Kilkenny Observer 18 September 2026

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Friday 18th September 2026

Your Finances Budget 2027: so, will you be better off?  Pages 3 &14

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Free Sundown Sessions with The Barrel Yard All Stars for Culture Night  See Page 7

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Your take-home pay The Budget: how much money will people actually get back?

Potential new income tax cuts in the upcoming Budget would make a real difference to families across the country, according to Tánaiste Simon Harris.

But just how much money will people actually get back in their pockets?

Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers said earlier that Budget 2027 would only

amount to “a few hundred euro” back, but the Tánaiste told reporters at the recent Fine Gael think-in that “hundreds of euros” would make a difference.

The Tánaiste did not outline the Budget details yet, but said the current entry point of €44,000 at which workers hit the higher tax rate was “still too

low”.

The total budget package this year – to be announced on October 6 – will consist of €8.5 billion, made up of €7 billion in additional public spending and a tax package of €1.5 billion in new measures.

There is speculation that Ireland’s higher tax band will increase by €2,000. This move

would cost the Government €460 million in its first year, according to statements made by Minister Harris in the Dáil in June.

There are two main tax rate bands in Ireland: a standard rate of 20% and a higher rate of 40%. Currently, the standard rate for an individual applies to all earnings up to €44,000,

and all earnings above this are taxed at 40%.

People who are taxed as a couple and have a single income can avail of the lower tax rate on the first €53,000 they earn, while those with two incomes are taxed at the lower rate for their first €88,000 combined earnings.

The tax bands are also slight-

lege before moving to Dublin, where he gained experience in the pub trade.

During the 1970s, he joined the family business on John Street and from 1975 began developing what would become one of Kilkenny’s most recognisable hospitality destinations.

Under his direction, Langton’s evolved far beyond its beginnings as a traditional public house. Through years of investment, expansion and innovation, the John

Street premises developed into a major hotel, restaurant, entertainment and events complex.

For generations of Kilkenny people, however, Langton’s has represented much more than a business. It has been the setting for countless nights out, family occasions, weddings, celebrations and friendships and famously, the place where many local couples first met.

The wider Langton name became associated with a

Special Report Page 14

New laws for kids online sanctioned by EU

Kilkenny mourns the passing of Eamon Langton Kilkenny has lost one of its best-known business and community figures following the death of Eamon Langton on Wednesday morning.

A name closely associated with the social, hospitality and cultural life of the city for more than half a century, Mr Langton played a significant role in shaping Kilkenny’s entertainment and hospitality scene.

Born in 1948 to Edward and Bridie Langton, he was educated at St Kieran’s Col-

ly different for lone parents where the first €48,000 is taxed at the lower 20% rate.

If the entry point for the higher rate of tax was increased by €2,000 in Budget 2027, the maximum amount an individual earning €46,000 or above could save is €400 annually.

number of distinctive venues, including Langton House Hotel, Bridies Bar, the Set Theatre and the Marble City Bar and Tea Rooms.

Each added its own character to the city while contributing to Kilkenny’s reputation as a destination for hospitality, entertainment and culture.

Eamon Langton also had a great love and admiration for Kilkenny hurling.

He followed the fortunes of the Cats with passion and

took enormous pride in the county’s achievements on the hurling field.

Mr Langton’s contribution extended far beyond the doors of his businesses. That contribution received one of Kilkenny’s highest honours in June of this year when he was granted the Freedom of Kilkenny City.

His passing marks the end of an era for Kilkenny and for a hospitality story that became deeply woven into the fabric of the city.

The EU will limit access to social media, video-sharing platforms and online games for under-15s, a move that Irish ministers have advocated for months.

The EU will opt for a gradual approach with an effective ban on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat or YouTube for children under three years of age.

However, many critics argue that the new measures do not go far enough and are open to manipulation.

Full or partial parental controls would be required for children between three and 15 years old. The idea is to “limit the access of tech companies to our children, and not the other way around”, according to a draft legal document outlining the new law.

Large online platforms will have to send compliance plans to Brussels and have them approved before they can roll out new features.

They will also have to pay a supervisory fee and could face financial penalties if they fail to comply with the rules.

The rules, which have to be approved by EU governments and MEPs, say children between three and 13 can access “fully parent-controlled” accounts that meet strict safety standards.

Children between 13 and 15 will be entitled to “introductory accounts” with limits on screen time and restrictions on who can contact them.

Teens over 15 can set up their own social media accounts.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

News Set against the backdrop of one of Ireland’s Home of Halloween destinations, an unmissable new festival brings a number of spellbinding events inspired by Kilkenny’s storied past from October 29 to November 1.

The inception of Kilkenny’s Toil & Trouble Festival in 2024 was to commemorate the 700th anniversary of the burning of Petronella de Meath for heresy in Kilkenny city. She was tried in place of her lady, Alice Kyteler, who fled before her trial, which was the first of its kind in Ireland. Nods to both women can still be seen throughout the city centre today, embedded in its history.

It has since grown to a full programme of events across the weekend that explores the societal attitudes towards women, tracing back to the spells cast on society during the witch trials in the 14th century at the festival’s roots.

At its heart, it is also a celebration of women through captivating performances, informative talks and interactive creative workshops.

At the launch of Kilkenny’s wider Home of Halloween programme at Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny County Council’s tourism officer Martina Comerford said: “We are thrilled for Kilkenny to be included as a Home of Halloween destination. There were events celebrating both the ancient roots of Halloween in Ireland and com-

Trials and tribulations of Kilkenny’s history

memorating the Kilkenny witch trial across five weeks throughout the county. The growth of this year’s pro-

gramming is exciting and positions Kilkenny as a mustvisit destination this autumn for authentic, entertaining

experiences.”

On Halloween night worldrenowned spectacle makers Macnas bring Cailleach

through Kilkenny’s medieval streets: a new street spectacle inspired by Petronilla de Meath and Alice Kyteler,

and by the trial of 1324 that has carried their names for seven hundred years.

Petronilla was burned at the stake. Here she carries the fire herself, leading a procession of ecstatic townspeople marching behind her to the beat of their drums, while behind them all Alice presides. From John Street to Canal Square from 6.30pm.

The festival opens on Thursday 29 October at the Watergate Theatre with a film screened to a specially commissioned live score. Set in medieval Iceland and shot in stark black and white, Nietzchka Keene’s The Juniper Tree stars Björk in her first leading film role, a waking dream of a film about two sisters who flee after their mother is accused of witchcraft. Composer Matthew Nolan performs this score with Seán Mac Erlaine, Lisa Dowdall and Kilkenny native Damien Lennon.

Medieval music meets jazz at St Canice’s Cathedral on Friday 30 October, as Anakronos presents The Red Book of Ossory. The 14th century manuscript preserves 60 songs written

by Richard de Ledrede, the bishop who prosecuted Dame Alice Kyteler. Their melodies are long lost, so Anakronos, led by Caitríona O’Leary, a founder member of Anúna, have rebuilt them from medieval sources: tunes that could well have been sung in Kilkenny in the 1300s.

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News

Irish Revolut users scammed Irish people are understood to be among those whose sensitive information may have been disclosed after Revolut mistakenly gave data to scammers.

The bank handed information to fraudsters who claimed they were from a government agency and were given access to the data.

Highly sensitive data exposed in the leak includ-

ed customers’ identity and contact details.

It also included dates of birth, postal and email addresses, and phone numbers, as well as copies of their identity documents including passports and driving licences, according to TechCrunch, which first reported the breach.

It was reported that the exposed data included cus-

tomers’ IBANs. Asked repeatedly exactly what data was disclosed, Revolut would not say. It also did not reply when asked if it has informed the Irish Central Bank about the data breach.

One woman whose account has been hacked said she was now locked out of her account. She said this was extremely annoying.

She could not confirm whether the incident was a result of the data breach or a separate incident.

She said she was lucky this has not left her unable to access money as she also has an AIB current account.

Revolut insisted it had not been hacked.

“Our core infrastructure, databases and customer accounts were not hacked.

The issue involved an external party using an official government agency email domain to send information requests,” it said.

The fintech said a “limited number” of individuals were impacted by the breach and these customers have been contacted directly.

“Revolut recently identified a sophisticated external impersonation scam where

an unauthorised third party utilised a legitimate government agency domain email to submit fraudulent requests for information,” Revolut said.

“Upon detection, we immediately blocked the address and alerted the relevant government agency as well as enforcement agencies, data protection and financial regulators.”

Trump visit: when discussions went well beyond ceremony alone

By Annette Keating in Doonbeg, Co Clare Although President Trump’s visit to Ireland lacked the formal status of a State visit, Irish officials framed it as an opportunity to mark the deep and historic ties between Ireland and the US. The substance of the discussions, however, went well beyond ceremony.

The most consequential moment of the trip came during Trump’s joint appearance with Micheál Martin. Sitting beside the Taoiseach, Trump said he would “love” to see Northern Ireland unify with the Republic of Ireland, describing reunification as inevitable and adding that it “may as well happen now”.

The comment immediately triggered a diplomatic row, drawing a sharp response from pro-British unionists in Northern Ireland who saw it as an unwelcome intervention in a highly sensitive constitutional question.

The timing made the remark especially pointed.

It came just weeks after the new UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, had stated that a referendum on Northern Ireland leaving the UK was “off the table”.

Downing Street reaffirmed that position on the same day Trump spoke, effectively rebuffing the sentiment even as it avoided a direct clash with the US president.

Trump also used the Dublin meetings to raise long-standing grievances about the economic relationship between the two countries. Referring to the significant presence of US technology and pharmaceutical companies in Ireland, he told Martin, “You took all out medical companies... [but] we’ve got to get

a couple of them back,” and added: “You fleeced us, but that’s okay... There are a lot of rooms to go around and our relationship with you is fantastic.”

His comments touched on a real structural feature of the Irish economy. USowned firms, concentrated in tech and pharma, employ 10% of workers in Ireland, a relationship built over decades as successive Irish governments prioritised attracting those companies’ jobs and tax revenue.

Martin, for his part, kept his own remarks focused on the strength of the two countries’ economic ties rather than engaging directly with Trump’s more combative framing.

Trump’s visit was met with significant opposition. The scale of the protests underscored the polarised reception Trump continues to receive in Ireland, even as official channels emphasised historic goodwill between the two nations.

After his political engagements, Trump shifted his focus entirely to the golf.

He travelled to Trump International Golf Links and Hotel, Doonbeg, the resort he owns, where the Amgen Irish Open was taking place.

In just 48 hours, Trump’s Ireland trip moved from formal diplomacy to a major geopolitical flashpoint and then to a private golf getaway. The united Ireland comments will likely have the longest-lasting impact, reigniting a debate over Northern Ireland’s constitutional future that UK and Irish officials had been trying to keep dormant, while the economic remarks and street protests reflected the more familiar reception Trump has received on previous trips abroad.

It all adds up: Maths is the key...

The 21st edition of Maths Week Ireland returns from October 10 to 18 and presents an opportunity to showcase how maths is woven into every aspect of our lives. Whether we’re cooking, managing our finances, planning our day or making decisions, maths is a key part of how we understand and engage with the world.

Maths is the key to careers in science, technology, engineering, medicine, sport and beyond, and the key to solving the challenges and

creating the opportunities of the future.

A wide range of events will take place in schools, universities, libraries, visitor centres, in parks and even on city streets, all with the aim of promoting positive attitudes towards maths.

Over 500,000 people are expected to participate across the island of Ireland.

SAM, the humanoid robot from Fusion Technologies in Co. Meath, joined the launch of Maths Week 2026 to demonstrate how advanced technology is

becoming more accessible and to encourage young people to develop an interest in STEM: Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths. SAM brings to life how maths supports innovation across areas such as AI, drone technology, robotics and communication.

Universities across Ireland will also host activities for visiting primary and secondary schools, and for schools unable to travel, daily MathsWeekTV shows will bring shows into the classroom. Online quizzes

The numbers game: Minister for Education and Youth Hildegarde Naughton TD with students Tatiana Serbanescu (14), Ellie Lawlor (13), Eve Dillon (14), Harry HatronByrne (13) and Paul (14) and Leon (14) Moulin, along with SAM the humanoid robot, mark the launch of Maths Week Ireland 2026.

PHOTO: Mark Stedman

and games will connect tens of thousands of pupils with fun activities.

Hildegarde Naughton TD, Minister for Education and Youth, said: “The latest PISA results demonstrate the strong performance of Irish students in mathematics, science and reading, reflecting the importance of nurturing curiosity, resilience and problem-solving skills from an early age.”

• The full programme and details are at www.mathsweek.ie.

New Programme Manager at See Her Elected See Her Elected has announced the appointment of a new Programme Manager.

Jill Mellor takes up the role after Dr Michelle Maher retired from the post.

See Her Elected works to remove barriers to women’s participation in politics across rural Ireland by providing training, support and networks for women who

want to influence decisionmaking in their local communities.

Jill, who has a background in journalism, law, politics and special needs and disability advocacy, said she is looking forward to the challenge ahead: “I am honoured to take up the role of Manager with See Her Elected. Women play a vital

role in the life of rural Ireland and it is vital that women’s voices are represented where decisions about our communities are made. I am looking forward to bringing my political experience to this role in encouraging and supporting women to seek election to local authorities.”

She worked in journalism provincially at the Roscom-

mon Champion and also nationally as a freelancer, before taking up a position as a Parliamentary Advisor to Denis Naughten TD from 2007 to 2025.

“During that time I was involved in every Dáil and local authority election working with both party and Independent candidates, both male and female,” she said.

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Smithwick’s Experience

Free Sundown Sessions with The Barrel Yard All Stars for Culture Night

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny’s cozy and enclosed Barrel Yard is definitely the place to be on Culture Night for the free, unique ‘Sundown Sessions’ featuring an all-star line-up of talented local musicians and bands.

The historic landmark

in the heart of medieval Kilkenny will be rocking this Friday, September 18 from 6pm until late as an evening of uplifting live music and fantastic local food gets underway in the picturesque surroundings of The Barrel Yard.

Ignacio Peregrina, Manager, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny said they’re pulling out all the stops for the Sundown Sessions with the Barrel Yard All Stars, one of the final few Barrel Yard Sessions for 2026.

“We invite our regulars and

those celebrating Culture Night to come along and enjoy a fantastic line-up of talented artists from Kilkenny showcasing indie folk, roots, country, blues, rock, and Americana sounds.

“This will be a one night only Culture Night celebration of Kilkenny’s music scene. We’re honoured to have local heroes, Lincoln Skins, present The Barrel Yard All Stars. The Skins bring a fresh roots-inspired sound with old-time country and will be joined on the night by the cream of the crop of Kilkenny’s music scene. Together, they’ll be blending genres and styles for this much anticipated live performance.

“We’re keeping it all local and Kilkenny favourites Blasta Wood Fired Pizza will be selling authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas throughout the evening. So, whether you're a music lover, foodie, or simply looking to experience Culture Night in a unique setting, Sundown Sessions at The Barrel Yard

promises a memorable evening of phenomenal home-grown talent, a vibrant atmosphere, and an unforgettable live music experience.

“Admission is free to the over 18s only event. Food and beverage options, including non-alcoholic and low alcohol alternatives, will be available to purchase on site,” Ignacio added.

The Sundown Sessions are among the final free live gigs at the Barrel Yard for this

year. Sessions continue on September 19 and 20, 26 and 27 before a well-earned break until next season.

On Saturday, September 19, Damn Dirty Apes play from 5pm to 7pm. The following evening, Ryan Nugent will command the Barrel Yard stage. On Saturday, 26 September, Ramblin Rovers will play from 5pm - 7pm and the season draws to a close for 2026 on Sunday, September 27 with Up She Flew from 4pm to 6pm.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Freedom and the price that comes with being wired up It was the French philosopher Descartes who declared, “I think, therefore I am.” Today, it would be more apt to declare, “I am wired, therefore I am.”

Today if you are not wired, you do not exist for those who are. Like radio and television in the last century, the internet has become not only an indispensable tool but also a vital component of our everyday life.

It has become so useful, significant and meaningful for a variety of administrative, cultural and political reasons that a life without it seems unimaginable in the 21st century.

Tweeting, texting, poking, SmartTV... putting your life on hold on a cloud... technology is, and has been, changing the way we live, at a more rapid and advanced stage than perhaps we realise.

While I very much embrace the new technology, one of the things that worries me is our increasing dependence on

it. Some people I know have a pathological relationship with their devices, while others feel not just addicted, but trapped.

We are finding it harder and harder to unplug and renew ourselves. You know the feeling — can’t stop frenetically checking your emails, Facebook, Twitter and so on — and how often is such social

media used to spit venom at others, the physically and sexually different, the differing thoughts and religious beliefs of others?

Prof. Mark Williams at Oxford sums up the damage we’re doing to ourselves: “What we know from neuroscience — from looking at the brain scans of people

always rushing around, who never taste their food, who are always going from one task to another without actually realising what they’re doing — is that the emotional part of the brain that drives people is on high alert all the time...

“But nobody can run fast enough to escape their own worries.”

Or fears and prejudices.

At last count, there are 2,880,233,742 users of the internet; that is, almost one in three of the world’s population. While these numbers refer primarily to Europe, North America and Asia, in Africa, Latin America and the Middle East its use is growing rapidly, as witnessed by the role of social media in, say, the Arab Spring, the Syrian refugee crisis or the indoctrination of Lone Wolf terrorists.

Not everyone who is online is wired. The latter are those of us capable of finding a date or a job through social networks such as LinkedIn, downloading the latest episodes of Black Mirror or purchasing our own bespoke shoes.

Those merely ‘online’ generally avoid these services.

However, using the internet just for an email account and cheap airline tickets does not make you technologically incompetent, but rather concerned for your autonomy and personal freedom.

Broader and deeper integration of users’ personal lives has meant people have been more than willing to divulge and share everything about themselves online — sometimes to their detriment, or, at the least, their embarrassment.

Meantime, the technology giants are being repeatedly asked to act, and legislated against, regarding how they impact on young people, amid a growing concern over the effect smart devices are having on children’s mental health – which psychologists have suggested is fast becoming a public health crisis.

Along with bullying, grooming and suicide ideation.

In the end, it’s down to responsibility. With freedom, the freedom that our everevolving technology gives us, comes a price. That price — if we purport to be a civilised people — is responsibility.

It seems we just might be finally waking up to such responsibility...

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Shasby brings cremation services closer to Kilkenny Kilkenny families choosing cremation are set to have the option available much closer to home, with Michael Shasby Funeral Director developing a new cremation chapel that will provide an important addition to funeral services in the area.

For many years, families opting for cremation have had to make a considerable journey from Kilkenny to reach the nearest cremation facility.

On what is already one of the most difficult and emotional days for any family, that additional journey can place further pressure on relatives and friends.

The new cremation chapel aims to change that by providing a much needed local alternative and giving families greater choice when making funeral arrangements.

Designed to offer a peaceful and dignified setting, the chapel will provide a place where relatives and friends can come together to remember a loved one and say their final goodbyes in calm and respectful surroundings.

The development comes at a time when cremation is becoming an increasingly considered choice for families. Until now, the lack of a facility close to Kilkenny has been

an important factor for people considering the practical arrangements involved.

Having the service available locally will be particularly welcomed by elderly relatives, people with mobility difficulties and families with young children. It will also allow mourners to remain closer to their own communities and familiar surroundings at a time when that sense of connection can be especially important.

Michael Shasby Funeral Director has extensive experience in caring for and supporting bereaved families, and the new chapel will further extend the range of funeral services available to people across Kilkenny and surrounding counties.

Central to the development will be an emphasis on dignity, respect

and personal choice. Families will have the opportunity to arrange a meaningful farewell reflecting the wishes, beliefs and personality of the person who has died.

Funerals are deeply personal occasions and every family has different wishes about how they want to remember and honour a loved one.

Providing another option locally will allow more families to make those decisions based on what feels right for them.

The development of the new Shasby cremation chapel therefore marks a significant addition to funeral services in Kilkenny, offering greater choice and convenience while allowing families to concentrate on what matters most, remembering and honouring their loved one with dignity.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

News

Former owner of Carlow Swan Fruits facing fraud charges The former owner of Swan Fruits, the Irish grocery wholesalers, has been arrested and is now facing a number of fraud-related charges, according to the Sunday Independent.

John Swan, of Meadow Bank, Palatine, Co Carlow, who once owned what was

one of the country's largest fruit-and-vegetable wholesalers, has been released on bail and is now expected in court later this month, it is understood.

The fruit-and-vegetable wholesaler once had a turnover of €40m before the business crashed. When it was

placed in voluntary liquidation more than a decade ago, it owed more than €2m to creditors. Unsecured creditors totalled over €1.4m and secured creditors, believed to be the Revenue Commissioners, were owed over €87,000.

Set up by John Swan in 1996, the firm operated a retail store

in Mullingar, Co Westmeath, and a wholesale cash-andcarry fruit-and-vegetable business in Carlow.

The liquidation of the firm is still ongoing and has faced numerous delays over the last 12 years, making it one of the longest wind-up processes of its kind. Insolvency expert PJ

Lynch was appointed as liquidator in 2016 and began an in-depth investigation to track down money to repay creditors. Lynch has previously filed reports to the Companies Registration Office to say that a delay in getting control of a €239,000 pension fund set up by the Carlow firm before it

collapsed had been one of the factors that had exacerbated the long delay in the liquidation process.

The Garda National Economic Crime Bureau carried out a criminal investigation into the affairs of the company after receiving a detailed report from the liquidator.

€30m fund for counties welcomed

by Cleere Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow/ Kilkenny Deputy Peter 'Chap' Cleere has warmly welcomed funding of close to €30 million for Kilkenny and Carlow under the new Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund.

The Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund replaced the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund, which supports urban regeneration projects and the development of sustainable communities through the provision of part-funding for applicant-led projects.

Deputy Cleere outlined how crucial this funding will be for the constituency: “I am delighted this morning to warmly welcome €29.7 million in funding under the Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund for our constituency. The Towns and Cities Regeneration Investment Fund will continue to build on the success of the URDF in tackling regeneration. This tranche of funding will be critical to investing in our constituency to ensure we have a vibrant and attractive constituency for people who live in and visit Carlow and

Kilkenny.

“This funding announced today by my Fianna Fáil colleague Minister James Browne will help enhance our urban spaces in our towns and city so that people can meet up socially, feel safe and be somewhere they can be proud of,” he said.

The announcement comes as part of a €409 million pot across every local authority in the country.

Deputy Cleere said he is looking forward to the progression of the projects from both local authorities so that regeneration in Carlow and Kilkenny can evolve as quickly as possible.

“I look forward to seeing transformative regeneration across our constituency thanks to this funding today.

Attention now turns towards the local authorities to deliver these projects.

“I have no doubt both Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils will work extremely hard to deliver these fantastic projects that will help our towns and city across the constituency be a more attractive place for people to live and work,” he said.

Remember those worthy charities in your Will People in Kilkenny are being encouraged to consider including a charitable gift in their Will this My Legacy Month, as new research finds that the number of people making regular donations to charities has dropped from 40% in 2024 to 32% in 2026.

My Legacy represents more than 90 charities across Ireland and advocates for charitable gifts in Wills as a way to provide sustainable future support for important charitable causes. Its members include L’Arche Ireland and Focus Ireland, which support communities

in Kilkenny.

