Kilkenny Observer 23 October 2026 by Kilkenny Observer

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Friday 23rd October 2026

Women's Fear Delays with scans for breast cancer  Marianne Heron Page 12

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A leavened playing pitch

Clubs fear huge losses as construction firm faces liquidation A number of sports clubs across the country – including in Co. Kilkenny – are anticipating huge losses for uncompleted work, as a major company specialising in artificial pitches faces liquidation. Kilkenny GAA and two schools are among those set to be hit with losses if Clearwater Construction and Landscap-

ing (CWC) goes into liquidation. The Co. Wicklow construction company, owned by PJ Norton, faces being liquidated after calling a creditors’ meeting, due to take place today, Friday, October 23. A creditors’ list is said to include the names of more than 130 businesses, clubs, schools

and individuals owed money by CWC. The names of around 11 sports clubs, including Kilkenny GAA’s Centre of Excellence, were on the list. Two schools were also named: Our Lady of Lourdes National School (NS) in Bunclody, Co. Wexford, and Our Lady of Consolation NS in Dublin.

Kilkenny GAA confirmed it had engaged CWC to undertake “minor repair works” at its training centre in Dunmore. It said a “nominal deposit” had been paid in advance of the proposed work. CWC’s latest accounts showed the company turned a profit of €210,362 last year, bringing its retained earnings

to over €510,000. However, the company owed over €1.4m to creditors – a sum due within one year. While CWC turned a profit, it was also sponsoring a host of different sports clubs, including Wexford Camogie. The Irish Independent last week reported that Wexford hurler Lee Chin had previ-

Student Ted awarded €24k scholarship

The day of days of unfathomable grief and sorrow Four coffins arriving at the church in Waterford City at the funeral of Philip and Kim English and their children Callum and Jayden. Referring to the arson attack that claimed their lives, Parish Priest Fr Gerry Chestnutt said that “forces of darkness came in the dark and devastated a family”. Three more people were arrested last Tuesday as the major Garda investigation into the Waterford arson attack continues. This comes after two others, a man (21) and a woman (31) have been charged with the arson attack at Birch Avenue, Birchwood, Waterford on Tuesday, October 13. The two appeared before a sitting of Waterford District Court last Tuesday, October 20 and were further remanded in custody.

They help save lives. It’s CRITICAL A charity whose volunteers have responded to more than 60 life-threatening emergencies in Kilkenny City since February has received €26,000 in funding from AIB’s Community €1 Million Fund. CRITICAL is alerted by the National Ambulance Service to incidents within a 10km radius of Kilkenny City and started responding in February.

CRITICAL’s first responders are local volunteers trained to provide immediate, lifesaving medical care in the vital minutes before an ambulance arrives. The Kilkenny volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds including the emergency services, defence forces, retail and business. Pictured back row from left: David Tighe CEO CRITICAL,

ously worked with CWC. He no longer has any ties to the company. “My role was limited to identifying and securing potential business opportunities, primarily with sports clubs and schools across the South East,” he said. “I had no authority in the financial management of the business.”

Tadhg O’Shea CRITICAL CFR Kilkenny responder, Jason Dempsey AIB, Edward Walsh and Donnie Lucey CRITICAL, and Cathriona Murphy AIB. Front from left, Anne Reilly, Kathleen O’Carroll and Stephen Happe, CRITICAL CFR Kilkenny responders with Robyn Kehoe and Eabha Heffernan AIB. PHOTO: Dylan Vaughan

Kilkenny student Ted Crowley [pictured] has been awarded a €24,000 Naughton Foundation Scholarship to attend college. The Naughton Foundation Scholarship Awards nurture Ireland’s next generation of talent by supporting exceptional students as they pursue thirdlevel degrees in engineering, science, technology and mathematics. Ted Crowley, a former student of Kilkenny College, has accepted a place to study Engineering at UCD. Kilkenny College was awarded €1,000 towards their school’s science facilities, for their support of their winning student. Well done, Ted ...

Callan Heritage to host lecture Callan Heritage Society will host a lecture on Friday October 30 in the Edmund Rice Centre, Westcourt, Callan at 7.30pm. It is entitled ‘The life And Times Of Jim Roughen’. From Ahenure, Callan, Roughen was Commandant of the 7th Battalion of the IRA during the War of Independence. The speaker is Niamh Hassett.

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News

Keeping you trick-or-treaters safe Halloween should be full of spooky fun, not unexpected scares. Ahead of the big day, the HSE’s mychild.ie shares some tips and advice for parents to help keep children safe. Dr Abigail Collins, National Clinical Lead, HSE Child Health Public Health and Consultant in Public Health Medicine, said: “Children are bewitched by Halloween with all the fun and excitement of costumes and trick-or-treating. Whether you’re a parent of spooky skeletons or a neighbour expecting haunted hordes at your door, there are some key messages to keep little ones safe. “Flames fascinate children and costumes can catch fire. Avoid lighting candles around your home and garden – use battery-operated candles instead if you want to create that Halloween atmosphere. With darker evenings at this time of year, make sure both adults and children are visible when out and about and trick-or-treating. If you are driving at Halloween, remember to slow down and watch out for children in dark costumes.” Another thing to consider is your choice of treats. Soft jellies and small chocolate bars are safe choices for most children. Beware of treats that

could be a choking risk for younger visitors. For example, small hard round or ovalshaped sweets (these include fruit gums, jellybeans and lollipops), as well as marshmallows, popcorn, chewing gum, whole nuts and small hard chocolates. Opt for nut-free

treats if possible. Darker evenings mean less visibility, so make sure you and your trick-or-treaters can be seen when out and about. You can use reflective strips, high-visibility clothing and a torch. Have an adult at the front and another at the back

of the group to keep watch. Drivers should take extra care on Halloween night as children in costumes may be less visible. If you are buying a Halloween costume, check for the CE mark and a ‘flame resistant’ label. With candles

and other fire hazards at Halloween, flame-resistant costumes offer extra protection. Wearing ‘normal’ clothes under the costume could provide some protection should the costume catch fire. Avoid oversized shoes or long material that could

cause trips or falls. Check costumes and accessories for small parts that pose a choking hazard for younger children. At this time of year, lots of homes are decked out in Halloween decorations and ready to receive trick-ortreaters. Make sure there are no lit candles unattended around your home or garden to reduce the risk of burns to children. Battery-operated candles are a safer choice. Make sure to keep button batteries out of children’s reach – they are harmful if swallowed and a choking risk. Button batteries can be found in some Halloween toys and decorations. Despite best efforts, accidents can happen. If your child’s clothes catch fire: get them to stop, drop and roll. This involves them stopping immediately, dropping to the ground, covering their face with their hands and rolling until the fire is out. If they cannot stop, drop and roll, smother the flames with a blanket or towel. If their skin gets burnt and it is safe to do so, hold the burnt skin under cool running tap water for 20 minutes and seek medical help right away. • For more advice all year round, visit mychild.ie.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

News

Break in Martha yacht death mystery Investigators in the US have located a US man at the centre of a $50m (€45m) civil lawsuit over the death of a Carlow woman on board a yacht. The two-month effort to serve legal papers on Christopher Durnan, a 61-yearold millionaire who owned the boat where Martha Nolan-O’Slatarra (33) died in August 2025, is detailed in

court documents filed in the US. Ms Nolan-O’Slatarra [pictured] was found unresponsive at Montauk Yacht Club in East Hampton on Long Island, New York, on August 5 last year. She was pronounced dead at the scene after emergency medical responders and East Hampton police arrived. The entrepreneur, origi-

nally from Carlow, had met up with Mr Durnan on his yacht, Ripple, to discuss business. Durnan dashed down the dock naked at about midnight, screaming for help. Authorities said a postmortem examination carried out by the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office was inconclusive, but that there was “no evidence

of violence” in Ms NolanO’Slatarra’s death. In August, the administrators of Ms Nolan-O’Slatarra’s estate initiated legal proceedings at the Supreme Court of the State of New York against Mr Durnan, seeking $50m in damages following her death. Lawyers for Ms NolanO’Slatarra’s family filed a “summons with notice” in

New York County on August 4, seeking damages for “wrongful death” as well as damages for the “personal injuries and conscious pain and suffering” she sustained before her death. According to legal documents filed in New York on Thursday, Mr Durnan was personally served the summons with notice on October 1.

said. “The Department of Agriculture has also published a trader notice concerning the prohibition on killing dogs, including greyhounds, at knackeries. We believe legitimate questions about traceability, enforcement and the fate of unwanted or retired greyhounds deserve clear answers. We are not alleging that greyhounds are currently being unlawfully killed at knackeries,” Mr Leavy said.

PAW was calling on the Government to establish a clear, humane pathway to phase out greyhound racing, with appropriate transition arrangements and robust protections for every dog affected. Wales and Scotland had legislated to prohibit greyhound racing, while New Zealand had legislated to close its greyhound-racing industry. Ireland, it said, must take animal welfare seriously and plan responsibly for the future.

Massive amount of hospital beds and 1,000 GPs needed for rising population Ireland will need thousands of extra hospital beds, more than 1,000 additional GPs and a major expansion of care for older people to cope with a rapidly ageing population, a new report has warned. The ESRI report found the number of people aged 65 to 84 is expected to rise by almost 60% between 2022 and 2040, while the population aged 85 and over is expected to more than double. Overall, Ireland’s population is projected to grow by 863,000 over the period, putting mounting pressure on a health service already struggling with long waiting lists and widespread out-ofpocket payments for GP visits. The report comes as emergency departments had more than 100 patients on trolleys waiting for a bed for more than 24 hours, including people over 75, signalling a tough winter of hospital overcrowding. By 2040, emergency department visits could increase by up to 27%, outpatient appointments by 28% and GP consultations by 30%. But the greatest increase is expected in care for older people. Demand for home support could jump by as much as 91% as more people need help to remain living independently. Meeting that demand could require between 5,083 and 7,780 additional public hospital beds, along with up to 27,207 extra residential care beds. The health service could also need as many as 1,211 more GPs and 868 additional practice nurses. The scale of the challenge raises questions about whether planned investment will be enough. The Government aims to

deliver 3,378 additional hospital beds between 2024 and 2031, but the report points to construction delays, labour shortages and difficulties recruiting and retaining healthcare staff. Public spending on health and social care reached €25.8bn in 2025, accounting for almost a quarter of all government expenditure. Department of Finance projections suggest spending on health and long-term care could rise from 9.2% of modified gross national income in 2031 to 12.6% by 2065. The Future Ireland Fund, established in 2024 to help prepare for future spending pressures, is unlikely to cover all the additional costs associated with ageing, including healthcare and pensions. Simply asking patients to pay more is not an easy answer either, the report suggested, as higher private contributions could make treatment less accessible and widen health inequalities. Shorter hospital stays, more day surgery and better community-based care could ease pressure on beds, while improved digital services and carefully implemented artificial intelligence could reduce administrative workloads. Healthier diets, more physical activity and reductions in smoking and harmful alcohol consumption could help people stay healthier for longer, reducing future demand for treatment, it said. Without better workforce planning, more efficient services and sustained investment, the challenge will be to meet rising demand without allowing waiting times and pressure on public finances to worsen, it added. See also Page 10

PAW for thought on retired greyhounds Party for Animal Welfare (PAW) is calling for greater transparency and accountability regarding the fate of greyhounds leaving Ireland’s racing industry. PAW has read with concern the recent Agriland report on Sinn Féin’s call for Minister Martin Heydon to resolve the dispute with knackeries over the Fallen Animal Scheme. Spokesperson Cathal Leavy said: “We recognise the importance of knackery

services to farmers, public health and animal welfare. However, we believe the welfare of greyhounds also deserves sustained political attention. “The Irish Times reported in February 2025 that, according to figures supplied by Greyhound Racing Ireland, 202 greyhounds died following racing injuries in 2024. This included 194 dogs euthanised by track veterinarians and eight that died on the track or shortly afterwards,” he

Kilkenny among most outdoorsy counties New research from BUNAC, the interning and working abroad experts offering summer camps in the US and working holidays, has revealed that Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford and Tipperary are among Irish counties producing the most outdoorsy personalities that make the most natural camp counsellors. Every summer, thousands

of young Irish people swap home for an American summer camp, spending nine to twelve weeks teaching children to swim, climb, kayak and sail. In 2025, Ireland sent 1,724 camp counsellors to the US, making it one of the top sending countries in the world. Camp directors look for the same qualities year after

year: young people who are comfortable outdoors, happy leading a group of children, and able to teach a sport or skill. To find where those qualities run deepest, BUNAC combined data across Mountaineering Ireland, home to the country’s hillwalkers and climbers; Scouting Ireland, including its sea scouts; and the GAA, the backbone of

community sport in almost every county. BUNAC measured each county’s activity against its population using CSO Census 2022 figures. Each measure was scored from 0 to 100 and combined into a single Camp Counsellor Index, giving a fair, like-forlike picture of where the country’s natural counsellor talent is strongest.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Troubles afoot as North march to same ol’ drum “Every day here is Drumcree Day. Has been for decades. People ask ‘why dredge up all these old conflicts?’. But they have always been here. It has never stopped,” I am told by Gail Walker, former Editor of the Belfast Telegraph, now its Editor-atLarge. I first met Gail when, in 2007, I headed up to Belfast City to join the Tele as a management consultant where I was to live, work and play in one of Europe’s last great drinking cities. Belfast became my second home and I grew to love the North for myriad reasons: its overwhelming sense, sometimes against the odds, of belief in a peaceful and prosperous future; its rebuilding of bombed-out Belfast from the artistic bustle of the Cathedral Quarter to the shoptill-you-drop ambience of Victoria Square; its pubs and inviting restaurants; the leafy suburbs of south Belfast; and the city’s many festivals.

But most of all it was its people I found intoxicating, with their colloquialisms, a wit that leaves us Southerners in the shade, and a willingness to oblige, evident in the helpful smiles of shop attendants and the wee banter, the howz-bout-ya of those who drive the city’s buses and command its taxis. Northern Ireland is at the epicentre of yet another political storm with the ‘rí-rá’ and ‘ruaille buaille’ over a Protestant parade down the nationalist Garvaghy Road in Drumcree, the once-annual march not having taken place since 1998 – its legacy a bloody reminder of the dark days that were the Troubles. Amid the intransigence of it all are the accusations of damage to the Good Friday Agreement, that Northern Ireland has come nowhere since 1998; of the inaction of the PSNI and the back and forth to the High Court challenging Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Bryant’s ban,

the failure of the Assembly to act, and the “blatant bias” of First Minister Michelle O’Neill. Northern Ireland, the Six Counties, Ulster, the North — call it what you will — is only 100 miles or so up the road from this newspaper’s office, yet only one in 13 of us ‘down here’ has ever bothered to visit Nord Iron, as its 1.87 million inhabitants affectionately call it. Gail Walker tells me: “Every day is Drumcree. Every day is Enniskillen. And Loughinisland. And the Shankill. And Omagh, its horrors playing out at the public inquiry this week. And every squalid terrorist murder at a lonely country road or church or doorstep. “It’s pointless asking why things that are unresolved keep recurring. It’s because they’re unresolved. “The one we were told would resolve them — the Assembly and Executive arising out of the Good

Friday/Belfast Agreement — has quite obviously failed,” she says. “The supposed shared office of First and Deputy First Minister has also failed. The personal relations between the two current occupants have clearly broken down. The political and strategic direction they are

“A packet of chocolate biscuits ... and a Bible..

supposed to provide is nonexistent.” A no clearer picture. Sadly, if you want to see sectarianism in action, look no further than the obstinate 35 Orangemen who want to march the Garvaghy Road and the Republican residents who oppose them. It’s an insidious ‘them and us’ which can affect everything from failure to provide effective government to personal consequences. The Northern Ireland that became my second home today seems almost uninhabitable, with huge health issues, educational underachievement, crumbling roads, rail and utilities infrastructure, chronic neglect of the natural environment, and imploding fiscal debt with no budget. On top of all that, ‘peace’ is an MI5 terrorism threat level standing at ‘substantial’. Arguably, not much of a win for the Good Friday Agreement.

And now, decades on, back to square one – with the Garvaghy impasse. There, more than €3m worth of police presence has kept massed illegal protesters – egged on by Michelle O’Neill and SF leader Mary Lou McDonald – and the Orange parade marchers apart. It’s a reminder of how much needs to be done in the North to cast off the past. Upon leaving Belfast for good in 2013, one of my neighbours, young Evangelical twin Jessica, knocked on my door, proffering a bag. “A wee something from Louise and I to mark your going,” she said, declining to come in. A bottle of wine maybe, I thought, as I opened the bag on closing the door. Inside was a packet of chocolate biscuits ... and a Bible. Only in Belfast, I mused, as I balanced a mug of tea on the Bible and tore open the biscuits. Only in Belfast...

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Church 'concerned' over women murdered at home The leader of the Irish Catholic Church has expressed his concern over women "being murdered in their homes" in Ireland, and the serious issues of coercive control and domestic violence. Archbishop Eamon Martin said the home should be a woman's "most sacred place". He said he had raised the issue of violence against women in Rome last week at an international meeting of

prelates to discuss marriage and the family. "Marriage is a beautiful thing, but marriage and the family are extremely fragile at the moment," Dr Martin told the Irish Independent. Warning that the number of marriages and the number of births were in decline, he said many were challenged and vulnerable due to relationship breakdown, domestic violence and addiction.

Dr Martin was speaking against the backdrop of the National Synodal Assembly, which took place in Gormanston, Co Meath, last weekend, and drew 300 delegates from across Ireland representing all aspects of the Irish church. Lay people, priests and bishops met to consider 35 proposals to guide the future of the Catholic Church in Ireland. One of the outcomes which

surprised delegates whom the Irish Independent spoke to was the opposition to the establishment of a national office for women to foster greater inclusion. The electronic voting recorded that just 12% highly recommended this office for women, another 6% recommended it, 27% said it required further discernment, while 55% did not recommend it. In contrast, 42% of del-

Our ageing population sees rise in winter bugs Ireland's rapidly ageing population is expected to place increasing pressure on healthcare services in the years ahead, according to new research launched at Well into the Future: Preparing Ireland's Healthcare System for an Ageing Population, a symposium moderated by broadcaster Pat Kenny, which brought together policymakers, healthcare professionals, patient advocates and older people's organisations. The new report by Forvis Mazars, and commissioned by Pfizer Healthcare Ireland, examines how respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) could increase demand on Ireland's health services as the population ages, based on three potential scenarios related to population ageing and reporting of cases. The report projects that RSV-related hospitalisations among adults aged 65 years and older could increase significantly over the coming years as the number of older adults in Ireland continues to grow. RSV is a common seasonal respiratory virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can result in serious illness among older adults and can exacerbate underlying conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and congestive heart failure. Accurately diagnosing RSV among older adults can also be challenging, meaning the burden of the virus may be underestimated. The research finds that RSV is already having a significant impact in Ireland. Between 2022 and 2025, there were more than 3,000 RSVrelated hospitalisations and 159 deaths reported among adults aged 65 and over. In 2025 alone, 740 hospitalisations, 13 ICU admissions and

46 deaths were reported in this age group. Older adults are at a higher risk of complications from RSV and in 2025 more than half of the hospitalisations involved adults aged 80 and older. Ireland's population is ageing, with the number of people aged 65 and over projected to grow by around 3% annually over the next five years, while the number of people aged 80 and over is projected to increase by approximately 5% each year. Adults aged 80 and over already account for more than half of RSV-related hospitalisations among older adults, and this growing demographic is expected to drive further increases in RSV-related healthcare demand. The impact on hospital capacity is expected to grow even more quickly than the number of admissions. Annual acute hospital bed use attributable to RSV among older adults was approximately 18,734 bed days in 2025 and is projected to rise to 23,975 bed days by 2031 under the central scenario, with the high scenario projecting as many as 39,913 bed days. The research found that almost two-thirds of all RSVrelated bed demand is likely to occur within a 10-week period each winter. The research also highlights the financial implications associated with RSV. Under the central scenario, RSV-related health system impacts, which include GP visits, ED visits, hospitalisations and ICU visits are projected to total €133 million between 2026 and 2031. Hospitalisations account for the largest share of the costs at €115.1m, with a further €2.7m being spent on those patients who are expected to require ICU care.

egates highly recommended that there should be ongoing exploration of women's ministry in the church, including the diaconate. Another 12% recommended this, 19% said the matter required further discernment and 27% did not recommend it. Irish bishops are meeting to reflect on the assembly's outcomes, the culmination of a five-year journey to engage and sound out the Irish faithful.

Seminar examines ADHD in business

100 hours to create the look Kilkenny-based fashion designer Gemma Holden showcased her work at the Ireland Fashion Week 2026 Graduate Show, Damhsa, with a look inspired by the traditional Irish dance set “King Of The Fairies”. A graduate of Griffith College, Dublin, Gemma draws on Ireland’s rich cultural heritage to inform her creative

approach. As an emerging designer based in Kilkenny, Gemma's work represents a connection between her Irish roots and her creative identity. Through this graduate collection piece, she explores how traditional cultural references can be reinterpreted through fashion, bringing a fresh

perspective to an enduring part of Ireland’s artistic heritage. Her dress, above, was handmade in her studio in Kilkenny. It is a sheer corset dress with handembellished embroidery to mimic the appearance of moss. The dress was entirely handmade by the designer and took over 100 hours to make.

Business owners, entrepreneurs, HR leaders and employers from across Ireland will gather in Waterford next month for ADHD In Business, a one-day conference exploring how ADHD shapes leadership, entrepreneurship and performance at work. Taking place on Thursday, November 19 in the Ardmore Suite at the Tower Hotel, Waterford, ADHD In Business is the first conference in the South East to explore ADHD through the lens of business, leadership and commercial performance. Running under the theme The Edge Of Different Minds, the day brings together keynote talks, fireside conversations and panel discussions, each built around practical takeaways attendees can put to work straight away. ADHD In Business aims to carry that conversation beyond October and into boardrooms, workplaces and business communities across the region. The conference has been created by Evelyn Fitzmaurice, founder of Waterfordbased Ezmar Event Management, who received an ADHD diagnosis later in life and saw a clear gap: plenty of conversation about ADHD in schools and healthcare settings, and very little about what it means for people building businesses, leading teams and managing careers. "Following my diagnosis, I began to understand many of the challenges and strengths that had shaped both my personal and professional life," said Fitzmaurice. "ADHD is rarely discussed in relation to business, leadership and workplace performance. I wanted to create a day that brings together practical expertise, lived experience and strategies people can use, whether they run a business, manage a team or work in HR."

