Kilkenny Observer 16th September 2022

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Friday 16 September 2022

Budget Special Where we stand now on energy prices  The latest news, Page 6

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The Queen Dies Our love\hate affair with the Royals  Paul Hopkins, Page 24

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The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust

The family of the late James Barry, Kilmoganny, Co. Kilkenny met with Colin and Eithne Bell to donate to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

Walter, Angela and Catherine wish to thank all who donated online, to those who gave cash donations in Molloy’s Funeral Home and

especially to James’s friends in Sydney for organising a GoFundMe page in James’s memory.

May James Rest in Peace.

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The new brain drain

A majority of our young people are considering emigrating because they fear for their future, according to a new survey, by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), which shows seven in 10 adults aged between 18 and 24 are looking at moving because they believe working overseas offers them better prospects.

The survey one in two said their mental health had wors-

ened as a result of the cost-ofliving crisis.

Almost half of all respondents said they were struggling to make ends meet, while more than a quarter said their experience with housing had become worse in the past six months.

The NYCI, the representative body of voluntary youth organisations in Ireland, has expressed concern at the findings, which it claims

highlights the severe impact of the current cost-of-living crisis on young people.

It has called on the Government to take urgent action to dissuade young people from emigrating and to act to ensure they are not overlooked during the crisis.

The NYCI said many young Irish adults looked likely to choose to emigrate unless their voices were heard in the forthcoming Budget.

Commenting on the findings of the survey, NYCI’s Director of Policy and Advocacy Paul Gordon said: “Many say they’re struggling to make ends meet and quality of life considerations are driving them to consider a future outside of Ireland.

“Unfortunately, an overwhelming majority feel a better quality of life can be achieved elsewhere.”

Among the measures pro-

posed by the NYCI to address the concerns of young people are reduced registration fees for third level education and apprenticeships and raising the national minimum wage for under 20s to the over 20s rate.

Other proposals include extending the Young Adult travel card to more young people and increasing the rate of Jobseekers’ Allowance for under25s to the over-25s rate.

Charles’ new role in North

Average weekly earnings rose 2.4% year-on-year in the second quarter and, similarly, average hourly earnings increased 2.7%, according to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).

The number of paid hours worked remained stable at 32.6, but the job vacancy rate was up to 1.6% in June from 1.2% at the end of Q2 2021. Meanwhile, average hourly other labour costs have increased 43% from €2.91 to €4.16 in the past year.

The plight of our lonely people Though our need to connect is innate, many of us frequently feel lonely. That sense of discomfort that results when one perceives a gap between the desire for social connection and the actual experiences of such.

According to agencies there are up to 400,00 lonely people in Ireland.

See Gerry Moran, Page 20 Global Report, Page 22

€148m Glanbia windfall for farmers EVERY FRIDAY

Domestic price caps are being ‘examined’ by the Government but electricity credits are set to be the main focus of supports, according to Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath.

Ministers will consider electricity bill price caps, which were put in place in the UK by newly appointed British prime minister Liz Truss, in an ambitious and costly plan where households will pay no more than £2,500 (€2,886) a year for the next two years.

Budget Special, Page 6

Wages are up by 2.4% this year

Britain’s King Charles III will hope to play a role in resolving the “difficulties brought by Brexit and the protocol” as he became the first king to visit the North in almost 80 years. He is pictured here greeting President Michael D Higgins during a memorial service for Queen Elizabeth at St Anne’s Cathedral in Belfast.

Historian Dr Eamon Phoenix believes the new king will “build on the foundations laid” in improving Anglo-Irish relations by his late mother.

“Particularly in the difficulties caused by Brexit and the protocol which dogged Anglo-Irish relations in the last six years.”

A Glanbia Co-Op €148m windfall has been divided among more than 11,000 farmers after they received shares in stock market-listed Glanbia Plc. The farmers received a total of 12 million shares from Glanbia Co-operative So-

11th hour talks on energy crisis

ciety — to be renamed Tirlán — following a deal linked with the stock market group last year.

The members of the co-op have received an average of 975 shares each, currently valued at just over €12,000.

Following the spin-out of

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Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

the shares to its members, the co-op remains the single largest shareholder in Glanbia plc, with a near 28% stake in the group. That stake is currently valued at close to €1bn.

Glanbia Plc and Glanbia Co-Op agreed a deal last

year that saw the co-op pay €307m for the 40% of Glanbia Ireland it did not own. That transaction was completed in April this year.

Glanbia Ireland was created almost six years ago following a deal between Glanbia Co-op and Glanbia

Plc and is the biggest dairy company in the country, with sales of €1.9bn in 2020 when it made a €61m profit after tax.

It owns well-known brands such as Avonmore and Kilmeaden. Sales this year are expected to hit over €3bn.

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins....................P8 Marianne Heron............P12 John Ellis ........................P16 Health & Science...........P18 Travel & Leisure............P19 Gerry Moran ..................P20 Gerry Cody..............P31–31 Food & Drink .................P32 TV & Streaming............P33 Sport..........................P40–43

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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News

New chapter as Bookville Fest live again!

Bookville, a festival of books for families and children, celebrates its sixth consecutive year in October, with a fantastic free programme of live workshops and events in libraries across Kilkenny city and county. This year we have a bigger and better Bookville Festival book, online video workshops and a Bookville exhibition. For full details of all things Bookville go to www. bookvillekilkenny.com.

County Librarian, Josephine Coyne said: “This year’s Bookville programme has a very enjoyable, packed and busy programme. For our first three years Bookville was a festival of live events and for 2022 we will once again bring live events to our Kilkenny fans, as well as the hugely popular Bookville Festival book, online videos and a Bookville exhibition.

“We look forward to giving a warm Kilkenny welcome to some of the best contemporary children’s authors and illustrators from the UK and Ireland and we are especially delighted to include seven Kilkenny authors and illustrators in our programme, who we know will inspire the next generation.”

The Bookville festival programme features 34 children’s authors and illustrators from the UK and Ireland. Over the six festival

days, from Friday, October 7 to Wednesday the 12th, there will be 38 live workshops

given by 23 authors and illustrators, covering creative writing, history, mindfulness,

comedy, music, illustration, storytelling, craft, poetry and activities as Gaeilge.

There will be a separate programme for schools and for the general public. All events

will take place in libraries across county Kilkenny, except for the feature family show, a puppet show based on the classic fairy tale Red Riding Hood, by Moon and Sixpence, Ireland’s travelling marionette theatre, which will run in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle on Sunday, October 9. Pre-booking is essential for all events. Booking will open at 9am on Tuesday, September 20. Places are limited, so early booking is advised.

As well as featuring many well-known UK and Irish authors and illustrators, such as Derek Landy, Holly Webb, Shane Hegarty and Tarsila Krüse, to name but a few, Bookville is proud to support the talent on their Kilkenny doorstep. The programme this year includes seven local Kilkenny authors and illustrators; Donal Cadogan with We are Kilkenny Cats, Audrey Dowling with Croke Park Mice, Helena Duggan with The Light Thieves, Eleanor Geoghegan with Popper Monster, Cliodhna Massey with Berg the Narwhal, Frank Salmon with Legends of Hamalot and Lizzy Shortall with Joy’s Playground, all of whom can be seen in person at workshops across the county. *For full details of all things Bookville go to www. bookvillekilkenny.com

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Budget 2022 Special

11th hour talks on prices The energy crisis dominated the first Leaders’ Questions of the autumn season in Leinster House when Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald called on the Government to price energy bills at the cost they were precrisis.

She said it would provide certainty to people heading into a bleak winter.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that Ireland would

follow the European framework of capping profits of energy firms and introducing a windfall tax, which would

Call for large hike in PRSI rate for the self-employed Increasing the PRSI rate paid by the self-employed should be greatly increased, according to an expert group set up to advise the Government on the tax and welfare systems.

The self-employed rate of Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) should rise over time from its current 4% to 11.05%, the Commission on Taxation and Welfare has proposed.

The move would affect up to 331,000 people who are selfemployed, including farmers.

Employees pay 4%, but their employers pay another 11.05% on their behalf.

For a PAYE worker a combined 15.05% is paid in PRSI. But just 4% is paid by the self-employed despite them getting similar social insurance benefits.

The commission, which is due to publish its report tomorrow, argues there has been a huge expansion in benefits paid to the selfemployed in the last few years,

according to a report in the the Irish Independent.

But this has not been accompanied by a rise in the PRSI they pay.

The recommendation for a huge rise in the PRSI for the self-employed is in line with one made by the Pensions Commission earlier this year.

People who pay the 4% self-employed rate of PRSI include farmers, tradespeople, professional people, certain company directors, people in business on their own or in partnerships and people with income from investments, rents or maintenance payments.

Self-employed people are now entitled to a range of social welfare benefits including jobseeker’s, the state contributory pension and maternity and paternity benefits.

However, despite the expansion of the benefits, the 4% rate of PRSI for the selfemployed has not changed.

Private renters move ‘a priority’ The national housing charity Threshold has called on the Government to introduce a tax relief on rents paid by private tenants in Budget 2023, to help alleviate cost-ofliving pressures and soaring rents.

The charity has warned that immediate actions must be taken by the Government to protect against rising rent costs, exorbitant energy bills and the cost-of-living crisis, pushing many private renters further into financial distress.

Threshold is calling on the Government to commit to the following measures: *Provide financial relief for private renters via tax relief *Establish a €20 million

Rent Arrears Fund to support renters experiencing financial difficulty *Increase the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) base rates *Establish a Dedicated Homeless Prevention Budget, amounting to 20% of all homeless expenditure *Deliver measures to retain homes in the rental sector via relief on the Capital Gains Tax (CGT) * Provide targeted measures to improve the energy efficiency of private rental homes *Establish a Deposit Protection Scheme as committed to in Housing For All.

bring in revenue that could be returned to householders and businesses.

He said he was not convinced by Sinn Féin’s proposals, stating that it was not costed and was open-ended.

However, Ms McDonald said that it is a time-limited proposal.

The Taoiseach said the energy crisis may not end anytime soon.

“You may need to think

beyond the end of February,” he said. Labour’s Ivana Bacik said the Government must act, stating the costs of bills are nearly as high as people’s rent.

People Before Profit Richard Boyd Barrett said people were being “crucified” by sky-rocketing bills.

Decisive measures were needed to protect people, he said.

“Heating your home is not

an optional extra,” he told the Taoiseach.

Ministers would consider electricity bill price caps, which were put in place in the UK by newly appointed British prime minister Liz Truss, in an ambitious and costly plan where households will pay no more than £2,500 (€2,886) a year for the next two years, said Public Expenditure Minister Michael McGrath.

However, electricity credits of €200 were set to be the main focus of any supports, with the Government considering as many as three instalments’ Meanwhile, Retail Ireland has said many retail businesses are struggling to cope with rapidly increasing energy and wider cost pressures, which will become even more acute over the coming months.

Tax-free inheritance ‘should be reduced substantially’ The amount of money parents can leave to their children tax-free should be “substantially reduced” a Government-appointed commission on taxation has said.

Doubtless, the proposal would prove controversial because inheritance tax issues are emotional and any move to make changes would likely generate an enormous backlash.

Last November, Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe [pictured above] was forced into an embarrassing U-

turn on a Budget measure to try to tax soft loans for house deposits given by parents to their children.

Now the Commission on Taxation and Welfare is set to recommend that the tax-free threshold for inheritance tax should come down radically over the next few years.

Under Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT) rules, a child can inherit €335,000 from their parents before they have to pay tax at 33%. Back in 2009, a child could inherit or be gifted €542,544 from

their parents before having to pay tax, with the rate at the time being 22%.

The commission does not put a figure on what the tax-free threshold should be, other than saying the reduction in the threshold should be “substantial”.

The commission’s report is due to be published by Mr Donohoe soon and this proposal will prove to be one of the most contentious.

The commission is not calling for any of its recommendations to be in this

month’s Budget, but rather it wants its recommendations implemented over a 10 to 15-year period.

The tax-free threshold is €32,500 for other close relatives, and €16,250 for more distant relatives or friends.

The recommendation is that the ‘group A’ threshold, for a child of €335,000, should come down to nearer these other two thresholds over time.

In the past the Government has defended the size of the tax-free threshold for children.

The Big SME Squeeze ‘an indictment’ After living through a global pandemic and following the onset of a war in Ukraine, resulting in the highest levels of inflation for nearly 40 years, the level of optimism among Irish food and agribusiness SMEs has plummeted to a five-year low., according to a new report.

This is a drop of 23 percentage points and a significant departure from last year’s findings, which showed a marked rebound in optimism levels in 2021 to a fouryear high of 77%.

Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm, has published its fifth annual Food and Agribusiness Report 2022 titled ‘The Big SME Squeeze’ – the only report focused exclusively on the pulse of Irish food and agribusiness SMEs. The report, conducted once again by Amarach Research during June and July 2022, includes the views of those that run some of the most innovative agtech companies and many of the food

brands that Irish consumers love – all a vital part of our rural and regional economies.

The findings of this report cement what businesses and consumers are now feeling – that the coming year will be much more difficult. There are several key factors why Irish food and agribusiness SMEs are disillusioned including 36% of businesses have experienced a 21% or higher increase in input costs (84% reported an increase in costs this year). In addition,

the cost of stock management has risen dramatically because of disrupted supply chains.

Also, salary expectations are increasingly becoming a barrier, with 2 in 3 businesses finding it difficult to recruit the right people. And, Brexit continues to impact with travel disruption, tariffs, regulatory changes and reduced access to raw materials from the UK, as well as lead times and cost increases.

See also Page 26

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Opinion

The Fact Of OfThe Matter PAUL HOPKINS

All the lonely people; why don’t they all belong?

Though our need to connect is innate, many of us frequently feel lonely.

That sense of discomfort that results when one perceives a gap between the desire for social connection and the actual experiences of such.

That’s how my psychologist friend from Magherafelt defines loneliness. Even some people who are surrounded by others — or are, say, in a long-lasting marriage — still experience a “deep and pervasive loneliness”, and that can pose serious threats to long-term mental and physical health such as cancers, he says.

In a nutshell, loneliness is a universal human emotion that is both complex and, perhaps, unique to each individual. And with it having no single common cause, the prevention and treatment of this potentially damaging state of mind can

vary dramatically.

For example, a lonely child who struggles to make friends at school has different needs than a lonely older adult whose other half has recently died.

According to a survey by Specsavers, just landed in my in-tray, many, many older people are loneliest in the summer – as they get fewer visits from loved ones and have more hours in the day to fill. Research in Ireland of 1,400 retired people discovered that 27 per cent feel disconnected when loved ones’ social schedules ramp up, leaving less time for them to check in.

With the country experiencing record temperatures this summer (about to leave soon), 43 per cent admit to struggling in the heat which can cause them to become isolated from their family and friends. Also, 57 per

cent think people talk more about loneliness in older people during winter, than in the summer months.

Specsavers Ireland Chairman Kerril Hickey says: “The research has shown there is a hidden issue around loneliness in older people during this period.

And with the days being longer, no doubt it can often feel quite a lonely time for many.”

Although she did marry and honeymooned in Ireland, her ancestral home, the novelist Charlotte Bronte once said: “The trouble is not that I am single and likely to stay single, but that I am lonely and likely to stay lonely.”

The late, and controversial, Mother Theresa said: “The most terrible poverty is loneliness, and the feeling of being unloved.”

Both Alone and dePaul estimate there are up to

400,00 people in Ireland who experience loneliness — that’s one in eight of us.

And as the days shorten I doubt loneliness will lessen, despite the Specsavers’ survey.

I would argue that loneliness is different from being alone, and that many older people — already isolated through bereavement, disability or living in the back of beyond — can find their solitary lives decidedly difficult. We are social creatures, and days in unsought isolation makes for an unhealthy life, saps morale and can, sadly, nudge towards depression and mental illness.

Loneliness can be as corrosive as any cancer, says Irish journalist and counsellor Anne Dempsey, author of The Retirement Handbook.

Loneliness, I would add, has a direct correlation

with the State’s erosion of local communities and community infrastructure.

The rural post office, the bank, the corner shop, the fair and the livestock mart — and now citizen advice bureaus — were all part of the fabric of society, contributing socially as well as commercially to people coming together.

A decline in neighbourliness is another concern.

Nobody wants to get involved anymore, as my Auntie May was wont to say, the same Auntie May who told her daughter before she popped her mortal socks that she did not want to lie in the church overnight because “I don’t want the neighbours knowing I have died”.

She was 94.

You should get out more often, get more involved, is something you’ll often hear the younger among us say

to older people. However, for some, combating loneliness is not a simple matter of going out and joining a club. Often, what has caused a withdrawal from society has deeper roots including fears, shyness and lack of confidence. Anne Dempsey says addressing these roots is the first step to breaking barriers down.

“This is where you and I come in. Society as a whole has a part to play in combating loneliness. Those of us with an older neighbour, friend or relative living alone could take time to phone or visit,” she says.

A regular half-hour visit could make a wealth of difference in helping someone feel wanted and remembered.

When was the last time you checked on your neighbour — or a relative — who lives alone?

Well?

