At the time of going to press, former international hockey player Catriona Carey has been arrested by detectives as part of an investigation into an alleged €600,000 mortgage scam.
Ms Carey (45) was arrested by appointment by officers from the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) and is being questioned about conspiracy to commit alleged deception.
She is being held under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act at a south Dublin Garda sta-
tion and can be held for up to a week as detectives put around 20 separate criminal complaints to her.
It is understood detectives are investigating claims that Ms Carey was offering alleged fraudulent services to distressed mortgage holders, in which she allegedly offered her services to refinance properties. Instead of doing this, it is alleged that the money she obtained was stolen.
Detectives have identified three people as part of their investigation and Ms Carey is the
“Almost three years ago, at the height of the pandemic, it nearly all came to an end for me, Carlow-Kilkenny Fine Gael TD, John Paul Phelan has told The Kilkenny Observer.
“Very few people get a second chance. I got one. I’ve been one of the lucky few. Once I regained consciousness that day a doctor asked about my work, lifestyle and the need to remove stress from my life and change how I lived. When I told him what my job was we both laughed. In reality that prognosis has not changed. As a result I have decided not to seek the Fine Gael nomination to contest the next General Election....’
Full story Page 10
second person to be arrested in the probe. Gardaí are not looking for anyone else apart from this trio.
Last month, a man was arrested and questioned for two days at Wexford Garda Station before being released without charge by detectives investigating the alleged massive mortgage scam.
He was also questioned about conspiracy to commit deception and it is expected that another middle-aged male will be arrested in the coming weeks.
Last year it was revealed how former Irish hockey star Ms Carey was involved in an alleged mortgage scam in which she received thousands of euro from people in financial distress after promising to help them secure new deals to keep their properties.
Ms Carey previously admitted that up to €200,000 deposited into an account by desperate homeowners was spent on personal items including holidays, a €55,000 BMW and designer clothing.
She said the money is now gone and not recoverable.
Ms Carey has been accused of scamming dozens of people after offering to buy debt from their mortgage lenders at a discount once she received deposits. However, the deals she promised never materialised.
Ms Carey also has a previous conviction for fraud. In February of this year, she was arrested as part of a separate investigation. She was released without charge after over 12 hours in custody.
A former sports coach has gone on trial accused of 266 counts of indecently and sexually assaulting five boys over four decades ago –in Kilkenny and elsewhere.
The 72-year-old Waterford man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 266 counts of indecently and sexually assaulting the five boys in locations in Kilkenny, Waterford and Cork on dates between 1978 and 1993.
Full story Page 6
A male contraceptive pill which disables a gene crucial for producing sperm may be available in five years, according to US scientists.
Researchers at Washington State University say the development of safe and reversible contraception for men is on the horizon after the breakthrough discovery of a gene, called Arrdc5, which renders sperm infertile.
Full story Page 6
Eight hundred new jobs will be created with the new facility under way for Abbott Diabetes Care in Kilkenny.
Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council Pat Fitzpatrick recently attended a ceremony in the Lyrath Hotel hosted by Jared Watkin, Senior Vice-President of Abbott’s Diabetes Care business, to mark the start of
the building of Abbott’s 30,000 sq.m. manufacturing facility in Kilkenny.
The new facility will employ more than 800 people when it begins production next year.
Minister Simon Harris, TD, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science was also present at the ceremony attended
by a number of local dignitaries. Cllr. Fitzpatick said: “This is another great day for Kilkenny. I am delighted that construction has commenced on Abbott’s manufacturing facility, which will produce Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Glucose Monitoring System for people with diabetes. I know that Abbott are actively recruiting to fill the many
hundreds of new jobs that will be created when the state-ofthe-art manufacturing facility opens next year. Abbott’s decision to locate their facility in the City has been a huge vote of confidence in Kilkenny, our work force and the quality of life that we offer.
“There has been a very positive buzz around not just Co
Kilkenny but the wider region since last August when the announcement was made. I wish Abbott well in the construction of the new facility and I look forward to them getting into production of their FreeStyle Libre 3 System, which will have an extremely positive impact on the lives of so many people with diabetes,” he said.
Irish organisation for young women and girls The Shona Project has been nominated for the European Citizens’ Prize, which is awarded every year by the European Parliament to recognise exceptional achievements by people and groups in the EU. The organisation was nominated jointly by Green Party MEP Grace O’Sullivan and Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus, who recognised the stellar work The Shona Project has undertaken.
Special Report Page 14
Mary Quant, iconic fashion designer of the ‘60s, who popularised the miniskirt, died on April 13 in her 93rd year. Dame Barbara Mary Quant had a huge impact on the fashion industry. She also had a huge impact on the minds, and bodies (and souls) of Irish Catholic boys in the throes of puberty (I know, I was one).
Gerry Moran Page 20
There’s only two weeks left until Alzheimer’s Tea Day, and The ASI and Ambassadors Bryan Murray and Una CrawfordO’Brien call on the people of Kilkenny to have the most powerful cup of tea of the year on Thursday, May 4.
Actor Bryan Murray was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease three years ago, and he and Una are asking everyone to get involved with local Tea Day events in their homes, gardens, workplaces, schools, local community centres or somewhere special.
There are an estimated 1,413 people living with dementia in Kilkenny.
Alzheimer’s Tea Day returned last year after taking place online in 2020 and 2021 due to Covid19. Traditional Tea Day events in the past have raised €500,000. The ASI hopes to continue rebuilding Tea Day and, this year, raise €300,000.
There are an estimated 1,413 people living with dementia in Kilkenny, and each year more than 11,000 people develop the disease across the country – at least 30 people every day. Raising a cup and some money allows People Living With Dementia like Bryan to continue to live in their communities.
Many of The ASI day care
centres nationwide will celebrate with Tea Day parties in May. ASI services provide necessary reprieve for people with Dementia and their families, and allow family carers time for themselves; for their own needs and health and well-being.
Southern Operations Manager at The ASI, Breda Tuohig, said: “Tea Day is a perfect way for our supports and services in the region to celebrate all that we offer for people living with dementia and their families. Without the support of Tea Day hosts, it would be much more difficult for us to provide the care we do. I would encourage everyone to host a Tea Day event, your support is invaluable to us”
Can’t host a Tea Day this year? You can still support dementia care and services by making a donation on teaday.ie
* For more information, contact The ASI Communications Manager Hugh O’Donoghue: hugh.odonoghue@alzheimer.ie or 085 856 71 43/The ASI Communications Officer Niamh Burke at niamh.burke@alzheimer.ie or 086 029 5634.
See also Pages 10 and 18
Ambassadors Bryan Murray and Una Crawford-O’Brien Urge Kilkenny to have the Most Powerful Cup of Tea of the Year on May 4th
A male contraceptive pill which disables a gene crucial for producing sperm may be available in ve years, according to US scientists.
Researchers at Washington State University say the development of safe and reversible contraception for men is on the horizon after the breakthrough discovery of a gene, called Arrdc5, which
renders sperm infertile. Arrdc5, which is discovered in the testicles of mammals, produces a key protein which plays a role in the last stages of sperm formation.
Scientists are now searching for a drug molecule to inhibit the protein, which will see sperm lose the ability to propel towards an egg to fertilise it.
A former sports coach has gone on trial accused of 266 counts of indecently and sexually assaulting ve boys over four decades ago – in Kilkenny and elsewhere.
e 72-year-old Waterford man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to 266 counts of indecently and sexually assaulting the ve boys in locations in Kilkenny, Waterford and Cork on dates between 1978 and 1993.
In his opening speech to the jury, Paul Greene SC, prosecuting, said it would hear evidence that the ve complainants in the case are now men in their 50s and 40s.
He said that they came into contact with the man when
they were boys and teenagers in various ways including as a sports coach, a family friend and — in one case — through a mutual interest in soccer.
Mr Greene said the jury would hear evidence that inappropriate sexual contact took place between the accused man and the boys, which included exposing his penis, fondling, masturbation, handcu ng, urination and defecation.
Mr Greene said these events took place over four decades ago and there has been a lapse in time since then. He told the jury that the accused man remains innocent unless he is found guilty.
e trial continues before Judge Martin Nolan and a jury.
Panda, one of the largest waste collection companies in the country – and which operates in Kilkenny and elsewhere in the South East – is introducing a special charge for households for putting food and garden waste into their compost bins.
e move by Panda Recycling has been described as a blow to e orts to encourage households to recycle.
Panda Recycling, whose parent group was recently sold for €1bn, is one of the largest bin collection rms in the State with 360,000 customers.
From May 8, it will start charging €3.80 for each compost bin lift.
e new charge comes less than a year after it increased the general waste bin-lift charges by more than 12% and hiked its service charges.
Since September the charge
e new pill would have no hormonal side e ects and could be used on animals to tackle overpopulation, researchers said.
Previous hormone-based pills for men have resulted in severe side e ects such as mood disorders and shrinking testicles.
Dr Jon Oatley said a male contraceptive could be just
as seismic as the rst female birth control pill in 1960 and would work as a switch, meaning infertility can be reversed.
He told Radio 4’s Today programme: “Given the sufcient resources including funding and tools then I think we could be there in ve to seven years.
“I think the impacts that
developing a non-hormonal male contraceptive can have on the world are huge.
“I liken it to the development of the female birth control pill in the 1960s.
“I think the next frontier is male contraceptive development.”
Experiments carried out on mice showed disabling the gene had a signi cant impact
on their fertility. Researchers at Washington State University found male mice lacking the gene produced 28pc less sperm which moved almost three times slower than in normal mice. e results of the study appear to indicate the protein encoded by Arrdc5 is essential for sperm production.
e countdown is on for applications to the ChangeX, in partnership with Greencoat Renewables Community Fund, which will close on May 5.
Lisdowney in Kilkenny is among the locations where community funding is available.
e community funds totalling more than €200,000 across n ine locations in Ireland are set to support local community groups, schools, and organisations to build sustainable, thriving communities.
for each lift of a general waste bin is up by €1.13 to €10.25, a rise of 12.4%.
It means a household having its bin collected every fortnight is now paying €50 more a year for its waste-collection service.
When telling customers about the increases last September, Panda said the cost of lifting compost bins was una ected, but the company has now changed tack.
Financial adviser Frank Conway, who chaired the Government’s since-disbanded Price Monitoring Group for bin charges, said: “ is will be a shock to people as it goes against the councils’ and the department’s circular economy objective of encouraging people to put less into the general-waste bins.”
e new charge would add to ever-rising costs for households, he said.
e fund will support local groups living near Greencoatowned wind farms to start or expand projects that create a positive social or environmen-
tal impact in their community. Applicants can choose from nine proven ideas that have already had a positive impact in other communities across Ireland, and internationally. Ideas on o er include Walks and Talks, a Pollinator Plan, CycleBus and an Open Orchard. Alternatively, local communities can apply for funding of up to €5,000 for their own project related to one of the following themes: health and wellbeing; sports and recreation; education; energy; sustainability and environment; culture and heritage. e funding builds on the existing partnership between ChangeX and Greencoat Renewables.
Since 2021, the two organisations have launched community funds in 12 locations across Ireland, with total funding of €375,000, bene ting more than 11,000 people.
As a major owner of renewable energy infrastructure, Greencoat Renewables Plc is fully committed to supporting and funding community initiatives to build a more sustainable and prosperous society. Extending its commitment beyond renewable energy assets, Greencoat Renewables strives to operate in a responsible and sustainable manner for the bene t of all its stakeholders and seeks to be a best-in-class partner for those living in close proximity to the wind farms they own.
“Greencoat’s commitment to a sustainable future extends beyond the renewable energy we generate. We’re delighted to extend our partnership with ChangeX to help us increase the impact and reach of our community funding,” said Greencoat’s Ben Brooks.
“With community leaders having access to the ChangeX platform, we want to help foster new ideas and projects that leave a positive impact in the communities in which we are located, and build on the amazing projects supported by the 2021 and 2022 funding.”
*Application forms and details can be found online at: https://www.changex.org/ ie/funds/lisdowney-community-fund
Housing charity reshold supported 1,262 households to stay in their homes or secure alternative housing in the rst quarter of this year, the highest number on record since the charity began publishing its quarterly impact reports in April 2021. A total of 1,727 adults and 1,310 children were saved from facing homelessness from January to March.
In Q1 2023, reshold supported 9,256 households, including 12,181 adults and 8,036 children. Advisors answered over 11,500 calls and responded to over 2,000 webchats from pri-
vate renters facing challenges in their tenancy. Of new clients who contacted reshold in the rst three months of the year, 2,041 were at risk of homelessness with a majority facing this prospect as a result of their landlord selling their home. reshold’s National Advocacy Manager Ann-Marie O’Reilly said: “It is extremely worrying to see record levels of households requiring immense levels of support in their tenancies in the rst quarter of this year, particularly while an eviction ban was in place. is truly indicates the level of the crisis
we are facing in this country.
“ reshold advisors are working tirelessly to support thousands of private renters. In the rst quarter of the year, our advisors answered over 11,500 phone calls and responded to over 2,000 webchats, supporting renters with their tenancy. reshold’s work is vital as thousands of renters face uncertainty in the coming months.”
Notices of Termination
Tenancy termination remains the largest concern for private renters in Q1 2023, with 37% of new clients having received a Notice of Termination from
their landlord. Over half of private renters who contacted reshold in Q1 2023 reported issues related to the security of their tenancy.
Sale of property remains the most common reason landlords end a tenancy, however 41% of such notices were found to be invalid by reshold advisors in Q1 2023. Two in three notices citing the requirement of the home for use by the landlord or relatives were found invalid by advisors, while 75% of notices citing renovation as the reason for the notice were deemed invalid.
e tiny ngers. Just four weeks in this world. Holding on to something warm and made of esh. Tactile. Holding on to an aged and bony, if not yet quite withered, nger of — though she does not know it yet — her granddad on her mother’s side. at other sentient being who feeds her and keeps her warm and lulls her to sleep. Only to awake again and try and make sense of all the sounds and still yet blurred sights of this place called Life.
I am long old enough to have the bus pass. Yet, the sights and the sounds of this place we call Life are still a mystery to me after all these years of philosophical musings and inquiring debate. at, and the unfathomable miracle of a tiny, beautiful baby girl, all brand new, looking up at me, a little quizzical and perplexed as to what is this
thing called Life and this, feeling is it?, warm, fuzzy feeling called love. e day before I call to visit my fourth granddaughter and her older sister I call to visit neighbours just up the road. I have not seen much of him and his wife during the years of the pandemic. His wife is momentarily away, so he and I sit in the good room, with its ceilinghigh cases of ne books, on comfortable couches and drink strong tea and catch up with each other. We talk about life, love and the whole damn thing. About the children and the grandchildren, and how old is she now, how tall now is he, and do they not they just grow up so fast. And, so, the conversation turns to ageing and getting old and how great that bus pass is. And how we just do not do some things anymore because we can’t do some
things anymore. What a little fecker this getting old is. But how not so long ago in the scheme of things life was brutish and short.
So, we pour some more tea, against the fading of the evening light, two old guys in their bodies like an old, familiar overcoat but as we sup we re ect on how lucky we are to have reached this grand old age in relatively ne fettle and sure isn’t 70 the new 50s or something like that?
Our conversation ups the ante a bit and turns to Galileo and Einstein and how that Irish-born, worldrenowned photographer would like to have captured Jesus on her sturdy Nikon or Countess Markievicz with her ri es under her ru es. Of the inherent wrongs of religiosity but that the Pope is a scientist by trade. We talk too of music, his new mandolin — a gift from his son — and the works of Steve Earl. Of the humour of David Sedaris. Of the changing industry that is newspapers and of the un -
fathomable size of the universe and the limited ability of the human brain to comprehend the meaning of it all.
As we drain the teapot, he asks again how my daughter, her husband, and my new grandchild are doing.
Just wonderful, I say.
I bring up the subject of the Great Famine of ‘47 but just as a focal point in mankind’s history. I could just as easily mention the Black Death of the 14th century which killed between 75 and 200 million souls in Western Europe and North Africa or the Crusades of old.
Now, here’s a thing, I say. Your great-great-greatwhatever grandmother and great-great-great-whatever grandfather of 1847 must have survived the famine and likewise their ancestors going back aeons. e same for me. Otherwise, you and
I would not be sitting here right now. Experiencing this thing called Life. Or, to put it another way, if you and your lovely wife had not made love on the nights you conceived your three wonderful children but rather the night after or some such, then those wonderful children would not be in the world right now.
ere might be three children who look or sound like them. But it would not be them. It’s that we are born at all and it is also that individual self-centred experience of Life that is miraculous in itself.
Next day I am with my granddaughter and, as I watch those tiny, little ngers grasp mine, I think: Is this miracle in itself not enough to sate my innate curiosity about this thing called Life.
And I know, without hesitation, it is...
TD, John Paul Phelan is to step down from politics following a brush with death, the impact of which is still physically impacting on the local politician.
He told The Kilkenny Observer: "Almost three years ago, at the height of the pandemic, it nearly all came to an end for me. Very few people get a second chance. I’ve got one. I’ve been one of the lucky few. Once I regained consciousness
Artist Ita Morrissey is bringing some exciting fun and free workshops to Kilkenny and is inviting community member to get involved. Held over four Saturday mornings, it will be a chance to get creative, have fun and gain a different perspective.
Ita Morrissey always works with community and connection to the fore and her latest project is no different.
“As a socially engaged artist I am interested in subjects and topics that impact our daily lives, and so I’m especially interested in this new AI technology and what the impact is on a personal level, even just looking at the artificial filters, where they have become so realistic, it is a curious time," she told The Kilkenny Observer.
She has previously created RISE, a promenade performance about the events leading up to the 1916 rising in Kilkenny, while last year presented The Untold Tales of Freedom in Rothe House,
that day a doctor asked about my work, lifestyle and the need to remove stress from my life and change how I lived. When I told him what my job was we both laughed.
"In reality that prognosis has not changed. As a result I have decided not to seek the Fine Gael nomination to contest the next General Election.
"Politics is a job that demands absolute commitment, 24/7.
I have given politics every-
thing since I was first elected to Kilkenny County Council at the age of 20 and still a student. It has been my greatest honour to serve the people of Carlow and Kilkenny for the last 24 years as a councillor, senator, TD and junior minister.
"I have always given everything to my role as a public representative. And while I won’t be putting my name forward for the next general election, I want to reassure the women and
men who put their trust and faith in me that I am not disappearing from political life," Mr Phelan said.
"My mandate to be a voice for the people of Kilkenny and Carlow is one which I will continue to serve. I will work as hard as ever for the remainder of this Dáil term, serving all of my constituents, all of the time. There is unfinished business and I will continue to deliver for this constituency.
"I am making my intentions clear now, well in advance of the next General Election, to give the Fine Gael organisation and potential candidates the time needed to establish themselves, to campaign and to ensure Fine Gael will retain at least one seat in this constituency," he said.
"Everything that I have achieved has been with the help and support of Claire and my family and friends.
"I want to thank all those who have given me such support and encouragement over the years. This has been a huge team effort. I also want to thank and acknowledge the hard work and dedication of my family, neighbours, friends and constituents who have stood with me on this 24 year-long journey. I want to thank my Fine Gael Oireachtas colleagues for their friendship and advice over the years."
A Bill which will provide legal certainty to schools by ensuring that they have clear legislative protection against liability for injury to student arising from accidents occurring on school premises, has been put forward by Independent NUI Senator Rónán Mullen. The Bill will ensure that protection will apply provided that an adequate system of teacher supervision is in place that the school is in compliance with the applicable health and safety regulation. The legislation is amending the Civil Liability Act, 1961.