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

No time for delay with detecting breast cancer Confronting the possibility that there is a potential killer in your body is not easy, yet it is something that many women do routinely. Being aware of the threat posed by breast cancer, which affects one in seven women, is important. Not something that is on my mind everyday but something that definitely came to the fore when I went for a Breast Check appointment. There is something about having a tender part of your anatomy clasped by a machine, a bit like being the sandwich in a toast maker, which concentrates the mind. The ‘what if’ element of the experience, where I wondered if something sinister had been found, continued for days until I got notification of the results, especially when I was called back for a repeat test, which happily turned out to be clear. But having the check is a sensible measure which gives routine reassurance for

women. Currently more than 51,000 women are waiting for that reassurance beyond the two-year period for repeat mammogram tests, and 4,455 women aged over 50 have not received their first invitation, it emerged in Dáil question time last week. Breast Check is a free test available in Ireland for women between 50 to 69. The delays are due to staff shortages, especially radiologists, and to increased demand due to our growing population where the numbers eligible for the check have increased by 19% since 2019. Sure, there are similar delays in other areas of the health service, but when it comes to breast cancer timing is critical. The earlier the detection the better the chance of recovery and the less invasive the treatment. Mammography is seen as the cornerstone of breast cancer detection, according to

Arnold Hill, consultant breast and general surgeon at Beaumont Hospital and Chair of Breast Cancer Ireland. Breast cancer is the second most common cause of death from cancer in Ireland with up to 3,700 cases detected and 750 deaths annually with women aged over 50 most at risk. Crucially early detection increases the five-year survival rate by 95%. The test detects cancer in around nine to 10 in every one thousand women. Women themselves can be backward in coming forward, with about 30% not attending for Breast Check. Somewhere between 25-40% of cases are self-detected when women notice a lump in breast tissue or some other symptom and 18% are found by accident. Reassuringly though most breast lumps – about 90% – turn out to be benign. The delays for testing are worrying though, particularly given the still raw memories

of the cervical cancer scandal where false negative smear test results led to deaths that might have been avoided. The cover-up over the false negatives issued to hundreds of women in 2011 and not uncovered until 2017 was

“About 90%of lumps turn out to be benign..

exposed by the late Vicky Phelan who took a High Court Case against the HSE and the Clinical Pathology Laboratories in 2018. Between 209 to 221 women were misdiagnosed and tragically several, including Phelan who died at the age of 48, went on to develop terminal cervical cancer. It seems as though nothing has been learned about the importance of early detection. Ironically, though the delays are happening at a time when technology involved in precision oncology is improving detection and treatment rates. Robotics, targeted therapies and new drugs are set to improve outcomes while international trials have found that AI improves detection rates in reading results by as much as 30% while reducing radiologists’ work by almost half. Mammography, says Arnold Hill, “is a powerful tool, but it’s not perfect. Some cancers

can be challenging to spot on a mammogram, especially in patients with dense breast tissue. With increasing demand for screening, many countries, including Ireland, have a shortage of breast radiologists, the highly trained doctors who read mammograms. This outs pressure on the system and can lead to delays in diagnosis”. Meantime, it is hoped that staff shortages with key vacancies radiologists and radiographers will be filled by the end of the year. Reassuringly, the majority of women who need further appointments after screening have follow up assessment within the target time frame. It’s the difference that early detection makes to five-year survival rate that really brings home its importance. The overall survival rate is 89% according to the National Cancer Registry, while for those detected early at Stage One the rate is 99%.

Top tips to be winter ready We have had a fantastic summer but already many CLAIR of you are thinking WHITTY about natural ways to support your immunity. Echinacea, Vitamin C, Vitamin D and Zinc continue to be the top picks to support immunity. A combination of diet, lifestyle, and topping up with extra nutrition can help. Aim to include plenty of fruit especially berries as they are particularly rich in antioxidants which protect your cells from damage. Vegetables both leafy green ones and brightly coloured for a variety of nutrients. Choose wholegrains, oily fish, eggs, as well as herbs and spices especially garlic, turmeric, and ginger. Kimchi, Live yoghurt and Kefir are great immune supporting foods. Herbal tea could include Green Tea, Yogi Immune, or Pukka Elderberry and Echinacea. My go to supplement are A.Vogel Echinaforce alongside Natures Aid Immune Support, which has a lovely combination of Garlic, vitamin D, C, and Zinc and is a one a day formula. Between the two I feel well protected. You might prefer Salus Haus Immune Support, this is a liquid with natural fruit, vegetables, and herbs. These work together naturally to support your immunity naturally. To top up on Vitamin D try one of the BetterYou Oral Vitamin D Sprays. For children from 6 months, Natures Aid Immune Plus Oral Drops combining Elderberry extract, helps support immunity. Stress and the quality of your sleep will all have an impact on how efficient your immune system will be. It is difficult to avoid feeling stress, every day brings all sorts of challenges so if you are under a lot of pressure I would

start by supporting your nervous system. This could include meditation, relaxation, or deep breathing. Higher Nature Balance for Nerves is one of our customer’s favourite remedies to help aid relaxation and reduce stress. It’s a lovely combination of Magnesium, Passionflower, and B Vitamins. For a better night’s sleep herbal teas are a great place to start. My favourite is Pukka Night. Or you might like our latest addition to support healthy sleep; Biocare Sleep Nutripowder, this contains magnesium glycinate, lemon balm, L-Theanine and Montmorency Cherry in a powder form. It might be worth a try. With improvements in sleep, you could see improvements in all areas of your health. Let us help be you prepared for winter.

Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 | Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part? WEEK 191

"Am I going in the right direction"

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

News By Linda Hourani The Kyiv Independent I’m Linda Hourani, an investigative reporter at the Kyiv Independent. Today, I want to take you through one day in my life in Kyiv. It was supposed to be a normal office day for me, researching for an investigative story. But amid Russia’s daily drone and missile barrages, the word “normal” has taken on a new meaning for Ukrainians. In the past few months, Russian attacks on Kyiv and other cities have intensified. Unlike the nightly drone and missile attacks Ukrainians had grown used to, these new attack waves stretch throughout the whole day. They have become a constant companion, following us through our commutes, meetings and everyday routines. That morning a loud explosion outside around 6 a.m. first woke me up. A Russian jet-powered drone had hit somewhere in Kyiv. I reached for my phone and checked in which district the explosion had happened. As it was nowhere near me or my family’s home, I went back to sleep. By the time I woke up again and got ready for the office, our work chat was filling up with reports of isolated strikes across Kyiv and photos of distant smoke. I was about to head out when my roommate called, her voice tense. “Linda, are you okay? I’m reading about live attacks in our area.” She told me to leave the house as quickly as I could. We both laughed nervously — the kind of confused laughter we have learned to use for releasing some of the stress. A few minutes later, I heard a deafening strike that sounded close. I checked my phone for more incoming drones, then photographed the rising smoke and sent it to the news team. As the reporter closest to the impact, I was assigned to cover the attack on the area surrounding Kyiv’s central railway station. I had to stay put until the alert was over, then head there. While waiting for it, I felt restless and headed to the cafe down the street. It was unexpectedly crowded. I waited for my turn, watch-

Ukraine at war: A day in the life of a reporter in Kyiv

ing the barista work on an oat milk cappuccino, when another blast sounded from outside. Then another. The street rumbled with the sounds of an attack, including the familiar bursts of airdefence fire. Inside the cafe, the barista

didn’t even flinch. I thought of how quickly a scene like this had become unremarkable. I grabbed my coffee and headed to the basement shelter. After the attack had finished, I set out to the site, following the rising smoke.

A few blocks away from Kyiv’s central railway station, I saw rescue workers fighting a fire inside a historic market that Russia had struck. As I reached the scene, our video creator Nastia Kasinchuk joined me. We interviewed locals and recorded a video

about the attack for our social media coverage. That morning, a series of deadly Russian drone strikes on Kyiv killed two people and injured at least 43 others, damaging railway infrastructure, business centres and residential buildings.

As I was speaking on camera, another air-raid alert went off, meaning we had to stop and move to a shelter. The rescue workers also paused their work and moved to a safe distance — a precaution in case of a double-tap strike. We finished our reporting with almost half the day still ahead of us. At first, I felt fine. I thought this attack had taken less of an emotional toll on me than previous ones, where I had covered residential buildings with entire floors burned out. At least nobody lived in that market building. But it did get to me later that day. After finishing the interviews and transcribing comments at a nearby cafe, I tried to continue with my original assignment for the day. I had urgent messages to answer about the investigation I was working on, but whatever energy had carried me through the morning had disappeared. A strong headache forced me to spend most of the evening in bed. This wasn’t the first time an attack had affected me this way. I have learned that exhaustion can sometimes come after the reporting is finished, when calm settles in. The war affects everyone differently, but perhaps one thing we all share is the need for some sense of predictability. We establish new routines, adapt to alerts, and figure out when to shelter and when to go back to work safely. Russia’s constant drone attacks make even that more difficult, as the jet-powered drones are getting faster, circling the city for hours and striking repeatedly throughout the day. There is less and less to hold on to for understanding where the next attack might come from and when it might strike. Still, the next morning, you wake up, check your phone, get dressed, go to work, grab a coffee. You learn to fit the war around your life’s schedule — until the next explosion reminds you that it is always there. This is part of what reporting from Ukraine looks like today. Our journalists document Russia’s attacks as they happen, often while experiencing them ourselves. If you value having reporters on the ground in Ukraine, you can help support our work.

A 1% wealth tax would bring in €9.3bn a year A 1% tax on all household wealth in Ireland would generate around €9.3bn a year, the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) has found. Wealth taxes are not currently high on the political agenda in Ireland, not least because the Exchequer here is producing consistent surpluses. Spain is the only EU country

that applies a wealth tax. France replaced its wealth tax with a real estate tax. Norway and Switzerland, which are outside the EU, also have wealth taxes. In Britain, a so-called mansion tax on homes valued at £2m (€2.37m) or more is due to kick in from 2028 and there has been pressure to lower that price threshold.

In its research, the ESRI found the potential tax take from a broad wealth tax would be heavily skewed by housing. But the ESRI said a blanket tax on all household wealth is not a “realistic” option. Excluding people’s main residence from wealth tax calculations would cut the tax take in half to just over €4.4bn, if applied to all tax-

payers, the ESRI said. Limiting it only to those with very high incomes (of over €2m per year) could raise between €109m and €1bn, depending on whether their main residence, farm or other business income is included along with investment income, cars and other assets. The study found that even wealthy households could have trouble paying the tax

and said it could overlap with local property taxes. There are no plans to introduce a wealth tax in Ireland, but the Department of Finance had asked the ESRI to look at the issue given warnings from the State’s own budget watchdog and the 2022 Commission on Taxation and Welfare report that the Government relies too heavily on corporation

tax income. Budget 2027 reduced Capital Gains Tax by two percentage points to 31% (the first time it had been cut since 2012) and increased the inheritance tax thresholds. The Government also introduced a new low-tax investment account to encourage people to part with a high volume of savings sitting on deposit in Irish banks.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny launches a special Halloween night filled with thrills, chills and ales First ever Smithwick’s After Dark’ is launched and tickets now on sale

Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny is preparing for a spooktacular Halloween night with an exclusive ‘Smithwick’s After Dark’ event on Saturday, October 31. As darkness descends over medieval Kilkenny, visitors will step inside the historic home of Smithwick’s for a Halloween celebration inspired by Samhain, the ancient Celtic festival often associated with the origins of modern Halloween. For over 2,000 years, Samhain has held a

special place in the heart of Irish people, rooted in folklore and storytelling, Ignacio Peregrina, Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny Manager, said. The history-steeped brewery site in the heart of medieval Kilkenny and in the shadow of St Francis Abbey is the perfect venue for such a Halloween event, he said, and encouraged groups of friends, corporate groups and individual visitors to plan their costumes, book their places now and join in the celebrations. “At

Smithwick's, storytelling runs through every fibre of who we are. Our experienced storytellers are ready to regale visitors with haunting tales from Kilkenny’s past and stories connected to the historic St Francis Abbey Brewery. “As the stories unfold, visitors will enjoy live music, hearty seasonal bites, and a selection of Smithwick's favourites, all within one of Ireland's most distinctive historic venues. “Whether you're drawn by the traditions of Samhain, the stories of old Kilkenny, or simply looking for an unforgettable night out, we invite locals and visitors to Kilkenny to gather their friends and celebrate Halloween with us in the heart of the city. “We’re really looking forward to an incredible night in this unique, authentic and historysteeped location. Costumes are optional but strongly encouraged,” Ignacio said. • For bookings, log on to https://events. smithwicksexperience.com/selection/ti meslotpass?product Id=10229453585064

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Pay talks resume but households still suffer The public-sector strike is over for now. The proposed second day of action was suspended, and both sides are back at the Workplace Relations Commission. That is welcome, but it does little to ease the pressure on household bills. More than 300,000 public servants walked recently. Schools closed, hospital appointments were cancelled and people had to rearrange their day. The previous pay agreement expired in June. The Government set aside €1.2 billion in Budget 2027 for a new deal. The unions want more. The Taoiseach has said any agreement must be affordable and linked to productivity. The question is how far apart the two sides are, and who will carry the cost of a settlement. There is another financial pressure building, this time on the Government itself. The National Treasury Management Agency recently sold €1.25 billion of 10-year bonds

at a yield of about 3.5 per cent. It is the highest rate Ireland has paid for 10-year borrowing since early 2014, shortly after the country exited the bailout. Most people never look at a government bond yield. It still matters. When the State pays more to borrow, there is

less room for tax cuts, public services or further energy supports. Higher government borrowing costs can also influence the wider cost of borrowing, although mortgage rates depend on other factors too, including bank funding costs, competition and European Central Bank policy.

Families are already dealing with higher prices. September’s inflation rate was 4.1%, the highest since January 2024, with energy a major factor. Home heating oil has risen sharply. Diesel has been above €2 a litre in many places. Electricity and gas bills have been going

up. Against that backdrop, the tax-band changes in the Budget will be welcome, but a few hundred euro in extra take-home pay can disappear quickly when the oil tank needs filling, the car needs fuel and another electricity bill arrives. There are also signs that some households are beginning to struggle with their mortgage repayments. Early arrears figures published by the Central Bank this autumn showed more than 12,000 family-home mortgages falling one or two months behind. It is not 2008. It is still a warning. If the final pay deal costs considerably more than the €1.2 billion already set aside, the Government will have to explain how it intends to pay for it. Public servants face rising living costs too. But the more the Government spends on one commitment, the harder it becomes to find money for others. The bigger question is how

long higher government borrowing costs will last. Bond yields do not change household bills overnight, but they help shape the financial conditions in which the next Budget is drawn up, and future spending decisions are made. A 3.5 per cent rate on 10-year borrowing is not a crisis. It is, however, a different environment from the one that existed when many of today’s fixed-rate mortgages were agreed. Households cannot control government borrowing costs or the outcome of the pay talks. They can, though, check when their own fixed-rate mortgage expires, find out what rates are available and consider whether their budget could cope with higher repayments. The political argument will continue. The cost of borrowing is already higher, and that is worth keeping an eye on. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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News

McGuinness welcomes progress on Primary Care Centre projects in Carlow and Kilkenny but seeks further clarity on outstanding developments Progress is being made on several Primary Care Centre projects across Carlow and Kilkenny, according to local TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle John McGuinness. Updates have been received on developments in Ballyhale, Graiguenamanagh, Kilkenny City, Tullow and Urlingford. Deputy McGuinness particularly welcomed Ballyhale’s inclusion in the HSE Capital Plan for 2026, stressing the need for clear delivery timelines. He said improved primary care facilities would bring healthcare closer to communities, support medical professionals and help ease pressure on hospitals. Ballyhale: Design team appointment expected by year-end Deputy McGuinness welcomed Ballyhale’s inclusion in the HSE Capital Plan 2026, with a design team appointment expected before year-end. Preparatory work on an investment report is progressing, while he continues seeking clear timelines for the proposed healthcare facility expansion.

Graiguenamanagh: Planning permission received At Graiguenamanagh, planning permission was received in June 2026. Legal work has commenced, and engagement with the developer is now under way. Deputy McGuinness welcomed this progress, noting that the focus must now be on advancing the necessary arrangements to bring the project closer to delivery. Kilkenny City: Hebron Road project under review The proposed Primary Care Centre at Hebron Road remains under review. Deputy McGuinness is seeking clarity from the HSE on progressing the project, highlighting the growing demand for improved healthcare facilities across Kilkenny City. Tullow: Engagement with developer has commenced Planning permission for Tullow was granted in June 2026. Deputy McGuinness welcomed progress, urging continued engagement with developers and clearer timelines to ensure timely project delivery.

Urlingford: HSE review of future requirements The HSE has completed upgrades at Castlecomer, Clogh, Johnstown and Urlingford Health Centres. Deputy McGuinness welcomed the improvements but urged a thorough assessment of Urlingford’s future healthcare needs before deciding whether a dedicated Primary Care Centre is required. Continued pressure for delivery Deputy McGuinness welcomed progress on primary care developments in Graiguenamanagh, Tullow and Ballyhale, while calling for clearer timelines on outstanding projects. He pledged continued engagement with the Minister for Health and HSE to ensure communities across Carlow and Kilkenny receive modern, accessible healthcare facilities that meet their growing needs.

McGuinness welcomes 2027 funding commitment for Men’s and Women’s Sheds but seeks clarity for Carlow and Kilkenny groups Carlow-Kilkenny TD says local Sheds need certainty over running costs and a simpler funding process Carlow-Kilkenny TD and Leas Ceann Comhairle John McGuinness has welcomed confirmation that dedicated funding will be available to support Men’s and Women’s Sheds in 2027, while calling for clarity on how that funding will be distributed to local groups. Minister Jerry Buttimer has confirmed funding for Men’s and Women’s Sheds next year, acknowledging concerns over complicated distribution arrangements. Deputy John McGuinness welcomed the commitment but stressed the need for a simpler funding process and greater certainty for local groups. “Men’s and

Women’s Sheds play an important role in communities throughout Carlow and Kilkenny. They bring people together, provide opportunities to develop new skills, encourage social interaction and give members a place where they can contribute to their communities. “These groups depend on the commitment of volunteers, but they also face unavoidable costs. Rent, insurance, electricity, heating and the maintenance of premises all place demands on limited resources. “Securing funding for 2027 is a positive development. The next step must be to ensure that local Sheds understand what support will be available, when it will be delivered and how they can access it.” Deputy McGuinness said the Minister’s acknowledgement of the difficulties associated with the existing funding arrangements was particularly important. “Small community organisations should not have to spend excessive time navigating complicated

funding procedures when their priority is to keep their doors open and provide a service to their members. “We need a funding model that is transparent, straightforward and accessible, particularly for volunteer-led groups that may not have the administrative resources available to larger organisations. “I would also like to see clarity on whether a predictable annual grant towards essential running costs can be established, giving individual Sheds greater certainty when planning their activities and managing their finances.” Deputy McGuinness welcomed confirmation that proposals from the Irish Men’s Sheds Association and Women’s Sheds of Ireland are being considered. He stressed the importance of involving representative organisations in future funding arrangements, recognising volunteers’ contributions and ensuring timely financial support. He pledged to seek further clarity on how the 2027 funding commitment will benefit individual Sheds across Carlow and Kilkenny.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Smithwick’s Brewery

Homecare team benefit, of Smithwick’s remembere Smithwick’s Brewery is probably the best known, and most spoken of workplace in Kilkenny. And for good reason. The history of the site, and the founding of the Abbey are just two good reasons that the place is so popular. Add in the wonderful staff, and you have the contents of a bestseller book.

Photo taken in the early ‘60’s when the first Smithwick’s “Beer for export” left the Kilkenny Depot, bound for New York. All men in the photo were hurlers. From Left: Noel Skehan ( Kilkenny) P.J Garvan ( Kilkenny) , Podge Keogh ( Wexford ) John Lyons ( Cork) and John Meagher ( Kilkenny). The truck was a Commer TS3.1 and supplied by Renehan’s Garage Kilkenny. Load Checked out by Patrick Cahill

The staff came from all corners of Kilkenny and indeed Ireland. For me, at least, when you think of Smithwick’s Brewery, the first thing that comes to mind is fun. Whether you met the staff at a dance, in a pub, or at a hurling match, you can be sure of a laugh. Banter flowed easily and always in good taste. It would be fair to say, the the ‘Brewery gang’ were sound. As far as sports was concerned , Smithwicks Brewery was well represented. Areas such as Hurling, squash, golf, handball, badminton to name but a few. The brewery also had a fair share of ambassadors in the world of the arts also. And for anyone fundraising, Smithwicks was always good for sponsoring local events. Pensioners And although it is closed for nigh on 13 years , the pensioners from the ‘ale house are still very

active. Many actually meet every Thursday to reminisce, have a laugh, play a game of darts, and of course drink a few ales. Recently there was a reunion of Smithwick's pensioners organised by Gerry Massey, Robert Murphy & Martin Condren (all former employees). Gerry takes up the story. “ We always admired the people at the Brewery. From the time I started in 1981 there was always a great bond there. It was a different era I suppose, but people always looked out for each other.” Gerry went on to say that if you had a job, you counted yourself lucky and because of that whenever there was a collection for a special cause or a charity no one was found wanting. Gerry quoted older people on the street when he was growing up : we haven’t much, but what we have we’ll share. “Working at the Brewery, you would have heard all the stories about different Eddie Guilfoyle, Eugene Orr and Con Moore

John Kennedy, Paddy Meighan and Seamus Walsh

Jack McEvoy, Eddie McEvoy, Jim Wall and Michael Wall

Angela Lalor and John Neary

Shane Hayes and Pat Murphy

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Smithwick’s Brewery

as workforce red Presentation of cheque for €3,280 to Leslie Moynan representing the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare team from Gerry Massey and Eamonn Corcoran

The Butchers Dozen

Kinsella’s Butchers Dozen for Graiguenamanagh

British Army paratroopers shot 26 unarmed Catholic civilians during a civil rights march against internment without trial. Thirteen people died immediately, and another died later from his injuries

Pictured are Robert Murphy (the last Operations Director of Smithwick's brewery) and Michael Cantwell, one of the long service employees in the history of the brewery

Home Care team, Leslie Moynan thanked the Smithwick’s committee for the generous donation. Speaking to members of the organising committee, Mr Moynan said that “donations such as yours, allow us to continue our work in Carlow and Kilkenny”

people working there, both management and staff” said Gerry. “We thought it would be a good idea that those people be remembered”, continued Mr Massey. And so, they decided to have a reunion with the central theme being the unveiling of a plaque honouring the countless generations of men and women who worked in Smithwick’s Brewery across its long 303 year history, shaping one of Kilkenny’s most enduring traditions. The plaque now sits proudly in the bar area of The Smithwick’s Brewery Visitor centre. Every pensioner attending the reunion donated €25, and what was really pleasant (but not surprising) was that there were many pensioners who couldn't attend, but insisted on making the donation. A total of €3,280 was raised which was donated to the Carlow Kilkenny Homecare team. Accepting the cheque on behalf of the Maureen Oakes, Jim Dollard and Martin Condren

Thanks Gerry acknowledged the support of Colin O’Brien, Global Head of Beer Supply in Diageo. Colin also worked in Smithwick’s and spent several years there is the early stages his career. Gerry also acknowledged the great sponsorship of Robert Murphy, Head of Baileys Operations, as without this the event could not have. Also, Eamonn Corcoran who gave freely of his time in supporting and coordinating collecting all the donations. According to Joseph O Carroll’s book’ Historic Kilkenny ( 1978) the monks had been brewing ale since the 14th century, and a commercial brewery — Smithwick's — was established to brew Irish red ale in 1710. A lot of good men and women have passed through those gates and it is only fitting that they be remembered. This recently erected plaque does just that. If only you could bottle it. Which is how it all started really!

