Kilkenny Observer 23rd June 2023

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Friday 23 June 2023

Congrats Cara!

Her deserving win of Vicky Phelan award 

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A No-Brainer EU lawmakers step in to regulate AI  Special Report, Page 14

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Home work not done

Thousands of working parents and carers in Kilkenny and throughout the country are still waiting for new flexible working rights to come into force after the Government received an EU final reprimand for missing the deadline.

Ireland is among 11 member States to face the threat of fines for failing to transpose a work-life

balance directive by a deadline almost a year ago.

The new laws would mean parents of children under 12 and carers would be entitled to request flexible working arrangements, including remote working or reduced working hours.

Workers providing support to a relative or person living in the same household will also have

the right to five days’ unpaid leave a year for medical care purposes.

The new rights should have been fully transposed into law by last August. When this did not happen, the European Commission initiated infringement procedures.

In April this year, it gave the Government two months to

comply. It accused the Government for failing to notify it of the measures it was taking to roll out the EU rules. This warning was also sent to Belgium, Czechia, Greece, Spain, France, Croatia, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Austria and Slovenia.

The commission said they had two months to take the necessary measures to respond or it could

refer them to the Court of Justice.

“Working parents and carers are hugely frustrated at the glacial pace of promised work-life balance reform,” said Laura Bambrick, head of social policy and employment affairs at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.

She said working parents and carers should have had access to flexible working arrangements

Boy (13) who dies in N10 collision is named

Nothing like this Dame ...

President Michael D Higgins has apologised for what he said was a “throwaway” remark about the chair of the Government’s upcoming security forum.

In a newspaper interview, the President referred to the chair of the Consultative Forum on International Security Policy, Professor Louise Richardson, as a person “with a very large DBE – Dame of the British Empire” and said he could have come up with a better list of contributors who are due to speak at the forum.

He said Ireland was currently in a dangerous period of “drift” in its foreign policy toward Nato. It drew criticism from Government TDs. But who is Louise Richardson, the renowned academic and expert on global terrorism, born and raised in the South East?

THE DAME v THE PRESIDENT Page 26

State pension may get €50 boost An incremental increase of €50 a week over the next three years could be on the cards for Ireland’s pensioners.

A coalition, including the Nationals Women’s Council, Active Retirement, Age Action and the Senior Citizens Parliament, is lobbying for a Budget increase of €50 per week over the next three years to bring it to €312 a week.

Michael Taft, a research of-

ficer with Siptu, which is also involved in the coalition, said the increase was needed as one in eight older people is living in poverty.

“What we would welcome is phasing it in over three years.

When you consider that one in eight older persons over the age of 65 are living in what is described as deprivation conditions, there is a need to significantly increase the

for caring purposes and five days leave for family medicinal purposes since August 2022 under EU law.

A Government spokesperson said it expected its Work Life Balance Act, which was signed into law by President Michael D Higgins in April, “will be commenced in good time without the need for further action.”

State pension,” Mr Taft said.

“The Government stands by its commitment of benchmarking the pension to 34% of average earnings, this was a commitment given in the pensions framework document that was published back in 2018, so really our demand is very simple that the Government keeps its promise.”

Age Action Ireland spokesperson Nat O’Connor said the

days of an inadequate, uncertain State pension needed to end.

“They don’t like their livelihood and income being a political football at every budget.

It is about security of income, knowing where you are at.

“Knowing that year-on-year, your pension will at least keep up with this benchmark. It’s a low benchmark, it’s a modest income. People will still

be encouraged to save for the older age.”

Meanwhile, the Central Bank has warned that a Budget ‘giveaway’ risks causing damage to the economy.

The warning comes three months out from Budget Day and could scotch Fine Gael plans for lower taxes on middle-income earners – a call that has divided the Coalition.

The 13-year-old boy who died after a collision between a car and a jeep in Co Kilkenny has been named as Billy Rockett from Kilmacow.

The crash occurred soon after 2pm on Wednesday, June 21 on the N10 (Waterford Road) at Dunderyark, Danesfort, Co Kilkenny.

The young teen, a passenger in the car, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the car, in which the boy was a passenger, was his father Liam who was taken to St Luke’s General Hospital with serious injuries, according to Gardai.

The two occupants of the jeep – a man and a woman – were also taken to St Luke’s for treatment of their injuries.

Forensic collision investigators have conducted an examination of the scene.

Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to this collision to come forward.

Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling on the N10 in the Danesfort area between 1.30pm and 2.15pm are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Thomastown Garda Station on 056 775 4150, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.

Tributes have been paid online to Billy and support expressed for his family.

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Deserving win of Vicky Phelan award Dr Cara Daly has been announced as the recipient of the inaugural SETU Vicky Phelan Equality Diversity & Inclusion Award 2023 at a special ceremony at SETU. The EDI Office received a tremendous response to a call for nominations with many wonderful nominees.

Dr Daly, a lecturer in the Department of Science at SETU’s Cork Road Campus in Waterford, has been recognised as this year’s deserving recipient.

She has made significant contributions to the university community in the past 10 years, and is responsible for the development and co-ordination of the BSc. in Horticulture Degree Programme.

Additionally, Dr Daly played a crucial role as one of the founding members of the SETU LGBT+ staff network. The network provides a safe and supportive space for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other individuals within the university.

Her commitment to inclusivity is further evident through her work and leadership in the development of SETU’s recently approved Gender Identity and Expression Policy. Cara Daly also

A first: from left, John Kelly, father of the late Vicky Phelan, Professor Veronica Campbell, President SETU, Gaby Kelly, mother of the late Vicky Phelan, and Dr Cara Daly, SETU Vicky Phelan EDI award recipient 2023

serves as a member of the EDI committee, which provides guidance to the

governing body on policy matters associated with equality, diversity, and in-

clusion.

The award was presented to Dr Daly by SETU Presi-

dent, Professor Veronica Campbell, at a special ceremony, in the atrium of the

T&L Building in the presence of Vicky’s parents.

Prof Campbell said: “The award is an annual award made to the SETU staff member or student, who is judged to have made the greatest contribution to equality, diversity and inclusion in the university community through their leadership, work, involvement or engagement with EDI related projects, initiatives or organisation.

“We received an incredible response across our university community to our call for nominations for this award, highlighting the amazing staff and student community we have at our university.”

In accepting this award, Dr Daly said: “ It is essential for us to acknowledge the indomitable spirit of Vicky Phelan, whose bravery and unwavering commitment to justice have inspired countless people in Ireland and beyond. Vicky’s legacy serves as a reminder that one person’s courage can lead to profound systemic change.

“I would never want to be part of an organisation that doesn’t do something to help.”

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Shocking news for consumers Up to 130,000 households are set to be hit with electricity and gas bill shocks as the discount deals come to an end.

Consumers face big increases in their bills because the high discounts on unit prices they were on have now been withdrawn.

The warning comes as leading energy expert Paul Deane of University College

Cork said consumers could see small price cuts of between 10% and 20% in the autumn.

Mr Dean told the Irish independent’s Personal Finance Editor Charlie Weston that it takes between seven and 11 months for lower wholesale energy costs to wash through the system.

“Wholesale energy costs have come down significantly. This

will lead to cuts of between 10pc and 20pc for consumers later this year,” he said.

Household energy costs have more than doubled in the past two years, with the average home now paying around €2,000 a year for electricity alone.

Daragh Cassidy, of price comparison site Bonkers. ie, said: “Electricity custom-

ers are looking at paying an extra €400 to €500 a year if they move from a discount of 30% to 40% to one of only 5% or 10%. However, people who use electricity as their main heating source will pay even more.”

Energy suppliers stopped offering big discounts to attract switchers when wholesale gas and electricity prices started to

rise sharply last autumn.

Mr Cassidy said dual-fuel customers, who get gas and electricity from the same supplier, are set to end up paying between €800 and €1,000 more each year, unless prices drop or competition for new customers increases.

“These figures are based on people who switch again and avail of a discount of up

New laws to quash old convictions for gay men

Eight Kilkenny schools win top science award Eight primary schools in Kilkenny will be awarded the 2023 Curious Minds Award, celebrating primary schools across Ireland that have adopted innovative approaches to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths) learning and engagement.

The winners are: • St. Brendan’s National School, Newmarket - Gold Award • Scoil Lachtain - Gold Award • St Aidan’s National School - Gold Award • Scoil San Lionard - Gold Award • Ringville National School Gold Award • St. Patrick’s National School - Platinum Award • Scoil Naisiunta Lisnafunchin - Silver Award • St. Michaels N.S Danesfort - Silver Award Announcing the 2023 Curious Mind Awards, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris, TD, said: “I am delighted to announce the eight winners of this year’s SFI Curious Minds Awards from Kilkenny. I want to congratulate all involved for their hard work and enthusiasm. Through programmes such as the Curious Minds Awards, we see first-hand teachers and schools empowering curi-

osity through a hands-on, inquiry-based approach to STEM learning.

“The high level of engagement this year can be credited to the schools and teachers who have put effort into giving their students access to STEM in a fun, interactive and educational way,” he said.

The Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) programme, run in conjunction with the European Space Education Resource Office (ESERO), aims to increase interest in STEM among primary school students, parents, and teachers nationwide in a fun and interactive way.

The awards were granted for a wide range of innovative and engaging STEM activities from investigating renewable energy, growing vegetables, mini-beast hunts, learning about materials and maths through baking, design and make challenges, marble runs, enhancing their technology skills through coding, and using STEM to solve everyday problems.

Primary Schools received awards in three categories: The Silver Award, recognising schools entering for the first time; the Gold Award, for schools further along their STEM journey; and the Platinum Award, for schools who have achieved previous awards and want to integrate STEM into the community further.

to 10pc. If customers don’t switch, and roll over on to standard rates with their current supplier, they’ll be paying even more,” he said.

Mr Cassidy said more than 105,000 electricity customers and almost 29,000 gas customers switched energy supplier between last June and last September, according to the regulator, the CRU.

A hair-raising gala event for our three Megan O’ Daly, Edel Walsh and Denise Walsh from Rustiq Hair in Kilkenny at the gala event L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2023.

The highlight of the Irish Hairdressing calendar made its welcome return at the RDS in Ballsbridge, Dublin. The much anticipated Grand Final boasted a full house, with the

cream of the crop of Ireland’s Hairdressing Industry in attendance.

The world’s longest running live hairdressing competition was first launched in Ireland in 1966 and continues to grow and spotlight the talent of the industry across the whole of Ireland.

The crème de la crème of the Irish hairdressing industry were out in force to compete against and support their colleagues for the fiercely contested awards.

The coveted L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award 2023 went to Zeba Hairdressing.

PHOTO: Brian McEvoy

Historical convictions for hundreds of people for homosexuality activity are to be quashed under new reforms after the Cabinet signed off on disregarding convictions prior to 1993, when homosexuality was illegal.

Criminal records, offences and the eligibility standards should all be removed, according to a report from a working group set up to examine the disregard of the convictions.

Equality Minister Roderic O’Gorman also confirmed that conversion therapy would be criminalised.

A total of €30,000 will also be donated on a one-off basis to HIV Ireland, and a new app will be developed to track the usage of HIV prevention drug PrEP, as part of a package of measures announced by the Government to mark Pride month.

Healthy Ireland will also allocate €30,000 in capital funding to HIV Ireland to landscape and refurbish facilities.

A total of €233,000 in state funding will be used to develop the app and online platform, which will help people track their PrEP treatment.

People who use the drug will be able to see results and other important data online, without having to travel to clinics thus freeing up services for new clients.

This is based on a successful model used in Brighton.

The National Sexual Health Strategy will be updated for the first time since 2015.

The report from the working group contains 95 recommendations and will be published

by Justice Minister Helen McEntee in the coming days.

Tech giant Apple’s move is leaving a bitter taste The Apple Corporation is seeking the exclusive image rights of apples in Switzerland, according to a Swiss fruit growers association.

Fruit Union Suisse, an 111-year-old organisation that promotes the interests of fruit farmers in the country, may be forced to change its logo if the US

tech giant succeeds in its legal bid.

The association’s logo features a red apple with a white cross on it, having been slightly revised in 2011 in order to celebrate the organisation’s centenary.

“We have a hard time understanding this, because it’s not like they’re trying to

protect their bitten apple,” Fruit Union Suisse director Jimmy Mariethoz told American technology magazine Wired.

“Their objective here is really to own the rights to an actual apple, which, for us, is something that is really almost universal...

“That is somethingshould

be free for everyone to use.”

It is one of several attempts by Apple to gain intellectual property rights over the eponymous fruit, according to the World Intellectual Property Organisation.

Countries that have given in to the tech giant’s demands include Armenia,

Israel, Japan and Turkey.

Separate records from the Tech Transparency Project show that Apple filed more trademark applications than Amazon, Facebook, Google and Microsoft combined between 2019 and 2021.

Apple first applied to the Swiss Institute of Intellec-

tual Property for the trademark of a depiction of a Granny Smith apple in 2017, covering electronic, digital and audiovisual consumer goods.

The request was only partially granted, leading Apple to submit an appeal.

Apple groweres here are not affected.

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Opinion

Letter from America Paul Hopkins in New York City

9/11 families ‘betrayed’ by Saudi golf deal Breaking his silence on the Professional Golfers Association (PGA) Tour’s sudden merger with LIV Golf, Rory McIlroy insists he feels like a “sacrificial lamb”. The Northern Irishman, who has been highly critical of the Saudi-backed tour and turned down offers worth upwards of €400m. from LIV, has confessed he “hates” the rebel circuit and had wanted it to” go away” but now hopes the merger will create a “brighter future” for the PGA Tour.

Calling an end to golf ’s civil war, the PGA and European Tours announced on the day after Memorial Day – ironically, some might say – that they had signed an agreement with the Saudibacked circuit to combine their businesses into a new, yet-to-be-named company.

However, on that Tuesday it appears even the Tour’s most prized stars – Tiger

Woods included – were left in the dark. PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan said conversations surrounding the deal had been secretly ongoing for seven weeks.

On why more weren’t kept in the loop, Monahan said: “Given the complexity of what we were dealing with, it’s not uncommon the circle of information is very tight. This was a shock to a lot of people because we were not in a position to share or explain... maintaining confidentiality through to the end.”

On that Tuesday after Memorial Day, which honours American’s fallen, I found myself at the Twin Towers Memorial where those once iconic towers are long since no more, having given way to Ground Zero with its seeping shroud of sorrow and sustained shock and daily curiosity-seekers. I

was there when word came through of the controversial pact.

Critics have hit out at the Saudi kingdom’s history of human rights violations.

Family members of those who perished in the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks have been more vocal the past week in their protests. Fifteen of the 19 hijackers on 9/11 were from Saudi Arabia, and Osama Bin Laden, the mastermind behind the attacks, was born in that country.

A group holding a vigil at the memorial site told me they were “shocked and deeply offended” by the news. Terry Strada, of the group, 9/11 Families United, said: “Mr Monahan talked last summer about knowing people who lost loved ones on 9/11, then wondered aloud on national television whether LIV golfers ever had to apolo-

gise for being a member of the PGA Tour. They do now – as does he.”

Terry’s husband Tom died in the World Trade Centre’s North Tower.

Another said: “PGA Tour leaders should be ashamed of their hypocrisy and greed. Our entire 9/11 community has been betrayed

by Commissioner Monahan and the PGA, as it appears their concern for our loved ones was merely windowdressing in their quest for money – never to honour the game of golf.”

Former President Donald Trump, who has hosted a number of LIV events at his golf courses, defended the merger, falsely claiming that “nobody’s got to the bottom of 9/11”. Trump weighed in on his Truth Social platform: “A big, beautiful, and glamorous deal for the wonderful world of golf.

Congrats to all!!!”

On a more serious note, Padraig Harrington tweeted: “My own country sells military technology to Saudi Arabia. So many other compromises. Yes, this is sports washing, and unfortunately it proves sports washing works. But maybe one positive — inclusion and trade has shown to improve and change countries involved for the better. My own country thought it was acceptable to lock up unmarried mothers as late as 1996.”

The new partnership is a major victory for Saudi ambitions in sport but the announcement has divided players, with Jay Monahan describing his meeting with golfers as “heated”.

The PGA Tour, the dominant force in men’s professional golf for generations, and LIV Golf, which made its debut just last year and

is backed by hundreds of millions of dollars in Saudi money, will together form an industry powerhouse that its supporters expect will transform the sport.

The rival circuits had spent the last year clashing in public, and the tentative agreement that emerged from secret negotiations blindsided virtually all of the world’s top players, agents and media. The deal will create a new company that would consolidate the PGA Tour’s prestige, television contracts and marketing muscle with Saudi money.

The 9/11 atrocities caused the deaths of 2,977 victims, with thousands more injured, many still today suffering long-term effects. The names of the 2,977 victims are engraved on black marble at the 9/11 Memorial. Engraved for ever...

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More childcare fee cuts likely A further 25% reduction in childcare fees is to be sought by Children's Minister Roderic O'Gorman as part of Budget 2024 talks.

This is despite Taoiseach Leo Varadkar casting doubts on the Green Party commitment in an interview with the Irish Times.

Mr O'Gorman previously committed to halving childcare fees over the course of two Budgets.

Last year, fees were cut

by 25% and it was expected there would be a further 25% reduction as part of the next Budget.

Mr Varadkar said: "I am not sure we can go as far as 25pc in the next one, but it certainly is our intention to bring about a further meaningful reduction in the cost of childcare for families.”

The reduction in childcare costs was the centrepiece of last year's Budget and is expected to again feature

prominently in the upcoming Budget.

Mr Varadkar's comments come despite the state coffers being flush with cash.

Backbench TDs and senators across the Coalition are also calling for a €20 increase in the weekly state pension.

Despite the Taoiseach's comments casting doubt on the previously promised 25% cut, it is understood Mr O'Gorman will continue to push for it.

He also wants further investment in childcare and better access for children with disabilities.

A Deis-type model for childcare facilities, which is currently in place for schools, is also on his wishlist.

"All parties in Government want to see childcare fees come down and we'll have to see what happens in three months' time,” a Government source told the Irish Times.

"This far out from a Budget, it's probably difficult for him to commit – his point was that we'd have to see the overall envelope, which is true. As with any Budget, there will be negotiation on it.”

The source also stated that the Summer Economic Statement, which sets out how much money the Government has to spend in the Budget, has not yet been published.

Gardaí get go-ahead for using body cams

Bell X1 and global acts for Forest Fest

Kilkenny music lovers are set to flock to catch the stellar line-up at Ireland’s 'easiest festival' next month.

Forest Fest is just four weeks away away, running from July 21-23 in the historic village of Emo in neighbouring Co Laois and boasting headliners like Ireland’s very own Bell X1 joining Sister Sledge, Britpop trailblazers Suede and Indie giants James.

New York folk great Suzanne Vega, Scottish duo

The Proclaimers are also performing at the festival, now in its second year.

But campervan and caravan options have now sold out, with most tickets snapped up by revellers who attended last year’s launch event.

Organiser Philip Meagher said almost two-thirds of ticket sales this year have been bought by music fans who rocked up to the first Forest Fest last July.

“That is a massive vote of

A spokesperson for Mr O'Gorman declined to comment on the Taoiseach's comments.

Social Democrats TD Jennifer Whitmore called on Mr Varadkar to clarify his comments and said the 50% reduction in fees across two Budgets was a "central pledge” by Mr O'Gorman.

"Minister O'Gorman is not the only one in Government who has made this commitment,” she said.

confidence, and shows we are doing something right,” Philip said.

Combining the glory days of the Féile with the buzz of Electric Picnic, the three-day fiesta is aimed at music fans over 30 and their families.

He said he was delighted that Sister Sledge, featuring Kathy Sledge, agreed to perform because the group’s ‘We Are Family’ hit perfectly sums up the festival’s ethos.

“I can’t wait to see Kathy and the band perform.”

Philip, a practising solicitor, described booking the acts for Ireland’s largest familyorientated music and arts festival as a ‘labour of love’.

“When I was picking the bands, I made sure they were match fit and already touring,” he said.

“It is the easiest festival you will ever go to in Ireland because there is none of the usual hassle associated with festivals.

“We’ve made it as stressfree as possible."

James headline the opening night on July 21, followed by Sister Sledge on Saturday and Suede the following night.