Tips to help relieve constipation CLAIR WHITTY

Constipation is a common condition that can affect children and adults. Being constipated means that you are not having regular bowel movements. This can cause bloating and discomfort, or it can cause piles from over straining. While constipation is not a serious medical condition, you’ll feel far more comfortable when things move according to plan.

Some experts recommend that you have a bowel movement every day, and after every meal. Most of you will be lucky to have one movement per day! However, if you haven’t had a bowel movement after 3 days it would be worth talking to your doctor about it.

Drink plenty of water, warm water is better. Eat foods rich in fibre including whole grains and green leafy vegetables which are naturally rich in magnesium. Add linseeds/flax seeds to porridge to increase fibre. For more persistent problems try psyllium husks added to food or water. Figs, prunes, or prune juice can help. If you’re intolerant to a food and you don’t realise it, it could be causing you a problem. For

example, wheat bran flakes are commonly used to help relieve constipation but if you have a sensitivity to them, it could cause constipation rather than help it. You could try a cup of herbal tea; Linda likes Dr Stuarts Lax Plus tea; she says it works a treat to get things moving. Depending on how she feels, she will take either one or two teabags per cup. Exercise can help improve bowel function; it helps to get everything moving.

It’s important to have adequate gut microbiome to maintain gut function. Consider Super 8 Gold if you have constipation associated with Irritable Bowel Disease as it contains 102 billion “friendly” bacteria per capsule. 80% of which are bifidum bacteria, the main strain used in

the lower bowel.

Children may benefit from Udo’s Choice Infant Blend or Udo’s Choice Children’s Blend for the older child aged 5-15. Children can be afraid or nervous about going to the loo in school and this can cause them to hold on too long. Jan De Vries Bowel Essence works well to relieve constipation in children when it associated with nervousness or anxiety. It’s added to water and is suitable from two years of age.

I hope these tips help to get things moving for you.

Shop online@naturalhealthstore.ie Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

The trans debate: the trouble with pronouns How can someone get suspended from their job just because of a four- letter word? No, it wasn’t one of those words but the apparently inoffensive third person plural pronoun ‘they’.

The matter didn’t end there but continued in a row which led to contempt of court proceedings and imprisonment for the individual involved. How can a single word cause such conflict?

For background rewind to 2006 when the Transgender Equality Network Ireland was founded and to 2015. That year Ireland became the fourth country in the world to allow people over 18 to change the designation of their gender on government documents through self-determination. So, he can become a she and vice a versa simply by self-

identifying. This is where the word ‘they’ come in, a bit of a tautology maybe when a plural word is used for a singular person but come to think of it the late Queen of England sometimes uses the royal ‘we’.

Teacher: ”Can I ask them if they have done their assignment? Pupil: “No, we haven’t, our dog ate it.”

Maybe we do need a new pronoun and there are now 76 pronouns in use in different countries to apply in transgender situations. The French have rather chic ones : ve for hom ver for her and eirself so they don’t use the awkward ‘they’ .

There are nearly as many new gender descriptions as there are pronouns within the LGBTQ grouping starting with agender (someone who does not identify with any particular gender) and continu-

ing to androgyne, and the alphabet to, aealgender, mirrorgender and omnigender, so plenty of choice there.

Gender is both what individuals feel themselves to be and a social construct whereas sex is genetically determined. The presence of the sex chromosomes is in the genetic code: two X chromosomes (XX) make a girl, whereas an XY make a boy. Only the female sex is capable of producing eggs and only the male sex produces sperm. The World Health Organisation (WHO) defines sex as “the different biological and physiological characteristics of males and females, such as reproductive organs, chromosomes, hormones, etc”.

This where different ideologies can come into conflict.

But back to the situation

at the start of this column: where a teacher was jailed for contempt of court for disobeying an order not to attend the Westmeath secondary school where he taught. The situation escalated from Enoch Burke’s refusal on foot of an instruction to school staff to call a boy a girl and refer to the pupil as ‘they’. He was put on temporary administrative leave pending a disciplinary process but he continued to turn up at the school and a court order was then made against his attendance there.

At the court hearing Mr Burke said that what he was being asked to do was contrary to his conscience and his Christian beliefs.

So here there is a conflict of two different belief systems, one claiming to reflect Christian views and the other reflecting trans ideology. In this particular

situation the trans ideology appears to be prevailing. A pupil’s feelings need to be protected but what about respect for the teacher’s beliefs? I wonder how many schools there are now where teachers are required to use ’they ‘ for transgender pupils, a phenomenon which seems to be spreading rapidly.

Wilson’s Hospital School is not an isolated incident but one of a number of cases in other countries, where individuals who do not agree with trans ideology are accused of being transphobic and have lost their jobs. There have also been clashes over the right of trans women to compete in female sport and the right to have single sex spaces in women’s refuges, toilets and prisons.

Thankfully, the climate in Ireland has changed from one which was often ho-

mophobic to tolerance and inclusivity: the 2015 Referendum on same sex marriage was passed by a twothirds majority. I think it would be a shame if a new intolerance emerged and the prevailing ethos in education, employment and sport were to discriminate against those who believe that sex in men and women is genetically determined.

Transgender Equality Network Ireland (TENI) claim their vision is for “a world where all people, regardless of gender identity or expression, enjoy full acceptance, equality and human rights”. What happened at the Westmeath school seems at variance with this claim.

Surely, we should hope for acceptance of different points of view, something especially important to learn in our classrooms.

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Opinion

The white haired boy

BY NED EGAN

Part 1 Old tales of the ‘Troubles’ were grist to the mill for Moriya Phelan, who lived up the road from my house in Baurscoobe, near Dunamaggin. {I never saw her name written down – but it was pronounced Morr-eyeagh.} When I was seven or eight, she was an old woman, would have been born in the early 1880s.

Was the granny of the departed much-loved Kipper. One story she would often relate was - and is to this day – a puzzler. I only ever got the bones of it, so I’ll have to use poetic licence while I make a little literary smorgasbord. Just bits of the tale, dribs and drabs, were released to me.

Moriya didn’t dish this one out with her usual bare-faced truth-less gusto: she seemed a strangely outof-character and unusually reticent little old shawlie indeed, when she muttered away about ‘The WhiteHaired Boy’. [That title was given to any lad who was especially favoured by life, in those hard days.]

Her heart was never really in the telling of it. Yet, in the family tradition – she couldn’t resist acting

the seanchaí – being the seanchaí.

Unusual emotions I’d never seen before were there - it seemed ‘a bit too close to home.’

This reticence was odd in the extreme with Moriya, who would – if there was ever such a place as ‘Exaggeration City’ – be its elected, selected, and respected Pearly Queen!

Now, this much is fact; this I know.

One of her sons – we’ll call him ‘Steve’ - had been {like myself much later on} a little wanderer of a child.

Probably more resourceful than this writer. In his young days, there was a large military barracks in Callan, and the Black and Tans were always around the town, robbing and generally running amok, shooting the place up. As was their wont, their habit, their nature….

Steve, as was true of all labourer’s sons, was never even remotely flush with money – and decent food was a luxury. As a child, he would have been weaned from the breast onto ‘goody’ – which was a mixture of bread, sugar, and watered-down milk. Not much in the way of nourishment there. I know. I was among the many thousands who were reared on it. It was ‘danger time’ in a child’s life: get past the goody stage - and you had a 50/50 chance. {There was even a little song the Mammy would sing to us wee slurping nippers: “Well I know what babby wants – it’s goody on a saucer!”} But soon after weaning, we

learned, like fox cubs, to forage and pilfer. With a difference: around our area, we never robbed friends, or decent farmers. Oh, yes – there were a few of that sainted breed about – without them – it’s doubtful if this story would be written. And – contrary to the accepted stereotypes of the Protestants and Blueshirts {our “mortal enemies” according to Dev and his lackeys} those good people were among the very best.

And still are. {Loughbrack C of I community: I owe you a thousand feeds! Thank your Mams and Dads for me, in your prayers.} Yes, Moriya’s Steve was a little tearaway. Also an opportunist, with his eye and brain ever alert for the next chance. Only lads such as he made any progress in life in those days – especially if born into poverty. A life of labour and lousy grub awaited most poor little chisellers.. Who would, if they were lucky – or unlucky enough - to eventually wed – generate more, endlessly more, generations of subservient priest-whipped slaves.

The bog, the boat, or the box; those were the choices. Charity was absent then; mostly.

Even had the Rome-obsessed middle and upper classes the power to help the poor by simply clicking a switch to raise them out of poverty and degradation – they would not have done so. Never. Wouldn’t have bothered their arses. Why? Because of their prevailing dogma: never let poor people ‘get above themselves.’

That was the way. I suppose they needed to feel superior to someone …

So, young Steve pulled in wherever the rations were the soundest, using whatever quick wit and foresight was needed to advance his little cause.

As I said, the Black and Tans were raging through the countryside: still at it when he was ten or eleven. The Tans were genuine hard men from the trenches and battles of Mons and Picardy; where, according to the sweet old song, ‘roses were blooming.’ On the graves of young men, their former comrades, mostly. Popular legend has it that these men were all bad. But people say that about their local political opposites too.

Prominent amongst the Tan semimercenaries were a large amount of criminals; released on condition they’d go and kill the Irish. “Kill” is the word, readers: that’s what soldiers do; it’s their job. It’s the reason they are given great big guns with which to make holes in you.

Even the chaplains {padres} have their part in the killing: blessing the guns. Yep – I’ve seen ‘em at it. Why else are they in the Army – with Commissioned Officer rank? No lower ranks for the reps of the Big JC: ‘Bless you, my child – here’s a tin of spam – clear off and kill some bollix’ …

Little Steve had a fair interest in the ‘Tans, mainly to do with what he could scrounge or loot from

them, when they were back at the barracks. Like the wild apple and plum trees, the hazel and ‘bread nuts,’ the mushrooms in autumn, the sweet briar and the skeoch haw they were a source to be tapped. No more, no less. What B&Ts got up to in their ‘spare time’ as Steve termed it – {their gun-waving terrorisingtime, that is} – bothered him not at all.

After a while they got used to the little blonde {only one in his family} tearaway hanging about, and would buy a few fresh {freshly robbed, that is!} eggs from him, or hazel nuts he picked in Heffernan’s Rath – and squirreled away to sell later at fifty to the penny.

So, the time came when he was allowed to ride on their troopcarriers – the infamous Crossley Tenders. He soon became a sort of mascot. Of course, they asked him for information. And of course – he gave it to them! But, being a true son of Moriya – he was absolutely incapable of telling anyone anything except huge lies and ‘good ones’!

Which the Tans took as gospel!

Cute enough, he often led them to the houses of informers and ‘Dacent Boys’ – where the Tans robbed to their hearts content. And so did Steve! He knew the locals didn’t give a shite what happened to those lousers! {Remember, reader – I’m relying on the old cuairdioch with Moriya for most of these details – I never met Steve.} What the Tans weren’t quite aware

of was that while he was amusing and helping them – he was passing along, every night, details of what went on, to a pal of the local IRA Intelligence chief! Who, of course, would have suggestions passed back to Steve as to the next day’s ‘operations’ – plus a few handy pennies! He was never asked to send the ‘Tans into an ambush – and would not have done so. He knew most of them were real bad characters – but they were kind to him in their own rough savage way.

Which, in the hard world back then, went a long ways …

But, eventually, the Tans got a bit leery of him, and the lifts mostly stopped. Which didn’t worry Steve, as there was plenty opportunity for a bright boy to get on. But they still liked the chirpy little gorsoon, and he had the run of their tents or barracks. Which he found most profitable. But as the stuff he filched was always HM’s – and not personal – they didn’t give a shite. He was even reputed to have snitched a Mills Bomb – {hand grenade} - for which he got ten bob from ‘The Boys’ – a fortune in those days.

Then one day, as he was hanging around the Callan barracks, two Crossley Tenders came tearing down from the Mullinahone direction. They roared into the yard……….

To Be Continued Ned E.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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News Up to 43% of adults in the Republic of Ireland agree that, if they needed to receive palliative care, they would not have enough information to enable them to have conversations or make decisions about their care.

The finding is from a new survey of the public’s perceptions of palliative care commissioned by All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care (AIIHPC) to highlight Palliative Care Week which is just ending..

The theme for the ninth annual Palliative Care Week was ‘Palliative Care: Living as Well as Possible’ which was chosen following collaboration with AIIHPC’s members and the wider palliative care sector. It reflects what palliative care is and the positive impact that palliative care has on the lives of people with life-limiting illnesses and their families; allowing them to live their lives as fully as they can.

The survey of 1,000 people in Ireland carried out in July 2022, also highlighted some of the perceptions that exist about palliative care: • 43% agree that if they had to have palliative care, they do not feel ready to have those conversations or make those decisions • 44% of people think of cancer when they hear the term palliative care • 75% of adults agree that when they hear the term palliative care, they think that it is about supporting the quality of life for those with life limiting conditions.

• 29% of adults would be too scared to make decisions or have these conversations if they needed to receive palliative care.

Speaking ahead of Palliative Care Week 2021, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, said: “I am delighted to support the Palliative Care Week campaign. Palliative care greatly improves the experiences of those who are living with progressive or life-limiting illness, and as this year’s theme says, can help them to live as well as possible.

“It is important to emphasise that palliative care not only supports the person who is ill but it also supports family members, carers and those close to the person. This support is vital for the wellbeing of families during

SPECIAL REPORT

In good hands: An Taoiseach Micheál Martin and the Dunne family (Eoghan, Teresa, Keelin and Ciara) launching Palliative Care Week 2022. Eoghan Dunne avails of hospice and palliative care services from LauraLynn Children’s Hospice

Half of adults don’t know enough on palliative care More than 75% think about death when they hear the term palliative, says survey those challenging times. This Palliative Care Week, I want to acknowledge the work of all those who work in the palliative care sector, across the island of Ireland, in so many different roles, who constantly work to make better the lives of those in their care,” the Taoiseach said.

AIIHPC Director, Karen Charnley, said: “While we are encouraged to see that most people know that palliative care is about supporting someone with a life-limiting condition, we can see how important it is that during Palliative Care Week, we continue to share information

about the benefits of palliative care so that people become better informed about the supports that are available, so that they do feel comfortable to have conversations and make decisions about their care.”

Ms Charnley said the AIIHPC wanted to encourage people to talk to their GP or any health and social care professional about palliative care. *See thepalliativehub.com for more information and advice about palliative care.

Dr Feargal Twomey, Consultant in Palliative Medicine, Milford Care Centre & UL Hospitals

Group and HSE Clinical Lead for Palliative Care said: “Palliative care helps people to live as well and as fully as they can for as long as possible, despite their living with a serious life-limiting illness. Palliative care can improve quality of life and enable each person to carry on doing things that matter to them and spend important time with family.

“Palliative care is for people of all ages, at all stages of illness, wherever they live, or if they are in hospital or in a hospice. Palliative care is not only for people living with cancer, but for people

with motor neurone disease, dementia, advanced heart and lung disease and other progressive conditions too.”

John Wall, who is receiving palliative care for his cancer, has talked about the positive impact it has had on his quality of life: “Quality of life ix=s the single most important component for me, to successful living with an advanced cancer diagnosis. I’m extremely fortunate that, as a direct result of Palliative Care like

intevention, mine is thankfully as good as it’s ever been. Their ability to successfully manage my pain has given me back a part of my life that I thought was lost forever,” he said.

Visit thepalliativehub.com to find out more. #pallcareweek.

Online help for students ... we’ll do the sums Parents and guardians of Kilkenny first and second-year secondary students have been offered a free online learning support lesson which will help them assist their child with Maths.

The Tuition Centre, one of the country’s leading online learning support providers for post-primary students, is running a support programme in Maths for parents and guardians of first and second year students for one hour a week over nine-weeks from Monday, September 26.

To allow parents and guardians get a feel for the programme, the first lesson, in algebra, is free of charge.

“It is an opportunity for par-

ents and guardians to provide tangible support and get advice and direction from an experienced teacher on how they can help their child with Maths at post-primary level,” said Head

of Maths at the Tuition Centre, Eoghan O’Leary.

The Tuition Centre has pioneered online learning support for secondary school students.

More than 1,000 Leaving Cert students availed of its online support in 2022.

The nine-week package will also cover natural and rational numbers, sets, geometry, probability and statistics.

It will delivered by Maths teacher Aoife O’Mahony, who has over 15 years’ experience teaching higher level Junior and Leaving Certificate Maths.

She has delivered Maths workshops to both first-year and second-year parents for the last five years, equipping her with the techniques

required to help parents and guardians support and guide their children as they transition from primary to post-primary.

Since its inception in 2020, The Tuition Centre has emerged as a leader in the Irish education sector, thanks to its innovative, time saving and cost-effective supplementary exam support for secondary school students.

The Tuition Centre support classes are available both live, and as recordings, and provide access to supplementary exercises, study notes, etc. It stands alone in providing nationwide accessibility to high quality classes and resources at an affordable price.

Using highly regarded teach-

ing professionals, The Tuition Centre has democratised the sector, allowing secondary school children access to learning support which would otherwise be unavailable due to time, geographical and cost constraints.

Students have access to recordings of classes right up to the June exams.

