Kilkenny Observer 18th July 2025

Economic outlook tariffic

Harris warns a 30% tari on exports to US could spell gloom

A 30% tari on EU exports to the US could have a signi cant impact on Ireland’s economy, which could include potential job losses at a faster pace, Tánaiste Simon Harris has warned the Cabinet.

With no promises of one-o welfare payments in Budget 2026 and the hospitality industry su ering because o rising

costs and energy food prices among the highest in the EU, the future is looking pretty gloomy.

e EU and US had been engaged in negotiations ahead of a deadline last week, but US President Donald Trump announced he was pushing back the imposition of a higher rate of tari s until August 1.

McGuinness to chair Regional Assembly

A Kilkenny politician has been elected to a prominent position representing the southern region which includes six counties in Munster and three in South Leinster.

Councillor Andrew McGuinness of Kilkenny County Council, has been elected as the Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly for the 2025-26 term. Cllr McGuinness succeeds Cllr Ken Murnane, of Carlow County Council.

Cllr McGuinness is a Fianna Fáil Councillor for the Kilkenny City Municipal District of Kilkenny County Council, and has served as Mayor of Kilkenny three times: in 2014, 2021, and most recently in 2024. He has also served as Chairman of Kilkenny County Council in 2020.

Upon his election, Cllr McGuinness said: “I am deeply honoured to assume the Chain of O ce as Cathaoirleach of the Southern Regional Assembly.

“ e role and responsibilities of the Regional Assemblies continue to grow in importance, serving as a vital regional tier of governance and a leading voice in promoting the regional dimension of economic and spatial development.

“I look forward to working in close collaboration with colleagues from across the political spectrum on the substantial programme ahead,” he said.

“Key among our priorities is the drafting of a new regional spatial and economic strategy for the Southern region.”

Congratulating the new Cathaoirleach, Director of the Assembly, David Kelly conveyed that he, together with all sta of the Assembly, eagerly anticipates working in partnership with Cllr McGuinness and all Assembly Members in the year ahead.

Donald Trump also said he would impose 30% tari s on the bloc if a deal was not reached, in a move that EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic said would make trade between the two regions almost “impossible”.

If negotiations on a deal fail and the EU imposes countermeasures worth €72bn, this

would hurt both the US and the EU, Mr Harris told ministers . Ministers were updated on plans to engage with the pharmaceutical industry in the last few days, a sector Mr Harris said was an area of signi cant concern for Ireland.

Meanwhile, Agriculture Minister Martin Heydon, who has been in Brussels for the EU Ag-

ri-Fish Council, said the mood has been one of calm.

Mr Heydon said the EU believed the [Trump] announcement was a negotiating tactic.

“ ere is a real resolve to continue with those negotiations in good faith. In one way, nothing has changed. Because it is still about August 1,” he told reporters.

“It’s not that long ago, 50% was being threatened. Now 30% is in a letter. We have to continue to negotiate in good faith,” he said. Mr Heydon said that, while more time to negotiate was welcome, there was signi cant concern over the uncertainty it was causing businesses.

2024 abortion gures at 10,852

e number of women having abortions in Ireland rose signi cantly last year to 10,852, the highest on record since the law changed. is compares to 8,156 terminations of pregnancy carried out here in 2022 under the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018.

Full report Page 10

Fears for our pubs’ future

Around 1,000 pubs could close over the coming decade, with fears Donald Trump’s trade tari s could worsen the landscape, a new report has warned.

e research – commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (Digi) – found that 2,119, or one in four, pubs have closed their doors since 2005. Digi has called for the Government to use the upcoming Budget to introduce a 10pc cut in excise duty, which it said was the second highest in the EU.

Special Report Page 14

Correction

In our report on ‘ e health dangers of processed meat’ published on Friday, July 11, the accompanying picture shows raw, red meat cuts, which have zero relevance to processed meats such as bacon, sausages, or ham. We apologise for any confusion.

See Marianne Heron, Page 12

Support for new, young parents well Connect-ed

Irish charity Community Connect has been awarded €5,000 in the latest Special Children & Young People Draw through the Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards, supported by Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland. is draw aims to support and highlight charities who are going above and beyond for a younger cohort, 23-years-old and under.

Community Connect, with hubs based out of Kilkenny,Dublin, Cork, Galway and Athlone, supports and provides essential funding and an inventory that supports pregnant women and new parents in a practical and tangible way, such as donations and accessibility to pre-loved children’s items.

is funding from the Movement for Good Awards will help this charity to continue to operate in its relevant counties and the surrounding area, to ease challenges faced by expecting parents and to continue to pioneer with Ireland’s rst ‘Baby Bank’ initiative.

At the heart of Community Connect is the desire to alleviate the burden on mothers and new parents by providing them with essential supplies to give children the best possible start in life. Currently, Community Connect

From us to you: members of Community Connect with their gi s of a helping hand for young parents

operates out of ve hubs across Ireland, with fantastic volunteers assisting in each location.

Speaking of the award, Elaine Noonan, CEO of Com-

munity Connect, said: “Community Connect is delighted to receive a €5,000 donation from the Benefact Group through the Movement for Good Awards Special Draw

– Children & Young People. is funding will make a signi cant impact on our ability to support pregnant mothers and families with young children in need

across Ireland by helping us expand our reach and respond to growing demand. With these funds, we will be able to deliver baby bundles lled with essential items

such as nappies, clothing, hygiene products and baby equipment to families facing poverty or crisis.

“ anks to the support from the Benefact Group, we are able to provide not just material support, but also relief and dignity to parents who are struggling to meet their children’s basic needs. is generous funding will directly contribute to a healthier, more hopeful start in life for babies and young children across Ireland.”

David Lane, Managing Director of Ecclesiastical Ireland, said: “At Ecclesiastical Ireland, proudly part of the Benefact Group, we are delighted to support charities that make a real and lasting impact in their communities. rough the Movement for Good Awards, we’re delighted to provide funding to incredible organisations like Community Connect, whose work with expectant mothers and new parents is truly inspiring.

“ It’s a privilege to play a part in helping them continue their vital e orts to ensure every child in Ireland has the best possible start in life.”

*For information on supporting the Movement for Good Awards, or to nominate a cause, visit www.

Mother & Baby home excavation to take two years

A major excavation of the mass, unmarked grave at the Tuam Mother & Baby home is continuing and is expected to take two years e excavation of the site in the Galway town will try to identify the remains of infants who died at the home between 1925 and 1961.

Archaeologists and other specialists have started

working at the site as part of the attempt to exhume and identify human remains.

In 2014, research led by local historian Catherine Corless indicated that 796 babies and young children were buried in a sewage system at the Galway institution across that time period.

St Mary’s home for unmarried mothers and their chil-

DJ Carey poses a crux for The Cats

Kilkenny missed out on the All- Ireland nal this year, but the Cats will have a presence on the pitch nonetheless at the Munster Old Firm derby of Cork and Tipperary on Sunday, July 20.

A traditional part of All-Ireland nal day is the presentation of the winners from 25 years ago to the crowd in Croke Park.

is year, that jubilee team will be the All-Ireland-winning Cats from 2000.

No doubt the Tipp and Cork fans on Hill 16 will give them a warm reception, but it also presents a diplomatic dilemma for the GAA.

Kilkenny’s man of the match 25 years ago, DJ Carey, is now back in the spotlight for altogether di erent reasons.

e former hurling hero has pleaded guilty to 10 counts of defrauding a number of people out of money while pretending that he had cancer.

Carey (54) stood in a courtroom dock this month and replied “guilty” each time as 10 deception charges were read out to him at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. Carey is on continuing bail for a sentence hearing to take place on October 29, so he is free to move about.

However, his appearance on the Croke Park pitch to be feted on All-Ireland nal day would raise eyebrows.

e GAA was contacted for comment to check on its plans for the Kilkenny jubilee team and whether Carey will be invited to attend.

e association now has

dren in Tuam was run by the Bon Secours Sisters, a religious order of Catholic nuns. In 2021, Taoiseach Micheál Martin apologised on behalf of the State for the treatment of women and children who were housed in mother and baby homes across Ireland.

e Bon Secours Sisters also o ered a “profound apology” after acknowledg-

ing the order had “failed to protect the inherent dignity” of women and children in the Tuam home.

A visit for families and survivors to view the site took place on Tuesday, July 8. Anna Corrigan, who discovered that she had two older brothers who were born while her mother was a resident at the Tuam home,

said it was a welcome but difcult day.

Ms Corrigan has instructed KRW Law to launch High Court civil proceedings against a number of agencies and institutions including the Order of the Sisters of Bon Secours over the circumstances surrounding the death and disappearance of her brothers.

“While it’s a relief to see work started on the site, it’s really only the latest stage in what is still a long road for all of us,” she told the Irish Independent.

“What happened at Tuam was criminal, so there needs to be both church and State accountability.

“ ey have a complicity in all of this as well.”

to decide how to treat his name being prominently on the team sheet of the county being honoured.

e jubilee team presentation used to take place at half-time in the match. But the slot has changed now to before the game.

e anniversary team marches out onto the pitch behind a member of the Artane Boys Band carrying their county ag.

e team captain holds aloft the Liam MacCarthy Cup. And then each player is introduced to the crowd, with a description of their performance on the day and a summary of their career.

e GAA will now have to decide how to handle the calling out of DJ Carey on the Kilkenny team next Sunday. It is highly unlikely he will be in attendance himself.

e Kilkenny County Board was unavailable for comment when contacted by the Irish Independent.

Carey pleaded guilty on July 3 to dishonesty by deception, inducing victims to make monetary payment to him after he fraudulently claimed to have cancer and needed nances to obtain treatment.

e o ences happened at unknown locations within the State on dates between 2014 and 2022.

e 13 victims named in the case were Owen and Ann Conway, Mark and Sharon Kelly, Denis O’Brien, Aidan Mulligan, Tony Gri n and Christy Browne, omas Butler, Je rey Howes, Noel Tynan, Edwin Carey and Aonghus Leydon.

Insurance ‘a rip-off cycle’

Sinn Fein MEP for Ireland

South Kathleen Funchion has reiterated her call for Brussels to act on Irish insurance prices saying that “Irish insurance holders are stuck in a rip-off cycle”.

Speaking from Strasbourg, MEP Funchion said: “It seems Irish insurance holders are stuck in

some kind of rip-off cycle when it comes to motor insurance.

“They are now paying nearly twice the EU average - the highest it has been in five years.

“People and families who need to drive every day just to get to work, to school and to just live

their lives are suddenly facing unexplained rises in a basic cost,” she said.

“They have done nothing wrong, nothing has changed, except suddenly they have yet another increase in the cost of living on top of all the other cost increases.

“Last time this cycle

came around the EU did eventually act. It put in place rules to prevent anticompetitive practices,” Funchion said “It’s time for Brussels to get back engaged because the Dublin government seems to have no intention of doing anything as usual.”

It’s coming ... a much improved bus service

e National Transport Authority (NTA), in partnership with City Direct, has announced a signi cant enhancement for the Kilkenny City Bus Service.

From Sunday, July 27, passengers will bene t from an additional 104 weekly services, representing a more than 12% increase in service levels.

e enhancements aim to provide a more reliable and frequent town bus service for the local community, strengthening connectiv-

ity across the town. ese improvements will support travel for work, education, and leisure, while also making it easier to access onward connections with national bus and rail networks.

Route KK1 will see an additional 26 weekly return services, while Route KK2 will bene t from an increase of 26 return services.

On weekdays, KK1 will operate 17 more return services, and KK2 will add 20 weekday return services. Saturday services will also

improve, with KK1 increasing by 4 return trips and KK2 by 3, while both routes will gain 4 additional return services on Sundays.

ese additional services will include new early morning and late-night services from Monday to ursday, as well as extra early morning services on Fridays and Saturdays. Passengers will also bene t from new early morning and late-night services on Sundays, providing greater exibility and accessibility. Furthermore, the departure

times for Route KK1 southbound from the Glenbawn terminus (formerly known as the N77 roundabout stop) will change to depart on the hour and half-past the hour, replacing the current schedule of departures at a quarter past and a quarter to the hour. Since its introduction in 2019, the KK1 and KK2 bus services have carried more than 1.4 million passengers. e annual ridership growing steadily from 107,000 in 2020 to more than 404,000 in 2024. Travel safely...

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

The Beep: call him what you will, he still rocks

BP Fallon once told me that he was to Rock ‘n’ Roll as a stamp was to an envelope. It’s also quoted in a new documentary, BP Fallon: Rock ‘n’ Rill Wizard featuring Bob Geldof, Adam Clayton, Jimmy Page, and Robert Plant which premiered at the Galway Film Fleadh on Saturday, July 12. Anyone familiar with Bernard Patrick Fallon would have to agree with Geldof who says: “I’m amazed there hasn’t been a film about BP Fallon before.” Happenstance has it that that same weekend also celebrated 40 years since Live Aid.

Born on August 24, 1946, BP Fallon or, more affectionately, The Beep, is a DJ, author, actor, a keen-eyed photographer, and musician with two critically acclaimed albums to his name. At just 17, Fallon became a personality and broadcaster in Ireland with

his own show on a fledgling Teilifis Eireann, later moving on to music journalism and photography.

In the late 1960s, Fallon moved to London to further his career. In March 1969, he scored a coup – an interview with John Lennon at the ‘bed-in’ in Amsterdam which was published in Melody Maker. The interview earned him some gravitas in the industry. This led to a further Lennon interview and a job at the Beatles’ Apple Records, working with publicist Derek Taylor. In 1970, he appeared on Top Of The Pops miming the tambourine in Lennon’s performance of Instant Karma. Fallon moved on to become publicist for Thin Lizzy and Marc Bolan and T.Rex. He worked with Led Zeppelin during the band’s heyday in the 1970s. During the punk years he represented Ian Drury and The

Blockheads.

He returned to Irish radio in the 1980s, and in 1986 won a Jacob’s Award for his 2FM show The BP Fallon Orchestra.

In the early 1990s. I was working at The Sunday Tribune. Fallon, who was writing a column for the paper, set off for America with Bono and U2 on their Zoo TV tour and subsequently wrote a book about his experiences titled U2 Faraway So Close.

The Beep had promised me an interview with the band. He gave me the phone number of the LA hotel they would be staying in, near his deadline. I gave him an extended deadline, and he promised to file 1,500 words by Thursday 3pm. Come Thursday 3pm and no word from The Beep. By 4pm, I was still facing a blank page. I rang the hotel and asked to be put through to his room.

“I’m sorry sir,” said the woman at the other end of the line, “but Mr Fallon said he was not to be disturbed for any reason.”

“But you don’t understand. I have a large hole in my paper...” I said, pleading.

“I’m sorry sir.” And then

“The stamp and the envelope, I mused...

click, and nothing. I never did get that promised copy, nor indeed any subsequent explanation. I could only deduce they were all ‘partying’, with a potentially potent party mix.

In July 1988 the legendary Michael Jackson played two sell-out concerts in Cork’s Pairc Ui Chaoimh. It was one of the biggest ‘ligs’ ever for the Irish media and his wife. We all travelled from Dublin by train, aboard which the champagne flowed freely. A huge marque had been erected just outside the playing field’s main gate. And there was even more champagne, caviar and whatever you were having yourself.

At one stage I went outside for a smoke and was handed my get-back-in pass by the burly security guard. And there sitting on the embankment, looking somewhat forlorn in his always-on bowler hat and

dark spectacles, was the diminutive Beep.

“Are you coming in for bubbly,” I asked. He said: “I don’t have an invite for the pre-gig lig. Must have got lost in the post.”

The stamp and the envelope, I mused. And the man who has done more for rock ‘n’ roll single-handedly –ask Geldof, ask Jagger, ask Bono – with no pass for the inn.

“Come on,” I said. “I’ll sneak you in...” And I wrapped my arm around his shoulder and managed – not sure how – to get the two of us back inside, past the burly security man. That evening was enthralling as I boogied the night away with King Boogaloo, another of his pseudonyms as was The Duke of Earl. These days BP Fallon spends his time between Dublin, Austin, Texas and New York City.

TD Natasha Newsome Drennan demands Irish banks stop selling mortgages to vulture funds

BY NATASHA NEWSOME DRENNAN TD

While speaking in the Dáil, Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan brought to the attention of An Taoiseach Micheál Martin the case of a struggling mortgage holder based in Kilkenny, highlighting the urgent need for support.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said:

“I raised with An Taoiseach the case of a woman in Kilkenny who is unable to work due to cancer treatment and has struggled with her mortgage as a result.

‘’Her mortgage was sold o without consultation

by PTSB to Mars Capital after being labelled underperforming. ere was zero compassion or understanding shown by PTSB, a majority stateowned bank.

‘’ is is an outrageous practice by PTSB – selling mortgages of cancer patients who are struggling to a vulture fund. is woman remains unable to work due to treatment, yet her interest rate has now shot up to over 6%, more than double the market average.

‘’I told An Taoiseach there must be an investigation into the outrageous pricing practices of these vulture funds, and an end to mortgage sales without consent for holders struggling with health issues. An Taoiseach’s dismissive response to this woman’s su ering is increasingly characteristic of this Government’s attitude, re ecting a broader pattern of indi erence and lack of empathy in dealing with serious personal and social issues a ecting citizens. is response is sadly becoming the norm.

“We urgently need an investigation into vulture funds’ pricing practices and a ban on mortgage sales without consent, especially for vulnerable homeowners facing serious health challenges. ese predatory actions exploit those in crisis and must be addressed immediately through regulation and accountability.”

Children's summer of fear

e Childline team are experiencing a signi cant increase in contacts now that the summer holidays are o cially in full swing. e longer days and the break from the routine of school life has led to an increased risk of isolation, exposure to danger online, abuse and neglect.

e end of the academic year means that many chil-

dren will lose connection with their friends from school and the support of the teachers around them.

Childline sta and volunteers report that sexual abuse contacts have increased by 10% during the summer holidays, while reports of physical abuse have risen by 24% at the same time.

Abby*, a teenager, said that

she hates being at home with her single mother who is an addict. She has become increasingly anxious as the summer term went on.

School is a salvation for her, a place to escape for a few hours from the chaos of her home life and the constant male callers. It’s also a place where she gets regular meals and she knows that her teach-

ers are looking out for her.

Jack*, whose parents have separated, dreads going on holidays with his mother’s new partner. He lives in fear that he will lose his temper and hit out at Jack and his younger sister.

For Jennifer*, the thought of months without her friends is devastating. She lives in the heart of rural Ireland and

loves school and hates the isolation of her home. She is worried that her friends will move on without her and she’ll lose them.

Elizabeth Donlon Fox, National Childline Listening Coordinator, hears similar stories on a daily basis: “It is horrifying to hear what so many children and young people have to endure. I was heartbroken

when talking to Finn* who con ded in me about the toll his emotionally abusive family takes on him. He says that he hates being at home. Unfortunately for many like Finn* summer is a time of heartbreak and not happiness.”

* Not their real names ** To support, please visit www.ispcc.ie.

A record of abortions at 10,852 since repeal law Popular café closes due to costs

e number of women having abortions in Ireland rose signi cantly last year to 10,852, the highest on record since the law changed.

is compares to 8,156 terminations of pregnancy carried out here in 2022 under the Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018.

e majority, 10,711, were early medical abortions, where a woman takes two types of tablet prescribed by a GP up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.

Another 108 terminations were due to a diagnosed fatal foetal abnormality where there was a condition likely to lead to death of the foetus.

A further 24 pregnancies were terminated due to risk to the life or health of the mother, while another nine involved an emergency intervention.

e most up-to-date gures for women from the Republic travelling to the UK have also been published and relate to 2022.

ey show that women going to the UK declined from 2,879 in 2018 to 201 in 2022.

In 2022, the proportion of abortions for women from the Republic in the UK under Ground C was 63% versus 50% in 2021.

Ground C in the UK allows for abortion if a doctor determines that continuing the pregnancy poses a greater risk to the woman's physical or mental health than terminating it, and the pregnancy is within the 24-week time limit.

e proportion of abortions performed under Ground E in the UK fell from 50% in 2021 to 37% in 2022.

is refers to where a foetus

has a substantial risk of being born with severe physical or mental disability.

