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That Cuppa Coffee In moderation, will ward off dementia  Page 18

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Carey warned by judge The former Kilkenny hockey player Catriona Carey, embroiled in an alleged mortgage scam, must appear before court on motoring charges or a bench warrant for her arrest will be issued, a judge has warned. Convicted fraudster Carey (43) did not appear in person at Kilkenny District Court recently to face the charges of driving without insurance or

a licence on December 10 last in a 202KK registered BMW 420. Further motoring charges were also due to be put to her at that court appearance. Now, a new date, Monday, May 23, has been set. The charges are under the Road Traffic Act. At the time of the offences, Carey had accumulated 12 penalty points for two offenc-

es of speeding and two offences of driving while holding a mobile phone. These resulted in her being disqualified from driving for six months from November 8, 2021 to May 8, 2022. But when the case was called, a solicitor told Judge Geraldine Carthy that Carey had been in touch with his office by email but there appeared to be some confusion

about who was representing her. Judge Carthy told him that Carey was to be before her on Monday, May 23 or a bench warrant would be issued. Carey, with an address at Weir View Hill in Co Kilkenny, has been accused of scamming more than 30 people out of thousands of euro after offering to buy debt from their lenders at a discount.

She runs a company called Careysfort Asset Estates, which is registered in the UK and has been the subject of multiple complaints to gardaí. RTÉ Investigates has reported how around €400,000 from clients of her company was paid into the company account but in February just €488.10 remained. Gardai investigations are ongoing.

Called to the bar... Kilkenny publicans have been urged to sign up to the first ever apprenticeship to train a new generation of bar managers, launched to tackle the crippling shortage of hospitality staff. Pictured are Shane O’Keefe and Emma Hanley (front) with Cathal Callinan, Dylan Naughton and Callan Cummins at the launch of the apprenticeship programme Photo Eamon Ward Full story, Page 10

It’s a heady brew at Abbey Quarter It was an exciting day for the people of Kilkenny with the official opening of the public realm surrounding the Brewhouse building on the Abbey Quarter, namely Horse Barrack Lane and The Brewhouse Square by Minister Darragh O’ Brien, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage. Speaking at the event, Cathaoirleach Fidelis Doherty said: “I EVERY FRIDAY

am delighted to be here today for this public viewing of what is a game changing Phase 1 of a €200 million regeneration project for Kilkenny City, enhancing the entire area for both local people and visitors. Following the decision by Diageo Ireland in 2012 to close the Smithwick’s Brewery, Kilkenny County Council agreed to purchase the 10.9 acre site of the former brewery.

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“This is a special site that is rich in history located beside the River Nore with a view of the 12th century Kilkenny Castle and overlooked by St. Canice’s Cathedral and along Ireland’s Medieval Mile. “The challenge in developing this site has been to respect the work of past generations while allowing ourselves the opportunity to meet the needs of future

generations,” Cllr Doherty said. Phase 1 of the Abbey Quarter development includes the Riverside Garden, Skateboard Park, Horse Barrack Lane, Brewhouse Square, the 19 Century Tea Houses, Mayfair Building as the new City Library and the Brewhouse Building for office use. The development of the Riverside Garden including the Skate-

board Park along the river front provide an area of high quality green infrastructure in the city centre. Phase 2 of the project will include the development of a new Urban Street & Park, which will open up access to facilitate the development of new buildings on the site, with the first two of these buildings to be developed during Phase 2.

Childcare crisis as schools to close A childcare crisis is losing as more than 260 providers of private childcare have warned they may have to close their doors after accusing the Government of squeezing them out of the sector. Businesses providing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) services say they are struggling with the rising cost of inflation and will not be able to stay afloat. Full story, Page 6

Extra fuel cash ‘is not enough’ The news that the Government will provide an additional €100 payment to Fuel Allowance recipients from this week has been cautiously welcomed by Sinn Fein TD Kathleen Funchion. However, she said: “Any additional measure to support households in Kilkenny is welcome at this time, but the announced payment will only provide relief to a very limited number of households.” Full story, Page 22

Income protection

Income protection is the most tax efficient means to provide an income should you become ill or have an accident and be unable to ear, writes our Financial Advisor. John Ellis, Page 16

INSIDE Paul Hopkins ....................... P8 Marianne Heron...............P12 John Ellis ...........................P16 Health & Science..............P18 Travel & Leisure ...............P19 Gerry Cody....P20-21, 40-41 & 44 Food & Drink.....................P42 TV & Streaming ...............P43 Sport............................. P48 - 49

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Aimee and the darling buds of May... Aimee Moore from Callan, Co. Kilkenny (pictured) has a wealth of horticulture, garden design and landscaping experience. With more than 14 years in various roles as a horticulturist, Aimee is very well known and admired in the industry. Having recently established her own business, Botanical Graphics by Aimee, she has just featured in the latest episode of Super Garden on RTÉ1, now available on the RTE Player.. One of five budding designers to take part in this brand new series, Aimee and her fellow competitors will battle it out to secure a coveted showgarden spot at Ireland’s premier garden festival, Bord Bia’s ‘Bloom’. Riverside in Kells, Co Meath is the location of the popular series. A new social housing development built by Meath County Council is home of the year for this year’s recruits. Designers

from all across the county have been selected and each given an identical garden in the estate as their blank canvas to create the perfect show garden for the residents. Each designer was given two weeks to design and three weeks to build their show gardens. They also received a budget of €15,000 which includes €5,000 for Irish grown planting. “I am thrilled to be part of such an iconic show, Super Garden is a dream come true and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience,” Aimee Moore told The Kilkenny Observer. “It is a remarkable opportunity and a wonderful launchpad for my business Botanical Graphics, where my bespoke designs incorporate hard landscaping elements, such as boundaries, paving, paths and patios and soft landscaping elements with a focus on colour schemes, varied flowering times and winter structure. “I like to concentrate on a planting scheme that suits both the space and the client whilst ensuring year-round interest,” she said. Although Aimee had to remain tight lipped on the design until after the show aired, she was quick to point out that it would not have been possible without the support of her family and friends. The only question remaining is, how did Aimee’s design and build go? Check out the RTE Player to find out!

Lecture on history of Lachtain The history and architecture of St Lachtain’s iconic HibernoRomanesque church doorway will be outlined in a lecture to be given at the church in Freshford this Friday, May 20 at 7.00 pm. Titled ‘The History and Architecture of St Lachtain’s Church and Doorway’ the lecture will be delivered jointly by speakers Ms Margaret Quinlan, architect for the most recent church renovation, and D. Rachel Moss of Trinity College. Ms Quinlan is a conservation architect, RIAI accredited, with many years of experience in historic buildings. Her practise prepared the Conservation Plan for St Lachtain’s Church of Ireland, published in 2004, and for a range of other projects. Dr Moss is Head of Department and Associate Professor, History of Art and Architecture at Trinity College, Dublin. She has a particular interest in medieval sculpture and was the art history expert on the St Lachtain’s conservation plan team. She is editor and principal author of Medieval – Volume 1 of the RIA Art and Architecture of Ireland series. This lecture is one of a series held throughout this year to celebrate more than 1400 years of worship on this site and to commemorate the death of St. Lachtain which occurred in the year 622 A.D. Admission is free.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Childcare crisis: schools to close A childcare crisis is losing as more than 260 providers of private childcare have warned they may have to close their doors after accusing the Government of squeezing them out of the sector. Businesses providing Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) services say they are struggling with the rising cost of inflation and will not be able to stay afloat.

Working from home will save you up to €1,400 Workers can save more than €1,400 a year by working from home, new Government research has suggested. The findings, published by Tánaiste Leo Varadkar, show that working from home is more environmentally friendly. While heating costs would increase by around €79 and electricity by €30 on average, eliminating €413 of car commuting costs alone would see remote workers €304 better off. A total of €1,103 could be earned from working during the time it takes to travel to and from work. Remote workers will see a €43 increase in their gas heating bills per year, a €104 increase for households that use oil or a €128 increase for households that use electric central heating, which works out as an average of €79. The research shows that working from home could save up to €7.6m for the State by removing 164,407 tonnes of CO2 a year. Cutting out car commuting would offset increases in household emissions from using more heating oil or electricity. The research also shows that businesses could save nearly €1,500 per worker if they gave up office spaces. A reduction in office costs across the economy would save employers more than €313m. The research is expected to dictate future government working from home policies and was produced by the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service, the civil service research body. The study also suggests that remote working would improve working conditions for people with disabilities and for carers. CSO research has previously shown that employees who begin to work from home have more time on their hands to do household chores, exercise and spend time with family and friends. Mr Varadkar has previously said that new legislation on the right to request remote working and to disconnect will make working from home a part of “normal life”.

The Government’s €221m Core Funding programme is due to come into effect in September, but money will only be given to providers who freeze their fees. However, with the cost of electricity, heating and insurance a major issue, small operators fear the funding will not be enough to save them. Montessori schools offer both

the National Childcare Scheme (NCS) and Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme, meaning the State pays a set amount for each child in return for the pre-schoolproviding a pre-school service free of charge. However, providers are spending hours on end doing unpaid administrative work, she said. The Federation of Early Child-

hood Providers (FECP) said a survey of more than 1,000 of its members suggests one in 20 were planning to close next year. It said the situation was even worse when it came to providers of ECCE, with 7.5% planning to close. FECP chairperson Elaine Dunne said ECCE services had seen no rise in capitation since 2018 and only a small increase

in funding. Services receive €69 a child per week, or €4.30 an hour. Ms Dunne said many providers felt pressured to agree to the terms of the core funding programme due to the financial implications of not signing up for it. “While the organisation acknowledges there are ambitious and progressive elements to the

plan, inadequate funding issues and the general approach to implementing it has irked members. The FECP survey data is a strong signal that a significant number of services are struggling,” she said. In a statement, the Department of Children said: “There is no evidence to suggest services will face closure as a result of the new Core Funding.”

Whopping 83% worry about rising costs Recent research by askpaul.ie shows that the rising cost of living in Ireland is causing a large proportion of adults to worry about their financial future. Of those surveyed, 83% said they were worried about their financial future, with children’s education costs, starting a family and getting out of debt with listed as some of the reasons for this worry. This month, it was announced that annual inflation in Ireland had reached an almost 22-year high of 7% in April, with experts warning

that inflation could reach as high as 9% in the coming months. When asked by askpaul.ie what living costs they were currently struggling to meet at present, one in four noted mortgage or rent. This was closely followed by socialising (eating / dining out) at 18%, while 12% of respondents said transport (such as fuel) are costs which they are finding it hard to meet due to the rising cost of living. With Irish people clearly feeling the pinch at present, askpaul.ie also asked what living costs they have

considered cutting of late. To this, a large proportion, 43%, said they planned to cut back on socialising, while one in 10 said that mortgage or rent costs were something they have been reviewing as a way to cut costs. Paul Merriman, CEO, askpaul & Pax Financial said: “Up to 83% of adults are struggling with the cost of living, and this is only the start. I think the mortgage interest rates are going to start going up, as the European Central Bank is going to increase the mortgage interest rate

by at least 0.25% in the next quarter, if not by the end of this year. “This is going to put massive pressure on homeowners as this will be followed by four to five other interest rate increases, which means by the end of 2023, we’re expecting interest rates to be increased by approximately 1 – 1.5%,” he said. “If you’re a variable & a tracker rate mortgage holder this means your mortgage repayments are going up, on top of the increased energy cost and carbon tax, and on top of the cost-of-living increase.”

‘Love Your Coast’ photo contest is now open Clean Coasts’ 13th annual Love Your Coast photography competition has official opened for entries! The Love Your Coast competition asks for amateur photographers to capture and celebrate the uniqueness of our coastal communities, environments, or waterways such as its stunning coastline, beautiful beaches, epic cliff faces, and raging rivers.

While Ireland has some of the most spectacular coastlines in the world there is no doubt that the rivers, lakes and waterways of Kilkenny deserve to be photographed in all of their beauty. We encourage people to pick up their cameras and explore what Kilkenny has to offer this summer, or, embrace the warmer months and travel out to your nearest beach to capture a snapshot!

Last Year, 15 images scored top places in the competition with Declan Roche’s image from the Wildlife and Underwater category, entitled Let Me Out (taken at the Wexford Harbour) winning the overall Love Your Coast title for 2021. Photographers have until 9 am on Monday, August 29 to submit their best images in one of five categories to be in with the chance to win a prize

fund of €5,000 across all categories. The categories for this year include: 1. Wildlife and Underwater 2. Coastal Landscape 3. People and the Coast 4. Coastal Heritage 5. Creativity and the Coast Each year Love Your Coast draws in a large amount of interest from

Ireland’s amateur photographers, coastal enthusiasts, and conservation and biodiversity-minded. Clean Coasts have ensured there is a diverse range of categories so there truly is something for everyone! Photographers are encouraged to explore new and different methods and angles in capturing the coastal regions and wildlife and would dis-

courage photographing of locations and species that have been heavily submitted in previous years. *To find out more about the competition and how to enter go to https://cleancoasts. org/our-initiatives/ love-your-coast/. Tto see a gallery of all the shortlisted top 10 images from 2021: https:// cleancoasts.exposure. co/love-your-coast-2021

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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News Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Bogged down in dealing with rising fuel poverty There I was, barely knee-high, struggling to put on my underpants on a bitterly cold winter’s morn, crouched down over the one-bar electric fire. And then walking to school, in short trousers, my knees exposed and eventually chapped. That was the norm back then. At night my dear mother threw her only, and very old, fur coat over the bed I shared with my younger brother. The frost on the windows come morning seeped into my bones as once more I crouched over the one-bar electric thingy. I was grown and long left home before my parents got oil-fired central heating installed. The winter just gone, mild as it was, I paid 70% more for my kerosene that in previous winters. It irked me to have to fork out that much but, thankfully, I could afford it. Which cannot be said of every soul on this island. Revised regulations over the cultivating and selling of turf, a la dingbat Eamon Ryan’s

proposals, are “weeks away”, the Government has admitted, despite political pressure to resolve the controversy quickly. Even when drafted, the new regulations will go to the three Government party leaders, then the Cabinet and then to the European Commission. There will be a new beltand-braces approach to safeguarding rights and the sale, distribution and gifting of turf in small-scale settings. Besides exempting geographical areas, there is expected to be explicit exclusion of turf-consumption in domestic settings. The pandemic fall-out on the global economy had seen fuel prices — and, indeed, food prices — rise as far back as October but then the onslaught on Ukraine saw fuel prices, what with EU dependance on Russian supply, go through the roof and they will continue to do so, with a now forecasted protracted war in Europe.

The mantra for many has become ‘eat or heat’. A household is considered ‘energy poor’, when that family or person living alone is unable to achieve an adequate, that is comfortable and safe, standard of warmth and energy services at an affordable cost. Energy or fuel poverty is a significant multi-dimensional socio-economic challenge. It is, alas, only now, what with Covid, Ukraine, climate change challenges, and the turf wars, that we are having any decent conversation on the subject. Research by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) in October 2020, ‘Carbon Taxes, Poverty and Compensation Options’, estimates a measure of ‘core’ energy poverty at 17.5% of households (roughly 297,500 households). Undeniably, energy poverty has significant implications for a person’s quality of life, as well as physical and, sadly, mental health and is considered by various agencies as a

standalone indicator of deprivation distinct from poverty in general. The causes of energy poverty can be attributed to three key factors: the characteristics of a dwelling (including appliances), the price of energy and the consumption habits or needs of the household. Those factors and, now with the cost of living going up and up, also the average weekly household disposable income. I am in no doubt that future levels of fuel poverty in Ireland are likely to be exacerbated by several domestic factors which may increase the vulnerability of ‘at risk’ people. What comes to mind is Ireland’s changing energy context and the prospective increase in indoor air pollutants resulting from incomplete combustion of wood-based fuels. Also, Ireland’s transition to a lowcarbon economy whereby the use of fossil fuels in the primary energy mix is switched to renewable options.

We must consider also Ireland’s existing commitments to renewable energy efficiency targets and climate action responsibilities following the publication of the Government’s Climate Action Plan last year. Our changing demographics and ageing must also be taken into account.

The mantra for many has become ‘eat or heat’...

More than two decades ago, agencies sat in their coats in the EHB boardroom in Dublin, rubbing their hands to get warm. The thermometer registered 52 degrees, ie. danger of hypothermia. The heating had been turned off to bring home to those gathered what fuel poverty felt like. Let’s not mince words. Research here has shown that people aged over 65 are seven times more likely to be hospitalised as a result of frigid temperatures, compared with those aged 18 to 44. And hospitalisations in poorer communities due to cold weather are 2.5 times more common than in the more affluent neighbourhoods. On average, allegedly 2,800 die in Ireland every year from hypothermia, although this writer could not confirm this figure from Age Action. And we’re bogged down in talking about turf. For peat’s sake... I need to lie down. Again.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Revealed: 400 UFO sightings and 11 'near misses' US military aircraft have had 11 near-misses with UFOs, a top Pentagon intelligence official has told Congress. In the first public hearing of its kind for more than half a century, intelligence chiefs revealed they have recorded about 400 UFO sightings in total. That includes a flood of re-

ports in the past year as reduced stigma led to military personnel coming forward about historical incidents. Senior Pentagon officials said no evidence of extraterrestrial origins had been discovered so far, but they vowed to "go wherever the data take us" in an "all hands on deck" approach.

Scott Bray, the deputy director of Naval intelligence, told the hearing there were sightings he "can't explain" due to the "flight characteristics" or radar readings from the objects. He showed a video of one such incident, in which a fleeting, shiny, spherical object zipped past the cock-

pit window of an F-18 jet. Mr Bray said: "I do not have an explanation for what this specific object is." Asked if there had been any collisions between "US assets" and UFOs, he said: "We have not had a collision, we've had at least 11 near misses though." He said Pentagon inves-

tigators had managed to explain one of the most famous UFO sightings ever. In July 2019, green pyramidshaped objects were spotted above the USS Russell warship near California and 18 seconds of footage was leaked, becoming a fascination for UFO hunters. Mr Bray said: "We are

[now] reasonably confident these relate to unmanned aerial systems [drones] in the area." He said the triangle shapes resulted from "light passing through night vision goggles and then being recorded by a single-lens reflex camera. [It was] some type of drone".

Kilkenny can now join free youth mental health seminar Turn2Me, a national mental health charity, has secured funding from the Vhi Health and Wellbeing Fund, to deliver 20 mental health seminars for secondary students in schools in Kilkenny, Cork, Dublin, Donegal, Limerick, and Galway. The seminars will last for one hour and can be done in person via Zoom. The seminar will give students tips and tools on how to deal with anxiety, depression and exam pressures. Afterwards, the schools will be given posters and brochures which they can print out and put around the schools, and can email to their students. As these seminars will be covered by the grant, it will be totally free for schools, teachers and students. “We were delighted to secure this funding from the VHI Health and Wellbeing Fund,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said. “Already, there is a good interest in this project. We are delighted to be able to reach students and help them deal with anxiety, depression and tips on how to deal with exam pressures. Any schools interested in this project should reach out to us as soon as possible to book their slots.” Irish Youth Foundation CEO, Lucy Masterson

said: "We know that good mental and emotional health are essential in order for young people to thrive, yet the last two years have been especially difficult for them. Helping young people to strengthen their resilience and assist them in managing their anxiety is key to counteracting this." Brighid Smyth, VHI said: “Our mission is to help our customers live longer, stronger, healthier lives but we also want our local communities to have the opportunity to achieve this goal too. Through the VHI Health and Wellbeing Fund we wanted to support young people and help the organisations they engage with to provide the supports that are so critical at the moment to help them navigate this period, strengthen their resilience and manage their anxiety." Places will be given on a first come, first served basis, to schools in the aforementioned areas. If places for these seminars are filled, Turn2Me will create a waiting list. Should any teacher in Kilkenny wish to avail of these free mental health seminars, they can email Turn2Me’s Clinical Manager, Suzanne Ennis, on suzanne@Turn2Me.org to book their place.

