Kilkenny Observer 17th December 2021 by Kilkenny Observer

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Friday 17 December 2021

The Big Slump The science behind seasonal ‘food coma’  See page 14

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Christmas Movies The best festive films for you to stream  See page 47

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer Exclusive: virus variant fails to stop Santa Claus from coming this year BY THE EDITOR -------------------The world is looking brighter now with the booster vaccines rolling out. Despite Santa making it down the chimney of every child’s home last Christmas, despite terrible odds, there were growing fears that the ongoing pandemic and, in particular, the new variant would halt Santa Claus in his tracks. That he and his loyal reindeer would not be able to travel the world on Christmas Eve to visit every child in case he or Rudolph picked up the virus variant. Sources told The Kilkenny Observer that Mrs Claus was said to be “beside herself with worry” about the Old Man who, let’s face it, is not getting any younger. However, a source close to Santa — and, no, it is not one of his elves — has told The Kilkenny Observer that Santa had his booster shot yesterday, along with Rudoplh and Dasher and Dancer and the rest of the crew, and that they will all be able to safely travel to each and every child who believes in him. Santa was quoted as saying: “I have not survived the ages to be conquered by some old meany bug variant.” The source also quoted Mrs Claus as saying her husband — whom she first met when, as a single man, he came down the chimney of her home in Norway to bring presents to her younger brother — said there was no such thing as a ‘naughty child’ this Christmas as every boy and girl had been very good following the Covid-19 health rules about masks and social distancing so Santa this year would grant every child their special wish. Santa and his elves are now EVERY FRIDAY

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down to opening the last 171,220 letters sent to the North Pole by children worldwide. Although some events and traditions have been cancelled, again, this Christmas due to the pandemic, my contact at the North American Aerospace Defense Command (Norad) tells me that, following the news of Santa’s vaccine booster, the military command has swung into full operation to track Santa Claus as he makes his rounds on Christmas night — as it has every year since 1955. Norad tracks Santa as he travels the world through the use of satellite systems, highpowered radar, and (wow!) jet fighters. Like last year, however, this year there will be some changes in the way Norad reports on Santa’s journey. My contact, Preston Schlachter, speaking exclusively to this paper, tells me that, in a typical year, around 150 volunteers take two-hour shifts in a crowded conference room at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs to track Santa’s journey. This year, again, Norad is working to reduce the health risks posed by the virus by operating from a much larger room to ensure proper social distancing. Also, to minimise risk, the number of volunteers has been drastically cut to what Norad expects will be fewer than 10 people a shift. “This is a time-honoured tradition,” says Schlachter. “But we’re trying to keep it safe for everyone involved.” As part of its unique service Norad offers all children — and grown-ups who are children at heart — a Santa tracking website in seven languages ( https://www. noradsanta.org), social media pages, a new mobile app, and

partner platforms so children of all ages around the world can track Father Christmas. Operation Norad Tracks Santa will provide daily updates to its 2.8 million social media followers across its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. The military command has been fielding calls asking about Santa’s whereabouts since Christmas Eve, 63 years ago. A young girl dialled a misprinted telephone number in a department store’s newspaper ad to track Santa and mistakenly reached Air Force Colonel Harry Shoup — the commander on duty at Norad’s predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command. Thinking quickly, Colonel Shoup had his operators find the location of Santa Claus and gave it to the girl. The team then tracked Santa for every child who called that night. The tradition has been carried on by Norad since 1958. Each year, the website attracts nearly nine million visitors from more than 200 countries around the world. It is believed the little girl who misdialled that night met Santa, and Col. Shoup, on Christmas Eve the following year in a secret mince pie factory on 34th Street in New York City. The little girl described her meeting with Santa as “a miracle”. So boys and girls, and mammies and daddies, you can track Santa’s journey on Christmas Eve, but, remember, you must go to bed early so as Santa can come to you. To paraphrase Mrs Claus, I am beside myself with the sheer excitement of Santa coming. Virus? Bah, humbug! See also Page 4, 14 and 18

Generation Z live at home The majority of 20-year-olds in Ireland still live with their parents and prefer it that way, according to the latest data from the ‘Growing up in Ireland’ report. The study revealed that 68% of Generation Z cohort were still living with their parents at the time of the survey. Full report, Page 6

Schools Covid help needed Schools say they need more official support to decide on what Hepa filters they should buy to tackle Covid by cleaning the air. The country’s 4,000 schools will receive direct funding for their purchases. Full report, Page 10

Covid ‘pill’ A ‘game-changing’ antiviral pill that prevents people becoming seriously ill from Covid could be supplied to Ireland by the end of next month, the Government has been told. See Page 6

4.5% pay rise Pay rises up to 4.5% should be sought for private sector workers next year, according to guidance issued by trade union leaders.Paul Hopkins, Page 8

INSIDE Paul Hopkins..............P8 Marianne Heron....P12 John Ellis .................P16 Health & Science ...P18 Travel & Leisure ....P19 Food & Drink ..........P52 TV & Streaming ....P53 Sport .....................P58-63

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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How to cut back on your spending this festive season WITH the festive season now in full swing, many people will find themselves spending more than usual on things such as gifts and socialising; and possibly ending up in debt come January. However, according to Paul Merriman, CEO of askpaul & Pax Financial, this can be avoided by making a few small changes to your spending habits this holiday time. Make a list and shop online Paul says: “Still got some last-minute shopping to do? Making a list and shopping online will help you in sticking to your budget as you will avoid impulse buying - something people tend to do when they are in a physical store.” Keep track of your spending Paul says: “Try your best to keep track of what you are spending. This is the best way to avoid going over budget. Using the likes of N26 or Revolut and setting up different vaults for things such as gifts, nights out, food shopping etc. is a good way to do this.”

Agree price limits with friends and family Paul says: “Speak to your friends and family members about placing a budget cap on gifts. This will make it easier for you to avoid overspending, and it will also ensure there are no awkward moments when gifts are exchanged on Christmas day!” Avoid ‘Buy Now Pay Later’ services Paul says: “While these types of offerings can be tempting, I would encourage anyone thinking about it to think twice. Especially at this time of year. In essence, what these services offer are ‘consumer loans’ and the last thing you want in the New Year is to have a loan hanging over you.” Arrange a Secret Santa with your family Paul says: “Another way to avoid overspending on family gifts, and wasting cash on silly presents that people probably don’t need, is to organise a secret santa. That way, you are only buying one gift and can put more thought into it to ensure it’s really what the recipient really wants.”

Avoid using the credit card Paul says: “This really is one of the easiest ways to ensure that you don’t start 2022 in debt. Avoid using the credit card during the festive season. Even better? Use cash where possible to keep a close eye on your spending.” Avoid buying vouchers as gifts Paul says: “Unfortunately, some businesses might not survive the COVID-19 storm and could well end up closing during 2022. When you purchase a voucher, you are last on the list to be reimbursed if the business goes into liquidation.” Shop local, shop Irish Paul says: “Avoid crazy delivery costs and shop local this Christmas. You won’t just save on shipping fees, you will also be supporting local Irish businesses during a very difficult period.” * askpaul is a place for everyone to get advice on all money matters that’s jargon-free, easy to follow and easy to implement. For more information, please visit www.askpaul.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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News

Covid pill will be here soon A ‘GAME-changing’ antiviral pill that prevents people becoming seriously ill from Covid could be supplied to Ireland by the end of next month, the Government has been told. A new study shows the pill is 89% effective against the Omicron variant. Pfizer, which announced the

results of the final analysis of its drug Paxlovid, has privately told senior Coalition figures it would probably be in a position to supply it to Ireland as early as the end of January, subject to regulatory approval. Senior Government figures believe the development of antiviral pills will be key to avoid-

ing lockdowns or harsh restrictions in 2022. Pfizer said its final analysis of Paxlovid showed that, if given within three days of the onset of Covid-19 symptoms, it reduced the risk of hospitalisation and death by 89%. The risk is reduced by 88% if given within five days.

Meanwhile, the National Public Health Emergency Team (Nphet) warned Government leaders that Ireland could be set to experience levels of the Omicron virus similar to rates currently being recorded in England. In related news, the Health Service Executive (HSE) has

said it has asked vaccine centres to facilitate people to get their Covid-19 vaccine booster dose at three months, after their second Covid vaccine. The HSE said it had issued this advice pending the updating of its IT systems to reflect the new guidance from the National Immunisation Advisory

Committee (NIAC). It said it has asked centres to accommodate people, if at all possible, once they otherwise qualify for a booster. Details of a new accelerated plan for the roll-out of booster vaccines are still being worked on by the HSE and the Department of Health.

As virus lockdown eases, dogs get the boot IRELAND’S largest dog welfare charity said it has experienced an 82% increase in the number of people wanting to give up their dog this year. Dogs Trust Ireland has received more than 2,150 requests from members of the public trying to rehome their pet. The most common reason given was behavioural issues. The charity said it was particularly concerned about where dogs were being sourced, with the prevalence of puppy farming in Ireland since the beginning of the pandemic. It said the demand for dogs since the onset of Covid restrictions saw prices soar into the thousands for puppies being sold online. Ciara Byrne from Dogs Trust Ireland said: “We are pleading with the public not to purchase puppies in the run up to Christmas. “Sadly, this is the most lucrative time of year for puppy farmers, and we know genuine dog lovers don’t want to fuel this vile trade.” Ms Byrne said it is not just the puppy that is affected but its parents, who are left behind “in often appalling conditions”, that suffer the most. She said that is why the End Puppy Farming campaign was launched in November. “We want to show that the public wants to see an end to the horrors these poor dogs endure daily, all in the name of profit,” she said. Speaking on RTÉ’s News at One, Ms Byrne said many dogs have been surrendered due to behavioural issues, while some owners were not aware of the the amount of time and responsibility dogs require. Executive Director at Dogs Trust Ireland Becky Bristow said: “Due to the nature of the puppy farming industry it is extremely difficult to buy a puppy responsibly at present. “Advertisements of cute puppies online in home environments are often a smokescreen and the same photos are often used repeatedly. If you are considering getting a dog, please visit our website first.”

Star-struck Sadie Sadie Morris (6), Dublin Road, Kilkenny at the Amber Stars for Yulefest star installation in the Castle Yard. Amber’s One Million Stars Ireland project celebrated its second birthday recently, announcing that star weavers from Kilkenny and across the country have helped the project reach the significant milestone of 100,000 stars.The project, which connects communities across Ireland in solidarity against domestic abuse and all forms of violence, was formed in Kilkenny in 2019. Photo credit : Freddie Greenall

Most 20-year-olds still live at home with mam and dad, survey shows THE majority of 20-year-olds in Ireland still live with their parents and prefer it that way, according to the latest data from the ‘Growing up in Ireland’ report. Researchers from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) tracked more than 5,000 young people from the age of nine who turned 20 in 2018 and 2019 for an in-depth analysis of how they perceive their lives and wellbeing in such areas as work, health, home life, relationships, education and leisure time. The study revealed that 68% of the so-called Generation Z cohort were still living with their parents at the time of the survey and close to 82%

considered their parental home their “main address” if they didn’t live with them full-time. Even among the minority (32%) who lived outside the family home, 87% said they spent several nights a month at their parents’ home. Fewer than half (44%) of 20-year-olds questioned said they preferred to live independently while the majority (56pc) said they preferred to live in the family home. Almost a third (31%) of 20-year-olds who are living with their parents said finances had nothing to do with remaining in the family home. More than a third of those (38%) who were in education or training were more likely to

live outside the family home compared with 20% who were employed and 21% who were not employed, in education or training. Meanwhile, the report found most 20-year-olds (69%) were primarily in education or training while more than a quarter (26%) were employed either full or part-time. Just 5% were not in some sort of education, training or employment. When it comes to their futures, close to half of 20-year-olds hope to be in a managerial or technical position by their 30th birthday with almost a quarter (22%) hoping to be in a professional occupation, with a quarter of males and 20% of females ex-

pecting to be in a professional role by the time they reach 30. Just 7% of the 26% of 20-year-olds in employment were currently in managerial roles with just “a small group of professional class workers”. Having a job that is interesting was the top career priority for 63% of respondents, followed by job security for 52%. As for their social lives, 88% turned to their parents when they were short of cash, with just 13% seeking financial help from friends, who were an important source of emotional support for 86%. Mothers were also cited by 69% as a source of emotional support, while 67% said they would turn to a romantic partner.

No early schools close planned for Christmas THE Department of Education has said it is not considering closing schools any earlier than planned before Christmas. There have been calls for schools to finish up early. A professor of immunology at Dublin City University said it would be sensible to close schools early to give the best chance of limiting the spread of Covid-19 and to ensure schools reopen in January. Professor Christine Loscher said that if schools closed at the end of this week it would allow for a longer ‘circuit breaker’ ahead of Christmas when inter-generational mixing will occur. Prof. Loscher said a joinedup decision was needed on the issue.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Ah, grasshopper, and the drop of port at Christmas MY psychologist friend from Magherafelt has invited me around to his place on Christmas morning. He says his good lady is trying out some new hors d’oeuvres with the port and Prosecco. Dried grasshoppers and dried yellow mealworm — larva from the Tenebrio Molitor beetle to you and me. I kid you not. The grasshoppers are the second ‘novel food’ to be approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) which gave the green light earlier this year to your everyday dried yellow mealworm. The watchdog says so-called ‘migratory locusts’ — Locusta migratoria, or grasshoppers — can now be eaten in frozen, dried or powdered form. The legs and wings, I gather, are removed in the frozen and dried varieties. The EFSA says the insects have a high protein content and are “safe under the pro-

posed uses and use levels”. However, my psychologist friend says I might want to pass on the grasshoppers on Christmas morning if I am allergic to crustaceans, dust mites and molluscs — or if I’m gluten intolerant. Hmmm... Europe made the announcement following an application by Dutch firm Fair Insects BV, with its parent company Protix saying the ‘new snacks’ are “a promising ingredient to achieving a circular food system in balance with nature”. Protix also manufactures crickets, mealworm and flies as snacks for us humans. “It is up to consumers to decide whether they want to eat insects or not,” the Commission says. “Insects as an alternate source of protein is not new and they are regularly eaten in many parts of the world.” Apparently, the global edible insects market was estimated

at close to €873 million last year. Well, you live and learn, I say. The irony is not lost on me that the new snack foods come in the same week that a UN report tells us that more than one billion people, one in seven of the world’s population, are starving and that we in the First World annually waste a staggering one third of all food purchased. And another thing: we think nothing of eating veal or venison, pheasant or partridge, rabbit or rooster — indeed, anything that once was a breathing entity and mam or dad to a couple of kids. Anything but, eh, dried grasshoppers ... I remember as a teenager going to the art-house cinema to see a movie called Mondo Bizarro — about bizarre goings-on in a bizarre world — and seeing people dining at a long table somewhere in Morocco or Algiers. To the

MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre appeal

right of each person sat at the table was a small monkey strapped into a neck brace. Still alive, until their would-be consumer caved in their skulls with a large nutcracker and scooped out their still-warm brains and gobbled the lot down. With ne’er a hiccup. There’s no accounting for taste. I have never eaten monkey’s brains, nor have I any desire to do so. Sheep’s yes, and I have eaten my fair share of other animals in time. I have eaten, while travelling, lion, crocodile (excellent), warthog (wonderful), kudu, ostrich and buffalo. Frogs, snails, the aforementioned cicada, dung beetle and honeypot ants. Flying ants roasted with salt and lime and mopping worms which are dearer than beef in some places. Oh, and praying mantis. I never saw the little green guy pray so hard as I plucked him from his bush in Zimbabwe once and sent him

‘Reindeer is one of the leanest meats . .

”

acids. “Reindeer meat is very healthy,” Ammar Eltayeb Ali Hassan, a PhD candidate at the University of Trams in Norway, tells me in an email. “It contains more than double the values of some nutrients than other meats, and is comparable to chicken in fat.” I guess when it comes to food and individual tastes, it’s horses (sorry!) for courses. Despite all the culinary delights I have downed down the years, at the end of the day it’s hard to beat a good old smoked cod and chips — straight out of the bag. No dried grasshopper would keep me from that little post-pub indulgence. Meanwhile, I think I just might give my psychologist’s house a miss on Christmas morning. I was never a big fan of his good lady, and, anyways, I prefer a packet of ‘salt ‘n’ vinegar’ with my drop of port...

Trinity Merchants – reader’s preferred merchant of the year TRINITY MERCHANTS LTD topped the polls as Readers Preferred Merchant of the Year. The Campaign for this award was run across Plumbing & Heating Magazine Irelands social media platforms, where their readers gave top marks to Trinity across the board for their customer service, technical knowledge and extensive product range. Trinity Merchants was set up with the aim of giving customers the best service and product range at

MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre’s annual toy appeal is back! The annual campaign sees the Centre team up with local charities Newpark Family Resource Centre, Amber Women’s Refuge and Kilkenny Helping the Homeless to provide toys to families in need to enable them to fully enjoy the magic of Christmas! Donations (big and small!) are now being accepted in MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre, simply drop off your gifts at the Customer Service Desk. Food donations for St Vincent de Paul are also being accepted, contributions can be left in the donation trolley outside Dunnes Stores. Thank you for your support this Christmas.

straight down the hatch. It was for a dare and I have lived with the guilt. Speaking of Christmas, reindeer is one of the leanest meats and compares favourably with fish when it comes to omega-3 and essential fatty

the keenest prices, the company originated out of the idea that, transparent pricing, customer service and product quality are the three most important factors in gaining the trust of Trades and Public alike - whilst delivering excellent customer satisfaction, delivering top class service and meeting client’s expectations. Trinity Merchants opened its doors for the first time just a few months before the initial lock down. The Company faced difficult challenges

resulting from the almost complete shutdown of the sector and the following supply and logistical knock-on effects it caused including the challenges of Brexit, all very trying times for any business let alone a fledgling enterprise. This meant receiving such a prestigious award from the readers of Plumbing & Heating Magazine Ireland much appreciated and provided a much-needed lift in moral. Trinity Merchants would like to thank all its customers for their much appreciated and valued business over the last two years - Business and support that was instrumental in us achieve this Award and we will continue to do our utmost to provide you with a 1st class service, quality Heating, Plumbing Tile and Bathrooms products in the future.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

News

New aircraft training hangar at Waterford Airport AN Enterprise Ireland client company, Atlantic Flight Training Academy @atlanticflight, headquartered at Cork airport, has announced the official opening of its new IAA approved aircraft maintenance hangar at its second Irish pilot training base at Waterford Airport. Since 1995 AFTA has trained 2,300 graduates who are employed with the world’s

leading airlines including, Ryanair, Aer Lingus, easyJet, British Airways, Air Astana, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific and many more carriers. AFTA’s new IAA approved aircraft maintenance hangar will service AFTA’s modern aircraft training fleet, which includes the super-efficient, ergonomically designed,

Diamond DA42NGs and Twin Stars, Piper PA34 Seneca and C172 fleet. AFTA operate 24 aircraft, five flight simulators and employs over 55 people. The addition of the enhanced maintenance facility will add extra high skill jobs for the Waterford region. Speaking at Waterford Airport, the Minister of State with responsibility for Skills and Further Education, Niall

Collins TD, said: “Atlantic Flight Training Academy’s new aircraft maintenance facility at Waterford airport is an investment in the future of Irish aviation outside of Dublin, providing the essential infrastructure to support the ever-growing pilot training academy and creating highly skilled jobs for aircraft engineers and pilot instructors.

“Making education and training available to people where they are, near to home so they don’t have to leave to learn or to get a job, is a key priority.” Aidan Power, Waterford Airport Manager, said: “Atlantic Flight Training Academy has been utilising Waterford as a training airport for the past 24 years and in 2018 committed to a full-time op-

erational base at the airport. During the last three years pilot training at Waterford has grown exponentially.” AFTA Chief Executive Officer Mark Casey said: “Government support for our regional airport infrastructure is of utmost importance to aviation career development and the creation of highly skilled jobs which are decentralised from Dublin.”