The warm-up act for the headliners will be The Pyro Collective, who will light up every night of the festival from an elevated position alongside the main arena. * For more information about tickets and camping, see: forestfest.ie/tickets/

Less than a fifth of renters feel secure Security of tenure remains the largest concern for tenants as nearly half of renters feel insecure in their accommodation, according to the latest report from the national housing charity Threshold. The charity’s annual We Are Generation Rent Survey, which gives a voice to the experiences of Threshold users, was launched on Wednesday, June 21, by Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government Darragh O’Brien.

Of 119 respondents, 59% are renting as they are unable to afford their own home, while 12% are unable to access social housing. Just 17% of people are renting by choice.

Feelings of insecurity in tenure were recorded at their highest level in the annual survey, with nearly half (48%) of respondents stating that they feel insecure in their accommodation.

This is a steady year-on-year increase compared to findings in 2022, where 44% of participants felt insecure. A significant drop in those who felt secure in their accommodation was noted in this year’s survey, with just 18% reporting security compared to 38% last year.

The cost of renting was found to be a considerable concern among the respondents. to the survey.

Gardaí in Kilkenny and throughout the country are to begin buying body cams after Fine Gael rowed back on its push to bring in facial recognition technology (FRT).

Fine Gael had wanted to bring in FRT through amendments to new laws that would allow Gardaí to wear body cameras.

Instead, the controversial technology will be brought in through a separate law, which senior ministers will also give Justice Minister Helen McEntee the go-ahead to draft.

An Garda Síochána will be able to immediately start buying body cams to improve the safety of frontline Gardaí as well as assist in the investigation of crimes.

The Green Party firmly resisted the push for FRT, even though Fine Gael insisted it would be used only for helping solve serious crimes.

These include crimes carrying the maximum sentence of life imprisonment, such as homicide, rape and aggravated sexual assault, child sexual abuse and child abduction.

The law on FRT will instead be a standalone piece of legislation, which Cabinet ministers will agree to draft on a "priority basis”.

FRT will only be used retrospectively to search photos – something already done manually on images legally in the possession of An Garda Síochána.

As the Green Party wanted, the law will be scrutinised by the Oireachtas Justice Committee.

Live FRT will not be allowed, and mass surveillance and profiling will also be banned.

Ms McEntee first proposed the use of FRT last year following discussions with the Garda commissioner, who said it was a requirement to ensure Gardaí had the tools they need to tackle and prevent crime.

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Part one

The Clock in the Window

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

For decades in Callan, one of the most striking and cherished facets of the local streetscape was a clock.

Though battered looking and antiquated, people swore by it.

The sturdy hands that revolved around its aged face recorded the passing of the seconds, minutes, hours and days of their lives with pinpoint accuracy.

The clock bore witness to a town’s cyclical comings and goings in an age when watches were deemed a luxury. And it will forever be associated in local folk memory with the man who displayed it prominently in his shop window: Owen Richardson.

Bridge Street Callan 1950 with Jimmy Lee Molly Cody and Kathleen McGrath

Owen came to Callan in the 30s after operating a mobile picture house business. At that time, he had lived in Ballingarry, County Tipperary. Before Ballingarry, he had spent his childhood years and teens north of the border.

He set up his watch and clock mending shop in Callan following a tragic accident in a Limerick cinema involving a fire that destroyed part of the building.

He quickly won the trust and confidence of locals with his expertise as a mender of timepieces. He worked mainly at night in the latter part of his career.

The reason for this, according to Owen, was that the vibrations from passing traffic interfered with his subtle, intricate adjustments and alterations to the innards of watches and clocks.

In the 60s and 70s, cars and lorries, while not as plentiful

Owen Richardson in the doorway of his shop in Callan

as today, were sufficiently loud and distracting to impede his concentration.

The level of expertise he brought to his nocturnal profession was every bit as demanding as the skills of a brain surgeon. Indeed, he often likened his occupation to that of a man who had to slice open human beings to get to the roots of whatever ailed them.

He knew every atom of the complex interior of a timepiece.

He had a working knowledge of clocks dating to the 1600s. At any one time, he had hundreds of broken, discarded watches

and clocks in the shop.

Apart from those dropped in for repair; he avidly collected spare parts from “hopeless cases”, as he described timepieces that were beyond mending.

These all served a purpose.

Owen had a large antique clock in the window of his shop.

Though showing the effects of advanced age, it was deemed close to infallible as a timekeeper. For decades this clock was an essential and much loved feature of Bridge Street.

It had Roman numerals and a quaint Old World facade that drew sympathetic and flattering

commentary from visitors to Callan, as well as commanding the respect of locals who knew Owen Richardson well and looked up to him. Not that he wished them to.

He was a humble man, despite his considerable expertise and intellectual powers.

He shared his vast knowledge of philosophy and a range of other subjects with visitors, many of them locals, who called to his shop during the day.

They listened to his tales of wonder and woe, and many people came to him for advice on just about any of life’s challenges. Because he knew what made the Callan people tick, as well as knew timepieces.

One woman, unfortunately, took a dislike to a Cuckoo Clock in Owen’s shop window that

The clock in Owen Richardsons shop window

she complained was continually waking her up at all hours of the morning. Retired midwife, Polly Fennelly lived directly opposite him on the other side of the street.

In the autumn of her years, she stood in her front doorway to greet passers-by, a smallish lady who had a kind word for most people…but a low tolerance threshold for Cuckoo Clocks!

Owen speculated endlessly about the mysterious nature of time itself. He wondered how a world beyond this one could have no passage of time, as we on earth understand the concept. He said he could never imagine a world without clocks.

The building in which he worked changed little over the decades. While time marched on with the constant tick-ticktick, it seemed to stand still in the Dickensian, shadowy, and almost cave-like shop interior.

(The iconic pictures of Owen Richardson and the clock in the window of his shop were taken by the late Jane O’ Malley who kindly gave them to me to include in a book about Callan back n 2004. Thanks to Peter Brett.for the picture of Lower Bridge Street- a few houses down from Owen’s shopripped up for pipe-laying.)

To be continued..

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

So, why are we in such a state of stasis?

Inertia isn’t a word you hear very often and yet it is something that applies here with extraordinary frequency in services that are meant to make life run smoothly. The word means to do nothing or leave unchanged. Fine, if things are functioning but where they are going wrong and nothing is done crisis results: a bit akin to leaving the taps running full blast when the sink is full.

The spillover can be massive, thousands of people may be affected by a state of stasis where nothing happens, due to inertia.

You don’t have to look far for glaring examples of the impact of inertia. Take the crisis in our hospitals: staffing hospitals over weekends with consultants, doctors nurses and con-

tinuing to use expensive equipment can make significant difference to overcrowding and long delays for treatment. People don’t plan to get sick at weekends but they do.

The situation could be fixed with new contracts, fair rosters and overtime pay where appropriate but this hasn’t happened on an ongoing basis, so the public lie on trollies in A&E, wait for operations and even die.

Take the parking crisis at Dublin Airport where the DAA are short 6,000 long-term parking places during the hectic holiday season. Why? because the Competition and Consumer Protection Authority (CCPC) has to rule on a fair deal over who gets the lease for the Quick Park site and that will take months to process.

Why can’t the DAA hire a field for parking? No, they can’t, that would require planning permission and that would take until next year. This is inertia due to strangulation by red tape – why not grant a shortterm lease or push through express planning permission and get the decisions made now?

It’s not as if there are handy alternatives to travelling by car: the airport bus in my neck of the woods only runs every two hours; a taxi to the airport costs around €100 and involves queueing for an hour or so on the way back.

That’s all be should I want to get to the airport but thankfully I don’t. And we will have to wait decades before we get what we ought to have – a Metro service to the airport.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

Meantime, plans to expand to make Dublin a major European airport continue.

The Devil is in the detail and it’s in those small cogs that are meant to keep things running that snarl ups caused by inertia happen. The health service is short of skilled health workers but a log jam over visas is preventing nurses from overseas coming to Ireland. Qualified health workers from countries like India and the Far East currently need to take a costly exam and to come here on a temporary visa to do so, delays mean that applicants miss exam date . Nurses have to start the process over again or more likely decide that Ireland is not for them.

But no one takes responsibility, sounds the alarm bells, cures the visa jam or

combined with a failure to take responsibility and use initiative. Psychological inertia is a state where individuals lack the motivation to make decisions.

Maybe it’s no coincidence that the lack of stasis, of forward movement, often involves the civil service, individuals working in businesses can’t afford the inertia effect, as they either lose their jobs or their firm goes bust.

We are patient at putting up with bad service when what we really want is effective service, and when it isn’t delivered politicians are the ones who get blamed.

In physics inertia is where matter stays in an existing state until is changed by an external force. That force for change could be the way we vote in the next election.

Tips for nervous flyers CLAIR WHITTY

Fear of flying is a common question I get asked about at this time of year. Some people are just a bit nervous and for others it borders on terror.

There is I think, for most of us the nerves around travel which are usually associated with getting to the airport or meeting point on time, or did you pack your passport, tickets, or medications. You know you have everything because you have checked a thousand times already. But this doesn’t stop your heart stopping when you are nearly half way there when

introduces a better system, before staff shortages create more misery in the health service.

There are plenty more examples: Look at CAMHS, the Child and Adolescent Health Service, where chronic staff shortages mean wait times can be up to a year. Advertising for medical staff to come home from Australia won’t cut it.

Why should they?

One of the ironies about these failures to act is that it’s not costly to put things right, especially when compared to the cost in human as well as financial terms in leaving them as they are.

Efficient systems are surely better than dysfunctional ones. The cause of the inertia syndrome seems to lie in a fatalistic view that you have to put up with things the way they are,

it pops into your head again, did I pack my passport? I think this is quite normal but for those of you that experience fear around travel there are some supplements that might help.

Rescue Remedy drops, spray, or pastilles have been a life saver for many people. You can take them frequently before the flight and the lozenges are great to suck when the journey starts. A.Vogel Passiflora Spray is another option, it contains Passiflora and Lemon Balm two of nature’s calming agents.

Soloray L-Theanine is a good choice if you are bordering on a panic attack. You can take a couple of tablets throughout the day. I would start these supplements as soon as you feel

any nervousness about your journey. If you are nervous and fearful you might need a mix of all three of these supplements.

If you can’t take supplements, you could try Lavender oil, it’s traditionally used to aid relaxation and to create a sense of calmness. You can across place a drop of oil on the temples and wrists and breathe in the aroma to help you relax.

Carrying a healing crystal is a popular choice, especially for nervous children. There are several that you could choose from but my favourite would be blue lace agate. This is a beautiful crystal with a pale blue colour. It has a gentle, calming effective and eases nervousness when held or worn. It’s a great crystal to choose for anxiety, stress, and for overwhelming emotions.

Remember to breath. Deep breathing will aid relaxation and help take your mind off the situation.

Wishing you safe travels, if you have any questions feel free to give us a call. We would love to help.

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

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

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News

SPECIAL REPORT An important step has been taken toward establishing one of the first comprehensive regulations to regulate AI by the European Union Parliament. By taking this step, the European Union (EU) has set itself up as a possible role model for authorities throughout the world who are working to establish standards for the quickly developing technology.

An important legislative milestone has been reached with the European Parliament’s approval of the AI Act draft legislation. Facial recognition apps and other AI systems like ChatGPT are singled out in the bill because of the harm they may potentially do to humans. The AI Act mandates more openness on the part of AI programmers by mandating the disclosure of additional information about the data used to train their systems.

The European Union’s AI Act adopts a risk-based approach to regulation, zeroing in on the most dangerous applications for humans. AI systems used to run essential infrastructure, in the judicial system, and to allocate public services and government benefits all fall under this category. Similar to the medical approval procedure, the law mandates that AI developers perform risk evaluations before releasing their technology to the general public.

In the context of the AI Act, the deployment of facial recognition technology is a hotly contested topic. Although the European Parliament has agreed to prohibit live facial recognition, it is unclear whether any exceptions should be made for national security or other law enforcement purposes. In addition, the measure would make it illegal for businesses to harvest biometric data from social media sites in order to compile databases, a contro-

EU steps in to regulate AI versial technique that came to light after it was employed by the facial-recognition firm Clearview AI. Systems that generate content in response to input, such as ChatGPT, are another area of focus for the AI Act.

Increased disclosure obligations, such as summaries of protected content used in the system’s training, would be implemented under the new law. To avoid the creation of illicit content, creators of generative AI systems would also

need to include protections.

Although the European Union (EU) hopes to take the lead in AI legislation, others have argued that a healthy equilibrium must be maintained between innovation and oversight. The Computer

and Communications Industry Association thinks that future AI regulations in Europe should allow for some wiggle room for developers to create beneficial AI applications while still addressing clearly stated concerns.

Following the European Parliament’s acceptance, the European Commission and the Council of the European Union will negotiate a final version of the AI Act. Officials are targeting the end of the year for a final deal.

The European Union Parliament’s recent measures provide a potential blueprint for other countries dealing with the issues of AI advancement as Europe moves forward with its suite of AI rules. The European Union is making a significant move toward citizen protection and technological advancement in the field of artificial intelligence with the passage of the AI Act. Colm McDonnell of Deloitte said recently: “AI is already a predominant factor in many transformational businesses and technical applications, typically combining data analytics and machine learning (ML). Although Irish financial institutions are concerned about the disruption by newer entities utilising AI, they have realised its potential and advantage is significant in the long-run.

“Irish hedge funds, brokerdealers and other firms are turning to AI for higher uncorrelated returns and to optimise trade execution. Both public and private sector institutions may use these technologies for regulatory compliance, surveillance, data quality assessment and fraud detection,” he said.

“Some Irish banks are using AI platforms to deliver more personalised customer interaction. However, the limited availability of accurate data in sufficient quantity and quality coupled with inadequate knowledge on the risks escorted by AI has delayed the wide spread adoption of AI in the financial sector.

“However, these obstacles to operationalisation have already begun to be removed, and I would recommend that organisations don’t wait for perfect data or they will never commence.”

MEP Kelly signs law for Windsor Framework Seán Kelly MEP co-signed updated EU trade laws to implement the Windsor Framework agreement on post-Brexit trading arrangements, alongside European Parliament President, Roberta Metsola and the Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jessika Roswall at the European Parliament, Strasbourg.

The new rules, which will ensure Northern Irish manufacturers will not be charged extra tariffs on steel imports from Great Britain, is one of three pieces of new EU legislation needed to put the Windsor Framework into practice. Other legislation adopted update internal rules on medicines and sanitary &

­ ­

phytosanitary (SPS) goods in line with the overall agreement.

The Ireland South MEP led the negotiation of this

proposed regulation, which relates to Tariff-Rate Quotas, through the Parliament. The file was adopted, with the approval of 617 MEPs, in May.

Following the official signing last week, the proposed Act is now law.

“I welcome the overwhelming support of my fellow MEPs

for this law. There is a shared willingness amongst MEPs to ensure the conditions are right for the swift implementation of the Windsor Framework agreement. Our common objective is to support stability and prosperity in Northern Ireland,” MEP Kelly said.

Post-Brexit trading arrangements remain a point of contention in Northern Ireland, where the Democratic Unionist Party has refused to re-enter the power-sharing Executive, as the second-largest party, until they feel their concerns regarding the Northern Ireland Protocol, and now the Windsor Framework, have been addressed.

The Windsor Framework answers many of the concerns

raised by business and stakeholders, and will significantly reduce checks and paperwork for goods travelling into Northern Ireland.

Said Mr Kelly: “I hope that all political groups in Northern Ireland can get behind the agreement, that we can move past the current stalemate and that power-sharing can be restored. Times are tough, and people in Northern Ireland deserve a government that can effectively response to their everyday concerns.”

Once the EU receives appropriate written guarantees from the UK regarding the agreed safeguards on customs, SPS and medicines, the provisions of the Windsor Framework will gradually begin to apply.

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Possible reasons for low uptake on rent aid Nine months on, half of eligible individuals have yet to apply for the Government’s rent credit tax relief scheme.

New figures recently obtained by RTÉ News reveal that, out of 400,000 eligible people, only 230,000 have requested support, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the scheme.

The scheme, introduced in the 2023 Budget, offers eligible single renters €500 annually and couples €1,000 in tax relief. The credit reduces the amount of Income Tax payable for a tax year, with relief granted at a rate of 20%. This is also available to parents or guardians paying accommodation costs for a student living away from home who can also receive financial support.

To benefit from the Rent Tax Credit, you must have an Income Tax liability to offset against it, but the credit does not provide relief against the Universal

Social Charge (USC) or Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI). If the credit exceeds the Income Tax liability, a partial refund is given equal to the total Income Tax liability for the year.

Why the low uptake? When the scheme was announced in the Budget, Threshold, the housing charity, said that “tax relief for renters, in budget 2023, is worth just seven days of rent in Dublin” and that the Government was not doing enough to publicise the available supports. Other critics highlight that the requirement for landlords to be registered with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) is limiting access to the fund.

The RTB is the public body set up to support and develop a well-functioning rental housing sector. Their remit extends to the private rental, Approved Housing Body (AHB) and Student

Specific Accommodation sectors. All private residential landlords, Approved Housing Bodies (who are not-for-profit housing providers, often referred to as Housing Associations) and landlords of Student Specific Accommodation must register their tenancies with the RTB. The RTB’s role is to regulate the rental sector, provide information and research to inform policy, maintain a national register of tenancies, resolve disputes between tenants and landlords, initiate an investigation into conduct by a landlord, and provide information to the public to ensure tenancies run smoothly and no issues arise. Hence, the hesitancy of some renters to approach their landlords due to concerns about their ‘home’ being an unregistered tenancy or belonging to a non-compliant landlord.

Marian Ryan, Director of Business Development with Taxback.com, echoes these sentiments, stating that many renters have encountered obstacles when attempting to claim the tax credit. She cites the requirement for landlords to be registered with the Residential Tenancies Board as a significant barrier. Some landlords may be reluctant to register, while others fear rent increases if their tenants inquire about registration.

Still, she encourages eligible taxpayers to consider applying for the valuable tax credit.

The conditions for claiming the Rent Tax Credit are outlined on the Revenue website. The link is on the front page of Revenue. ie. Formal claims must be made by completing the Income Tax return for the relevant tax year.

To be successful rental payments must have been made

under a tenancy agreement with the landlord’s consent.

The RTB registration requirement may apply, except for ‘rent-a-room’ or ‘digs’ arrangements and payments made by parents on behalf of their children. Furthermore, the rental property in question must be a residential property located in Ireland.

But individuals receiving State housing support, such as HAP, Rent Supplement, or RAS, are not eligible for the Rent Tax Credit and landlords who are Housing Associations or Approved Housing Bodies are also excluded.

Revenue advises claimants to provide comprehensive information about their rental arrangements, including the RTB number if applicable. The RTB website offers guidance on obtaining the number. Failure to provide the RTB number when requested by Revenue may result in the withdrawal

of the credit. You will also have to supply the address of the rented property, including the eircode, the landlord’s name, address, and PPS number, as well as confirmation of registration with the RTB. To claim for the tax credit in 2022, PAYE taxpayers can complete their Income Tax Return online in myAccount.ie, while self-assessed individuals can claim through the annual Income Tax Return (Form 11) in Revenue Online Service (ROS).

For the tax year 2023, PAYE taxpayers can claim in realtime, again, through myAccount.ie or wait to claim when completing their Income Tax Return for 2023 next year. The scheme currently accepts requests for 2022 and 2023, with plans for continuation until 2025. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362622

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News Science & Wellbeing Our gut plays a substantial role in our health and wellbeing. Most research, however, focuses on bacteria, rather than the viruses that hide within them. Now, research from the University of Copenhagen, newly published in Nature Microbiology, found that people who live past age 100 have a greater diversity of bacteria-infecting viruses in their intestines than younger people. Furthermore, they found that the viruses are linked to changes in bacterial metabolism that may support mucosal integrity and resistance to pathogens.

In the early 1970s, scientists discovered that the composition of our gut microbiota changes as we age. Recent studies have found that the changes are remarkably predictable and follow a pattern: The microbiota undergoes rapid, dramatic changes as toddlers transition to solid foods; further changes become less dramatic during childhood as the microbiota strikes a balance between the host and the environment; and, as that balance is achieved, the microbiota remains mostly stable during our adult years (ages 18-60).

However, that stability is lost as we enter our elderly years, and our gut undergoes dramatic reorganisation.

This discovery led scientists to question what causes this change and what effect it has on health.

