Kilkenny Observer 21 November 2025

Camogie is given stick

‘I want to move on,’ says fraudster Meagher of management role

A man convicted of fraud who has been appointed to the management of the Kilkenny camogie team has said he just wants to move on with his life. There was surprise among many in local GAA circles that Kilkenny Camogie would appoint a man with a recent conviction for fraud to help manage the county team in the aftermath of the DJ Carey case.

James ‘Jimmy’ Meagher was named as part of a fiveman team to replace Tommy Shefflin — brother of former Kilkenny star Henry Shefflin — who stood down earlier this year after one season in charge. He had been a selector with Tommy Shefflin since 2024. There has also been some online criticism of the appoint-

Top of the World Paschal! The Bank, that is ...

Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe, who resigned from the Government, has today, Friday November 21, vacated his TD seat to take up a position at the World Bank

The minister has been offered the role of Managing Director and Chief Knowledge Officer – effectively the No. 2 position at the bank `– and will be based in Washington DC. He had informed the Taoiseach and Tánaiste earlier that he was accepting the leading role.

The board of the bank, the largest development bank in the world, approved the appointment on Monday night. November 17.

Tanaiste Simon Harris has been confirmed as the incoming Minister for Finance.

Paschal Donohoe had served as a public representative for more than 20 years. His resignation now triggers a by-election in Dublin Central. So, farewell then Paschal. We wish you well in your new role.

Comhghairdeas leat...

ment of an all-male team.

Meagher, dubbed the ‘Sliotar Swindler’, was convicted in 2022 of defrauding a friend of €41,000 after he falsely claimed the money was to be used to finance the production and transport of sliotars for GAA Cúl Camps.

Meagher told the Sunday Independent: “It’s in the past and I’d prefer to leave it be-

hind me. I’m incredibly sorry for what happened. I’d prefer to leave it in the past. It was a tough time and I hurt a lot of people.”

Meagher said he “absolutely” owned what he did. “I want to move on with my life,” he said. “I am genuinely sorry for what happened.”

Meagher, who previously held county development jobs

with Antrim and Clare GAA, had told his childhood friend who lived in Australia that he had “secured contracts with Croke Park to supply sliotars”. He told the man that he could expect to double his investment.

When his friend returned from Australia, he learned there was no such business. Despite repeated efforts,

DJ Carey: and now the TV series

A new RTÉ documentary series from Fine Point Films, the makers of Kneecap, Quinn Country and Taking Back Control, tells the story of the rise and fall of hurling legend DJ Carey over two hourlong episodes on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.

Starting Monday, November 24 at 9.35pm, DJ Carey:

The Dodger charts the heroic rise of hurling legend DJ Carey and his dramatic fall from grace, pleading guilty in court to scamming people out of large amounts of money by pretending to have cancer.

A hurling protégé who became a GAA icon, DJ Carey’s speed, skill and grace surpassed all expectations and

led him to be widely considered the greatest hurler in living memory. The documentary explores how a man lauded internationally and recognised by his initials finds himself pleading guilty to defrauding people of hundreds of thousands of euros by falsely claiming to have cancer.

Featuring never-beforeseen footage of DJ Carey and interviews with victims, sports journalists, and those who know him best, the documentary uncovers a complex narrative of charisma, ambition, and betrayal.

In the wake of Carey’s sentencing, director Trevor Birney charts a Shakespear-

ean fall from grace of epic proportions that left a generation of hurling fans, and an unknown number of victims, reeling. The story is told with the help of journalist Eimear Ní Bhraonáin who has been following DJ Carey’s story for years.

See also Page 6

Meagher would not repay the money.

Judge Elva Duffy sentenced Meagher to two years in jail with 18 months suspended after he had pleaded guilty to nine counts of fraud. The judge convicted him of one count of fraud and took the other eight counts into consideration. The victim has since been repaid €41,000.

It’s Christmas in the red

It is going to be a costly Christmas for all of us as food, energy bills and even the sacred pint are all rising in prices.

According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures show that inflation is now at its highest level in 18 months. A survey shows that most of us are planning to cut back on our spending this holiday season as the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit our pockets.

Full report Page 4

Young lives struck down

A young life, full of potential, full of promise, ended abruptly and families, loved ones, left shocked and confused. How could this happen? Why did this happen? Why our child? As family, we break fast of a morning and go our separate ways, to school or work, or off for an expectant fun-fuelled Saturday evening out and instinctively expect to be together come close of day. It should have been so for the families of Chloe, Alan, Dylan, Shay and Chloe, who died in the accident in Co Louth.

Paul Hopkins Page 6

Hell of a Troy!

So, where were you when Troy Parrot put the ball in Hungary’s net? Where were you when he scored that marvellous, miraculous almost, goal in the Puskas Arena on that Sunday night?

In the pub, I presume. Eyes glued to the telly, blood pressure soaring, hoping, hoping, hoping against all odds for a miracle....

Gerry Moran Page 20

We’re fearful of a (in the) red Christmas

It is going to be a costly Christmas for all of us as food, energy bills and even the sacred pint are all rising in prices.

According to the Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures show that inflation is now at its highest level in 18 months.

A survey shows that most of us are planning to cut back on our spending this festive season as the cost-of-living crisis continues to hit our pockets.

Food prices have continued to rise, with dairy items such as butter, cheese and milk going up, according to the consumer price index for last month.

Overall consumer prices rose by 2.9% in the 12 months to October, the CSO said. This was up from the annual increase of 2.7% in September, and represented the highest annual rate of inflation since March 2024, the CSO said.

The sector with the largest increases in the 12 months was education, where costs were up by 8.4%.

This reflects higher thirdlevel education costs.

The Government has reduced the student contribution fee by €500 this year, but last year it was lowered by €1,000.

Food and non-alcoholic beverages prices are up by

4.5% on last year.

Statistician Anthony Dawson said: “There were price increases in the 12 months to October 2025 for Irish cheddar per kg (+80c), a pound of butter (+64c), two

litres of full-fat milk (+22c), an 800g loaf of white sliced pan (+7c), an 800g loaf of brown sliced pan (+3c), and spaghetti per 500g (+1c).”

A rise in the cost of electricity and higher mortgage

interest repayments were recorded by the CSO.

Several electricity providers put their prices up this month and homeowners who are coming off fixed-rate mortgages are now likely to

be facing higher rates.

A breakdown of the price rises shows a range of household staples continuing to go up.

The cost of a white sliced pan was up 7c to €1.68 last

month compared with the same month last year.

Sirloin steak per kilogram is now €22.04, a rise of €4.83 on the same month last year. A 28% rise in a year.

Topside beef is now €3.10 dearer per kilogram than last year, at €15.91. This is a rise of 24%.

A leg of lamb now costs €17.41, up €2.91 on last year.

The price of a pint of Guinness in a pub is now 25c dearer than last year at a national average price of €6.06, and prices of more expensive beers shot up by 25c to €6.50 a pint.

Two litres of full-fat milk now costs €2.46, a rise of 22c in a year.

Meanwhile, more than half of consumers are planning to cut back on dining out and entertainment this Christmas because of cost-of-living pressures.

A majority plan to give smaller gifts, according to the latest KPMG Next Gen Retail survey.

One in five of those surveyed said they plan to use credit facilities to pay for Christmas.

The survey found that 77% of shoppers expect Christmas to be far more expensive this year and 40pc plan to spend less than last year, this marks an increase in cautious spending habits.

The nightmare every parent lives in fear of

Death is never easy. And the death of a young person is especially heartbreaking. There was so much future and so much possibility that is now

forever gone. No more birthdays, graduations or wedding days.

A young life, full of potential, full of promise, ended abruptly and families, loved ones, left shocked and confused. How could this happen? Why did this happen? Why our child?

As family, we break fast of a morning and go our separate

O’Brien ‘holds no malice’ toward Carey over €135k.

Businessman Denis O’Brien, who was defrauded out of around €135,000 by former Kilkenny hurler DJ Carey, has said he has “no malice towards him at all” and “hopes he gets the help he needs”.

Five-time All-Ireland-winning hurler Carey was jailed recently for five-and-a-half years after he pleaded guilty to lying about a cancer diagnosis in order to make a financial gain.

Carey received nearly €400,000 from 22 victims after faking his illness for the best part of a decade.

Mr O’Brien, one of Ireland’s richest people, told Gardaí that he was deceived over an eight-year period. He provided Carey with accommodation, a car, employment and financial support.

The Digicel founder was in Co Carlow to speak at the inaugural Club Carlow Business Summit, an event held to raise funds to complete a new centre of excellence for county GAA teams.

Fianna Fáil’s former presidential candidate Jim Gavin was also one of the guests, making his first public appearance since dropping out of the race after it was revealed he owed a former tenant €3,300 in overpaid rent.

Kilkenny hurling great Brian Cody and successful businesswoman Anne Heraty, who founded recruitment company CPL Resources, were also guest speakers at the event.

Organisers promised the business summit would bring together “some of Ireland’s most influential voices in sport

New research published by Repak today has revealed that the Irish public will be more eco-conscious this Christmas.

One in three (30%) adults in Ireland are going to upcycle items to gift to a loved one

ways, to school or work, or off for an expectant fun-fuelled Saturday evening out and instinctively expect to be together – or by their phone – come close of day.

It should have been so for the families of Chloe, Alan, Dylan, Shay and Chloe, who died in the accident in Co Louth on Saturday night, November 15. It only takes a step onto an

unfamiliar road on a night out to make it all go horribly wrong. How is it possible for their families to go on with this agony and grief?

Imagining their child at the table, instinctively listening for the door for them to come home in the early hours of a Sunday morning. For their broad smile to light up once more.

The ‘cause and effect’ of life, the effect of these five young sentient beings living a full and natural lifespan, growing up, falling in love, perhaps rearing families, growing old with contentment and fine lines... well, the people who were yet to come into their future lives can now never have that ‘effect’ in their lives.

Those lives on that stage can

now never be played out. Despite our relative statistics in Europe, death on our roads is happening too often, begging the question as to what can be done to stop the carnage and where the figures for road deaths remain high for us?

Destroyed lives and lifetimes of heartache know no unbounded numbers...but even one is one too many.

and business” and “explore how collaboration, resilience and community engagement can drive economic progress”.

During a doorstep after the event, Mr O’Brien was asked by reporter to comment on the sentence handed down to Carey.

“I have huge sympathy for DJ Carey,” he said. “I would hope that he will get his life back together again and I would have no bad feelings towards him at all.

“I hope he creates a new career for himself, or whatever he turns his hand to, when he comes out after his sentence.

“I have absolute sympathy for DJ Carey and I’ve no malice towards him at all. I would be still fond of him, and I wish his family well as well.

“I hope that he can find his feet again and get going again in life, and I hope that he will get the help that he needs.”

In a victim-impact statement, Mr O’Brien accused Carey of “extraordinary deceit” and said he “took advantage of my friendship”.

“To my embarrassment, I was completely duped by DJ Carey,” he said.

It was revealed in court that the successful entrepreneur provided Carey with the €60,000 that covered a settlement he reached with AIB in 2017.

The bank hit him with a judgment of €9.5m, and after the sale of his properties in the K Club and Mount Juliet were taken into account, AIB agreed to write down his remaining debt of around €7m once it received the €60,000 as full and final settlement.

and a similar amount (33%) will buy gifts that can have a second life to ensure that they last longer. Almost 4 in 5 (78%) shoppers see sustainability as an important factor when buying gifts.

Take heart... take a dip...

Brendan Courtney, above, stripped off for a bone-chilling dip in the Irish Sea – and wants everyone in Kilkenny to take the plunge as part of a major fundraising drive.

The TV presenter and fashion designer braved the cold as he urged the public to sign up for the Irish Heart Foundation’s 12 Dips in December challenge, supported by Daybreak.

The ‘Keys to My Life’ host knows the importance of the charity’s work – his father Frank died in 2017 following a stroke, while Courtney manages his own high blood pressure.

“My father was a very funny man with a great

sense of humour and while the stroke slowed him down, it didn’t take his sense of fun, and I miss that every day,” he said.

“I swim most days, it is such a leveller, it brings you right into your body and holds you in the present, it is also great for your immune system and general mental health. You never regret a sea swim, especially when it’s about raising awareness to help save people’s lives.”

The Irish Heart Foundation is asking everyone in Kilkenny to register and begin raising funds by signing in at https://fundraise.irishheart.ie/event/12-

dips-in-december-2025 .

All you have to do is dip 12 times throughout December, individually or with a group, in open water, in a pool or ice bath, and track it on your fundraising page.

Funds raised will help save lives from heart disease and stroke and increase the level of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training.

“At Daybreak, we’re incredibly proud to support the Irish Heart Foundation’s 12 Dips in December challenge,” said Janine Watson, Head of Retail Sales with Musgrave Wholesale Partners, operators of the Daybreak retail franchise.

“Community is at the

heart of everything we do, and this initiative is a fantastic way to bring our retailers and their teams together across Ireland, have some fun, and raise vital funds for heart health.

“We’re excited to see the impact we can make by rallying local communities around such an important cause.”

CEO of the Irish Heart Foundation, Emma Balmaine, said fundraising events were crucial to continue providing muchneeded support and services to people across Ireland affected by heart disease and stroke, including CPR training.

What really matters for our young people

Good health, job security and owning a home are the top markers for success for young people in Ireland, according to Bank of Ireland’s new ‘Youth Mind and Money’ Report.

The survey of 543 people aged 13-30 examines attitudes towards finances, mental health and happiness offering a snapshot of how young people across Ireland are feeling about finances, success and their wellbeing.

The link between being in control of finances and

mental health is clear, with 70% saying that they feel better when their finances are in check.

Spending time with friends (76%), family (69%) and having money to save and spend (64%) are the top three factors contributing to Irish teenagers’ happiness. Doing well in college and school is their number one marker of success (59%) followed by being healthy (55%).

Parents’ attitudes towards finances have the strongest

influence on young people’s feelings towards money - three quarters say their parents’ attitudes towards money shapes their own view, and nearly half (47%) say their financial goals are similar to their parents.  Teenagers also say that face to face contact and in-person advice is important when seeking out financial advice.  Ireland’s young adults are the least concerned about saving with 74% saying it’s important to them, versus 86% of teens and 88% of

25–30-year-olds. However, while 82% recognise that there are considerable benefits to saving money, just over half (52%) are saving for the short-term, prioritising the next 6-12 months rather than the future. Being healthy is their number one marker of success (63%), higher than any other age group. Having a secure job is important (62%) while 43% say being able to travel the world is what success looks like to them.

COMMENT: PAUL HOPKINS

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

Health services lagging behind medical science

There was a time when we didn’t talk about the Big C, as it was euphemistically called, or about its invasion in a patient – often a death sentence. Thankfully, cancer (and other illnesses) is now openly talked about, with medics up front with a patient about their treatment and potential prognosis. People now talk about “Living with cancer”.

Medical science has come a long way and there is a greater chance of surviving cancer, with drugs being daily fine-tuned in laboratories. While those with cancer still go through a lot of aggressive treatment with chemotherapy and radiation, which can be utterly debilitating, now we have the greater hope of killing off the rogue cells – if found early.

The Director of Clinical Affairs at the Irish Cancer Society says it is “very disappointing” that the national screening programme for

breast cancer looks set to miss its screening target for a third year in a row. This year’s target for BreastCheck – which screens symptomfree women aged 50-69 – was 219,000, but it is expected that just 170,000 will be screened, many women, understandably, afraid to go.

Amy Nolan says we need to consider reducing the age range to 45. “We know women are being diagnosed at a younger age now and we really see the value and the benefit of identifying those cancers at a younger age.”

She concedes there is a delay in women getting their appointment because of a shortage of radiologists. News reports confirm a global shortage of radiologists, with issues ranging from increased workloads and burnout to inefficient training allocations, leading to patient delays and potential failures in treatment. Several suggestions have

been made to halt this scenario, including expanding the roles of radiologists to further interpret body images.

A terminally ill cancer patient says she has heightened “scanxiety” with a prolonged waiting time for her test results, as the HSE admit needing more radiologists to cope with a 20 per cent rise in CT scans in Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.

Brenda Courell – who at one time baby-sat my three children – has metastatic Stage 4 breast cancer which has spread to her lungs and sternum, leaving her with an initial prognosis six years ago of between four and seven years.

For the last two years, advanced treatment has kept the tumours from growing, and Brenda has enjoyed partial remission. However, she is aware that at any time, the invasive tumours could start to grow again or metas-

tasise somewhere else in her body.

The 56-year-old was being scanned every four months, with results the following week. Then the results came two weeks after the CT scans. Now she has to be scanned every three months, and the last two times, she has had

“Very expensive form of chemo that I selfinject ...

to wait three weeks for her results.

“It’s so upsetting. I don’t know what is going on inside me,” she says “I’m a ticking time bomb. My cancer could have spread, the tumours may have grown, and I have to wait three weeks to find out.

“I’m emotionally drained. The treatment has already taken its toll on my body. I’m angry with the system, fragile and hugely emotional. The hardest thing is that when I’m being scanned, someone in that hospital knows if my cancer has spread or not –but I have to wait three weeks to find out.”

In a statement the HSE says CT scan volumes had risen about 20 per cent in the north east. Three full-time radiologists had recently been recruited and the hospital was now seeking a further two.

“The average turnaround time for outpatient CT reports is currently 15

working days, and we are working towards the national standard of 10 working days,” the statement concludes. I am living with cancer. It’s very much in the early stages, and came to me two years ago via a gene from my mother who died from secondary Leukemia. Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS) or Myelodysplasia affects the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells, leading to a variety of cell deficiencies. The good news is that, thanks to a very expensive form of chemo – not available in my mother’s time of need – that I self-inject every three weeks, my consultant says old age will more likely kill me before this deficiency in my genetic make-up does.

I count myself blessed more than some. But I fear that, unless our health services keep up, we will have another horror like the cervical smear tragedy

Children Santa Clause forgets

Grooming of children for sexual exploitation is tragically becoming increasingly commonplace, according to Childline by ISPCC, Ireland's only 24/7 listening s er vice for young people. It has now launched its national Christmas appeal –revealing the hidden reality of Christmas for so many children and young people across Ireland. For some, their Christmas dreams do not come true. Their living nightmare simply continues.

Conditions met for a referendum on unity –Funchion

Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland

South, Kathleen Funchion, has told the British Minister for the Constitution and European Union Relations that the conditions for an Irish reunification referendum have been met and that b oth g overnments must now work with civil society to outline a clear vision for a united Ireland.

MEP Funchion was speaking in London at a meeting of the Parliamentary Partnership Assembly between Westminster and the European Parliament.

Sp eaking after the exchange of views with EU and Br itish parliamentarians, MEP Funchion said: "In our presidential election last month, we elected Catherine Connolly to the office of Uachtarán na hÉireann, and I’m sure everyone would like to join me in congratulating President Connolly, who was inaugurated just last week.

"The presidential campaign itself, reflected the debates and discussions happening right across the island of Ireland, in both public and private settings," she said.

“That is the conversation on the constitutional future of our island. President Connolly was elected in an historic landslide. Her inaugural address reflected her campaign to be a President of Unity.

"I believe that the conditions laid out in the Good Fr iday Agreement for a referendum on Irish Re-unification have been met.”

MEP Funchion concluded by referencing the Brexit referendum campaign, which was marred by misinformation: "A referendum is coming, and it is my view that this referendum needs to be based on facts. Particularly in the present era, w e must do what we can to combat misinformation.”

Annie* is 11-years-old. She should be looking forward to a Christmas full of warmth and joy. Instead, she is living in a state of constant terror. Her mother, who is in prostitution, regularly forces her to have sex with multiple men. She gives Annie anti-anxiety medication and brings Annie to hotels where is she abused.

Jenny’s* mother, who struggles with substance use disorder, exploits her daughter to clear her constant

debts.  The teenager is forced into sexual acts with older men in return for drugs.

Sophie* was just 13 years of age when she was sexually exploited and blackmailed by criminals she met online, who constantly knew her whereabouts and told her they would kill her parents if she did not do what they said. This included coercing her into creating sexually explicit videos and images.

Annie*, Jenny* and Sophie* all turned to Childline for

Needs of older people 'must not be overlooked'

help and support. And they are not alone.

Whilst Childline data shows that 40% of children who turn to Childline about sexual abuse have been groomed by sexual predators (specifically stated), the reality is that many others are likely to have had a grooming element.

Childline data also shows that:

• The Childline team spends the equivalent of 146 full days a year talking

to children and young people in immediate crisis.

• 35 children and young people are in the process of trying to take their own life whilst in contact with the Childline team.

• Childline receives over 2,300 contacts a year in relation to sexual, physical and emotional abuse.

• 300 children a year contact Childline about sexual abuse involving rape, incest and being forced to watch and/or perform sexual acts

Caroline O'Sullivan, Director of Services, ISPCC said: “Our frontline team at ISPCC and our dedicated volunteers at Childline know we are in the midst of a crisis and we are hearing about it all the more regularly in the media too. The bravery and courage of the children and young people who turn to Childline for support is insurmountable. By supporting our appeal, the public can help us protect children."

“It is projected that the number of people aged 65 years and over will represent around a quarter of Ireland’s population in 2050. Yet, even though we know Irish communities are ageing, the needs of older people are still being overlooked in policy and decision-making, time and time again.”

That’s according to the CEO of Active Retirement Ireland, Fran Brennan, who is urging the Government to commit to promises in its current programme to support people, including those from Kilkenny, to age well and thrive in their later years.

Making the shingles vaccine available to older people over the age of 65 in Kilkenny, many of whom are on fixed and limited income, as part of the national immunisation programme, is

one of the key issues that Mr Brennan is calling for urgent government action on.

Mr Brennan made the call on the eve of the start of Active Retirement Ireland’s National Bowls Competition, its flagship annual celebration of positive ageing, taking place in Killarney. Three Kilkenny teams took part in the tournament, namely the Mullinavat Gold and Silver teams, and the Slieverue Cats.

