Kilkenny Observer 22nd July 2022

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Gum deal from Mayor ‘Living’ stones in Romania Chew on this: bin your Rocks that grow, walk and gum when your done even have babies  Page 6

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Taoiseach honours “wonderful friend” former FF TD Bobby Aylward FORMER Fianna Fáil TD Bobby Aylward has been remembered as a man who loved his family and his community to the core.

Mr Aylward (67) was described as “a presence fuelled with integrity, humour, courage, resilience and kindness” during his funeral mass at the All-Saints Church, Knock-

moylan, on Monday.

The former TD for Carlow and Kilkenny died on July 14 after a long illness.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin attended the funeral mass and told the congregation how he always received “honest and constructive advice” from Mr Aylward as a senior member of

Fianna Fáil and could always rely on his “wonderful, warm and good humour”.

Mr Martin described him as a “wonderful friend, a trusted colleague and a wise counsel”.

Speaking to KCLR FM, Carlow Kilkenny TD Jennifer Murnane O’Connor said he had a love of his area.

“I know myself the love of politics and love of his community and the GAA of course that Bobby had, he was always talking about South Kilkenny and Ballyhale in the Dail … he loved going home, when you were talking to him it was always about going home to his family, he was just a lovely, lovely

man.”

Chairman of the Oireachtas Finance Committee and Kilkenny TD John McGuinness expressed his sadness.

“Bobby was a fantastic public representative, a hard-working farmer and a tireless activist for the communities he represented in South Kilkenny and

beyond.

“While we may have fought hard elections, Bobby was a great colleague and a loyal lifelong member of Fianna Fáil.

“Thoughts and prayers with his family and friends at this sad time. Bobby will be sadly missed. May he RIP,” Mr McGuinness said.

Don’t bank on it, warns government SOCIAL welfare recipients in Kilkenny with KBC or Ulster Bank accounts have been urged by the Government to update their bank details as soon as possible.

The Government issued the warning to thousands of social welfare recipients in Kilkenny and across the country about the action they need to take to “avoid disruption” with their upcoming payments.

It comes as Ulster Bank and KBC Bank are leaving the Irish market, forcing customers to open accounts with other banks.

Those who receive the State Pension or Child Benefit payments into an Ulster Bank or KBC Bank account will need to make alternative arrangements for where their money goes.

This can be into an account with a different bank, a post office account or a credit union account.

A statement on Gov.ie, the Government’s platform for information and services, said, “If you get a social welfare payment such as Child Benefit or State Pension into an Ulster Bank or KBC Bank account, you will need to make arrange-

ments to have your payment paid into another bank, post office or credit union account.

To do this, the “easiest way”, according to the Government, is to use their online service through MyWelfare.ie.

“To avoid disruption to your social welfare payment, please update your details before closing your Ulster Bank or KBC Bank account,” the statement continued.

Despite the banks’ plan to move out of the Irish market, just 44% of their customers have opened new accounts with a different bank, according to research from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

Their research shows that 81% of KBC and Ulster Bank customers have the intention to make the move, but less than half have done so yet.

Ulster Bank customers were also more likely to have switched banks in comparison to KBC customers.

Of those who had opened new accounts, the majority of customers found that “moving direct debits and regular payments” was the biggest challenge they faced.

Winning smile

GOWRAN’S Jane Ellis, is congratulated by Lilly Byrne, for her brilliant victory at The Curragh last weekend.

The Red Mills Marketing Manager (originally from Dublin) beat the rest of the field to take home first place in the Corinthian Challenge charity race riding Takarengo, trained by Tom Mullins and owned by Mrs. Rita Byrne.

The Corinthian Challenge is a three-race series open to amateurs who want to fundraise for the Injured Jockey Fund.

Photo: Patrick Browne.

Read more: P4

Aslan postpones Ballykeefe gig due to singer’s ill health POPULAR Irish band Aslan has been forced to pull out of a planned gig at the Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre tomorrow (Saturday) due to lead singer Christy Dignam being advised against performing on medical EVERY FRIDAY

grounds.

The band and Dignam were due to perform to a sold-out audience. The gig has now been rescheduled to August 5.

The Crazy World singer has been battling ill health for nine

The Kilkenny

Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

years since first being diagnosed with amyloidosis, a rare blood disorder cancer, in 2013.

Martina Brennan, a venue spokesperson wished Dignam well adding that they were looking forward to welcoming

him and the band to Kilkenny next month.

The band is gearing up to play Dublin’s 3Arena on September 17 to celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Speaking to KCLR FM Mar-

tina said, “He had to be well enough to perform as well, you know, your health is your wealth as they say.

“We’re wishing him a very speedy recovery as well I might add because he loves perform-

ing and I know he wouldn’t be cancelling unless he really had to.”

Any fans who cannot attend on the new August date are asked to contact Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre.

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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News JANE Davis, now living in Gowran but originally hailing from Goatstown in Dublin achieved a lifetime ambition last weekend at The Curragh Racecourse.

The Red Mills Marketing Manager signed up for the Corinthian Challenge, a charity horse racing series of three races in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys some time ago. Following months of personal training, early mornings riding out before work and working with a coach to hone her riding skills on a simulator, her diligence was rewarded at The Curragh on Sunday. Jane won the opening race of the series in fine style aboard Takarengo trained by Tom Mullins and owned by Mrs. Rita Byrne.

The Corinthian Challenge is a three race series open to amateurs who want to fundraise in a unique way while enjoying the experience of a lifetime. Fourteen riders are participating in the challenge this year with two more races at Gowran Park and Leopardstown to look forward to.

Each rider sites a different reason for their participation, for some it simply offers the chance to experience the life of a professional jockey horse-racing at some of Ireland’s best racecourses.

For most participants the reasons are personal, many challengers have close connections to those who have benefitted from the charity over the years and want to give something back.

Jane Davis from Gowran rode Takrengo to victory in the Corinthian Challenge charity race at The Curragh on Sunday

Fairytale result for Gowran’s racing Jane The colourful mix of participants hail from Armagh to Kerry with interesting day jobs from insurance to engineering and even a member of An Garda Síochána taking part. Every rider brings a unique story to tell. Their commitment is substantial, in addition to training, riding out, getting race fit and

staying sound throughout the four-month series, each rider has been tasked with a fundraising target of €10,000.

Donations can be assigned to individual riders’ fundraising campaigns on the Corinthian Challenge online Just Giving platform.

After her win, an ecstatic Jane commented, “That was

amazing, it was like nothing I’ve ever experienced before in my whole entire life!”

No stranger to the industry having worked in horse racing all her professional life, from Horse Racing Ireland to Racecourse Management and now in her current role as Marketing Manager at Red Mills, she’s

achieved so much throughout her career.

Ruby Walsh, Irish Injured Jockeys Chairman said, “The Corinthian Challenge is Irish Injured Jockey’s major annual fundraising event and we are so grateful to all of those who take part, it is a major commitment and the funds they raise are vital to

our charity and all that we do here at Irish Injured Jockeys.

I am delighted for Jane today she rode a brilliant race and was undoubtedly a very worthy winner and well done to everyone who took part.”

Help raise Jane’s fundraising total at: www.justgiving. com/fundraising/Jane-Davis19

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Demand for free mental health services up almost 400% TURN2ME, a national mental health charity, has stated that free mental health services are absolutely vital, now more than ever, with the rising costs of living.

The charity stated an increased number of users reported feeling anxious about the rising cost of living, and that many users said the free Turn2Me mental health services have been a ‘lifeline’

to them during the pandemic.

Turn2Me stated the past two years have taken a toll on the nation’s mental health, with lockdowns, restricted social engagements, job insecurities and education disruptions. When lockdown measures eased, people then had to deal with the stresses of preparing for international conflicts, from the Russian attacks on Ukraine. The

Video aims to simplify local election system SEE Her Elected, the awardwinning Government funded project which aims to encourage women from rural areas to engage in local politics, has launched a new video to help explain how the Proportional Representation Single Transferable Voting system works in Ireland.

The video was commissioned by See Her Elected as part of their voter education series and as a direct response to feedback raised by women throughout rural Ireland taking part in the online SHESchool training. Produced by the Donegal based DNK Media Productions company, the video explains how the PR-STV voting system works and it features Dr Michelle Maher, SHE Programme Manager, Olivia Bushell, Assistant Deputy Returning Officer and Cllr Hazel Smyth Cathaoirleach of the Mullingar-Kinnegad Municipal District in Westmeath.

See Her Elected created this video to explain the complex voting system in Ireland to local election candidates and their campaign teams, but also to highlight to voters the importance of using their vote to create county councils that look just like them.

“We run free online training and workshops for women all over rural Ireland as part of our SHESchool which aims to encourage more women to engage in local politics. Many women raised

questions about the PR- STV voting system in Ireland and how exactly it worked in terms of preferences, transfers and how surpluses are distributed so we decided to make a video as part of our political education series to help explain how the system works. Transfers are key to winning an election particularly in local elections and it is not always as difficult as you may think to get elected as many candidates can be elected to a final seat on the ninth or tenth count with only a handful of votes separating them from their nearest rival and this video shows exactly how a count might progress,” explained Dr Michelle Maher, Programme Manager with See Her Elected.

The new video is currently available on all See Her Elected social media platforms and on the website www.seeherelected.ie/ videos “We hope that this video will be a great resource not just for women in rural Ireland but indeed for anyone who wants to fully understand how the PR-STV voting system works in Ireland. We are also planning to incorporate the use of the video as part of our schools’ roadshow whereby we bring a See Her Elected presentation to secondary schools around rural Ireland,” explained Mairead O’ Shea, Communications Manager with See Her Elected.

added stress of the rising cost of living has caused many people to feel anxious about the future.

Turn2Me offers free mental health services, including free counselling sessions, free support groups and a free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary. The charity said its services have been in huge demand since the pandemic began. At the height of the

pandemic, demand for its services increased by 386%.

“Economic changes cause heightened anxieties,” Fiona O’Malley, CEO of Turn2Me, said, “The rising cost of living is definitely something our users are concerned about.

We are delighted to be able to offer free professional mental health services, including free one-to-one counselling, free support groups and a

free ‘Thought Catcher’ mood diary. These free mental health services are absolutely vital, now more than ever, with the rising costs of living.

“The rising costs of living is very stressful, and something that impacts people in a real and tangible way. I would encourage anyone who is feeling anxious and needs mental health support to avail of Turn2Me’s free

services, which run 365 days a year.”

Turn2Me is encouraging anyone who is feeling anxious, depressed, isolated or overwhelmed to avail of its free mental health services on Turn2Me.ie. The charity also emphasised that two of its services, the Support Groups and the ‘Thought Catcher’ have no waiting lists and are available to use immediately.

Kilkenny COCO’s Environmental Awareness Officer Bernadette Moloney, hitches a lift in the GLT Eco Cab with Mayor of Kilkenny City, Cllr David Fitzgerald.

Photo: Vicky Comerford.

Sticky end for gum chewers THE Gum Litter Taskforce (GLT), roadshow visited Kilkenny City last week which saw the Mayor of Kilkenny City, Cllr David Fitzgerald shooting some hoops with the GLT crew on the Parade.

Cllr Fitzgerald said, “I welcome the Gum Litter Taskforce Street Crew to the Marble City, as it’s a terrific campaign which

has aided in the reduction of gum litter. Kilkenny City works hard to keep the Marble City litter-free, but chewing gum litter can be a nuisance, especially on the Parade, as chewing gum can impact the beautiful limestone pavement. I’m supportive of this campaign to encourage people to bin their chewing gum

responsibly.”

The Gum Litter Taskforce – a National Awareness Campaign to make gum litter an issue of the past – has led to a phenomenal shift in people’s attitude to gum litter across Ireland.

There has been a remarkable 70% reduction in chewing gum litter since the campaign began in 2007 – gum now accounts

for 8% of all litter in Ireland compared to over 26% in 2007.

Just over one in four of us (27%), claim never to have dropped gum, highlighting the continued importance of gum litter awareness campaigns to enact behavioural change, with 81% of those surveyed after the campaign now aware of the €150 fine.

New campaign aims to challenge negative stereotypes EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is once again challenging the negative stereotypes attached to Ireland and the Irish people, in its latest campaign, This Is Not Us. Following research for this campaign, EPIC has uncovered predictive search data which shows that many incorrect and misleading perceptions of the

Irish still prevail globally – the most common of which link the Irish to fighting, drinking, potatoes and holding grudges.

The This Is Not Us campaign aims to confront these perceptions head on by using them to visualise what a person would look like if they were true. The resulting imaginary character, Paddy McFlaherty, shows

just how misleading these stereotypes can be. Created using CGI and based entirely on perceptions, this character displays and embodies how, according to Google search trends, Irish stereotypes still exist – something which EPIC are hoping to change.

Patrick Greene, CEO and Museum Director of EPIC said of

the campaign, “This is not us’ is a challenge for the world to assess their assumptions about the Irish and evolve their perceptions beyond stereotypes.

As an experience that prides itself on delivering an authentic and true understanding of Ireland and its people, this is what we aim to do.”

EPIC shares how the Irish

have contributed to communities throughout the world and continue to do so, through exhibitions, education programs and digital engagement EPIC offers a fully interactive experience, which brings Irish history to life and allows visitors to discover what it really means to be Irish. ‘This is not us’ is not the first time that

EPIC has campaigned against stereotypical and clichéd depictions of the Irish. In 2019, the museum offered free tickets to visitors who handed in their plastic St Patrick’s Day merchandise at the door.

Visit https://epicchq.com/ for more information or search #EPICmuseum on your chosen social platform.

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News Opinion

Happy losers! I sincerely hope not

BY GERRY MORAN

July 17th 2022, I have never come home from an All Ireland hurling final, a final that Kilkenny lost, feeling so remarkably calm, so unperturbed, so indifferent to defeat if you will.

A new experience, for sure. An experience I am not happy with – which I shall get to shortly.

As someone who has been at every All Ireland hurling final, featuring Kilkenny, since 1963, when I sat on my mother’s knee, I have known many, too many, defeats (known many exciting and exhilarating victories also, I hasten to add) and those defeats upset me, depressed me, and at times even derailed me, as in put me off my food for a day or two (but not the drink) I vividly remember losing to Tipp, by a point, in the 1991 final (a flukey goal sealing the match for Tipp) and, literally, not being able to talk to my brother-in-law, who drove, all the way home. Even when we stopped off in the Fox & Goose for a much needed drink, we didn’t speak. Couldn’t speak.

Tipperary beating Kilkenny has that effect on the Kilkenny hurling psyche (as all Kilkenny supporters know) And a memory that still hurts is the 2004 All

Ireland when Cork stopped us in our tracks from winning the three-in-a-row in. That hurt terribly as I had brought my two daughters (13 and 11 respectively at the time) to their very first All Ireland and the pain of losing that game was doubled by the pain of seeing my young daughters suffer the loss. And that’s just a selection of the pain, and heartbreak, that yours truly has suffered at All Ireland Hurling Finals that Kilkenny has lost over the years.

And so to the All Ireland Hurling Final of 2022, a unique final in that it was played, for the first time ever, in the month of July (I may never get used to it) but a final far more unique, as far as I’m concerned, in that we, Kilkenny supporters, came home from the cauldron that is Croke Park, feeling fine, feeling okay about losing to Limerick! Home from the match I dropped into my local for a much needed drink – I was dehydrated, not just from the heat, but from defeat. The mood in the pub was upbeat, jubilant almost! ‘What’s all this?’ I said to a drinking buddy. ‘Where are the long faces, where’s the doom and gloom?’’Ah, we’re celebrating Limerick’s three-in-a-row, sure they were the better team and we only lost by two points and besides it wasn’t Tipp.’

Seems we were happy, almost, to have lost by just two points from a great team, the best team in the land! Oh my God,

we must never be happy to lose an All Ireland by two points.

No matter to whom. We must never be happy to lose an All Ireland by ONE point. We must never be happy to lose. Full stop.

What’s this the great American football coach, Vince Lombardi, said: ‘Show me a good loser, and I’ll show you a loser.’ This is how the rot sets in. The rot of complacency. The rot of losing.