“We are always eager to find out why some people live extremely long lives. Previous research has shown that the intestinal bacteria of old Japanese citizens produce brandnew molecules that make them resistant to pathogenic — that is, disease-promoting — microorganisms. And if their intestines are better protected against infection, well, then that is probably one of the things that cause them to live longer than others,” said Joachim Johansen, a Japanese motor manufacturer Toyota has revealed plans for several new technologies, including next-generation EV batteries, aerodynamic drag reduction, and manufacturing upgrades to help transform the company in the electric era.

After discovering a breakthrough, Toyota says it aims to offer solid-state state EV batteries that could potentially offer over 900 miles driving range.

Several Toyota executives spoke at the event, explaining the automaker’s upcoming EV tech strategy with concepts that are under development.

Although governments and investors are urging Toyota to go all-electric, the Japanese automaker continues to stick to a hybrid strategy that includes EVs, PHEVs, HEVs, and fuel cell vehicles (FCEV).

Toyota did reveal several new innovations to support its next-generation EVs, including the following:

to common gut pathogens.

Although the late-in-life microbiota change could be beneficial to health, it remained unclear what facilitated this shift. To solve this mystery, Johansen and his colleagues turned their attention to an often overlooked member of the microbiome: viruses.

“Our intestines contain billions of viruses living inside bacteria, and they could not care less about human cells; instead, they infect the bacterial cells. And seeing as there are hundreds of different types of bacteria in our intestines, there are also lots of bacterial viruses,” said Simon Rasmussen, Johansen’s

research advisor.

For decades, scientists have explored the possibility of phage therapy — that is, using viruses that infect bacteria (called bacteriophages or simply phages) to kill pathogens.

However, bacteriophages can also enhance the bacteria they infect. For example, they can provide genes that help their bacterial host attack other bacteria or provide new metabolic capabilities. Both of these can change which bacteria colonise the gut and, in turn, protect against certain disease states.

Johansen and his colleagues were interested in what types of viruses centenarians had in their gut and whether those viruses carried genes that altered metabolism. They compared fecal samples of healthy centenarians (100+ year-olds) with samples from younger patients (18-100 year-olds).

They found that the centenarians had a more diverse virome, including previously undescribed viral genera.

They also revealed an enrichment of genes supporting key steps in the sulfate metabolic pathway. The authors speculate that this translates to increased levels of microbially derived sulfide, which may lead to health-promoting outcomes, such as resistance to potential pathogens.

“We have learned that if a virus pays a bacterium a visit, it may actually strengthen the bacterium. The viruses we found in the healthy Japanese centenarians contained extra genes that could boost the bacteria,” said Johansen.

Simon Rasmussen said: “If you discover bacteria and viruses that have a positive effect on the human intestinal flora, the obvious next step is to find out whether only some or all of us have them. If we are able to get these bacteria and their viruses to move in with the people who do not have them, more people could benefit from them.”

* Manufacturing upgrades to reduce costs * Hypersonic tech to enhance aerodynamics * EV battery tech, including solid-state batteries Fundamental changes to improve EV product appeal To ensure its future EVs are profitable, Toyota says it will incorporate a simple and slim vehicle body structure through Giga casting. The process used by Tesla simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of pieces needed to make the car.

Toyota will also integrate technology like a self-propelling assembly line to enable mass-produced cars to move along the assembly line independently.

Through the investments, Toyota aims to cut production lead time, production processes, and factory investment for mass-produced EVs by 50%, a significant fixed cost reduction.

The Japanese automaker is also studying new technol-

ogy that can reduce drag, such as hypersonic tech used in rockets, for its EVs. Toyota says it’s exploring innovations with the Space Systems Division of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Rocket hypersonic tech for aerodynamics.

One of the biggest takeaways from Toyota’s briefing was its next-gen EV battery tech. Toyota says it’s advancing its efforts to introduce its next generation of electric vehicles in 2026 with a cruising range of over 1,000 km.

The automaker plans to expand its lineup to provide various options to offer buyers more driving range at lower costs.

Toyota will offer two nextgen battery types in 2026 and 2027, including performance and popularised versions.

The performance will use the same lithium nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery chemistry as the bZ4X electric SUV, but will offer 20% more driving range with a

20% cost reduction.

The bZ4X offers 615 km CLTC driving range However, a 20% increase would be just over 458 miles CLTC. Its ‘further evolution’ includes a high-performance battery that combines a bipolar structure with a high nickel cathode to increase cruising range by 10%, reduce costs by 20%, and offer quick charging (10% to 80%) in 20 minutes or less.

Toyota has also discovered a technological breakthrough with solid-state EV battery tech. The battery is expected to offer a 20% improvement in cruising range.

The automaker says it’s accelerating development and aims for mass production from 2027 to 2028, targeting 20% more range and a 10-minute quick charge. A higher-performance version is under research and development, which Toyota says will deliver 50% more cruising range, suggesting it would be over 900 miles.

How your gut viruses could help you live to be 100

researcher at the University of Copenhagen.

In 2021, a team of Japanese scientists set out to characterise the effect of this change on older people’s health. They specifically wanted to determine if people who lived to be over 100 years old — that is, centenarians — underwent changes that provided them

with unique benefits. They discovered centenarians have a distinct gut community enriched in microorganisms that synthesise potent antimicrobial molecules that can kill multi-drug resistant pathogens.

In other words, the late-life shift in microbiota reduces an older person’s susceptibility

Better electric batteries on way from Toyota

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Travel & Leisure continuing to entice wellheeled travellers with thermal baths and high-class spa hotels such as Brenners Park-Hotel & Spa.

1. Courtroom 600 Many people who visit Germany want to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events of the 20th century. Not only does a trip to Courtroom 600 means the chance to step inside the room where Nazi leaders were tried for their unspeakable crimes, but visitors can also watch real footage of the Nuremberg trials and learn about the legacy of the verdicts.

6. Museum Island “I always tell first-time visitors to Berlin to check out Museum Island,” says Caroline Quinn, a travel expert at Black Tomato.

Situated in the middle of the Spree River, this architecturally stunning cultural complex houses five magnificent museums: Altes Museum, Neues Museum, Alte Nationalgalerie, Bode Museum, and Pergamon Museum.

2. Bach-Museum Leipzig Lovers of classical music should make the pilgrimage to Leipzig, where Johann Sebastian Bach composed most of his major works and spent the last 27 years of his life. The Bach-Museum Leipzig houses a collection of instruments, original manuscripts, and other memorabilia related to the German composer.

3. East Side Gallery Once a symbol of oppression — and an enduring reminder of Germany’s turbulent past — the concrete barrier that used to divide Berlin now serves a vastly different purpose thanks to the creation of the East Side Gallery. Artists transformed the largest remaining section of the Berlin Wall into an open-air art gallery with colourful, thought-provoking graffiti murals.

4. Rothenburg ob der Tauber One of the most beautiful small towns in the world – and pictured here – Rothenburg ob der Tauber is an endlessly charming village along Germany’s fabled Romantic Road in the Franconia region of Bavaria. Its cobblestone lanes, half- timbered houses, churches, medieval walls, and

When in Rome, there is never a bad time for wine tasting. From morning sips and food market tours in the Prati district to evening and sunset wine tasting, the Eternal City has got you covered. With ancient cellars, wine bars, tasting rooms, and ample vino-infused experiences awaiting travelers in the capital city, it only makes sense to spend some time sampling wines here.

Popular spots for tastings and more include Vino Roma, Rimessa Roscioli, and Al Vino Al Vino. Rome is also home to wonderful vino and spirits shops where patrons can peruse aisle after aisle, sip, and shop. Wine stores like Enoteca Cosantini offer shoppers a vast selection of local, organic, and regional wines to sample before purchasing. Likewise, the Eternal City is littered with charming wine bars that offer delicious bites and wine-infused desserts.

Cantina Belsiana, L’Angolo Divino Enoteca Vineria, VinAllegro, Quartino

7. Schloss Proschwitz Schloss Proschwitz is a beautiful 18th-century, neo-baroque castle in the district of Meissen with elegant interiors and gardens.

The estate also plays host to Saxony’s oldest private winery, which invites visitors for cellar tours and tastings.

13 great places in Germany towers look like they were plucked from a storybook.

5. Baden-Baden European aristocracy

(including Napoleon III and Queen Victoria) have decamped to Baden-Baden, a historic spa town on the edge of southwestern Germany’s

tour.

Known as the heartland of Italian wine production, Tuscany is an absolute must on any traveler’s todo list for several reasons.

10. Neuschwanstein Castle One of Germany’s most famous and frequented attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle welcomes a whopping 1.4 million visitors each year. Travellers come from all over to gawk at the fairytale medieval palace and far-reaching views from atop a dramatic rocky hilltop in the Bavarian Alps. Quinn recommends booking timedentry reservations to avoid waiting in lengthy lines.

11. Linderhof Palace And you don’t have to go far to see another stately residence. Instead of (or after) fighting the crowds at Neuschwanstein Castle, Dunch suggests visiting nearby Linderhof Palace. It’s easy to see why this idyllic fantasy ‘hunting lodge’ was Ludwig II’s favourite getaway.

8. Hofbräuhaus The most famous of the many beer halls in Munich, Hofbräuhaus takes patrons back in time to an era when tokens were used to pay for steins and shares the tradition of gemütlichkeit (geniality) with visitors from around the world through live music, warm hospitality, and homemade Bavarian food.

12. Lindau Set on the shores of Lake Constance in Bavaria, Lindau attracts tourists with its harbourfront charm and scenic views. On the itinerary?

Catch sight of Switzerland across the water as you stroll the streets, check out the lighthouse, pause along Seepromenade to snap photos of the 12th-century Mangturm watchtower, and embark on a kayak excursion.

Black Forest, since the 19th century. This Belle Époque resort town retains its glamorous reputation and wellness credentials,

9. Meissen’s Porcelain Museum The medieval town of Meissen has produced fine figurines and crockery since 1710. The Meissen Porcelain Museum tells the story of Meissen porcelain through a collection of more than 2,000 objects — including ornate tables used in the royal courts

13. Spreewald Biosphere Reserve Tucked between Berlin and Dresden, the UNESCO-listed Spreewald Biosphere Reserve is a unique inland delta along the Spree with waterways and woodlands. It’s an idyllic setting for kayaking along the channels and soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

Tuscany is the perfect spot for newbie tasters who want to learn more about this region’s most celebrated drink. On the other hand, if you are a connoisseur

of wine, Tuscany is still delightful and brimming with viticulture that is next to none. Though technically not a city, Tuscany is undoubtedly the place to be if you want to enjoy some world-class vino.

Located in the central region of Umbria, Orvieto is for wine lovers. With its majestic surrounding landscape, famous and multifaceted white wines, and overall phenomenal viticulture, Orvieto is another must-add to your bucket list. Here, visitors will find a charming city with numerous vineyards, wineries, organic farms, and inviting wine bars.

Of course, a tasting adventure in Orvieto is more than possible and is highly recommended, even if you are not a big fan of white wines. A few top-rated wineries to check out in this city of wine Next on your once-ina-lifetime wine tour of Italy should definitely be the city of Verona. A popular destination for wine enthusiasts, Verona is

filled with incredible sights and has a rich history, stunning architecture, and a rave-worthy culinary scene. But that’s not all the town rumoured to inspire Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” has to offer — this UNESCO heritage site also has quite the selection of wines, vineyards, and tasting opportunities.

Wines like Amarone Della Valpolicella, Garuda, Lugana, and Valpolicella Ripasso hail from this city.

For wine lovers looking to sample exclusive wines, a trip to Barolo is in order.

Here wine fans can delight in full-bodied red wines and first-rate food pairings.

The wines hailing from this famed Italian city are very similar to the rich Pinot Noirs of Burgundy, so if you enjoy light-tomedium- bodied vinos with complex fruity flavours, then wine tasting in Barolo is definitely for you.

Vineyards in Barolo span 11 villages and collectively make up the distinguished vinos that garner the name — the ‘Wine of Kings’.

A guide to wine tasting in Italy Enoteca, and Enoteca Cuvereie, for instance, are just a few places in this iconic city that visitors should check out on their Italian wine appreciation

of Europe in the 18th century, vases, candle holders, and intricate animal figurines.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Jim ‘Foxy’ Maher: fellow teacher and author Jim Maher passed away on the June 13. Jim taught me in 3rd class in the Christian Brothers Primary School, known to one and all as ‘The Brothers’. Jim was also known to one and all as ‘Foxy’. I have no idea where that nickname came from but ‘Foxy’ he was until in later years I came to know him as Jim, a fellow teacher, fellow school principal and fellow author.

Indeed I was in awe of Jim’s output (Irish and local history, a biography of Harry Boland and The Flying Column West Kilkenny 1916-1921 just to mention two) even into his Eighties.

I have some great memories of Jim as a teacher. The first, a serious one. Every morning before class commenced Jim would have us all stand and join with him in a simple Hail Mary

for a ‘very special intention’. That intention I later discovered was for Jim’s sister Ann (wife of the late Jim Bateman of Springhill Hotel fame) who was seriously ill and died quite young. As an eight-year old I was hugely impressed by my teacher’s emotion, and devotion, throughout that short prayer.

On a lighter note I vividly remember a time when Jim, in a convivial mood, scrunched up a pound note (not to be scoffed at back in the Fifties) into a small ball and leaning back in his chair threw it towards a slight opening, maybe a couple of inches, at the top of our classroom window, the purpose being to slot the ‘ball’ through the gap. Time after time Jim tossed the ‘ball’ at the window and time after time it failed to go out much to

the amusement of us, his pupils – Jim’s intended purpose, no doubt, to inject a little levity into the school day.

And then, after numerous attempts, lo and behold, Jim’s shot was straight and true and out the window went the pound note!

And where did it land? In a patch of grass outside about a foot high. There was no laughing now. Jim leapt from his chair, threw open the bottom half of the window, grabbed the nearest lad to him and didn’t quite throw him out the window but most certainly hastened his exit to try and retrieve the pound note.

He didn’t.

Soon each and every one of us were out scouring the long grass. The pound was eventually found and Jim rewarded the finder with a

thruppenny bit. Or maybe it was a tanner (six pence).

And then there was Dick Lyons. Dick and I were classmates since ‘Baby Infants’ with the Presentation Nuns. Dick was a character and emigrated early in life to the US (and if

“I was in awe of Jim’s [writing] output..

perchance this gets to you, Dick, my heartiest greetings to you and yours). One fine day Jim, frustrated by Dick’s antics, threw a stick of chalk at Dick (not an uncommon practice back then). And what did the bold Dick do? He threw the stub of chalk back at ‘Foxy’! Shock, horror in the classroom! Did Dick Lyons just throw a ‘missile’ (albeit a stick of chalk) at his teacher? He did. And to the best of my recollection, Jim, ‘Foxy’ Maher laughed.

Fair dues, Jim. Now Jim, as a teacher, was considered tough and had in his possession a tattered old leather that was literally falling apart at the seams, comical really, until you were on the receiving end of it for a flurry of ‘slaps.’

However as we progressed to sixth class and the more serious use (and misuse) of

the leather by one Brother Grennan, known to one and all as ‘Jack’ because of his resemblance to the Hollywood actor, Jack Palance, we looked back on those ‘slaps’ of Jim’s as harmless and came to realise that he was a gentleman at heart.

In latter years I became quite friendly with Jim and grew fond of the man. I’d bump into him, and his wife Mary, regularly in the Kilkenny Design restaurant where we’d sit a while and chat. I’d also bump into him in the archival room of the library in John’s Green where he sourced material for his history books. I have no memory of ever crying for a deceased teacher but I shed a tear for Jim ‘Foxy’ Maher when I heard of his passing.

Rest in peace, Jim. Ar dheis Dé go raibh d’anam dílis.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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News

Kilkenny County Council elect Cathaoirleach for 2023/2024 and mayor and chairpersons of municipal districts Mayor of Kilkenny City Municipal District.

Callan/Thomastown Municipal District Cllr. Deirdre Cullen, Fianna Fáil, was elected Chairperson of the Callan/Thomastown Municipal District and Cllr.

Joe Lyons was elected Deputy Chairperson.

Castlecomer Municipal District Fianna Fáil Councillor, Cllr.

Cathaoirleach: Fine Gael Councillor Michael Doyle has been elected as Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council at the Council AGM this afternoon in the Council Chamber, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny.

The newly elected Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council expressed his pride at taking over the role of Kilkenny’s first citizen.

Leas Cathaoirleach: Cllr. John Coonan, Fianna

Fáil, has been elected Leas Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council.

MUNICIPAL DISTRICTS Kilkenny City Municipal District Cllr. Joe Malone, Fianna Fáil,

was elected Mayor of the Kilkenny Municipal District at Municipal District AGM held on Friday, 9th of June 2023, in Council Chamber, City Hall, Kilkenny.

Cllr. Martin Brett, Fine Gael, has been elected Deputy

Michael Delaney, has been elected Chairperson of the Castlecomer Municipal District and Cllr. John Brennan was elected Deputy Chairperson.

Piltown Municipal District Fianna Fáil Councillor Gerard Frisby was elected Chairperson of the Piltown Municipal District and Cllr.

Eamonn Aylward was elected Deputy Chairperson.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Global Report If you’re over 45, you grew up in a world dominated by two superpowers. The United States and its allies set the rules on one side of the Berlin Wall, while the Soviet Union called the shots on the other. Nearly every other country had to align its political, economic, and security systems with one side or the other. That was the world back then, a bipolar world.

Then, in 1991, the Soviet Union collapsed, leaving the United States as the world’s sole superpower. The US dictated outcomes both through its dominant role in international organisations and by exerting raw power. That was a unipolar world.

About 15 years ago, the world changed again— and it got more complicated. The US became less interested in being the world’s police officer, the architect of global trade, and even the cheerleader of global values. Other countries, getting more powerful, were increasingly able to ignore rules they didn’t like and, occasionally, set some themselves. That’s a ‘G-Zero’ world: a non-polar world without global leaders.

Three things happened to cause this geopolitical recession, when the global architecture no longer lines up with the underlying balance of power.

First, Russia wasn’t brought into the Western- led international order. Now a former great power in serious decline, Russia has become extremely angry and sees the West as its primary adversary on the global stage. Whether most of the blame for this lies with the US and its allies or with Russia, the fact is that is where we are.

The Mar-a-Lago classified documents case isn’t the only legal threat Donald Trump faces as he seeks a second term in office, but it’s so far the most serious. There are three ways he may once again get the better of the justice system.

Trump “seemed to win the judicial lottery” when, “in an apparently random twist of fate,” his case “landed before U.S. District Court Judge Aileen Cannon,” one of his appointees and “favourite judges,” Politico reported.

Cannon oversaw Trump’s earlier attempt to derail the case by contesting the FBI’s seizure of documents from his Mar-a-Lago club. “Legal experts described Cannon’s pro-Trump rulings at the time as audacious and even lawless, and a conservative appeals-court panel (which itself consisted of two other Trump appointees) quickly overruled her,” Politico added. “Now, Cannon will be in an even more powerful position to steer Trump’s legal fortunes.” Some legal experts have argued for her recusal or reassignment from the case.

There are several ways Cannon could steer the case to Trump’s advantage, up to and including unilaterally acquitting him on any or all of the 37 counts under Rule 29 of the Federal Rules of Criminal

ery day? The war in Ukraine, confrontation over Taiwan, nuclear tensions with Iran and North Korea, you name it — some 90% of them are directly or indirectly because of the geopolitical recession caused by these three issues.

In other words, the crises are not about individual leaders.

They are a structural feature of

our geopolitical landscape. Yet for better or worse, geopolitical recessions don’t last forever.

And the coming global order is something to watch for.

The US and China are not superpowers today—at least not in the way we’ve always used the term. And no superpowers means no single global order.

Instead, what we have today is multiple world orders, separate but overlapping.

First, we have a unipolar security order. The US is the only country that can send soldiers, sailors, and military hardware to every corner of the world.

Nobody else comes close.

America’s role in the security order today is more essential — and, indeed, more dominant — than it was a decade ago.

China is rapidly growing its military capabilities in Asia, but nowhere else in a significant way. That’s increasingly concerning to America’s IndoPacific allies, who now rely on the US security umbrella more than before.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has similarly made Europe the most dependent on US-led NATO it has been in decades.

Meanwhile, Russia’s military has been weakened by the loss of some 200,000 troops and much of its critical materiel in Ukraine, all of which it’ll find hard to rebuild in the face of Western sanctions.

