Kilkenny Observer 21 March 2025

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 21st March 2025

GPs In Crisis Top Kilkenny medic warns of apocalypse  News page 6

Tel: 056 777 1463 E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie W: kilkennyobserver.ie

What A Shower!

Need to come clean on time cleaning ourselves  Health page18

2

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

EVERY FRIDAY

GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM SALES E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie T: 087 382 0109 or 087 342 1958 EDITOR E: editor@kilkennyobserver.ie SPORTS E: sportseditor@kilkennyobserver.ie

3

kilkennyobserver.ie

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

The Kilkenny

Observer The Garda Force is with us kilkennyobserver.ie

Our county among few to get extra Gardaí as we gain six new members

Kilkenny is among few areas throughout Ireland that has had more Gardaí added to its contingent, with the addition of six more members.

Almost a quarter of the country’s 560-plus Garda stations had fewer Gardaí at the end of 2024 than at the start of the year, despite an overall increase in the size of the force.

One in 10 stations are also

now ­ without a designated Garda, as the number of small rural stations without an assigned officer increased by nine to 56 last year.

An Irish Independent analysis of official figures on Garda staffing levels published by the Department of Justice shows 129 of 567 Garda stations recorded a reduction in the number of gardaí assigned to

them during 2024 – 23% of all stations around the country.

It also shows that a majority of garda stations – 322, or 57% had no change in their staffing levels last year. It also reveals that 116 stations – 20% – recorded an increase in Garda personnel.

There were also several other stations where a decrease in staffing levels of 10 or more

were recorded including ­ aterford (-16); Cahir (-14); W and Thurles (-12).

The reduction in staffing levels at those stations during 2024 arose at a time when overall numbers in the force rose by 1.4% over the same period.

An Garda Síochána grew last year, with a net increase of 193 Gardaí to bring total numbers to 14,191.

When the number of Gardaí not available for work due to career breaks, maternity leave, work-sharing, secondments and paternity leave were excluded, the strength of the force recorded a net increase of 206 to reach 13,979 – an annual increase of 1.5%.

Despite this, the number of frontline Gardaí attached to the network of 567 stations

The Moon shines on our women

Network Ireland Kilkenny celebrated International Women’s Day with an event entitled Celestial Women: Brave, Nurturing, and Inclusive Leadership on Wednesday, March 12, at St Canice’s Cathedral.

Set beneath the aweinspiring touring artwork Museum Of The Moon by Luke Jerram, the evening featured a fireside chat with three inspiring local businesswomen guided by special guest MC Chupi

Sweetman. Ms Sweetman is the founder of the Irish jewellery brand Chupi.

Part of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Alumni, she is one of Ireland’s leading female founders.

Ms Sweetman was joined by three accomplished local entrepreneurs, Denise Walsh, CEO of CurlyCo and Rustiq Salon; Dr Toluwani Akaehomen, a leadership, learning, and people development consultant; and

Ella Dunphy, IPAV council member and director of DNG Ella Dunphy.

Full story Special Report Page 14 PHOTO: PJ Browne

€10.6m cocaine bust in Kilkenny An estimated €10.6 million worth of cocaine was found in a lorry in Co. Kilkenny on Tuesday, March 18. A 60-year-old man has been arrested.

Gardaí found 152kg of the drug in a “sophisticated vehicle concealment” after the HGV was stopped on the M9 near Paulstown shortly after 10am.

The lorry had to be brought to Dublin Port because the drugs were hidden so deeply in it.

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

They were discovered behind a refrigerated unit after customs officers used a specialised X-ray machine.

Searches were also carried out at two business premises and a residential address in Waterford.

The 60-rear-old man, known as ‘The Vet’, is being held at a Garda station in the Eastern region.

According to RTE’s Crime Correspondent Paul Reynolds,

the man is a major figure in organised crime in the South East with links to Dublin and South American drugs gangs and has been a target of the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB) for some time.

Gardaí from GNDOCB and Waterford carried out searches as part of Operation Tara.

Revenue Customs Service, the Garda Dog Unit and the Stolen Vehicle Unit also assisted..

Assistant Commissioner Angela Willis [pictured] of the Organised and Serious Crime Unit, who has warned business people about working with crime gangs, said that the seizure was a “further example of An Garda Síochána’s commitment to target the enablers and facilitators of organised crime”.

She urged people to report any suspicious activity to the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111.

fell from 12,045 to 11,928 over the 12-month period a net decrease of 117.

A Garda spokesperson said: that “for operational reasons, An Garda Síochána does not comment on current or future deployment and allocation of resources”.

Meanwhile, another 252 recruits begin training next week at Templemore.

The buys and the black stuff More pints of Guinness can be bought from your pay packet today because pay rises are outstripping the rises imposed on pub-goers, a new index indicates.

The latest Guinness Index, produced by online savings platform Raisin Bank, found the average ­weekly wage can now buy 168 pints.

This is four more pints than the average weekly wage would have bought last year.

But it is still down on the number of “jars” a weekly pay packet bought in 2007, when the stout-to-wage ratio peaked.

If a drinker had spent all their weekly wages on stout in 2007, they could have ordered 196 pints.

Spain is to scrap daylight savings Spain is to scrap daylight saving time.

While the change is officially set to take effect in 2026, there is a possibility that the date could be moved forward if expats and residents in the Canary Islands reach an agreement.

Discussions about ending the biannual clock change have been ongoing for years, particularly as the Canary Islands currently operate on a time zone one hour behind mainland Spain.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

4

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News

This will raise the hair on your head Kilkenny Musical Society is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual production, and this year’s show promises to be one of the most entertaining and vibrant performances yet! With excitement building around the opening night in just four weeks time, Legally Blonde: The Musical is set to hit the stage, and tickets are already selling fast!

Dates are April 9-12 at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on April 12 and 13.

Tickets are €25 each.

Based on the hit 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon, Legally Blonde: The Musical tells the story of Elle Woods, a bubbly, fashion-forward sorority girl who decides to enrol at Harvard Law School to win back her ex-boyfriend.

Along the way, she discovers that there’s more to life than pink outfits and designer handbags.

With sharp humour, endearing characters, and a powerful message of self-discovery and empowerment, this musical is a fun-filled experience for audiences of all ages.

Following on from their outstanding production of The Sound of Music last year, which brought audiences to ovation during its week long run, Kilkenny Musical Society has assembled an exceptional cast, whose

“Based on the hit 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon...

comedic timing and heartfelt performances will have you laughing one moment and touched by the show’s deeper emotional moments the next.

Newcomers to the society Jenna Dunphy and Jordan Bass star as Elle & Emmett.

Nicola Brennan, Leah Comerford, Sarah Brennan,

Rachel Leydon, Emma Walsh, current Kilkenny Rose Lisa O’ Rourke & Declan Taylor are just some of the other supremely talented cast

members who are sure to wow audiences with their performances.

Of course, no musical would be complete without a

memorable score — and Legally Blonde delivers in spades. With a mix of upbeat, infectious songs and beautiful ballads, the music will sweep you off your feet. The vibrant songs, including Omigod You Guys and Bend And Snap, will stay with you long after you leave the theatre.

With its blend of comedy, emotion, incredible dancing, and catchy tunes, this year’s production is set to be one of the most talked-about shows of the year.

Tickets available at www. watergatetheatre.com. Follow Kilkenny Musical Society for lots of behind the scenes news and show updates!

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

5

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

6

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News

GP ‘tsunami’ warns local medic Ireland is unique among EU countries where the patient load of GPs has increased in the past decade.

Each GP has an average of 100 extra people in their catchment area due to a surge in population that has not been matched by an equivalent rise in doctors here, according to an investigation by the Journal.ie

Experts say this is exacerbating a primary care crisis, where GPs are firefighting to treat ageing and growing communities who are finding it more difficult to get access to care.

“Over a protracted period... the health of the population will be eroded,” Tadhg Crowley, an Associate Professor in General Practice

at UCD, told the Journal.ie.

Mr Crowley runs a medical practice in Kilkenny City.

The shortage comes as Ireland is “in the middle of a health tsunami,” according to Mr Crowley. This is not only due an ageing population but also an obesity crisis which “lends itself to increased chronic disease”.

Ireland’s population grew

by over 630,000 in the 10 years between 2014 and 2023.

To maintain the same patient load, GP numbers should have grown by almost 600 in that period, but instead just 176 additional doctors were working in surgeries around the country.

GP numbers fluctuated in the past decade, peaking

at over 4,800 in 2018 before dropping again. This stood at just over 4,500 clinicallyactive doctors working as GPs in 2023, according to the latest Medical Council workforce report.

Europe overall is facing a shortage of doctors across all specialisations and the deficit of general practitioners is a particular problem.

In eight EU countries there was a decrease in the number of people per GP. Elodie Brunel, Vice-President of the Société Scientifique de Médecine Générale in Belgium. said: “We estimate 800/900 patients [per year] per doctor is the threshold beyond which it becomes difficult to function.”

egories plus one category reserved exclusively for young artists with additional needs, will be announced in mid-April.

Now celebrating its 71st year, the Texaco Children’s Art Competition is the

longest-running art sponsorship in Ireland. First held in 1955, it is hosted

by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited – the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand.

€1.7m. is paid out to the relatives of Covid healthcare workers who died The relatives of healthcare workers in Ireland who died after catching Covid-19 in the course of their job have been paid €1.7m in compensation by the State, according to new figures. special ex-graThe tia scheme involving a payment of €100,000 is now closed five years after the pandemic was declared.

The Covid-19 death-inservice scheme was approved by the Government in March 2022.

It provides for relatives of eligible healthcare workers who died having contracted Covid-19 during the course of their work to receive a lump-sum payment of €100,000.

A spokesman for the Department of Health said Pobal is responsible for the administration of the scheme for healthcare workers on behalf of the department.

“Pobal has received 20 applications in respect of the scheme. Pobal are awaiting further documentation from one applicant and two applications have been recently submitted to the Department from Pobal recommending payment,” the spokesman said.

“To date, 17 applications have been approved for payment by the Minister for Health and subsequently paid. The total amount in respect of claims which has been paid is €1.7m.

“The estimated number eligible for the payment is 20 and the scheme was formally closed by former Minister of Health Stephen Donnelly on December 5, 2024.”

Separately, the State Claims Agency has received 73 wrongful death claims in respect of Covid-19 recorded across hospitals, nursing homes, HSE locations including community healthcare locations, Covid vaccine programme locations and the Health Infor-

mation and Quality Authority (Hiqa).

Of these, 23 have been finalised and no damages have been paid. No payments are outstanding in respect of any of these claims.

There have been more than 9,500 Covid-related deaths since the start of the pandemic.

The majority of these deaths occurred during the first two pandemic waves in 2020 and 2021. The highest weekly number of deaths were notified in a week in April 2020, with 273 deaths.

In the second wave, the highest weekly number of deaths were notified in late January 2021, with 441 deaths.

The highest number of Covid-related deaths was in 2021 when 3,827 people died.

In an update, the Covid19 Evaluation – Ireland’s non-statutory answer to a Covid inquiry – said that in the last few weeks it has been focused on preparatory work and scaling up its team. It is chaired by Professor Anne Scott.

It said that in line with its phased programme of work, the chair has sought initial overview information from government departments and key agencies who were directly involved in Ireland’s management of the pandemic.

“This evidence will support the Evaluation in forming a factual account of the overall strategy and approach to the planning and handling of the pandemic. It will also provide foundation information for considering lessons learned,” it said.

It is starting background work into the extensive and often unequal impacts of the pandemic, as a precursor to wide-ranging public consultation and engagement, which will take place over the coming weeks and months.

Art for art’s sake...

Young artists who submitted entries to this year’s Texaco Children’s Art Competition are currently having their works evaluated as the judging process gets underway.

Pictured is preliminary

adjudicator, Tara ButlerFrey admiring one of the entries received from Kilkenny this year – a work entitled ‘Sonic’ by a pupil from Kilkenny City Vocational School.

Winners in six age cat-

Dumping sees Ferrybank bottle bank close After a comprehensive review of Bring Bank locations, Kilkenny County Council has decided to remove the bottle bank from Ferrybank due to ongoing issues with unlawful dumping at the site. This decision, says the council, reflects an ongoing commitment to keeping our communities tidy and promoting responsible waste disposal.

The council apologies for any inconvenience caused in the interim period.

Recognising the need for a more suitable location, the council is exploring options to relocate the bottle bank to enhance its accessibil-

ity and usability while reducing instances of littering and misuse. The new location will be announced as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, the council encourage residents to utilise the nearby Civic Amenity Site in Granny, just a five-minute drive away. The Civic Amenity Site offers a wide range of services, including recycling for various materials, ensuring residents have the opportunity to dispose of their waste responsibly.

In addition to the Civic Amenity Site, the council says it would like to remind residents that there are other

Bring Banks available in neighbouring areas, including Kilmacow, Glenmore, and Slieverue. These locations provide convenient options for recycling glass and other materials.

The Civic Amenity Site in Granny features a wide array of materials accepted, including glass, plastics, paper, household hazardous waste, garden waste, and electronic waste.

It is easily accessible and hosts facilities that allow residents to recycle responsibly at their convenience.

Granny Recycling offers a wide range of recycling ser-

vices and helps reduce clutter at home as well as ensure the proper disposal of hazardous waste and bulky items that cannot be disposed of in our regular refuse bins.

Visit www.grannyrecycling. ie for more information on the items you can dispose of there. * For more information about our recycling services or to find a Bring Bank near you, please visit our website at www.kilkennycoco.ie/ eng/services/environment/ or contact us at environment@kilkennycoco.ie or phone: 056 779 4470.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

7

kilkennyobserver.ie

News

Kilkenny School Project Heads to National Final of Credit Union Schools Quiz St. Canice's Credit Union Kilkenny is delighted to announce that the Kilkenny School Project team has advanced to the National Final of the Credit Union Schools Quiz. The team, consisting of Emma Donovan Peces, Neasa Hutton, Levi Wise Barry, and Ella Rose Delaney, will represent their school and the Credit Union at the prestigious event in the RDS, Dublin, on Sunday, April 6th, 2025.

The team’s remarkable achievement follows their success as runners-up in the highly competitive first stage of the quiz, which saw 36 teams participating. These significant accomplishments in the first two rounds have now led them to the national final, where they will compete at the highest level.

"We are incredibly proud of the Kilkenny School Project team and their achievement in reaching the national finals," said Jackie Kealy, Marketing Officer and Quiz Coordinator at St. Canice's Credit Union.

"This is a testament to their impressive general knowledge, and we wish them the very best of luck as they compete at the highest level."

The Credit Union Schools Quiz is an annual event, showcasing the quizzing prowess of students from across Ireland. It provides a platform for young minds to engage in friendly competition while fostering a spirit of community and teamwork.

St. Canice's Credit Union Kilkenny

8

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Ordinary mothers who prove extra-ordinary The celebrating of mothers and motherhood can be traced back to the Greeks and Romans, who held festivals in honour of the mother goddesses Rhea and Cybele, but the clearest modern precedent for Mother’s Day is the early Christian festival known as Mothering Sunday.

Once a major tradition here and in parts of Europe, this celebration fell on the fourth Sunday in Lent – like it does now – and was originally seen as a time when the faithful would return to their ‘mother church’ for a special service.

Over time the Mothering Sunday tradition evolved into a more secular holiday, and children would present their mothers with flowers and other tokens of appreciation.

This custom eventually faded in popularity before merging with the American Mother’s Day in the 1930s and 1940s, although in the US it is celebrated in June.

Did you know more phone

calls are made globally on Mother’s Day than any other day of the year?

My maternal grandmother died when my mother was just five, so she never had a lifetime to know her. When I came into this world, the first of three, and work took my father away a lot, my paternal grandmother came to call for an afternoon of china-cupped tea and cucumber sandwiches with the crusts cut off.

My mother was thrilled to have another woman, a mother-like figure, visit, at what was an anxious time, and when she was leaving my dear mother said to her: “Please come any time. Don’t wait to be invited.”

To which my grandmother replied: “Listen here, I raised eight — I am not about to rear a ninth.”

And from that day ‘til the day she died 26 years later the Old Bat never once darkened our door again. It goes without saying that my late mother did a wonderful job rearing me

and my two siblings. The very epitome of good nurturing.

Mothers come in all shapes and sizes and degrees of ‘old batdom’. There are professional, or homemaker ones, in broad terms or fashionable, pious, simple, strict, soft, conservative, modern and, nowadays, cool mums. There are mums, moms, mams and mammies, not to mention mummy, yummy or not, The Ma or the Old Dear.

“I raised eight - I am not about to rear a ninth...

My own mother was not necessarily of those traits that mark celebrity in that she never wrote a book, nor composed a song, nor won a Nobel Prize, nor made a movie nor had her name writ large in lights, nor caused an international stir. My mother was so ordinary that she was, dare I say, extra ordinary. That’s it — my mother was an Extraordinary Mother. Like most good mothers are, unquestioning and unflinching in their love for their children. A mother’s love.

And, of course, ‘grown’ “don’t mean nothing to a mother”, as the novelist Toni Morrison put it in her award-winning book Beloved. “A child is a child.

They get bigger, older, but grown? What’s that suppose to mean? In my heart it don’t mean a thing,” wrote Morrison.

My own three ‘children’ now ‘grown’ into confident and competent young adults are testimony to the love their mother bestowed on them and

there exists between them a bond that is unknowable to me and which I can never hope to be part of. But I guess that comes with the father territory.

The late Seamus Heaney said his father was notably sparing of talk but that his mother “notably ready to speak out”, a circumstance which the poet believed to have been fundamental to the “quarrel with himself” out of which his poetry arose.

I like to think the novelist Washington Irving had it succinctly when he wrote: “A mother is the truest friend we have when trials, heavy and sudden, fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends who rejoice with us in our sunshine desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavour by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”

But let’s leave the last lines

to Oscar Wilde: “All women become like their mothers.

That is their tragedy. No man does. That’s his.’

Affairs of the Heart (And Other Writings) by Paul Hopkins (Monument Media Press, €14.99), ‘a collection of stories to warm the emotions and light the soul’, is available at select book stores and from monumentmediapress.com

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

9

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement

10

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News

Skip and hop into Spring this April for LauraLynn LauraLynn, Ireland’s Children’s Hospice is delighted to share it’s exciting spring challenge. The challenge invites people in Kilkenny to do 100 skips a day every day in April to help raise vital funds for children with life limiting illnesses and their families.

In this exciting, sponsored challenge participants commit to getting out their

skipping rope every day for the month of April and skipping 100 times.

