Kilkenny Observer 23 January 2026

Carers hit by tax bill

But Taoiseach reassures 90%

The Taoiseach has told TDs that nothing has changed regarding carers and taxes. It came after Sinn Féin complained about a wave of fear caused by thousands of letters sent out by Revenue. Mr Martin said: “About 90% of carers are either registered already, or are not liable for tax.”

His remarks came as 34,000 carers recieved letters from Revenue of family carers and fear being hit with tax bills going back years after Revenue gained access to data on their payments.

The move comes after the Department of Social Protection started sharing data files

One man and his viola …

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) will return to Waterford and East Cork from May 26 to June 1 for a week of exceptional opera and classical music in some of the region’s most striking historic settings.

Ireland’s summer opera festival will present over 24 events, with more than 100 performers across 13 historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan and Castlemartyr.

Our photos show Remi Ludick, with his viola, winner of the John Pollard Recital Prize, before his performance at a sold-out recital at Salterbridge House, Cappoquin, as part of last year’s Blackwater Valley Opera Festival.

of 34,000

on those receiving Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Benefit payments with the Revenue Commissioners.

Department files have only been going to the tax authority since the start of this month.

Now Revenue has written to 34,000 family carers tell-

marked out by Revenue

ing them that their payments have always been taxable and warning those who have not been declaring the payments as income that they may owe back tax.

Payments to carers have always been subject to taxation but were previously selfdeclared. Under the new sys-

tem, tax on income from the payments will be collected in real time, similar to other payments from the Department of Social Protection.

Revenue has said it met with Family Carers Ireland and Care Alliance Ireland in April of last year to outline the new process.

More old folk face homelessness

Elderly people in the community are increasingly facing homelessness. Soaring rents and an acute shortage of affordable accommodation have led to a 12% jump in just 12 months in the number of seniors facing homelessness.

New figures show that the number of people aged 65 and older now reliant on emergency homelessness support rose to 267 in No-

vember, up from 238 the previous January.

Thirteen now face homelessness in the south-east.

There was a 7.2% rise in elderly homelessness between June and November of last year alone.

The rate has more than doubled in the space of five years, rising by 119% since January 2020, when 122 elderly people were reliant on emergency homelessness support.

Experts fear spiralling rents, allied to the cost of living and other issues, are a core component of the worrying trend.

A Department of Housing study indicated that, in January 2025, there were a total of 238 elderly people facing homelessness nationwide – with 127 of those in the Greater Dublin area.

Other regions dealing with the problem of elderly people at risk of homelessness in-

cluded the south-east (13), mid-east (26), midlands (5), mid-west (11), north-east (8), north-west (6), south-west (18) and west (24).

Seán Moynihan, CEO of Alone, the national organisation supporting older people, has cautioned that the expanding cohort of older renters will pose major challenges, especially in the context of the limited supply available through HAP.

A key issue highlighted by the study is policy gaps arising from mistaken assumptions that older age in Ireland is characterised by home ownership or secure rental tenure.

“In reality, reliance on private housing markets, rising rents and house prices, insufficient pension incomes, and a lack of age-friendly housing are increasing vulnerability among older people,” it says.

Tracy Carroll is the mother of 11-year-old Noah and nineyear-old Willow. She told RTÉ Radio 1’s Liveline that Willow has complex medical needs and requires 24/7 care. While she is in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, Ms Carroll said she expected to lose it following a means test.

Trump pulls back on threats over Greenland after talks with NATO

Donald Trump has said he will not impose planned tariffs on a number of European countries after claiming a “framework” had been agreed for a future deal relating to Greenland and the wider Arctic region. In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump said the decision followed a “very productive meeting” with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. He said the proposed tariffs, which were due to take effect on February 1, would be waived.

Ireland remains cautious about deploying the so-called “big bazooka” economic mechanism against the US, despite Europe moving closer to using the trade weapon in response to Trump’s threats. Ireland: Special Report Page 14

Well, that dowel was a Wordle…

Analysis of Google search data reveals the hardest Wordle puzzle in Ireland for 2025. Top 10 hardest were:

1. Dowel (May 11, 2025).

2. Minty (August 10, 2025).

3. Rough (June 1, 2025).

4. Whole (July 27, 2025).

5. Atria (July 6, 2025).

6. G nome (July 13, 2025).

7. Laugh (April 13, 2025).

8. Livid (May 18, 2025).

9. Thrum (June 22, 2025).

10. Blank (July 20, 2025).

Full story Page 10

PHOTO: Matt Brooker

Whiskey-A-Go-Go for Kilkenny and the SE

Whiskey enthusiasts and industry veterans will converge on Kilkenny and Wexford this February as the South East Whiskey Festival launches an extended programme of events. Now in its fourth year, the festival is set to be a sell-

out success as it expands its footprint across the South East. Initially established in 2023 by South East men

Johnnie Barron (The Sky & The Ground pub), Daithí O’Connell (O’Connell

Whiskey Merchants) and Michael Cowman (Good Spirits Bottling), the 2026 festival will run from Friday, February 26 to Sunday, February 28, showcasing the exciting depth of Irish whiskey through 16 intimate master-

classes over the weekend.

The festival kicks off with an exclusive event on Thursday, February 25. Bonders’ Dinner: Paris Texas will host an exclusive four-course bonders’ dinner, pairing exceptional food with an incredible selec-

Whisky or whiskey? Scotch v Irish

Scotch whisky is always spelled without the “e”. In order to be officially called Scotch whisky, the spirit must mature in oak for at least three years. Production and maturation must take place in Scotland. Single malt Scotch whisky must be made from 100% malted barley.

Irish whiskey is always spelled with an “e”. Irish whiskey uses little or no peat, so there is usually no smokiness in these whiskies. Irish whiskey may contain a distillate of malt, a barley distillate and a portion of grain spirit. Irish whiskey is distilled three times. Like Scotch whisky, Irish whiskey must be matured for a legal minimum of three years. As for America’s bourbon and rye whiskies, and the rise of the Japanese ‘drop of the queer stuff’, that’s for another day’s drinking session…

tion of whiskeys from Ireland’s finest bonders.

Across that weekend, master distillers and blenders representing Method and Madness, Ballykeefe, Teeling, Liberator, Ardara Distillery, Redbreast, Dingle, Clonakilty, West Cork, Copeland, Micil, Bushmills and Dunville’s will present in a variety of venues across both counties.

Marking a first appearance at the festival will be Old Comber, with head distiller and Kilkenny man Niall Bolger from Echlinville Distillery hosting a festival whiskey tasting in Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny, on the Friday.

Another festival highlight is the distillery tour at neighbouring Royal Oak Distillery, Carlow, where Global Brand Ambassador Woody Kane will lead guests on an in-depth

tour and guided tasting. Transport to and from the distillery from Kilkenny City is included in the ticket price. Tickets for all masterclasses are limited and priced at €20 per event.

Speaking about this year’s festival, co-founder Daithí O’Connell said: “When we launched this festival four years ago, we wanted to create an event that was a little bit different. There are so many distilleries now with mature stock that we wanted to celebrate the integrity of Irish whiskey and its future potential. This festival is about meeting the makers, hearing the stories and promoting Irish-made products.”

• Tickets are available for purchase online at whiskeyfestival.ie.

Go on, indulge yourself with a Suite Treat at Newpark

Enjoy an indulgent Kilkenny stay for less this winter. The Newpark Hotel Kilkenny is offering 20% off its Signature Suite Experiences for January, February and March.

Timed to coincide with a season filled with reasons to escape – from St Brigid’s Bank Holiday and Valentine’s Day to International Women’s Day, Mother’s Day,

St Patrick’s Day and the early Easter break – the offer provides the perfect opportunity for a restorative mini-break.

Each Suite Treat stay includes breakfast, a chilled bottle of prosecco on arrival, rose petal turndown and indulgent chocolates, creating a sense of occasion from the moment guests arrive.

Whether marking an anniversary, birthday, or simply

A good year for farmers, says Tirlán Co-op chair

Tirlán Co-op’s farm family suppliers in Kilkenny turned out in large numbers, both in person and online, for the Co-op’s Business & Market Outlook 2026 Meeting Series. Management updated suppliers on the latest market outlook, priorities for 2026 and beyond, and outlined the practical supports available as farm families prepare for spring.

Speaking at the information meeting in the Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny, Tirlán Chairperson John Murphy said 2025 would go down as one of the best years for dairy farming, with strong milk prices, favourable weather, and milk volumes rising 7% year-on-year.

John Murphy highlighted Tirlán’s pivotal role in securing the extension to the Nitrates Derogation, supported by extensive engagement with Irish and EU stakeholders and clear environmental progress on farms. He cautioned that 2026 will be a more challenging year on the dairy front, due to global milk supply and demand dynamics.

“Demand has remained solid, but global milk supply is very strong. We operate in a very high-cost environment and we are very mindful of this. But hopefully, as we progress, we will see markets improve and green shoots again. We will do our very best to support our farmers. These markets will pass – they always do. We are a Co-op, owned and governed by farmers, and we are here to operate for the sole benefit of farmers.”

Tirlán CEO Seán Molloy confirmed Tirlán farmers delivered record milk intake in 2025. The Co-op placed

taking time out together, the experience is carefully curated to feel unhurried, personal and quietly luxurious.

Among the hotel’s most sought-after accommodation, the Balcony Hot Tub Suites offer a particularly special retreat. Located on Newpark’s adults-only floor, these suites feature private outdoor hot tubs set on fur-

nished balconies overlooking the hotel’s gardens, offering a rare combination of privacy and open-air relaxation.

The adults-only designation ensures a calm and peaceful atmosphere, appealing to couples, friends and those travelling without children.

Guests can also enjoy all the hotel has to offer, as well as its surroundings. Newpark’s

Escape Health Club & Spa provides further opportunities for unwinding, including an outdoor infinity pool.

Just minutes from Kilkenny city centre, the hotel is also perfectly positioned for discovering the city’s medieval streets, cultural attractions and vibrant dining scene.

With seasonal events, cultural highlights and outdoor experiences unfolding across

the city and county, the Suite Treat is available for a limited time only, starting from €230, with bookings open now until 26 March. As always, the best rates are available when booking directly through the hotel. For more information or to book, visit newparkhotelkilkenny.com or contact the reservations team on +353 56 7760500.

an additional 40,000 tonnes of dairy ingredients on the market and ended the year with near-record-low stock levels. He stated that despite volatility and tariff uncertainty, the Co-op closed 2025 in a robust financial position.

“While the year ahead, particularly the first half, will bring its challenges, it is important to recognise that our markets are cyclical in nature and recovery will occur. Tirlán will also do all in its power to help our farmers during this period of market downturn. We enter 2026 on a firm footing.

“Our priority remains to add value to each litre of milk and each tonne of grain. Efficiency and cost discipline remain a strategic priority for our management team. We will continue to pursue opportunities for our investment fund.

“And above all, we will continue to build a Co-op of the future that is progressive, financially strong and farmer-focused — a Co-op that maximises total returns to our farmers and a business that is proud to speak out for our farmers, and attract and retain the best talent.”

Seán Molloy said Tirlán paid an average of 54.6 cent per litre, including constituents, for milk last year, as well as agri-trade supports and dividends from the Co-op. When added together, Tirlán delivered an internationally leading total value return to members, he said. Milk leagues did not include all such payments and, therefore, were not an accurate reflection of the Co-op’s actual returns to farmers.

See also Page 10

A new chapter for our library …

Kilkenny Library Service has announced the launch of its new Library Development Plan, Creating Vibrant and Sustainable Communities 2025–2029. This forward-thinking strategy sets out our vision for the coming years, ensuring that libraries remain dynamic spaces where knowledge, culture and connection thrive at the heart of the community.

This plan provides a strategic roadmap for how the library service will grow, innovate and adapt — enhancing services and facilities while meeting the evolving needs of our communities, embracing new

opportunities, and ensuring we remain a trusted resource for everyone.

The plan focuses on:

• User experience: Placing people at the heart of what we do by taking a usercentred approach to the development of operations, services and programmes.

• Community connectivity and cultural engagement: Building and encouraging meaningful civic and cultural connection and participation, offering spaces for people to connect, engage and share.

• Knowledge and innovation: Adopting an innovative approach to creating, sharing and using knowl-

edge in an evolving technological environment.

• Literacy and learning: Supporting the development of literacy skills, including practical, critical and digital skills, in line with growing skill and ability demands.

• Sustainability and adaptability: Implementation of sustainability and adaptability measures to ensure long-term resilience and to ensure we meet community needs effectively.

“Kilkenny’s libraries are central to life in our communities,” said Cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh, “and this ambitious

plan will foster vibrant, sustainable communities where knowledge, culture and connection flourish.” County Librarian Josephine Coyne commented, “By embracing innovation, inclusivity and adaptability, Kilkenny Library Service will continue to be a trusted local resource — empowering Kilkenny’s people and shaping a better future.”

Pictured above: County Librarian Josephine Coyne, Director of Services Fiona Deegan, Cathaoirleach Mary Hilda Cavanagh, and Senior Executive Librarian Aisling Kelly.

Kilkenny GAA players all set for Féile at Croke Park

Fun and friendship, along with the invaluable input of volunteers, must never be taken for granted by the GAA, according to Uachtarán CLG Jarlath Burns.

He was welcoming the announcement of an extension of John West’s sponsorship of Féile at Croke Park.

Hundreds of young Kilkenny GAA players will take part in competitions at county level in 2026, seeking to qualify for the national finals in June.

John West has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to the GAA’s national under-

15 Gaelic games celebration, across all four codes and grades, until 2028.

This year will mark the 11th year of John West’s sponsorship of Féile.

It has grown remarkably in that time to become one of the biggest underage sporting events in Europe.

In 2025, over 400 club sides, comprising 9,000 players, competed in the finals alone, across numerous venues nationwide, following qualification at county level.

The John West Féile finals have drawn teams from all

over the world, including the Americas, Australasia, mainland Europe and Britain, where the competition is credited with helping to fuel interest in Gaelic games among children from nonIrish backgrounds.

The sponsorship has seen John West stress the importance of a healthy, balanced diet among not only players, but also the wider GAA community.

Top-tier sides compete in what are known as the national finals, which this year take place in Carlow and Laois on

Saturday, 20 June (Féile na nGael), and Derry on Saturday, 27 June (Féile Peile na nÓg).

Teams at other grades will take part in regional finals at venues throughout the country over the same two Saturdays.

Féile na nGael county competitions are scheduled for the month of April, with Féile Peile na nÓg county competitions taking place in May. Féile na nGael has been in existence since 1971, while Féile Peile na nÓg will mark 44 years this year.

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

Any given day, and it could be you …

Fifteen years ago, my heart was broken. And, as I peered at myself closely in the misted mirror, drawing the cold blade once more across the soaped-up skin, I felt like the condemned man having his last shave — to be clean before his Maker — and about to have his last meal, choking on his own self-pity in the hope of a last-minute reprieve.

“Please God, let it be all right,” I said to no one in particular as I rinsed the razor under the running water. I was heading for openheart surgery to mend a congenital defect which, in mid-life, had caught up with me, and also to mend the peg on the mitral valve. Fifteen years ago, I was 15 weeks in recovery with a serrated scar the length of my chest.

Just before Christmas gone, my cardiac consultant told me the peg on the mitral

valve needed mending because of wear and tear. The date is set for next month. This time around, though, I’ll be back on my feet in days, given the marvellous and non-invasive mechanics of micro-surgery.

I mention all this because I caught the first two episodes of RTÉ’s new documentary Any Given Day, set against the Accident & Emergency unit of University Hospital Cork (UHC). It’s an insightful fly-on-the-wall look at the day-to-day running of the unit, where death can often hang in the balance, dependent on the skill and knowledge of the emergency team. Judging by the opening episodes, it’s promising and I look forward to its full run, although I did wonder where the trolleys were that we hear so much about.

I am a bit of a nerd when it comes to streaming series

on cops and crime, and also the goings-on in a hospital. Down the years, I have watched everything from the grainy black-and-white days of Emergency Ward 10 to Casualty to Grey’s Anatomy, and latterly Code Black. What makes this drama stand out for me is that not all ends well all the time. A lot of things go wrong. A lot of patients die. Code Black feels authentic in mirroring the facts of life, in that life can be fleeting and tenuous and end in an abrupt moment… any given day. We all die, naturally, but in the intervening years between coming and going, most of us at some time will need the professionalism of medics in the confines of a hospital room. There is nothing like a few days’ stay in a hospital bed to jolt one back to a sense of reality about the body’s susceptibility to illness, and to a

sense of one’s own mortality. Suffice to say, the conditions of my ins and outs of hospitals in the last 15 years were wholly treatable in the hands of professional healers and

“Brought home to me the goodness and kindness of these unsung heroes...

their aides and the miracle of modern medicine.

