Kilkenny Observer 20 February 2026

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Murphy Prime Suspect

Dig after intel says rapist killed woman and buried her

Convicted rapist Larry Murphy killed a woman and buried her on this isolated stretch of land in Co Wicklow, according to sources close to the Gardaí.

Officers have been given what they judge to be credible information about a buried vehicle at the site that contains the remains of the woman.

Another side to Culleton

‘He is just digging a hole for himself,’ say abandoned twin girls

The deportation of Kilkenny man Seamus Culleton, who is being held in a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in El Paso, Texas, has been temporarily halted.

Culleton, originally from Glenmore, was detained by ICE in September 2025 while he was in the process of applying for his Green Card.

Just before his move to America, the District Court in New Ross issued arrest warrants in 2009 on drugs charges.

Lawyers for Culleton, the BOS Legal Group in Boston, Massachusetts, said a court had issued a temporary order pausing his deportation for 10 business days.

The Department of Homeland Security said it was unlikely he would be allowed to stay in the US.

Culleton entered the US in 2009 under the visa waiver programme, which allows people to stay in the US for 90 days without needing a visa. He is married to a US citizen, Tiffany, and owns a plastering business in the Boston area. He has lived in the US for almost 18 years.

The anonymous information, which Gardaí believe is related to Murphy, was credible enough that officers had earlier sealed off the stretch of land – just 10km north of Murphy’s former address in Baltinglass, Co Wicklow – to excavate the area.

While the anonymous caller did not name Murphy, the

suspicious burial activity reported, the timing of it, as well as where Murphy lived at the time, has brought him back into focus.

Gardaí are now set to spend more days excavating the site in the hope that the intelligence is accurate. Sources told national daily papers that, although the families of miss-

ing women Deirdre Jacob (18) and Jo Jo Dullard (21) were notified of the search, Gardaí are not linking the two disappearances – and do not believe both women are there.

Ms Jacob was last seen outside her home in Newbridge, Co Kildare, in July 1998, which is 30km north of the search site. Ms Dullard was last seen

in Moone, Co Kildare – some 17km to the west of the site –in November 1995.

Murphy, who served 10 years for the rape and attempted murder of a woman in Co Carlow in 2000, has long been the prime suspect for the disappearance of student teacher Deirdre Jacob, whose case was upgraded to murder in 2018.

While details of the 2009 drugs charges may have been news to some, they were not to his twin teenage daughters, Heather and Melissa Morrissey.

Heather has publicly criticised Mr Culleton, claiming he “upped and left” when the

twins were just 18 months old. They first found out who their father was when they were 13 and were told he lived in the US.

When Heather heard his interview on Liveline last week, she was shocked and upset.

“He went on the radio and

be

didn’t even mention us,” she said. “He talked about his wife and dogs.” She told the Irish Mail On Sunday they have never met him and had only fleeting contact.

The young woman, who last week celebrated her 19th birthday, said she would be

open to reconciling if her father was deported.

“If he could own up to what he has done, I would be willing to give someone a second chance, but as of now he is just digging a big hole for himself,” she said.

Special Report Page 14

the

Come on, it’s Bowie night for our Maria Bowie Day, Ryan’s Bar’s annual celebration of the Starman, returns to Friary Street on Saturday, February 28, from 9.30pm to raise funds for Maria Hogan. Featuring The Dreamers and house band The Diamond Dogs, with special guests Sylvia Knox, Jan Murphy, John Mayer, Aoife Meagher, John Cristina and Captain Anchor. All proceeds go to the Fund Maria Hogan’s AVC surgery.

Local girl Maria (pictured) is 17 and suffering from multiple serious vascular compressions that severely reduce blood flow to major organs, with constant pain and risks to her heart, kidneys and digestive system. Maria urgently needs specialist surgery not available in Ireland and must travel abroad. All funds will be used to help cover all costs for Maria.

Ryan’s will also host a table quiz to fund Maria on Wednesday, February 25, at 7.30pm — €20 for a table of four. Full story Page 13

Lourdes visit

St Patrick’s Parish Lourdes Committee are inviting you to put forward names of people for the annual sponsored Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes, from May 20 to 25. All relevant information should be sent to St Patrick’s Lourdes Committee, c/o the Parish Office, St Fiacre’s Church, Bohernatournish Road, Kilkenny.

He allegedly told a fellow inmate in Arbour Hill Prison that he abducted Ms Jacob and killed her when she tried to fight him off.

Gardaí had sent a file to the Director of Public Prosecutions calling for Murphy (61) to

charged with Ms Jacob’s murder, but

DPP declined because of a lack of evidence.

Before the ICE came: Seamus Culleton walking his dogs, Caesar and Cleopatra, on a US beach and, inset, his 19-yearold twin daughters Heather (right) and Melissa Morrissey PHOTOS: Facebook

Forget the pooch, if you want that smooch…

Dogs may well be man’s best friend, but they can get jealous of your romantic other half. Dogs have been blamed for ruining relationships by being too clingy and staring at their owners during intimate moments.

Research found many couples said their pets got in the way of their love lives by demanding attention whenever their owner showed affection to their partner, or causing arguments over who was more liked.

Adem Fehmi, a dog behaviour expert, said ensuring dogs’ physical and mental needs were met daily would help them be more “accepting of not being the centre of attention”.

The research, conducted by Rover, a pet-care company, found that more than a third (38%) of respondents felt they had been turned into a “third wheel” in their relationships by their pet.

Nearly half (43%) of 1,000 dog owners who were polled said their pet stared at them when they were trying to be romantic.

Meanwhile, six in 10 said their dog had a “clear preference for one person”. This included being noticeably possessive and demanding attention when it was given to their owner’s other half.

More than half (53%) even claimed their dog received more affection from their partner than they did, while 45pc said their dogs had interrupted moments of intimacy, with cuddling and kissing the most affected.

To combat this, 42% said they resorted to locking their dog out of the bedroom

during private moments, only to be left with a soundtrack of whining or scratching at the door.

Mr Fehmi said dogs needed to be helped to feel more confident on their own. He added: “For many owners, their dog really is their greatest love, soaking up attention, affection and time – and most

of us are more than happy with that trade-off.

“That said, helping dogs feel comfortable and confident when physically away from us is an important part of caring for them.

“This can help your dog to feel more relaxed as a whole and be more accepting when asked to settle rather than be

the centre of attention.

“Slowly and positively building up their confidence being away from you day to day is also key when helping dogs feel more secure overall – even when they’re not involved in everything.”

Emily Lobel, a dog behaviourist, said dogs were clingy when there was an absence of safety. “There’s more of an underlying issue than the dog wanting to be involved or jealousy,” she said.

“This means the dog doesn’t feel it needs to be between the couple. They don’t feel the need to invade space and can leave them to it. All of the neediness and resource guarding is based in fear.”

Carlow welcomes largest MrPRICE store yet

MrPRICE Carlow 3 opened to strong public interest, marking the retailer’s biggest store launch to date and attracting one of the largest crowds seen for an opening. Customers began queuing before the doors opened, with the queues at the tills later mirroring the line that had formed outside earlier in the day. The atmosphere throughout the store was positive, with shoppers welcoming the new opening and taking part in promotions run by the marketing team, including golden tickets and prize giveaways. Staff reported high levels of engagement from customers, making it a lively and successful opening for the Carlow community.

Stay-at-home parents valued at €50,000 a year

A survey carried out by iReach for Royal London Ireland has found that more than eight in 10 people (82%) in Ireland underestimate the monetary value of a stay-athome mother or father.

Analysts calculated that it would cost around €60,100 a year to “employ” someone to do the myriad jobs carried out by a stay-at-home parent.

The survey shows that fewer than one in five of the 1,000 adults polled nationwide believe the cost of carrying out the responsibilities of a s tay-at-home parent to be more than €50,000.

The average estimate given by people who responded to the survey was around €34,500.

Royal London Ireland’s Stay-at-Home Parent report

Extra prison for man who harassed Funchion

A man who previously received a four-month prison sentence for offences under the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act against his former partner, Sinn Féin MEP Kathleen Funchion, has had his sentence increased on appeal.

Seán Tyrrell, of Cypress Grove, Loughboy, Kilkenny, was previously given a fourmonth custodial sentence, with a separate four-month jail term suspended for two years, for offences under the legislation, also known as Coco’s Law.

The 39-year-old had previously pleaded guilty to the offences, which relate to August 2022, when Ms Funchion was a TD for the Carlow–Kilkenny constituency.

Judge Cormac Quinn last week increased the previous custodial sentence handed down to Tyrrell last April to one of five months.

The judge also increased the suspended sentence Tyrrell previously received from four months to five months.

This second sentence was again suspended in full for a period of two years, on condition the accused be of good behaviour and not communicate with or about Ms Funchion.

The judge said he was also taking two other matters on appeal from the District Court into consideration.

The judge said the parties first had a professional relationship when Ms Funchion was running for elected office and Tyrrell was a volunteer with the Sinn Féin party.

The accused then came to work in Ms Funchion’s constituency office after she was elected as a TD.

The judge said a personal relationship subsequently developed between the parties, which continued over a period

examines how adults in Ireland assess the monetary worth of parents who provide full-time care and household management at home. It aims to raise awareness of the invisible monetary value of the contribution provided by stayat-home parents.

Karen O’Flaherty, senior propositions executive of Royal London Ireland, said

stay-at-home parents deserved both support and cons ideration in financial planning.

She said her firm estimated the value given by the Irish public compared with research on the possible cost of hir ing someone to carry out the full range of parenting duties.

The role’s estimated annual equivalent has increased

by 5.2pc to €60,112. This is up from €57,140 in 2024. It represents an overall rise of about 48pc from €40,560 when the study was first conducted in 2015.

According to the latest Central Statistics Office (CSO) Vital Statistics Annual Report, 54,526 babies were born in 2023, with 16pc of mothers identifying their occupation as a homemaker.

Ms O’Flaherty said 10 years of the research has consistently shown that the responsibilities carried out by s tay-at-home parents form a vital part of how families function.

“Since the study began in 2015, the estimated annual value of a stay-at-home parent has risen by nearly 50%, yet public perception has not kept pace,” she said.

of years but later turned “fractious”.

Judge Quinn said Tyrrell had “trust issues” that were “unfounded”. Tyrrell had insisted that he have access to Ms Funchion’s passwords for her phone, email accounts and computers.

The court heard that when the relationship broke down, Tyrrell alleged he had contributed money towards a deposit for a house.

The judge said that on “various occasions”, Tyrrell had sought for Ms Funchion to take a lie detector test. She did not accede to this request and the couple separated in April 2022.

The court was told Ms Funchion made a complaint to the Gardaí about certain email and text message communications sent by the accused.

Judge Quinn said an email account of Tyrrell had also made contact with a journalist. An email was also sent from Tyrrell’s email address to Ms Funchion stating that he wanted a meeting with the leader of Sinn Féin, Mary Lou McDonald, in relation to the “issues” he had, and again that Ms Funchion would take a lie detector test.

The court was told that if Ms Funchion did not meet his demands, Tyrrell threatened to expose “embarrassing allegations” about her to journalists and other named parties.

The judge said all of these allegations were unfounded and untrue, and that the offending had caused Ms Funchion enormous distress in both her personal and professional life.

After the court was over, Ms Funchion said: “Today, I feel vindicated and heard. Justice has been delivered.

“I really hope this outcome gives other woman the confidence to seek justice.”

Go roar with the bauld Tigers …

There’s a new roar of excitement in Kilkenny’s sporting scene, with the K Bowl Tigers, the city’s only ten-pin bowling club, inviting new members to join the fun at their Open Night on Tuesday, March 3 at 8.00pm in K Bowl Kilkenny.

Formed in 2014 at K Bowl

Kilkenny out of a recreational workplace league, K Bowl Tigers has grown into a vibrant and inclusive club made up of players of all ages

and abilities — from complete beginners to novice and intermediate bowlers.

The club runs regular Singles and Doubles Leagues throughout the year, taking place every Tuesday night at 8.00pm. These sessions combine friendly competition with a relaxed, social atmosphere — perfect for anyone looking to try something new or return to the lanes after some time away.

“We’re always delighted

to welcome new faces,” said Paul Phelan, Chairperson of K Bowl Tigers. “Ten-pin bowling is a fun, accessible sport that anyone can enjoy.

You don’t need to be super fit or have any prior experience — just bring comfortable trainers or flat shoes, and K Bowl provides everything else.”

The club is actively seeking new members, particularly beginners or those simply curious about the sport.

Anyone interested in finding out more is warmly invited to drop into K Bowl Kilkenny any Tuesday night, or come along to the Open Night to meet the members of K Bowl Tigers and even try a few frames.

For more information: djmarkcollins@gmail.com

Anyone for bowls? Pictured above, members of K Bowl Tigers getting ready for Open Night.

Medics urge tobacco-free future to save lives

Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Ireland, claiming almost 100 lives each week, according to a position paper from the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland’s Clinical Advisory Group on Smoking and E-cigarettes. The paper is an urgent call to action from doctors on the front lines, who see the devastating effects of smoking daily. Smoking, the paper highlights, causes more harm than alcohol, drugs and accidents combined. There are

more than 4,500 deaths each year from tobacco use, accounting for almost one in six deaths and almost 1,000 hospitalisations every week. Ten people every day are diagnosed with cancer caused by smoking.

Doctors are calling for Government action to bring tobacco harm in Ireland to an end.

The paper outlines six data-informed calls for government action to deliver a Tobacco-Free Future by 2035.

1. A new national policy

that delivers a Tobacco-Free Future by 2035.

2. Commitment to a Tobacco-Free Generation.

3. Actions to reduce addictiveness, attractiveness, affordability and availability of tobacco products.

4. An end to tobacco industry interference and holding it accountable.

5. Actions to protect children and communities from tobacco and nicotine products.

6. And finally, access to the right support for everyone who wants to quit nicotine.

Professor Paul Kavanagh says Ireland is at a critical juncture in the fight against tobacco.

“Ireland led the way globally with the introduction of the national workplace smoking ban. But in recent years our progress has stalled, with almost one in five people still smoking.

“It’s time for the Government to lead again and to focus on the elimination of tobacco harm once and for all,” Prof. Kavanagh said.

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

The crack-cocaine of modern technology

Twenty years after it was first mooted, the iPhone has made Apple the world’s most valuable company (with a market capitalisation of $4 trillion – the first publicly traded company to reach the mark of $1 trillion eight years ago –but, in a way, that’s the least interesting thing about it. What’s more significant is that the late Steve Jobs’ iconic invention sparked off the smart-phone revolution that changed the way we humans function – for better and for worse.

Jobs’ seminal insight was that what was up to then just a one-dimensional mobile phone could be a powerful, networked hand-held device which could be used, not only to make voice calls but to access the internet – and with all that that entails – and do a myriad other things like check your bank balance, check your physical activity, monitor you heart and other bodily func-

tions, check out at the checkout, and, oh, take photos, those ubiquitous selfies. And the biggie? Keep you wired up, tuned in and turned out to the big wide world, effectively making it today the global village once cited by Marshall McLuhan, the Canadian philosopher who also coined the adage that the medium is the message.

The ongoing debate on the harm to children using smartphones, is part of the downside to this world of constant connectivity in which people are never offline and are increasingly addicted to their devices to the point of social isolation. Become those pedestrians who walk into obstacles because they are looking at screens rather than at where they’re going, or crash the car for similar reasons

The smart-phone is the most vivid example available of how technology can be – si-

multaneously – both good and bad, enabling and disabling, inspiring and disillusioning.

The technical capabilities of modern phones are formidable and the ingenuity of the apps that harness those capabilities are often mindblowing. But, at the same time, smart-phones are also surveillance devices made in hell – tracking one’s every move, click, swipe and shake. And some of the apps that run on them are tailor-made vehicles for, sadly as we have learned, stalking, bullying, and harassment.

One publican of my acquaintance, has the right idea. He is offering a free pint of Guinness to all customers who relinquish their phone in an effort to get back the old local pub atmosphere.

His was one of the first pubs in Ireland to embrace the Guinness-run initiative but then tweaked it to try and make customers realise

how much they rely on their phone.

“We started this one Friday evening, especially for the work crowd to have a drink and completely relax without continuously checking their emails or social media,” he told me.

“Keep you wired up, tuned in and turned out to the big wide world...

“I’ve worked in the bar trade for 30 years so I’ve been there before the trend of smartphones when everyone talked to each other, and even the bar tender, over a pint. Now I’ve six different chargers behind the counter to suit all makes pf smart-phones.”

He is not alone in his thinking. A recent survey of 4,150 16 to 75-year-olds across Ireland and Britain by Deloitte, which has 3,000 professionals in the Republic, found:

* More than half admit to using their phone while walking; 10% while crossing the road.

* A quarter of 16-to=19-yearolds respond to messages they receive in the middle of the night.

* And 55 to75-year-old ‘silver swipers’ are the fastest-growing adopters of smart-phones.

According to my psychologist friend from Magherafelt: “Some people have a significant issue with not being able

to disengage from their smart devices. While using such for everyday tasks, work, and socialising with friends and family is perfectly normal, not being able to put them down while engaged in a conversation with your significant other or a friend who’s sitting in front of you may denote an increasing problem.”

The night after he and I had dinner, I awoke to write this column. Happenstance (an oddly chance situation) had had its way with me. My iPhone was gone. Lost. Somewhere between the restaurant, the taxi and home. All attempts to locate it have proved futile. I am now 36 hours without it, and growing edgier by the minute, I feel cut-off, adrift. Naked. I swear you could not make this up.

NEWSFLASH: This just in ….iPhone found, thanks to an honest, eagle-eyed taxi man.

McGuinness welcomes major step forward for Kilkenny FET ‘College of the Future’

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has warmly welcomed the announcement by Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless approving the appointment of a design team for the new Further Education and Training (FET) campus in Kilkenny.

The announcement was made during Minister Lawless’s visit to Kilkenny on 18th February 2026 and marks a significant milestone in delivering the long-awaited single-site FET facility at Joinersfolly, south of Kilkenny City. The site, purchased just over a year ago, is expected to accommodate up to 5,000 students when complete.

Deputy McGuinness described the development as “a transformative project for Kilkenny and the wider South-East region.”

“For too long, FET courses have been delivered across 14 different locations in the city. This state-of-the-art ‘College of the Future’ will bring students, staff and

services together under one roof, creating a modern, purpose-built learning environment,” he said.

“This is a massive boost for Kilkenny,” Deputy McGuinness continued.

“It will not only provide high-quality education and apprenticeship opportunities, but also generate significant construction employment and long-term economic benefits for our city.”

The facility is expected to offer a full range of further education courses, including expanded apprenticeship programmes aligned with industry needs.

The announcement was also warmly welcomed by Cllr Deirdre Cullen, member of the Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB), who said the approval of the design team represents “real and tangible progress towards delivering a dedicated home for thousands of learners.”