The rot of defeat.

We, Kilkenny supporters, must never, ever, be happy, or content to lose an All Ireland final regardless of the numerous titles we have won ,36, and regardless of the fact that Limerick are trailing well behind with a mere 11 titles. Christ, let’s not get complacent about the fact that we ‘put it up’ to Limerick, that we ‘gave them a game, a good game’, that for a few brief moments we actually scared them, gave them ’squeaky bum time’, to quote that former Maestro of the Premiership, Alex Ferguson.

And I have no doubt in my mind that Brian Cody, our ‘Maestro’, would totally, completely, and utterly agree with me. Don’t talk to Brian Cody about being happy to have lost by just two points. Well, do if you dare but brace yourself for the steely stare he’ll give you; the stare of a man who abhors defeat and who will, to quote General McArthur, return. Return to winning ways, consigning ‘happy losing’ to where it belongs – the dunghill of defeat!

New Croí Cónaithe fund will help refurbish vacant properties, increase home ownership and revitalise communities in Kilkenny – John Paul Phelan A new Government fund called Croí Cónaithe will support bringing vacant and underused buildings in Kilkenny’s towns and villages back into residential use, according to Fine Gael TD, John Paul Phelan.

Deputy Phelan said, “A new €50 million Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund was announced by the government in recent days. This funding will be crucial to bringing vacant and underused buildings in Kilkenny towns and villages back into residential use.

“Fine Gael is working to create stronger safer communities and in Government we are prioritising programmes like Croí Cónaithe to achieve this. Many areas of towns and villages in Kilkenny are experiencing vacancy and dereliction and we want to breathe new life into these communities and ensure they are better places in which to live, to work and to raise families.

“The Scheme is set to benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal

private residence and become part of the community in the area. We are working to create vibrant town centres in Kilkenny once more.

“The Fund will be delivered through Kilkenny County Council who will provide a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to applications in areas where the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.

“A grant of up to €30,000 will be available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as a home before now.

“Where a property is derelict, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 will be available, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000. This can also be combined with the SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme that covers works of up to €26,750.

“It is intended that the Crói Cónaithe Fund will apply in all towns with a population of

over 400 people, and also to some smaller villages, which may not be defined towns or villages for the purposes of the CSO Census mapping but with sufficient provision of services and amenities.”

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Peter Burke, added, “Today’s new fund is a part of a suite of measures undertaken by the government to tackle vacancy.

It will be complemented by the upcoming Vacant Property Tax to help bring more properties back into use across the country.”

This Scheme is part of the Government’s Our Rural Future policy and the recently published Town Centre First policy, which aims to tackle vacancy and dereliction and breathe new life into our town centres. It also delivers on the ambition set out in Pathway 4 of Housing for All which aims to address vacancy and make efficient use of existing housing stock.

Further information will be available from the Vacant Homes Officer in each local authority.

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New €50m fund to refurbish vacant Kilkenny properties A NEW €50m fund will support bringing vacant and underused buildings in Kilkenny’s towns and villages back into residential use.

The Croí Cónaithe (Towns) scheme was launched recently by Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien TD, together with An Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

“Many areas of towns and villages face the blight of vacant properties, which, if brought back into use, could add real vibrancy to towns of all sizes across county Kilkenny,” the government said.

“This is a clear ambition of the government’s Our Rural Future policy and of the recently published Town Cen-

tre First policy, which aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe new life into our town centres.”

The scheme is set to benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence (own home) and become part of the community in the area.

This, the government

added, will further the aim to create town centres that function as viable, vibrant and attractive locations for people to live, work and visit.

The Fund will be delivered localy through Kilkenny COCO who will provide a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties, with priority given to applications in areas where

Local firms need to prepare for gender pay gap reporting IFAC, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm, is advising Kilkenny businesses impacted by the new gender pay gap regulations to make sure they are well prepared for the end-of-year reporting.

Mary McDonagh, Head of HR & Payroll Services at Ifac, said, “While this initially only affects public and private organisations with at least 250 employees, it will be rolled out further in the coming years. Companies that are affected by the new regulations need to start preparing now well ahead of the first reporting deadline at the end of the year.”

Last year, the Oireachtas enacted new legislation requiring specific organisations to publish information on their gender pay gap. It will be rolled out to companies with less than

the level of vacancy or dereliction is high.

A grant of up to €30,000 will be available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not been used as a home before now.

Where a property is derelict, a maximum top-up grant

amount of up to €20,000 will be available, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000. This can also be combined with the SEAI Better Energy Home Scheme that covers works of up to €26,750. For further information contact the Vacant Homes Officer Kilkenny COCO.

Kilkenny harper in Harps Alive Festival

150 employees in 2024 and companies with less than 50 employees in 2025.

Eurostat data published earlier this year suggests that in 2020 the average EU gender pay gap was 13%.

This means that women earn on average 13% less per hour than men; however, there are significant differences across the member states. In Ireland, the gap is thought to be slightly below the EU average.

Under equality legislation, employers must provide equal pay to men and women if their work is the same or broadly similar.

However, a company providing equal pay to its employees can still have a gender pay gap if there is a percentage difference between the average hourly earnings of the men and women it employs. Visit ifac. ie for more information.

KILKENNY based harper Siobhán Armstrong joined harpers from all over Ireland for the Harps Alive An Chruit Bheo Harps Leevin festival.

Siobhán, originally from Dublin, who is well known as one of Europe's foremost historical harpists performed at From Then To Now: 230 Years a-Harping at First Presbyterian Church in Belfast last Saturday.

The 2022 Harps Alive An Chruit Bheo Harps Leevin festival brought together harpers and historians from throughout the island in celebration of the 230th anniversary of the assembly of harpers in Belfast, while also serving as a recognition to the renowned works of organist and collector Edward Bunting.

Having already opened with events in Magilligan and Mussenden Templatethe festival represented five days filled with music, history and heritage. The majority of the festival takes place across a number of sites in Belfast concluding in Dublin on July 24.

Siobhan performed a concert with Doimnic Mac Giolla Bhríde, the prizewinning singer from Donegal, presenting beautiful and evocative old songs,

“many of which have not been sung for 200 years or more,” she said.

Along with harper Laoise Kelly, a traditional Irish music composer and winner of the 2020 Musician of the Year Award, the trio revisited some of the ancient tunes collected by musician and folk music collector Edward Bunting two centuries ago. Additionally, 13 younger harpers performed their favourite tunes from Bunting’s famous collection.

Siobhán’s performance was the 'LISTEN' part of an early-Irish-harp Discovery Day presented at the festival

by The Historical Harp Society of Ireland.

The aim of the concert was to transport the audience back to that time when chieftains and Gaelic nobles were entertained by aristocratic Irish harpers and poets “in a tradition that links all the way back to mediaeval times, castles and the great houses of long ago,” added Siobhan.

Working as a freelance international performer and teacher, Siobhán plays copies of harps from the 15th- 18th-centuries as well as 17th-century opera and chamber music with the main baroque directors in Europe.

More grant funding available to Kilkenny charities BENEFACT Group’s Movement for Good Awards is giving away a further €500,000 to support charity projects that have a lasting impact on communities.

For the fourth year running, the Benefact Group is giving away €1million to charities through its Movement for Good Awards. Applications

for the larger grants of €10,000 or more are now open and close on Friday, August 5.

Charities supporting education and skills, rural or community development, heritage, arts or culture, climate or environment, and human rights or equality are invited to apply online at: www. m ov e m e n t f o r g o o d . c o m /

largergrants In 2021, Dublin based charity, Common Ground, which is an arts development organisation; and Sligo based charity, Kids’ Own, which is a children's arts organisation and publishing house; both received a €10,000 grant to fund great projects. This year Ecclesiastical Insurance Ire-

land is inviting more charities to apply. The funding can be used within three years and for a blend of project and core funding costs.

David Lane, Managing Director for Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland, said they hoped to continue to help charities at a time when they need it most.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Heir hunting – worth a fortune?

HEIR hunting made headlines recently when Padraic Grennan of Erin Research – specialising in probate genealogy – traced the next of kin of Hilary Smith and her husband Nicholas, whose bodies were found 18 months after they died in their rural Tipperary home. Grennan’s investigators found a son of Mrs Smith’s from a previous relationship who had not seen his mother for 55 years and a brother of Mr Smith’s living in London.

Usually though, heir hunting involves inheritance where next of kin cannot be found.

Inheritance and wills can be a great source of curiosity, relatives want to know if they will be remembered. When I wrote a legal column there were lots of queries about wills. Would it be all right to unlock the uncle’s cupboard where he had his will to see what was in it? That sort of thing.

You might suppose that

families stay in touch or that those with means might want to know where their money would go after they passed away but this isn’t always the case. Beneficiaries, who are far away may not be easy to find or due to fractured families the next of kin may not be known.

Also people may die intestate – without having made a will – and surviving relatives entitled to inherit may not be readily traceable.

So are heir hunting scenarios common here? “We deal with hundreds of cases a year,” says Maeve Mullin of Dublin-based Finders International. The 11-strong Finders team deal mainly with cases referred to them by solicitors where beneficiaries or next of kin cannot be traced. “It’s more common in the UK than in Ireland; in rural areas here, neighbours of the deceased might sometimes know of their relatives.

It’s fascinating work. This year,

for instance, we have traced relatives in every corner of Ireland.”

The firm which has offices in Dublin, London, Edinburgh and Sydney plus an international team of agents and researchers are involved in hunting heirs around the world. The UK accounts for the biggest number of searches, followed by the main destination for Irish migrants, the US,

Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Stories of long- lost relatives inheriting large fortunes are rare though. ”When we contact people they sometimes get very excited thinking they are going to inherit millions and we try to manage their expectations, ”says Maeve. Situations where the proceeds of the sale of an average home would be divided between 15-20 cousins who are entitled to inherit are more typical. Tracing involves detailed work using records including birth, marriage, death and other genealogical certificates. Sometimes no heirs may be found, either because the line has died out, the name is too common or the deceased may have given an incorrect date of birth, in these instances the money reverts to the State.

Heirs may do the hunting too. Bona Vacantia Estates website lists unclaimed in-

heritances in the UK, some of them involving estates belonging to people born in Ireland.

The Unclaimed Estates website for Ireland lists 430 deaths of Irish born people since 1997 with unclaimed estates plus an additional 11 for this year in the hope that beneficiaries may come forward before the proceeds of the estate are eventually passed to the State.

Visit: https://unclaimedestates.ie/ In these situations, heirs may also do the hunting and Finders International also support potential beneficiaries in submitting their claims. It’s not just a matter of turning up and claiming to be a long-lost relative to claim an inheritance, due diligence has to be observed with appropriate evidence before the estate can be referred to the solicitor involved for distribution.

Probate researchers and heir hunters can be very helpful

and make tracing easier, but how can you be certain that a hunter is reputable? For reassurance, check to see if the practitioner belongs to the IAPPR ( the International Association of Professional Probate Researchers, Genealogists and Heir Hunters) which is involved in raising standards in the profession. And how much is it likely to cost? Practitioners charge a percentage of the estate to cover their costs, typically this starts from 10% but depends on the basis on which the trace is undertaken, the value of the estate and so on.

Sometimes heir hunting cases have the making of a riveting novel. I heard of one elderly English woman who inherited $6 million from a distant relative in America.

Before she could benefit, she died intestate, the search for about 20 far-flung cousins is still ongoing.

Don’t let bloating, constipation, or heartburn ruin your holiday CLAIR WHITTY

Bloating, constipation, or heartburn are common digestive problems that many of you may experience from time to time. But some of you might only have digestive issues when you’re away from home.

This can happen because you eat food that you don’t normally eat at home, or just more food in general. Of course, it can be an excess of coffee, ice-cream, cakes, rich food, or alcohol. Or maybe you don’t drink enough water or get as much exercise like walking as you normally would.

If you feel bloated after breads, pasta, cakes or sweet treats you could benefit from

taking digestive enzymes.

Udo’s Choice have a travel size pack of Digestive Enzymes which is ideal for the short time you’ll be away. They’ll help you to digest the carbs, fats, and fibre in the food so that you’ll feel less bloated.

Heartburn is a real nuisance.

This will cause a burning, scalding feeling in the chest and throat area. It can be made worse by almost any food. Coffee, ice-cream, and alcohol, are common culprits.

Frutin chewable tablet is a natural supplement that can ease the symptoms of heartburn. It contains natural fruit fibres which create a natural foam barrier on top of the stomach content. Essentially by putting a coating on top of the stomach it can stop the acid coming back up the throat and causing you the horrible burning sensation.

You can relax and enjoy your meals in peace. It contains calcium and dandelion to support good digestion, in an ideal travel size. It has a mild mint flavour, is sugar free and vegan.

Constipation could be helped by taking more water, a little bit of walking, and a microbiotic to top up your friendly bacteria. Many of you will have Super 8, one of our most popular microbiotic supplements. You can take this with you. It will remain stable for five days out of the fridge and it reduces in strength after that at a very slow rate. Many of you will have a fridge you can pop it in when you arrive at your destination.

If you do experience any of these symptoms regularly it would be important to get to the root cause.

Oh, and don’t forget to take your Incognito mosquito repellent spray so you don’t become the meal!

Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands.

Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

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Science & Wellbeing A SMALL town in Romania called Costesti is home to unusual geological manifestations – bulging bulbous boulders called trovants.

So fantastical are these trovants, they’ve found a place in local folklore. Some say they grow, walk and even give birth to baby trovants.

Science says they’re probably right, according to Howstuffworks.com Trovants are spherical and slightly irregular-shaped rocks. They can be as small as less than an inch, or a couple of millimeters, in diameter and weigh only a few gramms, or they can soar up to 15 feet (4.5 metres) high and weigh several tonnes.

These odd, gravity-defying boulders have baffled observers since the 18th century with many a curious soul suspecting they were dinosaur eggs, plant fossils or even alien pods.

Scientists believed trovants to be a type of concretion — a mound of mineral matter (specifically gritstone and conglomerates) embedded within rock layers of limestone, sandstone or shale.

They often form from minerals precipitating, or settling, out of water collected around a nucleus of pebble, leaf, shell, bone or fossil.

However, in 2008, the International Geological Congress in Oslo claimed trovants were incorrectly classified as concretions because there was no mineral difference between the stones and the sandstone beds on which they sat. There was also no distinct nucleus inside them, states Howstuffworks.com.

Whatever they are, scientists believe that based on their makeup and locale atop the sands, these weird stones are older than man — shaped by earthquakes around 5.3 million years ago, during the Middle Miocene sub-epoch.

The surrounding sands also suggest the area was an ancient marine environment, which may explain why bivalve and gastropod fossils can sometimes be found in them.

Another oddity about trovants — they secrete ce-

The mysterious ‘living’ stones of Romania

New tech turns food waste into edible cement

Trovants such as these are found only in Romania and have become such a tourist attraction that they are protected by UNESCO. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS (CC BY SA 3.0)

ment. This talent makes some people think they may be living creatures and not simply rocks. This cement seepage occurs after a heavy rain shower. When trovants absorb the rain’s minerals, the minerals come in contact with the chemicals already present in the stone, causing a pressure reaction that makes the rocks grow in girth. It’s not something you can see happening. Researchers say the deposition

rate for trovants is roughly 1.5 to 2 inches (4 to 5 centimeters) every 1,000 years.

This same phenomenon is what causes trovants multiply or “reproduce,” as some might say. When a new growth bauble emerges, likely from water affecting only one side of the rock, and gets big enough, it can break off from the “parent” rock and create baby trovants.

Some people also believe that trovants can “walk,”

much like the so-called sailing stones of Death Valley that appear to drift across the flat desert landscape on their own. One researcher allegedly filmed trovants for two weeks and claimed one moved about one-tenth of an inch (2.5 millimeters). While many academics are sceptical about “trovant walking” claims, they don’t deny the possibility that the heating or cooling of the soil could cause movement among the

stones.