Speaking on the campaign, Chairperson of My Legacy, Niall O’Sullivan, said: “We know that many people want to support charities, but that regular giving can sometimes be difficult to maintain. A gift in your Will is one way to make a lasting contribution to a cause that matters to you while still providing for the people closest to you.

"A legacy gift is something everyone can give and no matter how large or small the gift, it will make a huge difference to the charity you choose to remember in your Will."

Fancy yourself as a stand-up comic?

Do you consider yourself funny? Or do you know someone who always has friends and family in stitches and has been told they should be on stage? Now is their chance to prove it.

As part of the Carlow Comedy Festival 2026, organisers are seeking aspiring comedians to take part in a special 'One Night Stand-Up' showcase event on December 3, which will officially kick off this year's festival while also raising funds for a local charity.

To launch this year's festival, renowned Irish

comedian Karl Spain will mentor and coach eight aspiring performers, helping them develop and refine their stand-up routines before taking to the stage in front of a live audience. The showcase event will take place in The Tower, Dinn Rí, Tullow Street, Carlow, on the opening night of the festival.

Participants do not need previous stand-up experience. Organisers are encouraging anyone with a sense of humour, a good story to tell, or the courage to try something new to

apply.

Encouraging people to get involved in the One Night Stand-Up Showcase, Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development and Enterprise with Carlow County Council, said: "This is a unique opportunity for people to step outside their comfort zone and experience what it's like to perform stand-up comedy.

Whether you've always wanted to try it or have been encouraged by family and friends, we'd love to hear from you. Karl Spain's guidance and mentoring will

provide invaluable support for participants, and the event promises to be a memorable way to launch this year's festival."

Applications and nominations are now being invited.

Interested participants can nominate themselves to be considered for one of the eight places. Applications should be submitted by September 30.

• To apply: Think you're funny? Ready to take your shot at stand-up comedy? | Carlow County Council's Online Consultation Portal

New apprenticeship offers pathway to law The Law Society of Ireland has introduced a new solicitor apprenticeship programme, marking one of the most significant changes to solicitor training and access to the profession in many decades.

School leavers will now be able to train to become a solicitor without a thirdlevel degree, creating an alternative to the traditional graduate-led route. Designed to broaden access to the profession, the earn-whileyou-learn programme offers

another access route for would-be solicitors. It will be fully accredited by the Law Society and of equal standing to existing qualification pathways.

The apprenticeship programme was developed in response to the Law Society’s strategy to expand access to the profession. This commitment is already reflected in a range of initiatives, including hybrid training models that reduce the need for trainees to attend courses in person, as well as scholarships and

grants designed to remove financial barriers to legal education.

President of the Law Society, Rosemarie Loftus, said: “Combining high-quality education with paid, practical workplace experience will enable apprentices to develop the knowledge and skills to excel in their legal careers from day one.

“This Professional Solicitor Apprenticeship will help develop the next generation of solicitors while supporting law firms across Ireland

to attract and retain talented people in their local communities.”

Until now, legal executives and legal clerks were required to have at least five years’ experience before they could pursue qualification as a solicitor. The new programme allows them to begin that process earlier in their careers.

Expressions of interest are now open, with the first cohort of apprentices expected to commence in September 2027.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

We must lift children out of poverty Child poverty sounds like a phrase which should belong back in Victorian times in tales like Charles Dickens’s ‘Oliver Twist’ or involve Tom the dirty chimney sweep in Charles Kingsley’s ‘Water Babies’. Hungry orphan Oliver has to live by his wits as a thief, while the luckless Tom is driven up chimneys to act as a human brush by the horrible Mr Grimes.

But child poverty is very much still with us, despite Ireland being the second richest country in Europe (eighth richest if the distorting effect of multinationals is calculated in).

The latest ESRI report out this month found, shockingly, that in 2024 one child in every five was below the poverty line when housing costs are taken into account.

What is more, the rate of child poverty for those with children under five has been rising consistently from 2018

to 2024, nearly doubling.

Despite Micheál Martin’s promise to reduce the rate to 3% by 2030, the figure is going in the wrong direction and stood at 8% in 2024.

Since then the housing crisis has worsened and the cost of living has increased.

Why isn’t the picture improving and what can be done to lift children, who are our future, out of deprivation?

Firstly, being poor, where children are in families with incomes 60% below the median figure, goes deeper than money. It means going without things like heating and nutrition that the rest of us take for granted but also lack of access to things that should be part of childhood.

The report found that 10% of children under 16 were not able to take part in school trips, regular leisure activities or have new clothes – they become have-nots.

There is no mystery about the causes involved in poverty and deprivation; the cost of housing, low incomes, one-parent families, disability and unemployment are all factors. The question is how to offset their long-term effect on children which can result in reduced education prospects, poor health and employment opportunities.

If the Government took the decision that we can afford to spend €700m on lowering the VAT rate for the hospitality industry to 9%, surely they can afford to prioritise children?

A plethora of measures have been put in place under the Child Poverty and Well Being Office in the Department of the Taoiseach, including hot school meals, free books, increased back-to-school and fuel allowances which, while they may help, have resulted only in a slight reduction in child poverty and haven’t im-

pacted the overall problem.

With the October Budget looming and a tsunami of price increases on the way, Opposition parties are keen to see that further, more effective measures are taken.

Labour are advocating a targeted tier of child benefit for disadvantaged families which would go further than exist-

“Driven up chimneys to act as a human brush..

ing payments.

“Costs are rapidly rising for families,” Labour leader Ivana Bacik pointed out recently.

“Public transport fares will increase by over 15%, while electricity and gas costs are steadily rising. Rising household costs will force more and more children into poverty. Excise reductions are holding down the price of petrol and diesel for drivers, but with 80% of our food imported, higher oil prices will drive up the cost of groceries.”

There are glaringly obvious things which would make a difference not only for low-income families but for all parents, like the long-promised reduction in childcare costs and effective support for creches. It would make sense too to make sure that Tusla’s Family Resource Centres, where the focus is on early intervention (there are 136 community-based centres around the country),

are sufficiently resourced to meet the increasing demand for child and parenting support.

Nordic countries often have the best record when it comes to safeguarding vulnerable children and Iceland has an imaginative solution to ensure that those near the poverty line don’t miss out in the form of an activity voucher to a certain value, giving them access to afterschool and recreational activities, something that could be copied here.

A change of attitude might help too. Books like Charles Dickens’s Oliver Twist helped to change attitudes from a poorhouse mentality where the poor were blamed for their misfortunes. In Iceland, supports for children in lowincome families are regarded not as handouts but as an investment in the future.

Our children are our future too.

Supporting Irish natural beauty Today I want to share with you some of my favourite Irish CLAIR skincare products WHITTY because many of you are interested in shopping locally and buying quality Irish brands.

Supporting Irish and local brands is about more than buying Irish. It helps support the people, families and communities behind these businesses, while celebrating the creativity and expertise we have right here on our doorstep.

Kinvara Skincare is one of our customers’ favourites, with its Absolute Cleansing Oil and Active Rosehip Day Cream being two of its standout products. The cleansing oil gently removes make-up and daily impurities without leaving skin feeling stripped, while the Rosehip Day Cream provides lightweight hydration and nourishment. Together, they make a beautifully simple foundation for a daily skincare routine.

I love that they are the first company to use dual language on their packaging, both Irish and English language.

They proudly launched their new range of packaging this year.

We think this is a fantastic move by an

amazing Irish brand.

Holos is made in County Wexford and their hero product is Holos Love Your Skin Anti-Ageing Facial Oil. This gorgeous blend is packed with organic argan oil, rose, frankincense and palmarosa. It is designed to nourish, soften and hydrate the skin, while helping to smooth the appearance of fine lines. Just a few drops can leave skin feeling beautifully soft and looking radiant.

For something a little different, Ancestrol Cosmetics Original Tallow & Honey Balm is a multipurpose option. Handmade in Ireland, this rich balm combines grass-fed tallow with honey and is designed to nourish and moisturise dry skin.

It is deeply hydrating, suits all skin types and is especially good for combination skin.

Irish brand Vico have a beautiful range of soaps and deodorants that prove personal care doesn't have to be complicated. All made using only natural ingredients and packaging that is recyclable.

Irish skincare has come a long way, and these brands are a fantastic reminder that we don't always have to look further afield for quality, beautiful products. From a luxurious facial oil to an everyday bar of soap, supporting Irish beauty is something worth feeling good about and our skin might just thank us for it too. Why not call in to see in our store, we would be happy to introduce you to our full range of products.

Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 | Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 186

" HOY today is here"

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

News Budget 2027 presents a challenge for a Government that is aiming to improve the business environment through structural tax reform over the next several years. However, political and economic realities, particularly affordability challenges exacerbated by global economic events, may restrain such reform efforts. It will become clear on Budget Day. Ireland’s per-capita economic growth ranks in the Top 10 of advanced economies globally. The public finances are in a strong position and the budget surplus is set to outperform official forecasts again this year. Government net debt is down €52bn since 2021.

Nonetheless, spending pressures are high, particularly due to energy cost uncertainty stemming from events in the Middle East.

Although much remains unknown, the Government outlined the broad parameters of the Budget in the Summer Economic Statement. Recent political commentary and the publication of the Tax Strategy Group papers also provide some indication of the measures that may be under consideration.

Overall Budget package The total Budget package is expected to amount to €8.5 billion, comprising: €7 billion in additional public spending, of which €5.9 billion is for additional current expenditure and €1.1 billion for additional capital expenditure; and €1.5 billion in new tax measures.

This represents a smaller overall package than Budget 2026, which amounted to €9.4 billion.

The Government has said that Budget 2027 will focus on “rewarding hard work, boosting competitiveness and investing in the future”. It also stated that the Budget would be aimed at improving public services, investing in critical infrastructure and strengthening Ireland’s long-term economic resilience in the face of rising external threat.

Here are some of the measures we think will be included in Budget 2027: Investment Undertaking Tax (IUT) – no change in Budget 2027 Budget 2026 reduced the rate applying to Irish investment undertakings, equivalent offshore funds and certain life assurance products from 41% to 38%. This was a welcome first step and received wide support from the industry’s leading players, including Davy.

It was initially understood that this may be the first of a series of cuts to IUT aimed at equalising the rate ultimately with Capital Gains Tax (CGT), although the Roadmap for the Taxation of Retail Investment (the roadmap) has indicated that the ultimate rate of IUT may end up being lower than the current rate but higher than CGT, potentially being at around 35%.

The Government initially in-

Budget 2027: What We Expect According to leading financial services firm Davy dicated that this may be considered as part of the Budget 2027 package, although the roadmap later suggested that this will be looked at in future budgets, rather than in Budget 2027.

Deemed Disposal – no change in Budget 2027 While some reports previously indicated that the eight-year deemed disposal rule was being considered for removal in Budget 2027, the roadmap indicated that this will be looked at in the longer term, likely Budget 2028 at the earliest.

Under this rule, an investor is deemed to have sold their holding every eight years with the gains on this deemed disposal taxed even though the investor has not received any proceeds.

Davy has previously called for its removal and greater alignment between the taxation of investment funds and investments subject to CGT. We believe a simpler and more consistent regime would encourage households to invest for the long term through appropriately diversified products.

Savings and Investment Accounts – introduced in Budget 2027 based on Swedish and UK models The Government is developing a new tax-incentivised account intended to simplify retail investment and allow individuals to grow their savings more efficiently.

The roadmap indicated that this account will be tax-free up to an annual limit with a flat tax on holdings paid for amounts held above the threshold. The exact details of these limits are expected to be announced as part of Budget 2027.

This account considers the

recommendations of the Funds Sector Review and the European Commission’s recommendation on Savings and Investment Accounts. The Irish system will take inspiration from multiple account models worldwide such as the Swedish and UK models but will be unique and not directly copied from any one country’s model.

The account will not apply geographic restrictions on investments and will allow investors to invest in a wide range of regulated funds, equities, bond products and Life Company investment products. Investments in the SIA account wrapper will not be subject to IUT or a deemed disposal event every eight years.

It is hoped that the introduction of the new account, combined with other steps towards reforming the existing tax regime for investment funds, will be an important step towards wider participation in investment markets.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – headline rate reduction unlikely Earlier this year, Taoiseach Micheál Martin described Ireland’s 33% headline CGT rate as too high and suggested that it was discouraging investment and the reinvestment of proceeds from business sales.

This comes on the back of an increased focus across Europe on improving domestic business competitiveness across the union.

However, a headline reduction now appears less likely.

The Tax Strategy Group papers conclude that it is difficult to establish whether countries with lower CGT rates enjoy a significant competitive advantage.

A targeted enhancement of Revised Entrepreneur Relief may be more likely.

Budget 2026 increased the lifetime amount of qualifying gains taxed at 10% from €1 million to €1.5 million. Budget 2027 could increase this further, broaden the relief or allow proceeds reinvested in another qualifying business to benefit from rollover relief.

Davy believes that a more competitive CGT rate remains an important priority for supporting Ireland’s growing community of investors and entrepreneurs.

Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT) – no change expected There is speculation that the Government may introduce a small cut to inheritance tax, with ministers lobbying on this issue in recent years.

While the thresholds were increased modestly in Budget 2025, no changes were announced in Budget 2026.

Given the attention the Group B CAT threshold has received in recent years, it may be worth noting that any change now appears unlikely.

The threshold, which applies to gifts and inheritances between grandparents and grandchildren, aunts/uncles and nieces/nephews, and between siblings, has been the subject of media and political discussion, particularly around its impact on individuals without children.

While a number of TDs and commentators have called for an increase and the issue featured in our pre-Budget submission, the Tax Strategy Group has indicated that raising the threshold would carry a significant Exchequer cost, making a change less likely in Budget 2027.

Pensions – incremental changes to the Standard Fund Threshold As noted in the Tax Strategy Group Papers, the In-

terdepartmental Pensions Reform and Taxation Group (IDPRTG) remains committed to the outstanding items and progressing pension reform.

Areas of priority are the single-step authorisation scheme and In-Scheme Drawdown.

More changes are also expected to the Standard Fund Threshold (SFT) as the department considers the remaining recommendations from the de Buitléir Report.

The expected changes could involve a review of the valuation factors used to capitalise defined benefit pension schemes, allowing private pensions to discharge chargeable excess tax over a longer period and amendments to the public sector encashment option.

Some of these proposals may be considered as part of Budget 2027, but some may be looked at in the longer term.

Income tax – increase in higher tax threshold Tánaiste Simon Harris has stated his intention to deliver an income tax cut, with speculation that this could see the threshold at which people begin to pay the higher rate of income tax rise from €44,000 to €46,000. Such a move would equate to an annual tax saving of approximately €400. This would mark a return to gradual income tax reductions after Budget 2026 did not include changes to income tax bands.

Universal Social Charge (USC) – modest change to reflect minimum wage While there has been no formal indication regarding changes to USC in Budget 2027, it is expected that, as in previous years, the band will be increased modestly to account for changes to the

minimum wage. The Low Pay Commission has recommended an increase in the minimum wage by 5.6%, which is being considered as part of Budget 2027.

Energy and sustainability – support measures and carbon tax deferrals The Government is looking at a suite of measures to keep energy bills down both in Budget 2027 and longer term.

These may include a lower rate of VAT for electricity, which would likely require a derogation from the European Union.

The Government is also examining making changes to carbon tax which could see planned increases in the coming years reduced or halted while energy uncertainty and high costs remain.

Other measures being considered include strengthening grants for retrofits and renewable energy such as solar panels and domestic battery storage for households.

Ahead of the Budget, the Government has confirmed that the temporary excise cut to fuel, introduced to help consumers deal with higher energy costs as a result of the war in the Middle East, will continue in the immediate term and will not come out of Budget 2027. *This article is based on our predictions for Budget 2027 as presented in Government publications, media commentary and public statements.

The final contents of Budget 2027 may differ from our predictions as any decisions are not yet final. This article is speculative and general in nature and is not intended to constitute tax, financial or legal advice. It does not take account of your financial situation or investment objectives.

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News

ICMSA say factories will miss opportunity given by ban on Brazilian beef ban if farmers lack confidence in buying Autumn forward cattle As the we head into the Autumn-buying period for forward cattle, the Chairperson of ICMSA’s Livestock Committee has called for processors to outline proposals for winter and spring finishers against the background of what he called the “farmer margin massacre” that had been inflicted by the factories in the latter half of Spring 2026.

The Livestock Committee Chairperson, Michael O’Connell, said that the very first thing to note was that it was the presence of factory agents ringside that was driving the trade for those forward cattle to feed and slaughter from January onwards. Whatever happened, he said, we just could not have a repeat of the late Spring 2026 scenario that saw beef price drops of on average 8c/Kg to 10c/Kg per week.

Mr O’Connell pointed to a study ICMSA carried out into the difference in prices for the second quarter of 2025 versus 2026.

“A startling €109 million was lost by farmers on prime steers and heifers in this period in 2026 compared to the previous year based on an average of 97c/kg of a loss over this 13-week period. We must also note that farmers were waiting three to four weeks to get cattle slaughtered which would have further added to outstanding feed bills. We know that there were ‘quirks’ in both years but we endeavoured to look at the figures on the best ‘like-for-like’ basis we could, and we’re satisfied that our figures are correct and valid. It’s to do no more than state the obvious but no farmer can take this hit; it’s not sustainable. The fall in beef prices was so severe that it went out the farm gate into the wider rural economy and had a ‘knock-on’ negative on contractors, merchants, vets etc. Processors can’t expect farmers to take a hammering like this again and if they do think that farmers will take another financial beating like that then they’re going to receive a rude shock”, he said Mr O’Connell said that this year has been extremely testing in terms of weather, market volatility and cashflow and farmers can’t be playing ‘Russian Roulette’ feeding cattle with no direction of travel on final price. He said that feeding cattle has become increasingly specialised and one dent in efficiency or market value can be detrimental to the viability of the farm.

Left: Michael O'Connell, Chair of ICMSA Livestock Committee

the markets the Brazilians had hoped to fill. But that’s going to mean that farmers have the confidence to buy now for slaughter next Spring and that, in turn, is going mean that the factories give some indication of the prices those farmers can expect and then hold to those commitments. There’s chance for all of us involved in producing beef to make a margin if the factories can curb their usual instinct take advantage of their suppliers and wipe them out when those farmers are most exposed”, concluded Mr O’Connell.

“We must see a direction of travel; we must see a pricing model indicative of what markets can return over the next six or eight months. Now that we see the ban on Brazilian imports ‘sink in’, we see processors increasing their kill plans and increasing their presence ringside and across the countryside.

The beef is wanted – we know it and so do they it’s now time to put your cards on the table and ensure that there some degree of protection and return to the farmers who have been supplying beef to your factories all their working lives. And this isn’t a request; it’s a warning.

Because no family farm can withstand another spring like the last”, said Mr O’Connell.

The ICMSA Chairperson predicted an increase in beef price as factories actively hunt for cattle.

“We have seen the price cuts reversed and increased reluctance from farmers to reduced quotes, there’s also a slight rise in average prices paid weekly. Taken together, it’s obvious that factories are anxious for the cattle. The pressure has come off farmers to move cattle. Grass growth has resumed and a lot of the traditional breeds of cattle have been moved on before 30 months. It’s inevitable that cattle prices are going up and we need that sooner rather than later”, he said.

Noting that it was in their own interests to ‘sort out’ supply and give farmers encouragement to buy cattle for finishing, Mr O’Connell cited the opportunity provided by the Brazilian ban.

“Irish processors have opportunities to exploit EU markets which the Brazilian had ‘in their sights. Declining herds all over Europe puts us in a great position to look to

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Car, heating, the mortgage... all driven up Diesel has gone above €2 a litre at many petrol stations.

The AA puts the extra cost for a typical driver at around €235 a year. Home heating oil is up 44% on the year. A 1,000-litre fill is about €550 dearer than last winter. Food, for once, is relatively stable, but the rest of the bills are not.

Inflation hit 3.7% in August, up from 3.4% in July. The CSO says housing, water, electricity, gas and fuels were the main driver, rising 8.5%. Petrol is 9% dearer, diesel 15%.

The suppliers have not waited either. Airtricity, Bord Gáis and Energia have all announced price increases for early October. Dual-fuel customers could be looking at another couple of hundred euro, depending on the supplier.

Planned excise increases on petrol and diesel, due this month and next, have already been pushed back. That is probably sensible. Adding another 9 or 10% to a litre now

would have been asking for trouble.

Then came the ECB. On Thursday it increased rates by another 0.25% to 2.5%, the second rise in three months. Christine Lagarde, the ECB President, called it a “no-brainer”. Philip Lane, the ECB’s chief economist and a former Governor of the Central Bank of Ireland, speaking in Wexford the following day, said the inflation squeeze on households from energy was likely to get worse

and left the door open for another hike before Christmas.

Tracker holders will feel it first. There are about 130,000 of them. The latest estimates suggest an extra €24 to €28 a month for every €100,000 borrowed. On a €150,000 tracker with more than 10 years left, Thursday’s increase alone could mean roughly another €200 a year. Mortgage interest in the CPI is already up more than 10%, and there will be pressure on fixed-rate deals

too. The better three and fiveyear fixed rates will not be available forever.

Add it up and a household here can be hit three ways at once: the car, heating and the mortgage. That is before the electricity bill lands. Real takehome pay is not keeping up.

The Central Bank has already said energy is eating into what people have left to spend.

On paper the country still looks fine. Domestic growth is holding up. Unemployment is around 5%. Households saved

nearly €1 in every €5 of disposable income in the second quarter. That savings figure will be tested this winter. A high savings rate is not much use if it is being drained by oil and interest.

There is not a lot you can do about the price of a barrel of oil. There is something you can do about the bill. Review the energy providers. The October hikes are not identical. Dual-fuel, electricity-only and gas-only are moving by different amounts. Use a comparison site and see if you are still on last year’s deal.

Review the tracker and the fixed rate before the next ECB meeting, not after it. The banks did not all pass on the full rate increases in the last cycle. They may not this time either, but you will not know unless you ask.

In Kilkenny, A-rated homes have been selling at about 20% more than C-rated ones.

A BER is no longer just something on a form. It is becoming

part of the value of the house, because it is becoming part of the running cost.

Grants will not cover everything, and a deep retrofit is still a serious outlay. Even so, insulation and a better boiler will do more for a family on oil than another year of hoping prices ease.

The typical selling price here is around €350,000, and the second quarter was one of the busiest on the register. That is the good news. But it will not count for much if the mortgage is up and the heating oil and the car cost more to fill.

There is also a case for targeted help rather than another blanket payment.

Why give the same payment to somebody on a large income in an A-rated home as you give to a household struggling to heat an older house with oil? john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Teenagers across Ireland are being invited to upcycle unwanted clothes and fabrics into creative and new fashion designs. Relove Fashion is about much more than creating an eye-catching outfit. It celebrates creativity, repair and reuse.

The Relove Fashion competition challenges young people to create a wearable outfit without buying anything new.

Previous entries have used their grandad's old shirts and mam's vintage bridesmaid dresses, their ripped jeans, torn bedsheets, moth-eaten hats and even old trampoline nets. Young people across Ireland can give everyday items a stylish second life through upcycling.

During this competition participants develop practical skills in reuse, repair, sewing, design and creative problemsolving, while exploring how fashion can be more sustainable. Along the way, they help tackle Ireland’s overconsumption of fast fashion and the amount of waste this creates, and discover how reusing and repairing clothes can make a real difference to the planet!