Many cases involving injured student go as far as the High Court regarding their claims. Senators Sharon Keogan, Gerard P. Craughwell, Victor Boyhan and Tom Clonan are supporting the Bill.
which showed the story of six women and the impact of the civil war.
The Future Is S Filter is in it’s explorative and research stage, where Ita M Morrissey will offer a series of stimulating workshops,
which are open and free, where participants will be exploring what is really real in this digital age. Participants can come to one or all four, no experience is needed, and will be talking, writing and doing some
creative exercises.
The workshops start on Saturday, April 29 at Barnstorm just above the Home Rule Club. The workshops take place from 10am to 12pm over four consecutive Saturdays and are open
to those aged over 16.
*Get in touch to register by texting or calling Ita on 089 6124203 or emailing morrisseyita@gmail.com.
Supported by @createcollaborativearts @artscouncilireland
The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is pleased to announce Online Fitness and Nutrition Coach Denise Murphy as their latest ambassador. Kilkenny native Denise is calling on people to support The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s (The ASI) Alzheimer’s Greenway Challenge fundraising campaign, kindly sponsored by Payzone, on Friday, June 30 and Saturday, July 1 to raise funds for vital dementia supports and services.
Denise Murphy’s father, Michael Shanahan, passed away in February after living
with Young-Onset Dementia (YOD). Michael was diagnosed with the condition in 2013. Kilkenny native Murphy, has teamed up with The ASI to help other families in Ireland impacted by the condition.
The ASI welcomes Payzone, the trusted Irish payments company, as sponsor of the Waterford Greenway Challenge.
Ambassador Denise Murphy said: “I'm honoured to team up with The Alzheimer Society of Ireland and support their Alzheimer's Greenway Challenge. I know
first-hand how vital The ASI's services are; their support is a lifeline for families living with dementia.
"Dad received the most amazing care from staff at The ASI's Kilkenny Day Care; he absolutely loved going there. They offered so many activities; his favourite was the music sessions. Dad always loved singing and dancing; it really helped to retain his identity.
"Supporting The Alzheimer's Greenway Challenge feels like I can give something back in a way. We hope this challenge will raise im-
portant funds for The ASI, and also encourage people to get active!”
One in ten people diagnosed with dementia in Ireland is under 65. Murphy believes there is an ‘assumption’ that dementia is a condition that only affects older people. “I think in the last few years there has been an increased awareness and understanding of young-onset dementia but more awareness needs to be made.”
Funds raised through Alzheimer’s Greenway Challenge will go towards The
ASI’s supports and services to people with dementia and their carers across Ireland.
Three different route options are available on this challenge to suit everyone:
• Walk the Greenway over two days – June 30th and July 1st
• Cycle from Dungarvan to Waterford in one day on July 1st (46km)
• Cycle from Waterford to Dungarvan and back to Waterford in one day on July 1st (92km)
See also Page 18
The South East Energy Agency, in collaboration with POBAL and local libraries in Kilkenny, Carlow, Wexford, and Waterford, is excited to announce a series of free information events on energy efficiency and energy saving initiatives. The events aim to help participants take the first steps towards a more energy-efficient and sustainable home, with informative sessions delivered by expert speakers and practical tips for attendees to implement.
Don’t miss a free information event with energy experts at Loughboy Library In Kilkenny City on Friday, May 5, from 6pm-7pm.
The event will include helpful information about energy-saving tips for homes to help lower running costs and improve comfort. Participants will also discover how smart meters work and track their energy usage and save on their bills.
Imagine that you are bracing yourself to book a business trip or holiday, ights, transfers, hotel restaurants and all the rest. But instead of having to battle with annoying websites there is a convenient way to line up all the reservations with the efciency of James Bond’s Miss Moneypenny.
Or suppose that you need to write a paper or an essay involving a tooth grinding amount of research. Rather than struggling with endless trawls through search engines you simply tap in a request and within minutes, rather than hours and hours, the information comes back complete with attribution sources. Your project can even be written for you, maybe with better results.
Far from being a futuristic dream these scenarios already exist thanks to AI
systems and chat bots like ChatGPT and GPT-4. But rather than being welcomed as drudge-saving tools these advances have set alarm bells ringing with calls from technocrats to call a halt to further developments until risks have been assessed and contained. Worthies like Elon Musk and Apple co-founder Steve Wozinak have called for a six-month halt, warning “human-competitive intelligence can pose profound risks to society and humanity”.
eir warnings sound like the plot for a sci- horror movie in which AI spirals out of control taking over jobs, jamming the net with misinformation and even more sinisterly, outwitting humans. Could the techno supremos be su ering from over-heated imaginations or are they being heedful of the
fact that AI is developing so fast that there isn’t time to research the implications of what it can do and how this will a ect humanity?
It’s one thing to joke about an AI model that can write your essay but quite another to let lose uncontrolled intelligence systems potentially capable of taking decisions for themselves. Among the concerns are the way that competition in the tech industry might push less responsible rms into launching their latest product, before the necessary checks have been carried out.
e computer scientists’ letter expressing concern followed Open AI’s release of GPT-4, which has triggered a race by big names in the industry like Microsoft and Google to launch similar products for their systems. In it they asked for a six month
halt. “We call on all AI labs to immediately pause for at least six months the training of AI systems more powerful than GPT-4, If the pause cannot be enacted quickly, governments should step in and institute a moratorium.”
Smouldering concern has ignited beyond the tech community. Italy hit the news headlines here when it imposed a temporary ban last month on ChatCPT and the EU is considering what action it should take. Among fears posed by AI running on Large Language Models (LLM) are the implications for education, especially at third level.
ere are worries about security where, data scraping can result in sensitive information, such as trade secrets and nancial data, being exposed to competitors. For disinformation look
no further than the way most people were completely taken in by pictures of the Pope wearing a ashy white designer pu er jacket which went viral. Doctoring pictures photoshopping has been around for years; here a speedier version Midjourney was used.
In other quarters the alarm bells are being dismissed as placing far too much faith in AI , viewing it as being incapable of taking the kind of rational, purposeful decisions that humans take (which may be bit of misplaced faith in human minds).
Asked about the risks and whether we have reached a tipping point with AI, Professor Noel O’Connor , School of Electronic Engineering DCU, said: “We need to look at what we are doing.
e time for regulation has
arrived.”
According to a techie informant, concern is being caused by a tokening system in which information is rated with codes which are not understood nor is it known exactly what the system is doing.
e big question really is whether regulation can move fast enough to keep up with the rate of and development of AI where the graph of change is taking o like one of Elon Musk’s proposed space trips with the speed and power of computers doubling every 18 months. It may lag behind as it has done with social media. And then there’s the catch that, if countries pause in the intelligence race, they may get left behind by competing nations like China. Looks like the genie is already out of the bottle.
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals required by the body for health and one I get asked about frequently at the shop. Magnesium is easily depleted; stress, processed food, and ca eine will cause Magnesium loss. It’s responsible for over 300 functions in the body, denitely too many to cover here, but I will talk about the 3 most common things we recommend it for; sleep, restless legs, and muscle spasm. We see many people at the shop who have di culty sleeping and a lack of Magnesium causing tension in the body could be part of the problem. Extra Magnesium either through the diet or
supplementation may be the natural solution you’re looking for. Many people report that they sleep more quickly, more deeply and for longer, and wake up feeling refreshed when they take extra Magnesium. For sleep, supplements are best taken about an hour before bed.
Restless legs is very common. I get asked about this all the time, and if this is not addressed it could start a ecting your sleep. Your legs may feel restless, twitchy, dgety, and sometimes it can feel like there is something crawling under your skin. I call it leg trashing as I can’t sit still when it happens. Magnesium is my go-to supplement to help relieve symptoms.
Muscle cramps especially in the legs either after intense exercise, or cramps that wake you up at night can be relieved with extra Magnesium.
Sore and tired muscles after intense work or workouts can bene t from extra too. ere are di erent types of Magnesium supplements available, you’ll nd them in powder, tablets, capsules, and liquid. For those of you who can’t swallow tablets or capsules, or who worry about the taste of liquid supplements there’s BetterYou Magnesium Oil Body Spray. is is a convenient way to get your Magnesium. You can apply the spray anywhere on the body, it absorbs quickly when massaged into the skin. It promotes overall wellbeing and natural relaxation and may ease aches, pains, and sti ness. 10 sprays of Magnesium Body Oil Spray provide 200mg of magnesium. It’s suitable for all ages and may be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Food sources of Magnesium include green leafy vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate.
Magnesium is a mineral worth taking a look at.
Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealth-
Being a young woman in Ireland can be really tough....
Here at Shona, we celebrate women from all over the world, lead and those who think, those who win and those who those who succeed and those who overcome, those who learn. We share our stories so that we don’t feel alone. We laugh, learn, try and cry together.
Figuring out who we are, and where we fit into this world is hard, and there are so many challenges; anxiety, depression, body image, self-esteem, boys, family drama, relationships, bullying and feeling like we don’t fit in. social media, exams stress, hormones, sexuality.
Irish organisation for young women and girls The Shona Project has been nominated for the European Citizens’ Prize, which is awarded every year by the European Parliament to recognise exceptional achievements by people and groups in the EU.
The organisation was nominated jointly by Green Party MEP Grace O’Sullivan and Sinn Féin MEP Chris MacManus, who recognised the stellar work The Shona Project has undertaken to
build a network of young women and host discussions on a massive range of issues facing young women in Ireland today, from period poverty to racism to the pressures of social media.
In particular the nomination recognised the Shona Project’s work in hosting the Shine Festival over two days in October of last year. The festival brought together thousands of young women around International Day of the Girl both at an inperson event in Dublin and
streamed live into school gyms and sports halls around the country.
The festival focused on careers, body positivity, activism and health. A series of videos also paid homage to the late Vicky Phelan, the Kilkenny native who was a role model for many young women following her campaign for cervical cancer victims.
Speaking from Brussels following the nomination, MEP Grace O’Sullivan said: “Founder of The Shona
Project Tammy Darcy has long been an inspiration to me and now to thousands of young women and girls, it is only fitting that they are put forward for this award. The Shona Project doesn’t shy away from some of the most important, and most delicate, issues facing young girls today. We need more role models like Tammy and the team at The Shona Project.”
The winners will be decided by a panel of judges from across the EU includ-
ing MEPs, and will be announced in the autumn. In 2022, Nasc Migrant Youth and mental health organisation Jigsaw won the prize for Ireland.
The Shona Project was launched in September 2016 by Waterford woman Tammy Darcy and is named after her sister who passed away recently. The project has distributed more 60,000 copies of its “Survival Handbook for Girls” to individuals and schools since it was founded.
Did you know that you as a teacher, you and your school can get involved with The Shona Project in many different ways?
WORKSHOPS: We offer two workshops The first of focused on influence, kindness and mindset (more here) and the second is
focused on confidence and finding our voices (more here). To book a workshop contact info@shona.ie
SHINE FESTIVAL: On October 11 and 12 each year, we bring together thousands of TY girls to hear from amazing female role models and celebrate
International Day of The Girl. Our online site has over 140 tailor made prerecorded videos, along with class discussion and journal prompts on topics such as women’s health, women in sports, careers, the arts, activism and much more. For more info and to watch the content, please
head over to www.shinefestival.ie To book in to attend in person next year, please sign up to the newsletter below.
BATHROOM ART: We want to turn your school halls and bathrooms into a safe and positive space by providing a free stencil kit,
which can be used by your students in whatever way they wish! All the details can be found here
SURVIVAL HANDBOOK: Each year, we distribute 30,000 FREE Handbooks to 1st year girls all over Ireland. Just let us know how many you need.
The world (and Instagram) tells us we should have it all figured out by now, and that we should be perfect, which none of us will ever be. Really, we should be helping each other to be smart, strong and, above all else, kind.
However, when girls support each other, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.
We know exactly how it feels to struggle and feel alone, because we’ve been there. We believe that we all need to give ourselves a break, and take care of ourselves, and of each other, to celebrate each other’s differences, and to support each other so we can all achieve everything our quirky little hearts desire.
What do we do at the Shona Project: We recently asked 559 teenage girls across Ireland how they were doing really, and the research result were quite shocking. Have a read here ->https://shona.ie/research2022/
We run powerful and engaging school workshops suitable for all secondary school students focused or check out our new Condence & Mindset workshop here -> https://shona.ie/ workshop-part-2/ on kindness, mindset, resilience and confidence. Contact ellen@shona.ie for more info and to book in, To celebrate International Day Of The Girl in October 2022, we had our biggest-ever event where we were joined by 17,000 teenage girls –both virtually and in person – from all over Ireland and created once-in-a-lifetime memories.
Sometime it’s hard to be a woman ... what the project is all about
Were you unfortunate enough to be amongst the 16% of home insurance claimants who discovered too late that they were underinsured? Hopefully not. Have you reviewed your house insurance cover recently in the light of in ation and soaring building costs?
According to experts, if you are under-insured and make a claim under your policy you may not be fully protected and could receive less than the full amount necessary to rebuild or repair your home. For example, if your home is insured for €300,000 but the current rebuild costs of the property is €400,000, it means that it is underinsured by €100,000 or 25%. If a claim occurs where the damage is estimated to be valued at €100,000, because the property is underinsured by 25% the insured will only receive €75,000. You will then have to supplement the shortfall if you wish to
restore the property to its original speci cation.
Billy Shannon of Aviva said: “Rising in ation and increases in material and building costs have seen the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) increase the rebuild rates last September, with signi cant increases of between 15% to 44% set. is is at complete variance to the previous rate increases published by the SCSI where rates would have increased by 4%-8%.
Anyone who has ever had to make a claim on their policy will appreciate that it can be a stressful time and, as insurers, we want to avoid having to add to the stress by telling our customers that they are under-insured.”
All home insurance policyholders are due to receive a letter from their insurers to raise awareness of the risks of being under-insured. But don’t wait for that letter as six in 10 have not yet
received a letter from their insurer.
As usual, many people are slow to act. In a recent survey conducted for Aviva only four in 10 Irish homeowners have received a letter from their insurer warning that the sum insured on their property may be insu cient due to the rising costs of rebuilding a home. Of those recipients only 6% reported having increased their sum insured to the correct rebuilding cost. More than one in 10 have received the letter and plan to act (14%)
Yet, fewer than one in 10 don’t plan to act (8%). Of those, one in ve people said they simply cannot a ord to pay any more – this is a bigger issue for households with children (38%) and those in the 35-44 year age bracket (33%) – while two in ve say, that based on a policy review, they are satised that there sum insured is already su cient. One
third of homeowners say it’s on their to do list but that they just haven’t got around to it. Men (9%) say they are willing to take a chance that nothing will happen, with their female counterparts (1%) willing to risk it all. More than one in ve (22%) either don’t know
how to calculate the correct amount or are not aware of the nancial exposure of being underinsured. So review the level of buildings and contents cover you need on a regular basis, especially when renewing your insurance. Talk to your home insurance provider if you deal direct or your broker about the right level of cover for you.
Your insurer or broker should inform you of the risks of being under-insured.
ey should give you relevant and clear information when you take out, or renew, your insurance policy. In the event of a claim, this may help you to avoid an insurance pay-out that doesn’t cover your costs.
According to Zurich you should also consider any upgrades or additions to your home, and don’t forget your contents and personal possessions as these may change the amount you
need to insure. Items such as a new sofa, laptop, television, or carpets may increase the cost to replace all contents as new. Installing a new kitchen, o ce, bathroom or tted wardrobes may require a review of the cost to rebuild your home. You need to be proactive. You need to inform your insurer of any changes. Ultimately the buck stops with you. To nd out how much it would cost to rebuild your home use the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland’s free calculators at www.scsi.ie/consumer/ build/calculator/ to estimate the correct rebuild cost or get a property valuation service to value the cost of rebuilding your home. e SCSI site has charts and Frequency Asked Questions that will point you in the right direction.
john@ellis nancial.ie
086 8362622
“Your policy might not be fully protected...
In the latest news from Alzheimer’s Disease International, the number of people with dementia is set to almost double every 20 years.
However, the good news is that, in seeking a safe yet e ective way to predict Alzheimer’s disease, researchers have found a sugar molecule in the blood of a ected patients. When combined with a simple memory test and genetic analysis, the research team was able to predict the onset of the condition up to a decade in advance with a signi cant degree of accuracy.
e protocol could soon join others in helping scientists spot Alzheimer’s in advance of its symptoms and take steps to halt its progression.
It seems that almost daily, scientists are getting closer and closer to nding new ways to predict the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We’ve seen attempts at using wearables to track movement patterns associated with the condition; algorithms that can analyse PET scans to spot signs of the disease years in advance; and analyses that have found 75 genomic regions associated with the disease.
Testing of bodily uids is also showing promise as a predictive modality but, because removing cerebrospinal uid is always a risky proposition, researchers are trying to work out ways to spot the disease using much simpler blood tests.
at’s the case for scientists at Karolinska Institutet (KI) in Sweden. Previously, researchers there showed that sugar-based substances called glycans found in cerebrospinal uid could be linked to the presence of tau proteins in the body. High levels of abnormal tau in the brain is one of the primary markers of Alzheimer’s disease, so nding it early in the body could be a
Every crow thinks their own crow is the fairest, someone once said. Perhaps, though, your child is gifted. It’s a question that many parents often think about.
Most gifted children can learn and process information faster than children their age and comprehend material several grade levels above their peers.
But they are not always well-behaved, high-achieving students. In fact, neuroscience experts say that giftedness looks di erent in each child.
Here are ve unexpected signs that your child is highly gifted:
1. Asynchronous development
Does your bright child struggle with simple tasks like tying shoelaces or remembering to brush their teeth?
ese are just a few examples of asynchronous development — or developing more quickly in some areas than others. It’s common for gifted children.
A gifted eight-year-old
way to predict the onset of the condition.
In fact, the team found that people with matching levels of
tau and glycans were twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s than those without the markers.
In the new study, the team found that glycans, sugarbased molecules that coat proteins, are also present in
the blood. By combining that information with a genetic analysis and a memory test, they could predict the onset
lation skills to navigate those big feelings.
3. Existential questioning
Gifted children often have an insatiable curiosity, especially about the existential aspects of life. ey may be more concerned about issues like death, poverty, climate change and injustices than their peers. Even a movie or book intended for children that tackles the topic of bullying, for example, can prompt them to ask questions about the nature of society.
Questions can range from “What happens when we die?” to “Why do bad things happen in the world?”
4. Unique interests or a mature sense of humour
of Alzheimer’s with 80% accuracy up to 10 years before the symptoms of memory loss appeared.
“ e role of glycans, structures made up of sugar molecules, is a relatively unexplored eld in dementia research,” says the study’s rst author Robin Zhou, medical student and a liated researcher at KI.
“We demonstrate in our study that blood levels of glycans are altered early during the development of the disease. is could mean that we’ll be able to predict the risk of Alzheimer’s disease with only a blood test and a memory test.”
In working out the data, the research team looked at blood samples collected between 2001 and 2004 from 233 people who had participated in a national Swedish study on aging. Monitoring regarding signs of dementia and memory loss was carried out every three to six years for 17 years in total, so a link between blood chemistry and memory loss could be easily established.
As a next step, the researchers will be looking at additional blood samples involved in both the Swedish study as well as aging studies conducted outside the country. e team is also working to put the ndings into practice in clinical settings.
“We’re collaborating with researchers in primary care in Sweden to evaluate di erent biomarkers for dementia at primary health care centres,” said senior study author Schedin Weiss. “We hope that glycans in the blood will prove to be a valuable complement to current methods of screening people for Alzheimer’s disease that will enable the disease to be detected early.” is latesst research from Karolinska Institute has been published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia.
topic than others their age.
5. Underachievement in school
Gifted children have an extreme need for constant mental stimulation. In school, they can be easily bored because they learn things faster than their peers.