At all times, in public and private admissions, I have been surrounded by very special people, from consultants to surgeons, to registrars, to anaesthetists, to specialist nurses and nurses’ aides, down to the trolley men and tea ladies — and more caring and patient people I have yet to come across. The kindness of strangers.

Of course, you don’t need me telling you this. Many of you, at some time, will experience a stay in hospital, or have been by the side of a relative or friend who is in such care. These special people look after those of us in need. But unless we have the misfortune to need them, we hardly ever give them a second thought.

One vignette of many I witnessed during my times in

hospital brought home to me the goodness and kindness of these unsung heroes. I shared a ward with five other men, among them a gentleman who spoke no English. He was bed-bound and his toileting had resorted to incontinence that surely must have been draining his dignity.

One night, in those darkest hours when one finds oneself awake and thinking of all things about the body’s vulnerability and such, this man was in great distress and a young nurse came to his assistance. And with the utmost gentleness and patience, she looked after him, tended to his most intimate needs, and brought her professionalism to the fore to ease his troubled mind.

The patient was a stranger in a strange land, and yet here was this nurse showing the utmost love and compassion. An angel among us…

Here’s a hair-raising story that will grow on you

A previously unseen network of cells plays a critical role in helping hair emerge from the roots, according to a new study that may lead to new hair-loss treatments.

Until now, it was thought that human hair emerged due to an upward push from the root.

However, the new study used advanced 3D imaging

to reveal that each hair was pulled upward by a co-ordinated network of moving cells.

“For decades, it was assumed that hair was pushed out by the dividing cells in the hair bulb,” said Ines Sequeira from Queen Mary University of London.

“We found instead that it’s actively being pulled upwards

by surrounding tissue acting almost like a tiny motor,” said Dr Sequeira, an author of the study published in the journal Nature Communications.

In the study, scientists blocked cell division inside the hair follicle and expected hair growth to slow or stop. Instead, they saw that growth continued at nearly the same rate. But when they disrupt-

ed the protein actin, which allows cells to contract and move, they found that hair growth fell by more than 80pc. Computer simulations confirmed that the pulling force of the actin protein, linked to co-ordinated movement in the follicle’s outer layers, was key to the observed speed of hair movement upwards.

“This approach reveals a spi-

ral-like downward movement of outer root sheath cells entering the lower bulb region,” the study noted. “We propose a mechanistic model, where a pulling force induced by the outer root sheath contributes to hair extrusion.”

Using advanced 3D timelapse microscopy in real time, researchers could peer into the intricate, dynamic biolog-

ical processes within the hair follicle.

The technique enabled them to observe cell divisions otherwise impossible to deduce from discrete observations.

Researchers hope this new understanding of the mechanical forces behind hair growth can help design hairloss treatments targeting the follicles.

Milk to see price cuts to boost demand Opera buffs in for a real treat...

Milk processors have announced price cuts of up to 3c/L for December milk, citing consumer demand remaining behind supply due to global economic uncertainty and cost-of-living pressures.

All major processors have reduced prices for December milk except Dairygold, which held its price.

Lakeland Dairies confirmed a 3c/L cut, paying 33.25c/L (3.6pc butterfat and 3.3pc protein) for December milk, which is inclusive of its 0.5c/L bonus.

Qualifying farmers will also receive an out-of-season payment on top of the base price and, to help farmers through the current market challenges, it will pay a loyalty payment of 0.3c/L on all 2025 milk supplies in the Republic of Ireland and a loyalty payment of 0.25p/L in Northern Ireland.

In Northern Ireland (NI), it will pay 26.3p/L for milk supplied in December, which also includes a Sustainability Incentive Payment, representing a cut of 2.5p/L on the November price. A spokesperson said unprecedented volumes of surplus milk “continue to weigh” on global markets follow ing the surge in supply in recent months, which has led to increased inven tories, impacting across all dairy commodities.

“This combina tion continues to put pressure on farm gate prices.”

Meanwhile, Kerry Dairy Ireland has also

announced a 3c/L cut, paying 34.5c/L (VAT inclusive), including quality and sustainability bonuses. At EU standard constituents of 3.4pc protein and 4.2pc butterfat, the milk price is 37.77c/L (VAT inclusive).

Based on Kerry Dairy Ireland’s average milk solids for December, the milk price return, inclusive of VAT, quality and sustainability bonuses, is 44.35c/L. It also said global milk production remains strong, particularly across Europe. “Continued growth in output, coupled with high inventory levels and muted demand from the foodservice sector, continues to exert downward pressure on the dairy market.”

Dairygold has maintained the December quoted milk price at 36c/L, based on standard constituents of 3.3pc protein and 3.6pc butterfat, inclusive of sustainability and quality payments and VAT.

A spokesperson for Dairygold said the December milk price equates to an average December farm gate milk price of 47.4c/L, based on the average December 2025 milk solids achieved by suppliers. At EU standard constituents of 3.4pc protein and 4.2pc butterfat, the quoted milk price for December is 39.4c/L, inclusive of VAT.

Dairygold chairperson Pat Clancy said dairy market sentiment “remains very subdued”, with strong global milk supply across all main exporting regions continuing to outpace demand.

Blackwater Valley Opera Festival (BVOF) will return to Waterford and East Cork from 26 May to 1 June for a week of exceptional opera and classical music in some of the region’s most striking historic settings.

Ireland’s summer opera festival will present over 24 events, with more than 100 performers across 13 historic homes and venues in Lismore, Youghal, Dungarvan, and Castlemartyr. With stunning new venues, international and national talent, and a carefully curated programme, the 2026 season promises memorable experiences for all.

Tickets for all performances

and bespoke dining experiences are now on sale at blackwatervalleyopera. ie, with many expected to sell out, so early booking is advised.

Opera remains central to the festival, with four performances of Mozart’s Don Giovanni, staged in the atmospheric grounds of Lismore Castle. The production, with a predominantly Irish cast and featuring the Irish Baroque Orchestra, is conducted by composer Peter Whelan and directed by Tom Creed. It hurtles between comedy, danger, and seduction as a notorious libertine pursues pleasure until vengeance and justice close

in. From a deadly duel to a ghostly reckoning, the drama ignites in the historic stable yards of Lismore Castle with sharp humour, beauty, and a touch of the supernatural.

Handel’s Acis and Galatea will be performed by candlelight in St Carthage’s Cathedral, Lismore – an evocative setting for this timeless work.

New for 2026, Ballynatray House joins the festival as a recital venue, expanding the programme of chamber music and song presented in historic houses across the Blackwater Valley. The inaugural recital features Irish mezzo-soprano Tara Erraught and is already sold out. Concerts at Dromore

Yard remain a festival fixture, with highlights including performances by Magdalene Ho and brother-and-sister piano virtuosos Finghin Collins and Dearbhla Collins. The concert programme concludes with the return of Cork-born mezzo-soprano Niamh O’Sullivan, whose international career has brought her to major concert halls worldwide, alongside pianist Gary Beecher.

above: Ami Hewitt and the Piccolo Lasso Choir perform at last year's finale of Blackwater Valley Opera Festival’s headline opera A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Benjamin Britten.

Kilkenny County Council just doesn’t have the X Factor

At least seven Irish local authorities are reviewing how they use X, while several others have reduced activity, shifted towards alternative platforms or gone dormant entirely.

Kilkenny County Council is one of the few local authorities that does not use X.

Analysis by the Irish Independent has found that although only a minority of local authorities across Ireland cite emerging AI-related concerns — including issues linked to X’s Grok chatbot — and most

say their use of the platform is now under routine or strategic reassessment.

Grok, the AI chatbot developed by X, has become a significant concern for local authorities and regulators due to its potential to manipulate and generate harmful content.

Grok and X platforms have been heavily criticised in recent weeks for allowing users to “nudify” images of people, including removing clothing or creating non-consensual sexualised images, particularly

of women and young children. A review of statements from councils around the country shows a mixed approach.

Cork City Council has been shifting away from X as a key channel for several months, saying it is “very conscious” of the broader debate around the role of X.

“But even before that debate started, the city council had begun to shift away from X as a key channel of communication,” a spokesperson said.

Several councils emphasised

they have no plans to curtail X use but are monitoring developments closely.

Waterford City and County Council said: “X currently plays a role in the timely dissemination of operational information, including road alerts and closures, weather-related updates, service disruptions and emergency notices, where speed and reach are critical. “Any future change in approach would be a matter for consideration by the elected council.”

Pictured

As I See It Marianne

Heron

Weighing into prejudice against those extra kilos

Having been fat at one point in life and also having been skinny at another, I honestly think in between the two is better. I ran to ‘puppy fat’ at puberty and became thin when suffering from gall stones in mid-life. Being called fatty as a pre-teen was horrible, and when the fat mysteriously melted away my classmates congratulated me on my new figure. How had I done it?

I hadn’t done a thing. I hadn’t eaten nor exercised; more or less, the extra blubber was due to a teenage metabolic slow-down. But the nasty experience of being called fatty and then being admired for weight loss coloured my view about being overweight. I confess that I became prejudiced about corpulent folk, to the extent that, if I saw a seriously chubby candidate’s picture on an election poster, I made a mental note not to vote for them.

That kind of judgemental thinking is neither fair nor accurate. People who are seriously overweight are suffering from obesity, which is a disease recognised as such by the HSE in its National Programme for Obesity, which shares the WHO’s definition as “abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that presents a risk to health”. The term obese applies to about 21% of the Irish population with a BMI of 30 and over, while 35% of us are classified as overweight.

People suffering from obesity may still struggle with the idea that the extra weight is their own fault and with stigma, which blames them for over-eating, lack of willpower and laziness. Candid interviews with celebrities who have had problems with their size, from Jelly Roll to Adele, are helping to change those views.

“I came to understand that over-eating doesn’t cause

over-eating. Obesity causes over-eating,” Oprah Winfrey, who has had a decades-long struggle with weight, told People magazine recently. “If you have obesity in your gene pool, it’s not your fault.”

Effective interventions with diet jabs like Ozempic and Wegovy, which work by signalling satiety, slowing digestion and acting on the appetite centre in the brain, or bariatric surgery on the stomach or the small intestine, are also changing the picture.

“Telling people to eat less and move more is a bit like telling people with depression to cheer up,” says Dr Michael Crotty, a GP specialising in obesity at My Best Weight (MBW), a Dalkey-based clinic dedicated to sustainable weight management. He explains that the causes of obesity are complex, involving genes, which account for between 40–70% of our make-up, as

McGuinness welcomes revenue change of heart on carers’ taxation following dáil intervention

BY JOHN MCGUINNESS - TD

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has warmly welcomed what he describes as a significant and humane change of heart by Revenue, following his intervention on behalf of family carers who were facing the prospect of being pursued for back taxes. The issue arose after Revenue wrote to approximately 34,000 family carers, warning that Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Benefit — which have always been taxable — had not been declared by some recipients and that they could face backdated tax liabilities.

Many of those contacted are also in PAYE employment.

Deputy McGuinness raised the matter directly with Micheál Martin in the Dáil Éireann last week, strongly arguing that it would be grossly unfair for Revenue to pursue carers for back taxes, particularly when carers are saving the State a substantial

amount of money by providing care in the home.

“Carers are already under immense pressure,” Deputy McGuinness said. “To frighten them with letters about back taxes — when Revenue already knew they were in receipt of Carer’s Allowance — was unacceptable. These are people who are saving the Government a fortune every single day.”

Following that Dáil exchange, and a series of media interviews by Deputy McGuinness highlighting the distress caused, Revenue has now indicated that it will not pursue carers for unpaid taxes relating to past years, a move that has been widely welcomed by carers’ organisations and families.

Many carers had said the Revenue correspondence left them “frightened” and under even more strain. While carers’ payments have always been taxable, they were previously self-declared.

From 1 January 2026, however, a new system will apply whereby the Department of Social Protection will notify Revenue of the taxable amount paid, and any tax due will be

collected in real time through the PAYE system, by adjusting tax credits and rate bands.

Importantly, Carer’s Allowance and Carer’s Benefit are not subject to USC or PRSI, and the Taoiseach confirmed to the Dáil that he believes around 90 per cent of carers will not be liable for any income tax in any event.

Revenue has stated that it engaged with Family Carers Ireland and Care Alliance Ireland in April of last year to outline the new process, but Deputy McGuinness said the way the change was communicated to carers was deeply flawed.

“Common sense has now prevailed,” he said. “Carers deserve respect, clarity and reassurance — not threatening letters. I welcome Revenue’s decision not to go after carers for back taxes, and I will continue to monitor this closely to ensure carers are treated fairly and compassionately going forward.”

Deputy McGuinness concluded by acknowledging the vital role carers play in Irish society and reaffirmed his commitment to standing up for them whenever issues arise.

well as hormonal and environmental factors, where everything from diet to stress or sleep may be involved.

People with a genetic predisposition to obesity may

“People who are seriously overweight are suffering from obesity, a disease...

put on weight because of the kind of environment we have today, offering processed and hyper-palatable foods.

Also, our bodies are programmed with a homeostatic effect to protect fat and to replace it when lost, which explains the yo-yo effect where dieters regain what they have lost.

“The goal with obesity care is to improve health, not just to manage weight, and it is the same as any other chronic disease — if you stop treating it, it will come back,” says Dr Crotty. So-called diet jabs may help to level the playing field for sufferers, but given the price at €200–300 for a month’s treatment, they are too dear for many, while the HSE’s reimbursement for these drugs is somewhat disconnected from its recognition of the disease and is limited to those with diabetes or pre-diabetic states combined with other conditions.

The MBW clinic has a holistic approach, aimed at supporting people in attaining their best metabolic, physical and psychological health. Consultations focus on why individuals struggle with their weight, combined with coaching, diet modification and, where appropriate, medical or surgical treatment. There are other solutions for those who want to shed a few pounds. My favourite beauty columnist, India Knight, developed the Idiot Proof Diet (From Pig To Twig) with her friend Nevis, cutting out carbs and sugars and focusing on a diet with protein, fruit and vegetables combined with more exercise. They both lost five stone due to such lifestyle change. Worth trying.

Anyway, when I take action over a post-Christmas waistline, I will tell myself that I am out to gain health rather than lose pounds.

Dry January: How to support your liver naturally after Christmas

After the indulgence of Christmas, many of you may be considering doing Dry January to reset your health. I am going to give it a shot this year, nothing to lose, everything to gain. After weeks of rich foods, sugary treats, and increased alcohol I feel that there has been extra strain on my poor liver, the body’s primary detoxification organ. Taking a break from alcohol is one of the most effective ways to support liver health, but diet and lifestyle changes can also make a significant difference.

Hydration is key when it comes to a postChristmas liver detox. Alcohol is dehydrating, so aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Starting the morning with warm water and lemon may help stimulate digestion and support natural liver detoxification pathways.

Reducing sugar and ultra-processed foods is particularly important after festive excess. Too much sugar increases fat accumulation in the liver and can worsen sluggish digestion. Swap sweet snacks for whole foods such as nuts, seeds and fresh fruit, and choose complex carbohydrates like oats and brown rice to help stabilise blood sugar levels. Adding broccoli, kale and cauliflower to your diet can help as these contain compounds that support liver enzymes involved in detoxification. Beets, garlic and onions are also excellent for liver cleansing, helping the body eliminate waste products more efficiently. Supplements to support your liver can include herbs like Milk Thistle, Dandelion, and Arti-

choke. An easy option is A.Vogel Milk Thistle Complex as it combines all three to support liver support and digestive function. Or, for a broader cleanse, take a look at FMD Flor Essence Blend. This herbal blend contains several herbs to support the organs of elimination helping them to be more effective at their job. I take this every year for an overall gentle cleanse after my indulgences! I take 50ml in warm water for ten nights, and I always feel great after taking it. Exercise is important as it improves circulation and supports detox pathways. Quality sleep is essential, as the liver carries out much of its repair and regeneration overnight.

Dry January benefits go beyond avoiding alcohol. By nourishing your body and supporting your liver now, you can enjoy improved digestion, better energy and a healthier start to the year.

Happy New Year to you and your Liver!