Director, Geoff Rose

Paul Clifford

Blending poetry, politics, oral history and mass murder, Thomas Kinsella’s epic poem, ‘The Butchers Dozen’, was written in response to the Widgery report, into the unlawful killing of thirteen innocent civilians on Sunday January 30 1972. This date would become known as Bloody Sunday. ‘Playactin theatre company’ will give a rehearsed reading at 8p.m. of the poem in Abbey Lane, Graiguenamanagh, on Friday October 30 at 8p.m. Readers will include: Paul Clifford, Cathal McFarlane, and Sé Nicholson. The reading is adapted and directed by Geoff Rose. There will also be a reading at The Neighbourhood hall, on The Butts Green on Friday October 23rd at 7p.m. Testimony Following the reading, poet Derval Tubridy will read from her new award winning pamphlet ‘I will say that’, which outlines testimony given from women who were present on Bloody Sunday. Derval Tubridy is an Irish poet whose work responds to the intimate traces that bind and blind. Drawing on contemporary events and contested histories, her poems seek to situate the self within those networks that explore just how we live, and why we love. Born in Bandon, Co. Cork and now based in Dublin, she is a 2026 Irish Writer’s Centre National Mentoring Programme Awardee. Winner of the 2026 The Poetry Business International Poetry Competition, her debut pamphlet ‘I Will Say That, published by Smith|Doorstop in 2026. Her poetry has been published in The North, The Stinging Fly, Howl, The Irish Times, The Stony Thursday Poetry Book, The Monster’s Back, Southward and is forthcoming with Banshee. The evening is free and is presented by Poetry Ireland and hosted by Poetry by the Barrow. Further information from: 087 7476955.

John Dowling & Ann Lannon

Sé Nicholson

Cathal McFarlane

Poet, Dervla Tubridy

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Revisiting a Halloween night of terror Some things you never forget – like the Halloween night I spent in jail. In a penitentiary to be precise. Little did I know when boarding a flight for New York that I, my wife and two daughters, would end up in the penitentiary in Philadelphia! Not bad enough that my wife had some of her cosmetics confiscated (potential bomb materials, you understand) but we end up behind bars into the bargain. “During the time you spend here, it is important for you to discover not only why you got into trouble but what changes you can make within yourself that will enable you to live a relatively happy and constructive life in the future”. So read the first paragraph of my ‘Handbook For Inmates’. We didn’t get into trouble, of course. God knows we’re a fairly good-living, decent up-right family. Nor could we blame the authorities for our “plight”. No, sir. We had

only our American friends, and hosts, to blame. Old friends they say are best. They are. But they’re also full of surprises. Glad to be away from New York and the mayhem of Manhattan, we were looking forward to a relaxing Halloween evening in the home of our friends in the quaint town of Newtown, a 30 minute drive from Philadelphia. No such luck. Instead, thanks to our good friends,

we found ourselves outside the Eastern State Penitentiary of Philadelphia – pictured, and now a derelict world of crumbling cell blocks – for a night of ‘Terror Behind The Walls’. The most terrifying part of this night, however, was the massive numbers outside the walls, queuing and pushing and jostling to get in to this real prison ranked 6th Best Haunted ‘House”’in the United States.

The Eastern State penitentiary of Philadelphia opened in 1828 and closed in 1971 after 142 years in service. The original seven cell blocks radiated like the spokes of a wheel and it had running water and central heating before the White House. Its vaulted sky-lit cells held many of America’s most notorious criminals, including bank robber ‘Slick Willie’ Sutton and perhaps the most famous, or infamous, of them all, one Al Capone. The Eastern State Penitentiary of Philadelphia was the world’s first true penitentiary in that it was a prison designed, not just to punish, but to inspire penitence, or true regret, in the hearts of criminals. The only regret in my heart this Halloween night is the teeming queue of teenagers, many appropriately attired and masked for the occasion, lining the pavements.

Noisy and boisterous I felt quite uncomfortable amid this mass of hyped-up, hormonal sea of bodies. Luckily for us our friends knew a friend who slipped us some VIP passes which allowed us to skip the interminable queue. Equally terrifying, however, was actually skipping the queue. Were they hisses I heard as we scampered along trying not to look conspicuous. CONSPICIOUS! There’s a queue a mile long and here’s my wife, two daughters, two friends and myself, skipping blithely – I don‘t think – by. And then the fun and games started in the Eastern State Penitentiary of Philadelphia. From every nook and cranny of this maze-like, menacing prison we were accosted by ‘prison wardens”’and “‘nmates’. When we weren’t being accosted and verbally abused we were “set upon” and startled by ghoul-like, ghastly creatures. The constant dark-

ness, dampness and knowing you were fumbling through real-life prison corridors and cells made the experience all the more authentic and eerie. Three-D glasses made our careful, cautious treading through the laboratory and the morgue all the more gruesome while our tiny, hand-held torches merely pinpointed our presence for more ghoulish assaults and heartstopping sudden apparitions. Shrieks, screeches and screams were the currency of the night – mostly from me, the head of our family, who led our cowering, hunched-up, bunch of six into each chilly corridor and cob-webbed cell, and paid the price i.e. a near coronary around every corner. The bright lights of Philadelphia were a welcome sight after our ‘Night Of Terror’ behind the walls of the Eastern State Penitentiary, the 6th ‘Best Haunted House’ in the USA.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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News

Kilkenny Night Time Economy initiative and Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce launch ‘Light Up, Light Up’ 2026 campaign In advance of the winter season and the darker nights ahead, Kilkenny Night Time Economy Initiative and Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce have again teamed up to announce a ‘Light Up, Light Up’ campaign, aimed at enhancing safety and fostering a sense of community in Kilkenny City Centre. This initiative is a key aspect of a wider Safe & Sound campaign for Kilkenny City, which forms part of Kilkenny County Council’s Night Time Economy Strategy. The campaign is a direct response to public feedback around promoting safety initiatives that will enhance the night time experience in Kilkenny City for visitors and residents alike. Feargus Dunne, Kilkenny City’s Night Time Advisor commented, “We are happy to support ‘Light Up, Light Up’ again for 2026. Safety is a key pillar of the Kilkenny City Night Time Economy action plan, and this simple initiative brightens our public streetscapes, by incentivising businesses in the city centre to leave at least one light on in their shopfront during night hours. In doing

so, we are all contributing to making the city feel even more welcoming, for locals and visitors who are working, socialising, or exercising on our streets over the winter months.” Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce President, Claire McInerney Brown added, “We at Kilkenny Chamber are really pleased to again support the ‘Light Up, Light Up’ this winter. The business community in Kilkenny is actively involved in ensuring we offer a friendly and safe experience for all visitors to the city, and this scheme will be a simple but useful enhancement at nighttime in this regard.” Running from late October 2026 to late January 2027, the ‘Light Up, Light Up’ campaign calls on city centre businesses to keep a light on until 1 am over the winter period. Recognising the importance of sustainability, the campaign encourages the use of energyefficient lighting. Many businesses now use LED lights, which are both cost-effective and environmentally friendly. City centre businesses can contribute by keeping just one

single shopfront or light on, to help light up the streets whilst maintaining lower energy consumption and being mindful of biodiversity considerations in the city. How to Get Involved: Businesses interested in participating must complete a registration form and return it to Kilkenny Chamber. This form can be obtained by calling 089 2553585 or emailing info@kilkennychamber.ie . Participants must commit to leaving a light on in their storefronts during the winter period. In order to support the additional energy costs that this could add to businesses, a limited number of participating businesses will be offered a subsidy of €200 (including VAT) through Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce. The campaign also encourages participants to share photos of their illuminated businesses on social media, tagging Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce using the hashtags #LightUpLightUpKK, #NTEKilkenny

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Opinion

Choices Shape Your Future By Judith Ashton

When science changes what we believe “Follow the science!” Wasn’t that the global mantra during Covid? Constantly on TV, and blasted all over social media? Science, if you think about it, evolves through thorough scrutiny, constant questioning and challenges. What might have once been accepted as fact can change. At one time people believed unequivocally that the Earth was flat and the centre of the universe, until challenged by Galileo. He was considered a heretic and sentenced to life house arrest. He died at home in 1642. It can be dangerous to challenge established thinking! He was later hailed as a genius. We grew up seeing the Food Pyramid on classroom walls, and it was treated as gospel: We were told to eat fats, meat and cheese sparingly, while making carbohydrates such as grains, starches, cereals and bread the bulk of our diet. Low-fat everything, all profitably refined and

processed, was big news and we all tucked in! Over time, low-fat diets and products such as low-fat spreads have fallen out of favour as new-generation scientists concluded that they did not improve our health and may have contributed to a range of medical problems. A growing amount of research now debunks the original food pyramid and goes as far as to indicate that it was grossly flawed. Scientists linked the high rates of heart disease in Western countries to fat-rich diets. However, blaming fats alone ignored other factors in Western lifestyles, including sugar, processed and fast foods, inactivity, smoking, overeating and the resultant obesity. Fat as a causal factor doesn’t add up when looking at Mediterranean diets, which include a lot of fatty fish and olive oils. Follow the money... the

big industrial, multinational food corporations had vested interests in that original food pyramid and marketed “fat-free”, “low-fat” and “% fat” as “healthy” options. Not natural... ultra-processed and very profitable! Real butter was the deadly enemy; the new Food Pyramid, which is probably nowadays in every classroom, tells us 70% of our calories should come from fat from natural, healthy sources e.g. olive oil, butter, avocados, oily fish, eggs and coconut are all top of the pops at the moment. Carbohydrates should come sparingly from bread and cereals, but more from leafy greens, low-carb vegetables, nuts and seeds, and low-carb fruits and berries. These are good fibrous foods which are good for gut health. Look around the supermarkets these days, everything has “Protein Rich” or “High Fibre” blazoned

across the packaging. It’s all advertising and marketing. Cottage cheese has always been full of protein, but it wasn’t a fashionable marketing tag. Now it is. There was actually very little science behind the former food pyramid, but it was widely adhered to by all first-world countries. These countries are now seriously suffering from epidemics of obesity, diabetes, cancers, and many physical and mental health crises. Solution? Great news for big pharma! Enter weight-loss drugs... Ta! Da! Millions of people now take relatively new anti-obesity drugs, and Denmark’s entire economy is benefiting from the success of Novo Nordisk and Wegovy. On September 22, The Mail on Sunday reported: “Last year the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency recorded 82 fatalities involving

GLP-1, of which 22 were reported in connection with weight management. In the same year 18,046 adverse reactions were reported for semaglutide, of which 1,765 were serious.” According to Prof. Donal O’Shea, the HSE’s lead for obesity, Irish figures are usually 10% of UK figures. Big demands result in a highly profitable black market. The precise amount of illegal weight-loss drugs in Ireland is unknown, but health authorities recorded 14,000 illicit online purchases in 2025 (no medical appointment or prescription necessary). The list of side effects from weight-loss drugs grows with time, including gastrointestinal issues, nausea, constipation, bloating, stomach pain, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, dry mouth, pancreatitis, gallbladder issues,

gastroparesis, thyroid issues, muscle mass loss, possible blindness and unplanned pregnancies! Every drug has side effects. Drugs must be rigorously tried and tested at scale over a very long period. Properly prescribed and carefully monitored, weight-loss drugs are life-savers for many people with diabetes, hypertension and obesity, but they can be lifedestroyers if used casually e.g. pre-wedding “bridal shed”. Be wary of mantras like: “Follow the science”. We need to be so careful. Research trials need to be long-term and extensive, without bowing to pressure or profits. Remember: What was gospel yesterday may be debunked tomorrow. Science evolves. Our bodies are miraculous and should be treated naturally and respectfully. We are, after all, Naked Apes!

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Flynn Hotel Collection takes home 11 awards at Irish Hotel Awards

Newpark named Best Family Friendly Hotel in Ireland and The Old Ground named Best Local Hotel in Ireland, as colleagues across the collection receive national and regional recognition The family-owned Flynn Hotel Collection is celebrating the success of its three hotels at the 2026 Irish Hotel Awards on Monday, 19 October, with national honours for Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny and The Old Ground Hotel in Ennis, alongside individual awards recognising colleagues across the collection. Newpark Hotel was named Best Family Friendly Hotel in Ireland, while The Old Ground Hotel received the award for Best Local Hotel in Ireland. The Park Hotel in Dungarvan was Highly Commended in the Best Self Catering category, with three members of its management team also taking home regional awards. Founded by Niall and Dottie Flynn over 65 years ago in the spirit of “Let our Family Look After Yours”, the collection is now managed by their sons, John, Allen and Pierce. The awards reflect that family ethos, recognising both

the welcome guests receive and the people whose work shapes each stay. For Newpark Hotel, the Best Family Friendly Hotel in Ireland award celebrates a property where generations of families have come to spend time together. Set across 25 acres of parkland close to Kilkenny city centre,

the hotel combines family accommodation, an adult only floor with hot tub suites, wedding and conference facilities and wellness and leisure amenities. Outdoors on the grounds of the hotel, Jurassic Newpark captivates and entertains with a dinosaur themed park, featuring giant animatronic dinosaurs,

a wildlife farm, fairy trail, adventure castle playground, inflatable bounce park ‘Jurassic Bounce’, dino themed rides, a train and live performances in the dino den theatre. Outdoor adventures at Jurassic Newpark make the stay enjoyable and memorable for the whole family, with seasonal events and new additions giving reasons to keep coming back. The awards assessor particularly praised the team’s thoughtful approach to families, from staff engaging directly with children to making mealtimes easy for parents. Small touches, including cookies and milk in reception at night, were also singled out as helping to make the stay special. The Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, won Best Local Hotel in Ireland, while The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, was Highly Commended for Best Self Catering, recognising their exceptional hospitality and guest experiences.

At Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny, the team got a significant recognition headed up by Mark Flynn and Niall Dunne who were recognised as Best General Managers in Leinster. Meanwhile Marketing Manager Philip Kelly, MIHI, received Best Marketing Manager in Leinster and People and Culture Manager Mary O’Neill was named Best HR Manager in the region. Revenue Manager Elaine Scott won Best Revenue Manager in Leinster and Events Sales Manager Gill Long received the national award for Best Events Manager in Ireland. At The Park Hotel in Dungarvan, Declan Moriarty was named Best General Manager in Munster, while Louise Young received Best HR Manager in Munster and Catherine Russell was named Best Accommodation Manager in Munster. Together, the individual awards reflect the range of work involved in running

the hotels, from preparing bedrooms and planning special occasions to supporting colleagues and welcoming guests. John Flynn of the Flynn Hotel Collection said: “Our parents founded the collection with a simple idea: ‘Let our Family Look After Yours’. That spirit lives on today throughout each hotel, brought to life by our dedicated and passionate teams, in how they care for guests and how they support one another. We are very proud of our winners and everyone working alongside them. It is particularly special to see both our hotels and our people recognised.” The Irish Hotel Awards recognise hospitality excellence, celebrating outstanding guest experiences. The Flynn Hotel Collection champions quality service, sustainability, employee wellbeing and strong community connections. For further information, visit flynnhotels.com.

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News

Young entrepreneur Oisín puts local GAA pride on a keyring A young Bennettsbridge entrepreneur is combining creativity, technology and support for local GAA clubs with his own range of personally designed, 3D-printed keyrings. Oisín O’Sullivan, aged 12, is a sixth-class pupil in Mr McDonald’s class at Bennettsbridge National School. His startup enterprise, OisinPrintz, creates keyrings for local

GAA clubs, giving supporters a new way to carry their club colours. Ahead of this week’s senior county final, Oisín has produced Tullaroan GAA and Ballyhale GAA keyrings. The Tullaroan designs are available at Delaney’s, while Ballyhale supporters can pick up theirs at Car-

roll’s in Knocktopher. The Ballyhale keyring has received an endorsement from Kilkenny and Ballyhale hurling great TJ Reid — an exciting boost for the young designer. The enterprise also offers clubs an opportunity to

raise funds. A portion of the proceeds is given to the clubs, meaning the keyrings can form part of club fundraising initiatives while helping supporters show their colours. Oisín has also created Graiguenamanagh GAA keyrings ahead of the junior final, which are available at Fairview Daybreak.

Supporters can see his designs and work on TikTok at @ oisinprintz. Clubs interested in their own personally designed keyrings or exploring a fundraising initiative can contact Oisín at oisinprintz@ gmail.com

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Opinion

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

The Kilkenny Heritage Walkers honoured a very special woman on Saturday. Bridget Woods (nee Corcoran) who was born in 1879 and died in 1965, never sought attention or glory, but her life exemplified a rare devotion to the county’s sporting heritage. The walkers gathered at her graveside to pay homage, and the tributes were heartfelt. We’ve heard and read about the great hurlers who achieved stardom, at local, county or national level. But their success, public and recognized- is not the full story. Behind the visible and mighty Clash of the Ash in this county, there were sights and sounds heard by few… the squelching of cloth being pressed and squeezed, and the tumble of water into a tin bathtub. For more than 50 years, Bridget Woods washed, cleaned and darned the jerseys of hurlers at her Green Street home. In those far-off days, when the spin drier we take for granted was unheard of, Bridget had a cast-iron mangle, one of the few in the area. She spent hours at a time washing the hurling garb and running it though the two rollers on their sturdy frame. (I include two pictures of a mangle in use.) Week after week, in all weathers, she ensured that the players looked their best… even if their jerseys would soon be back on her doorstep for another wash. The public well knew and appreciated the talent on the pitch, as did local media. But they didn’t see Bridget working late into the night amid piles of sweaty, mud-caked, and bloodstained apparel. After the excitement of a game, when the roar of the fans had abated, and they headed home or to the pubs she was the one who set about restoring the colour and insignia to cloth smudged in the fray. Bridget’s story is one that might have receded into the mists of time but for the mindfulness of a woman living in Galway. Her mother, Kathleen Moore nee Maher (1942-2024) knew Bridget well when she lived in the same street as her in Kilkenny. The woman contacted Seamus Reade, secretary of the Kilkenny GAA County Board, telling him Bridget’s story, and asking if something could be done to improve the condition of her grave. Kathleen Maher recalled Bridget Woods as a kindly woman, affectionately known to the Maher children as “Gaggy.” Bridget’s marriage was childless, but she looked after Kathleen’s children for a period. It was after Bridget’s husband died at a young age, that she started on the jerseys, most likely at some point in

Honouring Bridget Woods… Heritage Group pays tribute at the grave of Bridget Woods

A woman operating a mangle

the 1930s. Kathleen Maher remembered her as someone who embodied community spirit at its finest, but especially for her tireless devotion to a demanding and sometimes gruelling task that, even in those tough times, people found daunting.

Pushing clothes through the rollers of a mangle

After every game, the bundle of knitted sports clothing…begrimed and bloodied…would arrive at her house. For hours she’d wash, press, and flatten, until every jersey was in tiptop condition, ready for another Gaelic Athletic Showdown. She’d mend tears to the mate-

rial and once washing was complete the darning would start. And it wasn’t the lightweight jerseys of this century that she had to contend with. They were thick and heavy long-sleeved ones, resistant to washing. Just turning the hanThe Nore at Greensbridge

dle to get the fabric through would strike people today as a forbidding chore, but Bridget took it in her stride. She was never known to complain. When the weather wasn’t suitable for outdoor drying, she dried the jerseys by a big open fire. She drew knowledge and insight from her work. She had listeners enthralled when she rattled off the names of all the players, which she knew by the numbers on their jerseys, and she could divine how a match had gone, and who had got the worst of the roughand-tumble on the pitch by the state of the knitted cloth. Like a mystic, she could hold up a jersey and tell the story of a game without having setting foot on the pitch. When she wasn’t working you might see her standing outside her front

door, awaiting news of the latest match. When she was finished with the jerseys, she placed them in a leather bag for collection. Being a devout woman, she included a bottle of holy water with them, invoking God’s blessing on the lads, to keep them safe as they did their county or district proud. An abiding memory of Kathleen Maher was of rescuers taking Bridget from a top storey window of her house into a boat during the 1947 flood. The major weather event brought out the best in the people of Green Street, and other parts of Kilkenny. The flood came in March after heavy snowfall nationwide that had persisted since late January. A warm spell started the thaw, which came too quickly for the country, and especially the rivers, to cope with. The Nore was no exception. It rose to unprecedented levels. Many people had to be rescued from their houses and the boats, some towed by tractors, took them to safety. The boats had to avoid sheep and cattle swimming down Green Street, borne by the raging current. Elsewhere in the city people mourned the loss of the Suspension Bridge at Talbot’s Inch, a legacy of the great philanthropist, Lady Desart In Green Street, Bridget Woods was, initially, as shellshocked as anyone by nature’s onslaught; but she didn’t panic. After seeing to her own house, she assisted neighbours, helping with clean-ups, and consoling where she could. She was soon back to looking after the jerseys and keeping up to speed on the hurling scene. The gathering on Saturday at Brigid’s grave in St. Kieran’s cemetery heard glowing tributes to her. Marianne Kelly, on behalf of the Heritage Walker’s group, expressed the hope that Bridget would be honoured as “a quiet legend of Kilkenny’s sporting culture” and thanked those who had played a role in preserving her memory, in particular the Maher family and Ita Purcell of Greensbridge. She had strong words of praise for the Kilkenny County Board of the GAA and its secretary, Seamus Reade. Seamus had seen to it that Bridget’s grave, where her brother Denis is also buried, was given a long overdue clean up. It had become overgrown with weeds, the inscription on the headstone had faded almost to illegibility, and the stones were sinking. On Saturday, its appearance was a credit to those who cared enough to intervene, as was the fine restoration work by Gargan’s of Friary Street. Warm autumn sunshine favoured the gathering. It cast a gentle glow over Bridget’s resting place as the walkers dispersed. “She deserves to be remembered”, one man opined. Several heads nodded in agreement.

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Come along and celebrate the best of local business at the Local Enterprise Office and Network Ireland Kilkenny Showcase on Saturday, 24th October, from 10am to 4pm! Discover fantastic products, meet inspiring local businesswomen and enjoy a wonderful shopping experience.