About 3% of abortions involved pregnancies of less than 10 weeks.

e annual report from the Department of Health on terminations within Ireland last year shows the majority were carried out in January, totalling 1,056. e second highest gure of 967 related to May.

Dublin was the address given by 4,125 women, with 957 coming from Cork, 507 from Galway and 441 from Limerick. A total of 450 did not disclose their county and eight women travelled from Northern Ireland.

Dr Shirley McQuade, medical director of the Well Woman Centre, said she was surprised at the high number.

She said while the population has increased and would account for some of the rise, there are likely to be other factors also behind the increase.

She pointed out that free contraception is now available to women aged 17 to 35 years of age, which should make it easier to control fertility.

" e options are out there for women to use. Obviously there is a failure rate in contraception, but it is quite low,” she said.

" ere may be women who are on a form of contraception that is not suiting them or they are forgetting to take it. ere are women who avoid taking any form of contraception, but are not joining the dots.

"If they are sexually active and not using contraception, the likelihood is they are going to get pregnant.”

A popular café in Co Kilkenny has announced it has been forced to close its doors for good citing rising costs as the main reason behind the decision.

e Rosemary Tree Café on Market Street in omastown, took to social media to make the announcement.

"With immediate e ect

e Rosemary Tree Café

has closed down,” an announcement on theirFacebook page said. “Rising costs are the min cause.

"I would like to thank you all for your support over the years.”

e café, which is owned by Ada Doyle, has been a rm favourite among locals and visitors to omastown.

Reacting to the news, reg-

ulars at e Rosemary Tree Café said they were both shocked and saddened to see the much-loved local café close.

"What a loss to the town and community Ada,” commented one local. “I will really miss the feeling of welcome and friendliness always experienced when in your café.

“No more delicious

scones and cappuccinos. Take care Ada and thank you for everything you’ve done over the years,” they concluded.

“ is is very sad news for the town,” said the omastown Community Network.

“So Sorry Ada. e Rosemary Tree was always so supportive of the community.”

Geldof: 'Live Aid still resonates' 40 years on

Bob Geldof has said Live Aid still resonates today, 40 years on from the twovenue bene t concert which brought together a stellar cast of celebrity musicians.

e Dublin-born campaigner and rock star (73) said its resonance is why there are documentaries, radio programmes, and a musical dedicated to that day on July 13, 1985, “when something weird happened”. Ahead of a special gala performance of musical Just For One Day: e Live Aid

Musical, Geldof told the PA news agency: “I was at Oasis last night in Manchester, who were staggeringly brilliant.

“So I’m buzzing, and I’m still amazed that this old guy can be so thrilled by a great rock and roll band.

“But imagine 40 years ago, seeing all of the greatest rock and roll bands, one after the other, being exceptional for free, no contracts with anyone, they had to pay their own plane fares.

“For some reason, the performances were ‘other’, just

like the day itself”, he said.

“ ey rose way above and everyone hung around to watch each other.”

He continued: “I’ve never seen it (Live Aid) because I can’t watch or listen to myself. I can’t stand all the stupid things I say.

“But I saw the end of Live Aid two weeks ago, which was the Christmas song.

“And here are the greatest creative talents of the rock era, and it’s like the worst ever nativity play in school, like the kids haven’t learned the lines, the teachers are going nuts, and they all hung around. ey wouldn’t leave.” He continued: “ e sheer improbable exhilaration of it… that is what resonates… It’s a time when Britain did something profound with their American brothers.

“And I think it resonates particularly now, because in the sort of age of the death of kindness, which Trump and Vance and Musk have ushered in,” said Dubliner Bob Geldof.

As I See It

Marianne Heron

Carrying on in the face of uncertainty

Listening to Paschal Donohue is usually soothing. e Finance Minister is reassuring, his tone almost like a lullaby but the other day he startled me. In an interview on Newstalk, commenting on the current state of a airs, he said that uncertainty now was greater than during Covid. While there is no such thing as certainty, the thought was decidedly unsettling, especially when remembering the apocalyptic e ect of the pandemic when normal life shut down. Now we have the Trump unpredictability e ect, tari s threats and war on Ukraine and Gaza to upset things. On cue for unpredictability, the deadline to negotiate a trade agreement between the EU and US and avoid President Trump imposing tari s on imports into the US was shifted last week from July 9 to August 1, followed by threats to impose 30% tari s. Too much uncertainty

impacts both business and individuals. It can be a barrier to achieving objectives, where it’s not the uncertainty itself but the risk it poses to successful outcomes and worrying over the ‘what if ‘ element of uncertainty can add to stress. So how can we cope with the impact of not knowing what is going to happen? e challenge posed by the uncertainty over President Trump’s tari s on exports to the US, “can make a huge impact with the withdrawal of investment and when decisions are put on hold, “ says John Hurley CEO of the Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, representing 300 members employing around 30,000 in the city and county. “Local businesses are no stranger to facing challenges of uncertainty,” he said. “In the past decade we have had to grapple with Brexit which had a huge e ect, [UK] being our biggest market; Covid and the

knock-on e ect of the war in Ukraine which had an e ect particularly on the hospitality sector where the cost of energy went up hugely.”

Resilience is a word we hear a lot, says Hurley, and it seems local entrepreneurs are following the advice of Matt Watkinson, author of Mastering Uncertainty, by turning adversity to advantage and increasing the odds in their favour. Business strategies include seeking alternative markets and online marketing. “An important point is that people need to give to support to local businesses too,”says Hurley. e Kilkenny Gift Card scheme, which allows employers to reward sta tax-free, encourages this.

Red Sky Europe’s services are dedicated to helping customers ful ll their export objectives and the company were winners of the International Trade category in the Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce

Business Awards 2024. e company, founded by Ken Byrne in 2019, provides the logistics for their 60 clients to export to up to 150 countries

“ Things that help when the future isn’t clear is having support...

around the world and now employs 60. eir US-centric customers are keeping calm and carrying on,” e belief is that the tari situation will have to be resolved and they are holding rm, says Red Sky’s CEO Ger Egan. eirs is a positive story, where the service allows to concentrate of their core business while Red Sky provides support and expertise in areas like warehousing, VAT labelling and customer service and provides services via partnerships in export destinations.

On an individual level dealing with uncertainty may be unsettling but it can also be energising, acting as a wake-up call and a prompt to try di erent solutions. It is also about choosing to respond rather than to have a knee-jerk reaction to the cause of discomfort. Trump’s tari threats and the unpredictability of what he is going to do next to upset the status quo are

How do you know when to take a

multivitamin

designed to rattle us. Become afraid of him and we give him the power he wants to exert over us.

ings that help when the future isn’t clear is having support – friends or colleagues to talk things over with can help build con dence. Doing a stock take of your own strengths and using them to achieve something adds to a sense of mastery and being in control rather than being at the mercy of outside forces. Having a purpose and getting on with things that you can do, rather than fretting over things you have no control over provides a counterbalance to the unknown. Sometimes some of those old sayings are good to remember like the one that goes: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things that I can and the wisdom to know the di erence.”

How do you know when you need to take a multi-vitamin? I often get asked this. e answer depends on your diet and lifestyle. For example, if you have a healthy diet, moderate exercise, healthy sleep, and no stress in your life, then you probably don’t need a multi-vitamin. But, how many of us can honestly say that we are achieving these goals? I know I don’t, not every day.

I would say to you that if you are not sleeping, you’re tired, stressed, or you are busy and, on the go, then it would be a great idea to take a multi-vitamin to top up on some of the basic nutrients required for health. When you have a busy or stressful lifestyle, it can put your digestive system under pressure. is could lead to inadequate digestion and absorption of the food you are eating. Poor quality sleep can leave you tired, stressed, and irritable. So, with all this in mind I think most of us could do with topping up

with a multi-vitamin. I would always suggest taking good quality Omega Oils as well as most people do not achieve the levels required for health every day. I would highly recommend a multi-vitamin for poor eaters. You may also have a health condition that you are concerned with. In this situation I would probably also suggest a multi-vitamin and an Omega Oil to ensure that your base nutrient level is covered. In this instance myself or my colleagues would talk to you in more detail about what is going on for you. We would talk about foods to eat and not to eat to help you feel better. ere may be some lifestyle changes that you could make. en make suggestions to help you deal with the condition you are looking for help with. For example, we might suggest adding in Turmeric as a natural anti-in ammatory for pain, Ashwagandha for stress, or Magnesium for sleep. I think the answer is that most of us do need a multivitamin at some time or other. Always choose quality supplements with no llers, additives, binders, or arti cial ingredients. You can choose from capsules, powders, or liquids. We can help you gure out what would be the best option for you. Talk to us today.

CLAIR WHITTY

Hoteliers from across the country recently have met with TDs and Senators to discuss the key challenges facing Irish tourism and the necessary measures the Irish Hotels Federation is calling for to ensure the successful long-term development of Ireland’s largest indigenous industry, supporting over 270,000 livelihoods – including 6,600 in Kilkenny and Carlow.

In the run up to Budget 2026, a key concern for hotels and guesthouses across Kilkenny and Carlow is the exceptionally high operating costs that tourism and hospitality businesses are grappling with, a situation that is particularly challenging for regional businesses that are heavily reliant on food services.

Patrick Kickham-Lennon, Chair IHF South East Branch, said: “Tourism businesses are struggling to deal with ever-increasing operating costs and tighter margins. It is now essential that the Government tackles this head on and delivers targeted measures to enhance cost competitiveness and support business viability.

“ is is at a time when Irish tourism is experiencing di cult headwinds on a number of fronts, including reduced tourism expenditure, economic challenges across our key source markets and increased political uncertainty internationally – all of which pose a serious risk to our industry.”

Mr Kickham-Lennon notes that recent research by Fáilte Ireland* shows that 51% of tourism businesses have seen a decrease in revenues to date in 2025 compared with last year. Results indicate that overseas visitor spend, which typically accounts for 70% of tourism revenue, is a signi cant concern. is is particularly challenging for ‘Food & Drink’ businesses, with 75% reporting a drop in overseas revenue so far this year.

Outlining the key policy priorities for the industry, Mr

Ireland has seen the closure of more than 2,100 pubs since 2005, according to a new report, commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI). It found that on average 112 pubs stopped trading every year in the last 20 years.

DIGI said the report concluded the number of pubs in Ireland was continuing yo decline, with 2,119, or one in four, closing their doors since 2005. It shows between 2005 and 2024 the number of publican licences declined by almost 25%, from 8,617 to 6,498. Kilkenny has experienced a decline in the number of pubs, with a 21.7% decrease between 2005 and 2023. e report indicates that 49 pubs have closed in Kilkenny since 2005.

e report was compiled by economist and Associate

Hotels say business is ‘unsustainable’

Kilkenny and Carlow ‘grappling with high operating costs’

Kickham-Lennon stressed the importance of decisive action in the upcoming Budget.

Key policy priorities for Budget 2026

• A permanent restoration of the 9% VAT rate on hospitality food services. is is key to supporting the viability of our tourism food o ering.

• A meaningful reduction in Employers’ PRSI for labourintensive indigenous indus-

tries such as tourism and hospitality.

• Measures to tackle excessive business costs, which are amongst the highest in Europe, including insurance premiums and energy pass through charges.

• Increased investment in training, skills and development, leveraging the enormous un-tapped surpluses in the National Training Fund.

• Measures to support enhanced air access for Dublin and our regional airports.

2,100 pubs say that is last round lads ... for good

• Increased funding for Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland to support sectoral growth, marketing and development.

• More targeted measures to support sustainability initiatives within our sector in line with Ireland’s national climate action goals.

Having these measures in place would go a long way towards ensuring the longterm success of Ireland’s tourism and hospitality industry.

TOURISM AT A GLANCE

As

• 270,000 livelihoods supported by Irish tourism & hospitality

• 69,000 people directly employed by Irish hotels & guesthouses

• Regional employment – some 70% of tourism & hospitality jobs are outside of Dublin

• €10bn in revenue generated by tourism annually for the economy

• Over €2.9bn in taxes generated annually for the State by tourism-related activity

Professor Emeritus at Dublin

University Anthony Foley. According to the research, 26 counties experienced declines in pub numbers over the 2005 to 2024 period, with the rate of closure highest in

Ireland’s rural counties.

e highest decrease was in Co Limerick at 37.2%, followed by Co O aly at 34.1% and Co Cork at 32.7%, while the lowest decrease was in Dublin at 1.7%, followed by Co Meath at 9.5%, and Co

Wicklow coming in at 10.8%.

DIGI warned the research indicates that up to a further 600 to 1,000 pubs could close over the coming decade.

e report’s author, Professor Foley, said it reveals “a pattern of pub closures

across Ireland, particularly in rural Ireland in recent years”.

“ e addition of profound economic uncertainty through US trade tari s and reduced levels of inbound tourism further threaten the nancial foundations of family-owned pubs across the country,” he added.

Mr Foley said in the absence of Government intervention, “we are likely to see a further 600 to 1,000 pubs close over the coming decade”.

DIGI has called on the Government to cut excise duty by 10% in the Budget.

e Licensed Vintners Association Chief Executive and Secretary of DIGI claimed more than 100 pubs were closing every year in Ireland “due in large part to the high costs imposed by the State”.

“Without immediate intervention, up to 1,000 more

pubs will close for the last time, leaving their communities without a vital community and tourism hub,” Donall O’Kee e added.

Mr O’Kee e said the Government could improve commercial viability overnight by “cutting excise by 10%”. He said: “With Irish consumption of alcohol having fallen to average EU levels, and likely to continue dropping, it is no longer justi able that pubs should be faced with the second-highest excise rates in Europe.

“ is is on top of a hefty 23% VAT rate.”

DIGI said the report was prepared using data from the register of alcohol licences compiled by the Revenue Commissioners and analysed by the Vintners Federation of Ireland to eliminate other licenced enterprises such as hotels.

City

Ireland’s largest indigenous employer, a vibrant and thriving tourism and hospitality industry is vital for the country’s economic well-being:

Opinion

US Tariffs: why we’ll be alright on the night Your Money & You

Around the world leaders are warning about a looming debt crisis. Last year Germany’s leader Friedrich Merz pointed out that countries like France, Italy, and Spain owe more money than their economies make in a full year. France’s government collapsed last year while trying to cut spending by €60 billion to x their budget mess.

We could add the UK to that list with Keir Starmer dealing with internal strife in his own party as they try to get their nances under control. ey fear another market panic like the one that ended Liz Truss’s brief time as prime minister in 2022. en there is the US, where things look problematic. Donald Trump’s huge tax cuts, the biggest ever, are expected to add at least $3 trillion to America’s already massive $37 trillion debt.

Ray Dalio, who runs the world’s biggest hedge fund and authored a book called

John Ellis

How Countries Go Broke: e Big Cycle, says the US is at a turning point. By 2026, just paying interest on that

debt could cost over $1 trillion a year. is huge debt is like a heavy weight on the US risking its spot as the “world’s

main economic safety net.”

But in our Department of Finance things are relaxed! e issue is not nding

money but deciding what to do with all the extra cash coming in. Since 2015 Ireland has collected €156 billion from company taxes, including €11 billion from the Apple case last year.

Another €30 billion is expected this year all coming from big US companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft moving more of their pro ts here because of crack downs on tax loopholes. Of that only €16 billion, less than 10%, will be put away in the Infrastructure Climate and Nature Fund (ICNF) and the Future Ireland Fund (FIF) by the end of 2025. What happened to the rest?

According to the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council (IFAC) €27.2 billion went to pandemic aid and €7.7 billion to ease living costs in recent budgets, totalling €34.9 billion. e government says it was more like €47 billion with further funds covering health costs and other services as Ireland’s popula-

tion grew 15% to 5.4 million since 2015. Paschal Donohoe says this spending kept the economy strong with unemployment at a low 4% for decades and held national debt at €218 billion.

Still, experts like IFAC and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) say Ireland should hold back more. ey are concerned the tax money might not last forever especially if big companies leave due to trade issues or US tari s.

IFAC suggests simple steps: plan budgets over time, set rules for spending, consider future problems like an ageing population, climate change and save more while times are good. Ireland’s tax windfalls currently give us a bu er from global debt fears, but we need to be sharp by saving more and spending wisely thereby keeping things steady for the long haul.

john@ellis nancial.ie 086 8362633

Senator Frances Black to speak in Kilkenny public meeting How can we help Gaza?

“We’re seeing a live genocide happening in Gaza at the moment and the world is watching, and nobody is doing anything about it and this is one small step, one consequence towards real action that Ireland is going to take ” ese words of Senator Frances Black, about the proposed Occupied Territories law, are of real signi cance. We have all seen heart-breaking images of the deaths of children, men and women and the destruction, by bombing and starvation, being in icted on civilian life in Gaza. In communities across Ireland and world-

wide many of us have taken small steps, but e ective Government Action has not happened.

Frances Black, as an Independent Senator, has fought since 2018 in her campaign to get the Occupied Territories Bill passed, to introduce law in Ireland against trade in goods and services from lands illegally occupied by Israel. She has worked tirelessly to gather cross party support. is process is now at a critical point, with reworded draft legislation under scrutiny by the Oireachtas Foreign A airs and Trade Committee this week – and

verbal commitment from Government that it will back law on goods and possibly also services.

On Monday 21st of July

Frances Black will be speaking at the public meeting in Kilkenny to share her experiences on this campaign. Other speakers will be Senator Patricia Stephenson, who is Social Democrat spokesperson on Foreign A airs on the Finance Committee and Councillor Seán Ó hArgáin of the Labour Party who has campaigned for Palestinian Rights for decades. Both have spoken out on Palestine many times and they have

many times joined in the weekly Kilkenny vigil for a cease re in Gaza, held at the Parade every Wednesday 5.30 p.m. – 6.00 p.m.

Senator Patricia Stephenson said recently in the Senate “ e children of Gaza don’t need our sadness and our moral outrage – they need our courage and they need action = they need food they need water and they need the bombs to stop.” Councillor Seán Ó hArgáin has spoken out in Kilkenny County Council and recently brought forward a motion to the Council to take a clear stance on Gaza because, he says,

“the people who turn up on the Parade every Wednesday night for the last 18 months need their voices heard.”

If the Occupied Territories legislation is passed, Ireland will be the rst EU State to bring in sanctions against Israel. e expectation is that others would follow. In the 1980s the Dunne’s Stores workers in O’Connell Street refused to handle South African oranges and forged a path for boycott and sanctions against the Apartheid regime in South Africa that opened the way to the end of that regime. e meeting is being held

at the Club House Hotel, Monday 21st July, starting at 7 p.m. with no entry charge. Donations to UNRWA will be welcome. It is organised by Kilkenny Community Palestine Solidarity Campaign, a group of people from di erent parties and from no party. e Group are warmly inviting all community groups and individuals to come to the Public Meeting, to join in the vigil held on Wednesday evenings and to take part in the rst march for Palestine in Kilkenny, Saturday August 2nd, gathering at 1 p.m. beside the Castle Gates at the Parade.

Science & Wellbeing

Some 65 million years ago, an asteroid struck Earth, causing our planet’s 5th great mass extinction since the Cambrian explosion. Many have wondered why Jupiter, which allegedly protects the inner planets from catastrophic impacts, was unable to shield Earth from this one.

It turns out that thinking is all wrong; Jupiter is an existential hazard to Earth, making impacts far more likely. Here’s why our Solar System isn’t necessarily “lucky” to have Jupiter.

One of the greatest existential threats to life on Earth is a tremendous cosmic impact.Whether from an asteroid, comet, or even an interstellar interloper, an energetic-enough collision with Earth — typical of objects a few kilometres or larger in size — could easily cause a mass extinction event.

In the worst-case scenario, it could even completely sterilise a living world, bringing an end to a multibillion year chain of life.

ese events have, very likely, happened all across the Universe and even our Solar System for many billions of years. Most famously, 65 million years ago, a large asteroid impacted Earth, and wiping out 70% of all terrestrial species, including all of the (non-avian) dinosaurs.