Yes, China, Russia, and others have nuclear weapons, but actually using them is still tantamount to suicide.

The United States is the world’s sole security superpower — and will remain so for at least the next decade or two.

a victim of unfair treatment by powerful forces on the political left”.

Prosecutors and Trump’s lawyers will have a certain number of discretionary “peremptory” challenges to winnow down the 12 jurors and four alternates, as well as unlimited challenges to disqualify jurors “for cause,” typi-

cally bias. “Cannon will have the power to accept or reject any ‘for cause’ challenges, potentially tilting the composition of the jury,” the Times reported.

Every juror is important, because if all 12 can’t decide on a verdict, it’s a hung jury and a mistrial. “Prosecutors would then have to decide whether to start over with a new trial,” the Times explained.

Finally the act of delay and destroy. “Trump has long pursued a strategy of trying to delay legal proceedings against him to run out the clock,” the Times reported. Once again, Cannon “is really in the driver’s seat in terms of the pacing,” retired federal judge Nancy Gertner told the Post.

“The danger here is if it backs up into the 2024 campaign or if the case lingers until after Trump is reelected or another Republican elected, and they can direct the Justice Department to drop charges or pardon the president.” Trump, if elected, could attempt an unprecedented self-pardon.

In a very real sense, the voters are probably jurors here too. Realistically, “I don’t think we’ll have this case resolved before the election,” Rachel Barkow, a professor at New York University School of Law, told the Times. “And so the election may end up resolving it.”

Where the world order stands right now Second, China was brought into US-led institutions —but on the presumption that, as the Chinese became more integrated, wealthy, and powerful, they would also become more American (ie. a free-market democracy willing to become a responsible stakeholder in the US-led order and play by the rules without wanting to

change them). As it turns out, they’re still Chinese—and the US is not ready to accept that.

And third, the US and its allies ignored the tens of millions of their own citizens who felt left behind by globalisation.

Their grievances were further fuelled by growing income and wage inequality, shifting demographics and identity poli-

tics, and polarisation from new media technologies. After decades of benign neglect, most of these citizens have grown fundamentally mistrustful of their governments and of democracy itself, in turn making their leaders less able or willing to lead.

All the geopolitical crises you see in the headlines ev-

How Donald Trump may yet walk Procedure. After the prosecution and defence present their cases, Trump’s lawyers could ask for a Rule 29 acquittal and Cannon could agree, essentially asserting that no reasonable jury could find the plaintiff guilty under the evidence presented at trial.

Then there’s the possible case of a hung jury.

It would obviously be better for Trump if the jury did not convict him, and some members of his legal team are arguing that “the case is winnable at trial through careful jury selection — one juror is all a defendant needs to convince to avoid conviction,” The Washington Post reported.

The jurors will be drawn

from Miami-Dade County, which has traditionally leaned slightly Democratic but has “grown more Republican in recent years,” the Times stated. That should “offer some comfort” to Trump’s lawyers, as should the fact that “many South Floridians, like Americans elsewhere in the country, believe that Mr. Trump is

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Young Irish Film Makers

A creative path to your future Young Irish Filmmakers are opening their studios for their CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTION Course on FRIDAY 30th JUNE from 11am - 1pm. Come along and explore this unique creative space with a professional podcast studio, live broadcast and computer suites. Meet the students and tutors, see the amazing work in action and chat about the possibilities of attending this course.

This practical course starts in September and is aimed at anyone interested in exploring a future in the creative industries.

Students work on projects including film, photography, graphic design, podcasting and much more as they build their skills and develop a portfolio. With a QQI level 5 award on completion, this course qualification can be used for college applications or entry into the creative sector.

Registrations are now open

for this in demand course at FETCHCOURSES.IE “This course is an excellent grounding in creative media production and an excellent progression route to higher levels of education”, says Gareth Hanlon the course Coordinator, “Last year 90% of our learners received their full level 5 QQI major award”.

The course is very practical from day one, with the first video creations happening in the first week. Drama,

comedy, music and podcasting workshops are peppered throughout the programme. Learners can also expect a number of road trips to exhibitions, film festivals and college open days.

The student centred team at YIFM work with each learner to define their personal projects, which will include video, audio, photography and design.

Where possible other students help you with

productions, photography and other creative services.

You feed into their portfolios and they into yours. It’s like a creative family scenario, “we even have a wellbeing officer on the team” to ensure learners have their best experience.

The Kilkenny City based course runs full time for 44 weeks and begins in September 2023. The course is a full time foundation in all things media. Every September, 20 creative

people aged 16+, sign up for 44 weeks of learning through practical creative projects involving community groups, local festivals and even working with local businesses to create social media content as part of their work experience module.

“With commitment learners will build a significant portfolio, and a solid foundation in the Adobe Creative Suite, including Premiere Pro,

Photoshop and InDesign”, explains Gareth. The feedback we get from our students is excellent, one student in particular, forwarded this message to the staff upon completion of the course “Thank you all so much guys the best year I’ve ever had”.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Explaining the entry requirements, Gareth states, “You must be over 16 yrs (and up to 35 yrs). It is usually Level 4 or equivalent to join us, however, the real requirement is a passion for creative media, film making, photography or graphic design.”

Also, there is generally payment for attending the course. You will need to be signed on to Intreo, on Disability payment or be an early school leaver to qualify. There is also assistance with travel costs where appropriate.

Places go fast, to be on the list, go to Fetchcourses.ie or visit YIFM.COM/ For further details about the course contact course coordinator Gareth Hanlon on gareth@yifm.com or call 05677 64677.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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New home By: Séan Hickey

Locals accompany swan family as they waddle their way from lake to river

The magnificent bird, the Swan, has captivated hearts and minds for generations and over thousands of years.

We are all familiar with the ancient Irish myth, ‘The Children of Lir,’ and Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Ugly duckling’. W.B. Yeats defines the Swan as ‘mysterious and beautiful’ in his poem, ‘the Wild Swans at Coole’. It is no wonder then that early on Saturday morning last week this elegant creature once more held a captive audience, this time however they have moved with the times and instead of being relegated to the annals have become a modern success by ‘gong viral’ on social media platforms.

The Mute Swan (Cygnus Olor) is known for making little noise. A certain pair and their offspring created quite the ruckus on the streets of Kilkenny. The couple have made their home on the pond in Lakeside on the Hebron Road for the last number of years, in what was once known as McEvoys field. In March every year they would begin to restore the mound of twigs, reeds and rushes that is their nest and, the Pen, as the female is known, would lay her eggs, and both herself and her long term partner the Cob, would take their turn as incubator.

Swans are monogamous creatures and although they may not sacramentally vow to live happily ever after, they usually mate for life and rear a clutch of cygnets every year.

At half eight on Saturday morning the mobile started to dance on the bedside locker.

I had hoped for a lie in, but Pat Durkan and the swans called, and awoke me from my slumber. At about seven in the Getting by with morning the pair of a little help from swans decided they my friends….

Having taken a needed a new home rest at the cinema, and off they took from locals gathered the Lakeside and made Swan family and for Ballybought Street transported them to accompanied by local new waters resident Mary Ann Vaughan. They ambled along in the middle of the road before being cajoled onto the footpath for safety and they courteously obeyed the rules of the road from that point on, availing of pedestrian crossings as they made their way toward the freshwater of the Nore. Many eyebrows were raised and many a passer-by had a double take as they couldn’t believe their eyes to see such an unusual sight.

Passing Donny Phelans, they moved a bit quicker for fear of losing a few feathers to the seat of a chair. On past the arch of the Barracks they were They proceeded to cross captured on camera with Pat the Castlecomer road and Carroll’s in the background. continued along Barrack One local wit proclaimed Street. They decided to rest that they were the most beauat the door of the cinema. I tiful birds to appear outside arrived about half past eight the pub in many a year. and then the fun really be-

ON A MISSION…Cob, Pen and six cygnets make their way down Barrack Street in search of the Nore ( Photo: Donny Phelan)

Unimpressed with the antics at the Skate Park, this family decide where their new abode is to be

Locals bid farewell to their feathered friends as the family of eight have arrived home, safe and sound

gan. Pat Durkan, the birdman of Kilkenny, decided they needed to be transported to the river. They were weary from their travels and access to the river at the Peace Park would be almost impossible.

Pat caught the male first and Gavin assisted in holding him still. Once Pat caught the Pen, I bundled the six cygnets into a box and placed it in the trailer. The Parents were happy enough to join their offspring and the remained calm in the trailer on the

journey to Greens Bridge.

I carried the cygnets in the box toward the river and the parents followed in quiet procession to the bank at the butt of the bridge. Once the water became visible through the Willows and Reeds, they all made a dart for the freshwater flapping their wings and dipping their heads as they paddled upstream in delight.

It was a joy to assist these magnificent birds on the journey to their new home and there was a sense of nostalgia as I remembered the many years that Elaine Bradshaw chaperoned the Swans and their young from Newpark Marsh to the same spot almost twenty-five years ago. Keep an eye out for them along Bishops Meadows and watch as the cygnets transform into beautiful white Swans.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

News

The Dame v. the President

The Waterford academic expert on terrorism at the centre of ‘neutrality row’ Dame Louise Mary Richardson DBE FRSE [pictured], born on June 8, 1958, is an Irish political scientist whose specialist field is the study of terrorism. In January 2023, she became president of the philanthropic foundation, Carnegie Corporation of New York. In January 2016, she became the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, having formerly served as the Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of St Andrews, and as the Executive Dean of the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study at Harvard University.

Her leadership at the University of Oxford played an important role in the successful development of a vaccine to combat Covid-19.

Richardson grew up in Tramore, Co Waterford, one of seven children of Arthur and Julie Richardson. After attend-

ing primary school at The Star of the Sea convent girls’ school in Tramore, she attended St Angela’s Secondary School, Ursuline Convent, Waterford.

In 1976, she received a Rotary Scholarship to study at the University of California for one year, then returned to Trinity College, Dublin to obtain a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1980.

As an undergraduate, Rich-

ardson was a student activist and chair of the campus Anti-Apartheid Society, which opposed the South African government’s racist policies.

After Trinity College, Dublin, Richardson took an MA degree in political science from UCLA in 1981, followed by a move to Harvard, where she received a Master of Arts in government in 1984 and a PhD in 1989 on how allies manage crises in which interests diverge, relating specifically to the Falklands War and Suez Crisis.

Based on her earlier involvement with the anti-apartheid movement, Richardson joined the supporters who travelled to Johannesburg in 1985 with the Dunnes Stores strikers — who had walked off the job after refusing to handle fruit from South Africa. Archbishop Desmond Tutu had invited

the group to see the living conditions under apartheid, but when they landed in the country, they were detained at the airport by armed security guards. The workers were denied entry, creating an international uproar, while Richardson and two researchers stayed on to conduct interviews on conditions.

From 1989 to 2001 Richardson served as an assistant professor and then an associate professor in the Department of Government at Harvard University.

Richardson’s academic focus has been on international security with an emphasis on terrorist movements. She taught Harvard’s large undergraduate lecture course, Terrorist Movements in International Relations, for which she won the Levenson Prize, awarded by the undergraduate student body

require components such as lithium, magnesium, copper and nickel – but we are importing the vast bulk of these.

WEEE Ireland now warns that we need to meet a forthcoming EU target to recycle at least 15% of our annual consumption of critical raw materials from this e-waste.

“Old and broken electronics and appliances are a rich source of essential critical raw materials, so it is vital that Kilkenny households recycle the millions of broken and perfectly recyclable electrical items that are accumulating in their

ued to teach, both at Harvard College and Harvard Law School, and to write extensively.

In 2006, Richardson authored her first of several books, the influential What Terrorists Want: Understanding the Enemy, Containing the Threat, about the Bush Administration’s counterterrorism policies. The New York Times called it “the overdue and essential primer on terrorism and how to tackle it”.

When Harvard’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences presented its Centennial Award for distinguished alumni to Richardson in 2013, the official citation noted her contributions to the field: “The lessons she began to teach us — before we knew how much we needed them — grow more relevant with each new incident of terror our world faces.”

Global dairy prices will not recover until autumn; and veg shortage looms

We recycle 897tn. of electrical waste!

An average of 8.6kg of e-waste was recycled for each person in Kilkenny last year, below the national average of 10kg per person according to new figures from WEEE Ireland.

A total 897 tonnes of electrical waste were collected in Kilkenny in 2022 by the country’s largest recycling scheme. However, WEEE Ireland said that we risk jeopardising green energy sources if we fail to improve our e-waste recycling and hit new EU targets for critical raw material recovery.

Electric vehicle batteries, wind turbines and solar power generators all

to the best teachers at the university. This class, along with a number of graduate courses on terrorist movements and European terrorism, were for many years the only courses offered on the subject at Harvard.

In addition to the Levenson Prize, Richardson has received teaching awards from the American Political Science Association and Pi Sigma Alpha for outstanding teaching in political science; the Abramson Award in recognition of her “excellence and sensitivity in teaching undergraduates” and many awards from the Bok Center for Teaching Excellence.

Richardson’s scholarly profile at Radcliffe increased after the September 11 attacks, and her expertise helped to shield Harvard from criticism about the paucity of its terrorism course offerings. She contin-

homes or being improperly disposed of,” said WEEE Ireland CEO, Leo Donovan [pictured].

“Recent global events and the energy crisis have underscored the vulnerabilities of relying on other countries for critical raw materials.

“The EU currently imports 93% of its magnesium and 86% of its rare earth metals from China. We need secure and sustainable sources of these materials within the EU or we risk jeopardising the supply of vital technologies required for our future green and digital transi-

tions,” Mr O’Donovan told The Kilkenny Observer.

“As the world embraces a more sustainable future and shifts away from fossil fuels, the demand for lithium alone, a vital component in batteries that power every day technology and devices, is projected to increase twelve-fold by 2030.

“To address these challenges, the EU aims to ensure that by 2030, at least 15% of the critical raw materials consumed annually originate from recycled sources under the forthcoming Critical Raw Materials Act,” he said.

While the main correction in milk prices across Europe has passed, it will be autumn before there is any uplift in global dairy prices, according to industry analysts.

The latest quarterly Rabobank report on the global dairy market says that in the months ahead, it expects “modest revisions” in pay-out prices by EU processors, but there are signs weakening dairy demand is “spreading across some markets”.

The EU dairy market, it says, is currently sending mixed signals and, while spot prices have started to strengthen, consumer demand remains lacklustre as food-price inflation is still hitting consumers, and market liquidity appears modest at best.

“As such, we expect a continuation of this fragile balance into the summer months, with prices past the bottom for 2023,” says the report.

Globally, it predicts that slower milk production growth could stabilise market prices. Its current outlook is for lower production in the EU and US, with limited growth elsewhere, which is likely to support global dairy prices in Q3 and into 2024.

China’s dairy demand recovery has not, it says, offset strong domestic milk production growth to date and that supply may take longer than previously forecast to respond to weakening milk prices and comparatively higher feed costs.

Dairy processors here have cut the base May milk price, citing inflation, rising interest rates and weakening global demand.

The move comes as Kerry group announced a cut of 1c/L to 37c/L (VAT inc) for May milk.

Lakeland, while holding its base milk price, discontinued the monthly Input Support Payment.

It said with economic volatility still a factor, there is generally weaker consumer sentiment in markets across the world.

Tirlán held its base milk price, but included a 3c/L support in that.

Meanwhile, there will be a shortage of Irish fruit and vegetables including cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, broccoli and sprouts for the rest of the year, growers and industry specialists have warned.

Heavy rains followed by the current drought is affecting the growth of fruit and vegetables, leaving most crops up to a month late, they said.

“There will be shortages because there are no longer enough growers in the country, coupled with the fact that the weather has been so unpredictable,” said Dublinbased agronomist Richard Hackett.

While all field vegetables would be affected, cabbage, cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, broccoli and sprouts would face the biggest challenge.

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Learn the practices of self-care before you need them EOIN EVERARD

In this Feature, you can see we are talking about all things Wellbeing. This article is on mindset. Even if you think you don’t need these things now, learning to incorporate some good habits that can help your physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing can be brilliant before you need it.

There is a saying ‘dig the well before you're thirsty’.

Don’t wait for pain or stress to strike before you start.

Let's talk about how we can take this proactive approach with exercise, pain, injury and psychological stress and address these things before they become an issue. With that being said, here are a few things I would recommend to start doing even before you need them.

Key Things to Practice: 1. Exercise: Start walking or exercising. At this stage it doesn’t really matter the amount or what you are doing. A recent study reported asking people to put on runners and stand on a treadmill for one minute. After 4 weeks the average time spent on

the treadmill was 35 minutes.

This was the fact that they were never told how far to go.

Starting is the hardest part. Just doing any type of exercise will start your momentum. Don’t wait until a doctor tells you that you have some condition that exercise will help with. Start before it is necessary. You won’t regret it.

If you do regularly exercise but are in a rut, then join a club or sign up for a race or event of some kind to help motivate you.

2. Pain and Injury: There are two things here I would recommend. The first is to get a foam roller and hockey ball.

Go on YouTube and look up videos on how to keep your joints and muscles supple and healthy. Reducing knots in your muscles can really help you avoid injury.

Second, doing Pilates or Yoga to stay supple and flexible. Improving the strength and mobility of these possible weak link areas before there are problems can help you get stronger and healthier for years to come.

3. Meditation for Psychological Stress: I am a big believer in meditation. In a fast-paced and often chaotic world, finding and learning to meditate can be a great

related issues, such as insomnia or restless nights.

Regular meditation practice can promote better sleep by calming the mind, reducing racing thoughts, and inducing a state of deep relaxation.

By incorporating meditation into your bedtime routine, you create an opportunity to unwind, let go of the day's stressors, and prepare both your mind and body for a restful night's sleep.

skill to learn. Meditation has a lot of proven benefits such as: • Reducing Stress and Anxiety - one of the most known benefits of meditation is its ability to relieve stress and anxiety. By quieting the mind and focusing on the present moment, meditation helps to calm the nervous system, reduce the production of stress hormones, and induce a state of relaxation. Regular practice can significantly reduce the impact of stress on our daily lives, fostering a sense of inner peace and emotional resilience.

• Enhancing Mental Clarity and Focus - in a world filled with distractions, maintaining mental clarity and focus is essential for productivity and overall wellbeing. Meditation cultivates a heightened sense of awareness and concentration, allowing us to anchor our attention on the present moment. As a result, we become better equipped to navigate the challenges of daily life, make clearer decisions, and stay fully engaged in whatever task or activity we undertake.

powerful tool for emotional wellbeing, helping us to cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional balance. Through meditation, we develop the ability to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, allowing us to respond to challenging situations with more compassion and equanimity. This practice enhances our capacity to manage negative emotions, cultivate positive ones, and foster healthier relationships with ourselves and others.

• Promoting Emotional Wellbeing - meditation is a

• Improved Sleep - many people struggle with sleep-

• Boosting Physical Health - beyond its mental and emotional benefits, meditation has been linked to numerous physical health benefits. Research suggests that regular meditation practice can lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, improve cardiovascular health, and reduce inflammation. By cultivating a state of inner calm and relaxation, meditation supports the body's natural healing processes, leading to improved overall health and well-being.

I use the 10-minute meditation by Calm on YouTube but simply closing your eyes, breathing through your nose and focusing on the breath going in and out can be a really good start. Try this for 10 minutes. Having this skill can really help when things get stressful.

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Natural remedies and treatments in Kilkenny Jason Walsh is a licensed Acupuncturist and Naturopath who has received his diploma in Traditional Chinese Acupuncture and Naturopathy in 2012 from the College of Naturopathic Medicine.

Acupuncture is a gentle medical system that is used to diagnose and treat illnesses, prevent disease and improve overall wellbeing. It originated in China more than 3000 years ago and as the years go on, it is becoming increasingly popular and widespread across mainstream medicine.

Acupuncture is fast becoming the number one choice of alternative medicine for treating a wide range of conditions and ailments. Here are just some of the common conditions that can be treated with acupuncture: 1. Arthritis 2. Asthma 3. Allergies 4. Back pain/sciatica 5. Headaches/migraines 6. Digestive issues 7. Fibromyalgia 8. Skin conditions 9. Depression/Anxiety and stress Acupuncture can be used alone or can be combined with Western medicine or other

forms of traditional Chinese medicine such as Chinese massage, Chinese cupping, electro stimulation and neuromuscular acupuncture.