PLUS

enter our competition to win a fabulous Taste of Kilkenny hamper!

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Shop local and win a

Taste of Kilkenny Hamper

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LET OUR READERS KNOW ABOUT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESS: NEWS, LAUNCHES OR EVENTS ACROSS HEALTH & BEAUTY? CONTACT: FEATURESEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Health & Beauty

Talking openly about pelvic floor health BEAUTY Mint MediSpa on Patrick Street, Kilkenny, has launched BTL Mint, a new suite of six non-surgical treatments covering skin, body and wellbeing concerns. We asked manager Diane O’Neill about the treatments, including an option for pelvic floor health, and what clients can expect. Why is pelvic floor health something you particularly wanted to address? It doesn’t get talked about nearly enough. Many women experience bladder leakage when laughing, coughing, sneezing or exercising, particularly after childbirth or during menopause. Some simply accept it as part of life. We want people to feel com-

fortable discussing these concerns. Men can experience pelvic floor problems too. What does the Emsella treatment involve? You sit fully clothed on a specially designed chair for approximately 28 minutes. Electromagnetic technology stimulates pelvic floor muscle contractions. Most people describe a tingling sensation rather than pain, and there’s no downtime. We generally recommend six sessions over three weeks, with improvements developing gradually. What other treatments are included in BTL Mint? Emsculpt Neo combines muscle stimulation and radiofrequency to target muscle tone and fat in specific areas.

Anete Lusina

SKINCARE

Lymphastim uses compression to support circulation and lymphatic flow, particularly for tired or heavy legs. For facial concerns, Emfusion focuses on skin hydration, Emface targets facial muscle tone and firmness, while Exion uses radiofrequency technology for skin tightening and texture. There’s also a microneedling option for concerns such as scarring. What concerns are people most commonly coming to you with? For the face, it’s often fine lines, loss of firmness, dullness or changes in texture. With body treatments, people may want to improve muscle definition despite exercising regularly. We’re also seeing interest in treatments focused

on wellbeing rather than appearance. How do you establish what’s suitable for someone? We start with a consultation, discussing their concerns, health history and expectations. For facial treatments, we can also use OBSERV skin analysis. The important thing is giving people the opportunity to ask questions before deciding.

As temperatures drop and the heating goes on, our skin can start to feel the effects. Here are three ways to bring some much-needed comfort to your beauty routine. Autumn is a lovely season for cosy evenings, woolly jumpers and warming cups of tea. Unfortunately, the cooler weather isn’t always quite so kind to our skin. Dryness, tightness and irritation can become more noticeable as temperatures change, making October a good time to rethink our skincare habits. From an indulgent body butter to a specialist serum and an overnight hand treatment, these three products are designed with autumn skincare in mind.

A little luxury for your body

Health note: Anyone experiencing bladder leakage or pelvic floor problems should consult their GP or a pelvic health physiotherapist for an assessment and advice on appropriate treatment options. For more information contact Mint MediSpa: 056 771 2579.

Exercise gap linked to income

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a rich body cream after a warm shower, and Ciroa Dulce De Vita Body Butter, 265g (€12.99) brings a touch of indulgence to the everyday routine. With a delicious-sounding combination of caramel, macadamia and sandalwood, it’s made for anyone who enjoys warmer, sweeter fragrances. The formula contains shea butter, glycerin and vitamin E, ingredients commonly used in moisturising products to help soften and nourish the skin. Ciroa also offers a coordinating shower gel and body scrub for those who enjoy a longer pampering session. Available from McCabes Pharmacy, McCauleys, Chemist Warehouse and other selected pharmacies.

FITNESS People on the lowest incomes in Ireland are more than three times as likely to rarely exercise as those earning the most, according to new figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). The CSO’s 2025 Health and Lifestyle survey, published last week, reveals a striking gap in exercise habits between richer and poorer households. Almost four in 10 people (39.6 percent) in the lowestincome group said they exercised less than once a week or never. Among those in the highest-income group, the figure was just 11.5 percent. Among people on low incomes who also struggle to afford basic essentials, 43.2 percent exercised less than once a week or never, compared with 24.5 percent of those not in that situation. Across Ireland as a whole,

Autumn skin SOS

Comfort for sensitive skin Omar Ramadan

just over one in four people aged 16 and over (25.2 percent) reported exercising less than once a week or never, a slight increase from 24.8 percent in 2022. Meanwhile, the proportion exercising daily rose from

28.7 percent to 32.1 percent over the same period. The survey measured participation in sport, fitness and recreational activities lasting at least 10 minutes. It didn’t capture all physical activity, such as movement during

work. While the findings don’t explain why people on lower incomes are less likely to exercise regularly, they raise questions about the affordability and accessibility of opportunities to stay active.

If your skin tends to react when the seasons change, Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Serum, 50ml (€78) could be worth looking at. This lightweight face and body serum is designed to support the skin’s moisture barrier while helping to relieve sensations of tightness, itching and stinging. It absorbs quickly and can be used whenever skin needs additional comfort, or alongside Dermalogica Stabilizing Repair Cream. Available from dermalogica.ie, flagship locations and authorised retailers.

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Motors

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Motors

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News

Kilkenny Stars shine across busy weekend U11 Girls who played against Old Leighlin and Portlaoise on the day

It was a very busy weekend all round for the Kilkenny Stars teams. Our CluneTech Kilkenny Stars National League team came up just short in Galway who scored a basket with 4 seconds left to snatch the lead and ultimately win the game. The Ladies had been down as much as 20 points in the game after a slow start and came back to take the lead in the 4th quarter in the final stages. However, it wasn't to be for them and they now set their sights on Tolka Rovers who are next up. The U15 boys made it 2 from 2 wins to go top of the table with a victory in Enniscorthy following on from a hard fought win on the road at Waterford Vikings.

Our U14 Boys kicked off their campaigns with our Black and Orange squads playing each other with the Black squad coming out on top. Our young Mens team kicked off their campaign against last years champions and found out what it is like playing Division One basketball. Coach Jason Barry can take some positives from the game as they move on to face New Ross Sparks in their next fixture. The Under 11 Boys & Girls stole the show this weekend in their blitzes hosted in Tramore and Kilkenny respectively. Fantastic performances were put in by both teams and they both had lots of fun as they start off on their basketball journeys with the club.

Dáil hears call for moratorium on new wind farms until planning guidelines are updated Sinn Féin TD for Carlow and Kilkenny, Natasha Newsome Drennan, has called for a moratorium on new wind farms until planning guidelines are updated to reflect the current height and size of modern turbines. Speaking in the Dáil today, Deputy Newsome Drennan highlighted that it has been 20 years since the planning guidelines for wind turbines were last updated, during which time turbines have doubled in height. “These planning guidelines are outdated and simply not fit for the current height and size of modern wind turbines.” “We consistently see planning regulations for housing, roads

and public spaces updated to ensure they are fit for purpose. Why, then, are we seeing such a double standard when it comes to wind turbines?” she said. The Sinn Féin TD

expressed serious concern at the impact on communities across Kilkenny and Carlow, including areas like Inistioge, Old Leighlin, Castlebanny. “It is not right that private developers are allowed to exploit outdated guidelines to line their pockets at the expense of the community, and at the expense of the taxpayer through curtailment payments,” she said. Deputy Newsome Drennan said she, along with so many across Kilkenny and Carlow, wants to see a moratorium on new wind farms until these planning guidelines are updated to reflect present-day wind turbines. She called on the Government to stop stalling and publish the updated regulations.

Carlow and Kilkenny Local Enterprise Offices host 20th National Women’s Enterprise Day More than 100 people came together at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel in Carlow today for National Women’s Enterprise Day (NWED), co-hosted by the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) in Carlow and Kilkenny. This year marked the 20th NWED event. Eleven speakers took part across three panels. The first panel discussed lessons learned from local businesswomen, the second brought expert advice on sales, marketing, finance and technology, and the third looked at how to make the most of local networks and financial supports. Business owners from both counties shared the stage, including Denise Walsh of Curly Co, Laura Mullin of The Old Post Office and Brigid Walsh of Solar Precision. Joining them with specialist advice were Maeve Gallagher of Google, Rosemary Ward of Propellor BIC, Ruth Larkin of Lark Bridal and Mary Hayden, of Hayden Business and Operations. Local business networks and the LEO were also represented. Norah Ryan, President of County Carlow Chamber of Commerce, spoke alongside Claire McInerney Browne, President of the Kilkenny Chamber of Commerce, Lucie Dowling, President of Network Ireland Kilkenny Branch, and Aisling

From left to right, Ruth Scott, Nora Ryan, Lucie Dowling, Aisling Carey and Claire Mclerney Brown

From Left to right: Mary Hayden, Claire Mclerney Brown, Lucie Dowling and Aileen McGrath

Carey, Business Advisor with Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny. Attendees also received information about the supports, mentoring and programmes available through their own Local Enterprise Office.

Reflecting on the event, Minister Jennifer Murnane O'Connor TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health with special responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing and the National Drugs Strategy noted

“Twenty years of National Women’s Enterprise Day says a lot about the women who have built businesses in Carlow and Kilkenny. The Government is encouraging more women to start businesses and, just as importantly, to grow them. For a lot of those businesses, the first real support comes from the Local Enterprise Office in their own county. If you are a woman thinking about starting out, or wondering what comes next, I would encourage you to make that call. The contacts that are made on days like today can help sustain you and your business for years.” Aileen McGrath, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny, said: “When we ask

business owners what helped them most in the early years, the answer is very often a person. It might be a mentor, or another owner who was a few years ahead of them. Today was about making those introductions, and we want them to last beyond the day. Between our offices in Carlow and Kilkenny there is a suite of supports and a number of networks available, and anyone who spoke to us today can follow up with us directly.” For further information on supports available from Kilkenny County Council’s Local Enterprise Office, please contact info@leo. kilkennycoco.ie or call (056) 7752662.

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Homes & Gardens

Layer your lighting HOME HACK cottonbro studio

174 Kilkenny homes restored through grants

PROPERTY

As the evenings get darker, it’s worth looking at how you light each room. A single overhead light may be practical, but it can leave a room looking flat and create shadows where you need to see clearly. The idea behind layered lighting is to combine three types of light: ambient, task and accent. Ambient lighting provides general illumination, usually from ceiling or wall fittings. Task lighting is more focused, such as a reading lamp beside the sofa or under-cabinet lights over a kitchen worktop. Accent lighting draws attention to particular areas or features. A small lamp on a bookshelf, for example, can illuminate an otherwise dark corner. For living rooms and bedrooms, choose warm-white bulbs, ideally around 2,700K. Cooler white light is often better suited to areas where detailed work takes place. Put lamps on separate switches so you can control the lighting according to how the room is being used.

Grow your own garlic GARDEN NOTE

Skyler Ewing

October and November are the best months to plant garlic, giving the bulbs time to establish roots before winter and produce a crop next summer. Garlic is easy to grow and doesn’t need much space. Choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil, as bulbs can rot if left sitting in wet ground over winter. Buy seed garlic from a garden centre rather than using supermarket bulbs, which may not be suitable for growing in Irish conditions. Break each bulb into individual cloves, keeping the papery skin intact. Plant them pointed end up, about 5cm deep and 15cm apart, with 30cm between rows. Garlic also grows well in deep containers, provided there are plenty of drainage holes. Little attention is needed over winter, although it’s worth keeping the area free of weeds. The bulbs should be ready to harvest around June or July, when the lower leaves begin to turn yellow.

A total of 174 previously vacant or derelict properties in County Kilkenny have been brought back into residential use with the help of almost €10 million in government grants. New figures from the Department of Housing show that €9.84 million has been paid out locally under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant since the scheme was introduced in 2022. Kilkenny County Council has received 474 applications during that period, with 366 approved. Between July and September this year, a further 12 properties were brought back into use in Kilkenny, with €719,057 paid out in grants. During the same three months, the council received 38 new applications and approved 30. The scheme provides financial support to people renovating vacant and derelict properties for residential use. Grants are paid following completion of eligible refurbishment work. The latest figures show a difference between the number of approved applications and completed projects, although the Department has not provided details of how many are currently undergoing renovation or awaiting completion. Nationally, 7,162 vacant and derelict properties have been returned to residential use through the scheme, supported by more than €396 million in funding. Almost 20,000 applications

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have been submitted across the country, with 15,380 approved since 2022. A further 809 homes were completed between July and September this year. Donegal has recorded the highest number of completed properties, at 600, followed by Dublin City with 554 and Cork County with 547.

Housing Minister James Browne welcomed the national figures, saying the scheme was helping to bring much-needed homes back into use while revitalising towns and villages. The Department also reported growing interest in the newer Vacant Above the Shop Grant, which aims to

turn unused space above commercial premises into homes. There have been 78 applications nationally since its launch earlier this year. In Kilkenny, two applications have been submitted under the initiative, although neither had been approved by the end of September.

Call for more community gardens GARDENING A nationwide campaign is encouraging more communities to establish shared gardens and allotments, giving residents somewhere to grow their own food. National Community Gardens and Allotments Week, which ran from October 10-17, was organised by Community Gardens Ireland under the theme ‘Let’s Keep Growing: A Garden in Every Community’. The voluntary organisation says shared growing spaces allow people to grow fruit and vegetables, learn gardening skills and meet neighbours, while also providing habitats

for wildlife. The campaign was launched in Limerick, where more than 60 community growers signed up for a gathering to discuss developing and maintaining local gardens. Kilkenny already has examples of what can be achieved. At Thomastown Community Allotments, a project completed last year included improvements to growing beds using recycled timber, a new workbench and pergola, and planting to attract pollinators. In Callan, the Threefold Community at Westcourt installed a polytunnel to support year-round organic vegetable growing. Both projects received fund-

Jan Wright

ing through Kilkenny County Council’s Community Climate Action Programme. The council’s development plan also commits to supporting and facilitating allotments, recognising their contribution to healthy lifestyles, biodiversity and local food production.

For residents without a garden of their own, an allotment or shared growing space can provide an opportunity to grow vegetables and learn from other gardeners. Community Gardens Ireland maintains an online directory of growing groups at cgireland.org.

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Food & Drink

Pumpkin, Red Onion and Feta Tart RECIPE

The rising price of eating out

Ani Hadushaj

FOOD

Pumpkins are everywhere at this time of year, although most end up carved into lanterns rather than cooked for dinner. With National Pumpkin Day falling on Monday, October 26, it’s worth remembering that pumpkin is a useful ingredient in its own right, particularly when roasted. Its slightly sweet flavour goes well with salty cheeses, onions and herbs, making it a good choice for savoury dishes. This pumpkin, red onion and feta tart is easy to put together using ready-made puff pastry. It’s lovely served warm for lunch or a light evening meal, with a green salad on the side. Serves: 4 Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 40–50 minutes Ingredients • 400g pumpkin, peeled, deseeded and cut into small cubes • 1 red onion, cut into wedges • 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (approximately 320g) • 100g feta cheese, crumbled • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves • 1 egg, beaten • Salt and black pepper Method 1. Heat the oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Place the pumpkin and red onion on a baking tray, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle over the thyme. Season with a little salt and black pepper. 2. Roast for 20–25 minutes, turning once, until the pumpkin is tender and starting to brown around the edges. 3. Unroll the puff pastry onto a lined baking tray. Lightly score a border about 2cm from the edge, taking care not to cut right through the pastry. 4. Spoon the roasted pumpkin and onion onto the pastry, keeping within the border. Crumble the feta over the top. 5. Brush the pastry edges with beaten egg and return to the oven for 20–25 minutes, until the pastry is golden and crisp. 6. Leave to stand for a few minutes before cutting into slices. A handy tip: Smaller pumpkins grown for cooking generally have better flavour than the large varieties sold for Halloween carving. If you can’t find a suitable pumpkin, butternut squash works just as well. You can also add a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds before serving for a little crunch.

Eating out is something most of us enjoy, whether it’s Sunday lunch with the family, a birthday celebration or simply a night off from cooking. But with restaurant prices continuing to rise, are people starting to think twice before heading out for a meal? New figures highlighted in Bord Bia’s October foodservice newsletter show that restaurant menu prices have gone up by around 4.4 percent over the past year, even though the rate of increase in supermarket prices has slowed. The figures, from industry analysts Meaningful Vision, show that prices in casual din-

ing restaurants and fast-food outlets rose by around 3.6 percent, while coffee shops saw a smaller increase of 2.8 percent. For people across Kilkenny, the rising cost of eating out may mean being a bit more selective about how often they go and where they choose to eat. Even a meal for two can add up quickly once drinks, desserts and perhaps a couple of coffees are included. But it’s not just customers who are feeling the pinch. Restaurant owners are also struggling with rising costs. Higher wages, electricity bills, rents and other day-to-day expenses mean many businesses have little choice but to put

up their prices if they want to keep going. Even the return of the reduced 9 percent hospitality VAT rate in July hasn’t solved all their problems. It’s a difficult situation for restaurants. They need to keep prices reasonable enough to attract customers, while also bringing in enough money to cover their costs. That’s particularly important for restaurants and cafés in Kilkenny city and the surrounding towns. As well as giving locals and visitors somewhere to eat, these businesses provide jobs and support local farmers, food producers and suppliers. And with household budgets

still under pressure, people understandably want to feel they’re getting good value for their money when they do decide to eat out. Good food, friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere still make a meal out something to look forward to, but price is becoming an increasingly important part of the decision. Nobody wants a visit to their favourite local restaurant to become something they can only afford on birthdays or special occasions. The hope is that Kilkenny’s restaurants and cafés can continue to offer good food at prices customers are happy to pay, while still making enough to keep their doors open.

Mark Moriarty serves up Everyday Delicious COOKBOOK Award-winning Irish chef Mark Moriarty is back with a new cookbook, Everyday Delicious, published by Gill Books this month. Best known for his TV series Off Duty Chef and Cook Like a Chef, Mark has built a reputation for making restaurantquality cooking more accessible to home cooks. His latest book takes that approach a step further, concentrating on food that can be prepared without spending hours in the kitchen or relying on complicated ingredients. Featuring 100 recipes, Everyday Delicious covers everything from quick midweek dinners to more leisurely weekend meals, along with breakfasts and desserts. Among the dishes are a hearty Tuscan ribollita soup and an apple and blackberry crumble with spiced Chantilly cream, showing how fa-

miliar ingredients can be put to good use with a few extra touches. Mark also shares practical advice picked up during his years working in professional kitchens, including how to manage heat, season food properly and get the best results from everyday ingredients. The Dublin-based chef began working in kitchens at just 16 and went on to train in Michelin-starred restaurants. He was named San Pellegrino World Young Chef of the Year in 2015 and is now a regular food columnist with The Irish Times. Everyday Delicious is his third cookbook, following Flavour, which won the An Post Irish Cookbook of the Year award, and the bestselling Season. The new book places the emphasis firmly on recipes designed for ordinary home kitchens, with readily available ingredients and methods.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA CLUB LOTTO The results of the lotto draw for 13th October were a little disappointing as there was no jackpot winner. the numbers drawn were 4, 13 and 22. Which didn’t seem to be of much help. We have had two winners in a row and now two no wins in a row. Please try harder people. However, it was happy times for €30 Lucky Dip winners Lily Kinsella, Mary Ryan, Marian Breen, Mairead Hoyne and Thomas Armitage. Thanks to all for supporting our Lotto. CONCERT Mike Denver and Philomena Begley will be giving it loads on December 3rd. in St. Mary’s Cathedral. Tickets on sale from committee members or online - https://sl1nk.com/getyourtickets Funds go to our Development Fund. Please share information or share our social media posts. Spread the word! IT’S TEA PARTY TIME! Save the date for the annual Camogie American Tea Party on November 6th., this gets better each year. Host a table or join a table but don’t miss it. More info to follow or enquiries to Eamonn Dunne, 087 922 7890. MEETING All Members are invited to a club Meeting on 30th Oct at 20.00 in the Club House, to discuss the Club Development Plans and Grant Applications. Hope to see you there. COUNTY CHAMPIONS The Clara U14 girls claimed the Roinn A county camogie championship on Saturday morning on the Kells Road by overcoming a game Barrow Rangers outfit. On a beautiful sunny Autumn morning and in front of a bumper attendance the Clara girls produced a superb display of honest endeavour to deservedly take the spoils. But huge credit must also go to the Paulstown/Goresbridge girls who pushed them all the way and made this game a super spectacle of all that is good about the game of hurling. Clara got the perfect start when Emer O Callaghan forced home a scrambled goal in the first minute. This helped settle nerves and put Clara into a lead they would never relinquish. Sadhb Tuite replied with the first of her four first half points for the Rangers, but Tara Boyd (a free) and Emer O Callaghan extended Clara’s lead. Remarkably these were Clara’s only two scorers over the hour and even more remarkably Barrow Rangers also had just two scorers, with centre back Sadbh Tuite contributing nine of her side’s 10 points and Emmie Jacob also notching a first half point. Midway through the half Emer O Callaghan broke free to bury her second goal and this helped the Clara girls into a 2-4 to 0-5 halftime lead. Sadbh Tuite converted a 45 to open the second half scoring before Emer O Callaghan completed her hat trick of goals. A surging solo run saw her initial goal bound effort blocked but the ball broke kindly for her, and she let fly off the ground and connected

The victorious Clara U14 Roinn A camogie team.