Those who sign up to the challenge will receive a free skipping rope, as well as their own sponsorship page.

Funds raised from the 100 Skips a Day challenge will help LauraLynn provide essential care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families

from all over the country.

LauraLynn Fundraising Executive Ciara Donnelly shares why this challenge is so important: "Funds raised from the ‘100 Skips a Day’ challenge help us to provide life changing care and support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families all around Ireland.

"We are asking people to

Cash still king for special presents As families across Ireland prepare for Communion and Confirmation season, new research from An Post Money confirms that cash still leads the way as the gift of choice for these milestone occasions. Cash remains the top choice for Communion and Confirmation gifting as a practical yet thoughtful gift that is here to stay.

According to the survey, conducted by Empathy Research, more than half (56%) of Irish adults gift €50 or more to a niece or nephew for their Communion or Confirmation, while a generous two-thirds of consumers would give the same amount to a godchild.

In contrast, €20 is the go-to gifting amount for a family friend’s child, with 42% choosing this sum for Communions and 37% for Confirmations .

Speaking on the prevalence of cash for these occasions, Brendan Moran, Director of Distribution – Retail at An Post said: “Communions and Confirmations are significant moments in a child’s life, and cash has always been a valued and practical gift, offering recipients the chance to save up for a big purchase. These milestones are often a child’s first experience of managing money. Our research confirms that despite digital advancements, Irish families continue to trust and rely on cash to mark these special occasions."

The research also revealed that cash is not just the gift of

choice for Communions and Confirmation celebrations, with 38% of Irish adults choosing cash as their gift of choice across all occasions, particularly birthday gifting: • 80% (four in five) of 35-44-year-olds would opt for cash for a child’s birthday • Two in five adults (40%) always gift cash for a teenager’s birthday.

• Half of adults prefer cash as a present for an adult’s birthday The research also provided insights to gifting habits around weddings in Ireland, with one in three adults stating the appropriate amount of cash to give as a wedding gift is €100 per person.

• A further 36% believe the appropriate amount to gift is between €100 - €200 • 55-64-year-olds are happiest to splash the cash on a wedding with 17% of this cohort gifting at least €200 per person Despite the rise of digital payments, 82% of Irish adults keep emergency cash on hand, with nearly half carrying at least €50 for unforeseen situations . Additionally, the study found that: • 1 in 3 consumers (31%) prefer cash over card to avoid transaction fees.

• While 1 in 4 people use cash for budgeting purposes.

• And 41% of consumers say they would spend less if they could only use cash for a week

raise funds through sponsorship and take some time out of their day to do their 100 skips a day in April.”

Skipping is ideal for all fitness levels and improves cardiovascular health, burns calories, enhances co-ordination, and strengthens muscles. Participants can take part anywhere they like, either alone or in a group.

Participants can share their

experiences and photos on social media using the hashtag #TeamLauraLynn and join the dedicated Facebook group to connect with others taking part in the challenge. * For more information or to register go to www.lauralynn.ie/100-skips-a-dayin-April or contact Ciara on challenges@lauralynn.ie.

Me and my Teddy Bear Mother and daughter Catherine White with daughter Layla during the St Patrick’s Day Parade at Kilkenny City, supporting The Good Shepherd Centre who help the homeless.

We'd say Ted and Layla slept well that night!

PHOTO: Patrick Browne

Celebrating 20 years of hip preservation This year marks a significant milestone for Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Specialist in Hip Preservation Surgery, Mr Patrick Carton MD FRCS FFSEM [pictured], as his renowned practice celebrates its 20th anniversary. In the past two decades – 16 years of which have been situated in UPMC Waterford – Mr Carton has committed his expertise and efforts into providing the highest quality of care to patients suffering from painful hips, helping them maintain their mobility, live pain-free lives, and promoting overall health and wellness in our communities.

An area of particular interest and focus for Mr Carton, over the past 20 years, has been hip preservation, and specifically hip arthroscopy (key-hole hip surgery). This is a very specialised area of orthopaedic surgery which he has been at the fore of developing. It is a minimally inva-

sive surgical approach which can have enormous positive implications for sufferers of a painful hip.

The goal of surgery is to repair rather than replace the damaged structures and ultimately delay or eliminate the need for a future hip replacement.

The hip joint consists of the femoral head (ball) and acetabulum (socket) and in a healthy hip the ball moves and rotates smoothly within the socket during activity.

Hip impingement, or femoro-acetabular impingement

(FAI), is a condition where the shape of the ball and/ or socket of the hip joint becomes more irregular shape resulting in abnormal contact and restriction during movement/activity.

Progressive FAI can result in symptoms of pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, and decreased ability to engage in sports or other activities of daily living, and over time causes irreversible damage to the cartilage of the hip joint, leading to osteoarthritis.

Importantly, age is not necessarily a factor. While the potential for symptoms to develop can occur earlier in athletes and those physically active (a large bulk of the footfall through the clinic over the past 20 years) due to the increased demands placed upon the hip, the condition can also present in more sedentary individuals.

Concomitant pathologies such as dysplasia (a shallow hip socket) can also

present alongside FAI and the techniques Mr Carton has evolved throughout the years has shown similar excellent results for these more difficult cases.

Clinician and community knowledge and understanding of FAI has improved significantly over the past 20 years.

While the indications for surgery have evolved, so too has the surgical technique, and a cornerstone of this evolution, and development of the most cutting-edge techniques provided by The Hip Preservation Institute is rooted in prospective research into this area, as well as continuous and transparent publishing of results.

Mr Carton’s practice is one of the few centres worldwide with the ability to publish long-term outcomes, with follow-up, patient-reported data from more than 3,800 operated hip-preservation cases.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

11

Advertisement

12

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Golden daffodils can have that Midas touch As though to resolve the argument about when Spring starts a dozen daffodils opened their trumpets in my garden on St Bridget’s Day. Snowdrops may have grabbed the headlines for February as the stars of Co. Carlow’s Snowdrop Gala but daffodils have a longer season, from February through to May. They are tops in floral inspiration for poets from Shakespeare to Wordsworth with his ‘host of golden daffodils’. Despite their frequent appearances in print though, they aren’t native to these islands but were introduced from Mediterranean countries like Spain and Portugal by the Tudors in the 15th Century.

Gardeners love daffodils: AKA Narcissus, there are now more than 13,000 varieties, divided into 12 different groups with poetic names like Tazetta (Little Cup).

While 90% of cut flowers bought here are imported, Irish-grown daffodils are turning the tables. A million daffodils a week grown at Elmgrove Flower Farm are exported to New York and European cities, including bulb capital Amsterdam. The story of how Darragh McCullough’s farm at Gormanstown, Co. Meath, became Ireland’s largest flower farm, producing 13 million stems of flowers and foliage a year, suggest that those golden daffodils have a Midas touch.

Darragh’s father Eamon began growing daffodils to produce bulbs alongside crops like onions on their 100 acre mixed farm. “Then he realised he had a second crop and we began selling daffodils in calf buckets by the side of the road until the end of April,” Darragh laughs.

The next step to build on this springtime bonus was to extend the season with

other flowers from peonies to dahlias until there was a year round supply of blooms.

One thing led to another: 18 months ago, Darragh opened a successful farm shop, with coffee, food and all kinds of activities from PYO daffodils to school visits.

Co. Kilkenny has its own daffodil success story, the Daffodil and Bulb Farm produce an amazing two million bunches of daffodils on a 500-acre family farm for export to cities from New York to Paris. The firm also specialise in supplying as many as 100,000 blooms for weddings and corporate events and sell bulbs harvested in June, specially processed and ready for planting in September.

Daffodil breeders Dave and Jules Hardy helped to put Irish daffodils on the map last year when the Irish Daffodil Convention centred in Ulster near their daffodil farm in Co. Tyrone.

“Co. Kilkenny has its own daffodil success story...

Esker Daffodil Farm builds on a tradition of daffodil breeding stretching back 200 years which began in Co. Cork. The convention, held every four years in different locations, attracted over 60 representatives from as far afield as New Zealand and Australia. Both Dave

and Jules are teachers and a chance meeting at the Enniskillen Gardening Club with daffodil breeder Brian Duncan led to Dave buying his first starter pack of daffodils.

The seeds – or should it be bulbs?– of enthusiasm were sown, and the couple began growing the bulbs on their two-acre farm producing their first daffodil catalogue in 2016 and later incorporated Ringhaddy Daffodils.

They now grow more than 800 varieties, including Irish daffodils with evocative names like Finn McCool, Paddy’s Legacy, Irish Charm, and Causeway Sunset.

Breeding daffodils takes time, Jules explained. From cross-pollination, it takes three to four years for the resulting bulb to mature and produce a flower. If this is a successful hybrid it then takes about 15 years before the results become commercially viable. Growers

may have to make hundreds of crosses before they get a daffodil with the desired features.

While we don’t have daffodil mania here akin to the extraordinary Tulip Mania – a speculative investment bubble which seized Holland in the 1630s – collectors are prepared to pay as much as €80 to €100 a piece for rare and unusual bulbs while special snowdrops can fetch even more.

Generally, though they are an affordable treat. Planted in Autumn at three times the depth of the bulb, daffodils are easy to grow, with the leaves needing to be allowed to die down to feed bulbs The flowers, with their Spring message of brighter days to come, are also the emblem for the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day, to be held on Tuesday, March 25 this year to raise funds to fight cancer and support patients and survivors.

Minding your mind CLAIR WHITTY Whole health– what is that exactly? Well, it’s a balance of physical, mental and spiritual health… but how are they linked and why do they matter? Let’s dive in.

If your physical health isn’t at an optimal level, this can affect your mental health and vice versa. Whether it’s that your energy levels are low because of poor dietary choices and a lack of exercise, or you are sleep deprived, your physical health can greatly impact your mental health.

Serotonin is the ‘happy hormone’ that is responsible for all feelings good and glorious and guess where it’s primarily made? Your gut.

Gut health plays a significant role in our overall health, so it’s essential to prioritise it. Eating fresh, healthy food including fermented food and topping up with a probiotic supplement if needed. Udo’s Super 8 is my go-to probiotic, this can also help to keep your immune

system strong and healthy, and can help energy production which in turn supports mental health.

We all know that stress depletes energy and affects mental health too, but it can be hard to avoid and, in some cases, hard to identify. You may not feel stressed while your body is under stress so sometimes you need to look at your diet and lifestyle to find areas you can improve.

That isn’t always easy, but focus on the basics; sleep, movement, relaxation and nutrition; too much or too little of any of either can create stress within your body.

Supplements that can help include: A Vogel’s Passiflora is excellent for relaxation and helping you to keep calm in

nervous situations.

The Irish Brand Mácanta have a fabulous combination that includes lemon balm, l-theanine, and camomile. It helps to settle an over-active mind and get a satisfying sleep to tackle the day ahead.

Another option is Higher Nature Balance for Nerves which contains B Vitamins, Magnesium, Lemon Balm, Passion Flower, and L-Theanine. Perfect to help reduce stress and anxiety and is a popular choice before exams.

There are lots of amazing natural remedies that can help. Here at Natural Health Store, we all have our favourite remedy and that is fine because none of us are the same. Why not call in for a chat and let us help you mind your mind!

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

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 110

"It’s just a thin layer of soil that feeds us all"

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

13

News

LEO Kilkenny supports showcase offers supports to start up businesses Photo by Vicky Comerford Kilkenny County Council, through its Local Enterprise Office, staged an extensive seminar showcasing the supports and funding opportunities for start-up businesses in Kilkenny, at Hotel Kilkenny on Tuesday 4th March from 9:30am -12 noon as part of Local Enterprise Week 2025.

The event was specifically designed to help entrepreneurs and startup businesses understand and find out more about the services provided by organisations with a remit for enterprise development.

Expert advice was available to inform entrepreneurs about where to start, what supports are available to set up, and how to develop their business both on national and international markets.

A discussion panel with local entrepreneurs took place, hosted by Kieran Cuddihy of Newstalk, to discuss their reallife experiences in the market including Denise Walsh – Curly Co, Richie Walsh – Maximo, Tammi Brennan – Patrick Joseph, and Pat Corcoran – FPK

Engineering.

Speaking at the event Cathaoirleach Cllr. Michael McCarthy said, "Kilkenny County Council is actively working to highlight the support systems available for start-up businesses in Kilkenny through events like the LEO Showcase" adding that "we are so proud of all of home-grown entrepreneurs and we continue to support new start-up businesses in any way that we can."

Aileen McGrath, Head of Enterprise at Kilkenny

County Council noted, “The case study videos launched at the Showcase event display the range and depth of local businesses in Kilkenny and promoters share their entrepreneurship journeys in these video showcase which are available to view at www.localenterprise.ie/ kilkenny” If you have any questions on supports available, please visit the Local Enterprise Office website on www.localenterprise.ie/ kilkenny .

More funding news announced

by Leas Cheann Comhairle, Deputy John McGuinness

Leas Cheann Comhairle, Deputy John McGuinness is delighted to announce that Minister for State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Minister Timmy Dooley, T.D in conjunction with HSI are giving equestrian bodies, societies and show organisations across the equestrian community in 2025 Breeding Grant Scheme.

The following is awarded to Kilkenny Shows.

• Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show €1,500 • Hughes Horse Stud Show €2,500 • Inistioge Show Society €5,500 Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has announced almost €600,000 will be awarded to 86 equestrian bodies, societies and show organisations across the equestrian community in 2025 Breeding Grant Scheme, funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) under National

Breeding Services.

Minister for State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Minister Timmy Dooley, T.D, joined HSI Chief Executive, Denis Duggan, and Head of Breeding, Innovation and Development, Dr. Sonja Egan, in Banner Equestrian Centre, Ennis, Co. Clare, along with a grant awardees representing Scariff Show, Banner Equestrian Centre, Clarecastle Show and the Irish Draught Horse Society to announce the allocation of funds to this year’s worthy recipients.

In total, 86 initiatives will be funded this year from the increased budget of € 595,820 which has risen by close to €80,000 from 2024’s total of €520,000, and will provide considerable support to the equestrian industry around the country. The Breeding Grant Scheme provides prizemoney to an array of young horse classes at shows all over the country.

Head of Breeding, Innovation and Development at Horse Sport Ireland, Dr. Sonja Egan, said: “The Breeding Grant scheme hones in on the breeding and production of young horses with opportunities for breeders and producers to produce and add value to their horses in every corner of Ireland.

“We are grateful to Minister Dooley and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for all their work and for ensuring that our applicants will receive the necessary funding for their events.

“I would like to extend my thanks to the funded representatives for joining us today from the Irish Draught Horse Society, Banner Equestrian Centre, Scarriff Show, and Clarecastle Show.”

14

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News

SPECIAL REPORT

Celestial Kilkenny women celebrate International Women’s Day

Celestial Women gather under the Moon at St Canice’s Cathedral. Network Ireland Kilkenny celebrated International Women’s Day with a ‘fireside’ chat with leading Irish businesswomen.

The Moon by artist Luke Jerram is currently on display at St Canice’s PHOTO: Patrick Browne

Network Ireland Kilkenny celebrated International Women’s Day with an event entitled Celestial Women: Brave, Nurturing, and Inclusive Leadership on Wednesday, March 12, at St Canice’s Cathedral.

Set beneath the aweinspiring touring artwork ‘Museum of the Moon’ by Luke Jerram, the evening featured a fireside chat with three inspiring local businesswomen guided

by special guest MC Chupi Sweetman.

Chupi Sweetman is the founder of the Irish jewellery brand Chupi. Part of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Alumni, she is one of Ireland’s leading female founders.

Ms Sweetman was joined by three accomplished local entrepreneurs, Denise Walsh, CEO of CurlyCo and Rustiq Salon; Dr Toluwani Akaehomen,

a leadership, learning, and people development consultant; and Ella Dunphy, IPAV council member and director of DNG Ella Dunphy.

Caít Mackey Maher of Yellow Deer Designs, Network Ireland Kilkenny President, said: “Under the glow of the full moon at St. Canice’s Cathedral, the energy in the room was palpable. The evening was a powerful reminder of the strength found in vul-

nerability, as our speakers shared honest stories of their light and dark moments.

Their courage left us inspired and connected.

“As I reflect on the evening, I am grateful that Network Ireland Kilkenny continues to create spaces like this — where women are supported to thrive, share their light, and push their roles in employment and businesses forward.

“It’s not just about the

work; it’s about finding harmony and showing up as we are. The power of this network lies in its ability to bring women together, to foster real connection and meaningful growth. I am grateful to our incredible speakers for their honesty and to St Canice’s for providing such a magical setting.

And a special thanks to LEO Kilkenny for their continued support — proof that when women come together,

magic happens,” she said Network Ireland is a voluntary-led business networking group with branches across Ireland that supports women’s professional and personal development. It hosts regular monthly events and offers networking, mentoring, and advice, plus a social outlet and access to a national award scheme. Network Ireland Kilkenny is accepting new members.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

15

Advertisement

16

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

How consumer rights protect your shopping When purchasing goods or services in Ireland, you are protected by tough legal rights under Irish and European Union (EU) legislation. The Consumer Rights Act, introduced in 2022, strengthened these protections by ensuring that you, as a consumer, receive accurate information, have access to redress options if issues arise, and that products meet essential standards of quality, performance, and durability.

Under the Consumer Rights Act, products purchased must be fit for purpose, durable, and comparable in quality to similar products. It must match the description provided in advertisements, labels, packaging and include all necessary accessories and spare parts.

If you purchased goods before November 28, 2022, they fall under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 but, regardless of the law under which your purchase falls, you are entitled to

a refund, replacement, repair, price reduction, or the right to withhold payment if the product does not meet the required standards. These rights last for up to six years.

If a product is faulty, not as described, or unfit for purpose, the retailer, not the manufacturer is responsible because you have entered into a contract with the seller,

and they are legally bound to uphold your rights. Should the retailer go out of business, the manufacturer is then required to honour any warranty.

The period for returning a faulty product “determines whether proof of the fault is required”. This means that, within 12 months, you do not need to prove the fault existed at the time of purchase but after 12 months, you may need to provide evidence that the fault was present at the time of purchase. Additionally, you have a short-term right to cancel within 30 days of receiving a faulty product.

Online purchases offer more protection as you have a 14-day cooling-off period, allowing you to return an item even if you simply change their mind. There is a ‘Major Faults’ clause where if a product has a significant defect and cannot be repaired or replaced, you are entitled to a full refund.

Receipts are not the only proof of purchase; a bank statement or email confirmation also serves as proof of purchase. Such refunds must be processed within 14 days and should be received within

two weeks and in the same form of payment. These rights last for six years. Warranties do not replace consumer rights, even if a warranty has expired you may still be entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund under consumer law.