At the launch of the Relove Fashion competition Lorraine Keane, Fashion Relief founder and media presenter, said: “Every year I’m completely

A cast-iron heritage…

Paddy Neary at the site of one of the boundary plaques

The Heritage Walkers on their way to St Brigids well near Ballycallan

blown away by the creativity of the young people taking part in this competition. They’re seeing potential where others might not see it, and transforming it into something so stylish and unique. And what makes Relove Fashion so special is that it’s not just about sewing and sustainability, it’s also about growing your confidence and creativity, and finding your people!”

Hugh Coughlan, Regional Waste Co-Ordinator “The Regional Waste Management Planning Offices with funding from the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment are delighted to support Relove Fashion in its 8th year. The impact and engagement the competition continues to generate across schools, youth groups and communities nationwide has

been fantastic to witness. The aims and objectives of the competition very much align with National & Local Government Policy ” Arran Murphy, Rediscover Fashion Programme Manager at the Rediscovery Centre, added: “Relove Fashion is so much more than a competition. It has grown into an exciting, inclusive platform for the next generation of young designers, creators and thinkers to engage with the issues of fast fashion and find alternative routes, exploring creative reuse, repair and repurposing skills, to pave the way to a more sustainable fashion future.”

The competition is open to young people aged 12-19 in schools, youth groups and individuals. Teachers and youth group leaders will also receive free lesson plans, activities and resources to help develop creative and practical skills.

Young people, teachers, and youth group leaders are invited to register their interest now. Those who register their interest before 30th September have the chance of winning a sewing machine. All who enter can receive a free bag of unwanted textiles from participating charity shops in collaboration with Charity Retail Ireland to upcycle.

Register your interest now on relovefashion.ie! Schools and groups have the chance to win a free sewing machine if they register their interest before 30th September.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Cuffesgrange Bi-Centenary Priests of the diocese who served in Cuffesgrange in the past.

L to R: Fr. Martin Delaney, Monsignor Dan Carroll, Fr. Mark Condon

Parish Priest Fr. Willie Hennessy welcomes the congregation

Photographs

by Conor Gleeson and Derek Dooley An historic milestone was celebrated by local clergy and parishioners on Saturday 22nd August, as The Church of the Holy Cross in Cuffesgrange marked 200 years in existence. Chief celebrant for the Mass of thanksgiving was Bishop Ger Nash along with Fr. Willie Hennessy P.P. The concelebrants were Monsignor Dan Carroll, Fr. Martin Delaney, Fr. Mark Condon and Fr. Tony O'Connor, a native of Cuffesgrange. A large congregation of parishioners filled the church for liturgy which was greatly enhanced by beautiful singing and music from the parish choir.

In his homily, Bishop Nash recognized the richness of the past, the role of clergy and the laity, and hope for the future.

A Different World “This Church was opened, consecrated and blessed in 1826 and no doubt the story of this place changed rapidly over the years that followed. 200 years later, much is changed and we live in a world which would be unrecognizable to the people of 1826, the first people that gathered in here on that first day,” said the Bishop.

Generosity of Parishioners Bishop Nash went on to say: “Like many Irish rural parishes, lay involvement in the life of this church and of the parish is generous, with great people volunteering their time on boards of management, in child safeguarding, financial care of the parish and so on. But the church building is a credit to the dedication and love of priests present and past, sacristans present and past, alter societies, cleaners, maintenance people over many generations and the service of choirs and the enthusiastic service of servers many of whom from the present but many of you who served mass here over the years.”

The core of our belief “Today as we mark 200 years

The richness of the p hope for the future-B Left. Sacristan, John Sullivan with Tom O’Shea

of service in this church, we can be reassured that the church has a future in this country and worldwide.

However, that future must go beyond the outward form of the church and rediscover its core, and the core of our belief of an endo church is the presence of Jesus Christ”,continued Bishop Ger .

A New Centenary Begins “If we in our time make ourselves pilgrims of hope, nurturing the community, showing commitment to people of the parish and especially to the young, then we can

be assured that this church will stand the test of time and will still be here to mark its 3rd centenary 100 years from now.” After the celebration of mass parishioners and guests adjourned to the adjacent Churchill N.S. for refreshments where a special bicentenary cake was blessed

by Bishop Nash.

Relic of the True Cross On Saturday 12th of September at the 7.30 pm Mass in Cuffesgrange the congregation celebrated the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. The celebration of this feast is another part of our

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Cuffesgrange Bi-Centenary Choir Director Emer O’Shea leads the singing

its transformation from the earliest times up to the present day.

There is a beautiful section on the stained-glass windows explaining their symbolism and meaning along with details on the Bell Tower, Church Plate, the Church gates and a list of Parish Priests and Curates who served in the parish from the 1600’s up to the present day.

The ooklet is available at Price €15. Payment by cash or Revolut and as there is a limited amount printed, copies can be pre-ordered by contacting Derek Dooley directly on 087-9384242 or derekdooley1@gmail.com

past gives Bishop Nash Bi-Centenary Celebrations of Cuffesgrange Church which is named after the Holy Cross.

The church was fortunate on that night to have, on loan, a relic of the True Cross for Veneration and Blessing. This is a splinter from the Cross that Jesus was crucified on which is encased in a wooden cross.

History Booklet of Church of the Holy Cross A brief history of the Church of the Holy Cross has been written by Derek Dooley to mark the bicentenary of the church. This beautiful, full colour, 64-page booklet traces the history of the church and

Parishioners celebrate after the ceremony in Churchill NS

Booklet author Derek Dooley

Bishop Ger Nash

Cuffesgrange native Fr. Tony O’Connor Concelebrates the mass

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Stress management and a dead cow!

Stress is a killer. We all know that. Folks who smoke 20 fags a day know full well that stress is the real killer, not nicotine. Men who drink six pints of porter every night know bloody well that stress is the killer, not alcohol. But seriously, we daren’t ignore nicotine and alcohol, two other major causes of premature deaths.

Regarding stress, I’m reading lately about a new form of stress: Tech-Stress brought on under the massive explosion in technology, the avalanche of apps and the advancement of AI in our lives. Although I am “digitally impaired” to quote one of my children I don’t unduly suffer from Tech-Stress. Well not much.

If something goes wrong with my phone I simply call the wife (who’s far more techsavvy than me). If she can’t solve it, I call my daughter in Lisbon and if she can’t

solve it I call the phone every goddam name under the sun.

Doesn’t solve anything but at least I let off steam which helps diffuse the Tech-Stress somewhat.

After that, if my phone issue is still not sorted I pop down to Michelle and Diane in Phone Server on High St who are always so obliging and resolve my issue. If it’s my PC I call John, equally obliging, who sorts me out and dissolves any stress.

In the meantime, a young lady was giving a seminar on ‘Stress Management’. She held up a glass of water in her hand. “How heavy is this glass of water?” she inquired.

Answers varied. “The actual weight doesn’t matter”, she replied, “It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, that’s not a problem.

If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my arm. If I hold it for a day I may need hospitalisation.

“In each case it’s the same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.

And that’s the way with stress.

If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, the burdens become increasingly heavy, we won’t be able to carry on. As with the glass of water, we have to put it down for a while and rest before holding it again. When we’re refreshed, we can carry on with the burden. So, as early in the evening as you can, put your burdens down.

Don’t carry them through the evening and into the night.

Pick them up tomorrow.”

Following are a few tips to help lower your blood pressure and manage your stress: *Accept the fact that some days you’re the pigeon, and some days you’re the statue. *Always keep your words soft and sweet, in case you have to eat them. * Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time,

otherwise you won’t have a leg to stand on . * Since it’s the early worm that gets caught by the bird, sleep late. * The second mouse gets the cheese/ * Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once!

the animal’s body.”

As an example, he stuck his finger in the butt of the cow, withdrew it, and stuck his finger in his mouth.

“Go

Studying can be stressful. First-year students in a veterinary college were attending their first anatomy class involving a dead cow. The professor started by telling them: “In veterinary medicine it is necessary to have two important qualities: the first is that you should not be disgusted by anything involving

ahead and do the same thing,” he told his students.

The students squirmed, hesitated but eventually took turns sticking a finger in the butt of the dead cow and sucking on it. When everyone finished, the professor looked at them and said: “The second most important quality is observation. I stuck in my middle finger and sucked on my index finger”.

Several of the students threw up. A few fainted.

Waterford Hospice say thanks to Kilkenny supporters This week, members of the O’Donnell family from Threecastles , travelled to the Dunmore Wing of University Hospital Waterford, where they presented a cheque of €8,500 to the Waterford Hospice Movement.

The money was raised from a coffee morning which was organised and run by friends of Siobhán O’Donnell, and will go towards the Oak Ward. Eileen Morrissey thanked all who helped and supported the coffee morning, saying the response was incredible.

Eileen also thanked the Kilkenny Observer newspaper for the publicity given to the worthy cause. The Kilkenny contingent also donated €600 to the Dungarvan Lady knitters to help them to continue crocheting their beautiful blankets for patients of The Oak Ward.

Sheila Quinn, Communications and fundraising Manager at Waterford Hospice thanked Siobhán’s family and friends for the most generous donation.

Pictured at the handing over of the cheque to the Waterford Hospice Movement. Included are members of The O’Donnell family- Shem, Kay, Martin and Amy. Also included are friends who were involved in running the coffee morning, Marie Boyd, Catherine Davis,Anne Crotty and Eileen Morrissey. Representing Waterford Hospice /Oak Ward are Margaret Phelan and Euphrasia Walsh

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Bishop of Ossory A magnificent day was had in Kilkenny last Sunday, as Ger Nash was installed as Bishop of Ossory. St Marys Cathedral on James’s Street was packed to capacity, with people from Ferns, Clare Kilkenny, and many other counties..

The attendance included ArchbishopEamon Martin, Archbishop Dermot Farrell, Archbishop Kieran O'Reilly, Bishop Denis Nulty, Bishop Niall Coll and Monsignor Patrick Zay Han, as well as priests and parishioners from all parishes of Ossory.

The principal celebrant was Bishop Nash. Originally From Tulla in Co Clare, he was ordained a priest in 1991. Fr Dermot Ryan, Administrator at St Mary’s Cathedral welcomed the Bishop to the Cathedral and asked that God would grant the new Bishop grace to serve the church in love, humility and truth. The Bishops sisters- Mags and Teresa were in attendance as were many of his extended family and friends. Priests and parishioners from Ferns were also in attendance. Representing Kilkenny County Council was chairman Joe Malone , and Deputy Mayor Cllr John Coonan. His Holiness PopeLeo X1V appointed Bishop Ger Nash as Bishop of Ossory on July 29 2026. The principal celebrant and homilist at the installation was Bishop Nash . Since Bishop Nash is already a bishopappointed as Bishop of Ferns

by Pope Francis in 2021- he was installed rather than ordained. Significantly, Sundays installation liturgy also marked the moment when the Diocese of Ossory and the Diocese of Ferns were united ‘in persona episcopi’- in the person of the Bishop. The theme of the Bishops homily was Forgiveness. It was a spectacular occasion with musicians and choirs adding greatly to the occasion.

The Kilkenny Observer was in attendance as Bishop Nash was installed as the 97th Bishop Of Ossory, and will carry a full report and photos next week.

Jim Rohan, Aghaviller, reads a prayer of the faithful

St Mary’s Cathedral , Kilkenny at the Installation of Ger Nash as Bishop of Ossory

Bishop Ger is installed as Bishop of Ossory

Youth Helpers to the Sick on the Ossory Lourdes Pilgrimage 2026. L to R: Evan Kwong, Patrick McDonnell, Cian Ormond , Gloria Kolodziej, Derek Dooley (Ossory Lourdes Youth Director)

Photos By Pat Shortall Bishops and priests join Bishop Nash for the Liturgy of the Eucharist

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Mud, music, mayhem and flower power My son, Jack, got me an Electric Picnic ticket. Always up for adventure, I embraced the challenge!

It was a fascinating weekend in so many ways and all roads were leading to this musical mecca of the moment. A tribal gathering of the good, the bad and the inbetweeners; everyone, regardless of age, aspiring to be the best disinhibited version of themselves for a while.

Herds of folk. Wellies, bellies, buttocks, boobs and oceans of fake tan! People wearing whatever they liked or in some cases not wearing enough!

In a world of conformity and uniformity there was a sudden tumultuous explosion of rampant individuality.

All manner of hippie style, fashions and colours. The cheap and cheerful mingling with the Hunter boots and Barbour jackets; the pink gins and tonics with the Red Bull!

The eco-chic tartan rugs and picnic baskets alongside the overpriced, deep-fried chicken

and chips. Lots of drink and the ever-present, ubiquitous waft of marijuana.

There was also lots of deep, squelching, boggy mud.

Imagine a sea of humanity slipping, skidding, sliding and getting sucked down; stuck trolleys and overloaded wheelbarrows full of stuff, simply abandoned. Inundated tents, damp sleeping bags and clothes wrung out… not to mention those who were “strung out”! Floods and mud ritually initiated the sea of brave, embattled wayfarers.

Creative artworks filled the fairy-lit woods, political discussions, health talks and food demos happened in striped, circus-like marquees and all genres of music, everywhere. Old and young trad artists, funk, indie, rock, reggae and thumping disco beat with flashing lights. Sweaty dancing and undulating, flailing crowds were all doing their thing, making their moves and shapes, under the full moon

in Virgo! A sea of humming humanity moving as if there was no tomorrow, all making the best of the wet, present moment! A great celebration of breath and aliveness against a backdrop of a darkening, cloudy, rain-threatening night sky. Symbolic of where we all are on the planet right now.

A great mingling of contentment and confusion.

Some revellers, very chilled and relaxed; some, selfconsciously experimenting with egos and images, young and insecure, and the yet-tobe-born to their real selves… all wanting to have fun and obsessively capturing these carefully edited, laughter-filled moments on selfies.

It’s a rite of passage for youngsters and it got me wondering about my own youth in 1970s England, at university. I was a “real” hippie as opposed to a weekend one.

I wore my colourful clothes, henna hair, patchouli oil and love-beads all the time, not just now and then, and hitch-hiked

every day, luckily without incident.

In the 1960s and 70s, in the shadow of nuclear war and Vietnam, real Flower Power hippies were a counterculture, anti-establishment and an international movement which believed in “Free Love”, “Peace Not War”, anti-racism, women’s rights, civil rights, ban the bomb and so much more. It

“Somehow the best memories survive the worst weather

was a time reflected in the student protests and the music, think Bob Dylan, “Blowing In The Wind” and “The Times They Are A-Changin’” and Joan Baez, “We Shall Overcome”.

We were ready and hoping to embrace “real” deep societal change, for something cosmically bigger than any of us individuals. It was a time of hope and flowering. Some looked for radical change of consciousness through spirituality, meditation, yoga and New Age therapies; some looked for change through psychedelics and drugs. Many went to India or San Francisco or back to the land to live communally and drop out of the so-called “rat race”.

From the 1980s and 90s, it all changed. Materialism, profits, rampant commercialism and over-exploitation of resources increased. Men cut their long hair, tie-dye dungarees became haute couture and fast fashion!

People gave up connecting with their hearts, stopped looking into each other’s eyes

and started looking at screens.

The internet and social media landed. Greed and lies flourished.

Remember, the hippie generation was the first to see the photo of our beloved blue planet Mother Earth, Gaia, spinning in a vast universe. We realised our interconnectedness and green politics and environmental movements took root. Change didn’t happen on the grand scale we’d imagined; but some of the seeds we planted flowered; yoga, meditation, energy healing, wholefoods etc became mainstream.

Let’s look forward and embrace the hippie values of love and peace, mindfulness, importance of community and take time to breathe in the ever-present Oneness of Creation and never forget: the power of love is stronger than the love of power.

Listen to: Joni Mitchell “Woodstock” www.judithashton.com

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Opinion

The “Busiest Street in Town” Part four

Upper Bridge Street today has none of the shops or businesses that Seamus O Brien remembered

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Concluding the story of Callan (with a special focus on Upper Bridge Street) in Seamus O’ Brien’ s youth.

Parts one, two and three can be read on the Observer website In number twenty-six Upper Bridge Street lived a Mrs. Shelly and her son, Jack.

Mrs. Shelly’s maiden name was Hoban and she was a direct relative of the man who designed the White House in Washington DC. Christy and Peg Cunningham opened a pub in the building, a business that Michael and Ann Cun-

ningham later took over and ran with equal success.

Horse drawn carriages could be hired at the stabling and livery establishment, whether for funerals or essential journeys, or recreational purposes.

With mechanization, a motorcar hackney business began to flourish as Seamus grew into his teens.

James and Mary O’ Mahoney’ s butcher shop had all the bloodied hunks of meat displayed prominently, both in their windows, which had no glass, and hanging from hooks outside the entrance to their premises. Pigs’ heads and sheep’s heads abounded, long lines of chickens with their heads still attached, and occasionally rabbits, whenever poachers or wayward youngsters supplied these.

At that time, butchers

West Street in Seamus O Briens childhood

proudly flaunted their meaty bits and pieces, with no need for fancy wrappings or tactful concealment of the butchering process. The eyes of the livestock remained in their sockets, staring at you from the side of the street as you passed.

To get around the problem posed by the absence of glass in the windows O’Mahony’s had wooden shutters that they closed after business hours.

Tommy Kearney of Green Lane delivered meat for O’ Mahoney’s in a sidecar to people in the surrounding countryside, taking orders for the following week from customers as he called to each household. This was a popular service, as many people lacked transport (horses and donkeys were expensive enough to keep) to get into

town.

Two bakeries operated, and the aroma of newly baked bread was better than any appetizer for locals, especially after a hard day’s work when your stomach was rumbling.

Dunne’s' ran one bakery, and the Canavans, a gifted family of bakers, had established the one beside it.

The Canavans delivered bread to people in the district by horse and cart. The cart was equipped with a specially designed hinged box that contained a selection of rustics, loaves, and “ducks” for their loyal customers.

Mr. Jones, the fishmonger and green grocer would also ensure that you didn’t starve.

His wife was a teacher in Windgap.

Not that there was much chance of starving in 1920s

Looking down Green Street 1940s

Callan. And if you had a sweet tooth then this was the street to be in…it had no less than three confectioners.

Margaret O’ Keeffe was a big hit with the kids. She stocked every known brand of sweet: “Rainbows” at twelve a penny; Peggy’s Leg at one shilling and two pence each, “Half-time Jimmy”- a twelve squared toffee bar, and minerals with different flavours such as lemon, orange, strawberry and raspberry. The bottles were three pence each and sported a notice cautioning: “Drink it here and leave the bottle”.

Margaret married carpenter Tom Maher of Kilsheelan, who, upon Margaret’s death, married Dick Fennelly’s sister, Kitty. He added an ice cream parlour to the premises. Bridie Townsend set up a confectionary at number twenty-three

and also kept boarders. She married Johnny Tyrell of Ballylarkin, who would prove one of the LDF’s most committed and colourful recruits during the Emergency.

Kate Maher and her sister ran the smallest of the confectionaries. The sisters proudly displayed their name in Irish over the door: “O Meachair.”

Their brother Jim lived with them for a while. He had lost a leg fighting in the War of Independence and had to get around with the aid of a stick.

Next to Kate’s premises was Mick Joyce’s newsagents shop.

Mick Joyce was a pillar of the local community. A born businessman, he also managed an insurance agency and acted as an agent for the Cunard and White Shipping Lane. He was kept busy, with so many young men and women of the district opting to emigrate when their economic fortunes took a turn for the worst.

Mick was a lifelong hurling and football fan and appeared in a rare photograph of a GAA match… standing just inches from the famed Michael Collins.

So Upper Bridge Street in Seamus O’ Brien youth and childhood was, one might say, a microcosm of the Irish Celtic Tiger economy that lay far in the future.

A source of great comfort to Callan men in those far-off misty monochrome days was the fact that the seven pubs in Upper Bridge Street doubled as groceries, so they had a perfect excuse to be in the pub.

They might tell their wives; quite truthfully, that they were dropping in buy a head of cabbage or a loaf of bread…and could then relax over a pint or two or a “ball of malt.”

Seamus’s friend and fellow community activist Sean Holden sighed when I broached this captivating aspect of Callan’s fading heritage.

He intoned sadly: “Excuses like that don’t wash anymore.

Women can’t be fooled as easily as that now. The town has changed so much, those people from back then wouldn’t recognise it. Different times, boy, different times!”

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Health & Beauty

Running at your own pace

FITNESS The hardest part of taking up running is often knowing how much to do at the start. Go too hard and it can quickly become tiring, uncomfortable and easy to give up. A slower start usually works better.

A mix of walking and jogging is a good place to begin. You might run for a minute or two, walk until your breathing settles, then run again. Over a few weeks, the running sections can get longer and the walking breaks shorter.

No need to rush that process.

Pace doesn’t matter much in the beginning. The aim is to get used to moving regularly and to finish a run feeling like you could have done a little more.

If every session leaves you exhausted or sore for days, you are probably pushing too hard.

You don’t need the most expensive pair of runners in the shop, but they should feel comfortable and suit the way you run. Beyond that, keep your clothing simple and dress for the weather.

Aleksander Dumała

WELLBEING

Your muscles, joints and tendons need time to recover, especially when running is new to you. Two or three runs a week can be enough to build fitness without overdoing it. That gives your body time to adapt and confidence to grow.

It also helps to stop treating every run like a test. Watches and apps can be useful, but they can make us focus too much on pace, distance and personal bests. Some days will feel easy and others will feel heavy - that is normal.

A short walk before you start can help you warm up, and slowing down for a few minutes at the end can make the finish feel easier.

The biggest mistake many new runners make is trying to improve too quickly - fitness takes time. The people who stick with running are often the ones who find a pace and routine they can live with.

You don’t have to run fast for it to count. Start small, build gradually and let consistency do the work.

Looking after your gut health HEALTH Gut health has become a much talked-about subject, but looking after it doesn’t have to mean buying expensive supplements or changing everything you eat.

A good place to start is with fibre. Foods such as oats, beans, lentils, fruit, vegetables and wholegrains help keep the digestive system working properly. Variety matters too, so try not to rely on the same few foods every day.

Fermented foods can also be useful. Natural yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut and kimchi all contain live cultures, although not every product on the shelf will have the same amount.

Drinking enough water is just as important, particularly if you are increasing the amount of fibre in your diet. Regular movement can help too. Even a daily walk can support normal digestion and reduce the sluggish feeling that comes from

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sitting for long periods.

Sleep and stress can also affect the gut. Poor sleep, rushed meals and constant stress may leave some people feeling more bloated or uncomfortable. Eating slowly and giving yourself time to digest can make a difference.

Why We Fight: Kim Pollinder

It’s also worth paying attention to what suits you personally. Foods that agree with one person may cause problems for another, so there is little value in following every new food trend.

Persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, blood in the stool or

ongoing changes in bowel habits should always be checked by a doctor.

For most people, gut health comes back to fairly ordinary habits: eat a varied diet, include plenty of fibre, drink water, stay active and give your body time to settle.

Most couples know the feeling of having the same argument more than once. The subject may change, but the frustration, defensiveness and hurt can feel very familiar. In Why We Fight, relationship coach and couples therapist Kim Polinder looks at what is really happening when conflict keeps repeating.