Supported by Hidden Hearing, the tournament brought together 250 players from Active Retirement Associations across the country, making up 64 teams, spotlighting the drive and self-determination of older people to age well and flourish in their later life.

Mr Brennan said: “In its Programme for Government, the Fovernment set

out a commitment to ensure thriving communities, to support a caring society and to address poverty and social exclusion. Unfortunately, we saw very little in their first Budget announcement to put them on course to realising these aspirations.

"If the Government is to achieve its commitment to ensuring thriving communities, we need meaningful whole-of-government strategies and frameworks to be developed and implemented so that older people in Kilkenny and across Ireland are supported to live their best life, with dignity, independence and equality.

"Active Retirement Ireland’s annual National Bowls Competition is testament to the drive of older people to thrive, and their right to live independent, full lives in

which they can stay socially connected and be active participants in their communities. They deserve every support in this endeavour.”

Further key concerns that Mr Brennan is seeking Government action on, to support older people in Kilkenny and across the country, are:

• The need for pension fairness and pension adequacy in the form of a benchmarked contributory state pension at 34 per cent of average weekly earnings that rises in line with wage growth and inflation that addresses pension gender disparity.

• A voice for older people in policy and decision making through the establishment of an independent Commissioner for Ageing and Older People in Ireland, similar to that which is in place in Northern Ireland and Wales,

that sits outside of and works with government across all portfolios ensure age equality and that the rights and interests of older people are considered and promoted.

• Strategies to support positive ageing through the institution and implementation of a comprehensive, wholeof-government positive ageing framework in Ireland that looks beyond the care and medical needs of older people to protect all aspects of ageing and ensure people in Ireland are empowered and supported to age well.

* Pictured above at the 2024 Active Retirement National Bowls competition competitors representing teams from Active Retirement Associations (ARAs) across Ireland.

Photo: Don MacMonagle

increasing costs and growing financial pressures, children’s books have become a luxury item for many families. But books are essential for every child, and we need your help in Kilkenny to give the gift of a book to children and young people who need it most." Well, that's Christmas

Children’s Books Ireland are calling on people in Kilkenny to support this year’s ‘Gift a Book’ appeal which will see over 2,000 books delivered to children in need across Ireland, including those accessing support services, experiencing homelessness and living in Direct Provision

centres in Kilkenny.

Building on the success of last year’s appeal, which raised over €15,000 through generous public donations, Children’s Books Ireland is once again partnering with community groups and charities in Kilkenny – including the Droichead Family Re-

source Centre– to ensure that a book reaches children in need in time for Christmas.

Titles to be gifted to children this year come from a range of Irish artists, which Children’s Books Ireland hope will ignite a lifelong love of reading, including ‘Let’s Play Rugby’ by

Gordon D’Arcy and Paul Howard and illustrated by Ashwin Chacko, ‘Letters to a Monster’ by Patricia Forde and illustrated by Sarah Warburton, and ‘Solo’ by Gráinne O’Brien.

Elaina Ryan, CEO of Children’s Books Ireland, said: “In a world with ever-

As I See It Marianne Heron

Time to end maddening delays at CAMHS

There are times when the disconnect between what the Government promises on paper and the reality of what is happening on the ground is enough to reduce you to head-banging frustration. Children’s mental health, delivered via the Primary Care Child Psychology Service and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), is a case in point. It’s a tale which doesn’t make for happy reading with an endless repeating history of unmet needs, long delays and where, rather than improving, things seem to go backwards. Wait times for assessment and treatment for children with mental problems – and one in 10 among children are estimated to have disorders severe enough for impairment –grow longer.

According to an RTE report there are 18,500 awaiting primary care with 7,500 waiting for more than a year.

In one area of Dublin the wait can be up to 13 years. Primary care is meant to be the first step for children with mild to moderate mental problems before being seen by CAMHS for children and adolescents up to 18 where wait times are long too, with 4,437 on the waiting list in May this year, with some waits of up to seven years. It isn’t only the waiting child who is affected but their whole family, as members struggle with the impact of depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), eating disorders and suicide ideation.

Back in 2008, after a survey carried out after the Government’s ‘A Vision For Change’, an official statement ran: “For those experiencing mental health problems good outcomes are most likely if the child or adolescent and the family have

access to timely co-ordinated advice, assessment and evidence based treatment.”

Fast forward 2022 to the Maskey Report on CAMHS, after the South Kerry Scandal where 198 young people were wrongly prescribed what amounted to chemical restraint, emphasised the need to “drive progress” in the service. This was followed by a 2023 HSE initiative National Youth Mental Health Office to improve service delivery, access and reduce waiting lists, but there has been little progress. What is going wrong? “Some of the problems are definitely due to lack of funding and lack of staff,” says Dr Kieran Moore at the Paediatric Liaison Psychiatry Department at Crumlin Children’s Hospital. ”But what is also clear is the way things are done makes little or no logical sense at times and makes problems worse for children and their families.”

Mcguinness welcomes €90m school investment

BY JOHN MCGUINNESS - TD

Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow/ Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has today warmly welcomed the significant announcement by the Minister for Education, Helen McEntee, of a €90 million Climate Action Summer Works Scheme for 2026, which includes major investment for schools across both Kilkenny and Carlow. Deputy McGuinness particularly welcomed the ring-fencing of €30 million for the refurbishment of science laboratories, a move he described as "critical for preparing our students for the future."

"This is a landmark investment in our educational infrastructure," said Deputy McGuinness.

"I am especially pleased to see a dedicated focus on modernising science labs. This forward-thinking approach directly supports the new curriculum and ensures our students in Kilkenny and Carlow have

access to top-tier facilities, equipping them with the practical skills needed for the modern workforce, particularly in science and technology."

The announcement confirms approval for 297 projects nationwide, with a strong representation from the Carlow/Kilkenny constituency. The approved schools in the constituency and their project types are:

In Kilkenny:

· Lisdowney N S, Ballyragget – Fabric Defects

· S N Mhichil Naofa, Stopford – Fabric Defects

· S N Muire Gan Smal, Graigenamanagh – External Environment Projects

· Scoil Naomh Eoin Dea, Kilkenny – Climate Action

· Community School, Castlecomer – Climate Action & Science Labs

In Carlow:

· Newtown Dunleckney Mxd, Muinebheag – Climate Action & Electrical Works

· Rathoe Ns, Rathoe –Climate Action

· S N Naomh Fhiach, Graiguecullen – External Environment Projects

· Presentation College,

Carlow – Climate Action

· Tullow Community School, Tullow – Climate Action & Curricular Requirements

Deputy McGuinness highlighted the dual benefit of the scheme, which merges essential maintenance with a clear climate action agenda.

"This isn't just about maintenance; it's about building a sustainable future. Schools can now undertake vital energyefficiency upgrades, install LED lighting, and provide facilities for active travel like bike racks. This reduces their carbon footprint and operating costs, while also teaching our children the importance of environmental stewardship by example."

"The wide geographical spread of these approvals across our constituency is very welcome. This investment will ensure that our school buildings are not only fit-for-purpose but are modern, efficient, and inspiring places for our children to learn and grow. I look forward to seeing these projects progress and will be working to ensure a smooth rollout for all schools involved."

In any other area of child illness patients are seen by GPs and in hospitals 24/7 according to need, ”In the area of mental health this is exactly what allegedly does

“There are 18,500 awaiting primary care with 7,500 waiting more than a year...

not happen,” says Dr Moore. “Primary care psychologists work in the community like GPs and they are meant to be the first step. Instead of being seen as needed they are put on endless waiting lists for an obscene number of years,” says Dr Moore.

They may be told to go to their GP or to an emergency department. A few psychiatrists work in paediatric hospitals as child and adolescent paediatric liaison psychiatrists, like Dr Moore, where most of their time is spent seeing patients who have come through the emergency department who are not getting help anywhere else.

“The number of hoops patients have to jump through to see anyone because they have no right to simply turn up at an urgent facility according to clinical need grows all the time. Imagine if patients with a condition like asthma where their parents were compelled to fill up 20

pages’ form with symptoms, and then wait for weeks or months to get a reply from the GP upon which patients would have to wait 13 years to be seen? There would rightly be a national outcry,” says Dr Moore.

The sad fact is that very often it takes a tragedy to push the Government into taking remedial action, particularly where children’s health is concerned and children’s spinal surgery is a glaring example.

Harvey Morrison (9), who suffered from scoliosis died earlier this year, spent years waiting for surgery. His parents Gillian and Stephen Morrison want answers so that other children won’t suffer the same fate. The Government has agreed to a statutory inquiry.

Children with mental conditions shouldn’t have to wait for tragedy before action is taken to reform a system which isn’t fit for purpose.

Natural skin care with Trilogy

Trilogy is known for its natural skincare formulations, and as most of you know, I love this skincare range. It has been my go-to skincare product range for many years now. I love this time of the year because Trilogy always bring out a lovely range of Limited Edition and great value gift sets. Out of these I’ve chosen my favourites for the most common skin concerns we come across in store.

First up is the Liven-Up Ritual Set, this set includes a Line Smoothing Day Cream, a Bakuchiol oil, and a Replenishing Night Cream. They contain actives like Bakuchiol, a plant-based retinol alternative, rosehip oil and antioxidants alongside Hyaluronic Acid and Glycablend that all work together to support and protect the skin. The Glycablend protects your collagen while the hyaluronic

acid is there to help reduce fine lines, and create plumper healthier looking skin.

Then, the Glow Ritual is built around brightening, so this is ideal for dull or uneven skin tone. This set brings together three Vitamin C products, the Cleansing Mousse, Super Serum and Moisturising Lotion. These work to cleanse, treat and hydrate the skin while enhancing luminosity and addressing pigmentation. It targets brightening and smoothing skin tone, and is suitable for all skin types.

Finally, the Plumping Ritual focuses on deep hydration and skin firmness. With Hyaluronic Acid+ actives plus peptides, this bundle supports skin that is dehydrated, lacks bounce or appears less full. The set includes Hyaluronic Acid+ Water Cream, an Ultra Serum, and an Ultra Hydrating Face Cream. It’s a complete hydration gift set to boost skin’s moisture, firmness and radiance.

If you are thinking of gifting a Trilogy set or treating yourself to one then, have a think about what the main skinneed is. For example, you might have heard them talking about the fine lines that they are seeing around the eyes or mouth, poor skin tone, texture or plumpness. These sets are fantastic value and a brilliant way to trial the products, especially if you have never tried them before. It can be difficult to figure out which set to get especially if it’s a gift, but hopefully we’ve made it easier for you. Otherwise, you could call in and we will be happy to help choose the right gift for yourself or your loved one.

CLAIR WHITTY

BY NIALL O’GORMAN, PARTNER, XEINADIN KILKENNY

In a recent economic forecast by Bank of Ireland, they predicted that the Irish economy would grow by almost 11% in 2025. This will make Ireland the fastest-growing advanced economy in the world. Other institutions, such as the IMF, also have a positive outlook for the Irish economy, so you would think the mood in the Irish business is high.

But the reality on the ground is different, with many SMEs in Kilkenny and across the country trying to navigate an increasingly complex business environment. Geopolitical tensions, continued tariff uncertainty and increasing domestic regulations like auto-enrolment are making life as a business owner more challenging than ever.

Yet, despite the headwinds, steps can be taken to turn pressure into progress.

Cautious optimism for hospitality

It must be said that the recent Budget has some shoots of optimism, especially for hospitality.

Walking the streets of Kilkenny City and county it’s evident that tourism is fundamental to the success of the local economy, so there was a huge sigh of relief when Minister for Finance Paschal Donohue announced in the recent Budget that the 9% VAT rate would be reinstated for restaurants and cafes.

Regardless of the strange timing of its introduction in July of next year, this should ease some of the pressure being felt. We welcomed this decision by the Government. Not only does this protect the viability of local businesses, but it also has a positive impact on the wider economic activity that other Kilkenny SMEs depend on.

While the reinstatement is welcome, we are advising clients not to become complacent and take control of their business model. There is some time until this comes into effect, so it’s still vital to look at where you can keep reducing costs where possible. Where can you improve

With thoughtful preparation and a readiness to adjust, Kilkenny business can thrive in 2026

your margins? How can you increase your turnover? A few small changes might make a huge difference to the viability of your business in 2026.

Costs continue to rise

We have seen at the coal face how operating costs have continued to rise in 2025.

Increases in insurance, rents and compliance costs have been on the agenda for some time, and energy costs, which seemed to have eased for a period, are back in the mix. Some SMEs have managed to make savings by changing providers, for example, but these are short-term fixes rather than long-term solutions. The bigger challenge is stepping back and evaluating the business as a whole to identify where operating models can be refined.

Areas we have advised on,which been successful, are looking at labour costs, payroll and operating hours. Take a closer look at customer patterns and see what times

of the week or day your footfall increases and decreases. Some clients have made big changes on this front. Now is the time to review your cost base and cash flow forecasts for early 2026. Where you can, lock in supplier rates and review energy contracts. There may also be opportunities to explore short-term financing or Local Enterprise Office support to maintain stability. These measures will make your operating model more efficient and sustainable to combat any shocks we may face in the new year.

The talent minefield

A big challenge we see throughout our client base is the battle for talent. Attracting new hires, retaining current staff and external factors such as a lack of accommodation are causing enormous strain on Kilkenny SMEs. Despite the barriers, businesses are finding innovative solutions to keep their staff. Benefit packages with bonus

schemes/share options, work flexibility, greater annual leave options and an emphasis on training and long-term career development have all shifted the dial in staff shortages. We have been encouraged to see clients progressing on that front.

The more that SMEs can align workforce planning with their overall commercial goals and communicate that clearly, the stronger their position will be in what remains a very competitive labour market.

New era of technology

A recent report from IBEC stated that nine in 10 SMEs are using AI daily. The dawn of tools such as ChatGPT is changing the way we work and live but also causing headaches for business owners when it comes to compliance and security risks. Whether it’s automation or generative AI, owners are aware that technology has the potential to improve

their business but are unsure where to begin.

We advise our clients to be proactive and not reactive when it comes to investing in emerging technology. Look at your technology mix, look at where your market is and what your competitors are doing. Find pain points within your business, do extensive research and see what pieces of software will benefit those.

Businesses should see it as an investment towards increasing efficiency. It doesn’t need to be large-scale either; something as simple as a project management tool can give you a small change with big advantages.

Once those areas are identified, it becomes far easier to choose a solution that is proportionate to the size and needs of the business.

It is also worth noting that a staged approach to technology adoption allows SMEs to bring staff with them on the journey, building confidence and capacity as new systems are embedded.

If you’re not willing to innovate, you can be sure your competitors will be.

SMEs will show resilience SMEs are entering a phase where the pressures around costs, talent and technology are becoming daily difficulties. Yet, Kilkenny businesses have battled through adversity before, and they will do so again. Every week, we see owners prepared to take tough decisions, adopt new tools and think creatively about securing valuable staff.

As 2026 approaches, Kilkenny SMEs will contend with a trading environment that is uncertain.

Maintaining focus and flexibility will be essential, particularly as economic conditions continue to shift and as workplace technologies, change how routine tasks are delivered.

With thoughtful preparation and a readiness to adjust, the Kilkenny business community will thrive in 2026 and beyond.

How in Ireland we are all getting to live longer

Ireland’s life expectancy is 82.9 years, above the OECD average of 81.1 years, but behind the best performers globally, a new report has revealed.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) ‘Health At A Glance” report showed life expectancy here went up by 0.3 years from 82.6 in 12 months.

Switzerland has the highest life expectancy at 84.3 years,

followed by Japan at 84.1 years and Spain, which comes in at 84 years. Israel’s citizens have a life expectancy of 83.8 years, while Korea sits at 83.5 years, followed by the Swedes at 83.4, the same as Luxembourg, with both France and Australia managing 83 years. The UK is lagging, with a life expectancy of 81 years, while Mexico and Colombia are both bottom of the table at 75.5 years.

Just 65% of people in Ireland were “satisfied with the availability of quality healthcare”, compared with 89pc in Switzerland and 83% in the Netherlands

Last year, health spending in Ireland as a percentage of GDP was 6.9% versus 12.3% in Germany and 11.8% in Austria, 11.3% in Switzerland and 9.7% in Norway.

In 16 OECD countries, health spending accounts for at least 10pc of GDP, and in

the average OECD country, public spending on health represents 15% of government expenditure, according to the report.

In total, there were over three million premature deaths worldwide in 2023 among people aged under 75 that could have been avoided through better prevention and healthcare interventions. Diseases of the circulatory system, such as coronary heart disease and cancer,

are the two leading causes of death, accounting for almost half of all deaths in OECD countries.

Despite most countries having universal healthcare systems, access challenges remain.

Waiting times continue to be a challenge in several countries.

Differences between socioeconomic groups are significant, with people in the lowest-income bracket 2.5 times

more likely to report unmet medical needs than people in the highest-income bracket. While smoking rates have fallen, 15% of adults still smoke daily, and vaping rates are increasing.

OECD Secretary General Mathias Cormann said: “Preventive and primary healthcare interventions can be a cost-effective way to address major risk factors for health, such as obesity, smoking or harmful alcohol use.”

Opinion

If housing plan falters, we will all pay Your Money & You

As the country grapples with skyrocketing rents, inflated property prices, and a record 16,700 people, including over 5,200 children, in emergency accommodation, the Government has launched its latest housing strategy, ‘Delivering Homes, Building Communities’. It was launched last week and promises to deliver 300,000 new homes by 2030. It is the fourth such plan in 12 years, replacing 2021’s ‘Housing For All. This plan represents a step up in ambition. It acknowledges we have the fastest population growth in modern history and a chronic undersupply that’s left families sofa-surfing or trapped in overcrowded conditions.

To make this happen, the plan includes the Government throwing €2.5 billion more at the Land Development Agency to expand its role in acquiring land and building across wider areas. Key pledges include 90,000 ‘starter

John Ellis

homes’ over five years, covering State-supported purchases or renovations for first-time buyers and an average of 12,000 social homes plus 15,000 affordable units yearly. That is a welcome boost, especially when demand has outpaced projections, with 137,000 homes built since the last plan but still not enough to stem the tide. The expanded role for the Land Development

Agency could genuinely accelerate land acquisition and development in underserved areas, potentially unlocking thousands of new homes where they are needed most.

To support this, the plan allocates €12.2 billion for water infrastructure and €3.5 billion for the electricity grid, aiming to “activate supply” by zoning more land, training workers, and implementing modern

construction methods.

Tackling homelessness gets some targeted attention including broader supports for older people, people with disabilities, and Travellers. Next year’s €100 million for buying second-hand properties will prioritise one-bedroom and four-bedroom units for single adults and large families stuck in emergency accommodation.

Measures like ramping up compulsory purchase orders for derelict sites (aiming for 20,000 regenerated homes), ditching no-pets’ policies in rentals, and easing housing list transfers for domestic violence victims show a humane touch.

The plan’s two pillars, Activating Supply (focusing on infrastructure, investment, and reducing planning delays) and Supporting People (enhancing renter protections by reforming rent pressure zones and social housing), sound comprehensive, but why ditch annual targets? Rightly so,

critics point out it will make progress harder to track.

Opposition parties are not buying it. Sinn Féin’s Eoin Ó Broin slams the plan as “more of the same failed policy”, one written for big developers and investors rather than everyday families, with no radical safeguards for renters against evictions or rip-off rents. Social Democrats’ Cian O’Callaghan calls it the “same recipe for failure” ignoring the Housing Commission’s urgent pleas for bold change.

Even Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín TD brands it “devoid of ambition”,”pointing to the persistent lack of serviced and zoned land as a glaring oversight that’s left construction firms idle amid the crisis.

Charities and experts echo these concerns. Homeless group Depaul welcomes the second-hand buys but demands specific reduction targets and swift action. Alone worries about no national goals for older people’s

housing, despite an 83% surge in elderly renters. The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and Ibec urge “relentless implementation” to unlock zoned land.

Minister Browne defends it as “focused and targeted,” insisting on results over distracting targets. Yes, we have increased from 20,000 to 30,000 homes yearly, but why not aim higher? Success hinges on execution, not just €150 billion in projected costs. In a country where homelessness excludes rough sleepers and refugees, this plan must deliver tangible results, not just promises. If it falters, like its predecessors, we will pay with deeper inequality. Let us hope this time, Ireland Inc, as the Government envisions, can truly work together. If not, we’ll be reading about plan number five before long.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Kilkenny County Council’s Night Time Economy pilot scheme announces a number of safety initiatives to enhance Kilkenny City’s vibrant nightlife

Kilkenny County Council’s Night Time Economy pilot, in partnership with a number of stakeholders has announced various safety initiatives aimed at enhancing safety and fostering a sense of community in the city centre.

Mayor of Kilkenny Municipal District, Cllr. John Coonan said “As we approach the festive season, I am really pleased to see the partnership by all of the stakeholders involved to promote a safe and vibrant nightlife in our city. Safer nights out ensure we have more enjoyable nights out and I would encourage everyone to share the campaign messaging over the coming weeks and months.” These initiatives form part of a wider Safe & Sound campaign that is a key element of Kilkenny County Council’s Night Time Economy Strategy and is a direct response to public feedback to promote safety initiatives that will enhance the night time experience in Kilkenny City for visitors and residents alike.

“The Safe & Sound campaign is being rolled out nationally across the nine NTE pilot locations with the overall ambition of enhancing the safety of residents and visitors, and equipping staff that work in the Night Time Economy after 6pm with the tools to identify

vulnerable individuals and prevent harm. By announcing these three key initiatives and working with key stakeholders, we feel they will support local businesses and ensure that the public can have an even more enjoyable experience in our city.” said Conor Sweeney, Kilkenny

City’s Night Time Economy Advisor.