Whether dealing with faulty goods, missing parts, or misleading descriptions, being aware of your consumer rights empowers you to act when purchases do not meet expectations ensuring you will not lose out financially.

As Eoin Clarke advises: “Understanding your refund rights gives you a better chance of securing an exchange or refund when things go wrong, ensuring your hard-earned cash isn’t wasted.”

So before making any purchase, always check the retailers returns policy, keep proof of payment, and know that Irish Consumer Law is on your side. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

17

kilkennyobserver.ie

Emma Heffernan 1

2

3

Emma’s first novel a sign of a bright future 4 Emma Heffernan Burkhardt, a 16 year old from Kilkenny, has recently published her first novel entitled Disabilities More Like Abilities.

Emma has always loved to write and last summer began focusing on her first novel. Having recently received her own diagnosis, Emma realised that often

5 people with disabilities have hidden talents or abilities. This became a central theme in her book, which is based on teenagers who are struggling with their own obstacles and trying to fit in.

The main character Rachel - has just started at a new school and is struggling to find her place

and some real friends.

Each day is exhausting, pretending to be what she is not. Until she realises that the people who are right for her are those that she can be honest and her true self with. Each of them has their own secret, their own struggle, but together they discover hidden talents and abilities. When

Photo 1: Khan Kiely of Khan’s bookshop pictured with Emma Heffernan Burkhardt.

Photo 2: Emma’s book is available at Khans bookshop on James’s Street Photo 3: The cover of Emma Heffernan Burkhardt’s book.

Photo 4: Emma reads her novel for attentive students Photo 5: Emma and Ms. Carey’s class Photo 6: Students showing off their copy of the new novel

6 Rachel stumbles upon some information about a recent crime in the town, she knows she will need help to bring the perpetrator to justice. Can she convince her new friends to use their hidden abilities to solve the crime?

The book is for people that have gone through obstacles in life and

sometimes feel alone in them. Whether it is family issues like Jeremy, trying to fit in like Rachel, trying to make others feel welcome like Susy, trying to turn negatives into positives like Frank, or trying to to prove assumptions are false like Sky. Obstacles and difficulties in teenagers' lives can often be labelled

as disabilities. But can these teenagers prove assumptions are just false information?

Emma’s book is available in Khan’s book shop Kilkenny, Dubray book shop Waterford and online at Amazon.co.uk. This is only the beginning for this talented new writer.

18

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News Science & Wellbeing Let’s face it; elaborate haircare routines, shaving, and simply enjoying a warm shower can all keep us under the steamy stream for longer.

Still, some people take it to extremes. In a recent post shared to AskReddit, site user u/fabulous_Island_5621 asked: “People who shower for 30+ minutes, wtf you be doing in there?”

A lot more responses than expected referenced depression, dissociation, and crying, with one commenter joked they were “trying to wash off the stench of failure”.

Not every response may have been serious. Still, it raised a question we thought we’d bring to Dr Mosun, consultant psychiatrist at Cassiobury Court, and licensed counsellor Emma Kobil of Mindful Counselling though many of us know mental health issues can make it harder to shower, can spending too long in there reveal problems too?

Both experts agreed that long showers aren’t a sign of mental health issues in and of themselves.

“Warm water can feel comforting on our bodies and the isolation can give us a break from the constant stimulation we are exposed to,” Kobil told HuffPost UK. “Sometimes, the shower may feel like only space where we can cry or let our guard down, which can sometimes be very healthy.”

But the pair also agreed that struggling to move from one task to the next, including going from showering to, say, drying yourself off can be hard for people with mental health concerns.

“Spending an unusually long time in the shower can sometimes be a subtle sign of underlying mental health struggles,” Dr Mosun said.

“Many people with depression, for example, find that even the thought of showering feels like a huge effort... So, when they do manage to get in, they might linger.”

Kobil added: “When we experience a lot of stress, You may already know that older people really do need to visit the loo more often in the middle of the night, but did you know the amount of sleep we need changes as we age?

People over the age of about 65 might get up more often in the wee hours too, partly because our sleep cycle changes to prioritise an earlier bedtime and wakeup over time.

So perhaps it shouldn’t be shocking to learn that experts like Dr Lynelle Schneeberg, a paediatric sleep psychologist, told Sleep.com that different age groups may require different bedtimes too.

Using sleep data from the UK National Sleep Foundation, experts shared the best time to get to bed for “falling asleep”.

When should I fall asleep?

overwhelm, or unprocessed trauma, especially for long periods of time when our nervous system may shift into what’s called a dorsal vagal state, where it freezes or shuts down.”

According to the therapist, this state can make it “exhausting or impossible to move from one task to the next, so getting out of the shower takes far more energy than it would normally.”

Showering for extended periods of time may also sometimes be a sign of obsessive-compulsive disorder, especially if you have strict “rules” for showering or feel compelled to spend very long in there.

When should I worry about taking long showers?

“The warning signs to look out for, I would say, would include whether long showers are accompanied by other changes in daily habits,” Dr Mosun told HuffPost UK. For the expert, these changes include “avoiding some day to day responsibilities that have become simply too overwhelming (eg. brushing teeth, personal grooming and so on), struggling to get out of bed, sleeping well but still feeling fatigued or withdrawing from loved ones.”

Kobil, meanwhile, gave five “warning signs that longer showers might be linked to mental health struggles,” which include: 1. Feeling emotionally numb or “checked out” while showering (this can also look like not remembering all or part of the shower).

2. A sense of dread or difficulty motivating yourself to get out of the shower.

3. Using the shower as a main escape from daily life or as your main coping mechanism.

4. Crying often while in the shower but not feeling relief afterwards.

5. Avoiding other forms of self-care or social connection.

If you’re worried about your mental health, it may be worth speaking to a professional.

We need to come clean about time spent in shower

Newborns (0–3 months) No specific bedtime recommendation Infants (4–11 months) 6–7 pm Toddlers (1–2 years) 7–7:30 pm Preschoolers (3–5 years) 7–8 pm School-age Children (6–13 years) 8–9:30 pm Teens (14–17 years) 9–10:30 pm Young Adults (18–25 years) 8 pm–12 am Adults (26–64 years) 8 pm–12 am Older Adults (65+ years) 8 pm–12 am.

So, what is the best time to go to sleep?

Everyone’s different these are just guidelines. If you’re happy with your current sleep routine, stick to it, and if your lifestyle demands different hours, then pri-

oritise getting enough sleep rather than catching it at the “ideal” hour.

With that said, experts think that when we fall asleep matters. Eight hours

of sleep from midday to late evening might not benefit us as much as an overnight kip, for instance.

So, Sleep.com advises we stick to:

Why would when I fall asleep even matter?

Australia’s University of Queensland points out that while we all have different natural sleep preferences, our body clock means we’re

meant to be “diurnal” (active in the day and asleep at night).

Working against those preset hours “can result in poorer health because it disconnects our physiology and behaviour from our internal circadian clock that is supposed to organise it,” they said.

That’s partly why sleep experts recommend against lying in for too long on the weekends as it can create something called “social jetlag”.

Additionally, a 2019 paper found that, “although it could be argued that sleep during the day is better than no sleep at all, the evidence from shift-workers (who are more likely to suffer from health conditions like depression, breast cancer, and diabetes) suggests that sleep timing is related to health.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

19

kilkennyobserver.ie

Travel & Leisure

Crocodile Rock

Paul Hopkins enjoys a luxury safari break in Tanzania – and almost ends up being on the dinner menu We’re in trouble, I thought.

This could be serious. We had edged close to the huge clifflike slabs of slate that formed a sheer drop onto the Rufiji River.

We had spotted a crocodile and her young nesting in a large crevice. The young seemed minute and from a distance the mother just a decent size. We had wanted to get up close and personal.

But fate now is having none of it. The engine on the small boat cuts out. There are three of us, intrepid travellers we imagine ourselves, and our lone skipper – now working up a sweat in the 36 degree heat as he tries to restart the outboard motor.

Nothing. The boat drifts, and bumps up against the bank.

The crocodile, disturbed, turns, sharply observing

us. Then from out of the camouflage of the rock comes a second croc, then a third, slowly but surely edging their way towards us.

The engine won’t budge.

Nick grabs the oar, stands up and tries to dislodge our boat from its trapped mooring.

The small vessel is swaying with the weight of Nick and the skipper now standing, in a precarious balancing act.

The crocodiles are within gobbling distance. Jane starts shooting multiple frames a second. “Great pics,’’ she yelps.

“You cannot be serious,’’ I say, now consumed by the adrenaline rush and thoughts of an early demise, as the hippos, abundant in the Rufiji, also start surrounding us.

Nick is holding the oar in a guarded manner inches from the nearest crocodile. “Don’t

antagonise the fecker,’’ I say.

The skipper wrestles the oar from my companion and with all he can muster pushes it against the bank and with one last effort dislodges us. The current is against us as, like a man possessed, he starts paddling us away.

Welcome to Selous ... in south-west Tanzania. The previous night we had bedded down at the boutique-like Selous Serena Camp, on the Simbazi River, about an hour’s drive through wild and rugged terrain from Stieglers airstrip, in turn about a 45 minute flight on a light aircraft from the capital, Dar-es-Salaam.

I dined on roasted puree of pumpkin with vanilla, followed by a fillet of baby Tilapia fish, pan-seared with potato mousseline, and lemon caper butter. I slept a great sleep,

lulled by the sounds of Africa.

Tonight we are staying at Serena Mivumo River Lodge on the Rufiji – another epitome of pampering, luxurious accommodation.

For a truly remote wildlife adventure, an isolated lodge like Mivumo takes some beating.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers an area larger than Switzerland (about one-sixth of Tanzania’s land surface), making it one of the biggest reserves in the world.

Home to a full complement of African animals, it is renowned for its exceptionally large elephant herds.

Only in the famed Serengeti will you find a great- er concentration of wildlife.

In fairness, safari in Selous is perhaps more for the seasoned enthusiast. An exhausting but

exhilarating 10-hour drive through Selous the next day – great for the buttocks muscles – brings an abundance of beast and bird in the guise of elephant, zebra and giraffe, bushbuck, deiker and eland, reedbuck, waterbuck and warthog and bold blue monkeys and vervet.

But, because of the vastness of Selous, the animals have much more real estate to roam and you will not always (though often you will) get that up-close-and-personal experience to boast about back home.

The upside is Selous is a much more natural habitat for its inhabitants and visitors than the smaller, private reserves which for the odd few can seem somewhat contrived – though such private reserves play a huge role in animal and

ecology conservation.

The highlight of that daylong pursuit of wildlife was the spotting of a leopard in its natural habitat of rock – I have only ever seen them on the plains or up trees – and the coming upon an Africa Black Eagle as it swoops out of nowhere down on a baby kudu, holds it by the neck in its giant beak, until assured of its compliance, and then proceeds to devour it.

Still not the better of my having crossed the crocs and hippos the previous day, my sympathies lie roundly with the kid kudu – though, as ever, having bore witness you drive on.

For the seasoned player Selous is hard to surpass. * Paul Hopkins travelled to Tanzania with Turkish Airlines

Don’t tie that yellow ribbon round the old suitcase...

While tying colourful ribbons to luggage handles seems like genius, airport baggage handlers are now revealing this popular hack might actually send those precious belongings on an unplanned solo adventure – minus their owners.

Nothing is more harrowing than arriving at a vacation in Aruba and realising one’s underwear is in Guam.

Some airport problems have common solutions, so panicking isn’t necessary.

This one is quite an easy fix: don’t tie ribbons to the luggage. Airport baggage handlers have spilled the beans on why those

helpful ribbons are actually saboteurs in disguise. These fabric foes are wreaking havoc with the automated scanning systems, ensuring bags reach their intended destinations. Let’s see why these ribbons have caused such a stir.

Once a suitcase disappears at check-in, it embarks on a wild ride through airport conveyor systems that would make roller coaster designers jealous.

Airport baggage handlers report that these hightech systems depend on scanners capturing luggage tags’ barcodes – a mission impossible when festive

ribbons play blockers like overzealous security guards.

When scanners can’t read a tag thanks to a dangling decoration, the suitcase is sentenced to manual processing. This detour adds precious minutes to the journey — minutes that might run out before takeoff. While passengers sip pre-flight beverages, their ribbon-adorned bags might be sitting forlornly on the tarmac, destined to catch the next flight — or worse, the wrong flight entirely. If left behind, they inexorably find their way to where lost luggage goes.

Ribbons aren’t the only

culprits turning baggage systems into chaos machines. Airport baggage handlers have nightmares about passengers who treat their suitcases like travel scrapbooks, proudly displaying sticker collections from journeys past. While these homages to the ultimate bucket list trips that anyone can take might seem like sophisticated travel credentials, they’re actually confetti bombs in the scanning process.

Old destination barcodes from previous adventures confuse the scanning system like a dog chasing multiple tennis balls. The machine

desperately tries to figure out if this bag should be heading to JFK, or that delightful trip to Cancun from three years ago.

Inevitably, this means luggage ends up in manual processing purgatory, making it more likely to end up in an airport different from its owner.

Airport baggage handlers suggest embracing luggage in bold, distinctive colours that scream individuality from the start. Lime green, blazing orange, or electric blue suitcases won’t need ribbons — they’re already performing their own visual fanfare on the carousel.

20

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

One Man... One Woman... One Show...

I like a bit of theatre and the theatre that I especially like is a One Man/One Woman show perhaps because it’s in the back of my mind to write and perform one someday.

Mind you, that thought has been in the back of my mind for 40 years now. But, you never know – one of these days, right?

The first One Man show I saw was in the Peacock Theatre in Dublin in 1974.

My flatmate John Cleere had complimentary tickets and off we went to see the great Eamon Morrissey perform The Brother based on the writings of Myles Na gCopaleen (Brian O Nualláin aka Flann O’Brien). I absolutely loved it. Morrissey was brilliant. Throughout the performance, he drank several pints of stout, the famous ‘pint of plain’, made famous by Myles.

At this time my ‘poison’ was a pint of Smithwicks. Well, I couldn’t wait to leave the Peacock and drink a creamy,

pint of stout. Which I did in the Long Bar in Abbey Street.

And it was Guinness all the way after that until the heatwave of summer 1976 when I resorted to ale, far more agreeable in the heat.

I subsequently saw the late, great Donal O’Brien perform The Brother here in Kilkenny and he was every bit as brilliant as Eamon Morrissey.

The Brother was the standard by which I measured every One-Man show. And that remained unchallenged until Mikel Murfi came along with The Man In The Woman’s Shoes (in the Watergate) about Pat Farnon who walks into town and back. What could be simpler? It was funny, tender, at times daft, totally engaging and downright brilliant. The Brother had competition.

In the Watergate Theatre again, I saw Underneath by Corkman Pat Kinevane – “a black comedy about a life lived in secret, a testament to

those who live on the fringes”.

“Hilarious, harrowing and heart-breaking, a devastatingly brilliant piece of theatre,” said The irish Examiner. And I couldn’t agree more. More competition for The Brother.

Indigestion by Seamus O’Rourke I saw in the Barnstorm Theatre venue in the Home Rule. Another brilliant One-Man show. “Indigestion is a story of hope where

laughter and tears join hands and race us through 50 years of madness and a life always slightly out of control.” I absolutely loved it. Yet more competition for The Brother.

So, we now have The Brother, The Man In The Woman‘s Shoes, Underneath and Indigestion – all marvellous One Man shows which you really should get to see if they resurface.

And then along comes Shirley. Shirley Valentine.

Shirley is a housewife from Liverpool who feels trapped in her marriage; tired of cooking egg and chips for an unappreciative husband, she accepts an invite from her friend Jane to visit a Greek island. Shirley jumps at the chance and finds joy in her life again thanks to a dalliance with a local taverna owner.

Penned by Willy Russell, he of the musical Blood Brothers and Educating Rita fame, Shirley Valentine was performed recently in the Thomastown Concert Hall by our own Clare Gibbs [pictured]. I have seen Clare in numerous productions down the years but this, One Woman show, was Clare at her absolute best and utterly deserving of the standing ovations she received each night. Thank you, Clare. And thank you, Mary Cradock, legend of the Kilkenny stage, for your excellent direction.

And thank you, Gerry Cody, and all at Lake Productions for providing such wonderful entertainment. Thank you Seamus Quigley, and the staff of the Thomastown Concert Hall, for the tea and biscuits, free of charge, at the interval – a wonderful gesture. I thoroughly enjoyed my cup of tea and the Ginger Nuts that I like to think I dunked with theatrical aplomb!

And on the topic of sustenance we had a most delightful meal in Tabu, a tapas bar just across the road from the Thomastown Concert Hall.

Tabu, if opening hours coincide with theatre hours, is perfect for a pre-theatre meal.

Oh, and you can get some calamari there – a dish that Shirley explained to her fellow English diners, in Greece, was octopus! They bolted.

Finally, what I love about Shirley Valentine is that there’s no certainty as to how things might pan out for Shirley, and Joe, in the end.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

21

News

Kindness and caring to the fore at St John’s school The Amber Committee at St. John's Senior School have been busy highlighting the importance of mental health, kindness and caring for each other.

These boys and girls, together with their teacher Ms. Heffernan, have been visiting the local nursing home and spreading kindness in school.

They recently welcomed Teac Tom for some important talks on mental health, wellbeing and kindness.

The children in the school had great fun during their recent Crazy Hair and Odd Sock day in aid of Teac Tom and were delighted to meet Tom Mór on his recent visit to the school.

22

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

The Last Word Pat Coughlan

Jimmy Carter’s provocative work on Palestine The announcement of the passing of former US President Jimmy Carter sent me scurrying to find my copy of his 2006 book on Palestine. Carter made a notable impact with his book, Palestine: Peace Not Apartheid, challenging beliefs about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Carter highlighted Israel’s separation barrier, comparing it to apartheid that restricts Palestinian movement.

The book sparked discussions and debates, like those on CNN’s Larry King Live, and prompted Op-Eds in major newspapers both critiquing and supporting Carter. His willingness to question established perspectives, such as criticising settlement expansions in Palestinian territories, rendered the book controversial and significant.

In the book, Carter uses ‘Palestine’ to challenge prevailing Israeli views. By choosing ‘Palestine’ over

‘Israeli-occupied territories,’ ‘West Bank,’ or ‘Gaza Strip,’ he urges readers to consider its historical significance.

Carter connects past events to the current conflict, asking readers to reconsider their perspectives.