The book takes a practical approach to arguments and relationships. Polinder’s background is unusual: before working as a therapist, she was a tech engineer. She brings some of that problem-solving mindset to the book, asking readers to look beyond the surface issue and find the root cause of a disagreement.

Polinder holds master’s degrees in Clinical Mental Health and Spiritual Psychology, and her work combines therapy, coaching and practical relationship tools.

One of the main ideas is that arguments are rarely only about the thing that starts them. A row over dishes, money, lateness or household jobs may touch on something deeper, such as feeling ignored, unimportant or unsupported. Polinder describes these underlying beliefs as “core wounds” and explains how they can shape the way people react when emotions run high.

The book also looks at attachment styles, childhood patterns and the way people learn to handle conflict. Rather than simply telling couples to communicate better, Polinder offers a step-bystep system for slowing an argument down, recognising triggers and working out what each person is actually trying to say.

There are practical exercises, guided questions and a conflictresolution flowchart designed to be used when familiar arguments begin to surface. The emphasis is not on avoiding disagreement altogether. Polinder’s point is that conflict is part of close relationships; what matters is learning how to deal with it without falling into the same damaging pattern.

Why We Fight is aimed mainly at couples, but much of its advice can also be applied to disagreements with family members, friends and other close relationships.

For anyone who has ever finished an argument wondering how a small issue became such a big one, this book offers a straightforward place to start looking for the answer.

The weekend warrior trap FITNESS If you spend most of your week sitting at a desk or rushing between commitments, it can be tempting to make up for lost time with a big workout at the weekend. But going from very little activity to a long hike, tough gym session or lengthy cycle can leave you sore, exhausted or more prone to injury.

The best approach is to build up gradually. Start at a pace that feels manageable, warm up properly and avoid pushing through sharp pain or extreme fatigue.

A little movement during the week can also help.

Even short walks, light strength work or stretching can prepare your body for more demanding weekend activity.

Recovery matters too.

Give yourself time to rest, rehydrate, eat well and get enough sleep afterwards.

Being active at the weekend is a great habit, but consistency usually beats cramming everything into one or two intense sesMdjaff sions.

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Homes & Gardens

Bamboo in the garden GARDEN NOTES SHVETS production

Planning your new kitchen

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Bamboo can be a useful choice if you want to add height, privacy or a bit of movement to the garden.

It works well along boundaries, beside patios and in larger pots, and its tall stems can help soften fences or create a natural screen.

The main thing to watch is how it grows. Some types spread quickly underground and can become difficult to control, while clump-forming varieties are much easier to manage. In smaller gardens, growing bamboo in a large container is often the safest option.

It prefers moist, well-drained soil and will need regular watering when first planted and during dry spells. You can cut older or crowded stems at ground level to keep the plant looking tidy.

With today being World Bamboo Day, it’s a good reminder that bamboo can be both practical and attractive, provided the right variety is chosen for the space.

Make a dark hallway feel brighter

HOME

HOME HACK Wirestock

Renovating a kitchen can make a huge difference to a home, but it can also turn into an expensive job very quickly.

Before getting carried away with colours, tiles and taps, it is worth sorting out the basics first.

Start by thinking about how you actually use the kitchen.

Is it mainly for cooking, or is it also where people eat, do homework, have a cup of tea or gather when friends call? A kitchen should suit everyday life, not just look good in pho-

tographs.

The layout matters just as much as the style. Moving sinks, cookers and plumbing can add to the cost, so if the current layout works reasonably well, it may be worth keeping the main services where they are. If it doesn’t work, spend time getting the new layout right before ordering anything.

Storage is another big one - it’s easy to underestimate how much space is needed for pots, food, bins and small appliances. Deep drawers are often handier than low cup-

boards, while tall units can make better use of a smaller room.

Lighting is worth planning early too - one ceiling light is rarely enough. Undercabinet lights are useful for food preparation, while softer lighting can make the kitchen feel much more comfortable in the evening.

When choosing worktops and flooring, think about what will be easy to live with.

Some finishes look great in a showroom but need a lot of care. In a busy kitchen, hardwearing and easy-to-clean

Clearing up the autumn garden GARDEN A dark hallway can feel cramped, but a few simple changes can make a big difference. Start with the lighting. One strong ceiling light can feel harsh, so use a mix of wall lights, lamps or picture lights where possible.

Choose pale wall colours, but don’t feel tied to bright white. Soft creams, warm greys and light neutrals can often work better in spaces with little natural light.

Mirrors are useful too, especially when placed opposite a doorway, window or light source. They help bounce light around and make the hallway feel more open.

Try to keep storage neat and shallow so coats, shoes and bags do not take over the space. Closed storage usually looks tidier.

If possible, use similar flooring in the hallway and adjoining rooms to create a better sense of flow. A narrow runner can add warmth without making the space feel smaller.

Most importantly, keep the hallway uncluttered. Clear sightlines make even a small, dark space feel brighter and more welcoming.

Fallen leaves are one of those jobs that keep coming back every autumn. Leave them too long and they soon turn wet, slippery and messy, especially on paths, patios and driveways.

The best way to stay on top of them is to clear them little and often. A rake is usually enough for the lawn, while a stiff brush works well on hard surfaces. If you have a lot of trees, a leaf blower can save time, but there is no need to clear every last leaf from the garden.

Lawns are the main area to watch. A thick layer of wet leaves can block out light and leave the grass looking tired and patchy. Drains should also be kept clear, as leaves can build up quickly after heavy rain.

Rather than throwing everything away, put the leaves to use. They can go on the compost heap or be gathered into bags to make leaf mould.

This breaks down slowly but makes a useful soil improver.

You can also leave some leaves under hedges and shrubs, where they will rot down naturally and provide

cover for insects over winter.

The main thing is to keep the busy parts of the garden tidy without feeling you have

surfaces can be the better choice.

It’s also important to decide early which appliances are staying and which are being replaced. New ovens, hobs or larger fridges may need extra electrical work or ventilation.

Finally, leave some room in the budget for surprises. Older wiring, plumbing problems or uneven floors often only show up once work starts.

A good kitchen doesn’t need to be the most expensive one.

It needs to work well, have enough storage and make everyday life a little easier. zinkevych

to make the whole place spotless. Clear the lawn, paths and drains, and let some of the rest take care of itself.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Urlingford

Urlingford opens the to new opportunities

Urlingford is preparing to welcome jobseekers, employers, education providers and support organisations for a major recruitment and education event designed to create new opportunities for people across North Kilkenny and the surrounding region.

The Multi-Sector Recruitment and Education Event

will take place on Wednesday, 23rd September 2026, from 10am to 12.30pm at the newly refurbished Urlingford Community Centre on Mill Road.

Bringing employment, education, training and support services together under one roof, the event is aimed at anyone looking for work, considering a change

of career, hoping to return to employment or interested in developing new skills and qualifications.

The initiative is being delivered through a collaboration involving Intreo, the Department of Social Protection, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership and Urlingford Town Team, with a strong emphasis on making employment and education opportunities more accessible to people living in rural communities.

One of the main attractions of the morning will be the opportunity for jobseekers to meet employers directly.

With so much recruitment now carried out online, the event will provide a valuable chance for people to step away from application forms and computer screens and have a face-to-face conversation with businesses that are actively seeking staff.

Visitors are encouraged to bring copies of their CVs and use the opportunity to introduce themselves, discuss their previous experience and find out more about vacancies that may suit their skills.

For someone who has been out of the workforce for a period of time, is considering changing direction or simply wants to know what employment opportunities are available locally, the event will provide a useful starting point.

A number of different employment sectors are expected to be represented, reflecting the varied range of businesses and industries operating throughout Kilkenny and neighbouring counties. This means the morning is not being aimed at one particular age group or type of worker, but at people at many different stages of their working lives.

Education and training will be equally important elements of the event.

For some visitors, the next step may not be immediate employment but gaining a qualification, improving an existing skill or exploring an entirely new area of work.

Education and training organisations will therefore be available to provide information on courses, adult education, qualifications and opportunities to upskill.

This combination of recruitment and education is particularly important as the employment market continues to change. New technologies, changing working practices and evolving industries mean that people are increasingly looking at ways to update their skills throughout their careers.

Having employers and education providers in the same venue will allow visitors to explore both sides of that equation – what opportunities are currently

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Urlingford

door

available and what skills or qualifications could help them access further opportunities in the future.

The event also comes at a particularly positive time for Urlingford itself.

A number of developments in recent years have placed a renewed focus on enterprise, remote working, education and community facilities in the town.

Among these is Exit 4 Urlingford, which has transformed the former Bank of Ireland premises on Main Street into a modern remoteworking and enterprise facility.

The development provides an alternative for people who might otherwise face a lengthy daily commute, while also creating a professional environment for remote workers, entrepreneurs and businesses in the heart of Urlingford.

The location is also home to one of South East Technological University's Rural Innovation Hubs, helping to build stronger connections between higher education, innovation, enterprise and rural communities.

Although Exit 4 and the Rural Innovation Hub are separate from the Recruitment and Education Event being held at the Community Centre, together these developments reflect a wider movement within Urlingford

towards creating opportunities locally rather than assuming that employment, education and enterprise must always be accessed in larger urban centres.

The newly refurbished Urlingford Community Centre itself is another important part of that picture. By providing a modern community venue capable of hosting events such as the recruitment morning, the centre can play an increasingly important role in bringing services, organisations and opportunities directly into the town.

Urlingford's location makes it particularly well suited to an event of this nature.

Situated in North Kilkenny and within easy reach of communities in Laois and Tipperary, the town serves a much wider rural population. Organisers hope the event will therefore attract visitors not only from Urlingford itself but from communities throughout the surrounding region.

This regional approach could also benefit participating employers, giving them an opportunity to meet prospective employees from a wider catchment area.

Recruitment can present challenges for businesses, particularly when employers are trying to reach suitable candidates in rural areas.

By bringing employers and potential employees together in one location, the event creates an opportunity for conversations that may not otherwise take place.

A range of support organisations will also be on hand throughout the morning.

Kilkenny LEADER Partnership, Cultúr Migrant Centre and EmployAbility are among the organisations expected to attend, providing advice and information for people who may need additional guidance when entering or returning to employment.

Their presence broadens the event beyond a traditional jobs fair. Visitors will be able to seek information

about the supports that may be available to them, discuss potential barriers to employment and learn about services that could help them move towards work, training or enterprise.

That could be particularly useful for people who have been away from employment for some time and may be unsure about where to begin.

It may also help those considering self-employment, people seeking additional workplace supports or newcomers who want to better understand employment and training opportunities available locally.

The overall aim is to make the morning practical, accessible and worthwhile, whether someone arrives ready to hand a CV directly to an employer or simply wants to explore what options are available.

Employers will also have the chance to showcase their businesses, explain the type of employees they are seeking and speak directly to prospective candidates.

Businesses interested in securing a stand at the event can contact employer@ welfare.ie.

Admission for members of the public is free.

The Multi-Sector Recruitment and Education Event represents another positive development for a town that is increasingly putting employment, enterprise, education and community facilities at the centre of its future.

With a refurbished Community Centre, the growth of Exit 4 and the presence of the SETU Rural Innovation Hub, Urlingford is building infrastructure that can serve not only the town but communities throughout North Kilkenny and beyond.

On September 23rd, that work will come together in a very practical way – by opening the doors and giving people the chance to meet, talk, make connections and perhaps discover the next step in their working or educational lives.

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Food & Drink

Creamy Chicken, Leek & Mustard Pie RECIPE

The ‘forgotten’ Irish pantry

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FOOD

This comforting chicken and leek pie is packed with tender chicken in a creamy mustard sauce and topped with golden puff pastry. It’s a good make-ahead dinner and works well with mashed potatoes, steamed greens or simply on its own.

Serves 4–6 Ingredients • 1 tbsp olive oil • 25g butter • 600g boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces • 2 large leeks, washed and sliced • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 2 tbsp plain flour • 300ml chicken stock • 150ml cream • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard • 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves, or ½ tsp dried thyme • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry • 1 egg, beaten Method • Heat the olive oil and half the butter in a large frying pan over a medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper and cook for five to six minutes until lightly browned.

Transfer to a plate.

• Reduce the heat, add the remaining butter and sliced leeks, and cook gently for six to eight minutes until softened. Add the garlic and thyme and cook for another minute.

• Sprinkle over the flour and stir well. Gradually pour in the chicken stock, stirring continuously so the sauce remains smooth. Add the cream, Dijon mustard and wholegrain mustard, then return the chicken to the pan.

• Simmer gently for five to eight minutes until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Remove from the heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.

• Heat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas 6.

• Spoon the chicken mixture into a pie dish. Lay the puff pastry over the top, trim the edges and press them against the rim to seal. Cut a small slit in the centre to allow steam to escape, then brush the pastry with beaten egg.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the pastry is puffed and deep golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

• Leave to stand for five minutes before serving.

For generations, Irish kitchens were built around a small number of dependable ingredients. Oats, barley, buttermilk, treacle and cabbage were cheap, filling and easy to find.

Many of them have slipped into the background, replaced by convenience foods and newer ingredients, but they still have plenty to offer.

Oats are the obvious place to start. Porridge remains a breakfast staple, but oats can do much more. Toast them with nuts and seeds for home-

made granola, stir them into crumble toppings, or use them to add texture to brown bread.

Blitzed oats can also replace some flour in pancakes and baking.

Once common in soups and stews, barley works just as well in salads, risottos and grain bowls. Cooked until tender and mixed with roasted vegetables, herbs and a sharp dressing, it makes a substantial lunch. Pearl barley is especially useful for thickening soups without needing cream.

Buttermilk is another old favourite that has never really

lost its usefulness. Its slight acidity gives soda bread its lift, but it is equally good in pancakes, scones and marinades.

Chicken soaked in buttermilk before cooking becomes noticeably more tender.

Treacle, meanwhile, brings a deep, almost smoky sweetness that ordinary sugar cannot match. A spoonful can transform brown bread, ginger cake or homemade baked beans. Used sparingly, it also works well in glazes for ham or roasted root vegetables.

Then there is cabbage, one of the most familiar ingredients

in the Irish kitchen and one of the easiest to overlook. Shredded cabbage can be quickly fried with butter, garlic and mustard, roasted in wedges until crisp at the edges, or turned into a sharp slaw with apple and cider vinegar.

These ingredients were once valued because they were practical and that hasn’t changed. They are affordable, versatile and suited to the kind of straightforward cooking that many of us are returning to.

The old Irish pantry may have been simple, but it was never short of good ideas.

Keep it simple: Ottolenghi returns with SIMPLE TOO COOKBOOK Yotam Ottolenghi returns to everyday cooking this September with SIMPLE TOO, the follow-up to his hugely successful 2018 cookbook SIMPLE. Ottolenghi has become one of the most influential food writers of his generation, known for bringing Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours into everyday home cooking. Born in Jerusalem and based in London, he’s also a restaurateur, with his cookbooks helping popularise ingredients such as tahini, sumac and za’atar.

The new book features 135 recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, all designed with busy home cooks in mind. Every recipe can either be made in under 30 minutes, cooked in one pot or prepared ahead.

It’s a familiar Ottolenghi idea - big flavour without unnecessary complication - but this time the recipes have been

shaped around the realities of getting food on the table during a busy week.

The book covers breakfast and brunch, snacks, spreads and soups, meat, fish, vegetarian mains, pasta, sides, salads and desserts. There’s also a useful Fundamentals section devoted to sauces, oils and seasoning mixes that can be made in batches and kept to liven up everyday meals.

Among the recipes already revealed are banana and tahini granola and stuffed Romano peppers, while Ottolenghi has said the emphasis is largely on using familiar ingredients in new ways rather than filling the shopping basket with hard-to-find additions.

For anyone who likes Ottolenghi’s punchy flavours but sometimes finds the ingredient lists or preparation daunting, SIMPLE TOO looks set to be one of his most accessible books yet.

Ottolenghi SIMPLE TOO by Yotam Ottolenghi is published

by Ebury Press.

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GOT AN EVENT, SHOW OR FESTIVAL TO HIGHLIGHT? LET US KNOW CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

What’s On

Your picks for this week

Resident Evil reborn

TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK What to Watch: Everybody Digs Bill Evans stars Anders Danielsen Lie as pianist Bill Evans in Grant Gee’s drama, set after the 1961 death of Scott LaFaro. Grief leaves Evans unable to play, forcing him to confront addiction, tensions and his musical future. Adapted by Mark O’Halloran from Owen Martell’s novel Intermission, the film stars Bill Pullman, Laurie Metcalf, Valene Kane and Barry Ward and won Gee Berlin’s Silver Bear for Best Director.

What to read: Louise O’Neill turns to memoir in A Bigger Life, tracing the aftermath of a long relationship and the choices that followed. At 38, she sets herself a dating experiment that takes her from Ireland to Paris, London and New York, questioning ideas about love, sex, success and settling down. Candid and sharply observed, the book explores heartbreak, desire, reinvention and what it means to want more from life for yourself.

MOVIE Zach Cregger takes on Resident Evil with a new bigscreen reboot that returns Capcom’s survival-horror series to its roots. Austin Abrams stars as Bryan, a medical courier caught in the first hours of a viral outbreak and forced to cross a city rapidly being overrun by infected creatures.

Rather than retelling the story of Leon Kennedy, Claire Redfield or another familiar game character, Cregger’s film follows an original

protagonist. The action runs alongside the events of Resident Evil 2, using the same wider world while keeping Bryan’s story separate. That gives the film room to draw on the games without simply recreating scenes players already know.

Cregger, who directed Barbarian and Weapons, has spoken about wanting to capture the feeling of playing Resident Evil: limited resources, mounting dread and the sense that every new area could contain something worse. Bryan is not a soldier

or trained fighter, which puts the emphasis on survival rather than easy action. The film also leans on practical effects, physical sets and creature work to give its horror a more immediate feel.

Cinematographer Dariusz Wolski, whose credits include Prometheus and The Last Duel, handles the film’s look, bringing extensive genre experience behind camera.

Abrams is joined by Zach Cherry, Kali Reis and Paul Walter Hauser. Cregger cowrote the screenplay with

Shay Hatten, whose credits include Army of the Dead and John Wick: Chapter 4.

Resident Evil has had a long and uneven life on screen.

The first film, starring Milla Jovovich, arrived in 2002 and launched a six-film run that pushed the games towards large-scale action. Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City attempted a closer return to the source in 2021, while Netflix followed with a short-lived live-action series the next year.

Resident Evil 2 opens in cinemas on September 18.

Laura Veirs at Cleere’s LAURA VEIRS WITH KARL BLAU | CLEERE’S | FRI, SEPT 25 | 8.30PM MUSIC Laura Veirs comes to Cleere’s, Kilkenny, tonight (Friday), joined by Karl Blau for a show centred on her latest album, Temple Songs.

The Portland singer-songwriter has built a long career on finely observed songs that draw from folk, indie rock and chamber pop without sitting neatly inside any of them. Her writing is often direct and understated, with images from nature, family life and everyday experience opening into larger ideas about memory, change and loss.

Temple Songs is a particularly personal record.

Veirs wrote, performed, engineered, arranged and produced the album herself in her backyard studio in

Portland. The songs are spare and close-miked, led by nylon-string guitar and voice, with electric guitar and other details used carefully rather than heavily.

That approach fits Cleere’s especially well. For these shows, Veirs is joined by longtime collaborator Karl Blau on electric guitar. Blau has worked with Veirs across recordings and live performances, and the pairing gives the songs room to breathe.

Rather than relying on a fullband sound, the focus is on the writing, the interplay between the two musicians and the small changes in texture from song to song.

Veirs has been releasing music for almost three decades and has worked with Neko Case, k.d. lang, Sufjan

Stevens, Jim James, The Decemberists and Bill Frisell.

She has also built a catalogue that stands apart from those collaborations, marked by a clear melodic sense and a willingness to keep changing shape.

The Cleere’s show offers a chance to hear the new material in a room suited to it.

Songs from Temple Songs are likely to sit alongside older work, with the stripped-back format putting the emphasis on voice, guitar and lyric.

Veirs’ best songs rarely announce themselves with grand gestures. They build through detail, repetition and small melodic turns, making this close, two-person setup a natural way to hear them.

For listeners who value strong songwriting over spec-

tacle, this is one of the more interesting small-room gigs of the month in Kilkenny.

Tickets are €25.

What to stream: Tom Hardy returns as fixer Harry Da Souza as the Harrigan crime family faces fresh threats from rivals and within its own ranks.

Pierce Brosnan, Helen Mirren and Paddy Considine also return for a second season of the London-set crime drama, with old loyalties tested and the family empire pushed towards civil war. MobLand Season 2 premieres on Paramount+ in Ireland tonight (Friday) Sept 18, with new episodes every Friday.

What to listen to: Irish singersongwriter Dave Lofts brings his raw, anthemic folk sound to Set Theatre following a breakthrough run of sold-out shows and major support slots.

Known for emotionally direct songs including “Holy”, “Mary” and “Just A Man”, Lofts pairs big choruses with lyrics rooted in everyday life, love and struggle.

He arrives in Kilkenny with a growing audience and a live set built around songs that have quickly found their crowd.

What to play: Remedy Entertainment returns to its strange, shifting universe with CONTROL Resonant, the sequel to 2019’s Control. This time players take charge of Dylan Faden, exploring a warped Manhattan threatened by a reality-bending cosmic force. The action-RPG expands the series beyond the Oldest House, introducing powerful abilities, close-range combat and larger areas to explore. CONTROL Resonant launches September 24 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC worldwide and GeForce.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA CLUB LOTTO The lotto draw on September 8th did not produce a winner. The numbers drawn were 8, 22, 29. €30 Lucky Dip to Marie Cassin, Eve Brennan, Francis O Carroll, Joe Phelan and Tom Foley. The more you try the luckier you get!

RORY’S MILES 2 MAYO Rory Best and his team are walking 9 marathons in 9 days to raise money for Rory’s Miles 2 Mayo, Cancer Fund for Children. On Wed 16th (approx. time 14.45) they will stop in Clara GAA for refreshments.

If anyone can bring sandwiches, tray bakes or fruit please tell Caroline Clifford (text/call 0872330026).

We are doing a bucket collection on the day (cash please) in Clara. Thank you for your support.

CONCERT NEWS Clara GAA club have announced a Mike Denver, Philomena Begley Concert on December 3rd 2026, in St. Mary’s Cathedral. Tickets (€35) are available at Eventbrite or contact Pam Cummins 087 912 7725.

This promises to be a great night of entertainment for all ages. All monies raised will go towards the Clara GAA Development Fund. Get your tickets now!

U16 HURLING The Clara U16s had a comprehensive 6-16 to 3-11 win over Carrickshock in Clara. The game mirrored the encounter with Kilmacow the week before, when Clara trailed by seven early on and bounced back to win by seventeen points. This time they conceded two early goals and trailed by four but won by fourteen. After Carrickshock had taken a 2-3 to 0-5 early lead Clara outscored them 1-5 to 0-1 for the rest of the half to lead 1-10 to 2-5. The goal had come from Robert Coogan.

In the first eight minutes after halftime the Clara boys scored an unanswered 4-2 to open up a sixteen point lead that was never going to be overturned. This despite playing into the wind. Central to all of this was the performance of Raphael Scanlon. The ball in was holding up nicely in the wind for him and he won loads of possession to cause untold damage. His ball winning ability and quick unselfish hands created numerous opportunities for his teammates, and they joyfully swept them up.