CLAIR WHITTY

OcuHealth wins VentureLaunch 2025 as SETU–UCD partnership advances new eye treatment

OcuHealth, an emerging eye therapeutics start-up led by South East Technological University (SETU) in collaboration with University College Dublin (UCD), has been announced as the overall winner of this year’s VentureLaunch Accelerator Programme. The award recognises the significant commercial potential of OcuHealth’s breakthrough approach to treating eye disease and marks an important milestone for the collaborative research partnership between SETU and UCD.

OcuHealth is developing a novel “once-a-day” eye drop that offers slow, sustained drug delivery to all parts of the eye. This represents a substantial improvement on current treatments, many of which must be administered multiple times daily due to rapid wash-off of conventional eye drop formulations. The company’s platform can deliver a wide range of therapeutic molecules and has the potential to transform treatment for multiple eye diseases. Its first target is dry eye disease, a highly prevalent condition with symptoms that affect work, sleep, mental health and daily quality of life.

Eye drops remain the preferred mode of ocular drug delivery. However, traditional drops typically achieve limited absorption (often as

little as 1-5%) because blinking and tearing rapidly remove them from the surface of the eye. This leads to more frequent dosing and higher concentrations of drug to achieve a therapeutic effect.

To address this challenge, OcuHealth has developed a number of patented nanotechnologies. OcuHealth’s approach allows greater delivery of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs, including monoclonal antibodies, over an extended period. The formulation

is based on lipids similar to the healthy fats that naturally protect the surface of cells and has the added advantage of supporting tearfilm health.

As proof of concept, OcuHealth’s researchers combined their lipid nanoparticles with an existing steroid drug to explore its potential for treating dry eye disease. Preclinical findings show that a single drop targets the eye effectively, is rapidly absorbed and releases the drug over 24 hours

to the front of the eye. The drug remains within the eye rather than entering the circulatory system, and biomarker analysis indicates a meaningful reduction in diseaserelated inflammation. These results compare favourably with existing competitor products.

The project has secured €700,000 in Enterprise Ireland Commercialisation Fund support and is jointly advanced by SETU’s Technology Transfer Office and UCD’s NovaUCD. The collaboration illustrates SETU’s growing impact in advanced therapeutics and health-related research, reinforcing the university’s role in supporting commercially focused innovation within the region and beyond.

Speaking about the recognition for OcuHealth, Dr Laurence Fitzhenry highlighted the value of the joint research effort, “Our work with UCD demonstrates the strength of collaboration in addressing significant health challenges. The technology emerging from this partnership has the potential to change how we treat common and often debilitating eye conditions. SETU is proud to contribute scientific leadership, combined with drug delivery and translational expertise to bring this innovation closer to patients.”

Dr James O Sullivan of SETU’s Technology Transfer Office

underlined the importance of commercialisation support in initiatives such as OcuHealth.

He explained, “Our team has worked closely with the OcuHealth researchers to shape the commercial pathway for this technology, from protecting the underlying intellectual property through to securing Enterprise Ireland funding and collaborating with NovaUCD. OcuHealth is a strong example of how SETU supports research teams to translate excellent science into investable start-up opportunities with the potential for real health impact.”

The multidisciplinary OcuHealth team includes Dr Alison Reynolds, Assistant Professor at the UCD School of Veterinary Medicine and fellow of the UCD Conway Institute, who completed and won the VentureLaunch Programme; Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, Head of Faculty of Science and Computing (Waterford) and Principal Investigator of the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group at SETU; Dr Muhammad Sarfraz, Department of Science, SETU; and commercial lead John Lynch. OcuHealth now plans to continue its development and commercialisation pathway, supported by both universities as it progresses toward clinical validation and market readiness.

The jobs market in Kilkenny is expected to see a 6% rise in new vacancies and job openings during 2026, according to a new report published by FRS Recruitment.

The 2025 Review & 2026 Trends Forecast report, produced by FRS Recruitment, the winners of the Employment and Recruitment Federation’s Large Agency of the Year award in 2025, reveals that recruiters are forecasting a rebound in the national jobs market this year thanks to a more settled economic outlook for businesses.

This comes on the back of a challenging 2025, which saw a 17% decline nationwide in advertised job vacancies as employers took a cautious approach to hiring in the face of rising costs and geopolitical uncertainty triggered by the trade tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump.

However, FRS Recruitment witnessed a strong revival in the jobs market in the final quarter of last year, and this rebound is expected to continue throughout 2026, including in Co Kilkenny.

Year In Review

Last year saw a decline in the Irish jobs market as companies across multiple sectors took a cautious approach to hiring. Instead, businesses focused on cost containment last year by delaying permanent hires or expanding existing roles internally.

One of the sectors which saw the steepest decline in hiring was accounting & finance, where the number of job postings plummeted by almost 40% last year. Similarly, job openings in the agri-food sector declined by up to 15%.

Unsurprisingly, both sectors were particularly exposed to the threat of US tariffs.

In a bid to manage rising employment costs, many businesses invested in automation processes, while the adoption of artificial intelligence continued apace in many sectors.

Both trends mean certain jobs increasingly face the threat of becoming obsolete, including roles such as general engineering operatives, multi-lingual customer service roles in business support, and roles in accounts payable and accounts receiv-

About-turn in job market locally

Rebound thanks to a more settled economic outlook

able.Additionally, the latest increase in the minimum wage and the introduction of the Auto-Enrolment Pension Scheme also forced many businesses to manage staff costs last year or defer hiring plans, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Many employers chose to offer temporary and contract roles as a quick and cost-effective way of solving staffing challenges last year without increasing their permanent workforce headcount.

This strategy saw a 40% increase in the number of temporary jobs available in the Irish market in 2025.

However, many of these temporary or contract roles

went unfilled due to companies offering poor remuneration levels for demanding job descriptions.

Return To Office

One noticeable trend from 2025 was the continued rise in tensions between employers and staff over return-to-office policies. Unsurprisingly, most employees continue to seek positions that offer greater work-life balance and remote working opportunities.

However, there was a significant uptick last year in companies offering new positions that were strictly officebased. This contrast between employee desires for flexible working and companies

seeking to enforce return-tooffice policies meant many positions went unfilled last year.

Employee Caution

With fewer job openings in the market during 2025, potential candidates became much more cautious. Jobseekers applied in higher numbers but were more reluctant to move roles, especially where offers did not sufficiently offset costof-living pressures.

Additionally, opportunities for entry-level positions for graduates dried up significantly as employers sought to hire candidates with more experience and fewer requirements for training or

upskilling. Of the roles that did become available, there was a higher influx of applicants coming from outside the EU, adding to the competition for roles.

Speaking on the report, Lynne McCormack, General Manager of FRS Recruitment, said:

“Last year was a challenging year for the Irish jobs market, with multiple headwinds creating a lot of uncertainty for companies to deal with.

Despite the difficulties faced by my employers in Kilkenny last year, our recruiters are anticipating that the market will rebound next year. With a tariff agreement now in place, there is much more trading

certainty for businesses, and I would expect to see a rebound in the jobs market for 2026.

“In the final quarter of 2025, FRS Recruitment saw a resurgence in the number of job postings across the market, and I believe that trend will continue into the first half of this year.

“Overall, Ireland’s economy continues to grow, and the labour market remains tight, meaning companies will need to compete for talent. It’s also likely we will continue to see trends around investment in AI technology and automation this year, as well as increased focus by employers on return-to-office policies,” she said.

AI not yet seeing savings for Irish companies

Global advisory firm WTW has said that, although it has seen “a surge of investment in AI and automation pilots in the last two years, as organisations test new ways to improve productivity and operational efficiency”, this has not yet translated into savings.

With AI not yet generating “actionable labour-cost savings”, employers have been advised to “make the best use of their budgets for employee satisfaction and productivity”.

WTW Associate Director Gabriella Bergstedt said:

“So, it’s key that organisations proactively plan how to make the best use of their budgets for employee satisfaction and productivity.”

She was commenting on a new survey on pay strategy that found that a fifth of Irish employers are planning a decrease in their salary budget in 2026.

The survey of Irish employers, as part of WTW’s global Salary Budget Planning Report, suggests that

salary budgets in Ireland are continuing to stabilise, with 60% of employers here making no change to their projected pay budgets this year and only 11% increasing them.

“Irish employers are entering 2026 with clearer pay priorities and stronger discipline, using salary budgets not simply as financial inputs but as strategic levers,” she said.

“Yet beneath the steady medians lie meaningful shifts in how organisa-

tions allocate pay, manage complexity, and plan for a workforce that continues to evolve faster than traditional budgeting cycles,” she added.

For those employers making changes to their initial budget projections, inflationary pressures (17%), anticipated stronger financial results (22%), concerns over a tight labour market (17%) and changes to compensation strategy (15%) are factors influencing pay budgets, she said.

Go far and wide, but have that travel insurance Your Money & You

In a time where the cost-ofliving squeeze shows no sign of easing, it is surprising that many people are still planning multiple overseas trips this year. Recent surveys reveal that more than half of us plan three or more holidays in 2026, with Spain topping the list as the favourite. Yet, amid the excitement of booking flights and hotels, averaging €2,500 a trip, a shocking number are gambling with their finances and health by skipping travel insurance.

Analysis of data from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and insurers like multitrip.com and AA Ireland paints a worrying picture. One in three holidaymakers jets off with no travel insurance, rising to nearly half among those under 35. Why the oversight, and what are the real risks? It might seem like a way to cut costs. Travel insurance is inexpensive with an annual family policy starting at €70, com-

John Ellis

pared to the thousands spent on the holiday itself.

The CCPC’s research shows that 16% of travellers faced problems last summer, from flight delays and cancellations to lost luggage and scam bookings. Younger people, who are most likely to en-

counter issues, are also the least insured.

This generational gap could stem from a mix of overconfidence and financial pressures. Under-35s might feel invincible or prioritise experiences over precautions. However, as CCPC’s Orla

Commission shows utter contempt for Irish TDS

BY NATASHA NEWSOME DRENNAN TD

Deputy Natasha Newsome Drennan has accused the European Commission of showing "nothing but contempt" for Irish elected representatives. The comment follows confirmation from the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food that its correspondence to the Commissioner did not receive an acknowledgment, let alone a reply, despite repeated attempts.

Deputy Newsome Drennan said:

"As an elected representative on the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food, and as someone from a family farm background,

I treat this role with the utmost importance.

‘’I have studied the EU-Mercosur Trade Deal in detail. Back in November, following a meeting with European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, Maroš Šef č ovi č , where, to be frank, little to no regard was expressed for the danger this deal poses to European farms and public health. I requested that the Committee raise my concerns with the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food.

‘As a result, on the 14th of November, the Chair of the Committee wrote to the Commissioner, outlining our concerns in detail and seeking his engagement.

‘’These concerns include flaws in the safeguards and standards of food production, food safety, and illegal hormone use; all of which have emerged

as major issues.

‘’I also question the use of €1.8 billion in EU funding allocated to Mercosur countries as part of the 'Fair Green & Digital Transition. Why EU taxpayers money is being given to the competitors of EU producers is beyond me.

‘’Now, after more than two months, there has been no reply—not even an acknowledgment of our request.

‘’The conduct of the EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Food shows nothing but contempt and a lack of respect for the democratically elected members of the Irish Parliament and our Committee.

‘’It clearly demonstrates that the Commission has no regard for the concerns and views of members of parliament across the EU.

Delargy warns, “expect the unexpected”, not just abroad, but before departure. Strikes, extreme weather, or personal emergencies can derail plans, and not buying insurance before a problem arises leaves you uncovered.

The financial fallout of going uninsured is stark. A mild heart attack in the US could rack up €250,000 in bills, while an air ambulance from the EU might cost €20,000. Even a cancelled family trip due to bereavement could mean losing €3,000, far more than a policy’s price.

Jason Whelan of multitrip. com highlights how people value their breaks but undervalue protection. Myths exacerbate the issue. Many assume the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or private health cover will suffice. Neither helps with cancellations, theft, or nonmedical disruptions. Overseas hospitals often demand insurance details upfront, adding stress when you are already

vulnerable.

What does good cover include? Standard policies from providers typically manage medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and personal liability. For frequent travellers, annual multi-trip options make sense, offering better value than single-trip deals.

But analysis reveals pitfalls in the fine print. Exclusions for pre-existing conditions, high-risk activities like skiing, or valuables not kept in a safe. Some will not pay out if a non-travelling relative’s longterm illness leads to cancellation. Timing is crucial as 50% of claims occur pre-departure due to illness or death. Buy cover the moment you book.

Choosing wisely involves assessing needs. Adventure seekers need extras for sports, while families might prioritise higher cancellation limits. Comparing via brokers and reading reviews helps avoid cheap but skimpy options. The key is transparency. Dis-

close conditions honestly, or risk your claim being rejected. In the grip of an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, it’s understandable that some might cut corners on extras like insurance to stretch their holiday budgets further but, as surveys from multitrip.com and the CCPC underscore, this false economy overlooks the immense value of affordable protection that could prevent far greater financial hits.

Travel insurance is not a luxury. It is a safeguard in an unpredictable world. With pandemics, volcanoes, and strikes still fresh in memory, skimping could turn a dream holiday into a nightmare. Irish holidaymakers, already spending big on getaways, should rethink priorities. Buy early. Scrutinise the details of the policy and travel with peace of mind. It is a small price for priceless protection.

john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

– are we all playing our part?

NEG8 Carbon scales Direct Air Capture (DAC) Technology with support of Kilkenny-based Prochem Engineering

A landmark agreement for an engineering study to define the detailed project specifications of Ireland’s first full-scale carbon capture system has been signed between direct air capture specialists, NEG8 Carbon, and Kilkenny-based engineering

consultancy firm, Prochem Engineering.

The full-scale system will be the first module of NEG8 Carbon’s Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology to be developed. The module to attract and capture 50 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂)

per annum will be built at the NEG8 Carbon Waterford headquarters.

NEG8 Carbon specialises in developing novel electrostatic DAC technology for capturing CO₂ from

the atmosphere to combat climate change and help industries achieve net-zero emissions targets.

The engineering study agreement with Prochem marks a significant step forward in NEG8’s journey to develop the company’s unique electrostatic technology that will make DAC more affordable, efficient and scalable as NEG8 journeys to large-scale commercial deployment across the globe.

NEG8 Carbon's Electrostatic DAC technology works by drawing in air and passing it over a specifically designed sorbent system that attracts and captures CO₂ molecules. The captured CO₂ can then be permanently and safely

stored underground or converted into climate-neutral carbon products, such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel.

Dr John Breen, Chief Technology Officer at NEG8 Carbon, said: “The 50 tonne/annum unit will serve to validate NEG8’s system as a leading engineered carbon capture technology that will support industries and governments in their drive to net-zero and beyond to negative carbon emissions.”

Michael Kent, Director at Kilkenny-headquartered Prochem Engineering, said: “Prochem Engineering is proud to contribute its specialist engineering expertise to NEG8 Carbon’s carbon capture initiative, a landmark project designed to address the urgent challenges of global warming and environmental sustainability.

“This collaboration reflects the shared commitment of NEG8 Carbon and Prochem Engineering to deliver innovative, sustainable engineering solutions that support meaningful environmental progress and a lower-carbon future.

“We are excited to be working alongside NEG8 Carbon on this groundbreaking project, which highlights the exceptional level of engineering capability, innovation, and technical excellence available in Ireland”.

NEG8 Carbon and Prochem

Direct Air Capture Tower

Part one

"Saved by the Hand of God"

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Along with the horrors of war, we hear the occasional feel-good stories…of narrow escapes and heart-stopping brushes with death

A County Kilkenny woman, the late Kathleen Aylward, told me of how divine intervention saved her from the wrath of the German Air Force during World War 2.

In July 2002, I called to her farmhouse at Ballydaw, just outside Kilmacow to learn of her stranger-than-fiction ordeal- what you might call the ultimate “Near Death Experience.”

On June 12th 1941, Kathleen left her home at Clonassey, Mullinavat, to return to the hospital in England where she worked as a nurse.

“It was St. Severall’s Hospital in Colchester, Essex”, she recalled, “and I was going back after a brief holiday.”

The prospect of returning to war-torn Britain, which was being subjected to daily and nightly bombing by the German air force, and across waters that concealed hundreds of deadly U-boats lying in wait for Allied shipping, did not bother Kathleen.

From an early age, she had a profound faith in a higher power that would protect her from danger. She believed that the Hand of God “was never far away”, and that faith could move mountains.

At Waterford station, Kathleen just happened to bump into Willie McLoughlin, a neighbour from Mullinavat. As both of them were travelling alone, they decided to travel together as far as Lon-

don, where Willie worked.