• “Safe & Sound” offers free 30-minute online training modules and policy templates to Night-Time Economy businesses and their workers in Kilkenny City. This program, announced by the Minister

for Culture, Communications, and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan T.D., is designed to make nightlife safer, more inclusive, and more enjoyable for everyone.

• In addition to the online resources being provided, An Garda Siochana, the Vintners Federation of Ireland and the Local Community Safety Partnership have collaborated with the NTE pilot to develop an online “Safe & Sound” communications campaign with a message from Inspector Alma Molloy promoting a culture of safety and respect in the city.

• The ‘Light Up, Light Up’ campaign, in collaboration with the Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, has supported a pilot initiative which will see 23 city centre businesses keeping their shopfront light on until 1 a.m. during from November to January. This initiative will ensure greater visibility on our streets for those who are exercising, walking home from a night out or waiting for public transport.

Note: The new “Safe and Sound” platform offers accessible, 30-minute express modules that are available 24/7 for 12 months across the nine Night-Time Economy Pilot cities and towns including Kilkenny. Participants can access these self-led, fully flexible courses at any time, allowing to start, pause, and continue as schedules permit. Downloadable resources and policy templates support the learning process, and certificates are sent automatically upon completion. Designed with the unique demands of the Night-Time Economy in mind, the training is suitable for a wide range of businesses and individuals, including pubs, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, theatres, cultural venues, festivals, gyms, taxi services, and more.

Training can be accessed by visiting https://www. nighttimeeconomy.com/ safe-and-sound-kilkenny

Photo: (L-R) Anthony Morrison - Vintners' Federation of Ireland, Maria O'Shea - Community Safety Coordinator, Kilkenny County Council, Inspector Alma Molloy - Kilkenny Garda Station, Conor SweeneyNight Time Economy Advisor Kilkenny City, Aisling Carey, LEO Kilkenny

The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to present our ‘2025 Christmas short story series’. We invited five Kilkenny based writers to submit a short story or poems each week, which we hope you will enjoy. This is the Observers fifth year promoting creative writing in the community. We welcome Dr Joseph Kearney to week one

BY DR JOSEPH KEARNEY

I’ll bet that there is an entire generation who have never heard the distinctive rumbling sound of coins dropping into the guts of a public payphone when button A has been pressed. The closest comparable sound I can conjure is that of a win on the penny cascades in Tramore amusements and even saying that I am dating myself.

On a Christmas afternoon in 1971, making my way along London’s Cricklewood Broadway, I carried so many coins in my pocket, I was a veritable walking jingle bell. In an age before Skype, FaceTime and WhatsApp, updates from home arrived in blue Basildon Bond envelopes. Most people in our town bought their writing supplies from one source, Kerwick’s newsagents at the bottom of Green Street in Callan, and accordingly letters from home seemed to carry a somewhat standard appearance.

Slow dance

On one particular Saturday night, under the dimmed lights of the Parochial Hall, I slow-danced to The Seeker’s The Carnival is Over. In my inside pocket I held a one way ticket to London and in my arms I held Penny, my childhood sweetheart. Outside the dancehall in a shady corner of Chapel Lane our bicycles leaned into each other in an intimate tangle of pedals, spokes and handlebars. Inside the hall we’d just danced the last waltz but in a much more chaste embrace. We held on tightly even through the fading notes of the National Anthem. It was a night neither of us wished to end.

Penny was a great one for extended goodbyes. We finally parted company and wheeled our bicycles in opposite directions. Every few yards I’d stop to look back and there she’d be standing in a pool of streetlight outside the Big Chapel waving like she was being pestered by a swarm of wasps. The plan was to write regularly and mostly we did. Her Basildon Bond epistles covered local events, births, deaths and in somewhat greater detail, marriages. In return, I passed on all the news from the big smoke. The flat I was sharing, the craic and the music I’d discovered, Jimi Hendrix, Taste, Van Morrison. Penny wrote how she was still attending and enjoying the Parochial Hall dances. She was a girl who was both loyal and faithful, a girl reluctant to say

A wrong number and I knew I’d lost my Penny

goodbye even to the ageing show band stars. Our musical tastes seemed to be diverging but in the larger scheme of

things that hardly mattered. We still wrote and sealed our envelopes with loving kisses.

Dyslexia

I have a small confession to make, I’m not great with numbers, some sort of dyslexia. Phone numbers, car registrations, passwords are all a bit of a tangle to me. But back then I tended to cover up my inadequacy. I was good at my deceit, few suspected even though I was then working in a bank!

1971 saw the introduction of currency decimalisation in Great Britain and Ireland. For me it was a nightmare. Still employed by the bank. I juggled new coinage, avoided mental arithmetic and just hoped no-one was short changing me or asking me too many questions.

Because I was not returning home for Christmas, it was Penny’s idea that we arrange a phone call on the day itself. The dilemma was that neither one of us had a phone. Not to be beaten, Penny jotted down the number of the public phone box on Green Street and sent me the details together with a pre-appointed time for our long distance call. 2 o’clock she wrote, in time for her to get back for the family dinner. I was looking forward to the chat. Over time I’d noticed that her missives were becoming somewhat shorter and less frequent, but the call would surely put all that to

right. The phone box on Cricklewood Broadway was located opposite the Galtymore Ballroom, just up from the Crown public house.

Memory

I was scrupulous in collecting change for the call. At that time both old and new currency remained in circulation. I collected one and two shilling pieces, 5p and 10p coins as well as the odd six-penny bit. I accumulated a pocketful of appropriate coinage. The only penny needed would be the one on the other end of the phone line.

In a somewhat reckless test of our love I believed I could commit the Green Street phone number to memory. On that Christmas afternoon, I opened the door to the red phone box.

Regrettably, its proximity to the two social establishments caused it to be mistakenly used as another type of public facility. The door refused to close properly but perhaps that was a blessing under the circumstances.

I stacked my coins. I fed them into the top slot, lifted the receiver and listened for a dial tone. I checked my watch, 2 o’clock on the dot. I took my time and dialled each digit with exact care and waited in that no-mans-land of white noise for the phone to ring in that phone box at the top of Green Street. For a couple of heartbeats nothing happened and then suddenly it connected, a miracle, from ondon all the way across the Irish Sea it clearly rang…and rang…and rang… and rang. Very puzzled, I hung up and tried again. Still nothing. Just as I was about to push button B and get my money back there was a distant but sharp “Hello”. I pushed button A. The coins cascaded. We were connected. My “Hello Penny, Happy Christmas,” was answered by a suspicious male voice. I’d dialled the wrong number. I’d lost the tanners, the shillings, the 10p pieces, but worse of all in my heart of hearts I knew I’d lost my Penny.

Joseph Kearney is originally a Callan native and a regular voice on RTÉ’s Sunday Miscellany where he features in their latest anthology. He is a multi-award winning documentary maker and holds a PhD in creative writing from UCD.

SWALK

The dilemma was that neither one of us had a phone. Penny jotted down the number of the public phone box on Green Street and sent me the details. (art credit Eddie Dollard)

Most people in our town bought their writing supplies from one source, Kerwick’s newsagents at the bottom of Green Street in Callan

Under the dimmed lights of the Parochial Hall, I slow-danced to The Seeker’s ‘The Carnival is Over’

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Bocherrini, Charles Stanford and Troy Parrot

So, where were you when Troy Parrot put the ball in Hungary’s net? Where were you when he scored that marvellous, miraculous almost, goal in the Puskas Arena on that Sunday night? In the pub, I presume. Eyes glued to the telly, blood pressure soaring, hoping, hoping, hoping against all odds for a miracle.

And it came. And the pub erupted. Everyone on their feet, roaring, cheering, glasses clinking, folks hugging, as one and all had one, if not two, or three more drinks for the road. The victorious road. The road to the World Cup. Hopefully. And there’s no shortage of hope now. No shortage of belief. Bring ‘em on – the greats, the giants of soccer – we may not beat them but by God we’ll give them a rattle. A hell of a rattle.

Then again you may not have been in the pub as

you’re a pioneer and I commend your teetotalism.

Perhaps you were sitting calmly, sedately, at home on the couch, looking glumly at the telly, resigned to what looked like a frustrating, and heart-breaking draw, until that marvellous, miraculous goal which, I sincerely hope, had you lepping off that couch, hands waving gloriously, victoriously in the air. Scaring the bejaysus out of the dog or the wife quietly perusing the Sunday papers as she has no interest whatsoever in soccer..

And where was I when Troy Parrot put the ball in Hungary’s net? Where was I when he scored that magnificent, glorious goal? Well, I was not in the pub. And I was not slumped on the couch. Though in hindsight I wish I had been sipping a pint in some hostelry or other or sprawled on the couch. In fact I was sitting silently and

attentively (as one should) with my wife and two good friends at a classical concert in the Parade Tower in the grounds of Kilkenny Castle. While Troy Parrot and his team mates were creating Irish soccer history – I was sitting still, and silent, listening reverentially to the Vanbrugh Quartet & Friends. Listening to Luigi Boccherini’s String Quartet in E major G 402, to be precise. Oh, and Charles Stanford’s String Quintet No. 1 in F major Op. 85 if you must know. Did I enjoy the concert? I did until the interval when the lady beside us showed us her phone: Hungary 2 –Ireland 3. “Is that a joke,” I asked. “Final score’,” she said. That’s when I bolted from my seat, cursing Boccherini and Stanford and my friends who lured me to the concert. They didn’t realise, of course, no more than I, that the match was on and

would clash with Luigi and Co. I made a bee-line for the nearest pub – the Left Bank

“I was not in the pub. And I was not slumped on the couch...

as it happened. One half of the choc-a-bloc bar seemed totally oblivious to what had just happened while the other half, the half with the TV sets, were still euphoric and staring hypnotically at the replays of Troy Parrot’s hat trick. As, of course, did I, delighted to get a glimpse of what Ken Early in Monday’s Irish Times wrote: “The last 15 minutes of this game are the most astonishing quarter-hour in Irish football history…. and given us our most exciting World Cup campaign in more than 20 years.”

And there was I, a dedicated soccer fan who revelled in our victory over fancied Portugal on the Thursday night, sitting still, and silent, in the Parade Tower totally oblivious to it all.

Back in the Left Bank, the memories came flooding back of Italia ’90 – Sheedy’s goal against England (for

a 1-1 draw); Quinn’s goal against the Netherlands (another 1-1 draw); Packie Bonner’s marvellous save, and in the same match, David O’Leary’s glorious penalty-shoot-out goal against Romania. A miracle really as to how we got to the quarter finals of the World Cup without winning a game!

As for the quarter final itself against Italy, I won’t mention Schillaci.

And I remembered Ray Houghton’s brilliant goal against Italy in 1994 (Italy 1-1Ireland), and Robbie Keane’s late goal (not unlike Troy Parrot’s) against Germany in 2002 in time added on (Germany 1 – I Ireland)

In the meantime whatever about Sheedy, Quinn, Bonner, O’Leary, Houghton, Keane and Troy - I don’t ever want to hear the name Boccherini again.

Sinn Fein TD for Carlow - Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome Drennan, hosts emergency cross party briefing on the risks for posed by Mercosur trade deal in Leinster House

BY NATASHA NEWSOME DRENNAN TD

Deputy Newsome Drennan said;

“Sinn Fein has been consistent in its opposition to the Mercosur trade deal because it is a bad deal for Irish farmers and will put the future of Irish family farms at risk. I have grown increasingly concerns at the lack of awareness of the harm that this trade deals poses for rural Ireland.

“I have organised this briefing so that Oireachtas members and particularly government members can hear from the concerns that our farming community have and how this deal will impact their livelihoods.

‘’Representatives from the IFA, ICSA and INHFA laid out clearly that Mercosur in its current form will devastate rural Ireland and our family farms.

“This deal will see 99,000 tonnes of South American beef and 180,000 tonnes of poultry imported into the EU. We all

know the issues regarding animal welfare standards and environmental standards in South America and how they conflict with the standards Irish farmers must adhere to.

‘’The use of banned growth hormones is rampant across Mercosur states, it should be made clear to the public these meats are more carcinogenic and poses a clear health risk.

“This is not a fair playing field and will result in the loss of jobs in the Irish and EU Agriculture sector. The so-called handbrake to protect Agri-sector if the market is distorted as a result of this deal, does not go far

enough to protect the farming community.

“It is expected that there will be at least one vote on the Mercosur deal before Christmas and we are calling on the Irish government to listen to our farmers tomorrow and oppose this deal at the EU council meeting.

‘’Considering the vital role of agriculture across Carlow and Kilkenny, it was disappointing to see none of the other TD’s from Carlow or Kilkenny attended this briefing.

“Government must stand by Irish farmers, they must work with other likeminded EU states to oppose this deal.”

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Looking after the only home we have: Planet Earth

I was going to write about homeless, when it occurred to me that we could all be homeless if we don’t look after our one true home…. Mother Earth. This is where everything we hold precious has ever happened. All our ancestors, achievements, events in history, cultures…. It’s all happened here, (ref:YouTube: Carl Sagan. Pale Blue Dot) on our little ball of wonder and beauty that is revolving in space. As a child, I saw the very first photo of The Earth from outer space… it blew my mind. My generation was the first to see such an emotional image. Since then, we cannot deny that EVERYTHING is connected and ALL IS ONE. Like you, I’m just an ordinary planetary citizen. I don’t fully understand the complexities of global warming, but I know that we borrow the world from future generations… What kind of world will

they inherit? More natural disasters, droughts, floods etc., or a place where humanity has learned to live in harmony with Nature. It’s up to all of us. Climate change is not in the future, many nations are really suffering right now and here in Ireland, we are reasonably OK at the moment.

The U.N. Climate Change Conference, COP30, is on in Brazil, attended by scientists, environmentalists, activists and politicians (and big money interests) all trying to agree (or not) on how to limit rising temperatures. International consensus is vital but so is grass roots activism and personal responsibility for our own planetary footprint. We are at a big crossroads… can we, all of us, tip the balance in the right direction or not? Or are we going to be like lemmings and run over the cliff?

Mother Earth with all her finely balanced eco systems, oceans and forests sustains us all at the moment but everyone’s reliance on fossil fuels has contributed to global warming, natural disasters, extreme weather issues, rising sea levels and biodiversity loss. So, what next? It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such huge challenges. Can we as individuals and communities do anything? Yes! We can all really look at what we eat, how we travel and the products we buy. Much of the Amazon rainforest is being felled to become cattle ranches, so our diets play a major part in climate change. Reducing our meat and dairy consumption would be a good start. Being vegetarian a few times a week is a good idea. I check where food comes from and if possible, I choose local produce to reduce its airmiles. Food security is also an issue.

Reduce food waste, cook bulk meals and compost peelings.

Regarding energy, I turn off lights and appliances when not in use. If it’s not too cold, I put on an extra layer to save on the heating. I only use the washing machine for a full load and

“On this fragile Earth, every choice echoes forever

try to limit my car journeys. As flying has a heavy environmental cost, I only fly when necessary to see family and if I need to go to Dublin, I take the train. I recycle, repair and buy all my clothes in charity shops (apart from underwear and shoes!) Please Google: Clothes mountains in the Atacama Desert and you will see why!

It may be COP 30 but we all need to COP on. If billions of people, make small little actions it all adds up. Are your parcels from Temu and Amazon essential? Why hop in the car to go half a kilometre? Why have a wedding abroad or a long weekend in Dubai?

Really!?

I am neither a climate scientist…nor stupid and cannot deny the changes witnessed in my lifetime. The species extinctions, the weather, fewer butterflies and bees, hardly a salmon in the River Nore, dwindling

numbers of sparrows…. The list goes on. I love Nature and for my part, have planted countless trees and I ban weedkillers in my garden.

The planet will survive… will humanity? The governments of the world joined forces for crisis action during the pandemic…so it can be done. Where there is a will, there’s a way. (Unless profits are at stake!)

We can all do our bit, plus vote for politicians who will step up to this global climate emergency and listen to Elvis Presley: “A Little Less Conversation, A Little More Action” Change begins with awareness and then must be acted upon to make it effective. We’re all in this together and collectively we can consciously create change.

www.judithashton.com

www.beprepared.ie

Green Flag for Kilkenny Countryside Park!

Kilkenny County Council were delighted to be awarded the Green Flag for the Kilkenny Countryside Park at Dunmore at an awards ceremony, launched by Mr. Jerry Buttimer T.D., Minister of State for Community Development, Charities and Rural Transport, in Maynooth University Campus in County Kildare, on Wednesday the 12th of November. The international Green Flag Award, administered by An Taisce in Ireland, is the international quality benchmark for the public green space sector, now operating in 30 countries around the world. The Green Flag Awards recognise and encourage the provision of good quality parks and green spaces that are managed in environmentally sustainable ways.

The Kilkenny Countryside Park, which opened in December 2023, occupies an area of 24 acres and is located just 5km north of Kilkenny City centre. The park offers visitors three themed walking and running trails along with a myriad of other attractions including two ball walls, a bespoke viewing area, play and exercise equipment, and novel relaxing spaces

that include hammocks, and loungers.

The park is also home to Kilkenny’s first dedicated dog-friendly enclosure.

An extensive planting and land management plan was also put in place to protect, promote and encourage biodiversity across the site, and receiving the Green Flag status demonstrates that this plan is working.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, stated at the ceremony that “This achievement reflects the hard work and dedication of the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council as this award acknowledges excellence in the management of our green spaces. I think this award is even more remarkable when one considers that the Countryside Park was, up until relatively recent years, the site of the old municipal landfill for the City and County.” Cllr. Cavanagh continued, “Achieving an international Green Flag Award for this park will elevate the appeal of our City and County, contributing to the 'Outdoor Kilkenny' brand and solidifying Kilkenny's status as a premier outdoor tourism destination.”

Frank Stafford, Senior

Engineer, Capital Delivery Office and Parks Department, added “It is fantastic to see how far we have come in the transformation of this site, turning what was once considered a negative on the landscape into a sanctuary that aims to restore and protect our natural environment, while also providing a top class outdoor recreational space for the public. Achieving the Green Flag is another milestone in the park’s story and it would not have been possible without the continued support of our elected members and the local community, right from its inception over 5 years ago to what we have today. I would also like to acknowledge the Parks Team, who manage the day-to-day maintenance of the park, for their dedication to making this an incredibly special place.” Mr. Stafford added, “Since its opening, the park was gone from strength to strength and now hosts the Junior Park Run every Sunday morning while also proving extremely popular with dog owners and young families, it really has something for everyone and I would encourage everyone to visit this wonderful free amenity.”

Terri Morrissey, Chairperson An Taisce, Thomas Moore, KCC, Cllr. Mary Hilda Cavanagh, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Frank Stafford, KCC, Cathy Baxter An Taisce

Bennettsbridge Christmas art fest

As the festive season approaches, the Bennettsbridge Art Group is once again preparing to bring colour, craft, and community spirit to the village with their muchanticipated Christmas Art Fest. The event, scheduled for Sunday, 30th November, will take place in the Community Hall, transforming it into a lively hub of creativity and Christmas cheer. Now in its third year, the Christmas Art Fest has quickly become a cherished highlight of the local holiday calendar, drawing visitors from near and far to browse, chat, and discover thoughtful handmade gifts. From the moment the doors open after Mass, the hall will be filled with an impressive range of handcrafted items that reflect both the artistry and dedication of the Bennettsbridge Art Group’s members. Those seeking special, one-of-a-kind Christmas presents will be spoiled for choice. Among the offerings will be handmade Christmas cards, each one individually designed and crafted with care. Whether you prefer classic festive imagery, modern minimalist prints, or whimsical winter scenes, the selection promises something for every taste. Visitors will also find unique Christmas tree decorations, lovingly created from a variety of materials and techniques. These ornaments make perfect annual keepsakes—

small but meaningful mementos that add personal warmth to any Christmas tree. Many attendees return year after year specifically to expand their collection of these beautifully crafted decorations.

For those who appreciate the comfort and tradition of textile crafts, the fair will feature an array of hand-knitted items, ideal for the winter season.

From cosy scarves and hats to charming knitted figures, these pieces showcase a blend of craftsmanship and creativity that is impossible to match with store-bought goods. Several members of the group have also prepared wall hangings with Christmas themes, offering visitors the chance to bring a festive artistic touch into their homes. These hangings range from elegant fabric compositions to mixed-media designs combining paint, textile, and decorative detail.

Art lovers will be delighted to know that the fair will also include original paintings and high-quality prints. The Bennettsbridge Art Group spans a range of artistic styles— realism, abstract, landscape, and more—and the Christmas Art Fest offers a rare opportunity to see, appreciate, and purchase their work all in one place.

Sunflowers for Kilkenny

BY MARIA DOLLARD

Green Party Cllr Maria Dollard has renewed her call for Sunflower Parking spaces to be provided in Kilkenny. In June 2022, Cllr Dollard had a motion unanimously passed by Kilkenny County Council to identify and install Sunflower Parking Spaces in Kilkenny. Sunflower parking spaces are an alternative to parking spaces that cater only for certain groups in need of accessible parking similar to Age Friendly Parking and Autism Friendly Parking. They are identified by a Sunflower Design and are designed to be used by people who need accessible parking but who do not have a Blue Badge. Their use is dependent on the honest need at the time of the user.

“As a family carer and a mother of an autistic daughter, I have many years of experience and

completely understand the many ways in which people are excluded from access to work or community

services and facilities for a whole variety of reasons. At times when my daughter is experiencing high levels of stress an autism friendly space is very welcome but I know that autism is not the only condition that requires this concession. The need for accessible parking can be transient or permanent and hugely impacts on the quality of life of people in this

People with learning impairments, sensory processing challenges, or undergoing cancer treatments can experience difficulties with finding suitable parking spaces. I am asking people who think we should have these spaces to email cllrmaria. dollard@kilkennycoco.ie and tell me where they are

Kilkenny Municipal District have set aside their entire December monthly meeting to address the many issues raised by Councillors under the new parking

Whether you are looking for a striking centrepiece for a room or a smaller print to gift to a friend, the selection is sure to inspire. Behind the scenes, the group has been busy preparing for months. Each member has worked diligently to plan their table layout, perfect their creations, and ensure that the event maintains the warm and welcoming atmosphere for which it has become known. The Art Fest is not simply a market—it is an expression of community, cooperation, and shared passion for the arts. Many visitors comment that the friendly conversations, creative displays, and festive spirit make the event as enjoyable as the shopping itself.