Trovants are almost exclusively found in Romania’s Valcea County at the sand quarry near the Costesti village, along the Gresarea Brook, or in the neighboring Otesani village. To protect these unusual geological specimens, the “Muzeul Trovantilor” or Trovants Museum Natural Reserve, was developed in Valcea County, Romania, in 2004, and is now protected by UNESCO.

Nasal spray seems to help clear coronavirus in trials A NOVEL nasal spray treatment appears to show promise in quickly clearing the coronavirus that causes Covid-19 from our nostrils, according to Gizmodo.com.

In a recent Phase III trial in India, the spray was found to significantly reduce people’s nasal viral load within days and at a faster rate than those who received a placebo. Treated people also tested negative for the virus on a swab test faster than the placebo group.

The potential treatment is being primarily developed by the Canadian company SaNOtize, with different partners in various countries, such as Glenmark Pharmaceuticals in India. It contains nitric oxide, a molecule with

several important roles in the human body that is also used as medication to help widen the airways and blood vessels in people with certain conditions. Some research has indicated that nitric oxide can have a potent antimicrobial effect as well, and that’s led to hopes that it could be used as a frontline Covid-19 treatment for people soon after a suspected or confirmed exposure to the coronavirus.

If so, a nasal spray may be the best method of delivery, since infection often starts in the upper respiratory tract.

Details of the randomised, double-blinded, placebocontrolled trial were published in The Lancet Regional Health-Southeast Asia. It

enrolled more than 300 adults confirmed to have Covid-19 and mild symptoms (both vaccinated and unvaccinated). Two groups used a nasal spray six times a day for seven days, though only one group received the real treatment.

On average, those who took nitric oxide appeared to clear the virus from their nose earlier than the placebo group, with their overall viral load judged to have decreased by 99% within 48 hours. The median length of time for those in the treatment group to test negative for the virus was day three, compared to the sevenday median seen with the placebo group. The treatment was also well-tolerated, with only a few participants report-

ing mild adverse effects such as nasal discomfort. The trial took place during periods of the pandemic when the Delta and Omicron variants were widely circulating, suggesting that it was similarly effective against either.

In February 2022, the nasal spray was cleared for use and launched in India under an accelerated approval process, under the name Fabispray. It’s also been cleared and is now being sold in parts of Asia and Israel under different names, and it has been registered as a medical device in the European Union.

While the results in this latest trial do seem to be the largest yet of any nitric oxide treatment for Covid-19, there

are some lingering questions. Right now, for instance, the results suggest but don’t demonstrate for certain that nitric oxide can reduce the severity of symptoms, the risk of further transmission to others, or the odds of worsening illness—the latter being especially important for higher-risk individuals. A greater proportion of those on the spray did report feeling noticeably better by day eight then the placebo group (78% vs 62%), though.

Should more research continue to find similarly positive data, SaNOtize hopes that this spray won’t just be useful against Covid-19 but other respiratory infections, particularly influenza.

RESEARCHERS at Tokyo University have developed a new technology that can turn any type of food waste into edible cement for construction use, with a tensile strength quadruple that of ordinary concrete.

The initiative was started by a desire to reduce global warming, reports Inhabitant. com. Most food that goes to waste contributes to global warming by releasing methane gas into the atmosphere during decomposition.

Further, cement production contributes up to 8% of global carbon dioxide emissions.

Yuya Sakai, an associate professor of Industrial Science, ventured into research to find sustainable materials that could be used in cement production.

At first, Sakai developed a way of making concrete by subjecting wood particles to heat compression. The process involved three steps: drying, pulverization, and compression. He used simple mixers and compressors that can be purchased from Amazon. Later, Sakai with his student Kota Machida tried the same approach with food waste.

In their early trials, they had to use plastic to make the food waste cement tensile enough. However, after months of trials, they ended up with pure food waste cement simply by adjusting the temperature and pressure used in the process.

The researchers have so far been able to make cement using tea leaves, orange and onion peel, coffee grounds, Chinese cabbage and even lunchbox leftovers in some cases. They have also been able to adjust the flavours of their product and give it different colours. They say that the cement can be eaten after being broken into pieces and boiled.

Sakai says the cement could be instrumental in making temporary homes for evacuation purposes where it can be converted into food should supplies run out. “For example, if food cannot be delivered to evacuees, they could eat makeshift beds made out of food cement,” he said.

To make the cement waterproof, it can be coated with Japanese lacquer. The researchers suggest this as a way of protecting it from being eaten by rodents. If adopted, the cement could be instrumental in reducing the growing global burden of waste.

“Our ultimate hope is that this cement replaces plastic and cement products, which have worse environmental impacts,” Machida said. Reported by Via Fox, Washington Post.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Don’t get hacked off – get vigilant!

MY bank account was hacked last week! I noticed a sum of money was sent to an online delivery company to deliver from a restaurant in Dublin to an address in Dublin – a nominal amount – at 5.15 pm last Friday.

I called, or should I say logged on to, the delivery service chat app and I have to say they could not have been more unhelpful if they tried.

Nothing they could do, no they will not be refunding me my money, call the police – I was on my own.

Seemingly, if I had not noticed the transaction further ever increasingly larger amounts could have been debited over time from my account. On calling AIB fraud department, I was informed my AIB card had been compromised through the Apple Pay account on my phone. They could see what had happened and my card was immediately cancelled.

A new card and pin would be sent on in five or so days. The stolen money was returned to my account within days. They were so efficient! But I wonder what would have happened if I had not copped the transaction?

Fraud cases have been on the rise for the last few years. Fraudsters continually develop sophisticated scams which seek to gain the trust of unsuspecting individuals, while appearing as legitimate service providers.

With the increase in cashless transactions people are not as aware of their spending habits. It is so important to be alert and aware. If you think you are the victim of a scam or fraud immediately inform your bank and freeze or cancel your card. As you try to retrace your recent card usage remember that card skimming may have occurred weeks even months previously before any unlawful

transactions are carried out on your account.

Be very vigilant. Here are five of the most common frauds: Payment Card Fraud – As outlined above. Always keep your card safe. Check your bank statement regularly. If your card is lost or stolen or there are unusual transactions on your statement report it to your bank immediately.

Cancel the card and when your new card arrives sign it and cut up the old card. Do not write your PIN down on the card, or keep it with your card! Really? Yes really! Do not give your PIN to anyone.

Never let your card out of your sight when making a purchase.

Invoice Fraud – A criminal contacts a firm pretending to be a supplier that already conducts business with the company. They request that bank account details be changed. Then the next time an invoice arrives from the

legitimate supplier its paid into the criminals’ account.

This type of theft will not be noticed until a reminder invoice is received from the legitimate supplier. The business loses money on the double as they still have an outstanding invoice to pay to the legitimate supplier. Staff training is essential. Companies should have clear policies and procedures in place.

For example, always call the suppliers to verify whether the request is correct. Never respond directly by using the contact details contained in the email. Use an independent means of contact.

Phishing – A seemingly reputable company contacts you by email. You open the mail. You clink on the link.

Malicious software (malware) is downloaded onto your machine. This allows whomever to track your online activity and identify personal or financial information for

fraudulent purposes. Never open or respond to unsolicited emails looking for personal, financial or security advice.

Never open attachments that you cannot verify.

Phone Fraud – This involves criminals contacting you by phone (vishing) or by text (smishing) pretending to be your bank, credit card issuer, utility company etc. They

‘Remember always the old adage, ‘If it seems too good to be true it probably is’

try to trick you into giving personal, banking or security information for a myriad of reasons. Always say NO! Banks etc. never, ever ask for financial details over the phone, by email or text.

Advance Fee Fraud – Duping people to make advance or upfront payments for goods or services that never materialise. You could be asked as a would-be tenant to pay a fee to hold a property you want to rent but it doesn’t exist. An online relationship is formed with one intent only to ask you for money for sick relatives or to come and visit you and you never hear from them again. You buy tickets for an event, you pay, and the tickets never materialise.

On and on it goes. Remember always the old adage, “If it seems too good to be true it probably is.” john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633.

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Brian O Neill is a 23 year old originally from Kilkenny, Ireland, who moved to Porto midFebruary of this year, 2022. He decided to set up a campaign for mental health awareness called ‘Break The Cycle’. His aim for this is to try and, literally, break the cycle of people categorising mental health as an ‘abnormal’ issue rather than an everyday issue. ‘Mental health is normal - good and bad!’ and I don’t think a lot of people fully appreciate that yet.

Mental health can stem from anything you do these days - work, sports, music, friends and family - the list is infinite. He also feels with all the controversial events across the world that’s going on, the attention on everyday issues tend to get brushed under the carpet for the duration of those events.

I’m not trying to take light away from these events, but more so trying to shine some light back on the issue of mental health.

What he is doing He will be completing a cycle from Porto to Albufeira, which is a total of 580km, over 5 days. The goal is to cycle approximately 116km per day for 5 days consecutively, with no money, no bed, just his bike. He will be explaining to people his campaign along the

way with the hope that they will sponsor his lunch, dinner and anything else along the way.

Where the raised funds will go 2 organisations for the funds be the divided between.1 - 60% of funds to Teac Tom, a local mental health awareness organisation in Kilkenny. Being from Kilkenny and knowing their story it only felt necessary to choose them. 2 - 40% of funds will go to Mental Health Ireland, a long established national mental health organisation in Ireland.

“I would like to thank everyone in advance for any donations you have made. .Fundraisers like this keeps the likes of Teac Tom running, so no matter how little of a donation you are willing to make, it’s more than appreciated! If you are not in a position to make a donation, that’s more than okay, but spreading the message will also go a long way” Fundraiser by Brian O’Neill : Break The Cycle (gofundme.com) john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Feature At a recent reception at city hall in Kilkenny, Mayor David Fitzgerald welcomed thirty members of The Saturday walkers club.

Started in 2012 by then mayor Seán Ó hArgáin, the focus was on Kilkenny being a healthy and active city. According to Seán, “I had recently travelled my own journey of improving my levels of fitness and health and I wanted the opportunities for others, particularly men, to be able to make the same journey.”

Fast forward ten years, and Mayor Fitzgerald praised those in attendance for bringing a richness to the history of Kilkenny which otherwise may not have come to the fore.

The Newly elected mayor saved special praise for Paddy Neary, and Maireann Kelly who had overseen five hundred and twenty eight walks , covering the last ten years .

To mark the occasion, Cllr. Fitzgerald presented a certificate to Paddy Neary, Maireann Kelly and Seán Ó hArgáin.

Thanking the mayor, Paddy Neary said that it was hard to credit that the group had covered so much ground and lasted so long.” Our walk today, marks five hundred and twenty eight walks over ten year without missing any Saturday.”

The walks have covered a multitude of topics including the history of the river Nore, the famous Colles marble works, the ancient mills, as well as treks outside the city envoirns to such places as Kilcooley Abbey, The Ahenny Cross, Castlecomer mines and Windgap.

Maireann Kelly also spoke of the great friendship that has built up over the years and said it was wonderful to be learning about Kilkenny history with so many friends. .

Concluding the event, Mayor Fitzgerald thanked all the walkers for their great efforts in keeping the history of Kilkenny alive and passing it on to the next generation.

Sean Ó Hargáin, Mayor David Fitzgerald, Maireann Kelly and Paddy Neary

Mayor Fitzgerald thanks ‘the Saturday Walkers Group’ for keeping the history of Kilkenny alive David Fitzgerald, mayor of Kilkenny with Paddy Neary

Maireann Kelly and Mayor Fitzgerald

A 10 year celebration cake

John Comerford and Kieran Lynch

Margaret Mc Grath and Fergus Witheroe

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Feature

John and Kieran Lynch

Attending the celebrations at city hall: Michael Murphy, Martin Brett and Fr. Tom Coyle

Margot Neary and Mary Gittens

Brigid Gleeson, Sheila Kirby, Eamon Kiely

Paddy Neary, Mayor David Fitzgerald Maireann Kelly and Sean óHargáin cutting the cake to celebrate ten years of the walkers group

Maireann and Oisín Kelly at City Hall

Cllr Maria Dollard and Nickey Maher

Jimmy Neary and Tom Kennedy

Councillors Maria Dullard, David Fitzgerald and John Coonan

Maura Holden, Mai Brennan and Una Gibbons

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Feature

Bruno McCormack:

An unlikely tail This week The Kilkenny Observer is delighted to introduce a short story from a Newpark resident Renowned for sporting prowess over decades, the inhabitants of Newpark regularly brought honours and titles to their beloved estate. High performances delivered accolades in hurling, courtesy of O’Loughlins and Dicksboro. Much to the chagrin of some observers, the other city-based team (whose name at present escapes me) also found a fair share of glory.

Other sports to bring success were golf and its offspring, pitch and putt.

It must be recognized that athletics gave more popular pursuits a run for their money. Nor should we forget that football (of the foreign variety) brought silverware to the estate. The Gaelic version was at this time much derided (although a rumour persists that Billy Deegan and Donie Phelan both togged

out in striped jerseys, for the county, one wet November evening in Ballyragget).

Excluded from our list are the caps awarded to those who represented the community on Sunday afternoons, pounding the greens fronting the estate. This group of rogues was invariably made up of Codys, Deegans, Fogartys, Hayeses, Hickeys, McCormacks, Marnells, O’Briens and Phelans. Their ranks were supplemented by imports such as Bob Brophy, Bosco Buckley, Rocksie Deegan and Mons Heffernan from satellite hamlets on the Johnswell Road and New Orchard.

Today, as we cast a retrospective eye over those youthful endeavours, we recall masculine and amazingly handsome men constantly achieving magnificence. But one story, amid all this bril-

liance, remains untold. The lacuna remains an account of the night Bruno McCormack, perhaps Newpark’s most stellar sporting icon, became a champion.

If the years have dimmed your memory, if you have never heard of Bruno, you might imagine him a middle weight boxer. Not so. Bruno was a white Jack Russell terrier with black spots.

A knowledgeable former resident (let’s call her Mary, for that is her name) often remarks that Newpark was the only place where dogs had surnames. Proving this point, other notable canines included Spot Bergin, Penny Cody, Ringo Hickey and Bruce Meaney. But these entities were your common or garden mutt and must be left to tell their own tales.

For our story, we head back to the 1960s, when a make-

shift dog track appeared at Greenshill. This arena was situated on a piece of ground owned by or usurped by (I never knew which) John Dalton. It was to be found between the Nore and the drinking establishment named after the river.

This field was known as ‘The Bow Wow Track’. Here, dogs of various sizes, hues and disputed pedigrees gathered to do battle. A specially convened open championship for terriers allowed Bruno his opportunity.

Announced on a Monday, the race was to take place the following Friday evening. The short timeframe necessitated the implementation of a major training schedule – for the dog, at least. The owners/ trainers were siblings Dinnie, Tom and Margo, with baby sister Mary the official ‘Little Mascot’.

Assistance to the family syndicate was rendered by a host of close neighbours. Joe Cody, Ger O’Brien and Eugene Phelan were recruited to help with training duties, while Podge Cody and Merch Marnell acted as handlers.

Precise roles were never defined and nothing more was required than doing as instructed by Dinnie.

Following an intense week of planning, allied to a walking and running regime for Bruno, the longed for day arrived. A crowd of supporters, simulating the antics of the Pied Piper’s followers, departed from Newpark, marching behind the owners, who were proudly carrying their charge. Consultations with legendary doggie man Mick Lennon emphasized Bruno needing to conserve all his energies for the exertions ahead.

The racing began but we paid no heed. We were totally focused on our representative.

Prior to the off, Bruno was cosseted: stroked, washed and given (on a warm summer evening) copious amounts of water to quench his obvious thirst.

O ye of little knowledge...

“Are ye trying to kill the little dog?” asked an auld fella, Craven A cigarette hanging from his lip.

Then our race was called.

Dinnie and Tom strategically placed Bruno in the centre of participants. At the start line, using a forefinger beneath the collar, the owners held their entrant at the ready.

Now the first part of Newpark’s plan was put into action. Tom brought Bruno to the start line, while Dinnie remained at the side, so as to indicate the optimum moment of release.

‘Go!’ yelled the starter.

Bruno sped away.

Opinion differed afterwards.