As they boarded, the S.S. St. Patrick, a mail boat, at Rosslare, Willie asked Kathleen if she were travelling 1st or 2nd class. She had booked 1st class, but when Willie mentioned that he had a 3rd class ticket, she changed her booking so that she could travel with him.

As the steamer made its way across the Irish Sea, Kathleen and Willie sat together on deck until about 2 AM. Then Kathleen grew tired and decided to retire to the bunks to grab some sleep.

But she had no sooner closed her eyes and settled down to rest when the ship was rocked was by a massive explosion. She described for me what happened next:

“My ears throbbed with the almost deafening sound of the bomb going off. I knew it must have been the Germans, but didn’t dwell too much on who was responsible. There was an explosion that seemed to shake the world to pieces, the lights went, the engines stopped, and I could hear the water lapping and people screaming. I raced for the stairs and managed to get up on deck. People were falling and screaming all around me.”

The sight that greeted Kathleen resembled a vision of hell: The St Patrick had taken a direct hit from the German dive-bomber and had split in two. The section containing 1st class travellers, was ablaze and sinking fast. All the crew and passengers in this part of the ship were lost. Though panic stricken like the others aboard what remained of the St. Patrick, Kathleen realised that her decision to change her book-

ing to 3rd class had saved her life-for the moment at least.

The remnant of the stricken vessel began to list, and Kathleen heard through the chaos and mayhem the frenzied voice of a sailor shouting at her to “keep climbing upwards”. “I tried that”, she said “but suddenly the boat lurched violently and I was swept out into the sea quite a distance from where the boat had gone down. I was terrified. I sank beneath the waves. I was drowning, and there seemed no hope. I was a non-swimmer and I thought the end had come. I started praying”.

In total despair, Kathleen asked God to save her. She was completely at the mercy of the freezing waters. But somebody up there was listening, it seemed. As she was about to “yield the ghost”, she heard a voice utter softly: “Put up your hands”. She did this, and found herself grasping a piece of wood. She pulled herself to the surface and managed to stay afloat with the aid of a three-foot long board from the wreckage. As she drifted in the water, she could see no one anywhere near her, so where, she wondered; had the voice come from?

She caught hold of a larger and wider piece of wood that looked safer. “It was an unreal situation, but I had to keep my wits about me”, she recalled, “I tried to hold on to my bag for as long as possible as it contained my late mother ’s rings and jewellery and my passport, but I eventually had to let it go. I was cold and frightened, and was afraid of being hit by the floating barrels from the ship which had popped up on the surface.”

After what seemed an eternity, Kathleen spotted two men clinging to rafts in the distance. They drifted closer to her and shouted words of encouragement. Then, a short time later, the three of them breathed a sigh of relief when they caught sight of a lifeboat from the St. Patrick rowing towards them.

But Kathleen’s troubles were not over yet. After picking up the men, the rescue team tried to lift her into the boat, but found this extremely difficult as she was covered in oil from the sunken ship. Her heart, like the ship, sank when she heard a crewmember say: “we’ll have to leave her.” But one of the survivors made a superhuman effort, and succeeded in hauling her into the boat.

Kathleen pictured after her rescue from the icy waters of the Irish sea

The SS St Patrick which was sunk by the German Air force in June 1941

Newspaper report on the bombing of the mailboat SS St Patrick

Health & Beauty

Choices that protect

HEALTH

This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (January 19–25), the HSE is reminding us all that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, thanks to vaccination, screening and early treatment.

Almost all cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). By preventing HPV, detecting it early and treating abnormal cells, cervical cancer can often be stopped before it develops.

In Ireland, free services are already making a real difference. The HPV vaccine, CervicalCheck screening, and follow-up tests and treatment have helped prevent thousands of cancers. The national goal is to make cervical cancer rare by 2040.

The HPV vaccine is the first line of defence. Given to girls and boys in first year of secondary school, it protects against the main types of HPV that cause cervical can -

cer, as well as other HPV-related cancers. Irish research shows vaccinated girls have a 60 per cent lower rate of serious pre-cancer changes by age 25.

From January 2026, the Laura Brennan HPV catch-up programme also offers vaccination to students in fifth and sixth year who missed it earlier.

CervicalCheck screening is free for women aged 25 to 65. Screening looks for HPV first and treats abnormal cells

Stay active to slow ageing

FITNESS

Staying physically active may be one of the most effective ways to slow age-related decline, according to a major Swedish study that tracked participants for almost 50 years.

The long-running research, led by the Karolinska Institutet and published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, followed 427 people in Sweden from their teens into their early 60s. Researchers assessed fitness, strength, muscle power and endurance at regular intervals to understand how the body changes with age.

The findings show that physical performance typically peaks before the age of 36, with a gradual decline becoming more noticeable after 40. However, the study also found that regular physical activity can significantly slow this decline, regardless of when

A hidden winter health risk

HEALTH

New Irish research highlights a significant lack of awareness among older adults and their carers about common winter viruses, despite the serious health risks they can pose.

The study, carried out by Ipsos B&A on behalf of Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, found that while illnesses such as cancer and heart disease dominate health concerns, acute winter respiratory infections are often underestimated. Just 3 per cent of carers said they were most concerned about winter viruses, compared with over half who prioritised long-term conditions.

Awareness of flu and Covid-19 was relatively high among people aged 65 and over, but knowledge of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) was strikingly low. Only 16 per cent of older adults said they knew a lot about RSV, despite it having a similar intensive care admission rate to flu. Awareness among carers was slightly higher, at 24 per cent.

early, often preventing cancer altogether. Research suggests more than 5,500 cervical cancers have already been prevented since the programme began.

Screening is for people without symptoms, so it’s important to know the warning signs. These include abnormal bleeding, unusual discharge or pelvic or lower back pain. Anyone with symptoms should contact their GP, even if their last screening was normal.

exercise is taken up. Importantly, adults who became more physically active later in life improved their performance by between 5 and 10 per cent. While this may sound modest, researchers say it can make a meaningful difference to everyday function, helping maintain balance, strength and mobility as we age.

The exercises used in the study mirrored everyday movements, such as jumping, lifting and climbing, all of which are important for independence and reducing the risk of falls. The results also match up with previous research on elite athletes, suggesting similar ageing patterns across the population.

Lead author Maria Wester-

ståhl said the message is clear: “It is never too late to start moving. Physical activity can slow the decline in performance, even if it cannot stop ageing entirely.”

Researchers will continue to follow participants as they move into later life, examining links between physical capacity, lifestyle and long-term health.

RSV poses a growing risk with age. Irish data shows hospitalisation rates rise sharply in people over 75, with outbreaks particularly common in nursing homes and long-term care facilities. During the 2024/25 season, RSV outbreaks increased by more than 160 per cent compared with the previous year.

While awareness remains low, concern is not. Most respondents viewed RSV as a potentially serious illness, and many supported wider vaccination access for older people. National immunisation recommendations now include adults over 75, as well as younger older adults with additional risk factors.

Nine steps to glow

SKINCARE

If you follow K-beauty trends, Japanese skincare will feel familiar, but it’s rooted in tradition rather than hype. The focus is on prevention, consistency and gentle care.

The nine essential steps are:

1. Oil cleanser

2. Water-based cleanser

3. Exfoliation (2-3 times per week)

4. Lotion 5. Essence

6. Serum 7. Light moisturiser

8. Heavy moisturiser 9. Sunscreen

Layers are applied lightly to build hydration without heaviness, supporting smooth, balanced and radiant skin.

Freepik

Freepik

Freepik

Freepik

Opinion

To see or not to see – that is, Hamnet Furthermore Gerry Moran

And so I went to see Hamnet (the movie on everyone’s lips) about the death of Shakespeare’s only son, Hamnet (the name was interchangeable with Hamlet in 1600s’ Stratford-on-Avon, Shakespeare’s birth place).

The movie is hugely popular especially here in Ireland as it has not one, not two, but a trilogy of Irish connections: it’s based on the book, Hamnet, by Maggie O’Farrell while the two leading roles are played by Kildare’s Paul Mescal (Shakespeare) while Kerry-born Jessie Buckley plays his wife, a role for which she received a Golden Globe award – and it’s worth going to see Hamnet for Jessie Buckley’s powerful performance alone. An Oscar may be in the offing.

Be that as it may, I personally found the movie a tad too long and, as gripping as it is (the death of a child and the pain of grief-stricken parents,

evoke powerful emotions). Is is somewhat tedious betimes. It is also worth noting that the movie is more fiction than fact.

Unfortunately very little is known about Shakespeare’s life, which is rather ironic really considering the volume of writings that he left behind. It is also an ongoing debate as to whether Shakespeare actu-

ally wrote the works! Here, however, is a definite fact about The Bard: when Shakespeare died in 1616 at the age of 52, he left behind a widow, Anne Hathaway and two daughters, Susanna and Judith. He also left behind him two beds which may shed some light on Shakespeare’s peculiar relationship with his wife. In fact not long after he

got married the bold William skipped off with a company of players as an actor and playwright and spent most of his life with several such companies in London and touring the provinces, paying the odd visit home.

Shakespeare returned to Stratford, and his wife, towards the end of his life. And it was in Stratford on March 25. 1616, just a few short weeks before his death, that he drafted his last will and testament, preserved in an oak box in Somerset House in London. One line of the will most certainly catches the eye and it goes as follows: “Item: I give unto my wife my second best bed.”

“Second best bed”! The line has confirmed in many a person’s mind Shakespeare’s relationship with his wife who obviously came second to his acting and playwriting in London. It’s also worth noting that this was a time when it

was customary for men to heap high praise on their wives and remember them in glowing terms of endearment in their wills. Shakespeare bequeathed the bulk of his estate to the male heirs of his elder daughter Susanna and intended his “best” bed for her husband, John Hall, a physician. Strange as it may sound it was quite common in those days for men to leave beds to each other!

A good bed with a soft, comfortable mattress, free of vermin and fleas was a prized possession. There is a second interpretation of Shakespeare’s bequest of the “second best bed” to his wife, which says that Anne Hathaway was in no way insulted by the will. She apparently was well looked after and received one third of the income generated by her husband’s estate. Besides, Shakespeare knew that his wife would live out her days with his daughter

Susanna and her husband and that they, as a married couple, would make better use of the “best bed”. Or at least better use than The Bard and his wife made of it.

I’m between two minds myself regarding Shakespeare’s two beds. However the following piece of information has left me with serious second thoughts as to what was going on. One of Shakespeare’s last wishes, apparently, was that the following verse be chiseled on his tombstone:

“Blest be the man that spares these stones And curst be the man that moves my bones.” Shakespeare intended the request to deter grave robbers but it also prevented his grave from being opened to accept the body of his wife, Anne Hathaway who died seven years after her husband and presumably in his “second best bed”.

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Re-empowering death conversations

Talking about sex does not make you pregnant! Talking about death does not kill you! Talking about such things is empowering and need not be taboo… so let’s start such conversations sooner than later. I’m a great believer in talking and learning as much as possible about the topics I am interested in and death is one of them.

People say that the Irish “Do death well” do they? Here there are traditions to do with death that are really excellent, including viewing a body, the traditional wake, community support and attendance at funerals. It’s excellent when compared to the UK where the funeral directors take the body away, it’s not customary to have open coffins and the local community support is unlike here. It’s more private and more family orientated. The Irish way is better in that regard but both countries are like ostriches when it comes

to talking about death. People often say they are prepared and by that they mean they have a will. Only 55% actually do and that is for after death. Fewer people have completed their Advance Healthcare Directives which are written instructions for medical wishes that you would like or refuse at the end of life if you no longer have the capacity to speak for yourself. Do you want to live at all costs regardless of your condition? Do you want resuscitation etc., or to be on life support? None of us wish to think of these things but not thinking or speaking to family/friends can leave big decisions for loved ones who may themselves be stressed when making choices on your behalf.

What is a Death Café? It’s an informal meeting where people come together in a café to chat over tea and cake and ask questions or

give information about death and dying. It gives people an opportunity to talk openly with others who have similar interests. Our society offers few such forums for sharing one’s experiences. Having said that, it is NOT a therapy session, it is not bereavement counselling.

There are Death Cafes taking place all over the world, over 10,000 have taken place in over 80 countries. They are not for profit, they make no recommendations, offer no solutions, are respectful of beliefs and people eat cake. It can be an unexpected joy and relief to speak to strangers about death and dying and we all need to have such conversations whatever age we are. There is no guarantee that we will get old. That is a privilege as many die young. Death can be an inspiration for the way we live and how we wish to be remembered.

Death is our one common denominator. We are all heading in the same direction regardless of status or health. Life is precious and life can change at any moment. If we fully embrace this reality, life becomes ever more valuable.

“Talking about death empowers living more fully together

Death is part of life so we may as well face it, embrace it, talk about it and celebrate our families and friends whilst we can.

We have no control over where and when but we can make it easier for those we leave behind. As Cicerly Saunders, the founder of the UK hospice movement said, “The way we die, lives on with those we leave behind.”

Dr. Elizabeth Kubler Ross, also a great pioneer and advocate for the dying, wrote many seminal books on the subject which I can highly recommend and she encouraged people to deal with all unfinished business to ease the burden for loved ones. Planning and discussing death can make many things easier in the long run for others and can actually ease their grief and possible complex emotions like anger and guilt if they are left with lots to deal with.

A Death Café is actually an event and not a particular space. They can pop up anywhere! I will be facilitating one in Callan on Saturday 7th Feb at 2pm in Fennelly’s on Bridge Street and there will be lots of cake and refreshments, good, like-minded company who all wish to empower themselves with information relevant to death and dying. I’m sure there will be deep sharing, discussion and much inspiration to be had. There can also be unexpected joy and humour and it’s always a privilege to attend a Death Café. The agenda tends to emerge and is not imposed, freedom of expression is encouraged and confidentially is a prior agreement. Let’s connect, support, encourage and inspire each other. See you there!

www.judithashton.com

www.beprepared.ie

The Great War Widows of Walkin Street and Goose Hill, County Kilkenny

The Great War Widows of Walkin Street and Goose Hill, County Kilkenny (working title) is a forthcoming publication that will document the human cost of the First World War on two Kilkenny streets. Research on the lives of the widows and families left behind is underway.

Over 150 soldiers who served in the Great War gave their home addresses as Walkin Street or Goose Hill, and there may be others. While military records tell part of the story, the experiences of the widows and dependants—often marked by hardship, resilience, and quiet dignity—remain largely undocumented.

The authors invite anyone with family connections to Walkin Street or Goose Hill during 1914–1918 to contribute information, such as names, photographs, letters, medals, service details, pension records, or family recollections. No matter how minor, this evidence will help to ensure that the stories of the women and families are preserved for future generations. Please email us at Irishstoriewofww1@ gmail.com with any questions or information.

Contact: Larry Scallan and MaryAnne Maher

Homes & Gardens

Happy houseplants

GARDEN NOTES

Houseplants bring life and colour into a home, but they do need a little regular care to stay healthy. Most prefer steady routines rather than constant attention. Water only when the top soil feels dry, make sure pots can drain properly and place plants where they get the right light. Keep them away from radiators and draughts, and give leaves a gentle wipe now and then to keep them looking their best.

Kilkenny home building update

BUILDING

New housing starts in Kilkenny fell sharply in 2025, with 269 homes commenced, down 76 per cent on the 1,131 starts recorded in 2024. The higher 2024 figure reflected Government initiatives, including the development levy waiver and the Úisce Éireann rebate, which fast-tracked projects toward commencement.

Despite the drop, local Fianna Fáil TD Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere highlighted the broader picture: 1,400 new homes were started across Kilkenny in 2024 and 2025, a 36 per cent increase on the previous two-year period. Over the last five years, 2,287 units have been started in the county.

Deputy Cleere said the latest figures show encouraging progress, with new policy measures, including the Housing Action Plan, expected to sustain and accelerate home building. He stressed that while more work is needed, the foundations laid by Housing for All and the Government’s funding commitments are creating momentum for faster housing delivery.

Roomy rural retreat

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HOUSE OF THE WEEK

Set on a generous half-acre site in the peaceful townland of Redacres North, just outside Mullinavat village, this substantial detached home offers space, privacy and countryside calm. Built in 2002 and carefully maintained, it is a solid family home with room to grow, inside and out.

One of the immediate attractions is the location. The property sits just 20 minutes from Waterford City and around 25 minutes from Kilkenny City, with easy access to the M9 motorway,

making it a practical option for commuters who want rural living without feeling remote. Mullinavat village, with its schools, shops, GAA club and community amenities, is only a short drive away.

The house itself is set well back from the road behind a gated entrance, giving a sense of privacy from the outset.

