right.” His protégé took over the business in the early 1990s, a transition that proved seamless. Names of key workers he wants to acknowledge Terry Brown, Paddy Butler, Martin Coyne, Oliver Cullen, Joey Lawless - come quick. He believes in warm acknowledgement on all fronts and hits nub: “John Street was a fabulous spot to do business.” A new life now spreads, beckoning with grace notes. He turned 70 in July. His butchery closed on July 19. He is a retired man, as of a little while. A retired man and newly a grandfather, much to broad delight. His wife, Margaret, and himself have three sons and a daughter. “We were waiting a while on the grandparents front,” he reveals. Then the characteristic smile: “There was no sign of anything. And then, all of a sudden, two buses came. They came within three weeks of one another. Liam was born in Vienna. Niadh, a granddaughter, was born in Kilkenny.” He will have time for things. There will be further trips to Belgium. Still absorbing wisdom, John Joe Cullen thinks back to that first one, the wish to sing at Michael Burke’s resting place: “We waited until the band were gone and the ceremony was over. We wanted to be respectful. And then we sang. “And this woman came over, with a folder under her arm, and I thought I was in trouble. She said: ‘Who’s doing the singing there?’ And I said it was me. She said: ‘You go home and join a choir!’ “And so…”

Salute for a Soldier And there you lie, one of three, Headstones together, yet you’re free, The battle over, fought and won With your comrades now as one. In these graves beneath this sod The wording says ‘known unto God’, But from this day, you have been found, Michael we salute you beneath this ground May the rain fall gently upon you.. John Joe Cullen Written in memory of Private Michael Burke (RDF), who died in Ploegsteert, Belgium, and is buried in Trios Arbes Cemetery, France

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Cinematic dance film featuring hurling and camogie legends to be showcased on giant LED screen at UPMC Nowlan Park Dedicated hurling fans gathering for the much-anticipated Kilkenny senior county hurling final on the October Bank Holiday Weekend are in for an extra treat this year. Fearghus Ó Conchúir’s cinematic dance film ‘All to Play For’ will be screened at the St Canice's Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship final at UPMC Nowlan Park on Sunday, October 25. The short film captures the raw power, energy and athleticism of former Kilkenny camogie and hurling greats Anne Dalton, Ann Downey, Liam Fennelly and Tommy Malone and embodies the pure skill and dedication of players nationwide in both codes. The dramatic short film was developed and shot in Kilkenny and is one of five community-rooted projects commissioned by Kilkenny County Council’s Public Arts Programme 2024-2027, and funded by the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage and Department of Culture, Communications and Sport. Featured hurler, Liam Fennelly, said: “The film captures the whole ethos of the GAA in that you are lucky to play for your county but you are

tion. “I’m thrilled that All to Play For will be screened to match audiences on a landmark weekend in the sporting calendar in Kilkenny. All four players featured are All Ireland medal winners for Kilkenny but that county success relies on the energy of local clubs and communities. “I’m grateful to all of the GAA and Camogie family across Kilkenny that inspired the film and helped us make it.” Kilkenny GAA Chairperson PJ Kenny said: “We’re delighted to welcome All to Play For to UPMC Nowlan Park on County Final day. Anne Dalton,

Ann Downey, Liam Fennelly and Tommy Malone have all made an outstanding contribution to hurling and camogie in Kilkenny, and it is wonderful to see their achievements and the spirit of our games celebrated in such a creative way. “Hurling and camogie are deeply rooted in communities throughout Kilkenny, and this film captures the passion, dedication and sense of belonging that make our games so special. We congratulate Fearghus Ó Conchúir and everyone involved in bringing this project to life.”

UPMC Nowlan Park

still very much part of your community. I am lucky to have played the game and I loved to win. I’m glad I did it all.” Mary Butler, Kilkenny County Council’s Arts Of-

ficer, said: “We’re delighted to see All to Play For being screened to a captive audience at UPMC Nowlan Park and hope those assembled enjoy this incredible piece of work that we were delighted

to support under the Public Arts Programme. It is highly recommended viewing.” Choreographer and dance artist Fearghus Ó Conchúir said he’s looking forward to seeing the public’s reac-

Liam Fennelly

Songs, stories and community spirit at grow mental health fundraiser St Canice’s Cathedral provided a spectacular setting on Saturday, 10 October, for a memorable evening of music, storytelling and community spirit in support of Grow Mental Health, marking World Mental Health Day. Over 300 people gathered beneath Peter Walker’s stunning installation of 10,000 white paper doves to enjoy an uplifting concert featuring acclaimed tenor Paul Byrom and the wonderful Cois Nore Choir. The Cathedral was transformed into a vibrant and welcoming venue, with Ray Brophy of Sound Out Communication working his usual magic to create an impressive visual and audio experience. The evening was a celebration of the power of music to bring people together, while also highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and the value of community-based support services. Christine Fitzgerald, a member of the Grow Mental Health Board, acted as MC for the night, while Grow member Daniel Coleman opened proceedings

with a heartfelt and personal account that brought the importance of understanding, compassion and support into sharp focus. A special highlight came when piper Tony Coy led the Cois Nore Choir into posi-

tion, followed by a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace, beautifully sung by Jim White under the guidance of Choir Master Adrian O’Keeffe. With wonderful performances, moving stories and a warm sense of togetherness, the

audience was treated to a night that was both entertaining and meaningful. The event also demonstrated what can be achieved when a community comes together behind a worthwhile cause. From the performers and technical team to those who contributed raffle prizes, provided sponsorship and helped behind the scenes, the concert was a tremendous team effort. Every contribution helped to raise funds and, just as importantly, increase awareness of Grow Mental Health and the valuable resource it provides within the community. Among the local elected representatives attending were Natasha Newsome Drennan TD, John Coonan, Séan O’hArgain and Eugene McGuinness. The success of the evening was a testament to the generosity, commitment and goodwill of everyone involved. A sincere thank you goes to all who supported the fundraiser, whether through their time, talents, sponsorship, raffle donations or attendance on the night.

As the evening concluded, the message was clear: by working together, communities can help break down the stigma surrounding mental health, encourage open conversations and support organisations that make a real difference to people’s lives. The concert was a fitting tribute to World Mental Health Day and a wonderful example of local community spirit in action.

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Gowran Little Theatre Irene Drennan, Linda Beala & Kevin Tynan

The Cast of The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley

Curtain rises tonight on Gowran Little Theatre’s latest comedy Michael Hayes Director

The curtain rises tonight in Gowran Parish Hall as Gowran Little Theatre presents The Two Loves of Gabriel Foley, a warm and hilarious comedy by popular Irish playwright Jimmy Keary. The production runs from October 16th to 19th and promises plenty of laughs, romance and confusion along the way. At the centre of the story is Gabriel Foley, a middle-aged bachelor farmer who lives with his acidtongued elderly mother, Aggie. Unlucky in love and with Aggie despairing of ever getting him out from under her feet, Gabriel’s fortunes appear to change when he meets the sophisticated Hazel Myers. Smitten, he even joins a rather posh local drama group in an effort to win her heart.But Gabriel hasn’t noticed that kind-hearted Chrissie McCabe, who regularly helps out at the Foley household, has feelings for him too. Before long, Gabriel finds himself caught between two very different women – and discovers that matters of the heart are rarely straightforward. The production is directed by

Michael Hayes, who has been involved in Kilkenny theatre for almost 30 years. Having previously directed two successful one-act plays for Gowran Little Theatre, Michael now takes the helm of his first full-length producClaire Henriques & Siobhán Maher

tion with the group. The cast features Kevin Tynan, Claire Henriques, Linda Beale, Irene Drennan, Alan Grant, Siobhán Maher, Clódagh Corrigan and Peter Madden.

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Homes & Gardens

Time to protect your plants GARDEN NOTE

Big ideas under one roof

Pexels.com

Oliver Wagenblatt

Gardeners in Kilkenny may need to take a few precautions this weekend as colder nights bring the possibility of the first autumn frosts. Temperatures could fall to around 2°C over the weekend, with clear skies increasing the risk of ground frost, particularly in sheltered rural gardens. Tender plants such as dahlias, begonias and geraniums are especially vulnerable. Pots can be moved into a greenhouse, shed or sheltered porch, while plants that cannot be moved can be covered overnight with horticultural fleece. Containers are particularly exposed to falling temperatures, so grouping them close to a house wall can offer some protection. Gardeners should also keep an eye on late crops, including courgettes and tomatoes, which are easily damaged by frost. Dahlia foliage will blacken after a hard frost, but the tubers can be left in well-drained ground with protection or lifted and stored somewhere frost-free. Remove fleece during the day to allow air to circulate.

Richer colours make a comeback HOME HACK Meyra

HOMES + GARDENS If you’ve been thinking about doing up the kitchen, tackling a long-overdue home improvement job or simply fancy picking up a few decorating ideas, the PTSB Ideal Home Show is worth a visit this weekend. The show returns to the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin from today (Friday) to Sunday, October 18, with more than 220 exhibitors offering advice, ideas and products for just about every part of the home. Whether you’re planning a major renovation or just look-

ing for a new colour scheme for the sitting room, there should be plenty to browse. Kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, furniture and interiors will all feature, along with the latest options for garden rooms and modular homes. With more people looking to make better use of the space they already have, these are likely to attract plenty of interest. Home heating and energy costs will also be on the agenda. Visitors can get advice on insulation, heat pumps, retrofitting and the grants available for making homes warmer and more energy efficient.

For anyone living in an older house, it could be a useful opportunity to ask questions and find out what’s involved before taking on a big project. There’ll be plenty for those who enjoy decorating too, with interior designers sharing ideas on colours, furniture and making the most of smaller spaces. Architect Dermot Bannon is among the familiar faces appearing over the weekend. The Outdoor Living and Garden area will offer inspiration for gardens and patios, while cookery fans can catch demonstrations from wellknown chefs Neven Maguire

and Donal Skehan. One of the advantages of a show like this is being able to see products up close, compare options and have a chat with suppliers, rather than trying to make every decision from a photograph or website. The Ideal Home Show opens from 10am to 5pm today and from 10am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Adult tickets cost €20 at the door, with online offers also available. Children under 12 go free. For tickets and further details, visit www.idealhome.ie.

Put down the secateurs GARDEN

White and grey walls may have dominated interiors for years, but warmer, richer colours are making their way back into our homes this autumn. Deep burgundy, earthy terracotta, olive green and chocolate brown are among the shades attracting attention, bringing a cosier feel to living rooms, bedrooms and hallways. The shift towards stronger colours is reflected in recent Dulux Heritage interiors coverage, with homeowners being encouraged to look beyond the familiar neutral palette. You don’t need to redecorate an entire room to try the look. Painting an alcove, a chimney breast or even a piece of old furniture can introduce colour without making a major commitment. Deeper shades can work particularly well alongside natural wood, soft lighting and textured fabrics. In smaller rooms, a darker colour doesn’t necessarily make the space feel cramped, provided the lighting is right. Before choosing a paint colour, it’s worth testing a sample on the wall and checking how it looks in both natural and artificial light.

If your garden is looking a little untidy this month, don’t be too quick to reach for the secateurs. Leaving some plants alone over winter could be one of the best things you do for garden wildlife. The traditional autumn clear-up often involves cutting back faded flowers, pulling out dead stems and raking up every last leaf. But a garden doesn’t need to be spotless to be healthy. Seed heads on plants such as teasels, sunflowers and coneflowers can provide food for birds, while hollow stems and dried vegetation offer shelter for insects during the colder months. Fallen leaves are useful too.

Leave them beneath shrubs or spread over flowerbeds, and they’ll help protect the soil and provide hiding places for beetles and other small creatures. They also gradually break down, adding organic matter to the ground. Ornamental grasses and plants such as sedum can look surprisingly attractive through winter, particularly on frosty mornings when their dried stems catch the light. That doesn’t mean abandoning the garden altogether. Diseased plant material should still be removed, and paths, steps and lawns may need clearing to prevent slippery surfaces or damage to the grass. But there’s no need to cut everything back simply

because the flowers have finished. For gardeners in Kilkenny, where autumn weather can quickly turn wet and chilly, leaving some shelter in borders can make a real

difference to overwintering insects. The secateurs will still be there in spring. In the meantime, a slightly untidy border might be doing more good than you think.