Schools need help to get Covid filters into classes SCHOOLS say they need more official support to decide on what Hepa filters they should buy to help tackle Covid in the classroom by cleaning the air. The country’s 4,000 schools will receive direct funding for their purchase, rather than making them available through a centralised Department of Education procurement process. The money will be paid through the annual minor works scheme, which is being expanded, and boosted to €62m in value to allow for investment on air filtration. Primary and special education schools will share €45m, up 50pc from €30m last year, while post-primary schools, which are not normally covered by the minor works scheme, will receive a total of €17m. Not every classroom may need a filter and the Department has issued general technical guidance on their use. Filters vary widely and prices regularly quoted were of the order of €300-€500 per classroom, but Taoiseach Micheál Martin put a figure of between €1,500 and €1,800 on the air cleaners that schools would need. While there was a general welcome for the increased funding, education representatives say schools don’t have the necessary expertise and are calling for supports to underpin the purchase of filtration equipment. The department will issue a further circular to schools this week and the education sector is waiting to see the detail of that. It is understood that it will advise schools to contact a local architect or engineer, if they have doubts about how to proceed. Irish National Teachers’ Or-

ganisation (INTO) General Secretary John Boyle described the extra funding as “a step in the right direction” but said it was essential “that clear guidance is given to schools to enable this money to be put to good use in the new year”. Irish Primary Principals’ Network (IPPN) CEO Páiric Clerkin said it was a welcome development but that primary schools were going to need a lot of support in terms of ensuring that it was managed effectively and efficiently. He said schools would need to be able draw on relevant professionals to ensure that they were putting the right system in place. Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) General Secretary Michael Gillespie also said it was crucial that the Department “provides access to expertise on ventilation and related issues so that schools can best use the resources available”. He said no two schools were the same and even within particular schools, classroom spaces were not uniform in terms of size, shape, orientation and ventilation facilities. Sinn Féin education spokesperson Donnchadh O Laoghaire said the Department had “dropped a Christmas present of additional administration on the desks of school leaders who are already under severe pressure”. He said filtration would have been better centrally procured and “the least the Department could have done is provide clear support for principals on what to buy and where to buy it”. Labour education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin welcomed the additional funding.

Students compete for Climate Award STUDENTS from Kilkenny City Vocational School will hold their own SciFest STEM Fair with the chance of winning the EirGrid Climate and Delivering a Cleaner Energy Future Award. EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid has partnered with SciFest to create the climate and energy focused award for its SciFest@School programme. SciFest@School is a second-level programme promoting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) education by providing a forum for students to present and display their scientific investigations.

EirGrid is working to transform the power system for future generations and as such, wants to listen and learn from those who will be integral in Ireland’s efforts to achieve at least 70% of electricity consumption via renewable energy sources by 2030 – an important step on the journey to 80% and to net zero by 2050. The EirGrid ‘Climate and Delivering a Cleaner Energy Future’ Award will be presented to the secondary school students who design a creative, innovative approach to utilising energy from clean resources. The Kilkenny City Vocational School students will

hold their fair this Friday, December 17. Speaking about EirGrid’s involvement in the nationwide programme, Errol Close, Head of Strategy and Sustainability with EirGrid, said: “EirGrid’s strategy is shaped by climate change and delivering a cleaner energy future. Achieving this will require strong development of the skills and critical thinking required across society. “Our partnership with SciFest Aoffers not only the opportunity to promote greater participation in STEM subjects but also to support young people to develop these skills and

showcase their innovation and creativity in addressing an existential challenge like climate change,” said Mr Close. Welcoming EirGrid’s involvement, SciFest’s Founder and CEO Sheila Porter said: “We are excited and proud to have EirGrid join SciFest as a Silver Sponsor. EirGrid is leading the charge in making Ireland’s green and renewable dream a reality. Only through innovation and critical thinking, core skills nurtured by the SciFest programme, can we, as a society rise to the challenge presented by climate change and the need for cleaner energy.”

State Street sees strong local growth IRISH funds have highlighted the industry’s continued growth in Ireland, where, in the Kilkenny area alone, there are currently 18 funds and asset management companies employing almost 1,000 people. During the recent virtual Irish Funds Regional Economic Impact event, participants reflected on the 30th anniversary of Irish Funds and the findings of the latest Indecon Economic Assessment report, which revealed that the industry now represents 180 enterprises operat-

ing in every county in Ireland and directly employs more than 17,000 people, with an estimated total economic impact of €14.8bn. Speaking at the event, Cathal Smyth, Managing Director, State Street, Kilkenny said: “This year State Street has been celebrating 25 years in Ireland and 20 years in Kilkenny. We currently employ approximately 2,000 staff in Ireland across Dublin, Drogheda, Naas and Kilkenny and have recently announced an additional 400 jobs in our Kilkenny site.

“We have benefited not only from the strong financial services and tech eco-system in Ireland, and the south-east, but also relationships with local policy makers and community partners. “The latest Indecon reporx=t reflects the important role our industry plays as an employer and net-economic contributor across the island of Ireland and State Street is delighted to continue to play its part in this.” Pat Lardner, Irish Funds CEO, said: “The funds and asset management industry

continues to play a pivotal role in showcasing what Ireland has to offer and delivering tangible economic benefits to local communities. Recent figures have highlighted the contribution of the funds industry to regional development with a 40 per cent increase in the number of employees based outside of Dublin in the last two years. “As we emerge from the pandemic, Irish Funds will continue to support investment and drive sustainable growth across the island,” he said.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

Opinion

Look out behind you! It’s Panto time! AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

THERE was an awful moment of doubt in the’ Oh no you can’t, oh yes you can’ dilemma about whether or not it was all right to go to the Pantomime in these Covid curtailed times. But thankfully Panto tradition has survived given the reassurance from on high that we can still enjoy one of the treats of the year. Growing up in Belfast the highlight of the festive season, after the day itself, was the Christmas pantomime. Performed in the gilt and plush of the 1895 Grand Opera House. Whatever happened to be on, from Aladdin to Puss ‘N Boots, would be a brilliant mix of familiar and surprise in a tradition which has its roots in the masques and gender bending casting of the 17th century. As a kid I didn’t bother my barney about why the principal boy was a girl with fantastic legs on show or why the Pantomime dame was a guy. The gold elephants decorating the auditorium were a worry though. Wouldn’t they get tired holding up those pillars? Like my brother and sister, I would

be on the edge of my seat waiting for the transformation scene where Aladdin’s jewelled cave, Cinderella’s ball scene or the world Jack found when he climbed the beanstalk would be revealed as if by magic. Then there was the sheer glee of watching actors sling custard pies at each other

Psoriasis CLAIR WHITTY

LET’S talk about psoriasis. This is a chronic autoimmune skin condition where the skin can be inflamed, with red and scaly patches, these patches can be itchy, and can crack and bleed. The skin cells are producing faster than in healthy skin causing this build-up of scales. for example, on the elbows and knees but it can develop on any part of the body. There are many contributing factors including hormonal imbalance, stress, and digestive

problems. You may be intolerant to certain foods and these are best avoided. Foods that can aggravate include: alcohol, chocolate, dairy, sugar, yeast, gluten, or wheat especially during a flare-up. Keep an eye on the products you put on your skin, they can have nasty ingredients that can cause problems too. There are many supplements that you could consider. The main ones I would recommend would a probiotic, Vitamin D, an Omega 3 fish oil supplement to help reduce inflammation, with Milk Thistle to support liver health. You will need a cream to keep the skin hydrated. Take a look

or the audience participation and being able to roar out, “Look out he’s behind you” when the ghost or monster loomed behind an unsuspecting leading character. On one occasion the monster was a terrifying King Rat and it all got too much for my brother who howled and suffered nightmares afterwards. He was only four at Holos - This is More, Get Better Butter. It can be used on the face, hands, body, and feet, and is suitable for eczema, psoriasis, or any dry irritation of the skin. It’s a deeply hydrating creamy butter, suitable for sensitive skin. The product is a blend of Organic Shea Butter, Organic Cocoa butter & Jojoba oil with essential oils of juniper and lime. It’s vegan and cruelty-free. It can be used as a treatment and a maintenance cream. Holos creator Niamh Hogan says “Users are seeing improvements in their skin after a couple of days. It cleared up my own dermatitis which I had for 4 years”. Nutritional practitioners and Functional Medicine practitioners take an individual approach to your health. They look at your diet and lifestyle and help you to make the changes needed. You might be interested to take a look at Dr Hyman.com and see his 8 Strategies to Eliminate Psoriasis, I think you’ll find it an interesting read; I know I did, there is some useful information in there. Psoriasis can be complex, we don’t have a quick fix, but we are happy to chat with you to help guide you in the right direction. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie Shop online www. naturalhealthstore.ie

at the time but he was back again the following year for another show. Our parents enjoyed the shows too, I guess on different levels revisiting their own childhoods, laughing at the double meanings and political jokes children didn’t get. But most of all for the way kids believe what they see and are enchanted by the

magic created by the Panto cast. In towns and cities all around Ireland as Covid figures soared and there were rumours of another lockdown casts of the current pantomimes and theatre management must have been heaving a collective sigh of relief. The show will go on whether it’s

Cinderella at the Watergate Theatre in Kilkenny, Aladdin at the national Stadium in Dublin, Pinocchio The Greatest Wonder Of The Age at the Lyric Theatre in Belfast or Red Riding Hood at the Helix. All those incredible costumes, the gorgeous scenery and stories where children know that no matter how bad the baddies (and you get to boo them) the goodies always win in the end, won’t go to waste. Who knows if those seasonal shows with huge casts and costs, which rely on audience takings might not be back again next year and Covid would have claimed another victory. In this situation it’s been left to us to use our common sense and make our own decisions about whether or not it’s a good idea to go rather than being dictated to by the experts. Hopefully by the time the Panto season is in full swing the Covid numbers will have declined further, children will be getting vaccinated and more of us will have had our booster jabs. We all need some magic and enchantment in our lives especially right now. It’s good to know that need is recognised and that the child still survives in some of our decision makers. I hope they get a chance to go to the Panto too.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

News MOST of us will be familiar with that feeling right after Christmas dinner, and you slouch on the couch, and you just feel like sleeping. It might be just the afternoon, but there is a science behind that nap. Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr Deirdre O’Donovan saays our energy levels are profoundly affected by our gut health. “This can be through several mechanisms. We are all familiar with that desire to have a nap after Christmas dinner, and that is because a high-calorie meal requires an increase in blood flow to the gut as part of the digestive process with an associated drop in blood pressure systemically and particularly to our brains, hence that sleepy feeling. “I think there is a growing awareness that what we eat/ the gut health has a direct bearing on our energy levels. I guess what I would be more worried about is people not spotting an underlying condition. If symptoms are not improving it may be a sign of a more significant process going on that needs medical input.” The festive period tends to be a time for all the wrong foods, and while it’s nice to treat ourselves. GP Phillip Kieran says that our guts simply don’t like sugary, fatty or processed foods and be more mindful of what we consume. Dr O’Donovan says that meal composition is critical, and we want to aim for a nice balance of macronutrients to allow an easier digestive process. “In some cases, people will drop their blood pressure significantly after a carbohydraterich period. This applies particularly to people with diabetes and older patients who may feel tired after a meal or infants run the risk of fainting, and that’s caused by a problem of the autonomic nervous system. “In many cases, conditions like coeliac disease when untreated causes fatigue because patients do not absorb necessary nutrients, especially iron from their diet. Other gutrelated diseases which cause bleeding from the bowel can also result in anemia, and lack of energy may be the only sign to alert someone that something is wrong. For others, dysbiosis/alterations in the natural gut flora can contribute to what

SPECIAL REPORT

The science behind the festive ‘food Experts discuss causes, triggers and relief tips for the potential New Year’s ‘brain fog’

many refer to as ‘brain fog’ and profound lassitude, and this can be helped by introducing a good probiotic. Alflorex is one I generally recommend”. When we do feel run down or tired, a lot is happening in our gut. Depending on the cause, feeling run down can reflect underlying anemia, ie. low iron, or vitamin B12. “In those cases, your gut ‘villi’ the finger-like projections that absorb iron may be faltered as in the case of coeliac disease, or there may be antibodies

floating around in the blood preventing the absorption of B12 as in the case of Pernicious anemia,” says Dr O’Donovan. “Interestingly, a large proportion of our immune system is based in our gut, and our resident gut flora likely interacts with this daily. This can potentially switch on and off specific immune responses. This is an area where a lot of research is happening, so we await the outcome of those investigations and whether is some way we might be able to profile in detail

what’s happening to our gut flora during periods of stress in our lives and how our immune systems respond to this changes; more importantly how we might influence them positively,” says Dr.O’Donovan. Dr O’Donovan says people often ask if there is anything they can do to help, but at the start, it’s simple supportive management. She does recommend getting a good night’s sleep, reducing alcohol and caffeine. She says getting regular exercise and eating a balanced diet

also helps. Dr O’Donovan also says people should consider taking a probiotic like Alflorex. Maybe 2022 should be less about the ‘To Do’ lists and more about the ‘To Be’ lists? That sleep issue and your ability to fall asleep could be underpinned by the ruminating regrets of all the things you didn’t tick off the former list. Dr O’Donovan says: “It’s been a tough year for everyone. Be aware of how stress affects you as an individual as we are not designed to cope with

stress 24/7. Practice ‘self-care’ whether it’s learning to say no/ mindfulness/meditation/ complementary therapies such as acupuncture as they can all play a role. “Also, there’s always the debate of ‘nature vs nurture’, but we can’t blame genetics for everything. We see certain conditions affecting the bowel like inflammatory bowel disease where genetics is important, but often the timing of the disease presenting itself is influenced by a stressful period in one’s life, affecting immune responses. “It sounds corny, but we all need to listen to our bodies. Try and respect them, take the simple steps outlined here, and if symptoms persist or if it’s not improving it may be a sign of a more significant process going on that needs medical input, and you need to contact your GP.” Dr. Phillip Kiernan advises people to drink ample water, reduce alcohol consumption and keep up the exercise. “Water is the healthiest thing to drink and is particularly important for gut health. It’s easy to drink too much alcohol over Christmas, which can harm the lining of the gut and the balance of bacteria. Staying well hydrated with water can reduce some of this negative effect. “Although we might enjoy having a few beers or a few glasses of wine to relax, our guts too often pay the price. Flatulence, bloating, and belching are all common effects of booze on the gut. One of the best things you can do is to instead hydrate with water. Exercise is that magic medicine that positively affects every aspect of our health, and our gut is no exception,” he says. “In fact, there is evidence that exercise changes the bacteria in our guts for the better. It also helps prevent constipation and moves along with unwanted gas which can be an issue around Christmas time”. His advice is to reduce junk food and try a probiotic. “Try to avoid junk foods like soft drinks, biscuits, and chips. Also, make sure to get some fibre in the diet, this is so hard to do when we are surrounded with our usual Christmas fare. Instead, try to plan ahead and keep healthy snacks at hand,” he says.

How to eat well when gluten is your Grinch WHO wants to be ill at Christmas? The answer, of course, is no one. But for the more than 50,000 people with coeliac disease and 450,000 people who are gluten intolerant, spending time with family and friends during the festive season can be full of risk as they try to avoid becoming ‘glutened’ and sick as a result. To help those who need to live gluten free, and those who might be hosting them, the Coeliac Society of Ire- land, in association with Tesco Ireland, has created a comprehensive Gluten Free Christmas Survival Hub online. The hub is packed full of information and practical

advice from health and nutrition experts, as well as important tips, tasty recipes, and cook-along videos from top chefs, and helpful hints about staying healthy over the festive season. Most importantly, there is clear information on how to prepare food in a safe manner to avoid cross-contamination of food with gluten – allowing everyone to cater for guests who have to live gluten free. Coeliac Society of Ireland chief executive Gill Brennan said: “Christmas is a time of celebration and indulgence, and it should be no different for those who cannot eat anything containing gluten. Even

a tiny amount of it in someone’s Christmas dinner can make someone with coeliac disease very ill. “That’s why we developed the Gluten Free Christmas Survival Hub as a one-stop shop for not only the estimated 50,000 coeliac sufferers and 450,000 who are gluten intolerant in Ireland, but for family and friends who might be cooking for them over the festive season. “Living with a lifelong autoimmune condition like coeliac disease or being severely gluten intolerant can be stressful at the best of times. Around Christmas it can be worse as sufferers try to navi-

gate various social occasions where they could accidentally be fed something that will make them ill. “For those hosting coeliacs, the last thing they want to do is cause one of their guests to suffer unnecessarily. The good news is that with the right information and advice, all of this can be avoided, and we would encourage everyone to visit the Gluten Free Christmas Survival Hub on the Coeliac Society website to find out more.” * Information on how to cater for coeliacs, and recipes from top chefs at www. coeliac.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

News Your Money

How your cash can help with climate change BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

ABOUT half of people in Ireland have engaged in consumer actions to reduce climate change in the last year. Most favour spending carbon tax revenues on programmes to reduce carbon emissions and prepare for climate change impacts, according to the latest report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Some of the key findings include: • 76% say they know at least a moderate amount about climate change • 96% of people agree that climate change is happening • 60% say the change is caused by human activity • and 33% saying the cause is equally human and natural changes. • 85% are worried about climate change and believe we are harming the planet for future generations. Regarding the weather, 88% think climate change is the problem and believe that

in the next 10 years a high percentage of people in Ireland will become increasingly exposed to the result of climate change that we currently see happening elsewhere like rising sea levels, water shortages, flooding and a rise in agricultural pests and diseases. However, Irish people are

positive about the economic and quality of life benefits that can be achieved through climate change action, where 62% think such action will improve economic growth and create jobs, and 78% that acting now will improve Ireland’s quality of life into the future. People are willing to take

political action to reduce climate change with about half indicating they have changed the way they now shop and intend to increase their ‘consumer activism’ in the next year. Nine in 10 believe that politicians, the Government, and businesses should be doing a whole lot more while 78% say

they should be doing more. With many not sure how to proceed, how about using your money? Insurance Companies have implemented Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) procedures, including comprehensive data and technology solutions that allow their portfolio managers to see and interrogate ESG metrics into investment processes. According to Aviva this allows them to review where they invest their shareholders’ and your money, thereby giving us, the clients, access to a range of investments that they believe “offer the best potential of generating strong returns over the long-term while supporting significant progress towards a fairer and more sustainable world”. Zurich states in their brochures that they are committed to Responsible Investment and is a signatory to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment which is all about “doing well and doing good”. Irish Life on their website want you to know that “they will do right by your money”. Why are insurance companies moving in this direction? According to New Ireland, it’s due to “a major shift in emphasis with investors towards accomplishing the goal of a

better financial future, while at the same time, helping the world to be a better place”. But, also, it’s due to the EU driving change on ESG. They have identified 64 adverse impact indicators, of which 18 will be mandatory to report on and 46 will be voluntary. The 18 indicators consider standard ESG factors including greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, water, waste, violation of global standards, unadjusted gender pay gap, board gender diversity and xxposure to controversial weapons. Insurance and investment companies must give an undertaking that they will start considering these 18 principles by a certain date, and endeavour to develop systems that will implement ways to integrate the other adverse impact indicators. Insurance company websites have areas now devoted to ESG funds. Let’s do a little research over the Christmas period and consider what we could do with some of the funds in our savings policies and pension plans and make adjustments that will not only increase our wealth but bring good cheer to all people everywhere. john@ellisfinancial.ie