Let's hold the new course, and have another... Kilkenny publicans have been urged to sign up to the first ever apprenticeship to train a new generation of bar managers, launched to tackle the crippling shortage of hospitality staff. The three-year degree course, backed by State and employer funding, has been officially unveiled. The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) and Griffith

College, with the support of Solas, the state agency for further education, have joined forces to reverse the pub sector’s post-Covid struggle to retain staff. A Fáilte Ireland survey released in February indicated that as many as nine out of ten hospitality businesses have problems recruiting staff, with shortages due to a lack of training.

Top celebs will entertain at Mount Juliet Leona Maguire will participate in Horizon Irish Open Pro-Am for the first time when the fun-filled curtain raiser for the island of Ireland’s national open tees off at Mount Juliet Estate next month. Maguire etched her name in golfing history earlier this year when the 27-yearold became the first Irishwoman to capture an LPGA Tour title, winning the LPGA Drive-On Championship by a three stroke margin. She will join her fellow Irish golf heroes Shane Lowry, Pádraig Harrington and Séamus Power on the

pristine fairways at the Kilkenny venue, as well as a host of celebrities from the sports and entertainment world. They include former Ireland and Manchester United footballer John O’Shea, TV personality and entrepreneur Spencer Matthews, actor James Nesbitt, rugby star Rob Kearney, Olympian Greg O’Shea and popular Today FM broadcaster Dermot Whelan, with more names to be revealed in the coming weeks. The celebrities will all take to the course at Mount Juliet Estate on Wednesday

June 29 as they participate in this year’s Horizon Irish Open Pro-Am, the traditional curtain-raiser for the main event. The historic tournament takes place at Mount Juliet Estate for the second time, but for the first time with full capacity crowds, from June 30 to July 3. Greg O’Shea, who rose to fame on Love Island, said: “I’m so excited to be taking part in this year’s Horizon Irish Open Pro-Am. I’ve been an avid golf fan for years so I’m looking forward to teeing off beside some legends of the game. My dad will be my caddie

on the day and my mum and sister will also come along so it’ll be a great family day out.” A week of entertainment for the whole family is promised with a mix of music and golf on site at Mount Juliet Estate. As well as music on the Wednesday, Limerick band Hermitage Green will kick off the weekend with a performance on Saturday, July 2. Taking to the main stage on Sunday July 3 is 17-year-old Cork singer Allie Sherlock. Both acts will take to the stage as soon as the final putt drops each evening.

Plant those seeds ... and grow yourselves! Grow It Yourself (GIY) and Energia are calling on communities across Ireland to take part in Energia Get Ireland Growing Day on Saturday, July 2. Get Ireland Growing Day is part of the Energia initiative, in partnership with GIY. This year the initiative is aiming to sow the seed of community food growing nationwide by encouraging and supporting as many individuals and groups to come together for community food growing projects of all shapes and sizes. In April 2022 the Energia Get

Ireland Growing initiative announced the giveaway of 300 community growing starter kits across Ireland worth €42,500. Using these kits, communities across Ireland are encouraged to come together to become more sustainable and connected through growing food together. For those that missed out on the kits, there are still great prizes to be won for any community group hosting a local gathering on Get Ireland Growing Day, with free resources available at getirelandgrowing.ie or by

downloading the GIY app. Speaking of the upcoming day of celebration, Founder of GIY Michael Kelly said: “We are encouraging seed exchanges, doing a pollinator walk, a forage with friends, getting together to tackle the ‘big job’ in the garden, sharing some of the food you have grown or simply a cup of tea to get to know your own food growing community better. "It is a chance to get together and realise the power of communal vision and effort.” The sponsorship manager

for Energia, Lorna Danaher, said: "The success of last year laid an amazing foundation for us to be able to further engage and build growing communities." On Get Ireland Growing Day, it is also time for participants to submit their entries to be in with the chance of winning a range of prizes. To enter, participants are asked to post a picture of their community growing projects on any social media channel and tag @EnergiaGIG while also using the hashtag #GetIrelandGrowing.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

The thing about working as a journalist is that you spend lots of time trying to have bright ideas about things to write about. Some of the ideas may not be so bright and are likely to shot down by critical editors with remarks like: “People don’t want to read about stuff like that over their cornflakes/ muesli.” Sometimes the past ideas were about things that I would really like to do: being a millionaire for a day was a good one, it involved persuading a company to lend me a helicopter, complete with pilot so that I could fly around Ireland popping in to the best hotels and restaurants with some exciting contour flying on the way. The article about emu farming – this was in South Africa – was memorable too, maybe because emus lay dark green eggs, have incredibly bad hair days and are more friendly than ostriches which are liable to kick you if they are males in the mating season. My take home from this is that it’s a good idea to aim do things that you really enjoy doing. Ideas for articles can turn into potential books, like the one I had titled The Gentle Art of Self- Management.

Creativity, and finding your everyday nugget It didn’t get written but it could have turned into one of those How To books which have lots of catchy acronyms which are meant to remind you of the ingredients you need for a happy-ever- after life. The problem is that you – well certainly I – have trouble

remembering what the letter in the acronyms stand for. Nuggets, I decided were a better idea. A nugget is a handy piece tip or advice which might be worth its weight in gold as you prospect life’s hills and valley. You can mine a whole how to

book and perhaps find just one nugget worth treasuring. The nugget approach evolved when I was training as a life coach on an assignment to coach young IT entrepreneurs. I know minus nothing about IT but the idea was to facilitate the clients

to define and reach their business goals. As well as homework after each session – they each got a nugget – I like to think these tips were useful. Sometimes other people give you a valuable nugget. I have a friend who was fond

of remarking: “I have to have my carrot.” She meant that she needed to have a daily treat, something to look forward to and a reward for getting jobs done. It works like a charm, for me anyway, the carrot doesn’t have to be anything extravagant, a cup of coffee shared , time spent in the garden or a favourite walk. Do the worst first, was another handy piece of advice, a sure cure for procrastination. The paradox about avoiding doing things is that apparently people who put things on the long finger are more stressed than those who actually tackle the task they would rather avoid. It also required more energy finding reasons to procrastinate, rather than to do the thing, and if you put it off until last you won’t have so much energy left anyhow. My late mother-in-law – not that you necessarily pay much attention to MIL views – had a good one too and that was to always do the creative things first. I really did follow that one, always writing, painting or whatever first thing in the morning, leaving routine stuff like the housework or doing the washing up until later, the kind of things that are definitely thieves of creative time. To this day I have trained myself not to see dust, generally only getting around to hoovering or dusting by the time it is dark and I really can’t see the grime.

Ten reasons pets improve mental wellbeing ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

Pets reduce anxiety: Studies have shown that playing with animals, even just for five minutes, helps fight stress hormones. This makes having a pet, particularly one you can engage with physically, a powerful aid for anxiety sufferers. Cats and dogs v depression: Serotonin and dopamine, the body’s own calming and pleasure chemicals, are increased by playing with feline or canine friends. Laughing and smiling at their cute behaviour leads to even higher levels of these ‘happiness hormones’. Animals beat stress: A study took a group of stressed adults and gave them a rabbit, a turtle, and a toy to play with. Petting the rabbit and the turtle noticeably reduced stress, whilst touching the toy didn’t have any effect. Amazingly, these same results occurred even in participants who claimed they didn’t particularly like animals. Pets build relationships:

Looking after an animal leads naturally to a relationship with it, thereby building social skills in young and old alike. Studies show children who grow up around pets have an easier time socialising with their peers than those who don’t. Pets provide a purpose: There’s a touching scene in Rocky V where Mickey tells Rocky he’s his purpose for going on with life. Looking after another human being is a powerful motivator, but this is true of caring for any other living creature. Believe it or not, even pets which don’t engage much with their carers bring these same benefits. Strange as it may seem, research showed crickets reduced loneliness in a group of elderly people. Animals teach mindfulness: Underpinning mindfulness is the idea of living in the moment. Pets do exactly this by their very nature. They neither worry about yesterday, nor fret about tomorrow, the present is their only focus. We can learn a lot from them. Pets boost our self-esteem: Psychologists at the universities of Miami and St. Louis showed, through experiments, that pets lead to better

self-esteem, increased fitness, less loneliness and more conscientious. Animals improve social lives: From pet owning clubs, to meeting other people on dog walks, to giving owners something to talk about, looking after an animal also improves your social life with other humans! Dogs reduce fear: A vulnerable person living on their own feels better with a dog around. Canine friends offer protection, as well as many other benefits. This is true not only for the pet owner, but family and friends can also feel more at ease knowing the person’s vulnerability is offset against having a dog at home. Dogs and horses increase physical fitness: Wait! What’s physical fitness doing in an article about mental wellbeing? Simple. Being healthier physically leads to better mental wellness (and vice versa). Taking dogs for walks and riding horses makes us fitter in both body and mind. That said, people are even starting to take other animals, for example cats, for walks in increasing numbers. Just make sure your feline friend is also happy with this activity!

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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News Smart phones and their accompanying mobile apps make our lives easier. We are able do things quicker and in a more efficient manner. Thanks to social media and messaging apps, we get to stay connected with our colleagues, family, and friends. Need directions to a specific destination? Want to be entertained or informed on the latest news and trends? There are apps for those too. Some apps may be causing more harm than you think. Unfortunately, certain apps could be putting your security at risk, while others could be draining or even destroying your phone’s battery. The bottom line is, it’s important to be aware of these apps so that you can make an informed decision as to whether you will delete or keep them. To find out what apps are ruining your phone, we reached out to tech and security experts and here’s apps that pose a problem. 1. Facebook With almost three billion users as of January 2022, one of the biggest social media platforms in the world may just be an app you’d want to avoid using. Facebook always runs in the background as it requires access to most things on your phone like photos and contacts. This makes it one of those apps which consumes the highest storage space, clogging up your phone with junk. As an alternative, you can opt to use Facebook through a desktop browser. That way you’ll save battery and your phone can perform at its optimal capacity. 2. Snapchat All those filters may seem cute, but in the greater scheme of things, Snapchat is really zapping your phone’s battery. It is quite bad for your phone’s battery health. The numerous notifications that you receive can alone suck out your iPhone’s battery in a go. Besides, it uses a location tracking service that runs in

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4. FaceTime This video conferencing app has proven itself to be very useful, especially during times, like the early pandemic, when physically hanging out is limited. However, there are bugs and performance problems with Apple’s FaceTime application, a fact wellknown in the industry. Attackers may eavesdrop on the receiver’s smartphone and hear anything the user is saying into the device’s microphone due to a notable flaw in this programme. While dealing with this bug, Apple recognised another problem in the FaceTime app itself — part of the same set of vulnerabilities. This bug had to do with Live Photos, though Apple did not release details about this problem. Several users have reported having difficulty placing FaceTime calls, as well as occasional call dropouts. Similar to the other apps previously mentioned, FaceTime also drains your battery for it to become less efficient over time.

The 5 apps doing more harm than good to your smartphone Tech experts say certain apps could be putting your security and privacy at risk the background all the time. In turn, draining your battery and killing your iPhone’s efficiency slowly.

3. WhatsApp If you’re trying to save space on your iPhone, WhatsApp might be an app you’d want to get rid of. It is one of those

utility apps that leaves your phone dry filled with cache files and phone junk. It becomes an enemy to storage optimisation.

5. Google Maps A good navigation app is definitely an essential to any mobile phone. Sadly, Google Maps is a surefire way to dwindle your smartphone battery down to nothing in no time at all, if your phone is an iPhone. The iPhone just isn’t designed with Google Maps in mind, and vice versa. Of course a Google-made smartphone will run Google Maps better. Google Maps uses a large amount of data, processing power, and battery. It puts you at risk in such a way that it grabs business information, looks for your location, and many more. If you really must use Google Maps, try disabling the app when you don’t need it. Unless necessary, only then should you consider bringing it back.

While these Apps collect your most personal data Fed up with your favourite apps grabbing your personal data and selling it to third parties? Take a look at these privacy-focused options. A study has concluded that social media and food delivery apps sell the most personal data to third-party advertisers. But a recent survey showed that four out of five people don’t want their personal data collected or shared without their permission. If you’re sick of invasive data collection, what are your best options? Surfshark compared the data collection activities of 200 apps to find out which services harvest the most

data in a given category and which apps leave your data alone. The study looked at 18

app categories and found that the more popular an app, the more data it is likely to collect

Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger — all owned by the same company, Meta — col-

lect all 32 segments of personal data that Apple’s App Store flags. Less-invasive options include the audio-first Clubhouse social media app. Cisco WebEx Meetings and disappearing-messages app Dust are great alternatives for business and personal use, because neither service collects any data. If you’re looking for privacy while searching the web, reading email, or streaming video, you should avoid Google’s products. Chrome takes 13 points of data, Gmail collects 19, and YouTube grabs a colossal 24. Instead, use alternatives Brave or Firefox Focus

— or a private browsing window — and paid email service Spike, and Popcornflix or Kanopy for streaming video. Looking at financial apps? PayPal takes a whopping 26 points of data compared with MoneyGram’s mere eight. Mint also gobbles up 21 points of data, while Mvelopes collects no data at all. Cryptominers, avoid Coinbase and its 18 data points: Choose Crypto Pro instead, which collects only personal identifiers. Most food-delivery apps collect 24 points of data apiece. Instead of shopping on Amazon, which collects 26 points of data, try Etsy, which gobbles up only 12.

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Ukraine Invasion The surprise of Ukraine’s resilience in the wake of Russia’s invasion and the former’s determination and ability to fight back — in effect, Russia is losing the war — seems to be prompting Western leaders to expand their goals for the war in ways that may carry extraordinary risk. The earlier hope was that a robust Ukrainian defence would ensure the country’s right to exist as a sovereign and independent state while minimising the loss of territory in the south and east. But now, many political and military leaders are laying out much higher goals, backed by an unprecedented supply of military aid to Ukraine. “Ukraine’s victory is a strategic imperative for all of us,” British Foreign Secretary Liz Truss recently proclaimed. “We are doubling down. We will keep going further and faster to push Russia out of the whole of Ukraine.” Jason Crow (Democrat, Colorado), who travelled with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Democrat, California) to Kyiv, made a similar point: “The United States is not interested in stalemates. We are not interested in going back to the status quo. The United States is in this to win it.” Talk of total victory aligns well with another recently floated objective: an extended bloodletting of the Russian army. US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin asserted on April 25 that the US wants “to see Russia weakened to the degree that it can’t do the kinds of things that it has done in invading Ukraine.” And that fits with Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Mark A. Milley’s prediction that the war will turn into a “protracted conflict ... measured in years”. Yet crippling Russia’s military or expelling Russia from Ukraine are significantly more dangerous aims than preventing the further loss of Ukrainian territory or,

West now wants a fight to the end

Putin: US will keep going further and faster to push Russia out of the whole of Ukraine

through limited offensive operations, gaining some of it back. Unfortunately, if Russian President Vladimir Putin begins to think that his back is against the wall, he may lash out by directly confronting NATO, intensifying the conventional war in the east, or even using nuclear weapons. Moreover, building a Ukrainian army capable of the large-scale counteroffensives needed to expel Russia or profoundly degrade its military would almost certainly extend and intensify the war, leading to additional suffering. The sooner President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Russians can get to the peace table to arrange a deal that preserves Ukrainian sovereignty, the

better. Keep in mind that while Russia’s campaign has been horrific, it can still get much, much worse. Russia has been fighting with one hand tied behind its back, largely for domestic political reasons. In Putin’s Russia, after all, the conflict has not been described as a war but rather as a “special military operation”. But the worse the battle goes for Putin, the more he will be tempted to mobilise his society to fight it as a fullblown war, despite the political risks of calling up reservists or expanding conscription. Russia has more than three times the population of Ukraine, giving it a hardto-surmount advantage

in any war of attrition, despite Ukraine’s skilled and motivated soldiers. Ukraine should try assiduously to avoid any further mobilisation on Russia’s part, yet the West’s expanding war aims make it more likely. Even worse, Putin could turn to unconventional weapons, including low-yield nuclear weapons, to stave off defeat. Skeptics might argue that Putin is not suicidal and would never risk nuclear escalation with the West. But Russia is overwhelmingly likely to begin any nuclear escalation — or, for that matter, chemical escalation — inside Ukraine, which would put the onus on the West as to how to respond. With a handful of nuclear weapons Putin could

obliterate significant portions of the Ukrainian army, especially if conventional battles forced it to mass in a relatively small area in the east. (To presume that the architect of Bucha would blanch at using nuclear weapons against Ukraine, which cannot respond in kind, is wishful thinking.) All the new heavy weapons flowing to the Ukrainian military would not save it from destruction in this situation, to say nothing of the casualties among Ukrainian civilians. Going nuclear would be extremely dangerous for Putin. But if he believes that the West is trying to permanently weaken Russia, will never lift sanctions or even aims to topple his regime (despite

repeated denials from Western policymakers), he may become willing to roll the dice. Putin could see escalation as a way to preserve the military as the basis of both his international clout and domestic security. The longer the war continues, the higher the probability that NATO and Russia will be drawn into direct conflict — through accident or incident. Russia has every incentive to attack the coming avalanche of Western military aid to Ukraine. Such attacks could easily lead to a head-on collision between superpowers: target the NATO bases where Ukraine receives military aid and training. Such a confrontation would carry obvious nuclear risks.

A turning point for security in Europe The ruling party of Sweden has dropped the country’s historic military nonalignment and agreed to join NATO, shortly after Finland’s leaders officially announced they would do the same. The moves are major steps in ending decades of military neutrality for the two Nordic nations, as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine continued to dramatically shift security considerations in Europe. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said their accession would be a “turning point for security” in Europe. “Their membership in NATO would increase our shared security, demonstrate that NATO’s door is open, and that aggression does not pay.” “We’re now facing a fundamentally changed security environment in

Europe,” Swedish Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson said. “And when we navigate in this new environment, the fundamental question for us

is: How do we best protect Sweden? And the Kremlin has shown that they are prepared to use violence to achieve their political objectives and that they don’t

hesitate to take enormous risks.” Swedish Foreign Minister Ann Linde said: “Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine is not only illegal and indefensible, it also undermines the European security order.” While the country’s “200-year-long standing policy of military nonalignment has served Sweden well,” the nation now faced a “fundamental change,” she said. “As a member of NATO, Sweden not only achieves more security, but also contributes to more security.” The decision still needs to be ratified by the parliaments of both countries, but that is considered largely a formality. Once formal requests are submitted, each of NATO’s 30 member nations must approve, a process that

could take months or longer. NATO is a “collective selfdefence” alliance, binding member countries to come to the aid of any other NATO nation under assault. At the heart of the organisation is Article 5, which says that “an armed attack against one or more” members “shall be considered an attack against them all.” Among Russia’s preinvasion demands was a rollback of NATO’s “open door” policy, under which countries once part of the Soviet Union have joined the alliance. Instead of a rollback, the Russian invasion appears to be producing further expansion, right on Russia’s roughly 800-mile border with Finland. Sweden had been closely coordinating with Helsinki on its decision to join the military alliance.