After Jack Byrne had scored a free won by “Rafa” Ger Cody goaled and then Aaron Carrigan took a sumptuous Rafa pass to bury another one. Aaron added a free, goaled again and Ger Cody struck for his second goal shortly thereafter. Carrickshock were visibly stunned and although they shaded the last twenty minutes with the aid of the wind, they were never going to bridge the deficit. Clara kept the scoreboard ticking and even after Carrickshock had converted a late penalty Rory Treacy struck for a sixth goal, which was just reward for some earlier strong running. 6-16 was an impressive tally, especially when one considers that Clara also hit 17 wides as against 7 for the ‘shock men.

Team - Ciaran Gibbons, Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy, Ollie Butler. Matthew Cooke, Sam Corr, Gearóid Meany. Jack Byrne 0-8f, Micheál Meany 0-2.

Robert Coogan 1-1, Dara Leamy 0-2, Rory Treacy 1-0. Aaron Carrigan 2-3, 0-1f, Raphael Scanlon, Ger Cody 2-0. Subs used James McDonald, Eddie Phelan.

In their following match they were brought crashing back down to earth by neighbours Young Ireland’s in Gowran. They conceded a couple of early goals and never recovered. The end result was 7-17 to 3-15.

Team - Ciaran Gibbons, Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy, Ollie Butler. Matthew Cooke, Sam Corr, Gearóid Meany. Jack Byrne 0-8, 0-5f, Micheál Meany 2-0f. Robert Coogan, Rory Treacy 0-1, Dara Leamy 0-3. James McDonald, Aaron Carrigan 1-3, 0-2f, Ger Cody. Subs used Rian Mullally, Eddie Phelan.

JUNIORS BOW OUT The Clara Junior hurlers were knocked out of this year’s championship by Dicksboro in Paulstown on a 3-13 to 1-16 score line. Despite having a man dismissed after 13 minutes the Boro brought a 3-7 to 1-6 lead into halftime. In fact, there were times in that first half that it looked like it was they who had the extra man. Liam Ryan had scored the Clara goal and was Clara’s chief threat in that half.

The Boro padded the lead out to eight points 10 minutes into the new half, but Clara then started chipping away at the lead and actually scored eight of the game’s next nine points. With four minutes remaining there was a solitary point between the

sides, and the game was in the melting pot. But the Boro held their composure and two points by substitute Shane O Brien got them over the line. Clara had given it a good rattle and went down fighting.

Team - Killian Phelan, Paddy Bolger, Zach Lawlor, Paddy Ryan. Hugh Kelly, Conor Cody, Philip Carrigan. Joe Connolly, David Langton 0-1. Joe Power 0-1, Conor O Shea 0-9, 0-4f, 0-2 x 65s, Liam Ryan 1-4.

Sean Carrigan, Tom Ryan, Sean O Shea. Subs used Ciaran Prendergast 0-1, Lester Ryan, Jake Maher.

LGFA Clara won the Intermediate football county final on Sunday in Dunmore at the expense of Thomastown.

This was their second county final win in as many weeks as they had earlier taken the Junior title.

This game was tight for the first 15 minutes, after which the Thomastown girls led three points to two.

But from there to the interval Clara tacked on 1-5 without reply to seize control, the goal arriving just before the break via captain Maria Shortall. 1-7 to 0-3 at the break.

Mary O Connell and Aobha O Gorman extended the Clara lead early in the second half and when Mary then got in for a goal the writing was on the wall for the Southerners. To their credit they scored the next three points, but Clara’s response was again decisive. Mary O Connell poached another point and then substitute Keara Ryan hit for 1-1 to quench any hopes of a comeback. Thomastown again hit three points in a row, but Niamh Ward closed out the scoring with a free. 3-12 to 0-9 was how it finished.

Team - Jane Flynn, Sarah-Jane Codd, Mia Murphy, Katie Ryan. Aisling Nolan, Ailbhe Galwey, Ónagh Fitzgerald. Niamh Ward 0-2f, Aobha O Gorman 0-3, 0-1f. Gráinne Glynn 0-1, Claire Nolan 0-1, Caragh Brennan. Maria Shortall 1-0, Mary O Connell 1-3, Annie Dunne 0-1. Subs used Keara Ryan 1-1, Kyla Byrne, Millie Molloy, Lucy Coomey, Ceola Leamy.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS A VERY BUSY WEEKEND Last weekend proved a very busy one for the O’Loughlin Gaels club as teams and players from Under-6 to Under 12 and every age group in between took part in a number of different blitzes.

First up were the youngest players in the club, the Under-6’s and Under-7’s when over 420 boys attended O’Loughlin Gaels annual blitz in St. John’s Park on Saturday. The blitz began with the big parade of all the teams and coaches led by a piper and marching behind their club banners and this was followed by the games themselves. It proved a highly successful and enjoyable day for everyone.

Thanks to all the team mentors, parents and volunteers for making it all possible.

Also, in action on Saturday, away from home were the O’Loughlin Gaels Under-8’s and Under-11’s. The Under-8 boys took part in the well run Castlecomer

O’Loughlin Gaels Social Camogie team which took part in its first National Blitz last weekend.

blitz. They battled hard in five hugely competitive games. Thanks to the hosts and well done to the boys and coaches. O’Loughlin’s Under-11 future stars travelled to Waterford to take part in the Mount Sion Paddy Sheridan festival of hurling blitz.

It was a great experience for the boys’, and they put on a great show and represented their club with pride.

On Sunday the club hosted their own Under-12 Billy O’Sullivan Memorial Tournament. Once again, the day began with a parade of teams behind their club banners with a piper leading the way once more.

Then the games began. It proved to be a fantastic day of teamwork, determination, skill and plenty of smiles, with the boys giving it their all and making some great memories along the way!

A huge thank you to all the visiting clubs, Mooncoin, Na Fianna, Valley Rovers, Clarinbridge, Piltown, Na Piarsigh, Blackwater and Ballygunner and to the parents, coaches, referees and volunteers who helped make the day such a success. Well, done to all the players who did themselves and their clubs proud.

SOCIAL CAMOGIE O’Loughlin Gaels recently formed Social Camogie team took part in their first National Blitz with

teams from across Ireland gathering at Páirc Sheamuis Stiofáin on the Kells Road. A huge thank you to James Stephens GAA Club for a fantastically run event. Everyone had a brilliant day, and the O’Loughlin’s team are already looking forward to the next one. Anyone who fancies giving Social Camogie a go can join in for training this Thursday at 7:30pm in O’Loughlin Gaels GAA Club. No pressure, just plenty of fun, craic and a great social atmosphere! Contact Ciara on 086 378 5969 for details.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated September 8th. The numbers drawn were 2, 14, 15 and 22. The bonus number was 24. Play Now at www.oloughlingsels.com Winners of the Promotors Draw were 1. Rosie Hayes c/o P Greene. 2. Nuala Bryan c/o D O’Driscoll. 3.

Liam Murphy c/o B Maher. 4. Luke Greene c/o P Greene. 5. Paul Wall c/o N Tyrrell. 6. Marie O’Neill c/o B Maher. 7. Claire Breslin c/o Ml Doran. 8. Catherine Murphy c/o Online. 9. Oliva O’Connell c/o Online.

10. Michael Holohan c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

JUNIOR HURLERS QUALIFY FOR THE SEMIFINAL

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 hurlers who participated in the Billy O’Sullivan Memorial Tournament on Sunday last.

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

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Community & GAA Notes Well, done to the O’Loughlin Gaels Junior hurlers who defeated James Stephens by 1-23 to 1-14 in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior Hurling Championship (Section B) to qualify for the semi-final.

O’Loughlin’s controlled the game from the start and by the interval had built up a 1-15 to 1-7 lead, the goal coming from Kevin Murphy. The second half followed the same pattern, and the St. John’s Park based team finished convincing winners thanks to a good team performance. They will play Erin’s Own in the semi-final. The winning team and scorers were Jamie Malone, Barry Lawlor, Jamie Young, Jack Lawlor, Evan Walsh, Matthew Russell, Ruaidhrí Galwey, Oisín Murphy, Alex Molloy, Alex Sheridan 0-10 (0-6 frees), Paddy Butler 0-1, Eoghan O’Brien 0-1, Kevin Murphy 1-6, Conor Holohan, Jack Sheridan 0-2. Subs: Sam Johnston 0-2, Adam Maher, Luke Mc Donald.

FRESHFORD DARTS EXHIBITION A darts exhibition will be held in Farrell’s bar on Saturday 10th October with famous dart players John Henderson and Richard Burnett in attendance. The chosen charity this year is Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. You can go along to watch the darts or if you would like to take them on in a game, please put your name in. All support and donations would be greatly appreciated for this very worthy cause Please put the date in your diary.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Mary Devlin Ballyragget and all her family on the unexpected passing of Martin (Guzzy) Devlin late of Grove Terrace Ballyragget last week. Both the deceased and his family were widely known and respected in this area.

Funeral mass took place in St Patrick’s church Ballyragget followed by burial in St. Finnans cemetery Ballyragget.

HOLYCROSS A bus travelled from Freshford to Holycross on Saturday last for a special Mass and prayers. A good crowd from the Freshford area made the journey, enjoying the opportunity to come together in prayer and reflection. The visit provided a meaningful occasion for the local community to share in the religious ceremony and spend time together.

GAA St Lachtains intermediate hurlers retained their intermediate status for next season when they defeated St Martins in the first round of the championship on Sunday morning last at Castlecomer on a scoreline of 0-22 to 0-12. They will play the Rower in the quarter final next weekend. Please check social media page for fixtures.

The u 14 boys lost out to John Locks in Callan last week in the 5th round of the league/championship on a score of 6-11 to 3-17. They play Tullogher Rosbercon in the first round of the roinn B Championship on Sunday morning next at 11am in Tullogher.

The minor hurlers came from behind at half time to beat Clara by 2-16 to 1-13 in their 4thround of the league /championship in Clara.

LOTTO There was no jackpot winner of the weekly lotto.

The lucky dip winners were. Susan O Hanlon (€50) Seanie Hickey and Selena Grant (€25 each). Tickets are €2 and can be purchased online on Clubzap or you can get your paper ticket from the ticket sellers and the club thank all for their continued support.

NEW BABY Congratulations to Zoe Crosbie and her partner Karl on the birth last week of their baby daughter.

FRESHFORD FORÓIGE YOUTH CLUB Freshford Foróige Youth Club is currently looking for adult volunteers to help support its weekly youth activities. The club provides a welcoming and enjoyable environment where young people can meet friends, take part in fun activities and develop new skills.

Weekly meetings are open to all young people aged between 12 and 17, with new members always very welcome. The club relies on the support and enthusiasm of volunteers to help ensure that the meetings continue to provide a safe, positive and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Anyone interested in becoming an adult volunteer, or young people looking for further information about joining, can contact Aidan Gleeson on 086 067 4485 or by email at aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie.

Barry Flynn can also be contacted on 087 458 115.

SOCCER NEWS Freshford Town had just one team in action in the underage section at the weekend. The U15 boys were beaten by Callan Utd on a 1-0 scoreline.

The u14 boys were beaten in their first game recently by Highview at home on a 3-2 scoreline with

James Stephens Social Comogie.

the Freshford goals coming from Callum Gleeson and Tom Dalton.

The u 12 boys were defeated by Evergreen in their first outing that finished Evergreen 4-Freshford Town 3. Robbie Geraghty scored twice for Freshford side and Fionn O’Flaherty got the third one.

The club have also entered a junior team for this season, and they play their first game of the season in the junior cup competition next weekend Registration is now being taken, and you can contact the committee re same or go online and register. The junior side have a new manager Micheal Brophy and his management team, and they are wished all the best for the forthcoming season. Training takes place each Friday evening and new members are very welcome and anyone interested in signing up can come along to the field on Friday evening or contact the club secretary or the manager.

The astro turf pitch is now open for bookings through sportskey online portal or Contact committee member or social media page for more details.

PARISH NEWS Masses each Tuesday and Friday morning in St Lachtain’s church at 9.30am (unless otherwise stated) Mass on Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church every third Saturday evening.

WEBCAM The mass webcam has been installed by Church Media Ireland. All masses in Lachtain’s church will be livestreamed through the webcam at Https// church media.ie/st-lachtains-church-frffreshford.

OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941.

RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio.

NEWSLETTER The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla.

VISITS Fr. Mark is happy to visit the sick and if you would like to receive a visit from Fr. Mark, you can contact him by phone or through the parish office.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4pm and is a welcoming hub in the village. They’re always happy to see more people on both sides of the counter, so why not drop in to support your local café, meet a friend, enjoy a chat, and savour some delicious homemade food? Along with great refreshments, The Loop hosts a variety of community activities that bring neighbours together. The café is also seeking volunteers to help keep these services thriving. If you’re interested in getting involved, please call

056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon.

MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB INTERMEDIATE HURLING LEAGUE FINAL The Intermediate hurlers took on Dunnamaggin in the final of the Michael Lyng Motors hurling league. Played in ideal conditions, Dunnamaggin were first to settle and had two points on the board before Tadhg O’ Dwyer registered our first point in the 4th minute. Two more points from the fleet footed Ed Lauhoff, in the 7th. minute, and a well taken goal by Willie Spencer on 8 minutes, following a well worked move from Eoin Guilfoyle, established a lead for the Village at 1-03 to 0-02.

Over the next twelve minutes the Village stretched the lead through points from Ed McDermott (14th), 4 pointed frees from the very reliable Tadhg O’ Dwyer, and a point from Sean Deely to which Dunnamaggin replied with a point from play and two pointed frees to leave the score at 1-09 to 0-05 after 22 minutes. From here to half time Tadhg O’ Dwyer added a further 3 points (all frees) and a point from the hard-working Oisin Bateman while Dunnamaggin added four from play and one ’65 to leave the half time score at James Stephens 1-13, Dunnamaggin 0-11. There was some confusion over the actual score as the referee had to alert the scoreboard on two occasions during the first half to correct the displayed score. On the resumption, Dunnamaggin were again first to register a score and had added three points before Oisin Bateman and Eoin Guilfoyle replied with a point each after 6 minutes. Dunnamaggin added two points before Ed McDermott and Stephen Manogue added two for the Village and Eoin Guilfoyle, following a weaving run on goal, raised a green flag to leave the score at 2-17 to 0-16 after 15 minutes. From here to the end Dunnamaggin. added two pointed frees and five from play to which the Village replied with points from Sean Deely (18th), Tadhg O’ Dwyer, 2 pointed frees (21st, 25th) and one from play (27th min.). The Village now had a 5 point lead, with the end in sight, when they conceded a penalty which was brilliantly saved by Sean Manogue. One further point from Dunnamaggin and one from Luke Scanlon were the last scores to give the Village victory on a scoreline of 2-23 to 0-24.

The focus now switches to championship and, we have been drawn to play Barrow Rangers in the quarter final which is fixed for Sunday 20th at 12:00 in Clara.

JUNIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP Q FINAL Our Junior hurlers took on neighbours O’ Loughlin Gaels in the section B quarter final of the Junior championship in Pairc Lachtain (Freshford). O’

Loughlins had registered 4 points before Conor McEvoy opened the James Stephens account with a pointed, long range, free in the 4th. minute. A further 6 points from the O’ Loughlins to which the Village replied with points from Paddy Kehoe (8th min), Bill McDermott (11th) and Conor McEvoy (12th & 15th (f)) had the score at James Stephens 0-05, OLG 0-10 midway through the first half. The gap was narrowed when Fionn Cody fought hard to win the ball and finish superbly to the net but O’ Loughlins replied quickly with a point and a goal to consolidate their lead with 10 minutes remaining. A further 3 points from O’ Loughlins and two from Conor McEvoy brought us to the half time break with the scores at James Stephens 1-07, O’ Loughlins 1-15.

Goalkeeper Billy O’ Sullivan, who had been injured in the first half, was replaced by Daniel Power at the start of the second half. Two pointed frees from the reliable Conor McEvoy opened the Village scoring but a sequence of 4 points for O’ Loughlins stretched the lead to 10 points after 15 minutes and from here to the end O’ Loughlins added a further 4 points to which the Village replied with 5 through Paddy Kehoe (44th), 3 Conor McEvoy frees (46th,50th, 59th) and Ross Whelan (52nd). The final score was James Stephens 1-14, O’ Loughlin Gaels 1-23.

U-16 “A” LEAGUE The U-16 “A” hurlers fell to a 2nd half scoring surge by a determined O’Loughlin Gaels team in their 5th round league fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Mhic Stiofan.

Both clubs opened brightly with goals in the early minutes and swapped the lead on four occasions in an all action highly competitive first half, which ended level at 2-09 to 3-06 at the break. The Village goals came from Jim Clune in the 5th minute and a solo run through the O’Loughlin’s back line by Brion Walsh in the 14th minute. Within minutes of the restart ‘The Gaels displayed their intent attacking the James Stephens defence and forcing a full stretch save from goalkeeper Michael Phelan but the sliothar was finished to the net from a goalmouth scramble for their 4th goal. By the 10th minute the ‘Gaels had stretched their lead to 4-10 to 2-11.

Consolidating their position a solid defence smothered many promising attacks as the Village went in search of a game changing goal. Wing forward Jeffrey Cleere did shoot over two points from play and Michael Dorney added three points from frees but it was not enough to counter the impressive scoring rate of the ‘Gaels forwards who secured victory with a final score of 4-13 to 3-14. For James Stephens Michael Phelan, Conor O’Hara, Paddy McGuire and Henry Phelan had to be at their best while Jeffrey Cleere, Brion Walsh, Mikey Dorney and Jim Clune enjoyed moments of success over the hour.

U-14 “A” LEAGUE The U-14 “A” team hurlers, managed by All-Star Eoin Larkin enjoyed a runaway 3-14 to 0-02 victory over Young Irelands in their 5th round league fixture.

They have a bye in the next round but will be tested to the limit on Sunday 20th September when they take on neighbours Dicksboro in their final league fixture which will decide their final place on the league table in advance of their championship campaign.

1976 ALL IRELAND REUNION

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Community & GAA Notes Preparations are now being finalised for the much anticipated 50th. anniversary reunion of the victorious 1976 All Ireland Club championship winning team which is being held in the Larchfield clubrooms on Saturday next, 19th. September. On that famous day, 15th. March 1976, James Stephens scored a historic victory over Blackrock of Cork on a scoreline of 2-10 to 2-04 and became the first Leinster club to claim the Tommy Moore trophy. A number of the Blackrock team will be present on what is sure to be an enjoyable and memorable night. Our thoughts will also be on the great players from that team who are no longer with us but without whom we would not have had such success.

SYMPATHIES The sympathies of the membership are extended to the McGuire family, Larchfield on the death of their mother, Mrs. Mary McGuire, Larchfield on Tuesday of last week. A native of Waterford city, Mary passed away in her 92nd year in her Larchfield home with her loving family by her bedside. Mary was predeceased by her husband Jimmy and son Thomas. The McGuire family are long standing loyal supporters of the James Stephens club, currently Mary’s son Seamus (Shasky) is the club’s assistant secretary and has won senior (1988) and under-age football championship medals with the club in his playing days. Mary, a person with an engaging personality will be missed by her many friends in St. Patrick’s parish and Larchfield neighbourhoods. Our sympathies are extended to her daughters Margaret and Ann, her sons Sean, Kevin and Seamus and their extended families. Mary was laid to rest in St. Kieran’s cemetery following Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s church on Thursday afternoon. “Air dheis laimh Dei go raibh a anam dilis” SOCIAL CAMOGIE On Saturday last, James Stephens hosted the national social Camogie blitz, welcoming 23 teams from all over Ireland. The club entered 2 teams with over 30 women strong. The sun came out for a day full of sport, fun, laughs and a celebration of women in sport. An evening in the village club, Larchfield followed with music and food for the teams to enjoy. From all of us involved on the team who helped in organising the event, thank you to all of the volunteers and the James Stephens community. We are incredibly proud to be part of a club that got behind Social Camogie and gave it the support it deserves. Brian Molloy, the president of the Camogie association was in attendance to support this great occasion.

CRANNCHUR (LOTTO) Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite: 10, 22, 23, 27. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir. Na mion duaisneanna €40: Caroline Camerford, Kevin Hennessy, Billy Kelly, Marian Hennessy and Catherine Coyne BENNETTSBRIDGE FIELD DAY 2026 The field day for 2026 took place last Sunday in the GAA grounds. Another great day was had by all with the weather fine again for the day. Bennettsbridge GAA would like to thank all who helped on the day,

The Wheel of Fortune did a roaring trade at the Bridge Field Day.

from parking cars to manning stalls and activities.

Thanks to all who sponsored prizes for the raffle which was very well supported again this year.

The event was very well supported, and all enjoyed the various activities. There was something for everybody and the fine weather added to the success of the day. MC for the day was Shane Doyle, and he kept everyone up to speed on the happenings.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Fr. Pat Duggan on the death of his sister, Bridget (Biddy) Kearns (née Duggan), Kyle, Kilmoganny, Co. Kilkenny. She was in her 92nd year and died in the care of SignaCare Nursing Home, New Ross, Co. Wexford on Monday, 7th September 2026.

Biddy was pre-deceased by her husband Con, her brothers Michael and Seán, her sister Peggie and also her sister Pauline who died in infancy.

She will be deeply missed by her children Mary, John, Marguerite, Patricia and Cornelia, her brothers Fr. Pat and Liam, her sister Kitty (Gorey), sonsin-law Adrian and Bill, Patricia’s partner Detlev,

Bennettsbridhge U10s winners of the Annual Mickey Kelly Tournament.

daughter-in-law Ruth, her grandchildren Tara, Hannah, Jack, Jessica and Alex, nephews, nieces, extended family, relatives, neighbours and friends.

She lay in repose at Molloy’s Funeral Home, Callan, with Rosary and Vigil Prayers. Requiem mass was celebrated in The Church of the Most Holy Trinitiy, Hugginstown, Burial took place in the old Cemetery, Hugginstown.

LOTTO On 7th September the lotto produced no winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 1, 10, 13, 24. Consolation Prizes were given to Peggy Walpole, Bennettsbridge, Anne Ryan, Woodlawn, Olive Morrin, Kilfane, James Dowling, Bennettsbridge, Adrian Costigan, Marian Place.

CARDS RESULTS 25th August. First Prize Veronica/Jimmy Muldowney, Martin Clarke/Pauline Keating (11 games).

Table Prize Mick Fitzpatrick/John Drennan.

1st September. First Prize Ann Carroll/Billy Carroll, Michael Phelan/Frank O’Neill (11 games). Table Prize Paddy Meaney/Jack Bolger 8th September. First Prize Toddy Skehan/Marty Hanlon (11 games) Second Prize Michael Kenneally/ Neddy Walsh (9 games). Table Prize Pat Murphy/ Rose Hayes ART GROUP Art Classes resumed this week also and members of the group will decide on the programme from now until Christmas. It is intended to hold the Christmas Art Fest again this year. It will be held on the last Sunday in November in the Community Hall.

GATHERING GROUP The gathering will return to its weekly meetings next Wednesday after the summer break. Members are looking forward to catching up on all the news.