Hypnosis in the real world ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

AMONG the therapies which have been around a long time but are suddenly gaining popularity, hypnotherapy is perhaps one of the misunderstood. As soon as you say the word “hypno”, people think of what they have seen on television, or perhaps as part of a stage show. Individuals reduced to a zombie-like state, following the beck and call of the hypnotist. Squawking like chickens, doing funny dances or any other mirthsome activity. And it puts many off. Long-term readers of this column will know I’m a hypnotherapist. You may also know that I don’t place a lot of credibility in such shows. I’m open to convincing otherwise but I think there’s more of the staged about such performances than any actual control. Why do I say this? Well, to put it bluntly, despite training and experience working as a

hypnotherapist, I absolutely cannot control your or anybody else’s mind. Nor would I want to. And I don’t believe anybody else can either, at least not through hypnosis. Simply put, the hypnotic state is not a great deal different to deep meditation or your mind just before you fall asleep. If in either of those situations I asked you to howl like a vixen, your response might involve a pair of words, one of which sounds like fox. All hypnotherapy is in a nutshell is getting you into a deeply relaxed state so your suggestions can be communicated to your subconscious mind. That’s where the magic happens. This part of your brain is at least 30,000 times stronger than the conscious area and it’s the zone which controls habits. You will have noted that I said “your suggestions”. Yours. Not mine. That bit is crucial to the whole process. If I, or any other hypnotherapist, tried to implant their ideas, your brain would reject them. It simply wouldn’t work. So, for example, if I used hypnosis on a commit-

ted smoker with no intention of quitting and suggested they gave up the cigarettes, there is next to zero chance of it working. The will simply wouldn’t be there. Hypnotherapy transforms a conscious desire into a subconscious habit but it can only do that if the person themselves wants to change. Incidentally, for people who actually do want to stop smoking, hypnotherapy is proven to be one of the quickest and most effective ways of doing just that and of making the change permanent. Like any therapy, hypnotherapy works better on some people than others. That’s why any hypnotherapist who takes their practice seriously, offers you a free consultation prior to agreeing to treat you. During a brief chat, the therapist will get to know you, and you them, and be able to make a decision on your suitability. If hypnotherapy isn’t a good fit to you, a good therapist will explain this and why. Next week, I’ll look at some of the benefits attached to hypnotherapy.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

Science & Wellbeing BY JONNY THOMSON SANTA keeps a list of all the good and bad children. He gives presents to those who behave well and nothing (or maybe a lump of coal) to those who don’t. The problem is that if children do good things only because they want presents, then it strips that action of any moral worth. Knowing about the list removes you from it. The issue is similar to that for monotheistic religions: Is doing something “because God is watching” actually that praiseworthy? Let’s assume Santa knows every good and bad action a child does (ignoring his violation of privacy laws, for now). He tallies the scores, and using his highly enigmatic formula, decides who gets presents and who gets a lump of dusty coal. The question is whether an action can ever really be ‘good’ if it is only done for the sake of material reward — to get a huge stack of presents. Can a child do anything, especially in December, without having at least one eye on Santa’s list? The issue is whether our motivations make an action right or wrong. If a child only ever acts morally because he wants to get on Santa’s good list, is this a truly good act? Intuitively, we want to say that such rampant selfinterest rather diminishes an action’s moral worth. A good deed done for the sheer sake of being kind or loving or generous is better than one for which we are compensated. For German philosopher Immanuel Kant, actions can only be called moral if they are ‘categorical’ in this way — that is to say, they were done for their own sake. “Hypothetical” actions, like “if I do this,

‘There’s a moral conundrum with Santa’s list...

He’s making a list, he’s checkin’ it twice .... I’ll get a reward” are not bad per se, but depend too much on slippery fortunes. We must use our reason, as this is uniform and stable: Everyone can do good deeds, so everyone can be moral. But is this realistic or even possible? The philosopher Hume believed that reason could never motivate us to action. Reason can tell us how to do something, like how to get from A to B, but it cannot motivate us to actually start the journey to B. We

need “passions,” like a desire for presents, to make us do anything. After all, biologically and psychologically, why do we do anything at all if it isn’t from the wanting of getting something from it — even if it is just praise or a lovely serotonin spike? Santa isn’t the only bearded man in the sky watching and judging us. In the three major monotheistic religions of the world, you have an all- seeing God watching your every good and bad deed. For Mus-

lims, Christians, and Jews, to be religious is to have at least half a mind constantly vigilant to the fact that there is a deity not only watching what you’re doing but what you’re thinking, as well. In Catholic theology, there is also the idea of “imperfect contrition” or “attrition”. This is where the penitent is only confessing or avoiding sin from fear of hell, or want of heaven, rather than from genuine remorse. This is not enough to make the

worshipper sinful — it is still an acceptable path toward piety — but it is seen as a less praiseworthy motivation. To many atheists, the idea of only doing good because “God is watching” is pretty distasteful. Does it mean to say that if God were to take a holiday, we can all kill, steal, and abuse as much as we wanted? Did you only give me this birthday gift because it is a step on the stairway to heaven? Isn’t morality something that should be done for

its own sake, not because of God’s saying so? The paradox of Santa’s nice list So, there is a problem with Santa’s naughty or nice List, which goes like this: 1. Santa will give gifts only to children on his good list — that is, those who do good deeds. 2. A deed cannot be good if it is self-interested and/or done for material reward (like gifts). 3. A child who knows about Santa’s list will act from selfinterest. Therefore, any child who knows about Santa’s list cannot be on it. So, if you want to be kind to the children in your life this year, don’t tell them about Santa’s list. Tell them that Santa’s not watching or that he’ll give presents to everyone. And, if you know anyone who is being kind just because they want presents, it is not too late to wrap that piece of coal. *Jonny Thomson teaches philosophy in Oxford. He runs a popular Instagram account called Mini Philosophy (@ philosophyminis). His first book is Mini Philosophy: A Small Book of Big Ideas.

Dogs not a healthy lot... and not just at Christmas MOST modern dog breeds were established in just the last 200 years through rampant inbreeding to achieve desired looks and demeanours. This is causing some breeds to experience serious health problems. On average, purebred dogs require 24.4% more non-routine vet visits than mixed breed dogs. The average dog breed is highly inbred, with a genotypic profile that you might expect if two siblings mated, according to new research conducted by scientists at the University of California. As you might have guessed, this is not at all good for pups’ health. The researchers, led by animal geneticist Dr. Danika Bannasch, determined the level of inbreeding for 227 different breeds, testing dataset of 49,378 dogs. She found, “The majority of dog breeds display high levels of inbreeding well above what would be considered safe for either humans or wild animal populations.”

Just 11 of the 227 analysed breeds had an inbreeding score of 0.125 or less, equivalent to a cross between two half-siblings. The vast majority of the dogs scored 0.25 or above that, a value you would expect if two siblings or a par-

ent and offspring reproduced. The researchers then paired this inbreeding information with pet insurance data from the company Agria, which provided the rate of nonroutine veterinary care events per 10,000 dog-years for each

breed. With these figures, Bannasch and her colleagues calculated that, on average, purebred dogs require 24.4% more non-routine vet visits than mixed breed dogs. These are visits for injuries, diseases, or other unexpected maladies.

Not all dog breeds are alike in terms of health, however. Tamaskan Dogs, Barbets, Australian Labradoodles, DanishSwedish Farmdogs, Mudis, and Koolies were some of the least inbred, and they had rates of vet care comparable

to mixed-breed dogs. Border Terriers, Chow Chows, Pomeranians, Samoyeds, Shiba Inus, Collies, English setters, and Siberian Huskies also maintained decent health, despite being more inbred. Dogs with brachycephaly, a facial feature characterised by short, stubby noses which makes it difficult to breathe, were some of the most inbred and required lots of veterinary attention — 44.6% more than a mixed breed dog. Bulldogs and Pugs fall into this category. Larger inbred breeds like Mastiffs and Rottweilers also suffered from more health problems on average, particularly owing to their immense size. Labradors and Golden Retrievers, consistently two of the most popular dog breeds in the world, also were highly inbred and needed more vet care than average. Retrievers commonly fall victim to painful hip issues and are stricken with cancer at disturbingly high rates.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Travel & Leisure WHETHER you’re dining along the spectacular Elbe River or attending a show at the magnificent concert house on the harbour, Hamburg’s ranking as a top seafaring capital makes for a fabulously fascinating trip. From spending a night on a vintage German ship to boarding a submarine, here are the best ways to uncover history, cuisine, outdoor activities, and culture on and around the water during a trip to Hamburg. 1. Watch the music — and water — flow Hamburg’s newest landmark and a premiere concert-hall complex, the Elbphilharmonie — lovingly nicknamed Elphi by locals — lies on the banks of the Elbe River and is surrounded by water on three sides. Many come here to listen to music performed by world-class orchestras and ensembles enhanced by the building’s crystal-clear acoustics. Made of shimmering glass, this architectural marvel also boasts views of the harbour and city at every turn. For a real treat, head to the public viewing platform, perched more than 120 feet above sea level.

7 ways to explore Hamburg, a great maritime city

2. See where a maritime empire began Built between 1885 and 1927, Speicherstadt and Kontorhaus District — the world’s largest single complex of traditional brick warehouses and a UNESCO World Heritage site —s tands as a living symbol of Hamburg’s maritime trading tradition. Old canals, bridges, and narrow streets link the miniature city of buildings that helped establish Hamburg as a global power; the most spectacular of which, Chilehaus, was designed to resemble the bow of a ship. Today, the area has been transformed into a vibrant cultural quarter where travellers can visit the International Maritime Museum of Hamburg, wander charming cafes, and sample two products that were once stored here, coffee and chocolate, at the respective Museum of Coffee and Chocoversum. 3. Appreciate the smaller things In Speicherstadt, you’ll also find Miniatur Wunderland, the world’s biggest model railway and the most popular tourist attraction in all of Germany. Constructed from more than 50,000 feet of track, 4,110 buildings, and 1,040 trains, this whimsical display allows guests to visit different ant-sized worlds like South America, Venice, and of course, Hamburg itself. You can also learn how cities are run. For example, in the Scandinavia section, the real water basin holds nearly 8,000 gallons of water to illustrate how computer-operated ship traffic works. 4. Board (yes, board) a museum Hamburg is home to multiple

museum ships docked up and down the Elbe River. One of the most popular, former cargo ship MS Cap San Diego, sailed the South Atlantic between 1961 and 1988, transporting goods like coffee, cotton, cocoa, beef and clothing to Germany. Get a glimpse of what life was like onboard and even book an overnight stay. Want to go deeper? The U-434 Submarine Museum allows visitors to experience a trip below sea level in a Soviet warship, among the longest non-atomic submarines in the world. 5. Kick back and enjoy the lake life Ask any resident, and they’ll tell you that the Alster Lakes

form the heart and soul of Hamburg’s daily life. Made up of two lakes called the Außenalster (Outer Alster) and the Binnenalster (Inner Alster), these water reservoirs were organically created during medieval times to power mills. Now the Outer Alster — surrounded by green parks and opulent mansions — is more popularly used as an escape from the busy city. Spend an afternoon here and do as the locals do by renting a boat, canoe, kayak, or standup paddleboard. On the Inner Alster, take a walk along the magnificent Jungfernstieg, a regal waterside promenade with some of Hamburg’s best dining and shopping.

6. Experience a virtual journey across the sea Dedicated to Hamburg’s history as the ‘Port of Dreams’, the Emigration Museum BallinStadt Hamburg illustrates how Hamburg became the Gateway to the World for about five million European emigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries as they left for the Americas from Hamburg. Walk in their footsteps through interactive displays, original documents, riveting exhibits, and even a multimedia game. If you’re interested in researching your own family’s past, the museum offers visitors access to their database of

census lists and passenger lists from 1850 to 1934. 7. Take to the water No trip to Hamburg is complete without a guided harbour boat tour. While you’ll have your pick of vessels, the most traditional is a Barkasse (former dockworkers ferry) — a classic Hamburg experience. Set sail from the Landungsbrücken piers and enjoy a relaxing, educational ride around the industrial docks, Speicherstadt warehouses, and modern architecture highlights like Hafencity Hamburg, a blueprint for the new European city on the waterfront.

All aboard for even more Orient Express journeys THERE are half a dozen luxurious new sleeper trains ready to make tracks across Italy. The famed, century-old train service Orient Express, which is helmed by French hospitality group Accor, has just announced it’s launching six lavish locomotives in 2023 that will take travelLers through the boot-shaped country and beyond. The aptly named La Dolce Vita trains will offer 15 itineraries across Italy and Europe. The 12 scenic routes in Italy will cover 14 of the country’s regions, stopping at a total of 131 cities plus an array iconic destinations, such as the Alps and Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia. In addition, three international itineraries will take sightseers from Rome to Paris, Istanbul or Split; it’s essentially a way to travel across Europe without ever boarding a flight. The trips will last anywhere from one to three nights, and, on some routes, there will even be a stopover in Rome that includes a stay in the first Orient Express Hotel, Minerva, which is scheduled to open in 2024. Passengers will also get exclusive access to the Orient Express executive lounge at Roma Termini Station, where refreshments will be served prior to boarding. “Against the backdrop of breathtaking panoramas and a unique blend of cultures, we are convinced that travelers will have unforgettable experiences in Italy with Orient Express La Dolce Vita,” Stephen Alden, CEO Raffles and Orient Express, Accor, said in a statement. As the moniker implies, the trains pay homage to ‘La Dolce Vita’ which was a period of glamour and artistic fervour Italy enjoyed during the ‘60s. (It’s artfully reflected in Fellini’s film of the same name.) Designed by Dimorestudio, each train exudes that effortless Italian elegance, with the sumptuous décor directly inspired by the craftsmanship and creativity of the aforementioned era. There will be 11 cars per train, offering space for 63 passengers across 12 deluxe cabins and 18 suites. Elsewhere on board, there will be a restaurant carriage for fine dining and a lounge bar with live entertainment.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

Book review

Miracles do happen

THE MOON Graceful crescent arc appears Gazing on our shadowy world,

“Miracles do happen”, was the delighted response from newly-published Kilkenny writer Maria Marshall, whose “Meandering Ideas” book of poetry was accepted last year by London Publishers Austin Macauley. ORIGINALLY, it was following a six-week course run by well-known author Grace Wells, that Maria’s interest in writing developed. She was one of the founder-members of Loughboy Writers Group around 2004. Her deeper interest in writing was developed by the friendship, enthusiasm and sharing experienced in the Writers Group. Eventually, about four years ago, it led to her selfpublishing “A Child War” about her Irish family’s experience of living in London throughout WW2. Maria’s parents were originally from Co. Westmeath where she still has fond links with cousins. She and her late husband Peter moved to Ireland in 2000 to be near two of their daughtersNoreen and Mairead and their families. The poems in “Meandering Ideas” cover subjects ranging from the beauty of nature to

Mind-boggling discoveries about the universe, as well as places and events in Kilkenny City. One which has brought great praise is “Betrayal” – based on Caravaggio’s longlost painting “The Taking of Christ” featured in an RTE Documentary and which now resides in The National Art Gallery in Dublin. Also see one of Maria’s wonderful poems “The Moon” featured elsewhere on this page. Many readers will remember the very touching “Famine Exhibition” at Mac Donagh Junction In 2012; Maria felt very honoured at that time that the Manager, Donie Butler, read her Poem “Hope” She has been interviewed on KCLR a few times and was a regular reader of her poetry on Kilkenny Community Radio’s “Sunday Serendipity”. “Meandering Ideas” by Maria Marshall published by

Mantled by her Milky Way gown She carries aloft a star-studded crown. Throne supported by the starry throng Crystal sparks once lost souls. Luminous figure gradually growing,

Austin Macauley Publishers, Canary Wharf, London, 2021. Now available on line – Book Depository, Ebay, and Kennys of Galway and shortly to be available in Kilkenny – The Book Centre, Khans and Bargain Books.

Mother waiting for fulfilment. Rhythms of life ebb and flow As she steadily sweeps across the skies, Beams on her subjects spread below Who gaze on her with worshipping eyes While drawing out powers of creationBut some minds stumble over the abyss. Like us, she has a darker side When all that beauty’s dimmed and grey; All that’s bright seems to have died, Rays of truth secreted away; That curtain of grey can mask her from view. With bated breath the watchers wait Till she re-appears, a glowing bride, Visage unwrinkled, radiant, young; A soothing face to gaze upon Unlike her sizzling sister Sun. When her reign of glory is over, Finally deflated, she gently gives view To a newborn babe crescent in shape

A previously published book of poetry ‘A Child’s War’ by Maria Marshall Photo: Pat Shortall

Writer Maria Marshall with her newly published book of poems ‘Meandering Ideas’ Photo: Pat Shortall

Starting the cycle of life anew. Maria Marshall

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Bord Bia €13.4m. global campaigns BORD BIA has won the contract to promote EU beef, lamb, dairy and horticulture across Asia, Europe and the US in three campaigns valued at €13.4 million for the next three years. This comprises €9.7 million in EU funding and €3.7 million from Bord Bia and industry funding. The first campaign, ‘Euro-

pean Dairy: the Sustainable Choice for Asia’, will see dairy promoted in Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines while the second campaign, ‘Working with Nature : European Beef and Lamb’, will be targeting trade buyers in China, Japan, South Korea and the US. The third promotional cam-

paign, ‘Life is Better with Fruit and Vegetables’, will be rolled out in France and Belgium with partner agencies Interfel, Freshfel and Association Interprofessionnelle de la Banane along with Bord Bia Ireland and is aimed at promoting fruit and vegetables for Millennials (25-40 year olds). This campaign is significant

in that along with educating Millennials on increasing their consumption of fruit and vegetables as part of a healthy and balanced diet, the campaign will, for the first time, also provide information on sustainable consumption methods such as waste reduction. Since 2016, the value of Irish

food and drink exports to Asia has increased 14% to €1.4 billion. Tara McCarthy, Bord Bia Chief Executive, welcomed the funding and said that Bord Bia`s imprint on the campaign would widen the recognition of Ireland as a secure supplier of safe and sustainably produced beef, lamb and dairy at

One third of us plans to be up in air for Christmas

IFA holds top talks with EU finance chief AN IFA delegation led by President Tim Cullinan met EU Commissioner for Financial Stability, Financial Services and the Capital Markets Union Mairead McGuinness in Dublin recently to discuss CAP Reform, input prices, the Brexit Adjustment Reserve, as well as taxonomy and live exports. “While CAP Reform has more or less concluded at EU level, we stressed to Mairead McGuinness that the Irish Government needs to use the latitude negotiated in the agreement to do more to support productive farmers and the vulnerable sectors,” said Mr Cullinan. In addition, Member States should be allowed to use the flexibility available to them, rather than feeling pressurised to implement the targets in the EU Farm to Fork plan, which are not binding. “We also highlighted our concern about escalating input prices on farm margins, and the need for the EU to remove anti-dumping duties that apply on fertiliser coming into the EU,” he said. “While the allocation to Ireland under the Brexit Adjustment Reserve is certainly welcome, it’s unclear within the terms and conditions how farmers will qualify. Farmers have not felt the full brunt of Brexit so far, but the trade deals the UK are doing and the impact this could have on Irish farmers in the period ahead is concerning,” Tom Cullinan said. He said they emphasised the challenges posed by the removal of UK concessions through 2022, as well as concerns about Irish producers being able to secure seed potatoes from the UK. The importance of the classification of agricultural activities under the EU’s Taxonomy plan, which Commissioner McGuinness has responsibility for, was also discussed.

a time when market diversification in response to the joint impact of Brexit and Covid-19 is strategically important. “This is the biggest sustained investment we’ve made in dairy, and meat across species in third country markets, and it’s the first EU funding of its kind for the dairy sector,” she said.