Deputy McGuinness concluded: “Students and parents have been asking when this new campus would become a reality.

Today’s announcement sends a clear message — it is happening, and Kilkenny’s future in further education is bright.”

Family focus for St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny

Presented by Kilkenny County Council, St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny is gearing up for an action-packed weekend from 14 to 17 March, with 80 events taking place across the fourday celebration culminating in the Grand Parade on Bank Holiday Tuesday. Whilst Monday is business as usual for local commerce, schools across Kilkenny are taking the opportunity to

extend the holiday to a fourday weekend. The festival programme includes a myriad of family workshops and entertainment geared towards younger citizens and visitors during the extended break. Featured events include Learn to be a Knight at the Medieval Museum and The Big Dig, hosted by the Irish School of Archaeology in Canal Square. The creative,

hands-on workshop allows children to excavate the remains of a simulated Viking house and unearth treasures dating back 1,000 years. Aspiring knights can train in a fast-paced workshop about bravery, teamwork, and big medieval fun in the museum, including a thrilling minitournament.

Young historians can step back in time to discover the

secrets of the Medieval city on a humorous walking tour with Nevin Cody of Shenanigans Walks. Discover Kilkenny's witch trials and local legends with a touch of magic and plenty of Shenanigans! Déise Medieval recreates the crafts and skills of the early to midmedieval period in a free drop-in event in the Castle Yard.

In theatre, ‘Out of the Blue’,

a clown-based show, and 'Dr Jay's Amazing Science Show' will bring experiments to life with explosions, engineering marvels, and a good dose of chaos.

Festival Market at Kilkenny’s Parade Plaza

At the centre of the festivities is Kilkenny’s Parade Plaza and vibrant festival market, open daily until 8 pm throughout the celebration. It features nostalgic carnival rides, panoramic views of Kilkenny from the big wheel and a vintage carousel. Face painting, children’s theatre, and surprise performances entertain the little ones while adults can enjoy local food and craft stallholders. Watch out for the Stilt Walkers, Roving Pirates, Penny Farthing Papperazzi, Convicts on the Run, Shamrock the Leprechaun and more! Festival Chairperson, Cllr.

John Coonan, Mayor of Kilkenny City, commented, “Kilkenny is taking on a real family focus this year, from adventure and thrills to history, music and skills development. There’s lots of activity on the programme for the younger visitors this St Patrick’s Festival Weekend. We look forward to the bank holiday weekend in Kilkenny each year, when the city and festival market come alive to celebrate the national holiday. We encourage people to book early or come to Kilkenny for one of the many free events on the programme.”

St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny offers a mix of ticketed and free events across the festival weekend from 14 to 17 March. The full programme is available from www. stpatricksfestivalkilkenny. com.

Photo by Liam Murphy

We’re tops with AI on the job

Ireland is leader of the pack when it comes to the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in offices, with other countries significantly lagging behind, according to Indeed.

Seven in 10 workers in Ireland report using AI at work at least once a month, the highest rate among eight countries surveyed. That compares with 43% in the

United States, 41% in the United Kingdom and 18% in Japan.

The findings are based on a survey of 80,000 workers globally, showing a widening gap between those using AI and those who have yet to adopt the new technology.

Indeed says employer encouragement is a key factor in increasing the adoption of

Justice report shows 1,300 crimes committed in 2025 by people on bail

More than 1,300 criminal offences were committed across Kilkenny and Waterford last year by people already on bail for previous crimes, according to newly released data.

Figures revealed by Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan showed that 1,388 crimes were committed in the Waterford/ Kilkenny Garda region by individuals already on bail for previous offences.

Being on bail means a charged individual is allowed to remain in the community while awaiting trial, provided they comply with courtimposed conditions such as returning for hearings and avoiding further offences.

Nationally, 38,221 crimes were committed by those already on bail in 2025 – a statistic the Justice Minister has branded as “totally unacceptable”.

Of the more than 38,000 crimes, 10,104 were for theft offences, while a further 9,789 were public order offences.

Other offences committed by more than a thousand people across the country while on bail included drug offences (3,582), traffic violations (2,198), domestic-related incidents (1,514), criminal damage (1,440) and assault (1,232).

Notably, 84 homicide-related crimes were committed nationally by those already on bail, which includes offences such as manslaughter, murder, attempted murder, threats to kill or cause serious harm, and threats to persons.

Additionally, 56 sexual offences were committed nationally by individuals on bail

last year, along with 819 firearm-related crimes.

“It is totally unacceptable that offences are committed by people on bail,” said Minister O’Callaghan.

“That is a direct breach of the promise made when bail is granted by the court.

“While bail laws in Ireland are comprehensive, I am committed to ensuring they are fit for purpose while ensuring fundamental rights principles are adhered to.”

Minister O’Callaghan said that in 2025, an assessment of the bail system in Ireland was conducted, with its findings highlighting the need for actions to be taken to lessen the risks posed by individuals on bail.

“Last year, I appointed a Senior Counsel, Lorcan Staines, to undertake an assessment of the current operation of bail in Ireland, both legal and practical,” he said.

“Mr Staines’ report, An Assessment of the Efficacy of Bail Laws in Ireland, was published by my Department in November 2025. This examination of our bail laws and subsequent proposals underlines the need for additional actions to be taken to ensure the criminal justice system effectively mitigates against risks that may be associated with individuals on bail.

“A number of the recommendations are under active consideration or in progress by my Department. It is proposed that a further memorandum for the Government will be brought forward on any further implementation of the recommendations in due course.”

Bualadh bos, The Táin

The RTÉ Choice Music Prize Classic Irish Album, in association with IMRO & IRMA, has just been announced on RTÉ Gold by Will Leahy. The winning album is The Táin by Horslips. A concept album

AI. In Ireland, 37% of workers report high levels of encouragement from their employer to use AI – a stark difference to Japan, which is only at 12%.

Indeed is a global leader in job matching and hiring, operating in more than 60 countries.

Across all eight countries, the report highlights that workers whose employers actively encourage AI use are

significantly more likely to actually use AI at work, with the gap ranging from 28 percentage points in Ireland to 54 percentage points in Japan.

For those using the technology, the time savings appear to be significant. More than half of Irish AI users say they save one to two hours per day, while 44% cite saving between three and five hours daily – the

highest share in that category across the countries surveyed.

Only a small minority say they see no time savings, according to Indeed.

Globally, more than 80% of AI users say they save at least one hour a day. In Ireland, the study said workers were most likely to use that time to improve work–life balance (34%), learn new skills (26%)

or focus on creative work (25%).

However, gaps are emerging, and nearly six in 10 Irish AI users say they are not receiving enough training, compared with 49% of nonusers. This figure indicates that workers who actively use AI are more likely to recognise skill gaps and unmet training needs.

Our Ruairí a winner of sport scholarship

Ruairí McEvoy of Kilkenny City Harriers AC was among 185 DCU students receiving sport scholarships at Dublin City University recently.

Ruairí is studying for a BA in Economics, Politics and Law.

DCU’s Sport Scholarship programme is athlete-led, where a network of support services and expertise are tailored to the individual needs of the athlete. The programme grades support depending on the athlete’s achievement, potential and needs, with the objec-

tive of remaining flexible to support the diverse needs of the athlete.

The first DCU Sport Scholarships were awarded in 1996 in the form of GAA scholarships, and have since expanded to include a wide range of sports such as athletics, hockey, rugby and soccer.

DCU is fully accredited by the Sport Ireland Institute for its Student Athlete Support programme. This recognises best practice in the area of dual-career athletes and supports combining elite

sport and third-level education, making it extremely manageable for dual-career athletes.

James Galvin, Director of Sport at DCU, said:

“Physical activity is a cornerstone of the student journey at DCU, and we are delighted to reward student athletic performance through our scholarships.

DCU Sport champions a whole-person approach for dual-career athletes, reinforcing our dedication to empowering students to achieve their full poten-

tial in all aspects of their careers. Our scholarships programme has gone from strength to strength over the past 30 years, and we are excited about its future.

I hope the scholarship and the supports of the programme will give you the opportunity to give your all in pursuing your dreams in sport and education.”

Pictured above, Ruairí McEvoy, Kilkenny City Harriers AC, with DCU President Professor Dáire Keogh. PHOTO: Kyran O’Brien/ DCU Communications

centred on Irish mythology, The Táin was the band’s second full-length offering and was released on their own label in Ireland in 1973 as well as RCA in the UK and Atco in the US.

The European Commission has opened formal proceedings against online shopping outlet Shein under the Digital Services Act, over its addictive design, the lack of transparency of its recommender systems, as well as the sale of illegal products, including child sexual abuse material described as dolls with childlike faces.

More specifically, the inves-

tigation will focus on the following areas:

• The systems Shein has in place to limit the sale of illegal products in the European Union, including content which could constitute child sexual abuse material, such as child-like sex dolls.

• The risks linked to the addictive design of the service, including giving consumers points or rewards for engage-

ment, as well as the systems Shein has in place to mitigate such risks. Addictive features could have a negative impact on users’ wellbeing and consumer protection online.

• The transparency of the recommender systems that Shein uses to propose content and products to users. Under the DSA, Shein must disclose the main parameters used in its recommender systems,

and it must provide users with at least one easily accessible option that is not based on profiling for each recommender system.

Shein is growing in popularity with online shoppers because of the low cost of its products. The company established its EMEA HQ in Dublin in 2023. Shein serves shoppers in 160 countries.

As I See It Marianne Heron

Getting the balance right in the North

Over the Christmas break my partner and I went to visit Derry. I have been tantalised by the city’s dramatic location embraced by the Foyle as I bypassed it, but neither of us had actually been there before and found it a great destination. Does it matter, though, 25 years after the Good Friday Agreement, whether I call it Derry or Londonderry?

In some ways hardly, no one refers to the TV series Derry Girls as Londonderry Girls do they? (Incidentally the programme’s creator Lisa McGee has a new series on Netflix’s ‘How To Get To Heaven From Belfast’ which she says shares the same DNI. Locals don’t use L in front of a place known as Doire Cholmchille (St Columba’s oak wood) since 6th century either. But it did matter to the DUP’s Gregory Campbell who objected to President Catherine Con-

nolly’s failure to use the L version.

Walking the walls that withstood the infamous 105 day siege in 1689, passing buildings like the 1690 Free Presbyterian Church on Upper Magazine Street or the Guildhall with the exhibition of the plantation of Ulster, I couldn’t ignore the history of the city (1613-18), funded by the London Guilds and built on the ruins of the settlement sacked in 1608. It seems a place apart, with sandstone buildings and streetscapes with more in common with northern cities in Britain than with those in the South. In my head this was Londonderry.

Something chimed too, with some of what Campbell had to say, following his “You are in my country” remark to President Connolly on her visit to Derry as part of her three-day tour of the North. It wasn’t the country

part – after all we are all on the shared island of Ireland, allbeit with two different traditions – but rather about his subsequent remarks about balance. While Campbell had no problem with Connolly’s speech in Belfast he felt her approach in Derry was partisan.

In a programme that included visits to the Free Derry Museum and a meeting with the Derry Apprentice Boys, the President met families from the Bloody Sunday massacre. But, as Campbell put, in doing so this drew attention to “tragedies affecting one community and not the other”. He has a point. I grew up in the North and for me Campbell, while acknowledging his hope to build a brighter future for all of us, put his finger on a sore spot.

Whatever about the aspirations for a United Ireland, southerners can have a

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partisan view which fails to take into account the atrocities visited on the northern population in the name of republicanism or the enduring damage done to both communities there by the

“Does it matter whether I call it Derry or Londonderry?

Troubles. The effects are there not only in the deadly toll in 1,800 lives taken by the IRA and around 1,000 by loyalist paramilitaries and tragedies like the Enniskillen Remembrance Day massacre in which 11 (subsequently 12) died and 63 were injured for which no perpetrators have been convicted but also in long-lasting effects on the whole community partly due to the impact of decades of violence.

The North has four times the proportion on disability allowance compared with the South, the PSNI report receiving a call about domestic violence every 17 minutes. There are growing inequalities between North and South and much work to be done in progress towards unity which never get a mention in the rush from some quarters to hold a border poll.

Incomes, productivity, life

expectancy and educational attainment all lag behind in the North. Education is still divided 90% along sectarian lines, when a move to non-denominational schools would surely help bring the two communities, Catholic and Protestant, closer together. The failure to have a balanced approach can be alienating for those in the North who have doubts about future unity. It creates a feeling that they don’t count or count a great deal less and that they might be swallowed up, regardless, in unification. That said though, it’s great to see progress in things like cross-border initiatives, growing interest in the Irish language in the North and cross-border trade. Progress to end partition needs to be about recognising difference and the difference between aspiration and demand.

– are we all playing our part?

CLAIR WHITTY

Fundraising events at Ryan’s Bar, Kilkenny to support Maria Hogan

Ahead of Bowie Day on 28 February, Ryan’s Bar in Kilkenny is hosting a fundraising table quiz on Wednesday, 25 February at 7:30 pm. Teams of four can enter for €20, taking part in a lively evening of general knowledge questions, friendly competition, and community fun. It’s a wonderful opportunity for friends and family to enjoy a night out while supporting a meaningful cause.

Both the table quiz and Bowie Day aim to raise funds for 17-yearold Maria Hogan, who requires specialist surgery abroad for severe abdominal vascular compressions (AVC) that restrict blood flow to her vital organs. The funds raised will contribute directly toward her surgery, travel, and related care expenses.

Bowie Day promises live performances, music, and donations, bringing the community together in support of Maria. These events combine entertainment with generosity, giving the people of Kilkenny a chance to enjoy fun evenings while making a real difference in a young person’s life.

For more information or to enter a team for the quiz, contact Ryan’s Bar.

The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE) has made thousands of arrests since Donald Trump returned to the White House in January 2025, often in public places, leading to a number of clashes with protesters who oppose the agency’s operations.

What is ICE and when was it formed?

ICE is taking the lead in carrying out the Trump administration’s mass deportation initiative, which was a central promise of Trump’s election campaign.

The US president has significantly expanded ICE, its budget and its mission since returning to the White House. The agency was formed as part of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, a response to the terror attacks on September 11, 2001.

What powers do ICE agents have to arrest people?

ICE sees its mission as encompassing both public safety and national security. However, its powers are different from those of the average local police department in the US.

Its agents can stop, detain and arrest people they suspect of being in the US illegally. However, legal permission to enter a home or other private space requires a signed judicial warrant.

Agents can detain US citizens in limited circumstances, such as if a person interferes with an arrest, assaults an officer, or ICE suspects the person of being in the US illegally.

Despite this, according to news organisation ProPublica, there were more than 170 incidents during the first nine months of Trump’s presidency in which federal agents held US citizens against their will. These cases included Americans they had suspected of being undocumented immigrants.

Where does ICE operate?

The hard, cold facts about ICE

Typically, ICE operates inside the US, with some staffing abroad. ICE and other agencies have deployed hundreds of officers to cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago and Minneapolis, in partnership with other federal law enforcement agencies.

Trump, under pressure from within his own Republican Party, did a U-turn and, on February 4, Trump’s ‘Border Tsar’ Tom Homan said the administration would immediately withdraw 700 immigration officers from Minnesota. The officers in

question work for a number of agencies, including ICE and Border Patrol.

He said officers providing security to colleagues in the field were not being recalled, and that 2,000 agents would remain. However, he also said he aimed to bring overall numbers back to the level before the current Operation Metro Surge began in December.

What is Border Patrol?

Border Patrol is a uniformed branch of law enforcement that is part of the US Customs

and Border Protection (CBP) agency.

It typically operates near the US southern border and at other points of entry but, under Trump, now also works in the interior, helping ICE

agents to conduct immigration stops in major cities.

During the administration of Trump’s predecessor, Joe Biden, the numbers of immigrants arriving in US cities far from the border spiked.

What happens to people who are detained by ICE?

The scale of Trump-era deportations has been significant. The administration said it had deported 605,000 people between 20 January and 10 December 2025. It also said 1.9 million immigrants had “voluntarily self-deported”, following an aggressive public awareness campaign encouraging people to leave the country on their own to avoid arrest or detention.

An immigrant who encounters ICE can face a variety of outcomes.

Sometimes an individual is temporarily held, then released after questioning. In other circumstances, ICE will detain and transfer that person to a larger detention facility, of which there are several throughout the US. While many immigrants continue to fight for legal status while detained, if they are unsuccessful, they may ultimately be deported.

About 65,000 people were in ICE detention as of November 2025, according to data obtained by the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse’s immigration project, a compendium of government data from Syracuse University.

Where do Americans stand on ICE and deportations?

Americans have a complicated view of Trump’s immigration enforcement plans, polling suggests.

A little more than half believe some level of deportation is necessary, an October 2025 survey from the nonpartisan Pew Research Centre suggested. That is roughly the same number as Pew found the previous March. But the same poll suggests that Americans have concerns about Trump’s methods. It found that a majority of US adults (53%) believed the Trump administration was doing “too much” to deport undocumented immigrants. About 36% backed the approach.

Business chiefs fear being shut out of US amid visa denials

Irish executives with business interests in the US increasingly fear being denied visas and ending up frozen out of the country amid a growing number of rejections, lawyers have warned.

People travelling to the US for work often have to apply for visas, and the Trump administration’s stricter enforcement of immigration laws has led to more denials.

When a visa application is denied, it can often mean the individual is no longer eligible to enter the US through the far simpler 90-day visa waiver programme, or ESTA, adding risk to the process for business executives.

Louise Corrigan, founder and managing attorney at Louise Corrigan Law, a US and Irish immigration law practice,

told the Sunday Independent she had seen an increase in denials for both work and tourist visas. She referred to these as “214(b) denials”, meaning the consular office decided the person failed to show they qualify.

Corrigan said clients with US business interests were becoming wary of starting a visa

process, fearing rejection and risking their ability to enter America using an ESTA in the future. This was affecting people’s decisions about business travel, she said.

“Furthermore, aside from the experiences at the consular posts, we have also seen some clients with significant business interests in the US

and appropriate visa options open to them start to pursue a process and then change their mind because they don’t want to risk a denial,” she said.

Jonathan Grode, managing partner of the US-based immigration law firm Green and Spiegel LLC, has also noticed an increase in visa rejections.

He told the Sunday Independent the current system was strictly enforcing entry rules.

“Imagine it was a football match, and you have a referee that never calls any sort of tripping penalties, ever,” he said.

“And then, all of a sudden, you have a new referee that comes into the game, and this guy is really strict, and he is blowing the whistle and handing out yellow cards like they are water.

“That is what we have now.

We have a very strict referee.”

Grode said there were visa options open to Irish business executives, including E-1 (Treaty Trader) and E-2 (Treaty Investor), that were working well and included a “presumption of approvability”.

Being pragmatic, prepared and comfortable before visiting embassies for US visa interviews was key to securing approval, Grode said. He said people guarded their ability to enter the US through an ESTA “very carefully”, with many not prepared to lose it through a visa denial.