“The transition from primary to post-primary education can be challenging for parents and guardians, as well as students,” said Mr O’Leary.

“Supplementary classes providing parent and student support are now an accepted part of the Irish secondary education narrative, complementing the work of schools.

“Effectively, using highly regarded teaching professionals, The Tuition Centre allows access to learning support which would otherwise be unavailable.

“The pandemic has quickly advanced the concept of online learning. Many Leaving Certificate students take a subject not taught to them in school, and often, online support is the logical choice,” he said.

The Tuition Centre is partnered with Examcraft, which, for over 25 years, has provided mock examination papers to Irish schools, becoming the leading provider of mock examination papers in the country. *Further information is available at thetuitioncentre.ie.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

A plain man’s guide to switching bank accounts As part of its ongoing work to supervise the withdrawal of Ulster Bank and KBC Bank from the Irish market, the Central Bank recently published a report showing the trends in account closures and openings.

The data shows a total of 292,996 accounts have been closed by customers in Ulster Bank and KBC Bank in the year to end of August 2022. Of these, 140,573 were current accounts, and 152,423 were deposit accounts. In total, 24% of the current and deposit accounts that were open at the beginning of the year in Ulster Bank and KBC Bank have now been closed.

The data also shows that the pace of account closures has accelerated in recent weeks.

A total of 600,311 accounts were opened in the three main remaining banks in the first eight months of the year.

The majority of these were current accounts (434,166).

This is approximately 46% higher than the number of accounts opened by this group of banks in the first eight months of previous years. The number of active credit and debit cards held by customers of the exiting banks declined by 21% since the beginning of 2021. Of the total new accounts opened in the first eight months of 2022, 56% were opened online, while the remainder were opened in a branch.

The average waiting time for a branch appointment was eight working days at end of August 2022.

Director of Consumer Protection, Colm Kincaid says: “It is positive to see that so many Ulster Bank and KBC Bank customers have taken the steps to move their accounts at this stage in the process, and it is clear that bank staff are working extremely hard to assist those customers. For customers

who are yet to complete migrating their account, banks must ensure that all and every reasonable measure is taken to ensure those customers are enabled to switch.”

But the experience of some customers in moving their accounts, has been far from satisfactory. Therefore, the Central Bank has advised all banks to increase resources, improve processes and training to equip staff to ensure that customers are properly supported. There are certain responsibilities that lie with your bank(s) but there are certain steps that only you can take.

Your new bank will open your new current account and provide you with a switcher pack to complete.

This includes the account transfer form and sample letter templates that can be used to inform your employer and other parties of your new

bank details. Then your new bank will send the completed account transfer from to your new bank to commence the switch.

But you must allow enough time for the switch to take place between your old and new accounts. Engage with

‘A mistake will delay the process...

your new account provider as early as possible to agree a switching date. Use a time when there is little activity in your account and avoid using your old cards or cheque book once the switching process has started.

Be careful when completing the form. At this stage a mistake will delay the process. If you make a mistake filling the form, better to complete a fresh one rather than crossing out your mistake, as this will make the form easier to read and will reduce delays.

Download or order any documents you require before you close your account eg. bank statements, certificates of interest, information on fees and charges as you will not have access to your account once they are closed.

Make sure there are sufficient funds in both your old account and your new

account during the transfer process so that you have access to your money and can continue to cover any incoming debits including standing orders, direct debits, cheques, interest fees or charges due. And, finally, don’t forget about your subscriptions. Those linked to your debit card do not fall under the switcher code and need to be reviewed manually.

If you are not happy with the switch or something goes wrong, first make a complaint directly to the bank as they must have a complaints process in place and there are strict timelines for dealing with your complaint. If, after following the complaints process, you are still not satisfied with the response, you can refer your complaint to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

News & Wellbeing Science We all know from basic chemistry at school that hydrogen is the most common element in the universe, and has long been hailed as a clean and plentiful alternative energy source. But the easiest way to produce hydrogen fuel requires pure water, which can be hard to get ahold of — and will only become more difficult to source as droughts continue around the globe.

But, in a new study published in the journal Nature Communications, scientists have revealed a new way to churn out hydrogen fuel.

It happens that all you need is the humidity that’s naturally hanging in the air, scientists found, along with their new device that swallows moisture and spits out hydrogen and oxygen. Their method could spur hydrogen fuel production anywhere on the planet.

When hydrogen reacts with oxygen in electricity-generating fuel cells, it leaves only water behind — unlike fossil fuels, which emit pollutants in the process. Electricity then splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen gases, a process that’s known as electrolysis.

Hydrogen research aims to harness solar energy or other renewables to create hydrogen fuel from water, all without harming the environment.

But this strategy “will need a significant amount of freshwater, and this can be a challenge in places where the water supply is a big issue,” says study author Gang Kevin Li, a chemical engineer at the University of Melbourne in Australia.

More than a third of Earth’s land surface is arid or semiarid, but these areas nevertheless manage to support roughly 20% of the world’s population, Li and his colleagues note.

Freshwater is extremely difficult to access for survival purposes in these dry There is yet another breakthrough announced in the treatment of some cancers.

The growth of metastatic tumours in mice has shown to be preventative in a new therapeutic approach by forcing cancer cells into a dormant state in which they are unable to proliferate.

The study, published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine (JEM), could lead to new treatments that prevent the recurrence or spread of various cancer types, including breast cancer and head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Many cancer patients relapse, often years or decades after their initial treatment, and develop new tumours that regrow in the same location or metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body.

These secondary tumours are often resistant to treatment and are produced by individual tumour cells that may remain dormant for long periods before being reac-

How hydrogen may offer us a new, clean energy option

regions, let alone to produce hydrogen fuel. Pollution, climate change, and factories that gobble up water only exacerbate water scarcity concerns.

And ,while desalination can free up seawater for hydrogen fuel production in coastal areas, this significantly increases the cost and complexity of the process.

“Most areas on Earth with high solar and wind potential lack freshwater,” Li says. “For example, a desert is deemed a good place for solar power,

but has no fresh water.”

Previously, Li researched ways to purify gases from smokestacks to capture the carbon dioxide within, so he got a handle on how to catch gases from the air. So when Li’s research expanded to hydrogen production and the hunt for fresh water, reflecting on his past work gave way to a eureka moment.

To see if his concept would work in water-scarce, lowhumidity regions, Li checked the relative air humidity in Alice Springs, an Australian

town next to the famous Uluru Rock in the deep of the country’s central desert.

He observed that Alice Springs in Australia had an average relative humidity of 20 percent throughout the year. Since this was far more moisture than they needed, electrolysis from thin air was definitely possible — even in some of the harshest environments.

In their experiments, the researchers used renewable energy from solar and wind power to operate a device

that could generate hydrogen fuel from water in the air with an efficiency of about 95%.

In their experiments, the researchers used renewable energy from solar and wind power to operate a device that could produce hydrogen from water in the air with an efficiency of about 95 percent.

The device in question is made of porous, spongy material that can take in moisture from the air, sort of like the silica gel packets found

in our beef jerky packaging.

Then, electrodes at either end turn the molecules into hydrogen and oxygen.

“This work reported the first technology that can directly produce high-purity hydrogen from the air without using a liquid water feed,” Li says. “This technology can potentially enable green hydrogen in areas su[ering from water scarcity, such as Middle and West Asia, North Africa, Central Australia, and West America, which are also areas abundant in solar power.”

In lab conditions, the new method could operate for more than 12 consecutive days and create hydrogen from the air with as little as 4% humidity in lab conditions. In comparison, in the drought-ridden Sahel region that spans east from Senegal to Eritrea, the average relative humidity is about 20%.

The scientists also tested their invention outside at the University of Melbourne campus, where temperatures varied from around 70 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit and the relative humidity ranged from 20 to 40 percent. On a warm sunny day, five modules that each had about 7.84 square centimetres of surface to yield hydrogen from the air could spawn 130 cubic feet of fuel per day.

The potential environmental impact of this device harvesting water from the air is likely negligible, Li notes. For instance, to supply hydrogen to all the residents and visitors at Alice Springs using the team’s technology, the relative humidity of the air in their surroundings would only fall by 0.02%.

So what’s next?

The scientists have just been offered venture capital cash to scale up their research. In the future, they aim to test a 107-square-foot version of their device in harsh environments, such as a desert, frozen zone, or stormy area, Li says.

form recurrent or metastatic tumours.

“We therefore thought that activating NR2F1 using a small molecule could be an attractive clinical strategy to induce cancer cell dormancy and prevent recurrence and metastasis,” Aguirre-Ghiso explains.

In the new JEM study, Sosa and Aguirre-Ghiso’s teams used a computerbased screening approach to identify a drug, named C26,

that activates NR2F1. The researchers found that treating patient-derived HNSCC cells with C26 boosted the levels of NR2F1 and arrested cell proliferation.

The researchers then tested whether C26 would prevent metastasis in mice. Animals injected with patient-derived HNSCC cells typically form large primary tumours that spread to the lungs after the original tumour is surgically removed.

Treatment with C26 reduced the size of primary tumours, and, after surgery, further doses of C26 completely blocked the growth of metastatic tumours. Instead, the rodent’s lungs contained just a few dormant disseminated cancer cells unable to proliferate even after cessation of the treatment.

Sosa and Aguirre-Ghiso’s teams determined that, by activating NR2F1, C26 forces cancer cells into a long-lived state of dormancy characterised by a unique pattern of

gene activity. Cancer patients whose tumours display a similar pattern of gene activity tend to go longer without relapsing, suggesting that inducing this dormancy program with C26-type drugs could be effective in humans.

“Drugs that activate NR2F1 might be particularly useful in breast cancer,” says Sosa.

“NR2F1 is highly enriched in ER-positive tumours when compared to ER-negative tumorus, and activating NR2F1 might be able to suppress reawakening of dormant cancer cells kept in that state by anti-estrogen therapies.”

However, because C26 treatment elevates the levels of NR2F1, the approach may also be useful for other cancers with inherently low levels of the receptor protein.

“Overall, our study reveals a mechanism-based and rationally designed strategy to exploit NR2F1-activated dormancy as a therapeutic option to prevent metastatic relapse,” Aguirre-Ghiso says.

Yet another break in cancer treatment tivated to start proliferating again.

Patient relapse might therefore be prevented if researchers could find a way to keep remaining cancer cells in a dormant state.

In a previous study, Maria Soledad Sosa from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Julio A. AguirreGhiso, now at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, discovered that the ability of cancer cells to remain dormant is

controlled by a protein called NR2F1.

This receptor protein can enter the cell nucleus and turn numerous genes on or off to activate a programme that prevents the cancer cells from proliferating. NR2F1 levels are usually low in primary tumours but are elevated in dormant disseminated cancer cells. Levels of the NR2F1 protein then decline once more when cancer cells start proliferating again and

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Travel & Leisure Osnabrück Established as a settlement

by Charlemagne, Osnabrück was a major trading post as part of the Hanseatic League. Also nicknamed the City of Peace, Osnabrück was one of two cities in Germany’s Westphalia region where negotiations happened to end the Thirty Years’ War. Inside Osnabrück’s (Rathaus) town hall, at the old town’s Market, the Peace Hall has a portrait gallery of the delegates in these talks. The building’s exterior has impressive details. Its entrance door has a handle adorned with a dove and is engraved with the German word for peace, ‘friede,’ and 1648, the last year of the war.

A statue of Charlemagne is positioned above, alongside ones of eight other rulers.

While in the old town, walk by the Romanesque St. Peter’s Cathedral, gabled townhouses and halftimbered homes, the Heger Tor gate and the Gothic church, Marienkirche.

The Felix Nussbaum Haus honours the Osnabrückborn Jewish painter Felix Nussbaum who perished in the Holocaust. The museum, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind and an extension of the Cultural History Museum, shows Nussbaum’s paintings before World War II and while in hiding before being captured by the Nazis.

For dining, the Weinkrüger is a traditional German restaurant serving large lunches and dinners. Cafes are common throughout Osnabrück; among them, Café Sophies prepares classic German cakes amid their coffee selection.

Fontanella is a popular ice cream parlour, and Gross Straffe is a main shopping street.

Romantik Hotel Walhalla Münster is a good place to stay.

HeyDisocunt.Co.UK has analysed the top shopping destinations by allocating points out of 10 on the basis of number of shopping locations, number of shops within a mile, number of centres within a mile, number of boutiques within a mile, and number of top designers/ retailers in the city.

1. Paris Paris, the fashion capital of the world, scores 7.42 on this study. Just walking along Champs Elysees and peeping into shopfronts is a thrilling experience.

The French city thrives on sophisticated fashion and it can be very expensive to shop for haute couture, but you will find treasures at flea markets (remember the names Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen and Les Puces de Montreuil).

2. Hong Kong Situated in the Special Administrative Region of China, people shop with a passion in Hong Kong, a

Germany: go beyond Berlin and Munich Münster Münster’s side of the peace negotiations for ending the Thirty Years’ War occurred at their historic town hall; the Hall of Peace showcases the room where their negotiations happened. This Gothic building is located within Münster’s Prinzipalmarkt, a thoroughfare aligned with gabled houses now occupied by upscale stores and cafes.

Prinzipalmarkt leads to St Lambert’s Church, which is known for two lengthy traditions. Three iron baskets hang from its tower, as a reminder of the public execution of those who led the Münster rebellion. Then, a tower keeper looks over the city at night and blows a horn from different directions from the tower and at certain time increments.

As Germany’s friendliest

city for cyclists, Münster has a system of bike paths and parking stations. Among them, the car-free Promenade is a green belt around the city centre, sharing space with pedestrians and passing by where city fortifications once stood.

Altes Gasthaus Leve, an inn dating back to 1607, keeps Westphalian cuisine (a regional gastronomy involving hearty meals from eggs, ham and sausages, stews, vegetable medleys and pumpernickel) on the table. Similar dishes are served at Pinkus Müller, a family-based brewery established in 1816 that still produces a variety of beers; some comply with Germany’s beer purity law.

The Wochenmarkt operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays on the Domplatz, located in front of the Münster

Cathedral, or St Paulus Dom. Vendors at this impressive farmers’ market sell mustards, spices, baked goods, honey, breads, meats, flowers and seasonal produce.

The Kunstmuseum Pablo Picasso Münster features the Spanish artist’s portraits and prints alongside temporary exhibitions of other artists, while the LWL Museum für Kunst und Kultur holds art from the Middle Ages to modern day. Stadtmuseum Münster tells of the city’s chronology through model displays.

An ideal place to satay is Feldmann Hotel & Restaurant Aachen, noted for its hot springs and as the residence of Charlemagne.

Achen Through the discovery of its hot springs, Aachen was

modern jewellry, the British city is mushrooming with the new and the old.

The 9 Best Cities for shopping favourite destination with a score of 6.33. The vertical city has tons of flashy shopping centres and busy street markets, and it’s a tax haven so the chances of finding good deals are high.

3. Tokyo The Japanese capital is in a league of its own when it comes to streetwear. It is no

surprise that Tokyo tops this list with a shopping score of 9 out of 10. It has the most shopping locations and the most number of boutiques and stores, so you can find anything from clothes to anime products to stationery to electronics. The city is peppered with shopping districts, department stores, malls with brand stores, and

founded by the Romans as a resort destination, yet Charlemagne, as the Holy Roman Emperor, made the city his royal residence. He is buried at Aachen Cathedral.

This World UNESCO Heritage site is also noted for its cupola and octagon and was where many German kings were crowned.

Tours of the cathedral are available, but also visit the Aachen Cathedral Treasury. It stores silver and gold jewelled relics and other artifacts relating to Charlemagne or medieval church art. Rathaus Aachen, the Gothic-Baroque style town hall, was a seat of power and a coronation site.

The Route Charlemagne links these and other places in Aachen’s city centre; the Centre Charlemagne tells his story and more through illustrations, photos and

5. Singapore The second Asian city on the list is the little dot of Singapore. The famous Orchard Road shines with its luxury brands, the newlyrenovated Funan has retail stores, dining venues, theatre, and even cycling tracks, and the 24-hour open Mustafa Centre has a stockpile of everything. Even Singapore’s Changi Airport is a shopping destination, so you can start the moment your plane touches down. specialty areas for niche items.

4. London Another usual suspect for shoppers with a score of 8 out of 10. London is a mecca of high-end boutiques, flagship stores, classic brands, bookstores, and art galleries.

From elegant hats and fancy shoes to tailored suits and

6. Sydney From The Rocks to the Queen Victoria Building to the chic neighbourhood of Surry Hills to the souvenir shops and weekend markets, Sydney is also a great contender if you’re looking for a shoppingforward holiday. It has made it to the list with a score of 6.17. Pro tip: buy jewellry with opals — Australia produces a lion share of the precious

videos.

Elisenbrunnen, a neoclassical pavilion, draws water from the hot springs (be careful if touching), but experience the benefits of the springs firsthand at Carolus Thermen Bad Aachen’s indoor and outdoor thermal pools.

Meanwhile, an archaeological site at the park Elisengarten shows layers of settlements in Aachen, starting with Roman times.