When school is not challenging or interesting enough, they may lose their motivation. (Consider how you’d feel after an eight-hour work shift where you are not challenged or engaged.)
Even though they can do the work easily — they often have excellent reasoning skills and memory — they see no purpose and stop trying.
could display the reading skills of a 12-year-old, the math ability of a 10-yearold, with social skills at their age level, but the emotional regulation of a much younger child.
2. Emotional depth and
sensitivity at a young age Neuroscientists suggest that gifted children experience more intense emotional reactions to the world around them.
For example, they may have a hard time enjoying shows where a character gets hurt
or is sad. Many also have a heightened sense of justice and can experience frustration and disappointment when they feel that a situation is wrong. Due to their asynchronous development, they may not yet have the emotional regu-
When a student is making high-level chemistry puns or studying mass transit maps of major cities, parents sometimes worry that their child is missing out on their childhood or not “being a kid”.
In reality, their children may just have a more advanced understanding of a
Gifted children have massive potential. At its core, giftedness is a brain-based di erence that contributes to our vibrant and intellectually diverse world.
Exploring it further in your child can give you a better understanding of who they are, and give them advanced resources to reach their full potential.
Five signs your child may be gifted
A lot of travellers in the know prefer country hotels. at’s because country hotels o er a more intimate experience, and as their name suggests – the countryside setting is also something to cherish.
at’s certainly true for Irish country hotels – they are big on location, a personalised experience, and also the fact that their properties are very unique.
So if you had to experience the comforts, luxury and beautiful settings of Ireland’s country hotels, where would you go for that special night or weekend away?
ink stunning private parklands, oak staircases, ornate replaces and properties that are steeped in history. Already dreaming?
We’ll help turn your dream into reality. Here is a list to get you started, from the international website Travel2Ireland, and where better to start then. Our own Lyrath Estate...
1. Lyrath Estate – Kilkenny
Lyrath Estate is a ve-star hotel that boasts gorgeous grounds spread over 170 acres of the Irish countryside. You have picturesque lakes, historic gardens and emerald woodlands.
But that’s not all. is hotel o ers air-conditioned rooms, Oasis Spa with an indoor in nity pool [pictured here], a leisure centre and two awardwinning restaurants. Free WiFi is available throughout. Guests can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep at Lyrath Estate as rooms are soundproof and have blackout curtains. Each room includes a 43-inch atscreen TV and overlooks the estate.
e Leisure Centre boasts a 17 m swimming pool, a gym, a steam room and a jacuzzi with a smaller splash pool for younger children. Oasis Spa o ers a range of treatments, and pre-booking of appointments is essential.
Contemporary Irish cuisine is on the menu at Yew Restaurant which uses locally sourced ingredients while Tupper’s is a traditional Irish bar which also serves bar
While packing cubes are easy to nd, and their purpose seems pretty straightforward, there are several ways to make these helpful packing tools even more e cient. Implementing a few small changes with packing cubes can turn the process of packing a suitcase into a stress-free event.
It can be tempting to purchase packing cubes in bulk that are all the same size. Instead, though, once you have your packing list narrowed down, try buying cubes that speci cally t the dimensions of the items you’re bringing along. is approach frees up room in your luggage for other items you want to travel with too. It might even create added space for souvenirs you plan
food. e Grill & Bar features an open kitchen, cocktail bar and panoramic views. It is located on the mezzanine level and features dishes such as Tomahawk steak and lobster.
Truly a world within itself...
2.Ballyseede Castle –Tralee
Who doesn’t dream of staying in a castle? ink fourposter beds, ornate marble replaces, elegant drawing rooms, and a property that allows you to step back in time.
Ballyseede Castle is a country hotel that provides elegant accommodation, ne dining with traditional
Irish cuisine, and rooms that tell a story. Add to it the picturesque natural setting, and you will have an unforgettable holiday. is will set your heart a utter...
3. Cabra Castle Hotel –Cavan
Now this is one country hotel experience that you are unlikely to forget. It may well turn out to be the best holiday you ever had. Castles, with their nooks and crannies and ancient histories, are magical places. Just tailor-made for exploring. You will nd yourself wandering through the magni cent reception
Luggage: getting the best out of those packing cubes
rooms, nding a quiet corner or reside to relax with a book, or just enjoying the atmosphere in one of the best-known castle hotels in Ireland. is hotel has such an old-world charm that it makes you forget the worries and hurried pace of modern life.
4. Harvey’s Point –Donegal
You are certain to fall for its large and luxurious rooms and the spectacular views of the lake and the mountains. Perhaps you would never like to leave this gorgeous Irish country hotel because the award-winning cuisine has made your day. Find yourself in this magical location amid
the Bluestack Mountains, on the edge of Lough Eske and you can have both – a relaxed as well as a romantic time.
5. Dromoland Castle –Newmarket on Fergus is should be on your list of some of the best country house hotels to stay at. Imagine taking a stroll in its 450-acre estate. Teeing o on their world class golf course. Or dressed in a pretty gown and having your afternoon tea by a roaring re. No matter what your preference, at Dromoland Castle there’s no escaping the sense that you are walking in the shadows of kings. is is because Dromoland Castle
to bring home from the trip.
Investing in packing cubes that come in a variety of sizes is a good way to avoid overstu ng cubes full of items as well. Purposefully limiting available space in a few packing cubes can help you stay within airline luggage weight restrictions. It’s also a good reminder that if something doesn’t t in the designated cube, there’s a good chance it doesn’t need to be in your suitcase at all.
Visually, having packing cubes of di erent sizes in your suitcase can make locating what you’re looking for that much easier. Items will not only be separated by size, but the cube dimensions will be a direct indicator of where to search.
It’s a simple way to save time
has been welcoming guests since the 16th century. It’s the ancestral home of the O’Briens of Dromoland, whose lineage dates back 1,000 years to Brian Boru, one of the last High Kings of Ireland. Situated in Newmarket on Fergus, 3.1 km from Dromoland Castle, Dromoland Castle features accommodation with a tness centre, free private parking, a garden and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, the property also has a bar, as well as an indoor pool and a sauna. e accommodation provides room service and a 24-hour front desk for guests.
and eliminate unnecessary travel stress.
When you’re packing for, say, a couple of children within a single suitcase, using di erent packing cube colours for each person is helpful. Varying colours make for a quick and easy search for speci c personal items within shared luggage. You can also position packing cubes carrying similar items near one another in a suitcase for added e ciency. Consider placing cubes with clothing on one side of the suitcase while cubes with accessories like gadgets and toiletries go on the opposite side. Once the cubes are categorised in this way, placing larger cubes on the bottom and tting smaller packing cubes in between can save space.
A professor stood before his philosophy class with some items in front of him. When the class began, he picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to ll it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. ey agreed that it was.
e professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
e pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He asked the students again if the jar was full. ey agreed it was.
e professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. e sand, understandably, lled up everything else. Once more he asked if the jar was full. e students responded with a unanimous ‘yes.’ e professor then produced two glasses of
wine from under the table and poured the contents into the jar lling the empty space between the sand. e students laughed.
“Now,” said the professor as the laughter subsided, “I want you to recognise that this jar represents your life. e golf balls are the important things, your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favourite passions and, if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full.
“ e pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car. e sand is everything else, the small stu . If you put the sand into the jar rst,” he continued, “there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. e same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stu you will
never have room for the things that are important to you.
“Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Spend time with your children. Spend time with your parents. Visit with grandparents. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner. Enjoy a movie together. ere will always be time to clean the house and x the plumbing. Take care of the golf balls rst, the things that really matter. Set your priorities. e rest is just sand.”
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the wine represented. e professor smiled and said: “I’m glad you asked. e wine just shows you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of glasses of wine with a friend.”
Mary Quant, iconic fashion designer of the ‘60s, who popularised the miniskirt, died on April 13 in her 93rd year. Dame Barbara Mary Quant had a huge impact on the fashion industry. She also had a huge impact on the minds, and bodies (and souls) of Irish Catholic boys in the throes of puberty (I know, I was one). Mary Quant featured regularly in my monthly trips to confession, oh not by name, but she, thanks to the miniskirt, was responsible for what we young men confessed as ‘impure thoughts’ (the most natural thoughts in the world!). Meanwhile. here are two short (they would have to be short) ditties re Mary ‘s miniskirt (and no impure thoughts, please)
e Mini
ere was a young lady called Quant
Who gave us a skirt, short and scant Female thighs looked alluring Men looked; men were drooling ought: I would if I could, but I can’t!
Women in Minis
When I set about recalling the Emergency years in this part of Ireland I wondered where I should start. I posed this question tentatively to veterans of that shadowy era and the answer they all gave was the same: the 1939 “ under and lightning” All-Ireland!
at singular event seemed to mark the opening shot in the six year ordeal the country was to face…as nations surrounding us went to war against each other, making the world a very much more dangerous place in which to live, whether you were a native of Callan, or dwelt in any other part of our imperilled little rain and wind-swept nation on the fringes of Europe.
Callan newspaper correspondent Seamus O’ Brien, like the majority of Irish people at the time, had little interest in the political earthquakes convulsing Europe in the days leading up to war. Kilkenny folk were focused on the great sporting challenge that awaited their county team in Croke Park, where it faced Cork in the all-Ireland showdown.
Seamus found it hard to contain his excitement at the prospect of attending the big match, having collected sixpences and threepenny bits for his rst ever trip to Dublin.
On the morning, he and other locals, including fellow teenager Sean Holden, cycled to the train station in Kilkenny
and bought return tickets to Kingsbridge. e fare was seven shillings and sixpence. e journey was an experience in itself for them. Youngsters and adults alike sang rebel songs, laughed, and drank bottles of stout in anticipation of the much-heralded duel of Ireland’s hurling giants.
Seamus and Sean were among a group of Callan fans that enjoyed a four-course meal in Cleary’s Restaurant. e nourishing hot soup, followed by lashings of bacon
and cabbage with oury potatoes forti ed them for the gruelling encounter that lay ahead, for they would not only be observing the game as spectators…they would live every heart-stopping second of it, as if they were down there on the pitch amid that marathon display of athletic skills.
Seamus was not the only Callan native on his rst Dublin visit. Jimmy Farrell, when asked by a waitress in Cleary’s what he would like for “sweet”, answered: “ah sure bull’s eyes would be lovely.”
e entrance fee to Croke Park was one shilling. Seamus was thrilled to have change out of his two-shilling piece for the pub afterwards. e stout would rest easy with the hearty meal. He found himself seated in the canal end of the uncompleted Cusack Stand.
He noticed there was no roof over where he sat, but in
the heady atmosphere of the moment this meant nothing to Seamus or to any of the thousands of ecstatic fans who had assembled to watch. A deafening cheer went up as the two teams ran unto the pitch. Seamus felt a surge of elation such he had never known. Hearing a match on the radio was ne, but this was the real thing. He trembled as the whistle blew. e ball was thrown in.
Above him was a troubled sky. Storm clouds gathered over the most hallowed sporting venue in Ireland... (An extract from my book Are We Invaded Yet?)
(To be continued...)
Europe could not blindly follow the United States’ lead and should avoid “getting dragged into crises that are not our own,” said French President Emmanuel Macron on his return from his recent trip to China. This remark, referring to Taiwan, has caused some observers to claim that Macron is undercutting the trans-Atlantic front against China, even though he went on to reiterate France’s support for the status quo in Taiwan.
He expanded in a vein many commentators also found controversial: “Europeans cannot resolve the crisis in Ukraine; how can we credibly say on Taiwan, ‘watch out, if you do something wrong, we will be there?’”
Commentators may worry over Macron’s blunt comments, but his remarks reveal the deeper motivations for his trip to China: that the European Union should find its own voice in world affairs and not let its worldview and interests be shaped by others, whether in Washington or Beijing.
Though US policymakers may not be ready to hear it, the uncomfortable truth is that Macron is saying out loud what many European partners quietly believe.
Behind closed doors, European leaders genuinely worry about walking in lockstep with Washington into an open conflict with China. Europeans are concerned with many aspects of China’s behaviour, from unfair trade practices to human rights abuses.
The European Commission has been willing to confront some of these issues and even labeled China a “systemic rival promoting alternative models of governance” in 2019, a term that Paris has embraced. But many Europeans are less comfortable getting dragged into a confrontational approach that they sometimes see as more linked to the United States’
fears of losing its global primacy than sound policymaking. That’s a reality the United States will need to accept as it works with Europe to build a common approach for dealing with China. Successfully countering Beijing will be as much about forging a unified economic strategy as it will be about military matters, and the United States must heed
the misgivings, nuances, and interests of its European counterparts — the leaders of one of the world’s largest trading blocs — if it wants its approach to work.
Plans to reshape the European Union in France’s image have met stiff resistance.
To Save His Pension Reform Bill, Macron Has Lost France And he is getting himself in trouble abroad, too.
Across the European continent, leaders have carefully calibrated their approach toward Beijing, and it’s clear that they are walking a tightrope trying to balance economic interests with other priorities. Macron isn’t alone in this respect, and his visit to China, accompanied by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, was hardly an isolated inci-
Meanwhile, even the loudest proponents of alignment with the United States in Central and Eastern Europe are still part of the 14+1 forum with Beijing — China’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine has not changed that.
While the Biden administration should be praised for forging strong trans-Atlantic unity in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, it has not been as successful in doing so for China. President Joe Biden’s signature transAtlantic initiative, the Trade and Technology Council, has not led to alignment on digital norms and supply chains.
On the contrary, the Biden administration has doubled down on Trump-era protectionism. Trans-Atlantic negotiators still bicker over Trump’s steel tariffs even while the Inflation Reduction Act, passed by the U.S. Congress in August 2022, provides massive subsides to U.S. industry at the expense of European partners.
dent. A few months ago, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz travelled to China, followed weeks later by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. Both leaders had cordial meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping and were busy negotiating business deals for their respective countries.
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni plans to head to Beijing in May to do the same.
Moreover, many European leaders doubt the sincerity of their American interlocutors when Washington sets a double standard for its own behaviour. For instance, while the United States has pressured Europe to cut ties with China, US-China trade reached a record high of $690 billion in 2022. While the EUChina Comprehensive Agreement on Investment was shelved after much trans-Atlantic pressure — and in part because of China’s sanctioning of several EU officials — the Trump administration’s Phase One trade agreement with Beijing is still in place.
Despite the obvious tensions at play, there’s no need for Washington to despair, because a more autonomous Europe will only benefit the United States’ push against China in the long run. To compete with Beijing, Washington will need a credible partner, not a set of aligned clients.
A year plus after Russia’s onslaught on Ukraine, the number of countries condemning Russia has declined, according to some sources. Botswana has edged towards Russia from its original pro-Ukraine stance, South Africa is moving from neutral to Russialeaning and Colombia from condemning Russia to a neutral stance. At the same time, a large number of countries have been reluctant to support Ukraine.
In Africa, despite the African Union’s call on Moscow for an “immediate ceasefire” most countries remain neutral. Some observers argue that this is the result of a tradition of left-leaning regimes that goes back to the cold war period. Others, indicate that the current unwillingness of African countries originates in the history of Western in-
tervention, sometimes covert and others overt, in their internal affairs.
The reluctance to condemn Russia, however, goes beyond
Africa. In February 2023, most Latin American countries supported a UN resolution to call for an immediate and unconditional Russian
withdrawal. And, yet, despite Brazil’s support for several UN resolutions in Ukraine’s favour, it has not condemned Russia outright. Within the UN, the stance of Bolivia, Cuba, El Salvador and Venezuela has allowed Russia to evade western sanctions. Furthermore, Brazil, Argentina and Chile, rejected calls to send military material to Ukraine, and Mexico questioned Germany’s decision to provide tanks to Ukraine.
The same divisions are evident in Asia. While Japan and South Korea have openly denounced Russia, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has not collectively done so. China approaches the conflict through a balancing act through its strategic partnership with Russia and its increasing influence in the UN. During its time as a
member of the UN Security Council, India abstained on votes related to the conflict.
Such a cautious and neutral position has been influenced by the cold war’s nonalignment movement which was perceived as a way for developing countries to fight the conflict “on their terms” and thus acquire a degree of foreign policy autonomy, outside the Soviet Union and the West’s sphere of influence. Studies of EU sanctions have argued that an unwillingness of other countries to back the EU position can relate to both a desire for foreign policy independence and an unwillingness to antagonise a neighbour.
Non-alignment allows countries to avoid becoming entangled in the rising geopolitical tensions between the west and Russia. It is perhaps
for this reason that many democratic countries maintain a stance of neutrality, preferring, as South African president Cyril Ramaphosa put it, to “talk to both sides”.
On the eve of the war’s anniversary, South Africa held a joint naval drill with Russia and China. For South Africa the benefits from the exercise relate to security through capacity building for its underfunded and overstretched navy. More broadly, there are trade incentives for South Africa’s neutral stance. Russia is the largest exporter of arms to the African continent. It also supplies nuclear power and, importantly, 30% of the continent’s grain supplies such as wheat, with 70% of Russia’s overall exports to the continent concentrated in four countries including South Africa.
1. This competition is sponsored by The Kilkenny Observer
2. The prize will be a €100 voucher for Goods of Kilkenny
3. The closing date for entries is Friday, April 21st 2023 at 5.00pm
4. The winner will be chosen by an open draw held at the office of The Kilkenny Observer on Monday, April 24th 2023
5. The prize is non-transferable; no cash equivalents may be claimed.
6. All competition entries must be completed on the above form only.
7. The winner will be advised by phone / e-mail
8. After being notified, the name of the winner will be posted in the next edition of the Kilkenny Observer.
9. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted these rules and to have agreed to be bound by them when entering the competition.
10. The competition is not open to The Kilkenny Observer employees or their families.
The downward trend of global dairy prices as markets rebalance has still some way to go, the chief executive of Dairygold has warned. On market prices that will ultimately translate into milk prices, Conor Galvin said the price of butter, whole milk powders and skim milk powders had all dropped by 30-35% on world markets in
the first quarter of this year. “They were unprecedented high prices and in the last three months, the April price for those flagship commodities is down 30-35%.
“The market has been softening since the turn of the year and the challenge now is the market continues to trend downwards and, looking at some of the futures, you’d be concerned
In the five years 2018 to 2022 there were a total of 34 vehicle related fatalities on Irish farms, which sees the Health & Safety Authority (HSA) “seriously concerned” with safety issues around farm vehicles in Ireland.
A specific focus is being placed on tractors and quad bikes (ATVs) as they continue to be a leading cause of vehicle related fatality on Irish farms.
In the five year period 2018 to 2022 there were a total of 34 vehicle related fatalities on Irish farms.
Of the 34 vehicle related fatalities 18 involved tractors and four involved quad bikes (ATVs). Of the four quad bike (ATV) related fatalities, two involved children and two people over 60.
Of the 18 farm fatalities involving tractors 10 involved people aged 65 or over
The current Farm Safety Action plan was published by the HSA, in partnership with Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee to cover 2021- 2024 and focuses on safety critical areas on farms. The new plan places a particular focus on high-risk activities, particularly tractors, ATVs and general vehicle use. The requirement for training and PPE when using an ATV for work purposes is a new requirement which has been deemed necessary to reduce the number of serious injuries and fatalities resulting from the use of ATVs, particularly on farms. The new regulations, which apply to all workplaces, comes into force in November 2023 and HSA Inspectors during this campaign will be offering guidance to farmers on ensuring compliance in advance of the November deadline.
Pat Griffin, Senior Inspector with the Health and Safety Authority, said: “We’re running
there is a little bit more to go still,” he told Farming Independent.