While giving a green light, Sweden’s Social Democratic Party noted in a statement its opposition to deploying nuclear weapons or permanent bases on Swedish soil as part of the military alliance. Both decisions represent a seminal shift in military thinking on the continent following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Amid threats from Moscow over NATO’s eastern expansion, Finland had held back from joining NATO since it was formed in 1949. But since Russian tanks rolled into Ukraine in late February, support for joining NATO has surged among the Finnish public. Meanwhile, with Russia bogged down with the war in Ukraine, calculations over Moscow’s ability to retaliate have also shifted.

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Your Money BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Income protection is the most tax efficient means to provide an income should you become ill or have an accident and be unable to earn. Who would pay for your mortgage, gas, electric, phone, food, children’s education, car payments, holidays, insurance, pension, home repairs etc, if your income dried up tomorrow? Do you think your salary is protected by another insurance product eg. mortgage protection, loan repayment protection and critical illness cover? Well, it’s not in most cases! Less than 10% of us have any form of private salary protection. Income protection, a form of disability/sickness insurance, can help you stay on top of the bills that matter, even if you are unable to work for three months or more due to illness, injury, or disability. The cover can be provided up to age 65 and, if you wished, you could cover off your pension contributions each month. So not only are your bills not building up, but your pension provision need not suffer either while you are recovering With income protection, you take control of your financial security. By paying

An income protection plan that works for you

a monthly premium, which is determined by your employment and health status, you will receive a regular income for the complete duration of your illness until you return to work or retire. Not only that, but the Revenue within certain limits will also give you the same level of tax relief on your premiums that they give to pension contributions. So your costs could be reduced by up to 40% with tax relief at source. Imagine if you were lucky enough to have savings of

€50,000. Suppose you get sick. Think! You have no income protection. Your salary ceases nearly immediately. You become dependent on social welfare. Not to worry you have savings. You begin to use your saving at a rate of €3,000 per month. Your savings are gone in 17 months! What then? Fortunately, there’s a way of ensuring that in the event of an injury or illness that leaves you unable to earn, your financial commitments will be met, and your lifestyle protected, thereby giving you

peace of mind to focus on your recovery. The cost of an income protection plan depends on the option you choose. It’s dependent on your age, your occupation and your health. It is very easy to fit a plan into your budget that you can review as your circumstances change. With new entrants coming into the income protection market offering discounts on premiums and price matching other companies offerings there is great scope

for to effect a meaningful plan within your budget. Here are two examples... Philip is a quantity surveyor currently earning €50,000 a year and is 30 years old. He has chosen to protect 50% of his salary ie. € 25,000 a year until his retirement age of 65. He selects a six-month waiting time and chooses to index-link his premiums. Now consider this.... If Philip were to claim on his policy in two years’ time (aged 32) and his claim lasted for

the average duration of five and a half years, he would be paid over €156,259 in benefits. If he were unable to return before retirement, then over that 35-year period he would be paid a total benefit of €1,460,000. Fiona is a 35-year-old sales rep currently earning €72,000 a year. She has chosen to protect 50% of her salary ie. € 36,000 a year until her retirement at age 65. She selects a sixmonth waiting time and chooses to index link her premiums. Now consider this.... If Fiona were to claim on her policy in two years’ time (aged 37) and her claim lasted for five and a half years, she would be paid over €224,000 in benefits. If she were unable to return before retirement, then over that 28 year period she would be paid a total of € 1,639,636 in benefit. In each example they both get the protection of a regular income during difficult times, tailored to their needs and circumstances. It is flexible, customisable and packed with features. You need to review your income protection plan at least every three years to be sure you have the most suitable plan in place and you make be pleasantly surprised with a premium reduction. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Ashes to ashes, dust to dust BY NED EGAN

DUST. We are surrounded by it. ‘Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, if God doesn’t get you, the Divil must,’ we used to sing at school playtime. There’s a great book called ‘A Handful of Dust.’ Then there is the dust of our ancestors, dead and gone. The dust of a thousand million meteorites and rocky inanimate asteroids, racing through time and eternal space until they crash at last into the forming ball of our Earth, helping to make it, to grow it - maybe to destroy it. Then there’s the dust of my tiny son Ned, his unseeing baby eyes staring forever at the blue sea by which he was buried, the Mediterranean. A victim, an innocent infant who was only granted a few short days on this lovely planet. On a sun-bleached island, little Ned never even saw the blue blue sky during his tooshort days. Sixty years ago. He is now just a few indelible grammes of diamond dust. I was deathly afraid; like TS Elliot wrote “I will show you

fear in a handful of dust.” But I couldn’t show fear or hurt. In those tough times. But my heart was broken - still is. He took a big part of me with him. The military doctors were kind, but they told me Ned would never see, nor would he hear, or walk. There was only a few bits of him there. Nobody knew at the time that the little fellow was part of the wreckage and devastation inflicted by Thalidomide. One top doctor – a good but rather insensitive character – said to me: “Egan, he won’t have the life of a crab”: It hurt, but it was true. I talk about Ned as if I knew him – but they wouldn’t even let me see him. “For your own good, Egan – you’d never be any use again.” Military days then – and when the head medic quietly suggested “we might let him go?” – I knew what he meant. Was I right to nod wordlessly? The way the doc put it – a religious man himself - “We all pass through deserts and ice fields during our life, before the Almighty claims us – this little fellow is only taking a shortcut – avoiding all the hardnesses and disappointments that befall so many, on the way to the grave”. Was I a coward? Maybe. Aren’t we all, about many things? Now, when I see

a particularly beautiful sunset, I think of little Ned, and him being part of it. Molecules may be all we are. Specks of carbon in the limitless Universe. The huge space rock that wiped out dinosaurs and most other species all those millions of years ago, threw up enough

dust to blot out the sun for ages, and so doomed any survivors of the impact and fireball.. Some of that dust will still be up there in the stratosphere, mingling with interstellar fragments that fall towards us every day. The winter nights of my youth, 70 years ago. I would

be out in the cold dark fields trying to catch something to eat – rabbit, hare, pigeon, pheasant.. Overhead – in those times of no electricity, and few motors - the luminous silky scarf of the Milky Way wrapped our nights in its eternal ransluscent mantle, letting us humans know that we hadn’t come all that far from the stone age. Occasional tiny flecks of galactic dust would hit our stratosphere, and burn out at huge speed, and provide a fireworks display, all for me alone, standing in some lonely field, thinking I was looking at “Shooting Stars”. An odd speck of cosmic dust would get through, on those silent nights in old Kilkenny County. The only sounds would be the love-sick howling of a vixen {mostly responsible and blamed for the dreaded Banshee’s scream.} If there was ever the odd Fairy Woman, she certainly was closer then. And now I look back at those lost times, and long for them. The same as the old horse used to look at the Creamery car, and wish he was useful again, after tractors doomed a million of his kind… Atoms of dust in the skyworld are also made too of

the remnants of my lovely daughter Noreen, who would still be with us but for the hands of another. I don’t often talk about her. I’m unable to. She lived an uproarious and dangerous life, always close to the edge. One terrible night, the black beast of death came for her. And you cannot ignore that awful reaper. Now she is but an atom in the ionosphere, circling unknowingly the planet of her loves and misfortunes. The day she was consumed by fire and sent up a huge tall chimney was one of the worst days of my life. And I’ve had a few.Will I ever find her? Will a speck of my future dust pass near a speck of Ned or Noreen? That’s all I hope for, in the long dream-filled nights of my old age. Heaven would be out of the question for all three of us, for different reasons. That is a place for religious, and rules are rules. Here’s to the future, folks. Make what you will of it. Ned E DISCLAIMER The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Kilkenny Observer.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Science & Wellbeing Research some time back linked coffee consumption with a reduced risk of developing Alzheimer’s later in life. However, researchers from the Krembil Brain Institute in Toronto, Canada were looking to see how. “Coffee consumption does seem to have some correlation to a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease,” Donald Weaver, co-director of the Krembil Brain Institute, said in a statement. “But we wanted to investigate why that is — which compounds are involved and how they may impact age-related cognitive decline.” With this in mind, the team of researchers designed an experiment looking at three different types of coffee — light roast, dark roast, and decaffeinated dark roast. They performed tests to see how compounds in the coffee interacted with beta-amyloid and tau — proteins that are typically found in the brain when someone has Alzheimer’s or another age-related brain condition. According to their findings, a chemical compound in coffee called phenylindanes prevented the buildup and clumping of beta-amyloid and tau. Even further, dark roast coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated) was found to contain the most phenylindanes, since the roasting process yields more of the compound. The researchers concluded, therefore, that dark roast coffee provides the best protection against cognitive conditions. “It’s the first time anybody’s investigated how phenylindanes interact with the proteins that are responsible for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s,” said Ross Mancini, PhD, one of the researchers on the

Further study shows coffee wards off dementia

study. “The next step would be to investigate how beneficial these compounds are, and whether they have the ability to enter the bloodstream, or cross the blood-brain barrier.” The fact that this compound is naturally occurring rather than synthetically created, the researchers say, is an even more promising finding as

we seek to develop new treatments for these conditions. “Mother Nature is a much better chemist than we are, and Mother Nature is able to make these compounds,” said Mancini. “If you have a complicated compound, it’s nicer to grow it in a crop, harvest the crop, grind the crop out, and extract it [rather] than try

to make it.” So, the next time you’re at the grocery store, pick up the dark roast for your morning cup of joe. This way, you can be confident that you’re getting a pick-me-up and also doing great things for your brain health in the long term. Meantime, the next time you pick some fresh basil from

your garden or the supermarket, remember that it’s great for your brain health! New research shows that fenchol, a natural compound in basil and other plants, may protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease. Fenchol is a type of terpene, or a naturally occurring compound, that gives the plant its signature scent. It’s the reason basil smells so heavenly. It’s also the reason basil and plants containing terpenes have antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. But why might fenchol reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease? In the study published in the journal Frontiers in Ageing Neuroscience, researchers wanted to better understand the link between the gut microbiome and the brain. They knew from previous studies that the microorganisms living in our digestive tract play a huge role in our metabolism, endocrine system, and immunity. They also knew that those microorganisms release chemicals that improve brain health. But could chemicals from outside the body improve brain health as well? With this question in mind, the research team theorised that fenchol protects the brain against Alzheimer’s disease. Multiple neurochemical pathways link the gut to the brain. This means that the brain and the gut are constantly communicating. But how? According to a 2020 review, researchers believe that short-chain fatty acids play a big role. Short-chain fatty acids, or SCFAs, are a type of fatty acid in the digestive tract. Microorganisms in the gut produce them as they ferment certain foods, specifical-

ly dietary fibers and resistant starch. (Resistant starch is a carbohydrate in grains, seeds, and legumes that resists digestion in the small intestine. It ferments in the large intestine instead.) SCFAs travel through the blood to the brain. Once there, they activate a sensing mechanism on brain cells. As the Frontiers in Ageing Neuroscience study discovered, this activation causes the brain to start clearing out any abnormal buildup of Aβ protein. The Aβ protein is the main ingredient in ‘bad’ brain plaque, which builds up in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. What does all this have to do with fenchol? The researchers noticed that when they blocked the SCFA sensing mechanism, the brain developed an abnormal buildup of Aβ protein. So, they set out to find a plant compound that could unblock the sensing mechanism. Fenchol was the plant compound for the job. Of all the compounds that the researchers tested, it was the best at binding to the sensing mechanism. Even better, it significantly lowered the amount of Aβ protein in the brain. It also reduced the death of neurons. Fenchol did something else extraordinary, too. Upon closer examination, researchers found that the plant compound decreased senescent neuronal cells, or cells that stop multiplying but don’t die off. So, they continue to release chemicals that trigger inflammation. The inflammation can spread and damage neighbouring cells. For this reason, scientists refer to them as “zombie” cells. Alzheimer’s patients often have these zombie cells in their brains.

Orangutan not that far removed from humans Orangutans are synonymous with their reddish-orange fur. But the ‘orang’ sound in their name has nothing to do with their distinct colouration: the name orangutan means ‘person of the forest’ in the Malay language. The moniker may be more accurate than we knew. “They’re extremely intelligent, they’re very similar to us, they have cultures, they have prototypical behaviorus that are assumed to be precursive of language,” Dr Adriano Lameira told the online website Salon. One of our closest living relatives, orangutans share 96.4% of their genes with humans. These critically endangered great apes also share a similar knack for communication. Indeed, orangutans, like other great apes, have long been known to exhibit high levels of cognitive functioning. They can recall and convey information about the past or the future to others, despite their solitary nature. Now, scientists have

demonstrated that social dynamics play a role in verbal communication among orangutans. The results

discredit a widely held view that orangutans are prewired to produce vocalizations instinctually. What

they found was that orangutan communication style depends on social influence, and is startlingly similar to

human expression. Intriguingly, orangutans that lived in densely populated areas expressed more individuality in their verbal communication style. Dr Lameira compared the effect to the variety of fashion choices in a city. “Like us, when great apes are exposed to different social settings, this moulds how they communicate — which is basically what happens when a person is learning a new language, as a child or an infant learning the mother tongue or later as an adult learning a second language. “There seems to be a premium on novelty,” he described. “They tend to always search for new variants in the sound space that they can use. They’re always picking new combinations and new inflection almost like an expression of individuality to stand out,” he said. “Like us, when great apes are exposed to different social settings, this molds how they communicate — which

is basically what happens when a person is learning a new language, as a child or an infant learning the mother tongue or later as an adult learning a second language,” Lameira continued. Advertisement: However, Lameira cautiously avoided describing verbal skills of orangutans or other great apes as a “language.” Still, his team’s findings, published in Nature, suggest humans are not alone in our capacity for language development. We just got there first. “There’s not much that differs us from these animals,” he asserted. “If they are open to social influence as we are, then either they are a little bit more human than we thought, or we are a bit more ape than we would like to admit.” The dire conditions of orangutans and other great apes in the wild are a testament to a failure of human stewardship of our planet, much to the contrary of the human superiority complex.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Travel & Leisure A lot of Irish tourists who visit New York City to see family or just explore the Big Apple expect to pay a little more for things in the city that never sleeps. And most travellers have at least one story where they have paid a ridiculous amount of money for a stale sandwich or watered-down cocktail at an airport. But $27 beer is apparently where New York authorities are now drawing the line. The agency that oversees the three major New York City area airports is cracking down on sky-high prices being charged for food and drinks. An investigation by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PA), which has oversight over Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and NewarkLiberty (EWR) airports, found that some beer and food in the terminals was being sold to travellers at “totally indefensible” prices. How egregious were some of the prices being charged? How about $27.85 for a Sam Adams Summer Ale Draught? Or $11 for an order of french fries or $4 for a small orange juice? The PA’s offce of Inspector General launched a monthslong investigation into the alleged price gouging. The agency’s report concluded that the vendor OTG violated street pricing policy by erroneously adding a surcharge to an already inflated base price. OTG handles concessions at the three NYC-area airports as well as at hundreds of other airports across the US. The Port Authority now says it has implemented new pricing standards for concessions at the three New York/New Jersey airports that sets a cap for food and drink prices at what are described as local “street prices.” The new policy allows for a maximum surcharge of 10% that can be added. Part of the problem, the agency said, was that the previous street-pricing policy Doolin Ferry Co. ‘Cruise Company of the Year Ireland’, has set sail for the summer season, with their state-ofthe-art ferries operating once again from Doolin Pier to the Aran Islands. Passengers can also opt to board a Cliffs of Moher cruise, or the thrilling Seafari experience, which was introduced in 2021. With the popularity of the Aran Islands continuing to increase year-on-year, the family-run business now offers up to 20 sailings per day between Inis Óirr, Inis Mór and Inis Meáin. As a top destination in the West of Ireland, the Aran Islands offer visitors the chance to step back in time and experience Irish culture in its truest and most traditional forms. For families, friends and couples, a trip with Doolin Ferry Co. to the Aran Islands is a day-trip unlike any other where a variety of exciting activities await across the three picturesque island locations. The largest of the three islands, (translated as ‘Big

Moves to stop over-pricing at New York airports

was not speciffic enough in its instructions to vendors. The revisions presumably address that issue. “All airport customers should rightly expect that policies which limit the pricing of food and beverages at concessions will be followed and enforced,” Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole said in a statement. “Nobody should have to fork over such an exorbitant amount for a beer. The Aviation Department’s new compliance and enforcement measures announced today make it crystal clear that all prices at concessions will be routinely monitored to ensure they are aligned with the regional marketplace.”

In addition to price caps, airport concessionaires must also offer less expensive food and drink options to customers. All of this began with a viral tweet back in July 2021 from a customer who couldn’t believe the beer prices inside LaGuardia Airport. Not long after that, New Jersey Congressman Donald Payne, Jr., also called out the obscene prices for concessions at Newark-Liberty airport. Payne, who represents New Jersey’s 10th district, said $11 french fries and $20 beers were an insult to travellers. “Simply put: travel is stressful enough,” Payne wrote in a letter he co-authored with other lawmakers to the Port

Authority. “Being bamboozled at the bar for a bottle of beer is no way for our region to greet or wave goodbye to our neighbours.”

Getting the best out of the Big Apple Meanwhile, if planning to city New York City for the time here is some advice on making the most of itheck out the views from the top of the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, or One World Observatory. Take yourself on a museum crawl, starting at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on the northeastern edge of Central Park. Then, make your way north several blocks to the Guggenheim Museum and eventually to the Museum of the City of New York, one of the best places to learn about the Big Apple’s history. Go to Chinatown for dim sum and to Little Italy for cannoli. Head to a jazz club in Harlem, check out the independent artist galleries that dot Chelsea, shop along Fifth Avenue, and pay a visit to the Statue of Liberty. You could spend an entire day in Central Park alone, checking out its zoo, carousel, lakes, and ice rink. A number of gardens and meadows make for excellent people-watching and host impromptu musical performances on nice days. Traveling in the summer? Make sure to check the schedule for Shakespeare in the Park.