Jason also provides Food Sensitivity Testing. Food sensitivities can and do cause many health problems in everyday life. Having a healthy diet doesn't mean it's the right diet

for your body. With a simple finger prick test you can find out which ones you should be avoiding. As long as you continue to include those foods in your diet, your symptoms will remain. Find out which foods you are intolerant to and get back to feeling like yourself.

Contact Jason on 086 314 6339 to make an appointment.

Healthy skin from the inside out How can you have healthy glowing skin so you can look and feel your best? Working from the inside out will help you achieve your goals. What you eat, drink, or put on your skin, plus lifestyle habits will all impact on how healthy your skin is. Supplements will take a little bit of time to work, but I think you will be happy you persisted. Top supplements for skin would include collagen, vitamin C, omega oils, B vitamins, and zinc.

Cleanmarine for Women is an ideal supplement for women age 15-40 as it provides omega oils from Krill, b vitamins including B6 for the regulation of hormonal activity, vitamin B2 for normal skin, and soy isoflavones.

Cleanmarine for Men is perfect for men of all ages to support healthy glowing skin and hair health. It contains Omega oils from Krill, zinc for healthy testosterone levels and b vitamins for healthy skin and hair.

If you are vegetarian or vegan Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend is a lovely oil to take for a seed based source of Omega 3,6 and 9.

Collagen is important for skin health, 75% of the skin is made up of collagen and this declines as we age. New Nordic Collagen Shot is a premium liquid marine col-

lagen sachet, pre-mixed and easy to take with a delicious natural berry flavour. Collagen helps improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Top foods for healthy skin include water, lemon in water, beetroot juice, rooibos tea, brightly coloured fruit and veg, green leafy vegetables, avocado, oily fish, walnuts, chia, flax,sunflower and pumpkin seeds, goji berries, acai or moringa powder.

Foods to support gut healthkimchi, natural yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.

Things that cause problems for your skin include: Lack of sleep, stress, dehydration, sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods. Smoking, and skin care products that could have nasty ingredients

may cause toxic build up on the skin contributing to wrinkles and dull looking skin. Hormonal imbalance, constipation, and digestive problems can cause havoc on your skin.

Supplements to help protect your skin from sun damage include beta carotene and astaxanthin. Always use alongside natural organic sunscreen like Green People.

Skin brushing, or body scrubs to exfoliate dead skin cells is a brilliant way to brighten your skin Hope your skin glows this summer.

Keep up to date with the newest style and trends on their Facebook and Instagram pages. Pay a visit to Elita Hair Salon, or call 085 781 2981.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Kilkenny College opens new innovative beauty clinic Kilkenny College of Beauty and Sports Therapy has been at the heart of The South East's Beauty Therapy Training since 1986. Based in the centre of Kilkenny City, the college has gone from strength to strength with the introduction of Sports Therapy and Holistic Courses.

The College is an elite Education provider with accreditations from ITEC, CIBTAC, CIDESCO and ABT. The College recently opened its first ever clinic, open to the public, at No.4 Patrick Street. The clinic is run by experienced staff members and offers a vast array of treatments. The clinic offers a variety of treatments from waxing, lash lifts, manicures, microneedling to laser, facials and brow treatments. They have also developed a partner-

ship with Newderm clinic, where doctors visit regularly for Botox, dermal fillers and many other treatments.

This month, the clinic is offering a course of Cliniccare chemical peels for €220 which is a massive saving and superb offer on a cosmeceutical brand treatment. Cliniccare is renowned for its youth and deep hydration without the needle. The clinic is excited to provide Cliniccare treatments and homecare products to give clients a targeted approach to their skincare regime whether it’s to fight ageing, breakouts or pigmentation. The clinic also stocks Dermalogica, Irish brand Skinician, Blank Canvas and Rebulena, all available on our website www.kilkennycbt. com.

Courses have expanded

kilkennyobserver.ie

rapidly at the college and now include everything from dermaplaning, microneedling, gel nails, make up, lash extensions and brow master classes, to Sports Therapy and holistic courses. Courses range from €60.

Kilkenny College of Beauty and Sports Therapy pride themselves in their personal, flexible and high standards of Education. All of the staff are highly trained with qualifications from a Diploma to Masters level. The development of their online learning portal at www.beautytherapycourses.ie gives their students far more flexibility than ever before with immediate access to courses and excellent resources for learning and substituting lessons students may be unable to attend.

Graduates of the college are sought after with employers seeking graduates even before graduation. We are currently enrolling for summer courses and the 2023 academic year.

The College needs you as they currently can’t meet the massive demand from employers for their graduates.

To book into our clinic you can make an appointment with Lynn using the Fresha QR code on our ad or call 0567761891. To enquire about available courses contact info@ kilkennycbt.com or call us.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Charity L- R: John Keane, KCLR, Edelle Monahan, Jack and Jill, Deirdre Walsh, Jack and Jill, Barry Dempsey, Manager of Jack and Jill, Friary Street, Kilkenny with Glenveagh Homes Staff

! d e r i H You’re Glenveagh Staff raise €10,632 to help support local Jack and Jill families during an Apprentice-Style Takeover of the Jack and Jill Charity Boutique on Friary Street, Kilkenny On Friday, 16th June, three teams of Glenveagh staff took over three Jack and Jill charity boutiques, including the much-loved shop on Friary Street, in an ApprenticeStyle takeover that saw the Kilkenny team triumph by raising the most funds on the day.

Savvy shoppers in search of fashionable bargains turned out in force, while the team of volunteers from Glenveagh Homes, who are charity partners to Jack and Jill, pulled out all the stops to create a fun and welcoming atmosphere, and inspire sales.

From pre-loved designer goods to household gems and collectables, energetic support from KCLR FM’s John Keane and a visit from Kilkenny hurler Cian Kenny, who brought along the Bob O’Keeffe Cup; it was a landmark day for the Jack and Jill charity boutique in Kilkenny, which saw the amount of funds raised multiply by eight times versus a ‘regular’ Friday.

Deirdre Walsh, Head of Retail from Jack and Jill said, “It was such a fantastic success! The buzz, energy and excitement the team brought to our Kilkenny store

Glenn Burrell, Sales Manager, Glenveagh Homes

Anne, volunteer at Jack and Jill, Friary Street with Glenveagh Homes Staff

Vital funds raised equate to 591 hours of in-home nursing care

Monica, a happy shopper at Jack and Jills, Friary Street, Kilkenny

Some of the range of clothing items available at Jack and Jill, Friary Street, Kilkenny

was palpable! Huge thanks to Glenveagh for pulling out the stops with this takeover, which saw funds raised soar across all three of the stores involved, funding 591 hours of in-home nursing care and respite support for our families. A fabulous achievement!”

Glen Burrell, Sales Manager with Glenveagh Homes, commented, “The whole team at Glenveagh are delighted with how the takeover went and are proud of the funds we raised to support local Jack and Jill families. As we prepare to launch our newest development at Cluain Glasan, we wanted to illustrate our commitment to the community in Kilkenny and the surrounding areas, and it was a wonderful way to meet Jack and Jill shoppers and supporters, while giving back. A win:win for all involved!”

The Jack and Jill charity boutique is located at Friary Street Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 DC99 and is open Monday to Saturday from 10am-5.30pm.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Recruitment

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Butler Gallery

Twenty eight acres exhib Photos : Pat Shortall

On Saturday June 10, the exhibition ‘Twenty-Eight Acres’, an exhibition of new works on paper by Kilkenny-based visual artist Eamon Colman, opened at Kilkenny’s magnificent Butler Gallery.

Colman has spent many years walking the length and breadth of the Twenty-Eight Acres, a site located along the Castlecomer Plateaux in north County Kilkenny where mining began in the mid-17th Century with the extraction of iron ore. In later years, coal deposits were found beneath the shale and these were to form the basis of the coal mining industry in the area which lasted for over 300 years. The Twenty-Eight Acres site was used as a slag heap for spoils from the coal mines but has, over time, transformed itself into a meadow that is infused with wildflowers such as Irish orchids.

Colman’s extensive walks include note-taking that informs his practice when he returns to the studio.

He describes himself as a landscape painter but does not represent what he sees, rather he presents what he feels within the landscape. That said, the intricate shapes of manmade and natural objects find their way into the composition of

Pat Fennessy, Kilkenny, Reuben Ramirez, USA/Kilkenny; Lamber de Bie, NL/Kilkenny; Felix Sheridan, Kilkenny

Mary Hilda Kavanagh in conversation with Bishop Wilkinson Eadaoin Glynn, Catherine Callery, Helen Callery, Inge Elsman-Loeffen, Pauline O’Connell ( jbs photos)

Jamie Connery, Bespoke & Co., Kilkenny; Pauline O’Connell, artist, Kilkenny; Eamon Colman, artist, Dublin/Kilkenny; Anna O’Sullivan, Director Butler Gallery; Kevin Hughes, film-maker, Kilkenny, producer of “A Man-A Place’ about the artist and his inspiration playing every day in the Butler Gallery - Digital Gallery

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Butler Gallery

ition at the Butler Gallery these paintings. Sustainable living is extremely important to Colman who is a proponent of rewilding gardens, starting with his own garden—a magical place in the Kilkenny upland countryside—where he has planted many indigenous trees.

Colman begins by making his own paint using raw organic pigment. Then much time goes into the making of his handmade Momigami paper which is a ‘kneaded paper’ in Japanese. The paper is built up layer upon layer with other materials, such as medical gauze, and then sanded to ‘within an inch of its life’ creating a porous surface.

Colman uses paper as a way

of sharing the fragility of the landscape (and of himself), revealing its holes and jagged edges. The palette employed is rich with pinks, lemons, purples and blues with inky blacks largely used for strong graphic mark-making. Colman admits to being a born romantic, wanting his paintings to have beauty, but also admitting that “all beauty is damaged in some way”. The tension between Culture and Nature lies at the heart of the work.

Colman’s titles reveal each painting’s own individual story. Echoes from Time, is an outstanding example of a painting that has been worked on for over five years and has

the bearing of a life lived.

Most of these works are selfcontained diptychs presented in clear Acrylic boxes that allow us to fully appreciate the bold juxtapositions of colour, shape, texture and edges of these striking new works on paper.

Eamon Colman was born in Dublin in 1957 and has lived and worked in County Kilkenny since 2003. He is an elected member of Aosdána since 2007 in recognition of his major contribution to Irish culture.

His professional career spans from 1979, having created fortyfour solo exhibitions presented nationally and internationally.

In 1997, he was invited to host a major mid-term retrospective

Pat Fennessy, Kilkenny, Lamber de Bie, NL/Kilkenny; Felix Sheridan, Kilkenny, Reuben Ramirez, USA/Kilkenny

Echo from time’: Eamon Colman in his studio) Mixed media on paper

Eamon Colman - artist and Anna O’Sullivan, Director of Butler Gallery

Pauline O’Connell and Eamon Colman at the opening of Eamons exhibition at the Butler Gallery. ( jbs photos)

Blaise Smith, RHA, Dublin/ Kilkenny

Elaine and Owen Sealy, Dublin, Eamon Colman, Dublin/Kilkenny

exhibition of his work entitled ‘Post Cards Home’ at the Royal Hibernian Academy, Dublin at the age of 39 years.

Colman’s work is represented in many major public collections including The National Gallery of Ireland; The Arts Council of Ireland; The Danish Arts Council; The Office of Public Works - Government Collection; The Irish Museum of Modern Art (Gordon Lambert Collection); Tralee Regional Technical College; Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast; AIB Bank; Bank of Ireland; Ulster Bank; KPMG; Smurfit Ireland Grp.; Citibank; Deutsche Bank; Arthur Anderson; Fyffes

Ireland; Delta Airlines; De Vere’s private collection and various private collections worldwide.

Open to the public every day except Mondays, the exhibition is on until 23rd July 2023. Free entry. There is an artist talk on Saturday 1st July - free, but booking required through www.butlergallery.ie To coincide with the exhibition there is a new film on show about the artist, places that inspire him and his process

by Kilkenny filmmaker Kevin Hughes entitled Eamon Colman, A Man-A Place.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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News News

A great turnout for the official opening of the new Slieverue Linear Park!

On Wednesday the 14th of June, in front of a big crowd, including many excited local school children, the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick officially opened Slieverue Linear Park. This new amenity space, located at the northern end of the village, was delivered under two phases.

Under Phase One works commenced back in 2021 having secured funding under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme whilst Phase Two commenced late last year and was completed recently.

Speaking at the event, the Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick noted “The Elected Members of Kilkenny County Council, recognising the importance of outdoor recreational opportunities

for communities, in terms of physical health and mental wellbeing, were fully supportive of the Slieverue Community Resource Centre Committee when approached to deliver Phase 2, the final stage, of this project. So, when the opportunity arose to work with Kilkenny LEADER Partnership and the local community, to advance this project, the Council were more than happy to do so”. Adding that “projects like this show what can be delivered when there is a real desire and a collaborative approach taken by key stakeholders to deliver for communities” and he complemented all involved.

The new Park has been designed to promote an open space where both people and biodiversity can flourish. It includes a central pathway that

forms part of a wider walking route within the village, natural woodland play and exercise equipment, seating areas, an outdoor class room with blackboard and basketball area.

Surrounding these features the Park evolves into a more natural setting with a strong focus of native biodiversity planting and wildflower meadows.

Frank Stafford, A / Senior Engineer, from the Project Office and Parks Section of Kilkenny County Council acknowledged the high-quality design and work undertaken by Council staff and Contractors and the positive contribution

of the local Elected Members, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership and the Slieverue Community Resource Centre Committee in making this project a reality.

Noting on the day that he hoped that the opening of this new amenity will bring much joy to the families of Slieverue and the surrounding areas for many years to come.

Also speaking on the day, local Resident, Cllr. Ger Frisby, Chairperson of the Piltown Municipal District, noted “It has been a long term objective of mine to deliver an amenity space, like this Park, for the people of Slieverue village

and I’m delighted that this day has come.” He acknowledged the work of the various stakeholders and thanked the nearby residents for their input into the design process of the park. He also acknowledged a number of local businesses who contributed towards the required local match funding collected by the Slieverue Community Resource Centre.

He noted “the importance of amenity and outdoor spaces such as this cannot be underestimated and I’m delighted to see so many school children in attendance” noting that they now have a safe place

to meet, play and engage with nature.

This completed Park sees a combined investment of over €250,000 into Slieverue Village, made up of combination of funding streams including the Town & Village Renewal Scheme, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership under the LEADER Programme, the Council’s own funds and local funds collected by the Slieverue Community Resource Centre.

Declan Rice, CEO, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership, speaking on day, expressed his delight to see the quality of the end product and noted what can be achieved for the benefit of communities when there is real collaboration between stakeholders and strong leadership at community level.

He acknowledged the support of his Board and Evaluation Committee for projects like this, this makes a real difference to the lives of people, and he complimented all those involved.

Seamus Murtagh, from Sliverue Community Resource Centre also spoke on the day and expressed his thanks to Council staff, Elected Members and his own committee members for all the work involved in delivering this project and noted what can be achieved when there is the will and desire at a local level.

Before the ribbon was cut by the Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Pat Fitzpatrick, the new amenity was blessed by Parish Priest. Fr. Kieran O’Shea.

Two new books from Kilkenny authors

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Druids were once hailed as the great teachers and priests of ancient Ireland, claiming to have magical powers and to be in contact with the spirit world.

They highlighted the primacy of nature in all our human dealings long before the advent of the modern Green movement.

Druids feature prominently in many of the old legends about Deidre of the Sorrows and Finn MacComhall that, until the advent of TV and radio, were recited nationwide by mistyeyed story tellers around big open fires.

Kilkenny man Michael McGrath has written a compelling book on the subject of these men who ruled the religious roost for centuries, before Christianity swept them aside.

The Wisdom of the Irish Druids traces the origin and development of Druidism through the ages and, intriguingly, the author considers himself a latter-day Druid. He has participated in rituals on the hallowed Hill of Tara, having donned a specially embroidered costume in honour of his free-spirited pre-Christian ancestors.

Of special interest to locals will

be a chapter dealing with the Cover design of Michael arrival of druidic refugees at the McGraths book present -day site of St Canice’s Cathedral and round tower, after they were chased out of Tara and their other power bases by the triumphant Christians.

Canice himself, after whom Kilkenny is named, led a special military operation to rout Jim Murray the fleeing Druids from the City and its hinterland. They fled in disarray across the Nore, with the Onward Christian Soldiers in hot pursuit.

Michael took a break from his beloved photography and occasional forays into local and national politics to write the book.

For the past thirty years he has considered himself a Druid, associating with like-minded folk who revere the ancient way of life. In 1993 he was elected Arch druid on the Hill of Tara and received TV coverage for his activities.

He was active in opposition to the building of the M3 Motorway through Tara Valley, where he rubbed shoulders with all thinks of today’s Druidism as the eco-warriors of the time a philosophy rather than a who sought to save the ancient religion. site from what they perceived Despite being a commitbe a form of desecration. He

doubting the magic of his prose.

Whether one agrees with the author’s political and ideological analyses, one cannot but be enthralled by the sheer breadth and ambition of his literary project, his quirky turns of phrase, and how he manages to re-connect with a past that’s beyond recall.

The books pays lavish homage to “the way we were” before Christianity took over, and it shines a light on a neglected and largely forgotten aspect of our heritage.

The book is available in Kilkenny bookshops. Price: 12.99 Euro.

Another Kilkenny man has written a very different kind of book. Jim Murray’s Orchestra of Poems has a lovely compilation Jim Murrays new book

ted Druid, Michael has yet to acquire supernatural powers, as his mystical ancestors allegedly did, but there can be no

of his work spanning decades.

Jim has battled bravely against a severe mental illness, refusing to let it crush his creative spirit.

Writing has served as a therapy that proved as efficacious as any medication, in helping him keeping on top of the ailments that befell him.

Apart from its therapeutic value, his writing is worthy of celebration for its insights into his decades-long struggle against an invisible assailant. It has helped him to reclaim his birthright to a fulfilling life.

Jim likens his battle to a physical one in a war zone, where one doesn’t know when the next shell will explode or what direction it might be coming from. “Pen and ink are my weapons”, he says.

Jim always finds a fitting epigram to ward off adversity or quell the blues.

The poems and prose in the book deal with every conceivable human experience, inspired by Jim’s interaction with nature, the medical profession, the spheres of literature and folklore, and the supernatural.

I like his anti-suicide poem, for its honesty and grit in addressing this perennial human tragedy, and his humorous follow-up to Flann O’ Brien’s poem “The Workman’ Friend.”

Orchestral of Poems will be available in the near future at Kilkenny outlets.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Failte Isteach Awards There was a gathering from across the globe at City Hall recently as a diverse range of cultures from Africa, Asia, South America and Europe came together for the annual Failte Isteach end of term Awards. Over 100 participants went through the project during the past year, with over 70 eligible for Award Certificates. . The event was hosted

by Mayor David Fitzgerald and was the culmination of a year learning English by all the attendees.

There was a buzz about the place on Wednesday morning as this was the first Failte Isteach face to face awards in City Hall since Covid restrictions, when the service went online. Everyone had a different story to tell but all agreed that faced with the challenges of adapting to a new culture, life was made a lot easier by speaking and understanding the common language of the country Coordinator Theresa Delahunty said: “as we come to the end of another successful year, where over 100 participants went through the Failte Isteach English and Integration Programme, we are delighted with the positive feed-back we have received from our students. We know that the inability to communicate in the common language is one of the main barriers to participation in the lived life of the community.

Our Failte Isteach Model was established to bridge that gap, by providing the opportunity to learn English and a place to practice, in a safe and supportive environment.

Being able to converse in English helps newcomers to get to know their neighbours and be part of the community”.

The learners highly value the opportunity they are afforded to learn the language, they know that not having the language contributes to their detachment from many aspects of community life. The Fr. McGrath Centre is acutely aware of the importance of reaching out to our new communities and valuing their uniqueness and diversity, while at the same time promoting

Cultures converge for the Failte Isteach Awards at City Hall inclusiveness within the local community. The Project in addition to providing conversation English also links participants to a range of social, community and educational activities The Failte Isteach Awards were not just for the students, as sixteen tutors who volunteer their time

each week were also presented with certificates in recognition of their sterling work and commitment to the project. The awards to them were a well-deserved recognition of the hours they dedicate to teaching the language and their contribution to building stronger and more integrated communities, Theresa Delahunty & Mayor Fitzgerald

Mayor David Fitzgerald & Immigrant Support Officer Samauel Morgan pictured at City Hall for the presentation of certificates

Tutors Polly Minett, Margaret Birnie and students

thus, making a lasting difference to community cohesion.