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Siege of Jadotville

Comdt Pat Quinlan, Commanding Officer of ‘A’ Company, 35th Infantry Battalion

The Siege of Jadotville: The battle, the men and the long fight for recognition

Special Kilkenny event to explore the extraordinary five-day stand of 156 Irish soldiers — and the decades-long campaign to restore their reputation The extraordinary story of the Siege of Jadotville, and the long campaign to ensure that the men who fought there received the recognition they deserved, will be explored at a special event in Kilkenny later this month. Hosted by Post 8 Irish United Nations Veterans Association, the event will take place at 7pm on Wednesday, October 21st, at the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. The Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Joe Malone, will be the principal host on the night. The evening will feature presentations from Comdt Leo Quinlan Retd, son of the late Comdt Pat Quinlan, Commanding Officer of ‘A’ Company, 35th Infantry Battalion, and Lt. Col Dan Harvey Retd, author of the new book Jadotville – Benchmark for Bravery. Also attending will be Major General Kieran Brennan Retd, a local man and President of the Irish United Nations Veterans Association. The event will also welcome Special Guest Tom McCaughren, former RTÉ Security Correspondent and author of The Peacemakers of Niemba. Event Coordinator Eugene Doyle said the evening will examine not only the extraordinary events of September 1961, but also the very different battle faced by the soldiers when they returned home. “This is both the story of how 156 Irish peacekeeping soldiers held off an attack by a greatly superior enemy over five days in September 1961 in the Congo, and of how, on their return home, they faced another battle to restore their reputation. “For decades, the men

of Jadotville were denied the full honour they deserved, their names clouded by institutional silence and the stigma of ‘surrender’. “The story of Jadotville did not end when the fighting stopped. For the veterans and their families, another battle began — the battle to ensure that the full circumstances of what happened were properly understood and that their courage was recognised.” Questions A central focus of the evening will be Dan Harvey's new book, Jadotville – Benchmark for Bravery. The book follows the long and determined campaign by veterans, families and supporters to bring the story into the open and press authorities to recognise acts which they believe met the benchmark for bravery. It sets out to address three fundamental questions: What brought ‘A’ Company to Jadotville in the first place? What exactly happened during the battle and in its immediate aftermath, when the soldiers became prisoners of war? And perhaps most importantly: Why was the Company's bravery and achievement ignored for so long? New information Comdt Leo Quinlan Retd will bring a particularly personal perspective to the evening. His father, the late Comdt Pat Quinlan, was the Commanding Officer of ‘A’ Company, 35th Infantry Battalion, during the Siege of Jadotville. Leo has continued to campaign for recognition of the men of ‘A’ Company and will present new information and previously unseen photographs from the Siege of Jadotville. His presentation will offer the audience a further insight into the

Former RTE security correspondent Tom McCaughren

men involved, the circumstances surrounding the siege and the events that followed. The issue of the recommended medals will also feature prominently. Lt. Col Dan Harvey Retd is the author of a number of books on Irish military history and overseas service, including Peacekeepers: Irish Soldiers in the Lebanon, Peace Enforcers, Soldiers of the Short Grass and Into Action: Irish Peacekeepers Under Fire, 1960–2014. His latest book, Jadotville – Benchmark for Bravery, examines both the battle itself and the long aftermath. Kieran Brennan The organisers are also delighted that Major General Kieran Brennan Retd, a local man and President of the Irish United Nations Veterans Association, will attend the event. Doyle said: “It

‘A’ Company at Jadotville 1961

Comdt Leo Quinlan Retd

is particularly fitting that Major General Kieran Brennan will be with us. “This is an evening organised by Post 8 IUNVA to remember Irish United Nations service, and having the President of the organisation with us adds greatly to the occasion. “There is a strong connection between Kilkenny and Ireland's military and United Nations history, and we are delighted that Major General Brennan will be part of the evening.” Special Guest Tom McCaughren The organisers are particularly honoured to welcome Tom McCaughren, former RTÉ Security Correspondent and author of The Peacemakers of Niemba. Tom has spent many years researching Ireland's military involvement in the Congo and brings a unique personal perspective to the evening. Importantly,

Tom met Comdt Pat Quinlan during his lifetime, giving him a direct personal connection with one of the central figures in the Jadotville story. Tom was also a close personal friend of the late Corporal Noel Hoyne for more than 63 years. Noel, a native of Clohogue, Clifden, Clara, Co. Kilkenny, passed away on August 28th, 2026. As a young Irish Army radio operator serving with the 33rd Irish UN Battalion, Noel was involved in the events surrounding the Niemba ambush of 1960, in which nine Irish soldiers were killed. His role in communications before, during and after the ambush was significant, and his story represents another important chapter in Ireland's early United Nations peacekeeping experience in the Congo. Noel's wife, Ellen Hoyne, will also attend the event. Tom will also give his perspective on Leo Quinlan's campaign for the recommended medals and on Dan Harvey's new book. “The men of Jadotville were young Irish soldiers serving their country and the United Nations. Whatever one's view of the subsequent history, their story deserves to be fully examined, remembered and understood.” Following the presentations, Leo Quinlan and Dan Harvey will take part in a Q&A session, giving members of the audience an opportunity to put their questions directly to them. Tea and coffee will be available on arrival.

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Food & Drink

Fragrant Red Prawn and Coconut Curry

Rachel Claire

RECIPE Freepik

€15m lifeline for rural pubs DRINK

Bring a little warmth and colour to your dinner table with this delicious Thai-inspired red prawn curry. Combining juicy prawns, creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices and fresh vegetables, it’s a comforting dish with just the right balance of sweetness, spice and tang. Ready in around 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a relaxed weekend supper or a quick midweek meal when you’re craving something a little more adventurous. Serves: 4 Preparation: 10 minutes Cooking: 20 minutes Ingredients • 400g raw king prawns, peeled and deveined • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • 2–3 tbsp Thai red curry paste • 1 onion, finely sliced • 1 red pepper, sliced • 150g sugar snap peas • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 tsp freshly grated ginger • 400ml coconut milk • 100ml vegetable stock • 1 tbsp fish sauce • 1 tsp brown sugar • Juice of 1 lime • A handful of fresh coriander • Jasmine rice, to serve Method 1. Heat the oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. 2. Stir in the garlic, ginger and Thai red curry paste. Cook for another minute, stirring continuously, until fragrant. 3. Add the sliced red pepper and sugar snap peas, tossing them through the aromatic paste. 4. Pour in the coconut milk and vegetable stock, stirring until everything is combined. Add the fish sauce and brown sugar. 5. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are just tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. 6. Add the raw prawns and simmer for 3-5 minutes until completely pink, opaque and cooked through. 7. Stir in the lime juice and scatter over the fresh coriander. 8. Serve immediately with fluffy jasmine rice and an extra wedge of lime. Kitchen tip: For a milder curry, start with one tablespoon of curry paste and add more to taste. For extra vegetables, try adding baby corn, spinach or sliced courgette. Serving suggestion: A sprinkle of chopped roasted peanuts adds a delicious crunch, while a few fresh chilli slices will give spice lovers an extra kick.

The local pub has been at the heart of village life across Kilkenny for generations, offering much more than a pint and a place to meet. Now, a €15 million Government support package is offering fresh hope to rural publicans struggling to keep their businesses afloat. Announced as part of Budget 2027, the funding is aimed at helping rural pubs cope with rising operating costs and challenging trading conditions, following years of closures across the country. From the villages of north Kilkenny to communities

around Callan, Thomastown and Graiguenamanagh, traditional pubs remain an important part of the social fabric. They are places where neighbours catch up, local stories are shared and community connections are maintained. But keeping the doors open has become increasingly difficult. Rising energy bills, insurance costs, staffing pressures and changing social habits have all taken their toll, particularly on smaller pubs that rely heavily on regular local trade. The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) has welcomed the Government’s announcement, describing the funding

as a much-needed vote of confidence in the sector. VFI chief executive Pat Crotty said the support recognised the enormous cost pressures facing rural publicans and the important role pubs play in sustaining local communities. However, questions remain over how the €15 million will be distributed and which businesses will qualify. Enterprise Minister Peter Burke has indicated that eligibility could be linked to turnover, with the scheme expected to be ready by July 2027. For many publicans, the concern will be whether the funding is sufficient to make a

meaningful difference against steadily increasing costs. More than 2,200 pubs have closed across Ireland since 2005, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing the industry. In rural Kilkenny, the loss of a pub can mean much more than another empty premises on the village street. It can mean losing a gathering place, a local employer and a familiar part of community life. The €15 million commitment is a welcome start, but the real test will be whether it helps ensure that Kilkenny’s rural pubs remain open for generations to come.

Get ahead in the kitchen with Pinch of Nom COOKBOOK If the daily question of what to cook for dinner leaves you feeling uninspired, the latest cookbook from bestselling duo Kate and Kay Allinson could be just what your kitchen needs. Pinch of Nom Meal Prep takes the stress out of everyday cooking with 100 brand-new recipes designed to save time, reduce food waste and make healthy eating easier, even during the busiest weeks. From grab-and-go breakfasts and satisfying lunches to comforting family dinners and tempting sweet treats, the emphasis is on delicious, slimming-friendly food that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Recipes include Apple Crumble Breakfast Pots, Hot Honey Halloumi Flatbreads and Chipotle Chicken served three ways, proving that planning ahead needn’t mean sacrificing flavour or variety.

The book explores clever approaches to meal preparation, including batch cooking, freezer-friendly dishes and preparing ingredients in advance for quick assembly later. There are also two practical weekly meal plans, one featuring lighter meals for two and another focusing on family favourites serving four. Handy ‘Power Hour’ guides show readers how to prepare four recipes in just 60 minutes. With easy-to-find ingredients, calorie and nutritional information, and alternative cooking methods for slow cookers and air fryers, this is a practical addition to any busy household’s cookbook collection. Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding a family or simply hoping to spend less time wondering what’s for dinner, Pinch of Nom Meal Prep offers plenty of fresh inspiration. Published by Bluebird/Pan Macmillan.

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What’s On

Your picks for this week TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK What to Watch: Whalefall opens in Irish cinemas today (Friday, October 16). Austin Abrams plays Jay Gardiner, a young diver searching the Californian coast for the remains of his father (Josh Brolin). When a massive sperm whale swallows him whole, Jay has just an hour of oxygen left to find a way out. Directed by Brian Duffield and adapted from Daniel Kraus’s novel, this survival thriller also stars Elisabeth Shue and Jane Levy.

Street Fighter ready for another round MOVIE The popular video game franchise Street Fighter is getting another live-action film adaptation, bringing familiar characters including Ryu, Ken, Chun-Li and M. Bison back to the big screen. Directed by Kitao Sakurai, the film is set in 1993 and follows estranged fighters Ryu and Ken Masters, played by Andrew Koji and Noah Centineo. The pair are recruited by the mysterious Chun-Li, played by Callina Liang, to compete in the World Warrior Tourna-

ment. As the competition unfolds, they become caught up in a conspiracy that forces them to confront their shared past. The cast includes several familiar faces from film, music and professional wrestling. Jason Momoa plays Blanka, rapper 50 Cent takes on the role of Balrog, and WWE stars Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes portray Akuma and Guile respectively. David Dastmalchian appears as M. Bison, one of the video game series’ best-known villains.

First released by Capcom in 1987, Street Fighter became a major success with the arrival of Street Fighter II in 1991. The game helped popularise competitive fighting games, introducing characters and special moves that remain familiar to players today. This is not the franchise’s first appearance in cinemas. A 1994 adaptation starred Jean-Claude Van Damme as Guile, alongside Raul Julia as M. Bison and Kylie Minogue as Cammy. Although poorly received by critics at the time, it subsequently developed a

cult following. The latest adaptation returns to the franchise’s 1990s roots, with a story built around the World Warrior Tournament and the relationships between its fighters. With its mixture of martial arts, established video game characters and an ensemble cast drawn from several areas of entertainment, the film is aimed at both existing fans and audiences unfamiliar with the games. Street Fighter arrives in cinemas today, Friday, October 16.

Ora Quartet brings musical contrasts to Kilkenny PARADE TOWER | SUN OCT 4 | 4PM MUSIC Music lovers are in for a treat when the acclaimed Ora Quartet brings its captivating programme, Contrasts, to the Parade Tower at Kilkenny Castle on Sunday at 4pm. Presented by Music in Kilkenny, the concert promises an afternoon of beautiful melodies, powerful emotions and striking musical contrasts, with works spanning more than two centuries. Formed in 2023, the Ora Quartet features four accomplished Irish-based musicians: violinists Siún Milne and Molly O’Shea, violist Ali Comerford and cellist Yseult Cooper Stockdale. The ensemble has quickly established a growing fol-

lowing, performing across Ireland and appearing on RTÉ lyric fm. The programme opens with Joseph Haydn’s String Quartet in F major, nicknamed The Dream for its peaceful, almost otherworldly slow movement. Audiences will also hear selections from Breathers, a contemporary work by Grammy-nominated Irish composer Alex Dowling. Inspired by meditation, the music explores the relationship between sound, breathing and concentration. A change of mood follows with Dmitri Shostakovich’s deeply moving String Quartet No. 11, written in memory of a close friend and fellow musician. The afternoon concludes with Robert Schumann’s

passionate String Quartet in A minor, a richly expressive work that builds towards a stirring finale.

Tickets cost €20, or €15 concession, and are available from www.musicinkilkenny. org.

What to read: Jack Reacher returns in Chain Reaction, the 31st thriller from Lee Child and Andrew Child, published on October 20. When a member of General Susan Turner’s team is murdered during a covert mission, she turns to the former military policeman for help. His investigation takes him to Summertown, Colorado, a remote settlement with five data centres, two solar farms and somebody watching his every move. Trouble is never far behind. What to stream: Paul Bettany returns as Marvel’s android superhero in VisionQuest, now streaming on Disney+ following its October 14 premiere. After escaping those who wanted to turn him into a weapon, Vision tries to piece together his identity. But a bounty on his head sends him on the run with a teenage boy who may be his son. James Spader returns as Ultron, whose influence threatens to complicate Vision’s search for answers. What to listen to: Irish folk singer Dan McCabe returns to Kilkenny’s Set Theatre tomorrow (Saturday, October 17), for the first of two concerts. McCabe found fame in 2020 when his online performances attracted millions of views. Since then, he’s enjoyed sold-out tours and chart success with his debut album, Back to Life. Known for his powerful renditions of traditional ballads, McCabe takes to the stage at 8pm. Tickets cost €40 per person attending. What to play: The vampirehunting Belmont family returns in Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse, released Thursday, October 15, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch and PC. Set in Paris in 1499, the game follows Rose Belmont, daughter of Trevor, as monsters overrun the city. Armed with the famous Vampire Killer whip, players explore Dracula’s castle, battle creatures including Death and Medusa, and unlock new abilities in this side-scrolling action adventure from Konami.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA LOTTO WINNING STREAK ENDS There was no winner of the Jackpot prize on 6th October, which means we didn’t get the three in a row. The numbers drawn were 13, 18 and 30. The usual €30 Lucky Dip went to Marty Moseley, Yvonne Kenny, Maurice Nolan, Eileen McGarry and Martina Firbank. Well done to them. Now let’s try get the three in a row wins. CONCERT Mike Denver and Philomena Begley will be giving it loads on December 3rd. in St. Mary’s Cathedral. Tickets on sale from committee members or online - https://sl1nk.com/getyourtickets Funds go to our Development Fund. Please share information or share our social media posts. Spread the word! IT’S TEA PARTY TIME! Save the date for the annual Camogie American Tea Party on November 6th., this gets better each year. Host a table or join a table but don’t miss it. More info to follow or enquiries to Eamonn Dunne, 087 922 7890. MEETING All Members are invited to a club Meeting on 30th Oct at 20.00 in the Club House, to discuss the Club Development Plans and Grant Applications. Hope to see you there. KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Role in Castlewarren: St. Scuithins Children’s Choir is looking for Volunteer Musicians to provide musical accompaniment on piano, flute or other suitable instruments. Volunteers will work alongside the Musical Director to support the children and create a positive musical environment. Volunteers are not expected to teach or manage the choir. No age restrictions for this role. Rehearsals take place at the Church of St Scuithin, Castlewarren. If you find a volunteering role that interests you, visit our site to register or applywww.volunteerkilkenny.ie or contact us by info@volunteerkilkenny.ie. U16 COUNTY CHAMPIONS Clara 2-12 Carrickshock 2-6 Clara finished strongly in the closing quarter to record a deserved win in the U16 championship played in Mullinavat on a blustery October afternoon. This match was very competitive for the first three quarters of the match after which Carrickshock led by a point, but Clara pressed for home afterwards and outscored their opponents by 1-5 to 0-1 in the closing quarter to claim this title. The elements were in Carrickshock’s favour in the opening half, and they received a tonic of a start when a long delivery from Sinead Butler ended up in the Clara net inside the opening minute. Clara were further unsettled by an unfortunate injury to Kate Mulrooney a few minutes later but led by the impressive Emily Phelan at centre forward, they knuckled down to the task and levelled the scores