“This is the reality of my life now,” he said. “Fear. Pure fear. I spend so much time counselling – not lawyer counselling, emotionally counselling – people over their concerns

about entering the United States.

“That is what this administration wants. It is a masterclass in changing behaviour without changing law by effectuating the few to control the masses.”

A spokesman for the US Embassy in Dublin said a US visa was a “privilege, not a right”.

“Every visa adjudication is a national security decision,” he said.

“Individuals who apply for a visa or ESTA need to meet all eligibility requirements under US law.

“Every application is reviewed individually based on the facts of the case. Visiting the US is not an entitlement, and visa decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.”

Opinion

Families battle generational wealth gap Your Money & You John Ellis

Young people today grapple with soaring house prices and stagnant wages, while parents and grandparents are looking for ways to offer a leg-up without adding to their children’s/grandchildren’s tax burden. The annual small gift exemption is a straightforward tax benefit that, when combined with child savings plans from providers across the country, becomes an effective strategy for passing on wealth to the next generation. But does it deliver the seamless boost it appears to, or is it more hype than help? Let us look at it. The small gift exemption boils down to this. Under Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) rules, you can gift up to €3,000 per calendar year to any individual without paying gift or inheritance tax. It will not reduce your lifetime taxfree thresholds, €400,000 for parent-child relationships and €40,000 for grandparents and grandchildren. A married

couple can gift €6,000 tax-free per child annually. As financial guides often highlight, this lets you “support your loved ones while you’re still alive,” dodging the CAT hit that could otherwise eat up 33% of bigger transfers. Insurance providers offer child savings policies, often called small gift savings plans to make this exemption prac-

tical. For children under eighteen, the donor (perhaps a grandparent) opens the policy in their name, then assigns ownership to the child. Postassignment premiums count as gifts, maxing out the €3,000 limit. These plans invest in a selection of funds, from cautious to high-risk funds. Imagine as a parent saving your children’s allowance into

one of these plans, currently €140 a month from birth, and it could grow to around €49,000 by age 18, assuming a 4.1% annual return. That is illustrative, mind, as markets fluctuate up and down over time.

For those over 18, it is even easier. The young adult owns the policy, while you gift premiums straight in. No

assignment required, and if the donor dies, the plan can continue, as it is built for longevity.

This setup excels at taxefficient estate planning.

Consider a typical example. A widowed relative with seven young grandchildren consults an adviser about reducing a large potential inheritance tax bill. Using the small gift exemption, they put in place policies for each grandchild, gifting €3,000 yearly, €21,000 total annually, tax-free. This moves wealth from their estate without touching the grandkids’ €40,000 Group B threshold, even if the donor passes away early. There is no CAT on the gifts or encashment. Just standard 38% exit tax on gains at maturity.

In a housing market where under-thirty-fives hold just 10% of homes according to the Central Statistics Office figures, this could fund those €30,000 - €50,000 deposits, easing the squeeze while also

reducing future inheritance pots.

That said, pitfalls lurk. Assignments cannot be undone, so family fallouts leave donors able only to pause payments, not reclaim control of the funds. Projections like €49,000 assume steady returns, but investments can and unfortunately do fall, with currency shifts adding volatility. No backdating for missed years is allowed, and exemptions are calendar-bound and exit tax still applies on profits. In essence, these savings plans level the playing field for ordinary families battling generational wealth gaps. They are low-fuss and accessible via any Irish provider. Yet they are no shortcut. And as the experts say, “Start saving now!” That yearly €3,000 could be the means of turning tomorrow’s dreams into a reality.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The choice to step forward into growth or back into safety as Lake present The Weir

‘Tell me a story; tell me a story; tell me a story before I go to bed’

BY WILLIE EGAN

Photos by Ken McGuire

Methinks this line from an old nursery rhyme might be a good way to introduce an article about The Weir by Conor McPherson, the current offering from Kilkenny’s Lake Productions.

For if Napoleon once suggested that England was a ‘nation of shopkeepers’, it could equally be said that perhaps Ireland could be referred to as a ‘nation of storytellers’, wherein children are introduced to the world of stories from pretty much the time they’re born.

To render this hypothesis equally viable in the world of adult literature, some of Ireland’s most famous plays — from John B. Keane’s The Field, to Tom Murphy’s Conversations on a Homecoming, from Jimmy Murphy’s The Kings of the Kilburn High Road, to Seamus O’Rourke’s A Taste of Indigestion — all pretty much hinge on stories and storytelling. In fact, O’Rourke’s live performances of his piece include the use of a unique device when,

on cue, he strategically shifts his position on stage at key moments and repeats, ‘I’ll tell ye a story.’

Likewise, the noted recitation The Papisher & The Prod by John McKearney captures a most powerful, sad, reflective story from a troubled Northern Ireland.

Irish songwriters also seem to have given heed to the power of storytelling: from Kickham’s Slievenamon, to Jimmy McCarthy’s The Contender, to Mick Hanly’s Patrick’s Hill (‘this story has no home so I will tell it here’), the fascination with stories and the craft of carving out a story in song is again very much in evidence.

Many are called but few are chosen to the top table of writing deserving of the category of ‘masterpiece’.

The Weir has its feet firmly planted underneath that table since its first production over thirty years ago, carrying within it the added attraction of including stories within a story.

The play opens with a series of seemingly random conversations of little or no apparent significance or direction as the first of the play’s three characters (Jack, Brendan and Jim) are introduced to the audience. But that’s McPherson’s style — the build-up.

After the direction of the wind and their respective states of busyness have been established,

it emerges that all three are single, self-employed men, and these early exchanges include themes of sadness, aloneness, regret and a self-imposed sense of inevitable hopelessness as they reflect on opportunities lost — a theme which is repeated with even more emphasis later in the play. While such themes are common to many Irish plays, the choice of language here pulls at the heartstrings in a particular way, as it reminds us of a statement from Abraham Maslow: ‘At any given moment we have a choice, to either step forward into

growth, or step back into safety’, which in turn brings to mind a line from a lesser-known Shay Healy song, Follow Your Star, which goes: ‘I’m standing on the edge of the universe, getting ready to jump into space. But I’m finding it really hard to let go, for the earth is such a solid place.’

Then the play takes a turn.

The news that a friend of theirs (Finbar) is about to join their company seems to bother two of the three. Finbar was, at one stage, just one of them — drank with them and lived like them. McPherson doesn’t say whether or not Finbar had read about Maslow, but the script discloses that he had decided some years earlier to take the gamble they had not, and moved to a nearby town, where he carved out a career as an auctioneer and found himself a wife.

To rub salt into their wounds, the news is that he will be accompanied by a young, single, attractive Dublin lady (Valerie) who has just rented an old house from him. Apparently, like any good businessman would, he is showing her around the local area, mar dhea (‘showing her off more like!’), and has decided to include Brendan’s pub on his itinerary.

This news noticeably changes the amiable conversation of the three to one of unease, edge, suspicion

and envy, in which the safety of the higher moral ground of righteous indignation is sought: ‘What is he doing, and he married! How far would he get with her anyway, and the head on him.’ Here McPherson perhaps touches on the less attractive side of Irish storytelling — the shadow side of human traits — i.e. the language of put-down, character assassination through innuendo, speculation and gossip.

And as the accumulated alcohol releases the shackles of safety and damage-limitation, the script structure changes somewhat, from crisp dialogue to a series of monologues, as old local ghost stories are being recalled — perhaps or perhaps not — with the intention of putting Valerie off the area and what they believe to be Finbar’s dubious interest in her. But Valerie has her own story to tell.

The Weir by Conor McPherson runs at The Concert Hall in Thomastown from March 12.

Cast includes: Gerry Cody, Niall Morrissey, Derek Dooley, Joe Murray and Ann Murray. Director is Darren Donohue.

Willie Egan

(Accredited Adolescent Counsellor in Kilkenny for the past 20 years)

Ann Murray

Niall Morrissey

Gerry Cody

Joe Murray

Derek Dooley

Romantic success at Connolly’s RED MILLS Day

Doran presided over the RED MILLS Store Style Awards, which celebrated the very best of winter racing fashion. Lexi Shepert was crowned Best-Dressed Lady, closely followed by runner-up Tina Hemlock, while Stephen Kennedy claimed the top prize in the men's category. To mark the holiday, a new Best-Dressed Couple category was won by Dawn and Richard, who walked away with a luxury stay at the Pembroke Kilkenny. The atmosphere remained electric well into the evening, with vibrant fashion shows, a curated pop-up shop, and high-energy live music from the

and

band After Dark in the party marquee. This seamless combination of elite National Hunt sport

a sophisticated social scene ensured that RED MILLS Day remains the most anticipated highlight in the Gowran Park racing schedule.

Best-Dressed Lady Winner Lexi Sherpert (Left) Style Awards Judge James

RED MILLS Models Katie Vickers (Left) Harry Fitzpatrick & Orla Byrne showcasing outfits from the RED MILLS Store, Cillin Hill,Kilkenny

Style Awards Judge James Kavanagh and Judge and Presenter Marietta Doran

Dressed Winners First Place Lexi Sherpert (Left) & Second Place Tina Hemlock (right)

Opinion

I knew it. I knew it. I knew it. I knew it all along. We are not alone. The aliens are out there. Don’t take my word for it – take the word of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, who, when asked are aliens real, in a ‘No Lie’ podcast with one Brian Tyler Cohen last weekend, said: “They’re real but I haven’t seen them and they’re not being kept at Area 51 (the highly classified Air Force base in the Nevada desert) There’s no underground facility unless there’s this enormous conspiracy and they hid it from the President of the United States” So now you know – aliens are real. I was delighted to get Obama’s imprimatur on the subject because I believe in aliens. Considering the size of the Universe – more stars than all the grains of sand on all the beaches on Earth – there’s just got be some other life form other than us. I mean there simply has to be a more intelligent, more advanced, or at least less cruel and callous (think Gaza), life form than human beings in this Universe of ours.

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Guess what? We are not alone...

If humans are the best God could come up – well, as I’ve said before, I am mightily unimpressed with God. Anyway, all this alien talk reminded me of a programme I watched on TV many moons ago – the Ricki Lake Talk Show which I re-

corded because of my interest in extra-terrestrial life. Ricki had a couple of children and some adults as her guests – all with an alien story of some kind or other to tell. One of the children claimed to have been abducted by aliens, while another

was afraid to go outside her house for fear of being abducted. A very articulate blonde woman claimed to BE an actual alien while a 23-year-old student said she had given birth to an alien. Well her mother, a guest on the show also, was making

this claim.

Wow! All that alien stuff was proving to be a lot more alien than I had anticipated – a lot more like weird really. As for the blonde, I reckoned if aliens looked even remotely like this lady – I thought we humans (in particular the male of the species) would greet them with open arms when they arrive in their flying saucers or whatever because this alien looked rather lovely. She was one hell of an advertisement for inter-galactic relationships! Not for one minute did I think that this woman was an actual alien. When asked how she knew she was an alien she said it was because of memories she had of belonging to another civilisation, another race, not human. Hey, I know people who talk like that. But I don’t call them aliens. I call them something else entirely but I’m too polite and too politically correct to say what that is.

I have to say – I wouldn’t mind being abducted by aliens (and they are real, remember) for a few reasons:

one, I’d fancy a spin around the galaxy in a flying saucer – something different for sure and definitely something to pontificate about in the pub afterwards. Also I’d like to check out if their seating arrangement is better than Ryanair’s and if their in-flight meals (that’s if they serve food, whatever it might consist of) are any better. As it happened my two sons were in the room when I was watching the show. I turned to them and jokingly asked: “Guys, by any chance are any of you aliens?” “Da,” replied my 13-year-old, “you know that I am from Saturn.” Where, I wondered, did we get him?

PS: Hours after Obama caused a media frenzy by saying aliens are real the former US President posted a statement clarifying that he had not seen evidence of them and that he was merely trying to stick with the spirit of the interviewer’s quick-fire round of questioning. Goddamn politicians – I sometimes wonder if they’re for real!

Sewing seeds creative programme

As part of Kilkenny Arts Office’s community arts and climate action 2025 programme we continue to deliver projects as part of our Waste Not Want Not programme. This programme is a natural progression and development of our 2023 and 2024 programme, where we worked with individuals and groups to upcycle and re-purpose waste fabrics, saving it from landfill and giving new life. The 2024 programme included skills-based workshops, such as alterations and repair, repurposing denim, basic sewing skills, sashiko and embroidery. We also hosted a very successful Repair day which coincided with International Repair dayThe Arts Office has a longstanding history of running environmentally friendly / climate actionbased

community programmes, notably Three Bags Full, Born to Knit and Making Space, which ran from 2011 – 2013. All of these projects sourced specific waste streams and designed and delivered community projects, ensuring that these waste materials remained in the system whilst at the same time creating new communities, and building local building confidence and capacity.

Sewing Seeds is a four season creative programme exploring circular design, textile waste streams, and community education and connection through making, reflection, and environmental action. Spring, Summer, and Autumn will be led by a different artist whose practice aligns with a phase of the fashion cycle: production, consumption and care, and waste and disposal. Participants may join one, two, or all four blocks. Winter will see the participants self-direct, all the while supported by the Arts Office. The programme combines hands on making, seasonal awareness, and real world environmental engagement. Each block includes a Generate Day, a series of artist led

workshops, and an Activate Day with a local eco group. Winter is held as a quieter period for reflection and future thinking where participants will continue to explore techniques learned in the previous three seasons. These sessions will be book-ended by an artist who will support the conversations and explorations of the previous blocks, focussing on topics such as ‘Wintering’ and Ecopractices. The programme aligns with the Earth charter Pillars. Booking Details: Participants may join one, two, or all four blocks. Please specify which blocks you wish to book on to by emailing Ann Carroll: anncarroll@kilkennycoco.ie. Subsidies cost as follows:1 season €50 /2 seasons €90. 3 seasons €120 / 4 seasons €150. Accessibility: The programme has been streamlined to four seasonal blocks. Participants may join any single block or complete all four for a deeper, interconnected learning experience.

For full details follow: https://kilkennyartsoffice. ie/sewing-seeds-aseasonal-making-project/

Health & Beauty

Free 24/7 youth mental health access

WELLBEING

Young people in County Kilkenny aged 16 to 30 can now get free, anonymous digital mental health support through Togetherall, thanks to a new nationwide rollout announced this week.

Launched in partnership with the HSE by Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler, the clinically moderated online platform provides round-theclock peer-to-peer support in a safe and inclusive environment. The service is designed to complement existing mental health supports and make early intervention more acces-

HEALTH

Newly published national audit data on heart-attack care shows a striking contrast between the high clinical performance inside University Hospital Waterford (UHW) and the significant delays patients face reaching it, particularly those coming from County Kilkenny, which depends on Waterford for emergency cardiac intervention.

These issues were outlined in the Irish Heart Attack Audit National Report 2024 by the National Office of Clinical Audit (NOCA), which looked at data from 1,615 heart attack patients.

UHW is the main centre for primary PCI in the South East, serving Waterford, Wexford, South Tipperary and Kilkenny. When someone in Kilkenny has a major heart attack (STEMI), they should be taken to Waterford for urgent angioplasty.

Once patients arrive, the care is excellent. The audit found that 89 percent of eligible patients received

sible to young people across the country.

While Togetherall is not a crisis service, it actively manages situations where users may be at imminent or elevated mental health risk.

Members can also access a range of text-based, selfdirected courses focused on building coping skills and confidence. Courses can be completed individually or in groups, allowing members to progress together and support one another.

Togetherall includes links to local mental health services, clinically validated self-assessments, a private journaling tool

and a wide range of mental health articles and resources.

At the launch, Minister Butler said the first phase will help over 2,000 young people this year, creating “an inclusive digital community that complements existing mental health services.” She also said that giving more people access to support can help young people “thrive” and find community when they need it most.

This national launch follows Togetherall’s success in Ireland’s higher education sector, where it has been used in 13 colleges since 2022 with support from the HSE. Irish student data shows strong use:

87 per cent said the platform helped their mental health, and 83 per cent were not using on-campus services. Also, 65 per cent of activity happens outside regular service hours, showing a need for support at all times.

Togetherall CEO Matthew McEvoy said the expansion is meant to offer “a safe, low-barrier space” for young people, especially those who might not feel comfortable seeking traditional face-to-face help.

The platform is always available, free, and completely anonymous. Young people in Ireland aged 16 to 30 can sign up at togetherall.com/ireland.

primary PCI, which is much higher than the national average. Safety and mortality rates were as expected, and 98 per cent of patients were referred to cardiac rehabilitation - one of the best rates in Ireland. The cardiology team provides strong, reliable care during regular hours. The challenge is getting patients to Waterford in time. Only 42 per cent of STEMI cases arrived directly by ambulance, considerably below the national rate. For Kilkenny

patients, this often means an initial assessment at St. Luke’s Hospital followed by transfer, adding critical minutes to the pathway. The audit reveals that in 2024, not a single transferred patient reached UHW within the national timeframe for timely PCI, the lowest performance nationally. This reflects logistical constraints, long travel distances and limited ambulance availability rather than any clinical deficit at UHW.

Limited PCI hours also

‘Sweat-proof’ skincare

affected care. Until early 2025, UHW could only offer PCI from 8am to 5pm on weekdays, so many Kilkenny patients needing help outside these hours had to go to Cork or Dublin instead.

Now that the service runs from 8am to 8pm every day, performance should get better. Still, the data shows that while UHW provides excellent care, the main challenge is making sure patients from Kilkenny and the South East can get there quickly enough.

Regular exercise boosts circulation and can give skin a healthy glow - but sweat, heat and friction can also trigger breakouts and irritation if you’re not careful.

Before training, keep skin clean and product-light. Heavy makeup or thick creams can mix with sweat and clog pores. If you’re exercising outdoors, apply a lightweight, non-comedogenic SPF - UV exposure doesn’t stop when you start moving.

During workouts, avoid wiping your face with used towels or your hands. Pat sweat away gently with a clean towel to reduce bacteria transfer and friction.

Post-workout is when your routine really matters. The Irish Skin Foundation recommends prompt, gentle cleansing after workouts to maintain healthy skin. Cleanse as soon as possible to remove sweat, oil and grime, then follow with a hydrating serum and a barrier-supporting moisturiser.

Finally, wash gym clothing and headbands regularly as trapped bacteria can undo all your skincare efforts.

10-minute post-workout boost SKINCARE

EXERCISE

What you do after your workout matters just as much as the session itself. A smart recovery routine can reduce soreness, improve performance and lower injury risk - and it doesn’t have to take long.

Start with two to three minutes of gentle movement to gradually bring your heart rate down. Skipping this step can leave you feeling light-headed and stiff later. Next, focus on mobility. Target the muscles you’ve just trained with controlled stretches or dynamic mobility work rather than long passive holds.