“There has been a levelling-off in February but in the last two or three weeks, we’ve seen some further slippage in market prices. The concern is, as we come into a flush in Europe particularly over the next six weeks, that the supply-overdemand imbalance will con -
tinue to keep market prices under pressure. And that would reflect back in milk (prices).”
Post-pandemic supply bottlenecks and the war in Ukraine combined with stable demand led to increased milk prices, he said. “We had charts that used to only go to 40c/L and then we ended up over 40c/L and we thought, ‘That’s the end of it,’
then we had to have charts that had 50s in them and I don’t think any of us believed it would get that high.”
Lakeland Dairies too warned last week that the high milk prices for farmers that characterised the market last year are unlikely to sustain.
Lakeland Dairies group chief executive Colin Kelly said tougher global condi -
tions are now weighing on international milk prices including as a result of weaker demand from China.
Buyers are also shifting back to a ‘just in time’ stocking model from the ‘just in case’ strategy of stockpiling supplies adopted by many during Covid and the early stages of the Ukraine war, which translates into reduced demand.
this inspection campaign primarily to encourage farmers to take time to plan for the safe use of tractors and machinery ahead of the busy silage harvesting season. We urge famers to plan ahead and make sure all involved in silage harvesting, all workers and contractors, have the necessary training and competence to do the job safely. Safe systems of work that minimise risk must be planned for on each farm and followed by all involved.
“Training must take place if it hasn’t already, particularly for new operators, to ensure the safe use of all machinery. The condition of the machinery to be used is also critical and any maintenance required should be identified and addressed now, well in advance of use, particularly to hitching, steering and braking systems.”
The majority of injuries and fatalities with tractors, ATVs or farm machinery involve a combination of operator error, poor maintenance procedures and a lack of training, combined with the presence of children/elderly near the work activity.
Farmers need to consider the following:
• Has the work activity been planned in advance?
• Have all drivers or operators received adequate instruction and training?
• Are brakes, handbrakes or parking brakes working properly?
• Are cabs and doors in good condition?
• Are tractor mirrors clean, in good condition and set correctly?
• Do all operators of vehicles have the correct PPE?
• Is work organised to avoid the presence of young children or other vulnerable individuals such as elderly family members?
Féile Lachtain 2023 was recently launched in Freshford by Chairman of Kilkenny Co. Council Pat Fitzpatrick. In his address, Cllr Fitzpatrick signalled the one-day loan by the National Museum of the Shrine of St Lachtain’s Arm to Ionad Lachtain in Freshford as the single most important cultural event in the county this year. This event will happen on Saturday, June 17, 2023.
Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is based at St Lachtain’s Church of Ireland, Freshford. The centre was established in 2017 in order to
promote the iconic Church of St Lachtain as a visitor and heritage centre.
In his address, Cllr Fitzpatrick congratulated the Ionad Lachtain committee on its endeavours since its foundation. He noted the presence of a local museum and the benefit of having an outlet for local craft workers in Freshford. He acknowledged the enlightened approach of the authorities at the National Museum in facilitating the display of one of the ‘treasures’ of Ireland outside the capital city for the first time. He encouraged everyone to avail of the opportunity of seeing this important piece of our heritage in a local setting.
The launch of Feile Lachtain 2023 was followed by the first lecture of the year. There was a warm welcome for author Siobhán Doyle’s talk on her book,A History of the GA. in 100 Objects. Siobhán outlined some of the items which caught her attention during her research and highlighted those with a Kilkenny connection.
Following the lecture, Cllr Fitzpatrick unveiled a painting by local artist Larry Hamilton. The painting consists of an artistic interpretation of the hymn Lachtaín Naofa written in calligraphy and surrounded by a floral motif. Lachtaín Naofa was composed by the late Tom
Waldron in 1984 in honour of the patron saint of Freshford.
Harpist Mary Kelly opened and closed the proceedings last Saturday. It was revealed that Mary had turned down the opportunity to play at the welcome home ceremony for President Biden in Ballina on his recent visit in order to play in her native Freshford.
The next item on the Féile Lachtain 2023 programme takes place when Fleadh Cheoil Chill Chainnigh returns to the village for the second year in a row. The highlight of the weekend will be the Fleadh Cheoil Concert in Ionad Lachtain.
Bernadette Moloney has been appointed Biodiversity Officer for the County Council after serving as Environmental Awareness Officer.
New Head of Heritage and Climate Change with the Kilkenny-based group Catherine Casey told KCLR there
were many benefits from having a team of officers in each county instead of each council having individual people working on their own. Biodiversity officers have been appointed to four more local authorities, complementing four other officers already working in councils
across the country. Counties Kilkenny, Offaly, Cork City, and Wicklow local authorities have welcomed the new officers as part of an initiative announced last year.
Biodiversity officers are already working in Fingal, Dublin City, Dún Laoghaire-
Rathdown, and Galway City. Almost all local authorities have now received funding – which totals €1.6 million – to start appointing biodiversity officers, with the full appointment of officers in all authorities nationwide expected to be completed before the end of 2024.
“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.”
These words are from the pen of poet Robert Laurence Binyon, written 1914, dealing with Patriotism and Sacrifice. The poem titled, “For the Fallen” memorializes soldiers who died in battle during World War I. The poem acknowledges the profound loss of the soldiers' lives while also emphasizing the nobility of their sacrifice.
These words will have a special meaning on April 23rd when a group from ‘The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee’ meet to remember Anzac day.
Each year, In April . Australians and New Zealanders
come together to honour their people who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
ANZAC stands for “Australian and New Zealand Army Corps” and is one of the most important national celebrations across Australia and New Zealand. Chair of the ‘Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee’, Donal Croghan explained to The Kilkenny Observer that 123 people from Kilkenny served in the Anzac forces. Twenty-two soldiers and one nurse died.
And so, at 16.30 on Sunday, April 23rd people are invited to gather at the World War I monument at The Peace Park in Kilkenny to remember those that had taken part in The Anzac forces.
The event is being held to remember those from the South East of Ireland who served in the ANZAC Forces .
The Ambassadors from Australia and New Zealand will be in attendance for the ceremony.
The day will consist of prayer, poetry, music, wreath laying, playing of the last Post and Reveille.
There will also be a flag raising ceremony and the event will conclude with the Australian, New Zealand and Irish national anthems. Irish soldiers, Clergy and
nurses were all volunteers who signed up with the new country where they had emigrated to. Both Australia and New Zealand identities were
Part 14
e dadser is showing slight signs of remorse at his treatment of the girls, since their mother died. Whether he is genuine in these expressions or not – only time will tell…
Molly had just been thinking that however things went, ‘the Babs would make a fair st of things - probably better than herself’ - when the father suddenly surprised her with a quiet warning – spoken completely without hostility: which was amazing: “Mollers – don’t be too sure you’ve seen the last of the Dacent Boy.”
Aye, her mind had just been straying back to her resolute little sister, standing just behind her, watching out for the dire Paudhaun – although they were both sure he’d legged it for his mammy’s place.
Now, she had to take on board this unexpected warning about Paudhaun. Even more strange was her
father’s retreat from bluster and threat. But Paudhaun was the big worry. She had only one cartridge – even if she decided to use it – which we’re not sure of. If the Paudhaun returned – she could only ‘wing’ one of them. en they were done for. Either man was easily capable of capturing both of them – would only have to grab one - and the other couldn’t - and wouldn’t - leave the eld All these images ashed before Molly’s unblinking eyes, as she stared hard the man who fathered her. He’d only ever been prevented from completely showing his innate cheapness and love of scum company by the good pleadings and example of a great wife. But in the end, he was true to form, letting her down, letting her go, more or less helping her on her way….
Bitterness at these sad thoughts permeated Molly’s consciousness, and she felt no compassion or sorrow for the creature who was now, for the rst time ever, in her power. As much triggerpressure as it would take to pluck a September rose –and he’d be gone. Now – the problem: ght
or ight? She cursed herself for not taking an extra few cartridges. What to do? ey couldn’t all hold position out in this Siberian bloody eld. She also didn’t know how long the aura of warmth would last – it could switch o any tick of the clock – then they were in big trouble: only movement would keep a bit of life in them then. So, she spoke to her father. “Mr Connolly” {this hurt him, genuinely} – “Turn your face from me for a second or two.” Fear took over Mikey then, and in a trembling voice he pleaded “you’re not going to shoot your daddy in the back, are you, girl? You couldn’t be that bad, surely?” “Just turn around, Mikey – or you’ll only have the one leg to do it on! And don’t look back at me! Do it!” Seeing the Four Ten suddenly de ecting downwards, he gulped – and obeyed. Turned, slowly. As soon as he was completely facing away, he heard the metallic snap as Molly ‘broke’ {opened} the shotgun. He knew the sound well – but any action noise from the weapon was welcome: it was noise that he’d never hear that frightened him.
A few seconds, then a small slap of metal as the gun was closed up again. We know, reader, that Molly Connolly would never re a fatal shot at her father. But he didn’t. Which was no bad thing.
What with having heard her blow the big scian away out of the Paudhaun’s paw – and how quick she was to throw down on him – and all this nasty ‘Mr Mikey Connolly’ stu – and the lip of her! He felt he knew nothing at all about this daughter. ‘But one good sure thing – God Bless the Mark! – was that it’s not the Babs who’s the oldest – I could be in real trouble then! No ‘go back’ at all in that one!’
Aye, he was thinking clear enough, now: and she’d obviously broken the breech to shove a fresh cartridge into the right barrel. ‘Cripes! My big mouth! Mentioning the Paudhaun! at’s why she’s reloaded!’ Now came the ‘click’ as a hammer was thumbed back. A terrible sound. Fear took him over, again. As it was probably meant to. “Turn around, Mr Connolly” came the chilly order. He did. Slowly. Carefully. as you do in such situations… e weapon was once more horizontal: but ideas of a ‘rush’ were long gone from his head. His days of gambling had taught him one sure thing: when an adversary held all the top cards - quit.
Fleeting regrets are now ickering through his mind, regarding his {ill}-treatment of their deceased mother. And the gambling and drinking away of money
that could have made their little lives a lot less hard, a lot more more bearable.
Anyway, Molly is now sick of the sight of him. His loutish sel shness had been bad enough: this cringeing wasn’t much better. Funny; she’d never taken him for a coward – until now. So, he should have been mightily relieved when Molly suddenly – out of the blue - says to him: “Mikey Connolly! Boyo - it’s time you weren’t here!” He could go! Life wasn’t going to end! But this strange scene – two little girls, a strange ghostly shepdog – the Paudhaun wounded – a gun in the dim starlight – his daughter holding it trained on him –he at her mercy: who could have imagined it? ere was no warmth in daughters’ voice. Yes, he knew he was free to go, in safety. But, oddly, he didn’t want to run away. Not because of bravado, or Dutch courage. Mikey had never dreamt that life would come to this kind of pass. at day he’d be alone in the world. e same as nobody dreams of death. Not pleasant subjects. Now, with the girls gone, life would be a lot colder, a lot bleaker. Rogue as he was, they gave him many small pleasures. Why hadn’t he been kinder to them? Well, that was an un-answerable one. Like us all – maybe he didn’t know
the luck he had: now it had run out. But, starting this late-on to show regrets and sorrow would make him look a fair hypocrite. en again - this was his last chance to leave them with some kind of good memory of him. One thing he knew: they would never return to the house. So, he looked straight at his eldest girl, who’d lowered the muzzle of the Four Ten towards the ground. But it was still ‘cocked.’ “Molly, I know you won’t believe me, but I am sorry I wasn’t better to you two. I can tell it’s all over, but I wish it wasn’t. Is there anything I can say that would do any good.” Before Molly could answer, a small rm response came – from Babsie. “Yes, father, there is something you could say that would help.” Great! Help from the wilful one! He was amazed! “Right, Babsie – what can I say that will improve things, girlie?” Silence for a few seconds, then the clear small voice came again: “You can say ‘Goodbye,’ father.”
To be continued….
Disclaimer e opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not re ect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of e Kilkenny Observer.
Family members and friends took part in the Liturgy. e O ertory procession included items which re ected Elaine’s many interests, mainly, her love of knitting and travel. She loved singing and was a loyal member of the Bennettsbridge Parish choir, children’s choir and Folk choir. Her nephew shared some special memories of a much loved aunt, her love of family, community and her nursing life. She bore her illness with great courage and was an example to all.
Music throughout the ceremony was provided by Sean O’Neill and soloist, Martina Burke.
Elaine was predeceased by her mother, Nellie and is survived by her husband Karl and son James.
ere was much sadness in Bennettsbridge when news of the death of Elaine Dillon was announced. Elaine died on 5th April 2023, in the loving care of the kind sta at the Oak Ward, Palliative Care Unit, University Hospital, Waterford. A member of the Hennessy family and a native of reecastles, Elaine had lived in Dunbell Big, Ballyreddin since her marriage to Karl. She was a very popular and caring person and her untimely death is regretted by
all. A devoted member of the nursing profession the large attendance at her funeral and the numerous on-line messages bore testimony to the esteem in which she was held by all.
Canon Pat Dalton welcomed family, friends and neighbours to the Requiem Mass in St Bennett’s Church, in celebration of Elaine’s life. He o ered sympathy to her husband Karl, son James and extended family on behalf of the parish.
She is also mourned by her father Victor, brother omas, sister Kathryn (Costello), sister-in-law Constance, brother-in-law Larry, parentsin-law Anne and Milo Dillon, nieces and nephews Mary, Helena, Siobhán, Michael, Eleanor, Victor, Gillian and Pierce, God-parents Biddy and Michael Buckley, aunts, uncles, extended family and many friends.
Family, neighbours, friends and work colleagues paid their nal respects in Johnston's Funeral Home, John's Green, Kilkenny, where vigil prayers were recited. Burial took place in Tulla Cemetery, reecastles.
Rest in peace Elaine!
– are we all playing our part?
PHOTOS: Pat Shortall
“Please know that I am as surprised as you that I nd myself standing before you this morning as the future bishop of Ossory. A telephone call from the apostolic nunciature on a recent Sunday evening asking me to come to Dublin for a meeting began a process that brings me here today to what is the beginning of a new life and ministry for me, and a new chapter for the Ossory diocese.. But here I am! Truly, I am feeling daunted by the prospect and know that it will only be by God’s grace and your welcome and ongoing support that I will be able to minister fruitfully here.”
ose were the words spoken by Bishop Coll at St Mary’s Cathedral
on Friday October 28th. And the welcome he received in October was made all the sweeter when Mayor David Fitzgerald along with fellow councillors and o cials joined at city hall for a mayoral reception to welcome the Bishop.
Mayor Fitzgerald said : “that like St Columcille, Bishop Niall has left his home in Donegal to travel a long distance to become a new member of our community in Kilkenny. On behalf of the people of Kilkenny, I welcomed him to the marble City and wish him many years of happiness and success in his new role of Bishop of Ossory.
Bishop Niall said he was delighted to meet so many friendly faces and thanked David Fitzgerald for his welcome.
Following last year's successful run of XIV, Barnstorm’s Kilkenny Youth Theatre return to Ionad Dara, Goresbridge with their annual production. This year they bring their version of William Shakespeare's classic Macbeth to the stage.
Macbeth tells the story of the tragic downfall of the warrior Macbeth, whose ambition causes him to abandon his morals and bring about the near destruction of the kingdom he seeks to rule.
The cast of Macbeth includes Matthew Hickey, Chris Power, Liam O'Neill, Anna Eustace, Eoin Cleary, Medha Trehan, Nell Snyder, Anna Purcell Duff, Ruby
Woods, Matthew Downey, Maeve Coyle Twomey, Jack Hoyne, Helen Doran, Katie Lawlor, Aoibhne Murphy, Aislin Konings Ferrari, Rionach Brady and Charlotte Lockwood Hutchinson.
This year's production is directed by Rosey Hayes, who was a member of Kilkenny Youth Theatre back in 2007. She trained as an actor and has appeared in many guises on stage and film. In 2022 she joined Barnstorm Theatre Company as Kilkenny Youth Theatre officer.
Rosey summed up the experience over the last year: "It has been a genuine pleasure working with such a talented ensemble to bring this story to life.
Having come through KYT myself, I can honestly say it was the catalyst for pursuing an artistic career and the benefits of taking part in a youth theatre production cannot be underestimated in terms of a young person's social and personal development."
Macbeth is running on Friday April 28th and Saturday April 29th at 8 pm, with a matinee on Saturday at 3pm, in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge, R95 D654. Tickets are €12.50 /€10 (Under 18’s) and can be booked on Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite. com/e/533520543307 or contact Barnstorm 056 77 51266
e Minister for Health
Stephen Donnelly T.D. was in omastown, Co. Kilkenny on ursday afternoon (6th of April, 2023), where he visited St. Columba’s Hospital and the adjacent construction site of a new Community Nursing Unit.
e HSE entered a public private partnership (PPP) with EquiSisk Community Care Partnership Ltd in December 2022 for the design, build, nance, operation
and maintenance of seven Community Nursing Units (including a 95 bed CNU in omastown, Co. Kilkenny to replace the adjoining St. Columba’s Hospital). e construction period now under way will take two years and following a 25 year period the ownership and responsibility for operation and maintenance will revert to the HSE.
Welcoming Minister Donnelly to St. Columba’s
Hospital and the Sisk and Co. construction site for the new Community Nursing Unit, Helen McDaid (Head of Service/Older Persons and Acting Chief O cer, HSE/South East Community Healthcare) said:
“ ere is a long history of dedicated care for the older person at St. Columba’s Hospital but we are delighted that this will be now set to continue in a state of the art new facility being constructed
on an adjacent site.”
“ e 95 bed omastown Community Nursing Unit will comprise of three households of 25 en suite rooms. is model a person-centred approach which focusses on the quality of life, which supports autonomy and the opportunity to continue to direct residents’ own lives in accordance with their cognitive and physical abilities. ere will also be two 10 en suite bedroomed dementia speci c
residential households. e environment will re ect the comforts of home, with assistance provided as necessary
in the performance of everyday tasks. ere is provision within the entire compliment for 10 short stay places. “
Prep: 20 mins
Cook: 35 mins
Serves: 2
is healthier katsu is coated in nely chopped aked almonds and baked in the oven (rather than fried) until crisp and golden. If you’re following a healthy diet plan then this a great dish to add to your repertoire.
Ingredients
• 25g aked almonds
• 1 tsp cold-pressed rapeseed oil
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 300g/11oz total)
• lime wedges, for squeezing over
• For the sauce
• 2 tsp cold-pressed rapeseed oil
• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, nely chopped
• thumb-sized piece ginger, peeled and nely chopped
• 2 tsp medium curry powder
• 1 star anise
• ¼ tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tbsp plain wholemeal our
For the rice
• 100g long-grain brown rice
• 2 spring onions, nely sliced (include the green part)
For the salad
• 1 medium carrot, peeled into long strips with a vegetable peeler
• ⅓ cucumber, peeled into long strips with a vegetable peeler
• 1 small red chilli, nely chopped
Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 50 mins
Plus at least 2 hrs
marinating and resting
Serves: 6
Make this classic Indian dish for deliciously moist lamb with paneer, rice and spinach, all spiced to perfection. Great for casua
Ingredients
• 400g lamb neck, cut into small cubes
• 4 garlic cloves, grated
• 1 tbsp finely grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sunflower oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp cumin seeds
(deseeded if you don’t like it too hot)
• juice ½ lime
• small handful mint leaves
• small handful coriander leaves
Method
STEP 1
Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas
7. Cook the brown rice in plenty of boiling water for 35 mins or until very tender.
STEP 2
Crush the almonds using a pestle and mortar, or blitz in a food processor until nely chopped, then sprinkle
over a plate. Grease a small baking tray with a little of the oil. Brush the chicken on both sides with the remaining oil and season well. Coat the chicken with the nuts and place on the tray. Press any remaining nuts from the plate onto each breast. Bake for 20 mins or until browned and cooked through. Rest for 4-5 mins on the tray, then slice thickly.