Also recognised for their work were the team running the project, Theresa Delahunty Coordinator, Samuel Morgan Immigrant Support Officer, Margaret Birnie Tutor Team leader, and support workers Elina Tkachenko and Oksana

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Failte Isteach Awards

Tutors Soibhan Maher, Kevin Brogan & Brigitte Weissoertel

Ryaboshapka.

Immigrant Services has run the Failte Isteach Project and Support Services for Immigrants for twelve years. It is funded through SICAP

by Kilkenny Leader Partnership and further resourced by St.Canice’s Community Action Network.

The next term begins on 20th September 2023. New Tutors are always welcome.

Further details can be obtained by phoning: The Fr. McGrath Centre 0567751988 or Immigrant Services Mobile 0861927033 or 0861966073

Tutors Margaret Birnie, Elina Tkachenko, Okana Ryaboshapka and participants

Tutors join with Mayor David Fitzgerald to celebrate the presentation of certificates

Group Students, Tutors & Mayor David Fitzgerald

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Paillard of chicken with lemon and herbs

Prep: 15 mins Cook: 5 mins plus 2 hrs marinating Serves: 6

Pounding meat until thin and flat is a great technique for barbecued chicken breast, as it ensures it won’t dry out. Try this version with lemon and herbs.

Mojito pitcher

Ingredients For the burger • 6 skinless chicken breasts • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1⁄2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 140g bag rocket • 25g parmesan • lemon wedges

Prep time: 5 min Serves: 6 Ingredients • 6 limes, plus 1 lime sliced, to serve • 4 tbsp granulated sugar • 4-5 mint sprigs • ice • 350ml white rum • 600ml sparking water

For the marinade • 2 garlic cloves • 3 rosemary sprigs, leaves finely chopped • 6 sage leaves, finely shredded • zest 1 lemon and juice of ½ • 3 tbsp olive oil Method STEP 1 Place each chicken breast between 2 sheets of cling film or baking parchment. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to bash each piece of chicken – flatten out to an even layer about 0.5cm thick.

Transfer to a dish.

STEP 2 To make the marinade, crush the garlic with a good pinch of salt

Method STEP 1 Chop each lime into six pieces and drop them into a two-litre jug. Add the sugar and squish the lime wedges with a muddler, or the end of a rolling pin. Keep crushing to get out all the juices. using a pestle and mortar. Add the rosemary and sage, and give everything a good pounding. Stir through the lemon zest and juice, olive oil and some ground black pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that it’s well coated. Cover and chill for at least 2 hrs.

STEP 3 Heat the barbecue. Once the flames have died down, spread the coals out to an even layer. Cook the chicken for 1-2 mins each side.

Transfer to a board and leave to rest for a few mins.

ingredients in a bowl. Lay the steaks in a shallow dish or tray, then pour over the marinade. Turn to coat the steaks all over in the mix, then allow to stand for at least 1 hr, or cover and chill for up to 24 hrs.

Barbecued fajita steak Prep: 5 mins Cook: 8 mins Plus marinating and resting Serves: 4

STEP 2 Heat the barbecue. When it is hot, wipe any excess marinade from the steaks, then cook for 3 mins on each side for mediumrare or longer if you prefer it more cooked. Allow the steak to rest for 5 mins, then cut into thick slices.

If you have time the day before, marinate the meat overnight, then, when you’re ready, light the barbie and get cooking...

Ingredients • 4 beef steaks, preferably ribeye, approx 250g/9oz each • 8 flour tortillas, plus all the side dishes, to serve • 150ml pot soured cream (optional) For the marinade • juice 6 limes • 2 tbsp olive oil • 4 garlic cloves, crushed • 2 tsp dried oregano • 4 tsp ground cumin • 2 tsp freshly ground black

STEP 4 Meanwhile, pour the oil and balsamic vinegar into a large bowl. Add the rocket and some seasoning. Toss together, then shave over the Parmesan. Serve the salad with the chicken, with lemon wedges to squeeze over.

pepper • small bunch coriander, finely chopped

Method STEP 1 Mix all the marinade

STEP 3 To assemble the fajitas, warm 8 large flour tortillas on the barbecue. Spread with mashed black beans, then pile slices of steak, some onions & peppers, pico de gallo, guacamole and some soured cream if you like.

Roll up and enjoy with a glass of Michelada!

STEP 2 Pick the leaves off a mint spring and lay them on one of your hands. Clap the other hand on top to bruise the leaves ever so gently, then drop them into the jug. Repeat with the rest of the mint spring.

STEP 3 Fill up the jug about three-quarters full with ice, then add the rum. Stir with a long-handled spoon to mix all the ingredients together gently and top up with the sparkling water. Stir once more, then serve poured into tall glasses with a few extra ice cubes and lime slices.

Try these 3 twists Strawberry mojito Muddle 9-10 strawberries, 2 chopped limes and 2 tbsp granulated sugar in a large jug.

Bruise the leaves from 2 mint sprigs and add to the jug with a pinch of black pepper. Add lots of ice and stir in 350ml white rum and 600ml sparkling water.

Blueberry mojito Put 100g blueberries, 3 chopped lemons and 2 tbsp granulated sugar in a jug and muddle.

Bruise the leaves from 2 mint sprigs and add them to the jug with lots of ice. Pour over 350ml white rum and 600ml sparkling water and stir together.

Mango & pineapple mojito Tip 50g pineapple pieces, 50g chopped mango, 3 chopped limes and 2 tbsp light brown sugar into a large jug and muddle together. Bruise and add the leaves from 2 mint sprigs, then top with ice. Stir in 150ml white rum, 200ml pineapple rum and 600ml sparkling water.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

The ‘awkward’ Jennifer Aniston comedy topping Netflix chart If your brain cannot compute dark and dystopian tales on the weekends, then may we interest you in a mindless comedy starring Jennifer Aniston instead? Aniston followed up her raunchy turn in Horrible Bosses by playing a stripper in We’re The Millers, the caper currently sitting at the sixth spot on Netflix’s global Top 10.

We’re The Millers stars Jason Sudeikis in his preTed Lasso, dirtbag comedian era. He plays smalltime drug dealer David Clark. In an attempt to smuggle a massive shipment of marijuana across the Mexican border, he devises a plan to pose as a picture-perfect family on vacation. He recruits a group of misfits, including a stripper named Rose (played by Aniston), a nerdy teenager named Kenny (Will Poulter), and a runaway girl named Casey (Emma Roberts), to form his makeshift family.

The 2013 Rawson Marshall Thurber film hap-

pens to have a weird striptease sequence, featuring prim and proper Rachel

Greene from Friends, that might either titillate or make you cringe hard.

Speaking of the pole dance sequence, Aniston had mentioned to Collider how it was a challenging scene for her to shoot, “I just had to do it. We rolled the cameras and I had to just bite the bullet. It was a little uncomfortable at first because doing all the rehearsals alone with Denise, and then all of a sudden you’re on the set with three cameras and a bunch of crew. It was a little intimidating at first.”

The cast found the threeway kissing scene between Aniston, Poulter, and Roberts just as awkward to film. Poulter said: “It was kind of a bizarre scene to film, we kind of just laughed our way through it. It was a very awkward day for all involved.”

Aniston echoed the sentiment by saying: “It was extremely awkward.”

However, as per Thurber, it was Aniston’s idea to make Rose join in along with Casey and Kenny.

“I think it was Jen who thought it would be funny if Rose joined in, which made all the difference in the sequence.”

The humour in We’re The Millers is often crude, but the film also features two iconic comedy quips that have found their way into pop culture lexicon now: the ‘No Ragrets’ tattoo and the ‘Wait, you guys are getting paid’ moment that has become a meme loved by every unpaid intern around the world.

The film also stars Ed Helms as a drug lord, Nick Offerman as a US Drug Enforcement agent who is married to Katheryn Hahn’s character, Luis Guzmán as a sleazy Mexican cop, Ken Marino as another sleazy character who owns a strip club, and Molly Quinn who plays the naive daughter of Offerman and Hahn’s characters.

Sun goes down on royals’ Netflix deal Netflix bosses are unlikely to renew Harry & Meghan’s £81 million deal as “the lemon has been fully squeezed”.

Their tell-all six-parter Harry & Meghan was the most-watched subscription TV show of 2022, but there are no plans for a follow-up series with Netflix saying they are reluctant to renew the Sussexes’ mega-bucks streaming contract.

The Sun On Sunday newspaper understands Harry and Meghan are prepared to see out their contract with Netflix The Sun revealed Meghan has lost her £18 million deal with Spotify after one podcast series in 27 months — with the couple branded “f***ing grifters” by one executive.

The reputed £81 million Netflix deal, believed to be paid in instalments, was announced in 2020.

But bosses are said to now feel Meghan “lives in her own bubble” and does not seem to have “grasped the economic reality”.

A source added: “There is

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a less friendly attitude from some at the top. The feeling is that the lemon has been fully squeezed.

“The big bucks Harry and Meghan signed on for do not exist today.” The Sun on Sunday understands the Sussexes are prepared to see out their contractual obligations

with the Netflix streamer.

Harry will feature in an Invictus Games series, with screening planned later this summer.

Meghan is said to be in talks with other firms after Archetypes was pulled “by mutual agreement”.

Bill Simmons, Head of Podcast Innovation at Spotify, said in his own podcast on Friday: “The f***ing grifters.

That’s the podcast we should have launched with them.

“I’ve got to get drunk one night and tell the story of the Zoom I had with Harry to try to help him with a podcast idea. It’s one of my best stories.”

The Sun also told how Harry’s court fight over UK police protection will cost taxpayers £1m.

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new ones to stream on Netflix 1. Take Care Of Maya

Take Care Of Maya, a documentary that will probably go down as one of the most shocking and talked-about of the year.

When 10-year-old Maya Kowalski was admitted to Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in 2016, nothing could have prepared her or her family for what they were about to go through. As the medical team tried to understand her rare illness, they began to question the basic truths that bound the Kowalskis together. Suddenly, Maya was in state custody — despite two parents who were desperate to bring their daughter home.

Without giving too much away, listening to the Kowalski family tell their story in their own words might just change the way you look at children’s healthcare forever.

2. King the Land

The 16-episode King the Land is a swoon-worthy romantic comedy in which the heir to a luxury hotel conglomerate meets a young woman who’s a hotelier — and who’s known for her million-dollar smile, which the rich heir can’t stand. The hotelier, by the way, is Yoona, a former of the K-pop group Girl’s Generation who very much does have a million-dollar smile.

3. See You In My 19th Life

Just when I think Netflix K-drama releases have squeezed all of the creativity they can out of romantic storylines, along comes something fresh and original.

As far as the plot goes, a young girl who can reincarnate has the ability to remember all of her past lives. An accident kills her as she’s on life #18, and when she gets started on her 19th life, she decides to reconnect with the young man she fell in love with during her prior life. The young man, though, still pines for the girl he remembers and lost — not the reincarnated version in an all-new body today.

4. Break Point — Part 2

From the team that also brought us F1: Drive to Survive, Break Point follows a group of some of the best tennis players both on and off the court as they compete in Grand Slams and tournaments all over the world. Some of them are tennis legends approaching the twilight of their careers, while others are part of a new generation eager to claim the spotlight. Break Point follows these players over the course of a year, and includes everything from devastating heartbreak to triumphant victories.

5. King Of Clones

King Of Clones tells the story of the most notorious scientist from South Korea, charting his path from a groundbreaking human cloning researcher to his ultimate downfall. Working with a colleague, the pair announced jointly in 2004 the successful cloning of the human embryo — pointing to its potential to cure some diseases. A pointed debate about bioethics and reproductive cloning quickly followed.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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News

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary

Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show This coming Sunday, the Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show takes place with a whole host of events for all the family to enjoy. Not surprisingly, their will be plenty of competitions for horses throughout the day including Showjumping, Ponies, Riding Classes and Young Horses among other events, and the action starts from 9am.

The featured highlight of the showjumping schedule will be the €3000 Grand Prix, while along with the horse events their are competitions in a wide variety of areas including Cattle Pedigree, Pets - Dogs and Cats, Sporting Contests, Macra Na Feirme and, Tug of War among many other events.

Another event on Sunday that should prove very popular is The Sportsman Showjumping Classes which is open to everyone, and that is particularly geared towards

unregistered riders/horses and everyone goes home with a rosette.

Huge amount of preparation in advance has gone into preparing the course by the designers Alyson Freeman, Joseph Rafter, John O'Boyle and Pat Drennan for all the competitions that will happen all day long from early morning.

First established as The Ballyfoyle Gymkhana in 1994 and for so many years was primarily a Showjumping event, but on the 25th anniversary of it's first running of The Gymkhana in 2019, the event was relaunched and expanded as The Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show.

Sunday should bring about some of Irelands leading

Showjumpers and Pony Riders with The Grand Prix part of The Nationwide Summer League Tour, while The Pony Competitions are part of The Showjumping Ireland Pony League for 4-5 year-olds and 6-7 year-olds.

The Callanan Cup and The Con Hogan Memorial Trophy are up for grabs on Sunday and previously they have been won

by International Riders who have competed for Ireland, so their should be a high standard of competition in Ballyfoyle.

Their are 74 classes on offer across ridden horses and ponies, working hunter and performance, so their is a great variety in the various different disciplines across 5 Rings.

In Ring 1 in The Ridden Hunter Categories, there is a Hunter Championship for Classes 1-5 that includes a Qualifier for The Red Mills Champion of Champions Ridden Hunter Final, while their is also The Ridden Horse Championship for Classes 6-11.

The Ridden Horse Championship for Classes 6-11 is also a Qualifier for The Red Mills Champion of Champions Ridden Horse Final.

The Ridden Ponies take centre stage in Ring 2 where events include The Show Hunter Pony Championship and Show Pony Championship along with The Connemara Championship.

The working hunter Classes take centre stage in Ring 3

where they have The Pony and Hunter Championships, Performance Classes take centre stage in Ring 4, while in Ring 5 is where The Broodmare and Youngstock Championships will happen.

Also what should prove very popular on Sunday especially for the youngsters is The Local Lead Rein in which their are categories for Under-4s, Under-6s and Under-8s.

Their is also a Fancy Dress Competition that is open to Children aged 8 and under, while The Overall Champion will win The Billy Byrne Memorial Trophy.

The Local Lead Rein will start at 1pm followed by The Dog Show at 3pm.

Since relaunching in 2019, The Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show has expanded greatly with a wide variety of events and it's now similar to lot of similar type shows that are run throughout the country during the summer shows.

For further details, check out The Ballyfoyle Agricultural Show Page on Facebook or email ballyfoyleshow@gmail. com

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Showtime

Ireland’s biggest outdoor basketball exhibition game showtime – July 8th 2023 SHOWTIME is coming back to Thomastown…… don’t miss out on what will be one of Irelands biggest ever outdoor basketball exhibition games! It will be held on Saturday the 8th of July at 6.00pm, in Thomastown in County Kilkenny.

Featuring the top players in Irish Basketball.

July 8TH 2023 – KICK OFF 6.00PM Contact; Russ Ryan 087 1177720 russryan08@ gmail.com Or ronan.ryan@ kilkennycoco.ie The Thomastown based Berkeley Boys Basketball CLUB are delighted to announce that following the huge success from last year’s Outdoor Basketball Exhibition Game, they are doing it again in Thomastown, Kilkenny on Saturday the 8th of July (kick off 6pm). Last year the crowds came in their droves (600-700) to witness this unique and exciting family event that showcased the skills of top Irish International, National League and Professional Basketball Players. Russ

Ryan, organiser said that they are expecting a big crowd again this year where the event will kick off at 6pm with a Senior Ladies exhibition game followed by the men’s exhibition game and finishing up with a monster

dunking competition.

Russ said that last year the exhibition game was like a dream come true for so many kids to see the players put on a show with plenty of slam dunks and slick moves, in what was a brilliant

atmosphere. This year’s event will once again have a festival-like family event with DJ, spot prizes, food trucks and a monster dunking competition, where we will get to see some of Ireland's best dunkers put on a show for all to enjoy.

This newly developed amenity located in the centre of the town was developed and funded under the Town & Village Renewal Scheme

by Kilkenny County Council.

The amenity has a large

permanent amphitheater which creates the perfect environment for spectators of all ages to watch this exhibition game. Russ said ‘’the game will showcase some of Irelands top talents he also said keep an eye out for some legends of the game from years gone by who will also be in attendance.

Russ thanked the organising committee and local sponsors who are kindly supporting this unique community event. They include, the Thomastown Creche and Montessori School, Panoptic IT Solutions, Walsh’s

Centra & Texaco Garage, Kilkenny County Council, the Department of Rural & Community Development, Kilkenny County Council, the Thomastown Credit Union and Adele's Eat Train and Live. Centra Thomastown Thomastown Creche & Montessori School Panoptic I.T. Solutions Kilkenny County Council Thomastown Credit Union Adele's Eat Train Live Kilkenny County Council Hillary Nets We hope you can join us in Thomastown, County Kilkenny on Saturday 8th of July kick off at 6pm.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Community & GAA Notes

WALKATHON Clara Walkathon 24th June. What’s happening? -; 07.00 - 19.00. Walkathon, each team/committee group will have a specified hour that they will walk (sponsorship cards are being distributed). Aim is to walk 1000km in the Day, Which team will do the most?

14.00-15.30 LGFC U8 and U10 blitz 16.00 -18.00 Mini games - target games 19.00 Senior Hurling game V O’ Loughlin Gaels Also: Raffle, guess the number of sweets in the jar, sports gear sale, tea/coffee stand etc……

Fun for all! All support appreciated. All proceeds go towards funding Clara GAA, Camogie and LGFA. CLUB LOTTO Lotto Results 13th June. Numbers drawn. 7, 14, 16. No Jackpot winner. €30 each to Jack Carrigan, Conor Nolan, Denis Tobin, Dara Cooke, Robert Coogan Next weeks Jackpot is a huge €3,250. Thanks to all for your support.

CEMETERY MASS A cemetery mass for Rathcoole graveyard on the Sandford Court road will be celebrated in Johnswell church on Thursday 29th June at 7.30pm. All are welcome.

SUPPORTERS CLUB Kilkenny GAA Supporters Club. For anyone wishing to join or pay their membership renewal please contact Martin Nolan of Clara at 086-2343254. Thanks for the support.

SCHOOLS FINAL Clara N.S. came up short for the second year running when they were beaten by a bigger Kilmanagh side in the final of the Roinn B championship in Nowlan Park. The early exchanges were even enough but when corner forward Evan Corcoran fielded a great ball and deftly dispatched it to the Clara net the Kilmanagh team seemed to get a huge boost of confidence.

Corcoran would go on to have a major bearing on the result here, finishing with 1-3 to his name. Dara Leamy from a free and Mícheál Meany had given Clara the lead prior to this score and Clara were holding their own. But driven on by giant centre back Charlie Teehan and imposing midfielder Billy Ronan Kilmanagh scored five of the next six points. Clara’s only response in this period was another Dara Leamy free.

Aaron Carrigan interrupted the sequence with a fine point but Billy Ronan scored his fourth free of the half just afterwards to leave the interval score at 1-7 to 0-4.

Clara needed a quick start to the second half but Harry Brennan pounced for an opportunist goal. A Billy Ronan free was answered by a fine Dara Leamy effort before Ronan went on a surging run and unleashed a piledriver of a shot and Kilmanagh now led by 12. To Clara’s credit they never capitulated and three more points from captain Mícheál Meany as well as further scores by Aaron Carrigan and Dara Leamy ensured that Clara were competitive to the end. The deficit was still 12 at the final whistle - 3-13 to 0-10.

As well as those already mentioned Clara had fine displays from Liam Tracy, Raphael Scanlon, Sam Corr and Jake Brett while goalkeeper Daniel O Brien could do nothing about the three shots that beat him and looked very solid. But this was a well deserved win for the Kilmanagh lads and John Hoyne and captain Will Cody were others who caught the eye.

Credit is due here also to Clara’s management team of Richie Mulrooney and Paddy Deegan who guided the team to their second final in succession- no mean achievement.