Active cooldowns and mobility exercises are crucial components of training, strongly recommended by Irish sporting bodies like Sport Ireland Coaching and Athletics Ireland to reduce the risk of injury after training.

Rehydrate properly - not just water but electrolytes if you’ve trained hard or sweated heavily. Pair this with a protein-rich snack within an hour to support muscle repair and growth. Finally, prioritise sleep - good-quality rest remains one of the most powerful recovery tools available.

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Drazen Zigic

Choices Shape Your Future

By

Judith Ashton

The power and magic of water

“Water, water, everywhere and ne’er a drop to drink….” Coleridge’s poem, “The Ancient Mariner”, was not talking about the recent floods and relentless rain but it might as well have been! This winter has seen the heaviest downpours for decades and like us all, I’m longing for change. Despite our complaints, about the amount of water rained down upon us this last while, it is undoubtedly the most amazing substance known to Humanity. Water is unique to Planet Earth and makes up about 71% of its surface, 97% of the 71% is salt water and only 3% is fresh water. The scarcity of fresh water as a natural resource is becoming so pressing that it may even lead to water-wars in the future, and yet we still use it to flush our toilets!

Water can take many forms…ice, snow, rain,

sleet, steam…it can flow and can be boiled and it can freeze and it remains water and many regard it as a living entity that can be poisoned or healthy, that can live or die and that even responds to and has emotions.

Environmentalists, like local Cathy Fitzgerald, now talk about “Ecocide”,( death of the natural world) and discuss the rights of water, the rights of animals and the rights of nature since mankind has polluted and damaged so much. Not so long ago “Human rights” did not exist, let alone civil rights, women’s rights, children’s rights or animal rights. They are relatively modern concepts and now taken for granted. Look a few years into the future and the rights of nature and our waterways and oceans hopefully will be unequivocal.

Many years ago, my friend, Annie Dack invited Mr. Masaru Emoto to Ireland to talk about his research with water. Over 500 people turned up at The Lyrath Hotel to listen to his incredible findings. His lectures and photographs were awe inspiring. Apart from the fact that water is essential for life on Earth, Mr. Emoto suggested that it has incredible properties way beyond its biological function. Water according to him, has other surprising properties, not least the ability to retain information from its environment which is referred to as “the memory of water”. Mr. Emoto believes water can record thoughts and emotions because its molecular structure changes in response to human words, music, and intentions. Some agree; others do not. I do and why

not? We live in a magical and mysterious universe and science does NOT have all the answers. Many people have lost their sense of wonder for the natural world; we should regain our childlike perspective, seeing every insect and leaf as a miracle instead of something to dissect.

Mr. Emoto discovered a process of exposing water samples to different words and emotions and then froze them before photographing the crystals with a camera microscope. The crystals that were exposed to higher vibrational words like: love, peace, joy, happiness, blessings, prayer, gratitude etc formed truly beautiful crystals and the water that was exposed to negative words like: war, hate, conflict, fear, torture, etc created chaotic and deformed crystals.

Similarly, water exposed to soothing music created very different crystals from the water exposed to heavy metal rock.

Water makes up about 85% of our human bodies and if Mr. Emoto’s hypotheses are correct there’s a lot to learn that could be beneficial for human health and wellbeing. In the past, many complementary therapies such as acupuncture, herbalism, and yoga were dismissed by the medical profession. Now they are adopting such methods and even recommending them to certain patients!

Could it be possible that with intention we could positively affect the water in our bodies with affirmations, visualizations and prayers? In the 1970s Dr. Carl Simonton’s cancer patients used visualizations, (with interesting results) to shrink tumours.

Water is a miracle. Our planet is the only one with water and water gives life. Many people have lost their sense of thirst and mistake thirst for illness. They are unknowingly dehydrated. A headache can often improve by drinking a big glass of water! Manufactured drinks do not count. Water is crucial for healthy function, deprived of it, the body suffers and organs like kidneys are stressed. An adequate supply of fresh, life-giving water, enables your body’s systems to function in a way that keeps you healthy. I recommend F. Batmanghelidj’s book, “Your Body’s Many Cries For Water. You’re Not Sick. You’re Thirsty.” Be kind to your body, keep it hydrated and love the water you drink!

www.judithashton.com

Homes & Gardens

Designing a quiet home

INTERIORS

Open-plan living has been popular for years, but now many homeowners are starting to think about how their homes sound as well as how they look.

Hard floors, big windows and minimal furniture can cause echoes and let noise travel between rooms. Adding soft materials can make a big difference in comfort. Rugs, fabric blinds, upholstered furniture and wall panels help absorb sound and make rooms feel more peaceful.

Zoning is becoming popular again. Pocket doors, sliding screens or even shelves in the right places can keep rooms feeling open but help block noise. This is especially helpful for remote work and busy families.

People often forget about ceilings, but adding acoustic panels or timber slats can improve sound and add texture to a room.

As our homes are used for more things than ever, designing for quiet is just as important as designing for light. A good interior should feel peaceful, not just look good in photos.

Daffodil myths and meanings

As daffodils brighten gardens and hedgerows across Kilkenny, they carry more than just colour; they bring centuries of folklore and symbolism with them.

In Irish tradition, spotting your first daffodil of the year was said to bring good fortune. Better still, if you saw a cluster rather than a single bloom, abundance promised prosperity for the months ahead. For that reason, gifting one lone daffodil was once considered unlucky; a bunch symbolised joy and shared happiness. Because they flower close to Imbolc, daffodils are loosely linked with the season of renewal associated with St Brigid, marking the return of light after winter.

Though they feel native to our landscape, most garden varieties were introduced and later naturalised.

Today, the daffodil holds powerful modern meaning too, closely associated with fundraising efforts by the Irish Cancer Society, making it not just a sign of spring, but of hope.

Vacant properties key to social housing

HOUSING

The Government has announced a major expansion of the Buy and Renew Scheme, which could soon bring new life to more vacant and derelict buildings in Kilkenny and other areas.

Launched in 2016, the scheme lets local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs) buy long-term vacant or derelict properties, renovate them to modern standards and use them as social housing.

So far, nearly 1,000 disused homes have been restored nationwide.

With the new changes from the Department of Housing, building contractors can now buy and refurbish suitable vacant and derelict properties for the first time. They must agree in advance to sell the finished homes to a local authority or AHB, making sure the homes go directly from renovation to new residents.

This change aims to speed up the process, create more jobs

for local builders and tradespeople and help tackle some of the hardest-to-renovate properties, especially those that private grants are unlikely to cover.

The eligibility rules have been made stricter. Now, properties must be both vacant and derelict, so the scheme focuses on buildings that need the most help and addresses problems in town centres.

Minister for Housing James Browne said that turning empty buildings into homes is

one of the best ways to boost housing supply and help renew communities.

In towns and cities like Kilkenny, where heritage buildings and older properties are part of the local character, the expansion could help reduce dereliction, improve streets, and provide much-needed homes.

The upcoming Derelict Property Tax, set for 2027, is also expected to encourage more properties to join renewal schemes.

Insulate and save on energy bills

HOME SMART

With energy costs on the rise and winter temperatures still biting, proper home insulation has never been more important for comfort, energy savings and reducing your carbon footprint. Insulation slows heat loss, keeps homes warmer in winter, cooler in summer and can cut energy bills by hundreds of euros annually.

Attic and roof insulation is often the most effective starting point, as up to a third of household heat can escape through an uninsulated roof. Options range from traditional mineral

wool to more modern solutions like spray foam or eco-friendly sheep’s wool.

Wall insulation is next. Solid walls can be insulated internally or externally, while cavity walls can be filled with insulating material. Both approaches reduce heat loss and damprelated issues, helping homes feel warmer and reducing condensation.

Floor and underfloor insulation can prevent cold floors and reduce energy use, especially in older homes with suspended timber floors. Windows and doors also play a part: double or triple glazing and draught-

proofing prevent heat from escaping and improve overall efficiency.

You can also take advantage of grants and incentives for insulation upgrades through the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), making it more affordable to invest in longterm energy

savings. By upgrading insulation, you can not only create a warmer, more comfortable living environment but also increase the value and sustainability of your property.

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Home in Limerick restored under the Buy and Renew Scheme. File picture

Annie Keating: Poet of the People

Part one

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Every town and village has its Poet of the People. Annie Keating (nee Kelly) of Bridge Street was Callan’s resident poet. She eulogized every aspect of the town’s life, culture, and heritage in her verses that appeared in the Kilkenny People…or that in some cases were written simply to boost the morale of exiles labouring in far-off lands.

The verses helped to keep alive their memories of a town they had left, amid tears and sorrow, to make a living overseas. Annie’s grandmother was Margaret Canavan, who was forever in demand throughout her career as Callan’s midwife.

A week seldom passed without the gift of a new life transforming the community. No tally was kept on the number of babies she delivered to her native townit was provisionally estimated to be around three hundred.

Though every birth was a cause for joy and celebration, the local wits occasionally added a touch of black humour to allow for the depressed economic climate of the 1950s.

One man who had been forced to emigrate to

London remarked, upon being reminded of the famed midwife: “That lady gave me REASON to cry the day she brought me into the world!”

Annie’s mother Babs Canavan was married to Mick Kelly, who was known in Callan affectionately as “Yany”. Annie and her sister Madge attended the Convent of Mercy School, though Annie completed her schooling in Baggot Street, Dublin. Later she became a teacher, educating pupils at Newtown School and for a while at the Convent of Mercy in Callan.

Sisters Benedict and Celestine at the Convent coached her in the handling of the seventy or so boys at the school. “We don’t want any numbskulls or half wits going out that door when we’ve taught them everything!” Sr. Benedict often joked to Annie. In Annie’s recollection, the good sister went on to work at the “new hospital” in Kilkenny.

Her happiest memory of the Convent was of Sister Mary Agatha, who “lived for music.” The nun’s favourite song-she taught it to all pu-

pils who passed through her classes-was The Little Drummer Boy. She had them all waving green, white and gold flags as they sang or whistled it with her.

Of the pupils there, four made a particular impression on Annie. Monica Molloy and a Ms. Kerwick became Sisters of Mercy at a Convent in Sydney, Australia. Bridie Somers of Chapel Lane later married in America. And Annie Sullivan was a sister of Frank who was a chemist in Boston. Frank and Annie Sullivan’s uncle was Jackie

Power of Haggardsgreen. Annie Kelly married Eddie Keating, who had been serving his time at Jim Canavan’s bakery. Eddie had a lifelong passion for boxing and football. When at school at the CBS, his two great idols were John L. Sullivan, the boxer, and Dara Donovan, the footballer.

He could talk, or spin an elaborate yarn, about every punch given by John L, and every goal that Dar had scored. He had played football himself in Croke’s little field, tussling with Wattie

O’ Brien and Bill Troy in the carefree days of his youth.

Madge Kelly and her famous Budgie Annie’s younger sister, Madge, opened a shop in Bridge Street that was the heart and soul of that section of town: It acted as a magnet for children passing to and from the School. They saved pennies to buy bulls-eyes and sweets. You could exchange halfpenny for a toffee or a few squares of chocolate. I refer to Madge’s prowess as an angler elsewhere in this book. She was also the proud owner of a bird in the late fifties and early sixties whose fame spread beyond the confines of Callan to other parts of the globe.

Wherever a Callan heart ticked, be it in the middle of the town, on its outskirts, or in far-flung places as far apart as Kilburn, Sydney, Boston or New York, “Budgie Kelly” was known and loved, not merely for his ability to talk, but even more so for his bilingual skills.

In addition to speaking fluent English, he had an amazing grasp of his native language. Gael-goers nationwide marveled at the standard of Irish he exhibited when Madge granted them an audience with the budgie. One of Budgie’s favourite catch phrases was “Elementary, My Dear Watson.”

Bridge Street with house on left where Annie Keating lived in her latter years

Annie Keating

Green Street in Annies time

Introducing care with your senior

Written by Michael Doyle

Generally, people tend to be independent as much and for as long as they can. However, time ultimately catches up with everyone and as people reach their twilight years, this can lead to a decline or reduction in health and autonomy for seniors, which can result in the thought, assessment, and discussion of senior care options from seniors or their families.

For some seniors, in particular, those who’ve led active, independent lives, this transition to senior care can be a difficult process to navigate or a sensitive subject to discuss. The same can be said for the senior’s loved ones, who care for the senior’s health and well-

being. This transition can be an emotional moment for those involved as it may be the end of one chapter in the senior’s life. However, it’s important to note that it’s also the beginning of another chapter and the senior can still age positively within themselves and their family while receiving senior care. Whether you haven’t yet noticed changes in a senior’s health, or have but don’t know how to discuss care options with them, in this article, we look at how the senior’s loved ones can prepare themselves and the senior for the transition, from looking at the warning signs signalling care is needed, to advice on how to discuss care options with your senior

loved one.

Spotting the Signs: Care is likely needed for seniors when their daily routines, safety, or health begin to decline. Signs of this include noticeable changes in hygiene, reduced mobility, unexplained weight loss, neglected household management, medication mismanagement, increased confusion or forgetfulness, and social withdrawal. While some signs can be obvious, spotting them can be difficult. Loved ones might be biased in justifying odd behaviour or increased forgetfulness as just "getting old", or changes might happen so slowly, loved ones adjust to a "new normal" without realizing the extent of the decline.

This can be further challenging for loved ones if the senior tries to conceal these changes by putting on a brave face, appearing more competent when family is present than they actually are. They may do this for fear of ageing or losing their independence and therefore reluctant to confess the reality to their loved ones, hence why loved ones may or may not notice significant or subtle changes in the senior’s health which could indicate a change of care is needed.

Discussing care options: Discussing care options with seniors is a delicate process that requires empathy and patience to ensure their independence, safety, and dignity are maintained. When

discussing with the senior, having the right mindset and approach are key to keeping your senior onside. Begin by choosing a quiet, comfortable, and private setting, and avoid discussing during stressful moments or when they are tired, then frame the conversation as a way to enhance their quality of life rather than a loss of control, and if the senior is resistant, revisit the topic in gradual doses without forcing a decision in one sitting. If they have any objections, you can reassure the senior that receiving care makes the senior’s life easier, that it helps them to focus on what they enjoy, and that they are not a burden, but rather, you want them to be safe and comfortable. If the senior

is still unsure, you could suggest a trial period where the senior can build a sense of trust and familiarity to the change without committing straightaway. Introducing the topic of care options with your senior loved one can be a struggle at first. It might not be easy to confront the reality of the situation, but with the right mentality, your loved ones will understand where you are coming from, that you only want the best for them in their senior years, and will come to appreciate the support. Hopefully, the discussions, transition and process of the senior into senior care is as smooth as possible for everyone involved, and that the senior enjoys their new form of care.

Kilkenny Older People’s Council

Kilkenny Age Friendly Older People’s Council was established as part of the Kilkenny Age Friendly County Initiative in line with the World Health Organisation Age Friendly guidelines on how cities and communities can better adapt their structures and services to the needs of older people. The purpose of the Older People’s Council is to represent the views and experiences of older people and to bring that voice to the Kilkenny

Age Friendly Alliance, a partnership of all statutory and non statutory agencies involved in planning and delivering services for older people. To ensure we accurately reflect the needs of older people across the county, it is essential that our Older People’s Council Executive includes members from throughout Kilkenny City and County. This helps us hear and represent the voices of older people from every community. If you become a member

of Kilkenny Older People’s Council you will receive regular email correspondance in relation to newsletters, upcoming events and information features.

To become a member, you can obtain a membership form by writing to Age Friendly Kilkenny, Kilkenny County Council, Patricks Court, Patrick Street, Kilkenny, R95N28F, by email to agefriendlykilkenny@ kilkennycoco.ie or by phone on 056 7794920.

The benefits of seniors staying at home

Written by Michael Doyle

We all know there is no place like home, whether it be the familiar scents, the sentimental objects or the familial company. However, when the option of senior care is required, there comes a decision to be made. Choosing the best care option for the senior in question can be a difficult decision, with many factors to consider surrounding the health and support network of the senior. Should seniors opt for home care, they can receive personal care from a professional care giver in the familiar surroundings of their home, which can provide critical emotional and health benefits for seniors by offering comfort, stability, and a sense of independence. So, if you are a senior, or a loved one on behalf of a senior, here is a guide on how seniors receiving care in their home can be beneficial to them.

Emotional Comfort:

Staying in a familiar and predictable environment can reduce anxiety, confusion and feelings of insecurity seniors may have. This, along with familiar scents and items, can aid in cognitive functioning

for those with dementia or cognitive challenges.

Health Protection: Seniors know the layout of their own home, from doors

and floors to light switches, which can reduce the risk of accidents. Seniors staying at home can also reduce the risk of exposure to illnesses, germs, and infections which

are more common through other care options, and studies show that seniors who age in place tend to be healthier, both mentally and physically, and can recover

from illnesses or surgeries faster and more successfully in their own homes.

Social Continuity: Seniors staying in the same area makes it easier for them

to continue engaging in their hobbies and maintain relationships with their neighbours and friends, preventing feelings of social isolation. Being surrounded by familiar objects and belongings can reduce feelings of loneliness for seniors and provide a sense of security and peace.

Preserving Independence:

Having a sense of control over their lifestyle fosters independence, which boosts self-esteem and overall mood. By staying and receiving care in their home, seniors can keep control over their daily routines, schedules, and personal choices such as meal times and personal habits. For many seniors, staying at home is not just about comfort; it is a way to preserve their identity and continue living life on their own terms. Allowing seniors to remain in the comfort, familiarity, and stability of their own home can provide so many benefits to the senior emotionally, physically, and socially, while maintaining their independence and well-being. Hopefully, this guide can help you to make an informed choice on the best care option for you in your senior years, or a senior loved one in your life.

Food & Drink

Savoy Cabbage and Bacon Stir-Fry

RECIPE

This quick and flavourful cabbage stir-fry makes a perfect side dish or light main.

Ingredients :

• 1 small Savoy cabbage, shredded

• 150g smoked bacon, chopped

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: a sque eze of lemon or a sprinkle of chili flakes

Method:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until golden. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Add shredded cabbage, tossing to combine. Cook for 5 - 7 minutes, until tender but still vibrant, and season with salt and pepper. For extra zing, finish with a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of chili flakes.

Serve hot as a side to roast meats, or enjoy on its own with crusty bread. Quick, nutritious and packed with flavour, cabbage has never been so tasty.

Cabbage is having its moment

INGREDIENTS

once seen as plain or even dull, is making a comeback in Irish kitchens. People are using it in everything from winter

to slaws and kimchi, showing it can be both comforting and stylish.

Cabbage grows well here, especially tough winter types like Savoy and green cabbage. These can withstand frost and develop sweeter, nuttier flavours. Both chefs and home cooks are trying roasting, braising and pickling to find new ways to enjoy it.

Cabbage is also very healthy. It is rich in vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants, making it a good choice for people who care about nutrition.