STEP 3
Meanwhile, make the sauce. Heat the oil in a medium non-stick saucepan and add the onion, garlic and ginger. Loosely cover the pan and fry gently for 8 mins or until softened and
lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid for the nal 2 mins, and don’t let the garlic burn.
STEP 4
Stir in the curry powder, star anise, turmeric and a good grinding of black pepper. Cook for a few secs more, stirring. Sprinkle over the our and stir well. Gradually add 400ml water to the pan, stirring constantly.
STEP 5
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 10 mins, stirring occasionally. If it begins to splutter, cover loosely with a lid. Remove the pan from the
• 1 tbsp nigella seeds
• 1 tbsp Madras spice paste
• 200g basmati rice, rinsed well
• 8 curry leaves
• 400ml good-quality lamb or chicken stock
• 100g paneer, chopped
heat and blitz the sauce with a stick blender until very smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Keep warm.
STEP 6
Once the rice is tender, add the spring onions and cook for 1 min more. Drain well, then leave to stand for a few mins while you make the salad. Toss the carrot and cucumber with the chilli, lime juice and herbs.
STEP 7
Divide the sliced chicken between two plates, pour over the sauce and serve with the rice, salad and lime wedges for squeezing over.
• 200g spinach, cooked and water squeezed out
To serve
• chopped coriander
• sliced green chillies
• plain yogurt
Method
STEP 1
Toss the lamb in a bowl with the garlic, ginger and a large pinch of salt. Marinate in the fridge overnight or for at least a couple of hours.
STEP 2
Heat the oil in a casserole.
Fry the lamb for 5-10 mins
until starting to brown. Add the onion, cumin seeds and nigella seeds, and cook for 5 mins until starting to soften. Stir in the curry paste, then cook for 1 min more. Scatter in the rice and curry leaves, then pour over the stock and bring to the boil. Meanwhile, heat oven to 180C/160C fan/ gas 4.
STEP 3
Stir in the paneer, spinach and some seasoning. Cover the dish with a tight lid of foil, then put the lid on to ensure it’s well sealed. Cook in the oven for 20 mins, then leave to stand, covered, for 10 mins. Bring the dish to the table, remove the lid and foil, scatter with the coriander and chillies and serve with yogurt on the side.
For the last 100 years, e Walt Disney Company has created some of the world’s most beloved and well-known characters, movies, and theme parks. We all have our favourites and lesser-known secret gems close to our hearts. And there are many programs or lms that even the biggest self-proclaimed Disney fan still needs to learn of. Including everything is impossible, so many favourites, including many recent lms like Frozen and Encanto, will be left o . is list celebrates the company’s history and everything that made Disney the embodiment of wonder, creativity, innovation, and heart. Let’s explore chronologically everything the Disney enthusiast should watch.
Although the Mickey Mouse (1928) shorts were not the rst creations from Walt Disney, they cemented the company into the creative powerhouse it would become. Plane Crazy was rst produced, but Steamboat Willie was the rst released, and it dazzled audiences because it was the rst animated creation with synchronised sound. It may seem rudimentary, but at the time, it was revolutionary.
After Mickey, they created more cartoon shorts for characters like Donald Duck and Goofy and the Silly Symphonies, many of which are funny, beautiful, and touching.
Seven Dwarfs
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) was the rst full-length animated movie. It was nicknamed ‘Disney’s folly’
by naysayers in Hollywood, but it dazzled and captivated audiences of all ages upon release. While the story may seem simplistic and sentimental to some modern audiences, the lm has inherent charm and beauty.
Audiences laughed and wept at the lm’s premiere, including actors Clark Gable and Carole Lombard, proving that animation is more than just “silly cartoons for children”. is lm demonstrates that moving drawings can tap into human emotions and move people.
Walt Disney said, “I hope that we never lose sight of one thing. at it was all started by a mouse.” While that is undeniably true, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is the rst ‘ lm’ that was a true beginning that took the company to a new level as far as success and innovation.
3. Pinocchio
After the immense success of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the pressure was on to create another successful animated lm. Story and technology-wise, Pinocchio (1940) lived up to those expectations. e profound story demonstrates how animation can convey complex characters and emotions. e animation is also stunning, with the multi-plane camera developing leaps and bounds.
Upon initial release, Pinocchio was considered a nancial disappointment, but re-releases more than earned back its expensive budget. Despite these economic woes, the lm earned much-deserved praise. e movie won two Oscars for Best Original Score and Best
Song, the rst feature-length animated lm to do so. Notably, that award-winning song, ‘When You Wish Upon a Star’, became the theme for the entire company.
4. Sleeping Beauty
Although the story from 1959 is simple and sweet without the gravitas of other Disney animated lms, Sleeping Beauty’s place in Disney history should not be denied. It technologically pushed the boundaries of how animation was lmed as the second shot in widescreen 2:55:1 aspect ratio, the rst in 70mm Technirama, and one of the rst to use stereophonic sound. ese advances may seem ordinary or foreign to modern audiences, but they were signi cant achievements. Moreover, many (including myself) consider Sleeping Beauty to be Walt Disney’s artistic masterpiece. From the George Bruns adapted score of Peter Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty ballet to the Frenchinspired stylised, meticulous, and breathtaking backgrounds from artist Eyvind Earle, everything about Sleeping Beauty is grand and sumptuous in its artistry. (Available to watch on Disney+)
5. Swiss Family Robinson
Although this was not the rst live-action adventure lm Disney produced, it is the nest. e story (1960) about a family that shipwrecks on a deserted island and creates an incredible tree house to live in is a beautiful and captivating story about family, love, overcoming adversity, and the strength and ingenuity of the human condition.
Many lmmakers, includ ing George Lucas, have cited this lm as inspiration for their movies, and without it, we may never have seen Pirates of the Caribbean. Filmed on location on the is lands of Trinidad and Tobago, every Disney fan should treat them selves to this heartfelt adventure.
6. e Parent Trap
e original (and supe rior) version of e Parent Trap (1961), starring Hayley Mills, Brian Keith, and Mau reen O’Hara, is a delightful and heartwarming comedy. And it’s essential viewing for myriad reasons. One reason is that Hayley Mills was the Disney darling of the 1960s, appearing in six Disney mov ies. And, while all of the lms are fantastic and could also be included on this list, especially Pollyanna and Sum mer Magic, there is something special about the creation of e Parent Trap.
In the lm, Hayley Mills portrays identical twins. While a double for Mills was visible from the back, much of the lm has her on-screen as both twins in multiple scenes. e special e ects utilised to achieve this were so impressive that audiences believed that Mills was twins. It’s a fantastic feat that solidi es this lm as a groundbreaking part of the company’s history.
A favourite Disney lm is what many consider to
be Walt Disney’s crowning achievement. is musical fantasy follows the magical nanny Mary Poppins who brings whimsy into the lives of the Banks children, takes them on adventures into chalk drawings and over the rooftops of London with her chimney sweep friend Bert, and helps Mr. Banks remember what matters most is his family.
e performances from Andrews and Van Dyke are iconic. e visuals are stun-
ning, including the gorgeous use of matte paintings by Peter Ellenshaw and a remarkable development in the depiction of live actors in animated sequences. e fantastic songs from the Sherman Brothers are arguably their nest work, ranging from toe-tapping to lyrically creative to beautifully moving.
e movie was nominated for 13 Oscars, including Best Picture, and won ve.
LOTTO
Lotto Results 11th April. Numbers drawn,1, 17, 24. No Jackpot winner. €30 each to John Corr, Rosita Corr, Francis O Carroll, Jake Byrne, Pauline Fitzpatrick. Next weeks Jackpot is €1,900. Thanks to all for your support.
HURLING
MINOR LOSS
Clara followed up their first round loss to Gowran with another defeat at the hands of last years Roinn B champions Thomastown at home on Monday of last week. Facing a strong wind in the first half some resolute defending kept the Clara boys within eight points at hal ime, and the 0-11 to 0-3 scoreline seemed far from insurmountable with the aid of the elements to come.
Conor Hoyne had accounted for two of the Clara points, one from a free, and Eoin Corr had registered the other. However Thomastown showed that they weren’t going to relinquish the lead easily when they scored five of the first seven points of the second half to push their lead out to 11. Clara rallied briefly and scored four points on the trot but they never looked like scoring the goal that they needed to really eat into the lead. Thomastown introduced a couple of substitutes that were better than the lads they replaced and they ran out comfortable winners 1-17 to 0-10 Clara have yet to fire like they can and they need their leaders to step up in the forthcoming games.
Team - Padraic Meany, John Bergin, Philip Carrigan, Tom Murphy. Hugh Kelly, David Barcoe 0-2, 0-1f, Alex Firbank. Dillon Cummins, Luke Lawlor. Bill Kealy, Conor Hoyne 0-5, 0-1f, Eoin Corr 0-2. Tommy Delaney 0-1, Joe Power, Conor Galvin. Subs Orí Phelan, Peter Firbank, Sam Lawlor.
FEILE
The Clara U15 Feile team played two matches in this year’s competition in Clara against Barrow Rangers and Carrickshock. Both games were very tight, with the very young Clara team narrowly losing both. In their first match they were very unfortunate to lose 1-5 to 1-3 to Barrow Rangers who scored a goal with the last play of the game. Padraig Meany scored 1-2 with Dara Leamy scoring 0-1. The Rangers then went on to win out the Division two final and congratulations to them. But it just showed the tight margins between success and going home early. The young Clara boys have the comfort of knowing that they were very competitive and should remain so in the coming years. Indeed 16 of the panel of 20 are underage again for next year. The second game was even tighter with Carrickshock prevailing 2-7 to 2-6 a er a really entertaining game. A Pádraic Meany penalty goal helped keep Clara within a point at hal ime. Carrickshock increased their lead to 5 early in the second half but these Clara lads refused to throw in the towel and a Rory Treacy goal along with a Padraic Meany pointed free had the game on a knife edge down the stretch. The ‘Shock bravely clung on under some intense Clara pressure but hurling was the real winner here as two teams went toe to toe right to the final whistle. Well done to both teams. Well done also to Clara mentors John Leamy, Michael Meany and Brendan Barcoe. Team - Rory Bowden Mullen, Liam Treacy, Orí Phelan, Jim Carrigan. Robert Coogan, Lucas Healy, Sam Lawlor. Peter Firbank, Pádraic Meany. Dara Leamy, Aidan O Connell, Mícheál Meany. Sam Corr, Darragh Kenny, Matthew Cooke. Subs: Oliver Butler, Aaron Carrigan, James McDonald, Liam O’Callaghan, Rory Treacy.
JUNIOR D
They say that goals win games and this was clearly illustrated in Graignamanagh last Friday evening when the hosts beat Clara 3-11 to 1-12. This was Graig’s second team facing Clara’s third team so it wasn’t bad to even be competitive here, which Clara were. Graignamanagh’s first score of the game was a goal and Clara were le chasing the game therea er. A further Graignamanagh goal soon before the break halted the Clara comeback somewhat. Three points apiece by Rory Glynn and Jim Kehoe as well as one each from Ben Nolan and Sean Carrigan le the boys in maroon trailing 2-5 to 0-8 at hal ime. The home side came up with another goal early in the second half which le Clara with a mountain to climb and although a Nick O Kee e goal kept them somewhat in touch they never got close enough to really test Graig’s mettle. Two more Jim Kehoe points and one each from Sean Carrigan and Peter Nolan was all Clara could muster and Graig-
namanagh ran out comfortable enough winners with 5 points to spare. Team - James Dowling, Ben Crow, Zach Lawlor, John Brennan. Harry Boyle, Peter Nolan 0-1f, Rory Glynn 0-3. Jim Kehoe 0-5, 0-3f, Adam Harding. Sean Carrigan 0-2, Luke Whelan, Ruairi Breen. Ned Langton, Ben Nolan 0-1, Eoin Harding. Subs Ben Murphy, Nick O Kee e 1-0, Alex McDonald.
SENIOR FOOTBALL
Clara were dealt a di icult away draw to O Loughlins in the Preliminary round of the senior football championship. There is never much between these local rivals and this one went right down to the wire also. O Loughlins, playing with the aid of a strong breeze, were first o the mark with a pointed free and they soon doubled their advantage. But Clara adapted and sensibly started to carry the ball into the wind. They were soon level courtesy of a Ned Langton point following a sweeping move and a Liam Ryan fisted e ort. Then Peter Nolan put them ahead and were it not for some terrible free taking and some other squandered chances, they could have carried a nice lead into the second half. As it was O Loughlins equalised and so the game was tied at three points apiece at the break. Clara wasted little time in going ahead with the breeze. First player manager Alan Coleman split the posts and then Kevin Nolan gave Clara a two point advantage. Then a er O’ Loughlins had pegged one back, Ned Langton set up Sean Carrigan to blast to the net for the game’s only goal. When Jack Langton scored a fine point it looked like the O’ Loughlins challenge might peter out but some butchered gilt edged chances from Clara gave them a lifeline. Three points in a row brought them back within two but a well struck Ned Langton free o the ground steadied the ship and O Loughlins could only manage a last second pointed free in response. This le the final score at 1-7 to 0-8 in favour of the country team. Ciaran Prendergast made one fine save and his long kickouts were a feature of the game. David Langton was very solid under the high ball and received great support from Shane Staunton and Tom Ryan in the full back line. The half back line of Liam Ryan, Jack Langton and Dara Glynn surged forward at every opportunity as did Alan Coleman in the middle of the field. Killian Phelan played more of a holding role as did wing forward Martin O Connell. Harry Boyle emptied himself with a huge work rate and Kevin Nolan was as composed on the ball as ever although the shooting boots weren’t up to their usual standards. The full forward line of Ned Langton, Peter Nolan and Sean Carrigan all scored and were always available for ball and Cian Kelly brought fresh legs and great energy to proceedings when introduced. The other substitutes Sean O Shea, Ben Murphy and James Dowling were all nursing niggly injuries and were not risked. Overall it was a very satisfying win and great credit to O’ Loughlins too for never giving up the ghost and making it a very entertaining match. Alan Coleman’s selectors Pat Mulrooney and Kevin Armitage were spot on with all their calls here too. Team - Ciaran Prendergast, Shane Staunton, David Langton, Tom Ryan. Liam Ryan 0-1, Jack Langton 0-1, Dara Glynn. Alan Coleman 0-1, Killian Phelan. Harry Boyle, Kevin Nolan 0-1, Martin O Connell. Ned Langton 0-2, 0-1f, Peter Nolan 0-1, Sean Carrigan 1-0. Subs Cian Kelly. James Dowling, Ben Murphy, Sean O Shea.
CAMOGIE
Camogie U12.
The under 12s played in the Cáman 2 Leinster Mini Games hosted by Kilkenny Camogie County Board in Nowlan Park on Thursday 13th April. There were 48 teams in all playing over 3 sessions during the day. Clara played teams from Carlow, Meath and Laois. They had some tough matches and showed some fantastic goal scoring and goal saving skills as well as determined defending. Well done to all the girls.
Camogie U15 Feile.
The U15 team played in Division 4 of the Feile. The group games were held in Kilmacow on Sunday 16th April. Clara played Kilmacow and Graiguenamanagh. They qualified for the final against Graiguenamanagh which was held in the Kells road pitch. Clara started well in fantastic sunny conditions. Clara scored a great goal finished by Olivia Power a er conceding an early point. They got a point from a free before half time and went in at the break 1-1 to 0-1 up. Early in the second half Clara conceded a goal which levelled the game. The Clara defence was under pressure until Moya Kelly scored a fantastic goal. Clara put the opposition defence under fierce pressure which led to
a second goal from Olivia Power. Amy Bergin scored two more hard won frees to leave the final score at 3-3 to 1-3. Scorers Olivia Power 2-0 Moya Kelly 1-0 Amy Bergin 0-3 (frees). A well deserved win for Clara.
CLUB LOTTO
There was no winner of club lotto April 11th. Numbers drawn were 1, 5, 12, 21 Bonus 3.Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto
PRIZE WINNERS. 1. Margaret Doyle c/o Esther Maher. 2. Sonny Cullen c/o JJ Cullen
3. Clare Mahony. 4. Ann Loy. 5. Clare Mahony. 6. Helen O’Brien c/o Moxie Doran
7. Patti O’Neil c/o Esther Maher. 8. Niall O’Callaghan c/o Online. 9. Nigel Skehan c/o Online
10. Geraldine Hogan, Agha, Johnswell c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support
PLAYER NEWS
We wish all our club players continued success as they line out with their respective Kilkenny teams. It is a great achievement and a source of great pride for our club. Juvenile teams have returned to collective training on Sunday mornings for the boys and Saturday mornings for the girls. Training will commence shortly for midweek training on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 6:15pm. All new members welcome.
Hard luck to our boys and girls féile teams who both put in the hard yards and we’re unlucky not to advance to their respective finals.
SARAH AND BREANNA ARE ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS
Well done to Sarah Johnson and Breanna Kelly who both claimed National Boxing Titles at the National Stadium at the weekend representing Marble City Boxing Club. Both girls are John’s Parish girls and their schools, club and families are very proud. Well done girls
JUNIOR CAMOGIE
Junior O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club train on Monday and Friday evenings at 7pm in St. John’s Park. We are looking for players to sign up and get involved, have fun and enjoy playing camogie. Contact Ciara for information on Message 086 378 5969
PAT WALSH RIP
Local people were shocked and saddened last week to hear of the unexpected passing of a local man Pat Walsh, late of Chapel Street Freshford. Although in his mid-eighties his death caused widespread shock and sadnesss. He was a member of a well known family in the village. He was a quiet ino ensive and good living gentleman. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved his family and he loved to read his newspaper and his game of bingo over the years. His funeral mass took place on Friday morning last in St.Lachtains church followed by burial a erwards in St.Lachtains Cemetery. He is mourned by his wife Noreen, sons Tom, Patrick and William, daughters Catherine and Ann, seven grandchildren, sons in law, daughters in law, brother, sisters, brothers in law, sisters in law, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.
BOXING CHAMPS
Two young boxers from the Freshford/Urlingford Boxing Club won two All Ireland medals at the National Stadium on Saturday last. Brothers John and William Delaney both were winners. John who was in the 38.5 Kgs weight
division and William was in the 29Kgs division. Both won a er a busy week with 3 bouts a quarter final, semi-final and final for the brothers. Both winning their respective fights in a convincing fashion. This is a huge achievement for a small club like Freshford/Urlingford and everyone involved should be extremely proud of the achievements of these young boxers. Particularly, Pat Stokes, Michael McCarthy and Sid Martin who coached the boxers for the past year. This win will hopefully encourage more winners and it is a just reward for the work being done by the local Club. The parents of both young boxers must take credit too and John and William are dedicated to the sport and have worked so hard to achieve what they have at this young age.
IONAD LACHTAIN HERITAGE CENTRE
Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 to 4.30. Gi s on sale to suit every occasion.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Friday, April 28th. Remembering Freshford’s Bands - music by the Super Noodles and friends. New museum displays to be launched include a new ecclesiastical exhibition, a collection of carpenter’s tools and a unique collection of concert tickets. All are welcome. Admission is free.
CIORCAL GAELACH
There will be an evening of informal conversation in Irish on Wednesday 26th April at 8.30pm in Kavanaghs, Freshford. Everyone is welcome to come along and use their cupla focal.