Team - Daniel O Brien, Liam O Callaghan, Liam Treacy, Oliver Butler. Raphael Scanlon, Sam Corr, Cathal Bennett. Dara Leamy 0-4, 0-2f, Jake Brett. Ciaran Gibbons, Mícheál Meany 0-4, Rory Treacy. Matthew Cooke, Aaron Carrigan 0-2, 0-1f, Ger Cody. Subs James McDonald, Aidan Butler, Gearóid Meany, Zach Carroll.

POC FADA Matt Kenny of Clara was crowned Kilkenny Poc Fada champion on Tuesday of last week when he beat off stiff competition at Gowran Racecourse. By doing so Matt was following in the footsteps of Killian Phelan, who last year went on to claim the national crown. Killian was exempt from qualifying this year and can go on to defend his national title if he chooses to. It is great to see Clara men doing so well in the long puck as the late Lester Ryan was such a terrific promoter and supporter of the competition. Other notable past Clara winners were father and son combination Anthony Prendergast (RIP) and Brian.

CAMOGIE The Clara senior ladies travelled south to Windgap on Sunday to play the hosts. Still struggling for numbers, this time they had 14 players and Windgap agreed to play with the same number. Despite playing well they lost out on a 3-13 to 2-13 scoreline.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Aine McDonald, Rachel Whelan, Aoife Treacy. Joanne Comerford, Katie Ryan, Margaret Kehoe.

Rebecca Nolan. Niamh Ward, Grace Barcoe, Emma Corr. Maria Shortall, Keara Ryan, Róisín Kealy.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of club Lotto (June 13). Numbers drawn were 8, 18, 24, 25 Bonus 28.Play again at www.oloughlingaels. com/lotto

This is a great addition to the village so why not call in and support the local business and see for yourself, meet a friend for a cuppa and a chat at a reasonable prices. Or just relax and have a nice read of your free Kilkenny Observer.

IONAD LACHTAIN HERITAGE CENTRE Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.30pm. Gifts on sale to suit every occasion.

FITNESS SESSIONS Boxing/fitness sessions at Community Hall Freshford. Have you had a diagnoses of Parkinsons; Alzheimers or other neurological condition? If so maybe you are keen to get some level of fitness back or work on you balance or upper body strength. These classes are just what you need. Classes take place each Tuesday from 11am to 12 noon - sessions cost just €10 each and are facilitated by a boxing coach. They will also give you the chance to socialise and meet other people. For more information or to sign up please contact Brenda Cooper on 0871369253 PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm.

Notices The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm.

Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21 HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary.

If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808.

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

This year’s Kilkenny Poc Fada champion Matt Kenny with last year’s All Ireland champion Killian Phelan both from Clara

Promotors Draw. 1. Delores Walsh c/o E Maher. 2. Millie Cody c/o M Nolan. 3. Ml Butler 4. Richie Moylan. 5. Mai Doyle. 6. Christine Trehy c/o E Kinchella. 7. Kieran Ryan c/o G Buckley. 8. Ger Smith c/o Online 9. Paula Rogers c/o Online. 10. Warren Gill c/o Online Thank you for your continued support GIVE RESPECT GET RESPECT As our games continue we ask that all supporters encourage our teams in a positive fashion. Respect match officials, mentors, players and oppositions. Let everyone involved enjoy their games DIARY DATES Summer Camp - July 24th to August 4th. FULL - please note payments must be made to confirm booking Golf Classic - Aug 17th & 18th Race night - August 25th Tickets on sale through players and committee in the coming weeks

ST LACHTAIN’S ARM It was a historical and great day for Freshford on Saturday last.

The loan of the reliquary of St.Lachtain’s arm to the museum at St. Lachtain’s Church has been a long time in the planning.

Ned Kennedy opened the event and Malcolm Noonan TD spoke also. Wonderful contributions were heard from Dr.Griffin Murray from the School of Archaeology UCC and Maeve Sikora (Keeper of Antiquities at the National Museum of Ireland) The Garda Siochana were also on hand to protect the artefact. The day was rounded off for the visitors with a decilious lunch at the Loop Café. A huge amount of people visited Freshford and the museum throughout the day and it surpassed all expectations. A massive congratulations to all at Ionad St Lachtains Church museum and Arts Centre.

PLAYGROUND Freshford Playground is now fully open. The long awaited playground which is situate at Kilkenny Road is now up and running and is a great facility to the children and families in the village and surrounds. Much credit is due to the hard working committee who have worked so hard over the past few years to achieve this.

MEMORIAL WALK

The Catherine Kavanagh ten year Anniversary Memorial Walk took place last Sunday and despite the showery conditions there was a great turnout. The walk started from the GAA Grounds then travelled up the Tullaroan Road through Uppercourt and back down by Woodview to the Grounds where refreshments were served. Thanks to all those who donated on the day. All proceeds will go to the local branch of St. Vincent de Paul.

SUMMER CAMP Freshfords longest annual summer camp will be held again this year from the 31st July to 4th August at the GAA Grounds.

This camp has been organised and run for the past two decades almost by local man JJ Grace and his aids. For bookings or more information please contact JJ on 086 8629666 HOME IN FRESHFORD Home on holiday in Freshford all the way from San Fransisco were Jack Doyle his sister Teresa and her family. The group travelled home to celebrate their mother Kathleen’s 90th birthday recently.

Also holidaying in Freshford at the minute from Norway are Bjorg Dunne and her family at their home at Buncrussia Street.

GAA St.Lachtains National school hurling team took on Danesfort in the final in Nowlan Park. The boys played very well and were unfortunate to be beaten. Well done to the teachers and management and all involved.

Local young boy Michael Hickey was among those playing in Croke Park at half time during the Leinster final recently.

LIGHTING FOR WALKWAY Funding was announced recently for the lighting of the proposed new walkway project in St.Lachtains GAA Club. The money has been allocated under the Committee Recognition fund and will be of great benefit to the community and surrounding area, Cllr Michael McCarthy revealed.

LOOP CAFE Loop Café is proving very popular indeed. The Cafe is now open on Sundays from 11am to 4pm and is open each week from Tuesday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. Serving some beautiful snacks and food, from homemade scones, homemade soup and brown bread and lovely salads they have added some new delicious items to their menu. They served beautiful iced coffee also during the hot spell recently.

GOWRAN PARISH Celebration Mass for Fr Dalton receiving the Bene Merente Medal for his work as the Diocesan Secretary for School Boards of Management for over thirty years on Friday 30th June at 7.30.pm. All are welcome to attend and come for a cup of tea in the hall afterwards. Gowran Pastoral Committee.

GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Well done to Patrick Robinson and Pat Holmes on winning the Intermediate and Junior A sections at the CKW Regional Strokeplay played at a superbly prepared Bagenalstown course.

Both Patrick and Pat were second going into the final 18 holes.

5 under for Patrick and a level par round for Pat in the junior A would be enough to see both cups heading for Gowran.

Well done to all who played, Ladies and Gents representing the club at the event.

GOWRAN AC The Club has been busy recently with juvenile and seniors athletes competing in various races around the country and county. The u12 boys relay had a brilliant 5th place finish in a super fast final in Tullamore at the Leinster Relays.

Huge congrats to Mick Walsh on a 1st in the O60 men’s in St.Senans little south run. Mick was also part of the men’s novice team with Gerry Walsh, Adrian Cunningham and Darren Evans, winning bronze.

Gowran was well represented at the Danesfort mile marker recently too, with Orla Clear the 3rd female home in the 10mile. Many members of Gowran AC social running group also competed in both the 5 and 10 mile race.

In Dublin, Gill Kavanagh and Matt Ryan had a great run in the Athletics Ireland Race series 5mile in Phoenix Park, well done to all.

KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL The Festival takes place on Sunday July 9th at Gowran Park Kilkenny.

This is one of the major fundraisers for the club, and volunteers will be needed to help both set up the venue and on the day to steward. All help greatly appreciated.

FOUR GOAL GIRLS DELIVER FIVE STAR PERFORMANCE TO COMPLETE DOUBLE The Young Irelands U-14 Girls are in Double Celebration Mode after they completed a double of League Final Triumphs in Thomastown.

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Community & GAA Notes On Friday June 9th, The First Young Irelands Team in action defeated Erins Own Castlecomer 2-8 to 2-4, while on Thursday15th in Thomastown on a most glorious Summer Evening, The Second Young Irelands Team in action produced a Superb 5-Star-Performance to defeat Tullogher 4-12 to 3-5 to complete The League Double.

Congratulations girls on a superb double and very best wishes ahead in their preparations for The Championship.

JUNIORS BATTLE HARD TO FINISH GROUP CAMPAIGN ON A HIGH The Young Irelands Junior A Hurling Team finished their League campaign on a high as they won 0-18 to 0-14 against Graigue-Ballycallan.

It wasn’t pretty and certainly not the most prettiest of performances, but Young Irelands showed an appetite for hard work as they ended up as Group Winners following the conclusion of League matches.

The Gowran Men led 0-8 to 0-6 at half-time with Paddy Langton leading the way as he gave an exhibition at CentreBack.

Paddy scored a superb long range point from play in the 17th minute, while Dylan Carey (Frees), Patrick Brennan and Jimmy Lennon were among those also on target during the first-half.

Young Irelands started The Second-Half with three unanswered points - that included a great effort from Kevin Quinlan - as they led 0-11 to 0-6 in the 35th minute.

The Gowran Men continued to lead by 5 points at the midway point of the second-half (0-14 to 0-9) as Dylan Carey added a brace of frees, while Paddy Langton fired over a long distance free.

Graigue-Ballycallan enjoyed a purple patch, and by the 53rd minute they had narrowed the deficit (0-15 to 0-13), but The Gowran Men dug deep to finish strongly, and points from The hard-working Patrick Brennan, another long distance free by Paddy Langton, and a close range free by Dylan Carey saw victory secured.

Elsewhere, The Young Irelands Intermediates lost 2-15 to 1-11 against Rower-Inistioge played in deplorable weather conditions following a band of heavy rain, while The Junior F Team concluded their League campaign last week with a loss away to Windgap.

YOUNG IRELANDS GOLF CLASSIC A final reminder of the annual Young Irelands GAA Golf Classic that will take place in Gowran Park this coming Friday 23rd and Saturday June 24th with €3000 in Prize Money on offer.

Tee times available on Friday and from 2pm on Saturday, while a Team of 4 costs €200.Players without a GUI Handicap will be given one on the day, and there will be prizes for Longest Prize, Nearest The Pin and Money Hole.

For further information on Tee Times, contact Liam Walsh on 087 2647248.

EMMET MCAVINEY Emmet McAviney, will be running from Malin Head to Mizen Head between 28th June and 7th July to raise much needed funds for Barnardos Ireland.

That’s approximately 700km in 10 days! If you feel like helping out you can donate at https://www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/ EmmetMcAviney BRENNAN BOYS DELIVER SHOWJUMPING NATIONS CUP GLORY There was major success for The Brennans’, Eoin, Timmy and James as they won The Gold Medal representing Ireland at the FEI Youth Nations Cup in Hagen, Germany.

They will now go forward to The European Championship from 10th-16th July in Italy.

Huge congratulations to them on a wonderful win and very best wishes to them in The Europeans in July.

U-13 HURLING The U-13s won 4-7 to 1-4 against St. Martins last Friday night

Tidy town volunteers working on the river pulling Himalayan Balsam

Himalayan Balsam being pulled, on the River Nore in Bennettsbridge

CHURCH NEWS June offerings for the support of the priests are now due.

Envelopes for the Sacristans collection are available at the back of both churches.

FAMILY FIELD FESTIVAL All roads lead to Johnstown on Sunday next June 25th for the family festival organised by the Johnstown Town Team.

A fabulous day of sport, food, music, crafts, kiddies tractor run, U11 three county hurling blitz, a dog show, fittest family, hanging tough and more will take place in the Sports Field on the Rathdowney Road from 1pm onwards. There will be food and a full bar on site. Music into the evening from Mick Glendon and Sweet Freedom. There is a fantastic raffle on offer with a wheelbarrow packed with vouchers and goodies to the value of €500. Lines at €5 are on sale in all the local shops and in the field on the day. So please come along and enjoy a great day and evening of entertainment and support the community.

HURLING SCULPTURE The unveiling of the hurling sculpture will take place in Johnstown on Sunday next at 3pm. The sculpture, which is located at the Dublin Road side of the village adjacent to the Inver Service Station, is honouring the hurling and camogie players down through the years in the area since hurling was first mentioned as being played at Ballyspellan Spa in 1742.

Myles McCabe of Roadmaster will do the unveiling and all are welcome.

TRIP TO KNOCK This trip is arranged provisionally, provided there are enough numbers, for August 3rd.

Cost €60.25 which includes bus, tea and scone in Moate and dinner in the Abbey Hotel, Roscommon on the return journey.

Contact Margaret on 0568831217 a.s.a.p.

TIDY TOWNS As part of the Himalayan Balsam programme, the women of Bennettsbridge Tidy Towns and Community Development turned up to pull Himalayan Balsam on their stretch of the Nore at Bennettsbridge.

Great to have easy access to the Nore River thanks to Trail Kilkenny. The big wave of pulling continues.

If you or your group want to get some support for your stretch just give us a shout. We have until the end of June to pull #HimalayanBalsam The Heritage Council The Rivers Trust Local Authority Waters Programme.

KATHLEEN KELLY RIP Sympathy is extended to the Kelly family, Killarney on the death of Kathleen who died peacefully at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny on Monday, 12th June 2023.

Beloved wife of the late Tim Kelly and much loved mother of Tim, Billy, Deirdre, Dermot and Eileen. Sadly missed by her loving family, daughters-in-law Joan and Mary, son-in-law John, brother Frank, sisters-in-law Margaret, Marie, Breda, Kathleen and Angela; fondly remembered by her grandchildren, Siobhán, Rachel, Sarah, David and Paul; great-grandchildren Henry and Oliver, nieces, nephews, kind neighbours and friends.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in St Kieran’s Church, Tullaherin, on Saturday. Interment took place in the adjoining cemetery.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Teresa Drea, Barronsland on the death of her sister, Margaret Fleming (nee Drea), Springmount, Waterford Road, Kilkenny and formerly of Paulstown.

EILEEN O’DONNELL RIP Sympathy is extended to the O’Donnell family, on the death of Eileen O’Donnell, Clashwilliam, Gowran, recently. Eileen was

LOTTO Congratulations to Christy Dunne, Ballyreddin, Bennettsbridge, on winning the Jackpot in the local lotto last week.

The Jackpot now reverts to €1,000.00, still worth a gamble folks, with five consolation prizes of €50.00 drawn each week.

CHURCH NEWS MASS TIMES FOR WEEKDAYS Wednesday 10.30am. Friday 10.30am CHOIR NOTICE Choir is requested for the visit of Bishop Niall Coll to Bennettsbridge this Sunday to celebrate mass. The mass will be concelebrated with Fr Dalton and Fr Duggan. It is hoped to have a combined choir involving folk, and Bennettsbridge/ Tullaherin choirs.

Afterwards there will be refreshments in the community hall for everyone and an opportunity to meet the bishop.

GAA CLUB HURLING Well done to the junior B team who defeated Conahy in the last round of the league on Sunday last. The seniors lost out to O’Loughlin’s in the Byrne Cup and play Dicksboro at home next Friday night.

FEILE WEEKEND We wish the very best of luck to our under 15 hurlers and camogie teams who both take part in the Féile competition next Saturday. The hurlers are playing in Castlecomer while the camogie team are in action in Kinnity in Offaly. The hurlers play Oulart The Ballagh, Dungarvan and Ballinameer / Durrow. The camogie team play St Patrick’s from Tipperary, Lusmagh and Cappoquin. All support greatly appreciated for both teams.

U 13 HURLING Our under 13s defeated Erin’s Own in the second last round of the league to continue their good run of form while our 13 a side lost out to The Village by two points in their league match.

FIELD DAY 2023 This year the field day will take place on August 20th in the GAA grounds.

BENNETTSBRIDGE SCRAP METAL COLLECTION Many thanks to all who contributed to Bennettsbridge GAA recent scrap metal collection which had a very good response.

Please contact Leo 086-8861906 or Tim 086-3441652 if anyone has more scrap to donate and they will arrange collection.

HURLERS CO-OP DRAW Many thanks to all who bought and sold tickets this year.

Congratulations to Alan Dobbyn who won 100 euro in the first draw that took place last week. The next draw takes place on 27th of June.

SPLIT THE POT Well done to Ger Kelly who won 136 euro, Kathleen O’Neill who won 30 euro and Bill Nolan who won 20 euro. Envelopes to enter are available around the village. If you want to play online with clubforce please see the clubs Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.

well known in the village as she shopped on a regular basis in the locality.

Eileen passed away peacefully on 7th June 2023 at Aut Even Hospital, Kilkenny. Pre-deceased by her loving husband, Jackie O’Donnell. Eileen will be sadly missed by her son Rory, daughter Rosemary, son-in-law Pat, daughter-in-law Clodagh,

grandchildren Jack, Eva and Margaret Rose, brothers Tom and Noel, sisters Maureen, Liz and Angela, brothers-in-law, sistersin-law, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours and friends.

Requiem Mass was celebrated in the Church of the Assumption, Gowran, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery.

JOHNSTOWN HERITAGE GROUP The Heritage group are having a coach trip to Johnstown Castle, Museum and Gardens, Wexford on Thursday July 6th Cost €60 which includes bus, tea and scone on arrival and a guided tour of the castle, and dinner on return at the Hoban Hotel, Kilkenny. A non refundable deposit of €20 will hold the seat. Information and booking to 0863272288.

CEMETERY MASSES The Mill Cemetery, Urlingford Friday June 23rd, Graine Friday June 30th, Grangefertagh Tuesday July 4th, Galmoy Friday July 7th, Crosspatrick Sunday July 9th and Johnstown Tuesday July 11th. All masses at 7.30pm except Crosspatrick 9am.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Community & GAA Notes SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO...

Winning numbers 13, 21, 25, 26. There was one match three.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 11am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 11am to 1pm CEMETERY MASSES Following discussions with the priests in the combination group of parishes, it was decided that the cemetery masses for 2023 will take place in the churches at the weekend masses over the summer.

VOCATIONS 2023 is the year for vocations to the priesthood. Leaflets are left in the church and anyone interested in having a chat or would like to find out more information, please contact Fr. Joe Walsh of the Thurles parish.

OPEN GARDEN Open garden will take place at Clough Farmhouse, Clonoura, Glengoole E41 K765 on Sunday 2nd July at 2pm in support of MoChara Animal Rescue and Thurles and District Flower and Garden Club.

GLENGOOLE COMMUNITY GROUP There was a great turnout for the cleanup of the village which made a huge improvement in just one morning. Sub committees have been formed to follow on the plans and events for Glengoole village. Check out and follow ‘Glengoole’ on Facebook and Instagram.

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 4349106 GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to last weekend’s winner, Mary Norton from Ballingarry, who won €246 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of June will be in support of the Camogie Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated BALLYRAGGET Cemetery mass in St Finans Ballyragget this Friday night at 7.30pm please note there will be new parking arrangements in place as the usual field is not available. If you are well and able to walk to the cemetery please do so.

ST PATRICK’S GAA The junior A team were in action against Young Irelands on Tuesday last week and won on a scoreline of 3-17 to 1-12.

They were back out in action against Tullaroan last Friday night and were victorious again on a scoreline of 2-9 to 1-6.

The junior side were in action against Graiguenamangh in the Paddy Cahill quarter final on Sunday and progressed to the next section after winning on a scoreline of 3-12 to 1-12.

Upcoming fixtures the Junior A side will play Mullinavat on Saturday in Mullinavat in the league semi finals. The Under 15 side will play the Rower Inistigoe on Wednesday June 28th at 7pm.

LOTTO The club lotto is €20,000 last week’s numbers 10,20,21,26.

Tickets €2. Thank you always for your continued support.

SYMPATHY Sympathies are sent to the family of Pat Saunders on his recent passing, to his sister Anne and his wife Bridie and his son John, grandson Luke, brothers Thomas , Michael, Noel and Jimmy, sisters Jean and Philomena. May he rest in peace Sympathies also to Mary Kenny, Garnagully on the passing of her brother Harry Wilson Ballyfoyle. May he rest in peace.