Explore the Aran Islands this summer Island’), Inis Mór is the most popular and most visited of the islands. With green flowing fields and traditional stone walls, Inis Mór lives up to the romantic image that most will have dreamed up

when planning their trip. Upon arriving, visitors can choose to explore the island by bike, by foot, by minibus or by pony and trap. Adventure seekers can opt to scuba dive, swim, hike, or

The Port Authority encourages anyone who travels through one of the area’s three big airports to report any suspected

price gouging by alerting the agency’s social media channels. In other words: If you see something, say something. Meanwhile, if planning to city New York City for the time here is some advice on making the most of itheck out the views from the top of the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, or One World Observatory. Take yourself on a museum crawl, starting at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on the northeastern edge of Central Park. Then, make your way north several blocks to the Guggenheim Museum and eventually to the Museum of the City of New York, one of the best places to learn about the Big Apple’s history. Go to Chinatown for dim sum and to Little Italy for cannoli. Head to a jazz club in Harlem, check out the independent artist galleries that dot Chelsea, shop along Fifth Avenue, and pay a visit to the Statue of Liberty. You could spend an entire day in Central Park alone, checking out its zoo, carousel, lakes, and ice rink. A number of gardens and meadows make for excellent peoplewatching and host impromptu musical performances on nice days. Traveling in the summer? Make sure to check the schedule for Shakespeare in the Park.

explore the rugged terrain in a Land Rover Defender jeep on a guided tour. Inis Mór also has lots for foodies to enjoy, including the delicious Aran Goat Cheese, made by local artisan producer Gabriel

Faherty. Wildlife enthusiasts should keep their eyes peeled for the Inis Mór seal colony and the beautiful wild swans a truly a treat for the eyes! With the fastest operating ferry fleet from Doolin, Doolin Ferry Co. will get you to Inis Oírr in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect location for a half or full day visit, and in particular for families. The welcome to Inis Oírr could not be more scenic, with a beautiful white sandy beach and a great view of O’Brien’s Castle just beyond it. Families will love the newly built playground on the island, which is also home to picnic benches - perfect for lunch in the sun! Explorers will be kept busy with holy wells, ancient ruins, the Áras Éanna cultural centre and the Fardurris Point lighthouse awaiting them. This island is particularly popular amongst Father Ted fans, thanks to the Plassey Shipwreck, with the annual ‘Tedfest’ taking place on Inis Oírr every February. For history buffs and walking enthusiasts, Inis

Meáin will be a dream come true. As there are not many tours available on the island, those that visit should be prepared to explore the island by walking, hiking or biking. Inis Meáin is home to two stunning beaches, both of which are ideal for swimming, relaxing or picnicking. As a well-known and famous retreat for many writers, artists and poets, this island is full to the brim with culture, one such site is JM Synge’s cottage, where many of his classics were written. History lovers will enjoy wandering around the famous fort ruins of the island, Dun Chonchuir and Dun Fearbhai, both of which were built in the bronze or iron ages. * Ticket prices for Aran Islands sailings with Doolin Ferry Co. range from €6 one way / inter island and from €18 return. Find out more about ticket prices and sailing times here. Visitors can book ferry tickets by phoning 065 707 5555 or online at www.doolinferry. com

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Feature

The story of the Leadville Irish Memorial Leadville, Colorado, at 10,200 Feet in Elevation, is the highest town in North America. It’s also the site of the largest and most politically important Irish immigrant community in the Rocky Mountain West, consisting of approximately 20% of the population during the early 1880s. This working class immigrant community occupied the most difficult jobs, struggled unsuccessfully to improve their working conditions, many died very young from harsh winters, sickness, mining accidents, and epidemics. The Catholic Free section of Leadville’s Evergreen Cemetery holds the remains of thousands of Irish immigrants, buried in sunken, unmarked graves. The average age of death was twenty-three and nearly half of them are children. Today, a major memorial to these 19th century Irish immigrants is under construction, naming those in the unmarked graves and standing as a visual reminder of the human toll that industrial labour took on Irish immigrant communities across North America. Jim Walsh is an historian and researcher at Colorado University in Denver. When he was working on his doctoral thesis, he decided to focus on the Irish in Colorado. Following a visit to a local graveyard in Leadville, his life was about to change forever. In a section that is recognisable by what looks like snowdrifts, are 1,400 people, of different denominations, whose stories of trial and triumph had been lost to time. That was until Professor Walsh came upon them. The City of Leadville is a former silver mining town that lies among the headwaters of the Arkansas River within the Rocky Mountains. In the late 19th century, Leadville was the second most populous city in Colorado, after Denver. Mining in the Leadville area began in 1859 when prospectors discovered gold at the mouth of California Gulch. In 1876, black sand, once considered bothersome to placer gold miners, was discovered to contain lead carbonates, leading to a rush of miners to the area and the founding of the town in 1877. By 1880, Leadville was one of the world’s largest and richest silver camps, with a population of

Thousands of sunken, unmarked graves stretch through a pine forest at 10,200 feet in Leadville. The average age of those buried there was 23

Unmarked pauper graves in Colorado traced to emigrants from Castlecomer and surrounding areas more than 15,000. However, The Kilkenny Observer wishes to concentrate on Leadville for a different reason. Professor Walsh has spent nearly two decades unearthing the stories of the people in those sunken graves, the people who made it out of Leadville and on to places like California or Montana, and the history of Leadville during the silver boom of the late 1800’s. The graves, discovered by Jim, belong to people who were too poor to be buried in a different section or with a headstone. Walsh found their names and ages, thanks to Church records. He discovered the average age of the people in the pine boxes was 23 years old, and half of them were children under 12. Based on their surnames, he was able to determine that 70 percent were from Ireland. The Irish fled Ireland in the second half of

the 19th century first because of the potato famine in the 1840s and 50s. “They arrived hungry and desperate and unskilled and uneducated and were ostracized,” Walsh said. “Many fled to places like Leadville because they knew there was a job here for them.” This amazing story caught the attention of Castlecomer man Donie O’Neill. Researching the story for himself, Donie discovered that of the hundreds of people, now buried in the Leadville cemetery, some graves hold bodies that came from the North Kilkenny village of Castlecomer and surrounding areas. ASSISTED EMIGRATION Immigrants came to the U.S in coffin ships, a name given because of how many people never made it to their destination. Donie recounts stories of coaches running from ‘Comer to Carlow with over

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Feature Evergreen Cemetery in Leadville, Colorado. The landscape was designed by Barnabas Kane and the sculpture in the center was designed by Terry Brennan.( Courtesy of Irish Network Colorado)

to emigrate. Between 1856 and 1906 the Irish Poor Law Boards of Guardians financed the emigration of about 25,000 paupers, primarily to the United States and Canada.

James Walsh, UCD assistant professor in history and political science, has been a driving force behind the creation of Leadville’s Irish Miners Memorial. Photographed June 3, 2021. (Hart Van Denburg/CPR News)

thirty people on board. These people were sometimes on their last legs and would have travelled in rags, such was the poverty they were enduring. Donie has been researching those from North Kilkenny who made that incredible journey that brought them from The Castlecomer Coalmining village to America and Canada. Some to the Silver mines of Leadville. Names such as Boyle, Brennan, Brophy, Carthy, Connors, O’Neill, Delaney, Flynn, Dillon, Lynch, Meally, and Walsh. The list runs to hundreds. And was there any incentive for them to go we queried of Donie? “Well, apart from sheer poverty, it would be best described as assistant emigration”, said Donie. A number of assisted emigration schemes were available for those who could not afford

MEMORIAL TO THE FORGOTTEN DEAD Donie is delighted to report that thanks to the work of Jim Walsh and his committee a memorial is being planned with an unveiling hoped for in September of this year. Irish Ambassador to America, Dan Mulhall visited Leadville in May and spoke on the site of a new memorial which will recall the thousands of Irish who died in the city’s silver mines in the late 19th century. The new memorial will recall the names of the Leadville Irish. Speaking ahead of his visit to Leadville Ambassador Mulhall said: “The Leadville Irish were among the earliest Irish in Colorado and the western US. Through hard work in extreme working and weather conditions, many prospered, but so many also died in a remote location, far from family and loved ones, and lay forgotten until recently. I am delighted that the new memorial will name and remember those Irish who lie in Leadville and give them the dignity they deserve, and highlight to future generations the history of Irish in Colorado and the western US. In the centre of the Evergreen Cemetery will be a memorial. A spiral pathway will lead to the top of a mound where a sculpture will sit. It’s reminiscent of ancient Irish burial mounds. The names of each person in the

This memorial currently being developed recognizes the Irish community buried in unmarked, sunken graves in the Catholic Pauper section of Evergreen Cemetery, most of whom were Irish immigrants

Miners in Colorado circa 1889

plots will be carved into glass walls or onto plaques. “The sorrow of that journey is lost. It was so traumatic that it was not passed on in oral tradition. “So this Memorial is pausing that narrative for just an instant, to turn around and just look at from whence we’ve come and that offers us our humanity back, maybe.”

Anxious to spread the news and indeed the history of the Irish who travelled to Colorado in the 1800’s, Jim Walsh is undertaking a tour of Ireland to impart his knowledge. One of the venues will be the Library in Castlecomer on June 7th at 6.30pm. Booking to attend this talk can be made by phoning the library on 0564440561

Leadville and Mount Massive, Colrado. Famous Little Johnny Mine in the foreground

Members of the memorial planning team pose with Irish Ambassador Daniel Mulhall. From left to right: James Walsh, Alan Groarke, Amb. Mulhall, Leadville Mayor Greg Labbe, Kathleen Fitzsimmons, Lisa Switzer, Luke Finken, and Consul General Adrian Farrell

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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News

Biden looks to Ireland to solve baby formula crisis President Joe Biden has signalled increased imports of infant formula from Ireland as families in the US struggle to access the product amid a nationwide shortage. Industry sources have said major infant formula manufacturer Abbot has looked to its facility in Ireland in a bid to ramp up supplies, with the company understood to be flying the product to the US to

reduce shipping times. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will announce new steps in the coming days regarding importing certain infant formula products from abroad, the White House said, and Biden has asked the Federal Trade Commission to probe reports of predatory conduct such as price gouging. US formula shortages be-

cause of a factory being taken offline have been compounded by supply chain snags and historic inflation, leaving about 40pc of baby formula products out of stock nationwide, according to data firm Datasembly. Ireland produces around 12% of global infant formula exports, providing a vital channel for the utilisation of its dairy ingredients (skim

milk, milk and whey protein ingredients and lactose). The US market has increasingly become a vital destination for the Irish dairy industry with exports reaching €359m in 2020, more than doubling the value over the last five years and contributing almost 16pc to Ireland’s total growth in dairy exports in the same period. The surge in demand comes

as farm gate milk prices here reach look set to reach record highs, with both Lakeland Diaries and Glanbia Ireland announcing price increases for April. Tight supplies of formula in the US dwindled further after Abbott Laboratories in February recalled Similac and other baby formula made at its Michigan, plant following consumer complaints of

Another €100 fuel aid won’t help in long run: Funchion The news that the Government will provide an additional €100 payment to Fuel Allowance recipients from this week has been cautiously welcomed by Sinn Fein TD Kathleen Funchion but she said: “Any additional measure to support households in Kilkenny is welcome at this time, but the announced payment will only provide relief to a very limited number of households. “Many workers and families in Kilkenny are seriously struggling to make ends meet, and they are excluded from receiving an additional payment for energy costs. “Yet again there are no measures to support these households, despite soaring household energy costs affecting homes everywhere,” the Kilkenny TD said. “That is why Sinn Féin called for the establishment of a Discretionary Fund to assist households, including those who are locked out of the Fuel Allowance, with utility debt. “This call is reiterated by the Society of St Vincent de Paul who, like us, do not agree that the Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP) is enough. “Minister Humphreys has pointed to the ENP for households who are struggling, but the payment is available in only some circumstances through local Community Welfare Officers.

“We have made this point to Minister Humphreys repeatedly that the ENP is not a catch-all solution for those who are struggling with energy costs and who are locked out of the Fuel Allowance.” Ms Funchion said her office in Kilkenny was inundated with constituents who are really struggling to make ends meet but were refused financial assistance through the Exceptional Needs Payment (ENP). They desperately needed help with the most basic necessities, like their home heating oil. “Supports like the ENP need to be flexible. However, cases like this show exactly why we are not confident it is enough to support families and workers,” the TD said. “The Government have also refused to provide support to households who rely on home heating oil, the cost of which has increased by €1000 in the last year and continues to rise. “The majority of households in Kilkenny use home heating oil and effectively have been ignored as part of measures brought forward in relation to the cost of living crisis. “Added to that, the Government have proceeded with the Carbon Tax increase earlier this month, which will further increase the cost of home heating oil for those households that rely on it,” she said.

Fundraising event for Irish cancer society After a two-year hiatus because of the pandemic, the Relay for Life organising committee’s fundraising initiative on behalf of The Irish Cancer Society is returning to the Rugby Club on July 2 and 3. Cervical smear campaigner Vicky Phelan is the event’s ambassador and although unable to offer her support in person the committee is honoured to have her on board, according to a spokesperson.

The spokesperson said: “We want to remind the people who have been so supportive of this event since it was introduced to Kilkenny a decade ago, that we are back with a bang.” Mayor McGuiness will be in attendance as well as Relay for Life VIPs, survivors, sponsors and team captains. The Rugby Club will host the launch at 7.30pm on this Friday, May 20. All are welcome.

bacterial contamination. The FDA later cited five bacterial infections reported in babies given the company’s formula, including two deaths. Abbott, the biggest US supplier of milk formula, said tests showed one bacteria strain found in the facility was not linked to any known infant illnesses, although it was updating its cleaning and related protocols.

Well done: Ciara Ryan from St Brigid’s College a national finalist in SEP Junior Category

Kilkenny fares well in Student Enterprise awards The National Finalists for the Student Enterprise Programme has taken place at The Helix in Dublin. The Local Enterprise Office initiative, now in its 20th year, has seen more than 300,000 secondary students complete Ireland’s largest enterprise programme since it began. There was a good spread across the country with 11 counties in total, including Kilkenny, having schools included in the Top 5 Finalists across the Junior, Intermediate and Senior categories. Ciara Ryan from St Brigid’s

College successfully reached the final stages of the Junior Category, with her business ‘Sew Stylish’ which creates uniquely designed multifunctional hair scrunchies with a discrete zip pocket that can be used to hide/store money, lip gloss or keys, but can also still be used to tie your hair up. In the Intermediate category, twin brothers Adam and Liam Doyle, from Coláiste Éamann Rís with their painting service business ‘Twin Painters’ represented Kilkenny.

The programme also had two additional categories that students could enter. These were the ‘Most Creative Business Idea’ video competition for the Senior category and the ‘My Entrepreneurial Journey’ category for the Junior and Intermediate categories. Ned O’Meara also from Clouts Éamann Rís was announced the overall national winner in the Intermediate category of ‘My Entrepreneurial Journey’. Also, congratulations to our finalist Saoirse Walsh who received 2nd place in the Junior cat-

egory of ‘My Entrepreneurial Journey Competition’. Cathaoirleach Fidelis Doherty, Kilkenny County Council said: “This is the 20th year of the Student Enterprise Programme and there have been some amazing ideas from across the county. While not all have made it to the national final, they can be very proud of what they have achieved. The experience of being involved in the programme will stand with them forever and maybe someday in the future will light the spark of entrepreneurship.”

EU global move on AI ‘good for Ireland’ Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune has said the EU’s determination to become a global leader in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is good news for Ireland. The European Parliament has voted in favour of a roadmap that seeks to set clear AI standards and push investment and research. It is part of the EU’s proposed AI Act, the first law of its kind by

any major regulator. Having spoken on the matter in Parliament, MEP Clune said: “Artificial Intelligence has huge potential benefits for our society and economy. From phone apps and voice recognition to Covid-19 vaccines, it is already shaping people’s lives.” Ms Clune said leading companies had been conducting

AI research in Ireland for more than 25 years, but the EU was facing challenges as it continued to compete with the US and China in this technology. “We now have an opportunity to shape the future of artificial intelligence, based on our core European ethical standards. “These programmes must be trustworthy, with human oversight and strong regulatory

bodies.” She said the proposed AI rules would bring legal certainty across the EU and address the problem of market fragmentation. “Clear regulations will help cross-border funding and data exchange, boosting Ireland’s capacity to attract AI investment, talent and innovation,” Ms Clune said.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Senior Living

Troys Court - For independent living

Free hearing aids - how does that sound to you? WHERE cost may previously have been a barrier to treating hearing loss for individuals, Audiology Medical Services - one of Ireland’s leading independent audiology specialists – are now in a position to offer ‘Free Hearing Tests’ and ‘Free Hearing Aids’, up to a value of €1,000, to any person that is eligible under the PRSI Treatment Benefit Scheme. More people than ever are now eligible including those who are employed, selfemployed, and retired once you or your spouse / civil partner have the required PRSI contributions. Medical Card holders may also be eligible for

the grant. Audiology Medical Services can check your eligibility today and provide personalised, expert advice to find the right device for you. To book an appointment in any of their nationwide clinics, including Ayrfield Medical Centre in Kilkenny, freephone 1800 501 501 or visit www.audiology medicalservices. ie

TROY’S Court consists of 20 independent living units, providing accommodation for persons, who are independent or have low dependency care needs. In addition to the units, the complex has a day care centre, communal dining room, kitchen, laundrette, assisted bathrooms, toilets, a treatment room and an oratory. The emphasis at Troy’s Court is on independent living, in a safe and secure communal environment. Support services to residents comprise of a daily 4 course meal, laundry service including ironing, assistance with light housekeeping, daily collection of refuse and recycling, all included in the weekly rental charge. A day centre for the elderly

of the Parish operates Monday to Thursday each week, with a nurse and care-assistant in attendance. A social gathering of parishioners, who come to enjoy activities such as bingo, cards, music, art & crafts and exercise classes. A 4 course meal is also provided. In addition, with the help of volunteer drivers, a home dinner delivery service is available for a small fee, 7 days per week to parishioners of the surrounding areas. The Priests of the Parish celebrate weekly mass every Tuesday in St Canice’s Parish Homes. Admission to Troy’s Court is by way of application and a waiting list applies. The main source of funding is the rental payment from residents, a

small contribution from the Health Service Executive and fees collected from day care & home dinner delivery service. Small fund raising activities such as Church Gate Collections, street collection and the goodwill of parishioners are also most important. Troy’s Court provides employment for a 11 part-time staff. The Kilkenny Carers Support Services, under the auspices of the Department of Social Protection Community Employment Scheme (FAS), provide further personnel. Volunteers are always welcome to help out at Troy’s Court. The Manager Ms Frances Gilligan reports to the Board of Directors, who voluntarily give of their services.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

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Senior Living

ORCHARD HOUSE , NEW ORCHARD , TUESDAY 24th 11AM TO 1PM

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre where fashion has no age limit… MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre has proudly been recognised as Ireland’s first Age Friendly Shopping Centre since October 2016. The team at the shopping centre believes that the ageing population represents a considerable demographic for Irish businesses and so, have implemented changes to enhance the Centre for their older customers including: • Dedicated age friendly parking spaces