Our Solar System’s most massive planet experiences these collisions more than 10,000 times as frequently as Earth, which led many scientists to believe that Jupiter serves as a great protector of the inner planets, and of Earth in particular.

ere’s more than a 70% chance all impacts our planet experiences wouldn’t have occurred without Jupiter being there. Here’s why it’s right to blame Jupiter for the extinction of the dinosaurs. Here on Earth, Chicxulub crater is one of the largest ancient impact craters ever found, with a diameter of 180 kilometres. e shallowocean impact caused a mass extinction event here on Earth; the creation of Pohl crater on Mars may have been quite similar some 3.4 billion years ago. Both of these events were random, but their probabilities were greatly increased by the potential of a large, massive planet

Why Jupiter is no friend of the Earth

to perturb the potential impactor’s orbit.

Of all the massive bodies orbiting the Sun, none are struck with anywhere near the frequency of Jupiter. It was only in the 17th century that the telescope was rst leveraged for astronomical purposes, and despite its primitive nature, the rst suspected impact on Jupiter was observed as early as 1690, when Giovanni Cassini’s observations of Jupiter revealed a darkened region that persisted for 18 days. Because of Jupiter’s large size (125 times the surface area of Earth) and intense

gravitational pull (about 318 times as strong as Earth’s), it makes absolute sense that Jupiter would be impacted far more frequently than Earth. is expectation was raucously con rmed over the past 45 years, beginning with Voyager 1’s rst yby of Jupiter in 1979.

A brief atmospheric “streak” appeared in one of the frames of Voyager 1’s camera, representing a capture of the very rst colide seen in the process of striking Jupiter. en, 15 years later, Comet ShoemakerLevy 9 revolutionised our understanding of collisions

in the Solar System, when a 2-5 kilomet wide object approached Jupiter, was torn into at least 21 pieces by Jupiter’s tidal forces, and then struck the planet, leaving scars that persisted for months.

In the subsequent time since, no fewer than 11 additional Jovian impacts have been recorded.

Drawing of Jupiter in 1690 by G. D. Cassini, reported in 1692 and brought into prominence in 1997 by Isshi Tabe, Junichi Watanabe, and Michiwo Jimbo.

Based on comets alone, one can conclude that

Jupiter might experience a signi cant, Shoemaker-Levy scale impact once every 5001000 years, while Earth will only experience one, at most, every several million years.

But it wasn’t a comet that wiped out the dinosaurs; it was certainly an asteroid, with the key evidence coming from the thin layer of iridiumrich material found all across the globe dating back to that event.

From the combined observations of: the energy of the impactor, the size of the crater (Chicxulub) created by the impact, and the abundances of the elements

that were deposited by the impact, it’s unambiguous that a rock-rich object, like an asteroid, and not an ice-rich object, like a comet, was the culprit.

So what, then, about asteroids (found interior to Jupiter), centaurs (found exterior to Jupiter but interior to Neptune), trojans (orbiting around the L4 and L5 Lagrange points of Jupiter), and other objects within the Solar System?

Does Jupiter truly o er a protective e ect to Earth, as has been widely assumed, or does it counter-intuitively make impacts more likely?

So, can AI chatbots really help your mental health?

Whether your brain is spiralling, sulking or just needs a nap, there’s a chatbot for that. But can AI really help your brain process complex emotions? Or are people just outsourcing stress to silicon-based support systems that sound empathetic?

And how exactly does AI therapy work inside our brains?

Most AI mental health apps promise some avour of cognitive behavioural therapy, which is basically structured self-talk for your inner chaos. But can a chatbot help you rewire your thoughts? Surprisingly, there’s science suggesting it’s possible. Studies have shown that digital forms of talk therapy can reduce symptoms of

anxiety and depression, especially for mild to moderate cases. In fact, Woebot has published peer-reviewed research showing reduced depressive symptoms in young adults after just two weeks of chatting. ese apps are designed to simulate therapeutic interaction, o ering empathy, asking guided

questions and walking you through evidence-based tools.

e goal is to help with decision-making and selfcontrol, and to help calm the nervous system.

e neuroscience behind cognitive behavioural therapy is solid: It’s about activating the brain’s executive control centres, helping us shift our attention,

challenge automatic thoughts and regulate our emotions.

e question is whether a chatbot can reliably replicate that, and whether our brains actually believe it.

A growing number of user surveys and clinical trials suggest that cognitive behavioural therapy-based chatbot interactions can lead to shorter improvements in

mood, focus and even sleep. In randomised studies, users of mental health apps have reported reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety –outcomes that closely align with how in-person cognitive behavioural therapy in uences the brain. Several studies show that therapy chatbots can actually help people feel better safest move.

1. Visit the Palace of Festivals

e Palace of Festivals is one of the top places to visit in Cannes. is massive convention centre is mainly famous for hosting the annual Cannes Film Festival.

e striking feature of the Palace of Festivals is the iconic 24 steps dressed in a red carpet that the movie stars walk during the lm festival.

e Palace of Festivals is only accessible with guided tours in July and August; tourists can only admire it from the outside the rest of the year.

2. Le Chemin des Etoiles

Right in front of the Palace of Festivals is the Chemin des Étoiles, or Cannes Walk of Fame.

Inspired by the iconic LA street, it features almost 400 handprints of the celebrities who have visited Cannes during the lm festival over the years.

Stroll the street to see life-size casts of the stars’ autograph names and dated handprints engraved in cement slabs with a silver or regional Provençal terracotta look.

Among the most famous handprints are the ones of Nicole Kidman, Angelina Jolie, Leonardo Dicaprio, Meryl Streep, Meg Ryan, and Quentin Tarantino. can’t miss the Chemin des Étoiles if you are a cinephile!

5. Rue d’Antibes

Cannes boasts many shopping opportunities. Besides La Croisette, Rue d’Antibes is another very pretty shopping street, with more budget-friendly stores.

You will nd it outside Cannes Old Town, and it is a wonderful place to mingle with locals and the rich and famous for a fun afternoon of shopping.

Rue d’Antibes features chic boutiques, international chains like Zara, and French fashion stores.

If shopping is not your thing, visit Rue d’Antibes anyway as it makes for a pleasant walk to admire architectural buildings deco-

10 you Cannes do

rated with sculptures by Pellegrini

6. Explore Le Suquet Perched on a hill just next to the port and overlooking the charming bay, Le Suquet is the ancient Roman settlement of the town. After ve centuries of Roman domain, the area became the property of Cistercian monks. e traces of this old history are still visible in Le Suquet neighbourhood, in its cobbled streets, winding alleys, and the Château de la Castre, the medieval castle-fortress. is neighbourhood, also referred to as the ‘Old Town of Cannes’ is perfect for a laid-back stroll, admiring pastel-coloured buildings with red-tiled roofs and soaking up an authentic atmosphere. Idyllic.

7. Musée des Explorations du Monde Housed inside an old medieval castle overlooking the Old Port, the Museum of the Explorations of the World was formerly Musée de la Castre. · e museum’s collection is impressive, showcasing art, antiquities, and archaeological relics from regions worldwide, from the Himalayas to Oceania to prehistorical Columbia.

is eclectic exhibit mostly comes from the private collection of a Dutch baron who donated it to Cannes.

While the museum is nice, the real draw is climbing the 109 steps of the historic watchtower to admire the incredible 360-degree views at the top over the Bay of Cannes.

is watchtower is included in your entrance ticket and is

in an outside courtyard from the middle of the museum.

8. Eglise Notre Dame de l’Esperance

Another must visit on Le Suquet Hill is the Eglise Notre Dame d’Espérance. is stunning Gothic church, the oldest in Cannes, dates back to the 15th century. is historic landmark blends di erent architectural styles, including a Romanesque bell tower and a Renaissance front porch.

e church interior is elegant, decorated with statues and two side chapels dedicated to the brotherhoods of craftsmen who worked on the church’s construction.

One particularly fun thing in the church is the display of Provencal dolls and gurines in various out ts and engaged in activities that are

typical for the region.

Given its location, the Eglise Notre Dame d’Espérance is a fabulous vantage point from which to enjoy the gorgeous views over Cannes.

In July, the courtyard before the church transforms into a lovely venue for the ‘Nuits Musicales du Suquet’ music festival.

9. Relax at the La Croisette Beaches

One of the best things about Cannes are its beaches. e beaches along La Croisette are particularly popular and are some of the best beaches on the French Riviera for soft sand.

e beaches at La Croisette are a mix of private and public. Hit the free Plage Macé and Plage de Casino for a great time, or choose one of the many private beaches

for the ultimate glamorous experience. In the summer months, La Croisette’s private beaches are frequented by the crème of Parisian society, models, and moguls – so get ready to enjoy fantastic cocktails and dishes.

10. e Plage du Midi Alternatively, head to the other side of Cannes for to recharge your energy at the Plage du Midi. Running along the Boulevard du Midi, the namesake beach is a free public beach, which means there aren’t sun loungers and umbrellas for rent – so join the locals and pop down a towel wherever you can nd a spot!

Around the Plage du Midi, there are plenty of cafés and ice-cream parlours for a refreshing break.

Things you can legally take From airplanes

Slippers

Slipper are commonly offered on long-haul international ights, especially in business or rst class. ese are provided for in- ight comfort, allowing passengers to remove their shoes and relax more easily, particularly during overnight journeys. Made of soft foam or thin fabric, they are lightweight and not intended for extended use. However, they are considered single-use and are not collected at the end of the ight and you’re welcome to take them with you after landing.

Socks and Eye Masks

Eye masks and socks are frequently included in amenity kits, especially on overnight or long-haul ights. ese items are designed to help passengers sleep more comfortably and stay warm during cooler cabin temperatures.

Usually made from lightweight materials, they are intended for single use and are not collected at the end of the ight. Since they are considered personal comfort items, you’re encouraged to take them with you. While the socks may not be

durable for long-term wear, they’re great for travel days, and eye masks can continue to be used on future ights or in hotels.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Long-haul and overnight ights often include a small dental kit with a toothbrush and a travel-sized toothpaste. ese are always intended for single use, come sealed in plastic, and are provided for your convenience. Airlines do not reuse them, and there’s no expectation to leave them behind.

Pillows

In economy class on some long ights, passengers may receive plastic-wrapped pillows made from synthetic ll. ese are often intended for one-time use and can be taken o the plane. However, in premium cabins, pillows are generally higher quality and made for reuse, often with removable covers that are laundered between ights. If your pillow feels soft but basic and came in sealed packaging, it’s probably disposable. When in doubt, check with the cabin crew before taking it o the aircraft.

Earplugs

Earplugs are included in many amenity kits and help reduce cabin noise, making them useful for sleeping during the ight. ey come individually wrapped or in small cases, usually made from foam or soft silicone. ese are always considered personal hygiene items and are not reused by the airline. Whether you use them during the ight or not, you’re encouraged to keep them for future use.

Blankets

Blankets vary by airline and

cabin class. In economy, you’ll often receive a lightweight eece or polyester blanket sealed in plastic. ese are generally for single-use and can be taken with you after the ight. However, in business or rst class, blankets are typically heavier, higher quality, and reused—these should be left on board. If the blanket was shrink-wrapped when handed to you, it’s likely disposable. If it feels like a hotel-style blanket with a cloth cover, it’s part of the airline’s inventory. Ask a crew member if you’re unsure whether it’s okay to take it.

Opinion

Gatsby, Stellenbosch and ‘The Big Yin’! Furthermore Gerry Moran

Okay, folks, o with the sun hats (they’re well o , says you) and put on your thinking caps for Moran’s: Scintillating Summer Quiz Special – best approached over a strong co ee or something even stronger at the bar, or wherever. Quiz rating: 20 –25 Fair. 25 – 30 Good. 30 – 35 Very Good. 35 + Excellent. 45 + and I’ll declare you a genius or maybe just a quiz nerd. Or both. Either way I’m in awe of you.

Round 1

• Where did Oasis play their rst reunion concert?

• What name is given to a group of crows?

• What nationality is the Wimbledon champion Jannik Sinner?

• In which year did Neil Armstrong set foot on the Moon?

• e longest river in the world?

• e second president of the United States?

• What is the name of Bill Syke’s dog in Oliver Twist?

• Who wrote ‘ e Great Gatsby’

• President Michael D Higgins, what does the D stand for?

• What is the capital of Sardinia?

Round 2

• Who was known as ‘ e Big Yin’?

• In which country is the wine-making area of Stellenbosch?

• What soccer team does Liam Gallagher (of Oasis) support?

• What was Einstein’s rst name?

• What nationality is Elon Musk?

• Which fabled creature was half man and half horse?

• Where in the body is the Tibia’?

• Who is Harry Webb better known as?

• Which country has the longest coastline in the world?

• What does the ‘I’ in IPA beer stand for?

Round 3

• e only person to have won an Oscar and the Nobel Prize for Literature?

• What is apiphobia a fear of?

• In what year was Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’ released?

• For what newspaper did Clark Kent (Superman) work for?

• How many men have walked on the moon?

• In which sport would you perform the Fosbury Flop?

• What age is Joe Du y?

• Who is the common name for ascorbic acid?

• What is Gaspacho?

• Who painted ‘ e Last Supper?

Round 4

• Who composed the opera ‘ e Marriage of Figaro’?

• What is Donald Trump’s second name?

• What is the only musical to have won 10 Oscars?

• Who is the Minister for Education?

• Where in Ireland is Termonfeckin?

• Name the island on which e Statue of Liberty is built?

• How many di erent colours are there on a Rubik’s Cube?

• What do the initials HB stand for on a pencil?

• How many Irish writers have won the Nobel Prize for Literature?

• What English word is derived from the Hebrew word for ‘proper’?

Round 5

• Where in Kilkenny will you nd the ‘Liber

Primus’ meaning ‘First Book’?

• What Kilkenny author wrote Kilkenny….A Blast From e Past?

• Where was St. Canice, after whom our city is called, born?

• What order of friars lives in Kilkenny’s ‘Friary?

• e Anglo Norman, Richard Fizgilbert de Clare was better known as?

• How many All-Ireland hurling titles have Kilkenny won?

• In what year was Petronella, Alice Kyteler’s handmaid, burned at the stake?

• What does the Cill mean in Cill Chainnigh?

• Who composed e Rose of Mooncoin?

• How many Oscar nominations has Cartoon Saloon received?

Answer. 1. Cardiff. 2.Murder 3.Italian. 4.1969. 5.The Nile. 6.John Adams 7. Bullseye. 8. F Scott Fitzgerald. 9. Daniel. 10. Cagliari. 11.Billy Connolly. 12. South Africa. 13.Manchester City. 14. Albert. 15. South African 16. Centaur. 17.Lower leg. 18 Cliff Richard. 19. Canada. 20 India. 21.G.B. Shaw 22. Bees 23.1960 24.The Daily Planet 25 Twelve. 26. High Jump 27. Sixty nine. 28.Vitamin C. 29. A cold soup. 30. Leonardo da Vinci. 31.Mozart 32. John. 33 West Side Story 34. Helen McEntee. 35. Louth. 36 Bedloe 37. Six. 38. Hard Black 39 Four (Yeats, Shaw, Beckett Heaney) 40. Kosher 41. Town Hall. 42 John Fitzgerald (of this parish) 43. Derry. 44. Capuchins. 45. Strongbow. 46. Thirty Six. 47. 1324. 48. Church. 49 Watt Murphy. 50. Five.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

Phil Cody cycling for cystic fibrosis support

“I'm passionate about cycling and driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact. is year, I’m taking on a fundraising challenge to support people living with cystic brosis in Ireland—a condition that a ects thousands of individuals and families across the country.

Cystic brosis is a complex and relentless illness that requires ongoing care and treatment. rough this cycling campaign, my goal is to raise both awareness and funds for vital support services and groundbreaking research. ese e orts play a crucial role in improving quality of life, managing symptoms, and moving us closer to more e ective treatments—and, ultimately, a cure.

Every kilometre I ride is dedicated to those facing this daily battle. eir resilience and strength are a constant source of inspiration for me. It’s their courage that motivates me to push harder and go further in my fundraising journey.

I’ve partnered with iDonate to make contributing to this cause as simple and impactful as possible. Donations of any size go directly toward improving lives—whether through enhanced care programs, expanded patient support, or funding for vital medical research. Your generosity helps build a future with better outcomes and more hope for those living with cystic brosis.

Supporting this campaign means joining a community that refuses to stand still in the face of a difcult illness. It’s about showing up for people who ght every day for breath, health, and normalcy. Every contribution, large or small, truly matters. ank you sincerely for considering this cause. Your support means more than words can express. Together, we can ride toward meaningful change, one kilometre at a time.”

Phil needs your support—donate now and make a di erence: https://www.idonate.ie/ fundraiser/PhilCody0

Mind and body in harmony

Back pain is extremely common, but rarely serious.

People generally recover without the need for any treatment – often easing back from bothersome activities or movements and gradually returning to them over a short period of time.

What can we do to care for our backs? Here are 3 things we can all do to better care for our backs and reduce the risk of pain holding us back.

Activity Recommendations

People who are t generally su er less from back pain. ey also tend to recover more easily. You don’t need to become a gym bu to bene t from the power of exercise –simply meeting the weekly exercise guidelines is a great start.

ere is no one best exercise for back pain. Whether you enjoy a brisk walk, cycle, yoga, weightlifting, swim or dance –know they are all great for your health and the health of your back.

By Paul Bolger Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy,

Back pain –reduce your risk

healing our tissues.

Interestingly, runners and cyclists have healthier, more youthful looking spines (seen on MRI scans) than non-active people. We see the opposite in smokers – with their spinal discs tending to age more quickly. is is unsurprising as our spines are living and adapting parts of us. Anything that is good for your health is

likely good for the health of your spine and back!

Sleep is a Superpower Sleep and pain are intrinsically linked – with poor sleepers

more likely to su er from injuries and persistent pain. Sleep is key in our body’s health – cleansing the brain of waste products, balancing in ammation and helping in

If you su er from back pain and you don’t sleep well –research shows us that even small improvements in sleep can help to sooth of pain and help to reengage in activity.

Motion is Lotion

Our bodies were made to move. Over the course of 300,000 years, our ancestors moved regularly and in every way. ey didn’t do this because they heard it was good for them – they did it because it is what life demanded of them. Today, some people nd themselves in situations where they have been avoiding certain movements for months or even many years. A common one us physios see is people avoiding bending their back, believing this is a good thing. In some instances, temporarily avoiding bending due to a recent injury might be helpful, but bending is perfectly healthy and normal and an important movement for back health.

ose who are free from back pain tend to bend, twist and move freely and in a variety of ways. For those who have su ered from persistent

back pain, rediscovering and exploring movement is often a key part of recovery.

What to do next

Pick an activity you like or nd a group to join. If you need help, seek out a tness professional or physiotherapist. Aim to gradually build up to at least 2.5hrs of total exercise per week. Start small, whatever you can manage, and build gradually over time. Look up sleep hygiene. If you need extra help with insomnia and racing thoughts – a psychologist or trained counsellor o er the ‘gold standard’ treatment.

If you struggle or are fearful of certain movements, then nding a way to comfortably rediscover and explore these movements is an important step in your recovery. A registered physiotherapist who empowers you can be a great guide.

For those who want to know more, there is a fantastic podcast available online from HSE Talking Health and Wellbeing with leading back pain physiotherapist, Susan Murphy - ‘Understanding Low Back Pain’.

Callan's Field of Dreams...

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Last week I recounted the glory days of the Callan Motte- better known as the Moat- back in the 14th century, when it was home to a Castle on the Hill and powerful Norman lords, ladies, and knights-atarms. A little of its former glory returned with the carnivals of 1959, ’62, and ’63 when hilltop dancing and funfairs brought joy to the Town on the King's River...(If you missed Part One, it can be read on the Observer website.)

Wheels of Fortune spun and pillow ghts frightened the Callan trout as poles placed across the King’s River accommodated dozens of hardy fellows, and a few sturdy women, who struggled to avoid getting knocked into the shallow waters.