DARTS
The semi-final of the John McGrath cup took place in Kavanaghs, with Farrells defeating Valley Inn and going through to the final to meet Kavanagh’s. The final took place in McGraths with Farrells coming out clear victors on a 3-0 scoreline to claim the Cup. It was fitting that Paul Dermody received the Cup as he is grandson of the late John McGrath in whose memory the cup was donated. Eddie Cli ord was player of the match on the night. The final of the B league of the Freshford and District League took place recently when Kavanaghs took on and defeated The Rock in Killeens. Kavanaghs took lead but the Rock pulled it back to2-2. Kavanagh’s then went on to a comprehensive 5-2 win
CAMOGIE AND GAA
Kilkenny Intermediate Camogie side finished level with Cork in their game on Saturday last. Sinead Farrell is the sub keeper with the team.
Kilkenny minors had a good win over Dublin in their game at Pairc Lachtain on Sunday last. Well done to St.Lachtains Féile team with 3 wins from 4 games in Gowran.
Congrats to St Lachtains player Mark Donnelly who was part of Kilkenny U20 squad who defeated Dublin on Saturday last.
The Easter Camp took place at the GAA Grounds last week. Although the weather wasn’t very favourable the kids all enjoyed it and had a visit on the last day of the camp from local Kilkenny hurler Darren Brennan to give some good advice to the youngsters.
A day that will live long in the memory of St.Lachtains U11 boys as they graced the grounds of Croke Park to play in the Go Games. It was a great experience for this young team to get the opportunity to play in Croke Park and here’s hoping it could be the first of many playing trips in the future to Croke Park for some of these players. Special thanks goes out to the management for their work in making the day such a success for the young players.
Ballyouskill progressive 25s continues on a monthly basis. Next game Friday 28th April. March winners Pa Maher and Paddy Ra er. Runners up, N. Cummins, J. Gannon, Mary Malone, Frances Dunne, Padraig and Noreen Ryan
LOTTO RESULTS
St. Patrick’s GAA Ballyragget Lotto Results 7,13,18,21 No winner Jackpot stands at €20,000 tickets are on sale locally or online via Clubforce.
BINGO
Bingo continues on Wednesday nights in the CYMS hall 7.30pm.
GAA
MATCH RESULTS
The minors were in action against Muckalee on Easter Monday, the game ended Muckalee 3-17 St Patricks 4-9. The Junior A hurling side had their first game in Hugginstown against Carrickshock on Friday April 14th, the scoreline ending St Patrick’s 0-19 to Carrickshock 2-12. The Under 15 side were in Féile action at home last Saturday morning playing Graigue Ballycallan and Dunnamaggin.
Upcoming fixtures. Sunday 23rd April at 5.30pm, vs Slieverue in Ballyragget
Thank you all for your continued support.
ZUMBA
Zumba in the CYMS hall has a new term which began on April 17th and continues every Tuesday at 7pm, 6 weeks for €50. Contact Rebecca 0851403387 TIDY TOWNS
Well done to the Tidy Towns committee on their continued hard work there was great turn out and Trojan work done on Saturday last on route to the cemetery. New volunteers are always welcome.
BALLYRAGGETT NOTES
Notes can be emailed to ballyraggetballyouskill@gmail. com
HURLING
The under-15 hurlers claimed the Paddy Grace Division 3 Féile title with a well deserved victory over a spirited Bennettsbridge team on Saturday last. Having failed to break past the semi final stage in the past 2 seasons, a convincing 10 point victory gave Conahy the glory a er a long day of hurling action. The day began bright and early as Conahy started well with a pair of strong wins against Glenmore, who were the hosts of the group stage, followed by Graignamanagh. Although the final game against Bennettsbridge was then a dead rubber with both teams already through to the next stage, this was a highly competitive game with a hard fought draw being the final result.
The a ernoon brought the team to John’s Park, where Tullaroan awaited in the semi-final. Conahy produced their best performance of the day, as they took control of the game from start to finish, creating many excellent team scores in the process, highlighted with a terrific Michael Lawler point from out on the sideline to begin the game. This set the stage for a rematch with Bennettsbridge, who had been successful in their own semi-final. Conahy got o to a flying start, with a goal from Jack Rhatigan directly from the throw in. This was followed up with another fine individual goal from Adam Morrissey before the break, leaving Conahy well in command at half time.
Bennettsbridge fought hard to claw their way back, but as tired bodies set in, the Conahy team maintained their composure to see out the victory, the final score being 2-8 to 0-4. The Conahy team were outstanding throughout the day, led by captain Jack Rhatigan, who accepted the trophy on behalf of the team. Conahy now travel forward to represent Kilkenny in the regional Féile tournament, which is scheduled to take place on June 24th, which will be an exciting day for all involved.
TEAM: Neil Webster, Rory Dunne, Tadgh Hennessy, Rory Rhatigan, Ceirin Murphy, Finn Sherman, Darragh Horgan, Billy Rowe, Patrick Kennedy, Joe Boland, Jack Rhatigan, Rory Sherman, Adam Morrissey, Michael Lawler, Brian Phelan, Padraic Quinn, Camryn Kenehan, Bobby Dooley, James Byrne, MJ Buggy.
The minor hurlers were also winners last week when they scored a good victory over Mullinavat on Monday last in Jenkinstown in the Kilkenny Motor Centre Roinn C League. Conahy were on top from the early stages and a goal from Jack Rhatigan and a hat trick of goals from Daniel Mooney, along with some good points from Eoin Dunne and Jake Dooley, gave them a good scoring advantage. The visitors fought back well in the second half but
Conahy finished well with some good points to win out by 4-9 to 1-6 for their first win of the season.
TEAM: Tommy Mulhall, Tadhg Hennessy, Conor Hennessy, Killian Lacey, Rory Rhatigan, John Kennedy, Darragh Horgan, Jake Dooley, Andrew O’Connor, Ben Duggan, Eoin Dunne, Jack Rhatigan, Patrick Kennedy, Daniel Mooney, David Ring, Adam Morrissey, Brian Phelan, Finn Sherman, Joe Boland, Billy Rowe, Neil Webster.
In adult hurling action, both the Junior B and Junior E sides were back in action for their first competitive league outings of the year. The junior B side travelled to Urlingford on Sunday to take on Emeralds and produced an excellent performance to score a 6-12 to 1-11 victory over the home side. The junior E side, were less fortunate as they were outplayed by the side they hosted in Jenkinstown on Saturday evening last, Mooncoin. The Southerners were well on top throughout the game and scored an impressive 4-17 to 0-10 victory. Following the game, the winning Junior F team, from last year were presented with the winning league and championship medals from their success last year.
JUNIOR B TEAM: Paul Buggy, Conor Duggan, Donal Cass, Padraig Gunner, Darragh Hennessy, Donal Brennan, Frank Gunner, Robert Ring, Eoin Carroll, Oisin O’Connor, Harry O’Mahony, Darragh Dooley, Brooklyn Synott, Sean Brennan, Bill Murphy, Billy Mulhall, Kieran Brennan, Damien Cuddihy.
JUNIOR E TEAM: Andy O’Kee e, Sean Dunne, Tom Nolan, Justin Brophy, Cian Harding, Darragh Hennessy, Frank Gunner, Paddy Mullan, Damien Cuddihy, Billy Mulhall, Martin Fitzpatrick, Oisin O’Connor, Conor Watters, Gary Kavanagh, Brian Rossiter, Padraig Conway, Peter Harding.
CAMOGIE
The under-12 camogie girls had a day to remember on Sunday last when they travelled to Croke Park to play at half-time in the National League camogie final. They were also in action on Friday last in Nowlan Park as part of the Camán to Leinster Blitz. Well done to the girls and all the adults who were involved in organising and looking a er the girls on both days.
TEAM: Hannah Boland, Michelle Cahill, Ruth Carroll, Sophie Conway, Fiadh Coogan, Aobha Dunne, Isobel Dunne, Emily English, Bríd Gamble, Emily Kennedy,
Sophie Meaney, Rachel Mulhall, Katy Murphy, Grace O’Meara, Sadie Todd.
The under-15 camogie girls were also in action in the County Féile competition on Sunday last. They faced Lisdowney, Blacks & Whites and Mullinavat in their three group matches and enjoyed two wins in the first two games. However, a defeat in their final game against Mullinavat meant that they narrowly lost out on qualification for the final on scoring di erence. Well done to all the girls and coaches on an excellent e ort.
TEAM Roisín Phelan, Danielle Morrissey, Emma Mulhall and Ellen Gunner were also all part of the Kilkenny intermediate camogie team that drew with Cork in the Division 2B League Final in Clonmel on Saturday last.
The club is also holding a fundraising table quiz in the GAA Clubhouse on this Sunday, April 23rd at 5.00 p.m. Tables of 4 cost €20 and all support would be most welcome.
CLUB LOTTO
The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 4, 13 and 41. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Shane Byrne, Padraic Healy, Shem Butler, Dom Brennan and Walter McCullagh. The promoters’ prize winners were Helen Cahill, Seamus Óg Brennan and Julie Jackman. This week’s jackpot now increases to €2,900.
GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT
Well done to Marie and Ina who won the Ladies Nett prize at the open scramble at Ashgrove and Mark Kirk who finished runner up in the junior section at the Scratch Cup.
U-11S ENJOY MEMORABLE GOOD FRIDAY EXPERIENCE
The Young Irelands U-11 Hurlers made Good Friday a memorable one following a memorable trip to Croke Park over Easter Weekend. It’s a most unusual sight for Croke Park to be open on Good Friday, but for the Young Irelands boys it was a unique experience that provided them with lifetime memories. 28 Players were involved and they were divided up into Two Teams for their 9-aside games.
The boys were given a tour of the dressing rooms on arrival and ran through the tunnel to Croke Park.
The Young Irelands Red Team played Naomh Eoin Myshall(Carlow), while The Young Irelands White Team played Borris-in-Ossory /Kilcotton of Laois. The Boys performed superbly before climbing the steps on the Hogan Stand to li the silverware.
A erwards, The Boys went o to Li ey Valley for plenty of fun and activities to round o a most memorable Good Friday. Wonderful Memories that will last a lifetime
U-14 HURLING
Well done to Dylan Brennan, Darragh Corcoran and Tomás Carroll who represented Young Irelands on Easter Weekend with the Kilkenny GAA U14 North Development Squads as they played Carlow in Netwatch Cullen Park. Dylan was goalkeeper, Darragh played wing-back while Tomás was playing centre-forward.
YOUNG IRELANDS DOG NIGHT
Save The Date for Sunday 28th May as Young Irelands hope to stage their annual Dog night in Kilkenny Greyhound Track. Last year’s event was the first since 2019 due to The Pandemic and it’s hoped to get The Camogie Club onboard similar to last year to make the night a success. Keep an eye out on The Young Irelands Facebook page in the coming weeks for further details.
2023 HURLING LEAGUE-CHAMPIONSHIPS DRAWS ARE MADE
The Draws for The 2023 League-Championships in Senior, Intermediate and Junior were made at April’s County Board Meeting in Nowlan Park last week. Young Irelands Intermediates begin their campaign against 2020 Intermediate Champions Lisdowney who are back in The Intermediate Grade following Relegation from The Senior ranks last year. The Gowran Men will have further games against Fenians, Mooncoin, St. Martins and Conahy Shamrocks.
The Group Stages of The League will commence in August.
PADDY PLAYS PART AS KILKENNY U-20S WIN
THRILLER
Paddy Langton lined out at le -half back as Kilkenny defeated Galway 5-20 to 3-20 in a thriller in The Round Robin stage of The Leinster U-20 Championship in Tullamore on Saturday.
Paddy was a member of last year’s Kilkenny Team that won The All-Ireland, as Kilkenny got their defence of The All-Ireland back on track following defeat to Wexford on Easter Weekend.
MINORS COMPLETE HAT-TRICK OF VICTORIES
The Young Irelands Minor A Hurlers continued their excellent start to the season in The Minor Roinn A League, as they completed a hat-trick of victories with a narrow win away to Piltown on Easter Monday Night. Having defeated Clara in their opening game(4-10 to 0-9), Young Irelands made it two wins from two with a 3-13 to 0-12 win at home to Erins Own of Castlecomer. Jake Byrne led the way in attack with 0-9 all from frees, while Thomas Langton grabbed a brace of goals with Mikey Keating also adding a goal as the Gowran boys strolled to an easy win. The hat-trick of victories was complete following a hard fought 0-17 to 2-10 win in Piltown.
The Young Irelands Minor A Hurlers had a runaway victory
on Monday night when they made it four out of four by beating Mooncoin 6-18 to 0-12.
JULIE PLAYS STARRING ROLE AS KILKENNY EASE TO VICTORY
Julie Lennon played a starring role for The Kilkenny Minor Camogie Team on Sunday in Freshford, as she was among the goal scorers with Kilkenny easing to a 4-15 to 2-7 against Dublin in The All-Ireland Championship. Aisling Fitzpatrick is also part of The Panel.
FÉILE 2023
It was a very busy weekend for Young Irelands who were a host Club in both The Féile Hurling and Camogie competitions.
Last Saturday Morning, The U-15 Féile Hurlers were in action but unfortunately lost both of their matches. They lost 2-10 to 3-3 against Thomastown before losing 1-7 to 0-6 against subsequent finalists John Lockes Callan. Meanwhile, The U-15 Feile Camogie girls played four matches in Gowran on Sunday Morning. They got o to a great start as they won 3-3 to 1-3 against Glenmore, but unfortunately lost their next three matches a erwards. They lost 2-2 to 1-1 against Emeralds, before losing 2-4 to 1-2 against Tullogher and that was rounded o with a 5-5 to 0-2 loss against St. Lachtains of Freshford. Disappointment overall with the results, but huge credit to Young Irelands for been splendid hosts, that was very well received by opposition Clubs.
JUNIOR F HURLING
Unfortunately, it was a very disappointing start to The Junior F Hurlers who su ered a heavy defeat to Mullina-
vat in Gowran on Sunday Night. Two first-half goals put Mullinavat 10 points ahead at half-time, before a third goal in the Third Quarter confirmed Mullinavat’s superior dominan
TABLE QUIZ
Table Quiz in aid of Gowran National School Sensory Garden on Friday May 5th at 9pm in Loughlin’s Bar, Gowran.
Tables of 4, €40 - €10 per person, with ra le and finger food on night. Please support this worthy cause.
LOTTO
No winner of jackpot. Numbers, 17,19,25,28. Jackpot now €6,550.00. Consolation prizes, Lila Ryan, Woodlawn, Margaret Nolan, Hill View, Sue Doyle, Barronsland, Shanagarry Syndicate, Liam Murphy, Kilfane.
EASTER CAMP
What a week at the Bennettsbridge Easter Camp. The inclement weather did not dampen the enthusiasm of the youngsters who took part. Massive thanks to the GAA club for the use of the grounds. Some future Kilkenny stars in the making. Well done everybody!!
GATHERING GROUP
Next Wednesday a bus trip has been organised to visit Li ey Valley Shopping Centre.
CHURCH NEWS
Mass times in Bennettsbridge Wednesday and Friday morning 10.30am.
Trocaire boxes or donations are still being accepted and can be handed in to the sacristy Many thanks for the generosity of parishioners to the Easter O erings. The priests of the parish are very grateful for your support.
GRAND NATIONAL DRAW
Bórd na N-Óg Grand National Draw results
1st: Bill Bergin. 2nd: Ol Berry. 3rd: Robbie Dobbyn. 4th: Willow Simpson. Last place: John Forristal Thanks again to all who bought and sold tickets and to all who helped out with the draw. Your support is greatly appreciated.
GAA Club Games
The junior leagues kicked o during the last week. The junior E game versus Tullogher was postponed. The junior B team played Glenmore on Sunday last but lost out by three points. The minors defeated Carrickshock in the minor league and played Tullogher last Monday night. Losing 0-19 to 1-9
FÉILE
Féile Hurling and Camogie 2023
Bennettsbridge under 15s played some great hurling in this year’s Féile last Saturday. The lads defeated Graiguenamanagh, and Glenmore and drew with Conahy in the group stage. They then defeated Blacks and Whites in the semi-final but unfortunately lost out to Conahy in the final in Dunmore on Saturday evening. Well done to all the lads who played their hearts out all day.
Huge congratulations to the Féile camogie team who won their Féile competition on Sunday. They came out of a tough group including Erin’s Own, St Anne’s and Barrow Rangers. The final was played in the Kells Road and the girls defeated Mullinavat to claim the title. Well done to all the panel of players and management on a great victory.
UNDER 20 HURLING
Bill Hughes was on the Kilkenny panel that had a very good win over Galway at the weekend.
MEMBERSHIP 2023
Membership for 2023 is now being collected by registrar Samantha McGarry or any committee member. Membership remains the same as last year. 120 for adult players, 80 for student players, and 40 euro for non-playing members. Early payment would be most appreciated as the bills for 2023 are now due.
BUY A BRICK CAMPAIGN
We are in our fourth year of our “buy a brick” campaign. Thanks to everyone who has supported so far. Anyone new who wishes to contribute please see BBGAADEV@ gmail.com. All contributions go towards club development and repayment of the loan on the club house as quickly as possible.
ONLINE DRAW
The first online draw of 2023 is now live. 100 tickets only will be sold with 700 euro going to the winner. Tickets cost 10 euro. Please see the clubs Facebook and twitter pages for details of the link to play. The draw will take place as soon as the tickets are sold. Thanks for the continued support.
CAMOGIE NIGHT AT THE DOGS
The camogie club are running a dog night in Kilkenny track on Friday 12th of May. This will be the clubs main fundraiser for the year. All support greatly is appreciated.
SCRAP COLLECTION
The club is planning to do a scrap Collection fundraiser in April so if you have any scrap to get rid of we will gladly take it. Further details to follow.
SPLT THE POT
The next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Envelopes are available around the village. If you want to play on-line with club force please see the clubs Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.
EMERALDS GAA CLUB
MEGA BINGO
Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 4pm. Single books and 1free sheet €10; Double books and 2 free sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.
SPLIT THE POT
The proceeds for Split the Pot are going to the Club for the next four weeks. Please support. Envelopes available in participating businesses in town, at bingo and from any committee member.
EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO
April 11th prize fund was: €12,400. Jackpot: €10,400. Numbers drawn: 15, 16, 21, 26, bonus no 18. No winner and one match 3 winner: Sean O’Neill. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Michael Quinlan, Kathleen Broderick, Kevin Lahert, K. Guilfoyle, Tom Phelan. Promoters prize: G. Burke.
MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Counselling Services: Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Family and Teens, aged 12 plus. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug,
Substance & Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.
Defibrillator: Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.
Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.
Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any further clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be le into the Centre, please call before dropping o . Contact number for the Centre 056 883846.
SET DANCING
Due to refurbishments in Urlingford Community Hall, Set Dancing will take place in Graine Hall for the foreseeable future, every Tuesday at 8.30pm. Dancing to live music, with Danny Webster. Sets called by Paddy Martin. Come along for a great night of dancing!
URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT
This week’s winner of Split the Pot is Suzanne Purcell, Gathabawn, who will receive €701. Congrats Suzanne. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town, with proceeds this week going to Emeralds GAA Club, thanks to everyone for their support.
SUPERVISED STUDY
In Graine Hall every Saturday from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. Cost: €5 half day, €8 full day. For enquiries, please contact Siobhan 087 2601490.
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.
CHURCH NEWS
Easter o erings and Trocaire boxes are now due. Please return as soon as possible.
WEDDING
Congratulations to Michelle Kirwan, Donoughmore, daughter of Tom and Margaret on her recent wedding to Andras Schlinglo in St. Kieran’s Church. They are wished a long and happy life together.
DAFFODIL DAY
A sincere “thank you”, to all who supported the Co ee Morning in St. Kieran’s Hall for Da odil Day. The amount raised was €2,270 of which €1,120 was given to the Irish Cancer Society and €1,150 to the Carlow/Kilkenny Home Care Team. This would not have happened without the great support of the community. Special thanks to Kathleen, Margaret and Breda.