How I improve my eyesight naturally CLAIR WHITTY

LOOKING after my eyesight has been on my mind as I have noticed changes in my vision. I get regular check-ups so I know everything is ok medically. However, I have started to squint and frown more, in particular when reading or on the computer. My eyes are definitely getting tired more easily. Now they water if I overstrain them, wow, that makes me feel old! I suppose at 57 it’s pretty normal wear and tear on the eyes. I have to admit that it has gotten me thinking about looking after my eyes and

adding in a supplement to help look after them as best I can. My main objective is to protect my eyes from macular degeneration and from further deterioration and loss of vision. I had a look at the supplements on offer at our store and I decided on Irish Brand One Nutrition Macu Complete. It contains a nice mixture of 12 important nutrients which contribute to the maintenance of normal vision. Including omega 3 from Algae oil to nourish the eyes. It contains Meso-zeaxanthin, Zeaxanthin, and Lutein which I have read a lot about for optimal eye health. As well as a mix of carotenoids including lycopene which have benefits to eye health and may help protect them from

blue light damage. It contains 25mg of Grapeseed extract, I have seen research on this showing powerful antioxidant benefits. The Macu Complete ingredient combination includes Zinc, Vitamin C and Vitamin B2 which contribute to the maintenance of normal vision. Supporting my eye health now may help slow the development of macular degeneration and oxidative damage to the lens thereby helping prevent cataract formation. Like other parts of our body our eyes will benefit from a healthy diet. Foods rich in antioxidants like brightly coloured fruit and dark green leafy vegetables. Oily fish for their omega 3 essential fatty acids. These fatty acids are important to the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision. It will be important to keep alcohol and saturated fats to a minimum as they can be harmful to the macula and can cause deposits that can constrict blood flow to the arteries. I will let you know how I get on with Irish Brand One Nutrition Macu Complete. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie Shop online www.naturalhealthstore.ie

• Dedicated mall seating • Reading glasses in participating stores • Dementia awareness training programme • Free wheelchair loan service In addition, the Centre has implemented a discount scheme for over 60’s on Wednesday mornings until noon. Customers should avail of this scheme by registering at the Customer Service Desk which will allow them

to enjoy discounted rates at participating stores. The Centre has long established itself a user-friendly space, with their dedicated baby feeding room, free WiFi, play areas, height adjustable changing bench, autism friendly shopping hours and dedicated autism car parking spaces. Most recently the Centre launched the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program. The aim of this new initiative is to continue to ensure a more inclusive shopping experience by discreetly providing additional support to those who may need it. By simply wearing the hidden disabilities sunflower Centre staff can identify if a person may require some extra help, time, or assistance. For more information on this scheme or to avail of the Hidden Disabilities lanyard please contact the Customer Service Desk.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Senior Living

Ireland’s most trusted alarm system

period. 3. Leave a light on when you’re away. To be energy efficient, you can use our smart plugs and set on a timer. 4. Ask a neighbour to bring in your post and bins, so it doesn’t look like you’re away for long. 5. Always arm your alarm at night and when you’re away. 6. If you have a garden and are going away, cut the grass before you leave. PhoneWatch safe guards you against burglary, fire and leakage emergencies that may happen. We tailor our offer-

FEELING safe and comfortable in our homes is essential. We all deserve the right to be worry free when we hear a knock at the door, a rustling noise in the garden, the honk of a car, but we can’t help wondering what or who it is. Thankfully most of the time

it’s a friendly neighbour but at PhoneWatch we want to put your mind at ease. We give you peace of mind by being fully in control of your home when you’re inside and outside, whether you’re alone or with family and friends. PhoneWatch’s award-win-

ning, 24/7 monitored home security is a system you can trust, with over 30 years of experience and an average 22 seconds response rate, you’ll know your home is fully protected with us, 24/7. We can all ensure we’re more secure by following

Are you missing a tooth? AWARD-winning dental group, Pembroke Dental are now accepting new patients for dentures, dental implants and periodontal therapy in their state-of-the-art Kilkenny clinic. Their Specialist Dentists are highly qualified in restoring and replacing missing teeth in a conservative manner. They offer state of the art dental implants to replace missing teeth using permanent crowns that replicate the appearance of your original teeth. Implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth in order to correct the problem of missing teeth, while also boosting your self-esteem and enhancing your smile. Dental Implants Although dental implants are more costly than a bridge or a denture, they are a long-term investment for anyone wanting to replace missing or non-functioning teeth. Implant Specialist, Dr. Sinead Allis explains: “An implant is the closest thing currently available to a like-

for-like tooth replacement. I expect a success rate of more than 90%. Implants can last for a lifetime if a patient’s dental hygiene routine remains good.” Implant consultations with Dr. Allis can be made by calling the Patient Care Team on 0818 211 211. During an Implant Consultation, Dr. Allis will examine your medical history, carry out an assessment of your teeth and gums and guide you as to what she believes is in your best dental interests. Treatment of Gums Pembroke Dental’s Periodontist, Dr. Carlos Castillo who specialises in the treatment of gum problems as well as

implant dentistry alongside Dr. Allis, is also based in the Kilkenny clinic. Dr. Castillo is a dentist who specialises in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal (gum) disease and the treatment of oral inflammation. Dr. Carlos Castillo has moved to Ireland after over 8 years working as a Specialist Dentist in Spain. He is currently offering periodontal and implant consultations two days a week in the Kilkenny practice. Learn More Pembroke Dental are welcoming new and existing patients to their practice and offer both early morning and late evening appointments for your convenience. Their clinic is located in Provincial House, Patrick Street, Co. Kilkenny. Visit www.pembrokedental.ie to learn more.

simple but effective safety tips, such as the below. Safety tips for you: 1. Always lock your doors, even when you’re at home. 2. Don’t leave windows opened when you’re away, even for a short time

ing to suits your needs, as we know every home is different but staying protected always remains the same priority for everyone. We even have key tags to give family members and friends access to your home as you wish, as we all love to see a friendly and familiar face at our doors. Our skilled local professionals are always there to offer our customers free call outs, free technical service and free personal support. For further details and a personalised quote call us on (01) 912 8916 or visit www. phonewatch.ie to request a call back.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Senior Living

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Book review

Review of Journey’s End by Colm Keane WHAT happens when we die? It’s a question all of us wanted answered and that the world’s religions have attempted to resolve since the dawn of time. Colm Keane, author of thirty previous books, including several on the subject of Near Death Experiences (NDEs), tackles this great mystery in his latest book Journey’s End. His books on NDEs had already offered considerable evidence that consciousness can survive independently of the physical body. He recounted hundreds of cases involving Irish people who had been revived after being declared clinically “dead”, and who went on to describe how they entered a heavenly realm and met deceased loved ones and family pets, or found themselves floating above their hospital beds or the scene of an accident, looking down nonchalantly at their prostrate bodies. Claims that NDEs are just hallucinations or delusions brought on by trauma or drugs don’t stand up to scrutiny, he argues, especially when they happen to people whose brains have shut down in addition to their hearts stopping for the duration of the NDE, and Colm enumerated scores of such well documented cases…

experiences by people from every walk of life. Journey’s En d widens the inquiry into the possibility of human survival of death, exploring the beliefs of the various religions; how, despite their obvious and often contentious differences and divisions they agree on the essential point that we go “elsewhere” after we draw our last breath here on earth. It might be called Heaven, the Spirit World, Nirvana, Paradise, depending on one’s culture or religious upbringing, but whatever name we give it there is, he argues overwhelming evidence that there’s more to life than our brief spell down here. Apart from religious belief, which is central to the lives of most people, one must also consider the countless tests conducted under the strictest “laboratory” – like conditions that revealed paranormal happenings pointing to survival. There is Electronic Voice phenomena (EVP), the recording of voices on tape that have no explainable origin, and mediumistic messages from the “dead” that couldn’t have been obtained by fraud or trickery. The Scole Experiment, organized in the English town of that name in the early

1990s, involved mediums being observed and studied by scientists. The researchers were astounded by the accuracy of the information relayed by the test subjects concerning people that the mediums had never met and who were kept at different locations where the mediums couldn’t see, or hear from, them. The author also alludes to the science of Quantum Physics, which has largely relegated 19th century materialism to the scrapheap. It has given even the most hardened atheists food for thought, as it postulates the existence of other dimensions, parallel worlds, and spheres of reality beyond our narrow earthy frames of reference, breathing life back into ancient belief systems that might have been way ahead of their time in strongly emphasizing that physical death is not the end. The book deals with the copious myths and distortions that have marred the quest for information about the afterlife: how some religious teachings have frightened the living daylights out of people instead of offering hope or confirmation of survival. But he also points out that, from the evidence of NDEs in particular, there appears

to be some form of judgment awaiting us on the “Other Side”. People who return “from the brink” recall a life review that resembled a rewinding video that showed them all the highlights of their lives, the good, the bad… what what might have been…and how their actions have affected others. Many NDEs have also left people with a powerful desire to change their lives for the better, to avoid causing hurt and to strive to make the world a better place. So, whether we belong to an organized religion, are skeptical about an afterlife, or rapidly atheistic, it makes sense, the author suggests, to stay on the “path of righteousness” while we occupy these frail mortal bodies of ours. Colm Keane made his own final journey before this enlightening book was published, but I’m sure he’s somewhere “out there”, feeling quite pleased with the reception it’s getting from his many loyal readers and newcomers to the subject, all of them anxious to know what happens to us when our race is run… Journeys End is published by Capel Island Books.

Left: Back Row: John O’Neill, Adult Education Officer KCETB. David Dwyer, Lead Peer Educator, Recovery College South East. David Heffernan, Head of Mental Health Services, S.E.C.H. Paul Clifford, Award Recipient. Niall Ryan, Award Recipient. Mags Lynch, Recovery Education Facilitator. Siobhan O’Brien, Community Education Facilitator, KCETB. Front Row: Margaret Sweeney, Award Recipient. Clare Fitzpatrick, Co-Ordinator, Recovery College South East. Anne-Marie Burke, Award Recipient. Nicki Kenny, Tutor, KCETB. Below: Award Recipients: Margaret Sweeney, Paul Clifford, Niall Ryan, Anne-Marie Burke Missing from the award recipient’s photograph: Catherine Flynn, Maggie Morrissey, Deirdre Hayes Jordan, Kate Slater, Steven Cooper and John Rice.

QQI Level 5 (Minor Award in Personal Effectiveness and Recovery in Mental Health) THE Recovery College South East and the Kilkenny & Carlow Education and Training Board hosted a wonderful celebratory evening in Langton’s Set Theatre on Wednesday 11th June. Ten hardworking students were presented with their Certificates on completion of

the QQI Level 5 Minor Award, Personal Effectiveness and Recovery in Mental Health. There to present the Certificates was David Heffernan, Head of Mental Health Services, South East Community Health Care. This course was based on a co-produced project between

The Recovery College South East & Kilkenny & Carlow Education and Training Board. The course was co-facilitated by Mags Lynch – Recovery Educator Facilitator, The Recovery College South East and Nicole Kenny, Facilitator, Kilkenny & Carlow Education and Training Board.

To quote one of the participants: “Many of us who struggle with mental health issues find getting back into education intimidating. Learning requires discipline and focus – qualities we may struggle to develop at the best of times. We can feel pulled in opposite

directions wanting to embrace the positive challenge of education, while dreading the fear of failure yet again. Perhaps this is why the Recovery College’s QQI course worked so well, it focused on us participating as a group and drawing on our wide ranging experiences, rather than having us obsess about exams, percentages and grading. Yes, there were assignments to be completed and deadliness to be met, however, in tackling subjects like CHIME (Connection, Hope, Identity, Meaningful & Empowerment), group dynamics, narrative/

storytelling etc. we were encouraged by the facilitators to tap into and draw on our own ‘life’s rich tapestry’. Perhaps this is what made the learning more real and meaningful. The group contained a diversity of human experiences and it was deeply enriching to be a part of it all. Heartfelt thanks to all involved”. We hope that this is just the first of many co-produced learning experiences by The Recovery College South East and the Kilkenny & Carlow Education and Training Board.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Feature News

Main entrance to castle door breached as crowds gather on Parade

Lord Ossory (James Butler) and his Wife Lady Ossory (Sybil Mildred Fellowes)

In early May 1922, nearly two months prior to the official beginning of the Civil War, Kilkenny anti-Treaty IRA units took over 15 buildings in Kilkenny City, most notably St Canice’s Cathedral and Kilkenny Castle. In this, the final week The Kilkenny Observer in conjunction with Cois Céim take a look at the taking of Kilkenny Castle, Lord Ossory’s response and the capture of Kilkenny prison. Kilkenny Castle: After a night of quietness the citizens were alarmed by the resumption of hostilities on Wednesday morning. Soldiers of the regular forces attacked the Castle from various vantage points. All the city shops were closed and the streets deserted, machine gun and rifle fire resounded all over the city. It was evident that all other outposts held by the Executive forces were either surrendered or evacuated, the Castle the last stronghold held by the Executive would be attacked. The Castle possessed many

advantages which were not a feature of other posts held by the Irregulars. The fortifications were capable of resisting attack, and the frequent fusillade of machine gun fire directed against it, made it seem unassailable. A determined onslaught was made on the Castle shortly after 8’oclock . An armoured car was placed in position and two assaults were directed against the building. The massive oak gate leading into the courtyard was rushed and to protect the invading force from attack a cordon of troops was placed

across the Parade. (How the Castle was rushed) Wednesday May 03rd The castle was the last of the posts held in the city by the irregular forces of the I.R.A. was surrendered to the regular troops at 9.00 p.m. Earlier in the day the regular troops opened the assault with machine gun and rifle fire. About 3 o’clock a small party of troops smashed in some panels with their rifle butts. Four soldiers rushed the entrance and called on the occupants to surrender. Machine gun fire was opened

The main entrance to Kilkenny Castle. The massive solid oak door shows the breaches made on it by the attacking party.

on them and one of the party was seriously wounded obliging them to retire taking their comrade with them. The attack was continued and towards 6 o’clock when the replying fire became weaker the gate was again rushed. In the gate entrance three men of the regular forces were wounded by the machine gun fire. Intermittent fire contin-

ued until nine o’clock, when the last assault was made on the entrance. A party of troops reached the remaining barriers and an armoured car was driven through the passage into the court yard where the machine gun was trained on the windows. Parties of troops rushed forward escaping the cross fire The defending Irregulars

then surrendered and together with their arms, one Lewis machine gun and ammunition were taken to the military barracks. The news that the unofficial forces had capitulated quickly spread and throngs gathered on the Parade. Cheer after cheer was raised as the troops marched out of the Castle in charge of the seventeen prisoners. Many

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Feature

J T Prout, leader of Free State forces in Kilkenny . This image is of him on main Street Carrick on Suir outside Carraig Hotel in August 1922

Kilkenny Prison: O.C.M Ruth, I.R.A. Barracks Parliament Street, took over Kilkenny prison on Tuesday evening. Arriving at the prison with a number of men, he demanded admission and on the gate being opened by the warden the latter was held up and the keys demanded. These were surrendered and a guard placed in occupation of the prison. On the Friday evening a party of irregular troops from the police barracks in Parliament St. entered the bonded stores and seized forty casks of whiskey and rum and conveyed it to the prison. The matter was reported to Col. Prout who proceeded to the prison at 6.00 a.m. and informed the leader of the irregulars that unless the goods seized were returned to their rightful owners and the prison evacuated before 6.00 that evening he would take the building by force of arms. The Mayor Ald. Peter DeLoughry had been working for peace and was acting as a liaison officer between both sections. After long negotiations he was authorised to inform Col. Comdt. Prout that the Army Executive were willing to hand over the whiskey but would Prisoners in Kilkenny Barracks. They were all released on Saturday evening May 6

of the irregulars had escaped through the Castle grounds. The prisoners were escorted under armed guard to the military barracks where at the directions of General Prout were provided with food. Lord Ossory will not leave Kilkenny “J’Y SUIS J’Y RESTE” Here I am, here I stay, Lord

Ossory stated to the Kilkenny People. He added “during my experiences with the siege I received marked courtesy from both sides. I have been through the European war and did not mind it. But Lady Ossory has not had that experience so her nerves are somewhat upset. We leave on Friday morning for England in order that she may have

a short rest. Besides the Castle apartments are open to the four winds of Heaven. But please state in the Kilkenny People that we are coming back and hope to have a happy time in the old city. If they want me to leave Kilkenny they will have to shoot me, and I don’t think any Irishman will do that, I look forward to a good time in Ireland. “

not evacuate the prison. The Col. declined these terms and intimated his fixed intention to attack the prison unless it was vacated. Finally the Officer in command of the prison agreed to evacuate it. Troops from G.H.Q. went into occupation , the Governor was reinstated and the whiskey retained in the prison until it is withdrawn by the traders to whom it belonged or transferred to the bonded stores in Chapel Lane. Names of the wounded Pte John Burke Co.Dublin thigh and leg. Pte Con Reilly Co.Dublin leg Pte Lar O’Daly Co. Dublin leg Pte. J.J.Kavanagh Dublin thigh. Pte. M O’Neill Dublin thigh. Pte Patrick Kavanagh, Dublin, leg. Pte Tom Morris, Dublin, shoulder. Pte Dan Conway, Co Tipp. Leg. Pte John Martin, shoulder. Pte. Thos Young, shin. Pte Michael O’Neill wounded by a dum dum bullet. All the above with the exception of O’Neill were wounded in the charge on the Castle. Four of the Executive troops were wounded. Commdt Brennan in charge at the castle was wounded in the face.

Diary of recent events in Kilkenny: Tuesday Apr25th Kilkenny prison taken over by O.C. M.Ruth I.R.A.Barracks Parliament Street, under Four Courts Army Executive. Friday April 28th, Bonded stores taken over by same force. The same night the whiskey was removed to the prison. Saturday morning April 29th, Lt. Col. Prout O.C Dail Garrison Kilkenny Barracks issues ultimaton to the prison. Saturday evening the prison and whiskey is surrendered to Lt Col Prout. Monday May 01st. Several positions in the city occupied by Executive Forces. Tuesday May 02nd Fight begins and continues all day. Dail forces attack positions held by Executive forces. All positions surrendered or evacuated except the Castle. Wednesday May 03rd. Attack on the Castle all day, the surrender comes at 9’0 clock. Dail forces take the castle and prisoners. Sources: Kilkenny People April /May 1922 , Mr. T.J. Moran, photographer, James’ Street, Kilkenny, Rothe House, Kilkenny, Cois Céim, Saturday Walkers group and Eoin Walsh.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Healthy roast dinner Prep: 15 mins Cook: 50 mins Serves: 2

Cook a healthy, low-fat version of roast beef for two, made with lean, juicy steak and roasted veg, plus gravy on the side. Ingredients • 285g medium potatoes, thickly sliced • 4 small carrots (160g), halved lengthways • 2 x 80g red onions, cut into quarters • 170g large Brussels sprouts (about 8-10), trimmed • 2½ tsp rapeseed oil • 2 tsp thyme leaves • 2 tsp balsamic vinegar • 1 large garlic clove, finely grated • 2 pinches of English mustard powder • 170g thick, lean fillet steak • ½ tsp vegetable bouillon powder

STEP 3 Meanwhile, mix 1 tsp of the vinegar with the garlic, remaining thyme and oil, the mustard and plenty of black pepper. Rub this over the

Prep: 10 mins Serves: 4 Treat yourself to an indulgent, creamy vanilla milkshake with our classic recipe. This easy drink is perfect for customising with indulgent toppings. Ingredients • 200g vanilla ice cream • 500ml semi-skimmed milk, or whole milk • 2 tsp vanilla extract • melted white chocolate and sprinkles, to serve (optional) Method STEP 1 Blitz the ice cream, milk and vanilla extract in a blender until combined and creamy. Pour into a large jug.

Method STEP 1 Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Bring a large pan of water to the boil and cook the potatoes for 5 mins. Drain, reserving the water. STEP 2 Toss the potatoes, carrots, onions and sprouts with 2 tsp of the oil to coat. Arrange on a nonstick baking sheet, spaced apart. Scatter with 1 tsp of the thyme, grind over some black pepper, then roast for 30 mins.