Either this terrier showed phenomenal acceleration or Dinnie called early, granting his candidate an advantage.

Whatever the case, Bruno ran straight and true, galloping home well ahead of a devastated field.

This outcome was no accident. The second part of Newpark’s plan had also worked a treat.

As some dogs faltered and ran off course, Bruno never wavered. He ran straight to the end line, where Margo and Mary were stationed. Bruno had a special affinity with the Little Mascot. Hearing her call, he rushed forward and jumped into her arms.

Bedlam ensued as we greeted our hero. Yahoos resounded as we paraded our champion homeward. That night, we celebrated wildly with bags of Taytos, Flash bars and bottles of milk.

The devotion levied on Bruno outdid even the plaudits lavished on an All Ireland Champion. Demonstrating that we had learned the importance of good dog care, he was rewarded during the following weeks with chocolate and doughnuts. In our defence, Bruno was unaware that these items were bad for him and therefore thrived.

Honouring the victory, Dinnie, Tom, Margo and Mary, in a moment of supreme affection, assumed Bruno’s surname. Even today, they are still known to the older residents of the estate as ‘The McCormacks’.

Near half a century has passed since those funfilled days. Now walking aids and grey bespectacled heads, when the old gang get together to reminisce, attest to the ever changing community that is Newpark.

Bruno is no longer with us.

Neither, alas, are Ger, Joe and Podge. Yet sadness gives way to contentment, knowing they too inhabit the world of golden memory, where we are forever young and where we still recall Newpark’s greatest sporting triumph.

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Kilkenny and Oz, and the love of a stranger

BY NED EGAN

Part 2 Two lovely summer months went by. The Aussie girl was more popular than ever with most people. But the odd one had doubts. Aggie’s old poison kidded a few. A very few.

Then, one day, a letter arrived for her. Registered. So the Postman said, anyway.

Probably solicitors advice about makin’ ‘the claim’, go Aggie.

Next day, Miranda caught the bus into Town. When she returned that evening, she was looking both happy - and sad. It had been a gorgeous sainted day in early autumn, and the fields were sweet and dusted with gold from the haymaking, and the thrushes and blackbirds sang their tiny sweet hearts out, in the little wood behind Nuala’s cottage.

As they sat listening to these carefree choristers, Miranda said - “I have something to tell you”. Nuala knew it was sad

news. And so it was. “I must leave in the morning” the Aussie girl said, “the money for my return ticket has arrived, and the company I work for can’t hold my job forever.

“Having met you, I know now why I loved Michael so much.

We were both foolish not to try harder. But we were only young - not much more than children..” With that, Miranda broke down, badly, for the first time since she’d arrived.

When she’d recovered, they had a drop of brandy as a toast to their friendship, and then went to bed.

The hackney car arrived early next morning. A last hug, and Miranda was gone. Nuala could hear the old car growling up the hill, gears crunching, scraping round the corners.

And then silence, as it dropped down the far side.

She was as lonely as could be, and went straight up to ‘Michael’s Room’, where Miranda had spent sixty-two very happy nights. As she sat down on the bed, she saw an envelope on the pillow, with “To Nuala” written on it.

Inside was a brief note. In it, Miranda thanked Nuala for her love, and her acceptance of a young stranger. She wished

to be remembered fondly to the locals - and especially to Aggie - whom the innocent girl hadn’t seen through.

In the last few lines, Miranda apologised for not throwing money around - she had been saving it up. For a special purpose: she needed a “round sum”.

Her last words were: “look under the pillow, Nuala.”

Which the good woman did. An envelope, witha small note inside it went: “Nuala, we won’t meet again. I’m away now to make a new life. I will never forget you - and your lovely sweet son. This little bit of money came up for me yesterday - I had a small plot of land and my car sold. I hope it will enable you to buy out your house. Goodbye, and God Bless you, from your loving daughter, Miranda.”

With the note was a Bank draft - dated the day before.

For ten thousand pounds.

Sterling.

Ned E Disclaimer The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Kilkenny Observer.

Lots to Discover in Bundoran Bundoran in County Donegal has been a staycationer’s favourite for hundreds of years, offering a multitude of activities, family accommodation, eating and drinking opportunities, and entertainment options as well as spectacular outdoor amenities and unrivalled views on the Wild Atlantic Way. Known as Ireland’s #SurfCapital, the Donegal seaside town is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts with surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and SUPing all on offer. The traditional sports of golfing, angling (sea, river & lake) and horseriding are all catered for in the town while walking on the famous Roguey Cliff Walk is a must for that end of day relaxation. For the more adventurous, year round outdoor swimming is available in two man made

freshwater pools (Thrupenny & West End) which attract swimmers across the twelve months. These tidal pools are naturally filled daily by water from the Atlantic Ocean.

If it’s tradition you’re after, check out Bundoran’s original tourist attraction – the Fairy Bridges and Wishing Chair. So called as locals believed this natural sea arch to be haunted by fairies. The nearby wishing chair offers the chance for dreams to come true but only by strictly following the ritual.

For family fun, Waterworld has reopened this year with its numerous slides, pools and other water attractions – there’s four sessions daily so make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! When you’re done there, head on over to Bundoran Adventure Park right on the seafront

with its fairground atmosphere and fun carnival rides including the View Wheel offering stunning panoramas of Bundoran from 36 metres above the ground! You could also relax at Bundoran Seaweed Baths that will rejuvenate you in a tranquil environment with numerous therapeutic benefits.

Finally don’t be caught short for something to eat or drink, or indeed somewhere to stay! From hotels to B&Bs to self-catering and hostels, every budget is catered for while you won’t go hungry with Irish and international cuisine with dining options right across town.

Bundoran has something to offer everyone – why not discover it for yourself in 2022!

For more see www.discoverbundoran.com

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Jim Carroll - an appreciation The sudden death of Jim Carroll had a devastating effect on Kilkenny people.

Affectionately known as Sag, he spent a lifetime working within the hospitality industry.

A gregarious, ebullient and effervescent personality ensured that Jim forever remained well liked. Yet along with the friendliness, the companionable nature, he was a man of steely determination and integrity.

All through the maelstrom of life’s false and wayward perspectives, Jim Carroll stayed solidly grounded. His calm persona and common sense approach defused many difficult situations before they escalated. “Done and dusted,” he would remark, after restoring calm, as he sauntered away about his business.

A contemporary, I first met Jim during our teenage years, as we took part in youthful pursuits around a parochial Kilkenny City. Although we considered these pastimes to be the height of daring, hindsight shows they were innocent trivialities. But they delivered, to that generation of youth, many experiences of excitement and adventure, bonds that resulted in lifetime friendships.

Following those youthful interactions, we drifted

apart. Work experiences and new colleagues demanded our attention. Jim’s working life began in Henderson’s Supermarket. He graduated, having done a demanding apprenticeship, to one of Kilkenny’s iconic hostelries, Andy’s Tavern.

Working in this environment proved this young man’s forte.

He blossomed. Quick wit and a gift for repartee swiftly made him a popular and accomplished addition to the business.

As his skills increased, Jim assumed a more responsible role, with Andy and himself

sharing the work load. This period was Jim’s finest professional achievement. He took Beer Festivals and busy shifts in an immensely capable stride.

Many listeners felt Jim’s famed stories concerning Beer Festival shenanigans were audacious accounts, designed to titivate and astonish. If this aim was the plan, the intention succeeded. Many recipients pleaded for more details. Jim obliged and embellished, with a cheeky grin, every tale.

Jim and I reconnected, after years apart, when he discovered I enjoyed consum-

ing fermented liquor and I had discovered, fortuitously, Andy’s Tavern. The friendship rekindled in this environment and soon we began frequenting other such establishments and sampling their wares.

Hurling became another outlet. The latter end of the intercountry championship would turn us into enthusiastic supporters, relishing trips to Croke Park. On these occasions, Jim invariably drove and his innate ability provided safe passage. The journeys were joyous occasions. Jim shortened the road with anecdotes and a plethora of humorous stories. On such occasions, his libation and sustenance were a much cherished can of Coke and a bar of chocolate.

Marriage to Bid Mahony brought happiness, stability and contentment. Through some turbulent times, they overcame obstacle-strewn pathways and raised a family, James and Dean, of whom they were justifiably proud.

At this time, Jim changed career and supported his father’s daytime business by driving a school bus. Once more, an empathic nature became a trump and he dealt patiently with his young clients. Jim had a natural affinity with children. Even years later, they would vociferously hail him

whenever their paths crossed.

Emphasizing this affection, many of those schoolchildren, long since adult, attended the services of removal and internment for Jim. Government restructuring of bus contracts began to impede. So, Jim resumed his previous trade, enjoying sojourns in Hotel Kilkenny, O’Gorman’s and Tynan’s.

Retirement meant his expertise got utilized to help family members. He brought near unique talents to O’Hara’s in Thomastown, a place he loved, dearly, and The Corner House in Bennettsbridge.

Wherever Jim Carroll went, his professionalism rose to the fore. With ease and poise, he instantly immersed himself in the minutiae of various establishments. Throughout all his endeavours, Jim’s trustworthiness stood beyond reproach, as a shining testament.

Dependability burnished his credentials, garnering universal respect and admiration.

Aficionados placed Jim in the trade’s highest echelons.

That he was given first refusal when senior positions became available was widely acknowledged.

Jim equally counted as a remarkably kind-hearted neighbour and friend. He did countless good deeds in

private, expecting no recompense or reward. Throughout his life, he was a loyal companion, genuinely supportive yet full of roguish devilment. Time spent in the company of this renowned raconteur, was a delightful experience, and never disappointed. Afterwards, regaled and sated, you departed in the best of spirits.

A haunting silence has descended in the immediate aftermath of Jim’s passing.

Our hearts are broken, our senses stilled, our world torn apart. Nothing makes sense.

We are bereft and lonely. Grief is a constant companion. Yet we will recover. Tears will cease; laughter will return. The indomitable human spirit will triumph.

For the interim, we will remember Jim by recalling days of joy and happiness, days dominated by frivolous interactions and uncontrollable laughter. We will remember extraordinary kindness and decency, keeping his memory fresh and alive.

When the time is right, when we are strong enough, we will set his spirit free and let him go. Then we will be at peace.

The grave will loosen its grip and death shall have no dominion.

Rest easy, Sag. (Fc )

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

Feature

a r e m a c s t h g Li

n o i t c a from Dreamstuff

Dreamstuff Youth Theatre and ‘Lights, Climate, Action!’ performed, Fail, an Epic or An Epic Fail written by Jody O’Neill and commissioned

by Youth Theatre Ireland.

The cast began workshopping the play under the guidance of Kevin Mooney in a borrowed room in Desart Hall courtesy of Ossory Youth in February this year.

Taking inspiration from the words of one of the world’s leading activists for Climate Action, Greta Thunberg, the play follows a group of young people attempting to stage a 100% carbon neutral and recyclable production.

Everything, including the cast, are entirely carbon neutral… but are they really?

The production was supported by The Fr. McGrath Centre, Kilkenny Arts Office and Youth Theatre Ireland.

Dreamstuff ’s next fully improvised production “Unreasonable” will take place at the end of July with the support of Creative Ireland.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Former army band man Charlie releases trumpet classic for home care team When it comes to music, Charlie Parsons knows a thing or two on that topic.

As a former trumpet player in the Army Band he has recently recorded the trumpet classic Il Silenzio in memory of his mother.

All proceeds will go to the Carlow / Kilkenny home care team who are very close to his heart, following the death of his Mam to cancer some years ago.

“The care my Mam got from the team was excellent and she was very happy to have the wonderful nurses look after her so well in her last few months”, said Charlie.

Charlie was in the army band for 32 years, having joined when he was 15 and trained for two years in the army

school of music.

He was then posted to the No 1 band where he stayed for five years.

When he married Emily Anderson of Newpark, he transferred to the Curragh Band and commuted from Kilkenny.

He played at the pope’s visit in 1979 and played many times in Áras an Uachtaráin and Dublin castle and many commemorations around the country.

Charlie played at the funerals of four presidents including Eamon De Valera.

The band give many recitals in schools around the country where they demonstrate all the instruments and all the children absolutely love it.

Locally, Charlie joined St

Patrick’s when he was fourteen and he re-joined when he retired from the army band.

Charlie says he was thrilled with the response he got from people in the music industry as everyone involved in the making of the cd gave their time free of charge.

“My mother’s name was Marie Parsons a well-known confectioner in Kilkenny. She was well known for fabulous wedding birthday and christening cakes”, said Charlie And it would appear that the love of music is set to carry on as Charlie’s nephew Adam Nolan is a well know jazz saxophonist in Kilkenny.

Interestingly enough Adam was in charge of production on the recently released the CD with the help of Martin

Drennan in Martin’s studio.¨ “When Covid took over a few years back it put the plans of launching the CD on the back burner , but I am delighted to finally have it launched”, said Charlie.

Charlies mother was Marie Parsons who was well known as a confectioner and her featuring at numerous weddings and christenings.

The compact disc can be purchased in Essenes Kieran Street , Kilkenny, and Chadwick’s, Carlow. A digital copy can be purchased at the link below. https://charlieparsons.bandcamp.com/album/il-silenzio All proceeds from the sale of the CD will go to the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care team.

Carlow Kilkenny Home Care

Team is a voluntary organisation established in 1989 to provide a home based palliative nursing care service to cancer patients in the counties of Carlow and Kilkenny. The Home Care Team currently employs 5 Nursing Staff to provide this service on a 24 hour seven day week basis allowing cancer patients to remain at home for as long as possible. The service works in close cooperation with the General Practitioner and Public Health Nursing Services in the community and referrals are generally made through the patient’s General Practitioner. Referrals can also be made through the hospital based oncology and palliative

care units. While we do receive some financial support from the Health Service Executive the Home Care Team is very much dependent on voluntary contributions to ensure that it can continue to provide the best possible standards of care to its clients in the Carlow and Kilkenny area. All voluntary funding raising received goes directly towards funding the salaries of the nursing staff The Home Care Team is based at St. Luke’s General Hospital, Kilkenny and can be contacted at (056) 77 85000. Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team Ltd. is a registered charity with the Irish Revenue Commissioners and the registered charity number is 9354.

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Cromwell in Kilkenny Another legend relates to the prof profanement of Kilkenny’s Market Cross

by Cromwellian soldiers. This magnificent stone structure stood close to the present location of the same name. Four columns supported it and devout folk could ascend it on its four sides by flights of stone steps.

From its highest point rose a sculptured figure of the Crucifixion.

Shortly after the occupation forces entered the city, a band of troops gathered in the market place around this monument. Aiming their muskets, they opened fire on the Crucifixion symbol to aggravate locals and show them who was in charge. They then broke off pieces of the monument and scattered these on the street.

This part of the story is believable, and the incident would have been quite typical of Cromwell’s troops in the aftermath of a military triumph.

But the legend goes on to describe what became of the “profaning scoundrels” who desecrated the Market Cross. Within a few days, each of the seven soldiers involved had died of “a strange malady”…

Heaven’s revenge, locals believed.

Outside the city, Governor Axtel made his presence equally felt. He had no qualms about suppressing any hint of opposition to Cromwellian rule within his jurisdiction.

After hostilities had ceased, he instructed his troops to round up fifty inhabitants of Thomastown and

execute them as a reprisal for an ambush mounted the previous day in the district by a mixed group of Royalist and native Irish fighters.

A makeshift gallows was erected.

The men and women chosen were hanged one by one as families and friends were compelled to watch.

The scene of unspeakable horror was preserved for a week to ensure that locals got the message.

On Axtel’s orders, Cromwellian troops shot and killed a group of forty men, women and children in a field near Kildonan Wood.

Axtel had a Fitzgarret of Brow beheaded because the man’s father had fought in the King’s army against Cromwell. The sons of the Butlers of Ballykeeffe and Bonnettstown were hanged for the same “offence”.

Francis Frisby, a former servant of the Earl of Ormonde, also drew the wrath of Axtel and his Roundhead goons. A protestant and Englishman, Frisby was tortured to death in Kilkenny Castle.