O’Loughlin Gaels, winners of the Under 16 E Camogie Championship.

beautifully to crash the sliotar to the roof of the net. The significance of this score became apparent as the half wore on because the Rangers totally dominated the next 15 minutes. But resolute Clara defence limited them to 3 converted frees although they also hit a number of wides. They also had a piledriver of a free blocked on the goal line. Then Clara were awarded a penalty and Tara Boyd wisely took the point. A further free was converted by Emer O Callaghan and the crisis was over. All Barrow Rangers could manage in the remaining time was a converted free. They will regret the 7 wides they shot over the hour. Clara had just one wide in each half. And as they say goals win matches and Clara scored three of them while a mean Clara defence didn’t yield any. This was a masterclass by the Clara girls. Their work rate was relentless, and their scoring efficiency was top notch. They had heroes all over the field and their management team of Bill O Keeffe, Moira Treacy, Ed Mulrooney, Shane O Regan, Michael Fitzgerald and Denis O Callaghan must have been delighted with their charges. A word of thanks too to referee Julian O Dwyer who did a fine job. Team - Sarah Mulrooney, Ella Carrigan, Róisín Moseley, Ella Croke. Orla O Keeffe, Laura Fitzgerald Capt., Abbie Carrigan. Lydia Phelan, Tara Boyd 0-4, 0-2f, 0-1p. Tilly O Regan, Jessica Shannon, Grace Scanlon. Katie Shortt, Emer O Callaghan 3-2, 0-1f, Pearl Treacy. Subs used Louise Moseley, Orla Tierney, Anna Galvin, Maeve Hoyne. Also, Mary Kate Curran, Rachel Comerford, Ava Kehoe Hanson, Grace Mannion, Christine Comerford, Brid Moylan, Kate Kennedy. O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

CAMOGIE SUCCESSES Last week was a successful one for O’Loughlin Gaels camogie teams as both the Minors and the Under 16’s won county titles. The Under 16 team beat Young Irelands by 4-7 to 0-3 in the final of the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Under 16 E Camogie Championship played in St. John’s Park. The team was Pippa Gault, Chiara Di Florio, Sophia O’Dwyer, Rachel Kavanagh, Sadie Kinchella, Ruby Hogan, Sarah Ryan, Clara Cooney, Liadan Blanche (Captain), Willow Carter, Millie Lennon, Millie Hendra, Hayley Hawe, Emily Knox, Emelie Waters. Substitutes: Ava McGuirk, Ruth O’Brien, Ellie McGuinness, Aine Morgan, Kaysie O’Neill Rodgers, Melissa Martins, Millie Carter, Kate Skehan, Emma Glynn. The coaches were Mark Kavanagh, Michael Collins, Ollie Carter, Austin Cooney, Henry Roberts, Aine Ryan, Dave McGuirk and Stephen Hogan. It was a case of home venue also for the minor team’s win, by 5-9 to 1-4, over Barrow Rangers in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Minor B Shield competition on. The team was Amber Hegarty, Julia Adamczyk, Sophie Wall, Ellen Crawley, Aoibhe Quinn, Ruth Crowley, Elizabeth Sida, Muireann Greene, Faye Brett, Anna Ryan, Stephanie Cooney, Sophia O’Dwyer, Clara Cooney, Liadan Blanche, Emily Knox, Willow Carter, Ava Butler, Aoife Dillion (Captain), Lily Kinchella, Lucy Hegarty, Sarah Johnston, Eve Kinchella, Eabha Hanrahan, Grace Roberts, Chloe Collins, Lauren Daly. Congratulations to both teams on their achievements and a sincere thank you to all the coaches, mentors, parents, volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped throughout the year. VOLUNTEER NIGHT There was a large attendance at O’Loughlin Gaels

annual Volunteer Night, which was held in the clubhouse. The night is held to show the club’s appreciation of the contribution made by its members to the running of the club. Without the work of these volunteers the club would not exist, and this night is a recognition of this. It proved a most enjoyable social event for all. CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated October 13th. The numbers drawn were 5, 6, 19 and 20. The bonus number was 21. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Michael c/o P Leydon. 2. Evelyn Bollard c/o B Maher. 3. Damien O’Connell. 4. Spud Murphy c/o D O’Driscoll. 5. Ciaran Goulding c/o D O’Driscoll. 6. Niall Minogue c/o P Carroll. 7. Ber Cahill c/o M Nolan. 8. Evan Walsh c/o Online. 9. Pat Little c/o Online. 10. Barry Power c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support. HANDBALL WINNER Congratulations to O’Loughlin’s Handball player Mikey Power who, representing Kilkenny and partnered by Jake O’Neill from Kells, had a great win in the All Ireland Minor Hardball Doubles in Croke Park last weekend, beating Cork 21-17, 21-5 in the final. It was Kilkenny’s second year in succession to win this national title as O’Loughlin’s Sean Morrissey along with Andrew Brennan won it last year. A huge well done to Mikey from everyone in O’Loughlin Gaels. FRESHFORD Well done to local lad Patrick Rafter who has been performing in the Cerritos Centre in Los Angeles with the Royal Vienna Symphony Orchestra recently. Patrick is son of Paddy and Maura Rafter and is a well known musician and violinist. His next concert is in Jacob Music Centre in San Diego. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to David and Caroline Raggett, Boherfloss, Freshford and David’s family on the death last week of his father Michael Raggett late of Hugginstown. GAA St. Lachtains minor hurlers will play Glenmore in the in the Roinn C Championship semi final on Saturday next at 2.00pm in Inistioge. They overcame Mullinavat in the quarter final coming out deserving winners on a final score of st Lachtains 2-29 Mullinavat 0-11. The Philip Kinane Cup and Colin McGree Shield which are held each year in memory of the two young boys will commence on bank holiday Monday in Pairc Lachtain (see social media page for times of tournament and all matches) CHARITY FUNDRAISER Kilkenny GAA and Camogie club are running a charity exhibition with North v South hurling and Camogie matches on Oct 31st at Nowlan Park. St Lachtains will be represented by one player on each team. TIME TO STRIKE A BLOW A new Community Group has been formed to keep North Kilkenny Free of Wind Turbines. There is currently an application submitted for the Gatabawn Wind Farm for 12 new turbines, some of which will

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Community & GAA Notes

O’Loughlin Gaels Minor B Shield competition inners.

be almost twice the height of the existing 4 turbines (Lisdowney Wind Farm). In pre-planning are further applications which potentially result in 89 Turbines in North Kilkenny, up to 175meters high. Please contact: info@notokilloshulanwindfarm.com for further information or if you would like to get involved. LOTTO There was no jackpot winner in the weekly lotto, so the jackpot goes unwon. The lucky dip winners were Cillian Grant (€50). Deirdre Dalton and Mick McCarthy. (€25 each). Tickets are €2 and can be purchased online on Clubzap or you can get your paper ticket from the ticket sellers and the club thank all for their continued support. If you’re not in you can’t win, simple. FOROIGE Freshford foroige youth club reopened recently after the summer break and are looking for adult volunteers. The club will meet each week which was usually Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm but have decided to alternate between Monday and Tuesday evenings from now until Christmas on a trial basis. The group caters for all 12-17 year olds and new members are very welcome. So, if you can’t make it on Mondays perhaps Tuesday might suit some better. For more information, please contact Aidan Gleason on 0860674485 or aidan. gleeson@foroige.ie or Barry Flynn on 087458115 SOCCER NEWS Freshford town junior side were in action on Sunday and were beaten by Clover Utd in their home league tie on a 2-1 scoreline. Jordan Burke scored for the home side Training takes place each Wednesday evening and new members are always welcome Anyone interested in signing up can come along to the training field or contact the club secretary or the manager. Meanwhile in the schoolboys/girls section the U14 girls had a 4-1 over East End with Siun McCarthy getting a hat trick and Katie Murphy getting the other goal. In the u12 SAFI Freshford Town lost out to St Leonard’s on a 3-2 scoreline with Robbie Geraghty getting the two goals for the Freshford side. ASTRO PITCH The astro turf pitch is now open for bookings through sportskey online portal or Contact committee member or social media page for more details. BRIDGE Summer bridge continues each Monday evening in Threecastles hall (R95WK45) at 7.30pm new members are always welcome. SPLIT THE POT Split the pot proceeds for the month of October is going to Freshford Foroige Group. The winner of last week’s draw was was Chloe Fox, Bohergloss, Woodview who won €169. Foroige is a voluntary group for young people between the age of 12-17 and they meet each week. You are asked to kindly support this cause throughout the month. Tickets are just €2 and can be purchased in any of the local pubs or businesses. PARISH NEWS Masses each Tuesday and Friday morning in St Lachtain’s church at 9.30am (unless otherwise stated) Mass on Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church every third Saturday evening. WEBCAM The mass webcam has been installed by Church

Media Ireland. All masses in at Lachtain’s church will be livestreamed through the webcam at Https// church media.ie/st-lachtains-church-frffreshford. OUTREACH CENTRE Cois Nore Outreach Centre visits Ballyragget every Wednesday. It’s located at Dr. Hogan’s rooms, The Square from 11am to 1pm. All those seeking cancer support are very welcome. For appointment phone 0874833941. RADIO If you wish to listen to live broadcast of mass on Tuesdays, Fridays or Sundays from Freshford Church you can tune in to 105fm on your radio. NEWSLETTER The parish newsletter is available every week and it is also on the website. Any anniversaries or parish office business or community notices for the parish newsletter can be done by phoning the office during horse of 9.30am to 1.30pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays or by calling to the office during those hours. MASS CARDS Mass Cards and Mass Bouquets are available in the Parish office and also from Annette at Tulla. VISITS Fr. Mark is happy to visit the sick and if you would like to receive a visit from Fr. Mark, you can contact him by phone or through the parish office. LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café is open Monday to Saturday, from 9.30am to 4pm, offering a warm welcome to everyone in the village. Whether you fancy a tasty homemade treat, a cup of coffee, or simply a friendly chat, why not call in, support your local café and catch up with friends and neighbours? The Loop is more than just a café, hosting a range of community activities that help bring people together and strengthen local connections. New faces are always welcome, both among customers and those willing to lend a helping hand. Volunteers are particularly welcome to help maintain and develop these valuable community services. If you would

like to get involved, please phone 056-883-2650 and ask for Rhiannon. MABS The Money Advice and Budgeting service is a free confidential and independent money Management and Advice service. MABS assist people in dealing with their existing debt problems who have difficulty paying a mortgage or those facing legal action because of debt. They also provide information and access to Insolvency services including free Debt Relief Advice under the Personal insolvency options. For more info or for an appointment contact MABS on 0818072610 JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB INTERMEDIATE HURLING FINAL Conditions were ideal in UPMC Nowlan Park on Sunday last for the much-anticipated meeting of James Stephens and Rower Inistioge in the Intermediate Hurling final. At stake was a much-coveted county title plus a return to the senior hurling ranks in 2027 for the victor. Referee Richie Holland threw in the ball to get the game under way and almost immediately the Rower registered their first point before Cian Kenny replied with one for the Village after 3 minutes. A further two points from the Rower and replies from Luke Scanlon (6th min) and Tadhg O’ Dwyer (10th min) had the scores level after 10 minutes of play. Two further points from the Rower by the 15th minute spurred the Village team into a strong period of dominance where they registered points from Ed Lauhoff (15th), a great strike from midfield, Cian Kenny (16th), Tadhg O’ Dwyer, frees (18th and 26th), Ed McDermott (20th), Eoin Guilfoyle (28th) and Sean Deely (30th). A single point from the Rower on 32 minutes left the half time score at James Stephens 0-10, Rower Inistioge 0-06. The second began smartly for the Village with Tadhg O’ Dwyer adding a point from play and one converted free to stretch the lead to 6 points. The Rower then began to dominate the exchanges adding

5 points by the 17th minute to a single score from Eoin Guilfoyle. With the score at 0-13 to 0-11 Willie Spencer replaced Stephen Manogue, Ed McDermott, who was having a great afternoon, added a point. Now entering the critical final 10 minutes and defending a 3 point lead, James Stephens introduced Niall Brassil for Sean Deely. The tension was rising as the Rower added 2 further points to narrow the gap to a single point with seven minutes, plus added time, remaining. Matty McWey replaced Luke Scanlon before Ed. McDermott rose high to catch and deliver another excellent point. A goal for either team would surely settle the day and that arrived in the 26th minute when Willie Spencer finished to the net following a goalmouth scramble. The tenacious Tadhg O’ Dwyer was fouled and added a pointed free to stretch the lead to 6 points with minutes remaining. The Rower were not finished and added points in the 29th, 30th and 32nd minutes before winning a free, close to goal, and a chance for a last gasp equaliser. The Village defence stood tall, as they had throughout the game, cleared the danger and rejoiced at the sound of the final whistle. A first Intermediate championship title for the club led to great on-field celebrations as Cian Kenny accepted the cup. While the forwards will always get the glory, the Village defence of Eoin Deely, Sam McEvoy, Dara Beehan, Niall Mullins, Cian Kenny and Oisin Bateman plus goalkeeper Sean Manogue were excellent throughout. In addition to those already mentioned, midfielder Conor Heffernan can be happy with his excellent contribution to this historic victory. Great credit is due to team management of Eoin Larkin, Jackie Tyrrell, Matthew Ruth and Fran Whelan who had the team in excellent condition. With a first-round Leinster Club fixture due in three weeks against Wexford champions let us hope that there is more to come for this team. JERSEY SPONSORSHIP Because of a clash of colours both the James Stephens and The Rower-Inistioge teams were obliged to line out in their alternative strips for Sunday’s Intermediate final. History informs us that James Stephens original jersey was a blue top with a white sash until 1924 when the club purchased a set of red and green jerseys, including a bag, from the Erin’s Own club (a city team) for the princely sum of 30 shillings. It’s also worth noting that Erins Own had won two Kilkenny senior hurling titles (1905 and 1909) and a junior title (1906) in those same colours. The alternative colours honour that memory as the jersey incorporates all four colours, blue, white, red and green. The new colours also brought a change of luck for the club as they went on to win the 1924 Kilkenny junior hurling championship for the first time beating Thomastown after a replay in St. James Park on 25th April 1925 in front of an attendance of 2,000. JUNIOR CAMOGIE Lining out on a frosty Sunday morning in Pairc Sheamuis Mhic Stiofan the clubs Junior “B” camogie team coasted to a facile 8-15 to 0-09 victory over a game St. Martins team in their Junior “C” championship quarter final fixture. The well drilled James Stephens line-up with a rock-solid defence, skilful midfield, talented forward line proved far superior for their opponents to handle. Feeding off an unforgiving back line the Village girls led by 0-05 to 0-03 at the 11th minute when fleet footed Roisin Leahy raced through the St. Martins defence to

2026 Intermediate Hurling Champions

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Community & GAA Notes register the team’s first goal. After dominant centre back Cady Boyle retired injured, centre forward Tara Maguire in the 15th minute finished a fumbled St. Martins clearance to the net. The goal rush continued when lively wing forward Emily Lauhoff finished a solo run to the net to give the Village girls an unassailable 3-07 to 0-04 lead. A brief fight back in the closing minutes of the half saw St. Martins knock over three points before Roisin Leahy and Jenna Larkin responded with a point each for a 3-09 to 0-08 half time lead for the home club. With St. Martins unable to mount a challenge throughout the 2nd half it was all one-way traffic as the Village girls laid siege on their opponent’s defence hitting them for five more green flag scores to send them comfortably through to the championship semifinals where they will be sure to encounter much stiffer opposition. Well done. BONUS BALL The October bonus ball number was 42. Congratulations to winners Majella Costello and Rhonda Grace Conroy who will each receive a cheque for €450 in the next few days. Our thanks to all for their continued support for this invaluable fundraiser. SYMPATHY Our sympathies are extended to the McCarthy family formerly of Corcoran Tce., Kells Road on the recent passing of Sean McCarthy in the UK. Sean emigrated to the UK almost 70 years ago but retained close contact with his brother Jim “Florrie” McCarthy, one of the few survivors of the club’s 1955 Kilkenny Junior championship winning team. Sean was also predeceased by his sister Mary McCarthy and his brothers Lou and Tom McCarthy both of whom wore the Village colours with distinction in the 1950’ and 60’s. Our sympathies are extended to Sean’s wife Janice, and her family. “Air dheis Dei go raibh a anam dilis” CRANNCHUR (LOTTO) Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite 7, 9, 12, 16. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir (No Winner). Na mion duaisneanna €40: Tom Leahy, Ang. Somers, P.J. McGrath. Eddie Kelly agus B.O’ Driscoll. Mar is gnath go raibh maith agaibh go leir as bhur dtachtaoicht. (As always, our thanks for your continued support)

East End U15s and supporters in Barcelona.

BENNETTSBRIDGE EAST END SOCCER East End United U15s spent an exciting weekend of football in Barcelona. On Saturday three games were played against Irish, English and Norwegian opposition, playing on a league basis. The lads competed at a state of the art football complex against three excellent teams representing Ireland, England and Norway. They gave it everything and did East End proud. The challenge continued as they took on Export Futbol Club in the D Finals semi-final. A special mention for James Tyrell, who scored his first-ever goal for East End United on the international stage. A massive thank you to all the travelling parents for their fantastic encouragement and support, both on and off the pitch throughout the trip. A special shout out to Ambrose Martin for flying the East End flag! They finished off the Football Cup Barcelona campaign with a glorious 2-0 win over Wayside Celtic, with James Tyrell on the scoresheet AGAIN!!!!! Cian Dowling put the icing on the cake!! It was a fantastic experience, and the boys were a credit to the club and their parents. Huge thanks have to go to Trish, Natasha, Damo and Anthony for spearheading such an incredible adventure for the boys. Thank you all for making it such a memorable experience for everyone involved! OUTREACH SERVICE The Cois Nore Cancer Support Outreach service is available weekly in Thomastown Community Hall on Thursday mornings from 11am to 1.00pm. October Schedule, Community Hall, 22nd October, Thomastown Library 29th October. November Schedule Community Hall 12th and 26th November, Thomastown Library 5th and 19th November. All services are free. LOTTO Again there was no winner of Jackpot last week. The numbers drawn were, 8, 9, 13, 21. The jackpot is still there to be won. Meanwhile Consolation Prizes went to David Dowling, Bennettsbridge, Gary and Eimear Tyrrell, ℅ R. Cody, Eamonn McEvoy, Bennettsbridge, Maria McGee, ℅ R. Comerford, Julie Drennan, Ballyhale. MUSICIANS NEEDED Gillian Grattan has been working on a film with the people of Bennettsbridge about life in the village. The title is “Bridging the Years,” and some incidental

East End U15s in Barcelona

music is needed for it. “We’d love it to come from the musicians in Bennettsbridge so if you play, sing, write, or compose, we’d love to hear from you! To get involved: If you have a recording, please send it to Gillian, at theatretada@gmail.com, along with your name and a little about what you play or have written. You can also find me at the community hall in Bennettsbridge on Tuesdays, where I teach drama after school! Please share this with any musicians you know. CHURCH NEWS October Stations are due now and can be handed in at masses. Thanks to all who have contributed so far. MASSES Wednesday 10.30am. Friday 10.30am. Sunday 10.30am. Tuesday 7,30pm. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm ART GROUP Date for your diary, the Christmas Art Fest is taking place on Sunday, 29th November. More details to follow. The Christmas Card Project is now in place with cards in the local shop. The cards feature some local scenes and are the work of the artists and some local photographers. A number of new scenes have been added to the large range available. Thanks to the local businesses who have been

stocking the cards for a good number of years, The Carlow Kilkenny Homecare team will share in the profits as usual. GAA Bennettsbridge minors will play Galmoy Windgap in the championship semi-final this Sunday at 10.30 with the venue to be confirmed. The under 16s will play their quarter final at home to Fenians/ Ballyragget on the weekend of October 31st. Best wishes to both teams and all support greatly appreciated. Good luck to all ‘Bridge players participating in county and college trials at present. NORTH VERSUS SOUTH FUNDRAISER Shane Byrne has been selected to represent the club in the upcoming North v South game on October 31st with proceeds going to Cois Nore, the Dillon Quirke foundation, Kilkenny GAA and Camogie. Donations are €10 with all monies over €500 raised returned to the club. Please support Shane who has been one of our most consistent hurlers over the past number of years. On the camogie side Holly Ryan and Erin Morrissey have been selected with the same format in place. All support will be greatly appreciated. SPLIT THE POT Well done to David Power (butcher) who won €94, Moria Hackett, €30 and Eamon Mcgrath, €20. Thanks again for your support.

SIGNAGE CAMPAIGN Bennettsbridge GAA Club’s pitch signage campaign is still open to local businesses and companies wishing to promote their products and services while supporting the club. The initiative provides an excellent opportunity for businesses to advertise their name to supporters and visitors attending matches and other events throughout the year. The club would like to sincerely thank all the business owners who have already supported the campaign and helped contribute to the continued development of the club and its facilities. There is still an opportunity to get involved, so any interested businesses are invited to contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey for further information. GRAIGUENAMANAGH NEEDLE FELTING CLASSES AT DUISKE COLLEGE Parents and guardians are invited to take part in a series of free dry needle felting classes at Duiske College this November. The classes will take place every Thursday from November 5th to 26th, running from 10am to 12 noon. These enjoyable and creative sessions offer a wonderful opportunity to learn a new craft, develop your artistic skills and spend a relaxing morning in friendly company. Whether you are completely new

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Community & GAA Notes to needle felting or simply looking to try something different, everyone is welcome to come along and get creative. Best of all, there is no cost to take part! Places should be reserved in advance. For further information or to book your place, please contact Teresa, HSCL, on 087 2916646. 25 YEARS OF GRAIGUENAMANAGH ROWING CLUB We’re celebrating 25 years on the water, and we’d love you to join us for a special evening to mark the occasion on Saturday, 14th November 2026 at 6:00 pm in Gowran Racecourse. Tickets cost €35 per person and include main course, dessert and tea/ coffee. Tickets can be purchased at training sessions, including Saturday mornings, with cash, Revolut and card payments accepted. Alternatively, message our Club PRO or President to arrange tickets. Past and present members, family and friends are all warmly welcome as we celebrate 25 years of memories, friendships and rowing. We hope to see you there. ABBEY HALL Come along to the Craft Market taking place on Sunday, October 25th, at the Abbey Hall, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny, from 10am to 4pm. It promises to be a wonderful opportunity to browse a fantastic selection of handmade items, unique gifts and locally created products, with something to suit all tastes. Visitors can explore stalls selling crafts, jewellery, artwork, bags, clothes and much more. Whether you are looking for a special gift or simply fancy a browse, there will be plenty to discover. Entry is just €2, with a raffle entry included, while children go free. Best of all, all proceeds will be donated to the PCRF, helping to support a worthy cause. Everyone is welcome, so bring along family and friends for a great day out! GAA Our very own Richard Foley will represent Graiguenamanagh at the “North v South” Fundraiser, lining out for the South at UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday 31st October alongside players from every club in Kilkenny. The day is in aid of Kilkenny GAA, Kilkenny Camogie, Cois Nore and the Dillon Quirke Foundation. The target is €500 and all funds raised in excess goes back to our club. In addition, every €10 donated will earn you an entry into a draw for one of four match jerseys. It was a great win for the club’s Junior Hurling team who defeated O’Loughlin Gaels to qualify for the County Final against Conahy Shamrocks. After an extraordinary season and some nail-biting fixtures, our Junior Hurlers have earned their place in the Kilkenny Junior Hurling Championship County Final, a moment that fills everyone connected with Graiguenamanagh GAA with immense pride. This achievement is particularly special as it marks the first time since 1972 that a Graiguenamanagh Junior hurling team has reached a County Final. For generations of players, supporters, volunteers and families, the club has been at the heart of our community. To have the opportunity to create a new chapter in our history and to follow in the footsteps of those who proudly wore the jersey before us is something we will cherish forever. All year, this group of players, together with their management and backroom team, have shown unwavering commitment, sacrifice and dedication. Countless hours of training, preparation and hard work have gone into reaching this stage. They have represented our Club with tremendous pride and have inspired our community every step of the way. Reaching a County Final is a tremendous achievement, but it also brings significant additional costs for the club. Match preparation, facilities, equipment, team expenses and the many logistical requirements associated with a County Final all place an added financial burden on the club. As a community-based and volunteer-led organisation, we are asking our members, supporters, former players, friends of the club and the wider Graiguenamanagh community to consider making a contribution towards these costs. There is absolutely no obligation to contribute. We fully appreciate the financial pressures that many individuals and families are currently facing, and we understand that not everyone is in a position to make a donation. Any contribution, no matter the amount, is entirely voluntary and will be sincerely appreciated. For those who can help, your support will go directly towards ensuring our players are given every opportunity to prepare for this historic occasion and towards helping Graiguenamanagh GAA meet the additional costs associated with reaching a