While the announcement refers to the event as the 2025 Christmas Art Fest, the group also warmly welcomes everyone to their 2024 celebration, continuing the tradition they began three years ago. No matter which way you mark the calendar year, the date remains the same: Sunday, 30th November, from after Mass until 5 p.m. Everyone is invited—locals, newcomers, passers-by, and families looking for an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon. If you are hoping to solve some of your Christmas gift needs, support local artists, or simply spend an hour or two browsing in a festive and friendly setting, the Bennettsbridge Art Group’s Christmas Art Fest is the perfect place to be. The group looks forward to meeting you, sharing their work, and celebrating the beginning of the holiday season together. All welcome!

Health & Beauty

Walk this way: Japan’s viral fitness hack

FITNESS

Japanese interval walking is the latest viral fitness trend - and it’s surprisingly simple. The idea is to alternate between three minutes of brisk walking and three minutes of very slow walking, repeating this for about half an hour.

In practice, that means striding out as if you’re rushing somewhere, then easing right down to a gentle potter. The contrast feels a bit odd at first, but that’s exactly what makes it effective.

Researchers say this stop–start rhythm acts like a softer form of HIIT, giving your body a bigger training boost than a steady stroll.

Studies from Japan have shown impressive results, including improved fitness, stronger joints and even better blood pressure. It’s especially popular with people who find running too hard on their knees, or those getting back into exercise in midlife. All you need is a timer, comfortable shoes and a route you enjoy.

Digital detox tricks

HEALTH

Living in our always-on, screenfilled world can really take a toll on us, from tired eyes to feeling totally drained mentally. But we don’t need to ditch our devices completely, just learning a few smarter habits can help us feel much better. To give your eyes a break, try the “20-20-20 rule”: every 20 minutes, just glance 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This little pause can make a big difference in preventing eye strain.

The truth about young people’s sexual health

Want to focus better and chill out more? Use app tim -

ers to stop endless scrolling and switch off notifications that aren’t urgent. Designate some “phone-free zones” – like during meals or before bed – for real conversations and a good night’s sleep. Oh, and don’t forget the simple stuff like tweaking screen brightness and bumping up the font size to make things more comfortable. Ultimately, it’s all about having a healthier relationship with our tech. Even a small “digital detox” – like a walk without your phone – can boost your attention, ease anxiety and leave you feeling refreshed.

Winter eye rescue

BEAUTY

Cold air, central heating and long hours in front of screens can leave eyes looking tired and puffy. A dedicated winter eye treatment helps rejuvenate this delicate area. Start with a gentle cleanse, then apply a cooling eye serum or gel using your ring finger to avoid tugging the skin. For an extra boost, place chilled jade rollers or specially designed eye massagers over

the under-eye area for a few minutes to reduce puffiness and dark circles. Lightly pat in a nourishing eye cream to lock in hydration. Doing this morning and evening supports elasticity, smooths fine lines, and refreshes tired-looking eyes. Pair with regular breaks from screens and plenty of sleep to maintain results. With consistent care, your eyes can stay bright, hydrated, and youthful throughout the harsh winter months.

HEALTH

A new HSE survey has shed important light on the sexual health habits, concerns and knowledge of young adults in Ireland. The study, involving over 1,100 people aged 18-30, is generally positive - but did highlight gaps that need attention.

One of the most positive trends is the continued decline in teenage pregnancy rates over the past two decades, supported by better sexual education and improved ac-

BEAUTY

If you love getting gel nails, there’s an important new rule you should know about. A chemical called trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide (or TPO for short) has now been banned from all nail products made or sold in the EU, including Ireland. The ban came into effect on September 1 and means that no salon, supplier or brand is allowed to make, sell, trade or even give away products containing TPO.

Simply put, salons are no longer allowed to use any gel polish that contains this ingredient - even if they bought it before the ban.

TPO was commonly used in gel polishes because it helps the product harden under UV

cess to contraception. STI rates also fell by 11 per cent in 2024, though young women aged 20-24 remain disproportionately affected.

Consent and safety are top of mind for young people, with clear communication and reducing STI risk ranking as their highest priorities.

Most respondents are sexually active, yet more than threequarters reported having had condomless sex at some point.

The most common reasons included not having a condom available, reduced pleasure or

being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Despite strong awareness of pregnancy prevention, misconceptions persist - particularly around the belief that methods like the pill, emergency contraception or cycle-tracking can prevent STIs. Over half of the respondents have never had an STI test, with many citing stress, cost concerns and worries about privacy, even though HSE home testing kits are free, confidential and delivered in plain packaging.

The survey also highlights gender differences: women tend to carry more responsibility for pregnancy prevention, are more knowledgeable about contraception, yet often underestimate their own STI risk compared to men.

Overall, the findings show that while Ireland’s young people value safer sex and have strong awareness in many areas, more open communication, accessible services and myth-busting remain essential to improving sexual wellbeing nationwide.

or LED lamps. It makes the gel cure properly and keeps colours stable.

However, EU experts have raised concerns about the safety of TPO after studies showed it may cause long-term fertility problems in animals. As a precaution, it has now been removed from the market.

What should you look out for?

You don’t need to check every ingredient yourself, but it’s a good idea to ask your salon if their gel products are TPOfree. Reputable salons will already be aware of the ban and should have removed any affected products. Many brands have reformulated their gels or switched to safer alternatives.

If you buy your own gel products for at-home use, check

the ingredient list and avoid anything containing TPO. When in doubt, ask your supplier or choose well-known brands that follow EU safety

Freepik

Freepik

Freepik

Amanda Dalbjörn, unsplash

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

It was Carmel’s father, Pat Maher, who built the houses on the Callan Green in 1914-at the behest of the Town Commissioners. He used limestone from Pattie Phelan’s quarry in Physicianstown, all of which had to be carried to Callan in horses and carts supplied by Paddy Bergin of West Street, Jim O’ Brien of the Cottages, and Paddy Byrne of Mill Street.

The new houses put the kybosh on local hurlers who enjoyed honing their skills on the Green. But they persisted, and tenants complained of hurling balls landing in their backyards and back bedrooms. Glasscutters in the town made a fortune supplying new panes every second day to replace broken ones.

To alleviate the situation, the hurlers agreed to move their goalposts further away from the houses, but then the balls started flying through the Academy windows. Eventually, the hurlers had to move again, bringing them close to Cahill’s meadow.

This proved a real challenge to them, as they kept losing balls in the meadow. They were squeezed between glass on one side of the Green and long grass on the other, making a carefree game of hurling rather difficult on what used to be one of the best pitches in Ireland.

Patrick Cody’s Tannery in West Street had been a hive of industry, giving a lot of employment. In 1912, Pilsworths acquired the building and turned it into a corn store that was managed for a while by Mr. Cody. It dealt in flour, wheaten meal, Indian meal, cattle foodstuffs, cotton cake and oil cake.

Farmers brought their corn to Pilsworths and it was transported to Grennan Mills in Thomastown by horse and car. Four horses and three car men were available to do the runs. For night time travel, the horse drawn cars had lamps lit by candles. Lamps attached to hearses and holiday carriages were decorated with fanciful designs and motifs.

The Callan Carmen also conveyed beer, flour, and wholemeal to Kilkenny Station, Thomastown, and Carrick-on-Suir. There were three livery and posting establishments in the town operat-

Carmel Kealy remembers…

Carmel Kealy’s recollections of life in early 20th century Callan provide a fascinating insight for people of present and future generations. Part one can be read on the Observer website

ing a variety of carriages and cover cars. There were Long Cars, Side Cars, and beautifully designed hearses.

An adequate supply of horses was always available to keep this vital service operational. Horse-drawn transport was hired out to farmers who could ill afford to own the two horses required to pull a plough or to assist in the cutting of corn or hay.

Carmel recalled the big names in the Callan transport business, and the local travelling routine: “The Gormans, the Walshes-Jenny Hourigan was a Walsh- the Kealys and the Casses. Kealy’s Long Car, which could carry up to a dozen passengers-drove people to picnics and other outings.

“One of the scenic places I remember driving to was Ballyknocken lodge on the slopes of Slievenamon. I just loved its natural waterfall, rustic bridges and flowering shrubs.

“Kealy’s ran a Day Car to Kilkenny. Officially, it was the 9 o’ clock car, but the driver was a very obliging man and would wait for a customer. People would ask: When is the 9 o’ clock car going, Johnnie? -It seldom left at 9 o’ clock. The gentry hired cars regularly.

“The Kealy account books show orders from Lord Clifton, Lord Desert, Major Gregory, the Poes of Harleypark, Major Poe of Graigue House, Samuel Lane of Ship house, Major Grant, and so on. The Augustinian friars travelled far and wide doing the Quest, and the Long Car took the Friary choir on many a well-deserved outing to historic sites where they had their picnics.

“The hearse was decorated with black plumes on each corner, though if an unmarried female or a child had died, white plumes were used. At that time, people were nursed and waked at home. The community was close knit and there was great solidarity. People looked out for each other.”

Peter Roughan had his own recollection of horse-drawn transport: “I can still picture those drives from Callan in Kealy’s and Gorman’s waggonettes, with such great old characters as Danny Molloy, Garrett Freaney, Paddy Moore and ‘Deaf’ Reilly in the driver’s box. God be good to them all.

“I remember Deaf’s mare always getting dry at the first

pub on the road. She was never able to manage without a bucket of water- according to Reilly-especially at Catherine Whelan’s of Modeshill. And what about the speed then? -Five and a half hours to go to Fethard, three to come back-and the pubs were shut at ten!”

Coachmen worked tirelessly in the livery stables, grooming the horses, polishing the harnesses and looking after the cushions. Oil covers were given to passengers to protect them from the wind and rain.

1912 also witnessed the advent of electric light in Callan. Carmel explained: “At that time there was a light at the Cross, and another at Molloy’s corner: A beam shone across the river, up our field… there was a pole there. It came from Gregory’s. Before that I remember a man who went around with a ladder and an oil can to fill the streetlamps.”

The town’s 27 pubs ensured that nobody had too far to walk to have a jar. And Callan had its own hospital in the workhouse building up until

1922, which attracted business to the town.

Carmel sheds an interesting light on the workhouse in its final years. She found the building itself attractive from the outside, its facade concealing a terrible past. To enter the workhouse, she recalled, you had to get past Bob Wall, a stern-faced man who had a lodge “right out on the street”. There was no admittance to the building after 4 pm for “God or man.”When Carmel went to visit her sister, who had scarlet fever, at the workhouse, she was denied admission and her parcel bearing a gift was delivered to the patient. Bob Wall had strict orders to refuse entry once the clock struck four.

Carmel paints a clear picture of the Workhouse routine: “It was a well-run establishment, more or less, in the years leading up to its closure. There was the boardroom, the Master’s House, an operating theatre, a chapel, and a school. There were separate quarters for men and women.

“Girls who had babies had to stay in the house until their

children were at least two years old. The young mothers had to clean and cook, scrubbing floors, washing, peeling spuds and doing laundry seven days and nights a week. But at least they had a roof over their heads.

“The Workhouse had a water tower and I used to see an old man, Tierney I think his name was, driving a horse round in a circle to pump the water. He also drove a horse drawn ambulance to and from the hospital.”

Carmel knew three of the nuns at the Workhouse, Sister Baptist Kerwick, Mother Leo (who liked to wear dark glasses and was always in good humour) and her own favourite, Sister Claire. When the workhouse closed in 1922, another use was found for this relic of the bad old days: Once occupying Free State troops had moved out of the building, some enterprising locals grew mushrooms in it for sale at the Market House and in the groceries.

(To be continued)

The Kings River in Callan 1916

Picture: The Old Post office Green Street Callan. Pictured are: in doorway: Mrs. Paddle, (postmistress), Mrs. Alice McLean (Telegraphist). At window: Willie Walsh, Bill Russell, Jim Cahill, In archway: Frank Moore

Pollards of the Square in Callan 1900s

Ó hArgáin reaction to Government housing plantoo little, too late

Ó hArgáin says Housing plan offers nothing new for Kilkenny

· Too little and too late

· No ambition and no new vision

Labour’s Councillor Seán Ó hArgáin in Kilkenny City said the Government’s newly published housing plan offers little comfort to renters, young people or families in Kilkenny who are already struggling to keep a secure roof over their heads. Speaking following today’s publication of the plan, Cllr Ó hArgáin said it is clear that the Government is fresh out of ideas, and that its approach remains unchanged despite record levels of housing stress.

Cllr Ó hArgáin said:

“Families in Kilkenny are living through the consequences of years of Government failure. This new housing plan is simply more of the same. It is not ambitious enough. There is no change in the vision or the overall approach. Instead of stepping up with a bold plan to increase supply and tackle soaring costs, Government has doubled down on policies that have failed for years.

“The first thing people in Kilkenny will see is that this plan offers too little, too late. Families are struggling in every part of the country because they cannot secure a home they can afford. Renters are being pushed deeper into insecurity with no sign of relief. Young people who want to own their own home are being told to wait, again, while prices continue to

climb. This new plan changes none of that. It sets out broad figures but strips away annual private-sector targets. When you remove measurement, you remove accountability.

Government has taken away its own tools to track delivery, until it surprisingly reintroduces them whenever it suits.

“The section on affordable ownership is particularly disappointing. It offers nothing new. Instead of a plan to bring down prices, the Government has wrapped its existing schemes into what it calls a Starter Homes Programme. That is a branding exercise, not a housing solution. Demand is not the issue. Supply is. Without a major increase in State-built affordable homes, families in Kilkenny will remain locked out of home ownership.

The Government’s plan proposes an expanded role for the Land Development Agency, but the extra funding is limited and there is still no clarity about the new powers it will receive. Overall, the plan does not meet the scale of the housing crisis. What is truly needed is a major expansion of State-led construction of social and affordable homes, rather than continued reliance on developers whose model has already proven inadequate. The removal of annual delivery targets is particularly troubling, as it weakens accountability at a time when ambition should be increasing. Families in Kilkenny cannot face more missed goals. A real change in direction is required, with a strong State building programme, better renter protections and genuine affordability.

Honouring Declan’s 35 years’ service

Last weekend, Bishop Freeman Schoolhouse was the scene of a heartwarming surprise as the Caherleske Coolagh Group Water Scheme celebrated one of its longest-serving and most dedicated members. Declan O’Donoghue, who is stepping down as Treasurer after an extraordinary 35 years, was honoured for his tireless service to the Scheme.

A native of Wexford, Declan lives in Ballyhall, Callan, with his wife Kathleen and their family. Since succeeding Paddy Sweeney as Treasurer, he has kept the books with meticulous care, organised grant applications, and been a crucial presence in maintaining the water supply network during breakdowns. His contribution has been both practical and enduring, leaving a legacy of commitment and professionalism.

The Caherleske Coolagh GWS, established in 1961, supplies clean, high-quality water to 155 homes and farms across the parishes of Callan, Windgap, and Dunamaggin. Designed by Colonel Robin Gabbett, who remained Secretary for a record 38 years, the Scheme has long relied on the dedication of individuals like

Declan to keep it running smoothly.

Chairman Billy Heffernan praised Declan’s honesty, integrity, and unwavering dedication, presenting him with a beautifully engraved Kilkenny Crystal piece featuring both reservoirs and their surroundings. Martin Campion of Campion Pumps and Water Services also paid tribute, highlighting Declan’s invaluable contribution to the Scheme.

Former Chairman John O’Keeffe fondly recalled countless Sundays spent trawling the countryside for leaks before meters were installed, describing working with Declan as a pleasure.

Declan, visibly moved, thanked everyone for their support, reflecting on the many changes he had witnessed over the decades and expressing hope for the Scheme’s continued strength. He was joined by family, friends, the Caherleske Coolagh Committee, and members of the Coolagh Pattern Club, who generously provided refreshments, making the celebration a fitting tribute to a man whose dedication has been the backbone of the community water supply for more than three decades.

Ireland’s oldest brass band celebrates centuries of music

Graiguenamanagh’s historic Brass Band has celebrated its centuries-long legacy with a jam-packed weekend of music and memories.

Proudly established in 1760, the oldest Brass Band in Ireland performed to more than 300 people in Abbey Hall on October 18th and 19th. The event featured an exhibition of historic music books, photographs, uniforms and memorabilia, charting the band’s journey across generations.

Band members of all ages - from 16 to 91introduced and performed their chosen pieces, each sharing the personal stories and memories behind their selections. After afternoon tea, the audience was treated to performances by local singers, choirs, and visiting bands, with plenty of opportunities for attendees to join in the dancing and celebration.

The event opened with the reading of a 1917 letter from the brass band to its patrons, seeking support for running costs, a moving reminder of the enduring need for community backing.

The weekend raised muchneeded funds to support urgent repairs to the band’s parish-owned band room, which is plagued with damp, mould, unreliable electrics,

and asbestos in the roof. Despite the challenges, the Graiguenamanagh Brass Band continues to embody a living tradition, a bridge between past and present, ensuring that music and camaraderie continue to resonate for generations to come.

A candle was lit to honour all members who have gone before, followed by the band’s performance of Abide With Me, accompanied by local singer Christy Bolger. Among the artefacts displayed was

a Leinster flag predating the Irish tricolour, a helicon (large brass instrument) dating from the late 1700s to early 1800s, and Majorette memorabilia from the 1970s. In an unexpected surprise, a man from Wexford arrived with a recently discovered booklet chronicling the band’s membership since 1760, authored by Piery Fenlon, the bandmaster from1978 to 1996.

The Saturday programme was compered by retired KCLR presenter Sue Nunn,

while celebrity chef and broadcaster Edward Hayden hosted Sunday’s proceedings. The event, part-funded by kilkenny county council, was supported by age friendly officer Alison Mcgrath. Honouring Lifelong Members

The celebrations included heartfelt tributes to some of the band’s longest-serving members, including: Noel Coady (91) – Honoured for 80 years of service, Noel joined the band at just 11. He was presented with a

commemorative painting of Duiske Abbey by local Jamie Dunne and a Cushendale Woollen Mills scarf embroidered with the band logo. His song choice: The Villager.

Willie Flood (80) –Celebrated 70 years of service. Willie shared stories of the band performing for presidents, trips to France and Dublin parades, and the time members famously buried music they were “sick of playing.” His song choice: Harbour Lights.

Eddie Coady (85) – Marked 60 years of membership, recalling playing for President Éamon de Valera as a young man — and a near-handshake through the car window. His song choice: Under The Bridges of Paris.

Deborah Fenlon (42), a cornet player with 30 years service, performed Cherry Pink in memory of her late father, former bandmaster Piery Fenlon.

Deborah’s daughter Jude (16), the youngest band member, shared how she inherited her instrument and music book from 95-yearold Ollie on the day she joined. Her song choice: Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.

Denise Fenlon Brooks (53) spoke about her late father Piery’s legacy, having inspired

generations to join the band. With 42 years of service, Denise is the band’s current bandmaster. Her chosen hymn: Abide With Me. Denise’s sons, Jody (18) and Patrick (17), both members since childhood, celebrated 10 years of service. Jody performed Colours of the Wind and Patrick chose Rockin’ All Over the World. Band member Jimmy Caufield (80+) spoke movingly about how the band helped him recover from a stroke.

Former showband musician Dermot McMullan (90) has been the Graiguenamanagh Brass Band’s drummer for almost two decades. Song choice if tomorrow never comes.

Bríd O’Dwyer (22) marked 10 years of service, reflecting with her song choice: One Moment in Time.

Michael Fenlon (71) celebrated 59 years of service, performing Blue Bayou. Michael Connolly of the New Ross Brass Band represented a long tradition of neighbouring bands supporting one another since wartime. Davy Dwyer, originally in the Inistioge Band, has given many grwat years of service to band , in more recentvyearsplaing a drum , he performed Beer Barrel Polka.

Graiguenamanagh Brass Band

Kilkenny Science Festival 2025 breaks all records

Kilkenny Science Festival attendances have broken all previous records, preliminary figures show.

As many as 4,500 people attended an extended programme of events run in schools, pubs, a theatre, a museum, Kilkenny Castle and elsewhere and extra room had to be added at several venues to accommodate public demand, Nollaig Healy, Project Manager with CALMAST, the South East Technological University’s STEM engagement centre explained. New events included the science behind stone masonry at the Medieval Mile museum, Chemistry in the Movies’ with Dr John O’Donoghue and ‘Serial Killers: Fascination with True Crime’ with psychologists at SETU, Dr Lorraine Bowman Grieve and Dr Jennifer O’Mahoney.

Nollaig Healy said the new events really worked and thanked the public, the speakers, the venue hosts, and everyone who worked together to break all audience participation records.

“The Kilkenny public have always

rowed in behind Science Week. But this year was extra special. We are extremely thankful to Research Ireland for their funding

and guidance again this year. We worked very closely with the library services, with

Callan and Kilkenny Macra Support Ceart Health Partnership

Ceart, the Callan-based medical facility providing vital services to people living with chronic illness and pain across Kilkenny, Carlow, and South Tipperary, has received a generous boost from the local Macra community. As a pioneering pilot project partially funded by the HSE, Ceart relies heavily on public support, making donations like this essential to its continued success.

Callan and Kilkenny Macra recently joined forces to host the popular “Mr. Personality Contest,” donating all proceeds to Ceart Health Partnership. Cllr. Joe Lyons, Chairman of Ceart, expressed heartfelt gratitude, noting that “every contribution counts and is spent wisely.” He praised Macra for their long-standing commitment to supporting deserving charities and community initiatives.