Two popular highlights of the week were the Street Leagues, which pitted teams representing Callan’s streets against each other in hurling or football games; and the crowning of the Carnival Queen. Chrissie Carroll and Brenda Phelan received the title amid pomp and drum rolls: the rst “Royalty” on the Moat to be honoured and curtsied to since Norman Lords and Ladies packed up and left the Castle seven centuries before.

e Carnival Queen competition was to Callan what the Rose of Tralee event was to Kerry in later decades. Local man Sean Holden as MC had the adoring throng of spectators and admirers in the palm of his hand when he paid homage to the natural grace, beauty and glamour of the comely maidens on the hill. ough commending such qualities as cuteness, charm, seductive looks, curvaceousness, rosy complexions, and cherry lips, Sean reminded his audience that it was their “personalities” that appealed most to the adjudicating committee. And the audience believed it.

In 1963, Radio Eireann’s whiz-kid broadcaster Larry Gogan came to Callan to crown the Carnival Queen. Chrissie Carroll took the honours that year. e Moat was a “revelation” to him, Larry said afterwards.

e Street League matches embodied the great sporting traditions for which Callan is renowned.

e teams comprised dif-

ferent age groups, ranging from 12 to 25. ey trained for several weeks prior to the big showdowns. In the weeklong series of games, every street in town came to the fore. After the 1963 carnival the Moat fell silent again... until ve years ago. anks to Kilkenny County Council and local activism, the Moat eld became a Heritage Park, with walkways extending all around the vast stretch. Panels erected along the scenic route o er information on Moat's fascinating history, as well as the multi-faceted ora and fauna.

Nature in all its glory beguiles when you visit the Moat Field: You might see a stately blue and orange King sher trace its graceful ightpath along the river surface, or a heron in search of sh. e hedgerows that skirt the eld abound with our native trees and shrubs, such as alder, ash, willow and hawthorn, which serve as vital habitat for birds.

If you don't see the robins or blackbirds on your walk, you'll surely hear their sweet notes.

Part two

people who made the age-old dream of a Moat Field Walkway a reality.

At the o cial opening of the amenity in July 2021, Minister Heather Humphreys praised the County Council, other State agencies, and the work teams on the completion of the Moat Field Heritage Trail. However, she reserved her warmest and most emphatic words of commendation for "a very special man."

Patrick Lydon of the Camphill Community had worked tirelessly for decades with the relevant agencies and advisers to make the Moat a centerpiece of local heritage and recreation. e Minister referred to his “vision and tenacity” in pursuing his dream. ere were so many conservation reports, archaeological surveys, environmental impact statements, copious designing and consulting, and endless drafting, she recalled, but persistence paid o and the outcome was a top-class amenity...a credit to Callan. e fact that the walkway is wheelchair accessible was even more poignant, she felt, because Patrick had received a diagnosis of Motor Neuron Disease earlier that year. Everyone applauded when the Minister underlined the value of his life-enhancing work with Camphill.

Sadly, Patrick passed away since that glorious “Grand Opening”, but his role in the project will forever be enshrined in Callan’s Roll of Honour.

Depending on the season, you might hear the gentle buzz of the honey bee or be enchanted by the butter ies, those eternal messengers of spirit.

Local groups have planted more trees, to further enhance the historic eld's attraction and biodiversity. And let’s not forget the

Today, those who opt to take a stroll around the Moat can admire the scenery and enjoy the clean country air. ey might also re ect on past glories: e dancing on the hilltop, the street league games, the tumbling jesters, or the13th century lords and ladies in the castle.

In Callan, the Moat will always be our “ eld of dreams.”

Clodagh Holahan Nicola Teehan and Etaoin Holahan planting trees and restoring biodiversity on the Moat Field

The late Patrick Lydon with Minister Heather Humphreys when they declared the Moat Walkway o icially opened in July 2021

Part of the popular Moat Park Walkway in Callan

Matty Power

Matty Power -

One of the greatest Kilkenny hurlers of all time

BY LIAM BURKE

Matty Power who is still recognised as one of Kilkenny’s greatest ever hurlers helped in no small way to assist and hide many of the escaped prisoners from Kilkenny jail in November 1921. In all, 44 prisoners escaped, including the famous Fr Delahunty using a fty metre tunnel that came up in St. Rioch Street where Matty Power and his family were living at the time. Matty was ably assisted in helping the escapees by Paddy O’Donoghue, another Kilkenny hurling star, who scored a last minute goal which helped Kilkenny to win the 1922 All-Ireland nal against Tipperary. It was so important that the escapees had someone to help them as they emerged from the tunnel, as many who were not from Kilkenny did not know the lie of the land. e IRA branch in Dunnamaggin provided a number of ponies and traps to get the prisoners away as quickly as possible, and none were recaptured.

Closh grounds

Matty Power was born in Graiguenamanagh and the family moved to Kilkenny City when Matty was very young. He learned to play hurling in the Closh and the Fair Green, so it was only natural that he would join the local City club Dicksboro. Following his school days in the local Christian Brothers School he started to play with Dicksboro in 1919 at both junior and Senior level. He continued to play with the Dicksboro club until 1925 when he joined the newly formed Gardai in Dublin.

Suspended

In the middle of the Black and

Tan war in the early twenties, Matty was working as a train guard with the Great Southern Railway Company, and after he refused to take a train load of Tans to Waterford he was suspended. He was presented with a gold watch by his coworkers in the Railway Company and his daughter Cathy is still in possession of that watch which is one of her proudest possessions.

All-Ireland medal

Matty won his rst All-Ireland medal with Kilkenny in the 1922 nal following a dramatic victory over old rivals Tipperary. e losers had been winning by three points with just a few minutes remaining, but unexpected goals by Dick Tobin and Paddy O’ Donohoe secured victory for Kilkenny. e goals were scored so late that many of the Tipperary supporters had left Croke Park fully convinced that they were All-Ireland champions. As he was living in the big smoke from 1925 onwards, Matty was forced to play with a Dublin club and the County team. He did well by winning an All-Ireland with Dublin in 1927 as well as a National League in 1928-9. en as a member of the Garda club he won ve County Dublin senior medals between 1925 to 1931.

Back to Kilkenny

I suppose every savage loves his native shore, and Matty Power was no exception, so he availed of the non-resident rule and declared for Kilkenny in 1931. He played in the three All-Ireland’s of that particular year when Kilkenny with many of the top players badly injured for the second replay were defeated by Cork. Kilkenny were severely hampered by injuries for the second replay. e most signi cant ones were to Lory Meagher, captain and legendary mid elder, and Dick Morrissey, an in uential

Kilkenny team in the Polo Grounds, New York.

Back row: Sean McCarthy (President of the GAA). Jimmy Walsh, Podge Byrne, James Farrell, Jimmy O'Connell, Lory Meagher and Rev. Willie Brennan.

Middle row: J.Keoghan, Dick Sullivan, Eddie Byrne, Martin Power, Jim Dermody, Peter O’Reilly, Paddy Phelan, Tom Leahy, Sean Gibbons,(Chairman of the Kilkenny County GAA Board) and Mick Dalton.

Front row: Jack Fitzpatrick, Jack Duggan, Paddy Larkin, Eddie Doyle (Capt), Martin White, Tom Grace, Matty Power and Johnny Dunne.

forward (who never hurled again).

Matty also did well with Kilkenny, as he won another three All-Ireland medals in 1932, 1933 and 1935. He might have retired then as he was 36, but he stayed on for the nals of 1936 and 1937 when Kilkenny, who were past their best during those years were defeated. e great Lory Meagher who was the same age as Matty also retired following that heavy defeat by Tipperary in Killarney as well.

“Always t, always fast, Matty Power, from his toes to his ngertips, was the sweetest and neatest of hurlers,” wrote Padraig Purcell, the respected GAA scribe. “An artist of the stick and a craftsman of the camán his wristwork was a delight to watch. e cleverest ball player of his day, he relied entirely on craft, skill, and elusiveness to carry him past even the most powerful defenders and rarely in his prime left the eld without making an impressive imprint on the scoreboard.”

In 54 championship games between 1920 and 1937, 41

with Kilkenny and 13 with Dublin Matty Power scored an astonishing 53 goals and 138 points. In 31 NHL games he scored another 25 goals and 20 points. us in 85 agship appearances he scored a goal on 78 occasions during a time when scores were ‘hard got’.

Married

Matty married Nancy Walsh of Bonnettsrath just outside the City, and they owned and ran a Boarding house in Gardiner Place in Dublin for many years. It was the favourite haunt for many a Kilkenny supporter particularly on the day of a match when Kilkenny

In the blood - Matty Powers daughter and grandchildren pictured at Nowlan Park. Mateo Hernandez Power (grandson), Cathy Power (daughter) and Santana Hernandez Power

Mateo has a tattoo on his arm in the form of a Celtic design, incorporating sliotars and hurls with the dates of Matty’s All-Ireland titles

were playing in nearby Croke Park.

Donnelly’s of Walkin Street

Matty Powers' mother was Statia Donnelly, whose father was Patrick and he originated in Tullabrin in Johnswell. She was one of 13 sisters, and no less than ve of those sisters' fathered sons who won AllIreland medals with Kilkenny. Nelly was the mother of Podge

and Eddie Byrne, while Agnes' son was Bobby Brannigan. Nan's son, Marty Grace won a Minor All-Ireland with Kilkenny in 1936, and Bridget's son Paddy Cashin won another Minor All-Ireland in 1931.

One of the greats e great Martin White who lived to be 102 and who played hurling on the same Kilkenny team as Matty during the thirties said a number of years ago that “Matty Power was one of the greatest hurlers of all time.” He added that he “saw Power beat Faughs almost on his own with the Garda club. He had wonderful skill, and he was very strong on both sides, and he always played very well with Kilkenny.”

Matty Power who was born on October 18th 1899 and passed away much too young on October 7th 1965 following a long illness. May he rest in peace.

(granddaughter).

1932 Winners - Jimmy Walsh of Carrickshock (Kilkenny team captain) is presented with the Liam McCarthy cup following Kilkenny’s win in the 1932 All-Ireland Final. Also in the picture is Eamon De Valera, John Joe ‘Goggles’ Doyle (captain of the Clare team), Sean McCarthy (GAA president), and Bishop Collier of Ossory. Matty Power scored a goal and the winning point. Power also scored two points in the 1933 and 1935 All-Ireland finals.

Kilkenny Pride Festival 2025

24th - 27th July

Le Chéile for Kilkenny's inaugural Pride Festival

Route con rmed for Kilkenny's rst Pride Parade

The inaugural Kilkenny Pride Festival begins on Thursday, 24 July, launching a four-day programme of events celebrating LGBTQ+ culture and community under the theme 'Le Chéile', meaning 'together' in Irish. Kilkenny will host its first Pride Parade on Saturday, 26 July 2025, from 1 pm. The parade route sets off from Kilkenny Castle, proceeding from Parade Plaza

towards High Street and the Market Yard, before concluding at the Butler Gallery at Evan's Home on John's Quay. An Garda Sío chána will accom pany the proces sion to manage traffic with minimal

temporary delays expected en route.

Speaking ahead of the event, co-chair of Kilkenny Pride, Alan Slattery said, "We're looking forward to celebrating a lively, positive event in the city, and we hope to see lots of people lining the streets, whether they're walking in the parade or cheering from the sidelines. We have been overwhelmed by the support from businesses and local people, and we'd love the whole city to join in."

Kilkenny Pride Family Fun-Day

Following the parade, everyone is welcome to a free Family Fun Day, in association with Butler Gallery, Ossory Youth, and Kilkenny County Council. Organisers advise "bring a blanket and settle into the gardens at Butler Gallery" to enjoy an afternoon of family-friendly fun, sponsored by State Street with performances from Seafall, MARYANN, local poet Samantha Joyce, Antanna, as well as bubbles, face painting, a silks performer and more.

"We hope that this festival and parade will grow into an annual celebration, one that belongs to the whole community, where everyone has the opportunity to get involved and feel part of it. We are excited to reveal our plans for the upcoming Pride celebration." Slattery concluded.

Kilkenny Pride line-up announced

Opening night features two free events, a Nerd Pub Quiz: Pride Edition at Kyteler's Inn, and Karaoke at Biddy Early's.

Later, the spotlight turns to comedy as the Kilkenny Home Rule Club hosts Kilkenny's Comedy Pride, supported by Cartoon Saloon. The evening features headliner Gearóid Farrelly, recently seen on RTÉ's Dancing with the Stars, joined by popular returning performers Sinéad Walsh and Kate Feeney.

On Friday, the Butler Gal -

lery presents Drag & Draw, an 18+ life drawing class that blends art and performance, with drag artists as models. The session is suitable for beginners and experienced artists.

The festival concludes on a relaxed note with a barbecue on Sunday, sponsored by Lighthouse Studios, followed by an open mic session held in collaboration with Cult Collective at the Kilkenny Home Rule Club.

Walsh's Toyota brings Pride After Dark at Cleere's Theatre, while Fennelly's of Callan invites all to enjoy an evening of ceol, craic agus

Kilkenny Youth Pride

The Kilkenny Youth Pride Committee (Ossory Youth) has planned youth-focused events as part of Kilkenny's Pride festival, including an improv show by Dreamstuff Youth Theatre in Ossory Youth, a film screening of "But I'm a Cheerleader" in Young Irish Film Makers and a pre-parade brunch in Ossory Youth. The full festival programme is available at www.kilkennypride.ie.

damhsa at Queer Céilí, with live music from Cré and guests.

KILKENNY PRIDE FESTIVAL | 24th - 27th July

From its revolutionary beginnings on the streets of New York to its proud march through the heart of Dublin, LGBT Pride has evolved from a courageous act of resistance to a worldwide celebration of love, diversity, and equality. As Pride parades mark another year around the globe, it's important to re ect on their history — the activism, the heartbreak, and the hope that created one of the most enduring symbols of LGBTQ+ rights.

Stonewall: the uprising that sparked a movement e modern Pride movement traces its roots to the early hours of June 28, 1969, when police raided the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar in New York City’s Greenwich Village. Raids on LGBT venues were common, but this night was di erent. Bar patrons and community members — many of them transgender women, drag queens, and queer people of colour — fought back in what became known as the Stonewall Uprising. e resistance lasted several days and marked a turning point in the ght for LGBTQ+ rights. Prominent gures such as Marsha P. Johnson, Sylvia Rivera, and Stormé DeLarverie became iconic for their roles in the uprising. eir courage laid the foundation for the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.

e world’s rst Pride Parade: June 28, 1970

One year after Stonewall, New

York City held the rst o cial Pride march on June 28, 1970, known then as the Christopher Street Liberation Day March. Organised by activists including Craig Rodwell and Ellen Broidy, the event brought together thousands who marched from Greenwich Village to Central Park. It was not a parade in the traditional sense — there were no oats or sponsors — but a bold political demonstration declaring: “We’re here. We’re queer. Get used to it.”

at same weekend, sister marches took place in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago, with participants risking jobs, families, and safety to publicly assert their identities.

Spreading Pride across the globe By the late 1970s, Pride marches had become annual events in major US cities, each blending political activism with celebration. Soon, Pride made its way overseas.

• In 1979, Berlin held its rst Christopher Street Day march, a nod to New York’s original.

• By the 1990s, São Paulo had launched what would become one of the world’s largest Pride parades.

• Today, over 100 countries observe Pride, with events ranging from small marches in conservative societies to massive festivals drawing millions.

Despite their celebratory tone, Pride events remain deeply political. In many parts of the world, LGBTQ+ people

Pride through the years

A history of LGBT Pride Parades from Stonewall

Photo credit: New York Public Library. World's first Pride Parade - New York 1970

Stonewall to Ireland

still face persecution, and Pride serves as a vital platform for visibility and protest.

Ireland’s path to Pride Ireland’s LGBTQ+ rights movement began in a vastly di erent social climate. Homosexuality remained illegal until 1993, and queer people faced widespread discrimination and violence. Yet even under these conditions, a small but determined group of activists laid the groundwork for change.

First public demonstration – 1974

e rst recorded LGBTQ+ protest in Ireland took place on June 27, 1974, when a handful of demonstrators marched from the Department of Justice to the British Embassy in Dublin. ey protested the continued criminalisation of homosexuality under British-imposed laws that remained on Ireland’s books.

Pride Week – 1979

In 1979, the National Gay and Lesbian Federation (NGLF) organized Ireland’s rst Pride Week. Events included picnics in Phoenix Park, debates, and social gatherings — all part of an e ort to build community and visibility in a hostile environment. Still, a formal Pride parade was yet to emerge.

e turning point – 1983

In 1982, a young gay man named Declan Flynn was brutally murdered in Fairview Park, Dublin, by a group of

teenagers who were later given suspended sentences. e injustice galvanised the LGBTQ+ community. On March 19, 1983, over 800 people marched in protest from Liberty Hall to Fairview Park in what many consider Ireland’s rst major LGBTQ+ rights march.

Just months later, on June 25, 1983, Ireland’s rst o cial Pride parade took place. Around 200 people marched from St Stephen’s Green to the GPO on O’Connell Street. ough small and met with hostility, the march was a powerful act of resistance and visibility.

A movement interrupted and renewed

Following the 1983 and 1985 marches, Pride events in Ireland faced a hiatus. A combination of political pressure, the AIDS crisis, and emigration stalled the movement. However, the early 1990s brought renewed energy. By 1992, Pride parades returned to Dublin and became annual events.

e decriminalisation of homosexuality in 1993 was a major turning point. It not only a rmed the rights of LGBTQ+ people but also empowered a new generation of activists, artists, and allies to expand the movement.

From protest to celebration In the decades since decriminalisation, Ireland’s Pride movement has grown exponentially. Today, Dublin Pride is one of the country’s

largest public events, drawing over 60,000 people. Other cities — including Cork, Galway, Limerick, Waterford and Kilkenny — now host their own Pride parades.

Landmark moments include:

• Ireland’s marriage equality referendum in 2015, making it the rst country to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote.

• Increased visibility for trans and non-binary communities, especially through inclusive Pride programming and

legislation supporting gender recognition.

• Digital Pride in 2020, showcasing adaptability and community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While Pride is now lled with color, music, and festivity, Irish organisers remain committed to its activist roots — especially in support of marginalized LGBTQ+ communities.

Why Pride still matters

In 2025, as anti-LGBTQ+ legislation rises globally and queer communities face fresh

challenges, Pride remains vital.

• It honors the activists and ordinary people who risked everything.

• It provides hope and solidarity for those still ghting for their rights.

• It educates, connects, and celebrates diversity in all its forms.

e spirit of Pride — born on the streets of New York and carried into Ireland’s heart — continues to march forward. It is both a celebration and a call to action.

Photo cred: Her.ie Ireland's first Pride Parade - Dublin 1983

Kilkenny Pride

- “it’s about time!” says

Green

Party Senator, Malcolm Noonan

SENATOR MALCOLM NOONAN

Welcoming Kilkenny’s rst ever Pride Parade, Green Party Senator, Malcolm Noonan said that it is long overdue that the city has its own Pride events and that he was looking forward to taking part in the celebrations. He also urged against complacency that the rights of LGBTQ+ have been won and that the battle is over.

“We are seeing a reversal of the rights of LGBTQ+ people around the world. We are witnessing a rise in hate speech and online content directed at LGBTQ+ too. It's strategic, well funded and backed by far right groups who are also targeting migrants and refugees. It is important that here in Ireland that we build on progress made to date in terms of legislation and on the tenth anniversary of the marriage equality referendum to ensure that Ireland can be the most inclusive country in the world,” said Senator Noonan.

“Pride is a protest as well as a celebration and as we saw in Budapest last month, it

can be a very powerful protest in the face of suppression of the rights of gay, lesbian, bi and trans people. Viktor Orbán got his reply to his attempt to ban Pride when 200,000 people turned out in de ance.”

Senator Noonan also said that the Government needs to continue to build on the work of his colleague Roderic O’Gorman when the Greens were in Government and to fund support organisations working with young LGBTQ+ young people. He also said that it was worrying that some US multinationals based here were rowing back on supporting Pride due to pressure from conservative

activists linked to the Trump administration.