Farmers’ markets now offer many colourful types of cabbage, from deep purple to crinkled Savoy. This shows that more people are interested in seasonal, local produce.

Cabbage can be a simple side or the main part of a modern recipe. Either way, it has become an important part of healthy meals.

Kilkenny in good spirits for 2026 festival

DRINK

Kilkenny may be known for hurling rivalries, but this February the contest with Wexford takes a more civilised turnover a glass of Irish whiskey. Now in its fourth year, the South East Whiskey Festival is expanding for 2026 and will bring much of its programme to Kilkenny City for the first time. From Thursday 26 to Saturday 28, the festival will feature 16 small masterclasses in both Kilkenny and Wexford. The festival was started in 2023 by South East natives Johnnie Barron (The Sky and the Ground), Daithí O’Connell (O’Connell Whiskey Merchants) and Michael Cowman (Good Spirits Bottling). The festival has steadily built a reputation for doing things properly - focusing on quality,

access and conversation rather than spectacle. The festival starts on Thursday night with a Bonders’ Dinner at Paris Texas in Kilkenny. Guests will enjoy a fourcourse menu paired with a special selec tion of whiskeys from some of Ireland’s top inde pendent bonders.

On Friday and Saturday night, master distillers and brand ambassa dors from producers including Method and Madness, Teel ing, Redbreast,

Food is a key driver for

FOOD

As one of Ireland’s strongest tourism hubs, Kilkenny’s eateries are not just part of the visitor experience; they are increasingly a reason to travel.

Recent research from Tourism Ireland found that 70 per cent of potential international visitors think about food when picking a holiday destination. The study, carried out with RED C and over 8,000 holidaymakers from places like Great Britain, the United States, Germany, France and other key markets, shows that a good food reputation is becoming more important for attracting overseas travellers. This is good news for Kilkenny, where restaurants, traditional pubs, cafés and local food producers are a big part of what makes the city attractive.

More than 70 per cent of people surveyed expect the

food in Ireland to be good. Expectations are even higher in the US at 90 per cent and in Great Britain at 83 per cent.

International visitors often think of Ireland for its farmto-fork meals, pub food and traditional home cooking. These match well with what Kilkenny already offers, and the research also points to a chance to highlight seafood and the variety in modern Irish cuisine.

Value for money is still important, but people who have visited before rate their experience more highly than those considering their first trip. This suggests that once travellers try Ireland’s hospitality, food, and atmosphere, they find it worthwhile.

As travellers look for authentic and memorable trips, Kilkenny’s food and drink scene seems ready not just to welcome visitors, but to impress them.

Dingle Distillery, Clonakilty Distillery, Bushmills and Dunville’s will host tastings in venues including Paris Texas, Pembroke Hotel and

A special highlight for Kilkenny audiences will be a tasting at Kyteler’s Inn, led by Niall Bolger of Echlinville Distillery. Niall, a Kilkenny native, is returning home to present Old Comber whiskey.

Festivalgoers can also travel beyond the city for distillery tours at Ballykeefe Distillery and Royal Oak Distillery, with transport included

in ticket prices. With tickets at €20 per masterclass, the organisers have made the festival accessible on purpose. Co-founder Daithí O’Connell explained: “When we launched this festival four years ago, we wanted to create an event that was a little bit different. There are so many distilleries now with mature stock that we wanted to celebrate the integrity of Irish whiskey and the future potential. This festival is about meeting the makers, hearing the stories and promoting Irish made products”. Whether Kilkenny or Wexford claims bragging rights may be up for debate - but for one weekend at least, the South East will be united by good spirits.

Tickets are available at whiskeyfestival.ie.

international visitors

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Cabbage,

stews

South East Whiskey Festival co-founder Daithí O’Connell

mdjaff

Eddi’s ‘Perfect’ night in Kilkenny

What’s On

MUSIC

Eddi Reader will perform at the Watergate Theatre on Sunday bringing more than four decades of live experience to the Kilkenny stage.

Throughout her career, Eddi has become known as one of popular music’s most distinctive and emotionally perceptive performers. Her live shows stand out for their depth and nuance and she brings a personal yet universal touch to every song. No two performances are ever quite the same. At her concerts, she often mixes

storytelling with music, giving audiences a glimpse into both the songs and the stories behind them.

She first became well known as the lead singer of Fairground Attraction, whose number one single Perfect and debut album First of a Million Kisses topped charts in the UK, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Japan during the 1980s. That early success brought her international attention, but it was her solo work that proved her staying power and creative independence. Over many acclaimed al-

bums, Eddi has explored folk, pop, traditional Scottish songs and modern songwriting, always showing her dedication to craft and authenticity. Her expressive, controlled and instantly recognisable voice is still at the heart of what makes her special.

One of her most celebrated projects is The Songs of Robert Burns (2003), a thoughtful take on Scotland’s national bard that received widespread praise and brought Burns’ poetry to new listeners. This project became a key moment in her career and showed her

deep connection to her cultural roots.

Eddi’s work in music has been widely recognised. She has received honorary degrees from several Scottish universities and was awarded an MBE for her outstanding service to the arts.

People attending the Watergate Theatre can look forward to an evening of well-crafted songs performed with warmth, skill, and quiet intensity. The show will reflect her experience, musical curiosity and real connection with the audience.

Meet the Fresh Prince of Kildare

COMEDY

Kilkenny Comedy Club welcomes one of Ireland’s fastestrising stand-ups when Peter Flanagan brings his debut tour show, Fresh Prince of Kildare to town on February 27. Following his sold-out and critically acclaimed run at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Flanagan’s debut tour marks a major moment for the young comic, whose online following has surged in recent years. Blending sharp observational humour with deeply personal storytelling, Fresh Prince of Kildare explores identity, belonging and the cultural whiplash of leaving rural Ireland for life in London.

Raised in what he describes as a deeply conservative pocket of Kildare, Flanagan mines his upbringing for both affection and absurdity. The show traces his move to East London - a self-styled “melting pot” that challenged many of his assumptions - and the chaotic year of bad dates, overindulgence and tentative selfdiscovery that followed. The result is an hour that balances punchy one-liners with longer, carefully constructed stories. With nearly 125,000 followers across social media and millions of views online, Flanagan has built a loyal audience drawn to his whip-smart writing and willingness to skewer both himself and the political

Your picks for this week

TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE—OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK

What to Watch: Darkly funny and emotionally charged, If I Had Legs I’d Kick You is a sharp new drama exploring frustration, resilience and the quiet absurdities of modern life. Balancing biting humour with moments of raw honesty, the film follows a protagonist pushed to their limits as everyday pressures begin to mount. Wry, intimate and unexpectedly tender, it offers a compelling character study with plenty of edge. Opens today, IMC Kilkenny.

What to Read: In The Ghosts of Rome, Joseph O’Connor tells the gripping story of Contessa Giovanna Landini, who works with the secret Escape Line known as the Choir to smuggle Allied soldiers to safety under the Gestapo’s watchful eye. When a mysterious parachutist appears, drawing the deadly attention of brutal chief Paul Hauptmann, Giovanna is forced into a high-stakes game where every choice could put livesand the mission - at risk.

What to Stream: The Night Agent returns for Series 3 on Netflix, continuing the tense spy thriller following FBI agent Peter Sutherland. After the shocking events of the previous season, Peter is drawn deeper into a sprawling conspiracy involving betrayals, hidden agendas and threats from powerful foes. Packed with high-stakes action, twists and emotional revelations, Series 3 promises edge-of-your-seat drama, unexpected alliances and life-or-death decisions that push Peter and his allies to their absolute limits.

landscape around him. That combination of introspection and bite has earned him headline slots at major clubs and festivals, along with praise from critics.

The Times described his work as “a witty blend of personal stories and political humour… a rising star”, while Chortle noted simply: “The storytelling is great.”

Still early in his touring career, Flanagan is already establishing a reputation as one of the most promising new voices in Irish comedy. Audiences at Kilkenny Comedy Club can expect a confident, sharply delivered hour that announces a talent very much on the rise.

What to Listen To: From the Wuthering Heights soundtrack, Charli XCX’s Always Everywhere is a windswept, string-driven ballad that blends emotive vocals with an atmospheric, cinematic sound. Released as part of the film’s companion album, the track captures themes of longing, love and memory, echoing the gothic intensity of Emily Brontë’s classic story. Minimal instrumentation and haunting melodies make it a centrepiece, perfectly complementing the drama and emotional depth of Emerald Fennell’s new adaptation.

What to Play: Tokyo Xtreme Racer hits PCs and PlayStation 5 on 26 February 2026, reviving the classic street-racing franchise with modern visuals and high-speed thrills. Set in a sealed-off future Tokyo Xtreme Racer Tokyo, players blaze through the neon-lit Shuto Expressway in customised cars and face off in unique Spirit Point battles that test both their speed and strategy. With detailed courses, fierce rivals and deep tuning options, this is a must-play for racing fans.

Bryan Ledgard, Flickr

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA CAMOGIE

Well, done to Emma Shortall who came on for Kilkenny in the opening round of the National Camogie League on Saturday. Kilkenny travelled to the home of All Ireland champions Galway and came home with a surprise 2-11 to 1-13 win to get their campaign off to the perfect start. Next up is Tipperary at home.

Well, done to Emily Phelan who was part of the Loreto Junior panel that travelled to Craughwell and defeated Presentation Athenry 2-19 to 1-6 in the All Ireland semifinal last week.

Hard luck to Katie Ryan and Laoise Nolan who played on the losing side for UCD as they lost out to UCC in the Ashbourne Cup final.

FOOTBALL

Clara began life in Intermediate football with a resounding 2-14 to 1-5 victory away to Piltown on Saturday. Piltown scored first but Hugh Kelly soon equalised. Piltown looked the livelier of the two teams’ early doors but after a pinpoint Killian Phelan pass found Dara Glynn in full flight behind the home defence to crash home a near post goal, the momentum shifted. Ciaran Prendergast and Killian Phelan converted frees and Kevin Nolan added one from play. Clara found themselves 1-4 to 0-1 ahead and with the weather deteriorating it was a significant lead. However, Piltown fought back to score three of the half’s last four points (Liam Ryan kicked the Clara one) and this left Clara with a 1-5 to 0-4 lead at the break.

Killian Phelan opened the second half scoring with a fine off the ground two point free and when Kevin Nolan and Martin O Connell added points from play the lead was out to 8. Piltown replied with a pointed free, but Kevin Nolan, Shane Staunton and Martin O Connell notched further points to increase the lead to an unassailable ten points. The next score was a long range shot for a point by Piltown, which dipped at the last second to deceive an otherwise foot perfect Sean Carrigan in the Clara goal. It was only a temporary setback as a point by Peter Nolan and a Kevin Nolan goal at the end of a sweeping move involving Liam Ryan, Shane Staunton, Tom Ryan and finally Kevin finished the game decisively. Shane Staunton had the last say with the game’s final point. It was a good start for the Clara men who host the Rower Inistioge in their next fixture.

SAVE THE DATE

Medal Presentation Night for our U21 Hurlers (2024) and Camogie u22’s (2023+2025) in Langton’s Set Theatre Saturday 21st Feb. All Welcome, tickets (€15) available from committees or teams.

CLUB LOTTO

The Lotto result the 10th of February is as follows, the numbers drawn were 8, 19 and 25. There was no Jackpot winner. The €30 Lucky Dip went to Martin Dooley, Liam Mulhall, Billy Carrigan, Aine McDonald and Ray Lannen.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

OFFICIAL OPENING

The official opening of O’Loughlin Gaels new Ball Wall and Astroturf area will take place on Saturday 28th February. The opening will be performed by the President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns. An open invitation to the opening is extended to all club members, supporters and members of the local community.

FOOTBALL CAMPAIGN COMMENCES

O’Loughlin Gaels began their 2026 senior football campaign with a difficult assignment away to county champions Mullinavat in Mullinavat on Friday night last in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Kilkenny Senior Football League. On a bitterly cold night both sides gave their all and the half time score was Mullinavat 1-7 to O’Loughlins.0-6. The southern team took over in the second half with the benefit of the breeze and finished winners by 2-13 to 0-8. It was the first competitive game the southern team has played under their new floodlights.

CAMOGIE REPRESENTATIVES

Well, done to O’Loughlin Gaels camogie players Laura Greene and Laura Murphy who were part of the Kilkenny team which defeated Galway by 2-11 to 1-13 in the Centra National Camogie League game played in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Sunday last.

HANDBALL ACTION CONTINUES

Last weekend was another busy one on the handball courts for O’Loughlins Handball Club. Lauren Daly reached the final of the Under-15 singles county championships but was narrowly beaten by her Windgap opponent. On Sunday Conor Geoghegan won through the group stages of the Under-12 boys’ championship before taking the gold against a Talbot’s Inch opponent in a very entertaining final. Also, a big well done to Chloe Collins, Kate Skehan and Killian Skehan who performed well in their championships.

EASTER CAMP

O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club’s Easter Camp is fast approaching and it’s not to be missed. Sign up and register now so as not to be disappointed. Easter Camp will take place from Monday 30th March to Friday 3rd April. The cost per child is €55 with reductions for families with 2 or 3 children participating. Deadline for registration is March 20th. Camp Coordinators are Stephen Murphy and Paddy Deegan. Register on Google Forms or contact Stephen at 085-7181325 for details.

CLUB MEMBERSHIP

O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club members are reminded that 2026 membership fees are now due. Payment can be made via the www.foireann. ie website. Follow the guidelines to the O’Loughlin Gaels section where the different membership categories and prices are displayed.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated February 10th. The numbers drawn were 12, 16, 22, 27 and the bonus number was 26. Play Now at www.oloughligaels.com. Thank you for your continued support.

Promotors Draw, 1. Betty Leydon c/o P Leydon. 2. Catherine Coyne c/o M Nolan. 3. Fiona Hayes c/o N Loy. 4. Becky Cleere c/o K Cleere. 5. Tasha and Robbie c/o P Greene. 6. Theresa Walsh c/o M Doran. 7. Des Byrne c/o M Deegan. 8. Darren Carroll c/o Online. 9. Noel Stakelum c/o Online. 10. Willie O’Neill c/o Online

NOTES

If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie

FRESHFORD

SYMPATHY

DONAL O’NEILL (RIP)

The death of Donal O’Neill, Barna, Freshford, took place suddenly last week. A very quiet gentleman, he was a member of a well known and respected family in the parish. Funeral mass took place in St Lachtain’s church followed by the Burial in St. Lachtain’s cemetery. He is mourned by his brother Tom, sister Brid, brother-in-law, nephews and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

FRANKIE FARRELL (RIP)

Sympathy is extended to. Nessa and Tomas Flynn on the death last week of Nessa’s dad Frankie Farrell late Of Main St, Gowran. Funeral mass took place in the church of the Assumption Gowran Followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

MRS ELSIE WILLIAMS (RIP)

Sympathy also is extended to Patrick Williams of Woodview and Catherine Walsh Sart on the death last week of their mother Mrs Elsie Williams late of Parkmore Terrace Gowran. Funeral mass took place in Gowran. Church. Followed by Burial in the adjoining cemetery.

GAA

Adult Gaelic football returned to Pairc Lachtain last weekend for the first time in several years when St Lachtains took on Blacks and Whites in the JJ Kavanagh junior football league. Despite a strong comeback in the second half which saw the home side score an impressive goal and three well taken two pointers, but it still wasn’t enough to seal the win and the game finished Blacks and Whites 5-6

St Lachtains 2-12. St Lachtains junior side take on St. Patrick’s in Ballyragget this evening, Friday 20th February at 7.30pm

GAA MEMBERSHIP

Membership for the 2026 season is now open and can be paid to any committee member or through Clubzap or Foireann. Details can be found on the club’s social media pages.

SPLIT THE POT

The proceeds of this month’s split the pot is going

to Threecastles Community Hall. Winner on the first week’s draw was Pattie Corrigan and she won €167. Tickets are just €2 each and are available at all local pubs and businesses. Be in to win.

SOCCER

Freshford town had a number of teams in action at weekend. The junior side went down 4-1 to Freebooters B. In the schoolboys/girl’s section the u11boys lost 3-0 to Thomastown. The u11girls lost 2-1 to Evergreen with Lila Phelan scoring the Freshford towns goal. The. u13 girls lost 1-0 to Evergreen.

PILGRIMAGE

The annual Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from May 25th to 30th (5nights). The cost is €995per person.

COMMUNITY ALERT

Freshford/Threecastles Community alert remind you that membership is now due and you can contact any Committee member if you want to join the group or pay your membership.

BORD NA NOG

Club membership is now due for 2026. Membership can be paid to any committee member or through Cubzap or Foireann details can be found on club’s social media page.

FOROIGE

Freshford Foroige youth club is now back after its Christmas break. The club meet each Monday evening at the Community Hall. New members are very welcome, and they are also looking for leaders.

IONAD LACHTAIN

St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

CLOTHES COLLECTION

Gatabawn will hold a clothes collection on Sat 14th March and Sat 21st March from 10am to 4 pm. They will be collecting clothes, shoes, handbags and toys. A donation from the proceeds will be given to the Laura Lynn children’s hospice. Your support would be greatly appreciated.

ELLO ELLO ELLO

Freshford is to get a new Garda. Local Cllr Michael McCarthy said he is delighted that a new Garda has been assigned to Freshford. Garda Cian O’Connor will take up his new post on 16 February. Cllr McCarthy would like to thank our previous Garda Noel Casey who was an outstanding community Garda and gave tremendous service to the village and surrounding areas over the last four years .he epitomised the importance of community policing and succeeded in improving safety in the village through reaching out to local organisations in a collaborative approach and he wished him all the best in his future career. Garda O’Connor will be very welcome in the area, and we look forward to his arrival said Cllr McCarthy and he said he would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge Supt Sean O’Meara for his role in the appointment.

OUTREACH CENTRE

Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 087 4833941

BRIDGE

Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are also being held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge and you are most welcome to attend these classes. For further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 if you are interested in joining

PARISH NEWS

Mass times for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 730pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1, 2, 3 basis. Weekly masses Monday 9.30am Kilmanagh, Tuesday and Friday –Freshford -9.30am and Thursday –Tullaroan at 9.30am. Confirmation will take place in St Lachtains church on Wednesday 22nd April at 11am

RADIO

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

NEWSLETTER

The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office

during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours.

MASS CARDS

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

VISITS

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

LOOP CAFE

The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am to 4pm and is a welcoming hub in the village. They’re always happy to see more people on both sides of the counter, so why not drop in to support your local café, meet a friend, enjoy a chat, and savour some delicious homemade food? Along with great refreshments, The Loop hosts a variety of community activities that bring neighbours together. The café is also seeking volunteers to help keep these services thriving. If you’re interested in getting involved, please call 056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon.