John Healy, Director of Ceart and a former Macra member himself, highlighted the importance of providing social opportunities for young people, especially in rural areas where such outlets are limited. He acknowledged Macra’s role in fostering engagement and connection among youth, which complements Ceart’s broader

community-focused mission.

Managing Director Julianne Maher, whose father TJ Maher was a former IFA Leader, MEP, and active Macra member, personally thanked the Callan and Kilkenny Macra participants. She praised their dedication and the tangible impact their support has on advancing Ceart’s work.

Michael Lawler, Chairman of Macra, presented the cheque, describing it as an honour to support such a meaningful initiative. “Ceart’s work touches the lives of so many,” he said, “and it is a privilege to contribute to something that makes a real difference in our communities.”

This partnership exemplifies the power of community collaboration. Initiatives like the “Mr. Personality Contest” not only raise vital funds but also strengthen social networks, particularly for young people in rural areas. Thanks to the generosity and commitment of groups like Macra, Ceart can continue providing innovative, lifechanging services to those who need them most. Every donation ensures patients across Kilkenny, Carlow, and South Tipperary receive essential care, leaving a lasting, positive impact on families throughout the region.

“STEM engagement is crucial in Kilkenny and across the south east, particularly for long-established companies like Glanbia and new employers such as Abbott heavily invested in Kilkenny. Their continued success requires that they have a skilled, available local talent pool. The level of STEM interest and engagement from primary school level right up to the retired

Rothe House, the Medieval Mile Museum, Kilkenny Castle, Castlecomer Discovery Park,

Science week Colaiste Abhainn

Towns, villages, and communities in North Kilkenny are getting ready for Christmas, planning their own Christmas decorations and events. As people visit and travel through the towns, they can be welcomed by the Christmas decorations and local festive cheer through the streets of the area. There are many places to explore and events to experience in north Kilkenny for all ages and interests. Here is a guide on the places you can visit in the northern parts of Kilkenny, along with how you can celebrate Christmas through the many events available in north Kilkenny this year.

Freshford

The Ionad Lachtaín Christmas Fair 2025 is a highly anticipated festive event held at St Lachtain’s Church & Arts Centre in Freshford, Co. Kilkenny. The fair is slated for Sunday, 7 December 2025, running from 12 pm to 4 pm. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the historic 12thcentury St. Lachtain’s Church, the fair promises to be a warm and community-centred celebration. Ionad Lachtaín itself serves as a heritage centre, museum, and gallery, preserving and sharing the rich local history of Freshford. Over the years, the venue has become well-known for its cultural events, art exhibitions, and local craft fairs, making it a fitting location for this Christmas gathering.

The fair will feature a delightful array of locally made crafts - knitted toys and garments, Christmas cards, paintings, jewellery, decorations, and more. This is perfect for Christmas shopping with a local flavour. In addition to shopping, the fair will host a raffle, mulled cider, and other seasonal treats, enhancing its warm, festive community feel.

The venue is open every Saturday and Sunday outside of special events, and its

Celebrating in North Kilkenny Christmas Community, crafts and winter magic

Freshford

museum and shop provide a constant draw for visitors interested in local heritage and craft. During the fair, more people than usual can explore the heritage exhibits, including artifacts and local histories displayed in the museum.

The Ionad Lachtaín Christmas Fair 2025 is not just a market — it’s a celebration of community, craft, and heritage. It offers a charming and intimate Christmas shopping experience, surrounded by the historical beauty of St. Lachtain’s Church. Whether you're looking for unique handmade gifts, enjoying seasonal treats, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the fair is sure to be a highlight of the holiday season in Freshford.

Urlingford

Another very local festive touch comes from the Knitting & Crochet Circle that meets weekly at the Mill Family Resource Centre in Urlingford. This year’s Christmas fair will be held on the 5th December from 11am. Members bring their handmade knitwear and crochet items to sell.

The event is hosted by the Mill Family Resource Centre in Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny. The centre is a well-known community hub for the town, offering family support, youth programming, adult education, and a space for community groups to meet.

The Knitting & Crochet Circle

Urlingford

meet every Wednesday in the Mill FRC from 2pm to 4:30pm and the Christmas Fair will show the community what they’ve been up to the past year! For residents of Urlingford, the Knitting & Crochet Circle Christmas Fair offers a more intimate, homegrown complement to larger celebra-

Urlingford

tions. It centers on handmade virtue, community, and craft. You can expect to browse knitted and crocheted items, enjoy tea or coffee, support a raffle, and connect with the local crafting circle — all in the friendly, familiar space of the Mill Family Resource Centre.

Freshford

Gowran

Christmas in Gowran carries a gentle, community‑oriented charm, anchored by local traditions and the warmth of small‑town life. As December rolls in, families gather for carol evenings, while lights twinkle along the quiet streets of this historic Kilkenny town. Gowran’s new playground, part of the Gowran Outdoor Hub, hopes to play host to happy children playing to their heart’s content and hopefully burning out some of that energy from Christ mas excitement! The park features a 300 metre walking

and running track, multi use courts for basketball, tennis, and football, and a specially designed playscape that wel comes people of all ages and abilities. This new hub repre sents a major step forward for the town providing a safe, vibrant space for families to gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors this Christmas. One highlight on the horizon is the Gowran Panto mime Society’s return: they’re staging Cinderella in Febru ary 2026. Directed by Peter Madden, with Rachel Leydon as Musical Director and Rachel Bawle choreograph

place, with local talent lining up for the iconic roles. The panto continues a beloved tradition that knits the com munity together, offering a very local way to carry the magic of Christmas into the new year.

Castlecomer

ing, this production promises classic panto fun, laughter, and community spirit. Au ditions have already taken

Get ready for festive fun in Castlecomer! On Sunday, 7 December 2025, Castlecomer Community Hall will host the Santa Spectacular, a magical family Christmas event. There are two performances: a 12pm show and a 3pm show. Doors open 30 minutes before each session, giving guests time to settle in and soak up the joyful atmosphere. The event features a sing along stage show starring Santa and his elves expect cheerful carols, classic Christ mas tunes, and interactive moments that will keep chil dren (and adults) engaged and smiling. After the show, every child is invited to meet Santa in person, with a special

Gowran's Pantomime in 2025 - Rapunzel

Gowran

gift for each child and the opportunity for parents to take photos. The event is organised in a way that’s very familyfriendly: the show runs about two hours, and the relaxed setting makes it a wonderful way to begin the Christmas season together.

The Castlecomer Wellie Race is held on the 1st January every year. Each year promises to be a festive highlight for the community, combining fun, charity, and the lingering spirit of Christmas. Participants don their wellington boots and tackle a challenging cross-country course around Castlecomer, all while raising money for local charities. The event has become a beloved tradition, drawing families, friends, and visitors to share in the laughter and excitement.

What makes the race especially magical is its connection to the holiday season. Scheduled shortly after Christmas, it offers the perfect way to shake off the festive in-

dulgence while staying active outdoors. Many runners and spectators add a Christmas twist by wearing Santa hats, reindeer antlers, or bright festive costumes, turning the race into a cheerful celebration of community spirit. Beyond the costumes and muddy boots, the Wellie Race is a heartfelt reminder of giving back. Funds raised support local schools, charities, and social programs, reflecting the generosity and warmth often associated with Christmas. For many in Castlecomer, the race is not just a sporting event—it is a joyful way to carry the holiday spirit forward, celebrating togetherness, resilience, and the simple joy of taking part in something larger than oneself.

From raffles, charity runs, and Santa visits, to concerts and festivals, there’s plenty of Christmas fun and activity in north Kilkenny for all. However you spend your Christmas in north Kilkenny,

Castlecomer

Castlecomer

Photo: Alf Harvey

Pop star Una Healy hits the right note for charity with the launch of Lidl Ireland’s Trolley Dash in aid of Family Carers Ireland

Last year Kilkenny customers raised more than €5,400 for Lidl’s charity partner

Previous Lidl Kilkenny Trolley Dash winner bags over €480 worth of festive goodies

Lidl Ireland has teamed up with Irish singer and TV personality Una Healy to launch this year’s Trolley Dash campaign, giving shoppers across Ireland the chance to win a supermarket sweep-style dash at their local store, with one lucky winner selected from each of Lidl’s 189 stores nationwide to bag a festive feast this Christmas. Last year’s Kilkenny customers raise more than €5,400 for Lidl’s charity partner, with previous Lidl Kilkenny Trolley Dash winner bagging over €480 worth of festive goodies

With two minutes on the clock, Trolley Dashers can grab as many items on their Christmas shopping list as they can from their local Lidl store and bag a festive feast. Funds raised from the flagship activity have supported the delivery of Family Carers Ireland’s supports and services across the country.

Supporting this year’s launch, Una Healy commented:

“As a single mum, I know how important it is for people in a caring role to have a support network. Particularly for the half a million family carers across Ireland, they deserve to feel supported and seen and Family Carers Ireland does an amazing job in delivering bespoke supports.

Catherine Cox, Head of Communications and Policy at Family Carers Ireland, said:

“Our partnership with Lidl Ireland through the Trolley Dash campaign is a wonderful way to bring a bit of festive spirit to what is an incredible fundraising campaign. It really is a highlight in the fundraising calendar for

us, for Lidl and for shoppers. By taking part, customers and employees will help us to provide essential supports and services to those caring for loved ones every day.

Tickets for Lidl Ireland’s Trolley Dash will go on sale from Monday, 17th November to Sunday, 30th November 2025, giving customers the chance to participate in their local store’s dash throughout December while supporting Family Carers Ireland. Winners will be contacted directly by Lidl Ireland and invited to take part in a clean-run shopping dash before their store opens.

For more information about Lidl’s Christmas Trolley Dash and for full terms and conditions, please visit: www.lidl.ie/ trolleydash

Country Christmas concert

The Watergate Theatre is the venue once again for the annual Stars of Irish Country Christmas Concert which will be happening on Sunday 30th of November.

There is another wonderful lineup of top class performers ready to take to the stage on the night with many of your favourite Christmas songs included in the programme. Artists appearing on the night include the legendary Brendan Shine, award winning vocalist Trudi Lalor, the Wee Man from Strabane Hugo Duncan, Mick Foster (of Foster and Allen) and Moyra Frasier. Newcomer Effie Neill will also be there to sing some of her very popular songs.

All the entertainers will be backed by the superb Matrimony Band from Northern Ireland. The concert will be hosted by the ever popular James Lakes from KCLR. It’s a great way to get your Christmas season off to a musical start!

year. Early booking is advised. Doors open at 7pm and the concert will commence

This event sells out every

Bishop Coll to return to Donegal

As Bishop Coll is appointed to the Diocese of Raphoe, The Kilkenny Observer reproduces his letter to priests, religious and lay faithful of the Diocese of Ossory

The news of my appointment as Bishop of Raphoe, my home diocese, means that my time as Bishop of Ossory has been all too brief. My heart is filled with gratitude to God for the gift of these past three years, and gratitude to you, the priests, religious and lay faithful of this diocese, who welcomed me so warmly and shared with me the life of faith that has long been the mainstay of this Church. When I first arrived in Ossory, I came as a stranger. I leave as one who has been enriched by your friendship, your faith and your witness. The Diocese of Ossory is blessed with a remarkable sense of community - a faith that is lived in parishes, schools, families and countless works of service. I have seen that faith in the celebration of the Eucharist, in parish gatherings, in the care of the vulnerable, sick and elderly, in the commitment of our Catholic schools, in the welcome extended to newcomers, and in the tireless service of priests who give of themselves day in and day out.

I want to thank the priests of Ossory most especially. Your dedication, often in demanding circumstances, has been a

source of deep inspiration to me. You have carried the burdens of pastoral ministry with courage, patience and good humour. I have been privileged to pray with you, to listen to you and to learn from you. Thank you for your kindness to me and for the faithfulness with which you continue to serve your people.

I also want to express a word of sincere gratitude to those who have worked alongside me daily- the staff in the bishop's office and those who diligently ensure that the many tasks of

contributed their professionalism, time and talent to the various diocesan bodies, councils and committees. Your insight and generosity have enriched the life of the diocese and strengthened the bonds of collaboration that are so essential to the Church's mission today.

To the religious sisters, priests and brothers who have contributed so much, often quietly and unseen, I offer my heartfelt thanks. Your prayer and your service are part of the deep spiritual fabric of this

And to the lay faithful - to those who lead, teach, organise, volunteer and accompany others in so many ways - I express my sincere appreciation. I want especially to acknowledge parishes and pastoral areas so generously with their time and talent: in parish pastoral councils, finance councils, ministries and the many other ways in which people pull together to serve their communities.

Thanks, too, to all involved both in the annual Diocesan Lourdes Pilgrimage and in youth ministry. The future of the Church will depend in no small way on the faith and generosity of lay men and women who take seriously their baptismal call to mission.

It is no secret that the Church in Ireland is living through a time of profound transition. The questions being asked at national level about the future shape and structure of our dioceses are not merely administrative - they are pastoral and spiritual. They invite us to consider how best to serve the Gospel in a society that is changing rapidly. Numbers and boundaries will not define the future of the Church - faith will. What matters most is that we remain open to the Spirit, willing to collaborate and ready to place Christ at the centre of all we do.

Here in Ossory, that spirit of renewal and collaboration is already well advanced. The work of reorganising the diocese into pastoral areas has been carried forward with generosity, realism and faith. I have seen priests and people embracing this process,

not as a burden, but as an opportunity to shape together the Church's mission for the years ahead. I pray that the first steps that the Diocese is now making in terms of introducing the Ministry of Catechist may be supported and that the project in time will prove to be a great blessing. I am hopeful that what is emerging in Ossory can be a model of how the Church in Ireland might respond creatively and faithfully to the needs of our time.

During my time here, I have seen many signs of renewal: lay people taking on new roles in parish life; priests working together with creativity and generosity; communities reimagining how faith can be handed on to a new generation. These are seeds of hope. I am convinced that the Church in Ossory, with its long history of learning, worship and service, has the capacity to navigate this time of change with faith and courage.

As I return now to the Diocese of Raphoe, I do so carrying with me a deep affection for the people, priests and religious of Ossory. You have taught me much about what it means to

be Church - about patience, perseverance and the quiet fidelity that keeps the flame of faith alive. For all of this and more, I thank you. Please know that you will remain in my prayers. I will continue to ask the Lord to bless this diocese - its priests, its people, its religious, its schools, its parishes and pastoral areasand to guide you as you discern the path ahead. I pray, too, for my successor, whoever he may be, that he may be received with the same warmth and generosity that you have shown to me, and that he may find here the same spirit of faith and friendship that I have known. May the Lord who began the good work in us bring it to completion. May he bless the Diocese of Ossory in the years to come and may he grant us all the grace to walk together in faith, with hope in our hearts and Christ as our companion on the journey. He is, as my episcopal motto reminds us, truly 'Christ Jesus our hope' (1Tim. 1:1).

Brendan Shine

Trudi Lalor

Homes & Gardens

Maple Lodge, a home for equestrians

HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Tucked into the rolling Kilkenny countryside, Maple Lodge sits halfway between Inistioge and Thomastown. This lightfilled, five-bedroom family home is full of character and ideal for equine enthusiasts, with excellent facilities for horses.

Driving up a tree-lined avenue, the sense of privacy is immediate. A miniature lake greets visitors at the entrance, and a stretch of woodland planted with native Irish trees

adds to the setting. The property sits on roughly 5.66 acres, with stud-railed paddocks flanking the avenue and a larger paddock wrapping around the side and rear of the house. A stable block with three generous stables and an adjoining garage with storage makes horse care easy, while ample parking and a separate gated yard access keep everything practical.

Garden lovers will appreciate the kitchen garden, complete with a polytunnel and raised beds.

The house itself is all on one level, designed for modern family life. An impressive entrance lobby leads to a spacious openplan living, dining and kitchen area along the southern side of the house. The sunroom, with its painted colonial-style vaulted ceiling, opens onto a sandstone patio overlooking landscaped gardens, paddocks and the Nore Valley beyond.

Inside, the kitchen is a highlight, with bespoke painted wood cabinets, granite countertops and a walk-in pantry. Five double bedrooms offer flex-

ibility, including one currently used as a studio. The master suite features a beautifully finished ensuite, while the main bathroom includes both a bath and separate shower. Thoughtful touches like a boot room and utility/laundry room make life easy.

Blending warmth, style and practicality, Maple Lodge is a country home designed for family living and entertaining, where every detail feels considered.

Agent: DNG

Opportunist burglars don’t wait, neither should you

HOME SMART

Although residential burglaries dropped by 13 per cent nationally in the first half of 2025, there’s no reason to be complacent. Even one breakin is one too many, and the darker evenings make homes more vulnerable to opportunistic thieves.

An Garda Síochána’s advice is simple but effective: always lock doors and windows, turn on lights (or use timers) and set your alarm. Keep keys safely out of sight - never under a doormat or in obvious

spots - and make a record of your valuable items so they can be traced if stolen. If your home will be empty, ask a trusted neighbour or family member to check in and collect post. Timers on lights and motion sensors outside help your home look lived-in, while letting your local Garda station know the property is vacant adds extra oversight. Be careful on social media: don’t post holiday updates or photos until you’re back and switch off location sharing on devices.

In the garden, lock sheds, store tools safely and trim

Feeding, sowing and protecting GARDEN NOTES

As nights draw in, look after wildlife. Hang bird feeders with nuts, seeds and fat balls and keep water unfrozen with a floating ball. Pile leaves in corners for hedgehogs.

Protect outdoor taps from frost with insulation. Check stored crops regularly, removing any that have spoiled. If you want early veg next year, sow broad beans in welldrained soil. Finally, take a moment to enjoy the bare beauty of the winter garden.

Spa touches for bathrooms

INTERIORS

You don’t need a full renovation to bring a little spa serenity into your bathroom.

Start with colour - soft neutrals, stone greys and muted greens help calm the senses and make the space feel more restful. Add natural textures like wood, marble or stone to create warmth and balance.

Lighting is key: use dimmable bulbs or warm LED strips to soften the atmosphere, and place candles or diffusers for a soothing scent. Keep clutter tucked away - clear surfaces make the room feel instantly more tranquil.

Finally, treat yourself to small luxuries: fluffy towels, a cosy dressing robe, or a few leafy plants can turn a practical space into a daily retreat. With just a few thoughtful details, your bathroom can become the most relaxing room in the house.

shrubs so no one can hide behind them. Defensive planting, like prickly hedges, deters intruders, while a tidy garden makes it look like someone’s home.

Most burglaries are opportunistic. Don’t make your home an easy target: check doors and windows are secure, use quality locks and make sure your alarm is in working order. Well-placed lighting -inside and out - also makes your home less attractive to thieves and gives everyone a little extra peace of mind as the nights draw in.

tonodiaz

Sinéad Keane - A girl of ambition

By Ger Cody Photos jbs

As people made their way to the St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall at the Butts Green, fireworks lit the sky overhead. It was Halloween night - Oíche Shamhna. The term literally translates to ‘Samhain Eve’ referring to the ancient Irish festival of Samhain, which marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of winter. And in a strange way, the night was very appropriate as it marked a change in seasons for Kilkenny woman Sinéad Keane. Sinéad, who for years has been dabbling in prose and poetry was never able to have them printed. Oíche Shamhna marked a significant change for Ireland and a major change for Sinéad also. Family and friends gathered for the launch of Sinéad Keane's wonderful book of poetry.

Sinéad was born in Castlebar, Co. Mayo. At the age of six, she moved with her family to Kilkenny where she grew up and went to school, attending St Canice’s primary and Loreto Secondary School. She would later go on to complete a Domestic Science course in Carrickon-Suir. Writing has long been her passion, and for over thirty years she has

been crafting poetry that reflects her life, roots, and inspiration.

As poetry launches go this one was special, comprising family and friends. Contributing enormously to the event was Steve Nolan whose charismatic approach put everyone at ease and his jovial quips made it such a pleasant night. Steve is Project Facilitator at The Neighbourhood Hall and his personality alone would win you over. Steve explained that the involvement of St Canices’s Neighbourhood Hall and Sinéad’s book came about by chance. “I was standing outside the hall one day and Sinéad passed by. First there was a wave, then a hello and before I knew it, Sinéad was in the hall on a regular basis talking all things poetry.”

Steve went on to explain that the Neighbourhood Hall manager Jenny and himself agreed to produce Sinéad's book of poetry and described the project as most enjoyable and uplifting.

Sinéad read three of her poems on the night and took part in a question and answer session. Steve Nolan also read a poem ‘My Treasure’, and it is fair to say that his theatrical training stood to him. Ms Keane thanked Steve and Jenny and paid special thanks

to family and friends who encouraged and supported her with her writing. “I have quite a lot of poems written

but I never knew how to put them into book form,” said Sinéad. She concluded by saying how much

A Girl of Ambition

By Sinead Keane

I know a girl with glamour and charm

Longing to know and with nowhere to go

She hears people talking and disregards walking

She knows what is wrong but she’s not very strong

She needs some attention if only to mention

She’s never the kind to have you in mind

She’ll trip and she’ll stumble but never will grumble

There’s often a day when she’s far away

Without realising her whole life’s reviving

She’s a girl of ambition without recognition

She’ll take in what’s around with never a sound

Sometimes at night, to her delight,

She’ll work out your wages or maybe your ages

She’s dreamt every dream that ever was seen

Falling down mountains or sitting in fountains

Or running through fields when all is revealed

She’ll never repeat something so neat

A girl of ambition with good intuition

She’s tried to be kind, faced fear while blind

The girl I speak of is me.

A girl, no, a woman I see.

A girl with my dignity

A woman with something in me.

A girl who knows she’s not perfect

But, you know, somethings are not worth it

A girl who knows as far as it goes

But wants recognition for all her ambition.

she appreciated people turning up to the book launch. A Girl of Ambition - a collection of poems by

Sinead Keane is available from the author or you can make enquiries at the Neighbourhood Hall.