“ ese companies fail to appreciate that many of the people that they are o ending are among their workforce and that a diverse workforce is a happy, creative and a productive one. I do hope that companies, hotels, restaurants, bars and the wider business community come out to support Kilkenny Pride by putting up bunting and ags but by also committing towards creating inclusive and diverse workplaces,” he said.

He congratulated the hard working committee in putting together this year’s programme of events and said that he hoped that Kilkenny Pride would become a permanent xture in Kilkenny’s festival calendar.

“I attended the omastown Pride with my family a few weeks back and it struck me that not only is Pride good for the wellbeing of our whole community but it’s also really good for the local economy. at should not be forgotten and I know that over time Kilkenny Pride will be a valued part of the City’s vibrant festival and cultural calendar. But for now, roll on Kilkenny Pride 2025!” concluded Senator Noonan.

KATS are proud to return to the stage with their latest production Scar Tissue by playwright Gabriel Rivas Gomez

Rivas Gomez is an American author who graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master of Fine Arts in dramatic writing. His work has been called “everything from surreal to abstract to unstageable”. e play was also published in e Best American Short Plays of 2010-2011.

Scar Tissue brings you into the world of renowned cardiologist Claudia, played by Edwina Cummins. Claudia is dealing with the loss of her daughter Alma, played by Megan Kelly. Alma was a US soldier who was killed in the line of duty while stationed in Afghanistan. Lee, played by Hugh Keenan, is another US soldier who has returned home from active duty for health reasons. He nds himself under the care of Claudia and the two strong willed characters immediately clash.

Scar Tissue is an emotional roller coaster of a play that leads

its characters and audience on a journey from anger and pride to shock and denial, and nally to understanding and acceptance. Along with the on-stage actors, the group is joined by Sarah Bergin on lighting and tech and Sophie Galvin as stage manager, with Edwina Cummins also directing.

KATS are proud to announce Behaviour Detectives as their

sponsor for the play. is wonderful one-act will be playing in the omastown Community Hall, from August 7-9th, in conjunction with the AKA Fringe Festival. Tickets are available online at www. gr8events.ie/katsscartissue

KATS are proud to continue their support of the LGBTQI+ community and are excited for Kilkenny’s rst ever Pride

Megan Kelly

Hugh Keenan

Edwina Cummins

than ever, but understanding what LGBT+ means is still essential to creating a society where everyone feels safe and seen.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender: the foundation

L is for lesbian: a lesbian is a woman who is romantically or sexually attracted to other women. Groups such as Lesbian Line, founded in 1979, o ered vital support and connection at a time when being openly lesbian could lead to social isolation or worse.

What does LGBT+ mean?

Understanding identity and inclusion in Ireland

Across Ireland, the term LGBT+ is now widely used — seen on posters during Pride Month, heard in schools, workplaces, and government policies. But what does it really mean?

LGBT+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and the ‘plus’ symbol represents the many other sexual orientations and gender identities that exist beyond those four letters — including Queer, Intersex, Asexual, Non-Binary, and more.

While these identities have always existed, Irish society has not always recognised or supported them. LGBT+ people have faced decades of silence, shame, and legal discrimination. Today, Ireland is more open and inclusive

G is for gay: the term gay typically refers to men who are attracted to other men, though it can also be used more broadly for someone who is attracted to the same sex. In the Irish context, being openly gay was once a serious risk. Homosexuality remained criminalised until 1993, and many people lived in fear of violence, job loss, or imprisonment. Activists like David Norris, who led the campaign to decriminalise same-sex relationships, played a crucial role in changing both the law and public attitudes.

Since then, Ireland has made remarkable progress. In 2015, it became the rst country in the world to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote — a moment of celebration and national pride.

B is for bisexual: a bisexual person is someone who is

attracted to more than one gender. Despite being one of the largest groups within the LGBT community, bisexual people are often misunderstood or overlooked. In Irish society, bisexuality can sometimes be dismissed as a “phase” or misunderstood as indecision. In reality, bisexuality is a valid and enduring identity.

T is for transgender: a transgender (or trans) person is someone whose gender identity is di erent from the sex they were assigned at birth. In Ireland, awareness of trans identities has grown signi cantly in recent years. In 2015, the Gender Recognition Act allowed trans people to have their gender legally recognised — a landmark moment for equality.

Still, many trans and nonbinary people in Ireland face barriers in healthcare, education, and everyday life. Organisations like TENI (Transgender Equality Network Ireland) continue to work for full inclusion and rights for trans people across the country.

Each identity within LGBT+ is distinct, but all share common struggles for acceptance, safety, and visibility. In Ireland, these struggles were particularly di cult for much of the 20th century. Homosexuality remained a criminal o ence until 1993, and even after that, LGBT+ people often faced discrimination in school, at work, or

in public life.

What the “+” stands for e plus (+) in LGBT+ is important. It acknowledges that not everyone ts neatly into xed categories of gender or sexuality.

• Queer is an umbrella term reclaimed by many to describe diverse sexual and gender identities.

• Intersex people are born with physical sex characteristics that don’t t typical de nitions of male or female.

• Asexual people experience little or no sexual attraction.

• Non-binary people don’t identify exclusively as male or female.

By including the “+”, we recognise the full spectrum of human identity — and a rm that everyone deserves respect and equality.

Why it still matters Even with Ireland’s progress, many LGBT+ people still face challenges — including bullying, mental health issues, and unequal access to healthcare. For young people in rural areas or from conservative backgrounds, coming out can still be incredibly di cult.

Understanding what LGBT+ means isn’t just about language. It’s about inclusion, empathy, and action. It’s about building a society where everyone — regardless of who they are or whom they love — can live with dignity and pride.

Pride, pralines, and plenty of sprinkles at The Chocolate Garden

Here at e Chocolate Garden Café in High Street, we are delighted to be involved with the Kilkenny Pride Festival. We opened our venue here in Kilkenny last October – with chocolate-making events, a café and ice cream parlour. Our venue in Kilkenny is a space dedicated to chocolatemaking experiences, a cosy café, and an artisan ice cream parlour. is is our rst venture away from our base between Tullow and Shillelagh, where we’ve been honing our skills of making artisan chocolates since 2001 and ice cream since 2008 and we are sure to have something here for you to drive your taste buds wild!

We are a family business and are very much respectful of diversity, individuality, wellbeing and safety - for our sta , customers and suppliers. Everyone deserves to feel safe, accepted, and celebrated for who they are. is belief is close to our hearts, and we see rsthand the challenges faced by loved ones on a daily basis from less informed people who are not embracing the social change, acceptance and understanding that should have happened a long time ago.

We opened our doors sixteen years ago to hosting events, group workshops, individual chocolate-making activities, hen parties and lots

more at our base near Tullow. We are delighted now to o er these events in our Kilkenny premises. We have shared our passion for chocolate with so many over the years, from toddlers to nursing home residents, nuns to rock stars; and there is no age limit when you are focused creatively with liquid chocolate at the ready!

In Kilkenny, visitors can drop in for daily chocolate mould-making sessions - no booking needed most of the time, though advance booking is advised during busy periods. And if you haven’t yet tried our legendary hot chocolate or award-winning artisan ice cream… well, now’s the timewe guarantee you’ll love it. Our chocolate is premium quality, gluten-free, and responsibly sourced through the Cocoa Horizons programme – supporting sustainable farming, fair trade practices, and community development in cocoagrowing regions. We look forward to welcoming you - and sharing a little chocolate joy along the way.

You can nd out more about us at www.chocolategarden.ie

Celebrating pride, style, and self-expression at Goods

At Goods Department Store, we believe fashion is more than what you wear—it's how you express who you are. As we celebrate Pride this month, we’re proud to stand with the LGBTQI+ community in championing diversity, inclusion, and the freedom to be unapologetically yourself. For nearly a century, Goods has been at the heart of Kilkenny, evolving with the times while staying true to our values: quality, service, and a warm welcome for everyone. is Pride, we’re not just celebrating love and identity— we’re celebrating the power of self-expression through style, beauty, and care.

Across our four oors, you’ll nd a curated selection of fashion and beauty that re ects the vibrancy and individuality of our customers. We’re thrilled to introduce Lingadore Lingerie, a French brand that blends elegance and comfort at an incredible value—designed to make every body feel con dent and beautiful.

Our cosmetics and haircare department is a haven for those who love to experiment, pamper, or simply treat themselves. Whether you’re reviving your curls, protect-

ing your colour, or going bold with a new look, explore toptier brands like Olaplex, Joico, SEMI DILINO, K18, Colour WOW, and Mielle—each chosen for their innovation and results.

And as the seasons shift, so does our fashion. New Autumn collections are already arriving from beloved brands like Hobbs, Phase Eight, Ka e, and B-Young—bringing fresh silhouettes, rich textures, and timeless pieces to inspire your wardrobe.

But Goods is more than a store—it’s a space where

everyone is welcome. Whether you’re browsing for the perfect gift, getting your brows shaped at our brow bar, or enjoying a moment of self-care at the nail bar, we’re here to make you feel seen, celebrated, and supported. is Pride, we honour the courage it takes to live authentically. We’re proud to be part of a community that embraces love in all its forms—and we’re committed to making Goods a place where everyone belongs. Happy Pride from all of us at Goods.

KILKENNY PRIDE FESTIVAL | 24th - 27th July

The Ladies of Llangollen: a Kilkenny love story that defied convention

Long before LGBTQ+ identities were openly recognised or understood, two Irish women from Kilkenny quietly challenged the expectations of their time. Known to history as the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’, Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby made a bold escape from their aristocratic lives in 18th-century Ireland — not to marry noblemen, but to live together in lifelong companionship.

eir story began in Kilkenny, and while their most famous years were spent in Wales, it was their Irish roots — and their determination to live freely — that shaped their remarkable journey. From privilege to resistance Lady Eleanor Butler was born in 1739 into the wealthy and in uential Butler family of Kilkenny Castle. Well-educated, uent in French, and intellectually curious, she was outspoken about her desire not to marry. Across the River Nore, Sarah Ponsonby, born in 1755, grew up in Woodstock House, Inistioge. Like Eleanor, Sarah rejected the idea of becoming a dutiful wife in a strategic marriage.

ey met in the early 1770s when Sarah was a teenager and Eleanor already in her thirties. Despite their age gap, the two formed a strong emotional and intellectual

bond. At a time when samesex relationships had no social or legal recognition, they referred to their connection as a “romantic friendship” — a term used for deep, often lifelong, same-gender companionship.

e great escape from Kilkenny

In 1778, determined to escape pressure to marry, Eleanor and Sarah attempted to elope. Disguised in men’s clothing, they ed by carriage with their dog and a maid, hoping to reach England and live independently. However, they were quickly discovered and returned to their respective families.

Surprisingly, rather than being punished, the women were eventually allowed to leave — likely because their determination impressed even their conservative relatives. Later that year, they left Ireland for good and settled in Llangollen, North Wales.

A life together at Plas Newydd

At a small house called Plas Newydd, the women created a home lled with books, Gothic furniture, and handcarved decorations. ey lived quietly but attracted attention across Britain and Ireland. eir home became a salon for artists, writers, and thinkers — including

Wordsworth, Sir Walter Scott, and even the Duke of Wellington. ey dressed in unconventional clothing, managed their own household, and cultivated a private world of shared learning, gardening, and writing. Queen Charlotte admired their independence and granted them a royal pension.

Although they never described themselves as a couple in modern terms, their devotion was evident. ey remained together for over 50 years until Eleanor died in 1829, followed by Sarah in 1831. ey are buried side by side in Llangollen, their gravestone reading: " ey lived together in the retirement of friendship for more than fty years."

eir legacy in Kilkenny ough they left Ireland behind, their story is rooted in Kilkenny. Kilkenny Castle and Woodstock Gardens remain enduring reminders of their origins. Today, the Ladies of Llangollen are celebrated as early LGBTQ+ icons — two women who chose love and autonomy in a world that o ered them neither.

In Kilkenny and beyond, their story reminds us that the desire to live authentically — and to love freely — is timeless.

Dancing with pride and style Wedding choreography for all couples by The

Dance Club Kilkenny and My First Dance Ireland

Love knows no bounds—and neither should your rst dance. For couples preparing for their wedding day, the experience of learning and performing a rst dance that feels authentic, joyful, and memorable can be just as meaningful as the vows themselves. at’s where e Dance Club Kilkenny and My First Dance Ireland step in, o ering bespoke wedding choreography that celebrates love in all its beautiful forms— whether you're a same-sex couple, opposite-sex couple, or anywhere in between. With decades of combined experience, these two premier Irish dance providers have built a reputation for inclusivity, creativity, and professionalism. Whether you're envisioning a romantic slow waltz, a sultry tango, or a high-energy routine that gets the party started, their expert instructors work closely with you to tailor every step to your personality, skill level, and story as a couple.

“We don’t believe in onesize- ts-all choreography,” says a representative from e Dance Club Kilkenny. “Every couple—regardless of gender—brings something special to the oor. Our job

is to help them express that love with con dence, air, and fun.”

My First Dance Ireland shares that ethos. eir private sessions are designed to put couples at ease and bring out the best in each partnership. Whether you’re total beginners or seasoned dancers, their patient, professional instructors guide you through every move—making the experience stress-free and unforgettable.

While many LGBTQ+ couples have historically faced barriers in traditional wedding spaces, both dance studios proudly o er a

welcoming, judgment-free environment where love takes centre stage. But their expertise is for everyone: straight, gay, trans, non-binary, or otherwise—if you’re in love and ready to dance, you’re in the right place.

From tender, intimate moments to bold, choreographed surprises that wow your guests, e Dance Club Kilkenny and My First Dance Ireland ensure your rst dance is more than just a tradition—it’s a celebration of who you are as a couple. To book, contact 086 378 5109 or info@thedanceclubkilkenny. com.

Support Kilkenny Pride Festival 2025

Help us celebrate, educate, and unite

Kilkenny Pride Festival is a powerful celebration of love, identity, and community. It brings colour, joy, and visibility to the LGBTQ+ community in the southeast of Ireland. But this celebration doesn’t happen on its own—it relies on the support of donors, volunteers, and allies like you.

By donating to Kilkenny Pride, you’re directly supporting a range of events and initiatives that promote inclusion, acceptance, and equality. Every euro helps host safe and welcoming celebrations, run community workshops, provide resources, and ensure that LGBTQ+ people—especially in rural areas—feel seen and supported.

Why your donation matters

1. Visibility & belonging: in smaller cities like Kilkenny, visibility for the LGBTQ+ community is especially important. Pride provides a safe space where people can express themselves freely and proudly.

2. Community building: Pride events help combat isolation by bringing people together. Your

donation supports inclusive spaces that foster connection and belonging.

3. Education & empowerment: Pride is also about learning and growth. Funds go toward educational talks, workshops, and initiatives that raise awareness, promote understanding, and support advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights.

4. Volunteer-driven, community-funded: Kilkenny Pride is entirely organised by volunteers. Donations fund the essentials—venues, sound equipment, insurance, security, and materials for events and outreach.

How to donate

We envision a city where every LGBTQ+ person feels proud, safe, and celebrated. But that can’t be done without you.

Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring monthly contribution, your support goes directly into creating a safer, more inclusive community for all.

If you'd like to support Kilkenny Pride Festival 2025, you can make a secure donation online: https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/KilkennyPrideFestival2025

Your donation helps keep the rainbow shining brightly over Kilkenny.

Food & Drink

Penang prawn and pineapple curry

Dine WithMe

Prep: 25 mins

Cook: 40 mins

Serves:8 (with other dishes)

Rustle up this fragrant one-pot curry with other dishes to create a Malaysian feast for eight, or make it your centrepiece by doubling the prawns.

Ingredients

For the toasted coconut

• 100g fresh coconut  esh

• 2 tsp sun ower oil

For the curry

• thumb-sized piece ginger , peeled

• 6 garlic cloves , peeled

• 1 ½ tbsp mild curry powder

• 100ml sun ower oil

• 7 curry leaves

• 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 star anise

• 3 cardamom pods

• 6 cloves

• 6 shallots , thinly sliced lengthways

• 3 tbsp tamarind paste

• 1 pineapple , peeled, cored and cut into chunks

• 1 tbsp palm sugar or soft brown sugar

• 400ml can full-fat thick coconut milk

• 24 large raw king prawns , peeled

• handful coriander leaves and cooked white or brown rice, to serve

Method

STEP 1

Finely grate the coconut, then toast slowly in a wok, stirring until evenly dark brown (it will start to smell very strong, but it will work a treat). While it’s still warm, pound to a paste with the sun ower oil using a pestle and mortar. Set aside.

STEP 2

Finely grate or pound the ginger and garlic together using a pestle and mortar. Make a loose curry paste by adding 75ml water to the curry powder. Heat the oil in the wok until it’s just starting to smoke, then throw in the curry leaves, cinnamon stick, star anise, cardamom pods and cloves and cook for 1 min until fragrant.

Prep: 25 mins

Cook: 3 hrs

Serves: 8

Reinvent this classic comfort food with our one-pan version that is enriched with peanut butter, espresso powder and dark chocolate. You won’t look back.

Ingredients

• 2 dried ancho chillies

• 2 tsp black peppercorns

• 2 tbsp cumin seeds

• 2 tbsp coriander seeds

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 ½kg braising steak, cut into 4cm cubes – meat from the brisket, short rib, blade or chuck steak are all good

• 2 onions,  nely chopped

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp tomato purée

• 1 tbsp smooth peanut butter

• ½ tsp instant espresso powder

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1l beef or chicken stock

• 2 bay leaves

STEP 3

Add the shallots and ginger and garlic paste, cook for around 7 mins until softened and starting to brown, then add the curry powder paste. is is the most important part of making the curry. Ideally, cook over a very low heat and wait until the oil separates and bubbles over the paste, around 10-12 mins. Scrape the bottom of the pan occasionally to remove the crust.

• small piece of cinnamon stick

• 2 tbsp semolina, polenta or Mexican masa our

• 25g dark chocolate (70-80% cocoa solids)

• 400g can kidney beans, drained but not rinsed (optional)

Method

STEP 1

Heat oven to 140C/120C fan/gas 1. Over a high heat, toast the whole chillies on all sides until you can smell them cooking, then remove and set aside. Keep the pan on the heat and toast the peppercorns, cumin seeds and coriander seeds until they just start to change colour, then grind to a powder using a pestle and mortar or spice grinder. Mix with the smoked paprika and oregano (this is a standard Tex-Mex seasoning), then set aside.

STEP 2

Return the casserole to the heat, add half the oil and heat until shimmering. Fry the beef in batches, adding more oil if you need to, until it’s browned on all sides, then set aside. Fry the onions in the pan over a low heat for about 8 mins

STEP 4

When the oil has come to the top, add the tamarind paste, pineapple and sugar. Pour in the coconut milk. When the mixture starts boiling, add the prawns and return to the boil, then stir through the toasted coconut. Season the curry with salt, scatter over the coriander and serve with rice.

until soft and golden, then add the garlic and cook for 1 min more. Working fast, add the meat and juices, the spice mix, tomato purée, peanut butter and co ee to the pan and cook for 2-3 mins, stirring to coat the meat until everything is thick and gloopy, then pour in the vinegar and stock.

STEP 3

Add the toasted chillies back into the casserole, along with the bay leaves, cinnamon and some salt. Bring to a simmer and stir well, then cover with the lid and cook in the oven for 3hrs, stirring occasionally, until the meat is very tender but not falling apart. Take the casserole out of the oven, put back on the stove and remove the lid. Simmer the sauce for 5 mins, then stir in the semolina our and simmer for 2-3 mins more. Finely grate over the chocolate, stir through with the beans and simmer for a minute more to heat through. Fish out the chillies, then leave everything to rest for at least 15 mins.

STEP 4

Bring the pan to the table. Serve with bowls of accompaniments and the chilli paste (see tip below) to add heat.