He discussed the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, highlighting Palestinian displacement as ethnic cleansing. This historical context informs their quest for statehood today. He states, “The forced removal of Palestinians from their homes in 1948 constituted a form of ethnic cleansing that cannot be ignored in today’s dialogue about territorial rights.”

In the book, Carter draws a significant parallel between the situation in Palestine and apartheid in South Africa, focusing on the restriction of movement as a key similarity. He noted: “The forced separation of people based on racial or ethnic lines can be observed through the restrictive poli-

cies in both regimes.”

During apartheid in South Africa, the ‘Pass Laws’ were a set of rules that severely restricted the mobility of black South Africans, dictating where they could live, work, or even travel. Similarly, in present-day Palestine, Palestinians face numerous barriers and checkpoints that greatly inhibit their freedom of movement, affecting all aspects of their daily lives —

from work to education and family reunification.

An example from today is the West Bank separation barrier, a complex series of fences and walls, which not only restricts movement but also leads to socio-economic challenges for Palestinians, reminiscent of the restrictions faced during apartheid.

Carter’s book examines the struggles faced by Palestinians, which are often ignored. His writing highlights their daily challenges, stating: “The situation for Palestinian families is desperate due to the punitive measures imposed on them.”

Carter prompts a reconsideration of the IsraeliPalestinian relationship, urging readers to “view the conflict through the lens of compassion and justice.” By drawing attention to these difficulties, he encourages a fair discussion that inspires understanding and empathy from all involved. His work urges recognition of the

human experiences behind the conflict, emphasising, “We cannot ignore the personal stories of those caught in this struggle.”

Jimmy Carter seeks a balanced conversation that respects the complexities of this long-standing issue, asserting that “only by acknowledging the true hardships on both sides can we hope to move towards peace”.

His book elicited varied reactions. Israeli critics attempted to counter his views, targeting controversial comparisons like those to apartheid in Chapter 3.

They claimed this analogy was oversimplified, ignoring geopolitical complexities, citing historical accounts presenting alternate perspectives on Israeli policies.

Ironically, debate, such as on Israeli television, increased interest, with a January segment pushing the book into best-seller lists. This controversy drew

more readers, sparking interest in its themes. Book clubs in London and San Francisco organised sessions, engaging new participants. Instead of eclipsing dialogue, criticism fuelled further debate. University panels at Columbia and the University of Toronto discussed its implications, showing the book’s influence on global views and fostering balanced discussion on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Carter’s legacy reveals a person who skilfully combined peace initiatives with courage to challenge common beliefs. His involvement in the Camp David Accords, leading to a 1979 peace treaty between Egypt and Israel, exemplifies his ability to foster dialogue and practical solutions to rooted conflicts.

His work proves the importance of challenging established norms to achieve lasting peace.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

23

kilkennyobserver.ie

Advertisement News

Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny City Heritage Attractions partner to encourage exploration of walkable medieval city

Kilkenny County Council is partnering with key heritage attractions to encourage visitors to the City to wander through its medieval streets and laneways, visit its multiple historic landmarks, and explore all the vibrant, walkable destinations it has to offer.

The progressive local authority has joined forces with the attractions along the Medieval Mile to launch a new Tourism Kiosk at The Parade, just outside the walls of Kilkenny Castle. This new initiative aims to enhance the visitor experience and promote the rich heritage and attractions in and around Kilkenny City, beyond the iconic 13th Century Castle.

By providing a dedicated space for attraction operators to engage with visitors, the kiosk will support local businesses and jobs and promote the movement of sightseers throughout the City. The investment will also benefit surrounding businesses, the attractions behind the initiative say.

The new kiosk will provide visitors with directions and information about heritage attractions in the City, among these St. Canice’s Cathedral, Smithwick’s Experience, Rothe House, Butler Gallery, and the Medieval Mile Museum.

Commenting on the collaboration, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Councillor Michael McCarthy said: “I’m delighted to see

the collaborative efforts of the sector in encouraging visitors to experience more of what Kilkenny has to offer. By encouraging exploration from the Castle to the many other heritage attractions in the City, visitors will stay longer and have a hugely enhanced visit.”

The kiosk aims to enhance visitor engagement by providing a space for direct interaction with visitors and an opportunity to encourage them to explore and discover Kilkenny’s heritage sites. It is also hoped that it will lead to increased visitor numbers.

The new kiosk will be managed by the attractions involved and will open at least four days a week. Staffing and training will be provided by the attractions, and it will stock a variety of marketing materials, all appropriate for the target audience.

The kiosk will operate on a trial basis from March to October 17, 2025, with varying hours throughout the season.

Kilkenny County Council will store the kiosk during the off-season and manage its relocation as required to host other activity at The Parade.

This partnership underscores the strong working relationships between Kilkenny County Council, local attractions, and the wider tourism and hospitality sector. Together, they are committed to showcasing the best of Kilkenny and enhancing the visitor experience.

24

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

70th birthday

Church Singer & musician Gerry Feeney, the talented singer and musician, who performs at the 10.30am Mass in St John’s church every Thursday, was honoured with a surprise birthday party in the Parish Centre last week.

Friends and parishioners joined Monsignor Dan Carroll in wishing Gerry joy, happiness and health on his special day. An atmosphere of convivial merriment permeated the occasion as Monsignor Dan made a presentation to Gerry on behalf of the parish.

After the formalities, music and stories abounded as all the guests enjoyed a large array of finger food and non alcoholic beverages.

Special thanks to Jane, Geraldine and Áine who organised the event.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

25

kilkennyobserver.ie

70th birthday

celebrates 70th birthday

26

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

News

Shocking 23% surge in local health waiting lists across Kilkenny and Newsome the South East Region - Natasha Drennan TD Sinn Féin TD for Carlow Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome Drennan, has expressed alarm at the shocking 23% surge in local health waiting lists since 2019 across Kilkenny and the South East Region.

Data released by the Health Service Executive to Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on health shows that there are now more than 30,000 people on waiting lists in the region for services such as physiotherapy, dietetics, psychology, and therapies, compared to 24,500 in 2019.

She noted that physiotherapy waiting lists account for nearly half of the waiting lists with a 120% rise since 2019.

There has also been a severe rise in waiting lists for psychology, which has surged by 191% since 2019. Podiatry and ophthalmology waiting lists have also grown by more than 100% in the last 5 years, and there has been a worrying 26% rise in waiting lists for dietetics and nutritional services.

Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan said that an action plan is needed for local health waiting lists, but that the only

sustainable solution is to increase the number of health and social care professionals who are working in local health services. She said that this will need a multi-year, joined up workforce strategy to train, recruit, and retain enough workers to meet patient need.

“The consequences of long primary care waiting lists can be severe. Early intervention is essential for people’s health and successful care. Without early intervention, injuries and conditions can get worse and result in longer or more difficult treatment, hospitalisation, or even permanent damage.

People needing rehabilitation will not be able to progress and may even deteriorate and need to return to hospital.

“It is clear from these waiting lists that we do not have enough practicing health and social care professionals in primary care.

Waiting lists have never been worse. This shows that for all the talk, the Government has failed miserably at tackling the fundamental problems in healthcare.

“Radical change is needed and that must start with a major ramp-up of health and social care training places.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

27

Advertisement

28

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

St. Patrick’s weekend

Kilkenny comes alive over St. Patrick's weekend

Photos by Liam Murphy Kilkenny came alive over the bank holiday weekend as the St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny 2025 took over the City.

Over 40,000 people took their vantage points along the medieval streets of Kilkenny to observe a vibrant procession of colour and local legends.

A new Parade route was introduced this year to account for the festival's growing popularity; the extended route weaved through John's Street, Bateman Quay, High Street, and The Parade, concluding on Castle Road.

Beo, Bí Linn – Be alive, be with us The St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny 2025 saw 60 floats and over 1,500 participants from local groups, schools, and community organisations, with record-breaking crowds gathering in Kilkenny City to mark the occasion.

The crowds enjoyed stilt walkers, Latvian dancers, hula hoopers, jugglers, an alien invasion, cat pageantry, Buí Bolg Giant Snake, booming brass bands, Irish folklore, and more. Local organisations embraced this year's theme, Bí Beo, Bí Linn – ‘Be Alive, Be With Us’ - to capture the spirit of Kilkenny and showcase its unique culture and character.

Rás na mBan winner and Irish national team cyclist Mia Griffin was Grand Marshal. The festival also introduced a Junior Grand Marshal. Enya Cox Dempsey, aged 14, from Castlecomer, the winner of Junior Eurovision Éire 2024.

Sister festivals over the March bank holiday weekend brought in over 100,000 visitors to the Marble City.

Director of Product Development, Fáilte Ireland, Orla Carroll, said, "Fáilte Ireland is pleased to support St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny again this year, and we look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the world to celebrate our national holiday. Kilkenny's rich heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and outstanding festival programming make it a key destination for visitors seeking an authentic and unforgettable Irish experience.”

Kilkenny’s St. Patrick’s Festival saw two days of free performances on the Festival Stage, with the live music drawing large crowds on Sunday and Monday. Among the standout moments of the weekend was the arrival of five American Marching Bands making their way through the City, the annual Festival Fireworks Display, and a re-enactment of the Trial of Dame Alice Kyteler, 700 years after the fateful event in 1324.

Festival Chairperson and Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr.

Andrew McGuinness commented, "Kilkenny's St. Patrick's Festival is a celebration of everything that makes our City special, our people, our heritage, and our sense of community. Seeing over 40,000 people come together to enjoy the Parade and approximately 100,000 visitors arriving for the weekend is a testament to the magic of Kilkenny.

We're proud to welcome people from all over Ireland and beyond to experience our festival and City."

St. Patrick's Festival Kilkenny 2025 was brought by Kilkenny County Council with support from Failte Ireland. The event was selected among six exceptional events to showcase unique aspects of Irish heritage and culture and to spotlight Kilkenny with overseas visitors.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

29

Advertisement

30

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Opinion

Callan Court: 1861 Part two

Callan in early 20th century

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

At Callan Court Judge Pat Cody’s expression changed from one of treasonable contentment to a deep frown when two teenagers appeared before him accused of stealing hay from a barn in Bolton.

He sentenced them to fourteen days each and a "severe whipping". The judge took a serious view of the offence, he said, as hay was a precious commodity and essential to the liveliThe old town hall in Callan

hood of the farmer, a Mr. Glendon.

A man who worked for a Mr. Howard of West Street was charged with stealing sheep from Robert Cahill of Cappahenry. Howard owned fields opposite Cahill’s quarry that in later years passed to the ownership of Jimmy Carroll.

Three sheep, two of them in lamb, disappeared from Cahill’s farm. They were taken to a derelict house in Newmarket Lane and killed there by the culprit.

To alert the public to this offence, a local man referred to as "Billy the Loader" was given the task of walking through the streets ringing

a bell and declaring that a crime had been committed.

"All good citizens, hear ye," he hollered, "Three fine sheep have been stolen from a gentleman farmer of Cappahenry. Be vigilant and notify the police if ye have knowledge of this dreadful deed."

The Town Commission employed Billy as night watchman and bell-ringer.

There was no local radio in those days.

The sheep stealer was spotted at four o’ clock one morning trudging along the Kilkenny road with the skins of three sheep slung over his back. This aroused the suspicion of a courting

Pollards at The Square in Callan 1900s

couple who reported him to the police.

The man was identified and police conducted a search of the empty house. There they found the sheep carcasses hidden under the hearthstone of the kitchen. Robert Cahill was asked to identify the sheep. He confirmed they were his.

On ascertaining that the mutton was in excellent condition, he had it cut up and donated to needy people in the town. The culprit received a two-year sentence for his crime. The judge said he would have imposed a tougher sentence but for an obvious drink problem that had led to the "wretched man’s downfall".

In a case involving weights and measures, the local Head Constable informed the court that a Callan pub-

lican had indulged in "the vicious practise of striking his measures with a shillelagh", thereby causing false or misleading readings.

The policeman had found a one gallon container on the premises that was so battered it could contain less than seven pints of locally brewed beer. The brewery was at Currens of Ivy Lodge in West Street.

The publican’s defence was to blame Billy the Loader for "knocking spots off the container" when he brought it to the courthouse for analysis.

That was another job assigned to the town’s fulltime night watchman and bellringer: collecting weights and measures for testing.

On the positive side, the police could be generous in their praise of upstanding citizens. The Head Constable

was asked by the judge for his opinion of a Miss Mary Slattery, who had applied for the transfer to herself of the license of a pub owned by Tom Larkin of Green Street.

The policeman described Ms. Slattery as "a highly respectable young person, very good-looking, and a fine specimen of a village belle." After looking her up and down, the judge agreed with this assessment of the woman and granted her the pub license.

At another hearing, the Constable lavished praise on a Bridge Street shopkeeper for his "honesty in dealing with his customers irrespective of their creed or class."

He was alluding to John Kennedy, great-grandfather of Mona Callanan of the hotel in Green Street (later Mrs. Feore of Carlow)

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

31

Advertisement

32

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Global Report

Why UK move on NHS may be bad medicine The announcement by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer that he plans to abolish NHS England, the organisation that oversees and manages the NHS in England, employing 19,000 people, sees him declare he was bringing the NHS back under “democratic control” and cutting unnecessary bureaucracy by moving oversight of the NHS back into the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC).

Once, considered the envy of Ireland, the NHS is the largest public sector organisation in England, seeing 1.7 million people each day including in patients’ own homes, local GP surgeries, pharmacies and hospitals. It employs 1.7 million people, is funded largely out of general taxation, and has an annual budget of about £190 billion.

The NHS is one of the most centrally organised health systems in the world. This contrasts with many European and other countries where there is typically a national Ministry of Health to set strategy, with the detail of how this is implemented being left

to regional and local councils, health authorities and hospitals.

Some analysts have suggested that the NHS has become even more centrally managed in recent years, but the truth is it has always been held very close by its political masters.

On the face of it, there are advantages to abolishing NHS England, allowing DHSC to focus on clarifying politicians’ priorities for how and on what NHS funding will be spent.

These will include reducing waiting lists for operations, making it easier to get an appointment with a GP, and ensuring that emergency departments can deal quickly with patients without resorting to “corridor care”.

In turn, local NHS organisations such as integrated care boards (who among other things organise GP, dental, pharmacy and optometry services) and NHS trusts (who run hospitals, community, mental health and ambulance services) can concentrate on making sure these policy priorities are put into practice in ways that work

best for local communities and their people.

NHS England has a range of other important roles that will need to be reallocated, whether to an expanded DHSC or elsewhere. These include planning the training of healthcare staff, organising vaccination and screening programmes, purchasing medicines, and collating huge amounts of data about NHS activity and performance.

The UK Government has also announced plans to halve staffing in the 42 local integrated care boards, so any move of former NHS England roles to this level will probably only happen if these local boards merge, which now seems likely.

The government appears therefore to have signalled another NHS management “redisorganisation” – something the NHS has suffered on a periodic basis, a consequence of its highly centralised and political nature. Research evidence is clear that management reorganisations struggle to achieve their objectives, causing instead sig-

“Once, the NHS was considered the envy of Ireland...

nificant distraction away from work to improve services for patients.

With careful planning, there is, however, potential for the abolition of NHS England to lead to a slimmer DHSC (more akin to some of its European counterparts) with a smaller number of well-resourced and managed integrated care boards who could effectively steer, support and

monitor local NHS trusts and primary care services.

The loss of expertise within NHS England is probably the largest risk of the abolition.

Alongside very experienced NHS managers and analysts, NHS England employs senior doctors and other health care workers who contribute valuable practical knowledge from the NHS frontline into policy roles.

A major risk of this move is the potential loss of this clinical expertise and operational insight into policymaking.

Another risk is that bringing NHS England functions directly under ministerial control risks increased politicisation of day-to-day NHS management.

The Government will argue that other policy areas like defence, education and policing do not have such a large arm’s-length body between department and the frontline.

However, health and social care is a uniquely large (11% of GDP) and highly political organisation, with a fastgrowing budget and fastergrowing challenges.

LD

IT’ O

LD

FUN NY

SA

WOR

A Swiss politician has fined for buying pink water pistols online because authorities say the toys violated the country’s weapons law, a local newspaper reported.

Aargauer Zeitung reported that Marc Jaisli — a member of the local council in Buchs, a town west of Zurich — ordered the water pistols, through ultra low-cost online retailer Temu, for his godchildren as a gift.

Prosecutors ordered him to pay a fine totalling 6,500 francs (€7,000) for a violation of weapons law, arguing that it applied even though the pistols were imitations “because they could be confused for real firearms due to their appearance” — despite the pink colour.

Aargauer Zeitung reported that Jaisli said he had not been aware of the violation, but accepted the penalty and paid the fine.

-------------------------------It appears the tall tale that all cats have nine lives may be true for a California Maine coon named Aggie.

The beloved feline was feared dead for two months after the Palisades wildfire in Los Angeles left her family’s home in ashes. But her owner, 82-year-old Katherine Kiefer, held out some hope.

Then a week ago, Kiefer got a call from the West Los Angeles Animal Shelter.

Her daughter Carolyn Kiefer shared their reunion in a TikTok video that quickly garnered more than one million likes. It shows tears pouring from Katherine Kiefer’s eyes as Aggie curled up in her arms.

“I was very much worried that I was going to wake up and (discover) it had been a dream,” she said.

Kiefer was at a medical appointment the day fire engulfed her neighbourhood and her children couldn’t find Aggie when they tried to rescue her.

-------------------------------A 10-year-old British boy celebrated the run-up to the math-themed holiday Pi Day by breaking a world record for the most decimal places of pi recalled in one minute.

Bristole student Alberto Aragon won a school contest by memorising 150 digits of pi, but he kept working on it even after smashing the pi into his headmaster’s face.

He has now broken the Guinness World Record by rattling off 280 digits of pi in just one minute.

A Life of Pi, no doubt...

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

33

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Seventh Heaven in the Hearse Room

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Fennelly’s of Callan is renowned as a creative hub.

It lived up to that image again over St Patrick’s Weekend with an Open Mic that showcased a broad spectrum of talent and artistry.

The event was hosted in a part of Fennelly’s (a former pub and undertakers’) that once served as the Hearse Room: Funerals departed from it for decades, followed by grieving processions.

Now it’s a little Mecca for arty folk, heated in the winter by an ancient reactivated wood stove.

Julia Bohan, who curated the Open Mic, sees the event as a space where people can share their poetic, literary, or musical talent in a welcoming and nonjudgmental milieu.

She’s the author of What’s Next?, a collection of poems inspired by both her own experience and her reflections on the many struggles and challenges that life springs at us like an old world school master set on teaching us the hard way.