Well done, boys: the winners of the Berkeley Boys Basketball Thomastown U-12 and U-14 shooting competition held over the in the new outdoor community basketball and tennis court amenity in Thomastown. From left, are Dara Wilson (3rd U-12s), Ross Wilson (3rd U-14), Shane Forristal (2nd U-14), John Dalton (2nd u-12), Adam Stewart(1st U-14) , ND Fionn Ryan 1st U-12)

Ditch the sofa and take the Duathlon challenge! THE Kilkenny Triathlon Club wants you to ditch the sofa and jump into the New Year by taking on the Couch to Duathlon challenge! While everyone has those resolutions of wanting to get fitter after January 1, the county’s only triathlon club wants to make those aspirations become a reality. No previous experience is necessary - all you need is a bike and a pair of runners! “The Couch to Duathlon is a way for people to combine improving their fitness and trying a new sport,” said club officer Howard Triggs. “By joining the club people can sign up for an eight-week programme and build towards completing our duathlon event - a 5km run, 20km cycle and 3km run - in April.” Starting in the first week of February, the Coach to

Duathlon programme will focus on two disciplines of triathlon, cycling and running. Featuring structured training running plans with coach James Ledingham, club cycles and elements of brick and transition training, it has been designed to bring people through eight weeks of training and become familiar with the sport while preparing for the Kilkenny Duathlon. The first big event in the local club’s season, the 2022 KTC Duathlon will be held on Sunday, April 3. Participants will take on a 5km run through the Castle Park grounds, then head out on a 20km cycle which brings the field out the Waterford Road and back to Kilkenny via Bennettsbridge, before finishing up with a second, shorter 3km run in the Castle Park.

IRISH people are gearing up to travel over the Christmas holidays, according to data from Finder. The Travel Index revealed that one in three Irish people plan to travel over December, January, February. This is an increase from last month when just 22% of people said they would be open to travelling short-term. International travel is particularly popular, with 22% of people planning to travel abroad over the coming three months, up from 12% last month. Meanwhile, domestic travel is up only slightly, with 15% of people planning to travel, up from 14% last month. Finder Head of Consumer Insights, Graham Cooke says travel plans are set to peak in December. “Travel plans for both domestic and international travel are set to peak in December, before tapering off in the first few months of 2022. 23% of Irish adults plan to travel over the month of December, while just under 10% of people plan to travel in either January or February,” Mr Cooke said. “It’s not surprising to see a spike in travel around this time, with people hoping to see their family and friends for the holiday celebrations,” he said. Finder’s Travel Index is an ongoing survey, which has so far gathered responses from more than 220,000 people globally.

Green light for five new sites The local authority has approved plans for five new residential sites in south Kilkenny. Meadowcourt Homes Ltd has been given permission to proceed with plans for the site developmental works at The Beeches, Mount Sion, Ballyrobin in Ferrybank. The developer also got the go ahead to build a detached, two storey house on each of the five sites and all “associated site development works, including the provision of an entrance from Mount Sion Road”.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Christmas Week in Kilkenny

AS the main day approaches, Yulefest Kilkenny have got something special in store. Catch up with friends and family and find that perfect gift at the covid-safe outdoor events all throughout Christmas week. Come and celebrate Christmas in Kilkenny.

The week in Kilkenny begins with a bang with a fireworks display over the iconic Kilkenny Castle on Sunday the 19th of December, a joint initiative between Yulefest and the OPW. Tickets must be pre-booked and the €3 entry fee is donated entirely to Amber Women’s Refuge.

Continuing on from the weekend will be five final days of Kilkenny’s Christmas Market which will be open on Sunday 19th and Thursday 23rd from 10am to 6pm and from12-8pm on Monday 20th, Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd as the parade will become a jazz-

lovers heaven each evening with sounds from some of Ireland’s most acclaimed musicians, as the long standing ‘Sofa Sessions’ moves from its home in Billy Byrne’s to the Bandstand to get us all into the Christmas spirit. Cathaoirleach Cllr Fidelis Doherty commented “Yule-

fest, which is programmed, marketed and delivered by Kilkenny County Council has been a great success so far and I’m really looking forward to Christmas week where I will shop local at our delightful market and support our local artisans and craftsmen and women

who are nestled in beautiful wooden huts and santa tents on the Parade. We are all conscious of the need to keep our business local and there’s plenty of christmas gift options and even more options of treats for yourself.’ On Wednesday 22nd the city will be a buzz again with the last Yulefest Movie Night showing Cartoon Saloon’s Oscar nominated Wolfwalkers. Plus, the last DJ Beats in the Watergate Pocket Park on Parliament Street. If you’ve missed this event so far, now is the time. Have a festive catch-up with friends, grab something from the Parliament eateries and enjoy great tunes from the Se7en Inch Collective. There are plenty of activities for children too with Santa’s Woodland Reindeer Trail at Woodstock, the Christmas Garden at Butler House, the Elf Village at Castlecomer Discovery Park, plus lots more! Mayor Andrew McGuinness said “There has been such a buzz around the city and after the year we’ve had it’s great to see. Everyone has really embraced the festive spirit. There is such a range of activities especially for the children. We’re looking forward to exploring some more of them this week.” Get that festive feeling in Kilkenny this Christmas week! Check out www. yulefestkilkenny.ie for the full programme.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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When Vicky met Charlie... tea but no talk of sympathy CERVICAL smear campaigner Vicky Phelan recently met RTE’s Charlie Bird, and the encounter turned out to be every bit as amazing and as profound as the country knew it was going to be. “It was really, really beautiful,” said the broadcast journalist of their meeting. “It’s as if we had been friends all our lives.”

And he said that while he has spoken recently of how his recent motor neurone diagnosis has made him cry every day, “the one place I didn’t cry was meeting Vicky. It was the opposite ... she made me laugh,” said the now retired journalist. “Her resilience is amazing and she is fantastic. We joked ... it

wasn’t all doom and gloom. She has a broad smile,” he said. After getting in touch via Twitter in the wake of comments made by Vicky on her end-of-life plans, the veteran RTÉ broadcaster and his wife Claire made the journey from their home in Wicklow to visit the Kilkenny-born cervical

cancer campaigner at her home in Limerick. They stayed chatting for an hour and a half over tea and scones freshly baked by Vicky’s neighbour. “The joke is that she said when she saw me on TV the other night I had big eyes just like her. She said ‘you and I have the

same eyes’,” Charlie laughed. He said their meeting was “the opposite of emotionally draining. It was like meeting someone I’ve known all my life and she said ‘Charlie, we are now friends and we will keep in contact’,” he said. “It was re-energising. It was the best hour and a half of

meeting anyone in years.” Vicky and Charlie have now made plans to climb Croagh Patrick together in the spring to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Association and Pieta House, “probably in March”, with Vicky promising: “Charlie, assuming I’m still where I am, I will climb Croagh Patrick...”

Pay rises of 4.5% sought for private sector PAY rises up to 4.5% should be sought for private sector workers next year, according to guidance issued by trade union leaders. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions’ Private Sector Committee has advised that wage demands ranging from 2.5% to 4.5% are lodged with employers in its guidance on pay negotiations in 2022. In a bulletin, it said inflationary pressures had been building in recent months. “It is imperative that workers share fairly in the gains from economic recovery,” it said. The main factors contributing to inflation were transport costs, which make a 39% contribution that is mainly reflected in higher diesel and petrol prices. Housing and home energy costs made up 36%, due chiefly to higher rents and the cost of home heating and electricity, while 12% was due to restaurant and hotel prices. “Overall, we can see that the bounce-back in energy costs is the main contributor to inflation,” it said. The committee said the eco-

nomic recovery is “picking up steam” and rapid economic growth is likely in 2022. It said retail sales rose 9% between October 2019 and the same month this year and noted projections that personal consumption would grow strongly as “pentup demand increases and household savings unwind”. However, it said this strong projection assumed minimal economic disruption from Covid-related lockdowns. It said PUP recipients fell below 55,000 by the end of October, but could rise in December to January due to the impact of restrictions. It also said the number of recipients should decline again after that. The bulletin noted there was evidence of labour shortages in areas like driving, software and construction and vacancy rates are at their highest recorded levels since at least 2008. It said wages would need to grow by more than 2% next year to keep pace with the cost of living, with only increases beyond this representing “real” wage increases.

Your Christmas carols The Kilkenny Youth Orchestra is inviting singers to join it this Saturday, 18th, to celebrate Christmas. Says conductor Philip Edmondson: “Come and sing

all your favourites with us in St. Mary’s Cathedral.” The singing starts at 3.30, and there will be a retiring collection for The Good Shepherd Centre.

Targeting luxury travel business for Kilkenny A TOTAL of 23 tourism businesses from Ireland – including Mount Juliet Estate – joined Tourism Ireland in Cannes for the annual International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM). ILTM is an invitation-only event for the global luxury travel industry – attracting more than 1,800 influential travel agents and decisionmakers who design unique, luxury travel itineraries for their high net-worth international clients, from 80 different countries. Luxury travel editors and journalists from international publications are also in attendance.

The four-day event – which took place at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes – involved a programme of bespoke oneto-one appointments and networking sessions and is an excellent opportunity for the tourism businesses from Ireland to meet, and do business with, the influential travel agents and journalists. Louise Finnegan, Tourism Ireland’s Head of Business Partnership, said: “Our participation at this year’s ILTM in Cannes is an excellent platform to showcase the superb luxury tourism offering around Ireland – from our

boutique hotels, castles and luxury resorts, to our rich culture and heritage; and not forgetting our world-class golf and our superb culinary scene.” * Pictured above: John Costelloe, The K Club; Sheila King, Sheen Falls Lodge; Yvonne Donohue, The Shelbourne; Deirdre Cullina, The Merrion; Marie Chawke, Dromoland Castle; Steve Fenton, MHL Hotel Collection; Gillian Costelloe, By Appointment DMC; Crothúr Murphy, Custom Ireland; Richard Byrne-Afoullouss, Adams & Butler; Paula Carroll, Ashford Castle;

Siobhán Naughton, Tourism Ireland; Siobhán O’Sullivan, Mount Juliet Estate; Ciara Hanley, Ireland’s Blue Book; David Cronin, Killarney Hotels; Paula Ward, Paula Ward’s Ireland; Olivia Frawley, Tourism Ireland; Liz Godfrey, Adare Manor; Tanya Dawson, Luxurious Ireland; Leigh Heggarty, Galgorm; Eoin McGrath, Hastings Hotels; Carol Hinch, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel; Michelle Blake, Dylan Hotel; Roisin Wallace, Original Irish Hotels; Natasha Johnston, Tourism Ireland; and Emer Mortell, Dream Escape, at ILTM in Cannes

Poultry growers ‘caught in cost-price squeeze’ IFA Poultry Chairman Andy Boylan has said poultry growers are caught in a classic cost-price squeeze that has to be addressed urgently. Family farms that produce Bord Bia Quality Assured chicken and eggs have seen

their costs of production increase at an unprecedented rate in the past year. European Commission data shows that the price of chicken has remained stagnant since 2017, while farm costs such as labour, elec-

tricity, water, insurance, and maintenance are up over 60% on this time last year. Costs such as detergents, disinfectants, washing and bedding material are also up over 20% on this time last year for broiler farmers.

“Gas prices have soared. The cost per unit has increased by almost 40% over the past 18 months on my farm. The cost of energy, labour and animal feed have all seen inflation not witnessed by the sector in

half a generation. Irish inflation shot to a 14-year high in October, which has had a damaging effect on the sector,” he said. Vice Chairman of the Poultry Committee Brendan Soden said farmers were

very concerned about their future. Egg producers conducted a survey of members, asking them if they would recommend future generations continue to produce eggs. Up to 80% of them answered in the negative.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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A call to remember the brave women who fought in The Gr Over 3,000 from Kilkenny served and almost 900 died

The Kilkenny train station, named in honour of Thomas Mac Donagh, experienced sadness in the coming and going of young men and women to partake in the war

BY GERRY CODY PHOTOS: CLAIRE STACK, COBH ANIMATION TEAM.

Physically marked, many were minus limbs, many blinded and even those physically unmarked carried mental scars that would remain with them always

n Kilkenny’s MacDonagh railway station, there is a memorial to the 3,271 men and women from County Kilkenny known to have served in World War 1. Over eight hundred of these soldiers died during the conflict. These numbers include representatives

from almost every parish in County Kilkenny. Since the memorial was erected in 2018, the Great War Memorial committee, through diligent research, has unearthed further names of local people who fought in the war. The Kilkenny Observer met two leading members of the Committee – Donal Croghan and John Joe Cullen for an update. According to Donal, thirty new names have been forwarded as people from Kilkenny who took part in the war but who are not listed on the memorial. John Joe took up the story. “We always knew that we didn’t have the full list of people and it would have been a miracle if such was the case. Having discovered the extra thirty names, we feel honour bound to include them on the

Those that fought didn’t just sacrifice their life - they sacrificed their future

memorial.” However, both Donal and John Joe acknowledge that raising sufficient funds for the project is a major undertaking. The committee is asking the people of Kilkenny to ‘Adopt a Soldier.’ This will allow for that soldier’s name, rank and his or her area of residence to be engraved on the monument. Both men agree that

the people of Kilkenny have been very generous in supporting the War Memorial projects and they are hopeful that their innovative project will see this munificence continue. We reflect on Kilkenny’s connection to The Great War to remind ourselves of the bravery, heroism and sacrifice of fondly remembered family and friends, whose actions still resonate.

NO DENYING THE HARDSHIP AND ANGUISH In September 1918, American troops led the allied offensive to the north west of Verdun. Early in October the British broke through the German front line. By November, an armistice had brought fighting to an end. On November 9, the Kaiser abdicated, and at 5.a.m on November 11Germany signed the terms of

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men and eat War The Bockety World of Henry & Bucket by Sarah Argent Paul Curley and John Currivan

With the armistice in 1918 the train station once more became a hub of military activity as those who survived the awful terrors returned to the sanctuary of home

There is no denying the anguish and hardship that was experienced because of this period in history

(1854/1856), The Anglo Boer War 1899/1902 and The Great War 1914/1918. Many thousands of soldiers, sailors, airmen, nurses and chaplains, departed from this station to join in the great uncertainty of war. TRAVELLING TO THE GREAT UNKNOWN During The Great War over three thousand men and women from Kilkenny city and county enlisted and filtered through the railway station to the great unknown. The young recruits going to war were filled with bravado, enthusiasm and excitement. At that time this small station, comprising of four lines, became a bustling mass of heaving humanity. Bands played, flags waved as family and friends gathered. A cacophony of chaotic noise reverberated. But in the midst of the revelry, parents, siblings and sweethearts were in a quandary. Aware that this could be the last time they would ever see their loved ones, tears mingled with the parting hugs and kisses. For many there would not be a return journey. These young men and women were leaving to fight in foreign places with strange sounding names. Names, that families at home, located on maps and this knowledge helped to maintain a sense of unity. The frequent use of these place names helped them become part of family life. Today, over a hundred years since the cessation of the great conflict, these names remain part of

The Great War Memorial at The Peace Park in Kilkenny city

Kilkenny’s history. Trailing tales of darkness and bringing memories of past generations they whisper to us across the silent years, Le Pilly, Ypres, Flanders Fields, The Somme, The Dardanelles. With the armistice in 1918 the train station once more became a hub of military activity as those who survived the awful terrors returned to seek the sanctuary of home. Though the soldiers returned to the joyous welcoming arms of families it was not always an occasion of celebration. Often waiting families were devastated to see their loved ones dramatically changed. The ebullient young soldiers were now morose world-weary veterans. MENTAL AND PHYSICAL SCARS WOULD LAST A LIFETIME Some of those returning were unrecognizable even to waiting family members. Many were physically disfigured, some minus limbs, others blind. Even

those physically unmarked carried mental scars that would remain with them always. Perhaps the most poignant scene enacted at Kilkenny railway station saw twenty- five returning soldiers, all in their twenties, each dressed in new suits and carrying cardboard suitcases. These men were marched under guard to the ‘lunatic asylum’. All were suffering from shellshock. None of them would ever leave the asylum alive. The human spirit is resilient and families learned to cope, the country learned to cope and indeed the world learned to cope. For despite the human tragedy and the horrendous cost, peace had come to a devasted world. Though the sacrifices were colossal the world was grateful and hopeful. The future would be a better place and mankind would never have to witness such barbarity again. Thankfully, this great conflict was ‘the war to end all wars.’

WESTON’S WORDS SEEM APT The words of Falklands War veteran Simon Weston seem apt “people must keep the legacy of the First World War alive and remember those that fought didn’t just sacrifice their life - they sacrificed their future” If you wish to support this remembrance endeavour please make your donations payable to: The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Group. Bank of Ireland, Parliament St, Kilkenny, Ireland. Bank account: IBAN IE29BOF190606422546979 BIC BOFIIE2D PayPal Donations may also be posted to, or dropped into: The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee, 48 John Street Upper, Kilkenny. *FÓGRA: Photos are from 2018, so title references to people from Council and Military were apt at that time.

Re-enactment members who attended the remembrance day at MacDonagh Railway station in 2018

surrender. Six hours later, at 11a.m, the terms came into effect. The Great War, or the First World War as it had become by then, ended at 11a.m on the 11th day of the eleventh month, 1918. There was great rejoicing worldwide with the announcement that hostilities had ceased. However, there is no denying the anguish and hardship experienced because of this turbulent

period in world history. Kilkenny shared in the desolation and the grief. Down the years, the Kilkenny train station, later named in honour of Thomas MacDonagh, experienced much sadness and heartbreak as young men and women departed to fight on foreign fields. The train station was used extensively to transport troops to various conflicts: The Crimean war

Major General Kieran Brennan of the Irish Defence forces pictured with Cllr. Eamon Aylward, Cathaoirleach Kilkenny County Council ( 2018) at the Commemoration of the Great War memorial at MacDonagh Railway

Donal Croghan,( left ) and John Joe Cullen( right) of the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee pictured with Major Brian Duffy ( retired)at MacDonagh railway station

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Much More Than Words THIS WEEK, in our look at the recently published book of poetry and prose by The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, we feature the work of Sean Kenny, Dominic Kelly and Emily Kelly . Thanks to T.A.S.K, j.bs photography, and Dan Ryan for photos and art.

If ever a book deserved the award for ‘The Perfect Title’ surely that accolade must go to a new compilation of poetry Much More Than Words. Indeed its very title describes comprehensively the diversity of the treasures to be discovered within its covers. This volume of carefully crafted poems, interspersed with prose and enhanced with well-chosen

Sean Kenny

images, is the second collection produced by The Involvement Centre Kilkenny and the first in a joint venture with The Recovery College. The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to promote the work of The Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, and so, will publish a selection of their work over the coming months.

Dominic Kelly

‘Much More Than Words’ can be purchased at the following Kilkenny outlets: Bargain Books, The Butterslip Khans Bookshop, James’ Street & The Book Centre, High Street. Price: €10

Emily Kelly

When I am Old

The Phoenix

Anxiety

When I am old I’ll sit and watch the grass grow And listen to the leaves blow And count dead years On crippled fingers And daydream dead dreams again And make images out of dreams And talk and laugh and play with them When I am old. When I am old When my back’s bent like a bow And arms like half sawn Boughs hang low And my feet are made of lead With legs of straw. When I but nod and wink my way Through all the dream filled days And never more may wander Proudly free, mid hill and sky. That seeking I might chance to see God’s handiwork, in Some twisted elderberry tree, or trace His foot-print sunk Into a stony pass. When I am old I’ll know the bone in all things Man needs knowing From the maker to the breaker Everyman that struggles From the belly of a woman Is made alive to puzzle Out God’s plan.