With a BER rating of B2, it offers a good level of energy efficiency for a home of its era, supported by oil-fired central heating.

Inside, the accommodation is generous and well laid out, designed very much with family life in mind. A spacious

entrance hall makes a strong first impression, featuring bespoke handmade stairs that set the tone for the rest of the house. There are three separate reception rooms, allowing plenty of flexibility for different stages of family life; whether that’s quiet evenings, entertaining or carving out a home office or playroom.

The kitchen and dining area is the heart of the home, centred around a breakfast island and divided by a stone fireplace with a solid fuel stove, creating a warm and welcoming space for everyday living. A large family room with wooden flooring

Creating a home office that works

INTERIORS

With hybrid working now part of everyday life in Ireland, many of us are still figuring out how to work properly from home, often from spaces never meant to be offices in the first place. The aim isn’t perfection, it’s practicality. Start with where you’ll work. A spare bedroom is great, but plenty of people are using a box room, a corner of the kitchen or space under the stairs. What matters most is having somewhere you can sit down, focus and shut out a bit of noise, even if it’s only during calls.

In Zoom or Teams meetings, lighting matters more than expensive equipment. Try to face a window if you can. If that’s not possible, a small desk lamp behind your screen will stop you from looking like a silhouette. Overhead lights on their own are rarely flattering. Sound is another common issue. Soft furnishings help more than you’d think, so a rug or curtains can reduce echo. A basic headset usually delivers clearer sound than a laptop microphone and helps avoid picking up background noise. Take a look at what’s behind you on screen. A plain wall, shelves or a plant is fine. It

and a fireplace adds further living space, while a utility room and guest WC keep practicalities neatly in check. A ground-floor bedroom is a useful addition, offering flexibility for guests or multigenerational living. Upstairs, there are three further bedrooms, including a main bedroom with ensuite and walk-in wardrobe. A large family bathroom completes the accommodation. The mature garden is mainly laid in lawn with a detached garage offering additional storage or workspace.

Agent: Purcel Properties

Freepik

Freepik

REDACRES NORTH, MULLINAVAT

Freepik

McGuinness welcomes ministerial visit to Kilkenny and record €33 million investment in Irish sport

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil TD for Carlow–Kilkenny, John McGuinness, has warmly welcomed confirmation that Charlie McConalogue, Minister of State at the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport, has accepted his invitation to travel to Kilkenny this week, alongside the announcement of a record level of core funding for sporting organisations nationwide.

Minister McConalogue will attend an Information Evening on the Community Sports Facilities Fund at the Ormonde Hotel this week, following a request from Deputy McGuinness to engage directly with local clubs, volunteers and community groups across Carlow–Kilkenny.

Deputy McGuinness said the visit is especially timely, coming as Minister McConalogue, together with Patrick O’Donovan, announced record core funding of over €33 million for sporting organisations in 2026, delivered through Sport Ireland.

“This is hugely positive news for sport at every level,” Deputy McGuinness said. “I am delighted that Minister McConalogue has agreed to come to Kilkenny to meet directly with those working on the ground in our

communities. His visit, coupled with this record investment, sends a very strong signal of the Government’s commitment to sport, participation and inclusion.”

The 2026 funding package represents the highest ever level of core investment in Irish sport, totalling €33.36 million, including:

• €19.5 million for 57 National Governing Bodies of Sport, an increase of €1.2 million on 2025;

• €12.66 million for 29 Local Sports Partnerships, a 5.9% increase year-on-year;

• €1.2 million for other recognised sporting bodies. Overall, this marks a 6.5% increase on 2025 levels and an 87.4% increase compared to 2018, when the National Sports Policy was published.

Deputy McGuinness also highlighted the importance of 2026 being the first year of Sport Ireland’s new multiannual funding model, which will allow sporting organisations to plan more effectively, strengthen their workforce, and use resources more strategically over the coming years.

“For clubs and organisations in Carlow and Kilkenny, stability and long-term planning are critical,” he said. “This new funding

model, alongside increased investment, will help volunteers and professionals alike to grow participation, improve facilities and ensure sport is accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities and those facing socio-economic barriers.”

2026 LSP Core Grant

Investment for Kilkenny and Carlow:

Kilkenny:

Core and Programme Funding: €502,309

Women in Sport: €3,000

Total: €505,309

Carlow:

Core and Programme Funding: €326,127

Women in Sport: €45,000

Total: €371,127

Deputy McGuinness concluded by encouraging all local sporting organisations, community groups and volunteers to attend this Thursday’s information evening in the Ormonde Hotel, Kilkenny commencing at 5.30pm.

“This is a valuable opportunity to hear directly from the Minister, to understand the Community Sports Facilities Fund, and to ensure that Carlow–Kilkenny continues to secure its fair share of investment in sport and physical activity,” he said.

ICMSA says proposed changes to farmers’ Eco-Scheme 2026 ‘Space for Nature’ are a “meaningless measure that will deliver zero”

Commenting on the proposed changes to the ECO scheme 2026 – ‘Space for Nature’ option, ICMSA Deputy President, Eamon Carroll, asked how these changes looked set against the much-trumpeted and hype ‘Simplification Agenda’?

“To be honest, the ‘Simplification Agenda’ was revealed as a joke a good while ago. But anyone who still hadn’t ‘got’ the joke will certainly understand it now after this latest minor farce. I’d ask whether similar rules will apply to Mercusor countries, but what’s the point when we all know the answer?”, said Mr Carroll.

The ICMSA Deputy President said that the nub of this latest pointless change was what he called the “inexplicable decision” that features that were eligible for 2023-2025 are now deemed to no longer contain nature and have to be excluded.

Pranic Healing

Pranic Healing is a nontouch, complimentary energy healing system. It is based on the principle that the physical body has an innate ability to heal itself, and this process can be accelerated by using prana (life force energy) to balance, harmonize, and transform the body’s energy process, accelerating its natural ability to heal itself. It was discovered by Grandmaster Choa Kok Sui in the late 20th century. Grandmaster Choa Kok Sui is the founder of Modern Pranic Healing & Arhatic Yoga. Prana is a Sanskrit word meaning “life force” or “vital energy”. Similar to “Chi” in Chinese medicine or “Ki” in Japanese, it is the invisible bio-energy that keeps the body alive and healthy. This energy flows through our energy field or aura that surrounds and interpenetrates the physical body, as well as through

Mr. Carroll called on the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine to intervene on this matter or – in the event of him agreeing with his officials – to explain to the rest of us when plants, birds, and hedgerows, stopped being ‘nature’ and ineligible for inclusion.

“It’s only a small pronouncement and will be considered as a minor matter. But everything that is wrong with the attitude of officialdom to farmers and the way they regard our time and effort and expense as unimportant and of no account is contained in this latest announcement”, concluded Mr Carroll.

“Whoever decided this should be asked to explain their position publicly and detail why, for instance, hedgerows are excluded? We can describe the decision as absolutely ridiculous and illogical – but that’s to understate the matter. It’s beyond that; it shows a level of indifference that borders on contempt. This just means more regulations on farmers and more hassle for farmers and their advisors for a meaningless measure that will deliver zero for nature”, he continued.

energy centres called chakras, receiving energy from the surroundings and expelling used energy back into the surroundings. With Pranic Healing Level 1, you achieve a practical understanding of your energy body and learn to use scanning and sweeping to cleanse congested energy,

then energize with fresh prana. This enables you to heal yourself and others for conditions such as headaches, aches, burns, stress, and many more.

Try Pranic Healing with an open mind and see for yourself its benefits. If you are interested in learning Pranic Healing, why not join us at the Pembroke Hotel in Kilkenny, Saturday and Sunday, 31st January & 1st February 2026, from 9:00am to 5:30pm, for Level 1 Pranic Healing.

What’s On

The Boomtown Rats bring 50 years of rock to Kilkenny

MUSIC

Dún Laoghaire’s own Boomtown Rats are set to storm The Hub in Kilkenny on January 31, bringing five decades of punk-fuelled rock’n’roll to fans old and new. Fronted by the ever-charismatic Bob Geldof, the band famously opens every gig with the claim that they are “the greatest rock’n’roll band in the world… from Dún Laoghaire!” - and with a career spanning 50 years, they have the hits to back it up.

This year follows a landmark 2025 for the Rats, marked by the release of The First 50 Years: Songs of Boomtown Glory on Universal Music Recordings.

The compilation celebrates their extraordinary journey, from brash Dublin beginnings to global recognition, all the while capturing the wit, energy and social commentary that have always set them apart. Before Bob Geldof became the world-famous Live Aid

hero and outspoken advocate for global causes, he was the frontman of a scrappy band with a big sound. Alongside Pete Briquette (bass), Simon Crowe (drums), Garry Roberts (guitar), Johnny Fingers (piano) and Gerry Cott (guitar), Geldof helped define the sound of late 1970s Irish rock, mixing punk attitude with melodic hooks. Hits like “Rat Trap” and “I Don’t Like Mondays” remain timeless, and the band’s live shows are still brimming with energy,

humour and a sense of rebellious fun.

The ‘Happy Birthday Boomtown’ tour promises a night of nostalgia, celebration and pure rock’n’roll joy. Whether you’re reliving the original punk era or discovering the Rats for the first time, Kilkenny’s The Hub is the place to be for a high-voltage trip through the band’s unforgettable catalogue. Don’t miss your chance to see one of Ireland’s most iconic bands mark 50 years of music, mischief, and mayhem.

Music in Kilkenny 2026 opens

MUSIC

Music in Kilkenny begins its 2026 season with a concert of chamber music at the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle, on Sunday, 25 January at 4 pm. The performance features Musici Ireland, a trio of Irishbased musicians: violinist Ioana Petcu-Colan, flautist Vourneen Ryan, and violist Beth McNinch. The programme offers a mix of Baroque, classical, and contemporary works. It opens with Georg Philipp Telemann’s Duo for flute and violin, followed by Bohuslav Martin ů ’s Three Madrigals for violin and viola. Contemporary pieces include Libby Croad’s Suffragette Sonata for solo viola, ‘Deeds Not Words’, and Mikołaj Górecki’s

Trio for alto flute, violin, and viola. Johan Halvorsen’s Passacaglia for violin and viola, after Handel, and Ludwig van Beethoven’s Serenade in D major, op. 25, complete the programme. The concert is a chance to hear three experienced musicians performing in an intimate setting, with a programme that balances well-known repertoire with more modern works. It offers an opportunity to enjoy the textures and interplay of chamber music in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Tickets are €15 and are available through Music in Kilkenny. The opening concert marks the start of the cit y’s 2026 season and offers a solid introduction to the variety of performances to come.

Your picks for this week

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

What to Watch: 28 Days Later: The Bone Temple - Expanding on the world Danny Boyle and Alex Garland created in 28 Days Later, but turning it on its head, Nia DaCosta directs 28 Days Later: The Bone Temple. Tense, atmospheric and full of surprises, the film follows explorers confronting deadly secrets within a remote, haunted temple. With heart-pounding suspense, striking visuals, and twists at every turn, this thrilling adventure is not for the faint-hearted

What to Read: Esther Is Now Following You by Tanya Sweeney - When fandom turns fatal, Esther crosses every line. She falls hard for Ted, a celebrity she is convinced is meant for her, and her obsession quickly spirals out of control. Leaving behind her old life, she travels to Canada to track him down, determined to have him at any cost. Tense, chilling and compulsively readable, this thriller explores the dark extremes of obsession and desire.

What to Stream: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, HBOThis heartfelt Game of Thrones prequel follows the humble hedge knight Ser Duncan and his young squire Egg on a gritty, adventure-filled journey across Westeros. Grounded in honour, loyalty and humour, the six-episode series combines character-driven storytelling with George R.R. Martin’s richly imagined fantasy world. Packed with daring quests, political intrigue and touching friendships, it’s a must-watch for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Food & Drink

Support Kilkenny’s food scene

AWARDS

Have you enjoyed a standout meal recently - the kind that lingers in your memory long after the last bite? Now’s your chance to give credit where it’s truly deserved. Nominations are officially open for the Irish Restaurant Awards 2026, and local food lovers across Kilkenny city and county are being encouraged to back their favourite eateries.

Now in its 17th year, the Irish Restaurant Awards, have become the country’s leading celebration of hospitality, shining a light on the chefs, front-of-house teams, cafés, pubs and restaurants that consistently go the extra mile. From neighbourhood favourites and family-run gems to destination dining and new openings, every nomination helps recognise the passion and hard work behind the scenes.

The awards process begins with a public vote, hosted online through The Irish Times. This initial stage is crucial - it’s where local voices shape the shortlist and make sure county favourites get the recognition they deserve. From there, nominations progress through expert judging, regional events and, ultimately, the All-Ireland final.

For Kilkenny, it’s an opportunity to highlight the strength, diversity and creativity of our local dining scene.

In 2025, Kilkenny featured strongly among the winners, with Thomastown’s Tabú Tapas taking the title of Best World Cuisine in Leinster, while Arán was recognised for Best Contemporary Irish Cuisine. Adding to the county’s success, John Kelly, head chef at the MICHELIN-starred Lady Helen Restaurant at Mount Juliet Estate, was named Best Chef in Leinster before going on to claim the overall title of Best Chef in Ireland.

So whether it’s a café that makes your mornings brighter, a pub serving unforgettable food or a restaurant that never disappoints, now is the time to show some love.

Nominations on The Irish Times website close at 12 noon on January 28th.

What’s in season: leeks

January is peak season for leeks, and they’re one of the most versatile ingredients in our winter kitchen. Their mild, sweet flavour shines in hearty soups, creamy gratins or simply sautéed with butter as a side. Leeks add depth without overwhelming, making them perfect for both simple home cooking and more refined dishes. Local Irish leeks are at their freshest now, crisp, fragrant and full of natural sweetness. Using them in January means meals are seasonal, sustainable and packed with flavour - whether tucked into a stew, folded into pasta or roasted until caramelised.

DRINK

As January wraps up, many folks in Kilkenny are realising that Dry January hasn’t just been about ditching the booze. It’s sparked a broader reflection on how we socialise and spend our downtime.

Recent research from Drinkaware reveals some interesting trends in Ireland’s drinking habits. More people are enjoying a drink at home alone - almost one in three

adults do this at least once a week. The home has become the go-to spot for many to unwind, especially as we age. But here’s the twist: there’s also a growing desire for change. It turns out that nearly 40 per cent of adults, and a whopping 65 per cent of those aged 18 to 24, believe that having more sober spaces would help them cut back on drinking. Yet, many feel that the availability of alcohol-free social spots in their neighborhoods is lacking.

As we head into the final days of Dry January, these insights present more of an opportunity for pubs than a setback. It’s not about overhauling their entire menu but simply being more inclusive. Having visible non-alcoholic options, like a good 0.0 beer or a thoughtfully crafted mocktail, can encourage people to visit rather than just stay at home.

There’s also a buzz around late-night cafés and restau-

FOOD

Statham’s Supper Club is a monthly gathering at the Pembroke Hotel that focuses on enjoying good food and good company.

Held at Statham’s Bar & Restaurant, these evenings aim to create a warm and inviting atmosphere where food isn’t just about what’s on your plate, but about the connections you make with others.

At each supper club, you have the chance to meet chefs, local farmers and other interesting folks who bring their stories to the table. It turns dinner into more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to dive into conversations that celebrate creativity and community.

This January, on Sunday the 25th from 6 PM to 8 PM, Lamber De Bie will be the special guest. Lamber came to Ireland back in 1994 for a year, but he ended up falling in love with the place and making it his home. He runs a florist business with his partner Pat, and they genuinely care about nature and the environment. Lamber’s passion for the

rants offering solid non-alcoholic selections. People are looking for places to gather, just not always where the focus is on alcohol.

Where food meets story Sober but social

For those sticking to Dry January, it’s comforting to know that you don’t have to drop out of social events to stay away from alcohol. As February looms, some of the habits developed this month might just stick around, gently changing the way we enjoy nights out in Kilkenny.