Captain Thomas Shortall was hanged by Axtel simply because he owned a fine estate two miles outside Kilkenny that the Cromwellians had their eyes on.

Though all Catholic clergy had been ordered to leave Kilkenny from day one of the occupation, some remained out of loyalty to believers. But a Decree of banishment in 1653 forced these brave clerics to depart also…with the exception of

a few who were promptly arrested.

A Baptist community thrived under the patronage of Governor Axtel.

For a short period after the siege, Kilkenny was allowed to retain its Mayor and Corporation. But these were then abolished. Axtel ordered the confiscation of all property held by the citizens when a nationwide campaign of ethnic cleansing commenced in 1654.

Cromwell’s Order of Confiscation decreed that Kilkenny, among certain other towns and cities, was to be cleared of its citizenry. Though this draconian ruling was not completely enforced in the case of Kilkenny, many householders had to pack their belongings and say goodbye to the city they had lived and grown up in.

With Cromwell’s chilling admonition: “To Hell or to Connacht” ringing in their ears, they moved to the desolate West of Ireland to begin their new lives in exile.

It was mainly wealthier citizens who were transplanted. Their servants and labourers were deemed useful to stay behind and serve their Cromwellian overlords.

There were few tears shed among the oppressed people of Kilkenny City and county when, in 1658, Oliver Cromwell died. His commonwealth regime disappeared two years later with the restoration of Charles II to the English Throne.

- John Fitzgerald

Twilight Youth on the road again Our local Twilight Youth Inclusion members left Kilkenny last week from their base at the International Cultural House 15A Hebron Business Park, Kilkenny.

The group of 10 members, 2 Youth leaders and the Twilight Inclusion officer Stephen Mungovan headed to Margny Les Compiegne France. In this wonderful city, with a strong connection to Joan of Arc the feared French Military leader, they will be joined by a group from Twilight’s Partners and a Twinned City of Kilkenny,

Malbork of Poland.

This trio of cities and youth groups have collaborated on many youth exchanges since they first signed their Charter of Friendship agreements in 2017/18. This Erasmus+ programme will not just be a trip to Margny but the trio of youth groups will be in Kilkenny from 23rd July till 30th as guests of the Twilight Community Group.

While in France the group will take a day trip to Paris and climb the Eiffel Tower and take in the incredible icon tourist attractions of the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, Louvre Museum, the world’s most-vis-

ited museum and lots more on this incredible opportunity for the TYI members between the ages of 13 to 17 years. Back in Margny they will visit the incredible Chateau de Margny Les Compiegne and with free time take a stroll through the cobbled stoned streets of the city. With fun to the fore the Malbork Group taught the groups the Polish Dance steps of the Belgijka”.

The groups will enjoy a day of karting and supervised swimming activities. With beautiful architecture and museums, the groups will enjoy their stay before returning to Kilkenny for another 7 days of fun.

As with all the Twilight trips there is always a cultural side to the programme. The groups will attend a civic reception where they will discuss the importance of Twinning and how the Youth are the future leaders of our cities. The Mayor of Margny les Compiegne is a great friend of Twilight and Kilkenny and is actively involved in all the interactions between Kilkenny and France.

Mayor Bernard Hella is in his 27th year as Mayor or his sixth term. Margny les Compiegne Mayor’s term of Office is for 5 years. Margny Compiegne would make an excellent sister city for our marble city as the connections are strong and growing with interactions like this Erasmus+ project. Let’s hope it can happen during Mayor Hella’s 6th term.

As the Twilight Youth Inclusion group continues to grow and expand its services for the youth of Kilkenny, they will require not just youth members but youth leaders and supervisors. Plans are already under way for 2023/2024. Anyone interested in joining this development just contact our Head office , 15A Hebron House , Hebron Business Park 056 7813105 or email info@ twilight.ie

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Feature

When women’s hands became fighting tools ‘A Woman’s Culm’ (2021) HDV 17:30 mins by Pauline O’Connell is a single-channel film, an artistic response to the commission call-out under the ‘Local Legacies 1921/2021’ Community Strand of the Decade of Centenaries Programme in County Kilkenny.

The short cine-poem, centred on the upland areas along the Castlecomer Plateaux, makes visible rural women’s day-today struggles that resonate with Ireland’s War of Independence era. By ‘keeping the home fires burning’ women not only maintained the home and family but also provided support to the 600+ men of the Castlecomer Battalion. Their tasks included administering first aid; message-carrying; weapons carrying; secrecy and providing safe houses to those on the run, and keeping equilibrium in the face of the unknown.

The cultural practice of ‘culm’ making - unique to coal mining areas - meant that women’s hands became fighting tools and the raw materials that made up ‘buns’, ‘bungs’, ‘bumbs’, or ‘culm bombs’ –a mixture of coal dust, yellow clay and water - formed by the women’s hands became a

measure of their labour. Believing these female personal narratives - where generational learning and grounded knowledge are universally contemporary, this material object (similar in shape and size to a Mills bomb) embeds resilience, self-sustainability and commemoration alike.

And while the short film occupies a borderland where past realities are remembered in the present and historical re-creating mingle, the collaborative processes and social engagements as a result of making the film have created new intra-rural connections and collaborations that, not only speak to the past but to the future too. As we become more aware of the global climate crisis this material object comes into focus once again as the world attempts to transition from fossil fuel to green energy - the human/nature struggle continues. This is at once personal, national and global in scale.

For this, O’Connell’s first museum solo exhibition in Ireland she will screen the film, which is looped, alongside exhibiting sculptural work.

BiographyPauline O’Connell

(b. Dublin 1971) is a visual artist based in rural County Kilkenny, Ireland. She studied Fine Art, Mixed Media at Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art Design and Technology (1988-92) and received a 1st class honours M.A. in Social Practice and the Creative Environment at Limerick School of Art and Design (2012). She is completing a PhD at the University of Amsterdam, School of Heritage, Memory and Material Culture. She has presented her work at L’Ecole Des Beaux-Arts, Paris (FR); M.Y. Art Prospects, New York (USA), EVA International (IRE); Sheffield Hallam University (UK), University College Cork, Maynooth University (IRE); University of Dundee (SCT); RIXC Art Science Festival, Riga (LV) and since 2012 her artworks have been (initially) ‘played back’ or (re)presented locally in the rural contexts from which they emerge - in community halls, in fields and at crossroads.

Recent exhibitions include When a Gap Becomes an Aperture, Stern Studio Gallery, Vienna, Austria (2021) invited by curator Holger Lang; Wording – Collaborative Writing in Public Space (2019) part of

Disruptive Processes at the #3 Research Pavilion (Finland), Venice Biennale, invited by Dr Lena Séraphin; Earth Writings: Bogs, Forests, Fields, Gardens (2019) Maynooth University, Dublin, curated by Dr Karen E. Till; You Cannot Climb a Hedge (2018) AKA, Kilkenny Arts Festival, The Community Field, Castlewarren; Our Journey to Here (2016) VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art, Carlow, curated by Emma Lucy O’Brien; The Milk Well and The Tea Well (2015) Leitrim Sculpture Center Gallery touring to Roscommon Arts Center curated by Linda Shevlin and Sean O’Reilly. Recent awards include ArtLinks Bursary, Kilkenny County Council, The Arts Council of Ireland (2021, 2019, 2015); A

Decade of Centenaries Commission Award for A Woman’s Culm HDV (2021); Mannheim Arts and Film Festival, Germany - Honorable Mention for A Woman’s Culm; WorldFestHouston International Film Festival, USA - Award Winner for A Woman’s Culm.

Biography Dr Sinéad McCoole created A Pop-Up Women’s Museum – 100 years of Women in Politics and Public Life on behalf of the Department of Culture, Heritage, Gaeltacht, Sports and Media.

Specially adapted versions toured every Irish province in 2019 and 2020. The exhibition is now in the 17th-century landmark building, The Main Guard, Clonmel, County Tipperary. A member of the Expert Advisory Group on

the Government of Ireland Decade of Centenaries Programme since 2012 and an ExOfficio member of Vótáil100.

Currently, she curated the Mna100.ie website. This is an online resource for podcasts, films, webinars, seminars and articles relating to the role of women, part of the Irish Government’s Decade of Centenaries Programme. She is the author of several books on Modern Irish history focusing on the role of Irish women.

In 2019 she was awarded her D Litt (National University of Ireland).

For more details contact Pauline O’Connell on email: paulinefire@gmail.com, mobile 083-4441692 or Limerick Museum: Tel. 061-557740

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Community & GAA Notes

MINORS LOSE Clara minors lost back to back games for the first time this season on Monday of last week as they made the short trip to neighbours Gowran to face unbeaten Young Irelands. The 6-14 to 0-15 hiding that they shipped was enough to end Clara’s interest in a League final place and was also sufficient to move Gowran to the top of the League table. That came about as a result of a shock Castlecomer win over James Stephens on the same night. Worryingly for Clara these two sides are drawn together again for the first round of the 2022 championship and, on the evidence here, the Clara boys have a considerable gulf to bridge.

Although Clara could have scored a goal from their first attack, the Gowran boys duly did with theirs. It came from Cian Phelan and his older brother Ben soon got in on the act with two points, one from a free.

Centre forward Eoin O Neill then goaled and two further points left Clara rocked and 10 points adrift after just 14 minutes.Clara found their feet and had their best spell of the match for the next eight minutes, when five points in a row had them thinking they were back in the match. Another Cian Phelan goal stopped them in their tracks and three more Gowran points as against a sole Conor Hoyne reply had the home team a convincing and deserving 3-7 to 0-6 leaders at the break.

Clara set up to try and score early second half goals but it was again the Gowran lads that hit the net first, this time through Ben Phelan. When Clara responded with three points in a row from play by Conor Hoyne, Philip Carrigan and Rory Glynn the same Ben took the wind out of their sails again with another goal. Gowran also scored the next 3 points and this game was over. Clara tried hard but Gowran were just too slick and showed far more intensity than the visitors for this one. Ben Phelan added another late goal and finished this game with 3-7 to his name, more than all of the Clara team had managed. It was a chastening experience for these Clara lads, who now need to work hard to try and get the show back on the road.

Team - Orí Phelan, Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, Tommy Delaney. Alex Firbank, Zach Lawlor, Philip Carrigan 0-1. Conor Hoyne 0-2, Luke Lawlor.

Ned Langton 0-1, Rory Glynn 0-7, 0-4f, Davy Barcoe 0-2. Harry Boyle 0-1, Sean Carrigan 0-1, Dillon Cummins. Subs used Joe Power, James Cody, John Bergin.

U15S FALL SHORT Clara’s U15s shipped a heavy defeat at home to James Stephens on Friday. They were short a few big players and the Village took full advantage. 4-22 to 0-12 was how it finished.

Team - Orí Phelan, Daniel Murphy, James Cody, Tom Murphy. Conor Galvin, Philip Carrigan, Niall McCarthy. Luke Lawlor 0-1, John Bergin. Bill Kealy, Davy Barcoe 0-1f, Sean Bergin 0-2. Tom Boyle, Joe Power 0-7, 0-5f, Darragh Kenny. Subs used Aidan O Connell 0-1, Lukas Healy.

HARD LUCK Commiserations to Kilkenny senior selector Conor Phelan and extended panellist Matt Kenny as the Cats failed to stop three in a row seeking Limerick in Sunday’s pulsating All Ireland hurling final at Croke Park.

Kilkenny died with their boots on but lost out 1-31 to 2-26.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s club lotto (July 12th). Numbers drawn were 9, 12, 24, 25, Bonus 7. Next week’s Big prize will be €10,400 (July 19th). Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors Draw. 1. Barry Lawlor c/o Peter Dowling. 2. Neil Loy. 3. Sophie Bell c/o Nial Tallis. 4. Patty Power c/o Esther Maher. 5. Tanya Cody c/o Mary Cody.6. Lorraine Scanlon c/o Esther Maher. 7. Lilly lougnane c/o online.

8. Pauline Murphy c/o online. 9. Niall O’Callaghan c/o online. 10. Dierdre McGuirk..Thank you for your continued support.

THANK YOU To be able to represent your club with your county must be a special feeling. To play in an All-Ireland Final has got to be spine tingling. To lose it must be gut wrenching. But to sit in the stand and watch your club’s players play like they did on Sunday with such distinction - at the highest level, on the biggest stage and to do it until there’s not another ounce to give, is nothing short of inspirational and a massive source of pride. What role models for our young players. One of which on the bus home said he was sad that he would not be able to watch Paddy play in a Kilkenny jersey again this summer. But when his mother assured him Paddy would be playing in the same club jersey that he plays in in a couple of weeks, he got very excited. So rally around and support our players. Cheer on Paddy, Huw, Mikey, Conor and the boys when club hurling returns. They were brilliant all year. All at O’Loughlin Gaels are very proud.

Thanks to all at Official Kilkenny GAA for a great performance and letting us all be part of an enthralling game that kept us roaring to the final whistle.

Well done to Huw Lawlor on being selected on the Sunday Game’s ‘Team of the Year’ confirming what we already knew that Huw’s the best full back in the country. Lovely hurling.

CAMOGIE Well done to Laura Murphy and Danielle Quigley (Ex panel) who helped Kilkenny to advance to the All-Ireland Semi Final next week. Let’s hope they go another step.

RACE NIGHT - Aug 19th 2022 Race Night Tickets are being distributed to our juvenile players. Please support them by purchasing a ticket - includes admission and entry to raffle for some top prizes. The money raised will help develop facilities for all our hurling, handball and camogie clubs members – floodlights, flood lit Astro turf, wall ball, one wall, dressing rooms, stores and extension to pavilion. Big plans need big support. Please support GOLF CLASSIC The annual O’Loughlin Gaels Golf Classic takes place this year on Thursday 18th (from around 12 noon onwards) and Friday 19th August (the full day) 2022 in the superb Kilkenny Golf Club.

A team of 3 playing our usual Scramble format costs €150, includes a meal afterwards and around 10 excellent prizes to be won. It’s always a great couple of days with prisegiving at around 10pm in the golf club. Any new members/parents of juvenile boys and girls, are most welcome.

Tee-times are filling up fast so contact Michael 0872554300, Benny 0872671882 or Paul 0868191872 to book your time. Tee-box sponsorship is also available from €75/€100.

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15.

Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

Buy a Brick Fundraiser: Was launched recently in Emeralds GAA Club.The Club are aiming to get 100 members to sign up to support this development. A fantastic start was made at the launch with the first 20 signed up.We were very fortunate to receive the maximum Sports Capital Grant of €150k. We now need to raise another €50k ourselves to complete the much needed astro turf and juvenile pitches. We are asking all members to support the future of the club by signing up for the fundraiser. Direct debit form and SPR1 form which allows the club to claim tax relief on donations will be available in the field every evening from Monday. If anyone needs any additional info feel free to contact the Club.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO July 11th prize fund was: €8,700. Jackpot: €6,700. Numbers drawn: 10, 16, 18, 24, bonus no 7. No winner and one match 3 winner: Christy O’Reilly.

Five lucky dips of €20 each: Tuesday Club, Mary Tobin, N. Bambrick, Adam Joyce, Lisa & Catherine. Promoter’s prize: J. Tynan.

Next draw takes place on Monday, July 18th in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4: LTI is recruiting for the new programme in the Centre. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact us for an expression of interest form. More details can be found on our website www.millfrcurlingford.com BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5 - Begins September 2022: We are currently taking names for the Healthcare QQI Level 5 programme starting September 2022. Please contact us if you are interested in completing this course.

Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.

Counselling Services: Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-toOne, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus.

General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression.

Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addictions.

Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This weeks winner of Split the Pot was Cory Watson who won €617.

Congrats Cory!

Tickets €2 are on sale in participating businesses in town with proceeds this week going to Urlingford Irish Dancing Club, thanks to everyone for their support. Be in it to win it!!

URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

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

HOME TO BE WED A couple recently returned from Perth, Australia to be married in Freshford. Caroline Campion and David Raggett and their daughter Fiadh arrived home on 10th June after three years. They were married in St.Lachtains Church Freshford on the 7th July. Born out in Australia it was Fiadh first trip home to Freshford and her first time to meet her grandparents. Caroline is daughter of Terry and Mary Campion of Sart Freshford and David is son of Michael and Mary Raggett of Hugginstown.

