Kilkenny Observer 21 August 2026

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Friday 21st August 2026

M9 Horror Crash What needs to be done, by mum who lost girl  Annette Keating - Page 3

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

EVERY FRIDAY

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM SALES E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie T: 087 341 3909 or 087 382 0109 EDITOR E: editor@kilkennyobserver.ie SPORTS E: sportseditor@kilkennyobserver.ie FEATURES E: featureseditor@kilkennyobserver.ie

I saw the news about the M9 crash where three women and a seven-year-old child were critically injured and five teenage boys killed.

Watching the tragedy unfold, knowing what’s coming for those families, is its own pain that I wish that no one should have to face. There is no distance from this, for any parent who has gone through the most painful and life-altering experience.

I cannot look away easily as some might otherwise be able to, having lost our beautiful daughter Natasha in a road traffic accident, through no fault of her own. I find myself always looking for answers when this happens – again and again.

Natasha [from Thomastown] was just 21 when she died on the R700 near Barronsland, Bennettsbridge on Monday, August 31, 2009 at 15.26. The road surface was badly worn and the car she was driving hit a wall. She died within 90 minutes of the fatality.

My heart aches when I look at this photo of Natasha. I can physically feel the soreness in my chest, 17 years on ...

Recent figures on roads policing staffing in Ireland do not publish a current single “per capita statistics”. However, this is what is available from my research.

As of July 2023, a total of 664 Gardai are assigned to roads policing nationwide, down 17% from 804 in 2013 (then called the Traffic Corps).

Dublin had the highest allocation, with 152 officers across seven areas. The stated ambition years ago was to reach 1,031 roads policing officers by 2021. A target never met – numbers instead have fallen.

Per capita, a guesstimate using the 664 figures against the Irish population of 5.4 million as of 2026 works out to one roads policing guard for 8,100 people nationally. The overall Garda budget for 2026 is €2.59 billion. Cost for basic training for one Garda is €26,595.

Advanced pursuit-level training (level 3/CBD2) has a severely limited pipeline, with 436 Gardai completing level 3 training in the past 10 years.

There is a backlog as the instructors are not in place. I could not find any costs to bring a Garda to level 3 training. Nobody seems to have asked for this information in the Oireachtas.

That’s the first gap that

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The Kilkenny

Observer Heartache and grief of losing my child

10,000 COPIES PRINTED AND DISTRIBUTED ACROSS CITY AND COUNTY EVERY WEEK

What must be done in law to save another parent from going through a life-altering experience, asks Annette Keating

Seventeen years on: near Barronsland, Bennettsbridge where Natasha Keating died on Monday, August 31, 2009

needs to be addressed. I looked at our overseas counterparts and there is no clear cost per officer. The training takes 15 weeks, plus officer salary, instructor time, vehicle wear and track facility costs put this training in the tens of thousands of euro. The UK has the same problems as Ireland. A joint initiative could be a way forward, sharing instructors and facilities.

Per-collision cost (Department of Transport figures, as of 2018): • A fatal collision costs €1,775,000 per fatality. This covers the value of a lost life plus healthcare, emergency response, Garda/legal, insurance administration and lost economic output.

• A severe injury collision costs €398,020 and a minor injury collision €37,352.

• With five deaths and a family critically injured, the M9 crash alone likely represents several million-euro cost to

the State and economy, and that’s before the unquantifiable grief.

Fixing this with the overlapping problems of Garda capacity, pursuit training and legal cover for officers, now promised but not yet delivered, will be slow. With the

training backlog it will be a very slow process unless we look outside the State and train with our European and UK counterparts.

The Garda Commissioner has directly named social media as the driver of this reckless behaviour and there’s no

accountability mechanism forcing social media platforms to act quickly.

Find the at-risk children through the Youth diversion structure, at present it is only reactive by design, depending on referral triggers through public service representa-

THE WRONG WAY ON THE M9 Five teenage boys were killed after they drove a high-powered BMW the wrong way on the M9 and collided with a family travelling to Dublin Airport in the early hours of Sunday morning.

They were: Jeremy O’Brien, 18, and Alex McCarthy, 17, both from Carlow; Joey Carthy, 15, and Jack Kennedy, 17, both from Athy; and Kamil Pustkowski, 17, from Limerick.

A liaison officer has also been appointed to each family.

It is expected to be several days before the post-mortems are concluded and the teens’ bodies can be released to their families.

The occupants of the Hyundai, adults Ella Hendricken and Niamh and Alma Kinsella and a young child, are from the same extended family from Carlow. They have suffered serious injuries.

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tives. There’s already an infrastructure for this in Ireland: the question is really whether it is reaching children early enough and consistently enough.

So, what exists now?

• Guards run a school programme specifically to discourage young people from becoming involved in criminal behaviour.

• Guards National Youth Diversion Projects work with young children aged 12-18 who are significantly at risk of anti-social or criminal behaviour and can extend to 10-11-year-olds at a referred committee’s discretion.

• Under the Youth Justice Strategy, projects have expanded to do early intervention work with children as young as eight-11 who are at risk of criminality later in life to provide tailored family support and help schools retain at-risk kids in education.

• Coverage of this was only completed nationwide very recently, though the network reached full national roll-out as of November 2025.

The Garda Traffic Watch Online reporting form is presently used for the public to report driver behaviour, driving hazards and traffic-related incidents, which is answered by civilian staff at Garda Information Services in Castlebar and then disseminated to the relevant local Garda station.

This is a non-emergency form for flagging a video of dangerous driving. If the video shows an offence in progress or immediate danger, then you call 999. The social media platforms need to act at once and there should be a direct link into the Gardai with this information.

We seem to operate from a chronic state of contraction.

The strength of a community is measured by how it cares for its most vulnerable. We are all responsible as a collective community to keep each other safe. We need to leave the bystander effect behind. If we see a problem with youths early on, report it. Leave the fear of consequences and retaliation, of being the one who causes trouble for a neighbour’s child, you might be the person that saves that child.

“No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another” – Charles Dickens.

• Annette Keating now lives in Co Clare where Natasha’s ashes are scattered.

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Our nine foodies hungry for Blas awards The finalists for Blas na hÉireann, the Irish Food Awards 2026, have been announced, with nine exceptional producers from Co. Kilkenny making it through to the final stage of Ireland’s most prestigious food awards.

The finalists shortlisted from Co. Kilkenny across a wide range of categories are Arán Bakery & Bistro, Cafe la Coco, Callan Bacon, Goatsbridge Fish Processors Ltd, Highbank Orchard, Karro Food Ltd - Cookstown, Lekker Food Collection, McCarthy’s SuperValu, Newpark Shopping Centre Kilkenny and Tirlán.

“The Local Enterprise Office was pleased to partner with Blas na hÉireann this year in sponsoring several of the county’s flagship awards.” said John Mulcahy, LEO Kilkenny. “Kilkenny is home to an incredible wealth of passionate food producers and exceptional local produce, and these awards play an important role in celebrating and showing their achievements. Every one of the county’s producers has done Kilkenny proud.”

The countdown is now officially on for the return to Dingle this autumn, where the very best of Irish food and drink will be celebrated from Thursday, October 1 to Sunday, October 4, with

the Blas Village, Showcase, Eat Ireland in the four-day market and the awards themselves announced on Friday, October 2.

Now in its 19th year, Blas na hÉireann continues to grow, with more than 3,000 entries submitted from across the island and a record number

of new producers taking part.

The number of food and drink categories has also increased from 170 to over 200 this year. Bronze, silver and

gold awards are presented across the food and drink categories, alongside major accolades including Supreme Champion, supported by

Bord Bia and Best Artisan Producer, supported by the LEO Network.

The judging, which took place over June and July in partnership with UCC and TU Dublin, is blind-tasted and scored by a network of expert judges, including chefs, buyers, academics, restaurateurs and industry leaders. Only the top entries from each category make it to the finalist stage, which is a huge achievement in itself.

“It’s been another exceptional year for Blas na hÉireann,” said Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie Clifford.

“The quality and creativity of this year’s entries have been outstanding, showcasing the talent, innovation and dedication of food and drink producers across Ireland.

“Blas is all about celebrating these producers and giving them the recognition they deserve, and we look forward to welcoming them to Dingle this October.”

Making it as a finalist is no small achievement. The competition intensifies every year, and the producers shortlisted really do represent the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink. The Blas na hÉireann awards weekend is a celebration of great food, and of the people, passion and place that make Irish food so special.

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EU ‘must handle’ grain crisis Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher has said that a panEuropean response to the growing crisis in the fodder sector and the wider tillage sector will be needed due to the widespread nature of the extreme weather challenges over the past few months.

“It’s clear that it’s not just Ireland suffering from a very

hot summer. We are already hearing stories of Hungarian tillage farmers already seeing 50-60% reduction in yields.

“In the immediate term, I am deeply concerned about the potential for a serious fodder crisis in the months ahead. Maize crop yields across Europe will be severe-

ly depleted which will undermine massively European fodder reserves,” he said.

“Now is the time to reestablish the Fodder and Feed Security Committee, under the auspices of Teagasc, to assess in real time what is happening on the ground across Ireland.”

Yields in every crop were

under threat. Not only would this cause fodder challenges, but it would also lead to inflation in the supermarkets for ordinary families, at a time when they simply could not afford an extra cost.

“While the Government can mitigate certain issues, I firmly believe this issue is much bigger than one or two

You can earn more with State savings from next month as interest rises Savers have received a boost with a string of interest rate rises being announced for State Savings products from the end of this month.

The National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) is increasing the rates that apply to new issues of the fixedterm products that are sold through An Post.

The NTMA is also increasing the variable rate on Post Office Savings Bank deposit accounts. And the variable rate used to calculate the monthly prize fund for Prize Bonds will also increase from September 1.

The move to pay out more on these products comes following calls earlier this year to increase the returns, especially in light of European Central Bank rate rises.

The timing of the increases is seen as odd as it comes ahead of Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris announcing a new savings and investment product, expected to be outlined in the Budget.

The changes apply to newly taken-out State Savings products from the end of this month.

Annual interest paid on the three-year Savings Bond will rise by 0.64 of a percentage point to 1.96% in annual equivalent rate (AER) terms from August 30.

The five-year Savings Certificate AER increases by 0.55 of a percentage point to 2.29%.

The six-year Instalment Savings AER increases by 0.58 of a percentage point to 2.33%.

When it comes to the 10-year National Solidarity Bond, the AER increases by 0.65 points to 2.66%.

Changes being made mean the total return for new issues of Savings Bond will rise from 4% to 6%.

The total return for Savings Certs will increase from 9% to 12%, and from 10% to 13.5% for the Instalment Savings product.

The National Solidarity Bond will have a total return of 30%, up from 22%.

Calling all young scientists for Stripe annual awards Applications are now open for the 2027 Stripe Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (Stripe YSTE). Secondary school students from Kilkenny are invited to turn their curiosity and ideas into reality and showcase them at the RDS in Dublin from January 6-9.

Whether inspired by artificial intelligence, the physics of the world around them, advances in medicine or what data reveals about human behaviour, students are encouraged to bring forward their most innovative ideas.

The total prize fund will increase by 25% for 2027, with more than 200 prizes to be

awarded. The overall winners will receive the Stripe Young Scientist(s) & Technologist(s) of the Year Award and a top prize of €10,000. They will also go on to represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS).

Catalyst participants will be paired with mentors from academia, industry and Stripe’s own engineering and science teams, travel to San Francisco to visit some of the world’s leading technology companies and present their projects at Stripe Sessions, Stripe’s flagship annual conference.

The deadline for entries is September 26.

countries. It’s why I believe it needs to be addressed at a pan-European level, by the European Commission in conjunction with the Member State governments,” Kelleher said.

“Ireland now holds the Presidency of the Council.

We should be ready and willing to add it to the

Council agenda if the situation continues to deteriorate.

“As Fianna Fáil MEPs, we have been quite clear that food security is part of European resilience. Now is the time to show that the EU can respond to the needs of all citizens, sectors and countries,” said Kelleher.

Bursary for Barnstorm’s young actors

Barnstorm Theatre Company in Kilkenny [pictured] has been awarded a total of €24,780 through the Arts Council’s Youth Ensembles Scheme.

The Arts Council’s Youth Ensembles Scheme supports groups of young people between the ages of 10 and 24. It focuses on providing them with the resources to create or critically engage with ambitious and original work

across any artform.

This year, a total of €246,439 has been awarded to 13 groups across Ireland through the Youth Ensemble Scheme.

By centring young people in the creative process, this scheme affords opportunities for confidence building, developing leadership skills and building community connections.

Research has shown that access to and participation

in the arts is an essential part of childhood which improves all aspects of children’s lives. The arts can provide a safe and inviting space for children and young people, where they have choice and agency, can develop their ideas, interests and skills and encounter new experiences and possibilities.

The Youth Ensemble Scheme is one of a number of Arts Council

schemes that support the development of youth arts in Ireland. In addition, the Arts Council is also a partner in multiple State initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for children and young people.

The Arts Council will continue to work with national and local government and local arts infrastructure, to support partnerships in the areas of early childhood, education and youth arts.

Have your say on out-of-hours vet care What happens when an animal becomes seriously ill or injured at night, at the weekend or on a public holiday?

The Veterinary Council of Ireland (VCI) is inviting the public and the veterinary professions to share their experiences and views in a national consultation on outof-hours emergency veterinary care.

Whether you have sought

emergency veterinary care for an animal, helped to provide it or experienced its impact on family life, your perspective matters.

The consultation takes approximately 25 minutes to complete. All responses will be anonymous. The consultation closes on September 11.

If you have any questions or require further guidance in relation to this consultation, please contact the Council’s

Executive Office by phone on 01 6684402 or by email at pas@vci.ie.

Meanwhile, the VCI has updated its process for the recognition of international veterinary nursing qualifications for the purpose of registration in Ireland.

The VCI entered into a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Accreditation Committee for Veterinary Nurse Education

(ACOVENE) in April 2026.

Registration applicants are advised that ACOVENE accreditation does not, in itself, confer eligibility for registration as a veterinary nurse in Ireland. International veterinary nursing qualifications are considered in accordance with the applicable legislative and regulatory requirements, including Section 96A of the Veterinary Practice Act 2005, as amended.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

iPad the launchpad to future education The human rights activist Malcolm X said: “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

Former Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn, speaking back in the mid-Noughties, said: “The education system will have changed enormously in the next 20 years — driven partly by global changes, but most importantly by the needs of students themselves.”

Globally, politics, economies, culture and life itself are in a constant state of flux.

Likewise, technology. Ireland has an education system to be proud of — we rank seventh among the OECD’s 36 countries, with Canada, Japan and Israel ranked highest. With this constant state of flux, however, as a society, as a culture and as educators, we must adapt or be left behind.

I mention all this because of the ongoing row between parents of pupils in some sec-

ondary schools and the cost of smart tablets for use in the secondary curriculum, with parents paying for the gadgets, some of which are costing up to €700 and the rest. Since the policy was introduced in 2014, parents reckon they have spent close to €1 million on the tablets, which they say can only be bought and serviced through one designated provider. The iPads cannot, as such, be used outside the classroom because of embedded algorithms.

Technology clearly has a place in education but I suggest it has to be used in a targeted way. There is incontrovertible evidence that technology can, if used correctly, be a powerful learning tool.

But we should not completely rely on it.

In one classroom are those who argue that such technology for young people can lead to sleep deprivation, distraction, multi-tasking and overall have a negative impact on learning when compared with

traditional methods.

In another room are those who say Ireland’s education sector is at a turning point — and the other side agree — but, with the European Commission estimating that 90% of tomorrow’s jobs will require digital skills, Ireland’s talent pool must have such technology. Regardless of the sector our young people choose to work in, one thing is clear: digital technology is the new reality.

Schools are now in the middle of technological innovation. Chalkboards are still ubiquitous, but computers are increasingly being used not only to supplement learning but also to administer it.

Parents can expect the coming buzzword to be ‘personalised learning’, as this technologyenabled classroom education is being called.

In schools in the UK, the US and elsewhere, those using Summit Learning, a person-

alised, online learning approach developed and funded

by Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg, the computer becomes the teacher, executing a largely self-paced curriculum and offering more flexibility and autonomy for students. The, at the moment minority-used, Silicon Valley platform has created controversy as some parents and educators resist change.

Personalised learning in schools is altering and modernising the educational landscape. It is just a launchpad to greater things.

True education transformation will come, I believe and wrote here recently, when those young minds (and parents) realise that they don’t need an intermediary at all. As AI will change many jobs, it too will one day make teachers, as such, redundant.

I foresee more, though. Personalised learning in conventional schools then will shift

to self-directed education or what educators call unschooling, or education driven by students using the resourcerich networks of both real and digital communities.

Conflating learning with schooling, mired in coercion and a controlled curriculum, is an outdated idea.

We grown-ups at last see how technology as educator works in our adult lives.

Whether it’s using YouTube to fix a drain, Duolingo to learn a language, audiobooks to listen to books or FaceTime to have lessons with your double-bass teacher, technology is schooling us to shed our hitherto schooled vision of learning.

Technology frees us from the institutional paradigm (or mode) of traditional education and lets us teach ourselves. Our children intrinsically know it will do likewise for them.

It’s their brave new world after all...

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An bhfuil tú ag obair anois ar amhráin as Gaeilge?

The Amhrán na Laoch Songwriting Competition, run by Hot Press and the Independent Broadcasters of Ireland (IBI) and supported by Coimisiún na Meán and An Post, will see a recording of the winning song being released

by Gael Linn.

Amhrán na Laoch was won last time out by Huartan, from Belfast, with ‘Bean Udaí Thall’.

Huartan went on to win the Live Act of the Year Award at the NI Music Prize and also took the BBC Introducing Northern Irish Artist of the Year Award at the end of 2025.

Críostóir Mac Cafraidh, Senior Communications Executive at An Post, said: “By helping to showcase Irish language music on a national stage, we are supporting

Labour costs up 17% as job market splits two ways Construction, industry and transport added 56,500 roles in a year while high-tech and labour-intensive services shed 71,000 between them, and employers are pushing new hiring into contract rather than permanent, according to an Irish Labour Market Monitor for Q2 2026.

Ireland now has a twospeed labour market, and employers are hedging their way through it, according to the market monitor published today by the Employment and Recruitment Federation of Ireland (ERF).

CSO data cited in the report shows employment in construction, industry and transport rose by 56,500 in the year to Q1 2026. Over the same period the high-tech services sectors lost 35,000 jobs and the labour-intensive services sectors lost 36,000. Headline employment barely moved, holding at 2.79 million, unchanged on Q1 2025, while the labour force grew by just 0.6%, the smallest annual increase in five years.

Underneath a flat national figure, in other words, roughly 71,000 services jobs went, and 56,500 site and logistics jobs arrived.

The ERF research, carried out by Ipsos B&A among recruitment businesses across Ireland and supported by ICON Accounting, shows how firms are responding.

In June, 52% of recruiters filled contract vacancies, up from 41% in April, and the share reporting an increase in contract placements on the previous month doubled over the quarter, from 16% to 32%.

Permanent hiring stayed broadly flat across the same three months. Temporary work went the other

way. Some 101,900 people were engaged in temporary agency work in Q1 2026, a fall of 9,400 on the final quarter of 2025, and only 24% of agencies reported an increase in temporary vacancies filled in June, down from 36% in May. The monitor identifies employment costs as the pressure point for SMEs and for sectors. labour-intensive CSO figures show average hourly total labour costs rose by 17.4% in the three years to Q1 2026, from €33.15 to €38.92 an hour.

PRSI rates rise again for both employers and employees on 1 October 2026, following January increases in the national minimum wage to €14.15 an hour and the first year of employer contributions under the My Future Fund automatic enrolment pension scheme.

Softer demand has not made hiring easier. In June, 58% of recruiters reported an increase in time to hire for permanent positions compared with three months earlier, while 40% said it had stayed the same.

For contract roles, time to hire stayed the same for 55% and increased for 40%.

The finding runs against employer-side surveys reporting shorter median hiring times this year. The ERF measure asks recruitment businesses whether time to hire has moved since the previous quarter, rather than measuring an average across all vacancies, and reflects the roles agencies are engaged on, typically the harder ones to fill.

Client demand held up throughout, with up to 76% of recruiters signing new clients in the previous month.

communities, culture and the continued growth of an Ghaeilge across Ireland."

Hot Press Editor Niall Stokes said:“There are many musicians and songwriters writing songs in Irish now and creating brilliant work that resonates throughout the world.”

Michael Kelly, Chief Executive of IBI, said: "The Irish language is achieving fast-growWomen-led businesses should be given greater priority in Budget 2027, with targeted measures needed to help female entrepreneurs overcome barriers to growth and support Ireland’s wider economic performance, according to Network Ireland.

The organisation, which represents more than 1,400 members through 17 branches nationwide, has called on the Government to recognise women-led enterprise as a key driver of productivity, resilience and sustainable economic growth.

In its first national preBudget submission, Ireland’s longest-established womenonly business network has identified seven priority areas for Budget 2027, including reducing the cost of doing business, improving access to finance for female entrepreneurs, expanding childcare supports, investing in skills and artificial intelligence, strengthening innovation and addressing housing and infrastructure challenges.

The submission is based on a survey of members which found inflation and rising operating costs remain among the biggest challenges facing businesses. It also highlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence, with almost seven in ten members already using the technology and many expecting to increase their use of the technology in 2027.

Network Ireland National President Karen Ronan said women-led businesses were making a significant [pictured] contribution to the Irish economy but continued to face barriers that limited their ability to grow.

“Women-led businesses

ing levels of interest with the support of music artists. Our independent radio stations are delighted to be associated with this initiative and look forward to even more innovative ways of bringing music in the Irish language to listeners.”

Réamonn Ó Ciaráin, CEO of Gael Linn, said: "We hope to bring an extra dimension to

the Amhrán na Laoch competition by working with the winner to ensure their awardwinning song is available across the globe on the major digital platforms on a music label with seventy years of experience in the field, Gael Linn."