Though thankfully, Julia had an English teacher who

At the Open Mic in Fennellys are Left to Right Philip Lynch Julia Bohan Aenne Weigmann Jonathan Klinger and Luisa Meinke

offered the kind of support and encouragement that can prove the difference between success and failure, fulfillment and despair, whether in the classroom or in the wider world.

Thanks to this enlightened teacher she overcame her initial lack of confidence and found that the barriers created by fear (that hold so many people back) became less daunting and then melted away.

Julia was composing poetry

Yolanda Leon and Luka Grcevic at the Open Mic

at the age of 16 and hasn’t stopped since, publishing her collection four years ago, from which she recited three selections at the Open Mic. She read a poem in celebration of three years having passed since meeting her true love. This, and the others she recited, drew evocatively on nature. I was reminded of Wordsworth… his attunement with the great outdoors and the mystical inner self that can interact with it.

I liked her homage to a bird, whose sad fate might not count in the bigger scheme of things but whose humble life was worthy of respect.

Other poems in the collection cover themes ranging from mental health, growing up, and the perennial challenge of surviving abusive relationships. The book is available from Amazon.

Retired farmer Philip Lynch didn’t have too many

supportive teachers in his young days, when the cane and the leather strap ruled the classroom. He developed his gift for public speaking after leaving school and joining Macra.

It organized debating contests and incentivized budding farmers to assert themselves in a country racked by emigration, recession, and joblessness. But he found time for the muse too, in between battling for landowners’ rights and tending his own bucolic farmstead.

He recited comic verse at Fennelly’s, much of it inspired by “voyages of discovery” on the dance floors of his youth and his penchant for poetic double entendre.

He had his audience smiling for a while, until he changed the mood with his recollections of the bad old days of famine, oppression, and long wars.

Bob Loughlin changed the mood in the room yet again, with an altogether different poetic vision. He has numerous publications to his credit, including two short story collections, a memoir and a poetry collection titled Man Poems, which contains 100 compositions. He recited a selection of his work, which reflects his belief in the value of mindfulness.

He mused: “pausing in front of the microwave while I cook my dinner. I breathe and let go of all the thoughts swirling about in my mind and just let myself be clear headed for a few minutes.”

Bob, though a down to earth practical man; can show his creative side with the ease of a hand slipping into a glove.

Throughout his many career changes (including Quality Management, Massage Therapy, the Intellectual Disability Sector, and Kilkenny City tour guide,) his passion for literature and writing have never wavered. The group in Fennelly’s was treated to some lovely examples of his poetry and prose.

This was followed by soothing musical performances that enhanced the already relaxed atmosphere in the room.

Luka Grcevic captured the spirit of the original poem by Yeats when he sang Down by the Sally Gardens, a composition recalling the gentle power of love in a pastoral setting.

He was ably accompanied on flute by Yolanda Leon, whose mastery of the instrument drew gasps of admiration. Her music resonated with Luka’s lovely rendition of the song.

On classical guitar, Tom

McCollam filled the once sombre Hearse Room with sweet and graceful melodies and for a few precious minutes, its occupants were transported to Seventh Heaven without having to vacate their earthly forms.

It was the spiritual equivalent of having one’s cake and eating it, and, aptly enough, after the Open Mic; the aroma of Etaoin Holahan’s fresh cakes had the happy band of aesthetes meandering towards the front counter.

The Hearse Room was empty again, left to the ghosts of Callan past and awaiting the next Open Mic in April.

Bob Loughlin reads from his poetry collection at Fennellys

34

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Manchurian chicken

Prep: 10 mins Cook: 30 mins Serves: 4 Enjoy this popular Hakka (IndoChinese) shallow-fried chicken dish with a little chilli heat and some sweetness.

• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup • 1 tbsp soy sauce • 1 tbsp sweet or garlic chilli sauce (add ½ tsp sugar if your chilli sauce isn’t sweet) • 1 tsp cornflour STEP 1 Combine the egg white with the soy sauce and cornflour in a large bowl. Add the chicken and mix thoroughly to coat.

STEP 2 Mix all the coating ingredients together with ½ tsp salt in a bowl and set aside.

STEP 3 Make the sauce by heating the oil in a pan and frying the ginger, garlic and most of the spring onions (save some to serve) over a medium heat for 1 min. Stir in the ketchup, soy sauce and chilli sauce plus 3 tbsp water and cook for 1 min. Stir the cornflour into 1 tbsp cold water to make a paste and add this to the sauce. Turn the heat to low and cook for a minute or so – the sauce should thicken straight away.

Remove from the heat and set aside.

For the coating • 6 tbsp cornflour • 2 tbsp plain flour • ¼ tsp baking powder • ½ tsp chilli powder

STEP 4 Put a few tablespoons of oil in a large, shallow pan over a medium heat. Dip the chicken pieces, shaking off any excess marinade, into the bowl of coating and toss to coat. Shake off any excess flour and lower the chicken into the hot oil.

Repeat this until you have a single layer of chicken in the pan. Fry the chicken pieces for about 4-5 mins each side, until they are crisp on both sides and lightly golden, they should be crunchy and cooked through. Scoop them out into a colander set over a bowl to catch any excess fat. Repeat with the remaining chicken.

For the sauce • 1 tbsp neutral oil • 2 tsp grated ginger • 2 garlic cloves finely chopped or crushed • 3 spring onions chopped

STEP 5 Meanwhile, reheat the sauce over a low heat. Add all the fried chicken to the sauce and toss it gently to coat. Sprinkle over the remaining spring onions to serve.

Ingredients • 1 egg white (save the yolk for another recipe) • 2 tsp soy sauce • 2 tbsp cornflour • 350g boneless chicken thighs cut into strips • neutral oil for shallow frying • cooked egg noodles to serve (optional)

Sesame salmon and sweet potato mash Prep: 10 mins Cook: 15 mins Serves: 2 Try this Asian-inspired salmon supper with a nutty sesame dressing, crisp veg and comforting sweet potato mash. It’s healthy, low-calorie and rich in omega-3.

Ingredients • ½ tbsp sesame oil • 1 tbsp low-salt soy sauce • thumb-sized piece ginger grated • 1 garlic clove crushed • 1 tsp honey • 2 sweet potatoes scrubbed and cut into wedges • 1 lime cut into wedges • 2 boneless skinless salmon fillets • 250g purple sprouting broccoli • 1 tbsp sesame seeds • 1 red chilli thinly sliced (deseeded if you don’t like it too hot) Method

STEP 1 Heat oven to 200C/180 fan/ gas 6 and line a baking tray with parchment. Mix together 1/2 tbsp sesame oil, the soy, ginger, garlic and honey. Put the sweet potato wedges, skin and all, into a glass bowl with the lime wedges. Cover with cling film and microwave on high for 12-14 mins until completely soft.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, spread the broccoli and salmon out on the baking tray. Spoon over the marinade and season. Roast in the oven for 10-12 mins, then sprinkle over the sesame seeds.

STEP 3 Remove the lime wedges and roughly mash the sweet potato using a fork. Mix in the remaining sesame oil, the chilli and some seasoning. Divide between plates, along with the salmon and broccoli.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

35

kilkennyobserver.ie

5

Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

to stream right now on Amazon Prime 1. Den Of Thieves 2

This stars Gerard Butler as Detective Nick O’Brien, the leader of an elite unit within the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Nick and his team spring into action when they learn that a criminal gang, consisting of ex-marines and led by Ray Merrimen (Pablo Schreiber), is planning an audacious heist to rob the city’s Federal Reserve bank.

Fuelled by copious amounts of testosterone, “Den of Thieves” is big and brash and offers plenty of dumb fun.

2. The Hitman’s Bodyguard

If you want your action to come with a hearty slice of comedy, look no further than The Hitman’s Bodyguard.

This 2017 movie pairs together Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson. Also featuring Gary Oldman and Salma Hayek, it’s an impressive cast for such a silly action-comedy.

Reynolds plays a down-on-his-luck bodyguard, while Jackson plays the world’s most lethal assassin. The two team up, when the latter is targeted by a blood-thirsty Eastern European dictator (Oldman).

3. Anna

Terrifying truth behind Netflix’s Adolescence Stephan Graham can do no wrong. The Kirkby, Lancashire actor has turned out brilliant performances in the likes of This Is England, Boiling Point, Snatch, and A Thousand Blows. Now he stars in his latest Netflix outing, Adolescence, which he co-created and co-wrote.

The four-part Netflix series is already making waves after its debut just over a week ago, with many wondering if the tale of a teen who has been accused of killing a female classmate is based on a true story.

The young boy, played powerfully and memorable

by Owen Cooper [pictured], is quickly revealed to be guilty of the crime in the first episode, and the series begins a larger, steeper dive into Incel culture – the ‘right’ of sexual male entitlement and gender violence that has been promoted by influencers such as Andrew and Tristan Tate.

“In the UK, there’s a real problem with knife crime, certainly in the younger generation. There have been a series of of young boys who were killing young girls with knives, and it was really upsetting,”

director Philip Barantini told TheWrap this month.

“That was the seed that we wanted to explore, and send a bit of a message and maybe spark a bit of a conversation.”

Writer Jack Thorne also said he didn’t want to come up with a story that immediately blamed Jamie’s parents for his crime. “‘I don’t want to make this easy and blame the parents. I want to create a complicated portrait,” he explained. After a female colleague suggested he explore Incel culture online, Thorne soon realised he had a starting point for 13-year-old Jamie’s radicalisation.

The series’ creators have made it clear that Adolescence isn’t based on one specific story, but rather on several similar events in the UK – and, indeed, in Ireland.

Graham told reporters: “We’d been asked to create a one-shot piece which was going to be a series, so we were coming up with the possibilities of what we’d make it about, and I’d read an article in the paper about a young boy stabbing a young girl.”

“It made me feel a bit

cold. Then about three of four months later, there was a piece on the news about a another young boy who’d stabbed a young girl,” he continued. “They are young boys, they’re not men.”

Although it becomes clear early in the series that the boy at the heart of the show is guilty, Graham also said that he wanted to ask questions that extended beyond what did or didn’t happen.

“One of our main aims is that beautiful saying ‘it takes a village to raise a child.’ We didn’t want to point the blame at anyone specifically or in particular,” he also said. “We wanted to say we’re all accountable in many ways for this kind of thing, be that parents, teachers, government, society, community.”

Graham didn’t cite the specific news stories that inspired the series, but there have been several such events in recent years.

In January 2023 Axel Rudakubana, then 17, stabbed three girls at a Taylor Swiftthemed dance class in Liverpool.

In July 2024, a high school boy stabbed a female classmate at school in South Korea, and in 2016 then-

16-year-old Daniel Stroud stabbed his 16-year-old classmate Bailey Gwynne.

In November 2024, four boys (aged 14, 15, 16, and 17) and two girls (14 and 15) were arrested for attempted murder after another 13-year-old girl was found stabbed.

Adolescence ends with the young boy changing his plea from not guilty to guilty, and his parents coming to terms with what their son has done and what his future will be.

“In Episode 4, he’s much further along on his journey than before,” Thorne told Netflix. “Jamie now knows what he’s done and what his future might be. That allows him to put his feelings in a box and close the lid on himself in some way.”

“Jamie is always trying to impress his dad and make sure his dad is proud of him. But I don’t think he finds that,” Cooper said of the Jamie’s conclusion.

“He’s obviously bothered about the plea, but he’s more bothered about his dad. Although he doesn’t want to let down his whole family, his dad’s at the core of his heart. Jamie doesn’t want to let Eddie down.”

Anna pulls together quite an impressive cast with Luke Evans, Cillian Murphy and Helen Mirren featuring alongside star Sasha Luss. It’s a good thing the cast bring their best because the movie around them is fairly pedestrian.

Nevertheless, it still has its share of heart-pounding moments, and fans of director Luc Besson’s other work such as Leon: The Professional, and Lucy won’t want to skip it. It sees Luss play the eponymous Anna, a Russian woman who is hiding a deadly set of skills behind her strolling beautiful exterior.

4. The Hunt

Billed as one of the most controversial movies ever made because of its political overtones, The Hunt may not have been worthy of all the hype, and sensational headlines, but it’s an enjoyable action movie.

It sees a group of strangers awaken in a forest clearing with no idea how or why they’re there. Moments later, they have been kidnapped by a group of uber-wealthy elites to become the prey in a brutal blood sport.

However, when one of the captives (Ike Barinholtz) flips the script and becomes a predator all bets are off.

The Hunt isn’t as clever as it believes, but it’s a good time regardless.

5. Escape From Pretoria

Escape From Pretoria is more of a prison thriller than an action movie, but it’s such a gripping chronicling of an attempted prison break that you’ll be too hooked to care if there are no explosions or car chases.

Inspired by a real-life prison escape in 1970s South Africa, Daniel Radcliffe plays Tim Jenkin, alongside friend Stephen Lee (Daniel Webber) the two have been arrested for carrying out anti-apartheid missions. They are sent to the infamous Pretoria Prison, and once there, begin plotting a daring scheme to break free.

36

Motoring

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

37

Advertisement

38

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA CLUB LOTTO We have a winner! Results for 11th March. Numbers drawn - 2, 16, 19. Congratulations to Caitriona Corr, winner of our Jackpot €3400.

FOOTBALL Clara are now mired at the foot of the senior football league following their latest defeat at the hands of home team Mooncoin on Sunday morning. Although ultra competitive again they made the long journey home with no points after conceding four goals, a couple of which were very preventable.

Mooncoin began proceedings with a brace of two pointers from frees to move quickly ahead. Harry Boyle opened Clara’s account but Mooncoin countered with another pointed free. But a Killian Phelan penalty and a Kevin Nolan two pointer allowed Clara to retire at halftime with their noses in front. 1-3 to 0-5.

Mooncoin again opened the second half brightly and a penalty goal and a goal from play had them firmly in the driving seat. Jack Langton answered with a Clara goal but Mooncoin added another goal and a point before Clara scored again. Clara then dominated and added a further goal and two points through Davy Barcoe (goal) and Kevin Nolan and the returned Aussie Ciarán Prendergast. But this was spoiled by the concession of another soft goal and a point to leave Mooncoin 4-7 to 3-5 winners.

Team - Rory O Keeffe, Paddy Bolger, Conor O Shea, Brandon Ryan. Liam Ryan, Diarmuid Walsh, Philip Carrigan.

Harry Boyle 0-1, Jack Langton 1-0. Hugh Kelly, Killian Phelan 1-0 pen., Luke Lawlor. Sean Carrigan, Kevin Nolan 0- 3, Joe Power. Subs used Daniel Ryan, Luke Whelan, Davy Barcoe, Ciarán Prendergast 0-1, James Dowling, Alex McDonald.

KILKENNY WIN Well done to John Murphy and Shane Staunton for their part in the defeat of Limerick in Nowlan Park on Saturday.

This was an unexpected and much needed confidence booster for the Cats in advance of their championship meeting with Galway at the same venue in a few weeks time.

U19s LOSE Hard luck to Davy Barcoe and Luke Lawlor who were with the Kilkenny U19 squad on Saturday. They lost an away game to the Westmeath U20 team. Davy lined out at fullback and Luke was the sub goalkeeper on the team. The Kilkenny U20s had a good 1-20 to 2-15 win over Tipperary on Sunday morning in Nowlan Park in their last challenge game before facing Wexford away in the championship on Saturday week. Rory Glynn chipped in with four points for the winners.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS GET ON YOUR BIKE MAY 2 /3 O’Loughlin Gaels are on a fundraising drive to help with current and future projects - they are holding a two day cycling event from St. John’s Park to Dungarvan Co. Water-

ford via the Waterford Greenway and back again. All levels of ability are welcome. The event includes an overnight stay at Lawlors Hotel Dungarvan and a 6 week training programme for the novice cyclist. This promises to be right craic but places are limited so get in touch ASAP to register your interest - oloughlinsevents@gmail.com Over the coming weeks works will begin on a new wall ball, astro turf and dressing rooms at St. Johns Park and the club is embarking on the development of a new greenfield site at Dunmore to include new pitches over the coming years. All help is greatly appreciated. Use the link bellow for more details on how to donate. https://www.idonate. ie/crowdfunder/OLoughlinGaels KILKENNY WIN There was a big O’Loughlin’s representation on the Kilkenny Senior team which defeated Limerick in UPMC Nowlan Park in the county’s final Allianz League game of this year’s contest. Starting the game were Mikey Butler, Huw Lawlor, Paddy Deegan, Jordan Molloy, Fionán Mackessy and Luke Hogan and all six played their part in the win which elimated the possibility of relegation and provided a boost as Kilkenny begin preparations for the championship.

CAMOGIE JUVENILE TRAINING O’Loughlin Gaels Juvenile camogie players training is well underway. Camogie training continues each Saturday in St. John’s Park at the following times. U8, U10 and U12 training starts at 10:00 on the pitches. U6 at 11:00 AM in the gym, all new members welcome! Come join us for a fun and exciting season. We look forward to seeing you there!

EASTER CAMP Places are filling up fast on O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club’s Easter Camp which will take place from the 14th to the 18th April. It is open to all O’Loughlin Gaels club members aged 5 to 13 years. Closing date for receipt of application forms is April 1st. Any queries or to register contact Stephen at 085-7181325.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated March 11th. The Numbers drawn were 10, 15, 24, 26 and the Bonus Number was 27. Play again at www.oloughingaels. com Promotors Draw 1. Vickey Trehy c/o JJ Cullen. 2. P.A. Cleere c/o K Cleere. 3. Jimmy McGarry c/o B Maher. 4. Robbie Woods c/o P Greene. 5. Francis Burke c/o D Tyrrell. 6. Kay Kelly c/o P Cleere. 7. Jean Cody c/o Ml Nolan. 8. Andrea Mulloney c/o Online. 9. Robert Nicholl c/o Online. 10. Gary Bryan c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support MEMBERSHIP Just a reminder, if you haven’t yet paid your club membership O’ Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie club membership renewal for 2025 is due now. It is available on Foireann. Just log in to your Foireann account, tap the three horizontal lines to bring up the membership tab and select the membership option that suits you. Kilkenny Hurlers’ Co-op Draw tickets are available with most membership options also. All support welcome.

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

FRESHFORD DINNER DANCE A great night was had by all at St Lachtain’s GAA Club victory dinner dance in Langtons last Sunday evening. Medals were presented to over 60 players including Junior club All Ireland winners and Junior B and Junior F league winners.