The weather was beautiful on the day. The ceremony was performed by Monsgnr Kieron Kennedy PP Freshford. The bride was given in marriage by her father and was attended by Marie Barron as Chief Bridesmaid and her cousin Mairead Purcell. The best man was David Moore and groomsman was Tom Walsh. Flower girl was Fiadh Raggett and the page boys were Jamie Molloy, Eoin and Danny Molloy. Usher was Brian Raggett . The readings were done by Karen McGrath and Emma Raggett. Payers of the faithful were read by Orla Phelan, Maria O’Carroll, Philip Campion, Thomas Dollard and Lisa Raggett. Reflection was done

by Caoimhe Lynch and Emma Hynes and the music was provided by The Three Tones. Reception was held in Newpark Hotel Kilkenny and the couple spent a week in Killarney and will return back to Australia next week. They are wished many years of happiness in their married life together SOCCER AWARDS Congratulations to young local boy Jamie Walsh who was named U13 player of the year recently. Jamie is son of Noel and Catherine Walsh, Sart and is an ardent member of Freshford U13 side and also a keen squash player.

Congrats also to Freshford Town U 17 boys who won the league recently and all the management involved in the victory.

The winners received their medals and award at the Kilkenny and District League awards night last weekend, DAY TRIP Freshford Daycare centre organised a day trip to Glendalough County Wicklow on Wednesday last. It left at 8.30am and returned at 9.30pm. A great day was had by all FOOTBALL CHAMPS When Kilkenny Junior Footballers won the All Ireland final recently defeating New York in the final they had strong local connections. The winning side were trained by local lad JJ Grace who was also part of the management team while Michael Kenny from Grange was playing on the winning side. Well done to all involved in the victory FEILE LACHTAIN 2022.

Féile Lachtain continued recently when Pilgrimage Sunday took place at Freshford in aid of Ionad Lachtan Heritage Centre. There was a sponsored walk started from The Green at 1pm to Clashacrow Church and, after returning to the village, the walkers then completed the pilgrimage by walking to Ballylarkin Church. They were treated to some refreshments after the walks at The Green.

Local artists are invited to submit two pieces of art for an exhibition which will be held at Ionad Lachtain during Arts Week in August. Delivery dates are Tuesday and Wednesday August 2 and 3. Pieces must be ready to hang.

Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 until 4.30. Kevin Buckley’s bust of the late Sr. Patricia is the most recent addition to the museum. Also on display is Kevin’s replica of the Shrine of St. Lachtain’s Arm courtesy of Freshford Community Club and another replica of the shrine created by Pádraig Donnelly.

There are gifts for every occasion on sale in the crafts shop. New additions here include souvenir Freshford greeting cards and carrier bags and clocks set in miniature hurleys and sliotars. While these sport the Black and Amber colours, they can be ordered in any county colours.

Ned Kennedy’s book “Edmund Fitzpatrick Artist and Illustrator” is on sale at O’ Shea’s Shop and all Kilkenny bookshops. Cost €12. It can be ordered by post from O’Shea’s by adding post and packing.

SUMMER CAMP The annual summer camp will take place next week at the GAA Grounds from 25th to 29th July with organiser JJ Grace and his team of helpers.

Bookings are now been taken for the camp which is the oldest camp in the village and has been going for the past number of years very successfully. For more information or for booking please contact JJ on086 8629666 GAA St.Lachtains Junior B hurling team got off to a winning start in the championship at the weekend when they narrowly defeated Bennettsbridge after extra time and penalties. A tight game throughout, the game end in a draw due to a last minute free from Cathal O’ Leary which created extra time which also ended in a draw. Penalties were then the deciding factor with Freshford coming out on top J Burke J Hickey L.Kennedy J.Cantwell P Maher M Donnelly P White C RafterC O’Leary C Power P Killeen C Donnelly C Leahy A Rafter P Campion.

Hard luck to St Lachtains men Darren Brennan and James Maher who are part of the Kilkenny senior panel who were defeated by Limerick in the All Ireland final on Sunday last at Croke Park.

SPLIT THE POT The weekly lucky winner of split the pot draw last week was Paddy Moriarty, Woodview who won €135. The draw takes place each Wednesday. Tickets are just €2 and the winner gets half of the takings. The draw is held each Wednesday and boxes and envelopes can be found in Kavanaghs Bar, Mace, O’Shea’s corner shop, Girls& Guys Hairdressers, Oasis Creche, Freshford Creamery, Freshford Butchers and Prague House.

This months proceeds are going to Freshford Community Café. The Committee would ask you to Please support this fund raiser.

CAMOGIE Congrats to the St.Lachtains U12 camogie girls who were playing during half time in the Quarter final of the Camogie Championship at Thurles on Saturday afternoon last when Kilkenny beat Dublin.

PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area.

Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development Officer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie HELP FOR AL L Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed.

For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808 .

SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie.

LOTTO Dunnamaggin Local Lotto Winning Numbers for July 11th : 5 , 10 , 20 .

Congratulation to Winner Amy Murphy ( Townsends) Jackpot next week (July 18th) € 1,000. Venue Delaney’s Bar Kells at 9pm All Welcome VOLUNTEERS Kilkenny Volunteer Centre: has the following organisations looking for volunteers Website Design Volunteer: Callan First Responders. Callan First Responders who provide vital a life saving service to the Callan Community would love to hear from any volunteer interested in helping them develop a new website to promote their service.

Amber Womens Refuge: Tour de Sportive - Saturday 30th of July. The team at Amber Womens refuge who are one of the charities supported by the event , are providing refreshments at the event and would love to hear from any volunteers who have a couple of hours to spare on the day to help out and keep the cyclists hydrated ! You can channel your inner Mrs Doyle !

Kilkenny Bereavement Support : Listening Volunteers. Listening Volunteers are needed for Kilkenny Bereavement Support in Kilkenny who provide one to one support for individuals who are bereaved . Please note that there is a required 30 hours of training as part of this role.

Teac Tom are looking for Volunteers to help out at Electric Picnic this year.

If camping and music is your thing, while supporting the fantastic work that Teac Tom do this is the role for you.

For more information please log onto www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 0892584946 KILMOGANNY FESTIVAL Kilmoganny Festival Bank Holiday Weekend July 30th and 31st Saturday July 30th: 2pm to 4pm: Afternoon Tea & Caroline Boutique

with a exhibition by James Creaney in St Eoghans Centre. 7pm: BBQ in Dunphys Pub Sunday July 31st: 9am to 12noon: Full Irish Breakfast in St Eoghan’s Centre. 3.30pm: Skills Coaching with Adrian Mullen for Children aged 6 -11 years followed at 4.30pm for the Brendan Fennelly Tribute Match. All takes place at the Kilmoganny GAA pitch. 7pm to late in Dunphys Pub: BBQ followed by ‘The Feck’n Match’ Comedy Play and a Balloon Bursting Raffle with the night finishing with music by ‘2 to Groove’.

Weekend Ticket - €20.00. Saturday Night Only: €10.00. Sunday Night Only: €15.00 Tickets on Sale in Petes or from Alycia 087 6757490 or Lorraine 087 6414147 OUTDOOR BARN DANCE Outdoor Barn Dance in Madge’s Garden Dunnamaggin: the rescheduled Barn Dance takes place on Saturday August 6th in Madge’s Garden from 7pm to 10pm so get your dancing shoes and cowboy hats on and come on down to Madge’s Garden for some Line Dancing. Ray Cahill, line dancing maestro will be on hand to put us through our paces, a BBQ will be available and Ray’s will be open to quench the thirst. €5 on the gate - €10 to include a Burger and mineral. To make a weekend of it our monthly market will take place on Sunday August 7th instead of July 31st from 11.30am to 4pm. From 1pm to 3pm Ray will be on hand to give free Children’s Line Dancing Lessons - spot prizes throughout and one especially for best dressed cowboy and cowgirl. Connect with neighbours and friends - BBQ, Real Lemonade from Gwen’s Stall and lots of craft and food stalls. Keep an eye on our facebook page Dunnamaggin Community News or text 087 7565376 to be included in our Whats App group to keep you up to date with what is happening and what we have planned.

ROSARY Rosary in Dunnamaggin: The rosary will take place the first Monday of every month during the summer at 8pm at Our Lady’s Grotto Baurscobe, Dunnamaggin. All are welcome.

DROICHEAD FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Droichead Family Resource Centre are now enrolling for the Moving on Programme commencing in September 2022. Get Driver Theory, Driving Lessons and Test preparation while training in Employment Skills including Safepass, HACCP and First Aid. Training allowance paid subject to DSP entitlements. For more information contact Droichead Family Resource Centre on (056) 7755660.

Kilkenny Parents Hub will be held in Droichead Family Resource Centre on Wednesday 27 th July from 9.30am-12.30pm. This is a confidential drop in support and advice service for parents / guardians of children 0-18. Family Support Services are available Mon- Fri. For more information call, email or text our Support Workers. Jess (085) 8564950 developmentworker@droicheadfrc.ie Carmel (083) 2098069 familysupport@ droicheadfrc.ie. We are now taking names for Toddlers and Tea Playgroup for toddlers and their grown ups for September. It is a weekly, 90 minute drop in session at Droichead FRC. We have messy/ sensory play activities every week, free play, time indoors and outside plus a story and songs at the end of every session. Get in touch with Jess to book or for some more info (085) 8564950. Droichead Family Resource Centre has a Fully Funded Part Time Course starting in September 2022 on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9.30am-12.30pm. If you are interested in Healthcare and would like a QQI Level 5 Healthcare Support Qualification, contact Back to Education Initiative on (056) 7701020 or email btei@kkadulted.ie for more information.

ST MARY’S CHURCH GOWRAN The church is open for the summer season from 10:00 – 17:30, Wednesday to Sunday. Entrance to the church is free. Visitors can view the many monuments of national importance on display within the church.

GOWRAN AC Well done to Andrew Cooper (Shot Putt) and Billy Coogan (1500m Steeple Chase) who both came 4th at the SIAB International Schools in Belfast.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Juvenile Friday evenings are back at 7 pm on Fridays.

Hard luck to Michae,l losing out to the eventual winner Joe Franklin in the recent semi-final of the National U16 Matchplay in Ryston. Both Michael and Jack were unbeaten in the round robin stage and made it through to the knockout stages. Well done to both players for their great performances.

GOWRAN FESTIVAL OF SPEED The festival is taking place on Sunday, 21st August. Tickets available online, www.gowranpark.ie GOWRAN PARK Tickets are now on sale for Ladies Day on Saturday, July 23rd at www. gowranpark.ie Pink Charity Week takes place all this week at Gowran Park Golf. Call 056 7726699 to participate.

SPORTS ROUND UP MICHAEL O’LEARY NARROW ALL IRELAND FINAL LOSS FOR CAREY AND CATS There was All-Ireland heartbreak for Michael Carey and his Kilkenny teammates as they lost out narrowly 1-31 to 2-26 to Limerick after one of the most epic All-Ireland Final played.

Michael scored a point in the first half as the Cats gave an almighty effort before losing out narrowly to one of the great teams to have played the game.

Despite the obvious disappointment of losing, Michael can look back at a year of great satisfaction where he played every minute of every game in League/Championship, and he will be hopeful of making it back to play All-Ireland Finals again in near future.

STEFFI AND TIFFANY IMPRESS The Fitzgerald Sisters Tiffany and Steffi impressed as Kilkenny eased their way into the All-Ireland Semi-Final following a 2-24 to 1-11 win against Dublin in the Quarter-Final last Saturday evening in Semple Stadium, Thurles.

Kilkenny now play their Semi-Final this coming Saturday in Croke Park against All-Ireland Champions Galway at 5.30pm.

VALIANT DISPLAY A superb contest saw Young Irelands lose out narrowly to neighbours Thomastown 2-18 to 1-19 in the First Round of the Junior Championship last Saturday in Gowran.

A Conor Fitzpatrick goal gave the Gowran Men a 1-5 to 0-4 lead after 13 minutes, but Thomastown slowly clawed their way back and at half-time a solitary point separated the sides. 1-8 to 0-10.

Thomastown took the lead with a Dylan Caulfield goal from a free in the

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Community & GAA Notes 42nd minute (1-12 to 1-10), but Young Irelands replied with two pointed frees by Dylan Carey and a superb effort by Sean Kehoe as they were level by the 48th minute. 1-13 each. However, Thomastown responded, and they outscored Young Irelands 1-5 to 0-6 for the remainder of the game with the decisive goal coming from Jack Holden in the 53rd minute.

The Gowran Men fought to the end with points from Dylan Carey (2 frees), the immaculately exceptional Tommy Phelan and Conor Fitzpatrick but they came up short.

GOALFEST GOWRAN HIT CLARA FOR SIX The Young Irelands Minors continued their highly impressive unbeaten form as they eased to a comprehensive 6-14 to 0-15 victory against near neighbours Clara in Gowran last Monday night week.Ciaran Phelan’s lads displayed a ruthlessness in front of goal, as his sons Ben and Cian on their return to action led the way accounting for 5-7 of their Teams total.

They got off to the best possible start when Cian Phelan grabbed a goal in the very first minute, before brother Ben pointed a free in the 5th minute followed by a goal from Eoghan O’Neill in the 6th minute. 2-1 to 0-0.Clara began to settle down and they dominated the majority of the remainder of the first half.

They added five points in succession to narrow the deficit to four points in the 20th minute (2-3 to 0-5), but the Gowran lads replied with a brilliant third goal in the 23rd minute.

A diagonal delivery from Jake Byrne found Cian Phelan and he struck a magnificent shot from an acute angle as they now led by 7 points. 3-3 to 0-5.That goal settled Young Irelands nerves and they finished the half strongly as point from a Ben Phelan free, Jake Byrne and Michael Keating gave them a 3-6 to 0-6 lead at the interval.

Young Irelands gave a more consistent display throughout the secondhalf and a Ben Phelan goal at the start of the restart put them firmly on their way to victory. 4-6 to 0-6. Clara kept plugging away and three consecutive points between the 32nd and 34th minute narrowed the gap(4-6 to 0-9), but the Gowran lads hit back in the 36th minute for goal number five as another delivery from Jake Byrne found Ben Phelan who rifled his shot to the net. 5-6 to 0-9.

Points were added from a brilliant Jake Byrne volleyed effort, another Ben Phelan free and Eoghan O’Neill as they led 5-9 to 0-9 in the 42nd minute and victory assured.

Goal Number Six arrived in the 52nd minute and it was a brilliant Team goal.

Bobby Brennan’s long-range delivery found Michael Keating in space sprinting towards goal.

Michael displayed great awareness to square the pass to the on running Ben Phelan and he struck the sliotar to the net to complete his hat-trick with brother Cian Phelan in close proximity.

Further points in the final quarter included three pointed frees by Ben Phelan, while Michael Keating also pointed a free after he was fouled himself in the process.

It was a perfect night for Young Irelands as their main rivals in the League table James Stephens lost to Erins Own of Castlecomer.

YOUNG IRELANDS V CLARA: Timothy Brennan, Andrew Corbett, David Langton, Richard Nolan, Shane Simpson, Bobby Brennan, Jim Conlon, James Brennan, Luke Phelan, Cian Phelan(2-0), Eoghan O’Neill(1-1), Jake Byrne(0-2), Diarmuid Langton, Ben Phelan (3-7 0-7 frees), Michael Keating (0-3 0-1 free) U19 HURLERS QUALIFY The Young Irelands U-19 Hurlers Qualified for a League Semi-Final showdown away to Tullogher-Rosbercon (Thursday) following a 2-16 to 1-13 win away in Piltown last Thursday.

U 15 HURLING The two U-15 Teams were in action last week with the U-15 A Team drawing 3-16 to 2-19 against St. Martins, while the U-15 B Team were victorious 5-17 to 3-10 against John Lockes of Callan.