KNITTED TEDDY BEARS The Community Hall Group have some beautiful knitted teddy bears for sale. Please contact Juanita Dunphy if you are interested.

TIDY TOWNS Tidy Towns judging is under way and the town is looking great. The flowers on the bridge and those the residents have put out are all adding to the town. If everyone can keep their own areas clean and tidy that would be much appreciated.

CONAHY HURLING Both the intermediate and junior B hurlers were in action over the weekend in their respective leagues. The intermediates produced an excellent second half comeback to defeat St. Martin’s in the Michael Lyng Motors League by 0-20 to 1-16 in Jenkinstown on Friday night last, having been nine points down at half-time. The junior B side also hosted Bennettsbridge on Sunday morning last in Jenkinstown in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior B League, and the visitors were on top early on to lead 1-19 to 3-6 at half-time. The second half was more competitive, but Conahy could not reduce the gap, and Bennettsbridge deservedly won out by 3-26 to 4-13.

Best of luck goes to the under-15 hurlers who will take part in the John West Féile na nGael on Saturday in Canon Kearns Park, Castlecomer. Conahy will play St. Brendan’s (Kerry), Mount Leinster Rangers (Carlow) and Ballinteer St. John’s (Dublin) and further matches after that depending on results.

KNOCK SHRINE A local pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on this

Feile Camogie Girls and their Management Team Saturday, June 24th. A bus will leave Freshford at 7.30 a.m., following by arrival at Jackmans (Jenkinstown) at 8.00 a.m., before arriving in Ballyragget at 8.15 a.m. Names as soon as possible to 056 7767676 or 086 3655418. Please note the bus fare is €25.

GAA SUMMER CAMP Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Bórd na nÓg will once again host a ‘Future Stars’ Summer Camp this year. It will take place in the Polo Grounds, Jenkinstown from Tuesday 1st August to Thursday 3rd August (inclusive). The Camps is open to Boys and Girls between the ages of five and twelve and will take place on each of the three days from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. (with a lunch break from 12.00 p.m. until 12.45 p.m. Detailed and quality coaching will be given to all participants and Kilkenny Inter-County Players will contribute to the coaching, subject to their availability. Registration can be done online via the GAA club website – www.conahyshamrocks.gaa.ie .

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 24, 27 and 36. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Anne Buggy, Rose Kerr McGrath, Margaret O’Hara, Dave Sherman and Seamie Butler. The promoters’ prize winners were Julie Jackman, Teresa Dollard and Kay Phelan. This week’s jackpot now increases to €3,800.

DICKSBORO CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 15th June. Nos. 12 14 21 32. Jackpot: €10,100 Not Won Draw Prizes. €50: Peggy Kennedy c/o Online. €25 each Áine Conroy c/o Gerry O’Neill €25 each Niall Morrissey c/o F and E Morrissey. €25 each Dolores Walsh c/o Online Hurlers Co Op Draw John Corr c/o Jimmy Murphy. Promotors prize Joe Phelan Thank you for your continued support.

DICKSBORO GOLF CLASSIC 2023 Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club are delighted to launch the Annual Golf Classic at Kilkenny Golf Club Friday 14th July with some tee times still available for Thursday 13th also.

Book your Tee Times early as they will fill up quickly. There are limited Juvenile Tee Times at discounted prices. Contact Seamus Rochford for any further details.

SUMMER CAMP 2023 Bookings are now OPEN. The Camp is suitable for kids of primary school age 5-13.

Week 1 Monday July 17th - Friday 21st July. Week 2 Monday Aug 14th - Friday 18th Please Book Early as Spaces are Limited. See our ClubZap for more details or any Committee Member FEILE CAMOGIE 2023 All in Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club wish our Feile Camogie Girls and their Management Team the very best as they compete in the Nationals this Saturday in the GAA Centre of excellence in Mayo. First Match is at 12.10pm against Newmarket on Fergus. Best of luck and enjoy the weekend.

LEINSTER HANDBALL Huge congratulations to our young hurlers who represented Talbots Inch Handball Club over the weekend in the Leinster Finals 60x30. Joe Dowling claimed his first Leinster Title in the u14’s while Anthony Clifford claimed his Title at u16. Rian Dowling teamed up with James Kenny in u16 Doubles who were runners up as was Mikey Stynes at u17. Well done to all the Boro lads involved.

KILMANAGH KITTY PURCELL Fond memories of the late Kitty Purcell was undoubtedly in the minds and on the lips of all who knew her. Kitty was born in Ballycuddihy, Ballycallan where she spent a happy childhood and youth. On her marriage to Willie Purcell, Kitty lived her life at Grawn, Ballingarry. She was a very popular lady and always kept in touch with her friends, which were many. Her death at the age of ninety eight brought sadness to

her family, relatives and friends and the attendance on both occasions of her funeral bore testimony to the popularity with which she held. Her requiem mass which was celebrated in Ballingarry Church by Fr. Derry Quirke, P.P. and Fr. Liam Taylor, P.P. Ballycallan with internment in the adjoining cemetery.

Sympathy is expressed to her daughters Mary, Ann, Breda and Patricia, son Pat, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.

MARY LANIGAN Sympathy is expressed to the extended Lanigan families on the recent death of Mary Lanigan in England. Mary was sister of the late Patsy Lanigan, Graiguehayden.

SCHOOL JUBILEE BOOK St. Aidan’s 50th Anniversary Book is for sale by contacting Brigid on 056 776 9340 or email staidansnskilmanagh@gmail. com and it is also for sale in O’ Connor’s Shop, Kilmanagh.

GAA/PARISH LOTTO The parish re-joins the lotto, both as a participant and beneficiary. While the bulk of the funds go to the GAA to support their current and future plans, the parish will benefit from the enhanced facilities provided at Tom Ryall Park as well as financially. Please continue to support your parish each week through the offertory collection and, if you find yourself in a position to support the lotto too, than please do. Everyone benefits from a successful lotto.

BALLYKEEFFE AMPHITHEATRE The summer concert series began last weekend with Charterhouse Theatre presenting Jane Austin’s Sense and Sensibility.

The first music concert will be on 1st July with the Dublin Gospel Choir. More details at www.ballykeeffeamphitheatre. com.

SCRAP METAL COLLECTION Naomh Aodhán Community Centre will hold their annual Scrap Metal Collection on Saturday & Sunday, the 8th and 9th of July. If you have any scrap metal, they would be happy to receive it. For more information contact Chris at 086 251 7030 or Brian on 087 254 5556. Metal can be left into Brian Harris’s Yard. All funds go towards improvements at the ‘Old School’ (Naomh Aodhán) Community Centre.

DEFIBRILLATOR MAINTENANCE UPDATE All Defibrillators in the community are fully charged and serviced. Thank you to all who took part in the Defibrillator training. We have a good number of people trained and we hope to offer this training again in the autumn. Our next project is to register our Defibrillators with the National Emergency Service. This will provide an accurate location to your nearest Defibrillator in an emergency. We also hope to erect new signs for easier location and access. Thank you for your continued support, from the Defibrillator Maintenance Committee.

SCHOOL MASS Mass for the closing of the school year and farewell to 6th class will take place on next Friday, 23rd June at 10am in Kilmanagh. All are welcome.

LOTTO RESULTS Results for 05/06/23. Numbers drawn were 9; 19; 21; 26. Lucky Dip winners were Sean O’Connor Keane, Teresa Murphy and J. Delaney c/o O’Connors Shop. Sellers’ prizes went to Gearoid Cleere and Adrian Ronan. Next week’s jackpot will be €14,200 and will take place on 19th June at 9pm.

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.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Aghaviller Parish. Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday 24th. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 25th. at 10.00a.m.

Stoneyford. Wednesday 21st. at 7.00p.m. Vigil – Saturday 24th. at 6.30p.m.

Saturday 24th. Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist.

PRAY FOR Martin Cleary, Hugginstown; who died during the week.

ANNIVERSARY MASSES

Oliver Roche, Lawcus. Mass in Stoneyford. Church on Saturday 24th. June at 6.30p.m.

Dick O’Gorman, Hugginstown. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 24th. June at 8.00p.m.

ROTA Rota for next week-end.24th. and 25th. June. (Twelfth Sunday of Ordinary Time) Readers: Stoneyford. Saturday 6.30p.m. Margaret Ryan. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m Tommy Murphy. Sunday 10.00 am Deirdre O’Shea Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford. Saturday 6.30p.m. Barbara Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cuddihy.

Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power.

JUNE COLLECTION The “June Collection 2023” for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese will be taken up during the months of June/July. Envelopes for this collection are available at the back of the Church.

CEMETERY MASSES 2023 Mass in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 1st. July at 8.00p.m.

Mass in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 7th. July at 8.00p.m.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS Diocesan Designated Liaison Person. Ms. Kathleen Sherry Tel: 087 100 0232.

Aghaviller Parish Representatives are. Teresa Broderick and Carmel O’Toole.

FRANCISCAN MISSIONARIES OF MARY Sr. Mary Shanahan of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary will speak about their Mission Work during all Masses in our parish on next weekend 24th./25th. June.

HUGGINSTOWN CEMETERY Tremendous work was done on the clean-up needed around the boundary walls of the old cemetery. Up to twenty volunteers worked on Thursday and Saturday last week to remove all of the rubble. Thanks to Larry Fitzpatrick who took the initiative to begin this work and provided machinery; to Doyle’s Concrete for providing machinery; to John Fitzgerald for arranging volunteers and to many others who provided tractors and trailers and managed the machinery to great effect, thanks also to those who provided refreshments. A Special Thank You to all involved.

LOTTO Lotto, Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 12th. June 2023. Numbers: 11; 15; 19; 32. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: 5 x €30.00. Winners. James and Conor Walsh, Coolmore. Kitty Dwyer, Danesrath; Anna Birch, c/o W. Walshe. James Phelan, Ballinteskin. Liam Cassin, Hugginstown.

3 x €15.00 (Sellers). Jimmy Sheehan. Eilis Rohan. James Irish; THANK YOU Many thanks to the people of our Parish and beyond who came to celebrate with me last weekend my Golden Jubilee to the Priesthood. Thanks for your support, kindness and generosity to me on this occasion and always over the past twenty one years. I would like to thank the Parish Council for organising the Con-Celebrated Mass of Thanksgiving and to all those who helped them with the refreshments after Mass in the Community Centre. Thanks to Bishop Niall, my family and colleagues who came to celebrate with us. I will always remember this celebration and may the Lord continue to protect and bless us all. ( Liam Cassin) KILKENNY OBSERVER NOTICEBOARD PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage will be led by Ossory Adult Faith Development: Visit the places we hear of each time we read the Scriptures: Bethlehem, Nazareth, Garden of Gethsemane, Calvary, the River Jordan, Mount of Temptation, Jericho, Cana, the Mount of Beatitudes, Sea of Galilee, Capernaum and so much more...

Pilgrimage leaders are Fr. Dermot Ryan and Fr. Kieran O’Shea, (Priests of the Ossory Diocese) They will help to deepen our understanding of the Scriptures and the life of Jesus Christ.

Travelling on 19th. February and return 26th. February 2024.

For all further information and bookings please contact Kieran and Laura Troy on 057 935 5050 or email info@myriam.ie

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

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Camogie - Preview

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Glen Dimplex Senior All-Ireland Camogie Championship Group 2 Saturday, Parnell Park, 2pm Dublin vs Kilkenny Brian Dowling’s side make the trip to the Capital tomorrow, knowing that they will need to improve on their opening group game draw with Wexford last time out, if they are to secure maximum points and get their O’Duffy Cup challenge back on track.

Standing in their way tomorrow are the Dublin camogs who had a disappointing afternoon at The Ragg against Tipperary in their first outing in this year’s championship, going down by some 16-points to Denis Kelly’s Premier County side. Both sides know that tomorrow’s game is vital as they seek to gain much much-needed momentum in this year’s campaign.

The blue-clad ladies were well under par, especially in the first half against Tipp and manager Gerry McQuaid alluded to this when speaking to the assembled media afterwards. “We just didn’t get going today, for some reason, we were flat and just didn’t reach the standard that we can.” The Monaghan native will be demanding much more of his team as they take on Kilkenny tomorrow.

The Dubs had a poor Very League campaign, losing four games and drawing one as they saw themselves relegated from Division 1. They managed to pick up the pieces following the early season slump and got themselves going in the Leinster championship. First up for the Dubs was the visit of Wexford to the Trinity Sports Grounds Dublin. McQuaid’s side stood up to the physical challenge that the Slaneysiders provided and emerged two points to the good.

The catalyst for their victory was their tailswoman, Aisling Maher who top scored with 1-8, a tally which included a vital second half penalty. St Vincents clubwoman Maher will be one of the main threats to the Noresiders defence tomorrow, and manager Dowling will need to get his match-up right to try and minimise Maher’s influence on proceedings at Parnell Park. If the Stripeywomen can keep the free count to a minimum, they will leave themselves in a good position to leave the Captial with maximum points tomorrow afternoon.

In the provincial semi-final fixture with Meath, Dublin showed the gulf in clash and dispatched the Royals with ease, cantering to a 16-point win in a game hosted by the Trim GAA club. The name Aisling featured heavily in the facile win, with Maher, O’Neil and Gannon contributing 16 points to the

Dowling out to down Dubs Victory a must in game two

Claire Phelan will look to stand firm

winner’s tally of 1-23. These three ladies will no doubt look to provide the impetus to really trouble Brian Dowling’s team.

Kilkenny took on tomorrow’s opponents in this season’s Leinster final just over a month ago in UPMC Nowlan Park, and it was a much more difficult task than many had expected. Indeed, it took a late goal from star forward Julieann Malone to put a little bit of daylight between the sides, as the home side ran out 4-point winners.

Again, the Aisling trio contributed

all but two of the Dub’s 13-point tally, another indication of the influence that this trinity of players provides to their county.

Along with the Aisling’s, Gerry McQuaid will hope for big games from the likes of Grace O’Shea, Elyse Jamieson Murphy and St Vincents Muirinn Kelleher. Castleknock’s Eabha Mooney is likely to get the nod in the netminder position ahead of Lucan Sarsfields Mairi Moynihan and will hope that the Dublin rearguard gives her adequate protection from the potentially

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Camogie - Preview Aoife Doyle up for the battle

Jenny Clifford on the ball

away. We knew coming in they were a very good team and the girls were focused on it but I don’t know what happened there in the last 15 minutes, very disappointing on our part.”

The O’Loughlin’s clubman will be keen to see his team put in a more solid performance defensively and knows that Dublin have the players to trouble the Nowlan Park

scoreboard if given the chance.

Kilkenny will need the likes of Michelle Teehan, Claire Phelan and Grace Walsh to step up and lead by example and give their defence the platform to nullify the blue threat tomorrow.

It looks like Steffi Fitzgerald and Kellyann Doyle are beginning to forge a decent partnership in the engine room of midfield and I for one, would like to see this duo given another chance to build on recent displays when they run out at Parnell Park on Saturday.

St Martins Katie Nolan top scored for the Noresiders last day out with 6 points and the sharpshooter shared 8 successful placed balls with Windgap’s Denise Gaule. Clearly, the absence of Player of the Year Miriam Walsh is hurting this Kilkenny side. The Tullaroan players leadership, battling qualities and undoubted skill are sorely missed as the Stripeywomen battle to retain the O’Duffy Cup. In her absence, the likes of Aoife Prendergast, Jenny Clifford and Aoife Doyle have all tried to negate the All-Star’s unavailability.

Seasoned campaigners Densie Gaule, Katie’s Nolan and Power will need to step up and guide the black and amber attack through what appears to be challenging times for the reigning All-Ireland holders and the Kilkenny faithful will be hoping that their season kicks into gear with victory in the Capital tomorrow afternoon.

Steffi Fitzgerald midfield enforcer

>> SHERRY SAYS..

potent Kilkenny attacking unit.

For our senior ladies, tomorrow represents the opportunity to banish the wrongs of that opening day draw with Wexford.

Dowling’s ladies were cruising at home to Colin Sunderland’s side, 10 points to the good at one stage but somehow managed to allow their Brian Dowling will demand more opponents back into the

game, conceding 3 majors across the course of the game.

Dowling’s disappointment was evident when he addressed the press after the frustrating draw.

“We’re very disappointed,” the Kilkenny bainisteoir admitted. “I think we went ten up at one stage and looked like we were in complete control. We totally took our foot off the gas and in fairness to Wexford they kept plugging

We should be running out onto the Parnell Park pitch tomorrow with a win under our belts already. Surrendering a huge lead to Wexford at home was not what we have come to expect from our senior ladies over the past 2-3 seasons. However, this season has been a little stop / start and inconsistent for Dowling’s panel. The boss is realistic enough to know that improvements are needed and soon.

Looking at our rivals, Cork, and Galway are certainly ahead of Kilkenny at present. The likes of Tipperary, Wexford and Waterford are catching up with the so-called bigger guns. Again, that’s why the Dublin match is crucial for our ladies to set down a marker for the other pretenders to our crown.

I expect a reaction from the panel tomorrow. Win in the Captial and we can then plan for an evening tussle with The Premier County Saturday week in UPMC Nowlan Park. Home comforts, only if maximum points are gained against the Dubs.

• Congratulations to our Intermediate camogs who topped group 1 with three straight victories. Seamus Kelly’s charges had 8 points to spare over Galway to build on wins against Cork and Dublin.

They can now look forward to the knockout stages of this year’s championship.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Motors Classifieds

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

NOW OPEN SATURDAY MORNINGS 9.30am to 12.00pm

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JOEPARSONSGARDEN MAINTENANCE SERVICES INCLUDE • Hedge cutting • • Grass cutting • • Power washing • • Dry rubbish removal • • Tree pruning •

CONTACT JOE: 086-8587568

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023

Planning notices Online

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Bernard O’Flaherty intend to apply to above authority for permission for the following at Leylandii, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny. (a) Redesign of House at Granted Permission P18297 by (1) Fitting of 2 No. Dormer Windows in front pitch of cottage roof and (2) Relocation of Velux Windows to rear pitch of cottage roof (b) New front boundary wall consisting of block wall mounted Wrought Iron Fencing with vehicular gate and personnel gate. (d) Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Bernard O’Flaherty

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Significant Further Information/Revised Plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of Planning Reference 2360050, Permission sought for change of use of the single storey element of the existing residential dwelling to office use to include car parking, including all ancillary and associated services at Norelands, Cotterellsbooly, Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny. The Significant Further Information is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation 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. Applicant: Ballylinch Stud

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission is sought for new vehicular staff entrance to staff car park off the Waterford Road (R713) closing the vehicular element of the existing entrance, (remaining as a pedestrian entrance) with all ancillary and associated services at Stoneyford National School, Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, I, Philip McGorisk intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning permission for a change of use of 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 the existing first floor unit with ground floor access, from use as three number one bedroomed flats to use as or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the a single residential unit with three bedrooms, internal alterations including all associated site works at Barrack prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning Street, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny, R95DR63 (Above McGorisk’s Pharmacy). This property is in an Architectural application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant Conservation Area. permission.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of Applicant: Board of Management, Stoneyford National School. 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Nextgen Design, www.ngdb.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Stephen Murphy intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission to build an extension to the side of existing dwelling house, internal changes, upgrading of sewage system to a secondary treatment system and soil polishing filter and all associated site development works at Bullockhill, Ballyfoyle, Co. Kilkenny R95 E5N4 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.

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

Beloved St. Clare,

by your trust in God’s providence, obtain help for all the poor and needy; by your love for the Infant Jesus, obtain the protection of our families; by your love for Jesus crucified, obtain for us courage in every trial; by your love for Jesus in the Eucharist, obtain our request……….. by your attentiveness to the Holy Spirit, obtain for us the grace of prayer and devotion; by your likeness to Mary our Mother, obtain peace in our hearts our homes and our world. Amen. P.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.B.

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms.

The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours.

Amen P.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.D.

Beloved St. Clare,

by your trust in God’s providence, obtain help for all the poor and needy; by your love for the Infant Jesus, obtain the protection of our families; by your love for Jesus crucified, obtain for us courage in every trial; by your love for Jesus in the Eucharist, obtain our request……….. by your attentiveness to the Holy Spirit, obtain for us the grace of prayer and devotion; by your likeness to Mary our Mother, obtain peace in our hearts our homes and our world. Amen. B.H.

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.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.M.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.J.B.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23 June 2023