MABS

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

Vincent De Paul

The St. Patrick’s Parish Conference of the Society of Vincent de Paul would like to thank all those who donated most generously during the Christmas period and also throughout the year 2025. We greatly appreciate the financial donations (including anonymous) the various voucher types, food and funds from fundraisers etc., that were received. Thanks too to the staff, the Parents Council and pupils of St. Patrick’s De La Salle Boys School for the items collected from their Christmas hamper appeal. Our thanks also to the pupils and staff of Presentation Secondary School for the funds raised for our Christmas Appeal. Again, thank you all so much, the Conference appreciates everyone’s generosity.

GRUPA CUPLA FOCAL

Tiocfaidh an grupa Cupla Focal le cheile aris sa chlub theach ar an gCeadaoin so chugainn, Feabhra 18(anocht) ag 8.30pm. Beidh failte roimh gach einne, Gaeilgoiri liofa agus go hairithe daoine nach bhfuil ach an cupla focal acu agus gur mhaith leo an cupla focal sin a cheachtadh in atmaisfeir cairdiul suaimhnitheach

SENIOR

FOOTBALL

On a bitterly cold and wet Saturday afternoon the James Stephens senior footballers produced an impressive all round team performance of slick passing and quality finishing to account for Dicksboro 0-17 to 1-07 in their 2nd round senior football league fixture in Palmerstown. Trailing by a point after 3minutes a fine Sean Manogue solo effort set the ball rolling for the Village with a quality point in the 7th minute. In the 10th minute Fionn Cody with a blistering shot for goal forced the ‘Boro goalkeeper into a top rate save but now with their tails up Sean Manogue followed up kicking three points from play and placed balls to give the visitors a 0-04 to 0-02 at the 15th minute. In the 22nd minute after the ball ricocheted off the Dicksboro goalpost, corner forward James Carroll opened his account with a well taken point. Continuing to dominate with patient combination play the Village won a penalty award in the 27th minute after Fionn Cody was tripped as he was about to kick for goal but, his subsequent strike failed to hit the target. Unfazed the in-form James Carroll (29 min), Sean Manogue (31min) and Fionn Cody (32min) finished the half giving James Stephens a 0-08 to 0-03 lead. The early minutes of the 2nd half saw Dicksboro force the pace but each of their scoring efforts were balanced by the sharp shooting trio of James Carroll (4min), Fionn Cody (6min) and Sean Manogue (10min) with solid back up play by half forwards Oisin Bateman, Niall Mullins and Stephen Manogue to retain their lead at 0-11 to 0-05. The midfield duo of Eoin Deely and

Community & GAA Notes

Luke Scanlon were highly effective tracking back to help the defence and opening opportunities in attack throughout the fast-paced fixture in testing conditions. In the 16th minute James Carroll kicked over a morale boosting two pointer to push James Stephens into a 0-13 to 0-06 lead. Dicksboro fought hard to close the gap but points by Fionn Cody and a second two pointer by James Carroll sealed the victory despite the ‘Boro hitting the Village net in the 30th minute. Like with most winning teams this victory was built on a sturdy defence with strong leadership from David Hennessy, Sam McEvoy and Luke Hickey, in particular, that frustrated the many Dicksboro attacks with their tight marking tactics over the hour. Well, done, lads a good start.

CAMOGIE

Congratulations to club stars Niamh Deely, Michelle Teehan and Emily Smith members of the Kilkenny senior camogie team that got their season off to a promising start with an impressive 2-11 to 1-13 victory over All-Ireland champions, Galway, in the 1st round of the 2026 National camogie league in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Saturday last. Forming the central spine of the defence, Michelle at full back and Niamh at centre back the Village girls played a central role in the victory. Emily only recently joined the senior panel and was on the substitutes list for the fixture. The result was also encouraging for clubman Kieran Brennan who is the team coach and selector with the new look Kilkenny camogie set up.

MUSIC NIGHT

On Saturday 28th February the popular local band, Rough and Ready will take to the stage for a night of musical entertainment. Why not come along and enjoy the craic and maybe a bit of dancing and jiving to lift the spirits after a gloomy winter season. All are welcome.

JUNIOR FOOTBALL

Having successfully soaked up a continuous bombardment by the wind assisted Railyard team throughout the first half, the James Stephens players were relieved to hear the referee’s half time whistle having held their opponents to a narrow 0 -04 to 0-01 lead. Credit for that achievement, which was the platform for eventual victory, must go to strong defensive leadership by Eoin Larkin, Adam Butler, Shane Donohue, Shane Campion and the dependable goalkeeper James Rafter, in particular. The selectors too helped with astute substitutions when introducing Bill Kavanagh, James Gladney, Tuan Hyland and Dara Power to relieve tired limbs on an energy draining playing surface. The Village takeover started in the 4th minute of the 2nd half when Stephen Manogue planted the ball in the net from a controversial penalty award. Stephen PowerKellett followed up with another three-pointer at the end of a passing movement in the 7th minute to give the home team the lead for the first time at 2-01 to 0-04. Railyard tried to rally with points in the 9th, 12th and 18th minutes but Eoin Larkin’s finish to the net in the 18th minute consolidated the Village lead at 3-02 to 0-07. Continuing with their impressive passing game Stephen Power-Kellett tapped over two more single scores before a fourth goal by Stephen Manogue in the dying minutes of the game put paid to the determined Railyard team’s efforts for a convincing 4-04 to 0-09 victory for the Village men. With three points on the league table this is a promising start to the 2026 Junior “B” football league campaign for the club’s plentiful supply of talented Gaelic football players. Well, done lads.

CLUB APPOINTMENT

At the recent management meeting Anthony Morrison was confirmed as the new fundraising chairperson. Anthony will have responsibility for promoting and maximising the returns to the club from the annual Golf Classic, the BBQ Family Fun event, the Hurler’s Co-op draw and the Doggie Nite. Anthony confirmed that the Doggie Nite has been booked for Friday night 17th April at the Kilkenny Greyhound track. Tickets are already available from committee members.

LOTTO (CRANNCHUR)

Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite na 5, 17, 21, 30. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir. (No Winner). Na mionduaiseanna €40 Tom Keane, Sean MacDonald, Gerry Mullaney, Oliver Millea agus Eileen Brodrick. Go raibh maith agaibh as bhur dtachaiocht. (Thanks to all for your continuing support).

BENNETTSBRIDGE

FILM PROGRESS

An enthusiastic group is working hard at getting the “Bennettsbridge through the years” film/ documentary off the ground. Now entering its fifth

week much preparatory work has been carried out. The response from the community has been very positive and a number of people have been approached and have agreed to be involved. For more information contact Jane 0863655314 or call Michael 0876841155.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Breda O’Shea, Kilree Park and extended family members on the death of Breda’s father, Willie O’Keeffe, Smithstown, Thomastown. Willie, in his 91st year, passed away on Friday, 13th February 2026, surrounded by his family, at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny. Predeceased by his wife Alice (née O’Neill), brother Paddy and sister Breda (Delaney). Willie will be sadly missed by his loving familydaughters: Breda (O’Shea) and Margaret (Power), sons: Michael, Tom and Billy, sons-in-law: Tom and John, daughters-in-law: Mairead, Deirdre and Sharon, his grandchildren: Liam, Niamh, Ailís, Seán, James, Billy, Caoimhe, David, Sinéad, Orla, Dearbhail, Róisín, Éanna, Ciara, Marie and Billy, his brother John, sister-in-law Berry, nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbours. Willie lay in repose at his home. Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption followed by interment in St. Mary’s New Cemetery, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny.

ANGELA TEEHAN nee KELLY (RIP) Sympathy is also extended to the Teehan and Kelly families on the death of Angela Teehan (née Kelly), Berkley Lawn, Thomastown, Kilkenny and late of Killarney, Thomastown and Kilcreene, Kilkenny. Angela passed away on 9th February 2026, peacefully, with her family by her side, in the wonderful care of the staff on the Barrow Ward in St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny. Sadly, missed by her loving husband Ted, daughter Lucy, sons Niall and Joe, grandchildren Saoirse, Nessa and Isaac, daughters-in-law Denise and Sarah, son-in-law Brian, nieces, nephews, extended family, good neighbours, friends and carers.

Angela was predeceased by her sisters Breda, Margaret and Kathleen, brothers Liam, Tony, Ted, Gerard, Michael, Tim and Frank.

Angela lay in repose in Johnston’s Funeral Home, John’s Green, where Vigil prayers were recited. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church, Tullaherin, Co. Kilkenny followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

CHURCH NEWS

First Communion Preparation Mass was celebrated on Sunday with Fr Pat Dalton officiating. Children and parents were welcomed. Preparations are on-going in class for First Penance on Wednesday 4th March.

MASS TIMES

Bennettsbridge Thursday and Friday 10.30am. Sunday 10 30am. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm

TROCAIRE BOXES

Trocaire Boxes are available in the church porch for

the traditional Lenten donations. OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

The Ossory Pilgrimage to Lourdes for 2026 will take place on May 25th to May 30th. All bookings through Joe Walsh Tours at 01-2410800. Or by post to JWT, 89 Harcourt Street, Dublin, 2. DO2WY88. Special assisted/sick section pilgrims who would like to travel should apply to, Anna Colleton at a.colleton@cbskilkenney.ie. Acceptance for travel is subject to the approval of the Pilgrimage Medical Board.

LOTTO RESULTS

There was no winner of the Jackpot. The Numbers drawn were 12, 20, 23, 25. Jackpot value €12,000.00 still there for some lucky punter. Consolation Prizes, Angela Barrett, ℅ Crotty’s, Kevin Davey, Woodlawn, David Kenny, The Ring, Pat and Angie, Thomastown, Mollie Cahalane, Kilfane.

CARDS

Results 27th January, First Prize Brian Blackmore/ Annie Lehane (13 games). Second Prize Toddy Skehan/Marty Hanlon and Richie Proctor/Richard Murphy (10 game). Table Prize Brian Ireland/Pat Savage 3rd February. First Prize Michael Kenneally/Mick Fitzpatrick (13 games). Second Prize Siobhan Donovan/Joan O’Gorman (10 games). Table Prize Vinnie Horgan/Andrew Barcoe 10th February, First Prize Brian Blackmore/Annie Lehane (12 games) Second Prize Michael Kenneally/ Lar Gibbons (9 games) Table Prize Jack Kavanagh/ Jack Bolger.

EAST END SOCCER

U13 girls secured a 1–0 victory over Freshford Town last weekend. Well, done girls!

Massive congratulations to Harry and Robbie who proudly represented Kilkenny U13 in Cork! Special shout out to Robbie who found the back of the net and bagged himself a goal. Brilliant achievement lads — we’re all very proud!

GAA

Membership for the coming season is now open and can be paid to any committee member or online via clubspot. For non-playing members the membership remains at €40. Adult players membership is €150 and student players €100. Early payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2026 start to come in.

We wish the very best of luck to all ‘Bridge players trying out for Kilkenny squads and with various second and third level colleges at the moment. Best of luck also to the underage football teams who are getting the season underway in the next couple of

East End U13 girls secured a 1–0 victory over Freshford Town last weekend

Massive congratulations to Harry and Robbie who proudly represented Kilkenny U13

weeks.

We wish the very best of luck to Christy Walsh who has been re-appointed as Kilkenny football manager for the upcoming season.

The 2026 Easter Camp will be held from March 30th to April 2nd in the club grounds. Please see the clubs facebook page for details or contact Cormac Wafer or Enda Morrissey.

Bennettsbridge GAA club continues to promote Pitch signage campaign. 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. Thanks to all who entered our healthy clubs steps challenge that finished last week. Well, done to our final leaders, Frieda Daly, Tom Fitzgearld and Elaine Denieffe.

The next Split the Pot draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. The draw can also be entered online on the club spot app under fundraising. Thanks again for the support.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

HIGHVIEW

Thanks very much to Michael from Walsh’s Daybreak/Texaco for generously sponsoring our u11 team with a new set of jerseys. Very much appreciated.

Highview U/11 Red team faced Evergreen City in Harristown this morning. Evergreen started on the front foot and went in a half time with a 2-0 lead, shortly after the break they extended their lead to 3 and the game looked to be over. However, the Highview lads dug deep and showed fantastic battling qualities to grab a goal back through an og, they continued to press and thanks to a Jack Bolger penalty reduced the deficit to one. They piled the pressure on for the last 10 minutes but couldn’t force the equaliser and Evergreen held on for a 3-2 win. Well, done to all the lads for their skill commitment and attitude.

The Highview U/11 Blue team faced Clover Utd in the 2nd game of the David Doran Cup. Highview started well and continued to dominate for the half creating a number of chances and were unlucky to go in at halftime scoreless. The lads continued to press in the second half, and their pressure was rewarded when a Neil Bolger corner fell to Fionn Delaney who finished for the opening goal. Even though Highview were on top Clover never stopped fighting and got their reward when a rare venture into Highviews half resulted in a fantastic long range goal to level the game. Highview got back on the front foot and between the crossbar and good goalkeeping they couldn’t manage a second goal and the game ended in a 1-1 draw. Well, done to all the lads who never gave up and kept trying to play football. They now sit joint top of their group with a home fixture v Deen Celtic next to finish the group stages.

DUISKE COLLEGE

UCD Entrance Scholars Awards Ceremony; Congratulations to Luke Walsh who was awarded the UCD Entrance Scholars Award. This prestigious award is presented to students who achieve exceptional results in their Leaving Certificate examinations. Ms Norton had the pleasure of teaching both Luke and his parents during their time at school. Luke has now commenced his studies in Radiography at UCD. We are immensely proud of Luke here in Duiske College, this award is well deserved after his hard work throughout his time in the school. Two weeks ago, the 6th year music students attended a workshop at TU University, Dublin. The workshop included a deep dive into the musical work of Raymond Deane which is on the leaving cert course. The musicians broke down all the instrumental and compositional techniques so the students could hear each part separately. Then they heard a full performance of the work. A fantastic experience for the students which will undoubtedly be of great value for the leaving certificate examination and a big thanks to Ms. Reddy for organizing the trip.

GOLF SOCIETY A.G.M

The Golf Society Annual General Meeting will be held next Friday at 8:00 PM in the Scout Den. All members are invited to attend this important gathering to discuss society matters, share updates, and plan upcoming events. Your participation and input are highly encouraged.

DUISKE PLAYERS

We are changing things up this year with our spring production, we are delighted to be performing two One Acts Plays on Thurs 26th, Fri 27th and Sun 29th March in Graiguenamanagh Abbey Hall. Both plays

are comedies but that is where the similarity ends, the cast are as follows:

“Dead Mans Bells” by Meabh de Brun, Eldest.Edel Bolger. Middle.Rebecca Murphy. Youngest.Caroline Cotter.

“Last Tango in Little Grimley”. Gordon. John Meaney. Bernard. Nathan Dunne. Joyce.Naomi Coady. Margaret. Margaret Whelan

Peter Prendergast is back in the director’s chair this year and will direct both plays. We look forward to seeing you all on the night.

KILMANAGH

JOHN DERMODY MEMORIAL RING TOURNAMENT

The Annual John Dermody Memorial Ring Tournament was held in Ryan’s Bar on Sunday, 1st February where a total of 30 players competed. Players representing The Pound, Ballycallan and Ryan’s Bar, Kilmanagh all attended. The list of players who took part on the night were as follows; Jason Dermody, Adrian Ronan, Tommy Dermody, Justin Dermody, Tommy Ronan, Dermot Ryall, Cathal Dermody, Tom Dunphy, Brendan Hayes, Brian Doheny, Niall Egan, Philip Cody, Maurice Ronan, Billy Fitzpatrick, John Hoyne, Micheal Hoyne, Roy Armitage, Philip Heaphy, Noel Dermody, Paul Hartley, Philip Butler, Tom Fennelly, Lowry Comerford, Keith Coffey, Bill Ryan, Stephen Keoghan, James Gleeson, Pat Boland, Martin Doheny and PJ Pollard.

The final was a thrilling encounter, which saw Brian Doheny, Philip Heaphy and Bill Ryan triumph over PJ Pollard, Justin Dermody and Paul Hartley with both teams left on 1.

The Highest Score Competition saw Brian Doheny take the honours here with a fantastic score of 55 after defeating Brendan Hayes and Philip Butler in a throw off. Highest Checkout went to PJ Pollard who superbly finished a tight game with 10 and 1.

The Dermody Family would like to thank all those who competed and attended this special night, the 22nd year of this tournament. A massive thanks to all who arranged teams to travel on the night, without these people, the night would not have been a big success. They would like to thank The Ryan Family for their hospitality on the night and Vaughan’s Takeaway who supplied the food. A big thank you to Francis Maher who produced the magnificent trophies for the winners and the runners up. The night ended with the shield being presented to the captain of the winners, Brian Doheny.

COMMUNITY ALERT

Ballycallan Kilmanagh Killaloe Community Alert Group would like to thank everyone who came

along on Saturday last to get their property marked. We would also like to thank Tom Ryall Park staff for allowing us to use their premises. A huge thanks to Ned Kearney from Muintir na Tire for carrying out the branding. This will help An Garda Siochana enormously to trace the owner of property that has been recovered.

TEXT ALERT

We are trying to reactivate the text alert system in the community. This system is there to notify you of any suspicious activity in the parish. If you have been on the list previously you will just need to pay the annual subscription of €10 to have your number reactivated. If you want to join the list, please give your €10 plus name and phone number to any of the committee members or Revolut 086 373 99 83 with your details. Some members of the committee that you can contact are Eamon Phelan, Eileen Lanigan and Jerry Ryan.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Congratulations to Ben McEvoy who was voted Player of the Week after his performance in St Kieran’s College’s Senior A Leinster Final win last Saturday. Thank you to all who voted for him on the Kilkenny Cats Social App.

EASTER CAMP

The Graigue Ballycallan Camp is back this, Easter. Four fun days of activities including: hurling, camogie, football, music, games, arts and lots more for boys and girls aged 5-13 years. On Wednesday 18th March, there will be a registration evening in Tom Ryall Park from 7pm to 8pm. Contact Darragh Egan on 087 271 64 31 for more information.

TABLE QUIZ

Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies Group will hold a Table Quiz in Ryan’s Pub, Kilmanagh on Friday 20th March at 8:30pm. Table of 4 for €20. Lone quizzers also welcome €5 per entry. A raffle will be held on the night with some great prizes.

FAMILY FUN RUN

Graigue/Ballycallan Athletic Club, in association with St Aidan’s NS Parent’s Association, are holding a 10k and 5k Family fun run on Sunday 8th March, at 11am starting in Kilmanagh village. The cost is €20 for a chipped 10k, €10 for unchipped 5k and a family ticket for the 5k is also €20. You can register on the day, or you can register online prior to the event if you look up our athletic club social media pages, all the details are there.

HURLING |AND CAMOGIE TRAINING

With the 2026 season just around the corner, we wish to extend the invitation to any children who would like to come and join the U6 hurling or camogie teams. It’ll be a great environment to make new friends, learn new skills and have some fun. Also,

any parents who would like to help out with coaching are more than welcome. Please contact either Noel Dermody on 086 054 0385 or Tom Ryan on 086 198 2955 to sign up your children to play or if you’re looking for any information regarding training or coaching.