Vanilla milkshake

STEP 2 Dip the rims of four glasses in the melted white chocolate, then some sprinkles, if you like. Leave to set slightly, then divide the milkshake between the glasses. You can customise your shake with different toppings, such as mini cookies, marshmallows, pretzels, sweets and squirty cream. steak, put in a shallow dish and set aside. Mix the rest of the vinegar with the bouillon and 125ml of the reserved water from step 1, then set aside. After 30 mins, turn the veg over and roast for 15 mins more. STEP 4 Meanwhile, heat a small non-stick frying

pan over a medium-high heat. Lift the steak out of the marinade, shake off the excess and fry for 2-3 mins on each side until cooked to your liking. Remove to a board and leave to rest. Pour the leftover marinade into the frying pan and bubble until thickened slightly to make a gravy. Slice the steak and serve with the roast veg and gravy on the side.

Vegan salad bowl Prep: 15 mins Serves: 4 Whip up an easy vegan salad, with beans, radish, pickled cabbage and couscous. Bursting with flavour, it makes a satisfying dinner or lunch on the go. Ingredients • 200g couscous • 400g can mixed beans • 1 tsp olive oil • 1⁄2 tsp chilli flakes • 3⁄4 small bunch of dill, torn into sprigs • 2 watermelon radishes or 6 small ones, sliced • 1⁄2 cucumber, peeled into ribbons For the quick pickle • 1 large red onion, finely sliced • 1⁄4 small red cabbage, finely sliced • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar • 1 tbsp caster sugar

• 1⁄4 small bunch of dill, leaves picked Method STEP 1 First, make the pickle. Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl with 1 tsp flaky sea salt, then cover and set aside until needed.

Method STEP 1 Blitz the ice cream, milk and vanilla extract in a blender until combined and creamy. Pour into a large jug. STEP 2 Dip the rims of four glasses in the melted white chocolate, then some sprinkles, if you like. Leave to set slightly, then divide the milkshake between the glasses. You can customise your shake with different toppings, such as mini cookies, marshmallows, pretzels, sweets and squirty cream.

Strawberry smoothie Prep: 5 mins Serves: 1

STEP 2 Mix the couscous with 280ml boiling water in a bowl, cover and leave for 4 mins, then fluff up with a fork. Set aside to cool slightly.

Get your fruit fix with our strawberry smoothie made with banana and orange juice. It’s free from dairy, so it’s vegan too – making it a great start to anyone’s day.

STEP 3 Meanwhile, drain and rinse the beans, tip into a bowl, then stir in the olive oil and chilli flakes along with a little seasoning.

Ingredients • 10 strawberries, hulled (approx 175g) • 1 small banana, sliced • 100ml orange juice, chilled

STEP 4 Mix most of the dill through the couscous and season. To assemble, spoon the quick pickle, couscous, radishes, beans and cucumber into separate parts of each bowl. Top the pickle with the reserved dill and grind over some black pepper.

Method STEP 1 Blitz the strawberries in a blender with the banana and orange juice until smooth. STEP 2 Pour the smoothie into a tall glass to serve.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Advertisement TV & Streaming

to stream this week on Netflix

The coolest television shows of all time ... PART 2 NYPD Blue NYPD Blue is an American police procedural drama television series that reflects the struggles of the fictional 15th Precinct detective squad in Manhattan. The series was initially broadcast on the ABC network and ran from September 1993 to March 2005. NYPD Blue received critical acclaim with praise directed toward its realistic portrayal of the cast’s professional and personal lives. Six Feet Under The American drama television series follows the lives and daily activities of the Fisher family, who own and operate a funeral home in Los Angeles. The series spanned 63 episodes across five seasons. ER ER is an American medical drama television series that premiered in September 1994. The show follows the physicians and staff members of the emergency room (ER) of the fictional County General

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To save his nation from the ultimate threat, Bauer must race against the clock to figure out terrorist plots and end them once and for all. 24 premiered in November 2001, and spanned 192 episodes across eight seasons. Frasier The series follows the life and shenanigans of psychiatrist Fraiser Crane after he returns to his hometown of Seattle, Washington, to build a new life as a radio personality. The TV show premiered in September 1993, and ran for 11 seasons. The Shield American crime drama, The Shield, follows the activities of a new division of the Los Angeles Police Department, that’s been set up to control and maintain peace in the fictional district of Farmington, which has a particularly bad history of drug trafficking, prostitution and gang activity. The Shield premiered on March 12, 2002, and ran for 88 episodes across seven seasons. The Walking Dead This American post-apocalyp-

tic horror television series was based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Charlie Adlard. It’s about a group of survivors that are trying to stay alive while being consistently hunted by flesh-eating zombies, known as ‘walkers’. The Walking Dead premiered in October 2010, and ran for 146 episodes across 10 seasons. Roots Roots is a 2016 remake of the 1977 miniseries of the same name. It first aired in May 30 2016, and chronicles the life and events of an African man that was sold as a slave in the United States of America. Roots ran for a single season with a total of four episodes. 15 The shows first season focuses on the investigation into the disappearance of a young boy and the strange goings-on in and around the town in which it’s set: Hawkins, Indiana. Also, a young girl appears out of nowhere that has some unusual psychokinetic abilities. Final part next week

A brilliant adaptation of Homer’s Odyssey, O Brother, Where Art Thou? is definitely among the lesser-seen works by the Coen brothers, which is a shame because it is right up there with their very best. Featuring a fantastic central cast, the 2000 film follows the misadventures of three prisoners who break free from a chain gang. Set during the Great Depression, the brothers draw inspiration from various sources ranging from the Greek epic to the brilliant 1941 masterpiece Sullivan’s Travels by Preston Sturges. The film is a hilarious cinematic experience, and Roger Deakins’

In back-to-back dramatic roles, Jim Carrey followed up his 1998 success of The Truman Show with Man on the Moon — a tempestuous Andy Kauffman biopic — the following year, a film that would signpost the personal troubles ahead for the actor as he struggled with the demands of the method acting performance. Whilst a success, the film paled in comparison to the cult popularity of 2004’s Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Michel Gondry’s heartbreaking science-fiction romance that spoke to a surreal reality of an ever more technologically intrigued world. In his most emotionally wrought performance to date, Carrey demonstrates the true range of his acting, with his historic comedic wit playing a large part in the viewer’s empathy as his character’s life withers along with his reality.

It’s easy to get lost in the legendary status of Robert De Niro. The iconic actor has so many inspiring accolades to his name across several imperative roles that his place in cinema’s pantheon is guaranteed. One film, however, that doesn’t get the respect it deserves is Meet The Parents, the Jay Roach 2004 film from 2000. 22 years later, it stands up as a wholesome family film. Starring De Niro alongside Ben Stiller, the two actors deliver a pulverising comedic performance, with De Niro operating as the ultimate straight man. Packed to the brim with cringing moments of embarrassingly funny situations, this is a classic film worthy of your time.

Meaghan now looks to other streamers Netflix has now been trying to make economically sound decisions given its current predicament. The streaming giant has lost over 200,000 subscribers and is incurring huge losses due to low stock prices and other factors. As The Kilkenny Observer report recently, of all the projects it has stalled and/or cancelled, Pearl, an animated series produced by Meghan Markle and her production company, Archwell Production happens to be one of them. The actress is reportedly on the lookout for a new home for the series

amidst this cancellation. The series will primarily revolve around the journey of a 12-year-old girl who is inspired by the stories of various women in history. According to the Suits actress: “Like many girls her age, our heroine Pearl is on a journey of self-discovery as she tries to overcome life’s daily challenges.” The series, she says, was meant to celebrate “extraordinary women throughout history. Markle and her husband, Prince Harry, had struck a massive million-dollar deal with Netflix previously in the hopes

of developing several projects. At that time, they had just left the British Royal family and were hot news, several media giants, therefore, signed contracts with them, hoping to see some revenue-generating, sensational and explosive content. While Netflix was pretty underwhelmed by the duo’s creative output, Spotify was pretty miffed with them releasing just one podcast in a year. Currently, the couple are trending after reports of the Royal Family excluding them from the Queen’s Jubilee celebrations started making

rounds. While they’re heading for the United Kingdom to attend the ceremony, they will not be making a public appearance alongside the Queen since the latter only wants working members of the Royal Family to be there on the balcony with her. Currently, the duo are trying to find a new home for the series. According to a trusted source, “There was a huge feeling of excitement about Pearl and a hope that its journey is not over. Markle and Harry are not giving up on this project because Netflix said no.”

This apocalyptic sci-fi from Belgium will probably turn you off from flying any time soon. Set on a plane, the continuing series sees a red-eye hijacked by a soldier who, along with the rest of the passengers, ends up surviving a deadly global event down on the ground. Can they keep the plane going long enough to take them to safety? That premise alone should be enough to entice you to catch this excellent, tense thriller.

Hilary Swank is the big star at the heart of Away’s space drama. She plays Emma Green, a NASA astronaut and commander of an expedition to Mars. Things get off to a rocky start, and Emma’s international crew fill her with doubt over her ability to command. With time split between Earthbound drama and reliable entertainment above the stratosphere, Away, from 2020, is mostly successful in landing an all-rounded journey.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Feature

The Woodgate sculpture and its amazing background story Possibly one of the sculptures that attracts most attention in Kilkenny city is that of Thomas Woodgate, which is situated outside The Kilkenny Courthouse at the Market Yard. Constructed by Kilkenny Company Stapleton Engineering, the story behind the monument is intriguing. The following is a synopsis of the story of Thomas Woodgate. A boy of 14, killed in the final weeks of World War I, is commemorated with this public sculpture in Kilkenny. Thomas Woodgate duped recruiting officers by claiming he was 18 and enlisted in the Royal Air Force on September 19, 1918. He left his home in Mill Street in Callan, Co Kilkenny, to begin a journey to join his training squadron in Egypt. He sailed on the RMS Leinster steamship from Dún Laoghaire, then known as Kingstown, on October 10. However, shortly after leaving the harbour, a German submarine attacked the ship with torpedoes and sank it. The Irish boy was one of 569 men, women and children who lost their lives in the attack. Thomas’s tombstone in the military cemetery in Grangegorman in Dublin stated he was 18.

The Thomas Woodgate memorial, constructed by Stapleton Engineering Kilkenny, at The Market Yard, Kilkenny

Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, chair of the Joint Policing committee and John Joe Cullen of the Kilkenny Historical Re-Enactment Group raise The Irish Tri-colour at The Thomas Woodgate monument at the Court House Kilkenny

His true age was revealed a century later when the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee was organising a public memorial for the 829 who lost their lives in the war who were from Co Kilkenny. WW1 Memorial Committee chairman Donal Croghan said the ages of those who died were being included on the newly built memorial. When Thomas’s age was being checked, the records in Callan parish showed he was born and baptised on New Year’s Eve 1903. The Great War memorial was unveiled in 2018. Mr Croghan said the sacrifice of Kilkenny soldiers was immense. “On a single day, seven women living in Walkin Street received

Relatives of Thomas Woodgate who laid a wreath at the monument in 2020

news that they were widowed by the war,” he said. The monument is also dedicated to all young people who left Ireland to fight in conflicts around the world and it commemorates those who lost their lives in the sinking of the RMS Leinster. Thomas Woodgate was son of Edward J. and Hanora Woodgate, from Mill Street in Callan, County Kilkenny. Thomas was the youngest Irishman of the Allied Forces to be killed by enemy fire during World War One. This project was spearheaded by ‘The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee’ and supported by Kilkenny County Council and Martin Stapleton Engineering

Committee members of The Great War Memorial Committee pictured at the launch of The Woodgate Memorial in 2020

The inscription on the Woodgate plaque

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Advertisement Recruitment

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Community & GAA Notes

CLARA SENIOR SERVICES. Clara Cairde Club and Canon Nolan Centre celebrated their 25th Birthday on Thursday 19th May in Clara Community Centre. Celebrations commenced with Mass at 12.00pm followed by presentation of certificates to Volunteers, lunch and dancing. U15s WIN Clara had a 2-12 to 3-8 win over battling John Lockes in Clara last Wednesday evening. Although backed by a strong breeze, Clara only led 1-8 to 1-4 at the interval, despite dominating possession. They had given up a soft goal by dithering in defence, and a ball that should have been long cleared ended up in the Clara net. However the Clara boys started the second half with real intent and a scintillating run by Sean Byrne ended with him crossing a lovely ball to Niall McCarthy, who finished coolly to the net. When Joe Power and Eoin Corr added points the lead was out to 9 points, 2-10 to 1-4, and this game looked done and dusted. But a debatable converted penalty threw Callan a lifeline and they soon added three points to leave just a goal between the sides. Clara needed some inspiration from somewhere and it was substitute Tom Boyle that provided it with a very slick point to lift the siege. Joe Power added his seventh of the day to go with his first half goal and it looked like the crisis was averted. But John Lockes concocted another goal and another point by them, which could just as easily have been a goal, had Clara clinging to a one point lead and anxious eyes on referee Colin Tobin. Thankfully he blew it up soon after and Clara hung on for the win. Padraic Meany and Hugh Kelly were the best of the winning defence, while Orí Phelan in goals saved their bacon on more than one occasion. Eoin Corr chipped in with three lovely points from midfield while Sean Byrne, Davy Barcoe and Joe Power were the pick of the forwards. Team - Orí Phelan, Daniel Murphy, James Cody, Tom Murphy. Padraic Meany, Hugh Kelly, Daniel Ryan. Luke Lawlor, Eoin Corr 0-3. Sean Byrne, Davy Barcoe 0-1, Niall McCarthy 1-0. John Bergin, Joe Power 1-7, 0-4f, Bill Kealy. Subs used Conor Galvin, Tom Boyle 0-1. CAMOGIE Well done to Mary O Connell who played for Kilkenny seniors on Saturday as they beat Dublin in the Leinster final on a 5-11 to 0-11 scoreline. Congratulations also to the six Clara girls who received their 2021 All Ireland Minor medals at a function in the Springhill Hotel on Friday night. As well as the medals the girls also received the game jersies that they wore, presented to them by Glanbia Nutritionals CEO Brian Phelan, courtesy of Glanbia

sponsorship. A great night was had by all JUNIORS LOSE Clara were comprehensively beaten by Mooncoin in a Junior C game in Clara on Sunday. Clara could only call on 13 available players so Mooncoin obliged by playing 13 aside. Mooncoin were soon into their stride and led at the break 3-6 to 0-1, the lone Clara score coming from a deflected Claire Murphy shot. Emma Corr opened the second half with a pointed free and Clara were much more competitive in this half when wind assisted. However Mooncoin still outscored them 2-3 to 0-4 and ran out 5-9 to 0-5 winners. Best for the losers were Aine McDonald, Margaret Kehoe and Emma Corr. Team - Aoife Glynn, Rachel Brickell, Aine McDonald. Margaret Kehoe, Peig Carrigan, Anna Walpole. Emma Corr, Róisín Kealy. Niamh award, Aoife Ward, Maria Shortall. Claire Murphy, Aoife Treacy. CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s Club Lotto (May 12th). Numbers drawn were 3, 4, 17, 22 Bonus 8. Next week’s big Prize will be €8,600 (May 17th). www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw . 1 Anne Loy. 2. Catriona Brennan c/o N Loy. 3. Sandra Murphy c/o Dan Driscoll. 4. Vicky Trehy c/ JJ Cullen. 5. Seanie Barry c/o Esther Maher. 6. Ann Massey c/o Eileen Kinchella. 7. Mary Bryan c/o JJ Cullen. 8. Mrs Jackie Smith Ralph.9. Padraig O’Neill c/o Online.10. Maria O’Shea c/o online. Thank you for your continued support PLAYER NEWS Well done to Mikey Butler and Paddy Deegan who both had great games for Kilkenny Senior Hurlers in the Leinster Champions on Saturday v Dublin. The lads are out again next Saturday v Wexford in Nowlan Park. We wish Mikey, Paddy, Huw and Conor the best of luck as they aim to secure a Leinster Final berth. Well done to Brian Dowling’s Kilkenny Camogie that won the Leinster Final last Saturday with players Laura Murphy and Danielle Quigley forming part of the panel We would also like to congratulate a host of young Gaels doing their stuff with Kilkenny development squads on both Hurling and Camogie - all representing their club at the highest levels. MATCH DAY PARKING On Saturday evening the Leinster championship clash between Kilkenny and Wexford takes place at Nowlan Park. O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club on the Hebron Rd will accommodate parking and have its club facilities open. It will require all hands on deck so we can provide the safest hospitality for big match days at Nowlan Park. Thanks to everyone for their constant help and support.

Six happy Clara girls who received their 2021 All Ireland medals on Friday night. L. to R. Rachel Whelan, Katie Ryan, Laoise Nolan, Emma Shortall, Gráinne Glynn, Keara Ryan.