Entries for Amhrán • na Laoch should be sent directly to Hot Press. The closing

date for entries to Amhrán na Laoch is Friday, September 18. Songwriters or artists wishing to enter must get a recording or a demo done and upload that song or track via the special Amhrán na Laoch entry form on hotpress.com.

If your song gets selected, as well as the free recording deal, you win €2,500 prize money.

Women in business 'not simply an equality issue' are creating jobs, driving innovation and making a significant contribution to Ireland’s economy. Budget 2027 is an opportunity to remove barriers that continue to limit business growth while unlocking the full potential of female entrepreneurship,” she said.

“Investing in women in business is not simply an equality issue; it is an eco-

nomic one. The right supports will strengthen businesses, increase workforce participation and enhance Ireland’s competitiveness.”

Among its recommendations, Network Ireland is calling for targeted tax measures for SMEs, improved access to finance, increased investment in childcare and stronger supports for innovation and skills development.

Ms Ronan said the measures would help create the conditions for more women to start and grow successful businesses.

“By investing in female entrepreneurship, childcare, innovation and workforce participation, Government can deliver lasting benefits for businesses, communities and the wider economy,” she said.

Call to abolish hospital parking charges Sinn Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome Drennan, has called for a funded plan to phase out hospital car parking charges, saying patients and families should not be charged simply because they need healthcare.

Figures provided by the HSE in response to a Parliamentary Question by Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson on Health, David Cullinane TD, show

that hospital car parking income at St Luke’s rose from €190,656 in 2021 to €461,145 in 2025 – a 142% increase.

Statewide, income increased from €7.39 million in 2021 to €17.76 million in 2025.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said: “Income from hospital car parking fees at St Luke’s Hospital rose from €190,656 in 2021 to €461,145 in 2025 – a 142% increase.

“Hospital car parking

charges are a charge on being sick and visiting families and friends in hospital. No one chooses to be sick or to have a sick child in hospital. Yet patients and families in the Southeast are being asked to pay these charges again and again," she said.

“People with disabilities, carers and families visiting loved ones in hospital are also being hit."

The amount being raised

through hospital parking has increased dramatically.

Hospitals should not have to depend on money collected from sick people and their families.

“We need a funded plan to phase these charges out. The Government should provide replacement funding as charges are phased out, while ensuring hospital parking remains available for patients and visitors,” she said.

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Why lads need lessons about equality The latest plans to promote gender equality have been greeted with derision and had fun made of them. A bit unfortunate, but they have come across like a well-intentioned but misguided auntie giving out unasked-for advice and furthermore barking – or rather advising – up the wrong tree.

The National Strategy for Women and Girls, endorsed by the National Women’s Council, includes a campaign against ‘manosphere’ type narratives by the likes of the Tate Brothers, Andrew and Tristan (nasty fellows currently awaiting extradition from the US to the UK on charges of rape and sex trafficking) and ‘tradwife’ influencers in case girls might be pressurised into ‘care’ roles.

Take a look at crime figures: 93% of homicides are committed by males, men are the ones who rape and impose coercive control over women and are almost exclusively the

perpetrators in domestic abuse cases. In the domestic sphere, men hardly pull their weight; 98% of intensive, unpaid caring is done by women and 65% of parent caring, according to the Council for the Status of Women, and women still do twice as much of the domestic work as men while holding down a full-time job.

It seems to me, unless I am completely confused, there is a problem with men’s – some men – anti-social and uncaring behaviour. So why, in the name of goodness, are the Department of Children, Disability and Equality directing their 2026-28 plan for the advancement of gender equality at we girls rather than enlightening the guys? It’s a bit like blaming the victim.

Among the aims of the plan are that women “should be free from harmful gender norms, free from violence and harassment and that their needs should be taken into

account in policy”. Who, you might ask, is responsible for harmful misogyny, for violence and for policy which fails to take account of women’s needs?

What planet are these strategists and council members living on? Perhaps one dedicated to a mistaken form of virtue signalling? Surely the solution lies in changing the thinking of guys who want the manosphere version of women who are subservient to male domination and are influenced by porn portraying women as sex objects?

If the strategists think that us Irish girls and women don’t see through the American phenomenon of tradwives which monetise a romantic version of motherhood, they are seriously insulting our intelligence. The difficulties of married women’s lot a couple of decades ago, with a marriage bar and no access to birth control, are far too recent for

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 182

"‘Change begins in everyone's home"

us to have any illusions about a ‘trad’ version of wifehood.

Many women would like to spend more time at home with their children. As things are,

“Men are the ones who impose coercive control over women...

they cannot afford to do so; it takes eight to nine times a couple’s combined annual salary to buy a home. Policy doesn’t provide adequate support for childcare for women who work, either. Where is a stayat-home parent allowance or comprehensive childcare support when we need it?

There are plenty of worthwhile measures in the plan – like encouraging girls to take up apprenticeships – but it seems to echo the thinking behind the ill-judged ‘Women In The Home’ 2024 referendum. Involving two amendments to the Constitution, one dealing with care and the other with the definition of family, the change, which would have deleted the words woman, mother and home, was roundly defeated. Women don’t want their identity and roles deleted. Nothing wrong with equality of opportunity but that shouldn’t ignore the difference between the sexes.

Women want to care, it’s part of what they do.

It seems that women are often caught in a conflict between caring and career without enough support from State, employers and partners.

Author Joanna Trollope, a canny observer of domestic angst, writes about Ruth, successful and out-earning her husband to his consternation, who finds she is pregnant. In her novel Second Honeymoon Ruth thinks: ”In behaving in a way that was not automatically self-deprecating and deferential she had surrendered the chief defining quality of femininity, that of being the giver.

Never mind the unfairness of it, never mind the way that the most cherished traits of femininity always seem to be defined within a relationship, as if possessing no value unless to others.”

Women need caring to be valued and supported. They also want a fair deal.

Is brain fog part of the perimenopause?

You're not imagining it Have you ever walked into a room and completely forCLAIR gotten why you were WHITTY there? Or struggled to remember someone's name or found yourself searching for words that used to come so easily? If this sounds familiar and you're in your forties or fifties, you're certainly not alone.

One of the most common, and often frustrating, symptoms of perimenopause is brain fog.

Many women describe feeling forgetful, unable to concentrate or simply not as mentally sharp as they once were. The good news is that this is a recognised symptom of the hormonal changes taking place during this stage of life.

As oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate, they can affect areas of the brain responsible for memory, concentration and mood. Oestrogen also plays an important role in supporting communication between brain cells, so when hormone levels are changing, it's no surprise that many women notice lapses in memory or find it harder to focus. Add poor sleep, stress and the demands of everyday life into the mix, and brain fog can become even more noticeable.

This is an area that Dr Marilyn Glenville, one of the UK's leading nutritional therapists specialising in women's health, has spent decades researching. Her top suggestions to help with the relief of symptoms of hormonal imbalance like brain fog and hot flushes include: NHP Omega 3 Support contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are a major component of brain cells and play an important role in supporting normal brain function. They may be especially beneficial during midlife, when

looking after long-term brain health becomes increasingly important.

Many women find that disturbed sleep during perimenopause leaves them feeling exhausted and mentally foggy the following day. NHP Sleep Support has been formulated to encourage a more restful night's sleep, helping you waken feeling refreshed.

For hormone balance, NHP Herbal Support combines carefully selected herbs traditionally used to help women through the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause.

Supporting hormone balance may, in turn, help ease some of the symptoms that contribute to brain fog.

Thankfully brain fog doesn't mean you're losing your memory or that you are going mad.

With a healthy diet, regular exercise, good quality sleep and targeted nutritional support you will be on your way to better brain function every day.

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

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News

Rás na mBan Returns to Kilkenny for 20th Edition This is the 20th anniversary of Rás na mBan and ten years since the race first journeyed to Kilkenny where the five-day, sixstage event will both begin and conclude again this year in the first week of September.

Rás na mBan returns to Kilkenny this September as Ireland’s international bike race for women prepares to celebrate its 20th edition.

It's also the tenth year anniversary of the event making Kilkenny its base and a busy week of top class bike racing will culminate with the traditional Sunday double header of race action at Kilkenny Castle.

All week long, the top locally-based riders will be vying for the coveted green Kilkenny County Council best Irish Rider jersey, one of the most highly prized awards in Irish cycle racing.

Beginning on Wednesday 2nd of September, the 2026 edition of the race will see three of the six stages hosted within County Kilkenny with the Race HQ firmly established from a Kilkenny base.

The opening stage will get underway from Race HQ at the Hoban Hotel with the peloton racing through Freshford, past Urlingford, crossing into County Tipperary briefly as they ride towards Ballingarry. While the route will mirror last year in the opening 76km, riders will pass through the finish line in Freshford and continue for 8km on the original route before taking a sharp left and heading for the top of Rathealy from a different angle before a fast finish in Freshford.

This year’s extended version will feature three Queen of the Mountains (QoM) opportunities, for any climbers hoping to make their mark early in the race. Kearney’s Hill will play host to the opening battle for the coveted IVCA Wicklow 200 QoM jersey, while Rathealy will provide additional challenge with maximum gradients of 13.5% (average of 3.1%) on the second ascent.

Sunday 6th September, the final day of racing, will again feature a double helping of top class racing starting with the fifth stage – a 2.5km time trial set against the backdrop

of one of Kilkenny’s most iconic landmarks.

The race will end with the popular hour-long Kilkenny City Circuit Race on the familiar 2.5km circuit starting on The Parade in front of Kilkenny Castle, a spectacular and high octane end to the five days of racing.

Kilkenny County Council Best Irish Rider Jersey Kilkenny County Council has supported the event since 2016 and once again, starting on Wednesday September 2nd, along with the race for the overall title, the best locally based talent is vying for the highly coveted green jersey awarded to the Kilkenny County Council Best Irish Rider. The leading Irish rider will be presented on the podium after each stage and recognisable in the bunch each day by the distinctive green Kilkenny County Council Best Irish Rider jersey.

Riders from all over Europe and further afield, as well as the best of Ireland’s international and locally-based racers will descend on Kilkenny for the event which showcases the beauty and variety of roads and landscape of the Leinster county.

Stage finishes in Freshford, Gorey, Carrick-on-Suir, Corrabut Gap and Kilkenny City feature in the 400km week of bike racing. For full route details see https://rasnamban.com/2026-route/.

In welcoming Rás na mBan back to Kilkenny Cllr. Joe Malone, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, said, “On behalf of Kilkenny County Council, I am delighted to welcome Rás na mBan back to Kilkenny for its 20th anniversary and the 10th anniversary of the race in our county.”

"We are honoured to host Ireland’s premier international women’s stage race for a tenth successive edition and showcase Kilkenny’s heritage, communities and landscapes. I also wish to acknowledge our local riders, past and present, and thank the organisers, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who make this outstanding event possible.”

Race Director Valerie Considine is looking forward to returning to Kilkenny in three weeks’ time.

“Kilkenny has been a fan-

Ras na mBan

tastic base for Rás na mBan over the past ten years and we have also enjoyed taking the race to different locations in and around neighbouring counties in that time,” says Considine.

Over the years, we have created challenging routes throughout Kilkenny, and 2026 is no different, with increased climbing adding a demanding twist to the opening stage. The event showcases everything Kilkenny has to offer, from exciting racing to the beauty of Kilkenny City and County and Ireland’s Ancient East.

Our traditional finale in front of Kilkenny Castle remains a highlight, providing an iconic backdrop for topclass women’s bike racing.

We are grateful for the continued support of Kilkenny County Council, An Garda Síochána, the OPW and our major backers, whose valued assistance makes this event possible each year.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

News Six students and apprentices from Co. Kilkenny will compete on the national stage when WorldSkills Ireland returns to RDS Simmonscourt, Dublin, from September 16 to 18.

WorldSkills Ireland, the country’s leading showcase of skills, apprenticeships, Further Education and Training, and skills-based careers, will bring together Ireland’s next generation of talent for three action-packed days of live competitions, interactive experiences and opportunities to explore education, training and career pathways.

More than 160 students and apprentices will compete across 31 live National Skills competitions. Working under competition conditions, they will demonstrate industrystandard skills in real time, showcasing the talent, knowledge and technical expertise required across Ireland’s workforce.

Competitions will cover sectors including construction, manufacturing and engineering, automotive, creative arts, hospitality and tourism and digital technology.

Representing County Kilkenny at WorldSkills Ireland 2026 are: * Gavin Connor from Castlecomer, competing in Construction Plant Fitting. * Laura Breen from Kilkenny, competing in Hairdressing. * Leagh Cody from Outrath Road, Loughboy, competing in Hairdressing. * Lorcan Suffin from Kilmacow, competing in Industrial Mechanics. * Jamie Hearne from Piltown, competing in Joinery. * Casey Nolan from Thomastown, competing in Toolmaking The live competitions are at the heart of WorldSkills Ireland, giving visitors the opportunity to see the skill, precision and commitment involved in apprenticeship and technical careers.

They also allow students, parents, teachers and guidance counsellors to see firsthand the standards expected by industry and the wide range of progression and career opportunities available through apprenticeships and Further Education and Training.

Commenting ahead of the event, Ray English, World-

Skills take centre stage for the Kilkenny Six

The world at their hands: from left, Lorcan Suffin, Leagh Cody, Jamie Hearne, Casey Nolan and Gavin Connor. Laura Brown not available at the time

Skills Ireland Chair, said: “Skills and apprenticeships are fundamental to Ireland’s future. They support our economy, strengthen industries and create real opportunities for people across the country. WorldSkills Ireland brings that message to life by showing young people the value of practical learning and the rewarding careers it can lead to.

“The event also has an important role to play in changing perceptions. Apprentice-

ships and technical careers are not alternative or lesser routes; they are ambitious pathways that require real ability and can lead to longterm success. By seeing competitors perform at a national level, students can better understand the standard involved and the opportunities open to them.”

Alongside the competitions, WorldSkills Ireland 2026 will offer students, parents, teachers and guidance counsellors the opportunity to explore

skills and apprenticeship, Further Education and Training, and skills-based pathways through interactive demonstrations, hands-on ‘Try A Skill’ experiences, industry talks and direct engagement with employers, industry bodies and education and training providers.

The event aims to challenge outdated perceptions surrounding vocational and technical careers, while highlighting the vital role that skilled people play in supporting

communities, strengthening industries and driving Ireland’s economy.

WorldSkills Ireland will once again run alongside The Irish Times Higher Options.

Together, the events will allow visiting students to explore the full range of options available after school, including university, apprenticeships, Further Education and Training, tertiary programmes and skills-based careers, during a single visit to the RDS. With more than 30,000

visitors expected and over 300 schools set to attend, WorldSkills Ireland 2026 will provide a unique platform for young people to meet employers and education providers, experience skills in action, and discover the education, training and career pathways available to them. * For further information and to register, visit www. worldskillsireland.ie or follow WorldSkills Ireland on social media.

Who will farm Ireland? Debating the next generation Bridging the generational gap in farming to secure the future of Ireland’s food production model will be among the key issues discussed when senior agricultural leaders gather for the Agricultural Science Association (ASA) Annual Conference at the Killashee Hotel, Naas, on Thursday, September 3.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon TD will join figures from across Ireland’s agri

sector, including Conor Galvin, CEO of Ornua, and Paul Nolan, Group Development Manager at Dawn Meats, alongside representatives from industry, research and policy.

With just 4.5% of Irish farmers under 35 years of age, generational renewal will be one of the key themes of the conference. Barry Cowen MEP will provide an overview of the latest developments on genera-

tional renewal under the next Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), before joining IFA President Francie Gorman, Macra President Josephine O’Neill, Paul Nolan of Dawn Meats and Dr Fiona Williams of Harper Adams University for a panel discussion chaired by Dr Brian Leonard of UCD. ASA President Dale Crammond said: “Generational renewal is critical to the future of Irish farming. We

need to ensure that the sector remains strong and viable for those already farming while giving the next generation the confidence to see a future in it.”

Sponsored by FBD Insurance, the event will also explore Ireland’s strengths as a food-producing nation, with speakers including John Murray, Director of Meat, Food and Beverages at Bord Bia, Jennifer Babcock, Chief Government and Interna-

tional Affairs Officer at the Canadian Cattle Association and Paul McGillicuddy, CEO of The Malting Company.

Water quality, climate and biodiversity will be among the other key challenges examined, with contributions from Thomas Ryan of Tirlán and Bill Callanan, Chief Inspector at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The programme will feature a fireside chat with Tara Mc-

Carthy, Global Vice President of ESG at Alltech, hosted by Damien O’Reilly of ICOS. Dale Crammond said: “There are no easy answers to all of these challenges, but by bringing people together to share ideas and highlight positive developments, we hope to contribute to the discussion and help shape the future of Irish agriculture. We look forward to welcoming colleagues from across the sector in September.”

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Getting yourself ready for Budget Day Budget Day is set for Tuesday, October 6. That gives us roughly seven weeks to get our own finances in order before the minister stands up in the Dáil.

The Government has already indicated that this is likely to be a tighter Budget than we’ve seen in recent years. Around €1.5 billion has been set aside for tax measures, with much of that expected to go towards income tax changes. One possibility is an increase in the standard-rate band, currently €44,000 for a single person.

If that happens, more of your income could be taxed at 20% rather than 40%. There has also been talk of further help with childcare costs and a new savings and investment scheme designed to encourage people to move money out of low-interest deposit accounts.

But whatever is announced on 6 October, there is plenty you can usefully do before then.

1. Get a clear picture of where you are Start with the basics. Pull together your latest payslips, pension statements and regular household expenses.

Look at your taxable income and see where you currently sit in relation to the €44,000 threshold. If you are married or in a civil partnership and jointly assessed, the position is different, so make sure you are looking at the threshold that applies to you. That way, if the tax bands change, you will be able to work out what it actually means for you rather than just reacting to a headline figure.

2. Make sure you’re using the reliefs available to you Check that you are claiming everything you are entitled to, including medical expenses, the rent tax credit and remote working relief.

Pensions need to be looked at. If you have unused contribution capacity this year,

are earning. Once the scheme is announced, you will be in a much better position to decide whether it makes sense for you.

consider using some of it before 31 December. Tax relief at your marginal rate can make these contributions particularly attractive. If you have an AVC or PRSA, now is the time to review it rather than leaving it until the end of the year.

3. Don’t overlook the big monthly bills Energy, insurance and mortgage costs often have a bigger effect on household finances than a modest Budget change. Get quotes.

Check what you are paying. If your mortgage rate is coming

up for review, look at your options now. You do not need to wait for Budget Day, and in some cases the savings from switching or renegotiating could outweigh whatever tax measures are announced.

4. Have a look at your cash The Government has said it plans to introduce a new taxadvantaged savings or investment account, with the detail expected around Budget time.

There is no need to make any decisions yet. What is useful is knowing how much cash you currently hold in deposit accounts and what interest you

5. Don’t rush on Budget Day Budget speeches are designed to grab attention. You will hear big numbers and dramatic headlines. For most households, the valuable information comes afterwards, when the details are published and we can see exactly who benefits, by how much and from when.

So, there is no need to make a major financial decision on 6 October or the morning after. Give it a few days, let the detail emerge, run the numbers and then decide what, if anything, needs to change.

A few practical steps between now and October • Update your income and tax positions.

• Check that you are claiming

all the reliefs to which you are entitled.

• Review your pension contributions for 2026.

• Get quotes for energy and insurance.

• Check your mortgage rate and when it is due for review.

• See how much cash you are holding in low-interest accounts.

• Put October 6 in the diary and plan to review the Budget properly once the detail is available.

The Budget will come and go. Your financial position will not change overnight. The people who tend to get the most from these changes are usually the ones who already know where they stand, what they are paying and what they could improve.

A little preparation now will make it much easier to work out what the Budget means for you when the time comes. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

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News

McGuinness calls for urgent investment and staffing in Kilkenny mental health services

BY JOHN MCGUINNESS - TD

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Carlow-Kilkenny TD John McGuinness has called on the HSE to move more quickly to modernise psychiatric services in Kilkenny and to urgently address staffing shortages in the service.

Deputy McGuinness was responding to a Parliamentary Question he submitted to the Minister for Health seeking an update on the urgent need for capital investment in the Department of Psychiatry at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny.

In its response, the HSE has acknowledged the need for a modern acute mental health admission unit in Kilkenny, stating that the requirement is being driven by current pressures on the

service as well as projected future demand.

The HSE also confirmed that a multidisciplinary working group has been established to progress capital planning and that a capital proposal has been developed and submitted for assessment under the Department of Health’s Strategic Healthcare Investment Framework.

Deputy McGuinness said this recognition of the need for a new facility was welcome, but that the people of Kilkenny could not afford to wait indefinitely for improvements.

“The HSE has acknowledged what I have been saying for some time – Kilkenny needs a modern acute mental health admission unit and the existing service must be brought up to the standard that people in the county have a right to expect.

“The fact that a proposal has now been submitted for assessment is a positive step, but it is only a step.

What is needed now is urgency, a

clear timetable and a commitment to delivering the necessary investment.

“It is simply not good enough that Kilkenny does not have a modern Department of Psychiatry service with the appropriate level of facilities and staffing to deal with the growing demand for mental health services.

“Mental health difficulties are affecting more and more families, and the pressure on services is increasing. We cannot continue to respond to that pressure by simply trying to make existing facilities and resources stretch further.”

Deputy McGuinness also stressed that capital investment alone will not solve the problems facing mental health services in Kilkenny.

“We need the HSE to recruit and retain the psychiatrists, nurses, healthcare professionals and other members of the multidisciplinary teams required to provide a properly functioning service.

“A modern building is important,

but it is the staff who provide the care. If we are serious about improving mental health services, we need investment in both the infrastructure and the people delivering those services.

“The HSE must also look at how quickly vacancies are being filled and whether the recruitment processes are moving quickly enough. Patients and their families should not be left waiting because positions remain unfilled.”