Take a bite out of Apple’s thrillers

Nobody particularly enjoys chaos or upheaval in their own lives. Yet, for some reason, we can’t get enough of on TV, thrillers psychological and otherwise. ese shows draw us in with their uncanny plots and suspenseful build-ups, then keep us glued to our seats as unexpected twists and revelations reveal themselves.

Apple TV+ will de nitely scratch your itch for the mysterious. Here are the best TV thrillers binge you can now on the streaming giant.

Severence Initially released in 2022, Severance continues to keep audiences in a chokehold.

e show feels like a commentary on work-life balance in 2025, albeit a super dark one. It centres on o ce employees whose memories are actually surgically divided to compartmentalise their work and personal lives.

Starring Adam Scott, Severance will leave you questioning the demands of corporate life and their impact on your identity.

Disclaimer

Cate Blanchett stars as Catherine Ravenscroft in Disclaimer, a thriller built

around irony [pictured]. e character is a journalist who has spent her entire career exposing the “transgressions” of others. Nonetheless, she suddenly receives a novel from an unknown author that threatens to reveal her own darkest secrets.

Disclaimer is a limited series with seven episodes.

e Shrink Next Door

e Shrink Next Door debuted in 2021 and has a stacked cast, including Will Ferrell, Paul Rudd, Kathryn Hahn, and Casey Wilson. Couple that with its ultraintriguing plot, and you’ve got a thriller you won’t be able to stop watching. e series follows the true story of a man named Marty and his therapist, known as Dr Ike.

Marty initially seeks help with boundaries, but soon, his life is taken over by his own boundary-crossing therapist.

Black Bird

Taron Egerton ( Smoke) stars as James Keene in Black Bird , a story centred on a potentially life-changing proposition.

While serving out a 10year prison sentence, James gets an opportunity to be a free man again, as long as

he can get Larry Hall, a suspected killer, to confess to his crimes.

Released in 2022 as a limited series, Black Bird will take you on a true survival mission.

Suspicion

We all loved Uma urman in Pulp Fiction , and now, you can get another dose of the iconic actress in Suspicion.

After the son of a United States media mogul is kidnapped, a worldwide manhunt is launched, and four people are accused of being behind the abduction. is sets o a suspenseful race against the clock to prove what really happened. You can stream Suspicion ‘s rst and only season on Apple.

Servant

Ever since its debut in 2019, Servant has gone on to have four successful seasons.

Perhaps that’s because acclaimed director M. Night Shyamalan is largely behind the psychological horror series.

It’s about a Philadelphia couple who experience an “unspeakable tragedy” that causes a divide in their marriage, and the gap allows a strange force to enter their household.

to stream this coming weekend 5

1. Madea’s Destination Wedding

After his intense psychological thriller Straw hit Net ix’s No. 1 spot last month, Tyler Perry is back with his famed Madea persona for another romp as the moomoo-wearing matriarch with a mouth. Written, directed, and produced by Tyler Perry, “Madea’s Destination Wedding” carries on the series’ trademark mix of overthe-top slapstick humour and heartfelt family drama, this time set against the vibrant backdrop of the Bahamas. Watch on Net ix

2. Karate Kid: Legends e sixth instalment in the Karate Kid franchise wears its nostalgia on its sleeve, but fans eager for more training montages and martial arts showdowns have already propelled Karate Kids: Legends to the top of the streaming charts. With plenty of throwbacks to the original series, Karate Kid: Legends packs a familiar punch, and clearly there’s an audience for it (even if its theatrical debut fell short). Streaming now with purchase on Amazon or Apple

e cast includes Lauren Ambrose, Toby Kebbell, Nell Tiger Free, and Rupert Grint.

Losing Alice

Ayelet Zurer portrays Alice in this mind-bending thriller that tackles jealousy and the fear of aging. In Losing Alice , the protagonist is a 48-year-old lm director who feels like she’s no longer relevant after raising her family.

So, when she meets a young screenwriter named Sophie, she becomes obsessed, and it causes her to sacri ce her integrity. You can stream the eightepisode miniseries now.

Defending Jacob

Adapted from William Landay’s 2012 bestselling novel of the same name, Defending Jacob is perfect for lovers of legal thrillers.

Chris Evans stars as Andy Barber, an Assistant District Attorney who becomes the lead prosecutor in the murder case of his son’s classmate. en, his whole family’s life is upended when his own son is actually accused of committing the crime. Defending Jacob is another miniseries with eight episodes, yet it still packs a gutwrenching punch.

3. e Phoenician Scheme’ e Phoenician Scheme is Michael Cera and Wes Anderson’s rst collaboration. (Cera’s brand of awkwardness seems built for the Wes Anderson cinematic universe). e lm centres on Zsa-zsa Korda (Benicio del Toro), a wealthy businessman and arms dealer who is fed up with all these assassination attempts ruining his day-to-day. After yet another near-fatal encounter, he sets out to reconcile with his daughter, Sister Liesl (Mia reapleton), a nun, and shocks everyone by naming her his sole heir.

Streaming now with purchase on Amazon or Apple

4. Trainwreck: e Real Project X

Net ix’s Trainwreck documentaries latest dives into a 2012 incident when one teenager’s birthday party in the town of Haren in the Netherlands devolved into a nightmare, shining a light on how online buzz can spill over into real-world consequences. Dutch teenager Merthe Weusthuis had planned a small Sweet 16 celebration with just family and friends. However, she accidentally set the Facebook event to public instead of private, and before she knew it, the invitation had gone viral with thousands of people RSVP’ing. As the situation spiralled out of control, Merthe and her mother decided to leave town on the night of the party.

And then all hell breaks loose...

5.

Better Man

Directed by e Greatest Showman’s Michael Gracey, Better Man tells the real-life story of Take at member Robbie Williams. It takes a unconventional approach that left plenty of would-be viewers scratching their heads: e lmmakers depict parts of Williams’ journey through a CGI human-sized chimpanzee, navigating the highs and lows of fame, spotlighting the challenges and pressures any superstar must face as a price for success.

Summer basketball bonanza in Thomastown

e basketball festival/community event came back to omastown last weekend as the Berkeley Wolves hosted there third outdoor basketball event in the stateof-the-art outdoor amenity in omastown.

e last two events held there were a huge success with the entire community coming together with large crowds attending from all over the East and South East of the country. Instead of the hugely popular senior exhibition games previously held, this year the focus was on the younger stars of the future as players from Kilkenny and the South East got a chance to showcase their skills in front of an outdoor crowd.

Russ Ryan said ‘’we could not have asked for better weather, the sun shined all day with the games starting at 11am and nishing up with the main event which was the Youth Exhibition Game. Russ said that the highlight of the day was the exhibition event that was a cracking game of basketball where a youth All Star team select took on

the South East Schools Team. With the game well supported by a very enthusiastic crowd, the All Stars select team went on to win in a nail-biting game winning by just two points in a very exciting encounter with the nal score

63-64. In the under 15 tournament held during the day, teams who participated included, New Ross, Sparks, Old Leighlin BC Carlow, the Kilkenny Stars and the Berkeley Wolves. e nal ended up being a local derby with the Kilkenny Stars edging past the Berkeley Wolves in another great game of basketball. Russ said that this was a very well supported community event where a number of local volunteers once again came

together to put on a great event. With a community barbecue, great tunes being played throughout the day by local DJ Cleveland

and a great atmosphere. Special thanks the omastown Community Centre and to the main sponsors, Kilkenny County Council,

Mike

the omastown Credit Union the Kilkenny and South East Area Basketball Board and Super Valu for all their support.

CLARA GAA AND PARISH LOTTO

The numbers drawn on the 8th June were 2, 9,16. There was no Jackpot Winner. The following received €30 in the Lucky Dip, Pat Campion, Ray Lannen, Evelyn Crotty, Breda Prendergast, Adrian Murphy

CAMOGIE RESULTS

7th July, Senior League, Clara 1-11 V Young Irelands 2-15.

8th July, U16 League QG, Clara 4-08 V Shamrocks Ballyhale 3-09.

HURLING RESULTS

9th July, Minor League, Clara 3-17 v Carrickshock 3-15.

10th July, U14 League, Clara 7-15 v Galmoy/Windgap 4-07.

MINORS WIN

Clara had a narrow 3-17 to 3-15 win over Carrickshock in Clara. This was a top class game between two genuine contenders who were both short four or five probable starters. As good as Clara were at the start Carrickshock were better and their movement up front, particularly from the Franks brothers, was causing Clara problems. They also had a better spread of scorers, with five of their six forwards on the scoresheet by hal ime. In contrast Clara had just two with Joe Power (2-4) and Davy Barcoe (0-1) being the only ones to hit the target. The Shock led 2-10 to 2-5 at the break.

A 1-4 to 0-1 burst at the start of the second half had Clara ahead, the goal coming from Aidan O Connell, and they kept their noses in front for most of the half. However a Carrickshock goal near the end followed by a point gave them the lead again with time running out fast. But two placed balls from the unerring Joe Power and a clinching point from Luke Lawlor gave Clara a deserved win a er an enthralling game. These sides could meet again with bigger stakes.

Team - Ciarán Gibbons, Robert Coogan, Hugh Kelly 0-1, Conor Galvin. Sam Lawlor, Luke Lawlor 0-1, Mícheál Meany. Pádraic Meany, David Barcoe 0-2. Jake Maher, Joe Power 2-13, 0-5f, 0-2 x 65s, Sam Corr. Jack Allen’s, Aidan O Connell 1-0, Jack Byrne.

CARDIAC SCREENING

Cardiac screening has been arranged for Clara GAA Members with Advanced Medical Screening, this is the third time Clara GAA have organised this for our members. We have a few slots le if anyone wants to avail – these slots can be opened to non-members, Contact Caroline 0872330026.

TÚS OR CE SCHEME

If any member knows someone eligible for a Tús or CE scheme, please let us know. The person does not need to be from Clara nor does he or she need to be a member. The club can be considered under these schemes for employment. Contact Caroline 0872330026.

SUMMER CAMP

O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camp is starting on 20th July. Stephen will be in the club on Saturday and Sunday morning at juvenile training to collect any outstanding payments. Payment must be made before camp starts.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated July 8th. The numbers drawn were 1, 9, 24, 28 and the bonus number was 6. Play Now at www. oloughlingaels.com

Promotors Draw. 1 Liam Walsh c/o Ml Doran. 2. Kevin Cleere. 3. Kieran Maher c/o B Maher. 4. Sheila Hanlon C/o Margaret Hanlon. 5. Ciaran He ernan c/o Dan O’Driscoll. 6. Orla Cloney c/o Ml Nolan. 7. M and M c/o G Buckley. 8. Grainne McMillin c/o Online (Eng). 9. Luke Leydon c/o Online. 10. Mark Bergin c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

JUNIOR E LEAGUE FINAL

O’Loughlin Gaels contested the Junior E League final against Dunnamaggin in Gowran last week but despite leading by 0-8 to 0-7 at the interval they lost out to the southern team by 0-18 to 1-10 at the finish. Thoughts will now turn to the championship.

O’Loughlin Gaels were represented by: Daniel McCormack, Michael Twomey, Sean Kiely, Jack Kearns, Peter McNamara, Alan Geoghegan, Kieran Delaney, Mark Croghan (C), Harry Nolan, Michael Butler, Kevin Rowe, Aaron Maher, Joe Bolger, Cathal O’Leary,

Shane Maher. Substitutes: Conor Murphy, Eddie Kearns for Cathal O’Leary, Jack Sinnott for Joe Bolger, Frank Noukeu for Kevin Rowe, Fionn Lawlor for Shane Maher. Scorers were : Shane Maher (0-7, 5 frees), Michael Butler (1-0), Kevin Rowe (0-1) , Aaron Maher (0-1), Joe Bolger (0-1). Rest of Panel – Michael Lambert, Josh Owens, Gavin Mahony, Fionn Lawlor, Vincent Wallace, Sean Cahalane,Eddie Kearns, Jack Sinnott, Luke Hanrahan, Daniel Walsh, Conor Murphy, Jack Aylmer, Tadhg Crowley, Ben Tyrrell, Joe Leydon, Luke Quigley (inj), CJ Mc Chamcheu (inj). Management: Andy Cantwell, Aidan Fogarty, Austin Cooney.

MAYFAIR LIBRARY

A three-week series of writing workshops commenced on Saturday July 12th from 11.30-13.30 and continues on July 19th and 26th. Participants can write as Béarla nó as Gaeilge. The facilitator is poet and playwright Róisín Sheehy. The workshops are free. Tel 056 7794174 to book a place.

GOWRAN PARK

Marietta Doran will judge the Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Man and Best Hairstyle at Gowran Park on July 26th. Limited race day packages available, call 056 7726225 for tickets or gowranpark.ie

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT

Gowran hosted the Leinster Strokeplay finals for Intermediate and Junior Ladies and Junior Gents. In the Ladies Intermediate section Susan Ritchie from RGSC won, Barbara Furlong from Lucan, Runner up and Marion Gannon Kelly McDonagh in third place. 36 Hole Nett for June Vereker from Ashgrove. Ladies Junior section winner was Bronagh Crilly from Cloghogue with our Gowran Ladies Stasia Heafey and Marie Power taking runner up and third place finishes. Gents Junior section saw Paul Core Bagenalstown coming out on top a er the final 18 holes with Liam O’Brien, St Patrick’s runner up and John McDonald taking third place. David Franklin St Patrick’s took the 36 hole Nett.

Well done to all the winners and a huge thanks to all who helped to prepare and present the course

in fantastic condition for today. Also, the Ladies in the kitchen, water station operators for water to keep all the players hydrated, score takers for a long days work updating scores and car park attendants keeping things running smoothly. A great e ort by all, and well done to every player who took part.

GOWRAN AC

Well done to all the athletes who competed at the Nationals and U20 Championships over the past 2 weekends. Reaching the Nationals and competing in such highly competitive events, is a great feat in itself so congrats to all representing the club with their superb performances.

Day 1 All-Irelands, U14 Laoise Glynn Discus 11th, U16 Anna Kelsey Discus 9th. U16 Gearóid Farrell 3000m 13th. U17 Aoibhlinn Steger Pole Vault 4th U17 Odhran Prendergast Long jump 7th. U19 Chloe Lynch Pole Vault 1st. U19 Rachel Gardiner Discus 6th U20 All Irelands. U20 Rachel Gardiner WFD 2nd , Discus 8th, SP 8th. U20 Chloe Lynch Pole Vault 2nd. U20

Andrew Cooper Shot put YOUNG IRELANDS

Congratulations to U14 girls on a fantastic win in their league final. Great battle with an excellent Tullaroan team.

Huge congratulations go out to local lad Davy Brennan from Tinniscarthy and formerly of Kilkenny Street, Freshford. Davy who is son of Frankie and Chrissie Brennan Kilkenny Street, travelled to Alabama to take part in the Police and Fire world games recently and won a gold medal in the powerli ing section. Davy is a firefighter working at Dublin airport and he did his village,county and country very proud indeed. Davy was a great sportsman and was a member of St.Lachtains GAA and Freshford Town soccer teams over the decades and now is part of management and was on backroom team with Kilkenny U20 hurlers this year. There was a special home coming for Davy in his native village on Saturday evening last, when people came out to cheer their local hero and he was paraded around

the streets in a fire engine to rapturous applause followed by a reception in Farrell’s Bar with a welcome to everyone to join in. He was presented with a framed picture and his wife Julia was presented with a bouquet of flowers. Well done Davy, everyone is so proud of you.

BIRTHDAY

Birthday wishes go out to Fiona Butler, Nuenna Court, Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday last weekend. Fiona marked the occasion at a party with family and friends in Kavanagh’s Bar on Saturday night last.

SYMPAHY

Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Anna Duignan, Woodview, Freshford on the death recently of her brother Sean Kelly late of Ballinalacken, and Grove Terrace, Ballyragget. Funeral mass took place in St.Patricks Church, Ballyragget followed by burial in St.Finnans Cemetery, Ballyragget.

CAMOGIE

St Lachtains U12 camogie team travelled to Dublin on Saturday last to take part in the Kilmacud festival of camogie. They played four games in very warm conditions against Kilmacud Crokes, Gailtir, Clarinbrindge and Castlegar coming out winners in all four games. Well done to the girls and all involved.

FOROIGE

Foroige youth club enjoyed an end of season trip to Emerald Park. It was a great first year for the Club and it will resume again in October. Special thanks to all the members, parents and volunteers and to Aidan Gleeson.

CHAMPIONS AT ADAMSTOWN

Well done to local lad Gyll Condon who had another great day at the Adamstown show recently when he got second in the senior ram class, first and second in the hogget class, second and third in the ewe lamb class. His hogget then went on to be tapped reserve Charollais Champion.

GAA NEWS

St. Lachtains junior B hurlers got o to a winning start in this year’s championship when they defeated the Fenians of Johnstown in Pairc Lachtain. on a scoreline of 2-16 to 2-12. The victory sees them qualify straight into the quarter finals.

Team: J.Burke, D.Quinn, L.Kennedy, P.White, H.Burke, J.Bergin, J.Bowdeen, C.Donnelly, A.Ra er, C.Power,J.Fitzpatrick, D.Maher, P.Campion, C.Dawson, C.donnelly – subs – M.Campion, J.Campion, J.Whitty

St Lachtain’s minor hurlers were defeated by neighbours Lisdowney in the Roinn B league last week on a score of Lisdowney 5-14 St.Lachtains 3-14.

The Junior F hurlers take on Mooncoin in first round of championship at Mooncoin on Saturday next at 6.30pm

In the U16B league St.Lachtains take on Mt Leinster Rangers on Monday next at 7pm in Pairc Lachtain.

CAMP

St Lachtain’s annual summer camp takes place in Pairc Lachtain from August 5th to 8th. For more details contact Michael Farrell on 085 1283075 or Deirdre Dalton on 086 3575025 or Check out the clubs social media pages for more details.

PEDESTRIAN CROSSING

As part of the ongoing safety programme in Freshford village a new motorised pedestrian crossing is being installed on the Ballyragget road across from Delaneys. Work has already been going on for the last number of weeks. “The importance of signalized crossings has become apparent with the advent and wholesale transition to electric vehicles which can be di icult to hear and this is a welcome safety feature for both the young and not so young” noted” local Michael Cllr. McCarthy

GRAVE MATTER

Freshford Graveyard is to have a welcome safety first facility and work is ongoing on the long awaited car park according to local Cllr. Michael McCarthy. “Fencing has been erected and ground works are going ahead at the minute “says Cllr McCarthy and he expressed a special word of thanks to Donal O’Sullivan for his co-operation in the matter.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St Lachtain’s Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

LOOP WALK

The Loop Walk in Freshford was awarded €10K under the Walks Development fund Scheme recently. Cllr Michael McCarthy said that this is a great boost locally and will further enhance the project

DAVY WINS GOLD

Davy Brennan

Community & GAA Notes

BRIDGE

Freshford Bridge club will host Open Summer Bridge in Threecastles Hall each Monday at 7.30pm all bridge players welcome.

TIDY

TOWNS

Freshford Tidy Town submitted their 2025 competition application which was quite an undertaking and well done to the volunteers. The Committee are busy at minute cleaning up and painting the seats on the green and they would ask all local residents and visitors to the village to support their application by doing your part where you live or visit. They would welcome all painting, cleaning, litter picks, planting of pollinators and all activities that enhance our beautiful village.

Tidy town’s volunteers meet each Wednesday evening in the village so please come along for a chat and to lend a hand to your community if you can spare an hour.

CAMP

Freshfords longest running camp will take place again this year from 28th July to 1st August at GAA Grounds. The camp was founded by local man JJ Grace and has been running for over 20 years full of activity and fun. Places will be limited. For booking or for more information please contact JJ on 086 8629666. Please note that the 18th July is the last day for bookings.

GRAVYARD MASS

The annual graveyard mass in Tulla cemetery will now take place on Saturday the 9th August at 6pm. This is to allow for mass in Tullaroan later that evening due to the shortage of priests.

SPLIT THE POT

The winner of Split the pot last week was Mary Bergin who won herself €114. The proceeds for the month of June are going to Freshford Tidy towns and you are asked to please support them during that time. The draw will take place every Saturday. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available at Loop café and in all local shops and pubs. Revolut is also available on 08330411011 remember to include your name and address.