Congratulations to Emeralds club players Simon, Callum, Oisin, Cian, Conor and Nathan, and all on the Coláiste Mhuire (Johnstown) school team who won the Leinster Final. SUPPORT CLUB TEAMS We are currently in the thick of our adult and juvenile summer leagues. Fuxtures are constantly being notified on our social media pages and updates on Kilkenny GAA and Kilkenny Camogie websites. Please support club teams. The players and mentors put a tremendous amount of work in and really appreciate the support when it comes. We’re all building to those big championship days. All the players and mentors ask is that we build it together. GET YOUR CLUB LOTTO TICKET NOW www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support. EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO May 9th prize fund was: €7,800. Jackpot: €5,800. Numbers drawn: 5, 10, 16, 27, bonus no 11. No winner and one match 3 winner: JCMS Tobin. Promoters prize: S. Hennessy. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Martin Hayde, Maire Dollard, Cillian & Neasa, B. Troy, Willie O’Grady. Next draw takes place on Monday, May 16 in the Clubrooms. Results next week. URLINGFORD TOWN TEAM Urlingford town, through.Urlingford Town Team, has been shortlisted in the ie.digital Town Awards in the Digital Rising Star category for their project in the library. Best of luck to Urlingford Town Team and well done to all involved! MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4 September 2022: LTI is recruiting for the new programme in September 2022. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact us for an expression of interest form. More details can be found on our website www.millfrcurlingford.com BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5 September 2022: We are currently taking names for the Healthcare QQI Level 5 programme starting September 2022. Please contact us if you are interested in completing this course. Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine. Counselling Services: Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus.General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment. Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off. Contact number for the Centre 056 8838466. URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This week’s winner of Split the Pot was Mary and Laura Cleere who won €314. Congrats girls! Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town with proceeds this week going to Emeralds GAA Club for next week’s draw. Be in it to win it!! URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP

In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396. URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address. DUNNAMAGGIN GAA LAST MAN STANDING WINNER After many weeks it really was a case of last man standing when Enda Maloney from Mayo finally won the Last Man Standing competition ran by the Dunnamaggin Adult Hurlers. Many thanks to all who supported this Fundraiser. Dunnamaggin GAA Lotto Syndicate. The third year of the Dunnamaggin GAA Lotto Syndicate will come to an end very shortly on Saturday May 28th.Current Members must have renewed by 28th May to be eligible for subsequent draws. We are now in a position to open it to new members who wish to join. This syndicate has been a vital fundraiser for the club and has allowed us to complete our Juvenile Pitch upgrade, install walkways around both our pitches in Kilmoganny and Dunnamaggin and improve facilities for our players. We are about to continue with our development plans of an electronic scoreboard, new gym and ball wall. If you wish to Renew or join please contact any of the following committee members:Anne Davis, Billy Heffernan, Lorraine Moore, Colin Herity, Derek McLoughlin, Joe Sheridan, Kevin O’Neill, Ger O’Neill Thank you all again for your support. LOCAL LOTTO RESULTS LottoWinning Numbers for May 9th: 4, 6, 35. No Winner. Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30. O & A Buckley(Olive Buckley), Bob Doherty(Maud Doherty ), Maria Reid( Johnno RReid), DHC ( DHC ),A. A. C Hickey ( Anne Hickey ) Jackpot next week (May 16th) €2,050. Venue Delaney’s Bar Kells at 9pm. All Welcome DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB Second league win for minors. Our minors were out again May 13th against Piltown. A great game of football by both sides. Dunnamaggin started strong in the first half but Piltown never gave up and started to come back in the second half but it was Dunnamaggin who came out on top. Well done to all the players, a great team performance. MADGE’S GARDEN Markets at Madges Garden: Dates for your diary the last Sunday of every month from May until October inclusive and then our fourth annual Christmas Market on December 4th - May 29th – Flower Theme: June 26th– Mid Summer Theme: July 31st– Fairy Village Theme (celebrating 1 year of Slí na nAingeal): August 28th – Vintage Theme (Best Dressed Competition – Afternoon Tea Tent): Sept 25th – Harvest Theme (Scarecrow Competition – Apple Pressing): Oct 30th – Halloween Theme (Get your scare on!): Dec 4th- 4th Annual Christmas Market with Santa. At Every Market Pop Up Café – Eamo’s BBQ – Food & Craft Stalls – Competitions – Raffles – FUN for all the FAMILY ST’ JOSEPH’S HOME St Joseph’s home has a HCA summer job availability for any nursing, social care or healthcare students in the locality. Please get in touch with Lisa on 051-648091 or email sjhome15@gmail.com. Thank you

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes NATIONAL VOLUNTEERING WEEK National Volunteering Week takes place from the 16th to the 21st of May we will be hosting events in Kilkenny Volunteer Centre. Go to www.volunteerkilkenny.ie to see the programme of events taking place. KILKENNY AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY GATHERINGS Kilkenny Age Friendly Older Peoples Council would like to hear from you. It is important that we hear the voice of all older people throughout the county and to ensure that we are doing so we are holding a number of Age Friendly Community Gatherings where we invite older people to come along and let us know what they see as the issues that are relevant and important to them. These Community Gatherings will be run at the following locations and dates: Ferrybank Community Centre. 20th May 2022. Castlecomer Community Hall. 15th June 2022. Mullinavat Community Centre. 30th June 2022. Graiguenamanagh Hub. July 2022 tbc. Please come along and bring some friends. It will start with Registration Tea/Coffee at 9.15 and finishing at 12.30/1pm. If you would like further information please email agefriendlycounty@gmail.com or text 0876210589. THE KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL The festival is back this year in Gowran Park, and it will take place on Sunday 3rd July featuring a host of top-class Country Singers. Performing on the day will be Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Robert Mizzell, Trudi Lalor, Jimmy and Claudia Buckley with backing band The Conquerors. Tickets now on Sale and for further information, check out kilkennycountrymusicfestival.ie or email kkcountrymusic@gmail.com CLEERE’S BAR Big John’s Karoaoke taking place on Saturday, 21st May. Promises to be a great night out. GOWRAN FESTIVAL OF SPEED The festival is taking place on Sunday, 21st August. Tickets available online, www.gowranpark.ie DOG FUNDRAISER Gowran GAA will hold a fundraiser on Sunday, 29th May at Kilkenny Greyhound Track. GOWRAN PARISH Congratulations to all who are receiving their 1st Holy Communion this weekend in Gowran. Thanks to all the parents who have supported them in their preparation. Offertory Collection Bags will be passed around after the Prayers of the Faithful in accordance with Diocesan regulations. Please facilitate the passing around of the Bags and bring them to the altar rails when collection is completed. The Irish Catholic Newspaper are for Sale from the Sacristy. Paper contains up to date popular news of Catholic and Christian interest, the cost is €3. If you like it and would like to order one each week just give your name to Fr. Dalton, Nellie Brett, or Ann Kelly (Dungarvan )and one will be retained for you for collection. KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre will be hosting an information stand at the Kilkenny Farmer’s Market on the Parade on Thursday, 19th May from 11 to 3pm. They will also be holding a volunteer drop in morning in Kilkenny on Saturday, 21st May at their centre is Irishtown, Kilkenny from 10am to 1pm. GAA WRAP – UP MICHAEL O’LEARY CAREY PLAYS PART AS KILKENNY IMPRESSIVELY DISMANTLE DUBLIN Michael Carey had another good solid performance as Kilkenny easily dismantled Dublin 3-25 to 0-17 in Parnell Park last Saturday night. Attention now turns to their clash at home to Wexford this Saturday Evening at 6pm in Nowlan Park knowing that victory will set-up a Leinster Final showdown with either Galway or Dublin on the June Bank Holiday Weekend, Saturday June 4th. LANGTON EXCELLS AS U20s SURVIVE LATE WEXFORD RALLY Paddy Langton gave a superb performance and scored a vital point at a vital stage as Kilkenny held off a late rally from Wexford to win the Leinster U-20 title by a solitary point, 1-13 to 0-15 in Netwatch Cullen Park, Carlow last Monday week. Kilkenny now play Limerick in the All-Ireland Final next Sunday Afternoon at 1.30pm in FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles, before the Tipperary and Cork Munster Senior Championship game. CAMOGIE GIRLS EASE TO PROVINCIAL GLORY Congratulations to Steffi and Tiffany Fitzgerald and Ciara O’Keeffe along with Selector Pat O’Neill as Kilkenny eased to a 5-11 to 0-13 win against Dublin in the Leinster Senior Final last Saturday. Attention will now turn to their opening All-Ireland Senior Championship game this coming Saturday away to Down. INTERMEDIATES WIN IN MOONCOIN Following defeat to Conahy Shamrocks in their opening game of Division 3 of the Senior League, the Intermediate Hurlers brushed aside All-Ireland Junior Champions Mooncoin 1-22 to 0-16 in Mooncoin on Sunday. They will travel to Hugginstown for their final group game on Saturday May 28th against Carrickshock. Meanwhile, the two Junior Teams are in action next Sunday. The Junior 1sts are at home to Thomastown at 11.30am, while the Junior B Team are away to near neighbours Blacks and Whites at 7pm.

MINOR HURLERS MAINTAIN UNBEATEN RECORD FOLLOWING DRAMATIC THRILLER The Young Irelands Minor Hurlers secured a last gasp victory against O’Loughlin Gaels last week, when Ben Phelan struck over an injury-time point to win 4-12 to 4-11. In a dramatic contest, A Thomas Langton goal late in the first-half levelled proceedings as the Teams went in all square at the interval - 1-5 each - but the real drama occurred in the Second-Half. The O’Loughlin lads started the second-half brightly and a goal put them 4 points clear, before Young Irelands enjoyed a purple patch courtesy of a hat-trick of goals between the 33rd and 43rd minutes from Thomas Langton and a brace from Cian Phelan to put the Gowran lads four points ahead. 4-6 to 2-8. O’Loughlin Gaels added a pointed free to narrow the gap, but Young Irelands replied with four consecutive points to open up a 7 point lead entering the final 10 minutes (4-10 to 2-9). The margin was narrowed to three points as Greg Kelly converted a penalty after he himself was fouled (4-10 to 3-10), before both teams exchanged points as Young Irelands maintained a three point lead entering injury-time. 4-11 to 3-11. Fionn Lawlor struck a superb goal as he appeared to have given O’Loughlin Gaels a share of the spoils, but that was until Ben Phelan had the final say to bring this titanic drama to a pulsating conclusion. Meanwhile on Thursday, the Minor B Hurlers lost 4-20 to 5-6 against Tullaroan after having made a blistering start to lead 2-0 to 0-0 after just 6 minutes. U15s RECORD SECOND STRAIGHT VICTORY The U-15 Hurlers recorded a Second straight victory as they defeated Piltown 3-13 to 1-12 with Thomas Langton leading the way with 1-8(0-4 frees 0-1’65). Goals from Jake Kelly and Billy O’Keeffe gave them a 2-6 to 1-7 lead at half-time, before Young Irelands third goal from Thomas Langton in the 45th minute put them firmly on their way to victory. It was a solid Team Performance from Young Irelands with also plenty of room for improvement having shot 14 wides in the process. Josef Walsh’s heroics in the first-half were decisive, while defensively they were very strong with Matthew Murray giving a colossal at Centre-Back and Philip Middleton, Keelan Barcoe and Finn Butler doing plenty of sterling work. Ciaran Carter and Kieran Timmins grafted tenaciously in Midfield ably assisted by Sam Brennan who roved around to good effect, while Thomas Langton led the way superbly in attack with Aidan Keating always showing prominence while in possession. Meanwhile, the U-13 hurlers lost 1-11 to 2-4 to Ballyhale Shamrocks last Saturday, while they were also in action last night (Tuesday) against Piltown in Gowran. U16s MOST IMPRESSIVE IN CLARA The Young Irelands U-16 Camogie girls were most impressive in winning 5-14 to 1-7 away to Clara and gaining their first win of the League campaign. PRIMARY SCHOOLS WRAP- UP The Gowran Primary School Camogie Team stormed their way to the Cumann Na Mbunscoil Roinn B Semi-Final as they produced a scintillating performance in winning 10-3 to 2-4 away to Thomastown. Meanwhile, the Gowran National School Hurling U-11 Team won 4-5 to 3-4 away to Kilkenny CBS, while the U-13s snatched a last gasp goal to gain a 2-7 all draw at home to Scoil McCauley Rice National School. JIM CARTER U12 HURLING TOURNAMENT On Saturday, there is a U-12 Hurling Tournament in honour of a great Young Irelands stalwart Jim Carter.Eight Teams will compete with Cup and Shield Finals taking place. The action starts in Castle Ellis on Saturday Morning from 9.30am. CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results May 12th. Nos: 9 19 22 27. Jackpot: €9,700 not won Draw Prizes – €50: Sean Kennedy c/o online. €25 each Ann O’Neill c/o online €25 each Marie Gough c/o Declan Gough. €25 each Richard Hogan c/o online Co op draw ticket Des McGrath c/o Deirdre O’Reilly . Promotors prize Tommy Hackett New weeks draw €9,850 19h of May SUMMER CAMP 2022 Save the date for our hugely popular Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club Multi Activity Summer Camp. Week 1 - July 18th - 22nd. Week 2 - August 15th - 19th. Booking system launching shortly. KILKENNY REPRESENTATIVES Huge Congratulations to Kilkenny Camogie and our four Senior players Aoife Prendergast (Captain) Ciara Phelan, Niamh Phelan & Asha McHardy on their Leinster Final Win over Dublin. Also to Kilkenny GAA and Senior Hurlers Cillian and Evan on their win Saturday evening in Parnell Park against Dublin in the Snr Championship. Wishing the Kilkenny u20 team and our club players Padraic Moylan (Captain), Niall Rowe, Timmy Clifford and Harry Shine

Congratulations to Kilkenny Camogie and our four Senior players Aoife Prendergast (Captain) Ciara Phelan, Niamh Phelan & Asha McHardy on their Leinster Final Win over Dublin. all the best as they take on Limerick in the All Ireland u20 Championship Final in Semple Stadium Sunday 22nd May at 1.30pm. Best of luck lads. CLUB RESULTS A busy week for our club players.In the St Canices Hurling League the Seniors had a great win over Tullaroan on Sunday morning in Tullaroan 7-18 to 5-14. Hard luck to the Junior A Hurlers who lost out to Graigue Ballycallan 0-15 to 1-14. Well done to our Minor A’s and B’s Teams who had strong wins. Minor A beat a strong Tullogher team 1-16 to 1-11 and Minor B’s who played Burren Rangers won 3-13 to 2-15. Well done to u15 hurlers. Both teams had good wins. U15 A’s beat Mooncoin 2-16 to 1-11 and the B team came out successful against Carlows Ballinkillen 7-7 to 3-6. Hard luck to the u13 A team who had a great game against the Village on the Kells Rd and unlucky to lose out. Hard luck to our Junior Camogie team who narrowly lost against the Black’s & Whites Sunday morning in Palmerstown. Well done to our u14A Camogie team who had a triumphant win against James Stephens. Well done girls. CLUB REGISTRATION Many thanks to all those who have registered to date. The closing date for registration this year of March 31st has passed, all members must be registered now to take to the field. Registration is available through the membership option on ClubZap and a phased payment option is available. Any members who are having difficulty paying online can contact a member from the executive to arrange a cash payment facility. Many thanks. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE OPEN Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is open on Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward . Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners card table. We are offering a particular welcome to our senior citizens members, it’s been a difficult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee and all the usuals. KILMANAGH CEMETERY MASS It is proposed to hold the cemetery mass in Ballykeeffe cemetery on Sunday 29th May at 7pm. CEMETERY CLEANUP Volunteers are gathering this Friday 20th at 7pm for a clean-up of Ballykeeffe cemetery. If you have an hour to spare, perhaps you might lend a hand. We could do with more volunteers from the Kilmanagh side of the parish. If you are cleaning your own grave, please take home any dead wreaths and rubbish, please don’t dump them in the cemetery or behind the grotto. HOLY COMMUNION CHURCH CLEAN With the Holy Communion next Saturday, we invite parents of the communion children, as well as others interested, to come along and help clean the church for the ceremony. This clean-up will take place next Thursday at 7.30pm. Bring along some cleaning items such as dusters and glass and furniture polish in case there’s not enough. FIRST HOLY COMMUNION Best wishes to the young people from our parish school who will receive their first Holy Communion next Saturday at 11am in Kilmanagh. LEAVING CERT MASS On Thursday, 2nd June, we will have a Mass for the intentions of the leaving cert students from our parish cluster, that is, Ballycallan, Tullaroan and Freshford. The readings and prayers will be led by students sitting exams. The Mass will take place in Kilmanagh at 7.30pm and will be broadcast vis the internet. All are welcome to attend.

MONTH’S MIND Month’s mind mass for John Maher, Brittas, Kilmanagh will take place in Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Kilmanagh on Saturday next, May 21st, at 6.30pm. 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. CALLAN GOLF CLUB Last week was a busy week for the lady golfers at Callan G.C. Monday 9th saw the Senior Ladies and Gents joining forces for a mixed champagne scramble event organised by the senior captains Joe Kavanagh and Mary Croke in aid of the purchase of a defibrillator. It proved a great success with the winning team of Eileen Cuddihy, Josie O’Gorman, Seamus Cuddihy and Coleman Loughnane coming in with a super 81pts. 2nd John Healy, Roger Kennedy, Caroline Healy, Melanie O’Brien. 3rd Jim Wellwood, Larry O’Shea, Geraldine O’Sullivan, Margaret O’Shea Tuesday 10th May. Ladies 18 Hole s/f. 1st Ann Wemyss 38pts (14). 2nd Betty McGrath 37pts (22). 9 Hole s/d. 1st Alice Walsh 17pts (26). 2nd Marie Costello 16pts (25) Senior Ladies Thurs 12 Hole. 1st Rose Brophy 29pts. 2nd Ellen O’Shea 28pts. 3rd Anne Phelan 26 pts. 4th Ann Needham 25pts. 5th Catherine Gibbons 25 pts c/b Congratulations to newer lady member Mary Kearney who had a Birdie on the 4th. There was no joy for Callan Ladies in the Revive Active Comp. against Carlow G.C. The ladies put up a very strong challenge bringing Carlow all the way in 4 matches and winning in one. Hard Luck ladies and well played. The Challenge Cup team gave it their best on Sunday against a very strong Waterford G.C. where Waterford came out on top. Good luck to Carlow and Waterford on the road ahead. Next week’s Tuesday competition will be sponsored by Miss Designer Golf PLAY IN PINK Friday 20th will see the fourball betterball competition in aid of Cancer Research with lots of great prizes and a super raffle on the day. There are a few spots left so hurry and book online at Callan G.C. or ring 056/7725136 to support this great cause. TUBORG PREMIER LEAGUE It was a fantastic night of Darts on the first night of the Tuborg Premier League in Andy’s Bar Ballyhale. The standard of Darts was unreal with plenty of high scoring and high finishing, the big crowd of players put on a great display of Darts that would be as good as watching it on TV. The Q/Finals put some of the top players against each other, the first Q/Final was between Adam Dee and Brendan Kelly with Brendan coming out on top, the 2nd Q/Final was David Murphy V Mark Cullen with David Murphy throwing great darts to beat Mark, the 3rd Q/ Final saw Mick Kelly against his good friend Michael Meaney with Mick Kelly winning a fantastic game, the last Q/ Final was Kieran Lennon V David Wall with Kieran using all his experience to defeat David. On to the S/Finals saw Brendan Kelly and David Murphy face off. And what a game it was with Brendan hitting the final double after David pushing him all the way, the 2nd S/final was on a par with the first one between Mick Kelly and Kieran Lennon after getting off to a great start Mick looked like winning it easy but Kieran fought back to win the game 3 / 2. The final was probably the best game of the night with Brendan Kelly showing his class winning the final by a score of 3 / 2. Everyone really enjoyed the night of Darts and are looking forward to coming again next week.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

Hurling matters

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB Leinster Senior Hurling Championship Parnell Park, Saturday May 14th Dublin 0-17 Kilkenny 3-25

KILKENNY reminded the hurling fraternity of their class with a resounding 17-point victory over Dublin at a sun-kissed Parnell Park, last Saturday evening. The win means that Brian Cody’s men are well-placed to secure a tilt at claiming a third Bob O’Keefe Cup on the bounce. It was more or less a full house at the Donnycarney venue, and those Gaels in attendance witnessed an emphatic second half performance from the Cats, as they laid down a marker for all those with designs on dethroning Limerick. The Noresiders made one enforced change, with Erins Own defender Conor Delaney replacing the commanding Huw Lawlor at full-back. Bainisteoir Brian Cody also made four other changes from the programme, with captain Richie Reid, Cian Kenny, Alan Murphy and Mossy Keoghan coming in for Conor Browne, James Maher, Cillian Buckley and Billy Ryan respectively. Those late change certainly proved dividends, as those players contributed 2-8 to the black and amber’s impressive total of 3-25. Tullaroan’s Mossy Keoghan notched 2-1, as yet again he demonstrated his eye for a goal in the rout of the previously unbeaten Metropolitans. The first half was very much evenly contested, with both sides squaring up to each other and not giving an inch as they wrestled for supremacy. The collisions were forceful and you got a sense that Mr. Cody had warned his charges to expect a physical encounter from Dublin, as Mattie Kenny searched for what would only have been the 2nd Leinster championship win over Kilkenny in almost 80 years. Both sides registered scores in the opening minute, with Adrian Mullen drawing first blood for the cats, before Dublin’s deadly placed ball specialist, Donal Burke levelled moments later. Whitehall Colmcille’s Daire Gray and The Village’s Cian Kenny exchanged points to leave the sides on 2 points apiece after just 2 minutes of frantic action in the capital. Dublin took the lead for the first time thanks to a nice

point from St Vincents midfielder Conor Burke. As both sides sought to take control of proceedings, the hits got a little harder and no quarter was given. On eight minutes Cian Kenny notched his second point of the day, as he looked right at home in the inside forward line, alongside Eoin Cody and Mossy. Kenny is a talented hurler and his touch was assured throughout the contest. Donal Burke then struck over a mighty free from way out the park to edge the hosts ahead, before Kilmacud’s Fergal Whitely withstood some serious Kilkenny defensive pressure and popped over a fine score. The Dublin faithful enjoyed that one as they found their voices! The visitors man of the moment, Cian Kenny then hit his third point of the day. The ciotóg cut across the park, scanning for options, before deciding to strike the shot and sent the sliotar between the posts. Moments later Glenmore’s Alan Murphy, reveling in the engine room, fired over a spectacular effort on half-way, to deadlock the contest again with 15 minutes gone. Walter Walsh then took possession and went on typical WW run, with a major on his mind. Conor Burke was attempting to halt the Tulloger-Rosbercon players run illegally, and referee Walsh played a good advantage, but called the play back for a free after Walter’s shot went wide. TJ Reid fired over his first point from the placed ball, with this his second effort of the game. TJ then notched a nice point from play on 20 minutes, only to see scores from Lucan Sarsfields Chris Crummey and another sumptuous effort from Na Fianna’s Donal Burke bring the sides level once again on 21 minutes. Clontarf man Paddy Smyth was then turned-over and from about ‘65 out, near the side line, Alan Murphy rifled over a lovely point. Ballyhale’s Adrian Mullen then sent over an incredible effort from longrange to put his team 2 ahead, but the frantic nature of the opening period continued and Dublin were soon level

Dubs defeated in Parnell pasting! Victory over Wexford will secure Cats Leinster Final berth Mossy striking home another fine goal!