My tree of desire I breathe your perfume, you are my air Sweetness pours from your branches Sweet fruits doth bear Calling softly on the breeze A voice that cradles my anvil Rapture grasps me in your presence Ocular beauty filling my field Lambent flame that warms my blood Infernal smile that captivates Nomadic limbs of spiderlegs Extend full flight with elegance Harpful music in your song A sound that levitates my mood Novel honesty in your thoughts Like a new day dawning Object of desire, Ocean of love Name that flows so easily from my lips Therapeutic trusting hands Healing touch, as magic wand’s Aura protects your earthly form Nymph of spirit and goodwill Knead my fears away Slow my beating heart

It’s dark. Black dark. The absence has manifested as a swollen heart so I know I’m here. I reach out. The cloth is rough. No weave to offer hope but it is cloth. Black cloth. My heart beats. Thud! A spinning reel of memories flashes a light that allows me to keep looking. I fumble with the lining, running my hands frantically along to find a seam.

When I am old My young face will have grown A wrinkled flesh The glad will be a sad smile Ear to ear A white beard I will set Against the north wind Then my weary eyes won’t sin to see A flash of lace from Some feminine place. The passions then in me Will be outdated And all the while my heart runs on Like a mad-fast watch To its winding hour To beat its last in this clay tower When I am old. When I am old I’ll treat death with much respect And call him by his Christian Name of peace My soul and body I’ll bleach well And wear white linen next The skin For fear he might drop in To measure me dead accurately Against my bag of sins. Sean Kenny

Dominic Kelly

None. I remember the tortoise. I remember the story of the tortoise. I remember the night I was told the story of the tortoise. The yellow walls. The blue bedspread. The tidy room and his voice telling me the story of the tortoise. Slow. Calm. This cloth is supporting my weight. It is preventing a fall. I release it from my anxious fist. It remains against my palm. I pat it like a stray. In return it offers me a pinhole. Emily Kelly

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Christmas wreath display adds extra beauty to stunning Butler House Garden

Agnes Kennedy and Kathleen Phelan standing in front of the ‘Newpark Close Nifty Fifties Club’ wreath on display at The Butler House Gardens

THERE is a very special addition to the Christmas Garden at Butler House this year. Butler House is the Dower House of Kilkenny Castle and has always been associated with the Butler Family, Dukes and Earls of Ormonde who resided at Kilkenny Castle for 500 years. 18TH CENTURY HOUSE The house was home to Lady Eleanor Butler who lived here after the death of her husband Walter in 1783. Lady Eleanor Butler was the mother of John, the 17th Earl of Ormonde and her daughter, also Eleanor, was one of the famous “Ladies of Langollen”. Kilkenny Design, the state design agency, restored Butler House in 1972. The decor and furnishings reflect a certain 1970s Art Deco style, which because of the muted colours and natural fabrics used, proved sympathetic to the original features of the house. In 1989, the Kilkenny Civic Trust acquired both Butler House and the Castle Stables. The house was then opened to the public .

RTE’S Ann Cassin pictured with Siobhán O’Brien, Community Education Facilitator with ETB

Ber Brophy and Kathleen Igbinedion at Butler House gardens on Sunday , where their wreath was on display

STEEPED IN HIS TORY Butler House and Garden is steeped in history and with a view of the stunning Kilkenny Castle, the secluded walled gardens provide a beautiful backdrop across all seasons, particularly during the Spring / Summer when the garden is in full bloom. CHRISTMAS WREATH PROJECT In recent years, it has become the ‘go to place’ in the city to get that extra Christmas buzz, where you get to meet Santa and his elves, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee , and all in a very picturesque surrounding . This year a beautiful display of Christmas Wreaths made by local Community Groups as part of a project the Kilkenny Civic. Trust It was a project undertaken with Kilkenny and Carlow ETB. THE IDEA FOR THIS PROJECT Siobhan O’Brien, the Com-

The Nifty Fifties’ wreath is made entirely of recycled material

munity Education Facilitator at Kilkenny and Carlow ETB worked closely with Anthony Drohan, Facilities Manager at the Kilkenny Civic Trust and a network of Tutors on this fantastic project. The offer of doing a wreath was suggested to the many groups who work annually with Community Education. The response was fabulous with 17 groups and with a total of 20 wreaths being created. There was no brief and design was left to the group themselves. The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper happened to be strolling the grounds on Sunday last when we came across the ‘Newpark Close Nifty Fifties Club’ who were delighted to participate

in the Christmas wreath project currently on display. There are a total of twenty wreaths on display, and all created by local community groups. ‘The Nifty Fifties’ wreath is made entirely of recycled material. The centre piece has flowers made from old tights. There are roses made from offcuts of batik fabric. Bows and other flowers are made from scraps of hessian and felt. All are stapled onto a background of ivy that was retrieved from old projects made by the club in the past. It was a club effort and everyone came up with their own unique ideas. *The Christmas Wreath project will feature on RTE’S Nationwide Friday 17th. *’The Nifty Fifties Club’ meet at Newpark family Resorce Centre. *’The Nifty Fifties Club’ meet at Newpark family Resorce Centre.

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Advertorial “We just want to make sure that everyone, whatever their background, gets access to music tuition.” Bono, U2 – Music Generation philanthropic funder

”

Music for all our ears The vision that inspires Music Generation Kilkenny is the same today as when Music Generation was established almost ten years ago – to break down the barriers that may otherwise prevent children and young people from experiencing the pure joy of making music. This year alone, Music Generation Kilkenny gave that opportunity to 6,000 children and young people across the city and county. Over the following pages, the Kilkenny Observer shines a spotlight on the aims and accomplishments of this performance-based music programme headed up by Kilkenny’s own international Soprano, Sinéad Blanchfield… >> Contact: e: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie | m: 087 1765493

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Affordable music tuition – where you live Music Generation Kilkenny is part of Ireland’s national music education programme, initiated by Music Network and co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds, the Department of Education and Skills and Local Music Education Partnerships. The programme aims to transform the lives of children and young people ages 0-18 by creating access to high quality, affordable music tuition in their localities. Nationally, the programme creates more than 42,500 opportunities each year for children and young people to take part in high-quality, subsidised performance music education in all musical genres and styles – from trad to jazz, rock, pop and hip-hop, samba drumming, brass band, choral and orchestral initiatives, composers’ clubs and much more. Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) leads the programme locally in partnership with Kilkenny County Council. For more information visit: musicgeneration.ie

A role model for our musical youth Sinéad Blanchfield is the Music Generation Development Officer and manages the overall development and implementation of the Music Generation Kilkenny programme across the county. An international Soprano, Sinead is Kilkenny-born and feels privileged to be in a position to give back to her city and county. “When I was growing up in Kilkenny, music helped shape and form me as a person,” said Sinead. “It grew my confidence as a young person, not just as a musician. I want to give that same opportunity to as many of our young people as possible.”

Sinéad Blanchfield Music Development Officer, Music Generation Kilkenny E: sinead.blanchfield@ kilkennycarlowetb.ie

Breaking down barriers one tune at a time Music Generation Kilkenny aims to sweep away the obstacles that often block our young people’s access to music tuition. “Music is a universal language; it overrides divides, barriers and social norms,” said Sinéad Blanchfield, Music Development Officer, Music Generation Kilkenny. “Performing music together gives our children and young people a vitally important opportunity to experience inclusion, creativity, diversity and empowerment through music. It helps them build their confidence and develop who they are as individuals.” Sinead spearheads Music Generation Kilkenny, a partnership programme whose mission since 2019 has been to create inspiring musical experiences for children and young people across our city and county. The aim is to help transform their lives by giving them opportunities to create, play and perform music in their communities and on their terms. So far, this year alone, 6,000 school children have tuned in to that mission by taking part in Music Generation Kilkenny programmes across 23 primary schools, after-school music hubs, workshops, secondary schools, SEN settings, camps, taster days and festivals. “We want to give access to singing or playing a musical instrument to every child in County Kilkenny. That is the goal,” said Sinead. “And we are doing this by offering high quality, performance-based music education across a wide range of genres and styles. Instrument bank “We try to capture every child, and

we underpin that by resourcing the programme through our instrument bank. The children can now rent an instrument from us at a very low rate. It’s another encouragement for children to get involved because they don’t have the prohibitive cost of buying an instrument. “The music scene in Kilkenny is incredible. It’s so vibrant in terms of its cultural and musical offerings. There are two music schools in the city, and much private tuition is going on in the city and county. We’re trying to offer an alternative to this traditional method of music education, a more performancebased approach. “We’re all about getting children involved in group tuition, having a collaborative experience, and working with their peers. To makes this accessible to them we form ensembles, bands and offer performance opportunities for children across a spectrum of genres and styles such as trad, rock and pop, fusion and classical. We give them access to a vast range of instruments from strings, vocal, ukulele, trad instruments and also provide song writing and sound production coaching.” Professional musicians Coming from a performance background herself, Sinéad is ideally qualified to lead this multifaceted programme. She leads the design, development, implementation and management of all the Music Generation Kilkenny programmes delivered by her team of 22 musician educators. “My team is just amazing,” said Sinéad. “They

are wonderful, professional musicians who all live in Kilkenny.” Currently, Music Generation Kilkenny runs programmes in 23 primary schools across five strands: vocal, ukulele, string and percussion, along with a Music Makers programme aimed at Junior Infants to Second Class pupils. “We also have three after-school music hubs,” added Sinead. “Rock and Pop in partnership with Foróige, every Thursday at The Drum, MacDonagh Junction; Monday Trad Hub in Castlecomer again in partnership with Foróige - and a blended, online Uilleann Pipe Hub on Tuesdays.” These are their core programmes, but there have been many more initiatives such as community programmes, special education sessions, a pilot TY programme, camps and workshops. Workshops this year have included: a drumming workshop with Youth Reach, a rhythm workshop - Crash Bang and Wallop; songwriting and sound production workshops in partnership with Foróige; a vocal online workshop called Virtual Voices and toddler music workshops. A summer Trad Camp in partnership with Music Generation Tipperary culminated with a final performance in Ballykeefe Amphitheatre. Christmas song The summer songwriting and sound production camp in 2020 resulted in the release of a lockdown-themed Christmas song called ‘Feel the Victory’. Written, performed and recorded by Music Generation Kilkenny participants,

the song got lots of radio play nationally and in the US when featured in The Ireland Funds’ Winter Galas. It’s a very professional production with heartfelt lyrics. Watch and listen to it on the Music Generation Kilkenny YouTube channel. Music Generation Kilkenny has also been involved in city events such as the St Patrick’s Day virtual parade. “We were invited to perform ‘virtually’, so we created a video of our 12 young Uillean Pipers playing ‘Uillean Pipe Dreams’.” On Kilkenny Day in October, they held a taster session where young children could come and try out an instrument that they might never have tried before. Sinéad also created an online Wellbeing programme. “I designed that specifically in response to the pandemic,” she explained. “There were so many young children at home being homeschooled and missing out on the creative aspect of their education that comes from music and dance. So I created a pilot programme for primary schools during the lockdown. When children returned to school, we streamed it to the classroom whiteboards. We had 2,400 children take part in that, which was terrific. “The Wellbeing programme also helped build up the morale of our Musician Educators. Live music performances had come to a standstill, so this programme pulled in the talent and skillsets of these amazing musicians, harnessing it to deliver a wonderful programme for children.” What’s very important for Music Generation Kilkenny is the building of partnerships. “Over the past few years, I have built partnerships with school principals, managers in youth settings, the county library service with Kilkenny Childcare Committee, Kilkenny Education Centre, Foróige and Na Píobairí Uilleann. Partnerships are key in terms of how we deliver our programmes.”

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In the Hub of it

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Opportunity for creativity is vital for our youth’s wellbeing, and it shouldn’t stop when the bell rings at the end of the school day. Music Generation Kilkenny runs after-school music hubs for young people who want to learn an instrument or explore their singing skills in a group setting. There are three currently (see below), with plans to expand into more locations next year: Creative Music Space An after-school rock and pop music hub run in partnership with Foróige at the DRUM, MacDonagh Shopping Centre on Thursdays. Music Generation Kilkenny small group lessons in ukulele, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drums and singing.

What people are saying Primary School Principal

Musician Educator Carl Rochford and young violinist Martyna, Kilkenny Day, October 2021. Photo: Freddie Greenall

Trad Hub Meets every Monday after school in Castlecomer. It provides an opportunity for young traditional players of primary school age to get involved in fun weekly lessons and performance opportunities. Instruments include fiddle, bodhrán, concertina, whistle, flute and banjo. Uilleann Pipe Hub A blended mix of online and in-person tuition every Tuesday. The Hub’s 12 dedicated young Uilleann Pipers performed ‘Uilleann Pipe Dreams’ as part of this years’ St. Patrick’s Day virtual parade. Check out the Music Generation Kilkenny YouTube channel to hear their captivating performance. What next? “We’re ongoing all the time. The core programmes will continue and expand to reach children and young people in more locations. We’ll be holding another Trad Camp next summer, and workshops will continue throughout the year. And we are linking with festivals to deliver some programmes. “We will also develop the TY programme to more schools, delivering songwriting, music recording and sound production coaching by our musician educators to more children.” The overarching goal for Music Generation Kilkenny is to meet children where they are. “We take the programme to their locality instead of children having to come into Kilkenny for lessons, which is often a barrier for some parents. We’re great about breaking down those barriers to get to where the children are. “I grew up in Kilkenny; that’s where my development as a young singer started. I had great opportunities, and my parents were very supportive. But if Music Generation had existed back then, I would have loved to use the opportunity to sign up and try every single instrument! “I know the immense joy and happiness that music gave me as a young person. It helped shape and form me and grew my confidence as a young person - not just as a musician but as an individual.” In conclusion, Sinead said, “I’m very passionate about nurturing young talent, and I’m very proud to be from County Kilkenny, so my role as Music Development Officer for Music Generation Kilkenny gives me the perfect opportunity; to give back.” If you want to find out more about Music Generation Kilkenny, its programmes, workshops etc., get in touch by email: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie, by Facebook message, or by phone: 087 1765493

Enjoy a Yulefest of talent

“Muckalee School is very proud of our association with Music Generation Kilkenny. When Sinéad first called and offered professional performance music to the children in 2nd, 3rd and 4th classes, we jumped at the chance and haven’t looked back since. Through pandemics and lockdowns, storms and snow, we have loved having Barbara Kelly, our Music Generation Educator, visit us every week (mostly in-person, sometimes virtually) and share in her enthusiasm for all things music. “The children have benefitted from their lessons so much over the years, both in terms of learning and enjoyment. Our pupils are much better off thanks to our involvement with Sinéad and Music Generation Kilkenny; as the late, great Levon Helm said, ‘If you pour some music on whatever’s wrong, it’ll sure help out’. “A massive thanks from all of us in Muckalee to Music Generation Kilkenny for all their help!” Kevin Cummins, Principal St. Brendan’s National School, Muckalee, Co. Kilkenny

Young musicians

Musician Educator Brendan Hickey taking young guitarist Djorge through his paces. Photo: Freddie Greenall

Young singers taking part in the ‘June Jammers’ summer event, 2021. Photo: Freddie Greenall

“It’s nice learning a new instrument really quickly and it’s good to get into something different. It’s really enjoyable and we’d now like to learn more violin and other music, outside of school. “Carl is a great teacher; he really helps us to get it right. You feel like you’re playing in a proper orchestra each week and you have the confidence to perform in front of others.” Maeve and Mia, 5th Class, Scoil Naomh Fiachra, Clontubrid, Co. Kilkenny.

Musician Educator

“Working with Music Generation Kilkenny has really helped me broaden my skillset, both as a musician and as an educator. From Music Production and Drums in Kilkenny City to Percussion and Song Writing in rural Kilkenny schools and in SEN settings, there are so many diverse and inclusive programmes on offer all over the county. “I have also become a Lead Musician Educator, which has allowed me to lead the Musician Educator team in the delivery of some programmes. With so many gigging musicians having lost much of their regular income, this is a real lifeline for many in the current climate.”

Young people from Music Generation Kilkenny’s Creative Music Space Hub will perform at Yulefest on Sunday, December 19th, from 12 to 1 pm in Kilkenny’s Parade Bandstand. “I’m setting up the house band with my professional musicians, so this will be a very special experience for the children – and the audience! It will be the first time ever performing in public for some, so it would be lovely to have as big a crowd as possible pop by and lend them support,” said Sinéad.

Mark Colbert, Lead Musician Educator, Music Generation Kilkenny.

Partner

RTE Nationwide • Watch RTE Nationwide tonight (Friday), at 7pm, to catch a performance of ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ by some of the younger Music Generation Kilkenny musicians.

“We are delighted with the progress Music Generation Kilkenny has made in the past three years under Sinéad’s leadership. We couldn’t be prouder of the achievements of our children and young people in the county and everything Music Generation Kilkenny has achieved to date. “Music Generation has opened the door to untold musical possibilities for children and young people in Ireland and we are thrilled that those opportunities will be available in Kilkenny for generations to come.” Meave and Mia are in their second year of receiving violin tuition with Carl Rochford in Scoil Naomh Fiachra Clontubrid.

Cllr Peter Cleere, Chairman of the Board, Kilkenny and Carlow ETB.

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Advertorial Musician Educator Mark Robinson and young musician, Arian. Photo: Freddie Greenall.

Thank you for the music!

Creating access to performance music education for children and young people across Kilkenny city and county since 2019.

Clodagh took part in the ‘June Jammers’ summer event 2021. Photo by Freddie Greenall

‘Crash, Bang & Wallop’ Rhythm workshops age 6-8, Easter 2021.

Mark Colbert Lead Musician with Music Generation Kilkenny. Photo: Freddie Greenall

Children trying the Bodhrán with Karena Dowling at the Kilkenny Day Taster Session, October 2021. Photo: Freddie Greenall

Conor enjoying the virtual ‘Crash, Bang & Wallop’ rhythm workshop during lockdown.

Young Drum Musician, Rachel taking part in the Kilkenny Music Generation programme. Photo: Freddie Greenall.

Musician Educators (L-R) Clare Kilkenny, Barbara Kelly, Féibhar Baldwin Wall. Photo: Vicky Comerford.

Music Generation Kilkenny musicians (L-R) Cathal, Katie, Clodagh, Laura, Charlotte and Enya during filming for the ‘Feel the Victory’ music video. Photo: Shane Hatton, Old Mill Pictures.

Contact: e: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie | m: 087 1765493

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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First across the line Paul Millea

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

News Community Group

Seniors enjoy being included in holiday activities THE holidays can be fun for older adults even if they have physical or cognitive limitations. It’s all about spending time together, feeling included, and enjoying the good company – whether in person or virtually. The activities you do together don’t have to be exciting to be special and meaningful. Simply being able to join in brings joy and help your older adults to enjoy the season. So, here at Twilight we have put our thinking hats on to see what can we do for Christmas together and activities for seniors that are perfect to enjoy with family and friends. Are you always having new ideas to make your holiday home look beautiful, unique and eye-catching? If your answer is ‘yes’, you must have forgotten the ornaments hung on the front door. A Christmas wreath is a lovely symbol of holiday. A cool and

unique Christmas wreath will bring jealousy to your neighbours. Want to be different? Why not make a simple and fun one by yourself at home? Maybe you have seen lots of DIY wreath ideas but they do not satisfy you. If you want more creative ideas, here is an idea put forward by our Twilight Youth inclusion group. Make one out of Wine Corks! yes, his parents do! Another showed us their attempt at a Santa front door wreath. Hmm a bit of senior help may have helped you on this idea, but it would be great fun and a way for us to interact with our grandchildren The handmade wreaths here will overthrow your brains, because you can never image that a Christmas wreath at the door is made by the whimsy materials such as candy canes, paper rolls, wine corks and clothespins. Have a gift wrap party –

don’t worry if things aren’t perfectly wrapped, it’s the fun that counts! And it is amazing the repair work you can do

with a little bit of cellotape, tippex and of course your intergenerational imaginations. Get your older adult’s help

with holiday cards – writing, addressing, or sealing envelopes Ask for their opinions or

ideas while you’re shopping online for gifts But my favorite is just, prompt kids to ask about “the olden days” so they can learn about their grandparent’s youth. Ah yes, sitting with your grandson and granddaughter telling them about your Christmas. The big open fire, mug of tea and a pinch of ham sambo with the grandchildren’s hot cups. And how different Christmas is today then yesteryear. And what a difference.! Christmas started just a few days before the turkey dinner. The school closes, and you brought home the angel or star you made in school for the top of the Christmas tree, that had just gone up that day and not the end of November. Your present was the one thing and yes one present that you had waited and waited to get for the past six months or more. No central heating, the house was colder, and that only added to the Christmas feelings. Oh, the stories we could tell and maybe before the Christmas break, we will tell a few here too. If you the reader has a Christmas story you would like to share drops us a line to Twilight Community Group, 15A Hebron House , Hebron Business Park Kilkenny info(@)twilight.ie

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Feature

Up at the castle, young Finn is going to learn that Christmas is about much more than presents

Kilkenny writer Catherine Cronin is the third guest to submit her work in the Kilkenny Observer ‘Christmas short story series’. Enjoy.