There were also presentations made to our All Ireland winning management team and guest of honour on the night Mr Derek Kent, chairman of the Leinster Council. Also in attendance were PJ Kenny, chairman of Kilkenny county Board. Seamus Reade, secretary of Kilkenny county board, Ned Quinn, former chairman and secretary of Kilkenny county board and former GAA president Nicky Brennan. St. Lachtain’s GAA Club would like to thank all our guests and everyone that worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make the night a huge success.

DARTS MEMORIAL The Charlie Colclough Memorial darts tournament was held in Kavanagh’s Bar on Saturday evening last. This is first year of the tournament which was held in memory of the late Charlie Colclough who himself was a keen dart player. There was a great turnout with 56 men taking part and 12 ladies. In the Cup semi-final Michael Walsh and Niall Culleton beat Noel McGree and John P.Kavanagh to make it to the final with Niall Culleton winning and taking home the Cup. The Shiled final saw Philip O’Loughlin beat Mark Kavanagh in an exciting final. In the ladies section the semi finalists were Tamara Colclough, Edel de Paor, Majella Colclough and Eleanor O’Hara which saw Eleanor beat Majella in the final to claim the trophy. The trophies and prizes were presented by Chloe Wallace (daughter of the late Charlie). There was over €1100 raised on the night with all proceeds going to Cois Noir Kilkenny. The organisers wish to thank all those who participated, helped or donated in any way to make this such a success in its first year.

BIRTHDAY GIRL Special birthday wishes go out Diane Purcell, Ard Lachtain, Freshford who celebrated a very special birthday last weekend. Diane reached the big 50 and celebrated with family and friends at Dinner in Castle Arms Hotel and later on locally.

GAA NEWS St Lachtains GAA Club held their Dinner dance on Sunday evening last at Langtons hotel . The Club had much to celebrate this year on the field of play having won the County Junior final, Leinster Club final and All Ireland final. Medals were presented to the All-Ireland winning junior hurlers, Junior B league winners 2022 and Junior F league winners 2023 and 2024 with plenty of food and dancing, The MC on the night was John Meagher and the club thank him for a job well done. The All Ireland winning panel received their medals: Captain C.Bergin, D.Brennan, S.Dawson, S.Rafter, P.Donnelly, B.Kennedy, C.Hickey, M.Donnelly, BQuinn, A.Rafter, P.Killeen, S.Donnelly, J.Maher, C.O’Leary, L.Hickey, D.Maher J.Burke, C.Dawson, J.Fitzpatrick, C.Donnelly, A.Rafter,J.Bergin, C.Power, J.Hickey, L.Kennedy, C.Dalton, P.Campion J.Whitty, N.McGree, D.Killeen,J.Bowden

Launching O’Loughlin Gaels “Pedal to the Sea are club players Danielle Quigley Kilkenny Camogie , Paddy Deegan Kilkenny GAA , Mick Galwey, Nigel Leydon (O’Loughlin Gaels Chairman) , Eoin Lawlor (Camogie Manager)

C.McCabe, J.Cantwell, LPhelan, M.Durnan, D.Quinn, J.O’Connor, C Bowden and C.Leahy. Management, Steven Farrell, B.Beckett, JJ Grace and R.Dowling.

The Junior B League winners 22 – J.Burke, C.CDonnelly, L.Kennedy, J.Cantwell, P.White, M.Donnelly, P.Maher, C.Rafter,J.Hickey, C.Leahy, P.Killeen,C.Power, P Campion,(Capt) C.O’Leary and A.Rafter. Subs – J.Doheny, D.Quinn P Donnelly, J.Bowden, D.Killeen, B Dermody , C.Dawson, S.Burke, C.Hickey, J.Bergin, M.Kavanagh, J.Whitty, M Walsh, E.Landers and S.Dawson. Management, JJ Donnelly, T.Kennedy and J.Burke, J.Dermody Junior F winners 22 – R.Dowling, C.Bowden, M.Nolan, J.Cantwell, J.Hickey, J. Bowden, C.Donnelly, J.Bergin, J.McCarthy S.Burke(Capt) C.Hickey, D.Killeen, M.Durnan, B.Dermody and C.Leahy Subs- B.Hughes, D.Burke, S.Kennedy, M.Kavanagh, J.Campion, K.Dalton , J.O’Connor,J.WhittyP.Maher, L.Phelan, C.Dalton, C.McCabe and D.Quiinn. Management, E.Ryan, O Dalton, D.Burke, JP Kavanagh, D.Martin and J Bowden.

Junior F League 24 – M.Nolan, C.Bowden, .L Phelan, J.Cantwell, C.Leahy, F.Tobin, C.McCabe, C.Dalaton, S.Burke, M.Durnan, B.Hughes, J.O’Connor, J.Whitty, E.Landers, D.Killeen (Capt) Subs – M.Murphy, S.Counihan, B Dermody, D.Burke, C.McGree, J.Denieffe, M Farrelll, M.Kavanagh, G Dalton, K Dalton, D.Quinn. Management. E. Ryan, O.Dalton, D.Burke JP Kavanagh, D.Martin and J.Bowden.

Underage teams, spring has sprung and all the underage teams are starting to get back into action. Pairc Lachtain was a hive of activity recently the U12s, U14s and U16s were all back in training. St.Lachtains field teams from UI6 up to U18s and new members are always welcome. You can contact any member of the committee for details on how to register.

CAMOGIE Two local girls Michelle Killeen and Ciara Hickey were part of the Kilkenny Minor camogie panel who took on Cork at Dunmore on Sunday last.

SOCCER Freshford Town Junior side had no game last weekend.

They suffered a heavy defeat to Newpark in their away game the previous week In the schoolboys/girls section the U14 boys had a 4-0 win over Paulstown with goals from Patrick O’Connor (2) Fintan Martin and Seamus Costelloe. The U12 boys drew 1-1 with Callan with the goal coming from Tom Dalton. The girls meanwhile drew 1-1 with Callan in their home game.

The club are presently planning for the regeneration project which was put together and permission for development of a synthetic grass playing surface to the existing grassed area is intended, erection of LED floodlighting to both the existing main grassed and proposed synthetic grass pitches with additional car parking provisions, 2 new sports dug outs to grassed pitch and upgrade of existing boundary walls and fencing drainage and all associated works.

IRISH DANCING The Malone school of Irish dancing has started and continues every Monday evening at 5.15pm in St.Lachtains GAA Clubhouse. All those interested should go along or for more information contact Michelle on 087 2063912 BINGO North Kilkenny Wheelchair association weekly bingo continues each Friday evening in Freshford Community Hall at 8pm with good prize money and a raffle each week. This is for a very good cause indeed and the committee are asking people to come along and support the weekly bingo and bring a friend or two with you for a night out and help keep this fundraiser going.

NUENNA GROUP People are living longer stronger and healthier lives nowadays, so why not have fun while improving your fitness with the local Nuenna social community group. Membership to Nuenna AC club for the year is €60. The club were invited to participate at an indoor event in Nenagh recently and the young athletes did amazingly well and had a haul of medals coming home. Well done to all SPLIT THE POT The winner of Split the pot last week Lil Roberts. The proceeds for the month of March goes to Nuenna Athletics club. Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available in all local shops and pubs Revolut is also available on 08330411011 remember to include your name and address.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter. So why not support your own local café, it makes sense to stay local. You can meet a friend or two for a chat and a cupa or some lovely homemade food or try out their new tarts.

The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. If you’re great at fixing a door hinge, baking a cake, or working in a kitchen – or just willing to learn there’s got lots to do. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

39

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes IONAD LACHTAIN On Sunday last, the nearest Sunday to the feast of St.Lachtain, Bishop Wilkinson celebrated and preached at a Festal Eucharist to mark the Patronal festival. Refreshments were served afterwards.

Iona Lachtains programme of events was also launched for 2025 and the shop was open on Saturday and Sunday.

St Lachtain’s Church Museum and Arts Centre which was closed for the months of January and February reopened last weekend.

FOROIGE Foroige youth club meet each Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Community Hall. They have music, a free library, a stationary corner, games, chat and treats each week. New members are always very welcome.

The youth club is members only so if you are interest in joining please go along and sign up. They are also looking for adult volunteers. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan.gleeson@foroige.ie PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

The damage done to parts of the roof of the Parish Church during the recent storm has now been repaired.

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21 .

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB MINOR FOOTBALL SEMI-FINAL The club’s minor footballers put in a top-class performance of Gaelic football to fight off the stubborn resistance of the home club Danesfort to claim a deserved 4-09 to 0-07 victory in the county semi-final. After Daragh Power (2min), Dara Behan (3mins) and Ben Blanchfield (4 mins) gave the visitors an early confidence boost, the Village backs, with goalkeeper Padraig Joyce, were forced to rebuff a number of dangerous goal attempts by Danesfort before some impressive passing moves saw Bill McDermott and Daragh Power rattle the net in the 20th and 22nd minutes to give The Village a commanding 2-04 to 0-01 lead. In the 26th minute Danesfort failed to finish a rebound off the crossbar to the net before Paddy Purcell and Daragh Power kicked over points for a 2-06 to 0-02 halftime lead for James Stephens. The 2nd half continued in the same vein with James Stephens dominating play and when Zac Scanlon finished a daring Dara Behan solo run through the Danesfort defence for a 3rd goal in the 9th minute the result was now beyond the reach of the home team. Nevertheless, Danesfort continued to fight gallantly and kicked over three quality points before impressive midfielder Daragh Power (2-04) added a fourth three pointer to seal the result at 4-09 to 0-07 for the Village and an opportunity to bridge a 14 year gap since the club’s last minor football title win in 2011. In a quality team performance, there were outstanding displays on show from Conor Heffernan, Tuan Hyland, Dara Behan, Conor McEvoy and Bill McDermott (1-01) in particular. The successful lineup included Padraig Joyce, Tuan Hyland, Conor Heffernan, John Barton, Paddy Purcell, Dara Behan, Sean Rea, Conor Millea, Daragh Power, Ben Blanchfield, Conor McEvoy, Brian Burke, James O’Brien, Bill McDermott, Zac Scanlon and substitutes Sky Walker and Rory Glynn. The best of luck to the management team and players in the county final against Kilmoganny which is scheduled to be played on Saturday next 22nd March in Dunnamaggin.

Support for the team would be much appreciated.

JUVENILE REGISTRATION Juvenile officer Kieran Brennan advises that a Registration Night / Talk will be held in the clubrooms on Wednesday night, 26th March from 7pm for the parents of existing and new nursery age (4 to 8) hurling and camogie club children to join the club. A printed notice will also be sent to parents via the junior/senior infant classes in all schools in the parish early next week. The flyer will also be distributed to the new homes on the Callan Road and the Waterford Road areas inviting new families to the parish and their young children to come and join a progressive, inclusive GAA club. The first training session for the Nursery hurlers will take place on Tuesday, 2nd April in Larchfield at 6.15pm while the Camogie nursery coaching starts on Monday, 31st March in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan (Kells Road) at 6.30pm. Meanwhile, should parents require further information contact Kieran Brennan (086-3608593) for Hurling nursery matters and Brian Leahy (086-8445563) for Camogie nursery queries.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY On St. Patrick’s Day the famous Red and Green club banner fluttered proudly in the breeze at the head of the parade of young U-8 and U-9 James Stephens hurlers and U-10 camogie players as they marched in the annual parade through the streets of the city. Decked out in their club colours the young participants enthusiastically supported

by their parents / guardians in the crowded streets as they enjoyed the merriment associated with the annual festive occasion in honour of our national saint. Our thanks to Kieran Brennan and his committee for their efficiency in organising the club’s entry for the festive event.

ST. PATRICKS DAY - 20 YEARS AGO On 17th. March 2005 James Stephens were crowned All Ireland senior club hurling champions for the third time when defeating Athenry, in Croke Park, on a scoreline of 0-19 to 0-14. All the ingredients were in place for what should have been a classic - two highly regarded sides, perfect sod, beautiful sunny afternoon and with a succession of points in an opening half that ended 0-10 to 0-09 in favour of the Village, that promise looked like being fulfilled. The second half put an end to such expectations as the James Stephens superb defence suffocated the Athenry threat with an outstanding defensive display where all 6 backs brought their top game to the occasion. Martin Phelan blotted out the threat of Eugene Cloonan, Donnacha Cody drove a succession of booming clearances while Dermot Grogan’s terrier-like tackling was a joy to behold. The half back line of Jackie Tyrrell, Philly Larkin and Peter Barry were imperious, displaying brilliant tackling skills and driving powerful clearances. Brian McEvoy played one of his greatest games at midfield, well supported by the skilful Paddy O’ Brien while the two Eoin’s, Larkin and McCormack, were unstoppable in attack. David McCormack and Joe Murphy sniped incessantly while the considerable challenges posed by Gary Whelan and Richie Hayes were continually problematic for a struggling Athenry defence.

The game hinged on a penalty awarded for a foul on Eoin McCormack in the 50th. minute. Leading by 0-15 to 0-12 at that stage Eoin Larkin was instructed to shoot a point. This was followed by three quick points from a rampant Eoin McCormack and with a defence that would not concede another score a famous victory was secured. The James Stephens team on that day was Francis Cantwell, Donnacha Cody, Martin Phelan, Dermot Grogan, Jackie Tyrrell, Philip Larkin, Peter Barry (capt), Paddy O’ Brien (0-1), Brian McEvoy, Joe Murphy (0-1), Eoin Larkin (0-9 8f), Gary Whelan, Eoin McCormack (0-5), Richie Hayes (0-1), David McCormack (0-2). Subs: Joe Murray (for Joe Murphy), Joe Mernagh, Niall Tyrrell, Shane Egan, Michael Fogarty, Patrick Butler, Matthew Ruth, Brian Dooley, John Morgan, Peter O’ Neill, Michael Eardley, Niall Grogan, Eamon Sheehy, Tomás Keogh, Mark Hoban, Vincent O’ Brien.

LARCHFIELD GRANT Plaudits to the club’s social club treasurer Shane Lanigan for his successful engagement with the Department of Rural and Community Development which has secured a grant of €92,954 under the government’s 2024 Community Centre Investment Fund to enable the club carry out necessary upgrading and enhancement works on the club’s Larchfield headquarters.

BONUS BALL The Bonus Ball number for March was 42. Congratulations to the winners Rhonda Grace Conroy and Majella Costello who will each receive a cheque for €500 in the coming days. Our thanks, as always, to all who continue to support the draw. The next draw will be on Saturday 19th April.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 5 :9 :10: 29. There was no winning ticket. The €40 consolation winners were Noel Grace, Dermot Grogan, Greg Pollard, Mags Costigan and Majella Costello.

BENNETTSBRIDGE

Contact 086 1666547 to book your place.

MASS TIMES Bennettsbridge Wednesday and Friday mornings, 10.30am.

Saturday (Tullaherin) 8pm Sunday (Bennettsbridge) 10.30am.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the Kelly and Phelan families on the death of Eileen Kelly (nee Phelan) Newpark Close, Kilkenny and Archersrath Nursing Home, Kilkenny. Eileen was the sister of the late Michael Phelan, Woodlawn.

Eileen passed away on 15th March 2025, in the wonderful care of the staff at the Suir Ward of St. Luke’s Hospital. Predeceased by her daughter Geraldine (Roche), granddaughter Karen, brother Michael and his wife Peggy. Beloved mother of Caroline, Sammy, Declan and Darren. Eileen will be dearly missed by her loving family, son-in-law Eugene, daughters-in-law Marie, Edwina and Catriona, grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Funeral Prayers were recited at Johnston’s funeral home followed by removal to St. John’s Church. Requiem Mass was celebrated and funeral took place afterwards to St. Kieran’s Cemetery.

GATHERING GROUP Members of the gathering group met in Crafted Restaurant for a coffee morning. A full strength group enjoyed tea and scones served by the very friendly staff.

LOTTO Results 10th March. No winner of Jackpot. numbers, 7, 20, 24, 25. Consolation Prizes, Robbie Griffiths, Bennettsbridge, Noel Brady, Woodlawn, Eileen Phelan, Millennium Court, Cian Dowling, Marian Place, Fr Duggan, PP BASKETBALL Local girls Kayla Wall and Katie Holden are part of Kilkenny Stars u16 and u17 basketball teams. At u17 they are league champions going undefeated and come up against Tramore on Saturday 22nd in cup final for double glory for the season.

At u16 the girls are also on track to do the double. They are currently top of the league with a cup final this Thursday also against Tramore. The u16 girls have also qualified for club all Ireland finals which will be played out in Gormanstown, Meath on the weekend of 12th/13th April.

Both these girls play an integral part of both squads and we wish them every success as they close out the season.

EAST END East End committee would like to thank the 300 people who turned up to walk with us over 24 hours this weekend in our fundraiser! We’d also like to thank all the companies that sponsored us. Finally a massive thank you to our 24 fantastic leaders, without you volunteering none of this would have been possible The U 12s had a great win over Evergreen at the weekend on the Kells Road. The score was East End 3, Evergreen 0.

Scores, Robbie Dobbyn, 2, Robbie O’Malley(Capt) 1.

The U 11s are into the semi-final following a win over Freebooters. East End 4. Freebooters 0.

CAMOGIE Congratulations to Bennettsbridge club player, Kate and her teammate Aisleann on their All Ireland handball doubles win last weekend in Croke Park.

REGISTRATION

Winners of the Kathleen Conway Memorial Trophy on St Patrick’s Day

Bennettsbridge Camogie on-line registration is now open.

Returning to training on 31st March( U 6, U8, U10 and U12) GAA Buy A Brick; A wall plaque has been erected in the hall of our new clubhouse to acknowledge the people who paid €1,000 towards the clubs ‘Buy a Brick’ campaign. People that are still contributing will have their names added when the €1k is paid. A huge thanks to all who made one off donations to support our clubhouse development.

Signage Campaign; Bennettsbridge GAA club will this week launch a Pitch signage campaign. This will be used to pay off the outstanding loan on our development. A sub committee has been formed so any businesses wishing to have their name advertised on the surrounding pitch wall please contact the subcommittee members for the terms and details: Alan Flynn, Alan Morrissey, Tommie Hughes, Tim Dooley and Mary Blanchfield.

Club membership; Club membership for the coming year is now due. Membership can be paid to Samantha McGarry or to any committee member. Fees for non-playing members €40, student players €80 and adult players €120.

Bennettsbridge Camogie Player, Kate with teammate Aisleann won the All Ireland Handball doubles in Croke Park

IRISH DANCING DISPLAY The St Patrick’s Day Irish Dancing event was one of the most entertaining for some years. Mounted jointly each year by Stella Carroll’s Dancing School and the Ladies Club it is always an important community occasion. Monday’s session did not disappoint as family members and friends gathered in large numbers to cheer on the young dancers.