Pictured at the launch of ‘A girl of ambition’ were: Steve Nolan (project facilitator) Sinead Keane (author) and Jenny Cooke (manager at The neighbourhood hall)

The beautifully designed cover of A girl of ambition, produced by The neighbourhood hall, Kilkenny

Sinéad Keane , whose poetry book ‘A girl of ambition’ was launched on Halloween night

A family affair.. Members of the Keane family attending the launch of Sinnéad’s book of poetry. Bríd Kenny. Sinéad , Pádraic and Siobhán Keane

Supporting the poetry book launch at The Neighbourhood hall were Gwen Connor, Joan Fenton, and Colette Martin

Enjoying the launch of ‘A girl of ambition : Sean Nolan, Amanda Nolan and Bríd Kenny

Ballyfoyle councillor Pat Fitzpatrick picture with Sinéad Keane at her book launch

Ann Marie Fitzpatrick gets a signed copy of Sinéad Keanes book of poetry

Food & Drink

Teamwork and vision drive Lady Helen’s double win

AWARDS

The Lady Helen at Mount Juliet has once again proven why it remains one of Ireland’s leading dining destinations.

The Thomastown-based restaurant added two major honours to its growing list of accolades at this year’s Business Post Food & Wine Awards, taking home the titles of Best Wine Experience and Best Restaurant in Leinster.

The double win reflects not only the restaurant’s reputation for exceptional cooking but also the strength of its front-of-house and wine programme - a combination that continues to set the Lady Helen apart on the national stage.

To get a sense of what these awards mean for the team, Kilkenny Observer spoke with Mark Dunne, General Manager at Mount Juliet.

How does it feel for the Lady Helen to be recognised as both Best Restaurant and Best Wine Experience in Leinster by the Food & Wine Awards 2025?

Mark Dunne: We’re absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to receive these two awards. To be recognised by Food & Wine and our peers within the industry is incredibly meaningful to all of us at Lady Helen. These accolades are a testament to the dedication, passion, and precision that our entire team brings to every service, from the kitchen to the dining room. It’s a wonderful validation of our ongoing commitment to delivering an exceptional dining and wine experience that reflects both the character of Mount Juliet Estate and the richness of Irish produce.

What do you think sets the Lady Helen apart from other

fine dining experiences in Ireland – particularly when it comes to the wine offering and overall guest experience?

Mark Dunne: What truly sets Lady Helen apart is the harmony between our food, wine and service. Every element of the guest experience is considered in detail, from the warm welcome at the door to the final sip of wine. Our menu is rooted in Ireland’s finest seasonal ingredients, prepared with creativity and respect for their origin.

On the wine side, our team takes great pride in curating a list that both complements and elevates the food, offering a balance of classic regions and exciting new discoveries. It’s not just about pairing wine with dishes; it’s about crafting a complete sensory journey that feels personal, elegant and memorable.

Juliet’s culinar y and hospitality approach?

Mark Dunne: These awards perfectly embody Mount Juliet’s philosophy of timeless Irish hospitality combined with contemporary culinary excellence. At the heart of our approach is a respect for authenticity, showcasing the best of Ireland’s natural larder through refined technique and thoughtful presentation. We believe true luxury lies in attention to detail and genuine connection. Whether guests visit for dinner at Lady Helen or stay across the Estate, we want them to feel both inspired and at home. Recognition from Food & Wine reinforces that this vision continues to resonate with our guests and with the wider hospitality community.

Sweet chestnuts - a winter warmer

INGREDIENT

As winter settles in, sweet chestnuts begin to appear here and there in shops - not everywhere, but often enough that

cooked versions are usually the easiest to find. They keep well, are handy to use, and still give that lovely seasonal flavour associated with this time of year.

same as the horse chestnuts (conkers). Horse chestnuts are the ones with the big, shiny brown seeds inside a thick, knobbly green casing - they’re not edible.

Sweet chestnuts are quite different: their shells come in a much spikier, hedgehog-like casing, and the nuts themselves are smaller, flatter and pointed on one side. The two trees look similar at a glance, but in the kitchen they are worlds apart.

Chestnuts have a soft texture and a mild, slightly sweet taste. If you do get fresh ones, the prep is simple: score the shell, roast them until they open, and peel while still warm. But the pre-cooked

Another win for Malzard’s Pub

PUBS

Malzard’s Pub in Stoneyford has added another major accolade to its name, taking home the “Best Outdoor Space” award at the 2025 Irish Pub Awards.

The annual ceremony, organised by the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland and the Licensed Vintners Association, praised the Kilkenny pub for its standout outdoor area. The award, sponsored by Bulmers Irish Cider, marks yet another achievement for Malzard’s, which was crowned Irish Pub of the Year in 2024.

Shoppers in festive mood as grocery sales jump 5.5 per cent

ones work just as well for everyday cooking. They’re lovely stirred through stuffing, blended into a winter soup, or added to roast vegetables for a bit of depth. Chestnut purée is handy tooa spoon mixed into chocolate cake batter or folded through whipped cream gives a gentle seasonal lift without any fuss. They also bring a bit of goodness. Chestnuts are naturally low in fat, high in fibre and one of the few nuts that contain vitamin C, which is no harm at this time of year. The precooked ones are a great shortcut and ideal for everyday cooking, especially if you’re adding them to soups, salads or vegetable trays.

GROCERIES

Irish shoppers are getting into the Christmas spirit early, with grocery sales up 5.5 per cent in the four weeks to November 2025, according to market researcher Worldpanel. Consumers spent an extra €64 million, stocking up on festive favourites despite ongoing price rises.

“Christmas ads are lighting up screens and shelves are bursting with seasonal treats,” said Emer Healy, business development director at Worldpanel. Boxed chocolates alone saw an extra €8 million spent compared with last month.

Promotions remain a strong draw, with 22 per cent of all gro-

cery sales on offer, up nearly 6 per cent on last year. Own-label products continue to shine, rising 6.3 per cent, while premium ranges jumped 15.3 per cent, proving shoppers are willing to indulge a little without breaking the bank.

Online shopping is also booming, up 6.4 per cent year-on-year, taking 5.6 per cent of the market as consumers balance convenience with festive prep. In-store, Dunnes leads with 24.6 per cent market share, followed by Tesco, SuperValu, Lidl, and Aldi. Healy added, “Shoppers are looking for both value and quality this Christmastreating themselves while keeping an eye on the budget.”

Malzard’s Pub, Stoneyford, pictured in 2024, wins again with the 2025 Best Outdoor Space award

Freepik

How do these awards reflect the vision or philosophy behind Mount

(L-R): Aaron Logan Director of Operations, Jimmy Fitzgerald Manor House Manager, Executive Chef John Kelly, Lady Helen and Tom Phelan Head Pastry Chef, representing Mount Juliet Estate

Armistice Day

Photos: jbs

Each year, on Remembrance Day, millions of people take a moment’s silence to remember those who have died in wars across the world.

On Remembrance Sunday, many services across the world take place at churches, memorial sites and cenotaphs to commemorate fallen soldiers, comrades and civilians lost to conflict. Many of our older citizens can relate to the atrocities of WWI and WWII.

But what of our younger generation, on whom the baton of remembrance will fall in a heartbeat? Teaching young people about the importance of remembrance can come from educating them about previous wars throughout history and their impacts on civilians, soldiers and entire countries. This can be through classroom teaching, school trips and learning about experiences of ordinary people who lived and fought throughout the war time. It highlights the horrors and turbulent times millions of people experienced through the periods of war time, and how with hope, spirit and fight, they won.

On November 9th, at The Peace Park in Kilkenny city such was the case. At their annual commemoration of Armistice Day, The Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee put on a very dignified

Those that fought their life – they sac

commemoration with politicians, army, Gardaí and UN personnel in attendance. They were there at the magnificent WWI memorial to

remember the Kilkenny men and women who fought and died in that bloody war.

This year however, the organising

committee went a step further when they included students and staff of Kilkenny College. According to a spokesperson for the committee, the intention is to include more schools going forward. And what a difference it made to have young people contributing. Not only contributing but doing so with the panache and elegance that the occasion deserved. The students were well rehearsed and credit must go to each of the participants and indeed their school. Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí.

The day was uplifting and respectful with many locals and visitors alike in attendance, remembering relatives who

travelled to the different wars. The most common battle spots in World War I were on the Western Front in France and Belgium, characterised by extensive trench warfare, and the Eastern Front which stretched across Eastern Europe. Other major fronts included the Italian Front, the Balkan Front, and the Middle Eastern Front.

The afternoon consisted of music, prayer, song and poetry as well as the laying of wreaths.

Candle lit in memory

Memorial services are a time for reflection, remembrance, and honouring the life of a loved one.

One of the most poignant and symbolic rituals performed during

didn’t just sacrifice rificed their future

these services is the lighting of candles. This simple act carries a profound significance that transcends cultural and religious boundaries, offering a universal language of love, loss, and hope. The tradition of lighting candles in memory of the deceased dates back to ancient times. Various cultures and religions have incorporated this ritual into their mourning practices, each attributing their unique interpretations and meanings. Kilkenny College teacher Paul Cuddihy lit a candle for all who died.

Students from Kilkenny College who participated included: Lorna West Keogh who read a prayer

of Remembrance; Adam Walsh Meaney who read a thank you to the Unknown Soldier; Iona McIver who read ‘In Flanders Fields’; Eoin Lazarus who delivered ‘When the guns fall silent’. It was particularly nice to hear student Lynn Phillips play ‘The Last Post and Reveille’ on the trumpet. Other Music was supplied by piper Finbarr McCarthy who played ‘The Pipers Lament’ and The National Anthem. Accompanied by Liz Kett on guitar, Aine Prendergast sang ‘Amazing Grace’ and ‘Nearer my God to Thee’. The Ode of Remembrance was recited by Jim Fee, while the raising of the Irish flag to full mast was performed by Bobby Kearney.

Wreath Laying

The following people laid wreaths: Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Mary Hilda Cavanagh;

Mayor John Coonan; Captain Sinéad Ní Bhrian, James Stephens Barracks; Donal Croughan, chair of Kilkenny War Memorial Committee;

Cllr Eugene McGuinness; Mr John Collins, Chief Fire Officer; Garda Jamie Doyle; Jim Free, the Royal Irish Rangers; Michael Botha, The Order of Tin Hats; Gus Hennessy, The Order of Ex Servicemen O.N.E.; Liam Barry, United Nations Veterans; Mary Anne Maher, Combined Irish Regiments Aubrey O’Keeffe, Deputy Principal Kilkenny College. Chairman of the Kilkenny War Memorial Committee, Donal Croughan, thanked the Chair of Kilkenny County Council, Mary Hilda Cavanagh and Mayor John Coonan for their attendance. Mr Croughan thanked all for their participation. The event concluded with refreshments at The Home Rule Club.

Leinster glory sealed in thrilling victory

Dicksboro senior camogie team has once again proven why they are a powerhouse in Leinster, capturing the 2025 AIB Leinster Senior Club Camogie Championship in a game full of drama, skill, and determination. It was a triumph that showcased not just talent, but heart the kind of performance that reminds everyone why this team is feared.

The journey to the final was a statement in itself. In the semi-final, Dicksboro faced Birr, a side with plenty of pedigree but little answer to the ’Boro’s attacking firepower. From the first whistle, Dicksboro dominated, racking up a stunning 3-17 to 0-4 victory. Goals from Rachel D owling, Amy C lifford, and Orla Hanrick inside Birr’s stronghold highlighted the team’s precision, speed, and cohesion. The message was clear: Dicksboro were here to win, and they weren’t holding back.

The Leinster final, staged at SETU Carlow, brought a sterner test. Wexford giants Oulart-the-Ballagh jumped out of the blocks with an early goal, leaving Dicksboro trailing 1-9 to 0-7 at half-time. It was a moment that could have shaken any team, but not Dicksboro. With experience and resolve etched into every play, they regrouped during the break, ready to mount a comeback that would become the stuff of legend. The second half was pure

Dicksboro. The defense tightened, denying Oulart opportunities, while the forwards unleashed a relentless attack. Over twenty minutes, Dicksboro outscored their opponents 10 points to 4, gradually closing the gap and finally seizing the lead. When

the final whistle blew, the scoreboard read 0-17 to 1-13, a narrow but deserved victory that crowned Dicksboro Leinster champions once again. This win builds on a remarkable legacy. Just two years earlier, in 2023, Dicksboro captured their

first Leinster title by defeating St. Vincent’s (Dublin) 0-12 to 1-7, storming back from a halftime tie to dominate the second half. Now, in 2025, they have reinforced their place among the elite, setting the stage for even bigger ambitions at the All-

Stars shine at the weekend

It was an action-packed weekend for Kilkenny Stars teams across a variety of competitions and all over the country. After the heroics of our U18 Ladies the previous

weekend, up stepped our U20 Ladies this weekend with a home draw against Dublin Raiders in the Ken Clarke U20 National Cup Competition. The Stars put

in a dominant performance with Aimee O’Reilly, Aoibhin Dunphy, Caoimhe Timmons and Lena Zydek combining for 66 points in the game. Up next is a much

tougher challenge at home against Glanmire of Cork in December.

In Cork, our U14 Boys travelled to participate in the Cork Co Board tournament

Ireland level. At the core of this success is a squad brimming with talent and character. Veterans like Aoife Prendergast, a dependable freetaker, and Rachel Dowling, who thrives under pressure, have guided the team with skill and composure. Meanwhile, rising stars Amy C lifford and Orla Hanrick are proving that the future of Dicksboro camogie is just as bright as its present.

More than a trophy, this Leinster triumph embodies the culture of Dicksboro Camogie: resilience in adversity, unbreakable teamwork, and a belief that they belong at the top. For players, coaches, and supporters, lifting the cup is both a reward for their efforts and a springboard to further glory.

In the end, the 2025 Leinster final was more than a game, it was a showcase of passion, skill, and determination. Dicksboro have written another chapter in their storied history, but the story is far from over. If this team continues on its current trajectory, the Kilkenny side will remain a force to be reckoned with.

in Kilkenny just before Christmas on Saturday 20th December, one for the diaries!

with 17 of the top clubs from around the country. The guys had a tough start against Limerick Lions going down in that pone but bounced back with convincing wins against Blue Demons and Fr Matthews to book their place in the quarter finals against Eanna from Dublin. This was a fantastic game with both teams exchanging the lead regularly throughout and the game going right down to the wire. It was the Kilkenny team who came out on top to secure a semi-final spot and make history as the first Kilkenny team to make it this far in the competition. The guys ran out of steam in the semi-final in what was a gruelling schedule and lost out narrowly to Neptune of Cork. A fantastic day out for the boys.

In Ennis, our U16 Girls took part in the All Ireland League competition and started the day with a tough game against St Mary’s of Castleisland. The Kerry outfit came out on top in this one but the Stars bounced back with two big wins against Ennis Rockets and Liffey Celtics to make it a day worth remembering and keeping the team in contention in the overall standings. The next tournament will be hosted

Elsewhere our U12 Boys kept their unbeaten streak going in the league with a win away to Carlow while our U12 Girls put in a massive performance against giants of the ladies game Waterford Wildcats to secure the win. Our U15 Boys did the business against Carlow BC and our U14 Girls kicked off their league campaign with a great win against Portlaoise Panthers.

Club Chairperson Damien Brett said “There is a real air of positivity in the club at the moment. Our Coaches, Committees, Parents and Players are all working really hard together to make sure that we provide the best environment possible for our players to have fun and be the best versions of themselves on and off the court. Our club is proud to compete in the Kilkenny & South East Leagues while our focus goes beyond that as we work to continuously establish ourselves as a force in Irish basketball.”

Next Saturday our CluneTech Kilkenny Stars Ladies take on Moy Tolka Rovers at 6pm in O’Loughlin Gaels Gaa Club. Come along and support our ladies in what will be a very tough test for them against a really strong Dublin team.

What’s On

Back to Oz: Wicked’s final chapter

CINEMA

The magical world of Oz is about to face its most emotional reckoning yet in Wicked: For Good, the longawaited conclusion to the blockbuster musical adaptation. Directed by Jon M. Chu and starring C ynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, this second chapter deepens the bond - and the divide - b et ween the two witches as they grapple with the consequences of their choices.

Elphaba, now demonised as the Wicked Witch of the West, hides in the forest, fighting for the freedom of Oz’s silenced Animals while trying to expose the lies of the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum).

Glinda, on the other hand, has embraced her role as Oz’s radiant symbol of “goodness,” basking in her fame at Emerald Cit y’s palace. But behind her polished exterior, she’s haunted by her estrangement from Elphaba.

As G lind a prepares for a dazzling royal wedding to

Prince Fiyero (Jonathan Bailey), she attempts to broker p e ace between Elphaba and the Wizard - but her efforts backfire, driving a deeper wedge between her and her former friend.

This rift has domino effects that reach everyone: Boq (Ethan Slater) and Fiyero are forever changed, while Elphaba’s sister Nessarose (Marissa Bode) finds her own life shaken when a mysterious girl from Kansas appears.

With tensions escalating

and the people of Oz rising up against the “Wicked” Wit ch, Elphaba and Glinda must finally face each otherand their pasts. Only together, with honesty and empathy, can they hope to reshape their wor ld for g ood.

Fans can expect new music too: Stephen Schwartz has composed two brand-new songs, including one especially for each witch.

Wick ed: For Good opens in cinemas today, Friday, November 21

Phil Coulter’s Tranquility shines again

CONCERT

When Phil Coulter released Tranquility back in 1983, he had no idea it would become one of the most-loved albums in Irish music.

Its gentle piano sound struck a chord with people all over the country, and before long it had grown into a genuine phenomenon - millions of albums sold, packed-out concerts around the world and a steady flow of follow-up records in the same soothing style. Listeners couldn’t get enough of Coulter’s fresh takes on classic Irish

Your picks for this week

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

What to Read: The Widow, by John Grisham - John Grisham returns with The Widow, a gripping legal thriller about small-town lawyer Simon Latch, whose luck seems to change when 85-year-old Eleanor Barnett entrusts him with her secret $20 million fortune. But when Eleanor is hospitalised after a car accident, cracks begin to show in her story. Suddenly, Simon finds himself facing a murder charge in a web of deception and greed. Classic Grisham courtroom drama meets a twisting murder mystery fans won’t want to put down.

What to Stream: High Horse: The Black Cowboy - A powerful three-part docuseries from Jordan Peele, premiered on Peacock on November 20. It unpacks the erased legacy of Black cowboys in the Wild West, using archival footage and fresh interviews with figures like Tina Knowles, Bun B, Pam Grier and The Compton Cowboys. With a score by Raphael Saadiq, the series challenges outdated myths and celebrates the true, rich history of Black riders and their lasting impact.

What to Listen To: Aerosmith / Young Blud, ‘One More TIme’Rock legends Aerosmith are back with a brand-new track, “One More Time”, featuring the raw energy of rising star Young Blud. The collaboration blends Aerosmith’s signature guitar riffs and Steven Tyler’s unmistakable vocals with Young Blud’s modern, edgy style, creating a fresh yet nostalgic sound. Fans can expect a high-energy anthem about love, resilience and grabbing life by the reins.

tunes, familiar melodies and uplifting favourites.

More than 40 years on, Tranquility is making its way back to the stage in a new, updated production that gives the music a modern touch.

The Tranquility name has become a trusted favourite, so audiences can look forward to a relaxing evening of wellknown, much-loved pieces - all set in a warm, atmospheric venue lit by candlelight in the atmospheric setting of St Canice’s Cathedral.

Tickets: €40

What to Play: Kirby Air Riders - Get ready to race, Kirby Air Riders is zooming into Nintendo Switch 2 this month. Directed by Kirby creator Masahiro Sakurai, this long-awaited sequel revamps the cult classic Kirby Air Ride with 18 tracks (nine returning, nine brand new), a diverse roster including Meta Knight and King Dedede and enhanced modes like Top Ride, City Trial and a story-driven Road Trip.

Where to Start Feeling Festive: Get into the Christmas spirit with interior designer Liz Druhan at Rothe House on Saturday, November 22, for A Gentle Start to Christmas. Liz, from South Hill Studio, will guide you through a cosy, creative afternoon of styling, storytelling and inspiration. Learn how to craft timeless, natural Christmas decorations using greenery, bows and sustainable materials - all while enjoying mulled wine in a beautiful historic setting.

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

AGM TIME

Clara GAA Club invite all full members to our AGM, in Clara GAA Clubhouse, on Friday 21st November 2025 at 19.30.

CAMOGIE

Clara Camogie Club will hold its AGM on Sunday 23rd November at 11am. If anyone wants to get involved in any capacity, please let current committee member know. New faces and fresh ideas are always welcome.

CLUB LOTTO

The Lotto results for 11th November were numbers drawn - 4, 21, 26. There was no jackpot winner. €30 each to Phil Phelan, Billy O Dwyer, Padraic Brennan, Brigid Nolan, Donal Murphy. Thanks for your continued support and best of luck with next week’s jackpot.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

SAD NEWS

O’Loughlin Gaels members received the sad news of the death of Club President Mick Dooley on Friday last. Mick had been involved with the club since its formation. He was captain of the club’s first County Junior Championship winning team in 1975. When his playing career finished Mick was a constant and positive presence around the club, working as a volunteer on any project or activity the club undertook and as an encouraging supporter of all our teams. Mick was honoured by the club when he was named as Club President at the Re-Union night for the 1975 team and everyone in O’Loughlin’s was delighted to see him don the green jacket. The club extends its sincere sympathy to Mick’s wife Brigid, children Nichola, Justin and Dawn and to all of the extended Dooley family. Mick’s role in the establishment of the O’Loughlin’s Club and his contribution over the years will never be forgotten. Ní bheidh a leithead ann arís.