MICKEY KELLY TOURNAMENT We hosted our annual under 10 Mickey Kelly tournament last Saturday morning. The teams that competed were Mullinahone, Carrickshock, Lisdowney, Tullogher, Castletown and Bennettsbridge. A huge well done to our own lads who won the cup with a thrilling victory over Carrickshock in the final. Well, done to all the competing teams on a great day’s hurling. Ger Kelly, son of Mickey, was on hand to present the trophy and medals. Many thanks to all who helped with the organising of the tournament.

SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP Our seniors will play Danesfort in the first round of the championship this weekend. All support will be greatly appreciated for this important first round clash.

THANKS As the dry spell comes to an end we once again offer our thanks to our club sponsor Bennettsbridge Limestone for their continued help with watering the pitch during the dry spell ensuring that the surface is in great condition for all games and training. Over the past month we have hosted two double headers in the grounds. Many thanks to all who gave up their time to help out with stewarding, cleaning up, manning the shop etc during this busy time. All your help is greatly appreciated.

UNDERAGE GAMES

Our minors are at home to Galmoy / Windgap next Saturday.

Our under 16s defeated Carrickshock last Saturday.

Our under 14 team defeated Mullinavat.

Well, done to our under 8s who played in the Castlecomer tournament and to our under 12s who played in the Tullaroan tournament at the weekend.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN The Bennettsbridge GAA Pitch signage campaign is on-going. Thanks to all the business owners who have supported this initiative so far. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH LOCALOTTO This draw produced the following result. the numbers drawn were, 4, 10,15,29. There was no winner The jackpot is still there to be won. Consolation prizes of €30 went to Martina Bolger, Paula Mahon.

Ger O’Reilly (online). Breda Holden. Pat Gill.

HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC We are looking for coaches for the following positions U16 girls and u9 and u10 girls. This is your opportunity to get involved with the club and inspire the next generation.

DUISKE GLASS Fancy learning to make your own beautiful jewellery? Why not spend four lovely Monday afternoons learning a new creative skill in the gorgeous surroundings of the Duiske Glass Gift Shop and Coffee Dock in Graignamanagh? Jewellery Making Course with the wonderful Emma Jane Champley. Learn, create and make your very own jewellery, with all materials included. Starting Monday, 21st September 2pm – 5pm Duiske Glass Gift Shop and Coffee Dock, High Street, Graignamanagh. It will run for four Mondays, will cost €65 per person. All materials included.

It sounds like the perfect way to spend a Monday afternoon, creative, relaxing and social, with the added bonus of enjoying the lovely Coffee Dock atmosphere. Bring a friend, meet new people and leave with something beautiful that you’ve made yourself.

To book telephone 059 9724174 or pop into the shop. Payment required in advance. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out!

WATERWAYS COLLEGE Learn how to read a river. What is your local stream telling you? Join us at Waterways College for our 2-Day Small Streams Characterisation System (SSCS) Course, led by Ken Whelan. Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October 2026. Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny.

This practical, hands-on course will help you develop the skills to assess small streams, recognise pressures and better understand the fauna, flora and physical structure of our waterways. Ideal for community and river groups, anglers, environmental professionals, students, citizen scientists and anyone with a strong interest in protecting our rivers and streams. Two days. Real rivers. Places are limited.

DUISKE COLLEGE Duiske College was delighted to attend the KCETB Student of the Year Awards 2025–2026 at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow. We are so proud our own Student of the Year, Senan Kelly, who was a very deserving recipient of this special award, recognising his achievements, determination, kindness and contribution to school life.

It was also a lovely opportunity to celebrate the wonderful students across all our KCETB schools.

We are extremely proud of all our students and the positive contribution they make to Duiske College every day. Well, done Sean.

NEW DEPUTY PRINCIPAL A very warm welcome to our new Deputy Principal.

We are delighted to welcome Mr Dunne to Duiske College as our new Deputy Principal. After more than 20 years in Coláiste Mhuire Johnstown, Mr Dunne brings a wealth of experience in education, having worked as a Year Head and I.T. Coordinator, as well as teaching Maths, Accounting, LCVP and I.T./Computer Studies.

A proud Tipperary native, University of Limerick graduate and married father of four, Mr Dunne is passionate about community, sport and lifelong learning. He is excited to begin this next chapter in Duiske College and has been made feel incredibly welcome by our students, staff and Principal.

We are delighted to have you on board, Mr Dunne, and wish you every success in your new role.

GOLF SOCIETY There was a great turnout for the recent outing to New Ross last Saturday, with members enjoying an

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Community & GAA Notes

Waiting to receive a pass.

excellent day of competition and good company.

Jimmy Conan took first place, with Ciaran O’Brien finishing a close second and Johnaton Hickey claiming third position. Congratulations to all who took part and helped make the outing such a success. The next outing will take place at Rathsallagh on October 3rd. More details regarding the event will be announced in due course.

GAA Well, done to the Junior team today who came away with a hard fought win over a gallant Galmoy, who threw everything at us, in the end we secured a 4 point win on a scoreline of 0-27 to 4-11. We will now meet Windgap in the 2nd Roundd next weekend which will no doubt be another big battle. Best of luck to all the lads.(a report on this match can be read in the Sports Section of this newspaper) The club would like to pass on sympathy to the Flood family on the death of Paddy. Paddy and his wife Maura were great supporters of the Club and were regular match attenders of all our club’s teams.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN Tom Healy

BARROW RANGERS The lotto Match 3 winner was Joe Breen (€100).

BRIDGE UNITED The Football Academy for boys and girls born in 2021 or later has started and continues 10.15am this Saturday. Information: Darren 086 0701 238.

Congratulations to the winners in last week’s lotto (€50 each): Eamonn

Barcoe and Marty Dalton.

CHILDRENS’ FOREST SCHOOL Will be held on Tuesdays, 4.30-6.30pm for 11-15 years old with experiences of Bushcraft, Knots, Fire lighting, Cooking, Foraging, Nature, Art and Games at Shankill Castle, Paulstown. Information: Eithne 089 602 6945.

CHURCH SERVICES AND PARISH EVENTS Mass Times: Goresbridge: Saturday 7.30pm; Sunday at 10.00am. Paulstown: Sunday at 11.30am.

Weekday Masses: Goresbridge: Wednesday at 10.00am. Paulstown: Thursday, and Friday at 10.00am Mass will be celebrated in Our Lady’s Grotto, Lower Grange, Goresbridge on Friday 11th September at 7.30p.m. All Welcome.

TALKING THE TALK “Cúpla Focal” is a welcoming Irish language conversation circle held every Friday at the Goodly Barrow Cafe. The gathering provides a relaxed and friendly environment where people can practice speaking Irish, improve their confidence, and meet others with a shared interest in the language and culture.

Open to everyone from complete beginners to fluent speakers, the group focuses on informal conversation, encouragement, and learning through everyday chat. Whether you want to revive your school Irish, sharpen your fluency, or simply enjoy a social evening with fellow Giliberti, Cúpla Focal offers an enjoyable and supportive space to use the language in a natural way.

DANCE CLASSES AT IONAD DARA, GORES-

BRIDGE. Join us at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge, starting Monday, 14th September at 7:00 pm. Learn and enjoy a variety of dance styles, including Jive, Line Dancing, and all forms of Social Dancing.

Class Fees: Adults: €10 per class. Secondary School Students: €5 per class. Primary School Students: Free. Adults aged 80 and over: Free For more information, contact Declan on 085 708 9128. Everyone is welcome, whether you’ re a beginner or an experienced dancer.

TAR ISTEACH Bric a Brac including household items, unwanted gifts, unwanted toiletry sets, delph, dishes, cutlery are all welcome at the Tar Isteach shop in Goresbridge. Items should be in a saleable condition.

Quality handbags are welcome. Customers are welcome too.

MENS SHED The next men’s shed gathering will take place Tuesday 22nd September, in the cabin at Paulstown Community Hall. New members are always welcome.

SPLIT THE POT Support Goresbridge Rural Development by taking part in Split the Pot. Entries are available in Maher’s and online. Simply scan the QR code or visit lottoraiser.ie.

The winners of the draw on Sunday, 6th September were 1st Prize (€100): Skinny, 2nd Prize (€20): Conor Foley, 3rd Prize (€20): Denis Meaney and Sonjo.

KILMANAGH MASS SCHEDULE September 19th – Kilmanagh. September 26th – Killaloe. October 3rd – Tulla. October 10th – Kilmanagh. October 17th – Killaloe. October 24th – Tulla.

October 31st – Kilmanagh.

COMMUNITY CONNECT FUND Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies Group was honoured to be among the 50 recipients recognised at the St. Canice’s Credit Union Community Connect Fund 2026 awards ceremony recently held in Hotel Kilkenny. A huge thank you to everyone at St Canice’s Credit Union for their generous donation through the Community Connect Fund. The event was hosted by Maura Derrane, and it was a pleasure to be in her company. The funds received will pay for the purchase and installation of blackout blinds for Naomh Aodhan Community Centre. On behalf of all the members of Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies Group we would like to thank St Canice’s Credit Union for their support and generosity.

TRAD UNDER THE TREE Trad under the tree at Kilbraghan Crossroads on Sunday September 20th at 2:00pm. Music and tea followed by a short walk up Pollagh. All are welcome.

SET DANCING Set dancing will be starting back in Ballycallan hall on Friday 18th September at 6.30pm. For further details contact Mary Dunphy at 086 401 0914.

COMMUNITY BENEFIT FUND Perigus Energy (formerly Orsted) are holding a drop-in session for anyone to learn more about the Farranrory Community Benefit Fund. The fund will open in November with approximately €250,000 available each year. This gathering will take place in Ballingarry Community Centre on Thursday, September 24th, 4-6pm.

OLD SCHOOL BOYS The local men’s group, of varying vintage, have their next gathering on Friday, September 25th, 10am to 12 noon, in the Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh.

ATHLETICS CLUB From now on, our running sessions will revert to the winter schedule and meet at Callan Medical Centre at 7pm, every Tuesday and Thursday. Whether you’re an experienced runner, just getting started, prefer to jog, or simply want to get out and walk, everyone is welcome.

Our sessions are all about getting active, improving fitness, meeting great people and, most importantly, enjoying ourselves along the way. So, grab your runners and come along.

MOUNT CARMEL DRAW The Mount Carmel Monthly Draw is starting soon.

It is only €25 for the full year, and you get 12 draws.

You can join many ways, on our website www. mountcarmelcallan.ie, in Mount Carmel, Callan Post Office, Lyons Greengrocers, Maher’s Inver Station, with our loyal promoters and with Elaine Bryan. We would like to thank everyone who supports us in so many ways, especially in our Draw and Golf Classic that was held recently, all who sponsor us and who join us, you are much appreciated. All the monies we raise is used to help keep Mount Carmel as the wonderful care facility that we are so fortunate to have in the middle of our town. For our residents who move into Mount Carmel for a little bit of assistance but can still be independent. All your support makes it their home, where they can stay in their

community and that is the most important thing.

800th ANNIVERSARY The 800th Anniversary of the passing of St Francis “The Transitus” at the Capuchin Friary Kilkenny is a very significant occasion for the whole Franciscan Family worldwide and indeed locally. It is so timely in the church following the legacy of Pope Francis and also now with Pope Leo. The Capuchin Friars are hosting a Triduum October 1st 2nd and 3rd at the 10.30 Mass.

The Preacher is Fr Joe Bulman OP. Bishop Ger Nash will celebrate the 12noon Mass on Sunday October 4th which is the Feast of St Francis. All are Welcome.

COMMUNITY CENTRE Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh is available to hire for meetings, social occasions, etc. To check for time and date availability contact booking officer Tom at 086 315 1573.

ACTIVE LADIES CLUB Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies will recommence meetings on Monday 21st September from 7pm – 9pm. New members are always welcome. If there is any event or occasion happening in the community and you need some extra help, please contact us as we will always have some people available to help.

Contact 086 373 99 83 for further details.

IRISH DANCING McAliskey School of Irish Dance will hold classes for children aged 4 and upwards on Tuesdays and Fridays in Naomh Aodhan Community Hall, Kilmanagh. Contact 083 863 8436 for further details.

LOTTO Results for 7th September. Numbers drawn were 4; 14; 18; 22. There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners were Aisling Murphy, Majella Maher and Kay McGuinness. Sellers’ Prizes went to Willie O’Connor and Ann Fitzpatrick.

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

KILMACOW KILMACOW HERITAGE The Graveyard Working Group will undertake maintenance work at Dunkitt Graveyard from 2.00pm on Saturday, 19th September. All offer of help will be welcomed. All actual help will be more welcome.

HOSPICE COFFEE MORNING Kilmacow Hospice Support Group will host a Coffee Morning in Kilmacow Community Centre (Barrow Room) from 10.00am to 12 noon on Thursday, 24th September. It is being held in conjunction with the National Coffee Morning in aid of the Hospice Movement. All welcome.

NEW MURAL IN UPPER STREET Well, done to Kilmacow GLAS who secured funding under the Anti-Litter Anti-Graffiti Grant Scheme from Kilkenny County Council for the new mural by Street Art Ink in the Upper Street, Kilmacow. The mural promotes the themes of care for the environment and biodiversity which are at the core of the Kilmacow GLAS initiative.

MARIAN HALL

Mural in Upper Street by Street Art Ink

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Community & GAA Notes The Marian Hall hosts Line Dancing from 7.00pm to 8.30pm each Tuesday. Please contact Suzanne at 087 630 0336 for details.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 3, 5, 6 and 24. There were five Lucky Dips at €40 each.

MULLINAVAT HOSPICE COFFEE MORNING A Coffee Morning in aid of the Hospice Movement will be held in the Community Centre, Mullinavat from 10.00am to 2.00pm on Saturday, 3rd October.

All support would be gratefully appreciated. All money raised locally stays locally.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Society will host a talk by Liz Gillis on the ‘1926 Census – A treasure trove for local historians’ at 8.00pm on Thursday, 24th September in the Parish Hall. Admission €5 for non-members. All welcome.

MULLINAVAT LOTTO The winning numbers on Monday, 7th September were 3, 10, 19 and 26. There was one Match 3 winner.

FARM PLASTIC COLLECTION DAY IFFPG will hold a once-off collection day in the Showgrounds, Piltown from 8.00am to 4.00pm on Monday, 21 st September.

BALLYFASY WIND FARM An Commisiún Pleanála has given notice of its decision to determine the application for a 10 year planning permission for Ballyfasy Wind Farm (consisting of 10 wind turbines and associated infrastructure) without an oral hearing. An Commisiún has concluded that the case can be dealt with adequately by written procedure.

SMALL WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANTS NATIONAL PLAN At the end of August Uisce Éireann (Irish Water) announced that a new national plan is to be developed to help to ensure communities have the wastewater infrastructure they need to support homes, businesses and sustainable growth, while continuing to protect the environment. The Small Wastewater Treatment Plants National Plan will shape how wastewater services in small communities are planned and delivered. Submissions from the public, community groups, environmental organisations, local authorities, business representatives and others are welcome. The consultation documents are available at www.water.ie/smallcommunitiesww. Submissions can be made by e-mail to smallcommunitiesww@water.ie or by post to Small Wastewater Treatment Plants, National Plan, Enterprise Fund Business Centre, Ballyraine, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal, F92 AF43 by Tuesday, 20 th October.

TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF DOCTOR’S PRACTICE The HSE intends to undertake building works on the Health Centre to upgrade its facilities so as to ensure the best medical care for patients. The work will commence on Monday, 28th September and it is anticipated they will take eight weeks to complete. Dr. Ronan Cleary’s practice will operate from the Ferrybank Primary Care Centre, Belmont Road, Ferrybank X91PK2V for the duration of the works.

Practice hours will remain the same and likewise the telephone number, 051 511834, will remain unchanged. Dr. Cleary assured all patients will receive the best possible care during the relocation period.

RAMBLING HOUSE Mullinavat Community Centre will host its monthly Rambling House at 8.00pm on Saturday, 19th September. Everyone is welcome to attend an evening of music, song, recitation, stories and dance.

CIRCUIT TRAINING The Community Centre will host circuit training for strength and conditioning from 6,20am to 7.20am twice a week. Please ring Maria on 087 910 9490 for details.

FERRYBANK RESIDENTS MEETING The next meeting of Ferrybank Community Residents Development Group will be held from 2.00pm to 3.00pm on Wednesday, 30th September. New members welcome.

SLIEVERUE ROUNDABOUT Road Resurfacing works have commenced at the N29 Slieverue Roundabout and Belview Road. A traffic management scheme, including a STOP/GO system, will be operation and motorists are advised that delays may be expected. Works are anticipated to continue until Friday, 2nd October.

DANCE CLASSES Slieverue Parish Hall hosts after school dance

Boat planted by Ferrybank Tidy Towns Group on the green at Rockenham

classes for ages 6 to 12 years. Please contact Jack on 089 427 2077 for details.

FERRYBANK GAA Wellkids continues for boys and girls aged four to six years from 10.00am to 11.00am each Saturday at the Ferrybank GAA grounds. It is a great way to be introduced to Gaelic games and to meet new friends.

FERRYBANK COMMUNITY MUSIC CLUB The Club meets form 6.00pm to 8.00pm in the Hillsfield Centre each Tuesday. It is open to adults (18+) and new members are welcome. There are no auditions, there is no pressure and no particular level of music skill is required. People can join and learn at their own pace. The first session is free and the cost thereafter is €5 per session to cover expenses. Please e-mail ferrybankcn@gmail.com for more details.

LINK ROAD The preparatory archaeological surveys and fencing along the temporary CPO line is anticipated to be commence this month. These works will facilitate progress on the proposed link road between the Belmont Road and the Abbey Road.

TRAFFIC LIGHTS AT ROCKSHIRE HILL The operation of the lights is being reviewed by BAM, and their specialist transportation systems subcontractor are continuing to review the network system and it is expected that the system capacity will be updated shortly.

TIDY TOWNS Well, done to all in the Ferrybank Tidy Towns Group. Their efforts are noticed and are greatly adding to the presentation of the streetscapes around Ferrybank.

JOHNSTOWN COLOUR AND STYLE WORKSHOP A special Colour and Style, Sustainable Style Workshop with Johanna Costigan will take place in Urlingford Library on Thursday, September 24th, from 11am to 1pm.

The workshop promises to be an enjoyable and informative morning, offering participants an opportunity to explore personal style while also looking at more sustainable approaches to clothing and fashion. It is a chance to pick up useful ideas and inspiration in a relaxed local setting. Places are limited and booking is essential. To reserve a place, contact Urlingford Library on 056 7794182.

THE MILL CENTRE The Thursday Club has resumed at the Mill Centre, art, crafts, chair yoga, music, tea and coffee. Meetings each Thursday at 2pm.

BACK AGAIN The Tuesday Club will resume its regular meetings on Tuesday, September 22nd, commencing at 1.30pm. Members are invited to come along and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, social company and activities provided by the club. New members are always most welcome, so anyone interested in joining is encouraged to come along and find out more.

For further information, or if you would like to make contact before the next meeting, please contact Hyacinth on 086 325 7267 or Ann on 087 235 6484.

THE HAPPY VALLEY TRACTOR RUN The organising committee of the tractor run recently presented an incredible €53,124.00 to Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny. Sincere thanks to each and every one who helped out and supported the event in so ways and a special thanks to Sean Norton for his innovative and gener-

ous fundraising contributions. Planning is already under way for the 2026 run.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Shem Delaney and family on the untimely death of his grandson Evan, Ballycogley, Co. Wexford after a long illness. Evan was a gifted athlete who had played hurling and football for his local club St. Martins. He made the U15 and U16 development squads and was put forward for trials for the Wexford minor team but unfortunately his illness intervened and it was not to be. In spite of his illness and with the help of his parents he set up “Quackie Jack” which is short video clips using age-appropriate language which will help to give young people suffering from cancer a better understanding of what can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Evan will be lovingly missed and remembered by his parents Deirdre and Adrian, grandad Shem, Aunt Sinead, Uncle JJ, cousins, relations, his classmates and many friends.

WALKING TRACK NOW OPEN The walking track at the sports field on the Rathdowney Road is now open for walkers and runners to enjoy. The facility provides a great opportunity for people of all ages to get some fresh air and exercise in a safe and welcoming environment.

Users are asked to walk or run to the left-hand side of the track and follow the arrows around the route.

Please note that dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the track. The track closes at 9.30pm, with the lights switched off at 9.45pm. All users are asked to leave promptly at closing time.

PARENTS OPEN NIGHT Colaiste Mhuire.will hold its parents open night Thursday Oct 1st at 6.30pm. Find out more about what the school has to offer including curriculum and extracurricular activities, the grounds, buildings, facilities and more. Closing date for applications for 26/27 is October 23rd.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were7,8,20,22, and although there was no jackpot winner, there were three match threes, and they were, Richard Beehan, Brandon Webster and Christine Neary. They were in for the win!

THE MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE SAVE THE DATE Knitting and Crochet Circle Christmas Fair 4th December 2026, 11am – 1pm in the Centre. Lots of handmade items for sale from blankets, dolls, teddies and Christmas items.

The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to play an important role in the local community, providing a wide range of supports, services and activities for individuals and families of all ages. The Centre offers a friendly and welcoming environment where people can come together, learn new skills, improve their wellbeing and enjoy opportunities for social connection. One of the latest opportunities available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme, which will be starting shortly. The free course includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, giving participants the chance to gain useful practical skills that can help with employment, confidence and greater independence.

Courses available include SNA QQI Level 5 and 6, Childcare and Computing QQI Level 4, Early Learning and Care Certificate and Advanced Certificate QQI Level 5, as well as LTI QQI Level 4. There are also opportunities to study Office Administration and Payroll QQI Level 5 and Basic Computers.

Anyone interested in taking part is encouraged to call into The Mill Family Resource Centre or contact the Centre directly for further information about the course and details on how to apply.

The popular Youth Club has also returned and takes place every Wednesday evening from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. The club is open to young people aged between 10 and 12 years and provides a great opportunity to meet friends and enjoy some fun activities.

The Thursday Club has resumed its regular meetings at the Mill Centre, offering a welcoming and enjoyable afternoon for members. A variety of activities are available, including arts and crafts, chair yoga and music, providing something for everyone to enjoy. There is also plenty of opportunity to relax and socialise over tea and coffee in a friendly atmosphere. Meetings take place every Thursday afternoon at 2pm, and everyone is encouraged to come along and enjoy the activities and company.

There are also some great bargains available on the Centre’s clothes rail, so why not call in and have a look?

For further information on any of the above, contact The Mill Family Resource Centre on 056 8838466.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 1pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

MEMORIAL WALK The Annual Louise Guilfoyle Memorial 10k road race and 6k family walk will take place in Ballysloe this Saturday 19th September. Registration from 1.30p.m. please support.

PILATES WITH RUTH Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth.

Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO A special anniversary bingo will be held this Saturday evening 19th September at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm. Over €4,100 in prize money on offer. All single and double lines €50 payout. The weekend bingo includes a special €500 game and an anniversary special game for €800. Split the Pot on the day. See local posters in the shops and Facebook. This is the 30th anniversary of playing bingo in Gortnahoe Hall and a great tribute to the committee who run the bingo each week. It would be great to see support from the parish for this special event. It will be a great afternoon’s entertainment for all the family.

DANCE CLASSES Dance Classes: Learn to jive, foxtrot, waltz, etc in Gortnahoe Hall at 8pm on Thursdays, starting this Thursday, Sept 17th. €10 pay as you go. Contact Sally at 087-7931308.