Aachen is known for Printen, a spicy [rm and dark-colored gingerbread; buy some from one of Nobis Printen’s bakeries. Taste a slice of reisfladen, a rice pudding cake at Café van den Daele, or order a dessert with coffee at Aachener Café Haus or Leni Liebt Kaffee. At Postwagen, a circa 1902 wooden restaurant, try the Aachen-style sauerbraten (a pot roast). stone and it’s the national gemstone of the country.

7. New York Is it surprising that New York, the city of the famous Fifth Avenue and the host of the head-turning fashion week, is number seven on this list?

The Big Apple has big chain brands, independent stores, luxury designer boutiques, and everything in between you can possibly imagine.

8. Toronto Luxury boutiques, vintage stores, and art galleries give shoppers the best of glam and hip – that’s why Toronto made it to this list.

9. Madrid The 1916 Mercado de San Miguel is a favorite attraction in Madrid. There are more places for shoppers to explore — El Corte Inglés department store, shopping outlets at Las Rozas Village, and the vibrant Gran Via street. Don’t forget to stop at the largest Zara store in the world in the city’s financial district.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

A king, a queen and a Princess Eadie I was in the UK when the 96-year-old Queen Elizabeth 11 died. I was in the UK to meet a 10-day-old princess also called Elizabeth. Well, not really but sort of. The princess in question, my first granddaughter, is actually called Eadie. However, she’s called Eadie after my late sister Eadie whose real, and proper, name was Elizabeth. My sister Eadie ended up being called Eadie because her slightly older sisters couldn’t quite get their tongues around Elizabeth (tricky for a two and four-year-old, you’ll agree) And so, Elizabeth, melded into Eadie and now once again the name Eadie will reverberate throughout our family.

I could not have been more delighted with the name. My late sister Eadie was a mighty woman with a heart of gold who would,

literally, give you the blouse off her back and whatever money she had in her purse. Plus, she was beautiful.

As is our little Princess Eadie (we would say that, wouldn’t we?) But she is.

Plus she is quiet and angelically placid except, of course, when sustenance is required. Other than that she is an absolute treasure.

I have no doubt that Princess Eadie will grow up to be a mighty woman like her grandaunt before her and like the late Queen Elizabeth.

And it won’t matter that she’ll speak with a Welsh accent – once she’s healthy and happy we won’t mind though it would be a bonus if she were to marry a billionaire with property in the Caribbean where we, her grandparents could, in our very old age, retire to once or twice a year!

Princess Eadie, needless to say, doesn’t reside in a palace but lives near the scenic town of Conwy in North Wales with her threeyear old brother Ollie, and her mam and dad. Conwy, like Kilkenny, boasts a magnificent castle and is famous for its mussels, so famous in fact that in the harbour there is a two-metre-tall monument encapsulating clusters of mussels sculpted, and wait for this, from Kilkenny limestone!

The plaque on the wall reads: “Mytilus Edulis (the Blue Mussel), Graeme Mitcheson, Kilkenny Limestone.” I love that connect.

Already I have some photos of Princess Eadie beside that sculpture, a wonderful reminder of her ancestry.

Royal times

We couldn’t, of course, go anywhere in Wales without seeing the Queen. Pubs,

Photo by Jack Moore

restaurants, shops, all featured photographs of Her Majesty, some of her as the beautiful 25-year-old when she assumed the throne, others as the stately, elegant lady of later years. I, personally, had great time for her late Majesty. I very much appreciated her visit to Ireland back in 2011 and her laying a wreath in the Garden of Remembrance.

I also have great affection for the Crown as my late mother, who looked quite like the Queen Mother (ie. Elizabeth’s mum), occasionally dressed as her when St Mary’s Old Folks Club hosted a fancy dress party. My mother loved the Royals but why wouldn’t she; her father after all, was an Englishman!

Which makes me partially British (but that’s another story entirely) And so to King Charles 111 and we may remem-

ber seeing him swing a hurl with our own royal, King Henry, in the castle grounds back in 2017, his visit yet another gesture of goodwill between our two countries. I have no idea how Charles 111 will fare out on the world stage (or even the English stage) but I do wish him well.

As an aside it’s worth remembering that King Charles 1 was responsible for making Kilkenny the capital of ALL Ireland! For seven short years! Charles was a pathetic, spendthrift king who clashed with Parliament resulting in civil war which Parliament, under one Oliver Cromwell (no friend of Ireland’s) won and Charles was duly beheaded.

While that civil war raged the Irish set up their own parliament here in Kilkenny, known as the Confederation of Kilkenny (1642

- 1649) After Cromwell won the civil war he turned his eyes to Ireland and events there. His response was merciless, unbridled, bloody slaughter. When Cromwell died and King Charles 11 reclaimed the throne he had Cromwell’s corpse exhumed and beheaded! His head hung on a pole outside Westminster Hall for 20 years! There’ll be none of that carry-on under Charles 111.

I do hope, however, that whatever ‘events’ come his way that he, like his mother, will see them through and that, figuratively speaking, he will not lose his head!

Finally, the Queen engaged with 15 prime ministers, 14 American presidents and seven popes. Now, try naming them all!

See Paul Hopkins Global Report, Page 22

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Global Report Ireland and the Crown have had an on-off relationship going back aeons, a relationship drenched in blood, the murder and mayhem of despots and devil-makers drunk on the audacity of religious megalomania and misanthropy on both sides of a divide that demands no retelling here. But a love/hate affair it has ever been, in a long, unforgiving time of warfare and madness.

Officially, we were supposed to ignore it, the coronation of Elizabeth II that is — meant to be an event of supreme indifference to the citizens of De Valera’s Ireland. Ireland’s Ambassador to London, Frederick Boland, attended but made clear he wasn’t going to enjoy it, and the official Irish response to the affair was what Queen’s University Belfast academic Gillian McIntosh calls “measured”.

Cardinal D’Alton, then Primate of Ireland, issued a statement expressing the hope that the country would be “restored to its natural unity” during the reign of the new Queen.

“There was quite a lot of hostility towards it,” says journalist Mary Kenny, who studied the relationship between the Irish and the British Crown for her book Crown And Shamrock: Love and Hate Between Ireland and the British Monarchy (New Island Books).

Unofficially, of course we loved it. Unofficially, we lapped it up, every detail, every epaulette and cummerbund, every title, regiment and crowned head.

When Queen Elizabeth II ascended the British throne in 1952, her empire from the West Indies to the Far East was in its final stages of decline, having lost the crown’s leading dominion, India, five years prior.

Having reigned for 70 years, she was the longest-serving of any British monarch, beating Queen Victoria’s 63 years.

Just this spring, she celebrated a Platinum Jubilee in 2022, marked by four days of festivities. If the two queens were widely popular figureheads, both seen as national grandmothers by the end of their reigns, they ruled over very different Britains. Queen Victoria oversaw a period of in-

A love/hate affair Paul Hopkins on the people of Ireland’s affection for the late Queen Elizabeth dustrial and military change – and the rapid expansion of the British Empire to global domination.

Elizabeth oversaw the empire’s diminishment and Britain’s struggle to define itself in the postwar era from a superpower to a bit nation in the British Isles. Her death, at the age of 96, comes at a time of great uncertainty with war having returned to Europe, a major economic crisis looming and threatening to plunge

many into poverty, and turbulence in British politics in the wake of Brexit and the pandemic.

At the core of ordinary Irish people’s affection for the late Queen Elizabeth, a remarkable woman in many ways, was “the Irish tradition of being interested in people, clan and family. In dynasty,” says Kenny.

Royal watchers in Ireland — and my own mother was an avid one — followed Eliza-

beth through many travails, personal and political. We have binged on Netflix’s The Crown. We had shown what Kenny calls a “sympathetic identification” with her as a wife and mother.

Our interest may well have been fuelled by a relative lack of pageantry when first a new republic. The people who provided glamour back then were the Catholic Church. The religious processions of the 1950s were beautiful, exquisite dis-

plays, but apart from that and the odd Hollywood film star, there was a vacuum.

So, it was towards Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, Sandringham and Balmoral that many of us in the Republic of Ireland turned for our glitz fix. And so it was with Princess Diana, first wife of King Charles III. We Irish did not escape succumbing to her beauty and innocent charm, long before we thought the Brits ‘okay’ after Queen Eliza-

beth’s address at Dublin Castle in 2011.

Women here admired the Queen, if even secretly, but loved Diana, admired her fashion and looks, respected her motherhood and her many charitable works. The same young women empathised with Diana during her battle with bulimia and depression and with her sad excuse of a marriage.

This writer loved it when she once said: “They say it is better to be poor and happy than rich and miserable, but how about a compromise like moderately rich and just moody?”

We watched the processions and the State occasions, but we followed the family dramas, too. We knew that the Queen Mother loathed the Duchess of Windsor, we felt for Princess Margaret when she wasn’t allowed to marry Captain Townsend, we recoiled when the IRA murdered Lord Mountbatten and many wept unashamedly when they heard of Diana’s death in that Paris car crash in 1997.

The high point of Ireland’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth came with the royal visit of 2011. Once again, it was the human element that won out over political or cultural concerns. Irish people responded to her warmly as a person and were delighted to see her genuine response to us and our country, not to mention the cupla focal. Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald the other day was fulsome in her praise of Elizabeth’s tole in the process of (relative) peace and reconciliation on the island of Ireland. Likewise, Michelle O’Neill. Taoiseach Micheál Martin generously conceded that there were “those on this island who have lost their Queen”.

Once Elizabeth actually set foot in the country, something changed. The Irish tradition of cead mile failte took over — it’s in our DNA. A common reaction to the visit was that Ireland’s own ceremonial apparatus — the bands, troops and protocol experts — brought it all off so splendidly.

Meanwhile, the new monarch has spoken often of his ‘affinity’ to Ireland, so we can expect more than just one visit from Charles.

King Charles will drive his country without licence King Charles III will travel without a passport and drive without a licence, own all the mute swans in England and may continue a tradition of celebrating his birthday twice a year.

Here’ some unusual facts about Britain’s new monarch.

allow the bearer to pass freely without let or hindrance and to afford the bearer such assistance and protection as may be necessary.”

For the same reason, the king will be the only person in Britain who can drive without a licence.

No licence or passport King Charles III will travel overseas without a passport because, unlike other members of the royal family, he will not need one as a document will be issued in his name.

The preamble in every document will now state: “His Britannic Majesty’s Secretary

Two birthdays Queen Elizabeth II had two birthdays - her actual birthday on April 21, which was held in private, and an o^cial public celebration on the second Tuesday in June, when the summery weather tends to be better for outdoor parades.

As Charles’ birthday is at

of State requests and requires in the name of His Majesty all those whom it may concern to

the start of winter on November 14, it is likely he will also have an “o^cial birthday” in a warmer month.

The public celebration - the Trooping the Colour - dates back more than 250 years and involves more than 1,400 soldiers, 200 horses and 400 musicians in a display of military precision.

The Royal Air Force concludes proceedings with a by-past while members of the royal family watch from the balcony of Buckingham Palace in central London.

No voting The British monarch does

not vote and cannot stand for election. As head of state, he or she must remain strictly neutral in political affairs.

They are involved in the formal opening of parliamentary sessions, approve legislation from parliament and hold weekly meetings with the prime minister.

Every year, royal rights are exercised on stretches of the River Thames, where the swans are counted in a tradition that has now become a conservation measure.

The royal prerogative also applies to sturgeon, dolphins and whales in British waters.

Swans, dolphins and sturgeon The British monarch does not just reign over people.

Since the 12th century, unmarked mute swans in open waters across England and Wales are considered the property of the monarch.

Royal warrant Issued to those who regularly supply the monarch with goods and services, the warrant is a great honour and a boost for sales. Companies awarded the warrant are authorised to use the royal arms on their goods.

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Culture Night invites everyone everywhere, on one joyful night, to discover and celebrate all that our culture is today • Explore Rothe House, spend time in the house, courtyards and gardens with their knowledgeable guides and members of Kilkenny Archaeological Society.

• Young Irish Film Makers, St Joseph’s Studios presents ‘Youth Film & Animation’ a screening of young peoples’ short films from across the country.

YIFM Film Makers at Work

Culture Night is a national moment celebrating all that makes up the richness and diversity of culture in Ireland today; connecting people to cultural activities locally and nationally and opening up pathways to ongoing engagement. Culture Night is developed in partnership with local authorities and many other organisations and individuals across the island.

Culture Night is about openness, discovery, celebration and belonging. Doors are

opened late and special and unique events are programmed at participating locations, online and broadcast.

All activities are free.

Once again County Kilkenny will offer a number of outstanding events for all ages and interests to enjoy.

City events include: • BG Block Party with live DJs in the Butler Gallery gardens and late night entry to the various exhibitions and much more.

• Kilkenny Castle will open its doors to the Period Rooms of the Castle and will host a live performance of medieval and renaissance music by Siobhan Armstrong.

• Essie May’s Yoga Studio, Kieran Street are delighted to invite you to take part in a mandala building workshop using all natural materials.

• The Knitted Together Project with The Kilkenny Arts Office have organised an exhibition trail of specially knitted blankets which will be on display

in various charity shops in Kilkenny City and County.

• The Kilkenny Arts Office Curator In Residence Programme will host an exhibition RESILIENCE which will also involve a number of talks and panel discussions at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre.

• The Kilkenny Famine Experience at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, is a free AV tour that will guide people around the buildings of the former Workhouse.

County Events include: • Jail Birds- An Evening of Jewellery and Metalwork in Thomastown Community Centre with the Design and Crafts Council of Ireland.

• The Wonder of Culture with Clogh Writers at Moneenroe, Castlecomer will focus on the theme of coal mining and local culture through various artforms such as poetry, song and dance.

• Ionad Lachtain, Freshford will be hosting an evening of music, heritage and art.

• TADA! Theatre Thomastown will be hosting fun drama workshops for different age groups from 6 years to adults.

• Theatrical Entertainment

and Eco-Art Explorations at Kcat Arts Centre, immersive entertainment at their performance lab and explorations of earth-conscious art making techniques.

• Poetry By The Barrow, a poetry reading group invite you to come relax in the quaint surroundings of Mick Doyles Pub, Graignamanagh to listen to some poetry.

For more detailed information on all events please visit: https://culturenight.ie/ events/kilkenny/ OR Printed brochures are available from all venues mentioned above and from Kilkenny Arts Office, phone 0567794547 or email deirdre. southey@kilkennycoco.ie for your copy. https://www.facebook. com/Culture-Night-Kilkenny-531214846946625 Sign up to the Culture Night Newsletter Tell us about your Culture Night #CultureNight #OícheChultúir #OneNightForAll #OícheDarSaol

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MacDonagh Junction EDUCATION - Create your future

YOUNG

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from 1 to 4pm

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Get down to the Young Food Producers Market at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre to meet Kilkenny food producers of the future.

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Sleep ‘rough’ to help country’s growing homeless Focus Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy are calling on people across the country to sign up and take part in this year’s Shine A Light Night on Friday, October 14 by sleeping out in their homes, gardens or workplaces to raise vital funds to help end family homelessness in Ireland.

Now in its 10th year, the

annual fundraising event, proudly supported by Bord Gáis Energy was launched today by former Dublin footballer Philly McMahon. Philly will take part in this year’s sleep-out and is urging others to get involved by signing up and sleeping out on the night.

The goal this year is to raise €1.5m with all funds going to-

wards vital services to prevent families in Ireland from becoming homeless, whilst creating sustainable long-term solutions to homelessness in Ireland.

According to the latest government figures, 10,568 people are currently in emergency accommodation as of June 2022, making this year’s

sleep-out more important than ever.

People across Kilkenny and elsewhere can stand in solidarity with and show their support for those experiencing homelessness by signing up to sleep out for Shine a Light Night on shinealight. focusireland.ie. On the same night, business leaders will

‘Greater need’ in funding for food and drink industries Food Drink Ireland (FDI), the Ibec group representing the food and drink sector, has published its Budget 2023 submission calling for greater ambition in funding supports for the sector from the Brexit Adjustment Reserve.

Paul Kelly, FDI Director, said: “The food and drink sector is deeply resilient but is experiencing severe and unprecedented inflationary pressures across most cost headings due to a combination of macro external factors which include global and domestic supply chain constraints, the war in Ukraine as well as Brexit and Covid-19.

“While manufacturers may have achieved some cost recovery in the market, this has fallen greatly short of cost inflation as evidenced by the massive increases in energy and commodity costs versus the lower level of food inflation recorded in the Consumer Price Index,” he said.

“FDI’s Budget 2023 recommendations are framed to ensure that Ireland’s most important indigenous manufacturing sector can control its cost base whilst also innovating and improving both productivity and sustainability.”

To date the partnership between Focus Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy has supported over 7,000 families and directly prevented 458 vulnerable families from becoming homeless. * For further information visit shinealight.focusireland.ie

Our Edward new Hoover brand envoy

Mr Kelly said greater ambition was required in drawing down Brexit Adjustment Reserve funding for the sector and the Government’s Capital Investment Scheme needed to be increased well beyond €100 million and extended to all food and drink manufacturing sectors.

“To address high levels of energy inflation and deliver large scale emissions reductions in the food processing sector, SEAI supports must be expanded and made more accessible.