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client William Doheny. Permission to construct Slatted cubicle shed (ii) Soiled water tank and all associated site works. Demolition of loose shed is also required at Donaghmore Upper, Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY

COUNTY COUNCIL

Retention Permission is sought for minor revisions to the rear extension and alterations permitted under planning permission 24/60337. The revisions include the layout of the single storey rear extension with adjustments to the external doors and windows and for relocation of the first floor shower room located at 22 Talbotsinch, Freshford Road, Kilkenny which is a Protected Structure with reference C217 and is located in the Talbotsinch Architectural Conservation Area. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Applicant: Patricia Duffe

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, James Snr, James Jnr & Bridget Mullally, Cappagh, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for permission for the development of cattle shed over slatted tank, concrete apron and associated site works necessary at Cappagh, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed: Dempsey Agri

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Railyard Gaelic Football Club, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for (1) a change of use of part of our existing clubhouse building to community use to create an activity/recreational room, community shop, acc. wc, ancillary areas and (2) a new standalone single storey modular changing room building comprising of 2 no. changing rooms, toilet and showering facilities, an accessible changing room, referees room, physio room and all associated site works at Railyard Gaelic Football Club, Moneenroe, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny, R95 KD5C.

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

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

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA

MEMBERSHIP

GAA, Camogie and LGFA Membership 2026 is now open. Please log in to Foireann at www.foireann. ie or download the Foireann App to confirm your details and pay by credit/debit card. Please note all Players and Coaches must have membership paid before taking part in Club/County training sessions/games. It would be greatly appreciated if everyone could please enter your date of birth on your profile. This allows Club Registrar run reports accurately and add players to Teamsheets. If you require assistance, please contact Club Registrar, Catherine Nolan 087 630 93 82.

CLUB LOTTO

The Lotto results for 13th January were as follows, the numbers drawn - 2, 3, 20. There was no winner. The following received €30 Lucky Dip John Colgan, Paul Whearty, Eamonn Phelan, Declan Gleeson and Niamh Langton. Congrats to all!

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

SUCCESSFUL HANDBALL WEEKEND

While it’s a quiet time of the year, at the moment, on the hurling fields it’s all systems go for O’Loughlin’s handballers with the 40x20 county championships being held in nine venues around the county in doubles competitions over last weekend. They proved very successful for the O’Loughlin’s club as it took home a brilliant haul of eight gold medals and four silver. First up in the Under-13’s were Killian Skehan and Conor Geoghegan who took silver, being narrowly beaten in their final.

The Under- 14 doubles competition was won by Leon and Jonny Delaney while Finn Walsh and Sean Milea took home silver. Probably the biggest win of the weekend came in the girls’ Under-15 final where Stephanie and Clara Cooney took gold, bridging a long gap since the last time O’Loughlin’s Handball Club had success in a girls’ county final. Lory Hogan and Stephen Mc Cormack had a great win in the Under-16’s and, last but not least, the Club had further success in the Under17s’s when Conor McCormack and Callum Burke won, defeating Galmoy the final. Not forgetting Tom Hogan and Dylan McGee who were narrowly beaten in their county semi-final. Well done to all and best of luck to those progressing to Leinster competitions now

CLUB MEMBERSHIP

O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club members are reminded that 2026 membership fees are now due. Payment can be made via the www.foireann. ie website. Follow the guidelines to the O’Loughlin Gaels section where the different membership categories and prices are displayed.

WALSH CUP SHIELD

Well done to the Kilkenny Senior Hurling team on winning the Walsh Cup Shield on Sunday last in John Locke Park in Callan defeating Kildare in the final. Great to see O’Loughlin Gaels Jordan Molloy, Mikey Butler and Paddy Deegan all play their part in Kilkenny’s victory. Commiserations to O’Loughlin’s Brian Dowling Manager of the Kildare team.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated January 13th. The numbers drawn were 7, 9, 10 and 12. The bonus number was 16. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com Thank you for your continued support

Promotors Draw Winners were (€40 each), 1. Paddy Connolly c/o J.J.Cullen. 2. Damien Sweeney c/o M Hanlon. 3. Orla Cloney c/o M Nolan. 4. Ml Doran. 5. Neil Loy. 6. Lorraine Scanlon c/o B Maher. 7. Dinny and Mags c/o Dinny /JJ. 8. Andy Cantwell c/o Online. 9. Mark Bergin c/o Online. 10. Anthea Hogan c/o Online

NEW CLUB WEBSITE

Why not check out O’Loughlin Gaels GAA and Camogie Club’s website? Stay connected with all the latest news, upcoming fixtures, and match results. Explore exciting features such as: Play Lotto, Shop Online via the O’Neills Store and so much

more! Don’t miss our launch video—it’s packed with highlights and a look at what’s available on the website. Use the link below to see what’s waiting for you. https://oloughlingaels.com/olg/ BOOKINGS FOR OCCASIONS

O’Loughlin Gaels Club boasts the best club facilities for its members in the city. With plenty of free parking, kitchen, bar and lounge facilities available it can cater for all your party needs. Contact 086-8919312 to book your special occasion-christening, communion, confirmation, birthdays and anniversaries, special wedding guest gatherings or any group occasion you require. The large Hall is available for larger community events and the space outside is safe and secure for all the family.

NOTES

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

FRESHFORD

DEATHS

The death has taken place of Philip Maher late of Graigueswood, Frshford. The deceased was well known and respected in the locality. His remains were removed to St.Fiachras Church, Clontubrid. Funeral mass took place in St.Fiachras Church followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. Sympathy is extended to his sister Mossy his brothers John Joe, Milo and Ignatius, sisters in law, nephews, nieces and extended family

The death took place in Southampton of Mrs. Peg Gorman (nee Kavanagh) formerly of Freshford in her 91st year. She was a member of a well-known family in the village. Her funeral will take place in St. Edmunds Church Southampton on 6th February. Sympathy is extended to her family.

BABY BOY

Congratulations go out to Marie and Andrew O’Neill Rathbeagh on the birth of their baby boy Bobby recently.

SYMPATHY’

Sympathy is extended to Martin Power Garnamanagh, Freshford on the death recently of his mother Mrs. Breda Power late of Ballyclough, Carrick on Suir, Waterford. Funeral mass took place in St Mollerans Church followed by burial in Churchtown cemetery.

Sympathy is also extended to Theresa Dunphy (nee McGinn) on the death of her father Hugh McGinn late of Ballygawley Co.Tyrone. Funeral mass took place in St. Marys Church Aughnacloy followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

SPLIT THE POT

This month’s split the pot goes to Freshford Community Café and the lucky winner was Brenda Kavanagh who won €230. Tickets are just €2 each and are available at all the local pubs and businesses. Be in to win.

COMMUNITY ALERT

Freshford/Threecastles Community alert remind you that membership is now due and you can contact any Committee member if you want to join the group or pay your membership.

SOCCER

Freshford Town Junior side were defeated by a strong Castlewarren side on on a 4-2 scoreline with the Freshford Town goals coming from Jordan Burke and Shane Donnelly.

In the underage section the U13 boys had a 2-0 win over East End with both goals scored by Tom Dalton. The U13 girls had a 4-1 win against Clover Utd, with Siun McCarthy getting a hat trick and Katie Mai Walshe scored the other one for the Freshford side.

GAA

All is quiet on the playing field at the moment. Membership is now open for the 2026 season and you can contact any committee member re same or you can pay online – see the clubs social media pages for details.

FOROIGE

Freshford Foroige youth club is now back after its Christmas break. The club meet each Monday evening at the Community Hall. New members are

very welcome and they are also looking for leaders IONAD LACHTAIN

St Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

SAFETY FIRST

The recent development of the car park at Freshford Cemetery was a most welcome project for people wishing to visit the graves of their loved ones. Its now open every day and it will facilitate safe entry and exiting for all who wish to park there

OUTREACH CENTRE

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

BRIDGE

Freshford Bridge club is held each week in Threecastles Hall 7.30pm. New members are very welcome. Bridge Classes are also been held for anyone interested in learning how to play bridge and you are most welcome to attend these classes. For further information contact Anne Maria on 087 2271136 if you are interested in joining

PARISH NEWS

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

RADIO

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

The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for

O’Loughlin Gaels Handball County Championship Doubles winners. Boys Under 14 Leon and Jonny Delaney

O’Loughlin Gaels Handball County Championship Doubles winners. Boys Under 17 Conor Mc Cormack and Callum Burke

O’Loughlin Gaels Handball County Championship Doubles winners

the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours

MASS CARDS

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

VISITS

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

LOOP CAFE

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

MABS

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

FINANCE OFFICER

At Wednesday night’s first management meeting of 2026 a snippet of club history was made when Roisin Purcell took her seat as club treasurer, having been appointed at the Clubs AGM in December. Roisin became the first female member to be appointed as a senior officer in the 139 year history since the club’s formation in 1887. The Purcell family are already heavily involved in the James Stephens Hurling and Camogie club, sons Paddy and Darragh are promising under-age hurlers while daughters Molly and Hannah are committed camogie players. Comhghairdeas do Roisin as we wish her success as she settles into her new appointment.

BONUS BALL

Whoever suggested that 13 was an unlucky number. Certainly not for Paddy Butler (Jnr) and Malcolm Murphy whose chosen number emerged from the drum at the weekend’s national lotto draw. Both Paddy (Jnr) and Malcolm will each receive a cheque for €500 in the coming days. Enjoy the good luck lads and, once again, thanks to the many contributors who continue to support the long running club fundraiser.

COIS NORE RUN

A timely reminder to all that in two weeks’ time the annual Cois Nore Charity 5K Run/Walk takes place on St. Brigid’s Day Bank Holiday, Monday 5th February. This is the 5th year of the charity event, which will take place in the ideal setting of The Castle Park. The Fun Run event is open to all ages and includes a 1k walk/trot aimed at primary school children. Registration takes place from 9.30am with the 5k race scheduled to start at 11am. The fees are €25 per adult, €15 for U-16’s and €10 for the 1k participants. Registration can also be logged through the website www.coisnore. ie/5k. Support for this cancer support fundraiser would be much appreciated.

LOTTO (An Crannchur)

Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite 16, 20, 24, 28. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir (no winner). Na mionduaiseanna €40: Der Duff, Jim Dollard, Des McGrath, Gillian Treacy and Kitty Fitzmaurice. Go raibh maith agaibh as bhur tacaiocht. (Thanks to all for your continuing support)

BENNETTSBRIDGE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARY!

Happy Birthday to Mary Cullen, Annamult who celebrated a significant birthday recently with her family.

SPECIAL APPEAL

The Bennettsbridge Community Development Group will hold its Annual General meeting on Tuesday, 27th January at 8pm in the Community Hall. The group is appealing to parishioners to get involved as new energy and volunteers are necessary to enable the work to continue in our community. The meeting will discuss proposed new projects to benefit the community. The Community Hall is a great facility for the parish and used by a good number of clubs. Thanks to all who help to run it, especially Margaret who handles all the bookings. “Please come along and get involved”.

FREE FILMMAKING COURSE

Bennettsbridge “Reeling in the Years” filmmaking course for complete beginners is being offered free of charge in Bennettsbridge Community Hall. The course started on Thursday 22nd January. It runs from 12 to 2pm. All are welcome. If you know of anyone with an interest in the history of our village and parish, please pass on this information. Thank you.

MASS TIMES

Bennettsbridge Thursday and Friday 10.30am, Sunday 10 30am. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm

FIRST COMMUNION

First Holy Communion Preparation Mass was held on Sunday last. Parents and children took part in the liturgy. Fr Dalton welcomed all and the children received a special blessing.

CONFIRMATION

Confirmation Preparation Mass will be held on Sunday, 25th January at 10.30am. Further preparation masses for confirmation will take place on 22nd February and 11th March at 10.30am in Bennettsbridge.

SERVICE OF LIGHT

Service of Light will be held on Wednesday, 11th March at 7pm in Bennettsbridge.

CONFIRMATION

Confirmation will be held on Sunday, 22nd March at 11am in Bennettsbridge.

MOLLY’S THRIFT SHOP

Molly’s Thrift Shop in Gowran is looking for ladies’ clothes and any unwanted Christmas presents. Proceeds go towards services for the elderly.

HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY GOWRAN

Homes for the Elderly in Gowran have a house available in St Mary’s Court. Contact the Secretary at Parochial House. Applicants must be over 65 and capable of living alone.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Marion Baraut and family, The Ring, on the death of Marion’s mother, Ann Quinn (nee Johnson) The Rectory, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny. Ann was pre-deceased by her husband and her brother Sean. She will be sadly missed by her daughters, Cyrelene and Marion, sons-in-law John and Gerard, grandchildren Aisha, Mikaal, Hivert and Anna Jean, sisters Mary and Margie. Reposal was at Coady’s Funeral Home, Castlecomer with Vigil Prayers and Rosary. Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption and burial took place in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is also extended to Tom Hynes, The Ring on the death of his brother, Johnny Hynes, The Ball Alley, Marley, St. Mullins, Co Carlow and late of Coolhill, The Rower, Co. Kilkenny. Johnny passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, 13th January 2026. He is survived by his wife, Noreen, daughter, Elle and son, Dylan. He is also mourned by his siblings, Tom, Martin, Bridget, Kathleen, Joe, Anne, Carmel, Lizzy, Pauline, Trisha and Mary. Billy Cushen, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Reposed at his home with vigil prayers. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Moling’s Church, Glynn, followed by burial afterwards in St. Mullins Cemetery.

PANTOMIME

The Watergate Pantomime, Wicked -ish, was a very enjoyable and professional production. It played to a full house over the ten days. Local girl, Sofia Khodabacksh, The Ring was in the featured group of dancers and Johanna Cleere, Drakelands danced with the senior ensemble.

LOTTO

There was no winner of the Jackpot last week. The numbers drawn were, 2, 7, 17, 20. Consolation prizes went to, Marian Brady, Woodlawn, Liam

Mulhall, Gowran Road, Mollie Cahalane, Kilfane, Judy Farrell, Danesfort, Gail Johnston, Crafted. CAMOGIE

Bennettsbridge Camogie Club is holding a clothes collection on Tuesday the 10th of February. This is a fantastic way to support our club while decluttering your home and cleaning out your wardrobes after Christmas, details regarding pick up times and points to follow.

REGISTRATION 2026

Registration is now open for the 2026 season. All new members are welcome. Register through Foireann.ie

SCHOOLS FINAL

The Leinster Junior A Post Primary Final took place on Friday the 16th of January between Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny and Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny. Our club was proudly represented on both teams. Katie Mulcahy, Mia Rusnack, Leah Croke and Sadhbh Hennessy were part of the Loreto team while Lauren Skehan, Amy Hughes and Eve Byrne were part of the Presentation team. It was a hard-fought game in tough conditions, and nothing could separate the teams at the final whistle. The final score was 1-08 to 1-08. Replay date and venue yet to be confirmed.

NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE

We wish the best of luck to David Blanchfield and the Kilkenny panel as they begin their league campaign against Offaly this weekend.

IRISH LIFE HEALTHY CLUBS STEP CHALLENGE

There’s still time to join team Bennettsbridge for the new steps challenging that began on January 7th and ends on February 11th. If you have participated before simply rejoin on My Life App. Please see the club’s Facebook page for details of how to enter. A great way to get moving this year. Leaders after week one were Freda Daly, Paul Mahon and Tom Fitzgerald.

COLLEGES HURLING AND DEVELOPMENT SQUADS

We wish the very best of luck to all ‘Bridge players trying out for Kilkenny squads and with various second and third level colleges at the moment.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN

Places are still available in Bennettsbridge GAA club in the Pitch signage campaign. Many thanks to all the business owners who have supported the club so far. If you are interested please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

SPLIT THE POT

The next draw takes place Friday 23rd at 6 pm in the clubhouse. The draw can also be entered online on the club spot app under fundraising. Thanks again for the support.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

HIGHVIEW

Our U12 White team welcomed Callan to Harristown on Friday evening, hoping to keep their unbeaten run alive. The lads settled into their rhythm immediately, quickly going 1-0 up thanks to a goal from Harry Barron.

Ollie Dawson soon added a second, putting us in complete control. While Callan began to find their feet and pulled a goal back, some brilliant play from Dara saw him win a penalty. Harry Barron stepped up and coolly slotted it home for his second of the game.

Despite a few decisions going against us and a couple of disallowed goals, it was a solid display. The 3-1 win makes it six wins from six, leaving the team sitting top of the table. The “Performances of the Day” undoubtedly went to Harry Barron and Fionn Delaney, who worked tirelessly throughout. Excellent work again, lads.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR DUISKE COLLEGE

Ranked 3rd in Ireland among mixed secondary schools and 21st of every school nationwide for progression to third-level education in the Irish Times tables. A proud achievement for our students, staff, and community. This prestigious ranking places Duiske College among the very top schools in the country.

The Irish Times progression charts analyse how students advance from second-level education to universities and other third-level institutions, using official State and CAO data. The rankings are widely regarded as one of the most reliable indicators of post-school outcomes in Irish education. This latest recognition from the Irish Times

highlights the school’s ongoing commitment to excellence and confirms Duiske College’s position as a leading centre of learning not just locally, but nationally.