SPLIT THE POT Split the Pot will take place next Sunday in Gortnahoe Hall. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange, Gortnahoe Hall and any member of the committee, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for September is in aid of Ballysloe Sensory Garden. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

GET MOVING Millennium Men on the Move Classes started back on Monday 14th September and will continue for

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Community & GAA Notes Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.

Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.

ROTA (TWENTY FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Neill O’Grady. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power. Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Margaret Kenneally; Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Crowley.

HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY, HUGGINSTOWN: House No. 5 is now vacant. Any elderly person who is interested in applying please contact the Secretary, Lily Burke, Croan, Dunamaggan, Co. Kilkenny.

Tel. 056 776 8008 for an Application Form

10 weeks 12:30–1:30pm in the Millennium Family Resource Centre Glengoole, E41DW22. Total Cost €20. Come along for some light exercise’s followed by a cup of tea and a chat. For further information contact Alice Teehan 083-1014313.

SYMPATHY Sympathy to the Minogue family, Barna, Woodsgift on the death of Sheila formerly of Kilcooley, Gortnahoe.

TUIREN PHELAN RIP Tuiren passed away peacefully at home in the arms of her parents Patrick and Deirdre, brother Lochlainn and sister Neala on September 11th.

Predeceased by her grandad Michael. Sadly, missed and remembered with love by her heartbroken family, her grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, school friends, the extended Phelan and Tuohy families, her carers in the medical profession, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Mass of the Angels took place last Sunday in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe. Tuiren was then laid to rest in the Good Shepherd Cemetery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Phelan and Tuohy families, and our community are thinking of you at this heartbreaking time.

JOHN MAHONEY RIP The death has occurred of John Mahoney, Fennor, Gortnahoe, who passed away on September 7th in the loving care of nurses and staff at Fennor Care Facility, Urlingford. Predeceased by his parents Edward and Kitty, brother Ritchie and his brothers-in-law Ken Coogan and Chris Brennan.

Sadly, missed by his loving sisters Anne and Eileen, nephews, niece, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. John reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home, Urlingford last Wednesday. Removal took place on Thursday morning to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe arriving for Requiem Mass at. Interment took place afterwards in Fennor Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

CONAHY HURLING The junior hurlers scored an excellent win over Fenians in the opening round of the JJ Kavanagh Junior Championship on Sunday afternoon last in Cloneen. Conahy led by 2-7 to 0-8 at half time thanks to two opportunist goals from Mark Gunner.

The locals improved their performance further in the second half, scoring 1-12 to Fenians’ 0-5 in that time, with the third Conahy goal coming from James Bergin. The final score saw Conahy the deserved winners by 3-19 to 0-13. They will now face Kilmacow in the second round on this Saturday afternoon at 2.30 p.m. in Danesfort. Best of luck to the panel and management.

TEAM: Padraic Delaney, Padraig Gunner, Philip Cass, Darragh Horgan, Ciaran Rice, Darragh Hennessy, Liam Cass, Jack Rhatigan, Edmond Delaney, Rob Ring, Tom Phelan, Thomas Rice, Bill Murphy, James Bergin, Mark Gunner. Subs.: Patrick Kennedy, Jack Murphy, Harry O’Mahony, Karl Downey, John Kennedy.

The minor hurlers shared the spoils with Graignamanagh in their most recent game in the Kilkenny Vehicle Centre Roinn B League in Jenkinstown on Wednesday last. A late come back from the visitors ensured that they snatched a draw with the final action of the game to level the scores at Conahy’s 4-15 to Graignamanagh’s 2-21.

TEAM: Neil Webster, Rory Dunne, Tadgh Hennessy, Bobby Dooley, Finn Sherman, Jack Rhatigan, Rory Rhatigan, Darragh Horgan, Billy Rowe, Joe Boland, Patrick Kennedy, Jack Buggy. M.J. Buggy, Brian Phelan, Rory Sherman, Mounir Zouaoui, Sam Connellan, Camryn Kenehan, Brian Tierney, Padraic Quinn, Mikey Hurley, Jack Gamble, Ben Byrne.

The under-16 hurlers made the long journey to Slieverue to play the home side in the Duggan Steel Roinn C League/Championship, with the home side securing the win on a 3-13 to 2-10 score line. Conahy now look forward to a championship outing in the coming weeks.

TEAM: Padraig Murphy, Jim Synott, James Byrne, Mikey Hurley, Diarmuid Quinn, Evan Buggy, Mounir Zouaoui, Bobby Dooley, Will Clarke, Sam Connellan, M.J. Buggy, Jack Buggy, Ben Byrne, Jack Gamble, Richie Rowe, Ethan McEvoy, Cian Rhatigan, Aaryn Kenehan, Noah Meany, Daragh McGee, Brandon Maher, Ciaran Quinn.

The under-14 boys had a busy week with two matches against O’Loughlin Gaels and Cloneen respectively in the Duggan Steel Roinn D League.

O’Loughlin’s were the deserving winners in St. John’s Park, winning by 2-8 to 0-5. However, Conahy had a great win away to Cloneen, winning 5-10 to 3-12. They are back in action tonight Friday when

they host Danesfort in Jenkinstown.

TEAM: Conor Horgan, Ethan Maher, Padraig Murphy, Daniel McEvoy, Cillian Nolan, Rory McDonald, Noah Meany, Charlie Redmond, Darragh Foley-McGee, Ciaran Quinn, Rory Kiernan, Cian Rhatigan, Brandon Maher, Adam Flynn, Tommy Murphy, Joshua Byrne, Richie Rowe, Billy Hickey, Blaine Kenny, Charlie Dunne.

CAMOGIE The intermediate camogie girls play Rower-Inistioge in the opening round of the Abbott Intermediate championship on this Sunday morning at 11.00 a.m. Best of luck to all involved.

The minor girls scored a good win away to Kilmacow in St. Canice’s CU Roinn D shield final on Saturday evening last. Some great scores along the way saw the locals win out by 9-6 to 3-7. Well, done to everyone involved.

TEAM: Katy Murphy, Sophie Carroll, Emily Lawless, Isobel Dunne, Caoimhe Mulhall, Ruth Carroll, Grace Butler, Hannah Styles, Naomi Kerr, Sarah Murphy, Eva Kennedy, Clodagh Lawless, Mary Lou Rowe, Rachel Mulhall, Emily English, Emily Kennedy, Keenan Kennedy.

The under-16 girls scored a big win over Slieverue on Tuesday night last in the St. Canice’s CU Roinn D championship quarter-final in Jenkinstown. They will now look forward to a semi-final with Clara, which is due to take place in the coming days.

TEAM: Lucy Butler, Emily Kennedy, Sophie Conway, Sophie Meany, Grace Butler, Ruth Carroll, Isobel Dunne, Eva Kennedy, Hannah Styles, Mary Lou Rowe, Aobha Dunne, Emily English, Michelle Cahill, Rachel Mulhall, Bríd Gamble, Grace O’Meara, Juliet Dunne.

The under-14 girls will play host to Piltown in the St. Canice’s CU Roinn D quarter-final tomorrow evening (Thursday) at 6.15 p.m. in Jenkinstown.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 16, 40 and 41. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Caoimhe Hennessy, Val Gunner, Róisín Keogh, Jim Purcell and Sean O’Shea. The promoter prize winners were Nora Delaney, Anne Downey and Margaret Buggy. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

TRIBUTE BAND NIGHT ‘Back for Good”, the ultimate Westlife and Take That tribute band, will play in the Jenkinstown Venue on this Saturday, September 19th. Doors open at 8.30 p.m. with the show starting at 9.30 p.m. Tickets cost €15 and are available via ClubZap or at the door on the night. Be sure to come along and enjoy what should be a great night.

NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat. Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area).

Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@gmail.com. Liam Cassin (Hugginstown).

Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory. ie. Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES

CHAMPIONSHIP HURLING Tullogher Rosbercon 1-26; Carrickshock 1-24. (aet) Tullogher Rosbercon advanced in the MLM Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship in the most dramatic fashion when they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against Carrickshock at the Mullinavat GAA Grounds on Saturday afternoon last.

This was a magnificent championship contest which had everything a knockout game should have, with both sides giving their all right to the final whistle. For long periods there was little between the teams, and it was Tullogher Rosbercon who eventually emerged victorious after extra time.

(A report on this match can be read in the Sports Section of this newspaper) STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT A.G.M. On Wednesday, the 30th. September, Stoneyford Text Alert will hold their A.G.M. at 7.30p.m. in the Community Centre. The Garda Crime Prevention Officer and members of our local Gardai will be in attendance to speak to us about personal safety and safety and security around the home. Everyone is invited to attend.

BISHOP OF OSSORY Prayer for Bishop Ger: Eternal God, Shepherd and Guide, may Bishop Ger, who will serve our Diocese, be a shepherd after your own heart, who will walk in your ways and with loving care watch over your people. May he be a leader of vision and a teacher of your truth. So may your name be glorified and your Church built up, through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY A Lecture on the 1926 Census: ‘A Treasure Trove for Local Historians’ will be given by Liz Gillis on Thursday, September 24th. at 8.00p.m. in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church). The release of the 1926 Census has opened an extraordinary window into life in the early years of the Irish Free State. In this talk, historian Liz Gillis explores what the census reveals about our communities. Drawing on local examples, you will hear the stories behind the statistics and see how people lived and worked a century ago.

“ACCORD” Accord CLG is seeking an Executive Director who will be the chief executive officer of Accord CLG and be responsible for providing strategic and operational leadership across the organisation. The deadline for applications is 12.00Noon on Monday, 28th. September 2026. For more information, visit www.forvismazars.com/ie/en/executiverecruitment ST. MARY’S CATHEDRAL RESTORATION FUND DRAW The first draw for St. Mary’s Cathedral Restoration Fund 2026/2027 year is due to take place on Wednesday 30th. September 2026. The draw year 2026/2027 will run from September 2026 to August 2027. Draw will be held at 8.00p.m on the last Wednesday of each month. Tickets are available at the Parish House, Hugginstown: Telephone contact 056 776 8693. All Tickets to be bought by Monday 28th. September if you wish to be part of the First Draw on Wednesday 30th. September. Subscription €10.00 per month. Prize Money €5,000.00 per month. Roman Catholic Diocese and Parishes of Ossory - Registered Charity No. 20015831 LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 7th. September 2026. Numbers: 02; 14; 03; 07. There was no winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn.

There was no Jackpot Winner. The 5 x €30.00.

Winners: Fred Malzard, Stoneyford; Lucy McBride, Hugginstown, C +S Connick, Jerpoint Church; Jamie Power, Lawcus; Natasha Silke, Carrigeen. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Tommy Murphy, Catherine Duggan, James Irish.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Sport

Tullogher Rosbercon snatch dramatic victory over Carrickshock

Lar Murphy and Sean Murray await the incoming ball

Tullogher Rosbercon 1-26; Carrickshock 1-24. (aet) John Power at Mullinavat GAA Grounds Tullogher Rosbercon advanced in the MLM Motors Hyundai Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship in the most dramatic fashion when they snatched victory from the jaws of defeat against Carrickshock at the Mullinavat GAA Grounds on Saturday afternoon last.

This was a magnificent championship contest which had everything a knockout game should have, with both sides giving their all right to the final whistle. For long periods there was little between the teams, and it was Tullogher Rosbercon who eventually emerged victorious after extra time.

Carrickshock appeared to have done enough to secure victory when they led by three points in the opening minutes of added time at the end of extra time. However, Tullogher Rosbercon produced one final attack which ultimately decided the contest.

The drama had already been high before extra time was required. With Tullogher Rosbercon three points clear in the first minutes of added time in normal time, Carrickshock were handed a lifeline when Conor Farrell found the net from a free. The goal levelled the contest and sent the game

Waiting for Conor Farrell's delivery

Darragh Brennan (C) heading for goal with Jamie Lyng(TR) in close attention.

into extra time.

Both teams continued to trade scores during the additional period, with Carrickshock eventually appearing to land the decisive blow. Their 42-year-old veteran substitute Michael Rice stepped forward and struck a point during the added extra period to put Carrickshock 1-24 (27) to 0-26 ahead.

With the clock running down, Carrickshock looked to have finally secured their place in the next round. But Tullogher Rosbercon had one last opportunity. Just like Carrickshock, they had a hugely experienced veteran capable of producing something special. In the third minute of added time, Pat Hartley launched a high delivery into the Carrickshock goalmouth. Danny Glennon collected the breaking ball, rounded the goalkeeper and calmly tapped the sliotar into the net.

Pandemonium followed as

the Tullogher Rosbercon players and supporters celebrated a remarkable escape, while Carrickshock were left to reflect on a cruel defeat. The game had been finely balanced from the opening exchanges.

Carrickshock made a promising start and remained in contention throughout the opening half, but Tullogher Rosbercon finished strongly.

Coming up to half time, they produced a superb sequence of six unanswered points.

Danny Glennon opened the scoring sequence from a free before Jamie Lyng added a point from play. Colman O’Sullivan followed with another score, before Walter Walsh converted a free. Lar Murphy then got on the scoresheet, with Jamie Lyng completing the impressive run of scores. Six points without reply saw Tullogher Rosbercon move into a 0-12 to 0-9 lead at the interval.

Carrickshock, however, were

Conor Farrell's shot taken

not going to be shaken off.

Conor Farrell was outstanding throughout and continued to keep the Carrickshock scoreboard moving with some excellent free-taking. He landed scores either side of half time to reduce the deficit to a single point. Danny Glennon responded with another free to restore a two-point advantage for Tullogher Rosbercon, but Farrell again showed his accuracy from placed balls, converting two further frees.

Four minutes into the second half the sides were level at 0-13 each. From there, the game developed into a real arm wrestle.

Neither side could establish a decisive advantage and every score was hard earned. There were some excellent individual battles across the field as both teams fought for possession and attempted to gain control.

Tullogher Rosbercon did manage to move four points clear, leading 0-19 to 0-15 with less than ten minutes remaining. It

looked a significant advantage at that stage, but Carrickshock remained within striking distance.

Tullogher Rosbercon had an opportunity to increase their lead when Jamie Lyng, who otherwise enjoyed an excellent afternoon, found himself with a chance in front of goal. His effort failed to find the target.

It proved to be a costly miss.

Had Tullogher Rosbercon converted the opportunity, the game may well have been settled before extra time. Instead, Carrickshock remained in contention and continued to press for an opening.

Their persistence eventually paid off when Farrell's late free found the net, bringing the sides level and forcing the additional period. Extra time followed the same pattern, with both teams battling through tired legs and refusing to concede ground. Carrickshock appeared to have edged ahead at the crucial moment when Rice struck his point, but Tullogher Rosbercon responded with that remarkable last-gasp attack.

For Tullogher Rosbercon, there were several outstanding performances. Lar Murphy, Pat Hartley, Jamie Lyng, Danny Glennon, Andrew Murphy and Walter Walsh all made important contributions, while Glennon's composure for the winning goal will undoubtedly be remembered.

Carrickshock can take considerable encouragement from their performance despite the disappointment of defeat.

The club has made significant progress during 2026, with a number of last year's minor players now making the transition into adult hurling. They showed considerable promise against an experienced Tullogher Rosbercon side and the experience gained from Saturday's contest should stand to them in the future.

Conor Farrell was exceptional for Carrickshock, contributing 1-14 from general play and placed balls. His free taking kept his side in the contest for long periods and his late goal forced extra time. Padraig Lennon, Mikey Rohan and Eoghan O'Neill also impressed, while veteran substitute Michael Rice showed the value of experience when he struck what looked like the winning point deep into extra time.

Ultimately, though, this was Tullogher Rosbercon's day.

They had led, been pegged back, appeared to have lost their advantage and then produced one final attack when defeat seemed almost certain.

Back of the net

Hartley's high delivery gave Glennon the opportunity, and the Tullogher forward showed tremendous composure to finish the chance. It was a sensational ending to an excellent championship contest.

Carrickshock will rue the missed opportunities and the manner of their late defeat, but they can be proud of a performance which demonstrated the progress being made by the club.

For Tullogher Rosbercon, the reward is a place in the next round of the Intermediate Championship. They will know there is room for improvement, but few will worry about that on the journey home after escaping from such a dramatic encounter.

It was knockout hurling at its most compelling, with both sides refusing to surrender and the result remaining in doubt until the very end. Tullogher Rosbercon march on, while Carrickshock bow out after producing a performance which suggests that better days lie ahead.

SCORERS TULLOGHER ROSBERCON: Danny Glennon (1-7, 0-3 frees), Andrew Murphy (0-6, 0-3 frees), Walter Walsh (0-5, 0-4 frees), Jamie Lyng (0-4), Colman O’Sullivan, Lar Murphy, Marty Murphy, Sean Hanrahan (0-1 each).

CARRICKSHOCK: Conor Farrell (1-14, 1-12 frees), Jake O’Dwyer (0-2), Eoghan O’Neill (0-2), Michael Murphy, Mikey Rohan, Padraig Lennon, Brian Donovan, Eanna Martin, Michael Rice (0-1 each).

TEAMS TULLOGHER ROSBERCON: Davy Walsh, Eoin Kennedy, Pat Hartley, Sean Murray, Anthony O’Connor, Lar Murphy, JJ Ryan, Jamie Lyng, Conor Hennessy, Walter Walsh, Danny Glennon, Colman O'Sullivan. Andrew Murphy, Marty Murphy, Sean Hanrahan. Substitutes.

Michael Sidney for Hennessy, Ciaran Cummins for Anthony O’Connor, Conor Hennessy for Sean Hanrahan, CARRICKSHOCK: Jamie Power, Eddie Donnelly, Padraig Lennon, John Cahill, Sean Moore, Mikey Rohan, Matthew Murphy, Michael Murphy, Jake O’Dwyer, Conor Farrell, Eoin Crowley, Brian Donavan, Eoghan O'Neill, Adam Franks, Barry Lennon. Substitutes John Power for Barry Lennon, Darragh Brennan for Eoin Crowley, Michael Rice for Adam Franks, Eanna Martin for Michael Murphy.

Referee: Eoin Hayes.

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Sport Richie Doyle right through to Shane McDonnell at number 15, Barrow Rangers produced a genuine team performance.

Every player appeared to understand his role and, more importantly, was prepared to work for his teammate.

For a side new to the Intermediate grade, the composure shown in a knockout championship game was particularly impressive. They never appeared overawed by Mooncoin's reputation and, once they established an early lead, they played with increasing confidence.

Mooncoin, meanwhile, will be disappointed with the outcome and, more importantly, with a performance that never reached the levels they would have expected. There was plenty of character shown during the closing quarter and they continued to battle right to the final whistle. However, by then the deficit was simply too large and Barrow Rangers had already done the damage.

The Paulstown men now face an even sterner examination, having been drawn against last year's beaten finalists James Stephens in the quarter final. That will provide a major test of their credentials, but if Barrow Rangers can reproduce the same level of intensity, discipline and teamwork displayed against Mooncoin, they will certainly enter that encounter with confidence.

For now, however, they can savour an outstanding knockout-round victory – one which underlined that these new boys to Intermediate hurling are not simply here to make up the numbers.

Moving the ball on

Barrow Rangers produce commanding display to see off Mooncoin Barrow Rangers 2-21; Mooncoin 0-19.

John Power at Danesfort GAA Grounds A controlled and highly impressive performance from start to finish enabled Intermediate grade newcomers Barrow Rangers to record a comprehensive victory over fancied Mooncoin at the Danesfort GAA Grounds on Sunday evening last.

The Paulstown-based side produced arguably their best display of the season when it mattered most, taking control of this first knockout round encounter from the opening whistle and never allowing Mooncoin to settle into any sustained rhythm.

There had been plenty of expectation surrounding Mooncoin ahead of the game, but they arrived carrying the added burden of a bereavement which had affected members of the panel. On the day, they simply could not match the intensity, work-rate and determination of a Barrow Rangers side that looked hungry for success.

Barrow Rangers got off to the perfect start, registering three early points through Keith Flavin, Gary Hill and Billy Hanlon. Mooncoin responded with a fourth-minute point from the lively Killian Hogan, but the reply was immediate as Joe Healy converted a free for the Paulstown side.

Hogan added another for Mooncoin, but Barrow Rangers continued to find gaps in the Mooncoin defence and points from Kieran O’Neill and Patrick Purcell stretched their advantage to 0-6 to 0-2.

Hogan, from a free, reduced the deficit with his third score in the 12th minute, but the response from Barrow Rangers was emphatic. Over the following five minutes they hit four unanswered points, with Joe Healy contributing two, while Killian Rudkins and Jack Kelly also found the target.

At this stage Barrow Rangers were dictating the pace of the contest and Mooncoin were struggling to contain their opponents' movement and attacking threat. Mooncoin did manage to stem the tide as the game approached the 20-minute mark. Cormac Kinsella, Paul Hennebry and

Martin O’Neill all registered points to bring the score back to 0-10 to 0-6. However, just when Mooncoin appeared to be building some momentum, Barrow Rangers struck for the game's opening goal.

A poor Mooncoin puck-out was punished and Joe Healy finished clinically to the net, giving the Paulstown side a major boost. Healy then added a pointed free as Barrow Rangers once again began to pull away.

Mooncoin responded with their best spell of the opening half, registering four unanswered points over the next six minutes as they attempted to

Protecting possession

get themselves back into contention. But Barrow Rangers were not prepared to surrender their advantage. Their second goal arrived shortly afterwards, with Billy Hanlon finding the net to put further daylight between the sides. Killian Rudkins then added a pointed free and, by half-time, Barrow Rangers had established a commanding 2-12 to 0-10 lead.

Mooncoin needed a strong start to the second half if they were to have any realistic chance of producing a comeback. Instead, it was Barrow Rangers who resumed in determined fashion. The Paulstown men completely dominated the opening stages of the second half, outscoring Mooncoin by

The chase is on

Not an inch

Putting one away

0-5 to 0-1 by the 39th minute.

Their hurling was composed and direct, while their ability to win possession around the middle third of the field ensured Mooncoin were unable to build the platform required for a sustained revival.

With 12 minutes of normal time remaining, Billy Hanlon added another Barrow Rangers point to leave the scoreboard reading 2-20 to 0-14. At that stage, Mooncoin faced a mountain to climb. To their credit, they never stopped battling. They continued to press forward and scored five points to Barrow Rangers' one during the closing stages. There was also a determined attempt to find the goal that might have provided them with a lifeline.

But the Barrow Rangers full-back line stood firm.

Hooking and blocking were a feature of their defensive display throughout the game and, when Mooncoin did manage to create openings, the Paulstown defenders were equal to the challenge. They defended collectively, covered intelligently and refused to allow their opponents the clear goal chance they desperately needed.

Indeed, the outstanding feature of the Barrow Rangers display was the contribution of every member of the team.

This was not a day when one individual could be singled out as the difference between the sides. From goalkeeper

SCORERS BARROW RANGERS: Joe Healy (1-6, 0-5 frees), Billy Hanlon (1-3), Jack Kelly (0-4), Killian Rudkins (0-2), Keith Flavin, Gary Hill, Kieran O’Neill, Patrick Purcell, Mikey Doyle, Shane McDonald (0-1 each).

MOONCOIN Killian Hogan (0-8, 0-3 frees), Martin O’Neill (0-3), Paul Hennebry (0-2), Robbie Doherty (0-2, 0-1 frees), Liam Hogan (0-2, 0-1 frees), Cormac Kinsella, Adam Croke (0-1 each).