BY CATHERINE CRONIN Do you know what the saddest thing is about being a ghost? It’s that you never get presents. Not for birthdays. Not for deathdays. Not even for Christmas! Young Finn thought about this a lot, especially on Christmas Eve. The last 134 Christmas Eves, in fact. And every year, after Christmas, he enviously watched children walk through his castle gates with enticing toys and gadgets. “You will come to realise, Finn”, Lady Butler said, “that there’s more to life, and death, than presents.” Finn was the castle’s youngest ghost. He often thought if he had to choose to haunt anywhere in the world, it would be this castle. He loved it here. He had the woods, ducks at the pond, the playground, and the great towers. This was especially true at Christmastime when the lights were hung, the trees decorated and, if they were lucky, snow fell. The only thing missing was Finn’s favourite tree, the purple beech. A decade previously, it was struck down in a storm. It was 247 old and, as strange as it sounds, Finn’s best friend. Finn climbed that tree every day of his life and death and could see

the whole park from the top. Finn still loved Christmas, even without his tree and presents. He excitedly organised Christmas parties, games, and, importantly, kept the peace among all the powerful dead in the castle. The other ghosts were always amused by his excitement and started calling him “Festive Finn”. He pretended to be annoyed by the nickname, but he secretly loved seeing the older ghosts glow with joy when they said it. Usually, the local living hosted a Christmas Eve concert in the castle’s Great Hall. It was always a thrilling time for Finn who would spend most of December planning where all the ghosts would float for the concert, promising everyone a great position on the ceiling beams for the big event. As usual, on this December 24th, all the living and all the dead took their places in the Great Hall. The concert was beautiful. Finn overheard Strongbow’s daughter remark to a Marquess that, “Festive Finn had excelled himself this year”. She was notoriously difficult to please and barely ever spoke to Finn. He was delighted. As the choir began the final tune of the evening, Finn could see the ghosts gently glow above the Hall. It almost felt like even the living were glowing too. There was a Christmas warmth in the air and Finn began to understand what Lady Butler was talking about. He wished he could hold on to this feeling - this memory

At certain times of the year, when there’s magic in the air and we all work together, we can ask the trees, like The purple beech tree to come back, just for a short time so that we might lean on them again.”( photo courtesy Frank Kavanagh)

- all year round. Then, out of the corner of his eye, Finn saw a little girl in the crowd happily using her magic glass gadget to capture the moment. That old feeling of envy weighed on his chest again. The living were so lucky. They could relive Christmas all year long through their wonderful presents. Not like Finn. When the concert was over, Finn was no longer feeling festive. He decided to go up to the high turret. He didn’t want his bad mood to ruin Christmas for everyone else. He was staring at the lights on the Parade when a delicate glow came upon the wall. It was Lady Butler. “Finn, could you come down to the front lawn, please?” Finn couldn’t believe one of the old ghosts had come so far up the castle to fetch him. This must be important. He followed her. They floated across the grass where the old wall had once been towards the other ghosts who had all

gathered. Finn recognised this spot. This was the site where his old friend, the purple beech, had once stood. Finn was a bit confused. Then, the greatest of the Earls, and the man who built the great stone castle, William Marshal spoke. “Thank you, young man, for another wonderful festive season. Now, Finn, we can’t give you presents like the living children get but we can give you something else. Take my hand, child.” The Earl had never spoken to Finn before, not really, so taking his hand seemed like a big leap in their relationship. But Finn did what he was told, and as he did, the other ghosts spread out in a circle each taking the hands of a fellow ghost on both sides. Soon, they had formed a circle which was closed when Lady Butler took Finn’s other hand. Finn looked around the circle. The ghosts all had their eyes closed and were humming a tune. The eeriest but most beautiful sound Finn had ever

heard. And, as their harmony grew, they glowed more and more. Finn realised he too was humming even though he was certain he’d never heard this tune before. He couldn’t help himself. He was part of this ethereal community. They were all glowing now, glowing as they never had before. Finn’s eyes were closed but he knew what was happening. After a few moments, Lady Butler whispered, “Finn - look.” Finn opened his eyes. There, standing in front of them, was the old purple beech. It was proud and tall and glowing purple. It had no storm damage. It was healthy and stunning. “How?”, Finn gasped. “Trees have the oldest souls of all”, said Lady Butler. “Many living family and friends have leaned on them. At certain times of the year, when there’s magic in the air and we all work together, we can ask the trees to come back, just for a short time so that we might lean on them

As the choir began the final tune of the evening, Finn could see the ghosts gently glow above the Hall. It almost felt like even the living were glowing too. Photo and art by Paul Kelly

again.” “Go to it, Finn”, said the Earl. Finn was in shock. He slowly walked to the tree, circled it, and began to climb. It had been a while, but he still knew where all the good branches were for safe footing. Of course, he could float up but climbing made him feel alive. From the top, he looked on to the castle. There was a warm glow from the windows as the living continued with the festivities inside. Then, he looked below. The ghosts of the earls, the ladies, the soldiers, the families, workers, and friends that had haunted this place for so long, were glowing and humming in the most magical way. Finn’s heart was so full. Christmas had never been so magical, Finn thought. To climb his favourite tree again was a magnificent present. But the greatest gift of all was what his fellow ghosts had done for him. And, just as these thoughts were occurring to Finn, it began to softly snow.

*Catherine Cronin is a writer, currently based in Switzerland. A Kilkenny native, Ireland is never far from her mind or her work. She is a former Loreto Secondary School student, and studied Humanities at Carlow College before gaining Masters degrees at NUI Galway and Mary Immaculate College, Limerick in the fields of Philosophy and Literature. She wrote and submitted her first play, “Håber Undone”, to Druid and was chosen to be part of their Druid Debuts rehearsed readings programme for 2021. Catherine’s second play, a one-woman piece called “Orphan Disease”, premiered in Zurich this past August. Catherine will be bringing this show to the Watergate Theatre on April 23rd, 2022.

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Food & Drink

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Christmas pudding Prep: 20 mins Cook: 8 hrs Plus 1 hour cooking on the day Serves: 8 A homemade Christmas pudding is easy to make, then it just needs time in the steamer to turn it into a glorious, rich, fruity dessert. A festive classic. Ingredients For the pudding • 50g blanched almonds • 2 large Bramley cooking apples • 200g box candied peel (in large pieces) or all citron if you can find it • 1 whole nutmeg (you’ll use three quarters of it) • 1kg raisins

• 140g plain flour • 100g soft fresh white breadcrumbs • 100g light muscovado sugar, crumbled if it looks lumpy • 3 large eggs • 2 tbsp brandy or cognac, plus extra to light the pudding • 250g packet butter, taken straight from the fridge For the brandy and ginger butter • 175g unsalted butter, softened • grated zest of half an orange • 5 tbsp icing sugar • 4 tbsp brandy or cognac • 2 pieces of stem ginger, finely chopped Method

STEP 1 Get everything for the pudding prepared. Chop the almonds coarsely. Peel, core and chop the cooking apples. Sharpen your knife and chop the candied peel. (You can chop the almonds and apples in a food processor, but the peel must be done by hand.) Grate three quarters of the nutmeg (sounds a lot but it’s correct). STEP 2 Mix the almonds, apples, candied peel, nutmeg, raisins, flour, breadcrumbs, light muscovado sugar, eggs and 2 tbsp brandy or cognac in a large bowl. STEP 3 Holding the butter in its

Christmas muffins Prep: 20 mins Cook: 25 mins - 30 mins Serves: 12 Make these zesty, spiced muffins ahead of Christmas Day, then begin the festivities by handing them out while everyone opens their gifts under the tree. Ingredients • 125g unsalted butter • 250g self-raising flour • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda • 200g golden caster sugar • 2 tsp cinnamon • ¼ nutmeg, freshly grated • 150g natural yogurt • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 2 medium eggs • 1 orange, zested and juiced • 150g chocolate (white, milk or dark), chopped • 50g dried cranberries • 50g icing sugar • 2 tbsp pearl sugar (optional)

Method STEP 1 Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line a 12-hole muffin tray with paper muffin cases. STEP 2 Melt the butter in the microwave or a small pan over a low heat, then set aside to cool for 10 mins. Meanwhile, mix the flour, bicarb, sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg in a large bowl with a pinch of salt. STEP 3 Add the yogurt, vanilla and eggs to the cooled butter and mix well. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients along with the orange zest, chocolate and dried cranberries. Mix well until there are no pockets of flour.

STEP 4 Divide the mixture evenly between the paper cases, then bake for 30 mins until risen and golden. Check they’re cooked by inserting a cocktail stick into the centre of one of the muffins (choose one in the centre of the tray). If any wet cake batter clings to the skewer, return to the oven for 5 mins. STEP 5 Remove the muffins from the oven and leave to cool in the tin for at least 10 mins. Meanwhile, mix the icing sugar with enough of the orange juice to make a loose icing. Brush the orange glaze over each muffin, then sprinkle with a little pearl sugar, if using. Leave to cool before eating. Will keep in an airtight container for up to five days, or frozen for up to two months.

wrapper, grate a quarter of it into the bowl, then stir everything together. Repeat until all the butter is grated, then stir for 3-4 mins – the mixture is ready when it subsides slightly after each stir. Ask the family to stir too, and get everyone to make a wish. STEP 4 Generously butter two 1.2 litre bowls and put a circle of baking parchment in the bottom of each. Pack in the pudding mixture. Cover with a double layer of baking parchment, pleating it to allow for expansion, then tie with string (keep the paper in place with a rubber band while tying). Trim off any excess paper.

STEP 5 Now stand each bowl on a large sheet of foil and bring the edges up over the top, then put another sheet of foil over the top and bring it down underneath to make a double package (this makes the puddings watertight). Tie with more string, and make a handle for easy lifting in and out of the pan. Watch our video to see how to tie up a pudding correctly. STEP 6 Boil or oven steam the puddings for 8 hrs, topping up with water as necessary. Remove from the pans and leave to cool overnight. When cold, discard the messy wrappings and re-wrap in new baking

parchment, foil and string. Store in a cool, dry place until Christmas. STEP 7 To make the brandy butter, cream the butter with the orange zest and icing sugar. Gradually beat in the brandy or cognac and chopped stem ginger. Put in a small bowl, fork the top attractively and put in the fridge to set. The butter will keep for a week in the fridge, or it can be frozen for up to six weeks. STEP 8 On Christmas Day, boil or oven steam for 1 hr. Unwrap and turn out. To flame, warm 3-4 tbsp brandy in a small pan, pour it over the pudding and set light to it.

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TV & Streaming

of the best Christmas movies to stream...

The Christmas season is in full swing, and with it, the annual feast of all things yuletide-themed and appropriately festive on streaming. Christmas is a holiday that’s inspired a wealth of enduring comedies about the value of family, community, love, and selflessness during the darkest and coldest time of the year. It’s also spawned no shortage of films that push at the boundaries of those well-worn tropes, twisting their holly jolly exterior inside out into cerebral and occasionally macabre stories that probe at the very darkness the holiday is meant to fend off. In the spirit of the season and all its incarnations, we’ve pulled together a list of treasured classics and eclectic oddities for audiences to watch in the lead up to Christmas. Like Santa’s big ’ol toy sack, there’s something here for everyone! Here are 10 of the best Christmas movies available to stream on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple + Disney +, and more!

If you’re looking for 100 percent confectionary fluff (and aren’t pumping Hallmark’s Christmas schedule directly into your veins), give this so-much-better-than-you-think-it’ll- be Netflix Original a whirl. Amber (iZombie’s Rose McIver) plays a journalist sent to the made-up land of Aldovia the royal passing-of-the-torch to bad boy bachelor Prince Richard (Ben Lamb). Amber winds up going undercover in the castle to get all the scoops, but ... she gets in too deep! The magic of the Christmas season makes everything too romantic, and awwww, you know the rest.

Is Batman Returns a superhero movie that happens to take place around Christmas, or a gothic Christmas film that happens to have superheroes and villains in it? In any case, Tim Burton’s 1992 follow-up to the original Batman is an awesome film filled with cool visuals, exciting action sequences, attempted murder, and a nail-biting finale centred on kidnapped babies, a bat-shaped boat, and an army of rocket-strapped kamikaze penguins. It’s also a story about two strange people who find comfort in each other’s strangeness, an orphan who grows up seek revenge against the parents and society that shunned him, and a nefarious industrialist looking to make a quick buck at any cost. Though it may test the limits of what you might consider a ‘Christmas movie’, Batman Returns is a fantastic seasonal watch and a fun weird film for the whole family.

Better Watch Out feels like a reaction piece 26 years removed from the original Home Alone. The latter is a family comedy film whose premise could’ve easily been played out like a home invasion horror movie, if not for the plucky Ferris Bueller-esque charisma of Macaulay Culkin and the dopey oafishness of Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. Better Watch Out inverts that dynamic, introducing inventive twists and turns that take the unspoken horror story at the heart of that aforementioned film and transforms it into something way darker and more disturbing. This is a not feel good Christmas story; this is a psychological horror movie that plays with the idea of whether or not the behaviors of a kid like Kevin McCallister could be considers a sign of latent sociopathy. To say any more would risk spoiling the film, but rest assured: Better Watch Out is an engrossing holiday horror drama if you have the stomach for its occasionally gory thrills.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, tinsel-lined horror movie, you can’t do better than Bob Clark’s Canadian slasher flick. (Apologies to Jack Frost, the serial-killer snowman movie — Black Christmas is just better!) Originally released in the U.S. as Silent Night, Evil Night, the low-budget horror movie crackles like a warm fire blown by a chilly gust of wind. Clark uses shadows and lurking horrors to turn a sorority house into a something ripped from a Shirley Jackson paperback cover, and while the transgressions within don’t find too much inspiration in Christmas iconography, there is a “wrapping job” that will leave you gasping.

If you haven’t seen It’s a Wonderful Life or if it’s just been awhile, then you might not know how the film, from intro to credits, is unapologetically weird and transgressive. All that Christmas Carol-esque stuff in which an “angel” shows George Bailey (James Stewart) what his town would have looked like had he never existed is just a fraction of the film. It’s preceded by 30 years of Bailey’s life, punctuated by the Great Depression and World War II. And that helpful angel? He and his “boss” are introduced as sentient cosmic dust. The film is a holiday cobbler stuffed with bits of Charles Dickens, Rod Serling, and Billy Wilder. Don’t let its reputation as sappy holiday detritus get in the way you enjoying of an exceptional film — Christmas or otherwise.

What’s more Christmas-y than a story of a loving parent going to whatever lengths necessary to preserve their child’s happiness? ’80s action icon Arnold Schwarzenegger, in a patently bizarre turn of reverse-typecasting, stars in Jingle All The Way as Howard Langston, a mattress salesman whose workaholic attitude comes at the cost of his duties as a family man and father. Desperate to fulfill his son’s Christmas wish, Howard embarks on a search for a Turbo Man action figure. Problem is: it’s Christmas Eve and they’re all but entirely sold out. Complicating his mission is Myron (Sinbad), a postal worker and fellow negligent father who shares the same goal. Jingle All The Way is a Christmas comedy that focuses on the exasperation and escalating stakes between Howard and Myron amid a gauntlet of ruthless holiday shoppers and a Jetpack-enabled finale. If that doesn’t scream “Christmas” to you, I don’t know what does.

I had never seen National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation until a few years ago when a friend of mine, aghast in utter disbelief at this fact, finally forced me to sit down and watch it with them. I understand now why my friend was so shocked: It’s an hilarious comedy, so hilarious in fact that I’m surprised I hadn’t seen it sooner. Chevy Chase is pitch-perfect in the role of Clark Griswold, a salaryman and put-upon father at his wit’s end trying to pull off the perfect family Christmas celebration. As each of his carefully-laid plans either hits a snag or utterly falls apart, so too does Clark’s disposition; transforming from a mild- mannered family man into a living powder keg of seething rage barely holding it together under a façade of holiday cheer. At least he’s got a Christmas bonus coming up, right?

Christmas movie? Halloween movie? Split the difference: Tim Burton and stop-motion animator Henry Selick’s macabre holiday musical is the perfect Thanksgiving movie. The story of Jack Skellington figuring out how to stay in his holiday lane is still a quirky sight to see, with lots of strange details packed into the every frame. If you’ve seen this one too many times, fall down the YouTube rabbit hole of Danny Elfman performing the soundtrack live.

The Santa Clause is a classic Christmas comedy, one that offers a whimsical (albeit slightly macabre) answer for how ‘ol Kris Kringle is such a perennial symbol of the holiday despite ostensibly being a bajillion years old. Tim Allen stars as Scott Calvin, a divorced father and toy salesman who, in a Highlander-esque twist of fate, accidentally kills Santa Clause and subsequently becomes the next man in line to hold his title and responsibilities. Through the struggle of coming to grips with his new identity while trying to convince others of his new role, Scott grows as both a person and as a father; learning the true meaning of Christmas through the firsthand embodiment of one of its most central figures. It’s heartwarming and hilarious in a way that’s stood the test of time and a feel good Christmas movie for the whole family.

White Christmas deserves the biggest and best screen in your home. Director Michael Curtiz shot the 1954 musical in VistaVision, the high resolution format of its era, and the impact of the decision shows in the modern restoration, a presentation as rich with colour and detail as any modern action flick. A huge TV flatters the classic sets and elaborate dance numbers and even though the audio is mono, a nice set of headphones or speakers elevates its classic songs, belted by Christmas music legends Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney. One humongous asterisk: the film does away with the explicitly racist blackface number of its predecessor, Holiday Inn, however it still includes an entire routine dedicated to the joys of a minstrel show. Be prepared to explain the horrific context to younger family members and fend off complaints of sensitivity from any ghoulish relatives.