OLD SCHOOL BOYS

There is a weekly gathering of men, of varying vintage, in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh. Join them for a cuppa and a chat, each Friday morning from 10am to 12 noon.

ACTIVE LADIES GROUP

Active Ladies Group meet each Monday evening from 7pm to 9pm in Naomh Aodhan Community Centre, Kilmanagh. If you wish to join the group or need any further details, please contact 086 373 99 83 or come along any Monday evening.

LOCAL BUS SERVICE

The Local Link Bus Service will bring you from your door to Kilkenny each Tuesday and Saturday. Initially you must register with Local Link (0818 424 141) and after that, you book a seat a day or two in advance of your journey.

ATHLETICS CLUB

Thinking of getting back into running or trying something new? Join the local Athletics Club for their weekly club run every Tuesday at 7pm. Meeting point: Callan Medical Centre. All are welcome. If you are looking for something more sedate, there is a new Walk and Talk every Thursday at 7pm at the Callan Medical Centre. All are welcome.

LOTTO RESULTS

The Lotto results for 9th February. Numbers drawn were 2; 6; 20; 21. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Maressa Bourke, Peter Brett and Keelan Lynch. Sellers prizes went to Bree Harrison and Eddie Brennan. Jackpot next week will be €6400.

SOCCER RESULTS

U17 Schoolboys League – Highview Ath 2, River Rangers 2

SOCCER FIXTURES

Saturday, February 21st – U14 Schoolboys League – River Rangers v Highview Ath Sunday, February 22nd – McCalmont Cup (1st Round) – East End v River Rangers.

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.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

AUCTION SALES (GORESBRIDGE)

The next auction will take place on April 20th. Suitable items are now accepted. Contact Martin on 087 2569496 or email goresbridgeantiques@ gmail.com

BARROW RANGERS

There was no winner of the lotto draw of 10th February. There was no

Match 3 winner. Just no luck at all.

A Club Dinner Dance will take place in The Lord Bagenal Hotel on Saturday 28th February. More information to follow.

BOXING CLUB

Well done to Mikey and Aeilf who boxed in their Leinster Championships. Both lads came up short on the day, but they put in strong performances and gained great experience at that level.

BRIDGE UNITED

The Club is delighted to confirm that Phase 1 of its development plan is now underway, with work on installing floodlights to our existing grass pitches beginning shortly. This is a major milestone for Bridge Utd AFC and it simply would not be possible without the continued backing of our community, members, and supporters. Phase 2 will see the installation of a 4G astroturf pitch.

If you would like to win the Women’s signed Irish goalkeeper’s jersey in the fundraiser for underage development contact Claire 085 7453605.

Congratulations to the winners in the lotto draw of 9th February: €35, each, to James/Breda Doran, Kevin Davitt, D Hillier

CHURCH SERVICES/EVENTS

Mass times: Goresbridge, Saturday 7.30pm, Sunday 10am; Paulstown: Sunday 11.30am. Weekday

Masses: Goresbridge, Ash Wednesday 7.30pm; Paulstown – Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am.

Church of Ireland: a service of Holy Communion this Sunday (22 February) at 11.30am in Grange

Tom Healy

John Dermody Memorial Rings Tournament Winners 2026

Community & GAA Notes

TALKING THE TALK

Cupla Focal is an Irish language conversation circle that meets every Friday in the Goodly Barrow Cafe. It offers a relaxed, friendly space to practice speaking Irish, build confidence, and connect with others interested in the language, from beginners to fluent speakers, through casual conversation and shared learning.

HORSE SALES (GORESBRIDGE)

The Performance Sale occurs on 4th-5th March.

KILCUMNEY PLAYERS

The comedy “Arsenic and Old Lace” will be presented on Thursday 26th, Friday 27th and Saturday 28th of February in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge at 8.00pm. Tickets at the door: Adults €15.00. Seniors and Students €12.00. Children €5.00. Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) €30.00. MENS SHED

The next meeting is Tuesday 24th February at 11am in in the cabin by the Paulstown Community Hall (R95 NY93. New members welcome.

SAPLINGS SCHOOL

(GORESBRIDGE)

The Light Up the Parish Charity event last December has announced that €15,000 was raised in aid of Saplings School Goresbridge. Out of the funds raised, the committee purchased a “Trike Bike”, presented to the school for pupils to enjoy. Thank to everyone who donated, sponsored or contributed in any way to make this dream a reality.

SPLIT

THE POT

In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie. The results of the lotto draw for 15 February were: 1 Dylan Maher (€100) 2. Elaine Power (€20) and 3. Tom and Bridget Healy

STROKE SUPPORT

Meetings at both the Kilkenny and the Carlow Stroke Support Groups are open to Stroke survivors and carers. The Carlow meeting takes place every second Friday of the month in St Dympna’s Hospital, Carlow from 2pm to 4pm. For further information text/call Lynda 087 7814697.

ZUMBA

Zumba Fitness in Borris Town Hall commencing 17/02/26 from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Adults only. All welcome, all fitness levels. €10 pay as you go. More information text Sinéad on 0862294546.

BALLYRAGGRT BALLYOUSKILL

QUIZ,

CRAIC AND MUSIC

A charity table quiz in aid of Ballyragget Development Association and Tidy Towns will take place on Saturday 14th March at 7.30pm. The cost is €20 per team of four. There will be a raffle on the night, followed by music from Billy White. All proceeds will go towards local enhancement actions within the town. All support would be greatly appreciated.

A NIGHT OUT

St. Patrick’s GAA and Camogie Club social night in Majors on Saturday night February 21st from 9pm all are welcome.

ALL ENCOMPASSING

St Patrick’s GAA and Camogie Club is delighted to introduce our new All Stars Inclusive Programme, which will begin in May 2026. This programme has been designed to provide inclusive Gaelic games for children aged 5–12 years with additional needs, including (but not limited to) autism, ADHD, sensory differences, or coordination challenges. Our aim is to create a relaxed, supportive, and fun environment where every child can take part, feel included, and enjoy being part of a team. Sessions will focus on non-contact hurling, Gaelic football, rounders, and other fun games, with an emphasis on participation rather than competition. The

most important part of this programme is that everybody has fun and feels welcome. All sessions will be supported by Garda-vetted volunteers who have completed the relevant safeguarding training. Each session will run for approximately 45 minutes per week, and parents/guardians are required to remain in attendance throughout. We believe this initiative will be a positive and enjoyable experience for children and families alike, and we would be delighted to welcome new participants and volunteers to the programme.

Membership to the all star program will be free but will require registration on Foireen. We will have an information night shortly (date to be confirmed). If you would like more information or wish to discuss whether this programme would suit your child, please feel free to contact any of the numbers listed. JJ O Sullivan: 087 1371810. Padraig Haughney: 085 1373096. Barry Staunton: 085 7088081

BALLYRAGGET MENS SHED AGM

Ballyragget Men’s Shed will hold its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, 26th February at 7:30pm in our Shed at the Mill Store, Parksgrove (R95 F6HW). We are always delighted to welcome new faces, and new members are very welcome on the night. If you, or anyone you know, might be interested in joining Ballyragget Men’s Shed, please come along and see what we’re about. We look forward to seeing you there.

RUMBALING ON

Katelyn Rumba on last Sunday night on Dancing with the stars to Boyzones No Matter What was once again spectacular and incredible and truly impressed the audiences and the judges alike. Seeing her score a 39/40 this, public votes together with her sporty spice performance in the group dance saw her safe. To vote for Katelyn you can text her name to 53125 on Sunday evening. Wishing Katelyn the very best for the competition.

LOURDES INVALID FUND

The Ballyragget/Ballyouskill Lourdes Invalid fund wish to invite worthy candidates to put their names forward in writing for the annual Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes. Please contact any of the Ballyragget/Ballyouskill committee members who are John Kennedy, Mary Kennedy, and Noel Cummins (Ballyouskill) and Catherine Quirke and Aileen McInerney (Ballyragget). Please note that the closing date for written applications is the 10th of March 2026.

FERRYBANK

URDF PROJECTS IN FERRYBANK

There are four Urban Regeneration Projects identi-

Sylvae (Goresbridge).

Enjoying the Trike Bike

Light Up the Parish raised€15,000 in aid of Saplings School Goresbridge

fied for Ferrybank/Belview area. The link road from the Belmount Roundabout to the Abbey Road was subject a Part VIII planning process and later to a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) process to 3rd December last year. The CPO is now operative. Detail design and tender documents are being finalized to submit to URDF in the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage for pretender approval.

Upgrades of the Belmont Road and the Abbey Road are at a planning stage. It is intended to progress the two projects together through the Part VIII planning process. As the major sections of both roads are in County Kilkenny it is intended to progress the Part VIII planning through Kilkenny County Council. This requires a Section 85 agreement between Kilkenny County Council and Waterford City and County Council. Discussions are taking place between the two Councils in relation to the preliminary design drawings before the Section 85 agreement is signed off. The fourth element of the URDF projects is the N29 Port Road. Preliminary Design Drawings are being worked on with a view to a Part VIII process later this year.

FERRYBANK SIGNAGE

Ferrybank Residents Community Development Group and Ferrybank Tidy Towns Group adopted a crest and motto for Ferrybank in 2016. A presentation on its origin and meaning formed part of the presentation to the Pride of Place judges in 2024. An approach on behalf of both groups was made to Kilkenny County Council and to Waterford City and County Council to have a Ferrybank sign (including crest) on the R711 approach to Ferrybank from the Slieverue side. It is intended to include the sign on drawings for the upgrade of the Belmont Road which will be part of the Part VIII process for the upgrade of that road. Also, an approach has been made to have a Ferrybank sign (including crest) erected at an appropriate location on the Dock Road on the approach to Ferrybank from the Rice Bridge side.

FERRYBANK FRAMEWORK PLAN

The Chief Executive’s Report on the submissions to the Ferrybank Framework Plan was presented to a meeting of Kilkenny County Council in December. The material alterations to the draft plan were put on public display from 30th January. A copy is available in Ferrybank Library. There is a four week period for submissions until Friday, 27th February.

MULLINAVAT

SENIOR FOOTBALL

A little bit of history was made last Friday night when Mullinavat played its first home competitive match under floodlights. They were convincing winners over O’Loughlin Gaels, winning 2-13 to 0-08 in round 2 of the Kilkenny Senior (Group C) League. This winning eleven-point victory got 2026 off to a good start for the local team. A Brian Phelan goal was the highlight of the first half when the wind assisted visitors did pose a threat almost matching Mullinavat’s points tally. The teams went in at the break with Mullinavat ahead 1-7 to 0-6. he third quarter score of 1-4 for Mullinavat went unanswered by O’Loughlins. The goal came from a Conor Walsh close range effort. All five substitutes got a chance to contribute to the game as Mullinavat ran out worthy winners on a bitterly cold evening. Scorers for Mullinavat were Michael Malone (0-5, 3 frees), Tom Aylward (0-3, 1 free), Brian Phelan (1-1), Conor Walsh (1-0), Padraic Gahan, James Culleton, Conor Duggan, Ian Duggan (0-1 each). Mullinavat: Jack Walsh, Simon Aylward, Joe Fennelly, Sean Fitzpatrick, Paudie Gahan, Ger Malone, Fiachra Knox, Mick Malone, Thomas Aylward, Conor Walsh, James Culleton, Ian Mansfield, Liam Fennelly, Brian Phelan, Conor Duggan. Substitutes: Ian Duggan for James Culleton, John Walsh for Fiachra Knox, Shane Kelly for Sean Fitzpatrick, Eoin Dempsey for Paudie Gahan, David Maher for Conor Duggan.

CARDIAC SCREENING

Mullinavat GAA club has arranged with Advanced Medical Services for Cardiac Screening to be available in the Community Centre from 9.30am to 5.00pm on Saturday, 21st February and Saturday, 28th February. It costs €80 per person. Booking is necessary. To book please check the QR Code on the Mullinavat GAA Club webpage or ring 0818 333 120.

MULLINAVAT MATTERS

A general meeting of Mullinavat Matters will be held in the Library in Mullinavat Community Centre at 8.00pm on Thursday, 26th February. All are welcome to attend.

RAMBLING HOUSE

The Community Centre will host its monthly Rambling House at 8.00pm on Saturday, 21st February. Everyone is welcome to attend an evening of music, song, recitation, stories and dance.

TABLE QUIZ

Piltown Community Centre will host a table quiz in aid of Parish Funds at 8.00pm on Friday, 27th February. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcome.

COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL FACILITIES CAPI-

TAL GRANT SCHEME

Kilkenny County Council has opened this grant scheme for community-based projects. Grant funding is at the rate of 90% of the cost of the project subject to a maximum grant of €50,000. Applicants must first contact the Community Development Officer to discuss the project and its eligibility who will then give the applicant group the application form for completion. The Community Development Officer for South Kilkenny is Lianne Kelly (056-7794345). Applications must be returned to the Community Section of Kilkenny County Council by Friday, 6th March.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Society will host a lecture by Éamon Ó Cuív on the foundation of Fianna Fáil and the early years of the party in the Parish Hall in Mullinavat Parish Hall at 8pm, this Thursday, 19th February. Everyone is welcome. Admission is €5 for those who are not members of the society.

SOUTH KILKENNY BEEKEEPERS’ ASSOCIATION

Beekeeping for beginners’ course will commence on Monday, February 23rd in Kildalton College, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny. For more information or to register your interest, please contact Damien Grant on skbkaeducation@hotmail.com

KILMACOW

POP UP GAELTACHT

Kilmacow Community Centre will host a Pop-Up

ROSEDALE SENIOR SHED

The next get-together will be at 10.00am on Thursday, 26th February in Rosedale. All welcome. Contact Claire in Rosedale on 051 885125 for details.

ARDAIRE SPRINGS

The angling centre will host an angling fair on Saturday and Sunday, 2nd and 3rd May. It will include tackle exhibits, casting demonstrations, talks and family fun. Everyone welcome.

GAELIC FOR MOTHERS AND OTHERS

Is open to all women who want to get active, have fun, and try something new in the Kilmacow area. No experience necessary—just come along, move at your own pace, and enjoy learning Gaelic Football in a relaxed, supportive group. Training takes place every Thursday night from 8–9pm in the Kilmacow Sports Complex. It’s a great chance to get out, meet new people, build fitness, and have a laugh while picking up new skills. For more information call Brid on 086 1712145. Everyone welcome. Come on give it a go!

LOCAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMME

This grant scheme is now open for applications to support community groups to carry out necessary repairs and improvements to their facilities, and to purchase equipment for example tables and chairs, tools and signage, laptops and printers, canopies and training equipment etc. An application form can be downloaded from the Kilkenny County Council website, by contacting Kelley Murphy at 056 779 4264 or by e-mailing communitygrants@ kilkennycoco.ie. The closing date for completed applications is Friday, 27th February.

CHAIROBICS

Kilmacow Community Centre hosts Chairobics every Tuesday from 11.00am to 12 noon. Everyone welcome.

OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES

The dates for this year are from 25th to 30th May. Bookings should be made through Joe Walsh Tours (01-2410800). Pilgrims who would like to travel with the Special Assisted Section accommodated at the Accueil should apply to Anna Colleton at a.colleton@cbskilkenny.ie.

MOTOR NEURON DISEASE

The annual coffee morning will be held at Tramore Golf Club from 10.30am on Tuesday, 24th February. All support welcome.

JOHNSTOWN

CHURCH NEWS

Trocaire boxes for Lent are available in the churches. This year’s appeal will help women and their families withstand the severe effects of climate change and build resilience for the next generation in Rwanda.

Gaeltacht at 12 noon next Saturday, 21st February. Everyone is welcome to come along.

KILMACOW ICA

The local guild meets in the Community Centre (Barrow Room) at 10.30am on the first Thursday each month. The next meeting will be held at 10.30am on Thursday, 5th March. New members welcome.

MOONDHARRIG PLAYERS

The Moondharrig Players will present The Field by John B. Keane, directed by Liam Hoban, in Mooncoin Parish Hall at 8.00pm from 26th to 28th February and from 6th to 8th March. Admission is €15. Everyone welcome.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 8, 11, 17 and 23. There were five Match 3 winners.

STEPS CHALLENGE

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who took part in the Irish Life GAA Steps Challenge over the past five weeks. Everyone’s commitment shone through despite some very wet and challenging conditions along the way. Together, our community covered an incredible 11,000 km, with 65 participants stepping their way through the challenge. Thanks to this effort and consistency, Kilmacow Camogie and LGFA Club placed 60th out of 363 clubs in Leinster — a fantastic achievement for the first year doing the challenge. The Club hopes that everyone will keep the steps going and continue to enjoy the benefits of staying active and is looking forward to meeting everyone again for next year’s challenge.

PARISH CHOIR

Practice is held in St. Senan’s Church from 6.00pm to 7.15pm each Wednesday. New members are welcome.

TABLE QUIZ

The next table quiz in the monthly series in the Fox’s Den will be held at 8.00pm on Monday, 2nd March in aid of the Marfan Research Foundation. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcome.

REV CANON LAR DUNPHY (RIP)

Fr. Lar, late P.P., Urlingford and a native of Bunlacken, Cullohill died peacefully in the care of the staff at Sacred Heard Nursing Home, Crosspatrick. He previously served in Killasmeestia, Camross, St. John’s Kilkenny and Glenmore. Predeceased by his brothers Liam, Jim, Mick, Paddy, John and Kieran, sisters Sheila, Mary, Kathleen, Nancy and Agnes. He is deeply regretted by his 42 nieces and nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, sisters in law Annette, Marette, Breeda and Mary, cousins, extended family, many friends and parishioners and the priests of the Diocese of Ossory. After Requiem Mass in the Church of the Assumption, Urlingford, he was laid to rest in the adjoining Churchyard.

TRACTOR RUN

There will be a Tractor Run on Sunday March 8th in Johnstown in aid of St. Kieran’s National School. Registration in the Church Car Park at 12 noon, convoy leaving the village at 2pm.€ 20 per vehicle.

CLOTHES COLLECTION

A clothes collection will be held in aid of Gathabawn National School on Saturday March 14th and 21st at the school from 10am to 4pm. Clothes, paired shoes, handbags, soft toys and curtains will be acceptable. A donation from the proceeds will be made to Lauralynn children’s hospice.

PILGRIMAGE 2026

Ossory Lourdes Pilgrimage 2026 will this year run from May 25th to 30th. All bookings through Joe Walsh Tours on 012410800. Pilgrims who would like to travel with special assisted section contact Anna Colleton at a.colleton@cbskilkenny.ie

ST. KIERAN’S HALL

Women’s wellness and self care workshop beginning Monday March 2nd from 7.to 8.30pm. Contact 0852237234

BIG WIN

Congratulations to the girls from Colaiste Mhuire who defeated Seamount College, Kinvara in the All Ireland Junior B post primary camogie semi final.