at 1-0 to 0-3 by the 14th minute (two points from Emily added to a free by Lydia Phelan). Both sides traded scores from here to the half time whistle – Carrickshock had regained the lead at 1-3 to 0-4 by the 25th minute thanks to scores from Hannah Ryan, Ruth Foran and an Ivan Cahill free but Clara were competing well for possession all over the field and an excellent passing move in the 28th minute led to their opening goal after a goalmouth scramble and a follow up point from Laura Fitzgerald saw them lead by 1-5 to 1-3 at the break. Carrickshock to their credit raised their own performance levels in the third quarter and a scoring burst of 1-1 inside the opening four minutes of the restart pushed them back in front 2-4 to 1-5. Both sides traded points in the next ten minutes when the score stood at 2-5 (Carrickshock) to 1-7 (Clara) and a tight finish seemed in store with hard fought exchanges all over the field at this time. However a well taken goal by the impressive Lydia Phelan shortly after she had levelled the match in the 47th minute pushed Clara three points clear and this proved to be the catalyst for them to dominate the remaining time, their defence led by Shona Brennan was boosted by the introduction of Tara Boyd and further afield, the fine play of Emily Phelan, Laura Fitzgerald and Lydia Phelan saw them add further scores to emerge as six point winners at the end of the contest. Overall, a fine contest for long periods and a strong finish by Clara saw them through in the end. Clara: Eva Dreeling, Aine Bowden Mullen, Doireann Corr, Amy Breen, Amelia Ryan, Shona Brennan, Ella Tierney, Laura Fitzgerald, Katelyn Shortall, Kate Mulrooney, Emily Phelan, Emer O’Callaghan, Alice Kennedy, Olivia Power, Lydia Phelan. Subs: Sarah Mulrooney, Ellis Beatty, Claragh Roche, Laura Beatty, Emily O’Keeffe, Rose Kennedy, Roisin Moseley, Pearl Treacy, Tara Boyd, Tilly O’Regan. Carrickshock: Olivia O’Shea, Ella Tennyson, Grainne O’Shea, Laura Fahy, Croia Hickey, Aisling Rohan, Rebecca Lahart, Emer Rossiter, Sinead Butler, Ruth Foran, Kate Tennyson, Meabh Moylan, Hannah Ryan, Ivana Cahill, Hannah O’Dwyer. Subs: Elsie Lanigan, Chloe King, Ruby Moran. MINOR HURLING The Clara minor hurlers were eliminated from the championship by suffering an away defeat to a bang in form Glenmore outfit in Glenmore on Sunday afternoon. O’LOUGHLIN GAELS A BUSY WEEKEND The weekend just gone was a busy one for O’Loughlin Gaels teams as three hurling teams and one camogie contested championship games. There was disappointment for the Junior hurlers in the JJ Kavanagh & Sons Junior Hurling Championship semi-final in UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday

Action from the match between O’Loughlin Gaels and Graiguenamanagh.

as a very late goal and point from opponents Graiguenamanagh gave the Duiske men a 2-17 to 3-13 victory. It was a tough way to lose for O’Loughlin’s as they had led throughout the game up to the final minutes but well done to Graiguenamanagh and the best of luck in the final. (A full report of this match can be read in the Sports Section of this newspaper) The minor hurlers were in action on Saturday also against Danesfort and progressed to the championship semi-final thanks to a 2-21 to 3-9 win in the game played in Danesfort. It was not easy for the three O’Loughlin Gaels minor players who were also members of their club’s junior side to play two championship games within less than two hours of each other but credit to them for their performances in both games until fatigue forced their

withdrawal in the junior game. The Under-14’s made an exit from the championship when they lost out to the Rower Inistioge by 3-12 to 1-9 in Thomastown on Sunday morning. Hopes had been high going into the game, but a sub-par performance proved costly. Sunday also proved a disappointing day for the O’Loughlin Gaels camogie Under 16’s when they lost the St. Canice’s Credit Union Under16B final to James Stephens in Danesfort by 3-11 to 3-2. Well done to all the players and mentors for their work throughout the year and thanks to the supporters for travelling to games. Beidh Lá eile! CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated October 6th. The numbers drawn were 3, 6, 13 and 19 and the bonus number was 10. Play Now

O’Loughlin Gaels Under-12 camogie team and coaches on their recent trip to Emerald Park.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes

James O’Dwyer and Conor Geoghegan of St. John’s School who recently won the Kilkenny Central section of the Primary Schools Hurling Skills Competition.

at www.oloughlingaels.com Winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Noel Hickey c/o B Murphy. 2. Grace Loy c/o N Loy 3. Martina Tyrrell c/o N Tyrrell. 4. Jim Fennelly c/o The Bar. 5. Madison Cody c/o M Cody. 6. Ayla Dawson c/o P Carroll. 7. Aron O’Brien c/o G Buckley. 8. Rosemarie Kirwan c/o Online. 9. Pauline Murphy c/o Online. 10. James Kavanagh c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support. PRIMARY SCHOOLS HURLING SKILLS Well done to James O’Dwyer and Conor Geoghegan of St. John’s School on winning the Kilkenny Central section of the Primary Schools Hurling Skills Competition. The boys progressed after their win to represent the school in the final of the competition at half time of the County Senior Semi Final between Ballyhale and Thomastown last Sunday. EMERALD PARK O’Loughlin Gaels Under-12 camogie players enjoyed an end of season trip to Emerald Park in County Meath last week. The park includes the only permanent rollercoasters in the Republic of Ireland, a Frisbee ride, adventure playgrounds and an exotic Zoo. A few fears were conquered as the girls tackled Cú Chulainn and Na Fianna Force on a brilliant day out together. Thanks to all the coaches and parents who made it happen. FRESHFORD ON DOUBLE WINNING SIDE Well done to local girl Maria Brennan who was part of the Gaultiers camogie side who won the Waterford senior camogie county final on Saturday last. The girls had won the football final the previous week and Maria was also part of that team. They made history as they are the first ladies’ team to have won both football and camogie in the same year. Maria is daughter of Tony and Eileen Brennan Bohergloss Freshford and sister of St Lachtain’s star goalie Darren. Well done to all involved. POOL CHAMPS The final of the pool doubles took place in Kavanagh’s bar recently with Brian Power and Ollie Kenny overcoming their rivals Tommy Denieffe and Neil O’Connor in an exciting final with 48 participants taking part in the tournament. The Jimmy (Crowley) Brennan memorial cup and the Peter Dawson memorial shield single pool tournaments are now under way at present. DARTS A darts exhibition was be held in Farrell’s bar on Saturday night last with famous dart players John Henderson and Richard Burnett in front of a large attendance. Local enthusiasts took on the pair in challenges All proceeds on the night went to this year’s chosen charity Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Thanks go out to all those who supported the event the generous sponsors and all who donated or helped in any way. GAA At Lachtains minor hurlers faced Mullinavat in

the Roinn C championship quarter final in Pairc Lachtain on Sunday morning last and came out deserving winners on a final score of St. Lachtains 2-29 mullinavat 0-11. They have a weekend off next week before the semifinal game. The u6 boys finished their year with an outing to Tullaroan recently playing the hosts. The boys had a great year overall showing skill, determination, spirit and teamwork throughout. Friends and relationships being developed for a lifetime and the future looks bright for this bunch. Thanks to Tullaroan hurling club for their Hospitality CHARITY FUNDRAISER Kilkenny GAA and Camogie club are running a charity exhibition with North v South hurling and Camogie matches on October 31st at Nowlan Park. St Lachtain’s will be represented by one player on each team. Kavanagh’s bar at Lachtain’s GAA and Camogie clubs held a fundraiser in Kavanagh’s bar on Saturday night last and all proceeds on the night went to Cois Nore cancer support services and a big thanks goes out to all who supported or contributed for their generous support. LOTTO There was no jackpot winner in the weekly lotto last week. The lucky dip winners were. Brian Kennedy (€50) Chris McDonald and Trish Quinn (€25 each). Tickets are €2 and can be purchased online on Clubzap or you can get your paper ticket from the ticket sellers and the club thank all for their continued support. CAMOGIE Hard luck to st Lachtains u16 girls who were beaten by Tullaroan in the county final at Jenkinstown on Saturday last. CLOTHES COLLECTION Lachtains GAA and camogie clubs are holding a clothes collection on Saturday next 17th October. You can drop off bags up to Friday evening 6-8pm at the clubrooms. They will accept men’s women’s and children’s clothing, paired shoes, handbags, belts, soft toys and jewellery. No pillows or duvets please FRESHFORD FORÓIGE YOUTH CLUB Freshford Foróige Youth Club is currently looking for adult volunteers to help support its weekly youth activities. The club provides a welcoming and enjoyable environment where young people can meet friends, take part in fun activities and develop new skills. Weekly meetings are open to all young people aged between 12 and 17, with new members always very welcome. The club relies on the support and enthusiasm of volunteers to help ensure that the meetings continue to provide a safe, positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Anyone interested in becoming an adult volunteer, or young people looking for further information about joining, can contact Aidan Gleeson on 086 067 4485 or by email at aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie. Barry Flynn can also be contacted on 087 458 115. SOCCER NEWS Freshford town junior side were in action on Sunday and were beaten by a strong Deen Celtic side on a 3-0 scoreline. Training takes place each Wednesday evening and new members are very welcome, anyone interested in signing up can come along to the training field or contact the club secretary or the manager. The astro turf pitch is now open for bookings through sportskey online portal or contact the committee members or social media page for more details The U15 boys had an impressive 6-1 win over High-

view athletic at the weekend with goals from Max O’Neill (4) Fionn Condon and Tom Dalton BRIDGE Summer bridge continues each Monday evening in Threecastles hall (R95WK45) at 7.30pm new members are always welcome SPLIT THE POT Split the pot proceeds for the month of October are going to Freshford Foroige group. The winner of the first week’s draw was Harry Hughes, Nuenna Court who won €146 and this Week’s winner was Darragh and Rhea Cullen, Woodview who won €162. Foroige is a voluntary group for young people between the age of 12-17 and they meet each week. You are asked to kindly support this cause throughout the month. Tickets are just €2 and can be purchased in any of the local pubs or businesses. PARISH NEWS Masses each Tuesday and Friday morning in St Lachtains Church at 9.30am (unless otherwise stated) Mass on Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church every third Saturday evening. WEBCAM The mass webcam has been installed by Church Media Ireland. All masses in at Lachtain’s Church will be livestreamed through the webcam at Https// church media.ie/st-lachtains-church-frffreshford. OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941. RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio. NEWSLETTER The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours. MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla. VISITS Fr. Mark is happy to visit the sick and if you would like to receive a visit from Fr. Mark, you can contact him by phone or through the parish office. LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday, from 9.30am to 4pm, offering a warm welcome to everyone in the village. Whether you fancy a tasty homemade treat, a cup of coffee, or simply a friendly chat, why not call in, support your local café and catch up with friends and neighbours? The Loop is more than just a café, hosting a range of community activities that help bring people together and strengthen local connections. New faces are always welcome, both among customers and those willing to lend a helping hand. Volunteers are particularly welcome to help maintain and develop these valuable community services. If you would like to get involved, please phone 056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon. MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action

because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610 JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB U-16 CAMOGIE CHAMPIONS On Sunday morning the club’s U-16 camogie team completed a magnificent league and championship double when accounting for a strong O’Loughlin Gaels team 3-11 to 3-02 in the 2026 U-16 “B” camogie championship decider in Danesfort. Displaying a huge work rate and no little amount of camogie skill across all areas of the field the Village girls hit their opponents for two goals courtesy of Maura Barton in the first half to lay a solid foundation at 2-07 to 0-02 for the eventual victory. Throughout the 2nd half, in a determined bid to haul in the Village girls substantial lead, the O’Loughlin Gaels team produced a spirited display which yielded three goals but James Stephens responded scoring 1-4 in a thrill packed final in which every Village player played their part to secure the unique league and championship double. The winning panel included Mia Holden, Emma Larkin (0-01), Sorcha Larkin, Ellie Larkin, Ria Quinn, Jasmine Timmons McEneaney, Hannah Purcell, Daisey Coomey (0-02), Molly Ann Phelan (0-01) Emma Larkin, Caoimhe Egan (0-04), Aoileann Cantwell,(0-01),Molly Dunne (0-01), Maura Barton (3-01) and Katie Jane Murphy and panellists Saoirse Egan, Katie Maria Murphy, Freya Doyle, Mary Kate Parsons, Hannah Devine Caoimhe Quinn, Millie Davey, Holly Kelly, Roisin O’Shea, Maya Priror, Julie Ann Fitzpatrick and Ali McDonald (inj.). The management team led by John Murphy included Emer Larkin, Emmet Larkin, Tom Kinanne and Dermot Grogan deserve great credit for their coaching commitment to the panel and their emphasis on teamwork and support play over a long competitive season. Well done to all. INTERMEDIATE HURLING FINAL On Sunday afternoon next, for Village folk, all roads and pathways lead to UPMC Nowlan Park where the James Stephens hurlers will contest the Intermediate County final against The Rower-Inistioge for the honour of winning promotion to the senior ranks of Kilkenny hurling in 2027. Apart from the injured Niall Delaney the team mentors Jackie Tyrrell, Eoin Larkin, Fran Whelan and Matt Ruth Jnr., have a fit panel to select from and will be confident of achieving a positive result at the game’s end. Ironically for senior club members on both sides Sunday’s county final will evoke memories of the 1976 Kilkenny senior championship final between the same clubs. MINORS HURLERS EXIT A disappointing below par performance by the club’s minor “A” hurlers saw them fall to a heavy 2-18 to 0-16 championship Q-final defeat to Ballyhale Shamrocks on Saturday morning in Pairc na Shamrog. Showing their determination from the start, the home club hit the Village net after 10 minutes to lead by 1-01 to 0-02. A fine point on the run by Brion Walsh in the 11th minute was the only score recorded by a James Stephens forward other than the six points from frees by Andrew Brennan over the first half. The difference between the teams became obvious early in the game when the Village lads spurned two goal chances while the home team’s attack broke through for a second three pointer to stretch their lead at 2-05 to 0-05 lead at the 19th minute. Continuing their impressive point