TEAMS BARROW RANGERS: Richie Doyle, Paul Delaney, Martin Drea, Kevin Brennan, Cillian Rudkins, Kieran O’Neill, Patrick Purcell, Jack Kelly, Marc Drennan (C), Kevin Flavin, Billy Hanion, Mikey Doyle, Joe Healy, Gary Hill, Shane McDonald. Substitutes: Brian Kelly for Gary Hill, Cathal Purcell for Kieran O’Neill (blood sub), James Hogan for Patrick Purcell.

MOONCOIN: Donnacha Hogan, Ryan Carroll, Cormac Daly, Ben O’Hanion, Aidan Doyle, Liam Hogan, Cormac Kinsella, Mark Kearns, Killian Hogan, Paul Henebery, Jim Delahunty, Robbie Doherty, Martin O’Neill, Billy Delahunty, Adam Croke. Substitutes: Aidan Carroll for Martin O’Neill, James O’Keeffe.

Referee: John Kennedy (Shamrocks Ballyhale).

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Sport

Windgap survive Cloneen challenge after thrilling Jenkinstown encounter

By Jimmy Walsh Photographs by Catherine Power and ANO Windgap eventually emerged with a comfortable-looking 3-27 to 3-11 victory over Cloneen in this first-round JJ Kavanagh and Sons Premier Junior Hurling Championship knockout clash at Jenkinstown on Saturday. However, the final margin did not tell the full story of an entertaining and at times highly competitive contest, particularly during a thrilling opening half when the momentum swung dramatically from one side to the other.

Both clubs entered the game determined to put recent firstround disappointments behind them, and there was an obvious hunger on both sides from the opening whistle.

There was also an interesting subplot to the contest, with both teams managed by former Windgap colleagues Phillip Lonergan and Matthew Enright. The game was played in excellent conditions on a superb billiard-table surface, while the surrounding Conahy Shamrocks facilities, including their new wall ball, astro-turf and parking area, were bathed in warm sunshine.

Windgap faced a light breeze towards the city end, and it was Cloneen who opened the scoring when Eoin Regan converted an early free. Windgap responded in style. Billy Power pointed a free before Jack Doyle added two further scores following good work from Adam O’Shea to put the south Kilkenny side 0-3 to 0-1 ahead after just three minutes.

The pace was fast and the exchanges robust, with neither side prepared to concede an inch.

Regan converted his second free before Cloneen struck for the opening goal. Brian Cahill supplied the assist, setting up Michael Doyle from a Garry Delaney puck-out, and Doyle made no mistake as Cloneen moved 1-2 to 0-3 ahead.

Windgap responded with a point from Conor Doyle, but Michael Doyle was soon celebrating again. Just three minutes after his first goal, he found the net for a second time when a direct, route one ball caused problems in the Windgap defence.

The green and white-clad Cloneen supporters were now enjoying themselves as their

side moved four points clear, 2-2 to 0-4, with only nine minutes played.

Windgap refused to panic. Two points followed, although Brian Cahill managed to reply with a single for Cloneen, leaving the score at 2-3 to 0-6 after 12 minutes. Then came Windgap's most productive spell of the first half. They began to find greater space in attack and hit 2-4 without reply, apart from a single response from Brendain Buggy. The goals were particularly well constructed. Adam O’Shea turned provider for Jack Doyle for the first, before O’Shea himself got on the scoresheet with Windgap's second goal.

Suddenly the complexion of the game had changed completely. Windgap were now 2-10 to 2-4 ahead after 20 minutes and looked to have seized control. Regan won and converted another Cloneen free, while Billy and James Power added points for Windgap as they stretched their advantage to 2-12 to 2-4.

Yet Cloneen were not prepared to allow the game to drift away from them.

Their tackling, harrying and blocking became increasingly effective and two points from Brian Cahill and Padraig Cooney reduced the deficit.

Then came one of the most dramatic scores of the opening half. Regan was presented with a 20-metre free and, with the Windgap goalmouth packed with defenders, he drove the ball through the crowded goal line and into the net. What had been a seven-point Windgap advantage was suddenly reduced to just two, with Cloneen trailing 2-12 to 3-7.

The pendulum had swung yet again. Billy Power steadied Windgap nerves with a point before the interval, leaving the sides separated by three points at the break, 2-13 to 3-7. It had been a hugely entertaining first half, with both teams showing enough attacking quality to suggest that the second period could be equally dramatic.

Cloneen made the brighter

Cloneens Francie Ward tries to close down Killian Enrights shot for Windgap.

Pat Power wins the catch for Windgap against Cloneen.

Darragh O'Shea tries to gain midfield possession

The ball evades the high flying backs and forwards.

start to the second half, with centrefielders Padraig Cooney and Thomas Ryan winning a free from the throw-in. Ciaran Cooney converted and suddenly it was a two-point game, 2-13 to 3-8. On reflection, however, that was as close as Cloneen would get. Windgap gradually took control around midfield and began to pile on the pressure. Seven unanswered points followed, although they were accompanied by as many wides, as Windgap moved 2-20 to 3-8 ahead approaching the final quarter.

Cloneen continued to threaten and Eoin Regan twice went looking for the goal that could have transformed

A spot the ball between in the Cloneen verses Windgap.

the contest. On one occasion, after another free had been advanced to the 20-metre line, Regan went for goal. On another, his mazy run towards the Windgap defence looked certain to create danger before William Phelan produced a timely block to deny him.

Francie Ward reduced the deficit with a pointed midfield free, but Windgap finished strongly. Padhraic Foley, Sean Purcell, Conor Doyle, substitute Michael Power, Billy Power and Jack Doyle all contributed points as Windgap added seven further scores, while Cloneen could manage just two late points from Eoin Regan frees.

The decisive third Windgap goal came after another verbal exchange, with the subsequent free advanced to the 20-metre line. Windgap took

full advantage, finding the net with what was effectively the penultimate score of the contest. It put an emphatic gloss on the final scoreline of 3-27 to 3-11.

The margin, however, gave an unbalanced appearance to a contest that had been anything but one-sided for long periods. Cloneen deserve considerable credit for the way they competed, particularly during the opening 35 minutes when they twice established strong positions and showed excellent resilience after Windgap's two-goal burst.

For Windgap, the victory represents valuable progress in the knockout championship, but there will also be plenty for them to reflect on. Their scoring return was impressive, yet the number of wides and the spells when Cloneen were able to turn the momentum will provide food for thought.

Ultimately, though, Windgap had the greater strength in depth and finished the contest with authority. After a first half full of twists and turns, they finally secured their place in the next round, while Cloneen can take encouragement from a performance that, for much of the afternoon, suggested they were more than capable of competing at this level.

TEAMS AND SCORERS Bearna na Gaoithe; Eoin O’Shea, Peter Landy, Willie Phelan, Sean Foley, Pat Power, Séan Purcell 0-2, Darragh O’Shea, Killian Enright, Pat Grace, Billy Power 1-9, 1-6 frees, James Power 0-1, Jack Doyle 1-6, Conor Doyle 0-5 Adam O’Shea 1-1, Padraic Foley 0-1, Subs; Michael Power 0-2, Sean Barron, Séan Power, James Purcell.

Cloneen; Gary Delaney, John Kelly, Brian MacDonald, Gearoid O’Neill, Ciaran Cooney 0-1, Harry Roche, Malachy Flaherty, Francie Ward, Padraig Cooney 0-1, 0-1free, James Love, Brian Cahill 0-1, Ashley Kerr 0-1, Michael Doyle 2-0, Eoin Regan 1-9. 1-9 frees, Brenainm Buggy 0-1.

Subs: Phillip Roche, Ronan Lynch, Dean Shortall. An réiteoir Anthony Barcoe All eyes on the ball as Cloneen defend the 20 metre line against Windgap.

Windgap's Conor Doyle tries to set up an attack against Cloneen.

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Sport

Graiguenamanagh overcome Galmoy challenge in Palmerstown thriller Jim Whelan report and photographs.

Palmerstown, the home of Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club, provided the setting for an entertaining and at times dramatic first-round encounter in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Premier Junior Hurling Championship on Sunday last, where Graiguenamanagh eventually edged past Galmoy on a scoreline of 0-28 to 4-11.

There was plenty at stake for both sides, with Graiguenamanagh seeking revenge for last year's championship defeat at the hands of their northern opponents, while both teams were also anxious to bounce back after suffering defeats in their most recent league outings.

Graiguenamanagh had gone down to Piltown, while Galmoy had been beaten by Cloneen, leaving both camps determined to put those disappointments behind them and make a positive start to their championship campaigns. Galmoy were unchanged for the first-round clash, while Graiguenamanagh introduced three new faces to their starting line-up as they looked to freshen things up for the knockout encounter.

There was a nervous open-

ing to the contest, with both sides guilty of some early poor wides as the players settled into the game. Graiguenamanagh eventually opened their account when Cian O'Shea registered two quick points.

Galmoy responded through the free-taking ability of Billy Drennan, who converted two placed balls to level matters before Pierce Blanchfield edged Graiguenamanagh back in front.

The game burst into life in the seventh minute when Galmoy midfielder Ryan Murphy produced the first goal of the afternoon. Murphy collected possession and unleashed a brilliant effort from around the 14-yard line which flew past the Graiguenamanagh defence and into the net.

Graiguenamanagh goalkeeper Colin Bolger had little opportunity to prevent what was an excellent finish.

The Barrow-side responded in impressive fashion and began to find their range from distance. Richard Foley was particularly prominent from centre-back, while Stephen Kinsella and Pierce Blanchfield also contributed some excellent long-range scores.

Galmoy were unhappy in the 14th minute when they felt they should have been

awarded a penalty. Corner forward Niall Drennan was brought down inside the danger area, but the referee waved play on and a yellow card was subsequently shown to Graiguenamanagh corner-back Eoin O'Brien.

Billy Drennan made sure that Galmoy gained some reward from the incident, converting the resultant 21-metre free.

The exchanges were becoming increasingly competitive, with both teams showing plenty of determination and neither prepared to give the opposition an easy route to goal. Richard Foley continued to impress for Graiguenamanagh and struck two more excellent long-range frees as the Barrow men attempted to establish control. However, Galmoy had their own out-

standing marksman in Billy Drennan.

The dangerous forward collected possession around the 21-metre line and made no mistake, rattling the Graiguenamanagh net with a powerful finish to bring Galmoy right back into contention.

Drennan followed the goal with another pointed free, keeping the northern side firmly in touch.

Graiguenamanagh, however, finished the half strongly.

Points from Cian O'Shea and Pierce Blanchfield helped them regain the initiative and, when the half-time whistle sounded, they held a narrow advantage. Graiguenamanagh 0-14, Galmoy 2-6.

Galmoy could hardly have wished for a better start to the second half. A long-range free

from Billy Drennan appeared to be intended as a point but ended up in the back of the Graiguenamanagh net, giving Galmoy their third goal of the contest and putting them one point ahead. At that stage the northern side looked to have gained the momentum they needed.

Unfortunately for Galmoy, however, that proved to be their last score for a remarkable 17-minute period.

Graiguenamanagh responded with one of the most decisive spells of the contest. The green and white hoops took complete control and began to pile on the pressure, firing over ten unanswered points. Stephen Kinsella was particularly influential from centre forward, while Pierce Blanchfield and Richard Foley continued to punish Galmoy from distance. The sustained scoring burst transformed the contest.

Graiguenamanagh had gone from being a point behind to establishing a significant advantage, and their ability to keep the scoreboard moving during that crucial period ultimately proved decisive. Galmoy, to their credit, refused to surrender. With the game entering its final quarter, they began to throw everything they had at the Graiguenamanagh defence. Their renewed pressure created several openings and forced goalkeeper Colin Bolger into two excellent saves.

Those stops were vital. Had either effort found the net, the closing stages could have taken a completely different turn. Instead, Bolger's interventions ensured that Graiguenamanagh retained their advantage as the game entered its final five minutes.

And there was still plenty of drama to come.

Graiguenamanagh captain James Meaney was shown a yellow card following a late challenge on Galmoy substitute Odhran Moloney. Once again, Billy Drennan stepped forward for Galmoy. The free was brought forward to the 21-metre line and Drennan opted to go for goal. His effort was struck high and hard and ended up in the roof of the net, giving Galmoy their fourth green flag and setting up a tense finish.

The late goal gave the northern side renewed hope, but Graiguenamanagh held their composure. They defended resolutely and refused to

allow Galmoy the opportunity to find another opening.

Further points from Cian O'Shea and Jack Ryan helped settle the nerves and ensured that the Barrow men would emerge with a hard-earned victory. When the final whistle sounded, Graiguenamanagh had secured a 0-28 to 4-11 victory.

In truth, the final scoreline was a little harsh on Galmoy, who had battled bravely and threatened at various stages. Their four goals demonstrated their ability to punish mistakes, while Billy Drennan once again proved a major threat.

However, their 17-minute scoring drought after the interval ultimately proved hugely costly. Against a Graiguenamanagh side with the scoring power to punish any lapse, such a barren spell was always likely to prove decisive.

For Graiguenamanagh, this was a valuable championship victory and one that should give them considerable confidence going forward.

Their ability to recover from conceding three early goals, dominate the middle portion of the second half and withstand Galmoy's late surge showed considerable character. The performances of Richard Foley, Stephen Kinsella, Pierce Blanchfield and Cian O'Shea were central to the victory, while goalkeeper Colin Bolger's two late saves were every bit as important as the points at the other end.

Graiguenamanagh now advance to the second round where they face Windgap on Sunday next at Ballyhale, with the action getting underway at 12 noon.

For Galmoy, the championship journey has unfortunately come to an end.

They had hoped to build on last year's excellent championship run, but a difficult season, compounded by a series of injuries, made their task considerably harder this year. They can nevertheless take some encouragement from aspects of their display and, with a number of players returning from injury in the future, they will hope to come back stronger.

For Graiguenamanagh, however, the focus now turns firmly towards Windgap and another important championship test.

TEAMS Graiguenamanagh: Colin Bolger, Dylan Cahill, Ivan Bolger, Owen O Brien, Joe Dowling, Richard Foley, James Meaney, Sean Walsh, Cain O Shea, Pierce Blanchfield, Jack Ryan, Steven Kinsella, Sean O’Grady, Ted Dunne, Seamus Kavanagh. Subs Conor Houlihan, Terry Dreelan, Thomas Ryan.

Galmoy: Joe Dollard, Sean Phelan, Kieran Phelan, Colman Moloney, Conor Grace, Conor Drennan, Gearoid Phelan, Oisin Phelan, Ryan Murphy, Callum Lonergan, Billy Drennan, Brandan Phelan, Niall Drennan, Jason Stanley, Dylan Grace.

Subs, Nigel Stanley, Odran Moloney.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Hurling matters - Preview

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Saturday sees the first silverware at senior level on Noreside up for grabs as the 2026 St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League Final and Shield deciders take place at Kilkenny GAA headquarters. First up at 2pm is the meeting of O’Loughlin Gaels and Graigue Ballycallan in the Shield final, while at 4pm, Shamrocks Ballyhale clash with Thomastown in the main event. As usual, both games will finish on the day, so the prospect for some exciting hurling lies in store at UPMC Nowlan Park tomorrow.

As we move towards the business end of the club season on Noreside, it will be interesting to see how the quartet of teams competing for tomorrow’s silverware line out, will they go full strength or try and get some minutes into the legs of those players that haven’t seen as much action during the group stage.

I’d imagine it will be a mixed bag when the line-ups are announced in headquarters. Given the load on players, the last thing managers will want are injuries to key players as we slip into championship mode.

For the teams involved in relegation matters, they perhaps don’t have the luxury of resting and rotating, as so much is on the line.

The Shield final pits 2023 County Champions O’Loughlin Gaels against Graigue Ballycallan, the latter narrowly missing out on a place in the league final, following a round 5 defeat to Glenmore. What a turnaround it has been for Richie O’Neill’s side in 2026 as they put

Final four out to claim league prizes in some fine displays in Group A following their struggles last season, when they defeated Lisdowney in the relegation decider to retain their senior status. The fact that they have been without their talisman, intercounty star, Billy Ryan shows the quality hurlers that are plying

their trade at Tom Ryall Park. In Ryan’s absence, Aaron McEvoy has really stood up and been the sky blue’s top scorer and the man that keeps the scoreboard ticking over. McEvoy along with Jesse Roberts, Ryan Corcoran and Conor Flynn have been in good form and GBC main man....

Aaron Mc Evoy

attacking with real purpose through the group stage. With Jeff Neary patrolling the middle of the park and captain Tom Dunphy doing likewise at fullback, GBC have been a breath of fresh air this season.

Brian Hogan will have prepared for this game with an eye on the coming weeks. The Kilkenny U20’s boss has had to shuffle his pack many times this season as injuries have plagued the St Johns Park side.

With Huw Lawlor off travelling, they have also been missing the dynamic Jordan Molloy, David Fogarty, Owen Wall and experienced duo, Mark Bergin and Conor Heary for much of the action to date. The latter two men have recently returned to the panel with Heary seeing some minutes and showing his class, notching

Conor Heary will hope to see Shield action

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

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Hurling matters - Preview John Donnelly will hope to inspire Thomastown

some nice scores. The name on everyone lips when it comes to O’Loughlin’s this season has been Ruarc Sweeney, the young man has gone goal crazy and has led the forward line well,

troubling most defences that he has come up against. Two players that have also been in good form for Hogan’s charges are Fionan Mackessy and Conor Kelly. The former Kerry star has hit some monstrous scores and looked very much the part, especially when deployed at ‘6’. The accuracy of Conor Kelly from placed balls has been vital, while Robbie Buckley and Cian Byrne have been in menacing form. With the experienced Stephen Murphy in goals, his restarts are crucial in getting the Loughs on the front foot.

This game could go either way, but history sees O’Loughin’s go in as favorites, but Richie O’Neill’s team will give it a good lash.

The two most recent sides to claim the Tom Walsh Cup will contest the league decider at 4pm.

Shamrocks Ballyhale have hit the ground running from round 1 of this league campaign, something that they are perhaps not renowned for. Mark Aylward’s side had a perfect record ahead of their round 5 clash with struggling Danesfort, and they lost their unbeaten record, going down by 3 points, having made several changes to their lineup. Take nothing away from the ‘Fort; they deserved the victory on the day. Again, the Shamrocks bainisteoir may opt to rest the likes of TJ and Richie, Joey Holden and Adrian Mullen and give another chance to others ahead of bigger games over the coming weeks.

Eoin Cody and Niall Shortall were two players not afforded a rest last time out, and both did well in the defeat to Danesfort, contributing eleven points between them.

Darragh Corcoran has been ever present in the half back line and continues to look a class act. The emergence of Killian Ryan and continued improvement in Killian Corcoran have been vital for the Páirc na Seamróg sides defence, which will aim to tighten up with championship tests ahead. Mikey Barron is another youngster to catch the eye, especially when being sprung from the bench and he will be keen to get more action under his belt in UPMC Nowlan Park

Dean Mason will look to shut out Clan Donnelly & The ‘Town

tomorrow.

For Thomastown, they emerged as winners in Group A, three wins, one loss, and a draw as they qualified for the league final. Noel Doherty’s charges had the best defensive record of all twelve senior teams, and this is going to be key for them as they try to get the better of Shamrocks tomorrow, and back to the form of 2024 that saw them oust O’Loughlin Gaels as County champions. As usual,

this ‘Town side are back boned by Clan Donnelly who have delivered for their side in spades this season.

Robbie’s accuracy has been to the fore for Doherty’s outfit, while Stephen and John are vital cogs in the Thomastown machine. Luke Connellan continues to develop while Peter McDonald puts in a serious shift every time, he dons the club colours. Zach Bay Hammond has been getting some minutes again and he can bring great drive

to the side. Captain Eddie Donnelly and Brian Staunton anchor the meanest defence in the Marble City, while Peter Connellan is maturing nicely in the full back line.

Both finalists would take the win, but both are hoping and expecting bigger days ahead, hopefully into October. Perhaps some shadow boxing at headquarters tomorrow, but for two sides, there will be silverware lifted with knockout action on the horizon.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

A big double header at headquarters tomorrow. The question may be – who wants to win, do teams risk their main men with a bigger prize down the road? Perhaps for Graigue Ballycallan the chance to secure silverware and build momentum could see them go more full tilt than the other three teams on duty in UPMC Nowlan Park. Hopefully there will be a sizable crowd in attendance for the games.

Last weekend saw the conclusion of the Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Intermediate Hurling League, with James Stephens and Lisdowney taking the league and shield titles respectively. The Village ran out 5-points winners over Dunnamaggin despite Cian Kenny not being involved on the day. Tadhg O’Dwyer top scored for The Village, hitting 0-11, while the majors came from Willie Spencer and Eoin Guilfoyle. The towering Ed Lauhoff did well from the engine room, notching 0-3 while fellow Ed; McDermott hit 0-2. Denis Walsh was Dunnamaggin’s main man, finishing his afternoon’s work with 0-15 while Brian Hickey registered 0-3.

In the Shield final, Lisdowney overpowered Rower Inistioge with 12 points the difference at the long whistle.

Majors from Luke Holohan and joint captain, Richie McEvoy saw Lisdowney hold a double score lead by the 47th minute and they were never really troubled in truth by a much-changed Inistioge side. Richie Leahy did his bit, hitting 1-6, but the loss of Eoghan Lyng in the 29th minute and an opening period scoring drought that lasted some 19 minutes left the Rower too much to claw back. Comhghairdeas James Stephens and Lisdowney, two teams with senior desires.

Eoin Guilfoyle gets his shot in on goal tackled by Ian walsh

James Stephens League Winners

Luke Holohan drives out with the ball

Lisdowney Shield Winners

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 18th September 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We David Dowling and Katie O Connor wish to apply to Kilkenny County Council for full planning permission to construct a new dwelling, waste treatment system and all associated site works at Davidstown, Slieverue, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, 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.

We, Brian and Aine Spratt, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Permission, to retain indefinitely an existing garden shed and all associated site works at the front of our existing dwelling house at 136 Chestnut Drive, Rath Ullord, Kilkenny R95 F68A. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

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

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

ÚNA MAHONY (NEE FOLEY) ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND MONTHS MIND The family of the late Úna Mahony (Nee Foley) 24, Fr. Murphy Square Kilkenny would like to express our sincere thanks to all who supported us during our recent sad loss of our dear mother, granny, great granny and sister Thank you to everyone who sent mass cards, floral tributes, and messages of sympathy, and to those who attended the funeral.

A special word of thanks to Fr. Mark Condon for his care for our mother, and for his comfort, guidance, and beautiful service. We also extend our gratitude to Shasby Funeral Directors for their exceptional kindness, professionalism, and support.

PAULA KEALY 2ND ANNIVERSARY

PETER GAULE 25TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Paula whose anniversary occurs on September 23rd.

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

Loved and missed by her daughters Paula and Jemma, son John, grandchildren, sister Liz, brothers John and Ken, family and friends.

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

Never more than a thought away Loved and missed everyday Rest in peace Paula

Our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Patrick Street Medical Centre and the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare Team for their wonderful care and kindness, and to her niece Caroline Egan for her dedicated care and support.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude.

The Month’s Mind Mass for Úna will be held on 20th September 2026 at 11am in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

St. Anthony Prayer

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

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

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

From your friends Des and Carmel

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.R.

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Classifieds

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