The HSE response acknowledges that population growth, particularly in Kilkenny City and surrounding areas, is expected to increase demand for acute mental health services and inpatient admissions.

Deputy McGuinness said this makes the case for investment even stronger.

“We know that Kilkenny is growing. We know that demand for healthcare is increasing. We also know that mental health is an area where early intervention and timely access to appropriate care

can make an enormous difference.

“The HSE itself is forecasting increased demand. That means we should be planning ahead rather than waiting until services are under even greater pressure.

“I am asking the Minister for Health and the HSE to ensure that the proposal for the new acute mental health admission unit is progressed as quickly as possible and that the necessary funding is made available.

“At the same time, I want to see a much stronger recruitment drive for mental health staff in Kilkenny.

The people of Kilkenny deserve a modern, properly resourced and adequately staffed psychiatric service.

“I will continue to press for progress on this issue and will be seeking further information from the HSE on the timeframe for the capital proposal, the level of investment required and the staffing resources that will be needed to operate the service properly.”

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Kilkenny Arts Festival

Happiness abounds, as Art brings joy and colour to Kilkenny Photos: jbsphotoskilkenny At the time of the opening of the Kilkenny Arts Festival, I sat in the majestic gardens of Rothe House, and was treated to some beautiful music complements of Lucia Mac Partlin and Maria Ryan. This event was one of many performances under the umbrella of the ever-popular ‘Secret Garden Music Series’. The series consisted of musicians performing short pop-up concerts in some of the city’s most iconic spaces.

And it didn’t stop there. From the house originally owned by Richard de Clare on the Castle Road, to the beautiful St Canice’s Cathedral, music, song, dance and art became part and parcel of everyday life in Kilkenny. That the sun shone throughout, multiplied the good feel factor. An impromptu session by six musicians, (part of AKA) in the space between The Fig Tree restaurant and O’Mahony’s chemist was heaven on earth, as a Jazz band from Norway entertained. I doubt that many of the audience were well versed in Jazz music, but as the great Duke Ellington said, “If it sounds good and it feels good, then it is good”.

It was with a certain amount of irony that I noted the close proximity of this ‘session’ to where The Market Cross was erected in 1335, and where the famous mystery plays were performed regularly.

The Arts Festival and the AKA did themselves and the county proud with their eclectic mix from the Arts. Apart from the established venues, coffee shops, hotel foyers, lane way steps and streets became performance and exhibition spaces. We at The Kilkenny Observer were delighted to be out and about during the festival and offer our congratulations to all involved in the promotion of Kilkenny through the Arts. We include some photos as a reminder of the happiness that was created.

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Kilkenny Arts Festival

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

The devil, the witch and the warlock

Our Arts Festival has come and gone – but the memories linger on. And the memory that will linger with me was the performance by the Irish Chamber Orchestra (titled The Devil, The Witch And The Warlock, a memorable title in itself, echoing CS Lewis’s classic, The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe) which included some Vivaldi and Mozart among others.

The performance brought us through the supernatural imagination of Europe: saints, sorcerers, devils and witches. Marvellous music but what I will remember most is Norwegian, Henning Kraggerud, violinist, composer and director of the orchestra who electrified the stage of Saint Canice’s Cathedral with his violin playing.

He was so energised that I thought he was going to lift off, take flight.

I had visions of him flying above the roof of Saint Canice’s just like the fiddlers

in surrealist artist Marc Chagall’s paintings; fiddlers dancing, joyfully above village rooftops (which inspired the title of the musical Fiddler On The Roof ) Henning Kraggerud, your impassioned, vibrant, virtuoso performance will linger long in the memory.

Another highlight of the festival was the Burning Of Petronella performed in

Paddy Cunningham – Art Exhibition, Macra Hall, Callan

Open until 6th September, 2.00pm to 5.00pm All welcome.

the grounds of St Kieran’s College. Petronella, as we know, was ‘witch’ Alice Kyteler’s maid and when Alice escaped out of Ireland, Bishop de Ledrede needed a scapegoat – Petronella, publicly flogged and then burned at the stake.

There was no flogging in St Kieran’s you’ll be glad to know but there was a very impressive re-enactment of

the burning. With a massive cast, including a choir, this open-air performance in the dark, edging towards the ‘witching hour’, was quite spectacular. Well done to all involved and the writer Clare Monnelly.

Another favourite event was the Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet launch in the Parade Tower. The broadsheet provides a precious platform for Kilkenny, and Kilkennybased, poets. Once on the periphery of the festival, now, thanks to Mary Butler, Kathy Conlon and Deirdre Southey of Kilkenny’s Arts Office The Broadsheet, beautifully illustrated by Tim Harper, features prominently in the week’s events. The 15 poems in the Broadsheet reflected editor, Jane Robinson’s ‘preoccupation with nature.’

Following are two of my favourites: Old Field by the legendary, Willie Joe Meally, who features regularly in The Broadsheet.

I am an old field animals roam my pastures graze my sweet grass lie on my soft surface.

people come turn my soil to the sun plant their crops wait for new shoots to appear. they say I am great earth, carry my produce home in baskets I love their company as they sit on me, tell stories I have insects in my body birds to tickle my skin rain to quench my thirst sun to warm my heart.

I look at the sky and wonder, my heart sings with the rhythm of streams and rivers flowing through my mind.

Orla Hennessy’s: Litany, is a classic example of the sim-

plicity, and beauty, of poetry (Orla is also a novelist, her book The Left House is available in The Book Centre and Kahn’s) As I listened to a bumble bee droning in and out of flowers sounding like a mumbled pray for us I found myself praying for all garden creatures disturbed by our ways the handsome blackbird the generous honeybees the earth moving worm the web weaving spider the robin who winters the wasp who worries the balancing blue tits the folding butterfly the ant always busy the unhurried snail and the wren with the loudest voice.

PS Oh, and there was the Eoghan O Drisceoil painting I purchased: Three Men In A Boat. I love it.

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News Responding to what he described as a “frightening surge” in farm-related accidents and tragedies, the Chairperson of the ICMSA Farm Business Committee, Pat O'Brien, has urged farmers to ‘force themselves’ to keep farm safety at the front of their minds and work practices in the busy weeks ahead as they work tirelessly to ensure livestock have adequate water and feed supplies.

“First and foremost, I want to express ICMSA’s sincere sympathies to the families and friends of those who have tragically lost loved ones in farm accidents in recent times. Many farmers have been working around the clock to keep water troughs filled and animals cared for during challenging weather conditions. Their commitment is unquestionable, but they also need to look after themselves. After a long and demanding spring, the respite of summer has not materialised, and fatigue is becoming a real concern on farms”, said Mr O’Brien.

The ICMSA Committee chairperson said that the association had recently met with Age Action Ireland to discuss among other things - the high proportion of farm fatalities involving older farmers.

"Obviously there’s an important place for retired farmers to remain active on farms, sharing their experience and continuing to contribute. But first and foremost, farms must be safe and secure workplac-

ICMSA – “Frightening surge” in farm-related accidents and tragedies es. Agriculture is a workplace, and we must always remember that."

He noted that agriculture continues to have one of the highest workplace fatality rates in the country: “There were 25 confirmed farm fatalities in 2025, accounting for almost 40% of all workplacerelated fatalities in Ireland.

Those figures are deeply concerning and underline why safety must remain a priority every single day."

Mr O'Brien encouraged farmers to avail of the financial supports available to improve safety on their farms.

"There is a 60% grant available under TAMS for farm

safety. There’s also a scheme for PTO shaft covers, 60% grant aid subject to a maximum eligible cost of €100 per cover for up to four covers. In addition, the Accelerated Capital Allowances (ACA) Scheme allows farmers to write off 50% of the cost of eligible farm safety and adaptive equipment each year over a twoyear period. I fully appreciate that, for some farmers, simply putting food on the table for their families is the immediate priority. However, no matter how difficult things become, we cannot allow farm safety to slip. No job on the farm is so urgent that it cannot be done safely."

Update on Ferrymountgarret Bridge restoration works Locals in the area will be delighted to see the Ferrymountgarret Bridge emerge from its cocoon with repaired steel works and painting complete above deck. The removal of scaffolding has commenced, and the installation of waterproofing will take place next week followed by road surface reinstatement. Seeing the steelwork in all its glory is, for many, like welcoming back an old friend.

As of today’s date works are on target to reopen the bridge to traffic on August the 28th. There will be a traffic management system in place after the 28th of August until all remaining works are completed for approximately 1 month.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Finding joy in the creative process Last week, Kilkenny and its surroundings overflowed with creativity during Arts Week. There was so much to see and do, with creative energy flowing in every direction. It is a wonderful annual event for both artists and the public, and it is deeply inspiring to see so many different forms of creative work on display.

Whenever I look at a creative work, I am aware that many steps are taken before the finished piece finally emerges into the world.

Because I make things myself, I have some personal insight into the creative process and the steps I take to reach an end result, one that is often very different from what I first imagined.

I would never describe myself as an artist. I have no formal training in any particular genre, but I have been making all manner of things since childhood, so

perhaps craftsperson is a better word. Like all children, I had an instinctive ability to create from bits of fabric, wood, stones, shells or whatever was available. I have always recycled, upcycled, repurposed and repaired as long as I can recall and love to create beauty out of otherwise discarded objects.

Many years ago, I started to work with mosaic tiles and had inner visions of creating beautiful tabletops, so I had to find table legs! I used to haunt car boot sales and scour Done Deal. I sought out Singer sewing machine bases and cast or wrought iron legs, most of which were extremely rusty and needed much preparation with wire brushes and many coats of metal paint. I paid local welders to make me steel tops, some round, square or rectangular.

All this physical preparation is a satisfying process and

comes long before any thoughts of design or colour are entertained. I never use broken crockery; instead, I choose tiles of the same depth to create a smooth, even surface. I favour brightly coloured Spanish or Italian tiles, cutting each one by hand with a small cutter and shaping it with a snipper. All this is very time-consuming.

What often absorbs me for hours, or even days, is planning the colour combinations and shapes of the cut tiles. I can pace around, laying out different possibilities until I intuit what feels exactly right.

The next thing I do is glue each tile individually on the tabletop with special adhesive. When I’m in full creative mode, I often work in silence and fall into what is called “Flow state” where time disappears and the feeling of wellbeing is enhanced. I have often been

known to lose track of time and suddenly realise that hours have passed and the sun is rising!

After the gluing phase there is a waiting period of a couple of days to ensure that every tile is properly stuck.

Then comes the grouting. For me, this needs to be done

“Making something beautiful can nourish the heart within

outdoors as it’s very messy.

The grout can set quickly so speed is of the essence and once it’s set the polishing starts… layer upon layer of grout needs to be removed with a damp cloth until it’s just in the spaces between the tiles and no excess remains on the surface, which needs to be completely smooth.

I use different feather dusters and cloths for polishing; this is the thrilling stage when the whole piece comes together and begins to shine. I can then stand back and look at the finished tabletop and marvel at its existence, because it did not exist before. It has emerged out of the materials and my mind! It’s arrived in a new and beautiful form. It has been revived from its wornout state into something beautiful and joyful to behold.

For me, this is a metaphor.

Many people are worn down

by life, and with the right help and support, we can all be restored – no longer merely surviving, but thriving.

Creating beauty is joyful, and it brings joy to those who see it. For me, it’s a labour of love and part of my meditation practice. The true privilege lies in the experience of the process itself, the feelings and the satisfaction. When you realise all the steps that are needed to create something beautiful, you have a deeper appreciation of it, and how can you ever put a price on such a unique thing? What’s the definition of “value” or “worth”?

The inner process is priceless. Focusing quietly on an activity nourishes both mind and body, reminding us that we are all creators at heart.

You can see my tables in “Unwind Café”, Thomastown. www.judithashton.com

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Thomastown festival

Thomastown festival hits all the right notes Photos jbsphotoskilkenny There was wonderful art on display around Thomastown, thanks to the excellent work of 'Thomastown Creative Arts Festival (TCAF). It was also good to note a production of The Quiet Land by Lake Productions over a two night period. ( review to follow) The festival was formally opened by Senator Malcolm Noonan in the beautiful surroundings of the Watergarden where he spoke of the key factors that make up a vibrant town like Thomastown. “Certainly when we look to the town’s medieval and Norman heritage, townsfolk can be proud that much of this heritage is retained and respected and forms the backdrop of this festival. It is however the people who down the centuries and even in recent years who found a home here, that make this place vibrant. Culture is such a vital part of the workings of a town and Thomastown is steeped in it. It is this unique backdrop of a compact heritage town that will take visitors on a tour as they absorb the creativity of TCAF.”, said Malcolm. The Senator said that the new library was a welcome addition to the trail and will serve the community well for decades to come just as it’s predecessor did. Senator Noonan also paid tribute to the late Cat Dowling; performer, composer and musician from Kilkenny whose dad Dick Dowling had served the people of Kilkenny. He said that Cat was a real innovator who garnered respect across the music scene in Ireland and internationally.

Reports from the Thomastown area said that the festival was hugely successful.

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Thomastown festival

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: NEWS, LAUNCHES OR EVENTS ACROSS HEALTH & BEAUTY? CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Health & Beauty

Stress signs we often miss - and simple ways to reset

Alena Darmel

A better nighttime skin routine SKINCARE HACK

Miriam Alonso

HEALTH Stress doesn’t always announce itself with a dramatic breakdown. More often, it slips into everyday life as poor sleep, a short temper or the feeling that even small jobs are becoming difficult.

The HSE describes stress as a normal response to pressure, but when it continues for too long it can affect how we think, feel and behave.

Common signs include racing thoughts, difficulty switching off, poor concentration and feeling overwhelmed.

One of the easiest signs to overlook is irritability. Snap-

ping at family members, feeling impatient in traffic or becoming annoyed by ordinary noise may be blamed on tiredness, when stress could be playing a part.

Forgetfulness is another warning sign. Missing appointments, losing keys or reading the same email several times can happen when the mind is overloaded. Changes in sleep and appetite, withdrawing from people, headaches and tense shoulders can also be linked to stress.

The aim is not to remove every source of pressure overnight. A useful reset can begin with one small action.

First, stop and ask what is actually causing the strain.

Writing down your worries can help separate problems you can tackle from situations outside your control.

Next, choose one manageable task. Reply to one email, make one appointment or clear one small surface instead of trying to fix everything at once. The HSE recommends breaking larger jobs into smaller steps and focusing on what you can control.

Movement can also help. A short walk, some stretching or a few minutes outside may interrupt the cycle of sitting

and worrying. Slow breathing or a brief relaxation exercise can help calm the body when tension is building.

Finally, talk to someone.

Stress often feels heavier when it’s kept private, while speaking to a trusted friend or family member can make the situation clearer.

If stress is persistent, affecting daily life or becoming difficult to manage, contact your GP or another health professional. Chest pain, breathing difficulty or other sudden physical symptoms should not automatically be put down to stress - seek medical advice.

An evening routine is your chance to remove the day and give skin a comfortable start overnight. Take off makeup and sunscreen using a cleansing balm, oil or micellar water before a gentle face wash. This double cleanse is useful after wearing long lasting makeup, but it may be unnecessary on bare faced days.

Pat rather than rub your skin dry, then apply any treatment product you already tolerate. Retinoids, exfoliating acids and strong spot treatments should not all be introduced together.

Finish with a moisturiser that leaves your skin soft, not greasy or tight. Keep lip balm beside the bed and use hand cream after washing. Change pillowcases regularly, especially if you use hair products at night. Most importantly, resist picking at blemishes in the mirror. A soothing routine can become a useful signal that the busy part of the day is over and it is time to rest.

Nail your home manicure BEAUTY Kaboompics

Walking is still the simplest fitness habit FITNESS Sometimes fitness advice can make getting active sound complicated. There are training plans, specialist equipment and endless arguments about the “best” type of exercise.

Walking remains much simpler. It’s free, requires no gym membership and can usually be fitted around everyday life.

A brisk walk raises the heart rate, builds stamina and supports heart health. The NHS says even a brisk 10-minute daily walk has health benefits and counts towards the recommended weekly total for physical activity.

Walking may also help with mood, sleep and stress. According to the HSE, regular physical activity can improve energy levels, support relaxation and reduce stress.

The key word is regular. One long walk at the weekend is useful, but shorter walks repeated throughout the week

Andrea Piacquadio

may be easier to maintain.

Start with a distance that feels manageable. That could mean walking around the block, getting off the bus one stop earlier or taking a 10-minute walk after lunch. Once it feels comfortable, gradually add a little more time or increase the

pace.

A brisk pace does not mean racing. You should feel warmer and breathe a little faster while still being able to hold a conversation.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are usually all that’s needed.

On darker evenings, wear something reflective and choose well-lit routes.

Anyone who has been inactive for a long time, or has a medical condition or concerns about exercise, should speak to their GP before making major changes.

Doing a home manicure is mostly about preparation and patience. Remove old polish, wash your hands and shape nails gently with a file, moving in one direction to reduce splitting.

Soak fingertips briefly in warm water, then push cuticles back softly with a wooden stick. Avoid cutting living cuticle skin, which helps protect the nail from infection. Wipe nails clean and apply a thin base coat. Follow with two light layers of colour, allowing each one to dry before the next. Thick coats may look faster, but they smudge easily and take much longer to set. Finish with a top coat and tidy edges using a small brush dipped in remover. Apply hand cream and cuticle oil once the polish is fully dry. Give nails breaks if they become stained or brittle. Clean tools after use and never share clippers without disinfecting them. Small, careful steps create a polished result.

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Opinion Advertising the pony auction

Art for all and hectic bidding!

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

If you wish to see a first-rate community art project in action, just drop into St. Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall and meet the Brushstrokes group.

I called last week to view its exhibition and wasn’t disappointed. Local artist Graham Carew mentors the group.

His stunning Cherry Blossom mural on the gable end of the community hall is an apt introduction to both his own work and the wonderful people he has shepherded for the past two years along a road of creative self-discovery.

When I entered the hall, the impeccably arranged works made an instant impression.

Arrayed tastefully throughout the spacious interior was achievement writ large…a wealth of styles and themes… still life, wildlife, farm life, pub life, and hints of spiritual life.

Abstract and semi-abstract… landscapes, seascapes, streetscapes, and perceptions of inner space.

Artist Jenny Cooke, a supervisor at the Neighbourhood Hall, spoke highly of Graham Carew’s ability to bring out the best in each artist, as he guides and facilitates the group. Jenny emphasized that people who join can “connect through art regardless of experience or ability.”

Even those who never painted in their lives have found a happy home in the group. Over the two years, it has blossomed and grown numerically, attracting people of all ages and backgrounds.

Graham Carew believes that the hall’s special welcoming atmosphere is conducive to the flowering of creativity and hails the strong community spirit underlying all the hallbased projects.

Jenny acknowledged the importance to the group of

successful grant applications for materials and the essential backing of Siobhan O’ Brien and the Kilkenny and Carlow Educational and Training Board (KCETB) in providing tutor hours.

The works I saw in the hall covered the themes you expect to find at an art exhibition and a few more besides…a dazzling montage of perspectives, insights, and interpretations.

Oisín Kelly’s works bestowed calmness. You couldn’t but catch some of the gentle-onthe -eye tranquillity exuded by his almost ethereal seascape and the soporific, inviting form of a rustic doorway giving on to what might be a house- or maybe another dimension.

Ailbhe Fitzgerald’s work had a certain spiritual quality and

Oisin Kelly Jenny Cooke and Step ...

St canices Hall exhibition

I especially liked her Lighthouse, lashed by sea waves and the slow grind of time.

Jo Kelly’s acrylic Reflections would appeal to anyone with a yearning for, or a link to, our verdant countryside, with all of its bucolic attractions and resonances. Horses graze in a meadow speckled with yellow Horse auction at Kilkenny Courthouse

flora under a pale blue sky.

In Regulars, she recalled the halcyon days of the now fast-declining rural pub, with capped men playing cards, their stout glasses half-empty.

A cigarette nostalgically completed the scene.

Fiona Quigley by contrast had a haunting stone passageway into which a woman was about to disappear out of sight.

It reminded me of the Butter Slip but transferred to a rural setting or a time removed from our own.

Her Hare depiction would look well on the wall of any nature lover, as would Theresa Carroll’s A watchful Hare or Tom Barrett’s Jumping Fox. These pay due homage to our wildlife heritage, apart from their shining artistic merit.

Marianne Kelly’s Black and White appeared to hint at human equality and diversity.

The silhouette of a woman’s head was a mix of black and white, though we didn’t see her features and were kept guessing. Mish Mash was a kaleidoscope of colour and a celebration of life itself, perhaps the cheeriest work in the exhibition.

Other artists in the group

include Agnes Hickey, Eamon Downes, Josephine Kelly, Grainne Quigley Lambert, and Paul Mahony. Paul’s breathtaking drawings were a big talking point among visitors.

I was about to inspect more exhibits when a hush descended on the hall. All turned to welcome the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Joe Malone, whose silver chain of office twinkled in a shaft of golden sunlight.

After a quick briefing on the exhibition, he cast his politically wizened gaze around the hall, taking in the display of talent. He said he felt privileged to be among the artists and their work. He commended the exhibits and the group’s inclusive, confidence-building ethos. He opined that any one of the works displayed would make an ideal gift.

The hall basked in the glow of this tribute, coming as it did from a respected civic leader.

As I bid them goodbye the artists were planning, or contemplating, their next creative ventures and you couldn’t but be moved by the talent and top-class mentoring exemplified by the Brushstrokes group.

In Callan I viewed the Bridge Art exhibition at the Macra Hall. The eight-person group meets on Wednesday evenings at the Droichead Building in West Street and travel to outdoor venues in summer to paint.

They’ve exhibited at Callan Library and Kilkenny’s Mayfair and the art market at the Mayor’s Walk in the City.

Artist Paddy Cunningham greeted me at the Marca Hall and showed me his portrait of Glen Hansard, the Irish singersongwriter who died tragically earlier this month.