U-16 CAMOGIE CHAMPIONS

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Community & GAA Notes scoring, Shamrocks extended their lead further at 2-10 to 0-07 at the halftime whistle. On the restart two points from the trusty caman of Andrew Brennan followed by a long range shot by Brion Walsh offered a fleeting hope of a James Stephens revival but the Shamrocks were always quick to respond with equal efficiency. Quality points from Ruairi Power, Rory Glynn and Conor Leahy reduced the deficit to five points at 2-12 to 0-13 at the 17th minute but failing to drive on it opened the door for the determined Ballyhale side to respond with a run of six points to the three points from Andrew Brennan over the final 13 minutes for a convincing 2-18 to 0-16 passage to the championship semi-finals for the Ballyhale lads. The only positive for the club was the heroic efforts of the six backs and midfielders in their determination to limit the scoring ability of the physically stronger Ballyhale Shamrocks lineup. A disappointing end to the season that promised a lot. U-14 SEMI-FINAL Sunday morning’s U-14 “A” county semi-final was yet another disappointment for the club as a stronger, better balanced, Mooncoin lineup ran out convincing at 2-16 to 1-11 winners at the final whistle. Under pressure from the throw-in, despite leading by 0-02 to 0-01 goalkeeper James Butler was forced into a brave save after 10 minutes but could do nothing minutes later when Mooncoin rattled his net for a 1-03 to 0-02 lead which they never lost. Battling to stay in the game through the accuracy of free taker Donal Power’s four points at 1-07 to 0-07, Mooncoin struck a telling blow when they goaled again from a long delivery on the stroke of half time for a 2-07 to 0-08 lead. All the while, the half backs Cathal O’Brien, Art Cowhig and Tommy Ryle had to perform at their very best, with solid help from Eoghan O’Connor, Luke Tyrrell and Conor Parsons to counter the lively Mooncoin forwards. Over the 2nd half, with the Mooncoin players gaining in confidence, only J.J. Fogarty, forwards Evan Downey, Donal Power and Ashton Maher were able to offer serious resistance as the southern club coasted to a deserved 2-16 to 1-12 victory. The Village goal came from a well struck 20-metre free delivered by Ashton Maher just before the final whistle. BEST WISHES We send best wishes for a speedy recovery to the club’s lion-hearted defender, Niall Delaney who misses out on Sunday’s county final due to a serious arm injury received in the recent quarter-final fixture. It has been a difficult year for Niall as this is the second long term injury he has suffered over the season. SYMPATHY Our sympathies are extended to the club’s weekly Lotto finance manager Gretta Kelly, Hawthorn Ave., the wider Kelly and Dowling families on the death last week of Gretta’s brother, Michael Dowling, 32 The Folly, Waterford. Michael passed away peacefully in his home with his family by his bedside. From a family with a strong GAA connection, Michael was elected president of the famous Erins Own GAA club in Waterford city in 2025 having given a life-long service to the club as a player in the 1950’s and subsequently as a club administrator. Following Requiem mass in The Sacred Heart Church, The Folly on Thursday morning, Michael was laid to rest in St. Mary’s cemetery, Ballygunner. “ Air dheis laimh Dei go raibh a anam dilis” CRANNCHUR (LOTTO) Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite: 9, 24, 28, 30. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir. An duaischiste don seachtain seo €10,000. Na mion duaisneanna €40: Michelle Madden, Jim Brennan, Mary Flynn, Ollie Kearney, Peter Murphy. Mar is gnath go raibh maith agaibh go leir as bhur dtachthaoicht. (As always, our thanks to all for your continued support)

drama after school! Please share this with any musicians you know. The film will be screened at the end of November and it’s going to be FAB! CHURCH NEWS October Stations are due now and can be handed in at masses. Thanks to all who have contributed so far. MASS TIMES Wednesday 10.30am. Friday 10.30am. Sunday 10.30am. Tuesday 7.30pm. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm. CARDS RESULTS 15th September. First Prize. John Nolan/John Davis, Nedie Walsh/Mick Fitzpatrick (11 games). Table Prize Declan Twomey/John Drennan 22nd September. First Prize Veronica Muldowney/ Jimmy Muldowney (15 games). Second Prize Richard O’Keeffe/Richie Proctor (11 games). Table Prize Toddy Skehan/Marty Hanlon 29th September. First Prize Brendan Malone/Richard O’Keeffe (11 games). Second Prize. Lar Gibbons/ Mickey Fitzpatrick (10 game). Table Prize Ricky Proctor/ Eugene Malone CARD NIGHT SPECIAL A special card night was held last week in support of the Women’s Refuge Centre, Kilkenny. LOTTO There was no winner of the Jackpot last week. The numbers drawn were 1, 8, 14, 27. Consolation Prizes went to, Anne Marie Moran, Bennettsbridge, Maria Dunne, Ballyreddin, Michelle Bolger, Gowran Road, Shangarry Syndicate, Brendan Minogue, Thomastown. GATHERING GROUP Members of the group are looking forward to their annual Christmas shopping trip. The venue this year is the Liffey Valley Centre. Discussion is also taking place regarding the Christmas meal. ART GROUP Things have settled into a satisfactory routine at the weekly classes. Artists have decided on their subjects for the next few months. Also in the pipeline is the Christmas Art Fest, which is taking place on Sunday, 29th November. More details to follow. The Christmas Card Project is now in place with cards in the local shop. The cards feature some local scenes and are the work of the artists and some local photographers. A number of new scenes have been added to the large range available. Thanks to the local businesses who have been stocking the cards for a good number of years, The Carlow Kilkenny Homecare team will share in the profits as usual. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the McKillen family on the death of Anne McKillen (nee Fitzsimons) Barrons Court, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny and formerly of Toomebridge, Co. Antrim. Anne passed away on 8th October 2026, peacefully, in the presence of family and in the wonderful care of the staff of the Barrow Ward at St. Luke’s Hospital. Beloved wife of Henry and much loved mother of Tracey, Harry,

Rose and Seán. Anne will be dearly missed by her loving family, daughters-in-law Claire and Angela, sons-in-law Shaun and Barry, adored grandchildren Florence, Harry Jnr., Emma, Oisín, Stephen, Conor, Ewan, Darragh and Oliver, her sisters and brothers, nieces and nephews, extended family neighbours and friends. Anne is predeceased by her parents John and Rosie Fitzsimons Anne lay in repose in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green on Friday last from 5pm to 7pm with prayers at 6.30pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated on Saturday morning in St. Bennett’s Church, Bennettsbridge. Interment took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. SYMPATHY Sympathy is also extended to the Holohan and Comerford families on the death of Mary Comerford (née Holohan) Tullohea, South Lodge, Carrick-onSuir, Co. Tipperary and formerly of Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny. Mary passed away on Sunday, 4th October 2026, surrounded by her loving family, in the care of the staff of Oak Ward, University Hospital Waterford. Predeceased by her parents Patrick and Margaret Holohan and her husband Pat. Sadly, missed by her sons Jim, Mark and Gavin, daughters-in-law Annette, Mags and Orla, her grandchildren Kate, Ben, Anna, Ella, Aidan, Ciara, Charlie, Ava and Ethan, her brothers John and Joe, sister Florence, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Reposal was at Brett’s Funeral Home, Mullinahone on Tuesday, October 6th, from 5.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Grangemockler, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. GAA Bennettsbridge seniors bowed out of the championship at the semi-final stage in Nowlan Park last Sunday after a three point loss to Tullaroan. Huge thanks to the panel of players and management for their efforts during this season. While the result didn’t go our way on Sunday the lads gave it their all and we can look forward to the future with optimism. Underage Games: Bennettsbridge minor team defeated Tullaroan away last Saturday in the championship quarter final. After a tough encounter we won out on a scoreline of 15 points to 1-10. Well done to all the lads. With our underage groups concluding their seasons around now, we thank all the coaches and players for their efforts during the year. SPLIT THE POT Our next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm. Thanks again for the support. SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN Bennettsbridge GAA club continues to provide an opportunity for businesses to advertise their products in its Pitch signage campaign. Thanks to all the

business owners who have supported the initiative so far. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey. GRAIGUENAMANAGH LOCALOTTO The numbers drawn were: 4, 17, 20, 2. There was no Jackpot winner. Consolation prizes of €30 went to Bernie McDonald.William Kielthy. Caoimhe and Fionn Hoolahan. Lukas Foley and Anna Dunne. HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC Halloween Camp 2026 is running on Monday October 26th to Wednesday October 28th (Must register before October 19th to have rain jacket in time) We’re happy to announce another fun filled Halloween Camp with a Highview Athletic/Joma rain jacket included all for just €50. To register, please use the following link and make sure to select the jacket size. https://highviewathleticfc.clubforce. com/products/membership Contact Dean on 085 835 9023 for further queries. We recently installed a coffee/snack shop in our clubhouse, open on most match days and the Saturday morning Academy slot. Pop in the next time you’re here and try the delicious Cloud Picker Coffee Roasters coffee as well as tea, hot chocolate, a selection of soft drinks and lots of delicious treats too! Looking forward to seeing you all soon! BARROW BUS After over 100 days on the road serving over 2,000 passengers, it’s farewell from the Barrow Bus! We are incredibly grateful to all the people, community groups and local businesses who gave this research project so much support. We thought there was no better send-off than the artwork done by the pupils at Skeoughvosteen NS, who used the bus for their summer programme, September day trips and outside of school with friends and family. This was the first bus service in Skeoughvosteen that anyone could remember, giving independence and connectivity to people young and old. We hope it will be back! GAA A great win for the club junior hurling team who defeated O,Loughlin Gaels to qualify for the county final against Conahy Shamrocks. After an extraordinary season and some nail-biting fixtures, our Junior Hurlers have earned their place in the Kilkenny Junior Hurling Championship County Final, a moment that fills everyone connected with Graiguenamanagh GAA with immense pride. This achievement is particularly special as it marks the first time since 1972 that a Graiguenamanagh Junior hurling team has reached a County Final. For generations of players, supporters, volunteers and families, the club has been at the heart of our community. To have the opportunity to create a new chapter in our history and to follow in the footsteps of those who proudly wore the jersey before us is

Barrow boys on the move

BENNETTSBRIDGE THE ’BRIDGE FILM Gillian Grattan has been working on a film with the people of Bennettsbridge about life in the village. The title is “Bridging the Years,” and some incidental music is needed for it. “We’d love it to come from the musicians in Bennettsbridge so if you play, sing, write, or compose, we’d love to hear from you! We are looking for. original pieces and compositions Songs and vocals. Traditional tunes and instrumentals. Anything that captures the spirit of Bennettsbridge, past and present, all ages, all styles, all levels welcome. Solo artists, bands etc... To get involved: If you have a recording, please send it to Gillian, at theatretada@gmail.com, along with your name and a little about what you play or have written. You can also find me at the community hall in Bennettsbridge on Tuesdays, where I teach

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Community & GAA Notes something we will cherish forever. All year, this group of players, together with their management and backroom team, have shown unwavering commitment, sacrifice and dedication. Countless hours of training, preparation and hard work have gone into reaching this stage. They have represented our Club with tremendous pride and have inspired our community every step of the way. Reaching a County Final is a tremendous achievement, but it also brings significant additional costs for the club. Match preparation, facilities, equipment, team expenses and the many logistical requirements associated with a County Final all place an added financial burden on the club. As a community-based and volunteer-led organisation, we are asking our members, supporters, former players, friends of the club and the wider Graiguenamanagh community to consider making a contribution towards these costs. There is absolutely no obligation to contribute. We fully appreciate the financial pressures that many individuals and families are currently facing, and we understand that not everyone is in a position to make a donation. Any contribution, no matter the amount, is entirely voluntary and will be sincerely appreciated. For those who can help, your support will go directly towards ensuring our players are given every opportunity to prepare for this historic occasion and towards helping Graiguenamanagh GAA meet the additional costs associated with reaching a County Final. More than anything, this is a time for our community to come together. Whether you contribute, attend the match, help in any way you can, or simply cheer the team on from the sidelines, your support means the world to the players, and everyone involved with the club. Thank you for standing behind this team and for continuing to support Graiguenamanagh GAA. All of you have been with us on this journey and we look forward to sharing what promises to be a very special day in the history of our club with all of you. Graignamanagh GAA. Ní neart go cur le chéile. There is no strength without unity. (A full report of the match between Graiguenamanagh and O’Loughlin Gales can be read in the Sports Section of this newspaper) Our Minor Championship campaign came to a disappointing close today in Dr. Tierney Park with a 2 point loss to Young Irelands GAA in the Championship quarter final. Having lost to the Gowran team at the start of the season, the Graig boys were on fire as they put on a display of hurling that showed the improvements made in fitness, skill and workmanship this year. Graig were a point up at half time Graiguemanagh 1:07 to Young Irelands 2:03. The fast paced game saw both teams trading points for most of the second half. Young Irelands were 2 points up with a couple of minutes left on the clock. Graig had the last play of the game and unfortunately failed to convert a free into a score. Full time score Graiguemanagh 1-14 Young Irelands 2-13. The future of the club is bright with these young Graiguenamanagh hurlers coming up the ranks. Thanks to their management team Jayo, Denis, Pat and Jim. Scores: Sean O’Grady 0-09, Rory Cleary 1-00, Padraic Hayden 0-03, Conor Foley 0-01, Hugo Tierney 0-01.