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news AGM The Clara GAA AGM took place online on Friday evening and went off without any hitches. A few positions were left vacant for now, most notably a Chairman, a role that Mick Prendergast stepped down from after three years of sterling service. It was great to see Jimmy Fitzpatrick return to the position of Groundsman as everyone will know that the grounds will be in pristine condition with Jimmy at the helm. Patsy Whearty, John Prendergast and Micheál Nolan have done a wonderful job of grounds maintenance while Jimmy took his sabbatical. Another notable appointee was John Murphy, who takes over from the stepping down Tom English as Bord na nÓg Chairman. COUNTY SEMI LOSS The Clara U21s suffered a bitterly disappointing 1-18 to 0-7 loss to Carrickshock in a Roinn D county semi final in Hugginstown on Sunday. Carrickshock opened the brighter and were a goal and a point to no score ahead after six minutes. Paul Cody then scored a point from play and Conor Kealy added two points to leave the water break score at 1-3 to 0-3. Clara would have been quite happy with this situation as they were playing into the teeth of a strong wind which most observers reckoned would be worth at least six points. Incredibly Clara never scored from play again. Despite this they reached the half time whistle only 1-7 to 0-5 behind, thanks to two pointed Conor Cody frees and some heroic defending, most notably from central men Evan Whearty and Martin O Connell. Carrickshock took complete control on the restart and outscored Clara eight points to one in the third quarter. The lone Clara point came from a Martin O Connell free. As if things weren’t bad enough, Paul Cody also saw red in this quarter following a rash tackle. The game petered out to its inevitable conclusion, with Carrickshock on top all over the field. One more Conor Cody pointed free was all that Clara could muster and they will be hugely disappointed with their performance. The loss of Shane Staunton was huge but credit to Carrickshock for an outstanding second half performance. They were fully deserving of their victory. Credit to the Clara management of Johnny Shortall, James Dowling and Conor (Curly) Phelan for their efforts. Team - Jack Murphy, Brandon Ryan, Evan Whearty, Jack Carrigan. James Casey, Martin O Connell 0-1f, Noelie O Brien. Dara Glynn, Conor Cody 0-3f. Charlie Ryan, Paul Cody 0-1, Luke Whelan. Conor Booth, Jim Kehoe, Conor Kealy 0-2. FOOTBALL Clara U15s were beaten at the semi final stage in Gowran on Saturday.They came up against a very strong and physical Gowran team with 18 of their team sheet born in 2006. Clara started well, scoring first and were 0-2 to 0-1 ahead at the first water break. Gowran got to grips and went in two points up at the interval. Clara started the second half again slightly the better team and brought the deficit back to a single point at the water break.Gowran powered ahead but if Tommy Delaneys strike had not blazed just over the crossbar the game could have been back in the melting pot. Gowran finished much the stronger, scoring 1-2 in the last five minutes. The scoreline 2-9 to 0-6 was not a true reflection of this game, which was keenly contested throughout. The Clara backs played well all day with Davy Barcoe and Hugh Kelly the stand out players . Conor Hoyne, Tommy Delaney, Joe Power and Luke Lawlor fought hard all day. Team - Orí Phelan, James Cody, Philip Carrigan, Hugh Kelly. Daniel Ryan, David Barcoe, Alex Firbank.Tommy Delaney, LukeLawlor. James Bergin, ConorHoyne, Eoin Corr. Dylan Cummins, Liam Carrigan, Joe Power. Subs used Conor Galvin, Bill Kealy, Padraig Meany, Tom Boyle, Tom Murphy. BOXING Congratulations to Aidan O’Connell of Clara, a member of Paulstown Boxing Club, who won the 65 kg All Ireland Boxing Final recently to become National Champion. This happened on Saturday 11th of December in Trinity College Dublin. Aidan forced his Mayo opponent to take a standing count in the first

Aidan O’Connell of Clara, a member of Paulstown Boxing Club, who won the 65 kg All Ireland Boxing Final

O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club Minor Roinn C Shield Final Winners

round before stopping him in the second round. He is a son of Michael and Joanne O Connell. Well done Aidan. Brilliant achievement! CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this weeks Club Lotto (Dec 7th) .Next Weeks Jackpot will be €9,400 Numbers Drawn were 1, 4, 11, 20 Bonus 15. Play again at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw 1. Marion Murphy c/o Dan O’Driscoll 2. Michael O’Halloran 3. Benny c/o Mary Cody 4. Alice Walsh c/o Mick Nolan 5. Patsy Whelan c/o Hugh Mahon 6. James Dineen c/o Hugh Mahon 7. Margaret Doyle c/o Esther Maher 8. Fiona Noonan c/o Online 9. John Rowe c/o Online 10. Orla Murphy c/o Online Thank You for your continued support THANK YOU MARGARET HANLON There was plenty of words of gratitude, respect and good will towards one of our greatest ever club administrators at Wednesday night’s AGM 2021. After over 20 years as Club Secretary Margaret Hanlon steps aside. The room stood to applause as Club Chairman Johnny Holohan signed off on a tenure as Secretary that has helped shape the club to what it is today. Margaret has been the centre of all the clubs dealings,she’s been the go to person for information, for support, for guidance and for reigning you in if necessary! Straight talking ,honest, trustworthy and always obliging, Margaret will be missed by players,coaches,administrators and supporters because when they needed something they rang Margaret. She would always have the answer. So thank you Margaret Hanlon for your commitment to O’Loughlin Gaels GAA. Enjoy supporting teams, going to games and watching the club grow.

Club chairman Johnny Holohan presenting flowers to Margaret Hanlon marking the end in an era for our club

O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club u22s Kilkenny Camogie County Champions

ROINN C SHIELD FINAL O’Loughlin Gaels 2- 12 B&W/Barrow Rangers 3-7. In tough conditions the girls had to fight hard to the bitter end. The first half saw the Gaels go well ahead 1-8 to 0-2 by 25 minute mark helped by a Kate Furlong goal, only to see that gap reduced by the break after the home side notched up 1-2 without reply just before the break leaving the half time score at 1-8 to 1-4. With a strong wind in their backs the home side worked hard to get on level terms early in the half and went 2 points ahead soon afterwards. To their credit the city girls upped the work rate and got the game back on equal footing again but a third home side goal put the opposition back in front and it looked like they might see the game out. The combined forces led by the minimum in the dying moments of the game. Not for the first time in the game a clearance from Abigail Egan, after stoic defending by Tara O’Keefe,was picked up by Aoife Shealy who made a sniping run through the opposition defence, offloaded the ball to Eva Collins who made no mistake in finding the net. Time was up within moments and the Gaels took the spoils. Well done to both teams who provided a hugely entertaining game. Well done to all involved Sponsors : MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre FOOTBALL Our footballing heroes will take on the Offaly champions Clonbollogue at Freshford on Sunday (Dec 19th) at 11am in the AIB Club Leinster Junior SemiFinal. After beating the Wexford Champions the lads will be anxious to extend their journey and take the club supporters with them. Please support the lads.

O’Loughlin Gaels, Intermediate Football Champions

Tickets only are available online...all the details on club social media or through LeinsterGAA.ie. Sponrs: Pat Carroll’s , Ballybought St. CLUB OFFICERS 2022 GAA Chairman - Johnny Holohan, Secretary - Joan Galwey, Treasurer - Sean Casey, Vice Chairman / Fundraising - Bryan Skehan, PRO Eoin Lawlor, Hurling & Football Eddie Buckley, Juvenile /Games Development/ Irish Officer - Brian Fox, Development: Sean Hogan Grounds, Eddie Maher, Social - Ruth Comerford Handball John Morrissey, Registration Niamh Carroll, Delegate - Luke Roche CAMOGIE Chairman - Eoin Lawlor Secretary - Geraldine Sheridan Hogan Vice Chairman/ Delegate- Gerry Buckley Treasurer Linda O’Leary PRO - Catriona Loughrey Daly, Juvenile Chairwoman - Orla Skehan Juvenile PRO - Dierdre Roche, Games & Coaching Development - Amy Bryan Children’s Officer – Vacant, Registration/ Delegate Joan Galwey BRIDGET JOHNSTON O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club and community wish to extend it’s deepest sympathies to the Johnston Family and friends at the passing of Bridget Johnston. Bridget and her family are synonymous with O’Loughlin Gaels and the locality and will be greatly missed by all on the Hebron Road and surrounding areas. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam dílís

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes CLAIRE MAHER The people of Freshford and the surrounding areas were shocked and saddened recently to hear of the death of a devoted wife and mother daughter and sister. Claire Maher late of Ballyroe Freshford after a short illness. Claire and her husband Tommy are well known and respected in the locality. The deceased was only in her 50s and was originally from Maynooth Co.Kildare. Claire was a quiet and good living lady a devoted wife and mother and followed the camogie and sports which her daughter Carmel was involved in. Funeral Mass took place in Tullaroan Church on Wednesday of last week followed by burial in Tullaroan Cemetery. She is deeply mourned by her husband Tommy, daughter Carmel, mother Mary, brother Ronan, sister in law, brother in law, nieces nephews and extended family to whom sincere sympathy is extended. CAMOGIE CHAMPS Congratulations to Freshford side who won the U22 county camogie final on Sunday last defeating Mooncoin on a scoreline of 2-8 to 0-4 at Danesfort. Well done to all the girls and their management team and all involved in the victory. IONAD LACHTAIN CHURCH ARTS AND HERITAGE CENTRE Next weekend is the final opportunity to shop local for Christmas presents at Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre. A wide selection of local crafts is available to purchase including knitted garments and toys, wood turning, Origami crafts, paintings, soaps and local literature. Deliver your Christmas presents in newly designed Freshford souvenir bags. While visiting, take time to view the Prendergast (nursing) and Barnaville (print) Collections in the museum. The displays include a newly arrived famine pot and a unique Freshford Cavalry medal dating from 1796. During opening hours (Saturday, 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.) and Sunday (12 noon to 4.00 p.m.), the east window in the Church will be lit up with a newly installed lighting system presented to Ionad Lachtain by the late Gerry O’Reilly and the Acorn Club.For gift ideas visit www.ionadlachtain.com or see Ionad Lachtain on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM. ST VINCENT de PAUL SOCIETY. Thanks to all who contributed to the annual Christmas collection for the St. Vincent de Paul Society last weekend. Please note that donations can be made anytime in the blue SVP envelopes which each household has received through An Post. These envelopes can be left in the parish collection box in the porch at Freshford Church or in the collection basket at Tulla Church. ENGAGEMENT Special congratulations go out to local Hurling star Darren Brennan and his fiancée Chloe who announced their engagement last weekend. Darren plays in goal for St.Lachtains Intermediate hurlers and has played with the club since his school boy’s days. He is sub goalie for Kilkenny Senior Hurling side also. They are wished all the best from all who know them. DAY CENTRE Freshford Day care centre continues each Wednesday at 2pm in the GAA Club rooms. The Centre had been closed since the start of the pandemic. It is hoped that all former members will return to the centre and new members are also very welcome both male and female. You will get a cup of tea and have a chat and maybe a game of bingo. TRACTOR RUN Threecastles Gaa club organised a plough through the city tractor run last Sunday in support of Down Syndrome Ireland rolling through the city centre from 5pm to-6pm with a good turnout .The organising committee thank all those who helped in any way and all those who donated so generously. SOCCER Freshford Town had no teams in action at the weekend. The U 10 game was called off on Saturday and the Junior game was also called off on Sunday morning. The Junior sidetook on neighbours Tullaroan in a challenge game at Woodview and came out winners. The Junior side had their first game of the season

recently when they took on St.Canices at home. The game was tied at 1-1 at the break but the home side came out winners on a 3-1 scoreline.Scorers for Freshford were Ml.Burke and Liam Hickey. In the schoolboys section last week the U13 took on Stoneyford away and came out winners on a 2-0 scoreline with goals from Cian Dalton and Charlie Kavanagh. The U15 boys beat Thomastown 4-1 at home with Ml.Bergin getting a hat trick and the other goal coming from M.JBanville. The U17 boys went down to a strong Bridge Utd side on a score of 3-1 with SeanKennedy getting the Freshford goal. The U11s were in action against Callan with some great goals also. U8s The training sessions for U8s will resume on Saturday next at the Sportsfield at Woodview from 12noon to 1pm with Gary in charge as usual. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up. MACRA na FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel, drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development Officer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie GAA NEWS St Lachtains u20 hurling side had win in the opening round of the championship recently at Freshford when they defeated Dicksboro. They now face into semi final action next weekend when they take on Galmoy/ Windgap on Sunday next at Galmoy with throw in at 12.30pm. Best wishes to all players and management involved. All updates on all activities at St.Lachtains GAA can be followed on their social media pages both on Facebook and Twitter The final of the U20 between The Emeralds and Tullaroan took place at Pairc Lachtain on Sunday afternoon last with The Emeralds coming out winners by 2 points after a very entertaining game in front of a good attendance. WALKING GROUP A walking group has started recently and will continue on Thursday evening leaving the GAA clubrooms at 8pm All new members regardless so fitness levels are most welcome. It is open to all and everyone is encouraged to bring a friend along . PARISH NEWS With attendance at Masses almost back to normal Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 8pm. While the obligation to attend Sunday mass is still suspended you are encouraged to return. Safety measures remain in place which includes wearing of masks, social distancing and hand sanitising and full sanitation of the Church after every celebration Mass on Christmas Eve at Tulla Church at 7.30pm and in Freshford Church at 9.30pm. Mass on Christmas Day at Freshford Church at 11am. And on Sunday 26th Dec. at 11am. The restoration of the Stations of the Cross in the Church continues with ten now completed and just four more to go. In order to continue the work you are invited to sponsor one of the stations maybe with your family or a group of your friends. The sponsors will be included in a special roll of honour displayed in the church as a lasting legacy. For further information re same you are asked to please contact Monsignor Kennedy 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. MASS CARDS

Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community alert group remind you that the annual text alert scheme membership is now due. It cost just 10euro per phone number and you can pay membership to any committee member. If unsure or for more information please call Jacinta on 0877658671 or Anna on 0858277965 . New members are welcome and the group wish to thank you all for your continued support. With winter upon us now and the dark evenings and long nights you are reminded to take care of yourself and take care of your elderly neighbours or friends. 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 28 4342 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. Local Lotto Draw Results 6th December 2021 - Winning Numbers : 12 , 15, 23. No Winner. Winners for Draw for 5 x €30 Mia Byrne ( The Shop ),Aisling Rowe ( Niamh O Donovan ), Brian Ireland ( Malachy Hogan ) , Michael Wilkins ( Mary Heffernan) , David Gordon ( Pauline Walsh ) Jackpot next Week € 4,150 Draw in Delaney’s at 9pm on Monday December 13th. All Welcome. GOWRAN DEVELOPMENT Additional lights installed on the green in Gowran in time for Christmas. Purchased with thanks to the money raised in the community by Spooktacular and a grant from Kilkenny County Council. MOLLY’S TEAROOMS The Christmas order book is now closed. Mince pies, fresh sponge cakes, cheesecakes and pavlovas are available to order right up to Christmas. GOWRAN PARK Flash sale on Goffs Thyestes Chase tickets until Sunday, December 19th. Available at gowranpark.ie GOWRAN ABBEY NURSING HOME Gowran Abbey are running a seasonal raffle with 3 baskets of goodies up for grabs. Tickets are now available in the Nursing Home - 2 Strips (10 Tickets) for €5 - or 5 Strips (25 Tickets) for €10. Tickets can be purchased ‘In Person’ or by telephone (056 772 6500) using your debit/credit card! All raffle proceeds are solely used for enhancing the social adventures of residents. Good luck to all who choose to enter the raffle SPORTS ROUND UP MICHAEL O’LEARY UNDER 21 HURLING The Young Irelands U-21 Hurlers lost out to Lisdowney 1-12 to 1-8 in the County Roinn B Semi-Final in Gowran on Sunday afternoon, where the strong blustery conditions proved challenging for fluent hurling particularly free-taking. Unfortunately, for the Gowran Men, they squandered numerous chances shooting 15 wides, with at least 10 of those coming in the first-half where they had a strong wind advantage. Lisdowney were dominant on the scoreboard for most of the half where they led 0-8 to 0-1 after 21 minutes, before points from two Dylan Carey frees sandwiched in between a point from play by Patrick Brennan narrowed the gap by half-time. 0-8 to 0-4. Lisdowney stretched the advantage out to 5 points

early in the second half - 0-10 to 0-5 - before a brilliant solo goal from Jack Brennan in the 36th minute narrowed the gap to two points. 0-10 to 1-5. The scores remained the same until the 45th minute before a goal from Aidan Tallis just before the water break restored their five-point advantage. 1-10 to 1-5. It was a significant goal and Lisdowney maintained control afterwards. Dylan Carey added three pointed frees throughout the closing quarter, but despite his best attempts with 0-7(all frees) and strong valiant defending from Sean Fitzpatrick, Cathal Darcy and Sean Middleton, they couldn’t get another goal to trouble Lisdowney’s aspirations. UNDER 15 FOOTHBALL Superb performance as U-15s storm to football final A Superb Team Performance from the Young Irelands U-15 Footballers saw them qualify for the County Football Final as they defeated Clara 2-9 to 0-6 in Gowran on Sunday Morning. In a low scoring first-half, the Gowran Boys led 0-4 to 0-2 at half-time with the outstanding Michael Keating and Alex Kenny among the point scorers. Points were exchanged early in the Second-Half, before Michael Keating crashed home a goal in the 38th minute following a brilliant surging solo run from the exceptional Matthew Murray. 1-5 to 0-3. Young Irelands Goalkeeper Richard Fenlon was called into action shortly afterwards when denying Clara a certain goal chance, before points were exchanged shortly as Michael Keating added a superb individual effort in the 45th minute to maintain their five point lead intact. 1-6 to 0-4. Clara were awarded a penalty in the 49th minute, but Richard Fenlon saved their attempt. However, their effort was retaken because of a foot block inside the penalty area, but again the Young Irelands goalkeeper came to the rescue with another superb stop. Buoyed on by that Penalty Save, the Gowran Boys finished strongly outscoring their opponents 1-3 to 0-1 over closing 10 minutes with the highly effective Substitute Shane Simpson and Jake Kelly among the scorers. A superb team performance with outstanding displays throughout particularly from Matthew Murray, Kieran Timmins and David Langton who were magnificent in defence while Alex Kenny, Jake Kelly and Cian Phelan doing a lot of trojan work around the middle third area. Michael Keating led the way upfront as he always provided a constant threat. He scored 1-3 and played a part in several other scores, while the impact of the subs bench proved the strength in depth on show as they accounted 1-2 in the final 10 minutes. Young Irelands now play St. Martins in the County Final. DICKSBORO CALENDER 2022 Dicksboro 2022 A3 Spiral Bound Wall Calendars now available to purchase.A must have Christmas stocking filler featuring every single player who wore the maroon and white this past year (fingers crossed) A beautiful production, thanks to Tom Beirne, Davy Ryan, Alan Condon, Jason Dempsey and the team at Kilkenny Print and Graphics.Limited availability so please get your order in and collect the calendar from the clubhouse on any Thursday night before Christmas. Please see all socials to purchase. U21 TEAM Our Under 21 Team had a very good work out on Sunday Morning Versus Holycross Ballycahill played in Holycross. This was key preperation ahead of a big battle against Mooncoin next Sunday in the Semi Final. Best of luck to all involved. MINOR CAMOGIE Well done to the Dicksboro Camogie Minor team who defeated James Stephens on Saturday in Johns Park. CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results Dec 11th Nos: 23,11,3, 32 Jackpot: €5,700– not won Draw Prizes – €50: Charlie Phelan c/o Jim McGarry €25 each Johnny Campion c/o Online €25 each Patricia Dalton c/o Davy Dalton €25 each McGuire c/o Online Co Op draw ticket Pat Mulrooney c/o Jim Murphy Promotors prize Jim Murphy New weeks draw 5,850 Dec.17th