A painting that immediately caught my attention when I entered the hall was Laima Bujack’s In Between, which has an angelic figure sprouting gracefully out of the ground towards the heavens, from tree-like roots.

Elsewhere in Callan I viewed an exhibit in the Green House window gallery in Lower Bridge Street that, at first sight, also hinted at the supernatural.

Threshold, an installation by artist Brigid Teehan was locally dubbed the Ghost in the Window. In appearance, it reminded me of those ectoplasmic forms that manifest at a séance. On deeper reflection, a range of meanings filtered through, to tease enquiring minds.

The artist herself alluded to the influence of what she called the “permaculture idea that edges, where different worlds meet, are places of growth and possibility.”

Threshold by Brigid Teehan

Whatever one’s opinion of the work, you couldn’t but be touched by its macabre ambience in the Green House window, with the windows of houses on the opposite side of Bridge Street eerily reflected in the glass.

For me it hinted at the notion of crucial life situations that can go either way: choices and turning points we encounter on what Macbeth dubbed “this bank and shoal of time.”

Speaking of time, Sceal Mór Theatre pulled off a riveting step back to 19th century Ireland with its recreation of a pony auction in front of the Court House building in Parliament Street, similar to one held at the same location in1899.

McCreery Brothers, auctioneers, conducted that auction.

The reenactment celebrated the 150th anniversary of McCreery & Sons, one of the oldest auctioning firms in Ireland, and still going strong.

The drama group did a sterling job, recreating not just a typical 19th century auctioneering scenario with period costumes, horse harnesses, and other relevant paraphernalia; but managing also to rustle up the excitable, tension-fraught atmosphere: The throng of onlookers that filled the street and lined the courthouse steps and gallery joined in the ferocious bidding.

You felt the pull of the past as the players ramped up the frenzy and suspense. Present day Kilkenny melted away and a different era prevailed for twenty-five minutes.

The reenactment was woven into a specially scripted drama, with themes such as greed, generosity, loyalty, moral courage, and the inequalities of Victorian society coming through as the lively cast brought a slice of Kilkenny’s heritage to life.

For me, this was a highpoint of the festival season.

At St Canices Hall exhibition L to R Jo Kelly Marianne Kelly Ollie Falsey Fiona Quigley Jenny Cooke Cathaoirleach Joe Malone

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Wild & wondrous things at Bookville Festival 2026 Bookville, a Kilkenny festival of books for families and children, celebrates its ninth year in 2026 with events from the 1st to the 8th October. Taking place in libraries across the county Bookville promises a

fabulous programme of free events for primary school children and the general public. This year, Bookville will embrace the theme of ‘Wild & Wondrous Things’ celebrating and exploring the

wild and wondrous world we live in, inviting young and old alike to discover, question, reflect, and reconnect with the environment we share.

The Bookville Festival once again features the

hugely popular activity book, which will be delivered to over 12,500 primary school children around Kilkenny county. Over the seven festival days there will be 60 workshops given by 31

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

children’s authors, illustrators, artists, musicians and entertainers, covering creative writing, comedy, music, illustration, Gaeilge, storytelling and poetry. There will also be a Bookville exhibition and a comedy show suitable for the whole family.

County Librarian, Josephine Coyne said, “Bookville continues to bring new surprises every year. In this, it’s ninth year, we will be welcoming families on board our story telling train which will tour the streets of Kilkenny City and we will be showcasing our brand new library in Thomastown with a family show by an award winning comedian.

The varied programme ensures a wide reach and engagement with more children, schools and families than ever before. The library service is delighted to be a part of this festival, inspiring local children to be involved in the world of books.”

With a focus on nature and the environment, the Bookville festival will feature many well-known children’s authors and illustrators, such as Paddy Donnelly, Eve McDonnell, Patricia Forde (former Children’s Laureate), Chris Judge, Éanna Ní Lamhna and Richie Conroy (as Gaeilge). Bookville is always proud to support our local talent and this year the programme includes workshops

by Blaise Butler, Tom Duffy, Sheila Jordan, TADA! theatre and film school, the National

Reptile Zoo, Music Generation and the Acorn Project.

Bookville is delighted to present Signals, an exhibition at the Mayfair library from 1st to 20th October. The exhibition will be self-guided for the general public, with schools required to pre-book their visits. According to Kilkenny Assistant Arts Officer Kathy Conlan, “Signals encourages us to listen more closely to the rhythms of the Atlantic Ocean and the stories it tells, inviting audiences of all ages to listen, observe and connect with the powerful natural forces that surround us. This beautiful exhibition brings us on a journey of exploration, presenting a new way to see the sea and an opportunity to reconnect with the largest part of Ireland – the Atlantic Ocean."

Bookings for all workshops will open at 10am on Wednesday 9th September and pre-booking is essential.

Places are limited, so early booking is advised. For full details of all things Bookville go to www.bookvillekilkenny. com and follow us on social media.

The Bookville Festival is a collaboration by the Kilkenny Arts Office and Kilkenny County Council Library Service and supported by Creative Ireland and the Arts Council of Ireland. The books featured are available from local Kilkenny libraries, Khans Books and the Kilkenny Book Centre.

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Kilkenny College of Beauty and Sports Therapy: Education for every stage of life Whether you are leaving school, looking for a complete career change, hoping to turn a passion into a profession, or simply looking to learn a new skill, Kilkenny College of Beauty and Sports Therapy (KCBT) believes that education should be accessible to everyone.

Based in Kilkenny, KCBT provides professional education and training in beauty, therapy and sports therapy in a welcoming and supportive environment. With courses designed for people at different stages of life and career, there really is something for everyone – from those taking their very first steps into the industry to experienced professionals looking to expand their skills and qualifications.

A key focus at KCBT is flexibility. With both full-time and part-time courses available, students can choose a pathway that works around their existing commitments, whether that means work, family or other responsibilities. The college understands that returning to education as an adult can feel daunting, which is why creating a friendly, encouraging and

inclusive learning environment is so important.

Students can train across a wide range of beauty, holistic and sports therapy disciplines, developing practical skills alongside the knowledge and professional understanding needed to work confidently within the industry. KCBT offers recognised professional qualifications, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to build a rewarding career or add valuable new skills to their existing professional portfolio.

For school leavers, KCBT provides the opportunity to enter a hands-on, creative and rewarding industry. For adults, it can offer the chance to retrain, change direction or finally pursue a career they have always dreamed of.

For existing therapists and beauty professionals, further training can open the door to new treatments, additional qualifications and exciting career opportunities.

The college is passionate about helping students develop not only their technical abilities but also the confidence to succeed professionally. Practical experience, professional standards, client

care and industry knowledge all form an important part of the learning journey.

At KCBT, the belief is simple: it is never too early, or too late, to learn something new. Education can be the first step towards a completely new career, a way to develop an existing passion, an opportunity to upskill, or simply a chance to invest in yourself.

With flexible study options, a broad range of courses and a supportive learning environment, Kilkenny College of Beauty and Sports Therapy is proud to help students of all ages take their next step – whatever that step may be."

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

NLN Kilkenny building confidence and brighter futures

In the heart of Kilkenny City, National Learning Network (NLN) at Regent House is a place where learners are supported to grow, build confidence, and plan their future. Whether your goal is employment, further training, or simply developing personal and social skills, NLN Kilkenny offers an

inclusive and supportive environment that helps people get to where they want to be.

What makes NLN different is its personalised approach.

This isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience - every learner at NLN Kilkenny has a personalised training plan, developed with the support of instructors, a psycholo-

gist, and a rehabilitation officer. Our small, welcoming groups ensure every student is heard, supported, and encouraged to shine.

The centre runs three key training programmes - Access, which supports students at QQI Levels 2 and 3, Career Paths, a QQI Level 4 course offering a strong

foundation for future study or employment and Evolve, a programme that helps students bridge and transition into further education or employment.

Career Paths (formerly known as Pathways to Employment) is particularly suited to those who are ready to explore job opportuni-

ties or progress to further education. Students can work toward a Level 4 Major Award in General Learning (4M2010), while developing key skills in Communications, Functional Maths, Personal Effectiveness, IT, and Tourism & Trade. Work placements are a central part of the programme, giving students real-world experience and valuable insights into the world of work.

As one student shared, “The course has helped me in real life – not just with my confidence, but with finding my place and making new friends.” Others have used the programme as a stepping stone to college, apprenticeships, or jobs in their local community.

At NLN Kilkenny, we believe learning should be flexible, supportive, and empowering. Our goal is simple: to help every learner achieve

their personal best, whatever that may look like.

We are hosting an open evening on Thursday 27th August 2026, inviting the community to experience first-hand the inclusive environment of NLN Kilkenny.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet students and staff, learn more about our training programmes, and see the pathways NLN provides to further education, apprenticeships, and employment.

If you or someone you know is looking for a supportive and practical way to take the next step - whether that’s into work, further education, or simply building confidence NLN Kilkenny is here to help.

Contact us at Regent House by emailing kilkenny@nln. ie or visit www.nln.ie to find out more about how our programmes can support your journey forward.

lished since 2000, it continues to be a much sought after and treasured platform for writers to expose their work

to the public. This year fifteen poems were selected for publication by Irish poet Jane Robinson. The Broadsheet was beautifully illustrated by local designer and illustrator Tim Harper of Wax Botanical.

The Poetry Broadsheet will be available in all Kilkenny Libraries and Butler Gallery from August 19th.

Poets selected for publication include: Orla Hennessy, Willie-Joe Meally, Gemma Aloisi, John Anderson, Noel Howley, Nora Brennan, Carmel Hogan, Breda Barrett, Janis Woodgate, Frances Moore, Carmel McCluskey, Róisin Power Hackett, Anne Mc Darby Beck, Cormac Leahy, Catherine Cronin.

Jane Robinson’s collections, Journey to the Sleeping Whale (Salmon, 2018) and Island and Atoll (Salmon, 2023), as well as other poems and essays, reflect her deep ecological awareness.

With a doctorate in Biology from Caltech, Jane is also a recipient of the Shine-Strong and Red Line Book Festival Poetry Awards, as well as the Strokestown International Poetry Prize. Several of her poems have been set to music. Some recent work is published in Archipelago, Howl, Cold Mountain Review, Poetry Ireland Review and The Stinging Fly. Jane lives in Dublin and enjoys leading poetry workshops outdoors where writers might feel the weather on their skin and encounter native wild plants and animals.

Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet 2026 The Kilkenny County Council Arts Office officially launched the 26th edition of the Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet

during the Kilkenny Arts Festival on the 13th August 2026 in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle. It was successfully

launched by Kilkenny Arts Festival Poet in Residence, Annemarie Ní Churreáin and Broadsheet editor Jane

Robinson.

The aim of the publication is to give local writers a platform for their work. Being pub-

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Kathryn Ashill

By Kathryn Ashill Open daily from Thursday to Saturday, 11.30am to 5.30pm until Saturday 29 August The Tea Houses Bateman Quay Kilkenny Kath’s House is Burning!

Kath’s House is Burning! Send the Engines! Send the Engines!

Burning Down the House, My House is an exhibition that explores Welsh artist Kathryn Ashill’s recent experiences of having a serious house fire.

Ashill attempts to look at fire as a common experience, as a cultural experience and as a danger, while reflecting on our ability to respond to a crisis. Humour and playfulness is central in this new body of work as a way to navigate traumatic events. Animation and colour are utilised in this installation as a way to bring the memory of a house fire to life. Ashill undertook a residency at the Tea Houses in spring 2026 and used this time to research local histories of fire in the medieval city of Kilkenny.

Kathryn Ashill is an artist, performer and drag king based in Barry, South Wales.

Their practice combines drag, performance, video and installation. Their work embraces DIY aesthetics, amateurism and theatrically to present their personal experiences. Weaving together narratives, histories and place, their work traces the tensions between disabled, queer and working class experiences and rigid institutional structures. Ashill holds a PhD from the University of Manchester which explored interspecies co-working relationships.

They were selected as one of the inaugural artists on the Future Wales Fellowship in 2022 – 2023. Their work has been presented across Wales, the UK, USA and Europe.

–Curated by Rachel Botha.

Supported by Arts Council of Wales, Wales Arts International, Kilkenny Arts Office, Kilkenny County Council, Arts Council, Ireland.

The Tea Houses are situated by the River Nore in Kilkenny city centre and have been acquired by Kilkenny Arts Office to host an art programme that encourages a sense of community and active citizenship.

Burning Down the House, My House

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: NEWS, LAUNCHES OR EVENTS ACROSS HOMES & GARDENS? CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Homes & Gardens

Shelving that looks built-in HOME HACK Pvproductions

You don’t always need bespoke joinery to get a fitted look. With a bit of planning, ready-made shelves can feel as though they were designed for the room.

Start by measuring the wall properly, taking sockets, switches, doors and curtains into account. Think about what you want to store too, as shelves need enough depth to be useful without sticking too far into the room.

For a more built-in effect, line the top shelf up with a nearby door frame or another feature already in the space, and keep the gaps between shelves even.

Painting the shelves and brackets the same colour as the wall helps them blend in, while matching nearby woodwork gives a slightly stronger look. Concealed fixings can work well too, provided they are suitable for the wall and the weight being carried.

Finally, don’t overcrowd them. A mix of books, pictures and useful storage, with a little space between, will feel much more organised.

A pollinator friendly border GARDEN HACK Wirestock

When should you call a tree surgeon?

GARDEN Trees can be one of the best features in a garden, providing shade, privacy and character. But when they become damaged, overgrown or unsafe, it’simportant to know when a job is beyond the reach of ordinary pruning.

A qualified tree surgeon should be called in if a tree has large dead branches, visible cracks in the trunk or limbs, or signs that it has started to lean unexpectedly.

These can all point to structural problems, particularly

after strong winds or heavy rain.

Hanging branches, split limbs or trees that have partially uprooted can be extremely dangerous, even if they still appear stable.

Avoid trying to tackle large damaged branches yourself, especially where ladders, chainsaws or overhead power lines are involved.

Fungal growth around the base, cavities in the trunk, peeling bark or large areas of dieback may indicate that a tree is weakening from the inside. A tree surgeon can

assess whether the problem can be managed through pruning or whether the tree may eventually need to be removed.

If branches are growing over a roof, blocking light, rubbing against buildings or stretching towards neighbouring properties, professional pruning can help keep the tree healthy while bringing it back under control.

It’s worth getting advice before removing a mature tree altogether. In many cases, selective pruning, crown reduction or the removal of

Give your room a lift INTERIORS

A pollinator friendly border can still look colourful and well planned, while giving bees and other insects a useful source of food throughout the year.

The key is to choose a mix of plants that flower at different times. Crocuses, hellebores and lungwort are useful early in the season, followed by summer favourites such as lavender, catmint and salvias. Asters, sedums and ivy can then help carry things into autumn.

Try planting in small groups rather than dotting single plants around the border, as larger patches are easier for pollinators to find. Simple, open flowers are usually a better choice than heavily doubled blooms.

A shallow dish of water with a few pebbles can provide a handy drinking spot, while hollow stems and small patches of bare soil can offer shelter.

Avoid spraying pesticides when plants are in flower, and don’t be too quick to tidy everything away. Leaving some seedheads standing adds winter interest and gives birds a useful food source too.

Giving a room a fresh new look doesn’t have to mean replacing everything in sight.

According to Ann Marie Henderson of The Snug Room, some of the most effective changes are often the simplest - and many begin with things you already own.

Her first suggestion is to “shop your home”. Start by decluttering and removing pieces that no longer work in the space, while keeping favourite and meaningful items. Simply editing what is on display can make a room feel calmer and more thought-out.

If you want to make a slightly bigger change without undertaking a full makeover, Ann Marie suggests introducing beading or moulding to add architectural interest. Updat-

ing woodwork or doors can also give a room a lift, whether by choosing a darker shade or painting them the same colour as the walls.

Soft furnishings are another easy way to transform the mood of a space. Cushions and throws can introduce new colours, textures and patterns, while a well-sized rug can help pull a whole room together. “A few well-chosen pieces often have more impact than lots of accessories,” she advises.

Lighting can be just as transformative. A new lampshade, table lamp or floor lamp can change the atmosphere immediately, particularly when softer bulbs are used. For a warm, cosy feel, Ann Marie recommends lighting at 2,700 kelvin or below to create a relaxed glow.

Artwork shouldn’t be over-

Quang Nguyen Vinh

damaged branches may solve the problem without losing the tree.

Some trees respond better to pruning at particular times of year, while others can be more vulnerable to disease if cut at the wrong time.

For smaller jobs, such as trimming light growth or removing thin, reachable branches, a careful gardener may be able to manage safely.

But once the work involves height, heavy limbs or any doubt about the stability of the tree, it’s time to bring in a professional.

Mrsiraphol

looked either. A striking piece can bring personality, colour and a focal point to a room, but before buying something new, try moving existing artwork to a different wall or grouping pieces in a new way.

For anyone working with a limited budget, Ann Marie recommends concentrating spending where it will be most noticeable.

“Prioritise paint, lighting, a good-sized rug and artwork,” she says. “These create the biggest transformation.”

The finishing touches can then come through cushions and throws. With a little creativity and some thoughtful rearranging, even a familiar room can feel renewed without starting again from scratch. thesnugroom.ie

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Food & Drink

Courgette, Tomato & Cheddar Tart

Azerbaijan_stockers

RECIPE

The butcher’s perfect burger FOOD

This easy savoury tart is a great way to make the most of courgettes and tomatoes when they are in season. Crisp pastry, mature Cheddar and plenty of fresh vegetables make it ideal for a light lunch, picnic or simple summer supper. Serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad.

Serves 4–6 Ingredients • 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry • 2 medium courgettes • 3 ripe tomatoes • 150g mature Cheddar, grated • 2 tbsp cream cheese or crème fraîche • 1 tsp Dijon mustard • 1 small garlic clove, crushed • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp dried oregano or a few fresh thyme leaves • 1 egg, beaten • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • A handful of fresh basil leaves, to serve Method • Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/Gas 6 and line a large baking tray with baking paper.

• Unroll the puff pastry onto the prepared tray. Using a sharp knife, lightly score a border about 2cm in from the edge, taking care not to cut right through the pastry. Prick the centre all over with a fork.

• Mix the cream cheese or crème fraîche with the mustard and crushed garlic, then spread it over the centre of the pastry, staying inside the border. Scatter over around two-thirds of the grated Cheddar.

• Slice the courgettes and tomatoes fairly thinly. Arrange them over the cheese, slightly overlapping the slices as you go.

Drizzle with the olive oil and season with salt, pepper and oregano or thyme.

• Sprinkle over the remaining Cheddar. Brush the pastry border with beaten egg to help it turn golden and crisp.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden and the vegetables are tender. If the tomatoes release a little liquid during cooking, simply leave the tart to stand for five minutes before slicing.

• Finish with a few fresh basil leaves and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tip: Try adding a handful of sliced red onion before baking, or swap some of the Cheddar for goat’s cheese or feta for a sharper flavour. The tart is also a handy way to use up any extra summer vegetables you have in the fridge.

When it comes to making the perfect burger, Kilkenny artisan butcher Jonathan Brown says the quality of the beef is what matters most.

“For me, it’s all about quality beef, the right fat content and keeping things simple,” says Jonathan of Grogan and Brown. “A great burger should taste of beef first and foremost, with a juicy texture and a nice caramelised crust.”

Ahead of National Burger Day on Thursday, August 27, Jonathan says one of the most important considerations is fat content.

“Fat is essential. I’d aim for around 20 per cent fat, as that’s what gives a burger its

flavour and juiciness. Lean burgers often end up dry, no matter how carefully they’re cooked.”

The cut of beef also makes a difference. “We use a blend rather than a single cut. Chuck is an excellent base, but combining different cuts gives a better balance of flavour, texture and juiciness.”

Once it comes to shaping the patties, less is more.

“Handle the meat as little as possible. Overworking it makes the burger dense,” he says, adding that burgers should never be pressed down while cooking to avoid losing the meaty juiciness.

For seasoning, Jonathan recommends good-quality salt and freshly ground black pep-

per, added just before cooking.

A very hot cast-iron pan or barbecue will help create the all-important crust.

“Get a good crust on the outside, cook it through properly, then let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the juices stay in the burger.”

While smash burgers have become increasingly popular, Jonathan still prefers a traditional thicker burger.

“A smash burger gives fantastic caramelisation and crispy edges, while a thicker burger delivers a juicier, meatier bite.”

The bun and toppings deserve attention too. “The bun should be soft enough to bite through but sturdy enough to hold everything together,” Jonathan says. Mature Cheddar,

crisp lettuce, tomato, onion and a quality burger sauce are hard to beat, but “the toppings should complement the beef, not overpower it”.

Common mistakes include using beef that is too lean, overcrowding the pan, pressing burgers while they cook and piling on too many toppings.

His perfect National Burger Day creation? A 6oz beef burger cooked over charcoal with mature Irish Cheddar, smoked streaky bacon, caramelised onions, lettuce, tomato and homemade burger sauce in a lightly toasted brioche bun.

“Sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.” groganandbrownbutchers.com

Oat cuisine: Kilkenny’s link to plant milk boom FOOD PRODUCER Plant-based milks are now a regular part of the weekly shop for many, with oat, soy, almond and coconut drinks sitting alongside traditional dairy in supermarkets and cafés.

World Plant Milk Day takes place tomorrow, August 22, and for Kilkenny there is a nice local link to mark the occasion.

When Avonmore launched its Oat Drink in 2023, parent company Tirlán highlighted North Kilkenny farmer Robert Tobin as one of the growers supplying oats for its Irish oat range.

Robert farms with his father, Paddy, around Johnstown. At the time, Tirlán said the family was growing about 40 acres of

organic oats for the company, as well as crops including organic carrots, malting barley and red clover.

For the Tobin family, it meant seeing something grown on their own farm make its way onto supermarket shelves around the country.

It was also something a little different for Avonmore, a name most people would traditionally associate with dairy.

Tirlán said the move into oat drinks was creating another outlet for Irish growers, using oats grown on family farms around Ireland.