Congratulations to Claire English and JO’C on winning €50 each in the lotto draw of 5 October. The Halloween Soccer Camp will take place at 10am-1pm on 2th7-29th October for children aged 4-14. To register phone Conor 085 132 1589 or Ellen 083 432 1145. CHURCH SERVICES AND PARISH EVENTS Mass Times: Goresbridge: Saturday 7.30pm; Sunday at 10.00am. Paulstown: Sunday at 11.30am Weekday Masses. Goresbridge: 10am on Wednesday. Paulstown: Thursday, and Friday at 10.00am Church of Ireland, Sunday 18th October: Holy Communion at 10am in Shankill (Paulstown): Morning Prayer at Borris at 11.30am. CREATE AND UNWIND On Thursday 22nd October join Athena Brownrigg in the Community Hall Paulstown from 7-9pm for a relaxed and mindful few hours painting. Have a glass of Prosecco, Nosecco or a cup of tea and follow along as we create a beautiful Autumnal scene for your home. Everything provided just bring yourself! Limited numbers. Booking essential 087 947 4655. €30 per person. TALKING THE TALK “Cúpla Focal” is a welcoming Irish language conversation circle held every Friday at the Goodly Barrow Cafe. The gathering provides a relaxed and friendly environment where people can practice speaking Irish, improve their confidence, and meet others with a shared interest in the language and culture. Open to everyone from complete beginners to fluent speakers, the group focuses on informal conversation, encouragement, and learning through everyday chat. Whether you want to revive your school Irish, sharpen your fluency, or simply enjoy a social evening with fellow Giliberti, Cúpla Focal offers an enjoyable and supportive space to use the language in a natural way. DANCE CLASSES AT IONAD DARA, GORESBRIDGE. Join us at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge every Monday at 7:00 pm. Learn and enjoy a variety of dance styles, including Jive, Line Dancing, and all forms of Social Dancing. Class Fees, per call: adults: €10 secondary school Students €5, primary school students: Free and seniors over 80 free. Information, contact Declan on 085 708 9128. MENS SHED The next Men’s Shed gathering will take place Tuesday 22nd October, in the cabin at Paulstown Community Hall. New members are always welcome. GORESBRIDGE ONE-ACT DRAMA FESTIVAL This year’s festival will run on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (22nd-24th) October in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Nine drama groups will compete in two categories with three groups performing each evening showcasing the best of amateur drama in Ireland. Kilcumney Players will host the festival and the Main Sponsor is Red Mills with further support from Goresbridge Credit Union and Goresbridge Horse Sales. The festival is part of the Drama League of Ireland circuit which runs every autumn and Goresbridge is one of 23 festivals around the country this year. Tickets are €15 for adults and €10 for concessions. A season ticket (all 3 nights) costs €35 and a Friend’s Ticket (2 adults for all 3 nights)

is €60. Tickets are available at the door. Note that Thursday and Friday sessions start at 8pm while Saturday starts at 7pm. PAULSTOWN DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION The Annual Draw in support of Páirc an Phobail and the Community Centre takes place this month. See the Paulstown community facebook for more details. Tickets are for €10, 20 and 50 with prizes of €100, 200 and 300. Ticket must be returned by Wednesday 21st October) SPLIT THE POT Support Goresbridge Rural Development by taking part in Split the Pot. Entries are available in Maher’s and online. Simply scan the QR code or visit lottoraiser.ie. The winners of the draw on Sunday, 11th October were 1st Prize (€100): Jacquie Barcoe. 2nd Prize (€20): Brigid Kinsella. 3rd Prize (€20): Peadar the Painter. TAR ISTEACH The Tar Isteach Shop, Goresbridge, welcomes donations of bric-a-brac, including household items, unwanted gifts, toiletry sets, delph, dishes, and cutlery. All donated items should be clean and in good saleable condition. Quality handbags are also greatly appreciated, as are our customers. ST. PATRICKS BALLYRAGGET CAMOGIE ‘U14 ST. PATRICK’S CAMOGIE TEAM CROWNED COUNTY CHAMPIONS. Congratulations to the St. Patrick’s U14 Camogie

Captain Ella Cahill receives the U14 trophy from John Kavanagh, Kilkenny County Board, for St. Patrick’s Camogie club.

team, who were crowned County Champions on Saturday in Freshford after a fantastic victory over a strong Barrow Rangers side, winning on a scoreline of 6-05 to 4-06. Led by captain Ella Cahill, the girls displayed phenomenal work rate, determination and team spirit throughout the match, ultimately securing a welldeserved victory and bringing home the silverware! This success follows another fantastic achievement for many of the same players, who also won the U13 County Final back in August, defeating Blacks and Whites. It has been a brilliant year for these talented players! Match scores; Ella Cahill 1-3, Claire McEvoy 1-0, Clodagh Cahill 1-0, Freya Nealis 1-0, Jolie Callinan 1-0, Tara Kennedy 1-0, Brooke Fogarty 0-2. St. Patrick’s U14 Camogie Panel 2026; Fiadh Brophy, Joanna Ryan, Emily Butler Phelan, Hannah Lacey, Kate Kennedy, Nessa Hickey, Ava Malone, Ella Cahill (Captain), Brooke Fogarty, Clodagh Cahill, Claire McEvoy, Freya Nealis, Bella Bradley, Tara Kennedy, Chloe Delaney, Rachel Lawlor, Emily Lawlor, Jolie Callinan, Carrie Davin, Aoibhean Drennan and Caitlyn Malone. St. Patrick’s wish to congratulate all the players and their management team of Kieran Delaney, Laura Delaney, Kevin Malone and Tony Hickey on a wonderful achievement for the club.’ KILMANAGH WEEKLY MASS SCHEDULE October 17th – Killaloe. October 24th – Tulla. October 31st – Kilmanagh. CALENDAR 2027 Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh will be producing their annual Calendar again for 2027. Your business or organisation can be included amongst the advertisements for only €70. Please support this annual fundraiser. The calendar is distributed, for free, widely amongst the locality, and is a great way to spread the word. For details talk to Chris Doheny on 086 251 7030 or Eileen Lanigan on 086 373 9983. CHRISTMAS ACORN Christmas Acorn 2026 will be available in early December. If you have any items, photographs, stories, parish events etc. that you would like entered in this year’s edition please send in as soon as possible to lanigan.eileen@gmail.com or contact 086 373 99 83 for further information. CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies Group will once again host a Christmas Wreath Making workshop on Monday 30th November this year. This workshop is open to everyone; you do not have to be a member of the group to attend. All materials will be provided. There will also be mulled wine and festive nibbles available on the night. If you are interested in attending, please contact 086 373 9983 as numbers will be limited. COMMUNITY CENTRE Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh is available to hire for meetings, social occasions, etc. To check for time and date availability contact

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN ACTIVE RETIREMENT Meetings and activities have resumed. The upcoming meeting is on Thursday 29th October at Paulstown Community Hall (R95 NY93). BARROW RANGERS There was no Match 3 or overall winner for the lotto on 6th October. Barrow Rangers are inviting everyone to come along for an exciting night of entertainment at their Greyhound Race Night on Friday, October 30th, starting at 8pm. It promises to be a great social occasion, with plenty of fun and excitement as racegoers get behind their favourites. Gather a few friends, enjoy the atmosphere and support Barrow Rangers in what should be an enjoyable night for the local community. Admission is just €10, making it an affordable night out for everyone. Your support will be greatly appreciated, so mark the date in your diary and come along! BRIDGE UNITED Tom Healy

U14 St. Patrick’s Camogie Club Champions

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Community & GAA Notes booking officer Tom at 086 315 1573. HALLOWEEN DISCO Halloween Disco will be held in Ballycallan Hall on Friday 23rd October from 6pm to 8pm. €5 per child entry. Fancy Dress and plenty of tricks and treats available at our tuck shop so bring your change along as all funds raised are for our school. Little Spooks must be accompanied by an adult. TRACTOR RUN Callan Tractor Run and Vintage Vehicles (cars, trucks, tractors) will take place on Sunday 25th October at 1pm from the Fair Green, Callan in aid of Mount Carmel Nursing Home. Vehicles can gather from 12 noon. Raffle and prizes on the day. This is a family friendly community event. All are welcome. ACTIVE LADIES CLUB Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies meet on Monday evenings from 7pm – 9pm. New members are always welcome. If there is any event or occasion happening in the community and you need some extra help, please contact us as we will always have some people available to help. Contact 086 373 99 83 for further details. LOTTO Results for 5th October. Numbers drawn were 7; 13; 23; 30. There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners were Keelan Lynch, Ger Ronan and Philly Doheny. Sellers’ Prizes went to Michael Teehan and Pat Comerford. RIVER RANGERS HALLOWEEN PARTY River Rangers will hold a Halloween Party on Sunday 25th October in Ryan’s Bar, Kilmanagh. Fancy dress, all are welcome. Prizes for best dressed. Raffle will also be held on the night. Saddle up for a Spooktacular Night of music, fun and fundraising. VOLUNTEERING Macnas is looking for Volunteers (Lighting Operators and Float Pushers) to help bring the magic of Halloween to Kilkenny this year. Volunteers will support Cailleach, a spectacular street procession inspired by Kilkenny’s witch trial history, by illuminating performers or helping push a large puppet float. The event takes place on Saturday, 31st October 2026, from John Street to Canal Square. The volunteer gathering time is 5pm, with the performance starting at 6:30pm. No previous experience is required. Volunteer Knitting and Crochet Tutors are needed to teach basic knitting and crochet skills to Transition Year students at a local school, helping them create baby blankets and hats for donation to a local hospital. No teaching experience is required. Volunteers are needed Thursdays, 9am–11am, for approximately six weeks. St Vincent de Paul (SVP) is looking for Home Visitation Volunteers to provide practical and emotional support to people experiencing difficulties. Volunteers visit people in pairs, listen to their needs and help identify suitable financial or practical assistance in a confidential and non-judgmental manner. Mandatory training is provided, with a commitment of two hours per week for a minimum of one year. Kilkenny Mens Shed is seeking a Volunteer Woodwork Tutor to deliver basic woodwork workshops for its members in a friendly and supportive environment. The role involves sharing skills in furniture restoration or small-scale woodworking projects. This opportunity requires appr. three hours per week, with all materials provided. If you find a volunteering role that interests you, visit our site to register or apply www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or contact us by info@volunteerkilkenny.ie. 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. GALMOY WINDGAP GAA Galmoy Windgap had two early-morning outings to the impressive Tom Walsh Park in Skoughvasteen over the weekend to play in the under-14 and minor hurling county championship quarterfinal games. Travelling from the far north and southwest of the county, both games attracted good attendances. After over two hours of hurling, it resulted in a win apiece after two interesting games that had lots of skill on view. The results saw the Blacks and Whites U14s and the Galmoy Windgap minors progress to the semi-finals. The only common denominator was the side that got the first score, despite being reined in immediately, went on to take the spoils. BRIDGE NEWS There was a good attendance at the Kilmoganny Bridge Club AGM. The outgoing President, Helen La-

nigan thanked all the members, the committee, and all who helped make the year such a huge success. It was a very enjoyable year’s bridge. Elected were President Liz McCarthy, Vice President Breda Butler, Secretary Philip Brennan, Assistant Secretary Tina Ronan, Treasurer Kitty Meagher, Assistant Treasurer Tina Ronan, Ex Officio Helen Lanigan. Recent results were Joint 1st. Liz McCarthy and Margaret O’Shea, Josie O’Gorman and Philip Brennan. 3rd. Mary Lonergan and Noreen Kenneally. Bridge is held every Wednesday night at 7.20pm in St. Eoghan’s Centre. Visitors Welcome. SPLIT THE POT Haley Stansbridge was the winner in the Windgap GAA and Camogie Club Split the Pot Draw on Friday evening and received €187.00. SCÓR INVITATION A fantastic opportunity for the young members to showcase their talents and celebrate Irish culture through song, music, dance, quiz, and performance is offered by the Scór na nÓg competition which takes place on Wednesday 4th November in O’Loughlin Gaels Lounge at 7pm. The competitions for county medals and a Leinster semi-final place include the Table Quiz (team of 4) and Stage Competitions (Solo Singing, Ballad Group, Music Group, Recitation, Novelty, and Dance Team). For further details, contact Shane at 087-6227603, email IrishCulturalOfficer.kilkenny@gaa.ie or visit https:// www.gaa.ie/the-gaa/cultur-agus-gaeilge/scor LINE DANCING Line dancing classes have resumed in Tullahought Community Centre on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 8pm. If anyone would like to attend the classes for beginners or improvers, please contact Joan at 086 1024892. KILMACOW KILMACOW HERITAGE The Graveyard Working Group will continue its maintenance work at Dunkitt Graveyard from 2.00pm on Saturday, 17th October. All offers of help will be welcomed. TABLE QUIZ The 25th season of the monthly table quiz series in the Fox’s Den began on Monday, 5th October with Kilmacow Home Energy hosting the first one for this season. This 183rd quiz in the series was won by John, Seán and Colm O’Callaghan with James O’Neill. The running total for the amount raised to date now stands at €118,786. The next table quiz on at 8.00pm on Monday, 2nd November is in aid of Kilmacow Camogie and LGFA. All support welcome. CLEAN UP Volunteers gave their time to help clean up around Kilmacow over the last weekend of September. Their efforts made a difference to the roads and verges as the place looked cleaner and more welcoming for everyone. CAKE SALE Kilmacow Hospice Support Group would like to thank everyone who supported the Cake Sale held in the College (Parish Office) on Sunday. The amount raised, €977.60, has been transferred to the Hospice Movement based in the Southeast Palliative Care Centre at University Hospital Waterford. KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 3, 4, 19 and 27. There was no winner of the Jackpot which goes to €5,400 for next Thursday night. SPRAOI This new grant management system for the Community Sport Facilities Fund is live. Clubs that are not already registered on the new SPRAOI system may now do so. Clubs already registered on the OSCAR system have had their registrations automatically transferred to the new system but are encouraged to check their information for accuracy. Any first-time registrations are encouraged to check their status online by visiting www.gov.ie/ sportscapital and, if they require specific guidance, to e-mail sportscapitalprogrammes@ccs.gov.ie. COFFEE MORNING Mooncoin Cancer Support Group will host a Coffee Morning in the Parish Hall on Saturday morning, 17th October. All support welcome. MULLINAVAT RAMBLING HOUSE Mullinavat Community Centre will host its monthly Rambling House at 8.00pm on Saturday, 17th October. Everyone is welcome to attend this most enjoyable evening of music, song, recitation, stories and dance. MULLINAVAT LOTTO The winning numbers in the lotto on Monday, 5th