The Kathleen Conway Memorial Trophy was won by Sophie Dowling and Lauren Prendergast and Liz Griffiths and Ella Griffiths, Kathleen’s niece and grandniece, respectively, made the presentation.

Tom Shanahan acted as MC and kept the acts flowing.

Great credit to Stella and her team for organising a great programme. Mandy Simpson sold the raffle tickets and proceeds will be handed over to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare team. Thanks to sponsors of the raffle, including, Moth to a flame, Jerpoint Glass, David Power, and members of the Ladies Club.

CHURCH NEWS The feast of St Patrick was observed at masses over the weekend and Fr Duggan blessed the shamrock.

TROCAIRE The traditional collection for Trocaire will take place during Lent and this year Bishop Niall Coll has requested that we support this collection for the relief of hunger, suffering and neglect in Third World Countries. You are asked to take home a Trocaire Box and continue to contribute to this important cause.

ALTAR SERVERS REVIVAL Bishop Niall Coll has urged parishes to revive the practice of having altar servers at weekend masses. Efforts will be made to encourage boys and girls to serve at mass. Safeguarding of children regulations would have to be strictly adhered to. Further details to follow soon.

PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK A pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 6th April,

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

40

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Community & GAA Notes MEDJUGORJE INTERNATIONAL YOUTH FESTIVAL Medjugorje international youth festival 2nd to 9th August 2025. Spiritual Director Rev. David Lane. €799.00 half board including flights from Cork. €50 discount if deposit paid by 15th January. Travel with Joe Walsh Tours. Group Leader Anna O’Shaughnessy 089 4038650 /086 2959380. Only 25 places available for this group.

ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL CAFE Our Volunteers, everyone who greets you in St. Mary’s Cathedral café are volunteers giving their time freely. They believe in making our café a space where people of the community can connect and know they are not alone. Why Support us: Teac Tom provides affordable and immediate services to help those struggling with their mental health or who have been bereaved by suicide. All profits from St Mary’s Cathedral Café go directly to supporting mental health services and suicide intervention provided by Teac Tom. Please call in to your community cafe for a cuppa.

We’re open at the moment Saturday 10am-4pm and Sunday 10am-1pm LENT AND EASTER OFFERINGS Envelopes are ready for distribution and can be collected at Parish Office. Thank you to all who give their time to distribute envelopes.

KILKENNY MEDJUGORJE PILGRIMAGE Direct Flight to Mostar Medjugorje 4th–11th June 2025.

(Month of the Sacred Heart and includes Pentecost Sunday). Hotel near the church cost €875 accompanied

by Spiritual Director. For bookings contact Ann on 086 1991620 or 086 8825622 NATIONAL PILGRIMAGE TO KNOCK The Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration National Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday, 6th April 2025.

Please contact 086 1666547 to book.

TRÓCAIRE We invite you to take a Trocaire box home and to make this a part of your journey through Lent. Anything raised helps transform the lives of those who need it most. Thank you.

Kilkenny Stars Basketball includes Locals, Kayla Wall and Katie Holden Membership can also be paid online through club spot.

Early payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2025 are coming in.

Minor Football; Congratulations to our minor football team who won the Roinn C football championship last Saturday defeating Railyard in a hard fought game on a shoreline of 4-8 to 3-4. A great way to start off the season, well done to all the players and management.

Colleges Hurling; Hard luck to Adam Barden who played in goal for Grennan College in their All-Ireland final against Roscrea, losing out by a point in a hard fought game.

Retro Jersey night; Thanks to all who attended the retro jersey night fundraiser in O’Donnell’s on Saturday night last. A great night was had by all with the prize for best jersey going to Christy Walsh .

Split the Pot; Well done to Charlie and Robbie Dowling who won 110 euro, Adrian Walpole who won 30 euro and to Marion Murphy who won 20 euro. Thanks again for the continued support.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN

Tom Healy

ALERT Registration for text alert and personal monitoring alarms and signage are available on the evening. The annual €10 subscription is now due for the 2025 Goresbridge Text Alert scheme.

ANTIQUE SALE (GORESBRIDGE) Will take place on Monday 7th April. Info: Martin on 087 2569496 or email goresbridgeantiques@gmail.com

BARROW RANGERS There was no winner of last week’s lotto draw.

BRIDGE UNITED Easter Summer camp will take place from 15th – 17th April, 10am-1pm for boys and girls aged 4-15.

The club is looking to put an over 35 team in The Carlow and District League. Information: phone James 087 7971276.

In the Premier Division: Bridge A 2-0 Callan Utd with Bridge scores by Conor English and Cillian Kelly. Other results (Youth): Bridge 0-2 Freebooters, Under-17s - Bridge 4-1 Highview, Under-16s Bridge 4-1 Callan with Bridge scores

by Darragh Roche, Daniel Corbett, Sam McVinney and Ieuan Carroll, Under-14s - Bridge Athletic 3-1 Highview and Bridge Boys 1-3 Callan Utd, Under-12s Bridge Blue 6-2 Stoneyford Black with Bridge scores by Marty Maher (3), Sean Cummins, Bill Tadgh Costelloe and Tommy Hooper, Bridge Yellow 1-4 Evergreen Athletic with Bridge score by Niall Doyle, Bridge Town 2-4 Deen Celtic Black with Bridge scores by Conor Dormer and Riley Dempsey. In the Girls Division results: Under-14s Bridge 0-2 Spa Utd. PAST PUPILS DINNER The Brigidine Convents annual past pupils dinner takes place on Sunday 27th April in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise at 12.45pm. Cost is €50 and bookings before Thursday 17th April. Info sheilakinance@gmail.com

CHURCH SERVICES Weekend masses in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday. Paulstown on Sunday11.30am.

Church of Ireland: Holy Communion at 11.30am on Sunday 23 March in Grange Sylvae church (Goresbridge).

TALKING THE TALK The Cupla Focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues each Friday at 11.00am. in the Goodly Barrow.

Everybody is welcome whether fluent or just a cupla focal.

GOODLY BARROW Congratulations to the Goodly Barrow on its success as best café in Carlow in Irish Restaurants Award 2025.

MENS SHED The Mens Shed meets next on Tuesday 25th March at 11am in the Community Centre Paulstown (R95NY93).

SPLIT THE POT In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online.

Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie. The results of the draw on 16th March were: 1 Kathleen Brennan, 2. Lisa Barcoe, 3 Claire McLoughlin Hynes and Jim and Rachel.

ST MARY’S PARISH OSSORY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES The Ossory Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 19th-25th May 2025. Bus transport from Loughboy Shopping Centre and Castlecomer GAA pitch to Cork Airport. Full religious programme. Choice of 3* & 4* hotels €949 and €995 respectively. Bookings JWT 01-2410800 or info@joewalshtours.ie. Assisted pilgrims contact Fr Anthony O’Connor 087-2517766.

KILMACOW KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 2, 3, 11, and 28. There were five Match 3 winners. The Jackpot for next Thursday night is €5,550.

AMENITY GRANT SCHEME ‘25 Kilkenny County Council is inviting applications from community groups for projects under its Amenity Grant Scheme ’25. Completed application forms should be returned by Friday, 28th March to Amenity Grant Scheme, Parks Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny or by e-mail to amenitygrants@ kilkennycoco.ie. Please contact Lisa on 056 7794441 for further information.

KILMACOW MASTERPLAN The Masterplan was approved by the members of Piltown Municipal District. Work has commenced on giving formal recognition to it and the other Masterplans (for Ballyragget, Paulstown and Urlingford) in the County Development Plan. As agreed previously, a general meeting will be held in the Barrow Room in the Community Centre at 8.00pm on Monday, 24th March to form a group to liaise with Kilkenny County Council and other agencies to have achieve the objectives set out in the Kilmacow Masterplan.

Everyone is welcome to attend.

CLOVER CENTRE Digby Brady Landscaping Architects have been appointed consultants to assist Kilkenny County Council with the development of a Masterplan for the Clover Centre site in Christendom, Ferrybank. It will be developed through a collaborative approach with the local community through public consultation to identify local community needs and priorities. The overall objective of this initiative is to develop a high-quality parkland that creates a space that

offers quality of life improvements in terms of physical and mental health well-being and to return this space to a hub for social interaction that is of high quality, community centred and multi-functional. The public consultation will commence shortly.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY The next Historical Society lecture, ‘James Fogarty of Tibberaghny’ takes place on Friday 28th March. The speaker for this lecture is Con Manning and takes place in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church), at 8pm.

HERITAGE STRATEGY Kilkenny County Council has started out to develop a heritage strategy that will help preserve, protect and promote the rich heritage of the county in an inclusive manner that is reflective of the values and aspirations of the people of the county. People can e-mail their thoughts, suggestions and/or comments in writing to the Heritage Officer, Community and Culture Section, Kilkenny County Council, Patrick’s Court, Patrick Street, Kilkenny or by e-mail to heritage@kilkennycoco.ie. The submission period is open until Friday, 28th March.

MULLINAVAT MULLINAVAT MATTERS Mullinavat Matters will hold its Annual General Meeting at 8.00pm on Thursday, 27th March in the Community Centre (kitchen). All welcome to attend the meeting which will focus on projects for 2025.

CLIMATE ACTION Mullinavat featured in the first edition of Kilkenny Going Green, the newsletter produced by the Climate Action Office of Kilkenny County Council. It featured the energy efficiency initiative of the installation solar panels, upgrading to LED, the provision of electric vehicle charging points and water refill station at the Community Centre and the provision of another water refill station, bike rack and pollinator planting at the GAA grounds.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Alice O’Neill McLaughlin delivered the second 2025 South Kilkenny Historical Society lecture on 28th February to a packed Mullinavat Parish Hall. Her talk was based on her memoir More Precious than Gold: My Enduring Connection with John McShain – the Man Who Built Washington.

Alice outlined the relationship which she formed with John McShain and his family after she won a McShain scholarship to study in America, where she completed a four-year BA degree in Psychology and English at Immaculata University and a two years Master’s degree in Counselling at Villanova University, Pennsylvania.

The John McShain scholarship to Immaculata College, which was then a women’s college and is now a Co-ed University, was advertised in the Irish Independent in Easter 1978. Alice got to know McShain by writing letters to him and from meeting and writing to his daughter, Polly, a nun with Rosemont College.

Alice told the gathering of ‘great pleasure of meeting John McShain at his Philadelphia office just before I graduated from Immaculata in May 1982. I was 21 and he was 84, and we chatted for almost an hour in his board room. He was most interested in my being the eldest of eleven children, as he and his wife were unable to have any more children after the birth of their daughter, Pauline’.

John McShain senior and Catherine Malloy emigrated from Derry to Philadelphia USA in the 1880’s. The couple met in Philadelphia, got married and had four children, the youngest being John McShain who became the third biggest building contractor in the USA in the 1930’s, 40’s and 50’s.

Catherine died in childbirth in 1903, when young John was only four years old. His father died when John was 21, and John took over his father’s business as a building contractor. John McShain started to attend daily mass after the death of his father, a practice he continued into

Anthony Young, Bríd Murphy, Alice O’Neill McLaughlin and Patrick Dungan at the John McShain lecture in Mullinavat on 28th February

We Wewelcome welcomeall allGAA GAAClub Cluband andCommunity Communitynotes notesfor forpublication publicationin inThe TheKilkenny KilkennyObserver Observeremail emailto tosales@kilkennyobserver.ie sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

41

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes old age. John McShain was educated in several Catholic institutions, where he made life-long friends. He married Mary Horstmann, whose father was of German descent and whose mother was a descendent of the Butlers of Kilkenny. From the 1930’s to the 1960’s, John McShain succeeded in bidding for and building major public projects, his first being the twelve storey US Naval hospital in Philadelphia in 1932.

His family quote him as having said: “I never had much interest in making money. I wanted to build beautiful buildings. I would rather break even on a monumental building than make a million on an uninspired warehouse.” In his time, he was one of the top three building contractors in the United States. John McShain took pride in building beautiful buildings which would be there to be appreciated and enjoyed for generations.

In 1960 John and Mary became the proud owners of 8,500 acres in Kerry, including the Middle and Lower Lakes of Killarney, Ross Castle, Innisfallen Monastic Island, and Glena Mountain. They made Killarney House their second home and spent three months of every year there until they moved in permanently in 1987.

John McShain died peacefully in Killarney House on September 9th 1989 at the age of ninety and he is buried in Yeadon. His wife, Mary, continued to live in Killarney House until her death in 1998, also aged 90.

Alice concluded by quoting from The Man who Built Washington, by Carl Brauer: ‘As a leading builder, McShain never received the acclaim or attention that the leading architects of his day received, but that never bothered him. He loved to build and he particularly loved to build monuments, civil or ecclesiastical. He relished the prestige that was attached to them, but he also loved them for their own sake. They embodied his faith in God and country, and they expressed his life force, organisational knowhow, and creativity. John McShain’s monuments allowed him to come closer to immortality in a highly tangible way than most individuals can ever hope to come.’

More Precious than Gold: My Enduring Connection with John McShain – the Man Who Built Washington is available to order through bookshops from Olympia Publishers in London or online from Olympia or Amazon. The book can also be purchased at the Dunbrody Famine Ship shop in New Ross – cost €15.

COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL FACILITIES CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME ‘25 Kilkenny County Council is inviting applications from community groups and organisations for its Community and Cultural Facilities Capital Grant Scheme. Eligible projects include development of open spaces, walkways, parklands, play areas, recreational facilities, community arts and projects that conserve built and natural heritage.

Funding is at the rate of 90% of the total eligible project costs to a maximum grant of €50,000. The match funding requirement is 10%. The minimum grant payable under the scheme is €10,000. The terms and conditions of the scheme are available from the Council’s website www. kilkennycoco.ie or by contacting the Community Department in the Council by telephone at 056 779 4920 or by e-mail at community@kilkennycoco.ie. Application forms will only be issued after the interested group has met the relevant member of the Community and Culture Department in the Council. The Community Development Officer for the Piltown Municipal District is Lianne Kelly (056 779 4345). The closing date for completed applications to the Community Department, Kilkenny County Council, John’s Green, Kilkenny is Wednesday, 30th April.

telling, drama and movement the hope filled meaning of Lent and Easter, St. Patrick’s Parish Centre Saturday April 12th at 11am.

Lenten stations envelopes are now due. If you would like to help share duties in Johnstown Church for Mass and other ceremonies or for cleaning the church please give your names to Fr. Ollie Maher, Breda Campion or Caroline Phelan.

THE MILL CENTRE There is a Safe Pass course on April 10th. Contact the Centre for details.

Junior Cert grinds are running every Wednesday from 5 to 6pm. € 10 per session.

Cois Nore outreach advice clinic is available each Friday 10.00am to 12 noon. Information on all the above contact 0568838466.

SPA UNITED AFC U16 boys lague division 2 Spa 5 Deen Celtic 0, U14 boys league division 1 Evergreen 5 Spa 0, U14 boys league division 2 Deen Celtic 5 Spa 5, U13 boys league division 1A Spa 0 Evergreen 4, U12 boys league division 1A Highview 1 Spa 5, U12 boys league division 2A Sp0a 1 Thomastown 3, U14 girls league division 1A Spa 2 Bridge 0, U12 girls league division 1A Highview 3 Spa 0. The U9’s travelled to Clover as they continue their development.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were 5,17,19,25. There was no jackpot winner but there was four match threes Mae Tobin, Ossie Bennett, Jim Ryan and Brigid Ahern.

BALLYRAGGET

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

SACRAMENTAL DATES First Holy Communion for the school children in the parish will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

TROCAIRE BOXES Trocaire boxes are available in the porches of both Churches. Please take one home with you as well as one for a neighbour who cannot attend Mass. Please support Trócaire in their work of helping communities and families impacted by climate change. A little can make a great difference for others.

MEN ON THE MOVE Classes every Monday 11:15am-12:15pm in MFRC to book a place please contact Alice 083-1014313.

SENIOR SOCIAL GROUP Every Wednesday afternoon 1pm-3pm. This includes two course meal followed by tea/coffee and live music, with transport to and from the centre available. Please contact Alice Teehan on 083-1014313 for further information.

CASHEL AND EMLY PILGRIMAGE June 13th - 18th. Cost from €969, flights from Shannon.

Pilgrimage Director: Rev. Jimmy Donnelly. Bookings and Enquires: Contact Joe Walsh Tours @ info@joewalshtours. ie or 01 241 0800. Assisted Pilgrims only, please contact: Very Rev. Joe Tynan, PP: lourdesassistedpilgrimage@ cashel-emly.ie or 087 222 5445.

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. A special thanks for the huge support for the St. Patrick’s weekend bingo.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

AGE FRIENDLY KILKENNY There will be a gathering of older people and an information meeting in the Canon Malone Hall on March 27th.

Registration takes place at 10.30am and concludes with a light lunch at 1.00.pm THANKS Many thanks to everyone who contributed to the Cake and Craft Sale on Sunday morning in aid of Cois Nore.

JOHNSTOWN MATHS GRINDS Maths grinds are being held in St. Kieran’s Hall during the Easter Holidays , on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday April 15th,16th, and17th from 9.30am to 12 noon. € 20 per day or € 50 for the three sessions. To book places contact Mary on 0878072670.

HERE WE GO AGAIN Colaiste Mhuire.are performing their annual show in St. Kieran’s Hall entitled “ Here we go again” from Tuesday to Friday March 25th to 28th at 7.30pm. (doors open 6.45pm) Tickets € 10/15 available from the school. Raffle and tuck shop each night.

CHURCH NEWS Ossory Lenten programme a talk “the work of Trocaire in our world today” by Caoimhe de Barra in St. Kieran’s College March 20th at 7pm.

A guided walk in Jenkinstown Wood for John Paul Award participants and other young people led by Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman and Gemma Mulligan on Saturday April 5th at 11am.

A Lenten Godly play “Faith the reason for our hope” with Gemma Mulligan and Marie Tallent for primary school children to reflect through Godly play by means of story-

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE RECEPTIONIST VACANCY Mill FRC require a receptionist with IT skills.The applicant must be eligible for CE Scheme.

SAFE PASS A Safe Pass course is available in theCentre on the 10th April. Ring to book a space.

JUNIOR CERT MATH GRINDS Math Grinds are held every Wednesday 5-6pm, €10 per session. Places limited so please contact the Centre if interested.

YOUTH CLUB Mill Youth Club back Wednesday night. Juniors 5 – 6.15 pm – 8 to 11 yrs. Seniors 6.15 – 7.30 pm – 12 to 15 yrs COIS NORE Outreach Advice Clinic, at the Mill every Friday Morning from 10am to 12pm COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available, Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 4+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be dropped off during our opening hours. Please call before dropping off.