Avonmore still promotes its Oat Drink Barista as being made with oats grown on Irish family farms. While it’s designed with coffee in mind, oat drinks can also be poured

Magnific

over cereal, added to smoothies, used in baking or simply enjoyed cold.

For many of us, choosing a plant-based drink doesn’t

mean giving up dairy altogether. It’s just another option in the fridge, whether for dietary reasons, taste or just a change.

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What’s On

Your picks for this week TOP SHOWS, BOOKS, MUSIC, GAMES AND MORE - OUR QUICK GUIDE TO WHAT’S WORTH YOUR TIME THIS WEEK What to watch: Set in a nearfuture New York where single people are allowed to make love on just one night of the year, One Night Only follows Allie and Owen, two strangers looking for something more meaningful. Monica Barbaro and Callum Turner lead Will Gluck’s offbeat romantic comedy, which mixes an outrageous premise with a more familiar search for connection. Maya Hawke, Molly Ringwald and LeVar Burton also feature in the cast.

Back into The Further MOVIE There is more trouble waiting in The Further as the Insidious series returns with its sixth film, Insidious: Out of the Further, opening in cinemas today, Friday, August 21.

This time the story moves away from the Lambert family and centres on Gemma, a young mother played by Amelia Eve. Gemma is raising her daughter in the house where she grew up when she discovers that she can enter

The Further, the dark realm of lost souls that has been at the centre of the series from the beginning.

That would be bad enough, but Gemma soon realises her ability works both ways. She can not only enter The Further, she can bring things back with her. Once the demons there understand what she can do, the danger is no longer confined to another world.

Lin Shaye returns as Elise Rainier, the psychic medium who has been one of the most

familiar faces in the Insidious films. Although Elise’s story has taken some unusual turns over the years, her connection to The Further means there is still a place for her as the series introduces a new family and a new threat.

The cast also includes Brandon Perea, Maisie RichardsonSellers, Sam Spruell, Island Austin and Laura Gordon.

Sam Spruell plays Cyrus, a new demonic figure linked to the trouble surrounding Gemma. Joseph Bishara returns to

Cry Before Dawn

BALLYKEEFE AMPHITHEARE | SAT, AUG 22 | 8PM

Trevor McGrath

MUSIC Cry Before Dawn bring their powerful live show to Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre tomorrow night (Saturday).

Formed in Wexford in 1982, the band built their name by mixing guitar-driven rock with traditional Irish pipes and

whistles, creating a sound that was instantly recognisable.

That blend helped set them apart and brought them major success through the late 1980s, including two double platinum-selling albums and a string of national awards. They were named Best Newcomer in 1987 and Best Irish Group

in 1989, while their live reputation saw them build a loyal following at home and abroad.

Cry Before Dawn toured extensively across Ireland, the UK and the USA, and twice sold out Ireland’s National Stadium. In recent years, the band have found a new wave of momentum. Since returning

score the film, continuing his work across the franchise.

Behind the camera is Jacob Chase, who directs from his own screenplay and shares story credit with David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick. Chase previously directed the horror film Come Play, and here he takes over a series that has changed directors several times while keeping its basic idea intact: ordinary people finding themselves dangerously close to a world they don’t fully understand. to regular touring in 2023, they have continued to pack out venues around the country, including two nights at the Wexford Spiegeltent and three nights at Whelan’s Main Venue in Dublin.

They have also made a strong return to the festival circuit, with appearances at All Together Now, Forest Fest and Night & Day reminding audiences why they remain such a popular live act.

Cry Before Dawn’s return hasn’t been built on nostalgia alone. In August 2025, the band released Open Water, their first vinyl release since 1989. The six-track EP was produced by Grammy-nominated Chris O’Brien and Graham Murphy at The Production Suite in Dublin. It debuted at number one in the Official Irish Independent Album Chart and reached number two in the overall Official Irish Album Chart.

Gates open at 6.30pm, with the show starting at 8pm. Tickets are €30 plus booking fee.

What to read: Donal Ryan’s Where Are the Kings follows 11-year-old Jack after his mother’s death turns his life upside down. Thrown into the care of a large, complicated family he barely knows, Jack is left with questions no one seems willing to answer. Warm, funny and deeply human, Ryan’s new novel explores grief, growing up, family secrets and the strange ways people try to protect those they love from themselves and others.

What to stream: Sunny Sandler leads Netflix’s coming-of-age dramedy Don’t Say Good Luck as Sophie Birenbaum, a highschool student preparing for the lead role in her school musical when serious trouble at home changes everything. Directed

by Julia Hart, the film mixes humour and heart as Sophie tries to balance teenage life, family pressures and the stage. Melanie Lynskey, Max Greenfield, Stephanie Beatriz, Bebe Neuwirth and Steve Buscemi also star in key roles.

What to listen to: Swedish singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson, known as The Tallest Man on Earth, plays St Canice’s Cathedral, Kilkenny, on Saturday, August 29 at 8pm. Matsson has released seven studio albums and is known for acoustic folk songs built around his distinctive voice and guitar playing.

His Kilkenny appearance brings him to one of the city’s most atmospheric venues for an evening of songs from across his career, including material from recent releases.

What to play: Mortal Shell II returns to Cold Symmetry’s dark action-RPG world with a larger, interconnected setting, brutal combat and more freedom to explore. Players once again inhabit different warrior Shells, each offering their own strengths and fighting style, while taking on grotesque enemies and powerful bosses. The sequel launched on August 20 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, with no knowledge of the first game required to get started.

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA CLUB LOTTO We have a winner, congratulations to Jason Barcoe.

He’s our €2200 LOTTO winner for 11th August. The lucky numbers were 9, 17 and 24. Well done Jason Barcoe.

U16 HURLING The Clara U16s went down to neighbours Barrow Rangers last in Clara. This was a commendable display from the Paulstown outfit who found themselves 8 points down early on and subsequently trailed by 7 points on two separate occasions.

But they refused to throw in the towel and were rewarded for their perseverance.

After the Rangers had opened the scoring Clara hit back with points from Robert Coogan, Jake Brett and Aaron Carrigan before James McDonald found the net. Paulstown then hit their first goal, but Aaron Carrigan and Ger Cody replied with points.

Barrow Rangers then hit for a goal, but Jack Byrne scored an immediate point. Ger Cody negated another Paulstown point and from there to the break 1-1 from Jake Brett and two placed ball efforts from Jack Byrne ensured that Clara took a 3-10 to 2-7 lead to the dressing room.

The Rangers quickly whittled that lead back with 1-1 early in the second half but two points from Aaron Carrigan and Rory Treacy were followed by a goal from Jake Brett and Clara were 7 clear again. But a 2-3 scoring burst from the Paulstown men was only interrupted by a Rory Treacy point to leave the Paulstown/Goresbridge outfit one to the good. From there to the end each side converted two frees each and Barrow Rangers hung on for the narrowest of wins.

Team - Ciaran Gibbons, Michael O Keeffe, Liam Treacy, Ollie Butler. Matthew Cooke, Sam Corr, Eddie Phelan. Rory Treacy 0-2, Jack Byrne 0-4, 0-2f, 0-1 x 65. Dara Leamy, Aaron Carrigan 1-4, 0-1f, Jake Brett 2-2. James McDonald 1-0, Robert Coogan 0-1, Ger Cody 0-2.

SENIORS WIN Clara senior hurlers grabbed their first win of the campaign on Saturday in St. John’s Park by overcoming neighbours Bennettsbridge in a bottom of the table clash. This was a game that was tight from start to finish with Bennettsbridge lamenting their 12 wides as against 7 for the Clara men. The first eight points of the game were shared with Clara scoring first each time (Conor O Shea free, Lester Ryan, Paul Cody, Martin O Connell) with the Bridge equalising each time. Then Clara scored two on the bounce through Paul Cody and Conor O Shea(free) but Bennettsbridge bounced back with a Liam Blanchfield goal and a Jamie Harkin point. Another Conor O Shea free closed the gap before Kevin Nolan pulled out two stupendous close range saves to deny the Bridge a goal. James Hughes pointed the resulting 65 and added a free to give his side a three point lead. However, breeze assisted Clara closed the half strongly to lead 1-10 to 1-8. Conor O Shea and Paul Cody scored points and Rory Glynn found the net after his brother Dara knocked down an intended pass to Lester Ryan, took the return pass and made ground before offloading to Rory. Conor O Shea added a free before the break.

Another Conor free and a point from Rory Glynn got Clara off to a fast second half start but Bennettsbridge responded with three of their own before Rory Glynn restored the two point lead. From there to the end each side scored four points apiece with Clara managing two from play through Chris Bolger and Ciarán Prendergast as well as two placed balls from Conor O Shea. The hard pressed Clara defence held up well and Jack Langton’s experience was telling as well as strong showings from Shane Staunton, Martin O Connell, Matt Kenny and David Barcoe. Harry Boyle seemed better suited to man marking duties in the corner and Philip Carrigan made a very promising championship debut. The three substitutes had a bit of energy about them.

Joe Power flicked down a lovely ball to set up a goal opportunity for Dara Glynn, Ciaran Prendergast scored the clinching point and Conor Cody looked very solid but his day was tarnished by a harsh late red card when he flicked a ball away from David Blanchfield but inadvertently caught him on the face guard afterwards. Next up for Clara is Glenmore.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Shane Staunton, Matt Kenny, Harry Boyle. Martin O Connell 0-1, David Barcoe,

Philip Carrigan. Jack Langton, Luke Lawlor. Chris Bolger 0-1, Conor O Shea 0-8, 0-6f, 0-1 x 65, Paul Cody 0-3. Lester Ryan 0-1, Rory Glynn 1-2, Dara Glynn. Subs used Ciaran Prendergast 0-1, Conor Cody, Joe Power.

STALEMATE Clara and Erin’s Own, Castlecomer played out an entertaining draw in Castlecomer on Sunday evening. Clara jumped out to a quick start and led 0-6 to 0-1 after 10 minutes. Comer pulled a couple of points back but then Tom Ryan pounced for a goal after the home side were slow to clear a ball. Unfortunately, the Comer men responded in kind on the next play and from there to the interval each side scored six points to leave Clara 1-12 to 1-9 ahead.

Clara pushed that lead out to five early in the second half, but they could never quite shake off the home team however hard they tried. A couple of the veterans began to tire and Erin’s Own crept gradually into the game. Ciarán Prendergast looked to have clinched it for Clara but soon afterwards had to leave the field with an injury. Castlecomer hit three in a row to tie the game, but Sean Carrigan edged Clara ahead again. Then with the last play of the game a free was awarded and Michael Murphy did the honours to earn a point for his side.

Team - Cian Kelly, Daniel Ryan, Zach Lawlor, Paddy Ryan. Jake Maher 0-1, Conor Cody 0-2, Philip Carrigan. Hugh Kelly, Alan Coleman. Sean Carrigan 0-3, Killian Phelan 0-2, 0-1f, Joe Connolly 0-6, 0-3f.

Ciaran Prendergast 0-2, Tim Ryan 1-1, Luke Whelan.

Subs used Luke Lawlor 0-1, Sean O Shea, Alex McDonald.

CAMOGIE Clara lost out to a never say die Tullaroan side in Clara on Sunday morning after a disappointing second half display. Tullaroan were quickest from the blocks and posted three of the game’s first four points. But then Siobhan Curtis struck for a goal and although Tullaroan answered with two points Clara now had the bit between their teeth and, with the long ball causing all kinds of problems for Tullaroan, the Clara girls hit for 1-5 to move seven points clear. The goal had come from Mary O Connell. That purple patch was based on a dominant defensive display and Clara were finding the time and space to deliver some great ball into a hungry

forward line. Crucially for Tullaroan however they scored the last two points of the half to close the score to 2-6 to 0-7 at the break.

Tullaroan’s work rate ramped up for the second half and Clara didn’t have as much time to deliver ball into their forwards. The breeze also picked up and Tullaroan scored the first three points of the new half. Keara Ryan gave Clara some respite with a pointed free, but the Tullaroan dominance continued unabated and grabbed the games next six points, 5 of them from play. The introduction of former county star Miriam Walsh at halftime had given the “Sash” girls a major boost and she was a great target for Tullaroan in the second half. Siobhán Curtis kept Clara hopes of a late smash and grab alive with a fine point, but it was Tullaroan that sealed a deserved win with a late free to emerge 0-17 to 2-8 winners.

Most of the Clara heroes were in defence for this game as Tullaroan really got on top for the second half. The form of the forwards was too patchy and sporadic to post a winning score but it’s a long year yet and form can be found with hard work.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Laoise Nolan, Rachel Whelan, Katie Ryan. Gráinne Glynn, Aisling Nolan, Claire Nolan. Caragh Brennan, Rebecca Nolan. Keara Ryan 0-3, 0-1f, Lucy Boyd, Emma Shortall 0-3. Mary O Connell 1-1, 0-1f, Siobhan Curtis 1-1, Margaret O Connell. Sub used Ónagh Fitzgerald.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS GREYHOUND RACE NIGHT O’Loughlin Gaels hold their annual fundraiser at Kilkenny Greyhound Track on Friday 21st August.

The first race is at 7.30pm. There will be a Raffle on the night. Tickets still only €10. Experience the brand new facilities at Kilkenny Greyhound Track.

Members of the club hope to call to every house in the parish selling tickets. Tickets also available at the bar in the clubhouse. All support would be welcome. Hot dogs and minerals for all the kids on the night.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated August 11th. The numbers drawn were 1, 2, 6 and 7. The bonus number was 5. Play now at www.

oloughlingaels.com The winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Ann Loy. 2. Ollie O’Driscoll c/o D O’Driscoll. 3. Francis Burke c/o D Tyrrell. 4. Peggy / Sue c/o B Murphy. 5.

Kay Kelly c/o P Cleere. 6. Liam Walsh c/o M Doran. 7.

Graham Browne c/o D O’Connell. 8. Gráinne McMillen c/o Online. 9. John Purcell c/o Online. 10. Philip Denieffe c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

COMMUNITY GAMES Best of luck to all of the St John’s athletes and relay teams who participate in the Cairn community games athletics national finals which take place in SETU Carlow on 22nd and 23rd of August.

Best of luck also to the St John’s boys Under 12 outdoor soccer team who won their Leinster final in Longford on 11th July and progress to the national outdoor Under 12 boys soccer finals in SETU on 23rd of August taking on the Sligo champions in the All Ireland semifinal. Huge thanks to their coaches Danny Quinn and Steve Allen who have put huge effort into the team over the last few months, Freebooters for the use of their facilities for training and to their sponsors Pizza Max, Fast fits, O’Reilly’s, Caesers and Fallons and Keane for their generosity.

UNDER 8’S VISIT NOWLAN PARK O’Loughlin Gaels Under 8 boys were invited to UPMC Nowlan Park last week as part of Go Games series. The boys had a tour of the gym and dressing rooms before running out onto the famous grass where they took on Mooncoin for some highly competitive games. Well done to all involved, players, parents and coaches and thank you to Kilkenny GAA for the invite.

GOLF CLASSIC O’Loughlin Gaels annual golf Classic took place last week at Kilkenny Golf Club. Over minty teams enjoyed a great day’s golfing in the fine weather. After a very close competition with a spread of only five points covering the top ten teams it was Anthony Driscoll’s team which took first place. Anthony was joined by Michael Foley and Kevin O’Driscoll.

Second place went to the Tullaroan team of John Connolly, Bobby Sweeney and Berna Walsh which the team from Property Partners Buggy comprising Tommy Buggy, John Buggy and Pat Comerford took third place. Winner of the nearest to the pin competition was Cathal O’Neill while the prizes for the longest drives went to Jerry Rowe and Anna Lyons.

The organising committee would like to thank Kilkenny Golf Club. maintenance staff, catering and bar staff. A special thank you to all of the sponsors of the event. Well done to all of the organisers.

FRESHFORD

Pictured at the presentation of prizes following O’Loughlin Gaels Golf Classic were. Nigel Leydon Club Chairman, Anthony O’Driscoll winner, Benny Cleere and Michael O’ Reilly Organising Committee

JUVENILES DAY St Lachtains U8 had a fantastic day in Nowlan Park last week in the U8 Monster Go Games. They got to visit the dressing rooms and gym before running out onto the famous pitch through the player’s tunnel. They played two tough games against Bennettsbridge and Young Ireland’s with some fine skills, teamwork and determination on show. Well done to all players and coaches and they thank the official Kilkenny GAA and coaching staff for organising the experience the young players their coaches and parents.

St Lachtains had six boys representing the club and well done to them and their teammates on a fantastic day for the juvenile teams at the hurling academy national games finals on Saturday last.

Iarla Carroll was part of the winning shield team while Max O’Neill and his teammates reached the Cup final against Galway and that game finished in a draw. Jamie Kavanagh was part of the u 15 Arrabawn Cup winning team while Hugo Carroll and his teammates narrowly lost out by just 1 point in the Shield final. In the u16 section Michael Hickey was on the Michael Foley cup winning team while Paddy McCarthy was part of the shield winning team. Well done lads a brilliant day for club and county.

At Lachtains Intermediate hurlers collected their first point of the league on Sunday last when they finished all square with Carrickshock, in a thrilling game at Tullaroan finishing 1-19 each. They travel to Thomastown on Saturday next to face Mooncoin in the fourth round at 1pm.

The U14 boys defeated Ballyhale in the first round of the Roinn B league/championship last week in score of 3-19 to 1-7.

The U16 boys take on the Shamrocks in roinn A

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Community & GAA Notes league/championship on Friday evening at 7pm in Freshford.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the family of Wattie Lennon late of Kilaree, Threecastles. He was in his 92nd year and was predeceased by his wife Peggy. He was a jovial and friendly man, well known in the local community and farming circles throughout the area.

Cremation took place in Ringaskiddy Co Cork. He is mourned by his five sons, three daughters, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and extended family.

IONAD LACHTAIN A heritage walk will take place on Saturday 22nd August from 11.00am to 1.00pm at Kilrush House R95ET61. It is a built heritage and landscape walk covering the history of Kilrush House. It covers the period from the site of an early Christian Church to the early 18th century work of architect William Robertson. Refreshments afterwards in Ionad Lachtain FRESHFORD FORÓIGE SEEKS ADULT VOLUNTEERS Freshford Foróige Youth Club is looking for adult volunteers to get involved when activities resume in September. The club will host weekly fun and social meetings for young people aged between 12 and 17, with plenty of activities, opportunities to meet new friends and a chance for local teenagers to get involved in a welcoming community setting.

New members are always very welcome, so anyone aged 12-17 who would like to join is encouraged to come along and find out more. The club also needs enthusiastic adult volunteers to help support the weekly meetings and activities.

For more information on volunteering or joining the club, contact Aidan Gleeson on 086 067 4485 or email aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie. Alternatively, contact Barry Flynn on 087 458 1153.

POOL The first annual Stephen Darcy memorial pool tournament was held recently in Farrell’s bar. This is the first year of the tournament which was held in remembrance of local lad Stephen Darcy late of Clintstown Road who was a well known and respected character in the village and passed away in April 2025. The final saw local lad Shane McGree take on Lar Ryan of Johnstown and Lar came out the winner. The winner and runner up and finalists all donated their winnings to the fund. The presentation of trophies was made by Ann Darcy (mother of the late Stephen) who thanked all the organisers players and anyone who donated for the event. There was also raffle on the night and auction for special pool jersey which raised €2,500 and was kindly donated by the late Martin Rafter. All proceeds made on the evening will go to the Irish Kidney Donor Association.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Declan Killeen, Kilkenny Street, Freshford. Also, to all his family on the death last weekend of his aunt Elizabeth Delaney late of Patrick Street Kilkenny THREECASTLES HERITAGE Threecastles heritage group is holding two events for heritage week 2026. Exploring this year’s theme of “heritage at risk” was on Monday evening last and people were invited to Threecastles graveyard where Anne Caroline Distel KAS talked about the medieval graveslabs while Eleanor Cantwell and Claire O’Donnell recounted some of the social history associated with its historical graveyard.

AMONG THE HILLS OF KILLAREE On Sunday 23rd August at 12.30pm Eleanor Cantwell, Michael Doheny and Claire 0’Donnell will lead a walk in Killaree. There is some wonderful history to be found in this special towns land. All Meet at Threecastles Hurling Club (by kind permission).

This is a free event and all are welcome.

SOCCER NEWS With things a little quieter on the field of play at this time of year, there is no better opportunity to make use of the club’s astro turf pitch. The facility is now open for bookings, offering an ideal venue for training sessions, games or a kickabout with friends. Bookings can be made easily through the SportsKey online portal. Alternatively, anyone looking for further information can contact a committee member or send a message through the club’s social media page. So, with the summer evenings to enjoy, get a group together and get the boots on!

GAA LOTTO WINNER There was a jackpot winner in the weekly lotto last week. The jackpot winner was Ger Hogan who won €1,300. The lucky dip winners were S Hogan (€50), S Grant, J Glennon (€25 each). Tickets are €2 each and you can play online through Clubzap or from any of the local sellers.

CAMP This year’s summer camp was held last week at GAA grounds with good attendance and some lovely weather with Michael Farrell in charge along with his crew and a very enjoyable time was had by all.

BRIDGE Summer bridge continues each Monday evening in Threecastles Hall (R95WK45) at 7.30pm. All are welcome SPLIT THE POT The Split the Pot proceeds for August are going to Prague House. Winner of the first week was Sean Doran who won €156. You are asked to kindly support this cause throughout the month. Proceeds go to different local clubs each month. Tickets are just €2 and can be purchased in any of the local pubs or businesses.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB FAMILY FUN DAY A huge get together of club members, their families, friends and supporters gathered for the Family Fun Evening in the club’s sunny Larchfield grounds on Saturday evening. The positive mood of the evening was helped, no end following the intermediate team’s success over St. Martins in Freshford earlier in the day. Event co-ordinator, Ann Marie and her team put on a great show of music, multiple competitions for the young boys and girls to compete in, plus a juvenile disco for the young folk to burn their energy while dancing to their heart’s content.