UNDER 16’S FOOTBALL WIN

In one of the few games to go ahead locally last weekend, after the incessant rainfall, was O’Loughlin Gaels Duggan Steel Roinn A Under-16 Football Championship semi-final game against Barrow Rangers in Paulstown on Sunday morning last. The result saw O’Loughlin’s win by the narrowest of margins 4-10 to 5-6. They will now face Kilmacow in the final.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated November 11th. The numbers drawn were 2, 8, 10 and 24 and the bonus number was 26. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com

Promotors Draw: 1. Eamonn Tyrrell c/o D Tyrrell. 2. Ollie O’Driscoll c/o D O’Driscoll 3. Mags and Dinny c/o John Joe/Dinny. 4. Brian (Snr). 5. Claire Breslin c/o Ml Doran. 6. Des Byrne c/o M Deegan. 7. Benny c/o M Cody. 8. John and Oliva Collins c/o Online. 9. Billy Leydon c/o Online. 10. Ann Brennan c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

AGM

Members are reminded that the club’s AGM will take place in larchfield on Thursday evening 27th November starting at 7.30pm sharp. Prior to the meeting Runai, Niall Connolly, will email his annual report to members, reviewing the achievements of club teams across all grades in hurling, football and camogie over the season plus details of the ambitious development plans for Larchfield and Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan.

REMEMBRANCE MASS

The annual Mass for deceased players, club members, their family members and friends will be celebrated by Fr. Kieran O’Shea in the clubrooms on Tuesday night, 25th November at 7.30pm. All are welcome to attend.

SCOR Na Nóg QUIZ

Congratulations to our U-14 panellists Eoghan O’Connor and Bobby Coomey who won the Kilkenny Scor Na Nóg table quiz competition last week. The win qualified the lads to represent Kilkenny in the Leinster finals next month. The best of luck to the young Village lads, Eoghan and Bobby

CLUB SHOP

With the playing season drawn to a close shop supervisor, Breda Manogue advises that the club shop will be closed for the rest of November and will reopen for Christmas orders on 2nd December. However, should anyone need an item from stock before then Breda may be contacted at 087 9648756. Breda also states that there will be a new fashionable range of club gear for hurlers and camogie players and supporters alike which would make ideal presents for under the tree at Christmas.

SYMPATHIES

The sympathies of the club’s membership are extended to Noel Whelan and his family on the death, after a long illness, of his wife Catherine (Kay) Whelan, Riverview, Kilkenny on Sunday 9th November in University Hospital, Waterford. Our condolences are also extended to Kay’s daughter Yvonne, her sons Fran, Billy, Darren, Gary, Conor, Shane, James, their families, her sisters Mary, Nora, Sheila and Helen, her brother Eddie and the extended Whelan and Hennessy families. A loyal club supporter who enjoyed the comradeship of her colleagues in the club’s highly regarded Ladies Committee of the 1970/80 and 90’s. Kay’s sons lined out for the club across all grades, Fran captaining the club’s junior hurlers to win the 2000 Kilkenny county junior title after a lapse of 45 years, and together with brother Gary was a member of the 2004/05 Kilkenny Leinster and All-Ireland club winning teams. Brothers Billy and Conor were members of the Kilkenny 2002 Junior “B” championship winning side. Following Requiem Mass in St. Patrick’s Church Kay was laid to rest in Ballykeeffe Cemetery. “Air dheis Laimh Dei go raibh a anam dilis”

LIBRARY NEWS

On Thursday next 20th November, from 11 to 12 noon, John Kirwan will deliver a talk on Lady Louise Tighe of Woodstock in Loughboy Library. John’s presentation will include details of Lady Louisa’s life and when she came to Woodstock after her marriage to William Tighe when she undertook the development of the renowned High Victorian Gardens at the Woodstock estate. John will talk about the famine and how the Tighe family provided help to local tenants through various schemes and lots more. As places are limited

FRESHFORD

SQUASH

Freshford Squash Club would like to congratulate young local man Nathan Walsh who had another big weekend of squash in Dublin last weekend. Nathan played in the Irish junior open with players travelling from Switzerland, France, Spain, and the U K. Nathan played in the U17 age group and took on a player from Switzerland in the first game with his opponent winning on 3-0 score. Later that evening Nathan played against a French opponent in what was another tough game which Nathan won 3-1. He then met up against another lad from Switzerland and with Nathan playing some great squash he got his second win of the tournament. He then went on to face a Galway player in a very tough and tight game with the Galway man winning 3-2. Nathan played in his last game against a Dublin player with the boys playing for 19th/20th place in what was another fantastic game of squash with the skill and movement unreal. The game went all the way with Nathan coming out on top with a score of 3-2. It was a fantastic weekend for Nathan indeed finishing 19th out of 32 and winning 3 out of 5 very tough games. Well done again Nathan.

BIRTHDAY GIRL

Special birthday wishes go out to local girl Courtney Burke of The Mills Freshford who celebrated her 21st birthday last weekend. Courtney marked her special birthday at a party with family and friends in Kavanagh’s Bar on Saturday night last.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Ann Burke Goodview, Freshford and all her family on the death last week of her brother Jimmy Hurley late of Kilkenny Road, Castlecomer and formerly of Byrnesgrove, Ballyragget. Funeral mass took place in St. Patricks Church, Ballyragget followed by burial in the Parish Cemetery Castlecomer.

FLOODS

Some areas of Freshford saw floods again last week after days of heavy rain. Despite flood relief been announced for several areas including Freshford some time ago no works have been done to date and floods were seen on the Urlingford Road, Woodview and Buncrussia street and Moate Road.

GAA

Football; St Lachtains U16 footballers.defeated Thomastown in the first round of the Roinn B Championship recently on a score of 3-11 to 3-8

AGM

St. Lachtains GAA club will hold their AGM on December 4th at the Clubrooms at 8pm. After a very successful year on the playing field with the Juniors winning the County final and going on to win the All Ireland final in January last.

SPLIT THE POT

The proceeds for the November split the pot will go to Prague House. Last week’s winner was Katie Mae Walsh who won €100. Tickets just €2 each and are available in all local businesses and pubs. Please support this worthy cause.

DARTS

Freshford and District League held their AGM recently and the following officers were elected. Chairperson JP Kavanagh, Secretary Darren Burke Treasurer –Shane Pollard. The start of the darts season will be starting very shortly.

SAFETY FIRST

The recent development of a car park at Freshford Cemetery is a most welcome project for people wishing to visit the graves of their loved ones. Open every day it will facilitate safe entry and exiting for all who wish to park there. Local Cllr Michael McCarthy says he is pleased to see the project through to fruition and he thanked the Municipal Engineer and all who contributed to the timely delivery of the long awaited car park. A huge thankyou was paid to Liam and Ann Deacon for their generous gift of the site

OUTREACH CENTRE

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

BRIDGE

Freshford Bridge club resumed recently in Threecastles Hall and will continue each week at 7.00pm. New members are very welcome. If you are interested in learning how to play bridge you are most welcome to attend these classes and for further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 if you are interested.

SOCCER

Freshford Town junior side were beaten by a strong Freebooters B side on Sunday last on a score of 3-2. All the schoolboys and schoolgirls games were called off due to the weather and pitch conditions. Freshford Town academy training resumed recently and continues each Saturday at Woodview at 9.30am. U5 to U7s. You can contact any Committee member or coach for more information or through the clubs social media pages

LAST MAN STANDING

Last man standing started on Saturday 8th November with winner receiving €500. Just 10e to enter, contact any committee member for to enter

FOROIGE

Freshford foroige youth club resumed recently and will continue each Monday evening. They are hoping to welcome new members along with welcoming back past members.

SAUNA

The new sauna which is up and running at the Millennium Park since August and has been very busy. The new facility is still open and you can book online your 40mins session at very reasonable rates.

FUNDING

Cllr Michael McCarthy welcomed 40k funding for the loop walk in Freshford recently. The funding

under the ORIS scheme will go towards upgrade and enhancement works for the facility which is used frequently by the young and not so young. Great credit is due to the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council for their interest, involvement and delivery of the funding according to Cllr McCarthy.

PARISH NEWS

Mass times have been rescheduled for Freshford Tullaroan and Ballycallan. Saturday evening- Killaloe -6pm Tullaroan 730pm. Sunday – Ballycallan 9.30am Freshford 11am. Killaloe, Tulla and Kilmanagh will share the 6pm Mass on a 1, 2, 3 basis. Weekly masses started from 15th Sept ae Monday 9.30am Kilmanagh, Tuesday and Friday –Freshford -9.30am and Thursday –Tullaroan at 9.30am.

RADIO

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

REMEMBRANCE MASS

A Mass of remembrance will be offered on Tuesday 25th November at 7.30pm in our local church. For all our beloved deceased whose names we recall and place before the altar, and remember in a special way all those who died during the past year. A candle will be lit for them which family members will be invited to take home with them and all are invited to come along and join in this special remembrance as we honour and remember our beloved dead. The parish newsletter is available on their website every week, any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during hours of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours Mass Cards are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla.

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

CHOIR

Freshford Parish choir resumed recently after their summer break. New members are most welcome

ALTAR SERVERS

Altar servers are now being recruited to serve in our two churches. Applications are open to children who have received their first holy communion (3rd class upwards) and applications forms are available in the church or by contacting the school. Those interested are asked to fill out the form and return it to the parish office. Altar servers are supervised by parents and supported by parish safeguarding reps.

TIDY TOWNS

Freshford Tidy Town committee were very happy to announce that their marks were up in the Tidy Towns competition this year which is wonderful and much thanks and credit goes to the fantastic volunteers who met each Wednesday evening in the village during the summer time and would love to see more people come on board .

CAFE

LOOP

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 meet a friend for a chat and a cup of tea or coffee and some lovely homemade food. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities. The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

MABS

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

BENNETTSBRIDGE

ART GROUP

Art Group Members are busily preparing for the Annual Christmas Fest which will be held in the Community Hall on Sunday, 30th November from 11 till 5pm. The event has established itself as a favourite seasonal happening and attracting great support from parishioners. The usual Christmas Decorations, hand painted Christmas Tree ornaments, knitted items and table decorations. Original paintings will be for sale and could solve your Christmas present for that special person in your life.

REMINDER

Christmas Cards produced by the Art Group are now in the local shops with some new additions. As usual the cards contain artwork of members and feature many local scenes. This year the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team will share in the proceeds.

SALE OF WORK

Thanks to all who supported the Stella Carroll School of Dancing Sale of Work last Sunday in the Community Centre after mass. Your support for this worthy venture was much appreciated.

WEEKDAY MASSES

Wednesday and Friday mornings 10.30 am.

NOVEMBER OFFERINGS

November Offering envelopes have been distributed. Please return your envelopes with names of family members you wish to be included in masses during November.

CONFIRMATION 2026

Confirmation will be held in Bennettsbridge on March 22nd, 2026. Parents have been enlisted to help with preparations. An enrolment mass will be held this Sunday, 30th November.

CONGRATULATIONS

Congratulations to Bishop Niall Coll on his appointment as Bishop to his home diocese of Raphoe in Donegal. Bishop Coll made a great impression on the people of Ossory during his time here and his departure is regretted.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Paudie Lannon and family on the death of Paudie’s mother, Josie Lannon, nee Grace, 26, Dangan Terrace, Thomastown, who passed away at her home last week in her 92nd year. She will be sadly missed by her loving family, Maureen (O’Brien), Paudie, Helen (Brennan), Willie, Annette (Whelan), Ger, Deirdre (O’Keeffe), sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brother Percy, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends. Josie is predeceased by her husband Jim, parents, Bill and Molly Grace, sister, Ellen and brothers, Jim, Paddy, William and John. Josie lay in repose at her home with rosary and vigil prayers recited. The removal took place to the Church of the Assumption, Thomastown where Requiem Mass was celebrated by Rev Frank Purcell. Family members took part in the Liturgy. Interment took place in St Mary’s New Cemetery, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny.

GATHERING GROUP

The Gathering Group continues each Wednesday with the usual activities. Members are looking forward to a busy few weeks coming up to Christmas. The trip to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre will take place on Wednesday 26th November and the Christmas Dinner has been confirmed for the Orchard Restaurant, Kilkenny, taking place on Wednesday, 10th December.

MENS SHED

The Crafted Cafe was the venue chosen by the Mens Shed for a special celebration to mark the 90th Birthday of Kieran Power, Barronsland. Gail and her team looked after Kieran and his friends providing the best of everything for the occasion. A very enjoyable afternoon was had by one and all especially the “Birthday Boy”.

LOTTO

There was no winner of the Jackpot last week. The numbers drawn were, 2, 7, 13, 20.The consolation prizes, Breda Cleere, The Ring, Suzie, ℅ Fr Duggan, Gerry Tyrrell, Stroan, C and C ℅ Marie Dunne, Trisha Keogh, Hillview.

AGM 2025

The 2025 AGM will take place this Saturday, November 22nd in the clubhouse at 8 pm. All members are urged to attend as we look forward to 2026.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN

The Pitch signage campaign continues to attract new businesses. Many thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far. If interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey. Some new signs have been added in the past couple of weeks with room still available.

O’NEILL’S CLUB SHOP

A club jacket has been added to the range of club gear in the online shop. With Christmas on the horizon some club gear would make the perfect gift. To check out the full range go to the O’Neill’s website and simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box to see all the bridge items for sale.

SPLIT THE POT

The next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Thanks again for the support.

BÓRD

NA ÓG TABLE QUIZ

A fundraising table quiz for Bórd na NÓg will be held in O’Donnell’s this evening, Friday November 21st at 8.30. All support greatly appreciated. Refreshments included so all welcome for what is always a good night.

GOWRAN

GOWRAN

AC

Well done to all the athletes who braved the flood waters in Nuenna for the County B’s Even Age and O45 Masters. Tom and Con had a great run in the Boys U10 finishing in 6th for Tom and 13th for Con. Emma Hayden ran a super run up in age in the U12 girls race to finish 11th in a highly competitive fast race. Cian Shortall ran an excellent race in the U12’s finishing in 2nd place, Jack Keyes was next home in 13th, with Harry O’Regan 17th and Conor Maher in 20th. The boys team was unlucky and just missed out on a medal by 1 point in the team event. Jay Pollock and Oscar Langton were our athletes in the Boys U14 with Jay finishing 5th and Oscar in 7th, great running from both boys. The Men’s O45 were very successful winning 1st team home with Marty in 5th, Adrian Cunningham in 6th and Lyndon Barcoe in 11th to take first team on 22 points. Congrats to everyone on great running.

GOWRAN PANTO

Gowran Panto is on its way back with Cinderella, coming February 2026. Mark your diary. Director: Peter Madden. Musical Director: Rachel Leydon. Choreographer: Rachel Bawle

GOWRAN ON THE MOVE

Gowran Playground is open and buzzing with lifebut there’s still a little hill left to climb. There’s €28,000 left to pay off before we can finalise this stage of the project and move onto the next. Playing Split the Pot each week (now online!) is a simple way to help repay this loan and to further develop the community hub. Thanks for your continued support. Link below for our online split the pot. https://www.facebook.com/ share/p/1DMD6kHpyr/

KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Kilkenny Country Music Festival 2026 will take place on Sunday, July 12th with headliner DEREK RYAN! Get ready for a night of sing-alongs, toe-tappin’ tunes, and unstoppable energy as Derek brings his biggest hits — “Hold On to Your Hat,” “God’s Plan,” “Dreamers and Believers” and SO many more — to the heart of Kilkenny!

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

CUSHENDALE WOOLLEN MILLS

We were honoured to have Patrick and the team from Symbio Studios, all the way from the US, visit our mill to document the time-honoured techniques that shape everything we do. Their beautiful visuals capture the essence of what we do so well; it’s genuinely humbling every time we watch it. We’re so thankful to be able to share this with you and continue sharing our craft with you. You can watch the whole video at made with love artisans Youtube channel.

WOMEN’S SHED

Weight Resistant Over 50’s Class. Our next 4 week block starts November 21st to December 12th at €30, you must be a shed member to attend, new members are always welcome. We still have some places available if you wish to book your spot. Conor the instructor is really informative and encouraging and makes the class fun and accessible for all.

HIGHVIEW

Massive congratulations to our three U12 Boys: Charlie Walsh, Shane Nolan and Howard Buggy who have made the U12 Kilkenny Development Squads for the year ahead. A huge individual achievement for each of the boys.

ROWING CLUB

Get Going Get Rowing. We here at the club were delighted to host the Get Going Get Rowing program this week. TY Students from Borris College and Duiske College attended the course, where they learned all about rowing and coaching. Now they have the skills to go back to their schools and coach younger students. Thank you so much get rowing for providing this course to these students, it is a brilliant opportunity.

GAA

Our U8s and U10s were treated to an end of season party to show appreciation for the fantastic effort they have put in all season. Thanks to the parents for getting the boys to their training sessions / games and for being great supporters. None of this would be possible without the invaluable assistance we get from the coaches and mentors so many thanks to them for the time and commitment they put into the development of the players.

We were also very lucky to have Ellen Meagher, Kilkenny County Board Games Promotion Officer, during the year to help with coaching and skill development. Thanks also to Ellen for coming on the night to present certificates to all the players. The boys have given so much all year and it’s great to see their skills continuously improving. We look forward to seeing them again for the next season.

WOMEN’S SHED ENROLMENT

Attention Members:- Our enrolment for 2025/2026 membership and insurance contribution is now due. This year the fee is €10, and is due now. If you wish to continue being an active member which covers you by our insurance and includes you in our whatsapp group texts please renew your contribution. Payment can be dropped into one of our weekly meetings on Tuesday evening or Thursday morning. And of course new members are always welcome, please spread the word

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

BARROW RANGERS

ANTIQUE AUCTION

An antique auction will take place on Monday 24th November. Suitable items are now accepted. Further information 087 256 9496 for further details.

BADMINTON

The Barrow Badminton Club welcomes new members to its weekly meeting on Thursday evening in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge.

The AGM of the Rangers Camogie Club will take place at 8pm this Thursday.

Best of luck to the Barrow Rangers hurling team who will play Davidstown Courtnacuddy in the AIB Leinster JHC semi-final in Castlecomer GAA grounds on Saturday 22nd November. Your support would be very welcome.

In the Duggan Steel U16 Roinn A Football Championship Semi Final Barrow Rangers narrowly lost to O`Loughlin Gaels (5-06 to 4-10).

Congratulations to the Barrow Rangers hurlers who beat Drumcullen - the Offaly Intermediate Champions in the Leinster Quarter Hurling Championship Final on Sunday 9th November. The score was Barrow Rangers, 2 -22, to Drumcullen, 1-13.

In the Roinn A Football Championship congratulations, also, to Under-16s Barrow Rangers Footballers who beat St. Martin’s in the Quarter Final. The score was 4-11 to 2-7.

Hard luck for the Under-22s of Barrow Rangers Camogie who lost to Carrickshock.

LOTTO

There was no jackpot winner for the lotto draw of 11th November. The match 3 winners (€200): Cora Leahy, Shane Dalton and Valerie Tully.

BRIDGE UNITED

Congratulations to Paddy Ryan (€100) for the lotto of 10th November.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL (PAULSTOWN)

A Christmas Festival will take place from 1-5pm on Sunday 7th December in Paulstown Community Hall. There are a handful of tables available still for local artists and crafters.

CHURCH SERVICES

Weekend masses on Saturday in Goresbridge at 7.30pm and on Sunday at 10am in Goresbridge and at 11.30a in Paulstown. Weekday masses at 10am in Paulstown on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday as well as at 10am on Wednesday in Goresbridge. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place each Tuesday from the end of mass in Paulstown to 5.45pm. November list of the dead may be obtained in the church porches of the parish. There will be a Remembrance mass for all who died in the last year at 7.30pm on 25th and 27th November in Paulstown and Goresbridge, respectively.

TALK THE TALK

Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) continues every Friday at 11am in the Goodly Barrow.

GORESBRIDGE TOWN TEAMS

The Goresbridge Town Team would like to acknowledge the support of Kilkenny County. Council for providing a €600 set up grant to the group.

LIGHT UP THE PARISH

The annual Light Up The Parish Vehicle Charity Run 2025 takes place on Saturday 13th December. Funds are raised for the Saplings School, Goresbridge. MAHER’S SHOP (GORESBRIDGE) Winter closing time at 20.30 commences this week.

MS CURRAN RIP

The death has taken place of Dolores (Dee) Curran, Pennsylvania USA and formerly of Lower Grange Goresbridge on the 30th September 2025 surrounded by her loving family and friends. Dolores was predeceased by her parents, Matt and Anne and her brother Pat. Dolores will be sadly missed by her loving brothers, Matthew and Sean, sisters-in-law, Loretta and Lisa, nephews, Matty, Kieran, Jack, Archie, Thomas, Dylan, Conor, and niece Emily, aunts, uncles, cousins, and her many wonderful friends and neighbours. A funeral mass for Ms Curran took place on 15th November in Goresbridge.

ADMISSIONS

Scoil Bhríde (Goresbridge) is open for admissions for the next school year. Information may be obtained from the school office each morning (phone 059 9775168). Scoil Bhríde (Paulstown) is open for admissions for the next school year. Information may be obtained from the school office (059 9726149) or through the school website www. paulstownns.ie

A jolly Christmas jumper sale will take place on Friday 28th November by the parents of the school for fundraising.

SENIOR CITIZENS CHRISTMAS GATHERING

A Senior Citizens Christmas Gathering will take place on Saturday 14th December in Gowran Park from 3-6pm. Book with Anne Marie 087 9610027 before 7th December.

SPLIT THE POT

The split the pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results of the lotto draw for 2nd November were: 1The Brannach (€100) 2. Muireann O’Neill (€20) and 3. Brigid Barcoe (€20).