Listening attentively in Rosbercon during the Tullogher Rosbercon Mystery Tour

October were 15, 17, 19 and 27. There was no Jackpot or Match 3 winner. TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF DOCTOR’S PRACTICE Dr. Ronan Cleary’s practice has been relocated to Ferrybank Primary Care Centre for the duration of works at the Health Centre in Mullinavat. The Practice hours will remain the same and likewise the telephone number, 051 511834, will remain unchanged. SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL PROGRAMME St. Beacon’s National School has been included in the next phase of the Safe Routes to School Programme. This Programme was launched in 2021 and all schools in the country were invited to take part. It is a Department of Transport initiative supported by the Department of Education. It is operated by An Taisce in partnership with the National Transport Authority and local authorities, including Kilkenny County Council. Three other primary schools from Callan, Cuffesgrange and Johnswell and one secondary school from Thomastown were included in this phase. MYSTERY TOUR This year’s South Kilkenny Historical Society Mystery Tour was led by Luke and Máire Grennan and explored some of the historical faces and places from the past in the parish of Tullogher Rosbercon. The tour began at Listerlin Primary School where Luke spoke about the schools located in the parish in times past and he quoted from reports on the conditions which prevailed. He recalled the economic activity and infrastructure in times past and today. He remembered a Garda speaking about a day when he was put on duty in Listerlin and asked to stop any traffic which passed through the village, a total of two vehicles, between 9am and 5pm, the local creamery lorry and Dr. Fitzgerald of Rosbercon. Luke also mentioned the current economic status of Listerlin and commented very favourably on recent efforts to improve the local area. The group then moved to St. Moling’s Well, where Máire gave a detailed account of the life of the saint, from his birth in Kerry, his time in the parish, and his life in the Diocese of Ferns. She spoke about the well, the alder tree which is reputed to protect property from fire, and the efforts of locals to preserve the site. Máire also spoke about the pattern, which is held on the feast of St. Bernard, 20th August, not on St. Moling’s feast day. If August 20th does not fall on Sunday, the pattern is held on the next Sunday following. Tullogher church was the next stop, where some features were pointed out, including the inscriptions, in Irish, on the stained-glass windows. Tullogher was one of the churches in South Kilkenny burned down in 1798. The old cemetery in Listerlin was the next stop where a number of graves and features were pointed out and some events of the past recalled. From there the group moved to Rosbercon village where the location, in the past, of the railway station, shops, old bridge, and public houses were pointed out. Shanbogh cemetery was the last place to be visited. This cemetery is the resting place of the late Victor O D Power, of Kitty the Hare fame. Thomas Victor O’Donovan Power was born in 1860. He became a well-known writer and wrote a number of supernatural short stories in Ireland’s Own and Our Boys. His best-known character was ‘Kitty the Hare: The Famous Travelling Woman of Ireland’. Kitty the Hare was introduced in 1914 and is still being published today, in Ireland’s Own. RUAILE BUAILE The five-piece traditional music group will appear

in the Community Centre, Mullinavat as part of the fund-raising initiatives for an astro-pitch on Saturday, 7th November. All support welcome. SMALL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS NATIONAL PLAN The consultation documents are available at www. water.ie/smallcommunitiesww. Submissions from public, community groups, environmental organisations, local authorities, business representatives etc. can be made by e-mail to smallcommunitiesww@water.ie or by post to Small Wastewater Treatment Plants, National Plan, Enterprise Fund Business Centre, Ballyraine, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 AF43 by Tuesday, 20th October. TALK ON THE LEAVING CERTIFICATE The next South Kilkenny Historical Society event, a lecture by Eoin Walsh on ‘100 Years of the (Dreaded) Leaving Cert, takes place in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church) on Friday October 30th. The speaker will be well known historian Eoin Walsh and it begins at 8pm. Admission is €5 for non-members. Everyone living in Ireland today has heard of, if not sat, the dreaded Leaving Certificate. It has recently passed a milestone of 100 years of existence. But how did it come about? And why do we still get nightmares about it as adults? ROUNDERS Mullinavat GAA is trying to gauge the interest locally in setting up GAA Rounders. The initial aim is to introduce a recreational and social rounders programme, aimed at adults, providing an opportunity to get involved in the club in a social manner. Please contact Breda Maddock on 087 969 4420 to express an interest in the idea. FERRYBANK GREENWAY UPDATE A car park facility, which is part of the North Quay project, has been made available by Waterford City and County Council to those using the Greenway. There will be no charge for the moment, but a parking charge may be payable at a later stage. The detailed design for the link road from the Belmount Roundabout to the Abbey Road together with the Trailhead Car-Park for the Greenway has been completed for this section of the project. ROAD UPGRADE Work on the resurfacing of the Slieverue Roundabout began on Thursday, 8th October. A traffic management scheme, including a STOP/GO system, will be in operation and motorists are advised that delays may be expected. The detailed design report on the N29 Port Road has been received from the TII and the Part VIII planning process is anticipated soon. NORTH QUAY PROJECT The Further Information requested from Hopcast Ltd on modications to a previous planning permission was received by Waterford City and County Council on 29th September. A decision on the application, following receipt of the further information, is due by the 26th October. PINK ROCK CYCLE LOOP AND AMENITY TRAIL Particulars of the proposal are available on the Consult Website, and at the Council Offices in Ferrybank Shopping Centre. Submissions can be made online at https://consult.kilkenny.ie or by post to Tim Butler, Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, Kilkenny by Friday, 23rd October. BUILT CONSERVATION GRANTS Three built heritage schemes are now open for applications: Built Heritage Investment Scheme which provides support of between €2,500 and €50,000 to assist the repair and conservation of historic buildings

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Community & GAA Notes and structures. The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th October. Historic Thatch Buildings offers assistance to protect the heritage value of historic thatched buildings, including dwellings and other structures. The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th October. Historic Structures Fund offers grants from €5,000 to €200,000, up to 50% of eligible costs for projects which show a clear community benefit. The closing date for applications is Friday, 27th November. Please contact the Heritage Section of Kilkenny County Council for more details. JOHNSTOWN OFFERINGS The October offerings for the support of the priests are now due. COMMUNITY HALL The results of the 500 Club draw for October 1st. Paul McDonald, 2. Brigid Walsh, 3. Kevin Murphy, 4. Una Norton, 5. Majella Moriarty. Next draw Wed. November 4th. JUNIOR CERT A big well done to all the students at Coláiste Mhuire on their excellent Junior Certificate results. Their hard work, dedication and commitment have clearly paid off, and they can be very proud of their achievements. Congratulations also to the teachers, parents and families who supported them throughout their studies. Best wishes to all the students for continued success in the years ahead. HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS FUN IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY There will be plenty of Halloween fun and entertainment in the coming weeks, with fancy dress parties and a special children’s disco planned for the local community. McCarthy’s Bar will host an Adult Halloween Fancy Dress Party on Saturday, October 31st, starting at 10pm. Everyone is invited to dress up for what promises to be a great night of fun, music and entertainment. There will be a prize for the best costume, so get creative and start planning your Halloween outfit. Music on the night will be provided by DJ Tracey Edwards, ensuring plenty of entertainment for everyone. Earlier that same day, children can enjoy their own Halloween celebrations at the Kids’ Halloween Disco in McCarthy’s Bar from 5pm to 7pm. There will be a prize for the best Halloween costume, along with goodies and lots of games to keep the youngsters entertained. It promises to be a funfilled occasion for children to enjoy the Halloween spirit with friends. Meanwhile, McGuire’s Pub in Galmoy will host a Fancy Dress Party on Saturday, October 24th, from 9pm. There will be prizes for the best-dressed participants, with music provided by Brian and Figs. Admission is €10, and all proceeds from the night will go towards the replacement of the roof on the community hall. It is a great opportunity to enjoy a night out while supporting an important local community project. With costumes, music and plenty of Halloween atmosphere promised at both venues, there is something for everyone to look forward to. SPA UNITED AFC Results for the week Youths league division 2 Callan 0 Spa 0, U15 boys league division 2 Spa 1 Thomastown 6, U13 girls league division 1A Lions 3 Spa 4, U12 boys league division 1A Lions 5 Spa 0. SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers 2,7,9,27 produced no jackpot winner. There was 7 match threes Beardy Tobin, Mary Garrett, Michelle Carroll, Lorraine Kenny, Ger Tynan, Nicola and Aoife Kenny and Christine Hickey. THE MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE There is a free SNA course for Level 5 and 6. Free Every Monday and Wednesday morning from 10am to 1pm, spaces are still available and it’s free. The Knitting and Crochet Circle Christmas Fair will take place at The Mill Family Resource Centre on Friday, December 4th, from 11am to 1pm. There will be a wonderful selection of handmade items available to purchase, including beautiful blankets, dolls, teddies and a variety of festive Christmas creations. It promises to be a great opportunity to pick up something special while supporting the talented members of the group. The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to be an important hub for the local community, providing a wide range of services, supports, activities and opportunities for people of all ages. The Centre offers a warm and welcoming place where people can meet others, learn new skills, improve their wellbeing and enjoy a friendly social environment.

A Local Training Initiative (LTI) Programme will be starting shortly. The free programme includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable practical skills which can help improve confidence, independence and employment opportunities. A wide range of courses is available through the Centre, including SNA QQI Levels 5 and 6; Childcare and Computing QQI Level 4; Early Learning and Care Certificate and Advanced Certificate QQI Level 5; LTI QQI Level 4; Office Administration and Payroll QQI Level 5; and Basic Computers. Anyone interested in finding out more about these courses, including application details, is encouraged to call into The Mill Family Resource Centre or contact the Centre directly. The popular Youth Club has also returned and takes place every Wednesday evening from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. The club is open to young people aged 10 to 12 years and provides a great opportunity to meet friends, enjoy activities and have some fun in a safe and welcoming environment. Hot news from The Mill Family Resource Centre is that the Thursday Club is being revived and reenergised! The club is looking forward to welcoming back old members while also encouraging new members to come along and join in the fun. A great selection of activities is planned, including art, crafts, chair yoga and music, with, of course, plenty of time to relax and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. The Thursday Club meets every Thursday afternoon at 2pm at the Mill Centre. It is a great opportunity to get out, meet people, try something new and enjoy a friendly afternoon in good company. Everyone is welcome, and the organisers are particularly looking forward to meeting both new and old members. Simply call into the Centre or contact Sue or Josephine for further information. There are also plenty of bargains to be found on the Centre’s clothes rail, so why not drop in and see what is available? But don’t go on Thursdays, they will make you do chair yoga. For further information on any of the activities, courses or services available at The Mill Family Resource Centre, contact 056 8838466. GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 1pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening. MISSION SUNDAY Mass for Mission Sunday on October 18th will be broadcast live on RTE 1 from Thurles Cathedral at 11am. Everyone is welcome to attend. LAY LED LITURGY Lay Led Liturgy with Holy Communion will be held weekly during Fr Walton’s Sabbatical Glengoole Church every Wednesday at 9.30am followed by Eucharistic Adoration Gortnahoe Church every Thursday at 9.30am followed by Eucharistic Adoration 400 CLUB DRAW The results for September 400 Club Draw. 1st prize €200, Martin Brennan, Glengoole, 2nd prize €100, Grace, Abbie and Rian McMenam, Ballynonty. Other prize winners were Marie Fitzgerald, Glengoole, Mary Purcell, Aubrey Road, Mark Sullivan c/o Mary McGivern, Martin and Ann Campion, Fennor Hill, Cathriona and Nicky Tobin, Grange, Toni Corbett, Mellison, Bobby and Mary Barnaville, Rathbeg, Larry Tierney. Promoters prize winner was Mary McGivern DATE FOR YOUR DIARY The Hall Committee has announced the following events. Halloween special bingo 24th October, Christmas draw in support of the hall will take place on Sunday 20th December and there will a special