Community & GAA Notes

SPA UNITED AFC

Results; U15 boys league division 2 Eastend 0 Spa 5, U13 girls league division 1A Thomastown 3 Spa 7, U11 boys Doran Cup Freebooters 5 Spa 0, U11 boys Doran shield Spa 5 Bridge 2.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers were 2,6,14,21, there was no jackpot winner The. six match three winners were Georgia,Kyle, Dion, Amber, Evelyn Sweeney, Eugene Grehan(jnr), Maighread Curran, Willie Brennen and Mary Hughes.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to provide a wide range of supports, services, and activities for individuals and families within the local community. The Centre is a welcoming and inclusive space, offering opportunities for learning, wellbeing, and social connection for people of all ages.

One of the upcoming opportunities available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme. This free L.T.I. course will be starting soon and includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable life skills that can support employment and independence. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or make contact directly for further details and application information.

The Centre also offers weekly Maths Grinds, which are currently taking place on-site. These grinds are suitable for students preparing for the Junior Certificate as well as 5th year students and provide additional support to help build confidence and understanding in mathematics. Parents and students seeking more information are invited to contact the Centre for times, availability, and fees.

A variety of essential community services are available through the Mill Family Resource Centre. These include the provision of Senior Alert Alarms, which offer peace of mind and safety for older members of the community, as well as clothes donations for those in need. The Centre also facilitates a Youth Club, community allotments, and the Cois Nore Advice Clinic, ensuring access to practical advice and supports close to home.

Counselling services are available for both adults and teenagers, offering a confidential and supportive environment. Counselling supports include bereavement counselling, addiction support, and general counselling, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with professional guidance. In addition, Play Therapy is available for young people aged 4 years and over, providing a child-centred approach to emotional wellbeing and development.

The Centre’s Active Retirement Group meets every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm. This group offers a relaxed and social setting where members can enjoy activities, conversation, and companionship. New members are always welcome, and the group continues to grow as a valued part of the Centre’s weekly programme.

The Youth Club has now returned and takes place every Wednesday from 5pm to 6.30pm. It is open to boys and girls aged 8 to 12 years, and new members are always encouraged to join. The club provides a safe, fun, and supervised space for young people to socialise, take part in activities, and build friendships. For further details, please contact Sue at the Centre.

Community gardening is also supported through

the Centre’s allotments, with free beds available in the polytunnels for anyone interested in growing their own produce. The cost is just €15 per year, making it an affordable and rewarding activity. Those interested should get in touch with the Centre.

Finally, there is an open invitation to any men interested in setting up a Men’s Shed in the area. This initiative would provide a valuable social and practical outlet, and anyone interested is asked to contact Sue at the Mill Family Resource Centre on 056 883 8466.

For more information on any of the services or activities available, please contact the Centre directly.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

FUNERAL MINISTRY TRAINING

The final round of Funeral Ministry training will be available in Tipperary Town on March 5th, 11th and 18th. Anyone from any parish in the diocese who would like to avail of this opportunity to train for this ministry are invited to let their local parish priest know and for registration. Venue has yet to be decided as this will depend on numbers attending.

CASHEL AND EMLY ARCHDIOCESAN

The pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from June 12th, (five nights) led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. For information and booking contact Joe Walsh Tours @ 01 2410800. Assisted pilgrims contact Fr Joe Tynan, 087 2225445, New Helpers contact Jacqueline 089 4913351. Email lourdespilgrimage@ cashel-emly.ie

GLENGOOLE COMMUNITY GROUP

A Table Quiz will take place in Buddy Brennan’s, Glengoole this Friday 20th February at 9.30pm in aid of the Loop Walk. Table of 4 €20. All are welcome.

THURLES DRAMA SOCIETY

Thurles Drama Society proudly present Brian Friel’s acclaimed play in the Source Arts Centre, Thurles next Monday 23rd February at 7.15pm. Join us for an unforgettable evening of theatre as Thurles Drama Society brings this much-loved Irish classic to the stage. A cheese and wine reception will take place before the performance. Tickets are €20 and available from Ballysloe School. All proceeds from the night will go towards supporting our small two-teacher school in Ballysloe, helping to sustain education at the heart of our local community. A wonderful night of drama, hospitality and community spirit all for a very worthy cause.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Arts and Crafts classes in Gortnahoe Hall started Tuesday 3rd February from 9.45 to 11.45am for 5 weeks. €25 for the full block. Contact Millennium Family Resource Centre to book – 083 1008075

DANCE CLASSES

Dance Classes Step it out with Sally—Learn to Jive, Foxtrot, Waltz, Quickstep and Line Dance. Group lessons, no partner needed. Every Thursday at 8.30pm. €10, pay as you go. Contact Sally 087 7931308

IN OUR HANDS

“Preserving Thurles Cathedral” fundraising campaign to support the re-roofing project by donating towards the cost of the slates. Brochures in Church porches.

PILATES WITH RUTH

Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. It was great to see some extra people coming from the parish. New support is always appreciated.

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 Dick Purcell, Ballysloe who won €296 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 February is in aid of Grange Badminton Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CONAHY

CONFIRMATION

Congratulations to all the boys and girls in 5th and 6th class in Clinstown N.S., Conahy N.S and Lisnafunchion N.S who received the Sacrament of Confirmation in Conahy Church on Friday last. All in the community hope that they and their families had a very enjoyable day.

SENIOR FOOTBALL

The senior footballers started their 2026 campaign with a trip away to Mooncoin in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Senior Football League on Sunday afternoon last. The home side had the better of the exchanges in the opening half and led by 1-7 to 0-3 at half-time. Conahy tried their best and did manage to raise two green flags during the second half, despite being short a number of players. Yet there was no doubt that Mooncoin were the stronger side as the second half progressed. Conahy did get a third goal with the final play of the game, but Mooncoin were deserving victors in the end, winning by 2-13 to 3-4.

Conahy next play host to Thomastown in their second league game this Saturday at 3.00 in Jenkinstown.

GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB MEMBERSHIP

2026 Membership for Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club is now available to purchase via Clubzap or via the club’s website www.conahyshamrocks.com . The various membership rates are also outlined in both locations. Club members, particularly players, are encouraged to pay membership fees in a timely manner.

FAMILY FUN RUN

Many thanks to everyone who supported the Conahy Shamocks GAA and Camogie Club Family Fun Run event on Sunday last. It was a great community event, and fortunately the weather was lovely throughout. A particular thanks to all who helped in organising the event and donated food for refreshments for all the runners and walkers afterwards.

GAA CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 19, 35 and 40. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Willie Flynn, Toddy Lacey, Phil Cass, Shay Healy and the Hennessy Family (Toor). The promoter prize winners were Nora Delaney, Seamus Óg Brennan and David Maher. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS

Evening Book Club - On Tuesday February 24th from 6.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., join the evening book club, where this month, the choice is “The Optician of Lampedusa” by Emma Jane Kirby. If you would like to meet fellow readers, enjoy new book recommendations and explore new authors then do join. Design your own Bookmark - On Saturday February 21st from 11.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m., help us celebrate Ireland Reads Day by creating your very own bookmark! All materials will be provided, just bring your imagination and enjoy a fun creative day out at the library for all the family, no booking required! If you want to find out about more events at your local Library, visit www.kilkennylibrary.ie to find more information.

NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD

ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA

Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat. Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@ gmail.com Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory.ie Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie Peter Hoyne (NewmarketRetired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492

MASS TIMES

Aghaviller Parish, Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: VigilSaturday at 6.30p.m.

GUIDELINES FOR LENTEN PENANCE

Abstaining from meat or some other food on Fridays; Abstaining from alcoholic drink or smoking; Making a special effort at involvement in Family Prayer; Visit to the Blessed Sacrament; Making the Stations of the Cross; Helping the poor, the sick, the old or lonely.

PRAY FOR

Fr. Lar Dunphy: Retired Parish Priest of Urlingford Anniversary Masses: Bernard Cuddihy, Ballinteskin. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 21st. February 8.00p.m. Paddy Joe Rohan, Ballinteskin; Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 22nd. February 10.00a.m.

PARISH CONTRIBUTIONS

The Church Door Contributions on last weekend amounted to €560.00. Thank You.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS

Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Fintan Fanning. Tel: 085 802 1633. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche. FIRST PENANCE 2026

For Stoneyford School on Wednesday 18th. March in Stoneyford Church at 7.00p.m.

ROTA (FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT)

Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Raggett, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power: Sunday 10.00a.m Deirdre O’Shea. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Margaret Kenneally. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Crowley. OSSORY PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES 2026: Pilgrimage will take place this year from May 25th. to May 30th. Early booking is advisable as space is limited. All bookings should be made through Joe Walsh Tours by calling 01 2410 800 or by post to JWT, 89 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2, Special Assisted/ Sick Pilgrims who would like to travel should apply to Anna Colleton at a.colleton@cbskilkenney.ie. Acceptance for travel with the special section for the sick is subject to the approval of the Pilgrimage Medical Board.

STONEYFORD SCHOOL

The school is now taking enrolments for September. 2026. Please contact 056 772 8393 FOROIGE YOUTH CLUB: An expression of interest is sought from any adults interested in volunteering with a Foroige Youth Club in Hugginstown, Please contact Aidan 086 067 4485 or Mary 087 212 8834.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 9th. February 2026. Numbers: 17; 14; 09; 24. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner. €30.00. Winners: Seamus Murphy, Lismatigue; John Woods, “On-Line”; Margaret Farrell, Owing; Jimmy Sheehan, Stonecarthy; Teresa Fitzgerald, Hugginstown. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Deirdre Rohan; John Power; Tommy Hoyne.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A Lecture on “Fianna Fáil - its Foundation and Early Years” will be given by Éamon Ó Cuív on Thursday, 19th. February at 8.00p.m. in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church). All are welcome. ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE

Call for local organisations to join this year’s St. Patrick’s Day parade! As part of the ongoing celebrations of St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny, organisers are calling for local community groups and clubs to be part of the celebration in this year’s grand parade on March 17th. All application https://stpatricksfestivalkilkenny.com/participate/ by Friday, February 20th.

8.30pm. Please support. All are welcome.

High fielding under lights as Mullinavat played O’Loughlin Gaels in Mullinavat on Friday, 13th February.

Deise to provide stern test of Cats credentials

Lyng seeks a second win ahead of a trio of tricky tests

BY NIALL SHERRY

EDITOR

Allianz Hurling League Roinn 1A

Kilkenny vs Waterford UPMC Nowlan Park, Sunday @ 1:45pm

Referee: Sean Stack (Dublin)

Kilkenny welcome Waterford to UPMC Nowlan Park this weekend in Round 4 of the National League, knowing they need to get back to winning ways in Division 1A. Having played two games so far this campaign, Derek Lyng will know that his charges need to move up the table to avoid getting dragged into ‘relegation talk’. Having got off to a winning start at home to Offaly, the Noresiders most recently travelled to TUS Gaelic Grounds in Limerick where John Kiely’s outfit triumphed, winning out by seven points. The visit of old foes Waterford provides the men in black and amber with an opportunity to get back to winning ways, but the challenge of the Deise will ensure that any victory will be hard earned.

As Round 4 gets underway, Cork are the only unbeaten side in Division 1A, impressing in their three games to date. Sunday’s opponents have secured two wins so far, claiming the scalps of the Faithful County and more notably, Limerick. Defeat on the road in Round 1 on Leeside by some 14 points, could have derailed Peter Queally’s team, but they

have bounced back well, and won’t hold any fear when taking to the Nowlan Park turf on Sunday. If I was a betting man, I’d wager on the return of some of the Ballygunner contingent for this weekend’s game on Noreside. Adding a sprinkling of stardust in the shape of Dessie Hutchinson, Ian Kenny, perhaps a Mahony or two will further strengthen this Deise side.

Reuben Halloran has impressed for Queally’s side, punishing any ill-discipline from placed balls, the De La Salle player notched 0-11 in the win over The Treaty, and ran up an eye-catching 1-12 in the stuttering win over Offaly, both wins gained in the home surroundings of Azzurri Walsh Park. In the absence of the All-Ireland club players, other names have stepped up and helped drive Waterford on. Abbeyside’s Conor Prunty and Charlie Treen, two such players that have put it decent shifts this season. Dungarvan’s Darragh Lyons has been getting through mountains of work in the engine room, while Fourmilewater duo, Jamie and Tom Barron have brough plenty of energy to the Deise. Another De La Salle player to catch the eye is defender Conor Keane, who loves to pluck the sliotar out of the sky and alongside Lismore’s Iarlaith Daly really anchored their side to the win over Johnny Kelly’s Offaly side, indeed Keane was rightly named player of the match. The last big meeting between these two rivals came during the pandemic, late November 2020, an AllIreland Semi Final under the lights of Croke Park. Brian Cody’s Kilkenny fancied to make another decider, started well and led at the short whistle, by 7 points. An astonishing second-half

comeback by Liam Cahill’s Waterford saw them catch the Cats and win out by four, thanks to majors from two players that are likely to feature this weekend, Stephen Bennett and Darragh Lyons. Ballysaggart’s Bennett would finish his evenings work with a personal tally of 1-10 and go on to be that season’s top scorer in the championship. On the losing side that day, TJ top scored, while Eoin Cody and Mossy Keoghan also featured. This years nominated Kilkenny captain, TJ Reid is yet to feature, could Sunday provide an opportunity for the Shamrocks Ballyhale man to shake off the cobwebs?

Manager Derek Lyng has plenty to ponder ahead of the Round 4 clash. Having come up short against one Munster opponent already in Limerick, Leinster kingpins Kilkenny will want to lay down a marker and build confidence ahead of some much more difficult

Noreside. The loss of the country’s top full back, Huw Lawlor has certainty been felt by his intercounty teammates. Mikey Carey has been the player that has attempted to fill the void left by the O’Loughlin’s giant and the Young Irelands clubman hasn’t let anyone down, but it does limit the attacking threat that Carey possesses. We did see Shamrocks Darragh Corcoran get a few minutes on the edge of the square, but again his dynamism is surely better utilised in the half back line, where his scoring threat is a muchneeded weapon. A couple of players perhaps more suited to the No.3 jersey are Padraic Moylan and Ivan Bolger. The former has already captained the U20 side to All-Ireland glory and has seen more minutes at senior level than the latter. Graignamanagh’s Bolger is highly rated, but less experienced at this level, but will only get this exposure

ACL injury, Rory Garrett has been used at corner back in 2026. The Fenian’s player has done quite well, but you get the feeling that manager Lyng will want more experience in that role come championship time. Glenmore’s Shane Murphy will hope to get more minutes this weekend, having impressed early season, while his older brother Eoin will have been keenly watching the performances of Lisdowney’s Aidan Tallis who has shown his quality thus far. As mentioned earlier, TJ is doing his own preparation, ahead of his return to the stripes, while clubmate Adrian Mullen will add serious quality and class to the Cats team once he is fit. We did see the briefest of cameos from Fionan Mackessy recently, and the former Kerry star will again, add quality and more physicality to Lyng’s panel. Jordan Molloy and Cian Kenny put in a decent shift in midfield against The Treaty, and the latter shared free

taking duties with Eoin Cody also. That brings us nicely to the former captain and two-time young hurler of the year who has been a shining star in the black and amber this season. The Shamrocks Ballyhale man has covered every blade of grass on each pitch played on as he strives to deliver for the Cats. It is clear for all to see how much Cody is determined to write a new, successful chapter for Kilkenny, but he cannot do this alone.

The Waterford clash is crucial, crucial for points on the board, crucial for player confidence, and crucial for supporters’ belief. Heading into a home game against Ben O’Connor’s Cork with 4 points in the bag would be better than two; ahead of trips west to Galway and Liam MacCarthy holders Tipperary. Let’s hope the Kilkenny supporters pack into UPMC Nowlan Park and get right behind Lyng’s men on Sunday.

Last man! Aidan Tallis

Mossy Keoghan will hope to goal again on Sunday

Mikey Carey has been minding the square

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Notice of Significant Further Information

I, Liam Dalton, shall lodge Significant Further Information to Planning Application P25/60420 The Application will now include

(1)The Retention of demolition of Storm Damaged Shed as per Item 1(a) of Further Information request of 03.09.2025 Revised Plans and Details of 1 and 2 above shall be provided with response to above Further Information Request. The Significant Further Information may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information/Additional Plans may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 2 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Public Notice except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation 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.

Liam Dalton

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Bridget Hickey and Joanne Cushen intend to apply to the above named authority for planning permission to construct a slatted undergound effluent tank adjacent to existing suckler house also lean to type building covering this tank joined onto existing building together with all associated site works at Courtna Boughla, Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:- Bridget Hickey/Joanne Cushen

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Butler and McBride Limited, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for material alterations and change of use of an existing commercial premises to short-term let accommodation comprising of (1) part of the Ground Floor level of No.49 John Street Upper and the First Floor level of No.49 John Street Upper (2) the Ground & First floor levels of No.50 John Street Upper (3) the First floor level over commercial units 51/52 John Street Upper (Kilkenny Shopping Mall) and all associated site works at No’s 49 - 52 John Street Upper, Kilkenny.

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

Signed: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Gerry and Mary O’Brien, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Permission to retain indefinitely (1) the conversion of the rear yard to internal shop space (2) conversion of the attic space to first floor offices/storage and staff welfare facilities ancillary to the existing shop use (3) 5 no. rooflights and (4) all associated site works at Unit 3 (formally O’Brien’s Butchers), Market Yard, St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny R95 RP21.

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

Signed: Brendan Moore Architects, 38 St. Kieran’s Street, Kilkenny, 087 4120718.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Retention Permission is sought for minor revisions to the rear extension and alterations permitted under planning permission 24/60337. The revisions include the layout of the single storey rear extension with adjustments to the external doors and windows and for relocation of the first floor shower room located at 22 Talbotsinch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny which is a Protected Structure with reference C217 and is located in the Talbotsinch Architectural Conservation Area.

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

Applicant: Patricia Duffe

NORAH GARGAN 15TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Norah Gargan,late of 4 Parnell Street, Kilkenny who died on 18th February 2011

In Memory of a wonderful Mam

On this very special day We’ll shed a silent tear And think of you, as usual And wish you were still here

Because although days like this Aren’t supposed to be so sad They’re always a reminder Of the happy times we had

And just how much we miss you For your heart was kind and true And when we needed someone We could always count on you

You were one in a million

And we know that we were blessed

To have you as a Mam

For you simply were the best.

Miss you Mam

Martin Ryan who died on 2nd February 2026.

Predeceased by his parents Richard and Josephine, aunt Bridie, his brother Paul and sister Gerardine.

Sadly and greatly missed by his wife and children, siblings Richard, Phyllis, Frances and Anne as well as cousins, nieces and nephews and his many friends.

R.I.P.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. L.W.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. B.H.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. N.D.

MARTIN RYAN