In addition, the accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment need to be increased to a super allowance of 130%,” he said.

Other recommendations in the FDI Budget 2023 submission include: • Introduce a State-supported export credit insurance scheme.

• Introduce a €5 million reformulation fund for the Irish food and drinks sector.

• Extend the Foreign Earnings Deduction to more markets.

• Make the 9% rate of VAT for the Experience Economy permanent.

• Reduce excise on alcohol products by at least €50 million.

Free contraception for women aged 17 to 25 Women aged 17-25 are to get free contraception with immediate effect and will be entitled to free prescriptions as well as consultations with their GP. The measure was promised by Health Minister Stephen Donnelly and follows consultations

sleep out at events taking place across the country at the Law Society of Ireland, Blackhall Place, Dublin, in Limerick at The Hunt Museum and on Cork’s historic Spike Island. Companies can also sign up to support the initiative by pledging to fundraise and sleep out at their workplace.

with GPs on the fees they will be paid for delivering the service.

The scheme will cost around €25m to fund.

Costs for the contraceptive pill and similar repeat prescription contraceptives are about €65-€100 every six months.

Kilkenny’s renowned chef Edward Hayden has been announced as the new Brand Ambassador for domestic appliance manufacturer Hoover in Ireland.

The move will see the chef, food writer and culinary lecturer who is very well-known to audiences from his weekly cookery slots on Virgin Media’s Ireland AM, promote the brand’s built-in cooking credentials and showcase its range of cooling products. This will run across social media and digital activities with influencer content and recipe footage and attendance at

trade and media days at the heart of the activities.

Hoover are also excited to supply The Edward Hayden School of Cookery with several products from its ‘Collection 7’ cooking range including warming drawers, induction hobs and hood and within its cooling range, a two-door fridge freezer and wine cellar, to support recreational cookery classes for both the novice and experienced home cook.

“I’m a big believer in having the finest cooking appliances to work with. It makes cooking much more enjoyable and also helps so much when demonstrating

cooking skills to others,” Mr Hayden told The Kilkenny Observer.

“I’m very proud to be working with Hoover and having their products installed in the Edward Hayden School of Cookery is a fantastic addition to the business and its teaching ethos. I’m looking forward to using them and to showing others the fantastic appliances and the technology that they offer,” he said.

In welcoming Edward to the role, Rob Pearse, Commercial Director at Hoover Ireland, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Edward who is a well-known name in

Irish households. We are looking forward to seeing Edward use Hoover’s cooking appliances and demonstrate their features to others. We know that he will bring the same passion he has for cooking to his partnership with Hoover.

“From ovens that will help even the most nervous of cooks with built-in recipes and step-by-step guides to professional products for budding chefs, we’re confident that consumers of all competencies will have an appetite for a Hoover cooking model.”

For more details visit www.hoover.ie

A fun run day promised in south Kilkenny The South Kilkenny Run is taking place in Ballyhale on Sunday, September 25, beginning at 9.30am with a 10 mile run, followed by a 10 km run at 10am and a 5km run/walk at 11am.

The organisers are ex-

pecting well over 200 participants to take part in the events.

The race is a fundraising event for the upcoming Ballyhale Shamrocks Development at Páirc Na Seamróg.

Thomastown Fire Services

will be there on the day on the day recording the event with a drone. Also hurlers including TJ Reid, Henry Shefflin, Eoin Cody and Colin Fennelly will be there on the morning with Donna Dunne who will be doing a

pre-run fun warm-up with all the children before the 5 km run.

There will be also refreshment and the local hall afterwards. * Further information from John Darcy on 087 2473002

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Feature

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Kilkenny’s Holy Wells

Ladyswell-Ballyda This well in Danesfort Parish is a real sight to behold. You will find it two fields in from the Ladyswell Road. The gate leading into it is on a stretch of road known as Bothair na Sionnaig, 200 miles north of the old chapel.

The triangular shaped well is located close to a tributary of the King’s River which dries up in the summer months.

It has two stone steps and a centuries old Mass Rock. A priest is believed to have died here in Penal Times, a circle with the shape of a cross marking the spot where he breathed his last.

According to legend, the well dried up only once in its long history…when somebody violated its sacred waters by washing pigs’ entrails in it. The Blessed Virgin is said to have appeared at the well at various times in the 19th century. As part of a traditional pilgrimage that persists to the present day, the Rosary is said at five specified points around the well, each marked by skeaugh bushes.

The pilgrimage begins on August 15th and runs to nine days. Up to the mid-forties, stalls selling ice cream, apples, and confectionery featured at these religious outings. The water here is also reputed to

Thanks to MacDonagh Junction

The Kilkenny Photographic Society present Marion Acreman with a framed image of the Harry Potter train,

Glencoe, Scotland captured

by Bernie Kelly (KPS)., in recognition of the support of MacDonagh Junction hosting

the annual KPS photographic exhibition last month Also pictured is Denis O’Reilly Chairman KPS.

have curative powers.

Many people over the centuries, including in recent years, claim that eye ailments have been totally healed by the water and that other illnesses have been either cured or alleviated by it.

When I visited the well in 2005 it was nicely preserved and maintained to the highest degree of aesthetic attraction

by Timmy Murphy of Ballyda.

His work is a masterpiece of landscape artistry, calling to mind Biblical descriptions of what Heaven might be like.

The late Mary Breene of Ballyredden is remembered locally as the woman who helped to promote the site’s heritage value and keep alive the traditions associated with it.

Don’t forget your cameras and water bottles when you call to Ballyda!

Moling’s Well Three miles North West of Listerlin in South Kilkenny you will find Moling’s Well, at Mullinakill. It is called after Saint Moling, who lived a hermitlike existence in the hills of that district, before leaving it to become Bishop of Ferns.

His cave can still be seen, and visited, in the quiet valley that contains it. The well is located further down this valley at the foot of a gently rolling hill.

Overlooking the well is an alder tree that the saint himself is supposed to have planted.

According to legend, the tree has renewed itself over the centuries and its wood is be-

lieved to be a safeguard against fire. The tree overshadows a large altar shaped rock that stands beside the well. The Alder seems to be protecting the sacred site.

Mass was celebrated here in Moling’s time, and later by the Cistercian Monks of Jerpoint Abbey. The tradition is still

upheld today, with capacity crowds turning out for services.

In the well stream is an old baptismal font that once graced Mullinakill Church.

Something else that caught my attention when I visited the well is a stone shelf containing scores of relics left there in homage to the saint, or to add weight to silent prayers offered at the well: Small statues, rosary beads, crucifixes, and cameos have accumulated here over the decades.

The waters of St. Moling’s Well are reputed to cure ulcers, a condition that troubled the saint himself and from which he gained relief by bathing his feet in the well. Pilgrims have reported other ailments being cured too, such as migraine, bunions, heartburn, and back aches.

Moling died in 696, but the people of Mullinakill have never forgotten him. In 1959, they erected a statute of him at the top of the hill overlooking the well and the Alder tree.

That was after landscaping and reclaiming the spot from a forest of weeds and bushes.

Today it is a scene of breathtaking beauty. An atmosphere of blessed peace and tranquillity pervades the hillside around this hallowed site.

Moling’s well is a must see if you have even the remotest interest in holy wells. Be sure to have an extra roll of film for your camera. (Pictures show Ladyswell, Ballyda and the monument at Moling’s Well.)

- John Fitzgerald

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Farmers ‘must cut’ herds Dairy and beef farmers must cut their herd numbers in half, plant enough trees to cover Co Kilkenny three times over, and rewet almost all its drained grasslands, to reach its legally binding ‘net zero’ carbon target by 2050.

So say University of Limerick and University of Galway scientists, in the journal Nature Sustainability.

“There is no easy way out of this,” says Dr David Styles, associate professor in Agricultural Sustainability at the University of Galway.

“If we are serious about getting to climate neutrality, there has to be huge abatement achieved in agriculture.

“It’s very difficult to completely get rid of methane

(greenhouse gas) emissions from animals.”

The only way to reduce the scale of such change, says Dr Colm Duffy, a scientist at the University of Limerick who led the modelling research effort, would be through new technology that can limit agri-emissions.

The Government’s Climate Action Plan demands net-ze-

ro greenhouse gas emissions for Ireland is achieved no later than 2050 and with a 51pc reduction required by 2030.

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 37pc of Ireland’s emissions in 2021 were generated by the agricultural sector.

Dr Duffy and Dr Styles assessed the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from

Movie about campaigner Vicky to open IndieCork film festival Vicky, the award winning Irish documentary about cervical smear campaigner Vicky Phelan, will open the 10th IndieCork festival at the Gate Cinema in Cork City on October 2, ahead of its general nationwide release on October 7 through Volta Pictures.

In 2018 on the steps of the High Court in Dublin, Mooncoin native Vicky Phelan gave a now infamous address where she exposed the CervicalCheck scandal. A subsequent investigation revealed over 220 women were affected, while 17 women had already died.

The movie Vicky is a profound and intimate journey into the Kilkenny woman’s fight to expose the truth. It also delves into Vicky’s personal fight to extend her life.

Commenting on the news that Vicky is to open this year’s IndieCork festival, co-director Mick Hannigan said it’= was a fitting choice: “Vicky is a powerful film telling the story of an extraordinary Irish woman and her fight for justice. It’s an absolute honour to open our 10th anniversary festival with the film. As well as being the biggest showcase of Independent filmmaking in Ireland, IndieCork prides itself on platforming female directors. Vicky, directed by the brilliant Sasha King, is one of many films in this year’s programme with women at the helm, and we’re delighted about that.”

Director of Vicky, Sasha King said: “It took a tribe of formidable and determined women to help this film see a release. And for that, I am very grateful. We are very excited to bring our film to the big screen in Cork.”

IndieCork runs at the Gate Cinema from October 2 to the 9th with a diverse programme of international, Irish and local filmmakers.

In addition, there will be an online offering from October 2 to the 16th.

850 possible land use combinations to identify those options that are capable of meeting Ireland’s 2050 net zero target.

Out of the 850 random scenarios they studied, only 38, or 4.4%, successfully helped the agricultural sector reach net zero and go further — as will be required of agriculture — as emissions sink.

“The successful scenarios demanded substantial cattle herd reduction, a dramatic increase in rates of afforestation, and re-wetting most drained organic soils,” says Dr Duffy.

High rates of tree-planting, up to 500,000 hectares, or 5,000 km sq — equal to an area three times the size of Co Kilkenny.

Change a life: become a foster carer Calling all Kilkenny parents and guardians ... could you be a kind and loving foster carer?

Tusla, the Child and Family agency has launched a Foster Care Recruitment Campaign. The aim of the campaign is to recruit new foster carers to meet the growing demand for placements, as a result of the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the impact of Covid-19 in communities across Ireland.

Ireland is a world leader in foster care, and across Ireland 3,991 foster carers currently open their homes to 5,248* children. In 2021, 219 new foster carers joined Tusla, and 592 children entered foster care for the first time. However, this figure falls far short of the current need for foster care placements.

Speaking about the campaign, Patricia Finlay, Regional Chief Officer, Dublin Mid Leinster and National

Lead for Fostering, Tusla said: “Every year, hundreds of children and young people come into care, which means the need for new foster families continues to increase.

“This year more than ever, due to the current humanitarian crisis and the impact of Covid-19 on our communities, Tusla urgently requires more carers,” she said.

There are many types of foster care such as short-

term, long-term, emergency placements, respite fostering, and other supports for young people who need them. This means there is a choice of ways to foster, so you’ll be able to find something that suits your skills, life stage and family dynamic best.”

Tusla says its foster carers provide a safe, secure and stable home environment for the most vulnerable in our society. Foster carers are a core part of ensuring chil-

dren who need foster care are cared for in a loving, home environment, it says.

It can take just one adult to contribute to a child’s wellbeing and happiness.

Change a life. Become a foster carer. * To find out more about becoming a foster carer, see fostering.ie, call freephone 1800 226 771, email tusla.fostering@tusla.ie or join one of two online information sessions on September 21 and 22.

Treasure trove from Kilkenny now available online The Kilkenny Archaeological Society (KAS) has published an annual journal, Old Kilkenny Review, since 1947.

Papers of historical and archaeological interest, together with book reviews, the proceedings of the society, and obituaries are included.

A project to digitise back issues of the journal (19472012), helped by funding from the Heritage Council, has been underway and the

first batch of articles covering the period to 1979 went online in 2021 with those up to 1999 now being released. The actual digitisation process was carried out by Anne-Karoline Distel the society’s webmaster and content manager.

This involved taking apart the binding, cutting and trimming the pages from an issue of the journal and feeding these into a duplex scanner.

Following this procedure, the

metadata and keywords are added. The abstracts, a synopsis of what the articles contain, were prepared by KAS volunteers and these are also uploaded onto the website.

The two decades of the journal’s content now being released are a glimpse into Kilkenny’s past. An example of one such article from the 1980 issue, traces the history of the Helsham family and Blanchfields (lands

in Archersrath) through four centuries and the remaining largely unchanged Georgian Hebron house.

However, in its recent history, the house, on the outskirts of Kilkenny city, was in the news for the wrong reasons.

The heritage house had lain derelict for some time and the surrounding lands were the subject of illegal dumping.

That problem having been addressed, by the local au-

thority, the house and lands were lately being offered for sale.

The digital Old Kilkenny Review, with its illustrated articles, is a treasure trove of Kilkenny’s archaeology and history. * The articles for the period 1980-1999, along with those for 1947-1979, are available to view at: https://kilkennyarchaeologicalsociety.ie/ okr-index/

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Feature

­

Memorial M Kilkenny the community

Photos by Pat Shortall.

On Sunday September 4th, members of the theatre circle in Kilkenny gathered to remember those from their community who had died.

Welcoming all those present at St Mary’s Cathedral, Fr Richard

Scriven said it was a pleasure to remember those from the theatrical world, and indeed he himself had fond memories of shows being staged in place like The Friary Hall and St Kieran’s college.

“Those hold great memories and it is very

nice to see some of those performers here this evening”, commented the Saint Mary’s Cathedral administrator.

Many of the societies from the world of stage were present at the 5.30 pm mass which was celebrated by Fr Richard Scriven assisted by

Fr Laurence who is visiting from Africa.

Readings on the day were read by Billy Holmes and Clare Gibbs while the Responsorial psalms were read by Ursula Egan.

Prayers of the Faithful were offered by Olivia Wall, Maria Kelly and Jim Maher.

­

The Communion reflection was read by Olivia Smith.

Sacred music was provided

by St Mary’s organist John O’Neill.

Following the mass, the group gathered outside the church and reminisced about shows past amid much laughter.

The mass was organised

by Lake Productions and a spokesperson said that it was important that we remember all those who sowed the theatrical seed and passed on the stage baton. It is envisaged that the memorial mass will now become an annual event.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Spinach, sweet potato and lentil dhal

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 35 mins Serves: 4

A comforting vegan one-pot recipe that counts for there of your fivea-day! You can’t go wrong with this iron-rich, low-fat, low-calorie supper.

Ingredients • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 1 red onion, finely chopped • 1 garlic clove, crushed • thumb-sized piece ginger, peeled and finely chopped • 1 red chilli, finely chopped • 1½ tsp ground turmeric • 1½ tsp ground cumin • 2 sweet potatoes (about 400g/14oz), cut into even chunks • 250g red split lentils • 600ml vegetable stock • 80g bag of spinach • 4 spring onions, sliced on the diagonal, to serve • ½ small pack of Thai basil, leaves torn, to serve Method STEP 1 Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a widebased pan with a tight-fitting lid.

STEP 2 Add 1 finely chopped red onion and cook over a low heat for 10

mins, stirring occasionally, until softened.

STEP 3 Add 1 crushed garlic clove, a finely chopped thumb-sized piece of ginger and 1 finely chopped red chilli, cook for 1 min, then add 1½ tsp ground turmeric and 1½ tsp ground cumin and cook for 1 min more.

STEP 4 Turn up the heat to medium, add 2 sweet potatoes, cut into even chunks, and stir everything together so the potato is coated in the spice mixture.

STEP 6 Bring the liquid to the boil, then reduce the heat, cover and cook for 20 mins until the lentils are tender and the potato is just holding its shape.

STEP 5 Tip in 250g red split lentils, 600ml vegetable stock and some seasoning.

STEP 7 Taste and adjust the seasoning, then gently stir in the 80g spinach.

Once wilted, top with the 4

diagonally sliced spring onions and ½ small pack torn basil leaves to serve.

STEP 8 Alternatively, allow to cool completely, then divide between airtight containers and store in the fridge for a healthy lunchbox.

Spiced lentil and butternut squash soup Prep: 10 mins Cook: 40 mins Serves: 4-6 Cook a big batch of this filling spiced lentil and squash soup and freeze the leftovers for a speedy supper another day. It’s healthy and low in fat.

Ingredients • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 onions, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • ¼ tsp hot chilli powder • 1 tbsp ras el hanout • 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut into 2cm pieces

• 100g red lentils • 1l hot vegetable stock • 1 small bunch coriander, leaves chopped, plus extra to serve • dukkah (see tip) and natural yogurt, to serve Method STEP 1 Heat the oil in a large flameproof casserole dish or saucepan over a medium-high heat.