bingo held on St. Stephen’s Day at 4pm. PILATES WITH RUTH Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water. WALK-IN Walk-In Flu and Covid Clinic (for patients over and under 65) on Friday, 23rd October at 2pm in Gortnahoe Health Clinic. GLENGOOLE NS Glengoole NS are holding a Fundraising Clothes Collection on Thursday, 22nd October. Support would be very much appreciated. GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. Please continue to support us this Saturday and every Saturday. It is a great afternoon’s entertainment. DANCE CLASSES Dance Classes: Learn to jive, foxtrot, waltz, etc in Gortnahoe Hall at 8pm on Thursdays, starting this Thursday, Sept 17th. €10 pay as you go. Contact Sally at 087-7931308. TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. Former members would be very welcome to come on the Tuesday night and if you would like to join or find out more information, please contact this number 089 434910. CONAHY HURLING The junior hurlers made a thrilling comeback to defeat John Lockes and qualify for the JJ Kavanagh Premier Junior Championship County final after a nail biting semifinal in UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday evening last. The locals were four points down with ten minutes to play, but a goal from Thomas Rice followed by a series of points from Edmond Delaney, Karl Downey, Tom Phelan and James Bergin saw Conahy win out by 1-21 to 1-18. Conahy will now face Graignamanagh in the county final on Saturday week, October 24th, at 3.00 p.m. in UPMC Nowlan Park. Well done to all involved on a great result and many thanks to everyone who came to support the team on Saturday. TEAM: Pádraic Delaney, Padraig Gunner, Philip Cass, Darragh Horgan, Ciaran Rice, Darragh Hennessy, Liam Cass, Jack Rhatigan, Edmond Delaney, Patrick Kennedy, Tom Phelan, Thomas Rice, Eoin Cahill, James Bergin, Mark Gunner. Subs.: Karl Downey, Rob Ring. (A full report on this match is available to read in the Sports Section of this newspaper) The minor hurlers made it an even more successful weekend on the playing field when they also had a great victory over Lisdowney in the Kilkenny Vehicle Centre Roinn B quarter final on Sunday evening last in Lisdowney. Despite losing to the same opposition a few weeks ago in the league stages and also having three players who lined out with the junior team twenty four hours earlier, Conahy produced an excellent performance to win out by 1-24 to 1-18. They will now face St. Martin’s in the county semifinal, on Saturday at 11.00 am in Canon Kearns Park. TEAM: Neil Webster, Mounir Zouaoui, Tadgh Hennessy, Bobby Dooley, Finn Sherman, Jack Rhatigan, James Byrne, Rory Rhatigan, Darragh Horgan, Rory Sherman, Patrick Kennedy, Jack Buggy, M.J. Buggy, Joe Boland, Billy Rowe, Padraig Quinn, Brian Phelan, Camryn Kenehan, Brian Tierney, Mikey Hurley, Jack Gamble, Ben Byrne. CAMOGIE

The junior D camogie girls are in action on this coming Saturday morning at 11.00 a.m. when they travel away to face Blacks and Whites in Tom Walsh Park in the Junior D championship quarter final. Best of luck to all involved. ASTROTURF PITCH OPENING Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club will officially open their new Astroturf Pitch on Friday week, October 23rd. All members, families, friends and supporters are invited to attend. This is a family-friendly event and a great opportunity for our younger players to be part of a memorable day in the club’s history. GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 6, 11 and 40. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Emily Kennedy; John Gleason; Killian Lacey; Tim, Rose and Annie Joyce and Liz Deevy. The promoter prize winners were Mona Dooley, Julie Jackman and Helen Cahill. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto. CONAHY NS Conahy National School is now accepting enrolments. For further information, please contact 0838074253 or email colmanconahy@gmail.com. The school will host an Open Evening on Wednesday next, October 21st from 6.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. All are welcome. Also, the school is in the final two schools for the Lidl Green fund in Kilkenny. Please support our small school and vote for us using the Lidl Plus App. Voting runs from October 15th to October 22nd, all support would be greatly appreciated. NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat. Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@gmail.com. Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory. ie. Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m. HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY, HUGGINSTOWN House No. 5 is now vacant. Any elderly person who is interested in applying please contact the Secretary, Lily Burke, Croan, Dunamaggan, Co. Kilkenny. Tel. 056 776 8008. for an Application Form. NOVEMBER REMEMBRANCE MASSES Mass for all who have died in our community during the past year will be celebrated on Saturday 7th. November in both Stoneyford and Hugginstown. OCTOBER STATIONS The October Station Envelopes 2026 are available at the Church Porch. Your contributions are for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. Your envelopes can be left into the Collection Boxes at the Churches, or you may donate directly - Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). CHURCH SAFEGUARDING If you have a child safeguarding concern or wish to raise a matter from the past you may contact: - Diocesan Designated Liaison Person, Mr. Fintan Fanning, 087 100 0232 email dlp@ossory.ie; Tusla Tel. 059 911 5570 or www.ossory.ie/safeguarding. Parish Safeguarding Representatives: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

Conahy Shamrocks Junior Finalists

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Sport

Conahy Shamrocks show their class to book Junior Final place JJ Kavanagh Kilkenny Premier Junior Hurling Championship Semi-Final Conahy Shamrocks 1-21; John Lockes 1-18. John Power at UPMC Nowlan Park Conahy Shamrocks produced a powerful finish to overcome John Lockes of Callan by three points in a thrilling JJ Kavanagh Junior Hurling Championship semi-final at UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday. In a contest that remained in the balance for almost the entire hour, the Northern side showed their experience and composure when it mattered most to secure their place in the county final. The Shamrocks will now bid to capture their fourth county junior title in a fortnight's time, adding to the successes they enjoyed in 1976, 2007 and 2020. They will have been delighted with the character shown in this encounter, particularly after finding themselves four points adrift with just ten minutes remaining. John Lockes looked well placed to book their place in the decider when they led by 1-17 to 0-16. However, Conahy refused to accept defeat and produced a superb late surge that ultimately carried them over the line. Points from promising minor player Patrick Kennedy and the excellent Edmund Delaney provided the initial spark for the comeback. Delaney, who was a constant threat throughout, followed up with another fine contribution as Conahy began to turn the pressure back on their opponents. The decisive moment arrived shortly afterwards when Thomas Rice found the net with a crucial goal. The move was created through a combination with Kilkenny senior inter-county player Tom Phelan, whose influence grew as the game entered its closing stages. Rice's finish swung the momentum firmly in Conahy's favour, putting them ahead for the first time in a while. With confidence restored, Phelan added a point before substitute Karl Downey also found the target to leave the Shamrocks three clear at 1-20 to 1-17. John Lockes continued to fight, and a Tommy Roche free reduced the deficit, ensuring there was still plenty of tension as the game entered added time. However, James Bergin settled Conahy nerves with a valuable point in the third minute of ad-

Conahy Shamrocks find space in attack dispite the close attentions of the John Locks defence

ditional time, restoring the three-point cushion and confirming the Northern side's passage to the final. As has been the case in many of the 2026 championship encounters, there was

little to separate the sides for long periods. Both teams had opportunities to take control, but Conahy's greater experience in the closing stages proved crucial. Playing with the assis-

tance of the breeze in the opening half, Conahy held a slender 0-10 to 0-8 advantage at the interval. While it was a useful lead, they knew there was plenty of work to do, particularly with John

Lockes capable of building momentum after the restart. The Shamrocks could have enjoyed an even healthier position had a goal opportunity been converted. Eoin Cahill was denied by an excellent save from John Lockes goalkeeper Brian Doheny, who reacted superbly to keep his side in the contest. John Lockes made an immediate impact after the break, with Thomas Roche landing three points from frees to move the Callan side one point ahead. It was an impressive response, but Conahy answered in equally determined fashion. Edmund Delaney struck twice from play, while Thomas Rice added another point as the Shamrocks regained their interval advantage. The exchanges continued at a lively pace, with Roche converting another free before Ryan Bergin levelled matters at 0-13 apiece. A free from midfield in the 40th minute edged Conahy back in front, but the lead lasted only briefly. A minute later, Ollie O'Donovan burst through the Conahy defence to score a vital goal for John Lockes, putting the South Kilkenny side ahead by 1-13 to 0-14. Delaney responded quickly with a lovely point from play, underlining his importance to the Conahy attack. O'Donovan and Phelan then exchanged points as neither side could establish a decisive advantage. The crucial spell appeared to arrive when John Lockes registered three unanswered points. Two more from the reliable Roche, followed by a score from Zak O'Halloran, pushed the Callan men four clear and left Conahy facing a serious challenge with only ten minutes remaining. At that stage, John Lockes seemed to have done enough to secure their place in the final. However, the Shamrocks had other ideas, and their response demonTom Phelan takes the ball with Thomas Rice in support as Adam O'Sullivan appeals for a free

Darragh Horgan (CS) keeping a close eye on Owen McGrath (JL)

Eoin Lynch breaks with the ball with support from Michael Lynch and Owen McGrath, while Darragh Horgan,Ciaran Rice and Eoin Cahill give chase

strated the value of experience in knockout championship hurling. Delaney, Rice and Phelan led the charge during the closing stages, combining individual skill with intelligent attacking play to turn the contest around. Their contributions, allied to the impact of the substitutes, proved decisive as Conahy finished strongly. For John Lockes, this was a bitter disappointment after a determined performance in which they matched their opponents for long periods and looked capable of reaching the final. Their display nevertheless suggested that they have the ability to make further progress in this grade. For Conahy Shamrocks, however, the immediate focus will be on the county final. Their late rally at UPMC Nowlan Park demonstrated their resilience, and they will now have the opportunity to add another chapter to the club's proud junior hurling history. SCORERS CONAHY SHAMROCKS: Edmond Delaney (0-10, 0-6 frees), Thomas Rice (1-2), Tom Phelan (0-3), James Bergin (0-2), Eoin Cahill, Mark Gunner, Patrick Kennedy, Karl Downey (0-1 each). JOHN LOCKES: Tomas Roche (0-10, 0-9 frees), Ollie O’Donovan (1-2), Zak O’Halloran (0-3), Ryan Bergin (0-2), Ryan Donovan Cooke (0-1). TEAMS CONAHY SHAMROCKS Padraic Delaney, Padraic Gunnar, Philip Cass, Darragh Horgan, Ciaran Rice, Darragh Hennessy, Liam Cass, Jack Rhatigan, Edmond Delanev, Tom Phelan, Patrick Kennedy, Thomas Rice, Eoin Cahill, James Bergin, Mark Gunnar. Substitute: -Karl Doheny for Mark Gunnar, Rob Ring for Liam Cass. JOHN LOCKES Brian Doheny, Ciaran Phelan, Jack McDowell, Tommy Hoyne, Michael Lynch, Adam O'Sullivan, Denis O'Sullivan, Paddy O'Brien, Ryan Donovan Cooke, Eoghan Lynch, Owen McGrath, Ryan Bergin, Ollie O'Donovan, Tomás Roche, Zak O'Halloroan. Substitute: - Shane Crowley for Tommy Hoyne, Robbie Jackman for Eoghan Lynch. Referee: Michael O’Sullivan (Shamrocks Ballyhale).

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Sport

Dunne the hero as Graiguenamanagh produce stunning comeback to reach County Final

Ariel Contest

Graiguenamanagh forward gets his shot away despite the attentions of the O'Loughlin Gaels defence

Graiguenamanagh 2-17 O’Loughlin Gaels 3-13 By Jim Whelan Graiguenamanagh booked their place in their third county Junior final in the most dramatic fashion imaginable, producing a remarkable second-half comeback to snatch a one-point victory over O’Loughlin Gaels in Nowlan Park Trailing by ten points early in the second half, the Barrow boys looked to be heading for defeat. However, two goals from Ted Dunne, including a sensational injury-time effort, turned the game on its head before Ivan Bolger struck the decisive point to seal a famous victory. For O’Loughlin Gaels, it was a devastating defeat after appearing to have one foot in the county final. For Graiguenamanagh, it was a triumph of determination, never-say-die spirit. The game was slow to get going, with O’Loughlin Gaels opening the scoring through a free from the impressive Alex Sheridan. Graiguenamanagh responded with points from Steven Kinsella and Seamus Kavanagh, but the city side soon began to take control. Sheridan and the dangerous

Kevin Murphy led the charge as O’Loughlin Gaels dominated the opening quarter, building a five-point advantage. Graiguenamanagh worked tirelessly but struggled to break down a well-organised Gaels defence. Points from Michael Bolger and Sean Walsh, along with frees from Kinsella, helped the South Kilkenny side stay in touch. However, their task became more difficult in the 25th minute when a long delivery into the Graiguenamanagh square caused confusion in the defence. Jack Sheridan reacted quickest to the loose ball and found the net, putting O’Loughlin Gaels four points clear. Graiguenamanagh responded with points from Pierce Blanchfield and Michael Bolger to leave the half-time score at O’Loughlin Gaels 1-8, Graiguenamanagh 0-9. Graiguenamanagh went in two points down but will have been happy enough as they will feel they did not play to their full potential. Any supporter returning late their seats will scarcely have believed the score board. O’Loughlin Gaels came flying out of the blocks. A point from Alex Sheridan was followed by goals from his brother Jack and Kevin

Ted Dunne (G) gathers the ball with the help of Jack Ryan and Seamus Kavanagh (G), While Jamie Young (OLG) makes a challenge

Murphy, leaving the city side nine points clear in the 37th Minute. Another Sheridan free extended the advantage to ten points, and O’Loughlin Gaels appeared firmly on course to reach the county final for a second successive year. Graiguenamanagh finally opened their second-half account in the 45th minute when Steven Kinsella converted a free. Recognising that the game was slipping away, the Graiguenamanagh management made four quick substitutions in an attempt to spark a bit of life to the Graig team. The changes helped inject fresh energy into the side, and Ted Dunne gave the Barrow boys renewed hope when he found the net to reduce the deficit to six points. Further scores from Michael Bolger and Jack Ryan brought Graiguenamanagh within three, but Sheridan continued to keep O’Loughlin Gaels ahead with two more pointed frees. With time

running out, the city side appeared to have done enough to secure their place in the final. However, Graiguenamanagh refused to accept defeat. Points from Pierce Blanchfield and Kinsella kept the comeback alive, while a red card for O’Loughlin Gaels' Matthew Russell added further drama to the closing stages. Despite another free from Sheridan, the Gaels were left with a three-point advantage as the game entered injury time.