The adults enjoyed the chat and banter while enjoying a burger and beer with friends and exchanging opinions on the prospects of club teams in the various upcoming championship campaigns.

Overall, a hugely successful social event enjoyed by the largest attendance of all ages in years.

INTERMEDIATE LEAGUE

Best friends for ever

All smiles at summer camp

Cheering on eachother at summer camp Happy group at summer camp

A new look James Stephens intermediate line up was primed for a quick start from the throw-in and shot into a 1-08 to 0-00 before the shocked St.

Martin’s team registered their first point in the 14th minute. After Cian Kenny (2 mins) and Ed McDermott (3mins) knocked over points, a long cross

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Community & GAA Notes field delivery to the corner forward by Dara Behan was diverted to the St. Martin’s net by their own defender for a 1-02 to 0-00 after just 4 minutes. The outstanding Cian Kenny and Ed Lauhoff continued to punish the Muckalee defence until they sprung to life in the 2nd quarter when a drive down the left wing in the 21st minute caused confusion in The Village back line to let them through for a goal.

Gaining in confidence, St. Martins quickly added three points countered by single scores from Cian Kenny (27min) and Ed Lauhoff (30min) to keep The Village in front with a reduced lead at 1-12 to 1-06.

Two minutes into added time the James Stephens backs were blinded by the sun as a long strike from the Muckalee defence landed close to goal and broke to a St. Martins forward who gladly finished to the net to reduce the city men’s lead further at 1-12 to 2-06.

Recharged, after ‘encouraging words’ from the selectors, James Stephens opened the 2nd half with a total of five points from Clive Kenny (1,3 and 8 mins) Oisin Bateman (2min), Conor McEvoy (5min) before St. Martins once again got off the mark in the 12th minute. With Cian Kenny in outstanding form from frees and open play adding a further three points James Stephens kept the determined opposition in check at 1-19 to 2-10 at the 17th minute. A neat Tadhg O’Dwyer point was followed by an Ed McDermott tap in goal from a Cian Kenny delivery to put The Village firmly in the driving seat.

Over the closing minutes St. Martins pushed hard to break the Village defence but, when substitute Zac Scanlon planted the sliothar in their net from another Cian Kenny pass the result was sealed. The final score read 3-24 to 2-14. Their next fixture is a top of the table clash with Lisdowney on Saturday evening next in Urlingford.

JUNIOR B LEAGUE On Sunday afternoon the junior hurlers claimed a deserved 1-17 to 1-12 victory over Young Irelands in their top of the table 4th round clash in a game more notable for the number of missed scoring opportunities by both sides. Throughout the 1st half both clubs traded scores, being level on four occasions, before Matt McWey finished a neat passing move to the net on the stroke of half time to give James Stephens a 1-09 to 0-08 lead. In the early minutes of the 2nd half points by Conor McEvoy (1min), Jack McGrath (3mins) and Dara Power (10 mins) kept James Stephens comfortably in front but a breakaway goal for Young Irelands, in the 11th minute, narrowed the gap once more at 1-12 to 1-10. Despite the scoring jinx continuing to affect both sides James Stephens pressed ahead once more through the efforts of Conor McEvoy (12 and 15mins), Fionn Cody (22mins) and Matt McWey (23mins) before Young Irelands landed their 11th point in the 25th minute. Throughout the game impressive tight marking led by captain Dinny Stapleton, Sam McEvoy, Jack McGrath, James Bergin, David Hennessy and Tuan Hyland contributed to their opponents high misfiring tally while Ross Whelan and Fionn Cody picked off two quality points each from open play over the hour.

Marksman Conor McEvoy, while a touch below his perfect best, contributed eight valuable points to ensure the club retained top spot on the league table.

SUMMER CAMP Juvenile officer Kieran Brennan reports that the club’s Summer Camp was wrapped up on Friday afternoon after a week of high-quality coaching supervised by a team of 20 club hurling and camogie players. A total of 195 enthusiastic James Stephens boys and girls took part over the five days upgrading their skills in our national games in an enjoyable and safe environment. Our thanks to Jack McGrath who organised fantastic drone coverage of the camp during the week. For the first time a Club Pop Up Sports Shop was introduced which proved very popular with the young players. Our thanks to all the club coaches for their work during the week.

U-16 CHAMPIONSHIP The U-16 hurlers negotiated the first hurdle in the 2026 U-16 league/championship with a nail biting 0-13 to 0-12 victory over St. Martins in Pairc Sheamuis Mhic Stiofain. The evenly matched team were level at 0-07 each at half time. With both defences on top throughout, the highly competitive fixture scores were hard earned on both sides. Having edged out their opponents at 0-13 to 0-12 at the end of play James Stephens can reflect on a huge defensive display over the hour by Conor O’Hara, Eddie Murphy, Paddy Maguire and Jack Ryan to get them over the line.

BONUS BALL Congratulationsto Breda Manogue and Pat Heffernan who won the August Bonus Ball draw when

their number 20 emerged from the National lotto draw drum on Saturday night. Each will receive a cheque for €500 in the coming days. Well done.

U-16 CHAMPIONSHIP After a slow start to their U-16 Roinn D league/ championship campaign the James Stephens U-16 hurlers got back on track with a 2-11 to 1-08 victory over Dicksboro on Thursday evening in Pairc Sheamuis Mhic Stiofain. A goal in the dying minutes of the first half by Paddy Larkin gave the home club a 1-04 to 0-04 lead at the break. It took a second three pointer by the in-form Paddy Larkin in the 2nd half to put some breathing space between the teams. In an overall fine team performance, nevertheless, the valuable league points could not have been secured without the strong influence of Eddie Murphy, Codie Owens, Jack Allen and Liam Daly.

CRANNCHUR (LOTTO): Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite 2, 4, 13, 26. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir, (no winner). Na mion duaiseanna €40: Rosa Pesco, Martina, Miriam Maher, Shem O’Grady agus Grainne Dorney. Mar is gnath go raibh maith agaibh go leir as bhur dtachtaoicht. (As always, our thanks to all for your continued support)

Elliott Morrissey and Jack Minogue who were part of the U14 CC squad that won the Leinster Shield title

BENNETTSBRIDGE ART EXHIBITION The 2026 Art Exhibition drew to a close on Sunday evening after a very successful ten days of activity.

Artists were delighted with the footfall, and the visitors book contained some very encouraging messages. The ten days ran very smoothly with artists sharing duties manning the exhibition. Sales were very satisfactory and most of the group recorded sales. There will be a few weeks break now, and classes are scheduled to return on 14th September.

COMMUNITY PICNIC A Community Picnic is being organised for Bennettsbridge to be held on 30th August from 11am to 1pm. Everyone is invited to come to the Bennettsbridge Playground and green and join in the fun and games. There will be music, face painting, Coffee Van and lots more. Bring your own picnic if

desired. Filming on the day is planned for the Bennettsbridge Film.

MASS TIMES Bennettsbridge: Wednesday 10,30am. Friday 10,30am. Sunday 10,30am. Tuesday 7,30pm LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s Jackpot, so the

treasure chest remains firmly locked for another week! The lucky numbers drawn were 3, 10, 15 and 25. Consolation prizes went to Adam Barden, P.O.; Suzie c/o Fr. Duggan; Josie Drea, Blackwell; Joan Cleere, Woodlawn; and Pat O’Neill, Ballyreddin.

Congratulations to all our winners. For everyone else, don’t worry, your numbers may just be warm-

Elma Kharaghani and her sister Trish were welcome visitors and their outfits coordinated perfectly with Julie’s painting

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Community & GAA Notes ing up for a big performance next week. Remember, you can’t win it if you’re not in it!

GAA Senior Hurling League: Hard luck to our senior hurlers who lost narrowly against Clara last weekend.

The next round is against Mullinavat on Tuesday evening next in Ballyhale.

Junior E Championship: Hard luck also to our junior E team who lost to an experienced O’Loughlin’s team in the championship semi-final last week.

Underage Games: Our under 11 team played in the Ballinakill tournament and won a shield. Good luck to all underage teams as the various championships heat up. Well done to young ‘Bridge hurlers in action with the Kilkenny squads last weekend with Ben Fitzgerld winning the Arrabawn title and well done also to Jack Minogue and Elliot Morrissey who both played with the Kilkenny under 14 squad.

FIELD DAY 2026 The Field Day is confirmed for Sunday 13th of September this year. Hopefully another great day will be had this year with all the usual attractions including, hurling and camogie games, wheel of fortune, bric- a-brac, raffle, foam party, BBQ, cake sale and much more on the day. Any donation for the wheel of fortune, bottle stand, raffle etc will be greatly appreciated. We require toys, unwanted gifts again this year. Please see the club social media pages for dates of drop off.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN The Bennettsbridge GAA Pitch signage campaign is continuing with many business owners availing of the opportunity to advertise. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

SPLIT THE POT Well done to Alan Flynn who won €90, Bill Nolan, €30 and Eileen Walpole, €20. Thanks again for the support.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH LOCALOTTO Numbers drawn were: 2, 15, 18, 31. There was no winner of the jackpot. Consolation prizes of €30went to the following, Rose McConville (online).

Kevin Kirwan (online). Michelle Bolger (online).

Anitha Lanigan (online). Colette and Richard Foley CAMOGIE CLUB Congratulations to our own past player and coach Catherine Sheehy who was selected to officiate as Umpire at the Premier Junior Final between Armagh and Cavan on Sunday 9th August in Croke Park. A great achievement Catherine. Well done.

HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC This years AGM will take place on Monday August 24th at 7:30pm in our clubhouse. If you would like to be involved in the club in any way going forward, please submit an expression of interest to Highviewathletic@outlook.com by August 20th.

OVER 35 RESULT Highview AFC 2 (Philly Moylan, Dean Broaders) - 0 St Joseph’s Our 35s kept their Division 2 title hopes firmly on track with an excellent home victory over St Joseph’s. They made the perfect start when Philly Moylan found the net with an early goal to put the boys in control. It was a tight and competitive game thereafter, with both sides battling hard for every ball. The home team showed great determination to protect their lead and looked set to see it out.

Then, just when the final whistle was approaching, Dean Broaders popped up to stretch the advantage, making sure there would be no late drama and securing a well-earned win.

HERITAGE WEEK WITH WATERWAYS COLLEGE Join us on Saturday, 22nd August for a fantastic day of discovery, nature and community as part of the Town of Books Festival and National Heritage Week.

12:00pm | Wild Child Citizen Science Session Discover the fascinating creatures living beneath the water’s surface and learn why healthy rivers matter. No booking required, just come along!

2:00pm | Walk and Talk with Éanna Ní Lamhna Enjoy a guided walk around the Barrow Valley Activities Hub with one of Ireland’s best known naturalists, followed by a relaxed Q and A under the marquee.

Whether you’re passionate about wildlife, curious about your local rivers, or just looking for a great family day out, there’s something for everyone.

A special free event will take place on Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, at the Barrow Valley Activities Hub in Graiguenamanagh, offering everyone the opportunity to discover more about the wildlife, history and heritage of the River Barrow.

The event promises to be an enjoyable and informative day for people of all ages, with a chance to

learn more about the river and the important role it has played in the development of the local area.

Visitors will also find out about the diverse wildlife and natural habitats along the Barrow and why they are so important. The event will also highlight how local communities and individuals can play their part in protecting the river, its heritage and surrounding environment for future generations.

Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. Come along, bring your curiosity and discover the wonderful heritage of the River Barrow.

BOOK FESTIVAL From August 21st to 23rd, 2026, the “Village of the Monks” transforms into a world-class literary haven for the Graiguenamanagh Town of Books Festival.

For one weekend only, the medieval streets become a bibliophile’s paradise with fun activities for all the family, Town of Books hits new highs this year with more dealers than ever before coming from across Ireland and the UK. Over 30 bookdealers are travelling to this year’s festival and it promises to be a feast for booklovers with specialist dealers bringing everything from rare first editions to general fiction and childrens books. Black Gull Books from London and Mark Skipper rare books from Cheltenham are returning again this year as is John Edmondson, Acanthophyllum books specialising in second-hand and antiquarian books on Botanical Art, Botany, Ecology, Gardens, Geology, etc etc. Pat Dunne from Kildare is another regular returning this year bringing GAA books and programmes. Nerd Up from Wexford will be back as well bringing a wide selection of comics, graphic novels and Manga.

BARROW BUS SERVICE UPDATE The branded Barrow Bus is now back in service.

Please make yourself known to the driver at the bus stop. Thanks to Local Link for the loan of a replacement bus while repairs were taking place.

EDWARD HAYDEN IN CONVERSATION WITH FRANK SHOULDICE AND PATRICK DOHERTY Friday 21 August 2026, 8.00pm Abbey Lane, Graiguenamanagh Join chef, broadcaster and bestselling food writer Edward Hayden for a fascinating evening with two outstanding Irish writers.

Frank Shouldice is an award-winning RTÉ Investigates documentary producer, director and author whose work has explored some of Ireland’s most compelling social issues. He is the author of Grandpa the Sniper and the novel Beneath the Cedar Tree.

Patrick Doherty is the author of the acclaimed debut novel Pure Innocent Boy. His short stories have appeared in the Irish Independent and on RTÉ Radio 1, and he has been nominated for both the Hennessy New Irish Writing Awards and the PJ O’Connor Radio Drama Awards.

Together, Edward, Frank and Patrick will discuss the art of storytelling across journalism, documentary filmmaking and fiction, exploring the inspiration behind their work and the stories that connect us to people, places and history.

HUB A fantastic announcement was made during Graiguefest last weekend, BVCD is delighted to launch a €10,000 Community Grant Fund for community groups in Graiguenamanagh and Tinnahinch.

The fund is designed to support local groups and community initiatives that help make Graiguenamanagh and Tinnahinch an even better place to live, work, play and connect. A total of €10,000 is available, applications are open to all community groups and clubs in Graiguenamanagh and Tinnahinch. Individuals can not apply.

Successful applicants may receive part or all of the available grant, depending on the applications received. The decision by the Barrow Valley Community Development Board of Directors is final.

You can request an application form by emailing eventsatthehub@gmail.com. We’re looking forward to seeing the ideas, projects and initiatives that this funding can help bring to life in our community.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN Tom Healy

ANTIQUES AUCTIONS (GORESBRIDGE) Suitable items are accepted for the auction on 24th August. Contact Martin on 087 2569496 or email togoresbridgeantiques@ gmail.com for details.

BARROW RANGERS There was no jackpot winner and no Match 3 winner in the lotto draw of 11th August.

Congratulations to the winning team, the Under-14s Roinn A in the League Round 1 last week.

BOXING CLUB (PAULSTOWN) Well done to all the boxers who competed recently.

Every one of them boxed really well and gained valuable experience and represented the club brilliantly.

BRIDGE UNITED The club is calling on all players, parents, supporters, and friends to get behind one of its biggest fundraising events of the year, taking place on Friday, 5th September, at 7.00pm in Kilkenny Dog Track.

Every ticket purchased will help raise vital funds for the club’s Astro Turf Project, supporting the continued development of facilities for all Bridge United AFC players. Tickets cost just €10 and promise a great night out while supporting the future of the club.

Congratulations to Brendan Hickey on winning €100 in the most recent weekly lotto draw in support of the club.

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

Paulstown: Thursday, and Friday at 10.00am Adoration, concluding with Benediction, takes place every Tuesday from 10.30am to 6.00pm in Paulstown Church.

The Legion of Mary meets each Thursday at 3.00pm in the Parish Hall, Paulstown. New members are always welcome.

The Sacred Heart Prayer Group gathers every Friday following the 10.00am Mass in Paulstown.

Church of Ireland Services on Sunday, 23 August: Grange Sylvae: 11.30am CUAS MUSICAL CONCERT The renowned West Kerry group CUAS will perform at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge, on Friday, 4th September at 8.00pm. Steeped in the rich musical traditions and songs of West Kerry, CUAS promises an entertaining and memorable evening of music.

The group will be joined by talented local Kilkenny musician Gerry Walsh, who will provide support on the night. Tickets: €23 For tickets and further information, contact Gerry Kavanagh on 086 044 3152 or book online through Eventbrite. Don’t miss this fantastic night of traditional music and song.

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

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

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

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

MEN’S SHED The next Men’s Shed gathering will take place this Tuesday, 25th August, in the cabin at Paulstown Community Hall. New members are always welcome.

MRS DOYLE The death has taken place of Maria Doyle (Nee Gough) Goresbridge and formerly Ballygunnar, Waterford. Predeceased by her parents Maurice and Cissie and sadly missed by her loving husband Eamonn, sons Eric and Brian and daughter, Louise, grandchildren Kheelan and Edie, brother Pat, daughters-in-laws, Mary and Jem, nieces, nephews, relatives and her many friends.

SPLIT THE POT Support Goresbridge Rural Development by taking part in Split the Pot. Entries are available in Maher’s and online. Simply scan the QR code or visit lottoraiser.ie. The winners of the draw on Sunday, 16th August were 1st Prize (€100): Michelle and Joe. 2nd Prize (€20): Conor and Caoimhe. 3rd Prize (€20): Tia and Ruth

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

Quality handbags are welcome. Customers are welcome too.

KILMACOW KILMACOW HERITAGE The Graveyard Working Group will continue the maintenance work at Dunkitt from 2.00pm on Saturday, 29th August. All offer of help will be welcomed.

SEEING KILMACOW DIFFERENTLY Kilmacow GLAS will host a follow up nature walk from 9.00am to 10.00am on Sunday, 30th August.

No pressure. No agenda. Just Nature. All welcome.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 8, 9, 21 and 26. There was one Match 3 winner.

HOME ENERGY EVENT Learn to make your home warmer and more energy efficient at a Home Energy Event in Kilmacow Community Centre from 5.00pm to 9.00pm on Wednesday, 16th September. All welcome.

SPEED BYE-LAWS The proposals for the new Urban Speed By-laws can be seen on the Council’s website, at County Hall, Kilkenny and at the Municipal District Office in Ferrybank. Submissions can be made online, by e-mail at speedlimits2026@kilkennycoco.ie or by post to Mary Mulholland, Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, Kilkenny by 1st September ROSEDALE CLASSIC The 14th Annual Rosedale Golf Classic will be held in Waterford Golf Club on Friday, 21st August. Cost per team of four is €120. Please contact Martin Bolger or Éamonn Rice for to register. All support welcome.

MARIAN HALL Line dancing with Suzanne will begin in the Marian Hall from 7.00pm to 8.30pm on Tuesday, 1st September. The cost is €10 on a Pay as you Go basis.

Suitable for beginners. All welcome.

The Marian Hall will also host a Yoga Class from 7.00pm to 8.00pm each Wednesday, commencing on 2nd September. The cost is €50 for a four-week block (or €15 per class). Contact Laura on 087 680 2303 for more details.

MOONCOIN PARISH HALL The Parish Hall will host Chair Yoga at 12 noon on Monday, 31 st August. Contact Lisa on 087655 8716 for more details.

Also, the Day Care Centre returns after the Summer Break onWednesday, 2nd September. The schedule includes Bingo or Cards (1.30pm), live music (3.00pm) with tea and refreshments at 4.00pm. The cost is €3. Everyone is welcome.

MULLINAVAT MULLINAVAT FESTIVAL OF HURLING AND CAMOGIE The Camogie Club and Hurling Club in Mullinavat will jointly host a festival of hurling and camogie, fun and community from 10.00am to 2.30pm on Saturday, 29th August to Sunday, 30th August. A raffle will be held in conjunction with the event.

Tickets are €5 each (or six for €25). There are many fabulous prizes, and the draw will be held on Sunday, 6th September. It promises to be a great weekend.

MULLINAVAT LOTTO The winning lotto numbers on Monday, 10th August were 5, 7, 13 and 21. There were two Match 3 winners.

IVERK SHOW This year’s Iverk Show will be held in Piltown on Saturday, 22nd August.

See www.iverkshow.ie for more details.

SENIOR HURLING LEAGUE Graigue-Ballycallan 2-25 (31); Mullinavat 3-16 (25).

Graigue-Ballycallan remain unbeaten in section A of the St Canice’s Kilkenny Senior Hurling League following a five-point victory over Mullinavat at Thomastown on Sunday. (A fullreport on this match can be read in the sports section of this newspaper) FERRYBANK FERRYBANK LIBRARY The library will host a talk by Andrew Doherty on

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Community & GAA Notes ‘Brannagh, Kilmacow and Dunkitt ‘Pill’– a fading river placename’ as part of Heritage Week from 7.00pm to 8.00pm, Wednesday, 19th August. For centuries, rivers played a crucial role in travel, trade and daily life, shaping the growth of towns and cities across Europe. In this engaging talk, Andrew Doherty explores the maritime heritage of the River Blackwater in south Kilkenny, uncovering its historic role in connecting local communities to Waterford and the wider Three Sisters River network through a thriving trade in goods and people. Drawing on maps, archaeology, local knowledge and community memories, he also examines the history of the distinctive “Pill” placename and highlights the rich river heritage of south-east Ireland. All welcome.

HILLSFIELD MEETING The monthly meeting of Ferrybank Residents Community Development Group will be held from 2.00pm to 3.00pm on Wednesday, 26th August. Local residents are welcome to attend.

They can also e-mail ferrybankcn@gmail.com to be kept updated on events in the Ferrybank area.

NEIGHBOURHOOD PARK One of the swings in the park was recently found to be damaged and was removed by Kilkenny County Council. It will be returned to the park following repair.

PART-TIME COURSES Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board and Back to Education Initiative will provide two part-time courses in Belmont from September.

A part-time Office Administration course from 9.30am to 4.30pm will commence on Wednesday, 9th September and a part- time SNA course will commence on Thursday, 10th September. Please contact btei@kkadulted.ie or telephone 056 7701020 for more information.

JOHNSTOWN SUCCESS Well done to Michael Hayde, Balief whose horse Balief De Reve has been selected for the British Team for the Young Rider European Championships in Segersjo, Sweden later this month.