TEXAS MUSIC SHOW
Texas Music Show in The Crosspatrick on Friday April 28th featuring Dusty Moats, Brad Russell, Jesse Jennings and Jake Williams. No cover charge, come and enjoy the night!
FENIANS HC
Club membership 2023. Become a member of the hurling club on Sunday April 23rd outside the clubhouse from 1pm to 1.30pm. Child €30, Student €50, Seniors €50, Adult €200 and family €240. Membership subs. are vital to the club.
SPA UNITED AFC
Weekend results: Seanie O’Connor Memorial Shield Spa
0 Castlewarren Celtic 1, U15 boys league division 1A East End 1 Spa 1, U14 girls league division 1 Spa 5 Thomastown Utd. 0, U14 girls league division 2 Highview Athletic 1 Spa 1, Stoneyford 3 Spa 3, U12 boys league division 2A
Evergreen 0 Spa 1. Also in action at the weekend were the U8 boys who played Stoneyford and the U10 girls who took part in a South East blitz in Thomastown and played against Park Rangers and Piltown.
SPA/FENIANS DEVELOPMENT LOTTO
Winning numbers 8,10,11,24. One match three Kieran Grehan.
CHURCH COLLECTION
The Parish council would like thank parishioners who supported the priest collection and also the weekly envelope collection for the upkeep of both churches.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
Glengoole Wednesday 11am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 11am to 1pm
TROCAIRE BOXES
Please bring along your contibution to the churches over the weekend.
TUESDAY BRIDGE
Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106
GORTNAHOE BINGO
Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er including a special €500 game. We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.
SPLIT THE POT
Congratulations to Cathy Stapleton and Dave from Gortnahoe who were the winners of €175 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of April will be in support of the Gortnahoe Senior Citizens. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated
BALLYNONTY COMMUNITY HALL
Cookery and Nutrition class over 6 weeks from Tuesday 18th April - Tuesday 23rd May. 2 hours per week, 10.30am to 12.30pm. Tutor Eileen Bowden. Contact Rena O’Connor 0868490843 for information.
CLUB LOTTO
Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 13th April. Nos, 3 7 14 23. Jackpot: €8750 Not Won Draw Prizes. €50: Peggy Kennedy c/o online. €25 each Brid Dowling c/o online
€25 each Jim Delaney c/o Jim Murphy. €25 each Aine Conroy c/o online
Hurlers Co Op Conor O’Grady c/o Online. Promotors prize Paddy Maher
Thank you for your continued support.
CLUB GAMES
We welcomed backed our Senior Players starting with our Junior A team who beat Mullinavat 4-21 to 1-19 on Friday evening in Palmerstown. Our Senior Footballers had a great win Saturday evening against Railyard in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Senior Championship and our Junior F team also had a good win against Windgap Saturday night on a scoreline of 2-11 to 0-11.
KILKENNY GAA AND CAMOGIE
Well done to all our club players representing Kilkenny over the weekend. Kilkenny u20’s had a fine win Saturday a ernoon, congratulations to Manager Mark Dowling and players Timmy, Niall, Harry, James, Cillian and Brian. Our Senior Camogie players Jane Cass and Katie Byrne will
have to go again in the Intermediate League Final against Cork. The teams drew level a er what was an epic battle on the field. Our Minor Camogie Players Rachel Dowling, Rose Kelly, Angela Carroll and Tara McGrath overcame Dublin in the Minor Championship. Huge well done to all. FÉILE 2023
Hard luck to our u15 boys who unfortunately didn’t come out of their qualifiers on Saturday morning. Thanks to all the players and their Management Team. Our Boro Girls were crowned Féile County Champions on Sunday evening on the Kells Road a er beating a very strong Tullaroan side. Huge Congratulations to these super bunch of girls and their Management Team. A great day of skill, determination and hard work in all their qualifying games set the girls up to li the Cup and crown them Kilkenny Féile winners 2023.
MEDAL PRESENTATION
St. Brigid’s Camogie Club held their medal presentation night and pre-season bash on Easter Sunday night in The Set Theatre, Langtons. Kilkenny. A great night was had by all. Thanks to Adrian Ronan (Ronnie) who was given the honours of MC on the night and did a fantastic job. Thanks to John Kenny and John Caldbeck also for introducing their teams on the night and to Ann Marie Hoyne and Seamus Kelly who also played a huge role in the club management last year. Big thanks to Kilkenny camogie chairwoman Theresa Aylward who gave up her evening to present the medals to our victorious U22 B champions 2022, Junior C champions 2022 and Senior All County League champions 2019. Thanks also goes to our club sponsors Morgan and Anne Ging (Ballykee e Distillery) who gave four fantastic door prizes on the night. Hopefully we can look forward to more nights like this in the future.
St Brigid’s U15 girls participated in Féile na nGael 2023 in sunny Piltown on Sunday 16th April. Their day commenced with their first game against The Rower Inistioge. The game ended in a draw. St Brigid’s 0-8:Rower Inistioge 1-05. Scorers: T. Cody 0-7, C. Teehan 0-1. Next up were Piltown on their home turf. A tough battle but St Brigid’s came out on top with a score line of St Brigid’s 2-6 to Piltown 0-3. Scorers: T Cody 1-4, C Teehan 0-2, K Comerford 1-0.
Next up were Tullaroan. St Brigid’s played to the best of their ability and were on top at half time. Tullaroan proved too strong in the second half and got over the line. St Brigid’s 0-6 Tullaroan 2-4. Scorers, T Cody 0-4, C Teehan 0-1, K Conroy 0-1.
The last game of the day was against Carrickshock. Lots of tired legs but great spirit by all the girls. Final score was St Brigid’s 1-05 to Carrickshock 3-01. Scorers: C Teehan 1-2, K Conroy 0-1, A Butler 0-1 and K Comerford 0-1. Well done to all the girls on a great day and thanks to the management for their hard work throughout the year. Lots more good days to come with this bunch. St Brigid’s Abu Panel : Isabella Coen, Charlotte La’Broy, Roisin Foley, Aisling Butler, Mille Cahill, Ruth Purcell, Ruby Millea, Chloe Teehan, Kate Purcell, Regan La’Broy, Tara Cody, Ella Cody, Sophia Malone, Kitty Conroy, Katie Comerford, Ellen Cormack and Sinéad Cormack.
TABLE QUIZ
A fantastic night was had at our Annual Mary McGrath table quiz in The Pound, Ballycallan. Winners of the Quiz on the night were Annette Wall, Michelle O’Regan, Philomena and David Brennan. Each participant received a beautiful Tirlán fresh food hamper. Well done folks and enjoy all the goodies. Thanks to the McGrath family as always for the use of their premises and quizmaster on
the night Ellen Murphy.
PARISH CEMETERIES
An interesting question arose recently: ‘How many cemeteries are there in the parish?’ The parish website mentions there are five, but that extract was taken from James Holohan’s book, written in 1875, before Ballykeeffe cemetery existed. There are in fact six. If however the question is, How many Catholic cemeteries are there in the parish?,’ then the answer is four. St. Aidan’s, Kilmanagh is a Church of Ireland cemetery, where some Catholics are buried, and Ballykeeffe is multi-denominational. Killaloe, Kyle, St. Brigid’s and St. Michael’s are all built around Catholic Churches. Carrigan argues that a Catholic church existed at one time on the grounds of St. Aidan’s, Kilmanagh, but the present graves are not older than the existence of the Protestant Church. One could also argue that a church and cemetery existed at Kilbraghan, but nothing of this exists today, only in history. Amendments have been made to the parish website to address this question.
ALONE
Would you be willing to provide companionship to an older person locally? ALONE are seeking volunteers in your area, full training and support provided. If interested please contact Emma on 086 083 4393 or via email to emma.heslin@alone.ie. If you are over 60 years and would like to know more about the services ALONE can offer you,
please call 0818 222 024.
LOTTO RESULTS
Results for 3rd April. Numbers drawn were 12; 15; 20; 25. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Kay Muldowney, Graigue, Linda Hayes and Nicky Teehan.
Sellers’ prizes went to Sean O’Dwyer and Gearoid Cleere. Results for 10th April. Numbers drawn were 5; 7; 16; 20. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Christy Wallace, Linda Hayes and Margie Walsh. Sellers’ prizes went to Mark Hogan and Mark O’Brien.
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.
HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD
MASS TIMES
Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday 22nd. at 8.00p.m; Sunday 23rd. at 10.00a.m.
Stoneyford: Wednesday at 7.00p.m. Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.;
PRAY FOR
Wazzie Kenneally, Barnadown. Peter Donovan, Thomastown..Months Mind Mass: Catherine Barron, Catstown: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 23rd. April at 10.00am. Anniversary Mass next weekend: Neddie and Kitty Fitzpatrick, Lismatigue. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 22nd. April at 8.00p.m.
ROTA
Week-end: 22nd and 23rd April 2023 . (Third Sunday of Easter). Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Lennon. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan, Sunday 10.00a.m. Marie Ryan. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cahill; Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Crowley.
EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS
New Eucharistic Ministers needed in both Hugginstown and Stoneyford Churches for weekend Masses. Preparation Training can be done on-line in your own home with just a meeting in the local church for practical help. Please let me know if you can help. It is also recommended that Present Eucharistic Ministers be involved in this training.
COMPUTER COURSE
Course during April in Gairdín an Ghorta, Newmarket. Laptops and Smartphones!
If interested please contact Willie Barron 086 839 4349 or Stephen Cassin 085 726 3393.
LOTTO
Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 10th. April 2023. Numbers: 10; 30; 06; 23. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners, Mary Raggett, Aghaviller. Gerry Coady, c/o James Irish. Josie Frisby, Carricketna. Ger Fennelly, Ballyhale. Richard Sheehan, Stonecarthy; 3 x €15.00 (Sellers):James Irish. Pauline Doyle, Jimmy Sheehan
SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS
Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Kathleen Sherry Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Teresa Broderick and Carmel O’Toole.
DATES TO REMEMBER 2023
First Holy Communion. For Stoneyford School on Sunday 14th. May at 11.00a.m. in Stoneyford Church. For Monroe/ Newmarket Schools on Sunday 21st. May at 11.00a.m. in Hugginstown Church.
Cemetery Masses: Calvary Cemetery on Friday 2nd. June at 8.00p.m. Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 7th. July at 8.00p.m. Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 1st. July at 8.00p.m.
First night of the Tuborg Premier League, in conjunction with Gerry Comeford Well Drilling and Adrian O’ Connor Red Oak Window Cleaning. What a night of darts we had in Andy’s Bar in Ballyhale last week, with 31 players registered on the night, the league got off to a great start. Mick Kelly, Tom Keogh and Robbie Van Geisko were the players who came off board 1. Michael Meaney and Sam Dunphy came off board 2. Mick O Dwyer, Ritchie O Hanlon and Connor Fennelly came off board 3. Trevor Vallely and Kieran Furlong came off board 4, board 5 Chris Connery and Michael O Sullivan emerged from it. On board 6 Eamon Lambden and Mickey O’ Keeffe came out of it. On to the last board, board 7 Liam Walsh and Johnny Meaney came off the board. So on to the last 16 , Mick Kelly bt Johnny Meaney , Michael Meaney bt Mickey O Keeffe, Michael O Sullivan bt Mick O Dwyer, Trevor Vallely bt Robbie Van Geisko , Eamon Lambden bt Kieran Furlong, Chris Connery bt Connor Fennelly, Liam Walsh bt Sam Dunphy, and Tom Keogh bt Ritchie O Hanlon.
The Q / Final’s got underway with Mick Kelly V Michael Meaney, although Mick Kelly played really good darts he just wasn’t up to Michael’s standard. The next game was between Michael ( Sully ) O Sullivan and Trevor Vallely, Sully played brilliant darts in a game that could have gone
either way but Trevor pipped him in the end. The next game was between Chris Connery and Eamon Lambden, Chris Connery threw unbelievable darts not giving Eamon a chance. The last game in the Q / Final was between Liam Walsh and Tom Keogh, Tom rolled back the year’s with a brilliant game of darts against Liam, who also played great stuff.
The first S / Final was between Michael Meaney and Trevor Vallely, Trevor played unreal in the legs that he won with Michael waiting on a double in all of them. A very good win for Trevor. The second S / Final saw Tom Keogh and Chris Connery face off, no matter what Tom hit Chris with Chris came back with more, Tom just got Chris on one of his days. Chris missed nothing.
Well we are down to the Final, Trevor Vallely V Chris Connery, Chris could not hit the treble 20 for love or money and it showed on the score board, Trevor Vallely won the game playing great darts. Anyone who wants to enter the tournament can do so by texting me their mobile number and I will add them to the WhatsApp group.
The great Callan man Mick Kenny died 20 years ago this year and at his removal the colour mix draped over his co in bore testimony to a man whose loyalties were frequently divided. Half a century before Denis Byrne Ballyline swapped Kilkenny for Tipperary, Kenny had made the same exchange. With much less fuss. Like Denis Byrne, Mick Kenny captained a losing Kilkenny team in an All-Ireland hurling final. Beaten by Tipperary in 1950, many argued a erwards that Kenny should have been given the frees that Jimmy Langton missed. They lost that final, gut-wrenchingly, by a point and that losing streak was to extend by 10 years until 1957, when ironically Callan man Mick Kenny captained that side which was to mark a new era in Kilkenny hurling. His colourful career began with Graigue who won the Kilkenny senior title in 1949 with Kenny inspirational at centre-forward. Those were the days when the parish rule was not enforced, with that enforcement only coming in to been in the mid 1950’s. Later Graigue amalgamated with Ballycallan to become known as Graigue-Ballycallan, and the club that Byrne hurled for until his move to Mullinahone, they failed to win another championship until 1998. Kenny was born in Callan, however, and joined the army during the Emergency (World War two). While stationed in Cork and playing in the all-army championships he was spotted by Ted Fennelly of Graigue Cross, who worked for a locally-based oil company. Unrestricted then by the Parish Rule, Fennelly persuaded Kenny to join Graigue. As mentioned earlier the parish rule had not been enforced by the County Board at that time so players could opt to play with any club they wished too. Kenny’s home town team John Lockes is a case in point when the Brophy brothers Mick and Liam from Danesfort won a junior title with John Lockes in 1952. With Kenny on board and bolstered by a thriving underage structure, Graigue took the title in 1949 to great acclaim, fending o the challenge of famed Tullaroan. Nicholas Teehan, now diseased, who hurled for Graigue in the 1950s, in an interview he remembered the celebrations well. “It really broke Tullaroan hearts,” says Teehan. “Lory (Meagher) came to the reception a erwards and said, ‘Well, I’ll have to admit - it was a bombshell.’ One of our local lads, who wouldn’t know one end of the hurl from the other, shouted back: ‘By God, you can say that again.’ To Lory Meagher”. In fact Graigue/Ballycallan have on occasions in recent history turned over their near neighbours, most notably the 2018 County Intermediate final when they upended hot favourites Tullaroan to win an epic and memorable final. In 2014 Graigue/Ballycallan defeated Tullaroan in a relegation semi final. With Tullaroan leading by two points in additional time, a speculative ball from Graigue into the parallelogram lead to a flick to the net by James Ryall. Tullaroan were unable to hold their status in Senior Grade as they were defeated by the great survivors Fenians of Johnstown in the relegation final.
The win meant Graigue could nominate the next Kilkenny captain. They put forward John Keane who went on to play every game for the county in 1950, but was dropped for the All-Ireland final. Kenny was the only available replacement and he, like Byrne 49 years later, skippered a Kilkenny senior team in defeat.
But while Byrne had the comfort of a cathartic title win 12 months a erwards, Kenny’s career experienced further turmoil before he returned to Kilkenny to win an All-Ireland in 1957.
By then Mick Kenny was stationed in Clonmel and he began playing for the 13th Battalion with whom he won a Tipperary county junior title in 1952. Strained relations between Kenny and members of Kilkenny County board precipitated his move.
In 1953, Tipp juniors won the All-Ireland and he was on the team with Theo English who was among the attendance at his funeral in Callan in 2003. A year later they played together on the team that won the league final against Kilkenny.
“He hurled the game of his life,” said Nicholas Teehan. “They put everyone they could on him and they couldn’t stop him. He won the last ball and they say he pucked it up in the air with delight, he really sewed it into them.”
But that joy was short-lived, too. For the Munster final that year against Cork the Tipperary selectors dropped Kenny, introducing a young Tony Wall at le corner back and shi ing ‘Rattler’ Byrne to right half back where
in Waterford City and getting 5/2 against John Lockes. In the game, John Lockes toyed with Slieverue. Kenny gave a masterful display at centre back and his long frees found the target with unerring accuracy. Callan took their first and only senior title by a country mile and the man that made the di erence was Mick Kenny. In 1958 Mick was the non-playing captain as Kilkenny toiled against Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final defeat.
Marked by Martin Óg Morrissey, Kenny was in the twilight of his career, but underlined his versatility with a superlative display. Again, his fortunes turned. Captain of Kilkenny in 1958, he found himself abruptly dropped for the AllIreland semi-final against Tipperary.
Jimmy Doyle matched Kilkenny’s full score of 1-08 in the 1958 semi-final as his team won by five points. Some still argue Kenny should have been introduced but he faded from view a er that. “He had great nerve, the higher the stakes the more he liked it,” recalls Teehan. “He was also a smashing ballroom dancer, Mick was one of these fellas that could do anything.”
Kenny also represented Leinster at right corner forward in the 1951 Railway Cup win over Munster, but he remains a figure shrouded in some mystery given that it was never certain where his natural a iliations lay. He was, perhaps, best described as a freelance agent, ahead of his time, more like a gun for hire.
The late Jack Lynch one of John Lockes great hurlers and servants, was a contemporary and schoolfriend of Kenny’s in Callan. “ Jack said in an interview, “The John Lockes had won a junior championship in 1952, we then played senior, but we weren’t getting anywhere. We had Jack Gardiner, a great Tipp man, in charge of the club. He didn’t like a Kilkenny hurler no matter who he was, legend tells that when Jacks son the late Michael Gardiner won the Minor All-Ireland in 1950 with Kilkenny against Tipperary, Jack wouldn’t shout for Kilkenny even though his son was playing on the team, but no doubt he was still proud of Michaels achievement. Even though he did really get on with Mick Kenny and that may have been down to the fact he was based in Clonmel in the Army and had played for Tipperary.
Jack said, “Mick wasn’t going to be picked for the Munster final in 1954 a er playing in the league final. There were objections. He’d marked Mick Kelly, the DJ Carey or TJ Reid of the time, in the league final. He played half back, you could play him anywhere.”
Lynch maintains Kilkenny should have placed Kenny on the rampant Tony Wall in the 1958 All-Ireland semi-final because they’d had some fierce battles in the army championships.
Nicholas Purcell, now passed and chairman of the Kilkenny county board from 1959 for 10 years, won a championship with Kenny for Graigue in 1949.
“The guy never got the recognition he deserved,” said Purcell. “I think he was a great hurler, having played with him and against him.”
Kenny’s co in dress summed up the diversity of his career: black and amber mixing with the blue and gold of Tipp, the Sa ron and Blue John Locke’s in Callan. Nicholas Teehan also rooted out an old Graigue shirt from 1949 for one of Kenny’s family who runs a bar in New York.
the versatile Kenny had been hurling. They dropped him the day of the championship,” recalled English. “They made out later that he’d have been the right man for Ring; there was no point putting a man on Ring that would try to rough him up. He (Kenny) was a great hurler. And he followed the games up to his death.
“We picked Matt Hassett a erwards on Ring and he was the same type of player; he was able to hold Ring. He went out in front and played the ball. Took a chance.” John O’Grady, the former Tipperary goalkeeper, remembers him vividly: “He was dark-haired, slim build, very much a ball player.”