STROKE SUPPORT

Kilkenny/Carlow Stroke Support Groups meet once a month. The Kilkenny group meet the last Friday of the month, at The Tuiscint day services meeting room, at St. Canices Hospital Complex, 2.15–4pm. The Carlow group meet the second Friday of the month at St. Dympna’s Hospital, Carlow 2.15–4pm. Group meetings are open to Stroke survivors and carers. They are supportive, informative with guest speakers attending. They are social & help survivors overcome isolation and loneliness. Further information: Lynda 087 7811469.

TAR ISTEACH

Tar Isteach is looking for good quality bric a brac, household items, it comes in and goes out twice as fast - also good quality men’s clothes and handbags.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

SANTA VISIT

Santa comes to Mackeys Gathabawn on Sunday 30th November from 5pm. Santa will be raising funds in

Tom Healy

welcome. For details or to sign up, contact P.J. at 087 674 8376.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

The Town Team will present their annual Festival of Lights on Sunday December 7th at 5pm. Children will assemble in the church car park where they will be entertained by D.J. Michael Glendon, then there will be a parade of light led by Adam McCarthy down to the Square. Rosettes, blessed by Fr. O’Gorman will be placed on the Remembrance Tree followed by the turning on of the Village Lights by Adam McCarthy. The children and parents will then have an opportunity to meet Santa at St. Mary’s Hall where there will be tea and snacks available. Donations on the night will be presented to Santa for Temple St. Hospital.

SPA UNITED AFC

Unfortunately due to the bad weather there was only one game last weekend the U15 girls league division 1 Spa 4 Kilkenny Utd 0. Many thanks from the club to John O’Sullivan, Chartered Accountant for his sponsorship of a set of jerseys for the U15 boys team and their manager Ramie Moriarty.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers 1,12,24,28. There was no jackpot winner, but Martin Quinlan was the one who took away a match 3 win, well done Martin. Be in to win.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I.

Free L.T.I. Course, which includes Driving Theory/Driving lessons starting soon, anyone interested in applying call or drop in to the Centre.

SAVE THE DATE

Knitting and Crochet Group Christmas Fair Friday 5th December 2025 at 11am.

MILL YOUTH PROJECT

The youth project continues on Wednesday evenings: Age 8 – 12yrs. 5pm – 6.30pm, all welcome.

SOME OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE AT THE CENTRE.

Senior Alert Alarms. Clothes Donations. Youth Club. Allotments. Cois Nore Advice Clinic. General Counselling Available. Adult and Teens. Play Therapy, young people Age 4 +. For more information, contact us on 056-8838466.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Our Active Retirement Group meet every Thursday from 2pm – 4pm. New members welcome.

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO

On November 10th the numbers drawn were 1, 8, 20, 29 bonus number 15. There was one match three winner, Ann Norton. The five lucky dips of €20 each: M. Quinlan, Philip O’Dwyer, Tuesday Club, N. Bambrick, Kathleen Broderick. Promoters prize: Mary Mac’s.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

November 16 winner of Split the Pot was Paul Minogue and Caroline Butler who received €1,000. Congrats on behalf of Urlingford NS Parents’ Council Association. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut 086 3799582. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Urlingford National School Parents’ Council Association. Please support.

GRAINE CARDS

The progressive 25 card game continuein Graine hall every Wednesday at 8pm. All are welcome.

URLINGFORD NEWS

Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

THE ROSARY

The Rosary will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Saturday before 6pm Mass.

CEMETERY ROSARY

Rosary will be recited every Sunday in November at the Grotto in Glengoole at 12 noon, Boulick at 1pm, Ballinalacken Cemetery at 3pm and Fennor at 2pm.

YOUTH 2000: Munster Day Retreat for ages 16-35 in St. Patrick’s Campus, Thurles on Saturday 29th November from 9.30am to 6.30pm. Registration from 8.45am.

CHRISTMAS PARTY

MFRC Senior Social Christmas Party will take place on Wednesday 10th December 1-5pm. Cost €10. Dinner followed by live music and entertainment, visit from Santa and a very special guest. Booking essential contact Alice Teehan 052-9157992/083-1014313

400 CLUB DRAW

A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the 400 club draw in support of the Gortnahoe Glengoole parish. The new draw commenced last night the 18th November. A sincere thanks to the promoters and all who bought tickets for the draw for the next 12 months. Best of luck to everyone.

MINDING YOUR WELLBEING

A 6 week programme to support mental health and wellbeing for older adults, will take place in The Millenium Family Resource Centre, Glengoole. Started Thursday 30th October 11.30-1pm. It’s free of charge with a light lunch provided on the day. Booking is essential, please contact 052-9157992.

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL

Glengoole Christmas Festival will take place on Saturday 29th November. Raffle includes signed Tipperary jersey

SPIN CLASSES

Spin Classes are held in Gortnahoe Community Hall on Wednesday 9.30am - Body Sculpt, Thursday 5.30pm & 6.15pm - Spin. See notice in the hall.

IN OUR HANDS

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

PILATES WITH RUTH

Pilate classes continues in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 7pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the bingo last Saturday. We had a full hall and it was great to see some extra people coming from the parish.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE CAMOGIE CLUB

On behalf of Gortnahoe Glengoole Camogie Club, we would like to say a massive thank you to all who supported our fundraiser on Saturday night. The night was a huge success and we couldn’t have done it without the generosity of you all. Huge thank you goes to our Camogie Committee for their efforts on the night, as well as throughout the year. We couldn’t do it without you. Final figures of the fundraiser will be announced at our AGM Friday 21st November at 7.30pm. Thank you to our race sponsors, programme sponsors and to anyone who sponsored a prize. Your unwavering support and generosity doesn’t go unnoticed and we are very grateful. Thank you to Michelle and everyone at Thurles Greyhound Stadium for your professionalism and facilities. Thank you to John McGrath & David Nolan for spending your time with us and taking photos and presenting medals. Sincere thank you to anyone who purchased a ticket for our Buster Draw and Raffle. Well done to the lucky winners and we hope you enjoy your prizes. BUSTER

DRAW 1st Prize €500- Adrian Maher (St Anne’s Terrace)

2nd Prize €200- Roxanne Treacy (S/O Naoimi Treacy)

3rd Prize €100 Voucher for Dunnes- David Millea (S/O Tirlan)

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW

Gortnahoe Community Hall are holding their Christmas draw on Sunday 21st December in Gortnahoe

Hall. Further details of prizes and the distribution of tickets will follow in the coming weeks. The Christmas Draw is an important fundraiser for the upkeep of the Community Hall.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Michael Bartley who won €164 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for November is in aid of the Christmas lights for Gortnahoe. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CONAHY

CAMOGIE

The under-22 camogie girls will face St. Brigid’s in the county semi-final on this Sunday, November 23rd at 11.00 a.m., with the venue to be confirmed. Best of luck to all involved.

FOOTBALL

The under-16 footballers lost out to Railyard in the Duggan Steel Roinn C county final on Sunday afternoon last in Jenkinstown. The visitors were the stronger side for the vast majority of the game, but Conahy were able to stay in touch with goals in each half from Sam Connellan and a Billy Rowe penalty. But Railyard were still too strong in the end, and won out on a 0-13 to 2-2 score line. Hard luck to all the boys involved who gave all they could for the hour.

GAA AND CAMOGIE AGM

The AGM of Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club will take place on Friday, November 28th, at 8.00 p.m. in Conahy Shamrocks Clubhouse. All members are invited to attend.

CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 10, 20 and 40. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prizes were Kevin Healy, Tommy and Sean Wallace, Jim and Glenda O’Reilly, Helen Molloy and Pauline Hennessy. The promoter prize winners were Helen Cahill, Shay Healy and Kay Phelan. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS

Afternoon Adult Book Club - This month our afternoon book club has chosen to read “Where’d you go Bernadette” by Maria Semple. Copies of this book are currently available at the desk, so why not pick up a copy and join us for a lively discussion on Tuesday, November 25th from 2.30 to 3.30. Phone (056) 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary. ie to join up.

Evening Adult Book Club - If afternoons don’t suit why not join our evening book club. This month we are reading “What we talk about when we talk about love” by Raymond Carver. If you would like to meet fellow readers, enjoy new book recommendations and explore new authors then do join us on Tuesday, November 25th from 6.30 to 7.30. Phone (056) 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary. ie to join up.

Are you a writer looking to connect with like-minded individuals? We are hoping to form a new Creative Writers group at Castlecomer Library. This is a wonderful opportunity to share your passion for writing, exchange ideas and support one another in your creative endeavours. Whether you’re a season writer or just starting out. All skill levels are welcome! If you are interested please contact the library on (056) 4440561.

My Open Library - Do you know about My Open Library service available at Castlecomer Library? This service allows people to access the library 7 days a week, 365 days a year! This might suit families who wish to use the Library outside of staffed hours. If you are looking for a quiet place to study in the evenings or wish to bring the kids to the library at the weekend, you can register for a My Open Library card. Anyone who wishes to use this service is required to complete an induction session with a staff member. To book your induction session, phone (056) 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie

PROGRESSIVE

25’S

Progressive 25 cards continue in Conahy Shamrocks Clubhouse on this Sunday evening, November 23rd at 8.00 p.m. All are welcome.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET

BISHOP NIALL COLL

Best wishes to Bishop Niall as he returns back home to his native Donegal. Thanks from our community for your friendship and guidance during the past three years. May the Lord bless you in the years ahead.

MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH

Hugginstown: Monday, 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. Friday 21st. Feast of The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Saturday 22nd. Feast of St. Cecilia

PRAY FOR

Months Mind Masses Nuala Donovan, Lawcus Fields, Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 22nd. November at 6.30p.m. Walter Broderick, Croan, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 22nd. November at 8.00p.m. Anniversary Mass next Weekend: Bill and Nellie Barron, Croan, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 23rd. November at 10.00a,m.

ROTA (FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING)

Reader, Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tom King. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy, Sunday 10.00a.m Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Teresa Broderick; Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Foran.

TRAINING FOR KILKENNY VOLUNTEERS

Upcoming Training for Kilkenny Volunteers will be held on Thursday 20th. November 2025 in St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall, Kilkenny, R95 VK7X. Time: 10:00a.m. to 4:00p.m. To sign up please contact info@ volunteerkilkenny.ie

HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY

One of the Homes in Hugginstown has become vacant. If anyone in the Community would like to receive an application form and apply for the home please contact. The Secretary, Lily Burke, Croan, Dunamaggan, Co. Kilkenny.

NOVEMBER OFFERINGS 2025:

November Offerings Envelopes 2025 are available at the Church Porch. Your contribution can be left into the Collection Boxes at the Churches or you may donate directly – Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D).

PARISH CONTRIBUTIONS

An Extra Collection will be taken up on next weekend after all Masses in aid of Sick and Retired Priests of the Diocese of Ossory.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 10th. November 2025. Numbers: 29; 20; 16; 28. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Anthony Walsh, Kilkeasy, Darren Silke, Hugginstown, James Irish, Hugginstown. Alice Nolan, Conahy. Lily Burke, Croan. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers):Tommy Hoyne; Tommy Murphy; Anne Power.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A Lecture on “The Irish Legal System before and since Independence” will be given by Thomas Teehan (Retired Judge) on Thursday, 27th. November 2025 at 8.00p.m. Venue: Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church)

“ANAM CARA”

Anam Cara will be hosting an Online Bereavement Information Evening on Thursday 20th. of November at 7.00p.m. for bereaved parents. Niamh Fitzpatrick will be the guest speak for the evening, bringing together her own personal experience of grief and her professional expertise as a psychotherapist. This session may be especially beneficial for parents seeking to understand their children’s unique perspectives on grief, and those navigating traumatic or sudden losses. All Parents are also invited to register: Contact: Services Support Administrator, Telephone: 01 404 5378 Email: i.wiessner@anamcara.ie.

CARRICKSHOCK G.A.A.

The Club A.G.M. is scheduled for Friday 28th November at 7:30 p.m. in the Club Rooms, Hugginstown. We invite all members and those interested in getting involved in the club to attend.

Shamrocks look to un-Laois power against CloughBallacolla

Leinster final berth awaits Sunday’s winners

weekend will see them run out at Croke Park to contest this season’s provincial final, but for now, neither club will be looking beyond Sunday’s battle on Noreside.

These two foes clashed in the Leinster decider in 2021, where the O’Moore County side were blown away by a Shamrocks team that had eyes on a bigger prize that season.

That was Clough-Ballacolla’s first appearance in the provincial final and manager Willie Hyland will hope that his outfit will give a better account of themselves in UPMC Nowlan Park on Sunday. The Tinnaragh based side have been regular participants in the Leinster competition and secured a fifth county title in six years when they defeated Camross at Laois Hire O’Moore Park by 6 points in the final

In the group stages of the Laois Shopping Centre Senior Hurling Championship, Hyland’s charges chalked up three wins, with victories over Castletown, Borris In Ossory Kilcotton and The Harps, while they came up short against eventual finalists; Camross GAA Club and Rathdowney Errill. Having topped

their group following that vital win over The Harps, Clough-Ballacolla were inactive for a month, before taking to the field against Ballinakill in the first of the Laois senior semifinal double bill at Laois Hire O’Moore Park. Cha Dwyer had inspired his side to a halftime lead, but the accuracy of Stephen Bergin saw the holders gain parity and see the game go to extra time. It was here that the experience of Hyland’s men showed and they would outscore their opponents 1-9 to 0-3 in that period to reach another county final. Their 7-point defeat to Camross would be avenged on county final day, and Clough-Ballacolla picked a good time to put in their best performance of the season to date to notch their thirteenth Bob O’Keefe Cup to cement their dominance in the O’Moore County. Star of the show for much of the campaign to date and in the county final itself was Stephen Bergin, who hit an eye-catching 1-13 to help his side to that 5th title in six years. The attacking star has had to shoulder more responsibility in the absence of the legendary Stephen ‘Picky’ Maher; and he has shone in

the limelight. His county final tally had 0-9 from placed balls and an impressive 1-4 from play as Camross were put to the sword. As his manager alluded to after the county final win,” Steve is one of the cleverest players I’ve ever played with or managed. He’s an absolute assassin. He’s some man to get a goal”. Bergin has had plenty of support round him this season in the Clough-Ballacolla attack, including the evergreen Willie Dunphy, who like Bergin, has caused many problems for opposition defences. The bustling full forward raised a green flag in the decider and notched 1-1 in the extra time win over Ballinakill and collected his eighth winners medal in eleven county final appearances, including replays. Two others that have been ticking along nicely for the Laois side are Jordan Walshe and Cillian Dunne, the former hitting 0-3 in the win over Camross, while Dunne hit 1-8 in their semifinal victory.

Captain and midfield general Aidan Corby has been a regular fixture for both club and county for years. His driving presence has been key to Clough-Ballacolla’s dominance over

club season. It will be interesting to see if Darragh Corcoran has shaken off the issue that saw the dynamic half-back miss the win over the Faithful County side. Darragh brings so much to this Shamrocks side and Henry will hope that he is available come Sunday. Eoin Cody was rightly given the POTM award following his outstanding performance over Kilcormac Killoughey, not only did the former 2-time young hurler of the year notch 0-5, but his all-action non-stop work ethic and exceptional ball-winning provided the platform for his side to get the victory and progress to the Leinster semifinal stage. The Noresiders also had a faultless display including his placed ball accuracy from TJ, alongside hard-working shifts from Liam Barron and Niall Shortall. Paddy Mullen also battled well and chipped in with 2 points, and his physical presence will be required against Sunday’s visitors. The Holden Plant Rentals sponsored side hit ten wide’s across the 60 add minutes in the provincial last eight clash, only

three of these coming after the short whistle as Henry’s troops were much more clinical.

Experienced defensive duo, Joey Holden and Richie Reid have both been in great form since the summer and will have key roles again when Clough-Ballacolla roll into town this weekend. Evan Shefflin should be a little fitter and sharper having had the last fortnight to get himself right, while Killian Corcoran is reveling at corner back and making the jersey his own. The expected battle between Joey and Willie Dunphy promises to be a cracker. The calmness of Dean Mason will be key as the netminder looks to stand tall in goal and minimise the need for green flag raising, also his restarts will help Shamrocks get on the front foot. The aim for Shamrocks will be to get over the line on familiar soil this weekend and then see what might lie await in the form of a provincial final appearance against the winners of St Martin’s (Wexford) and Naas (Kildare) who will face off in Chadwicks Wexford Park at the same time on Sunday. Ádh mór to all at the Shamrocks. Clough-Ballacolla – Road to AIB Leinster

Club SHC Semi-Final

the past number of seasons. His partnership with Cormac Hogan in the engine room won’t have gone unnoticed by the Shamrocks management team, and Ronan Corcoran and Eoin Kenneally will need to be ready for a battle in the middle third. This is an area of the pitch where Henry’s charges have fared quite well this season, and he will look for his side to win this battle and allow those ahead to ply their trade. Lee Cleere at centre back will look to anchor his sides defence while also troubling the scoreboard, should the opportunity present itself. Darren Maher will be minding the square and will have Diarmaid Conway and Joe Pearson flanking him; the latter did a brilliant job shackling Tomas (Mossy) Keyes in the final. Behind the defence is a talented netminder in the shape of Cathal Dunne, who was rightly recognised for his performances at intercounty level, with a spot on the McDonagh Cup team of the year. Wing back, Diarmaid Conway is another who received the same accolade, and he will relish his battles with a dangerous Shamrocks attacking unit.

Henry Shefflin, like his counterpart, will have been assessing the walking wounded and devising a plan for tackling the Laois sides’ challenge. Having secured a 21st county title with a superb win against O’Loughlin’s, the south Kilkenny side entertained Offaly champions, Kilcormac Killoughey in the Leinster quarter final clash where they put in a magnificent second half performance to earn a last four berth. Before the ugly scenes following the final whistle that marred the entertaining encounter, Adrian Mullen took a rather nasty belt from Offaly player Charlie Mitchell. the incident resulted in a broken thumb for the flame-haired stickman. It is believed that subsequently, Mullen has undergone surgery and is likely to miss at least the remainder of the provincial campaign. Mullen’s absence would be a huge blow to Shamrocks, as he was beginning to find his rhythm, following an injury plagued 2025. More responsibility will fall on the shoulders of TJ Reid and Eoin Cody in the attacking third, while Niall Shortall has looked lively during this

Noreside’s two other county champions are also in action this weekend. Saturday sees intermediate winners Danesfort take on Dublin champions Commercials in UPMC Nowlan Park, while junior winners Barrow Rangers will tackle Davidstown Courtnacuddy of Wexford in Castlecomer. Both games throw in at 1:30pm. We wish both sides well as they continue their provincial campaigns.

Comhghairdeas to the Dicksboro camogs who lifted the Leinster Senior Camogie crown with a 1-point victoryover Oulart The Ballagh, Ciara Phelan with the winning point for the Palmerstown outfit. Thoroughly deserved ladies!

Reid all about it! Richie will look to secure a final berth

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Full planning permission is sought by Declan and Clodagh McQuillan for the construction of a two-storey extension to the existing dwelling, demolition of existing extensions and outhouses, and all associated site works at Gorteen, Ballycallan, Co. Kilkenny R95H6W8.

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, Ms. Eavan Delaney intend to apply for permission to construct a part single storey, part two storey dwelling house, domestic garage, effluent treatment system and all associated site works at Russelstown, Attanagh Via Portlaoise 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 authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€ 20.00) within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY

COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Beauscandle Limited, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Permission, to retain indefinitely Marion House, JV4 House, Maryville House, Greenfields House, Millenium View House, Teach Muireann and Birchfield House for residential care use, ancillary Assembly/Sports Hall, internal roads, car parking and paved areas, footpaths, external lighting, landscaping, boundary fencing, foul and surface water drainage connections and all associated works at The St. Patrick’s Centre, Reviewfields, Kells Road, Kilkenny R95 AF38.

The development consists of works within the curtilage of two structures which are recorded on National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (NIAH Ref. No. 12401904 and 12401918).

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

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans

We, Gavin Lonergan and Michele Culliton intend to submit Significant Further Information to Kilkenny County Council subsequent to Planning Application Ref. Number 25/60607 for revised Site Plan and all associated site development works at Glendine, Kilkenny R95 HKC5. 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, Bill Doyle intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing extensions to the front and rear of existing dwelling house and all associated site development works at Friars Hill, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny R95 T2N9. 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, Mary Hoban wish to apply to above authority for permission for the following at No. 90 Larchfield, Kilkenny.

(a)Provision of new vehicular entrance from Public Road

(b)Associated Removal of Front boundary wall

(c)Associated Works

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: Mary Hoban

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, David Lyng and Simone Hurly, are applying for permission for the erection of a dwelling house and domestic garage/ store (modifications to plans approved under PLREF 2460298) and all associated site works at Kylemore, The Rower, Inistioge, 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 p.m. and 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Monday to Friday and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Byrne & McCabe Design Ltd, Architecture and Engineering Services (059 9725684).

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Blackwell Farm Ltd, Blackwell, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council permission to demolish existing storage shed and permission for developement of an unroofed slatted tank, an unroofed slatted tank and feeding area, concrete apron and and associated site works at Loughborren, Bennettsbridge, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 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 Dempsey Agri

Anniversaries of Tom and Kathleen Cody, Newpark Lower, Kilkenny.

“A great man and a great woman” They were also good people.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 30th November at 11.30am at St John’s Church.

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. E.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.D.

In loving memory of Sean and Julia Kennedy, late of Grovine, Waterford Road, Kilkenny.

Just a prayer from the family who loved you

Just a memory fond and true

In our hearts you will live forever

Because we thought the world of you Sadly missed by your son Colm and Family. XX

Anniversary Mass, Sunday November 23rd at 10.30am in St. Joseph’s Church, Foulkstown

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.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.

TOM CODY 29TH ANNIVERSARY

SEAN KENNEDY 9TH ANNIVERSARY

KATHLEEN CODY 28TH ANNIVERSARY

JULIA KENNEDY 8TH ANNIVERSARY