YOUNG IRELANDS ROUNDERS COMPETITION The inaugural Young Irelands Rounders Competition got underway in Young Irelands GAA Pitch last Thursday Night and there was a brilliant turnout with 16 Teams competing to win silverware.

The respective Teams competing are named after sections of the parish and there was a Parading of all Teams before the competition began.

The Teams competing are Cloghala/Castlefield, Ballinabolla, Rockfield and Park Rangers in Pool 1, The Paddocks, Scart, Bradog Way and The Steeplechasers in Pool 2, Clover, Kilmanahan, Paulstown Road and The Steeples in Pool 3 while in Pool 4, Covid Cabin Cruisers, Kyle Road, Clashwilliam United and Stangs/Newtown.

The competition continues most Thursday nights with the Final scheduled for early September.

DANNY DELIGHT There was feature Race success for Danny Mullins at the Killarney Festival last Friday when he partnered The Dara Man to a 9-length victory in the €45,000 Boylesports Handicap Steeplechase.Danny will surely have plenty to look forward to at next week’s Galway Festival.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results June 30th. Nos 1 18 22 32. Jackpot €3050 1st Prize €50 Jason Barry c/o online. 2nd Prize €25 Mary Mahon c/o Patsy Phelan 3rd Prize €25 Orla Neary c/o Ned Buggy. 4th Prize €25 Joe Dwyer c/o Jim Murphy Hurlers Co Op Ticket Maria Hennessy c/o online. Promotors Prize Tom O’Donoghue Next weeks Draw €3200 NEW THIS SUMMER Dicksboro GAA & Camogie Club are delighted to launch a 3 Day Development Camp.

For Ages 12-16’s. 10am to 1pm , 8th, 9th and 10th of August Cost €45.

Organised by Dicksboro Games Promotional Officer, Philly Campion.

TO BOOK visit https://dicksborogaa.com/products. Queries to cathmcpeters@gmail.com CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to Limerick GAA on their All Ireland Title but massive acknowledgement to Kilkenny GAA who had us on the edge of our seats. All in Kilkenny are very proud of this great team and our own Senior Players Cillian Buckley and Evan Cody.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE Well done to Senior Camogie players Aoife, Ciara, Niamh and Asha who had a good win against Dublin in Thurles. They are now through to the All-Ireland Semi Final against Galway.

LISDOWNEY 7’S

Back Row L to R Catherine Hogan, Bridget Holohan, Claire Hendriques, Car Somers Front Row L to R Lady President and front 9 winner Anne O’Shea, Noelle O’Driscoll winner of the Lady Capts Prize, Lady Captain Anne Croke and Betty McGrath Massive Congrats to our u13 Lisdowney 7’s Team who have qualified for the Finals. They had good wins over Clara and Mullinavat. Well done boys and always a fantastic tournament to be involved in.

C NOELLE CLAIMS LADY CAPTAIN ANNE CROKES PRIZE What a great day was had by Lady Captain Anne Croke and all the lady golfers at Callan G.C. on Saturday last with over 70 Ladies playing in support of L.C. Anne. There to support Anne and savour the lovely atmosphere were Anne’s family and her two beautiful grandchildren.The warm weather and super condition of the course thanks to Tommy and greenkeeping staff lent to some very good scores on the day.

Former Cork and Kilkenny county senior camogie star Noelle O’Driscoll who has served as Lady Captain of the golf club herself in the past proved a very popular winner indeed.The presentation of prizes took place in the club house that evening even though a lower key affair with virus in mind, it was pleasant, comfortable and enjoyed very much by all present.

Results: Winner: Noelle O’Driscoll 42pts. 2nd Betty McGrath 39pts. Best Gross Rita O’Neill 23pts. 3rd Caroline Somers 38pts. 4th Mandy O’Brien 37 pts c/b. 5th Claire Hendriques 37pts Past Capt. Noelle Cody 37pts. Committee Bridget Holohan 37pts. 40 plus handicap Catherine Gibbons 36pts. Junior Prize Winner with a super score of 42 pts was Anna O’Brien Winner of 9 Hole Competition, Catherine Hogan 21pts. 2nd Maura Holden 20pts Front 9 Winner. Ann O’Shea 21pts. Back 9 Winner Patsy Murphy 20pts Nearest the pin Betty McGrath. Longest Drive Rita O’Neill July 12th Results 9 Hole. 1st Josie O’Gorman. 2nd Deirdre Holden. 3rd Catherine Hogan 18 Hole. 1st Mandy O’Brien 41 pts. 2nd Kathleen Phelan 38pts. 3rd Berna Walsh 37pts Senior Ladies July 14th The Senior Ladies travelled to the Goldcoast Golf Course for their annual outing.

Format a 3 person team event longest drive and two to score Winners with a massive 113 pts were Carmel O Sullivan, Catherine Gibbons and Anna Starr 2nd Ailish Carey, Margaret O’Shea, Caroline Healy 104 pts. 3rd Marie O’Riordan, Marian Butler and senior Ladies Capt, Mary Croke.

The Tuborg Premier League Results from last Friday July 15th Well with only 2 more nights to go it’s getting very close to the end of the Tuborg Premier League , at the moment there are 7 players fighting for the last 6 places, with only 10 points between them it’s going to be a great battle to see who will survive and make the top 10 . In group 1 Tom Kent made a winning return after being out with a bad injury for the last 4 weeks, his game against Kieran Furlong was a great game, Tom got the start he needed by winning the game 3 legs to 2 , Kieran played brilliant darts, he hit a 14 darter taking out 126 to win the first leg, Tom then took the next 2 legs but Kieran came back to win the 4th leg to bring the game to a deciding leg, Tom played great darts in this leg hitting big scores and getting to the double first and he never gave Kieran a shot at a double. In group 2 Billy Murphy and Mick Kelly came out on top of the group, the game between them was a brilliant game, Mick took the first 2 legs but Billy got it back to 2 legs each by playing fantastic darts, Mick had the darts in the last leg and he needed them, with Billy waiting on 64 after 12 darts Mick took out 116 to win the game in a 15 darter. In group 3 Gez Quiruga playing good darts came out of the group to make it 2 weeks in a row, she is really getting into great form at the moment. Group 4 saw Mick Dwyer Jnr and Michael ( Sully) O Sullivan, both playing superb darts come out of their group, Mick Jnr hit everything he went for, big scores and great finishing, Sully played the very same in all the games, he had some fantastic finishes taking out 142 and 128 in 2 of the legs. Group 5 saw Kieran Lennon, back to his best throwing unbelievable darts in the group, PJ Byrne is another player to watch out for coming to the final stages of the league. In the final group, Timber Jimmy showed his class by winning the group, he literally cut his opponents to bit’s as if he had a chainsaw in his hands, his finishing was up there with the rest of the players, he had a 136 a 127 and a 115 finishes, in one of the games in this group Mick Dwyer Snr threw a fantastic 3 legs, he checked out 99 in the first leg, then he had a 108 finish in the 2nd leg to make it 2 15 darters, then he went and

Noelle O’Driscoll receives her prize from Lady Captain Anne Croke topped it off with a brilliant 12 dart leg checking out 124 to win the game, in the next leg he took out the highest finish in the league so far, he hit an unbelievable 164 to win the game. On to the last 16 games, Tom Kent and Eric Boczon played what could be called a very hard game for both of them, neither of them could get going but it was Tom who took the spoils in this game. The next game was between Mick Kelly and Gez Quiruga, Gez just couldn’t get going in this game and Mick took full advantage of it and won 3 legs to 0 . The 3rd game was between Michael Meaney and Michael Cummins, 2 of the players who are fighting for a top 10 finish, Michael Meaney had a 15 dart leg in the game and got off to a good start, Michael Cummins hit back by winning the next leg in 18 darts and was very unlucky not to go on and win the next leg, he missed the Bull for a 167 hitting the 25 segment of the board, Michael Meaney didn’t let it bother him and went on to win the next 2 legs and the game. Mick Dwyer Jnr and Tommy Dalton played the next game, Mike Jnr played great darts in the game winning 3 legs to 1 , he hit 2 scores of 180 back to back in the second leg and went on to win the leg in 13 darts to make it 1 leg all , Mick Jnr then went on to win the next 2 legs and the game, Tommy is another player who is trying to get in to the top 10 and if he keeps up the way he is playing at the moment he will surely make it . The 5th last 16 game was between 2 of the best players in the league Kieran Lennon and Trevor Vallely , Lenny got the start he needed by winning the first 2 legs in a 17 darter and then a 15 darter, taking out a great 149 for the finish, Trevor won the next leg by checking out a brilliant 137 for a 15 dart leg, Lenny then won the next leg and the game by hitting a 18 darter for a fantastic win. The next game was between 2 local players, Timber Jimmy and Sully, the edge seemed to be a bit dull on Jimmy’s chainsaw as he couldn’t get going against Sully, Timber Jimmy left a double in all the games against Sully but he didn’t get a shot at any of them, Sully’s game is up there with the best of the players and he showed it with his high scoring and high finishing, Sully is another player who is trying to make the top 10 and if he plays the way he is he should get into it. The penultimate game of the last 16 was between David Murphy and PJ Byrne, the 2 Wexford men gave us a brilliant game, lots of high scoring and high finishing, David got off to a great start by winning the first 2 legs, but PJ is not known as a quitter and he threw great darts to make it 2 legs each and bring the game to a final leg decider, David started of the leg by hitting a 140 followed by a 135 and another 140 to leave him down near a double after just 9 darts, PJ couldn’t get his game going , and David went on to win the game. The last game of the last 16 was between Billy Murphy and Ritchie O Hanlon, Billy is playing brilliant darts at the moment and so is Ritchie so it was a game I was looking forward to watching, Billy started off throwing great darts in the game by taking the first 2 legs, Ritchie came back and won the 3rd leg but that was as far as he would get as Billy again threw a fantastic last leg of darts, taking out a 126 for a 15 darter. Down to the Q / Final’s . The first Q / Final saw Tom Kent and Mick Kelly face off , Mick got in front with a great leg of 14 darts, Tom then hit back by winning the next 2 legs, Mick then hit 3 big scores in a row but it wasn’t enough as Tom hit big scores as well getting to the double first and not missing it to secure the win, a fantastic

game to watch . The 2nd Q / Final was between Michael Meaney and Mick Dwyer Jnr, Michael Meaney took off with a brilliant leg , he hit back to back 180’s and left a double after 9 darts but he ended up with a 13 dart leg a great start to the game, Mick Jnr won the next leg playing some very good darts but it was the end of the game for him as Michael Meaney then played great darts to go on and win the next 2 legs and clinch the game.

The next Q / Final game was between Lenny and Sully, both players were drawn against each other in the last 2 weeks in the last 16 games, with Sully coming out on top in both games, Lenny had different ideas about this one and he showed it from the start, he went 2 legs up and was playing brilliant darts, Sully another player who never gives up fought back to win the 3rd leg, but Lenny put his foot on the pedal and went on to win the next leg and the game, another brilliant game to watch. The last Q / Final game was between David Murphy and Billy Murphy , Billy missed the first 4 nights of the league as he was on holidays in Canada visiting his daughter other wise he would be fighting for a top 10 place, David on the other hand is on top of the league and is playing brilliant darts, Billy got of to a great start winning the first leg in 16 darts, David won the next 2 legs playing great darts in both legs, Billy fought back by winning the next leg to make it 2 legs all and bringing it to the last leg, David had a fantastic last leg to win the game by hitting a 14 darter with Billy waiting on 87 , both players are playing unbelievable darts and I wouldn’t bet against either of them on the Grand Finals night. The first S / Final saw Tom Kent versus Michael Meaney, as the game goes it was a classic game, Tom took of like a house on fire, I was going to tell the bartender Niall Shortall to throw some water over him he was playing so well, he took the first leg in 14 darts and then took the second leg in 15 darts, Michael Meaney is one of the best players in the game at the moment so he wasn’t phased by the way Tom started of , he took out 112 for an 18 darter then he went on to win the next leg in 15 darts to make it 2 legs each, Tom went on to throw some great stuff in the last leg but Michael showed his class by winning the last leg in 14 , a fantastic game of darts to watch. On to the 2nd S / Final, David Murphy against Lenny, another game that had everything, Lenny got of to a perfect start by winning the first leg, David hit back by winning the next 2 legs throwing excellent darts, Lenny then won the next leg in 14 darts to bring it to the final leg, David got of to the better start and he was so consistent in his scoring that he was first to the double and he didn’t miss it to win the game and make it through to the Final. Michael Meaney and David Murphy contested the final of The Tuborg Premier League in what was one of the best games played in a long time, Michael got it underway with an unbelievable 13 darter, David then had a 14 darter to make it 1 leg all , David then won the next leg in 18 darts to go 2 legs to 1 up, Michael Meaney then hit an 18 darter to leave the game level at 2 legs each, the last leg was all down to whoever kept their nerves, David started well but Michael playing some of the best darts of his career went on to win the last leg and the game to become the first player to win 3 nights of the league. On to a few of the local players who are playing great darts in the league at the moment, Jim Shanahan is playing brilliant darts, he’s not getting any breaks at the moment, Tommy Cleere is another player who is throwing great darts, he had another great game in his group by taking out a 144 for a 15 darter to win one of his legs, Pat Cullen had a night to remember, he had a 14 and a 15 darts legs in his group, Eric Boczon played a fantastic leg in which he checked out 135 hitting a 25 a treble 20 and then the Bull for a brilliant finish, Paddy Byrne was unlucky not to make it to the last 16 as was Mickey O Keeffe who played great darts all night but couldn’t hit the doubles when they got their shot , Liam Murphy from Main Street Stoneyford is another player who is playing great stuff at the moment, he took out an unbelievable finish in taking out a 152 hitting Treble 20 Treble 20 and then Double 16 , another great leg by Liam, Ritchie O Hanlon is a player who is one to keep an eye on as he can beat anyone on his night, his game is at an all time high. Ok I will see ye all night in Andy’s Bar Ballyhale for Round 11 of The Tuborg Premier League next Friday night.

Laois Man Jim Shanahan and local player Jimmy ( Timber ) O Dwyer who are playing great darts in The Tuborg Premier League

Michael Meaney and David Murphy Michael beat David in the Final of The Tuborg Premier League Round 11

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Hurling matters

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final Croke Park, Dublin July 17th Limerick 1-31 Kilkenny 2-26

Limerick are All-Ireland Senior Hurling Champions for a third year running, following an epic encounter with Kilkenny at headquarters. When referee Colm Lyons sounded the long whistle, the Treaty County were two points to the good and the massive sea of green celebrated euphorically.

In time, this will be viewed as one of the great finals. This clash between the ‘new’ giants and hurling’s most successful ever county had a little bit of everything, drama, tension, skill, passion. You name it, it had it.

While Limerick led for long parts of the contest, Kilkenny refused to buckle and kept plugging away to ensure that this was one of the hardest earned titles for Limerick since their re-emergence in 2018.

Every time the Cats asked questions of John Kiely’s side, the men in green answered, and their ability to do this eventually saw them home.

An early long range free from Patrickswell’s Diarmaid Byrnes opened the scoring with just under two minutes on the clock and Limerick soon added to this with a stunning goal from POTM, Gearóid Hegarty. A long ball sent towards the Kilkenny defence by keeper Nickie Quaid was cleverly kicked into the path of the marauding Hegarty, who showed great skill in getting the sliotar to hand before unleashing a fierce shot on the angle past Eoin Murphy in the Noresiders goal. Quite simply, a stunning finish.

Aaron Gillane then showed good improvisation when he lost his hurl, but still had the presence of mind to kick the ball over the ball to make it 1-2 to no score with almost 6mintues played. Kilkenny needed a score, and when that’s the case its normally TJ Reid that obliges and he do so from the placed ball.

Mikey Carey then took a wonderful catch before launching a pass towards Eoin Cody. The Shamrocks man took possession before rifling over a lovely point from out on the left under the Hogan Stand. Gillane TJ exchanged frees before O’Loughlin’s Paddy Deegan was turned over having taken a fine

Cats fall to Limerick machine in epic final

Photos

by INPHO

First 3-in-a-row for the Treaty Mikey Carey - bright future ahead

Brian Cody - was full of praise for his panel

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Hurling matters Walter Walsh massive impact

The REAL T

catch, Kildimo-Pallaskenry’s Kyle Hayes said thank you very much and sent over the point.