Another of Michael’s horses Balief Imperial won his class at the recent Horse show at the RDS and was then selected as reserve supreme champion.

Balief De Reve is an 11 year old Hermes De Reve half sister to the reserve champion Balief Imperial. Riding the reserve champion was Niamh Kirwan, Kilmeaden, amassing 96 points and winning the 7 year old and upwards lightweight class. Both animals are out of the same mare and reared by Michael on his land at Donoughmore, Johnstown.

ST. KIERAN’S COMMUNITY HALL 500 CLUB Here are the 500 Club results for August. 1.

Michael Doran, Warrenstown, 2. Mary Hughes, Freshford, 3. Margaret Bowe St. Kieran’s Place, 4.

Michelle Queally, The Square, 5. Keith Landers Lios na Shi. The next draw will be held on Wednesday September 2nd.

COIS NORE The Kells Kings Charity Cycle takes place on Saturday, August 29th, with cyclists of all abilities invited to take part in what promises to be a fantastic day on the bike. There are three great routes to choose from, covering distances of 30km, 68km and 116km, making the event suitable for everyone from those looking for a leisurely spin to more experienced cyclists seeking a challenge.

Participants will be well catered for along the way, with water stops provided at Mullinavat, Coppanagh Hill and Goatsbridge. There will also be a food and rest stop at the hall in Inistioge, giving cyclists a welcome opportunity to refuel and recharge before continuing their journey.

The registration fee includes a warm meal at the finish, making it the perfect way to round off the day. With great routes, good company and a worthy cause, the Kells Kings Charity Cycle is not to be missed.

WE WEEE RECYCLE Residents in Johnstown and the surrounding areas will have a great opportunity to dispose of unwanted electrical and electronic equipment responsibly when a WEEE recycling collection takes place at the Church car park on Saturday, August 22nd. The collection will run from 10am until 4pm and provides a convenient way for householders to clear out old electrical items that may otherwise be difficult to dispose of. WEEE, or Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment, includes a wide range of everyday household ap-

pliances and electrical goods.

Recycling these items ensures that valuable materials can be recovered and reused, while potentially harmful substances are kept out of the environment. It is also an important part of reducing the amount of electrical waste going to landfill. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the collection and bring along their unwanted electrical and electronic equipment.

The event offers a simple and environmentally friendly way to have a clear-out while helping to support better recycling practices in the local community.

The collection will be open from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, August 22nd, at Johnstown Church car park.

PLAYER RECRUTING PROGRAME Spa United AFC.are looking for new players, girls and boys, to join their soccer squads. Contact Jamie via What’s app on 086300076.

MRS MARIAN ROTHWELL (nee Tobin) The death has taken place unexpectedly of Marian, Graine and late of Canal Road, Johnstown.

Predeceased by her husband Niall, parents Jack and Margaret Tobin and brothers Tom and Billy, she will be sadly missed by her family Deirdre, Niamh, Pamela, Sean and David, sister Joan (McConnell), brother John, grandchildren Niall, Ruby, Senan, Lochlann, Callum, Daithi, Oran, Caoimhe, Croia, Eireann, Aoibheann and Aoife, daughters in law, sons in law, partners, nieces, nephews, extended family, relations and many friends.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Patrick’s Church, Graine after which Marian was laid to rest in Johnstown Cemetery.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers 19,20,25,28, proved not to be winners as there was no jackpot winner or no match threes. However, four lucky dips were awarded to Cillian Purcell, Ryan Family (Sharavaun), Joe Bergin and Tom Garrett. So, the whole event was not a complete waste of our efforts.

Please play and see does it pay!

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

One of the upcoming opportunities available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme.

This free L.T.I. course will be starting soon and includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable life skills that can support employment and independence.

Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or make contact directly for further details and application information.

The Youth club is back every Wednesday from 5.30 – 6.30pm. For Ages 10yrs – 12yrs GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 1pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

PASTORAL MINISTRY Would you like to serve as a Pastoral Minister within your parish and Parish Combination group? A programme in Pastoral Ministry and Leadership will begin in October and lead to a two-year course of study in Mary Immaculate College, Thurles. See poster on notice board at main doors of both Churches. Brochures available from Fr. Walton. Information from Katherine Dullaghan, Development Office on 086 1033761.

GLENGOOLE MUSIC FESTIVAL WEEKEND Eleanor Shanley and Mike Hanrahan in Buddy’s Shed this Saturday 22nd August. 8pm. Tickets €25 from 087 7500710. Music on the Reen on Sunday 23rd Aug at 2pm. All are welcome.

MONSTER METAL SCRAP COLLECTION Thurles Mart, Friday August 28th and Saturday August 29th. All types of Metal accepted. We are not able to accept household electrical appliances such as washing machines, etc. Call Phil on 087 2420074 to arrange collection. This is in aid of the Cathedral Reroofing Project.

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

Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at

4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Fiadh Treacy c/o Susan Treacy who won €324 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange, Gortnahoe Hall and any member of the committee, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for August is in aid of the Camogie Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CON CLEARY RIP Deapest sympathy to the family of Cornelius (Con) Cleary, formerly of Boulick, Gortnahoe, who died in Hong Kong.

draw were 16, 18 and 27. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Tara Keogh, Eoin Byrne, Jack, Emily and Freya Joyce, Eric O’Sullivan and Seamus and Maria Delaney. The promoter prize winners were Brian Lacey, Shay Healy and Mona Dooley.

Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

THREECASTLES HERITAGE On this Sunday, August 23rd, at 12.30 p.m., Eleanor Cantwell, Michael Doheny and Claire O’Donnell from Threecastle Heritage Group will lead a Walk in Kilaree. This townsland has a great story to tell. Attendees are asked to meet at Threecastles GAA grounds (by kind permission).

This is a free event, and all are welcome.

CONAHY

ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat.

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

Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired).

Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil Saturday 22nd. at 6.30p.m.

Friday 21st. Feast of St. Pius X. Saturday 22nd.

Feast of The Queenship of Mary.

Anniversary Mass: Joe and Philip Murphy, Lawcus: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 22nd. August at 6.30p.m.

ROTA (TWENTY FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Lennon. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron; Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m.

Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m.

Mary Murphy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr.

HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY, HUGGINSTOWN House No. 5 is now vacant. Any elderly person who is interested in applying please contact the Secretary, Lily Burke, Croan, Dunamaggan; Tel. 056 776 8008 for an Application Form.

BISHOP OF OSSORY The Episcopal Installation of Ger Nash as Bishop of Ossory will be on Sunday 13th. September in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny at 3.00p.m.

Evening Prayer with Bishop Ger: All are invited to join with Bishop Ger as he leads us in Evening Prayer in preparation for his Episcopal Installation as Bishop of Ossory when he begins his ministry as our Bishop. On Friday, 21st. August in St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny at 7.30p.m. On Friday, 28th. August in Church of the Assumption, Owning, at 7.30p.m.

CARRICKSHOCK GAA CLUB: Thanks to all, who supported our recent highly successful Golf Classic and Piltown Draw fundraising initiatives. We look forward to seeing you on the side lines over the coming weeks.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 10th. August 2026.

Numbers: 09; 21; 10; 04. One Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €500.00. Winner: Ashling Rohan, Carricketna. €25.00. Seller of Match 3 Ticket: Eilis Rohan 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Anne Power; Trish Power; Tommy Murphy.

“ANAM CARA” “Anam Cara” is very pleased to announce our first Bereavement Information Evening especially dedicated to supporting surviving siblings this autumn.

As part of our commitment to supporting everyone following the death of a child, we are exploring opportunities to further support the entire family. This event is the first, hopefully of many, of that commitment. This event is open to all parents whose child or children have died, regardless of the age of their child, circumstances of their death, or time since bereavement. We are also opening this Bereavement Information Evening to bereaved adult siblings over 18. For further information: Isabella (Elsie) Wiessner, Tel. 01 404 5378 Email: i.wiessner@anamcara.ie.

Web. www.anamcara.ie

HURLING The junior hurlers lost out to Kilmacow in their third round game of the JJ Kavanagh Junior League in Bennettsbridge. Conahy started slowly but fought back well to lead by 0-11 to 0-8 at half-time. However, Kilmacow took control in the early stages of the second half with a goal and a number of points. They held this advantage from there until the finish to win out by 1-19 to 0-18.

Conahy are back in action this Sunday evening at 4.30 when they play Galmoy in Cloneen HC Grounds.

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

The under-16 hurlers had a good win over Cloneen in their most recent game in the Duggan Steel Under-16 Roinn C League/Championship in Cloneen. There were only a few scores between the teams at the halfway mark, but Conahy were the better team in the second half and eventually won out by 2-20 to 1-9.

TEAM: Padraig Murphy, Jim Synott, James Byrne, Mikey Hurley, Diarmuid Quinn,Mounir Zouaoui, Ben Byrne, Bobby Dooley, Sam Connellan, Cian Rhatigan, MJ Buggy, Jack Buggy, Ethan McEvoy, Jack Gamble, Darragh McGee, Noah Meany, Brandon Maher, Ciaran Quinn.

The minor hurlers are back in action next Monday night in the Kilkenny Vehicle Centre Roinn B League/Championship when they play host to Piltown in Jenkinstown at 7.00 p.m.

The under-14 hurlers played host to John Lockes in the Duggan Steel Roinn D League. The young Conahy side battled bravely all through, but the physically stronger Callan boys were deserving winners in the end by 6-13 to 3-8.

TEAM: Conor Horgan, Cillian Nolan, Darragh McGee, Daniel McEvoy, Rory McDonald, Padraig Murphy, Charlie Redmond, Richie Rowe, Noah Meany, Ciaran Quinn, Cian Rhatigan, Rory Kiernan, Tommy Murphy, Billy Hickey, Josh Byrne, Blaine Kenny, Charlie Dunne.

Well done to Richie Rowe who was part of the Kilkenny Under-14 Academy Squad which took part in the National Day of Hurling last Saturday.

Congratulations to Richie on this fine achievement and representing the club so well.

CAMOGIE The intermediate camogie girls had a well deserved win in their first outing of the Abbott Intermediate league/championship campaign on Friday evening last when they got the better of Dicksboro. Despite Conahy enjoying a good start, the city side led by 2-6 to 1-7 at the break, the Conahy goal coming from Katie Brennan. But the locals upped their performance once again during the second half and ran out winners by 1-16 to 2-10. Conahy are back in action in their second round game on this Sunday morning at 11.00 a.m. when they travel away to Mooncoin.

TEAM: Siofraidh Kennedy, Amy Lawless, Grainne Comerford, Amy Morrissey, Aisling Maher, Katie Brennan, Sofia Kerr, Emma Mulhall, Hollie Brennan, Naomi Kerr, Katie Brennan, Aisling Downey, Sarah Dooley, Ellen Gunner, Molly O’Dornan, Grace Mulhall, Mary Lou Rowe, Aislin Comerford, Caoimhe Hennessy, Caoimhe Mulhall, Robyn Morrissey, Grace Butler, Sarah Webster, Sarah Molloy, Emily Lawless, Clodagh Lawless, Keelan Kennedy.

GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto

NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Sport Coming away with the spoils

Graigue Ballycallan stage superb comeback

Waiting to make his move

Not an inch given

Graigue Ballycallan 2-25 (31); Mulllinavat 3-16 (25) John Power at Thomastown GAA Grounds.

Graigue Ballycallan remain unbeaten at the top end of Section A of the St Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League following a thrilling five-point victory over Mullinavat at Thomastown on Sunday last. It was a victory which further underlined the progress being made by the Kilmanagh outfit. For the first time in many years, Graigue Ballycallan have won their opening three games in the Kilkenny champion-

ship, and their latest success was all the more impressive given the manner in which they recovered from a disastrous opening quarter.

The club has been enjoying something of a golden period, having captured last year’s county Under-21 A title, and there is a growing belief that the current senior side can build on that success. They have also had to cope with the loss of inter-county star Billy Ryan from their 2025 senior panel, yet the younger players have stepped up admirably.

Mullinavat looked to be in complete control during the opening stages and appeared set to inflict

a first defeat on their opponents.

The Vegas men opened the scoring with an Oisin Knox free, although Jesse Roberts quickly levelled matters for Graigue Ballycallan. From there, Mullinavat took control and registered the next five scores. Ian Duggan contributed two points from play, while Oisin Knox added another free and Ger Malone and Liam Fennelly also found the target as Mullinavat moved into a 0-6 to 0-1 lead.

Graigue Ballycallan finally settled and produced an excellent response.

Colum Prenderville, Aaron McEvoy from a free and Jesse Roberts all pointed in quick succession to reduce the deficit to just two points, 0-4 to 0-6, by the 11th minute.

However, Mullinavat were not prepared to surrender their advantage and responded with a devastating two-minute spell. Oisin Knox sent over a magnificent point from approximately 100 metres before Conor Power found the net after a clever catch and lay-off from Conor Walsh.

Graigue Ballycallan did manage to stop the flow when Ryan Corcoran pointed, but Mullinavat struck for a second goal shortly afterwards to open up an eight-point advantage. A

All in contention

long delivery from George O’Connor caused problems in the Graigue defence and Vegas full-forward Brian Phelan showed good composure to finish to the net.

The Kilmanagh men could easily have folded at this stage, but instead they showed the character which has been a feature of their season to date. By the 20th minute they had scored 1-2 in reply, with Aaron McEvoy converting a free before Conor Flynn produced an important goal and followed it with a point. The exchanges became increasingly open, with Ian Duggan and McEvoy trading scores before Billy O’Neill and McEvoy again exchanged points.

Mullinavat remained dangerous at the other end, with Conor Walsh pointing before Conor Power struck for his second goal of the afternoon in the 27th minute, following a fine save from Graigue Ballycallan goalkeeper Sean McGrath. That left Mullinavat seven points clear, but the Kilmanagh side continued to chip away at the deficit and managed to reduce it to five by the interval.

Mullinavat 3-11, Graigue Ballycallan 1-12.

The second half was a completely different story. Aaron McEvoy and Ian Duggan exchanged early points

before McEvoy added another free and Oisin Knox responded from a placed ball. Graigue Ballycallan were now beginning to dominate possession and territory, and their pressure finally paid dividends in the 42nd minute when McEvoy hit 1-1 from play to bring his side right back into contention. Knox steadied Mullinavat nerves with another free, but Graigue Ballycallan had now found their rhythm. Ryan Corcoran reduced the gap further before McEvoy took over, converting three frees in succession as the Kilmanagh side moved into the lead for the first time, 2-19 to 3-13.

Having completed such a remarkable recovery, Graigue Ballycallan refused to allow Mullinavat back into the contest. They finished strongly, outscoring the Vegas men by six points to two during the closing stages to secure an excellent five-point victory.

Aaron McEvoy was the outstanding performer and finished with a magnificent personal tally of 1-12. He was ably supported by Colum Prenderville and Jeff Neary as Graigue Ballycallan showed tremendous character to turn an eightpoint deficit into a convincing victory.

For Mullinavat, Ian Duggan was their leading scorer with five points from play, while Tom Aylward and Conor Power also worked tirelessly throughout.

The result leaves Graigue Ballycallan unbeaten after three rounds and sets up a mouth-watering top-of-the-table clash against the other unbeaten side in their group, Thomastown, in Round Four.

For Mullinavat, however, the situation is becoming increasingly worrying. The Vegas lads have collected just a single point from their opening three games and are now sailing close to the relegation trap door.

Their next outing against Bennettsbridge has therefore taken on added importance, with the South Kilkenny side badly in need of a result to get their campaign back on track.

SCORERS GRAIGUE BALLYCALLAN: Aaron McEvoy (1-13, 0-10 frees), Conor Flynn (1-1), Jesse Roberts (0-3), Ryan Corcoran (0-3), Colum Prenderville (0-2), Sean Ryan, Billy O’Neill, Shane Butler (0-1 each).

MULLINAVAT: Oisin Knox (0-7, 0-6 frees), Conor Power (2-0), Ian Duggan (0-5), Brian Phelan (1-0), Liam Fennelly (0-2), Conor Walsh (0-1), Conor Duggan (0-1).

TEAMS MULLINAVAT Seán Fitzpatrick, Bill Dempsey, Tom Aylward, Robin Davis, George O’Connor, Pádraig Dempsey, Padraic Gahan, Michael Malone, Ian Duggan, Conor Walsh, Ger Malone, Oisín Knox, Conor Power, Brian Phelan, Liam Fennelly. Substitutes: Joe Gahan for Michael Malone, Eoin Dempsey for Pauraic Gahan, David Maher for Bill Dempsey, Patrick Walshe for George O’Connor, Conor Duggan for Conor Walsh.

GRAIGUE BALLYCALLAN: Sean McGrath, Ben McEvoy, Tom Dunphy, Richie Keoghan, Colum Prenderville, Billy O’Neill, Stephen Keoghan, Jeff Neary, Jack Walton, Conor Flynn, Jesse Roberts, Tommy Ronan, Aaron McEvoy, Patrick Foley, Ryan Corcoran. Substitutes: Sean Ryan for Jack Walton, Shane Butler for Patrick Foley, Eoghan Cahill for Conor Flynn, Onsin Egan for Jesse Roberts.

Referee Paul Cahill (Dunnamaggin).

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

47

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Sport

Taking the ball in hand

A high one dropping in

Taking the ball out to clear the defence

Thomastown maintain winning run

Holding on for support

organised and determined.

The victory sees Thomastown maintain their unbeaten start and build further momentum as the league progresses. They will now turn their attention to a round four meeting with GraigueBallycallan, another fixture that promises to provide a stern test.

Glenmore, meanwhile, will be hoping for a quick response when they face Clara in their next outing. After a difficult afternoon in Mullinavat, they will know that a sharper attacking display will be required if they are to get their league campaign back on track.

For Thomastown, however, it was another afternoon of progress. Three wins from three has given them an excellent foundation and, on this evidence, they will be confident of continuing their challenge as the St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League moves towards the business end of the campaign.

increasingly clear.

By the 50th minute Thomastown were 1-17 to 0-7 ahead and, despite Glenmore’s efforts, the margin was simply too great to overcome. The closing stages lacked the intensity of the opening half as Thomastown managed their advantage with relative comfort.

The large crowd were able to enjoy the excellent summer conditions, with the destination of the two league points decided well before the final whistle. Thomastown had star performers throughout the field. Their full-back line was particularly impressive, while Eddie Donnelly was commanding at centre-back. Ben Nevin and Peter McDonald worked tirelessly around midfield and provided an excellent platform for the forward division. The Thomastown forwards also deserve credit for their commitment and willingness to work for one another. Their ability to score from distance was a feature of the performance, while their movement caused Glenmore problems throughout.

For Glenmore, Shane Murphy and Tomas Mullally were among their better performers on a difficult afternoon.

The southern side remained competitive and continued to battle, but their forward line struggled to function effectively against a Thomastown defence that was well

SCORERS THOMASTOWN Robbie Donnelly (0-8, 0-5 frees), Jack Holden (1-0), John Donnelly (0-3), Daithi Barron (0-3), Peter McDonald (0-2), Stephen Donnelly (0-1), Ben Nevin (0-1), Cian Doherty (01), Luke Connellan (0-1).

GLENMORE Ian Byrne (0-6, 0-4 frees, 0-1 “65”), Jason Cody (0-2, 0-1 frees), Charlie Phelan, Tomas Mullally, Cathal Beirne, Ethan Phelan, Shane Murphy, Billy Reid (0-1 each).

TEAMS THOMASTOWN Diarmuld Galway, Ned Kirwan, Peter Connellan, David Prendergast, Brian Staunton, Eddie Donnelly, Rory Connellan, Ben Nevin, Peter McDonald, Robbie Donnelly, John Donnelly, Stephen Donnelly, Daithi Barron, Luke Connellan, Jack Holden. Substitutes: Cian Doherty for Jack Holden, Conor Barcoe for Ben Nevin, Roman Connolly for Luke Connellon, GLENMORE Eoin Murphy, Darragh Vereker, Eoin Aylward, Richie Hennessy, Jack Dollard, Shane Murphy, Billy Reid, Darragh Hartley, Tomás Mullally, Dean Croke, lan Byrne, Jason Cody, Charlie Phelan, Ciarán Kirwan, Robbie Fitzpatrick.

Substitutes: Cathal Beirne for Dean Croke, Ethan Phelan for Robbie Fitzpatrick, Padraig Cody for Eoin Aylward.

Referee: Owen Kenny.

Giving it a big puck out

Looks like a good one

Thomastown 1-20; Glenmore 0-14.

John Power at Mullinavat GAA Grounds Thomastown recorded their third successive victory in the St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League when they proved too strong for Glenmore in sunny Mullinavat on Saturday afternoon last. The Thomastown men produced a polished performance to run out seven-point winners, although the final margin did not fully reflect their superiority for long periods.

They controlled the game for most of the afternoon, particularly during the first half when they played with the assistance of a stiff breeze and built a platform for victory.

From the opening exchanges it was clear that Thomastown were intent on making their advantage count. They opened up a 0-4 to 0-0 lead inside the first ten minutes, with Robbie Donnelly opening the scoring from a free before Stephen Donnelly, Robbie Donnelly from play and Peter McDonald added further points. The winners were moving the ball well and showed an impressive ability to find the target from distance. Their teamwork was particularly evident as they worked the ball through the lines, while their forwards were prepared to take on scores from difficult angles.

Glenmore finally opened their account in the tenth minute when Charlie Phelan pointed, but Thomastown responded quickly with John Donnelly finding the target. Tomas Mullally then added Glenmore’s second score, only for John Donnelly to reply again at the other end.

Jason Cody took over freetaking duties from Ian Byrne and duly converted a free in the 17th minute to leave Glenmore trailing by 0-6 to 0-3.

Thomastown, however, were working extremely hard throughout the field and continued to win the crucial battles. Their efforts were rewarded with three unanswered points from John Donnelly, Daithi Barron and Ben Nevin as they began to

establish a firm grip on proceedings.