County Final. More than anything, this is a time for our community to come together. Whether you contribute, attend the match, help in any way you can, or simply cheer the team on from the sidelines, your support means the world to the players, and everyone involved with the club. Thank you for standing behind this team and for continuing to support Graignamanagh GAA. All of you have been with us on this journey and we look forward to sharing what promises to be a very special day in the history of our club with all of you. Graignamanagh GAA. Ní neart go cur le chéile. There is no strength without unity. TIDY TOWNS A huge thank you to Hugh Byrne who kindly offered to clean up the plaque and sand blast the pump free of charge on the Fair green. Bringing them both back to their former glory. We really appreciate the kind gesture. Thanks also to Sean Connolly for painting the pump. LOCALOTTO The numbers drawn were 5, 13,15,1. There was no winner of the jackpot. So, you all get to have another go next week. Consolation prizes of €30 went to Conor Bolger. Joey O’Hanrahan. Fran Doyle. Aileen Sheehy. Irene Cullen (online). HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC FAI Junior Cup Result, Highview Athletic A 3 Thomastown Utd A 1. Darragh Corcoran, Daniel Fitzgerald, Jack Walsh. A solid shift was put in under the lights in Harristown by our men’s A team. Up against a Thomastown United A a Premier Division side in the FAI junior cup, we went into the game knowing a good performance was needed to get a result. Young Darragh Corcoran opened the scoring after 15 mins with an absolute rocket into the left top corner from 20 yards to give us the lead. Thomastown kept knocking on the door, but we battled hard and went into the break 1-0 up. Knowing we had a tough half ahead of us we came out very positive, Thomastown grabbed an equaliser through Steven Connolly 8 mins into the second half, but we never dropped the heads. Loads of work and determination going forward from Murty and Dean Broaders after conceding led to Danny Fitz putting us back on the front foot and leading the game 2-1 by the 64th minute. Under a bit of pressure late on we broke forward and Jack Walsh put us 3-1 up and gave us a little more breathing room going in the final minutes of the game, other notable strong performances came from full backs Ryan Douglas and Darragh Corcoran as well as Gary McDonald and Mitchell Maher at centre half who each made goal saving blocks late on to keep us at 3-1 and come away with the result. GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN ACTIVE RETIREMENT Meetings and activities have resumed. The upcoming meetings are on Thursday 29th October at Paulstown Community Hall (R95 NY93). Dietitian, Michelle Kealy will give a talk on healthy eating from 7-8pm on Tuesday 20th October in Paulstown Community Hall. Giving us some helpful advice on what we eat and how to eat well for our futures. BARROW RANGERS There was no Match 3 or no overall winner for the lotto on 13th October. Greyhound Race nights on Friday 30th October at 8pm. Admission: €10. Cardiac screening will take place at the club on Saturday, 28th November 2026, from 9:30am–5:00pm. Open to adults, as well as anyone aged 12–17 years old. Participants aged 12–17 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost: €80 per person. Health insurance discounts may also apply. BRIDGE UNITED The Halloween Soccer Camp will take place at 10am-1pm on 27th-29th October for children aged 4-14. To register phone Conor 085 132 1589 or Ellen 083 432 1145. Congratulations to the Bridge players in a 4-2 win against St Fiaccs in The FAI Leinster Junior Cup last Sunday. CHURCH SERVICES AND PARISH EVENTS Mass Times Goresbridge: Saturday 7.30pm; Sunday at 10.00am. Paulstown: Sunday at 11.30am. Weekday Masses, Goresbridge: 10am on Wednesday. Tom Healy

Paulstown: Thursday, and Friday at 10.00am AG CAINT AS GAEILGE Is ciorcal comhrá Gaeilge é “Cúpla Focal” a chuirtear fáilte roimh chách ann, agus a bhíonn ar siúl gach Aoine i gCaifé an Goodly Barrow. Tugann an grúpa deis do dhaoine an Ghaeilge a labhairt i dtimpeallacht chairdiúil, shuaimhneach, cur lena muinín sa teanga agus bualadh le daoine eile a bhfuil suim acu sa Ghaeilge agus sa chultúr Gaelach. Tá fáilte roimh chách, idir thosaitheoirí iomlána agus chainteoirí líofa. Díríonn an grúpa ar chomhrá neamhfhoirmiúil, ar spreagadh agus ar fhoghlaim trí ghnáthchomhrá laethúil. Cibé acu atá tú ag iarraidh an Ghaeilge a d’fhoghlaim tú ar scoil a athbheochan, do líofacht a fheabhsú nó tráthnóna sóisialta a chaitheamh le Gaeilgeoirí eile, cuireann Cúpla Focal deis thaitneamhach agus thacúil ar fáil chun an Ghaeilge a úsáid go nádúrtha. TALKING THE TALK “Cúpla Focal” is a welcoming Irish language conversation circle held every Friday at the Goodly Barrow Cafe. The gathering provides a relaxed and friendly environment where people can practice speaking Irish, improve their confidence, and meet others with a shared interest in the language and culture. Open to everyone from complete beginners to fluent speakers, the group focuses on informal conversation, encouragement, and learning through everyday chat. Whether you want to revive your school Irish, sharpen your fluency, or simply enjoy a social evening with fellow Gaeilgeoirí, Cúpla Focal offers an enjoyable and supportive space to use the language in a natural way. GORESBRIDGE ONE-ACT DRAMA FESTIVAL This year’s festival continues to run on Friday and Saturday (23rd-24th) October in Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Nine drama groups will compete in two categories with three groups performing each evening showcasing the best of amateur drama in Ireland. Kilcumney Players will host the festival, and the Main Sponsor is Red Mills with further support from Goresbridge Credit Union and Goresbridge Horse Sales. The festival is part of the Drama League of Ireland circuit which runs every autumn and Goresbridge is one of 23 festivals around the country this year. Tickets are €15 for Adults and €10 for concessions. A season ticket (all 3 nights) costs €35 and a Friend’s Ticket (2 adults for all 3 nights) is €60. Tickets are available at the door. Note that Thursday and Friday sessions start at 8pm while Saturday starts at 7pm. MS DONOHOE The death has taken place of Joan Donohoe (nee Mahony) Ballyellen, Goresbridge, and formerly of Viper, Kells, Co. Kilkenny. Joan passed away peacefully on October 13th surrounded by her loving family in the care of the kind and dedicated staff of Borris Lodge Nursing Home. Devoted wife of the late Seán and beloved mother of Richard, Philip, Agnes, Jane and sister of Paddy and Kevin. Predeceased by her parents Philip and Agnes and her brothers Dick, Frank, Jim and Danno. SPLIT THE POT Support Goresbridge Rural Development by taking part in Split the Pot. Entries are available in Maher’s and online. Simply scan the QR code or visit lottoraiser.ie. TAR ISTEACH The Tar Isteach Shop, Goresbridge, welcomes donations of bric-a-brac, including household items, unwanted gifts, toiletry sets, delph, dishes, and cutlery. All donated items should be clean and in good saleable condition. Quality handbags are also greatly appreciated. KILMANAGH WEEKLY MASS SCHEDULE October 24th – Tulla. October 31st – Kilmanagh. November 7th – Killaloe. November 14th – Tulla. November 21st – Kilmanagh. November 28th – Killaloe. December 5th – Tulla. NAOMH AODHAN COMMUNITY HALL The committee of Naomh Aodhan Community Hall would like to thank Kilkenny LCDC (Local Community Development Committee) for providing the funding to help with the painting of the inside of the hall. TABLE QUIZ Kenya Immersion Table Quiz will take place in Ballycallan Hall on November 6th at 8 pm. This is in aid of our local students from Colaiste Abhainn Ri, Callan who are travelling to Kenya at Easter. Raffle and shop on the night. Teams of 4 - €20 per table. SOCCER RESULTS K & DL Division One – Ormondevilla 5 River Rangers 1

SOCCER FIXTURES Friday October 23rd: U18 Schoolgirls League – Highview Ath v River Rangers Saturday October 24th: U18 Schoolboys League – Thomastown Utd v River Rangers U15 Schoolboys League: Deen Celtic v River Rangers Sunday October 25th: K&DL Division One – Deen Celtic A v River Rangers A. K&DL Division Four – Ormonde Villa B v River Rangers B HALLOWEEN RAFFLE River Rangers Halloween Raffle draw will take place on Sunday, 1st November 2026, in Ryan’s Bar, Kilmanagh. Just €2 per line. Fantastic prizes to be won 1st Prize €250; 2nd Prize €150; 3rd Prize €50. Also vouchers and many more great prizes. Raffle tickets available from committee members. Tickets will also be available at Spar Callan on Saturday, 31st October, from 8am to 2pm. Pop over, grab your lines and support your local club. CALENDAR 2027 Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh will be producing their annual Calendar again for 2027. Your business or organisation can be included amongst the advertisements for only €70. Please support this annual fundraiser. The calendar is distributed, for free, widely amongst the locality, and is a great way to spread the word. For details talk to Chris Doheny on 086 251 7030 or Eileen Lanigan on 086 373 9983. CHRISTMAS ACORN Christmas Acorn 2026 will be available in early December. If you have any items, photographs, stories, parish events etc. that you would like entered in this year’s edition please send in as soon as possible to lanigan.eileen@gmail.com or contact 086 373 99 83 for further information. CHRISTMAS WREATH MAKING WORKSHOP Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies Group will once again host a Christmas Wreath Making workshop on Monday 30th November this year. This workshop is open to everyone; you do not have to be a member of the group to attend. All materials will be provided. There will also be mulled wine and festive nibbles available on the night. If you are interested in attending, please contact 086 373 9983 as numbers will be limited. HALLOWEEN DISCO Halloween Disco will be held in Ballycallan Hall on Friday 23rd October from 6pm to 8pm. €5 per child entry. Fancy Dress and plenty of tricks and treats available at our tuck shop so bring your change along as all funds raised are for our school. Little Spooks must be accompanied by an adult. TRACTOR RUN Callan Tractor Run and Vintage Vehicles (cars, trucks, tractors) will take place on Sunday 25th October at 1pm from the Fair Green, Callan in aid of Mount Carmel Nursing Home. Vehicles can gather from 12 noon. Raffle and prizes on the day. This is a family friendly community event. All are welcome. ACTIVE LADIES CLUB Naomh Aodhan Active Ladies meet on Monday evenings from 7pm – 9pm. New members are always welcome. If there is any event or occasion happening in the community and you need some extra help, please contact us as we will always have some people available to help. Contact 086 373 99 83 for further details. LOTTO Results for 12th October. Numbers drawn were 6; 16; 21; 30. There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners were Patrick Hayes, Pat Dunphy and Margaret O’Donoghue. Sellers’ Prizes went to Bill Ryan and James Ryall. Next week’s jackpot will be €5600. RIVER RANGERS HALLOWEEN PARTY River Rangers will hold a Halloween Party on Sunday 25th October in Ryan’s Bar, Kilmanagh. Fancy dress, all are welcome. Prizes for best dressed. Raffle will also be held on the night. Saddle up for a Spooktacular Night of music, fun and fundraising. 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. WINDGAP TULLAHOUGHT RUBY ANNIVERSARY Forty years ago, this weekend on Sunday, 19th October 1986, Windgap travelled to Nowlan Park for the County Junior Hurling Final against Danesfort. Played as the curtain raiser to the County Intermediate Final between Piltown and Conahy Shamrocks, Windgap led at half-time and went on to secure a memorable victory, capturing the Aylward Cup for only the second time in the club’s

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Community & GAA Notes

1986 County Intermediate Champions.

history. Their names remain etched in club folklore as a team that brought great honour and pride to the parish and left a lasting legacy, not only through their achievement on the field, but also through the lifelong commitment many of its players gave to Windgap GAA and the wider community that helped shape the club for future generations. IRISH CLASSES Windgap GAA Club are hosting Irish lessons for adults over six Thursdays from 29th October; from 6:30pm 8:00pm. For further details, contact Shane on 087 6227603 TABLE QUIZ The annual Lingaun Valley Table Quiz returns to Powers of Tullahought on Thursday 29th October. €20 per table of four - all are welcome. BRIDGE RESULTS Winners at the Kilmoganny Bridge Club game on Wednesday, 30th September, were 1st. Stella Tennyson and Grace Landy. 2nd. Margaret O’Shea and Liz McCarthy. 3rd. Noreen Kenneally and Mary Lonergan. MÍLE BUOICHAS Tullahought Ladies Guild are delighted to acknowledge the funding received from Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee (Local Enhancement Programme 2026) for Tullahought Community Centre to provide a mobile island/storage unit for the Community Centre that will be very beneficial for the Ladies Guild Members and also to all the other groups who use the Community Centre for meetings, courses, classes and gatherings. KAROKE NIGHT Windgap GAA Club are holding a Halloween Karaoke fundraising night in Walsh’s Bar on Saturday, 31st October, at 8pm, with a night of music and craic. There will be novel events, and Halloween costumes are encouraged. SCHOOL DRAW A weekly Scoil San Nioclás, Windgap fundraiser school draw is commencing, with all the money raised being used to directly support children’s education. Every entrant in the online draw will also be included in the National Draw, with a top prize of a trip to the Harry Potter Experience, London. The first draw will take place on 22nd October at 8:00 p.m. COFFEE MORNING A coffee morning in aid of Breast cancer will take place on Friday October the 30th in the tearooms in Windgap. LINGAUN VALLEY AGM The best-attended Lingaun Valley Tourism AGM took place in the Cardinal Browne Hall Grangemockler on Thursday. The next meeting is set for Wednesday 4th November BEST WISHES Best wishes are extended to all local communities Ahenny Clashnasmuth, Ballyneale, Callan, Carrick on Suir, Dunnamaggin, Faugheen, Grangemockler, Kells, Kilcash, Kilmoganny, Kilsheelin, Mullinahone, Owning, Piltown, Tullahought and Windgap involved in the SuperValu Tidy Towns competition when the results will be announced on this Friday in Croke Park. COOLAGH CARDS The Coolagh Pattern Committee hosts 25 card games for beginners and improvers every Wednes-

day in Bishop Freeman Hall at 8pm. Four-week run; fee is €25; U16s free. PILATES Mat Pilates for all ages will take place in Coolagh Hall at 8pm on Thursdays, lasting four weeks. The fee is €45. TRACTOR RUN The John Smyth Memorial Tractor Run will take place in Windgap on Saturday, 14th November. SPLIT THE POT Fiona Kennedy was the winner in the Windgap GAA and Camogie Club Split the Pot Draw on Friday evening and received €162.00. KILMACOW KILMACOW HERITAGE The Graveyard Working Group has completed its programme of maintenance on local graveyards for this year. The main concentration since April was on the Lower Street, Ballinamorahan and Dunkitt. The highlight this year was the visit of members of the Dundas Bartolucci family, descendants of Clementina Bartolucci who died in 1867 and was buried in Ballinamorahan. Kilmacow Heritage would like to acknowledge the help received during the year and looks forward to an expanded work-load in 2027. Kilmacow Heritage would like to particularly acknowledge the work of Richard Walsh at Ballinamorahan, the welcome to Kilcronagh House from the Quinlan family at the end of July for Clementina’s descendants and the help and advice from the Heritage Officer of Kilkenny County Council, Regina Fitzpatrick. The Graveyard Group acknowledges receipt of financial assistance from Kilkenny County Council under its Graveyard Grant Scheme ’26. The initial focus of the group’s work in 2027 will be on the graveyards at Ullid and Gaulskill. TABLE QUIZ The next table quiz in the monthly series of table quizzes in the Fox’s Den will be held at 8.00pm on Monday, 2nd November in aid of Kilmacow Camo-

gie & LGFA. The cost per table of four is €20. All support welcomed. KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 1, 10, 20 and 27. There was one Match 3 winner. MUSIC CLASSES Music Generation will host tin whistle classes after school on Tuesdays in Coláiste Cois Siúire, Mooncoin. Contact musicgeneration@kcetb.ie or ring 087 176 5493 for more information. CHAIR AEROBICS Mooncoin Parish Hall will host Chair Aerobics from 1.00pm to 1.45pm on Thursdays. Please call Lisa on 087 655 8716 for more details. BUILT CONSERVATION GRANTS Three built heritage schemes are now open for applications: Built Heritage Investment Scheme which provides support of between €2,500 and €50,000 to assist the repair and conservation of historic buildings and structures. The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th October. Historic Thatch Buildings offers assistance to protect the heritage value of historic thatched buildings, including dwellings and other structures. The closing date for applications is Friday, 30th October. Historic Structures Fund offers grants from €5,000 to €200,000, up to 50% of eligible costs for projects which show a clear community benefit. The closing date for applications is Friday, 27 th November. Please contact the Heritage/Conservation Sections of Kilkenny County Council for more details. MULLINAVAT GYM INDUCTION The next induction in Mullinavat Community Centre will take place at 6.00pm on Monday, 26th October. Please contact Tom at 086 827 3239 to book a place. MULLINAVAT LOTTO The winning numbers in the lotto on Monday, 12th October were 2, 5, 16 and 26. There was no Jackpot

or Match 3 winner. TEMPORARY RELOCATION OF DOCTOR’S PRACTICE Dr. Ronan Cleary’s practice has been relocated to Ferrybank Primary Care Centre for the duration of works at the Health Centre in Mullinavat. The telephone number, 051 511834, will remain unchanged. RUAILE BUAILE The five-piece traditional music group will appear in the Community Centre, Mullinavat as part of the fund-raising initiatives for an astro-pitch on Saturday, 7th November. There will be a full-bar facility. All support (over 18) welcomed. TALK ON THE LEAVING CERTIFICATE The next South Kilkenny Historical Society event, a lecture on ‘100 Years of the (Dreaded) Leaving Cert, takes place in Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church) on Friday October 30th. The speaker will be well known historian Eoin Walsh and it begins at 8pm. Admission is €5 for nonmembers. Everyone living in Ireland today has heard of, if not sat, the dreaded Leaving Certificate. It has recently passed a milestone of 100 years of existence. But how did it come about? And why do we still get nightmares about it as adults? ROUNDERS Mullinavat GAA is trying to gauge the interest locally in setting up GAA Rounders. The initial aim is to introduce a recreational and social rounders programme, aimed at adults, providing an opportunity to get involved in the club in a social manner. Please contact Breda Maddock on 087 969 4420 to express an interest in the idea. TOWN AND VILLAGE RENEWAL Kilkenny County Council is inviting Expressions of Interest in the Town and Village Renewal Scheme ’26. The scheme is designed to revitalise or rural Ireland by focusing on village centre economic and social regeneration. It will prioritise the development of the public realm and green spaces, recreational amenities, enhance streetscapes, refurbishment of community centres and project that bring vacant or derelict buildings back into use. The closing date for Expressions of Interest is Friday, 27th November. NOELEEN’S TRACTOR RUN The run will be held in Glenmore on Sunday, 8th November. Registration (costs €20 per vehicle) will take place from 11.30am and the run will commence at 1.00pm. There will be refreshments and a raffle afterwards in the Glen Bar. Contact 087 413 3814 or 087 793 9708 for more details. All funds raised will be devoted to projects in Glenmore. FERRYBANK FERRYBANK LIBRARY The Library is celebrating Halloween with two funfilled workshops for children aged 7 years and over. The first workshop commences at 3.00pm on Tuesday, 27th October with Halloween Screen Printing, where children will create their own spooky stencil and print a Halloween design onto card or a plain Tshirt. Then, at 11.00am on Thursday, 29th October, children can enjoy a Spooktacular Halloween Crafts Workshop, making festive paper plate wreaths, spooky bunting and other seasonal decorations. Both events are free, but booking is essential. To reserve a place, contact Ferrybank Library on 051 897200 or email ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie. GREENWAY UPDATE A car park facility, which is part of the North Quay