NUENNA

GROUP

The County Bs 2025 was a great experience for member of the Nuenna Athletics Group recently and well done to all who attended with some excellent performances. Well done to Michael Bergin coming third in the Abbeyleix House 10K and also Aine and Monica on a great race. Local boy Joey Nolan was in Tullamore recently in the National high jump competition. Membership to Nuenna AC club for the year is €60.

LOOP CAFE

The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter. So why not support your own local café. You could meet a friend for a chat and cuppa or some lovely homemade food. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

Siobhain O Donnell Threecastles is the lucky winner of the beautiful painting which was kindly donated by local artist Michael Cantwell.

PARISH NEWS

Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evening at 7.30pm and 11am Mass in St.Lachtain’s Church on Sundays. There will be no weekday masses for the summer months and it will return in September. Fr. Liam Taylor PP Ballycallan has taken on administrative and pastoral duties in Freshford for the moment. Freshford will be clustered with Tullaroan, Ballycallan and Fr. Liam is co ordinator of the cluster until August. You can contact Fr.Liam on 086 8180954. Fr. Tony O’Connor has been o ering masses in our parishes for past few weeks. With the recent clerical changes in the diocese Fr Mark Condon has been appointed PP for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Fr. Mark served in Danesfort for the past number of years and will take on full pastoral duties in late August.

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

CHOIR

The parish choir are taking a well-deserved break for the summer months and will resume in September.

JUNIOR LEAGUE

The Junior hurlers got their 2025 Junior League campaign o to a flying start with a big 4-19 to 0-07 win over an understrength Mooncoin side in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. Built on a solid defence in which all six backs, Dinny Stapleton, James Tyrrell, Luke Hickey, Sam McEvoy, David Hennessy and Paddy Keogh were outstanding, it a orded the lively forwards to build a 2-10 to 0-05 half time lead. A point blank save by Daniel Power in the 9th minute also blunted the Mooncoin team’s e orts to close the rising gap. The fixture also gave the opportunity for both Mattie McWey on his return from Australia and Mickey Drennan (0-08) from his exploits with Evergreen FC to get some competitive hurling action. Full forward, Andy Parsons also enjoyed a successful outing scoring 3-03 over the hour. The 2nd half continued with the home club in dominant form giving the selectors the opportunity to give substitutes Tuan Hyland, James Bergin, Bill McDermott (1-03), and Tommy Walton (0-01) a chance to display their talents in an all too easy victory. No doubt way tougher fixtures lie ahead.

MINOR LEAGUE

The minor hurlers had to battle hard right to the final whistle in blazing sunshine to claim a 2-24 to 2-19 victory against a strong Erin’s Own side in a fi h round league fixture in Canon Kearns Park. A Bill McDermott point from the throw-in set the ball rolling as they built a 0-05 to 0-01 lead at the 11th minute. Erins Own then found their scoring touch to add two points at 0-05 to 0-03 before both sides lost their accuracy levels being guilty of many misfiring e orts from long range. The ‘Comer lads continued on the o ensive and eventually found their range but points from Diarmuid Behan (17min) and Conor McEvoy (25 min) were needed as goalkeeper Cian Dermody was called on to make a point blank save in the 25th minute to keep James Stephens in front at 0-07 to 0-05. The strong ‘Comer side continued to pressurise the solid Village defenders in which James Bergin, Dara Behan, Tuan Hyland, in particular, stood out. A er Erin’s Own took the lead for the first time in 31st minute at 0-09 to 0-08 a neat passing movement saw Conor McEvoy deliver a pass to Rory Glynn who finished to the net for a 1-08 to 0-09 half time lead for James Stephens. On the resumption a moment’s hesitation by goalkeeper Cian Dermody returned the initiative to the home club who again found their scoring touch, but points from James O’Brien (4min) and Conor McEvoy (4min) soon levelled the game at 1-11 each. In a top quality, hard tackling, fixture the sides traded points balancing each other out on six occasions up to the 15th minute. A run of four points (open play and frees) from the stick of Conor McEvoy opened a three-point lead for James Stephens, 1-19 to 1-16, at the 26th minute. As Erin’s Own continued to respond, further scores from Bill McDermott (0-06 in total) and Andrew Brennan (0-03 total) stretched the visitors lead at 1-22 to 1-18 before Conor McEvoy sealed the result with an impressive catch, turn and strike for a goal in the 30th minute to put the result out of reach for the determined Erin’s Own team who battled to the end to claim a 2nd goal in the 33rd minute. A hard-won league victory at 2-24 to 2-19 and a timely reminder of what’s to come when the championship campaign starts in a few week’s time.

JUNIOR B CHAMPIONSHIP

James Stephens Junior B hurlers successfully negotiated the 1st hurdle of the 2025 Junior “B” hurling championship with a fine-tuned performance to beat Bennettsbridge 4-19 to 1-16 on their home ground. Defying the searing heat and with strong leadership from veterans Jackie Tyrrell, Eoin Larkin and David Walton the James Stephens players set about the task with intensity building a commanding 2-11 to 0-06 half time lead. Contributing to that early flow of scores were “Aussie” returnee, Matty McWey and Tommy Walton who finished to the net having been set up by the evergreen, Eoin Larkin. The ‘Bridge put in a determined e ort throughout the 2nd half but the well organised James Stephens blend of youth and experience always had enough in reserve to forge out a comfortable 4 -19 to 2- 16 victory at the final whistle. Others who contributed to the workman-like victory in di icult warm conditions were defenders Robbie Hayes, Luke Hickey, Jackie Tyrrell and midfielders Stephen Power-Kellett and Sean Casey while Bill McDermott and Mattie McWey were always dangerous in attack. Well done lads.

ALL-IRELAND JUNIOR FOOTBALL

It was a disappointing result for clubman Fionn Cody, our sole representative on the team, selector

Brian Sheeran and team physio Niall Brassil as the Kilkenny Junior football team were narrowly beaten 1-17 to 0-17 by a well drilled London side in the sweltering heat of Abbottstown, Dublin in Friday evening’s All-Ireland Junior football semi-final. With the teams level at 0-08 each, at half time, it took a goal in the 43rd minute by London’s Ali Carney to break the deadlock and despite laying siege on the Londoners goalmouth over the final minutes of the game the Kilkenny men could not breach the tight visitors defence for the levelling score. A huge e ort by the Kilkenny men that just came up short.

CEMETERY MASS

The annual Foulkstown cemetery Mass of Remembrance for family members and friends will take place on Thursday evening, 31st July at 7.30pm. Please pass on the word to family members who may be resident outside of the parish, or further afield, who would like to attend the hugely popular evening of prayer for deceased relations and friends.

CREATIVE WRITING

Librarian Alan Dunne, wishes to know if there are people in the local community interested in being part of a new Creative Writing Group which would meet in Loughboy Library on a regular basis to contact him at the library 056 7794176 or email loughboy@kilkennylibrary.ie

LOTTO

Last week’s numbers were 1, 12, 21, 26. There was no winner. This week’s jackpot is.The €40 consolation winners were Paddy Noonan, B. Kavanagh, Joe Murray, Jim Fogarty, Helena McCormack.

EAST END AWARDS NIGHT

A huge congratulations to all amazing players on a brilliant season! A fantastic Awards Night was held on Saturday in the Community Hall, a night full of pride, applause, and well-earned recognition. Award winners; U12s Div 1A League Champions,

Joint Players of the Year: Robbie O’Malley and Robbie Dobbyn. Most Improved: Sean McCabe. U13 Girls Div 1A KDL Player of the Year: Ellie Killian. Joint Players of the Year: Ellie Killian and Lily Mai Meighan. U13 Player of the Year: Elliot Morrissey. Most Improved: Tommy Hoyne. U14 Yellow Div 2A League Champions. KDL Player of the Year: Artim Kolomiyets. Player of the Year: Cian Mulcahy. Most Improved: Danny Reade. U14 Div 1 KDL Player of the Year: Evan O’Dwyer. U14 Green Player of the Year: Ben Fitzgerald. Most Improved: Glen Ryan. U15 Girls Div 1A KDL Player of the Year: Katie Mulcahy. Joint Players of the Year: Ava Walsh and Amy Hughes. Ladies Player of the Year: Aoibhe Ryan. Men’s Junior Div 3 Player of the Year: Michael Molloy. Men’s Junior Div 2 League and Cup Champions. KDL and Players’ Player of the Year: Mick O’Neill. Player of the Year: Gearoid Kent. Clubperson of the Year: Richie Walsh, for incredible dedication behind the scenes

A huge thank you to every player, coach, parent, and supporter who made this season so special. Here’s to even more success next year

Congratulations to Alowen Grimes and Harry Brennan, who were recently recognised for representing East End in the KDSL U12 Development Squad. A well-deserved honour for these two talented young players!

JAMES TYNAN MEMORIAL

The James Tynan memorial Race was run during the summer camp last week. Pauline Tynan and her son Joe presented trophies to all the children. Winner of the cup was Saoirse Meany and under 7 was Jayne Maher. There was great entertainment with the mother, father, granny and grandad races. Mother’s race won by Linda Kinsella by a short head with all the other mothers hot on her heels. Dad and Grandad race was won by Derek Lanagan, 2nd James Roberts and Dennis O’ Gorman.

Other prize winners were Hazel and Hannah Mulrooney, Emily Healy, Leah Phelan, Zosia and

Alowen Grimes and Harry Brennan pictured with Damien Grimes

Mya Morris, Liam and Evelyn Alcorn, James and Dylan Roberts, Luca Murphy, Sarah Delaney, Rosia and Evie Deegan, Amelia and Ada Melody, Faye and Edie McLaughlin, Anya O’ Neill, Leah Smith, Rose, Alice and Henry kinsella, Ava Nolan, Isla Massey, Isla Lanagan, Aisling Moran, Alxi Galway,Sophie and Fia Dobbyn, Amelia Meany, Ben Burke, Nicky Fanning, Amy Tynan, Emily Hayes and Willow Simpson.

Great credit is due to Stella Carroll and her team for their commitment to this camp and other local events including Irish dancing classes and camogie.

SUNDAYS IN CRAFTED Ladies and others who like to lunch will be pleased to hear that the popular local Cra ed Cafe will be open on Sundays for the summer season, from 20th July onwards. LOTTO

There was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbers drawn were, 11, 12, 22, 25. Consolation Prizes went to, Luke Dowling, Bennettsbridge, Kay Cody, Stroan, Patty Davey, Woodlawn, Ann Grant, Fr Duggan, Shangarry Syndicate

James Tynan Memorial Race won by Saoirse Meaney, pictured with Pauline Tynan

Mothers Race Participants

Mothers Race Participants

Community & GAA Notes

August 7.30pm

ART GROUP

The Art Group are continuing preparations for the annual art exhibition to be mounted during Kilkenny Arts Week.

GAA

Hard luck to manager Christy Walsh, James Carroll and Jamie Harkin and to the Kilkenny team who lost out narrowly to London in the All Ireland football semi final in Abbottstown last Friday evening. The Pitch signage campaign is well underway with a good number of businesses coming on board. There are still places available and many thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far. If interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

Hard luck to the Junior B team who lost out to James Stephens in the championship. They play the next round this weekend with opposition and venue to be decided. The junior E team play Conahy in their first round. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for upcoming Bennettsbridge fixture details or changes. On the juvenile side, the under 14 team are playing well in the Roinn A league with recent victories over Dicksboro, Ballycallan, John Lockes and, they now play in a three way play o with O’ Loughlin’s and James Stephens to see who qualifies to play Mooncoin in the league final. To raise awareness of the dangers of Skin cancer the Bennettsbridge Healthy club, in association with the NCCP, has installed a sunscreen dispenser in the old dressing rooms and uploaded information on the dangers of skin cancer on the clubs social media pages.

SUMMER CAMP 2025

This year’s summer camp will take place between August 5th and 8th in the GAA grounds. To register for this fun filled activity camp please contact Cormac Wafer or Enda Morrissey.

FIELD DAY 2025

This year’s Field Day will take place on 31st August in the club grounds. All the usual attractions for a real family day.

NEW AWAY JERSEY AND BASEBALL HAT

Our new away jersey is now for sale online on the club’s O’Neill shop. A baseball hat has also now been added to the range. Go to the website to see the New Jersey and all other ‘Bridge gear for sale.

SPLIT THE POT

Well done to Eamon McGrath who won 111 euro, Gerry McGrath who won 30 euro and Bernadette Bergin who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the support.

CAMOGIE

The U8 camogie team took part in a blitz at the weekend in O’Loughlin Gaels with Windgap. It was a very hot morning, but the girls played like superstars in the beautiful sunshine.

Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm. Cemetery masses will take place at 7.30pm on Friday 18th July at Queen of Peace cemetery in Goresbridge and at Goresbridge church graveyard at 7.30pm on Saturday 26th July.

Church of Ireland services are held on Sunday, 20th July at Shankill, Paulstown (10.00am) and at Borris (11.30am).

TALKING THE TALK

Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues this Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

MEN’S SHED

The next meeting is at 11am on 29th July beside Paulstown Community Centre. Cup of tea, chat, woodwork and upcoming visits to other sheds. We welcome new members or just the occasional visitor to drop in and chat. New skills welcome too!

MRS CORNWALL RIP

The death has taken place of Marie Cornwall late of Paulstown. Predeceased by her loving husband Michael, parents Walter and Bridget (B.B) sister-inlaw Angela. Deeply regretted by her heartbroken brother Peter, nephews Barry and Brian, niece Kathy, grandnephews and grandnieces Laoise, Laragh, Aisling, Jack and Cara, relatives, neighbours and friends.

SHANKILL CASTLE

Shankill Castle is open to the public each weekend (11.00am – 5.00pm).

SPLIT THE POT

Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie Results of the draw held on 13th July: 1. S. Kelly (€100), 2. Catherine Kennedy (€20), 3. Claire McLoughlin-Hynes.

DONATIONS

Tar Isteach is looking for good quality bric a brac, household items, it comes in and goes out twice as fast - also good quality men’s clothes, handbags etc. we have enough toys and books for the moment!

TIDY THURSDAYS (GORESBRIDGE)

Help needed even if you just want to help in your own estate. On Thursdays we meet at 7pm in the locality. See relevant facebook pages for detail of location. There is a lot of weeding, strimming and painting to be done.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC CONCERT

Mick McAuley and John Doyle will perform in Ionad Dara in Goresbridge on Friday 5th September at 8.30pm. Tickets are available through the normal channels including eventbrite.

LOCAL LADY IS LAOIS ROSE

County Council under its Community Events Grant Scheme ’25.

CHAPELGATE BOOK SALE

Well done to Gayle Hearne who raised €2343 from this year’s Chapelgate Book Sale. Gayle would like to acknowledge the receipt of books and donations received over the past two months which helped this total to be raised. She would also like to acknowledge the great help received from her sales assistants, Eimear, Hannah, Lexi, Ali, Lily and Mai. The funds raised will be used to support Seán McCarthy in his recovery from traumatic brain injury.

TWINNING

A group from Saint-Thurien will visit Kilmacow from Saturday, 19th July. This year’s visit is special as it will mark the 30th anniversary of the twinning of Kilmacow and Saint-Thurien in Sant-Thurien in 1995.

COUNCIL WORKS

An Emergency Road Closure is expected to continue into next week to facilitate works to the parapet wall on a bridge on the local road L3408 at Strangsmills. A tra ic management system will be in place for the duration of the works.

Surfacing dressing works are scheduled from Narabane to Lacey’s Cross from next Monday, 21st July. A tra ic management system will be in place for the duration of the works.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 15, 19, 20 and 26. There were five Lucky Dips at €40 each. The Jackpot for next Thursday night is €8,100.

MAINTENANCE OF OLD GRAVEYARD

The working group for local graveyards will continue its work for this year at the Lower Street, Kilmacow from 2.00pm on Saturday, 19th July. All o ers of assistance appreciated.

GO FUND ME

ART WORKSHOP (PAULSTOWN)

A weekend drawing and painting studio practice led by Elizabeth Cope at Shankill Castle will run on 26th and 27th July. Each day will be of intense work, inspired by woodland landscape and garden produce. Participants may bring their own materials to develop a sustained work and supporting drawings from life. Bookings & enquiries: phoebecope@gmail.com

BARROW RANGERS

Congratulations to the Under-14s Camogie team who won the league recently beating Ballyhale Shamrocks with just a goal separating them.

BRIDGE UNITED

There was no winner in last week’s lotto draw of 8 July. Match 3 numbers (€100) to Moling Grennan. Promoter’s Prize: John Quinn. Tickets cost €2 and can be bought locally or click on the Clubforce link.

A new Under-23s team has been established. Info: James on 087 797 1276. Also, girls welcomed to join the Under-12s. Info: Clodagh Corrigan 087 296 2608 as well as Under-11s and Under 10s (contact Claire Barcoe 085 745 3605).

CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses are held on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30am in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday and at 10am on Wednesday in Goresbridge. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each

A cabaret will be held to support Katelyn Cummins on July 19th in the Wheel Inn, to support her quest to be the Rose of Tralee. Music by Aisling Ra ery along with a monster ra le. Proceeds will be divided between the Jack and Jill Foundation and the Laois Rose SYMPATHY

Sympathies to the family of Joan Dooley Ballyconra, on her passing. Joan’s funeral mass took place in St Patrick’s Church, Ballyragget, Sympathies sent to the family of John Kelly Attanagh who passed away and was laid to rest last week following his funeral mass in St Patrick’s Church, Ballyragget.

COIS NORE

Cois Nore Outreach service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, the Square, Ballyragget.

Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquiries welcome.

ROSEDALE GARDEN PARTY

The annual Rosedale Garden Party held last Saturday was a lovely occasion and a huge success. Residents, their families and friends, sta , board members and the local community enjoyed the varied fare on o er including the music, food and refreshments, children’s face painting, vintage car display and the array of farm animals. A special word of thanks to the sta and local volunteers who put in endless hours preparing for the event. Thanks to Countrystyle Foods and to Callan Premium Foods for the delicious food and refreshments and to Nore Valley Farm and Fantasy Face Art for the entertainment provided for the large number of children in attendance. Rosedale would also like to acknowledge the support received from Kilkenny

Tom Healy

Katelyn Cummins

Kilmacow Sports Complex Committee has opened a Go Fund Me page for 2025 to help with the upkeep and maintenance of the facilities, amenities and grounds at the Sports Complex. All support welcome.

ROSEDALE CLASSIC

The annual Rosedale Classic will be held on Friday, 22nd August at Waterford Golf Course. The cost per table of four is €120. Please contact Martin Bolger or Éamon Rice for details and tee times.

RAMBLING HOUSE

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

NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEK

Heritage Week will run from the 16th to 24th August. It o ers a great opportunity to celebrate and share Kilkenny’s rich heritage. This year’s theme is Exploring Our Foundations will enable a range of local heritage, including natural, built and cultural elements to be showcased. The registration portal is now open on the Heritage Week website. Groups must register by Wednesday, 30th July to be included in the Kilkenny Guide.

COUNCIL WORKS

A section of the LS3416 at Catsrock is scheduled for surface dressing works from Monday, 21st July. A tra ic management plan will be in place for the duration of the works.

ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Mount Carmel Supported Care Home invites you to celebrate with them on their 40th Anniversary with the launch of “ I’ll Never Be Lonely Again” by Frank McKenna. A History of Mount Carmel. The launch will take place at the Annual Family Fun Day on the grounds of Mount Carmel Callan on the 19th July 2025 2.00 pm – 4.00 pm. Light refreshments and music on the day. All are welcome.