Realising his career had hit a wall, in 1956, his native club John Lockes moved in and took him home to fuel their own ambitions.
Their only senior county title, in 1957, came with Kenny playing a starring role as trainer and captain. A great Callan man Gar Freaney (since deceased) knew Mick Kenny better than most and told the story of Kennys return to the John Lockes and Kilkenny. “Under Mick Kenny’s leadership, John Lockes toyed with most opposition in 1956 and in the county final they could be considered unlucky to have lost to one of the best Bennettsbridge teams ever. The duel that day between Mick Kenny and the late great Dan Kennedy will never be forgotten by those who were privileged to enjoy it. In 1957 the Kilkenny selectors could no longer ignore Mick Kenny and he was one of the 16 that marched around Croke Park in that year’ All-Ireland final against Waterford. The odd man was the actor John Gregson as
they were making the film “Rooney” at the time and it included some hurling scenes. Once again Mick Kenny was the star. He scored 2-5 from play of Kilkenny’s total of 4-10, as they went on to take the title by a point and end a ten year barren spell without the McCarthy Cup. On the next night, the first Monday in September 1957 the largest crowd ever, thronged the streets of Callan as Mick returned in triumph. At this time in 1957 Callan had once again reached the County final. Having defeated Graigue in the semifinal, Slieverue were the opposition and their lineout included three of the recent All-Ireland winning team- Paddy Buggy, Mick Walsh and Dick Rockett, Slieverue were hot favourites, especially in South Kilkenny and Waterford, and I will remember walking in to a bookmakers
“There were holes in it so we had it stitched up,” said Nicholas Teehan, explaining “My mother had bought a whole set of miraculous medals in the Friary in Kilkenny and sewed them into each jersey collar. They used to say it was Mrs Teehan in Shipton that won the championship with the miraculous medals.”. Gar Freaney said “He then retired from hurling and he and his wife and children moved from Green Lane, Callan, to live in Kilkenny where, having now retired from the Army, he took up a position with TV rentals”. In later years he trained and guided St Brigid’s College camogie team to County Championship success. Whatever the mystery that surrounded Mick Kenny, he never forgot his roots and when the call came from the John Lockes, he came back and brought them to the only senior county title the club ever won and since that great time have never come near winning a senior title ever again. But hope springs eternal as there is a growing and impressive bunch of Under 15’s who could possibly make the senior dream happen in time to come.
One of the big days in the Rugby Calendar takes place this coming Sunday in Athy at 3pm as Kilkenny and Tullow clash in e Provincial Towns Cup Final.
Both Teams had somewhat contrasting Semi-Finals with Kilkenny mostly in control against Cill Dara in Portlaoise, while Tullow had to endure a Final Quarter ghtback from their near neighbours County Carlow before just hanging on for a two point win at the nal whistle(27-25).
Kilkenny won their Semi-Final 20-8 against Cill Dara having led 12-3 at half-time, while as mentioned Tullow held on to win 27-25 against Carlow.
David O'Connor, Podge Mahon and Liam Caddy were Tryscorers in Kilkenny's Semi-Final win and captained by Jake McDonald, Kilkenny will be hoping to record consecutive Towns Cup Triumphs for the 1st time since 2001 and 2002.
Victory on Sunday would mean Kilkenny winning e Towns Cup for e 7th time having won the cup on 6 previous occassions.
eir est Towns Cup triumph was back in 1955 where they won 9-3 against North Kildare following a replay after the original xture ended
3-3.
Another Towns Cup win against North Kildare came four years later in 1959 when Kilkenny won 3-0.
Kilkenny had to wait 27 years until 1986 before their next Towns Cup win when Captained by Mick McGrath, they won 10-0 against e Curragh in Drogheda with Willie Mahony and Nicky Mcgrath the tryscorers, while former Ireland rugby international and Kilkenny senior All-Ireland medal winner Ned Byrne was part of the Kilkenny team.
Willie Mahony is a nephew of fellow Kilkenny native, the late great Willie Duggan and he is Kilkenny's most successful Towns Cup player as he is the only player to have won three Towns Cup medals.
As well as featuring in 1986, Willie was also part of Kilkenny's subsequent winning Teams in 2001 and 2002.
Captained by Simon Manuel, A late Dave McMahon Penalty saw Kilkenny snatch victory 9-8 against Portlaoise in 2001 in Carlow, before e Towns Cup was retained 12 months later in 2002 with a comprehensive 33-13 win against County Carlow.
2002 was a memorable year for e Kilkenny Firsts Team as along with
retaining e Towns Cup, they won both e South East and Leinster Leagues while just narrowly missing out on a promotion to e AIL League.
Kilkenny su ered e heartbreak of consecutive narrow Cup Final defeats in 2014 and 2015 as they lost 6-3 to Ashbourne in 2014, before losing 9-8 to Enniscorthy a year later in 2015.
Last years 32-6 Cup Final win against Ashbourne ended a 20 year gap since they previously won e Towns Cup back in 2002.
If Kilkenny win again on Sunday they will have repeated the feat of back to back Towns Cup Final triumphs from 2001-2002, and in 2002 they defeated fellow Carlow opposition in County Carlow so history would be repeating itself should they pull it o against Tullow.
Tullow will be a tough nut to crack on Sunday having gained promotion to Division 1A of e Leinster League, with Kilkenny heading in the opposite direction having su ered relegation to Division 1B.
However, Tullow had to withstand a rally from their Carlow opponents to book their place in Sunday's Final having led by 14 points in their SemiFinal clash(27-13).
A brace of tries from both Scott Caldbeck and Jordan Leybounne appeared to have put Tullow well on their way to victory, but two tries from County Carlow left the Tullow Men nervously looking over their shoulders.
County Carlow had a glorious opportunity from a conversion to force extratime, but to Tullow's relief it went wide of goal and they held on for a narrow victory.
Tullow easily defeated Kilkenny's Semi-Final opponents Cill Dara comprehensively to gain Promotion to Division 1A, so that's just an indication of the task Kilkenny are facing.
Former Ireland and Leinster Rugby great Sean O'Brien has been more than giving a helping hand to his native Tullow since his retirement,
and his presence around e Club has unquestionably helped them onto greater e orts.
Tullow's rst nal appearance was in 2008 when they lost to Navan, before they lost again in 2012 to Enniscorthy.
However, they nally broke their Towns Cup hodoo in 2017 when winning 20-3 against Skerries before losing the 2018 nal to Enniscorthy. It promises to be a fascinating contest on Sunday, and having su ered the disappointment of Relegation, e Towns Cup is Kilkenny's saving grace and a 7th Cup Final success in the Clubs history would help nish the season on a high.
program. ey go to the gym and do what feels natural. Sure, that’s better than nothing. But good training results come from the structure and planning ahead of time.
If you’ve been training for years, you probably feel like you understand tness well: what to do and what not to.
But what if we were to tell you that you might still be making some crucial mistakes that slow down your progress?
Sometimes, we develop habits early on and never look back to see if they are good. In some cases, habits stick with us for a long time and lead us down unproductive paths.
To that end, we’ve put together a list of mistakes people make in the gym, even after years of training consistently.
1. Not having a written plan
Improvising is by no means a bad thing. For instance, if you go on holiday for two weeks and want to keep training, you’ll probably have to change up your training. You might choose to do other gym exercises, bodyweight training, or a di erent training style. In such a scenario, improvising would be bene cial because it would allow you to stay active.
Knowing how to improvise is a bene cial skill to have. e problem is, far too many people improvise all the time and never get into a structured training
To avoid this mistake, set a training plan and stick to it. It doesn’t have to be complicated or incredibly demanding, and it can be as little as three workouts with four movements in each session. But sticking with it teaches you structure and how to adhere to a speci c plan.
2. Not tracking your training and progress
Walk into most gyms today, and you’ll be sure to nd plenty of driven and hard-working individuals. One person will be squatting, another will be doing curls, and someone else will be setting a personal best on the bench press. at’s all fantastic.
Many people train hard and hit the gym consistently but make the colossal mistake of never documenting their workouts and progress or lack thereof.
Not tracking your training journey is bad because you don’t know how well or poorly things are going. Sure, you’re consistent, and you’re lifting weights. But how are things going? Are you getting stronger, more resilient, or better in any way? Or are you stuck in a rut with no results to show for your hard work?
To x this, download a phone app where you can track your workouts. A
simple note-taking app can work, or you can download a tness app. e point is, have somewhere to write your activities as they happen. en, review your performance every few weeks to see how things are going.
You can also grab a simple journal and write your workouts there if you’re more old school.
3. Doing the same thing over and over
As we start training, we’re motivated and excited by the newness of it all. We get to learn all of these exercises, get stronger, and see visual improvements from week to week. But after months and years, we lose that enthusiasm, our drive to improve goes down, and we get comfortable. Being comfortable with your training means you’re not pushing enough, which means you’re also not improving or moving closer to your goals. Many trainees hit the gym consistently for years but rarely see much improvement precisely because they’ve fallen into a comfort zone and have stopped pushing to keep improving. But here is the thing: Your body needs a reason to keep getting stronger, faster, and more resilient. If your body can handle the stress you’re causing through training, it won’t have a reason to improve further.
To avoid making this mistake, log your workouts, review your performance, and constantly strive
to improve in some way. If you lift weights, try to lift heavier, do more reps, take shorter breaks between sets, or do more challenging movements. If you do aerobic exercise, cover greater distances, put more time into it, train at an incline, go faster, or nd other ways to get uncomfortable.
4. Not warming up well
Imagine this scenario:
You walk into the gym, do a couple of arm swings, load up the barbell, and lie down to bench press. It sounds ridiculous, right? Well, the scenario is much more common than you might imagine.
Too many people never realise the importance of warming up well and put themselves at an increased chance of injury and worse not warming up stops people from performing at their best.
First, a good warm-up raises core body temperature, warms the synovial uid that lubricates your joints, and improves muscle elasticity. Second, warming up raises the temperature of crucial enzymes responsible for energy production, which is essential for optimal training performance. ird, warming up prepares your mind and puts you in a mood for training and exerting yourself. If you do it long enough, it can become a ritual, which you subconsciously associate with hard work.
Plus, warming up is good for practic-
ing proper technique, establishing a better mind-muscle connection, and ensuring everything is okay with your body. For example, if you lie down to do warm-up sets on the bench press and feel your right shoulder hurting a bit, you can switch gears and do another exercise that day. In contrast, nding that your shoulder aches when lifting submaximal loads puts you at a much higher risk of an injury.
To prevent this mistake, set aside at least ten minutes to warm-up well before each workout. You can go about it in many ways, but some combination of light cardio, dynamic stretching, and warm-up sets will work great.
Conclusion
Fitness is a life-long journey. ere is always something to learn, improve, or get rid of to make the entire process more e ective.
We often gain con dence through experience, which is good, but it can also be harmful. We begin to think that we know it all and often overlook our process, which means we ignore the mistakes we make.
If you’re interested in being a life-long learner and helping others on their journey, consider a career in personal training. Our Personal Trainer courses o er lots of valuable information that will make you a better athlete and coach, capable of spotting mistakes and helping others improve their processes.
BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE
Kilkenny vs Westmeath
UPMC Nowlan Park, Saturday 6pm
Kilkenny begin the defence of their provincial crown at home to Westmeath tomorrow evening as the panel looks to put the recent league nal defeat to Limerick to bed. On paper, it’s a game that the Cats should win comfortably, but you can guarantee that manager Derek Lyng will not allow for any complacency to have crept into his charges over the past 7 days. e Emerald’s club man will be determined to secure a 75th Bob O’Keefe cup for his county and in doing so, make it four-in-a-row.
Since losing the Allianz league decider to the Treaty, the championship preparation will have ramped up, and there will be many players pushing for inclusion in Lyng’s rst Leinster championship game. e last game saw Adrian Mullen return to the black and amber jersey and those will have been vital minutes to get into the legs of the Shamrocks Ballyhale man. e former county captain will be a vital cog if the Kilkenny machine is to match last season’s endeavors and reach the All-Ireland nal. Adrian hit some wonderful scores in the Limerick defeat and has been in inspirational form over the last 12 months.
Another Shamrocks player had a watching brief in the league nal, the legendary TJ Reid. e game tomorrow could be the perfect runout for TJ to shake o any rust in the legs and given that the curtain raiser to the Westmeath match sees our U20’s in action against Dublin in round 3 of the Oneills.com championship, Billy Drennan may be involved with Mark Dowling’s panel.
Drennan, who nished his rst Allianz National Hurling League campaign as the Division 1’s top scorer, will be in demand as his tally of 2-70 has announced his arrival on the senior stage. In the U20’s recent high scoring win over Galway, the Galmoy man hit an impressive 2-12 as his team notched 5-20 in the round two win. Another couple of players who saw minutes during the league, Dicksboro’s Timmy Cli ord and Tullaroan’s Gearoid Dunne have also been in U20’s action, and again both will be hoping for more time with the seniors as the season progresses.
In defence, it will be interesting to see if e Sash’s Tommy Walsh will be deployed at fullback, or if a return to the corner
may be on the cards. I for one rmly believe that O’Loughlin’s Huw Lawlor is one of the country’s nest No.3’s and would certainly like to see him on the edge of the square as summer approaches. Should T. Walsh return to a corner berth, P. Walsh may nd himself operating at half-back, something that wouldn’t detract from the latter’s ability to contribute positively for this Cats team. It was good to see Richie Reid back in swashbuckling action in the defeat to Limerick, and he will almost certainly be a permanent xture at 5,6 or 7. Like Padraig Walsh, Richie can take a long-range score, a quality which comes in handy when the opposition sit back and ood the scoring zone
In mid eld, Conor Fogarty has put in some consistent quality displays recently and on current form, should
be con dent of retaining one of the jerseys in the engine room. His partner could be any one of several players, Adrian or Paddy Mullen, Glenmore’s Alan Murphy, O’Loughlin’s Paddy Deegan or possibly Padraig Walsh. As usual, winning the middle third battle will be crucial in providing the platform for the ‘headline grabbers’ in the attacking unit to do their thing.
Captain Eoin Cody will hope to lead the line and get a few scores, while Billy Ryan and Mossy Keoghan will know that there are players itching to play in the Kilkenny attacking unit. As mentioned earlier, Saturday could see minutes for TJ Reid. Manager Lyng might use this opening round game to allow Reid to settle back into county action,
knowing that having TJ sharp for later in the provincial campaign and the All-Ireland series will be bene cial to the Cats team. Perhaps one of the ‘unsung heroes’ of Kilkenny 2023 has been John Donnelly. e big omastown man has been getting through a mountain of work all over the pitch, and while it may not grab the headlines, Donnelly’s sel ess work is vital in helping Derek Lyng’s team function.
Tomorrow’s opponents Westmeath
will arrive at UPMC Nowlan Park having secured their Division 1 status, courtesy of a relegation play-o victory over Willie Maher’s Laois at FBD Semple Stadium last month. at win consigned Laois to division two and the Joe McDonagh Cup. Despite surviving, it was a disappointing league campaign for Joe Fortune’s maroon men, but they managed to get over the line in the xture that mattered most.
Goals were key in securing e Lake County’s top ight status, and they hit three majors in the win over Laois. Niall O’Brien hit one against e O’Moore County and will be a key gure during his sides provincial campaign. e Castletown Geoghegan man has been a regular xture in the Westmeath side for a number of years now and is in the top 5 all-time top scorers for his county this millennium. O’Brien is in good company in this list. e veteran Derek McNicholas, freetaker Killian Doyle and his Raharney clubmates Robbie Greville, Ciaran Doyle and Joey Boyle all feature and will be prominent if Wexford native Fortune is to revive his team’s fortunes for the remainder of their hurling season.
ere had been some discontent amongst a section of the Westmeath support, mostly online, and manager Fortune addressed this recently in an interview with e Westmeath Independent:
“I’ve read stu where people gave out about Derek McNicholas coming back in. Derek took time o after the birth of his son,” he explained
“I brought in young Peter Clarke for his rst game at that level. We don’t have a conveyor belt like other counties. e likes of Limerick put a massive amount of money into underage. You can bring the best strength and conditioning guy in Ireland in when a guy is 22, but your time has gone.
“I read last week that we didn’t look as t as last year, but would you look t when facing Limerick or Galway whose aim is to win the All-Ireland? It hurts me to see what some people write about this solid group of men that we have.”
Veteran McNicholas came o the bench to great e ect in the play-o win over Laois. e Lough Lene Gaels sharpshooter scored a brace of points before the long whistle to help his side get the important win. ere’s no doubt that the man who made his senior debut in 2004 can still produce cameos like he did recently to bene t his beloved Westmeath.
Killian Doyle’s accuracy from the placed ball will be vital in keeping the scoreboard ticking over for the Lake County and the Raharney man will look to punish any indiscretions by the Kilkenny players. e other Doyle, Ciaran hit 0-4 last time out, while his clubmates Joey Boyle and sub Eoin Keyes weighed in with 2-3 between them. Keyes is a good prospect and will be keen to establish himself during this provincial campaign.
Westmeath will roll into town tomorrow, knowing that not many give them any chance of getting anything from the opening round game against their more illustrious opponents, and whatever XV Derek Lyng starts with will be acutely aware of the potential banana skin that the men in maroon pose.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
Planning permission sought for provision of additional car parking spaces and for alterations to existing parking layout, provision of accessible footpaths and associated site works and ancillary related works at St Canice’s Hospital, Dublin Road, Kilkenny. The premises is included in the Record of Protected Structures, Ref. B216. Applicant: Health Service Executive
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.
Architects: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Stewart O’ Donovan intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing dwelling house and all associated site development works at Geraldine, Mallardstown Upper, Callan, Co. Kilkenny, R95 PHH3.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Eithna Coogan intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain sun room extension to the side of existing dwelling house, rooflights to the side and rear, elevational changes and all associated site development works at Jenkinstown Park, Jenkinstown, Co. Kilkenny, R95 V967. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL
I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Michael Walker for full planning permission to construct an agricultural storage shed, soakpits and all other associated site works at Westcourt North, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
Further Information/Revised Plans: Sharon Murray and Liam Walsh have submitted significant further information to planning application 22/337 which consisted of full planning permission to demolish existing dwelling and outbuildings and construct a replacement 2 storey dwelling with increased set back from the public road, improvement works to existing entrance, wastewater treatment system, soakpits and all other associated site works at Garranmachenry, Killamery, Co. Kilkenny. The significant further information includes for the relocation of the proposed entrance, dwelling & wastewater system and other additional further information.
Significant Further Information/Revised Plans has/have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is/are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.
In loving memory of David, late of 37 Beechlawns, Kilkenny, whose anniversary occurs 22nd April.
Another year has passed No one knows how much we miss you
No one knows the bitter pain
We have suffered since we lost you
Life has not been the same
In our hearts your memory lives on Sweetly, tender fond and true
There is not a day dear David
That we do not think of you.
Sadly missed by your loving family.
Anniversary Mass on Saturday, 22nd April at 6pm in the Church of the Assumption, Thomastown, Co.Kilkenny.
In loving memory of my dear friend Kathleen, late of Ballybough Street who died on April 25th 2014.
RIP
We never knew that evening What the angels had in store They took from earth to heaven
The friend that we adored
God called your name so softly That only you could hear
And no one heard the footsteps
Of angels drawing near
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you did not go alone
For part of us went with you
The night God called you home
Sadly missed and remembered always by your friend Marian.
Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.
This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).
Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.
Must promise publication of prayer.M.M.
Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.
This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).
Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.
Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted.
Never been known to fail.
Must promise publication of prayer.M.B.
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.M.
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.A.ON.
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.S.M.
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.K.