Church in Dunkitt Graveyard where Kilmacow Heritage have been working for the past two months.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Community & GAA Notes project, has been made available by Waterford City and County Council to those using the Greenway. There will be no charge for the moment, but a parking charge may be payable at a later stage. ROAD UPGRADE The detailed design report on the N29 Port Road has been received from the TII and the Part VIII planning process is anticipated soon. NORTH QUAY PROJECT The Further Information requested from Hopcast Ltd on modications to a previous planning permission was received by Waterford City and County Council on 29th September. A decision on the application, following receipt of the further information, is due by the 26th October. PINK ROCK CYCLE LOOP AND AMENITY TRAIL Submissions on the Pink Rock Cycle Loop and Amenity Trail can be made online at https://consult.kilkenny.ie or by post to Tim Butler, Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, Kilkenny by this Friday, 23rd October. FRCDG MEETING The next meeting of Ferrybank Residents Community Development Group will be held in the Hillsfield Centre from 2.00pm to 3.00pm on Wednesday, 28th October. New members are welcome to come along. JOHNSTOWN MRS MARGARET JONES (NEE WATSON) Margaret, Five Docks, Sydney, Australia and formally of Foulkscourt, Johnstown died peacefully recently at Concord Hospital, Sydney. Predeceased by her parents Jack and Peg, her brother Tommy, sister in law Pat, her sister Susie, brother in law Paddy Tone. She will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her brother Billy, sister Mary, her dear friend Breda, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Margarets funeral took place in Australia and a Memorial Mass will be celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church, Johnstown at a later date. OCTOBER OFFERINGS October Offerings for the priests are due now. Thank you. KILKENNY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Kilkenny Bereavement Support provides free one to one listening support to people who have been bereaved. They are looking to recruit volunteers who are willing to commit one to two hours per week at a time to suit themselves. Induction training provided and all four sessions must be attended Saturday. November. 7th 10am to 12 noon, Tuesday November 10th 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday November 17th 7pm to 9pm and Sat. Nov. 28th 10am to 12 noon. Call 0860670566 or email director@kilkennybereavementsupport.com. ST. KIERAN’S HALL HALLOWEEN DISCO On Thursday October 29th from 4pm to 5.30pm a fun filled Halloween Disco for children under 12 years old will be held in St Kieran’s Hall. Donation €5. There will be a Sweet Shop, nail art and facepainting. It is sponsored by Kilkenny CoCo. CONGRATULATIONS TO THE EMERALDS Congratulations to The Emeralds Intermediate Camogie team on their fantastic victory over Mooncoin in the county final. This well-deserved success is a wonderful achievement for the players, management and everyone involved with the club. Their hard work, commitment and determination throughout the season have been rewarded, and they can now look forward to a new challenge as they step up to the Senior ranks for 2027. Best wishes to the team as they prepare for the next chapter in their camogie journey. The whole club can be immensely proud of this memorable achievement! SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers 3,7,13,29, brought no jackpot winner so four match threes were given to Billy Dermody, Anfela Grace, Shay Beehan and Paul Fitzgerald. SPA UNITED AFC Results this week: Junior league division 2 St. Johns 4 Spa 0, U15 boys league division 1 Spa 0 Thomastown 2, U14 girls league division 1A Deen Celtic 6 Spa 4, U14 boys league division 2A Freebooters 2 Spa 3. HALLOWEEN FANCY DRESS FUN IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY There will be plenty of Halloween fun and entertainment in the coming weeks, with fancy dress parties and a special children’s disco planned for the local community. McCarthy’s Bar will host an Adult Halloween Fancy Dress Party on Saturday, October 31st, starting at 10pm. Everyone is invited to dress up for what promises to be a great night of fun, music and entertainment. There will be a prize for the best costume, so get creative and start planning

your Halloween outfit. Music on the night will be provided by DJ Tracey Edwards, ensuring plenty of entertainment for everyone. Earlier that same day, children can enjoy their own Halloween celebrations at the Kids’ Halloween Disco in McCarthy’s Bar from 5pm to 7pm. There will be a prize for the best Halloween costume, along with goodies and lots of games to keep the youngsters entertained. It promises to be a funfilled occasion for children to enjoy the Halloween spirit with friends. Meanwhile, McGuire’s Pub in Galmoy will host a Fancy Dress Party on Saturday, October 24th, from 9pm. There will be prizes for the best-dressed participants, with music provided by Brian and Figs. Admission is €10, and all proceeds from the night will go towards the replacement of the roof on the community hall. It is a great opportunity to enjoy a night out while supporting an important local community project. With costumes, music and plenty of Halloween atmosphere promised at both venues, there is something for everyone to look forward to. THE MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE There is a free SNA course for Level 5 and 6. Free Every Monday and Wednesday morning from 10am to 1pm, spaces are still available and it’s free. The Knitting and Crochet Circle Christmas Fair will take place at The Mill Family Resource Centre on Friday, December 4th, from 11am to 1pm. There will be a wonderful selection of handmade items available to purchase, including beautiful blankets, dolls, teddies and a variety of festive Christmas creations. It promises to be a great opportunity to pick up something special while supporting the talented members of the group. The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to be an important hub for the local community, providing a wide range of services, supports, activities and opportunities for people of all ages. The Centre offers a warm and welcoming place where people can meet others, learn new skills, improve their wellbeing and enjoy a friendly social environment. A Local Training Initiative (LTI) Programme will be starting shortly. The free programme includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable practical skills which can help improve confidence, independence and employment opportunities. A wide range of courses is available through the Centre, including SNA QQI Levels 5 and 6; Childcare and Computing QQI Level 4; Early Learning and Care Certificate and Advanced Certificate QQI Level 5; LTI QQI Level 4; Office Administration and Payroll QQI Level 5; and Basic Computers. Anyone interested in finding out more about these courses, including application details, is encouraged to call into The Mill Family Resource Centre or contact the Centre directly. The popular Youth Club has also returned and takes place every Wednesday evening from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. The club is open to young people aged 10 to 12 years and provides a great opportunity to meet friends, enjoy activities and have some fun in a safe and welcoming environment. Hot news from The Mill Family Resource Centre is that the Thursday Club is being revived and reenergised! The club is looking forward to welcoming back old members while also encouraging new members to come along and join in the fun. A great selection of activities is planned, including art, crafts, chair yoga and music, with, of course, plenty of time to relax and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and a chat. The Thursday Club meets every Thursday afternoon at 2pm at the Mill Centre. It is a great opportunity to get out, meet people, try something new and enjoy a friendly afternoon in good company. Everyone is welcome, and the organisers are particularly looking forward to meeting both new and old members. Simply call into the Centre or contact Sue or Josephine for further information. There are also plenty of bargains to be found on the Centre’s clothes rail, so why not drop in and see what is available? But don’t go on Thursdays, they will make you do chair yoga. For further information on any of the activities, courses or services available at The Mill Family Resource Centre, contact 056 8838466. GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 1pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening. LAY LED LITURGY Lay Led Liturgy with Holy Communion will be held

weekly during Fr Walton’s Sabbatical Glengoole Church every Wednesday at 9.30am followed by Eucharistic Adoration. Gortnahoe Church every Thursday at 9.30am followed by Eucharistic Adoration 400 CLUB DRAW The results for October 400 Club Draw. 1st prize €200, Seamus Morris, Foilacamin, 2nd prize €100, Gortnahoe Community Hall. Other prize winners were Joanne Campion Glynn, Graiguewood, Rose Phelan, Graiguemane, Kathleen and Thomas Maguire, Ballynonty, Fr James Walton PP, Gortnahoe, Mary Harding, Glengoole, Frances Walsh, Thurles, Breda Hickey, Urard and Liam Egan, Coole. Promoters prize winner was Joan Morris. DATE FOR YOUR DIARY The Hall Committee has announced the following events. Halloween special bingo 24th October, Christmas draw in support of the hall will take place on Sunday 20th December and there will a special bingo held on St. Stephen’s Day at 4pm. PILATES WITH RUTH Pilate classes continue in Glengoole Hall every Monday at 6.30pm. €10 pay as you go. To book, message 0872049418, Instagram @pilates_ruth. Bring mat and water. WALK-IN Walk-In Flu and Covid Clinic (for patients over and under 65) on Friday, 23rd October at 2pm in Gortnahoe Health Clinic. GORTNAHOE BINGO A special Halloween bingo will be held this Saturday evening 24th October. TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. Former members would be very welcome to come on the Tuesday night and if you would like to join or find out more information, please contact this number 089 434910. CONAHY HURLING All roads lead to UPMC Nowlan Park this Saturday afternoon at 3.00 p.m. when the Conahy Shamrocks junior hurlers face Graignamanagh in the JJ Kavanagh Premier Junior County Final. Everyone in the locality is encouraged to come in and support the team on this big day for the club. A link to buy tickets will be shared via social media this week. Best of luck to the players and management in winning a fourth junior county title, having previously won in 1976, 2007 and 2020. The minor hurlers ensured that Conahy Shamrocks supporters would have a second county final to look forward to when they had a good win over St. Martin’s in the Kilkenny Vehicle Centre Roinn B county semi-final in Canon Kearns Park. An early goal from Joe Boland set Conahy on their way, and with a second goal soon after from Rory Sherman, they went into half time leading 2-12 to 0-3. The second half was a closer affair, but a second Rory Sherman goal pushed Conahy further into the lead. In the end, they had plenty in reserve, winning by 3-17 to 0-8. Conahy will face either Carrickshock or Young Irelands in the county final, which will likely take place on Sunday, November 1st, with the time and venue yet to be decided. TEAM: Neil Webster, Mounir Zouaoui, Tadgh Hennessy, Bobby Dooley, Finn Sherman, Jack Rhatigan, James Byrne, Rory Rhatigan, Darragh Horgan, Billy Rowe, Patrick Kennedy, Jack Buggy, M.J. Buggy, Joe Boland, Rory Sherman, Padraig Quinn, Brian Phelan, Camryn Kenehan, Brian Tierney, Sam Connellan, Mikey Hurley, Jack Gamble, Ben Byrne, Rory Dunne, Evan Buggy. ASTROTURF PITCH OPENING Conahy Shamrocks GAA and Camogie Club will officially open their new Astroturf Pitch on this Friday, October 23rd. All members, families, friends and supporters are invited to attend. This is a familyfriendly event and a great opportunity for our younger players to be part of a memorable day in the club’s history. GAA CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 6, 10 and 35. There was no winner of the jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Billy Mulhall, Paddy Walsh, Gerry Kelly, John Gleason and John Holland. The promoter prize winners were Larry Bergin, Teresa Dollard and Margaret Buggy. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto. CONAHY NS Conahy National School is now accepting enrolments. For further information, please contact 0838074253 or email colmanconahy@gmail.com. The school will host an Open Evening tonight

(Wednesday, October 21st) from 6.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. All are welcome. PROGRESSIVE 25’S Progressive 25’s resumed on Sunday evening last and will continue each Sunday evening at 8.00 p.m. in the GAA Clubhouse for the coming weeks. All are welcome to attend. NEWMARKET HUGGINSTOWN STONEYFORD ALL SAINTS PASTORAL AREA Parishes - Aghaviller; Ballyhale; Mullinavat. Priests in the Pastoral Area: Sean O’Connor (Ballyhale) Parish Priest of the three Parishes in the Pastoral Area). Telephone 056 776 6696 or 086 389 5911: Email: rsoc1973@gmail.com. Liam Cassin (Hugginstown). Telephone 087 231 2354: Email: liamcassin@ossory.ie. Liam Barron (Mullinavat). Telephone 087 272 2824: Email: mullinavat@ossory.ie. Peter Hoyne (Newmarket - Retired). Telephone 056 776 8678 or 086 373 8492 MASS TIMES Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m. Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil Saturday at 6.30p.m. PRAY FOR Nuala and StJohn Donovan, Lawcus Fields: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 24th. October at 6.30p.m. Maura and Dick Power, Lismatigue: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 24th. October at 8.00p.m. James and Mary Barron, Sheepstown: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 25th. October at 10.00a.m. ROTA (THIRTIETH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tom King. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Foran. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Bernie Grace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Margaret Kenneally Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr. HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY, HUGGINSTOWN House No. 5 is now vacant. Any elderly person who is interested in applying please contact the Secretary, Lily Burke, Croan, Dunamaggan, Co. Kilkenny. Tel. 056 776 8008. for an Application Form. NOVEMBER REMEMBRANCE MASSES Mass for all who have died in our community during the past year will be celebrated on Saturday 7th. November in both Stoneyford and Hugginstown. OCTOBER STATIONS The October Station Envelopes 2026 are available at the Church Porch. Your contributions are for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. Your envelopes can be left into the Collection Boxes at the Churches, or you may donate directly - Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). MISSION SUNDAY 2026: Holy Father’s Message: “May the light of Christian hope illumine every man and woman, as a message of God’s love addressed to all. May the Church bear fruitful witness to this message in every part of the world.” Prayer for Missionaries: Lord our God, loving Father we humbly pray to you for our beloved missionaries, heralds of the Gospel. May our prayers reach their hearts, that they may feel our love, our strength, our faith. May our prayers reach their hearts that they continue with your zeal the mission you entrusted them with. May their presence in their community be a reminder of your presence among us. An extra Collection will be held after all Masses on this weekend for the Missions. LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 12th. October 2026 Numbers: 09; 31; 07; 10. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner. 5 x €30.00. Winners: Gerard Comerford, Mullinbeg; T. J. Mills, “On-Line”. John Cassin, Ballygerdra; Patrick Long, “On-Line”; Tara Gaule, “On-Line” 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Tommy Murphy, Ger Carroll, Claire Cleary. CHURCH SAFEGUARDING If you have a child safeguarding concern or wish to raise a matter from the past you may contact: - Diocesan Designated Liaison Person, Mr. Fintan Fanning, 087 100 0232 email dlp@ossory.ie; Tusla Tel. 059 911 5570 or www.ossory.ie/safeguarding. Parish Safeguarding Representatives: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Sport

Dicksboro make it back-to-back with fifth senior camogie crown Michael Lyng Motors Kilkenny County Senior Camogie Final Dicksboro 1-12; Piltown 0-10

Asha McHardy (D) gets to the ball ahead of Jenni O'Dea (P)

John Power at UPMC Nowlan Park A crucial first-half goal from Orla Hanrick proved decisive as Dicksboro overcame Piltown by five points at UPMC Nowlan Park to secure their fifth Michael Lyng Motors Kilkenny Senior Camogie Championship title. Dicksboro continued their impressive record in Kilkenny senior camogie when they claimed a fifth Michael Lyng Motors county title with a The ball breaks loose five-point victory as both sets of players over Piltown at react UPMC Nowlan Park. On a perfect afternoon for camogie, the city side produced a determined and disciplined performance to overcome a Piltown team that battled hard throughout but ultimately found the excellent Dicksboro defence difficult to penetrate. The decisive moment arrived in the 31st minute when Orla Hanrick found the net, scoring the only goal of a low-scoring final and giving her side a crucial advantage heading into the Dowling, before Prendergast interval. converted another free to edge Dicksboro had previously the city side in front. Piltown won the senior crown in 2019, were enjoying a productive 2021, 2023 and 2025, and this spell and began to put their latest success represented opponents under pressure. another significant Two well-taken frees from achievement for the club. the dependable Kelly Anne Having returned to the top of Doyle added to their tally, the county game last year, they while Aoife Doyle also raised a have now secured back-towhite flag after the Dicksboro back titles for the first time in defence had successfully dealt their history. with a goal threat. For Piltown, the defeat That sequence of scores put represented a second Piltown 0-5 to 0-3 ahead and consecutive final loss, gave them encouragement despite a spirited effort that that they could make a serious threatened to bring them right challenge for the title. Their back into contention during work rate was impressive, the second half. and they were making The opening exchanges were Dicksboro work hard for closely contested, with both every possession. However, teams showing early signs of the closing stages of the the defensive determination first half belonged firmly to that would characterise the the city side. From the 18th afternoon. Piltown’s Kelly minute until the interval, Anne Doyle and Dicksboro’s Dicksboro took control of the Aoife Prendergast opened scoreboard, gradually building their respective accounts momentum and putting their with frees as neither side was opponents under increasing prepared to give much away. pressure. Kelly Anne Doyle then Orla Hanrick began the produced an excellent scoring sequence with a point, individual score for Piltown, before Aoife Prendergast demonstrating her ability added another to bring the to create opportunities sides closer together. Aobha under pressure. Dicksboro O’Gorman then contributed responded through Rachel

Asha McHardy (D) is tackled by Jenni O'Dea (P) as Katie Byrne (D) and Aoife Doyle (P) add their support.

Lorna O'Shea and Jenni O'Dea (P) look to take possession dispite the attention of Asha McHardy and Aobha O'Gorman (D)

a further point as Dicksboro began to make their territorial advantage count. The defining moment of the half arrived in the 31st minute. An Aoife Prendergast effort from a 45 dropped short into the danger area, where Orla Hanrick reacted sharply to finish to the Piltown net from close range. It was a significant breakthrough in a contest where clear goal opportunities had been limited. Hanrick's opportunism gave Dicksboro the cushion they needed and left Piltown facing an uphill task after having enjoyed a promising spell earlier in the half. Half-time: Dicksboro 1-7 Piltown 0-5. Piltown needed a strong start to the second half if they were to get back into the contest, and Kelly Anne Doyle responded with another converted free. Aoife Prendergast answered in similar fashion at the other end, before Tara McGrath added a point from play for Dicksboro. Doyle continued to carry much of the attacking responsibility for Piltown and registered another score to keep her side within

reach. However, Dicksboro remained composed, with their defensive unit continuing to restrict the opportunities available to the south Kilkenny outfit. Rachel Dowling then pointed for the winners, extending their advantage to six points and leaving Piltown with a considerable challenge as the game entered its final quarter. To their credit, Piltown refused to surrender. Aoife Doyle found the target, Kelly Anne Doyle followed with another point, and Ruby Norris added a third consecutive score to produce a timely burst of pressure. Suddenly, the gap had been reduced to three points, with the scoreboard reading 1-10 to 0-10 in the 45th minute. The possibility of a late turnaround was very much alive, and Piltown had given themselves a chance of putting the reigning champions under serious pressure. However, that proved to be their final scoring contribution of the afternoon. Dicksboro's defence tightened its grip, with the players in the rearguard showing excellent discipline and determination to prevent

Piltown from building on their promising spell. At the opposite end, Dicksboro were content to manage their advantage rather than take unnecessary risks. Aoife Prendergast converted a free in the 49th minute to restore some breathing space, and the city side continued to frustrate their opponents as the minutes ticked away. Piltown worked tirelessly in search of a way back, but the openings were increasingly difficult to find. Their key attackers were closely monitored, while Dicksboro's defensive organisation ensured that the threat of a late goal never materialised. Prendergast added a further free in the 63rd minute, providing the final score of the afternoon and confirming Dicksboro's five-point victory. Although the final did not quite reach the heights anticipated on a fine afternoon for camogie, Dicksboro will have few complaints. They demonstrated the composure, defensive strength and clinical finishing required to win championship finals, with Hanrick's first-half goal proving the crucial difference between the sides. Piltown will be disappointed after suffering their second successive final defeat, but they showed enough determination to remain competitive until the closing stages. Ultimately, however, they were unable to find a way past a superbly organised Dicksboro defence. For Dicksboro, the

celebrations were well deserved. A fifth senior crown, their first successful defence of the title, and another impressive performance on the county stage provided the perfect reward for a side that once again demonstrated its ability to deliver when silverware was at stake. SCORERS DICKSBORO: Aoife Prendergast (0-7 frees), Amy Clifford (1-0), Rachel Dowling (0-2), Tara McGrath, Asha McHardy, Orla Hanrick (0-1 each) PILTOWN: Kellyann Doyle (07, 0-5 frees), Aoife Doyle (0-2), Ruby Norris (0-1) TEAMS DICKSBORO: Cara Duggan, Angela Carroll, Tara Clifford (Capt), Katie Byrne, Ciara Phelan, Caoimhe Dowling, Aisling Browne, Aobha O’Gorman, Tara McGrath, Asha McHardy, Jenny Clifford, Rachel Dowling, Aoife Prendergast, Orla Hanrick, Amy Clifford Substitutes: Rose Kelly for Asha McHardy, Emma Hogan for Amy Clifford, PILTOWN: Aoife Norris, Danielle Carroll, Patsy Kenny, Lorraine Long, Karen Duggan, Aoife Landers, Jenni O’Dea, Laura Norris, Lorna O’Shea, Sophie Holden, Kellyann Doyle, Ruby Norris, Aoife Doyle, Katie Power (Capt), Alanna Gallagher. Substitutes: Ellen O’Keeffe for Alanna Gallagher, Alice Talbot for Lorna O’Shea, Referee: Liz Dempsey (Thomastown).

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Sport

Emeralds impressive in Intermediate Camogie Triumph Abbott Intermediate Camogie County Final Emeralds 3-11; Mooncoin 0-11

Emeralds and Mooncoin battle for possession.

John Power at UPMC Nowlan Park Three second-half goals proved decisive as Emeralds were crowned Abbott Intermediate Camogie County Champions following a ninepoint victory over Mooncoin at UPMC Nowlan Park. On a splendid sunny afternoon at Kilkenny GAA headquarters, Emeralds showed the determination, composure and attacking quality required to win on the biggest day of the season. Having led by just a single point at half-time, they raised their game considerably in the second period, with three goals in a devastating ten-minute spell ultimately deciding the destination of the silverware. For Emeralds captain Anne Dalton and vicecaptain Davina Tobin, it was a particularly satisfying afternoon. Both played important roles in guiding their side to victory, with Dalton delivering an outstanding scoring performance and providing valuable leadership to a team that combined experience with youthful enthusiasm. For Mooncoin, however, it was another painful chapter in their recent history in the intermediate final. Saturday's defeat was their fourth consecutive loss in a county final, following previous disappointments against Rower Inistioge in 2023, O'Loughlin Gaels in 2024 and Danesfort in 2025. The opening half was a tight, low-scoring affair, with both teams battling hard for possession and space. Defences were generally on top, and clear scoring opportunities were limited as the sides attempted to establish control. Emeralds settled particularly well, with former county star Anne Dalton proving a reliable source of scores. By the time Mooncoin opened their account in the 15th minute through a Sarah Crowley free, Emeralds had already registered three points, all coming from Dalton frees. The experienced attacker continued to punish Mooncoin's indiscretions, adding two further points by the 18th minute to leave her side comfortably positioned at 0-5 to 0-1. Mooncoin gradually began to find their rhythm, with Niamh and Sarah Crowley working hard to win possession and bring their teammates into

Eve Dunphy (M) breaks with the ball with Emily Kavanagh (E) and Davina Crowley (E) in persuit. Hannah Cooney, Lauren Comerford, Muireann Gannon, and Eimear Quilty (all M) close down Louise Hickey (E).

Louise Hickey (E) tackles Hannah Cooney (M) as Lauren Comerford (M) Muireann Gannon (M) and Eimear Quilty (M) close in.

the game. Their efforts helped reduce the deficit before the interval, leaving Emeralds with a narrow advantage despite having controlled much of the opening exchanges.