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB Leinster IHC Semi-Final Naas vs Glenmore @ St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge, Kildare THERE will be no more big days out for Glenmore this season, as they simply had no answer to Tom Mullally’s Naas machine. The Kildare champions ran out worthy winners on a score line of 1-16 to 1-10 at St Conleth’s Park, Newbridge last Saturday. It was to be a disappointing end to an otherwise brilliant year for Declan Wall’s charges, who succeeded in their primary objective of securing a return to senior hurling in Kilkenny. Having dispatched Laois side Ballinakill in the previous round, Glenmore never got up to the required level in a bid to secure a final berth. Naas were on it from the throw-in, and truth be told, Glenmore never looked likely victors as the Kildare side’s pace and power was too much to compete with at the home of Kildare GAA. Glenmore’s tally of 1-10 contained just 3 points from play, and this coupled with a penalty miss would Penalty! Ger prove costly, however, Naas Aylward is thoroughly deserved to reach the fouled provincial decider where they will face-off against Wexford champions Oylegate. The Kildare side will go into this as firm favourites. Tom Mullally’s men raced into a 0-5 to 0-2 lead by the first water break, and were dominating all over the Newbridge pitch. The Kildare side looked physically stronger and quicker to the breaking ball and with impressive performances from the likes of dual star Brian Byrne, wing-forward Cathal Dowling and raiding wing-back Sean Gainey. At the short whistle, Glenmore had managed to tag on 3 further scores, as Naas went into the interval 0-11 to 0-5 ahead. The six-point gap would prove insurmountable as Declan Wall’s side were not allowed to build any rhythm across the 60+ minutes. Despite trailing by two majors at half-time, Glenmore were handed an excellent opportunity to half the deficit, when a Naas defender was adjudged to have fouled the Kilkenny side’s captain Ger Aylward. Alan Murphy stepped up and struck the penalty well, but could only watch in horror as net minder Cormac Gallagher made an incredible save to deny the Nore siders. Naas, startled by this let-off, then regained control of affairs and kept the score board ticking over with points from Brian Byrne, Jack Sheridan and Simon Leacy. Any doubt about the result was removed when an error from Glenmore keeper, Tomas Dunne, allowed lively corner-forward Shane Ryan to finish to the net and raise a green flag. There was only a ripple of delight in crowd when Glenmore’s top-scorer Ian Byrne found the net, but the goal wasn’t to be the catalyst for a comeback, it was merely consolation for the Kilkenny sides efforts as their season came to a conclusion in Newbridge. Naas Scorers: Brian Byrne 0-5 (4 frees, 1 ‘65), Shane Ryan 1-1, Jack Sheridan 0-3, Cathal Dowling 0-2, Rian Boran, Kevin Whelan, Sean Gainey, Simon Leacy, James Burke 0-1 each. Glenmore Scorers: Ian Byrne 1-7 (0-7f), Alan Murphy 0-1, Shane Murphy 0-1, Liam Hennessy 0-1. NAAS: Cormac Gallagher; John McKeon, Richard Hogan, Conor Gormley; Kevin Whelan, Ross Kelly, Sean Gainey; Rian Boran, Simon Leacy; Jeff Keane, Jack Sheridan, Kevin Aherne; Brian Byrne, James Burke, Shane Ryan. Subs: Conor Dowling for Kevin Aherne (49 minutes); Conan Boran for Shane Ryan, Mark Nevin for Richard Hogan. GLENMORE: Tomas Dunne; Sean Duggan, Eoin Aylward, Shane Doherty; Colm Doherty, Eoin Murphy, Shane Murphy; Philip Roche, Alan Murphy; Mark Aylward, Liam Hennessey, David Burke; Robbie Fitzgerald, Ger Aylward, Ian Byrne. Subs: Cathal Beirne for Colm Doherty; Ethan Phelan for David Burke; Darragh Hartley for Robbie Fitzgerald; Richie Hennessy for Liam Hennessey. REFEREE: Shane Duignan, Offaly

Reach out!

One step beyond Naas prove a hurdle too far for Glenmore

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Hurling matters

Captain Ger foiled!

Tale of two Shane’s! Naas goal scorer Ryan holds off Glenmore’s Doherty

Captain we have contact!

Alan Murphy gets his strike away

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster Club SHC semi-final: Shamrocks Ballyhale 3-24 St Rynagh’s (Offaly) 2-18 (AET)

Offaly champs miss chance as Ballyhale march on

All pix: Danny Lahart

Tullamore was rocking last Sunday as Offaly champions St Rynagh’s almost claimed the scalp of the biggest name in club hurling. It was fitting that recently announced Young Hurler of the Year, Eoin Cody should be the man that lit the fuse and forced the game to

extra time. The in-form Luke O’Connor opened the scoring with an early point much to the delight of the home crowd, as he slotted over having recycled the ball well. The Offaly side were dealt a huge blow when full-back Pat Camon appeared to tear a hamstring when driving out of defence. The No.3 had to be replaced and some alterations were made to the XV to cover the defender’s loss. Shamrocks registered their first score of the day through TJ Reid from a placed ball around with just over 3 minutes on the clock. Things were Eoin Cody defending from about to get significantly better for the current Allthe front Ireland champions when two quick-fire goals quietened the majority of the crowd in Bord na Móna O’Connor Park. First up was that man Eoin Cody. He collected the ball and rifled to the back of the net from the right of the St Rynagh’s goal. From the puck-out, Shamrocks gained possession and got the ball to Joe Cuddihy, who wasted no time in getting his shot away. The ever-alert captain, Colin Fennelly used all his nous to divert Cuddihy’s shot past Clancy in the home side’s goal. Ballyhale were rampant. There appeared to be a concerted effort to raise green flags from the Kilkenny champions as their early probing’s focused on the St Rynagh’s goal. Captain Fennelly was then fouled, which provided TJ with an easy opportunity to split the posts from the placed ball. The next point would come from Brian Cody, who burst forward and slotted over a lovely score. The super-sharp Eoin Cody then found himself in acres of space before firing over for his side’s 4th point of the game. The Offaly side were shell-shocked. They weren’t getting anywhere near their men; they were second to every ball and Shamrocks tempo was causing them all sorts of problems. They did manage to get their second point via a Luke O’Connor free, but from the puck-out, Ballyhale advanced and wing-back Evan Shefflin struck a lovely point from out the pitch. St Rynagh’s No.14, Aidan Treacy then pointed to stem the tide a little. Yet again, James O’Connor’s men replied with a nice longrange point from midfielder Ronan Corcoran to leave the score 0-3 to 2-6 in favour of the Noresiders at the first No Entry! water break. Brian Cody The Offaly side emerged from the hydration held up stoppage a completely different animal. They notched the first two scores of the second quarter, with points from Ronan Hughes and Paul Quirke. Last season’s county captain, Adrian Mullen struck his first point of the day in reply. Adrian Treacy then hit a ‘65 free to get his side’s 6th point of the day. Things were about to get even better for St Rynagh’s. On twenty-three minutes, their most impressive player, Luke O’Connor received the ball from Stephen Quirke, and batted it past Dean Mason. The noise from the Faithful County’s team supporters intensified. Game on. Hogan’s side built on this major and they then engineered a lovely score from the provider of the goal, Stephen Quirke. The next score needed to be a Shamrocks one, and it was to be. Adrian Mullen did well to collect a loose ball in tricky underfoot conditions before popping it between the posts on 26 minutes. This was only the second score registered in the 2nd quarter by the Kilkenny champions. St Rynagh’s were briming with confidence, they were hunting in packs and leaving no spaces for the opposition to operate in. The visible nerves of the first quarter had been extinguished. They were now just 4 points down. Just when James O’Connor would

Sham

EXTRA

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Hurling matters

WARNING Artist at Work - TJ Reid breaks away

Richie Reid in control

Captain Colin Fennelly tries to prevent the clearance

rocks

special!

have been hoping to get his side to the interval without any further damage, his Shamrocks team were dealt a huge blow. Attacking star Joe Cuddihy was given a straight red card for what the referee Chris Mooney deemed a high and dangerous challenge on Matthew Maloney. Luke O’Connor then fired over another point from the placed ball to leave just a goal between the sides on the short whistle, St Rynagh’s 1-8, Shamrocks Ballyhale 2-8. When play resumed, the deadly Luke O’Connor popped over another point from a free to add to his growing tally. The response to the challenger’s rising audacity was a beautifully worked score from Shamrocks. Keeper Dean Mason picked out Ronan Corcoran in space who advanced before passing to Evan Shefflin who took a lovely point from distance. St Rynagh’s then worked a good play from a sideline cut. Aidan Treacy found Ronan Hughes who struck a lovely score. Further good team play saw Paul Quirke find space before executing a fine score. Referee Mooney then gave Ballyhale a free following a disputed ‘throw ball’. TJ did the rest. Paul Quirke then took a lovely point, before Adrian Mullen replied with

one of his own. Quirke then did it again, his third score in the 3rd quarter. The Offaly side brought the quarter to an end by adding another point from the stick of Luke O’Connor. The sides were level, 1-14 to 2-11. StRynagh’s had won the quarter, 0-6 to 0-3. The home Gaels in attendance roared. It was all to play for entering the final quarter. Ken Hogan’s side took to the field with a huge spring in their step. Then on 48 minutes, substitute Aaron Kenny cut in from the end line before finding the onrunning Ronan Hughes who calmly slotted the ball past Dean Mason. St Rynagh’s now led, 2-14 to 2-11. The champions needed a reaction and fast. Again, it was to be from a free and from the hurl of TJ Reid. Luke O’Connor then showed great pace and poise before splitting the posts. Shamrocks 14 men were struggling to cover the necessary ground, their opponents were mopping up the breaking ball in the middle

third. Neat interplay from Adrian Mullen and Colin Fennelly led to TJ getting on the ball and dispatching a lovely score over the bar, to reduce the deficit to 2 points. Then after a little scrappy play in the Shamrocks half of the pitch resulted in a free to the Offaly champs, which Luke O’Connor duly scored from. 3 points between the sides as the game entered injury time. The upset was on the cards. The scalp was almost taken. A place in the provincial final nearly secured. The holders needed a goal. Richie Reid stepped up to hit a ‘65. He launched it in and around the danger zone, and as the ball went loose, Eoin Cody reacted sharply to fire to the net. All square in Tullamore, St Rynagh’s 2-16, Shamrocks Ballyhale 3-13. Extra time now required to decide the winner. With Shamrocks now returned to their full quota of players, the late Eoin Cody goal appeared to shake his side into decisive action. They tore into a seemingly deflated and stunned Offaly side, hitting point after point and holding their opponents to just 2 points from placed balls during the additional time. Adrian Mullen and 2-goal hero Eoin Cody fired over a brace of points each. There were also scores from Brian Cody, Eoin Kenneally, Ronan Corcoran and two from TJ Reid, one from play which was delightful. His brother Eoin, was also on target as the All-Ireland club champions eventually showed their ruthless streak. The final score of the day was fired over by Eoin Cody. It was one hell of a battle. Job done, eventually. A place in the Adrian Mullen fires provincial over a point final secured. Final score, St Rynagh’s 2-18, James O’Connor’s Shamrocks Ballyhale side 3-24. Ballyhale Shamrocks scorers: E Cody (2-3), TJ Reid (0-7, 5 frees), A Mullen (0-5), C Fennelly (10), B Cody (0-3), E Shefflin, R Corcoran (0-2 each), E Kenneally, E Reid (0-1 each). St Rynagh’s scorers: L O’Connor (1-8, 6 frees), R Hughes (1-2), P Quirke (0-4), A Treacy (0-3, 2 frees), S Quirke (0-1). Ballyhale Shamrocks: D Mason; K Mullen, J Holden, B Butler; E Shefflin, R Reid, D Corcoran; R Corcoran, E Kenneally; B Cody, TJ Reid, E Cody; A Mullen, C Fennelly, J Cuddihy. Subs: P Mullen for Kenneally (50); D Mullen for Butler (53). E Reid for Cuddihy (red carded, e/t); Kenneally for Fennelly (62). St Rynagh’s: C Clancy; C Hernon, P Camon, S Wynne; M Maloney, B Conneely, D Shortt; A Treacy, J O’Connor; P Quirke, S Og Lyons, G Conneely; L O’Connor, S Dolan, S Quirke. Subs: R Hughes for Camon (4); A Kenny for G Conneely (41); C Flannery for S Quirke (63). S Quirke for Flannery (e/t); Flannery for S Quirke and N Wynne for Kenny (69); C Phelan for Shefflin (71); B Rigney for Lyons (76). Referee: C Mooney (Dublin)

>> SHERRY SAYS... And breath.......9 points up at the first water break. Cruising. A blistering start to their Leinster semi-final. I don’t know what Tipp legend Ken Hogan said at the shortest of short breaks, but it certainly worked. The Offaly champions played much better in the 2nd quarter. I’ve heard of the magic sponge, but this miracle turnaround was of biblical proportions. St Rynagh’s outscored Shamrocks 1-5 to 0-2 in the period to half time. Obviously, the sending off of Joe Cuddihy would further inspire the Offaly champions and prove a major stumbling block to the All-Ireland club champions quest for provincial glory. The 14 men stood up to the challenge and came through this sternest test of their title winning credentials. Eoin Cody – electric. Adrian Mullen, pure quality. TJ steadying the ship. Joey Holden plucking balls galore out of the Tullamore sky. The introduction of both Patrick & Darren Mullen had a real positive impact on the outcome of this game. So, Croke Park on Sunday. Let’s be havin’ ye Clough Ballacolla.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB Leinster Club SHC Final Croke Park (Sunday 1:15) Shamrocks Ballyhale (Kilkenny) vs Clough/Ballacolla (Laois) >>> SHERRY SAYS FINAL PREVIEW... JAMES O’Connor will take his Shamrocks side to Croke Park on Sunday with one aim – to put the Laois champions to the sword and in doing so, retain their provincial title. Following an immense battle with Offaly champions St Rynagh’s last weekend, the Waterford native will have spent the last few days assessing his troops and getting fitness updates from the medical team on player availability. No player will want to miss the Leinster decider, but they will need to be pretty certain that their bodies will stand up to the rigors of a final contest, in what could be another bruising encounter. At the time of writing, the availability of some players is still unknown. Evan Shefflin left the field late on in the semi-final, and to be fair, it didn’t look good for the marauding wing-back. Colin Fennelly appeared to be nursing his shoulder as he was withdrawn from the action. Darren Mullen, who was unexpectedly brought into the action around the 53rd minute last week, may be needed from the start on Sunday. Would there be an appeal on the red card issued to Joe Cuddihy, that automatically ruled the attacking star out of this weekend’s final? More questions than answers, but one thing is certain, the shrewd O’Connor and his backroom team will have hatched a plan to give Shamrocks the best chance possible of continuing on their All-Ireland journey. The semi-final win saw the like of Eoin Cody and Adrian Mullen excel. Along with TJ Reid and captain, Colin Fennelly, the attacking unit will need to functioning at their highest level to quell the rising threat of Laois champions, Clough/Ballacolla. Declan Laffan’s side are maybe somewhat, the surprising opposition for Ballyhale on Sunday. They had never won a game outside of their own county until they defeated Rapparees of Wexford in the provincial quarter-final in November, an unexpected win. They then tore up the script again when they defeated Dublin kingpins Kilmacud Crokes in Portlaoise last weekend to secure their final berth and a shot at the most famous side in club hurling. Their star man to date has been star forward and captain Stephen Maher. ‘Picky’ as he’s affectionately known, has amassed a decent scoring total in 2021 championship hurling – going into the semi-final with Crokes, he had registered 4-64, incredibly, 4-19 from play. Maher notched another 1-8 in the surprising win over the capital side. Deadly accurate from the placed ball, this forward certainly knows where the posts are, and the Ballyhale defence will need to stick closely to the dynamic attacker who has been responsible for just over 44% of his clubs scoring return this year. In centre-forward Jordan Walshe and ‘Picky’s’ fellow corner man Stephen Bergin, they have a potent forward group that can cause problems to any opposition defence. In Midfield Willie Hyland and Aidan Corby are hardworking runners, who can also take a score. The like of Ronan Corcoran and Brian Cody will likely have a busy afternoon in the middle third. In Willie Dunphy, like TJ, they have a recently married player who is putting the start of married life on hold while the club championship continues. Have no doubt that both men will have their minds firmly focused on the provincial final come Sunday. Clough/Ballacolla have won two county titles in the past 6 months, thanks to the pandemic. They could never have expected that 2021 would yield such great days out. From a Shamrocks point of view, the men called in from the bench have all impacted the games to date. That will give a little more confidence to James O’Connor when he decides on his line out. The likes of Kevin Mullen, Eoin Kenneally, Eoin Reid, Laim Barron – may all have a role to play at headquarters on Sunday. Winter hurling is tough, no place for the faint hearted. The conditions that are stars are playing in and on, are accelerators for muscle injuries, the number of hamstrings pulled and torn over the past month will be high. Sunday’s surface should be more conducive to good hurling, and less of the normal mud bath at this time of the year. Many of the Shamrocks players will have plenty of experience of Croker, and this may help in the heat of battle. The wide-open spaces should suit the likes of Eoin Cody and Adrian Mullen. Should the Noresiders restrict the impact Stephen ‘Picky’ Maher has on Sunday, they will believe that they have enough in their pack to see them over the line. Just 60-odd minutes stand between Shamrocks and another provincial title. Since 2006, Ballyhale have collected 10 Kilkenny titles and turned those into six provincial wins and five All-Irelands. Sunday will test James O’Connor’s team, but as he alluded to following the Semi-final win, there’s plenty more left in the tank from this panel of players. Another chapter about to be written. Another step on their journey. Believe in Ballyhale.

Ballyhale believe! Laois champions set to test Shamrocks metal

All pix: Danny Lahart

Darren Mullen could get the call on Sunday

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 17 December 2021

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Hurling matters

Stars in their Eoin right! Double Trouble - Eoin Cody & Adrian Mullen know what it’s like to win @ Croker

Joey Holden - The full-back will have a pivotal role on Sunday

TWO of our counties finest hurlers have been recognised on the national stage. Ballyhale sharp-shooter Eoin Cody has won the Young Hurler of the Year award for the second year running at the 2021 PwC GAA/GPA All-Star awards. The talented attacker has had a fantastic start to his intercounty journey, and one again this has been recognised for his sterling efforts, as he helped the cats in retaining their Leinster title during a summer of mixed fortunes for Brian Cody’s men. A former student of St Kiernan’s College, Eoin also has played a major role in his club’s drive to securing 4-in-a-row Kilkenny senior hurling titles and their continuing march through Leinster. Elsewhere, county netminder Eoin Murphy collected his 3rd All-Star award, further recognition of the Glenmore man’s talent in the No.1 jersey. His latest award follows his two previous

INSET: Eoin Cody leading the way

TJ’s accuracy will be crucial

MAIN: Eoin Murphy has his 3rd All-Star award

accolades in 2016 & 2018. Murphy, who has been orchestrating club proceedings from centre-back in their intermediate championship winning season, has been in sensational form, will no doubt be one of the first names on the Kilkenny team sheet when the county season resumes in 2022, presumably in the goalkeeping position! In collecting this award, Murphy became the 189th Kilkenny player to receive one of the coveted All-Star awards. All-Ireland winners Limerick, dominated this year’s team selection, securing 12 jerseys. Beaten finalists Cork failed to secure any awards, and in doing so, became the first runners-up to do so. Eoin Murphy is joined by Waterford’s Conor Prunty and Clare wizard Tony Kelly as the ‘outsiders’ in this year’s AllStar team.

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Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Rachel Crotty and Gary Gaule hereby apply for Full Planning Permission to erect a single/two storey flat roof extension to the rear of our property with all associated site works located at 1 Loreto View, Kilkenny -R95CXF3. 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. Michael Condon MRIAI, Architect, MRC Design Ltd – 1 City Wall, James Street, Kilkenny Ph. 087 2032869 KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I ,Aisling Reade,intend to apply to above authority for Permission for the following at Ballydaniel Threecastles Co.Kilkenny (a)Erection of Dwelling House (b)Erection of Garage (c)Installation of New Waste Treatment System (d) Entrance from Public Road (e)Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning 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. Aisling Reade

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