STRIVE FOR 25

Congratulations to our students who completed our Strive for 25 competition before Christmas. As part of this the students were challenged to have full attendance for the last 25 days of school before the Christmas holidays. Those students who managed to complete this were treated to a pizza party on Friday as an award for their great efforts.

GAELTACHT SCHOLARSHIPS

Comhghairdeas to Katie, Lola and Anna who have been awarded prestigious scholarships to the Gaeltacht as part of the Scéim Scoláireachta DEIS Gaeltachta 2025/2026. Huge thanks to Ms Furlong for facilitating this wonderful opportunity.

GAA

There was a full house in attendance for the 72nd Graignamanagh GAA club AGM on Friday 16th January. It was brilliant to see such a fine crowd at the first AGM in the Clubhouse since 2020, with one being online and the previous two being held in the Hub due to our meeting room being turned into a temporary gym while works were ongoing. Now thankfully our new top-class gym is up and running in the new extension and our meeting room has been upgraded and looking better than ever. Thomas Holden - Chairman, Ronan Tierney - Secretary and Adrian Bolger -Treasurer were all ratified to lead the Club into 2026.

Registration for Graignamanagh GAA Club membership is now open. We are also delighted to offer Gym membership options. For insurance purposes, all patrons must be members of the GAA Club and age 16+ to join/use the gym. To become a Club or Club and Gym member, download the Graignamanagh GAA App, and select the Memberships option from the Menu at the bottom right. Please take note of the Player and Non Player options

LOCAL LOTTO

There was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbers drawn were 1, 5 ,22, 24 The consolation prizes of €30ernt to Mick Furlong (online), Nuala Barron, Lillian Bolger, Ellen Bridgett, Paul Dempsey (online) LADIES FOOTBALL

Following on from the youth survey conducted by Graiguenamanagh Town Team, the results showed that a Ladies Gaelic Football team was the number one amenity missing from the town. As a result of this, we are asking all girls and women from the age of 10 and up to inform us of their interest in playing the sport. forms can be collected at the hub, the library and from the holistic healing centre.

There is also an option on this form for Gaelic for Mothers and Others which is noncompetitive and fully for the social aspect! We will be in contact with all those that are interested regarding whether we have sufficient numbers to go ahead with building teams at various ages early in the new year.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Please note the Silare board walk will be closed from Tuesday 20th January until 24th January due to essential tree surgery.

CAMOGIE CLUB

We are kicking off our 2026 Fundraising Campaign and are selling tickets again this year for the GAA National Club Draw. There are incredible prizes up for grabs.

We would be delighted if you would buy a ticket to support the club. You could be in with a chance of winning a brand-new Toyota Corolla Hybrid Car as 1st prize, exciting weekend packages to the thrilling All-Ireland Finals, a holiday voucher worth €2,500 and many other prizes. Tickets are €15 and can be purchased from any committee member.

DUISKE PLAYERS

By you supporting us, it allows us to support others. At a recent meeting of the Duiske Players our wonderful chairperson Edel Bolger presented a cheque to Cystic Fibrosis valued at €500 to support them in the valuable work that they do. Thanks to the Doherty family who accepted the cheque on behalf of Cystic Fibrosis. We send them our very best wishes with their continued work, and we were delighted to offer this small donation towards it after our 2025 year of drama. Details of our plans for Spring 2026 will be coming your way very soon.

Community & GAA Notes

KILMANAGH

ANN DUNNE

Sympathy goes to Mrs. Statia Teehan, Shipton, who has been bereaved by the death of her sister, Mrs. Ann Dunne (née Ryan) on January 8th. Her funeral Mass was celebrated in St. Colman’s Church, Conahy, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

JACK RONAN

Sympathy goes to the family, extended family, neighbours and friends of the late Jack Ronan, Knockeenbawn who was buried recently in Ballykeeffe Cemetery.

BRIDGET HOLMES

The death has taken place recently of Bridget Holmes, Courtstown. She was interred in Tullaroan Cemetery. Sympathy is extended to her family, extended family, neighbours and friends.

ATHLETICS CLUB

Thinking of getting back into running or trying something new? Join the local Athletics Club for their weekly club run every Tuesday at 7pm. Meeting point: Callan Medical Centre. All are welcome. If you are looking for something more sedate, there is a new Walk and Talk Group, who gather every Thursday at 7pm at the Callan Medical Centre. All are welcome.

CHARITY DARTS

Doubles Darts competition on this Saturday, January 24th at 9pm in Ryans Bar Kilmanagh. Big cash prizes for winners. Seeded draw, so everyone will get a good partner. Proceeds in aid of Teac Tom who provide mental health support and suicide intervention for those in need.

BINGO Weekly Bingo takes place in Ballingarry Community Centre every Tuesday at 8.15pm. Cash prizes, all are welcome.

OLD SCHOOL BOYS

There is a weekly gathering of men, of varying vintage, in Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh. Join them for a cuppa and a chat, each Friday morning from 10am to 12 noon.

ACTIVE LADIES GROUP

Active Ladies Group meet each Monday evening from 7pm to 9pm in Naomh Aodhan Community Centre, Kilmanagh. If you wish to join the group or need any further details please contact 086 373 99 83 or come along any Monday evening.

LOCAL BUS SERVICE

The Local Link Bus Service will bring you from your door to Kilkenny each Tuesday and Saturday. Initially you must register with Local Link (0818 424 141) and after that, you book a seat a day or two in advance of your journey.

COMMUNITY FITNESS

Kick start 2026 with Community Fitness in Ballingarry Community Centre, on Thursday evenings. Chair-based exercises at 6pm and Circuits at 7.15pm. All are welcome. For details contact Biddy O’Dwyer, NCEF Fitness Instructor & Nutritional Advisor. Tel: 087 641 0352.

COIS NORE 5K

The 2026 Cois Nore 5K run takes place on the 2nd Feburary at Castle Park in Kilkenny. It’s €25 for adults to take part and €15 for U16s. There will also be a 1K for primary school-aged children for €10 per child. We are welcoming people around the county to put forward mixed teams to take part and run against each other. Get fit and support Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre. You and your teammates can take part by selecting ‘Teams’ while completing your registration. 9:30am Registration; 10:30am -1K; 11:00am 5K. Register at Coisnore.ie/5k

GRAIGUE BALLYCALLAN CELEBRATION NIGHT

Graigue Ballycallan GAA Club are delighted to announce that we will be having a Night of Celebrations in the Set Theatre in Langtons on Saturday 14th February 2026.

October 2025 marked 25 years since we won the Senior County Final – the Millenium Year, where we then went on to contest the All Ireland Club Final. Two years before the Millennium, we were victorious in the 1998 Senior County Final. The 1998 and 2000 Teams will be honoured on the night, along with our U21 Roinn A Champions 2025. It will be a night not to be missed, as we will have a special ‘programme’ set out for the event with interviews, footage, food and craic. Doors open at 6:30pm with ‘throw in’ at 7pm sharp!! Tickets are €10. More information to follow in the

coming weeks.

SOCCER RESULTS

K and DL Division 2: Callan Utd 5 - River Rangers 3

SOCCER FIXTURES

Saturday, January 24th – U16 Schoolboys League

– Thomastown Utd v River Rangers

Sunday, January 25th – U18 Schoolboys League –River Rangers v Evergreen

McCalmont Cup (1st Round) – East End Utd B v River Rangers

KILMANAGH NOTES

Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com. If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

BARROW RANGERS

There was no winner of lotto draw of 13th January.

BOXING CLUB (PAULSTOWN)

Congratulations to Emma Keating who has been crowned 80kg Elite Champion of Ireland.

BRIDGE UNITED

If you would like to win the Women’s signed Irish goalkeeper’s jersey in the fundraiser for underage development contact Claire 085 7453605. Lorcan Carroll won €100 in last week’s lotto draw.

CHURCH SERVICES/EVENTS

Mass times: Goresbridge, Saturday 7.30pm, Sunday 10am; Paulstown: Sunday 11.30am. Weekday Masses: Paulstown, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday at 10am. Mass in Goresbridge on Wednesday at 10am.

Church of Ireland Service of morning prayer at 11.30am this Sunday in Grange Sylvae (Goresbridge)

TALK THE TALK

Cupla focal (Irish language conversation circle) meets every Friday in the Goodly Barrow Cafe MENS SHED

The annual general meeting took place last week. The next meeting is on Tuesday 27th January.

MRS BREEN

The death has occurred of Mary Breen, Goresbridge, peacefully in her home surrounded by her family in her 93rd year. Pre-deceased by her husband Laz and daughter Mary. Sadly, missed by her family, sons Peter, Joseph and John, daughters, Veronica and Gemma, her sister Chrissie, sons in law, daughters in law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family and friends.

SPLIT THE POT

Split the Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie The results of the lotto draw for 11th January were: 1 Jim O’Connell (€100) 2. Lexi Mae Walsh (€20) and 3. Jamie Weafer (€20).

STROKE SUPPORT

The Kilkenny Stroke Support Group resumes on Friday 30th January from 2.15-4pm, at Tuiscint Day Services in St Canice’s Hospital Complex, Old Dublin Road Kilkenny. Meetings are open to Stroke survivors and carers. They are informative and social. For further information text/call Lynda 087 7814697.

TAR ISTEACH

Tar Isteach is offering a special promotion with a half-price sale available on all items for a limited time.

WALKING BASKETBALL

Build skills and confidence, improve fitness, have fun, meet new people with the new ‘come try’ programme in association with Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership as well as Paulstown Basketball Club. This is a 4-week programme which began at 8.30pm on Tuesday 20th January in the Community Hall in Paulstown. No registration required. There is also, a programme available for boys and girls aged 7-11 which began at 5pm on Saturday 17th January. There is still time to join in.

KILMACOW

TABLE QUIZ

A table quiz in aid of the Marian Hall will be held in the Seantí, Smartscastle at 8.00pm on Monday, 26th January. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcome.

KILMACOW CHOIR

The Choir would welcome new members to come along for practice at St. Senan’s Church from 6.00pm to 7.15pm each Wednesday.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 5,8, 14 and 24. There were two Match 3 winners.

SENIOR SHED

Rosedale is delighted to launch a new community initiative designed to bring retirees together for a warm and friendly morning. The first Senior Shed will be held in the Rosedale Day Centre from 10.00am to 12 noon on Thursday, 29th January. It will give an opportunity for people to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee, have a chat in a welcoming space, to meet new people from across the community and to share ideas on how this gathering can continue and grow. Everyone, retired or semi-retired is welcome. Please contact Claire at 051 885125 for more information.

KILMACOW COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT GROUP

The Group will hold a meeting on the theme of Sustainability and Climate Resilience in the Barrow Room, Kilmacow Community Centre at 8.00pm on Monday, 26th January. It will give people an opportunity to come together and share ideas on how to enhance Kilmacow as a welcoming, attractive and greener place to live, work and enjoy everyday life. All welcome.

MULLINAVAT

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Society will host a lecture ‘A Kilkenny Man Looks Back’ by Liam Burke in the Parish Hall (opposite the Church) at 8.00pm on Thursday, 29th January. All welcome to attend. The Society would like to remind members that the membership fee for 2026 (€20) is now due and also to thank those who have already paid. Next year, 2027, marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Society and this year members will have an opportunity to explore ways of marking this milestone.

MULLINAVAT SEWERAGE SCHEME UPDATE

A planning report on the need for an upgrade of the wastewater treatment scheme in Mullinavat was completed by Kilkenny County Council in 2015. Planning permission for it was subsequently granted in 2017 and the project was to go tender in 2018. However, due to a change in the model to determine priorities at Irish Water (now Uisce Éireann) the scheme did not progress.

Under the Small Towns and Villages Programme each local authority can set out its priorities for investment. The Programme is limited to settlements already served by Uisce Éireann infrastructure. Uisce Éireann’s Capital Investment Programme (20-24) has 39 projects nationally at different stages of progress, including Bennettsbridge. In 2023 Kilkenny County Council drew up an updated list for its Small Towns and Villages Scheme based on compliance, capacity and future development, including social housing. Mullinavat was included at No. 5 on this list which was submitted to Uisce Éireann for inclusion in its Capital Investment Programme.

There are a number of steps in the process for Uisce Éireann to finalise its Capital Investment Programme (2025-2029). In February 2024 the Department of Housing and Local Government issued its Water Services Policy Statement. This enabled Uisce Éireann to submit its Strategic Funding Plan to the Department for approval and when this approval was received it submitted a draft Capital Investment Programme to the Commissioner for the Regulations of Utilities. The programme was opened to public consultation in November. The closing date is Tuesday, 27th January.

JOHNSTOWN

YOUTH CLUB

A new youth club is commencing in Johnstown in St. Kieran’s Hall on Friday 23rd January from 6 to 7pm. Children ages 3rd to 6th class. No charge, come and join in the activities.

ENROLMENT

St. Kieran’s N.S. is now open for enrolment for the school year 26/27. Contact 0568831611 or email johnstownns@gmail.com. Enrolments also open at Crosspatrick N.S. contact www.crosspatrickns.com.

SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP IRELAND

St. Kieran’s N.S. is taking part in School Partnership Ireland, a programme that supports positive rela-

Tom Healy

tionships and wellbeing within school communities through shared learning and collaboration. They are inviting community members who are willing to help or who would like to get involved in the project. Your support, experience and interest would be greatly appreciated. Two training sessions will take place at the school on Wednesday January 21st and 28th from 9.30 to 12.30. Contact 0568831611.

COIS NORE 5KM

The annual 5km is back again for the 5th year. Take part in this event at 11am in Kilkenny Castle Park on Monday February. 2nd (bank holiday). There is also a 1K for primary school ages starting at 10.30am. Registration via coisnore.ie/5k. The first 200 entrants will receive a cartoon saloon designed t shirt. This event is organised with the help of Carne, Kilkenny City Harriers and KCLR.

HAPPY VALLEY TRACTOR RUN

The organising committee wish to thank each and every one who helped to make this event such a success. Sincere thanks to Norton Engineering without which this event would not be possible. € 22,480 has been raised so far and all proceeds being donated to Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Kilkenny. The final figure will be published at a later date.

CONGRATULATIONS

A hearty congratulations and good wishes go to Mrs. Kitty Brennan , Balleen, Gathabawn who celebrated her 100th birthday recently. Wife of the late Geoff Brennan, she is a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, neighbour and friend to many people. Continued good health Kitty.

JUNIOR B SCHOOLS CAMOGIE CHAMPIONS

Well done to the girls from Colaiste Mhuire who won the Junior B Schools Camogie Final by defeating Presentation, Wexford.

SPA UNITED AFC

This week results Junior League division 1 Stoneyford 2 Spa 1 (Ciaran Beehan), U15 boys league division 2 Evergreen 0 Spa 3, U13 boys league division 1A Spa 0 Clover 1, Bridge Utd 4 Spa 2, U13 boys league division 2A Lions 3 Spa 2, U13 girls league division 1A Stoneyford 0 Spa 1. Also, this weekend the U11 boys hosted Lions, the U10 boys played Callan at home and the U8s travelled to the Watershed to play Stoneyford.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers were 16, 22, 24, 27. There was no jackpot winner there was two match three Mikaela Ryan and Michael Quinlan.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

The Mill Family Resource Centre – Urlingford is a vibrant and welcoming community hub dedicated to supporting individuals and families of all ages. The Centre offers a wide range of educational, social, health, and wellbeing services designed to meet the diverse needs of the local community. Whether you are seeking training opportunities, academic support, counselling, or social engagement, The Mill Family Resource Centre aims to provide accessible and inclusive services for everyone.

One of the key opportunities currently available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme. This is a free training course that will be starting soon and is open to anyone interested in developing new skills and improving their employability. The programme includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, offering participants a valuable opportunity to gain essential life and work-related skills. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or contact staff directly for further details and application information.

The Centre also provides weekly Maths Grinds, which are currently ongoing. These grinds are suitable for Junior Certificate students and 5th Year students, offering extra academic support in a structured and supportive environment. The sessions are designed to help students build confidence, improve understanding, and enhance exam preparation. Parents or students seeking more information are invited to contact the Centre directly. A wide range of community services are available through The Mill Family Resource Centre. These include Senior Alert Alarms, which help older members of the community to feel safe and supported in their homes. The Centre also facilitates clothes donations, helping families in need while promoting sustainability and community sharing. A Youth Club provides young people with a safe and positive space to socialise and engage in activities, while allotments are available for those interested in gardening and outdoor wellbeing. In addition,

the Cois Nore Advice Clinic offers guidance and support on a variety of personal and practical matters. The Centre places a strong emphasis on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Counselling services are available for both adults and teenagers, covering areas such as bereavement, addiction, and general counselling needs. These confidential services aim to provide professional support in a safe and understanding environment. In addition, Play Therapy is available for children aged 4 and over, helping young people to express themselves and work through challenges in a developmentally appropriate way.