Fry the onions with a pinch of salt for 7 mins, or until softened and just caramelised. Add the garlic, chilli and ras el hanout, and cook for 1 min more.

STEP 2 Stir in the squash and lentils. Pour over the stock and season to taste.

Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, covered, for 25 mins or until the squash is soft. Blitz the soup with a stick blender until smooth, then season to taste. To freeze, leave to cool completely and transfer to large freezerproof bags.

STEP 3 Stir in the coriander leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Serve topped with the dukkah, yogurt and extra coriander leaves.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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The Crown viewers surge following Queen’s death

Following the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, The Crown on Netflix sees a surge in viewers streaming the series, the latest season of which has been temporarily halted in production as a mark of respect to the passing of the monarch.

Viewership for Netflix series chronicling the life of Elizabeth has risen up to 800% in the UK and Ireland, with huge numbers watching in the US, France and Australia.

The Crown chronicles the life of the Queen over several decades, beginning in the late 1940s before her father King George VI died and she ascended to the throne. The award-winning series, which premiered in 2016, has garnered huge viewership and critical acclaim for Netflix.

Queen Elizabeth died

in Scotland on September 8, ending a historic 70-year reign. Her death has prompted emotional reactions inside the UK and across the world. In Britain, a 10-day mourning period was announced and the Queen’s coffin was due to lie in state in London from now until Monday, September 19 when her funeral will take place.

Between September 9 and 11, The Crown’s viewership rose more than 800% in the United Kingdom and Ireland compared with the previous Friday to Sunday period, according to data from Whip Media.

In the United States viewership more than quadrupled during this timeframe, while in France The Crown had more than three times the viewers than it did the

Ricky Gervais. Nevertheless, Lee also mused on this chicken-egg debacle by comically saying: “I don’t suppose Robert Oppenheimer felt great about having created the atomic bomb.”

All that being said, despite what Lee has said about the show (and many others have joined him), it is also beloved by millions, has a huge following, many fans have said it has helped them cope with grief, and it

Advertisement TV & Streaming

to stream right now on Netflix 1. FEEL GOOD

Comedian Mae Martin’s Feel Good (2020-2021) really does try to do what it says on the tin. It follows the repressed George (Charlotte Ritchie) as she falls for Martin’s Mae after seeing her stand-up show. Their London- based romance sees George grappling with coming out to her middle-class friends and family, while Canadian Mae has a drug problem that makes their love even more difficult. A confidently told story with its sense of humour nailed from the start, Feel Good exudes sweetness and grace.

2. SEX EDUCATION

Binging Sex Education (2019—) is a no-brainer: The self- aware, John Hughes-possessed mishmash of American and British high school culture is a joyful breeze to watch.

We follow Otis (Asa Butterfield), the son of a sex therapist (Gillian Anderson), as he embarks on his sexual awakening. The explicit sex talk and scenes are addressed in refreshingly healthy and honest ways. Built around a diverse cast with pure charisma, the show gets even bigger in Season 3. on the previous weekend.

Globally, viewership was nearly four times higher this past weekend than it was the previous weekend.

At the time of writing, The Crown was among the top ten trending TV shows on Netflix Australia.

Following news of the Queen’s death, Netflix confirmed it would pause production on its fifth and final season of The Crown, which was due to portray the royal family through to the early 2000s.

Meanwhile, Season 5 of the hit series is set to premiere in November and will depict the early to mid 1990s. Imelda Staunton [pictured above] will take on the role of the Queen, which has been previously played by Claire Foy and Olivia Colman.

The series won 11 Emmys in 2021, including outstanding drama series. It won two Emmys in 2020, five in 2018 and three in 2017.

The fifth series had been billed as the last of the critically acclaimed show, despite screenwriter Peter Morgan having initially conceived it as a six-series show. At the time, he said of the decision to call time on the programme – which has been watched by more than 73m households worldwide: “At the outset, I had imagined The Crown running for six seasons, but now that we have begun work on the stories for season five it has become clear to me that this is the perfect time and place to stop.

“I’m grateful to Netflix and Sony for supporting me in this decision,” he said.

Gervais defends his After Life Ricky Gervais has hit back at British comedy writer and producer Stewart Lee calling After Life “the worst things ever made by a human” Earlier, during an interview with Rob Brydon, Stewart Lee called After Life “one of the worst things ever made by a human”. Now, that certainly invokes some crushing hyperbole.

This sorry affair was sharpened given the fact that Lee himself is somewhat of a hero and inspiration for

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has earned Gervais a pretty penny in the process.

It was this that Ricky Gervais referenced when – in the aftermath – he offered up the simple Tweet: “Watch the award-winning, record-breaking #AfterLife Now streaming on Netflix around the world.”

Alongside this rather subtle counterpunch, Gervais also liked several tweets from fans including one that stated: “I don’t even know who Stewart Lee is. How-

ever, his comments about After Life really makes him look like a sad, bitter individual.”

Then for good measure, in case all of this had been missed, The Office creator shot out a clip from After Life in which he calls someone a “fat, hairy, nosy cocksucker.” While Lee might argue this clip is a case in point of a lack of creativity, it certainly served to kill the subtlety of Ricky Gervais’ response.

3. CALL MY AGENT!

Thinking about dipping your toe into more of Netflix’s international content? French comedy Call My Agent! (2015-2020) hosts an evergrowing list of famous actors playing themselves, from French stars to Americans like Sigourney Weaver (!) in the latter seasons. But we look at the world of showbiz from the perspective of the long-sufering agents, including Camille Cottin’s scene stealing powerhouse agent Andréa Martel, who rebuffs male colleagues with breast script lines A brilliant series with four seasons poking fun at the entertainment industry (a fifth season and a TV film are on their way).

4. BOJACK HORSEMAN

When it comes to cartoons that lower your guard before gutpunching you with reflections on mental health, BoJack Horseman (2014-2020) takes the cake. Set in an LA filled with anthropomorphic animals, it follows a washed-up ex-sitcom star who tries to climb back to his former celebrity by releasing an autobiography. BoJack Horseman soon astounds you with its truths about struggling with depression and addiction on the path to getting your life back on track.

5. LUPIN

If you enjoyed Money Heist, then meet Lupin (2021—), another non-English language show with an action-packed story. This time we’re in France, where professional thief Assane Diop enacts his revenge mission on the man responsible for his father’s death. Inspired by a book about gentleman thief Arsène Lupin, Assane uses disguises, thieving know-how and a good dose of charisma to expose the wealthy and powerful Hubert Pellegrini’s crimes.

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Motors

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Motors

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Recruitment

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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Community & GAA Notes

U15S BOW OUT The Clara U15 hurlers fell at the first hurdle in Dunnamaggin on Wednesday last when bowing out to the hosts in the first round of the 2022 Roinn A championship. A tough assignment to begin with was made all the tougher by injuries to key players Philip Carrigan and Joe Power, which ruled them out.

However after two early Dunnamaggin points Clara fought back with two of their own from a Padraic Meany free and a smart Bill Kealy point after a neat pickup and an equally impressive strike. From there to the half time break it was point for point with further Clara scores coming from Davy Barcoe, Eoin Corr and Padraic Meany (2) to leave it 0-6 apiece at the break. However Clara had played with the assistance of a strong breeze and really needed a bit of a cushion at this stage. They had squandered a few opportunities but at the other end goalkeeper Orí Phelan had kept Dunnamaggin at bay with a couple of glorious saves.

Eoin Corr opened the second half scoring with a tidy point and, after Dunnamaggin had equalised with a free, Sean Byrne put Clara ahead again after a great run. Another home free tied the game again and already 10 second half minutes had elapsed and Clara were still in the hunt. That was as good as it got however as Dunnamaggin then hit an unanswered 2-4 and Clara only scored once more through a Padraic Meany free. Orí Phelan continued in top form and his saves prevented a bigger margin than the 2-13 to 0-9 result.

James Cody, Daniel Murphy, Hugh Kelly and Daniel Ryan defended well, while Clara were unlucky to lose both Tom Murphy and Conor Galvin through injury. Padraic Meany and Davy Barcoe each had their moments in midfield. John Bergin came into it more when he moved to full forward while Luke Lawlor and Sean Byrne gave it their all. The full forward line of Bill Kealy, Eoin Corr and Tom Boyle did their best with limited opportunities. A word too for the management team of Johnny Shortall, Mark Galvin, Shane Staunton and Dara Glynn who worked hard with this group for the year.

Team - Orí Phelan, Daniel Murphy, James Cody, Tom Murphy. Conor Galvin, Hugh Kelly, Daniel Ryan.

Padraic Meany, David Barcoe. John Bergin, Luke Lawlor, Sean Byrne. Bill Kealy, Eoin Corr, Tom Boyle.

Subs used Darragh Kenny, Lukas Healy, Peter Firbank, Aidan O Connell.

MISSING MINORS Clara minor hurlers made their exit from the Roinn A championship at the quarter final stage on Saturday morning in Castlecomer when they fell to the hosts 1-23 to 1-16. But they will have huge regrets about this as the hurling Gods conspired to deprive them of the services of four of their selected line out. Already down Philip Carrigan, Joe Power and Rory Glynn, they also lost Alex Firbank on the morning of the game. As well as that Tommy Delaney, who had a fantastic season for the group, was severely restricted by a painful toe injury and was just a pale shadow of his usual swashbuckling self.

These boys don’t do excuses however and they gave a performance that everyone in the club was proud of. They actually led by a point with just 8 minutes remaining, before a Michael Brennan inspired Erin’s Own went on a scoring spree that saw them take the laurels.

Michael Brennan pointed a free to open proceedings and he was to add nine more frees to that total before the end. For good measure he also shot four from play and didn’t have a single wide all day.

Fourteen points he finished with and played a huge part in this victory. The first half was hard fought and six points by Conor Hoyne, and one each by Ned Langton and Harry Boyle had Clara 0-11 to 0-8 down at the break. The game had been level four times in the half but ‘Comer had looked the slightly slicker outfit.

The second half started with a redeployed Tommy Delaney winning possession in the corner forward position, rounding his man and crossing a ball that was eventually finished to the net by Sean Carrigan.

The game was tied and back in the balance. Eight more times the teams would share parity in this half and it was impossible to predict a winner for most of it. Davy Barcoe hurled the world of ball in this half, while Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, Zach Lawlor and

Ben Murphy all had the measure of their opponents in a Clara defence where goalkeeper Cian Kelly and Hugh Kelly also put in big shifts. When Sean Carrigan put Clara a point ahead with just eight minutes left a Clara win against the odds looked very possible, but around this time Harry Boyle shipped a hard knock which curtailed his influence for the remaining time.

The younger lads on this team like Luke Lawlor, John Bergin and Eoin Corr ( all U15s) had given their all at this stage, and despite the best efforts of Conor Hoyne, Ned Langton and Sean Carrigan, it was Castlecomer who finished the stronger. Five points in a row by Michael Brennan, the first two real gems from play off either side, put them in the driving seat even before Shane Holden finished off the day with a last second goal which put a real gloss on the scoreboard for the home team.

Clara had tried everything in their power to squeeze a win from this game with substitute Dillon Cummins adding to their late effort, but it has to be said that a young Comer team deserved to take the spoils. They now have the onerous task of facing the Village in the county semi final. The Clara effort was admirable and a lot of these lads still have an U19 county final to look forward to. Well done to them on their great year and thanks to the management team of Barry Power, Brian Glynn, Trevor Cummins, Noel Kehoe and Chris Bolger for their efforts.

Team - Cian Kelly, Tommy Delaney, Zach Lawlor, Alex McDonald. Hugh Kelly, Ben Crow, Ben Murphy.

Conor Hoyne 0-9, 0-5f, Davy Barcoe. John Bergin, Ned Langton 0-2, Luke Lawlor. Harry Boyle 0-2, Sean Carrigan 1-3, Eoin Corr. Sub used Dillon Cummins.

Also Orí Phelan, Daniel Ryan, James Cody, Tom Murphy, Bill Kealy, Tom Boyle.

JUNIORS LOSE On a day that was more fit for water polo than hurling the Clara Juniors also exited the championship on Sunday in Ballyhale on a 1-19 to 0-15 scoreline. Clara had just three scorers in this game with Joe Connolly contributing 11 points, and Stephen Quinlan and Ciarán Prendergast adding a couple each. This was a game up to halftime after which Ballyhale led 1-8 to 0-9. Crucially Clara had lost Evan Whearty and Ruairí Breen through injury during this period so the bad run of luck for Clara teams over the weekend continued.

Ballyhale were slightly the better team for the second half and gradually eased ahead of Clara to advance to the next round. Best for Clara were Tom Ryan, Killian Phelan, Stephen Quinlan, Joe Connolly and Ciarán Prendergast. Plaudits too to the management team of David Mulrooney and Mick Barcoe for their efforts over the year.

Team - Jason Barcoe, Evan Whearty, Tom Ryan, James Dowling. Alan Coleman, Killian Phelan, Brandon Ryan. Stephen Quinlan 0-2, Rory O Keeffe.

Bill Cody, Joe Connolly 0-11, 0-7f, 0-1 x 65, Ruairí Breen. Jack Carrigan, Ciarán Prendergast 0-2, Dara Glynn. Subs Nick O Keeffe, James Casey.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s club lotto (Sept 6th). Numbers drawn were 3, 5, 23, 27 Bonus 6. Next week’s Jackpot will be €12,000 (Sept 13th) Play now www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw. 1. Claire Breslin c/o Moxie Doran. 2.

Fran Kelly c/o Hugh Lawlor 3. Niall Cody c/o Mary Cody. 4. Stephen Sheenan c/o Ann Cullen. 5. Miriam Butler c/o Mick Nolan. 6. Marty Hanlon. 7. P.A O’Conner c/o Kevin Cleere. 8. Sean Butler c/o online 9. Maria O’Shea c/o online. 10. Sarah Burke. Thank you for your continued support www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto U13’S GET OFFTO A POSITAVE START O’Loughlin Gaels 3-15 to 2-7 Ballyhale Shamrocks On a day of beautiful sunshine in St John’s Park our u13 hurlers further added to the positive vibes with a very mature performance against a capable Shamrocks side. The boys stamped their authority on the game from the early stages-hurling on the front foot, stubborn in defence and combining well up front. Adam Quigley went well on the frees to complement the open play performance. Onwards and upwards.

1. Dan O Brien. 2. Lucas Duggan. 3. Kyrill Mtinsi. 4. JJ Cahill. 5. Emmett Cooney

6. Andrew Holohan. 7. Ronan Treacy. 8. Ben Fahey. 9.

Shane Comerford. 10. Felix Fwamba 11. Ryan Farrell. 12. Sam Briers. 13. Adam Quigley. 14.

Conor McCormack. 15. Conor Manogue. Subs: Harry Egan, Andrejs Kirilovs HANDBALL NEWS O’Loughlin Gaels Handballer Noah Manogue won the under 16 Leinster Final yesterday in Kilfane.

Beating Jamie Barnes from Wexford. Noah started the first game brilliantly and never let up winning 21-11. The second game was a lot tighter at the start with the Wexford man making the early running and leading 11- 5. But Noah upped the gears again and went on to win 21-12. Noah has put in a huge effort this year and is training with the adults in the club and it is paying off. It’s not easy to manage hurling and handball at this time of year. He never missed a training session even sometimes coming after hurling training at 9 O’Clock some nights.We wish him the best for the All-Ireland semifinal in 2 weeks time..

(John Morrissey) CHAMPIONSHIP NEWS It’s been a mixed bag for our teams in recent days.

Our seniors and intermediates march on to play their respective championship 1st rounds next weekend - The Seniors on Saturday v Mullinavat and the intermediates are out on Sunday v Dunnamaggin. Please support.

The u13 boys negotiated their first round game v Ballyhale successfully and look forward to a semifinal date yet to be scheduled. Unfortunately our u15 A, Minor A and intermediate camogie all exited the championships this week. A sterling effort was put in by all our teams and managements and we thank them for all their hard work. The u15s still compete in a shield competition so there is plenty of hurling to play for. The u15s B team will take on Dicksboro in the Roinn C qtr final this Sunday at Palmerstown.

Please support all our teams.

ALL-STARS Congratulations to Paddy, Huw and Mikey who have each been nominated for PWC GAA All-Stars - reward for their brilliant performances for Official Kilkenny GAA throughout the year, and what about Mikey nominated for Young Hurler of the Year. No question in our eyes. Lovely hurling

PEDIGREE WINNERS Local lads David Condon and his son Gill were on the winning trail again last weekend at the last show of the year. The pair had a number of winners at the Clonaslee show on Sunday last They claimed 1st and 2nd in the ram lamb class, 1st and 2nd in the ewe lamb class, 2nd in the breeding ewe class and 1st in the shearing ewe class . Their ram lamb Uppertown went on to be tapped overall pedigree sheep and win the Ger Kelly Cup. Well done lads keep up the good work.

FEILE LACHTAIN 2022 The first of the MQC Concerts will take place on Friday night with a performance by renowned acoustic guitarist Will Killeen at 8.00 p.m. in Ionad Lachtain.

Admission is €10 at the door.