All pix: Inpho Photography

again, thanks to points from the ‘Burke’s’, first Conor, then Donal. Then came the first Kilkenny major of the day. Dublin corner-back James Madden played a loose ball out of defence that was intercepted and moved quickly to Adrian Mullen on half-way. The Shamrocks man sent a searching ball deep into the Dublin back line where Mossy Keoghan and Cian Kenny

were lurking. Despite the attentions of both cornerbacks, Mossy showed great skill in getting the ball to hand, before drilling a real ‘daisy-cutter’ of a shot on the angle than beat the sky blues keeper Sean Brennan all ends up! 27 on the clock, the visitors 3 points ahead. St Vincents Rian McBride then struck over a fine point, and this was followed by another Donal Burke free.

The final two scores of the first half would come from the Cats. Alan Murphy hit his third of the day, before goal scorer, Keoghan beat his man to the ball, turned expertly and split the Dublin posts. Waterford whistler Thomas Walsh then blew for half-time with Kilkenny a goal to the good, 1-11 to Dublin’s 0-11. Brian Cody elected to make one change at the interval, with Thomastown’s John

Donnelly replacing Walter. The opening score of the second half came from the home side with Mark Schutte pointing 3 minutes into the 3rd quarter. The Cats responded immediately, that man Cian Kenny firing over a well taken point, his 4th of the game. O’Loughlin’s Paddy Deegan then slipped a pass to Adrian Mullen who rifled over a stunning point from inside his

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Hurling matters Cian Kenny was a thorn in the Dublin defence and hit 0-4

TJ takes a tumble - but finished the day with 1-7

Any feint hopes of a Dublin comeback were well and truly put to bed with 55 minutes played. Eoin Murphy’s long clearance was diverted into the path of TJ Reid. The Shamrocks legend took the ball and headed towards the home side’s goal. It appeared that Donnacha Ryan had bottled TJ up and thwarted the attack, but Reid held off Ryan’s somewhat illegal attempt to halt him and produced a magnificent batted finish to outsmart keeper Brennan and notch his 27th goal in championship hurling. Eamonn Dillon popped over a point for the sky blues just about one minute after his introduction, points were not what Mattie Kenny’s charges needed. The Cats then hit two scores backto-back, firstly from a TJ Reid free to put the Noresiders nine points to the good. Then Eoin Cody registered his first score of the game with an hour gone, but doubled his tally just 60 seconds later! Adrian Mullen who had been cleverly finding pockets of space all evening, was found nicely by Mikey Carey and rifled over his fourth point of the day. Moments later, Mullen struck over another welltaken score to make it his 5th, the former Young Hurler of the Year was thoroughly enjoying his midfield role and had given a masterly scoring performance. The next man in black and amber to raise a flag would be half-time substitute John Donnelly. The Thomastown man struck over a lovely point

to push his sides lead out to 14 points. TJ fired over another free to bring his tally for the day to 1-7. Donal Burke, who had been one of the better boys in blue, encapsulated Dublin’s evening by striking a very scorable free wide of Eoin Murphy’s post. Dicksboro’s Cillian Buckley who had been sprung from the bench during the second half, became the ninth Kilkenny player to get on the score sheet when he hit the 24th point of the day for those in stripes. It was fitting that the final point of the day came from the hurl of TJ Reid. A monster free from distance by the Shamrocks man made it a double score game as Waterford ref Thomas Walsh blew for full-time and put the home side out of their misery. Final score at Parnell Park, Dublin 0-17, Kilkenny 3-25. Scorers - Kilkenny: TJ Reid 1-7 (5f); M Keoghan 2-1; A Mullen 0-5; C Kenny 0-4; A Murphy 0-3; E Cody 0-2; B Ryan, J Donnelly, C Buckley 0-1 each. Scorers - Dublin: D Burke 0-9 (7f); C Burke 0-2; F Whitely, R McBride, C Crummey, D Gray, M Schutte, E Dillon 0-1 each. Kilkenny: E Murphy; M Butler, C Delaney, T Walsh; M Carey, R Reid, P Deegan; A Mullen, A Murphy; W Walsh, TJ Reid, P Walsh; C Kenny, M Keoghan, E Cody. Substitutes: J Donnelly for W Walsh (h/t); B Ryan for P Walsh (48); C Fogarty for A Murphy (59); C Buckley for Mullen (65); D Blanchfield for Butler (67). Dublin: S Brennan; J Madden, E O’Donnell, C O’Callaghan; D Ryan, P Smyth, D Gray; C Burke, C Crummey; D Sutcliffe, R McBride, D Burke; F Whitely, R Hayes, A Mellett. Substitutes: M Schutte for Mellett (32); E Dillon for Hayes (55); A Dunphy for Gray (59); J Bellew for O’Donnell (63); D Keogh for McBride (65). Referee: T Walsh (Waterford)

>> SHERRY SAYS...

own half! That was last year’s captain’s third of the day, and his best to date. Some great pressing by the Kilkenny players led to Daire Gray being blown-up and TJ made no mistake from the free. Dublin’s response was placed ball popped over the bar by the deadly Donal Burke. Burke did the same minutes later, and one wondered where this Dublin team would be without the excellent Na

Fianna man. The home really needed a goal, but it would be the visitors that would register another major. Eoin Cody who had been unusually quiet all evening, put James Madden under pressure and TJ Reid picked up the loose ball and scanned the area for options. As ever, TJ made the right decision and played a lovely pass to Martin Keoghan. Mossy took the

pass, spun and unleashed a fierce low shot that appeared to leave keeper Sean Brennan unsighted in the Dublin goal. The Cuala man got his hurl to the shot, but it deflected off the ash and into his net. Kilkenny now led by 6 points, with 47 odd minutes on the clock. The hosts hit back with a free, but this was cancelled out immediately when sub Billy Ryan pointed, having only been on the pitch

a matter of seconds. Mossy then helped set up a point scoring opportunity for TJ, who split the posts from a central position. James Madden who had been trying to stem the Cats attack from the off, then went on a powerful run in search of a score. Referee Walsh awarded the Dubs a free when the Ballyboden man was stopped in his tracks. Donal Burke pointed the free.

Dublin undone yet again by the masterful Cats. It seems to be a pattern. The men from the capital going well and seemingly ready to get back to 2013 levels, then Brian Cody comes along and bang, Dubs dismantled. The four late changes that Mr. Cody made to his starting XV, fully paid off. Mossy’s 2 goal salvo will rightly have gotten the headlines, but the 0-4 that Cian Kenny notched were just as important in this win for the Noresiders. A special mention for Alan Murphy. The Glenmore man had an outstanding league for the Cats, and hasn’t let his manager down when called upon in the provincial championship. His robust approach and all-action style were invaluable in Parnell Park. Martin Keoghan was given the MOTM award by many pundits, but he was in good company in Donnycarney. TJ’s 1-7 will have done him no harm at all, but his ability to pick out Mossy for the second goal was classy. Sticking with the Shamrocks, Adrian Mullen. What a game he had last weekend. His 0-5, all from play were a joy to see. This could be a big summer for Adrian. The defence, minus Huw Lawlor provided plenty of protection to Eoin Murphy’s goal. Good omens. UPMC Nowlan Park will see Darragh Eagan’s Wexford roll into town this weekend. Brian Cody’s message to his panel will be quite simple. Just win it.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022

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Camogie

Sport Leinster Senior Camogie Championship Final Kilkenny 5-11 Dublin 0-12 BY MARTIN QUILTY KILKENNY made four titles in a row after an emphatic five goal victory over Dublin in MWH O’Moore Park Portlaoise on Saturday last. Kilkenny are starting to get a ruthless streak to their play as they dispatched Dublin with ease on Saturday last as the stripey women travelled to Portlaoise to take on the Dubs in the Senior Leinster final. It was another piece of history for Leinster Camogie as the game was part of a double header with the Leinster GAA hurling championship game Laois v Galway. Efforts had been made during the week to have it as a double header in Parnell Park in Dublin but due to dressing room challenges and SKY Sports broadcasting the Kilkenny hurling game v Dublin, this wasn’t possible. It was a glorious sunny day in the midlands and Kilkenny got off to the perfect start when their team captain scored two points from play to leave Kilkenny 0-2 to 0-1 ahead after five minutes. Aisling Maher levelled the scores by the 6th minute but then Kilkenny took over scoring 2-3 without reply. Aoife Doyle and Miriam Walsh started the spree with points from play before Kilkenny opened the Dublin defence to get their first goal. A long pass in from Denise Gaule saw Mary O’Connell latch onto the breaking ball before laying off a lovely timed handpass to Aoife Doyle who was running off the shoulder to rattle the Dublin net, the provider then turned scorer when Mary got herself a point from play soon after. Kilkenny second goal came in the second quarter of the game, a long clearance from Claire Phelan went straight to the hand of Julieann Malone whose shot was batted out by Eabha Mooney and Miriam Walsh was onto it like a flash before rounding the defender to slot home a poacher’s goal. Kilkenny now led 2-5 to 0-3 with 17 minutes on the clock. Katie Nolan and Mary O’Connell both added to the stripey women’s total before Dublin got two points Niamh Gannon and Aisling O’Neill scoring from play to leave eight points between the teams by the 27th minute. Kilkenny struck a sucker blow just before half time, Katie Power received a scoop pass from Denise Gaule and right on the half way line let rip looking to get a point, Mary O’Connell was waiting to pounce if the ball dropped short, the goalie and full back came to gather the ball but Katie’s shot sailed right over them all to the back of the net, it was a piece of fortune but it was a goal Kilkenny deserved for their dominance. Aisling Maher added a point from a free for Dublin to leave the half time score Kilkenny 3-7, Dublin 0-6. Kilkenny were dominant in every position during that first half and out of their 3-7 tally all scores had come from play. It was a fantastic performance, and they could have had a few more scores on the board but overall, it was a great team performance. Dublin needed a good start to the second half they got that with a free from Aisling Maher within three minutes of the restart. However, Kilkenny then went on another scoring spree, Aoife Doyle started it off when she got Kilkenny’s 4th goal of the afternoon, a ball across the 20m line from Aoife Prendergast saw Miriam Walsh fight for possession,

Stripey women ease to provincial title Aoife Doyle scores a goal

Bigger challenges ahead for Dowling’s ladies

Manager Brian Dowling

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Camogie

Denise Gaule takes a shot

she won it and gave a pass to Niamh Deely, the village player was under pressure from three defenders but somehow managed to get a pass out to Aoife Doyle who again shot past Eabha Mooney, it was almost a carbon copy of her first half goal when she came off the shoulder and rattled the net on both occasions. Katie Nolan quickly followed up with a point before a sloppy puckout from Nolan’s score saw Katie Power pick up the loose pass, hand pass to Julieann Malone who shot over the crossbar and punish the Dublin mistake Kilkenny now led 4-9 to 0-7 in the 36th minute. Forty seconds later Kilkenny were in for their 5th goal, Julieann Malone started it off with a grubber pass along the ground into the forwards, Mir Walsh flicked the ball to Mary O’Connell who got the ball into her hand before returning the pass to Walsh who shot under Eabha Mooney’s legs to put Kilkenny in the driving seat and on the way to victory there was only seven minutes on the lock when Kilkenny led 5-9 to 0-7. Dublin had tried throughout the game to keep up with Kilkenny, it was 35 years since they were last in a Senior Leinster final, and they didn’t want to take a massive beating from the kittens. Niamh Gannon and Aisling O’Neill were instrumental through the game and really tried hard. O Neill got a point for the Dubs on 51 minutes before Gannon got her reward for her hard work with a point Miriam of her own. Bambrick try’s The Dubs were battling hard but to make ground Kilkenny’s tackling and tenacious play never allowed them too much time on the ball. The score of the game came on 53 minutes. Julieann Malone caught Aoife Norris’s puckout brilliantly, she passed the ball to Spud Crowley who took a hit from Hannah Hegarty which left spud on the ground, three Dubs came in to take the ball off her and while she was on her knees, she masterfully struck the ball over the bar. It was a score of beauty, if it was a male hurler had done it, they’d be talking about it for weeks, it was magnificent. Dublin rallied for the last 10 minutes of the game and got three points on the board. Aisling O’Neill, Aoife Walsh, and Gaby Couch all contributing on the day. Final score Kilkenny 5-11, Dublin 0-12 It was an empathic victory, and it was a Kilkenny’s second powerful performance as for the Championship opener against Down on Saturday. Brian Dowling was happy with the performance especially the first half, he said the second half lost its momentum Aoife as there was lots of stoppages with Prendergast subs and injuries. He was delighted he lifts the cup could have the luxury of resting some players and giving other players game time as he prepares for this weekend. Scorers – Kilkenny: Miriam Walsh 2-02, Aoife Doyle 2-01, Katie Nolan 0-03 (1f), Katie Power 1-00, Aoife Prendergast 0-02, Mary O’Connell/Julieann Malone/Sarah Crowley 0-01 each Dublin: Aisling Maher 0-04 (4f), Aisling O’Neill 0-04 (1f), Niamh Gannon 0-02, Gaby Couch/Aoife Walsh 0-01 each Teams: Kilkenny: Aoife Norris, Michelle Teehan, Claire Phelan, Tiffanie Fitzgerald, Grace Walsh, Niamh Deely, Steffi Fitzgerald, Aoife Doyle, Aoife Prendergast, Denise Gaule, Katie Power, Mary O’Connell, Katie Nolan, Miriam Walsh, Julieann Malone Subs: Ciara Phelan for Grace Walsh, Miriam Bambrick for Mary O’Connell, Laura Norris for Katie Nolan, Sarah Crowley for Katie Power, Laura Murphy for Tiffanie Fitzgerald Dublin: Eabha Mooney, Christine Shanahan, Eve O’Brien, Muireann Kelleher, Roisin Baker, Hannah Hegarty, Emma O’Byrne, Emma Flanagan, Gaby Couch, Aisling Maher, Niamh Gannon, Jody Couch, Ali Twomey, Aisling O’Neill, Aisling Gannon Subs: Leah Butler for Christine Shanahan, Orla Gray for Aisling Maher, Elyse Jameison Murphy for Aisling Gannon, Claire Gannon for Emma Flanagan, Aoife Walsh for Ali Twomey Referee: Ray Kelly (Kildare)

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

Young(JERRY) Irish Film ENGLISH JEREMIAH Makers on the set of ACKNOWLEDGEMENT the National Youth

Film school 2019 late of Cypress Jeremiah (Jerry) English Avenue Kilkenny and Dublin. Jerry’s family would like to thank everyone for their kind expression of sympathy on the recent loss of our wonderful Dad, Grandad, and Great Grandad. We would like to thank the wonderful staff of the Laurel Wing Drakelands House, who looked after Jerry with such care and kindness in the last years of his life. We will be eternally grateful for their kindness to Jerry and ourselves particularly in the last days of his life. To Dr Joanne Cuddihy of Ayrfield Medical Practice, we offer our thanks for your care and kindness. Thanks to Father Whearty for a beautiful service and very kind words. To Sammy and all at Johnston’s, thank you for the care and respect you afforded to Dad. Finally, to all our extended family and friends who attended the services, sent messages of sympathy, and support, we thank you most sincerely. Your kindness is much appreciated.

Jerry’s 97th Birthday (1st away from home occurs on May 23rd.) Happy Birthday Dad We love and miss you Paula, John, Liz and Ken

YoungCONNOLLY Irish Film TIM Makers on the set of BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE the National Youth Film school Tim Connolly, late2019 of 54 Fairview,

Young Irish Film Makers on the set of the National Youth Film school 2019 JOHANNA (HANNAH) BYRNE

1st Birthday away from home

Johanna (Hannah) Byrne whose 100th Birthday (5th away from home) occurs on 22nd May.

Graignamanagh, Co. Kilkenny whose Birthday occurs on 28th May 2022

You were very kind and thoughtful With a warm and loving heart And when other people needed help You always played your part You are thought of every single day whatever time of year but somehow more than ever now your special day is here No present can be given And that’s really very hard But there is a world of love Inside this special little card Each memory is shining bright And treasured dearly too But memories can’t take the place Of someone dear like you. Happy Birthday Tim Love always Joseph X

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

Today always meant so much to me Now it only brings me tears I wish that God could have spared you For just a few more years I’m thinking of you today Nan I know that’s nothing new You were my thoughts of yesterday And you’ll be in tomorrows too The memories I’ll treasure forever They always make me smile I just wish I could hold you again If only for a while

A prayer to obtain a special favour through the intercession of Saint Joseph O glorious Saint Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus Christ, to you do we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtaining from the Merciful Heart of Jesus all the help and graces necessary for our spiritual and temporary welfare; particularly for the help of a happy death and the special favour we now implore (Here mention or reflect upon your lawful requests) O Guardian of the Word incarnate, we trust that your prayers on our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God. P.K

But until the day that we unite When we’ll no longer be apart But until that day, remember Nan You are always in my heart Happy Birthday Love your Grandson Joseph XXX

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. P.L

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

St. Michael Prayer St Michael, the archangel, defend us in our hour of need; be our safeguard against wickedness and snares of the devil. May God restrain him, we humbly pray and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly Host by the power of God thrust Satan down to hell and with him all evil spirits who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen P.K

The Miracle Prayer

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request). O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.R

St. Anthony Prayer,

The Miracle Prayer

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 20 May 2022