When referee Eoin Behan signalled three additional minutes, few could have predicted the Roy of the Rovers style finish that was about to unfold. Graiguenamanagh threw everything forward in search of a goal, and Dunne delivered when it mattered most. Producing a moment of brilliance, he fired home a sensational second goal to bring the sides level and send the Graiguenamanagh supporters into delirium. There was still time for one final twist. Ivan Bolger

Close contest as not an inch given

No room given in this exchange

stepped up to register the decisive point, completing an astonishing turnaround and giving Graiguenamanagh a one-point lead. The final whistle sparked scenes of unrestrained joy as Graiguenamanagh faithful poured from the stands and onto the field to celebrate a victory that had seemed impossible just minutes earlier. O’Loughlin Gaels will be left wondering how they allowed a ten-point advantage to slip away. Alex Sheridan was outstanding throughout, finishing with ten points, while Jack Sheridan and Kevin Murphy both found the net. Ultimately, though, they could not withstand the relentless pressure of a Graiguenamanagh side that battled to the final whistle. Graiguenamanagh deserve enormous credit for their resilience and fighting spirit. They have had to dig deep on several occasions this season, and once again their refusal to give up proved decisive. Ted Dunne was the matchwinning hero, but this was a victory built on never say die attitude. Graiguenamanagh have gone to the well on more than one occassion this year and this unlikely win sets up a county final meeting with Conahy Shamrocks in Nowlan Park at 3pm on Saturday, October 24. If Graiguenamanagh are to lift the Bob Alway Cup for the second time in their history, they will know that a much-improved performance will be required. however, the Barrow boys will head into the final believing that anything is possible. Teams and Scorers Graiguenamanagh: Colin Bolger; Owen O’Brien, Ivan Bolger, Dylan Cahill; Sean Dowling, Richard Foley, James Meaney; Sean Walsh, Cian O’Shea; Pierce Blanchfield, Jack Ryan, Steven Kinsella; Seamus Kavanagh, Ted Dunne, Michael Bolger. Subs: Sean Hamilton, Jack Browne, Nicky Ryan, Tomas Ryan. Scorers: Ted Dunne (2-0); Steven Kinsella (0-7, 6 frees); Michael Bolger (0-4); Pierce Blanchfield (0-2); Seamus Kavanagh, Jack Ryan, Sean Walsh and Ivan Bolger (0-1 each). O’Loughlin Gaels: Jamie Malone; Barry Lawlor, Jamie Young, Jeff Tyrrell; Luke McDonald, Matthew Russell, Ruaidhri Galwey; Sean Bolger, Alex Molloy; Alex Sheridan, Paddy Butler, Eoghan O’Brien; Kevin Murphy, Conor Holohan, Jack Sheridan. Subs: Sammy Johnston, Adam Maher Scorers: Alex Sheridan (0-10, 6 frees); Jack Sheridan (2-0); Kevin Murphy (1-3). Referee Owen Beehan.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters - Preview

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship 2026 And then there were two. We now know the teams that will battle to be crowned Tom Walsh Cup champions in just over a week’s time. Following two titanic battles last Sunday, Tullaroan and Shamrocks Ballyhale emerged from their semifinal encounters and preparations are now in full swing ahead of the decider on October 25th. For The Sash, it will be their first County final since 1994, when they defeated Dicksboro in a low scoring contest to claim a 20th senior title. Reigning champions, Shamrocks Ballyhale will aim to retain their title, but that will be no easy feat. Both last four games were in the melting point right up to the long whistle, but there would be no final hurrah for the players of Bennettsbridge and Thomastown who exited this year’s campaign. Bennettsbridge 2-14 Tullaroan 1-20 Tullaroan booked their place in the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship final with a hard-earned three-point victory over Bennettsbridge in the first of the semi-finals played at UPMC Nowlan Park. The final score of 1-20 to 2-14 is only one page of the story, as this was a fiercely contested clash that remained in the balance until the closing stages. Played before a decent crowd at Kilkenny’s headquarters, both teams arrived with genuine ambitions of reaching the county decider. Bennettsbridge had gathered momentum following their quarterfinal success, while Tullaroan entered the contest determined to secure a first final appearance in more than 30 years. The opening exchanges were played at a frantic pace, with no quarter given as both defences applied intense pressure. Tullaroan gradually settled into their rhythm and looked the more composed side in possession, using the ball intelligently and working opportunities through patient build-up play. Mossy Keoghan got the first score of the game, while veteran Nicky Cleere struck a brace for the ‘Bridge early doors. The Sash forwards found their range from placed balls and open play, helping them build a double-score lead by the end of the first quarter.

‘Bridge & ‘Town beaten as The Sash and Shamrocks advance! Martin Keoghan feels the pain as hes hard tackled by David Blanchfield

Top two title holders will face-off in 2026 final

Richie Reid looks foe support as Peter Mc Donald tackles

However, Bennettsbridge responded in the manner expected of a team with a great tradition and resilience. They brought greater urgency to their attacking play and were rewarded when a well-worked move resulted in the game’s first goal. Liam Blanchfield was alert and collected Alex O’Farrell’s underhit free before rifling past Niall Holland in the Tullaroan goal. That green flag lifted the ’Bridge supporters and they registered the next score also, but Dave Mulcahy’s charges didn’t panic and reeled off the games next 3 scores, the third of which was major in more ways than one, as Gearoid Dunne fired to the net. The contest remained finely balanced as half-time approached,

with Brian Lannon’s outfit notching two scores ahead of the short whistle to trail five as they headed to the changing rooms. The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Sash outscoring their opponents in the opening stages. Tullaroan’s work-rate around the middle third proved crucial, allowing them to win important breaking ball and maintain a steady flow of possession to a dangerous forward line. When Martin Walsh split the ‘Bridge posts on 38 minutes to extend his sides lead to seven, all seemed smooth for the 20-times champions. Yet Bennettsbridge were far from finished. Showing tremendous determination, they raided forward

repeatedly, raining in long balls towards their target man, and this paid dividends when they found a second goal that reignited hopes of a comeback. With the margin reduced to a one-score game and tension rising around Nowlan Park, the outcome remained uncertain entering the final minutes. The closing stages demanded composure and Mulcahy’s men delivered exactly that. Rather than sitting back, they continued to attack and picked off a series of valuable points that ultimately proved decisive. Their ability to retain possession under pressure frustrated Bennettsbridge, who struggled to create the clear-cut opportunities required to overturn

the deficit. A trio of scores from the impressive Shane Walsh ensured that Tullaroan repelled the ‘Bridge challenge and took another step on their journey to catch the Shamrocks. When the final whistle sounded, Tullaroan had secured a deserved 1-20 to 2-14 victory and a place in the county final. For Bennettsbridge, the defeat was no doubt disappointing. The two goals demonstrated their scoring power, when going direct to Liam Blanchfield, and they battled courageously throughout. This was a team that almost found themselves in a relegation final, but they certainly turned things round when the championship came calling.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters - Preview

Thomas Dunne finds it difficult to get away from Eoin Walpole

previous county champions was a game that many on Noreside and beyond were looking forward to, but those expecting a top-class hurling were treated to more of a cagey, scrappy affair with lots of intensity and placed ball accuracy. The youngest of the Mullen production line got the scoreboard moving, striking over a booming score into the wind. Some good battling by John Donnelly allowed Robbie to fire over the equalising score. It was pretty much nip and tuck, with both sides cancelling each other out, score for score. TJ levelled matters on 18 minutes; the sides deadlocked five points apiece, but then Noel Dherty’s troops hit three scores on the bounce to move into a 3-point lead with about ten minutes of the first half remaining thanks to efforts from Donnelly’s Robbie and John and Cian Doherty. TJ kept the Shamrocks in touch as the short whistle approached, but the final two points of a chesslike opening period came from Donnelly’s Stephen and Robbie, to

Jake Mullen and Rory Connellan batteling for possesion

In the end, Tullaroan’s blend of patience, work-rate and clinical finishing saw them emerge victorious from a gripping semifinal. Having negotiated a stern challenge from Bennettsbridge, they left UPMC Nowlan Park with momentum and belief, knowing that only one more opponent stand between them and Tom Walsh glory. Tullaroan: Shane Walsh (0-9, 8fs); Dylan Simpson (0-5, 2fs); Gearoid Dunne (1-1); Martin Keoghan, Bill Gaffney (0-2 each); Peter Walsh (0-1) Bennettsbridge: Nicky Cleere (0-8, 6fs); Liam Blanchfield (2-0); Eoin Walpole, Jimmy Lennon (0-2 each); Sean Morrissey, Timmy Kelly (0-1 each)

Shamrocks Ballyhale 1-18 Thomastown 1-16 Shamrocks Ballyhale go to the well. This is a key characteristic of this great club that stands to them when faced with stubborn, quality opposition. Mark Aylward’s team had to dig in during their meeting with Thomastown in a game that turned on its head in the final stages. The clash of the current and

leave Thomastown two points to the good at the interval. Shamrocks sent on Adrian Mullen in place of Larry Cody, a change that illustrated their management teams’ desire and intentions for the second half. The men from Páirc na Seamróga started the half quickly, points from intercounty stars, TJ Reid and Eoin Cody squaring things up as the crowd shifted in their seats, the battle was on. Robbie Donnelly sent over a pair of frees, either side of one from TJ to give Noel Doherty’s team a one-point. The pacy Cian Doherty struck over a lovely score with ‘50 on the clock, but again, the Tom Walsh holders responded with a four-point burst, courtesy of TJ, Liam Barron and two from former Kilkenny captains, Adrian Mullen and Eoin Cody to move two clear with about seven minutes of normal time remaining. Thomastown were not for going away. Robbie Donnelly split the Shamrocks posts to leave the ‘Town arrears at the bare minimum. Then came a score that gave great belief to the supporters of the Grennanbased side. Stephen Donnelly sent a long ball into the danger zone which Daithi Barron did well to collect. Despite being bottled up, Daithi somehow found John Donnelly with a hand pass, and the former Cats skipper buried his shot beyond Dean Mason to push the 2024 champions into a 2-point lead. Time for Shamrocks to go to the well. Aylward’s men attacked with great intent, Liam Barron, heavily involved. The ball arrived with Niall Shortall, and he blasted it beyond the advancing Diarmuid Galway to give the 2025 champions a 1-point lead. Stephen Donnelly fired over a nice score to deadlock matters once again, but the Shamrocks dug in again and a placed ball from the legendary TJ Reid and a well-worked team score from green flag raiser, shortall secured the battling victory and sent Mark Aylward’s charges to the 2026 county final where they will face a dangerous animal in Tullaroan. Shamrocks Ballyhale: TJ Reid (0-8, 7fs); Niall Shortall (1-1); Eoin Cody (0-3); Adrian Mullen (02); Jake Mullen, Darragh Corcoran, Cathal Coogan, Liam Barron (0-1 each) Thomastown: Robbie Donnelly (0-7, 5fs and 1 ‘65); John Donnelly (1-2); Daithi Barron (0-3); Stephen Donnelly (0-2); Luke Connellan, Peter McDonald (0-1 each)

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by Henry Healy for development at Knockbodaly, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny. R95 T861. The development will consist of works to renovate the existing outbuildings to accommodate a two-bedroom residential dwelling, including alterations to all elevations, the reconfiguration of internal layouts, and rooflights. Other works include installing an on-site EPA-compliant wastewater treatment system with a percolation area, soakaways, borehole well, landscaping, and all associated site works to facilitate development. The development will be accessed through the existing vehicular entrance off the L-8221-38. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. Web: www.gmarch.net.

Planning permission sought for provision of additional car parking spaces and for alterations to existing parking layout, provision of universal access to main entrance, accessible footpaths, including the formation of a new opening in the wall to the grounds storage depot for pedestrian access, associated site works and ancillary related works at St Canice’s Hospital, Dublin Road, Kilkenny. The premises is included in the Record of Protected Structures, Ref. B216. Applicant: Health Service Executive The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. Architects: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Shay Properties Ltd. hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for works to the area outside the Waterbarracks entrance to Kilcreene Lodge, Kilcreene, Kilkenny City. The development site is located adjacent to a Protected Structure ‘Kilcreene Lodge’ Ref B117 and NIAH Ref. 12401927. The development will include localised resurfacing works, the installation of cast iron lamp posts & bollards, raising the height of the neighbouring boundary walls to 1.8m high and the installation of new entrance gates in the existing opening, and all associated site development and ancillary works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. www.briandunloparchitects.com

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Shane Raymond and Laura Conway, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission to, a). alter, repair, reconstruct and refurbish the existing timber and corrugated steel roofed shed adjacent to the existing stone boundary walls, b). install solar panels on existing and proposed roofs, c). carry out internal repairs, refurbishment and alterations to dwelling, d). partially demolish low grade timber shed and all associated site works at Noreville House, Dublin Road, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny, R95 C3YH This application relates to development which comprises of the carrying out of works to a protected structure. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee 20 euros, within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Liby Fuels Ltd, intend to apply for planning permission for development at Daybreak, Friary Walk Retail Park, Clashacollare, Callan, Co Kilkenny. The development will consist of the change of use from retail use to retail with ancillary use as an off licence, and associated works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. APS Consulting Engineers, Lackagh, Turloughmore, Co. Galway. www.apsconsulting.ie 091 737 458

TO PUBLISH A PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street | Telephone: 056 777 1463 / 086 239 5370 | Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

MARY WOODGATE 11TH ANNIVERSARY

TED WOODGATE 24TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Mary and Ted Woodgate whose anniversaries occur at this time. No matter how life changes No matter what we do A special place within our hearts Is always kept for both of you. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th October at 12pm, St. Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy, Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. C.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

Classifieds

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026

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Classifieds

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16th October 2026