Meanwhile local man Mike Cormack’s book of 21st century photographs was launched recently at Ionad

David Condon with winning Ram Lamb Uppertown

lachtain and is now on sale DAYCARE CENTRE Freshford day care centre are organisied a bus to Holycross Abbey on Saturday for the anointing of the sick ceremony. The bus departed the GAA grounds at 12 noon and the group were treated to a lovely meal in Holycross afterwards before returning home The Day care centre recommenced last Wednesday 14th September in the GAA Centre. New members are most welcome EXAM RESULTS Congrats and well done to all the students who received their Leaving Certificate results recently.

Many of the students who attend city schools and Colaiste Mhurie Johnstown got the points they needed for their choice of courses in Third level colleges and are wished the very best in their next stage of education.

GAA St.Lachtains intermediate hurlers were defeated in the last game of the league on Saturday afternoon last when they faced Danesfort at Tom Ryall Park.

Having to field without a number of regulars they never got to grips with a stronger Danesfort side.

This result now leaves them in a relegation semi final which takes place on Saturday next at Canon.Kearns Park Castlecomer with throw in at 3pm. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

Team: J.Burke, H.Burke, C.Bergin, B Quinn, C.Rafter, D.Maher, A.Rafter, S.Rafter, B.Kennedy, P White, P.Killeen, J.Fitzpatrick, N.McGree, C.O’Leary, Subs: P.Campion, C.Power, S.Dawson, and C.Dawson.

Meanwhile the Minor hurlers had a good win earlier on Saturday morning when they defeated Ballyhale on a scorleine of 2-25 to 2-13 All upcoming fixtures will be confirmed and posted on St.Lachtains GAA social media page.

ON HOLIDAY Presently on holiday at their home at Buncrussia Street Freshford are members of the Dunne Family.

Bjorg and her family who live in Norway are regulars visitors to Freshford.

SOCCER The soccer season has now begun and the schoolboys section is also set to resume. Freshford Town Junior side were drawn against River Rangers in the Pat Maher Shield.

The annual Colin McGree Tournament took place recently at Woodview recently with a large number of kids staking part. This tournament is run each year in memory of Colin who died at the age of 17 and who was a talented young soccer player.

WED Congratulations and best wishes are extended to Jimmy Cantwell, Bridge Street Freshford and his bride Emma who were married last week. Ceremony and reception took place at Hotel Kilkenny.

SPLIT THE POT The weekly lucky winner of last weeks split the pot draw was Paddy Maher winning the sum of €104. The draw takes place each Wednesday. Tickets are just €2 and the winner gets half of the takings. The draw is held each Wednesday and boxes and envelopes can be found in Kavanaghs Bar, Mace, O’Shea’s corner shop, Girls& Guys Hairdressers, Oasis Creche, Freshford Creamery, Freshford Butchers and Prague House. Big thanks for all your support.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Community & GAA Notes

David and winning ram with judges

PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am. wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

Notices The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed

by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ ossory.ie.

LOOP CAFE Big Work is continuing on the Community Cafe at Buncrussia Street and it is hoped to be open next month. Huge credit is due to the volunteers who have worked so hard to get all the work done. The Committee thank all those who supported their recent fund raiser and all who have donated over the past months.

THANK YOU The organisers of the recent fundraiser in aid of upgrade to Paintwork in St. Nicholas Church Tulla wish to say a big thank you for your kind donations with a total of 860euro collected.

HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284 342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

DUNNAMAGGIN GAA Well done to the U11s who won their go games match against Carrickshock. They all played great hurling from the start with some fantastic scores. A memorable occasion for their first match in Nowlan Park LOCAL LOTTO Local Lotto Results for September 5th Winning Numbers. 1,3,5 . No Winner.

Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30 Noreen Power ( Jimmy McCormack ),Clodagh Lawrence ( C J Delaney ),Niamh ( Malachy Hogan ),Stella Byrne ( Marie Kelly ),Noreen Power ( Jimmy McCormack ) Jackpot next week September 12th :€ 2,200 Venue : Townsend’s Dunnamaggin at 9pm All Welcome.

DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP The fourth Community Spirit Award will be awarded in November. This year, as last, we have a nomination process in place for people to nominate someone they feel should be acknowledged for their voluntary work and contribution to the parish of Dunnamaggin which encompasses the three villages of Kells, Dunnamaggin and Kilmoganny. Nominations can be sent via private message to our facebook page (Dunnamaggin Community News) saying why your nominee should receive the award. Nomination forms will also be available at the September market and in local shops soon.

A new Whats App Group has been set up Parish News and Events to inform the whole community of forthcoming events across the three villages of Kells, Kilmoganny and Dunnamaggin. If you wish to be added please text 087 9665020 or 087 7565376 to be added to the group. It is an information only group so admins are the only ones that can post but there are admins from the three villages so if you have some event to highlight or news to impart you contact one of the admins and they will post for you.

The Harvest Market will take place on Sunday September 25th - Apple Pressing will be available so bring along your apples to be made into juice, our second Scarecrow Competition will take place - build a scarecrow and display in Madges Garden from 11am with prizes for the best - an Apple Pie competition - leave your creation in the Pop Up Café from 12noon judging at 3pm - lots of fun games for the children. Put the date in your diary and come along to Madge’s Garden from 11.30am to 4pm.

We are looking for more volunteers to join the DDG . We hold two meetings a month to organise our markets. We have our markets the last Sunday of the month and you don’t have to be involved in every one. We work as a team but we all understand that family and work comes first. If you are interested in lending a hand a couple of hours a month please let me know .It’s also a lovely way to make friends and keep up to date with everything going on in the community and also helping to make our community a better place .

NO CONTRACT ! NO COMMITMENT ! JUST FUN !

Contact Cyndi on 0899473002 KILMOGANNY BRIDGE CLUB Results for 7/09/2022: 1 Josie O’Gorman and; Philip Brennan. 2 Gerry FitzGerald and; Emer Wallace. 3 Mary Delaney and Margaret Dunne. Bridge is every Wednesday night at 7.30pm in St. Eoghan’s Centre, Kilmoganny. All welcome.

KELLS SCOUT Kells Scouts: The local Scout Group is about to get back to adventure after the summer break. Starting next week, there are spaces available in all sections for new members and for new leaders.Beavers, aged 6-8, Wednesdays 7pm-8pm Cubs, aged 9-11, Tuesdays 7.15pm-8.30pm Scouts, aged 12-16, Thursdays 7.30-9pm If you’d like to know more or to join, contact francis.denny@gmail.com DROICHEAD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE CALLAN Knit/ Crochet and Natter, every Friday in Droichead Family Resource Centre from 10-11.30am starting on the 16th September. Open to all beginners/ improvers/advanced, a tutor will be on hand to show new skills and all materials are provided. €2 per class to cover the cost of teas and coffees. To book your place contact Carmel on (083) 2098069 or familysupport@droicheadfrc.ie.

Free Conversational English Classes return to Droichead FRC . For more information contact Carmel

on (083) 2098069 or familysupport@droicheadfrc.ie.

SHAPE A PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURE Help Kilkenny County Council shape a plan for your future!! Kilkenny County Council and the Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee (LCDC) want you to tell them about the opportunities, and challenges you face, across the county that affect your lives. To inform the next Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP) for the county the Local Authority is seeking feedback on proposed goals and objectives under 10 key areas; Climate & Sustainability, Supporting Businesses, Culture, Heritage & Tourism, Rural Economy, Education & Skills, Attracting Graduates, Health Inequalities, Community Development, Social Investment and Housing.

As part of the first step to inform the new LECP plan Kilkenny County Council have prepared a draft Socio-Economic Statement and draft high level goals https://www.yourkilkennylecp.ie/ As part of the community consultation, Kilkenny County Council would like to hear your views on the 10 draft high level goals and the sustainable community and economic objectives set out within it, alongside your desired outcomes and vision for Kilkenny.

Take the citizen survey Click on the link https://www. yourkilkennylecp.ie/ to be redirected to the LECP survey page. This survey will take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete and will close on Friday 23rd September 2022.

The Draft Socio Economic Statement and Draft High Level Goals are available for public viewing at 7 locations throughout the County.Attend a virtual workshop during the month of October Kilkenny County Council will be holding three virtual workshops, one for municipal districts in the county, as follows.

Castlecomer (virtual event) – Friday 7th October, 19:00-21:00 Callan-Thomastown (virtual event) – Monday 10th October, 19:00-21:00 Piltown (virtual event) – Wednesday 12th October, 19:00-21:00 Attend an in-person event Or register to attend their public workshop in Kilkenny City Kilkenny City – Springhill Court Hotel, Waterford Road, Kilkenny, R95 NX32 - Wednesday 5th October, 19:00-21:00You must pre-register for attendance. To register for the event for your area click the link: https://www.yourkilkennylecp.ie/For more information click on https:// consult.kilkenny.ie/en/consultation/local-economicand-community-plan-O

GOWRAN PARK On Saturday, September 17th, Denny Cordell Day takes place at Gowran Park. Ireland’s Top Cover Band Transmitter will perform live after racing. Get your early bird tickets now at www.gowranpark.ie GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE After a two-year break due to Covid-19, tickets for Brian Friel’s ‘The Communication Cord’ is hilariously fast paced and it’s coming to Gowran Parish Hall from October 21th to 24th 2022 at 8pm nightly. Tickets are €12 and available now on www.gowranlittletheatre. com Book now to avoid disappointment!

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Juvenile evenings have ended now for this year. Congratulations to all and to the club coaches.

SPORT ROUND UP MICHAEL O’LEARY INTERMEDIATES FINISH STRONGLY TO FIGHTBACK AND WIN Young Irelands Intermediates finished strongly to overturn a 5-point deficit and defeat Dunnamaggin 3-12 to 0-17 in the Final Round of Group games in the Intermediate League.

Dunnamaggin made a flying start and by the 20th minute, they had built up a 0-7 to 0-1 lead, but the Gowran Men fought back and goals from Jack Brennan and a Tommy Phelan Penalty saw them trail by only a solitary point at half-time. 0-11 to 2-4.

Dunnamaggin were on top throughout the third quarter, and they built up a 0-16 to 2-5 and looked to be on the way to victory, but with Mikey Carey leading the way Young Irelands fought back mainly through the sharpshooting accuracy of Tommy Phelan and they had drawn level entering injury-time. 2-11 to 0-17.

The match was up for grabs entering injury-time and The Gowran Men had dominated possession throughout that Final Quarter that included two chances that went wide of goal. However, they made amends when Ted Drea finished superbly following a brilliant run by Sean Carey.

Young Irelands now play Mooncoin in the First Round of the Championship this coming Saturday in Inistioge at 3pm.

SENIORS GIRLS PLAY THOMASTOWN The Young Irelands Senior Camogie Team host Thomastown in the Quarter-Final of the Championship next Sunday Morning at 11am.

The Gowran Team go into Sunday’s clash in good form having won all three of their Group Matches against St. Martins, Conahy Shamrocks and Barrow Rangers.However, they know that a formidable task awaits them against their neighbours on Sunday Morning who have mostly dominated the Senior Championship in recent years.

Unfortunately, there was disappointment for the U-14s who lost 4-6 to 1-5 away to a highly skilled Rower-Inistioge outfit in Inistioge last Sunday Evening in the County Championship Semi-Final. Most of the Group are eligible for U-14 again next year and overall, they can look back on a very good year where they reached a League Semi-Final and a Championship Semi-Final playing at a higher level.

UNDERAGE HURLING MINORS TEAMS REACH SHIELD FINALS Both Young Irelands Minor Hurling Teams qualified for Shield Finals following respective Semi-Final victories last weekend.

The A Team defeated Tullogher-Rosbercon 1-16 to 1-11, and they will play Piltown in the decider.

Meanwhile, the Young Irelands Minor B Team cruised to a 10-6 to 0-1 win against O’Loughlin Gaels, and they will play Carrickshock in the Shield Minor Roinn C decider.

CHAMPIONSHIP QUARTER FINAL LOSSES FOR U-15 TEAMS Both Young Irelands U-15 Teams suffered heavy defeats in their Quarter-Final matches last week.

The Young Irelands U-15 A Team lost 3-22 to 2-6 against a highly skilled James Stephens outfit who reached the latter stages of the National Feile competition.The game was highly competitive for the first 20-25 minutes, but a goal from The Village Boys put them in control and they began to dominate despite Young Irelands best attempts.

The B Team also lost 5-15 to 1-8 against John Lockes of Callan, but both Young Irelands U-15 Teams have a chance to finish the season with Silverware in The Shield competitions.

The A Team will travel to Hugginstown to play Carrickshock in the Quarter-Final on Saturday Morning at 11am, while the B Team will play Piltown on Sunday Morning also at 11am in the 13-a-side Shield Final.

U-13S LOSE QUARTER-FINAL TO JOHN LOCKES The U-13s lost to a very strong John Lockes of Callan outfit 2-5 to 0-5 in the Quarter-Final of the Roinn A Championship on a most horrible morning for Hurling.

Meanwhile, the U-13 B Team will be looking to book a place in the 13-a-side Final as they play Ballyhale Shamrocks in Ballyhale next Sunday Morning at 10.30am.

Hopes are high they can book a place in the County Final following a highly impressive and emphatic victory against James Stephens in the Quarter-Final.

JUVENILE HURLING Under-11S The Young Irelands U-11s graced Nowlan Park last Friday Evening having been invited by the Kilkenny County Board and it was a wonderful evening to remember.They had a tour of the dressing rooms and then a game versus Dicksboro and was probably the first time for most of them to play in Nowlan Park in an experience they will never forget.

Under-7S The Young Irelands U-7s welcomed Graigue-Ballycallan to Gowran last Friday Evening in which the two Clubs played great games with great skill on show.

They will return the compliment to play in Tom Ryall Park, Kilmanagh in the next few weeks.

PRIMARY SCHOOLS FOOTBALL The Gowran Primary Schools Football Team lost 4-7 to 1-1 in their opening game of the Cumann Na Mbunscoil competition last Wednesday.

JIM STRIKES LUCKY IN PILTOWN DRAW Congrats to Jim Comerford who was a Lucky Winner in the First Hurlers Co-Op Draw after winning €100.

Next draw is Tuesday September 20th.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club Lotto Results 8th September.

Nos: 1 8 13 32Jackpot: €4250 Not Won Draw Prizes – €50: Mandy Knox c/o T & J Knox. €25 each Kay O’Neill c/o Ned Buggy

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Community & GAA Notes

Picture of U13 Shield Final Winners

€25 each Ashleigh & Lucy c/o Liam Barry. €25 each Jimmy Fitzpatrick c/o T Hackett Co op draw ticket Mary Deegan c/o P & J Cody.

Promotors prize Paddy Maher New weeks draw €4400. Thank you for your continued support U13 SHIELD FINAL Sean Kavanagh captained the Boro u13’s to victory Sunday in Thomastown in the Roinn A Shield Final against the Rower Inistioge. A tough match in wet conditions well done all involved.

U15’s Our u15 A team played O’Loughlin Gaels in Palmerstown Wednesday evening. Goals proved the difference with the Boro they now go forward to the Semi Final fixed for Saturday in Palmerstown at 11am against Erin’s Own. Best of luck lads.

MINORS Well done to our Minor A & C teams who had good wins over the weekend and both through to Kilkenny Honda Centre Minor Semi Finals the weekend of the 24th & 25th of September. Best of luck going forward to both panels.

PALMERS TOWN CLUBHOUSE Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is opened every Thursday from 8.30pm. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners card table.

We would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee also available so come along and enjoy.

MASS TIMES Hugginstown Church: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m.

Vigil Saturday 17th.at 8.00p.m. Sunday 18th at 10.00a.m.

Stoneyford Church: Wednesdays . at 7.00p.m. VigilSaturday 17th at 6.30p.m.

Friday 16th. Feast of Sts. Cornelius and Cyprian.

Pray For: John Carroll, Kingsmountain; died on Monday 5th. Queen Elizabeth 11, died on Thursday 8th.

William Carr, Barnadown: Michael, Johanna and William Dunne, Stoneyford.

Anniversary Masses next weekend: Michael Fennelly, Ballycaum: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 17th. September at 6.30p.m.

Jimmy Walsh, Lismatigue: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 17th. September at 8.00p.m.

Toddy Tennyson, Mabbistown: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 18th. September at 10.00a.m.

Rota for this week-end: 17th. and 18th. September 2022 (Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time).

Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Neill O’Grady.

Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron.

Sunday 10.00a.m. Deirdre O’Shea.

Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m.

Kitty Wallace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cuddihy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power.

LOTTO AGHAVILLER PARISH AND CARRICK SHOCK GAA Draw: Monday 5th. September 2022. Numbers: 15; 24; 22; 11. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn: No Jackpot Winner: 5 x €30.00 Winners: Fred Malzard, Stoneyford; Robbie Power, Lismatigue. Leah Ivors, c/o Padraig Crowley; Breda Sheehan, Stonecarthy; Catherine Barron, Catstown.

3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Willie Walshe; Breda O’Meara; Pauline Doyle.

Please submit returns by 8.30p.m. Draw at 9.00p.m.

ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL RESTORATION FUND DRAW The first draw for St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund 2022/2023 year is due to take place on Wednesday 28th.September 2022. The draw year 2022/20223 will run from September 2022 to August 2023. Draw will be held at 8.00p.m on the last Wednesday of each month. Tickets are available at the Parish House, Hugginstown: Telephone contact 056 776 8693. All Tickets to be entered by Monday 26th. September if you wish to be part of the First Draw on Wednesday 28th. Subscription €10.00 per month: Prize Money €5,000.00 per month.

Roman Catholic Diocese and Parishes of Ossory Registered Charity No. 20015831 STONEYFORD ACTIV RETIREMENT GROUP SARG is a very active, vibrant group of retirees who participate in a range of activities. They include a number of regular activities in the Community Centre at 2.30p.m. 22nd. September ( and every second Thursday throughout the year). We play cards (25’s) (€5). Short Mat Bowling resumed on 14th. September at 10.30a.m. (€3). Also on the 14th. The Fit Club with Seamus Nugent resumed at 7.00p.m. (€7). At 11.30a.m. on 15th. and 29th. September (and every second Thursday throughout the year), we play 10 Pin Bowling in K Bowl in McDonagh Junction, Kilkenny (€7, which includes refreshments). Throughout the year, depending on interest, other activities/ classes are arranged. If you are interested in participating in any of our activities, just turn up at the appropriate time.

POOR CLARE The Poor Clares, Galway, are hosting a Monastic Experience Day on Saturday 24th. September from 10.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. The day is designed to help young women who are exploring the possibility of a religious vocation to find out more about the Poor Clare way of life. If you are under 40 and would like to attend the day you can book a place at vocations@ poorclares.ie.

STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT Subscriptions for 2022/2023 year are now due. At only €10.00 this is a valuable and proven service. You can still pay your subscription by placing €10.00 and your name and mobile number in an envelope and dropping it into Willie’s Shop or Malzard’s Bar. You can also pay directly to our bank account. AIB, Kilkenny.

BIC: AIBKIE2D. IBAN: IE26 AIBK 9331 9854 7180 95 referencing both your Name & Mobile Number. Go to Stoneyford Text Alert on Facebook for further information!

FIT CLUB Fitness sessions for adults resume in Stoneyford Community Centre at 7.00p.m. from Wednesday 14th.

September. €7.00 per night; all are welcome.

KILKENNY BERAVEMENT SUPPORT Kilkenny Bereavement Support is running a Training Course for Volunteers commencing on Friday 16th.

September and running for 30 hours over a 5 week period. They have 3 places available on this course.

The course will take place in Villa Maria, Talbot’s Inch, Kilkenny. If interested, please phone 056 775 6538 or visit their website www.kilkennybereavementsupport.com for an application form. Closing date: Sept 5th.

STUDY THEOLOGY ONLINE The Priory Institute provides Online Theology Courses to degree level. Attend Saturday lectures in Tallaght or from the comfort of your own home.

Register before September 13th. Find out more on our website, prioryinstitute.com. Click to see a 2 minute introductory film.

FRIENDS OF CALCUTTA Sincere thanks to all who supported our Clothing Collection for the Friends of Calcutta which was held last week. It is most valued and very much appreciated.

Thank You One and All. ST JOSEPH’S HOME St. Josephs Home, Kilmoganny is looking for a part cook to work 2 days per week and to cover holidays when required. Knowledge on cooking desirable but training will be given on how to prepare meals. Please contact Nurse Manager, Lisa Prendergast on 051648091 or send your CV to sjhome15@gmail.com.

SAVE THE DATE Knitting and Crochet Christmas Fair and Coffee Morning on Friday 2nd December in the Centre, Main Street, Urlingford from 11am – 1pm. Hope to see you there.

COURSES BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5 - Begins September 2022 We are currently taking names for the Healthcare QQI Level 5 programme starting September 2022. Please contact us if you are interested in completing this course.

LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4 LTI is recruiting for the new programme in the Centre.

If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact us for an expression of interest form. More details can be found on our website www. millfrcurlingford.com DEFIBRILLATOR Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

SENIOR ALERTS If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

COUNSELLING SERVICS Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-toOne, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus.

General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression.

Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addictions.

Please contact Sue for more information or to make

Save the date Crochet Fair

an appointment.

APPEAL Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

Contact number for the Centre 056-8838466

President Coleman Loughnane’s Prize to the Ladies.

The sun shone and the rain gear and brollies were put away on Saturday last when lady members enjoyed a great day of golf on superb course conditions. This was capped off by the prize giving hosted by Club President Coleman Loughnane.

In her first ever major competition Justine Stanton carded a super score of 40pts winning on a countback from Rita O’Neill.

Results: Winner Justine Stanton c/b. 2nd Rita O’Neill 40pts.

Best Gross: Kathleen Phelan 21pts 3rd Niamh Cunningham 39pts. 4th Claire Hendriques 38pts. 5th Bernie Lyons 37pts 6th Marie O’Riordan 37pts c/b. 7th Catherine Davis 37pts Front 9 Mary D Grace 22pts. Back 9 Berna Walsh 20pts. Nearest the pin: Anne Croke 9 Hole Winner Ann Hickey 18ptsc/b. 2nd Jean Grace 18pts c/b The beginners scramble winners were K Cahill/A Nolan/M Brennan Tuesday Sept 6th Open 2 person team event Winners Mary O’Hanlon/Anna Starr with a great score of 49pts 9 Hole winner Geraldine O’Sullivan Next Tuesday will see the Bradley Trophy 18 hole stroke

Seated L to R: Club Captain John Ryan, Club President Coleman Loughnane, Ladies Captain Anne Croke, and Ladies President Ann O’Shea with some of the prizewinners

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters

Sport

Richie Hogan

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

We are now getting to the business end of the Kilkenny club season, as the league titles are up for grabs this weekend. Along with the final 4 facingoff in the senior and intermediate league finals, relegation matters will become clearer and round 1 of the championship will play out across the county.

St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Final Bennettsbridge v Tullaroan The meeting of The Bridge & the Sash in the senior league final could prove to be an enjoyable spectacle. All those in attendance will hope for a high-scoring affair, especially given the quality of forwards that will be on show in the decider.

The Bridge will look to the accuracy of placed-ball specialist Nicky Cleere to keep the score board ticking over, while the rampaging Sean Morrissey has the potential to cause unrest in the Tullaroan defence. Backboned by the Blanchfield’s, Kevin, Liam and David can bring class and danger in equal measure, as they seek to make it back-to-back senior league titles.

Last season saw Bennettsbridge claim their very first senior league title, when they overcame a strong challenge from Clara. Willie Murphy was key to that victory, hitting 0-5 from play and he will look to step-up again this weekend when they face The Sash.

Tullaroan will look to build on their final group game win over Shamrocks Ballyhale and will fancy their chances of inflicting the first league defeat on The Bridge in the final. Shane Walsh has been in tremendous form this season and will look to cement this when he confronts Bennettsbridge.

County men Padraig Walsh and Martin Keoghan can have pivotal roles in the final at different ends of the pitch. We are likely to see the classy Padraig at centreback, while Mossy will undoubtedly provide a constant goal threat to the Bridge rearguard. The ever-improving Dylan Simpson will also need to be watched as he too knows how to raise a green flag.

Nicky Cleere vs Shane Walsh from the placed ball could be a right ding-dong battle and go part of the way to deciding the victors of this mouth-watering contest.

Senior shield final Clara v Dicksboro An interesting fixture this one. The Palmerstown outfit will be keen to progress, and the goal threat that they hold, could prove vital. Andy Gaffney, Bill Sheehan, Liam Moore and fit again Harry Shine could provide the ‘Boro with the necessary weapons to edge this one.

First round championship Ballyhale Shamrocks v Glenmore Seeking a 5th consecutive county title, Pat Hoban’s men will take on last season’s intermediate champions Glenmore. I think it’s fair to say that Ballyhale will not take the Murphy brothers side lightly. Eoind Cody, Adrian Mullen and TJ will look to dominate. Expect Shamrocks Ballyhale to make a statement in this tie.

Mullinavat v O’Loughlin Gaels The Vegas Boys will need to bring their recent form into this game and a bit more to it, if they are to cause an upset when they face Andy Comerford’s charges. Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor and Paddy Deegan will be keen to try and go one better than last season, and should have enough about them to progress.

Relegation semi-finals & Championship Round 1 James Stephens v Lisdowney The Village will seek to kick-start their season when they face Lisdowney. Luke Scanlon, Niall Brasill and trusty free-take Eoin Guilfoyle will look to propel James

Richie Leahy finds his way blocked by Luke Hickey and Luke Scanlon

Bridge & Sash do battle as Danesfort and the Town reach for the stars

League finals take centre stage as championship kicks in!

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Hurling matters Sean Morrissey Takes Possesion under strong challenge from Shane Donoghue

Stephens to the next round. Cian Kenny will also be keen to drive-on following his breakthrough season for the county.

Erin’s Own v Graigue Ballycallan The ‘Comer men will look to get out of trouble when they take-on pointless Graigue-Ballycallan in an encounter that looks a 50/50 game. Erin’s Own will hope that Jack Buggy’s radar is on-point and that the likes of Stephen Daly can provide assistance in attack to get them over the line against Billy Ryan & Co. Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling League Final Thomastown vs Danesfort The battle to reach the senior ranks see’s unbeaten Danesfort face-off against Thomastown. Much was expected of Henry Shefflin’s charges last season, but they came up short in their semi-final against eventual winners Glenmore.

It won’t be any easier against the team with the best record at this level following the completion of the group stages.

Danesfort have beaten all those in front of them this season, not only have they won all 5 games in Group B, but they are also the group’s top scorers as well as having the tightest defence. 2014 All-Stars, Richie Hogan and Paul Murphy provide the experience and leadership for the black and amber side, and as we all know, Hogan can point from just about anywhere on the pitch! Hogan has decent support in attack, especially with Robbie Walsh and Colm Phelan looking lively during the group stages.

Thomastown come into the final having suffered just one loss in the group, that a narrow defeat to Mikey Carey’s Young Irelands. The Town hold plenty of attacking threats themselves, with the trio of Donnelly’s, John, Stephen & Robbie all capable of keeping the umpire’s flag-waving busy. Throw-in Luke Connellan, Zach Bay Hammond and Jack Holden and you can see how they have the arsenal to trouble the Danesfort defensive unit.

With former county minor star, Peter McDonald anchoring the defence at centreback, the Thomastown back-line will need to keep a tight rein on the Danesfort front six. It’s also worth point out that Thomastown have scored more and conceded less than their fellow intermediate finalists. The battle for a place at the top table could be a cracker!

Intermediate shield final Rower Inistioge vs Carrickshock Gaels will expect an entertaining affair when The Rower meet Shocks for the shield.

Richie Leahy and Pat Lyng will trouble the Carrickshock defence, while Shocks will look to Jake O’Dwyer and Eoghan O’Neill to do the damage and secure silverware and a safe passage to the next round of the championship

Mossy Walsh takes control

John Donnelly looks for support

First round championship Young Irelands vs Mooncoin This encounter definitely has the feel of a 50/50 about it. Mooncoin will look to their attacking threat to steer them home, with Pa Walsh, Killian Hogan and Adam Croke providing a stern test to the Young Irelands defence, while Martin O’Neill and Ciaran Quilty will add a little bit of quality to the ‘Coin’s challenge.

O’Loughlin Gaels vs Dunnamaggin O’Loughlin’s second string will look to progress when they take on Dunnamaggin.

The Gaels finished 3rd in their group and their form would suggest that they perhaps hold the greater scoring threat than that of their opponents.

Relegation semi-finals & Championship Round 1 St Martin’s vs St Lachtain’s St Lachtains should possess a little too much for winless St Martins, and should progress without too much bother.

Conahy Shamrocks vs Fenians Like St Martins, Fenians endured a very tough group stage in the league. It doesn’t auger well as Fenians look to upset the odds and progress at Conahy Shamrocks expense.

Expect the relegation final to be St Martins vs Fenians.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Thomastown and Danesfort will go head-to-head for the Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling League title this year, following the conclusions of the group stages last weekend.

Danesfort are the only side at Intermediate level that remain unbeaten after five rounds of games and will fancy their chances when they face Thomastown in the league final.

St Lachtains provided a sterner test than anticipated when the sides met at Tom Ryall Park, and played their part in an entertaining game which saw Danesfort emerge 9-point winners.

Group A winners, Thomastown had 8-points to spare in their victory over Conahy Shamrocks in Clara.

Carrickshock qualified for the shield final following their dismantling of St Martins at Palmerstown. The Shocks will now play The Rower Inistioge in the shield decider after a Richie Leahy inspired performance saw them quell the threat of Mooncoin.

There were also final round wins for Young Irelands and O’Loughlin Gaels over Dunnamaggin and Fenians respectively.

Zach Bay Hammond Gets in his shot to score a point

Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling League Danesfort aim for perfect 6 in league final as Thomastown lie in wait

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Hurling matters Andy Hickey Shows perfect Balance chased by Tommy Phelan

Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling League

GROUP A – ROUND 5

Thomastown 1-22 to 0-17 Conahy Shamrocks Carrickshock 4-22 to 1-12 St Martin’s Young Irelands 3-12 to 0-17 Dunnamaggin

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Group A #

Team

P

W

L

D

F

A

Pts

1

Thomastown

5

4

1

0

143

91

8

2

Carrickshock

5

4

1

0

134

107

8

3

Young Irelands

5

3

2

0

106

100

6

4

Dunnamaggin

5

2

3

0

97

109

4

5

Conahy Shamrocks 5

2

3

0

103

103

4

6

St Martin’s

0

5

0

78

151

0

5

Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling League

GROUP B – ROUND 5

Danesfort 0-30 to 3-12 St Lachtain’s Rower Inistioge 0-24 to 1-11 Mooncoin Fenians 0-20 to 4-19 O’Loughlin Gaels

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Group A

Eoghan Kearney catches under pressure from Patrick brennan

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Team

P

W

L

D

F

A

Pts

1

Danesfort

5

5

0

0

136

101

10

2

Rower Inistioge

5

3

1

1

120

108

7

3

O`Loughlin Gaels 5

3

2

0

128

120

6

4

Mooncoin

5

2

3

0

110

109

4

5

St Lachtain’s

5

1

3

1

103

124

3

6

Fenians

5

0

5

0

86

121

0

WHAT’S UP NEXT Intermediate league final Thomastown vs Danesfort Intermediate shield final Rower Inistioge vs Carrickshock First round championship Young Irelands vs Mooncoin O’Loughlin Gaels vs Dunnamaggin Relegation semi-finals & Championship Round 1 St Martin’s vs St Lachtain’s Conahy Shamrocks vs Fenians

44

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

Motors Classifieds

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

NOW OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.30am to 12.00pm

CAR WASH – 087 2587745 TYRE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

JOEPARSONSGARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES INCLUDE • Hedge cutting • • Grass cutting • • Power washing • • Dry rubbish removal • • Tree pruning •

CONTACT JOE: 086-8587568

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

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Classifieds Motors

Call 056 7771463 for all your classified advertisements

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

News

Planning Memoriams/Miracle notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought for the demolition and removal of dairy farm structures and associated dairy elements to provide for a replacement equine farmyard facility. The removals include the existing milking parlour and associated stores, the slatted wintering shed and associated underground tanks, and a concrete apron. The new replacement structures include the following: - 4no. separate stabling blocks- each with 6no. loose boxes and stores, a covered walker and lunge, a covered dungstead with associated effluent holding tank and hay barn. Also, the upgrading of the existing farmyard entrance with sightline adjustment to the roadside boundary, fencing, access laneway, landscaping, provision of a replacement foul water treatment system to the associated farmhouse, boundary treatment and associated services all at Ballydonnell, Thomastown.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.

Applicant: Ballylinch Stud

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Breda Walker intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing garage and stores and all associated site development works at 65 Newpark Lower, Kilkenny.

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

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022

47

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

NELL O’CONNELL 17TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of a Dear and Gentle Mother Nell, late of 2, Ossory Park, Kilkenny who died on 15th September 2005 R.I.P Mam. To know you as a Mother Was cause enough for pride Not one could ever equal you No matter how they tried Silent memories keep us near As time unfolds another year From our lives you may have gone But in our hearts you will always live on.

Love and miss you every day Mam Sadly missed by all the family.

PETER GAULE 21ST ANNIVERSARY

PETER GAULE 21ST ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Peter Gaule, late of 3 Kenealy Avenue whose anniversary occurs at this time.

In loving memory of Peter Gaule, late of 3 Kenealy Avenue whose anniversary occurs at this time.

As each day dawns We think of you As each night falls We pray for you And throughout our lives No matter where In our hearts, You are always there.

A butterfly came floating by

From your friends Des and Carmel

and I thought I knew its face It landed just in front of me and spread its wing of lace As it winked and flew away I’m sure I heard it whisper I’m with you ever day Loved and remembered always

by Gerry and Marian

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. P.L.

A prayer to the Blessed Virgin

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. P.L.

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms.

The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours.

Amen M.B.

(never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request.

(Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen.

This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. U.K.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 16 September 2022