MOUNT CARMEL DRAW RESULTS

July Draw - €200 Maura and Tom Townsend Attitenoe, €100 Pipah Bradshaw Westcourt, €30 each to Eamon McGuire Callan, Julie Nolan Knockreagh, James Morris, Emmet Nolan Knockreagh, Danny Millea Callan PO, Rosie Treacy Callan Co-op. Joan Downey Butlerswood, Lisa O Neill Minauns, Johnny Butler Bridge St, Sally Brett Mount Carmel. Promoter’s prizes €15 each to Caroline Murphy, Mary Clancy and Frank McKenna. August Draw - €200 Mia Ryan Ballymack, €100 Colaiste Abhainn Ri Callan, €30 each Jimmy Walsh Mill St, Michael O Neill 7 MC Bungalow, Eileen Maher Newlands, James Quigley Attitenoe, Shane Doyle Callan, Una Stapleton Coolalong, Rita McCarthy Ballywalters, Darren Doheny Monamought, Luca Armellino C/o Gina O Donovan, Kevin Moore Greenshill. Promoter’s prize €15 Tom Maher, Rachel Murray, Margaret Ryan.

1848 FAMINE WALK

The 19th Annual Walk from The Commons village to the nearby OPW National Monument “Famine Warhouse” takes place this year on Saturday, July 26th at 3pm. Walk Leader and Speaker will be local Senator, Imelda Goldsboro. Organised by the Ballingarry 1848 Committee, there will be history, music and refreshments. All are welcome.

LOTTO

Results for 7th July. Numbers drawn were 10; 11; 13; 25. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Eoin Burke, Aoife Browne and Josie Ronan. Seller’s prizes went to Mary O’Connor and Martin Prendiville.

LOCAL PATTERNS

The Pattern of the Old Cemetery in Kilmanagh will take place on Thursday, 31st July. Killaloe Pattern will take place on 9th August. Tullaroan Cemetery mass will take place on Friday 15th August and St. Michael’s Pattern will take place on Sunday 28th September.

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.

are welcome

KNOCK

The annual pilgrimage to Knock from Johnstown parish will take place on Thursday August 7th departing 8am. Cost of the coach € 25 and must be paid by July 26th. The pilgrimage depends on su icient numbers going so please give your names immediately to Marie Wilson 0868585158 or to Sharkeys Shop in Johnstown. In order to facilitate pilgrims there will be a stop at the Grand Hotel, Moate for breakfast. Tea/Co ee and a scone at € 5.25 or if you would like a cooked breakfast it may be ordered from the bus. On the return journey the bus will stop at the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon where there will be a two course dinner plus tea for € 30.

NORTH KILKENNY CFR GROUP

The North Kilkenny CFR Group will hold a fundraiser in “The Crosspatrick” on Saturday. July 19th. at 9pm. Admission is € 10 which includes food and a door prize. Music by the local super group “Sweet Freedom”. A great cause worthy of your support.

MR. JIMMY LOOBY

Jimmy, late of Canal Road, died peacefully at Fennor Hill Nursing home. Predeceased by his parents Bernard and Kitty, he will be greatly missed by his brothers Paddy and Liam, sisters in law Elizabeth and Kay, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Jimmy was laid to rest in Johnstown Cemetery a er Requiem Mass in St. Kieran’s Church.

GRAVEYARD MASS

On a beautiful evening there were huge numbers at the annual graveyard Mass in Johnstown Cemetery. Mass was celebrated by Fr. Ollie Maher and Fr. Martin Tobin, with suitable hymns by Eddie and Noirin Cullinane. Great credit to all the families who have relatives buried there as the place looked very smart and colourful in the evening sunlight.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers were 2,4,16,21. There was no jackpot winner but there was one match three, well done Mairead Curran.

RAMBLING HOUSE

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

NATIONAL HERITAGE WEEK

Heritage Week will run from the 16th to 24th August. It o ers a great opportunity to celebrate and share Kilkenny’s rich heritage. This year’s theme is Exploring Our Foundations will enable a range of local heritage, including natural, built and cultural elements to be showcased. The registration portal is now open on the Heritage Week website. Groups must register by Wednesday, 30th July to be included in the Kilkenny Guide.

COUNCIL WORKS

A section of the LS3416 at Catsrock is scheduled for surface dressing works from Monday, 21st July. A tra ic management plan will be in place for the duration of the works.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

ANNUAL CYCLE

Ballysloe annual Louise Guilfoyle 6km, 8km or 10km cycle takes place this Saturday 19th July. Registration 1pm followed by music and dance, celebrating 10 years of Ballysloe Tidy Towns.

THE ROSARY

Will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Glengoole on weekday evenings at 6pm, Saturday before 6pm Mass and Sunday 12 noon.

CEMETERY MASSES

CHURCH NEWS

Crosspatrick Church Ministers of the Word are looking for new ministers to join the readers group. Please contact Phil on 0872627120for more information. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

ROSARY

The Rosary will be recited in the old graveyard, Donoughmore on Tuesday July 22nd at 7.30pm. All

and Blessing of Religious Objects. Sacred Music on the day will be led by Cashel and Emly Diocesan Choir. We look forward to welcoming Pobal Ailbhe to Knock Shrine on our Diocesan Day.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er including a special €500 game. Your continued support is always appreciated by the Committee.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Ailish Thompson who won €200 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for July is in aid of Gortnahoe Tidy Towns. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

BEST WISHES

Best wishes to Liam Cahill and the Tipperary team in the All Ireland hurling final this Sunday in Croke Park.

HURLING

The junior B hurlers lost out by 1-18 to 0-16 to Dicksboro in the opening round of the JJ Kavanagh Junior B championship in Palmerstown on Saturday a ernoon last. The very hot weather made it a challenge for both teams but the game was of a very high standard. The home side led by 1-8 to 0-10 at half-time, and were the better side in the second half to ensure a five point victory.

The minor hurlers enjoyed a high scoring win over Mount Leinster Rangers in Jenkinstown in the Kilkenny Motor Centre Roinn B League. Some excellent point scoring throughout was the highlight of Conahy’s performance, however the Carlow men managed to find the net on six occasions. Fortunately, Conahy were able to hold on for a five point victory, winning by 3-28 to 6-14.

The under-16 hurlers lost out to a strong Young Irelands team in Gowran in the Duggan Steel Roinn B League. However, the young Conahy side produced some good hurling in the opening half to be only a point in arrears before the home side pushed ahead in the second half.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 2, 27 and 38. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners were Kjartan Rigby, Patrick Walsh, Maura Buggy, Paddy and Maura Walker and Tony Duggan. The promoter prize winners were John McGrath, Helen Cahill and Peter Mulhall. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

POLO GROUNDS SPONSORSHIP

Recently, Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club has undertaken a pitch side sponsorship programme, and this has been a huge success todate. Over the last 12 weeks, the club have placed 53 advertisements around the main playing pitch in the Polo Grounds.

Another 17 advertisements can still be accommodated around the pitch, and in this regard the club is asking members and parishoners for help to secure additional sponsors.

If any business / family / group of friends would like to discuss this option please contact Brian Gallagher on 087-1365666.

COIS NORE OUTREACH SUPPORT

The following dates has been set for the annual cemetery masses in the parish. All mass times will be at 7.30pm. Thursday 31st July, Fennor cemetery and Tuesday 12th August, Boulick cemetery. 19TH ANNUAL FAMINE 1848 WALK 26th July at 3pm starting at the National Flag monument in The Commons and proceeding to the Famine Warhouse 1848. Music and refreshments, all are welcome.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK

Cashel and Emly diocesan pilgrimage to Knock takes place on Sunday, August 3rd led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. Pilgrimage programme commences at 2pm with Rosary, followed by Anointing of the Sick, concelebrated Mass, Rosary Procession

Contact castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie or ring the Library on 056-4440561. All are welcome. OurKidsCode Family Coding Workshop - Join us for a fun and engaging way for parents and kids to explore STEM and coding togetherExperience OurKidsCode in these 2-hour Taster Workshop on Saturday, July 19th or July 26th from 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. Activities are aimed at 7-12 year olds. but all are welcome. These are family events and children must bring an adult with them for the workshop. Booking is required. Contact castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie or ring the Library on 056-4440561. All are welcome.

Local History Study Circle - If you have an interest in Local History and would like to meet likeminded people, why not join our new Local History Study Circle. This is a monthly session starting on Tuesday, July 22nd from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., where you can chat with others about local history, browse through our library resources and do some research on our own area of interest. No booking is required.

MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH

Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m.Vigil - Saturday 19th 8.00p.m. Sunday 20th 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, VigilSaturday 19th. at 6.30p.m.

Cemetery Mass will be celebrated in Sheepstown Cemetery on Friday 18th. July at 7.30p.m.

PRAY FOR Pat Brennan, Rathdu , Stoneyford: who died during the week.

Months Mind Mass Paddy Raggett, Kilkenny and Stoneyford: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 19th. July at 6.30p.m. Anniversary Mass next weekend: Tom Butler, Boolyglass, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 20th. July at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (SIXTEENTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR) Reader, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Catherina Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy: Sunday 10.00a.m. Noreen Kenneally. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm. Marion Barron. Sunday 10.00am. Ann Power

SAFEGUARDING IN THE DIOCESE OF OSSORY: Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche. JUNE COLLECTION:

Many thanks for your very generous contribution during the past few weeks.

STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT AGM

On Wednesday the 3rd. of September, Stoneyford Text Alert will hold their AGM at 7.30p.m. in the Community Centre and everyone is invited to attend. Existing committee members are stepping down and a new committee will be elected on the night.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 7th. July 2025, the numbers drawn were: 05; 28; 04; 27. There was no winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. There was no Jackpot Winner. The following were €30.00. winners: Aisling Rohan, Carraigetna; Pauline Doyle, Sheepstown;.Emily Comerford, Mullinbeg; Paul Aylward, “On-Line”; P and C. Hudson, c/o James Irish. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Ger Carroll, Jimmy Sheehan, Tommy Murphy. DATE TO REMEMBER

Mass will be celebrated in Stonecarthy Cemetery on Friday 1st. August at 7.30p.m.

THOMASTOWN LIBRARY

Cois Nore Outreach cancer support service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at the Dr Hogan’s Rooms, the Square in Ballyragget and in Castlecomer on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 12 noon at the Old Court house, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquiries are welcome.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS

Some upcoming events in Castlecomer Library include the following:

Harry Potter Potions - Join Anyone 4 Science for a Harry Potter themed Potions Workshop on Friday, July 18th from 11.00 a.m. to 11.45 a.m. Make some fantastic fizzing potions! Is it magic or is it science? This is suitable for ages 5+. Booking is required.

Opening Times,Tuesdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. Wednesdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m.: 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m.: 5.30.m. to 8.00p.m. Thursdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. Fridays: 10.00a.m. to 1.00p.m. and 2.00p.m. to 5.00p.m. Saturdays: 10.00a.m. to 1.30p.m. (closed on Saturday of Bank Holiday weekends). For more information please contact Thomastown Library – thomastown@kilkennylibrary.ie.

CARRICKSHOCK G. A. A. CLUB

Many thanks for your very generous support to the Golf Classic and Piltown Draw which were held recently.

STONEYFORD CEMETERY

Stoneyford Cemetery Committee would like to thank all who contributed to the collection for the maintenance and upkeep of Stoneyford Cemetery at the recent Cemetery Mass, the amount collected was €345.00.

Hurlng matters - Preview

Sport

All-Ireland SHC Final Cork vs Tipperary

As we approach the third Sunday in July, the biggest game in the intercounty hurling season is upon us. All roads lead

to Croke Park for the players and supporters of both Cork and Tipperary as the battle for the Liam MacCarthy reaches its conclusion, barring the need for a replay which would stretch the season into August. e buzz for the big day out in Dublin is always a brilliant thing, the quest for tickets, accommodation, restaurants, transport etc. Unfortunately for Gaels on Noreside, we don’t have this buzz to worry about, but there will still be many local eyes on the national broadcaster’s coverage along with some who have been lucky enough to secure a ticket for the decider.

Almost a fortnight ago, our senior hurlers fell to neighbours’ Tipperary in a pulsating seminal clash at the Jones’ Road venue. In a game not without a little controversy, it was Liam Cahill’s out t that got over the line, with just two points separating the rivals at the long whistle. And that is where the controversy lay. e scoreboard inside the stadium had e Premier County ahead by 3 points, which meant Kilkenny were trying to manufacture a goal scoring opportunity to force extra-time, when in fact popping over a couple of points would have led to another twenty minutes of rip-roaring fare between the sides. As a player in the cauldron of Croker, you can see how our stickmen would have glanced at the display to con rm what they needed to do. Did Kilkenny work opportunities in stoppage time to tag on two points? Yes, bloody yes! Were Tipperary the better team over the 74-odd minutes of battle, yes, probably, yes. ere was no guarantee that despite having a numerical advantage over the blue and gold clad side that the Cats would be won had the game gone to extra-time, but you can’t help but feel that had they have been aware of the ‘real’ di erence, scoring wise between the teams that we might just might, have notched the points.

of the Tipperary v Kilkenny that error by time e Sunday must admit, my notes had the a score? I for one thought the

After the game the GAA issued a statement, “ e GAA can con rm that the o cial score at the end GAA Hurling All-Ireland Senior Championship Semi-Final was 4-20 to 0-30. e GAA acknowledges there was confusion over the nal score. e CCCC is awaiting the full referees report in order to establish how the initial mistake occurred”. Somewhat surprisingly, RTE also had the score incorrect, but xed Game aired later that evening. I score correct, it left me questioning my concentration, had I missed o cial scoreboard in Drumcondra

Cork TipRebel’s

surely was more accurate than a 53-year-old man with a fetish for Specsavers! We now know that Wexford whistler, James Owens had the correct score recorded in his book, so our boys will have to know for the next time to keep badgering the ref if it’s a close game. I think it’s fair to say that the Kilkenny County Board were never going to appeal or make a big deal out of the scoreboard issue. I think the Disputes Resolution Authority (DRA) would have thrown any appeal out quickly.

Now that’s out of my system, let’s look at Sunday’s game. Cork and Tipp go head-to-head on Sunday, (throw-in 3:30pm) in what is the rst All-Ireland Hurling nal

Jason Forde will ‘back’ himself in the final

Darragh Mc Carthy can pose a threat to Rebel dreams

Hurling matters - Preview

k hurt could p balance in Rebel’s favour

Liam will be going to a new home on Sunday evening

between the two Munster counties. Given the provinces ‘domination’ in hurling over the last decade or so, it’s probably no surprise that this will be the sixth all Munster decider clash. Kilkenny’s conquerors Tipperary have tasted success in the shape of Liam more recently than this year’s opponents, having lifted the big prize in 2019, enough said, moving on. Cork on the other hand must rewind some 20-odd years for their last triumph when they defended their title in 2005. Cork are currently the second most successful county in terms of senior titles with 30, just the six behind,

you know who. e Premier County are hot on the heels of the Rebels and are just two titles behind the Leesiders.

Pat Ryan’s charges will be appearing in their second consecutive nal, having lost out

in last season’s decider to e Banner and some Tony Kelly magic. Cork regrouped and went again this year and will be aiming to go one better at the expense of Liam Cahill’s men. is season the Rebels signaled their intent by claiming the Allianz League title, defeating Sunday’s opponents in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on a scoreline of 3-24 to 0-23. is was the second meeting between the sides, Tipp having won the earlier league meeting in urles, but came unstuck in the Allianz nal and the Munster championship group game which

was also played at the Supervalu sponsored Cork venue.

In Patrick Horgan, the Leesiders possess the top scorer in championship history, a Rebel TJ if you like. ey also have the rampaging duo of Alan Connolly and Darragh Fitzgibbon. Blackrock’s Connolly appears to relish playing e Premier County and has notched 5-1 in three previous championship meetings. Fitzgibbon is likely to be picked up by the experienced Ronan Maher, and this could be a great battle in dictating which side gets on top.

Cork skipper Rob Downey is likely to shadow the lively Jake Morris, while his younger brother Eoin could renew acquaintances with John McGrath, having locked horns

with him in the round robin game in April. Sean O’Donoghue will no doubt say hello again to Darragh McCarthy, the latter will need to temper his temper! Niall O’Leary could be the right t for Jason Forde. In terms of Tipp, the management team made a change to the placed ball taker against the Cats, with Silvermines Forde taking over duty from rising star McCarthy, perhaps sensing the colour red was coming. It will be interesting to see if they revert to the norm, with the Toomevara player resuming this vital part of the game. e Premier County have really risen from the ashes this season, following what was a di cult and forgetful campaign for them in 2024. Getting to the league decider was a sign of progress, while the long and winding road to Croke Park saw them overcome Laois and Galway with plenty to spare and a 2-point (accuracy guaranteed) victory over Kilkenny. During the semi nal win Tipp had great showings from Conor Stakelum, who was a late change in the team named, alongside the usual suspects of John McGrath, Jake Morris and Jason Forde. row Darragh McCarthy, Sam O’Farrell and goalscoring sub sensation Oisin O’Donoghue into the mix and there are plenty of threats in blue and gold. How the Tipp defence deal with the Cork threats will be key also. Michael Breen may look to curb Pa Horgan’s in uence in Croker, while the athletic Eoghan Connolly may tag Brian Hayes. Some mouthwatering clashes all over the pitch. Perhaps Cork are more seasoned and have that hurt from ‘24 to draw on but as Tipperary have shown this season, their complex appears to allow them to go to the well and come out with plenty of water. Both sides like to strike majors, which should mean the netminders are busy at both ends. Galway’s Liam Gordon will be the man in the middle and the Killimor clubman won’t stand for any nonsense. e head says Cork, but in hurling you just never know...

Patrick Horgan will look to add to his gowing tally

Patrick Collins coud be busy on Sunday

Ronan Maher

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I Stephanie Wickham intend to apply for Planning permission for hip roof to gable and dormer to rear roof to accommodate stairs to allow conversion of attic as non habitable storage space with roof windows to front roof, gable window to both gable sides all with associated ancillary works at 1 Willow grove, oakridge, Ferr, oakridge, Ferrybank, Co Kilkenny. X91FH3C

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ices 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client George Leahy.

Permission to construct (i) Cubicle shed extension with slatted tank (ii) Cubicle shed with slatted tanks and all associated site works at Craddockstown, Woodsgi , Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 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.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Further Information/Revised Plans:

Vincent Power and Katie O’ Gorman have submitted significant further information to planning application 2460655 which consisted of Permission to construct a bungalow, garage, entrance, wastewater treatment system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Baunta Commons, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.

The significant further information includes:

A Natura Impact Statement (Stage 2 Appropriate Assessment) to assess the potential impacts of the proposed development on the River Barrow and River Nore SAC and River Nore SPA.

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the O ices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 5 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

1, Richard Holden, intend to apply for Planning Permission for development at 13 Mooncoin Heights, Mooncoin, Co. Kilkenny. X91 YK18. The development will consist of the conversion of existing garage into living accommodation, widening of existing entrance and driveway, replacement of existing windows and doors, replacement of existing fascia, so it and guttering and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ices 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: Richard Holden

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Sharon & James Dunne intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain attic conversion, internal changes and external changes to front, rear and side elevations and all associated site development works at Loan, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the o ices 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.

KILKENNY

COUNTY COUNCIL

The representative of Martin Fitzpatrick’s estate intends to apply to the above Authority for permission to retain the following,

1. Alterations to dwelling house.

2. Extensions to dwelling house.

3. Outhouses and sheds.

4. Alterations to site boundaries.

All from that as previously Granted Planning permission under Planning reference number P.1/1/2149, with all associated siteworks. Located at Borrismore, Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny. Eircode E41 P603.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding a reasonable cost of making a copy at the o ices of the Planning Authority during public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writhing on payment of the prescribed fee of € 20 within a period of five weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

LINDA READE 30TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Linda whose 30th Anniversary occurs at this time.

The day you went away….

They say that times a healer

But as the time goes on

We seem to find it just as hard

To face the fact you’re gone

And today its the anniversary

Of the day you went away

And as we stand here at your graveside And believe us when we say

You’ll never be forgotten

And every year we shed a tear

But its only because we love you And wish you were still here

From Man, Dad, Brian & Michelle Sister-in-law, Brother-in-law, Nieces and Nephews.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 27th July in St. Canices Church at 10.00am

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en 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. B.A.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. P.OK.

The

Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.

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

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en 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. E.M.

The

Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. is 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. en 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. A.B.