Dalton accounted for all six of the winners' first-half scores. However, Mooncoin remained very much in contention and could have been closer had they taken advantage of

a couple of promising goal opportunities. Half-time: Emeralds 0-6 Mooncoin 0-5. Mooncoin made an encouraging start to the second period, with Sarah Crowley pointing from play to draw the teams level. The prospect of another closely fought finish was alive, but Emeralds responded immediately. Emma Dunphy produced a fine individual effort in the 35th minute, bursting strongly through the centre before sending the ball between the posts to restore the Urlingford side's lead. That score proved to be the beginning of a remarkable spell for Emeralds, who suddenly began turning their attacking possession into goals. In the 36th minute, Mooncoin surrendered possession in a dangerous area, allowing Lucy Kavanagh to seize the opportunity. She unleashed a powerful shot that flew into the back of the net, giving Emeralds a significant advantage. Mooncoin responded positively to the setback, refusing to allow their opponents to run away with the contest. Sarah Crowley and Emily Cooney both found the target with well-taken points, reducing the deficit to 1-7 to 0-8 and keeping their side within reach. However, Emeralds were now playing with growing confidence, and their direct attacking approach continued to cause problems. Louise Hickey struck a crucial second goal in the 44th minute, increasing the pressure on Mooncoin. Before their opponents had time to recover, Emeralds delivered another decisive blow. Just two minutes later, Lucy Kavanagh sent a ball

Ruth Ryan (E) and Niamh Crowley (M) in action.

towards the Mooncoin goal, where Roisin Gibbons reacted superbly to gather possession and finish emphatically to the net. Three goals in ten minutes had transformed the final. Emeralds now led by 3-7 to 0-8, leaving Mooncoin with a formidable challenge to get back into the game. To their credit, Mooncoin continued to battle, working hard to create openings and adding points in an effort to halt the Emeralds momentum. Sarah Crowley registered another score, but the Urlingford side remained firmly in control. With the game moving into its closing stages, Emeralds demonstrated that their attacking threat extended beyond their goal scorers. Louise Hickey added two points, while Leyla Ahearne and Anne Dalton also found the target in a four-point unanswered sequence that stretched the advantage to eight points. At 3-11 to 0-9 in the 57th minute, the destination of the championship was effectively settled. Mooncoin continued to show admirable spirit, with Keelin Hennebrey adding a point before Sarah Crowley converted a late free. Those scores brought the final tally to 3-11 to 0-11, confirming a deserved nine-point victory for Emeralds. The celebrations reflected

the importance of the achievement for the Urlingford club. They had delivered when it mattered most, producing a powerful second-half performance that showcased their scoring ability, work rate and collective determination. Captain Anne Dalton was central to the success, combining accurate freetaking with the leadership expected of an experienced player. The contributions of Lucy Kavanagh, Louise Hickey and Roisin Gibbons in front of goal proved equally significant. Emeralds now have the opportunity to test themselves at senior level in 2027. Their performance at Nowlan Park suggested they possess the ability and confidence to compete in the higher grade, although the step up will bring fresh challenges. For Mooncoin, the disappointment of another final defeat will take time to overcome. Nevertheless, they showed enough throughout the afternoon to suggest they will remain competitive when the 2027 campaign begins. For now, however, the day belonged to Emeralds, whose clinical finishing and commanding second-half display brought the Abbott Intermediate Championship title back to Urlingford in memorable fashion. SCORERS EMERALDS: Anne Dalton (0-6, 0-4 frees), Lucy Kavanagh (1-2), Louise Higgins (1-0), Roisin Gibbons (1-0), Emma Dunphy, Louise Hickey, Leyla Ahearne (0-1 each). MOONCOIN; Sarah Crowley (0-7, 0-4 frees), Aine Aylward, Niamh Crowley, Emily Cooney, Keelin Hennebrey (0-1 each). TEAMS EMERALDS: Siobhan O’Hara, Alanna Russell, Niamh Leahy, Saoirse Bourke, Eimear Leahy, Davina Tobin, Ruth Ryan, Emily Kavanagh, Emma Dunphy, Aoibhe Bourke, Anne Dalton (captain), Emma Kenny, Louise Hickey, Lucy Kavanagh, Roisin Ahern. Substitutes: -Leyla Ahearne for Emma Kenny. MOONCOIN: Ellen Crowley, Marianne Walsh, Mairead Corcoran, Emily Crowley, Eimear Quilty, Muireann Gannon, Molly Quinn, Eve Dunphy, Hannah Cooney, Sarah Crowley, Lauren Comerford, Niamh Crowley) (captain), Aine Aylward, Emily Cooney, Roisin Crowley. Substitutes: Ella Brennan for Marianne Walsh, Eimear Fleming for Emily Crowley, Sorcha Kinsella for Roisin Crowley, Laura D Dunphy for Aine Aylward, Referee: Eoin Hayes.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters - Review

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Michael Lyng Motors Hyundai Intermediate Hurling Championship Final James Stephens 1-16 Rower-Inistioge 0-16 James Stephens achieved their goal; a return to the top tier of Kilkenny hurling after edging out a brave and spirited Rower-Inistioge side in a gripping and at times, tense Intermediate Championship Final at UPMC Nowlan Park. The Village claimed a three-point victory, 1-16 to 0-16, and in doing so completed a memorable league and championship double while erasing the hurt of last year’s final defeat to Danesfort. The result secured promotion back to senior ranks after a season in which they consistently looked like one of the strongest teams on Noreside. Played before a large and vocal crowd, the Hanrahan Cup decider had all the ingredients of a cracking county final. There was intensity, quality hurling from quality stickmen, momentum swings, and, ultimately, a decisive goal that separated two evenly matched teams. Rower-Inistioge entered the contest full of confidence following an impressive championship campaign and showed no signs of stage fright against their more illustrious opponents in the opening quarter. Their work rate around the middle third was exceptional early on as they settled quicker than their Larchfieldbased opponents. The South Kilkenny side moved into a twopoint lead after fourteen minutes, with their forwards finding space and putting James Stephens under pressure. Throughout those opening exchanges, the Rower looked sharp and energetic, threatening to upset the bookmaker’s predictions. However, championship-winning teams are often defined by their ability to respond when under pressure, and James Stephens did exactly that. Trailing 0-5 to 0-3, The Village suddenly found another gear. Ed Lauhoff sparked the revival with an excellent long-range point before captain Cian Kenny raised the spirits of the James Stephens

Village on the UP! James Stephens defeat The Rower to secure a return to the top table Cian Kenny Raises the Hanrahan Cup

Eoin O Brien gets His block in on Ed Mc Dermot

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Hurling matters - Review On the UP!! James Stephens With Cup

Pj Mackey gets his pass away as Cian Kenny moves in to tackle

supporters when he split the posts from a difficult angle, a classy score from a seriously classy stickman. Those scores shifted the momentum decisively. The crucial turning point of the first half arrived when Tadhg O’Dwyer converted an 18th-minute free to put James Stephens ahead for the first time. That score was the catalyst for the Intermediate league champions to thrive. Led by the influential Kenny, the industrious Luke Scanlon and the effective McDermott, Eoin Larkin’s outfit dominated the next ten minutes. Points from McDermott, O’Dwyer and Sean Deely followed as they reeled off seven unanswered scores in a devastating spell that transformed the scoreboard from a two-point deficit into a five-point advantage at 0-10 to 0-5. It was arguably the defining passage of a fantastic game. After controlling much of the opening quarter, Rower-Inistioge suddenly found themselves chasing

the contest. To their credit, they stopped the oppositions purple patch before the break when Kevin Murphy landed an important point, reducing the arrears slightly. Nevertheless, James Stephens entered half-time in a strong position, leading 0-10 to 0-6 and looking increasingly confident. The second half began much as the first ended. James Stephens were first out of the blocks and extended their lead through the accuracy of the vastly experienced Tadhg O’Dwyer, who’s free taking remained a major weapon throughout the afternoon. Two early scores pushed the margin wider and increased the pressure on Thomas Gleeson’s charges. A huge moment then arrived when James Stephens threatened to find the net. Stephen Manogue broke through and got his shot beyond

goalkeeper Patrick Lyng, only for full-back Shane Ryan to produce a superb piece of defending too clear the ball from the danger zone. Had the sliotar crossed the line at that stage, the contest might have been over much earlier. Instead, Ryan’s intervention gave Rower-Inistioge renewed hope and energy. Inspired by that escape, the Rower gradually worked their way back into contention. Eoin O’Brien, Jim Ryan and George Murphy began to exert greater influence around midfield and in the half-forward line, winning vital possession and driving their side forward. Their determination was reflected on the scoreboard as Ned Spellman chipped in with a point; Patrick Lyng showed his striking ability with an impressive long-range free from his own half, and Jack Roche

added another valuable score. The gap was suddenly cut, and the James Stephens lead looked far less secure; we now had a one-score game on our hands. As the final quarter approached, tension gripped Nowlan Park. Every score was cheered wildly from the stands, and every turnover greeted with huge roars from supporters of both sides. RowerInistioge sensed that an equaliser might be within reach, while James Stephens knew that a single decisive moment could secure the title. That moment finally arrived with just three minutes remaining. Substitute Willie Spencer, introduced to provide fresh energy in attack, became the hero of the day. After a sustained James Stephens move created pressure inside the Rower defence, Spencer reacted sharply and fired to the net from close range. The goal sent the James Stephens supporters into celebration and proved to be the knockout blow their opponents couldn’t recover from. It was a cruel blow for RowerInistioge, who had battled tirelessly throughout and remained within striking distance for much of the game. Yet championship finals are often settled by fine margins, and Willie Spencer’s strike was the one moment of pure ruthlessness that separated the teams. Even after conceding the goal, The Rower refused to surrender. They continued to attack and searched desperately for scores that might bring them back into contention. Their resilience was admirable, but James Stephens remained composed to ensure there would be no repeat of last year’s final loss. Eoin Larkin’s defence stood firm in the closing stages, continually repelling attacks and ensuring there would be no dramatic late comeback. When the final whistle sounded, relief and joy were evident throughout the James Stephens camp. After the heartbreak of losing the 2025 decider, they had finally completed their mission. Among the standout performers were captain Cian Kenny, whose leadership inspired those around him, Tadhg O’Dwyer with his vital scoring contribution from placed balls, and Willie Spencer, whose late goal secured his place in club folklore. Ed Lauhoff, Sean Deely, and Luke Scanlon also played significant roles during key periods of the contest, Ed McDermott’s 3 points reminded everyone of his quality. For Rower-Inistioge, there was disappointment but also plenty of pride. Players such as Shane Ryan, George Murphy, Jim Ryan, Eoin O’Brien and Patrick Lyng all contributed strongly to a courageous effort that pushed the eventual champions all the way. In Eoghan Lyng, they had possibly the most effective player at intermediate level in 2026. In the end, James Stephens’ decisive seven-point first-half scoring burst and Willie Spencer’s late goal proved the defining crucial moments. It may not have been their most dominant display of the season, but winning was the aim. The Village are back among Kilkenny’s senior hurling elite, and they will be keen to push on in their upcoming Leinster campaign.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Hurlng matters - Preview

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Tullaroan & Shamrocks ready for Tom Walsh Cup decider

St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship Final 2026 Shamrocks Ballyhale vs Tullaroan Senior County Final day on Noreside will always be a wonderful occasion, but to have the top two in the competitions roll of honour battle it out this year, will make the 2026 St Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling Championship Final extra special. The competition’s first ever winners versus the most successful team, and current holders certainly make the mouth water. Tullaroan and Shamrocks Ballyhale will take to the pitch at Kilkenny headquarters on Sunday with everything on the line, and no doubt both sides will be prepared to die with their boots on to claim the coveted Tom Walsh Cup. For Tullaroan Sunday will see them contest their first senior decider since 1994, when they defeated Dicksboro in a low scoring affair, captain Derek Gaffney top scoring for The Sash with 4 points. Their very first crown, claimed in 1887 against big rivals Mooncoin, saw an even lower scoreline, 1-1 to 0-4 in a time when a goal outweighed any number of points. Meanwhile, Shamrocks Ballyhale returned to the summit last season under the guidance of Henry Shefflin, having had a ‘baron’ couple of seasons watching O’Loughlin Gaels and Thomastown triumph. We’ll start with the defending champions. Death, taxes and Shamrocks claiming County titles, for a long period this appeared to be the ‘status quo’ on Noreside, but as mentioned, others emerged to lift the Tom Walsh Cup in ‘23 and ‘24. When Henry took the reins for a second time, the mission was simple, get the men from Páirc na Seamróg winning games and challenging, and that’s exactly what the new Kilkenny boss achieved. When the club season got underway this year, new boss Mark Aylward had the services of the Shamrocks intercounty stars much earlier than anticipated. This surprise has clearly benefited the Holden Plant Rental’s sponsored side as they came out of the blocks quickly when the league got underway. Slipping up in the last group game was the only blot on the copybook, but that much-changed side that took to the field against Danesfort, knew the league final berth had been secured. The league final saw Shamrocks

Brian Cody has impressed for Shamrocks

The Final countdown! face off against Thomastown, and this was a real battle with both sides looking to bag the first major silverware of the season, and it would be Aylward’s charges that won out by the bare minimum. Switching to knock-out mode hurling saw a South Kilkenny derby clash as Glenmore took on Ballyhale in the last of the quarterfinal encounters. This game saw Adrian Mullen make great strides on his return from injury, the flamehaired stickman registering six lovely points, all from play as his side emerged 5-point winners over Seamie Dollard’s men, who gave the Shamrocks a real competitive outing. Having successfully navigated the stiff challenge of the Pairc na Ratha side, the reward was a last four clash with old foes Thomastown. Both teams went into this, aware of the stakes and the large crowd in attendance at UPMC Nowlan Park. A game that promised much turned into a stop-start affair, with the free-taking of Robbie Donnelly and TJ Reid to the fore. Noel Doherty’s

charges kept going and when former Cats skipper, John Donnelly struck for a goal in the 57th minute, the odds were heavily stacked in the favour of the 2024 champions, but before their supporters had finished celebrating, Niall Shortall had fired past Diarmuid Galway to nudge the Shamrocks a point ahead. With the game entering additional time, the sides were level, thanks to a Robbie Donnelly free, but Aylward’s outfit pushed on and scores from TJ and shortall saw the holders progress to the final once more. With Dean Mason still a massive presence between the sticks, the defence has been anchored brilliantly by the evergreen Joey Holden. His knowhow has really helped the likes of Killian’s Corcoran and Ryan push on and become stable fixtures in the Shamrocks rearguard. Darragh Corcoran looks really comfortable at centre back, with Evan Shefflin and Killian Corcoran in recent games flanking him. As

mentioned throughout the season, there are scores in this line, and this is crucial to the way Mark Aylward’s team wants to play. Everything being equal, Ronan Corcoran and Richie Reid will man the engine room, and this duo can help provide a good platform for the ‘stardust’ ahead of them. Last season, Eoin Kenneally was really impressive for the side, getting through mountains of work and notching scores, but his absence has been masked by the performances of Brian Cody. Brian has been instrumental in his sides’ run to the final, and his manager and supporters will hope he shines once more on Sunday. In an ideal world, Brian will line out in the front six and have the likes of Eoin Cody, Adrian

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Hurling matters - Preview Mossy knows he will be tightly marked

Mullen’s and Walsh’s will clash

Shane Walsh will be on placed ball duty

Mullen and TJ for company. We know that TJ is vital in keeping the scoreboard ticking over, while the quality of Eoin and Adrian speaks for itself. When goals have been scored, Niall Shortall appears to have had the monopoly on the green flag raising, and he has taken his game to a higher level this season. This has taken the pressure off the latest player to join the senior ranks, Jake Mullen. Following in the footsteps of Paddy, Darren and Adrian, the youngest of Clan Mullen looks to be a real talent and playing with little fear. Tullaroan have been a breath of fresh air this season. With Dave Mulcahy at the helm, the 20-times winners have played some lovely hurling and provided plenty of entertainment along the way. The Sash recorded 3 wins and 2 defeats in their group games but looked dangerous in every outing. The mixed back in the league set them up for a round 1 meeting with the dangerous Mullinavat. The Vegas Boys battled hard, and there were only 5 points between the sides at the long whistle. A quarter final clash with O’Loughlin Gaels was the reward, and this match up was keenly contested. Mossy got an early goal, and Shane Walsh was going well also, while brother Padraig was keeping things tight at the back. The Sash pushed on and won out by 4 points to advance to the last four. Bennettsbridge were up next for Mulcahy’s men. The Sash bossed the opening period, and looked to be in no danger, but Brian Lannon’s side kept plugging away, and the direct ball into Liam Blanchfield was proving fruitful. The likes of Padraig and Tommy Walsh needed to stand up in defence and they duly did. Gearoid Dunne’s goal proved crucial as Tullaroan secured a first final berth in 32 years. Like Sunday’s opponents, the

goalkeeper is playing out of his skin. Niall Holland is formidable presence who is hard to beat, but the netminder has an extra string to his bow, as he is an excellent long range free taker that is prone to getting on the scoresheet. In front of Holland you will find Tomas Dunne, patrolling the edge of the square and it will be interesting to see who the number 3 picks up on Sunday. The half back line oozes class and quality. Padraig Walsh at six, flanked by another Walsh, Tommy and Bill Walton. I’d say we could see Padraig battling with TJ and Tommy shadowing Eoin Cody, God, this could be good. The middle third duo of Martin Walsh and Bill Gaffney will not be found wanting and will be more than up for the physical battle with their counterparts and as usual winning this sector can make all the difference. We don’t need to do a ‘deep dive’ on Mossy Keoghan’s importance to The Sash. The talented forward does so much for the team, his movement and threat, creating space for others to roam and do damage. One of his half-forward colleagues and been shining all season and leading Tj Reid will meet Tomas Dunne on Sunday

the way in the scoring stakes, step forward Dylan Simpson. Throw the returning Shane Walsh and bustling Gearoid Dunne into an inside forward line, and you can see that Mark Aylward will need to have done his homework in getting his matchups right for Sunday’s battle. You get the sense that the final is the perfect stage for attacking stars to shine. Mossy Keoghan and Gearoid Dunne on one side, Eoin Cody and Adrian Mullen on the other. The placed ball duel between TJ Reid and Shane Walsh will as ever by key, and The Sash have Dylan Simpson and Niall Holland waiting in the wings should they be needed on frees. Darragh Corcoran and Padraig Walsh dictating the tempo from the’6’ position. Messrs. Aylward and Mulcahy will have their sides prepped for the decider, and both will be confident of emerging as winners. Neither of these teams will be thinking about a provincial campaign at this stage, but we can be certain that whichever of these two talented teams claims victory on Sunday, Noreside will have a big say on the destination of the Leinster title.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

PLANNING NOTICE – RED III DEVELOPMENT I, Brendan Brennan, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for retention permission for development at Sandfordscourt House, Sandfordscourt, Co. Kilkenny. The development consists of the retention of 32 ground-mounted solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, arranged in two rows of 16 panels on one continuous aluminium support frame, south-facing at an inclination of 45 degrees, with a total installed generating capacity of approximately 14.56 kWp and overall dimensions of approximately 18.6 metres in length, 2.1 metres in depth and 3.3 metres in maximum height, together with all associated supporting structures and ancillary works. The installation is located within an existing disused sand equestrian arena. The development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413). The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Kilkenny County Council, Planning Department, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (ADPS, 085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my client James Jimmy Murphy . Permission to construct (i) milking parlour with plant room, Dairy, office, storage, flow channel, crush, meal bin, water tank and collecting yard, slatted tank (ii) walled silage slab and all associated site works at Knockeenbaun, Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL NOTICE OF FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS. I, Paul Nolan, in relation to a Notice of Further Information Request received on my Permission to retain; (A) Partially constructed dormer side extension to existing dwelling. (B) Boundary wall and vehicular entrance. Including all associated site works. At Ballyroberts, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny. Planning reference 26/60242. Hereby give notice that Significant Further Information/Revised Plans (including; permission to decommission existing septic tank/percolation area, and to install a new treatment system/percolation area) have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and are 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. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Mark Kelly, www.mkelly.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Significant Further Information/Revised Plans I, Kieran White intend to submit Significant Further Information to Kilkenny County Council subsequent to Planning Application Ref. Number 26/60458, to upgrade of existing septic tank with a new waste water treatment system and soil polishing filter consisting of a Tricel Novo P6 pumped and 90m2 of a low pressure pumped soil polishing filter and all associated site development works at Lacken, Rathmoyle, Co. Kilkenny R95 V213. 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 2 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.

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ray and Lorraine McCarthy hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for a change of use from attic space to residential accommodation at McCarthy’s Bar, Chapel Street, Johnstown, Co. Kilkenny. The development will include the provision of a new external metal staircase to the side of the building with new external door to the proposed first floor studio apartment and all associated site development and ancillary works. The site is located within the Johnstown Architectural Conservation Area. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, 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. www.briandunloparchitects.com

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Nigel Pratt and Elizabeth Lawlor-Pratt, intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for retention planning permission for the construction of 2 No. sheds, 1 No. garden room, and a wall & gate to the side of the existing dwelling house along with all associated site & development works at Stangs, Gowran, Co. Kilkenny, R95A297. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Brian Dunlop Architects Ltd. www.bdarchitects.ie

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ray and Lorraine McCarthy, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for conversion of vacant first floor space to residential accommodation comprising of 3 studio apartments and all associated site development and ancillary works at McCarthy’s Bar, Main Street, Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. www.briandunloparchitects.com

TO PUBLISH A PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street | Telephone: 056 777 1463 / 086 239 5370 | Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

MC CORMACK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND MONTH’S MIND

MCGUIRE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND MONTH’S MIND

DONOVAN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND 1ST ANNIVERSARY

Majella Mc Cormack Cypress Court Loughboy, Kilkenny

Mary (Nee Fanning) Larchfield, Kilkenny (Formerly Waterford City)

Nuala (nee Gibbons) Lawcus Fields, Stoneyford, Co. Kilkenny.

Nicky (Partner) and the Mc Cormack Family of the late Majella Mc Cormack would like to thank everyone for the many expressions of sympathy on Majella’s recent passing.

The family of the late Mary McGuire would like to thank everyone for the many expressions of sympathy on Mary’s passing. To those that visited her during her illness, and those that attended the Rosary and Burial.

On Nuala’s first anniversary, 21st October, her children St. John, Louise and Brian, her grandson Oscar, her sisters, brothers and family, would like to sincerely thank everyone for your expressions of sympathy and support since Nuala’s death. Your presence, cards, messages and your support are greatly appreciated by all of us.

To those who helped Majella during her illness, and those that attended the Rosary, Funeral Mass and Burial. Sincere thanks and gratitude to the wonderful staff of The Suir Ward, The Palliative Care Team at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny and the Community Care Team who cared for and comforted Majella during her illness. A special thanks to Dr. Sarah Lochrin, Consultant Medical Oncologist and the team at the Oncology Department, St. Vincents Hospital, Dublin who also cared for and supported Majella during her illness. To Fr. William Dalton, Callan, Fr. Kieran O’Connor and Fr. Felix Bonkaanaie Kuulare, St. Fiacre’s who celebrated Majella’s Funeral mass. To Martina Burke for the beautiful singing at St. Fiacre’s Church and to organist Helen Hughes for the beautiful music. Thanks to Molloy’s Funeral Directors, Callan and to Johnsons Funeral Home, Kilkenny. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions. Majella’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Fiacre’s Church, Loughboy at 12 Noon on Sunday, 1 November 2026. She is gone You can shed tears that she is gone Or you can smile because she has lived You can close your eyes and pray that she will come back Or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left Your heart can be empty because you can’t see her Or you can be full of the love that you shared You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday You can remember her and only that she is gone Or you can cherish her memory and let it live on You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back Or you can do what she would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on. By David Harkins

Sincere thanks to Cormac and his team at Castle Gardens Surgery, and to the Palliative and Community Care team. A special thanks to Hazel from The Irish Cancer Society for her wonderful care during Mary’s final days. To Fr. Willie Purcell and Monsignor Dan Carroll who celebrated Mary’s Funeral mass. To St. Fiacre’s 6.15pm choir for the beautiful singing and to organist James Rice. Thanks to Johnston’s Funeral Home and to Langton House Hotel. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for all your intentions. Mary’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Fiacre’s Church at 6.15pm on Saturday 24th October.

Special thanks to Flor and to Brendan, to the medical team in St. James’ Hospital, the Carlow/Kilkenny Homecare team, and the staff of Cois Nore who helped to support and take care of Nuala during her illness. To Fr Liam Cassin and to Johnston’s Funeral Directors for your sensitive support during this difficult time. A very special thank you to her many beloved friends. All of your love, care, support and encouragement helped Nuala to continue to live her life full of joy and positivity right up until her final days. Nuala’s First Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St Brendan’s Church, Stoneyford at 6.30pm on Saturday 24th October.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

Classifieds

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026

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Classifieds

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 23rd October 2026