For further information, please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466 GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Michael Hanrahan who won €200 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday, Michael bought his envelope in Josephine Hogan’s in Grange. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of March Split the Pot will be in support of the Prayer Garden beside Gortnahoe Church. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Sarah Doheny, Rathbeg on the death of her brother Jimmy Darcy, Borrisbeg, Urlingford.

May he rest in peace.

KILMANAGH BALLYKEEFFE BOOK KBK group are hoping to publish a booklet on the history of Ballykeeffe (from start to current day) in honour of 25th year anniversary of the Amphitheatre. We are looking for any memories, stories, pictures you may have that we can include in this booklet. We are also looking for pictures and history of any old equipment that would have been used in the quarry in olden times. We need to have all the information for the booklet by end of May to give us time to have it published for the summertime. You can be assured that all photographs or documents you lend us will be copied and returned immediately to their owners and will not be damaged in any way. We can arrange to collect or photograph any items you may have. Please contact Eileen Lanigan on 086 373 99 83 or email lanigan.eileen@ gmail.com with any information you may have. Items can also be given to any member of the KBK Committee.

GOLF LOTTERY Well done to Martin Doheny, Knockeenbawn who scooped the Callan Golf Club Lottery recently. A nice pot of €2,950 was his reward.

VEGETABLE GROWING COURSE Would you like to grow your own vegetables and herbs?

Then a course at Westcourt Living and Growing (R95 YK5Y) is for you. Topics covered will include: Planning your own food garden; Sowing seeds; Composting; Plant Care; Avoiding pest and disease, and more Starting on next Monday, March 24th, the course is for 5 Monday mornings. Cost €50. To book, email friendsofwestcourt@gmail.com.

COIS NORE OUTREACH The Cois Nore Outreach service (Cancer Care and Support) is held on Tuesday mornings at The Droichead Family Resource Centre, Mill Street, Callan from 10 am to 12 pm.

Please do not hesitate to drop in for information and support, or, to make an appointment - please contact 087 483 3941.

LOTTO RESULTS Results for 10th March. There was no winner. Numbers drawn were 8; 19; 23; 30. Lucky Dip winners of €50 each were Pat Dowling, Mary O’Shea and Johnny Ronan.

Promoters’ prizes go to Philly Cody and James O’Connor.

Next week’s jackpot will be €20,000 with a reserve jackpot of €14,400.

SOCCER FIXTURES Saturday March 22nd : U17 Schoolboys League: River Rangers v Evergreen. Sunday March 23rd : K and DL Division Two: River Rangers v Thomastown Utd. SOCCER RESULTS U16 Schoolboys League: River Rangers 1; Thomastown Utd 4. K and DL Div 2: East End Utd. 3; River Rangers 0.

RE-TURN BIN River Rangers have a Re-turn bin at Clonard Park. We are asking our players, families and the community to help raise funds by dropping off empty bottles and cans that carry the Re-turn symbol, which then will be taken to a RVM machine and the money will go to the club. The Return bin is placed at the entrance gate to Clonard Park KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail. com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

CONAHY FOOTBALL The minor footballers lost out to Graignamanagh in the Roinn B county semi-final in Graignamanagh on Friday night last. Conahy started very well and led by four points at the halfway mark. But the home side were far stronger in the second half, and ended up having a deserved win, despite a great effort from Conahy all the way through.

TEAM: Joe Boland, Rory Dunne, Tadhg Hennessy, Bobby Dooley, Patrick Kennedy, John Kennedy, Rory Rhatigan, Evan Staunton, Darragh Horgan, Tommy Mulhall, Billy Rowe, Finn Sherman, Adam Morrissey, Daniel Mooney, Rory Sherman, Padraic Quinn.

The under-14 footballers put in a super performance to win over James Stephens in the Roinn C League in Páirc Sheamuis Stiopháin on Sunday last. Conahy produced some fine scores all through, with the defence holding well against the city boys. Well done to everyone involved.

TEAM: Richie Rowe, Padraig Murphy, James Byrne, Noah

Meaney, Tommy Hickey, Jack Buggy, Mikey Hurley, Sam Connellan, Ethan McEvoy, Ben Byrne, Jack Gamble, Diarmuid Quinn, Cian Rhatigan, M.J. Buggy, Aaryn Kenehan, Ciaran Quinn, Darragh McGee, Tommy Murphy, Charlie Redmond, Billy Hickey, Josh Byrne.

TABLE QUIZ Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club will hold a family table quiz fundraiser in the GAA Clubhouse on this Sunday, March 23rd at 5.00 p.m. There will also be a raffle on the evening. Tables of 4 cost €20 and young and old are all invited to come along.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 3, 6 and 11. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Kieran Mooney, Caroline Buggy, Shane Mulhall, Ann Butler and Tara Keogh.

The promoter prize winners were Margaret Buggy, Anne Downey and Seamus Óg Brennan. This week’s jackpot now increases to €2,600. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

GAA/CAMOGIE MEMBERSHIP All GAA and Camogie Club players and members are encouraged to download the Clubzap app and pay their 2025 membership fees and keep up to date on fixtures, results and other club information. Please contact any club officer for more information if needed.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Aghaviller Parish Hugginstown at 10.00a.m, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m, Sunday 23rd. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil - Saturday 22nd. at 6.30p.m.

PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses, Bridget and Betty McCarthy, Knockdrinna. Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 22nd.

March at 6.30p.m. Catherine Barron, Catstown. Mass in Hugginstown on Saturday 22nd. at 8.00p.m. Matty O’Shea, Boolyglass. Mass in Hugginstown on Sunday 23rd. at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT) Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Raggett. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Pat Power. Sunday 10.00a.m.

Deirdre O’Shea. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m.

Teresa Broderick. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Crowley.

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

LENTEN STATION COLLECTION: Envelopes for the Lenten Station Contribution are available in the Church. Your contribution is for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. (To donate directly.) Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831) OSSORY DIOCESAN PILGRIMAGE TO LOURDES The Pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from 19th to 25th May. Bus transport from Loughboy Shopping Centre to Cork airport. Direct flights to Lourdes. Full religious programme. Bookings at JWT 01- 2410800 or email info@ joewalshtours.ie.

FIRST PENANCE 2025 For Monroe/Newmarket Schools on Wed. 2nd. April in Hugginstown Church at 7.00p.m. For Stoneyford School on Tuesday 8th. April in Stoneyford Church at 7.00p.m.

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION The Apostolate of Eucharistic Adoration National Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Sunday 6th. April 2025. Bus will leave from Woodies Car Park in Kilkenny at 7.30a.m.

Please contact 086 1666547 if you need to book a place on the bus.

TRÓCAIRE: Every year during Lent, Trócaire asks for your help to fund lifesaving programmes around the world. Please collect a Trócaire Box which is available in Church Porch. You can contribute Online at www.trocaire.org or By Phone: 1850 408 408. The contents of each and every Trócaire Box, no matter how small, come together to make a significant difference.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 10th. March 2025. Numbers: 10; 20; 32; 17. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners, Noel Aylward, Boolyglass Alice Doolan, Thomastown, Walter Broderick, Croan, Chrissie Walsh, Ennisnag, Adrian Hudson, “On-Line”. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers), James Irish; Tommy Murphy; Ger Carroll SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY A Lecture on James Fogarty of Tibberaghny; will be given

by Con Manning on Friday, 28th. March at 8.00p.m. in Mullinavat Parish Hall.

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

42

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Sport

BY PAUL BOLGER Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny WWW.NANOPHYSIO.IE

Do you think that mind and body are interconnected, or separate? Do you believe that they impact on one another? This is a debate that has taken place over many centuries – at least as far back as ancient Greece (and possibly further back in other cultures). It even influences modern medicine – how we view disease and illness and how we try to treat or prevent most conditions.

Church and science The origins of our modern belief that mind and body are separate entities has its roots in a time when the Catholic church in Europe felt threatened by emerging ideas in science. In 17th century France, René Descartes posited his concept of ‘Cartesian dualism’ - in other words, physical substances (like the body) and mental substances (like the mind or spirit) are different and separate.

This idea was very agreeable to the church at the time – it separated people in two, allowing scientists to explore the physical world of the body while the soul and mind remain the domain of the church.

The sun and the earth

counterpart.

It would be interesting to imagine what today’s world had Aristotle's idea become the dominant philosophy.

The history of the mind-body connection The centuries-long debate about the mind-body connection still affects medicine today Because his ideas did not pose a threat to the church’s authority, this allowed them to spread far and wide.

Anyone who suggested that mind and body were one and the same would have been shunned, much like Galileo was in 1633 for suggesting that the Sun, not the Earth,

was the centre of our solar system.

While his ideas weren’t completely new, Descartes’ philosophy became the foundation on which much philosophy, science and medicine grew out of. Today, many medical beliefs and treatments stem from this

view of the world.

Ancient ideas While René Descartes is responsible for popularising this idea, records from ancient Greece show the debate was alive and well even then.

Plato argued that the soul

(or mind) was immortal and distinct from the mortal body. He believed the soul was the seat of reason and virtue, while the body was a temporary vessel prone to corruption. Aristotle, however, viewed the soul as the form of the body, inseparable from its physical

Medical science The dualistic view that Descartes pioneered has greatly influenced modern medicine. Since then, scientists have viewed the body as a machine made from individual parts and systems – like how a mechanic might view a car. This is what we call the biomedical model of health.

While this view of the body has helped to bring about fantastic advances in the fields of anatomy, surgery and physiology, it has resulted in a narrow, mechanical view of health that often misses a huge part of the picture.

These days, people who are unwell are sent to a particular department – neurology, rheumatology, orthopaedics, psychiatry. While occasionally this may be the right place for somebody to go, it is a restricted way of approaching health. We need to start to appreciate the whole person – not just their component parts.

We aren’t simply machines.

We are living organisms – in many ways we are more like an ecosystem than a car. And yes, the mind and body are intrinsically linked together.

Let’s explore this closer over the coming weeks.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

43

kilkennyobserver.ie

News Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

and some home truths on Noreside meant Kilkenny weren’t about to surrender the lead and allow Limerick to steal something from this crucial fixture.

And so, it showed. Lyng’s outfit dug in and surged to secure the vital win. TJ notched another two scores, as did the impressive Mossy Keoghan, while Thomastown’s John Donnelly registered his second of the day to quash any hopes of a Treaty comeback. There was one sour note before the long whistle, a second yellow card shown to Paddy Deegan for a high challenge, deep into stoppage time. Full Time in UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny 0-29, Limerick 0-20.

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Allianz Hurling League Division 1A Kilkenny 0-29 Limerick 0-20 UPMC Nowlan Park Referee: Colm Lyons (Cork) Kilkenny produced a winning performance to ensure another season in Division 1A of the Allianz Hurling League with a 9-point victory over Limerick in UPMC Nowlan Park last Saturday.

A third win of this year’s campaign for the Cats meant that Wexford and Clare will drop to division1B next season, ironically The Banner are the defending league champions and All-Ireland holders, an unexpected fall for Brian Lohan’s men. In front of a crowd of just over 6,500, Derek Lyng’s charges provided the necessary response to last weekend’s drubbing

by Tipperary to claim their only home win, with Mossy Keoghan, once again leading the line to great effect and notching a personal tally of 0-7 in the vital win.

The home side got off the mark in the opening minute courtesy of a nice score from play by TJ. Ethan Hurley, who was one of two late changes to the Limerick starting XV, levelled matters before Kilmallock’s Shane O’Brien added a quickfire second for John Kiely’s team. O’Loughlin’s Fionan Mackessy restored parity only to see a placed ball from Dromin/Athlacca’s David Reidy give the visitors the lead after six minutes. This season’s Kilkenny captain, John Donnelly then fired over a lovely effort, but again The Treaty responded, Reidy with the second of his eight-point haul.

The home side then took control of proceedings, hitting six unanswered points. Three of these scores came from the hurl of TJ Reid (2f), while former Kerry star Mackessy notched his second of the afternoon, a booming free from distance. The Village’s Cian Kenny and GBC’s Billy Ryan, the other men to register during this purple patch for the black and amber clad side. Doon’s Adam English broke the host’s scoring sequence but that man Mackessy and Mossy Keoghan tagged on efforts for

Killian Doyle gets past Mike Casey and William O Donoghue

No going down!

Cats nine to the good as 1A status secured the home side to leave the Cats lead at a healthy seven points with about ten minutes of the first half remaining.

Another of Limerick’s late changes, Tom Morrissey struck over a fine point before O’Loughlin’s duo Paddy Deegan and Jordan Molloy got on the scoresheet, either side of another David Reidy placed ball. Former captain Deegan was then the recipient of the games first yellow card, Cork whistler Colm Lyons noting the versatile O’Loughlin man’s name.

Four more scores followed before the short whistle sounded, three from the accurate TJ Reid and one from the unlikeliest of sources, Tullaroan’s Tommy Walsh. Limerick were dealt a blow before the interval when Cathal O’Neill was forced to leave the field injured, the Crecora/Manister man replaced by Effin’s Patrick O’Donovan

as the sides headed to the changing rooms with the home side 11-points ahead with nine different scorers on the board.

When play resumed, Kilkenny didn’t appear to be in the mood to rest on their laurels, and they started quickly with points from TJ (f), a third of the day for Fionan Mackessy and another for Mossy. Kiely’s men managed one in this period, a fine point from Ballybrown’s Colin Coughlan. The Treaty then found another gear and hit four without reply thanks to efforts from Patrick O’Donovan, a second point from Coughlin to augment a brace of free’s from David Reidy.

Graigue Ballycallan’s Billy Ryan hit his second point before The Sash’s Martin Keoghan split the posts with another tidy score. Dromin/Athlacca’s Reidy knocked over two more points to add

Richie Reid making his clearance as Seamus Flanagan can only watch Martin Keoghan strikes over a kilkenny point as hes tackled by Mike Casey

Jordan Molloy heavily tackled as he tries to gain possession

to a lovely effort from Doon’s Adam English. The Cats lead was down to eight, but again Mossy continued his fine form by dispatching another white flag raiser.

John Kiely then sent on Donnacha Ó Dálaigh in place of Seamus Flanagan and the Monaleen man got in on the scoring act shortly after. Aidan O’Connor registered a couple of points for the men in green and the lead was cut to six with about 12 minutes remaining in the second period. Emeralds Killian Doyle then replaced the injured Cian Kenny while Dicksboro’s Harry Shine entered the fray in place of Luke Hogan. The next two scores came from the visitors, South Liberties Barry Nash and another Reidy placed ball making it a 2-score game as we entered the final stretch. No doubt, a week of training

Scorers for Kilkenny: T.J. Reid (0-10, 8 frees); M. Keoghan (0-7); F. Mackessy (0-3, 1 free); C. Kenny, B. Ryan, J. Donnelly (0-2 each); P. Deegan, J. Molloy, T. Walsh (0-1 each).

Scorers for Limerick: D. Reidy (0-8, 7 frees); T. Morrissey, C. Coughlan, A. O’Connor (0-2 each); S. O’Brien, E. Hurley, P. O’Donovan, A. English, A. O’Connor, D. Ó Dalaigh (0-1 each).

KILKENNY: E. Murphy; M. Butler, H. Lawlor, T. Walsh; S. Murphy, R. Reid, P. Deegan; J. Molloy, C. Kenny; F. Mackessy, B. Ryan, J. Donnelly (c); L. Hogan, T.J. Reid, M. Keoghan.

Subs for Kilkenny: K. Doyle for J. Molloy (temp 48-49); K. Doyle for C Kenny (inj 57); H. Shine for L. Hogan (59); E. Lyng for F. Mackessy (66); P. McDonald for J. Molloy, G. Dunne for T.J. Reid (both 70+3).

Sent off P. Deegan (second yellow, 70+4).

LIMERICK: S. Dowling; M. Casey, S. Finn, B. Nash; C. Coughlan, W. O’Donoghue, E. Hurley; A. English, C. Lynch (c); T. Morrissey, D. Reidy, C. O’Neill; S. Flanagan, S. O’Brien, A. O’Connor.

Subs for Limerick: P. O’Donovan for C. O’Neill (34); D. Ó Dalaigh for S. Flanagan (53); E. Stokes for T. Morrissey, M. Houlihan for A. English (both 70+1); O. O’Farrell for S. O’Brien (70+2).

Referee: C. Lyons (Cork)

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Character, hunger, desire and a much-improved team performance.

That Was Derek Lyng’s thoughts in the aftermath of this crucial win over Limerick in UPMC Nowlan Park. Mossy superb again – TJ reliable as ever.

The defence was better, like we know they can be. So 1A status secured, and all thoughts turn to championship, which is just over a month away.

The management have used the league to look at some younger players, the Connellan’s, Harry Shine, Aidan Tallis, Zac Bay Hammond amongst them. Fionan Mackessy is beginning to look like a huge asset to the Noresiders. Don’t forget, Adrian Mullen is still to return, while his clubmate, Eoin Cody missed the win over The Treaty. Captain John Donnelly got some minutes towards the end of the league campaign and will again be vital to Kilkenny hopes this season.

I’m sure the midfield dilemma will continue to dominate conversations across the County, and the management will need to get the engine room right for the battle with Galway in April. There’s a Leinster championship to defend. Rest and recover.

44

kilkennyobserver.ie

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Bríd Mackey, wish to apply to the above authority for full planning permission to construct a detached domestic garage and all associated site works at Clonassy, Mullinavat, Co. Kilkenny.

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

Signed: Bríd Mackey

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Bill Carrigan and Eileen O’Neill, wish to apply for planning permission for an extension to existing dwelling house and new garage, including all necessary site works, at Clarabricken, Clifden, Clara, Co. Kilkenny.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I Noel Phelan am applying to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the construction of an underground slurry storage tank and all associated site works at Templemartin, Co. Kilkenny.

The application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during Office hours i.e. 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Tracy and Barry Curran, intend to apply for outline permission for a new dwelling, detached garage, vehicular entrance onto public road, wastewater treatment system, private well and all associated site works at Lowhill, Ballinakill, 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. to 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) 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.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

45

kilkennyobserver.ie

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. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.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.B.

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. A.S.

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. A.ON.

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. J.M

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

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. S.B.

46

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

Classifieds Motors

Classified section To advertise your business in our classified section call in or telephone: 056 777 1463, or email: accounts @kilkennyobserver.ie

087 2587745

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

47

Classifieds Motors

48

Advertisement

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 21st March 2025