Glenmore were finding it difficult to build any sustained momentum in attack and their frustration was compounded by a number of disappointing wides from placed balls. Ian Byrne did manage to steady the ship with two points, including one from play, and by the 27th minute the Thomastown advantage had been reduced to four. The response from Thomastown was immediate. Robbie Donnelly and Daithi Barron added points before a disputed Luke Connellan score increased the lead to 0-12 to 0-5.

Glenmore were awarded a late opportunity and Ian Byrne converted a 65 in added time, leaving Thomastown six points in front at the interval, Thomastown 0-12, Glenmore

A sun kissed section of the crowd enjoy the action

0-6.

If Glenmore had any thoughts of staging a secondhalf comeback, those hopes were dealt a major blow within a minute of the restart. Thomastown produced an excellent move, with Daithi Barron involved in the build-up before Jack Holden finished the attack to the net. The goal gave Thomastown an imposing 1-12 to 0-6 advantage and provided them with exactly the start they wanted to the second half.

Glenmore continued to battle and eventually got their first score of the second half in the 41st minute when substitute Cathal Beirne pointed. Robbie Donnelly responded for Thomastown a minute later and, as the game moved into its final quarter, the outcome was becoming

48

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Sport Mooncoin 3-14; Rower Inistioge 0-12.

John Power at Mooncoin GAA Grounds With an impressive secondhalf display, Mooncoin booked their place in the 2026 Country Style Foods Junior D Hurling final following an 11-point victory over Rower Inistioge at Mooncoin on a pleasant Sunday evening. This was a competitive and entertaining contest, particularly during the opening half when there was very little between the sides. Rower Inistioge made a determined start and Mooncoin had to work hard for every score, with neither team able to establish any real authority.

The exchanges were close throughout the opening period, and the sides were level on several occasions before Mooncoin managed to edge ahead. At the interval, the home side held the narrowest of advantages, leading by just a single point, 0-6 to 0-5.

Mooncoin came out with far greater purpose after the restart and immediately began to put their opponents under pressure. They registered three unanswered points, with Danny Purcell and Billy Delahunty, who scored twice, putting some daylight between the teams.

Rower Inistioge refused to surrender, however, and continued to battle for every ball.

Jamie Dwan got them back on the scoreboard before Fiachra Farrell converted two frees to bring the visitors right back into contention. The two sides then exchanged pointed frees, Ethan Ryan replying for Mooncoin before Farrell once again found the target for Rower Inistioge. At this stage, the game remained very much in the balance, but Mooncoin were beginning to look increasingly dangerous around the Rower Inistioge goal.

The decisive breakthrough finally arrived in the 40th minute. A long delivery into the square caused problems for the Rower Inistioge defence and Billy Delahunty reacted quickest, getting on the end of the ball to finish to the net and give Mooncoin a valuable cushion at 1-11 to 0-10.

Rower Inistioge responded with great spirit and Fiachra Farrell reduced the deficit to three points with an excellent score from distance.

Mooncoin, though, were now beginning to find their rhythm and another Ethan Ryan free restored some breathing space.

The home side then struck for their second goal, with Delahunty again at the centre

Moving it out

Mooncoin march into Roinn D Final Countrystyle Foods Kilkenny Junior D Hurling Championship Semi Final

Claiming possession

Picking his pass

Airbourne challenge

Close marking

of the action. He won possession, showed great composure as he swivelled away from his marker and struck a powerful effort beyond Chapman in the Rower Inistioge goal to make it 2-11 to 0-10.

Harry Murphy was outstanding for Rower Inistioge and he

refused to give up the fight. He produced one of the scores of the evening when he landed a fine point from around 80 metres, giving his side renewed hope.

Mooncoin, however, were now firmly in control and effectively put the result beyond

doubt by the 50th minute. Two fine points from the midfield area increased their advantage before JP Purcell sent a long delivery towards the Rower Inistioge goal. Ray Wall was on hand to apply the finishing touch, sending the ball to the net for Mooncoin's third goal and leaving the score at 3-13 to 0-11. With the outcome now beyond doubt, the intensity understandably eased during the closing stages. Mooncoin had done the damage with a superb second-half performance in which their attacking play and ability to take their goal chances proved decisive.

Rower Inistioge can take plenty of positives from their first-half display and the man-

ner in which they continued to battle after Mooncoin had opened up a lead.

For Mooncoin, however, it is all about the final now. They advance to the Roinn D decider where they will meet either Cloneen or Young Irelands next weekend, with confidence understandably high following an impressive performance after the break.

TEAMS MOONCOIN: Niall O’Hanlon, Jackie Ryan, Niall Blanchfield, Eoin McGrath, Zach Power, Darragh Murphy, Canice Kinsella, Stephen Brennan, Ethan Ryan, Robert Finn, Billy Delahunty junior, Jack Tyler, Kieran Fagan, Michael Ryan,

Danny Purcell. Substitutes: John Paul Purcell, Ray Wall for Danny Purcell, Patrick Kinsella, Kieron Dillon Dunphy for Canice Kinsella, Sean Wall fir Billy Delahunty junior.

ROWER INISTIOGE: Ben Chapman, John Joe Lawless, Jim Murphy, Thomas Grace, Tadhg Leahy, Harry Murphy, Oisin Smithwick O’Brien, Robby Walshe, John Grace, James Prendergast, Fiacre Farrell, Conor Downey, Howard McDonnell, David Lyng, Ewan Gilsenan. Substitutes: Eoghan Byrne, Jamie Dwan, William Ashe Doyle for Johnny Grace, Callum McGrath for Robby Walshe.

Referee: Ray Byrne (Glenmore)

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

49

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Sport

Windgap break losing streak

All eyes on the ball in the Fenians versus Windgap JJ Kavanagh and Sons JH Premier League clash

Report Jimmy Walsh.

Pictures by Matthew O'Shea This third round, JJ Kavanagh and Sons Premier Junior Hurling League game between Windgap and the Fenians was played on excellent sward conditions at St. Johns Park, on Sunday afternoon, had historic and nostalgic significance, as well as a search for both sides to break a losing run and to secure two league points.

Fifty-four years earlier, in August 1972, the two new clubs and the young kids on the block, lined out in a Senior Hurling Quarterfinal, just three hundred yards away in Nowlan Park. Now back, at the very start, in the junior grade together, the younger generations had their chance to make their own memories.

Playing with a slight breeze into the country goal, the Fenians, Conor Tobin put them ahead as Billy Power equalised. A poor, Windgap line ball, saw Rory Garrett

finish a good move, to restore the Fenians' lead, before James Power, got on the end of the puckout to goal for Windgap and put them 1-1 to 0-2 ahead after four minutes.

With Windgap getting four of the next five points, through Conor Doyle, James Power, and a Billy Power brace, to an Adam Duggan reply, the southern side led by 1-5 to 3 points at the quarterway stage. Two Fenians replies, from Willie Brennan, after Mark Hughes was fouled, and Conor Tobin after a smart line ball, brought the lead back to 1-5 to 0-5.

Three additional points apiece, saw a Billy Power free after Killian Enright was fouled, and Conor Doyle put Windgap five points ahead, as Willie Brennan and James Power traded scores and Kieran Grehan benefited from loose play to reduce the lead back to 1-8 to 0-8 after twentyfive minutes. During this period, the Fenians increased

Killian Enright fields a high ball against the Fenians in their JJ Kavanagh and Sons JH Premier League clash

Billy Power sets up a Windgap attack

their wides tally to double their opponents' ones.

Despite this, the Fenians finished the half in style, as sub Darragh McCormack started the comeback from a free-flowing move that commenced with a rare short puckout. Willie Brennan then added a point from play, and another from a free after a foul was brought up. It tied the scores 1–8 for Windgap to the Fenians 0-11 at half time, and it was still all to play for.

Whatever plans were laid by

both sides at the break, Windgap bolted into the second half, with 1-3 without reply to lead 2-11 to 0-11 after thirtyseven minutes.

The scores came from two Billy Power frees, and a well-worked goal from a Sean Purcell lineball to Conor Doyle for Adam O’Shea to score in the bottom right-hand corner as Jack Doyle added a fine point.

In the free-flowing, fairly played competitive tie, a tackle on Billy Power held up the game and saw the Fenians’ Willie Brennan get a red card.

In play, the Fenians accumulated two more wides as Jack Doyle had two long-range shots for goal cleared. After Rory Garret got a Fenians point from a free from behind his own sixty-five, to leave the scores 2-11 to 0-12 approaching the end of the third quarter, both sides were down a man as James Power got a red card that left staunch supporters from both sides mystified

and the game appeared to suffer.

The next ten minutes, saw the Fenians rue the loss of their main scorer as they accumulated three more wides as Jack Doyle extended Windgaps' lead to 2-12 to 0-12.

After Regan Downey got the next score from a free for the Fenians, 2-12 to 0-13, after Eoin O’Shea overcarried, Billy Power pointed two late frees to give Bearna an Gaoithe a 2-14 to 0-13 victory when an réiteoir Séan McMahon called time.

The result saw Windgap take the two league points as the sides approach their fourth-round games with John Lockes and Graiguenamangh, respectively, as a place in this year's league final has probably passed both sides by.

For the record, the County Senior quarter Final in 1972, was won by the Fenians by 2-19 to 3-11, as they went on to take their second county title.

After today’s play, there is still a strong hurling pride, ethic and skill base in both clubs who aspire to get back up the ladder later on in the year. For Fr. Fergus Farrell, a former

Séan Purcell Windgap breaks up a Fenians attack

Fenians player of the time, and now the Windgap Dunnamaggin P.P. there will be another day in the forthcoming knockout championship fare for his loyalties to be tested.

TEAMS Bearna na Gaoithe; Eoin O’Shea, Peter Landy, Willie Phelan, Sean Foley, Pat Power, Séan Purcell, Darragh O’Shea, Killian Enright, Billy Power 0-8, 0-6 frees, James Power 1-2, Jack Doyle 0-2, Padraic Foley, Conor Doyle 0-2, Adam O’Shea 1-0, Subs; James Purcell, Pat Grace, Sean Barron.

The Fenians: Darragh Tobin, Eoghan Summer, Seán Brennan, Padraig O’Grady, Jerry Henderson, Rory Garrett 0-2, 0-1 free, Paddy McCormack, Adam Duggan 0-1, Willie Brennan 0-5 0-3 frees, Mark Hughes, Kieran Grehan 0-1, Regan Downey, Séan Tobin, Conor Tobin 0-3. Cathal Phelan. Subs Darragh McCormack, Shane Curran, John Henderson, Paddy Cullen, Thomas Sharkey Réiteoir Séan McMahon An scór deireanach from St. Johns Park Bearna na Gaoithe 1-14 Na Fíníní 13 points

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

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Hurling matters - Review

Sport

Tj Reid in possession as hes held

by Tomas Dunne

Brian Cody gets in his tackle on Bill Gaffney

Shamrocks march on!

Aylward’s men look hungry for success in Sash victory

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League - Round 3 Shamrocks Ballyhale 2-26 Tullaroan 1-20 John Locke Park played host to the top two sides in Group B of the 2026 St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League last Saturday afternoon as Shamrocks Ballyhale locked horns with Tullaroan. With both teams two from two, something was bound to give in Callan, and it would be Mark Aylward’s men that maintained their 100% start to this season’s campaign, running out 9-point winners. Having gone goal crazy a week earlier, the South Kilkenny side only raised two green flags in this victory, but veteran TJ Reid rolled back the years and delivered a supreme performance, while a return to action for Adrain Mullen was a welcome boost for club and county.

Indeed, it was the legendary stickman that got the scoreboard moving in Callan, converting his first placed ball effort of the day following a foul on Jake Mullen. The youngest of Clan Mullen, then fired over a tidy score as his side went two up after four minutes of the round 3 clash. Tullaroan got off the mark thanks to a free from Mossy Keoghan a minute later. Having been the main protagonist in the win over O’Loughlin Gaels, Niall Shortall fired

over a point, coming off TJ’s shoulder and collecting the ball nicely. Former intercounty star Padraig Walsh then sent over a cracking score, reminding everyone of his quality when coming from deep. The next score was warmly received by the Shamrocks supporters in attendance. The ball broke and Adrian Mullen ran onto it before splitting the posts with his effort, welcome back Adrian The was a break in play as Conor Phelan received some medical attention, but unfortunately for him, he couldn’t continue and was replaced by Michael Barron for the second game running. When play resumed, the next score was a classy one, Darragh Corcoran firing over from halfway. The Shamrocks lead was then extended to four points, thanks to TJ taking a catch before turning onto his left and striking over. Tullaroan’s main man in the scoring stakes so far this season, Dylan Simpson then sent over a lovely score, and from the restart The Sash won the ball and with a couple of passes, the sliotar was moved to Simpson, result, another score for Dave Mulcahy’s charges. The next two scores came from the Shamrocks.

TJ again, took the catch, dummied on his left and fired over. Then Adrian Mullen collected possession and struck over from a tight angle.

Tullaroan then almost raised a green flag at the midway point of the first half. Mossy Keoghan looked set to score, but Dean Mason was more than equal to it, but the ball rebounded to Gearoid Dunne who popped it over. Aother score followed, a second of the contest for Padraig Walsh, the gap down to just 2 points. The busy Brian Cody then got his first of the game following some lovely play from Joey Holden and Evan Shefflin. From the puckout, Gearoid Dunne got on the ball and

Jake Mullen Knocks Over a Shamrocks Point as hes challenged by Joe Coughlan

gave a good pass to Mossy, who notched his second of the afternoon.

Another of Shamrocks grafters, Liam Barron was found by Cody and took a nice score with about ten minutes of the half remaining. Liam, the scorer, became Liam the assister as he found Jake Mullen who pivoted beautifully to his left before striking over.

Now four points down again, The

Sash hit two on the bounce, both from the inform Dylan Simpson, firstly a placed ball effort then a lovely one off his left side. Brian Cody responded for his side after nice play from Darragh Corcoran and Richie Reid. The next score was a great one, Bill Gaffney rifling over from midfield to the delight of his side’s supporters in Callan. Niall

Adrian Mullen drives forward chased by Tommy Walsh

Shortall then showed his worth, taking a decent hit from a defender before composing himself to score.

Fresh from his 5-point haul last time out, Tullaroan keeper Niall Holland then struck over from some 100 yards out, but the last point of an entertaining half came from Adrian Mullen, who was set up nicely by younger brother Jake to leave Mark Aylward’s side four ahead at the interval.

The second period was barely 2 minutes old when the first goal of the game arrived. Tomas Dunne fouled TJ and referee Julian O’Dwyer awarded a free. TJ as per usual stood over the placed ball, about 20 yards out, but just when everyone was marking down a point for Reid, TJ surprised many and struck a fierce shot to the Tullaroan net.

Shamrocks seven up, and this was about to be eight, as Richie Reid dispatched a lovely effort between The Sash posts. A response was needed, and it came immediately from Dylan Simpson who was played in, and despite the angle being tight, the sharpshooter rifled his effort past Dean Mason. From the puckout, John Walton took possession and struck over a wonderful point. Another ball into the danger zone from Shamrocks resulted in Tomas Dunne fouling TJ once more; TJ popped over the free and that was the cue for a change in marker for the legendary Reid.

Tommy Walsh, back from a horrible cruciate injury, took up the thankless task while Tomas Dunne moved onto Adrian Mullen.

The more attacking of the Dunne brothers, Gearoid then popped over a point from the edge of the ‘D’, but again the opposition got the next score, A third of the day for Adrian Mullen who flicked the sliotar past his man before striking over. Mossy Keoghan then set up Peter Walsh whose effort reduced the arrears to four once more, but the Shamrocks hit the next two points, Ronan Corcoran and Brian Cody the scorers.

Adrian Mullen was then replaced by Eoin Cody, a good 40 minutes under the belt of the former All-Star who will be a huge asset to his club for the remainder of the campaign. Dylan Simpson continued his crusade and added another point to his tally while Niall Shortall set up Jake Mullan for a quality score. TJ Reid then hit a trio of scores, a ‘65 and two frees following fouls on the lively Shortall.

Jake Mullen was then replaced and was given a fine reception by the Shamrocks faithful. Tullaroan, with an 8-point deficit needed goals, but it was points that came, three on the spin with efforts from Dylan Simpson, Peter Walsh and Mossy Keoghan all on target as the gap was reduced to five with about 2 minutes of normal time remaining in John Locke Park. Shamrocks hardest working player on the day, Brian Cody then fired over another score and Shortall followed suit with his last point of the game, the only response from The Sash was again a point from Dylan Simpson. With six points separating the sides with the contest in injury time, the icing was put on the cake when Richie Reid’s searching delivery was flicked on by brother TJ and Niall Shortall blasted bast Niall Holland for his sides second goal. Game, set and match to Shamrocks Ballyhale. Final Score: Shamrocks 2-26, Tullaroan 1-20

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

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Hurling matters - Round up

Sport

Paul Cody helped Clara to first win

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League With three rounds of the 2026 St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League done and dusted, the group stages will be completed over the next eight days, and it will be a big week for many teams jockeying for position. Along with Shamrocks Ballyhale, Thomastown and Graigue Ballycallan are the other sides with an impeccable record as we pause for breath.

Noel Doherty’s team made light work of Glenmore at the home of the Vegas Boys, with Robbie Donnelly once again leading the charge. Jack Holden raised the green flag just after the break to give his side a commanding 9-point lead, while John Donnelly and Daithi Barron were also prominent for the 2024 County champions. Glenmore had to rely on captain Ian Byrne for many scores, and they never looked troubling the ‘Town in this one.

Graigue Ballycallan secured their third win in as many games when they got the better of Mullinavat in an entertaining fixture in Thomastown. The sky blues had Aaron McEvoy’s accuracy to thank as their top scorer notched an impressive 1-12 in a 6-point win that had telling contributions from Jesse Roberts and Conor Glynn. When Conor Power goaled for the ‘Vat after 13 minutes, that gave The Vegas Boys a 6-point lead, and they were five clear at the short whistle. A 1-4 salvo outscoring Timmy four to one. from McEvoy tied things up, and Ben Whitty top scored for the GBC pushed on to register another ‘Fort while Fionn Mahony victory. did well also, but things are O’Loughlin Gaels bounced back looking bleak for last season’s from their defeat to Shamrocks by intermediate champions. thumping Erin’s Own in Muckalee.

Another team to get Midfielder Conor Kelly was on top maximum points at the third form, hitting 1-17, just a point less time of asking was Clara who than the ‘Comer men’s total, as edged Bennettsbridge by his side racked up an impressive two points in Gowran. The 4-34. Corner men, Cian Byrne and Maroon-clad side just about Robbie Buckley notched 5-8 deserved the win, with between them as Brian Conor O’Shea (0Hogan’s outfit got 8) and Paul Cody back to winning Robbie (0-3) leading the ways. Conor Donnelly was way. Kilkenny McMahon in great form underage star again stood Rory Glynn up for sparkled Erin’s Own, also, hitting hitting 1-2. The 2-2 from loss of midfield Conor Cody but they to a red card will be in injury aware that only Danesfort are below them as round’s four and five approach.

Dicksboro registered their first win of this season’s campaign when they blitzed a Danesfort side that are finding life tough at the top table on Liam Noreside. Harry Shine gave a great Blanchfield performance, hitting 1-6, while scored a Patrick Lacey had 1-3 to his name stunner but from the bench. Shane Stapleton Bridge beaten weighed in with 0-8, while Anthony again won the battle of the Cliffords,

Boro & Clara big winners with two rounds to go

Danesfort and Bennettsbridge in trouble while trio of teams remain unbeaten

Jamie Ryan hit 0-5 in Loughs rout of Erin’s Own

time didn’t prevent Clara grinding out the victory. Liam Blanchfield struck a stunning goal for the losers, but it is worrying times for the ‘Bridge as they go into the final two rounds of games with nothing to show for their efforts.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought by Andrew Glennon for development at Friary Walk, Clashacollare, Callan, Co. Kilkenny.

The development will consist of the construction of a 66-unit residential estate, comprising: 36 no. semi-detached 4-bedroom 2-storey houses; 14 no. semi-detached 3-bedroom 2-storey houses; 2 no. detached 3-bedroom single-storey house; 2 no. 2-storey terraced blocks containing 1 no. 3-bedroom mid-terrace townhouses and 2 no. end-of-terrace 3-bedroom townhouses each; and 2 no. 2-storey maisonette apartment block containing 4 no. 2-bedroom apartments each. Other works as part of the development will include: (a) connection to infrastructure works, adjoining foul sewers, water mains and all utilities permitted under planning references, 99/1809, 10/458, 16/186, 20/189, and 25/60269; and (b) site boundary treatments, open spaces, landscaping and all associated site development works. The site is accessed via the existing residential development known as ‘Friary Walk’.

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

Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny.

Tel No: 056-7753933.

Web: www.gmarch.net.

I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Roisin and Gary Neville for the following works: - Retention planning permission of existing storage and stables building - Full Planning permission to demolish existing structures to rear of dwelling and construct an extension to rear of dwelling, upgrade wastewater system to current EPA Guidelines and all other associated site works at Ballintee, Dunnamaggin, Co. Kilkenny R95 A2R7 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 Danganmore Farms Ltd C/O Jim Hickey hereby applies to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the construction of an agricultural shed comprising underground slatted slurry storage tank and all associated site works at Danganmore, Dunnamaggin, 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 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 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.

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Patricia Carey for the following works: - Retention planning permission of existing domestic storage building - Full Planning permission to construct a single storey granny flat extension to side of dwelling, upgrade wastewater treatment system to current EPA guidelines and all associated site works at Westcourt North, Callan, Co. Kilkenny R95 E2P1 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.

TO PUBLISH A PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street | Telephone: 056 777 1463 / 086 239 5370 | Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st August 2026

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

St. Anthony Prayer

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.R..

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.

St. Anthony Prayer

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen P.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.R.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. R.P.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. P.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. F.D.

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Classifieds

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

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