Social connection is also a key focus of the Centre. The Active Retirement Group meets every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm, providing a welcoming space for older adults to socialise, stay active, and engage in community life. New members are always welcome to join and take part in the group’s activities. For more information on any of the services or programmes available at The Mill Family Resource Centre – Urlingford, please contact the Centre on 056 8838466 or drop in to speak with a member of staff.

URLINGFORD

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO

On January 12th the following numbers were drawn 13, 18, 21 and 26 bonus number 14. There was no outright winer of the jackpot. There were no match three winners. The five lucky dips of €20 each went to Tommy Kavanagh, Sean Kelly, Norma Bergin, Marian Campion, Mgt Peters. The Promoter’s prize was collected by M. Peters.

MONTHS MIND MASS

Madge Healy (née Keane), Kilkenny, formerly Town View House, Urlingford, Months Mind Mass will take place on Saturday, January 24 at 7pm in St Canice’s Church, Kilkenny.

YOUTH CLUB

The Youth Club is back every Wednesday 5 –6.30pm. Age 8 – 12 years, boys and girls, new members always welcome. Contact Sue in the Mill.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT

The January 18th winner of Split the Pot was Ellie Lonergan who received €1,228. Congrats on behalf of Clomantagh Heritage Group. Four sums of €250 were drawn also the winners were Kara O’Connor; Billy Doyle; Ruth Mockler Ryan; and Breda Pollard/ Mary Joyce. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Urlingford Rings Club.

HAPPY VALLEY TRACTOR AND TRUCK RUN

The organising committee of the New Year’s Eve Happy Valley Tractor and Truck Run wish to thank everyone involved who helped make this fundraising event such a great success. Sincere thanks to Norton Engineering for providing their yard as a base without which this event would not be possible, to everyone who donated money, items for the auction and raffle prizes. A big thank you also to all the sponsors, stewards, road marshals, ticket sellers, and everyone who took part on the day. €22,480 has been raised so far and all proceeds are being donated to Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, Kilkenny. The final figure will be published at a later date.

URLINGFORD NEWS

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

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

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

POBAL EILE CHOIR EVENING

Pobal Eile Choirs Evening will take place on Sunday, 8th February in Templetuohy Church.

GLENGOOLE N.S.

Glengoole N.S. will celebrate Grandparents Day this Friday 23rd January with Mass at 9.30 in Glengoole Church, followed by refreshments in the school. All are welcome.

ARTS AND CRAFTS

Arts and Crafts classes in Gortnahoe Hall starting Tuesday 3rd February from 9.45 to 11.45am for 5

weeks. €25 for the full block. Contact Millennium Family Resource Centre to book – 083 1008075

DANCE CLASSES

Dance Classes Step it out with Sally—Learn to Jive, Foxtrot, Waltz, Quickstep and Line Dance. Group lessons, no partner needed. Gortnahoe Hall on Thursdays at 8.30pm. €10, pay as you go. Contact Sally 087 7931308

IN OUR HANDS

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

PILATES WITH RUTH

Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water.

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. We had a full hall for our first bingo of 2026, and it was great to see some extra people coming from the parish. New support is always appreciated.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

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

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Rachel McCormack, Kilmoganny who won €246 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for Januaryis in aid of Ballysloe National School. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE AGM

The adjourned AGM will be held this Friday 23rd January at 7.30pm in the club rooms. All are welcome to attend.

CONAHY

GAA ANDCAMOGIE CLUB MEMBERSHIP

2026 Membership for Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club is now available to purchase via Clubzap or via the club’s website www.conahyshamrocks.com. The various membership rates are also outlined in both locations. Club members, particularly players, are encouraged to pay membership fees in a timely manner.

FAMILY FUN RUN

Conahy Shamocks GAA and Camogie Club will hold a Family Fun Run event on Sunday, February 15th at 12.00. All in the community are welcome to take part. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available after the run, and a raffle will also be held afterwards. A prize will also be given to the Best Dressed Juvenile entrant. Registration costs €10 per adult and €5 per juvenile (under-18) and can be paid via the Clubzap app or the club website www. conahyshamrocks.com (Click on “Fundraising”).

GAA CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 2, 26 and 32. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Edel Healy, Liz Deevy, John Gleeson, Anto/Joe/Patsy ℅ David Maher, and John Bergin (Clontubrid). The promoter prize winners were Larry Bergin, Brian Lacey and Peter Mulhall. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

CASTLECOMER LIBRARY EVENTS

Morning Mug Club - On every Friday from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., all are welcome at Castlecomer Library for the Morning Mug Club. Relax with a hot cup of Tea or Coffee, enjoy a biscuit or two, tackle a jigsaw or crossword, read the morning paper or simply pop in for a friendly chat. It is a cosy way to start your Friday.

St. Brigids Cross Workshop - On Friday, January 30th from 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m., learn to make your own St Brigids cross with Monica Fleming. Using locally sourced rushes various cross designs will be created, you can also learn about similar traditions, crafts and crosses from around Europe. Booking is essential. Please phone 056 4440561 or email castlecomer@kilkennylibrary.ie . Evening Adult Book Club - On Tuesday, January 27th from 6.30 p.m. - 7.30 p.m., join the library’s

evening book club. This month they are reading “Convenience Store Woman” by Sayaka Murata. If you would like to meet fellow readers, enjoy new book recommendations and explore new authors then do come along.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD

ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA

Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat. Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) - Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@gmail.com. Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory. ie. Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492

MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH

Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 25th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Vigil - Saturday 24th. at 6.30p.m. Saturday 24th. Feast of St. Francis de Sales PRAY FOR

Anniversary Masses: Ned Millea and Nellie Dunphy, Kyleva. Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 24th. January at 8.00p.m. ROTA (THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers; Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Margaret Ryan. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron: Sunday 10.00a.m Deirdre O’Shea Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Jakub Smolen: Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Murphy Sunday 10.00a.m. Ruth Crowley

NEWMARKET SCHOOL

The school is now taking enrolments for September. 2026. Please contact 056 776 8919

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS

Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche. LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 12th. January 2026 Numbers: 31; 28; 12; 24. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Orna Murphy, Rockhall; Seamus Murphy, Lismatigue; Helena O’Flatherty, Floodhall; Mary Doyle, Hugginstown; John Power, Lawcus. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Tommy Murphy. Padraig Crowley; James Irish.

POOR CLARES

The Poor Clares, Galway are holding a Half-Day Retreat for women 18-35 with Beth Davis. An opportunity to encounter God’s love and deepen your life of prayer and communion with God. The event will take place from 2.00p.m. to 6.00p.m. on Sunday the 1st. of February. For more information and to register: https://cherisheddaughters.eventbrite.ie

CHRISTMAS OFFERINGS

Many thanks for your very generous contributions to the Christmas Offerings over the past weeks. Much appreciated.

STONEYFORD ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Stoneyford Active Retirement Group is a group of people from Stoneyford and its environs. It is open to anyone who wishes to join. It is mainly made up of retirees but that is not a requirement. Membership is €20.00 for the year. We run a wide variety of activities in the Community Centre (yoga, bowls, cards, etc.). We regularly have classes (flower arranging, art, pottery, jewellery making, beading, to name but a few). We also have outings to theatres, houses, gardens and museums. Members are free to make suggestions for activities, classes or outings and if enough people are interested, we will do our best to accommodate them. We have meetings on the first Wednesday of the month, which includes refreshments. At some of our meetings, we will have a guest speaker. Our next meeting is in the Community Centre, Stoneyford on the 4th of February at 2.30p.m. and a welcome for all.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY LECTURE

A Lecture on ‘A Kilkenny Man Looks Back’ with speaker Liam Burke; will take place on Thursday 29th. January 2026 at 8.00p.m. in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite Church). Liam will look back at some social and sporting events.

SPORT Hurlng matters - Review

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Dioralyte Leinster Walsh Shield Final

Kilkenny 1-20

Kildare 2-13

John Locke Park, Callan Referee: Adam Kinahan (Offaly)

There was a sizeable crowd in Callan last Sunday as Kildare travelled to Noreside for the 2026 Dioralyte Leinster Walsh Shield Final.

The home side made one late change for the Shield final, with Erins Own’s Michael Brennan coming into the starting lineup for Glenmore’s Shane Murphy. Kilkenny struck first following some good team play which saw the ball worked to Cian Kenny, and The Village man split the posts. Brian Dowling’s side drew level immediately thanks to a fine effort from Naas’s Jack Sheridan. The Lilywhites also struck the games next two scores, Celbridge’s impressive attacker, Gerry Keegan rifled over just ahead of Sheridan’s second of the afternoon.

The lively start by the visitors was undone a little, when wing back Paul Dolan misjudged the rise of the sliotar, and this gave Mossy Keoghan the chance to pounce, and strike a fierce shot across keeper Paddy McKenna to the back of the net.

The Cats lead didn’t last long, as the impressive Gerry Keegan notched his second point while Moorefields Muiris Cutin got the better of his first battle with Mikey Carey to nudge the visitors back in front. A long delivery into Marty Murphy proved fruitful and the Tullogher Rosbercon man broke the ball to Liam Moore and the ‘Boro player popped over the score. Dangerman Keegan added to his tally while Castlecomer’s Michael Brennan took a nice point having taken a pass from Cian Kenny. The James Stephens man was heavily involved in all that was good about his side’s performance in the opening period, then set up a second score of the final for Dicksboro’s Liam Moore, as the lead changed hands again.

The travelling side didn’t appear to have any inferiority complex, and this was evidenced in the 16th minute when Dowling’s charges struck what would be the first of two majors for The Lilywhites. Powerful centre back, Cian Boran came out of defence unchallenged and sent a testing ball towards the corner. Killian Corcoran misjudged it slightly, but James Dolan kept his eye on it collected and raced towards goal before striking a strong shot beyond Glenmore’s Eoin Murphy. Derek Lyng’s men reacted well and struck the next two scores, courtesy of a Michael Brennan free and a lovely effort from Emerald’s Killian Doyle to leave the game deadlocked. The sides swapped placed ball efforts, Jack Sheridan and Michael Brennan converting the frees but it would be Brian Dowling’s men that finished the half strongest, tagging on two more scores via a Jack Sheridan (f) and a quality finish from Celbridge’s James Dolan to lead their hosts 1-9 to 1-7 at the sort whistle.

The Kilkenny management used the interval to ring the changes, and this saw a trio of fresh bodies taking to the pitch for the second half. Timmy

Cats see-off Dowling’s stubborn Lilywhites to claim Shield victory

Offaly in focus, as league begins on Noreside

Darragh Corcoran Receives the Walsh Shield From Dermot Howlin Treasurer Leinster Council

Ed Mc Dermott Attempts to gain Possession as he’s tackled and held by Cathal Mc Cabe

Eoin Cody Drives past Paul Dolan

Clifford, Marty Murphy and Michael Brennan were all withdrawn and replaced by Paddy Deegan, Eoin Cody and Niall Shortall as the hosts sought to inject some much-needed quality to proceedings in Callan. One of the changes in black and amber got the scoreboard moving when play resumed, Shamrocks Ballyhale

star Eoin Cody rifling over. The Noresiders were then dealt a big blow, when Cian Kenny was forced off with what looked like a hamstring injury and was replaced by Village teammate, Ed McDermott. Mikey Carey was then blown up for a foul on the dangerous Muiris Curtin, and Jack Sheridan duly converted the free. Another change for the Cats saw the experienced Mikey Butler replace Killian Corcoran at corner back as the management sought to tighten things up in defence.

Dicksboro’s Liam Moore was then fouled, and Eoin Cody popped over the resulting free, but once again, Gerry Keegan got on the ball and fired over another quality score. Mossy Keoghan then showed his skill and class before splitting the posts to leave the home sides deficit at just one point. Referee Adam Kinahan

Hurling matters - Review SPORT

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Kilkenny are the 2026 Dioralyte Leinster Walsh Shield champions. Derek Lyng’s panel had to dig deep to overcome the serious challenge that Brian Dowling’s Kildare side brought to Callan. It took the introduction of Deegan, Cody, Richie Reid and Mikey Butler to steady things and help the Cats drive on in the second half. The most disappointing aspect was seeing Cian Kenny limp off with a possible hamstring injury, hopefully The Village man is ok. The preseason is over; attention now turns to the National League and the games that await in this competition. First up for Kilkenny is the visit of Offaly to UPMC Nowlan Park this weekend. Johnny Kelly’s team will bring a stern challenge with them, and the Galway native will have his team well prepared for the opening league fixture. Following on from the Leinster club championship, which saw a feisty finish in the game between sides from both counties, this will be a physical encounter that you will earn the right to play your hurling.

Derek Lyng and his management team will have decided on the panel that they will take into the league, so several players are going to be disappointed at this stage of the week. With Fitzgibbon fixtures aplenty and some niggles, it will be interesting to see which XV gets the nod for the Offaly game. There are some great games to come for the Cats, but for now, getting off to a winning start at home to the Faithful County is the main aim.

arrived for the Cats, Richie Reid and John Donnelly replacing Peter McDonald and Stephen Donnelly as the home side flexed their muscles. Then came the games third major and the second for The Lilywhites. Jack Sheridan stood over a free from way out the John Lockes pitch and struck his effort towards the Kilkenny posts. Players rose inside the danger zone and Clane’s Caolan Smith got the decisive touch as the sliotar nestled in Eoin Murphy’s net. Kilkenny’s management will have been pleased with their sides reaction to conceding a second goal, tagging on the games next three scores with efforts from subs, Richie Reid, a long range one from

awarded another free, much to the frustration of The Lilywhites manager. Eoin Cody added to his growing tally with the placed ball conversion. Young Ballyhale forward, Niall Shortall then set up Ed McDermott, and the towering Village player sent over a sweet score as the Cats retook the lead. As the games entered its final minutes, Kilkenny’s fitness and experience began to tell. Paddy McKena’s poor restart was pounced on by Eoin Cody who punished the netminders error. A move crafted in Pairc na Seamrog saw Shortall pass to Eoin Cody and the former Cats Captain split the posts to push the hosts lead to three points. The scorer

Mossy Keoghan shows his defensive skills

PAT CORCORAN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND MONTHS MIND

The family of the late Pat Corcoran, 8 Archers Court, Kilkenny, wish to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for the kindness and support shown to us by our neighbours and friends on our recent loss.

Thank you to all who attended the wake, funeral, mass and burial, who sent cards and messages of condolences, it is deeply appreciated.

Thank you to the doctors and nurses at St. Luke’s hospital, also the staff of Newpark Medical Centre. Sincere thanks to the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team for the excellent care they showed to Pat

A special thanks to Fr. Felix and Fr. O’Shea for celebrating Pat’s funeral and whose kindness was very much appreciated.

A final thank you to Shasby Funeral Directors who went above and beyond with their professionalism and empathy.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, we hope you accept this acknowledgement as a gesture of our deep appreciation.

Pat’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Fiacre’s Church at 10.30am on Friday 23rd January

ANNE HAWE 12TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of our loving mother and grandmother Anne Hawe who died on 24th January 2014

R.I.P

It has been 12 years since you left us But not a day goes by That you are not in our hearts

Your life was a blessing Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure

Your vacant place No one can fill We miss you Mother And always will

From your loving daughters Margaret, Breda, Chrissy, Jean, Frances, Marie and Anne (RIP) your loving sons, Noel, John and Martin sons-in-law Jim, Jimmy and Keith your grandchildren and great grandchildren.

MOORE 26 TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Michael, late of St. Anthony’s College Road, Kilkenny who died on 27th January 2000.

R.I.P

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference

Sadly missed by your loving family

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.H.

BILLY (WILLIAM) CULLETON 29TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of my father William (Billy) Culleton, late of Stephen Street, who died on 28th January 1997

Gone from us but leaving memories Death can never take away Memories that will always linger While upon this earth we stay

Always remembered by your daughter Noreen, son-in-law Tommy, grandchildren Martina and Tommy.

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.M.

The Miracle Prayer

The Miracle Prayer

MICHAEL

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. S.C.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. E.W.

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. C.C.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.ON.

The

Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.T.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. H.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. A.S.