From Eoin Murphy’s puck-out, Byrnes took another stunning catch before firing over from inside his own half. Brian Cody’s side then hit a couple of quick-fire points via Paddy Deegan and Mossy Keoghan to to leave just a goal between the sides with 14 pulsating minutes gone at Croker. Tommy Walsh then mis-hit his sideline cut and Tom Morrissey took full advantage and slotted between the posts for a Treaty point.

That man Hegarty then took possession out on the right and duly pointed to highlight his influence on the proceedings.

The Reid brothers then hit a point each to reduce the gap to one score, but Hegarty again was finding it all too easy to find space and sent over another exhibition style point. Some good pressure saw the Cats turn the ball over via TJ, who’s pass sent Mikey Carey in for an easy point, before Aaron Gillane gathered the sliotar, took a couple of hits and fired over a nice point having shortened the grip to make the shot.

Seamus Flanagan then took possession from the puck out and split the posts with another mighty score. TJ then showed more of his nous by finding club mate Adrian Mullen under the Cusack Stand with a short pass.

Mullen somehow managed to strike over from the far sideline for a classy point. While the game was flowing nicely, referee Colm Lyons in my opinion was a little quicker to award those in green frees, than others in black and amber.

Diarmaid Byrnes then took advantage of this and popped over a free some 30 metres

Mikey Butler - will be around for more finals

from his own net. An unbelievable strike from a free that should never have been.

Hawk Eye was then deployed for the first time in the game on 25 minutes after that man Hegarty struck another mighty shot, and after the technological intervention, the point stood. Limerick’s lead was now 6 points. The little warrior that is O’Loughlin’s Mikey Butler was then fouled and TJ popped over the placed ball from wide on the left side.

Limerick’s Gillane then registered another free for his side.

TJ, who was again demonstrating his legendary status, picked out Paddy Deegan with a lovely pass and the Kilkenny No.7 evaded a challenge before rifling over a lovely long-range score. Limerick captain Declan Hannon was then afforded the freedom of Croke Park and fired over his customary score; not enough pressure applied in this case. TJ registered another couple of frees for the Cats, while Kyle Hayes replied for the Treaty. Tullaroan’s Padraig Walsh then got on score sheet but those in green hit back immediately through a nice point from the defensive based Morrissey brother, Dan. Padraig Walsh then got his second score of the day, before Seamus Flanagan did likewise for Limerick.

The final score of a fast and furious first half came from a TJ placed ball, after Billy Ryan was halted illegally.

At the short whistle, the holders led by 4, 1-17 to 0-16. TJ Reid and Gearoid Hegarty the main men on show in a cracking opening period, in which the champions scored 1-14 from play.

Brian Cody chose to make one change during the interval.

Tullogher-Rosbercon’s Walter Walsh replacing the Village’s Cian Kenny for the second half.

Kilkenny won the throw-in and went on the attack, but Eoin Cody’s effort was off target. From the restart, Hegarty won the ball and passed to his partner in crime, Kyle Hayes who notched his 3rd point of the game.

Gillane then got the better of Huw Lawlor and just like it seemed the goal was opening up from him, he opted for raising a white flag to push his sides lead back out to 6 points.

Then hope was well and truly restored to the Cats players and supporters.

A long puck out was collected

by Walter Walsh who powered his way in from the right before flicking the ball across goal. Mossy intelligently let the sliotar run past him and Billy Ryan collected it and fired past Limerick keeper Quaid to the net! Game on!

The sides then traded points, Hegarty for Limerick, Adrian Mullen for Kilkenny. Diarmaid Byrnes then added a ‘65 to his tally after Tommy Walsh deflected an effort that was going wide behind.

The Cats defence then crowded out a Treaty attack, before launching an attack of their own. Eoin Murphy found Walter with a lovely pass and the big man split the posts from under the Hogan! Walsh was having a massive impact. The biggest impact on the game was that of Hegarty, the monster of a man was enjoying his tussle with Paddy Deegan, and drew a foul that irked the defender. Gillane pointed, now a 4-point game.

The Cats faithful then dared to dream again. Captain Richie Reid played a long ball towards his brother.

TJ as per usual fielded it brilliantly and despite losing his stick hand passed towards the danger zone.

Eoin Cody stretched to flick the sliotar towards Mossy, who gathered the ball, turned and fired to the Treaty net! 47 minutes played, now just the bare minimum between the sides.

Thomastown’s John Donnelly, only on the pitch a matter of seconds, then fired over a stunning point from half way. all square in Croker!

Kiely’s men were certainly being tested, and again they responded.

Hegarty passed to Tom Morrissey who fired over to calm the Limerick supporters’ nerves. Brynes landed another free, before Morrissey repeated his earlier score. From all square, to a 3-point lead for the reigning champions. Tom would land his 3rd point just after TJ registered a free from his own half.

Incredible stuff. TJ struck another placed ball over after Paddy Deegan was fouled, and Adrian Mullen then got his 3rd of the day , another stunning score form the Ballyhale warrior.

Cats boss Cody then sent on Richie Hogan for Eoin Cody and it proved fruitful immediately. Fellow sub, David Blanchfield picked out Hogan who composed himself, before firing over a cracking score and punching the air in delight. Limerick’s response? 3 points on the spin via Kyle Hayes and subs Conor Boylan and Cathal O’Neill. Paddy Deegan then fouled Hayes and Arron Gillane slotted the free. Limerick now 4 ahead.

The game was now entering 4 minutes of added time. The next score needed to be a Kilkenny one, but Hegarty would take that honour and notch his 5th point of the day.

Cody’s Cats did not give up, they rattled off 3 more points, Tommy Walsh, Alan Murphy and David Blanchfield. The gap was back to 2 points. Time was not to be their friend, as Colm Lyons sounded the long whistle. A massive effort from all in black and amber, but Limerick regain their crown. Final score, Limerick 1-31, Kilkenny 2-26.

Scorers for Limerick: G. Hegarty (15); A. Gillane (0-7, 3 frees); D. Byrnes (0-5, 3 frees, 1 65); T. Morrissey, K. Hayes (0-4 each); S. Flanagan (0-2); D. Hannon, D. Morrissey, C. O’Neill, C. Boylan (0-1 each).

Scorers for Kilkenny: T.J. Reid (0-9, frees); M. Keoghan (1-1); B. Ryan (1-0); A. Mullen (0-3); P. Deegan, P. Walsh (0-2 each); E. Cody, R. Reid, M. Carey, W. Walsh, J. Donnelly, R. Hogan, T. Walsh, A. Murphy, D. Blanchfield (0-1 each).

LIMERICK: N. Quaid; S. Finn, M. Casey, B. Nash; D. Byrnes, D. Hannon (c), D. Morrissey; W. O’Donoghue, D. O’Donovan; G. Hegarty, K. Hayes, T. Morrissey; S. Flanagan, A. Gillane, G. Mulcahy.

Subs for Limerick: P. Casey for G. Mulcahy (49); D. Reidy for D. O’Donovan (52); C. Boylan for S. Flanagan (60); C. O’Neill for T. Morrissey (64).

KILKENNY: E. Murphy; M. Butler, H. Lawlor, T. Walsh; M. Carey, R. Reid (c), P. Deegan; C. Kenny, C. Browne; A. Mullen, P. Walsh, E. Cody; T.J. Reid, M. Keoghan, B. Ryan.

Subs for Kilkenny: C. Fogarty for C. Browne (temp 17-25); J. Donnelly for P. Walsh (47); D. Blanchfield for C. Browne (53); R. Hogan for E. Cody (59).

Referee: C. Lyons (Cork).

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Camogie

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Senior Camogie Semi-Final Galway vs Kilkenny Saturday 5:30pm, Croke Park All eyes will be on headquarters tomorrow as our camog’s take on old foes and reigning champions Galway for a place in this year’s senior camogie final in what will be a repeat of the 2020 decider which Kilkenny emerged victorious.

The stripey women arrive in the last four, courtesy of a 16-point win over Dublin last weekend, and will be full of confidence as the seek to avenge a go one better than the drawn game in Athenry earlier this month.

Key to the quarter-final win last week and their progress to date this season, has been an incredible work-rate and determination to prevail. Coupled with some outstanding attacking performances from the likes of Denise Gaule and Miriam Walsh, to name but two, it has been the overall team ethic and overwhelming desire to repeat 2020’s feat that drives these ladies on.

Going into tomorrow’s last four encounter with the Tribeswomen, Kilkenny have both the overall championship top scorer and top scorer from play to date in their ranks, in the shape of both the players named above!

Denise Gaule leads the overall chart with a highly impressive 2-61, while Miriam Walsh has a stunning 8-19 from play.

The management will know that he needs both these ladies to be firing on all cylinders when they take to the pitch at Croker tomorrow. It would however to be foolish to think that Gaule & Walsh are the only threats that the Noresiders have in their pack. Factor in Katie Nolan, Mary O’Connell and the returning Julieann Malone and this version of Dowling’s Cats are a real handful.

In the absence of the likes of Aoife Doyle, her sister Kellyann through injury, the recently retired Davina Tobin and Collette Dormer, the travelling Meighan Farrell, and all of a sudden you get a glimpse of the strength in depth of the camog’s panel.

We have had some good battles with the westerners of the last couple of years, and given the last couple of results, we perhaps owe Cathal Murray’s side one! The most recent meeting at Kenny Park in Athenry was a real humdinger of an encounter, I for one thought Miriam Walsh’s stunning score from an impossible angle had secured the direct route to the last four, but Aine Keane’s score deep into stoppage time gave Galway the draw they needed to progress to the last four on scoring difference.

That sunny but windy day out west saw one of Aoife Norris’s best performances in the black and amber, as she pulled off save after save to keep her county in the game at times.

We can rely on Aoife doing ‘Aoife things’ at Croker tomorrow, should our last line of defence be called into action. Piltown’s netminder not only provides a final barrier at the back, but also a platform for attacks to start via her puck outs. Once again these will be vital in the wide-open spaces at the Jones’s Road venue as we seek to reach the decider again.

In front of Norris will be a full-back line marshalled by Tullaroan’s Grace Walsh. The tenacious Walsh appears to have found her form again and has been a real force in the Kilkenny rearguard. The other ‘constant’ this season has been the experienced Claire

Semi shootout on the cards at Croker!

Kilkenny primed for final push Photos

by INPHO

Denise Gaule - battle ready

Brian Dowling bidding for another final tilt

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Camogie Claire Phelan her experince will be vital in Croker

Katie Nolan will look to cause the Galway defence problems

POTM vs Dublin Miriam Walsh is in scintilating form

Phelan. The Lisdowney woman sometimes is used as a ‘spare’ player or sweeper, and her intelligent reading of the game allows Phelan to snuff out danger and put her team on the front foot.

Another player who has impressed this season has been Tiffanie Fitzgerald. The Young Irelands star has really settled well into senior inter-county camogie, and just like her ‘big’ sister Steffi, the younger Fitz is not afraid to get stuck in. Again, qualities that will be required against the Tribeswomen tomorrow afternoon.

In terms of Steffi, it will be interesting to see who gets the nod to partner her in the engine room against those in maroon. Against the Dubs, Katie Power was Fitzgeralds ‘plus-one’ in midfield, the legendary Piltown player appeared to revel in the role. The fact that this year’s captain, Aoife Prendergast is not a certain starter, again tells you the depth of talent in the county.

Tomorrow’s opponents Galway, to possess a strong panel that is hell-bent on defending their All-Ireland crown. They are perhaps playing this down via the ‘one game a t a time’ cliché, but this bunch have the belief and possibly the talent to back this up.

Sarah Dervan is the mainstay of the Tribeswomen’s defence, be that at No.3 or No. 6.

Heather Cooney, Siobhan Gardiner and Dervla Higgins are other notable players in the defensive unit for the westerners. The latter two players are also more than capable of notching the odd point as well. The Kilkenny forwards will not get anything easy off their markers at Croker.

The middle third for Galway is likely to see Aoife Donohoe and Niamh Kilkenny patrolling this vital zone. Both these players will cover plenty of ground and Kilkenny especially likes to break forward and trouble the score board. The engine room battle will definitely be one to watch.

Galway’s answer to Denise Gaule is Carrie Dolan. The Clarenbridge forward, like our Windgap wonder is deadly accurate from the placed ball, but also offers so much more to the team. Ahead of Dolan in the attacking unit we should find Siobhan McGrath and Sabina Rabbitte. Athenry club woman Rabbitte has been a revelation since entering the senior set-up and was a real menace last time out against tomorrow’s opponents, scoring 1-3 and winning the POTM award.

The Kilkenny defence will need to restrict the ball going into Rabbitte and also not give her any space to operate in.

Brian Dowling will have done his homework and be ready for the challenge that Cathal Murray’s side will undoubtedly bring. For the Kilkenny players it simple.

De-throne the champions and the chance of lifting another O’Duffy Cup is very much on.

SCORERS FOR KILKENNY: D Gaule 1-10(1-0 pen, 0-10fs); M Walsh 1-3; K Nolan 0-3; M O’Connell 0-2; M Bambrick, L Murphy, K Power, S Dwyer, J Malone, M Kenneally 0-1 each SCORERS FOR DUBLIN: A Maher 0-9(8fs); N Gannon 1-1; A O’Neill 0-1 (f) KILKENNY: A Norris, M Teehan, G Walsh, M Bambrick, T Fitzgerald, C Phelan, L Murphy, S Fitzgerald, K Power, J Malone, M O’Connell, M Kenneally, M Walsh, D Gaule, K Nolan. Subs: N Deely for Teehan (44); A Prendergast for Bambrick (47); S Crowley for Malone, A McHardy for O’Connell (both 55) DUBLIN: E Mooney, M Kelleher, C Buchanan, E O’Brien, R Baker, H Hegarty, E O’Brien, A Maher, G Couch, E Flanagan, N Gannon, J Couch, E Jamieson Murphy, A O’Neill, A Twomey. Subs: K Finnegan for Twomey (37), L Butler for Flanagan (42), E Young for REFEREE: Justin Heffernan (Wexford)

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Motors Classifieds

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

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Planning Memoriams/Miracle notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We at Mahon | Fox hereby give notice of an application to Kilkenny County Council for Permission for (a) the proposed extension to an existing waste metal processing and storage facility to provide additional storage for processed waste metal materials and shredded rubber tyres, (b) a new weighbridge and weighbridge office, (c) a new storage shed for the storage of precious metals, (d) the change of use and refurbishment of existing manufacturing sheds to a vehicle repair shed, a depollution shed and additional storage shed for the storage of processed waste metal, (e) the installation of stormwater attenuation tanks, (f) the extension and reconfiguration of an existing access road, (g) the erection of a 1.8m high concrete wall to the north east/ south east boundaries, (h) the erection of gates to the site access road to the south west, (i) the erection of a flood gate to the top of the exisiting slip way together with all associated site works on site at Raheen, Rosbercon, New Ross, Co. Kilkenny. This Application will be accommpanied by an EIAR screening and a Natura Impact Statement.

The planning application, the EIAR screening and the Natura Impact Statement 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 : Mahon | Fox, Iberius House, Common Quay Street, Wexford. Phone: 053 9122601 on behalf of Molloy Metals Recycling Ltd. KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Further Information to P22226 We, Patrick Butler and Siobhan Anderson Butler,intend to submit Significant Further Information in relation to P22226 Further information consists of (a)Addition to P22226 for permission for Retention of Access Road from existing Agricultural entrance and associated change to site boundary to allow for inclusion of retention permission in P22226.

All at Knockshanbally,Johnswell,Co.Kilkenny The Significant Further Information submission 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.

Patrick Butler Siobhan Anderson Butler KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Ann-Marie Grace for full planning permission to construct a 2 storey dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works Church Hill, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny.

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

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.DM.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.DM.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.

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.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.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. A.S.

48

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 22 July 2022